Dangerous Territory

by Lindsay Schopfer

  “Keltin! We were so worried. Are you all right?”

  “He’s cut in several places,” said Elaine. “We need to stop the bleeding. And he’s not able to walk right now. Is Kuff...”

  “He’s alive. If we can get him to a town, we may be able to save him.”

  Keltin shook his head. “There’s no telling how far we still have to go before we’re out of this hexed forest.”

  Elaine smiled through her tears.

  “But Keltin, we’re already there! When the horses bolted, they took us right to the perimeter fence. It’s only a few minutes’ walk away.”

  “Then help me up. We’ll get to the other side of the fence and then treat our wounds.”

  “Just as soon as I get these bound,” said Elaine, using the tatters of Keltin’s jacket to bind his wounds.

  Wendi ran off and returned a short time later driving the wagonette. Elaine and Ross had finished binding Keltin and Kuff’s injuries by that time, and together with Wendi and Mrs. Destov they managed to get them both into the wagonette on the two bench seats above Harper. As soon as they were settled, Ross started up the exhausted horses as the rest of the company fell in step beside the carriage.

  Keltin looked down from his perch to see Elaine dabbing at her eyes with her sleeve as her brother Col walked alongside her.

  “Can I show him now?” he said in a soft voice.

  Elaine wiped at her eyes and smiled.

  “Yes, Col. Go ahead.”

  Col took her place next to the wagonette and called up to Keltin.

  “Mr. Moore, I’m glad that you’re all right. I wanted to show you something.”

  Col held out Keltin’s hunting knife. In the light of the carriage’s lanterns it was easy to see the red stain on the blade.

  “I used this on a beast, Mr. Moore. One of them was climbing up the side of the wagonette, and I slashed it with your knife. Mother says that I must have killed it all on my own, but I think Elaine was the one who did. But I did help.”

  Keltin gritted his teeth as the wagonette jostled around and managed a gamely smile.

  “Good work,” he said. “But remember, you need to keep your weapon clean. Remember, you never know when a weapon, any weapon, may save your life.”

  “I’ll remember,” said Col. “I promise.”

  Chapter 22 – In Recovery

  Keltin tried in vain to find a comfortable position in his hotel room bed. It seemed as if no combination or configuration of pillows and blankets could compensate for the maddening need to remain bedridden. It all seemed so unnecessary. After all, the town doctor had said that he had only sprained his ankle, and the bite and claw wounds he’d suffered had been relatively minor with little signs of infection. Still, he’d been confined to bed in the local hotel until the next train bound for Carvalen made it to their secluded town in the north of Krendaria.

  At least he had company. Harper lay in a nearby bed, propped up by pillows so that he could more easily write in the notebook on his knees. Keltin took the opportunity to examine his friend. He’d come through a little more roughly than Keltin had, but would survive in fairly good health, except for his eye. Harper would wear a patch for the rest of his life, news that he had born stoically since receiving it, only saying that it would mean his days of undercover journalism had likely come to an end.

  Harper looked up to see Keltin watching him. He gave a wan smile and lifted his notebook.

  “At least this gives me a chance to get a head-start on my next piece,” he said.

  “I bet I can guess what it will be about.”

  “Maybe. I don’t share my work before it’s done, though I predict that you’ll probably say that I exaggerated most of it.”

  “I don’t doubt it. Just be sure to mention your part in all of this. We couldn’t have made it without you.”

  “That’s kind of you to say, but I know that you all sacrificed a great deal to see that I made it back in one piece. Mostly. I want you to know something. When we get back to Collinsworth, if you ever need anything from me, you just let me know. I may never make much of a beast hunter, but I can find all sorts of ways to make myself useful. If nothing else, I can give you ‘first look’ at any reports of beast attacks that come to the desks of the Gazette.”

  “I appreciate that. And you know that you can rely on me if you need anything.”

  “I know Keltin. Trust me, I know.”

  There was a soft knock on the door.

  “Come in.”

  Ross stepped inside and closed the door behind him.

  “Well, how are you two feeling? Well enough to travel?”

  “We should be,” said Keltin. “Did you get the tickets?”

  “I did. Krendaria North Line, it should take you all to Carvalen. You can get another train from there to Collinsworth.”

  “What sort of price did you manage for the horses and wagonette?” asked Harper.

  “Fair, I’d say. Neither were in the best shape after that plaguing forest. But it was more than enough to cover the train tickets, and I gave the rest to Mrs. Destov.” He turned to Keltin. “By the way, I had a fellow from the Brothers come to me asking whether we had any gifts from Malpin for him.”

  “Was everything in good condition for him?” asked Keltin.

  “He seemed satisfied with it, and said how grateful he was.”

  “I’m glad. Despite what happened in Carris, the Brothers did do a great deal for us and the Destovs. It was only right that we try to repay them a little.”

  “How’s Kuff doing?” asked Harper.

  Ross sighed and shook his head.

  “He’ll live, but he’ll never hunt again. One of his legs was too bad to keep. He’ll have to learn to walk with three now.”

  “He fought those sleevaks to protect me,” said Keltin. “I’m so sorry, Ross.”

  “He’s alive because of you. That’s what important.”

  Harper cleared his throat uncomfortably. “Then you’re not going to... well...”

  “No. Kuff has the strength of his mother in him, I’ll not waste that bloodline on an early injury. I’ll take him home with me. He’ll make a fine stud.”

  “I’m glad to hear it, though I’ll miss that big lout. I won’t know what to do with all of my meals just to myself from now on.”

  “Well,” said Ross, “I suppose this is as good a time as any to say my farewells.”

  “You’re not going to see us off to the train station?”

  “I don’t like long goodbyes.” He extended a hand to the newspaperman. “I was glad to know you, Harper. Safe travels back to Collinsworth.” They shook hands and Ross came to Keltin’s bedside. “It was good to hunt with you again, Mr. Moore. Good luck with your business.”

  “Thank you, Ross. If you ever need work, come look me up.”

  “I appreciate that, but I’m a Krendarian man, and I won’t leave my country just because it’s in poor straits. Maybe I’ll petition the government to start another company of tamarrin hound trainers. I think Captain Tallow would approve of that.”

  “I’m sure he would, and you’d make a fine successor to him. Take care.”

  “You too. I think the ladies were hoping to visit you sometime this afternoon. Would you like me to let them know that you’re able to see them now?”

  “Of course. Thank you again, Ross.”

  The tamarrin hound trainer left them. Soon, another knock sounded from the door.

  “Come in.”

  Keltin tried to sit up as Wendi, Elaine, and her mother entered the room. Mrs. Destov quickly raised her hand.

  “Please don’t bother on our account, Mr. Moore,” she said. “By all means, stay comfortable.”

  Elaine immediately went to Keltin’s side.

  “How are you feeling?” she asked.

  “Tired of being in bed, but otherwise I’m fine.”

  Keltin gave her a smile that he hoped showed none of his inner uncertainty. They hadn’t had a chance to say
anything to each other of their shared kiss in Pike Forest, and Keltin had begun to wonder if they ever would. Forcing his mind from Elaine for the moment, he turned his attention to Mrs. Destov.

  “Ross told us that everything has been taken care of for the trip.”

  “Yes indeed, as long as you are sure that you’re able to travel.”

  “I can travel. I’m very ready to go home.”

  “I’m glad. It’s been too long since the children have seen their father.” Her face fell as her eyes drifted away from him. “Although, it will be difficult starting all over again. We were able to bring so little with us, and we know no one where we are going.”

  “Don’t worry, Mother,” said Elaine. “We’ll make a new home for ourselves.”

  Mrs. Destov gave a brave smile.

  “Of course. And we will be among good friends. Mr. Moore, Mr. Harper, and of course our dear Wendi.”

  Keltin blinked, turning to the young woman. “What’s this? You’re not staying with Ross?”

  Wendi shook her head and gave a shy smile. “Actually, Mrs. Destov has offered to take me with them and hire me on to do the cooking once they’re established somewhere.”

  “I’m surprised Ross didn’t mention that.”

  “I think that he’s trying to pretend that it doesn’t bother him,” she said with a sad expression. “I feel bad for him.”

  “He has his own life, dear,” said Mrs. Destov. “I know he’s come to see you as the daughter he never had, but he knows that it’s only proper that you should find your own way in life. I know that I will dearly love to have you nearby.”

  “Well, I’m glad for you, Wendi,” said Harper. “It sounds like all has ended very happily for everyone involved, all things considered.”

  “I agree. But, we must allow you both to have your rest. Come along, Wendi, Elaine, there’s still packing to be done before we catch our train this evening.”

  Elaine gave Keltin a parting smile and left along with Wendi and her mother. Harper set aside his notebook and almost immediately began to softly snore. Keltin laid back on his pillow. He wasn’t sure he’d be able to sleep through the newspaperman’s snoring, but for once, he didn’t mind not being able to sleep. Just knowing everyone was safe for the moment was enough, and he let himself relax, watching the sunlight through the window and waiting for evening to fall.

  Epilogue – Golden Moments

  “You know something, Keltin? When you clean up a bit, you’re not half-bad looking.”

  Keltin grimaced into the mirror.

  “I hope you’re right, because I feel like a fop.”

  “Oh no,” said Jaylocke with a grin from where he lounged on the bed. “You’re not wearing nearly enough face powder to be a fop.”

  “Thank you.”

  Keltin fidgeted with his cravat. He was fairly certain that he was wearing his outfit correctly, but it still looked wrong on him. He tugged self-consciously at his high collar as Bor’ve’tai appeared in the mirror behind him.

  “How are you feeling, Keltin?”

  “I’ll be all right as long as I can keep from adjusting this thing during the ceremony.”

  “Then you feel ready to give away your sister?”

  Keltin clenched his jaw. “I don’t like hearing it said quite that way.”

  “Forgive me. I only meant to ask how it felt to know that she will soon be getting married. Of course, she’ll always be your sister.”

  “I know. I suppose I’m all right. Isaac did ask my permission, and I gave it. I think he’ll make her happy. Don’t you?”

  The Loopi nodded. “When I look in their eyes, I see a deep love between them. For my part, I think Isaac will take good care of Mary.”

  “He’d better,” said Jaylocke. “I certainly wouldn’t want to see what was left of the fellow if Keltin ever heard of him mistreating his sister.”

  “Don’t be morbid, Jaylocke. This is a happy day.”

  “I am happy. Can’t you tell?”

  “To me, you look like you always do.”

  “Well there you are.” Jaylocke frowned slightly as he turned to Keltin. “I am sorry that you weren’t able to see your mother. It’s a shame that she wasn’t feeling well enough to stay for the wedding and had to go back to Harringtown.”

  Keltin nodded without answering. He’d spoken to Mary about their mother and her convenient departure before being forced to see her estranged son. Keltin had told Mary that as much as it would hurt him, he was willing to avoid the wedding if it meant that Mary could have her mother there, but she would have none of it. She wanted him to present her at the wedding in their father’s place. If their mother couldn’t put aside her stubborn pride, then she would only hurt herself. Keltin tried to remind himself of that, but the ache was still there. Looking up, he saw Bor’ve’tai watching him with the same deep, penetrating eyes he always seemed to have whenever Keltin was feeling troubled. The Loopi placed a large hand on Keltin’s shoulder, and they shared a warm smile.

  A knock came from the door. Jaylocke jumped up from the bed and answered it to reveal one of the Whitts’ maidservants.

  “Mr. Moore?”

  Keltin left his cravat alone and turned from the mirror.

  “Yes? Is it time?”

  “Not yet, sir. But the Destov family wish to see you briefly before the ceremony begins, if you are able.”

  “Of course. Where are they?”

  “They’re gathered together in the library. Shall I escort you?”

  “Yes please. I’m still not very good at finding my way around the house.” Keltin turned to his friends. “Will you two be all right?”

  “Don’t worry about us,” said Bor’ve’tai. “We’ll see you at the ceremony.”

  Keltin nodded and followed the maid out of the room and downstairs. The Whitts had made a fantastic effort to evoke a spring-time wedding despite the gently falling snow outside. Silken flowers and green holy boughs festooned the bannisters and side tables as expensive wall drapings bathed the great house in warm shades of pale rose and lavender. Keltin passed by the ballroom and glanced inside at the location for the ceremony itself. A staging area had been set up at one end where Father Rafferty sat serenely waiting to act as the officiator. Guests and family members had already begun to gather in the assembled chairs, and Keltin waved to a few of his family before turning and following the maid to the library.

  Stepping inside, he found Mr. and Mrs. Destov along with their children. All of them were dressed for the wedding, but there was one of them that captured Keltin’s entire attention. When Keltin had first seen Elaine, she’d already been trapped for weeks in a farmhouse surrounded by beasts . Later, when he’d found her at the Harstev farm, she’d been living on the run for days, after which they had spent most of their time together roughing it across the countryside. But now he saw her in the resplendent glory of a young woman of elegance and refinement. Her dark hair was up in a cascade of curls, and her gown shimmered in shades of gold and white, showing off her elegant shoulders and sculpted arms. When she saw him she smiled, and he felt himself go light-headed. He barely heard or saw Mr. Destov approach him and shake his hand enthusiastically.

  “It’s good to see you as always, Mr. Moore,” he said. “Congratulations on this blessed day. You must be very proud.”

  Keltin struggled to find his voice, his eyes still beholding nothing but Elaine.

  “Thank you,” he murmured. “I’m very happy for Mary.”

  “And how handsome you look,” said Mrs. Destov. “Truly, you’d look a catch for any of the young girls we knew back home. Don’t you think so, Elaine?”

  Elaine’s cheeks reddened slightly as her smile deepened.

  “I do, mother. I truly do.”

  Mr. and Mrs. Destov chattered away pleasantly about the upcoming ceremony, seemingly oblivious to Keltin and Elaine’s silent staring. Or, perhaps, they noticed it and didn’t mind. Keltin wasn’t sure which, and frankly couldn’t be bothered to f
igure it out at the moment. He was torn back to reality by young Derrick tugging on his mother’s arm.

  “Mother, can we give it to him now?”

  Mrs. Destov smiled. “Of course, but I think Elaine would like to give it to him.”

  “But I want to give it to him.”

  “Hush dear.”

  Elaine turned and picked up a package from a nearby table. She floated to Keltin and handed it to him.

  “This is from all of us,” she said.

  Keltin opened the box. Inside, he saw a flash of rich brown. Reaching in, he pulled out a long, magnificent leather duster coat. Running his hand over the leather, he could feel that while it was glorious to look at, the hide had been specially treated to be uncommonly sturdy and resistant to damage. The coat reached below his knees, and even had a detachable inner lining for colder weather. Elaine’s eyes glowed as she watch him examining it.

  “We made sure to find one with plenty of deep pockets,” she said. “It should also repel snow and rain, as well as being tougher than regular leather. I do hope the fit is right.”

  “Try it on!” said Derrick.

  “It doesn’t go with his clothes,” said Col.

  “He can still try it on.”

  Keltin turned the jacket around and slid it over his arms. The fit was perfect. He adjusted the sleeves and turned to the Destov family. They smiled at him. He felt his throat tighten.

  “Thank you,” he said. “It’s the finest piece of clothing I’ve ever owned.”

  “It’s only a token of how we all feel,” said Mr. Destov. “If not for you, our family would have remained separated, perhaps forever. If you ever need anything from us, you need only ask.”

  “And we expect you to come and visit us as often as you can,” put in Mrs. Destov. “We’ll be finding a home in Collinsworth so that Mr. Destov can see to Mr. Whitt’s investments from there. That’s where your company is, isn’t it Mr. Moore? I insist that you come to our home as often as you can once we all return there.”

  “It would be my greatest pleasure.”