Furion's Trials (Book Two of the Items Trilogy)

by H. Lee Morgan, Jr

  Gerieg was also grateful Kikren had the sense enough to bury their father’s body with the dirt and stones removed from the collapse. The children didn’t need to see any of that, especially Sean.

  Once Gerieg escaped the confined tunnel with Shay, he looked at his aid. “Kikren, please lead the way out of here.”

  “Certainly.” He said in relief and began shining the way out.

  Before they rounded the last corner of the cave Alex said “Everyone stop here for a moment.” They did and Gerieg was curious as to what the raven haired Furion was up to. Alex sat his staff down and pulled out the knife from his pocket. He then took off the tunic he ruined when he jumped into digging the younglings out, without thinking once upon himself. Gerieg and Kikren couldn’t complain for the children’s safety were more important than how they looked. Alex then cut the sleeves from his tunic and beat the dirt out. “Sean, come here. You’ve spent too much time in the dark and outside it will be too bright for you, for a short time.”

  Gerieg smiled at how quickly Alex thought this up. As Alex knelt Sean stepped forward and allowed him to tie the cloth over his eyes. “Can you see me?” He asked while waving his hands before Sean’s face. Sean nodded.

  The way Alex knelt before the boy brought a flood of memories to the surface. It at that very moment the elder Furion came to a decision he needed to confer with his partners about, for they needed to agree it was the right time.

  Once he was done they walked out into the sunlight, exiting the cave.

  Waiting impatiently were his partners Elo and Sheer, but Shade wasn’t nearby. Gerieg looked to his pupil who scanned the area worriedly. Elo came closer and said “Wondrous, you’ve found two living. Are these cubs hurt?”

  Gerieg answered “Nay, they were safely hidden from the Juguan. Unfortunately they are now orphans.” He looked around one more time to ask “Where has Shade run off to?”

  Elo shook his head. “I know not. He said he needed to do something and ran through his shadow near an hour ago. Sheer tried following him, but gave up and came back to wait with me.”

  Alex came close, with Sean walking nearby. Alex then said “Not to worry, I have an idea of what he’s up to.” Before he elaborated he turned to speak to the boy. “Let’s get to the water’s edge and clean you up. Master, allow me to also bathe Shay. Go ahead and let your partners know what happened.”

  Gerieg nodded and transferred Shay into his care.

  He needed to get something off his chest and told Kikren and both of his partners to come with him.

  Gerieg moved far away from Alex and the children with his companions. They settled by the water’s edge and had the near cliff to their back; out of Alex’s hearing range and the lapping water further obscure the conversation. Kikren was cleaning himself while making sure Alex wouldn’t eavesdrop on this conversation.

  “I cannot keep doing this the traditional way.” Gerieg said to Sheer because she was the one who wouldn’t judge as harshly. Elo probably won’t disagree, but a female’s instincts would be more approving of the many truth’s that needed to be exposed.

  She cocked her head and blinked in confusion.

  Gerieg drew his sword and began washing it off in the water; removing all the blood and gore. While he cleaned it he said “Today Alex learned how to trigger his item without an outside force, whether he knew it or not. The deed had already been done yet he brought his power to his will to fight with us. He probably thought about all the death we’ve seen this day. What’s more I even had a difficult time controlling my rage after seeing the display the priest left. Alex fought on a level that a Furion in their third year of training would have struggled to keep up with. Though he is much older in the training than any other to my memory, he needs to begin activating alone…”

  “So” She began in interruption, speaking like a proud mother again. “he learns faster than most Furions.” She then added. “Although what you say is true I believe he is not alone. Shade too is growing like no other Shadow Fang I’ve ever encountered. Back home we have several packs, but none have his raw ability and instincts. He even eluded me.” She admitted a personal observation that wasn’t disputed. Gerieg too has seen the talents the pup has. “Though Shade is size of one being classified as a fiend lord, the other Fang lords would have a difficult time keeping up with his rapidly developing skills. That first day we had him run Alex across the plains we were all shocked at how quickly he arrived and the condition the two arrived in. If any other Shadow Fang his size were to attempt the same feat they would be hours later or died from the strain. To me it’s like the two spur each other to surpassing their own latent abilities and reaching a strength none of us have seen before.”

  Elo grunted to gain attention. He made sure his large body was a barrier between himself and their conversation. “They are both still raw and untrained, and I hate to admit it, but you’re right Sheer.” Both Gerieg and Sheer’s jaws dropped slightly. In their entire time as Gerieg’s partners he’s only said she was right three times in the past. This was a rare complement. “Those two not only speak like brothers, but act the part. They push, argue and support each other and what’s more they are getting stronger with each passing day. Gerieg, when we grew up together it took us near ten years to reach their level and that pair has only been partnered for less than two. In almost three weeks I am getting close to running at my best and Shade’s speed and endurance is climbing by leaps and bounds. I won’t be surprised if he can match or even exceed my speed by next week, for a short time.” He admitted with another snort. Elo prided himself on his strength and endurance. “What’s more, Shade has grown almost another inch taller in these three weeks and his shoulder and flank muscles have developed slightly, but noticeably. I believe he needs more meat to continue strengthening his growth.”

  “So why are we speaking like this?” Sheer wondered aloud. “I mean how has Alex’s rapid growth made this sudden alteration to the plan, Gerieg?”

  He smiled and glanced over Elo’s body to see Alex helping Sean out of his slightly bloodstained and dirty tunic. Sean still had his eyes covered for the dark cave night-vision would need some time to adjust to daylight again. Gerieg shook his head and saw Alex’s serene expression that hadn’t changed. “This has very little to do with his remarkable abilities, but more about what I saw. Look at him closely and tell me what you see.”

  His partners both turned to look at the student in training, as he waded out into the water with Sean in one hand and Shay clutched in the other. Once his blade was glistening from the bath, Gerieg cleaned its sheath and slid the ornate blade back in its home.

  It was Elo who first broke the silence as Alex pulled a piece of soap to give the boy. “Now I understand what you wish to do.”

  Sheer asked, in a dejected tone. “Apparently I’m clueless as to what’s going on so will someone let me in on this secret?”

  Elo turned his large eyes upon hers. “My friend, it was many years ago and you were still young at the time, but you should look more closely at Alex’s face. Think hard and tell me who he reminds you of.”

  She riffled her feathers and turned her head at different angles as she peered at Alex. Then she blinked rapidly and squinted. When her eyes widened in shock she nearly spun her neck all the way around to look at Gerieg. “He looks so much like his father. So you’re planning…”

  “Aye, I believe it is time to tell him the truth.” Gerieg stated.

  “When?” Elo asked.

  “Tonight, after we mend certain matters.”

  With that settled they allowed Gerieg time to clean his dirty clothes and his polished metal wrist protectors. They had yet another decision to make.

  As Alex finishing bathing Shay, the masters returned from a serious discussion they were having over a way’s away.

  Though Alex remained focused on helping the children and feeling relived they were alive he could see that the masters seemed to be more at ease, like a decision was made that li
fted their spirits.

  Alex rewrapped the baby girl, both he and Sean walked back on shore to meet up with Gerieg and the others. Gerieg and Kikren had both washed, but those sets of clothes would be tarnished forever, but his were no more than rags now. Luckily there were spares in the packs.

  Kikren spotted Sean’s pants and tunic, picked them up and walked over to the water’s edge and began washing them. There were some bloody spots from scratches Sean received when he tried digging his way through when many hours passed and the village didn’t come for them.

  As they made it to shore Gerieg bent down to sit on his heels. “Now that you and your sister are safe I need to tell you something, Sean.”

  Sean lifted the cloth wrapping from his eyes to peek at Gerieg, but found his eyes weren’t yet adjusted and had to continue to see through the fabric. “What is it?” He asked in worry.

  To Alex’s surprise, Gerieg spoke with compassion and didn’t treat Sean like a child. He spoke as if he were a peer. “Sean, listen. Do you have any relatives you know of?”

  Alex already knew the children couldn’t travel with them and he had a suspicion of what Shade had left to do.

  Sean shook his head. “Nay, the only family I ever knew or met was here in my village.” He choked off a sob, trying to remain strong in the company of strangers. “I cannot stay in my home, can I?”

  “I’m afraid not.” Gerieg stated matter-of-factly. “I had hoped you had family elsewhere, but if you don’t then there aren’t many options…”

  “I’M BACK!” Shade howled, causing Shay to cry and frightening Sean.

  “What was that sound?” Sean asked in fear.

  “That was my brother, Shade.” Alex said and pointed to where he stood at the cliff’s edge. Kikren returned the washed clothes to Sean who attired them again.

  Shade looked down at them all and barked “Come up here, I’ve got something to show you!”

  When everyone eventually made it back out of the lake they saw Shade standing on the lead ropes of two saddled horses. They moved over so that Sean wouldn’t see the state of his home. Both horses were black and white and terrified to be so close to a predator, but unable to escape because he held their bridles firmly in place. Gerieg began laughing and Alex was correct in his assessment when Shade said “Since you were in the cave so long I knew you found someone. Plus, if they were alright they’d need a way to get away from here. I found these two volunteers” He snarled and the horses quit fighting him. “and they were overjoyed to carry the survivors wherever they wished. Isn’t that right?” Shade asked menacingly while boring his golden eyes at them.

  They had no choice but to agree or end up as a meal.

  Kikren took the ropes from Shade and the horses relaxed as he came over to meet the young survivors.

  After they met Gerieg said “Shade, that was impressive thinking. We were just talking about where to send them to be safe. I have many allies who would gladly take them in, but they are some distance away and they needed these steeds to travel. By the way, I have my ideas of where to see them safely away, but do you have any?”

  “Actually I do.” Shade barked and glanced at Alex, who had the exact same idea. “Down in Greeton there is a husband and wife who cannot have children, but they have always wanted them. Our pack stayed with them and they were good people, very honorable and loving. They are part of Freelan, but they would make a good home for these human children. The man goes by Kallel and is normally found near the docks and his wife is Mary.”

  “Greeton, huh?” Gerieg scratched his chin. “Do you agree, Alex?”

  “Completely.” And he gave Kallel’s and Mary’s description.

  Gerieg nodded and said “Kikren, please come here and bring the horses. I have something I need for you to do, if you wouldn’t mind.” He came closer without pause. Then he said “My friend, I still cannot break away from Alex’s and Shade’s training so may I rely on you to care for these children and see them to safety?”

  “Of course, old friend.” He said with a whimsical smile. “It wouldn’t be the first time you had me taking care of children. At least they will be easier to work with rather than the offspring of a Furion.” He jerked his head in Alex’s direction, who was quickly annoyed for being left out of the loop once again. Alex buried the resentment for he said he’d wait till it was time. Whenever that will be…

  “Good there is a man down in Greeton by the name of Kallel…” Gerieg recounted the description of the two.

  In just a few minutes Kallel tied one horse’s lead rope to the horn of the other’s saddle and was grateful for the spoils hidden in the saddle’s packs. There was much dried food and gold that they can use during the travels. Gerieg found a cloth and made a wrap sling so that Kikren could hold the baby to his chest without the use of his hands. Without too many goodbyes Kikren mounted the lead horse and Gerieg handed him Shay.

  Alex walked with Sean to the second horse. When they were somewhat alone Sean confided weakly “What am I to do?”

  Alex knelt down and touched small shoulders that were loaded with burden. “There is only one thing you must do from now on.” Sean looked up and used a thumb to lift the cloth and see clearly with one eye. Alex smiled proudly. “Do anything and everything you want. If you want to be angry then be angry, but not to those that wish to help you. If you want to cry then do. Just be yourself. But if you want to protect your sister then use this.”

  Knowing how much Sean needed it more, Alex pushed his Xeal staff into the boy’s hands. “I’ve seen how your item increases your strength, use this to keep your sister safe. When you meet Kallel show this staff to him and he’ll know that you are strong and my friend. There are many like you. I too lost my family around your age, but I found someone I cherished along the way. Though Kallel and Mary won’t be able to replace your parents you must act as if they are for I will guarantee that they will love you just as much. And if you ever need someone to talk to, they will be there to listen. Now in the mean time listen to Kikren and be safe. I hope we meet again.” Sean then dropped the staff and suddenly wrapped his arms around Alex’s neck.

  Alex let him cry on his bare shoulder until he wanted to let go in his own time. The other’s were quiet and gave them as much time as Sean needed. In a few minutes he pulled himself together and looked at his sleeping sister, inside the cloth Kikren held with gentle care. “I’ll keep her safe, no matter the cost.” Sean stated before bending down to grab the staff that saved Alex’s life and many others. It was necessary to pass on a weapon used for protection. One day, when Sean gets his full abilities, that staff will have a proper master.

  Used to horses, Sean climbed his way up on the saddle and Alex gave the staff back when he settled in. He slid the staff through a loop in the side saddle-pack and secured his new weapon.

  Kikren took the lead and began leading the horses in a canter, away from the village, making sure the horror wasn’t burned into Sean’s memory. At least they’d be safe. Kikren and Kallel were good men and Alex had grown to trust them.

  “Come, we have work to do.” Gerieg said after they entered the woods.

  An hour later they brought all of the bodies of the villagers to the center of their home to burn them properly. Gerieg asked during this time why he gave his weapon to the boy. Alex said “Because it is no longer a proper weapon for me. In our fights I’ve come to realize that a staff isn’t right for someone like me. It is a defensive weapon and has a longer reach, but the speed and sharpness of a proper blade is more realistic when fighting an enemy with no morals or cares.”

  Gerieg agreed. “Staff or no staff, a blade is always granted to a Furion at the end of their training. Nevertheless, the worth of your staff has been used up, for that child was in need of it more. It was a wise choice to offer it to him.”

  The five stood together as the evil that was wrought to the villagers was being purified by flame. These poor souls were becoming one with the ground once again. The sacrifice of
the village would be cleansed while the defilers were left to rot in a pile where Alex, Shade and the others served justice.

  As the burial fire burned and all eyes watched the flame did Gerieg say “Alex, earlier you asked about the Juguan people and why they are the way they are. Do you still wish to know?”

  Unsure after all that he seen, he managed to say “To know an enemy is to know how he sees the world. This world is one we live in and we all share. Ideology is personal to the individual, but if you cannot see past yourself, you’ll never understand another. Though I will never agree with this, I need to know.”

  “Very well, in the southern territories of Ra’van there is a vast city called Jugo that usually governed itself, but reported to me. Jugo is ruled by the high priest and king by the name of Yosh. King Yosh became king eight-and-thirty years ago, when he killed the former King Klen. During Klen’s reign there were two factions to the Juguan religion. The Juguan people all believe that the Ancients who gave humanity the blessings of items will come back to this world and teach humanity their powers of creation. The first of the two factions is peaceful, like the former king, and devotedly prayed for the return. They would give a small amounts of each of their meals in the form of a burnt offering as thanks for the Ancients giving them a feast. Those people were kind to each and every person and were practically harmless. They did not even eat meat for they think to kill another to eat its flesh is a sin to the Ancients, though they didn’t condone or harm anyone who were of a different mind. Though they were peaceful they weren’t weak.

  “Like what Allahandra has done to her city, the peaceful priests and worshipers of the Juguan trained to defend themselves, weapon items or not. All had the right to live and although they were of peace, they knew the cruelties of the world just like any other being. Life is a struggle to continue and survive on, but they had one rule, never murder or sacrifice another living creature whether it be a chicken, goat or even human for the Ancients. They wish to bide their time with prayer for their return to this plain.