Dragon Drive: Full Burn

By Mitchell Koehler

With his weapon left in shambles, Crios found himself in need of a new design, and a desperate desire to grow stronger. Given a chance to be trained by a Top-Ranked Guildie, Crios left Sassoon, unaware of the wild adventure he was about to face. For those of Dragon's Den he left behind, they would find their skills and newfound fame put to the test. The machinations of Celestial Rim will be set in motion, throwing the whole of Carcanas into chaos, and bringing to light exactly what it means to have the power of a dragon.

• Language: English
• Publisher: Mitchell Koehler
• Release date: Mar 5, 2020
• ISBN: 9780463776933

Mitchell Koehler

I've been writing for about a decade now, mostly sci-fi, fantasy, or some mix of the two. I hope to expand my horizons a fair bit as time goes on, so look for more things from me in the future!

Book preview

Dragon Drive: Full Burn

By Mitchell Koehler

© 2020 Mitchell Koehler. All rights reserved.

--|- Arrival -|--

Crios grunted as Richard shook him awake. "Rise and shine, Crios.

We’re almost to Chewek." He dropped Crios’ stuffed duffle bag onto his chest with a thump, forcing Crios to sit up. Richard was wearing a t-shirt with a red tie-dye pattern, high-water jeans covered with holes, and a pair of brown hiking shoes. His black hair had been slicked back and covered in a red bandana.

Was that really necessary? Crios grumbled before stretching and yawning. Crios’ face had tanned somewhat from being constantly outside in the sun, jogging around the ship.

Richard woke Cloud up with a nudge before replying. It is if I want to actually get you up.

Cloud sat up sleepily and looked around the small room he and Crios shared. What’s going on? He asked with a distant voice. His fur had become somewhat disheveled during the trip, salt building up in his fur.

Apparently we’re almost there. Crios replied as he stood up and got dressed.

In only two days? Cloud said quizzically, looking to Richard, who was waiting in the doorway.

We took a route across the Ux Spouts. Richard explained. So of course it’s far faster than the detour.

"We did what?" Cloud asked, his sleepiness suddenly gone with the shock of disbelief.

It’s probably an Express Ship. Crios explained, stretching a final time. A hull of Mithril powering the props would get us across the Carnassian Ocean regardless of the wind.

But aren’t the tickets expensive? Cloud asked as he grabbed his hat and bags.

"I own a third of this ship! It pays to invest, boys." Richard replied with a chuckle.

Noted. Cloud said as he followed Crios out the door. Richard double checked the room before shutting the door as he left, following the others once he snagged his luggage. The hallways were narrow and led directly up onto the front deck. Most of the walls were made of thin white fiberglass, with wood trim along the floor and doorways. Richard never cared for Chewek’s hot, humid air, but neither Cloud nor Crios objected as they looked out from the prow of the ship with excited grins on their faces.

Chewek’s harbor was laid out in front of them, filled with vessels ranging from battleships armed with harpoons to tiny fishing boats. Chewek itself laid beyond, its tightly clustered skyscrapers connected by a chaotic spider web of wooden platforms and walkways strung up with cables and ropes, all of it looking as safe as a precarious rope bridge over a ravine. The pedestrians walking them were unperturbed as a gust of wind rocked the structures. The tethered dirigibles were also unfazed, large fans slowly moving them back into position.

Farther to the outside of the city were abandoned and collapsed buildings, overrun by ivy and trees. As Crios opened his mouth to ask about them, the ship started to turn away.

So what’s with- where are we going?

Richard waved a hand dismissively. We’re just waiting our turn to dock, so we don’t crash. Now what were you going to ask?

The abandoned buildings? Crios replied, thumbing towards Chewek. I know Sassoon has a giant empty section of the city, but it’s nowhere near the harbor.

Chewek is a smaller city. Richard replied simply, shrugging. I’d think the Skyway would have interested you more.

I already know about that wooden deathtrap. Crios replied with a snort. I helped with some tension calculations for some new supports.

So what’s up there? Cloud asked, looking to Crios.

Guild shops, mostly. It’s a lot like the Nest back in Sassoon, actually. Crios replied.

Richard nodded. Aye. And they would have tried to build something similar themselves, but the rock they built the city on has become so permeable that the old subway tunnels fill and empty with the tide. The rock itself is a solid foundation, but it’s no better than a sponge when it comes to water.

Crios cocked an eyebrow. How the hell did the rock get like that?

Word is some kind of Ux contamination in the sewers played a part. Richard replied. Other than that, it’s all a mystery.

As the boat started turning back towards Chewek during its lazy circle, Richard checked his phone. The irritated look on his face made Crios cock an eyebrow.

Expecting a message?

My friend who we’ll be staying with hasn’t gotten back to me yet. I was hoping to surprise him with who I was training. He shut his phone as he realized something. Oh, and speaking of the training; Cloud, have you done any sort of training in the past? He looked to the Flox.

I was a mailman for most of my life, so I can fly without problems.

Cloud replied, wiggling a wing.

So you have a strong idea on how to use your Ux? Richard asked.

Cloud nodded. But my Air Ux is the Type I’ve used the most.

Crios frowned. I thought most Monsters only have one Type.

Floxes are part of the exception. Cloud explained, holding up his hands. A small bubble of water formed in one, and ball of wood in the other.

Wood is my strongest Type, followed by Air, and then Water.

In any case, Richard looked to Crios. What about you? Your uncle said you’re good at hand-to-hand and especially handling weapons, but I know little of your ability to use Ux.

Crios rubbed his neck, looking sheepishly towards the deck of the ship. Uh, well, that’s because I can’t, really. He tapped his chest as he explained. The best guess is that my heart interferes so much with my Ux I can’t effectively use it, turning it into a mess of Types. Vacuum, and to a lesser extent, Crystal, are my two strongest.

Hmm! Richard exclaimed. Vacuum is pretty rare on its own. I’ve never actually seen someone use Crystal.

Sorry to disappoint but… Crios help up a finger, staring at it for a minute before a faint twist of grey formed at its tip and vanished with a pop, leaving only a drop of water. Crios flicked it towards the deck. The vacuum forces the water in the air to condense. He explained with a shrug.

Richard nodded thoughtfully. "We’ll see what we can do with it.

What about your physical limitations? I know you have the raw strength to handle a Heavy Blade."

Crios wiggled a hand. I can lift about three hundred pounds? I admit I haven’t really paid attention to that. I can probably do more if I bothered to work out.

The ship took a sharp turn from its circling, heading straight for Chewek. So, what are we going to do when we reach the dock? Cloud asked.

I’m all for getting some breakfast. Crios suggested. And maybe exploring the city.

Richard sighed. The exploration can wait until we can travel unburdened. He thumped his suitcase against his leg. Food, we can get.

And on the subject of ‘buying’ things… Cloud began. I only have about five-hundred Ere.

Crios chuckled. I have eleven I forgot in my laundry.

Richard sighed. Really, Crios? Cloud at least has some money on him. I have enough for all of us. Though I expect you to put that brain and brawn to good use between now and when we ship back to Sassoon.

Yessir! Crios exclaimed, jumping to attention.

At ease. Richard retorted with a sardonic look.

The ship was now only a few dozen feet away from a large central dock. A number of other ships were moored along it, Richard’s ship being the only passenger vessel. Before Richard could stop him, Crios jumped from the ship’s handrail to the dock, walking alongside it as it floated father into the harbor.

Crios! Richard called angrily.

Leave him be! The captain called from above the cabin. Men like him can’t be held back, even if you tried. Richard glanced back up at the captain, his objection clear on his face, but the captain merely nodded knowingly.

The ship came to a stop halfway along the dock, Crios easily helping the deckhands hold and tie down the ship. He gave Richard a wide grin as he was tossed his luggage. Long time no see, Richy!

Har har. Richard replied, stiffening a little as some Guildies passed nearby. He hopped off the ship and turned to give the captain a brief salute.

Let’s see if that sense a humor stays once you really start training.

Cloud joined the two, floating just behind them as the group walked down the dock towards Chewek. So what kind of food is here?

Crios did a quick sniff, scrunching his nose a little. All I’m getting is salt and fish.

Well you’re not wrong. Richard replied, skirting to the side as more Guildies passed. Once we get close to the market, you should be able to find something more appetizing.

…Not one for the people here, Richard? Crios asked with a hint of curiosity.

A low profile and not getting punched off the dock go hand in hand, Crios. Especially around here. Richard replied. I’d appreciate if you’d at least wait till tomorrow before starting a fight.

Well, at least until we’re off the dock. Crios replied with a nervous chuckle. I’m not a particularly good swimmer…

Really? Cloud asked curiously as he settled onto Crios’ shoulders.

What would you have done if we had to jump off the ship?

"I didn’t say I couldn’t swim, just that I’m bad at it. I can doggy paddle. Crios retorted, mimicking the motion. It’s fitting, really."

At the end of the dock was a gateway with two armed guards, eyeing Richard and his comrades suspiciously. Richard flashed two tickets to the closest one who nodded them through.

Only two tickets? Crios asked once the guards were out of earshot.

Welllll… Richard stopped and turned back to face the two. Here’s the thing: Monsters are kind of just classified as ‘pets’ here. There’s no need for verification documents, but suddenly being the target for Beastmasters is an issue. He nodded to Cloud. Which means you shouldn’t go anywhere without someone you trust.

Cloud puffed up. I can handle a few Beastmasters.

Right. Now, what are you two hungry for? Richard asked, turning back around.

The food cart right there seems appealing enough. Crios replied, tapping Richard’s shoulder and pointing to his two-o-clock. The elderly man running the cart was vigorously cooking something in a large round pan. And it looks like squid, not fish. He added, tapping his nose.

Richard glanced back at Crios, and then to Cloud, who shrugged.

Let’s see what they have at least. Cloud said.

The three hurried towards the food cart, weaving through the busy crowd on their way. The cart itself was made of dark brown wood, with a small roof built overhead that was painted a bright red. Golden serpents wound up the four pillars that held up the roof, and four collapsible stools were set up along the length of the cart. A red paper lantern with Eastern lettering hung from the Eastward side. The elderly man serving someone a to-go meal turned towards Crios’ group expectantly. Crios thought his choice of a red long-sleeved jacket and matching pants ill-fitted the weather, but the man’s eyes were bright and energetic as he looked between the three.

Not exactly much pre-made… Richard said quietly as he looked over the cluttered kitchenette.

Crios chuckled, admiring some grilling squid. "That’s because it’s fantastic cooking. He looked up to the elderly man. What’s on the menu?"

The man grunted in reply, pointing to a board hanging just under the roof.

The three glanced up and collectively frowned, Crios’ turning into a grin as he chuckled again. Huiguorou, baozi… Ooo!! Chaomian! His grin vanished as Cloud, Richard, and the elderly cook all gave him confused looks.

Your accent is surprising good! Someone exclaimed from behind them.

Crios glanced sideways as a young man rounded the cart with a basket full of fresh food on his back, and his arms full of fresh fish on lines. He was dressed in the same attire as the elderly man, who was quick to handle the fresh produce, muttering to himself.

You can thank the late-night cooking shows in Sassoon for that.

Crios replied, then glancing to his still confused comrades. I cook.

In any case, The young man continued, now free of the fish and basket. He stepped back to the front of the cart with a gentle bound, giving a quick bow. It’s nice to hear someone cares enough to pronounce them properly. My name is Tang, and this is my grandfather. Tang’s hair was a dark black, cut short in the front and longer in the back. His grandfather said something angrily in Eastern before he could continue. Oh, uh, he wants to know if you were in fact ordering for everyone? Tang looked to Crios.

Crios glanced over to Richard. Up for stir-fried noodles? Pork, duck, chicken?

Chicken? Richard replied with a shrug.

Cloud nodded with approval, making Crios look back to Tang. Looks like three orders of chaomian.

After a short sentence from Tang, his grandfather set to work. Now sit! Please. I’m afraid you caught us in the middle of our prep work, so there will be a wait. As Richard and Crios sat, Tang nabbed one of the smaller grilled squids, slicing the oblong body into fourths and serving Crios and Richard some in a bowl. Something to tide you over… He offered Cloud a piece directly, who took it and popped it into his mouth immediately. His tail started to wag as Tang pet his head.

It’s really rather cute, isn’t it? What’s its name? Tang asked.

Cloud. Cloud replied after swallowing. Tang froze immediately, making Crios and Cloud chuckle.

My impression is that he likes attention, so don’t worry about the petting. Crios said reassuringly, poking Cloud’s footpads. "Though what’s funny is he’s twenty-seven."

Cloud held up his hand to show his wedding ring. And happily married!

To a… Tang glanced to Crios. "Human?

Richard broke down, cackling, as Crios immediately put up his hands.

"No. To a little pink she-Flox back in Sassoon. He just likes to sit there."

Ah. Now what about you two? What are your names? Tang asked.

Crios… and this is Richard. Crios replied, looking to the still quietly chortling man next to him.

And we’re here to train! Cloud added.

Oh? Guildies? Tang asked.

Richard nodded, wiping tears from his face. Aye, I’m the one training them. I’ve retired from most Guild work, but they need a crash-course.

That’s very generous! Tang replied, slipping back behind the cart to help dish out the stir-fry. He popped his slightly cold slice of squid into his mouth as the three began to eat, Cloud’s bowl nestled on Crios’ hat.

To be honest though, Richard continued. "Crios is my main concern. He’s shown promise, but he’s about as refined as a hunk of asphalt.

Cloud merely had convenient timing."

Oh! Crios exclaimed between mouthfuls. Did you two hear about the Black Monster?

Black Monster!? Tang’s father exclaimed, making everyone jump.

Richard chuckled at the man’s startled face. Looks like a no.

Crios drew a finger across his neck. He’s dead.

Cloud patted the side of Crios’ face, much to his annoyance. And Crios is the one you have to thank!

I’m surprised neither of you heard. Richard added. It was all over the place in Sassoon.

Ah, but why were you not swarmed right off the boat? Tang countered. "Now while I am inclined to believe you, it’s still a hard thing to believe. Eat, eat. I can’t talk forever."

As the group finished their meal, Tang and his grandfather had a conversation in Eastern as they prepped food for the day. Tang’s grandfather nodded near the end of it, and they finished their prep work in silence.

Crios let out a satisfied sigh as he put his fork into his empty bowl.

That was some of the best food I’ve had in years.

Richard nodded in agreement as he dug for his wallet. And it doesn’t cost an arm and a leg, too.

Tang grinned as his grandfather handled the money. Then I should expect to see you again sometime, yes?

Definitely. Crios replied with a grin. He tilted his head as Tang’s grandfather dropped a satchel of something in front of him.

A gift! Tang explained. A seasoning mix from my homeland.

Crios gave it a curious sniff. Ohh! Smells great for a roast.

Well, it’s time for us to go. Richard said as he stood up, retrieving his suitcase from in front of his stool.

Yes, yes! Tang replied with a nod. We have to continue preparing ourselves. The hungry workers come by in less than an hour, and they’re rather grumpy at this time of day.

With a final wave to the two, Richard led Crios up the nearby staircase and towards downtown Chewek.

Well they were very nice people! Hopefully everyone we meet is like them. Cloud said.

Don’t get your hopes up too high. Richard replied.

There’s something about them that bothers me, though. Crios said, scratching his chin. I can’t quite place it.

My guess is the Black Monster is why they’re here. Richard said quietly. He tended to favor terrorizing the East. You’re probably picking up on them avoiding that subject.

Crios frowned, before immediately dropping his jaw. "I know what it was! Tang’s grandfather didn’t have an accent! He can speak western!"

Richard paused briefly before laughing. "Yeah, you’re right! Heh.

Anyway, where we’re headed is this way." He waved them after him as he turned East, leading them farther into Chewek.

--|-Schemes -|--

You know, these streets look oddly familiar. Crios commented as he glanced at one of the storm drains. The drains look just like Sassoon’s.

That’s because they were made by the same people. Richard explained. The cities, I mean. They were built during the Second Great War as part of the same country, and had been split by the time of the Third, with their capital being where the desert is to the South. It was annihilated by the dragons.

Crios whistled. That would explain all the metal in the sandstone there. Should have paid more attention to my history lessons.

It’s not taught in school. Richard replied. "At least not in Sassoon. I learned it myself through reading a book in the A History of the Great Wars series."

"You what!?" Cloud exclaimed excitedly, nearly jumping from Crios’

shoulders. Those books are hundreds of years old! The newest one is nearly fifty!

Crios frowned a little before stopping to dig into his bag. Richard cocked an eyebrow until Crios pulled out the book he had on the Legendary Weapons. Hmm! A hundred and thirty-two.

What. Richard said flatly, staring at the rather worn tome.

Crios flashed the cover, showing the simple black text and read it out. A History of the Great Wars: Weapons of the Great Wars.

"I- Crios that’s one of five known copies. I assume it was your dad’s, but you’re taking care of it, right?" Richard asked.

Crios laughed, flipping it open to show him scribbles and notes in the margins. "Better than he did. I’ve memorized it a long while ago so- yes Cloud, I’ll let you read it." Crios patted the side of the Flox’s head, which had been slowly inching its way into his field of vision from above his head.

Richard started walking again. Of course I’d like to read it myself, but we’re just about there and… Richard’s words failed him as he turned the corner and saw a burnt out lot at the far end of the street. Crios scrambled to put his book away as Richard ran down the street, catching up to him not long after.

This, this was Styx Fix. Richard said quietly. As Richard stared in disbelief, Crios looked at what remained in the empty lot.

Aside from the group of men Crios’ age kicking around a ball, not much was there. The concrete foundation was cracked, and some charred debris were still left in piles at the far corners of the lot. Some Inferno Plums, the Fire Ux fruit, were growing in the piles. The surrounding apartment buildings looked like they had been damaged and repaired by what was clearly a raging fire.

Richard approached the men in the lot before Crios could say anything. One popped up the ball with his toe when he noticed Richard.

Excuse me, but could any of you tell me what the hell happened here?

A fire, what else? One replied, making the others chuckle.

Listen here you- Crios stopped Richard with a hand as he stepped forward himself and cleared his throat.

I’m sure that’s just hilarious, but since I assume this is where a Guild used to be, do you think you can be less of an ass about it?

The man puffed up. Alright pipsqueak; Styx Fix is toast. Felix and his band of idiots stood up to the wrong people, and they got what they deserved.

And since when do petty Guild squabbles lead to something like this? Crios asked angrily, gesturing to the lot.

A voice answered from behind Crios. Who said we were a Guild?

Crios glanced back to find three middle aged men standing in the street, all three sporting matching sabres. He would be less concerned if they were still sheathed. All three were dressed in black pants, dark blue shirts, and dark blue bandanas.

…Pirates? Cloud said quizzically.

Pirates. The man who spoke before said with a grin.

The Harbormasters, to be specific. One of the young men in the lot explained. I figured they would be interested to know some of Felix’s friends showed up.

Aye! And ya did good, kid. The pirate continued, sauntering forward. With a nudge from Crios, Cloud floated up. "Never expected Crios bloody Myshcell to show up."

Crios, I want you to step back. Richard’s voice was stern as he dropped his luggage and raised his hands.

Crios glanced back, eyeing the eager faces of the young men. Would punching them in the face be too much? He stopped as he spotted more men coming from the South. …How many pirates is too many to fight?

The three in the street laughed before charging at Richard and Crios, one slashing their sabre at Richard while the other two moved to flank Crios.

Richard dodged out of the way, while Crios dropped his luggage and charged ahead, much to the surprise of the attacking pirates. What was even more surprising was that he didn’t try to dodge one of their thrusts, taking the tip of a sword through his shoulder before breaking the owner’s nose with a punch, knocking him out immediately.

Crios!! Cloud exclaimed in horror.

Crios pulled the sabre out of his shoulder and turned to the remaining pirate, aware of the men running at him from behind. I’ve survived worse! Rich- He stopped as a blast of ice was launched at the remaining pirate, Richard sporting a slash across his chest. We’ve got to run!

Crios gave him a nod, hurrying forward to block the blade of the remaining pirate, dropping the sabre to grab the man’s free arm. The young men in the lot had no time to react before Crios unceremoniously threw the man on top of them.

I’ll be back for you some day! Crios called to them before dashing with Richard northward, grabbing their luggage as they ran.

That was beyond stupid of you Crios! Richard yelled, glancing at his shoulder.

And it’s already stopped bleeding! Crios retorted. While you’re currently bleeding all over the place.

Richard glanced down at his chest, his blood seeping into his shirt.

Shit…

What are we going to do!? Cloud asked hysterically, flapping frantically above them. We can’t run forever!

Then we won’t. Crios replied.

Crios, the alley! Richard pointed to a narrow gap between two buildings coming up on their left. It’ll at least force them to come one at a time.

Crios nodded, before snatching Cloud out of the air. The two skidded as they turned, Richard following behind Crios as Crios pushed through the trash in the way. The alley was just wide enough for the two to squeeze through, and they could hear shouting at the far end once they emerged.

Now I guess we’ll-

Crios!?

Crios jumped as a man behind him called his name. He turned around to see two men in overalls loading a large transport truck. The man quickly looked between Crios, Richard, and Cloud before immediately pointing into the truck. Go go go! I work for Tommori!

Crios grinned, grabbing Richard’s arm and dragging him into the back of the truck while the man pulled down the door and locked it in place.

Richard had no time to argue as he tried to catch his breath. The three panted with hands over their mouths as people stormed past the truck.

You two! Where’d they go!?

Oh, the three that came out the alley? They continued down that one. A different man replied. The men were bleeding rather badly.

A number of curses were exclaimed before the men dashed off, and the truck was once again silent. Someone knocked on the outside of the truck.

Yeah, it looks like one of our tires is losing air and can’t put anything more in if we want to keep it from poppin’. Once we fix it, we’ll be by for the rest later today, when we come back for a smaller order.

After a short exchange, someone knocked on the truck again, but this time the rear door opened a little. "Hang tight in there. We’ll be at the

warehouse soon enough." With the door shut once again, the truck was started and they drove off.

That was close. Cloud commented, the first to regain his breath.

I don’t want to think about what would happen if we had to fight all of them. Crios replied. He glanced over to Richard, who was gingerly touching his wounds.

We could have escaped if we weren’t injured. Richard replied with a sigh. Speaking of, how bad is your shoulder, Crios?

Like I said, the bleeding has stopped, and there’s little loss of movement. Crios replied, rolling his injured shoulder. Looks like you need some help. Hold still…

Richard was about to ask what Crios was going to do when he heard the rip of fabric and felt Crios rolling up his shirt.

I’ll center the roll of your shirt over the wound as best I can and tie it with mine. Try to hold still. Crios explained as he worked.

I never took you for a nurse… And I’m impressed you can actually see what you’re doing. Richard said, wincing as Crios put pressure on his wound.

Basic first aid was the first thing my uncle taught me, well before fighting. Crios explained, backing away once he tied his ripped shirt around Richard. And I’ve always been able to see in the dark.

So where are we going? Cloud asked. After this warehouse the guy mentioned.

I don’t know. Richard replied. "It all depends on what exactly is going on in Chewek. Pirates are the last thing I’d ever think to see in the city."

Why do you think we didn’t hear about them before we arrived?

Cloud asked. That fire looks like it happened some time ago.

Richard shrugged. I can’t say. Chewek doesn’t like talking about internal issues. My best guess is they started harassing Guilds discreetly before making a scene. Styx Fix could have been attacked to serve as an example for the rest.

The group grew quiet as the truck came to stop and the engine was turned off. They gathered by the door and waited for the knock. Two short taps later, and the door to the truck was rolled up, two tan-faced men looking quizzically between them. They both grinned wide when Crios gave them a thumbs up.

C’mon then, you two, let’s get you patched up. The closest one said, moving to help Richard.

Crios jumped out on his own, stopping to take a look around. The large metal building they were in was unremarkable, with walls and racks piled high with crates and pallets, and ripe with the smell of salt, metal, and damp wood.

Crios jumped a little when a hand clamped down on his uninjured shoulder, the second man gesturing to his wound. How bad is it?

Crios waved a hand dismissively. It’ll be fine. I just need to get the blood off and cover it up.

The man nodded, offering a hand. Holt. The other fella is Malcolm.

Crios shook Holt’s hand and walked alongside them towards the warehouse’s break area. Crios, Richard, and Cloud were already the center of attention of the warehouse’s workers.

How bad is it, Malcolm!? Holt called.

A few stitches and he’ll be fine. Already called the doc. Malcolm replied, dabbing around Richard’s wounds.

So how dis all happen? One of the onlookers asked, looking to Holt.

A bad run in with the Harbormasters, it seems. Holt replied. He gave Crios a gentle push forward. No doubt due to the hard-headed egghead.

More like we were tattled on. Richard replied. Now Crios, as much as I appreciate not being dead thanks to these two, He gestured to Hold and Malcolm. I’d like to know why they’re sticking their necks out for us.

"Because he’s Crios! Holt replied with a chuckle. Tommori would never let us hear the end of it if we let his friend get captured by pirates!"

What’s going on here!? A man called angrily as he approached the gathering. Get back to work! He grimaced when he saw Richard, looking to Malcolm expectantly.

Hey, boss, I’ve got someone here for you to meet! Holt exclaimed, dragging Crios after him.

Outside of Richard Griffin? The newcomer asked, looking sideways to Holt.

Crios, our supervisor Ted; Ted, Crios Myshcell.

Ted’s eyebrows shot up. "The Crios Myshcell? The one from the mineshaft incident?"

Crios nodded. Aye. Never thought I’d be famous from that though.

Well, we still have a job to do. Ted looked around at the gathered workers. Unload that truck and hop to it. Billy, you’re on truck duty until Holt and Malcolm are done. Ted continued as the workers grumbled. "Now,

should I call- He stopped when he spotted two people jogging their way with red bags. Well. There they are." Ted nodded to Crios, then to Richard, before walking off to return to work.

… I’m a little freaked out right now. Cloud said, putting up his hands. Crios, just what the hell is going on?

You didn’t tell them? Holt asked Crios with a laugh.

Crios shrugged. It didn’t come up! He sat down at the table next to Richard. Holt sat down as well with an excited look on his face.

So a few years ago, one of Yitkin’s largest mines had a catastrophic collapse. Crios began. "By that time, I already had a reputation for solving difficult Krux and mechanical problems on the Nexus. Granted it’s a niche chatroom, and I use hypothesis’ and theory to reach a solution more often than not. Anyway, Tommori found his way there, finding little help elsewhere.

He already had a list of literally everything they had on hand, including products meant for other people.

I logged on after a day of working with my uncle, finding they had managed to get a ventilation system working, but nothing else.

And that’s when you swooped in with a solution? Richard asked with a cynical smile.

Crios chuckled quietly. "In a way. I read through the chat log and asked about the specifics of the collapse. In short, someone hit a large pocket of heavy metal in the upper sandstone layer, and it all just cascaded from there, collapsing the entire western half of the mine. We later learned how many casualties there were, but the focus was on those who were still trapped. Using maps of the tunnels and rock layers, Tommori’s radio system, an old sonar dish, and some truly janky formulas from yours truly, we found the safest route to them. The calculations were done by someone with the hardware to do so, as even I can’t crank out an answer fast enough. From there, building the Plasma drill was easy."

Cloud held up a hand. "The what? "

"Oh! Well, Tommori had Plasma Krux meant for cutting metal, so I had him take those, an old tunnel boring machine, and a Fire