Apologies for the wait. I'll explain further down below.
A little on the shorter side this time but bear with me (at least to me). I'm still getting back into the swing of it.
Also, this story has officially surpassed 40 favorites and just a little over as many follows. Thank you all for giving this story your attention, and hope you will drop a few reviews going forward.
Note at the end, let's begin.
Read, review, enjoy.
Honkai Star Rail is property of Hoyoverse. I own nothing.
"dialogue"
"call"
system
:text:
"altered"
"mental conversation"
"flashback"
SOUND EFFECT
/dream/
When Caelus next awoke, the first thing he noted was that he was still breathing—painfully so. Each breath sent a wave of agony pulsing through his body, threatening to curl him into a fetal position. The second was that his surroundings had changed dramatically.
The unforgiving tundra had been replaced by a cozy, unfamiliar little room though it was far from the standards of the Gothe Hotel. It was spartan, with only a bed, a dresser against the wall, and a small table nestled near a window.
Caelus lay there for a moment, staring at the ceiling as if it held the answers to his predicament. He started to reach for his head but stopped, letting his arm flop back down as a sharp pain shot through his body. He hissed, writhing for a moment until the pain subsided. "Okay, okay, bad idea."
Pain, however uncomfortable, was a reminder that he was alive. Between the Fragmentum's hellish denizens and those wolves, he could have easily perished if someone hadn't brought him here.
But he couldn't just lie there forever—he needed to find out where he was and, if possible, get some help to reach Belobog.
He was in no shape for such a journey. Basic movement alone was a test.
Best take it slow, he decided, maneuvering out of bed.
A quick survey of the room found his coat hanging on a chair by the table. His phone was also there; even if it was useless for contacting anyone, it still gave him access to his gear. He powered on the home screen just to be safe, a feeling a wave of relief when he saw it light up.
He gingerly slipped on his coat, bearing in mind the wounds on his back which,, surprisingly, had been bandaged tightly.
At least his saviors weren't heartless maniacs.
He thought about looking outside to get a better idea of where he was, but night made that impossible, save for a few beams of light across the way, which momentarily lifted his spirits.
Had he made it? Was this the village he had hoped to find? Maybe even Belobog itself?
The urge to check his phone's connection again reared its head, but he managed to push the notion aside. If someone had put him up here, it would be better to ask them directly.
Hopefully, they're not asleep, he thought, turning towards the door and checking to see if it was locked. It wasn't, but as he pushed it open, an awful creak echoed through the night air.
"Sure, just let everyone know why don't you?" he cursed under his breath, deciding not to shut the door back.
Each step was punctuated with a bolt of pain that seeped into his very soul, threatening to bring him to his knees. If just a claw wound from one of those creatures was this bad, he dreaded what something worse would've done...
Why did I encounter them only now? If they were part of the Fragmentum, why didn't I see them before?
The longer he found himself here, the more questions plagued him with few answers forthcoming.
Shaking his head, Caelus pressed on until he reached the stairs, staring warily down towards the floor below. As he made to head down, a pair of unfamiliar voices caught his ears. He strained to pick out their words, only managing to catch the tail end of their conversation.
"…idea how he got out that far. Lad was lucky Borini came across him when he did. A few more hours like that and he would've been food for the beasts."
"But what was he doing there in the first place? While I by no means believe he should have been left out there, the boy is clearly not a local – his clothes are a dead giveaway."
"Well, he isn't corroded, so there's no point handing him over to the guards."
Corroded? What did they mean by that? Did it have something to do with those creatures he fought?
So lost in his thoughts, he continued downward, until his foot landed on a particular step-
CREEEEAK!
The floorboard beneath him let out an awful groan, louder than the door. The chatter below ceased immediately.
Caelus flushed and grimaced in equal measure.
Let it be known that he was not proficient in the art of stealth whatsoever.
"Oi, you can come down now!"
Not wanting to risk agitating his caretakers, Caelus gingerly made his way down the remainder of the stairs, finding an elderly man and woman watching him with a mixture of surprise and caution. "S-sorry for the commotion," he stammered, beads of sweat forming behind his head. "But thank you for not handing me over to the guards."
The two merely exchanged a look with each other, seemingly holding a silent conversation before the old man sighed. "Eavesdropping is a bad habit, lad. Why don't you sit for a spell, and we can introduce ourselves. Iyanka, fetch the boy some cider – should do to bring some color back to those cheeks."
"Only because you asked nicely," the old woman shot back snidely, but still shuffled off towards what Caelus presumed was the kitchen.
He made his way to the arrangement of chairs near a roaring fireplace, lowering himself into one with a relieved sigh. Despite its rustic design, the chair was quite comfy, and the residual heat from the fire felt blissful.
"So then," the old man said, toddling over to stand before him with a tired yet friendly smile, "why don't you tell us what you were doing out there in the Hollow? I'm tempted to call ya a damned fool for being so far out, but I feel I might be wasting my breath."
Caelus flushed at the rebuke, only to jump as a mug of something warm and sweet-smelling was held out to him by the old woman—Iyanka, if he remembered right.
"Lev, the boy hasn't been awake five minutes – let him collect himself," Iyanka scolded gently.
Caelus took the mug with a grateful nod, chancing a sip before yanking it back from his lips, "Ah, hot!" he hissed, much to the old man's amusement.
"Has to be if we're to get any kind of warmth here, lad," the man chortled, earning a whap upside the head from Iyanka.
"Behave you old coot. We have company."
Lev just grinned back unrepentantly.
Their little quarrel helped to ease some of the tension that had been brewing, allowing Caelus to relax a bit. "Thank you both for taking me in. I hope I didn't cause too much trouble," he said with a bow of his head for good measure.
"I think you've had your fill of that for one day, boy. Though I suppose calling you that will grow stale soon enough. You got a name?" Iyanka asked, eyeing him with suspicion.
"Caelus. If you don't mind me asking, where am I? Is this Belobog?"
It was an innocent enough guess, one that had the two exchanging a wild-eyed glance before bursting into laughter, which soon turned into coughing fits given their age.
"B-Belobog?! Lad, does our little hovel look anything close to something as grand as the Everwinter City?" Lev exclaimed, supporting himself on a nearby chair.
Iyanka, however, recovered quicker than the old man. "Hold on – how exactly do you know of Belobog, young'un? Only we Belobogians would know of the capital, and you don't look like one."
As if doused with cold water, Caelus stilled.
How much could he tell them? If the truth came out, they might throw him out – or worse.
But if they already think I'm not from around here… maybe the obvious reason will work. If Belobog exists, then space travel isn't too farfetched, right?
"You're right, I'm not from here," he confessed, making sure he had their attention before going on. "I'm an explorer, actually—a trailblazer. I've been visiting various places in the universe and stumbled upon this world, which had somehow been removed from galactic records. But when I tried to land, a fierce storm caused my ship to crash near one of the peaks. I hoped to find my way to Belobog to get my ship repaired, but I stumbled into some of those beasts you mentioned. And that's where I am now."
Coming up with a story like that on the spot was no small feat, but he'd picked up a few tricks during his travels – likely in part to Sampo's influence. Even so, it was half-baked at best and Caelus hoped the old couple wouldn't look too deeply into any inconsistencies.
Fortunately for him, they seemed to be giving his words serious thought. "I'm sorry for intruding, but if there's any way you can help me get to Belobog, I would greatly appreciate it."
Lev sighed, lowering himself into the seat across from Caelus. "Well, lad, that's some tale. Given your luck, it's no surprise you ended up here of all places. But I'm afraid we can't do much to improve your situation neither."
A knot of dread began to form in Caelus's stomach. "What do you mean? Is Belobog far?"
"Far isn't the issue, boy," Iyanka interjected, shaking her head. "Getting to the capital is a challenge in itself, but the real crux is to get through the Mane Line."
"The Mane Line?" Caelus echoed, confused.
"Aye, she means the Silvermane Guard frontline," Lev explained, causing Caelus's eyes to widen. The old man chuckled ruefully. "Can't blame ya for being surprised—you crash-landed in the middle of a war that's been going on for centuries. Ever since the Freeze took hold, we've been fighting back those hellspawns from the Fragmentum, and only just. Cut off from the rest of the galaxy, we've been left to fend for ourselves. The fact that we and the other villages have held out this long is a miracle, even with the Guard stepping in from time to time."
Caelus chewed on that information, mulling it over.
The mere fact there were other settlements besides Belobog was astonishing. When the Express arrived, Belobog was the sole remaining bastion. If there were still people living out here, then the Fragmentum hadn't spread too far yet.
Which begged the question—not where, but when was he?
He waved that thought aside for the time being. If he started asking too many questions, he really would come off as suspicious – more so than he already was. For right now, they thought of him as some greenhorn explorer that got stranded here. A cover like that would serve him for the time being.
Even so, he couldn't easily ignore the niggling feeling of curiosity scraping at his thoughts.
"I don't understand. If things are so desperate, why haven't these villages been evacuated to Belobog?"
"Evacuate?" Lev spat derisively. "Lad, life might be tough here, but this is our home. I've raised three generations in this hut, and I ain't leaving it behind just to become some spawning pool for the Corroded."
That word again. "About that… just what are the Corroded?"
Lev sighed deeply, leaning back into his chair with a frown. "That lad is a tricky question to answer. Its meaning varies but to folks like us, they're our enemies—what the Fragmentum sends to wipe us out."
"It's much worse than that," Iyanka added, disgust flavoring her tone. "Those in the Guard are equipped to handle them, but we are not. Facing those monsters is suicidal if you haven't trained for it and even then, your chances of survival aren't generous. That's why when we saw your wounds, some thought it best to leave you out there—the Fragmentum corrodes all it touches, and humans are no exception."
That explained what he overheard earlier. They thought he was infected with the Fragmentum and would soon become one of its ranks. It would explain why the Guard held such morbid thoughts—it was essentially a death sentence.
And there were ruptures throughout Belobog back then, he recalled with mounting horror. That's why those sections were abandoned.
"Then… why take me in if you thought I was already a goner?"
"Normally, anyone who contracts the corrosion shows signs quickly," Iyanka explained, seating herself beside Lev. "Every case we've seen, the afflicted become irrationally aggressive and start sporting growths all across their bodies. But with you, it was different—all you had were a few nasty gashes."
"Maybe it's some kind of vaccine that trailblazers get," Lev suggested, earning a look from his wife.
"Somehow I doubt that."
Caelus wisely kept his mouth shut on the matter. He could venture the real reason, but if he told them, they might very well toss him out or hand him over to the guards. "Whatever the case, I'm glad you found me."
"Ah, it wasn't me—these bones don't work like they used to. Borini found you, so he's the one you oughta thank," Lev stated with a wave of his hand.
"I'd love to meet him."
"I'm sure, but right now, we need to figure out what to do with you. Sending you off like this doesn't sit right, especially since you're still recovering."
"Not that you'd have much chance if we did; even if ye made it far in your condition, getting through the Mane Line would be like sending ye off to war," Iyanka added darkly. "The guards are conscripting everyone, and no offense, but a soldier is not the look I have of ya."
And I'm not keen on getting dragged into a war either…
"How about this?" Lev suddenly said with a grin. "Have dinner with us and sleep on it. We were just about to eat, and some company would be right for a change."
"Oh, I don't want to impose—" Caelus began, but Iyanka cut him off.
"It was our decision to take you in, boy. You should show a little gratitude and enjoy some good old-fashioned Belobogian cuisine," she said, offering a wry smile. "Or are you trailblazers too good for this old woman's cooking?"
Now Caelus may have been somewhat dim when it came to certain situations, but even he knew denying a woman's food meant certain death. "D-don't worry, I'm famished!"
Seeing him panic, Lev snickered. "Ah lad, you need not fear this old biddy. Her claws aren't as sharp as they used to be."
"Is that really the statement you're going with, dear?" Iyanka asked calmly, a sudden threatening aura radiating from her, making both Caelus and Lev shrink back in fright.
"I-I didn't say anything, I swear!" the old man spluttered, as Iyanka went to tend to the food.
Mental note: don't piss her off.
But it didn't look like they'd be throwing him to the wolves so soon, so he could at least relax a bit there. "I'm really grateful to you both. I'll find a way to repay your kindness, I swear," Caelus asserted, looking Lev in the eye.
Lev studied him for a moment before a grin bloomed across his weathered cheeks. "Aye, I believe you will. But we'll deal with that come morn. Now let's eat."
The next day arrived far too quickly for Caelus' liking, heralded by the abrupt entrance of Iyanka into what had become "his" room. She marched in with all the subtlety of a storm, yanking the sheets from his body in one swift motion, leaving him exposed to the crisp morning air that nipped at his skin.
"Up and at 'em, boy! Get yourself dressed. You'll be meeting the Chief this morning," she declared, her tone brooking no argument.
"The Chief?" Caelus echoed groggily, dragging himself out of bed. He reached for his coat, still draped over the nearby chair, rubbing the sleep from his eyes all the while.
"Aye. Any questions you have, best save them for him. Now hop to it!"
Suppressing a sigh, Caelus moved to put on his shoes, but something felt off. They seemed unusually roomy. He lifted them to inspect, and his eyes went wide in shock. "What the—?!"
"Oi, what's got you in such a—guardian's bulwark, boy! What did you do to these!?" Iyanka's shrill voice cut through the room as she snatched the shoes from him, all but falling apart in her hands.
Both of his sneakers had gaping holes burned through the soles, likely the result of his rough landing back then. They were completely ruined, barely held together by frayed threads. There mere fact they hadn't disintegrated on the spot during his arduous trek the day before was a miracle in itself.
Before he could stammer out some half-baked excuse, Iyanka stode over to the dresser in the corner, rummaging through it with a string of curses in what he presumed to be Belobogian. Not a moment later, she emerged with a pair of worn-looking boots in hand, which she tossed his way. Caelus just barely caught them.
"Those should do until we can get ones more your size."
"C-can I really wear these? Don't they belong to someone?" he asked hesitantly, turning the boots over in his hands.
"Aye—they belonged to me firstborn," Iyanka admitted, her voice softening just a fraction. Caelus flinched at the weight of her words, prompting the woman to hold up a gloved hand. "No need to pale, child. He's long since gone his own path with his own family. Now, hurry up and get those on."
She left the room shortly after, allowing him some privacy. The boots were snug compared to his sneakers, but as soon as his feet slipped into them, the cold air lost its bite. "Well, I did want to get boots when I got back," he muttered with a faint chuckle, but the thought was short-lived as reality came crashing back down on him.
He still had no idea how he was going to get home. The knowledge that Belobog existed offered a glimmer of hope, but it was a distant dream at this point. Getting there without getting caught up in the Silvermane Guard's war would be difficult at best.
"Oi, lad, get a move on! The Chief isn't one to keep waiting!" Lev's voice bellowed from outside.
One thing at a time, Caelus, he reminded himself, tying the boots tightly before hurrying after the elders.
Having spent considerable time exploring Jarilo-VI back home, Caelus had seen countless dilapidated husks—once homes, now crumbling relics of a forgotten past, slowly succumbing to the frozen wastes. He often wondered what life had been like before these structures were reduced to ruins. But now, with Lev and Iyanka leading the way, he was seeing it firsthand.
The village of Yakarich, as he'd learned it was called, bustled with life, albeit at a pace that seemed almost lethargic, as if the Eternal Freeze weren't threatening to engulf them at any moment.
Yakarich was a place that seemed frozen in time, clinging to life on the edge of the Eternal Freeze. The village was nestled in a narrow valley, its snow-covered roofs peeking out from the undulating white blanket that stretched as far as the eye could see. The surrounding mountains, towering like silent sentinels, loomed over the village, their jagged peaks perpetually dusted with snow, catching the faint light of a pale sun that barely rose above the horizon.
The village itself was a cluster of weathered wooden buildings, each structure appearing as if it had been hewn directly from the bones of the earth. The wood, darkened and worn by countless winters, bore the scars of time, with deep grooves and cracks running along the walls. Despite their age, the houses stood resilient, their pitched roofs sloping steeply to shed the weight of the heavy snow that regularly blanketed them.
The narrow, winding streets of Yakarich were lined with uneven cobblestones, partially buried under a layer of ice and snow. Each step on these treacherous paths required caution, as the ice made footing precarious. The air was thick with the smell of burning wood, a scent that permeated the entire village, mingling with the crisp, biting cold that stung the skin.
Villagers shuffled from place to place with little urgency, their routines eerily reminiscent of Boulder Town. Patrons haggled over prices at makeshift stalls, offering everything from freshly cut firewood to simple, handwoven garments. The goods were sparse, a testament to the harshness of life in this remote part of the world.
Excited children chased each other through the narrow streets, swathed in thick bundles of clothing that did little to restrain their innocent bliss.
It was peaceful—in a bleak sort of way.
And yet, there was a rugged beauty to Yakarich. The village was a testament to human endurance, a small pocket of life holding out against the relentless encroachment of the Freeze. Here, life was a constant struggle, but it was life nonetheless, and that in itself was a triumph.
It was sobering to realize that countless villages like this one were buried under snow and ice by the time the Express had arrived.
"Oi, lad, quit spacing out and keep up," Iyanka's sharp voice cut through his glum musings, snapping him back to reality.
"Sorry!"
As they made their way through the village, Caelus's presence could no longer be rightly ignored. Many of the townsfolk stopped what they were doing to gawk at him, their expressions ranging from shock and surprise at best to outright suspicion at worst.
He couldn't fault them for it; his attire alone was a glaring reminder that he was vastly different than the rest of them. Compared to the warm, dull-colored garbs they wore, his casual wear made him seem almost alien.
Yes, their reactions were understandable but even so, he couldn't help but be tense as some of the guards took notice of him. Though not as heavily armored as those among the Silvermane Guard, they watched him with all the intensity of those soldiers, hefting the various weapons in their possession. He forced himself to smile back, if only to show he wasn't blind to their reactions.
Lev and Iyanka led him to the far end of the village, where a large longhouse dominated the landscape, a larger and more imposing structure than the others. It was surrounded by a sturdy wooden palisade, with tall watchtowers at each corner, manned by vigilant guards armed with rifles. The longhouse itself was adorned with intricately carved wooden totems, the symbols meshing until they formed a story entirely their own.
A quick glance behind revealed a growing crowd of curious villagers trailing after them, eager to see what fate awaited the mysterious outsider.
"Hey, Tobias! Frost been nipping at you, I see," Lev called out, startling the trio of guards posted at the main gate, each armed with halberds.
Of the three, a young man with sandy blond hair poking out from under a ushanka hat turned to regard them, his eyebrows shooting into his hairline. "Lev? You hardly come to this part of town anymore, and Iyanka too? What's the d—?" The guard, presumably Tobias, cut himself off as his eyes landed on Caelus, his halberd rising in a threatening manner. "Why is this outsider here?"
Caelus opened his mouth to explain, but Lev beat him to it. "This young'un was brought in by Borini last evening—take it up with him if you want the details. But we've brought him here to meet with the Chief."
Tobias scoffed. "What business would the Chief have with an outsider like him? How he's not doubled over from the cold in those clothes is beyond me."
Murmurs of discontent rippled through the crowd, making Caelus grimace.
"Aye, and that's why the Chief needs to see him," Lev replied, his hands clasped behind his back. "The lad might look like a string bean, but the old gal and I think he might be worth something."
"Is that so?" Tobias sneered, turning his cold gaze back on Caelus. "And what about you then? You must be made of stern stuff to withstand this climate without so much as a shudder. Not many are so used to our world's weather as ye; if I didn't know better, I'd say you were showing early signs of corrosion."
That single word nearly sent the crowd into a frenzy, forcing the other guards to bark out calls for order.
"That's quite enough, boy," Iyanka cut in, stepping forward with a glare that could freeze water. "We sent word to the Chief for a meeting, and you're holding us up. Out of the way unless you want to explain to him why we're late for it."
Tobias bristled at the rebuke but was quickly pulled aside by one of his comrades before another argument could break out. "Fine. But know that if he steps out of line once, we'll deal with him."
Caelus could feel the weight of every gaze on him—villagers and guards alike—as though he were some sort of new lifeform. A hand on his shoulder brought him back to reality, finding Lev offering him a reassuring grin.
"Chin up, lad. One needs thick skin out here, or he'll be torn to shreds by the pack," the old man said, patting him on the back.
He's right, Caelus thought, squaring his shoulders. I've faced worse than this. Just gotta keep my cool.
A sharp whistle from one of the guards signaled the gate to swing inward, permitting them entry into the courtyard. Caelus followed his supporters toward the longhouse, its heavy door creaking open before them.
"Come on, boy. In you go, and keep your mouth shut until we get things squared," Iyanka instructed sternly.
The moment Caelus stepped through the heavy wooden door he was enveloped by a wave of heat emanating from two massive stone fireplaces positioned on either side of the room. These hearths, each large enough to fit several people within their wide, open mouths, crackled with roaring fires that filled the room with a comforting, amber glow.
The walls of the longhouse were constructed from thick, rough-hewn logs, their surfaces polished smooth by years of exposure to the elements and countless hands brushing against them. These logs were interspersed with wooden beams, the ceiling being supported by these sturdy beams, arched high above, giving the room an almost cathedral-like atmosphere.
Lining the walls were long, heavy wooden tables, each laden with the remnants of previous meals—wooden bowls, goblets, and platters stained with the juices of roasted meats and hearty stews. The smell of freshly cooked food hung in the air, rich and savory, making Caelus' stomach growl involuntarily. A table to one side still bore an untouched feast: slabs of roasted meat glistening with fat, loaves of crusty bread, and bowls brimming with hearty nutrients and steaming broth.
At the far end of the chamber, the focal point of the room, was the Chief's throne, elevated on a small dais. The throne was a rough, imposing structure, carved from a single massive block of dark wood, its surface adorned with deep carvings of snarling wolves, perhaps based on the same ones he'd fought earlier. Thick furs were draped over the seat, offering a measure of comfort to the one who occupied it.
The Chief himself sat with a commanding presence, his broad shoulders cloaked in heavy, fur-lined robes. A thick black beard covered the lower half of the man's face, though there were flecks of gray that could be seen here and there. The fur gloves on his hands were well-worn, their edges frayed from use, but they did nothing to soften the impression of raw power that emanated from the man.
Around the room, the villagers had gathered, their faces illuminated by the firelight. Some stood, arms crossed, whispering amongst themselves, while others sat at the tables, their eyes fixed on the newcomers. Their expressions ranged from curiosity to suspicion, but all shared a hardened look, the mark of people who had seen much and survived more.
The idle chatter in the chamber died down to a sudden silence as the Chief's piercing gaze landed on the trio—though mostly on Caelus. It took every ounce of willpower not to flinch under the weight of those stares.
"Come forth," the Chief's low, booming voice commanded them.
Lev gestured to Caelus to join them as they climbed the dais where the Chief sat, his eyes quietly observing them. When the Chief's eyes met his, Caelus couldn't help but be reminded of Jing Yuan—except this man hadn't graced them with even a single smile.
"There are many matters that require my attention, so it would be prudent not to waste my time," the Chief said gruffly, giving Caelus a quick once-over. "I take it this is the rumored outsider that Borini brought in."
"Aye, Chief. This young lad here has quite the story to tell, and I'm sure it won't be a waste to hear it," Iyanka stated, glancing at Caelus.
"Very well then—what is your name and purpose here, boy? And speak quickly. I have little patience to spare."
Swallowing his nerves, Caelus recounted the story he had told Lev and Iyanka. As he spoke, he noticed murmurs among those present, the word "corrosion" being tossed around more times than he was comfortable with. But fortunately, no one challenged his account.
The Chief listened in silence, resting his chin on a fur-gloved hand that seemed to dwarf his face. Idly, Caelus wondered if this man was somehow related to Chief Oleg, but the thought vanished as he finished his tale.
"…and that's how I ended up here, sir. Had it not been for your people, I could've perished out there. You have my sincere thanks."
"Gratitude is worthless from word of mouth alone," the Chief stated bluntly. "This village and its people do not get by on mere words, but by action. If you are grateful towards us, then show it through hard work."
"You want to put him to work?" Iyanka's gasped, her eyes widened. "He's still recovering—!"
"-from a wound inflicted by the fangs," the Chief interrupted calmly, silencing the room. "Borini has a habit of running his mouth, it seems, and all words eventually find their way back to me. Tell me, boy, are you aware of what we do to those who come into contact with the corrosion?"
It was a loaded question, designed to throw him off-guard. Had he not already dealt with Tobias's hostility at the entrance, it might have succeeded.
"The corroded are to be put down as soon as possible," Caelus answered, his gaze locked firmly on the Chief's. "I understand why. The Fragmentum corrodes all it touches, and humans are no exception. Anyone afflicted could harm many before they are stopped."
The Chief nodded in approval. "Then you should understand why—"
"But I'm not corroded."
A few gathered let out gasps, more so murmured amongst themselves.
The Chief's visage darkened, his coal-black eyes narrowing skeptically. "And make leads you to believe such, boy?"
It was taking Caelus all he had not to wither under the man's gaze. "If I were corroded, Lev and Iyanka wouldn't be here, would they? The corroded succumb to irrational violence against anything after being afflicted."
It was a bold gamble. Using the only supporters he had as leverage was risky, and the Chief could easily dismiss his claim if he chose to.
But Caelus's instincts had saved him many times before – both back home and even here – and now they urged him to take the plunge.
He chanced a quick glance at Lev and Iyanka and was surprised to find Lev grinning proudly, while Iyanka gave him a wan smile of approval. They were backing his play.
The Chief's voice cut through his thoughts, demanding his attention. "For an outsider, you place a lot of trust in those you've just met. Some would call that the height of foolishness, perhaps even gullibility. Good men have been led astray by such notions, often to their end."
"You're right, sir," Caelus admitted. "But it would also be foolish to save an outsider like me for no reason other than to get rid of him. And if that were the case, why tell me about the corroded at all? Why not let me walk to my doom ignorantly?" With a grateful glance at Lev and Iyanka, he continued, "It's because the people of this village aren't monsters—the real ones are out there, killing and maiming as we speak. I'm not here to do that—please believe that if nothing else."
The Chief stroked his beard thoughtfully, studying him for several long, tense moments before a strange sound filled the room—a low rumble that soon turned into a booming laugh. "Boy, you certainly are bold to take such risks. Though looking at you now, I can tell you are not merely some green explorer," the Chief admitted, causing Caelus to panic briefly. Had he been found out? "Regardless, your words ring true. Therefore, by my word as Yakarich's chieftain, I permit you to remain here, provided you pull your weight."
Caelus could barely keep himself from sagging with relief, Lev's steady hand on his shoulder the only thing keeping him upright. "T-thank you, sir," he breathed, bowing his head a few times. "I promise you won't regret this."
"Oh, I doubt you'll disappoint me, considering you'll have not just my eyes, but those of the entire village on you now," the Chief pointed out with a toothy grin. "For now, I'll leave you in Lev and Iyanka's hands. There's plenty of work to be done, boy, and I feel you will play a crucial role in the days to come."
Everything became a blur after that. Amid the crowd's questions and curious whispers, two firm hands guided him through the chaos until they were back outside. The frigid air was a balm to his frayed nerves, and a nervous chuckle escaped his lips. For a moment, he'd thought the Chief would order his execution right then and there.
I scraped by this time, Caelus thought. Now I have to make sure I don't disappoint him… ah, wait!
"Listen, about what I said back there, I'm sorry—"
"Lad, shut it," Lev said, cutting him off. But the old man's grin was wide and proud. "Words like that aren't needed. You took a gamble, and it paid off—I ain't offended, and neither is this old biddy."
Iyanka harrumphed at her husband's words, but her smile betrayed her true feelings. "And I'm with this codger, too," she agreed, ignoring Lev's exaggerated squawk of protest. "That said, don't expect things to go so smoothly next time. And if you really believe yourself fit to work, don't expect me to let you slack off. A man should stand by his words, after all."
These two, rough around the edges as they were, had been nothing but kind to him, and he owed them more than just words. Not paying them back, even slightly, felt like a sin.
Besides, staying here could only benefit him. He had no allies in this world save for the old couple. Any goodwill he could gain would go a long way when he started asking about getting to Belobog.
"Just point me to where I'm needed. I'll do it all."
"Aye, that's a good a mindset to have," Lev said with an approving nod. "Now, with all that seriousness out of the way – I say this calls for a feast!"
"You just want to eat is all," Iyanka deadpanned.
"Not true at all! The lad's hungry too, ain't ye?"
Caelus's stomach answered for him, already enticed by the smell still emanating from the longhouse. "I wouldn't say no to some grub."
"See!"
"Great, now I have two of them to worry about," Iyanka muttered but led the way back all the same, Lev needling her playfully all the way.
Caelus followed dutifully behind them, chuckling at their antics.
He still wanted to head out to Belobog as soon as possible, but if he had to stick around and lend a hand, he wouldn't complain. An extra hand around here could do a world of good for these people anywhow.
I'll definitely make myself useful here. Just wait for me everyone, I'll get back as soon as I can.
/sigh/
So, last week we had a death in the family and it couldn't have happened to someone less deserving. Now I've been to more than my fair share of funerals in the last few years, but they were all people who had already lived their lives and were ready for it.
But not a baby. I never even met him, and yet it felt like my heart was being ripped out seeing an infant in a casket. I may have lost a bit of my innocence over the years, but you have to be a heartless bastard to not feel something seeing that.
Needless to say, this messed me up for a bit. Couldn't find it in myself to sit down and write something up until now, and I admit this one is pretty lackluster all things considered.
So, onto the story. I am obviously taking a few creative liberties here since Jarilo-VI is pretty much a blank canvas. I was purposefully vague with some terms here like corroded and the Mane Line, but I'll expand on those soon.
And now... everything from this point on is where I really start to play with the setting. Next chapter might take a bit so please bear with me. I'll be sure to deliver something you can sink your teeth into.
Till then,
take care.