Untamed Gift (Book One of the Items Trilogy)

by H. Lee Morgan, Jr

Chapter 6

  Kori and Alex returned to the bustling market together by noon. It had grown even thicker in population since they initially left, since the winter festival will begin in two weeks, but Alex’s guard on the surroundings remained alert. He couldn’t stop himself from imagining enemies around every corner and hoped to find a way to lead them away from Kori should the worst happen. Shade would meet back up with them, just after the sun sets so he can use the darkness to his advantage. He would meet them by the trail that led into the market from the west. Shade grumbled at her purposed idea, but knew of no other way to be smuggled into and out of town. Kori walked with her arm through her escort’s once again as they casually returned to her home.

  When they made it to her shop Alex waited outside by the display window while she went inside to get something. Several minutes later she walked out with two slips of paper that had to be delivered to the docks and one to a coach driver. She told him who to look for and the specific ship to find the captain on. She went back inside to attend to an errand while Alex started walking through the streets. Much had to be done and very little time was allotted to accomplish it.

  Walking down the main street, the first priority was to hire a horse coach. He had to walk over a mile until he found the stables. He looked at the building beside the mostly empty stalls and entered. Once inside the establishment it smelled of treated leather and musty old liquor. He walked up to a burly gentleman with a long black beard and a sweat stained white tunic and handed over the slip. Alex told him to meet at Kori’s Clothing after nightfall and since he had to pay upfront he used three silver pieces from his pouch. He was a kind businessman who said he’ll be there with his coach this evening. At least he knew where to go.

  After leaving the stables, Alex knew the quickest routes to the docks, so he took the shortest one. He walked to the center of the market. The center of the market holds an open stone platform and is surrounded by high wooden walls. It is made circular so the adults can walk around the outside perimeter and continue on with their daily routines and business ventures. Going around the familiar wall brought back many despicable memories from the past.

  Children go to the instructors from the age of five years old until the age of fifteen. That was how the king’s faultless system was supposed to work, but it was nothing except a farce. The kids were always grouped into their four attributed categories and Alex was usually thrown into the utility faction since they were usually the weakest class. The children called him Zero because he was the only slave-child known who didn’t have an item and even with the other utility children he was an outcast of society. Harsh insults and sneers were alleviated by books. They kept him relatively sane throughout his adolescent life.

  The sparing of metallic items and other clashing sounds could be clearly heard over the high wall. There wasn’t a doubt in his mind knowing that the weapon’s class were having another sparring match. Their items couldn’t kill their opponents yet, but it didn’t mean no one was hurt. Those that were, went to the children healers to see if their items could correct the limited injuries. Alex didn’t have time to reminisce about his handicap, knowing the peril they were all still in.

  Just as the sun started leaning towards mid-afternoon he arrived at the harbor. The ocean was a stunning light blue and held small sprays of white from the rolling waves. The air was salty and sent many breezes towards the market. It also carried a clean smell that wafted pass, unlike the town itself. Multitudes of boats were tethered to wooden posts, ranging in many sizes and shapes. Just about all of the vessels has a sail and those that didn’t were single person rowing boats that were unable to cross open ocean. There were many people at the dock bringing in their catches or selling them straight from their craft. Along the docks over the water Alex passed huge sailboats with three or five sails that were all beautiful to admire. It took him almost two more hours until finally finding the vessel Kori spoke of. It was a large shipping sailboat called the Falcon. Alex remembered that the cousin species of that particular raptor was called the Fury from the book that was burned and buried back on the farm where Gambit...

  He fiercely shook his head to keep mournful thoughts focused.

  The Falcon had a long ramp that a crew of men carried the shipments onto. Alex called for the captain and one of the shipmates pointed him in the right direction. The captain up on the ship was ordering his men to place the crates in securer positions for their imminent departure. The captain turned when he caught the movement of Alex’s approach, he had a cutlass strapped to his hip for an item. Slightly yellowing teeth showed he cared little for them, but he bared authority in his stance. He took the document from the tall lad’s hand and looked it over. He peered over it meticulously to look at Alex with new suspicion. His tone matched Alex’s observations. “So little Kori has a shipment that needs delivering to the mainland, eh? And you are here to supposedly guard her shipment?”

  On each of his thick fingers were ornate and expensive rings, but the least lavish was the one was on his right index. It was a silver leaf engraved ring. Alex raised his right hand and the captain grinned when the pieces fell in. “Aye, now that makes more sense. I understand why she has a treasured shipment that requires an extra protective hand. We will be shipping off by midnight. Be here before then or else we’ll set sail without you.”

  Alex nodded and left the ship. He still had two more errands that needed to be completed.

  Making it back into the market again he found a reputable butcher and bought five long strips of red meat and their combined weight weighed half his own. The butcher’s item was a cleaver. The butcher’s item could coat itself in flames, like most elemental weapon’s class items, and he offered to cook the meat, but Alex settled for it just being salted. He wrapped the long strips in paper and was paid before Alex slung the meat over his shoulder and departed. He then walked over to a leather seller and bought two new water skins, made from cattle hide, each with a wooden stopper to plug the mouth of the necessary travel items. With his jobs completed he began his way back to Kori’s.

  It had thankfully started to become darker. Alex made it back and saw a large wooden crate sitting outside of her shop. He looked through the window and saw that the candles were lit behind the closed curtains. He lifted the crate to see it completely empty and realized it was a newly fashioned crate that couldn’t be seen into. On the top was writing that held Kori’s Clothing logo and a shipping manifest. He tossed the salted meat inside the crate and closed it. He knocked twice on the front door and said “Kori, it’s me.”

  She opened the door and allowed him inside.

  While they waited for complete darkness to envelope the town Alex ate dinner with Kori and her girls. His heart constricted once he saw each child playing with the dolls that his uncle had made. It reminded him of when Gambit sat in his chair each night and carved on pieces of wood with his item. Even if he was sad at the loss of his life, Alex also overjoyed because Gambit shared his respectable passion with the children. He wouldn’t be forgotten for a very long time to come if the children continued to cherish those simple toys. That was a small consolation.

  Once darkness overtook the sky Kori put her girls to bed. The oldest girl locked the front door behind them, without asking her mother what she was going to do tonight. She most likely thought Alex was going to spend time with her mother, to catch up like old times. He grabbed the water skins and threw the straps over his shoulder. Once things were clear and almost everyone had retired for the night did Kori and Alex hurry to the meeting place.

  Shade lay patiently waiting inside the shadows and once he spotted them he walked silently onto the trail, grateful for their arrival. He looked at Alex and asked “Did you get everything finished for us to go?”

  He shook his head. “Not quite yet. I’m going to fill these up. You need to follow Kori through the market as silently as you can. Keep a look out for anyone. If you do see a person, find a place to hide before you’re seen.”
He nodded. Alex turned to Kori and told her the same thing he explained to Shade.

  As she left and Shade followed her at a trot, Alex went into the woods to find another freshwater flowing stream. He found one and quickly filled both skins with as much as they could contain. Then he threw the wet leathers behind his back after sliding his arm through the strap. He turned and jogged back to the market for the last time, knowing he’ll most likely never see his home ever again.

  All of the nightly torches were lit again as Alex walked unhindered down the emptying street. When he finally found Kori, she stood next to the crate in an unconcerned way. She was calmly scanning the area for any signs of trouble as she waited. She didn’t see him until he intentionally moved in front of a burning torch. She let out a sigh of relief. When he was close enough she whispered “We didn’t have any trouble getting here. He pointed at the meat when he got in. I hope you don’t mind, but I gave him one of the strips. He looked hungry.” There was a scraping sound inside the crate, but it stopped when Kori slapped her hand against the side. It was a gesture for Shade to remain still.

  Alex placed a hand on her shoulder. “He was. He hasn’t had anything to eat all day, probably. The meat was for him anyways.”

  He opened the crate to see how Shade filled out most of the inside of the compartment. His fangs were clean so Alex knew he had eaten quickly and quietly. They didn’t say a word as he sat one skins inside and next to the rewrapped meat. He pulled the stopper of the other one and held it to his mouth to demonstrate for Shade. The visual expression worked. Shade opened his mouth just wide enough for Alex to give him a small drink to go down with the food he ate.

  After they whispered to each other one last time Alex shut the lid, closed the latch and locked it with a metal lock. Shade didn’t like the cramped space, but he knew it had to be done this way. Kori gave Alex the only key and he slid into his pocket. Like clockwork, the coach arrived on time.

  The wagon was pulled by two horses and the driver was the same man Alex met earlier in the establishment. Another younger man sat with him and it left little doubt that it was his son. The two coats of the horses were both brown and their frightened snorting alerted Alex that they could smell Shade. They didn’t like his scent, no sane herbivore did, but they were reined in before they spooked and took off with an empty wagon. Kori also realized this, but she didn’t say anything. Shade remained silent in his box.

  The driver pulled up to the two of them and reined the horses to stop. He stepped out and asked “Sorry about that. Sometimes they spook rather easy, especially at night. Is this all?” He pointed to the crate and Kori said it was. He turned to his son and said “Give me a hand. Clothes get heavy and a crate this big is sure to be weighty.”

  “I’ll take the rear if the two of you take the front.” Alex offered as he knew he had the harder job and they realized it as well. They agreed appreciatively and Alex walked over to the back of the crate. Shade was so silent and still that he couldn’t even be heard breathing. He didn’t understand human words, but knew others were here.

  Alex put his hands under the crate, after moving the soil for his fingers to grasp. The three of them all lifted at the same time. The weight was enormous on the back end, but bearable. Unlike with him the other two men were struggling. Their faces were red and they breathed in short chopped breaths. The three of them slowly walked the crate to the back end of the wagon. They lifted with all they had and managed to put the lip on the top of the flat bed. Once it was up there Alex forcibly pushed. They stepped back and stared at him in amazement as he pushed the entire crate onto the wagon. The men didn’t say anything, but Kori whistled and said “You have definitely become as strong as your uncle.”

  They hugged one another and he whispered “Thank you and take of yourself. Oh and wait to sell the land until the situation around here calms down. Say you won the land in a bet, but allowed us to live there for a small fee each season.” She said she would and they separated.

  Inside the wagon he sat beside the crate. As the coachman snapped the reigns the alert horses began pulling forward. Kori’s eyes were wet as she waved farewell. His throat swelled as he waved back.

  Soon after, they rounded a corner and Kori was gone.

  Shade remained as silent as Alex. All that was said was between the coach driver and his son. He watched torch after torch go by as they passed through the town. It wasn’t long until he could hear the sounds of the ocean. He turned to look forward just as the sandy ground turned into wood. The docks were lined with torches whipping from the wind and making the burning light flicker in every direction the wind dictated. It looked like some would blow out, but they stayed lit under the constant battering from the unrelenting wind. The air was still crisp and clean. The ocean itself was almost black because of the night.

  The driver heeded Alex’s directions and soon they made way to the Falcon before anything dreadful could happen. The captain was patiently waiting for them at the bottom of the loading ramp with a group of four other men. Once the wagon stopped the captain gave Alex an approving look. He ordered the men to help Alex put the crate on the deck. With their help, Shade was carried up the ramp and onto the ship. He followed the captain’s orders and placed the crate on the starboard side, beside the railing. Once they positioned it and tied it down with ropes, the other men left to do the last of their duties and to prepare for departure.

  With the captain and Alex finally alone, he spoke in a whisper. “After we leave I would like to see the cargo that I’m transporting on my ship.”

  Alex shook his head, wind whipping his raven black hair, while giving a warning with his gray eyes. “You of all people know how these things work.” The captain’s eyes became guarded, waiting for more. “This is just a simple transportation detail. The less you know the more you can deny if we get caught, especially if a truth seeker somehow stops us and asks questions.”

  He grinned. “You are a smart one, aren’t you, boy?” Alex smiled and the captain conceded. “You are right. Those contents are your responsibility.” He began to walk away, but stopped and gave a piece of sound advice. “The best time to get some air is during the dark hours after midnight and before dawn.”

  It was another hour until the Falcon finally set sail. The sails came down and the wind filled them. The leading ropes were pulled on board from the dock tether and the dropped anchor was wound back up. The waves began splashing against the ship more loudly as the cargo ship pulled away.

  Just as they were almost out of sight Alex caught a glimpse of dozens of moving torches rushing around in the market. They were being held by many Royal Guards and they were breaking into houses and pulling every person out into the street. Some of the Guard detached from the main body and began searching the docks. Alex knew they were searching for him because he spotted the golden hair of Rakkel issuing most of the orders from the dock. He didn’t see the departing vessel, thanks to the darkness, but Alex’s anger rekindled.

  He sighed once they were out of sight and en-route to the mainland of Nicronane. It was going to be their salvation.

  We made it. Alex thought mildly. We left our home and we’re still alive. Already there was a tight constricting ache around his heart that was only lessened from the fact that they made it off the island together and were relatively safe at the moment. Shade, I hope this was the right choice because there is no going back to the way things were. It was a fact of life, but the knowledge didn’t make it any easier. At least we still have each other and are still together. That thought eased his pain even more.

  The crew of the ship began to go down below the deck a few hours later. Once Alex checked that everyone was down below and wouldn’t come back for the time being, he walked back to the crate. He untied the top straps and used the key to unlock the lock. He lifted the latch and then the crate lid. Alex smiled as he saw Shade and he returned the gesture for his brother.

  “It’s all clear, Shade. You can come outside and stretch
your legs, but stay close to the crate should someone come out.”

  He slowly lifted his head and peered over the top of the crate. Shade was somewhere new and he still felt that danger lurked all around. “If you say so,” He then easily vaulted over the ledge. Once he landed on the deck, he stretched his legs while yawning. He complained about being carried like luggage; that was until he saw the expansive view of the ocean. He walked right up to the rail, raised himself up and placed both paws on it to look over the ledge. “So this is what a boat is…” He looked at his human brother and his golden eyes danced excitedly. “It is my first time off our island. Have you ever been on one of these before?”

  Alex walked up to his side and leaned forward. His elbows rested comfortably on the wood as he gazed out at the wide and majestic view of the ocean. The breeze was cool on their faces and Alex’s hair blew in every direction. “I was born on the mainland and I was still a toddler when my mother brought me to these isles. My uncle took me in just weeks before my mother died from a disease the healers couldn’t cure in time. It is a faint memory, but I do remember riding on a boat similar to this. It is also giving me a feeling of nostalgia from that time, but the memories are faint. Be careful though, the motion of the boat might make you seasick. If you feel like throwing up, tell me, but it would be best if you don’t eat much until you get used to the unpredictable sensation of the waves.”

  He was staring out at the water like Alex was when he asked “What was your mother like?”

  “I don’t remember what she looked like because I was still a child, but Uncle Gambit always spoke well of her. She had raven hair and gray eyes like me. She was a good mother, but I didn’t have a chance to know her that well. I wish I had gotten to spend more time with her, but life doesn’t work out like that.”

  They looked meaningfully at each other for awhile and then silently watched the ocean in silence. Both of our families were destroyed, but we have each other.

  Before Shade returned to the crate he relieved himself over the side of the ship. And before closing the crate Alex gave Shade little water because the sea sickness had been slowly creeping up in him. Luckily he never lost his meals, Alex wasn’t so lucky. By midmorning he spewed over the railing four times.

  During the coming days Alex would help out where he could on the ship to keep his time occupied. The captain had him wrapping rope or helping the cook peel vegetables for the stews. When he couldn’t be of any assistance he would stare out at the marvelous ocean. One time he saw a pod of whales swimming along the port side of the ship. They sprayed a fine mist each time they surfaced and before long the entire crew went on the side of the ship to get an eye of the rare spectacle. Alex couldn’t help thinking they were a toy compared to the size of some of them.

  During the night and after everyone retired, Alex would let Shade out and they would talk.

  A fortnight passed when a sailor up in the crow’s nest announced “Land Ho!” Every sailor went to work after seeing it for themselves. During the fortnight, Alex filled Shade’s water skins and found a few apples, the size of his fist, for him to enjoy. And he ate each fruit one at a time and savored each, for he had little else to do inside the crate.

  A solid surface off in the distance grew by every moment of the Falcon’s approach. Soon it took up the entire horizon of the ocean and he knew that it was the land of Nicronane. Alex was relieved knowing that they had finally and successfully made it away from his cousin. There were still just a few hours before nightfall and then they had to begin the search for Takka.

  When the Falcon docked with the harbor Alex helped the men let out the ramp. Once it dropped the captain said “Alright men. Go relax for the night, you’ve all did splendid work these weeks. We can start work in the morning.” All of the men cheered and rushed off to do what they wanted. The captain winked at the cryptically tall lad, that guarded Kori’s crate with severity, as he walked off into his cabin. Since they were alone Alex spoke to Shade through the crate and told him what was going on out there. He was excited to know that they were finally done with the voyage.

  While they waited for the sun to set Alex scanned the surroundings for possible dangers. Before the boat stood a small market compared to the one at his home island. There were fewer people out there and that included the men who just ran off. Close to the harbor dock lay a heavily forested area which would give them perfect cover to make their escape.

  Once it was dark, Shade jumped out of the crate for the last time. He stretched and shook off his cramped muscles. Alex grabbed the two empty water skins and led him to the ramp. They waited patiently while a man tied his small boat to the dock and then disappeared into the town. Then they quietly walked up the dock and when they were close enough, they dove into the safety of the woods.

  They walked normally through the thick woods, enjoying the change and using strained muscles while following the beach. They came across an untainted stream and soon both skins were freshly filled. Before they left it they gorged themselves with the liquid. It felt both heavenly and painful in their stomachs. Neither of them had had a descent rationed meal all week so Shade offered to go on a hunt. He actually wanted to explore this new land, but his hunger would keep him focused so it wouldn’t be a problem. While he left, Alex gathered dry tender to make a fire.

  Once Alex collected enough tender he knew of only one method of starting a fire with what he had on himself. He took a string and tied the ends around his thumbs. He then sat the string over the tip of the spindle stick. As he moved his hands back and forth he knew it would be difficult. He had worked hard enough to create a thin sheen of sweat in the small but rapid motions, but he managed to make an ember that could be used properly. It took several tedious minutes of coaxing, but he managed to create a friction fire.

  His book knowledge was already coming in handy.

  The fire was tended to for five hours until Shade finally returned with a large white and brown goat between his impressive teeth. It was a ram and its curved horns were pointed lifelessly at the ground. Its body was wet and Alex’s best guess was that Shade either caught it in water or washed it off before bringing it here. Shade then dropped the large carcass by his brother’s side. Alex was glad he still carried the small knife in his back pocket. The habit came in handy.

  After cleaning the goat for its meat and using several sticks to cook it with, the two of them discussed what came next. Alex said “We need to go find Takka.”

  “The man in the Trade City of Nicronane?” Shade guessed correctly. “How did Kori say we could find him again?” He laid next to Alex’s right while watching his food cook. His head dropped flat on the ground and his fangs pierced the sandy soil. His hunt wasn’t difficult, but not eating right had consequences.

  “She said to look for this symbol over one of the eves of a fruit stand.” Alex held up his silver ring with the engraving of a leaf. “She said she last remembered that he was last located in the southwest district of the city.”

  “How far will we need to travel to reach that city?” He lifted his head to look at his human brother who looked as tired as he felt.

  “Do you remember the map from the book?” Shade nodded and his ears twitched, a squirrel scurried up a tree behind them and was telling them to leave. “I would say it will take us three or four weeks to journey there.” Alex admitted and Shade sighed and put his head back down knowing it would be a very long journey. Alex rubbed Shade’s back and resolved him by saying “Does it really matter how long it takes so long as we’re together?” Shade smiled, but didn’t look away. “I thought so. Now let’s eat our fill and get a good night’s sleep. I’ll go back into town in the morning and buy a pack so we can carry more supplies during our journey. It will come in handy.”

  Alex was only able to eat a leg while Shade ate the rest of his meal.

  They put the fire out and hid in the tree cover for added safety. Alex slept with his back against a tree. Shade laid curled on his side and hi
s large head was laying directly on Alex’s lap, sabers pointing away from his brother’s torso. He was warm, full and fast asleep in minutes and Alex wasn’t far behind.

  Before Alex made his way back to the market harbor the next morning Shade stopped him and said “Alex, while your gone I will scout around the surrounding area and find some trails and roads we can make use of. It will make our travel easier, I’m hoping. Don’t worry, I will find ones where the humans travel on them the least. Good hunting.” With that he walked into the woods. Alex smiled knowing he had the right idea.

  It took Alex twenty minutes to return to the market. It was similar in many ways to his own, right down to the smell. The only difference was the size; it was half as large as the one on the island. Despite its size it had a larger transportation system. The horse drawn carts carried the cargo from the ships down a large road. The goods were almost all headed for the trade city. At least one weapon’s class person accompanied the cargo because Alex was told that fiends weren’t the only trouble you could come across, bandits thrived off the wagons. Most of the weapon’s class people in the market were actually Royal Guards, but they looked more like mercenaries. A few sailors from the Falcon were heading back to the ship to unload the cargo, per the captain’s orders yesterday and waved when they spotted Alex in the early hours.

  With the help of the locals and a few silvers Alex found where he needed to go. His first stop was to a pack store. Inside was an elderly woman who sewed cloth backpacks and leather saddle packs for horses, mules and oxen. She was a kindly lady who helped choose the right pack he would need for a long journey. It was perfect because it has a large carrying capacity. He knew it wouldn’t get in his way when he carried the skins. She charged him only a single silver piece which was reasonable for the quality he received. Alex never liked haggling.

  After he left her shop he walked to the stands in the center of the market. A metal bowl would be perfect for boiling unclean water and making stews so it went inside the pack first. He bought fifteen apples and sat them in before closing the top of the pack. He bought four oranges at another fruit stand and the hawker took his silver and gave three coppers in change. A spice seller wasn’t difficult to find because it gave an aroma that made ones mouth water and he bought a sack of purified sea salt and put the contents inside the bag. Now his large pack was filled to capacity.

  As Alex started leaving the market to meet up with Shade something flashed in his eyes and gained his attention. He turned to the source of the flash and found a knife seller. He couldn’t help himself as he was drawn up to the stand. Behind a desk were a husband and wife working on forging a new blade. She held a piece of metal as long as a person’s middle finger, with metal tongs. Her husband’s item was a large oval hammer and when he struck the metal, the blade of the metal that had been struck became red hot. Alex watched in amazement as they worked together to create a knife without the requirement of a forge. When he shifted his weight the woman spotted Alex looking and they stopped working.

  She wiped her hands on her apron and asked “Can we help you?”

  Alex thought quickly and asked “Aye, I was wondering about getting a new blade to replace my old one.” He pulled out his old knife and sat it on the table between himself and the woman. “This has worked well for me, but it requires constant sharpening and it gets tedious sometimes when time isn’t available.” She grabbed Alex’s small, fixed bladed knife and agreed with the statement. Her husband also didn’t have any objections, but he looked at the customer with curiosity. “I was hoping you have a good folding pocket knife that doesn’t require too much care or attention?”

  The man grinned and held up his item. “You came to the right place, Son. You see, my hammer is a level three specialized weapon. I can hammer any metal without a fire source and once the metal cools it never needs to be re-sharpened. That is the guarantee I offer my patrons and that’s why my wares cost a little more than what they would usually pay for a knife.”

  “Well… let me see what you’ve have to offer.” The man grinned strangely and grabbed a tray full of folding knives. Each was undoubtedly a great quality blade and the handles were made from wood, bone or metal. He tested each one and the balance and sharpness were perfect. Alex eventually found a black, wooden handled knife with a four inch blade. It cost nine silver and three copper pieces, but Alex knew a blade like this would be extremely handy in a variety of situations. He left his old knife with them and they said they could re-forge the metal.

  Returning to their last rendezvous point in the woods, Shade was resting contently under a shady tree. Alex intentionally stepped on a dry stick and the snap made his head come up to look at his arrival. He stood and shook off the white sand from his fur before meeting up half way. He asked “Did you find anything we could use?”

  Shade grinned. “Of course I did. There are game trails all over this place, but most lead away from where we need to go and others wound up as dead ends. I also watched the main road and found that a caravan moves every hour so if we wanted, we could take the shortest paths with minimal risks.”

  “I’m impressed. If you say there is minimal risk, I’ll believe you. Lead the way to the main road.” He grinned and turned. Alex grabbed the two full water skins he left behind earlier in the morning and slung one over each shoulder, adding their weight and his pack to the mix.

  It was easy walking by Shade’s side through the trees. He smelled the trails when they would fork and when Shade would find one he liked, he kept walking. His sense of smell surpassed Alex’s, but their hearing and sight were almost as acute. He explained that the more scents he picked up the less likely they’d be led down the wrong path.

  Shade asked what Alex bought and was shown everything while they walked. He really enjoyed seeing a new knife. Shade knew that his meals would be cleaned much more quickly and efficiently now. He liked the apple from the ship, but never had an orange before. Alex told Shade that they would share it tonight instead of him going out for another hunt.

  Once they made it to another bend they saw the main road not far ahead. The sand gradually went from white to a light brown as the greenery thickened. The road appeared empty for the moment so they hunkered down in a hidden depression and were blocked by foliage.

  About twenty to thirty minutes later Shade and Alex heard the familiar sound from the clopping of a horse and the spinning of wagon wheels. They watched as five loaded wagons passed by them and he knew why Shade said caravan. Each driver was calmly guiding their steeds down the long stretch of dirt road and the Royal Guards were keenly surveying the land, looking for any signs of trouble. Shade remained completely silent and watched as the caravan moved down the road.

  They waited five minutes after they heard the end of the sounds. After that, they walked out and made their way down the road. They talked silently and made plans as they traveled. About two hours later they dived into a tall thicket when they heard another caravan approaching. While they waited they rehydrated and snacked on half of an apple. Once they left, they continued their journey together.

  After three more convoy’s they knew that there wouldn’t be any other’s because it was getting dark so they’d set up camp.

  They located a grassy clearing once it was dark as well. Since neither Shade nor Alex had any fun since the passing of Gambit, Shade suggested a game to relieve their pent up energy and anger. Neither of them were hungry tonight and there was more than enough sustenance in the area to have a little relaxation. Shade’s golden eyes danced as he offered “How about we spar and you can help me on my coordination?”

  “Sounds like a plan.”

  First they sparred like they’ve done for months and the skirmishes helped ease Alex’s pent up tension over their unfavorable situation. They chased each other and dodged attacks, enjoying the physical exertion. They even started doing close range strikes and those were the most difficult because they required intense focus, concentration and fast reflexes in a smal
l and confined space. Alex had to dodge claws and teeth and Shade had to evade getting poked in the eye or getting something shoved in his nose, usually grass, but sometimes mud was available. Alex was sweating and breathing hard while Shade panted and sat on his haunches. His plan had worked because the tension had vanished.

  For sharpening Shade’s coordination, Alex found a pine tree knot in the shape and size of a fist. They stood twenty feet apart and Alex would throw the knot in difficult patterns and ever changing for Shade to catch in his teeth. He liked this because it helped him with his hunting and because he read that dogs play a game called fetch with their owners. Shade loved chasing things anyway.

  Shade and Alex were soon tired and the unbeatable nose of the four-legged brother found them a water source, but the water was stagnant. Alex found a flint rock earlier in the day so he took it out of his pocket along with the new black handled knife. Alex made a bundle of wood from a fallen limb and an old bird’s nest was perfect for getting the fire started. He struck the flint against the back of the new knife and the nest took to flame quickly. As the fire burned Alex noticed that the blade remained truly unscathed after getting struck by a rock. It was already worth the price. He filled the newly acquired bowl with the unmoving water and sat it in the coals until it boiled.

  It took half the night, but the two of them drank to their hearts content and filled each water skin. They each enjoyed the orange and three more apples apiece.

  Shade slept on his side and Alex used his chest as a head rest and his large heartbeat put him to sleep quicker than it usually did. They left the fire burning because it had gotten extremely cold.

  Shade woke Alex just as the sky started to brighten. While he put on the pack and the full skins he kicked dirt on the coals of the smoldering fire.

  Today they only had to wait for only three caravans.

  Four days later their supply of fruits were all eaten and Shade hunted for an adult deer; per Alex’s request. It took him all day and a quarter of the night for him to come back successful. The prey was as large as he was and it was an old buck that had an impressive, twisting rack. Shade had to drag the carcass’s back end because it was difficult to carry it all in his mouth. After Shade sat the prey down by his brother’s side Alex began cleaning it very carefully with his new knife. While the fire crackled Shade laid close by and watched as his brother meticulously worked. The skin was in great condition because Shade went for the throat only, so Alex carefully cut it because Gambit taught him how to work leather two years earlier, but the lesson came back quickly. While he cut and cleaned the meat he asked “Shade, what did it take to bring him down?”

  He crossed his large front paws. His mouth completely opened into a menacing yawn. “It wasn’t easy. He was in a pack of seven does. I needed to spook them, and during my charge this horned one broke from the bulk of the pack. Since he was alone and somewhat slower I chased him down and he slid on some wet grass. As he fell, I leapt and finished him off before he could get away.” He scratched behind his head with his back paw. “Why did you want me to hunt something that is almost as fast as I am? It was hard enough trying to catch even that old one.”

  The meat was cut in long strips and one was held up in front of him. “I know it was difficult and I know how hard you worked for your victory, but we needed the extra meat.” He tilted his bulky head to the side slightly, curious. “I am going to smoke the meat all night and by sunrise it will be ready. If I smoke the meat it will last at least a week for us and we won’t have to stop every other day for you to catch food for us. I will smoke enough to fill the entire bag and we will eat the rest like we always have.” He licked his chops at the thought.

  When Alex had several pounds of stripped meat ready he had already made a rack of sticks made while waiting all day. He laid the meat over the smoking coals, the smoke would do its job through the night. Alex took another coal and started another fire to cook the two foreleg muscles and the meaty ribs. While Shade and Alex waited for the meals to cook properly they told each other what they were looking forward to in the coming weeks. Shade wanted to mostly show his strength to the evil and unintelligent humans who hurt others for pleasure. Alex simply wanted to help fight for a new future and Shade said they were the same things to him. It was impossible to disagree with such a view.

  Alex ate until full and gave Shade the rest. He ate until even he couldn’t stomach another bite. Shade said to smoke the last full leg of meat and save it until morning for breakfast.

  While they slept with full stomachs, the meat smoked.

  Around daybreak they arose and ate the last leg along with drinking until their stomach’s sloshed. The night’s smoking went perfectly so Alex stuffed all the cured meat inside his pack. He also took the deer’s skin and scraped and cut it in a working oval pattern before rolling up and tucking it under his arm. It still required much work, especially scraping all the tallow. Shade didn’t say a word as he did this, but he was curious if his alert ears were any indication.

  For the next fourteen days they hiked, hid and hunted six days after the smoked meat disappeared. Shade smelled an apple tree and Alex had fun retrieving the apples hidden in the woods. Shade stood completely still as his brother climbed up on his back, Alex was grateful for the added height. He placed one foot over Shade’s shoulders and the other in the center of his spine. The apples were almost ready because they were still turning red, but they were good enough nonetheless. He cut down twenty one apples, one at a time, and dropped them all on the skin of the deer. It had almost dried completely and been stretched out to make a perfect and dry platform. It helped keep them from sleeping on the cold ground and it stretched out enough to incorporate both of them for the night.

  All of the apples collected fit inside his pack. When the pack was full they ate their fill before continuing their journey. Shade ate six more apples and Alex managed to eat two during the traveling the next day.

  While Shade and Alex bedded down for the night, next to a small and comfortable fire, a strange sound rang through the night. At first it sounded like a bird. Alex sat up straight and Shade lifted his head when the sound reached them. They both looked off to the left and then to each other. “Alex, what was that?” He held his index finger to his lips and Shade’s ears perked. A few seconds later the sound clanged again along with a thud and someone was yelling. Then came the unmistakable sounds of clashing steel.

  Alex jumped up, recognizing the sound of battle and Shade did as well. “Shade, there is a fight close by. Should we check it out or leave it be?”

  “Someone could be in serious trouble and be in need of help. I say we should see. Just incase…” Shade put out the fire as Alex pushed their things away.

  They silently stalked together into the trees and towards the noise. Without making a single sound they weaved closer until there came a faint orange glow growing brighter the further they made their way. They slowed down even more when more metallic sounds clanged and were getting louder. Once they were close enough Shade lowered himself and Alex followed suit. They heard more yelling and now it was clear enough to understand.

  “You bastards enlisted my Brother because you held my niece hostage and then you killed her once the seal dried! None of you have any honor you…” then there was more fighting and then the man Alex overheard screamed out in pain.

  What is going on over there? This sounds serious. Enlisted? Did he mean the Royal Guard? What should we do? Alex thought wildly. Then there came a malicious voice giving orders. “Grab his item and hold it as evidence. You three hold him down. Healer, tend to my leg.”

  Slowly Shade and Alex stopped once they made it to where they could see.

  There were five men and a woman in a clearing, hidden from the road, in the inconspicuous shelter of the trees. A small hut was built close to a hidden lake that neither Shade nor Alex knew existed. Shade didn’t even smell it which might be because the wind blew from the opposite direction. The ground was covere
d in grass and the area was lit by five burning torches in the dead of night, shafts buried in the ground. The government issued uniforms showed that five of the men were all Royal Guards. A squad?

  At realizing this, anger and worry coursed through Alex.

  The odd man of the group had short brown hair, but he was covered in dirt and blood. Shade’s nose began twitching, he could smell the salty copper. The leader of the squad had two other men holding each of the captive’s arms and a third man held an axe to the back of his head. The brown haired person wasn’t standing under his own power and the blood running off his face told Alex they had struck his head. The other leader and healer were a few feet away. The specialists are usually the squad leaders and this man had a small ledger he was writing on, while a middle aged woman was using some kind of red glove, touching a wound at her leader’s leg. The leader was a tall and well built man with gray and black hair. He was clean shaven and looked handsome, but his sneer reminded Alex of his cousin.

  While the healer tended to his leg, the specialist looked up at the captured man. “Alright… Marlin. You see, my item is actually one of three.” He dangled the ledger and a quill in front of everyone. “Whatever I write on one, the other two instantly relay the messages to whom I’ve given to my superiors. It comes in quite handy when relaying information over a long distance.” The specialist looked down at the parchment for a moment to read. “And now one of my superiors has just issued me an order…” He lifted the pad up and cleared his throat dramatically. The Healer moved back and grabbed a long metallic stick as she moved. Alex also noticed that the leader’s leg no longer had a mark on it. “My superior has stated, Give him two choices. The first, is that he remains alive and uses his talents to support the people or else have him put to death for not obeying the law. Being asked into service is our greatest duty for the good of the people. It is up to him to make his choice. Serve or perish. This is an order.” He put his pad in his pocket and grinned in a superior fashion. “What will be your answer, Marlin?”

  The man, Marlin, slowly raised his head up and smiled, almost looked mad. “If you think I will serve under a tyrant. You’re utterly misinformed.”

  Shade and Alex glanced at each other. He might not understand human language, but he completely understood the gesture Marlin just used with his suddenly free hand. Then Marlin had taken a deep breath and shot a globule of bloodied spit onto the squad’s leader. It was a great shot because it landed right in the center of the man’s forehead. Marlin had a great lung capacity.

  Once the man wiped the bloody spittle off his forehead Alex could see the rage and the humiliation growing on the leader’s face. It was worse because the man had just been severely disrespected him in front of the entire squad. In a cold and horrifying voice the leader said “Kill him and let’s be off.”

  Alex couldn’t help thinking on how his uncle had been in a similar position. This isn’t right. Five against one isn’t fair, nor should there be honor in taking a life of a man who wants to live free. What’s worse is he’s already beaten. Alex thought with passion. He knew he could at least raise the odds of this lone man’s survival. Alex’s heart was pounding in his chest and so was his rage, but it was the normal kind, not like what overcame him at his uncle’s execution. Shade didn’t even try to stop his brother as he stood up, because his hackles were standing up as well and his lips were drawing back. Shade wanted to fight too.

  Alex spoke clearly and calmly as he walked forward, towards the group. “Delay that order!”

  As one, everyone turned their heads in Alex’s immediate direction. They all instantly went on their guard. Since he was walking through the shadows, they were unable see his approach. The axe man withdrew his blade from behind the neck of Marlin and moved around to protect the specialist and healer. Then the specialist demanded “Show Yourself!”

  “Gladly,” He kept walking silently. Once Alex passed the tree line he casually stopped once they could see him. They gasped because they saw a man clad in black appear out of nowhere. They could all see this towering man that came into their midst and were uncertain of his motives. “And what do we have over here?” Alex began to count them with a dramatic finger. “What, only five Guards and you couldn’t handle them, Marlin? Your getting sloppy.” He spoke to the bleeding man who was trying to remain conscious.

  He smiled weakly. “Sorry about that. I must have gotten lazy living out here.” Marlin wondered who this person was, but hoped that he was an ally and not with these men so he went along with it.

  Alex shook his head. “I told you not to seclude yourself. See what happens when you don’t listen to me?”

  All attentions were pulled back to the leader as he demanded “Who are you and what is your relationship to this man!?”

  “Like I’m going to tell a lowly puppet like you?” Alex looked back at Marlin again. “Marlin, would you be too upset with me if I stepped in and handled these weaklings which were obviously too much for you to handle?”

  All of the guard’s faces went red, but Marlin stated casually “I’m not sure… I will let you know later.” Marlin grinned at this stranger’s confidence.

  “Did you just call us weak!?” Alex grinned evilly at the warrior with the axe. “Do you think you can beat all of us by yourself? You can’t even rely on his help; or are you blind of his current condition?” The Guard tilted his head towards Marlin and smiled back.

  “Who said I’m by myself?” His smirk was wiped away. He began searching the surrounding night to see only blackness. “Would you like to meet my back up?” Before he could process and properly answer Alex, he said “Shade.”

  Everyone looked at one another. Then the healer asked her squad in an awkward voice “Did he just bark at us?” They didn’t know what was happening.

  Before anyone could answer her Shade moved from his crouch and began his approach. Then there was a low and fierce rumble interrupted the silence of the night. His growl had the desired effect. They were all stunned still and frightened as Alex saw teeth and sabers coming into his peripheral vision. He put his hand leisurely on top of Shade’s head. He let out another primal growl that froze them even more in place. Alex laughed and said “As you can tell, he just loves it when people outnumber a person five to one. He loves evening up the odds. Aye, he is a Shadow Fang and you know just what they are capable of.” Alex looked at the leader, grinning. “Now I will give you two options. Either leave here peacefully and leave Marlin or I can let my little brother here finally get something hardy to eat. Your choice.”

  The specialist spoke a few moments later and for his entire squad. “We will take the first offer. Let Marlin go and let’s leave this place, I’m not one who wants to see if that creature is real or not. We are not equipped for this.”

  The two men let go of Marlin’s arms and he fell completely on his face. He was so stunned at the person’s brother and a dizzying headache that he forgot to brace himself. The squad slowly started backing into the other side of the trees. Alex then saw a flash of russet. “Healer! Put his item on the ground. You don’t want to be chased down.” She quickly dropped it on the grass and the five soon vanished from sight after mounting horses and fleeing.

  Alex made his way over to Marlin and knelt by his side. He turned him on his back and asked calmly “Are you mad with me?”

  He coughed and smiled. “Nay, I cannot be mad at someone who just saved my life from that squad.” Then his blood wiped eyes widened in fear. Alex looked to his right and Shade was looking down at the two of them while listening to the escaping squad. “That is a real Shadow Fang. Is he going to kill us?”

  That made him laugh. “Nay, we are like brothers. I have an ability to speak with fiends and animals.” Marlin watched in fearful fascination as the man looked up to the Shadow Fang as it rumbled and barked so quickly that he figured they were communicating. “He is asking where are you hurt?”

  Marlin took a deep breath and winced as pain exploded all over, but
originated in only one area, his skull. “Just the top of my head; the third man came up from behind and did me in. I’m glad you showed up when you did.”

  “Aye, me too. Is that your home?” Marlin nodded and then Alex looked back to Shade to say “Go get his item for me please while I get him inside.” Shade nodded and walked away. Alex looked down and asked “Marlin, can you stand or do you need some assistance?”

  “Definitely need assistance.” He winced as he touched his head.

  Marlin managed to lift his head as his rescuer slid his right arm under his shoulders. He lifted him into a sitting position. By this time the Shadow Fang came back with the reddish brown item. He dropped the item in Marlin’s lap. The Shadow Fang had a look of unequaled intelligence and Marlin noticed its eyes widened momentarily. It had an idea and he went off into the woods without barking another word. Marlin smiled as he looked at his item.

  This item was actually a fishing rod. It was a cane of some kind. It stretched at least ten feet long. Marlin grabbed the base of the pole and willed it to shrink, it began to collapse in sections all by itself. It collapsed down into a foot long rod, the perfect size for carrying. The tip held a fist sized black bobber and a three pronged hook at the end of the bobber. He clutched his item tightly in his right hand, like his life wasn’t whole without it. Marlin nodded that he was ready and sucked a deep breath through his teeth.

  With a solid effort, he groaned painfully as Alex stood straight up, bringing Marlin as well. When he took a weak step forward so did Alex, while being careful of the serious condition. The ground around them was riddled with fist sized holes and they managed to avoid them all. If not for Alex’s keen vision they would have definitely fell and broken a leg. The forest was quiet and the slapping water from the lake’s bank helped give some kind of noise relief.

  They walked up three small steps to Marlin’s small hut. The hut was lifted a foot off the ground and surrounded by dry grass. The outside was coated in green moss and smelled oddly of flowers, mainly jasmine permeated it all. The door was open and Alex used his toes to push it in. It was dark inside; even for him. Marlin gave instruction about the layout of the room and the tall man obeyed. Soon he found himself on his cot. Alex gently helped him inside and laid him down. Marlin said “There is a small hearth in the center. Find a way to light it.”

  He hurried back outside and grabbed one of the torches and brought it back inside. He used the flames to find the fireplace and it was situated in the center of the room. It was a stone fire pit and above was a hole in the top of the hut that ventilated the rising smoke. A stack of wood lay off to the side and Alex tossed in two logs. He laid the wooden torch in the pit and soon the pieces took. The room was small and basic, but no less a home to the occupant. It was circular just like the outside. Marlin and the cot were situated to Alex’s right. The only door in or out was to his back. To his front was a dresser and beside it stood a cleaning table. There were still visible scales from him cleaning fish.

  Alex stood up and asked “Do you have any clean linens?” Marlin pointed to his dresser. “Is the lake’s water pure enough to drink or clean your wounds with?” Marlin shook his head. Then Alex had to ask a heavy question. “How long do you think it will take the Guard to muster reinforcements and return?”

  The blood finally slowed and Alex could see loyal blue eyes. “We’ll have till morning, at minimum before they come back in a larger group. That specialist probably used his ledger to do so already.” Alex couldn’t help thinking how the man was going to put him and Shade in the report.

  A noise alerted them to an arrival on the front step. Is our enemy back already? Alex thought. He was relieved to see Shade stick his head through the hut’s opening. His hand relaxed its pressure on the knife in his pocket. In Shade’s teeth were all of their supplies. The backpack and water skins were behind his closed sabers. He also somehow managed to throw the deer-skin leather over his back. Shade took another step inside and opened his mouth to drop everything on the floor. He then looked up at Alex with neutral golden eyes. “I brought all of our things. I guessed we were staying here for a short time so we do not need to go back there. Is he doing alright?”

  “He needs some work, but at least he won’t die on us.”

  “That’s a good thing.” He looked past Alex and realized Marlin gawking at them. “He looks worse than you did when we first met.” Shade grinned at his own humor. “Do what you need to do. I’ll keep him company.”

  “Thanks,” Alex walked forward and brought their things inside. He then walked back to take the leather off Shade’s back and rolled it up. It took some work, but Shade managed to squeeze through the front door and lay down by the fire. Marlin watched all of this with fascinated eyes. He never heard, let alone see a spectacle such as this. He was seeing it, but believing it was difficult to comprehend. His pulsating head didn’t help matters either. Alex dug inside his bag and maneuvered the bowl out from the remaining apples. Before going outside, he shut the door.

  He filled the bowl and saw that the other torches were still burning. On a night such as this they were a beacon. He used his feet to dig the dirt and dropped the remaining four sticks in that dirt. They were soon extinguished.

  Once inside, the two of them were just staring at each other and remained in the same places Alex had left them. He smiled as he put the bowl in some hot coals. He then went to the dresser and found that there were only two clean pairs of linens left inside the dresser, he took out the cleanest one. He then returned to the boiling water with a white tunic. Alex used the water to sterilize the tunic, pulled it out and then he took the water off the coals and placed it onto the wood floor to allow it to be cooled. As the cloth remained wet and hot he used his knife to cut strips of the tunic to make proper bandages. Then he placed the strips over the coals to dry quicker. Marlin didn’t object to the mutilation of his clothes.

  Alex then began cleaning Marlin’s wounds and blood from his face. He went as carefully as he could, but Alex told him that he needed to clean the wounds in Marlin’s hair of debris or risk a serious infection. It was a bad wound and Alex couldn’t fault him for tearing up. The main gash was deep enough to see the white bone of his skull. During a painful outburst, Shade placed his heavy paws on Marlin’s chest to keep him from moving. The weighted help he offered was needed to hasten Alex’s work. After two hours and three more boiled waters, the wound was immaculate. He used the very last strip to tie the wound closed and bandaged it tightly around Marlin’s head. During the end of the cleaning process he passed out from the pain, but Shade kept him still nonetheless.

  Shade was still curled close to the fire as was Alex, a few hours later. Shade said “I’m glad we were in time to save him and we did it without shedding unnecessary blood. I wonder how quickly our names will come to rise after this? Shade and Alex, the most powerful of brothers,” He smiled at his vivid imagination. Then he looked up at his two legged brother meaningfully. “What are we going to do about him?”

  Alex weighed the options for Marlin and none were good enough for the goals they had in mind. “We will leave him after he wakes. We are still in danger and we don’t need anyone slowing us down. He might be a good asset, but might be a liability as well. We don’t know him either.”

  A little while later Alex saw Marlin’s tantalizing soaps and knew he needed a bath. He picked it up and Shade followed him outside. Alex cleaned himself and clothes first. Then Shade used almost half the cake himself as Alex scrubbed his coat clean and thorough. Shade enjoyed getting a bath, and loved swimming just as much; if not more.

  When relatively dry, they made it back inside and noticed Marlin sitting up and drinking from one of their water skins. They waited till he finished and then he realized who came back. “I’m sorry. I was thirsty.”

  “Don’t worry. We used your soap to clean ourselves up. It was an even trade.” Shade shook his wet fur with perfect timing. Alex tossed the soap back on the table and Marlin handed him th
e now half empty water container.

  After he finished apologizing for them saving him Alex said “Think nothing of it, but I’m regretful for saying this. This is where we must part company. Where we are going will be dangerous. I’m glad that you were alright, but soon you too must leave your home because your friends will be back.”

  His blue eyes judged Alex oddly as he stood and put his pack and water skins on. Marlin didn’t say a word to their packing. He put the rolled leather under his arm and said to Shade “It’s time.” He nodded and backed outside the front door. It was just beginning to brighten as they left Marlin’s home. A flock of geese also flew overhead as they departed, squawking in the fresh morning.

  They made it to the road and walked for most of the day. They each ate an apple around noon and drank the last of the water from the last skin. An hour after that the two of them heard something and dived into a thicket. They were lucky that they did because there were fifteen Royal Guards riding swiftly on horseback, going in the direction to Marlin’s. Alex hoped he was gone by the time they arrived. After things settled and it was safe again they continued east.

  During the night the two were warmed by a fire.

  In the morning when Alex was packing their belongings the two of them heard a dry twig snap. Shade looked at Alex and he nodded, knowing something or someone was close. Shade then bolted into the woods, without making sound, as Alex quickly finished putting their things away. Once he finished seconds later he then closed his eyes to focus on his hearing.

  A minute later someone yelled “Don’t Kill Me!!!”

  Alex knew the voice and he yelled “Shade! Hold him down till I get there!”

  “He isn’t going anywhere!” Shade retorted in a growl.

  He made his way through the trees at a casual pace because many thoughts were flashing in his head. Soon the massive form of Shade came into view, standing with a large clawed paw centered over the follower’s sternum. Shade’s teeth were inches away from Marlin’s pale face. Marlin had changed into a brown tunic, dark green pants and leather boots, but he still kept on the wrap for his wounded head. Off to the side of the intruder was a pack with its contents spilled. Putting this together was easy. They were being followed. Alex made it to Shade’s side and patted his ribs. He then pulled his teeth back, but kept weight on his paw. Alex’s voice and tone turned even as he asked “Why were you following us, Marlin? As you can tell, Shade doesn’t like to be followed. Choose your words carefully. Neither of us are in a good mood at this moment.”

  “So his name is Shade… it is good to meet you.” Marlin made the mistake of moving his arm and Shade growled and forced more weight on his paw. He quickly took the hint and became immobile. His blue eyes locked onto the Shadow Fang’s owner’s and he knew the danger he faced. “Last night, I would have been killed if it weren’t for you and Shade. They wanted to force my enlistment like they did my brother, but they didn’t have anything to hang over my head. You see, I’m a high level four and almost a level five weapon’s class warrior with some specialist traits. I thought that since I don’t want to join the Guard’s and I owe you my life, I thought you could allow me to join you. I can pull my weight and add muscle to your back if… you’ll allow me.” Then his voice changed as it became thick and choked. “I have nowhere else to go. All, but my brother, are dead and you have a sense of honor. I have nothing to lose and you have much to gain.

  “A debt is owed and I owe you my life, we can become friends.”

  Those words were like a solid blow to Alex’s chest. He never had a person say they wanted to become friends with him without asking first.

  Marlin was telling the truth, eyes like those were honest and the weapon’s class are known for their unbreakable loyalty. Alex looked at Shade and said to him “Let him up, but keep an eye on him.”

  As he slowly removed his paw he asked what was said and Alex told him. Then he asked for his brother to relay a message. Marlin slowly stood and eyed them cautiously while returning the spilled supplies. They were both making sounds that weren’t understandable. They took only a short time to come to a conclusion. As he slung his bag over his shoulders Alex relayed the message. “Shade says you have two rules you must follow if you travel with us. First, if you are lying and deceive us he will eat you and second if you threaten either of us he will eat you. Do you accept his terms?”

  Instantly Marlin answered them both with a sure “Aye!”

  Shade looked for conformation, but Alex spoke to Marlin. “Write your answer in the sand. He can read and you should answer to him.”

  Marlin looked at them skeptically, but complied with the request. He knelt down and wrote his answer in the soil. It gave Alex the knowledge that Marlin was literate and could communicate with Shade if there was a need and he wasn’t around. He moved back as Shade moved forward to read it. A smile began tugging against the flaps of his lips. Then Shade started writing himself. Marlin looked completely dumbfounded at seeing a fiend write. Then he began to read in a whisper. “As long as you obey my two rules you may keep your head.” Then Marlin’s head snapped up at Alex. “I’ve always thought fiends were just stupid creatures that lived only by instinct.”

  Alex laughed at hearing someone saying what he meant. He’s always respected blunt people, even if they didn’t like him. “That is mostly the case, but it seems like predators can have more complex thoughts. And fiends sound clearer than some animals. Insects and reptiles run more on instinct and their voices are harder to hear and their memories are short. Apex predators like the Fury or like Shade here, have just as or maybe more complex thoughts than most humans. I won’t let Shade know what you said because he might nip at you or do worse.”

  Shade wanted to know what was said to make Alex laugh and he instead made up a funny comment on the spot. It was either that or tell the truth and have blood being spilt without reason. He grinned and then Alex said to them both “We had better get moving.”

  Without hesitating, Marlin grabbed his pack and caught up.

  Shade decided to stand between them as they made their way down the road. He didn’t trust this stranger, but the scent of fear kept him from attacking. While they walked Marlin and Alex introduced themselves properly.

  Around noon they had to wait for a passing convoy. While they waited out of sight Marlin said “You must have a powerful item if you can command Fiends. What kind of item is it? I’m just curious.”

  Alex rubbed Shade’s head as he still sat between them. He laid on his side with his large shoulders against his brother’s hip. He kept his head up and watched Marlin like another meal. “Actually, I was born without one.” His blue eyes spoke disbelief. “Ever since I can remember I was mocked and teased by the other children once they realized the truth of my words. Then there were the voices that I could hear day in and out, throughout my entire life. There wasn’t usually anyone around so I thought that I was crazy and everyone would agree if I told someone. My only solace was with my with my books, they didn’t judge me. I was always a weak child and I didn’t do anything about it. Six or seven months ago I found out that the voices I’ve always heard were actually from animals. Some were unreadable, some had short memories and were remarkably dumb; like you said earlier. That was until I met Shade here as a pup.

  “My life changed from that point on. I began to work hard and built my muscles so I could protect him as best I could. I taught him to read and write, his favorite things to read are adventure stories.” Marlin chuckled and Alex continued. “He taught me what it was like to have a real family.” Marlin stopped laughing once he realized the truth of Alex’s words. “When I was five my mother passed away. I lived with my loving uncle and my…cousin, since her passing. Shade’s parents were killed by his uncle and I killed him with a stick through the eye.” Alex lifted up his left sleeve to show the scars from the fight. Marlin didn’t believe till the scars were brandished before him. “Shade and I had nobody to watch out for us, but each other.”
>
  “What happened?” Marlin asked in empathy.

  “Remember what transpired the night before…? Well my Cousin joined the Royal Guard and had my uncle executed a few weeks ago. I was there to see it happen, but unlike with you I was too late and too slow to make a difference.”

  “Then where are we going? Are you trying to get revenge for his death?”

  “Nay, I’m not out here for revenge.” Alex sighed and spoke to Shade and asked if he should be let in on our plan. He said it was alright, but to tread with the upmost caution. Alex looked Marlin directly in the eye. “We want to change how things run in the lands. We are going to join the group Freelan.” A pleased smile showed on Marlin’s lips. “What is that expression for?”

  “Because my parents fought for Freelan and they died honorably. Here let me show you…” He pulled his pack around and started digging. He stopped and pulled out a silver ring. Then he slid it directly on the correct finger and showed Alex his own inheritance. “My mother left both me and my brother a ring. This one is mine. I have wanted to join them myself, but I was afraid of getting into something that would eventually kill me. You’re going to find Takka, aren’t you? My mother told me to find him last year before I got word that she had passed on.”

  It suddenly felt like he was in Marlin’s trap after hearing what he said, but Marlin seemed as shocked as he was. They did have something in common. Honesty overcame Alex. “Aye,” Then he changed the subject. “Tell me. You said you were a weapon and specialist class. And higher levels have more attributes. What are yours?”

  Slowly he pulled the collapsed version of the rod and he showed it to Shade who watched him with a critical eye. “You saw me compact this and it extends per my thought.” Marlin then willed it, becoming ten feet long again. “The rod itself is like a stick. It stings like crazy and won’t break under any kind of forced strain, but it cannot kill in most cases. The string is a thin translucent filament that cannot be broken by any means too. It also extends out to three hundred feet before it can’t make anymore.” He smiled as he said “The next abilities are why they wanted me to join. First my hook won’t ever get caught on debris because I can make the curves straighten and the barbs flatten. It also works in conjunction with the special abilities of my bobber.” The, fist sized, ebony colored ball hung when some line was released from the tip of the pole. “My bobber also has two abilities. When it’s floating in the water it can detect everything within a one mile half-sphere. I can close my eyes and see everything from fish, debris, aquatic life and even the subtle vibrations of the currents under the water.”

  “That is definitely a useful ability for fishing.” Alex admitted aloud.

  He shook his head. “That’s nothing compared to the next ability your about to see in a moment. My bobber’s weight can change, just like the extension of my pole. I can make it buoyant to float atop water or I can increase it to weigh over six hundred pounds. The weight stays the same to me, but to anyone else… Inform Shade I’m going to demonstrate.” Alex did and Shade agreed.

  There wasn’t anyone around so it made the demonstration safe. Marlin told them not to move and they didn’t. He stood tall and leaned the rod behind his shoulder with one hand. Like countless times before, he flung his arm forward and the rod bent back from the sudden flick. As the tip of the rod whistled through the air the bobber remained hanging from a foot of string. Just as the tip whipped forward the bobber flew true. It traveled thirty feet in a straight line, going faster because of the increased weight. Then at the very end of the path the bobber slammed into a tree and imbedded itself. The tree shook and some of the leaves dropped. The sound was a solid and instant thud that one could feel within their chest. Marlin had to yank the pole back but a large and splintered hole was still left in the tree. Then it hit Alex that was where those holes in the ground came from at his home.

  “So what do you think?” He asked while collapsing his pole back into a foot long rod for easier traveling.

  Alex smiled, as did Shade. Together they said “Welcome to the team.”

  Marlin grinned.

  During their trek towards the city they learned much about each other. Alex learned Marlin was twenty three and about his brother who had been taken away. He was also living alone at his home for over a year until recent events. He had many questions for Shade and Alex became the bridge between them. It had been a pleasant experience, having a new companion join them. It brought a feeling of contentment to both Shade and Alex. They weren’t alone anymore.