TFB - A Dark Sun Very Short Story

So, this is one that requires a little explanation before I just post. This story takes place about 6-8 months ago in our current Dark Sun game, when Trakas was leaving. The writing challenge of the week was to write about something that you both respected and hated. Only one answer came to my mind. Zarnian respects Oronis, the Avangion who is attempting to save all of Athas. How Zarnian came to hate him is a long and complicated story. This is a taste.

P.S. Dark Sun is full of psionics. Therefore, because Oronis's mission depends on secrecy, the players never refer directly to him. Therefore, He and Him are used instead of names. Zarnian's code for him is TFB, which stands for 'The Fucking Bug'.

                “Do you have enough food for Mekillot and the other two codlu?”

                “Yes.”

                “And enough water? It is a long journey.”

                “Yes.”

                “And enough food? Sorin is growing.”

                This time Trakas flinched under the barrage of questions. As he packed his traveling kit, he sucked in a long breath, holding it past reason. Finally exhaling, he turned to Zarnian. A few candles lit the room, but he could see her well enough, holding up the wall with her crossed arms and knit brows. For an ex-gladiator whose life depended on concealing her next move, she wore her emotions like a dancing girl’s colorful scarves. Now, she was angry, sad, and managing it by making sure he had more than what he needed. It was her way. He loved this about her even as it made him insane. “Yes, Zarnian. I’ve made this journey many times.” Even as he said it, he knew he had shot an unintended arrow.

                She stiffened at the wound. “I know.” Those were the spoken words. Many more lay unused but clearly visible. “I know you have to do what you must do.”

                Trakas tried to not rise to the accusation. Pausing his packing, he raised his gaze to meet hers. “It’s what we all need to do. Zarnian, He is trying to save the planet. I don’t see why you hate Him so much.”

                “I respect Him. I don’t hate Him,” but from the fire flashing behind her jade eyes, the later statement was highly suspect. “I just cannot do this anymore. I cannot be in relationship where I come second, or third.” Trakas opened his mouth, but she held her hand up. “I know, and understand that you do what is needed, as do I. I value your friendship, Trakas. I want to preserve that before He manages to take that, too.”

                “You’re not being fair.”
                “Perhaps. All I know is that I start to depend on something, and TFB removes it or alters it in a way that I cannot tolerate. Yet, when I need assistance, He has other matters.”

                “He is trying to save the planet. He can’t protect every single person.”

                “I see. Just the ones He cares for.” Finally, her shoulders dropped. “I don’t want to do this again. I’ll leave you to pack. Timmuth and Sorin are in their room, asleep. I’ll be on patrol if you need me.” Placing her hand on the door, she stepped out, pausing in the doorway before leaving Trakas alone.