Chapter 12:
Re:Admin
The Mobile Command Center traveled throughout the night. The engine hummed, Tundra breathed gently while resting, Eyrie slept softly, all sounds inside the car. Admin, Mirai, kept a close watch, noticing everything nearby. The realization they got close to a kingdom built with people working against their will cast a shadow over their journey.
The sun came up, painting the sky rose, gold colors. The view changed. Hills gave way to big fields, readied with care, stretching far away. In the distance, tall walls with gleaming towers came into view, marking the location of the Kingdom of Arcvon.
The leader slowed the team vehicle, his hand moving to the controls. “We’re here,” he told everyone, speaking softly.
Mirai gazed at the incredible scenery, experiencing a mix of awe, concern. “This is… beautiful.”. This is frightening, also
As they approached, they saw creatures nearby. People working the farms moved through the fields, taking their time, feeling tired. Armed officers traveled the streets, appearing focused, watching closely. Folks experienced fear, a strong concern spread throughout the nation.
The team leader halted their vehicle at a crossroads close to the city gate. He saw lots of people waiting in line for the Arcvonian guards to examine them.
“What’s the plan?” Mirai asked, her hand resting on the grip of her sword.
“Let’s be careful,” Admin stated. “We don’t want to draw attention to ourselves.”. Let's seem calm, at least for a bit, while we figure out what is happening
He woke Tundra, he woke Eyrie too. People emerged from the vehicle, blinking to adjust their vision.
“Are we there yet?” Eyrie questioned, rubbing her eyes.
The leader briefly nodded. “We are here, Eyrie.”. Things didn’t turn out as we expected, honestly
He swiftly shared their findings about Arcvon, its reliance on workers compelled to work. Eyrie seemed troubled, she appeared unhappy. Tears filled her eyes, she felt sorrow, she felt rage.
She said, her voice trembled, “We need to help those people. We need to free those held as slaves.”
“Here’s the plan,” Admin announced, confident in their voice. “We should consider things closely, however.”. Let’s not quickly start shooting. We need to gather information, find the hostages, then figure out how to get them to safety
He looked at Tundra. “Tundra, you stay focused during tough times.”. See what unfolds, understand its importance, then assist me with developing a strategy
Tundra nodded slowly, seeming to consider things carefully. “I understand,” she told the leader. I can assist with any task you have, just let me know
Admin took a deep breath, then went to the city gate. He knew Arcvon presented risks. The newcomers hadn't lived here long, their headquarters seemed quite unlike what the Arcvonians were used to. They understood the task, had a good purpose, determined to complete it, no matter how hard it became.
As Admin approached the city gates, a feeling of threat washed over them. It felt like entering a location teeming with secret foes. A gloomy mood settled over the area, the shadows of Arcvon seemed to press against people. The group reached Arcvon’s world now. It’s unclear what their future holds.
The Mobile Command Center stood out like a sore thumb. People watched it, discussing it in hushed tones. Carriages pulled by oxen, carts loaded with goods, weary people on foot, they appeared tiny beside the powerfully defended large creature. Soldiers from Arcvonia, clad in gleaming metal suits displaying a griffon emblem, observed the recreational vehicle with suspicion.
Admin seemed confident, though he actually felt doubtful. He rolled down the RV window as a big guard, with a scar on his left eye, approached.
“Let me see your papers,” the guard demanded, sounding rough.
Admin pretended to be clueless. “Where are the papers?”? What documents do you mean?
“Your entry papers,” the guard repeated, his hand resting on his sword. “You must have the correct documents to enter Arcvon.”. Share your identity, your purpose, your skills. It’s the usual information
Admin gave a small smile. “We do not have those, I’m afraid.”. We won't be here for much time, honestly. Those who explore, maybe
The guard studied their faces. “So you travel, I gather,” he stated. What is in there? I haven’t seen this happen before. What’s inside your bag?
“I simply wished to be of assistance,” Admin remarked, with a warm smile.
The guard thought the story was not true. He waved to another officer. Another guard began to patrol the portable headquarters, running a hand along the metal walls.
“I want to check inside,” the guard stated. “We’ll examine your horse-less transport device.”
Admin stopped, feeling hesitant. He knew allowing the guards to search the RV might cause problems for everyone. Refusing requests could lead to more difficulties.
Eyrie spoke up fast, stopping Admin from answering. “Sir,” she said softly, her voice clear. “We aren’t trying to make problems.”. I was born in Arcvon. I believe my family still lives here
The guard seemed a bit nicer. He went to the window, watching Eyrie.
“Are you from Arcvon?” he asked, his voice softer. “What’s your name?”
Eyrie stopped, then said, “My name is Eyrie.”
The guard seemed to consider it for a moment. He saw Admin once more. “Alright,” he said. “You are allowed to pass.”. I really mean it, don’t get into any problems. Residents of Arcvon do not like guests who cause trouble. If someone suggests you meddle in things that don’t concern you, I will put you in the dungeon.
Admin gave approval. They spoke, saying, “Alright.”. We’re going now
The guard shifted, then Admin drove the Mobile Command Center into the city. He noticed the guard smiled at Eyrie as they passed.
We arrived in the city, it seemed changed. The streets bustled with people. People called out to sell items, important people rode in decorated seats, laborers transported difficult loads. Admin saw problems developing, a nervous atmosphere spread, folks appeared frightened, like someone held power over them.
He drove slowly, looking for people on the crowded streets. Mirai, Tundra, Eyrie gazed from the windows, watching Arcvon’s sights, sounds.
“This is amazing,” Mirai said quietly, “but it makes me feel sad.”
“Look,” Eyrie said, pointing to the people. Men, women, shackled with chains, soldiers pushed them along with their weapons. “Those people are slaves.”
Admin gripped the steering wheel. He wanted to stop what was happening, participate, however he knew it would create significant risk. The team gathered information, then found a safe place to plan their next move.
They went deeper into the city, noticing small acts of resistance, subtle displays of disagreement. Folks talked softly, a person glanced about stealthily, a snapped chain rested ignored. Small acts of resistance cheered up Eyrie. People living in Arcvon probably desired freedom, therefore they fought back to protect themselves.
He eventually found a peaceful spot near the city limits. He steered the control hub toward the town's central area, attempting to blend in with the surrounding traffic.
“Right,” Admin said to the group. “Let’s start gathering information.”. Tundra, see how safe the city is. Mirai, keep an eye out for people who oppose us, alert me if you see something. Discover information regarding your origins, your family
He paused, glanced at the group, then warned them to be careful. We face trouble now, surrounded by folks who wish we would leave. Watch out, do not trust people
Admin, Mirai, traveled with Eyrie to the busy Arcvonian marketplace, acting like tourists. Tundra stayed with the Mobile Command Center, inspecting its equipment. The air buzzed with smells of spice, roast meat, crowds, lively bartering, it all felt like too much. Admin tried to seem relaxed, however, the gloomy atmosphere caused difficulty.
Mirai, a keen observer, looked at everyone nearby to identify those who disagreed with the leaders. She observed how people walked, listened to soft conversations, studied their expressions.
Eyrie's heart beat fast, she felt hopeful, yet scared. She searched for familiar faces, locations, objects, anything offering a clue to her family’s whereabouts. She approached store owners, asking for basic facts about the town, the residents, hoping to discover helpful information.
Admin watched his companions, however he attempted to blend in with the group, gathering information as he did so. He observed the guards, the rich, the poor, to discover who had power, and who could assist him.
Mirai strolled with Admin around the market. She tugged his arm, speaking softly. "I notice something I like, it's close to the well."
Admin followed her gaze. He saw a small group gathered near the well, they talked softly, leaning toward one another. They appeared ordinary, however, their actions showed they were more than just friends.
“I’m not sure,” Mirai replied, “but checking this out feels right.”
Admin said okay. The group strolled to the well, seeming interested in getting a drink. As they got closer, they heard pieces of the other people’s conversation.
Individuals compelled to work arrived here today
Leaders now expect more from everyone, they are less flexible
I want to take action, yet I do not know the best course
Admin glanced at Mirai, they both knew what the other was thinking. We’re here now, ready to go. Individuals resisted. He took a deep breath, then walked forward.
He said, “Excuse me for butting in, I overheard your conversation.”. My friends, we just arrived here. We really do not approve of slavery, either
Folks close to the well grew still, they watched the pair with worry.
"Who are you?" a muscular man asked, his gaze firm. "Why should we trust you?"
He said, “I'm the Admin, This is Mirai, this is Eyrie.”. We journeyed far, reaching Arcvon hoping for a just outcome. Eyrie came from Arcvon, she believes her family is still held captive. We help people, without charge
People held their breath, expecting something to happen. Neighbors gathered around the well, carefully watching to see if the people were telling the truth. A slender fellow began speaking.
“I’m Kaelen,” he said. “This is Elara, this is Bram, this is Myra.”. We join forces with the Arcvonian Resistance. For generations, individuals fought to abolish slavery, yet now there are fewer people working on it with weaker resources. We could use support from people we know.
He paused, meeting the Admin’s gaze. “Why should we trust you?”
Admin met Kaelen’s gaze, speaking honestly. “You can do this, Kaelen.”. We will support our values. We easily stand against things that aren’t right, immediately. We will help you.
Kaelen thought for a moment, then agreed. “Alright,” he said, “I believe you.”. We need to be careful, however. Individuals collecting confidential details exist everywhere. Let’s not tell anyone about our work.
“Okay,” Admin replied. “What’s next?”?
Kaelen signaled for the others to come closer. He talked softly, explaining the group’s goals, their method, their predictions. Admin listened, a hopeful feeling grew inside. Folks found buddies for support. A fight for freedom in Arcvon begins shortly.
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