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/
Caelus had always prided himself on staying in peak physical condition. Being a trailblazer demanded it—constant workouts, a diet that leaned toward healthy, and an unyielding commitment to keeping his body in prime shape.
His life was a whirlwind of favors and errands, each one more taxing than the last, but he had always managed to balance it all. That is, as long as he found a moment or two to rest in between.
But here in Yakarich, rest had become a luxury.
The villagers, cautious and slow to trust, had quickly realized how invaluable an extra pair of hands could be. Every day brought a fresh set of demands, each more pressing than the last.
"Oi, Caelus! We could do with some more firewood!" a grizzled elder called out, his voice as rough as the bark Caelus was meant to chop.
"Hey Caelus, can you help us hold this beam up? We're a man short!" A burly carpenter gestured urgently, sweat glistening on his brow as he struggled with the heavy timber.
"Caelus, if you could, please deliver this to the young lady a few doors down? I owed her a favor for last time." An older woman, her hands full of yarn, passed him a small bundle, her eyes pleading.
And so it went, day in and day out, one task bleeding into the next.
The last few weeks in the village had been nothing short of a whirlwind.
From the crack of dawn until the last light faded from the sky, Caelus found himself darting from one crisis to another, just barely arriving in time to avert disaster. Whether it was splitting wood, lifting beams, or delivering messages, he played his part with quiet efficiency.
In return, the villagers' attitudes began to shift. Suspicion had slowly given way to a grudging respect, and before long, he had become something of a local hero—a fixer of problems, the man who always willing to do what was needed of him.
But not everyone was so easily won over. The village guards, supposedly trained by the Silvermane Guard yet lacking their discipline, remained aloof towards him. Chief among them was Tobias, a stern-faced man who seemed determined to view Caelus as a threat, no matter how many favors he did for the others. Tobias's scowl was as permanent as the snow covering the village, a reminder that acceptance here was far from universal.
Still, for every Tobias, there were a dozen others who welcomed him – especially the children. They adored him, their laughter ringing out like the purest of chimes whenever he joined their games. He had lost count of the number of snowmen he had helped build, or the snowball fights he had enthusiastically thrown—more often than not aiming to miss, just to let the kids bask in the glory of victory.
The days in Yakarich were exhausting, relentless, but they were also filled with moments that warmed Caelus's heart, even as the winter chill bit his bones. Every time a villager called out his name, whether in need or in thanks, he knew that he had found something precious here—a place where he belonged, even if only for a while.
Stepping into the warmth of the elderly couple's cottage, Caelus was immediately enveloped by the rich, spiced aroma of fresh cider bubbling away on the hearth. From where she stood, Iyanka gave him a brief, amused glance before returning to her brewing. Her better half, posited in his favorite chair by the fire, let out a booming laugh that seemed to rattle the very rafters.
"Lost again, eh?" Lev teased, his eyes twinkling with mirth.
Caelus grumbled as he shrugged off the thick coat that one of the villagers had practically shoved onto him earlier during an errand. He tossed it over the back of a chair before flopping down into the seat opposite Lev, exhaustion weighing down his every movement. "If you even want to call it that," he muttered, rubbing the back of his neck. "Still, it's better than them running at the mere sight of me."
Things had changed for sure, but he could still recall the cold reception he'd received upon his arrival in the village. The memories were still sharp—how the villagers had eyed him with suspicion, whispering behind his back or, worse, openly avoiding him. Some had even tried to have him arrested by the guards.
That had been unpleasant, sure, but what truly stung was the way the children had screamed in terror at the sight of him, their innocent fear piercing him deeper than any blade.
His thoughts were interrupted as something warm pressed gently against his cheek. He turned to find Iyanka standing beside him, a steaming cup of cider in hand. She offered it to him with a wry smile, her eyes filled with a motherly kindness. "Children are products of their environment, boy," she said gently, her voice carrying the weight of years. "If their elders feared ye at first, it's only natural the little ones would follow."
"Aye, but you didn't let it break you," Lev chimed in, leaning forward with a nod of approval. His hands, rough and calloused from years of hard work, clasped together as he spoke. "Lesser folk would've curled in on themselves and shut out the world."
Caelus took the cup from Iyanka and brought it to his lips, savoring the way the piping hot liquid seared his tongue before warming him from the inside out. After a day spent in the biting cold, the flavorful burn was welcome. "That wouldn't have done me or anyone else any good," he remarked, a slight smile playing at the corners of his mouth.
"True enough!" Lev chortled proudly. "You're a tougher lad than most, and it shows. Now the little ones can't get enough of ya! Mark my words, you'll have their folks jealous of ye before long!"
It had taken days of hard labor and effort, but the villagers had warmed to him considerably, and that was enough for now.
Even Abram, a hulking man who rarely spoke more than a grunt initially, had extended an invitation to join tomorrow's hunting party—a prospect that Caelus had eagerly accepted. Running errands around the village was all well and good, but it didn't compare to the sense of purpose that came from truly contributing to the village's survival.
Besides, learning to hunt in these frigid, unforgiving lands was a skill that would serve him well going forward. While his phone still worked and he could use it for various tasks, whipping out such advanced technology in front of the villagers was bound to raise eyebrows.
No, it was better to learn the old-fashioned way—by trudging through snowdrifts with seasoned hunters who knew these lands like the back of their weathered hands.
Caelus stared into the fire, watching the flames dance and flicker, his mind already on both the day ahead and beyond. Trekking halfway across the planet to Belobog would be no small feat, but with every lesson he learned from these villagers, it meant his chances of getting there would only increase. And who better to teach him than those who had carved out a life in this harsh world.
"Speaking of which..." Caelus began, leaning forward in his chair. "Lev, have you ever been part of the hunting party?"
The old man's brow furrowed as he adopted a thoughtful expression. "Sad to say, spry as I was, I made my contributions to the village in more… subtle ways," Lev replied, a tinge of regret in his voice.
Caelus felt a pang of disappointment but kept his expression neutral. "But me Pa was, and so was Mum—a match made in heaven, I'd say!" Lev added with a hearty laugh, the kind that came from deep within his belly.
Caelus blinked, caught off guard by the sudden turn in the conversation. Before he could muster a response, Iyanka swatted Lev on the back of the head with a sharp thwap.
"The lad has no business hearing about how you were conceived, you old troll," she scolded, her voice carrying a mix of affection and exasperation. She folded her arms, casting a withering look at her husband. "And if I recall correctly, you were part of the hunting party—for a single day, before they had to drag you back after you fainted at the mere sight of Grim Fang."
Lev's face flushed a deep crimson, and he slumped into the cushions as if trying to disappear into the sofa. Iyanka's relentless teasing filled the room, her eyes glinting with mischief.
"Grim Fang?" Caelus repeated, curiosity piqued as he looked at Lev. "Is that some sort of local legend?"
Lev cleared his throat, trying to regain some semblance of dignity. "Oh, it's no legend—it's a living nightmare," he began, his tone grave. "Grim Fang is the alpha of those blister fangs you fought before. That beast has haunted these lands longer than I've been alive, and no one's ever managed to bring it down. Some folks even believe it's a guardian spirit, if you can believe such nonsense."
"No one's ever succeeded, huh..." Caelus mused, his mind already wandering as to the possibilities. What if...?
Lev's eyes narrowed, his voice taking on a stern edge. "Now, lad, I know that look o' yours. Take some free advice: don't even think about it. Grim Fang isn't like those pups you tossed around earlier. It's a legend for a reason, and I'd rather not see you become history yourself, got it?"
Caelus felt a twinge of guilt as he muttered, "Sorry..."
"Lay off the poor boy, Lev," Iyanka stepped in. "Every young hunter dreams of being the one to finally slay that beast. He's none different."
"So, is becoming a hunter a sort of rite of passage here?" Caelus asked, genuinely curious. It might explain why everyone in the village still referred to him as "boy" despite his age.
"Not officially," Iyanka replied, her voice warm with nostalgia, "but you could call it that. Every youth, once they reach a certain age, is taken into the wastes to test their mettle. It helps determine their path in life, whether it be as a hunter, a craftsman, or something else entirely. Lev and I went through the same trials."
Caelus's eyes widened in surprise. "Wait, you were part of the hunting party?"
Iyanka's smile turned smug, and she jutted her chin out proudly. "Aye, and to this day, the menfolk know better than to brag too loudly when I'm around. Climbing, fishing, hiking—you name it, I was unmatched."
"Certainly humble, isn't she?" Lev snickered, dodging a playful swat from his wife this time around.
"It's not boasting if it's true," Iyanka stated, though her smile softened as she turned her attention back to Caelus. "And if it helps ease the lad's nerves, I'll boast as much as needed."
Caelus grimaced, his discomfort evident. It was uncanny how perceptive the old woman was, or perhaps he was just terrible at hiding his emotions. "I'd be lying if I said I wasn't nervous. I mean… what if I screw up?"
"Worried about disappointing folks, eh?" Iyanka deduced, her gaze softening as Caelus nodded. She sighed, her tone gentle yet firm. "Lad, we might be rough around the edges, but we don't cast off our own just because they stumble. Life out here isn't like the capital, where folks live with silver spoons in their mouths. We make use of everyone, regardless of their role. Maybe you won't become a hunter, and that's fine. What matters is that you never lose that fire in your belly."
Her words washed over him like a soothing balm, dispelling the cloud of doubt that had begun to settle in his mind. "You don't have to worry about that," Caelus assured her, his resolve hardening.
"Then there's nothing left to fret over," Iyanka said, smiling proudly. "Except getting some rest. Dawn is when the party sets out, and you'll be up with it. Last thing you need is for the others to rib you for not getting enough shuteye."
"No need to tell me twice," Caelus chuckled, rising from his chair. "Good night, you two."
With that, he headed for the small room that had been dubbed his, shutting the door behind him with a sigh of relief. The warmth of the hearth still clung to him, but it was the warmth of Lev and Iyanka's hospitality that truly comforted him. Hard to believe I feel so at ease in a stranger's home, but they make it hard not to.
Lev's easygoing nature and Iyanka's no-nonsense attitude had been a constant source of support since his arrival. They had taken him in without hesitation, asking little in return other than his word.
I'll do that and more, Caelus vowed, clenching his fists. I can't stay here forever… but I'll make damn sure these people are better off when I leave.
A yawn overtook him, pulling his mouth wide open as his body demanded rest.
"Alright," he murmured to himself, crawling into bed. "Best get some sleep before Iyanka breaks down the door in a few hours."
First light crept over the snow-covered rooftops of Yakarich, casting long shadows across the village as Caelus was unceremoniously shoved out the door by his caretakers. Clad in the thick coat that had become like a second skin, and with a pair of hand-me-down gloves that Lev had insisted he take, Caelus set off toward the edge of town. His boots crunched over the frosty ground, returning the few early-morning waves from villagers with a nod, his eyes fixed on the dark tree line that marked the boundary of the village.
Just as he was about to cross the threshold, a voice called out from behind, breaking the quiet morning air. "H-hey, wait up!"
Caelus turned just in time to see a young man, dressed similarly and roughly his age, sprinting to catch up. The young man skidded to a halt in front of him, bent over and panting heavily, his breath misting in the chilly air. "I thought—it was—you—I saw—back there," he managed between gasps.
"Cutting it a little close, aren't we, Borini?" Caelus teased, a grin tugging at the corner of his mouth. "Sleeping in isn't exactly healthy, you know."
Borini shot him a mock glare, still catching his breath. "You're—one to—talk, Caelus," he retorted, his words punctuated by deep breaths, sucking in a big one before adding, "Weren't you supposed to wake me up this time?"
Caelus stilled, mentally kicking himself. He had promised to do that yesterday, didn't he. "Uh… my bad?"
Borini huffed, crossing his arms with a pout that made him look more like a sulking child than a young man. "A little apology isn't going to cut it. You know what I want."
Caelus rolled his eyes, already knowing where this was headed. "Fine, here. But I need it back."
Borini's eyes lit up with childlike excitement as he all but snatched the phone from Caelus's hand. Normally, Caelus would have been more guarded about letting anyone handle his phone, especially someone he didn't know well. But Borini had since earned his trust, even before he'd saved Caelus's skin back in the forest.
Fortunately, Borini wasn't interested in the contents of the phone, which had been Caelus's initial concern. Instead, the young man was fascinated by the device's technology, marveling at its sleek design and the various apps it housed. In private, Borini had even convinced Caelus to activate some of the apps, including Findie—a decision Caelus still regretted, especially given how the drone's chirpy voice grated on his nerves.
"You trailblazers get all the cool stuff!" Borini whined, turning the phone over in his hands. "It's so unfair! My phone can barely get a signal in the village, let alone do all these other things. Are you sure you don't want me to—?"
"No, Borini," Caelus cut him off, snatching his phone back and sliding it back into his pocket with a protective motion.
Borini pouted, but his eyes sparkled with mischief. "Fine. I'll just have to find another way to get a look at it."
Caelus narrowed his eyes at him, suspicion evident in his gaze. "So, was all that about me not waking you just an excuse to get your hands on my phone?"
"Who, me? Perish the thought, my friend!" the black-haired villager replied, his tone dripping with exaggerated innocence, though the glint in his eyes told a different story. It wouldn't have been the first time, after all. That was just Borini's way—always scheming, always playing the part of the affable rogue.
Still, Caelus couldn't help but chuckle. "You do remember where the party's supposed to meet up, right?"
Borini scoffed, puffing out his chest in mock offense. "Come now, Caelus! Do you doubt someone of my impeccable character?"
"Yes," Caelus replied flatly, struggling to keep a straight face as Borini's expression shifted to one of mock hurt.
"I'm kidding," he added with a laugh. "Lead the way, oh vaunted explorer."
Borini grumbled good-naturedly as he turned and began marching toward the forest, trying to maintain an air of dignity, but the smile on his face gave him away. Caelus found himself smiling in return, falling into step beside him.
Compared to the other villagers, Borini was a breath of fresh air.
He didn't take himself too seriously and was easy to get along with, much like Lev, but with a more mischievous streak. Caelus recalled their first meeting, when Borini had spun a grand tale of how he'd heroically saved Caelus's life, making it sound like an epic adventure fraught with peril. And Caelus might have believed it, too, if Iyanka hadn't promptly pointed out that Borini had essentially just dumped Caelus onto a sleigh and dragged him back to the village.
The guy reminded Caelus of Sampo in some ways, especially with his knack for being both charming and conniving, all while acting like your best friend.
Still, Caelus mused as they headed into the forest, he's more tolerable than Tobias at least.
The trees closed in around them, their bare branches reaching out like skeletal fingers, and the sounds of the village gradually faded into the distance.
The forest greeted Caelus and Borini like an ancient, living entity, its presence both majestic and foreboding. The path they followed was faint, barely more than a trail carved through the undergrowth by countless feet over the years. It wound its way through the forest, weaving between ancient trees and over small, frozen streams that glistened like glass. The ground beneath the snow was uneven, forcing them to navigate carefully to avoid slipping on hidden roots or rocks.
Towering pines, their dark needles dusted with snow, stretched toward the pale morning sky, their trunks thick and gnarled with age. The trees stood in solemn ranks, their silence broken only by the occasional creak of wood, or the soft rustle of branches stirred by an icy breeze. Icicles hung from the lower branches like crystal daggers, glinting in the weak light filtering through the canopy above. Every now and then, a clump of snow would fall from a tree, landing with a muffled thud, the sound almost swallowed by the vast stillness.
The air was crisp, biting at their exposed skin, and every breath they took seemed to freeze in their lungs before puffing out in white clouds. Their boots crunched through the fresh snow, each step sinking slightly into the pristine blanket that covered the ground.
As they ventured deeper into the woods, the shadows lengthened, and the light grew dimmer. The trees seemed to close in around them, their branches interlocking overhead to form a dense, natural roof that blocked out much of the sky.
Borini, ever the chatterbox, had fallen into a rare silence, his usual playful demeanor replaced by a quiet focus. As an explorer, he moved with an ease born of familiarity, his steps sure and confident as he led the way. Occasionally, he would glance back at Caelus, offering a grin or a reassuring nod. Caelus had little choice but to trust the man's word, following him dutifully without complaint.
After what felt like hours, they began to hear the distant murmur of voices carried on in the wind—the first sign that they were nearing the hunters' camp. The scent of smoke reached them next, faint but unmistakable, mingling with the earthy smells of the forest. The path widened slightly, and the trees thinned out, allowing more light to filter through.
Finally, they emerged into a small clearing, where the camp had been set up. A ring of low, sturdy tents encircled a central fire pit, where a roaring fire crackled and spat, sending sparks spiraling into the air. Around the fire, a group of hunters were gathered, their faces illuminated by the warm glow, their breath mingling with the smoke as they spoke in low, murmured tones. The ground here was trampled and packed down, the snow stained with mud and ash, evidence of the many comings and goings of the camp's inhabitants.
The hunters glanced up as they stepped into the perimeter, eyeing them for a tense moment before returning to whatever they had been doing save for one. It was Abram that rose up from the gathering and strode toward them, covering the distance in a few long steps.
"Frost hasn't claimed you," he offered as a greeting.
"Not this day, old man," Borini returned with a playful salute. "Besides, haven't you ever heard the saying 'save the best for last'?"
The hunters around the campfire barely concealed their amusement as Borini, ever the jester, continued his antics. Eyes rolled, but there was a shared chuckle here and there—his humor did its job, thawing the tension in the chilly morning air. "Right, keep that energy up, lad," one of the older hunters quipped, a grin tugging at the corners of his mouth. "You'll need it, since you're on point today."
"W-what?" Borini's face fell, his earlier bravado crumbling into genuine shock as the reality of his assignment set in. His protests were met with more laughter, the sound rising into the crisp air, mixing with the crackle of the fire and the rustling of the surrounding trees.
While Borini bemoaned his fate, Caelus took the opportunity to quietly observe the group.
The hunters were a rough-and-ready bunch, each one draped in thick, weathered furs, though each set bore distinct variations—different patterns on their clothes, or draped with the fur of beasts they had slain. Their weapons, a decidedly primitive assortment of axes, clubs, even some bows and arrows, were strapped to their backs or rested within easy reach, glinting with the readiness of seasoned warriors. There were some familiar articles though such as a few Silvermane-issue rifles and halberds that were arrayed on a rack nearby.
As he studied them, Caelus noticed that they were doing the same to him. Each hunter cast a brief, assessing glance in his direction, sizing him up before returning to their preparations. It was the kind of scrutiny that made him acutely aware of every detail—the stiffness of his gloves, the unfamiliar weight of the fur on his shoulders, the way his breath misted in the air, betraying his unease.
Finding a stump on the edge of the clearing, Caelus sat down, trying to blend into the background as much as possible. He let out a slow, frosty breath, his gaze drifting toward the campfire where the others gathered. The warmth of the flames was a sharp contrast to the cold, but it did little to ease the tension coiling in his chest.
Absently, he nearly called forth his trusty bat. The urge to feel its reassuring weight, to know that it was there if needed, was strong.
But he stopped himself.
Manifesting a weapon so out of place in this world would only serve to deepen the gulf between him and these people—people he desperately needed to fit in with, at least for now. There was no way to know if any of these hunters were path striders like himself. For all his eccentricities, Borini didn't seem to be an exception, but who could say for sure?
So instead, he clasped his hands together, letting the rough leather of his gloves remind him where he was and why he was here. The world around him was one of wood and iron, of ancient traditions and primal instincts. His presence was an anomaly, and he needed to tread carefully, to learn their ways and earn their trust so that he could carry on with his journey.
The hunt would test him, not just in skill, but in his ability to adapt, to become one with these people and their world. And for now, that meant playing the part of an eager, if slightly nervous, apprentice—nothing more, nothing less.
He sighed.
It could be worse, really. At least out here he didn't have to worry about-
"Is our little slice of paradise too dull for you, outsider? I happen to know of a lovely little cottage if you're interested."
Speak of the devil.
Caelus cast a gaze up at the gray sky, inwardly cursing his luck. He didn't need to turn around to know who had spoken; the smug tone was unmistakable.
Sure enough, Tobias was lounging nearby, leaning against one of the tents with that infuriating smirk plastered on his face. The man seemed to materialize out of thin air whenever Caelus least wanted to see him. It was almost impressive how relentless he was. Almost.
Of course he'd be here. Why wouldn't he be? Tobias had been shadowing his every move since the day they'd met, suspicion etched into every glance. It was as if the guard had made it his personal mission to uncover the dark truth behind Caelus, to catch him in some imagined wrongdoing.
"Isn't it boring, tailing me all the time?" Caelus shot back, one eyebrow arching in challenge.
Tobias's smirk only deepened, his eyes narrowing as he pushed off the tent and took a step closer. "Someone has to keep an eye on you. You might've fooled the others, but you won't fool me. Sooner or later, you'll slip up and reveal your true nature."
True nature? Caelus thought, barely containing a snort of disbelief. Was this guy serious? The accusation was so absurd it almost didn't deserve a response.
"Right. Well, when that happens, make sure you capture the moment for me. I'm curious to see it myself."
For a moment, Tobias was taken aback, his smirk faltering as if he hadn't expected Caelus to shrug off his "threat" so easily. But the surprise was quickly replaced by a darker expression, his eyes hardening with barely concealed contempt. "Joke all you want, outsider," he hissed, his voice low and menacing as he stormed up to Caelus. "Your wit won't save you from the fangs, or the Corroded."
Up close, Caelus could easily admit that Tobias was certainly bigger than him. The man had obviously carved out an existence by working his body nonstop to survive in conditions like this. Such differences in stature might've intimidated anyone else, but Caelus merely met his glare with an unbothered smile. "Seems to have worked so far. I think my luck will hold out – how about yours?"
Tobias's face twisted with anger, his hand clenching around the hilt of his weapon. "YOU—!"
"TOBIAS!" Abram's voice boomed across the camp, cutting through the tension like a blade. The hulking hunter was striding toward them, his expression a mix of authority and irritation. "If you have time to bother the outsider, you have time to prep your gear. I don't want to see you freezing up out there if your weapon jams."
Tobias's glare lingered on Caelus for a moment longer, his jaw tight with frustration. Then, with a final scoff, he turned on his heel and stormed off toward Abram, his movements stiff with barely suppressed rage. As he walked away, he cast several more hostile glances over his shoulder, each one filled with venom.
In response, Caelus simply waved back with a small, infuriatingly calm grin, knowing full well it would only rile him up further.
When Tobias finally disappeared into the throng of hunters, Caelus let out a slow breath, the knot of tension in his chest finally loosening. Dealing with Tobias was like walking on a knife's edge, but at least for now, he had managed to avoid a more serious confrontation. If things had come to blows just then, he might've had no choice but to reveal his potential. He could only hope that the hunt would keep the man too occupied to continue his relentless pursuit of some nonexistent secret.
"Upsetting Toby again? One has to wonder what you did to the poor guy."
Caelus shrugged nonchalantly. "Just existing, I suppose."
Borini chuckled, shaking his head with an amused smile. "I see. Don't suppose you could tone that down any?" He grinned as Caelus gave him a playful shove, barely managing to knock him off balance. "In all seriousness, though, this is the first time I've seen him so up in arms towards someone. You must be something special."
"He dislikes me because I'm not from around here—what's so hard to understand?" Caelus replied, shifting uncomfortably on the log he was perched on. "He's not the first person I've ever clashed with, and he won't be the last."
"Good mindset to have, even if it's a bit pessimistic," Borini agreed with a nod. "Toby's always been a bit hardheaded, so don't take it too personally."
"As long as he doesn't follow through on those threats of his, I won't need to," Caelus delivered calmly.
Borini barked out a laugh, clapping a gloved hand on Caelus's shoulder. "If all outsiders are even a shred like you, I'll have to find a way to get to the stars myself."
Before Caelus could respond to that, Abram's voice cut through the air like a whip. "Oi, you lot! Get over here and listen up. I don't want to go through this a second time!" He waved them over with an impatient gesture.
Caelus followed Borini to where the rest of the hunters were gathering, taking a seat among the heavily armed group. Tobias's glare was a constant presence, but Caelus ignored it, focusing on Abram. The seasoned hunter was eyeing him, his gaze sharp and appraising.
"Boy. Where's your weapon?" Abram's voice was gruff, demanding an answer.
Before Caelus could even begin to think of an excuse, Borini jumped in with a grin. "Maybe it got stolen by the little ones he was playing with. Poor Caelus here really can't do anything when outnumbered like that."
A few of the hunters snorted with amusement, though others remained suspicious.
Caelus shot Borini a sideways questioning glance, noting the subtle thumbs-up his friend gave him.
At least I have a cover story, he thought with a shrug.
Abram, however, wasn't amused. He just grunted, his expression stern. "If you expect this to be some sightseeing trip, best head back to town. I'm not paid to be a babysitter."
"We get paid?!" one of the hunters exclaimed, his tone dripping with mock surprise. The group erupted into laughter, the tension easing slightly.
Even Abram cracked a thin smile before turning his stern gaze back on Caelus. "Point stands, lad: either figure something out or get gone."
Caelus's eyes traveled over to the weapon rack nearby, his eyes settling on a rugged rifle. It was more worn than the sleek firearms used by the Silvermane Guard, but it was still a gun. He'd never fired one before, but he had always wanted to try—especially since Bronya had never let him touch hers. "Could I use one of those?" he asked, nodding toward the rack.
Abram's gaze darted briefly in that direction before settling back on him with a raised eyebrow. "Are you even trained to use it?"
"How hard could it be?" Caelus retorted, trying to sound more confident than he felt.
There were some snickers to his immediate right, leaving him puzzled.
"I say we let the outsider try. Who knows? It might be a good experience for him."
Caelus eyed Tobias with suspicion, but shrugged it off.
If Tobias of all people is all for it, who am I to argue?
He caught Borini's devious smile out of the corner of his eye, which only served to unnerve him further—he wasn't the only one either.
Getting the feeling I'm the punchline to a joke here…
Pushing that thought aside, Caelus retrieved the rifle, marveling briefly at its weight compared to the weapons he was used to. It felt solid in his hands, a far cry from the lightweight, futuristic gear he usually wielded.
"Just so you know, boy—if you lose that, you lose lunch," Abram warned, his voice stern.
Caelus stiffened slightly at the seriousness in the older man's tone but nodded all the same.
Satisfied, Abram turned back to the group, his eyes sweeping over the other hunters. "Let's get moving. I want our haul to be first in line for the butchers for today's feast. Borini, you're on point—now."
"Coming…" Borini muttered, giving Caelus one last playful grin before heading to the front of the group.
Caelus followed, rifle in hand, feeling a mixture of anticipation and apprehension.
It's just another weapon, he told himself, gripping the rifle tightly in his hands. If I can use something as big as Alisa Rand's lance, how hard could a gun be?
The group fell in line behind Borini, their footsteps crunching through the snow as they left the camp. Caelus lingered at the rear, hefting the rifle awkwardly in his arms as he tried to keep pace.
During the initial trek, he hadn't had much time to truly take in his surroundings, but now, with the group moving at a more deliberate pace, he found himself spellbound by the stark beauty of the forest. Even the dead trees, stripped of life, added to the haunting atmosphere, their skeletal forms standing as solemn sentinels in the winter landscape. Snow fell gently around them, blanketing the ground in a soft, unbroken layer of white. In the distance, the towering peaks of mountains loomed, their jagged edges cutting into the pale sky.
No wonder Lynx wanted to be an explorer, Caelus thought, feeling a newfound appreciation for the world he found himself in.
"Everyone, down!" Abram's sharp whisper cut through the quiet, snapping Caelus out of his reverie. He dropped to a crouch, nearly fumbling the rifle in his haste but managing to settle down just the same. The forest, which had seemed so peaceful moments ago, now felt alive with tension. The only sound was the faint rustle of branches and the muffled crunch of footsteps from somewhere ahead.
A creature soon came into view, moving with the cautious grace of a wild animal. It resembled the Ebony Deer Caelus had once fought on the Luofu, but this one was untouched by the corruption of the Abundance.
It was a native of Jarilo-VI, perfectly adapted to the harsh climate. Thick, gray fur covered its body, and a set of majestic horns sprouted from its head, their tips adorned with delicate icicles that glistened in the cold light. The creature paused, its breath misting in the frigid air, before lowering its head to sift through the snow, likely searching for food hidden beneath the frozen surface.
Caelus watched, entranced by the creature's simple elegance. But his attention was soon drawn to one of the hunters, who was stealthily crawling forward, his movements deliberate and controlled.
"Alek, you have a shot?" Abram asked in hushed tones.
"Clean sights," the hunter replied, presumably Alek, his tone calm and focused.
"Take it then."
The crack of the rifle shot shattered the stillness, reverberating through the forest like a thunderclap. Caelus couldn't suppress a startled flinch, the sound so sudden and violent that it left his heart pounding in his chest. The quiet that followed was deafening, the forest holding its breath in the wake of the shot.
A low groan reached Caelus's ears, and his gaze snapped back to where the deer had been. The creature was no longer standing; it lay crumpled in the snow, its body still and lifeless. Despite knowing this was the purpose of their hunt, a pang of sorrow twisted in his chest at the sight. The deer had been so full of life just moments ago, its presence a fleeting glimpse of the wild, untamed beauty of this world. Now, it was nothing more than a lifeless form in the snow.
"Let's go," Abram ordered, breaking the silence as he and Alek stood and moved up.
"Alek's been practicing," one of the hunters commented with a nod of approval.
"Eh, not bad, but nowhere near as good as mine," another teased, his voice light, trying to ease the somber mood.
Caelus let their quiet chattering wash over him, his gaze lingering on the fallen creature. He knew this was the way of the world, a necessary part of survival in such harsh conditions. But that knowledge did little to lessen the sense of loss he felt at the death of something so majestic.
The murmurs among the hunters grew as Abram and Alik approached the fallen beast, its blood already staining the snow a deep crimson. The two men crouched down beside the lifeless body, drawing short, sharp knives that they plunged into the creature's hide, beginning the process of field dressing it.
Caelus turned away, his breath hitching in his throat as he struggled to keep his composure. The sight was too much—too raw and visceral—and a quiet gasp escaped him before he could stifle it.
"Squeamish, are we?" Tobias's voice, dripping with mockery, came from nearby. He lay nearby with a smug grin plastered across his face. Caelus shot him a glare, but it only seemed to encourage him. "If you want to be a hunter, you'd better get used to it. Or feel free to leave and show everyone just how spineless you really are."
Caelus's fists clenched at his sides, his anger simmering just below the surface.
Before he could respond, a sudden cascade of snow fell onto Tobias's back, sending a shiver through the man and eliciting a sharp curse. "What the hell, Borini?!"
Borini stood a few feet away, arms crossed and a deadpan expression on his face. "Abram's been calling for you," he said flatly, jerking a thumb in the direction of their leader. "I wouldn't keep him waiting if I were you."
Tobias muttered another curse under his breath before storming off, leaving Caelus to watch his retreat with narrowed eyes.
"Don't let him get under your skin like that," Borini cautioned as he crouched down next to Caelus. His tone was lighter, almost reassuring. "Toby's all bark and no bite. Not worth the trouble, trust me."
Caelus sighed, the tension slowly ebbing away before he noticed something. "…I didn't hear Abram calling for him."
A sly grin spread across Borini's face. "Neither did I."
It took a moment for Caelus to catch on, but when he did, the tension in his chest gave way to a relieved chuckle. "Thanks for that."
"I'll take my usual fee later." His expression then sobered, and he gave Caelus a long, considering look. "Serious question: you don't seem like the rough-and-tumble type like the rest of them. What are you trying to prove out here?"
Caelus paused, the question striking a chord. Why indeed? He had already established himself as useful to the village in other ways—there was no real need to prove himself as a hunter.
All of it had been just as excuse.
"You know I can't stick around here forever," Caelus admitted, his voice tinged with resignation.
"Aye," Borini nodded, his gaze understanding.
"And those apps might be handy, but I can't use them around other people. They already think I'm strange enough; if I pulled out some high-tech gadget, they'd probably call me a demon or something."
"After they've drawn and quartered you, that is," Borini added with a grim chuckle, earning a startled look from Caelus. "But I get it. If you're planning to leave, you'll need to know how to survive on your own."
Caelus nodded, a somber understanding passing between them.
Borini sighed, then gestured toward the rifle in Caelus's hands. "Grab that and come with me. The sooner you learn how to handle yourself, the better—and the first thing you'll need to know is how to carry it properly."
Borini took the rifle from Caelus's grasp, adjusted the strap, and helped him sling it over his shoulder so that the muzzle was pointed safely upwards. The weight distributed evenly across Caelus's back, freeing up his hands and making the weapon easier to manage.
"For someone who doesn't use them, you seem to know your way around these," Caelus noted, adjusting to the new weight on his shoulder.
"You can blame my Pa for that," Borini replied with a shrug. "From the moment I could stand, he had a rifle in my hands. Taught me everything he knew—to the point where I could clean that thing blindfolded."
Caelus winced in sympathy. "Sounds rough."
"Aye, it was," Borini agreed. "But I understand now that skills like that are necessary to survive in this world, as you'll soon find out. Come on, I know a few good spots where we can try our luck."
"Won't it seem strange if we break off on our own like this?"
"To whom?" Borini gestured behind them. Caelus followed his gaze and was surprised to find that most of the other hunters had already dispersed, leaving only Alek, Abram, and Tobias, who was now wrestling with the elk's bloody pelt. "This is how it usually goes with these types. Without an alpha, the pack splinters. Now let's move before Abram has us helping Tobias."
Caelus didn't need any more encouragement, and quickly fell in step beside Borini, following him deeper into the forest.
So last chapter, I forgot to mention a few things.
Blisterfangs are my own personal creation as a way to add some flavor to the wildflife of Jarilo-VI. They're vicious, relentless wolf-like predators that operate in packs. We'll be seeing quite a bit of them going forward along with some other creatures I've yet to reveal. The name itself might feel a bit tacky but I tried to make it in line as much as possible with Hoyo's naming conventions. You can decide whether it's cringe or not.
The Corroded are what the Belobogians refer to as those born from the Fragmentum and those taken by it. Yes, the Fragmentum can infect others in this story though it usually only happens if one sustains an injury from them, or via some other means. I went this angle to sort of make sense of the Fragmentum monsters taking the form of humans in-game. If the lore behind this is bogus and there's a more reasonable explanation in canon, please let me know so I can amend it. That way we can relegate this as the village's belief and not as a standard going forward.
We'll be stuck in Yakarich for a little bit until certain events come to pass so get cozy. This all might seem like filler but rest assured that this sequence is crucial to developing Caelus's mindset and motivations going forward.
Also, Tobias being a little shit and Borini being a bro. Hope these two came across ok as characters.
Till then,
Take care.