Interlude: The Dragon Soul-Link (2)

As Meli walked beside Morag, she glanced toward the dragon following them and Kestrel drifting along behind the dragon. She sighed as she realized she would have to explain to Morag what had just happened between her and the bull dragon.

“Do you feel odd?” she hazarded to Morag.

“Not really.” she replied casually. Meli glanced at her gaining a raised eyebrow from Morag. “Should I feel odd?” she returned softly.

“Something has happened that you should understand.” Meli started hesitantly. “You are now soul-linked to a dragon and he is following us.” she explained slowly. Morag looked confused before turning to look behind her. As her eyes met the dragon’s, it began prancing and happiness flowed into her mind. Her eyes returned to Meli’s. “It is a very rare thing for human to be chosen by a dragon to soul-link with.” she told her.

“When did this...how did this...why did this...happen?” Morag sputtered. It was truly spoken loud but received a grunt from the bull dragon marching behind her. Meli giggled softly.

“When you showed him respect.” she answered the head-woman. “I believe he saw you fighting for his brood and spoke in their favor that earned you this connectivity.” she continued her explanation slowly. “It will cause many changes in your life since you and him are now theoretically one being.” she added softly. A quick back glance from Morag to the dragon gained a grunt and quick double stamp.

“Icebreaker and myself are bonded?” Morag asked slowly. “I do not know why but that is the name that appears in my mind for him.” she continued shaking her head. “It is similar to having a second series of thoughts running beside my own.” she attempted explaining.

“You will learn to adapt to that distracting aspect of the link with Icebreaker.” Meli replied with another soft giggle. “Arry could explain it better but he and Skydancer would not remain healthy in this icy atmosphere.” she rushed ahead. “He is the only other human and dragon soul-linked pair we of Atlantis know existing.” she explained quickly. “Being the leader of his brood and you the leader of the village could be another reason he thought it wise to soul-link with you.” she suggested pensively.

“I am not the first you have met being bonded with a dragon?” Morag asked bluntly. “I shall go to him and ask him directly then.” she concluded quickly. Meli could see the resignation in her eyes.

“That would not be wise since ice dragons are phenomenal on land and in water but extremely weak flyers.” Meli warned her. “And this situation is very different since Arry and Skydancer soul-linked at a much younger age.” she continued redirecting Morag’s thoughts. Morag glared back at Icebreaker getting a whimpering hiss as the bull dragon’s tail dropped to the ground. “He just told you mentally that it would be a bad idea to try visiting Arry and Skydancer, correct?” Meli remarked when Morag’s eyes returned to the front. She nodded in silence her face slightly paler than before. “He will help you understand and learned about the soul-link you now share.” she admitted.

“How will this change me?” she asked directly. Her body was stiff, her words formal but well selected, while she began accepting this fact placed upon her.

“Wounds will heal faster, your strength will increase quickly, and you will have assistance when dealing with problems by being of two minds.” Meli listed off easily. “Other abilities or changes will be yet to discover depending on how strong the soul-link becomes.” she continued. She held back some thoughts especially about the extended lifespan until Morag was sitting in her office hut. “It is possible that you will gain the resistance to cold that all ice dragons have.” she hazarded slowly. They had nearly reached Morag’s hut with the dragon carefully following without damaging huts or citizens of the village. The children stared in wonderment at this massive dragon acting like Morag’s well trained hound.

“It is a lot to accept and understand.” the head-woman replied. As she reached the door of her hut, she glanced back at the dragon that moved to lay by her hut without blocking the pathways. He gave her a small grunt before his head came to rest on his front clawed paws with half closed eyes. “He does understand my thoughts direct at him, yes?” she added in a whisper. A small puff of icy mist coated the area by the dragon’s muzzle while Meli laughed softly as she nodded. Sert was there looking at the dragon but said nothing after Kestrel had spoken with him. He held an open hand to the dragon which it sniffed but did not move.

“Kestrel has gone ahead and I can keep the dragon company while you talk with her Lady Mekiliean.” he stated to her in Atlantian. Meli nodded as her and Morag entered the head-woman’s hut. “You may ignore this dragon’s peaceful presence since he will be here more often from this day on.” he announced to the gathering crowd. The children were the first to move forward cautiously to hold their open hand to the dragon’s nose so him may know their smell. Within the hut, Meli motioned Morag to sit as she avoided looking at her.

“Included with everything I have stated is that your lifespan is linked with the dragon’s lifespan.” she informed her quietly. This gained her a confused look that slowly shifted into fear. “You now will live as long as he does.” she corrected her. “But that will only give you another two hundred years or so because he is about five hundred years old.” she added calmly.

“That is insane!” Morag interjected back. “Two hundred years is another three generations of the villagers.” she continued. Her face paled as her mind fully understood what was being revealed.

“It is not like you are immortal, you simply age slower than others.” Meli told her. Morag’s hand shook as she kneaded them together on the desk still pale faced. “If wished you can be taken to Atlantis but I believe that would be refused by your soul-link.” she continued forward. “He is the head of his brood as you are leader of the humans within this village.” she explained slowly. “Neither would wish to leave unless a trustworthy replacement would be in place for both of you.”

“That will be difficult task for either of us on our own.” she replied softly. “But this might cause the villagers and dragons to become closer which could have more soul-links occurring.” she stated. Meli’s face dropped into a pensive fear. “If it can happen with me, it could repeat itself because the leaders of both groups are bonded together, yes?” Morag added looking directly at Meli.

“It is a possibility but extremely low.” Meli grudgingly admitted. “Soul-links between humans and dragon is rare enough that you are the second one that has ever existed.” she explained slowly. “This binding of the leaders could open a possibility that has never been seen before.” she continued slowly. She shook her head. “I will request a squad of researchers to come live here monitoring the situation since it is truly unique.” Meli added. Morag looked at her and a soft half chuckle, half giggle escaped her.

“I believe Icebreaker sees this village wide soul-link as a good idea.” she admitted between her soft laughter. “The hunters are approaching!” she exclaimed already rising from her seat. “I must explain this to them and prevent problems.” she added heading for the door. Meli slowly followed to find Sert standing between the dozen hunters and Icebreaker. The children and a handful of villagers had also moved to prevent any violence between both sides.

“He is not a threat to anyone within the village.” Sert told the hunters. “Their illness has been cured with the miners no longer force-feeding them penguins.” he informed the villagers gathered including the hunters.

“His words are truth!” Morag bellowed at them. Icebreakers head rose, turned slowly, and glared as coldly as Morag did towards the hunters. They grumble but most turned to walk away. The handful that remained held their position but did not sheath their weapons. The leader of the hunters step forward towards Morag gaining him a soft warning growl from Icebreaker. “Hush, Icebreaker!” she snapped at the dragon. That odd whine repeated itself as his tail tightly wrapped around his body. “He is with me and will be here often because we are now bonded.” she announced. Her eyes remained locked with the lead hunter. His step faltered followed by a quick back step as his eyes went from her to the dragon and back. “I will explain all of it tonight as we feast together, my villagers and our dragon friends.” she added. A purring like sound escaped from Icebreaker at these words. She glanced at him shaking her head.

“I will accept your words, Lady Morag, leader of our village.” the head hunter stated quietly. “Returning to a non-violent relationship with the dragons is the best outcome for the village.” he continued. A little smirk formed on his face. “Now can you stop hiding your rank and wisdom to the village?” he added. A soft chuckle rolled out of him as he turned, motioning the other hunters to follow, as he walked away from the scene. I cheer erupted for their head-woman before most of them drifted away. Only the children remain taking turns to pet Icebreaker large head while giggling happily.

“Anything more you wish to inform me about?” she asked Meli. A smile had formed on her face as her eyes rested upon the children playing peacefully with the dragon. “If not, I have a feast to arrange for this miraculous event.” she added softly. Meli giggled back at her as she shook her head.

“I believe Icebreaker will help you learn anything else you need to know.” she admitted smiling at her. With a curtsy to Morag and Icebreaker, Meli moved to Sert side as they walked towards the shore to find Kestrel sitting in a meditative state. He sat by the longboat that waited to return them to the Herald.

Kestrel's Journals: Penguins Are Bad For Dragons (17)

As the Herald lay anchor in a small protected cover with only one small settlement on this southern peak of the world, we scanned the barely visible grouping of hamlets. The population would be barely cresting the hundreds. The few icy peaks in the distance would be the ice dragons’ lairs and a hidden field of ice and snow would be their mating grounds.

“There!” Sert called out. He pointed near the shore at a lone jutting wide spear of ice.

“And there!” Meli called back. She pointed toward a secondary lone ice spear. Before we departed the ship in a longboat, we had noted a dozen of these icy protrusions that were signs of a potential attack. The most clearly visible was a spire of ice sitting near the center of the village. Our longboat floated slowly towards the fishers’ shore by the closest spear of ice and best landing site for us. No one was there to greet us which was more worrisome as our feet touched the snowy sandy shores.

“This is wrong with how docile ice dragons are naturally.” Meli commented quietly. She clutched at her medical bag’s strap while staring at this first piece of evidence. “I believe we should examine the potential attack sites before speaking with the witness’ and town’s headman.” she suggested hushed. I nodded my head in silence agreement.

“I will arrange our lodgings in the village and meet you at that central spire of ice.” Sert informed us. He had already gathered the rest of our gear upon his back leaving me carrying my chest pouch and Meli her medical bag. As he walked away, we moved closer to the icy unnatural spikes. Clawed up timbers, soil, and icy snow seemed to be be pushing back from where the large ice shard sat with arm-sized slivers in the pathway between them. As we moved slowly from spear to spear, we noted the same odd pattern and gathered a handful of children observers.

“A dragon did that!” one of the boys stated to us.

“Did you witness it?” I asked calmly. I had crouched to be closer to their height as the group of children had formed a half circle behind the one who had spoken. I ran a hand along the furrows in the ground while waiting for his answer and to hide the real reason I had crouched.

“Aye!” the boy interjected. One or two of the other children nodded but remained silently a few steps away from his back. “It shuddered and clawed and made a funny sound as he spewed that ice chunk with a lot more pieces.” he told me when I glanced back at him. I glanced at Meli to assure she had heard this statement before turning to nod at the boy. Meli strolled over to the boy with a smile on her face.

“Thank you!” she told him. She pressed a few coins into his hand as she continued.”If any of you, or your friends, have witnessed the other dragon spots, we would appreciate your story of it.” I only half hide my chuckle as the boy’s eyes grew wide. She had assured us all the information we would need to solve this mystery much faster.

“Shall we proceed?” I asked Meli while rising. She nodded still smiling as the group of children followed us giving nearly matching stories in multiple voices. Our small contingency of helpful children grew as we neared the first hut of the village. We had already concluded that these were not attacks but signs of malaise that should be solvable once we discovered the source. Sert was waiting by the central spire of ice embedded into the side of the village stone.

“The village’s two lone guards stated that the dragon belched it out as it shot upward in a backward flight.” he told us as the children stood in a half circle behind us. A choirs of affirmations came from most of the dozen children to back his words.

“A very long and powerful burp?” Meli suggested. She had a half smile on her face. I nodded back.

“We have a case of sick dragons.” I concluded. With a happy sigh Meli nodded her agreement. Sert looked from her to me and back before nodding his head. “The headman will think us crazy from this explanation.” I added softly.

“Yes, but could he argue the words of our esteemed dragon hunter and our expert dragonologist?” he remarked with a smirk. The gasps and exclamations from the children had us turning to face them as they decided which was the hunter and which was the dragon expert. At least the reaction from the children hid the groans that escaped Meli and myself before we had turned. “May you guide us?” he asked the children that instantly formed a line for us to follow to the headman’s larger hut. The children we past fell in behind us as we marched with Sert in the lead and myself at the tail of our trio.

The woman that received us at the door of the hut quickly ushered us in while thanking the children for helping us find our way here. She was polite and friendly but a hint of nervousness vibrated her voice as she explained that the headman was injured and unable to meet with us. She informed us that she was his wife and would relate any information to him upon whatever matter we had to discuss with him. She stood by a box-like desk smiling as she waited for our reply. Her face clouded for but a moment as we mention we were the delegation sent from Atlantis to assist with their ice dragon problem.

“With my husband injured, I have been filling his shoes to the best of my abilities.” she repeated with the same casual calmness. “I can handle this business in his stead.” she added more directly. I derisive snort of a laugh had my companions turning to face me. They leveled dark glares at my odd and impolite reaction. The woman had stiffened ready to debate her right as his wife but my raised hand stopped her speech.

“Lies never become an intelligent woman.” I stated plainly to her. The hint of a blush and her shyly looking away from my eyes proved she understood what I had read from this small exchange. No special abilities required when a wife is too calm about an injured husband. “There has not been a headman in this village for a very long time while you are the head-woman we should deal with directly.” I explained quickly. Sert tilted his head before nodding. Meli closed her eyes as I read her reviewing the short conversation from this woman. She sighed realizing she had missed the signs that were very clear.

“True.” she interjected calmly. “Now what do you have to tell me?” she added business like. She had moved to sit behind the desk while motioning us to take seats. My companions moved to the desk with Sert standing behind the main chair while Meli sat in the secondary one. I took my place with them sitting facing this woman directly.

“You have very sick ice dragons.” I stated without wasting time. Her shoulders relaxed but did not slump as a relieved sigh came from her. She smiled in earnest towards us at my direct words.

“I am glad to hear a reasonable answer.” she replied. “Ice spires without injuries seemed to not be any form of attack to me.” she continued without us explaining our judgment in this matter. “I am Morag, head-woman and widow of the former headman.” she concluded. She held out a hand to me. I shook her hand while making introductions.

“I am Kestrel, sent from Atlantis with my guard Sertian and healer Mekiliean, to investigate as you requested.” I told her.

“Very well received you all are.” she answered shaking each of our hands in turn. “Now, how can we solve this problem and return peace to my village?” she asked. She was taking this matter seriously forgoing any other formalities to hinder our work.

“We have no solutions until we discovered what is the source of this ailment.” I admitted. A sadness filled her eyes.

“Once we know the source, we can take steps to either create a cure or find a natural solution.” Meli added in quickly. “We will visit their territory to continue our research.” she continued. Morag seemed to wilt at this.

“I pray you hurry since most of the hunters are considering activating a more permanent solution.” she returned slowly. I could see the pain this caused her and her nervousness hinted at how quickly those hunters wanted to solve it themselves.

“Sert, delay them without being seen.” I ordered quickly.

“And we go cure the ice dragons.” Meli interjected before I could say it. I nodded with a smile on my face.

“I thank you in advance for any assistance you can give us.” Morag stated before Sert had left the hut. She was already moving to throw on a thick fur mantle as we moved towards the door. I glanced at her as she seemed to dress to leave with us. “I must inform the hunters helping to delay them from heading out to hunt dragons.” she told me.

“And our silence about your situation here is our thanks for you seeing wisdom and reason.” I returned. We left the head hut to rush in different direction with our missions and duties firmly in mind. The land seemed to understand our need for speed as it pulled back to give us the fastest route to the mountains hiding the dragon caves. We passed more evidence of sickly dragons increasing in amount the closer we got to their lairs. As we reached the plateau, we still had not discovered the source but now a stench hit our nose before we saw the ice bull dragon sitting guarding the entrance of their caves. It roared once as the miasma wafted over us stronger. A loud series of burbs and convulsions made the large dragon shutter as it still glared at us. I ignored the stench of rancid dragon breath, striding forward while Meli held back affixing a breathing mask to her face.

The attack was swift and should have been terminal to any normal human. The glacier spat out from the dragon landing squarely upon me and around me. I did not dodge or avoid the attack, allowing it to encase me in ice. I did sense the sudden shock and fear mixture of emotions flooding Meli’s mind before I moved bringing the dragon’s attention back to me. A crack sounded clear in the air before the ice shattered into shards of ice from the vibrations I formed in my throat. To onlookers, I had not stopped and barely paused between my steps moving me directly at the ice bull dragon. It attempted a swipe with it’s large clawed frontal paw which I grappled easily holding it safely in my gloved hand. As I released slowly the absolute cold of deepest empty space, sparkling frost spread along the scales of it’s clawed hand as it howled in pain it’s never faced before.

“Taste the coldness of my domain and understand.” I howled back at it. “We are here to help and not harm your kind.” I continued in a softer tone. My face was inches from the bull dragon’s massive maw. The stench became stronger and more distinct to my assaulted nasal passages. Penguins was the cause of this indigestion issue for the ice dragon who rarely if ever eat that for meat.

“Penguin indigestion.” I yelled back to Meli.

“I do not think we have enough peppermint leaves to cover even a single dragon.” she replied as she now moved to join me. “And none of the local flora nor fauna would be of help.” she added. Even with the face mask in place, she breathed through her mouth to avoid the rancid stench.

“What about a mineral version?” I asked calmly. I still held the claw in a tight grip but had pulled back the cold I had been forcing him to feel. “Calcium or sodium based carbon deposits might do the trick since it is part of their natural diet, correct?” I suggested as we both planned a quick effective solution. I looked back at her seeing her standing with her eyes closed and feeling her earth senses vibrating into the ground surrounding us. Even with her abilities limited, I sensed she was using these limitation more effectively in her search for a mineral cure.

“We have a limestone veins sitting near the village and stretching out under it.” she announced with a sigh. “It explains why the ice dragons have been more often in the area of the village.” she continued. I sensed she was still searching if other sources of limestone were available nearby but it seemed in vain. “They have been trying to solve this problem themselves but something must be preventing them.” she added mildly annoyed.

“Finding why they have been feeding on penguin should put all this to rest.” I replied softly. I knew this could be a mistake from those that were shocked seeing dragons close to their village but why decide to feed them penguins. “Can you start pulling the vein closer to the surface for them to claw it out?” I asked fearing this would be beyond her limited abilities this far from Atlantis. “I am going to find their penguin provider with the help of our big friend here.” I continued casually. I release it’s claw and patted the side of it’s massive face. With grumbles, the bull dragon nodded. It slowly flexed it’s claw as the flakes of frost fell away from it.

“I will try but miners might be a better solution in the near future.” she answered haltingly. “I will ask Morag if they have miners within the village to assist me.” she concluded before rushing back towards the village. I allowed myself another mild abuse of my powers by bathing the ice numb claw of the dragon in liquid fire to return it to proper use quicker.

“Shall we be off?” I asked the ice bull dragon. I walked beside him noticing the traits of this creature. From his size and coloration, I knew this was the lead dragon for those residing here. Their wings would rarely be used unless they were trying to rush back to their lair preferring to walk on all four like oversized dogs. Our path curved wide but did slowly turn back towards the outskirts of the village. We stopped at the treeline looking towards what could only be a mining operation. As one of the other ill dragons moved to collect limestone from a stockpile present, humans rushed out to shove penguins into their mouth until they backed away. This was a cycle that only made the ice dragons getting sicker while the cure was sitting being protected by humans that may not know what they are causing. As the second dragon got feed penguins, the bull dragon beside me growled and hiss as it started moving forward. I moved to be diagonally in front of him.

This is when I spotted Meli and Morag rushing toward the mining area. I felt the anger and power shooting from Meli as a spear of limestone knocked the penguin carrying men aside to reach the third dragon’s maw and start healing itself. Her blood lust was empowering her but she held it in a tight controlling grip with her protective nature. Morag was already pulling out an axe charging at these men to chase them away from the limestone stockpile. Other limestone spears broke through the icy surface by the other younger dragons that waited to attempt getting limestone for their bubbling tummies. Morag screams of anger and vicious slices had the miners running into the mine shaft leaving the ice dragons a chance to feed on limestone. I increased my pace to join into the fight as the one that ran into the mine returned with help to push back the dragons with barrels of penguins. I heard the roar of the bull dragon as it stomped behind me to help his brood. Between axe swings from Morag, my fists, the bull dragon’s tail swipes, and Meli moving the ground beneath the feet of the dozen miners, we quickly had them all captured while the dragons feed on the limestone they needed desperately.

“Your dragons should be back to normal and peaceful soon enough.” I informed Morag as we stood guarding the captured miners. “If this hunger for profit continues, you will be dragon food.” I told the miners. The glare Morag gave them showed that she agreed to my threat upon them. “As long as the limestone is set aside for the dragons, anything else pulled from the rock is acceptable to be claimed.” I stated to Morag.

“Keeping their greed in check and our dragons healthy is a good plan.” she returned quickly with a broad smile.

“The penguins feed to them made them sick.” Meli explained, She had joined us while the ice dragons feed and returned towards their lair in silence, except the bull dragon. It remain within a respectful distance from us but still was not leaving in his pacing at the edge of our group. “The limestone helps them digest which is what they require presently.” Meli had continued while I noted the activities around us. “Limestone is part of the natural diet which includes fishes and trees but not penguins.” she concluded with an exasperated sigh towards the miners.

“All this was caused by these miners looking to profit from selling the limestone for constructions northwards.” Morag grumbled. Her icy glare at the miners felt colder than what the dragon’s claw had felt in my hand. “Now you will mine until all the dragons are cured and keep them a supply ready for their daily meals.” she ordered them. “If you fail, you will be place in a dingy and set loose on the flow.” she concluded. This outcome for their failure meant a long painful death sentence. At her words, the ice bull dragon moved forward toward us but it’s eyes were locked on her.

I must say honestly that I was amazed at her reaction to having a massive bull dragon looking at her as it approaching. She turned to see him nearing us. She smiled closed mouth to it before performing an odd half curtsy and half bow at it without losing eye contact with him. I felt no fear coming from this woman as she stood facing a dragon that moved until it’s nose was nearly touching her. The straggled gasps from Meli matched my shock as we both felt the magic essence of the dragon reaching out to touch Morag’s spirit. We were witnessing a miracle that was truly rare even for us. We felt the soul link bond that formed between this bull dragon and Morag. She would be the second human that has ever soul-linked with a dragon.

All the benefits and problems associated with a soul-link with a dragon rushed back into my mind with memories of Arry and Skydancer. Their lifespans being matched making Morag age slower meaning she would live for few more centuries. Either her or the dragon could die causing the other to die as well but she would live as long as the dragon. The biggest difference here was that she was not a child like Arry, and her dragon was about five hundred years old unlike the barely fifteen year old Skydancer. The ice bull dragon would protect her and, in turn, protect the village knowing she would protect the him and his dragons.

Our return to the village was an odd parade. Meli and Morag walked ahead with the bull dragon following them closely while I drifted along behind. I noticed Meli glancing back while she spoke with Morag. A small shock glance from Morag at the bull dragon had him prancing and wagging it’s tail. He acted like a dog that had found his perfect owner. I did not laugh holding my mirth tightly around me as I followed. A few more glances from both Morag and Meli with the bull dragon releasing soft growls or dancing for Morag was a wondrous sight. Sert looked but hid his shock as a dragon pranced behind Morag to lay by her hut while Meli and her entered to discuss about what had happened behind Morag’s back. I informed him I would return to the shore to meditate until Meli was done instructing the newest dragon soul-linked human. He did look worried but remained to escort Meli to the shore where I would be waiting. In true, I needed to prepare myself for what I faced next with the sealed gate that I needed to recharge for the next millennium, and what lay trapped behind that monster’s chamber.

Redpath's Journals: Meals, Plans, and a Potential Ally (19)

I watched them leave before scrambling up and along the wall to drop into the garden in a safe spot. I did vaguely heard Kestrel speaking as my feet bounced along the top edge on the wall and landing by the bench Meli sat upon. With a quick salute to Lord Kestrel, I took my place beside Meli. I glanced toward Deas wondering if having one of the Prince’s friends joining us was odd but would not question Kestrel’s decision.

“Chichi did add a glass and plate for you Deas.” he remarked to him. “Join us.” he continued. Deas stared at us but did not move from his place by the door. “I truly doubt the chef would want you starving on such a wonderful day.” Kestrel added with a chuckle. Deas jumped and moved after a few more minutes of resistance. He sat quietly staring at his feet on a newly formed bench between Sert and Kestrel. This was shyness that could not be allowed to remain in place even if he remained silent.

“You don’t speak much.” I remarked to him. I moved to him with a plate and a glass for him. He looked slightly shocked as our eyes met. “Just sip it slowly like wine and it should not affect you negatively especially if you are eating as well.” I explained to him. I had gotten a sniff of this sake and knew it was strong but not overly problematic with food. I gave him one last closed mouth smile before returning to my perch beside Meli. He gave everyone a quick nervous glance but his heartbeat slowed to a more natural pace. He did remain silent but did eat and listen to the conversation around him.

“When are we escaping Cole and Royal duties, oh great Royal Advisor?” Meli asked with a soft giggle. The hushed laughter waved around the inner walls of the garden.

“I’m surprised you did not call him Flower this time.” Sert remarked with a smirk at her. A softer laugh echoed as Meli and Kestrel scoffed at the comment.

“Need you two start this again?” he retorted calmly. “We have the issues with the Ice Dragons once you explain what is supposedly happening, Meli.” he stated to her. “Cole’s dislike of cold weather will keep him away from us.” he concluded awaiting her reply.

“Word from the village’s headman speaks of passive Ice Dragons attacking the village and surrounding areas.” she informed us quickly. “But no injured villagers has the headman requesting a research mission.” she added with a half shrug. Kestrel nodded his agreement to this odd request.

“Visiting this village will also give me a chance to verify on a small personal matter near that area.” he returned calmly. I could see in Sert’s and Meli’s eyes the excitement of a new adventure but I also knew, I would not be going with them this time. My duties lied in watching over the events in Atlantis during their absence.

“A personal matter?” the two excitedly chimed in.

“Yes.” Kestrel replied with a sigh. “I must check a sealed gate.” he continued slowly. “You may accompany me part of the way but this is a duty only I can accomplish.” he informed them directly. “Royal duties should be dealt with tomorrow morning, allowing us to depart within a day or two.” he added softly.

“Have you recovered enough for this?” I asked in a purring whisper to him. All eyes turned to him with a hint of worry on their face. Kestrel smiled brightly at them before replying with a nod and words.

“I will be fully recovered from my mistake in that village before we leave here again.” he assured us. I held back the jubilation at these words unlike Meli and Sert that relaxed instantly. I mostly held my tongue allowing them to discuss their plans and what they required for this adventure into the frozen lands to the south. My orders to remain in Atlantis did eventually come but I had already knew this was an adventure for the senior members only. As we parted after the meal, I assisted Deas to place the empty platters, plates, glasses, and bottles upon the handcart for him to return it all to the kitchens.

Lord Kestrel decided to tour Atlantis while his team prepared their items and gear for exploring the southern reaches of the world. I followed but did not stay in the shadows at time walking beside him. We did not truly talk as he made sure Atlantis knew he was still open and available to them with his new role of Royal Advisor. He did appear fully recovered but was this still in part what had happened between him and Lacona, or the actual power of Atlantis healing him. We returned home to be ushered into the dining hall where the fully household retinue waited for us to join them. The celebratory feast was a lavished mixture of different meals from Atlantis and with a small medley of worldly delicacies from all over. The friendly but derisive snaps back and forth between Meli and Cole were held within the edge of annoyance but no true angry words exchanged. Cole did glance half in surprise that I was included with the entourage but as I ate with dignity he seemed to mostly accept my presence at the table. Sert bantered about possible sparring sessions with Cole which I had already witness a few in the past that seemed very pleasant for both of them. I did hazard a request to join their sparring sessions if they allowed the house cat to join. Sert agreed easily while Cole gave me another curious glance but did not outwardly refuse my request.

They talked long after the empty plates and platters were removed from the table while much lighter drink was still flowing slowly. As they retired for bed, Meli asked me where I planned to sleep this night. I simply told her I would be in the garden in my favorite perch for my rest. She looked at me worried but did not offer an alternative place to spend the night. With all of them safely in their rooms, I was sat upon the wall of the garden looking towards the Royal Enclave of Atlantis. The light of the Heartstone of Atlantis bathed the area with a soft bluish-white light giving it a permanent twilight environment over night.

My feet hit soundlessly upon the road as I moved towards the central core of Atlantis. I could not be sure I was not being silly or foolish by listening to a pair of foxes but I felt compelled to do this. I did stay closer to the shadows while I moved slowly in the darkness of the coming night. It felt odd only noticing a handful of Royal Guards patrolling the central areas. I did not attempt hiding from them greeting them with a silent nod or a salute to the higher ranked Feral Guards. Even with my uncommon armor, they did not seem to have a problem with my presence floating through these prestigious enclave.

“Seems my kin did get a message to you.” a voice whispered from a shadow up wind from me. I gazed into the shadow allowing my eyes to adjust to the dim lighting. A foxed shaped figure stood a touch taller than me with a cloaked human beside them. The vixen that stepped from the shadows was truly taller than me with midnight colored fur which is not typical for foxes. As the being accompanying her stepped forward, the scent of heavy perfume tickled my nostrils and told me who this was: the King’s concubine. She was cloaked perfectly hiding herself from head to toes but her scent was unmistakable. “From the snarl on your face, you know who stands with me.” the black vixen softly said.

“Yes, but why is the only question I have.” I returned in a hushed growl. “But first, proper introductions while I calm myself.” I added reigning in my reactions to her perfumed.

“Munin’s perfume selection is quite horrible.” the concubine stated. A slender white hand reached out from under the cloak towards me. I last saw that hand holding a hand crossbow but was held openly to me now. “My name is Shala Meuse, but with you it will be Shala.” she added holding her hand out to me. I took it gently in my padded paw of a hand to shake it. The soft giggle showed she accepted this simple human action.

“Kestrel.” I returned with a slow nod of my head in greeting. I still waited to discover this odd fox’s identity.

“They sent the outcast fox, Siren of the Lashed Wolf Pack, to watch over the idiot’s concubine.” the fox revealed without a hint of anger or annoyance. “Well met Kestrel of the Redpath clan.” she continued calmly. I felt her touch at my chin before her cheek brushed along mine. “Better to greet you in feline fashion than anything else.” she added. Her touch had been firm but not forceful at my chin to allow her rubbing cheeks with me.

“You raised a weapon in Munin’s defensive, which I must thank you.” Shala whispered. We had placed ourselves in a tight triangle at the edges of the shadows. “His death at a foreigner’s hand would not be seen as a bad event for Atlantis.” she remarked. “It’s why the Royal Guards did not move to stop that possibility from happening.” she added calmly.

“Too many other problems would arise from such an action.” I remarked with a huffing growl.

“She does not see that yet but is not foolishly remaining blind.” Siren replied slowly.

“If he dies, Annianka can be with her true King.” Shala interjected. The vixen groaned at this comment.

“Prince Bryan would be tossed aside, and so would all of Munin’s playthings including yourself Shala.” I warned her. “Do you truly wish to be tossed on a foreign shore with nothing but the clothing on your back?” I asked sightly blunter than I meant. A bark of laughter escaped Siren at my summation of the situation. “Better to have him step down eventually to allow Princess Sara and Prince Bryan to co-rule Atlantis with honor.” I added with a small toothy smirk.

“You believe he would give up the power of being the King of Atlantis?” Shala retorted. “I understand waiting could give Prince Bryan a chance to show his nobility that his father lacks but the lot of us that he dragged along to satisfy his debased needs have no value.” she stormed forward verbally. “I have no place because of that degenerate man.” she added. Siren’s hand was around her shoulders instantly.

“I will still follow and protect you, silly woman.” Siren purred at her. I sighed softly as all my annoyance melted away.

“You will make sure she stays safe, Siren?” I asked. She looked at me and nodded. “I will inform Lord Kestrel of our two mystery allies that could sway King Munin’s thoughts indirectly.” I told them. “But for now, why did you decide to call upon me?” I added in a more casual tone.

“Of all the Royal Guard clans, you are the first other than Miss Hope to select your duties personally.” Siren admitted softly. “One of two that could see a half-breed can have merit among the Royal Guards.” she continued in a nearly inaudible whisper. She was hiding her words from the one she guarded to protect this woman. An insane thought had me taking a chance by placing a firm hand at her chin. As our cheeks touched, I whispered a lone question to her.

“Do you love her?”

“What?” she yapped pulling back. She stared into my eyes trying to find words to answer my question. “I...do...not...know.” she breathed out in a slow halting way.

“Close enough.” I exclaimed with a smirk. The warning sound of a higher pitched chuckle told me another had joined this conversation from the Ferret Guards. The step was light even if the nails clicked on the marble walkway.

“And good enough for my big brother to vouch for you as a member of the Ferret Guards.” Khëndrâèl stated as he stood beside me. “The squad leader was worried for no reason when the foxes wanted time alone with you, young Redpath.” he continued casually. “You are, in Captain Jäzærha's eyes, a fox even with your lupus mixed blood.” he told her. “As for yourself, kitten, any of the Captains would give you an honorary place in their squads, little Knight.” he added.

“A Knight?” Shal remarked shocked. “I thought the armor was a...” she tried but could not finish her words.

“A help return a Princess back to her Throne to be their Queen.” I informed them briefly. I knew it sounded both silly and unrealistic because of how simplified my explanation was. “The Queen who knighted me gave this armor as a personal gift to me.” I continued keeping an annoyed growl from my voice. Before I could say more, Siren did the cheek rub once more adding the question I had whispered to her. “Yes!” I exclaimed. Her eyes went wide while Khën chuckled beside me.

“And your duties can remain as they are Siren since someone needs to keep Munin focused on his duties.” he remarked. He bowed to Shala and drifted away without anything else said.

“Why do I feel drafted as a soldier?” Shala returned to us.

“More like a good influence that watches over a fool.” Siren replied with a soft giggle. “But we should all be returning home for some sleep this night.” she added quietly.

“May I request an odd favor from our feline Knight?” Shala whispered hesitantly.

“If it is within my power, I will give it proper consideration.” I replied easily.

“I wish to rub cheeks with you as well.” she asked in a small quiet voice. “I know my perfume is horrible but I wish to experience what seem the most innocent and pleasant greeting.” she continued slightly bolder.

“It is a rather odd request coming from a human.” Siren stated slowly. She looked at me unsure if she should allow this to happen.

“You would be exposing your face to all that might be passing by.” I warned her gently. I looked back to Siren as we both shrugged towards each other undecided. “I will accept this but only this once from you.” I answered feigning calmness. This was an action that Diadem was the only human to receive it prior to this moment. Shala’s hood was pulled back as she stepped hesitantly forward. She placed a hand on my one cheek and slowly rubbed her cheek along the exposed one.

“I love Siren” she whispered into my ear. She pulled away slowly with a small smile on her face. “Now you know why I needed to do this, yes?” she told me. She pulled the hood back firmly in place to hide her face in shadows. I had caught the hint of blush upon her cheek before the shadows made her disappear.

“Completely.” I replied. I gave Siren a knowing smirk before bowing to both of them and drifting away into the shadows. Many different thought floated around my mind as I neared what was now my home. Shala admitting that she loved Siren while knowing the fox had feelings for her as well made me think about Dia. I nearly missed the squawk as I landed upon the wall at the same moment a harpy landed beside my perch. She place the scroll at my feet then bent her head forward to receive head scratches. Purring chuckles rolled out of me as I idle scratched the harpy’s feathery head. “Thank you.” I whispered to her. I collected the message I had received from my helpful harpy friends.

I did not try reading the missive until I was in my place in the bow of the tree I slept peacefully in. I unrolled it wondering if it was from Dia, Deidra, or maybe Rouge but I was looking at a message from Artea. It was mostly a simple report of the event to the southern edge by the mountain pass. It mentioned the life-like statues that would be left to hold lanterns to light the passage at night but no suspicions that they were once alive. I debated telling her the truth but they could not truly help them anyways. She also explained that the lands for our Royal Guards vacation lands were already being prepared and the citizens of those two areas were more than happy to receive my kind and kin into their lands. The last part was telling me how brave and strong Dia was behaving even if she missed me deeply. She also mentioned that Queen Diadem hoped I would be the one bringing the Royal Guards personally to her land with a chance for a visit together. I sighed considering how impossible this would be with my duties towards Lord Kestrel. I drifted to sleep and dreamed of future times with Dia. I awake hearing the growls of Miss Hope in the foyer. I did not need to see her to know her annoyance was edging into anger. I could not wait to listen how this would turn out. I moved to enter the foyer from the garden door to find her standing there fuming.

“You seemed perturbed this sunny morning, Lady Hope.” I greeted her with barely the hint of a smile on my face. My tail had wrapped itself at my waist and leg to hide my nervousness. She glared and growled at me sending a shiver of icy cold down my spine. I shrunk before her but kept my eyes upward to meet hers. Her growl remained as one hand had my chin in a tight grip. Her growled died in her throat as her eyes went wide for a barely a moment before she shook her head releasing me.

“Go play guard somewhere else, please.” she asked in a growl. “Lord Kestrel will not be needing a shadow today.” she added in that same growling voice. I sighed and nodded to her drifting towards the kitchen to see if Meli had started boiling water for morning tea. The kitchen was empty so I took it upon myself to prepare the kettle for tea. I was at least able to hear when Kestrel come downstairs and left with Miss Hope. When Meli arrived a few minutes later, she was happy seeing the water ready and I informed her of Kestrel’s departure with Miss Hope. It was after the noontime meal when Kestrel returned alone. While he prepared the team to leave to the southern lands, I assured him I would keep an eye on Cole. I carried most of their heavier supplies to the harbor for them to be placed onboard the Herald that was quickly re-provisioning itself for Lord Kestrel’s next adventure. The rest of the day was spent exploring Atlantis and practicing with Cole and some of the mixed Guard groupings.

Redpath's Journals: Truth, Surprised Title, and a Watch Duty (18)

Ambassador Socotra’s face slid from angry red to a pale shade of white as he consumed the information on the scrolls. He step forward slowly, as we held back, until he stood beside Lord Kestrel. He sank to one knee with his head down exposing the back of his neck reminding me of Dia’s submissive posture when she was sacrificing herself. In his hand, the few scrolls he had read and viewed as enough truth for him to be shamed by his countrymen’s behavior. He stayed immobile in this position until the scrolls were removed from his hand and returned to the King’s grasp. He rose to his feet with his face still downcast still in perfect silence.

“I withdraw my petition in this case.” he murmured quietly in the silence of the room. It was a thunderous spark having a slow murmur rush around the room. His head finally lifted to look at the King directly in the eyes. “True justice was served by this slaughter.” he proclaimed clearly for the room. Silence returned as he turned to start stumbling towards the doors. Kestrel half turned without stepping to stop him from leaving.

“I would request permission to have the Ambassador escorted to my lodging by Sertian.” Lord Kestrel stated quickly. “We must discuss matters unrelated to this revelation forced upon him.” he suggest. Sert was already in motion as I moved to take his place in our triangular formation. The ambassador gave him a simple blank faced nod as the warrior took his arm to assist him to leave under protective watchful eyes. The silence of the court was mostly to hear what had taken place and why a slaughter was now seen as justice upon Atlantis. Something they would not receive but what they did witness was more of a shock: Munin’s acting noble and wise while a new Royal Advisor was named.

“He should be held accountable for his people’s actions.” Munin grumbled after Socotra was safely away. The edge of his anger was palpable in the room by my animal instincts like an oncoming typhoon’s lightning.

“With the lack of a Royal Advisor, may I offer counsel to the Throne?” Kestrel suggested calmly. He turned and side-stepped to stand in front of both Royals. With a silent shuffle, we moved to be aligned at his back once more.

“You are one of the few beings that We both trust, noble Envoy Kestrel.” The King answered softly. He glances at the Holy Queen as he sat upon his throne properly, even placing the robe more tightly around his body. His back was straight in a royal fashion he had never shown to his court before this one moment. The Queen matched his stiff back royal placement with a mildly shocked look upon her face. This earned her a sad smile from the King. “We shall heed your words of wisdom in this trying moment.” he finally stated as they both turned to face Lord Kestrel.

“Would you condemn a man if a member of his household performed a heinous act?” Kestrel began drawing them into his thought patterns. “Or would you hold him responsible to handling just punishment to the ones that disregarded your honorable laws?” he quickly continued preventing interruptions.

“It would his right to dole out punishment without interference as long as he actually does punish them.” the Queen replied slowly. The king nodded for her to continue. “But it is not the case we have before us.” she remarked calmly. I could see her eyes locked upon Kestrel but could not read nor smell her emotions.

“But it is unless the foreigners upon Atlantis suffer from a secondary set of rules that do not apply to families of Atlantis.” Kestrel returned easily. He gave them time to understand his words by pensively scratching at his chin. With a quick glance between the Royals, they slowly nodded their understanding. “And he has agreed that the slaughter was just punishment, therefore the criminals have been properly punished for their crimes.” he added with a hint of finality. A long glancing pause between them kept them from speaking. A small smile had formed on the Holy Queen’s face as her eyes returned to gaze upon Kestrel. King Munin face seemed more pensive and still angry at this revealed event.

“Wise words indeed, noble Kestrel.” she admitted softly. She glanced once more at the King who appeared doubtful from his simmering anger. I heard a hint of a sigh from Kestrel.

“What would be gained by punishing one that will heed rumors against his people more closely to keep them in line?” he asked to the King directly. Munin’s anger had him holding back from accepting this path of logical reaction.

“Nothing but showing the vengeance of Atlantis.” Munin retorted hesitantly. I could smell his anger slowly receding but still strong enough to hold from agreeing.

“But is it vengeance or simply revenge?” Kestrel countered. “And what would he be replaced with?” he snapped. “A man that will not see the honor in what has been done?” he suggested. “A person that will deny the facts and claim themselves above such laws?” he continued mercilessly. Each statement giving a worse situation for Atlantis and the Throne. “A being that will poison the society of Atlantis directly like what was being attempted?” he added with a blunt snort. A scroll appeared upon Munin lap which was tossed into the group of nobles present after he read it. This revealed to the court what was the truth requiring a slaughter in the harbor and why the former Royal Advisor was slaughtered by the Atlantian dolphins. Did not notice when the Queen moved but her hand was upon Munin’s arm in a gentle touching grasp. He slowly turned to look at her.

“His words are wise, my husband.” she whispered to him. All hint of angry scent left Munin. In a silent pensive state, even after my Lord Kestrel’s verbal assault upon him, the sat straight back. The silence seem to become a frozen moment that would never end. A sad smile slowly grew on Munin’s face before he nodded to the Queen. They both turned to face Kestrel once more as true Royals.

“It is best to have a man whose honor is known than a dishonorable stranger in our midst.” he concluded with a hint of resignation in his voice.

“My husband?” Her Holy Highness said quietly. I half expected for Kestrel to respond but he looked away from her. The King turned to glance at her with his regal pose still fully in place. “We still require a Royal Advisor We both have faith to stand even against us for the benefit of Atlantis itself.” she hazarded this suggestion. The crowd of nobles stepped back from the Thrones possibly sensing what was about to happen. “And I believe, he stands before us now.” she added more directly to the King in a half whisper. We moved at these words, taking two full steps back as one now nearly blocking the doors to the Throne Room. The soft chuckle from Munin sounded sincere as both Royals turned once more to face Kestrel now standing alone with empty space around him.

“Yes, my Queen, Lord Kestrel is the only possible choice We ever had.” Munin stated so slowly while grinning. “Will you accept being our Royal Advisor, most honorable Lord Kestrel?” he asked in a formal fashion. These was not an order like Munin usually forced upon others. It was a true request showing respect and humility from King Munin, known only for his arrogance. The silence roared in my ears as every heartbeat, every breathe, and every smallest movement was clearly audible in the Throne Room. I had never thought that silence would be deafening but this torture to my sensitive hearing inspired insanity in my mind.

The sound of Lord Kestrel’s neck muscles contracting and his spine sections rubbing against each other as he looked from the Queen to the King like a pendulum was akin to metal squeaking on bone. Meli rolling on her heels. Cole’s fingers flexing and unflexing. The hesitant step or inaudible whisper of a breath being held. Every heartbeat rushing to a higher rhythm as the length of silence grew into minutes from seconds. I was on the verge of bolting but could only see Lord Kestrel accepting and placing himself equal to the Royals before him. I could even hear my own muscles tightening and relaxing without being able to move but wanting this fearful silence to end.

“Will you answer?” Munin asked breaking the silence. I could hear his heart beating faster and his hand trembling from what could only be nervousness. He glance at the Queen who’s colour had bled out of her face. “Have We offended you with this menial request?” he continued. His face blanched as I smelt fear from both the Royals but they still leaned forward as one towards the still silent Kestrel. A nearly imperceptible sigh escaped him.

“To be honest.” Kestrel breathed out like a whispering breeze. The silence in the large room grew louder to my ears at this whispered reply. This screamed that the deadliest of creature had arrived in our midst as my clan had thought me. “You have taken me by surprise, even with my gifts of precognition.” he stated slightly louder in the room. The edge of the silence finally slipped into a calmer environment. I could hear the slow breaths from Cole and Meli making me worried they had stopped breathing like I felt I had done myself. A small rumble floated around the room as Kestrel’s hand rose keep comments to a minimum. “This request may be simple thing for anyone that is not the Envoy of the Ones on High.” he concluded. He looked around the room before his eyes returned to the Thrones. What I saw on his face was showing mixed emotions I could not place by smell from him.

“Explain to us where your problems lies so we may solve it, if we can.” the Queen returned quickly as both leaned even more forward towards him. Worry had replaced the scent of fear they had been emanating previously.

“After all you have done, We would never belittle any of your needs, Lord Kestrel.” Munin supplied nearly casually. “Please tell us?” he added in a friendly tone. This oddly respectful behavior had my whiskers twitching and shivers running up my spine. It was a shock seeing Munin acting truly kingly without the typical arrogance he showed his court and people.

“My duties do not simply reside within Atlantis.” Kestrel replied slowly. Hint’s of calming notes had weaved their way into his tones once more. “They take me far and often away from these shores that is not proper for a true advisor.” he explained calmly. Minor whispered words barely audible kept the silence away from the Throne Room as the nobles suggested alternative ideas and procedures.

“But we have the Royal Guard Captains and the Council for normal daily matters.” the Queen reminded him. It was a gentle push towards him agreeing to this offered position as if it was not nearly as high as their own placement upon Atlantis.

“Aye!” Munin agreed with a hint of a smirk. “Do not feel forced to ignore your duties because We wish to have your advice over all others.” he tumbled forward with a full smile on his face. “Noble Kestrel, you are the only being that both of us and all of Atlantis trust which earn you such a lofty title.” he added with a soft chuckle forming in his throat. The queen giggled at this mirthful reaction from the King while both smiled down upon Lord Kestrel.

“If it will not conflict with my other duties, then I must accept.” he admitted slowly. The music was gone from his voice. “At least it will stop others throwing themselves at you to barely fill the Royals’ needs.” he concluded in a whisper. My purring chuckle was hidden by Lord Kestrel clearing his throat. The eruption of noise that followed was deafening but, like my team mates, we listened and watched the reactions of the nobles. Some slunk away giving Kestrel dirty looks while other moved forward to congratulate him.

“We will expect you to be present on the next morning to discuss the slaughter with possible perpetrators.” the Queen stated over the cacophony before signalling to Kestrel that he could leave. With a slow ponderous steps we moved to his side and slipped towards the exit. With on last nod to the Queen, Lord Kestrel left the room and slowly walked to the cross road leading to our residence.

“I heard that issues have arisen regarding the Ice Dragons.” Meli hazarded at this moment.

“The Council will possibly have need of me.” Cole returned shrugging. “Plus, I dislike cold terrains.” he admitted smirking at Meli. With a bow to us he started to move away. He took two steps away before turning to look at me. He signaled me to approach him. As we stood close to each other, his words and my own came out in whispers.

“I would have committed that slaughter, if Lord Kestrel asked.” he admitted to me. My purring hid his words from others hearing them.

“But not for your Council?” I returned as his hissing breath made my words invisible.

“I am not a fool.” he replied. We exchanged a nod before we both laughed and parted company. I was stilling purring gleefully in my throat nearly prancing to rejoin Kestrrel and Meli.

“He may be a snake, but I believe he is truly your viper, sir.” I remarked as they both looked at me. With Meli at Lord Kestrel’s side, I followed in their shadow purring merrily about my discovery.

“It can wait until we collect the proper gear for such an expedition.” Kestrel told Meli as we walked home. “First, I must place an Ambassador on notice.” he continued seriously. “Then you will explain your comment, young Kestrel.” he tossed back at me. News of Lord Kestrel’s new position had flown ahead of us to all of Atlantis, as we discovered upon entering our residence.

Sert stood in the foyer wearing his new armor that shone from both the mixed metals, burnished leather, and the new emblem upon his breast. It appeared real, standing out in perfect relief nearly three dimensional with the silvery piping around the Royal Seal. He held out a set of leather in the same archaic style Lord Kestrel wore bearing a golden piped Royal Emblem with the word for Advisor below it. My breath caught in my throat as I noticed upon a stand a matching set to the armor from Dia I was wearing. Beside the emblem of Queen Diadem’s kingdom sat a matching emblem of the Royal House of Atlantis. The words “Honor Guard” and “Queen’s Knight” was etched below the matching emblems. No piping touched it but the same three dimensional effect lay at a lesser quality upon the emblems and titles.

“Lady Mekilliean’s new armor is in her room presently.” Sert announced to us. He beamed with happiness at this sudden gift. “No metal in hers, but very different from the bundle of leather straps of your original.” he informed Meli with a smirk on his face. He bowed to her quickly before she waves him off. She headed to the kitchen which I presumed would be for tea and preparing our morning meal we had missed.

“Was there any issues with our guest during your walk home?” Kestrel asked Sert. He held the new armor in his one hand with a soft pleased smile on his face. His other hand reached back towards me. I did wait for his command before the scroll I still held would be placed in his hand.

“None, but Chichi warned me that today’s meals are being covered by the Royal Kitchens.” Sert answered. I moved to stand closer behind Lord Kestrel. My purring chuckle at hearing this filed the foyer. Meli’s giggled joined mine floating from the kitchen.

“Redpath?” Kestrel stated plainly. The sneer on his face was chilling as I placed the scroll in his waiting hand. “I pray the Ambassador is open-minded enough for saving his skin without wasting time.” he added bluntly. He moved toward the door to the inner garden with Sert and myself following him. He entered as we placed ourselves by the door while I listened to possible issues for us to rush in.

“Did anyone retrieve the Ambassador’s weapons?” Sert asked me softly. I reviewed the events mentally before shaking my head as answer to him. “Must remind him to do so upon his departure.” he returned with a shrug. I stiffened as my ears caught the string of curses shouted beyond the door. Sert half turned reaching to pull the door open but I held up a hand for him to stop. Silence returned and we both looked at each other with a forced chuckled.

“He has seen just learn what our Royals have not been told.” I remarked to Sert. He eyed me confused. “It appears the Royals of Ambassador Socotra’s country ordered the heinous activities.” I explained slowly. “We have no proof those orders are authentic which I why Lord Kestrel held them back.” I continued calmly. “From Socotra’s reaction, he believe they are real.” I added. A soft whistle escaped Sert as he realized why the screaming had happened. I nodded and sighed while keeping my back against the wall while listening closely for another moment of outburst. Barely an hour had passed before Meli arrived carrying a tray holding tea, cups, and plates of food.

“I will bring you each a plate with tea after serving the guest.” she informed us. We nodded but I held up my hand delaying her entry. She smiled understand my actions. My hand dropped as I nodded to her to proceed. She returned quickly. “Perfect time to bring food and tea.” she agreed with a soft giggle. I smiled before she left to return with our morning meal and heavy cups of strong tea. “Best we remain sharp until this morning discussion is completed.” she reminded us. I sniffed at the tea before looking at her with a tilted head. “Mint for Sert to help digestion and catnip to keep you calm.” she added before returning towards the foyer. I heard her heading upstairs possibly going to inspect her new armor.

I was assigned to escort the Ambassador as they exited the garden, but a surprise waited just outside our doors. A squad of Ferret Guards stood loosely waiting for the Ambassador. Quick words between Lord Kestrel and the squad leader had me still going along with them as an exercise in observing how the Ferrets performed their escort duties. We had barely changed streets when I spotted Deas coming from the Royal Kitchens dragging a small cart loaded with many noontime meals. I ignored the minor grumble from my stomach focusing on the Ambassador and the squad of Ferret Guards. Each were in pairs, one at point and one as rearguard. At random time they would flip from front to back in a perfectly timed maneuver without even looking at each other. And it was not only ferrets in this detail which included rats, mice, and even a pair of foxes. One of these foxes had fallen in step by me, who was in the opposite position of the squad leader.

“Odd armor you wear.” the female fox commented at my side.

“A gift from a close friend.” I replied calmly. A yapping bark of laughter came from her.

“Since it bears a title as noble as knight, your friend is highly positioned.” she returned. The hint of mirth and teasing in her tones was not lost on me having me purr unconsciously from her words.

“Yes, Queen Diadem is highly loved and respected by her people.” I answered softly purring. “This armor is all I have since I may never set eyes upon her again.” I added in a near whisper. It earned me a glance, a sad smile, and a slow nod of her head.

“Life always will return you to those that need you, young panther.” she stated softly and slowly. With this, she and her paired partner shifted places giving me a second fox beside me. He was barely taller than her nearly matching my height. He gave me a smile but did not speak as we finished the walk to the Ambassador’s residence. I watched the female fox speak to their squad leader before she returned to join the other fox and myself. “I request that we walk with you to your lair since our duties take us further along that path.” she told me gently.

“Fitting as vulpine do share characteristics with felines.” the male replied with a smile. The purr that came from both of them seemed natural and as cattish as my own. We did not delay with words as we turned and moved swiftly along the street back towards the place I felt was my home. Before leaving me by the wall hiding the residential garden, they stopped and turned towards me. “If you are out along the pathways of the Royal Grounds at night, you may meet another of our kin and her charge.” he warned me softly.

“She will be interested in having words with you secretly.” the vixen added before they nodded and rushed away.