A couple weeks had passed since the arrival of all the rangers at the base. The summer season finally opened to guests a week after ranger training, and volunteers were now allowed to come and go. The base felt less packed, and rangers could focus on calls rather than constant training.

However, the only issue now was keeping the permanent rangers from becoming stir–crazy. The first month is when Onyx begins choosing who gets to stay at the local fire watch tower for about two weeks to a month, which allows that ranger to at least get some needed alone time.

Onyx headed upstairs towards the rangers barracks. It was more like a loft, overlooking tall windows that faced the wilderness. If Onyx were being honest, he'd admit he was a little jealous of the view they had each time they went to sleep and woke up. Upstairs, he spotted Pete talking with Spencer quietly. They both looked up as Onyx entered the room.

Morning Captain, they greeted in unison.

Onyx glanced over, Hey, could I talk to you for a sec', Pete?

He nodded. Spencer dipped his head as he walked out.

How do you feel about staying at the tower for a few weeks?

Onyx was slightly surprised by how quickly the sergeant's eyes lit up.

I would absolutely love that, he sighed happily.

The captain nodded, We can send you out in a few days depending on how you feel about making that hike up there.

I'd go right now if I could, I made that hike before, and I'd gladly make my way up tomorrow morning.

Jeez, is it that bad staying up here? Onyx chuckled, glancing around the bunks.

No, although one of the guys has a gnarly snore but, I just love the tower.

Onyx nodded along. Although he hadn't stayed at that particular tower, he had been up there many times, either for a mission or to help rangers. It was a beautiful tower, just as old as the base itself but with fewer renovations. Throughout the summer it was vital to have a fire watch because of the ranging temperatures the park experiences.

Though, it had been a long time since the park had a bad wildfire, especially one in this area. It was never bad to be too prepared.

I'll schedule you to head out tomorrow then, Onyx nodded. Get yourself prepared today, I'll order that sector's cache box to be filled for you.

Thanks, Onyx. Pete smiled, quickly pulling his pack from underneath his cot.



As Onyx walked down the creaky steps, Tommy looked up from his computer.

Hey Cap, you're just in time because there's been a report of an altercation at the Overflow Cavern.

An altercation?

Y'know those four guys that came in yesterday for the key? One of them is stuck down in the closed–off section.

Onyx sighed heavily, get Spencer and Cherryl out there, he paused for a second. Actually, let Jasper go too.

Tommy nodded, radioing the three. Onyx tapped the desk with annoyance.

How the hell did they get down there?

Tommy shrugged, No idea, apparently two volunteers were alerted to four guys in that section and when they checked it out, one of them was stuck in the gulch.

Onyx shook his head, Wonderful, sounds like I'll need to order in a repair crew for that gate.

Oh, by the way, Pete's going to the tower tomorrow.

Tomorrow? Tommy looked up, a hint of disappointment in his eyes. Ah, okay.

He didn't speak for a second, just staring at the computer. Before he could ask, Tommy nodded, I'll get that put in, do you need me to send Roger a message about the supply cache up there?

Yeah, make sure it's the third cache, sometimes Roger sends his guys to the wrong one and it takes us forever to locate the supplies.

You got it, cap'.

A few stomping shoes suddenly rounded the corner as Cherryl barked orders, Get your asses outside now. Jasper and Spencer were right behind her as they ran out to the back garage. Jasper glanced over, grinning at Onyx as he ran out.

Onyx stood behind the desk, shaking his head as he grabbed a clipboard off of the desk below. He began writing an incident report as Tommy looked over with a smug look.

So, you and Jasper have been getting along, huh?

Mhm, Onyx continued writing, not daring to look up.

I told you he was nice.

That you did, Tommy.

C'mon, you gotta admit you find the guy charming.

What are you getting at? Onyx gruffed, looking up at the receptionist. Tommy merely shrugged.

Listen, everyone knows you aren't close with anyone, it might be a good change for you cap'. To y'know, hang out with someone new.

You callin' me lonely, Tommy? Onyx raised a brow, frowning.

No no but–

Onyx pinched the bridge of his nose, You're worse than Cherryl.

Hey, she'd be saying the same thing if she wasn't so busy lately.

I'm not here to hang out Tommy, I'm here to do my job, so let me do it.

Onyx dropped the clipboard down on the desk in front of Tommy. He turned to walk away, shaking his head in annoyance. It'd been a couple of weeks since he worked with the ranger. After the survey, he hadn't reached back out to do any missions. He hated to admit it, but he had been avoiding the ranger.

He knew Tommy was only looking out for the captain, but Onyx knew he made a good point, he wasn't here to make friends, he was here to work. But if he was being honest, he'd admit he hasn't reached out to anyone in years. Everyone that came into his life was either from his work or family, and heaven knows he doesn't have a lot of that anymore. He frowned slightly, walking to the kitchen to refill his coffee. Back to work, he told himself.



Jasper hopped off the buggy, adjusting his harness. Cherryl had practically thrown a duffle bag at both Spencer and himself and told them to gear up before they ran out. Jasper was already beginning to sweat in the caving coveralls. He groaned slightly, fixing the collar.

Get used to it, Quinn, Spencer grinned. You're gonna be wearing that outfit a lot.

Oh I'm sure I will, Spence, Jasper stretched. At least mine actually fits me.

Spencer frowned, pushing past Jasper as he walked towards Cherryl. Jasper absolutely hated working with Spencer. What started as a small rivalry between the two now has turned into something more annoying than anything. Ever since Onyx stopped taking him on missions, he'd practically been assigned to Cherryl and Spencer every single day.

Compared to every other ranger on base, Jasper found himself enjoying Onyx's company the most. He enjoyed how seriously the captain took his work, while also giving Jasper the chance to tag along wherever he went on or off base. The captain didn't speak much but Jasper was determined to get the guy to open up some more. That was until Onyx practically started avoiding him. Jasper sighed.

Alright boys, Cherryl spoke, fixing her helmet as she clipped it on. Spencer, I'll need you next to me to make sure we can get down into the cave safely. Jasper, I'd like you to assess the situation and learn the cave. Trust me when I tell you this won't be the first time you'll be in this fucking cave.

Although he had trained in a few caves before, he was unfamiliar with the caves this far up north. The one thing that he could expect, which applies to all caves, is that it was going to be wet. Cherryl gave Jasper a quick rundown of what to expect from it, and he knew now that this specific cave was dangerous because certain areas would fill with water very drastically in a short amount of time.

A popular break–in, I assume? Jasper asked, clipping his caving bag against himself.

People see a fence and get alarmed when they realize it's dangerous, I swear, the lieutenant grumbled.

The group hiked up towards the cave entrance. As they got closer, they could hear heated voices talking back and forth. Ahead, two volunteers were arguing with two of the cavers. The gate had been obviously damaged by the group, and as the rangers arrived, one of the volunteers clapped her hands.

Thank god! Please deal with these two, she'd practically wept, exasperated from the arguing.

Cherryl walked up, glancing at the two cavers before turning back to Spencer.

Talk to the cavers, I'm gonna assess the situation.

Jasper stood next to Spencer as he began questioning them.

Alright, what happened here, guys?

One of the taller men began speaking first, A really stupid decision was made, he snapped, glancing at the shorter of the two.

The little man balked, Yeah, your stupid decision.

Okay, relevant information please, Spencer groaned.

The two men huffed, the taller focusing back on Spencer.

We wanted to spend our trip caving, but one of the guys knew there was a hidden cave back here so we wanted to go explore–

You wanted to go explore.

Can you shut the fuck–

Alright! Spencer snapped. We're trying to help all of you, we don't care about blame right now. Tell us what happened so we can help you.

The tall one continued, glaring at the smaller. We broke in and we went pretty deep. Before we could continue some water rushed in and trapped one of the guys across the river in there. He's stuck and we can't get him across safely.

Spencer nodded. This cave is notorious for rising water. We'll get a team together, don't worry.

As they walked back towards Cherryl, Jasper glanced at Spencer. How big is it in there?

The cave itself has been recorded about 2 miles in, although it's unknown how deep it actually goes, he shrugged. It's kinda creepy honestly.

Cherryl finished talking with the volunteers, turning to look back.

So?, she questioned.

Sounds like he's trapped right where the river flows in.

Yeah, it's what the volunteers said. We'll have to go in first, but I'm gonna call Onyx for some more support. This is pretty ridiculous, she sighed.

Cherryl lifted her radio to her mouth.

Hey, Cherryl here, you on, Onyx?

Cherryl. How's it looking?

Not great, we haven't gone in yet but it already looks like we're gonna need a wetsuit and some backup.

I'm on the way, start assessing the situation and I'll bring some of the experienced volunteer rangers.

See you soon.

Cherryl looked at the two, alright, let's go.

The two volunteers remained outside with the two bickering guests. The cave itself appeared small from the outside, but as one got closer, they'd hear the trickle of water flowing inside.
The surrounding area is what is known as a karst landscape. This is an area of rocky, stoney land with sinkholes, caves, and springs that form in limestone and other rocks. Springs and underwater rivers are generated as the water table meets the surface through caves. This is where they have a problem. Because of the melting snowfall, the cave rivers tend to fluctuate, and the team needs to make sure the river itself will be low enough for them to cross.

If not, they'll have to wait until it's safe.

Jasper turned his headlamp on as they began entering the cave. He was surprised the team got as far as they did, considering it was a straight drop after they walked about ten feet inside. A few ropes were already attached to an anchor, so they began getting themselves ready to descend. He began attaching his descender to the harness, pulling the rope through as he prepared himself.

Cherryl walked over, assessing Jasper's rope. Looks good, make sure to avoid dragging the rope against the rocks. It'll get muddy and cause the rope to become slippier and you might descend faster than you planned.

Jasper winced, noted.

Remember, most caving accidents happen during the descent, so if you feel like something's wrong, let us know.

Jasper nodded before checking his harness again. He'd never admit he was nervous but it'd be his first time rescuing someone from a cave that wasn't a dummy or a random volunteer. Spencer rappelled down first, he used his descender to make his way down into the depths of the cave. A few voices could be heard, alongside the noise of rushing water as he vanished into the dark.

You're next, Cherryls voice echoed.

Jasper clipped himself to his second point of attachment. He opened the descender, rigging the rope upwards through the bobbins, wrapping it around back towards himself before pulling it through the friction spur. He double–checked his gear, glancing at Cherryl. She gave him a thumbs up as he turned himself around, pulling the rope taught. He leaned himself back as he walked against the wall, guiding the rope through the descender. Jasper made his way down without any issue, checking the rope for any mud as he went.

As he looked around, his headlamp illuminated the muddy walls. Waterfalls poured out of various small crevices, and the room echoed of the rushing water below. Suddenly, the cave opened to a large cavernous room. Stalactites and Stalagmites littered the ceilings and floors. As he reached the bottom, Spencer was waiting for him as his feet touched the first platform. It was hard to stand as various streams of water and small stalagmites ran underneath their feet. It was a shame to think how thousands of years of build–up would be destroyed by the caver's careless actions.

You good? Spencer asked, putting his radio up to his mouth, He made it.

Copy, Cherryls voice spoke through the radio.

I'm good, he nodded. He unlatched a right–angled flashlight off his rig, taking a look around the cave. The light illuminated specks of water and dust floating throughout the air. They stood near the edge of another drop, although there was a cave wall right above the second drop. Jasper could see down into this drop if he crouched, and right when he shone his light in, he spotted one of the cavers.

Hey! Over here! the man shouted.

We're coming! Jasper shouted back. Spencer flipped his light on, looking towards the bottom.

There's a few anchors here, we should be able to make our way down there.

Jasper nodded.

Head down there first, sergeant.

Jasper was a little surprised, you sure?

Spencer had almost a glint in his eye, one Jasper could see even in the dark of the room as he prepared the ropes.

You questioning my orders, Quinn?

Seriously? Right fucking now? Jasper retorted, annoyance bleeding into his tone.

Get the fuck down there, Spencer snapped. Jasper grumbled, debating if he should even tattletail and tell Onyx about Spencer's annoying behavior later. While Jasper knows even he gets on other's nerves, he definitely doesn't do it while in the middle of a rescue mission.

Asshole, he grumbled under his breath, adjusting his descender.

Slightly pissed, he focused on running the rope back through. He pulled it tight as he walked downwards. He descended a bit faster than he had initially, reaching the bottom with a small hop. Water ran past Jasper's legs as he stood in the freezing water. Even through his water–proof waders, the water was biting at his skin.

The caver he spotted earlier walked over to him, panting.

Hey, thanks for coming. My friend's stuck on the other side of this dip and we can't reach him because of the water flowing through.

What's his name? Jasper asked, walking with him carefully as they approached the dip in the rocks. Jasper saw what he meant, while water was flowing beneath their feet, a quick–moving river flowed through a crevice.

His name's Johnny, I'm Joann.

Johnny and Joann huh? Jasper spoke, searching with his light. I'm Jasper.

His light illuminated the figure of Johnny. He was lying on his side, holding his leg.

Over here! Johnny shouted, sounding worn out.

We're comin', just hang tight! Jasper shouted back, unclipping his radio. Are you injured?

I'm okay, just feeling tired.

Can you walk?

I think!

Did he injure himself? He asked the other caver.

I don't know, he complained his leg was cramping after he walked through the cold water. While I was crossing over, a huge burst of water almost took me downstream and I had to fight to get over here, he spoke, still slightly panting.

Do you have water?

No.

Jasper pulled his bag off, handing the caver an emergency hydration packet.

Finish this, we'll get you back up after, okay?

What about Johnny? I'm not leaving him yet.

For the sake of your health and his, we gotta get you back up, okay?

Joann seemed to fight himself internally a bit before he nodded. Okay.

Great, Jasper spoke, holding the walkie up to his mouth.

Cherryl, you copy?

Loud and clear, Jasper.

I located the two males. I'm here with one male, Joann. He's pretty exhausted, apparently, he got stuck in the river before making it across. Johnny, the second male is trapped across what looks to be a river and he's suffering from leg cramps.

Did you check in with him?

He's speaking and sitting on the ground. Says he can walk but he's resting currently.

We need to get them both out of there, the cold is only going to make them more tired. The other's just got here so we'll start sending more people down. Can you get Spencer on the radio?

He's not down here with me.

What? Cherryl practically exclaimed in his ear. He's not fucking next to you?

No, Jasper replied, a feeling of satisfaction curling in his chest. That'll teach that bastard.

Stay down there, we're coming down.

Copy.

Joann was finishing up the water packet, nodding. Okay, I'm finished.

Good, that'll give you a bit of a boost. Make sure to always hydrate properly, he spoke, checking on Johnny across the river. Jasper looked down at the water. He felt fear sinking into his stomach as he realized the water was higher than it originally was.

Jasper! Cherryl's voice echoed as she rappled down. Spencer was right behind her as they made their way down. Seal suddenly came down, a flashlight illuminating the area beneath Jasper's feet.

The water's rising, he spoke quickly, turning his light towards the back again where Johnny lay. What do we do?

Cherryl analyzed the situation as Seal tended to Joann. Spencer didn't say anything as he prepared to help Joann back up towards the mouth of the cave.

Okay. We're gonna attach a rope to the other side, and one of us will cross the river and bring him across. I can see a couple of anchors on the other side from previous missions.

You think he'll be strong enough to attach a rope?

Let's hope. Cherryl began unpacking her bag, pulling out an extra rope. She attached the other side of the rope to her harness.

Hey Johnny, I'm Cherryl and this is Jasper. We're gonna get you out of here, okay?

Okay, the other replied, already sounding more exhausted than previously.

We're gonna throw you some rope. This rope has a carabiner attached, do you think you'll be able to catch it and hook the rope and carabiner on the anchor down there?

Johnny sat up, looking down at the anchor. He nodded slightly, I think so.

Cherryl glanced at Jasper before nodding. They prepared to toss over one side. Johnny held his hands up, ready. As Cherryl threw it, it landed right outside of where the caver was located, falling into the water.

Fuck, she grunted, pulling the cord back quickly, Jasper helping her. They tried again, although the cord fell once again.

Let me try, Jasper spoke. Cherryl nodded, handing him the rope. Jasper threw the weighted end into the air, allowing the slight breeze to help lead it toward where Johnny sat. Jasper cheered as the caver caught it successfully.

Good work! Tie it onto the anchor and we'll get you, she spoke, patting Jasper on the back. They watched as Johnny attached the anchor. Cherryl unlatched the rope from her harness, securing her other side through the anchor.

You stay here, Cherryl turned to glance at Jasper, I'll lead him over but I'm going to need you to help get us up. Pull this rope through your harness and keep the rope steady. Do you think you can do it?

Yes, Jasper replied, pulling a few extra carabiners out of his bag. He handed Cherryl the clips as he ran the rope through his harness. He knew he was gonna need to use his strength to keep the rope straight so he mentally prepared himself for the ordeal.

Cherryl pulled her coveralls off, revealing a wetsuit underneath. She took her helmet off to pull a balaclava on, along with goggles and her rescue harness. She secured her helmet once again, glancing at Jasper.

Fuckin' hate this part, she sighed before clipping herself to the rope.

Remember, keep it tight.

Jasper nodded as Cherryl dipped into the fast–moving water. Jasper was surprised to see the river itself was only chest–high. He was even more surprised by just how quickly Cherryl made it across.

Fuck fuck it's so fucking cold– she gasped, pulling herself up to the other side.

Keep it tight, Sergeant!

Always do, Lieutenant! he gritted back. He heard Cherryl laugh from across the river. Soon enough, she was attaching Johnny to the rope with a carabiner. He held onto her back as she brought him down into the water. Jasper pulled back tightly on the rope.

Suddenly, a popping could be heard. Jasper glanced over, his headlamp illuminating the quickly rising water. It suddenly became deafening as a cacophony of water splashing and gurgling filled the air. He fought to keep the rope tight.

C'mon, he gasped, watching as Cherryl and Johnny finally made it over, although the water was now rising towards their shoulders. He quickly helped pull them upwards, securing the rope.

Let's get out of here, Cherryl spoke quickly, panic crossing her features. Jasper would be a liar if he said he didn't feel any panic either.

He helped Johnny cross the way over to the rope. Seal, Spencer, and Joann were safely up outside already, but now it was their turn to head out. Easier said than done. Water was dripping down onto them from the shelf above.

Cherryl secured Johnny to the rope.

Do you think you can climb?

Yes, Ma'am, he spoke. Jasper figured the adrenaline was kicking in because the stranded caver no longer looked tired.

I'll be right behind you then, Cherryl spoke. She nodded to Jasper as she attached herself.

Ascending, she spoke into her radio. They began using ascenders to pull themselves up. Jasper began working to attach his ascender to a separate rope, cursing when he realized his ascender was broken.

He ripped his pack off, digging for his spare. The water was nearing his knees, the freezing water soaking the canvas above the rubber lining. His body involuntarily shivered as he fought the contents inside. He tried to ignore the rising panic in his throat. He almost wept when his hand grazed the metal of his emergency ascender.

Jasper rapidly attached it to the rope, pulling himself up with the adrenaline that buzzed under his skin. Water continued to pop and crackle as he made his way up, hoping his gloves wouldn't slip against the soaked rope. He scrambled over the first shelf, avoiding stalagmites as he grabbed the last rope.

The rope swayed as he pulled himself up, panting. His adrenaline was wearing down, and he could feel exhaustion threatening his progress. His muscles were straining, the roar of water underneath practically calling out to Jasper. He closed his eyes briefly, allowing himself a minute of break before moving to pull himself.

His glove slipped against the wet rope, and he felt the ascender catch against the rope. Jasper tried not to let the sinking feeling distract him as he attempted to pull the rope again.

Out of nowhere, a bright light illuminated the darkened area. Jasper winced as the light shined down into his face. Suddenly, Onyx was next to him, having descended from another rope, grabbing Jasper by his rig.

C'mon sergeant, just a bit more to go, his warm voice spoke. Jasper couldn't help but smile. If he had the energy he'd crack a joke.

Onyx pulled Jasper upwards, both working together to hoist themselves back to the cave entrance. Jasper used the added help to his advantage, slightly motivated by the sight of warm light above.

Finally, daylight greeted the two. Jasper practically laid against the floor of the cave, panting and shivering. Onyx pulled the ranger up, taking Jasper's arm and pulling it over his shoulders, hauling the sergeant out.

Such a gentlemen, Jasper breathed out, relishing the warmth of Onyx and the outside sunshine.

All lined up were various volunteers, rangers, and paramedics. Jasper couldn't help but laugh at the whole ordeal.

Onyx sat Jasper down against a nearby stump, a paramedic quickly walking over to assess Jasper. He didn't realize it before but various cuts were stinging on his face and wrists from where his gloves didn't cover. In his scramble out he must've gotten close enough to the cave walls without noticing. Jasper went to thank Onyx before he realized Onyx was walking towards Spencer who was helping Cherryl sit up.

You, Onyx practically snarled. Jasper sat up a little.

What the fuck were you thinking? Sending Jasper down there alone while your ass allowed him to navigate his way through? Don't you know you don't fucking do that? Especially someone who's never been in the goddamn cave?

That is how you get rangers killed, Mr. King. You're going straight to my office after you're cleared. Do you understand? he spoke loudly. Everyone in the vicinity was either startled or avoiding Onyx's eyes. Even Jasper was slightly shaken by just how angered the captain was.

Do you understand? Onyx enunciated.

Spencer nodded softly, looking up at Onyx with abjection.

Yes, Sir.

Good. Onyx snapped, turning to face the rest of the team members. Start getting those who need medical care to the bay. Start clearing out.

Everyone quickly began scrambling to clean the area up. Seal walked over to Jasper briskly.

You okay? they asked, helping Jasper stand.

Yeah, he spoke shakily, glancing back at Onyx as he talked with a few of the other rangers. He allowed himself to be led over to one of the medical buggys, laying himself down on the stretcher. Seal looked lost in thought as they strapped him in. Jasper watched the trees above as they drove back to base.



Jasper secured his hat as Seal finished clearing him.

He still couldn't shake Onyx's words from earlier. As Seal walked back in, Jasper couldn't help but ask.

You ever seen the captain like that before?

Seal shook their head.

Never, he's raised his voice a few times when some annoying volunteers purposely throw off training or whatnot, but never at another ranger.

Although it was pretty stupid of a stunt Spencer pulled there. Even I couldn't believe my ears when I heard you were alone over the radio, Seal chuckled, finishing up some writing.

Yeah, Jasper looked down, sighing. I dunno, I guess–

Before Jasper could say anything, the door to the medic bay opened. Onyx walked in, looking over at Jasper. He could feel his heart drop.

How's he doing? the captain asked, turning to Seal.

He just got cleared, they nodded, returning to their desk.

C'mon then, Onyx motioned.

They both walked outside, the sun setting and distant bugs buzzing in the trees. Instead of heading inside, Onyx led them towards the back outside area. There were a couple of firepits and places for rangers to train and hang out. Onyx sat on one of the benches, staring out at the forest. Jasper sat down next to him.

You okay? the captain asked, glancing at the sergeant. Jasper nodded, looking at the pink and orange that blended across the sky.

Surprisingly, yeah, Jasper nodded. Although it did suck having to figure half of it out. Overall it was still a pretty successful mission, he tried to joke.

Onyx didn't reply.

Jasper glanced over, swallowing a little.

I'm sorry I sent you out there.

He almost did a double–take.

What?

I asked Tommy to send you out there last minute. I should've just brought you out there myself, but– Onyx fought with himself for a minute. I figured you'd be fine on your own.

Well, lucky for you it seems I was, Jasper grinned, nudging Onyx with his elbow.

I had to practically drag you out of there, the captain frowned.

I don't blame you for anything, cap'n, Jasper smiled softly, looking up at him. I'm okay.

Onyx heaved a sigh, slowly nodding.

Okay. I'm glad you're safe, sergeant.

You got me out safe, Cap'n.

They both shared a warm smile before Onyx stood up, offering Jasper a hand. Jasper gladly took it, practically clapping his hand as he stood up cheerily.

Oh, how is Spencer by the way?

Onyx suddenly frowned, don't even get me started, he muttered.

Jasper barked out a laugh as they both headed inside, the bugs singing in the distance.

Click Here To Return to Chapter Index!