Trigger warnings & Author's notes
May contain: violence, domination, degradation, sadism, non-consent/coercion, slavery.
Been trying to flesh out a calendar system for this universe, will eventually go back to add dates to past chapters. Apologies again for the slow progress. I am entirely uninspired lately and I don't want to force it. (:
Chapter Eight: daneolis
Late October, year 0029 (past timeline)
Symond Welles approached General Narder in his headquarters, finding the man sitting at his desk and rubbing his temple gingerly as his eyes were glued to his computer screen. A few weeks had gone by since Symond's encounter with the royal-turned-rebel Mile Domarc, and after giving it considerable thought, the officer had come to a decision: he did not wish to continue his duties surveilling the rebellion. He was feeling perpetually unsettled and on edge in a way he had never before experienced. Once committed to this decision, he traveled to the capital city of Aza Ilia to speak to the general.
"Welles, come in." The general pushed away from the busywork he was doing at his computer to give the officer his full attention. "I was hoping for a distraction, if I'm being honest."
"Sir," Symond greeted him.
"Report?"
"No major developments since Eastrun. IT managed to remotely lock the laptop the rebels stole and the accounts used on it, so they won't have been able to access any sensitive information. The accounts will continue to be monitored for any suspicious activity. But as you know, they did manage to run off with a good deal of phones and security devices."
"Very well." The general paused and looked over Symond, who appeared a bit reticent. "That's not why you are here, is it?"
Symond shook his head. "No, sir."
"Well, let me have it."
"I would like to be considered for transfer, sir. I am finding this job to be unfulfilling, and I feel as though I could be of better use elsewhere for the time being."
General Narder remained quiet. After a few moments spent deep in thought, he spoke. "I sincerely hope this isn't because of Eastrun. You underestimated the organization of the rebellion, but we all did. It was an honest mistake, officer."
Symond shook his head. "It's because of a lot of things, sir. Overall I believe I am not currently suited for the task."
Narder frowned and said nothing for another moment. Finally, he broke the tense silence between the two of them. "Very well. I can't say I'm not disappointed, but I trust your judgment on the matter. If you ever feel up to returning, please do not hesitate to let me know."
"Yes, sir."
The general leaned back in his chair. "That said, we can definitely use you in Daneolis. The northerners are putting up one hell of a fight."
Symond nodded. "That sounds more my speed for the time being. Thank you, general."
"I can have you up there in a week's time."
------------
November, year 0029
Terrasa Post, Domarcan occupied territory in the bordering country of Daneolis
Symond stepped out of the bitterly cold air and into the welcoming warmth of the wood heated building. He was burdened with a heavy pack filled with belongings and was grateful to have reached his destination after a few days of travel with the military convoy general Narder had organized. The icy terrain was perilous and movement had been slow.
Prince Allius Domarc stood near the fireplace, having been informed of his arrival. He turned, greeting the other. "Officer Welles, welcome to Terrasa post."
Symond approached the young royal and kneeled before him. "Good to see you, your highness."
"I hope your journey was not terrible. Absolutely barbaric landscape up here."
Symond nodded. "It is certainly unforgiving, but fortunately we didn't experience too much trouble in getting here."
Prince Allius smirked slightly. "Less trouble than my brother has given you as of late, I would imagine."
Symond, not keen on the reminder, replied begrudging, "you could say that."
Allius laughed. "Do not feel bad officer, he is clever. He has certainly proven to be more of a threat than he first appears. He was always causing trouble for my parents and the royal guard stationed at the palace."
Symond stood. "Never on this scale, I presume."
"No, certainly never on this scale." Allius looked off into the distance thoughtfully.
"I am curious, my prince, and I hope I am not overstepping, but was this insurgency unexpected, or were there similar acts leading up to it?"