Prince and future King Alaric was headed to his secret chamber where a woman with colorless eyes was waiting to inform him on what she'd discovered. Since it was sunrise, the servants of the castle were already running about doing their day-to-day workings. Normally, the hallways were packed with dozens of servants and a few guards who watched over the castle and made sure nothing was amiss. But Prince Alaric had used a secret passageway that ran directly from his room to an abandoned hallway, which led to the part of the castle that wasn't included in the blueprints. The hallway was lighted with torches placed along the walls. There were rodents and cobwebs everywhere, yet the Prince barely noticed them. His thoughts were only on his mstovaris (spy). He marched with all haste towards a wooden door with a rusted knob.
When he reached the door, he took out of his vest , a silk handkerchief which he placed on the knob. He went in, closed the door behind him and raised the torch, a satisfied smile formed on his lips when the woman fell on one knee with her head bowed.
"Your highness…" she began
But the prince brought his finger to his lips, ordering her to remain silent, and so she did. He dabbed his face with another handkerchief then threw it on the pile of previously dirty hankies. He took a moment to regain all the breath he'd lost walking through the dusty hallway and only after he dusted his trousers did he speak, sounding rather bored, "Enola dear, let's skip the formalities about your ghastly journey shall we, and head straight to the part where you speak about my significant other." He purred, tapping his cheek as he pranced around the woman
If she'd dared, Enola would've rolled her eyes at the Prince or even spat at him. She wasn't fooled by his good humored smile, or his innocent voice. Unlike the rest of the world, Enola knew Prince Alaric was never in a good mood, and despite his angel carved face and sophisticated air, the man was a real brute; a person who lacked interest in everything that wasn't him. Someone who appeared delicate and could attract anyone's attention with but one look into his green electric eyes filled of magnetism and appeal. If that wasn't enough, Prince Alaric was blessed with luscious gold hair that reached his back, and seemed to hug his chiseled face; skin like white porcelain, curvy silk lips and a mouth watering body. But underneath all his heavenly beauty laid a demonic heart that'd held Enola in chains for as long as she could remember. It's because of him, she'd grown to be wary of handsome men.
She watched the prince drop on one knee, placing his index under her chin, causing Enola to silently will her breathing to slow down. Once he raised her head so her eyes met his cold ones, he asked, "Did you find him?"
"Yes." She answered with practically no emotion
Prince Alaric cocked his head then, his sickening smile made Enola's stomach churn yet her face was a mask, which hid her loathing and fear of him. But the Prince already knew she abhorred him, so it amused him to see how hard she tried to pretend otherwise. It's why he inched closer, his eyes sparkling with content when she couldn't stop herself from pursing her lips. With a chortle, he released her and while standing up he prompted, "So, what did you see? Was he, oh I don't know…powerful? Was his beast a legendary one? Go on now, give me every detail!" he pried, flipping his furry cape, looking as excited as always when speaking of his obsession
Enola was indifferent to his enthusiasm, but she managed to reply curtly, "I spotted him in the EverShade Forest, it was past midnight and he was fighting for his life against some hooded men and woman who were out to get him…"
"Oh how MARVELOUS, this means you actually saw him in action? Wonderful!" beamed the Prince biting his lips with barely contained joy, he then ushered her on, so she continued, "He managed to hold his ground for a while, but later grew tired and gave his attackers the advantage, seeming as if all was over for him..."
Enola paused as soon as the Prince rose his hand, his face was already turning red, he held the bridge of his nose and asked, "Am I to understand he doesn't have a Beast? Nor did he do anything tamer worthy to save himself?"
"No. If it weren't for two strangers coming to his rescue, he would be dead." She recounted, leveling her heart rate so he couldn't sense the lie in her voice
"I see." Was all the prince murmured, he didn't even seem disappointed, rather lost in his thoughts. But suddenly, he held his head and laughed making Enola more anxious. Despite her panic spiking up inside her, her eyes remained neutral as it watched the Prince look down on her with a grin that looked too warm. Though his voice was controlled, it was his icy stare full of warning that brought goosebumps to her skin, "Allow me to recapitulate darling, you found him; him that is said to be a mortal god amongst men; him that was given unfathomable power and is destined to revolutionize the Beast Taming world forever…and yet, he was nearly killed not by Beasts, but by common folks?" he inquired, unable to hide his skepticism and he roared with laughter
Enola could feel sweat dripping down her back, her heart beat so hard it was surprising her chest hadn't busted opened. Still, she didn't allow him to see how unnerving he made her feel. Once the prince settled down, she replied with all the calm she could master, "I assure you your highness, that's exactly what happened. I also felt confused at first, before thinking that maybe, the one you're looking for, is not him." She explained with a light shrug
The prince lightly rubbed his cheek and nodded to her reasoning, "Yes well, that could be the reason, or rather one of the reasons." He put out, smiling when Enola frowned in confusion and asked, "What other reason is there?"
Faster than Enola's eyes could see, the Prince pulled out a dagger and stabbed his own stomach with it. But instead of him crying out in agony, it was Enola who let out a shriek, clutching her stomach as she fell to the ground moaning with pain. Blood dripped out her mouth and she shrieked louder when the cruel prince turned the hilt of the dagger, opening her wound which brought out more blood onto the floor. Prince Alaric's once dazzling green eyes, were dark and merciless when he went over to where Enola laid, pressing his boot clad foot to her face, pressing it so hard she screamed, "YOUR HIGHNESS PLEASE…please!" She implored, panting. She tried and tried to remove his foot, only to scream out when he pressed harder
He kept his foot on her face and his dagger in his stomach then leaned down and tisked, "Oh Enola, I thought you would've learnt by now; you and I are linked darling. And for as long as my Beast lives it will always remain so. Meaning, your unsolicited body is my armor; your life is in my hands and when you lie, I…can…feel…it!" He growled, each time pressing harder on her face
Enola bit her lips as she fought the need to cry. Before, she would've implored for his mercy and admitted to whatever mistake or fault she'd made, but this time she yelled back, fighting against the pain he was inflicting on her, "I DID NOT LIE, I watched him (pants)…up until he left the forest with the two who saved him, HE HAD NO BEAST!" she growled back
The prince's face was perfectly red now, he pressed harder on her face wanting to squeeze the truth out of her but when she didn't say anything more and just fought to shove his foot off her, he stepped away, watching Enola with disgust. She held her stomach, wincing at the blood on her, while holding her painful cheek.
She turned to the Prince, glaring at him and her hatred only grew when he spread his arms opened and bellowed, "AT LAST! I can finally see the animosity in your dead eyes and it's scrumptious, my pet."
If Enola's eyes could've change colors, no doubt it would've been blood red, her chest heaved from all the bottled fury and her eyes glistened from the pain, even her teeth were clenched as if she desired nothing more than to cut him open. He could read all that from the unholy bond they shared, which was why he licked his lips, showing Enola that he found her agony entertaining.
He pulled out the dagger from his stomach and like always her body healed on the spot, hiding another proof of the prince's abuse on her. Knowing he would only feel better about himself if she wallowed in her misery, she forced herself up and even looked him straight in the eyes with her head held high before stating, "I did as you asked. But seeing as you're so unhappy with my findings, I'll look again."
And with that, she walked to the wall, about to climb it like a lizard all the way to the window 5 m up, but she shut her eyes in fatigue and swore under her breath when the prince called out, "Not so fast Enola."
She pushed her need for escape down in her gut before turning back to the Prince, holding her body as a means to comfort herself.
The prince tossed the dagger away, the sound made Enola jump so he felt it was his role to comfort her. He stood in front of her, his form overshadowing hers so that she felt even more trapped than she was. He held the cheek he'd stepped on, smiling beautifully when her nose flared but she didn't resist, fearing he'd torture her this time. She just fixed him with distaste while he caressed her cheek, with his eyes looking fondly into hers, he said, "Seeing as you claim he isn't the one, I will allow you to look again."
"Thank you." She spat, instantly turning to leave, but the Prince grabbed her chin in a tight grip and pulled her up so that when he leaned in and spoke, his words brushed over her lips, revolting her, "But first things first, I need you to find this Beastless individual called…?" he asked
"He didn't say."
The prince grinned, "Of course he didn't. Well then, after finding this no name villager I want you to use your abilities to get close enough, to kill him." He instructed, cocking his head when Enola's face paled
He observed her to see if she'd object to his decision, but she only gaped at him in disbelief so he added, "On account that he's not alone, kill his companions too. Once that is done, continue your mission and bring me the Chosen. Simple isn't it?" He laid out, speaking as if he was proposing to have dresses made for her
Enola had meant to look strong until she'd leave him but at the thought of killing someone, she looked completely crushed. Due to her situation she'd always done everything the Prince asked of her, always frightened of what he might do to her, were she to fail. And just this once, she'd wanted to sabotage his plans, just this once she'd wanted to stop him from having something he wanted, and he'd made her pay by asking her to take away someone's life. How would she ever live with herself if she did what he asked?
And to make things worse, the Prince whispered in a lethal tone, "You have one week Enola, only one week. If you do not return by then, I will find you, have you dragged back to me and together, with your precious other, we'll discover the limits of your wondrous healing abilities." he threatened, his eyes glowing with amusement when Enola held herself tighter, looking as reckless as a caged mouse
The memory of all the horrors Prince Alaric had put her through, ran through her mind making her eyes fill with tears. She knew she wouldn't stand another one of his experiments on her and never would she let anyone watch as he put her through hell.
Since escape was impossible, it was either she killed someone or killed herself, because if she lied again she was certain he wouldn't be so lenient with her. The prince sighed when he saw a tear run down Enola's shaken face. He gently leaned in and kissed her salty lips, making Enola feel dirty. He then whispered in her ear with a cruel smile, "You are my property Enola, never forget that."
Enola felt her entire body tremble and her heart squeeze, yet she didn't say a word nor did she see him leave the room. Only when she heard the door close, did she fall to the ground and huddle in a ball weeping into her hands. No matter how she tried to look strong, to show she could never be broken, he always found a way to crush her spirit, enjoying terrorizing her soul until she felt certain she'd never be free from him.
Enola wept for a long time, and only when she felt numb did she find the strength to get up. She climbed the wall all the way to the window, took a deep breath, and leaped out, using her stealth to exit the Castle grounds without been seen.
§
"Good gods there's so much to see. " Thought Sage, an excited smile breaking across his face as his curious eyes took every bit of the scenery in
Beside him, Anora held his arm, giggling gently whenever Sage awed or gasped at something he found interesting, which to Alexander's annoyance was everything. The villager stuck out like a sore thumb so that whilst they wore hoods over their faces, Alexander felt certain their enemy would spot them from a mile.
And though Anora tolerated his behavior, Alexander felt he'd had enough of Sage's noisy contemplation, tis why he angrily folded the map he held and caught the tip of Sage's cloak. His grip was so strong that when he pulled on it, both Sage and Anora (who held him) were yanked back. Once they both found their footing, Anora turned around and crumpled unhappily, "Goodness Alexander, what was that for?"
Sage snatched the piece of his cloak Alexander held, crossed his arms and asked warily, "Whatever could be the matter this time Alexander?"
Alexander instantly replied in a hushed tone, "You are the matter Sage, at some point your lack of discretion will draw attention to us. And I understand this is the first time you've ever left your cave…"
"…village." Corrected Sage
Alexander straight out snapped, "I couldn't care less if it was a tree, just stop acting like a tourist and keep your mouth shut until you've learnt to say something intelligent."
Before Sage or Anora could even express a word, Alexander unfolded his map and walked past the both of them, not even bothering to excuse himself whenever he walked into a pedestrian. Anora turned to Sage and after seeing him shake his head at Alexander's attitude, she said politely, "Please forgive him, long trips make him cranky."
Sage gave her a skeptic glance, so she released a breath and admitted, "Okay, so he has been cranky ever since we left the forest…" and when Sage looked at her even more dubiously she gave in, "Alright, ever since we met but, trust me when I say he's a good person, a loyal friend and a great Tamer." She beamed, grabbing him by his arm and walking quickly as she tried to catch up to Alexander who still hadn't risen his head from his map
Sage too hastened in his steps and while doing so he wondered, "Do you always defend him?"
Anora snorted and replied a little too loudly, "NO! I just um, well I…I'm his protector." She stated lamely, sinking her head in her shoulders when Sage burst out laughing
Since neither her nor Sage wanted to get Alexander angry enough to publicly humiliate them, they continued to watch their surroundings with admiration, but in silence. Sage had never dreamt he would leave EverShade so soon. He had planned on leaving once he'd found a beast and had saved enough money to make the trip to the Guild, where he'd learn to be a Beast Tamer, but that would've taken years. Yet just this morning he'd escalated some canyons, taken a boat down a river where he'd seen all sorts of Hydro-Beasts and now that they'd reached Innland, which Anora had explained was popular for its Beast Fights and elicit markets, Sage wanted to see more.
Earlier on the Boat, Alexander had explained they were headed to the Capital but in order to shake off anyone who might be pursuing them, they'd take a detour which was why they were heading to the South Terrain instead of the Main City. But since their voyage had practically lasted a day, Sage could see the Sun setting behind them and already some women were lighting up lanterns and hanging them on their doors, while they called their children back home. On the streets where they walked, there were men on horses, traders on Hortels (Horse and Cattle type of beasts) with their goods on the cart that their Beasts dragged. And on rare occasions, Sage would see fancy chariots pulled by magnificent white Armeanic Beasts which was a combination of an armadillo and bear, with some monarch or other that he didn't know of, so Anora would tell him. Alexander wasn't even interested in anything, whether he knew the nobles or not, he remained focused on his map and even seemed to raise it higher whenever a fancy chariot rode by.
Aside from the merchants and traders who rode on the street, there were the common folks who walked about, many Sage noticed were still working the farms while the women collected ingredients for their supper. Others were closing up their boutiques and stalls to retire for the night. While most of the men (especially the young) entered the Inns with some Beasts, and a bag of gold.
This drew Sage's attention, he wished to ask Anora about it but saw her playing around with Alexander's Beasts so instead he called out, "Hey Alexander."
It didn't surprise him when the young man seemed even more interested by his map and completely ignored Sage. But Sage only chuckled before laying it out calmly, "You'd do well to answer me Alexander, or I might cause a scene, which would be problematic don't you think?" He warned, but once again Alexander ignored him and even mumbled to himself about an interesting route he'd just discovered on the map.
Anora had been cuddling Angus the Mellowtone Beast but upon seeing Alexander was being difficult again she urged him, "Come on Alexander, be nice."
But Sage only winked at her, "It's okay love, I'll just have to scream his name louder then." He suggested, and Anora already braced herself. Sage cleared his throat, took in a big breath and just as he was about to scream at the top of his lungs, Alexander stood in front of him and with eyes like fire he threatened, "Don't, you, dare!"
Sage bent down and said with a bold smile, "That won't be necessary now that you're listening. Anyway I was wondering, why are those boys walking into the inns with Beasts and so much money?"
Though irritated at Sage for tricking him, he glanced behind Sage to where he was pointing, and saw a group of young men and their Beasts in cages going into the inn. Alexander then turned to Sage and replied with a frown, "Those idiots are called Beast wagers, they find docile beasts with the ability to fight and force them to battle in order to win money."
"It's a bloody and cruel sport that peasants find amusing. They get drunk, wager and then go home with a few extra coins made on the lives of the poor Beasts. It's quite unfair if you ask me." pouted Anora, looking quite angrily at the men entering the Inn.
Alexander explained, "Usually this sort of practice is considered illegal but in this god forsaken pigsty, everything goes." He sighed exasperatedly, he too glaring at the young men that kept entering the Inn, some didn't have beasts so Alexander knew they were spectators. He'd always been against this sort of practice even when he'd been younger. If they weren't trying to lay low, he would've replaced the brown cloak he was wearing with the fancy one and put a stop to that Inn's business for good. But no matter how much it made him itch to think that some of those Beasts won't be coming out alive, he'd stay out of it.
Alexander went on his way, ordering the others, "Let's move! And Sage, keep in mind that we're losing daylight, so I'd appreciate it if you didn't disturb me with other bothersome questions."
It was then that he felt Anora's hand on his shoulder so he sighed and turned around. She vigorously pointed ahead of them so Alexander looked, only to cuss out after seeing Sage hurrying towards the Inn, looking ready to cause a scene. Alexander immediately bellowed, "What in Beast Tamer name is he doing?!"
"Heading over to the inn, probably to put a stop to the Beast waging." muttered Anora, smiling uneasily when Alexander seemed ready to blow up
Before she could figure out a way to calm him, he abruptly grabbed her hand and she had to run pretty fast to keep up with his long strides. In no time, they reached the entrance and stood behind a group of three elder men, but Alexander was so pissed he snapped his fingers, and at once his Rhinosaur called Spike used its horn to shove them out his way, causing the men to groan in pain after falling on the ground like boulders.
Alexander stomped inside, and Anora called out sheepishly, "Sorry...but just so you know, Beast waging is illegal." she informed, before heading through the entrance.
Inside the Inn the place was cramped with the smell of ale, vomit and sweat. There were benches laid out in the far back where lots of men were seating down with their gold, as well as parchments with the name of the Beasts they were wagering on or putting in the competition. This Inn was even bigger than a Tavern and by the looks of the lovely servants, expensive Beasts heads and fancy carved tables, it was obvious that business was booming. Due to its space, there was another room where people were playing classical games like arm wrestling or card games, the men in that room looked more drunk and completely excluded from the Beast waging.
In front of them was a ring where two Beasts were sinking their fangs into each other, making the spectators cheer or howl. Slightly to the left was a counter where a woman was serving ale, while other girls happily gave it to the spectators. And right there leaning against the counter was Sage, choking on the ale he'd drank as he observed the spectators with disgust.
"Bloody hell, that buffoon is even more of an idiot than I imagined." Spat Alexander, his brown eyes narrowing on Sage
"I mean really, does he sincerely believe he can take on all these people, by himself?" scoffed Alexander, crossing his arms and racking his teeth over his bottom lip in frustration
As usual Anora felt she should soothe things out, "He admires Beasts Alexander, so of course he'd get involved. And perhaps he's counting on us to help him, so…" she trailed off, motioning that they should join Sage at the counter
"...So nothing Anora! We are not getting involved in whatever dumb idea Sage has planned. He's a grown man, let him figure it out." He scoffed once more, shaking his head as he turned to go
But Anora was tired of explaining herself to him, therefore she shrugged, "Alright then Alexander do as you wish. But something has to be done, just look at how those Beasts are hurting themselves! So if you want to go, go but I'm staying with Sage."
At once Alexander rushed to her face and his eyes blazed when he murmured firmly, "Out of the question."
Despite being distracted by his close proximity, she managed to say, "Then let's help him together." imploring silently with her eyes as she gazed fondly into his. But Alexander's eyes only furrowed some more so she batted her eyelashes and insisted harder, "Please Alexander." placing her palms lightly on his chest
Alexander's eyes lowered to her hands, and even though he tried to act like he wouldn't give in to her request, his eyes were gentle when they met hers. It took all of Anora's self control to slow down her wild breathing, and an even greater effort to remove her hands from him before she did something stupid.
Just as Alexander began to soften, another man with a Beast had entered the Inn, since Alexander was blocking the path he shoved him, pushing him into Anora who held on to his shoulders when she was about to fall. Instinctively, he held her waist and once she stood firmly on her feet she gave him a startled yet shy smile, but he didn't see it. His furious gaze was on the beafy man who walked past him with a Beast in a cage.
Alexander, popular for his short temper, instantly ran after him, rolling his sleeves back as he called out, "HEY BASTARD!"
The man with the beast realizing the kid was calling him, turned around with a scowl, "Who are you calling bastard, you brat?"
But the moment he turned around he saw a Rhinosaur charge in front of him, followed by the young man who leaped onto its back. He leaped again, grabbed the man's head and brought it down, slamming his knee into his nose. While Alexander descended, Spike the Rhinosaur pushed the man with its feet, sending him crashing down. At once Anora grabbed the cage of the beast before he reached the ground.
The man cried out at his broken and bloody nose, which caught the attention of the spectators and competitors. While Anora set the Beast free, Sage appeared from nowhere, next to the hot tempered Alexander, smirking, "What happened to not causing a scene?"
"Oh shut up." snapped Alexander, rolling his eyes when Sage snickered at him
"I suggest the both of you run up each other's nose, after we get beaten up please." Said Anora
"And here I thought you were the optimistic one, love." Grinned Sage,
"The poor girl lost it after meeting you!" spat Alexander through clenched teeth
As the spectators all got up, the two young men whose Beasts were on the ring stepped forward. One was a blond with dirty clothes, while the other was rounder with torn clothes. They both looked irritated by Sage and his companion for interrupting their match, so the round one demanded, "What the hell do you folks think you're doing, hurting our buddy Sam."
Alexander was the first to reply with a snotty tone, "Your buddy Sam shoved me so I shoved him. If you have a problem with that, come at me." He dared with a dangerous spark in his eyes
Most weren't intimidated by Alexander's small stature, but there were others who looked reluctant to cause trouble because of the great Rhinosaur which stood menacingly in front of the young lad. Though Spike wasn't one of the Legendary Beasts, it was still a formidable one, even Beast Tamers of rank 6 and 7 would be hesitant to attack such a destructive mutation.
Same could be said of the blond young man, who seemed about to back down from the fight, especially after seeing a Blizzard and Mellowtone Beast breaking in the Inn and standing beside the young lad. It pushed him to wonder incredulously, "Ratwag and Turtleback Cutters, how could that kid have so many powerful beasts?"
He also couldn't help being wary of the spider like beast on the tall stranger's shoulder, though he didn't know what kind of Beast it was, something told him if the tall stranger was traveling with a kid who had three Beasts, then his beast was no doubt a powerful one too. Reason why he turned to his round friend and murmured to his ear, "You know Bill, the Beasts the young punk has are no small matter, wouldn't it be wiser to let them get on their way."
At once Bill shoved him off, irritated that he'd even think about letting those trespassers go without so much as an apology, he hissed, "If you fancy being called a Chicken for the rest of your life, then run off Nolan."
Nolan who obviously didn't want to be mocked as a coward and boneless man for the rest of his life, turned firm, "Hell no, I was just saying we should be careful is all." He replied
"Sure you did." Scoffed Bill, before he turned his attention back to Alexander as he addressed the men around him, shouting out with his arms raised, "Would you look at that men, the peep squeak actually thinks he can take us on. I think we should teach the boy how we men, punish little children." He mocked and behind him, all the Spectators and competitors rose to their feet looking ready to bust Alexander up. There were still some who wished to stay out of it, but none of them missed Bill's earlier threat, so they decided to fight too, besides they too had beasts and were many, surely even a Rhinosaur couldn't hope to defeat them…right?
The female bartender and the servers all hurried to the gaming room and shut the door, not wanting to be part of the battle about to begin. Sage sighed at their situation, "First the hooded people and now the Beast wagers. Good grief, you really have a thing for violence, don't you Alexander?"
"If you're worried about adding more bandages to your rather unpleasant face, the door's that way!" pointed Alexander, glaring at the exasperated Sage before kneeling down and whispering something to each of his beasts
But Anora gulped when she saw all those big men coming their way, and she quivered, "Don't take this as an offense Alexander but I do agree with Sage, we didn't need to fight the spectators on top of the competitors and their Beasts." She pointed out
"Anora, please." said Alexander still whispering to Dimlynn
Sage on the other hand, looked at all the people they had to fight then looked down at Alexander who seemed eager to beat his opponents up. He was concerned they'd end up like the hooded villagers back in the forest if he didn't do something. Therefore, he pulled Alexander up by his hood demanding, "What exactly are you planning on doing to them?"
Alexander slapped his hand off, then slowly reached behind his cape as he replied, "What does it look like? I'm preparing to teach these boys the meaning of respect." He smirked, his face look even more fierce.
But Sage instantly accused, "Oh really? Like how you taught the villagers of EverShade respect this morning?"
At once Alexander pointed the tip of his short sword to Sage's unamused face blurting out, "I saved your damn life and gods, do I regret it."
"Boys, honestly, now isn't the time or the place." Reminded Anora, jerking her eyes towards the angry people closing in on them
One of the spectators with an amphibian and Komodo dragon like mutation known as a Komobian Beast, boasted then, "Seems these ladies are fussing over us, ain't it cute." He laughed, bringing out laughter from his colleagues
Alexander at that moment grinned like a psychopath and cackled, "Oh I'll damn well give you cute." Now he reached for his other short sword, impatient to run it into someone's throat
But he grumbled when Sage blocked his path with his Elaspipus in his hands telling him, "I think you've killed enough for one day kid, let Webster handle this pacifically."
Upon hearing Sage referring to him as Kid again, Alexander's eye twitched and he swung his sword around, about to slice him open. Anora held Alexander's arm, knowing he wouldn't dare take a swing at Sage's head if she held him, then sighed with relief, "Oh thank the gods Sage, I was terrified at the idea of seeing blood spill." She admitted, smiling when Sage assured her, "Not gonna happen."
Alexander was dying to pounce on Sage, it was easy to see he was furious at him beyond measure, the fool just wouldn't give him the respect he deserved. He vowed next time he'd hurt Sage real bad. But for now, he flouted, "How on Wilderbeast will your Beast settle this pacifically?"
Sage grinned, "Allow me to astound you my little friend." He assured, placing his Beast on the ground before taking a step back
Behind him Alexander muttered to Anora, "This is pointless." But she only shrugged gaily at his lack of faith
As the men suddenly charged at them with their Beasts, Anora's hold on Alexander's arm tightened, while Alexander stared dubiously at Webster which grew to Sage's height. Its tentacles moved in all directions, barely missing Dimlynn the Hailstorm Beast and it bared its teeth at the men (who looked startled at Webster's size) as they charged at a slower pace towards them.
Everyone who was outside, could hear shouting and yells coming from inside the Inn, as well as Beasts whimpering, crowing and roaring with agitation. It didn't sound like the usual Beast fights, rather the Beasts sounded in need of help. But soon it was the men who started crying out for help, and most yelled: "I CAN'T GET OUT!" or "RATWAG, it's so sticky...I CAN'T MOVE!"
Before long, a curious old farmer passed the crowd of people, who were too afraid to go in the Inn. The farmer, bravely went inside to see what the agitation was all about, but he suddenly rushed back out looking as vigorous as a young lad. Behind him, a hoard of different Beasts galloped out the Inn and onto the streets, bringing screams and shouts of alarm from the passing people.
While Beasts ran amok making chariots and carts fall or break, the Farmer who was on the other side of the street wiping sweat off his brow catching his breath was confused when he saw two young boys and a lass wearing hoods , stuck their head out the Inn, looking left and right, before running away like thieves, with three other Beasts behind them and one on the tall man's shoulder. This suspicious sight caused him to think, "What in Innland is going on in that Inn?"
Before long, the guards sent by the County Sheriff came to settle down the Beasts and the agitated population . They were shown to the Inn where the commotion started.
More crowds gathered, gossiping to each other while the guards went into the Inn. All were shocked or spooked when there erupted distressed voices crying out for help. A while after, one of the guards, a lean man with a mustache came out and spoke in a gruff tone, "Has anyone seen, a man with a Spider like Beast heading out this Inn?"
People shook their heads, and muttered to one another in search of anyone who might've seen this individual. The farmer, was too scared of getting into trouble to speak up, but he approached the Guard and asked humbly, "Um pardon me, but what seems to be the matter Sir?"
The guard, not in the mood to reply to an old peasant was about to ignore his question but an older guard clasped his shoulder, shaking his head at him in disapproval before addressing the public, "It seems we have trespassers on our land, a man, a young lad and a lass stirred trouble in this Inn. And one of their Beasts trapped the men inside, with super strong hammock webs. So be vigilant, if any of you see these intruders, report to the Sheriff's office, a price will be awarded to anyone leading to their capture." He announced
All at once, murmurs and exclamations spread out, each person making their plans on how to capture these intruders. Even if the Farmer hadn't been willing to speak before, his face lit up at the mention of an award, so he approached the guards, declaring, "Excuse me sirs but, I think I saw them leaving the Inn earlier."
The Elder Guard who seemed to be in charge, immediately led the farmer away from the crowd, urging him on, "Tell me everything."
§
Due to their earlier escape, Sage and Anora were out of breath by the time they found a hotel, far away from the Inn where they'd stirred up trouble. Like Sage had promised, Webster had stuck their attackers together, settling their issue without violence, so he didn't understand why Alexander still looked like he wanted to shoot him. Fortunately though, as they entered to book a room, Alexander didn't attack or insult him, he only went along with Anora who was talking to the Clerk at the reception.
Meanwhile, Sage whispered to his Beast, "Thank you for your help love, and don't mind Alexander, he's angry because he didn't get to kill anyone."
Right then Alexander made an outburst, causing those who were waiting in line to gape at him so Anora tried to calm him down but he yelled even louder at the Clerk, "What do you mean my Beasts must stay outside? My blade will run you through before that ever happens so, GIVE ME THE DAMN KEY!" He ordered, staring so intensively at the shy Clerk, he gulped and quickly pulled out a key from a drawer which he handed over
Alexander snatched the key, narrowing his gaze at the Clerk even whilst he walked away with his great Beast that everyone couldn't help dreading. The Clerk looked to Sage, as if scared he'd yell at him too but was relieved when Sage walked on with the angry lad.
They climbed up a short staircase that took them to a row of doors and while heading to their room, Sage asked Anora rather uncomfortably, "So, you booked one room for all three of us, and our Beasts?"
Anora answered with a blush, "Well, we've just enough money to last us a trip to the capital so we can't afford another room."
"Oh." Said Sage sharing a look with Webster which shook its head, disturbed by the idea of Sage and it sharing a habitat with a female
Alexander, sensing Sage's discomfort couldn't help but remark, "Although you could do us a favor and sleep elsewhere, or even disappear altogether." He added dryly
"Here it comes..." mumbled Sage with a sigh
Alexander stomped his foot as he faced him, nearly making a hole on the wooden plank, while Sage puffed wearily when he stated, "Going into that Inn was irresponsible and just about one of the dumbest things you could've ever done. And considering what other dumb ideas a man of your little intellect is bound to have, I reckon we'll be lucky if we make it to the South Terrain, never mind the Capital!"
"Alexander please, it's late and we're all tired, can you just let it go for tonight." Begged Anora with a groan, rubbing her weary eyes
But Sage who'd had enough, spoke up, "No Anora let the Elder speak, since he obviously has so much wisdom to share. But I'll tell you this Alexander, even with your sword in my throat, or Dimlynn freezing my body, be it today or tomorrow, I would've found a way to rescue those Beasts. See, I may not have an education, a fancy title or cape, but I got heart, which you obviously lack."
"How dare you!" Alexander looked so angry he barely managed to say the words without spitting. And when he made a humorless smile and wanted to tell Sage about all the things he lacked, Anora came to stand in front of him and calmly ordered, "No more Alexander… please!"
Alexander gritted his teeth, looking from Sage to Anora and back again like he would add something; but when he saw Anora pursing her lips, he threw his arms in the air and stormed off into their room, slamming the door shut behind him once all his Beasts were inside.
Now Sage crossed his arms and scoffed as he watched the door Alexander entered, "Good grief, the kid has issues."
Still in that same calm demeanor Anora nodded, "Tis true Alexander has been hot tempered and rude to you, but that does not give you the right to claim he doesn't have a heart. You don't know him." she pointed out, and with an unpleased expression she followed suite but shut the door more gently
"Peachy...just peachy." Sage ran his hands in his locks and released a breath feeling he needed to blow off some steam, so his Beast echoed him a suggestion that instantly appealed to him, "Great idea love, a bath is exactly what I need."
He stared at the room where the kids were and knew they'd be okay on their own. Besides, he felt Anora would stand a better chance at soothing Alexander without him being there to fuel his rage. He really hoped to one day discover why Alexander disliked him so much. For now he headed out the hotel in search of a public bath.
§
Sage had wandered for quite some distance before he found his first bathhouse. But the bathhouse was packed with many people bathing together, so Sage ran out knowing he'd never get the scenery out of his head. Back in his village, he'd taken his baths behind the farm in a wooden crate he'd built himself, so bathing with other people even of the same gender was something he wasn't accustomed to. He'd continued to wander about, making sure to remain in the darkest places incase people were drawn to his peculiar face.
Sage searched for approximatively an hour without finding another bathhouse, he came across a forest that made him think of EverShade, except that this area wasn't dense and left lots of space for the moon to shine. Determined to discover where these trees led to, Sage pushed on, asking Webster from time to time if he sensed anything suspicious or dangerous following them.
At one point Sage heard a sound, it was a 'whoosh' sort of sound that grew louder the more he walked. For some reason the area was denser now, the air was humid and a fresh breeze continuously swept past him, instantly relaxing his nerves.
When finally the 'whoosh' sound became deafening, Sage noticed a row of trees bending towards each other with leaves like draped curtains that hid a scenery behind it. Unable to hide his eagerness he turned to Webster smiling when his Beast pointed its tentacles forward, advising him to take a peak at what lay behind the trees. Sage pushed the leaves apart, instantly gasping at the beautiful cascade of crystal blue water that reflected the moon's image like a mirror.
"By the gods, what a sight for sore eyes." He admired the ledge where water streamed down from the Earth before plummeting into a pole of crystal clear water that beckoned him to take a dive
Turning to his beast grinning, he beckoned, "So Webster, shall we take that bath or what?", the latter shook its front legs before climbing down his arm
Sage gave it a curious look, furrowing his brows when the Elaspipus headed back to the curtains of leaves, sending an echo and leaving Sage to wonder, "What do you mean I can start without you, where are you going love?"
But Webster only continued on its way, hating to repeat the same thing twice. Sage held his hips and shook his head, "First the kids and now Webster? Oh well, looks like its just you and me beautiful." He said to the water before him
Even though he was sure he wouldn't be disturbed, Sage only removed his boots and his cloak which he folded and left behind a bush. Like a professional swimmer he dived into the water, grateful the Kenkish Beasts back home had taught him to swim. He remained under water for some time, before raising his head above the water to take a gulp of the sweet air his lungs needed.
While he regretted not bringing his spare cloth from home to rub on his body, his mind drifted back to this morning. He realized, even if the villagers had never liked him, he'd still felt something for them and despite how care free he'd seemed during their voyage, somewhere inside Sage he still mourned their loss. It didn't even matter that the Chief had been about to sell him to gods knew where, if he'd known the hooded men were children of EverShade he wouldn't have let Alexander kill them.
He poured water over his shoulder and chest, his face growing sad and distant. It was funny how much it hurt him to lose all those people when none had ever loved him. Deep down, Sage knew he'd always dreamt of having a family, a place he belonged and it devastated him to think he'd never have it; because whoever sent that Hunter was out to get him, he could tell this individual was relentless to destroy him even though he didn't know why. Which meant he was in need of answers and he prayed the Capital would reveal everything he needed to know: what project he was part of and who he was, he even hoped to find his lost parents or his place of birth. But for the moment he'd focus on cleaning himself.
He sank down in the water and shut his eyes, letting the dark abyss beneath him drag him down. He felt at peace in this silence, found comfort in solitude and the cold of the water numbed his sore heart, giving him a false sense of security. Again he took quite some time before raising his head up. As he regained his breath and wiped the water off his face, an echo-vision flashed in his mind taking him in a sort of trance that only lasted a second. When it ended, he panted for air and shook his head, making his locks squirt water everywhere. Despite the alarming vision Webster showed him, Sage wasn't afraid or even concerned, he was just very tired.