《Legends of Tirumia》


 Chapter 1

    Chapter 1


    Endermon Dracu came from a long, prominent line of fairies. Her father wanted an heir (meaning a son) to take over the kingdom when he was old enough. But when she was born he waited until the ceremony to announce her name. There were murmurs of dissent, but he was the king, so there was to be no public opposition. So therefore she was raised as a prince, as much as the king could get away with. The queen however, wanted her more balanced and had her do her princessly duties. This caused Endermon emotional unrest, and she struck out on her own. It helped that she discovered she had earth magic. Basically, she could communicate with plants and animals.


    She was packing stuff in a bag she could carry on her shoulders. Not wanting to announce that she was a princess, at least not right away, she got a set of clothes from one of the servants. She was doing this at night, because she knew her parents would stop her. So she changed and put a couple outfits in the bag. She put in some potions and raided the pantry for food. By this point her bag was getting heavy and she could only put a few more things in it. So she grabbed a pouch and quickly went to her father''s study and grabbed some money. She went back to her room and strapped on her sword. She was a peaceful person, but could defend herself if necessary.


    With her full bag, she set off to leave, but quickly realized that the bag would be too heavy to continue on foot. So she went to the stables. There she saddled up her horse, a chestnut brown mare that she''d had from a colt. She put the saddle on quick and efficiently. She secured her bag, and with a touch of her magic, sent a flower to her mother. With one last look at the castle, she took off at a gallop. With her hair pulled back she looked like a stable hand so she could blend in better when she got to a town.


    Shiloh Archeron lived on the edge of town in a small brick house. She had a large garden filled with flowers and fruit trees. She had a beautiful stone fence surrounding her property. Her house was warm and comfortable, soft chairs and a fluffy couch. Jars of shells, wicker baskets filled with throw pillows and blankets. Soft enough to keep the chill out. Her kitchen was blue, dark blue like the midnight sky. It was always smelling like a fresh baked pie, but no pie for her. She couldn''t recall the last time she ate..... anything at all. She had a powerful thirst, but only for the sweet nectar of life.


    The sun begins to set. She begins to wake up thinking of the days ahead and the adventure she''s going on to find jewels and treasure. There were factors to be considered, such as daylight sleeping and transportation. She had selected a carriage for that purpose. It was long enough for a coffin for sleeping. There was clothes and supplies. The driver was her personal servant. He was loyal to a fault, and would give his life should it come to that. But most importantly, he would protect her while she was asleep and vulnerable during the day.


    She began packing for the journey. A satin ballgown with a diamond choker, earrings, and bracelet to match. She picked a brocade overcoat with a blood red liner. Some of her various leather pants with satin blouses, and several pairs of boots. It took a while, but finally the carriage was loaded. Her clothes were in the back in a couple of trunks. Her coffin was off to one side. A modest table with a couple of matching chairs sat in the corner, and there was a smallish chest with some non-perishable food and wine on the other side by the door for easy access.


    Unauthorized duplication: this narrative has been taken without consent. Report sightings.


    Four monstrous, jet-black stallions were harnessed expertly and she took her place in the driver''s seat, and gently urged them into action. They trotted through the dark streets of her town into the black of the unknown.


    Growing up, Dresden Faewin was a scrawny kid and had energy for days, and was always in some kind of trouble. Disrupting classes, flyaway arrows or off the mark bullets. One thing no one could deny was that he was exceptional at hunting. He stayed that way until the coming of age where he grew into the man you see today. One thing he didn''t expect, was to be able to change his form. This allowed him to be able to hunt better than ever. Not to mention it gave him a better chance with the ladies. Well, some ladies anyway. So that gave him a chance to act like he''d done more than he actually had.


    After a whole, he got bored and was itching for adventure outside his hometown. Securing all his weapons around his waist, he started out. Sure that he wouldn''t need to actually work, he only carried a small pouch of coins. Confident that he could con his way into a bed, or cheat suckers out of money, he strode confidently into the forest to begin his journey. Quickly finding out that no one in his town could be convinced to take him further than the woods, he realized with dismay, that unless he had wheels, he wouldn''t get far in one day. So he got a ride back to his home and started making plans.


    He stole a cart that would hold his stuff, and spent the better part of the day tracking down a horse. Most of the townspeople wanted nothing to do with him, but there were a few that thought he was the best thing ever, and managed to get him a horse that wasn''t too terrible. Understandably, the horse was nervous around him, so he had to find a less skittish animal. He settled on an ox. The ox didn''t care as long as it had food. So after stealing some food, he fed the ox and hooked it up to the cart. He walked beside it, because he felt that riding in the cart was beneath him.


    Rutus Skarmout was the result of a drunken hook up between a dwarf and a human woman. So even though she was an adult, she was still mistaken as a child, or at least a teenager due to her height, or lack thereof. But with a click of her folding axe, the condescension turns to wariness. She had her friends, but she was tired of the mountains. She wanted to go see the world. Her short stature and fiery red hair set her apart from the rest. She had made her armor from watching the blacksmiths. Yes it was made out of scrap metal and leather, but it fit like a glove and protected her from when someone too the ax for a threat instead of protection.


    When she had one too many close calls, her mother begged her not to be so confrontational. Feeling like she''d been slapped in the face with a blackberry bush, she rushed out of the house to avoid crying. Didn''t her mother understand she was standing up for herself? She threw a bunch of stuff in a bag, made sure her armor was in place, and snapped her ax to her side. She made sure no one was watching, and sneaked away. She was certain no one would miss her, and started down the mountains by way of hidden or no trails at all.


    Hoping for a better life, she glanced back sadly. Then with resolution, she carefully, but forcefully disappeared into the trees, her mind made up that anywhere was better than where she was. She would figure out food and shelter later on down the line, but for now, she had to get away.

 Chapter 1.2

    As Endermon traveled near the edge of town, she noticed a man meandering towards the forest.  Not wanting to surprise him, but also not wanting him to be in danger, she got down off her horse and with a gentle command to stay, she set off after the man.  She caught up to him rather quickly and even though she didn''t want to, her princess training kicked in, and in what she hoped was a gentle tone, she asked where he was going.  He said he was a traveling minstrel, and was looking for the nearest town for food and an inn.  She told him he was headed in the wrong direction.  She gave him some money and after taking off her bag from her horse, she eased him into the saddle, and sent her horse with the man riding, back towards town.


    When she turned around to set up her makeshift shelter for the night, it was then that she realized it was a quiet night.  Too quiet, even.  She had just cleared the tree line, when she felt a very sharp blade at her throat.  A sultry, yet inherently dangerous voice demanded that she state who she was, and why did she send away the only meal she had been able to find since she had started traveling, the night before.  Fighting every instinct to flee, she calmly replied that innocent people are not food.  She hoped that it would get the sword away from her throat, but no.  It just seemed to agitate the person further.  She heard cursing behind her and she tentatively turned around.  She saw a strikingly beautiful woman behind her with jet black hair curling artfully over her shoulder, and skin the color and texture of unglazed porcelain.  She knew what she was dealing with, but not how to get away unscathed.


    Before she could say anything, the woman told her that real men wouldn''t stare so lustfully at a lady, like boys going through the coming of age, in a clearly mocking tone.  Instead of replying, because she could tell the conversation was going nowhere, she reached up and undid her hair(which came to her waist, and was a deep sapphire blue at the bottom half).  She said she should rethink her tone, as she was talking to the crown princess of the fairy kingdom, of which she was currently in.  She also said that considering what she was, why did she not kill her when she first arrived.  Why the song and dance with the sword.


    If you come across this story on Amazon, be aware that it has been stolen from Royal Road. Please report it.     The woman''s eyes flashed with something akin to desire, and looked her over like a predator would look at prey.  She found she did not mind being seen as desirable, at least not by her.  The woman appeared to be frustrated by something and she was curious as to what could cause that expression excepting the lack of food.  As if sensing the question, she said she voted communicate telepathically to most, but not to her and it was frustrating to not be able to ''read the book'' as it were.  Endermon smiled coyly and told her that if it helped at all, she couldn''t read her mind either.  The woman smiled and put away her sword.


    With the danger abated, the woman introduces herself as Shiloh Archeron and she said that as enjoyable as the exchange was, she would have to use Endermon as food, unless she could procure some other means of nourishment.  Endermon swallowed involuntarily, and Shiloh''s eyes went to her throat to follow the motion.  Their eyes locked and there was a moment where neither one said anything.  It was broken however, by some commotion further into the woods.  They rushed in to see a wolf cornering a terrified animal.  Now this wolf had gotten into something and was more aggressive than normal. Summoning up vines to trap you wolf, Shiloh had no time to be impressed.  She was hungry and needed to eat immediately.


    Once the wolf was immobilized and the creature had fled, Shiloh was on that wolf and while trying not to create more carnage, couldn''t help herself.  Once sated, she delicately wiped her mouth and with a wink, to Endermon, that she''d see her later.  A statement Endermon refused to internalize.  After all this was a one time meeting.  In a flash she was gone, and a few seconds later, a whip rang out, and she heard the sound of a carriage taking off.  She went back to the edge of the woods, hoping her stuff was still there.  It was, and she began setting up camp for the night.

 Chapter 1.3

    Dawn was approaching so she signaled her driver to find an appropriate space for her daily sleep.  He found a clearing not too far from town that was secluded enough that the carriage would be away from prying eyes.  After taking the necessary precautions, he settled in for the day, ready to give his life for his mistress, should it come to that.


    After getting just enough food for him to survive on, but not away from the carriage too long, the sun began to set.  An alabaster hand beckoned him close.  She told him she desired food and he should acquire it for her.  He hopped down and said he would be sending some food shortly.


    She got dressed and waited by her carriage impatiently.  With her food not appearing fast enough, she zipped to the edge of the clearing to ambush her prey.  Hoping for a strapping young thing to sate her thirst, she was surprised to hear a couple of voices in the distance.  One belonged to a musician, and the other was a mystery.


    About ready to pounce, she was enraged when the second voice sent her meal away, on a horse, no less.  She saw a young man staring after her meal riding away.  Hoping to scare him into being a replacement meal, she silently drew her sword and in a flash had the boy by the arm and her sword at his throat.


    She demanded the boy tell her who he thought he was driving away her meal.  In a clearly frightened, but petulant tone he said that people weren''t food.  She reached out telepathically and encountered the sensation of inky blackness.  Not having encountered someone she could not ''read'' was frustrating and she let out some not so lady like words.


    This lapse let the boy be able to turn in her grasp and see her face.  Then he did something unexpected.  He took his hair down. The blue at the bottom half of his hair was mesmerizing.   Then he spoke.  He said he was the crown princess of the fairy kingdom.  Well that changed things.


    The narrative has been stolen; if detected on Amazon, report the infringement.     She looked at the princess with interest, and tried communicating again. Still nothing.  She asked what was wrong and Shiloh told her she could usually use telepathy to read people''s minds and she cheekily answered that she couldn''t read hers either.  That made her smile, so she put her sword away.


    Still hungry but in a good mood, she gave her name and got the princess''s name as well.  In a suggestive tone, she leaned in and told her that as fun ad it had been she was still hungry and if she didn''t want to be next, she had better find her something to eat.  Endermon looked her up and down with a certain type of intrigue.  It was nice being on the receiving end of attraction.  Whether it was just the moment or something more, she didn''t know because the silence was shattered by the sounds of an angry canine creature attempting to get food by excessive force.  They ran to see what was going on, and Shiloh was shocked to see vines coming up from nowhere binding the creature in place.


    There was a look of concentration on Endermon''s face as she contained the beast.  With a nod of acknowledgement Shiloh launched herself at the wolf, hoping that the fairy was not squeamish.  After draining the poor creature she felt the still warm blood on her face and without thinking Shiloh wiped her mouth off with the back of her hand and licked it off.  She knew exactly what her actions were doing to the fairy.


    After promising to see her later, she ran back to her carriage using her faster than average speed.  She got her driver to get started and she hopped on the back and darted inside to think about the encounter.  As she rode off into the night, she hoped the others she would meet might be as interesting as the fairy princess she left behind in the forest clearing.

 Chapter 1.4

    In the morning she was cleaning up her campsite and decided to cut through the forest on the way to the next town.  With no horse the traveling was slower, but not unbearable.  She had been traveling for a while, when she heard a strange noise coming from deeper in the woods.  She put her stuff down and silently made her way towards the noise.  There she saw a strange sight.  An ox strapped to a cart that looked like it was on the edge of falling apart, stuck in the underbrush.  But that wasn''t the strange part.  A lion was cursing at the beast of burden.


    As if sensing someone watching them, the lion whipped it''s head around and roared at her.  Well did its best impression of a roar.  This made her laugh.  And then a distinctly male voice came from the mouth of a lion.  It sounded offended that she would dare laugh at such a dangerous animal.  All at once, the pieces of the puzzle slid into place.  Now she had never met one herself, but she had heard of them.  She said if they were to communicate better, he must show his true form.  There was a rustle of leaves as he positioned himself behind one of the cart wheels.  She turned away out of decency. But he lewdly said she could watch, he didn''t mind.  She rolled her eyes and was glad he couldn''t see.


    When he assured her he was decent, she turned and saw he had barely covered himself.  She sighed inwardly, once again her princess training that her mother tried to instill in her reared up.  She introduced herself as Endermon and purposefully left her last name out of it, because she had met men like him before.  And if he were to learn she was a princess, he would surely try to court her.  And she was not sure she would appreciate such intentions.


    She asked him his name and why he was so far off the main path.  He said his name was Dresden Faewin and the dumb ox had gotten startled when he changed form.  And nothing he could do would convince the stupid animal to move.  She took offense to that as she could communicate with animals and plant life.  She didn''t want him to know this, so she made it appear that she was simply inspecting the wheels of the cart.


    Stolen from its original source, this story is not meant to be on Amazon; report any sightings.     After a while of looking ''clueless'', she apologized to the ox for the idiot in charge of him and said if he would wait a couple of minutes more, he could have a bit of revenge on the man.  The ox snuffed in agreement, and said that they were never really stuck, he was just hungry and couldn''t care less what the man was. She asked if he had gotten his fill for a bit, and he said he appreciated her concern.  She did all this within the space of a few minutes and with that she told Dresden if he were to get behind the cart and she at the front, because she couldn''t possibly handle so much weight, that they could get the ox to move.


    Puffing up with macho pride, he strutted up to the back of the cart and as he got into position to push, she said now!, and the ox took off faster than Dresden could register. And he fell flat on his face.  He hopped up, hoping Endermon hadn''t seen him biff it.  Her face was the model of concern as she inquired after his health.  He tried to play it off as something he did often, but she wasn''t buying it.


    He tried convincing her to travel with him to the next town, but she politely declined.  She was not interested in being an object to be won or conquered.  She said a silent goodbye and good luck to the ox and he snorted in response.  Once they were out of sight, she went back to her stuff and was glad it was still there.


    She thanked the earth for keeping it safe, but she knew she would not always be so lucky.  Because she might encounter someone who was not just passing by.  She pulled her hair back and set up her bag like a training dummy and practiced sparring like her father had always trained her to.  After a while, she was worn out.  She hid her stuff at the base of a tree, and climbed up for a nap

 Chapter 1.5

    After walking for a while but not being tired enough to ride, because he wouldn''t be caught dead either riding on or behind an ox, he started thinking of which animal it would be best to travel as.  He began with a bird of prey.  That was fun for a bit but got bored relatively quickly.  Always keeping the cart in sight, he cycled through all of the dangerous predators he could think of.


    He had just settled on a lion when he lost track of the cart. He followed the path of wreckage the ox made.  He found it on the side of a path that wasn''t in a lot of use, but wasn''t deserted either.  He tried nudging the ox back onto the path, but the ox just sidestepped and kept on eating.  He tried asking, demanding, and begging, but nothing happened.


    He started cursing and calling the ox all sorts of nasty things.  He glanced to the side and saw a young woman.  In a panic, he roared at her in what he thought was a fearful tone.  He was taken aback, when she started laughing.  Before he could stop himself he said she should be careful when laughing at a dangerous animal.  Realizing he had blown his cover, he would never admit it, but he was glad when she demanded he turn back into a human.


    He wanted desperately to just stand up and change, but she wasn''t looking to give him privacy.  In what he hoped was a suggestive tone he told her he didn''t mind if she watched him change.  She said no thank you.  He only put his pants on said she could turn around as he was covered.  He smirked and flexed himself to put his muscles on display, but there was no reaction.


    After trading names, he started complaint about the dumb ox running off the path.  Not wanting to admit to her he wasn''t paying attention, he told her it was startled when he turned into a lion.  He tried to insinuate that there was nothing he could do to get the ox to move so they might as well get comfortable.  She just kept looking at the cart from different angles.  It was making him mad that she wasn''t even making suggestions to get him unstuck.


    This tale has been unlawfully obtained from Royal Road. If you discover it on Amazon, kindly report it.     After a few minutes, she seemed to be struck by brilliance, she said he should go to the back of the cart and push as she was such a small woman and couldn''t possibly move such a heavy weight. She said she would guide the cart from the front.


    Wanting to show off, of course he agreed.  He got into position and was waiting for her signal, but she never gave one soon he was flat on his face.  He hopped up and said there was nothing wrong with the axles.  She nodded, concern evident on her face.


    He recovered fast enough, but not fast enough to get her to stay, he said they would travel faster together, not to mention the company would be infinitely better than it had been with just the ox.  She said she had other places to be and wished him the best.  He was disappointed, but he covered it up with a smirk and said it didn''t matter as there would be plenty more ladies who would be delighted to ride with him.


    He watched her as he rode off and when he could see her no longer, he made sure no one was looking and turned himself into a large black dog and lay down in the back of the cart finally able to admit to himself that riding was not a menial task.  That and he was tired from doing all that changing.


    As he snoozed in the back of the cart, he daydreamed of a time even he wouldn''t have to hide his true nature from the public.  It was only in his town that it was considered natural and publicly accepted.  As much as he hated to admit it, he missed his town.  But if anyone were to ask, he had all the ladies and he was envied by all the lads.

 Chapter 1.5

    After some time had passed, she woke up refreshed and ready to travel again.  She climbed down the tree and gathered up her stuff.  It was nearing evening and as it was a pleasant temperature still, she was content to wander the forest paths.


    As night fell, she found herself at the mountain ranges that separated her kingdom from that of the dwarves.  She paused to have a bird send a message to her parents where she was and that she was well.  After that, she started up the mountain path.


    She had only been traveling a while, when an axe nearly got lodged in herself.  But quick reflexes barely got her out of the way.  A gruff voice told her she best be explaining herself.  She could tell the owner of the voice was trying to appear tough.  She guessed this person was a literal child, or someone desperate to appear larger or older than they really were.   She decided to see which one it was by calling out that she was just traveling over the mountains to the next town.  A person of shorter stature, and fiery red hair stepped out from behind a tree.  With her hair still up, she resembled a boy, so she was not surprised that the other one was suspicious.


    With slow movements and a calm voice, she let down her hair and introduced herself as the princess of the fairy kingdom.  Upon seeing that the person apologized and attempted an awkward curtsey.  Endermon said there was no need to stand on ceremony, as she was trying to find a name for herself outside of her parents expectations.


    Endermon complimented her on her armor and this made Rutus look almost shy as she said she had made it herself.  Endermon was impressed that someone other than a blacksmith was able to make a set of armor out of whatever Rutus could find.


    This text was taken from Royal Road. Help the author by reading the original version there.     Rutus beamed, thrilled that someone recognized her latent skills.  She still had reservations about how she felt about other types of beings, but she thought Endermon was pretty cool.  Especially after she gave her something to condition the leather with.


    Rutus apologized for throwing her axe again and they talked about parents and jobs and whatever came to mind.  Rutus said if she was going to be in the mountains awhile, she was going to need thicker clothes and Endermon asked for good places to get said things.  Rutus mentioned a few places and in return Endermon told her of a few tricks she could use to make travel easier.


    Talk turned to weapons and their various uses.  Endermon said she could use almost any weapon but preferred not to, whereas Rutus would rather use a weapon than not.  There was shouting coming from further up the mountain, and Rutus''s face paled considerably.  Unexplicably, she gathered her stuff and nearly ran down the trail Endermon had just come up on.  She looked both ways with a shrug and having no answers from either direction, put her pack back on and continued down the mountain.


    She wondered what spooked Rutus so much that she felt she had to run away.  Not getting any answers from the mountain, not only where she was meant to go, but also what the point of these brief encounters with the random people she had met so far on her journey.  She hoped she would get some clarity later on.  But for now she was content to let nature guide her where she needed to go.  Needing a place to stay and figuring camping in the mountains was a bad idea, she found her way to an inn where she paid for a night in a small room.  The fact that it was just a bed with a lamp did not matter to her, she just needed a place to recharge after her latest meeting.

 Chapter 1.6

    As Rutus angrily made her way down the mountain away from her parents, she heard a twig snap, and silently unhooked her axe from her side.  Making an animal noise to cover the obvious clicking noise, she deftly threw her axe in the direction of the snapped twig.


    When a young man appeared she wished she had waited to throw her axe.  But when he took his hair down, he was actually a she.  She said she was the princess from the fairy kingdom.  Knowing that the fairies were the Dwarven kingdom''s strongest allies, she swallowed any curses she might have said and curtsied.  Because she didn''t want it getting out that she nearly took the head off the princess.


    When Rutus realized that she wasn''t going to send for scouts to have her imprisoned, she grabbed her axe out of the tree trunk.  She said she wanted to escape from her parents'' strict rules and Endermon said she didn''t know what she even wanted to do.  Hearing that the princess''s life wasn''t perfect made her a little more relatable.


    During these interactions, she noticed her staring at her armor and bristled, knowing what was coming.  Endermon asked where she got her armor and Rutus said she had gathered extra metal and leather lying around and fastened them together to make an unorthodox suit of armor.  Endermon thought it was amazing as she had only seen blacksmiths make armor.


    Finding out that someone admired her work made her feel a shred of hope and the fact that Endermon handed her a jar of something to rub into the leather to keep it from cracking, got them on the topic of weapons.  While Endermon looked at and admired ger folding axe she marveled at the craftsmanship of one of her knives.


    Feeling somewhat normal, Rutus started to relax.  They weren''t friends but they weren''t strangers either.  They talked about lots of stuff, including the best mountain shops, travel tricks, and the differences in their lives.  Rutus heard voices in the background, and pausing to listen, recognized them immediately.  It was her parents coming to set her on the right path.  Well that was her thought anyway.


    This story has been stolen from Royal Road. If you read it on Amazon, please report it     Noting Endermon''s confusion, she said she was cool and all but she had to go, like, yesterday.  She gathered all her stuff and ran down the trail that Endermon motioned to.  She didn''t mean to leave in such a hurry, but she really couldn''t stand to talk to her parents right then.


    She meant to make a name for herself and nothing was going to get in her way.  Not an admittedly cool princess, not her parents, nobody.  But she hoped she could get in with some tradesmen and further her blacksmith career.  Not that she had one, but she hoped she could start one and she couldn''t do it up in the mountains.


    As she got closer and closer to the valley, she realized she had no clue how to survive without the constant cold.  When she would get off track in the higher elevations, she could always light a fire, but with no need, she decided she could always make camp, and she would re-evaluate later.


    She took the little jar out of a pocket and looked at it.  She remembered that the strange princess girl told her she only needed a little bit for each bit of leather.  A bit on her fingertip ought to do it she said.  With nothing better to do, she shimmied out of her armor and started working the leather bits.


    Once all the leather was shiny and soft, she wiped her hands on a rag she had.  Seeing a scuff mark on one of the metal pieces, she rubbed the cloth on it.  Finding it worked as a polish as well, she got to work until the metal was gleaming.  Until she could get more or find out what it was, she decided it was worth more than any amount of gold or jewels.  She secreted it away to keep it safe.  She settled into her makeshift camp and hoped that she would find her passion out in the world.

 Chapter 2

    Chapter 2


    As dawn broke in the mountains, she awoke to a bird tapping on her window.  She opened it and the bird hopped in and dropped a rolled up paper into her hand.  It was a note from her mother.  She was just checking in, and hoped she was doing well.  She threw in a few tidbits of what was going on at home.


    Tearing up, Endermon almost packed up and went home but a note at the end caught her eye.  It went on to say there were rumors of a magic potion that allowed its drinker the ability to either control animals or influence them heavily.  Along with countless jewels and a lot of money.


    She wrote a quick reply and sent the bird off.  After gathering her stuff, she left the inn and headed to the marketplace.  Or rather the handful of shops in that particular area.  She traded her stuff she no longer needed for things she did need.  She also got food and some small knives.  Not for hunting or anything like that, but for future trading.  Because it was common knowledge that Dwarven knives were of the finest quality and were quite valuable.


    With her new possessions, she bid them farewell, and made her way down the mountain.  Or at least to the trail that would head down the mountain.  After trekking a ways, she found a decent spot to set up camp for the night.


    In the morning, it occurred to her that she had not had a lot of interactions with her father since she left.  She found the most ornate knife she had purchased.  She called an eagle over and respectfully asked if she might drop the knife off at her castle for her father.  With the promise of a future favor, the eagle majestically soared away with the knife in her talons.


    With that taken care of, she packed up and continued down the mountain.  The going was slow as she had nearly doubled what she was carrying.  But a heavier load did nothing to dampen her spirits.  She now had a quest.  Or at least a direction in which to go.  The only thing that would make it better, was if she had a traveling companion.  Finally on flat ground she was thirsty so she thought she''d find a tavern.


    Stolen from its rightful place, this narrative is not meant to be on Amazon; report any sightings.     But, not knowing the area, she had to ask around.  Most of the people she asked, said she should go to Ada''s.  And while she never got the same directions, the gist was the same.  Go through town, over the bridge in the park, and look for the clock tower.  It''s around there.


    She hoped there was an inn to go with the tavern, because quite frankly, she was tired of sleeping on the ground.  No matter how adept she was at it.  She made it to the edge of town by dusk.  Asking the few out late were either too inebriated to give proper directions, or it was too dark to see landmarks.


    After following the vaguest of instructions, she came upon a very welcoming sight.  A two story building that simply read, Inn.  She hoped they would have a room available at short notice, but alas, they were full.  But if she left her name, she would be notified.  However if she wanted less desirable accommodations, there was a tavern down the street that had rooms for people too unsteady on their feet to stay til morning.


    After getting clear instructions she gathered her travel pack, gave the clerk some coinage for their trouble, and headed to the tavern.  She got a room with no trouble and headed back down and picked a table in the corner where she could observe without getting involved.  At one point a fight broke out. And she stepped out to avoid it.

 Chapter 2.1

    Well well well, what have we here?  A very familiar and sultry voice asked from the alley next to the tavern.  She was surprised to find the beautiful, pale skinned woman step out of the shadows.  She didn''t know whether it was the new location, the travel, or just seeing the woman again, she grabbed the lapels of the woman''s jacket and pulled her closer.  There was desire in the woman''s eyes as the question hung in the air.  Nodding, their lips crashed together for a deep kiss.


    The kiss lasted only a few moments, but the impact of the split decision was felt by both of them.  Realizing what she had just done, she tried to get away, but with Shiloh''s hands securely on her waist, she could not leave.  As she tried to get her emotions under control, she watched as the woman openly smiled with mirth.


    They stood there for a few moments more then parted with a silent promise to each other that they would revisit this particular situation at a later date when they could both process this new information at their own pace.  She turned to go in and she could swear she could hear the woman say, ''Told you I''d see you later, Princess''.


    Not saying anything in response, she went back to her table to try to figure out what had just happened.  A few seconds later the woman sauntered in like she owned the place and took up residence in a dark corner of the bar.  They would make eye contact but otherwise not acknowledge each other.


    Their ''let''s pretend we have never met before'' act was interrupted by a loud noise coming from the door.  And for the second time that night, Endermon stared in shock.  In waltzed Dresden.  He didn''t notice her as she was in an out of view corner of the bar.


    Unauthorized use of content: if you find this story on Amazon, report the violation.     Shiloh watched this happen and faster than the eye could see, was over at Endermon''s side.  She jumped and asked where she came from.  Shiloh shrugged and motioned where she had been.  Shaking her head to clear it, or at least maintain some mental balance.  Then she gave her a brief rundown of what happened with Dresden.


    They both decide to watch and see what was going to happen.  They needn''t have worried.  Dresden was recounting his travels to two wide eyed maidens who were hanging on every word.  Rolling her eyes she couldn''t believe the lies he was telling.  Realizing that she had not gotten her drink due to the fight, and then the performance.  She gestured for Shiloh to stay, and went to the bar.


    Because he was engrossed in his story, he didn''t notice that Endermon had approached in time for her to hear his version of their encounter.  In his story he single handedly moved the cart and ox from deep in the underbrush.  He fought off wolves and other deadly predators while keeping Endermon safe.


    As he went to take a drink from his tankard, she ''accidentally'' nudged his elbow when picking up her drink.  Ready to fight, he slammed down his drink and told her to watch it or she''d be scraping her teeth off the floor.  Endermon shook her hair out and turned to his companions and without any malice said she was the one in the story, and it didn''t go down like that.


    Realizing who she was, he got really quiet and tried to come up with a way to save his reputation.  But Endermon beat him to it by telling him if he was going to lie about someone, he should make sure they weren''t around.  Then she went back to her table where Shiloh just raised her eyebrows in a questioning manner.

 Chapter 2.2

    Endermon said she''d handled it but would like to have her drink in peace.  Shiloh asked if she''d like her to ''take care of him'' and Endermon said he wasn''t worth it, but she''d enjoy watching her take one of his companions away from him.  She suggested that she go for the one that was more interested in him.


    Having not eaten yet, Shiloh jumped at the chance.  She reached out with her mind to get the maiden''s attention, and went full on seductress.  Endermon watched with fascination, as Shiloh charmed the socks off the poor girl.  However, she couldn''t repress the jealousy that arose in her watching the exchange.


    As Shiloh and the lass headed off to an unknown place, Endermon lifted her glass in a mock salute in full view of Dresden.  He glared at her and tried desperately to regain the other girl''s admiration, but the spell had been broken.  Endermon snickered.


    Later that evening after Shiloh had eaten, they were at their respective spots in the tavern when the door burst open and a shout rang out.  It demanded the bartender ready his finest ale.


    Endermon recognized the voice right away and angled herself to watch as Rutus prepared to enter the bar.  Everyone inside was getting nervous about this undoubtedly large person coming in, when she entered, there was group confusion.  Everyone was expecting someone a little taller.


    Undeterred, Rutus strutted to the bar.  The whole place was silent until the bartender told her children weren''t allowed in the tavern.  There was nervous laughter as Rutus turned as red as her hair.  But it was not out of embarrassment.  Seeing what was going on, Endermon stepped up to the bar and told the bartender that her friend would have the house specialty.


    This novel is published on a different platform. Support the original author by finding the official source.     Rutus''s eyes widened in recognition and caught on to whatever Endermon had started.  In her most confident voice, she told the bartender that she was indeed an adult and could pay for her drink.  With the disaster averted, Endermon melted back into the crowd and left Rutus at the bar.


    As she sat there sipping her drink, Dresden sidled up to her and turned on the charm.  Endermon watched as Rutus turned from an unpolished citizen, to a starstruck teenager in the space of a few minutes.  She wanted to go over and warn her about what a jerk Dresden was, but the way she looked at him told her she would not listen even if the truth slapped her in the face.


    At one point Dresden went to relieve himself, and Endermon inserted herself next to Rutus.  With Dresden gone she seemed more like herself.  They had a short conversation, but nothing happened.  No warnings, no sworn  oaths of love and affection, just two people at a tavern having a drink.


    Endermon spotted Dresden coming back and with a cheeky wave in his direction, slipped back into the crowd.  On her way, she heard whispers of a legendary treasure.  Everyone had an opinion, but no one knew what it was, or if it even existed in the first place.


    She sat down at her corner table and watched the two at the bar.  They seemed to be getting along well, but he leaned in to say something and she hauled off and slapped him in the face.  After that, things seemed colder between the two.  Then they separated and went yo different places in the bar.  Now with all four in their own spaces, Endermon mused out loud what the treasure might be.

 Chapter 2.3

    Someone near her table swore they heard someone say that whatever it was allowed the bearer to understand animals.  Endermon knew that she must go after this treasure.  She went over to where Shiloh was last seen and heard someone say the treasure allowed vampires to walk in daylight.  She wanted to ask Shiloh what she thought, but she was nowhere to be seen.


    So she gathered her stuff to go upstairs and get a few hours of sleep before starting off on her adventure.  She was just about done when Dresden happened by.  She asked what he heard and he said he heard it was a talisman that when worn showed one''s true form.


    As he left she saw Rutus sitting at the bar dejectedly.  She went and put a hand on her shoulder.  When asked if she was okay, a shrug was all she got in response, deciding that then wasn''t the best time.  But she could swear she heard her mumble that when she got her hands on the treasure, no one would mess with her again.  Endermon left quietly.


    As she settled in her room, she thought about the events of the evening, and how everyone heard about the one thing that appealed to them most.  She didn''t know about the others, but she was headed out in the morning and was going to start looking for clues to this possible treasure.  She sent a note to her parents by bat, and went to bed.


    Waking up to a knock on her door, she shuffled over to open it.  A gloved hand belonging to an unknown person gave her an envelope and then was gone.  She was confused as she was certain that there had been no one who wore gloves last night.  And this didn''t seem like the kind of place that stood on ceremony like that.


    She knew she should be suspicious of strange letters being delivered by strange couriers, but her curiosity got the best of her.  The letter read that if she wanted to find out what the treasure was, she ought to head to the river where more would be revealed.


    Support the creativity of authors by visiting the original site for this novel and more.     Skeptical, but excited, she gathered her stuff and left some change in the room for payment and made her way downstairs.  As she got down there she noticed something odd.  She found she could not remember any faces.  Usually she had no problems with that, but here she came up blank.


    Shaking her head as if to clear it, she stepped outside the door.  She called a bird over and explained what happened and then sent it off to alert her parents.  Not to have them come get her or anything like that, but just in case they might know something.


    Remembering something she had wanted to ask, she was surprised to find just an alley between buildings.  The clock tower bells rang out signaling that it was breakfast time.  Her stomach agreed loudly and she went in search of a market stall to assuage her grumbling stomach.


    After getting some food and other necessities, she inquired about the river.  There was a common answer of a day''s travel across the farmland on the edge of the town.  They pointed her in the direction of the river, and she was off.


    She was making good time, despite her heavier bag.  But she hadn''t practiced in a few days.  So finding a deserted road she set up her bag and began going through her warm up.  After a bit she moved into her actual sparring routine.  After working up quite a sweat, she put her swords back and sat next to her pack to cool down.  She took a drink of water out of her canteen.  She thought about the events of the past couple days and decided that there was nothing that could be done right away, so she decided to take a nap.

 Chapter 2.4

    She must have needed more sleep than she thought, because it was dark when she woke up.  Using the light of the moon and fireflies to see, she gathered her stuff and continued on towards the river.


    It''s pitch black when she gets there.  Thanks to her abilities, she finds a spot to make a fire and set up a makeshift camp.  Because she didn''t know what to do next, and the note said nothing about anything, she settled in the sleeping area with a book she brought from home.


    She sat up when she heard a twig snap.  She readied her dagger in case she needed to defend herself.  She listened as the person got closer.  When they were close enough, she sprang out from where she was hiding and found herself face to face with Shiloh.  Her heart was racing for an entirely different reason than fear.


    She put her dagger away and they stood there awkwardly.  No doubt replaying the scene outside the tavern.  Hunger flashed in Shiloh''s eyes that had nothing to do with food.  It was her who made the first move.  She grabbed the front of Endermon''s tunic and easily pulled her closer.  Not that there was any opposition, or complaint, but they melted together in a heated embrace.


    When they broke apart, one of them said that they must quit meeting like this, and they snickered.  They didn''t let go but stayed comfortably intertwined.  When something crashed in the direction of the farms. They separated and both drew swords.  Then Shiloh zipped off towards the sound, faster than Endermon could keep up with.  Then Endermon heard the last voice she wanted to hear.  Dresden came crashing into the riverbank, literally.


    Against her better judgment, she put her dagger away and walked over and helped him up.  She noticed he no longer had his cart with him. He also looked like he got into a fight with a bramble bush.


    Unauthorized duplication: this narrative has been taken without consent. Report sightings.     She pointed him towards a spot by the fire.  She made sure he had some food and was comfortable.  Then she headed off in the direction Shiloh went.  Not finding her, she went back to the fire.  There she set about cleaning his numerous, but ultimately shallow wounds.


    She asked him where his cart was, and he said something about not needing it anymore.  That meant he lost it, and had too much pride to admit it.  They made small talk while she finished up, and through it all, he kept making comments that added up to the two of them getting closer in the more personal, intimate sense.  Even though she knew exactly what it was he was alluding to, she pretended that she didn''t.


    Endermon asked what brought him to the river, and he said he was after a potion that would let him take his rightful place in the world, as it was going to help him achieve greatness.  Or something to that effect.  She had no time to reflect on that, because she saw Shiloh watching them with an expression Endermon couldn''t decipher.


    Once he was patched up, he found a spot on the riverbank, to ''sleep'', but he just wanted to keep an eye on Endermon to try again, as she had rejected him previously.  She couldn''t resist him forever, he figured, but sleep overtook him and he was out like a light.


    Endermon covered him with an extra blanket she had and went back to the fire.  She had just put more wood on the fire, when she heard the familiar click of a folding ax.  She knew that Rutus had arrived.  She got up and motioned her towards the fire.

 Chapter 2.6

    She deftly positioned them away from Dresden.  She didn''t want a scene.  They talked about what drew Rutus to the riverbank and she said she heard there was something that granted world wide fear or respect to the finder of the treasure.  They sat for a while in silence as the situation they were all in sank in.  After some food, they bid each other good night.  She pointed Rutus in the opposite direction of Dresden, and since it was a warm night, they were all able to sleep in the open with very little cover.


    Well before Endermon could sleep, Shiloh came over and they discussed the situation.  They both agreed to keep what was between them secret.  They didn''t need any more drama than what Dresde and Rutus were bound to throw at them.


    They shared a moment of silence and Shiloh made a movement to stand, but Endermon grabbed her arm and asked her to stay. She smiled and settled back in.  With her arm around Endermon, she stayed until she fell asleep.  With dawn rapidly approaching, she placed a kiss on Endermon''s forehead and quickly slipped away to sleep.


    Stolen from its rightful author, this tale is not meant to be on Amazon; report any sightings.     It was mid-morning when Endermon woke up.  A quick look around told her that she was the first one awake.  She stretched and got up to make breakfast.  As she gathered the ingredients, she wondered what to do for the next leg of her journey and whether or not the others should come along.  With no clear answer in sight, she continued to make the morning meal, certain she''d find what she was looking for later.


    As the smells of food wafted around, the others and a man she didn''t recognize, made their way to the fire.  With rudimentary utensils, they ate in silence as the last bit of sleep left their faces.


    As if sensing her curiosity, the man said his mistress sends her regards and she would join them at dusk.  She nodded and went back to eating.  The other two looked back at him with suspicion.  He went on to ask if they were, indeed staying till nightfall, and they all nodded, as there was no plan in place as to what the next steps were.


    After breakfast, he left saying something about finding his mistress some food.

 Chapter 2.7

    Once she was certain they were out of hearing range, Shiloh rapped on the front of the carriage. He stopped ad they switched places. She could think clearer in the driver''s seat.


    Throughout the night, she tried to get the encounter out of her mind, but it was no use. It had been a long time since someone had affected her so. She didn''t hate it, but she did not like leaving a puzzle unfinished.


    Running out of forest to hide in, and coming up on a main road that inevitably led to a town, she slowed the horses to a trot, and looked for a place to leave the carriage when morning made its debut. Not seeing anything suitable, she went a little deeper into the remaining woods and found an abandoned hut.


    She made sure everything was out of sight, and set about making sure her sleep was uninterrupted. With a note to her driver, she found a closet to barricade herself in so she could sleep. Closing her eyes for the day, her last thought was of the fairy she was certain she''d never see again.


    When dawn finally broke, the driver awoke to the quiet sounds of the woods. He noticed upon the exit of the carriage that he was in a secluded place. Knowing he needed to eat and so did Shiloh, he quietly and efficiently unhitched one of the horses and rode off.


    He had been riding a while when he heard the unmistakable sound of someone hunting.


    He stopped the horse and hitched him up to a tree. There was grass there so he could graze while the driver wasn''t there. The driver saw a young man with a bow stalking a deer. Unfortunately he wasn''t paying attention and stepped on a particularly rotten log. He fell ad hit his head. The driver went to check on him, but it was too late.


    He gathered up the young man and his meager possessions and put them on the back of the horse and rode back to the hut. He did make a small cross as a gravestone marker before he left. When he got back, he set the body behind the hut and went about going through the possessions.


    If you come across this story on Amazon, be aware that it has been stolen from Royal Road. Please report it.He went about his day and when the sun set, he knocked on the closet door and went to sleep in the carriage. Shiloh woke up to a meal at her back door. She ate quickly and set out. She knew she had to find a town, because her meal was unsatisfactory. She got out to the main road and just rode along in silence.


    She didn''t have a destination nor a direction so she went, following the noises of the minds she passed in the night. She drove until morning and found a barn at the edge of the town. Her horses joined the others in the stables and with a few gold coins and some specific instructions, went to sleep for the day.


    When he got up, he made sure the horses were alright, nabbed some food from the carriage and went about gathering information. The town had a tavern that was rumored to be the center of gossip. He knew he had to get her there to get information on the treasure.


    He spent the rest of the day prepping for whatever. As night grew near, he knocked on the carriage. She stepped out and they traded information. She then headed towards the tavern.


    She ran into a snag when she almost got caught having a snack, but some quick mind reading got it taken care of. Out of boredom, she masterminded a poker tournament in the back room of a tavern, and thoroughly swept the floor with them.


    She slept soundly after that. The day passed and she found herself outside a tavern where she saw a welcome sight. Her fairy princess stepped out of a building to avoid the fight that was getting out of hand. She smiled to herself and announced her presence.


    Then she found herself being kissed and without another thought, deepened the kiss and held her posessively. When they parted, she didn''t want to let her go. She wanted to kiss her again, but a loud obnoxious voice brought her back to the present. She left the princess with a parting shot. She said she told her she''d see her again. Then went inside with smug satisfaction.

 Chapter 2.8

    Waking up in the back of the wagon Dredsen sat up and wondered where he was.  The ox had made its way onto a well traveled, but not an obvious town road.  Recognizing that he was on his way to a town, he felt the need for food.  Seeing no one in sight, he wandered in the direction of the town, hoping to find food.


    Seeing a figure in the distance, he grabbed a pistol and found a scrap of cloth to cover his face.  He made the ox stop and hid beside the wagon.  He waited until the person was almost upon him and rushed out demanding all the person''s money and food.  He said if he cooperated, he could escape with his life.  The trembling man did as he was told and then ran back to town as fast as his legs would carry him.


    Dresden counted his money and munched on whatever the man had.  It wasn''t much but it abated his hunger for the moment.  Liking the adrenaline rush the robbery brought, he decided to continue until he had enough money to buy himself the most expensive room at a hotel and some very accommodating  young ladies.  He spent the rest of the day ad most of the evening doing just that.  And depending on his mood, was whether he let them live or not.


    As night fell, he had a lot of money, but way too many close calls.  So he called it a night and looked for a place to sleep.  He was on the outskirts of town by now and came upon a maid dumping some water out of a bucket.  He made sure he made noise to alert her of his presence, but not enough to startle her.


    She looked at him and motioned to the barn.  He went and ''prepared''.   After a little bit she came in with a blanket and some food, but when she saw him lying there her mind went elsewhere.  They had a magnificent time, and afterward he gave her some of his coinage.  He said it was to repay her for her kindness of letting him sleep in the barn without letting her employer know.


    They both knew it was a lie, but they were fine with it.  After one more quick session, he was exhausted and promptly fell asleep.  When he awoke around mid-day, he found he had to be careful because he heard voices from the barn door.  They were discussing the highway bandit from the night before.


    Unauthorized usage: this tale is on Amazon without the author''s consent. Report any sightings.     Wanting to stay and hear what they thought about his escapades, but not wanting to be caught on the business end of farming tools, he quietly tried to gather his possessions.  Thankfully he was interrupted by the same maid saying someone was trying to steal a horse on the opposite side of the farm.  He thanked her, gave her some money and scrambled out of there.


    When he was on the road to town once more, he hoped some of his victims weren''t where he would run into them.  Needing to find a place to hide out for the rest of the day, he found a decent place that didn''t ask too many questions, provided you pay enough for them to be discreet.  And since he had ample amounts of others money, this was not a problem.


    As night fell, he was going stir crazy from being cooped up inside all day.  He went to the owner of the establishment and asked what there was to do for fun, and they mentioned a tavern not too far from there that was certain to deliver what he was looking for.  He got directions, tipped them well, and set off.


    As he rode through town, he found some ladies looking for company.  Promising to uphold his end of the bargain, they happily agreed.  Together they made their way to the tavern.  He bragged that he could finish any fight he started, and he''d put all his money on doing just that.  So when they got to the tavern, he decided to be as obnoxious as possible.


    He stopped the wagon and helped the ladies disembark.  Then with a hand on the lower back of each of the ladies, he boldly marched to the door and kicked it open, hoping for some response, but when people just turned back to their drinks, he deflated just a bit.


    Recovering, he told the ladies that he promised them a good time, so he directed them to the bar.

 Chapter 2.9

    When she got up, Rutus packed her stuff quickly and practically.  She made sure she had all her important stuff close to her person, and the not vital, but still needed stuff, she packed in such a way that it would be easy to use or discard if needed.


    As she traveled down the mountain path, she hummed to herself tunelessly.  If she regretted leaving her family, she didn''t show it.  Not that there was anyone to show it to.  She got to a clearing and decided it was a good time for target practice.


    She spent the next several hours until the sun was making its path to the horizon.  Needing to bathe and eat (in no particular order) she picked up her weapons and secured them to herself.  She heard the skittering of small feet and released a knife with deadly accuracy.  It wasn''t much, but it would abate the hunger that was growing.


    Since it was not yet nightfall after grilling the critter over an open flame, she went in search of a river.  Hell, a pond would suffice.  It took a bit, but she finally found a mountain stream.  She made certain she wouldn''t be observed, and disrobed for a quick bath.


    Feeling better, she dried off, dressed, and set up camp for the night.  It was uneventful but needed.  In the morning she set out for the town that lay at the base of the mountains.


    She traveled by herself until about mid-day, when a carriage was approaching.  Hoping to not get ignored, and get to town faster, she adopted a false limp in which to gain sympathy even more than her short stature.  The driver fell for it and they were off.  She was friendly and engaging and the time flew by.


    Near the edge of town, the horse stumbled and she could tell it was having problems with its shoe.  She hopped out of the carriage and with permission, used some of her armor to make a makeshift horseshoe.  She said it wouldn''t last long, but if he got to a blacksmith right away, he could prevent any damage to the horse''s foot and leg.  After getting her belongings from the carriage and watching it speed away towards a blacksmiths shop, she went to the nearest building to get directions to an inn.  She needed to rest before continuing her journey towards being a master blacksmith.


    Unauthorized usage: this tale is on Amazon without the author''s consent. Report any sightings.  She tried following their directions, but she either got lost, or they were playing a joke on her, because she ended up at this tavern that seemed to have a shady reputation, based on the whispers and rumors she heard on her way there.


    At one point she wasn''t paying attention to where she was going and fell from tripping over a loose stone from the street.  Being of shorter stature, she didn''t have far to fall.  But she messed up her armor anyway.  Hoping she hadn''t messed up her little jar, she reached into the secret pocket she had hidden it in and was relieved to find it whole.


    She spent the next several moments polishing, removing completely broken pieces, and repositioning the bits of her armor in order to make it look better than it did when she fell.  Once it was to her satisfaction, she put the jar and her tools back, and continued on her quest.


    She had been going for only a short while when she heard the rowdy voices of drunk people.  She looked at the nondescript building and saw there were two floors, and therefore possibly a room for the night.  She could put up with loud for the sake of sleeping at the end of it.


    But knowing no one would take her seriously, she remembered how one of her brothers would take a deep breath and make himself louder.  That usually meant he was either in or trying to stay out of trouble.


    No matter, she stood straight up as tall as could be allowed, and with a loud voice pushed the door open and strode to the bar.  She thought it was pretty cool, considering everyone was looking for someone large and mean to come rumbling in.  Because of their momentary shock and confusion, she had a straight path to the bar before anyone could think to get in the way.

 Chapter 3

    Chapter 3


    Shiloh watched her walk in and after taking a moment to compose herself, she walked confidently into the bar.  She kept tabs on Endermon and would catch her looking her way on more than one occasion.  Reaching into people''s minds, told her that no one knew or cared enough to know that they knew each other.


    Shiloh was wishing that she could read Endermon''s mind to see if they were thinking the same things when a loud, broad shouldered man, or something posing as a man burst yhrough the door with two ladies of questionable morality.


    She didn''t have to read his mind to tell her that he had not obtained his money in a lawful manner.  But that was not what interested her.  She was hearing the garbage that came from his mouth and watching Endermon''s reaction.  She could feel the irritation rolling off of her.  Feeling a surge of protectiveness, she used her super human speed to get to Endermon''s side.


    She felt bad about making her jump, but she really didn''t want to see that look on her face.  Endermon told her to stay there, because she was going to get a drink.  She watched as she went up to the bar and bumped the man''s elbow just as he was about to take a drink.  She couldn''t hear what was said, but was surprised when she angrily let her hair down.


    As she stormed back, drink in hand, Shiloh asked if she needed help.  She shook her head no, but proceeded to tell her what actually happened.  When asked if she should take care of him, Endermon said no, but with a mischievous look in her eyes said she wouldn''t mind if Shiloh took one of his companions.


    A quick look told her which one would gain the most from this beast of a man, and not having eaten, would make a fine meal.  Slipping into predator mode, she made her way to the maiden.  And with a few well placed words and empty promises, she escorted her to the wash room.


    Stolen from its rightful place, this narrative is not meant to be on Amazon; report any sightings.     After eating and making it appear like a robbery, she went back to her corner and Endermon was in hers.  They played the ''I don''t know you'' game.  She was about to see if she''d like to go somewhere private, when a booming voice demanded everyone''s attention.


    A short woman in crude armor strode up to the bar.  The bartender looked at her derisively and dismissed her.  Endermon hopped up and smoothed over the situation.  Shiloh looked on in wonder.  She would have kept staring but some insistent thoughts told her the treasure would be at the river.


    Knowing she couldn''t pass up the opportunity, she headed out without a sound.  She quickly got to her carriage and as quietly as she could, left the little town, and headed to the river.


    She had just gotten the carriage hidden across from the bank of the river as the sun began to rise.  She and her driver traded places and she slept.


    She awoke to a note from her driver that said they needed provisions and he was off to procure them.  She decided to look around to see if there were any more clues as to the location or direction of the treasure.


    There was nothing obvious, so she headed down to the river.  Not expecting anyone or anything, she was not as careful as she usually was and stepped on a twig. The next thing she knew she had a dagger to her throat.


    When she saw Endermon at the other end of the dagger, the world stood still.  She had one thought on her mind.  She wanted Endermon more than anything.  With her dagger put away, they embraced.  A crash from the nearby bushes interrupted that.


    They sprang apart with weapons at the ready.  Shiloh decided to circle the perimeter, and zipped off.  Not wanting to go too far she kept listening with her mind for danger.


    Not finding anything, she came back to say she was going to sleep for the dawn was coming, but was asked to stay until Endermon slept, so she did.

 Chapter 3.1

    Dresden started in on a story of how he saved a maiden from certain death.  He embellished many details and painted himself in a very favorable light.  He mentioned wrestling a bear, nevermind that there were no bears in the area.  He went on to say that after saving the maiden she gave him a special reward.


    He was about to take a drink when one of the patrons bumped his elbow, causing his beer to go down his front.  He threatened the offender, but his jaw hung open when he saw Endermon shake out her hair.  She said it didn''t happen quite like he said, and if he wished to lie, to make sure said person wasn''t around.


    So much for them thinking how great he was.  He had barely turned back to the ladies, when a raven haired beauty wearing thigh high boots, a blood red corset dress and paler than average skin stepped up and started chatting to the woman on his left.


    He watched as she left with the woman and disappeared.  He turned to the lady on his right and was trying to be charming, but she had found someone with deeper pockets.  He glared into his beer lamenting his luck, when a loud voice demanded the bartender''s best ale.


    He looked at the door and watched as a short woman in armor that looked as if it had been scavenged from the trash, strode up to the bar.  He snickered to himself as the bartender said children weren''t allowed at the bar.  He continued watching as Endermon vouched for the short woman.  This was enough to get her a drink.  He locked eyes with Endermon as she smirked at him then disappeared into the crowd.


    He had not planned to leave his seat, but figuring he had a chance with the newcomer, he ambled up and sat next to her.  He turned on the charm, and was playing the part of a decent, if not slightly inebriated man.  Things were going well until the need for a bathroom grew too large to ignore.  He excused himself and left the bar.


    On the way back, he heard people discussing a great treasure.  Before he sat down a hooded figure said in a slightly louder whisper that it was said that the treasure would allow the finder to not have to hide and could walk about as their true self.


    A case of literary theft: this tale is not rightfully on Amazon; if you see it, report the violation.     Dresden sat down next to the woman and resumed their conversation.  At one point or another, he made an advance that she didn''t take kindly to, and slapped him in the face.  He was shocked at how much it hurt.  When she wasn''t paying attention, he rubbed his jaw.


    Figuring that not much else would be happening, he paid and went to find his cart.  He stumbled out and passed out as soon as he sat down.  He gained consciousness as unsavory characters were helping themselves to his possessions.


    He pretended to stay passed out until they all left, laughing about how easy it was and too bad he was dead, or they might have had to do something drastic.  He may not have been sober, but he was in control enough to change into a wolf.  He stalked them until they rested to split up their loot.  He took the first one out without a problem.  Taking out the other two was more of a challenge.  He finally finished them off with only a few scratches and light stab wounds.


    He walked back to the cart to see that the ox had broken free and wandered off.  So now with him mad and slightly injured, he gathered his stuff into a bag and stomped off headed out of town.


    He wandered in no particular direction, until dark.  He had arrived at the river where he thought he saw a campfire.  He crashed through the bushes and got told to sit by the fire by Endermon.  She patched him up as they discussed the treasure.  He kept trying to not so subtly get with her, but she wasn''t picking up on it.


    When she was done she showed him a place where he could lay down, and gave him a blanket.  He tried once again to suggest a tryst, but he was too exhausted from his fight to stay awake.  He fell asleep certain that he would be able to find a fail proof way to get her to sleep with him.  He was snoring within a few minutes, and was sound asleep til mid-morning.

 Chapter 3.2

    When Rutus got there, the bartender told her they didn''t allow children at the bar, oe even in the tavern at all.  She was reaching for her axe when s voice told the bartender that her friend would like the house specialty.


    Recognizing the voice of Endermon, she took her hand off her axe and assured the bartender that she was indeed of age and could pay.  When he was close enough, she lowered her voice and told him unless he wanted dwarven henchmen hunting him down, he would serve her and let her be.


    While she was grateful there would be no violence, she wished it wouldn''t always come to that.  It was either being patronized, or ignored.  So she was quite surprised when a tall, dark haired, broad shouldered man with shoulder length hair sat down next to her.


    They talked about their night, the people in the bar and anything else that came up.  She found herself giggling at something he said more than once.  She was aware that something was amiss, but she was having too much fun being seen and heard by someone of the opposite sex.  There was just something almost animalistic about this man that she was drawn to.


    She was unexpectedly sad when he got up to relieve himself.  As she took stock of her situation, she was aware of someone taking the seat that the man had recently vacated.  She glanced over and saw that it was Endermon and she was just checking on her to see how she was doing.  They chatted for a bit when Endermon tilted her head in the direction of the bathrooms and slinked off.


    When he came back. The mood had somehow shifted.  He leaned in uncomfortably close, and made a dirty suggestion.  Indignation flared through her veins.  Instead of maiming him like she initially wanted to do, she slapped him across the face.


    As she pointedly turned her body away from his, a murmur from the crowded interior said something about a treasure that grants instant respect and world wide fame to the finder.


    A case of theft: this story is not rightfully on Amazon; if you spot it, report the violation.     By this point, the man whose name she never got, had disappeared.  Because of the slap or maybe it was just her, she didn''t know.  But she felt depressed and just wanted to drink her sorrows away.


    Near the end of the night Endermon stopped by to see how she was doing, and Rutus just shrugged disconsolately.  Getting a pat on the shoulder, Endermon slipped away to an upstairs room.


    She asked the bartender if he had another one available, and he just handed her a key.  Paying her tab, she gathered up her stuff and headed upstairs.  She briefly wondered which of the few rooms Endermon was in, but put that thought out of her mind as the day''s events had made her incredibly tired.  She put the key into the lock, opened the door, and went inside.  She shut the door, locked it and barely climbed out of her armor before collapsing on the bed.


    She got up around mid-day and set about getting ready to go after the treasure.  She put on her makeshift armor.  She had either stolen,  unused metal and leather bits from the smiths and leather workers, or bought the leftover and unusable bits back at home.


    Inspecting it, she found she''d have to get some new parts, either in trade or paying for it.  She went downstairs and asked where a smith could be found.  After getting directions, she placed the key on the bar and set off.


    Her adventure took most of the day, and when she got an acceptable amount of materials, she set out for the river, remembering the whisperings of the night before.  When she got there she was happy to see Endermon and a fire, she was not, however to see Dresden there.  But she accepted the hospitality and sat down.


    Since Dresden was snoring, Endermon and Rutus had a conversation about the possibilities of the treasure, how things were going, and various other things.  As ot was a warm night, the fire was the only warmth they needed.  Rutus found a spot that suited her needs for the moment, and in no time at all, was sleeping soundly.

 Chapter 3.3

    After the man left, the others looked over their bowls at Endermon.  She knew the answer, but it wasn''t her place to say.  So she told them as long as they were all searching for the treasure, they should stick together.  As they could help each other out, should one find it before the others.  That and traveling would be easier in a group.


    Endermon told them as she was cleaning her bowl in the river that they should set up a permanent campsite until they had a better plan of what was to come.  Sitting on a stump, she said she figured introductions were in order.


    Endermon gave her name, what race she was, and her reasons for going after the treasure.  She looked at Dresden and asked why he was there.  He swallowed his last bite of food, and instead of cleaning his bowl. He tossed it towards the fire.


    Without thinking about it, Endermon fell back on the lessons her mother would give her and chided him on his lack of manners.   He paused, clearly surprised at being scolded.  He recovered quickly and got his bowl and gave it a quick rinse in the river.  He came back and sat down.  He told them his name, reluctantly told them he was a shapeshifter, and wouldn''t say or admit why he was looking for the treasure.


    At this point Rutus stood up and went to the riverbank to wash her bowl.  On the way back, she said she was the result of her mother''s indiscretion with a charismatic stranger that got lost in the mountains.  She stated it flatly, like it was a matter of no importance.  She went on to say she was hoping to become a master blacksmith.


    Satisfied they started making plans for setting up the camp when Dresden asked about Shiloh.  Once again, Endermon knew a little more than they did, but it was not her story to tell.  She simply said her name was Shiloh and that was about all she knew.


    They worked steadily throughout the day and as evening fell, Endermon, with the help of the others, made a dinner that they could all agree on.  As they ate, they talked about their plans for after getting the treasure.


    This content has been misappropriated from Royal Road; report any instances of this story if found elsewhere.     While they were talking, Endermon saw a fox a ways off and excused herself.  She went to it and asked what she could do for it.  The fox told her to await a messenger in the next couple days.  She asked about her parents and the fox said they were doing fine and wondered how she was doing.


    She told the fox all she could and asked if it needed anything else.  With a wave of its bushy tail, said it should be off to get the report to her parents, and that she should get back to camp before things got awkward.


    She got back just as Dresden and Rutus were having a knife throwing contest.  And Rutus was thoroughly trouncing him.  Endermon cleared her throat, and they stopped.  They gathered their weapons and settled back by the fire.


    Endermon settled in too, but was worried about how Shiloh was going to take it. Seeing them all together.  She didn''t have to wait long, because Shiloh strutted up and leaned against a tree by the roadside.  She locked eyes with Endermon and asked if she was late to the party.


    Endermon wanted to run up to Shiloh, but as far as the others were concerned, they weren''t that close, and would look suspicious.  So Endermon suggested she get closer to properly introduce herself.  Shiloh shrugged her elegant shoulders and sat down a few feet away from the others.


    She said her name was Shiloh Archeron and she simply said she was on a personal quest and would love to join them on their adventure.  Everyone introduced themselves in turn and they sat talking throughout the night.


    Soon Rutus and Dresden said their goodnights, and left Shiloh and Endermon alone.  Breathing a sigh of relief, Endermon scooted over to where Shiloh was sitting and they sat there content.


    They talked quietly until Endermon could no longer keep her eyes open, and with a kiss on the cheek went to her sleeping spot, and went to sleep content with the day''s happenings.

 Chapter 3.4

    Getting back to her carriage just as dawn was breaking, Shiloh stepped inside and sat at the little table while she waited for her driver to wake up.  She thought about the events of the evening.  There was clearly something between them, but what?.


    Getting cranky because she needed to sleep, she reached into the coffin and pulled the sleeping man out of there, as you would pull a blanket out of a box.  Depositing him unceremoniously on the floor she eased herself into the coffin and pulled the lid closed.


    After his somewhat rude awakening, he made his way to the campsite and was thankful to see breakfast being handed out.  Though no one knew who he was, didn''t say anything about it.  Seeing Endrrmon and recognizing her from some of the notes Shiloh wrote to herself, told her that his mistress sends her regards and will see them at dusk, providing they were still there by the end of the day.


    She nodded, and he went off to acquire a meal for Shiloh, and disappeared after thanking her for breakfast.


    He made it to town and began his search.  Meanwhile back at the carriage, Shiloh lay there asleep.  Her dreams were troubling.  One because she couldn''t remember when she dreamt last. And two they were about Endermon.


    They were flashes of what was and what could be.  They described scenes of domestic bliss, ones of meeting her parents, and imagining what her castle looked like.  She didn''t know why Endermon affected her the way she did.


    Shiloh grew frustrated.  She was a vampire for crying out loud.  People flocked to her, she could have her own kingdom, should she desire it, and here she was, pining after a mortal woman who could talk to animals.  But at the same time, it was nice to have someone however secret it may be.


    She woke up to a tapping on the door.  After getting up and smoothing the wrinkles from her clothing, went out to have breakfast.  After cleaning up, headed towards the river.


    If you discover this tale on Amazon, be aware that it has been unlawfully taken from Royal Road. Please report it.     She could hear three voices and two minds.  Smiling, she crossed the road and leaned against a tree.  Seeing the obnoxious man from the tavern, she became guarded.  Putting on a fake smile, she asked if she missed the party.


    Endermon was clearly wanting to go to Shiloh, but they weren''t supposed to know each other.  She had Shiloh come closer to introduce herself.  Shiloh agreed and sat down on a trunk of a tree that had recently fallen.  She gave her name and said she was on a personal quest, but would join them if they were amenable to it.


    With that out of the way, they talked about random stuff.  Theories about what and where the treasure was, how well known it was, etc.  Wanting some time alone with Endermon, Shiloh began speaking to the other two''s minds.  She suggested that they go to bed and things would be talked about in the morning.


    If Endermon found something suspicious about the two leaving at the same time, she didn''t show it.  When they were alone Endermon dropped the polite princess on a quest routine, and moved to where Shiloh was sitting.  Relishing the contact they shared, Shiloh was delighted when Endermon inserted herself under Shiloh''s arm, and snuggled in.


    They sat there for quite a while, either talking quietly or just enjoying each other''s presence.  It wasn''t long until Endermon kept trying and failing to hide her yawns from Shiloh.


    Shiloh understood, and gently told Endermon that she should probably go to bed.  Then she sweetly gave Shiloh a kiss on her cheek and went to sleep.  She watched her leave, and just sat by the dying fire, trying to process what she was feeling towards Endermon.


    With no resolution in sight, and dawn rapidly approaching, she sighed and headed back to the carriage.  She patted the horses as she passed, and they whinnied in response.  Writing a quick note for her driver, she got him up, or at least where he could wake up at his own pace, and lay down for the day.  She hoped she didn''t have more dreams to worry about.

 Chapter 3.5

    Dresden lay asleep until a tantalizing aroma hit his nostrils.  He got up and made his way to the campfire where breakfast had been made.  He blearily took a bowl and sat down to eat.  He was just using his hands, but a stern look from Endermon got him using a quickly made but efficient spoon.


    A few moments later the short woman from the tavern also showed up for breakfast.  They all ate in silence for a bit until a strange man appeared.  No one knew who he was and Dresden was getting suspicious.  If the man stayed, his chances of getting with any of the women were reduced by half.


    As if noticing the stares for the first time, he said something about his mistress needing food and Endermon nodded.  Dresden didn''t know the significance at the time, he just figured that the man was having an affair and his lady was very demanding.


    They looked at Endermon expectantly and she just got up and rinsed her bowl in the river.  She said they should state their reasons for going after the treasure.  Dresden noticed her deflection, but didn''t comment.  He finished eating and tossed the wooden bowl towards the fire, he figured he could make another one for the next meal.  When a sharp voice told him to mind his manners, he stopped and was surprised to see the disapproval on Endermon''s face.


    He quickly got the bowl and gave it a quick rinse.  He listened as Endermon introduced herself, then a pointed stare was aimed at him.  He gave his name, and he wondered if he should mention the shape-shifting, he did in the end, and no one batted an eye.


    Next the short woman said her name was Rutus Skarmout and she wished to become a master blacksmith.  Dresden was impressed.  He had never heard of a female who paid attention to, or was interested in blacksmithing.


    He noticed Endermon left, but he didn''t have any inclination to follow her.  He was more curious about Rutus.  He felt he judged her too harshly at the tavern and started asking her about weapons.  No one knows how it started, but they started bragging about their weapons knowledge, and soon they were having a knife throwing competition.


    Love this story? Find the genuine version on the author''s preferred platform and support their work!     It became clear to Dresden that he was being beaten, very badly.  Before he could do anything about it, he heard a throat being cleared.  He and Rutus looked at each other and began putting away their weapons.


    When Endermon suggested they make a more permanent camp until more was known about what they were going to do, they all agreed it was a good idea.  While the design was all Endermon''s doing, Dresden did all or at least most of the heavy lifting.  And when they were done, it resembled a small village.


    Dresden had tried to ask about the raven haired beauty that stole one of his paid companions, but got no answers.  Someone''s stomach growled, and dinner got underway.  Everyone helped and so the prep work went quickly.  Finally it was done, and they all sat around the campfire.  They were almost done eating, when he saw the silhouette of a woman lean against a tree, asking if she missed the party.


    Dresden''s first thought was that he''d show her a party, but he miraculously thought better of it and kept his mouth shut.  He watched as she approached.  Attractiveness rolling off her in waves.  He was glad it was dark or he''d have to cover his lap.


    She said her name was Shiloh Archeron and didn''t give a good reason for going after the treasure, claiming a personal quest.  Dresden thought it was a load of bunk, but his reasons weren''t any better, so he didn''t say anything.


    They were all talking and having a relatively good time, when he heard a voice in his head telling him he was tired, and should go to bed.  He didn''t question it, because he had actually been working all day.


    So he put his stuff away and bid everyone goodnight.  Rutus followed suit not long after, but he couldn''t remember hearing Endermon or Shiloh, he let it go and went to sleep.

 Chapter 3.6

    As Rutus woke up for the day, she shuffled to the fire, which had breakfast for the day.  She was just thrilled that she didn''t have to hunt this early in the day.


    There was silence as they ate, but then an unknown man showed up and joined in for a bowl of food.  With her axe by her side, she watched as something passed for understanding between the man and Endermon.  As soon as he finished eating, he said something and left.


    With no sign of danger from Endermon she let things be and continued eating.  Rutus noticed Endermon getting antsy after he left, but it was because she wanted to introduce herself and wanted them to do the same.  She said her name, the fact that she was a fairy, and why she wanted to find the treasure.  She motioned to Dresden when she was finished.  He mumbled something and tossed his bowl near the fire.  When Endermon scolded him, Rutus was glad she was not on the other end of  that stern voice.  He got up and rinsed his bowl at the bank of the river.  He then reluctantly told everyone, well her and Endermon, that he was a shapeshifter named Dresden Faewin, and he didn''t say why he wanted the treasure.  Rutus suspected it was for general acceptance.


    When it was her turn Rutus gave her name and told the story of her birth.  Well the short version, anyway.  Then she said she hoped to become a master blacksmith.  Everyone seemed satisfied and they worked together to clean the breakfast dishes.


    It was around this time that Endermon excused herself and left the immediate area.  Needing something to do, she started cleaning her already spotless axe.  At this, Dresden came over and started talking about weapons.  Knowing more about weapons than the poor man would ever hope to learn about, she skillfully turned the conversation to a knife throwing contest.


    She was thoroughly beating him to the point of him claiming he had bad knives.  A throat clearing saved Dresden from further embarrassment.  Endermon said that since they''d be there a while, they should make a more permanent campsite. They agreed and got to work.


    Stolen content alert: this content belongs on Royal Road. Report any occurrences.     When they had gotten a plan together, Rutus suggested a training area, and went off to make one.  When she got back, she and the others worked together to get the rest of the place looking good, but able to be dismantled at a moment''s notice, if need be.


    With their campsite up and running and it also being dark, they set up dinner and all helped.  They were all chatting and having a decent time, a dark haired woman leaned against a tree, asking about missing the party.


    Rutus was confused, because they were only having dinner.  Then it dawned on her that the woman was teasing everyone.  Endermon obviously had already met her and asked the woman to come over and introduce herself as she had missed the chance earlier.


    The woman walked over and sat a few places away from everyone.  Rutus didn''t trust her and kept an eye on her the entire time she was sitting there.  She said her name was Shiloh Archeron and was there on personal matters.  With just a name and no reason why she was there, Rutus was very wary of Shiloh.


    But as much as she tried to stay awake and keep an eye on her, a voice in her head was telling her she needed to sleep.  So she finished  her food, and put her dishes away.  She made her way to her sleeping spot.


    She tried to go back and ask a question, any question, but each time a voice told her she needed sleep.  Not wanting to put the effort in to fight this feeling of tiredness, she gave up and once she made sure her axe was in a spot she could get to it at a moment''s notice, or if she ran into trouble while she was sleeping.


    With that matter settled, she drifted off to sleep with the promise to herself that she''d get to the bottom of the Shiloh Archeron mystery.

 Chapter 3.7

    In the morning Endermon woke up to a pile of provisions by the road.  A simple note read, For the adventure.  She began sorting through the stuff.  She had most of it put away by the time the other two joined her.


    While they finished putting stuff away, they talked about what to do next.  They knew they needed a direction to go in, but until they got it, they should stay and work on strategy.


    Endermon wished Shiloh could be involved with the process, but with her sleeping throughout the day, kind of limited the stuff she could help with.  She also had to address the fact that they were secretly dating and as careful as they were, the others were bound to notice eventually.


    Since it was mid-day by the time they got all their stuff put away, it was lunch time.  She suggested Dresden go hunt something, because  Endermon thought he was being whiny and annoying.  Rutus volunteered to go with him.  As they left, Endermon went to the training area, it was more of a large tree with the grass hastily cut.  So she set about beautifying it.


    By the time she was done, and they were back from their hunt, she was pleasantly worn out.  She usually was after a project.  But she had to make lunch, so she did some stretches, and got to work cleaning the poor animal that gave its life for their nourishment.


    Endermon gave the universe an apology and after preparing lunch gave the small skeleton, well carcass, really, a small burial when the other two wouldn''t see.  Endermon didn''t know why, but she didn''t want Dresden and Rutus to know of her abilities.


    During the late lunch Endermon kept quiet while Dresden and Rutus told and retold the events of the hunt.  Finally they got tired of talking about it and talk turned to how to get more information about the treasure.  And each idea was shot down for some reason or another, by one or all three.  Finally they decided to go back to the tavern where they heard of the treasure in the first place.


    This tale has been unlawfully obtained from Royal Road. If you discover it on Amazon, kindly report it.     With that settled Endermon volunteered to go first and they would rotate until they got more information, or until the fox came back, but the other two didn''t need to know that bit of information.


    So with the other two safely back at camp, Endermon ventured back into town.  When she got there, there seemed to be no recollection of the building itself.  She asked around, but no one knew what she was talking about.  She saw the clock tower and opposite that, should have been the inn/tavern.


    However there was just a blank wall.  And no matter who she talked to, or which animals she reached out to, no one said anything about a tavern ever being there.  Dejected, she walked back towards the river and catching her reflection in a window, reminded her that she hadn''t changed clothes since she left home.


    Trading a knife for some basic trousers and a simple shirt she went back to camp.  She told them what happened.  There were various degrees of disbelief coming from the other two and then another voice rang out from the trees.


    It said maybe it was because she went during the day.  They turned in the firelight to see Shiloh.  Then the others chimed in.  If she was so certain, she should go herself.  Right then, in fact.  Shiloh shrugged and was off.


    Endermon knew it would take her no time at all, but would have to take extra time because they didn''t know about Shiloh''s abilities.  She came back some time later.  She said the same thing Endermon did.


    They didn''t believe her so they decided to go the next day.  They also had no luck.  So later that night, they all sat around talking about whether the inn was just a hallucination or not.


    With no answers, at least not satisfactory ones, they all went to bed.  Well to bed and coffin.

 Chapter 4

    Chapter 4


    The next morning Endermon woke to a persistent bird pecking on her sleeping area.  She blearily sat up and asked the bird what was going on.  It said that there was a need for them to go down the river, about a day''s travel away.  She asked why the urgency and it just told her to hurry and flew away.


    She got up and packed her stuff that she would need for traveling.  And since the bulk of the campsite was salvaged from nature and could easily go back to being a riverbank in a matter of hours.  Once she was packed she went to the others and told them she had a lead on the treasure and they had to move quickly.


    They grumbled, but ultimately got their stuff together.  After a quick breakfast and some rearranging, it looked like a place someone had stayed for a night, but no longer.  They grabbed their stuff an headed down the river.  Before leaving completely, they stopped where Shiloh''s carriage was partially hidden and saw the man leaning against the carriage.  They told him where they were going and he was welcome to join them if he so chose.


    Then they headed off for the day.  There was good natured bickering between them as they traveled.  A little less from Endermon, as she was trying to pay attention to the animals as they would guide her to the new campsite.


    It was mid-day as they stopped for lunch.  Endermon was going to break out the non-perishable foods, but Dresden, egged on by Rutus, wanted to show off his hunting prowess.  Endermon rolled her eyes, but agreed nonetheless.  As she waited for them to return, she could finally hear what the animals were saying.


    They said there was a perfect spot half a day''s journey from where she was sitting.  If she followed the river, she was sure to find it.  She thanked the animals and apologized for her traveling companions..  they were solemn,, but understood.  She asked to send a message back to her parents. They agreed, and Endermon was left alone with nature.  She amused herself by making the flowers dance.


    The author''s narrative has been misappropriated; report any instances of this story on Amazon.     When Rutus and Dresden returned, Endermon had to work hard not to outright laugh at a sopping wet Dresden and a damp from the knees down, Rutus.  They only had a couple small fish and Dresden seemed to be in a fouler mood than normal.


    Not wanting to cause a scene in case anyone happened to come upon them by the river, Endermon made a small fire, and speared the small fish on a stick.  It didn''t take long for them to cook.  Being small fish, it didn''t take them long to be finished off.


    With Dresden as dry as he could get, they set off again.  They were making good time until Dresden, who had been complaining about his damp clothes, took off his shirt, much to Endermon''s dismay.  After about a mile, he was not getting the attention he hoped to get, and put on his shirt again.


    They continued down the road in relative silence.  Every once in a while, Dresden would complain about being bored and would drop everything he was carrying and continue on as an animal.


    This forced Endermon and Rutus to pick up and awkwardly carry the discarded stuff.  Eventually he got told off by both Endermon and Rutus, so he stopped doing that.  It didn''t stop his mouth, but that was nothing new.


    Finally, near dusk Endermon spotted an opening in the trees with help from the birds.  This was a much more agreeable spot because at first glance, it was a solid line of trees which was tangled with weeds and a dense undergrowth.  But if you knew where to look, there was an opening between two trees.


    Here they went in and down to the riverbank.  They found plenty of logs and stumps to fit their needs.  In the fading light, Endermon made a fire and had the other two pick out places for sleeping.  Since they dropped everything but the most personal stuff, Endermon was left with putting the stuff away.

 Chapter 4.1

    It wasn''t long before she was joined by Shiloh.  Together they put the stuff where it went, and Shiloh took her deeper into the trees.  They could still see and hear what was going on, but if they were not being obvious, they wouldn''t be spotted.  They shared a heated kiss, but didn''t let themselves get carried away.


    They stayed there for a moment until some arguing interrupted them.  Endermon sighed.  She wished she could be open about her maybe relationship with Shiloh, but that would cause more problems than she had already.  Agreeing to leave at separate times so it would be less obvious, Endermon left first to see what the arguing was about.


    She saw Dresden and Rutus fighting over a sleeping spot.  It had premium access to the river, enough cover so people wouldn''t immediately see what was going on, and ground clearance so yhe sleeper wouldn''t get overrun by insects.


    Endermon noticed where the soil had been washed away and any rain would leave a large enough puddle that would take some creative maneuvering to not get wet.  She said Dresden should take it, and quietly told Rutus there was a better spot across the way.


    Endermon took a spot close to the opening of the trees so she could see traffic or anyone happening upon them.  She put her personal stuff in a hollowed out tree trunk.  She found a flat space to make a bed, and then went to make a fire.  She found one already made and Shiloh had a very self satisfied smirk on her face.


    They sat near each other and talked about the move to the new campsite.  Shiloh recounted how as she was waking up for the night, her driver was hell bent on getting out of the area, as a tree had fallen right where their camp was and had caused most of the area to be under water.


    Endermon recounted the bird''s message of urgency, and Shiloh just hummed in response.  Endermon asked how she got there so quickly, as she had never heard the carriage.  Shiloh said she got the carriage to safety and had the driver stay there for the night.  She would point him in the right direction in the morning.  Shiloh also said that their thoughts minus Endermon''s were loud enough, that it sounded like they were right next to her.


    Ensure your favorite authors get the support they deserve. Read this novel on the original website.     Hearing someone approach, Endermon got up and started messing with the fire.  Shiloh put on her mask and said she was going to patrol the area.  Needing something to do, Endermon started making food for their dinner.  It was a simple stew that she could probably make with her eyes closed.


    Having gotten some actual dinnerware, it was easy to portion out three books and set them on the tree stumps that were around the fire.  They all sat down to eat and surprisingly no one mentioned the lack of Shiloh or her missing the meal.


    When Shiloh ''happened by'' again, she casually mentioned how fortunate they were to avoid the tree falling down and water covering the old campsite.  Dresden and Rutus sat there with their spoons halfway to their mouths.  They looked at Endermon suspiciously and asked how she knew that was going to happen.


    Endermon mock glared at Shiloh and said that being a fairy had her more in tune to nature and could ''sense'' something was wrong, so she got them out of there.  This seemed to satisfy them for the moment and she excused herself claiming stomach issues.  She retreated to her sleeping space to find Shiloh already there.


    They embraced and Endermon whispered that it was so hard to pretend not to know Shiloh very well, as she wanted to be able to not have to hide things, well certain things.  Shiloh said she could always pretend to be under her ''spell''.  Endermon snorted and asked if Shiloh was under hers instead.

 Chapter 4.2

    Shiloh told her that mouth of hers was going to get her into trouble.  Endermon just smirked at her and pressed herself into Shiloh''s personal space.  That hungry look came into Shiloh''s eyes, and they kissed each other deeply.  Not wanting to stop but also not wanting them getting suspicious, Endermon pulled away.  They leaned their foreheads together and Endermon whispered, stay with me tonight?


    Shiloh said she would and darted towards the road claiming she missed dinner and would have to hurry before the best ones were gone.


    When Endermon was certain she was gone, she made her way back to the campfire.  She said she felt better and was starting to gather the dishes to go to the river.  Taking a partially burnt branch for light she made her way to the water''s edge.


    The insects said she was not alone.  She turned to see Dresden standing there.  She said if he was there he might as well help.  He looked surprised.  Not because he was being asked to do work, which he would do the least amount of, but because he was so certain that he was being quiet enough to not be noticed.


    Hiding his disappointment, he joined her by the water, and took the task of drying the dishes.  That way he could claim that he helped if anyone wished to say he never did anything.  In a rare moment of uncertainty for Dresden, he turned to Endermon and asked what she knew about Shiloh.  Endermon was at once relieved and irritated.


    She said she didn''t know much, they met briefly at the tavern and when they discovered they were both going after a treasure, Endermon asked if she''d like to join them.  Dresden sighed with relief, because now he thought he had a chance with both of them.


    But with everything, Dresden had to go and ruin the civil moment by telling Endermon that he wouldn''t tell Rutus she destroyed their previous site on purpose if Endermon slept with him.  Endermon flat out told him he was disgusting, and not if they were the last two people alive.  To drive her point home, she rolled up the rag she was using to clean the dishes and snapped it straight at his groin.


    The narrative has been taken without permission. Report any sightings.     Having finished with her portion of the dishes, she told him to put them by the fire when he was done.  She then headed off to her sleeping area to decompress.  Cursing at her accuracy and blatant attempt to maim his manhood, he angrily dried the dishes, and just for spite, licked every single one of them.  Then he put them by the fire like he was told to.  Then he stomped off to his sleeping area to sulk.


    As Endermon passed Rutus, who wasn''t even trying to pretend she wasn''t eavesdropping, asked if what Dresden said was true.  Endermon sighed and said no.  She just had a bad feeling about where they were and wanted to get them out of there safely.


    Rutus was content with that answer, and went back to getting ready for bed.  Rutus still didn''t trust Shiloh as far as she could throw her, but since she had not proved herself untrustworthy, Rutus decided she would give her a chance.  But if there was any hint of wrongdoing, Rutus would be done with her.


    This wasn''t out of the realm of romantic interests, it was because Endermon was the first person to speak to her like an equal.  And people like that were hard to come by.


    As Endermon lie down for the night, she felt Shiloh''s presence from the treeline.  She could tell by her stiff posture that something was bothering the vampire.  Feeling drained she beckoned Shiloh over.


    Gone was the swagger and self confidence.  There was a look of barely contained rage in her eyes.  Endermon guessed that it was because of Dresden.  Damn him.  She patted the space next to her and they lay there in silence.

 Chapter 4.3

    Shiloh broke it by asking if it were true.  Endermon said no and she told her what happened.  Shiloh looked relieved, but also not convinced.  She said she would be keeping an eye on him anyway.  Endermon sleepily called Shiloh her hero, and snuggled deeper into Shiloh''s arms.  Soon her breathing evened out and she was asleep.  Shiloh pulled the blanket up to Endermon''s chin, and silently left through the trees.


    In the early morning, Endermon woke up and sat by the glowing coals.  It would only take a stick and some more firewood to make it  back into a regular fire, but she just sat there staring into space.  The early morning silence was broken by some scratching coming from the direction of the road.


    It was the fox messenger, and it said there was news of the treasure but it would take several days and could ultimately be perilous.  She asked where it was, but the fox couldn''t or wouldn''t say, all it would say was, look for the signs and was off.


    Great.  Now she had to figure out how to tell the others without sounding like a complete nutcase.  But she had breakfast to take care of, so she got the fire going again and made a quick scramble.  She would figure it out in the next day or so.


    As everyone came to get some breakfast, Endermon started a conversation about what everyone would do with the treasure.  The answers were what she expected.  Money, fame, recognition.  But what she didn''t tell them is that once the treasure was found, and no matter what it was, she was going to go back home and fulfill her princessly duties.


    Endermon hoped it would be with Shiloh, but that was an impossible idea and knew that she would have to do it alone.  Because a vampire giving up her lifestyle to become a suitor for a princess would never happen.


    She was brought out of her thoughts by Dresden obnoxiously tapping on his bowl with a spoon.  She glared at him and told him if he wanted more, he should just get up and get it, she was not his maid.  He said if she would stop being so dumb, she might notice that it was all gone.


    The story has been taken without consent; if you see it on Amazon, report the incident.     Instead of injuring him like she wanted to she suggested they all go to the closest town for a supply run.  Endermon was about to ask the animals for help, when the driver poked his head into the clearing.  He said he would watch the camp until they got back.


    They gathered what they might need for the trip, and were off.  Endermon kept trying to lighten the mood with small talk, but there was either not much to talk about, or things were still tense from breakfast.  Finally, she couldn''t stand it anymore and sent him off to do whatever.


    As he went off, Rutus and Endermon began chatting.  They talked about all sorts of things including relationships and what they were going to do after the treasure.  Endermon said she was going to go back to being a princess and rule her kingdom once her parents could not anymore.  Rutus said she hoped to be a master blacksmith and possibly married.


    They continued down the road for a ways until there was urgent chatter from the birds saying there was a rather large wolf caught in a hunter''s trap, and by the looks and sounds of it, it was Dresden who was caught.  Making sure Rutus wasn''t paying attention, she asked the birds which way he was caught.  Getting a direction, she told Rutus to be ready for a daring rescue.


    With their hands near their weapons, they headed off to rescue Dresden from the trap and the hunters that would surely be checking the trap, if they hadn''t already.  Even with the help of the animals and plants, Rutus still had to use her axe a couple of times to clear the area of particularly thick vines.  Endermon apologized several times, but still felt guilty.  In their own way, the plants told her it was okay.  They burst into the clearing and saw a bloody mess.

 Chapter 4.4

    Once it was clear that Endermon and Rutus were the only two in the clearing, Dresden shuddered and turned back into a human.  Endermon handed him a pair of pants that had been discarded in the transformation.  Not being able to put them on, he draped them over himself as a front for modesty.  He didn''t actually care if people saw him naked, but he did it in case someone came by and asked about the trap he was caught in.


    In no time at all they had him freed, and the trap put back in place.  Needing some reasonable excuse for all that blood, Endermon found an animal that had unfortunately been got by a predator and the predator had been interrupted.  Putting the animal near the trap and partially closing it would lead the hunters to believe it had snapped and fought its way out of the trap.  This way they would be disappointed, but satisfied they at least got something.


    Supporting and half carrying Dresden, they made their way back to the main road.  With no hope of making their way back to camping that state, majority ruled that they set up a place to stay for the rest of the day.


    As the girls set up the temporary encampment, Dresden sat there, ''supervising''.  He did this until both of them threatened more bodily harm if he said another word.  Wanting to keep his entire self intact, he wisely shut up.  With no other interruptions, they got set up in a short amount of time.


    If someone were to pause and look into the underbrush, they''d find a hastily put up, but functional space.  If they were just driving by, they''d see some logs laid down like someone stopped for a few hours and moved on.  This way no one would stop and ask questions.


    As Endermon and Rutus worked through to the night to get Dresden in at least walking order, a voice told them that a certain herb that grew nearby would be more helpful to speed up the healing process.  They turned and  Endermon had to stop herself from replying with a sarcastic comment.  She said that she had that specific herb, but it was back at camp, and it would take too long for her to get it herself.


    Love this novel? Read it on Royal Road to ensure the author gets credit.     Shiloh shrugged elegantly and sat down on a stump, just out of sight from the road.  Together they all got Dresden taken care of.  Well not in as much pain as he could be was in when he stumbled into the hunter''s trap.  It did take several threats to get him to stop trying to be treated like royalty though.


    Once everyone had eaten, Shiloh out of sight  from everyone else, they settled in for the night.  Shiloh and Endermon talked quietly so that the other two wouldn''t hear them.  After a heated but ultimately short kiss, Endermon snuggled into Shiloh''s arms and went to sleep for the night.


    Shiloh stayed by her side until the first signs of dawn.  She kissed Endermon on the forehead and zipped off to her carriage.  She wrote a note and sat at the small table in the back of her carriage while she waited for her driver to awaken.  She sipped from a chalice that had a dark red liquid in it.


    As the others woke up for the day, Endermon got some dried meat and other quick foods for a small breakfast.  She asked the animals for directions back to camp and they gave them.  She thanked them and gave them some seeds and crumbs as payment.


    After everyone ate, they found a sturdy branch for Dresden to help support himself with, and they set off in the direction of camp.  It took the better part of a day to get back to their camp but even though they were all worn out, they all pitched in to make a late lunch.


    As Dresden went to lay down, Endermon suggested that she and Rutus spar for a little bit, to get some aggression and energy out.  Rutus agreed and they went off to have a short sparring session.  Afterwards as Rutus went over to recondition her armor, Endermon went to her space to meditate.

 Chapter 4.5

    After a while, she was calm and collected and heard the tell-tale sounds of a carriage approaching.  She figured she ought to get dinner ready.  Endermon got the fire going and started putting together the ingredients for a stew.  She was not at all surprised when Shiloh stepped up beside her and started helping.


    They got the bowls set on a large flat rock just as the other two made their way into the clearing for dinner.  If there was any tension from earlier, no one showed any trace of it.  Conversation flowed and the mood was light and almost fun.


    If you encounter this tale on Amazon, note that it''s taken without the author''s consent. Report it.     Even as hurt as Dresden was, he still was able to help put stuff away after dinner.  They all went to their areas, content and full.  Endermon was not looking forward to the next day because she had to tell them that there  was to be no more comfort like this for quite a while.  Not until they found their next camp.

 Chapter 4.6

    When Shiloh awoke at dusk, she found herself in an entirely new place.  As she switched places with her driver, she listened to the thoughts of the group.  There was arguing and obviously silence from Endermon.  She wandered over to the opening in the trees and watched her put stuff away.


    After admiring the view for a few seconds, Shiloh walked over and started helping put stuff away.  Once that was done, Shiloh grabbed Endermon''s hand and led her out of sight of the other two.  Wanting to do so much more, but not having near enough privacy, they embraced.  It was passionate, but short.


    Hearing some sharp words coming from somewhere in the camp, Endermon cursed nearly silently into Shiloh''s shoulder.  Shiloh snickered.  As Endermon left to mediate, Shiloh looked around.  She guessed about the place Endermon would like the most, and set about working on a surprise for her.


    Shiloh smiled when Endermon went to make a sleeping space, only to find Shiloh already there.  As they reclined next to each other, Shiloh said her driver heard a tree falling, and fearing it would fall on the carriage, got out of there in a burst of speed.


    Once he was far enough away, he pulled the horses to a stop and went back to look at the damage.  He said it was knee deep in water, with a large tree having fallen in the middle of the camp.  When Shiloh heard Endermon telling of the bird mail, she just made a noncommittal hum.  Endermon asked about the carriage and said the driver went in the direction he saw them go until nightfall.  She had him sleep and followed the impossibly loud voices of Rutusand Dresden.


    Hearing footsteps, Shiloh said she was going to look around.  On one of her trips around stopped by and mentioned the tree falling.  Seeing their reactions, Shiloh retreated, and went to Endermon''s sleeping space.


    With a kiss, Endermon asked if she would stay.  Shiloh said she would, but hadn''t had dinner yet, and zipped off into town to help society be rid of one of its less desirables.  It didn''t take long, not the finding, nor the act itself, and Shiloh sped back to camp just in time to hear Dresden''s indecent proposal/thinly veiled threat.


    Unlawfully taken from Royal Road, this story should be reported if seen on Amazon.     She waited for Endermon to notice her and break the silence, because besides being angry, Shiloh was feeling a whole new emotion; jealousy.  And she didn''t know how to deal with it.  When Endermon told her what happened, she was relieved, but now just anger was what she felt.


    Snuggling in, Endermon sleepily called Shiloh her hero and fell asleep.  Once she was out, Shiloh pulled the blanket up and went to the carriage.  Since it was a little ways away she had to walk a bit to get there.  Once there she was unexpectedly exhausted and couldn''t wait for dawn to arrive, so she could sleep.


    She had no idea what went on as she slept.  She just knew that an injury happened.  When she awoke, she followed the smell of blood to an injured but still being obnoxious, Dresden and it took a couple of deep breaths to not drain him then and there.  Composing herself, she mentioned a healing herb.  With a flat response from Endermon, Shiloh seemed unaffected and together they helped patch up Dresden.


    Not super hungry, Shiloh subdued an animal and ate.  Coming back, it was late and almost morning, so after Endermon went to sleep, Shiloh went off to have some supplemental blood, due to her light dinner.


    Shiloh went to sleep for the day, waking at dusk and feeling the carriage stop.  Once her driver was asleep, she went to the clearing and helped Endermon make dinner.


    As they set out the bowls of food, the other two came into the clearing.  The conversation came easy and there were no bad feelings.


    Sensing there was something serious brewing on the horizon, Shiloh bid Endermon a silent goodnight, and headed off to her carriage.  Uncertain what lie ahead, but knowing she was ready for it all.

 Chapter 4.7

    Getting up for the day, Dresden was dismayed that they had to leave their campsite.  But with a no nonsense tone from Endermon, he gathered up only what couldn''t be left behind and started down the road.


    He was surprised, however, when they stopped a little ways away and saw the strange man leaning against a black carriage with two monster stallions hitched up to it.  He watched as Endermon said a few words to the man, and then they were off again.


    There was teasing between them all, but a comment from Rutus made Dresden feel he needed to prove himself.  He said he could catch their lunch in a matter of minutes.  Rutus just said, yeah right.  And a challenge was laid down.


    They looked to Endermon for permission, and when she gave it, they took off towards the river.  Not looking where he was going, he tripped over a root that was sticking up above the soil.  Landing in about a foot of water, he tried to make it look like he dove in after a fish, but was mad to see Rutus down the river a bit with two fish on a bit of string.  Sulking, they went back to where Endermon was sitting.  They then went off the main path where Endermon made a small fire.


    They ate the fish and in that time, Dresden got relatively dry.  They set off and hoping to get a reaction, took off his shirt, complaining of dampness.  After a brief recoil, Endermon and Rutus largely ignored him.  Upset, Dresden put his shirt back on.  As they continued down the road, Dresden began to complain that he was bored.


    So he quickly stripped and continued on as a dog.  He got great delight watching the ladies have to pick up after him.  So he did this multiple times.  After being scolded by Noth Rutus and Endermon, he stopped.  He didn''t stop making comments until they got to what Endermon deemed their new campsite.


    Dropping everything, he and Rutus ran around trying to get the best sleeping spot.  Noticing that Rutus had her eye on prime riverbank realty, he rudely called out that it was his spot, as he had seen it first.  He pumped his fist in victory when Endermon said he deserved the spot.  He watched smugly as Rutus went across the clearing to another spot.


    Unauthorized tale usage: if you spot this story on Amazon, report the violation.     After rearranging the foliage to make a bed, he wandered into the clearing.  The black haired woman said she would be patrolling the area.  Dresden wondered when she got there, but with dinner being made, he found he didn''t actually care.  Once they were all eating, the woman poked her head in and said something about a tree falling on their old campsite.


    He and Rutus exchanged glances and asked how she knew that was going to happen.  Endermon said something about being a fairy and more in tune with nature, blah blah blah.  Endermon then said she had stomach issues and disappeared to her sleeping area.


    A little while later she came back and started cleaning up after dinner like nothing had happened.  He watched her go and followed her silently to get answers one way or another.  When she turned to him to order him to help, he was momentarily startled.  How did she know he was there?  He grabbed a rag and began half heartedly drying the dishes.  Hoping for gossip or a weakness from the black haired woman, he asked about Shiloh.


    He then tried to bribe Endermon into sleeping with him, but got a towel snap to the groin.  She left and told him to put the dishes away.  He did, but he licked them first.  The next morning, after breakfast they went for supplies.


    Dresden was pestering everyone until Endermon sent him off.  Blowing off steam, he stripped and turned into a wolf, then immediately got caught in a trap.  And no matter how he struggled, he couldn''t get free.


    The other two arrived, freed him, and he set about being the most unhelpful he could be.  After being threatened, they settled in for the night.  The next day they went back to the camp.  No one was in a bad mood and they talked freely.  With his injuries and a little rest, he went and laid down.  He healed faster than others and would be mostly better in the morning.  He went to sleep and slept soundly.

 Chapter 4.8

    Waking up to the smell of breakfast, Rutus sat down near the fire to find Endermon in a slightly agitated state.  Seeing them both, Endermon said she had a lead on the treasure, but they had to leave within a few minutes.  She instructed them to leave anything that couldn''t easily be explained away.


    As they packed and made the place look like someone or someones had only been there a short while.  They left and continued down the river.  They paused to talk to the strange man they saw the first time and continued on.


    There was banter, mainly between Rutus and Dresden.  Rutus noted Endermon''s silence but didn''t dwell on it.  They had been traveling a while and Rutus''s stomach growled.  She watched as Endermon started to get the non-perishable stuff, and Dresden said he could catch something more filling, and Rutus said he couldn''t catch a cold in a rainstorm.


    Getting reluctant permission from Endermon, Rutus and Dresden set off.  Getting some string and a small hook from a small pocket she went down to the riverbank and cast her makeshift line.  She heard a splash and a curse as she caught a small fish.  She caught another one as Dresden was getting up from the water.  When they got back to where Endermon was, they had a small lunch of the two fish.


    They set off again and a nearly dry Dresden took off his shirt.  Endermon was annoyed, but Rutus could get away with staring at his large shoulders and chiseled abs.  She wouldn''t admit it, but Rutus liked the physicality of Dresden.  His attitude, not so much.  She was disappointed when he put his shirt back on.


    When he started changing into random animals and dropping everything he was carrying, making the girls pick up what he dropped, it began to get annoying.  Once Rutus threatened his manhood, he stopped, but did not stop talking.


    They stopped at an unremarkable stretch of road.  When Endermon disappeared into the trees, Rutus found they were at their new campsite.  After the fire was lit, they went to find their individual sleeping areas.  Rutus had just found a great spot when Dresden barged in and said he saw it first.  They started arguing when Endermon showed up and subtly pointed out the eroded soil and the branches that would undoubtedly be no help at all.  Rutus agreed when Endermon suggested she go across the way.


    If you come across this story on Amazon, be aware that it has been stolen from Royal Road. Please report it.     After getting settled in, she went to the clearing where Endermon was making dinner.  Things were fine until Shiloh stuck her head in and said a tree fell on their old campsite.  She asked Endermon about it and she said that fairies were much more in tune to nature, or something like that.


    After dinner she wanted to ask Endermon about it, but found her leaving with the dishes and Dresden following her.  They didn''t notice her witness their whole conversation.  After the towel snap, Rutus stuck around to ask if it were true and Endermon said no.


    Being the only person to treat Rutus like a person, Endermon was the only one she trusted absolutely.  So at breakfast the next day, she spoke frankly about what she would do with the treasure. When Dresden made a rude and insensitive comment Endermon stiffened and then said they should gather up stuff for a day''s worth of traveling to get to town for supplies.


    After a bit Dresden ran off to do whatever.  She and Endermon chatted for a while until Endermon told her to get ready for a rescue.  They had to save Dresden from a trap.


    With Dresden too injured to go back to camp, they made a makeshift one a little bit down the road.  When they got set up, Shiloh appeared and helped with dinner.  The next day they made it back to their camp and Endermon suggested a sparring session.  Both said they wouldn''t hold back, and throughout the rest of the day, they released energy and aggressions.


    When they were done Rutus had to get the dents out of her armor and stitch together any tears.  When dinnertime came, they had a hearty stew.  It was a time for friendship, and good food.  Even Shiloh joined in.


    Later that night they all went to bed content.  Rutus dreamed of the adventure yet to come.

 Chapter 5

    Chapter 5


    Right after dawn, Endermon started dismantling the campsite.  She got her sleeping area done and started making breakfast in between taking down the clearing.  As she worked, the other two made their way to the small fire Endermon had made.


    They picked up their bowls and ate in silence.  Well as silent as taking down a campsite could be.  Finally Dresden broke the silence and asked her what the hell she thought she was doing.  Endermon paused and said there was rumors of the treasure in a cave by the seaside, and it would take several days to get there.


    The other two sat there stunned and then asked how she knew that when they hadn''t heard anything.  Endermon said she had her sources and they could come with her to find out if it was true, or they could make their way back home.  Still skeptical, they finished their breakfast, but started taking down the rest of the campsite.


    Together they rearranged the trees and foliage to look only mildly messed with.  They gathered all the important stuff into bags and designated one for each of them to carry.  With no cart and no one daring to ask the driver if they could use the carriage, they had to only take what was absolutely necessary.


    They agreed to sell or trade the redundant stuff in the nearest town, or if they were lucky enough to find a traveling merchant on the way.  They also needed directions.  They couldn''t very well go around telling them a bird told me, or I heard the insects.


    Endermon told the other two to start without her, as she claimed she had to use the lavatory.  They shrugged and started down the road.  Once they were out of sight, she did a sweep and apologized to the wildlife and convinced the grass to grow around the firepit.  Swearing to make time to meditate later, she asked the birds to send word to her parents and have them check on Rutus''s parents and to see if they could find anything on Dresden.


    With the nature portion of the takedown complete, she headed down the road to catch up with the other two.  They hadn''t gotten very far, having gotten into an argument about whether they should trust Endermon.  Dresden was saying no, and Rutus was saying yes.  When they saw Endermon approaching, they stopped, not knowing what she heard.


    This story has been taken without authorization. Report any sightings.     Endermon pretended she hadn''t heard anything for the sake of the trip, and they started walking down the road.  For a while, it was comfortable silence, until boredom set in.  Rutus had been whittling to keep her hands busy and that gave Endermon an idea.


    She quickly told the birds to warn her if anyone was coming and grabbed a branch at the side of the road.  Between her and Rutus, they made several rounded tipped twigs to use as projectiles.  Making a small batch of mud, they dipped the rounded ends into it and told Dresden to change into something white.


    He chose a big white dog, and the game was on.  Any mud he got on himself from the twigs was a point to the one who threw it.  To tell whose was whose, Rutus put notches in the flat end of hers.


    Dresden took off and the other two tried, and mostly succeeded in hitting him several times.  Half way through, they stopped counting and by the time they had list all their sticks, they were all quite hungry.  Breaking out the dried and other non-perishable items, they sat and had a quick lunch.  Once they had retrieved their stuff, they were all in a pretty good mood.


    And with their hunger mostly sated, and their spirits high, they were able to make pretty good time.  With the sun going down, they began looking for a suitable place to sleep for the night.  Tired of sleeping on the ground, they hoped for a building, or at least an abandoned cart.


    Not finding anything resembling home comforts, they set up a small fire and positioned themselves around it.  It wasn''t much but it was warm and there was enough space for a small meal.  They ate and settled in for the night hoping for better accommodations the next day.

 Chapter 5.1

    As Endermon lay there, not quite asleep, she heard a twig snap coming from where they just came from.  Sitting upright, she looked at her companions, hoping they hadn''t heard it too.  They hadn''t, or at least they didn''t appear to have.  She got up silently, and went towards the noise.


    She hoped it was just an animal, so she could get back to sleep.  But before she knew it, she was being pulled behind a tree.  In the darkness she saw pale skin and dark hungry eyes.  She had never been so thankful to be surprised by Shiloh.


    Their kiss soon turned into a heavy petting session.  There were hands going everywhere but before it could get out of hand as it were, they stopped, with great reluctance.  It was clear they both wished for somewhere with the option of privacy.


    Staying in each other''s arms, they discussed what was coming.  The constant travel, the treasure what it might be, and whether it even existed.  Endermon said the animals told her about a cave by the seaside where some pirate activity had been in decline in the last several years or so.


    Shiloh couldn''t even mask her amusement.  She started teasing Endermon about talking to the animals.  Endermon buried her face in her hands and Shiloh found it incredibly endearing.   After gently lifting Endermon''s face with one hand, they shared one last kiss and Shiloh said Endermon should get back to the other two and they would see each other the next night.


    Endermon smiled and headed back to the small fire that was slowly dying.  She added a few small branches and went to sleep.  She dreamed the dreamless sleep that came with the truly tired.  She was only awakened when Rutus and Dresden were arguing about who was going to make breakfast.  Not who was going to make it, more of what was being made and how to make it.  Sitting up and rubbing the sleep out of her eyes, Endermon quickly assessed the situation and directed then how to fix it.


    Only being marginally chewy and bland, it was a decent breakfast.  While they were eating, they discussed needing directions and supplies.  Still not wanting to show her abilities, she said they should make their way into town to trade and stock up.


    Enjoying the story? Show your support by reading it on the official site.     They all agreed this was a solid plan and started down the road into town.  There was a palpable excitement between the three as they were finally going to start looking for the treasure.  It took a couple hours and the sun was high in the sky when they got there.


    Thinking it would be best if they split up and covered different shops and specialties.  Rutus went to the metal smiths and got basic armor fittings for the group.  Dresden went to the food stalls and charmed, flirted, and otherwise dishonestly acquired food and ingredients.  And finally Endermon went and got medicinal and pitional supplies.


    The three met up on the edge of town.  They discussed the things they got and how they were going to carry it all.  They tossed around the idea of renting a cart, but that only meant that at some point they would have to return it.  They didn''t know if they would be returning to that particular town, so they figured buying some horses would be the best course of action.


    With Rutus''s temper and Dresden''s blatant disregard for the truth, Endermon went to close the deal.  They pooled all the rest of their money and valuable trade items and Endermon went off to get the horses.  She went to a stable with a sketchy looking figure standing by the door.


    Immediately feeling something was off, she asked to see the animals for sale.  When that was denied, she left his field of vision.  She sent an urgent message to any birds in the area to distract the man so she could go talk to the horse''s without him there.  Having a bracelet with small gemstones she had purchased for her mother when she got home.


    Breaking it up into smaller pieces to incentivize the crows further, she left them on the ground as an offering.  Soon enough a very large crow came by and within a few seconds, signaled the other crows in the area and took the bracelet pieces.  Then in no time at all, there was a terrified scream coming from in front of the barn.  The man was being attacked from all directions by angry and excited crows.

 Chapter 5.2

    As the poor man ran out of sight, she thanked the birds, and slipped into the barn.  There were neighs of greeting and thanks for being rescued.  Turns out the man had stolen or worse, the horses in the barn, and fleeced those who wanted to buy a horse.  Making quick work of the binds and ropes, Endermon let the horses loose and told them to return home.


    There was nearly a stampede as the horses joyously returned to their owners.  Well all except three.  Their owner got killed trying to stop the man from stealing them.  She asked if any of the three horses minded a rider that could shift to other forms.  A large white stallion with scars scattered along his neck said he''d been in skirmishes before and one animal man wouldn''t be a problem.


    She said he could always buck him off if it got too troublesome.  Endermon chose the tan mare and there was a smaller chestnut horse that would be perfect for Rutus.  Endermon stopped by a fruit stall and got an apple for each of the horses and led them to where the other two were waiting.


    When they asked about the horses running every which way, she said she didn''t know much about it.  They shrugged and went about securing their bags to the horses.  After getting the stuff situated to both the horses and those riding them, they got up on the horses and rode off out of town.  Endermon hoped that the other horses made it back to their owners safely.


    They rode for a while swapping stories about their hometowns and how things were, growing up.  With everyone chatting freely, it was up to Endermon to direct the group.  Not that it wasn''t anyway, but now that there was more beings to oversee, she had more to worry about.


    The horses said that if they went to a place where there was grass by the riverbank, that would be okay, until they could get to a decent stable.  Trusting their instincts, Endermon largely let them lead to a decent spot for the night.


    Dismounting, they set up camp for the night.  Patting the horses, Endermon told them not to worry if two large black stallions pulling a carriage with no windows showed up, as it was a friend of hers.  They whinnied, and set about grazing


    You might be reading a stolen copy. Visit Royal Road for the authentic version.     Endermon went to make a fire to get warm and make dinner.  She was dismayed to see what Dresden was able to get.  Fruits and vegetables that were either going bad or so badly smashed that there would be one, maybe two servings of the produce.  Next time she would give him something less taxing to do.


    Putting her irritation aside, she asked the other two to come help her make dinner.  Once it was made, they settled in to eat.  They heard the carriage approach and they waited for Shiloh to appear.  It only took a few minutes, but she did lean against a tree, which had become her signature pose.


    They invited her to join them and motioned to the pot where the soup was.  She politely declined, saying she had just eaten.  She said something about a man being on the wrong end of an animal attack.  The other two started asking questions, and Endermon excused herself.


    A few minutes later, Shiloh showed up and asked her what was wrong.  Endermon broke down and told Shiloh what happened with the man and the horses.  Shiloh said he was in a bar, complaining about a bird attack.  She also went on to tell about a man who tried to fight off a bear with a stick.  It didn''t end well.


    Endermon felt silly but Shiloh told her not to apologize for feeling empathy for people.  Even those dumb enough to try to scam people.  Taking a last breath to make sure she was composed, they walked back to the campfire, saying something about checking the horses.


    They nodded and finished eating.  Then the two went to bed.  Shiloh slipped out to the road and motioned for Endermon to follow her.  Endermon did so willingly.  They went behind Shiloh''s carriage and embraced.  It was getting harder to pretend nothing was going on between them, when all Endermon wanted was to be together, unashamed.

 Chapter 5.3

    But a few short kisses later, they agreed Endermon should go lay down and sleep as they had a long day of travel ahead of them.  Shiloh said she would keep watch and they parted for the night.  Endermon went and slipped into her cot content that she had not inadvertently caused another person''s downfall.


    The next morning after reheating the leftover soup, they packed up and loaded up the horses.  By Endermon''s estimation, they still had several days until the river merged and became a larger river.  And then more days after that where the river becomes too rocky to pass safely.  So they would have to cross the river at some point.


    But that was still days away and for now, the river was calm and slow.  They continued down the river for a while, only stopping for a quick bite to eat.  There was the sound of the carriage following them from a distance, but other than that, most people kept to the main road.  There was a noise and the group was surprised to see an unkempt man approaching them.  Endermon had them stop to see if they could help him.


    Just because they wanted to assist, did not mean that they were not ready to defend themselves, should the need arise.  The man started out fine and then got more and more agitated when they wouldn''t give him any money or valuables.


    The man pulled out a knife, and everyone took a step back.  Since all three were adept at either protecting themselves and close quarters combat, they wanted to find out why this man was so certain that they had what he wanted.  They tried to talk to him but every try got them a wild swing from the knife.


    Needing to get him to calm down, but not wanting to risk injury, they went to the horses to try to come up with a plan.  Needing to incapacitate him, Endermon asked Dresden to run interference while she and Rutus worked on getting stuff together to tie him up and unarm him.


    Dresden ran off and in a few minutes they could hear a wolf howling in the distance. Vthe man who was already jittery, started looking around for the dangerous animal.  This caused the man to be distracted, and therefore Endermon could get his knife away from him.  Rutus took no time in binding his wrists and ankles.  Once he was tied up, but not gagged, Endermon had Rutus go get Dresden.


    The story has been stolen; if detected on Amazon, report the violation.     As she faced down the man, she remembered her training and started questioning him.  She kept her face blank and unforgiving.  For a bit, the man refused to talk and then as much as she hated to do it, Endermon began using pressure points to cause temporary pain.


    Endermon disliked torture as a means to get information or solve a problem.  She usually went for the peaceful approach.  But seeing as the man left her no other choice, she systematically began twisting and pressing on parts of his body that caused enough pain for her to get the reason behind the attempted assault.


    She found out that he was a man with no family to speak of and had taken to robbery to keep himself fed.  She asked why he didn''t just stay in town or at least stick to the main roads, where there were more desirable targets.she asked why they were targeted specifically.  Endermon was met with more silence.


    By this time Rutus and Dresden had come back.  Getting frustrated, endermon said they could try to get more out of him because she was going to get rid of the headache that was forming, right in the center of her forehead.  As she left, all she said was not to kill him.  Then Endermon went off to sit by the river and  let nature carry her troubles away.


    Hearing cries of pain, Endermon went back to the road and watched as Dresden circled the man as a big black dog, growling and snapping at the man, while Rutus would ask questions and if she didn''t like the answer, would give him a superficial cut.  Endermon also noticed one eye was swelling and would turn out to be a spectacular bruise later on.


    Once everyone got all the information they were going to get, he was untied and pushed in the general direction of the nearest town.  Which was in the opposite way they were going.  The man half stumbled, half ran, glad to be away from them.  Nevermind the fact that he lost anything he had gained on his journey up to that point.

 Chapter 5.4

    Since it was nearly evening, they decided to stop for the night.  They gathered some fire making supplies and they set up their cots.  A quick meal was made and they discussed the man and what he wanted.  Endermon said what she got out of him was that he was down on his luck and even though he had the ability to work, he preferred getting money the unlawful way.


    Rutus said that he told her that someone in a hooded cape came up to him and offered him a substantial amount  to follow them and get the treasure from them.  Endermon was appalled.  She asked how he could get the treasure, when they didn''t have it.  Let alone know where or what it was.  The other two nodded in agreement.


    With the last of their dinner being finished off, Rutus and Dresden went to sleep, worn out from the day''s activities.  Endermon stayed up and watched the fire in contemplative silence.  She hoped that that would be the only incident.  But she was pretty sure it would only be the beginning.


    When Shiloh walked up, Endermon was grateful for the distraction.  When Endermon mentioned the man, Shiloh called him a bland little morsel, not worth the energy it took to finish him off.  At Endermon''s shocked look, Shiloh stared back unapologetically.  She said he had threatened to come back and do unspeakable things to them, especially Endermon.


    Somewhat mollified but still a tad mortified, Endermon asked what happened.  Feeling this was not the time for teasing, Shiloh told her exactly what happened.  Shiloh was just waking up for the evening, and hearing the commotion,  she stepped out of her carriage.  She watched the man stumble into view, but he was too busy trying to cover up his cuts to notice she was even there.


    Even though the bleeding had mostly stopped, to Shiloh, he was a beacon drawing her to him.  Shiloh kept her composure and asked if she could help while he was shouting  at Shiloh about what he''d like to do to those two stupid girls (what he actually said, Endermon could guess, and Shiloh wasn''t going to repeat).


    Shiloh reached out with her mind to see what she could find out.  And it was just as Rutus had found out.  Then the man did something incredibly stupid.  He took a swing at Shiloh.  She moved so quick, he barely registered before becoming breakfast.


    If you stumble upon this narrative on Amazon, it''s taken without the author''s consent. Report it.     They sat in silence for a few minutes while what happened stayed fresh in their minds.  They talked about what to do next time or how to prevent something happening, but couldn''t come up with anything.  They casually turned the conversation to what they were to each other.  They agreed until the time was right or at least until they got caught, that they would be traveling companions.  As much as they wanted otherwise.


    Sharing a sweet kiss they separated with Shiloh''s promise to get an idea of the route ahead and about how long it eould take to travel said route.  She also promised that if she  didn''t tell her personally, that her driver was at her beck and call.  She could do with him as she saw fit, but any shady dealings would be reported back to Shiloh.  Endermon reckoned that was fair, and that was that.


    Endermon went to sleep that night confident things would be okay and that anything the journey to find this mysterious treasure could throw at them, that they would be able to get through it as long as they all worked together.  Whether or not they liked each other was irrelevant.  She went to sleep ready to tackle the next leg of their journey.


    Endermon woke up to a note on parchment about the possible routes.  There were notes written in elegant handwriting about different people and places they might encounter.  Endermon thought it best that she share this with the other two and see what they thought their next move should be.


    As she started to make a quick breakfast, feed the horses, and generally get ready for the day, the other two got up and started helping.  They discussed the note and what it could mean.  Endermon wanted to keep to the riverbank, that way they''d have water and fish.  Rutus wanted to go through town, they''d have access to Foo and materials.  Dresden wanted to go straight to the beach from where they were and make their own path.  They''d have the best of both, in his opinion.

 Chapter 5.5

    Seeing no possible outcome where just going straight would lead anywhere good, they had to decide between Rutus''s way, and Endermon''s.  The need for an actual bed won out over stealth and constant camping.  So through town and on the main roads it was.  So after a quick breakfast, they got on their horses and were off.  Stopping of course to let the driver know which way they were going.


    The riding was going well, there were only minimal attempts to buck Dresden off due to his bragging and boasting.  As a way to pass time, they had mini races.  It was only to rock outcroppings or clusters of trees.  And to Dresden''s dismay, he usually lost.  After nearly being bitten or headbutted several times, he quit blaming the horse even though Endermon  knew differently.


    Stopping and letting the horses graze and have some water, Endermon suggested some humane hunting might be a good idea.  She said she''d stay and watch the horses.  Dresden and Rutus grabbed their hunting gear and headed iff to some particularly thick trees and set about getting some food.


    Endermon got the fire ready and started thinking about what she should make.  She was starting to wonder if they were even going to have lunch, Dresden and Rutus burst through the trees dragging a small deer.  Well Dresden was, Rutus was busy cleaning her axe.


    After cleaning the deer, they portioned it out so they had enough for them, some for later and they had some for the driver.  After eating their fill, they wrapped up the leftovers to prevent spoilage, and Endermon buried the bones, minus some to use for later, and continued down the road towards town.


    It qas getting dark as they rode up to the outskirts of town.  They found a barn that would serve as a stopping point for the night.  Even though Dresden swore it would be okay if they crashed there anonymously, Endermon thought they should at least inform them of their presence.


    The owner was an older woman who was dressed in classic farm attire.  She said she had no problems staying there, as long as she could get some assistance with some chores, as her hired help wouldn''t be there til daybreak.  They agreed and as Endermon put the horses in the nearly empty stalls, Rutus and Dresden got to work.  By the time Endetmon got done, the other two had gotten the majority of the work done, and Dresden had talked his way into sleeping inside, ''for security purposes'', and left Endermon with the most labor intensive jobs that the woman needed help with.  Such as stacking woid and carrying haybales.


    This narrative has been purloined without the author''s approval. Report any appearances on Amazon.     Rutus helped for a bit, but doing most of the rest of the work, was pretty tired.  She climbed into the loft and found a place to sleep.  Endermon bid her goodnight and continued stacking wood.  When someone else started helping, a comment died on her lips as she saw Shiloh carrying some  wood as well.


    They worked together in silence as they got the wood stacked.  Then Shiloh said it would go faster if she did the hay herself.  Endermon agreed, but it didn''t stop her from trying anyway.  Being shoo''d away, Endermon snickered to herself.  It didn''t take long before Shiloh to be finished, and damn it all if she didn''t even look winded, with nary a hair out of place.


    Ascending the ladder, Shiloh looked very smug and happy with herself.  Endermon didn''t want to encourage gloating, but it was a very endearing look on her.  Feeling Endermon''s eyes on her, Shiloh suddenly got self conscious and nearly fell off the ladder.  Regaining her footholds, Shiloh continued climbing until she was fully in the loft nestling into the hay after fake falling.


    There they lay together, fully clothed but still more intimate than they had ever been.  They must have been making more noise than they thought they were, because mere feet away, Rutus mumbled sleepily to keep it down.  Endermon said they would and with quieter cuddling, Endermon and Shiloh settled in to sleep.  They stayed that way until dawn until Shiloh had to leave.


    Starting the day, Endermon went to the door and was about to knock when an unkempt, or at least more unkempt Dresden stumbled put the door.  The lady of the house was more than ready to start work, and he was preventing that.  Endermon apologized for him and left some coins for the lodging.  She gave a quick nod and they separated ways.  The woman back to work and the group back to traveling.

 Chapter 5.6

    They traveled through town on the way to the seashore, gathering supplies and information.  On several occasions, they had to stop and rescue Dresden from an angry husband who discovered him and his wife together in compromising positions.  Ever the diplomat, Endermon managed to smooth things over by apologizing and on a couple occasions, outright lied about Dresden''s intelligence.


    A couple of times, Rutus mentioned the use of armor because some of the husbands and significant others got too close with weapons or things they had on hand.  Endermon had to agree, and finding alleys or out of the way places to get either chainmail or makeshift armor over their vital organs and shoulders.


    The three of them looked like a group of misfits, but until they reached the cave where the treasure was supposed to be, they stuck together whether they liked it or not.  But with the extra layer of thrown together armor, courtesy of Rutus, they felt braver and more ready to take on anything.


    They had been doing a mixture of walking or riding the horses through town when the topic of resting for the evening came up.  No one knew who brought it up, but no one denied it would be a good idea.  Now, they just needed an inn that had a stable attached.  Also one that wouldn''t deny them on sight.


    With the help from the animals, some light threatening from Rutus, and unabashed flirting from Dresden got them a decent place with little vermin activity.  Honestly they were all just happy at the prospect of a real bed.  They somehow managed to scrape together the cost of three rooms for one night.  It was obviously a scam and the innkeeper took nearly all their money, but they didn''t care, they could get money another day.


    As they got comfortable in their rooms, a knock came at Endermon''s door.  It was Rutus.  She was asking what came next.  Endermon simply said she didn''t know.  All she knew was there was a lead to the treasure in a cave by the sea, but which cave and what secrets, she didn''t know.


    They talked for a while and decided that instead of planning out the entire journey, they would take it one day and one adventure at a time.  Whether it was keeping Dresden from being killed by a jealous lover, or outscamming  the vile men who were trying to put one over on them.  They laughed, remembering the stolen horses.  Then Rutus yawned, and said she should get some sleep.


    This narrative has been unlawfully taken from Royal Road. If you see it on Amazon, please report it.     The empty space was soon filled by Shiloh holding a very full sack of money.  Endermon didn''t ask, but was sure it wasn''t gotten legally.  But since she was nearly broke, she didn''t ask too many questions.  The line between right and wrong was getting blurrier the longer she stayed with Shiloh.  But damn if it wasn''t satisfying to see those who wished to cheat her get cheated instead.


    In order for her to feel she had a clear conscious, she laid down some boundaries.  If she felt she had it under control, she''d leave a mark in the shape of a dragon, if not, it would be a bat.  Shiloh took offense to that and told her so.  So, she changed it to a check mark for no help and an x for help.  They agreed it was the best plan and laid down as they had become accustomed to doing.


    In the morning as usual, Shiloh was gone.  But the money remained.  A note said that the quickest way to the seashore was to follow the road on the outskirts of town until they got to a cemetery.  They were to take the side with the names facing the street, and go left at the mausoleum with the giant sun on the wall.


    Of course they were free to take an alternate route, but who knows what sort of people they might come across.  Endermon rolled her eyes but kept on reading.  The note said there was a pile of discarded armor along the fence of the cemetery.  Nevermind the scorch marks and the dried blood.


    Going down the stairs, the innkeeper distinctly avoided looking in Endermon''s eyes.  The other two noticed, but wisely didn''t say anything til they were outside and a safe distance from the inn.  When asked she said they had come to an agreement.


    With their money safe with them and the horses loaded up, they made their way to the edge of town.  Before they got there, they stopped at a place where they could get food to go.  Eating as they rode, they discussed how to find the right cave once they got to the shore.

 Chapter 5.7

    They agreed a process of elimination would take too long, and hoping for a sign was not exactly realistic, so they figured they''d know when they got there, or at least would have a better idea what they were looking for.


    Finishing their fondant ending up at the cemetery, they were momentarily confused as the graves seemed to face every which way.  But finally the majority of them faced the road.  They rode around in uncharacteristic silence.


    Keeping an eye out for a giant sun, let alone a mausoleum big enough to hold one, took most of their time.  Finally over the crest of a small hill their target came into view.  They were excited until they saw that the left road was grown over and would be a rough ride.


    Looking longingly at the smooth road on the right, there was a brief moment where they considered disregarding the words of advice from the letter, but wanting to encounter as few people as possible, they kept their horses at a walk and started down the vastly unused, and almost decrepit road.


    It was peaceful as they rode down the road.  There were no people present, save for themselves, and they managed to go a good deal further than they were able to go either in  town, or on the road next to the riverbank.  Stopping as the sun was high in the sky, they set up a small fire and had lunch.


    Not having seen the alleged armor, Endermon figured it was a particularly bad joke, until she saw the sunlight glinting off of something in the weeds off the road a ways.  They stopped and inspected the pile.  Sure enough, it was a pile of scorched and rusted armor.  Rutus''s eyes lit up like she was just handed the keys to an unnamed kingdom.  Finding the right pieces took a few minutes, but eventually she got mostly cohesive suits put together for them all.


    Silently asking the horses if the extra weight would be a bother, and they said no.  Getting back up on the horses took a few tries, but finally they managed.  Leaving the worst of the armor behind, they rode on down the desolate road that was badly in need of repair.


    They rode until it was getting dark.  They needed to find a suitable place to sleep.  Endermon thought that Shiloh''s note could have let them know about that at least.  Then she figured that someone with their own sleeping accommodations would have no need to look for such things.  Hearing the carriage coming up behind them, they all stopped to see what they cold come up with.


    Stolen novel; please report.     As Shiloh stepped down from the driver''s seat, Dresden remarked that she was up awfully early.  Ignoring that, Shiloh turned to Rutus and told she was impressed by how well she was able to put almost 3 complete suits of armor together in such a short time.


    Rutus beamed and said having the parts was part of it, but trailed off, suddenly shy.  Endermon was not surprised.  Shiloh had that effect on people.  Or it was the fact that she was being noticed for her impressive skill set, and didn''t know quite how to respond.


    Endermon cleared her throat and asked if there was a place to stay for the night, and Shiloh said that off the road a bit was an abandoned cabin that might do.  Not wanting to ride around in the dark, they dismounted


    and half led, half followed the horses to the cabin.


    There was a bench near the door that they could use to tie the horses to.  There was plenty of grass for grazing and they found a bucket that they could put water in.  Finding a small pond, made possible by Dresden falling in, they filled the bucket for the horses to drink out of.


    They went into the dark cabin and after feeling around a bit, they found a crude fireplace.  They lit a fire which provided light and warmth.  Finding a few pots suitable for cooking, a meal was quickly thrown together.  They ate and occasionally had to get after Dresden for taking up too much space in front of the fire.


    It didn''t escape anyone''s notice that there was only one room.  So once dinner was eaten and people were getting tired, they found places that would suit them, and using their own blankets, settled in to sleep after getting enough wood on the fire to last them the night.


    While Dresden an Rutus chose places near the fire, Endermon chose a place near the door.  Besides the other two, plus the fire made it warm enough so that the coolness from the door made for a comfortable temperature combo.  That and it made laying down with Shiloh, easier to hide.  Well unless someone had to relieve themselves in the middle of the night.

 Chapter 5.8

    After the day''s events Endermon slipped off to sleep rather quickly.  Shiloh laid there with her, just listening to her breathe.  She could have stayed there just observing her, but she had stuff to do, so she kissed Endermon''s forehead and slipped out unnoticed.


    When Endermon woke up alone yet again, she was disappointed.  She had hoped that just once Shiloh would stay, but how things were currently that would never happen.  Getting up for the day, she woke up the other two as well.  They cleaned up the cabin as best as they could, left some extra wood for the fireplace and began putting on their armor.


    Once they were ready, they got on their horses and rose off.  They figured that they could find or make food later.  Even Dresden was silent or at least more subdued.  They rode until they saw a directional sign.  It said beach on the left, another town to the right.  They went left and kept their eyes open for any signs of where they were supposed to go.  They followed the road until it turned into sand.


    The trees changed and they could smell salt on the air.  However it would be a while until they got to the next town or village.  They found themselves stopping for water breaks far more often than they would like, and began looking for a remedy.


    They found a roadside stand that was selling beverages and other things.  They bought some drinks and sat down at a table to drink and enjoy the cool liquid.  They were trying to keep to themselves, but wearing armor and their general appearance made them stand out anyway.


    A hooded figure kept inching closer and closer with everyone getting antsy and suspicious.  Finally the figure coughed and a piece of paper appeared on the table.  When they turned to inspect it, the figure disappeared.  Alone again, they looked at the note.  It said look for the fruit stand next to a rock that looked like a seashell.


    Gathering their packs and horses, Endermon asked the wildlife for help and soon they were on their way.  Soon enough Endermon''s horse started pawing at the ground and when she looked at their surroundings, saw the fruit stand right away.  They went up to it with nervous anticipation.


    If you encounter this tale on Amazon, note that it''s taken without the author''s consent. Report it.     But something was off about it.  There was an undercurrent of rot coming from the stand, even though all the fruit looked amazing.  The horses reared up and told Endermon that they would go no further.  Endermon calmed them down, and when she was about to decide which one of them would stay with the horses, the driver showed up and said he''d stay.


    Grateful that he volunteered, she said they would explore and be back hopefully soon.  If not then at least tell Shiloh which direction they went.  The man nodded solemnly and pointed at a path behind the stand that was barely noticeable.  He figured they''d get answers at least.


    Seeing no other options, they grabbed only the necessities and headed down the trail.  Endermon took up position at the front of the line, to talk to the animals and get information from the plants.  Rutus was behind her and kept her hand firmly on her axe.  Dresden took up residence at the back of the line for protection and since he could become any animal, he could as a last defense get them out of there.


    It didn''t take long for the path to become trees and underbrush on the right, and rocks and boulders on the left.  They followed the path until the trees made way to sand and water, and the rocks started to get bigger and rougher.


    They were glad it was low tide because the path as it were was slippery in places.  There was not much path left so they turned to the rocks for answers.  They saw a huge rock formation with the gnarled roots of a tree long past blooming, but it''s roots left a maze of places one could climb.  So they did.


    Using her plant and wildlife communication, Endermon found or made the strongest path upward.  She waited at the top for the other two to arrive.  Rutus made it up quickly and Dresden''s feet slipped a time or two and cursing was heard from below.  Glancing down, Endermon reinforced the roots to make it easier for Dresden to ascend.

 Chapter 5.9

    When they were all at the top they looked around.  All they saw was a hole in the cliffside,  some yards away.  Not having a touch,  nor anything to make one, they needed something that could be a light source and Dresden said he could turn into something that would be able to see in little or no light.


    So reversing their order Dresden changed into a large owl.  Never having changed into a bird before, he was unsure if he could fly or not.  So keeping close to the wall he said the rocks made a difficult, but natural staircase.  He''d hop down a rock and stretch out his wing.  Once Rutus felt that, she''d follow, and Endermon would bring up the rear.  They did this for who knows how long, because the lack of light messed with their sense of time.  However, as they went further down the cave began to get lighter.  Turns out there was a glowing pool at the bottom of the cave.


    Enjoying this book? Seek out the original to ensure the author gets credit.     Dresden was so distracted by the sudden light, that he missed the next rock.  Surprised curses left his mouth seconds before the splash.  This caused Rutus, who was waiting for the signal, to fall after him.  Endermon, who had inadvertently tapped into ger fairy heritage and could plainly see in the dark, jumped in after them.


    It was relatively shallow and it didn''t take long for for them all to resurface.  As the water ran off of them, they looked around.  Closer to the water they could see the rocks to get back to the top of the cave.  But more curious was the inky blackness of another part of the cave that apparently didn''t have a glowing pool in it.


    As if drawn to it like a rope was pulling them they got in there and glowing lights along the wall led them to an altar where a chest used to be.  Disappointed they turned around and found themselves in a closed room.  The strange lights were the last things they remembered before blacking out.

 Chapter 6

    Chapter 6


    Waking up at the base of the boulder with the tree roots on it, they wondered if they dreamed the whole thing.  Examining herself and the others, Endermon determined if they had been attacked, one, they were extremely silent, two, left no visible injuries to examine, and three, all their stuff was still with them.  So it was either robbery, or information prevention.


    They figured anyone going through the process of hiding themselves so completely, wanted the treasure more than they did, and would do anything to get it.  Leaving the matter alone for the time being, they headed back down the path towards the strange fruit stand.


    The path was still slippery and the tide was still out, but they could tell they had to hurry because it was showing signs of coming in.  Endermon thought it looked exactly the same as when they went in.  But that was impossible.  There had been a substantial amount of time taken to get there, climb up the rock, hop/climb down into the cave, fall in the water and find the weird glowing room.


    Once they got back to the fruit stand, the driver looked surprised to see them.  This caused considerable confusion between them all, because to the driver, they had just left.  But the three of them clearly remembered the last part of the journey.  They looked for the opening in the trees.  It was there but led straight to the ocean, with no cliffs on any side.


    When Endermon went to check on the horses, they jerked away from her at first, but after a few moments, nuzzled into her hands.  Having the other two stay with the driver, Endermon hopped up on her horse for a ride to clear her mind and get some answers.


    With an open communication link between them, Endermon had her first honest conversation in a while.  She told her horse her side of things and the horse said they left and the driver made sure they had food and went to messing about in the back of the carriage.  The horses communicated for a few moments and then heard the three of them coming through the trees.


    Endermon asked why she jerked away when Endermon came up, the horse said they were glowing and Endermon''s eyes were entirely black.  The horse apologized and said they thought the group had been replaced by impostors, but the glow faded, and Endermon''s eyes went back to normal.


    Stolen content warning: this content belongs on Royal Road. Report any occurrences.     Endermon said she thought it was weird that she could suddenly see in the dark cave, but if after falling in the pool of water, the glow remained for a few minutes, then what happened in the glowing room where a treasure chest used to be sitting on a suspicious altar?  Turning around she went back to the group and shared what she had learned on her ride, carefully omitting the fact that she was talking to her horse.


    Feeling the search for the treasure was over, because of what happened in the mysterious cave, they decided to go back to the cabin to come up with what to do next.  Whether ti was to continue looking, or to go their separate ways.  Getting enough beverages to last them awhile, they suited up and headed back the way they came.


    Getting back to the cabin was easy, and since they had ample time before dark, Dresden wanted to hunt.  Wanting to try out being a bird and quickly became a magnificent  looking bald eagle.  They weren''t sure what to expect, and when he took off into the air.


    They watched in awe as he made lazy circles in the sky.  All of a sudden he darted down and within a few seconds had a rabbit in his claws.  He changed mid-air and landed with a grace they wouldn''t believe him capable of had they not seen it themselves.


    Telling Dresden to get dressed so they could make dinner, as he wouldn''t stop strutting around naked.  Endermon efficiently and quickly cleaned the rabbit and made a stew, some grilled bits, and even had enough raw material to make some bread to go with the rest of the food.  And using some of the drinks made a rather large meal for the three of them.


    While Endermon was making the food and Dresden was loudly repeating his time as an eagle, exaggerating what happened as he did so.  Rutus had grabbed some of the old armor and some long bones, and had started fashioning knives out of them.  Within the space of an hour or so, Rutus had managed to make three knives, one for each of them.

 Chapter 6.1

    Endermon was impressed.  Both of them seemed to have gotten more skills since their visit to the cave, but she frowned when she realized outside of being able yo see in the dark, she didn''t have extra things she could show off, or at the very least help out a little more.  A cry of pain broke her out of her thoughts.


    Rutus had sliced her hand open and was trying unsuccessfully to bandage it.  Since the food was mostly ready, she went over to help Rutus with her hand.  Endermon grabbed Rutus''s hand to see how deep the cut went, and running her hand over the cut, was surprised to see the wound healing itself.


    There was a surprised exclamation and Rutus was staring at her in shock.  She asked how long she had been able to do that, and why were her eyes solid black?  Endermon blinked and said that the healing was a new development.


    Thankfully, Dresden was still talking to hear his own voice, and was oblivious to Endermon''s new ''powers''.  Rutus asked her what else she could do, and with all this happening she figured Rutus ought to know.  She said she could talk to animals and influence plant life.


    Rutus didn''t believe her so Endermon had to concentrate a little, but got the grass to grow in a knife pattern.  Rutus said okay, now for the animals.  Endermon reached out and asked any snakes to go crawl up Dresden''s pant legs.  She murmured this so Rutus could see she wasn''t lying.  Not that she''d have a reason to, but you know how it goes.


    A nearby snake seemed to nod at Endermon and slithered off.  They watched and listened.  Sure enough, Dresden came out shouting and dancing about.  In all the commotion, the snake left Dresden, without him noticing.  He was still trying to shake his pant legs out to get it away from himself.  He only stopped when he noticed Endermon and Rutus laughing at him.


    With Dresden sulking in the cabin, Rutus and Endermon resumed making dinner.  They finished just as it was getting dark.  Taking the food inside, they put it on one of the only tables the cabin had and put it on plates to distribute.  They ate as Shiloh strolled into the cabin.  She asked what she missed and Dresden and Rutus began trying to tell her about their day at the same time.  Rubbing her temples as if to ward off a headache, Shiloh said she could barely hear herself think.  But at the same time, she spoke into Rutus''s mind and suggested she let Dresden go first.


    The author''s tale has been misappropriated; report any instances of this story on Amazon.     Rutus thought this was a good idea and let Dresden take the floor.  He told a greatly exaggerated version where he heroically saved the day by flying them out of there.  Shiloh raised her eyebrow in disbelief, but otherwise said nothing.  Satisfied he told the best version, Dresden went back to eating.


    Rutus then told her version and then feeling like she needed to do something with her hands went out to polish everyones armor.  Shiloh looked to Endermon for her side of the story.  Endermon took her out by the horses to elaborate.  She said what she experienced up to healing Rutus with a touch and Shiloh whistled.


    Endermon then told her about the off feeling she had then about blacking out in the cave.  Shiloh said she''d be back and zipped off.  Endermon assumed it was to check out the cave, but with what happened with the tavern, she was not expecting much.


    Shiloh stepped back in not too much later and said the fruit stand was just that, a stand.  No fruit, no rotting smell, just some wooden boards and some faded canvas.  Endermon was confused.  She asked about the cave and Shiloh said the rock was there, but when she climbed up, Shiloh only saw a view of the ocean.  But as she made her way down, she saw an area that looked like someone had passed out and there was a slight glow.  She said she stuck her hand in it and got an image of what happened.


    Shiloh also said that after she did that, the roots on the rock all of a sudden let go, and the whole thing collapsed into the ocean.  Feeling more confused than ever, Endermon asked if there was anything that proved they were there after the collapse, and Shiloh shook her head no.

 Chapter 6.2

    Feeling frustrated, Endermon angrily began cleaning up from dinner.  Shiloh silently helped, wishing she knew what Endermon was thinking, when Endermon''s voice said that they went all that way for a creepy room where something had been removed, a glowing pool of water that enhanced abilities, and no one would believe her because it was all gone.


    Shiloh asked her to repeat all that, and Endermon jumped.  She was certain she had only thought that.  She said as much, and they stared at each other for a moment. Vthen without warning Shiloh grabbed her in a hug and spun her around.  But it only lasted a moment because when she tried hearing Endermon again, it was back to silence.


    But Endermon wasn''t deterred she said that meant there were things they could try later on.  For now she needed sleep, even if Shiloh did not.  Putting the stuff away and stoking the fire, Endermon lie down and oatted the space next to her.


    Shiloh looked at the two figures already sleeping and lie down with Endermon.  As Endermon drifted off to sleep, Shiloh thought about the events of the day.  She smiled at the thought of maybe being able to hear Endermon''s thoughts.  That would happen, she was sure of it.  And as dawn broke Shiloh made her way to her carriage to sleep for the day.


    Waking up, Endermon got breakfast set up.  More meat for Dresden, and a more balanced breakfast for her and Rutus.  It didn''t take much time, so while she was waiting for them to wake up, she went through her meditation and weapons routine.  Knowing she''d be sore afterwards, she tried to keep it light, but not having done it in a few days had her going until they were up and digging into the food.


    Wiping the sweat off her face with the bottom of her shirt, Endermon put her blade away and joined the other two for breakfast.  Only having to scold Dresden a couple of times for ill manners.  He seemed scruffier than usual too, but Endermon kept that to herself.


    With no immediate plan for the treasure, they decided to make the abandoned hut their base for the time being.  Most places could be gotten to in between half and a day, and they could use some stability.  So Endermon found some parchment and began writing down what they would need to make it into a comfortable place to stay.


    This story has been taken without authorization. Report any sightings.  Endermon got the others opinions and soon they had a plan.  With breakfast done and cleaned up, they gathered their stuff for a trip into town.  They needed supplies and experts to help put their plan into motion.  Lumber was the key thing and that would take some doing to get what they needed.  Bedrooms with doors was foremost on everyone''s minds.


    Still not great with directions, Endermon had to ask the animals a couple times to point them in the right direction.  After a while everyone needed to stretch their legs and the horses were tired.  They were on a main road so it would be a short stop.  Endermon gave the horses some produce, and got them some water from their supplies, which made Dresden grumble.


    Endermon told him to deal with it, or he''d be the one carrying them and the supplies.  He quieted down after that.  They all had some water and then got back on their horses.  It was late afternoon when they got into town.


    There was a shift in the energy as they rode through the streets.  It seemed like half the people they encountered saw them as some sort of heroes, while others gave them serious side-eye, like they couldn''t be trusted.  So finding a place to keep their horses was an adventure.  After finally finding a place that would hold their horses with no funny business, their first stop was a place with clothing available.  Because after a week or so on the move, they needed new stuff.


    After making their purchases, they found a place with semi-private baths.  Which they also desperately needed.  After becoming people again, they went their separate ways to acquire all the stuff they''d need on this trip into town.  Endermon talked to some carpenters and got an estimate for three new rooms, Rutus talked to the smiths about weapons, and god only knows where Dresden disappeared to, probably to have a tryst and do no work whatsoever.

 Chapter 6.3

    Soon enough, they had a small procession going through town.  A couple of carpenters, a blacksmith, a seamstress (who was married to one of the carpenters) and an apprentice or two along for the ride.  Endermon took the front position, to guide the way, Rutus in the middle, and Dresden, who had found time to get a shave and tame his beastly hair, had a lady with him.  But he picked up the rear for protection and defense, should it come to that.


    Soon enough, they came to the hut and activity commenced.  There was pounding, sawing, and people going to and fro for this or that.  And with the day nearing its end, everyone pitched in to make enough food for all to have at least a decent dinner.  All working people got paid handsomely for the trip out there and their hard work.  By the time everyone left (well except Dresden''s ''friend'') there were three new rooms with doors, and a small forge/kitchen.  Not to mention a decent stable for the horses.


    With dinner cleaned up and most everyone gone, Endermon set up her room in the one farthest away from Dresden.  If there were things going on in his room, she wanted no part of it, besides Rutus volunteered to be in the middle room anyway.  Saying goodnight to everyone, Endermon sat by the fire and thought about the events of the day.


    Shiloh came strolling in and sat beside her.  They sat in companionable silence, until Shiloh glared in Dresden''s direction.  Endermon could guess what was going on, but felt the need to tease Shiloh about it.  She asked if Shiloh felt left out.  Shiloh said no, but they didn''t have to be so obvious about it.  Endermon asked what they were thinking, all the while wishing they could do just that.


    Shiloh snickered as she related how great Dresden thought he was doing and how bored, yet eager for the money the girl, (sorry, ''lady'') was.  The two of them had a quiet laugh, and Endermon felt sorry for Rutus, having to listen to that all night.  Shiloh said not to worry, as Rutus was out like a light.


    They paused as what happened sunk in.  Either Shiloh was getting better at reading Endermon''s body language, or Shiloh had successfully just read Endermon''s mind.  Whatever it was, had them stunned for a second.  Then Endermon decided it was time.


    If you discover this tale on Amazon, be aware that it has been stolen. Please report the violation.     She wordlessly grabbed Shiloh''s hand and led her to the bedroom.  Later on, as they lie there, comfortably being in each other''s  presence, Shiloh didn''t feel the pull to go and sleep, since it was early in the morning.  She didn''t want to leave, but she also didn''t wish to find out what the daylight would do to her.  So after quietly getting dressed, she went to her carriage to spend the day.


    As Endermon was setting up for breakfast she saw the woman trying to slink away without being seen.  Endermon said she didn''t have to sneak, as Dresden wouldn''t even remember her name when he awoke, if he even bothered to learn it.  The woman looked far less ashamed but was now angry, as she had a right to be.  Not at her situation, because she knew what she was doing, but at Dresden who had no concept of basic courtesy.


    Endermon offered to give her a ride to town, but the woman declined, saying she''d be alright.  Giving her a small knife to keep her safe, Endermon watched as she disappeared from view.  She turned around to see Dresden''s head peeking around his door.  He caught her eye and asked what she thought.  He just laughed when Endermon called him a pig.


    This time it was Rutus who was the last to wake.  As Dresden was seated near the fire half dressed and looking incredibly pleased with himself, Rutus pulled Endermon to the side and spoke low enough so he wouldn''t hear them.  She asked what was going on and Endermon told her, well not about her and Shiloh, but what happened with the woman and Dresden.


    Rutus nodded and they started making breakfast.  It was a simple one and it didn''t take long to make.  Telling Dresden to get a shirt on, Endermon set bowls out on the table.  They ate and made conversation.  They still didn''t know what to do about the treasure, not to mention their new abilities.  Or at least they tried to talk about them, but Dresden took that opportunity to hijack the conversation.  He started bragging about himself and the girls tuned him out.  Not that he noticed or anything.

 Chapter 6.4

    anything.


    He would have kept on going if it weren''t for the sound of the horses freaking out.  They ran out to see a man trying, and failing to untie one of the horses.  It wasn''t because the ropes were so tight it was because of the hooves and teeth.  Taking a rope from the side of the stable, Endermon expertly got a rope around him, keeping his arms straight at his sides.


    With a slight tug, he was flat on his back and was staring straight up at three angry faces.  Endermon said that if he valued his life, he ought to start by telling them why he was trying to steal one of their horses.  At first he wasn''t talking, but when he heard the click of the axe, he said his wife was sick and all he was trying to do was get home.


    None of them believed him, and looked at each other to decide what to do.  Endermon just said ''Let''s get started, shall we?'', and the other two stepped back a few paces.  Seeing the two of them back off gave the man some confidence as it was just a woman who was questioning him.  He started getting full of himself and refused to answer her questions despite being flat on his back, and a rope keeping his arms rather useless.


    He tried to kick out at her and then he heard Dresden say, ''You shouldn''t have done that.''  He turned his head to ask why not, only to nearly get a bone-handled knife hit the ground in front of his face, missing his eye by the smallest of margins.  Feeling dainty yet unforgiving fingers grip his chin and forcing him to look at his captor, he was alarmed to see pure black eyes staring at him.


    Trying to ineffectually scramble backwards away, he was stopped by an axe landing a hair width behind his head.  Fearing for his life, he finally lie still.  The woman with black eyes asked him again why he was trying to steal one of their horses, how he found them, and what his plan was afterwards.


    He told her he was paid to, and that someone in a black cloak told him he was supposed to lure them to a specific building in town and then he would get paid and was supposed to leave immediately.


    The woman told him in no uncertain terms that he was to leave the area and forget this ''meeting'' ever happened.  And if he were to try to inform anyone of any of it, he would come to regret it.  She then asked how much he would have been paid, had he been successful.  He named an amount, and the woman tsk''d condescendingly.  She asked if he realized he''d been set up, and had he been fruitful in his foolish errand, he would have been disposed of when it came to get his payment?  He turned pale at that, and realizing he was in over his head began begging the group to let him go.


    Reading on this site? This novel is published elsewhere. Support the author by seeking out the original.     When the rope came free, he scrambled to his feet and ran the opposite way he came from and never looked back.  Endermon sighed and thanked the others.  She wasn''t sure if her bluff was going to work.  She really had no idea what would have happened if it didn''t work.


    Dresden, remembering the towel snapping incident just said he wasn''t aware he had spoken aloud.  Not commenting on the fact that he could be civil when it suited him, Endermon nodded and said it was okay.  Rutus noticing the same thing, said the man was giving off weird vibes and needed some target practice anyway.


    Since it was still some time before lunch, they decided to have a bit of a sparring match.  It was agreed that they wouldn''t hold back but would try their hardest not to injure each other as it would get awkward between them.  They found things suitable for their purposes, and it was on.


    Dresden tried different animal attacks, while Rutus tried to hit him with projectiles.  Endermon used the landscape to her advantage to defend or get shots in at either of them.  Since all three had two attackers to fend off, it was pretty evenly matched.  They went until they were exhausted and lay on the ground, panting.


    Once they had their breath back, they sat up and went to their rooms to freshen up.  Once in clean clothes and feeling better, Endermon started making lunch.  Gathering ingredients and different components, Endermon was content.  They had all gotten a workout and were at least decent at fighting for themselves.  They had yet to team up and fight an enemy, but she hoped that day would never come.

 Chapter 6.5

    Sparring was one thing, but to actually defend oneself from receiving bodily harm was entirely another.  For one thing, depending on how bloodthirsty the opponent, the less likely they would hold back.  Endermon disliked fighting and wished to avoid it whenever possible.  But her father insisted she be able to defend herself, so when she was not working on princessly stuff like etiquette, crafting, and politics, her father taught her how to care for and use weapons properly.


    Feeling a wave of homesickness wash over her, she sent out a request to the birds to send a message of her quest to her parents and see if she could get a reply from them.  It wasn''t specific, but when a flock of birds took off, she was certain her message would be sent and received.


    Endermon finished preparing lunch and set it out on the table.  There was bread, some meats, produce, and she even managed to get a small dessert made.  Not bothering to inform the other two, she grabbed a bowl and started eating.  She didn''t have to worry, be ause a few minutes later, the other two joined her.


    After they ate and cleaned up, Rutus began working on making actual sets of armor that would be tailor made to the three of them and have their individual needs in mind.  Using the materials the smiths left, and the stuff she had accumulated, Rutus got to work.


    Dresden decided he didn''t have enough muscle mass, so he started doing muscle building exercises.  And to Endermon''s dismay, he was once again without a shirt.  He was only picking up large branches and rolling big rocks around, but Endermon didn''t wish to witness it so she went to her room to meditate.  She rolled her eyes as Dresden called out and said she was missing the show.


    Fighting the urge to use an obscene gesture, Endermon walked to her room and shut the door.  Doing calming exercises that her mother had taught her, the tension and other negative feelings left her feeling relaxed after the events of the day.  She must have gotten too relaxed because the next thing she knew, it was dark out and someone was knocking on her door.


    Unauthorized use: this story is on Amazon without permission from the author. Report any sightings.     Rubbing the sleep from her eyesand checking for drool, she told them to come in.  Shiloh came in and sat on the bed.  She nudged Endermon and said she gave her driver quite a show.  Making some poor man run off like a wild animal was after him.


    Endermon asked what all he saw, and Shiloh related what she had been told, which was the man tried to steal the horse, the three of them roped him and crowded around him.  Two stepped back, and after being kicked at, Endermon expertly flicked a knife at him and missed his face.  Then seeing the knife, Rutus threw her axe and also expertly missed the man''s head.


    He couldn''t hear what was being said, but it sounded like the man was sobbing.  After a few seconds of him blubbering, the rope was gone and so was he.  Endermon sighed and told her there was something else to it.  She asked if Shiloh remembered when they met, how she trapped a wolf for her?  Shiloh was amused but didn''t say no, waiting for the punchline.


    Endermon said after the cave, some of her abilities got magnified, and she acquired a few more along the way.  Shiloh was intrigued.  Endermon took a deep breath and closed her eyes.  She opened them and asked if she noticed anything different.  Shiloh said the eyes were new.  Endermon, who could see the planes of Shiloh''s face, was amazed at how beautiful the vampire was.


    Perfectly styled hair that cascaded past her shoulders, crimson lips and aristocratic cheekbones.  Dark eyes that one could get lost in, and impeccably dressed.  Wearing a perfectly tailored dress that showed off every sensual curve of her elegant body.  Shiloh cleared her throat, concern coloring her features.  Endermon apologized and said that yes, her eyesight was enhanced and, she could heal by touch.


    Shiloh nodded, and said that must be why they could sometimes do the mind thing.  Shiloh told her that even though they had the conversation before about the healing, she said she would love to see it in action sometime.  Endetmon blushed, embarrassed to have forgotten she had already told Shiloh.

 Chapter 6.6

    But after a moment, she said because of her new abilities, she had accidentally healed Rutus, and therefore felt obligated to show her the ability to talk to animals and influence plant life.  Shiloh asked how she took it and Endermon told her, surprisingly well.  Shiloh then asked if she had told Dresden, and Endermon laughed.  She said he knew she was a fairy, and that was it.  The less he knew about her abilities and lineage, the better.  Shiloh agreed.


    Shiloh told Endermon that she didn''t feel the pull of sleep when dawn was approaching anymore.  She said it was strange when she hadn''t felt just tired in a while.  Putting her hand up, shiloh told her that no, she hadn''t tried going out in the daylight yet.  Enfermon tried to hide her disappointment.  Shiloh leaned over and kissed her temple and said there''d be other times and she had only put her hand in the glowing water.  She had not been submerged like the others.


    Not tired, but needing sleep anyway, they decided to lie together in the quiet and just be.  They talked about where they might go next, but without any hints or leads, they thought it best if they just stayed put until they heard something.  Shiloh asked what was going to happen to the place when they went on their next leg of the journey.  Shrugging, Endermon pulled Shiloh''s arm over her and snuggled in close.


    Waking up in the morning, Endermon got up to see if there was any word from anyone.  There was a parcel near the road that had their names on it.  Recognizing her mother''s handwriting she opened the outer layer.  There were four other packages inside.  Each one had one of their names on it.  Closing the package, she took it into the main room so they could open them together, with the exception of Shiloh of course.


    With a quick knock on both doors, everyone was out and inspecting the packages.  Feeling like a special occasion, everyone guessed what might be in theirs.  Seeing writing on the inside of the main package, Endermon told them to open the others carefully.  Knowing her parents it was a puzzle or riddle that needed solving.


    A case of literary theft: this tale is not rightfully on Amazon; if you see it, report the violation.     With everyone opening packages, there was no time for breakfast.  Not that anyone was complaining, mind you.  There was a loud shout of triumph from Dresden who had gotten into his first.  It was a collection of dried meats and a bear pendant.  While he dove into his snacks, Endermon looked at the wrapping.  It looked to be a piece of a map.  Reminding Dresden that he needed to write a note to the people who sent the package, Endermon turned to Rutus.


    Rutus carefully opened hers and found some weapons maintenance equipment.  That came from her father, Endermon was sure of it.  There were some food bits in there as well, but the badger pendant and the weapon stuff was the real prize.  Carefully taking the wrapping, Endermon figured it would be another piece of a map.  And it was.


    With pressure from the other two, Endermon laughed, and started opening hers.  She noticed her mother artfully removed any mention of royalty, kingdoms or anything that could let a non fairy know that the package was from a king or queen.


    Endermon found her favorite fried fruits and some herbs and spices from the royal garden.  There was a hummingbird pendant, that she put on immediately.  After setting the contents aside, she spread out the four pieces of fabric and started rearranging them on the table.  The other two came over and decided to help.


    Well Rutus helped, Dresden kept trying to make the map into male private parts.  Seeing they would need Shiloh''s package to finish the map they decided to prepare breakfast and discuss where they might be going next.


    After breakfast, they went outside at Rutus''s urging.  There, they found three sets of armor.  Rutus was nearly bouncing with excitement, she ushered them to a specific suit and had them try on the various pieces.  To everyone''s surprise, they fit exactly as they were supposed to.  And they had al the specifics they would all need, should they find themselves suddenly needing to be protected.

 Chapter 6.7

    After admiring their new armor, everyone took theirs back to their respective rooms.  Which gave Endermonthe idea to make the house into a fully fledged out beginning castle.  She began writing out everything they''d need to make it a reality.  But after writing down the list, it was clear that castle was above their pay grade.  So they modified the list to make it into an actual house.


    More lumber and other materials, getting permission to build the house and people to help build it.  The task seemed insurmountable.   But Dresden who was bored, took a length of rope and began mapping out rooms, but without anything to hold the rope, it soon became a tangled mess.  Grabbing rocks and sticks and regathering the rope, the three of them soon had rooms mapped out.


    There was a spot for a kitchen, a space in the back for bathing and a communal room was in the works.  There were some boards and metal left over from making the rooms and they started to put the outlines of the rooms together.  But with no one really knowing the intricacies of carpentry thought it might be better if a more knowledgeable sort were there to help.


    Gathering the materials again and stacking them at the back of the house, they decided to just sit back and relax.  No quests, no adventures, just enjoying the sunshine.  That only lasted a few minutes because Dresden started daydreaming and neither one wanted to listen to it, so they went to their rooms.  Rutus, to go through the weapons stuff she got earlier an Endermon to write a letter thanking her parents for all the stuff they sent.


    Since it was quite a long letter, it was dark when she finished it.  Putting it aside to take to town later, she stretched and went outside to at least make a quick dinner.  As she was cooking, Shiloh came ip and asked how Endermon''s day went.


    Endermon told her all that had happened and had Shiloh watch the food as she went and got Shiloh''s package.  Telling her the outside was a map that needed one more piece, Shiloh took the outside off and carefully set it aside.she got into the contents daintily.  Not something one would expect from a vampire.


    This content has been unlawfully taken from Royal Road; report any instances of this story if found elsewhere.     Shiloh got an owl pendant and a flask that was covered in jewels.  She also got a mask that covered her eyes.  Endermon thought it was sweet that her parents got Shiloh something in case she couldn''t make it to her coffin, or at least her carriage.  Endermon showed Shiloh the letter she had written and Shiloh scanned it quickly.  Grabbing a quill, she added things here and there.  When she was finished, she gave Endermon a kiss and zipped off.


    Endermon took the last piece of the map and finally got the picture.  They were going to have to head north to the desert to try to find the treasure.   She waited until Shiloh got back to share the news.  Because for some reason, the other two were never around when these revelations took place.


    Well actually, she knew why, but she wanted to share with Shiloh first.  A few moments later, Shiloh showed up empty handed.  Endermon showed her the map and expressed her concerns.  She started to panic with all that needed to be done.  She started going over a non-existent list until Shiloh put her hands on her shoulders.


    This forced Endermon to calm down and breathe.  When Shiloh let go, they sat down by the fire and began itemizing the things that would be of utmost importance to do before they left.  First was to do a quick clean up of the property.  Anything that could be used or sold should be rounded up and taken care of right away.


    Then There was the issue of personal valuables, they had to decide whether or not to take them or decide what to do with them.  Food would not be a problem as anything that didn''t get packed away would be given to the wildlife.


    And then there was the issue of whether or not to have someone stay there while they were gone.  With some things decided and others that needed the voice of the whole group, Endermon and Shiloh went to Endermon''s room and lie down on the bed just discussing various topics.

 Chapter 6.8

    Endermon yawned and curled into Shiloh.  Cuddled up together Shiloh watched as dawn broke and started lightening up the room.  Wishing she could stay, but not knowing if she should, Shiloh got up, pulled a blanket over Endermon and quietly went to her carriage.


    Waking up in the later morning, Endermon could smell something burning.  Not house material, just something left on the stove too long.  She made her way outside and saw Dresden attempting to cook.  Whatever it was supposed to be, was sitting on a plate.


    Endermon received a too large portion and tried to eat it.  Identifying something that was supposed to be meat, she gingerly took a bite.  It was burnt and Dresden used no spices that she could find.  Waiting until he wasn''t looking she hastily spit her bite out into her hand.


    Excusing herself, she went to the rubbish heap, and threw away the offending morsel.  Rinsing her hands with some of the wash water, she went back in.  Rutus had awakened and stared dubiously at the ''food''.  With a quick shake of her head Endermon signaled her to not partake.


    Finding some fruit instead Rutus asked what was the deal with the parchment on the table.  Going over and rearranging them, Endermon showed them the map with the treasure being somewhere in the desert.  Abandoning the terrible food, they started discussing how to go about it.


    They decided a trip into town was in order.  There they would sell what they could, stock up on things they needed, and possibly get someone to stay and look over the place while they were gone.


    With a quick clean up of breakfast, a bit of wandering around gathering items to sell or barter, and an eagerness to get going, they armored up and got on their horses.  They were pulling a small two-wheeled cart that had their stuff to sell, plus food and water for the albeit quick journey.


    It was late afternoon when they got into town.  They went straight to work.  This time, no one was wary of them.  Whatever the reason, they got their tasks done relatively quickly.  Rutus sold the knives and thrown together armor and got quite a good amount for it all.  Dresden did whatever it was that he did and managed to come back with a box that clinked suspiciously.


    Reading on this site? This novel is published elsewhere. Support the author by seeking out the original.     Endermon had the hardest time.  Both in getting the materials sold and in acquiring stuff that would last on the journey.  Mainly because some of the females in town kept trying to flirt with her.  Even after telling them she was a female herself.  Not that she wasn''t flattered, but she was still figuring out what she had with Shiloh.


    But in the end, they all got what they needed or wanted and they found an out of work tradesman who would stay at the house while they were gone.  Not having room on the horses, the man opted to ride in the cart.  Endermon being smaller said he would be better suited for riding on her horse.  He tried to refuse, but Endermon was having none of it.


    She made herself comfortable in the cart and listening to the animals talk back and forth, took a nap.  She woke up when they got back.  She helped put stuff away and then got started on dinner.  With an extra person, Endermon made sure to make a larger than normal meal.


    She sent Rutus to ask their guest if there was anything he didn''t like, and had to ask herself when she saw the two deep in conversation.  Dresden was sitting there with a scowl on his face.  Endermon guessed it was because Rutus was not paying attention to him.


    With Dresden pouting, sorry, sulking, Endermon had to serve the food herself.  She was relieved when Shiloh sauntered up, since it was after dusk.  Together they got the meal served and even convinced Dresden to share one of his bottles.


    There was drinks and laughter throughout the meal.  The only awkward parts were when Dresden tried to out-man the tradesman, whose name he purposely never learned.  But he got his butt handed to him every time.


    At the end of the meal when everything was put away, Rutus hid away with the man, and Dresden sulked about and ended up slamming his door as he went to his room.

 Chapter 6.9

    Good for them, Endermon thought as she went to her room for the night.  Shiloh was there, as usual.  Shiloh helped her out of her armor that she forgot she was wearing, and once it was put away, they lie together on the bed.  Since it might be a while before they could be alone again, things happened in the light of the moon that proper people don''t talk about in public.


    In the morning, Endermon woke up refreshed and ready to start traveling.  She knocked on Rutus''s door to let her know she was starting breakfast.  When Endermon knocked on Dresden''s door there was a grumbling from inside.  Looks like someone overdid it last night thought Endermon as she got a quick breakfast ready.


    Unauthorized duplication: this narrative has been taken without consent. Report sightings.     She didn''t bother setting out bowls or plates, it was eat or go hungry, as she was getting her armor on between bites.  The other two did the same.  Finally they were packed and ready to go.


    They saddled up and headed off up the road towards the north.  The man promised he''d look after the place and with the familiar sound of Shiloh''s carriage rumbling behind them they were off in search of the treasure, wherever it may be.  They still didn''t know what it was or if it existed, but they were excited to find out.

 Chapter 7

    Chapter 7


    The first few hours of travel passed easily..  following the map, they traveled up the coastline to stay close to a water source and replenish supplies if needed.  The atmosphere was pleasant and everyone was chatting easily.


    Feeling hungry, they stopped at a seaside tavern.  After securing the horses, they made their way inside.the residents all turned when they entered.  There was no malice in it, they were simply curious as to who they were.


    At first Endermon could hear whispers and murmurs.  She figured it was just tavern noises.  Until she realized no one was speaking.  Well at least not out loud.  She cleared her throat and introduced the group.


    She asked if there was a table available.  A large busted woman with teal colored hair that fell in streams down her back stood up and led to one off to the side.  As they sat, Endermon went up to the bar to get some drinks.


    The woman followed and leaned her elbow on the bar.  Endermon thought she saw a shimmer on the woman''s skin.  The woman asked if she''d ever met a mermaid before.  Involuntarily, Endermon looked down at the woman''s legs.  The woman laughed and said she thought as much.


    Before Endermon could ask, the woman pointed to a coral symbol above the bar.  She said it allowed merfolk to walk about on land for an uncertain amount of time.  Endermon nodded and asked if there were somewhere they could go to talk privately.  The woman raised her eyebrow in intrigue, but otherwise pointed to a door near the bar.


    As they walked through the door yo the kitchen, Endermon remembered her father had mentioned owing some mermaids a sum of money for something or another.once the door was closed, yhe woman leaned against the counter and waited.


    Remembering her princess training, she gave the mermaid a bow.  She introduced herself as the crown princess of the fairy kingdom.  The woman''s eyes widened in shock, but she quickly composed herself.  She asked what the scoundrel was up to these days, and did he manage to tie down the wild woman he was seeing.  Endermon snickered and gave a brief rundown of how her parents were doing.


    If you find this story on Amazon, be aware that it has been stolen. Please report the infringement.     When Endermon tried to pay, the woman kaughed and said that if he wanted to repay her that he could come himself, unless he was scared of being bested in poker again.  She also said that Endermon''s dad never mentioned courting the princess.


    Endermon''s eyes nearly bugged out of her face.  No one had ever told her that both of her parents weren''t royalty.  She started laughing and soon the woman joined in.  A few moments later, Endermon said she was going to give him such a hard time when she got back home.


    The woman asked why she left and Endermon told her of the quest she was on and what had happened so far.  The woman said that sounded about right.  Endermon asked what she meant, but the woman said she ought to ask her parents.  She also said to say hi to one of her relatives that lived near the sea back home.


    Her eyes widened in recognition, Endermon used to visit them all the time.  She said she had to get back to her friends and the woman laughed.  They left the kitchen and Endermon walked back to her table.  Dresden and Rutus concluded that Endermon had a ''moment'' with the woman.  Endermon just stuck her tongue out at them.


    They stayed for a bit then paid their tab.  Before they left, the woman gave Endermon a wrapped package, and said she might need it later on down the road.  She thanked her and they were off on their journey once more.


    They rode on for a few more hours until it got too dark to see.  They dismounted and got stuff to start a fire.  After taking off their armor, they set up their cots and blankets.  They sat on them while munching on some dried fruits and meats.


    Shiloh stepped up to the fire and nudged Endermon over so she could sit.  They discussed what happened during the day.  A flash of jealousy crossed Shiloh''s face when Endermon mentioned the family drama with the mermaids.

 Chapter 7.1

    Endetmon said she''d fill her in on the specifics later.  Shiloh nodded and looking at the food, stood up and said she''d be back in a flash.  Endermon said okay, and watched as Shiloh sped out of sight.  Endermon hoped it was not to cause trouble with the mermaids.


    Shiloh was back a few moments later.  Her clothes were a bit damp.  She looked like she''d been in a minor struggle.  Inclining her head, she nodded to a space away from the fire.  Endermon went with her.


    As Shiloh straightened her clothes, she told Endermon how she went to the tavern to see what it was like.  But before she could get there she heard a shout and a splash.  She went into the water to see if she could help, but the poor soul was already gone.


    Endermon said it explained the damp clothes, but what about the wrinkled and disheveled bit.  Shiloh said someone had come by and thought she was responsible for the crime.  So they attacked but was easily overpowered.  Shiloh shrugged and said she needed to eat, so she convinced the instigator to go elsewhere and carefully got the recently deceased, and well, you know.


    Endermon nodded and said they should probably get back to the fire to dry out her clothes a bit before she had to rest for the day.  Shiloh kissed her before they headed back.  Not that either of the other two noticed they were even gone.


    They were arguing about the tradesman back at the house.  Shiloh''s eyebrows shot up and asked what she missed.  Rutus and Dresden started talking over each other and Endermon rubbed her temples.  She looked to Shiloh for assistance.  Shiloh closed her eyes and soon Dresden was telling Endermon that she should say what happened.


    Endermon said they went to town to sell or barter the stuff they did or didn''t need for the journey.  She only told the parts she knew, and although it was embarrassing, told Shiloh about the bevy of adoring fans.  Shiloh laughed.  She then told about the out of work tradesman who they hired to look after the place and fix things if he wished.


    This novel is published on a different platform. Support the original author by finding the official source.     Dresden tried to interject, but a sharp look from Endermon stopped him.  She said she made dinner for them all and Dresden brought out some liquor.  Shiloh laughed at Dresden''s sulking impression by Endermon.  And then Endermon said that Rutus and the man seemed to hit it off really well.


    Rutus''s bright red face at that comment, made them sell snicker.  She told them to shut up, but it was all in fun.  Endermon said that Shiloh showed up a few minutes after that, and that was that.  Only Shiloh saw the gleam in Endermon''s eyes.


    Soon after that, they all went to bed.  Well once Endermon was certain the other two were asleep, she decided against the cot and snuggled up to Shiloh.  Endermon soon drifted off to sleep.  Shiloh lay there until dawn.  Easily lifting Endermon into her cot and covering her up, she stole away to her carriage to avoid the day.


    In the morning they got up and stamped out the coals, had some more dried foods, armored, and saddled up after putting away the sleeping equipment.  Dresden complained that the small cart was slowing down his horse.  His horse in retaliation, tried to bite him.  Dresden shut up about the cart.


    They set off on the coastal road, continuing north to the desert region.  Following the map, they avoided the pitfalls and setbacks most travelers would otherwise encounter.  And when they needed things, they seemed suspiciously easy to obtain.


    They were at a roadside market getting some food when they started asking if anyone knew of any treasure, they got blank stares, or flat out didn''t know.  So they stopped asking.  They had just reached yhe end of the coastal area, and the beginning of the desert area, when they stopped for the evening.  They got camp set up again and this time only used the fire for light instead of warmth, as it had become substantially warmer as of late.


    Dresden was getting restless so he became a hawk and flew about.  Soon though, he found some prey and darted down to snatch it.  Secure in his talons. The poor animal succumbed to its fate and became a stew.  Well once Dresden returned to the ground.

 Chapter 7.2

    They ate, and Endermon brought up how east things seemed to be going.  While the other two didn''t notice anything suspicious, it nagged at Endermon.  Frustrated, she got up and wandered around in the semi-darkness.  When her hand got grabbed, she smiled and said hello to Shiloh.


    Shiloh faked a pout and said she had an unfair advantage.  Endermon turned to her, amusement clear on her face.  Shiloh said nothing but grinned clearly pleased with herself.  Endermon let it go and they continued walking hand in hand.


    Eventually Endermonsaid that this part of the trip was starting to irritate her.  Shiloh asked her why, and Endermon said it felt like things were being handed to them, whereas in the first part, it was actually exciting trying to find things out on their own.


    Shiloh hummed and suggested they head back before they were missed.  Endetmon said okay and they wandered back to the fire.  Not that anyone noticed Endermon had left in the first place.  They were too busy playing poker, and by the looks of it, Rutus was winning, by a lot.


    Shiloh asked if Endermon would be okay alone for a bit.  She nodded and Shiloh zipped off.  While the poker game was going on, Endermon took off her armor and set up her cot.  Soon enough Dresden was out of chips and even though he grumbled about it, handed Rutus an unopened bottle from his stash.  Endermon wondered what Rutus bet.


    But with Shiloh not back yet, for the first time since she started the adventure, Endermon felt alone.  She didn''t know why, and she hated it.  It wasn''t like they were an official couple either.  But without Shiloh''s cool skin and even breathing either behind, or next to her, Endermon couldn''t sleep.


    With this revelation, she knew she had to tell Shiloh how she was feeling, regardless if Shiloh felt the same way about her.  And they probably ought to let the other two know, well if they hadn''t guessed already.


    Endermon was about to try to force herself to sleep, when she heard a voice softly calling her name.  Turning towards it, Endermon saw Shiloh''s face.  Endermon quickly but quietly went over to her.


    This novel is published on a different platform. Support the original author by finding the official source.     Shiloh had the map in her hands and all along the path,  Shiloh had circled several seemingly normal points.  Shiloh said she went through the route the map said they should take and every spot she had circled was a place where something would be given to them.


    Endermon looked at the map again, and she felt foolish that she didn''t see it earlier.  She said that if they followed the route, yes they''d get stuff they needed, but if they went inland and more or less in a straight line, they''d only get there a day or two later than the map said they would.


    Endermon also told Shiloh that she needed to have words with her parents.  Shiloh asked what her parents had to do with it, and Endermon said it would be just like them to leave a trail of breadcrumbs for Enfermon to find and feel like she''d figured things out for herself.


    Shiloh asked if she was mad, and Endermon said no, she just found it funny.  She was curious about the treasure and if her parents had anything to do with it.  They folded up the map and made their way back to the campsite.


    But as they were settling in, dawn was breaking.  So they shared a kiss and Shiloh went to her carriage. Endermon knew she would only get a little bit of sleep, so she planned on making coffee or taking a nap later in the day.


    Later on when the morning had made its way into day, Endermon got up and saw the two looking over the map that Shiloh put by the fire.  They were arguing over the circled parts.  Oh yeah.  They didn''t know about her parents guide yet.  So she pretended to look over the map and said she had a dream that bad things were to happen in the circled spaces.


    The other two asked her what they should do instead, and and Endermon found a quill and drew a path right to the treasure.  That way they could avoid the possibility of bad things happening.  They agreed it was the best plan and went on preparing for the day.

 Chapter 7.3

    Once all their armor was on and the cart was packed, Endermon told Dresden to get the cart ready.  Rutus looked at her questioningly.   Endermon asked what she bet in the poker game.  Rutus smiled, and said her jewel-handled dagger.  Endermon snickered, as that was one of the ones she had purchased back at the beginning of the journey.


    Endermon asked how she beat him so magnificently.  Rutus said his face started to shift into different animals.  Predator for good hands and prey for bad Endermon called Tutus a genius, and they started off in the new direction.  Yes they wouldn''t be getting hand outs, and the desert region was unfamiliar to them all, but they were in control of where they went and how they got there.


    The next couple of days was a cycle of ride, stop to eat, ride, and sleep.  So to pass the time, they would tell stories about what happened in their towns.  And if they were embarrassing, even better.


    They didn''t plan on what to wear for extremely warm days and nights, so for the most part, they kept their armor on the cart.  The package the mermaid gave Endermon came in handy though.  Turns out it was an enchanted flask and somehow always had crystal clear water in it.


    One time Dresden got too excited and thought he saw a lake.  Leaping off his horse, he dove in and started splashing around.  It wasn''t until he heard Rutus and Endermon laughing at him that he realized he jumped into a mirage.


    As he stood up and shuffled over to his horse,  the other two tried to brush him off, but they were laughing too hard to do any good.  He ended up getting most of it, but was grumbling about sand in uncomfortable places.  They knew they''d have to make a detour in order for him to stop, so they consulted the map.  Fortunately there was a place about half a day''s journey west that had bathing facilities.


    Changing course, they headed to find the small desert Inn.  They make it as the sun is going down.  Due to the size of both the building, and the group, they only had one room available on such short notice.  Paying for one night, Endermon hoped they had a barn or someplace to keep the horses.


    Reading on Amazon or a pirate site? This novel is from Royal Road. Support the author by reading it there.     Turns out, there was a small, yet empty barn that the horses could rest in, and as a bonus, Shiloh''s carriage could just fit as well.  Having marked the place on the map so they could return to it in the morning, two of them tried to make themselves comfortable in their room.


    After Dresden got back it was even worse.  It wasn''t until Shiloh tapped Endermon on the shoulder that she started to relax.  Shiloh whispered to follow her.  It was then that Endermon noticed the blanket that Shiloh was carrying.  Making their way quietly to an unmarked door at the end of the hallway, they slipped unnoticed going up to the roof.


    Once the blanket was wrapped around them, Endermon quickly fell asleep.  It wasn''t until dawn was breaking that she woke up to see Shiloh stretching and working the kinks out of her back and neck.


    After a quick kiss, they slipped back into the room, well at least Endermon did.  She found an area that she could lie down in and get some more sleep until the other two woke up.  She even managed to get more than an hour of more sleep.


    When she woke up, she found 3 cups of coffee and a small plate of food for each of them.  And getting to it, insured that the other two would be waking up for breakfast too.  They got ready quickly and nearly inhaled the food, as it had been the first real meal since the stew.


    Paying at the desk, Endermon thanked them for breakfast.  They said she was welcome, but they didn''t send it.  They said a quiet man ordered it for them and paid to have it sent up.  Endermon thanked them again anyway.


    Before they left, Endermon asked if they knew of or heard of any special treasure in the area.they looked thoughtful, and said there was nothing that came to mind.  Endermon nodded, and they left.  Oh good, her parents either hadn''t noticed, or if they had, weren''t saying anything as of yet.

 Chapter 7.4

    When they got to the barn, the horses were ready to go.  Endermon could smell the remains of Shiloh''s perfume, so she figured in between the first light of dawn and when they woke up, she must have been busy.


    Once they had saddled up, they noticed something was off.  It wasn''t until they had been riding a while, that Dresden suddenly called out, ''Hey, where''d the spooky chick go?''  Endermon bristled at that, but otherwise kept silent.  Rutus said her carriage wasn''t there either.


    This struck Endermon as odd.  Shiloh''s driver had always followed them.  Endermon was so preoccupied that it took Rutus nearly shouting her name to realize there was a very obvious tree branch pointing in one specific direction.


    They did that for the next several miles, and soon, even though most of the desert looked mostly the same, they saw the area where Dresden decided to take a swim.  And miraculously enough, the area was nearly undisturbed.  There were human shaped indents in various places.


    Dresden grumbled about it not being funny, but the other two disagreed and laughed anyway.  Once they could breathe again, Endermon pulled out the map.  Quietly asking the animals if they were headed in the right direction, her horse pawed the ground.


    Endermon couldn''t believe that she missed the very obvious wheel tracks.  Endermon pointed at them and called out that they should follow them for a while to see where they went.  The others agreed.  They followed the tracks until they disappeared.  And a while later, the familiar sounds of large black stallions pulling a carriage in it could be heard rumbling across the desert.


    Soon enough, it was time for lunch.  They had been traveling for hours, and after passing around the magic flask, started making a quick lunch that would sustain them for at least the rest of the day''s riding.


    While they were eating, they looked at the map, hoping they were getting closer to, anything really.  They found they were actually quite close to an encampment.  Yes it meant tents, but also excluded sleeping out in the open desert.


    Unauthorized content usage: if you discover this narrative on Amazon, report the violation.     Of course knowing they needed to make it there by nightfall, meant there would be not much downtime.  So taking one last drink from the flask, on they rode.  Endermon knew she was pushing the horses more than they were comfortable with, for which she kept apologizing.


    One time she forgot to say it in her thoughts, and accidentally said it out loud.  To which Dresden asked her why she was apologizing, it was just a dumb animal.  His horse, didn''t take kindly to that and promptly bucked him off.


    Taken by surprise, Dresden went toppling over the horse''s head and ended up flan his back, with an angry horse''s teeth all up in his business.  Rutus and Endermon had stopped to watch.  Finding himself once again fearing for his manhood, he was nearly begging them to get the horse to stop.


    After watching this go on for a moment or two, Endermon asked what it would hurt to try to apologize.  Rolling his eyes and still trying to save his privates, he muttered a very insincere apology.  When the horse landed a foot right between Dresden''s legs, Dresden begged the horse to forgive him.  With a final stomp and a whinny, the horse stopped.  Getting up, Dresden actually apologized and quietly got back on the horse.  He was strangely quiet for quite a while.  Hmm, I wonder why.


    When they finally got to the encampment, it was nearly dusk.  They set about asking for someone in charge.  They didn''t want to be rude or end up having to sleep outside.  They also didn''t want the horses to suffer.


    Excusing herself, Endermon took the horses to where the camels were resting.  She asked if they understood her.  She didn''t know if they had different dialects.  She needn''t have worried, though tired, they communicated just fine.


    They told Endermon who to look for, what to say to get them on her side, and if they were still suspicious, some of a specific type of fruit that only grew in one place, but they happened to be obsessed with it.

 Chapter 7.5

    Endermon thanked the camels, went back and found the person.  She made a deal and even though there were no problems, Endermon happened to have some of the fruit the camel mentioned.  The person''s eyes lit up and it looked like they were going to cry, they were so happy.


    After dinner, while they were in a smaller tent with partitions put up to have the illusion of a private bedroom, Endermon was getting ready for bed, when Shiloh peeked her head in.


    Endermon patted the space next to her and Shiloh slipped in and lie down.  They snuggled together and Endermon said she thought it was time they had a serious talk about what they were to each other.


    Endermon said they didn''t have to label it, but if Shiloh wanted to, they wouldn''t have to hide it either.  Shiloh sat in silence for a bit, so Endermon thought she might have just ruined everything.


    One of Shiloh''s hands came up to lift Endermon''s face to look her straight in the eyes.  Shiloh said that''s all she wanted since they met up at the tavern, before the adventure really started.  Since Endermon initiated their second kiss.


    Endermon blushed and hid her face in Shiloh''s shoulder.  Shiloh chuckled and said they could take it as slow or as fast as they wanted, and if Endermon did not wish to hide what they had, Shiloh didn''t mind.  Endermon tried not to squeal with happiness.  But for the sake of those sleeping, kept it to herself somehow.


    When Endermon woke up in the morning, Shiloh was gone, but Endermon couldn''t stop grinning.  She joined the group for breakfast and as the other two were getting the horses ready, Endermon stayed behind to give the host the rest of the fruit she had in thanks for their hospitality.


    Endermon said goodbye to the camels who were by then, standing up and waiting to go.  She was just about ready to leave when the person ran out and gave her a bag of some quick foods that they would commonly eat.  She thanked them, and finally the trio was off.


    They rode until they saw some rock formations in the distance.  Even though they were still a ways away, the excitement was palpable.  Somewhere in those rocks were the treasure.


    If you discover this tale on Amazon, be aware that it has been stolen. Please report the violation.     They had been riding a while and their legs were starting to get sore.  So they found a spot, which was really no different from anywhere else they might have picked and dismounted.


    Finding some fruits that were not too wilty, Endermon fed the horses.  Rummaging around in the cart she found some hay that got bundled a while ago.  She gave it to the horse''s and they ate what was spread out in front of them.  She gave each one some water from the flask that was cupped in her hands.


    With the horses okay for the moment, they pulled out the map to see where they were.  Easily finding the rock formations on the map, they made a plan to get there, find a shelter of some variety, and look around to see if there were any clues about the treasure.


    Not seeing anything from where she was, Endermon walked further away, but could be there in a few seconds if anyone called out.  Not seeing anything obvious, Endermon closed her eyes, and tried to think like her parents.  Or her father, more specifically.  She knew he used to be in the king''s service, for what, he never said, but she knew he had to have had innately, or had to develop some abilities.


    Endermon ran through several scenarios in her head, and decided the best course of action would be to look out for a cave or something out of place that would do for a marker for something underground.  She would need the other two for this.


    She went back and told them her plan.  They set up a tent for shade and then took off towards the rock formations.  It would have been faster to ride, but the horses were resting and they figured if they had a large amount of ground to cover later, then the horses could go longer without a rest.


    After walking a bit and no progress seemed to be getting made, Endermon suggested Dresden become an animal, a bird preferably, and see how long it would take to get there.  Dresden turned into a vulture and took off.

 Chapter 7.6

    They kept walking as he flew.  He got smaller but never out of sight.  After a few minutes, he began getting closer again, and once he landed, he turned back into a human.  He gave an estimate of how long he was flying.


    Passing around the flask, they carried on towards the rocks.  Thinking how long they had been walking, and how far they still had to go made them wish they had brought the horses.  And seeing as it was getting to be evening, they stopped for the night.


    They had just made a fire and were munching on some food when Shiloh walked up.  She put her arm around Endermon''s waist and after kissing her on the cheek, asked how things were going.  Endermon enjoyed seeing the looks on Dresden and Rutus''s faces.


    Saying nothing about this new development, Endermon told Shiloh all that had happened since the day before.  Dresden asked how Shiloh found them and without a beat, said that her driver pointed out the direction they left in, and when she saw the fire, she knew she was in the right place.  Dresden looked skeptical, but Rutus said that seemed about right.


    Shiloh asked if they would like to have the horses brought to where they were and Endermon said if it was not going to be a bother, then it would be nice.  Knowing that Shiloh could probably carry the horses herself and be back before the other two even registered that she was gone, made Endermon smile.


    With a look of understanding, Shiloh purposely walked off at a normal pace until she was out of sight, then she zipped off to get everything transported.  With a few words to her driver, they got everything in one spot.  She had the driver go slow enough that the other two horses could go with him.


    Shilohwent up to Endermon''s horse and asked if it was okay if she hooked her up to the cart.  Not having Endermon''s gift for talking to the animals, Shiloh held put her hand, and the horse nuzzled into her touch.  Taking that as a sign that it was okay, Shiloh hooked up the cart and gently started out.  The horse went leisurely for a bit then when Shiloh nudged her to go faster, the horse happily went.


    Stolen novel; please report.     It seemed like only minutes later, they were all pulling up near the fire.  Everyone pulled together to set up camp, and it was up in a few minutes.  With the driver going to bed, Shiloh suggested a game of poker.  Dresden pulled out a bottle and poured everyone a glass.


    After a few rounds, it devolved into a betting game.  There was enough alcohol, so if someone made a bet and couldn''t complete it, they had to drink.  If the other person couldn''t, then that person had to drink.  At first it was harmless stuff like, I bet you can''t hold your breath to the count of thirty, and as the bets happened, the worse they got.


    Everyone was plastered enough so when someone bet that Rutus wouldn''t kiss Dresden, she got all up on his business and kissed him passionately.  He actually sat there speechless for a few seconds afterwards.  The bottle ran out shortly after that, and they went to their cots.  Now whether it was with or without Shiloh''s influence, it didn''t escape Endermon''s notice that Rutus and Dresden seemed to go to the same area.


    When Endermon looked at Shiloh, Shiloh just smiled and shrugged.  When those unmistakable noises of someone getting intimate arose, Shiloh and Endermon snickered.  Shiloh said it would be fun tomorrow and that Endermon should tell her how it went.  Seeing as there was still a bit of time before dawn, Shiloh stood up and held out her hand.


    When Endermon took it Shiloh picked her up bridal style and zipped off to a remote part of their immediate area.  Then after setting her down gently, they took part in their own nightly activities.  Lying on a blanket that had hastily been put down to prevent sand entering places sand had no right to be, they looked at the stars.


    They talked about everything and nothing up til dawn was breaking.  Once they were dressed and their blanket was folded, Shiloh zipped them off to the campsite.  Doing a quick mind read of Dresden and Rutus assured them that they wouldn''t be noticed or waking anyone up.

 Chapter 7.7

    As dawn turned to morning, Rutus got up first.  Endermon gave Rutus a cup of coffee and a plate of food.  Rutus asked why Endermon was up, and why wasn''t her girlfriend there.  Endermon blushed and even though no one could hear them, pulled Rutus closer.


    She told Rutus that Shiloh was a vampire and that''s why they never saw her in the daytime.  Rutus nodded and went back to her coffee.  Endermon wanted to tease Rutus a little bit and asked how her night with Dresden went.  Rutus nearly choked on her coffee, but said it went fine.  It went fine a couple times, actually.


    Endermon asked if she thought Dresden would remember and Rutus laughed and said he''d probably come onto a cactus if the wind moved it just right.  They laughed and continued their breakfast.  They left a plate and some coffee for Dresden and began cleaning up the campsite.


    They were nearly done when Dresden finally woke up.  He scarfed down both the breakfast and the coffee.  He didn''t say much as the rest was put away and the armor went on.  They rode in silence.  Mainly because Dresden was still a little hungover and also Endermon was searching the rock formations for signs of anything.


    Out of the corner of her eye, she saw a cactus that looked suspicious.  It was too green and too smooth.  They stopped to look at the cactus when Rutus noticed there was a pile of rocks near the base.  Not being able to help herself, Endermon acted like she couldn''t lift any and loudly ''complained''.


    This narrative has been purloined without the author''s approval. Report any appearances on Amazon.     Rutus wanted in on it and said she doubted Dresden could lift one either, not in his state anyway.  Not wanting to appear weak, Dresden  made short work pf the rocks and uncovered a door in the sand.  They opened it and stared into the hole.


    There was a ladder going down and Endermon prepared a torch.  As she went down the ladder, Rutus came down after her, and Dresden took up the rear.  As they looked around the hole with the help of the torch and the square of sunlight, they noticed slashes in the walls.  Apparently there had been a fight that happened.  They went to the farthest wall and saw another pedestal with the same runes as last time.  Once again there was a space where a treasure used to be.


    In frustration, Dresden punched a wall.  There was a moment of silence as they took all this in.  Endermon inspected the pedestal and saw there was a layer of red powder coating everything except the square where the treasure used to be.


    She ran her fingers through it and a small trail of wildflowers poked up where her fingers just were.  Rutus bumped into the pedestal and when she rubbed her side, sparks started coming off her hands.  Dresden by this point is pacing like a caged animal, angry at the world.


    Grabbing Dredsen  by the arm, Endermon started leading him to the ladder.  Endermon wished she could take the powder but with no treasure, there was no reason to stay.  When they got up the ladder they closed the door and left the rocks.  It wasn''t like anyone could take anything.  But when they looked back, the rocks were back in place.

 Chapter 8

    As they rode back to their campsite, Dresden still had not said anything.  He didn''t even have any smart-ass remarks about the missing treasure, not to mention, no bragging about all the things he had done to help the mission.  Dresden was annoying, but not hearing his voice if even to tune him out was unnerving.


    Endermon had the horses all stop and everyone dismounted.  She went up to Dresden and asked if he was okay.  He turned on her and got up in her face.  He was nearly yelling as he asked if it looked like he was okay.


    He continued yelling at Endermon as his frustration and their not ever finding the treasure.  He called her all sorts of nasty things and accused her if trying to get them lost or killed all for a treasure that didn''t exist.


    At first Endermon was startled, as he had never fully yelled at her before.  Yes, he would snap at her, but he would eventually feel remorse and apologize in his own way, or at least avoid her for a short amount of time.  But this time, it was like an animal was raging in human form, and Dresden was locked away somewhere deep inside.


    Endermon knew that slapping or striking Dresden would only make the situation worse, so she got right back in his face and calmly, but sternly told him it was his idea to join her and if he wished to leave, he was free to.  But if he were to come at her like that again, and he would be in a world of hurt.


    To make her point, she pulled out her dagger and brought it dangerously close to his face with the deadly point aimed for his eye.  This didn''t reach the human side of Dresden, but the animal side recognized the dominant female energy, and retreated.


    Dresden took off shifting into a large predatory animal as he went.  With one member of their crew off to fight with his demons, the other two decided that this was as good a time as any to make camp and hope that Dresden returned safely.


    With nothing better to do, they started talking about what happened in the hole in the ground.  Endermon told Rutus that she was pretty sure she made wildflowers grow, and that she was certain she saw sparks coming off of Rutus''s hands.


    You might be reading a pirated copy. Look for the official release to support the author.     Rutus stared at her hands.  She grabbed a stick st the edge of the fire and stared at it really hard.  Nothing happened.  Endetmon tried to get some grass to grow, and nothing happened there either.  It was then that Endermon remembered it all kicked off after coming in contact with the red powder.


    She was still disappointed that she was not able to take it back to camp with her.  Endermon shoved her hands into her pockets in frustration.  When her hand hit fabric, she paused.  She pulled out the package and saw it was a drawstring bag.


    Rutus asked where she had hidden it and when exactly, did she have time to grab it.  Endermon stared at the bag and said she hadn''t, she was just thinking how she wished she did.  They sat back and thought about what it all meant.


    Rutus picked up a part of her armor and noticed there was some surface damage on it.  She rubbed the area and it started to get hot.  Soon it was glowing a bright orange, and Rutus stopped.  So apparently it was just with metal that she could manipulate.


    Rutus put down the armor and slowly the metal cooled down.  The damage was gone.  Then Endermon said that Dresden''s new ability was to go into a blind rage at any opportunity.  She was joking, but did wonder what else he could have acquired.  Last time, it was a complete transformation, where all skills and abilities of any animal could be achieved in just a thought.


    Either way, Endermon carefully put the bag in her belongings and made sure it was out of sight.  Rutus went about looking at all the armor, besides Dresden''s obviously, and started fixing all the bad or worn out patches.  Soon both sets looked as good as new.


    Endermon was tired, so she told Rutus to wake her if Dresden got back.  With that out of the way, she laid down and took a nap.  A sweet kiss woke her up.  Shiloh was grinning at her and once she was fully awake, was swept into a massive comforting hug.

 Chapter 8.1

    Getting into a more comfortable position, Endermon told Shiloh all that happened.  She said she could now sometimes get wishes granted (untested), and also create plant life (one time).  She said Rutus could now just use her hands to mold and manipulate metal.


    Shiloh whistled softly.  Shiloh asked about Dresden and Endermon said he went into a rage, shifted and ran off to do who knows what.  Shiloh ticked things off on her fingers.  First, Endetmon is a nature goddess. Endermon blushed and hid her face.


    Second, Rutus has become a fire master.  Endermon snickered.  And third, Dresden became moodier.  Endermon said it sounded about right.  Shiloh mused about what abilities she might get.  That reminded Endermon about the bag she had stashed away.


    Shiloh looked on, clearly intrigued.  When Endermon handed her the bag, she carefully undid it and poked her fingers gently into the red powder.  At first nothing happened.  Then a flood of emotions came pouring out of Endermon, and shiloh felt them all.


    Shocked at feeling someone else''s emotions, Shiloh nearly dropped the bag.  Endermon quickly gathered the bag and hid it away again.  As soon as Shiloh was free of the powder, her eyes cleared and she was back to herself.  As all of Endermon''s emotions left Shiloh, she sort of broke down.  Usually it was Shiloh who comforted Endermon, but it was Endermon''s turn to be the comforter.


    Endermon held Shiloh and rubbed her back as Shiloh cried for the first time in who knows how many years, decades, or centuries even.  Shiloh had forgotten what it felt like, and decided she didn''t care for it much.  I mean, what was the point of being an untouchable vampire, if she was not able to keep ahold of her emotions?


    Once Shiloh was back to normal, she asked Endermon how she could stand it having so many emotions at once.  Endermon chuckled and said most of the time emotions didn''t come all at once.  Shiloh seemed sort of comforted at that.  She then said that if that was the price to pay for wanting to be able to get closer to Endermon, she might have trouble convincing herself to go through it again.


    Support the creativity of authors by visiting Royal Road for this novel and more.     Shiloh looked at her and said the ones she experienced weren''t the only emotions one could have.  Shiloh asked what she meant.  Endermon asked if Shiloh could take them somewhere a little more..... private.


    Realization hit Shiloh like a flash and said that could be arranged.  So they took care of that, and came back with their hair all messed up and their clothes a little wrinkly.  But it didn''t matter, no one was there to notice.


    The silence of no Rutus and Dresden arguing was almost too much to bear, and nearly at the aame time, Shiloh and Endermon suggested that Shiloh go and search for Dresden to see if he could be reasoned with.


    Smiling like the two co-conspirators they were, shiloh gave Endetmon a kiss and sped away.  She came back a little while later carrying a passed out Dresden.  He had cuts and bruises covering a good portion of his body.


    Endermon wondered if he had grown more hair, or if he was always that hairy, and she had fortunately been able to not be up close and personal to see it.  Endermon had Shiloh put up Dresden''s colander placed him on it.


    Then Endermon took a deep breath and her eyes went full black.  She saw every cut, bruise, or otherwise injured place on Dresden, and with a touch, healed them all.  When she was done, she was really tired.  She mumbled something about talking to him later to see what he got up to, and barely made it to her cot before passing out.


    She woke up late the next morning and was surprised to see Shiloh sleeping next to her.  At first, she was alarmed and was worried about the sunlight, til Shiloh sleepily asked what all the fuss was about.  Endermon gave her a quick kiss on the cheek and told her it was nearing afternoon.  A few seconds passed by, and Shiloh sat upright and started to take off towards her carriage, but stopped when she found that nothing was happening.


    When it became clear that nothing was going to happen to Shiloh, Endermon smiled and started to make lunch.  It would need to be big if they were going to start traveling back to their outpost.  Shiloh helped and by the time they were done, they had enough to feed a small batch of soldiers.

 Chapter 8.2

    They all dug in, with the exception of Shiloh, who still didn''t need to eat, but she would sip from her flask every now and again.  Dresden, who had no memory of the previous day, asked when they were going to look at where the map said the treasure was.


    There was a moment of silence then Endermon said they''d go later in the evening.  He said okay and went back to eating.  Shiloh said she bet she could beat him in a race to a nearby cactus and back.  Swallowing the last of his food, he said that she didn''t stand a chance.


    Shiloh asked why and Dresden said that with him being an excellent shapeshifter, he could be there and back before she got halfway to the cactus.


    Shiloh turned to Endermon and asked how hard she should wipe the floor with him, Endermon snickered and said it was up to her.  Shiloh said okay, then got up and walked to a spot a reasonable distance from the cactus.


    She asked if Dresden was coming and as soon as he got close, Shiloh took off.  He nearly tripped but caught up to her and to show off, he turned into a coyote.  He made it to the cactus pretty easily and noticing she was getting closer, took that moment to loop around it and start heading back to where they started.


    Endermon leaned back and waited.  A few seconds later Shiloh was by her side and had her arm snugly around Endermon''s waist.  Thinking he had it in the bag, he slowed down to a jog and turned around to jog backwards.  When he didn''t see Shiloh, he stopped and turned around to see where she went.  When he saw her smirking at him from her chair, he stood there open mouthed.


    All the swagger was gone and confusion filled his face.  But to save face, he told Shiloh that he let her win, to not injure her pride.  Shiloh said okay, and gave Endermon a kiss.  After everyone calmed down and cleaned up, they all got on their horses, and started back.


    If you come across this story on Amazon, be aware that it has been stolen from Royal Road. Please report it.     They had been riding a while with Shiloh and Endermon on Endermon''s horse when Dresden asked if they were going the right way.  Shiloh pulled the map out and said they''d been reading it upside-down and to head towards a lake.


    He looked at it from all directions and then said he knew that all along, he was just testing them.  When Endermon got the map back, it had magically turned from the x in the middle of the desert to a small lakeside town.  She was going to have to talk to her parents about that, but for the moment, she was content to lean into Shiloh as she steered the horse.  They rode on like that for a ways.


    Eventually they stopped and started putting up a tent for shade and a place to rest.  Endermon went a few feet away and put her hand on the ground.  She wished there was enough grass for all the horses to graze from.


    She was pleased to see a patch of grass make its way up from the ground.  Feeling tired from that, she went to the horses and led them to the grassy patch.  They eagerly started grazing and relaxing from the ride.  She went back and set up the chairs that they had in the cart.


    Once that was done, she sat back and watched as everyone did their own thing.  Shiloh''s driver was chatting with Dresden about something, and Rutus was showing Shiloh her metal manipulation.  Feeling at ease, Endermon rooted through their bags and found some parchment.


    She wrote a letter to her parents thanking them for the magic map, but next time, could they give her a warning first?  She wrote of their abilities and that she wished to have Shiloh meet them as she had become very important to her over the course of the journey.  She said to say hi to her relative on the coast.  Signing the letter, she rolled it up and tied it with a bit of string.  She put it in her bag  and hoped she could find a bird to deliver it to her parents.

 Chapter 8.3

    No sooner had the thought left her subconscious, than an enormous eagle swooped down and landed gracefully on Shiloh''s carriage.  She reached out to the bird''s  mind and asked if it would deliver the message to her parents.  It nodded its head.  She thanked it and after watching the bird fly away went to sit back down.


    When she felt cool hands come over her eyes, she pretended to be shocked.  There was a low laugh and a velvety smooth voice asked if she had ever been intimate in a fairly inclosed space.  Turning her head, she looked at Shiloh with desire.


    Shiloh grinned like the cat who got the cream.  Endermon could only be taken by the hand, and led into the back of the carriage.  The red satin in the coffin shined briefly until Shiloh shut and locked the door, then her mouth was on hers.  Shiloh guided Endermon into the coffin.


    As they unwound, the others kept themselves busy.  They either didn''t notice their sudden disappearance, or were blissfully ignoring it.  It was evening when they came out of the carriage.  Someone had made dinner and set up the table.


    They all gathered and sat around the table eating and laughing.  Dresden said with his mouth full that Endermon was a lot more fun since she''d been getting laid.  Rutus smacked him on the shoulder telling him to behave.  He did not look sorry in the slightest as he insincerely apologized.


    Endermon said it was okay as he wasn''t a total asshole.  Everyone laughed again and had a good time overall.  Eventually it came time to go to bed.  And for the first time since they had known each other, Shiloh was nervous.


    Endermon said if it helped they could just lie there and cuddle.  Shiloh liked this idea, and they snuggled in together just lying there.  Eventually they drifted off to sleep.  In the morning when Endermon woke up, Shiloh''s arms were loosely wrapped around her waist, holding her protectively.


    Endermon wanted to get up but Shiloh''s arms tightened, giving her a kiss on the temple, Shiloh''s eyes opened.  They were still sleepy, so Endermon told her to go back to sleep.  Then she got up and started breakfast.  It wasn''t much, just some meats with coffee. But it gave her time to think.


    This book was originally published on Royal Road. Check it out there for the real experience.     She was interrupted by a scroll falling from the sky.  She glanced up and thanked the bird that dropped it then she opened the scroll.  It said that her parents were glad she was doing well, but the only things they gave her were the presents and the pendants.


    It was in her mother''s handwriting, so she knew there was significantly less chance that she''d be lying.  Her mother didn''t seem at all surprised about Endermon''s choice of love interest, but did go into the parent thing of wanting what was best for her child.  She did seem surprised that she met up with mermaids and supposedly got information out of them.


    Apparently they were notorious for being unhelpful.  Endermon rolled her eyes.  If anything, the mermaid she talked to seemed to hold back information.  Not because she was being deliberately unhelpful, but because of attraction, and would patiently wait til Endermon was ready.  Or at least that''s what it felt like for Endermon.


    But as soon as she mentioned Shiloh, the mermaid backed off.  Going back to the scroll, her mother said she''d like to see the map for herself to make sure Endermon hadn''t been tricked.  Endermon made a mental note to save it for later, and her mother signed off saying she couldn''t wait to see her to hear about all her adventures first hand.  And with a stamp and a flourishing signature, that was it.


    Shiloh''s voice asked her if she thought her mother would like her, and Endermon said it would depend on her mother''s mood.  If her father had been up to his old tricks, she could get a little surly, but other than that she figured her mother just wanted her to be happy.


    Together they sat in companionable silence until they heard the sounds of the others waking up for the day.  Shiloh, who didn''t need breakfast went about cleaning up her and Endermon''s part of the campsite.


    By the time everyone had eaten, the campsite was packed up in the cart, with the exception of the table and chairs.  And soon enough, those were put away as well.  They put on their armor and started the day riding towards the lake.

 Chapter 8.4

    They knew it would be at least a couple days, so they rode as long as they could get away with, rest, eat, and stretch their legs.  Then they would continue into the night, where they would set up a camp, eat, and sleep.


    And after a few days of this cycle, they began to see plant life, and other signs of water nearby.  At one point they looked at the map and it showed a path towards a lakeside town.


    Endermon wasn''t sure if she could trust her mother''s words from the letter.  She said they didn''t have anything to do with the magic map, but she couldn''t be sure.  But if it wasn''t her parents, then who or what would be assisting them, and to what end?


    As they traveled, the sand gave way to roads of varying amounts of usage.  Some were just paths, where some were actual roads.  Without the constant sunlight they were glad for their armor.  It was still warm, but not stiflingly so.


    They came upon an inn with a rather large barn/stable.  They dismounted and went inside to see about accommodations for the rest of the say and the following night.  As the driver set up the horses, the group went inside.


    They were able to get two rooms and once they put their stuff away, they went down to order a meal.  After they ate, they asked about bathing and they were shown a communal bathing room.  Thanking them, they went and cleaned all the travel off of themselves.


    Immediately feeling better, they went off to look around.  It wasn''t a town but they had a few buildings.  A tavern, a general store, a few modest homes.  Dresden went straight to the tavern, Rutus went to check out the store, and Endermon and Shiloh went back to the room they shared with Rutus.


    Who knows where Shiloh''s driver went to, but Shiloh said not to worry, he''d be back.  Endermon said okay and they began discussing the map.  Endermon also showed Shiloh the letter from her mother.  As Shiloh read the letter, Endermon looked at the map.


    Shiloh looked up and asked if she was 100% certain that her parents had not sent the map.  Endermon thought about it, and said if they had, it more than likely would not magically change by itself.  Shiloh nodded and then asked to see the map.  Endermon handed it over and put the letter back.


    Support the author by searching for the original publication of this novel.     When Shiloh looked it over to her satisfaction, they turned to discussing the journey and their next steps.  They figured if it really wasn''t her parents, the person or persons responsible either wanted to have a laugh at their expense, or would want all the credit at the end.


    There was also the possibility that the mystery people couldn''t get the last bit themselves, so they were using them to achieve what they, themselves could not.  Shiloh thought that was also a good possibility, and they lay on one of the beds thinking which three of the options would be best.


    Endermon asked how Shiloh was liking the sun.  Shiloh said she couldn''t remember how long it had been up to that point, but was finding it pleasant, except when it got too hot.  She said she could feel her powers lessen if she stayed in direct sunlight too long.


    Endermon said she would have to find some balance, or now that they were closer to an actual town, might double up on the snacks.  Shiloh burst out laughing, and asked if Endermon had actually referred to people as ''snacks''.


    Endermon groaned and said Dresden must have been rubbing off on her.  Shiloh smiled and said she would figure something out.  They lie there just content to be with each other.  Pretty soon Rutus came through the door with some groceries.


    As she was putting them in one corner to take out in the morning, she glanced over at the bed and asked if she was interrupting anything.  They said no and started to fill her in on what they previously discussed.


    As they were talking, something occurred to Shiloh.  She asked how much about anything did Dresden actually know.  Endermon said he knew she was a fairy, but not that she was a princess.  Also that she was pretty sure he didn''t know about her abilities.


    Shiloh was shocked, how could he not know?  Endermon said she never talked out loud to the animals, and any time she had done anything to influence the plant life, he wasn''t around or wasn''t paying attention.

 Chapter 8.5

    Shiloh asked about the eyes and the healing touch.  Endermon said that he was never facing her when it happened and he was passed out when she healed him, so he wouldn''t know anyway.  Shiloh said that made sense.  Rutus asked what all Shiloh could do, and Shiloh said she had super speed and was stronger than she looked.


    Endermon nudged her and Shiloh sighed dramatically.  She said she could travel about in the daytime, and could influence people''s minds.  Rutus didn''t believe her when she said that, and demanded a demo.  Endermon warned Shiloh to be nice.


    Shiloh made no promises, but had Rutus doing random things for a few minutes.  When Rutus said enough, Shiloh stopped.  Rutus asked if Shiloh had tried anything on Endermon, and she said she had, but it didn''t work.  Once again, Rutus wanted proof.  Shiloh tried her best and Endermon kept asking what was supposed to be happening.


    Shiloh said as much fun as she was having, she wanted to see what Rutus could do.  So taking out a knife, Rutus asked what was her favorite animal, and Shiloh looked at Endermon and said a dragonfly.


    Rutus''s fingers glowed as she heated up and started to mold the metal.  It was pretty cool to see her fold and crease the metal like it was paper.  And within a few minutes had a dragonfly pin that she handed to Shiloh.  Impressed, she affixed it to her top.  Rutus said she could also complete projects in a fraction of time it would take a regular person to do.


    She then said that Dresden can perfectly shift into any animal and copy it exactly.  Also what caused him to black out was too many animal instincts that made him go into a rage.  So Shiloh said don''t make him mad, got it.


    They snickered and got ready for bed.  They figured Dresden wouldn''t make it back to his room before morning anyway, and they were right.  Around midnight, they were all awakened by someone crashing around.


    Shiloh peeked out the door and saw Dresden  and some woman struggling to get into the room and out of their clothes at the same time.  Rolling her eyes, she quietly shut the door.  She reached out to her driver and got him to go out the window to the balcony, she would go get him and take him to the carriage.


    If you stumble upon this narrative on Amazon, it''s taken without the author''s consent. Report it.     She zipped off and took care of her driver and zipped back into her room.  Endermon stirred in her sleep as she settled in next to her, but the momentary awakeness was past.  Amazingly the three of them slept through the morning.


    While the three of them were packing up for the day, they heard a scream from next door.  They all ran in and saw a large black dog lying on the bed, and a naked woman wrapped in a sheet.


    Shiloh gave the poor woman some money and silently suggesting that she was imagining the whole thing.  The woman, no longer terrified, calmly sauntered out in the sheet and carrying some money.


    With the crisis averted, Endermon talked to the animal part of Dresden saying the building was on fire and he should leave right away.  The dog jumped up and started to barge out the door, but as he woke up, wound up on all fours, charging for the door.


    Then it hit him, there he was buck naked, and crawling around on the floor.  To hide his embarrassment, he yelled at Shiloh and Endermon to get out.  Rutus had already gone to make sure the poor woman got dressed at least.


    Shiloh and Endermon went next door and continued packing.  A few minutes later, a surly Dresden stomped into the room saying he was ready to go.  When they went downstairs to pay, they saw Rutus talking to the woman, and the two of them looked awfully cozy.


    Endermon cleared her throat and both of them looked disappointed when Rutus got up.  The woman whispered something in Rutus''s ear that made her turn a nifty shade of red.  With one last look, Rutus departed.


    Once they were riding again, Rutus was lagging behind.  Endermon whispered something to Shiloh, who got up and smoothly maneuved herself closer to her carriage and swiftly climbed up in the driver''s seat.


    Endermon slowed down her horse and asked Rutus what was wrong.  She said nothing, but her body language said it was certainly not nothing, but not wanting to force the issue, said they could talk about it at the next stop.

 Chapter 8.6

    Rutus nodded and it looked like a weight had been lifted from her shoulders. They rode on, the small lakeside town getting closer and closer.  Finally, they made it to the spot indicated on the map.


    Endermon said she''d watch the horses if the others wanted to explore and see if there was any info on the treasure they could uncover.  They all thought it was a good idea, and went in their separate directions.  It wasn''t long before they were all back saying the should look for a dockside establishment.


    But being in a lakeside town, anything on the water was dockside.  She asked for specifics and they all said something to do with an alligator.  So they split up and looked for this place.  Well the others did, Endermon was looking for an inn, or someplace to stay.


    Luckily she found a tavern that was two stories.  She went inside and found someone in charge.  She got two rooms again which was just fine.  She didn''t think they''d be there all that long anyway.  As she was paying, she casually asked about the alligator place.


    The person said it was near the edge of town, but rumor had it, it had been empty for quite some time.  Making conversation, she found out all she could from the owner.  Then she decided to go into the tavern and have a drink while she waited for the others.  She didn''t have to wait long, because one by one they came back and compared notes.


    They all agreed to go the next day and spent the afternoon having drinks and easy conversation.  They also got directions and wrote them down in case the magic map failed.


    After a while they decided to go explore some more, and ventured out into the late afternoon sunlight.  With instructions to be back at dusk, they departed.  Endermon went up to see if there was stuff she could sell or trade for food and general necessities.


    Rutus went to check out the smiths in the area, Shiloh went for recon, and as expected, Dresden disappeared to do whatever it was that he did.  Probably to get more liquor, and a bit of entertainment of the bedroom variety.


    Endermon got back first, followed by Rutus.  As they were putting things away, Rutus asked how she knew.  Endermon paused and asked how she knew what, exactly?  Rutus was having trouble getting the words out, and Endermon remembered the woman Rutus was talking to.


    This narrative has been unlawfully taken from Royal Road. If you see it on Amazon, please report it.     Endermon said that wasn''t something she had to learn, it was something she had always known.  Rutus asked what it was like, and Endermon said that whenever she admired someone it was female, and that she viewed the males as just not attractive.


    Endermon went on to say it was fine if Rutus enjoyed the female figure.  It would piss off Dresden as an added bonus.  Shiloh came in and asked what was going on.  Rutus turned bright red, and Endermon said Rutus was having a hard time realizing she liked girls as well as guys.


    Shiloh said that as a vampire, sex or other acts of intimacy didn''t depend on which gender one was, it was more of using their desire to get what she wanted.  Endermon said that wasn''t helping.  Shiloh then told Rutus to follow her heart and if the person she was interested in was female, so what.


    Rutus let those words sink in, and said she kind of got it, but it might take some getting used to.  Endermon and Shiloh said they would be there if Rutus ever needed to talk.  They made small talk until Dresden came noisily into the room, oblivious to the somewhat somber atmosphere.


    He started going on about all the deals he made and the bargains he got for this, that, and whatever.  When no one congratulated him, or even acknowledged him, he turned in a huff, and went down to the tavern to sulk.


    Having nothing better to do, they all went down to the tavern.  There, Dresden was sitting at a table, drinks in front of him.  He scowled when they approached, but made no move to get up when they sat.


    While they were talking, a woman came up and said she thought they were cute.  No one could tell who she was talking about, and Shiloh put some money on the table saying the one who could get a kiss first, got the money.  Dresden leapt up and caught the girl by the sleeve and turned on the charm. But eventually got turned down.  Rutus, feeling confident, took her short stature to the lady''s table and stood there for a bit.  Since she was too far away to hear what was being said, they just had to watch.

 Chapter 8.7

    And sure enough, a few moments later, Rutus was getting a quick kiss.  On the lips, no less.  Rutus strutted back to the table and pocketed the money.  Dresden said it wasn''t a real kiss, and it didn''t count.  He put some more down and bet she couldn''t get a ''real'' kiss from the woman.


    Rutus went over there and they could see a lot of gesturing, and laughter, then Rutus got up on the bench and pulled the woman close.  Then they kissed for a few moments.  I mean deep, personal, cleaning the back molars kind of kiss.


    Afterwards the woman sat there fanning herself, and Rutus once again came back and pocketed the money.  This went on for a while, and Dresden and Rutus won and lost money and neither came out ahead at the end of the night.


    They paid their tab and went upstairs to try and sleep for the big day ahead of them.  At the base of the stairs, Rutus said I think I get it now and Endermon and Shiloh said they were proud of her and they left it at that.


    If you spot this story on Amazon, know that it has been stolen. Report the violation.     The next morning they were armored up and made their way to the empty alligator building.  Or at least they tried to.  No one seemed to know anything about it.  Finally there was an old man in a rocker that said they were going in the wrong direction.


    He pointed which way they should go, and they thanked him and were off.  They were walking for a while until they saw a massive wooden structure that had the appearance of what used to be an expensive building.


    They searched for a way in but the place stayed closed.  Dresden leaned against the wall, and there was a click, and a door opened in the wall.  It seemed to be waiting for them.  Summoning up all her courage, Endermon went inside.  The others followed, then the door closed.

 Chapter 9

    Plunged into complete darkness, the group freezes.  Then a glow came from somewhere and with no other choice, they followed the glow, which seemed to have a life of its own.  It seemed to bounce and dance.


    They stayed huddled together and there were occasional voices of protest, as someone got touched.  Maybe it was accidental, maybe it wasn''t, but for the most part all hands were kept to themselves.


    Then the light stopped.  They looked and saw they were at a blank wall.  There was a sign on the wall and as Endermon got close enough to read it, the light got closer too.  The sign said there were two buttons that needed to be pushed to continue.


    So they split up.  In no world would Shiloh be apart from Endermon so Rutus and Dresden were forced to pair up.  In order to decide which path to take, they did a coin toss.  Winner got to pick and the other got whichever didn''t get picked.  Shiloh flipped it and Dresden called it.  He won and picked the path on the right.


    Then the light split and there were two.  One  zipped off to catch up with Dresden and Rutus, the other floated near Shiloh and Endermon''s heads.  It was enough that they could see a few feet in front of them.


    They went through several twists and turns until they made it to a large wooden door.  They waited there for Rutus and Dresden.  A bit later,  they showed up disheveled and it looked like there were tears in their clothing.  Shiloh said they sure took their time and raised her eyebrow suggestive.


    Rutus scowled at Dresden, and said they''d have been there quicker, had he not tried to race or lose the light and trip some traps.  Shiloh said that they just walked and let the light lead them.


    With that aside, they looked at the door which had a handle but when pulled or pushed, did nothing.  The light started bouncing around near the left of the door.  They looked at it and saw a square with four holes drilled in it.


    They stared at it wondering what could go in there and the light bounced around the four of them as if trying to get their attention.  The light bounced off of one of their pendants, and Endermon pulled hers out.


    The narrative has been stolen; if detected on Amazon, report the infringement.     She tried to guess which hole it fit in, but was having no luck.  Seeing what she was up to, the others got theirs out too.  Dresden put his in the bottom right, and there was a click.  With his success, Rutus went and put hers in the bottom left.


    Shiloh went next and put hers in the top right, and Endermon finished it off with the top left.  With each pendant was another click until the door swung inward.  They stepped into a room with torches along the walls and a firepit off to one side.


    As soon as they grabbed the one torch that wasn''t lit and used the firepit to light it, things went haywire.  It was like every trap in the place was sprung and one wrong move could lead to grievous bodily injury.  The first obstacle they had to get around was literally getting out of the cage that had lowered when the torch was lit.


    The bars were too close together to get out of, so that was out.  Well too close for a human to get out of.  They all turned to Dresden who was trying to pull the bars apart.  He looked at them and asked what they wanted.


    Endermon asked if he could turn into something that could fit through the bars.  He started listing things off, and the others were getting irritated.  He finally settled on a chimpanzee.  He shifted and easily fit through the bars.  He then asked what he was supposed to do.


    Endermon said to look for a key to open the cage.  Everyone looked around and finally Shiloh pointed to so.ething shiny hanging from the rafters.  Dresden took off and in no time monkeyed up to the key and wasback on the floor.  He opened the cage and they all got out.


    Then some targets fell from the ceiling and there were shapes next to them.  They started arguing about who could or should try to hit the targets.


    While Shiloh and Dresden were arguing, Rutus had melted down some of the bars and had formed them into a dagger, an axe, and a spear.  No one except Endermon noticed this.  Not to mention Endermon found Dresden''s pendant in her pocket.  Nope, not even going to try to figure out that one.

 Chapter 9.1

    Endermon nodded to Rutus, who expertly threw the assembled weapons at the correct targets.  Once the last bullseye had been hit, the targets disappeared.  The group was able to go further into the room but a beam was falling and was about to fall and block the path.


    Feeling Rutus''s pendant in her pocket, Endermon gave Shiloh a squeeze and Shiloh took off.  No one could really see what was happening.  Stuff got shifted, braced, or otherwise simply thrown out of the way, and by the time Shiloh was back, Rutus and Dresden were still processing that she had left.


    But either way, the path was safe.  At least til they passed, and then it came crashing down behind them.  Once their heart rates were back to normal, they wondered what the next task would be.  They didn''t have to wait very long because a large amount of animals blocking the way forward.


    She started to ask them a question when one locked eyes with her and shook its head no.  It pointed to a very large, very dangerous looking animal that was sleeping.  Okay, she''d have to do this in parts.  But whenever she tried to do anything, birds would start making a lot of noise.


    So seeing some vines growing on the walls, she encouraged them to grow across and make a canopy.  Then she made a plant cage to surround the big animal.  Then she was able to help the other animals escape or do whatever it was that they wished to do.


    This cleared the path for them to continue.  Once they got past that,  Endermon felt all four pendants in her pockets.  She reached in and pulled them out.  Finding the correct owners, she gave them back.  They were all shocked.  Endermon said not to ask, and they were back by the door.


    Nothing had changed, it was like they had just stepped in.  Looking around, they saw glimpses of what just happened, but nothing else stood out.  They made their way to the center of the room.  A large pile of money, a chest, and four scrolls were on a pedestal.


    They wanted nothing more than to grab the loot and go, but the events of the last hefty chunk of time occupied their minds.  They were cautious approaching the chest.  When nothing moved, and no traps were sprung, Endermon reached for the scroll sitting atop the closed chest.


    This story originates from a different website. Ensure the author gets the support they deserve by reading it there.     As she unrolled it and started reading, it became clear that there was not going to be an easy time getting either the chest, treasure or themselves out of there.  She showed everyone the scroll which had parts missing, scratched out, or blurred.


    There was one clear line at the top it said Congratulations on getting this far.  But to leave with the treasure, you must..... and then the rest of it was blank.  They stared at it, hoping the rest would show up, but it didn''t.  With no instructions, they put the scroll aside and started gathering the money to separate equally into four portions.


    Miraculously enough Dresden behaved himself and didn''t try to hide money away or try to get a bigger amount.  I think it was just because they were focused on seeing exactly how much was there.  Then they set about making sure everyone got the same amount.


    They had just finished when someone''s stomach growled.  They figured they had been in there a while, and food did sound good, and started looking through their stuff.  When nothing substantial was produced, they started looking around the room.


    Finding a bow and arrows, rope and some wood didn''t raise their spirits any.  Looking for a window, to maybe call something in from the outside was also a bust.  They were sitting there getting hungrier, when they heard the distinct sound of an animal scratching the ground to collect any bits of food they could find.


    Dresden sprang into action and took off after the noise.  But then it seemed to be in another place entirely.  He chased the noise all over the place and ended up just wearing himself out.  Shiloh zipped all around to see what she could find out and said there was no animal to match the sound.


    Rutus suggested making a trip and catch it that way.  Because there had been times in the mountains that they had to wait out to capture tricky animals.  They turned yo Endermon who had been fiddling with the rope and boards since Rutus suggested making a trap.

 Chapter 9.2

    It was pretty simple, but since the animal would not be able to be grabbed once trapped, she grabbed the bow and arrows and went a distance away.  The other three set up the trap and made themselves scarce.  It wasn''t long before the trap snapped shut.  An arrow came sailing in through one of the holes and all the noise stopped.


    Endermon showed up a few seconds later to see what was in the trap.  It was some kind of bird and was not going anywhere.  Shiloh volunteered to clean it and Endermon knew what that meant.


    A few minutes later Shiloh reappeared and looked like she had just applied some lipstick.  Endermon caught her eyes and subtly motioned to her lips.  Shiloh turned away and discreetly wiped her lips.  Rutus grabbed the bird and cut the bird into portions.


    Dresden took an arrow or two and speared the meat and propped it up over the firepit.  As the meat cooked they discussed what happened in the building since they had gotten there.  They all agreed it was rather strange.  What with the tests, the random helpful things and the fact that no one did things entirely on their own.


    Once the meat was cooked, everyone took an arrow, with the exception of Shiloh, and started eating.  Even without herbs or spices, it was really good.  Soon enough there was a pile of bones with a little bit of meat left on them beside Rutus and Endermon.  Dresden motioned to is and asked if they were going to finish it.  They said no, and he grabbed it and happily crunched away.


    Trying and failing to hide their shudders, Endermon and Rutus had to wait til he was done.  But with a warning look from Shiloh, he was at least not as obnoxious with it.  But soon he was done, as it wasn''t a very big bird to start with.


    Having had lunch they went back to the chest, the money. And the 5 scrolls.  In addition to the first sentence, another had Bern added.  It said they must complete all tasks according to his or her station.  There was also a cage, a target, some fallen pillars, and the outline of an animal.


    There were still some parts that were blurred out. But about half of the scroll was filled in.  But that meant there was half left, not to mention getting out of the building.  Not having looked at their individual scrolls, Endermon suggested looking at them to see if they could get a clue about what to do next.


    If you find this story on Amazon, be aware that it has been stolen. Please report the infringement.     They looked and each one simply said four truths.  Knowing she should probably come clean to the whole group, Endermon stood up and said her name was Endermon Dracu and she was the crown princess of the fairy kingdom.  She said she could speak to animals, communicate with plant life,  and after the two most recent encounters with the places the treasure was supposed to be, could enhance her eyesight, and could heal by touch.


    As Dresden sat there with his mouth hanging open, Shiloh stood up and cleared her throat.  She said her name was Shiloh Archeron and she was a vampire.  She could have limited control over people''s actions, was super fast, and once she visited the two places, she could feel other''s emotions, and could walk around in daylight.


    Dresden said so that''s why he never saw her eat anything.  He then paused and asked if she had ever mind controlled him.  Shiloh paused and delicately said she had ''pursuaded'' him a couple times.  He just shook his head.


    Then Rutus stood up to her full height and said her name was Rutus Skarmout, and was a half dwarf.  She felt she wasn''t as impressive as a fairy princess and a vampire, but all her life, she was fascinated by blacksmithing and metalwork.  Dresden snorted and said, No, really?  Ignoring the sarcasm, Rutus continued, she said she could never do it at home, because it was a make dominated field, and she although good at piecing things together was not thought of as good at metalwork.


    She paused and said that since she had been on the journey, her metalwork had increased, and she could now complete projects in record time, and she could literally melt metal with her bare hands.


    Dresden finally stood up and said he came from a village of shapeshifters, and he was kind of not well liked there.  He had either worn out his welcome in mist places or had too much bad blood between him and a bunch of his fellow villagers.

 Chapter 9.3

    He said he would like to not have the Faewin name not always be linked to an asshole shapeshifter.  He went on to say that his encounter with the treasure made him more focused and able to shift fully.  No one contradicted him.  He said he didn''t know where they all got the two treasure things from, because he only remembered the one, and it was crap.  An empty glowing cave that collapsed as soon as they left.


    He said he remembered the desert, but with an upside down map he said all he remembered was that it was hot.  They all agreed and let all the information settle down amongst themselves.  Finally Dresden said that was great, but did anyone know how they were getting out of the magic room.


    Gathering their stuff by the door, they looked around for anything that might be useful, but no such luck.  Feeling frustrated, Endermon thought about what she would do at home if she were stuck on something, and the only thing that came to mind was her meditation.  She pulled Shiloh aside and said what she would be doing, and could she keep the other two from interrupting for a bit?


    Shiloh nodded and led the other two to a different corner of the room.  Then Endermon started her exercises.  At first they were kind of choppy and abrupt, but as she got into it, her movements became more fluid and graceful.  Shiloh even forgot what she was doing a couple times, because she kept staring at Endermon.


    Finally Endermon finished and she said pendants.  Everyone looked puzzled until Endermon said they got in with the pendants, they should be able to get out with them as well.  They all pulled them out and began looking for things with pendant shaped slots in them.


    And then she remembered how they had to work together to get the traps set.  So they huddled together to discuss the possibilities.  There was a strange stone above the door, and it looked out of place.  So Endermon had Dresden go look at it.


    Shifting into a bird, he flew up there and with a few swipes of a talon, the stone was free,  except it was wooden.  When he came back down, he said there was a weird shaped hole behind the block of wood.  Digging a quill out of their bags, he sketched it onto the back of the big scroll.


    Unauthorized reproduction: this story has been taken without approval. Report sightings.     Seeing the shape Endermon asked if Rutus could make something like that, and Rutus said all she needed was some metal and Shiloh zipped around collecting bits of metal for her.  It wasn''t long before she had something that resembled the shape.


    Dresden took the shape and monkeyed his way to the top of the door and put the metal in the hole.  There was a click and a panel opened next to the door.  And as suspected, there was a place to put the pendants.  But this time a riddle appeared as three of the slots closed.


    It had something to do with plants and animals, so Endermon read it and in a few minutes gave an answer.  The door opened to a world full of plant life.  She kissed Shiloh and took her portion of stuff with her.  No one noticed that the treasure chest had gotten smaller when she left.


    Shiloh tried to follow her but a wall of thorns and vines prevented her from going further.  The door shut and another slot opened up.  The next sentence was in an ancient language so that was Shiloh''s cue.  She figured out her riddle and after grabbing her stuff, headed out.


    The treasure chest was smaller once again, but neither one noticed.  They were too busy staring at the wall.  Another slot opened up and a blacksmiths anvil showed up.  Rutus read and solved her riddle, grabbed her stuff and was out the door.


    Dresden didn''t have to wait long because a picture of a man turning into an animal showed up.  He solved his riddle, and grabbed the last of the stuff and headed out.  No one noticed the size of the chest.


    Who knows how long the four wandered through their separate worlds, because soon enough they were emerging from the same door they went in at the beginning.  This time the lights were on, and they could fully see the state of the building.


    There were cracks in the walls, the carpet was well worn and threadbare in places.  The paint was peeling and you could see light come through parts of the ceiling.

 Chapter 9.4

    No one hade to be told to stick together.  They weren''t certain if the place would even hold up, if the floor creaking was Amy indication.  They tried to figure out which way to go, as they didn''t have the light to rely on.


    They would have been arguing for a while if Endermon had not seen the small trails of moss heading down one hallway.  Having no other leads, they followed the moss.  After several twists and turns, they made it to a big open area and the place had windows.


    They got to the front door and paused.  They debated going outside, because the probability that the building would disappear was really high.  But they decided to go out and face whatever was going to happen, head on.


    Stepping out into the sunlight, they shielded their eyes so they could have time for their eyes to adjust.  And when they did, what they saw completely baffled them.  Instead of a bustling lakeside community there were faded and rundown buildings, nearly ghosts of their former selves.


    The town was nearly deserted and those they did see, didn''t seem to notice or care that they were there.  Even the tavern they started at was crumbling and nearly falling apart.  When they walked in the door, every eye was on them.  Not wanting a scene, she had them go up to their rooms.


    Everyone watched them go, but said nothing.  It was starting to get creepy.  Endermon found the bartender and asked if he remembered her.  And he said it was hard to remember anyone in his old age.


    Puzzled, she walked up to her room.  Not wanting to stay there longer than necessary, Endermon wanted to get packing right away.  When she got up there, she found the rooms packed up with a note on the dresser.  It said to  meet them downstairs after paying.


    Endermon left the room and went down to pay.  She gave them a healthy tip and was off.  Following the carriage tracks she found them pretty easily.


    When she caught up with them, they saddled up and took off.  They didn''t care where they were going, they just knew they needed to get away.  As they put the town further and further behind them, but staying near the edge of the lake, they began to feel better.


    Royal Road is the home of this novel. Visit there to read the original and support the author.     Pulling off into a grassy spot by the lake, they finally began to relax.  They tied the horses up and let them graze, they got a fire going and started getting dinner going.  No one said anything for a while.  Dresden broke the silence by asking what was that back there.


    They pulled out the map and saw that the town they had just left was now just some buildings.  They looked at the scroll that was now filled in all the way, but the words were jibberish.  The one thing they could all make out was that it said spread the word lest this be forgotten.  Then the scroll crumbled into dust.


    Shrugging their shoulders, they went about fixing dinner.  They ate and enjoyed themselves.  Since it was still relatively warm they only needed the fire and their cots.  It didn''t take them long to fall asleep either.


    They woke up in the morning convinced it was a fever dream, but the chest with the pendants on it said otherwise.  They realized that they never managed to open the chest, but found that they didn''t want to, if rapidly aging and dying towns were the result.


    Unless keeping it closed was the reason, then it should be opened.  They all armored up, ready for anything. And put the pendants in the slots on the top.  The lid popped open and they cautiously looked inside.  There was a mirror, 4 tokens and 4 vials.


    On each vial was a note.  The notes all said the same thing.  Uncorked, drink and look in the mirror, so it was up to them if they wished to follow the directions.  Dresden said he had nothing to lose, and drank one.  He looked in the mirror and claimed he didn''t feel any different.


    Everyone looked at the remaining three vials and shrugged they took turns drinking then looking into the mirror.  Endermon couldn''t say for certain what the others saw (or didn''t) but she saw herself doing regular princessly duties.

 Chapter 9.5

    Visiting towns, making allies, preventing wars, that kind of thing.  Then she saw Shiloh hanging around her parents, and generally looking like she belonged there.  Then she just saw her reflection.  She didn''t know what it all meant, but she figured it couldn''t be all bad.


    With that out of the way, they got breakfast ready.  They ate and cleaned up the campsite.  Then they saddled up, and hit the road.  Letting her horse run alongside the carriage, Endermon spent most of her riding time with Shiloh.  And even when they would kiss and not pay attention to the road, her horses stayed steadfast.


    They rode on stopping here and there, either restocking or selling excess.  It got harder and harder to do so because word got out and everywhere they went they had people lining up to see them.  Even Dresden got tired of it.


    But good did come from the experience.  If there was a situation that the townspeople couldn''t fix by themselves, the group would step in and help.  Rutus always found smiths and learned new techniques.  Dresden managed to start a hunter''s guild where he taught survivalism along with mindful hunting.


    I know, I''m as shocked as you are.  He would still find plenty of women to join him in the bedroom, but he was less of an asshole.  Shiloh and Endermon acted as educators and taught people many things.


    Keep on mind, this was all while they were traveling so it was usually a handful at a time.  But even so, they were glad when the towns gave way to open road with only outposts here and there.  They would ride until they were tired or hungry, make food or stretch their legs, and continue on.


    Endermon would send daily bird messages to her parents and get updates from back home.  She offered to ask for the others, but they preferred letters sent out when they got to a town or a place with a messenger service.  They told them to send the replies to their home base.


    One night they were tired of the same food so Dresden offered to hunt.  They said that''d be fine and he was off.  As his animal form retreated Endermon told him to be careful, and a surprised Dresden asked who was in his head.


    If you stumble upon this tale on Amazon, it''s taken without the author''s consent. Report it.     Endermon snickered and revealed herself, and he was fine, it was just a shock.  Endermon told the others what just happened.  Rutus pouted and said it wasn''t fair that two of the group could get inside Dresden''s head, and she could not.


    Endermon said she had no wish to willingly be inside Dresden''s mind, it was the animal brain she was talking to.  Shiloh popped into the conversation telling Rutus that it''s not a pretty place to be. So she wasn''t missing much.


    Endermon said that now Rutus was more disinclined to sleep with him got under his skin enough.  Rutus said it wasn''t her fault she found she liked females better.  They all laughed at that.  Soon enough they heard the clatter of alarmed hoofbeats.


    A deer burst into view with Dresden hot on its heels.  Just as Dresden was about to pounce,  the deer stopped and fell over.  This caused him to go sailing past the animal and almost land on his face.  As Rutus went over and collected her axe, Dresden grumbled.


    Shiloh ''collected'' the blood, Endrrmon skinned the deer, Dresden sorted out the intestines, and Rutus took the meat to be cooked.  With all four working together, soon they had several different types of deer foods.  It was no surprise to anyone, that Dresden finished off most of the deer by himself, but the others didn''t mind, it was less clean up for them.


    After dinner, they were too full to do much else, so they cleaned up and restocked the fire so they could be warm while they slept.  Dresden curled into a ball, Rutus crawled up on the cart, and Shiloh and Endermon lay on a blanket by the fire.


    In the morning they cleaned up the campsite, had some bread and fruits, and got ready to head out.  What didn''t get eaten of the deer got put away or buried.  That was another thing they did.  That way the bones and other unused or uneaten bits could go to the insects or plant life.

 Chapter 9.6

    Dresden used to make fun of Endermon for doing that, but since they drank the strange vials, Dresden just seemed more mature.  Rutus had more focus and was always fiddling with some piece of metal or another.  Shiloh was just as protective of Endermon, but was less flirty with strangers.  That is not to say she didn''t turn on the charm when she wanted to, she just reigned it in a bit.  And Endermon was less uptight.  She was still the leader of the group, still got after Dresden for his lack of manners, but was more relaxed.


    They had been riding a while when the topic of what they would do when they got back home.  Dresden said he''d like to train young shapeshifters how to hunt and how to accept their animal side.  Rutus said she was going to open a blacksmiths shop.  Shiloh said she had things to put in order back at home and Endermon said she wanted to do something, she just hadn''t figured out what.


    She hoped she didn''t have to leap right into princessing, she was having touch of a good time finding out about herself.  She still didn''t know what she wanted to do.  They tossed ideas back and forth until they saw smoke on the horizon.


    Slowing down to a stop, Shiloh took off and was back in a minute or two.  There was a house on fire and it sounded like there was at least one person still in it.  They raced there to find the house blazing.


    They dismounted and Endermon told Dresden to turn into something with a very powerful sense of smell.  She gave Rutus a piece of metal and said to make a thing to break through the doors and windows if need be.  She told Shiloh that they should go in and if someone was in there to get them out fast.


    They covered their faces with a damp cloth and went inside.  They found a young woman trying to put out the fire that had spread from the fireplace and had caught most of the furniture on fire as well.  Shiloh got the woman out as Endermon took the burning things and managed to get them outside.


    Then with no other source of water, she poured the flask over the smaller fires and got the fires put out.  Then she went back outside, and had the others start cleaning the woman''s house as best as they could.  They gave her some of their stuff and replaced the badly burned furniture.


    Stolen story; please report.     When they were done, she insisted on making them a meal to thank them.  It wasn''t much but it was enough that they all had enough for a small meal.  Afterwards, Ensermon pulled Shiloh aside and said they should send someone from the closest town to fix her house.


    Shiloh pulled Dresden away from flirting with the young woman and told him to find the closest town.  He grumbled but went behind the house and turned into a bird and went looking.  Rutus was there to keep the poor woman distracted in case Dresden came back unexpectedly.


    Well he took longer than expected and as he touched back down and turned back into a human, Shiloh patted his back consolingly. She said Rutus stole his girl.  But that could wait.  She asked him which direction he found the town and he pointed.


    Shiloh was off and back a little bit later, she went up to the woman who was talking to Rutus, and told her someone would be coming within a day or two to help fix her home.  The woman''s eyes filled up with tears and she hugged them all in turn.  There was a look passed between Rutus and the woman snd Shiloh grabbed Dresden and practically dragged him out.


    A few moments later, Rutus came out grinning ear to ear.  Dresden pouted and refused to talk to Rutus for a bit.  Once the laughter died down, Shiloh gave the woman a small dagger and said in case the people who come try any funny business.


    The woman thanked them again and they departed from the smoke smelling house, hoping it would get fixed quickly.  Smelling of smoke themselves, they decided it was prudent to find the nearest town and get clean as soon as they could.  Since it was getting dark, the chance that they''d find a place for the five of them was slim.


    Getting an inn near midnight, they managed to get two rooms and places for the horses.  There was a public bathhouse next to the inn and due to the time of night, was deserted.  They decided to split the group and go males then females.


    And within a half hour or so, both men were out with towels wrapped around themselves.  They hurried up to their room to change, and the girls went in to bathe.  They, obviously, took longer and came out a bit later.  They had brought a change of clothes with them and came out in pajamas.

 Chapter 9.7

    They went up to their room and got ready for bed.  There wasn''t much talking going on because they were all exhausted.  They went to sleep and this time there were no screams for an alarm clock.


    There were, however, 2 cups of coffee and one with dark red liquid in it.  Endermon found it better not to ask.  As they woke up for the day they went downstairs to pay for the rooms.  It was a quick transaction and they were off again.


    They had been riding a while when they started seeing familiar signs.  They were within a day or two of being home.  They rode on excitedly talking about what they would do once they got there, and a nap was the general consensus.


    Shiloh asked why a period of sleeping that had nothing to do with getting a decent night''s sleep was something good.  Endermon said it was a way to brush out the cobwebs in one''s mind.


    This novel is published on a different platform. Support the original author by finding the official source.     Shiloh was still skeptical, but Endermon said she would explain it better once they got home.  And it seemed like no time they were pulling into the courtyard.  They dismounted, and started putting the horses in the small stable.


    It was then that they noticed the modest house was so much grander than it was when they left. It was now a proper house with stone walls and a well put together wooden roof.


    After putting the horses in the new and improved stable they went inside.  There they found an inclosed kitchen, a parlor for entertaining guests, and at least four bedrooms, maybe more.  There was a path to a lavatory and a private wash room.  They could only stare as a handful of people came out to greet them.  All they said was that they were the new staff of the house.

 Chapter 10

    They stood there with their mouths open.  Endermon broke the silence by asking why they even had staff, and where did the tradesman go.  The poor people looked confused, usually when someone said they have people to boss around, they jumped at the chance.


    It wasn''t their fault, they were just given a hefty sum of money to go, fix up the house, and be servants for a bit.  No one even knew who sent the money.  As far as the tradesman, he got a well paying job in town.  As thanks, he had carved their names into a sign over each door.


    Endermon was hurt and upset that someone would take over the outpost like that.  She had some ideas, but until she calmed down, she would not be very pleasant to be around.  Without a word, she went to the stable and got on her horse and galloped away.


    Shiloh got waves of anger, sadness, and a bunch of other emotions when Endermon left.  To break the awkward silence that had settled over them, Dresden told them he and Rutus wanted a tour and a detailed description of what they all did.


    As soon as they were occupied, Shiloh took off and started searching for Endermon.  She saw random patches of wildlife where none should have been.  The emotions were nearly pulling Shiloh faster than she was already going.


    Knowing Endermon wanted space, but also a chance to explain how and why she was feeling the way she did, Shiloh found her in a tavern.  Empty glasses covered her table.  She was busy making grass grow in obscene gestures.


    Endermon didn''t stop what she was doing, but asked if Shiloh was sent to bring her home.  She nearly spat the word out like it was a bad word.  When Shiloh said nothing, but sat down next to her, Endermon continued her drunken ramblings.


    She complained that her parents didn''t trust her to make good decisions.  She didn''t need to be babysat.  She didn''t even want the staff there.  She left the palace because she was tired of always having someone there, and not feeling like she could make her own decisions.  There was always something she felt obligated to do.


    This novel is published on a different platform. Support the original author by finding the official source.     Shiloh rubbed her back and let her complain.  When Endermon tried to get more drinks, Shiloh looked at the barmaid, and shook her head no.  She then started the process of gathering Endermon in her arms and carrying her upstairs.


    Endermon was sobbing by the time they got into a room.  Shiloh would worry about payment later.  She locked the door and just held Endermon until the crying subsided.  Endermon kept apologizing for getting Shiloh''s clothes wet, and Shiloh said it didn''t matter as long as Endermon was okay.


    As Endermon wiped her face, she leaned into Shiloh''s strong embrace.  They stood there as if they were the only two people in the world.  And then a need arose and it would not be denied.


    A little bit later, they lie on the bed, exhausted.  Endermon had gotten control of her emotions, and was idly trecing patterns on Shiloh''s cool skin.


    Shiloh said they sure made a mess of the room, and Endermon giggled, still a little tipsy from before.  But she did feel okay enough to ride back to the house.  They dressed and sneaked downstairs.


    Seeing the table with the grass on it, Endermon apologized and made the grass sink into the wooden surface.  Shilohgavecthem a hefty tip and subtly mentioned the state of the room.  Then they left the tavern.


    The rise back was slower and more silent than the ride there.  They both knew they had a lot to discuss, but getting some sleep came first.  Well at least for Endermon, it did.  Shiloh''s steady arms kept the horse on track, not that it needed it, but it was nice to have guidance every now and again.


    When they got back to the house, Shiloh carried Endermon into her bedroom, and lay her down on the bed.  Endermon asked Shiloh to stay, and Shiloh said she had something to do first.


    Shiloh went outside and properly put the horse away, then she grabbed a piece of paper and wrote a note saying they were not to disturb Endermon, and to let her approach them.  Then she grabbed some perishable foods from the kitchen and put them on Endermon''s bedside table.

 Chapter 10.1

    Once all that was done, she crawled into bed and curled up around a sleeping Endermon.  Soon enough Shiloh was sleeping too.  And that was something she was still not used to, after being awake til dawn, and having to hide from the sunlight for decades, maybe even centuries.


    But when they woke up it was late in the afternoon, and true to their word, or rather the note, no one bothered them.  They could smell lunch and Shiloh zipped out and came back with some food.  They ate and Endermon said they should probably go out and face them at some point.  Shiloh asked if she was certain, and Endermon said they couldn''t hide forever.


    They got dressed and went out into the parlor.  Rutus had gone out to work on something metal, Dresden was doing some sort of exercise, so it was just Shiloh and Endermon.  A woman poked her head in and was about to leave when Endermon said it was okay.


    She had the woman gather the staff, unless they had urgent business to take care of.  No one really had anything important to do, so Endermon thought there should be introductions.  There were five in all.  A cook, a maid, a butler, a stablehand, and one who filled in where necessary.


    Endermon had so many questions, but she didn''t want to overwhelm them, so she asked them what, besides the money, made them want to come there.  It turns out, that they had all recently been dismissed from their previous services.


    She asked if they felt they had wrongly been let go, and they all said yes.  The cook was fired for burning a roast.  It was for a party, and everyone else was busy, not to mention they were the only cook there.  Endermon said she did not feel that was a firing offense.


    Turning her attention to the maid, she asked what brought her there.  The maid sat back and said she was fired for stealing some valuable piece of jewelry.  When asked if she really did, the woman scoffed.  She looked offended.  The woman said she had standards, and she wasn''t about to lift something as fake and as tacky as her employer''s baubles.


    Leaning forward, the maid said that Endermon had taste.  Endermon thanked her and said that she would appreciate it if nothing of hers went missing.  The woman faked grabbing some pearls and dramatically asked what she took her for.


    Ensure your favorite authors get the support they deserve. Read this novel on the original website.     This made Endermon laugh, and asked if there was anything else.  The woman leaned back in the chair and said she''d slept with the woman''s husband.  She seemed proud of this.  Endermon subconsciously grabbed Shiloh''s hand.  This did not escape the woman''s notice.


    The woman said she and Shiloh were fine, as women weren''t her thing.  However that fine piece of man out there doing exercises..... Endermon and Shiloh laughed and said no one had any claim on Dresden, so if she could stand what came out of his mouth, he was fair game.


    Feeling she got all she was going to get out of the maid, she asked the butler.  He said he had helped get his employer''s daughter out of an unsafe relationship.  Problem was, it was an arranged marriage, and the employer lost the opportunity to own more land, so there was that.


    Endermon said he did a good thing, and the employer could go suck it.  The man smiled and sighed.  It was a relief to hear that.  Next was the stablehand.  They looked nervous so Endermon said they could nod or shake their head.  There was plenty of time to get to know them later.


    She said in fact, why didn''t Shiloh go to the stable so they could talk where they were more comfortable.  They looked relieved, and quietlyand gallantly offered Shiloh their arm.  Shiloh took it and they left the house.  Endermon turned to the person leaning against a door frame.  Endermon said they could get closer, she didn''t bite.  They came over and said they were helping the cook prep for dinner, and didn''t want anything to burn or get ruined.


    Endermon said that when they got the chance, she''d love to talk to them some more.  They went to go back into the kitchen with the cook after thanking Endermon and promising to catch up when they had more time.


    Since she usually was the one to make dinner, she had nothing to do.  As everyone dispersed to take care of their chores, Endermon wandered into the kitchen,  but was shoo''d out by the cook.  Endermon laughed and said she was going.

 Chapter 10.2

    She ended up going to the back yard, or at least the part of the land that was blocked by shrubbery on two sides, and started going through her exercises.  She was so into it, she didn''t hear Shiloh approaching.  But feeling another person''s energy, Endermon did a kind of somersault,  and hopped up with a dagger pointed at Shiloh.


    Shiloh said, ''easy tiger, you might hurt someone doing that, and in a flash, had gotten the dagger away from Endermon and was now pointing it at her.


    Endermon smiled at the memory of how they met came flooding into her mind.  When Shiloh grumbled and said she was so frustrated at that moment, Endermon knew they were thinking the same thing.  Endermon held her arms out and they hugged it out.


    Shilohsmiled as they stood there, list in their own little world, at least for a few moments.  Until Dresden shouted out in surprise.  Endermon put her dagger away as they ran.  They saw the maid brazenly walking away with Dresden''s shirt.


    With nothing to be worried about, they laughed and went inside to wait for dinner, which should just about be ready.  It didn''t take long.  With the houseperson helping, dinner was laid out on the table and there was an impressive spread.


    They all started to eat and Endermon chided the maid for taking Dresden''s shirt.  She said she didn''t mind if they engaged in otherwise illicit activities, but not to do it around the dinner table.  The maid looked guilty for a second or two, then said no hanky panky around meal time, got it.


    They all laughed and Endetmon invited the staff to eat as well.  She said it was their hard work that put the food there, they might as well enjoy it.  The houseperson said they would bring some to the stablehand and be right back.


    As they ate and had a good time, Endermon said she knew someone else hired them, and for that she was eternally grateful, but if there was anything else they''d be interested in, Endermon would do her best to make sure they at least had a shot at it.


    The staff sat there in complete silence, forks halfway to their mouths.  The houseperson came in at that moment and asked what they missed.  The cook said if there was something they wanted to pursue while employed, they may do so.  Endermon said as long as it didn''t interfere with the rules the mysterious benefactor set, she didn''t see why not.


    Love this story? Find the genuine version on the author''s preferred platform and support their work!     They said thank you and they all went back to eating.  And soon enough, the food was gone and the dishes were cleared away.  They all went to their separate rooms.  Well the original group did, I don''t know where the staff went, they seemed to sink into the woodwork when not needed.


    Shiloh and Endermon were cuddling when Endermon said she never asked about the stablehand.  Shiloh said they were taken from an orphanage where they had managed all the animals.  When the daughter took a fancy to them, they panicked and locked themselves in the barn.


    This in turn, let the horses go, and it took several days to corral them and get the poor child out of the barn.  Since they were technically too old for the orphanage, they unfortunately had to make their way on the streets for a bit.


    Endermon said that was terrible and she''d have to find a way to help them without seeming too eager or overbearing.  Shiloh said that she''d figure something out.  Then she asked how it went with the houseperson.  Endetmon said she didn''t get a chance to talk to them, and she''d try again tomorrow.


    They settled in to sleep, even though Shiloh was feeling frisky.  Endermon said they could later, but for the moment was tired.  With a kiss, Shiloh settled down, and they went to sleep.


    After that night when they all ate dinner together, they began to act like a family, or at least had no lines of staff and employers.  They all would take turns cooking, or doing chores, and no one complained about it.


    Granted some people were better at things than others, but they all did their part in making the house run smoothly.  The maid and Dresden began seeing each other exclusively, which was not a bad thing, because it got Dresden to clean more often.

 Chapter 10.3

    Rutus and the houseperson started hanging out a lot, and soon Rutus had an apprentice (or more) they still managed to help put where they were needed, so that was fine too.  The stablehand started coming out of their shell and would even venture into the house every now and again.


    If they felt anxious or overwhelmed, they would go back out to the barn.  The cook became the one everyone would go to for advice, and the butler would join Endetmon on her meditation/training exercises.  Occasionally they would spar.


    At first Endermon would let him win, but with gentle correction, and lots of encouragement, she felt she no longer had to hold back as much with him.  His weapon of choice was the bow and arrows.


    They all coexisted peacefully, and if someone had a prior engagement the rest would fill in for them.  It wasn''t long before the staff knew all the stories and abilities of the group.  If one got hurt or threatened, the rest of the group would first ask if they had it in hand, or if they needed help, would come in with guns blazing.  Meaning, mess with one, get extremely protective others waiting in the wings.


    Luckily it never came to that, they were pretty adept at handling things on their own.  Usually it was in-house squabbles that were due to 10 people sharing a house.  But a trip into town, because let''s face it, there was always something they needed, gave them all an opportunity to calm down.


    It wasn''t long before they started making an upstairs, just for the bedrooms.  Then bit by bit they began getting materials, builders, and everything else needed for expansion.  It took a couple weeks but they gad the basics finished.  The rest they could do themselves.


    And even though Shiloh had her own room, she was hardly in it.  Same for the maid.  While  they were finishing the building, they used those two rooms for storage.  The downstairs bedrooms became a study/library, a more private meeting room for times they needed to be discreet, and a sun room.


    If you encounter this narrative on Amazon, note that it''s taken without the author''s consent. Report it.     It wasn''t long before they had a magnificent two story house and enough room for them all.  They even had some new horses born, so they also had to expand the stable and build a barn.


    But those projects didn''t take much time in the long run.  They ended up with a modest estate.  They decided to throw a party when all the buildings were complete.  They began planning right away.


    Instead of a guest list, they worked out how many could safely fit, and worked around that.  Then they worked out the menu.  Once that was done, then they started getting things brought there from the town.  They made sure to credit those who made or designed something, that way they''d get business at and after the party.


    Finally it was the night of the party and things were going great.  They had hired musicians from town, and since it was a warm evening, they had the party in the courtyard.  Whether the crowd was afraid of the group or they respected them too much, it didn''t matter, because nothing went wrong.


    Soon enough the party wound down, and the townspeople began to disperse.  It took a bit for them all to be on the way home, but it was understandable, it was nearly the whole town that was there.


    It was full dark by the time everyone was gone.  They decided to clean up in the morning.  They all went to bed happy that things went well.  And after a decent rest, they got up and started cleaning the grounds.


    Well everyone except the servant and the cook, they were making breakfast.  They got to work and had a decent portion cleaned up when the cook announced that breakfast was ready.  They sat down and ate, with easy conversation flowing.


    After breakfast, Endermon went to the study to write thank you letters to all the people who donated or made stuff for the party.  She knew her mother would have a fit if she didn''t.


    When she was done with those, she asked the servant if they would take the letters to yown to be sent out in the mail.  They took the bundle of letters and went to find Rutus.  Together they went off to town.

 Chapter 10.4

    Endermon was thinking they should have a letterbox so an in town visit wouldn''t be necessary.  But it gave them all some time away from the house, so I suppose it could wait.


    It was around lunch time when they finally got the place straightened out.  All the trash had been gathered into a pile for burning, the food was in a compost heap for gardening later on, and the place was how it looked before the party.


    It was sometime after lunch time when the two of them came back from town, seeing as they''d walked there.  When they went straight to Dresden who was lying down in the grass, Endermon thought that was strange.  From where she was sitting in the study, she could see them talking, but not what was being said.  All she could see was Dresden looking more and more agitated.


    Finally, Dresden stormed off and the maid went after him.  Endermon stretched and went to find out what just happened.  She found Rutus in her forge working on something metal.  Knocking on the wall, Endetmon stepped inside.


    She asked Rutus if everything was okay.  Rutus shrugged and said someone accosted the servant in town.  It wasn''t serious, they were only lookin for Dresden.  Endetmon asked if the people even knew what Dresden looked like.  Rutus smirked and said no they just needed to find him.  Seems like something is going down in his village.


    Endermon''s attitude shifted from concerned to accident prevention.  She told Rutus to help get the others gathered in the sun room.  She said okay, and Endermon went to get everyone in one place.


    After a few minutes everyone was standing or sitting in the sun room.  They looked to Endermon for any clue as to what was going on.  She said it had come to her attention that something was happening in Dresden''s village.


    There was murmurings around the room.  She held her hands up for silence.  When they quieted down, she said she didn''t know fir sure if it was a dangerous situation, but they would need to be supportive of Dresden right now.


    This novel''s true home is a different platform. Support the author by finding it there.     If he felt the need to go and get it sorted, they could figure out what to do then, if not, he could always send a letter to his village to see what was going on.  Dresden, who was usually the first to have a snarky remark, was staring at the floor.


    He said he was touched by her concern, but he needed some time to figure out how he felt, nevermind that something might have to be done about it.  He asked that they just give him some space and he''d let them know.


    With the meeting finished, they went to their various jobs and rooms.  The maid hung back and asked if she could speak to Endermon.  She said okay, and they sat on the chairs by the window.  It was obvious to Endetmon that the maid was expecting.  She asked her what she could help ger her with.


    The maid said she was worried about traveling.  Knowing what she meant, but not saying anything about it, Endermon asked if she needed calming potions or better accommodations. The maid said nothing like that, no ''that'' part was rather exciting.


    No, she was worried how his village might treat her.  She was an outsider, and had no shifting abilities.  Endermon held her hand and said Dresden would take care of her.  At least he should, or he would soon be getting a talking to by quite a few angry people.


    She told her Dresden was an asshole, but he was a very loyal asshole.  It had been proven many times over.  But if she get she needed added protection, she should convince Dresden that he should go with at least one of the original group to help should something happen to either of them.  The maid hugged Endermon and said she guessed a serious talk with Dresden was in order.


    They parted and Endermon went to the stables to talk to the horse''s.  She nodded at rhe stable hand as she entered and went straight to her horse.  As they talked, the other horses started making noises of protest.  With a kiss on the nose of her horse, she went to the other horses and had chats with them as well.

 Chapter 10.5

    Once all the horses were content, Endermon went inside the house.  She found things to do to busy herself before dinner and was working on her correspondence, meaning the weekly letters to her parents.  Even though she told Dresden they would wait for his decision, she felt it couldn''t hurt to let her parents know what was going on, or if they could find out anything more.


    Having finished that, she poked her head into the kitchen to see how things were going.  Once again getting shoo''d out.  She went back to her room.  She was thinking about how much had changed since she started her journey.


    She started out wanting adventure and a bit of time away from the palace.  Now she had a partner, 2 steadfast friends and a place she could call home.  She still gad no idea what to do about Dresden''s situation, but she hoped it would play itself out.


    Shiloh asked from the doorway if she was ready for dinner, and Endermon said yes.  They walked into the dining room hand in hand.  As Endermon tucked into her food, Shiloh would take sips from her flask.


    The conversation remained on what was going to happen with Dresden but he just said he''d write and see what happened after that.  They all considered the subject dropped.  But there was no lack of other conversations to be had, so it was all good.


    Later that night Endermon''s mind was racing.  All the stuff that happened since they got home was running through her head non-stop.  Shiloh held out her hand and Endermon took it without question.


    Shiloh took her up to the rooftop.  There they danced without music. The quiet and calming presence of Shiloh helped clear her mind.  While they danced, they discussed everything.  Finally feeling calm enough, they headed back downstairs and went to bed.


    The next morning, Dresden announced that he''d like to go and see for himself what was going on in his village.  He also said he''d like the original group plus the maid to go with him.


    This text was taken from Royal Road. Help the author by reading the original version there.     They decided packing could wait til after breakfast, and they ate in relative silence, but at least it wasn''t an uncomfortable one.  Once they were done they immediately went to get started on packing.


    The morning passed in a blur.  They were zipping back and forth to make sure they had everything, the cook and the butler were trying to get them enough stuff for the road, and Endermon was preoccupied with making sure they had enough of everything else.


    Once they had it all loaded on the cart, they got into their armor, and after a few minutes of getting used to it again, saddled up.  They waved goodbye to their friends and said they''d write.  And then they were off.


    The maid split her time between riding with Dresden and riding in the cart.  The main difference between their first trip in, was that the driver opted to stay at the house, so the carriage was not rumbling behind them and it took some getting used to.


    It wasn''t long before they stopped for lunch.  Endermon made sure the horses were okay.  Being forest adjacent, there was plenty of grazing materials.  Then she made a small fire.  As everyone got the chairs set up, the maid asked what she could do.


    Endermon had her find ingredients for a smallish soup.  She found the things Endermon asked for, then went back to setting up.  A short while later, they were eating and drinking coffee.


    They asked Dresden what to expect from his village, and he said there were no animals that weren''t people, so be careful what you say.


    They finished eating and got the area cleaned up.  They got back on their horses, because there was a long bit of riding that they would have to do.  Endermon let the maid ride her horse so she could ride with Shiloh.


    They rode in silence. Not because of anything in particular, they were just not in a talking mood.  They were all thinking of other things.  Being back in familiar territory, everyone was relaxed.  Endermon wondered if they would recognize any of their previous campsites.

 Chapter 10.6

    It was getting dark and so everyone agreed that it was a good time to stop and set up camp for the night.  With everyone working together, camp got set up pretty quickly.  The fire, food, and liquor was ready in no time.


    The maid politely declined the alcohol.  Dresden looked at her funny, because she had never declined before.  Endermon gave him a sharp look, and he just shrugged his shoulders.  Shooting Endermon a grateful smile, the maid sat back and enjoyed the food.


    Once dinner was done they cleaned up and decided where they were sleeping.  They formed an odd circle around the fire and soon enough they were all asleep.  It was a warm night so it was mainly just light blankets being used.


    In the morning, Endermon stirred the embers and started making coffee.  It would be bread and jam, as they didn''t have a whole lot for food other than non-perishables.  The smell of coffee woke everyone else up and soon they were munching on breakfast.


    With no plan other than riding, they could take their time if they wished.  But they all wanted to get there, so they didn''t go as slowly as they could.  But then again, neither were they running full stop.


    With that in mind, they made very good time.  When Rutus said she saw the campsite, everyone stopped to rest and reminisce.  Even though there was no obvious signs of camping the plant life remembered and told Endermon, welcome back.


    They stepped through the break in the trees and set their stuff down.  Endermon, Rutus, and Dresden went to their ''rooms'' and the maid and Shiloh followed their partners.  Endermon lay down on what used to be her bed, and Shiloh came and lie down next to her.


    She asked Endermon if she remembered when they had to hide their affections from the others.  Endermon snickered and said she was pretty sure they did a terrible job of hiding it.  Shiloh smirked and said the others must have been great actors then.


    Shiloh listened for a bit then had a mischievous glint in her eyes.  She asked if Endermon would like to have a bit of fun while everyone else was distracted.  Endermon gave her a kiss, and said not now.  Acting disappointed, Shiloh pushed herself up into a sitting position.  They snickered and then got up to find everyone.


    This tale has been unlawfully lifted from Royal Road; report any instances of this story if found elsewhere.     They were standing by the horses, chatting about nothing in particular.  Brazen as ever, Shiloh said she just wanted some alone time with Endermon.  She got a playful swat on the arm for that one.


    Laughing, they saddled up and carried on.  They rode on til mid afternoon when someone got hungry.  Wanting to show off, Dresden said he was going to hunt.  Everyone but the maid said okay, and went about getting stuff set up.


    Sure enough, in a little bit, Dresden is back with some animals to grill.  They set to work cleaning and preparing the animals to eat.  And once it was ready, they tucked in.  It was a good meal and it passed with good conversation.


    They finished, cleaned up and rode on.  They kept up this cycle for a couple days.  Ride, eat, sleep, repeat.  Even the maid was starting to get used to constantly being outside.  She would even make suggestions about their meals and such.


    They kept forgetting that the maid hadn''t been with them for longer as she would get confused when an inside joke was brought up.  But she took it in stride.  At one point Endermon pulled the maid aside and making vague hand gestures towards her midsection, asked how it was going.


    The maid said she was pretty sure he hadn''t noticed, but on the chance that he had, she was still playing it safe.  Endermon thought that was a good idea, until it was way too obvious to cover up.


    But since they were close to his village and it would be a day or two til they got there, that was a the asking Endermon would do.


    Later that nightas they went to bed there was a buzz of anticipation for the next couple days.  They were about to see Dresden''s village, so they had a bit of a hard time going to sleep.

 Chapter 10.7

    But they woke up in the morning and after a quick bite to eat, we''re off.  At this point in the journey, Dresden started telling them anecdotes about his village.  Some funny, some sad, but all were amusing.


    They were pretty sure he exaggerated most of them, but it was nice to hear him open up that they didn''t really mind.  As they rode closer in proximity to his village, his energies spiked and they could all feel the mix of emotions he was feeling.


    They were riding along when Dresden went silent.  They stopped the horses, and watched Dresden.  He was a solid mass of tension and he didn''t look happy about ti.  All he would say was something''s wrong.


    Shiloh asked if he''d like her to go ahead and see what was wrong.  He absentmindedly told her to be careful as some of those in his village were very much anti-vampire.  She said she''d be careful and zipped off into the trees.


    This narrative has been purloined without the author''s approval. Report any appearances on Amazon.     She came back a moment later and said they should all come and check it out.  They raced to the village and dismounted.  Shiloh made sure the horses were secured, then they went into the village together.


    What they saw there, made them stop in shock.  There were smashed buildings all over the place, some were smoking from being lit on fire, and there was chaos all over.


    Remembering a trick he learned in his youth, he shifted into a tiger and roared mightily.  Everything stopped.  Then a crowd began to gather.


    Everyone was talking at once.  It became clear that this was what was so urgent.  The group huddled and then spread out to help the most people.  With everyone at their stations, they could begin the process of getting the village back in working order.

 Chapter 11

    Chapter 11


    Dresden gathered the leaders of the village to find out what happened, he asked the maid to take care of and console the children.  Rutus went to the craftspeople to discuss weapons and defenses.  Shiloh was helping put out fires and clear away debris.  And Endermon was using her abilities to get the sick and injured villagers to a safe spot to assess their injuries.


    Once a person was cleared, they either went to help the other able-bodied people cleaning up, or resting if the injuries were too taxing.  Once all the villagers were checked over, and healed or resting, Endermon went to help Shiloh.


    Together with the villagers, they were able to get a good portion of the debris cleared.  They had gotten some buildings that were not too terribly smashed and set up a tavern, a makeshift hospital, a place for food, and an inn.


    The entire village came together and by the end of the day had a large portion of village cleared and ready to begin construction.  Endermon asked if they would mind help from outside to rebuild.  After a quick consultation, the leaders said that they''d accept any help that they could get.


    Since it was getting dark, the villagers went to their homes, well those that still had them.  A portion went to the makeshift inn, and the rest grabbed blankets and slept outside.  Somewhere or another Shiloh had gotten some paper, and before they went to sleep for the night, Endermon had written a request for aid from the fairy kingdom.


    She sent it off with one of the more nocturnal villagers, and they all more or less went to bed.  In the morning they gathered in front of the converted buildings.  As they had a makeshift breakfast, they tried to take stock of what things were looking like.


    There were still piles of rubble everywhere, some of the buildings had scorch marks, and most of those laid ill by the fires, or the aftermath were doing better.  Well except for those seriously injured.  Endermon said she had sent for help and it should be arriving in a few days.


    The village leaders thanked her and breakfast was finished in a leisurely fashion.  Then work commenced.  Those who were able to, did, and the stronger ones started carting off the rubble to an area for re-use.


    The story has been stolen; if detected on Amazon, report the violation.     Endermon suggested sorting stuff into types of materials.  That way if a villager needed something, they just needed to go to the correct pile.  Since it was their own materials to begin with, there would be no money exchanged.  Just not take too much.


    They all thought this a good idea, and Dresden was put in charge of the sorting.  He grabbed some of the more enthusiastic teenagers, and soon had an assembly line of sorts.  They were working well into lunch time.


    Endermon had to admit, that Dresden took to a leadership role very well.  He handled disputes and knew when to encourage and when to shut things down.  More than one time Endermon heard the kids saying how much they admired them.  Them being Dresden and the maid.


    But soon enough the teenagers were getting restless, and Dresden sent one to ask the leaders of the village if they could go hunt to increase food, and to spend some extra energy.  When they got the go ahead, they took off.


    The village was a lot quieter without them there, but it helped those who were unable to, or had other roles in the village, get stuff done.  By the time the group got back, the not meat portion of lunch was complete.


    Dresden and the others gotvto work saving enough meat for lunch, and the rest went for storage.  But it was sorely needed.  They got restocked and a large amount of food was laid out on any available surface.


    People grabbed plates, and ate wherever they could sit, stand, or otherwise gather.  People chatted about the village.  They were making great progress, but the brunt of the repairs were still to be name.  Those would have to wait for the fairies to deliver.


    With everyone pitching in, lunch was cleaned up rather quickly.  With less and less for the group to do, they went and talked to the leaders of the village.  Dresden decided to stay and finish helping rebuild the village.


    He said he would write to the group to keep them updated about when the aid came, and how the rebuilding was going.  The others agreed and began their preparation to leave.

 Chapter 11.1

    Endermon went to the hospital to do one last healing and to show the healthier ones how to help the more seriously injured one''s.  Rutus showed them how to make traps and alarms to alert them of intruders. Also how to disarm them if someone accidentally got caught in them.


    Dresden and the maid self appointed themselves the mentors of the young shapeshifters.  They would train them and guide them into being the best versions of themselves they could be.  They were also temporary ambassadors to the fairy kingdom.


    It was a sad time as the group prepared to leave Dresden and the maid in the village.  Shiloh presented the leaders of the village with a sum of money and ger personal guarantee that she would help, they just needed to send the word.


    If anyone xared about her being a vampire, they didn''t show it.  They accepted the funds and wished her well.  As Shiloh went back to the group, Endermon threaded her fingers between Shiloh''s and pretended they weren''t getting weepy.


    With a final farewell, the three of them rode off out of the village and back towards their house.  There was no denying that the ride was quieter but they could also just ride and chat.  Plus with Dresden at the village Shiloh could ride his horse.


    Despite the circumstances, there was easy conversation, and a light mood.  They wondered what would happen to the village and how the supplies would go down with the villagers.  They could only wait for the letter, and to do that, they needed to be at home.


    They rode on, swapping stories of Dresden''s mishaps.  Endermon recalled when Dresden tried to hit on a man.  She said it wasn''t his fault, the man did have really nice hair from the back.  But when he turned around with a full face of hair, Dresden suddenly had other places to be.


    Shiloh told them of a time when he wanted to sneak up on her and scare her.  She waited til he was about to ''pounce'' and she told him he needed different cologne.  They all snickered at the thought of Dresden thinking he could surprise Shiloh.


    Rutus chimed in with a time he tried to out-throw rutus in a knife throwing contest.  He lost by a long shot, but claimed he did it on purpose.  When they were picking up the knives, Rutus flicked one last knife out of her hand and it speared a falling leaf.  As a bonus it embedded itself and the leaf about an inch from Dresden''s face.  Rutus said something startled her and it was just a reflex.


    Stolen story; please report.     It was late in the afternoon when they stopped for a bite to eat and to stretch their legs.  They had a quick lunch and were on their way again.  With it being so quiet, Endermon was able to listen to the animals and hear what they were saying.


    Wasn''t much of importance, but small bits of information popped up here and there.  There was talk of a gang of bandits in the area.  The birds also mentioned a bounty for them if anyone was lucky enough to catch them.


    Asking the birds where they were seen last, Endermon apologized for eavesdropping.  The birds were not bothered by this, they were tired of their relatives disappearing.  So they gave Endermon directions to the area they had been seen in.


    As Endermon nudged her horse in the direction the birds said, the others followed her lead.  Endermon stopped and asked Shiloh if she could hear anything that sounded ''off''.  Shiloh listened for a but and said there was a group of people not far away that were having some very loud and conflicting thoughts.


    Endermon asked if she could tell them apart.  Shiloh said she''d have to get closer.  She zipped off and was back a few minutes later.  There was about five of them and a couple of them just wanted to go home, as they had made a huge mistake.


    The othe three were each thinking they were in charge and had different ideas as to where to hit next.  They were trying to make a name for themselves, although it wasn''t working out for them. Vendetmon asked if she could get the two away from the three.


    Shiloh raised her eyebrow in an amused but did you seriously just ask me that kind of way.  Endermon smirked and playfully shoo''d her away.  Soon enough, two very frightened people ran towards them and were easily detained.

 Chapter 11.2

    They said they joined up with them because things weren''t going great.  Jobs lost, people close to them dying, and just general misfortune.  The three promised fame and riches.  Or instant death if they didn''t join up.  So with nothing left to lose, they became the fourth and fifth members of the ''gang''.


    Endermon told them to go home, or if they couldn''t go home, to go somewhere and start over.  When they said they didn''t have any money because the ''leader'' took it all, Endermon gave them enough for a night in an inn, and the names of people looking for workers.


    The two took off at a quick but noticeably happier pace.  Once they were out of sight, Shiloh showed up and asked if they were ready to have some real fun.  They silently went into the trees to gind out what was going on.


    Three voices arguing rang out throughout the otherwise quiet forest.  When they were just out of sight of the three ruffians, they stopped to listen to the argument.  One wanted to hit Dresden''s village because it was still reeling from the first one.


    The next one said they should do some old fashioned highway robbery.  The third one suggested a few days journey to get to the two story estate.  Endermon almost rushed in with her dagger ready to do the talking, when Shiloh put a hand on her arm.


    The first one said it was too much work and still voted to go to Dresden''s village.  The second one said it was a good idea.  The third one sulked and Saud the estate was better.  Silence ensued as the three men tried to come up with a new plan.


    This is when Shiloh got a fiendly gleam in her eyes.  Then the second one said something about a rendezvous with a female member of the first ones family.  He did not take kindly to this and put a knife through the second one''s hand.


    When the third one laughed, a brawl broke out.  Fists and weapons were flying about and it wasn''t long before all three were down, severely injured and bleeding.  Shiloh was eying them hungrily.


    This tale has been unlawfully obtained from Royal Road. If you discover it on Amazon, kindly report it.     Endermon held up two fingers, and then pointed one finger at Rutus.  A couple of seconds later, there was the unmistakable sound of two lives ending.  Endermon walked calmly up to the dying man and said she could heal him and he could go free, or she could get her shapeshifter friends to get him to explain why their village was targeted in the first place.


    She healed an area and asked if it felt better.  He could only nod.  She went on to ask why he thought it was a good ideato hit the estate, and how he heard about it in the first place.  He could only gasp out in pain.


    Endermon was healing the man as slowly and as painlessly as she could, but it was taking too long.  Endermon called Shiloh over and asked for help.  Shiloh wandered over and listened for a bit.  Endermon was doing her best, but his injuries were too great and he passed away.


    Turns out, he was one of the maid''s former employers.  He was jealous that the maid never wanted to sleep with him.  So after the party, he learned about the maid and Dresden''s involvement.  He convinced the first one to attack Dresden''s village, hoping he was there.


    When he wasn''t, they ran, strong-arming the othe three into being part of the ''gang''.  Which is why he was so eager to get back to the estate.  He must have known he''d be doomed either way.  Or if he hadn''t, who knows what was going through his mind.


    Together they cleaned up the area, gave them a quick burial, and gathered up all the stolen goods to take back to the shifter village.  When they were done, the area looked like most any other hidden spot on the trees.


    Shiloh took the stuff and took it back to the village.  Endermon and Rutus got the horses ready.  It wasn''t long before Shiloh was back.  Since it was late evening when she got back, they decided to set up camp for the night.


    Once that was done, due to the events of the day, they all fell asleep rather quickly.  In the morning after a quick breakfast, they set out again.  They were riding, the events of the last few days weighing heavily on their minds.

 Chapter 11.3

    They rode in silence for quite a while until Rutus couldn''t take it anymore.  She said for all her big talk, she really didn''t enjoy taking lives.  Shiloh just shrugged and said she needed to eat.  Endermon was still upset that she couldn''t do more to help the man.


    Shiloh told her not to worry, she didn''t sink to their level by being petty.  Endetmon just sighed and continued feeling morose.  Knowing this was something she''d have to work through, Shiloh left her to it.


    It was lunch time when Endermon snapped out of it.  She made a decent lunch and they chatted about nothing in particular.  Endermon hoped they were far enough away before the help arrived.  She really didn''t want the hassle of talking to them.


    Not because she thought herself above them, but because she hated public speaking.  While she was good at small groups, large groups ramped up the stage fright.  It was one of the things her mother wished she was better at, considering she was to be queen someday.


    So she just wished she could be far enough away to mot be expected to make a speech.  But she didn''t have to worry about that, because she was traveling in the same direction the aid would be coming from, so unless they bypassed the village altogether, they wouldn''t even see each other.


    They rode until lunch time when they decided to have a debrief.  They discussed everything that happened since they left the village.  Endermon said Dresden would have enjoyed taking those three down.


    Of course it would have been a lot louder and messier.  All of a sudden, Rutus started twitching.  She then glared at Shiloh who said she couldn''t help it, she had too much energy, and it had to go somewhere.


    Rutus said she had a place her energy could go, and Endetmon stepped between them so things wouldn''t escalate further.  With one hand on each of their arms, Endermon got a full body shiver and saw designs for weapons flash through her mind.


    Rutus''s eyes widened, her irritation at Shiloh forgotten.  She wasn''t sure 8f she should be shocked or mad.  So they stood there awkwardly.  Finally Endetmon took her hands back, and the flashes stopped.


    This content has been unlawfully taken from Royal Road; report any instances of this story if found elsewhere.     Endermon apologized to Rutus and stepped a few paces away.  Rutus and shiloh also stepped back.  Staring at each other, Rutus was the first to break the silence.  She asked what ''that'' was, but no one knew the answer.


    With a puzzle to solve, Endermon looked at the two women and said there needed to be an explanation, and some experimenting was in order.  Feeling like they were in school again, Rutus and Shiloh found seats, thoughts of lunch forgotten.


    Being a mess of excitement and nervous, Endermon began pacing and talking (mostly to herself) she began ticking things off on her fingers.  The other two watched, fascinated.  Endermon said Shiloh could read thoughts and have minor mind control.  Shiloh nodded.


    Rutus was a whiz at making things out of metal, and was the quickest she''d ever seen.  Rutus beamed and let the praise surround her.  So far Endermon had not said anything they didn''t already know.


    She went on to say she could communicate with plants and animals and could heal superficial wounds or non-life threatening ones.  So how was Endetmon able to see what Rutus was thinking?  She asked if Shiloh needed to touch the person to hear their thoughts.


    Shiloh said no, event though Endermon already knew that, she was just going through her process.  She said that since no one was injured, there should be nothing to affect Endermon or Rutus.  Then she stopped and stared at the two.


    They looked puzzled but expectant.  Endermon put her hand on Shiloh''s arm and got a warm, romantic feeling from Shiloh.  She took her hand away and the feeling stopped.  Endermon then put her hand on Rutus''s arm and got nothing.  Confirming that Rutus also felt nothing.


    She then called Shiloh over and placed her other hand on Shiloh''s arm.  As soon as she made contact, all three felt the jolt and could tell what the other two were thinking.  Not wanting to invade the others privacy any longer than necessary, Endermon put her hands by her sides.

 Chapter 11.4

    Rutus said that was weird, and they all sat down, pondering what that meant for their future.  Then someone''s stomach rumbled and they threw together a quick lunch.  After eating and cleaning up, they saddled up and headed off down the road.


    Later that night after they had settled in for the night, Shiloh was feeling restless.  It was as if she had five cups of coffee and was too wired to sleep.  Which makes sense, seeing as she had not had a full meal since the incident at the coast.


    So Shiloh and Endetmon started fooling around, and Rutus said if they were going to do that, to go elsewhere and let her sleep.  Endermon apologized and got whisked away.  Things happened and even though it was thoroughly enjoyable, Endetmon was getting tired.


    Shiloh brought her back and after promising to behave, zipped off into the night.  It was almost dawn, when Shiloh returned.  She had a bag of money, some clothing for Endermon and Rutus, and a box of supplies they had been running low on.


    She lie down next to Endermon to get some sleep before everyone woke up for the day.  It was late morning before Shiloh woke up to see nearly everything was ready to go, except her.


    Leaning against a tree, she asked why no one woke ger up to help.  Endermon said she looked so peaceful sleeping that she didn''t want to wake her up.  Shiloh smoothed out her wrinkled clothes and with one last look around, got on Dresden''s horse and they rode off.  It would still be a day or two before they were home again, so they wanted to make the stops as short as possible.


    They rode on and by the time they got home, there was a letter from Dresden saying the aid had arrived.  They set up a proper hospital and got the communal buildings up and running.


    They hadn''t rebuilt all the houses yet, but they were working on it.  He thanked Endermon and the others and said he''d stay there until the repairs were finished.  He didn''t know when they''d be done, so he didn''t know when he''d be back.


    With two signatures at the bottom of the page, the letter ended.  Endermon found the servant and had them write a return letter, and then they all went to their rooms for a rest.


    This content has been unlawfully taken from Royal Road; report any instances of this story if found elsewhere.     With the staff taking care of the horses and their stuff, all Endermon wanted to do was sleep for a bit.  She told Shiloh it would be nice to snuggle for a bit, even if Shiloh wasn''t tired.  Shiloh obliged and they promptly went to sleep.  Apparently Shiloh was more tired than she thought.


    Later on that evening, there was a line outside the wash room.  All three of them needed to bathe and get some fresh clothes.  They didn''t argue about it, they just went in, bathed, and came out.  By the time they were all done, it was dinner time.


    The conversation centered around Dresden''s village.  They told what happened and there were shocked faces.  They said Endermon sent for aid from the fairy kingdom, and it got there shortly after they left.


    The butler asked if they ever found out who did it and why.  Shiloh said it qas an interesting encounter in the forest.  Four faces looked on expectantly.  She told them a shortened version on account of people wanting, but she gave an accurate depiction of what happened.


    Endermon watched as the servant looked to Rutus to see if she was okay.  And as they held hands Rutus tenderly told them that she was fine.  Endermon thought it was sweet.


    After filling everyone in on what happened on their adventure, talk mostly died out in davor of eating.  It was nice having a home cooked meal after being on the road for a couple of days.  And now that everyone was caught up on what happened, they could go back to their routines.


    Endermon went to the study and started writing a letter to her parents.  She thanked themfor the aid and told them what happened after.  She asked how things were at home and if they needed anything.  Once she signed her name she sealed it and put it into a pile to be mailed.


    Then she went to the kitchen and babbed some food without being seen by the cook or she''d have gotten a talking to.  She went to get other things and disappeared to the back yardfor a few moments.  When she got back, she found Shiloh.

 Chapter 11.5

    Taking her by the hand, Endermon led Shiloh to the back yard where a picnic was set up under the stars.  There was food for Endermon and Shiloh''s flask.  There was also a bottle of wine.


    Not taking any chances, Endermon had nabbed a blanket.  They snuggled up under the blanket and watched the sky as they had their food.  As they discussed constellations and the phases of the moon, they had drifted closer together.


    Soon, whatever food was left, was forgotten as hands began to wander.  Things were getting serious as they heard their names.  Shiloh swore, then with one last kiss, gracefully got up to see what whomever needed.


    When Endermon joined her she was annoyed to find they were just wondering where they were and did not want anything specific.  After cleaning up the impromptu picnic, Endermon sulked in her room.  She thought about asking if Shiloh would like to run away together, but thought better of it.


    Shiloh returned to their room and locked the door.  After a brief conversation, they continued from where they left off.  And this time, no one interrupted them.  Afterwards they went to sleep and stayed that way until morning.


    There wasn''t much going on except breakfast, so there wasn''t any rush to get there.  Well except for the fact that the cook could get a little testy if all were not present for meals.  So they got dressed and sleepily shuffled into the dining room.


    There they were greeted with cups of coffee, each to their liking.  Some porridge and a variety of fruit.  As everyone sat down to eat, they were glad there was no urgency.  They could eat as fast or as slow as they pleased.


    After breakfast, the cook mentioned they were out of some kitchen staples.  Endermon volunteered to go.  It would be nice to just be out and about.  As the stablehand got her horse ready, Endermon asked if there was anything anyone else needed.


    Rutus asked if she could get some leather for her metalwork accents.  The butler needed some grooming accessories.  The stablehand and the servant didn''t need anything, and the driver wanted a chess board.  Apparently he and the butler had a carved one, but the pieces kept getting lost.


    Unlawfully taken from Royal Road, this story should be reported if seen on Amazon.     With everyone''s wants and needs addressed, Endermon saddled up and started off.  A couple of seconds later, she heard hoof beats coming up behind her.  She asked what Shiloh needed in town, and Shiloh laughed in response.


    As they rode alongside each other they talked about nothing in particular.  They decided to split the town tasks.  It would go faster with the two of them.  Soon enough, they arrived in town and set about getting everything from the wish lists.


    It didn''t take long to get everything, and whatever they couldn''t carry, got delivered.  They met up where they tied up the horses and set off for home.  It was a quiet late afternoon ride and it passed quickly.  When they got back, it was nearly dinnertime.


    They helped put the stuff away and then got washed up for dinner.  They didn''t plan it, but Endermon ended up between Rutus and Shiloh.  She was trying not to, but on a couple occasions, her hands touched both Shiloh and Rutus at the same time.


    Each time, the jolt happened and they really had to try not to let it show.  Fortunately, no one else at the table noticed until one time she accidentally dropped her fork.  Rutus told Shiloh to keep her pervy mind to herself.


    Then when Endermon got up to get a different fork, everyone was staring at them.  With different levels of embarrassment on their faces, they gave the shortened version of this new development.  Everyone thought it was interesting and then went back to eating.


    Afterwards they went to do their own things.  Despite the news at dinner, it was a calm evening.  Rutus and the servant were outside working on metal.  The cook was cleaning up the kitchen, and the butler was out in the stables.


    Shiloh and Endermon were in the study reading.  Well Endermon was trying to read, Shiloh was still in a mood so she was pestering Endermon.  Finally Endermon said if she wanted something she should just ask.  Shiloh stuck her tongue out and said Endermon was no fun.

 Chapter 11.6

    Sighing fondly, Endermon put down what she was trying to read and said she was going to their room.  Shiloh was welcome to follow if she wished.  Grinning triumphantly, Shiloh giddily followed Endetmon to their room.


    Later that night they lie there and were seriously talking.  They discussed everything.  It hit Endermon that she was sort of homesick.  She wanted to go back to visit before hanging up her independence.  Shiloh said it made sense, seeing as she had to go back and rule at some point.


    They decided to leave within the next few days, but they wanted her visit home to be a surprise to her parents.  With half a plan forming in their minds, they went to sleep.


    In the morning they gathered everyone in the sun room.  They said they wanted to visit Endermon''s parents and would need a couple days to get things ready.  They answered all the questions and then everyone dispersed for the day.


    Well everyone except Rutus, she seemed to have something on her mind.  They sat down and Rutus asked if it was just going to be Shiloh and Endermon going on the trip.  Endermon said Rutus could come if she wanted.


    Rutus asked quietly if they could stop in the mountains before Endermon''s.  She said of course they could.  If Rutus wanted to visit home first, she saw no problem with that.  The relief in the room was palpable.


    Rutus grinned an ran off to tell the servant.  Endermon smiled and went to find Shiloh and tell her the news.  When she did, Shiloh said she hated the cold, it dulled her powers and made her need to eat more often.


    Endermon said they''d figure something out, and Shiloh sighed and said for Endermon, she''d do anything.  But if another vampire heard her say that, she''d deny it.  Not that there were many other vampires around, but you get the picture.


    The next couple of days passed in a flurry of activity.  There were horses to get ready, a cart to pack, winter clothes to get in case the mountains got too cold, and a number of other things to do.


    Stolen from its original source, this story is not meant to be on Amazon; report any sightings.     The staff didn''t need instructions, they had it down by now.  Do a room sweep every couple of days, check on horses, don''t let anyone in without written permission, etc. etc.


    But they were ready to embark on their journey.  Rutus had made some fur lined armor for the colder months that were rapidly approaching.  And to no one''s surprise, it fit perfectly.  Each set perfectly tailored to the wearer''s needs.


    She even made a set for Dresden.  She made pieces for the maid, well actually the servant made the maid''s armor under the watchful eye of Rutus.  They had actually come quite far in their blacksmithing journey.


    The cart had food, blankets, cots, cookware, extra wood should they not come across any suitable. (but they were traveling through a forest, for crying out loud)  They had money hidden away for emergencies, and some extra provisions for Shiloh.


    They were about ready to go, when the servant ran out of the house.  Rutus hopped of her horse and went to ask them what was wrong.  They said wrong wasn''t the case.  They told Rutus to be careful and they''d be thinking of her the entire time.


    Shiloh and Endermon had to fight to not say anything.  They watched as the servant whispered something to Rutus, and they kissed.  Shiloh let out a wolf whistle and the servant turned bright red.


    Rutus, however, flipped Shiloh off and kissed the servant again.  It was clear they wished to continue, possibly to the bedroom, but Rutus reluctantly separated frome the servant.  With tender words passed between them, they were finally on their way.


    Rutus could not stop grinning like a fool.  They rode on in silence until Shiloh said, "You and the servant, eh?"  Rutus said yes, was there any problem with that?  Shiloh just smirked and said it was about time.  Rutus rode her horse nearer to shiloh and playfully swatted her arm.


    There was good natured bickering between the three of them as they rode down the familiar path by the river.  They still used the mermaid flask, but with running water nearby, they didn''t use it much.

 Chapter 11.7

    Someone''s stomach gurgled, and since they had not started the day out with breakfast, they stopped and started getting a meal ready.  They took a small amount of stuff, just enough to keep them going for most of the day.  They worked well together, and soon enough they had a smallish breakfast made.


    As they were eating, Endermon asked Rutus if she had a plan for when she got there.  She said no, but could come up with something on the fly.  She said she would also appreciate it if they stayed at least nearby.


    They said they would stay as close as Rutus needed.  Leaning against a tree, sipping from her flask, Shiloh asked about whether or not the servant would have liked to come with them.  Rutus thought for a moment and said as much as they would have liked to, they had duties at home.


    This novel is published on a different platform. Support the original author by finding the official source.     As they finished and cleaned up, they were still talking about the journey ahead.  They had three places to go and only an idea about how to get to the first one.


    As they rode on, it became clear that their adventure was just beginning.  Endermon felt the way she did when she first left.  Shiloh rode on in silent amusement, and Rutus tried to cover her antsyness by swinging her folded axe by her side.

 Chapter 12

    They rode on in intermittent silence, but it was never awkward.  They played word association games, had little bets going on, but had a rather pleasant time.


    A question that had been hanging out in the back of Endermon''s mind, pushed its way to the front.  She asked Shiloh how her driver was doing, since he''d come to live at the estate, and didn''t seem to do much driving anymore.


    Shiloh Saud that he had served her for many years and had more skills than just driving.  He would set up ''meals'', keep intruders who were dumb enough to try to attack Shiloh away in the daytime.


    She said he would do anything she asked without question.  Rutus bluntly asked if he was a vampire too.  Shiloh laughed and said no, just a very loyal and devoted human being.  She had saved him from a particularly bad time in his life.


    Endermon said if it was too much, they could leave it at that.  Shiloh breathed deeply, showing more emotion than Endermon had ever seen.  But she said it was fine.


    She said he grew up in a normal family and things were great.  Then jobs were lost, health problems, and various other obstacles life threw at them.  When his brother got shot in a hunting accident, he turned to booze.


    With him being drunk all the time, he had no moral compass.  All that mattered was getting his next drink.  When he found out his parents had passed away, he went to their funerals but left before anyone saw him.


    She entered the scene close to ten years ago.  He had Bern panhandling, or outright stealing stuff to get more alcohol.  He was in a bar and had just run out of money.  He was arguing with the bartender when Shiloh waltzed in.


    She had come for food, and was looking at the menu, as it were.  But the mental noise was making it hard to concentrate.  When he finally got thrown out, she asked the bartender about him.


    He told her all he knew, and she went out to find him passed out in the street.  The thought crossed her mind to end his suffering, but with her new found background info, she thought it would just be cruel to do that.


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    She may have been many things, but needlessly cruel was not one of them.  And when some drunk jerks decided it would be fun to mess with him a little, she lost it.  Shiloh said she was not proud of it, but she took care of the drunks.


    Afterwards she left some money on the bar and picked the poor man up and took him to an inn.  She stayed with him til dawn, but left some instructions with the staff.


    In the end, she got him off the booze, helped him make peace with his horrible past, and gave him a place to stay in her cottage.  At first he just lived there, then when someone tried to get at Shiloh in the daytime, he fought them off.  And that''s how he got his job.


    It was a somber mood for a while after that, but they were near their pre-estate campsite.  They tied off the horses to a tree and got them some feed and some water.


    They went just inside the tree line and set up camp.  Well enough to have beds and food.  They made a decent dinner and ate.  There was conversation and still a little sadness in the atmosphere, so once they finished, they went to bed.


    And this time it was Endermon who stayed up to watch Shiloh lie there.  It was nice being able to watch her sleep.  Getting tired, she snuggled up to Shiloh and was very pleased when she put her arm around her in her sleep.


    In the morning Endermon woke up to the smell of coffee and an empty bed.  She stumbled out to the fire and gratefully took a sip of fresh coffee.  Shiloh had put some honey in there to make it sweeter.


    Rutus soon joined them and Shiloh gave her a cup as well.  Once they had their coffee Shiloh proposed a trip into town like they did when they first got started.  Before Endermon could protest about leaving their stuff, Shiloh pointed to a shrub in the back corner.  Upon closer inspection, it was all their stuff.


    Shiloh looked smug and said a tree had fallen to graciously give them branches and leaves.  Endermon could see chop marks at the end of one of the branches.  But it made Shiloh feel better so she didn''t mention it.

 Chapter 12.1

    They saddled up and headed off into town.  They reminisced about how much had changed since they started out.  Rutus asked how Endermon and Shiloh became a ''thing''.  Endermon and Shiloh traded glances, then burst out laughing.


    Rutus, confused but patient, waited until they were more composed.  Shiloh said she just put a dagger to her throat, no biggie.  Rutus demanded an explanation for that one.  Endermon said Shiloh thought she was a man who scared away her dinner.


    Rutus still had questions, but turned to Endermon and apologized for the target practice when they met.  Shiloh bristled at that, but with a glance from Endermon asked how that went down.  Rutus said she was angry and trigger happy.


    It wasn''t until Endermon took down her hair that she realized she nearly started a war with the fairy kingdom.  Shiloh snickered.  And then they turned to Endetmon and nearly at the same time, asked if Dresden tried to cause grievous bodily harm to Endermon as well.


    Endermon said no, as he was trying to get her to sleep with him.  She shared how she met Dresden and the other two howled with laughter.  They traded stories until they got to town.  They tied up their horses at a hitching post and went to a tavern.


    They had a few drinks and asked about the inn near the clock tower.  Again no one knew anything about it.  Thanking them anyway, they went out to find some food.  They found food vendors and a market of some variety.  They wandered through buying portable foods and little trinkets here and there.


    By the time they got back to the horse''s, it was getting to be evening.  So they rode back to the camp at a brisk pace.  It was well into nightfall when they returned.  Not wanting to continue traveling, they stayed the night, once again.


    This time in the morning once they had finished their breakfast, they loaded up their stuff and were off.  This time they were able to see their very first campsite which was now largely underwater.


    Rutus asked how she knew to get them out of there so quickly.  Endermon said the birds told her they needed to leave urgently, so they left.  Rutus nodded and said fair enough.  Shiloh looked shocked fir a second then composed herself.


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    As they rode on, they could hear voices in the trees.  They must be getting closer to Dresden''s village due to the excitement in the air.  When several animals rushed out of the trees, Endermon knew they had made it.


    The moment when all the charging animals stood up to become people was nothing short of magical.  Some still hadn''t mastered the shifting with their clothes staying on, but they''d get there.  After dismounting, everyone followed Dresden to the village.


    It looked a whole lot better than when they left.  Most of the buildings were rebuilt, all the rubble was gone, and there were even some walkways.  In the middle of town a space was roped off for something big.


    As they walked throughthe village they kept seeing these round patches on people''s clothes and buildings.  On closer inspection it was a symbol of the fairy army.  Endermon asked about it and Dresden said that someone asked for volunteers to be civilian fighters.


    Inwardly Endermon groaned because it sounded like kingdom expansion stuff, but outwardly she said it sounded great.  Dresden gave the group a signal and they went off to do their own things.


    He then walked them to the tavern for some refreshment and some food.  There he asked them what had been happening since they left.


    As they were eating, they told him all that he missed and why they were in the area.  He asked if they needed him to come with, and all eyes were on Rutus.  She Saud if he wasn''t too busy, he was welcome to come along.


    Since they weren''t going to be there long, they ate at the tavern, and had a brief tour by Dresden.  They asked if the maid would be joining them to the mountains and he said he''d have to ask if she was feeling up to it.


    After a quick trip to his house, he returned and said she preferred to stay there.  He gathered a travel bag and met the others by his house.  A group of young shifters waited there as well.  He told then he had to go but would be back soon.

 Chapter 12.2

    He put the oldest one in charge second only to the maid.  He said if there was any funny business, he would know.  He has spies in the woods.  Rutus Shiloh and Endermon knew he was talking about Endermon, but none of the group of shifters knew that.


    They looked around nervously and swore to be good.  Once that was taken care of, Endermon took her crew once more to the edge of the village.  With a final warning to behave or he''d know, they saddled up and began their trek into the mountains.


    Endermon knew it would be a day or two until they reached the base of the mountains, not to mention all the false paths and pitfalls the mountainfolk had placed there to deter thieves and other such unpleasant types.


    So she asked if Rutus would like to take the lead when they got to the mountains.  Yes it had been a while, but she still remembered where she grew up and had free run of all the trails, so while on flat ground, Endermon was in charge.


    For the first little bit Dresden complained about being uncomfortable in the saddle and Endermon said he could go without a horse, and he kept fidgeting, but otherwise quieted down.  Well he did until he started talking about the group of shifters he led.


    The others rolled their eyes and let him go on.  And then promptly tuned him out.  Thing is, he didn''t seem to notice no one was listening.  He finally finished as they came out of the tree line.  Endermon said to stick to the edges of the meadows as much as possible.


    The mountain ranges were coming up and they didn''t want to waste time crossing meadows when they could just go up a mountain path.  Rutus agreed, but was understandably distracted.


    She was getting to be known as a really good blacksmith, and had to turn people away to be able to keep instructing at a pace she was comfortable with.  But she didn''t know if her mountain family would either approve or encourage her work.


    It wasn''t that they didn''t believe in her abilities, it was that blacksmithing was a largely male dominated field, so it was rather unusual for a female to want to pursue it.  She was just worried about that.  The others hurriedly reassured her that she had nothing to worry about.


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    After that they rode on in silence until everyone needed a break from riding.  It was early evening so they decided to make camp and stay the night.  They worked together to make dinner, and soon they had a decent meal all set up.


    They ate and settled in to sleep.  They woke up to a thin layer of dew on them.  They stoked the fire and warmed up while coffee and breakfast was being made.  Finally everything was ready and they set off once they ate.


    As they got closer and closer to the mountains, the terrain got rockier and less stable.  They took to walking the horses at times.  Rutus at this point had taken the lead and said it would be easier on foot.


    Shiloh volunteered to take the horses back down, but Rutus said there was a stable a little ways away where they could keep their horses  until they were able to come back and get them.  The owner was a friend of hers so it should be fine.


    With Rutus''s guidance, they got the horses to the stable and then continued going up the mountain.  Rutus pointed out traps and told them which trails to take.  At one point, they stopped for lunch and had to be careful not to drop anything.


    Because mountain critters were far more dangerous than flatland critters.  And even though they had Endermon, it was better to keep any waste to themselves.  After eating, they made their way to a plateau that had a clear area with trees surrounding it.


    Endermon recognized it and found the tree that she nearly got axed next to.  Rutus apologized once again, and Endermon said not to worry about it.  Then Rutus said the easiest way to get around was the tunnels in the rock.


    Her place wasn''t too far from where they were, so a little bit of walking got them to an opening in the rock.  It was dark for the first little bit, then torches lined the walls.


    After a few twists and turns that they wouldn''t have been able to make by themselves, they found themselves in a brightly lit cave with a fire and several faces looking at them in surprise.

 Chapter 12.3

    But one thing was for certain, they all had various forms of Rutus''s face.  She went up and hugged her family and they did the family thing about funding over her and getting all up in her business.  She managed to push them back so she could give introductions.


    She introduced Endermon first and before anyone could bow or otherwise be formal, Endermon said they could just use her first name.  She wasn''t ready for titles just yet.  Everyone chuckled and Rutus went on to introduce Shiloh and Dresden.


    If you haven''t seen a room full of people 4 feet tall and under crowding around a 5''9" vampire and a 6''1" shapeshifter, you are missing out.  They asked a lot of questions and Shiloh and Dresden handled it like champions.


    Finally everything settled down and they got to chatting about everything Rutus missed while she had been gone.  They pulled out all or at least a portion of young Rutus stories all of which embarrassed her in the way that only families could perfect.


    At some point during the conversation, someone brought up Rutus''s blacksmithing.  The family wasn''t sure, but they wanted a demonstration.  So they all bustled through the tunnels to a large area that could only have been a communal area.


    The family asked if Rutus could talk to the master blacksmith for a second, and literally pushed her up closer to him.  It was rather comical seeing Rutus (who was taller) being stared down by someone shorter than she was.


    But Rutus said her family wanted a demonstration of her work.  The blacksmith looked questioningly at her parents, but they just nodded and he stepped away from his anvil, grumbling that she better not mess anything up.


    Rutus asked if there were any pieces of metal that were not immediately being used and he gestured to a small pile.  Rutus grabbed a medium sized piece and stuck it in the fire.


    Even though she could totally do it by hand and do it faster, she used tongs and hammers to get it into shap, and after a couple of hours, she had made a knife and it was better quality than that of the mastersmith''s.


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    He was impressed and offered to let Rutus be his apprentice.  Rutus was border line passed.  But she kept her composure and said she was going to open her own blacksmith shop, and he was welcome to stop by anytime.


    But he had a while to get used to it, because she wasn''t ready to move back home as of yet.  The blacksmith looked smug and muttered something about being able to find clients.  Rutus acted as if she didn''t hear him.


    Rutus turned to Dresden and said her apprentice made the maid some armor and she was sorry she didn''t get to give it to her when they were at the village.  Dresden said it was okay, they could give it to her when they dropped him off.  The look on the blacksmith''s face was priceless.


    They made small talk and tried out different wares and then it was dinnertime, Rutus''s family said the group was to stay for dinner and they would not take no for an answer.  They also said in no uncertain terms were they to help either.


    When it was ready, they all sat down to a hot steaming dinner of hearty vegetables and an unidentified meat.  Whatever it was, was delicious.  They even had a glass of liquid refreshment for Shiloh.


    They started asking if Rutus was serious about opening a blacksmith''s shop and Rutus said she already taught several students in the town closest to their estate.  Not to mention the apprentice she had been training personally.  Endermon and Shiloh snickered.


    Rutus gave them a dark look, but continued as if there had been no interruption at all.  Thankfully, neither Dresden, nor her family seemed to notice.  Rutus asked if they would like a closer demonstration.


    Her family looked puzzeled, but they followed her to what used to be Rutus''s forge, apparently.  There were bits of metal and leather in various states of assemblage.  Taking a random piece of metal, Rutus began fiddling with it.


    Her family tried to ask questions, but a hand on their arm and a slight shake of Endermon''s head encouraged them to just watch as Rutus worked her magic.  When Rutus made her family crest with just her hands, they finally understood.

 Chapter 12.4

    Not the magic, melting metal with her bare hands, but the dream of becoming a master blacksmith.  They decided then and there that they would do anything in their power to make Rutus''s dream come true.


    They would get the space if Rutus would send her work home.  They would act as intermediaries until she was ready to come home if that was even what she wanted.  Rutus''s smile was so wide, it looked like it hurt.


    They spent the next little bit discussing the terms and conditions of Rutus''s shop and then whether or not she would come home and visit.  She said she''d have to see.  They were disappointed, but understanding.


    Considering they still didn''t completely understand why she left in the first place, and so suddenly, too.  There was no amount of explanation that would adequately describe the need to get away, so Rutus mumbled something about an adventure, and the subject was dropped.


    There was the sound of a gong reverberating throughout the caves and since there was no window to look out of, Rutus''s family told them it was time to go to bed.  They said that sound traveled, so do with that as they will.


    They left with a wink.  Shiloh smirked, yet said nothing.  Smiling, Endermon had Rutus take her to her room.  I say room, but it was a well furnished cave.  At least they didn''t have to sleep outside.


    And to Endermon''s complete surprise, she fell asleep almost instantly, wrapped in the arms of Shiloh.  She woke up to the smell of very strong coffee and fresh bread.  Shiloh was amused as she watched Endermon act as if she were pulled by a string.


    But until she had coffee, it was best to let her be, no matter how funny she found the situation.  As someone who didn''t need to eat regular food, the notion that a hot drink that didn''t come from a person, would be beneficial to someone, was intriguing.


    Anyway, once breakfast was taken care of, they made their way to the ''market square'' with the help of Rutus.  There they saw a space roped off where Rutus''s shop would eventually be.  And, yes, it was on the opposite side from the mastersmith.


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    For the most part, people were supportive, there were some who were still a little unsure, but they could be convinced later.  There was plenty of time to get a reputable customer base, but for now it was enough that she was getting her own space.


    After talking to the builders for a few minutes about specifications, they wandered around the caves with Rutus. She showed them most of the public spaces and some either unspoken or very rarely used spaces that were included in the mountainfolks daily travels.


    When they got back to Rutus''s place they congratulated Rutus on the space for her work.  She tried to play it off, but anyone could tell she was pleased.  When they said it was time for lunch, Dresden said he''d have to eat and run.


    Mainly because he told the maid and his crew that he''d only be gone a day or two.  Rutus''s family said they''d make extra for him to take back anyway.  He tried to protest, but a jab from Endermon had him thanking them.  They ate and then Rutus insisted on escorting him at least to the mountain pass.


    Endermon said they had a lovely time, but they should go as well.  They had a meeting with her parents that she should not be late to.  They loaded them down with almost more food than they could carry and with a pleading  look to Rutus said not to be strangers.


    Rutus said she''d visit in the future, and they were off.  As they made their way back to the mountain trails, they kept the chatter neutral in case the sound really did travel.


    They hot outside and Endermon said there was the probability that her parents had no idea that she was coming.  But the animals liked to gossip and Endermon was not the only one who could talk to animals.


    Rutus said that she thought her parents were bad, and Endermon laughed.  They made it back to their horses and paid Rutus''s friend.  As they walked their horses down the trail, they talked about families and their expectations.

 Chapter 12.5

    They finally got where they could ride again and did so keeping their horses at a walk, as to not accidentally injure them or themselves.  Endermon''s horse mentioned that the cart felt lighter than usual.


    They stopped, and sure enough, anything that could be traded for or sold was gone, and that was most of their stuff.  Endermon asked that any birds in the area and any other animals go pay Rutus''s ''friend'' a visit.


    Endermon turned to Shiloh and with a look, Shiloh zipped off.  She sent Dresden back to his village as they could handle this one.  He looked like he wanted to argue, but he just went down the path on his horse.


    Soon enough Shiloh came back, dragging a very guilty looking dwarf.  Blocking the paths, they let Rutus handle it.  And hoo-boy did she tear into him.  If it were possible for a person to literally shrink, he would have disappeared.  Finally Rutus said he had a very short amount of time to bring all their stuff right there, or she would report him to the higher ups for illegal business doings.


    He turned pale and scrambled away.  It took longer for him to come back ad he was carrying a couple large sacks.  He stood there as they looked through the contents.  When they were satisfied it was all there, they let him go.


    Rutus said he should be better.  Her parents wouldn''t take kindly to hearing about his dealings.  As he shuffled away, Endermon asked what Rutus''s parents had to do with anything.  Rutus said they were a tight knit community.


    Shiloh raised an eyebrow and Rutus said he was around her place an awful lot and it was almost as if her parents raised him.  Ah, there it was.


    After resituating the cart, they continued down the mountain trail.  At the bottom, they saw Dresden''s horse and Shiloh hopped off Endermon''s horse and onto Dresden''s.


    Once they were in the meadow they were able to make up some time until Rutus asked if they could stop.  She felt bad about how she left things with her friend, and said she was going back and would meet up with them on the way back.


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    They watched her race back to the trail and disappear up the mountain.  Endermon asked the birds to let her know when she arrived and if she was safe.  They said they would and took off.


    With nothing else to do, Endermon and Shiloh headed through the meadow towards the fairy kingdom.  It was a relaxed pace and any conversation came easy.  It was always this way when they were alone together.


    They had been traveling quite a while and lunch had worn off ages ago so they stopped for dinner and to stop for the night.  They made a small fire and Endermon just reheated some of the food that Rutus''s family had made.


    Rutus made it safely and had gone back home after patching things up with her friend.  The birds and other creatures said so.  But that was while they were riding, so they didn''t have much of an update after that.


    As Endermon ate and Shiloh watched, they talked about how far they had come.  Shiloh asked if she could have guessed that they''d end up where they were.  And Endermon said she hadn''t felt the way Shiloh made her feel before, so when they first started out, Endermon would have been happy just seeing Shiloh again.


    Shiloh called her a sap, but said Endermon was different from her other paramours, but yes at the beginning she was looking forward to seeing Endermon again as well.  Shiloh said it outside the vanishing tavern that she realized the feelings for Shiloh weren''t going away.


    Shiloh said she was quite surprised at the kiss, but she also knew that staying away was just not an option.


    They decided to take it as it came, and see what the day would throw at them.  They were making good progress when Shiloh suggested they stop at her place for a bit.


    With nothing on the agenda, Endermon said why not?  And they turned down the lane towards Shiloh''s cottage.  They passed the stone wall with a black cat sitting on the gate post.

 Chapter 12.6

    Endermon was certain it glared at her as they passed.  She mentioned this to Shiloh and she just laughed.  She said it was her guard cat, and not to give it too much mind, its ego was big enough already.


    She gave the cat some commands and it slinked away to carry them out.  When Endermon got into the cottage she was blown away.  It had a kitchen, two rooms and a living room.  The irony was not lost on her that yes, a vampire did have a living room.


    There was opulence in the simplicity of it all.  There was an expensive, but well worn chair that had books stacked by it.  A phonograph and some vinyls.  Everything in the room was lived in but was not ratty or torn.


    By the time Shiloh was ready to go she had to gently pull Endermon out of her house.  Endermon seemed disappointed, and Shiloh said they could come back after the visit with Endermon''s parents.


    Still sad but feeling better that they could come back made Endermon feel better.  Munching on some dried fruit and nuts as they rode out, Endermon noticed that Shiloh had gotten changed.


    She teased Shiloh about it and Shiloh said she just wanted to make a good impression.  Endermon said that shouldn''t be an issue.  Her father would try to talk her ear off about weapons and such and her mother would just need to be asked about something to do with etiquette and Shiloh would be golden.


    They rode on either stopping for Endermon to eat or just stretch their legs.  They finally got to the edge of the palace grounds.  It was quiet.  Almost too quiet.  Yes there were people around but there was usually not this few at this time of day.


    There were usually servants running errands, merchants selling their wares and a general buzz of activity.  Today it was more subdued.  As they rode in the direction of the stables, people got more and more scarce.  It was like they were all at an event and no one bothered to tell Endermon


    As soon as she and Shiloh put the horses away, a few loud footsteps and the miniscule clink of chainmail was all the warning they got.  The guards, whom Endermon had known practically her whole life had restrained her and Shiloh.


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    Telling Shiloh not to struggle, Endermon asked the guards what was going on.  Either they did not hear her or were ignoring her.  She was so worked up about the guards, she failed to notice Shiloh was smirking at her.


    It wasn''t til Shiloh whispered something about a test that Endermon realized what was happening.  Then she felt dumb for not seeing it earlier.  Then she silently told the animals that they were traitors.  The animals just laughed.


    The guards stopped at a big wooden door and untied them.  Both Shiloh and Endermon had their hands on their daggers as Endermon opened the door.  There they were met people with weapons all pointed at them.


    Endetmon recognized them as students of all the different weaponry classes her dad had her take.  She had beaten them all countless times.  Not all at once, mind you.


    Noticing they were all practice weapons, she pulled Shiloh to a stop and whispered to her they needed to get the swords used for training that were at the far end of the room.  Shiloh said if she was still able to dance, now was the time.


    And with that, Shiloh zipped off.  That split second of confusion was all Endermon needed.  Even though they weren''t holding back, she was still able to avoid being touched by literally dancing through and around the group.


    By the time she got her training sword from Shiloh, she had already disarmed three of them.  Then the fun began.  Between the two of them, they had the entire group separated from their weapons in a matter of minutes.


    When the last one lost his sword, the room erupted into cheers.  Together Shiloh and Endermon walked to the far end of the room where her parents were sitting.  They had huge grins on their faces.


    Endermon dropped her sword and ran up to hug her parents.  Shiloh was more reserved and walked up.  She waited til Endermon ran back and dragged her to her parents.

 Chapter 12.7

    Now Shiloh was not a huggy person, but when a king and queen wish to hug you, you let it happen.  Especially if you are seeing their only daughter.


    Endermon asked why they did not simply tell her she was to fight nearly everyone in her classes, and her mom said her father wanted to fake arrest her, but was threatened with bodily harm, so he decided on a fake vastly.  Endermon said she would have been pissed if she had been arrested just for her father to have a laugh.  He just shrugged.


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 Chapter 13

    As rhey walked out of the room together, her parents started asking all sorts of questions.  Endermon gave a brief rundown of everything that happened since she left, leaving out the naughty bits.  Just as she would  rather not hear about her parents, she would rather they not hear about her.


    They asked about Dresden and Rutus and why they were not there.  She answered and they nodded.  Her dad interjected with asking if Shiloh was serious about Endermon.  Shiloh said very and he said good.


    Endermon asked why they were going to the banquet hall.  Her dad asked if it were a crime to feed a lot of people at one time.  Endermon said no but she was hoping her visit would not be publicized.


    It was what she was trying to avoid by not warning them in the first place.  She had hoped it would be more informal.  Her mother sighed and said you know how your father is, but it would be rude to send all those people home.


    Oh great she''s pulling out the we can''t be rude card.  She said fine but there would be no lines of people to talk to her.  If they wished to talk it would be like regular people do.


    Her father started to argue but her mother said a meet and greet would be fantastic.  She pushed a button on the walk and a servant came out.  She whispered some commands to him and his face fell.


    Apparently the lines were already established.  And the multiple course meal that was to be set out as soon as Endermon stepped into the room.  Endermon told her mom that she would be in ger room for a few minutes and took Shiloh''s hand.


    As they left she could hear her mother tell her father that she knew Endermon wouldn''t have liked the idea, and now he''s gone and upset her.  And no there was no point in going after her, just fix it or he could have no weapons for a week.  Endermon felt bad but he should have asked before he just did something like that.


    A little while later, a knock came from her door.  When she said come in, her father came in looking sheepish.  He said the people were waiting but not in lines.  He also apologized for not asking her I the first place.


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    She said she''d forgive him if he told her how much money he actually lost to the mermaids and why he never told her she had a mermaid relative.  He said something about it not being an appropriate time for such a tale.


    Endermon said if he didn''t tell her, she would only refer to him as his unmarried last name.  He looked shocked and asked how she knew that.  She repeated what the mermaid had told her.


    He cursed and told her of a drunken excursion that ended in a hot springs adult group activity.  Endermon couldn''t help it, she burst out laughing.  He told her not to laugh, because her mother didn''t know about it.


    At that moment her mother passed by the door and said she did indeed know, because one of her best friends (who was a terrible gossip) told her so.


    That and her father had a terrible time cleaning up the political mess they made.  Endermon''s father turned bright red and sat there flustered.  Feeling that she tortured her father enough, she and Shiloh got up and followed her mother to the dining hall.


    People were on groups and eating with their hands or sitting and dining with proper silverware.  They either waved or nodded at them when they entered the room.  They made the rounds and talked to most everyone.  Endermon nibbled on the offered foods and either listened to gossip or put in her two cents when needed.


    When she had enough, she went up to her mother and discreetly told her she was tired and was going to bed, but if the guests wished to stay and oarty then she wished them the best.  Her mother nodded and using her illusion magic and made an image of a bird in the room to cause a distraction.


    In the confusion, Endermon and Shiloh slipped out unnoticed.  As they headed back to her room, Shiloh asked if the parties were always like that.  Endermon said they were unbearably formal and boring.

 Chapter 13.1

    She yawned and Shiloh supported her as she leaned on her tiredly.  They didn''t talk much after that because Shiloh was falling asleep on her feet.  Shiloh picked her up and carried her the rest of the way.  As they lay snuggled up on Endermon''s bed, Shiloh''s thoughts wandered.


    They woke up to sunlight streaming through the windows.  As they stretched and woke up for the day, they noticed a tray of what could only be breakfast.  They lifted the lid and saw a ginormous spread.  Eggs, meat, bread, fruit, and for each type of food was a glass of a dark red liquid for Shiloh.


    They tucked in and had a great breakfast.  Then Endermon pushed a button and a servant  appeared.  She said a few words the servant disappeared.  A few minutes later a door opened up to a cloud of steam.  Endetmon took Shiloh''s hand and walked with her into the room.


    When they exited, they were clean and had fresh new clothes.  They left Endermon''s room and went to the garden where her parents usually went after breakfast.  When they got there they heard the sounds of a skirmish.


    They cautiously crept into the garden where they saw Endermon''s dad fighting a group of people.  They were about to go help when Shiloh grabbed Endermon''s hand and motioned towards the bushes.  She glanced over to where her mother was playing chess.


    Except all the pieces were surrounding one piece.  It dawned on Endermon what was happening.  Her mother was helping him stay sharp.  Each move she made, was translated to a figure that was attacking her father.


    And whether he won or simply deflected to fight someone else was answered by the movement on the board.  As Endermon sat down next to her mother, she motioned to the board and then to herself.


    Amused, her mother sat back and watched.  Not understanding chess, she caused thorny bushes to grow on the board.  This got a shout of surprise from her father.  With her mother''s guidance and her plant abilities they finally got her father to surrender.


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    He came over and was startled to see Endermon and Shiloh sitting with her mother.  He told her mother that the plants were a nice touch.  Her mother gestured to Endermon and said it was her idea.


    He beamed with pride and they talked battle tactics until a servant came and said two ambassadors were there to see Endermon and Shiloh.  They looked at Endermon''s parents to see they were as shocked as they were.


    They went to the front gate and were surprised to see Rutus and Dresden.  Endermon asked how they convinced everyone they were ambassadors.  Rutus answered before Dresden could say anything.  She simply said she didn''t let Dresden say anything.


    Endermon laughed and said they should meet her parents.  As they all went back to the garden, Shiloh stopped them and said they should probably wait, or go somewhere and send a servant to get them.


    Shiloh gave Endermon a meaningful look and Endeymon said they could go to the library.  There were couches in there.  Everyone agreed and Endermon led the way.  On the way there she saw a servant and told them she wanted to meet her parents in the library as soon as they were free.


    The servant nodded and then they went their separate ways.  As the group reclined and casually glanced at the various books and reading materials, Endermon''s parents came in looking unusually flustered and their clothes were crooked.


    Endermon leaned over to Shiloh and asked if they ever looked like that, Shiloh laughed and said most definitely.  Then Endeymon stood up and had the others do the same as she did a ¡ã45 bow, everyone copied her and her parents returned the gesture.


    Then they all sat.  Endermon said that she''d like to introduce her companions.  She pointed to Rutus and said she was quite possibly the greatest blacksmith she ever saw.  Rutus smiled and then pointed at Dresden and said due to his abilities, he was a very skilled hunter.

 Chapter 13.2

    He just nodded.  Then talk turned to the estate, and how they were dealing with the staff.  Dresden piped up and said that he and the maid were a thing.  He said it more bluntly than that, but let''s not go there.


    Rutus seemed reluctant to say anything, so Endermon asked if she wanted some assistance.  Rutus nodded and Endermon said that Rutus and the servant had gotten closer in both the master and apprentice sense, but also in the personal sense.


    When Dresden tried to comment, it earned him a look from all the females.  He took the hint and didn''t say anything.  Endermon''s mother looked impressed.  She said that based on what they knew Dresden was very outspoken.  Dresden took that as a compliment and had a self-satisfied grin on his face.


    Everyone except Endermon''s father and Dresden knew outspoken was a polite way of saying he was loud and obnoxious.  Her mother gracefully changed the topic and they talked about a lot of different topics and generally had a good time.


    But soon enough the king and queen had to resume their duties and Rutus and Dresden had to go back home.  As soon as they were alone, Shiloh and Endermon started wandering through the palace with no discernable destination.


    They ended up in a rarely used watchtower, leftover from darker times.  Now it was a place servants go to escape chores for a little bit.  It was no secret, but it was an unwritten rule that only one could be there at a time.  If the door was closed, you''d have to wait.


    There was also a sundial in the window and if a certain amount of time passed, and the person was still inside, an alarm would ring.  It used to signify the best shift had started, but now it just meant the next person could be in there.


    Endermon was expecting it to be occupied, but the door was open.  So they went in and closed the door.  Feeling certain things, they made use of the time in the room.  When the alarm rang they came out of the room giggling.


    Then they made their way back down to more public spaces.  Feeling they should start heading back to the estate, Endetmon took Shiloh to her father''s study.  He barely looked up as they entered.


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    He said her mother would be there shortly.  She had to deal with something from another kingdom.  Endermon had a feeling that it was about her and Shiloh and how they could not in good conscience try to get her to meet with suitors when she was obviously happy with Shiloh.  He did look up and say the forests and mountains were more peaceful as of late.


    Endermon took that to mean that Rutus and Dresden were responsible for that peace.  He said that all she accomplished made him proud.  Endermon dabbed her eyes and went around his desk to give him a hug.


    He then looked sternly at Shiloh and said he didn''t care what she was, if he found out she hurt his daughter, she would havecto answer to him directly.  Shiloh didn''t flinch.  She stared right back and calmly said first of all Endermon didn''t need protecting.


    And secondly, Shiloh saidxshe had a feeling if she ever hurt Endermon that Endermon would be the one to dole out the punishment.  Endermon''s father couldn''t help it, he laughed and said that that was probably true.


    At that moment Endermon''s mother came in and asked if he was threatening Shiloh.  He quickly said no.  She rolled her eyes and said of course he wasnt.  They went back and forth like that for a few minutes until Endermon''s mother sighed and said they didn''t come in to the study to chat.  It was not a question.


    Endermon looked at the floor.  Shiloh asked how she knew that they had other business to attend to and her mother said that a mother most always knows.  She also said that Endermon wasn''t the only one with extraordinary abilities, and left it at that.


    That reminded Endermon of the strange red powder they found in the desert.  She wished she had remembered to bring it so someone could study it and hopefully find a use for it.  Barely had the thought crossed her mind, when she felt something in her pocket.

 Chapter 13.3

    She pulled the pouch out of her pocket and put it on her father''s desk to everyone''s surprise.  Shiloh leaned over and asked if she did it again.  Endermon said she hadn''t meant to, she just thought someone might be able to figure out the red powder and there it was.


    Endermon''s parents were staring at the pouch in confusion.  Endermon looked at them and said sometimes her wishes immediately came true.  Before they could ask Endermon said there wasn''t any pattern to it and no, not all wishes came true.  She''d already tried.


    She pointed to the pouch and told them what was in it and why it was so important.  They still looked slightly confused but her father nonetheless pushed a button and a servant appeared.  A few words were said and the servant whisked the pouch away to places unknown.


    As Endermon watched them go, her mother said that they would let her know when they found out anything.  Endermon let out the breath she was holding and then you''d her parents that as lovely as it was to be home for a little bit, she felt the group should get back to the estate.


    After the hugging was finished, they promised to write, or just send an animal.  And Endermon and Shiloh went to her room to gather their belongings.  Endermon took this opportunity to switch out her clothing.  She didn''t give Shiloh a warning, but it didn''t matter.


    Shiloh was in the middle of going over the things they''d need to do when she stopped mid-sentence.  Endermon glanced over her shoulder to see Shiloh staring at her.  She asked if there was something she could help Shiloh with.


    And in the blink of an eye Shiloh was there and they had some fun.  Afterwards they were discussing all they''d need to do to get back to the estate.  They''d have to stop and get both Rutus and Dresden, they''d need to stock up on food and drinks, make sure they had enough various other necessities.


    Shiloh mentioned the cart would be lighter and could be harder to control.  She was being sarcastic and Endetmon swatted her arm playfully.


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    With the last of their stuff gathered, they headed out of her room and towards the palace gates.  They were met by her parents and they had some bags with them.  At first Endermon thought one or both might be joining them, but they just made travel bags to aid in their journey to the estate.


    They parted at the gates and had a semi-emotional goodbye.  Then Shiloh and Endermon hopped on their horses and went off towards the mountains.  As they rode, they talked about their time away from the estate.


    They had only been riding a while when Shiloh asked what was in the bags her parents packed.  Endermon said it could be anything and so they stopped to check out the bags.  They found food and supplies.  But at the bottom of the bags had a wrapped package for both Rutus and Dresden.


    They put the stuff away and because it was late enough in the day, they decided to have lunch.  It wasn''t extravagant, just enough to sustain them until dinner where they eould hopefully be closer to the mountains.  Best case scenario was Rutus would meet them at the base of the trail.


    But they had been riding all day and while they were closer, they still had a little ways to go.  After dinner they set up camp.  They snuggled together to the crackling of the campfire.


    In the morning they had breakfast, coffee, and rode off in that order.  By lunchtime, they had reached the mountain trail.  This time they walked their horses the entire way to where Rutus''s friend was.


    But this time it looked abandoned.  They put their horses in the stable, which fortunately had food and water for the horses.  Endermon told them to get to safety in case trouble happened upon them.  The horses nodded, and tucked into the hay.


    They headed to the mountain clearing where they met up with Rutus.  They asked what happened to her friend and Rutus said her parents gave him a job at Rutus''s space.  It was coming along nicely and even had a closed off part that Rutus could go into and make stuff without being seen.

 Chapter 13.4

    They needed no further explanation and rooted around in the bags for the present Endermon''s parents had placed in there.  They pulled out a rather small parcel and handed it to Rutus.  She tore into it and was speechless when she saw what it was.


    It was a deed to the stable that they had put their horses in.  The note stated that anyone who used the stable owed Rutus money.  It wasn''t a lot, so it wouldn''t be immediate, but it would build up.  So every so often someone would have to collect the money.


    Rutus asked how they would enforce that, if they were rarely there, and Rutus flipped the note over and it said as soon as the deed (which was enchanted) passed the threshold, would prevent them from leaving until they paid.


    And also the person or persons collecting the money would have to say a word or phrase to collect the money.  It could be anything, but once it was in place, it could not be changed.  So make sure it was something that could have multiple meanings should anything happen.


    As soon as she finished reading the note, it crumbled into red ashy powder.  That looked suspiciously like the powder Endermon had given her parents.  This did not escape the other two''s notice either.


    So this meant the fairy kingdom would profit from the dwarves, and Endermon was going to have a word with her parents.  A bird landed on Endermon''s shoulder and began speaking.


    It said there were no strings attached and the stable was Rutus''s free and clear.  But there would always be an animal keeping watch and they would know if there were any wrongdoings.  Endermon told them what the bird said as it flew away.


    They all agreed that was the best option, and now, outside of the shared estate, Rutus was a landowner.  Sure it was only a couple hundred square feet, but hey, she had to start somewhere.


    They asked what Rutus what the password would be, and Rutus shrugged and said she''d know when the time was right.  They said alright, and chatted for a while about heading back and Rutus saidshe should go and tell her parents.


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    As they waited for Rutus to return, Endermon amused Shiloh by making the foliage make shapes and words.  When they heard Rutus heading back, Endermon let the foliage do as it pleased.  She also thanked it for being entertaining.  It appeared to wave at her.


    They gathered their belongings and headed to Rutus''s stable.  As soon as they entered, there was a brief shimmery effect, and Rutus said, By the legends of Tirumia, welcome to Skarmout stables.  Then the shimmer disappeared and by the door was a box with a slot in it.


    They all looked shocked including Rutus, who seemed most affected.  They asked how much Rutus would ask for and she said she didn''t know.  Shiloh, who had rented stables before said a price which was slightly below what was usually quoted.


    Rutus said that sounded like a good enough price and as Endermon got the horses ready, Shiloh counted out the amount and put it in the box.  And by the time the horses were packed, the door was open and they were ready to leave.


    They walked the horses down the trail, and even though it took a little longer with the three of them, they made good time.  When they got back to the meadow, they were getting hungry.  So they set up and made a quick lunch.


    While they were eating, Shiloh asked where that phrase came from.  Rutus said she had no idea, it was coming out of her mouth before she was even conscious of saying anything.  Shiloh took a drink and said that it sounded cool anyway.


    They finished eating lunch and got back on their horses heading for Dresden''s village.  They chatted as they rode on, wondering how they knew when would be a good time to have someone collect the money, and where would it go, once acquired.  They figured Rutus would have to Come up with a time and tell the designated person.

 Chapter 13.5

    Endermon''s horse piped up, and said it was to be collected on the evening of the sixth day every week.  And not to worry, the appropriate people knew about the phrase.  When Endermon told the other two this information, no one was surprised that the details regarding the income had so many mysteries surrounding it.


    After all, their entire adventure was shrouded in mystery.  They accepted this and let the issue drop.  They had been riding a while and had made it to Dresden''s village by nightfall, so they made camp, and settled in for the night.


    In the morning after coffee, they headed out once again.  They made it to Dresden''s village and were warmly welcomed by those awake that early.  The village was looking good, considering the last time they saw it, it was still being repaired.


    Once again, a bunch of animals came running and surrounding them.  The horses looked at then with amusement and playfully tried to step on the animals.  But soon enough they were surrounded by people and they were being bombarded by questions and excited voices.


    A shrill whistle caused them to stop and look towards the noise.  Dresden stood there with the maid who was looking glowy, but altogether healthy.  She called the youths by name and they went to their jobs or tasks that they were to do that day.


    When it was just the adults Dresden led them to his house where there was a meal prepared.  Endermon said she hoped they weren''t interrupting.  He said a messenger told them they''d be there shortly.


    They all sat down and began to eat.  Rutus told Dresden and the maid about her gift from Endermon''s parents between bites.  Dresden looked envious about the ownership of the stable, but Endermon pointed out that he had a gift from her parents, too.  But it would have to wait til after breakfast.


    Dresden grumbled, but ultimately finished his breakfast in relative silence.  Once they were finished and the dishes were cleared away, they sat in the living room and talked about what life would be like back at the estate.


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    While they talked, Endermon rummaged through the bags for Dresden''s gift.  It was also a small parcel.  He took it and got it out of its wrapping rather quickly.  Seeing the ornate box, he seemed disappointed.  Until he opened it.


    It was a placard that said he and a select few could go hunt in the fairy kingdom.  It said not to abuse the privilege or severe and drastic  measures would be taken.  Dresden was told to keep it on him at all times.


    If he was in the fairy kingdom''s forest without it, there was a possibility that he''d be arrested.  Dresden secreted the card about his person, and made to go hunting.  The maid asked where he was going and he sat back down.  They said he''d have plenty of time later.


    For now he had to decide if he was coming back to the estate or not.  And if he was, was the maid coming too?  He looked to her for guidance and she said it''d be nice to get back to the estate.


    So while the maid was packing, Dresden was out talking to the eldest of the kids, and telling them the rules of the hunting party.  And 8f anyone misbehaved, then he''d know within minutes.


    Shiloh stepped out and whispered something to Dresden.  He said like the wagon wheel one of you broke and said it got caught in the underbrush.  They looked down in shame.  After a few seconds they told the whole story.


    Dresden said it was okay to mess about, but if property gets broken or someone gets injured, it''s better to tell someone directly.  Because if not, a small situation could turn into a big if not out of control situation.


    With the pep talk over and the youth unofficially in charge, Dresden and the maid had to finish packing.  It didn''t take long and soon they were all riding along the road by the river.  Dresden thanked Shiloh for the tip about the wheel, it really saved his ass.


    Shiloh said not to worry about it, the kid was just thinking really loud about hoping no one found out they broke the wheel taking turns being a horse and pulling a cart.  One got a little too overconfident and started doing tricks, which led to them breaking the wheel.

 Chapter 13.6

    Dresden swore and said that he''d have to have a talk with them at a later date.  The Maud piped up and said she''d already done that.  Dresden asked why he was the last to know.  Everyone laughed and he was starting to get mad.


    The maid said that he had a tendency to ignore what was right in front of him.  And that if it didn''t involve him in some way he ignored it.  Rutus said he should tell the maid about the time he made her slap him in the face.  He paused and asked when she did that.


    Rutus just shrugged and said if he didn''t remember, it clearly didn''t have as much effect on him as it did on her.  They all watched as he thought really hard.  As he wracked his brain Shiloh popped into the conversation.


    She asked about the time he got all up in Endermon''s face and called her all sorts of nasty things.  He looked at Endermon who kept her face neutral, even though inside she was reliving the memory and was not enjoying the fearful sensations.


    Breathing deeply, she pushed the memory aside, and asked him if he remembered nearly getting a towel snapping in a very intimate place.  Dresden grimaced and said yes, he was out of line and should not have spoken to her that way.


    Endermon said that just proved the maid''s point.  Unless it had something to do with his self, ego, or parts, he didn''t remember it for very long.  Dresden didn''t like that so he sulked for a bit.


    By the time they stopped for dinner, they had covered lots of topics.  Everyone pitched in to make dinner and they sat eating in companionable silence.  The only time they said something was to ask to pass something.


    When dinner was over they all pitched in to clean up and set the beds up.  And once that was over, they bid each other goodnight and went to sleep.  After a quick breakfast and some coffee when they woke up, they were off again.


    They were still in the process of being fully awake, when they heard the sounds of a stringed instrument being strummed.  They stopped and watched as a traveling musician passed by them.  He tipped his hat and continued on his way.


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    Endermon recognized him ad the same one she saved from Shiloh inadvertently.  Shiloh Saud he eould have been tasty.  Endermon said she did eat that night.  They went back and forth for a few minutes, but ultimately the conversation dried out so the could continue to wake up as they rode on.


    The cycle of ride, eat, sleep was broken up by occasional hunting, leg stretches, and bits of recreation.  But eventually they returned home.  The cook had a meal ready for them.


    As they sat and ate, they talked about their time away.  Dresden took over the conversation about how he got the young kids of the village to be a hunting club.  But the maid would interject and Dresden eventually got the hint.


    Rutus spoke about being a landowner.  She said it wasn''t much, but it would help her get her blacksmithing business off the ground.  The servant leaned over to say congratulations.  Rutus said she''d take them there someday.


    Before jumping into what happened at the palace, Endermon asked the staff what they''d been up to since they left.  The cook said they had discovered som new recipes and were excited to try them out.


    The butler said he had taken up needlework.  He said he found it relaxing.  And painful when he stabbed himself with the needle.  Everyone chuckled.


    The servant had started adding wood to their projects, so they said they''d like to properly learn carpentry.  Everyone nodded their approval, and they jumped when the stablehand said they''d like to learn to do magic.


    Endermon asked if they had learned any tricks and they shyly said they had one that they had been working on.  They pointed at Dresden and said they needed his help.  Dresden shrugged and asked what he needed to do.


    They said he just needed to hold out his right hand.  The hand that just happened to have a big gaudy ring on it.  And by sleight of hand and distracting Dresden, in a few seconds, had the ring on their hand.

 Chapter 13.7

    Shiloh asked where they got the ring, and they said they got it off a friend.  Dresden said the ring looked really similar to his.  The stablehand said, you don''t say? While trying their hardest to not crack up.  Everyone else was close to losing it too.


    Finally Dresden realized that he was no longer wearing his ring, and started to look around for it.  As he got more frantic everyone was laughing.  When he went to confront the stablehand, they put their hands on his chest to calm him down.


    And managed to slip the ring in Dresden''s pocket.  The maid suggested he look there.  He looked I there and put it on his finger.  The maid told him to go out and exercise.  Dresden said okay and went.


    The stablehand, looking really pleased with themselves, thanked the cook for the meal and went out to the stables.  Everyone else finished up their food and before Rutus could steal the servant away, the cook said they had to help clean up, then they could go.


    With an apologetic look to Rutus, they began clearing the table.  Rutus stayed to help and Shiloh and Endermon stayed as well and soon the table was cleared and the food was put away.


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    Then everyone dispersed to their various places.  Shiloh and Endermon to the study, Rutus and the servant to the forge, and the maid was sitting in the sun room with her feet up.


    Endermon wished she had a gameboard that she could use to practice or to do whatever else she wanted and decided to ask her mother to get her one.  She went over to the desk and began writing, and soon she had a decent sized letter.


    She had Shiloh read it to see how it sounded, and Shiloh said it sounded fine.  Endermon signed and sealed it and put it on the pile to be sent out.  They had just settled in with books when Dresden burst in.


    He said something was happening on the front lawn.  They all rushed outside to see the cook and the butler sitting super close on a bench.  Rutus, the servant, and the maid wandered up and asked what was happening.  Shiloh shushed her and gestured to the two on the bench.


    The butler dropped down to one knee and pulled a box out of his pocket.  The cook gasped.