The Lupine Saga 131

Posted on July 9, 2022 by James Ashman

“Yeah. Well, to put it shortly, then. Ruby and I were discussing possible plots regarding the nation, when we were forcefully drugged and about to be killed. Somehow our executioner decided to save us, and then whisked us away to safety in his original home of Grizz. We spent far, far too long leading some simple lives among a nice bearan family, but we were chased away when we found out that Grip had control over the nation, and was paying for any stray citizens of nobility of Rising that happened to be traveling. We escaped, ended up tangling with more bad people in various ways, and finally managed to make it to Hallum. The queen there is Ruby’s older sister, so she made arrangements for us to be escorted home. And so we’re back, safe and sound, though completely worn out,” Va’il said.

“And all that required you to be away for almost a year? That’s not nearly enough!” Zeick said, though he was teasing, the only thing he could do when confronted with something so incredible.

“I agree, absolutely. There should’ve been at least four more life and death struggles, right? I can only count, one, two, three, four, maybe five, depending on how you count certain situations,” Va’il said in response to the jest. Though Zeick had dropped his smile at the count.

“Really? You mean your life was in danger that much?” Zeick asked with seriousness.

“Yeah. We met a few bad people. But it really wasn’t that many. But I’d rather not talk about it, now that I think about it. It was enough,” Va’il said.

“No, I understand. And it’s getting late. But you said some things, and you have me thinking. You said something about plots regarding the nation?” Zeick asked.

“It was only guesses, but Ruby and I thought there was something strange about the regent Jin. I don’t know about him all that much, but we kind of heard his name when we encountered people from Grip a long time ago,” Va’il said.

“The regent? Involved with Grip? That’s a large accusation!” Zeick said. He instinctively looked around to make sure no one else was around or could hear them.

“Maybe, we really don’t know. It could all be a coincidence even, or maybe just someone else with the same name. Maybe he does work for them. Or maybe he’s being forced to, or tricked. Or who knows. But we’ve been away for a year, and the city still seems to be Rising. So whatever we were thinking of back then, who knows if it had anything to do with us being taken away. We never were told why we were supposed to be killed. Captors tend to be silent in real life, unlike in Kelin’s books, I’ve discovered. And then the next time we encountered people from Grip, they were keeping Ruby alive, even traveling back this way. So I don’t know. So many things happened, and yet I don’t have any answers as to why they did. Even the guy who saved us didn’t tell us. It’s annoying. But at least we lived. And returned. So I can be a little happy,” Va’il said.

“That’s disheartening. I mean the sad parts. It’s great you’re back. But you’ve given me a lot to think about. And, I don’t know if there’s a connection or not now, but I think I have something serious to talk to you about,” Zeick said.

“Oh, we’re just now getting serious, I see,” Va’il said, laughing slightly.

“I wish I could joke. But national matters are important. And people treading on the nation’s safety must be held accountable. And if the people who say that the people threatening the nation’s safety are in fact the people that are the worst for it, then we have to do something,” Zeick said.

“What’s going on?” Va’il asked, sensing the change in Zeick. He also noticed a flash of pride swell up for a moment in Zeick.

“I have a question for you, friend,” Zeick said.

“Friend? Yeah, go ahead,” Va’il said, becoming puzzled.

“I’m sure you recall the man Darius, the commander of the royal guard,” Zeick said.

“Yes, of course,” Va’il said. Inside he was thinking there was no possible way he could forget Darius.

“Then let me ask you, from everything you know about him. Was he a good person?” Zeick asked.

“He is a good person. He’s upright, loyal, and honest,” Va’il said.

“He certainly appeared that way. But how well did you know Darius? Was he really a good person? I’m asking this honestly, not with a preconceived answer,” Zeick said.

“I know him in other ways. I mean, Ruby talks about him too. Apparently they are pretty close. She trusts him more than anyone else, I’m sure of that. I know, without a doubt, he’s a good person. I would have some hesitations about dealing with him, for various reasons, but I know that he’s good,” Va’il said.

“You sound as if you really did know him. But if that girl could trust him that much, and if you’d vouch for him as well, it makes me wonder. All right, Va’il, I hope you’re right. How long has it been? Yes, tomorrow is fine. Tomorrow, I need you to come with me somewhere. They won’t question if they think you’re a provisional helping out on that day. Okay, yeah,” Zeick said, speaking half of it to himself.

“Tomorrow? What do you mean? Can it wait until I’ve met with the rest?” Va’il asked.

“This is important. I’m not sure why, or on what basis I can go with, but I trust this part of myself when it says something is wrong. My instincts are telling me that I have to do this. So trust me. Stay here tonight, and I’ll give you my backup suit tomorrow. It should fit you just fine. Yep, I’m still older and slightly taller, it’ll be fine,” Zeick said.

“Fit me? What will? What’s going on, Zeick?” Va’il asked.

“I want you to come with me on my job tomorrow. It’s at a different time than usual, though that doesn’t matter. There’s something you can help me with. And there’s something important I think you should see. Maybe you’re not the right person, but I have a feeling about it,” Zeick said.

“About what?” Va’il asked.

“It’ll be easier to show you tomorrow. Let’s just sleep for now. Tonight, get a good rest without worrying about tomorrow until it comes. I’ll explain what we’re doing in the morning. And I’ll show you something special after that. I don’t know if I should, but maybe it takes someone uninvolved to see things clearly. I just hope,” Zeick said.

Va’il shrugged and decided to wait on Zeick’s explanation later on. Va’il spent the night in Zeick’s house, and slept on a comfortable guest bed in another room. Va’il did end up sleeping, but it took him a while to fall asleep that night. Mai’ou was gone, there were still so many questions he had, and there was still a strong sense of anxiety present. It hadn’t left him, unfortunately. As he lay there thinking, worrying, he thought of Ruby, and realized she could’ve been in the same situation. Happy at returning, but still feeling anxious, as if something was still missing. For Va’il, he could definitely tell what it was. Mai’ou wasn’t there, and all the support she could give Va’il was gone. And yet, there was a second support missing. He hadn’t expected it to be like this. After all, he had to deal with it when the men of Grip had interrupted their journey. He’d tried so hard to prepare himself, yet now the feeling of separation was worse, and barely a day had passed. It wasn’t good to think of, so Va’il tried clearing his mind and allowing himself to drift to sleep.

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The Lupine Saga 130

Posted on July 2, 2022 by James Ashman

Zeick heard the sounds, and listened as his mother walked around in response. He only paid attention for a moment, for he was far more interested in the book he had, his entertainment after a long day. And it was probably just an official or some noble with some message or want of Tralfor, the man he still voluntarily decided to call father.

“Zeick, it’s for you,” Areka called out. Zeick closed the book and jumped out of his seat, to see who could be calling for him so late at night, a very short while before Zeick usually went to sleep.

Areka quickly said, “Don’t make it a habit of having friends over so late,” and then she retired to the master bedroom. Zeick said a word of acknowledgement, and then made his way to the door.

It was a sight he was unprepared for. He’d often use silly expressions to describe his thoughts and feelings, but it’s the first time one of them came true. He was so surprised that he felt weak in the knees, and then he fell to the floor, pale white with fright.

“You,” was all Zeick could say, the shock overwhelming him.

“Zeick,” Va’il said, looking tired and overwhelmed himself.

“You’re alive!”

“I am. It’s good to see you too. Shall I lower myself to your level, and we can continue this on the ground?” Va’il asked, forcing a false grin.

“Uh, uh, no, no, come in. I’ll, uh, oh my,” Zeick said. He then slapped his legs once, and then forced himself to stand. “Come in.”

“Thanks.” Va’il entered the house, and Zeick led him through it, up the stairs and into a room filled with all the things Zeick used, books and clothes and various papers, along with a certain suit on a wooden dummy in the corner. There was a table and some chairs, and Zeick sat Va’il at one of them. He left for another couple minutes to get something to eat and drink, and returned with milk, crackers, and some other small assorted snacks.

“You play a decent host, nowadays,” Va’il said.

“Leave the joking to me. Where in the world do I begin? You can’t just come strolling in casually!” Zeick said.

“Should I stroll in awkwardly?” Va’il asked.

“Yes! I mean, no. I mean, oh my goodness, Va’il, you’re alive!” Zeick said, finally smiling as the truth fully sunk in.

“Yes. And it’s good to see you too Zeick. It’s good that you’re still here,” Va’il said, and then looked down a bit.

“When did you get back? Where were you? What happened? Is it true Ruby left with you? Why didn’t you tell us? What went on?” Zeick asked all the questions in a very short span of time with one great breath.

“Earlier today. As for the rest, they’ll have to wait. Zeick, what happened? Where’s Mum? Where’s Kelin?” Va’il asked.

“Your mother? Oh, that’s right… but Kelin, what do you mean?”

“You know about Mum? Where is she?” Va’il asked, his intensity growing.

“Hold on. No, I don’t know. You’d have better luck asking Kelin, but he didn’t know either,” Zeick said.

“I came home, knocked on my door, and someone else, some other family, was living there! I double-checked, it was the right place! They said they’ve been there for months! Mum’s gone! She’s gone Zeick! All that time and effort, but she’s gone! And I’d thought of Kelin too, but he’s gone too!” Va’il said.

“No, no he isn’t. Ah, I see what’s going on. Okay, Va’il, here’s all I know. First, Kelin is the one who found out your mother was gone. I think it was soon after you left, she disappeared. He looked around the city for a while, but never did find her, or what happened to her. That’s as far as I know. As for where Kelin is, I think I know. We never did go to his place anyways, it was always Pete’s or your place or somewhere else. Well, I think I remember right. He moved some time ago. It was probably some time even when you were here. He’s in the first district now, has been for a while,” Zeick said. Va’il’s appearance still fluctuated through the explanation, from the anxiety about his mother to the relief about Kelin.

“First district? With all the nobles?” Va’il asked.

“He’s a noble too, you know. I guess I am as well, though my status isn’t near his or the others,” Zeick said.

“Even still, that’s kind of surprising. Just what does his family do?” Va’il asked.

“I don’t know, he doesn’t talk about it. Well, are you calmed now?” Zeick asked.

“Somewhat. So Mum left, did she? I wonder why,” Va’il said.

“Cause you left, of course,” Zeick replied.

“Well, yeah. But still, it’s strange. Where did she go? Will she come back? I need to find her,” Va’il said. His eyes watered a bit, but he resisted the urge to go any further.

“Well, not now. And who knows how you’d find her. Kelin spent a long time when he first discovered she was gone trying to find out, but she didn’t leave any hints. Just vanished,” Zeick said.

“I wonder. No, it couldn’t be. Maybe. Zeick, I’ll explain more soon, but there’s something you should know. I didn’t leave willingly. Ruby and I were kind of kidnapped. I wonder if something similar happened to Mum,” Va’il said.

“You were what? Oh wow. Oh, uh, right. No, you’d have to ask Kelin, but that didn’t seem to be it, from what he could tell. Otherwise your house would’ve been different. Nothing was messed up, and the things that were missing, it seemed like they were taken by your mom. He assumed she left willingly, but couldn’t figure out anything more. Or why. Or where. Where could your mom go, anyways?” Zeick asked.

“I don’t know why she’d leave or where she would go. We’ve always been here, this is home,” Va’il said.

“It’s home, yeah. Well, what did your mom ever tell you about herself before you were born?” Zeick asked.

“Before? I, I don’t know. I don’t know about Mum before she was Mum,” Va’il said.

“Va’il, whatever the answer is, I don’t know. I’m not good at thinking like this. You coming back, being serious, telling me you were kidnapped, it’s crazy. Well, I’d used to think this kind of stuff is crazy, but then again, strange things do happen,” Zeick said while looking around, thinking about something else.

“Well, thanks Zeick. I guess it’s a good thing Kelin moved. Otherwise I wouldn’t have come to your place, I think,” Va’il said, and then grinned.

“Oh, so I’m not your first choice, I understand. Wait, you came to me instead of Pete? Oh, I can rub that in his snout!” Zeick said, laughing a bit to himself.

“Pete? Oh, right, I could have. And his place would’ve been closer to Kelin’s old place. I guess I just ran around aimlessly until I discovered I was near your place. But then again, it’s still pretty easy to talk with you about this. Thanks Zeick,” Va’il said.

“No problem. Now, tell me about what’s happened to you,” Zeick said. Internally Zeick felt a bit of happiness that had been missing for a while. Even though it’d been a long time since, he had always felt bad about betraying Va’il in their youth. When they were kids they had all played for a while, before Zeick felt forced to break off their friendship. Knowing that Va’il could come to him nowadays, even if he wasn’t the first on the list, was a relief to him. He knew Va’il looked at him as a real friend, and he could finally let himself fully return that trust and feeling.

“Do you want the full story, or can I summarize it?” Va’il asked with his trickster’s grin.

“What a tease. Well, summarize it tonight. I can hear the full thing another time. Maybe with all the rest later on,” Zeick said.

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The Lupine Saga 129

Posted on June 25, 2022 by James Ashman

Va’il felt a renewed sense of awe at seeing his hometown once again. It felt like such a long time since he had last seen it, but it appeared unchanged. He was expecting something new and different, but relished the unchanging truth that lasted in his memory. The same eastern gate he had left and entered through before encompassed his view, replete with the guards at the towers and entrance. Though their appearances had changed, the situation made him remember a day years ago when he had come through this gate with yet another procession. He had to smile at the fond memory.

Va’il looked at the girl next to him, who was looking out the other window and appeared slightly melancholy. She also smiled a bit at the sight, but it was a complex one that Va’il didn’t have knowledge of. All he could do was let his mind race at everything going on, and take in the sights and thoughts. Above all else, he wanted to jump out and run home, to scream and cry and hug Mai’ou. True, he had grown and hadn’t shown such silly displays to her as often, but today would be an exception, a day where he returned in mind and emotion to that little boy that held to his mother with every bit of strength. It wasn’t really that unusual, considering all that had happened, and all the strength Va’il had exhausted over the last year, physical and emotional.

He again looked at the girl next to him, remembering bits and pieces of the trials they had. He realized they could have had it harder, and that they were extremely fortunate in all that had happened. He watched as her expression stayed the same, but he knew her thoughts were just as complex as his own. The girl he admired for all she had done, all she had shown him. He even felt a twinge of envy when he thought of how she had dealt with it all. How in truth she was the one that’d done far more to save them, regardless of what she said. He laughed internally, knowing that she had faced things head-on for the most part, and yet revealed her own vulnerabilities to him. He knew she had her own trials that she didn’t disclose to him openly, but she was strong enough to show him by action how they affected her. He had his own thoughts on certain matters, and saw how in certain aspects, her own trials were similar to his own.

It dropped his spirits a bit, when he thought of who she could rely on. He’d be going home, and the person waiting for him would be his support for all that’d happened. But Ruby wasn’t heading home to receive support. He knew that. He had gathered enough information about Ruby over the years to know there had to be reasons she didn’t talk about home. And her completely different attitude around Murasaki had thrown him. He didn’t know what to make of the completely different, the weak and downtrodden Ruby, when she faced the older sister Va’il hadn’t previously known. He was shocked at how the older sister scorned and laughed and sneered at Ruby, and all Ruby did was accept it. The girl who could camp in the wilds, run for days on little food, fight grown men as equals, look at a bearan without a twinge of fear, and would swing a sword to escape a situation, was someone different when faced with her family.

Va’il knew this, and it tempered his own excitement at coming home. Even still, he knew it’d be better for her to arrive at home, even if it wasn’t as happy as his own, than to continue trekking in the vicinity of dangerous, hostile areas, even if there were hostile forces at work in their hometown. And, he thought, at least she’d now have more people to speak and laugh with, just like before. Even with her personal situation, he knew there’d be Shiroi. Even though Ruby missed the last year of Makeen’s education, he knew she’d still somehow end up a part of his group of silly people.

He knew Harnes would look at her seriously, appearing stoic as usual, before hugging her with silent tears appearing. Zeick would joke a bit, and then look down as his face reddened with embarrassment while he told her it was good to have her back among the safe. He wasn’t very practiced at being serious, after all. Teena would smile and ask her all sorts of questions. Pete would be, well, Pete. He’d make a huge fuss, and then drop it, and then offer his congratulations. And Kelin would cross his arms and sigh, telling them that it was about time they came back. He’d even hold out a hand and use it to shake Ruby’s, and for a moment he’d look casual, happy, and even pleased, though he’d deny it afterwards. And then there’d be Shiroi, who’d take care of everything else. Va’il smiled at his own thoughts as they entered the city.

Va’il reached out and softly poked Ruby’s check. She turned, a look asking him why appearing on her.

“We’re home,” Va’il said, grinning widely. The midday light illuminated his already bright smile, and Ruby couldn’t help herself from smiling in turn. It was a precious smile, this one.

“We are,” Ruby said. She then took one of Va’il’s hands in both of her own. She closed her eyes and bowed slightly. “And, I thank you. I thank you so much, Va’il. Thank you for taking me home, chevalier. You’re the best, most dutiful knight a girl could ever have. Ever.”

The sudden humility and action from the noble girl startled Va’il. There was something about her actions that grabbed Va’il. He almost didn’t feel worthy of her praise. He put his other hand on hers’ and said, “You’ve said too much; you don’t have to humble yourself to me. We’re friends, right? At least, friends. Whether or not we’re in Rising, I’ll help you if I can. So be proud, high-noble girl. And tell this city a truth it cannot forget. That the jewel it lost is back, and isn’t going anywhere.”

“Ha, thank you. A jewel. Funny. Maybe. Thank you for everything, Va’il.”

“It’s been fun. Well, in its own way, when it wasn’t bad. You’re welcome, precious Ruby. Until next time, then,” Va’il said. He then knocked on part of the carriage, signaling the driver to stop.

“To your mum?”

“Yes. We’re close enough, it’d be a bit much if I waited until we were all the way at your place. And I don’t think I’d be all that appreciated around there,” Va’il said. He then grinned again at the silent Ruby, and then opened the door. He stepped out and closed the door behind him, leaving Ruby alone.

“A jewel looks best when in a setting of precious metal,” Ruby whispered. As good as Va’il’s hearing was, the carriage blocked off enough of the sound. He didn’t hear what she said, nor could she hear anything he might say.

“…” Va’il mumbled something quietly. He then shook his head slightly, and then smiled again. He went up to the driver and waved, and then stood for a while and watched as the procession left. Va’il was left alone in the midst of Rising in the middle of the day. Now separated from Ruby, the sounds of the lively city made themselves apparent in Va’il’s ears.

Va’il looked around to gather his bearings, and laughed when he recognized the street. Nothing had changed, he knew that. It was funny, he thought, that he had expected things to be different from how he remembered them.

Pushing other thoughts aside, he started walking. He thought about returning home immediately, but the day was still young enough that he knew Mai’ou wouldn’t be there. She’d be out working. So although he wanted to see her, he decided to wait for a while. He didn’t want to interrupt her work, and he didn’t want to shock her too much by being home before her. He’d wait until later and knock at the door to their house when he knew she’d be home.

Va’il wondered about the rest, and looked at the hill where Makeen was situated. The sight of it brought him various emotions, and he considered going there, assuming the school year was either over already or just about to finish. As much as he wanted to, he felt he’d rather see Mai’ou before running into anyone else he knew. And so, he wandered through the city.

He avoided places and houses where he’d see people he knew, but he did see just about everything else. He looked at the simple houses and simple families in the fourth district. He wandered through the third. He admired those in the second, while also admiring the various amenities that district had. He even made his way through the first district, admiring all the various noble houses and their majestic estates. The guards in the first district did watch him carefully, but Va’il always made sure to smile and wave at them.

As he walked he noticed he was in a spot that seemed familiar. He looked around and realized he had climbed a certain house near him, which meant he had seen the estate next to him before. He felt nostalgic, recalling his silly misunderstandings of Eason several years ago, and remembered that this estate was one where Eason appeared angrier than anytime else. It made him think, as Teena had told him Eason was a very mellow person, especially considering he was a lupus. She said he was always caring and patient, and had cultivated those qualities even further in his profession. So Va’il had to wonder for a moment, now that he was in this familiar place, why Eason had been so irritated.

He walked slowly as the fence passed him by, and eventually came to the gate, where two massive guards eyed him silently. He made sure to smile and nod, and then stepped back and looked up.

Va’il’s smile faded, and his throat tightened. He looked down for a moment, and then looked up again. He even smelled the air, verifying there was a trace of the scent he knew so well. He blinked, and felt his eyes moisten. He didn’t know what to think. He didn’t know what to make of it. He didn’t know why, either. It bothered him, but he couldn’t pinpoint why. But somehow, in the back of his mind, it made sense. He then remembered he’d read the sign before, but never made the connection until now, those memories so far in the past for him. Knowing that Ruby lived there, it somehow made sense that it was a place that Eason could storm out of in a fit of rage.

“Ruby, what is it you have to deal with? Would you have told me?” Va’il asked quietly. He then left, quietly contemplating. Eventually he decided there was no choice but to leave the thoughts for another day. He sighed deeply, tried to regain his composure, and hoped for the best. Knowing he had nothing he could do, he continued wandering about the city for a while, waiting for the sun to fall further.

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The Lupine Saga 128

Posted on June 18, 2022 by James Ashman

“Tell me where it is!” Jin yelled. He stood with a single candle-torch in hand, looking into a dark cell where a lone occupant stayed hidden from the small amount of light. They were at the very end of a long corridor of cells, sparsely lit and filled with refuse of both the literal and personified kind.

“As before, it won’t help asking me,” said a quiet, slow male voice from the darkness of the cell.

“Tell me, and this’ll be done and over. You know that. Be reasonable,” Jin said, his voice suddenly smooth and calm.

“There’s nothing to say,” the man in the cell replied. He coughed a few times; horrendous, hacking coughs.

“Fine! Well, your constant refusal won’t matter soon enough,” Jin said.

“I’ll be gone. Soon,” the man said.

“Maybe. But you may provide use alive still. I’ll keep you around as long as possible. Or, well, maybe at least until the week is over. There’ll be something you’ll want to hear the good news about soon,” Jin said.

“Good news? I’d laugh,” the man said.

“Oh but it is. Sure, you won’t divulge its whereabouts. Then again, it’s possible you really don’t know, though I won’t concede that just yet. And it’s also conceivable you really don’t have knowledge of him, though that’s far less believable. Though the former is just a matter of search, really. And I’ll have all the time necessary with the second, soon enough. Though I suppose it’ll have to do even if we can’t find it. We’ll just do without it at that point. You should tell me anyways, so the knowledge isn’t lost forever,” Jin said.

“Enough games. I’m tired.”

“Yes, I suppose you always are. Has it been all that long since our last session, hmm? Well, suppose you won’t tell all that you should. You should hear the wonderful news, at least,” Jin said. It was hard to tell in the light, but he had a half-smile.

“It’s not like it matters to me anymore. Stop teasing this old man. What is it?” the man in the cell asked.

“Most wonderful news. As you know, a certain child had been missing for quite a while. Well, wonderful as it is, she’s been found! Oh, but maybe I had told you that much last time. Well, this time, the Queen of Hallum met the girl, and has sent message indicating when the girl shall arrive home. Oh how wonderful, for the lost child to return to her home, her city, her mother, her country,” Jin said, gesturing all the while.

“Don’t you dare harm Ruby!” the man in the cell suddenly shouted out.

“I wouldn’t think of it! Perish the thought! In fact, knowing that she’s coming back, Madam Melonscone and I have decided to work out some arrangements. You see, I happened to notify her of another wonderful development. I had to tell her we kept the information from her for a while since the discovery due to security concerns, but that with the return of her daughter, we should move ahead with securing the future of the country, and reveal that most precious secret to the populace in a grand, dignified gesture,” Jin said.

“What are you getting at?” the man asked.

“Why it’s simple, old friend. The heir, of course. The heir has been safe and sound for a while now, though that’s a closely guarded secret, of course. And though he should happen to be a youth, it must be felt that the young king should both reveal himself, and secure the hearts, and pockets, of the nation. And the nobility, of course. And such a grand gesture, available to those of the royal line, would be the tying of two households,” Jin said.

“You! You!”

“Don’t strain yourself, old friend,” Jin said.

“An impostor, marrying an impostor to her!” the man said, and then wheezed. His breathing had become heavier, and each word required a significant amount of effort to match his anger.

“Ah ha, so you finally drop the pretense, you do know! However, I suppose if you’ve held out to this point, it doesn’t matter any longer. But impostor is such a terrible word. I prefer replacement. And isn’t it fine? After all, the girl was promised to the heir by the prior king. Whether it’s the real one or not doesn’t matter, now does it?” Jin asked.

“My dear Ruby, I’ve failed you,” the man said. He sniffed a bit. In the dark, tears started to make their way down his cheeks.

“Oh, you care too much. I’d invite you to the grand hall for it in three days, but I fear I cannot provide you with a seat. Though I do hope you’ll be around after that, so I can share the good news with you afterwards! Have a good day, old friend. Do send word when you wish to speak on more important matters. After all, you’re the only one I’ve been able to confide in,” Jin said.

Jin then turned and walked away down the long corridor, leaving the sobbing man to his cell. As Jin neared the exit there was a rattle of several chains in a cell next to him.

“Oh don’t get up. Or have you decided to pledge your allegiance? He’s already fading, and it’d be a shame to lose you as well, after all the time and money spent on your training. A waste. Well, maybe there will be a suitable job for you again soon. Once the rest of these matters are taken care of, the new queen will need your services again. Shouldn’t that make you, of all people, happy? Though it’ll be your choice if you want to keep your tongue at that time,” Jin said.

The figure in the cell moved back, and sat with the large sound of several clanking chains. The figure only sighed, and Jin smiled while continuing on his way. Jin left the prison, and entered a waiting carriage. Inside another person waited.

“Well?” Gardos asked.

“Still obstinate. He hasn’t told after all this time, no matter what we put him through. It doesn’t seem like he’ll tell, not even in his dying breath,” Jin said.

“You should have let us take care of it,” Gardos said.

“Please, as tempting as it is, there are still actions you cannot take, even if the only person who’d end up knowing is a condemned man. A man who’ll be gone soon anyways, and yet even I have held back from telling him too much,” Jin said.

“A careless word, it’s true. Fine. Is it possible he doesn’t know?” Gardos asked.

“Yes. It may also be possible that Fidel had something to do with it, before he expired,” Jin said.

“Hasty moves always have a downside,” Gardos said, lamenting.

“Hasty? The planning was fine, the scope of the search was just unexpected! Who would’ve known a king could truly keep something confidential? Not just one king, but the entire line of them! Surely they had some planning on how to pass it down should something happen to them! It’s only a matter of time,” Jin said.

“Proceed ahead as normal, anyways. I’m still not fully convinced it actually exists, but if it does that’d only be an additional benefit. Though this upcoming farce with the nobility and that boy should prove interesting,” Gardos said.

“Yes it should. Fortunate, isn’t it?” Jin asked.

“Yes, surprisingly. She’ll prove more useful alive, probably. But be careful. Who knows what other thoughts she’s had since we first tried to dispose of her. What a mistake that would’ve been, though, and how fortunate she lived. Though I’ve heard that she was able to both harm and escape from my men when they tried to acquire her in Sounderthound. And now she just comes strolling in, with a full escort! Jin, people like that are dangerous,” Gardos said.

“She’s still only a noble girl. Once back in her place, she’ll behave, and it’s not like the knowledge she had before is useful anymore. And please, blaming incompetence on the person they were supposed to escort? This is why it’s a difficult matter to work with your people. Until things are all set, they must work as if they have no affiliation. Besides, are you sure that report was accurate? Wasn’t there a mention of an associate she had helping out?” Jin asked.

“The reports vary, it was probably just a random local in the first report, and they weren’t mentioned again. Even those bearans tried making an excuse regarding someone for their incompetence, but I hadn’t the time to deal with it. It’s unfortunate I arrived here without running into them, but it looks like the result is satisfactory. And with how things have gone since, she’s no longer a threat. An asset even. Anyways, it is always possible something else happened and they blamed the girl. Or they got drunk and lost her. I’m not too pleased with relying on that level of operative anyways. My men would’ve done better. The Head Lord will not be pleased, but that’s a matter for them, not us. For us, he’ll have the highest regard for the current scheme. Secure the trust, nailing in the final pin to coerce the nobility; it’s all quite good. A rare word of praise, even. It’s been a while since I’ve been this pleased, Regent Jin,” Gardos said, wearing a smug smile.

“Oh you honor me, most Holy Representative of the Head Lord Welnic,” Jin said, wearing another wicked smile.

“Now, I suppose you have a play, I mean, wedding, to prepare for,” Gardos said.

“Indeed I do.”

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The Lupine Saga 127

Posted on June 11, 2022 by James Ashman

The morning arrived after a good rest on a plush bed. Va’il slept well, surprised at how he could get used to such a comfortable bed after sleeping on the ground for so long.

He got ready quickly, this time without worrying about any intruding maids, and then quietly waited outside Ruby’s room, sitting patiently next to the door. After a much longer wait than he could have ever expected, the door opened. A hand came down and patted his head a few times. He looked up to see a pleasant smile.

Soon enough the guards led them to where a carriage was waiting. It was stocked full of food, bedding materials, extra clothes, water, and other provisions, and had a small accompaniment of armed guards, though less than a dozen.

This time, they really were returning, the realization finally dawned. There was still that small doubt that they wouldn’t make it, considering all they had been through and the troubles at each leg of the way. But Ruby and Va’il gathered their thoughts and sat in the carriage prepared for the two of them.

Ruby got in first, wearing a more casual, comfortable dress in green. Va’il still wore light blue and white, though the material wasn’t as fancy as the night before. They sat across from each other in the enclosed carriage, and then were driven off, escort in tow.

They didn’t have to run, to save their strength, to save water, but there was still a silence. They looked out the windows, watching the scenery go by. They’d every so often look at each other. Va’il would sometimes stare, and Ruby would look away, though she never did it in a way that seemed as if she cared. They stopped a few times to eat, and they were notified that they had left Hallum at the end of the first day. They slept, and then continued the next day, through foreign territory.

“Hey.” Va’il spoke up at one point.

“Yeah?” Ruby asked.

“Are we all right?”

“Of course. We’re fine.”

“No, I mean us two. Talk to me,” Va’il said.

“It’s a long journey back still,” Ruby said.

“Ruby, you haven’t said anything since then. Yeah, it’s a long, boring journey. You know that. So, are we all right?” Va’il asked.

“Yes,” Ruby said.

“But then, why?” Va’il asked.

“You’re not good about leaving things alone, are you?” Ruby asked, her voice snappy.

“No, I’m not,” Va’il replied.

“I know. I know you’re not. That’s why, that’s what’s best. Because you won’t give up like some other stupid boy might. That’s why it has to be you,” Ruby said, almost mumbling.

“What, Ruby?” Va’il asked, unsure of her meaning.

“No, that was to myself. Va’il,” Ruby said. She then got up a little and turned around. She sat herself next to Va’il. She turned to look at him, and then smiled. “This is better.”

“Are you all right?” Va’il asked.

“Yes, I’m fine now. I’m sorry. I’m really sorry Va’il. I didn’t want you to see me or ask me. But you’d ask anyways, I know that. But it’d be worse if you didn’t,” Ruby said.

“It’s all right. Just be Ruby,” Va’il said.

“I know. And just be Va’il. Keep being my knight. For a little longer, please,” Ruby said.

“Yeah, of course.”

They did casually chat throughout the journey back. They thought about their journey, and talked about the events that’d happened, and how they thought people may react when they came back. Soon enough they noticed the landscape of Farrow, and there was an indescribable feeling at the sight. They both talked as if happy, but Ruby was also feeling extremely apprehensive. Va’il really did want to return home as quickly as possible.

But for Ruby, the important part of the journey now was talking with Va’il about what had happened. Remembering it, laughing about it, getting their stories straight about it all, and getting depressed about certain parts of it. Va’il didn’t ask her about Murasaki any further, and Ruby didn’t volunteer any information about what had upset her so much. Much of it embarrassed her. But she had learned something about herself. There were things that did still upset her strongly, things she had thought she’d put away and resolved. And she also learned that she couldn’t stop herself from breaking down in front of Va’il anymore. She wanted him to see her at those points now. She was comfortable with it. She knew she was both weak and strong. And she felt that she could show all sides of herself to him. For a while, at least.

The day came when a tunnel through a mountain, the tunnel leading into Rising, was in view. And though Ruby was happy, her heart felt the weight, the realization of what her return meant. And the further realization that enough time had passed that she was old enough to stop attending Makeen. The courses were only to go to around the age of seventeen anyways, or sixteen in Va’il’s case. She was no longer the small girl she was when she first met Va’il. And he wasn’t the same small boy anymore. He was taller than her now, and she was a young woman. Looking at him now, she realized just how much he’d changed from when they first were taken away by Derlik. She hadn’t really noticed, since he’d been at her side all the time, but he was different too.

He’d calmed down compared to when he was younger, or so it seemed. Or was it just because of the situation they were in? He’d gotten taller and stronger, and even his face had changed just slightly. But it was still obvious to her that he was younger than her. He still had that air of mischief, even if he didn’t have the opportunity to practice it. He still looked at her with clear eyes, staring at her honestly, almost painfully so. She really didn’t want things to change. But, she couldn’t answer what part shouldn’t change. All she knew was that there was going to be a separation at one point, one she had expected for years.

She had spent some time trying to prepare herself in the past. But the past year had ruined that wall she built up, torn it down brick by brick until none of it remained but one stone, one part that couldn’t yet be budged. She knew now, watching the silver boy, that she would never be able to handle it or rebuild that wall. And that, to her, as painful as it sounded, was better than the alternative.

Ruby had a wish. She didn’t care how it was accomplished anymore. She didn’t care what circumstances arose to fulfill it. She didn’t think she’d be able to do it herself, so she had to hope and wish that it would come true. She could accept anything for it, as long as her wish came true.

“Don’t separate him from me,” Ruby thought, hoped, and wished. She only asked for this and nothing else, thinking anything more than that would be impossible. She stopped herself from wishing for her feelings to be returned, and for her status to change. There was only so much she could rationally hope for. She was a smart girl, she knew anything further would be too much to ask for, to burden herself with. And so, she hoped and wished for something simple, something that could be accomplished in other ways than the best one, the one she wanted but dared not think of.

And then, the day arrived. It was true. The familiar sight, the city of Rising, was truly in front of Va’il and Ruby.

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