“Relax, many of them understand for they are just as wary as the people inhabiting this city. They wish for coexistence, but will not force themselves upon the people. They distrust us more than we do to them. Each species has one thing in common, trust must be earned through action. They will extend their paw or talon in friendship, but trust will be granted in time.” Alex stated calmly to quell the fear rising in the queen and her people. Only those who trusted Alex completely didn’t worry about the rapidly approaching fiends. “Because of my ability to speak freely with all creatures I can understand them like few others. This will be common knowledge in time so I’m able to tell you in this situation with so many witnesses.
“As a Master Furion, I now have the right to rule over the fiends and they accepted me, mainly because of my willingness to learn about their unique societies. They are more like us than you’ll ever understand or freely admit. They feel pain, compassion, rage, loss, mistrust, loyalty and many other emotions humans ignorantly believe to belong to humanity. Coming here and joining the fight will serve two purposes, we hope. First they wish to rid Runkamon and secondly they wish to live alongside us without animosity.
“To further the relationship they wish to create with you, I, along with my grandfather Gerieg and the leaders of the fiends that have come, had to discuss the best way to build relations while also maintaining order amongst the races, both human and fiend alike. To that end the fiends will create one on one relationships. Like me and my partners, Shade and Ava, the people will act like a substitute Furion with a partner.”
Right on cue the flight of Fury’s brought them to the wall. Like the most regimented and elite warriors under the command of a great leader, the Fury all swooped in and landed upon the stone landing and stood proud. Most were lords the size of short men and after tucking their wings to their side they remained like motionless sentinels. If it weren’t for the continuous movement of their eyes one wouldn’t even believe how quickly they stopped after moving so swiftly.
Just like in practice, Ava’s father landed on the ledge closest to Alex.
The young master then made a gesture to the large male Fury. “Allahandra, after careful consideration and debate on your unique personality and mindset I would like to introduce you to Breaker. He is Ava’s father and the leader of this contingent of Fury.” Alex would tell her later in confidence that usually an elder female would lead, but all five decided to remain together and stay with Gerieg. “You pride yourself on having all the pertinent information before anyone else even has time to consider what they have. Breaker himself is like this and the Fury will be invaluable as scouts. Upon the winds none can stop them and their sight alone will give early warning to many situations. Breaker will become your personal guard and is in hopes you will become lifelong friends in time. He, out of any other fiend, can stop any enemy that comes to do you harm. With but a small breath he can save you much pain.”
Then Allahandra watched and listened as Alex began making high pitched squeaks and clicking sounds. Breaker listened and hopped down to look Allahandra in the eye. Then the enormous Fury pulled its left wing and moved it over his breast, like one moved their arm across their chest, and then he bowed his head for a moment before returning to his tall and rigid stature. Then similar vocal pitches and clicking of his beak explained that the fiend spoke to her, but used Alex as the interpreter. “Breaker says; ‘It is an honor to finally meet you, your Highness. I have waited many seasons to finally meet you and my expectations paled in comparison to the creature standing before me. You are an impressive huntress and it will serve you well in our endeavor. I humbly ask that you allow me to serve as a loyal protector to you and my kind.’”
Such words were off settling, but it was the same when she first met Shade, like she did once before she hid her warring feelings behind a pleasant smile. In time she would be more forthcoming. Before she addressed Breaker she asked Alex a straightforward answer. “If he is to be my guard, will I be allowed to order him? For that matter, if you are gone how will I effectively communicate with him?”
He was grateful she didn’t outright dismiss the offering to work alongside fiends in general. Everyone knew she couldn’t pass up an opportunity when her city and people had such a threat coming. “He is a sentient being like any human. He will abide your wishes, but will not easily put your life in jeopardy nor will he see you harmed. He is not a slave and will not be treated as such. He will never harm you intentionally, but should you make him do something against his will, he will send for a replacement. Ultimately you will work as one unit, so aye to your question for the most part, but keep in mind as a real Furion, he along with all other fiends will follow my orders above all others.”
Hearing all this and the calm confidence of the young man Rakkian stepped closer and gave a cold, threatening look that matched his tone. “You make it sound as if Allahandra serves under you. If they follow your orders, what will stop you from telling them to go on a rampage?”
“That was not my intention.” Alex said calmly showing he held his emotions together more closely than he did before leaving. “I think of Allahandra like a wise older sister. When I was in trouble she helped me and when she was in danger I returned the sentiment. She has always been nothing but kind and I wish to return the favor.” Then he looked directly at the casual standing queen. “Allahandra, there is much I have learned in our time apart. I know this is a lot to take in all at once, but I know you are capable of handling it. I will impart all I have learned so that you will come to fully understand and comprehend what is being offered. I swear to you that this army is benevolent to you, us and Freelan.”
“I have never doubted your intentions, nor will I start.” She stated and then said “I would like to understand, and as an equal and rightful member of a neighboring royal family I understand you won’t and don’t believe your status is higher than my own, but there is still much to be considered. Also you haven’t answered my other question?”
Thinking quickly Alex glanced at his friend and knew just what to do. “Earlier Marlin had a stone tablet and charcoal, which he used to communicate to Clift.” Then he raised his arms to gesture to the many fiends. “Each one of them have been taught how to read and write exactly like Shade. The Orggian elders were usually the ones to teach the young of all fiends how to write nearly the same way as you’ve been teaching children how to become literate in school. The same method Marlin uses will be the ideal solution.”
As Allahandra began considering this she approached Breaker. He remained still, just as a soldier would getting inspected. “I would be delighted to work alongside such a noble creature of the sky.”
With a side look, Breaker listened to Alex’s exact translation and extended his right wing. The gesture wasn’t lost as Allahandra shook it.
As Rakkian spoke, Allahandra turned around and Breaker’s talons tapped the stone beneath him as he stepped to her side. Being queen she was used to such protective movements for her personal guards did much the same. Rakkian asked “Allahandra, what must I say to my men. The fiends are coming fast and will look like a threat from my guards I’ve stationed at the gate.”
The look in Alex’s eyes gave her even more worry. She asked “Alex, what will the fiends do if attacked.”
His grey eyes locked her in place as he seriously warned “It would be suicide if any even thought to attack. They are greater predators than anyone in this city and if they felt threatened, they will eliminate the threat. It would be in everyone’s best interest if they didn’t see fiends as enemies.”
Enough was said that Rakkian shouted orders even without the queen’s expressed permission. He knew her well enough that she didn’t like senseless death or violence. As the head general he ruled and kept order and only her orders exceeded his own, but at this time he didn’t have time to wait for the Shadow Fangs were almost to the gate. “Tell all to stand down! Spread the word, if anyone so much’s scratches a fiend and lives will be hu
ng just like they would if they killed their fellow man! I will hang them personally! Allow safe entry to these fiends and under no circumstances should they be barred from entry! Tell all they are here to help! When I get further information I will give new and clearer orders! GET TO IT!!!” Just about every member of his militia ran down the stairs or along the wall to spread the word. Knowing the city as he does, word will spread completely by the afternoon. He only hoped he wouldn’t need to hang anyone should they succeed in the killing.
Shade returned as the last man descended the stone stairs. He announced “My packs have arrived and are waiting to meet everyone. Clift has aided me and calmed the horses and they understand that they have nothing to fear. I’ve told them to wait but the humans are afraid of what to do next.”
Alex translated and Allahandra said she’d quell her people’s fears. She was still unused to the thought of so many fiends coming here, but she remained calm for her people. She took her general’s hand and led the way down the steps. Breaker told his kind to scout the area to understand their new home and find strategic places to roost for the night. He flew over Allahandra, not allowing her out of his sight for a moment. His task began the moment she shook his wing.
As they made their way down Rakkian spoke over his shoulder. “Alex, you say that the fiends want to partner with humans. What good will that do?”
“You, as well as most others, know very little of me and my forefathers. Even I couldn’t believe just how far back my Furion lineage dates back. What you need to understand above all else is not our physical aspects or that we can speak to all manner of creatures. Our most subtle and greatest advantage is the ability to make bonds. I learned that the connection with Shade is more than being foster siblings, but that is the easiest way to describe it. I will do anything it takes to keep him alive and he does the same for me. Though we are separate entities we are almost as one spirit. Ava is the same way. If either of us is hurt the other will guard to the last breath to ensure our survival.”
The general didn’t miss the context hidden behind those words. He simply had to ask “And should you be killed, what would happen then?”
For the first time the general felt the very essence of fear as Alex’s eyes seem to darken in a grey storm of rage. If it weren’t for Allahandra as the anchor he would have and tumbled violently down the incline. Alex stopped descending as his Dominance was slightly triggered. There weren’t many around except those that could keep a secret to their dying breath, but they could all feel an intangible pressure hold all in place. They were out of hearing range of the crowd so Alex smoothed his voice, but kept his words sharper than his sword. “You ask a question out of ignorance and for that I cannot fault you or your simple curiosity. I will tell you this only because I trust not a word of this will pass your lips till the day you die.
“Should either Shade or Ava die I will forever hold a hollow place in my heart. But should I die of misfortune or murder, both Shade and Ava wouldn’t quit until they had the most gruesome vengeance you wouldn’t even begin to comprehend. After they finish the task they will most likely die from starvation just so they can find me on the other side for our bond goes beyond death and lasts for all time. As I have been told it was rare for a partner to live well beyond that of their Furion, but they were never as they once were.
“And to make one final point, as my partners both Shade and Ava will share in the longevity that we humans have over most creatures. This means that they have many, many more years to look forward to.”
As Alex’s Dominance eased Allahandra spoke to the one person who shared her love. “Rakkian, I do believe he is telling the truth. You weren’t there when he rescued me from Gyro at much cost to himself. I will never forget the look Shade made after seeing how badly Alex was injured. It went well beyond the fear of death or shock. It was obvious even back then what would have happened to Shade if Alex hadn’t recovered.” As the pressure was fully removed she said “Alex, you have our word this secret will go no further.”
Marlin then acted “What secret would that be?”
That simple joke made them snicker.
As they reached the ground level they saw that the Shadow Fangs, riding Orggian and Beran had arrived, but remained on the large and sturdy drawbridge. Many were curious to see and meet humans for the first time or cast wary glances, but none showed even the first ounce of hostility. Alex, Shade, Ava, Breaker and Allahandra stood in an open area in the road between the fiends and her people, as she informed them of the situation with a simple, but eloquent speech. She promised them they didn’t come here to harm and asked that none harm them for their own safety. Some were opposed to the idea of allowing so many dangerous creatures inside the wall for fear of themselves and children. She then pointed out and asked if anyone doubted Shade’s loyalty for not one person had been harmed by him. Then logic seeped into the crowd as she reminded them of who they faced. There were less objections and they trusted the queen wholly for she never steered them wrong before. Allahandra hoped this wasn’t a mistake.
As the Grizon and Pikro eventually found their way to the city Allahandra finished reassuring her people.
When the horde had gathered fully Alex spotted the very people he wished were here. Even an old smiling face waited in the crowd. The citizens listened as Alex asked “Allahandra, with your permission I would like to select certain people to partner with the fiend leaders.” She inclined her head. He pointed and said “General Rakkian, General Takka, Commander Yort, Quinn and you too Niranene, will you please join me.”
They were hesitant at first, but when the head healer approached, so too did all that were called upon. When they were close enough Alex turned, faced the fiends and roared for all to hear. He called Beta, Krum, Ginger, Teem and the Grizon leader. Once all were gathered, with many eyes watching what would happen next Alex began “Niranene, I would like to introduce you to Krum. He and his brethren wish to work with you and your healers. Beyond his natural healing properties they all know about medicinal herbs and other healing methods. He asked to partner with a skilled healer and you are the best. He also said that if danger comes he wishes to watch your back on the condition you watch his.”
Niranene looked upon a living and elusive Orggian and a grin spread across her face. Now that her greatest worry was put to rest as Alex granted to bind her to Marlin, she then knelt to the ground and opened her case of items. She found her oval, palm-sized item and said “I accept on behalf of my staff to work with you Krum. If I might make a request, may I study you and use my item to see if you and all the fiends are in prime and healthy condition.”
Then they listened as Alex whooped and made odd sounds when speaking to the simian. Krum then approached her on his knuckles while speaking to Alex. “Krum says he would be delighted to further your knowledge and is also permitting you to make sure he and all others are well. I’ve told him how your item works by seeing the inside of the recipient without invasive means and he knows that there is no danger.” To prove the truth of these words Krum came even closer and sat down in front of her and puffed out his hairy chest. Niranene then touched it and found his organs in perfect order and not a single parasite resided internally. As she finished and drew away Krum extended his long arm and held his palm facing up. It wasn’t difficult to understand the gesture. Niranene handed over her item and watched as Krum looked carefully at it, smelled, licked and even gently bit the item. Then he reached forward and did as she did before by placing the item upon her abdomen and closed his eyes. He opened them soon enough and Alex translated what was said as Krum returned her item. “He said he wanted to see if the rumor was true and it was. He couldn’t use your item for it works solely for you.”
As Niranene and Krum sat silently together Alex turned and spotted the familiar face. Takka hadn’t changed a bit and still looked ostentatious. His robe flowed all around him and several gold necklaces glistened in the sunlight. He still remained as carefree as ever and clutch
ed in his right hand was his item, a green metallic-like book capable of reading anything ever written and only he is capable of reading the pages. “It is good to see you again, Takka. You are looking well.”
In contrast to his reserved brother Rakkian, Takka smiled without a care in the world. “As are you. Ever since we parted back in Nicronane I’ve been keeping an eye on you. I must say your deeds are impressive and has given me countless hours of entertainment. I’m glad you came to me to start your journey here. So am I to have a partner as well, ya?” His dark skin crinkled in obvious amusement, but underneath and behind the smile was a calm and calculating mind.
“As a matter-of-fact, Aye. You will partner with the most poisonous fiend, Ginger. She and her kind aren’t as fast, just like most specialists, but they don’t need to be because they are deadly fortresses of needles filled and coated in the deadliest poison. It even took me time to become immune, but for a normal person just a single touch will kill. She doesn’t need to shoot her quills for just a touch with open skin is a death sentence. She and her kind want partners that need the most protection yet cannot fight as well as the warrior class. It would be best to find others like yourself to partner other Pikro with.”
Then Alex spoke with Ginger and introduced her to Takka.
Afterward he called the attention of the next candidate. “Commander Yort, your burly size and straightforward style will be compatible with the Grizon leader and his forces. Find only men who are like you for the Grizon do not associate with weak individuals. Big, strong, rush headfirst into battle, those kinds of people.”
They then met and next was “Quinn, this is Teem, leader and king of the prides. The Beran and Shadow Fang will both work mainly as you would with horses. Only they are larger, faster and can fight off any adversary. They also run faster and have more endurance than any horse in the world. When I entered Alluan’s boarder not one of your patrols spotted us, except for one, but they didn’t see anything before being knocked unconscious by a Fury. Teem knows who he wants and your javelin that shoots electric arcs of lightning fits well with his kind. Remember Beran are both close and midrange fighters, both sexes spit acid over a hundred paces with deadly accuracy, but only males can shoot paralytic needles from their manes.”
Furion's Trials (Book Two of the Items Trilogy) Page 42
