Perfect World Somewhere

Chapter 20

The next morning, she attended the drill and required classes. When the time came to go to work, there were two additional drivers in her escort. She was uncertain if it was for her protection, or to make sure she behaved.

It was a calm, breezy day in late spring. White clouds sailed across the sky, driven by a persistent wind. She held her cap against it. The maintenance door of the station was open, and she hurried through.

All of the Pruessian technicians were hard at work. The spark of Hir Volbergh's power grinder squealing against metal drew her attention, and the faint, sulfurous odor of diesel exhaust wafted from the arena outside.

Krept acknowledged her with its usual trill, programmed to recognize her on sight.

Hir Zilejager was back from Pruessia, and was in a discussion with Daddy.

Daddy smiled weakly when he saw her. He wore a black leather eye patch to conceal his injury.

She gave the proper salute.

"You may be at ease," Hir Zilejager said. "I wish to speak with you, and your father. Come inside, please." He waved them into his office, and closed the door. His gaunt features were drawn with concern. He addressed them in Pruessian, clasping his hands behind his back. "I appealed to the legislators in Moskloberg, when I received news of your arrest, and they've granted you both temporary asylum. You may continue working until your trial. I'm sure you won't object, as it's more tolerable than losing your sanity in a detention cell."

Daddy bowed his head. "Thank you, sir."

"After observing the security footage, I'm convinced you acted in self-defense." Hir Zilejager paused, and looked at Lily. "If I were in the situation, Civilian Fairpoole, I would have reacted in a similar manner. I...have a daughter, about the same age. Hir Weingert's death is unfortunate, but I daresay he brought it upon himself."

Daddy stared at Hir Zilejager for several seconds, and a quiet understanding passed between them. "I appreciate your consideration, sir. But is it true that we face murder charges?"

"I'm afraid so. Hir Weingert's associates are part of a brotherhood, which protects its own rather vehemently. In the past, they've been known to use subversion and violence in seeking their revenge. I've spoken with your warden, and also to Fru Haeveka. We've placed heightened surveillance around you, and will respond to any suspicious activity."

This explained the reason for the extra drivers in her escort. Her dread and curiosity formed an uneasy blend, and she asked the question that tormented her. "Is Myrktilhet trying to kill us?"

Hir Zilejager shifted his stance. "As you always ask so plainly, Korenzdit, I'll be frank in return. I believe they're capable, and that they will pursue you in this case. Unfortunately, no one knows their motives. All we can do is remain watchful."

Daddy broke the uneasy silence. "I have another concern."

"Go on."

"This injury is affecting my work. I can't see anything on my right side, and I've got a headache from straining my good eye. I'm not sure I can stay on the project like this."

Lily gasped, and grabbed his sleeve with both hands. "No, Daddy, don't leave."

Hir Zilegager watched with a surprised expression.

She let go of Daddy with a start. "I'm sorry, sir. I got carried away, that's all."

"There's no need to apologize." Hir Zilejager smiled. "I have something for you, Civilian. I meant to give it to you earlier, but it's been a hectic day." He opened a supply cabinet filled with piles of robotic parts and tattered notebooks. Bits of paper scrawled with diagrams and intricate equations were tacked erratically to the sides.