FSE

Furry search engine

formerly SoFurry search engine

Virtually Real Chapter 73: The Great European Desert

I had that wrong feeling again. It was like a pain in my chest. And another new feeling. One that made me want to hurt Jordan. That feeling created another one. It was a trapped feeling like I made an error and I couldn't escape.

It didn't help that Jordan hadn't reacted when I used his name in front of Rider. Was it possible that using names wasn't forbidden? Maybe it was me Jordan didn't trust? And that thought caused the bad pain to get worse.

I'd finished checking the floor we were on and I moved down to the next level. Pain, that's what I was feeling. Just not the same as physical pain. Jordan had treated me like I didn't matter and it hurt me and made me angry. That was what I was feeling. But why was I feeling that way?

There had to be more. Something I just wasn't able to comprehend yet. If I couldn't focus on it then my mind couldn't put a word to it. Once named I could understand. Like all the knowledge was there it was just locked away. As I continued checking every room I focused on the sinking feeling.

As I started to descend again it came to me. It was guilt. I felt guilty for lashing out at Jordan because my mission was to protect him. But how could that be my mission if I had been in that tank longer than he'd been alive? No my mission was definitely to protect him, and Rider as well. That made even less sense.

I stopped trying to figure things out when I came to a fortified door. Something in my programed memories told me what I needed was on the other side. It also gave me the knowledge of where to place plasma shots to melt the three metal rods holding it shut.

***

I dropped three large bags on the floor while Rider just stared at me.

"What is all that?" He asked.

"The artifacts you were hoping for." I sat down and opened the first bag. I pulled out a box of bullets and placed it in front of me slightly to the left. I continued until I had multiple stacks in three different types. I opened a box of the hand gun rounds. Rider slid back away from me.

"Those are dangerous. They can explode at any time."

I pulled one out. It was heavily corroded. "Yeah, some of them are pretty bad.” I set the bad shell to the side and continued. Rider stared until I'd gone through the whole box. Only five rounds were what I would consider to be salvageable I set them in another pile and carefully checked the bad ones again just in case. One might have been okay, but I decided to err on the side of caution. I set the now refilled holder to one side and opened the next box.

"You're going to go through all of those?"

"Yes, so you might as well get some rest. You saved me out there earlier so you are now under my protection as well. I'll give my life before I allow any harm to come to you. Now get some rest."

"I . . . I wasn't trying to imply that I didn't trust you. I'm just more worried you won't wake us if there is danger that you believe you can deal with on your own."

I thought about his theory for a few moments. "No, there are too many possibilities that cannot be accounted for. I would need to wake you in the event I failed and you needed to escape. Do not worry, if there is any danger I will wake you."

He nodded then curled up next to Jordan. I felt something but I didn't want to analyses it. Buried as we were the room was colder than outside and Jordan would benefit from the warmth. I put my feelings aside and continued checking each round.

***

I pushed the first bag aside. I'd filled it with the unusable shells and the hand gun parts. I'd been able to rebuild two pistols that would be functional. Since I had my revolver and my plasma blaster I'd give them to Jordan. He'd likely still use his bow for most encounters, since the pistols only had four clips of eight rounds with three extra bullets. I'd also put together an assault rifle. And a single sniper rifle. I'd start on the rifle ammo next then finish up with the sniper ammo. I'd have liked to have given Rider a shotgun but none of that ammo was salvageable. There was also less munitions than I expected. Either the facility was a small precinct or it had all been used or moved to another location.

"How long have you been awake?"

I glanced at Rider. "Since he woke me up just before we met you." I replied, gesturing at Jordan.

"You didn't wake Jordan to take a shift?"

"No, I'm busy."

"Did you eat or drink anything?"

I thought about it. "I had a small drink when we arrived."

Rider looked at a small device. "You've been awake for more than two days with only a sip of water? I don't care if you are some sort of super weapon you still need water, food, and sleep in that order. Eat this." He tossed me a dried piece of meat. "Then take a proper swallow of water and get to sleep. I'll take watch."

"But-"

”This stuff will still be here when you wake up."

I continued sorting as I ate the meat. He was right I did need those things. Still I wasn’t thirsty or tired. I guessed it was due to something in the tube. Maybe, like my mind, my body was just starting to require such things. After all the dried meat seemed to be something my body had been craving even if I hadn’t known it.

"What exactly are you doing?" Rider asked, interrupting my thoughts.

”Inspecting each bullet to be sure they are safe to use."

"And this pile?"

"They might be safe but I don’t want to risk it. So I’m going to remove the actual bullet from the casing. When we get to our destination I'll find someone that can make a mold of them. After that you can make copies to use in your musket. The bullet shape will improve accuracy over using a ball. I'll also instruct the blacksmith how to rifle the barrels in order to give the bullet spin to increase speed and accuracy. Considering what you're facing out there you need every little advantage you can get."

"Now that you've eaten. Take a drink of water." Rider insisted.

I wanted to refuse, but he was right I would need the hydration. I took the needed drink. It was warm and tasted bad, though I was sure it wasn’t poisonous. Still the sip I took from Jordan’s supply had tasted better.

"Now go curl up where I was. He needs as much rest or more than you do considering how he pushed himself to get out to you. No one does something like that unless they know they’ll find something of value."

"I wouldn't know about that. I just know that he woke me up and my mission is to protect something. With no other reference I've chosen to protect Jordan and you."

"Me? I'm a scavenger. I'm not worth-"

"You saved my life. That is all I need to extend my protection to you."

I got as close to Jordan as I could. As my body seemed to shut down I nearly panicked, but Jordan mumbled in his steep and actually pulled my arm tightly around himself. I fell asleep trying to analyze why I felt happy but the thought would just double back that it was because I was happy.

***

I inhaled and slowly let it out pulling the trigger as I did. The sniper round slammed into the side of the sleeping rex. It seemed I'd missed the heart as he woke and roared in pain. I ran back inside the building. I'd found an underground tunnel that led me to the taller structure and I'd set up a sniping position on the roof with the sniper rifle. I'd only found a single salvageable round and I'd hoped to get a kill shot with it. I was running down the stairs when the impact hit.

It seemed I'd pissed him off that was for sure. The entire structure shook. I reached the point that was now the ground level I glanced through the window and wished I hadn't. The rex was literally tearing through the structure to get to me. I kept running. I hit the lowest level threw myself through the door into the tunnel and locked it shut. Not that it would do much good if he got this far. I watched as the ceiling shook and started to crack.

I was running again. The tunnel wasn't long but I knew what was coming and it was more dangerous than the rex. I was climbing the stairs back up when Rider stopped me. Everything started shaking and then everything just stopped.

"What did you do?"

"I shot one of the rexes. He came after me. I ran and the building collapsed on him."

"Is he dead?"

"I hope so. If he survived we're not going to. I'm going to use my plasma rifle to take out the other one and hopefully the kill pack will be more interested in the free meal than hunting us."

"What is going on?" Jordan yelled at us.

"Your weapon here thinks he killed one of the rexes." Rider replied.

"Prowl, we need to discuss these things first." Jordan yelled, as he ran down the stairs.

I just hung my head. I didn't like this feeling. Especially now that I could name it. Guilt wasn't an emotion I wanted to know about. "I understand."

We headed back to the room we'd been using just as the building shook slightly.

"I think that last rex is trying to get in." Rider whispered.

"We don't have much time then." Jordan added. “Gather your things we need to leave."

"I guess this means my time as bait has arrived." Rider sighed.

"Rider, watch." I picked up the rifle. Slid one of the three clips into place and then chambered a round. “I was able to salvage two clips of ammo thirty rounds in the first one and twenty one in the second. This switch is the safety. And this selector allows you to choose one shot per trigger pull or three. Use it sparingly."

"That isn't going to do much to the rex." He replied.

"It's not intended for him. It's to keep the kill pack at bay. Jordan-".

"I'm good with my bow."

"We're going to be running. And I'm sure you are excellent with the bow. But you have limited arrows and even less time to aim. I'm giving you the two pistols with four clips. This is the safety. The gun is loaded so you just need to pull the hammer, this part-"

"I know how a musket works."

"Well the bullets automatically chamber themselves every time you fire until the clip is empty. Then the gun stays open. You press this button to release the empty clip, slide the next clip in, and pull back on the top chambering the round and then you can fire again. As much as I want these weapons to last I'm just hoping it'll be enough to keep us alive."

"Great so we can fight the pack. But in case you haven’t noticed the rex is getting braver."

Stay in this room as long as you can then get up to the barricade and start getting it taken down."

With the rex looking for a way in?" Rider asked.

"I'm going to make him back off."

"How?" Jordan asked.

I'm going to go down stairs and shoot out the windows allowing the sand to pour in. You said the rexes aren’t normally desert hunters so the sinking sand should make him back off. At least long enough for me to get in here again, shoot out this window, which will release our built up scent. The rex's attention will be right here and I'll shoot him like I did the first one. Then I’ll meet you at the exit where we'll head out."

"You mean run." Rider laughed.

"No." both Jordan and I said at the same time.

"What?" Rider asked.

"Prey runs. We'll have just killed a rex. Well, Prowl will have. If we move confidently, like we are in charge they will continue to watch for the right moment to attack. We just have to be sure we're ready for that moment. I've hunted them before but only in a group of comparable size." Jordan explained.

"If we can get beyond the cover of the buildings the weapons I gave you will give us an advantage of range."

The building shuddered again. The glass held but bits of the wall fell away.

"Prowl, go."

***

When I got back I'd shot out all the windows on three sides. I wanted there to be a dune on the side we would be escaping down. Even though the window was too clouded to see out I could make out the shadow of the rex pacing. He'd just watched another building collapse on his sibling so of course he'd keep back from the sinking sand. I shot out the window with my plasma pistol and went to aim my sniper rifle when I was pushed back against the wall, I'd misjudged just how angry the rex was. He’d charged and now I was pinned to the wall with the barrel of my rifle in his mouth. I fired reflexively and the rex looked surprised. I used that moment to release the extended barrel freeing the rifle. I slid sideways but the rex didn't move. Firing that much concentrated plasma energy directly into him should have killed him by vaporizing his internal organs, but I wasn't taking chances. As soon as I was free I ran up the stairs to where Jordan and Rider were waiting.

"I think I killed him. If not he's just stunned but will die soon. We need to go now."

As we headed out I noticed several raptors on the rex's tail. Obviously they thought it was dead. They looked at us and I nodded. I don't know why I did it, but they returned their attention to the rex.

We moved quickly but cautiously. We were being shadowed but I didn't sense an attack.

"We're being followed. But there's only a couple of them." Rider said.

"They're pack hunters they may have a trap waiting for us." Jordan cautioned.

"It doesn't feel like they are chasing or herding us. I could be wrong but it feels like they are just making sure we're out of their territory." I said.

"You're right. You've left quite the gift behind." A strange voice seemed to hiss.

I went to raise my pistol but it was knocked from my hand by the lizard anthro. "None of that. All I ask is that you leave the items you found here. We don't want scavengers coming to find more of what you've taken."

I scowled as Jordan dropped the pistols and ammo. "I don't much care for such weapons anyway so you can keep them."

Rider likewise, though much more reluctantly set down the rifle and his ammo.

The Thorny Devil, as his species was suddenly named in my mind pointed his spear at me. "Yours as well."

"My weapons are my own."

"Yes I know, however you have something from this place."

Suddenly I remembered the three bullets I'd kept for creating a mold. "Fine, but there is a condition."

"Prowl, this isn't-" Jordan started to warn me.

"The barrel of my rifle is stuck in that rex's mouth. I'm sure eventually you will get it out. It will only work with my unique rifle so it isn't any good to anyone but me. I ask that you keep it and should we ever meet again you return it to me." I said, as I dropped the three bullets in the sand.

"That is acceptable. Now pick up your gun and go. But tell no one what you have seen here. My friends may not be as articulate as we are but they are just as intelligent. I'd rather not have to start killing people that come looking for artifacts or things to kill."

"If anyone comes here they won't have heard of this place from us. I know this is a stupid thing to ask, but why aren't you killing us?" Jordan asked.

The lizard let out a hissing laugh and pointed at me. "Because of him. As you were leaving he turned back and acknowledged the pack leader as an equal. Until now the only anthro to show her that sort of respect had been myself. She is the one allowing you to live because of that. Now go."

I picked up my blaster and the lizard was gone. I could still sense our escorts watching us but the lizard was undetectable. I gestured to Jordan and Rider and we started moving again.

"He was there the whole time." Rider whispered.

"What do you mean?" Jordan asked.

"The lizard was in the building with us. It's the only way he could have known about the bullets I had. He must have slipped in when you were holding the door for Rider and me."

“He could have come in from the building you collapsed on the Rex.” Jordan defended.

"Well that isn't creepy or anything." Rider mumbled.

I had a new feeling and I didn't need to analyze it to know it was fear. Now that I knew there were individuals that my sense of danger couldn't pick up meant my job of protecting Jordan and Rider was going to be much more difficult.

***

We traveled through the morning into mid-day. Then Jordan pointed out some rocks sticking above a dune. "We can rest there until evening. I know it doesn't look like much but there is an ancient structure buried there where we'll be safe."

"Yes. It is, or I guess was, well known to my pride. There is another shelter not far from here where we camped. This is where we started following you." Rider said.

I looked around, except for the rocks everything looked like a world of sand the same as every step since we left the city. "Rider, how long were you camped?"

"Three days. Why?"

"Because if I understand correctly the rexes don't normally come into the desert."

Jordan gasped. "That means they were following me. No! My companions could be in trouble!" He tried to run but staggered in the heat.

I steadied him and turned him back toward the rocks. What is done is done. Rushing now will do nothing more than endanger all of us. We stop and rest. Then we continue on. If your companions survived we will meet up with them." I felt a sudden sense of fear. Would Jordan abandon me once he was back among his friends? "If they didn't survive we will lay them to rest." I wasn't sure what I meant but it seemed to calm Jordan slightly.

"You two go ahead. I'm going to make my way to the other camp." Rider said.

Jordan had his spear at Rider's throat in an instant. "So you can bring more scavengers back to attack us?"

"Jordan, everyone was killed except me. I have no one to go back to or for. I'd hoped . . . No, I should have known better. Even my own men never really accepted me. They just followed out of fear. I was going to go and get supplies. Instead I'll go and you will never see me again. I-"

"Go get what you need. We'll wait here for you." I said, quietly.

"That's not your call to make." Jordan replied, angrily.

"Yes it is. We're all hot, dehydrated, and exhausted. Add to that you seem to be getting overheated and you're worried about your friends. Since joining us out of a sense of self preservation, Rider has been loyal, and even the voice of reason at least once. I trust him. If he says he's going to return with supplies then I believe he will. In case you haven't noticed we're out of water."

"Fine, but when he comes back with a raiding party I expect you to kill him."

"Then it's a good thing he isn't going to, right Rider?"

"I swear it." He replied before heading off at an angle to us.

Jordan shook his head and then had me follow him to a doorway. Well it wasn't really a door, more like an opening with a tough hide across it. We entered and found a small room. It was obvious at one point there had been other rooms but just this one remained.

Jordan stumbled over to one side and worked a rock out of the way. He stuck the back of his spear in the hole and moved it around a bit then dragged it back out with a strap and a water skin. He started to take a long drink and I pulled it away.

"Small sips a little at a time."

His face turned red for some reason, "I knew that, it's just . . ."

"I know." Suddenly my head hurt. No, not just hurt it was like Jordan had shoved his spear through my brain. I had a vision. I was smaller and much heavier. I was hot, so hot and thirst, but I just kept vomiting and writhing in pain. While a voice growled that I should have known better than to gulp cold water like I had.

I opened my eyes. I was half buried in cool sand, my armor and clothes neatly placed to one side.

"I think he's coming out of it." Jordan said. He held a cool cloth against my forehead.

"Hey, you had us worried there." Rider said, offering a container with a very small amount of water. "Seems you were worse off than Jordan. You shouldn't hide things like that. We could have set up a shelter sooner in order to cool down."

"Not, heat stroke." Even with the sip of water my throat was on fire.

"Don't know that term, but you were definitely over heated." Rider insisted.

"No. Memory. Very old memory. Something from before weapon. Not supposed to remember."

"A memory caused all this?" Jordan asked in concern.

"A bad memory." I sighed. "It is there now and I can't make it go away. I was young. I was out in sun most of the day. Can’t remember what I was doing, but we had returned to camp. I was hot and thirsty and I was given cold water. Naturally I gulped it down."

Rider groaned. "Didn't anyone warn you?"

I felt liquid coming from my eyes but Jordan quickly wiped it away. "No. I don't want to think about what happened. The worst part is the mocking voice. It was from someone that was supposed to protect me. The one that gave me the cold water. He mocked me for not knowing to only take small sips of water that only seemed cool. He mocked me as I writhed in pain and vomited. He mocked me even though he gave me the water. He claimed I wouldn’t have learned otherwise. Why, when could have at least warned me. Why? Why of all the memories I've lost do I have to have this one?"

"I don't know. However if we ever meet that man. I want you to tell me so I can punch him." Jordan growled. Not just like a human but the sound he made was like an angry animal.

There was a loud roar and I realized Rider had left again.

"It seems I'm not the only one that's angry." Jordan said putting the cool rag on my forehead again.

"Your anger is misplaced. As far as I can tell, the man he speaks of has been dead for hundreds of years."

"Xenonc, advice like that is going to get the communications device shut off again."

"You wouldn't have even remembered to turn it back on if you hadn't been desperate for advice on what to do to lower his temperature. Burying him in sand worked?"

"It seems to have. His fever has gone down."

"That is a given, but is he still hot?" Xenonc asked.

"I think that's enough from you for now." Jordan said. I noticed that he didn't shut the device completely off. So Xenonc was likely still listening. "Are you feeling better?"

"I still feel warm but the sand feels nice." I winced as my mind flared again.

I was buried in sand only it was gray instead of the yellowish color I was now buried in. I was ten or eleven. It had been a hot summer day and I'd been playing in the ditch. I wasn't far from the house so if grandma yelled I'd be able to answer without anyone coming looking for me.

I wasn't supposed to be playing in the ditch so if I came back wearing wet clothes I'd likely get a spanking. So I'd stripped down and hung them on a bush to dry. I'd buried myself in the sand to keep anyone from finding out I was being so naughty. It felt strangely exhilarating but also relaxing.

There was a laugh and I was back in the small room.

"It seems that was a good memory. A very good memory." Jordan laughed pointing to where the sand had mounded up. I felt my face grow warm and my traitorous mind told me I was blushing.

"It seems you’re doing better." Rider said, as he came back in.

"Just a good memory of another time I was buried in sand." I said, much too quickly.

"A very, very good memory it seems." He moved over beside us and started scooping out a depression.

"What are you doing?" Jordan asked.

"Well, since Prowl thinks so highly of it I thought I'd burry myself in order to cool of as well." Rider said, before standing up. He removed the various belts he used to hold multiple pouches then started on his leather armor. Jordan, can you give me a hand? I have a bit of trouble with the straps, having claws and all.

Jordan stood as if in a daze and carefully untied the armor.

"Thanks, it really feels good to take that off even just for a little while."

Jordan stood there in a daze. I'm not sure if he was waiting to be of more assistance or if, like me he wanted to run his fingers through the golden fur caressing each hard muscle. I shook my head what was I thinking? Still I couldn't look away especially as he slowly removed his leather skirt. I figured that was it. It wasn't, Rider gave a little grin that my mind interpreted as embarrassment and gestured at the laces at the front of his shorts.

Jordan was quick to loosen them as well. We both stared as he turned and slid them down. Then he bent down lifting his short tail as he did. I bit my lip to keep from gasping and the sight. I wanted . . . I'm not sure what it was I wanted, but I knew I wanted it desperately.

Rider stood back up and turned. He wasn't like . . . well he wasn't the same as a human. It was obvious he had similar equipment but it was more . . . animalistic. He grinned at me. "It seems we now know what you like." He knelt and scooped the wet sand away from my . . . embarrassment.

My mouth dropped open as he slowly ran his paw over me. The soft fur causing more pleasure than I could ever imagine. Something told me this wasn't my first time feeling this sort of pleasure, but how could I ever forget feeling this way. I groaned as a new level of pleasure hit me. I watched as I . . . came? That word didn’t seem to really describe what I was feeling but I did it all over Rider’s paw.

I couldn't believe it as Rider then smiled at me and licked his paw clean. Then he covered me back over with sand and carefully buried himself.

"You two should get some sleep. I'll take watch." Jordan announced. He sounded angry but I suddenly felt really tired and he did tell me to sleep.

I'm not sure if it was a dream or reality, but I heard a strange noise that woke me. There was a small fire keeping the shelter warm so it must have been night. I was laying on a blanket with another covering me Rider was still deeply asleep and Jordan had his back turned. It seemed he was doing for himself what Rider had done for me. I don't know what possessed me but I got up and crawled over to him.

When he noticed me he tried to cover himself, but I stopped him. His . . . part, why wouldn't my memory provide the right words? It was large and wet. I don't know why but I gave it a small lick causing him to give a small gasp.

For once my mind kicked into gear providing words. His pre-cum tasted good. No, it tasted like something I desperately needed. I took a longer lick starting at the base going all the way to the top and even slipping the tip of my tongue in his foreskin. It wasn’t enough. I took him fully into my mouth I pushed down further and further finally I swallowed taking him all the way in. I glanced up. He had his head back and eyes closed. He was gripping the sand tightly, and I could feel him throbbing inside me, I pulled back just enough to take a breath through my nose. His scent, this close. My brain stalled again but I wanted it on me, covering me. I wanted him in me and to put my part in him. I wanted . . .

I would have gasped if my throat hadn't been full as I felt large paws grip my waist, fur against my butt and something hot and wet press against my rear. My eyes went wide as Rider pressed into me.

I wanted, no, I needed this. I felt Jordan start throbbing and I pulled back. His . . . What he was giving me tasted even better than his pre-cum. Cum, that had to be what this was. I swallowed all he could give me until he went soft. I released him only then noticing that Rider, even though he was still pounding into me was also carefully supporting Jordan. Jordan seemed to have fallen asleep after his release.

Suddenly I couldn't catch my breath as I started to cum again. Rider growled and pushed deeper and I could feel him filling me. It stung as he pulled out but not badly. I wanted to say something but my brain didn't want to work again. I heard Rider chuckle as the world faded away.

* * *

I woke suddenly as I was hit with a piece of cloth. "Wipe as much of the sand off as possible. You don't want it rubbing while we walk." Jordan said, as he continued to dress.

I was laying completely exposed and erect on a blanket. The last thing I remembered was . . . I glanced at Rider and then Jordan.

"Hurry up the sun has already set and I want to be out of the desert by morning." Jordan insisted.

How long had I been asleep? It had been night when . . . Had it all been a dream? Rider and Jordan seemed to be acting like nothing had happened. I quickly wiped off as much sand as possible and started to dress. I noticed Rider was setting up three back packs. My brain was being rebellious again because even though I recognized most of the stuff I couldn’t articulate a name or how it was supposed to be used.

"Okay I'm ready." Jordan said.

"Add your items to this pile so I can rebalance the packs." After some quick adjustments Rider helped Jordan put on the pack. "You're next." He said, looking at me.

"Everything I have is attached to my cloths and armor."

Rider nodded. I noticed my pack was larger than Jordan's. I suppose that made sense considering I had less difficulty traveling in the dark.

"What is all this stuff?" Jordan asked.

"The artifacts my pride had accumulated. Usually once every couple of years we would take it all to a gathering and trade it for things we needed. I'm following you now, so it only makes sense that I collected it all for our benefit. I also have the last of that camp's water and food supplies."

Jordan shook his head. I thought he would argue but he seemed to accept Rider's explanation. I finished getting my armor on and settled then allowed Rider to assist me with the pack. He'd done a good job of balancing it as I didn't really notice the weight at all.

"Prowl, I think this is yours?"

I glanced up. Jordan was coming back in. I hadn't even noticed he'd been out of my sight. I was about to start a harsh mental critique of my failures when I realize he held the sniper barrel of my rifle.

"It was just leaning against the stones. There weren't prints or disturbance in the sand at all."

I took the barrel and carefully inspected it. It was indeed my sniper barrel I clipped it back into place on my armor. "I really hadn't expected to see it again." I knew it had to be the lizard man's doing. Still, it seemed I believed his species weren't known for speed. They didn't need to be fast with all the spines on their bodies.

"If that's everything we need to go. I need to know if Bike and Saber are alright."

He'd used their names. That meant my thoughts about names being taboo were completely wrong. It also meant it had been a trust issue.

We moved quickly and quietly with Jordan in front, me in the middle and Rider at the rear. I noticed Jordan was moving a lot faster now and had to assume it was because he knew where he was going. I did notice him looking up to the stars and realized he was using them to navigate. When I looked up I was lost. It seemed my memories and the programed memories didn't seem to think I needed that knowledge. My attention was drawn to an area of darkness where there were no stars visible. I don't know why but I found that emptiness comforting for some reason.

***

Even though it was night we didn't speak. I figured it was to keep from attracting predators. Still I wanted to find out if it had all been a dream. If it was a dream I wanted to find a way to make it real. If it was real then I wanted more of it.

At some point the sand had given way to scrubland and then proper grassland. I could see the glow on the horizon indicating the sun would rise very soon. Jordan had warned me this was the most dangerous time. Suddenly I sensed something it moved fast knocking Jordan to the ground I was pulling up my rifle when I heard Jordan laughing. Why was he laughing when an animal nearly twice his size was attacking him?

"Saber, enough. You're scaring our new friends."

The sabretooth cat turned and hissed at us.

"Rider, he sees you as a rival and a threat." Jordan warned.

"Yeah, I get it." Rider slowly knelt down facing Jordan rather than the big cat. He'll accept me as a pride member as long as I acknowledge you as the pride leader."

Saber huffed and turned toward me. Only he didn't hiss. Instead he dropped to the ground and rolled over exposing his neck.

"Um, Jordan?"

"I've never seen him react this way. So I'm confused as well."

"He's submitting to you. He saw me as a threat to his position. But this . . . this is the action of one that knows you are much more powerful. Prowl, just who are you?" Rider asked.

I slowly knelt down and placed my hand on Saber’s throat. Then I carefully traced it over his lower jaw and up to his ear where I gently scratched. His back leg twitched and then I backed away. He rolled over and stood up looking at Jordan.

"What do you mean I made a good choice? I found him out in the desert. No, you certainly cannot. I don't care what you think."

"You're doing it again. I've told you talking like that to a dumb animal is going to get you crucified eventually."

I had my blaster out and pointed at the newcomer's head. I noticed Rider was doing the same with his musket.

"You told me you were going out into the desert to retrieve an artifact that would make it so our village wouldn't have to pay tribute any longer and you come back with an outcast and another animal?"

"Bike, I swear if you weren't the chief’s son-"

"But I am so don't forget I'm the one in charge here."

"I didn't agree to that. Rider, did Jordan ever indicate that anyone was in charge?" I asked.

"No, but we have been following his lead. What about you Saber, who is in charge here?"

"What do you mean asking if I am still in charge or is the one that is most powerful in charge?"

"Wait, can you actually understand him?" I asked. I'd thought he was just playing.

"Of course he can't. He's just raised that thing since it was a cub so it seems like he understands it." Bike sneered.

Saber hissed and I didn't need an interpreter to understand he didn't like Bike.

"He says you would be dead if he hadn't followed my orders to keep you safe." Jordan growled.

"Oh well, then why don't you listen to him and put the outcast in charge then?"

I didn't want to know what Jordan might say so I spoke first. "Because I don't want to be in charge. I have my talents, but currently leadership isn't one of them. Rider also can't be leader because, as I understand it, he can't enter populated areas. Saber can't be in charge because only Jordan fully understands him. Finally you can't be in charge because out of all of us you are the most lacking in intelligence."

Rider couldn't help laughing and even Jordan chuckled. I knew they would understand just how great that insult was when most of the time I didn't even know what word matched what I was feeling.

"I'll get packed and we can head back then." Bike replied.

"No." I said, immediately.

"We've traveled all night, never mind the ordeals we've been through. We'll spend the day and night resting at the ruins and then continue after we have recovered." Jordan added.

"You actually trust them?" Bike asked in surprise.

Jordan glanced at us. "After the last few days . . . I think there is only one person I would trust as much, and it isn't you."

I smiled. "I am Prowl. It is my mission to protect Jordan at any cost. If you hurt or threaten to hurt him, I will kill you. Rider is also under my protection. If you hurt him or attempt to betray him to others. I will kill you. Saber, having submitted to me is also now under my protection."

"I get it you'll kill me."

"No. I'm sure Saber is more than capable of doing that himself. If Jordan wishes it you will also be under my protection but only against others."

"Wonderful, you've gone from outcast to fanatic in my opinion. And what is your story?" Bike asked, glaring at Rider.

There was a loud squawking roar that caught our attention. We were being charged by . . . something. It was larger than a member of the killer pack but smaller than a rex with a giant beak and covered in feathers. Rider fired his musket to no effect and in rapid succession Jordan put three arrows into it. It was definitely one tough bird. I flipped my rifle to rapid fire, aimed, and squeezed the trigger. Three shots of plasma energy per second for twenty seconds left the creature a smoking pile of charred feathers and meat. I glanced around and found Rider, Saber, and Jordan looking from the creature and then back at me. Bike was gone. Likely he ran the instant the creature screamed.

"I think we should get inside before continuing our conversation. Sometimes the terror birds hunt in flocks. Oh and Prowl, you owe me for those arrows you destroyed while showing off." Jordan said, as he and Saber walked away.

I wanted to argue, but maybe he was right. I had kept firing even once it was down.

Rider placed his hand on my shoulder. "He's just showing that he's in charge so don't take it personally. By the way, once we are safely under cover I need you to help me with something." Rider said, before jogging to catch up with Jordan.

I hurt again. More bad feelings that I couldn't define. I hoped there would be plenty of room in the shelter because I needed some alone time to try and define some of what I was feeling. I walked over to the corpse and found the remains of the three arrows. All three shafts were burn and ruined along with one of the metal heads. However two of arrowheads could be salvaged. After collecting them I ran to catch up to the others.

Bike waiting for us just inside. I noticed Saber Run off. It was understandable. This shelter was smaller than the previous one.

"It’s about damn time.”

“I was retrieving Jordan’s arrows.” I said as I handed the two arrowheads to Jordan.

“Complete fanatic. The entrance to the shelter is this way." He said, as he pushed some debris aside.

We continued down a staircase. Jordan didn't follow us. At the bottom of the stairs was a large cavern. "Don't expect to find anything. This place was cleaned out a long time ago."

Saber came bounding in and rubbed against me nearly knocking me down. I'd need to be careful to always be braced when he was nearby.

"Stupid cat. I don't know how you keep getting that door open. You two, don't go anywhere or touch anything. I've got to go reseal that cargo door."

It was a few second after he left that Jordan appeared. "Sorry for leaving like that, but that entrance is the easiest to find so I like to keep it as hidden as possible."

"And the cargo doors?" Rider asked.

"Even though it's the largest entrance it is overgrown and well hidden."

"Is there a place down here where we can have a bit of privacy?" Rider asked.

"I know Bike can be irritating, but I'm asking you to put up with him. We are from the same village so we're sort of family. However, yes there are private accommodations. Well, sort of."

We followed Jordan into a side tunnel lined with giant barrels. "These were wine casks. But at some point this place was converted to a barracks or a shelter. Inside each one of these is a bed or more. Some have a desk others four beds two stacked on each side. Each of them have a lamp. I've collected enough oil for one or two but we can ration it, unless Bike used it all while I was gone. Just be really careful not to light the place on fire."

"Okay, Then I'm going to spend a bit of time thinking and trying to trigger some useful memories. I don’t need to use a lamp for that." I said. Not that I really needed one there was enough light in the tunnels that I could see well enough to get around.

"Yeah, I could use a nap. I’ll probably need a lamp later but right now it is bright enough that my night vision is letting me see well enough." Rider added.

"Fine, but we have supplies here, or we did before I left, so I'm going to make a proper meal and I expect both of you to eat some. Dried meat and hard bread isn't good enough when we can do better."

"Okay, it makes sense to save those supplies for when we really need it since it lasts longer." Rider agreed.

Jordan didn't look happy about the comment but he let it slide. He led us to the doors that had been cut in the end of the barrels. "I’ll find you each a lamp. Even if you don’t need them yet, it is best to have them ready for when you do."

"If you want. I'm just going to nap." Rider said, as he entered his room.

"I seem to have good night vision as well, though I'll probably need a lamp at some point, just not right now. I want to think and I don't need light for that." As I entered Saber stuck his head in the opening as if to make sure I was settled and then followed Jordan.

"That is none of your concern." I heard Jordan tell the cat as they were walking away.

My room had one bed and a desk. I chose to sit on the bed pulling my legs up and crossing them. I felt sad and angry. All things considered what had taken place in the desert had been a dream. It meant I was having deviant thoughts about both Rider and Jordan. "Thud" I hit the back of my head against the wall behind me. Even if it wasn't wrong everyone had made it clear I was just a weapon. "Thud." Even Saber must see me that way. Why else would he act that way? "Thud" It's not like I had any other use since I didn't really have much in the way of intelligence. "Thud, thud, thud." Now that Jordan was back in his own lands it would be best if I wasn't around anymore. "Thud." I couldn't turn my weapons on myself, but I could walk out and let myself be attacked and eaten. "Thud." It couldn't hurt much more than the emptiness I was feeling.

My head twisted slightly as I felt an impact on my cheek. "Prowl! I said snap out of it! I don't know what you were thinking about but I've been yelling at you for at least a minute now." Jordan yelled. I don't know how long before that Rider had tried to make you stop."

"Not long. Though, he was speaking in a language I couldn't understand." Rider replied.

"I'm telling you to get rid of him." Bike sneered.

Jordan grabbed my rifle pointed it at Bike and attempted to pull the trigger. "You see that?"

"You just tried to kill me!" Bike yelled.

"No, I didn't. Prowl is the only one that can use this weapon. Whether you want to believe it or not it fires a bright light powerful enough to sever a T-Rex leg at the hip with one shot. He has night vision better than any other human. He can go longer without food and water than I can, and he has saved my life several times. He is also willing to give his life to protect me." Jordan turned toward me, "Something I don't want you to ever do." He turned back to Bike, "And you, if you ever do anything to harm either Prowl or Rider I'll . . ." Jordan looked at Saber, who was sticking his head in the door. "Really? You mean that?"

"Would you stop that. It's weird and-".

"Saber says if you do anything that will in anyway harm any of us he will take great pleasure in tearing you apart and eating you."

"Just remember your duty to the village." Bike said, before stalking out.

"Jordan, I'm sorry but I really don't like him." Rider said, quietly.

"I don't either, but as a member of the same village I can't abandon him. Also he is strong and pretty good on the battlefield. Just don't trust him."

Rider laughed. "Yeah, I've known a few like him. Though they don't last long. They are often killed in battle and not always from enemy fire."

"Prowl, why were you hurting yourself?" Jordan asked.

"I . . ."

"The truth." He insisted.

"Bike's right. I'm worthless and stupid and you should just get rid of me."

"Really? It seems to me you have proven very valuable. You killed three T-rexes on your own. I don't know anyone that's done that before. You’re the one that got us out of the situation with the pack of killers and that lizard man. I’m still not even sure how you did that. You're also not stupid. Maybe you can't remember things but when we need you, you always know what to do."

I knew he was just trying to make me feel better but even if they were here I still felt alone and trapped in my own mind. I just wanted to lay down and cry myself to steep. "I- I'm okay now. I just want to sleep."

"No!" Three voices seemed to say at once.

"I'm sorry Prowl, but you may have injured yourself more than you think so we need you to stay awake for a while. We'll move you to the area where I'm cooking and I'll tell you a bit about myself. Maybe hearing about my past will trigger more of your memories. Rider can you help me?"

He easily lifted me "I can help you move him but, If it wasn't for his banging I'd be deep asleep. I'm afraid if I stay I'll just fall asleep and that won't help keep Prowl awake."

"You're probably right. You can return to your rest. I'm sure Saber will help me."

I stared at Saber. I could have sworn I heard him say "yes" maybe I had damaged myself more than I realized.

I sat on a bench next to where Jordan was cutting vegetables.

"I hope you aren't hoping for something complicated. You can only find that in the cities and at high prices as well. Not to say I can't make such things, I just don't have the right tools."

While Jordan was explaining he was cutting up plants. No, vegetables and herbs. And putting them into a large pot. He reached for a large water skin.

"No" Saber said, quite clearly.

Jordan glared at him. "What do you mean 'no'? I need to add water in order to-"

I could tell he was saying more but I couldn't understand more than "stream water".

"BIKE!" Jordan yelled.

"What do you want now?" He asked materializing out of the shadows.

Was I losing my danger sense? Or had I just decided he wasn’t a treat? I could sense him now. He’d been spying on us. That wasn’t the act of someone to be trusted.

"Did you get this water from the stream instead of the spring?"

"Water is water."

I let out a growl surprising myself. "Spring water is filtered and can be considered clean. Stream water can be contaminated. In survival situations running water can be used if it is boiled. However boiling only kills bacteria and parasites. Leaving behind any non-biological dangers. If you have a spring available always use that."

Jordan nodded. "I told you that you were smart.” Jordan looked at me and then at the pot.

"Let's go and get the clean water.” I said as I started to get up. “You're the only trustworthy one that knows where the spring is."

"No. You’re injured and smell like blood. It's too dangerous for you to go out. I can make it on my own."

"Saber, stay and watch Prowl."

"Saber, I'm not going to order you to do anything, but my purpose is to protect Jordan. It seems I can't do that right now. Would you please go and make sure he is safe?"

"Now he's talking to the animal as well!" Bike yelled, before stomping off.

Saber stood and looked directly at me. "I. Go. Brother."

"Saber, he can't understand you."

"I can understand a little. He just said he was going to go with his brother, as I asked him."

Jordan looked like he was going to say something, but he grabbed an empty water skin and walked away.

"No mad, brother thought he only hear." Saber tried to explain.

"The more I listen the more I understand."

"You both special. Must go and protect. You stay. No sleep."

As Saber ran, I sighed. I wasn't special. Not in the least little bit.

Within minutes I noticed I was starting to nod off. I knew if I did have an injury I might not wake up again. So to stay awake I got up and started to explore the cavern.

I quickly came to the conclusion that it wasn't natural. It was too uniform for that. It must have been carved into the stone. My mind furnished an explanation that keeping wine underground to age was best because it needed a stable temperature.

I had no idea why I would have such information since it seemed so random. I stopped my investigation when I found a hand pump. It was attached to a pipe that had once ran vertically into the ground and up through the top of the cave. It was placed between two of the giant barrel rooms in an open space. I went to try it.

"Don't bother, it doesn't work. Now get back to the cooking area. While I don't care if you get lost or killed Jordan seems to think you have value and until he completes his task I'm not going to let you divert his attention." Blake said, in as neutral a voice as I'd heard from him.

"I have really good night vision and I can sense which direction is north. I can also retrace my steps to return to any place I've traveled from. I'm not going to get lost. I can also sense the presence of treats. That’s how I’ve known you’ve been following me. Too scared to go out and follow Jordan?” I wasn't sure if anything other than night vision was true so I closed my eyes and moved my hand and didn't sense anything. I turned directly right and tried again and found it. I didn't understand how but I knew I'd found North. Perhaps I did have some sort of special skills that made me perfect as some sort of . . . My mind went blank. Not like when I couldn't remember, but just a complete void like the information had been erased. Still I had an idea why the pump didn't work.

I shook my head, ignoring Bike, and returned to my room for my water container. Rider had assured us that it was safe since his pride always filled their supply from a spring. I returned to the pump. The handle was attached to a large metal box. On the front was a place that could be opened and closed to let the water out. I glanced around. Bike had left after I called him a coward but if the others could see me I'm sure they would stop me. I filled the box with water and started pumping. After several seconds I had to fill it again using the last of my drinking water. I went back to pumping.

When I opened the box again it was still full. Except it was really dirty. I opened the valve and started pumping again. I was rapidly getting tired, but I kept going until the water flowed out cleanly. I closed the valve and pumped a little more making sure the reservoir was full. So long as that didn't go dry we'd have water. I wanted to refill my water skin but I couldn't pump any longer.

Now that the pump had been properly primed Jordan wouldn't have to walk to the spring for clean water. I was walking back to the cooking area when I spotted a large metal tub. I wasn't sure what it had been used for but that didn't matter. What mattered was it was large enough to allow Saber to sit in it and maybe the test of us if Saber staid out. No, maybe three of us. I didn’t want to be in a bath with Bike and Rider’s larger size would take up any extra room. I shook my head and wished I hadn’t. I really shouldn’t be thinking such things.

I tried lifting the tub and I could get one side up a little. This was something I'd need help with. Defeated for the moment I returned to the cooking area and found both Rider and Bike sitting there glaring at each other.

"Finally given up then?" Bike asked.

"For the moment. You said there was a river or stream nearby?" I asked.

"Yes. Why do you ask?"

I need four river stones, those are the ones rounded on all sides, about the size of your head. If that isn’t possible I suppose about twenty four fist sized ones would work just as well."

"You are crazy? Oh right, of course you are." Bike said.

"What do you want them for?" Rider asked.

I tapped my head and immediately wished I hadn't. I really needed to remember not to do that for a while. "A project." I replied.

Rider seemed to get the hint and he stood up, "Bike, lead me to the stream. When Prowl has an idea it is best to follow his instructions. It always leads to something good or helpful."

"Yeah, like playing with that useless art fixture."

"While I respect Jordan, that only means I won't kill you. But trust me, I know how much pain and suffering a human can take before they die. I'm sure you don't want me to demonstrate on you when all you have to do is guide me to the stream and back."

"Fine. However Jordan isn't going to like it."

"I'll deal with him." I said, confidently.

"Oh really? How do you plan to do that?" Jordan asked. Stepping around me into the fire light.

"Uh." I knew there was no way I’d ever be able to detect him with my danger sense. No matter how hard I tried.

Rider was laughing and I realized he'd known Jordan was listening in.

"You two get going. I don't know what is going on, but I'm sure Prowl has a good reason. Saber, go with them and make sure they are safe."

"But . . . got back." Saber whined.

Jordan glared.

"Not fair." Saber said, before growling at Rider and Bike.

"He said to hurry. He wants to get back as soon as possible and if you take too long he'll eat you."

I bit my lip knowing that Saber hadn't said any of that.

After they had gone Jordan turned on my. "What have you been up to while I was getting water?"

"Better start what you were cooking. Then I'll show you."

Jordan sighed and poured nearly all the water into the pot. "I'll need to make another trip or two before we leave."

I smiled. "Come with me, and bring those empty water skins."

"Why?"

"Trust me."

He shook his head, but followed with the skins. He shook his head when I led him to the pump.

"That thing isn't going to work. I've found a few and none of them do. It's old relic stuff. As far as anyone has been able to figure out it is just artistic in nature."

"How do you get water where there aren't any springs like in towns?"

"Aqueducts, obviously."

"Start pumping."

"That would be pointless."

"Just trust me."

"Fine."

I waited three pumps to be sure there was enough water filling then I placed the opening of my water skin to the valve and turned it on.

"What magic is this?" Jordan asked, as the skin filled.

"No magic involved. You just have to prime the pump so that there is pressure to pull the water up the pipe from bellow." I switched skins until they were all filed then I had him pump a few more times to be sure it was ready for the next use.

"That was almost as much work as going to the spring and back." Jordan gasped. "Doesn't explain your need for the stones though."

"Well, I'm sort of afraid you might get mad about that one."

"What are you up to?"

"Well, we have a source of water and fire."

"I get it you want to clean up a little. Still it doesn't explain the stones."

"Um, more than a little. I want to take a hot bath to get all the grime off."

"Do you know how long that would take just to heat the water? Never mind we don't have anything to hold that much water even if you could pump it."

"With a bit of help we can. I found a tub large enough to bath in; and the water will only take a few moments to heat."

"Not possible."

"The stones I sent Rider after. They are placed in the coals of the fire. Once they are hot we transfer them to the tub of water. The heat from the stones goes into the water and the stones are reheated until the water is hot. Before you ask it is information that just came to me. I didn’t know why I needed the stones until just now. However it isn't like the programmed combat and survival information. It's like something that I learned before that. The sensation I get from remembering the three forms is slightly different."

"See, I told you. You are special. The knowledge about the pumps alone will be incredibly valuable. I know several locations around the city that have them. But, who would ever think to put water in when you want to get water out?"

I laughed, "The one that invented them for one and whoever taught me for . . . Jordan, this isn't just a skill memory! I know this is something I learned as a child. I was a child once! I wasn't created just to protect. I had a life before that happened to me!" I said, in excitement. It wasn't a lot but it was something. I just had to keep finding things that deep down I knew about and eventually I'd know who I really was, or at least, who I had been. I hugged him and then we both stiffened up and I stepped back.

"I'm sorry, I shouldn't have done that."

"No, it's okay. I was just surprised is all. Normally embraces are reserved for very close friends and family. It . . . it was nice."

He stepped forward and hugged me. It was nice and I found myself hugging him back.

"We'd better go check the food. I don't want it over cooking."

"Yes, and if this is unusual behavior, no matter how good it feels, probably best not to be doing it where Bike or Rider can catch us."

"What about Saber?" Jordan asked as we started back toward the fire. We were still holding hands.

"From what I've heard he'd be happy to catch us hugging."

Jordan stopped. "You can really understand him?"

"Only a couple of words at a time."

"Prowl, he's not talking. His words are mental speech. Until now I've been the only one that can understand him."

"Then how?"

"It seems you're even more special than I thought."

"We're back!" Saber yelled as he came running up. I braced but got pulled down when Jordan was the one pounced. He jumped back and immediately noticed Jordan's and my interlocked fingers. "I knew it!"

"Hush you. It's nothing. Jordan was just guiding me back to the fire." I said.

Saber looked at me then Jordan and back to me. "You . . . understand?"

"Only a little bit." I replied, as I got up.

"That's right, so you better be more careful about what you say." Jordan warned, as I helped him up then we continued on to the fire, no longer touching, leaving Saber behind in a stunned state.

***

I sat in silence as Jordan stirred the pot to keep things from burning. Bike was sharpening his knife and giving me nasty looks.

I hadn't told them what the stones were for I just placed them around the edges of the fire. As they heated a few cracked and fell apart but Rider had brought more than enough back. I wasn't sure if it was because he couldn't count high enough so he made sure to get a lot or he just wanted to be sure I had extra for whatever I had planned.

Rider had returned to his room insisting that he needed to re-assess what he'd brought with him. Suddenly I remembered he wanted my help with something. "How long will it be?"

"A little while. Why, are you getting hungry?" Jordan asked.

"No." My stomach growled in protest. "Maybe, but I just remembered Rider wanted my help with something and I was wondering if I had time to see what he needed."

"Go, just don't go back to your own room for a nap. Don't take too long and be sure to bring Rider back with you."

"Yes, sir."

As I walked I sensed Saber following. No doubt Jordan sent him to be sure I followed orders. When I reached Rider's room he turned back.

"You're really a pain in my stubby tail." I heard rider mutter.

"What?" I asked in surprise.

"Oh! Sorry Prowl, I was just talking to myself. I . . . well . . ." He held up a pistol or at least most of one. "I was trying to put this together, but my fingers just aren't up to the task."

"We were supposed to leave those behind!"

"No. It's not like that! This one was part of my pride’s treasures. We never used it because the first one we found exploded killing one of us. It's just after watching you I thought I might be able to get it to work properly."

I sighed and looked over the parts. He had parts for three guns but only two of them were the same model. I took a breath and let the part of me that knew this stuff take over. Within minutes I had one gun assembled that I was reasonably sure was usable. I'd also separated out the broken and unusable bits.

"Okay this one should work if you can find the right ammunition. These parts you can toss aside there's no way to use or fix them. Finally this last pile are usable parts that can be traded. Or I can separate them so you have repair parts for that pistol."

"Please sort them. I don't want to trade off something I may need later." He placed a small bag on the desk. "Here are all the shells we found. Well the ones that looked like the ones you said were safe."

"I'll sort them real quick as to the ones that you can use and the ones that you can't, but before I can determine if they are safe or not I'll need more light."

"Okay. I'll stick with my musket, but I really would like to have this as a backup just in case I need to shoot quicker."

I nodded in understanding.

"So, what is up with the stones? I didn't ask earlier in case you didn't want Bike to know."

"I want to take a bath. I still have sand in places that I'd rather not have it. Plus I need to wash the blood off and clean the wound to my head."

"And the stones?" Rider asked again.

"I'm going to fill a tub with water then I'm going to drop the hot stones in until the water is the temperature I want it. After that I'll return the stones to the fire so the next one of us can heat the water back up. Or start all over if they want to refill the tub."

"Isn't that going to be a lot of work? I mean carrying all that water."

"You know what? I think you might be just the person I need to help set things up."

Rider looked confused but he followed me. As we walked I watched for anything I could use. Finding a spigot wasn't hard with all the wine casks around. I did my best not to think about the new words that just seemed to pop into my head. Next I found a few bricks most fell to powder when I tried to pick them up but in the end I had nine that were better made. It would be enough. I left the bricks next to the pump.

"I'm not saying this to be mean, but you're acting like a man possessed." Rider said.

"In a way I am, sort of. Most of what I'm doing right now, if I tried to explain I wouldn’t be able to. Like those bricks and this overly large spigot. Hell, I can't even tell you how I know that's what it's called. I just know I need it and it will all make sense eventually."

Rider shook his head. "Okay, so far everything you've done has been to help so I don't see any reason to argue. However why did you need me?"

"To help me carry the tub." I said pointing it out."

"Prowl, you could fit three . . . well maybe two people, if you wanted to have a bit of extra room, in that thing. It'll take hours carrying enough water from the stream to fill it."

"Just help me move it."

Rider shook his head, but he helped. We move it so that the pump would pour directly down into it. Then I had Rider lift it and I placed one brick in the very center. Using my ability to find north I place four bricks between the center and the outer edge. Finally I placed the last four bricks at the edges.

"You need more bricks." Rider pointed out.

"Yeah. I'd like twelve, eight would be good, but four would be enough since we're not staying here that long."

"I'll go search I think I saw a few when Bike and I returned." Rider said before running off.

Now that I was alone I could take care of the most dangerous part. I'd noticed there was a channel in the floor leading from the pump to a larger channel in the center of the cavern. Likely it eventually ran outside. At least that made sense considering they had liquids stored here. If there was an accident they would want to remove the spill without making a bigger mess.

I crawled into the tub. I was going to need to make some steps to make it easier to get in. I carefully checked the line of the channel. There was nothing between me and the far wall. I checked the channel again, pulled out my blaster holding it just above the bottom and a few inches back from the side. I double checked to be sure it was clear and then I fired.

I jumped out of the tub and put the spigot in the hole working the super-heated metal at the edges around it until it looked sealed. Now I just had to hold it steady until the metal cooled.

"What's going on?" Jordan yelled, as he ran up.

"Uh, I'm just installing the drain valve."

"I told you, he's mentally unstable." Bike yelled.

Jordan glared at Bike then walked over and started pumping, then he opened the valve and returned to pumping.

”Does this look mentally unstable?" Jordan asked, as he continued to pump proving that the well was working.

There was a hiss and a cloud of steam as the water hit the hot metal.

"Bike, splash water against the metal on the inside around the drain but don't touch the area." I ordered.

He shook his head and walked away. If I could have I would have punched him even if it made Jordan angry at me.

Rider dropped an arm load of bricks and quickly started splashing the water until it stopped steaming as it hit.

"Now, for the moment of truth." I let go of the drain and it remained in place. I carefully opened the valve hoping it wasn't broken or melted and water flowed out into the channel. It had worked so I quickly shut it off again. Then the whole tub lifted up.

"Get those bricks in place before it gets to full to lift." Rider insisted.

I scrambled under placing the bricks as quickly as possible and then got out of the way. It wasn't level, but then to drain properly it did need to angle down toward the drain anyway.

"I'll take over, Jordan." I volunteered.

"No, first we go eat then we fill the tub and heat the water."

"Okay, but you can go first once it's ready." I insisted.

"No. You'll go first and I'll make sure that wound of yours is properly cleaned."

I was glad Jordan couldn't see as well as I could in the dark because I had flashbacks to my dream in the desert and my body decided to betray me. I did see Rider smirk and when we got closer to the fire Saber was giving me a knowing look. He could likely smell what I was feeling.

***