Chapter 26: In Dark of Night, In Light of Day [Indy, Rimme]
The pot of stew at Misha’s inn was carefully tended. Water and oats were mixed in by a sow who seemed to have authority there. People would walk up to her and offer something for the pot, whether carrots, potatoes, wild onions, or something else. She would inspect the ingredients before adding. Some were left by the side for later while others she disposed of in a bin.
“She’s very wise, that woman,” said Kasaima as he and Trey sat for the night. Trey had resumed his full anthro form, feeling it would be rude to eat on the table.
“How so?”
“She’s using her senses and some magic to see whether or not the items are safe to go into the stew. What she can’t use now she saves for later. What isn’t safe she disposes of.”
Trey nodded. “I’m glad I was able to talk with my family. They were getting worried. My mom’s not too happy about me going out east, but my dad thinks the journey will be good for me.”
“I’ll teach you, Reed, and Aldric my language as we go. It’d be considered the Common tongue of the region. I could wish I’d be able to finish the carpet sooner, but the binding spells take time.”
“The Curse isn’t so bad. Well, not for most folks anyway. Can you sense it Kasaima-san?”
“I sense a great deal of magic in this area. It’s been hard to make out anything specific unless I’m close to it. I’ll be glad when we’re a bit further away from this valley; it feels like I’m in the middle of a rainstorm.”
The two went up to the kettle and each took a bowl of stew and some fresh bread and ale before returning to their seats. It looked to be a good night.
***
After their meal, Reed and Aldwin went out for a brief walk for some privacy, and to gain some familiarity with this part of the Lower Keep.
Reed glanced around the rooftops, as if they were the treetops of an urban forest. "Tomorrow we should seek out Kasaima and learn as much as we can about the Eastern Cities. Perhaps some things about the emperor, and the history of his people. I'm not so good at reading, so we could ask the librarian for help as well. And the land will be dangerous once we get there. We should also practice some one-on-one combat."
"Reed," Aldwin said hesitantly. "I miss my family. So much."
Reed glanced at him in the dim lamplight, reading his face. "You want to join those teamsters back there?"
Aldwin shrugged. "Stow away, actually."
"You want to abandon the quest?"
Aldwin squirmed. "I just... I don't know if the curse is worth it. I only came to this caravan, because I'd always been good in a fight and I wanted to earn some money for my family back home. I've never seen war. I've never assassinated anyone. I just want to help people. But..."
"Do you worry you'll never see your family again?"
Aldwin looked up at the sky. "Papa told me that I might not come back home. That's the reality of guardwork, and he was ready for that. But if I didn't come home, then it should be out of bravery, not cowardice."
A lion morph passed them in the street, glancing at the two humans with guarded but friendly eyes. Reed and Aldwin gave him a nod. They'd been at Metamor so many days now, the animal morphs had lost their novelty.
"I just don't know what I'm feeling now, if I'm brave or foolish," Aldwin finished.
Reed shook his head. "Stowing away would be foolishness. You'd never stay hidden long enough, and they'd know right away if someone was taking their food. You know how nothing gets overlooked in such a small caravan." He rubbed his lip in thought. "You gave Kasaima your word."
"Do you think that was foolish of me?"
"Doesn't matter now whether it was or wasn't." Reed stroked his chin, dissatisfied with his own answer. "You must trust yourself to know what to fight for. Only your heart can commit itself to another. Only you can tell where your heart lies." He tapped his chin. "Well, and maybe Kasaima, with that aura-reading of his."
Aldwin nodded. "I know a man like me can't stay home forever. Being a guard means having to tie myself down somewhere else to another. There's just... so much I don't know about the world. So much."
Reed patted Aldwin on the shoulder. "You can help in more ways than you know. Remember, we all look out for each other. You'll always have a family." He looked back up. "And we have plenty of time to learn about the world."
The two of them turned a corner, careful not to lose themselves in the winding starlit streets of the Lower Keep.
***
Night had fallen and the moon was hidden. He made a closed camp on the side of the road, taking care to find what shelter he could among the trees.
The fools had taken too long to let him go. The trail was long cold, and he could not track his quarry directly. Instead, he had to use roads that his quarry would not have dared, taking a way that might not lead him to his quarry in time. He had to reach the demon before it was too late!
He clutched the sword at his side. It had agreed that his evaluation of the situation was true: the Royal Oni were planning to set up a puppet emperor and rule over those of the Thirteen Kingdoms. What the one they sent west wanted was a mystery, but his clan suspected it would be some way of legitimizing the false heir they had.
He could not let that happen! Humans should rule humans! If the empire were to be restored, it should happen through normal marital lines, not some scheme by Oni who could not be trusted.
And this one was headed to Metamor Keep. Perhaps worse than death was planned. There was a Curse of some kind on that place, turning and twisting human forms in ways totally against nature. Did it think to learn the Curse and cast it upon the Thirteen Kingdoms?
Whatever it was planning, it would have to be stopped. Yuèliàng would see to that with his trusted sword, Yuèjiàn!
***
In the morning at the Jolly Collie, Trey and Kasaima went down to breakfast.
“I’ll be starting the charms on that rug today. I think I’d best teach you, Reed, and Aldric some fighting maneuvers. Possibly some magic too.”
The person attending the pot was a child of indeterminate gender. Ze smiled as they approached. What was left of the previous night’s stew was in a small cauldron on a slow simmer. A larger pot of tasty gruel, some bread and cheese, and one more item graced the area.
Kasaima looked at the strange, mushroom-shaped food. “What is this?”
“A muffin sir! I think from Tuffin’s Muffins, though it could be from another of the Royal Order of Muffin Makers. Misha himself approves!”
Kasaima chuckled. “This place has more interesting things than I imagined.” He and Trey sat down, each with a muffin and a bowl of gruel. Kasaima delicately tore off the edge of the muffin’s top and tasted it. His eyes widened and he smiled. “Delicious!”
Chapter 27: The Kobold’s New Clothes [Kamau]
At first light Talo awoke. He tossed aside his sheet and blanket and rolled from the bed, being careful his tail did not drag the bedding onto the floor. Moving to the chair he put on his garments and moved to the window where he could look out upon the streets. As with any sizable settlement folks were already about their daily work. A knock on the door caused him to turn and beckon whoever it was to come in.
“Good morning Talo,” the bat morph said, carrying a bundle with him. “I hope you slept well.”
The Kobold smiled, “I certainly did. I don’t think I’ve ever slept in such a comfortable bed.”
“Another part of the inn’s hospitality. They see that the beds are regularly aired and tended to. At any sign of vermin, they use an enchanted brush to remove them.”
“Nyein, this place never ceases to amaze me,” Talo commented, happy they spoke draconic so he could freely express himself.
“You have only scratched the surface,” Nyein said, laying out the bundle on the bed.
“Master Myrtice had noticed that your clothing seemed quite road worn so he sent these for you to use.”
The newcomer to the Keep mouth dropped open as he saw a shirt, vest and breeches that appeared to be new.
“Your master is very kind and generous,” he told his guide as he removed his shirt and put on the new one.
“Yes, in more ways than I can count but that’s not uncommon for most here in the Keep.”
Nyein paused, noticing that the Kobold was not taking up the breeches but reaching for his loincloth again.
“Is there something wrong?” the bat asked.
“My tail makes it very difficult to wear breeches and with the constant rubbing of my scales seldom last any length of time.”
The apprentice mage laughed, “Ah, but here in Metamor you will find the clothing is designed to work with the body a person has been given. Our tailors have been working on animal bodies for some time now and have found ways around such problems. Tail holes are either guarded with leather or have an enchantment to protect the cloth.”
Talo looked at his loincloth and then the breeches. Setting his old clothing aside he picked up the new breeches and slid them on. After taking a couple of steps and moving his tail about he smiled.
“They work! I’ve never felt this comfortable in clothing like this before.”
“I told you,” The bat replied. “Now put the vest on and let’s go down for some breakfast.
After breakfast Nyein guided the Kobold back to the library where he set to work once again searching for a map or reference that would identify the lands he came from.
Chapter 28: Fate Revealed [Chris O’Kane, Indy, Rimme]
Jerrod must have fallen asleep at some point, since he heard the cock crow somewhere outside his cell. He was feeling better, his head clearer. He made for the toilet and relieved himself. There was an odd sort of basin with soap next to the open latrine, and he saw a lever on it. Pulling the lever let water flow out. It was cold but clear and it helped him clean up after the pelting he’d gotten.
Rodrick and Nathan had yet to waken. There was a bowl of gruel of medium thickness in his cell–put there sometime when he was sleeping. He drank it with some gratitude. The ways of the Keepers were strange to him. Who fed criminals well? Why keep them alive at all? It made no more sense now than last night.
As he finished his breakfast, he pondered what fate might have for him. Working in a midden heap had been suggested. If that was the worst he suffered, he’d consider himself lucky.
Then he felt a strange, tingling sensation in the lower part of his spine. His pulse quickened and he reached back to feel something growing there! When he brought his fingers around, he noticed a slight discoloring of his fingertips as well, and the same, odd prickly tingle. He went to wash them, but nothing he did could remove what was not a stain.
“No. NO! NOOOOOOOOOOO!”
Nathan and Rodrick both bolted upright when they heard Jerrod's scream. They saw Jerrod backed against a wall, staring in horror at a piece of straw on the ground.
"What, pray tell," Rodrick said, "is the cause for alarm?"
Jerrod pointed, his nails noticeably darker as if he'd bruised them against the wall. "T-THAT! I pulled THAT! From my BACK!"
Nathan yelped as his head butted against the invisible wall he'd forgotten was there. From his own cell, Rodrick peered at the straw more closely. It had an unusual coloration, dark brown on one end, cream-colored on the other, with thick bands in between. The ends were tapered to sharp points, like a large toothpick. It reminded Rodrick of some desert tribes that hunted with javelins banded with their tribal colors.
"Why," Nathan said aloud, leaning forward more carefully, "it's a porcupine quill."
"A what? A WHAT?" Jerrod croaked, gingerly pressing his back against the wall, no doubt feeling more of those quills behind him.
Rodrick chuckled. "It appears the curse has bitten you. In a most sensitive area."
"But, but it's only been six days! Six days! It was supposed to be SEVEN!"
"Oh, don't forget that we spent a night camping in th' valley before reaching Metamor. So it's really been six and a half." Rodrick waved it off. "I suppose some of us are more susceptible to th' curse than others."
"This isn't how it's supposed to happen!"
"Would you rather have become a woman, Jerrod?" He laughed. "It suits you. Now you'll always have a set of weapons on you that you won't thoughtlessly gamble away."
Jerrod clutched his neck, pulling down his collar to feel the bare skin that lay there. For now.
"Hey, now," Nathan said. "A porcupine ain't such a bad critter. They're great climbers, and kin see in the dark."
"I don't want to see in the dark or go climbing!" Jerrod collapsed to his knees and fell over. A patch of pinpricks pressed against his trousers. Some of the quills had already grown to three inches. "I wanna go home!"
"Cheer up, Jerrod," Rodrick grinned. "I hear they love exotic pets in Marigund. We can get you a nice cage, a collar, teach you to do handstands. You'll blend right in."
"Rodrick, please," Nathan said, looking back at Jerrod. "Yer not gonna be a full animal, ya know. Unless ya want it. Ya still got yer wits with ya. Stay calm, and you'll git through this."
"Leave me alone," Jerrod said, turning towards the back of the cell.
He was inconsolable. Rodrick had already had his fun, and Nathan had nothing to do but sit back and wait for however many hours it took for the guards to come.
In spite of the noise Jerrod had made it was a long time before the guards bothered to find out what was happening. The leopard looked at them. "What's with all the shouting I heard earlier? Almost made me miss breakfast," he said in an annoyed tone.
Jerrod was sitting with his back to the guard and didn't respond.
Nathan pointed to Jerrod. "It seems the curse has taken him."
The guard looked at Jerrod for a moment. "Ah. That's why he has spike sticking out of his back. "Looks like it's ruined his shirt. Might want to take off the pants before they get shredded."
Jerrod just ignored the zebra.
"Cheer up," the guard said. At least you're still male and not a child."
"I think he'd look good with breasts," Roderick joked and laughed.
"Why are you laughing?" The guard said. "If he's changing you two aren't too far behind! And I bet YOU'LL make a pretty girl." With that he turned and left.
Chapter 29: Dwelling on New Circumstances [Indy, Rimme]
Kasaima and Trey headed towards the Companion Hearth Inn to meet Reed and Aldwin. The two met them halfway. Aldwin was looking at a white feather he was holding. There was an odd expression on his face.
“Good morning Reed-san, Aldwin-san. Did you sleep well?”
“Very well,” said Reed, who was also looking at the feather with some interest. “Though we both got an unexpected surprise this morning.”
“The Curse?” asked Trey. He was perched on Kasaima’s shoulder like usual.
“The Curse,” said Reed.
“I’ve got my belly covered in these,” said Aldwin. “I’m not sure what to make of them, though. They’re not chicken feathers.”
“We could go to the library to find out,” said Trey. “Lots of folks go there when they’re not sure what they’re becoming.”
Aldwin nodded. “I wouldn’t mind seeing it myself,” said Reed. “But would that delay you Kasaima-san?”
Kasaima chuckled. “It will not take long, and I’m still working on the carpet. In fact, I was coming to see if you two wouldn’t mind camping out away from the Keep while I finish. We could buy some supplies, and I could train you away from everyone else.”
“Sounds like a good plan to me,” said Reed. “We need the practice and it’d save us some coin.”
“Are you changing too?” Trey asked Reed as they headed towards the library area.
“Yes. I got quite the surprise when I went to go to the chamber pot this morning.”
“Fur? Feathers? Scales?”
Reed’s face turned dusky. He looked left and right, as if making sure he’d not be overheard and whispered: “Vagina.”
***
Reed and Aldwin looked at the library in awe. Its roof glittering like gems in the sun, its architecture beauty in stone and glass.
“Gods,” said Reed. “No wonder it’s famous!”
Aldwin shook his head, as if trying to throw off some enchantment. The building did not change. “This is almost worth getting feathers.”
Inside the building was equally impressive. A woman was at the desk and smiled when she saw them. “Kasaima-san and Trey, I believe?”
“Indeed. Is Mael-Murie-san off today?”
“No, she’s just inside. She’s trying to help this poor little fellow named Talo. He’s a kobold, I think. As far as I know he was magicked here from somewhere else. Of course, there are other assistants too. I’m Merlia, by the way. What do you need help with?”
Aldwin moved forward. “I’m growing these.” He held up the feather to her. “I’m not sure what type of feather it is, except it’s not a chicken feather. I’ve seen those enough to know.”
“Hmmm...Mael is definitely the one to talk to about feathers. Are you okay, though? You seem to be very calm, which is a bit unusual.”
“You should have seen me when I first found these. Poor Reed. I think I must’ve woken up the inn and half the street. I’m not sure if I’ve calmed down or am just in shock, but doing something is better than just thinking about it.”
“You’ll be okay. I promise. What about you?” she looked at Reed. “Any signs of changes?”
Reed’s face took on a familiar dusky hue. “Yes, in fact.” Even knowing he was facing someone who’d gone through this didn’t seem to help, somehow.
“Ah, you’re like me.” Merlia’s voice changed a bit. It was filled with sympathy.
“Is it that obvious?” Reed felt discomforted. He didn’t like being easily read.
“I’ve gone through it. While all aspects of the Curse are off-putting, the pedomorph one tends to make most people elated while the zoomorph one tends to be admitted, however reluctantly. Gendermorph, though, especially man to woman, tends to cause a lot of embarrassment. I can walk you through what to expect in the days to come.”
“We can see ourselves in to find Mael-Murie-san and Talo-san. Perhaps my senses can help with him,” said Kasaima.
Aldwin took the hint and marched into the main area. He barely got through before the sheer number of books and scrolls overwhelmed him. “So many!” He stood gazing up and around like someone seeing the stars for the first time.
“A trove beyond price. Wealth beyond gold,” said Kasaima. It didn’t take long to find Mael-Murie. She was next to a bat and a small, red dragon-like creature. Trey was reminded of stories of dragonettes.
Mael saw them coming and made the best smile her beak could. “Ah! Kasaima-san! Welcome. I see you’ve got Trey as well. Who’s your friend?”
“My name's Aldwin, ma’am. My friend Reed is out with Merlia talking about …um… personal matters related to the Curse.” His face turned beet red. “I’ve got my own inquiry. I’m growing these.” He showed her the feather.
“Mind if I take it to have a look?” She held it close after Aldwin handed it to her. “Hmm. This looks waterproof. A duck, perhaps? Maybe a seabird. There’s a rather extensive book on feathers here somewhere. I hate to leave poor Talo, though.”
Talo had looked up. “No mind. Nyein helps.”
“I might be able to as well,” said Kasaima. “My kind deals with magic frequently. If it’s permissible, I can try and sense your aura and see if I can find anything in here that matches.”
Nyein repeated the request to Talo, who nodded. Mael led Aldwin off into the stacks. Trey hopped off to watch Kasaima. He could just make out something like a shimmering outline around Kasaima as he examined Talo.
“That is a very odd aura you have. Even with all this interference it’d be impossible to mistake. Let me see.” Kasaima reached into a pouch and pulled out what looked like a clear crystal on a silver chain. He held it between his hands and bowed his head over it, as if in prayer. Slowly the pendant began to circle, becoming more and more energetic until it stopped in midair, pointing.
Trey hopped back on and Nyein and Talo followed as the pendant acted like an unerring guide. Suddenly Kasaima stopped. The pendant was pointing at a section of books. “These. There’s something about them that’s similar to Talo’s aura.”
Nyein pulled out one of the books and opened it. Inside there was a map that looked superficially similar to one of their world’s but was labeled completely differently. Even some of the geological features were off. He handed it to Talo.
Talo’s eyes darted over the illustration and several times he said something low in draconic.
Hearing this Nyein looked over Talo’s shoulder as he now lightly placed a claw on one place then another.
“Home! Home!” Talo exclaimed, placing his claw on a continent set somewhat to the south of a larger land mass. “Names same. Talo certain this my home.”
“But…” Trey said. “These are works of fiction, aren’t they?”
Chapter 30: Straw Duels [Indy, Kamau, Rimme]
Talo’s ears drooped, “Does this mean that I have no home? If this is fantasy, how can it be that I would exist in Metamor? And if it is all fantasy, how do I find my way home if I have a home?”
Nyein quickly translated Talo’s words for all to understand as he had spoken in Dragonic and added.
“I don’t believe it means that you don’t have a home,” Nyein said. “But it does mean that your appearance here is certainly all the more interesting.”
Kasaima shook his head. “Talo-san, he should not lose hope. What is called fantasy is often inspired by things that exist if not within our own plane, but perhaps another plane. There is no doubt in my mind from the connection of your aura to this book that there is something real behind it. The greater question is how one must go about finding it.”
“Can you help him find it, Kasaima-san?” Trey asked.
“I may be able to help. But this may be greater than one I am capable of by myself. The best chance for success would be for Talo-san to return to my own lands where we could consult with others.”
“Talo willing, need to find home,” the kobold replied. “How do Talo go with Kasaima-san?”
“You would join us on the carpet that I am preparing to fly us back to my lands,” The Oni replied.
“Talo ready,” he quickly said looking up at Kasaima-san. “When Journey begin?”
“The plan is to be leaving in just a few days,” Trey said. “Reed, Aldwin and myself will be on the trip as well.”
Talo jumped off his seat and looked up at the red giant, “Talo go, quick pack, where I join?”
“We’ll meet near the Jollie Collie. From there I can lead you to a clearing not too far outside the Keep. I want all of you to bring any weapons you have so you can show me what training and skills you already have.”
Nyein translated and Talo nodded. “Yes, Talo meet there! Nyein go too?”
The bat looked a bit uncomfortable. He replied in Draconic, “I can come with you as long as you’re here, but I don’t know if I’ll be able to come to the east with you. I’d have to discuss it with my master and see.” He paused and looked at Kasaima and said in Common: “I am an apprentice and would need to seek a release from my duties to travel so long and far. It is likely I will only be allowed to stay until you head East at which time I will return to my duties.”
“I understand. Do not fear–I can help Talo-san even if you do not get permission to come with us.”
It didn’t take very long for everyone to get their things together and meet at the Jollie Collie. Reed was looking pensive while Aldwin and Trey, now full sized again, looked eager. Kasaima smiled at them.
“I saw the place as I was coming here. It’s not too far from the Keep, but it’s far enough that we should have some privacy.” Reed had his bow and arrows and a hunting knife, Aldwin had his long dagger, and Trey was bearing a long sword. Nyein carried a staff and a small dagger on his belt. Talo had a bow and quiver across his back and sword with dagger by his side.
They left the keep through Euper and made a right towards the Great Barrier Mountains. Pretty soon Talo recognized the spot as near where he’d been found. It was a large field, a fair distance from any trees. Strangely enough, there was a large pile of hay and an archery target there.
“I made some inquiries as to where to get things to help with training. A fellow named DeMule was gracious enough to help me. He mentioned you trained under him Trey-san.”
Trey looked a bit embarrassed. “Yeah. It’s part of the Keep rules; anyone between ages ten and sixteen trains under Jack. I’m just past that now. I’m decent enough with a sword, but I don’t stand out.”
“What’s the hay for?” asked Aldwin.
“I’m glad you asked,” Kasaima smiled and raised his hands. He started speaking in a strange tongue and the hay pile flew apart and reformed itself into five straw figures. “Your sparring partners, or they will be soon. Go and touch one.”
When no one seemed eager to be first to try, Trey went first. When he touched on it suddenly took his appearance! “Woah! What is this Kasaima-san?”
“A mimicking spell. The dummy now not only bears your appearance but has a copy of your skills. It is not alive, however, and it cannot actually harm you. We usually have something a bit sturdier back home, but these will do for now.”
“Can they mimic magic? Our transformations?” asked Nyein as he went forward, well aware of how convincing an illusion could be. Talo went with him, reaching out to his strawman.
“Only seemingly. Everything about them is an illusion. It will seem real, but they cannot do harm. They will not actually change shape or size or anything else. I plan to craft them some wooden weapons tomorrow, but for now try to attack them as well as you can.”
Aldwin and Reed had each touched theirs. Their visages even had their changes — tufts of hay-feathers on Aldwin's, thick hair for Reed. “This is so weird,” said Aldwin.
“Yes, it’s a bit disconcerting, but it’s really the only way to get an evaluation of your prowess. Remember, don’t hold back–they won’t! Ready?” They all nodded. “Then, begin!”
The dummies begin immediately, Nyein’s taking into the air, Talo’s leaping forward, Reed’s nocking an arrow while Aldwin’s and Trey’s simply charged forward with their weapons!
Though initially surprised, Talo and Nyein quickly responded to their counterparts, dodging and jumping. Nyein readied some low-level spells to cast at his counterpart even as it started lobbing magic at him. Trey and his counterpart clashed swords, though since his dummy’s sword was only an illusion, his went through and put him slightly off balance.
Talo’s mind set snapped, and his eyes narrowed. Mirror image or not this was his enemy. He snatched his bow from his back and a small number of arrows. A moment of surprise came on him as the enemy ran sword in hand while Talo preferred a ranged attack first. His first arrow came very close to his foe but a quick lash of his tail shifted his body enough for it to miss. Taking a high leap in the air he spun and loosed an arrow at what he hoped was Nyein’s clone. As he descended, he switched to his sword, prepared to parry as soon as he would land.
Aldwin had never encountered magic of this type, and he stared in wonder at the hay dummy's lifelike movements. The dummy was already in mid-swing when he realized this was no demonstration of Kasaima's power, but of his own. He raised his arm to block the attack with a shield that wasn't there and was struck by his counterpart’s dagger – or what would have been a dagger if it had been real. After striking the effigy went stock-still and toppled over.
Reed was also surprised, but he had already braced himself for combat. He drew his bow and arrow, then leapt aside from a shaft of hay, barely dodging the woven arrowhead. As if hunting a rabbit, Reed took aim and fired. He missed his effigy's leg by only a few inches. His hay opponent darted off to the side, crouching low to the ground even as it nocked another arrow. Reed had never had to think before about how to fight off another scout; usually, a fight between enemy scouts ended before the other even knew there was a fight. He drew another arrow and aimed, even as his opponent aimed.
Nyein switched into bat form, swooped over top of his counterpart just as he banked hard to avoid an arrow. His flight was brief and meant only to give himself better position. Changing back to his most human form he lobbed a spell that caused his clone to crash into the ground. Talo’s battle turned into a series of attacks and counter attacks. It ended when an opening allowed him to lash the foe with his tail, followed by a sword to its neck, ending their fight. Both reverted as Aldwin had. Reed and his counterpart managed to shoot one another with an arrow at the same time while Trey fought his to a stand-still.
“Enough!”
Trey’s finally reverted, and he panted from the exercise. “Wow, I’m better than I thought!”
Kasaima chuckled. “You all did excellently on your first tries. I know fighting yourself is disconcerting, but it is a good way to evaluate.”
“What do you mean ‘excellently’? I just got stabbed by myself!” said Aldwin.
“That’s true, but it also means that you could have done it. Remember, these are capable–temporarily–of what you’re capable of. I’ll try to adjust the spell a bit so the visages aren’t exactly yours. Even when used at home, it’s very disconcerting. The only advantage is we find out very quickly who’s capable of attacking without hesitation.”
“Isn’t that a good thing?” asked Trey.
“Yes and no. It is good to have someone who can put their feelings aside and focus on the battle at hand. It is bad to have someone who can mercilessly attack their comrades in arms with no hesitation. Now, pick up your partners and we will begin again.”
They practiced until lunch, when Kasaima called for a break. Trey and Reed had learned how to beat theirs and Aldwin had matched his. Aldwin panted heavily. He had expected to be sweating heavily, but the feathers on his chest were dry, even if his whole body was burning. There was only a slight clamminess on his arms and his brow, where the sorest muscles hadn't been touched by feathers. Reed was also sweating terribly, causing his shirt to cling to his chest, his lean frame showing the slightest hint of a bosom.
“After lunch, we will try some meditation techniques for magic. Nyein-san, I think you are already familiar with this?”
“Yes. I can help Talo, though.”
“I know a few too,” said Trey. “Not much, though. I can only do very minor stuff.”
Kasaima smiled. “But even a little is more than none. This simplifies things a great deal. If you would be able to help Aldwin-san, I’ll help Reed-san.”
“I can. The meditation isn’t that hard.”
“Wait, we're going to learn magic, too? Real wizard magic?” Aldwin gaped in wonder. After seeing Kasaima bring a hay dummy to life, he could believe this ogre could do anything.
“That depends on how patient you are to learn. For today, we’ll mostly focus on just trying to gather the local energies. Hmm, but before we leave, Talo-san, would you mind helping me? I want to see if I can find exactly where you entered this world.” Nyein, as usual, translated.
“Talo help! Talo want to go home!” He eagerly walked up to Kasaima, who touched him on the shoulder.
“Stay with me.” From a pouch he brought out the crystal Trey had seen used earlier. “Hold this.”
Talo held it, and Kasaima held Talo’s claw. As before, Kasaima closed his eyes and focused. A slight glow seemed to envelop Talo and the pendant began to swing. Finally, it stopped still in midair and pointed.
Nyein watched intently as the Oni worked his magic, watching every aspect of what was taking place.
“Follow it slowly.” Kasaima kept contact with Talo and the two moved forward slowly. They kept moving until the pendant suddenly pointed down.
“Yes! Here! Talo remember here! No no how got here, but yes!”
“Move a little, please Talo-san.”
Talo moved where Kasaima pointed. Kasaima then focused on the ground. He bent down and gently removed the ground and grass until he revealed a smooth, flat, circular stone surface. The surface was a dull gray.
“What’s that?” asked Aldwin.
“A Gate,” said Kasaima. “It’s a Gate between worlds. Long forgotten and neglected.”
“Likely a remnant from the Suielman Empire.” Nyein commented, examining it with his mage sight.
“Go home? Talo go home now?” There was a desperate, plaintive tone in his voice.
Kasaima touched the surface of the stone and closed his eyes. After a long time, he rose and looked at Talo sadly. “The Gate has closed. The magic is gone, for now. I do not know how long it may take it to reopen.”
Nyein translated and Talo’s whole body drooped. “Not go home? Never go home?”
“I didn’t say that. I now have a much better idea of the forces that brought you here. With others, back home, we may be able to open one for you.”
Talo perked up after that. “Talo wait.”
“Once we’re back at the Keep, I’m going to report that to Master Myrtice. I’m sure he and the other guild-masters will be very interested. It might be quiescent now, but it’s best to keep an eye on it.”
Kasaima nodded. “I was going to ask you to do just that. Gates like that are usually very old, their secrets lost with the secrets of the runes. Still, as far as I can tell, it’s dormant and will be for some time to come.”
Chapter 31: The Long Road [Indy]
The road was one that once linked the Suielman Empire and that of the Zhōngyāng Empire, when they both still existed. It was mostly an abandoned way now, though some travelers were still going on it. The worst part wound through the Vysehrad Mountains and was more a trail for animals than travel. Still, it was usable. Trade happened slowly, but it happened.
Yuèliàng wondered how close he was getting. It seemed like it was taking forever and if he couldn’t reach the Valley before the monster left, it would surely destroy all he held dear! A scream drew his attention; a group of bandits had surrounded a woman and her children!
He rushed forward to help them. ‘It seems everywhere there are those who want to take that which is not theirs!’
“Give us yer money and no one gets hurt!” said what was likely their leader. They wore animal pelts that were half-cured and had rusty-looking weapons, though the leader’s short sword looked good enough.
“But I ain’t got no money!” The woman and her children huddled together. “We was just on our way to town ta earn some!”
“Well, if not yer money, yer daughters will do. Been some time since me and me men had fun!”
“You leave my sisters alone!” One child called out and rushed the lead bandit. He kicked the boy hard enough to send him flying a few feet back.
“That’ll learn the bastard, if he’s not dead. Now then…”
Before he could do anything, he found himself unable to move! Vines wrapped him and his men as tightly as any rope. “Carrion dog! You and your ilk are unfit for the name human!”
Yuèliàng had acted as fast as he could but hadn’t been able to stop him. He first attended to the fallen child. The child was unconscious and had a nasty wound on his head. He was still breathing, though.
“Is poor Elim dead? Me boy was so brave!”
“No. He’s badly hurt, though.” Yuèliàng looked to his sword. ‘Please keep those thieves bound while I heal.’
‘This rabble is no trouble. If the child dies, I will strangle them all.’
Yuèliàng nodded and placed Yuèjiàn into the ground. He concentrated, using his arts to reach within. Yes, there and there! An internal wound that needed mended. The head wound looked worse than it was, but he also used his energies to staunch that and to ensure there was no head trauma. When he finished the boy took a big breath and opened his eyes.
“Who–who are you?”
“My name is Yuèliàng, though you may call me Moonlight. This is my sword, Yuèjiàn whose name means ‘Moon Sword’ in your language.”
“Are ye a magician from Marigund, Sir Moonlight?” asked the woman.
“No, I’m from the eastern coast of this land. I am on a mission to hunt a monster who went this way. But why are you and your children alone on this road? Where is your husband? Have you no uncles or brothers?”
“Ah, me husband’s been gone these many years and the children and me ‘ave been doin’ what we can to get on. Me father’s sent me a stipend but now wishes me to return ‘ome to Braasem, and it’s a fair ways from Llarth.”
“Which are we closest to madam? I’d like to turn these over to authorities.”
“We’re closest to Braasem. Perhaps you ought to tie them regular-like?”
“Yes, that’s a good idea. Let me get my rope.” It wasn’t long before he had the bandits tied and had taken their weapons as well.
When they reached Braasem, the woman helped him find someone to turn the bandits into. He got a substantial reward for their capture. “What would be the next town north of here?”
“Giftum, a fine place to visit. Aye, there are places further north of it too, but do not be keepin’ too long to the north road or you’ll end up in a curst valley fulla unnatural things!”
“I’ll keep that in mind, thank you!” Before he left, he gave most of his earnings to the widow woman, who blessed him.
***
Giftum proved to be very interesting, with lots of hustle and bustle and a fair amount of traffic up and down the river. From it, he went further north to Komely and then a place called Midtown.
Yuèliàng was considering who to ask for further directions when a small trade caravan caught his eye. Three guards were standing around an empty wagon, next to a splendidly-dressed merchant and an austerely-dressed man in furs. It was the latter that got his attention.
“What did I tell you? We got a fine deal and all five of us will be well off until next time, eh?”
“I suppose,” said one of the guards. He was a homely-looking guard with shabbier armor than the others, a reflection of long years on the road. “But if it’s all the same, I feel I need to part ways. Oison and Achem seem well-able to take care of you.”
“HMPH! If you’re still feeling guilty about Jarrod, Gallus, don’t,” said the merchant. “He was a drunk and a fool and no better than those other two deserters!”
“We left him behind to be cursed.”
“Hardly! They won't hold common brutes like him for long. Why, he’s probably on his way south as we speak.”
“Excuse me, I couldn’t help but overhear, did you say cursed?”
Gallus looked at the man addressing him. He was oddly dressed, and his eyes seemed very odd, almost pinched at the edges. “Yes, the Curse of Metamor Keep. I’d have thought everyone’s heard of it.”
“Oh, I have. I have something to do in that place. How far is it from here?”
Gwayn took over. "Not far at all. We were just up there a couple days ago. Just watch out for the curse,” he said. “If you stay much longer than a week or fortnight you’ll get one of three curses. One changes your gender, another turns you into a youth, and a third will make you into an animal-man.”
“Ah! I see. I don’t intend to stay very long. In fact, I’m looking for something odd.”
“Plenty of odd things in that Valley!” said Gwayn. “The oddest we saw was this big red ogre with yellow horns. Walking around, drinking with the animal people. Nasty, and judgmental too. He had the nerve to call me greedy! Why, I never cheated a man in my life!”
Yuèliàng didn’t need Yuèjiàn’s warning to know the man was lying. “Ah, thank you for letting me know! I’ll be sure to keep a look out!”
As he left, Gallus looked after him and wondered. Oison and Achem also had odd looks on their faces, though Gwayn didn’t seem to notice anything, and Howel was, as usual, trying to stay out of sight.
Both Yuèliàng and Yuèjiàn rejoiced. Soon their mission would be over! They would slay the evil oni and return home. Justice would be served!
Chapter 32: Jarrod’s Justice [Indy, Rimme]
Jarrod was deeply uncomfortable. Though the quills had not spread far, his shirt had been pierced in the back, where they were sprouting out of his pants. Roderick had lost interest in teasing him for the time being, and Nathan didn’t seem to have much to say, though he did keep looking at himself when he thought Jarrod wasn’t looking.
The zebra on duty came back. “Alright. Time for you to face justice.” He pointed to Jarrod. “Your pride isn’t going to keep those clothes on, you know.”
“I’ll keep them on anyway, until I can’t. I doubt I’ll have much longer to worry about it anyway.” The guard did something outside the cell and then entered it. For one wild moment, Jarrod considered tackling him and fleeing, but then reconsidered. It would be pointless. Everything was pointless.
“Come along peaceful-like. Those bands of yours will keep you from running far.”
“Ha! He’s just another beast like you! Where would he go, a circus?” Rodrick jeered.
“You think you're so clever, hmm? Well, Misha Brightleaf is on his way for you two. Your friend here just made the proverbial ass of himself. You two have upset Misha, and I would not want to be in your shoes for the world.”
Nathan gulped and Roderick blanched as the zebra led Jarrod out. “I’m Officer Ulford.” He paused and looked at the desk. It had a snake of some sort at it. Jarrod was not sure of the being’s gender. “Taking the prisoner for mean justice, Dame Aspasia.”
“Very well. His crimes are so trivial I wonder they didn’t deal with them last night.”
“According to Sir Prent he was drunk out of his head. Drewbert and Franklin won’t press charges. I won’t repeat what Officer Jenna had to say.”
She let out a hissing chuckle. “I can well imagine what Officer Jenna had to say.” She motioned and the two went outside.
It was a fair day. The warmth of the June morning should have been cheering, but Jarrod was not comforted. The quills on his back were increasingly uncomfortable. When he tried to stay too far behind the zebra, he felt his cuffs pull him forward. There was no escape.
He wondered if he’d be hung or if his head would be cut off. He couldn’t complain about not having a good last meal. But they passed the center of town and there was no scaffolding set up. Nothing there but people selling their wares, as if there were no criminals among them.
They walked out of the town and kept walking. ‘Am I going to be executed like an animal? Is my body going to lay in an unmarked grave as carrion?’ Jarrod felt hollow inside. All the anger he’d had yesterday had evaporated. He was going to die somewhere in the wilderness. ‘No, I’m already dead. I’m not even human anymore…’
Despite his thoughts, he was still mostly human. The spread was slow along his body. He did lose his shoes as they tramped along the side of a river on a well-worn path; his feet became paws and lessened the discomfort of being barefoot. His misery didn’t quite stop him from noticing the beauty of the river and wood or the humans and animalmorphs fishing and playing along the side of the river.
He was so distracted that he didn’t notice Ulford stop until he bumped into him. “What is your problem?”
Jarrod looked up and blinked. The zebra didn’t sound so much angry as annoyed. “What do you mean?”
“I’ve been watching you a while now. The only thing you’re lacking is your own personal raincloud. The folks at Barnhardt’s will wonder what I’ve done to you.”
“Done to me? Why would they care? Why do you care? What are you up to?” Some of Jarrod’s fire returned and his quills pricked up. “Are you saving me for some arena?”
“Sit. You need to learn some things and learn them fast or you’re going to be an even more miserable wretch than you already are–if that’s possible!”
Jarrod crossed his arms. The magical bracelets wouldn’t let him tarry, but they didn’t seem to restrict his arm movements. He wondered if he could try for the guard’s weapon. Ulford seemed to sense what he was thinking. He took his sword out and placed it into the ground.
“Go on. Give it a go if you think you can!”
Enraged, Jarrod picked up the sword…and immediately found his hands connected at the wrists, the sword’s weight moving him towards the ground until it was back inside the earth and he was stuck to its hilt. “What the Hells!”
Ulford sniggered. “You really think they’d leave out that? You so much as think of hurting someone with those on and you’ll find yourself stuck until someone releases you.”
“And you won’t?”
“Not yet. You’re not sitting but you aren’t going anywhere soon either. Listen close; this place doesn’t have a death penalty like they do in some places south. Not unless we have literally no other choice. If we need to, we exile someone for a while. Most of the time things are settled without much need for courts or such.
“We do give out labor for crimes, but not too long. Usually it’s work in the middens, which is disgusting but not terribly dangerous. I’m bringing you out to a place called Barnhardt. It’s the name of a lake and the name of the castle by the lake and the name of the person who lives in the castle by the lake. And for the love of the Aedra do not call Barnhardt a newt!”
“Got it. Great. Can we go now?”
“You going to behave yourself like a sensible person and not get stupid notions like ‘attack the guard with his own weapon’ again?”
“No guarantees. Since I’m becoming a freak anyway, whether you kill me or not my life is over anyway, and it don’t matter how I stop breathing.”
“Hm. Should have guessed that was what’s eating you. You might think that now, but it’s really not that bad. Now let go of my sword.”
Jerrod found his hands forced off the sword and Ulford grabbed it and put it back in its scabbard. It took a minute for Jerrod to recover, once he did, he followed Ulford down the trail. “We’ll be there by nooning and I’ll be turning you over to Brother Bruin. They’re building a monastery out that way. You’re going to help.”
“Do I get a choice?” The itchiness and prickliness seemed to be all over Jerrod now. He could feel his doublet tearing along the sides, where the quills were still slowly growing.
“What else do you have?” There was a quietness in the question that was more terrifying than a threat.
Jerrod shuddered as the realization hit him. He couldn’t go south. Even as he thought that, he felt the push of some more quills growing in. He could run away and live like a porcupine out in the wilderness or run around madly attacking people until someone put him out of his misery. Neither option was appealing.
“I’m not a thief, you know,” said Jerrod.
“Do tell.”
“I was cheated at cards. Some kid and a toad.”
“Drewbert and Franklin, and Franklin’s a frog, not a toad.”
“What’s the difference?”
Ulford sighed. “Look, folks who get turned animal learn a lot about their species and tend to resent someone calling them by the wrong one after they’ve been corrected. Honestly it seems to go along with the changes.”
“Why?”
“Unsure, but maybe you can figure it out after you finish becoming a hedgehog.”
“I’m turning into a porcupine not a hedgehog!” Jerrod yelled. Then he stopped and blinked. “Wh... where did that come from?”
Ulford chuckled. “Like I said, it seems to go along with this aspect of the Curse. Trust me, before I changed, I’d have called zebras ‘striped horses’ and not feel the sudden urge to correct people on it.”
“And why would I trust you?”
“Because I’m the one holding the keys to your manacles?”
“Is that all?”
Ulford sighed. “Look, you say you’re not a thief. Did you mistake their house for yours, then? And whereabout did you get that dagger that you tried to poke a hole in Drewbert with?”
“I was cheated! I wanted back what was rightfully mine!”
“Drewbert never cheats. Never.”
“Everyone cheats! Everyone lies!” Jerrod sucked in his breath. “You wouldn’t understand. You’ve never had to work for anything.”
“You’re wrong there. I’ve spent three years working on the Watch, and even longer in patrol duty. It’s dangerous and often thankless work, but it’s good honest work.”
“And you get someone to pay your lodgings and fix your weapons and pay your taxes, all for free.”
“I pay my taxes and get a salary like everyone else. The rest is called being part of a team. We look out for each other.”
“Helping each other cheat.”
“You know why Drewbert never cheats? His father was a rich landowner in the south, until he lost everything in a game of cards. He even lost his own life when he showed he’d been cheated. Drewbert saw and so did Franklin. They fled and ended up here. Drewbert thought he might learn cards and win back his father’s lands through gambling. He learned how to play and how to cheat too. But then something happened–I don’t know what–and he somehow realized that he’d become as bad as those folks who cheated his father. So now when he plays, he doesn’t cheat.”
“And how do you happen to know all this?” Jerrod didn’t believe it, but it was a fascinating story.
“We were on patrol together. Me, him, his brother and some others. You get to know the folks you patrol with; not much else to do when there’s no danger.”
“That kid is in the Watch?”
“Drewbert’s not really a kid; he just looks that way because of his Curse. And, no, just regular patrol duty. Everyone does it sooner or later, to keep the Valley safe. You’re trained in weapons and scouting techniques and such. It’s not usually too dangerous unless there are bandits or lutins or poachers.”
“Hmph. That’s another thing. It’s so that a man can’t catch a rabbit without the royals making a stink about it. Your duke get in a miff about his personal meat going in some poor family’s pot?”
“Well, our duke’s main meals consist of oats, barley, carrots, and other vegetables.”
Jerrod stopped for a moment. He’d heard that the Duke was turned into a horse, sure, but never thought about what that entailed. Now it was all starting to hit him. “Oh Hells. So he’s not eating it. And I take it his court aren’t, either?”
“Some do. Not everyone’s an herbivore. And the Curse tends to play funny tricks with what a person can and can’t eat. Some of the felines are obliged to eat meat because literally nothing else gives them nourishment. Some other felines can eat all the stuff they did as humans.
“Anyway, there is some poaching, but not usually from folks in the valley. The poaching laws we have are to ensure there’s enough food for everyone by not over-hunting. Besides, gods know the carnivores here are paranoid enough when they go out hunting; they don’t want to accidentally kill someone they know.”
“Hmm, yes, poaching from outsiders is a different issue.”
“More so than you can think right now. Exactly how much do you think your pelt would fetch?”
For a couple minutes, what Ulford said didn’t register. Then Jerrod’s eyes opened wide and his mouth dropped. All color left his face. “They couldn’t! They wouldn’t!”
“They could and they would. You said before you were a freak. Enough folks down south think that. Some think we’ve lost our human minds too. Others don’t care, except when we’re in full form it makes it real easy for them to bag us and sell our skin down south.”
Jerrod tried not to think of this. Surely nobody would spring for a porcupine pelt? Compared to a zebra, certainly. But pelts were still pelts, and those big quills of his could be valuable on their own. Why did he just think of himself as a porcupine? He was human, dammit!
Ulford nodded. “Come on, we can talk as we go. You’ve had some run-in with the law before, haven’t you? Something unjust, I think.”
“I don’t have to tell you anything.”
“No, you don’t, but it might help. You won’t say you're a thief even when caught in a burglary with a stolen dagger.”
“I borrowed it! To help negotiate!”
“Now, now, keep your quills on. You were also drunk out of your head, or weren’t you?”
“I don’t drink that much,” Jarrod said, much more quietly.
“That’s better. I don’t know what you were drinking, but some of our brews are pretty potent due to our animal sides not always being affected like humans are. Then again, a lot are weaker too. You just had rum luck.”
Jarrod laughed. “‘Rum luck.’ Yeah, that describes it. Luck to lose at cards, luck to get cursed, luck to be talking to a guard who’s still not killing me. I still don’t understand why not. I’ve tried to kill someone, I’ve stolen, and I’m not being hung, dismembered, or shoved somewhere dark and forsaken. Am I being enslaved?”
“No. We don’t do that here.”
“I’m not exactly volunteering to work. If it’s not slavery, what is it?”
“Community service. Anyway, it’ll help keep your mind off your changes somewhat and maybe even help you in other ways. Sir Prent suggested a week there, and once it’s over you’ll be helped out. During, of course, you’ll be fed and such.”
He became so occupied with his thoughts, he hardly noticed the rest of the walk, right up until they reached a lake active with fisherfolk along wharves out into the lake. To one side there was a castle, one of its towers descending into the lake. To the other, there was a view of mountains and forest, and another bunch of people working on a large building taking form. He bumped into Ulford’s back again. “Watch it will you!”.
A bear in Follower robes, who’d been helping with the construction, turned and looked at them. “Ah, welcome! To what do we owe the honor?”
“Not exactly an honor as much as a prisoner. I’m putting him in your care.” He went behind Jarrod and Jarrod felt the manacles fall off; he rubbed his wrists. “Sir Prent left a note recommending you. Personally, I’d have sent him to the middens.”
“I’ll keep him here. I doubt he’ll cause much trouble. Poor fellow looks rather put out. Was it necessary for him to come in this pitiable state?”
“He wanted to wear his old clothes until he couldn’t. I need to head back to my duties at the Keep.” Saying this Ulford changed to full form and galloped back the way he came.
The bear looked at Jarrod with sympathy in his eyes. “I’m Brother Bruin,” he said and then chuckled. “I believe Eli had a rather interesting sense of humor when it came to me. What’s your name?”
“Jarrod,” he said. With Ulford gone and the magical cuffs removed he could just run. He could do anything. Anything but leave the valley. Anything but be normal. He felt the nettlesome prickles and began to cry. It was the first time he cried in years, and he couldn’t seem to stop.
Brother Bruin gently held him close. “You have a weight on you, won’t you let go?”
He was becoming a porcupine. Soon no one could know it was him. What did it matter now who knew? “I was a merchant, once. I killed a man in self-defense. He was the son of some minor noble. The next thing I knew I was on the run. I haven’t stopped running.”
“I see. Please, come this way and let’s talk. Life is not so bleak in this valley. I think you’ll find that this is a new beginning rather than an end.”
Jarrod shrugged, wiped his eyes, and followed the brother towards the construction. What else was there to do?
***
The door to the cells opened and a fox in leather gear walked in. He had a wicked-looking axe. “Hello Nathan. Hello Roderick. I am Misha Brightleaf, and you’re about to have a very unpleasant time.”
Chapter 33: An Unpleasant Man [Rimme]
The harsh glare and piercing words had an immediate effect on Nathan, who paled and stepped back against the wall, but Rodrick stood up straight and looked him in the eye with a thin smile. "So you are Misha Brightleaf. I knew it from the moment I saw that black axe. Whisper, you call it? Almost as famous as you are."
From the moment Rodrick started speaking, Misha stared at him with eyes cold enough to have frozen Oblineth. Roderick could only smile. Finally, a challenger worthy of conversation. With the great Misha Brightleaf! Goading Jerrod was a fun hobby, and Reed had his share of secrets to unearth, but none of his companions had any true willpower for a test of wills. The stone-faced Misha was a mere cobblestone road to him, daring him to keep on talking, to test the resolve of the legendary fox-man.
After Rodrick finished his short speech, Misha's glower deepened. "Consider yourselves lucky that you are not on her receiving end."
Rodrick tilted his nose up a smidge. "She seems to be a runic weapon, isn't she? Quite rare. Three thousand years old, if I'm not mistaken. It must be quite an honor to wie—"
There was a sudden black blur, and the magic barrier exploded. It happened so quickly, with such volume and brightness, that Rodrick couldn't stop himself from flinching. Weakness! Rodrick quickly tried to recover but was halted by the sharp edge of the black axe, less than an inch from his eyeballs, where Misha had swung it straight through what had been his invisible cell wall.
"You attacked innocent people of Metamor," Misha hissed. "If any of them had died, your head would be a smear on that wall right now. You have no right to speak to me as an equal. You are under my protection now. And I can easily rescind that. Do I make myself clear?"
Rodrick opened his mouth and felt it quiver. ‘Stop losing! Stop losing!’ But whatever witty rejoinder he could have made, died on his throat. Never had he been at the mercy of someone so clearly skilled in combat, with so heavy an advantage, so unmoved by his attempts at flattery.
Would Misha seriously kill him? There was no official death penalty in Metamor, as far as he knew. But this was Misha Brightleaf, hero of a thousand tales. He might get away with it.
In any case, there was nothing to be gained by aggravating him. Sometimes survival was more important than pride. Rodrick swallowed, forcing some color back onto his face. He lifted his eyes to Misha's chin, but no higher. "Yes, milord," he croaked.
The fox's gray eyes remained fixed on him for several long seconds...or was it minutes? Finally, he looked aside, body motionless, to the cell guards who had been staring from the exit. "My compliments to the mage who built these cells. Very solid construction. I'll see that the mage is reimbursed to replace it."
"Uh, yes, Misha," the woman stammered.
"I believe you were going to shackle them?"
The winged horse clopped a salute and entered Rodrick's cell, carefully stooping under the axe to take Rodrick's motionless hands.
"Foolish words for a thug to make! And to Misha Brightleaf, whose enemies tremble and..."
"Give me a break," Rodrick whispered with the slightest of eyerolls.
The horse gripped his wrists a bit tighter as he clapped the manacles on. "Mercy only comes to those who seek her grace. Remember your crimes have brought you to this place."
The chains sagged on Rodrick's wrists as the winged horse released him. The weight was unexpected; they should have been much lighter from the way the horse had held them. As they swayed, Rodrick tried to get a feel for their weight. He imagined swinging them at the horse, and pivoting on his heel so that the chains slammed upon the famous axe that could cleave metal. The weight suddenly deepened, breaking Rodrick's thoughts. Moments later, the weight lifted as if suddenly immersed in water. Magic! Of course. Metamor was not short on magic. All it would take is a passive aura reading and a shift in elemental temperament to create such weight-shifting chains. Curses! If only he had the talent for magic, instead of merely hearing about it from others.
Nathan had already stepped out from his cell by now, hands bound, face contrite, knees shaking. Weakness! But it was fine for Nathan to be weak, for he had enough strength to keep his mouth shut. Rodrick cursed himself again, and twenty times more, for flinching before the axe. Was he no better than a child to flinch from a weapon? He should have been ready for it. This Misha was more dangerous than he'd been led to believe.
"Heh, you certainly shut him up!" The female guard laughed. "You should have heard him earlier, Misha. That man's been ripping on animal morphs since this morning."
Misha stood there casually with his axe, yet appraised both prisoners with a fine eye, hand still firmly on Whisper, waiting for a sudden movement. Truly, there was not a single part of his body not under total control!
"Both of you are heading to middens duty in Euper," Misha said. "I advise against running. It will do you no good. There are even fouler places where you could be headed." He focused his eyes on Rodrick. "You'll both be working for at least a week, or until I am satisfied by your change of heart. Do you both understand?"
"Yessir," Nathan said promptly.
"I do," Rodrick said. "Sir," he quickly added at Misha's stare. Weakness! He wasn't used to showing humility. Unless some viable means of escape presented itself, there was nothing to do but go along with this punishment. He had to earn this fox-man's respect. He had to be stronger! All he had to do was endure a bit of humiliation.
"One last thing," Misha said, raising an arm. The horse quickly reached behind the exit to fetch a short coil of rope. "Just to make sure you don't get funny ideas." With the armed guards still watching Rodrick, Misha bent down over Nathan and tied one end around the manacles.
"Don't be mad at him," Nathan murmured. "He ain't bad people. 'e's just independent."
Misha made no response. He stood and pulled the free end through Rodrick's manacles. "Now let's get going."
Misha started off, pulling Nathan along and forcing Rodrick along with them. Curses! Did he really have a week to spend like this?