Victor of Tucson

Victor felt himself starting to relax a little as they moved away from the crystalline towers of the city center and into more normal-looking buildings with brick and stone facades. Something about being on those glassy streets under the high, shimmering roads, beneath people with godlike power traversing the soaring heights, had made him uncomfortable. Hed felt a kind of primal tension in his chest, a tightening of his muscles, and a fraying of his nerves. He wondered if that was how rabbits felt while a wolf stalked through the meadow. The analogy rankledhe was Quinametzin, and comparing himself to a prey animal was galling, but he couldnt help how hed felt.

Looking back at the tall gleaming towers as they reflected the sun in rainbow shimmers, he could imagine it was a city of the gods, a place mortals werent meant to tread, and something in him believed it. That, more than anything else, illustrated to him that, though he was a big fish in a little pond back on Fanwath, here he was swimming in a vast, dangerous ocean. He let his eyes drift from the glassy towers to the stars visible through the thin atmosphere and shook his head in bewilderment. How is gravity the same? How can we breathe so well? Why arent, I dunno, pinch meteorites or something smashing into this little planet?

I, too, wondered at the physics of it all, Darren said, mouth agape, eyes following the direction of Victors bewildered gaze. Victor nodded, frankly impressed with the guys ability to keep his cool. If Victor felt like prey among those powerful forces, how must that dude feel?

Energy, Lam said, stepping closer to the building so a large, antlered man and the petite woman he escorted could pass by. Its so thick in the air. Cant you feel it? This world must be in the center of a river or ocean of it. I dont know how it works, but Ive heard some worlds are richer with Energy than others. Thats right, isnt it? She looked at Lesh with her question.

Aye, he rumbled. Its denser here than Ive ever felt. I suppose, when Energy is involved, some of the rules of the universe become more like suggestions.

Victor held up the magical glass map hed purchased from the information kiosk. It functioned a lot like a very simple tablet back on Earth. He touched things with his fingers to center the view and could zoom in and out by tapping. The map it displayed was in color and even had a slightly three-dimensional aspect, making it clear how much bigger some buildings were than others. It also had a simple menu, and one of the headings indicated a lot more to the device. This map has a guidebook section. I havent opened it yet, but when we get to a hotel or inn or whatever, we can probably get a lot of our questions answered by looking through it.

Are we close?

Yeah, Victor held the map lower so Valla could see, pointing with his index finger at a section circled in bright pink and labeled, Abundant Lodging. The information clerk had done that for him, showing him how to make annotations to the map with ones finger. It really felt like a high-quality tablet, something the rich kids up in the foothills back home might have in their classrooms.

And the blue dot is us?

Well, the tablet. I guess its connected to some kind of magical network. Victor shrugged.

Valla wrinkled her nose. Network? Like the, what was it, telephones in First Landing?

I think thats probably right, Darren said, nodding. It would seem the people of Sojourn have, once again, illustrated my provincial ignorance. To think I thought we could recapture our dominance away from Earth with a few tanks and bombs. Just standing here, in the shadow of those great towers, I feel the power steeped in them. Can you imagine if someone tried to let off a mundane bomb in there? Those beings could wave a hand and send the explosion away!

Try to stop that, Darren, Valla said, smiling down at the man. Looking at him, watching him frown in confusion, Victor wondered how old he was. Thirties, probably. He looked like hed experienced some living, but he definitely wasnt middle-aged. Victor might think Energy was making him look younger, but he knew the guy hadnt even formed a Core yet, let alone advanced his race somehow.

Stop what, um, Lady Valla? He looked down, as usual, completely unable to lock eyes with Valla for more than a second. Victor wanted to laugh and tease him a little, but he held his tongue, also wondering about Vallas point.

Thinking of how youd attack every new place you come across. Isnt that what got you into trouble back in First Landing? Wasnt a tenet of your political party about dominion? Your people are new to the System and the part of the universe it rules. Domination shouldnt be your primary reason for exploration.

Of course, I suppose, well, yes. Youre right. Darren nodded and closed his mouth, and, once again, Victor had to give him props; it was clear he wanted to explain himself, wanted to make excuses for his outlook, but he was choosing to let it go.

Right. Come on, then. He started across the street, walking on one of the ubiquitous arched pedestrian crossways in the city. There werent traffic lights, but the roads were orderly and safe. The magical and mundane conveyances, from glowing bullet-shaped carriages propelled by Energy to mythical mounts with horns and wings, traversed the city on one-way streets. At the same time, the pedestrians walked on wide, smooth sidewalks and crossed streets overtop the traffic. Most of the intersections were circular, and it seemed there was some unposted law about taking them slowly because he never saw anyone who appeared to be in a hurry. Glancing up at the flying vehicles and winged people and animals, he supposed rushing was left to those with the gift of flight.

Darren seemed to be following his gaze with his own. He spoke up, looking at Lam with his question, Does it make you want to fly?

Hmm? Lam looked at him past Edeya, whose hands they both held.

The people soaring about up there. Wouldnt you rather join them than walk on the ground with us landlubbers?

Landlubber? Lam snorted at the strange word. Is that . . .

A silly word from home, aye. Darren looked at Victor, perhaps hoping for some backup, but Victor just looked at his map, ignoring the conversation. He was warming up to the guy, not exactly despising him anymore, but he didnt want to act like his buddy.

I presume it means someone who cant fly? Lam prodded.

Oh, actually, its meant to be disparaging toward people who dont like to sail the seas. It was a stupid word choice.

Well, back to your question, Lam said, taking pity on the poor man, I wouldnt mind flying a bit, but I cant soar the way Valla and those folks up there can. For now, Im only able to manage short flights. Someday, maybe. She looked up at the sky longingly, and Victor saw something in her eyes that made him give her a double-take. In his mind, Lam had always been Captain Lam, the heroic, powerful, wealthy woman whod bucked the social hierarchies and given Victor a chance to escape injustice. He admired and looked up to her, but here, she had wide, hopeful eyes and seemed younger than hed ever seen her. For some reason, he felt like he had to protect her, and the idea was freaking him out.

They walked for a few minutes, everyone lost in their thoughts or speechless in the wonder of the strange city of Sojourn. Lesh was always quiet, but Victor could see he was also lost in thought, pondering the implications of the place and its people. As they rounded the corner and meandered down a gently sloping sidewalk cobbled with smooth red stones, their destination finally came into view. It was a big park square surrounded by tall, many-storied brick buildings. They were charming in their uniqueness, each building a different shade with slightly different architecture, but they were clearly all hotels.

Welcoming awnings and stylish wooden or metal placards announced them each. He saw names ranging from the Astral Loom Suites to the Prism of Dreams to the Whispering Wyrd Inn and a dozen others, besides. The park wasnt massive, probably only a few acres of grass and thin, willowy trees surrounding a big, white stone fountain with a dozen matching benches at the center. From their vantage on the elevated, approaching street, they could see most of the buildings, the entirety of the park, and the crowds of people meandering about.

Where do the vehicles go? I only see pedestrians, Darren asked.

Looks like theres another road around the back of the square. Lesh pointed to the left down the street. Victor could see he was right; the wagons, carriages, and magical vehicles were all being diverted down a side street, and it was easy to guess that it would turn to parallel the now pedestrian-only roadway approaching the park.

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Any of those inns catch anyones eye? Victor asked, giving Valla a nudge. Shed been quiet, but she was always like that, especially when she wasnt alone with him.

Im partial to the one with the red gables. She pointed, and Victor squinted, trying to read the sign.

Wayward Wanderer Inn?

I think it fits us better than some of those more fanciful names.

Agreed, Lesh said with a note of finality.

Victor shrugged and started forward. Im not gonna argue. I dont care as long as it has big beds and bathtubs.

Yes! With boiling water! Lesh rumbled enthusiastically. Victor laughed, imagining the big guy reclining in a bath of water that would boil the flesh off a human.

I know youve been busy with that map, Victor, but now that weve arrived, would you mind if I search for that place the guide suggested to me? Darren asked, stepping quickly to keep up with everyone elses long strides. Victor looked at him and at Edeya, listlessly walking between him and Lam, and he slowed down.

He turned to Lam. Sorry if Im going too fast. Is this all right for Edeya?

Its probably good for her. I doubt sitting around is healthy for her body.

Okay, good. Uh, yeah, Darren, you can check the map, but wait til we get to the inn. I dont want you to try to walk and read it at the same time. What if you bump into the wrong guy, and he flattens you? Victor was half joking, but he was also quite serious. He could only imagine how dangerous it would be for Darren if the wrong person decided hed done something insulting. Also, I told you Lesh is your buddy while were here, so if you want to check the place out, youll have to work with him.

Of course! Thank you, Victor.

Victor paused and turned to look down at Darren, glowering a little. He appreciated his attitude change and his attempt to be respectful but didnt want a companion acting obsequious all the time. Darren, chill out with that stuff, will you? Im not going to beat you up or anything. Just be yourself; you dont have to kiss my ass.

Darrens eyes widened with dismay, clearly fearing that hed angered Victor despite his words. I didnt mean anything . . .

He knows, Lam said, narrowing her eyes at Victor. Valla tugged at his arm, so Victor turned and continued walking. What was it with everyone? They acted like he was going to kill the guy. As far as he was concerned, after they got to the hotel, Darren was Leshs problem. Hed already told the big dragonkin as much, and Lesh had agreed with such solemn acceptance that Victor had almost taken back the request. It was like hed given out some kind of noble quest, and Lesh was determined to succeed beyond his expectations. Did he feel chaperoning the one-time politician would earn him some points with Victor? How would he feel if he learned Victor didnt really care what happened to the guy? That thought gave him pause. Was it true? Had he grown so heartless?

Victor found himself scowling, feeling kind of irritated with himself as they walked through the hotel's big glass and brass doors. He barely heard the hirsute doorman as he bowed and greeted them, pulling the massive door wide. He slowed his steps, enjoying the dcor of the expansive lobby, and allowed Valla to take the lead, approaching the reception desk. Victor had never been to a fancy hotel on Earth, but he imagined it would look something like this. Marble floors, covered with lush blue carpets intricately patterned in a green floral print, ran through the expansive space to meet walls decked in lavish artworkportraits, display cases filled with crystal and fine plate wear, and hanging tapestries that complemented the carpets. freew ebnov el

Plants hung from the heights, along with the bright, sunny lighting that emanated from high crystal chandeliers, gave warmth and vibrancy to the space. Victor took a deep, cleansing breath and tried to push his stress aside. They had things to accomplish in this placeEdeyas catatonic face was a constant reminder of thatbut that didnt mean they couldnt enjoy themselves while they were at it. A tiny voice in a deep corner of his mind, one hed been repeatedly shoving down since the battle at the volcano, whispered, Should you really enjoy yourself after getting hundreds of people killed?

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Darren hung back with Lam and Edeya while the others spoke to the hotel clerk. He watched Victor staring into space, glowering, while Valla made arrangements for their rooms. He was happy to let them handle things; hed spent most of the fortune hed been hoarding back in First Landing to pay for his travel through the System stone, and though he hadnt said anything, he desperately hoped theyd find alternative means of further travel. Otherwise, hed have to throw himself on Victor and Vallas mercy again.

He wondered what Victor was so tense about. Hed seemed rather surly since Darren had arrived unexpectedly in the Free Marches. Darren had expected him to be annoyed and hadnt been surprised when hed been reticent to allow him to travel with them, but it wasnt just Darren Victor had been short with. Hed seen the faces Lam and Valla made. Lesh, eager to please Victor, wasnt so easy to read. Besides, he scowled almost as much as Victor. No, he wasnt a good indicator of Victors mood.

Darren wondered if it was simply the stress of being responsible for all of them. He had a vague idea that Lam, Valla, and Lesh were far from helpless, but hed seen how they all looked up to Victor back on Fanwath. Was Victor perhaps feeling out of his depth, worried that hed led them all into waters too choppy to swim through? Darren wanted to help but felt like an infant trying to advise nuclear scientists. No, he figured the best thing he could do was get himself out of Victors hair and work on making himself less of a burden.

Lesh stepped away from the counter, holding a shiny brass key. He looked at Darren and said, Come, fosterling, you will stay with me.

I, uh, oh. Very well, thank you, Lesh. The dragon-man narrowed his gold-banded green eyes and grunted, turning back to Victor.

Lord Victor, Ill be ready for your call. Please keep me apprised of the situation. He nodded to Edeya meaningfully and then gestured for Darren to follow him, stepping briskly toward an ornate, wrought-iron and marble stairway.

Darren started to hurry after him, but Victor held up a hand. Wait. Lesh froze, and Darren turned to Victor, unconsciously shrinking inward, flinching as though the giant might smack him. He was relieved to see Victors face in a neutral expression as he held out the glass, notebook-sized map. Use this for now, but dont take it from your room. Im going to want to look through it later. As Darren accepted the magical device, Victor looked at Lesh. If you go anywhere, leave a notice with the desk here. Well do the same.

Lesh nodded, then turned, beckoning for Darren to hurry. Darren clutched the tablet to his chest and hustled after the big warrior, jogging to keep up. When they approached the stairway, Lesh looked at Darren and asked, Have you used a travel stair before?

A, uh, what?

This is a travel stair. It will aid your movement with dimensional magic. You must keep your destination in mind as you step, or youll get lost.

Lost on a stairway?

Exactly. We are on floor seventeen. Think of that number as you climb. With that, the giant turned, lifted his foot to the fourth step, and started up. To Darrens dismay, he vanished from sight after only one more giant step. Darren hurriedly started climbing the steps, picturing a big floating seventeen in his mind, and after three steps, he stumbled onto a landing.

How the hell? He looked around, surprised to find himself facing into a hallway with Lesh striding away from him. He hurried after him, and when they approached a door labeled 1755, Lesh stopped and pushed his key into the lock. The door opened with a click, and they stepped into their suite. Lesh put his fists on his hips and looked around, breathing deeply. He bared his many pointy teeth in a smile. This is a suitable space.

Their hotel room must have been constructed with heavy use of dimensional magic. The ceiling soared some thirty meters overhead, and windows the size of tennis courts lined the far wall, providing an expansive view of the hotel square and park. Half a dozen couches were arrayed before the windows and the big, free-standing circular fireplace. A large kitchen lined one side of the room, and doorways to the bedroom suites were on the other. All in all, it was decorated much like the lobby, with deep shades of blue and dark, polished wood. It was luxurious on a level Darren had seldom seen, and on a scale hed never encountered. Amazing, he breathed, stepping into the massive space, savoring the thick carpeting as his feet sank into it.

Elder, Lesh said, catching him by surprise.

Im sorry?

You need not apologize. Now you know; do not fail to use the honorific in the future when we are in mixed company. Lesh brushed past him toward the windows, and Darren stared at him, confused for several seconds before it clicked; back in the lobby, hed scowled when Darren called him Lesh. He expected him to call him Elder?

Um, do you mean I should always call you Elder, or do I say Elder Lesh?

Either will do, fosterling.

You, uh, Elder Lesh, you know Im an adult human, right?

Regardless. You are as helpless as a hatchling, and Ive taken you into my protection. You are my fosterling, and you will address me with the proper show of respect. Something in Darren wanted to balk at the idea, wanted to argue, but another part of him felt admiration and gratitude for the giant, black-scaled man. Calling Darren a fosterling was going a lot further than Victor had demanded. If Victor were the most powerful person in their party, Lesh would probably be second, though Darren wasnt sure of that; Valla was also an unknown entity. The point was that Lesh was a powerhouse, and if he was willing to foster Darren, that was a win in his eyes.

Thank you, Elder. At his words, Lesh folded his arms over his chest and nodded solemnly, still staring out the window.

Good. Now, fosterling, you will contact the man at the front desk and ask that the furniture in this suite be stored away. We have no use for it. A bath and a dry floor are all men such as we require.

Oh, Darren looked around the room at the comfortable, luxurious furniture. He supposed sleeping on the floor wouldnt be so awful; at least they were well-carpeted. Ill do that right away, Elder.

Yes, Lesh nodded, his black, reptilian lips curving into a slow smile. A large cave with a good view will benefit our outlook. Look out there, fosterling. Look at those people, at those buildings, at the stars beyond. See what there is within your grasp and be filled with inspiration. Think of the man who changed your life and took you in, assigning you to me. Think of how you will work to impress him and make him glad that you exist. That is our mission here, in this great cityto grow stronger so that we might aid Victor in his quests. Through his victories, we will have our own.

Updat𝓮d from 𝑓𝓇ℯℯ𝑤ℯ𝘣𝓃𝑜𝘷ℯ𝑙.𝑐𝑜𝑚