Firebird

Chapter 9- When Things Go Wrong

   Chalavar stared down at his broken performer a moment before turning to the crowd. “Who put the Death Wheel together today?”

   No one answered verbally. A few raised their hands slowly without a shred of confidence.

   He shot a disgusted looked at Pheller. His evil eyes flashed and he flipped his jacket tail with a twirl of his scepter. “Is anyone willing to take care of him? If not, I will.”

   Many raised their hands. More than I could count. I did myself. I didn’t know Pheller well but didn’t trust that Chalavar’s idea of ‘taking care of’ was the same as ours.

    “I don’t want to see him until he can perform again. Now, those of you that set up the Death Wheel, come with me.” He strode through again, this time leading a short line of sullen and terrified looking men.

   As soon as they were gone, people scrambled around, gathering bandages, a stretcher, ice, and cloths to clean his wounds.

   I wasn’t sure how I could help. I would’ve if I knew how. I moved out of the way and watched as Fargus and Barnabus lifted Pheller onto the makeshift stretcher.

   “Let’s go.” Ryo said. I hadn’t known she was beside me until she spoke.

   I noticed her limp and slid an arm under her shoulders to help her. Two injuries in one day. I doubt that was usual. Everything normally seemed safe and carefree.

   It was cold out. Maybe it’s the forever feeling that’s made it seem like it’s been cloudy for weeks. I missed the sun and warm air.

   I walked Ryo to her tent. She fell into her cot with a pained sigh. I stood in the opening a moment to make sure she didn’t need anything else. And I just didn’t feel like going back to my own tent. I’d be alone with my thoughts. They would only toy with me into insanity. I suppose that’s an exaggeration…

   She finally looked up at me. Sensing my feelings she said, “You can stay awhile.”

   “I don’t have to.”

   “You don’t have anything better to do. Nor do I.”

   I could tell she was tired but she sounded sincere when saying I could stay. I still couldn’t tell whether I was a bother to her or if she didn’t mind. She wasn’t open with me.

   It was much warmer inside. I didn’t know tents could hold so much heat with no source. One of the perks of magic I suppose. I sat on a wooden stool. Almost everyone had one. They were intricately carved and made of a light wood. I wondered who made them but didn’t ask. It wasn’t important anyway.

   “What’s wrong, Ryo?” I asked. That was what had been on my mind. Her and, of course, Pheller. I planned on checking on him later. Astley would probably update me when I went back to my tent (he always made sure he was my neighbor).