Chapter 17: The Break [Chris O’Kane, Rimme]
The Keeper guard, bearing the tabard of the Euper Watch, looked Kasaima up and down. "You know the rug merchants, do you? May'ap you can answer some questions we 'ave on 'em."
From Kasaima's shoulder, Trey interrupted. "He doesn't know them. I told him about the carpets. That man," he pointed to Reed, "he was the only one I spoke to." Which was technically true. Trey didn't need to tell the guards that he'd overheard the talk of mutiny.
A short man with grizzled brown hair in a fine green coat pushed his way through. Reed was close behind him with another guard. "There's the buyer I told you about," Reed was saying to the well-dressed man.
The man ignored the small rat and scrutinized the oni and his thick blue pouches. His hard face instinctively softened at the prospect of a deal, before it hardened again. "Reed, Aldwin, would you settle our latest guest in for a drink? I'll see if I can't move our cargo where he can see them, away from these nosy patrolmen."
The other guard, his uniform cleaner than Reed's and his weapons more awkwardly conspicuous, nodded as he gawked at the large oni. Aldwin seemed about the same age as Trey, not yet hardened by years or even weeks of combat.
All five of them moved to a table, which had been quickly vacated upon Kasaima's arrival. Kasaima sat down and politely waited for Reed to ask what he'd like to drink.
"Your hospitality is generous, but I fear that unless this establishment carries a good amount of sake, more than I'm sure your coin could buy, I won't be satisfied. Both of you look like you could use the drink more than me. May I ask again what's going on here?"
Reed and Aldwin exchanged looks, and Aldwin sighed. "Two of the other guards, Rodrick and Nathan. They broke into our rooms while we were all out of the inn. They took all the food and money we had. Then they broke into the stable and took our horses. Stabbed a couple guys on the way out. Seems like they fled south without us."
"That's terrible!" Trey said. "Who was hurt?"
"A stablehand got his arm slashed. Two gate guards were knocked down and trampled. They'll be fine, they weren't injured too bad, and some healers were there immediately."
The guard shook his head. "Why? Why do that?"
"They were probably tired of waiting around." Aldwin said. "They were afraid of the curse."
"In that case I am sure of where they are headed; south." The guard said.
"Perhaps North to the downs?" Another asked.
He shook his head. "They never go north. Why go the wildlands of the North when you can go to civilization in the south? We'll send out messages, but it will be hard to catch them."
"At least the rugs and wagons are safe," someone said. "We still stand a chance to make money."
"I wish I had gotten here earlier. No one would have had to get hurt."
Aldwin cringed and stared down at the table. Reed gave a slight shrug as he spoke. "Nothing can be done for it now. They left the rugs and the wagon. The real problem is they took the horses. We've been in Metamor for five days now, and the five of us now have no way out."
Kasaima tilted his head. "Are you in a hurry to leave, then?"
The other four looked at him in varying degrees of confusion. "Ah!" Reed realized. "You're not human, so it wouldn't have mattered to you."
Aldwin's eyes shot back up. Apparently, he had assumed the oni was just another Keeper.
Reed continued, "Humans who stay a week or more at Metamor are at risk of being cursed. And after two weeks, unless they have some rare magic shielding, they always get cursed."
Chapter 18: Inn a Mess [Indy]
"Papa, what is big and strong and red all over?"
Misha looked at Madog, who (as usual) had seemingly materialized out of thin air. Misha had finally finished his ship's clock for Phil along with instructions on how to make one. He'd also been making a few adjustments to the automata fingers he'd crafted to replace his old ones. "I don't know Madog, what's big and strong and red all over?"
"I don't know either, but he's sitting in the Jolly Collie."
Misha smiled. "Thank you for letting me know." He patted Madog on the head and gave him a small ingot as a treat. It was a new tactic that seemed to be paying off; Madog was saying something that made sense at least a quarter of the time now! He got up, grabbed Whisper, and headed out as fast as he could to the Jolly Collie.
He was not encouraged when he arrived. It seemed like half of Euper was milling around outside his inn! "Excuse me! Coming through!" As soon as the crowd realized who it was it parted to let him through. "Misha, sir! Thank the Aedra you're here!" one of the Euper guards walked up. "A coupla folks bolted outta here on horses, tramplin' a coupla guards an' slashin' the stablehand's arm!"
His eyes slitted. "Was anyone killed?" It was asked quietly but with an underlying chill that made the guard shiver.
"No sir! The healers got here in time! But there's some big, ugly, thing inside! Aedras only know what it wants! There are other outsiders too!" The guard shook his head. "We've got a nice, respectable place here! We don't need no demons or outsiders muckin' it up!"
Inside the Collie, Misha immediately saw the "thing" the guard had been talking about. It was hard to miss, given its flaming red skin and size. He noticed there was a group of men gathered around the table with it. No one seemed alarmed, which he considered a plus. Whatever the being was, it wasn't violent. He then recalled the reports from earlier about an oni. This matched the description, but he wasn’t sure why it was here and not at the library.
The inside of the Collie had the usual murmur until everyone saw Misha. Then, like a group of children caught doing something naughty, everyone went very quiet. "I've heard there's been some trouble. May I ask what's going on?"
The group at the table looked at him. There was a man in a green coat and grizzled brown hair sitting nearly opposite the red being. On his right was a tall and thin man, wearing nondescript clothing and having equally nondescript hair and who made Misha think of a reed. Further right a man with black hair in a clean outfit. On the man's left was a young follower of Eli in a well-cared-for uniform, a Sign of the Yew draped from his neck. His hair reminded Misha of the autumn leaves. Just beyond him was a man Misha's age in clothes that did not look well-kept. He had wheat-blonde hair and a troubled look around his eyes that reminded Misha of other men who gambled and drank too much. It also fit the description of a man who'd been bad-mouthing everyone in the Keep.
Standing near the red being, but a bit away, was a man dressed head to toe in furs. What showed of his face was darkened by exposure to the sun and elements and included a bushy beard. He had a pair of skinning knives at his sides. Misha wondered briefly why the man was dressed so warmly in this weather but put it aside as a mystery to solve later. Though not too much later—strangers like this one could prove very dangerous to the unwary.
"I'm Gwayn," said the man in the green coat. "I'm a merchant by trade. I sold my quality rugs to a buyer here yearly. This year I discovered he died of a plague back in March, so I'm trying to find a new one. First, this gentleman, Howel," he motioned to the man in furs, "has offered escort services north to Starven which, if I understand aright, is flush with new folks fleeing from Lik."
"Yes, Lik was recently destroyed, and its people displaced," said Misha. He made a mental note to have all the Longs be aware of the man in the furs. Such an offer could easily lead travelers to their doom!
"These are my loyal guards, Gallus," he pointed to the dark-haired man, "Reed," the taller man nodded curtly, "Aldwin," the boy next to him gave Misha a sharp salute, "and Jerrod." Jerrod crossed his arms and frowned. Misha's dislike of the man increased. "I need to sell my rugs and we want to be gone before the Curses catch us. I have twenty rugs for sale and would like to sell them for sixty gold apiece. Any less than that and I would not be making a profit this trip."
"I see," said Misha. "And who are you?" he looked directly at the red figure. With his yellow horns and wild, white hair, he could see why the guard thought the being a demon!
"I am Hikariarashi Kasaima and go by Kasaima-san to acquaintances. I come from far to the east where a civil war broke my country. I was seeking knowledge at the library here, which is famous even in my land. Thanks to the help of Merlia-san and Trey-san," he motioned to a rat on his shoulder, "I was able to find the information I needed. Trey-san had asked me earlier if I could help with purchasing the rugs, but while I have a good supply of coins, I'm afraid I can only really afford to buy one rug at sixty gold. If I could find work, I might be able to get more, but that would take longer than these gentlemen have if what I understand about the Curses is correct."
"We've been here five days," said Gwayn.
Misha bowed to Kasaima. "Been a long time since we've seen one of your kind here. Welcome!" Misha nodded at Gwayn. "Hmm, show me your wares. If they're worth it, I'll buy them. I can use them for my rooms here. What was this I hear about stolen horses and goods, though?"
Gwayn sighed. "Two of my men, Rodrick and Nathan, stole or freed the horses as well as all the gold and food they could find. Gods only know where they've gotten to by now."
"Hmm, that is a problem, though not an insurmountable one. Supplies aren't too hard, but horses might be since you'd not be able to buy them."
"We had four total," said Reed. "I suspect they let the other two run to cause chaos and avoid immediate pursuit."
"If that's the case, I'll tell the Watch to look for them and bring them here. You ought to be able to go south on a cart with just two horses pulling, since you probably won't have your rugs."
Gwayn rose and bowed. "If it pleases you, I'll show both of you my wares." He headed to the door, followed closely by Aldwin and Reed, then Kasaima and Trey, then Gallus, Jerrod, and Howel, and finally Misha. As they left, Misha alerted the guards about the escaped horses and the individuals that stole the others. He saw Madog out of the corner of his eye and followed Gwayn and the others to the rugs.
Chapter 19: Final Offer [Rimme]
From the Jolly Collie, the nine of them headed to a warehouse one block away, built specifically to hold cargo from foreign merchants. The interior resembled a stable in its stone floor and the wide closed doors around the open center. A faint smell of horses still lingered, as if the walls still remembered the sweaty pack horses' relief of their burdens. Gwayn's wagon was parked in one stall but stacked high with a few tons of textiles made it impossible for one man to move. Gwayn looked back to Kasaima. "Could I use your strength here, please?"
Kasaima gave a nod and knelt down so that Trey could hop off his shoulder, landing on Aldwin. Aldwin was surprised but couldn't resist lifting a finger to stroke behind Trey's ears. Kasaima braced his arm against the wagon and pulled. It was an awkward position, but it was enough to slowly pull the wagon out of the stall.
Misha watched this, and finally came to a decision of his own. "One second," he said as he clamored over the canvas-covered wagon to the back, careful not to scrape his great axe against the wagon or ceiling. After a brief scuffle, he called back, "Ready!"
The wagon gave way much more easily, rolling out of the stall into the wide atrium. The humans were awestruck when Misha emerged, pants draped over his four-legged taur body as he pushed the wagon. Even Howel seemed impressed, raising an eyebrow at his new form.
Gwayn was quick to recover, and once the wagon was out, he began removing the canvas with Reed's help. The lighting was dim, but the vibrant rugs still seemed to shine and wash the warehouse walls with greens, blues, and purples. The rugs on top were the smallest, but also the thickest. Fifteen feet in length each, all six of them lay side-by-side atop the fourteen rolls of long carpet underneath. There was a good variety there, with only a couple duplicates among the colors and designs.
With his massive taur body, Misha could easily peer into the wagon to appraise the rugs. "These are very fine rugs," he declared, "but not that fine. I'll give you forty apiece for the top rugs, and fifty apiece for the carpets."
Gwayn shook his head. "Sixty apiece for each. Twelve hundred total."
Misha crossed his arms. "You're not going to haggle?"
"I see no need. I've gone to a great deal of trouble hauling these rugs. I'm not about to sell them at a low price, to be sold at a high markup up north. You're welcome to buy everything at the same price as I would set up north."
Misha remembered again why he set his own prices for his clocks in advance, and left trade negotiations up to diplomats and the court. "You're not exactly in a strong position to negotiate. You've had two of your own guards rob you, and leave you with only two horses to barely pull your wagon—"
Gwayn waved off Misha's arguments. "Yes, yes, and a couple days to leave Metamor to do it. I'm ready to accept a temporary hardship for long-term profit, as I'm sure my men are." The four guards all showed a subtle disagreement with that assessment, Jerrod most of all.
Misha's lone ear twitched. He disliked merchants; their greed was all too often their undoing. But he also disliked troublemakers, which they would quickly turn into if they stayed. He was tempted to just buy the whole inventory and be done with them; he could certainly have afforded it. But twelve hundred was a steep sum for a bunch of carpets, especially as Kyia often provided fine carpets for free. Storage wasn't a problem, but it would just be more trouble for him to go around finding a buyer for them.
Finally, Misha spoke. "Here's my offer. I'll pay six hundred gold for four of the top rugs and six of the carpet rolls. That should be enough for you to get another two horses, food and provisions for a journey north and south, and lodgings in Starven to complete your business. The rest will be up to you."
Chapter 20: Working Things Out [Chris O’Kane]
Gwayn pondered for a moment. "I think that's a fair bargain," he said finally. "We both make the best of a bad situation."
"GREAT!" The fox said cheerfully and extended his hand. The two shook hands.
"GREAT," Reed said "Now we can leave here before the curse takes hold."
"It has occurred to me we might be able to catch your thieves," Misha said. "We can send a message through the signal system to the southern mouth of the valley. Troops there could stop them easily enough."
"You can do that?"? Gwayn said, surprised.
The fox nodded his head in reply. "I'll need a written description of what the thieves look like and what they stole. Also, what did the stolen horses look like."
Misha was as good as his word, buying the top four rugs and six carpets. The rugs were of good enough quality to go in his more exclusive rooms at the inn and the carpets would work well in the halls.
“Pity, I rather fancied that red and gold one,” said Kasaima.
“Well, you can have it, if you want,” said Misha.
“Now just a moment!” Gwayn stepped forward, but Kasaima glowered at Gwayn, who retreated back to safety. Though Kasaima had not moved, to Trey it seemed almost as if something about Kasaima had gone forward.
“You have been paid for the merchandise. What Misha-san decides to do after is none of your business.” His nose widened and he sniffed. “I can smell your greed.” He leered at Gwayn in a way that caused him to pale. “We oni are cousin-kin to ogres. We can smell emotions, and the baser ones are almost like wine to us. I take care to not drink too deeply, but do not think I can be fooled.”
Gwayn and the others made no reply, but both Gwayn and Jerrod seemed to be unable to look away from Kasaima, as if terror and something else kept them still. Kasaima chuckled and turned, which seemed to break the spell–if spell it was.
“I can make the carpet fly within a week. Then I shall return to my homeland and see about setting things right there. I could wish for companions, but it is a long, long way. It took me almost a year overland by the safest and fastest paths I could find. I hope it will be less returning.”
“I’d like to go with you!” said Trey. “I’m not sure what help I could be, but I’d love to see more of the world!”
“I’d like to go too,” said Aldwin, almost to his own surprise. “This mission was well enough, but my contract ended when we got here safely.”
“Mine did too,” said Reed, “I’d like to find out more.”
“But…” Gwayn started, then seemed to think better, “very well. Go your ways! It will be less for me to pay out!” He turned and Howel, Jerrod, and Gallus went with him, though the latter turned to look back for an instance.
“Well, I can tell you all of it in Misha-san’s wonderful establishment. It’s the least I can do for the rug. Trey-san was telling me you’re a maker of mechanical marvels. I might buy one to take back too. A token of the Mysterious Occident.”
Misha chuckled. “I have some ready for sale. There’s another fellow named Lodo you might want to visit. And, of course, other artists here in the Keep.”
Kasaima smiled. “I like you Misha-san! Not a hint of greed–only a desire to help! Most delightful, like a rare attar!”
“What do you mean Kasaima-san?” asked Trey.
“Ah, I smell all emotions little one. As I mentioned, the baser ones are like fragrant wines: enticing and tempting, appealing to parts of me best left in slumber. Nobler ones, however, are like a beautiful bouquet: refreshing and invigorating. Usually, I let them pass my notice, but occasionally it is good to remind myself.”
Just as they were going into the Jolly Collie, a robin flew over. “Misha! We’ve caught a couple horses loose here in the city. Poor things were terrified! They’re calm now, but we’ve no idea who their owners are! Also, there are a couple people going south like an army of lutins are on their tails! Loaded like bandits, and we think they are!”
“Ah! Well, bring the horses here. I’ll send someone to inform Gwayn we’ve found them. Once those two have been stopped, keep them and report to me immediately! They’re indeed wanted, and I want to give them justice!”
The robin nodded and flew off. Kasaima smiled. “If my country’s needs were not so pressing, I would love to stay here. This place is like a story made real.”
***
In the darkness, after he was sure everyone was asleep, Jerrod snuck back to the Collie. He found the boy and frog and then tracked them silently in the night. They’d surely lead him back to his things. He caressed a lone dagger he’d taken. They’d be unable to object to him taking what was his—or anything else they had—by the time he finished with them.
Chapter 21: The Price Of Loyalty [Chris O’Kane, Rimme]
Evening had come to the Jolly Collie. After the frenzied search for answers just an hour earlier, the patrons and innkeepers had resumed their nightly activities. A flutist in the corner played a cheery air as the regulars settled into their ale. The robbery was already making the rounds into the gossip. At least one chuckled at the audacity of someone committing a robbery in an inn owned by Misha. If the robbers had dared to rob the innkeepers themselves... why, the depths of fury that one fox could reach!
Three foreign patrons sat around a table, looking glum despite their recently acquired fortune. With two guards mutinied, two guards resigned, and one guard gone to bed early for the night, it was a much quieter group than had been there just that morning.
"Have you thought of hiring some new guards?" Howel asked as he sipped his cider. His choice of drink was met with an upraised eyebrow by Gallus, but there was no one here to tease him for it. "There are still lots of humans here. Most of them good in combat, from what I see, and they would love to see the world."
"It's bad luck, is all it is," Gwayn muttered into his ale. "First my business partner dies. Now over half my men have abandoned me. All over a bunch of rugs." He sighed. "I knew I should have gone into selling wine instead."
"We still managed to find a buyer," Gallus said. "We are fortunate enough to have met Misha."
Gwayn looked at Howel. "You are right that I'll need more guards. Perhaps I could ask the local patrol master if he has guards to spare. But I'm sure he'll want an extra fee for the service." He shrugged. "Or maybe I can spend the night knocking on doors, asking if they have any sellswords for sale. And what would stop them from betraying me like all the rest?" He swigged his drink. "Some say a soldier's value lies in their training, but in truth, it's in their loyalty. A loyal rookie is worth far more than the fiercest deserter."
"I'm sure it was only fear of the curse that drove Rodrick and Nathan away," Gallus said over his whiskey, his tone measured to soothe Gwayn's tranquil fury. "They panicked. Even loyal soldiers will rout in the heat of battle. They took the only route they knew of. They will be happy to come back with us, once they're captured."
Gwayn shook his head. "I know now what kind of men they are. I'll have no business with men who don't trust me." He sighed. "I was never meant to be a general. I'd like to think I'm a fair manager. Harsh, but fair. Harsh measures are necessary sometimes to keep the world from robbing you."
Howel kept silent in all this, continuing to drink his cider with one eye on Gwayn, and another on the tavern. Gallus stared at Howel, trying to catch his eye and coax him into responding. From his fixed expression, Gallus couldn't tell whether Howel was disinterested in Gwayn's self-pity or disgusted by it.
Gallus finally summoned his courage. "You're still thinking about what the oni said to you?"
Gwayn's fire was rekindled. "Who does he think he is, calling me greedy? I have asked for no more than what was right. I have paid you all fairly and reasonably. There are plenty of merchants in this world who deserve to be cut down a peg, but not me." He looked up at Howel, hoping to find an audience in his eyes. "Do you know that our world as we know it wouldn't exist without money? How many wars have been avoided because it was mutually beneficial to make a deal? And he acts like I am the disgraceful one! How far would you have gotten, friend, if you weren't able to turn your skill into gold, to make shelter and furniture and luxuries from your furs?"
"I've lived a long time without resorting to barter or trade," Howel admitted, "and even today, I dare not take any more luxury than I can protect. I'm used to going where my quarry goes. That means traveling light and using only what I need." He scratched his beard. "In the Giantdowns, there are many who think loyalty can be bought. And perhaps it can be, if it comes with a title and inheritance." He scoffed. "Most men are never that lucky. The only true path to loyalty is mutual dependence — to need each other against a common threat."
Gwayn raised his glass. "Well said. Reminds me of what Rodrick would say." He drank and pondered again, fury placated. "Those two guards I had... Aldwin and Reed. Looking back, I can see that they were only here for adventure. Not for the pay, not out of loyalty. Perhaps that was my mistake in hiring them."
Gallus didn't agree with Howel's speech, but he didn't argue, content that it had quelled Gwayn's temper. "They've served us well up to this point. In the end, all men must follow their destiny."
"Destiny is another word for dereliction," Gwayn snapped. The ale must've gotten to him. Gwayn blinked and sighed. "It's the uncertainty that's most frustrating."
"Have you ever learned to use a knife, sir?" Howel spoke up suddenly.
"Me?" Gwayn was aback. "Not a knife. All of my fighting was done as a boy shaking a stick."
"It is a useful skill that everyone should know on the road. Especially when you are low in numbers. I could teach some moves before we retire. It will also clear your head and be good for the soul."
Gwayn shrank back in alarm. "A merchant has no place tumbling in the fray!"
"A merchant ought to defend his wares. If some bandit were to sneak past your guards for your money or your life, you should have the chance to fight and keep both."
"I'm sure it'll take at least weeks of training to fight a real threat," Gallus said, "but I agree. It wouldn't hurt to learn the basics. And he does know his way around one-on-one combat." He finished his whiskey. "I will ask around, see if I can find some guards around. By your leave."
"We won’t need too many guards," Howel commented. "Two maybe three more."
“Loyal ones!" Gwayn added.
"Have you considered buying cargo here and selling it in the south?" Gallus said. "Shame to send cargo wagons south empty."
The merchant brightened up immediately. "Now that’s a good idea. But what to buy that people want to the south?"
"There is some mining up in the hills," Howel suggested. "But let's walk the market and see what we find."
What they found was a mixed assortment. First, they bought provisions for the long trip and to replenish other supplies and finally Gwayn bought himself a new coat and hat. Surprisingly that left him with some money left over!
From a trapper/hunter he bought several dozen different furs. All of which would sell well to the south. Also, he has several cords of Whisperwood. A tree with a fine-looking gray texture to its wood. "This wood we can sell in the south at a great profit!"
Getting guards was not as easy. Ironically, several of the animal form ones would only go as the south end of the valley and no further. Eventually they found two men; Oison was a tall, lanky red-haired man carrying a bow and arrows along with his sword. Achem was shorter but well-muscled and wielded a large double-bladed ax.
Chapter 22: In the Middle of the Night [Indy]
Gallus thought the two new additions would work out well. He didn’t entirely trust Howel and he wanted to be present when the next guards were chosen. He might disagree with Gwayn on most things, but he agreed that loyalty was key.
He was a bit surprised at Gwayn’s ready agreement to change directions. When he asked, Gwayn smiled. “Howel may say there is a good market in the north, but there’s no need to go that way now. A month or so from now the weather will be best for going north, if we still want. Better fast roads south and remain uncursed than slow roads north. No profit in being cursed.”
Oison and Achem seemed perfect for the trip to the south. “I’ll bet you boys will be glad to get out before the Curse gets you!” Gwayn said as he finalized the contract. The two men laughed.
“Born and raised here in the Keep, sir,” said Oison. “Once was a red-headed lass.”
“Aye! Myself was considered a raven-haired beauty till I changed. Odd how that works out, that men’s looks are not nearly so important as a woman’s.”
Gallus gulped and Gwayn flushed. Howel didn’t say anything but looked thoughtful. “If we’re goin’ south we can start this morning at dawn. Best those of us not Cursed hurry out while the getting’s good.”
“Hmm, but what about Jerrod?” Gallus had found the room empty soon after acquiring their new guards. He just knew Jerrod had gone off to do something foolish, maybe getting himself imprisoned. Still, he hated the idea of leaving anyone behind, even someone like Jerrod.
“He’ll catch up, I dare say,” said Gwayn. “We really can’t wait.”
Once dawn rose, the five set out for the south following the old, but still used, Suielman Road that bisected the Valley. By noon they’d reached the town of Laselle where Gwayn began setting up shop. Oison and Achem seemed well-aware of what was needed, making Gallus feel like he was more ornamental than useful. Howel had stayed out of sight, and Gallus couldn’t blame him. Though the town of Laselle was well-ordered and soundly built, the people were nowhere near as friendly as in Metamor Keep. There seemed to be an underlying paranoia about anyone from the north, especially someone like Howel in furs. It certainly explained why the animal forms didn’t want to go too far south.
As the day wore on, Gallus kept checking to see if any other strangers came from the north. He couldn’t help but wonder what had happened to Jerrod.
***
Euper was not like most towns Jerrod knew. In most towns, this time of night, everyone would be asleep. Here, a number of people had forms that were (to some degree) nocturnal, so there was more hustle and bustle than usual. Still, these types were few enough that they were easy to avert. He hid in the shadows if they came too near and took a swig from his flask to bolster his courage before following his quarry.
The kid and the frog seemed completely oblivious to him. They were in no hurry, chatting away until they reached a nice house. They went in together, shut the door and, after a few minutes, put out the lights.
The door was latched, but it wasn’t long before Jerrod figured a way to undo it. He scoffed and went inside the house, careful to latch the door behind him. He was almost adjusted to the dark when suddenly lights went on!
“Well now, Lincoln, it looks as if we’ve got an unexpected guest.” Jarrod recognized the voice of the boy.
“Indeed Drewbert. A familiar one, though.”
Jerrod’s eyes had finally accustomed themselves to the light, which was much brighter than candles. Around the room seemed to be small orbs of bright light that cast out all shadows. They also lit up a woman standing in a corner. She was wearing a Euper Watch outfit. The look on her face was hard to read, almost as if she were trying hard to conceal some strong emotion. Next to her, as if on display, was all of Jerrod’s gear.
“I’m not afraid of you thieves! I’ve come for what’s mine!” Jarrod flashed the dagger he stole. He expected the woman to faint or, at least, scream. She simply looked annoyed.
“You mean what we won fairly?” asked Drewbert.
“Cheat! You cheated me! There’s no way I could have lost to a mere child.”
Drewbert laughed. “I’m at least as old as you, if not a smidge more. I don’t cheat at cards, especially not against drunks. You’re a good player. You probably could have won if you’d just stayed sober. But we’re willing to give you everything back–and ignore the burglary–if you apologize.”
“Well, Drewbert is willing to give it back. I think we ought to keep it. You need a lesson in proper behavior!” said Lincoln.
“Apologize?! For what? I’ve done nothing wrong!” He tried to appraise what he was facing. A child claiming to be an adult, a toad-thing, and a woman in a uniform. He dismissed her right away. Women didn’t fight. Children were easy to hurt, and beasts died before real men like himself!
“Just about everyone in this part of town would differ, sir,” said the woman. “You’ve been cursing at people, saying slurs, and otherwise been a public nuisance. I’d actually like nothing better than to put you in a cell, but Drewbert persuaded me you deserve a second chance. Gods only know why.”
If Jerrod had been sober, he’d have seized the chance. Even if he didn’t mean it, he could have pretended, gotten all his gear back, and been out and gone. But the brew he’d been sipping all evening had dulled his mind. “I need that gear and my gold to get out of this godforsaken place! I’ll never apologize to you freaks! You beast-men! You she-hes! You–you–you pedophiles!”
With that last, he lunged towards Drewbert, but what he faced was no longer a child of ten but a teenager who seemed to know well the ins and outs of dagger-fighting. Jerrod was disarmed in an instant, detained by the youth and then placed in handcuffs by the woman.
“By authority of Duke Thomas Hassan III of Metamor Keep, I am placing you under arrest for burglary and attempted assault with a knife. You will be given justice soon.”
Jerrod gave a struggle but was no match for the woman. “NO! I need to escape! I need to get out of this place before I’m turned into something unnatural!”
He kept shouting this all the way through Euper, drawing attention–including cheers and jeers from the residence. In their home, Drewbert sighed. “Well, it was worth a try, though I suppose it wouldn’t have ended differently.”
“Not your fault Drew. You followed Eli as far as you could with that fellow. And he wasn’t exactly wrong.” Lincoln shuffled his flippers.
“Oh no! You didn’t slip your special into his drink when I played with him did you?”
“Maybe a little. I wanted him to learn a lesson in humility. If I’m not mistaken, he put a bit of it in that flask of his too.”
Drew sighed. “Well, then he’s getting all this back. You know I don’t like cheating and you know why. Of course, by then, it likely won’t fit, but it could be sold or remade.”
Lincoln sighed. His brother was right. “I’ll be sure to help make amends Drew.”
***
Jerrod had shouted until his throat was sore. He’d been pelted with rotten fruit and jeered at but was unharmed, if humiliated. The Watch woman led him to one of the largest watchhouses he’d ever seen!
The outside had a pair of matching lanterns similar to the one on her tabard. There was a ramp up to a pair of doors, and on the one side there was some large memorial. Inside there was a bird-like figure behind the desk in a similar uniform. It was a sort of gray-brown dappled with white spots, except around its neck, which had a white band. Its eyes were black and there was something off-putting about its beak.
“Oh! It’s him! I was wondering if he’d make it here!” The bird sounded deeply satisfied. “Good work Officer Jenna. What’d you get him on?”
“Burglary at the Knoll brothers’ place. Drewbert thought he could get this fellow to apologize. I didn’t think he would, nor did his brother Lincoln.” Jenna began rifling Jarrod, but found nothing besides his drinking flask, empty now, and the stolen dagger. “I suspect that dagger belonged to someone else who’ll be wanting it in the morning.”
“Very well. No one’s back there right now, so just pick a cell and stuff him in.”
“Alright Sir Prent. You don’t want to mete out Low Justice now?”
“Let him sleep it off and think about it. I’m considering which of the middens to send him to and for how long. As a Follower, I’m disinclined to be too hasty on this.”
“Very well Sir.” She led him into the back and, to his surprise, there were a bunch of neat cells all in rows. There was dim lighting as well, but no bars anywhere. “Number one will do for you. These are all brand new. Latest magic wards, latrine and wash in the one corner, bed you can see.”
He was still figuring it out when her push forced him across the threshold. He felt the binding between his manacles break and immediately attempted to rush her. He was stopped by what felt like a wall!
She smiled. “Not expecting that, were you? These cells are made with powerful warding around them. Those manacles are magic-dampeners and also prevent shape shifting. Well, voluntary anyway. They won’t stop the Curse.”
Jerrod was at a loss for words, and so sat down on the bed, which was slightly more comfortable than it looked. “I don’t understand.” It wasn’t just the developing headache from too much ale: criminals simply weren’t treated like this. They were enslaved or maimed or killed or stuffed into a dark hole where they were forgotten.
“The Duke’s been talking with some of the Followers who insisted that they had the religious duty to visit those in prison and save their souls, if they could. The Lightbringers also seemed to think that above-ground was more likely to produce redemption. So, these rooms were made when we added on to the Watchhouse after the Assault. You won’t starve or be forgotten but you may be browbeaten by a Follower before tomorrow’s over.” She chuckled.
It seemed too strange for Jerrod’s addled brain to understand, so he lay down on the bed and slept. He was woken by the sound of voices.
“Got ‘em by the ruins! Misha ‘imself will want to punish ‘em!”
“We’ve got one back there, two more won’t hurt,” said Sir Prent. “It’s near end shift for me. Confiscate their things and toss them back there.”
A pair of Keepers, one human-seeming woman, one huge one that looked like a winged horse. “This’ll learn you not to mess with us!” said the woman.
“You did ill deeds based on fear: your punishment will soon be clear. Reflect! Repent! and seek reform! Lest you lose more precious thing than mere human form!”
When the two left, Jerrod was able to see who his new fellow-prisoners were. Facing across from him, in separate cells, were Rodrick and Nathan.
Chapter 23: The Left-Behinds [Chris O’Kane, Rimme]
Jerrod couldn't help but feel a bit satisfied that the two had been captured. He actually got up, despite his spinning head. For the moment, all he could do was lean against the wall and get through the hangover he had. Whatever it was he drank, it certainly was potent. What sort of ale did these Keepers drink anyway?
Rodrick and Nathan weren't in a talkative mood either. Rodrick simply sat back on his cot and watched him intently. Nathan fell back on the cot, and within minutes began to snore. Jerrod was usually a deep sleeper, but any hope he had of falling back asleep was ruined by both his throbbing headache and Nathan's loud snoring.
Finally, Jerrod decided to break the ice. "How far did you two get?"
Rodrick actually bolted upright, as if about to fall asleep himself. "Not far. Heard th' first guards behind us about an hour in. Tried to lose 'em by heading towards th' mountains through th' woods, but they knew th' terrain far better than we did. I think they use birds as scouts. We got off our horses and ran for a bit, then we hid in a hole in th' ground. We tried to be quiet, but they dug us out only an hour later."
"You needed another pair of eyes."
"What we needed was Reed," Rodrick whispered, leaning against the invisible wall as if the guards could still hear over Nathan's snoring. "He's th' only one with eyes that can match th' Keepers. Course, stabbing th' stablehand was my mistake. These beast-men wouldn't have taken our jailbreaking so personally elsewise. I should've let the horses trample him instead." He looked around the cells. "Where's Reed, anyway? I haven't seen him since Gwayn sent him on that errand."
"He's not with us anymore," Jerrod said. "He found someone on that errand, a big red giant, who he felt needed his help more than us."
"For real?" Rodrick scoffed. "A red giant at Metamor?"
"I saw him myself after you left. He had white hair and yellow horns, like an ogre. And a pet rat."
Rodrick shook his head. "I've heard many things about Metamor. Their adoption of th' strange is legendary. I didn't think Reed would be such a softie, though." He snorted. "So he'll curse himself out of pity. Shame. I trusted his judgment, too."
"Aldwin stayed behind, too."
"That doesn't surprise me. He doesn't have a heart of iron, like we do. Men like us aren't so easily swayed from their mission."
Jerrod leaned against the invisible wall. It was a strange sensation. Unlike glass, which fogged up or felt cool to the touch, it was as if the air itself formed a solid barrier. "You left me behind," Jerrod hissed.
Rodrick blinked. "You were drunk, and impoverished, and a liability."
"We had a deal. We were going to mutiny together."
Rodrick's eyes darted to the side, checking the shadows in case the prison door opened suddenly. "Some men are born weak. Others have weakness dropped on top of them. The problem with you, Jerrod, is that you don't know when to walk away from a losing hand."
"I am NOT a loser! I was CHEATED!" Jerrod slapped the wall of air, which only served to send a jolt of pain up his arm. "They had a soldier with them. A woman soldier! Instead of taking those two swindlers to justice, she arrested me for trying to take back what they stole!"
"Oh, is that all?" Rodrick leaned back in amusement. "At least you're not in here for murder."
Jerrod glared hotly at him. "Don't you dare bring that up."
"My apologies. We're in th' same boat together, now. We're stuck here until the curses take us."
"You two are stuck here." Jerrod leaned back in his cot. "Gwayn will let the Watch see reason. He'll get me released."
Rodrick's eyes widened. "Gwayn?"
"He has money now that he got a big sale. Whatever else I've done, I've always been loyal to him. You know how much respects people who are loyal to him."
A big grin spread on Rodrick's face. "You really don't know, do you?"
"Know what?"
Rodrick began to laugh. "We heard from th' guards just before they threw us in here. Seems Gwayn found two other guards to replace us. They're leaving for Lasalle as we speak."
Jerrod listened in disbelief. His heart jumped when he heard 'replace'. "No... you're lying. Gwayn knows I'd never betray him. He'd never leave me here! You're lying!"
Rodrick was now openly laughing. "All your thoughts of loyalty to him, and you think he'd respect th' loyalty of a common thief like you?"
"Shut up! SHUT UP!" Jerrod clutched his head and shoved himself into his cot, trying to muffle out Rodrick's echoing laughter.
***
"Here is the common room for travelers and teamsters," the child owner of the Companion Hearth Inn said as he reached the top of the stairs, just one floor above the inn's dining hall. "I understand you both came from the Jolly Collie. Most inns here don't have a common sleeping quarters like we do. Since the last assault, we've rented most of our single rooms here to the people who lost their homes. I hope that won't be a problem for you."
"Not at all, Darion," Reed said, looking around the room. There were several bedrolls and pallets lying along the walls and near the center. Most of their occupants were absent, probably out for dinner or a drink. Only three people were present, a large man facing away from them apparently trying to sleep, and a man and woman huddled together in the corner, thankfully with their clothes still on. "This will do just fine."
How anyone could sleep through the chatter and clanking downstairs was beyond Aldwin. The man and woman looked up briefly and smiled to the two new guests, before gazing back to each other's eyes. Aldwin crossed over to the far wall, where windows overlooked the main street. The lamps had already been lit. High above, in the darkening sky, he could just make out the shadows of various flying nocturnal morphs going for an early evening flight.
"Over there," Darion pointed down the near wall; just behind a column was a door. "That also leads to a communal room. A bit quieter and darker, if you'd prefer not to be facing the street."
"We'll see how this works out first," Reed said quietly, mindful of the present company. He fished out a silver coin and gave it to Darion, who nodded with a smile.
"Dinner service has already started, so feel free to come down once you're situated." Darion headed downstairs, leaving the two former guards relatively alone.
It was a safe assumption that all the pallets along the wall were taken, so Reed laid his cloak down in the middle of the room. On the road, each guard had a blanket and a bedroll stowed away in the wagon's chest for the night. They technically belonged to the caravan driver, though they were commonly stolen by departing guards. In his haste, Reed had neglected to do just that.
"I hope someone else will be willing to share their bedroll, or give up their bed," Reed whispered as he approached Aldwin. "Once they get back from dinner, that is."
"Did we make the right decision?" Aldwin asked quietly.
"Oh. You uncomfortable with the common room?" Reed also kept his voice low, so that neither of the other occupants could hear them.
"No, I meant, was it a good idea to stay here in Metamor?"
"Ah." Reed took out his dagger and examined himself in it. "I didn't have much choice, myself."
"You? But... but you're like, a master scout. Those other guards feared you and respected you for a reason."
"That was envy, not respect. None of them listened to me. All they saw me as was a tool. I don't think the curse is worse than being an outlaw."
"We still know them better than those two strangers we met today."
"Yet you decided to stay and help them. Why?"
"Why?" Aldwin paused. "Because I trusted them more than Gwayn, I guess."
"Then that's all the reason you need."
"But aren't you afraid of the curse?"
Reed set down the dagger. "There's worse things than being cursed. Like not having a family to come back home to."
Aldwin sucked in his breath. "I didn't know that. All I've heard about you is what the other guards said. They called you a thief who would backstab anyone who found out his secrets."
Reed smirked. "They don't know my secrets either. I've never killed anyone, you know. I've stabbed a couple people, scared off a few more, and fled from many, many more, but never killed them. But none of that is a secret. Have you killed anyone?"
Aldwin shook his head.
"Fought off anyone, then?"
"I had training from the village guard."
"That's better training than I got." Reed glanced at the staircase and looked back at Aldwin. "As long as we're here in Metamor, let's agree on one thing. I am not your superior, nor you mine. We are equals. We stick together, we keep no new secrets from each other. Agreed?" Reed held out his hand.
Aldwin shook it. "Agreed." It didn't help the nerves in Aldwin's stomach, nor did it take his thoughts off his own family. He still wasn't quite sure if he could trust Reed. But what else did he have here?
"Now let's go see what they have for dinner."
"Things will look better on a full stomach." Aldwin said.
"I hope the food is good." Reed answered.
A short trip down the stairs took them to the dining room. It was as large as the common room above it. It was lined with a dozen tables that held a large group of people, men and women, young and old and Keepers of several different species.
Just inside the door was a table which held piles of dishes on the end and large platters of food. They were each handed a tray. On it was a plate filled with vegetables and some sort of meat. Along with that was a bowl filled with some sort of liquid which they assumed was supposed to be soup.
They found a spot at one table. They were squeezed in between a tall muscular woman on one side and an equally tall man on the other. The soup was a watery thing that vaguely tasted of potatoes and had some bits floating in that could have been potatoes.
The meat was pork but was actually pretty good and the carrots seemed a bit tough but edible.
Chapter 24: The Companion Hearth Inn [Kamau]
The Owl and Kobold had barely begun searching one of the books when a bat came over to the table.
“Excuse me librarian Mael, I was sent by Master Myrtice to escort someone to a lodging for the night as well as some evening meats.”
“Nyein, I think that will more be up to Talo here. We just started trying to find his homeland and I’m not sure if he would want to stop so soon.”
“Talo can do more tomorrow. Rest and food Talo certainly like well.”
“Very well Talo,” the Owl replied, “I will make a note of where we were in the book, and we can resume from there.”
Nyein looked to the Kobold “Coi geou qe vi lengthy zhin. geou wux rigluin creol ewoig irral.”
Talo’s eyes widened in surprise, and quickly replied “Si shilta itheik shafaer wer ewoig halkvri yth reach wer isepl.”
“Oh, you speak Draconic Nyein?” the feathered librarian said with a smile “That will be very helpful and comforting to Talo I’m sure. You both enjoy your meal. If I am not here when you come tomorrow, Talo the note will allow another to help you.”
“Talo thank Mael Owl. Be back tomorrow,” the Kobold replied as he followed the bat out.
As they left the library and turned up the street Nyein explained the way they would take so that Talo might have a better understanding of how to get back tomorrow. He also pointed out some of the places the Kobold might want to go later in his stay. After about a twenty minute walk they turned down a side street and walked toward a massive three story building.
“Is that the inn?” asked Talo.
“Yes, it’s called the Companion Hearth Inn. It’s run by a very nice couple, Darion and Jami. The price they ask is very low for the rooms they provide but you’ll see that shortly.”
As they drew nearer the size of the place became more apparent. The ground floor was cut stone, well over a man’s height. The next two were typical timber beam construction. From the slate roof sprang four stone chimneys. When they reached a set of double doors the bat grasped the lowest of three handles. Leaning back to add his weight to the pull he opened the nearest door and the pair entered.
A wide hallway led past a set of stairs and to another set of double doors which were open. From within the sound of conversation and laughter could be heard. The light within was subdued but still brighter than most inns the scaled creature had been in. Even though Talo had seen what the people of this place looked like earlier in the day, the varied collection of animal and human forms surprised him.
“Nyein,” boomed a deep voice, “I see you finally made it. I assume this is the newcomer I’ve heard about.”
The source of the sound was a very tall and muscular man with a huge black beard and wearing an apron.
“Indeed, I have Jami. This is Talo. He is not very good with the common tongue but well enough to get by I believe.”
“Good evening,” the Kobold said “Talo know some common, no good Talo be in talk. Better listen Talo be.”
Jami gave a hearty laugh “That’s fine Talo. I’ve learned long ago to decipher a great many tongues and people using them.” Gesturing to his left he continued, “take a seat at that table and I’ll have Darion come to take your order.”
Talo followed Nyein to a round table that was set just beyond the corner of the bar. All the chairs had spacious holes in their backs to accommodate tails which greatly pleased the small creature. He noted that Nyein squatted on the seat rather than sat. The bat caught the expression and smiled.
“With this body it is easier to sit as you see. I have webbing between my legs that can be problematic when seated.”
“Oh?” the draconic like creature exclaimed “Talo no see web.”
“The tailors of the Keep have learned how to fit clothing to many different bodies. These breaches have a deep crotch to them which covers the webbing and helps keep me warm in the colder months.”
Just then a child who might have been no more than ten-years-old arrived at the table.
“Good evening,” he said in a cheerful young voice. “I am Darion and I’ll be taking your order for tonight. Firstly, what will you have to drink? We have beer, ale, cider, or some nice table wines if you wish.”
“I think the beer will do nicely tonight,” the bat replied and then in draconic repeated the choices to Talo.
“Talo like cider,” came his reply.
“Dry, sweet, great or small?” the child asked.
Again this was repeated in draconic by Nyein.
“Talo like small but sweet.”
“Ah, excellent. We have a fresh barrel that just arrived today. Now we have from the hearth tonight some fresh ham, chicken and goose. There is also a good potage with sausage, potato, beans and carrots. As always there is fresh bread, hearth cakes, and cheese.”
The red scaled customer’s mouth dropped open at all the choices after Nyein translated it.
“So much,” he said shocked at the large selection of food. “Talo like chicken and bread.”
“You can have more if you like Talo,” Nyein told him. “Master Myrtice has given me coin to pay for both of us.”
The Kobold gestured with his hands showing the size of each item, “Talo good, one chicken and loaf bread.”
“Ah, yes. I can do that for you,” Darion replied, “I shall fetch your drinks and have the rest sent out shortly.”
The child dashed off and in no time returned totting two tankards and set them before his guests. And with that the pair settled into conversation as they awaited their meal.
Chapter 25: The Best Defense [Kamau]
Talo sat back in his chair, looking down at the now empty plate. He wished he had known the size of the chickens they served here as he was far more than satisfied. Nyein smiled as he finished the last of his meal as well.
“I take it you enjoyed that.”
“Oh, yes.” Talo replied, taking a sip of his cider. “Somewhat too much I’m afraid but still I couldn’t resist finishing the whole bird.”
“As with almost everything else here Jami provides very generous portions.”
The kobold’s ears flicked and turned in the direction of a laugh that had started more as a roar. Giving a glance in that direction he saw a gathering of animal morphs seeming to be enjoying themselves. Of the group of six the majority of them were large. Only a crow and goat were anywhere near a human size. A spotted cat pointed at the other feline, who sported extremely large fangs, who shook his head as he made some gestures, no doubt attempting to explain something.
“Don’t worry about them,” the bat said, hopping from his chair. “When they get together to celebrate they tend to forget how loud they can be.”
“Yes, it will take some time to get used to it. Most places I’ve been I was usually the only one who was animal like in appearance.”
Nyein nodded “There are many things that will take time to acclimate to in Metamor. Excuse me just a moment while I settle the bill.”
Talo smiled as he scanned the room once more. Never in his life would he have expected to see such a thing. As his gaze reached the bar, he noticed a large man who’s clothing clearly marked him as a teamster from some caravan, stared at the kobold. Talo tensed for a moment but then reassured himself that anyone who came to this place must certainly have reason to stare in wonderment. His relief was short-lived as the man approached him with a stern look on his face.
“That’s my chair,” he declared motioning to Talo’s seat. “Get your puny scaled ass out of it.”
The man’s speech clearly showed he had been enjoying the beer for a time.
“Talo no know. Gave seat to eat. Talo finish cider, be gone, you have then.”
“I said move,” he bellowed, reaching for one of the kobold’s horns.
Talo quickly ducked under the man’s arm before snapping his head up. Planting one of his horns squarely in his attacker’s forearm. The teamster let out a cry, blood starting to flow from the wound.
“Why you little lizard, you’ll pay for that.”
He threw a punch at Talo but found only air as the scaled creature had already jumped cleanly over the teamster, bounced off the ceiling and descended behind the drunk, raking fingers down his back, each claw tearing clothing and skin as he fell.
Once again, the teamster let out a string of curses and threats as he turned. Talo evaded by matching his turn, thus staying behind him. The wounded man took a step before realizing that the kobold had vanished. Spinning about and almost falling as he did so, he spotted his foe and lunged.
Talo for his part rocked back on his tail, drawing his legs up until the man was inches away.
Then, the same powerful legs that had launched him over the teamster’s head, thrust forward landing squarely on his chest, causing the drunk to fly across the room, nearly landing on an occupied table.
Gasping for air, he picked himself up. Wobbling to stay upright, he reached to his belt and drew a knife “Now this ends!”
As his arm raised to throw the weapon it never moved forward for the long toothed feline Talo had seen earlier was holding his throwing arm while the bear from the same group was firmly holding his other. As the man refused to drop the knife the sabretooth extended his claws and tightened his grip causing it to fall to the floor.
“Sal, Tony don’t hurt him. The Watch has been called.”
“Sure thing Jami,” the bear said. “But shouldn’t we take him outside before he bleeds more on your floor?”
The words had no more then left the ursidan’s mouth then the man went limp, and they lowered him to the floor. Jami called for a healer and for his staff to bring bandages. The rest of the patrons of the tavern slowly went back to their drinks as aid was given to the man and he was removed.
“Are you hurt?” a voice asked from beside Talo. He turned to see Nyein beside him with a worried look.
“No, I am fine. I hope he is not too greatly injured but I had to defend myself.”
“It will be fine. You’ll have to be questioned by the watch, of course, but you have a lot of witnesses that you acted in self-defense.”
He looked down at the bloody floor where the teamster had fallen and sighed.
“I don’t like needless fights,” he told his bat companion. “Too often troublemakers see Kobolds as easy prey and usually learn the hard way we are not.”
“I would say that with that little display you just gave, no one here would think so now,” he replied, gesturing to a man near the door with a pale blue greatcoat with a pair of braids on the shoulder. “That is one of the watch officers, we’d best go and speak to him. I’ll interpret for you so don’t worry about explaining in common.
The Kobold nodded and the pair moved over to the door.
***
Reed and Aldwin watched the fight at the bar in grave concern. As the teamster drew his knife, Reed lowered his hand to his knife, but did not draw it, as they watched Sal and Tony haul the drunk away. Both turned back to their dinners, but neither had much appetite. They watched as "Tallow" left with his bat friend and the Watch officer.
"That's two inns, and two fights where blood was drawn," Reed noted.
“A terrible coincidence,” Aldwin said.
Behind them, a few tables down, the teamsters grumbled under their breath, as much at the barbaric-sounding lizard as at their drunk arrogant comrade.
"Pay no attention to them," Reed whispered. "In a few days, they'll be gone."