Children of the War

Part 7

A week passed. Walter endured more intense questioning by Commander Udensnacht, and worked extra hard to appear a loyal Kaezer youth.

Nyborg threw more propaganda at him, filling his mind with everything he needed to survive as a fully adopted member of his new society.

There was no further insight from Resnakov about the restless troopers, and their plans to fight. But the big man seemed preoccupied, and told him to stay alert and ready for anything, both in the ring and out.

It signified to Walter that something was afoot.

A more disturbing and confusing moment came when he found a reply to his note, attached to Mr. Vincent's collar. It was scrawled on a piece of torn cloth, in what looked to be blood. "I didn't do anything. Leave me alone."

The words bothered him. He didn't know if it was Nathaniel's handwriting or not. Either way, he didn't dare use the cat as a go-between again. Anyone might find out, and it could be dangerous.

The opportunity to see Nathaniel finally came, after he spent a grueling afternoon with Commander Udensnacht.

"You have done well, Hir Marlow," the commander said. "As a reward for your loyalty, I am hereby granting you full entry into the youth corps."

"Thank you, sir," Walter said, saluting. He was truly grateful and relieved to hear it. This would afford him more ability to confer with Resnakov, and watch for opportunities to retaliate. Before he was dismissed, a bold streak compelled him. "May I present a request, Commander?"

Commander Udensnacht's smile was more of a sneer. "Of course, Hir Marlow."

"My friend, Nathaniel, is here. I've long wanted to visit him, but Hir Nyborg doesn't have the authority to allow it. Would it be possible..."

The commander interrupted, with an arrogant lift to his chin. "Possible to see your friend from the resistance? This is questionable. But you have proven to be a reliable young man. And, in truth, I am curious to witness this reunion. You may see him." He turned to the trooper at his side. "Go, fetch the other boy. Bring him before us."

The trooper stomped and saluted. and left to follow orders. He returned a few minutes later, with two driver robots following, and the most wretched person Walter had ever seen bound in restraints between them.

The boy's head was bowed, dark hair hanging low and tangled around his face. His scarred and bruised fists were clenched between the stern, gleaming steel of the restraint.

It was Nathaniel. His brother in all but blood. But the differences between them were undeniable.

Walter's throat tightened.

"Here he is, Hir Marlow," Commander Udensnacht said. "It is good to see old friends again, no?"

Nathaniel looked up, and glanced about at the troopers. Anger lined his face when he saw Hir Nyborg.

And then he saw Walter. "You."

Walter swallowed. He'd wished for this moment, for so long. "Nathaniel. It's good to see you."

Nathaniel's eyes shimmered. "I don't know you anymore. You're one of them now, aren't you?"

Walter turned to Hir Nyborg. He knew he should contain his emotions, but his outrage wouldn't subside. "What have you done to him?"

Hir Nyborg was refined and collected, as always. "The very same that was done to you. As I have mentioned, Walter, you are my best student. Your friend will simply take more time. He will come around. They all do, eventually."