Untamed Gift (Book One of the Items Trilogy)

by H. Lee Morgan, Jr

Chapter 18

  While everyone ran for the full day they eventually settled in for the night under a clear and starry sky. Three small fires sat amongst the riders and The Pack. Though there weren’t any Guards around no one took any flamboyant chances and alert their presence. The Freelan warriors and new members huddled close to the fires so as to block their orange light because it would be a brilliant beacon on this arid and grassy plane. Alex’s pack stayed together and Commander Yort, along with two of his most skilled warriors, sat with them. They did so only to keep a watch over Lily, The Pack all knew but didn’t state the obvious reason aloud. The battalion had brought plenty of food on their travels and all ate well, even Shade burped in satisfaction.

  A few hours after nightfall one of the women approached Yort and she whispered in the commander’s ear. He then whispered back. She put a fist to her heart and walked over to grab a fresh horse. She mounted and headed north, leaving ahead of the entire group to deliver a report, undoubtedly telling of the unorthodox recruits being brought.

  In the morning everyone continued heading in the same direction. They continued running in the same formation all day and only stopped twice, to take a break. Near the late afternoon the plane changed and trees began breaking the open terrain into a sparsely wooded forest.

  That night more Freelan members wanted to know about The Pack and where they came from. And they especially wanted to know more about Shade because he was such a misunderstood creature. He wrote more in that night than in a week with Lily, but he enjoyed it. He fed off the attention and praise others gave him.

  Around noon on the next day the company began slowing to a trot. Sparse trees began thickening into a lush wooded realm, full of life and hunting opportunities. Off in the distance Alex could see why they slowed in their travels. When they crested a hill, above the tree tops, there was an enormous castle city laid out before them all.

  Commander Yort exclaimed. “Welcome to Freelan headquarters. This is the Royal City of Alluan. This will be your new home. Welcome to the family!” Everyone became quiet as they approached the city mainly because of seeing its beauty. Some people sighed at the sight, knowing a new home was within reach.

  The Royal City was four or five times as large as the Nicronane’s Trade City. Alex could easily spot a wall surrounding the entire city, but the walls were made of enormous cut stones. The wall had a light gray look with flecks of black and green moss growing in a seemingly random order. They were undoubtedly siege walls of the greatest defense and to see them from such a distance gave a safe feeling. Above and behind the wall stood five large stone buildings or should be referred to as castles, but the one that looked to be in the middle was by far the largest building ever seen. Around the major buildings was the city and inhabitants. The buildings looked to be made of the same stone that made up the impressive walls. The city was surrounded by farmlands and stables and there were many who were out cultivating the crops. It also allowed the city to see for several leagues around its borders. Several streams bled into the city and also to the farmers for irrigation and drinking. The streams were too straight and perfect to be natural, but were made a very long time ago. They looked to be made around the time the city was first constructed and maintained since. Even from this distance all could see the city walls were surrounded by a moat. The sky above was partly cloudy, but they barely moved so Alex knew that it wouldn’t rain today.

  Then Commander Yort gave everyone directions on how to enter the city.

  There was a stone road two leagues ahead and once they made it there, the traveling positions had changed. Commander Yort took the lead on the road and all of his men followed him in a single line. Clift followed in behind the last horse and Shade took rear point.

  It was a single lined procession that slowly moved along the road. Clift and the other horses’ hooves made the sound of the arrival even more dramatic. Shade didn’t even make a sound as they moved, but his ears were swerving in every direction, taking it all in. His tail kept moving from side to side and his excited eyes took in the new sights. His nose twitched at all of the new smells. Alex could tell he was eager to meet everyone though his brother remained quiet.

  They all knew that they had successfully made it to their destination. Finally.

  Deciding to stretch out his stiff legs, Alex tossed his right leg around and landed on the road. Shade and Alex smiled at each other. Lily just looked at them grinning at each other like idiots, but continued riding.

  Anticipation continued building in each of the people as they moved closer and closer. Some of the farmers stopped working to gawk at the sight of the line, especially the rear. Shade loved the attention. They all had walked another league and a half when the city became easier to see and Alex was wrong. This Royal City actually was four times larger than Trade City to the south.

  Commander Yort passed beneath the gate entrance first, after he crossed the drawbridge. The stone walls were twice as large as any that Alex or the others has seen thus far and he spotted several patrolling guards atop them. The protective walls were at least a hundred feet tall. Even the thickness of the wall was almost surreal. This city was an impenetrable fortress that the walls protected from any and all threats. The gate was made of solid metal and half as thick as the stone wall. Some of the men on the top of the walls began running and pointing down at Shade with fright, but they knew well enough not to attack him with so many bystanders near. Alex bet that it was all because of Shade’s ignorant reputation of being a Shadow Fang too. He was the largest of the procession and in this light he couldn’t be missed by any. His tail raised slightly higher once he looked up at the shouting guards on the wall.

  The closer they moved to the gate, the louder a strange sound became. Alex could hear people screaming congratulations and clapping. They seemed to be cheering for the safe journey home of the warriors as well as for the newcomers. Nothing but acceptance came from the people of Alluan.

  The adoration filled his heart.

  Shade and Alex made their way under the gate and suddenly all noises ceased, once they moved out from under the gate’s shadow. Many people became frightfully stunned as they looked at the hulking predator and the ones who remained cheering for the homecoming stopped, once the others pointed to Shade’s presence. There wasn’t any further cheering or clapping like they previously heard. There was just an uncomfortable silence that hung in the air. Most were stunned, but others were trying and hoping to find a place to escape.

  Suddenly a group of children, who weren’t paying any attention to their surroundings, were chasing each other. A group of five kids were chasing a little boy, all laughing. They ran past the shocked adults as they came down an alley and into the street. The little boy being chased somehow tripped and rolled into the center of the street. He eventually stopped rolling, but halted less than a pace in front of Shade’s stride.

  There were some women who began crying and others who wanted to rescue the child, but were too afraid of moving closer to a grown Shadow Fang larger than the men and far heavier.

  Shade stopped and looked down at the child who tripped. The little boy looked to be four or five years of age and his clothes were dirty from playing all day. He was wearing a spiked helm for an item. He had fallen on his belly and he pushed himself up into a standing position. He stood with his back to Shade as he brushed off his clothes while searching for his friends. He looked up at the stunned and wailing adults, and saw their expressions and worry. The boy didn’t realize they wanted him to run because the shouts were too jumbled. He was confused and nervous as he looked around at everyone, but couldn’t understand. Then he slowly turned around. He first looked down at Shade’s enormous paws and slowly lifted his head until he craned his neck as far back as it could go to reach large golden eyes peering back down. Then his muscles froze after his eyes widened in fright.

  Shade though looked down at the child in curiosity. Shade was already enormous, but the child could be eaten whole if he
chose. Alex smiled as the tension constricted even more as Shade brought his head closer to the boy. There wasn’t any noise except off in the far distance. He brought his nose down to the boy’s face and sniffed, learning his scent. Shade’s whiskers began brushing against the boy’s face, making him cringe away and whimper. Shade grinned and a woman in the crowd fainted from the horrid sight. Shade cracked open his mouth and the little boy saw dangerous teeth first hand.

  The open muzzle was immediately followed by a large, wet tongue.

  Shade licked the child from groin to crown. The boy staggered back from the playful assault and Shade began barking a laugh. His golden eyes were closed tightly and he laughed even more. It would be dangerous to be behind Shade right now because his tail was wagging as a deadly weapon. Then he pranced back and barked playfully.

  The crowd breathe in a sigh of astonished relief.

  “Alex,” he turned back to Shade. “ask the human pup if he would like to ride with Lily.” Shade looked overly energetic, seeming to prance in place.

  Alex walked between Shade and the little boy. The procession had stopped and Commander Yort was watching them intently, but not unkindly. Marlin and Clift were a few paces away, grinning, and some of the crowd moved closer to hear the tall raven haired man speak. He then dropped to sit on his heels while using his staff to maintain balance.

  “My partner wanted me to ask if you’d like a ride. I saw how the other children were chasing you. Would you like to do brag about being the first in the city to ride a Shadow Fang? They will be quite jealous of you.”

  The little boy wiped his cheek as he looked up at the man who spoke in a deep soothing voice. He was a cute little boy with curly brown hair under the item. His little voice reminded Alex of Shade’s when he was just a pup. The pitch was higher than when he would grow into a man. “Really? He wants me to ride him? How do you know?” the boy asked.

  “Would you like to or not?”

  In instant response his little arms reached forward. Alex wrapped his left arm under his bottom while the little arms encircled his neck. He easily stood and walked around to Shade’s side. Lily reached down as Alex handed him up to her. She sat the boy in front of her lap. His short little legs barely stretched around Shade’s back. He looked back at Lily and then down to Shade. Immediately he began laughing and giggling, throwing his little fist in the air in a personal victory.

  One person broke the silence by clapping his hands. Alex couldn’t see who the initial person was in the crowd, but then another started applauding. Soon the gathered throng of people accepted them like they did for the others, if not more.

  Alex nodded toward Commander Yort and he smiled before spurring his steed forward, returning the procession into the city.

  As the convoy continued, Shade and Alex began walking. Soon they watched as people left the crowd to only return with more spectators than before. Soon the entire street was packed tightly with people who wanted to see the unorthodox arrivals. The little boy giggled and waived excitedly at everyone, enjoying himself. More and more children started coming closer to see the Shadow Fang. There were even some gutsy children who moved closer than the adults ever dared, but they steered clear of his tail for their own well being. Shade loved being the center of attention and this was his moment to shine.

  They walked for close to an hour and the people continued applauding and cheering. Many homes and shops inside the city were made of mostly wood, but there were some made of stone; like a small castle for a lord or lady. There weren’t any beggars or homeless unlike at Trade and Central City. Freelan worked together, like a family, rather than forced to do things independently. It helped for everyone to do their part, but retained their independence to do what they wished. They continued walking down the main street and then turned down a road. At the end of this road waited the second largest of the five large buildings they saw outside the gates.

  This building looked to be fourteen stories tall and Alex couldn’t see around the side. All he knew was that it was massive. Many windows lined the building, showing fourteen levels. There was a large wooden double door at the top of a staircase made of stone. The building was like a large cubed castle. Alex guessed that this was going to be their barracks.

  He wasn’t proven wrong.

  The people continued following Shade until they passed the last house and onto a wide space that was covered with the paving stones. Then the people started to quietly leave and the silence was a comfort. Lily handed Alex the boy and he ran off into the crowd, giggling like never before. He waved at Shade one last time before disappearing, Shade winked goodbye. The space before them was cut into a crescent-like courtyard. Off to the left side of the opening was a large stable, housing hundreds of horses, and also a fenced in area for them to roam.

  Each of them stopped while the thirty other riders dismounted and led their steeds over to the stable masters. All of the men walked through the barracks double doors and once the last person entered he shut the door behind himself. Commander Yort then walked out in front of the new arrivals. “We welcome each one of you to Freelan. Follow me inside so we can get you a temporary room. Once you put your things down we will meet back here and head over to the healers to check everyone out. After that, we will head to the dining hall.” He then turned to his right and said “The stable masters will care of the horses so please dismount and hand them over.”

  When Marlin dismounted Alex walked up to Clift to ask “What are you going to do?”

  He looked down at him and then over to the stables, tossing his mane. “I guess I’ll go and meet my new companions. I promise to behave and not cause too much of a panic. Who knows, maybe I might find me a mare.” Alex smiled up at him and the chestnut stallion grinned.

  “I will take him if you don’t mind.”

  Alex turned around to see a large teenage boy. He was sweaty and smelled like he has been dealing with horses all day. He reached up to grab Clift’s mane but he snorted angrily and raised himself up. Clift lifted his head proudly and puffed his chest in defiance. Before something dangerous were to happen Marlin grabbed the boy’s wrist.

  “Listen. This is Clift. He is a stallion who does what he wants. He will follow where you need him to go, but it will be dangerous if you force him to do something against his will. Be sure no one rides him, but me. And if he wants out, don’t stand in his way.” Marlin released his grasp.

  “Aye, Sir.” The boy bowed and took a step away. He was surprised Clift followed after him so easily.

  The rest of The Pack smiled.

  While Clift walked to the stables Alex walked back to Shade. Lily had already dismounted and rearranged the pack on her back. She smiled as he walked closer. “That child was a little cutie. He seemed so happy.” She smiled a little more beautifully. Lily was honest and it scattered his thoughts. She spoke like an actual woman, rather than a hardened warrior. It astonished him.

  “Alex, what are we doing now?”

  He met Shade’s eyes and told him “We are getting our temporary rooms.”

  They all then followed the commander as he led the group to the building.

  Marlin and Alex opened both doors so Shade could fit more easily. After they fell in behind him, Commander Yort began speaking. “This room is where most of us rest and socialize in our downtime. All rooms on the first three floors are for the lower officers. Since you are all new, you will stay on the seventh floor or higher… Alex?” He moved around to find the bearded commander. “Will Shade be able to reside inside?”

  “Aye, he knows to do his business outside.” Alex was glad Shade couldn’t understand the embarrassing notion.

  “Alright then, follow me.” He turned and walked through the room.

  The social room held round tables and chairs. There were many other Freelan members and some jumped out of their seats when they spotted Shade. There were a few of the ones who rode with them and they explained that everything was alright. The ceiling was lit with a whee
l of candles. There was a solid stone floor beneath their feet and it was cool to the touch. They continued walking directly down the middle of the room.

  Once they finally reached the end, several minutes later, a single stone staircase was winding up in a squared pattern against the back wall. Off to the left and right were rows of wooden doors that led to the officers quarters.

  Alex followed after Shade and began walking up the steps after everyone else. Shade easily maneuvered all the way to the seventh floor. The stairs were more than adequate enough to support his size and weight. It was another quiet procession as they studied the new surroundings.

  They stopped as Commander Yort turned to The Pack. “These barracks hold four people to a room. I’m guessing that Alex and his crew will stay together in one room. You may go to the end of the hall after you rounded the corner. You seven will come with me.” He pointed in the opposite direction.

  “We’ll meet you down in the courtyard then.” Lily stated and turned to look at Alex. “I’m hungry. The sooner we drop our things off the sooner we may eat.”

  He smiled approvingly as they turned around and headed down the corridor. They had left the others and turned the corner. More wooden doors lined each side of the hall. Off in the very end of the corridor looked to be a stone cylinder. Alex turned and saw another one behind them. The cylinder came up to waist high and it was covered with a metal lid. He cracked it open and was assaulted by a putrid smell. This was where everyone dumped all their waste and refuse. They walked down to the very end and opened the last door on the left.

  The wooden door had a metal ring to pull the door open and it swung outwards. It was a large door that Shade was easily able to fit through. Inside the room were just the basics. It was a square room with four mattresses along with a circular table in the middle and a candle on top of it. The mattresses were all laying on the floor, one in each corner. The room wasn’t too large, but there was a window allowing some light into the room.

  Lily tossed her bag onto the mattress in the lower right side. Shade claimed the upper left while Alex took the upper right. Marlin was content with the lower left. Once their things were dropped, they quickly headed back down the stairs. Before they made it outside Alex still saw a few people looking at their group warily. Trust still needed to be earned.

  The four waited at the steps for several minutes until Commander Yort and the other seven newcomers met with them again. He said “Follow me so our healers may make sure you are all in top form. I’d like a good meal in me before nightfall.” They then followed in right behind him.

  Shade continued gaining more attention from the people, Alex tried listening to Yort, but couldn’t catch much information with everyone trying to meet Shade. Lily patted his back because she was also trying to pay attention. Shade also enjoyed the architecture and the layout of the city. The roads they took to get here were easy to navigate, but devised in an unfamiliar pattern. As long as you stayed on one of the main roads you’d be sure to find your way through the city, asking for directions would help as well. The group hasn’t even been here for a day and they’d bet by morning they will be the newest attraction and celebrities of the Royal City. They traveled from their new barracks, over to the second smallest of the five large stone buildings.

  This building looked to be built like a cylinder. It had only twelve stories, but it was also the newest to be built. They came upon a courtyard encircling the building. The courtyard was surrounded by dozens of sectioned white cloth. They became discrete patient rooms. In each outside room sat a table that one would use for getting seen. Yort had explained that only the sickest and grievously wounded were admitted inside the building, due to the lack of space compared to the size of the city, but no one was ever turned away.

  Both men and women were walking around, wearing white vests. There were more healers here than Alex has ever thought possible. Commander Yort explained that only healers wore white so they could be easily recognized. He was also proud in saying that healers of all levels worked here, and quite a few didn’t have the item for it. Alex saw many healers tending to their patients. It was good to know they had a good healthcare system. It was more advanced than I’ve seen in any of the king’s cities or towns. He admitted to himself.

  Yort continued to walk leisurely, up to the building and all the healers snapped their neck in their direction. Apparently news spread faster than one thought because only a few healers seemed to become openly frightened with Shade walking casually in their presence. The others mainly gawked.

  The entire group stopped at a desk that stood in the middle of the courtyard. There was an older looking woman behind the desk, looking at each of them. She had grey hair and a plump figure. Commander Yort spoke to the woman. “These are the newest recruits and they need to be seen.”

  Her voice came out sharp and raspy. “I’m not blind nor am I touched in the head. I will find you a proper healer, but I don’t know what I can do about that thing.” She pointed to Shade.

  “We meant no disrespect.” Alex began speaking to the lady, but couldn’t hide his disappointment in her blatant disrespect. “I’m sure he is well even without a checkup, but he has also decided to join the cause of his own volition. I can guarantee he will be kind, so be kind in turn.”

  Her eyes narrowed on the tall boy. “I will see what I can do. Go sit at a table and wait for a healer to come to you.” She pointed to an open table with an open curtain. It was too small for all of them, if they stuck together, but separation wasn’t ideal in such a circumstance.

  “Follow me, Shade.” The woman’s eyes widened as Alex walked over to where she pointed. She wondered if she heard what she thought she did.

  Shade, Marlin, Lily, Captain Yort and Alex sat for an hour by the curtain, hoping someone would finally come. The other new recruits were seen to promptly and went somewhere else. Shade had gotten tired of standing around for so long and decided to lay down right in front of the curtain doorway. They watched closely as the healers and patients gave Shade a wide berth. The older woman disappeared inside the building and hadn’t returned since they began waiting.

  People had always feared fiends because of ignorant reputations and misconceptions. Shadow Fangs in particular have had a long and bad standing. They have always been portrayed as vicious and bloodthirsty fiends with an insatiable appetite for people and children, but after meeting Shade Alex knew they were completely false accusations and myths. Fiends have personalities just like people. Some can be kind and gentle and others can be too dangerous to be around. It would take time, but Alex would show that fiends can be both honorable and trustworthy. Shade was doing his best to help in his brother’s quest.

  Then people around the courtyard started whispering as a young and beautiful woman walked out of the healers building. She looked to be in her early twenties. She had on a white tunic that covered most of her torso’s flesh and pants. She had a mature figure with a large bust. The woman wasn’t very tall, but she was developed. Her hair was dark brown and rested behind her shoulder blades. Plus she had gentle brown eyes, but they were extensively knowledgeable. She wore white shoes and walked brusquely in their direction. In her left hand hung a closed case made of a thin wood. Alex wondered what she wanted…

  “Oh we are all in serious trouble now. That old broad sent out our head healer.” Commander Yort said while smiling warily.

  Shade lifted his head to look at the woman coming toward him. “It’s about time. I was about to leave.” Shade said, slowly stood up and stretched, showing everyone how long they had to wait to finally be seen.

  The healer stopped cold to look at Shade with a curious expression. Her voice was soft as she spoke. “So what everyone was saying is true. No wonder why none of my staff wanted to check you out. You are a magnificent specimen.” She then surprised them all as she walked up to Shade without apparently thinking. She then began to walk around him while murmuring under her breath.

  Shade’s voice
stuttered. “Alex, what is this female doing?”

  “I think she is studying you…”

  Alex stopped speaking once the woman looked at him. “You can speak with him?” he nodded casually. “Ok then will you tell him I’ll examine him first. He’s piqued my curiosity.” She began smiling like she had new study material. She didn’t seem the least bit curious how Alex was able to speak to Shade.

  Commander Yort began laughing. “Niranene, you need to be examined yourself. Aren’t you the least bit afraid that you’ll be eaten?”

  She then glared at him. “Yort, should I give you some of my medicine to silence that tongue?” He stopped laughing as she lifted her case meaningfully. It put him on edge. What did she have for medicine? Alex wondered. “I thought you would see it my way. This is a once in a lifetime opportunity for me to observe a docile Shadow Fang. Now be silent while I work.” Niranene then looked at Alex. “Tell your fiend to stay still.”

  She sat down her case and opened it while Alex explained what she said. She pulled out a round metallic, egg shaped item. Seven clear bottles were also inside the case, each one filled with pellets a different color, like the colors of a rainbow. Alex realized she is a level five healer with eight items that were born to her. She stood up while cupping the metallic egg in her left palm. She closed her eyes and placed the rounded metal against his large ribs. She then opened her eyes and smiled.

  Niranene gestured to her metallic egg. “This item allows me to see inside one’s body, once I find the heartbeat. He has no internal injuries nor is he carrying any parasites. Your Shadow Fang is in perfect health.” Alex told Shade the good news as she went on. “Who’s next?”

  “I am.” Marlin said a little too happily. Alex could see that his friend was instantly infatuated with the healer. He walked right up to her, unabashed, as Shade came over to stand with his brother and Lily. “What do I need to do, Beautiful?”

  Niranene smiled and blushed, but kept eye contact with Marlin. “Open your shirt so I can access your heart.” Marlin began unbuttoning his shirt and Niranene’s eyes seemed to almost glaze over once she saw his impressive physique. She shook her head momentarily before she closed her eyes and pressed her item to his chest. She cleared her throat. “You are fit as well.”

  While Lily was getting checked Alex spoke to Marlin in a hushed tone. “Her item is similar to yours. Your bobber can see things underwater, like she can see inside the body.”

  He grinned back and whispered. “I think that is one of the reasons I like her.” He then began watching the healer’s every move.

  “You’re next, Alex.” Lily said while buttoning the top of her tunic, the liquid metal flashed between her breasts had caught the sunlight momentarily.

  He walked up to Niranene and unbuttoned the top two buttons of his tunic. She smiled politely as she looked up at Alex. She then put the item over his left pectoral muscle and closed her eyes. Her brow began to crease and he asked “Is something wrong?”

  Her eyes shot open as she took her item away from his firm chest. “I cannot tell. I am…unable to see inside your body though I felt your heart beat quite strongly. I’ve never not seen inside someone before.”

  Commander Yort was by his side quickly. “Niranene, what does this mean?”

  “That’s the problem. I don’t know.” She began biting her bottom lip.

  Alex spoke up. “Do you know the seer, Angie?” They both nodded and he could tell she was well known amongst Freelan. “She had the same problem with me. It was like I was invisible to her. When we met she didn’t see me coming.”

  “Really? I’ve never heard her of immediate predictions ever being wrong.” Yort spoke aloud. “I wonder why some items don’t work against you…” He shook his head and glanced at Niranene. “Can you allow him to work?”

  “I guess so. He is fit so I cannot see why he cannot. But Alex, if you feel the slightest bit off, do not hesitate to come and see me.”

  “I promise.”

  His word seemed to ease her worry.

  She nodded and looked at the group. “You may do as you like. I have other errands to attend to. Excuse me.” She glanced behind Alex’s shoulder and blushed before rushing off.

  Yort soon brought the four to the third largest building. While they walked each discussed why certain items work with Alex and others don’t.

  This building was the city’s mess hall and inn. It had darkened to almost being completely night outside once they finally arrived. It was thirteen stories tall and it was loud inside. Three stories are designated for an extensive tavern while the rest are rooms one can rent. Music and too many conversations filled the nearby area. The building was squared off and lined with torches.

  There was one large gate they passed under as they came inside. There was a wooden stairwell to the higher levels. Rows and rows of tables and chairs were mostly occupied and a great deal filled the upper sections. Off in the back were musicians playing something that made one’s pulse jump to the tune. The walls were lit by torches and there were many candles on the multitude of chandeliers suspended from the ceiling. People were eating, drinking and having a great time.

  That was until The Pack was spotted.

  The music stopped, as did most of the conversations. Every pair of eyes shifted to them and Commander Yort finally snapped. “What is everyone’s problem!? If you haven’t seen Shade yet, I’d guarantee you’ve heard about him from someone! It’s not like he’s going to go on a killing spree! Go back to what you were doing!” His eyes narrowed on the musicians until they began playing.

  Music might have been playing, but not a single person took their eyes off of them. Commander Yort sighed heavily and walked over to the platform where the chefs were looking at them curiously. The four followed him and some chefs walked back into the kitchen.

  A well fed woman with short brown hair waited behind the bar table. She scowled, but kept her comments to herself. Everyone lined up, with Shade and Alex bringing up the rear.

  Yort had a tray of meat and mead as he turned to look at the four. “You need to find your own seat and try not to cause an unfavorable incident in the future. I will meet you all in the morning should you need me. If you have problems, send someone for me or a higher ranked official and I’ll see what we can do.”

  Lily and Marlin gained the same food as Yort, on their trays. They waited off to the side while Alex walked up to the woman. “What would you like?” She glanced from the raven haired lad with grey eyes to Shade, scowling.

  Shade whispered in his ear after he asked what he’d like. “Shade would like a large slab of cooked meat and a bowl of berries. Do you have stock enough to feed a growing boy of his size?”

  She finally grinned. “Aye. We have food enough to feed a growing boy. Let me see what I can do.” Her change of demeanor startled Alex for a moment.

  She disappeared behind a wooden door. A few minutes later the woman returned with a huge circular tray with slabs of sliced meat which was two hands thick and a wooden bowl of berries was balanced atop the meat. She struggled with the weight, but managed to slide it onto the table. She harrumphed one last time before sighing and then said “I hope this works for him.”

  “See for yourself.”

  He pointed at Shade and once she saw what the lad meant she began laughing merrily. Large golden eyes were focused only on the tray before him. He had a thin stream of drool dripping off the tips of his sabers and his nose twitched wildly, whiskers flared. He wanted to eat right away.

  Alex stepped to the long table and hoisted the meat easily onto his shoulder. He looked at the lady and said “Thank you. I will come back soon to get my food.”

  He turned around and saw an empty table in the far back corner on this level. Taking the lead, He was followed by Shade and the others. He walked between the rows, feeling everyone’s eyes studying their every move. They passed many other members who all looked battle hardened, but they didn’t make a move for them. Alex knew if the
y ever posed a threat that the entire city wouldn’t hesitate to strike. The music was still playing and a few conversations had returned, but things were still tense while they maneuvered to the empty back table.

  The circular table they used had four chairs made out of an old wood, but they were sturdy. It was peaceful back here so they took it without any interruptions. He placed Shade’s tray on top of the table and moved the bowl of berries off to the side. Shade’s eyes continued savoring his imminent meal. With his hands freed Alex grabbed one chair and moved it over to another empty table. Shade would eat with them like always. That wouldn’t change.

  Lily and Marlin sat their trays down and took their seats. Once Shade sat where the former chair stood, Alex said “I’ll be back soon.”

  He soon returned to the lady. She grinned “What will you have?”

  “Meat, cheese and bread. May I also have two large mugs of water?” Shade hadn’t drank anything in quite a while.

  She smiled again as she went into the back. She returned with his tray of food and two large wooden mugs. The meat was goat, as was where the wedge of cheese came from. The bread was a solid loaf, as long and as thick as his forearm, freshly baked and smelled more delicious than the rest of the course. Alex hoisted the tray onto his hand easily and said “Thank you for the meal. Tell the others who made it I’m grateful for their hard work.”

  She smiled brightly. “Your words are kind. I will pass on your consideration to the staff.”

  He returned to the table and both Marlin and Shade had begun eating. Shade had already consumed half of his sliced meat. Marlin was still cutting into some of his meat. When Alex sat down, Lily smiled and began eating with him. It was nice of her to wait.

  Marlin continued jabbering on and on about Niranene. And later on, Lily and Alex had a conversation about why some certain items don’t affect him. Once Shade completed his hardy meal he grabbed his mug of water in his teeth and reared his head back. As he downed his water several people began laughing from the sight. Alex also noticed that many of the other conversations in the hall had picked up to its original level. There were a few discussions he overheard and they were mostly about Shade or their group. The Pack smiled at each other and spoke, but they could all feel the atmosphere dissipating. Things had finally relaxed with everyone inside the mess hall.

  That was until an hour later. All of the raucous conversations and music ceased quicker than when Alex and the others made their arrival.

  What had silenced everyone? Alex thought to himself.

  Shade was laying on his side after eating so well, but his head came up and alert. He was speaking with his back to the entrance of the hall. Lily, Marlin and Alex were still sitting around the corner table having a reasonably long conversation about how amazingly large this city is.

  Once they heard the noises stop, they ceased their conversation.

  Everyone in the hall was gawking toward the entrance, but as Alex followed their line of sight everyone shot to their feet, sounds of chairs grating the floor shattered the silence for only a few seconds. It was like a wave as everyone stood at full attention. Some swooned because they had drunk too much liquor, but they tried sobering up as fast as they could. They’ve never seen any group move like this when they were just relaxing.

  Alex’s questioning thought was asked again as he tried determining the cause for the reaction everyone had. He stood tall, trying to look over others. There were too many heads blocking a clear view. Alex was a tall man, but he wasn’t tall enough to see what others could.

  Lily and Marlin stood by his side and Shade rose to his full height as well. He raised his head taller than his brother so he could see clearer. His eyes narrowed, but he couldn’t lock onto a specific spot. They were darting to several areas, but not clear enough to focus.

  Alex wanted to ask what he could see, but before he could there was a deep and rich voice. It had an accent, one like Alex faintly remembered from the past. It boomed and echoed off the walls, but it seemed almost playful.

  “I hear we have some new recruits! I was told that they were here! Did we miss them!?”

  A fainter voice spoke. “No Sir. They are still in the back, General.”

  Many eyes widened. The reason everyone went to their feet was because a general had appeared. Alex whispered into each of his companion’s ears and they had the same reaction, fear in seeing a high ranking officer. Shade knew what a general was from all of the books he has read from Alex’s old collection. Alex wasn’t sure how to react, but he knew to hold his tongue unless spoken to because flippancy could endanger all of them if anything was said out of turn.

  Every head in the room turned toward them for a moment once they realized what had been said.

  There was a large motion of moving people as they made way for a general. There were whispers and glances filling the room, some shot accusation stares at the corner. The sound of shuffling feet was irritating. It was then that Alex gained his first glimpse of the general.

  He was a very tall man; even taller than Alex was. He stood about six foot eight. His skin tone was extremely dark like Takka’s and Alex remembered that was the accent he recognized. People continued to move so the general could continue heading in their direction. The closer he moved the more of him they saw. He was clad in a green and gold tunic, but his legs seemed to be armored. The leggings were definitely an item, but unlike Lily’s liquid-like armor, his were solid and removable. There were three sharp spikes on each bend in the knee and a pointed spike where the tips of his feet are. His arms were twice as bulky as Alex’s and his neck seemed too thick to be possible on a man. Over each of his hands were silver-like gauntlets with a sharp spike over each knuckle. The gleam of another item was peeking over his shoulder, but Alex wasn’t positive as to what exactly it was. He became dumbfounded to see so many weapon items belonging to a single person. He was inconceivably powerful.

  Then Alex realized that he wasn’t alone. Two more men followed behind. The two men each had different types of items, but they wore the same attire as this general. One man had what looked like an oval, full bodied shield slung behind his back and the other had what looked like three sharp and curved claws wrapped over his hands. The two men were true warriors because of how fluid and sure they walked. They weren’t brothers, but they moved like they were.

  The general’s dark eyes shifted to Shade once he was close enough. A smile spread across his face as he stopped only four paces away. He also had the whitest teeth Alex has ever seen, even whiter than his own. He seemed pleasant, but his movements said otherwise. He was prepared for an attack.

  Once he came close enough to see each of them, his eyes moved off Shade. The dark eyes measured each of them in turn. Marlin stood calmly as he measured the three men. Lily stood and casually rested her hands on the pommels of her short swords. She too looked at the others like Marlin. Alex on the other hand stood with his staff in his right hand and kept it close to his side. He didn’t plant the butt on the ground, but it seemed as if it was. His eyes locked onto the general’s only.

  “So you must be their leader.” He sounded sure as their eyes connected. And his men stood directly at his side.

  If he did perceived the tall boy as a threat then Alex needed to be prepared as well. He calmed his voice and made his words ring true. “I’m not the leader of my friends. They look to me for advice, but I do not order them to do anything against their will. There is a big difference between a leader and a friend.”

  Alex saw the general’s clawed companion move to intercept him for such blunt words, but Alex took a half step forward and flipped his staff. He pointed the end of the staff in the center of the warrior’s throat with less than an tenth of an inch to spare. He had the advantage and the other man knew it. He became motionless from the speed of the counter, but the staff didn’t even shake as it remained at the ready. Several people gasped at Alex’s explosive movement, but none dare moved.

  The general began l
aughing. “You moved quicker than my second in command. You must be a good fighter.” He then looked between the two. “Both of you relax. Maiot, he wasn’t being malicious in his words. He was stating a fact that a leaders quality should be as a friend not as one who thinks he is superior.”

  Alex stepped back and returned to his earlier stance. Maiot rubbed his throat and smiled weakly. “If you moved that dangerously with only wood, I’m actually afraid of what your item might be.”

  “You don’t need to worry about that because I don’t have one.”

  He laughed and rubbed his bald head. Then stopped once he saw the recruit’s empty expression. “Wait… you’re serious?” he remained silent.

  Their words were heard by most everyone in the hall. The general also realized this and looked at the crowd. “At ease! Go back to what you were doing before I interrupted your evening meal!”

  For the first time Alex saw what was on his back in the general’s turn to the crowd. It was a two sided battleaxe and it had a thick handle as long as its owner’s arm. It wasn’t difficult to realize that the general specialized and was lethal in close and hand to hand combat.

  Slowly the music began playing and everyone took their seats. Most everyone quieted so they could eavesdrop on the general’s conversation. Most eyes returned to their group once again.

  The general looked at all of them. “Would you mind if we may join you?”

  “Pull up a chair.” Alex said and looked at Shade. “It’s alright. He wants to talk.” Shade nodded and laid on his belly next to Alex’s chair, but his back legs were tightly planted underneath and his front legs were outstretched. He usually does this incase he needs to stand instantly.

  When Alex turned back around, the three new guests were staring at him, but the general’s eyes were calculating something. He wasn’t gawking like everyone else who’s heard his talent for the first time.

  He turned his chair to the side and began rubbing Shade’s back with his left hand. Predatory golden eyes were zeroed in on the second in command. Maiot wasn’t slow as to why Shade glared at him. At least he didn’t growl.

  Marlin sat at the back end of the round table while Lily sat between them. The three guests rearranged their previous order. The general sat next to Alex, but he sat in the chair backwards with his legs open. The shield man laid the item on the floor and sat between the general and Maiot. It was a silent moment for everyone until all had settled into their seats.

  The general took a deep breath while looking at the four of them. “Since you are new around here, I would like to introduce myself. My name is General Rakkian. I am nine-and-thirty years of age and I am the head general under the queen. Now may I get to know each of you, ya?” His eyes shifted to Alex’s right for only a moment, he meant for his man to introduce himself.

  “I am Gyro, I am a level five weapons class who specializes in the ultimate defense.” The man with the shield said evenly.

  “I am Captain Maiot. I too am a level five, but I specialize in close and midrange attacks. I am second in command under our top general.”

  Then it seemed prudent that it was their turn to introduce themselves. After all, the highest ranked officer took time out of his busy day to personally visit them. Even if they were the lowest subordinates of Freelan, it wouldn’t have been wise to remain silent. Rakkian seemed welcoming enough.

  Patting his brother’s back he said. “This is Shade. He is only a year and a half old, but he is smarter than your average human. If you would like to speak with him without me present, you may write to him. He can both read and write so don’t even speculate that he is an ignorant fiend.” General Rakkian nodded while looking at Shade.

  He then spoke for himself. “I am Alex. I’m nineteen and I can speak with fiends and animals. I was born without an item and I think that is why I might be capable of speaking with all manner of creatures…”

  “Who was the one who gave you that ring?” The general interrupted suddenly, peering at the silver ring expectantly.

  “My uncle, Gambit.”

  General Rakkian’s eyes widened and his voice had to be cleared before he could get out “Would that happen to be Commander Gambit… Gambit the Red Soil?” Alex nodded and the General’s brilliant grin widened. “This is great news… I was in his battalion when I first joined. He might have only had a level one item, but I couldn’t ever best him in battle. We sparred together and I learned that a level one could beat a level five if they are more experienced. Where is he? Did he come with you or is he still retired? How is he?”

  Alex’s throat swelled so tightly that he couldn’t speak.

  The general caught the expression and understood. “I see…” his expression became less animated, disheartened. His eyes shifted to his left and his voice became lower. “I received a report yesterday stating that you would be joining us Lily of the Blood Moon. I know who you are, ya. Be not afraid of my men for I have ordered them to leave you unharmed, while you remain on good behavior. Watch where you tread and go not alone without another with you, for danger is present. Just know there are many who are after your head right now.”

  “I’m not unaware of the crimes I have committed in the name of the king. If it wasn’t for Alex, I would still be doing what I was ordered, uncaring of the lives I’ve ruined or would still be ruining. But I am grateful for your warning, general.” She said evenly and calmly. Alex was proud to see how she’s changed.

  General Rakkian’s eyes began calculating again as he listened to her.

  “I’m Marlin I’m five-and-twenty years of age. I’m mainly a water type weapon user, but some of my skills are land based and also reside mildly in the specialist class.”

  “Terrific. We need some aquatic item users, ya.” Marlin began shaking his head in a halting manner. “What is the problem?”

  Marlin’s voice became unmovable. “I’m sorry, general, but I’m not going to stray from my pack. We work well together and wherever they go, I go. If you wish for me to do anything else I’ll gladly take the responsibility, but I will not be separated from them.”

  A smile crept across the general’s thick lips. “So you work well together?” He began scratching his smooth chin. “I want to see for myself just how well you are. How about we have a test of sorts, ya?”

  “What kind of test?” Alex asked, drawing attention back to himself.

  “Something simple and easy... I was thinking of pitting my very best team together against you so that we can judge your skills. How about it?”

  “That all depends on the rules and what is on stake.”

  Another smile deepened on him. “The rules are quite simple. All items are allowed, but they must be wrapped so that no one is seriously injured. We will have a four on four battle, but I will have one of my men fighting atop a horse just to even the odds against Shade here.” He thumbed to his right. “We will also need to cover his sabers and claws.”

  He began talking more about the unique rules he obviously thought up on the spot for them to work together. Once he was finished explaining, each of the group thought it would be a good idea. Shade was thrilled about fighting, but not about covering up his prized sabers. He was most proud of them.

  Then the general ended the discussion by saying “I have had a pleasurable meeting this night, but I still have work to accomplish before retiring. I shall meet you all early in the morning. Have a pleasant night, sleep well and be prepared for the coming hours.”

  Everyone in the mess hall quieted as General Rakkian stood. He soon left with his other men, trailing close behind. Soon they were out of sight and everyone in the room began speaking again, with renewed vigor. Those who were eavesdropping on the conversation stood from their tables and began explaining to their friends about what was said at their table. Soon the groups were buzzing about the fight that was going to occur in the morning.

  “Alex, I believe we had better get some sleep.” Lily requested as she stretched her arms forward across the ta
ble.

  They were all exhausted from all the travels of the day so they cleaned up. They put all of the trays and bowls together and Marlin took the large stack of dirty plates and trays, over to the woman again.

  Once he came back they all left the suddenly silent mess hall, The Pack had caused an entire city to notice them, but they expected no less.

  At the very least I could pit myself against the best Freelan had to offer. Uncle Gambit would be laughing if he knew about this. Alex thought humorously.

  It took over an hour, but with some guidance from the local residence they managed to make it back to the barracks. It was dark outside and the torches helped light their path. There were very few people down in the social hall, but those that were still looked at them with caution.

  They made it to their room on the seventh floor and walked inside.