AN - Hello everyone! I'm sorry I haven't updated in a while and happy belated holidays to all of you! Paul, I think you're going to like how I write Lanius. He is truly awful ;)
In terms of numbers for you, velociraptor... The Legion runs anywhere between 1000-1500 Legionaries (from what I cant tell at certain times) and likely total around 2500-3000 including support personnel ie slaves and such.
As things come to an end here, I hope you'll be satisfied with the ending, Mal. I'm really thinking I finally have it figured out. Thanks for the thoughtful words!
Enjoy!
September 2277 – March 2278
What a perfect summer day for travelling, the Trader thought as he gathered his wares from around his smouldering fire and placed them gingerly on Hugo, his favourite of all his pack Brahmin. Despite being midday, the temperature was more than tolerable, especially with a cool wind blowing in from the northeast. With any luck, they'd make The Fort by dusk. This time, the Trader had more than just his usual commodities, he had information, information he knew Caesar would want to know.
While staying in Mesquite, one of the smaller neutral caravan stops, he'd come across a man. This man was clearly not trying to get anyone's attention and he passed through like an ominous shadow, careful not to stop and talk to anyone. Most of the other traders and merchants seemed to ignore the stranger and his odd behaviour but not Dale Barton, no, there was something about this man that grabbed Dale's attention.
The first thing that captivated Dale was how the man moved, it was slow, pained, and deliberate. He had a profound limp, and he carried his right arm that he did his best to keep tucked under the ragged cloak. The next thing Dale saw was the man's skin and how badly burned it was. The cloak covered most but not all, and Dale was able to see the burned and bubbled flesh. Finally, Dale locked eyes with the man for just a second. No words were spoken but Dale knew those eyes, he'd never seen eyes like them anywhere else during all his travels. They were the lightest shade of blue and when they looked at you, it was like you were instantly struck with paralysis.
The man carried on and within seconds he had vanished as quickly as he had appeared without a trace of where he'd come from or where he was going. Most wouldn't have given this strange encounter another thought but Dale knew those eyes, he'd seen them many times before when he'd traded with the Legionaries at The Fort. The Legate, Joshua Graham had never spoken to him but once in a while, they'd cross paths, never speaking any words but always offering a respectful meeting of the eyes.
By now, everyone had heard what had become of Caesar's Legate; slathered in pitch and hurled into the Grand Canyon. The Malpais Legate had been written off for dead, after all, who the hell could survive something so horrendous, but when Dale saw that gait, that flesh and those eyes, he knew the truth. Joshua Graham was alive, and Caesar would want to know.
Reed stood on the edge of the training yard watching as his veterans put some recruits through the gears. He trusted his Decanii to get these new Legionaries ready for whatever was to come and thus, he never saw the need to micromanage their training the same way Athos had for his own.
"They seem to be coming along," Aramis's voice called out from behind and Reed turned to see her approaching before they stood side by side. Aramis leaned her chest over the rail of the yard and rested her weight. It had been months since Joshua's death, but Aramis seemed to treat every day like it was the day after and he wondered if his friend would ever regain even a semblance of her former self. He hadn't been there when Desert Dog died but he imagined this was very similar. She'd stayed in New Canaan all that time getting professional help whether she wanted it or not. When she did finally return, she still carried the mental wounds, but they'd begun to heal and with the support she got from her friends and especially Joshua, she was able to recover, and even love someone again. This time would be different. Joshua was gone, Athos was gone, Seekra was gone… she only had him and despite his best efforts to comfort her, he knew he was failing because she never seemed to improve.
"I saw Antony this morning working all the dogs. They've gotten so big. He said it will be likely they'll be ready to go raiding by the fall," Reed said trying to keep the conversation light. After their defeat at the Hoover Dam, all the dogs who'd belonged to the Centurions who'd been killed went back to Antony and Lupo to finish their training. "Maybe you'd offer up some insight as to who you think would best deserve the dogs."
"Sure," Aramis grumbled. "It's time we get you out," she then said without even changing her tone. Clearly, this was what she had intended to talk about all along.
"I'm not leaving you here alone," Reed said poignantly.
"This was always the plan, and now it's time to act. I have an idea," she said in a firm tone. "So shut up and listen."
Reed was slightly taken aback but he didn't protest.
"Chief Hanlon has taken up residence at Camp Golf with his Rangers. That's not too far from here. Now that your men are showing some proficiencies, it's time they start getting some mileage in the wastes. Send them on simple raids and go along with them for added supervision. Caesar will be pleased that you're taking such a vested interest in the progress of your men. Eventually, you'll run into those Rangers. Your men will be killed, and you'll be captured. From there, I suspect you'll be reunited with your wife in New Canaan by the time the year is up," she told him.
Reed was at a loss for words. Had she come up with this all by herself or had this been concocted by her NCR support chain? Regardless, he didn't care, in fact, he was rather excited about it. After a minute of thinking it over, Reed found his tongue.
"Chief Hanlon is on board with this?" he asked.
"He will be," Aramis concluded. "Removing you from Caesar's side is a benefit for the NCR as well. You're the most senior and experienced out of all the Centurions. Your apparent death will be a crushing blow to the Legion and leave Caesar without your advice and expertise."
Reed had to admit, she was right about that.
"So, in the meantime, I just keep training my men and attend their raids?" Reed verified.
"Exactly," Aramis confirmed.
"I can do that."
"Good. I expected as much."
"Only if you come with me," Reed said as he leaned over the rail next to her.
"You know I can't," she said.
"Once we're all out, what's the point of staying here?"
"That is the point and the deal I made. Getting you all out while I stay behind, at least until the NCR are through with me or Caesar has me thrown into the Grand Canyon too."
"Then I'm staying too."
"Don't be stupid," Aramis said in a harsh tone. "Your wife and child need you more than I do. Wanting to go to them isn't selfish, Reed, it's responsible."
Reed swallowed hard and pondered her words knowing she was right about everything.
"All right."
Much had changed in The Fort since Dale had last been here. There was a surprising number of new faces as was to be expected since everyone knew Caesar had lost so many men at the Hoover Dam. Generally, Dale conducted his business with the Centurions, in particular, Argo, and Shaka but he'd heard that they'd been killed in the battle, so he wondered who would be doing his business with now.
He got his answer in the form of a shadow that had somehow appeared right behind him without him even noticing. How the mammoth had just snuck up on him like that was not only alarming but also seemed impossible. Nonetheless, Dale Barton was looking up at the metal-clad monster he guessed was Lanius, one of Caesar's newest Centurions. Perhaps as equally terrifying as the man was the massive broadsword-like weapons he kept sheathed on his back. Surely the only one large enough to yield such a blade was the man who now stood before him.
Hugo the pack Brahmin was suddenly startled by the sheer presence of this man, and the animal jolted back in alarm and let out a shrill and fearful moo. Dale had to grip the tether tightly to prevent the large animal from fleeing. Once Hugo was calm, Dale was able to address the man.
"I have some information I think Caesar would want to know," Dale said trying to sound bold.
"Your words, no matter how useful you may think them to be are not worthy to be heard by the mighty Caesar. You will speak them to me, and if I think they carry value, I will relay them to my master," Lanius said in a deep and menacing voice.
Hugo let out a loud moo. Dale may have protested if this were Argo, maybe even Shaka but Lanius was something else entirely and there was no way Dale was going to piss off the brute by insisting he speaks to Caesar personally.
"It's about the Legate… Joshua," Dale started before Lanius cut him off.
"The Burned Man is dead."
"I don't think so," Dale said and took a step back for good measure. "I saw him… in Mesquite."
"What makes you think it was him?" Lanius asked with arms folded.
"One tends to notice a charred man roaming the wastes. Plus, his eyes. I know those eyes," Dale stated.
"Many men wander the wastes with burns and to identify him based on that and just his eyes is hardly grounds to make such claims," Lanius hissed.
"I'm telling you; it was him," Dale tried, and he realized he sounded almost desperate to be believed.
"Why would you care if he was?" Lanius asked in a calm voice. "What do you seek in return for this… information."
Dale had come ready with a response if anyone had asked this question.
"I don't expect a man as great as Caesar to pay favours to people like me. To ask for one would be insulting and reckless. The Legion has been good to me. I just want to return the goodwill, nothing more," Dale answered. Of course, he had an agenda, but he wasn't going to ask for it outright. If his information was good, and he knew it was, Caesar would reward him in his own way, he knew it.
"Who else have you told?" Lanius asked.
"No one, promise," he said. With his face obscured by the crude metal mask, it was impossible to tell what Lanius was thinking but the silence was even more unsettling.
"I will tell Caesar what you have told me," Lanius concluded, and Dale Barton knew this was as good a response as any.
"Then our business is concluded, unless there is more you wish to purchase or discuss," Dale asked.
"There is," Lanius said flatly. "The howitzer that stands at the top of Fortification Hill. I am told you acquired it for Caesar some time ago."
"That's right. I got it when I was travelling through Yuma. Took six Brahmin just to drag the thing here," Dale said.
"It doesn't work," Lanius said, his voice sounding harsh.
"I told Caesar's man that from the start, but Centurion Shaka insisted that Caesar wanted it anyway," Dale defended.
"What if we wanted to repair it?" Lanius questioned.
Dale scratched his head for a moment before saying,
"Well, I took a good look at it before heaving it all the way over here. All the components were still operable. The only thing missing was the firing pin. That's what they did to decommission. I imagine replacing the pin would make it operable again, and likely a good clean."
"Where would we find a firing pin?" Lanius asked.
"Those are not easy to come by," Dale answered honestly but then he thought of one option.
"You could try the Boomers. I hear they are sitting on a goldmine of prewar explosive ordinances and much more than that. Though getting to them is suicide. I've never been successful myself. I've heard those artillery shells being lobbed and I steer clear," Dale informed.
Lanius raised his hand and seemed to scratch his chin beneath the mask.
"I will pass on your words," Lanius said, and he turned abruptly. Once more Hugo spooked and jumped awkwardly, tugging at the lead in Dale's hand. Before Dale could get his Brahmin under control, Lanius had unsheathed the massive blade and with one downward swipe, brought the sword down on Hugo's neck, severing head from body.
Dale's mouth fell open as Hugo's blood splattered both he and Lanius. Hugo fell to the ground in an instant. Lanius merely sheathed the sword and stepped over the lifeless body of Dale's pack Brahmin without uttering a single word. Dale looked down and saw Hugo's lifeless eyes staring up at him and his long purple tongue hung out of his mouth. The leather leash that Dale used to lead his animal around hung limp, still connected to the halter around Hugo's severed head.
Caesar paced about the War Tent struggling to comprehend the news Lanius had brought him yesterday morning. Joshua Graham had lived? Impossible. No one could survive being set on fire and tossed into the Grand Canyon, but the more Caesar thought about it, the more plausible it seemed, after all, this was Joshua Graham, the man who died a hundred times. The Trader, Dale Barton, had no reason to lie about this information and likely knew if he was caught in the lie, Caesar would have him crucified.
Joshua Graham was alive. Dale Barton had told Lanius that he'd been spotted in Mesquite. That was along the I-15. If Joshua was seen on that road, there was no doubt in Caesar's mind that he was making his way to his home in New Canaan. Fortunately, Caesar had an idea.
"You asked for me?" came the deep voice of the man Caesar had requested.
Caesar turned and saw Ulysses standing at the entrance of the tent, waiting for permission to enter.
"Come in," Caesar ordered, and Ulysses stepped in. "I need you to confirm something for me," he went on. "I'm hearing rumours that there is a man, a man I believe to be dead, only according to these rumours, he's very much alive," Caesar said and noted that Ulysses looked perplexed, even with half his face hidden behind a respirator.
"Who is this man?" Ulysses asked.
"That doesn't matter. What does matter is how we are going to deal with him and the people who are protecting him from me," Caesar said bitterly. "I want you to seek out the White Legs tribe. As it stands, they are the enemy of my enemy and that makes them our ally," Caesar ordered.
"The White Legs?" Ulysses questioned. "They've been fighting with the New Canaanites for decades. Is that the enemy you're referring to? Are you suggesting I help them destroy New Canaan?"
"That's exactly what I'm telling you to do," Caesar instructed.
Ulysses appeared unsettled by this command and then he asked the question,
"Is Joshua Graham alive?"
Caesar felt the skin on his face burn hot and his lips parted into a snarl.
"Joshua Graham is dead… but the Burned Man may be seeking asylum in New Canaan," Caesar said sourly.
"I am not questioning your orders… but I would think you'd want your best Frumentarius for this mission. Surely Aramis is better suited for…"
"You won't tell Aramis a damn thing!" Caesar snapped, angry that Ulysses would even think to question his decisions. "Everyone knows Aramis was close with," but Caesar didn't even finish this sentence. "You will make contact with the White Legs, you will assist them in destroying New Canaan and you will do this entirely on your own, am I clear?"
Ulysses crossed his fist over his chest in an instant and bowed his head in respect.
"As you command," he uttered.
"You leave today," Caesar ordered. "Now get out."
Dex looked at the small note and read it several times over before ripping it up and throwing it in the trash.
"What does it say?" Cleo asked as she sat behind her desk.
Dex let out a heavy sigh and answered,
"Time for the last one."
"What does that mean?"
"It means our friend at The Fort wants our help to get out the last of her friends."
"The Centurion?"
"That's the one."
"Cause the last one we took in isn't a massive pain in our asses," she said with a coy smirk.
"I won't argue that," Dex agreed.
"So, what now?"
"We'll have to meet. Come up with a plan I guess… did you want to come this time?"
Cleo looked a bit surprised, but she smiled.
"You know I do!" she said enthusiastically. "I can be ready to go in ten minutes," she added as she stood up from behind her desk. Dex appreciated her zeal. Maybe Cleo would be able to improve Aramis's tepid mood.
Within the hour they left Camp McCarran and travelled east to the Grub N' Gulp. When they arrived, Fitz, one of the owners handed Dex another note. He said a 'nice young lady' had given it to him to give to Dex.
Dex took the note and read it carefully.
"What's it say?" Cleo asked.
"She wants to meet at the Mountain Shadows Campground," Dex said as he folded the note and stuffed it away.
"That's not too far," Cleo responded, and they carried on towards the old campground.
XXX
When they arrived, Aramis was sitting by a small campfire next to an old rusted-out truck. She glanced up when they must have come into her view.
"We got your notes," Dex said when they were close.
Aramis didn't bother to stand up, nor did she carry any expression other than triviality, even at the sight of Cleo. Cleo on the other hand wasn't about to let Aramis's standoffish demeanour push her away and she came at Aramis with arms open and a warm and caring smile. Before Aramis could even protest, Cleo wrapped her arms around the other woman and held her tight.
"How are you doing?" Cleo asked.
"I'm fine," Aramis answered evenly.
"Bullshit you're fine," Cleo accused, never letting up on her hug. "Dex told me what happened. How can you be fine? Really? You know it's okay not to be fine," Cleo assured her, and Dex was surprised when Aramis wrapped her own arms around Cleo. Those two just seemed to get each other, he thought.
"It's good to see you," Aramis said, and Dex heard the slightest warmth in her tone.
"Likewise," Cleo replied, and she broke off their hug. "Now, what can we do to help your friend?"
Dex was a little surprised by her boldness and they all took a seat around the small fire Aramis had started.
"I have an idea, but for it to work, I'll need Hanlon's help," Aramis began.
Getting Hanlon to help with assisting Legion Centurions wasn't going to be easy but Dex didn't interrupt. Aramis went on.
"Over the last couple of months, I've ensured Reed was joining his men on fairly easy raids around the area," Aramis started.
"Yes, I believe we lost an entire squad just last week to one of his Contuberniums," Dex interrupted, unable to hold it in.
"Well, you're about to get your revenge," Aramis muttered. "Caesar has his eye on a piece of real estate southeast of The Fort. It looks as though he'll be moving forward with its development for a fairly large support camp. Caesar will likely send men to secure it and Reed will be one of them. If Hanlon and his Rangers can be ready, they will have the opportunity to take out quite a few Legionaries. Obviously, Reed will be the only survivor. The only issue will be making Caesar believe Reed died alongside his men," Aramis said.
Dex listened to her plan carefully. It was a good plan, and she was right, it gave the NCR a lot of opportunity to deal another blow to the Legion. They'd be removing a Centurion and executing a great number of Legionaries. This wouldn't be too hard of a sell to Hanlon and the Rangers.
"I think we can work with that plan," Dex said. "When were you hoping to make this happen?"
"Within the month. Ideally, the Rangers should be in position as soon as possible. You'll need to make it clear to Hanlon what he's to look out for. He has to be sure it's Reed and his men, not someone else. They can't attack anyone else otherwise Caesar won't risk sending Reed. Everyone knows Reed is likely to be the next Legate."
"Reed is to be the next Legate?" Cleo asked.
"Most likely. Nothing has been confirmed but it makes sense. He's been Caesar's trusted confident almost as much as…" Aramis cut herself off. "As the Legate before him was," she finished a moment later and Dex saw how she strained to keep her face composed.
"What if Reed isn't sent?" Cleo questioned.
"Then we figure out another plan, but this is what I have to work with right now," Aramis said.
That was a valid point, but Dex was more concerned with another aspect of the plan.
"Taking out the entire protective detail of one Centurion is a lot of bodies. You're all right with sending these men to their deaths?" he asked, and he saw Aramis's eyes narrow ever so slightly like she was annoyed he'd even asked the question.
"Things have changed. Before I would call those men my brothers… but most of those men are dead and these new faces, I barely know them and I don't owe a single one a damn thing," she answered without even the slightest waver.
Her words chilled Dex and for the first time since he'd met Aramis, he was a little bit afraid of her. She'd always been formidable, even passionate about her work and he respected her for that, but seeing her like this, devoid of a purpose beyond this singular task was disarming. Dex wanted to offer her something to look forward to when this was all over, but he knew his chain of command wouldn't support pulling her out and while Dex was in the business of making false promises, that one just seemed cruel.
"It will probably take me a day or two to get word back to you about Hanlon's decision in all of this," Dex told her.
"I figured," Aramis muttered. "I doubt Caesar will make any moves before then." There was an awkward silence that grew between them all for a split second before Aramis broke it off. "Well, I guess that's it then. I'm going to head back."
"It will be dark within the hour," Cleo said rather abruptly. "It will be harder to spot both Trooper and Ranger patrols in the area."
Dex shot her a quizzical glance but Cleo either didn't see or pretended not to.
"I've been wandering these parts for several years now, I know how to make my way," Aramis deflected.
"Might not be a bad idea for all of us to hide out here till morning," Cleo went on. "I know our patrol route doesn't include coming up this way, do any of yours?"
"Not that I know of," Aramis mumbled but it wasn't entirely clear what she really thought of the idea of staying the night.
"Then it's settled. I'll take that tetanus shot waiting to happen over there," Cleo said with a smile as she gestured to the derelict camper van.
Dex raised a brow as he glanced around. All that was left was the rusted old truck and a pale-yellow car with its roof caved in. God damn it Cleo… so that was her game.
"I'm fine right here," Aramis said before Dex could even offer her the truck to be chivalrous. Dex saw the smile vanish instantly from Cleo's face.
"Why don't I make us something to eat," he offered instead wondering if giving Aramis and Cleo a bit of private time to chat would be beneficial, after all, Cleo was far better at the human handling aspect of the job than he was. Neither of them protested as he strode off to start looking under rocks for small reptiles or rodents, they could cook up that night. He was gone for an hour and the sky had gone dark by the time he returned. He could hear their voices and saw their illuminated figures by the small fire, and he was pleased to see they were both smiling as they sat beside one another.
"Catch anything?" Cleo asked when she saw him.
"Just a few small lizards," he said though honestly, he hadn't been trying that hard. He coiled the near dozen reptiles on a stick and rested them close to the fire to cook while he sat down across from the two women. Things suddenly became very quiet, and Dex wondered if he had interrupted their conversation.
"Aramis was telling me what it was like when she was a child in the Legion," Cleo spoke up. "Have you heard all these stories?"
"Some I think," Dex answered honestly.
"Unbelievable what the kids go through," Cleo said poignantly.
"It wasn't all bad," Aramis said trying to defend it all, maybe more so for peace of mind.
"She also told me about when she broke your nose," Cleo said with a coy smirk.
"It wasn't broken," Dex grumbled, checking the lizards to be sure they weren't burning.
"Looks like it broke," Cleo teased, and Dex rolled his eyes.
"Aramis was the reason we caught McKnickle," he quickly changed the subject.
"That psychopath who was assaulting all those women?" Cleo exclaimed.
"That was more Miyla," Aramis muttered under her breath.
"Who's Miyla?" Cleo asked and Dex saw Aramis's face screw up in the light of the fire. Cleo must have seen it too because she quickly followed up her question with, "Sorry, we don't need to talk about it."
"She was my friend," Aramis answered, her eyes fixated on the fire and Dex saw how pained she looked but then he saw the trace of a smirk. "She was actually my wife," Aramis added and then she even let out a chuckle.
"Your wife?!" Cleo just about screamed.
"It was all part of my cover. Miyla was captured and given to me as kind of a project by my brother. It wasn't the perfect start to any friendship but over time we came to rely on one another and that became somewhat of a dependency. Had she been a man, she'd have been one of the best Legionaries hands down… fearless, crass, funny… loyal to a fault," Aramis went on. "I miss her."
"I'm so sorry," Cleo said as she put an arm around Aramis.
"You remind me of her," Aramis said, and Dex couldn't help but feel the warmth of the moment and it had nothing to do with the fire. He knew how this story ended and he wanted Aramis to end with a happy thought, so he quickly plucked up the lizards and handed them out. Everyone was quiet as they ate and once they were done, Cleo stood up.
"I'm going to call it a night. Don't stay up too late you two," she said and gave Dex a wink that was not intended for Aramis to see.
"Night," he and Aramis said in unison.
For a few seconds, they sat silently, both staring into the flames that were starting to die down and become nothing more than smouldering embers.
"You should probably get some sleep too," Aramis said and were words surprised Dex a bit. Why such a push to make him go away? Was she unable to confide in him the same way she could with Cleo? He didn't want to push anything on her, but he also didn't want her to believe that he wasn't capable of being more than a former fling.
"Aramis, I know you're going through things that I won't even pretend like I could ever comprehend," he started but Aramis kind of raised her hand slightly, in a clear sign that he should stop talking.
"That's not true," she said in a tone that Dex could only assume was sincerity. "I think you understand exactly what I'm going through," she concluded, and soon Dex was looking at an emotion he couldn't quite place. Was it empathy? Anger? It was impossible to tell but he still opted to move next to her, put his arm over her shoulder and pull her closer to him if only to reassure her. He was glad that she didn't try to pull away and surprised when she nuzzled his shoulder with her face.
Neither of them said anything else for the remainder of the night. They sat in silence, watching the embers smoulder until they felt overwhelming exhaustion and lay next to each other, remaining close not just to the coals but to each other for warmth. When Dex awoke in the morning, he stretched out his arm expecting to feel her nearby, but he felt nothing but a soft depression in the sand where she'd once lay. His eyes jolted open and quickly scanned the area, but she wasn't there. The only trace of her was the footprints leading away from the fire, away from the camp, and back into the desert.
News from Dex arrived three days after they discussed the plan at the Mountain Shadows Campground. She was able to decode the message and knew by its context that it meant Hanlon was agreeable to the plan. Now all she had to do was ensure Reed and his men were sent to where the Rangers would be waiting to ambush them. In order to remain inconspicuous, she had to be as far removed from this decision as possible, and fortunately, Caesar made this call entirely on his own. The land to the southeast of The Fort was to be fortified so that it would allow a great number of Legionaries to be housed. The focus of this land would be for training since The Fort, while heavily fortified was just too small and ill-equipped to allow the extensive restoration the Legion required.
The following night, Reed and two Contuberniums would leave The Fort and make their way to this newly acquired land. Once there, they would get to work strengthening its defences and establishing supply chains that would ensure rapid protection. From there, Reed would be joined by Wendigo and Lanius. Time was critical. Hanlon and the Rangers would have to strike Reed and his men well before they could adequately defend themselves. If too much time passed, there was a chance the Legionaries would be too formidable and once Lanius and Wendigo arrived, there would be no chance at all.
Everyone, Caesar included believed the risk was minimal and there was no reason to suspect otherwise. Land to the southeast was already under Legion control so the chances of running into any danger were unlikely. Any opposition they did encounter would simply be considered unlucky and that's exactly how this would all have to play out.
The night Reed was expected to depart, Aramis paid him a visit in his tent.
"Are you ready?" she asked when he called for her to enter.
"No," he said brazenly. "I still don't feel right about leaving you here," careful to keep his voice soft like a whisper.
"That doubt will vanish the moment you're with your wife," Aramis said with a forced but convincing smile. Admittedly if not selfishly she didn't want him to go either but she would have never openly shared this. Reed's place was in New Canaan with his wife and children. If there was someone in the Legion who deserved this, it was him. Suddenly Reed wrapped his arms around her and pulled her in tight.
"I won't rest until I know you're as far away from this hell as I am. Don't be doing anything stupid now, you hear? I'll know if you do and I will come straight back and drag you out myself if I must," he warned. Aramis squeezed him tightly not wanting ever to let him go. To her, Reed was just as much her brother as Athos and their bond had never been shaken. She dug her fingers into the fabric of his tunic and buried her face into the nape of his neck. There was always something so uniquely different about Reed. He never acted like the usual Legionary, never spoke like one, never carried his missions like one and at this moment, he didn't even smell like one. Reed had always been too good for the Legion, and too good for Caesar. Aramis knew she was doing the right thing by getting him to kind people and safety. "Promise me you'll get out the moment you can," he asked her.
"I'll try," she said, mustering as much truth as she could.
"I'm serious, Aramis," he said as he grasped her by the shoulders and looked her straight in the eye. "I don't care where you go or who you go with, just get out of here while you can."
"The moment I'm able to and I know it's safe, I'll send word and tell you where I am," she said though it hurt knowing she may break that promise, but... for him, she'd honestly try.
They held each other once more for what they both knew would never be long enough before they broke apart.
"I'll follow along with things as best I can. If anything goes wrong, I'll intervene," she assured him.
"Just be careful and I promise to do the same," he said.
It was time for him to go. She needed to let him go. This is what all her work had led up to and she had to be able to see it through. She walked him out of his tent and instantly composed herself so as not to draw suspicions from the men.
"See you in a few weeks," she said rather casually when he joined his men and the two of them clasped hands the way they always did in professional solidarity.
"Keep well, Commander," he told her before he began to march with his men. Before he disappeared through the gate, he took one last look over his shoulder and caught her staring back at him. It was a long and silent farewell before the darkness swallowed him up and he was gone.
The newly designated land for the next phase of The Fort provided adequate cover but also a viewpoint of Hoover Dam. With adequate reinforcement, it would prove to be another vital stronghold should Caesar attempt to take the dam again, but none of that mattered anymore. Reed marched in the middle of the small advance party choosing not to engage in idle chat with the men he was condemning to death. Even as he looked at their faces, he felt little connection with them. The battle at the dam had claimed so many of Reed's good men, men he knew well. These new Legionaries were barely fit to wear Legionary armour. They'd been rushed through so quickly that he wondered if any of them would actually adhere to Legion doctrine should the situation present itself.
They set up camp once they arrived and immediately started on the task of building up the defences surrounding the area. Reed ordered a picket then quietly and aimlessly began pacing the land wondering if and when Hanlon and his Rangers would strike. That answer came promptly at sundown when the first crack of rifle fire echoed off the rocks.
"We're under attack!" someone yelled and suddenly the entire advance party was frantically seeking weapons and firing in all directions like the undisciplined horde that they were. Going through the motions, Reed barked out orders, trying to gather the men so that they put up some competent resistance.
"Protect the Centurion!" one would yell.
"For Caesar!" came another shout.
Bodies were falling all around him and for the first time since he'd been indoctrinated, Reed didn't care for a single one of them. This was the first of many steps he needed to take to get back to his wife and child and nothing was going to make him question that goal.
Reed had to admit, he was impressed by the ability of the Rangers to decimate his men before he even saw the glint of a scope. It was true that at long range, a Ranger was superior but had Reed intended to counter, it wouldn't have been difficult to muster his men to a place of cover, wait for the Rangers to close the gap and return the brutality, but Reed wasn't intending to fight back, and his men were too new to know that his lack of leadership was intentional. Had these men been experienced, they would have known their Centurion was playing recklessly and likely saw through the scheme.
Soon, the only men left were those wielding fire axes and broad knives, but the rifle fire ceased. Figures appeared on the nearby dunes growing bigger as they came closer.
"Centurion!" one of his men called out and Reed looked to the young prime with fake concern. "I will fight to the very end!" the man said and at that moment, Reed admired his devotion however misguided it was.
"We won't give them the satisfaction of slaying us," Reed said and suddenly all his men were looking at him. "We are men of Caesar. Men of the Legion. We are not cowards and the NCR won't take us alive."
There was silence for just a second before that very same Prime stepped forward and kneeled before his Centurion.
"By your hand, I would be honoured," the man said as he lay his knife at his feet and canted his head down. Reed swallowed but surprisingly he found it easy to unsheathe his trench knife, lean down and press the blade to the man's throat. With a quick flick, the knife sliced through the skin with minimal effort and blood painted the sand and Reed's feet. One by one the remaining men slit their throats or requested Reed do it for them until only he and another recruit remained.
Reed turned to the young man who appeared no older than twenty and perhaps younger as he had yet to grow facial hair.
"Are you afraid of death?" Reed asked in a solemn voice. The recruit was pale and looked quite terrified but he was clearly trying his best not to appear so by failing to meet Reed's direct gaze. "Do you want to know when it's coming?" Reed asked.
The Recruit only shook his head.
"You served well. For that…" Reed quickly slashed the boy's neck and watched as the boy's eyes went wide and he cupped at the gaping wound. "You have my respect."
It was done. The twenty men he brought with him, his sacrifices lay dead on the ground all around him and Reed didn't feel an ounce of remorse, which surprised him. He'd never undervalued a man's life but clearly, something had changed within him. As the Rangers surrounded him, Reed wondered if they would honour the deal. For some time no one spoke until finally, a man stepped forward.
"Centurion Reed," the man said.
"Chief Hanlon I presume?" Reed replied.
The Ranger nodded his head twice before slinging his rifle over his shoulder and tossing a bag down at Reed's feet.
"You'll need to change. Put your armour in that bag when you're done. Let's get you out of here," Hanlon ordered, and Reed did what he was told but he questioned one of the Rangers when he saw the man pick up the dead body of one of the Legionaries and throw the dead weight over his shoulder. "It's part of the plan," Hanlon said cryptically and with nothing left to discuss, they began the march to Camp Golf leaving the bodies of Reed's men for the geckos and the crows.
XXX
It was over. There was absolutely no going back now. His life in the Legion was behind him and that both thrilled and terrified Reed. Camp Golf was somewhat underwhelming when he first entered and saw rows upon rows of modular tents that reminded him a little too much of The Fort. Hanlon led him and the group through the tent city to a large white building that was surprisingly well-preserved.
In its prime, it was likely a jewel in this foreboding landscape but now its white plaster walls were stained with dirt and grime from years of neglect… and a nuclear apocalypse. There were still remnants of trees and shrubs, but nothing was alive. It stood three stories tall on a concrete plateau that raised it above the world like a derelict shrine. Reed thought it did well to pay homage to a time when the world was a far better and more picturesque place.
"Here we are," he announced as he swung the large wooden doors of the House Resort and Country Club, and everyone poured into the main lobby. At this point, many of the Rangers began removing their heavy armour and dispersing to their respective quarters. Only a couple remained including Hanlon and the man who carried the dead Legionary the entire way back.
"Forgive me if I don't trust a Centurion walking unaccompanied among us. From here on out, anywhere you go, anything you do will be supervised by at least two of my men who will take shifts monitoring everything you do here and reporting all of your patterns down to how many times you touch your dick," Hanlon said in a manner that came more off as a warning than a talk. "I've notified Major Dexterra that you've arrived without incident. I imagine he'll be joining us shortly with the next phase of this… whatever this is."
Reed didn't mind the verbal show of authority. Had the roles been reversed, he was certain he'd be acting in the exact same manner.
"What is your plan with him?" Reed asked, gesturing with his hand to the dead Legionary crumpled on the floor.
"I thought we'd adopt a Legion tactic," Hanlon said casually as two Rangers began undressing the dead man then when he was completely naked, they started to dress him in Reed's Centurion armour. Reed half expected this but how they were going to display it was still a question. He got his answer when he was led to the very top of the resort building and they exited a metal door that brought them to the roof. There, a long rope was waiting, coiled in a pile by the ledge of the building. The Rangers tied a noose around the Legionary's neck and without pause, hurled his body over the edge so it dangled limply for all to see.
Effective, Reed thought. From here, Legion Scouts would certainly see the exhibition but without getting close, they'd never be able to confirm if it was him or not. The armour and expectation would be convincing enough, and he doubted anyone back at The Fort would question his demise.
"Will this work?" Hanlon asked as he peered over the edge and the hanging man.
"I don't doubt it," Reed answered.
They returned inside and Reed was shown to his quarters. As promised, two burly Rangers remained with him, silently watching, judging his every action. When Reed lay on the bed, he was surprised by how tired he instantly felt and realized it had been nearly twenty-four hours since he'd slept. He took off the Ranger armour and lay on top of the covers in nothing more than his boxers.
"How did you lose your eye?" one of the Rangers asked out of nowhere.
Reed looked over at him but wore no expression. He was about to answer when he thought about how he'd lost his eye. It had been a betrayal. In Reed's early years in the Legion, his Centurion, Thoros had collaborated with the enemy to betray his men and flee the Legion. Reed had just been caught up in it all. Reed recalled the moment like it was just days ago and he remembered how angry and betrayed he felt. At the time he'd hated Thoros and for years he wondered how the man could have done what he did to his brothers, but now it all made sense because Reed had just done the exact same thing to his own. Years had passed since Reed thought back to that night when the flammable liquid jars were hurled into the ranks, burning and cutting flesh – his flesh. It had all been brutal but, in the end, Thoros and Sipher had failed to accomplish the task of escaping.
Reed couldn't help but feel ashamed that he'd been so quick to hate Sipher and Thoros for what they had done. He was only glad that he'd managed to ensure all his men were dead so that none of them could go on living with the very same hate and betrayal he'd felt for years following the incident. Reed knew exactly what his actions had been. They'd been selfish but, in the Legion, only the strong survived and for Reed, this decision was all about survival.
"Training mishap," Reed lied. He knew it wouldn't generate enough interest to draw any follow-up questions and he was right. The room fell silent again and soon Reed found himself fast asleep.
XXX
Reed didn't know how long he'd been asleep when he was jostled awake by someone nudging his shoulder. His eyes opened quickly, and he was looking up at a stranger's deep brown eyes that were bearing down on him from a face that was nothing but an expressionless canvas.
"Centurion," the man said in a deep voice. "I'm Major Tanis Dexterra. We should talk."
Reed sat up, swung his legs over the side of the bed and reached for the casual clothes he left on the chair next to him. He felt vulnerable being in such a state and getting dressed with the man looming so close.
"Follow me," the Major ordered, and Reed followed him down the wide hallways to a rather plain-looking meeting room with one table in the centre and chairs scattered around it. The Major took a seat and Reed did the same. A moment later they were joined by Chief Hanlon who took his place directly across from Reed. "First off, I want you to know that I'm quite the admirer of your work in the Legion," the Major started, and this caught Reed by surprise a little. "From all my reports, accounts and information gathering through various channels, I've learned a lot about you in my time with the NCR Intel Group, all of which was confirmed by our mutual colleague, Aramis."
"Maybe you needed to inflate Athos's ego but there's no need for it with me. I may have played the part of a loyal Centurion, but I was disillusioned from the start. I know what a monster Caesar is, and I know the Legion is nothing short of a plague, so why don't you ask me what you want to ask me, and I'll answer everything to the best of my ability," Reed directed.
This seemed to surprise the Major slightly as his brows raised ever so slightly, and he and the Ranger Chief exchanged a quick glance.
"Alright," the Major said.
For the next six hours, Reed was grilled about everything to do with the Legion. They were brought sandwiches and water while they poured over information. Some of it was likely to confirm what they already knew but Reed and tons of information that was clearly new and exciting for them from outpost locations to future development and expansion. What was clearly alarming for the NCR men to hear was that Caesar was already well underway in repairing the damage from the battle at the Hoover Dam. The Legion had bolstered their numbers and now Caesar was ensuring the men would be ready for another major offensive, at least that's how Reed put it.
"Do you know when he will attack?" the Chief asked. Reed did not, and he expressed this honestly.
"When will I be able to go to my wife?" Reed asked wondering how much more they would expect from him.
"It will be a bit more time. There's a procedure that must be followed," the Major explained. "You're a high-value asset and while we appreciate your candour today, we believe there's a lot more to be learned from you. We need to ensure that the risk we take with getting you to New Canaan is worth the investment."
This seemed fair and Reed expected as much. As much as he wanted to see his wife and child again, he knew he had to go along with this game before that could ever happen. They continued going through reports, various documents and interviews until Reed's legs started to ache from sitting for so long. Everything up to this point had been very professional and straightforward. He looked out the grimy window as the sun began to lower and he realized it was nearing dusk and he longed to get some air.
The Major seemed to read his mind because in the very next moment, he said,
"We've been at it all day. Why don't we take a break? We can get something to eat in the mess tent."
This made Reed perk right up and he stood up enthusiastically.
"I need to make an appearance with my men. I'll join you later," Chief Hanlon said and he disappeared out of the room.
As Reed and the Major left the conference room, two Rangers appeared from down the hallway but with a wave, the Major dismissed them. Reed and the Major walked side by side, Reed being led of course and the Major struck up a casual conversation.
"Does it feel like you're free?" the Major asked.
"I don't think free is the word I would use to describe it. I actually don't know how to describe it," Reed answered.
"You said you were disillusioned from the start. If that was the case, why did you stick it out all these years?" the Major pressed.
"Probably for the same reasons Athos and Aramis would have told you. We had each other to protect at the very start and as more time went on, that inner circle grew and soon I was invested in the well-being of people I would have done anything for. As I said, I knew what Caesar was and I knew what we were doing was evil but if he told me to burn the world to save my family, I would have," Reed answered.
"I admire that. Many of us believe a Centurion such as yourself believes that Caesar is a god and that he is to be worshipped and followed without thought or question," the Major pointed out.
"Some are as you say, but there are some, like me, who see him for the man he is and played the game while we still had something worth keeping safe on the inside. Caesar may be a tyrant, but he is brilliant, and he seeks out other brilliance around him to advise him… at least he did. Ever since the dam, he's narrowed his trust on a very select few and even with them, he seems to want to have his hand in everything. I see there being much less autonomy in the future," Reed suggested.
"You think he's weaker for it?" Dex asked.
Reed pondered this question for a moment before answering.
"No, I think it makes him more dangerous, especially for the NCR. The Legion may have appeared more like a pillaging horde, but the men valued each other. Now, it's become every man for himself, so long as that man serves Caesar with all-out devotion," Reed answered.
They entered the mess which was busy given the time of day. Reed scanned the group of NCR with silent reproach as they piled mounds of food onto their plates. No one bothered to look up from their meals and conversation to pay him and the Major any notice. Reed accepted a plate and put a modest meal on it before sitting down with the Major at their own table.
"Do they know who or what I am?" Reed asked.
"Only the Rangers who have the appropriate security clearance," Dex answered.
"And you trust them?" Reed went on.
"I don't trust anyone; experience has taught me that. When I was being trained as an intelligence officer, we were told by our instructors that people are transparent with their emotions especially when they have something to hide. They wear their guilt like a mask… but experience has taught me that's not true. The guilty can hide their guilt and the innocent can appear guilty. It's my job to figure out the truth from the liars, the trustworthy from the fake, but honestly, it's a craps shoot," Dex said, leaning back in his chair and playing with his food with the end of his fork.
"Do you think I'm lying?" Reed probed.
"That's something I've had to dissect many times over, but the facts support your legitimacy," Dex answered vaguely.
"Can I ask how you and Aramis started working together?" Reed pressed.
"Is this a subject that will only upset you?" Dex asked.
"Maybe, but one could infer that no matter what she did, the outcome led to what was always intended for most of us – getting out," Reed defended.
Dex nodded before answering.
"Initially we met in New Reno during one of my investigations. We didn't warm up to one another straight away in fact, some would argue she broke my nose," Dex began, and Reed saw the trace of a smile. "It would be years before our paths crossed again in New Canaan shortly after the death of Desert Dog."
"You know about him?" Reed interjected.
"I'm not really sure what I know about him," Dex answered. "Years of investigation lead me to believe he was a ghost who roamed the wastes conducting Caesar's less than prestigious tasks. He was given that very nickname actually - the Desert Ghost by the NCR. It would be years before we learned his true name and what he actually was. Anyways, you asked if I knew him. The short answer is no. All my information came from reports and then what Aramis told me about him, which was never very much."
"He… like all of us… wore many faces," Reed said.
"That's what I've learned too," Dex answered. "So, in New Canaan, we encountered one another again."
"Did you know who she was then?" Reed asked abruptly trying to put a timeline to this.
"Not even the slightest. I knew she was involved with the Legion but that was only suspicion," Dex said. "It wasn't until she came to Shady Sands and tried to assassinate me did I finally realize what and who she really was."
"That's when she was captured. I remember that," Reed said.
"Yeah. It was at that point I was able to force her compliance with NCR directives and agendas."
"That long, huh?"
"It's… been a while," Dex affirmed.
Reed sat silently for a moment wondering why Aramis had never told him for so long what was really going on and he wasn't even sure he'd get the chance to ask her.
"And Athos… he's good? Seekra too?" Reed asked and he was pleased when he saw Dex really smile now.
"They are," Dex started. "He still has a long way to go with his recovery, but Seekra is with him and last I heard he's even warming up to some of the others in the rehab centre."
"Really?!" Reed questioned.
"From my understanding, it did not come easily," Dex added.
Reed let out a chuckle.
"Honestly, I expected you to be similar," Dex said as he leaned back slightly. "But you and Athos appear to be entirely different."
"Athos is a bit more… intense," Reed said with a smirk. "His first answer to everything was always something physically violent. I didn't have that kind of brawn, and this didn't help either," he said, gesturing to his missing eye.
"I look forward to more conversations like this," Dex said as he checked his watch. "But it's getting late, and I need to send up my report. I'll have you escorted back to your room from here if you're done?"
Reed looked down at his half-eaten meal and realized he wasn't intending to finish. With a nod, they parted ways and Reed was given back to his security detail and led to his room.
XXX
On his last day at Camp Golf, Reed thanked the Rangers, including Chief Hanlon and Major Dexterra. He may not have seen all the good in the NCR that they saw, but he certainly was thankful for giving him a chance at a new life. Chief Hanlon insisted on accompanying Reed to his extraction point where he'd be linking up with his next handler to get him the rest of the way to New Canaan. For security reasons, Reed was never told who this was until they reached the outskirts of Zion and Reed saw a familiar form emerge from one of the caves.
Reed had never gotten to know Hardtack too well but Aramis spoke very highly of the man and Reed knew that the Commander of the Speculatores had always been loyal to Desert Dog and in his memory, Aramis too. Reed and Hardtack embraced in a manner that was keen to men of the Legion who respected one another. They clasped hands and looked each other in the eye before patting one another on the back.
"Centurion," Hardtack said in respect. Given the circumstances, it felt strange to be called a Centurion in such a manner but Reed appreciated it nonetheless.
At Chief Hanlon's insistence, Reed introduced the two men and it was like two brutal enemies were truly seeing each other for the very first time and the peace between them was awkward. They spoke for a few minutes before Hardtack insisted they start the journey for New Canaan. They'd be taking difficult terrain so as not to be spotted by any possible Legion Scouts in the area.
Chief Hanlon shook Reed's hand and wished him well. It was friendly enough and was handed off to Hardtack with no bitterness.
The journey to New Canaan took nearly two weeks on account of the difficult route but Reed enjoyed the company of Hardtack and the Speculatores. At night when the campfires were lit they would share stories of the former days of the Legion and despite the loss and brutality suffered, each story always had a positive connotation.
When they approached the guarded gate of New Canaan, Reed was surprised to be met by a rather burly-looking man who Reed gathered to by Ty, a former member of the NCR whom he'd been told much about through Aramis and Dex. Ty welcomed Reed and informed him that Hardtack had sent word long ago that Reed would be arriving, but it had been kept a secret from everyone else just in case things didn't happen the way they'd all planned.
Reed enjoyed the idle chat but he was growing antsy with anticipation knowing his wife was just beyond these walls. Finally, Ty led him inside and towards a building that resembled a small white church with a modest steeple and bell hanging within. Reed read the words 'school house' written on the front and his skin warmed knowing Tahnee had been in such a welcoming place all along.
Ty smiled wide as he stood at the doors.
"You ready?" he asked.
Reed could only nod and Ty opened the doors.
There she stood, basked in the sunlight from the open doors at the front of the schoolhouse, her words put on pause by the sudden interruption. It took her a moment for her eyes to find him but when they did, they instantly welled up with tears and she came running across the floor to leap into his arms. He kissed her face everywhere he could feel skin and squeezed her tightly to his body never wanting to let her go. Neither of them could find words but they didn't have to, not yet. After what seemed like an eternity, she pulled herself away and looked over her shoulder, gesturing to a small child to come forward.
Miyla, the child, his child, with bright eyes, rich black curly hair, caramel skin, and a curious expression came forward.
"Come meet your daddy," Tahnee said.
The child suddenly pushed their chair away and came running just like her mother and latched onto Reed's leg. He bent down and scooped her up, holding her close as tears streamed down his face. He'd found them at last.
After some time Reed set his daughter down and looked back to Tahnee.
"The boy?" he asked.
Tahnee smiled and said,
"He's in the vegetable garden helping The Prophet," Tahnee said and together they went behind the schoolhouse. Tahnee led him to a large community garden where other children were assisting a man to tend to the many plants they were growing here.
"Jason," Tahnee called out. A small child's head popped up from the dense flora. "Come here please."
The boy waded through the large stalks until he stood next to Tahnee. He was a bit bigger than Miyla but despite his parents, he was a bright, smiling boy and Reed took a knee to look him in the eye with a thoughtful expression.
"Hey there, son," Reed said with fondness.
The boy looked inquisitively at Reed, then to Tahnee. She gave him a reassuring smile and suddenly Jason threw his arms around Reed's neck. Reed lifted him into the air and held him close. He didn't care that the boy wasn't his. A boy needed a father, and he was ready to be anything the child needed.
"Did they tell you who else was here?" Tahnee interrupted.
Reed eyed her inquisitively and shook his head.
"Besides you?" he asked.
Tahnee nodded and her smile softened.
"We didn't tell him you were coming either," she said and suddenly she reached for his hand. "Jason let go of your father and return to your studies. We'll be back," Tahnee instructed as she led Reed across the town to a building next to the large church.
The building bore a red cross on the front and Reed knew straight away that it was a medical building. Curious, he followed Tahnee up the wooden steps and followed her inside. There, a woman stood before rows of shelves checking the expiry dates and inventory of all her stock.
"He's here!" the woman exclaimed, putting her clipboard down and coming over to give Reed a hug. "Welcome to New Canaan," the woman said warmly. "I'm Angela, the doctor here."
"I've heard much about you," Reed echoed her kindness.
"Likewise, and surprisingly all good… for a Legionary," Angela said, almost teasingly. "I suppose you want to see him?"
Reed eyed both women questioningly.
"See who?" he asked.
"It's probably a good idea. Seeing you may actually be the motivation he needs," Angela said cryptically as she opened a door at the back of the clinic and gestured for Reed to go inside. "We'll give you two some privacy."
Reed stepped into the dimly lit room and saw a body, clad head to toe in bandages lying on a bed. The only piece of the figure visible between the rows of bandages and dressings were his eyes, which were closed, and Reed thought he looked dead. Reed was about to ask who the man was, but Angela closed the door behind him, and the man's eyes opened.
"Reed?" a raspy voice called to him.
Reed felt his skin crawl when the man spoke his name and when he looked at the eyes behind the words, the air in his lungs felt as though it had turned to stone.
"Legate!" Reed just about yelled and in what felt like one step he'd crossed the room to be at the man's bedside. "You're alive?!"
"Somehow," the Legate said weakly.
"How… how did you… I don't believe this. Aramis! Aramis has to know! I have to…" Reed bantered.
"She can't know," the Legate interrupted with pained words.
"What?! Why?! You have no idea what she's going through! This would change everything for her!" Reed defended.
"It would only put her at greater risk. No… she can't find out. Please," the Legate said.
"I don't know about this… You don't know what she's been like since your execution. She's…"
"It has to be this way," the Legate interrupted once more.
Reed decided they would revisit that issue later but for now, he dropped it and sat on the bed next to his friend.
"Does it hurt?" Reed asked.
"It's supposed to hurt," the Legate said and through the bandages, Reed could see he was smiling. "I can't believe you're here. It's good to see you."
"I feel like I'm talking to a ghost," Reed echoed disbelief right back.
"Tahnee and the children must be elated. You saw them, right?"
"I did."
"She's been exceptionally kind to me. Something I don't deserve. She helps Angela change my dressings. She's been somewhat of an acolyte around here from what I gather."
"I hope I can fit in as well," Reed said with a smirk.
"Everyone finds their place here," the Legate assured.
"Is there anything I can do for you? Anything you need?" Reed asked.
"No… this is my curse to bear," the Legate murmured. "Isn't it ironic? The extremes… if you think about it. The world tried to drown me in Zion. Then it burned me. I'm honestly not sure what's left."
Reed forced a smirk. He was happy that the Legate was making light of the situation, even if it really didn't call for it.
XXX
Hours later, Reed emerged from the clinic and saw Tahnee and Jason waiting for him. He was certain he'd never get over the thrill of turning a corner or waking up and seeing her there. He was at her side the next moment and gave her a tender kiss.
"We've been invited to Em's for dinner. You'll love her... and her cooking," Tahnee said warmly.
"Sounds perfect, there's just something I need to do first," Reed said as he took her hand in his and kissed it. "Do you know where Hardtack has gone?"
Tahnee raised her brow inquisitively before she answered.
"He and the Speculatores set up a small camp just outside New Canaan."
Reed gave her another kiss and said,
"I'll be right back."
He found Hardtack and his men where Tahnee had said they'd be. At the sight of Reed, Hardtack came over.
Reed gestured for Hardtack to follow him and when they were alone Reed told him what he'd discovered.
"The Legate is alive, he's here," Reed began.
"What?!" Hardtack questioned in disbelief.
"It's true, and Aramis must know. You must tell her this in person. Nothing can be left to any courier or cryptic message. It must come from you. Can you do this?" Reed asked.
"Of course, but… getting a private face-to-face with her is never easy," Hardtack said.
"Do whatever you must, she has to know."
"I'll deliver the message. Is there anything else she should know?"
"He's alive and recovering. I saw and spoke with him. He believes she shouldn't know, but I think knowing that he's alive will give her that edge back to keep up the game and find her own way out.
"Alright," Hardtack stated.