A/N - I apologize for the delay. Very busy! So glad to see your reviews again humancyrax! I definitely tried to kill Dale when I replayed the game recently. Failed of course ;) I'm glad you're loving how things are going so far and soon to be drawing to a close. Thank you so much Mal for the kind review! I definitely try to keep things engaging though even I admit sometimes I wonder if there's fluff I could trim out. If you say it's not too wordy - then I trust you! It's really fun to play within the cannon but take creative liberties. We all know what's coming but how we get there is anyone's guess. Paul, Velociraptor, I hope these next few chapters don't disappoint. Thank you all so very much for continuing this journey with me. I've love writing this for all of you!
Chapter 73
March 2278 – July 2278
Seekra emerged from the lab, tightly clutching her stethoscope in one hand and her small bookbag in the other. It was nearly 6:00 pm, and as always, she was the last one to leave. On Wednesdays, Seekra had her labs, while Athos attended his hydrotherapy session with Camille, followed by a friendly poker game in the common room with fellow patients at the Veterans Hospital.
Life outside the Legion exceeded Seekra's wildest expectations. At times, she felt a twinge of guilt for her happiness, especially when she thought about those they had left behind. Despite her limited knowledge of medicine, gained from the few books the Legate had given her during her time in the Legion, Seekra had been granted permission to study medicine. Now she found herself among the 4th-year NCR medical students, their theoretical understanding lagging far behind her practical experience. To catch up with her colleagues, she stayed late every night, and her professors were more than accommodating.
The city of Shady Sands sprawled before her, requiring a twenty-minute walk from the campus to their housing condominium. It was a humble four-story building, adorned with minimal decor and simple furnishings. Yet, it far exceeded Seekra's expectations and made her feel grateful for what they had. Sliding her small key card, she entered their front door, only to be taken aback by the figure seated at the kitchen table.
"Major!" Seekra gasped breathlessly. "You startled me!"
"My apologies for intruding. I assumed your husband would be here," Major Dexterra replied casually.
"He's playing poker with other recovering veterans on Wednesdays," Seekra explained, setting her belongings on the table before offering him a drink. "Can I get you anything? Water, perhaps?"
"No, thank you," he declined. "Did you say he's playing poker with other NCR soldiers?" Dexterra inquired.
Seekra chuckled lightly as she poured herself a refreshing glass of water, taking a seat opposite him at the table. "Yes, that's right. It's their boys' night."
The Major fell silent for a moment, his raised brows expressing surprise and perhaps a hint of concern. Before he could speak, Seekra anticipated his reason for the visit.
"What brings you here?"
"I thought I would share some good news with both of you, but perhaps you can pass it on to Athos once he returns. Reed has safely arrived in New Canaan and has been reunited with his wife and children," he relayed calmly and directly.
Seekra's joy overflowed, tears welling up in her eyes. "He did?!" she exclaimed, unable to contain her happiness. In a moment of pure elation, she crossed the table, enveloping the Major in a grateful embrace. "Thank you!" she cried out, her words muffled by the fabric of his broad shoulders. She didn't mind that his arms didn't immediately encircle her; there was only gratitude in her heart. Moments later, he gingerly reciprocated, his arms wrapping around her torso. "Thank you," she repeated breathlessly, her tears dampening his attire.
"It was a collaborative effort," he responded dismissively, gently disentangling himself from the embrace. "So, I assume your classes are going well," he redirected the conversation, though Seekra couldn't quite fathom why.
"They are," she confirmed, leaning against the small refrigerator and using her sleeve to wipe away her tears.
"We're concluding cardiology this week, and next week we delve into the endocrine system. I must admit, I'm a bit nervous. It involves extensive reading, and I'm unsure if I've grasped all the key concepts expected of me at this stage." It was then that Seekra realized she should ask about him. "How are you doing?"
"Hmm?" he murmured, briefly diverting his gaze to the floor before returning it to the ceiling.
"Truly, how are you doing? Has anyone ever asked you?"
A faint smile tugged at his lips as he made his way toward the door.
"I'm glad to hear that things are progressing well for you. Don't be anxious about next week. I've heard from sources that you surpass some of your classmates in ability, and your professors find you delightful. I suppose there can be good things that come out of the Legion," he commented coolly.
Seekra folded her arms across her chest, her head tilted slightly as if she were attempting to decipher more from him than he would prefer. However, she remained silent. Dex opened the door, casting a sincere smile in her direction, and departed.
Joshua took his first steps with the aid of a cane since arriving in New Canaan. Each movement was slow and deliberate, accompanied by intense pain. But he knew that if he wanted to regain some sense of normalcy, he had to push through and challenge his body's limits.
"Take it slow," Tahee advised, her hand providing support on his upper back. Joshua clenched his teeth, paused for a moment, then reluctantly sank back onto the medical bed. Even with the cushioned mattress, the impact sent waves of agony rippling through his body, and he let out a cry of pain. "That was almost entirely on your own," Tahnee exclaimed joyfully. But for Joshua, the sluggish pace of his recovery only served to demoralize him. "You've been at it for hours. Why don't you take a break? Em has made lunch."
"No, I have to keep trying," Joshua responded, almost shouting.
"You might have been able to boss me around at The Fort, but here, I'm in charge. And I say it's time to eat," Tahnee declared, her smile unwavering. Sliding an arm under Joshua's shoulder, she helped him into the wheelchair positioned next to his bed. Joshua didn't protest; he knew better than to argue with Tahnee. In her short time in New Canaan, Tahnee had become a respected figure, someone no one dared to question. And she had earned it. "Ready?" she asked, and Joshua nodded.
Together, they made their way out of the hospital, crossing the soft gravel road and ascending the newly constructed ramp that Ty had built so that Joshua could join everyone for meals. Upon entering the front door, the tantalizing aroma of spices wafted from the kitchen, a testament to Em's exceptional home cooking.
"Need a hand?" Reed's voice came from behind them. Joshua turned his head and saw Reed ascending the steps to help Tahnee guide him through the narrow entrance of the house. "How's the physiotherapy going?" Reed inquired as he pushed Joshua the rest of the way and settled him in his usual spot at the table.
"Slow," Joshua groaned. It was the same response he gave every time Reed asked the same question.
"How's the work in the fields?" Tahnee interjected, changing the subject.
"The soil held up well this winter. We'll be able to sow earlier than expected," Reed responded cheerfully.
Farming life suited Reed. He took pleasure in working the fields, and there was no shortage of labor for an ex-Legion Centurion. Everyone was glad to have him around, even Ty, it seemed.
Just then, Ty and a few other men and women entered the house, taking their respective places at the large table. Sunday evening meals were always a communal gathering, with no exceptions. As always, Jeremiah sat at the head of the table, with Em by his side. After saying the Lord's prayer, everyone eagerly began to eat.
"I have some news," Ty announced, a wide grin spreading across his face. "I've arranged a trade for several of our Big Horner bulls in exchange for... horses."
"Horses?! Real horses that we can ride?" Angela exclaimed with excitement.
"Four of them, and a mule," Ty confirmed. "We have too many bulls. They fight nonstop, and I found a horse trader in Butte who agreed to take the bulls and let us choose our own horses."
"Does he have any horses suitable for field plowing?" a young man asked.
"Why don't you come with me when I make the selection, Daniel?" Ty offered. The young man's face lit up at the invitation.
"I'd like to come too," Joshua chimed in, suddenly capturing everyone's attention.
"If we take a brahmin wagon with us, it won't be a problem," Ty replied rather abruptly, surprising everyone by being the first to agree.
"Joshua, your wounds are still healing, and you require daily dressing changes. Embarking on a long trip to the north really isn't in your best interest," Angela protested.
"Lying in that hospital bed for months on end, barely making it from one side of the room to the other, is not in my best interest," Joshua retorted. "Besides, I can manage the dressing changes myself every day."
"I know it's slow and strenuous, but..." Angela began before Ty interrupted her.
"Let the man come on the trip. I think he's right. It would be good for his body and soul."
"When would you leave?" Jeremiah inquired.
"At the end of the week," Ty replied.
"That gives me time to prepare provisions for your journey," Em offered.
"Do you need me to handle camp security while you're gone?" Reed asked.
"That was actually my next favor to ask," Ty admitted.
"No problem at all," Reed responded.
"I still think this is a bad idea," Angela sighed.
Ty glanced at Joshua, giving him a cool smirk and the slightest nod of approval. Joshua returned the gesture.
The town of Goodsprings had developed a reputation as a kind of no man's land for both the NCR and the Legion. Somehow, this small, decrepit town had gone unnoticed, or perhaps more appropriately, unwanted by either faction therefore leaving it neutral for Aramis to simply set up camp nearby and grab a drink at the old saloon when possible.
Today she wasn't drinking alone. Shooting back whiskey in the stool next to her was a sarcastic redhead who called herself Cass. It wasn't the first time Aramis had met the caravan trader in the midst of both their travels and since they first shared a drink in the dusty old saloon, they welcomed each rare encounter with fondness. Of course, Cass had no idea who or what Aramis really was, but it was still nice to share a drink and a conversation that had nothing to do with sharing intel, planning raids or toppling a nation.
"You girls doing okay?" Trudy, the no-nonsense bartender asked as she fiddled with the nobs of a radio that played the muffled static of the New Vegas stations.
"We'll take another on Addy's tab" Cass said without consulting Aramis, though there wasn't any protest. Trudy refilled the two small dirty glasses already in front of the women. "To the parents that left us," Cass said, raising her glass into the air. Aramis raised hers as well and the two of them drank back the contents in a single swig. "Number six down the hatch," Cass grumbled.
"So how long are you staying in town this time?" Aramis asked as she gestured for another with two fingers to Trudy.
"Just until tomorrow," Cass said as she turned her glass over and set it down on the counter.
"Where are you headed?"
"South… back through the Mojave Outpost and to hopefully west from there. East isn't a viable option these days with Caesar controlling so much of the region out there."
"West is good," Aramis affirmed. "Still shacking up with the NCR Trooper at the Outpost?"
"Nah, she got posted out last month and we haven't kept in touch. Probably better off that way. Neither of us wanted anything serious. What about your man in Sin City?"
Aramis merely shrugged and said,
"When it's convenient."
"Harsh," Cass muttered as she shot back the next drink Trudy put in front of them. "Well, if things don't work out with him, you always got that psycho who's been staring at us for the last twenty minutes since he walked in here."
Aramis casually glanced over her shoulder and saw the cold, stern eyes of Hardtack who remained seated at the only table in the entire saloon. She knew he wanted to talk but frankly, she wasn't in any kind of mood for Legion politics. It had been months since she last saw the Speculatore Commander and for him to just turn up here must have meant something had or was about to happen that needed her immediate attention. His sudden appearance likely meant something bad had happened, and she figured so long as he sat in that corner silently, she could blissfully believe that everything was okay until he broke the news that it wasn't. For just one day she wished for a normal conversation with normal folk.
"Ignore him," Aramis grumbled drunkenly as she downed her drink as well.
"Easier said than done," Cass sputtered when Hardtack rose up from his chair and came towards him.
"I think this one has had enough," Hardtack interrupted as he put his giant arms around Aramis's torso and heaved her off the stool.
"What the fuck man!" Cass interjected.
Aramis rolled her eyes and put her arms out in defeat in a way that told Cass everything was fine and said,
"Don't worry, this goon and I go way back," Aramis assured her as Hardtack put enough caps down on the bar to pay the entire tab before putting her arm over his shoulder and carrying her out of the Prospector Saloon.
"See you again, Ms. Addy," Easy Pete, the old man who liked to sit out on the porch of the saloon waved her off as Hardtack helped her down the couple steps and onto the firm sand.
"Don't take my spot," Aramis teased back as she was ushered forward.
"I didn't think you liked to drink," Hardtack commented rather evenly.
Aramis tried to shrug.
"I have something important to tell you but I'm not sure you're ready to hear this while in this kind of state," he said.
"Just get out with it," Aramis grumbled.
Wasting no time, Hardtack spoke the words, "Reed made it safely to New Canaan… and Joshua is alive."
Aramis threw her arms between them and pushed him away. She went from sloppy drunk to stone sober within a fraction of a second.
"What did you say?" she snapped.
"You heard me. Joshua is alive."
Aramis couldn't comprehend the turbulent emotions swirling inside her. She heard the words, but she couldn't believe them. Images of Joshua being lit on fire and cast into the Grand Canyon was all she could remember. It wasn't possible. Hardtack must have misheard. No one could have survived that, but as the seconds ticked by, she thought, only one man could have survived that. She felt her legs weaken and she collapsed into the sand at his feet with her head in her hands. Hardtack was beside her the next moment, but she pushed him away.
"I'm fine," she said in a tone that she never intended to sound cruel. She picked herself up, dusted off her slacks, looked him in dead in the eyes and pitched forward to vomit.
Hardtack stepped beside her and rubbed her back.
"Easy," he whispered softly and handed her a carton of clean water. "Here."
Without protest she took the water, swirled a bit in her mouth to spit it out then drank back the entire contents in one go.
"Thank you," she said kindly and wiped the dribble from the corners of her mouth. "Now run this all by me again."
"Joshua is alive. I know because I saw him. He's in New Canaan. Story goes he climbed out of the Grand Canyon and hoofed it from there," Hardtack confirmed.
Now the hard questions, Aramis thought.
"How bad is it?"
"It's bad," Hardtack started. "I'm no medic but this is what I overheard. They couldn't do any grafts with his own skin because he didn't have any healthy skin to use. When I saw him last, Doc Angela had put fish skin all over his body. I don't know what was worse, how he looked or how he smelled. They got all kinds of tubes in him. Doc said that keeping his fluids up was critical, so I figured that's what all that was for. I know he's been fighting infection after infection, and he's been couped up in a bed for the last few months since he arrived. I didn't even ask if he'd ever be able to walk again."
Once again Aramis cupped her head in her hands and said,
"This is all my fault."
To that, Hardtack reached into his pocket and pulled out a piece of paper. He unfolded it and handed it to Aramis. She saw right away that it was a children's drawing of two large stick figures and two smaller ones on either side. Above each figure was a single world etched in barely legible handwriting. The words read, Mommy, Daddy, Miyla and Me. Aramis knew right away what this was. Jason, son of Colt and Hecate and now the adopted son of Tahnee and Reed had drawn this picture.
"Reed thought you should have this."
The moment Aramis's eyes saw the picture she felt a massive weight on her body lift. It was like she could feel the warmth of the sun on her skin again and the breeze cool the back of her neck. This was the perspective she'd forgotten - why she did everything she did. It had always been for them, but she didn't deserve all the credit, not even close. There had been so many others that had sacrificed everything so that the few could have their life far from the Legion and most importantly, out of Caesar's control. Aramis smiled and lowered the picture. Now she could see Hardtack, really see him.
"How's Cali doing?" she asked. Hardtack smiled and the two of them started walking north.
"She's really good. Every time I'm in New Reno we go south for a few days to Lake Tahoe. It's pretty much untouched out there and it's perfect. We'll lay on the sand… let the little one dip his feet in the sand." Hardtack said passively but gave pause so Aramis could react.
"Little one?" Aramis mused enthusiastically.
"Just turned one, and we have another on the way," Hardtack said. Aramis clasped his shoulder and gave it a comforting squeeze.
"I'm really happy for you," she said.
"Can I ask how you got the money now?" Hardtack asked.
"I would think it's pretty obvious."
"I have my suspicions."
"They're probably correct. Fuck it… I'm on borrowed time at this point," Aramis muttered. "For my complete and unwavering cooperation to the NCR." Aramid admitted.
Hardtack only nodded a couple of times and asked,
"Was it worth it?"
Aramis stopped walking and thought about his question. She raised the drawing and looked at it for a few seconds. She thought about Athos and Seekra making a life for themselves somewhere in the west, of Reed and his family in New Canaan, and now Hardtack and his family enjoying the beaches near some lake. She allowed herself to think of those they lost as a direct result of her betrayal, the Centurions who fell in the battle for the dam and the countless other Legionaries slain because of the intel she handed to Dex willingly. Aramis looked to Hardtack and her eyes shifted to Desert Dog's old sniper rifle Hardtack had slung over his shoulder.
"I think so," she answered truthfully. "But I suppose if you disagree, you can exact the correct punishment," she added as she gestured to the rifle. She turned and started to walk again and closed her eyes when she didn't hear his footsteps immediately behind her. At any moment she was certain she'd hear the crack of the rifle and that would be it, but a few seconds later, Hardtack was beside her again.
"So, what's our next move?" he asked.
Aramis let out a deep breath and said,
"I'm all out of moves… all used up. It's just a matter of time before Caesar realizes I got nothing left and puts me down for good. The show belongs to Vulpes now."
"So that's it? Wait to die at the hands of Caesar?" Hardtack asked. "Even knowing now that Joshua is alive?"
"If I disappear, the NCR will know and that puts everyone else at risk. So long as I play my part until my death, Athos… Reed… they all get their chance at life and Joshua…" Aramis paused for a moment. "Who else knows?"
"Knows what?" Hardtack asked.
"That Joshua is alive?" Aramis said, her voice almost panicked.
"I don't know. They actually wanted to keep this a secret from you but Reed and I both agreed you needed to know," Hardtack said truthfully.
"A secret from me? Why?" she asked but she guessed at their reasoning. When it came to all things Joshua, she'd put herself more at risk to keep him safe, and that was true. Knowing he was alive now meant she knew he was in danger, and he was vulnerable. If she knew, chances were that Caesar did too and if Caesar knew. "I have to get back to The Fort!" Aramis said abruptly.
Preparations for the journey were made on the morning of departure as Ty, Daniel, and Joshua set off for Butte. The wagon, pulled by two brahmin, was tethered to eight Big Horner bulls. Their week-long trip along Interstate I-15 began with Joshua seated next to Ty, a large hunting rifle resting on his lap, while Daniel kept watch from the back of the wagon.
"Never thought I would be on a road trip with you," Ty remarked, his tone devoid of animosity.
"Too soon to ask if you'd be the best man at my wedding?" Joshua playfully teased. Ty chuckled in response.
"Seriously though, thanks for letting me come on this trip," Joshua expressed his gratitude.
"Not many can handle that rifle half as well as you. As long as we don't have to run, I'm not worried," Ty reassured him.
"We can always sacrifice the boy if we must," Joshua jokingly suggested, leading to another chuckle from Ty.
"Are you talking about me?" Daniel called out.
"No," Ty and Joshua replied in unison.
They took turns driving the wagon, sleeping, and keeping a watchful eye on the horizon. Six days passed without incident until they finally arrived at Butte, where they marveled at the sprawling ranch property. Securitrons, turrets, and other fortifications were strategically placed, ensuring the safety of the area from both human and creature threats. At the entrance, they were greeted by a tall, older man sporting a thick white mustache and a white cowboy hat. Joshua, aided by his cane, walked alongside Ty to greet the man.
"Welcome to Butte Ranch," the rancher warmly greeted them, shaking each man's hand with extra care for Joshua. "Goodness, they are big!" he exclaimed gleefully, admiring the Big Horner bulls.
"Where can the kid put them?" Ty inquired.
"The large paddock right there," the rancher gestured toward a vast piece of land descending into a low valley.
Daniel guided the train of Big Horners to the paddock gate, unleashing them. The creatures bucked and frolicked with an awkward grace, reveling in their newfound freedom.
"Want to see the horses?" the rancher offered.
"You bet," Ty eagerly responded, and the rancher led them down a wide gravel path to the back of the property, where over two dozen horses peacefully grazed in an open pasture.
"There are so many!" Daniel exclaimed as he perched himself on the wooden fence. "Where did you get them all?"
"Some were brought down from Canada, but most were bred right here on the ranch. There are a couple of mules mixed in there as well," the rancher explained.
"They're amazing!" Daniel beamed.
"More mares foaled this year than the property can sustain. The Big Horners will eat the rough stuff, but the horses are picky. I appreciate the trade," the rancher shared.
"We can pick the ones we want?" Daniel asked eagerly.
"Or I can select the ones we need," Ty firmly interjected, causing Daniel to shrink a little. Ty smirked.
"You can pick one," Ty relented, and Joshua witnessed the widest grin he had ever seen on Daniel's face.
"Terrain might be a bit tough for that cane. You going to be able to manage?" the rancher inquired, looking at Joshua.
"I should be alright," Joshua assured him. Together, they walked across the pasture toward the horses. The rancher handed each of them a small bag of feed and instructed them to take their time.
Unfazed by the newcomers, almost every horse approached them, willingly accepting the feed. Within minutes, Ty and Daniel had selected three horses that would best suit their needs in New Canaan. Ty chose a sizable draft gelding, as promised, for field work, accompanied by a slightly smaller but equally sturdy mare. Daniel opted for a small yet agile paint gelding, envisioning it as an ideal mount for everyday riding and a horse on which the kids could learn.
"You have the last pick," Ty announced, gesturing to Joshua.
"I don't know much about horses," Joshua admitted.
"Choose one you like. You'll be riding it home," Ty insisted.
Joshua smirked and surveyed the surroundings. While these magnificent creatures were God's creation, he ultimately decided on a buckskin mare.
"She's one of my favorites," the rancher whispered to Joshua as he fed the mare a handful of feed. "Now, let me fetch you one of the mules, and that should be it."
Once all the horses and the mule were settled in their designated paddock, the rancher kindly offered them a place to sleep in the barn before their departure in the morning. Grateful for the gesture, Ty and Daniel wasted no time settling down on the straw, but Joshua felt restless and decided to explore the rancher's property, stretching his legs before the long journey back.
The night air was crisp and clean, adorned with countless stars. Joshua, looking up at the heavens, expressed his gratitude to God for this beautiful night. He ventured to the small paddock where their horses were kept and was delighted when the mare he had chosen approached him. He gently stroked her face and scratched behind her ear.
"Guess you'll be needing a name," Joshua whispered to her. He chose the name Eden, inspired by the paradise of the Garden of Eden. It seemed fitting, as every time he saw the mare, he would be reminded of this perfect place and this perfect night. With great effort and a touch of pain, Joshua climbed over the fence and settled against a fence post. Eden and the other horses grazed around him. When they sought an ear rub, they would approach Joshua, nuzzle him, and then move on once satisfied. It wasn't long before Joshua lay down in the grass under the stars, finding solace and drifting off to sleep.
"Where's Caesaer?" Aramis demanded to know when she entered the War Tent and saw that Caesar's chair sat empty. Lanius was the only body in sight, and he stood examining the table.
"Welcome home, Commander," Lanius said almost too calmly in such a deep voice that Aramis was certain it had to be exaggerated.
"Where is he?" she echoed.
"Indisposed," he answered vaguely.
"For fuck's sake, Lanius... where is he?!" Aramis exclaimed, her temper flaring.
"He's gone for the day with Centurion Wendigo. They're conducting trials for the new Decanii positions," Lanius explained without a trace of sass.
"Trials?" Aramis questioned, puzzled.
"It was Vulpes's idea. Instead of appointing men solely based on merit, they have to be nominated by a Centurion and complete specific tasks to earn the rank. You should have known if you were here," Lanius remarked, implying her absence.
"I don't have time for this. I need to find Caesar now," Aramis declared, making her way towards the tent's exit.
Before she could leave, Lanius called out, "Is this about the Burned Man?"
Aramis turned on her heel, her curiosity piqued. "What?"
"The Burned Man. We don't speak his real name. It's forbidden," Lanius stated matter-of-factly.
Confused, Aramis confronted him. "What are you talking about?"
"He's alive... but you already knew this, didn't you? Why else would you come back to The Fort and demand an audience with our master?" Lanius revealed.
"How do you know he's alive?" Aramis demanded, trying to gather information.
"I have nothing to hide. A certain trader and I have an understanding, and he always shares information with me. I suppose he fears I'd separate the head of another one of his Big Horners if he kept anything from me," Lanius confessed, providing the truth willingly.
"Dale... Dale saw him," Aramis disclosed. "What is Caesar planning?"
"The Burned Man lives... for now," Lanius disclosed cryptically.
Realizing the delicacy of the situation, Aramis needed to be cautious with her response. If she wanted to save the Burned Man, she had to convince everyone that she wanted him dead, just like Caesar.
"If the men find out the Leg... the Burned Man is alive, they'll question Caesar's power. They'll see the Burned Man as a symbol of strength and resilience, undermining Caesar's ability to rule through fear," Aramis asserted firmly.
"The men's will, or yours?" Lanius challenged.
"Are you questioning my loyalty?" Aramis snapped.
"Your loyalty, your priorities, your ability... pick one," Lanius seethed with malice.
"You're out of line," Aramis warned, her patience wearing thin.
"Am I?" Lanius countered.
Just then, the tent flap opened, and Caesar, accompanied by Wendigo, Lucius, and Vulpes, entered. Aramis quickly composed herself, crossing her fist over her chest.
"True to Caesar," she greeted, but Caesar paid her no attention, heading straight to his throne.
"Where have you been?!" he snapped when he finally met her gaze.
"I've been securing more informants with the westward caravan routes," Aramis replied. "But I need to speak with you in private," she urged.
"You can speak plainly in front of everyone," Caesar dismissed.
"I must insist," Aramis insisted firmly.
"Insist?!" Caesar growled in frustration.
"Your Frumentarii Commander just learned about the Burned Man," Lanius interjected.
Aramis shot Lanius a cold glare.
"Has he?" Caesar inquired.
"Is he here to confirm what I already know? It seems like you're late to the news, Commander," Caesar taunted.
"Please... I..." Aramis began, but Caesar raised his hand, silencing her.
"It's already being dealt with," he declared.
"Dealt with? By whom? What's going on?" Aramis pressed for answers.
"You needn't concern yourself with this, Commander," Caesar dismissed, waving his hand dismissively.
"Let me go after the Legate!" Aramis pleaded, her words slipping before she could stop herself, using the forbidden name.
Caesar shot her a warning look, but before he could speak, Aramis continued, trying to salvage the situation.
"My brother is dead because of that man!" Aramis yelled, and suddenly, the room fell silent. "The men I grew up with are dead! Everyone I shed blood for, for you, is dead!" Aramis pointed her finger directly at Caesar. "I have lost everyone I care about, and that man still breathes!" Her anger vibrated through her words. "I want him dead! Probably more than any other man in this room, even more than you," she snapped, locking eyes with Caesar. This was her only move. She had to sell it.
"You think you can be the one to kill him?" Caesar asked, his tone level.
"I know I can," Aramis retorted.
"Very well, I don't see any reason not to let you go... but Aramis... if you fail... it will be your head," Caesar said indifferently.
XXX
Aramis began packing her belongings for the journey when a voice called from outside her tent.
"Commander? May I enter?"
Recognizing Vulpes's voice, Aramis gave permission, and he stepped in.
"I wanted to apologize for overstepping. You've been gone for so long, and I thought I was doing what you would have wanted to keep things moving forward. I never expected Caesar to think I was trying to undermine you to advance myself," Vulpes expressed, trying to make amends. Aramis paused her packing, turning to face him.
"You don't have anything to apologize for. Thanks to you, the Frumentarii continue to succeed. If anything, I should apologize to you for my absence in leadership, but... I have my reasons," she assured him.
"You don't have to explain anything to me. You'll always have my loyalty," Vulpes reassured her. Aramis placed a hand on his shoulder and smiled.
"You're a good man, Vulpes, and you'll lead the men better than I ever could," she praised as she walked past him, leaving the tent.
"Here he is!" Daniel's voice echoed in Joshua's mind, and he jolted awake, scanning his surroundings with alarm.
"Jesus Christ, man! We've been searching everywhere for you!" Ty shouted as he hurried over.
"Fell asleep out here," Joshua replied with a yawn.
"Angela would murder me if she found out I let you sleep in the dirt. Keep this one to yourself," Ty teased. "Come on, the rancher has coffee for us, and then we'll saddle up the horses and get going."
The men rendezvoused with the rancher and his family at their outdoor kitchen. The wife had prepared freshly baked bread and homemade jam. Joshua had never tasted anything so sweet and delicious. As they prepared the horses, he noticed his saddlebag felt slightly heavier than usual. Opening it, he discovered two jars of the wife's jam. Glancing at her, she raised a finger to her lips, smiling.
"You think you can ride like that?" the rancher asked, helping Joshua onto his mare.
Joshua had to admit that the pressure on certain tender spots was less than comfortable, but the exhilaration of being atop the horse made up for it.
"I'll manage," he reassured them.
Ty drove the wagon, while Daniel rode the small paint horse, and Joshua followed on his buckskin. The journey back was uneventful, just the way they preferred it. When they arrived at the main gate, the entire town turned out to greet them and admire the horses. With some assistance from a fence post, Joshua dismounted. He felt sore and tender all over, not just from his old wounds, but from spending over six consecutive days in the saddle. Before he knew it, Angela was by his side.
"We should check you over, just to make sure everything is still clean," she suggested, and Joshua knew she was right. Angela handed him his cane, and together they made their way across town to the clinic. "How was the trip?" she asked as they ascended the wooden steps.
"It was something special," Joshua admitted.
"I'm glad you and Ty didn't kill each other. I gave it a fifty-fifty chance," she teased as they entered the examination room, and Angela began helping him remove the bandages.
"Ty's a good man," Joshua said sincerely. "A lesser man would have murdered me a long time ago. Only great men can forgive at the level he has."
"He truly is a great man," Angela agreed.
"I'm genuinely happy for both of you," Joshua told her.
Angela inspected all his burn scars and nodded, indicating that everything seemed to be healing well.
"You've been taking your antibiotics?" she asked.
"Just as the doctor ordered," Joshua replied.
"Everything looks alright, but please take it easy. Riding a smelly, dirty animal might not be the best for a man still susceptible to infection," she advised.
"I'll monitor closely, and if anything feels off, you'll be the first to know," Joshua promised.
Angela gently squeezed his hand, provided him with a refill of oral antibiotics, and they left the clinic together.
XXX
The New Canaanites used to load up a wagon with their goods every week or so and travel to the New Canaanite Trademeet for trading. Although it was a slow process, it allowed for the exchange of large quantities of goods. However, with the addition of horses, they were now able to make shorter trips with smaller quantities, resulting in fresher items and quicker access to medical assistance if needed.
A neighboring settlement requested a significant trade, and the New Canaanites were more than willing to accommodate. Joshua eagerly volunteered for any trip outside of New Canaan. Walking on two legs was slow and tiring, but riding on the four legs of Eden felt like pure bliss. Daniel had become his partner on these trips to the New Canaanite Trademeet and beyond. The two of them enjoyed racing down the dirt road, kicking up dust for those in the wagon to endure.
As they set off for the Trademeet, Joshua had no idea who awaited his return.
Aramis took every caution and more to ensure she couldn't be traced to New Canaan. She changed her outfit nearly a dozen times and assumed new identities at every trade outpost. Only when New Canaan came into sight did she finally adopt the persona of Eyre. Dressed in simple fitted slacks, casual western-style boots, and a plaid flannel shirt, she approached the gates of New Canaan unarmed and undeterred.
"Do my eyes deceive me?" Ty exclaimed when he saw her approaching.
"Hey Ty," she greeted him kindly, and they shared a brief hug.
"What are you doing out here?" he asked.
"I came to check in on some friends," she casually replied.
Ty shook his head and smiled before responding, "They should have known better than to try and keep you two apart."
"Is he here?" she asked.
"Depends on which 'he' you're referring to," Ty teased. "If you mean your lifelong murder pal, then yes, he is here. If you mean the leader of the murder pals, well, I'm afraid he's not."
"Where is he?" Aramis inquired, her heart sinking.
"He went north to the New Canaanite Trademeet. He should be back either later today or tomorrow. Come on inside. I'll take you to Reed," Ty offered. He led Aramis down the gravel road to the fence line where the well-established farmlands stretched out. Aramis noticed several New Canaanites working the fields, but she easily picked out Reed with his unmistakable eye patch.
"We call him Oakley now… and Tahnee took the name Tabitha, though everyone calls her Tabby for short," Ty informed her. Aramis smirked and nodded. "Hey Oakley! Someone's here to see you!" Ty hollered.
Reed looked up from his work of planting the field and spotted them. He quickly made his way toward them, breaking into a run. Aramis couldn't help herself and leaped over the wooden fence, running into his waiting arms.
"I can't believe you're here!" Reed exclaimed, swinging her around.
"I got your message!" Aramis said, trying to match his enthusiasm.
"You look… pretty bad," Reed teased, ruffling his fingers through her short blonde hair.
"It was a long journey, and some fire geckos chased me into a fast-moving river," Aramis explained, showing off her new bruises and scrapes. Reed laughed and shook his head.
"I can't believe you're really here. Joshua is going to lose it when he sees you. He left early this morning to help with the weekly trade, but he should be back tonight. The weather was good, and I doubt they ran into any trouble. Come on!" Reed blurted out. "You have to see Tabby and the kids!" Reed insisted. "Oh! Tabby is…"
"Tahnee. Yes, Ty explained. I'm supposed to call you Oakley now," Aramis interjected.
"Ty picked it. It's fine," Reed said with a smirk in Ty's direction.
"If I see the caravan returning, I'll come find you," Ty said as he walked off. Reed took Aramis by the hand and ran with her down the road to a small house with pale yellow siding. He dashed up the stairs and threw open the door.
"Look who came for a visit!" Reed yelled.
A moment later, Tahnee emerged from what Aramis assumed was the kitchen, and her face lit up with an ear-to-ear grin at the sight of Aramis. The two women embraced in a long hug, and then Aramis noticed the two little ones hiding behind their mother.
"Don't be shy now," Tahnee told her children, gently coaxing them forward. "This is your Auntie... ugh..."
"Eyre," Aramis interjected warmly. "You can call me Eyre... and I brought gifts!" she exclaimed cheerfully, reaching into her satchel and pulling out two small stuffed animals made from genuine Brahmin hide and fur. One was shaped like a felis cat, while the other resembled a gecko. Miyla eagerly grabbed the felis, leaving her brother Jason to happily take the gecko.
"Where did you find those?" Tahnee asked, curious.
"I made them. It's pretty simple, really," Aramis replied.
"Are you hungry? I was just fixing some lunch for Oakley and the kids," Tahnee offered.
"That sounds great," Aramis replied, her stomach rumbling in agreement.
"Why don't you give Ara... Eyre a tour of the house, Oakley? And I'll holler when lunch is ready," Tahnee suggested.
"I'd like that," Aramis responded with a smile.
"We want to go with Dad," Jason piped up.
"Give your dad and your aunt some space. Take your new toys outside and play," Tahnee insisted. The two children shuffled their feet but eventually obeyed their mother.
Reed began the tour, starting with the modest living room, but they didn't make it much further before the questions started pouring out.
"Are you here to stay? Did you get out?" Reed bombarded Aramis with questions. Her expression turned sullen, and she shook her head.
"Caesar knows Joshua is alive. He sent me here to kill him," she explained, her voice heavy with the weight of the task.
"Fuck! If Caesar knows Joshua is here... he will destroy this place," Reed countered, concern etched on his face.
"Not if my plan works," Aramis countered optimistically.
"What are you thinking?" Reed inquired.
"Somehow, I have to convince Caesar that Graham is indeed dead. I was hoping we'd all be able to come up with something together," she replied, seeking their input.
Reed nodded, understanding the gravity of the situation. "It has to work, or Caesar will reduce this place to ash, if he doesn't plan to already."
"I doubt Caesar has his eye on New Canaan."
"This has me worried, Aramis."
Before they could continue the discussion, Tahnee's voice called through, announcing that lunch was ready. They made their way back to the dining room, where everyone gathered around the small table. But before they began eating, Tahnee stood and spoke a prayer, invoking a sense of gratitude and blessing.
"We look to you, O Lord,
for food to nourish our bodies,
for grace to strengthen our spirits,
for love to enrich our life;
through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen."
Aramis flashed Reed a look and he smiled. Shaking her head and only smiling back Aramis accepted some pieces of fresh bread, some steamed vegetables and a large heaping spoonful of a stew that smelled incredible.
"I know this recipe," Aramis said delighted.
"Em has taught me nearly all her cooking secrets," Tahnee explained as helped little Miyla break apart her bread for dipping.
"You know Granny Em too?" Jason asked.
"Sure do," Aramis said warmly.
"When we're done eating, can we show Auntie Eyre where we caught the big fish?!" Jason asked with such enthusiasm.
"I'd love that," Aramis replied gleefully.
The conversation around the table reminded Aramis of what it had been like so many years ago and now she was sharing that same moment, that same feeling with her best friend and his amazing wife. She couldn't have asked for a better life for the two of them and she couldn't think of two people who deserved it any better than they did.
True to her promise, Aramis, Reed and Jason went down to a small creek on the outskirts of town so Jason could show her where he saw the "big fish" that Reed gestured with his fingers as being no more and a couple of inches.
"One day I'll catch him," Jason said as he eyed the slow-moving water.
"Do you have a fishing pole?" Aramis asked.
"Not yet," Jason said.
"Maybe we should make on. I remember seeing some old line in Jeremiah's shed ages ago. I bet it's still there. If you and your dad hunt down a strong, sturdy sapling, I bet we can make you one," Aramis suggested.
"Would there be enough for Miyla too?!" Jason asked.
"I'm sure of it," Aramis said. The joy on Jason's face made Aramis wish she didn't have to leave. She could play aunt to these kids for the rest of her days, but she knew this wouldn't be forever, so making the most of it now had to be okay.
"We'll meet you back at the house," Reed said. Aramis nodded and headed for the church.
She pushed open the large heavy wood door and stepped in. The self-proclaimed prophet himself was sweeping the stone floors and glanced up when she entered. He wore a simple pair of black pants with a white button down shirt and sleek black tie.
"I heard the rumour circulating that you were in town, and I wondered when you'd come over to greet these old bones," he said warmly and the two of them embraced in a warm hug.
"It's good to see you," Aramis said as they pulled apart.
"It is good to see you too, child. My, much you grow each and every time," he said sweetly.
"Is it… okay that I'm here?" Aramis asked.
"Why ever would it not be?" he inquired.
"I'm not here to stay. I will have to return," she said truthfully.
"Then I will continue to pray for the day when you call this place your forever home," he said with a wide smile.
"One day perhaps… should your God will it," Aramis said with a playful smirk that he returned. "I have a favour to ask."
"What can I do for you?"
"I believe I came across some old spools of fishing line in your garden shed many years ago. I was wondering if it was still there. I wanted to make a couple of fishing poles for Oakley and Tabby's children," Aramis said.
"The line is still there, and I can do you one better. You'll find hooks on the shelf just above the work bench," he offered.
Aramis took his hand in hers and squeezed it in thanks before turning her attention to the garden shed and retrieving the line and hooks. When she returned to Reed's home, she found the two children waiting on the porch for her with their saplings. Aramis held up the line and hooks for them to see as she approached. Both kids were beaming with excitement.
Reed and his family sat while Aramis tied a line on each of their saplings and showed them how to tie the hook on the end. When they were done, Tahnee gave them all some kernels of corn and off they went to the creek to fish. They spent most of the afternoon dropping their line in and pulling out the small fish that no one knew the name off. By the end of the day, they'd filled a bucket with over a dozen.
"Can we eat these ones, dad?" Jason asked.
"Not these ones. Too small. They need time to grow so we toss them back," Reed said as he listed the bucket and began to pour the small fish back into the creek. As he did, Jason said goodbye to each one he pulled out of the creek by name. Once they were all back, they made their way back to the house where Tahnee had dinner waiting.
"How many did you catch?" Tahnee asked as they came into the house.
"Fifteen!" Jason called out. Miyla caught the biggest one!"
Reed carried the now slumbering Miyla into the house and laid her down in her bed.
"She fell asleep?" Tahnee asked.
"On the walk back," Reed said, kissing his wife on the forehead.
"I'll save her a plate for later," Tahnee said as they tucked in for dinner. As before, Tahnee said her prayer and they ate a delicious meal she'd prepared for them all. It wasn't long before Jason excused himself and went to bed.
"Why don't the two of you sit on the porch. The caravan should be getting back anytime now. I'll do the dishes," Tahnee offered.
Aramis and Reed sat on wicker chairs on the front porch and watched as she sun started setting over the Great Salt Lake. Neither of them said a word as the sky went from a bright yellow to a soft orange, to a burnt orange and a fiery pink and red. Aramis had forgotten what sunsets here had looked like.
A small dot appeared on the horizon then several more. Aramis sat up in her chair. They were coming by the main road. It had to be them. As they drew closer Aramis could make out the silhouette of a wagon and two other large animals she'd only ever seen in books. Aramis stood from the chair and rested her weight forward on the railing. That's as far as her body would allow her to move until she was certain.
"That's them," Reed confirmed. Aramis watched as the caravan group entered the town, greeted by townsfolk on all sides. "Aramis? You okay? Joshua is right there," he said, his face full of concern.
Aramis couldn't move. Joshua was right there, on the back of the large animal that pranced in place as people started to offload the wagon. She knew it was him. His body was covered from head to toe in white bandages that disappeared under his clothing. She knew it had been bad, but had she really prepared herself for this level of bad?
He hadn't seen her yet, even as she willed her legs forward one at a time, off the porch and down the road to the gathering. She watched him dismount from the horse and take his cane from the saddle. He was pulling the reigns over the horses' head when he glanced over and saw her.
He froze.
So did she.
His icy blue eyes locked on hers. They narrowed for a moment before widening. It was the only facial gesture she could see through the layers of bandages. Suddenly she was sprinting for him and in just seconds she'd ran straight into his waiting arms. She held him tighter now that she'd ever held him before, never thinking about the pain it may have caused. His fingers combed through her hair over and over as she buried her face into the side of his neck and shoulder.
"I can't believe you're here," he whispered to her. Someone else took the reins of the horse for him and Joshua took Aramis by the shoulders and moved her just a few inches from his face. "Come with me."
With the use of the cane, Joshua led Aramis down the road to a small wood cabin that reminded her a little bit of his shack back in Flagstaff. It was on the outskirts of town, private and somewhat secluded from everyone else, just how she knew he liked it. He only had to climb three stairs, but they clearly still pained him. Once up, he opened the cabin door and held it open for her to enter.
The cabin was cozy and basked in a glow from two small gas lamps on either side of his bed. There was a small kitchen and a reading desk. It was all anyone really needed in this world. When they were both inside, he turned and faced her. Before he could say anything, she reached up to the bandages of his face. His hands were on hers, preventing her from continuing.
"I…" he started but she pulled her hands away from his and rested her fingertips on his facial bandages. He closed his eyes as she started to peel back the layers one by one. The bandages seemed to melt away as they loosened and when she had removed them from his head entirely, she stopped.
All his hair hand been burned away leaving a surface of thin scar tissue along his scalp. His face hadn't evaded the flames either, but it wasn't nearly as bad as Aramis has anticipated. The left side had been touched by the fire more than the right but rather than look blistered and raw he just looked more weathered by time.
She leaned in and kissed him tenderly on the lips, parting his mouth to taste his tongue. He took both her hands in one of his and held them to the center of his chest while his free hand pulled her closer in the small of her back. She pulled away for a moment and stared into his face.
"Does it hurt?" she asked.
"Not as much as the thought of never seeing you again," he whispered as he kissed her cheek.
"Why do you have to stay bandaged?" Aramis asked.
"The moment the air touches my skin it feels electric. Any kind of temperature spike is exaggerated tenfold. Even just the sun feels like a fire poker. The bandages create a barrier between feeling those extremes and keeping the dirt out of the wounds that are still more susceptible to becoming infected," he said.
"I'm so sorry," Aramis spoke softly.
"There is nothing you need to apologize to me for. If this is the cost of freedom, I'd pay it a hundred times over," he replied calmly. A silent moment past between them before he spoke again. "I want you to see me."
Aramis pulled away slightly and said,
"Won't that be painful?"
"I have to change these dressing anyways. Being on horseback all day isn't exactly hygienic and… you should see me," he told her. Aramis helped him unbutton his white collared and peeled it off his shoulders while he unclasped his belt and pulled it through his pant loops. Next, he kicked off his boots and pushed them to the side. He let her hands clasp the button of his pants and slide the zipper down allowing him to step out of his pants once they fell to his ankles. He stood before her in nothing more than a pair of silk boxer briefs he'd gone to great lengths to procure and his body covered from the neck down in old dirty bandages and dressings. "Is it that bad?" he asked, and Aramis assumed her troubled expression had been clear on her face.
"Every day?" she asked. She saw Joshua slump forward slightly like he interpreted the question as if she was coming to terms with her own burden. "No… no… I don't care about that," she quickly tried to recover. "I just can't imagine everything you've gone through. You never give up on life," she said with a warm smile. "It's just one of so many things I love about you," she said, leaning in and kissing him again as she unfurled the bandages that covered the rest of his body. When they lay in a heap on the floor she pulled away and looked him over top to bottom.
Joshua's skin had transformed into a living testament of agony and resilience. Every inch of his body bore the cruel imprints left by the merciless flames. Where soft, supple flesh had once adorned his form, there now resided a mosaic of scars. Swaths of pale, puckered skin weaved across his body like intricate tapestries. The burn wounds had ranged in severity, each with its own distinctive appearance. The least severe painted the skin with a rosy hue. The moderate burns unveiled a more unsettling sight. Blistered and weeping still, the skin became a battleground in its desire to heal. The worst of the burns that instilled awe and horror alike. The full-thickness wounds plunged through the depths of the dermis, leaving behind a scarred terrain of raw, charred flesh. The once familiar complexion had been lost to a cruel fusion of darkened, leathery patches and white, waxy remnants. Nerves lay exposed, stripped of their protective shield, leaving him to endure an unrelenting symphony of pain. Yet, despite the ravages inflicted upon his body, Joshua's spirit seemed unbroken. Through the ravaged landscape of his skin, Aramis saw that hope lingered, resilient as ever. Each scar was a testament to his courage, a mark of endurance in the face of unimaginable horror.
"You really don't have to help with this part," Joshua told her as he reached into a wooden cabinet and pulled out a large box white box with a red cross on it. He opened it to reveal new fresh dressings, bandages and bottles of sterile solution.
"Show me what you do," Aramis said, and she watched as Joshua filled a small plastic tub with a clear liquid and poured a few drops of something else. Then he opened a package and pulled a new, sterile cloth from inside and placed it in the tub of solution. Joshua pulled the cloth out, rang out excess solution then started the strenuous task of cleaning around all his wounds. The process seemed both relieving yet painful at the same time as he twisted and contorted to get in every possible place on his body. Aramis stepped forward, took the cloth in her hand and helped him with the difficult to reach places. When he was clean, they waited a few minutes for the solution to dry before the started rewrapping his body in new fresh dressing and bandages. Before she wrapped over his nose and mouth, she kissed him deeply and with such passion that she hoped it conveyed how much she truly loved him. When she finally allowed herself to pull away from his lip, she looked him in the eye and uttered,
"Caesar sent me here to kill you."
