Forming the Company (Alpha World Book 2)

by Daniel Schinhofen

  Ioaniss nodded, “That is very simple and easy to do. What is the second request?”

  “I was attacked not long ago by assassins sent by a minor noble who was upset with me. As a Summoner, most of my power resides with my minions, which are forbidden in the city by law. I ask that Alpha Company and friends be excluded from this law, allowing us to summon our minions inside the city. It will only be to defend ourselves or to train our minions in the confines of our private abodes.”

  Rubbing his chin, Ioaniss thought over the suggestion, “I think I can get the King to issue such a decree if it applies only to Alpha Company.”

  “I would be bold enough to ask that the same apply to the Dead Man Inn as well. As it is well known to be a hangout of our kind, it shouldn’t cause a major stir to allow them to summon minions inside of the building.” Alburet asked, pressing just slightly. “Thirdly, I ask to be viewed favorably by the Court.”

  A chuckle escaped Ioaniss as he shook his head, “This is really all you are asking for?”

  “Yes,” Alburet replied. “I am a two-souled adventurer. I like earning my rewards for the most part. My kind also has a saying, 'Playing the long game', which means thinking far ahead. While a boatload of gold now is useful, it doesn't put me or my guild in any key positions. What I am asking for does, while also easing a small burden on others of my class.”

  “I shall speak with the king tomorrow morn. I will meet you at the Royal Museum two hours before midday to show you around with Marcus, if that is agreeable. I will have your answers there,” Ioaniss said as he stood up.

  Alburet stood, helping Stacia to her feet as well, “That is most agreeable, Sir Jones. I look forward to seeing you on the morrow.”

  Pulling a green bell-pull, Ioaniss waited a moment for Berk to come in, “Berk, we are done for the evening. Show our guests out, please.”

  Berk bowed to Ioaniss, before turning to the couple. “If you would follow me, please.”

  The couple were lead back the way they came, the hallways now empty of everyone but the occasional servant going about their tasks. Berk led them back out the door in silence, where the carriage stood waiting for them. “I do hope your visit was pleasant, and I wish you a good night.”

  Alburet helped Stacia into the carriage, but she paused just inside before taking her seat. Alburet followed her in to find Vladimir in the back. “Vladimir, didn't expect to see you here,” Alburet said civilly.

  Vladimir chuckled softly, a hint of fang visible as he did so. “What can I say? The possibility of new information is exciting to one of my age. Did Ioaniss agree that I could have a copy of the information?”

  “Yeah. Said he would rather not, but that the king would agree to it so I should go ahead and share it with you.” Alburet replied, pulling out his map. Vladimir already had his map out and ready. “Why the rush, though?”

  Vladimir eyed him for a moment, “You do not understand just how much knowledge should be contained in that structure. It was the last great work of the first empire. Almost any piece of it will fetch a high price, or a significant boon from the king.” His hand twitched slightly, “Are you ready?”

  Checking his map to make sure it was still set on the blur in the Dead Lands, Alburet nodded. “You will probably be disappointed by what I can share.” He tapped his map to Vladimir's, transferring the current data over. “There you go.”

  Vladimir opened his map, looking at it intently for a moment. His brow furrowed, “Why is it blurred?”

  “No idea. Sir Jones didn't know either. I would assume it is some kind of safeguard put in place by the people who built it. After all, you don't hand blueprints of a prison to just anyone.”

  A short bark of laughter came from Vladimir as he put his map away, “You make a valid point. What did you ask for as your boon?”

  “Three small things that Sir Jones needs to check on with the king. I will have my answer on them tomorrow. Nothing that should impact you in any way,” Alburet replied. The carriage had not yet moved. “Can we get going? We have another appointment to keep tonight.”

  Lips pursed slightly, Vladimir nodded. Opening the door, he climbed out. “I will see you again at some point, Alburet. I wish you a pleasant night,” He shut the door and a few seconds later the carriage started to move.

  You are now viewed as Friendly by Vladimir Dracon.

  Stacia let out her breath, “He be even more dangerous than he seemed, me thinks.”

  “I am sure. He is an old vampire that has won favor at the court. One of the reasons to try to keep him on our side. We’ll have a couple of hours after we get back before you’re taken by your mother. I’m thinking cuddle time is in order.” Alburet said. He draped an arm around her shoulder as he dismissed the notification.

  A soft sigh of contentment was her reply as she snuggled into his arm. “As master wishes,” she murmured a moment later.

  When they arrived back at the inn, the place was packed full of people who all fell silent as the duo entered the establishment. Stewart was right next to the door instead of at his customary table in the back. “Follow me,” he said as he walked through the room. The crowd parted for him, leaving a one-person path for them to follow. Alburet urged Stacia just ahead of him and trailed after her. When they got to the foot of the stairs, Stewart stepped out of the way. “Your mother will fetch you in two hours.” He turned back to the room, now filled with excited chatter as all eyes followed the duo.

  Alburet took Stacia's arm again as he led her to their room. Once inside he let out a sigh and leaned back against the door. Stacia presented her back to him. “Master, can ya unlace me please?”

  The soft words brought Alburet out of his thoughts, a smile falling into place, “Of course, Kitten.” Once he had the laces undone for her she doffed the dress while he got out of his outfit as well. He snagged her after she put the clothing away, dragging her to the bed firmly but gently. He threw them both onto it, pulling her tightly against him. “Cuddle time,” he murmured softly as he nuzzled her neck.

  The next two hours he spent just holding her as he considered just what the next two days would mean for him. A wife? He’d given up on the idea of any kind of committed relationship years ago, yet here he was about to have a wife. Did he even deserve this? Alburet's mind churned at the thought. He knew what he had done and he was sure happiness should not be given to cold blooded murderers. He shivered against her as he wondered if this was all going to be snatched from him soon.

  He felt Stacia pull him tighter to her, “It be fine, master. Nothin' will keep us apart soon.” Her words struck home, as she seemed aware of his turmoil.

  He was about to reply when a knock stopped him. Lilith's voice came clearly through the door. “It is time, Stacia. Say goodbye and come with me now.”

  Stacia pulled back just enough to meet Alburet's troubled eyes with her own loving eyes. She leaned down, touching foreheads, her eyes locked on his, “We will be one soon, master. I can nay thank ya enough for all the love ya have given me.” She kissed him gently then left his arms.

  Alburet watched her dress quickly then go, wondering if everything would really be okay. She glanced back at him once as she opened the door, blowing him a kiss with a giggle before she left with her mother, the door closing quietly behind her.

  Left alone in the room, Alburet tossed and turned on the bed for some time before sleep claimed him.

  ~ ~ ~

  The phone woke him up. Grumbling, Seamus reached for it. “What?” he asked, his voice a bit snippy.

  “Seamus, it’s David,” David’s voice was fast and filled with fear. “Meet me at the hospital, please. It’s Kaylee.”

  His eyes snapped open as he flung himself out of bed. “What happened? Is she okay?” He shot back quickly as he yanked clothing off the bedroom table.

  “She went out last night with someone she met on campus. She was supposed to be back hours ago, but I just got a call from the hospital. She’s in emergency surgery. They
won’t tell me anything else yet. Please hurry,” David said, his voice catching as the call ended.

  Seamus cussed loudly as he tugged on pants and shirt. Snatching his keys and gun from the bedroom table, he ran for the door, slipping his shoes on as he went. He dimly noted that he didn’t have socks on as he jumped into his car and tore ass out of his driveway, skidding onto the street and accelerating as he went. He was only five miles from the hospital in the rural town he lived in, and at three in the morning the few cops on patrol were not likely to be between him and the hospital. Luckily.

  His foot pressed down on the accelerator, easily hitting triple digits on the flat open road. He braked hard to make the two turns he had to make, glad that he didn’t spot another car on the way. He skidded into a spot in the emergency room parking area and ran into the building. He found David in the surgery waiting area, pacing the room.

  “What’s happening?” Seamus said quickly as he grabbed his friend by the shoulder.

  David spun to him, his eyes red and dripping, “All they’ve said is major damage to her spine and internal bleeding. I’m waiting for the doctor to see me after the surgery.”

  Seamus took a deep breath, trying to calm his own fears as he squeezed David’s shoulder. “It will be okay. The doc will come out tell us she’s okay, then we’ll see her.”

  David took a shuddering breath, nodding his head, “Yeah, of course. Everything will be fine.”

  Knowing his friend might be dealing with mild shock, Seamus stepped out to the snack area to grab two cups of coffee. He was glad he was off today, but tomorrow would be work again. Taking the two cups, he headed back to his friend.

  “What do we know about the circumstances?” Seamus asked as he shoved his anger and fear aside, putting on his professional face.

  “She got asked out by some kid a week ago, for a date. She was supposed to see the new Star Wars movie, get some dinner then be back around eleven last night. She didn’t come home. I was worried, but thought maybe it ran late and they’d stopped for coffee and talk. Then I got a call from a deputy, I don’t recall the name. He told me that Kaylee was here and about to go in for surgery. I got here then called you.” David’s hands shook as he spoke, “Why? Why her? What happened?”

  Seamus pulled his phone out as he stepped into the hall. He called the on-duty sergeant for patrol, “Fred, it’s Seamus. What can you tell me off the record about Kaylee McMullen ending up in the hospital?”

  “Seamus? How did you even hear about that? Look, it’s a mess okay? The man who attacked her is in custody. He’s looking at a long list of charges, not least of which is attempted murder, or murder if she doesn’t make it. The detectives are going to be taking over here in a few minutes. I’m just making it to the crime scene now.”

  “Alright, thanks. I’ll see you in a few days to get the whole story.” After exchanging goodbyes Seamus hung up and headed back into the waiting area.

  David seemed to have gotten a hold of himself some, “What did you find out?”

  Seamus took a long sip of coffee before replying, “She was attacked. The big charge the guy will face is going to be attempted murder. Fred told me there are others but the detectives will be stepping into the investigative role.”

  David’s hand crushed the cup he was holding sending coffee over his hand, that he ignored. “That piece of shit attacked my little girl?” His voice was hot with venom as he spat the words.

  Slapping his hand onto his friend’s shoulder, Seamus shook his head, “Just wait until we get the full picture. We don’t know it was the guy she went out with, but no matter who it was they will pay for it. My word on that.”

  David seemed to collapse in on himself, “Okay, but I want justice. I won’t settle for anything less.”

  They fell silent as they waited for news. Almost sixteen hours later the surgeon came to find David, his face grim. “Mr. McMullen? I’m Doctor White. I was the surgeon for your daughter.”

  ~ ~ ~

  Alburet jerked awake covered in sweat, his breathing ragged as he tried to recall where he was. Daylight was just beginning to brighten the sky through the window. Shuddering, he got out of bed, moving to the basin and pitcher of water. He poured some water into the basin with a shaky hand and splashed some onto his face. Taking deep breaths, he finally calmed down his racing heart. “It’s in the past now. She’s recovering with David by her side to help her,” he said to himself before he stepped away from the water.

  He went to the table, taking a seat as he tried to push the memory away. “Supposed to meet with Ioaniss at the museum this morning, while Stacia is with her mom doing bridal things.” Shaking his head, he got back up to wash and get dressed. A knock sounded at the door just as he was finishing. Brow furrowed, he opened it to find Deidre there with a tray of food.

  “Mornin,’ Alburet. Since Stacia nay be here it was decided tha’ I would bring ya the breakfast today,” Deidre gave him a warm smile.

  Alburet stepped aside for her, “I wasn’t expecting this, thank you.” He closed the door behind her and followed her to the table where she began to set out the different items.

  “We hope ya did nay mind us tryin’ to get a rise out of Stacia the other day. None of us really wants to do anythin’ with ya, but she was getting’ a bit insufferable always yammerin’ on about ya. Alburet this and Alburet tha’, ugh, it was enough to make even us want to slap her.” Deidre kept up a bright chatter as she finished setting the table. “Now then, here ya be, breakfast for ya. Curious as to wha’ ya plans be for today.”

  Alburet blinked as he realized she had asked him a question. “My plans? I am to meet up with Sir Jones at the Royal Museum for a tour of the place. Other than that, nothing planned. Really at a loss without Stacia around. Funny how she seemed to become such a key point to my life in such a short time.”

  Deidre giggled, “Aye, she has always dominated a room when she be about. We hope ya will be takin’ good care of her in the comin' years.”

  “Worried for your sister? That is sweet of you, but you shouldn’t worry. At this point I think it would take an act of the gods to separate us.”

  “Aye, tha’ be good to hear. Iffin there be nothin’ else, I be leavin’ ya to ya meal,” Deidre said as she stepped to the door.

  “No this is fine, thank you. Also, thank you for clearing up that you all glomming onto me the other day was an act. I was really concerned for a time about that. Stacia seemed a bit worried as well.”

  “Good, it worked. We felt the need to make her worry. Ya be safe from us, though. I be hopin’ to catch me a Paladin of the Dark Lord. Erin be wantin’ a nobleman and Marian is more into lasses than lads. Me thinks she liked the looks of the assassin ya’ve dallied with before. Our youngest sis still thinks boys are dumb, bless her heart.” Chuckling, Deidre opened the door, “Good day to ya.” With that she was gone.

  Shaking his head at how talkative she was compared to Stacia, Alburet turned his attention to the food. Eggs and bacon like Stacia normally brought him. A cup of coffee with the right amount of cream already added. “I guess Stacia set this up for me. I should thank her for that when she gets back,” he murmured before digging into the food.

  Chapter Eleven

  Alburet nodded to Erin, who was behind the bar as he headed out, getting a friendly smile in return. Finding a carriage for hire, he paid the driver a gold to take him to the Royal Museum. When they got there, he got out, thanking the driver before pausing to take in the outside of the building. The building took up an entire block, four Dead Man Inns could easily have fit inside of it. The front of the building had three low, wide steps along the front and a small over hang that was held up by fluted columns.

  He climbed the stairs to the front door, finding Berk standing out front. “Morning, Berk,” Alburet greeted the assistant of Ioaniss. “Is Sir Jones waiting for me inside?”

  “Yes, he is. Please, follow me,” Berk said with a slight bow of his head before leading them into the build
ing.

  The interior was well made, but not gaudy. No marble flooring or gold chandeliers, but good solid stone work all around. A number of rather plain chandeliers hung from the vaulted ceiling. A large number of small displays behind glass cases were laid out in rows, down which a few people were walking. Berk led them towards the back past without pausing, to a single door marked Personnel. Berk didn’t pause as he went through the door with Alburet trailing him, down a hall past a few other doors with name plaques on them before reaching one with a gold plaque attached to it. Berk knocked once, waiting for the reply before opening it and ushering Alburet in.

  Ioaniss sat in a rather comfortable looking chair before a massive oak desk. Across from him sat a middle aged non-descript man who seemed to have a vaguely lost expression on his face. Ioaniss stood up when Alburet entered, a friendly smile on his face, “Good morn, Alburet. I hope the day is going well for you. Let me introduce you to my good friend, Marcus Elliott, the curator of the museum.”