《The Princes Contract》


 Epilogue

    Maegist Alacrand¡¯s hands were steady even as the tower¡¯s core shook and the foundations crumbled below it. He was alone, the others long since fled. They¡¯d given up, given up long ago in truth. Perhaps he had too, on victory at least. He had never given up on his work though. Never on that.


    Once heralded as the saviour of humanity, it seemed he would now die without plaque or memorial, a ball of dust and ash amidst a mountain of the same.


    He had been called many things in his long life, some good, most bad. In his glory days he had been declared a man of endless innovation, one who would finally guide the armies of man to victory over their nigh on invincible foe. No more, the war was over. Humanity doomed to defeat. His creations may have delayed that defeat, but they had not been enough to prevent it. He laughed, it made no sound against the roar of massacre taking place both inside and outside the tower.


    He finally secured the lock and leaned back a moment, his last objective complete all that remained was to wait for the inevitable end. He was glad he had some moments to reflect before that end.


    How sad it must be for a life to pass without its owner getting their rightful moment to think back on all that has come and gone. For it is only in that moment when it can truly be evaluated.


    He evaluated his own.


    He had just not been quick enough in the end. He¡¯d perfected his creation and their formula, but too late. Whatever the others might have said, it was never men who had the power to bring them victory, it needed more than a man. A man infused with the strength, the speed, the wildness, the ferocity of Beasts. That was their path to glory. If they had only listened. They did not trust me. Had never trusted me.


    The Foxling had proven its worth. Desra had only been in the field for a little over a year, but even in that year he had shown his value to the cause. With an army of them there was no telling what he could do. And not only with them, with the others too. He was sure his formulae would work on the other beasts just as it had on the Foxlings. He had always been sure. If only they had let me continue.


    But no, perhaps it was not their fault. He had been reckless in his haste. His experiments were necessary, but for the ordinary man he could see why they might have seemed cruel, tortuous even.


    That and those early Beastlings had not been easy to control, those first creations as much a threat to their masters as to the enemy. He supposed he really was to blame for the slaughter at Sarsut village. He laughed, it seemed rather simple to admit now as he waited for the end.


    That was where things had started to go wrong, condemned to linger in a cell he¡¯d wasted away for years as others less skilled sought to adapt and manipulate his own transmutations. None of them ever truly grasped it, never saw what it was he had brought to life. They had not come close to ever doing what he had done. The Foxlings were far and away superior to all that had come before and after. Such perfection, such beauty.


    He picked up the small chest and clutched it to his body as the entire room shook around him.


    His body would crumble, but the chest would not, forged from meteorite infused oak it would last, as would the precious contents contained within.


    Again he wondered what had become of Desra. He had never failed him before, and yet here at the end he had not appeared.


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


    He only hoped it would be his own people who came looking for it and not those who had destroyed them. If they were to obtain it then there was not telling what manner of depravity would ensue. Though then again. The trials without the binds of morality and ethics had been the most productive and progressive stage in the experimentations. If I had not been reprimanded, well no, there is little use thinking of that now.


    A particularly violent shudder caused him to crash and fall down onto his knees. From the window came the fluttering sound of wings.


    Maegist Alacrand looked up slowly. There in the window stood one of them. No half breed this, one look was enough to see it. This was a Prince.


    The red eyes blazed as they looked on him, the red so deep it burned. There was no anger in them, only the coldness so natural to their kind. The pale face bore no wrinkle but one knew instinctively that it held years in its air. It was beautiful, but in an overwhelming way, the same beauty one found in nature¡¯s unbridled strength, in the midst of a storm or tsunami. It was beautiful to behold in a way, but only from afar.


    Alacrand tightened his grip on the chest. His mind whirred as he thought of what to do. As the Vampir flowed across the room he knew there was nothing he could do to hurt it. Few humans ever did. Those that had almost certainly killed soon after. What hope then had he. No, he could not fight.


    Nor did he have to. It was not for him the Prince came. Alacrand laughed as he reached into his robe. It was more fitting this way in any case, to die by his own hand. He¡¯d had his moment.


    As the Vampir reached out to grab him Alacrand leapt, flinging the chest from his grip and out the window he flung down the small cylinder he¡¯d taken from his pocket. In an instant fire erupted all around him. Another of his more practical creations, it would not damage the Prince, his firestar was designed quite specifically. A weapon to be used against the hordes of thralls, it could not harm those who controlled those same hordes.


    Still, it did enough to momentarily halt the Conqueror. Its scream then was not of pain but annoyance. The sound was all consuming but filled Alacrand¡¯s ears with an acute pleasure even as the flames engulfed and devoured him.


    The flames and heat spread stingingly over his body, blinded he fell in a fiery heap. Yet he smiled even in the throes of pain. His final act. He felt it a fitting one.


    ***************************************************************************************************************************************************


    Far down below Desra watched closely as the tower burned and shattered. The last remaining tower of the last remaining human stronghold. The symbolism then was rather poignant.


    Desra was pleased not to be inside it. He had been supposed to be there to meet his Creator. He was supposed to guide him and his precious treasure to safety. He¡¯d not been so foolish as his Master however. He had fled long ago, hovering on the edge. Waiting. He¡¯d watched the Prince soar up to the Creation room, that had seemed the end of it. Once it was in their hands it would not be taken back.


    But the Creator was resourceful.


    The chest had been lost amidst the plumes of fire and smoke, no human eye could have followed it as it made its rapid descent. Desra¡¯s eyes were not human however. He did not lose sight of it. And when it landed he was there to retrieve it. Above him somewhere he heard the roars of the Vampir Prince.


    Fortunately the Gods were on the side of Desra, as he hoisted the chest onto his back the tower finally gave in, its formidable foundations rocked too many times by the flames and projectiles of the attackers. As it cracked and thundered Desra ran. Even with the chest upon his back he passed crowds of people all desperately fleeing into the forest and the perceived safety it offered. Few if any would survive.


    He would though, and with it the chest. The formulae to create more of his kind. It gave speed to his steps as he ran. Fresh and louder screams rang out as the tower crashed to the ground, in the ensuing storm of stone, debris and ash, most were slammed onto their faces.


    Desra was already away, already rushing through the trees and the forest cover.


    Humanity was lost, broken and defeated. The World he had known and grew up in lost forever. Desra smiled. He was free.

 Beginnings

    148 years Later


    A murder of crows dominated the skyline. Their calls echoed inside Aodh¡¯s head. Little joy could be found in such a sight or sound. Precious little.


    For such an activity he supposed the scene was an apt one. Stepping back he whipped his blade around to slice once again across his foe¡¯s stomach. The Beastling growled out in fury. It had been cut a dozen times already but was only now starting to slow down. Aodh could have moved in to try and finish it quickly, but that was a risky option against such brute strength. Instead he kept his foe at range, utilising the length of his two sided blade to ensure he remained out of touch of the deadly tusks. Though it carried a crude looking axe it hardly took the time to use the weapon, it seemed more an inconvenience to it than anything else. Still when it did swing, it was with more than enough force to cut a man in half, even tired and bleeding it was no simple thing to kill such a beast. And it was a beast.


    A base gene, what human attributes it must of once had were now almost entirely forgotten. An old one by the looks of him, it had clearly been alone for quite some time, isolated from not only humans but also its own kind it was little wonder it had devolved into the primal animal before him. Though something remained, some inkling of its past military history. Aodh was surprised more than once by a well practised lunge or thrust, relics from its former life. Rusty and rigid they were recognisable movements nonetheless.


    The beastling was growing desperate, it understood that it was losing, the loss of blood and myriad of wounds building even on its considerable stamina. It flung the axe at Aodh, a wild throw that went flying over well over his head to implant itself in a nearby tree. Weaponless it took to all fours before charging with all its might directly at him. Aodh was waiting, and easily able to leap aside before jabbing his sword¡¯s point deep into the large neck as it sped passed. Releasing the blade from his grip it remained embedded in the hippoling¡¯s neck as its charge faltered.


    Even still it did not fall. Lurching and spluttering out blood it still tried to right itself, tried to turn and charge once more. Aodh waited.


    The Beastling managed one final step before it collapsed on the ground in an exhausted and bloodied heap.


    Aodh stood by as the last breaths rasped and wheezed themselves out of the Beast¡¯s chest, each one a last painful struggle to cling onto life.


    He gave it some few more moments before he made his way over to his victim.


    With a deep breath of his own he heaved his blade out of the burly neck. It was no easy task, not after what he¡¯d just done in any case.


    He was conflicted. As he generally was after killing a Beastling. They were after all his cousins in a way, created from the same source, the same genius mind. Or the same insane one, depending on who was asked.


    The feeling of discord was a familiar one. Just this year alone he¡¯d already been given the unenviable task of killing four similar beasts to the one lying before him. Since the conclusion of the War there was little use for those humans once thought of as being their saviours. Driven out into the wilds most were left to defend for themselves unless they proved docile and serventile enough to keep as slaves.


    This night¡¯s particular task had involved a Hippoling. Huge, powerful and quick to anger it had been one of the more animalistic of its kind. The local Dwaelven Eldar compelled to seek help after the sixth victim had met their end on the Beast¡¯s tusks.


    The Hippoling had been isolated from the others of its gene, whatever hope it had of surviving with them there was little chance all alone. It had already lost the power of speech by the time it had settled in the swamps on the outskirts of Chairn, during their fight it had only seemed capable of crying out one single word.


    ¡®Hind.¡¯ Most likely its name. Aodh ambled over to a small patch of dry land by the swamps edge. There he sat down and began to wipe his blade.


    The gold he would now receive from the Dwaelven Council would be enough for him to return to the Dynasty Manor for a time.


    He¡¯d delayed it long enough. Five years without returning, and little in the way of contact. Which made Desra¡¯s summoning all the more strange.


    His Great Grandfather had started their dynasty and profession, and all of his progeny followed in his illustrious steps. Aodh was no exception, isolated and away from the others he had nonetheless continued to pursue and complete contracts on behalf of the Dynasty. Killing, assassinating and guarding whoever offered the greatest sums. He just happened to do it a little further away from the others. For the past several months however he had been making his way closer to his old home. He was as close to it now as he had been in years.


    Sighing he wiped a hand across his face, glancing up he reckoned it was almost sundown. It would be best to get back inside the town walls before it did. Even for him the outer lands were no safe place at night. He would not be able to rest easily exposed in the open.


    Getting back up to his feet he wiped himself down and quickly headed over to the slain Beastling. With one practised swipe he sliced open its mouth to rip out one of its huge tusks. It would have to suffice as proof enough of his success. To carry the head would have been too great a challenge. Wrapping it in a layer of cloth he stretched and set his blade back onto his back.


    On foot the town walls were several hours away for a healthy human male. It was fortunate then that Aodh could call on his own beast. Through it he would be there almost in two. He set off, quickly transferring his body into his fox form.


    Unlike the other Beastlings, stuck solely between the two, Foxlings could change from human to beast form at will. And in between if it so suited them.


    Aodh¡¯s form was a coat of black interspersed with red, different to that of his Brother and sisters, most of which were either completely red or red interlaced with snow white. A fact he had long ago learned to embrace.


    He raced through the swamps and trees, it was not long before he came in sight of what passed as the main highway for the Eastern Outer Lands. Staying close to it he made his way ever closer to the Dwaelven town walls.


    He was not more than a half an hour away when the first of the human voices came to him.


    He pulled up abruptly at their sound, though there was little chance they could have heard him coming. They were huddled up either side of the road, hidden from view lying flat against the embankment. Clearly they were waiting on something. Aodh decided to see just what that something was.


    He crept up until he was almost directly behind the men gathered on the left side of the road. There were six on this side, and six on the other. All male and all armed, if poorly.


    Raiders then, Aodh guessed. He was surprised to find them so close to the town and main highway. These men were bolder than most, bolder or more desperate. There were two men a little ahead of the others, one young, one old. They were the only ones that kept a watch on the road, and the only ones speaking. The rest remained almost motionless against the embankments. No first time raiders these, Aodh knew there were many such groups in the outer lands. Some grew quite successful in their raids, so much so that he and his fellow Foxlings would be called in. He wondered if this was one such group. He listened in as the two ahead of the others whispered amongst themselves.


    ¡°You sure?¡± The younger of the two men asked his comrade, ¡°It¡¯s almost dark. I thought you said they¡¯d be here well before that.¡±


    ¡°No I didn¡¯t. I never said that. I said they¡¯d be here around dark. As I¡¯m sure they will be.¡±


    ¡°Around dark? Well that hardly makes sense, aren¡¯t we always around dark, relatively speaking.¡±


    ¡°Relatively speaking? Well I am not relatively speaking, I am speaking normatively. So you know exactly what I mean by around dark, now shut your mouth and keep your head down. I¡¯m the lookout, not you.¡±


    ¡°Normatively? That¡¯s not a word. Is it?¡±


    ¡°I just said it didn¡¯t I?¡±


    If you encounter this tale on Amazon, note that it''s taken without the author''s consent. Report it.¡°That doesn¡¯t make it a word though does it.¡±


    ¡°Oh? And what is a word then?¡±


    The young man turned to look at the older. He frowned


    ¡°It¡¯s¡­.it¡¯s a single distinct meaningful element of speech¡­or writing.¡±


    ¡°Well normatively is a word then.¡±


    ¡°We¡¯ll see when we¡¯re back home.¡±


    ¡°Yes, we bloody well will. Now put your head down, it¡¯s my watch, not yours.¡±


    ¡°Four eyes are better than two.¡±


    The older of the two grunted, ¡°Not when yours are wonky.¡±


    The young man let out an audible gasp, the sound provoking a series of angry hisses to keep quiet from both his side and the other side of the road.


    ¡°I am not wonky eyed. It¡¯s called peripheral vision, you donkey. It¡¯s a rare trait given to only a chosen few.¡±


    ¡°Ah yes, the rare trait of being able to see everywhere but in front of you. That is a fine trait. I certainly wish I had such a rare trait.¡±


    ¡°I can see in front of myself just fine you old fool.¡±


    ¡°Sure you can, so long as you turn your head sideways.¡±


    ¡°I do not need to t-¡±


    ¡°Shhhh.¡± The old man raised a hand to the younger¡¯s mouth before motioning to those behind. Aodh presumed there were similar lookouts on the other side doing the same thing.


    He¡¯d heard the approaching carriages well before the men had, already he could make out a faint glow of torchlight growing in the distance. He padded back a few more paces. He was rather eager to see how this would play out. He¡¯d already decided not to intervene, come what may. He guessed the carriages were Dwaelven ones, likely returning to the town from trading.


    Though he was fulfilling a contract for them he had no alliance or love for the Dwaelven kind.


    As the carriages drew ever closer the men readied themselves, they pressed their faces and chests close to the embankment. Aodh saw two of the six on his side draw out items from their pockets.


    The baggage train was close enough for Aodh to make it out properly now. In front and behind the carriages three riders escorted them, with two more riding along on either side.


    The attack was well timed.


    The front riders were almost in line with the middle of the six men when it began. Even Aodh could not see exactly what had been rolled out onto the middle of the road. He did not have to wait long to find out however.


    One of the riders did manage to sound an alarm as he spotted the device igniting before him, but that was all he managed.


    The explosives roared out into the otherwise peaceful night.


    Firestars. Though in truth they were rather crude imitations of the once infamous explosive devices created by the Maegist Alacrand. The noise was greater than the explosion they created, but that did not matter all that much. The first three riders were sent flying from their mounts. The horses racing on behind reared up in terror and the carriage they led was thrown from its course and went screeching and skidding over onto its side.


    Almost simultaneously the twelve humans leapt into action. Each carried a spear that was promptly fired into the now completely chaotic mass of carriage, riders and horses.


    By the time those guarding the carriage were able to mount any kind of defence it was already over for them.


    Like Aodh they must not have suspected any attack so close to the town walls, they¡¯d already passed through the most dangerous passes of the Outer lands, no doubt then they thought themselves safe. Their pace had been steady rather than fast, and had made the men¡¯s task that bit easier because of it.


    By now the second carriage had been forced to a halt, the men targeted it immediately after releasing their volley of spears. Cutting loose the horses they had clearly mastered the art of the raid.


    The last four of the Dwaelven gathered around each other as the men pressed in. Of the four, there were three elves and a single dwarf; he''d been the one driving the remaining carriage. Two of the elves seemed hurt, and all were bloodied.


    ¡°Right then.¡± One of the humans, the biggest of them, called out. The decision a very typical one for their kind. Those who were biggest tended to be put in charge in most all things they did.


    ¡°As you can quite clearly see, we have properly fucked you up. Four against twelve. Not good odds for ye my friends. However, we are no savages us, despite what you might think. So, you drop your weapons and we will take you with us. Provided your families or Lords can come up with a suitable ransom, well, then no more of you will need to die. It is a very agreeable proposition I am sure you will agree?¡±


    ¡°Ransom?¡± The Dwarf snorted. ¡°How would one ransom with an ape?¡±


    ¡°We are not Apes, though we do have hair at least.¡± Another of the humans replied.


    ¡°I had hair,¡± The dwarf seemed annoyed by that. He had been wearing a hat when in the carriage but it had fallen off in the chaos. ¡°And I do not need hair to take down a few of you bastards with me.¡±


    ¡°Shush it Baldy,¡± the big man continued, ¡°we know that it is the elves who are really in charge. So, with the size of those ears you must have heard what I said. What will it be then? A massacre? Or will you drop them nice swords of yours?¡±


    The elves shared a glance, quickly, unperceivable to the humans. Aodh saw it though. He was glad when he did.


    One of the elves lowered his sword and took a step forward, he appeared to be limping badly. He raised a hand.


    ¡°We will come with you. But only on one condition.¡±


    ¡°Which is?¡± The big man raised his brow.


    ¡°You let our dwarf friend go.¡±


    ¡°WHAT?¡± The dwarf¡¯s voice rose above the humans with ease. ¡°No, to hells with that. One of you go, I¡¯ll not leave the carriage. I was assigned as its driver and its driver I shall stay. Come what may.¡±


    The elf that had stepped forward sighed and made an animated shrug towards the humans.


    ¡°A moment please.¡±


    ¡°Just a moment then.¡± The big human answered. ¡°He raised his sword and took a step closer himself.


    ¡°Theov, please listen.¡± The elf began, appealing to his ally. ¡°We don¡¯t all have to die here and-¡±


    Before Theov could utter his rebuttal, and he looked as if he would burst if he didn¡¯t, the elf had swung around and fired his own blade into the chest of the big human. Hurt and limping he was still fast. As the other men looked on stunned, the elf rushed forward to grab his blade out and launched the attack. His fellow elves, bloodied as they were, charged in after him. Theov, to his credit, recovered quickly. He went straight for the man who¡¯d commented on his lack of hair.


    Aodh watched on with interest as the fighting erupted once more. The elves were faster than the humans, much lighter on their feet. But they were tired after their ride, and the men eager to confirm their success and eager to claim their prize.


    Theov proved vicious, he took down two more men besides the one that had offended him. Even when his axe was torn from his grip he did not stop, still fighting on with a dagger before he was taken in the back by a spear.


    At the end of it only two human males remained. It was a rather poor return after all they had done right to begin with. The two survivors did not seem to mind, both were already rummaging through the carriage wreckages, searching for what gold or valuables they could find.


    Aodh chose that moment to step out. He was standing in the middle of the road before either man took any notice of him.


    ¡°Oi, Jims. Look, it¡¯s a bloody fox.¡±


    Jims only looked up a moment before going back to his search.


    ¡°So? What difference does a bloody fox make to us?¡±


    ¡°He¡¯s a bit big for a normal fox ain¡¯t he.¡±


    That stopped Jims. He ceased his scrabbling and slowly turned around.


    Aodh saw the fear.


    ¡°No, it¡¯s not that much bigger.¡± Jims unsheathed the sword about his waist. The other man followed suit.


    Aodh changed back, he could have killed the last two men in his fox form, but it would have been difficult.


    He was well above a man¡¯s waist in height and weighed more than enough to knock any of them to the ground. Still, though much faster both men did carry weapons. Besides there would be too many questions asked if they bore his beast mark. No, better in all ways to dispatch them in his human form. It would not be difficult.


    ¡°Shit.¡± Jims muttered the word to himself more than anyone else. ¡°It¡¯s one of them.¡±


    Aodh charged, he didn¡¯t bother with his swords, his knives would be enough. He rushed straight at Jims, easily ducking under a heavy swing before coming up hard, dragging his blade up along the man¡¯s chest and face before swinging around and digging his second blade into his back. Using the momentum he¡¯d built up Aodh swung himself around to launch himself at the second man. He didn¡¯t even get to swing his own sword before the knife was plunged deep into his chest.


    Satisfied Aodh picked over the wreckages, there was mostly just food and drink within, it was not easy to feed a growing town in the outer lands. Hence Chairn had to bring in outside trade to help sustain its people. For the raiders the supplies from the two caravans would have been enough to keep them fed for months, such a haul would have been considered a very successful one for them. For Aodh it was mostly worthless, it was gold he was after. He found precious little of that. Taking what he could from the elves and dwarves, once he¡¯d gathered it all it was only worth a few nights at an inn. Obviously their payment awaited them back at Chairn. The whole affair had hardly been worth the stopping. Still, Aodh supposed he should be thankful, it had been mildly entertaining at least.


    Collecting himself he set out once again, reverting back to his fox form he bounded off to run alongside the road. Though dark it was best he was not seen coming back into the town, particularly now given the problems that had occurred on the road leading into it. He preferred the soft grassy undergrowth of the forest beneath his feet in any case.

 Reunited

    He was back within sight of the town walls within the hour. Taking care not to be seen Aodh transformed back into his human configuration before emerging back onto the road and blending in with the last of those people returning to the safety of the settlement. He wrapped his cloak tighter about him, though it was not cold he preferred not to have his armour on show. It was far finer than any elf or dwarven soldier, and worth a large townhouse on its own. Pulling up his hood against a soft rain he ambled forward to the Gate guards.


    ¡°Name?¡±


    ¡°Aodh Rua.¡±


    The guard looked up from his clipboard.


    He coughed slightly, ¡°Ah yes Aodh. Aodh the Foxling.¡±


    Aodh raised his hood a little. ¡°The Foxling? What is your name?¡± He asked the man who was now looking at him open mouthed.


    ¡°My...name?¡±


    ¡°Yes. You have one don¡¯t you.¡±


    ¡°Ah yes, I do. It¡¯s Freand.¡±


    ¡°Freand. Are you Freand the human then.¡±


    The man frowned, scratching the back of his neck.


    ¡°No, no I suppose not. Although ... .no, no I wouldn¡¯t be.¡±


    ¡°Then I am not Aodh the Foxling. Aodh Rua.¡±


    ¡°Right yes, well then Aodh the¡­ah no¡­..Aodh Rua. The Lord is expecting you. I¡¯ll send some of the boys to escort you to him.¡±


    Aodh bobbed his head and waited for his escort to come down before following them towards the town¡¯s Inner Keep.


    The town was a relatively new one. For the elves and dwarves at least. Before the Land Wars it had been a human settlement, quite a large one. Now it served more as a final outpost for the Elves and Dwarves before one was deep into the outer lands. The last piece of civilization before the tribelands. It was beyond, in the mountainous wastes where most of what remained of humanity struggled to eke out whatever quality of life they could. Bar a wealthy few, the majority of their kind were now located either here deep in the far north where the snow fell thick, or deep in the south where the sand scorched. The two places nobody else wanted.


    The Inner Keep was the most impressive part of the town, the castle stood tall above everything else and dominated the skyline.


    Evidently it was built with defence in mind, and quite clearly of human design, the stout walls and moat around it did not look pretty. But that hardly mattered so far north. High society types were not likely to be visiting the town anytime soon.


    Aodh was led inside the castle and directly to the old throne room. Once the sole home of a human King, now it was residence to a Council of six. Three elves and three dwarves, as was the norm for all of their settlements since their Grand Alliance.


    There were only two of them awaiting him now however, one elf and one dwarf. Aodh strode up quickly to stand before them, leaving his escort behind and not bothering with any announcements. The herald seemed rather disappointed by the fact as Aodh brushed roughly past him.


    ¡°You are back.¡± The dwarf Trevon stated peering down at him. ¡°Well that seems a good sign. You were successful then I take it?¡±


    Aodh took out the hippo tusk and waved it in front of him.


    ¡°I was.¡±


    The elf, named Arisan squinted at the tusk, ¡°No head? I thought it was common for your kind to bring back the head of your fallen cousins?¡±


    Aodh bristled at the mention of your kind, a term always spoken with obvious distaste, just as it was now.


    ¡°How do you propose I bring back a head weighing almost half a ton? The body is to the south western corner of the swamp if you desire to see it. Though I would think the tusk would be enough. Do you know many who have ripped one from a Hippoling that was still alive? I don''t.¡±


    The dwarf snorted in laughter, even more so when Arisan glanced at him angrily.


    ¡°Ahh he¡¯s got you there Arisan. And as for checking out the body I doubt we¡¯ll be able to do anything of the kind. The humans are not a picky lot, might be they use the body for food. They¡¯ll use it for something anyhow. They don¡¯t let much go to waste.¡±


    ¡°We agreed on a hundred pieces.¡± Aodh declared. ¡°In full.¡±


    ¡°That we did. And that we have.¡± Trevon pulled out a pouch of gold from his coat. He tossed it down to him.


    Aodh snatched it. He felt its weight. It seemed right. Dwarves were many things, but dishonest was generally not one of them.


    Bowing lightly, if a little sarcastically, he would have made his exit then but a clamour by the door stopped him. He was forced to step aside as a messenger rushed into the room and headed straight to where the throne had once been and to the ear of Arisan. Two more guards came rushing in behind him.


    Aodh tried to make his exit amidst the noise.


    ¡°AH FOXLING, a moment if you please. There is something we would ask you.¡±


    Aodh forced a smile and turned slowly. He took a few steps back to where the elf and dwarf Lords sat.


    ¡°A moment then.¡±


    ¡°We have just received word from the highway. Apparently a baggage train of ours was attacked. No survivors.¡±


    Aodh continued to stare at Arisan, he said nothing.


    ¡°You would have passed back by the highway would you not?¡± Trevon finally interjected. ¡°You did not see anything amiss as you made your way to the town?¡±


    Aodh shrugged, ¡°I saw nothing of interest. I had my task. One I completed. That is all.¡±


    ¡°You are sure? There were no survivors, the food lay untouched. Only some trinkets and gold was all that was stolen from us. Had the human raiders been successful they would have taken much more.¡±


    ¡°You wish to imply something?¡± Aodh did not take his eyes off Arisan.


    ¡°Careful Foxling. Have a care that your words do not veer any closer to insolence. I merely enquire once more, are you entirely sure you saw nothing? Were we to check your person we would find no trace of your presence at the site?¡±


    ¡°None of you will be checking my person. You have no cause to do so. I have told you. I did not see anything of what occurred.¡±


    ¡°And if we insist?¡± Trevon leaned back in his Council chair, ¡°What then? What if we were to arrest you.¡±


    ¡°You might try, though I am not sure you could.¡± He glanced around idly. There were eight others in the room with them, including the herald who was unarmed. He was confident he could at least escape any attempt to apprehend him.


    ¡°Besides, what would my Family think?¡±


    The Elf and dwarf shared a look, whatever hesitancy they had to make a move against him alone, he knew they would dare not do anything to offend the Foxling dynasty. Few risked the wrath of Desra¡¯s kin.


    The mention of his family seemed enough to allay their suspicions, Aodh knew he was safe.


    For once he was glad of his family connections. Should anything happen to him there would be over a 100 of his Foxling brothers and sisters for the elves and dwarves to deal with. The Family Manor was not so far, five day¡¯s ride at most. Some reinforcements would likely be sent out to aid Chairn against any attack. But they would be slow arriving, and besides a Foxling¡¯s first profession was assassination. No matter how well guarded, who they wanted to, they killed. Humans, elves, dwarves, Beastlings, even Vampirii had been killed at their hands. A few simple Border Town guards would hold precious little hope of survival then.


    ¡°If that is all¡­¡± Aodh did not make even a cursory bow this time before turning away. No one stopped him as he left.


    He had a room booked at an Inn not far from the Castle, heading directly there he only stopped a moment to order food and drink from the Innkeeper''s wife before making his way upstairs. Though he did not want to, he knew it was best to leave the city while he still could. He did not believe the Dwaelves would move against him now, but neither was he certain. It was best to avoid risks at such moments. That he had learned from twenty two hard years on the roads.


    As soon as he¡¯d finished his meal and drink he gathered what few things he had and made his way out through the window. It would be better that no one see him leaving the Inn or town.


    The moon was high and bright, but Aodh was glad of the cloudy cover which shielded most of its light. It made getting up and onto the walls all the more easier for him.


    There were guards posted all along it, but none were overly attentive, certainly not to what was happening behind them. Aodh could hardly blame them, whatever human raiders lived anywhere close would never attempt an actual attack on the town itself. And the Dwaelves had brokered an alliance with the Vampirii long ago. No wonder its guards were sleepy then.


    Atop the wall there was a 20ft drop down to the ground, but such a jump was not difficult for him. Leaping down he rushed to find cover in the shadows of the trees nearby. There amidst the undergrowth and leafy blanket he settled down. Close enough to the town to prevent any attackers, but far enough outside its walls so as to not to be easily captured if the Council members had a change of mind.


    There under the shrouded light of the moon he slept. When the trees and the birds that called them home awoke him the next morning he was glad to find himself still alone bar their songs.


    Dusting himself down he yawned and stretched. He had a five day journey ahead of him, he would be glad for it to be finished. He felt now was as good a time as any. He¡¯d avoided it long enough.


    It was time to go home.


    The journey home proved thankfully uneventful. Still Aodh was glad when the three towers of the Family manor rose up before him, almost as if from out of the forest itself. Once the private home of Maegist Alacrand now it was home to the Foxling Dynasty. It was a manor in name, but almost a fortress in practicality. Surrounded by thick walls on all sides it was safely hidden within the depths of Fahrir forest. None knew of its location, the former owner¡¯s focus on secrecy had been passed on to its current owner, Desra. Huge and ominous it was home to all Foxlings, and when not out on contracts it was here most stayed. Along with those too old or too young, or otherwise injured.


    Aodh had grown up within its walls, yet he struggled to call it home. Were it that then he would not have needed to brace himself so as he entered underneath its Gatehouse.


    He had been sighted well before, the gates already lay open, and he saw two of his Brothers waiting for him. Of the 192 of his own Brothers and sisters he was happy to see it was Pandred and Janear that awaited him. He had sent word ahead that he would be arriving home soon, though he wasn¡¯t sure they would have received it in time. They were likely the only two who would not be disappointed to see him arrive back safe, well and wealthy. Both were the only two he had been in contact with since leaving the Manor years, aside from Desra naturally. They had all three been born from the same blood Mother and Father. Though it wasn¡¯t supposed to matter, it did to Aodh. His Father had risked his life to reveal the fact, and he would not forget it.


    ¡°You aren¡¯t dead?¡± Pandred asked as they embraced.


    ¡°I don¡¯t believe so.¡± Aodh answered, ¡°And neither it seems, are you.¡±


    ¡°Well that¡¯s to be expected,¡± Janear probed Aodh¡¯s stomach and pursed his lips, ¡°You are fit at least.¡±


    ¡°You¡¯ve aged fierce. How old are you now? 70? 80?¡±


    ¡°Hmmm Funny. I am the same age as you Brother, and you should not talk. Everytime your mouth moves, so do the lake of wrinkles on your head.¡±


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    Pandred winked, ¡°One for every kill.¡±


    ¡°You must be tired?¡± Janear asked.


    ¡°I am fine Brother. Sleep can wait, I want to know what you two have been up to.¡±


    ¡°Agreed,¡± Janear nodded, ¡°Come, we¡¯ll head to the halls,  I imagine you are hungry, and we definitely need a drink after what¡­.five years?¡±


    ¡°A little over, and that is exactly what we need.¡±


    It was late in the manor, Aodh was happy of the fact for there was little activity within. A few servants wandered about, the humans kept their gaze down and only bowed in polite subservience to them as they passed.


    What few Brothers and sisters they did pass grunted or nodded in welcome, that was as far as they were willing to go. In the world of Foxlings competition was as relevant to everyday life as eating. It was hard then for any to forge strong connections in such an environment. Aodh felt fortunate to have two he could rely on.


    ¡°So,¡± Pandred began once they were seated, he and Janear had only cups for the Uisce Beatha with them, Aodh alone ate.


    ¡°You have been about, what can you tell us about the great wide world Brother. About the wild outer lands.¡±


    Aodh shrugged, ¡°That it is not always so great. I started out in the Northern Lands, by the Vampirii border. Humans reside there in the space left between the two territories, by the mountain peaks of Serha. And where there are humans¡­.¡±


    ¡°There are contracts,¡± Janear finished as he gulped down a cup.


    ¡°Exactly. There I was sent out to deal with some troublesome barons, nothing specially difficult. A few raider clans that had become a little too skilled in caravan jumping. However,¡± Aodh paused and drank, ¡°it was there I had my first dealings with our cousins. There was a small clan, maybe 50 strong of Bearlings.¡±


    ¡°They were refined genes?¡± Pandred asked.


    ¡°Yes, they had a society, primitive but evident. And almost all were capable of speech, bar the few base among them. Their leader was even one of the advanced. I spoke with him. A great deal in fact.¡±


    ¡°So they are not just rumours.¡± Janear shook his head, ¡°I thought the humans hunted all the clans down after the Wars. Seeing as they had little else to be doing.¡±


    ¡°Not all apparently, especially in the outer lands. They were not the only clan I came across either, there were more than one, and of more than one Beastling. I saw both Crocling and Wolfling clans, and heard of many more. They are out there, believe me. We are not the only Beastlings seeking a place in this World, not by a long way. Though none could say to be doing half so well as we are,¡± Aodh waved his hands about him.


    ¡°Speaking of us, what have you been up to all these years?¡±


    ¡°Well, I am with the Eastern Front Company now, ¡°Pandred replied, ¡°We have two full barracks established in both Fridan and Shuinthorne. We¡¯ve been conducting contracts for the Dwaelven Councils and even some of the wealthier human Merchant Leaders up there. Though I¡¯d rather work for the elves and dwarves than for any humans. Gold is gold though. And a contract is a contract. I¡¯m here for the winter before heading back in Spring, same as most of the rest of the garrison.¡±


    ¡°You like it there?¡±


    ¡°The elves are nice, their women pretty. And it is good to be surrounded by such beauty. Fridan has been one of their cities since the beginning, now it is a colossus of design and industry. Almost on a par with Vies Diem. It is worth seeing Brother, you shall have to visit.¡±


    ¡°If I am not assigned there.¡±


    Pandred laughed, ¡°There would be worse places I assure you.¡±


    ¡°And you Janear?¡±


    ¡°I just got moved up to the Elects.¡±


    Aodh stopped with his cup halfway to his lips, ¡°The Elects? Already?¡±


    Janear shrugged, ¡°As of now I am only accompanying them on contracts, I have only taken part in some minor dealings thus far. Though I plan on seeing real action soon enough.¡±


    Aodh raised his brows and dropped his mouth, though youngest, of their litter Janear had always been the most naturally gifted of them, his abrupt rise came as little shock then, even given his age. The Elects were the best of the Foxling operators, they took on those contracts deemed of great importance to the Foxling dynasty, and more besides. They were the only unit which Desra would personally send out on his own undertakings.


    ¡°You¡¯ve both been busy then. Though I know your skill better than most. It is no surprise.¡± Aodh raised his cup in toast.


    ¡°And what is the latest news of the world anyhow? Sleeping in taverns and ditches in the outer lands means a great deal of that which happens goes by without me ever learning about it.¡±


    ¡°A lot can happen in five years Brother, you must be more specific, what is it you want to know?¡±


    Pandred had brought his pipe out and didn¡¯t look up as he spoke, too preoccupied getting the leaves ready. He¡¯d always been fond of its taste, though Aodh had taken some time to grow used to it, he too had started to enjoy its taste in recent years, its taste and its calming effect. It was something he rarely had the opportunity to indulge in upon the road, where there was not much place for idle relaxation. Now back at the manor however, he supposed it was rather timely to do so.


    ¡°Very well then, the Treaty, both sides keep to it? The fighting has ceased?¡±


    Janear yawned, ¡°More or less, the elves and dwarves may not have many cities, but those they do have are nigh on impenetrable, even for the Vampirii. Each city has survived a thousand sieges and seen a thousand more armies break themselves upon its walls. The Vampirii could defeat them I¡¯m sure, given time. But it would cost them a great deal, and far more thralls than I imagine they are willing to give up. Besides they are always too busy competing amongst themselves to bother with the few Dwaelven strongholds.¡±


    ¡°Exactly,¡± Pandred waved his pipe about him as he got it lit, ¡°the risk reward is too low for the nightfolk. That and it''s good for trade to have others to do so with. They can hardly do it with the Dragonkind now can they?¡±


    ¡°The Dragonkind? They¡¯re here?¡±


    Pandred pressed his hands against his eyelids, ¡°Good God Brother, you really were in the outer lands. You know nothing of the Ignis Fields?¡±


    Aodh shook his head but did take the pipe offered to him.


    Pandred glanced at Janear and shook his head. ¡°I thought that¡¯d be big news even out there. Yes, they¡¯re here. And in fact have been for about five years. Though they only made their presence known before Summer start. They have an outpost, one they created in secret way up high on the cliffs of Mohier. So well hidden there is not even a single path leading to its Inner keep. What burned men they have up there with them have to be brought up by dragonback. Though in truth, it is more a landing pad than an outpost for them, a place of refuge after the treacherous crossing. Safe even from the Vampirii lookouts. Its been hidden for good reason though, it¡¯s small.¡±


    ¡°From what we¡¯ve heard barely room enough for more than three of their kind to be gathered there at once. In their true form at least.¡±


    ¡°Yet they chose to reveal themselves? Why?¡± Aodh coughed as the smoke hit him, it had been a long time since he¡¯d had the redstone, he would have to be mindful of that fact.


    ¡°Pandred already said it,¡± Janear poured them out another cup each. ¡°It¡¯s no true outpost, and certainly not enough for them to gain any place of prominence over here. So, at the start of Summer they made a move to find that place of prominence. That place being Orbran.¡±


    Aodh squinted and puffed his cheeks, he handed the pipe over to Janear. ¡°Orbran? The old ruins?¡±


    ¡°The same. The Vampirii maintained a small garrison there.¡± Janear took a puff, though he didn¡¯t cough as he inhaled Aodh couldn¡¯t help but notice. ¡°Mostly made up of half breeds and distant kin to the Princes. Nothing significant. When the Dragonkin launched an attack they easily took over what few buildings still stood. A few hundred of their burned men were then sent in to fortify the place. You have heard what one Dragon can do, well they had five of them.¡±


    Janear took another large inhale before passing it back to Pandred. Janear gestured towards Pandred as he handed over the pipe, ¡°He was there, Desra sent out about ten of us just to go and meet with the Dragons. You know, as a sign of respect or what not. A wise move when it comes to Dragons.¡±


    ¡°You met one of them?¡± Aodh was stunned by the fact.


    Pandred took a puff himself before answering.


    ¡°Aye, I met one, more than one in fact. Three of the leaders granted us an audience, seemed to find us all rather intriguing. There were nine of us altogether. We were the three closest units to Orbran when the attack happened. Desra wanted us to go there before the Vampirii had time to warn him against such an action. He intended to keep good with both.¡±


    ¡°And? What were they like?¡±


    Pandred scratched his jaw and whistled, ¡°Pretty feckin terrifying now to be brutally honest. Never met a Vampirii Prince but I imagine something the same. They were in their diplomatic forms when they met with us, but I seen one of the others patrolling the skies while we were there. Must have been almost 500 ft in length all told. Monstrous things.¡±


    ¡°Diplomatic form? So it¡¯s true then? What they say.¡±


    ¡°Yes, seems so. Though I only saw the two forms I don¡¯t doubt they can change into most any one they like. There was a¡­¡± Pandred swirled the pipe around him, causing the smoke to do the same, ¡°An aura about them, magical I mean. Almost oppressive, I couldn''t wait to get out of there and I wasn¡¯t even the one speaking to them.¡±


    ¡°And they aren¡¯t there now?¡± Aodh took back the pipe. He waited to ask his question before taking another gust.


    ¡°No. Not now. Those we met were the ones previously housed at Mohier. With such little room they were sent out to attack to give others from across the sea space to recuperate on the cliffs. Those who¡¯d managed the crossing were then to move on to Orbran to help with its rebuilding and defence. Evidently they intended for it to be a launchpad for something big. A centre of operation, somewhere they could establish themselves.¡±


    ¡°They told you that?¡±


    Pancred and Janear both laughed at that, ¡°No,¡± Pandred shook his head, ¡°They told us nothing, we were just curiosities to them, I don¡¯t think they cared anything for what we said.¡±


    ¡°Desra had propositions for them?¡±


    ¡°Desra has propositions for everyone,¡± Janear spoke the words casually but immediately sat up on saying them and glanced around him. Away to the left an older Foxling nursed his own cup.


    Pandred sniffled and leaned over his drink, ¡°Careful Brother.¡±


    ¡°Anyhow none of it matters, Orbran is a ruin again, worse than before in fact. The Vampirii razed it to the ground.¡±


    Aodh sat back, ¡°How did they manage that?¡±


    Janear whistled and Pandred motioned with his hands to imply something big.


    ¡°The Vampirii were not messing about. The garrison might have been caught napping at Orbran but the Princes weren¡¯t. Soon as they heard of the Dragon attack they marched. All their rivalries and infighting put aside they attacked Orbran with an army 8,000 strong, 2,000 half bloods and 6,000 thralls. Along with every Vampirii Prince of fighting age.¡±


    ¡°Every one?¡±


    ¡°Every single one.¡± Pandred continued, ¡°A force that strong has not been seen since the Land Wars. I don¡¯t think the Dragons were expecting such a rapid and brutal response. Not so promptly anyhow. The first of their reinforcements had only barely arrived before they were besieged. They managed to hold out a day before they retreated. Only two dragons were said to have made their way back to the safety of Mohier, while every last one of their Burned men were killed. Like I said Brother, the Vampirii were not messing about.¡±


    ¡°Apparently more Dragonkin were supposed to arrive, but the journey over the Endless Seas is no easy one, even for them. It might have been they were simply delayed, or maybe they did not make it at all.¡± Janear finished the last of his cup, ¡°That no one seems to know.¡±


    ¡°Actually,¡± Pandred beat a fist against his chest a few times after a particularly large inhale, ¡°All of this is likely another reason why the Vampirii won¡¯t be moving against the Dwaelven anytime soon. They have far bigger threats to worry about.¡±


    ¡°Far bigger,¡± Janear agreed.


    Aodh leaned back in his seat and placed his hands behind his head, ¡°I knew a lot would have happened, but never so much as this. It is interesting.¡±


    Janear raised a brow, ¡°Interesting enough to stay awhile? You know you are the only Foxling that is out there alone, Aodh. Even you must admit it¡¯s a little strange.¡±


    ¡°Strange is bad?¡±


    ¡°Bad no, but it makes you stand out.¡± Janear looked to Pandred, but he only stared ahead, clearly ignoring the look, ¡°Many of them are quite aggrieved at the fact you are permitted to work and travel alone. The despise that Desra had given you lead to act outside our established methods. Some of the others say that you do not have the best interests of the Dynasty in your mind. That you are too independent. That your ego makes you think yourself above the rest of us, above even Desra. You not being back here for years doesn¡¯t exactly help that. Especially after everything with Father.¡±


    A silence fell over them.


    Aodh sat up straight, ¡°And you? What do you believe about me?¡±


    ¡°That you are nothing of the sort.¡± Pandred stated confidently, ¡°But it is not us that you should worry about. It¡¯s others. Others more powerful and influential that think of you that way.¡±


    Aodh shrugged, ¡°I care little for them. Desra¡¯s underlyings mean nothing to me. If I have your trust then let the rest think as they will.¡±


    ¡°And Desra himself?¡± Janear asked.


    Aodh closed his eyes and sighed, ¡°Yes, well him I suppose I will have to worry about.¡±


    A fresh silence settled around the table.


    Aodh was the one to break it as he pushed himself from it.


    ¡°But that worrying will wait until tomorrow. Tonight I feel like more wine.¡±


    Aodh got to his feet before spinning around dramatically, ¡°What say ye? Mine blood and kin, will you partake in a few bottles with me?¡±


    Pandred gave an elaborate salute and Janear raised his hands in prayer.


    ¡°We shall Brother,¡± Pandred declared.


    ¡°With both pleasure and spirit,¡± Janear added, placing a hand on his chest.


    Aodh smiled as he went to get another bottle. He was glad to be home. For the moment at least. Tomorrow would likely change that. But it did not seem to matter much for the moment. All that mattered now was another bottle. Maybe even two.

 Leisure

    ¡°But why though?¡± Janear jabbed a finger at Aodh. ¡°Why don¡¯t you want to work with anyone else? You know you will eventually. You can hardly go world¡­¡± Janear waved a hand about, ¡°world exploring or whatever forever. You''re a Foxling behind it all.¡±


    Aodh rolled his eyes at his brother¡¯s queries, shaking his head he jabbed a finger back at Janear.


    ¡°And when did I say I was going world exploring forever. I never said forever.¡±


    Aodh kept his eyes on his brother as he reached for his cup, frustratingly he could not feel it so he had to turn away for a moment to locate it. What was I saying again?


    ¡°Ah yes. I never did say I was going to go about forever. I just¡­.I just want to do something different. There¡¯s already a path decided for us. I know it¡¯s there, and I¡¯ll get back on it soon enough, believe me.¡±


    Pandred patted his arm, ¡°Then what are you doing in the Outer Lands? You could have been placed anywhere, instead you asked ... .you actually asked to be put there.¡±


    ¡°There are contracts in the Outer Lands too.¡± Aodh replied a little sharper than he¡¯d intended, he had already drank too much for such deep questioning.


    ¡°Yea sure there¡¯s killing the odd beastling. But what do you do in the meantime? Were you really just wandering about the place?¡±


    ¡°And what if I was? I don¡¯t have to do exactly what every single one of us does. I can make some decisions of my own.¡±


    Pandred shook his head and sighed, ¡°But why? What¡¯s the point of it all Aodh. You are a Foxling. Why are you trying to run away from that? Is it because of what happened with Fa-¡±


    ¡°It has nothing to do with that. You claim I am running? Running from what? I am here. How can I be running away from that which I have willingly returned to? Why are you trying to run away from that? Shut up Pandred.¡±


    Pandred stared at Aodh wide eyed and open mouthed.


    ¡°I¡­ am merely asking a question.¡± Pandred seemed to be in complete disbelief.


    ¡°You need to relax, Aodh.¡± Janear puffed out his cheeks, ¡°Something has you very stressed. ¡°Might need something stronger for him Pandred.¡±


    ¡°I reckon you are right Brother.¡±


    Aodh put his head in his hands, ¡°Something does not have me stressed. You do. Both of you.¡±


    ¡°Us? We are trying to help you Aodh.¡± Janear looked at Pandred and then back to Aodh. ¡°Sometimes I don¡¯t get you Aodh.¡±


    Aodh gripped his cup and took a deep breath.


    ¡°How long have you been back in the manor?¡± He was eager to change topics.


    ¡°Me?¡± Pandred scratched his nose, ¡°Bout two weeks and I¡¯m here for another few. The usual. Unlike you I follow the schedule. Perhaps that''s why you are so stressed, being out in the wilds for so long without a break. You need to be in the comfort of your own home once in a while Brother.¡±


    Aodh closed his eyes and leaned back. ¡°Are we going to discuss something other than what I should or should not do tonight? I have a mind to take this bottle and head up to bed as it is.¡±


    Janear placed a hand on his shoulder, ¡°No, no. We have lots to talk about. Things more important than all that.¡±


    He looked at both with raised brows but said nothing further.


    ¡°Well?¡± Pandred asked, ¡°What things?¡±


    Janear leaned in further, ¡°Girls.¡±


    ¡°Ahhha yes.¡± Pandred slammed his cup down, ¡°Now that is important.¡±


    Aodh shrugged, ¡°Can be.¡±


    ¡°Can be. Don¡¯t play nonchalant Aodh. Here, you go first Pandred. What was it you said about the elvish women?¡±


    ¡°Brothers, I am telling you, they are more elegant and divine then you know. Bodies, lips, faces, all of it. And incredible bums.¡± He bobbed his head from side to side, ¡°Incredible. I was seeing one for a while you know. Until she found out I was a beastling. Apparently it was okay to have a human paramour. But a Beastling? Ohhhh no. Explain that one to me if you could? Ahhh I hated her in the end. Hate her now. She is bloody lovely though, bloody lovely.¡±


    ¡°She is lovely or you hate her, which is it?¡± Janear asked.


    ¡°Can¡¯t it be both.¡± Pandred looked up to the roof, ¡°Love is a strange thing.¡±


    ¡°You loved her?¡± Janear was frowning at Pandred.


    ¡°Well I mean¡­.I loved parts of her. But that¡¯s all done with now. I think.¡± Pandred squinted, looking thoughtful. ¡°Well go on then, that¡¯s my sole conquest. I was rather preoccupied with my elf. You two? I need cheering up.¡±


    Janear looked at Aodh but seeing no sign he was about to speak Janear cleared his throat.


    ¡°I think I have my mate.¡±


    Both Aodh and Pandred looked at Janear in surprise.


    ¡°What already?¡± Pandred asked, ¡°Bit soon isn¡¯t it? You don¡¯t have to breed for another ten years for Gods sake?¡±


    ¡°Well there¡¯s more to it than breeding. I like her.¡±


    ¡°What¡¯s that got to do with anything?¡± Pandred looked confused.


    ¡°Who?¡± Aodh asked.


    ¡°Tera.¡±


    ¡°Tera?¡±


    ¡°Yes, she¡¯s also in the Elects, for the vixens.¡±


    ¡°Well be careful,¡± Aodh took a long drink, ¡°You know how Desra feels. Watch how you act around her.¡±


    ¡°Well of course I know that. And I am careful, we are careful. About everything we do.¡±


    Aodh shook his head, ¡°It¡¯s dangerous Janear. I suppose you¡¯d like her to be the one you have your cubs with, yes?¡±


    ¡°Yes I would, and?¡±


    ¡°And you think you can hide your relationship, or whatever it is for 10 years? If Desra finds out he¡¯ll force you to take another. We do not do love Brother. Remember that.¡±


    ¡°Yes, I do remember Brother. Which is why I¡¯m being careful. I know we are more watched than most, I haven¡¯t made Elects for nothing.¡±


    Aodh glanced at Pandred, he rolled his eyes. Aodh agreed with his sentiment. There was no room for romance in the Dynasty. Desra was quite adamant on that, mating taken more as a science than something to build a life on. It was why parents were never revealed to their children, or they them. Or at least that was how it was meant to be. Their Father had had his own interpretations of such rules.


    ¡°You could be supportive, there are others that have done the same.¡±


    ¡°Ahhh but what kind of life is it?¡± Pandred sighed, ¡°Hiding around looking for a moment here, a moment there. Too much pressure I say. One of those eager to please Desra is bound to catch you at some point. There¡¯s too many like that Janear.¡±


    ¡°So it would be better to resign myself to a life alone then?¡±


    ¡°Yes,¡± Aodh and Pandred answered together.


    ¡°Balls to that.¡±


    Janear snatched the beaker and poured himself a drink. He clearly had expected a different kind of response.


    ¡°Alright then, come on Aodh. You¡¯ve heard us two. Let us hear how the lady killer has fared this past year.¡±


    ¡°Lady Killer?¡± Aodh snorted, ¡°You think so much of me?¡±


    Janear shoved Aodh playfully, ¡°Oh come on. You know the girls always like you best. They fell for that brooding dark vibe you had going on¡­¡± he grinned, ¡°you know the hermit kinda one.¡±


    A case of literary theft: this tale is not rightfully on Amazon; if you see it, report the violation.


    ¡°I am not a hermit.¡± Aodh slapped his Brother¡¯s hand away, a little too hard causing him to almost fall from his chair. Straightening himself back up he fixed his collar.


    ¡°I merely value my alone time. And they never liked me best.¡±


    ¡°Fine, fine, as you say. But quit stalling, go on I¡¯m sure you had many adventures out in those wild lands.¡±


    Aodh shrugged, ¡°It is certainly possible.¡±


    Pandred snatched Aodh¡¯s cup away. ¡°You better stop with all that coy shit. What did you get up to eh?¡±


    ¡°Give it Pandred.¡±


    ¡°What did you get up to?¡± Pandred asked again.


    Aodh sighed, ¡°Nothing crazy. I met one or two human ladies. Nice ones. I spent some days with them. Enjoyable, if short.¡±


    ¡°Sounds like me with the elf after a night spent drinking.¡± Pandred laughed loudly, mostly to himself.


    ¡°And there was a satyr.¡±


    Pandred stopped laughing. Janear put down his cup.


    ¡°A satyr?¡± Pandred asked. He leaned in, ¡°You were with one of them?¡±


    ¡°I was. I met her and a band of her kind while on the outer highways. They are a good people, they allowed me stay with them, drink and eat with them.¡±


    ¡°And in return you stole away one of their girls?¡± Pandred tutted.


    ¡°I did not steal anything. On my last night with them we had a few drinks, a dance. It was a natural conclusion. We had a¡­ a bond her and I.¡±


    ¡°Natural?¡± Janear frowned, smiling, ¡°don¡¯t they have the lower half of a goat?¡±


    ¡°No, and you know they don¡¯t.¡± Aodh replied, ¡°they have hooves yes, and maybe are slightly hairier around ... .look that does not matter. She was rather lovely in fact.¡±


    ¡°What did you do with the tail?¡± Pandred did not smile as he asked the question, though Janear began laughing all the same.


    Aodh stared hard at Pandred, but seeing only sincerity in his expression he decided to answer.


    ¡°Well I don¡¯t know really, wasn¡¯t an issue at the time.¡±


    ¡°By Gods,¡± Pandred shook his head, ¡°A satyr eh? I suppose there would have to be pretty ones of them too.¡± He folded his arms, ¡°I can imagine it alright.¡±


    A silence fell over them, broken only by the sound of cups and the bottle being poured out.


    ¡°Speaking of girls, I believe Tera and a few of her friends are upstairs. We could invite them down. Now that we¡¯ve talked about them we might as well talk to some actual girls.¡±


    ¡°A solid plan. A very solid plan.¡± Pandred waved his cup in Janear¡¯s direction for emphasis. ¡°You go on up and get them and me and Aodh will finish off this.¡±


    ¡°I like that one.¡± Aodh agreed.


    ¡°Well, I mean maybe one of you should go, you are older.¡±


    ¡°What?¡± Aodh turned to look at him, ¡°You just said Tera is to be your mate and now you''re scared to go up and see her?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m not scared. I just you know¡­it¡¯s not just her up there, there¡¯ll probably be four or five of them.¡±


    ¡°Gods you are scared.¡± Pandred shook his head, ¡°You are an elect and you''re scared to go up and talk to your own Kind.¡±


    ¡°Alright then,¡± Janear pointed towards the door, ¡°You go up and get them so if you''re so great.¡±


    ¡°Maybe I will.¡± Pandred didn¡¯t move.


    ¡°Although, Aodh, it is you the girls like. Be best I think if you went up.¡±


    ¡°Me?¡± Aodh looked at his two brothers with disgust, ¡°Both of you frightened by a couple of girls.¡±


    ¡°You¡¯ll go up then?¡± Janear asked.


    ¡°No. I do not see why I should.¡±


    ¡°Well then you are scared too.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m not scared, I just don¡¯t have a care if they come or not.¡±


    Aodh raised a hand before either of the two could respond.


    ¡°Look, let¡¯s finish off these bottles together, after if¡­.if we still want to we can all go up.¡±


    ¡°Great call,¡± Pandred nodded vigorously.


    ¡°Nice,¡± Janear agreed.


    There were still two bottles remaining to them. By the time both were empty Aodh was feeling quite relaxed. Nothing seemed beyond him anymore.


    ¡°Right then. We do this then we need to do it properly.¡±


    ¡°Like a contract.¡± Pandred spoke, though his eyes stayed closed.


    ¡°Exactly. Exactly like a contract.¡± Aodh grabbed Pandred by the shoulder and urged him awake. ¡°Exactly like that Brother.¡±


    Janear got to his feet, a little shakily he had to lean heavily on Aodh to stay upright. The movement causing Aodh to lurch over heavily in his own seat, only barely managing to catch himself as he was sent sliding down.


    ¡°We need to be cool about this right. Aodh, what should we say.¡±


    Aodh placed a hand under his chin, ¡°Something mysterious maybe...¡±


    ¡°We could talk about Satyrs,¡± Pandred blurted out.


    ¡°No,¡± Aodh and Janear said as one.


    ¡°No, best not mention that.¡± Aodh added.


    ¡°Could talk about our old days? Training?¡± Janear suggested.


    ¡°Nah, too many bad memories.¡± Pandred sniffed.


    ¡°Yeah, good point. Ahhh wait. I have it.¡± Janear declared.


    ¡°Yes?¡± Aodh asked.


    ¡°Past contracts. All Foxlings like talking about that. Especially young ones like them. We just ask ''em all about what they¡¯ve done. One by one.¡±


    Aodh and Pandred turned to look at each other slowly.


    ¡°I like it.¡± Pandred nodded his head slowly.


    ¡°So do I. Contracts. That¡¯s how we¡¯ll get them. But¡­we are a little drunk, so¡­.¡± Aodh took a deep breath, ¡°We have to make sure and hide that ok. Ready yourselves.¡±


    Following his lead both Pandred and Janear began to breathe in likewise.


    ¡°Right. Let¡¯s go.¡±


    Aodh felt a sudden urge of adrenaline flowing through him, he did want to speak with the girls, whatever Desra enforced didn¡¯t matter. There was no harm in conversation. He led the way, followed close behind by Janear, and finally Pandred who had found a bottle to take up with him.


    Aodh moved forcefully, making his way upstairs to the residence halls, the huge common areas for all Foxlings he did not stop at the door but strode straight in.


    There were five of them. Aodh knew all five by name but had only ever spoken with two of them, Alicia and Freda. Freda, in fact he had once been close with. She looked pretty spectacular in a snow white dress, one which wrapped nicely around her body.


    The sight of them caused a sudden dampening of his adrenaline however. They too had a bottle of wine in front of their table, but none of them looked half asleep, nor slouched haphazardly across their chairs. They looked attentive in fact, and stared at him as he stood there awkwardly.


    Aodh swallowed deeply, I am very drunk. The realisation hit him quite clearly. But with the girls looking up expectantly he had to do something. I should have paused outside the door, he suddenly realised. He felt rather than saw Janear behind and Pandred behind him. They had to do something.


    Thankfully Pandred came to the rescue. He pushed himself forward.


    ¡°Ladies, good evening and good night. We were having a drink or two ourselves down stairs when the thought hit us, why don¡¯t we engage the fairest Foxling ladies in conversation. For it is you that we wi-¡±


    Pandred was doing well, the girls were starting to smile at his rather dramatic entrance but his work was undone by a step. Just a single step.


    Pandred fell and fell hard, landing on his face. Aodh and Janear rushed to his side and tried to pick him back up but unsteady themselves the considerable weight of Pandred clutching onto them sent them slipping to the floor along with him. A bundle of three Aodh was pushed down by Pandred as he tried to hoist himself up, Aodh in turn gripped onto Janear who was forced down by the bulk of both of them. They all three fell slowly, one crossing across the other.


    Half up half down all three were forced to seek out the arms and legs of tables and chairs to right themselves. Aodh tried to do so without aid but found the room spun a little too much for his liking and he was forced to concede defeat.


    Once all three were back on their feets they looked once more to the girls. Though they looked on as if concerned, they were quite clearly stifling laughter. Aodh would have rather they just let it out. The fact that they were trying to be polite on their behalf made it even worse.


    ¡°Ah yes. We¡­¡± Aodh sighed and looked from one Brother to the other. They stared back at him with the same sheepish look he imagined he had on his own face.


    He sighed, ¡°Good night ladies.¡±


    ¡°Good night ladies,¡± Pandred and Janear echoed, quickly following Aodh as he made his exit.


    Likely the girls would have let them stay, but after such an unceremonious entrance the embarrassment was too much.


    Retreating they headed back to the safety of the male Halls.


    Pandred sat down on the bench and placed his head in his hands.


    ¡°I ruined it. I apologise boys. I thought I could get them.¡±


    Aodh placed a sympathetic hand on his shoulder, ¡°You almost did Brother. You almost did.¡±


    ¡°Next time. Next time we will do it right,¡± Janear added.


    Pandred nodded firmly at the words of encouragement, ¡°Next time.¡± He pulled out the bottle and placed it in front of him. ¡°Last one. Might as well get it finished now we¡¯re here. Alone.¡±


    ¡°It would be wrong not to,¡± Janear agreed.


    ¡°It would,¡± Aodh added.


    Gathering up their three cups Pandred filled each one to the brim.


    ¡°To next time.¡± Aodh raised his cup.


    ¡°To next time,¡± both of his Brothers repeated.

 Opportunity

    Aodh awoke later than usual, though he¡¯d certainly drank more than usual with his Brothers so it was not a surprise. Groaning, he attempted to roll himself out of bed. Instead he found himself rolling on the bare ground. Apparently he¡¯d not made it to his former bedchambers last night. Holding his head gingerly in his hands he turned to look around him. The bed was right beside him, so he was quite unsure how or why he¡¯d not chosen to lie in it. Opposite there were two more beds, both similarly unslept in.


    As he slowly awakened Aodh picked up the sound of snoring. Turning to his side he was surprised to see Pandred lying under his bed, an empty bottle and his pipe accompanying him.


    Frowning, Aodh lifted himself up onto the bed and looked to the other side where he found Janear sleeping. Again not in his own bed but on the bare floor.


    Aodh did not remember finishing and retiring for the night, but flashes came to him. He got impressions of an argument they¡¯d had. Something about being weak maybe? Someone had claimed that they ¡°Didn¡¯t need a bed.¡± Janear maybe? Pandred had said the same, and Aodh recalled being adamant that if they didn¡¯t need one he certainly didn¡¯t. As he rubbed his back, he felt exactly like one who had spent the night on a stone floor, the stiffness and tightness of his muscles pulled on him. He wished his ego had not been so brash.


    Aodh stumbled over to the window. Taking a deep breath he closed his eyes and tried to steady himself.


    Looking out from here he could see the lake just beyond the manor walls, large, wide and beautiful. A dip in its icy waters seemed the only manner of waking him now.


    He was grateful to find a beaker of water left by Pandred¡¯s bed. Drinking deeply he wiped his mouth clean before making his way to Janear. Pouring just a trickle down on him he waited for the first signs of a reaction before helping his Brother awake with a firm but gentle kick. He left Janear groaning to wakefulness and launched a similar kick at Pandred. His first two were ignored, the third, a proper strike, took him in the chest and instantly got him spluttering awake.


    ¡°Good, I was hoping you would wake soon. I think we need a dip in the waters, yes? A bit of ice and then a hot tea will set us right.¡±


    ¡°More sleep might do just the same.¡±


    Pandred turned over again.


    ¡°It might. Or a few more kicks.¡±


    Pandred lifted his head slightly at that. Aodh got up and feigned another kick. Twisting away the feint was enough to get Pandred up.


    It was a slow walk to the lake. There were already a few of their Foxling brothers and sisters up and about. Mostly though it was the human servants and cublings ambling about. What fully fledged Foxlings were at the Manor came to relax and recuperate after contracts and Kills. Unless they were retired and now operated as Desra¡¯s instructors for the next generations. Those few Foxlings they did come across acknowledged them with nods and greeted Aodh with a few stares. Thankfully none stopped to talk, Aodh was in the mood for catch ups now less than ever.


    The walk was a familiar one. Since they were first born it was a rite of passage for all Foxling to bathe in the waters of the lake. Cold even in Summer, in Winter it was an icy hell.


    ¡®A test of character. A frozen challenge to start one¡¯s day.¡¯ So was the mantra of Desra, and thus the mantra of the Foxling dynasty.


    After so many years the discomfort was almost a comfort to Aodh. Even on the road, where and when he could, he did, bathing in cold always reaffirming his past training and trials. There were precious few things he agreed with their Leader on, the lake was perhaps one of those rare ones he did.


    ¡°I hate this part,¡± Janear said, ¡°the part before getting in.¡±


    ¡°Well shut up and get in then,¡± cried Pandred, his voice starting off strong but breaking slightly as he splashed into the water after Aodh.


    Still half asleep before, by the time they had dipped their heads under Lake Rua¡¯s waters for ten minutes any drowsiness had been rather fiercely shaken from them. As Aodh dried himself by its edge he felt almost himself again. Unlike the humans, who he¡¯d seen suffer tremendously after a night of drinking, for Foxlings it was a great deal easier to get rid of. For the most part in any case.


    ¡°Ah, there really is nothing like it is there?¡± Janear stated happily as he wrapped his cloaks about him once again. ¡°I almost feel ready for another drink.¡±


    ¡°Good Gods Janear.¡± Aodh cast him a pleading look, ¡°Give it a day at least. We are not Bearlings Brother.¡±


    They had just packed up to return to the Manor when a group emerged from the Gates heading directly for them. There were four in all. Aodh knew only one of them, for that one had been his teacher during his fledgling years. Vesar. Accompanying him were three he had not seen before, all fledgelings by the looks of them, foxlings in training. Vesar walked out in front, fourth son of Desra he walked with the gait of one that knew he was in full control. Aodh sighed as he saw him.


    Vear himself was now almost 110, and had become a mainstay of the Manor in the past decades. Though he had never been amongst the greatest or most powerful, even in his prime, as a direct first generation offspring of Desra he commanded respect. Though not near as much as he would have wished.


    ¡°Greetings Foxlings.¡± Vesar looked to both Pandred and Janear but did not glance in Aodh¡¯s direction at all.


    ¡°It is good to see you returned from your units safe and well. Both of you deserve your rest, you have performed just as Foxlings should.¡±


    Pandred and Janear both gave slight bows. In the Manor there was no tolerance for insubordination. Those who were elder were respected. Such was always the way. From Desra down. Though it did not stop the mumblings and murmurs of dissent clandestinely.


    ¡°I am glad you did not acknowledge my words young Aodh. For they were not meant for you. For how could they be? You, who choose the life of an outcast.¡±


    A few of Vesar¡¯s lackeys were greatly amused by their mentor¡¯s words it seemed. Aodh ignored them and kept his gaze only on Vesar.


    ¡°Not an outcast, a traveller. I complete contracts the same as any Foxling. On behalf of the Manor, and on behalf of Desra. He who gave me lead to pursue such a path. You do not agree?¡±


    Vesar ignored the bait.


    ¡°Well be that as it may, whatever you wish to name yourself, you are still a Foxling. But one that is not assigned to a unit. Which means that technically you are nothing more than a fledgeling. Therefore you are still eligible for rota drills. Or cleaning if you prefer. Could put you on breakfast duty if you like? Your time with the barbarians of the outer lands no doubt makes you think yourself a warrior yes? I assure you, whatever enemies you faced are insignificant. The Outer Lands are home to all manners of recluses, those unable or unwilling to make it in the real world. I doubt even now that you could complete the Hells Path. You will be rusty I¡¯m sure of it.¡±


    Hells Path was a final test of a Fledgelings training. A last deadly circuit where he would prove their ability to perform to the levels expected from those within the Manor. If they couldn¡¯t they would be forced to train a year more. That was, if they survived, some didn¡¯t.


    ¡°If you doubt me so perhaps you would wish to personally test me yourself Commander? Or one of your novices perhaps? It would surely be the greatest indicator of how I have spent my time as an outcast. Any one of your students would do? If you do not wish to do it yourself?¡±


    ¡°Have a care for what you say, fool. You understand nothing and act as if you know all. Do not think I do not see through you. I and a great deal others along with me. Your strange and odd behaviours were an diverting sideshow when you were younger, now however they only cause shame. On all of us. And on you too were you wise enough to realise it. You are certainly of your Father¡¯s ilk.¡±


    Aodh baulked at Vesar¡¯s words, he had not expected to be welcomed, knew he wouldn¡¯t in fact. But Vesar¡¯s words along with the faces on those behind him made him realise just how deep that dislike went. The mention of his Father was too much, no one, not even a direct son of Desra should have spoken it.


    ¡°I have a mind of my own. I will not apologise for that. Least of all to you. Remind me what was your most memorable kill again Mentor Vesar?¡± Aodh pushed, Vesar had gone too far, but he would now gladly follow. ¡°It seems I have forgotten, but I believe it was the assassination of some human chief, yes? A human chief,¡± Aodh whistled, he wasn¡¯t even sure if he was remembering correctly, but he was almost certain he¡¯d oft jested about the topic in his fledgling years. Though then it was never to Vesar¡¯s face.


    ¡°Please enlighten me on that glorious triumph of yours once again.¡±


    Though they worked in teams, a kill was something only one could claim. By the look on Vesar¡¯s face Aodh guessed he¡¯d been right. His lack of pedigree was something which had always stood against the elder Foxling.


    Time spent secretly laughing about the fact came back to him.


    He smiled at the old mentor¡¯s face. ¡°I hope one day I too can kill a human chief.¡±


    One of the fledgelings behind couldn¡¯t hold in a snort. Though they''d recovered by the time Vesar turned, the damage was done.


    Vesar glared at Aodh. For a few moments he said nothing, before his face slowly broke out into a grin.


    ¡°You always were the Joker, weren¡¯t you.¡± Vesar smiled, ¡°Always on the outside. Enjoy your few days rest here Aodh, you will need them for what comes next. I¡¯ll remember you as you are now, come what may it might be the last I see of you.¡±


    Aodh frowned, he didn¡¯t like how Vesar looked at him. Something in his expression gave the impression that he believed what he said. That this would be one of the last times he saw him. Though that made little sense.


    He was about to enquire into the meaning when another Fledgeling appeared from the manor. Alone he hurried down to them to stand before them. He bowed quickly at Vesar before turning to Aodh.


    ¡°Dynast Desra has requested your presence. Immediately.¡±


    The fledgeling motioned slightly back to the manor. Aodh followed his gaze to the main tower. There at its zenith and highest quarters he saw a figure looking down at him from the balustrades.


    ¡°Go on, do not keep the Founder waiting.¡± Vesar stepped aside, ¡°To have summoned you must surely mean the matter is a pressing one.¡±


    Aodh ignored the same troublingly smug look on Vesar¡¯s face and quickly embraced Janear and Pandred.


    ¡°We will speak after Brothers.¡±


    Both nodded in response.


    Aodh urged the messenger to lead on and followed him back to the manor, Vesar¡¯s words ringing in his ears. He¡¯d expected Desra to ignore him, as he had done the previous occasion he¡¯d returned to the Manor. That had annoyed him then, yet now he wished for the same. It was never comfortable speaking with the Founder. Despite the fact that he had allowed Aodh more freedom than most any other, he himself never got the feeling that their leader had any love for him. That his freedom was merely a means of keeping him away from what he deemed important. Perhaps it was not surprising given what had happened. And yet, it has not stopped Janear from joining the Elects? Aodh thought on it a moment. No, there is something else happening.


    This tale has been unlawfully obtained from Royal Road. If you discover it on Amazon, kindly report it.


    The Fledgeling walked with him all the way to the Tower¡¯s top before leaving him. Aodh took one final breath to steady himself before knocking hard on the door.


    ¡°Enter.¡± Came a voice from within.


    Aodh shoved in the heavy oak door. Desra stood still gazing out over the balcony with his back turned to him.


    Now a grand age of one hundred and ninety two years his once striking red hair had begun turning to grey in most parts. Yet it seemed to take nothing from him, only serving to add further layers of power and wisdom to the old foxling. According to Maegist Alacrand¡¯s own writings he believed it possible a Foxling could live somewhere between 200 and 250 years. Looking at Desra now Aodh did not doubt their leader would come closer to the latter.


    He was surprised to find him in his half form. Generally exclusively used for duels and in battles it was odd to see a Foxling in the form so casually.


    ¡°Try not to look so surprised. I prefer this form, I do not feel so old in it. Might stay in it for the end¡­..though I have work to do yet.¡±


    Aodh stood a little awkwardly, he wasn¡¯t sure what to say really.


    ¡°Well then, go on, tell me. How are the Outer Lands? Have you found what you were looking for amidst the exiles and forgotten of the world?¡±


    Aodh shrugged, ¡°I was kept busy. There is much work available for those with skills such as ours. The gold is not quite so prominent, and there are difficulties-¡±


    ¡°Difficulties? What do you know of them? How old are you now, boy?¡±


    Aodh raised his brow at boy. ¡°Forty two.¡±


    ¡°Forty two. Do you know what I was when I was forty two? A slave. Imprisoned by humans who deemed me too smart and independent. Only at the end did I gain my freedom, when they were desperate and turned back to Alacrand even after all he had done to his own people. When the humans were already busy with retreat. You and your Brothers and Sisters live and call home a Manor fit for any King. My home was a cell. Where I stayed locked up like a mindless animal until my human masters had need of me. So stop walking around like a sullen child of torture. You are not one. What?¡±


    Desra raised a brow at Aodh¡¯s frown, ¡°You think you have suffered? You don¡¯t know real struggle. Not yet. But perhaps you will learn.¡±


    Desra sighed and took a seat by his desk. Aodh remained where he stood, rather stunned into silence.


    ¡°So,¡± Desra finally began after a long pause, his voice once more returned to its usual firm tone. ¡°You are content to continue working alone? Away from your kin. You know we are better in a group.¡±


    ¡°You worked alone.¡±


    ¡°I did. Though not by choice. That was by necessity. Do you mean to copy everything I did?¡±


    ¡°I mean to copy no one. I wish to make my own path.¡±


    Desra scoffed, ¡°Your own path. Words such as those would only sound impressive to one of your age. Then you would return to the Outer Lands? Leaving behind the Family and the manor once more?¡±


    ¡°I would, there is much yet to explore in those lands.¡±


    ¡°No. No there isn¡¯t. Take the Dwaelven towns away and you have nothing remaining but bands of primitive human clans. A Foxling is above such low kind. No, I have other plans for you Aodh.¡±


    Desra leaned back in his chair and tilted his head. Aodh struggled to maintain eye contact, he willed himself not to blink under the scrutiny, intense as it might have been.


    ¡°You insist on being different. Then be different. I have a contract, one that would take you beyond the continent, to lands even I have not been. I think that would be different enough to suffice even for you.¡±


    Aodh lost all focus at the old Foxling¡¯s words. He blinked and wiped a hand across his face.


    ¡°Beyond the continent. To the Dragon lands?¡±


    ¡°Yes, to the Dragon Lands. The Vampirii Lords have contacted us. They wish to speak to one of us, there is a particular contract they want fulfilled, one which involves a great deal of travelling. To lands new and dangerous. One that must be undertaken by a single being. I suppose then it would interest you?¡±


    Aodh wished he had not drunk so much last night.


    The Dragon Lands? Beyond the Continent, his mind whirred.


    He was not sure before if he would be permitted to continue as a lone Foxling, in the Outer Lands or elsewhere. He believed it might likely that he would have been forced into a unit. But now this. A new land, a contract with the Vampirii, if ever there was a different path then this was it.


    ¡°Yes. It would interest me. But why me? And why would the Vampirii require one of us for such a task?¡±


    Desra shrugged, ¡°Those questions you will have to ask them yourself. From mine own conversations with them I gather that they need information, such that can not be obtained by any of their kind, for the DragonLords would detect them long before they could ever come close.¡±


    ¡°So I am to go to Tralor?¡±


    ¡°Yes to Tralor first. There the Vampirii shall enlighten you further.¡±


    Aodh unconsciously took a step before pulling out a chair for himself. In the presence of the Founder it might have been considered rude, and worthy of reproach. But Desra said nothing.


    ¡°Tralor,¡± Aodh repeated.


    He¡¯d always wanted to visit the city. Desra was one of only a handful of non Vampirii who had ever been inside its walls. Now it seemed he would be another.


    He shook his head again, it was all so sudden. So unexpected. Surely it is a sign. This was made for me¡­..but why me?


    ¡°If the Vampirii have asked for your aid, then it must certainly be of great importance to them. Which means it must be of great importance to us.¡±


    Aodh let his words hang in the air. Desra read his meaning instantly.


    ¡°You are right. It is of great importance. So why then would I choose you? Still so young and inexperienced. Why?¡± Desra sighed and closed his eyes. ¡°You were not the first I considered. Nor the second or third for that matter. In fact it took me a significant amount of time to even contemplate you. Now however, I am sure. You, and only you seem made for such a mission. You seem to thrive and enjoy being in solitude, well for this contract you will need to be alone. Alone and isolated. You are inexperienced, yes, but then what good will experience do when travelling over the Forbidden Seas, to a land none of us have ever seen?¡±


    ¡°You offering this to me, I am grateful Founder.¡± Aodh spoke only with sincerity, out of all of the Foxlings he knew many would never have chosen him to carry out such a mission as this. And yet Desra had.


    ¡°Do not be so quick to thank me boy. There are more reasons than that for me selecting you amongst so many others. Reasons which I will not hide from you. You might be surprised to learn that you have garnered interest, from those even beyond our Manor. The solitary Foxling, so unlike all of his kin in manner and goals. Educated people know who you are. A result of that incident with the half blood perhaps.¡±


    Aodh tried to hide his embarrassment but Desra continued seemingly unperturbed, ¡°All of which is why you are a fine choice for this task. Should you fail, should you bring down the wrath of some Dragon Lord down on us, then it will be no difficult thing for us to claim you as an outcast. A renegade operating without my knowledge with the Vampirii. Such an arrangement suits us as it suits them. It is best no one knows that we work together. Besides this contract already seems like one which involves a large amount of risk and danger. It is likely then that you will die in your goals, or worse still, fail in them. We Foxlings do not fail. Therefore should you fail then you will be formally declared an exile, a Foxling too bound to the animal gene. I hope you understand all of this. You are, in a word, disposable. For above all else stands the dignity and prestige of the whole. Of the Dynasty. Of my Dynasty. I have worked too hard for anything to bring me down now.¡±


    As Aodh listened he could not help feeling if perhaps Desra had intended for him to look like a lone rogue Foxling for this exact contract. It would explain why he¡¯d been permitted to be alone for so long. Which would mean that such a contract was years in the making.


    Desra turned to look out the window, ¡°For all that, I hope you do not fail Aodh. Should you succeed then it would be a great step in our development.¡±


    ¡°In our development?¡±


    Desra waved a hand, ¡°It does not concern you. Not now. Just know that for such an arduous task as this the reward of it will be properly adjusted to account for that difficulty.¡±


    Aodh said nothing. The rewards for any large contracts were always decided by Desra. It was only after when it was shared out amongst the Foxlings who¡¯d completed the contract that the contents of the reward would be revealed. He knew better than to question Desra on it, even for such a seemingly grand and unique job as this.


    ¡°Tralor is a over a month¡¯s journey from here. You will rest here three days, on that third day you will set off at first light. Once in the city you will receive further details of what is expected of you. I will maintain contact with you as best I can, though it may prove impossible to keep it. You will go then with my blessing. And my leave to act as you see best. Should anyone question you, make sure to emphasise your lack of connection to the Manor. You are a lone Foxling, now more than ever. Keep to that.¡±


    Desra got back to his feet, ¡°Now then, are there questions?¡±


    Aodh was sure he had half a million questions to ask, in that moment, however, he only shook his head. He could not think clearly. No one question came to mind, and clearly Desra believed their conversation through.


    ¡°Good, then here,¡± From his desk the old Foxling took out a small book.


    ¡°Take this. In it contains all I know of the Vampirii and Tralor. For one, you will be able to recognise their writing, if not altogether comprehend it. It is not much, maybe not enough. But perhaps you may find something of use in it. You will know the names and Heads of the Houses at least. They have likely not changed all that much, change happens slowly in Tralor. I wrote it upon my exit from the city, what information it contains should still be of relevance to you. Now go, rest. You have a busy time ahead of you Aodh. Soon you begin a journey that will define you. For better or worse.¡±


    Desra patted his chest, ¡°Ah yes. One final thing. Take this letter with you. Guard it. It is for the Vampirii Prince Arval Azareel only. Give it to him personally. Let no one see its contents but him. Not even you are to read it. Is that understood?¡±


    Aodh nodded slowly as he took the letter. Getting back to his feet, with a final bow he made his exit. Desra didn¡¯t see it, he had already turned to stand gazing once more out of his window.


    Once the door was closed behind him he took several deep breaths as he leaned back against the door. It felt like he¡¯d been holding it in for the entire conversation with Desra.


    A new contract, complete with Vampirii, DragonLords and new continents, he reflected, A real, true purpose.


    Aodh finally gathered himself and headed back down the steps.


    It is finally here. A journey that will define me. For better or worse.


    Aodh spent the rest of his three days with Janear and Pandred, he had no interest in speaking to any of the others at the Manor.


    He didn¡¯t speak about his contract, nor anything about his meeting with Desra. It was an unwritten but strictly adhered to rule that no Foxling discuss their contracts until they had succeeded in its completion. They didn¡¯t ask and he didn¡¯t tell. Though he wished he could have. He felt overwhelmed by it all, it might have been good then to discuss the details with them. He knew he couldn¡¯t though. All he could tell them was that he would be departing early on the third morning.


    It meant a great deal to him then that both Pandred and Janear were up and waiting for him as he headed to the main Gate.


    The sun had not yet managed to break through the night¡¯s consuming shade, and a heavy mist covered the surrounding forest in a gloomy blanket.


    ¡°Farewell Brother.¡± Pandred was the first to embrace him.


    ¡°Whatever it is you do, we wish you well.¡± Janear added.


    Aodh smiled, ¡°You did not have to rise so early.¡±


    ¡°And yet we did, and here we are.¡± Pandred sighed, ¡°We understand you do not feel at home here Aodh. But know this, so long as we are here you will always find those who support you. Come what may you¡¯ll always have us.¡±


    ¡°More or less,¡± Janear shrugged, smiling, ¡°though it would be better if you could try and keep your eccentricities to a minimum at times Brother.¡±


    Aodh laughed and hugged both a final time, ¡°I will try. Though I make no promises. Now go, get back to bed. It is no use all of us having to wander about in this foggy shroud. We will speak on my return. On my contract and yours. Farewell Brothers. Farewell and good luck.¡±


    ¡°And to you, Brother.¡± Pandred gave Aodh a playful shove off.


    ¡°Farewell lone Foxling, do not forget us.¡± Janear added.


    Aodh went away smiling, whatever happened he was glad that two amongst his kin had love for him. The others did not seem to matter so much on realising that. Just two was enough.


    He was almost out of sight of the manor and its walls when he finally turned to look back at it. Whether he ever looked on it again he was not sure, but one thing was certain, it would definitely be some time before his eyes could take in its battlements once more.


    He scanned all along its walls before glancing around at its towers. He fell on the main one last. He almost missed the outline of a figure at its top. Desra.


    Though he could make out the silhouette only, he knew it was him. Aodh was too far away now to make out any features. Yet he felt the Founder¡¯s eyes on him all the same. The sensation was both a comforting and disturbing one. He nodded back at the tower. Though he was certain even Desra¡¯s keen eyes could make him out so far away the gesture felt right.


    He didn¡¯t look back after that.

 The Market

    Aodh decided to set a good pace. Tralor was a significant trek, even for a Foxling. And the road to the city would see him passing into the central plains. There he would find the Dwaelven Capital of Eis Diem. A city he had never visited and was eager to see. Desra had given him no time restraint. What harm then if he spent a few days taking in the city sights. If he truly was to travel to the continent beyond then a few days either way hardly made much of a difference. Still, he avoided towns and settlements at first.


    keeping to the forests he experienced no difficulties along the way and was making good time. A week after leaving the Manor he felt confident enough to finally make a stop at Fendoon, an old, and once proud human city, now it served as a trading hub made up of one giant market. It was called a town, though it was one only in name. No true settlement was allowed here. Not any more.


    Fifty years past, a rather ambitious tribe of humans had once thought to unite and build a new city on the ruins of their old settlement. They had hardly put down the first bricks before the Vampirii had come down on them in force. Brutally decimated it had been the last attempt of the humans to rebuild some of what was once an almighty and powerful Empire. Now they contented themselves with merchant gold and bowed low before any Vampirii or Dwaelven presence.


    All that remained of the city¡¯s once proud and storied history was a vast assortment of stalls, carts and boisterous traders, of all kinds, denominations and races. Here in Fendoon could be found items from all over the Continent. A place where humans, elves, dwarves, Vampirii and even satyrs could all gather to trade and buy.


    Aodh strolled through the crowds. There was seemingly no order to the stalls, or the wares. He saw blacksmiths aside grocers, herbalists next to armourers. He ignored them all, his own weapons and armour, like all Foxlings, had been custom crafted for them by the Dwarves. At a great cost. Desra was adamant that each member of the Dynasty be suitably equipped, they were to be exceptional, in all manner and style. Only the best would do.


    He did glance at the goods of the herbalists, he would probably have purchased some of theirs had not his own bag been so well stocked from the Manor¡¯s ample store. As it was there was nothing he needed for the time being.


    He was surprised to see that a few wealthier Elves and dwarves had Beastlings with them. As he strolled along he saw a Bearling and two wolflings along with a Crocling. All of them seemed to be working as guards. From their looks and mannerisms Aodh recognised instantly that these were advanced genes. He supposed such a position was likely an attractive one for them. Work as a caravan guard was not likely to be overly strenuous for them, and likely lucrative. It did seem a waste however, a duty well below their ability.


    Aodh got the sense that they agreed, though he was sure not to stare too long. In his human form most would not be able to detect him, not in such a tightly packed space at least. A beastling would however. One look at his eyes would be enough. And Foxlings were not all that popular with the others. Courtesy no doubt of the fact that they alone of their kind were truly independent and free from the hostility generally shown to them.


    He was busy examining some elven daggers when a commotion erupted down at the far end of the market street.


    At its end a solitary building remained standing, in the ruins of the old citadel was a hastily assembled tavern. Outside of it there was a crowd gathered by a platform. Aodh spied several humans atop the wooden stage.


    Curious, he forced his way through the crowds to see what was the cause of the disturbance. A little apart from the others he saw a Half blood Vampirii accompanied by several armed thralls opposite a dwarf and five of his own kind. Clearly they were the source of the disturbance.


    ¡°I am a representative of Prince Grunvar himself. He has sent me out personally to acquire new thralls. As a delegate of Tralor those humans should be given as an offering. For it is only by the good grace of my Prince and his fellow rulers that you and all the rest of your people are even permitted to have a home. Let this be a token of your gratitude then.¡±


    The half blood was tall, strong looking. His skin was pale, and his features dark, though he was certainly no thrall, he was certainly no pure blood either. Well dressed he glared at the dwarf with calm arrogance. Aodh knew a little of their kind. What few documents and pieces there were on the Vampirii he had read over more than once in his youth at the Manor library.


    Thralls were little more than mindless human slaves. They only difference being that they were each marked to show their belonging to one Prince or another. A powerful Prince could have up to a thousand thralls, though usually it was a good way below that. Half bloods were different. Considered Stewards of the Pure Blood households, they were something like assistants to their masters. Endowed with certain powers from their Lords such as long life, increased speed and strength and more besides, they were generally sent to complete any errands or tasks outside the Vampirii cities. Pure Bloods themselves rarely, if ever left Tralor. As it was, half bloods were not then an uncommon sight. They were a dangerous foe. Aodh knew from experience.


    ¡°You want it then you pay for it paley. Those humans are for sale. For anyone to buy, you included. But do me a favour and stop acting like you are something special will you? After all you are little more than a slave yourself in truth.¡±


    The half blood drew his sword, an elegant looking piece, clearly of Tralorian steel by its glow. The thralls accompanying him followed suit.


    ¡°You will apologise for that you half formed shit. I will not take such insults from the likes of you. Had the Vampirii not arrived you and your Elven friends would be extinct by now. Wiped out by those you now seek to enslave. For all your claims of longevity and origins here you required our aid to stop your kind dying out. Were it me I would hang my head in shame.¡±


    The dwarves had drawn their own weapons by now. Aodh saw two elves come up to join their allies. It was now seven versus eight. It would be an interesting spectacle.


    ¡°Your aid?¡± The dwarf laughed, ¡°And what aid would that be? The humans might have been distracted by you and your fucked up teeth but we always held our own. Which is more than can be said for you. Remind me again why you came to this continent? Just how bad did the Dragon Lords roast your arses?¡±


    The half blood roared out in fury and would likely have thrown himself at his foe had not the loud, shrill sound of a horn blared through the air. A sound so strong and deafening one could not help but halt at its eruption.


    Thundering footsteps sounded from behind the tavern and Aodh joined in with many others in releasing gasps of astonishment.


    Giants? Aodh had not heard much about Fendoon, but he¡¯d never expected to see this.


    There were three of them. They lumbered around to stand before the two opposing parties. Everyone seemed stunned into silence, both by the imposing horn and by the even more imposing three newcomers.


    Aodh was shocked, it was rare to see their kind. He himself had never seen one. Oldest of all the races, the Giants had long ago retreated to the mountains and high valleys as places of refuge from a world which they supposedly despised. No one was permitted entry to their homes, and no one was allowed to interact with their people. As it was they were largely ignored.


    From what little Aodh knew then he surmised that these were exiles. Giants who for some reason or other had been banished from their own kind and were forced into coming down in search of a new life. He was surprised to see three of them together. Surprised and more than a little impressed. The Giants were fine smiths. Their work almost on a par with the dwarves,it held a high reputation. Each of the three wore typical Giant armour, heavy, sharp and thick looking. One carried a huge bearded axe over his shoulder and the horn around his waist, one a hefty warhammer and the other a monstrous mace. Only their heads were exposed, the lowest of which stood some 13ft off the ground.


    ¡°Who started it?¡± The one with the battleaxe asked. Biggest and strongest looking of the three he appeared the leader.


    The half blood and the Dwarf looked at each other accusingly.


    ¡°This dwarf deems it within his right to lecture me, me a member of Prince Grunvar¡¯s own household, on what is due to us. I have requested these slaves and I mean to claim them. They were already assigned to me.¡±


    ¡°I had already bought these slaves when that pointy toothed prick stepped in. He can hardly claim what I have already bought.¡±


    ¡°They were not yours to buy. You knew they were bound for Tralor.¡±


    ¡°I knew no such thing. I bid, and I won them. Were you not so arrogant you might have been here to acquire them yourself. Do not blame me for your negligence.¡±


    ¡°Negligence? You dare-¡±


    ¡°ENOUGH.¡± The lead Giant gave a quick glance to his Brothers.


    ¡°Seems like we¡¯ve got a dispute. One that will take some time to decide upon. Very well then.¡±


    With a frighteningly quick movement for beings so large the Giants attacked. The dwarf had hardly even moved before he was smashed over the head with the warhammer.


    The Vampirii did manage to dodge the first attack from the mace, but it was a cleverly coordinated feint, his step took him directly into the path of the axe. It caught him on the shoulder, he¡¯d hardly time to scream out before the mace came back again to slice across his upper body. Half blood Head and a great deal of shoulder went flying into the air.


    Neither the thralls nor the dwarf¡¯s friends made any moves. Aodh did not blame them. The thralls, for they now had no leader, nor obvious direction. And the dwarves and elves for they must have realised what any attempt to retaliate would result in.


    ¡°Right,¡± the big one bellowed, turning to the dais and to where a few scholarly looking satyrs kept order over sales. ¡°We don¡¯t do fighting in our market.¡± The Giant pointed back to where a sign did indeed declare just that. In writing both bold and large.


    ¡°You have a problem then you settle it. Amicably. No disturbances. And no weapons drawn. We are quite clear on that point. You all see the signs. The rest of you consider yourselves lucky. I see one more glint of open steel then me and my Brothers will have to shut this entire market down. Believe me, nobody wants that. Now get back to selling. The sun won¡¯t stay out forever, and we need all of these lot shifted to make room for the others. On with it then.¡±


    The Giants turned away, but the one with the maul turned back to wave his weapon about menacingly to the crowd.


    ¡°Next time we might not be so generous. Might be that anyone else causes any kind of disturbance then we¡¯ll set the Daeodons on you. They won''t be so picky on who gets what. You¡¯ll all suffer.¡±


    Most of the crowd seemed confused by that, noticing it the Giant sighed and shook his head.


    He put two fingers to his mouth and whistled. At once there was the sound of terrible grunting and pounding steps. As one the crowd moved back further. Aodh joined them, though he¡¯d never seen one he knew what a Daeodon was from pictures alone. That was enough.


    From around the corner they came, three of them. They were huge, each one larger than a warhorse, taller than a man. The giant boars had huge jaws, full of teeth sharp enough to cut through steel. They came charging around the corner, the sight of them sent the people into chaos, a stampede erupted and Aodh had to push and dodge his way out of harm.


    Thankfully these were no wild beasts, all three of the Boars pulled up abruptly beside the Giant who was now roaring in laughter at the panic he¡¯d caused. The three Daeodon continued to howl and bite but made no move forward.


    Aodh knew the Giants kept the beasts as pets, the same way men did with dogs.  Though that was where the similarities ended. Even one of those beasts would be enough to destroy a village. Three of them, and seemingly well trained, would have certainly ravaged through the market at Fendoon had they been set loose. Aodh reckoned the threat would be enough to allay any further disturbances.


    Satisfied the Giant with the maul finally made his exit, though not before urging one of the satyr clerks forward back onto the stage.


    Hurriedly, and with obvious distress the chosen satyr made his way forward.


    ¡°Back¡­to¡­back to proceedings then.¡± The satyr finally managed to get out in a shaky voice. He pointed towards the closest of the human slaves for sale. The human looked almost Vampirii like such was the paleness of his face. Tied to the platform he had not had the fortune to be able to move away from either the Giants or their pets. Dwarf and Vampirii blood was splattered all about them.


    ¡°Lot¡­¡± The satyr cleared his throat and shook himself, ¡°Lot three C five, do I see an opening bid.¡±


    Despite the obvious shock on everyone¡¯s face things were not long getting back to normal, gold and the prospect of a good deal were always worthy motivations for people to forget such scenes of horror.


    Aodh watched on absentmindedly. He had no interest in the human slaves himself, what he was interested in was the Giants. He had never spoken with one, and was now filled with a burning desire to do so. Besides three Giants so connected to society were a great rarity, what harm could it be to try and work out some alliance with them. Beings as formidable as them would no doubt be of great interest to Desra, if Aodh could somehow work out an agreement or alliance with them¡­..Desra would have even more reason to trust and appreciate me.


    Aodh frowned to himself, surprised by his own desire to appease Desra, he had never thought it that important before.


    Ignoring the thought he stepped off to the side, he needed a means of introducing himself to the Giants, he supposed turning up to knock on their door was not an appropriate option. Not without some manner of offering at least.


    Thinking back, Aodh remembered seeing a Winestall towards the middle of the market. One that looked rather better kept than any of the others surrounding it. The two wolfling guards on either side of it only added to the prestige. It seemed a good option for the moment. A large sign plastered across the front read ¡®Arrowls¡¯.


    Making his way back he stood before the dwarf who evidently was the proprietor of the store. He took care to avoid the gaze of the wolflings either side of him.


    ¡°Arrowl, I presume.¡±


    ¡°The one and only. May I ask what interests you?¡±


    ¡°How much for the Arrendale?¡±


    The dwarf peered up at him, ¡°Expensive tastes eh?¡± The store¡¯s owner turned around to look at the bottles and bobbed his head from side to side, ¡°Best I can do is a hundred gold pieces.¡±


    ¡°For one?¡± Aodh made a show of glancing over at a similar stall not far behind him. ¡°That is certainly not the best deal to be made in a place as well supplied as this.¡±


    ¡°Oh? Then why are you standing here smartass. I don¡¯t do haggling boy. My store has the best goods, at the best prices. You don¡¯t like it then go and try one of those other sellers. I¡¯m sure you¡¯ll find some piss at a reasonable price there. Though I do feel like using the old bog myself. Tell you what, you get me a glass and I¡¯ll give you the equivalent of those other sellers for free if you like?¡±


    Aodh couldn¡¯t help smiling.


    ¡°A hundred gold pieces?¡±


    ¡°A hundred gold pieces,¡±Arrowl confirmed.


    ¡°And if I were to buy four?¡±


    ¡°Four?¡± Even the dwarf could not hide his surprise. ¡°Well if you buy four I¡¯ll give em to you for 380 gold pieces.¡±


    ¡°350.¡±


    ¡°Bhhah, what did I say about haggling? 380 is a good price. Take it or leave it.¡±


    ¡°How long have those bottles been in your store? How many people do you have willing to purchase them? The only half blood here today is dead. 350. You can have them all gone today and cover your store¡¯s expenses for a month.¡±


    ¡°370.¡±


    ¡°360.¡±


    Arrowl scowled at him. He wiped a hand across his face, saying nothing he stretched out a hand.


    The story has been illicitly taken; should you find it on Amazon, report the infringement.


    ¡°Fine, 360 it is. And count yourself lucky. You best not tell anyone about this neither. I have a reputation to maintain.¡±


    Aodh nodded smiling, whatever the dwarf said he felt he was not quite so aggrieved as he let on, 360 gold pieces in one sale was a significant one, even given the wine¡¯s reputation.


    ¡°Oh, and one final thing. Those Giants. What do you know of them?¡±


    ¡°The Giants?¡± Arrowl looked up at him with a frown. ¡°I know little, though that¡¯s enough. They¡¯ve been here a month. Basically run the place already. Makes sense, not like anyone is going to stop them. Three Brothers. Jahron, the one with the maul, Yesser, the one with the warhammer, and the eldest and biggest of them, Mosar. I would stay well clear of them if I were you. Though judging by the look on your daft face I¡®m guessing you are thinking the opposite. A bad move young man, bad move.¡±


    ¡°Perhaps. Thank you for the wine Arrowl.¡±


    With a slight bow Aodh took the four bottles and headed back down to the tavern. Ignoring the warning and protests from some of the satyrs overseeing the sales he made his way to the rear of the inn where began the ruins of the old city.


    Behind the tavern he found the space almost completely empty.  Seeing nothing he pressed ahead, there was one large stone building a little less knocked than any of the others, indeed it looked in the process of being rebuilt. A colossus door had been added to its front quite recently. He guessed it must be the home of the Giants.


    He had only taken a few steps when he sensed the Daeodon. Stopping, he glanced around. He waited a few moments but on seeing nothing to either side he took another step.


    A step too far, suddenly the door of the stone building flung open and one of the three Daeodon came barrelling towards him. The warnings of the satyrs seemed rather apt now.


    Aodh did not move. Coming to a complete stop he closed his eyes and waited. Thankfully his trust in the Daeodon¡¯s training was well founded. With surprising agility and no small measure of skill the Beast skidded just past Aodh before coming to a stop almost directly behind him.  Grunting and panting it made no further move. But Aodh got the impression that he could not make any further move either. He waited.


    It took almost a minute, but finally one of the three Giants lumbered out. He was still in armour but had no weapon drawn for the moment. Aodh recognised him as the one with the warhammer, Yesser.


    ¡°Interesting, usually a Daedon charge sends any visitor screeching back to the tavern with a hefty chunk taken out of him. Not you it seems. You petrified or brave?¡±


    One of the other Giants stuck his considerable head out, Jahron. ¡°Or stupid?¡±


    ¡°Can I be all three?¡± Aodh asked, he was making a big effort to display nonchalance, though it was taking all his willpower not to turn and face the Beast busy breathing down his neck.


    ¡°I suppose you can,¡± Yesser laughed loudly. ¡°What you think you are doing coming up here anyways? You didn¡¯t get that this was a no go zone? Pretty damn obvious I would have thought.¡±


    ¡°I wish to speak with you.¡±


    ¡°Speak with us.¡± Yesser frowned, ¡°What do you think this is, you think we speak to any old dwarf.¡±


    Aodh frowned, ¡°I¡¯m not a dwarf.¡±


    ¡°To us you might as well be. Though it¡¯s true you haven¡¯t got the beard. But let us be clear. We don¡¯t do hosting. You wish to speak to us, talk to those satyrs down there. We think whatever it is you have to say is interesting enough then we might share a word with you. Until then, kindly fuck off.¡±


    ¡°I have gifts?¡±


    ¡°Gifts?¡± Yesser had almost turned but that stopped him. His Brother¡¯s large head popped out again.


    ¡°What kind of gifts? Jahron asked.


    Aodh was pleased to see his idea was a good one.


    ¡°Arrendale. Four bottles.¡±


    The two Giants looked at each other.


    ¡°Arrendale? You¡¯ve got gold then eh?¡± Jahron raised a brow.


    Aodh shrugged, the expenses meant little to him.


    Gold was indeed not something he lacked. His years spent completing contracts whilst generally sleeping rough or in some old tavern had left him with quite a substantial boon. More than that however was the gifts Desra had left him for his departure. Gold enough to see him live comfortably for a year if need be. Expensive as it might be, the wine felt a worthy trade if it meant an audience with the Giants.


    Yesser finally scratched his jaw and spit down heavily, ¡°Hmmm, hardly enough to wet our tongues that. Still the gesture is a fine one. Very well, you might as well come in, you are more keen than most. And you did manage to not shit yourself when Mastie ran at you. For that alone you deserve something. We¡¯ll let you sit with us. For a moment or two at least.¡±


    Aodh, delighted, was about to step forward but a growl from behind made him reconsider.


    ¡°Ahhh, perhaps you might call off¡­.Mastie was it?¡±


    ¡°Ah yes, wouldn¡¯t do to have him tear your neck out now would it. Might spill the wine.¡± Yesser whistled and the beast instantly tore off back to its master. Breathing a deep sigh of relief Aodh strode up to the massive doors. It must have been at least 15 ft high.


    Inside the place was clearly in need of renovation. All of the walls separating the rooms had been knocked down to create one large hall. It might have been a barracks at some time or other. The ceiling for the first floor was completely taken out. Most of the roof was caved in but had been repaired in parts, and the rest covered over with a thick canopy. A huge fire was lighting at the far end of the room and the three Giants were sitting down at what was an equally huge table, Mosar was at its head.


    Clearly they were busy making this place their home.


    Aodh hoisted up his bag with the wine onto the table, the task requiring quite a bit of skill and agility to accomplish. Though the three sat comfortably on their chairs he was forced to stand almost upright on his so as to be able to easily look on them.


    ¡°Right, give that here then little one.¡± Masar reached over and plucked the bag easily from Aodh.


    ¡°We¡®ll have ourselves one drink before we get down to speaking.¡±


    With surprising delicacy he removed the four bottles from the bag.


    ¡°I won¡¯t lie, I am fond of this stuff, if only it came in bigger bottles. Eh, Jahron, go get the mead. We mix it then we might be able to actually get some use out of this.¡±


    Jahron got to his feet and went over to where a stack of about eight large barrels were laid on the floor. Grabbing one he brought it back to rest on the table.


    Taking three glasses Mosar poured three of the bottles into each of the glasses. The entire large bottle of wine hardly reaching more than a third of the way up the glass. He looked at the fourth glass and then at Aodh.


    ¡°You best be taking the bottle. Reckon a glass might be a little big for you.¡±


    Standing up he released a lever of the barrel¡¯s bottom and filled up each of their three cups almost to the brim. He winked at his fellows and took back Aodh¡¯s bottle. ¡°Here, you might as well have a taste of it. Proper Giant¡¯s mead this. The real stuff. He took a quick sip of the bottle, though even that made a sizeable dent, before carefully pouring in some of their own mead into the Bottle.


    ¡°Now then. That¡¯s a proper drink. It¡¯s nice to mix the mead about now and again you know. Right then. A cheers. To good drink and a fine sunny day. What more would a giant need?¡±


    ¡°A giant woman,¡± Yesser added to great laughter from the other two.


    ¡°That indeed,¡± Mosar acknowledged, ¡°But alas, we¡¯ll get that sorted later. For now, a drink.¡±


    Aodh noticed the looks of amusement on the Giants faces as he lifted the considerable bottle to his lips. Though they drank first, it meant little. Whatever they might need to poison him it would have to be multiplied by a hundred to do anything to them. He was sure they hadn¡¯t though. Almost certain. Still, it was with no small sense of anxiety that he took his first sip.


    The first of the mixture had hardly touched his lips before he was forced spluttering and coughing to spit it out.


    The Giants burst into laughter as one. Yesser pointed at him, evidently delighted.


    ¡°Hahhahah¡­.ahahahahh¡­ always the same. Just a taste will do it. Giant¡¯s mead is no joke my little friend. Even for us. Hhahaa. Did you feel the fire?¡±


    Aodh beat at his chest, the strength even with just some of the Giant¡¯s mead mixed in was enough to set his eyes watering.


    ¡°You¡­enjoy that stuff?¡±


    ¡°Enjoy?¡± Jahron laughed, ¡°Enjoy is a strong word. But it is the only drink which allows us get any way drunk. Taste is an afterthought. Which is why it is rather nice to have that Arrendale of yours to allay it a little.¡±


    ¡°Not near enough,¡± Aodh shook his head, he had always considered himself a good drinker. Not now.


    ¡°Do you want me to finish it for you little one?¡± Yesser raised a brow as he questioned him.


    Aodh was getting a little annoyed at the constant reference to his size. Though it made sense to beings the size of the Brothers, he couldn¡¯t help but feel a little demeaned.


    ¡°No, I¡¯ll drink it. It was more the shock than anything. I¡¯ll go again.¡±


    ¡°Hoho, we have a trier. I do like a trier.¡± Jahron declared, clapping his hands. ¡°Another cheers then.¡±


    ¡°To Giant¡¯s mead.¡± Aodh put in.


    The Giants loved it, his words setting off a chain of pointing and slamming of cups on the table.


    ¡°To Giant¡¯s mead, yes that¡¯s a good one.¡± Mosar roared out. ¡°To Giant¡¯s mead boys. The drink of the Underworlds.¡±


    This time Aodh was a little prepared. Taking a deep breath he drank, eyes closed tightly shut he forced himself to swallow the mixture. It was a struggle, but thankfully he kept it down.


    ¡°Ahhh he¡¯s getting a taste for it.¡± Yesser tipped his cup to him, ¡°It¡¯s just as well you didn¡¯t spit it out again. First time is forgivable. Not the second. I do hate those who waste.¡±


    Aodh managed a grimace. ¡°It¡¯s certainly¡­unique.¡±


    The three Giants drank away happily while Aodh continued to fight down his own drink.


    ¡°So, you obviously have questions then little man. And I have time and a little curiosity so go on. Ask what questions you will. Who knows, we might even answer a few of them.¡±


    Mosar¡¯s words drew more laughter from the giants. Aodh had never imagined that the same three who had not an hour earlier decapitated two people for causing a disturbance, could now be so hearty and full of merriment. It was certainly odd.


    ¡°Why are you here? I thought Giants avoided other beings at all cost? Yet here you are seemingly presiding over a thriving marketplace. How come?¡±


    ¡°Straight in eh?¡± Mosar leaned back in his chair.


    ¡°Well, you would be right, our kind generally do avoid others. And for good reason too. Almost all of ye are blood thirsty bastards with nor morals or ethics. We however, are better suited for such conditions than most of our kind. We weren¡¯t ever made for the idyllic life of recluses. We wanted a bit more. Since we couldn¡¯t very well overthrow our own Kings, we decided to make ourselves ones. In all but name at least. That¡¯s why we have settled here. This place will be a hub for the entire continent by the time we finish with it.¡±


    ¡°And you¡¯ve been here a month, yes, it¡¯s true?¡±


    ¡°Aye, a month, give or take.¡± Yesser put in.


    ¡°Only a month?¡±


    Aodh wondered how long before the Pure Bloods decided to remove them.


    ¡°Hah, you are easy to read, little man.¡± Mosar shook his head at Aodh¡¯s frown, ¡°We have met with a Prince. This whole regime of ours is no rash move, it is a long time in the planning. The Pure Bloods may hold territory over these lands but here was only theirs on a map. They had no real authority here.  So, they now have us ruling here. And we rule with order. So long as the gold keeps coming then they don¡¯t bother us, and we don¡¯t bother them. It is a fine arrangement. You see, we are good for business. A deterrent to any trouble if you will. As you can see, we are quite strict when it comes to our rules. Here is for trade and the exchange of gold, we don¡¯t tolerate anything else. That¡¯s why we brought in those satyrs. Good little workers them goat people.¡±


    ¡°And after today? What will the Vampirii say now you have killed one of their own?¡±


    ¡°That one out there?¡± Yesser scoffed, ¡°Hardly a quarter blood. A pompous fool. No doubt the Princes will be glad to see him gone. His replacement will be of much greater use to them. Far more deserving of them powers they throw on them.¡±


    ¡°Are you familiar with them? The Vampirii?¡±


    ¡°As familiar as one can be. Why?¡± Mosar sat up a little straighter.


    ¡°I am curious. They do not seem the easiest to deal with.¡±


    Jahron clinked his cup against the others, ¡°I will be the first to drink to that. Bloody complicated no end the Vampirii. Think you have a deal struck then there is some other Prince opposing whatever deal it was you made. I¡¯m surprised we even managed to pull off this one. We work with one named Lonedrar. He¡¯s a little less jumpy than others. Seems more secure. He said we¡¯d keep this place so long as the gold flowed. And so it has, and so we have.¡±


    From Mosar¡¯s glaring Aodh guessed Jahron was fond of oversharing. The Giant ignored his older brothers obvious annoyance however.


    ¡°You seem to be an overly curious sort.¡± Mosar turned slowly, giving up on getting Jahron¡¯s attention, ¡°And you¡¯ve asked us quite a few things. So go on, tell us about you little one. Who and what are you. For the more time I spend sitting across from you the more I see.¡±


    Aodh shuffled a little under Mosar¡¯s stare. ¡°I am a Foxling. A member of Desra¡¯s dynasty.¡±


    ¡°Desra?¡± Yesser scratched his jaw and looked to each of his brothers, ¡°I know the name.¡±


    ¡°Yes, you would. We are beastlings, though rather unlike any of the others.¡±


    ¡°Beastlings?¡± Mosar nodded, ¡°Odd creatures beastlings. Though how come it is you don¡¯t look like one?¡±


    ¡°As I said, we are not like the others.¡±


    ¡°No, that you are not. And you Foxlings, do you side with the Dwaelven or Vampirii?¡±


    ¡°Neither.¡±


    ¡°Neither?¡± Jahron downed the last of his drink. ¡°So what is it you are after then? Gold, land?¡±


    Aodh shrugged, ¡°I am not our leader, so that I cannot answer. Though I would ask if you would be willing to meet with Desra. He would be most interested in speaking with you. Perhaps even of alliance. Maybe Giants and Foxlings could work together.¡±


    Mosar shook his head, ¡°Now hold on little Foxling. We cannot speak for any but us three. We are exiles. Not sure about what that means down here but for us that means true exiles. We return then it will mean our death. No words or promises will save that.¡±


    ¡°I understand. Then what of you three? You alone would be more than enough.¡±


    ¡°For what exactly?¡± Mosar asked.


    ¡°An alliance.¡± Aodh found that the words came easy to him. Do I care so much? He surprised himself with his enthusiasm.


    ¡°An alliance? To what end?¡± Mosar kept his gaze firmly on Aodh.


    ¡°To the same end all alliances are made. For power, for security. For mutual gain.¡±


    ¡°Mutual gain?¡± Mosar threw back his head in laughter, ¡°I don¡¯t know what alliances you¡¯ve seen, they are rarely if ever mutual believe me. Our own History is evidence of that. A mutual alliance only exists when both sides are too foolish or too blind to see the reality. One side always emerges dominant. Always.¡±


    ¡°Perhaps. Though you might gain from it all the same. I know you cannot be happy to work with the Vampirii. I know enough of your history to understand that much.¡±


    Aodh realised immediately his mistake. The past was better left in the past. The room, the faces, the very air seemed to turn frosty as he finished his words.


    ¡°Our history is just that. History.¡± Mosar¡¯s voice had taken on a different tone. Gone was all hints of amusement or curiosity. ¡°We do not live there. We live here. And now. We deal with what we can. In the present.¡±


    Mosar pushed back his chair and got to his feet. ¡°I have finished my drink. I think it is time you finished yours. You¡¯d had your questions, more than a few. You will be on your way now.¡±


    Jahron and Yesser were not long following their brother to their feet.


    ¡°You¡¯ll see yourself out I¡¯m sure.¡± Jahron gestured towards the door.


    ¡°Well then I am sorry to say goodbye. But I shall not overstay my welcome, perhaps one da-¡±


    ¡°Farewell Foxling.¡± Mosar cut in.


    Yesser came forward and slowly but firmly pulled out Aodh¡¯s chair.


    Aodh bobbed his head before turning and making his way out.


    He managed to get the door open with some degree of difficulty. He was about to shove it back in when he found it shut quite soundly on him.


    Alone and back outside he cursed himself. There would be no more conversation from the Brothers tonight. He hoped he¡¯d have a chance to speak with them again in the future however. There was still much he would have liked to ask.


    Why would I mention it? That mead must have messed me up more than I realised.  Aodh slapped himself and shook himself awake. Wrapping his cloak around him he headed back into the waiting crowds. Now almost dusk, it seemed the main business of the day had been concluded. Already the hordes of people were thinning out and heading back to wherever it was they¡¯d come from.


    The Giants and Vampirii and their broken alliance was known by all. More songs about the Giants had been written then there were still Giants remaining. Aodh alone must have heard half a hundred in one tavern or other. Once the hated monsters of human hatred, now the humans saw the Giants as kindred spirits, beings driven almost to extinction by a ruthless and cruel foe.


    When the Pure Bloods had first arrived on the continent the Giants had been their first allies. They had shown them the lands and guided them on the forces at play. In return the Vampirii had vowed to restore what had been taken from the Giants by the humans and indeed the Elves and Dwarves. For a hundred years they had fought side by side, the Giants, even depleted as they already were, offering their aid to the Vampirii in the Great wars. Once over however the only lands given back to the Giants were mountain peaks, lands not useful or required by the Vampirii for themselves. Enraged, some Giants had protested, one settlement going so far as to attack the local Vampirii Principale. In the riots a pure Blood had been killed. The response was a savage one. The Vampirii retaliated without mercy, wiping out the entire Giant village, including their women and children, none of which had played any part in the revolt. The death of so many of their young had hurt the Giants more than any war.


    It was a particularly dark moment in a particularly dark history.


    Aodh frowned, could those three working with the Vampirii be the reason for their exile? It would explain their uneasiness with the topic.


    Sighing, Aodh made his way back out onto the Southern Road and away from Fendoon. A sign to his right read ¡®Eis Diem 200 leagues¡¯.


    One day I¡¯ll return, Aodh vowed to himself as he left Fendoon behind. He felt some strange connection to the three Giants. A connection that would have to be forgotten for now. Those who had once caused the Giants such pain had commissioned him. Soon he would be working towards their ends. The thought was a sobering one.

 Vies Diem

    After the bustle of Fendoon Aodh was glad to stay away from the primary roads and pass quietly alongside them instead. Keeping mostly to his fox form he moved quickly and headed due South for the legendary Dwaelven city. It took him seventeen days journeying before he finally came to the borders of the famed city and its outer towers. Apart from some travellers and a few troops of Dwaelven units he¡¯d not had any meaningful meetings or interactions along his route since Fendoon. His travels had in fact been surprisingly peaceful.


    Once he was in sight of the outer watchtowers he felt it time enough to head back onto the road proper. The well paved cobbled path made for a pleasant change after so long traversing through forest and fields.


    Eis Diem was still an hour''s walk away when he first came in sight of its tallest spires. A city over 5,000 years old it was way beyond anything Aodh had ever seen or expected. Built into a valley he looked up to see the famous ring of flames surrounding the city. All around the mountaintops to each side of the city a series of barracks, tower and walls had been put in place. Upon every 100 yards a fire was lit. In all the years of its history many had thought to come down upon the city from up high. The ring of fire had stopped all of that. The first line of defence for the city, its flames had now been alight for over a thousand years uninterrupted.


    Aodh marvelled at their construction but his eyes and focus were soon diverted as the city itself rose up before him.


    It was huge.


    A wonder of both Elf and Dwarf creation, the city served as a monument to the alliance of the two. It was little surprise then that it was oft referred to as the city of jewels. The name was certainly apt, for the entire city seemed to radiate in an evanescent glow as Aodh looked on it. Each wall, home and rooftop was designed with glass of Denduin. Though it looked fragile it was anything but. A Dwarven invention the elves had taken it and used it to form structures both big and small. As hard as any stone the illusion of its delicacy had been proved wrong time and time again as armies of humans, and even Vampirii had faltered at its walls. Walls which rose up 90 ft high and wrapped 30ft thick all around.


    There was quite the que of people, caravans, and merchants waiting to gain access to the city. Aodh estimated there must have been at least a thousand awaiting access. All eager to be inside Eis Diem¡¯s storied walls. Thankfully the line moved quickly.


    The gates were open and on both sides soldiers waited to grant or refuse people entry. Most seemed to have no problem, though a few destitute looking types were forced back for one reason or other.  There was an image to maintain after all.


    Aodh strode up confidently when his time finally came.


    ¡°Name and purpose,¡± an elf guard asked sharply.


    ¡°Aodh Rua. Merc.¡±


    ¡°A mercenary? With who?¡±


    ¡°Self. I come seeking contracts.¡±


    ¡°Right.¡± The elf motioned over a few of his fellow guards, two dwarves approached.


    ¡°Another looking for contracts. Check him over would you.¡±


    The dwarves grunted in response, both looked quite bored. Aodh clearly was one of many mercenaries hoping to get inside their city.


    ¡°Ah,¡± Aodh coughed lightly, ¡°Perhaps we could skip such formalities.¡± Aodh pulled back his cloak to reveal a pouch, ¡°I¡¯m in a bit of a rush you see.¡±


    The elf smiled, ¡°Ah yes, I do see. A moment dwarves, this one has certain documents which afford him entry.¡± Both dwarves stopped, again the scene was one they appeared to have seen many times before.


    Aodh nodded at the elf and with one fluid movement passed the pouch into the guard¡¯s hands. Quickly he hid the pouch inside his own mantle and looked back down at his board.


    Brushing himself down Aodh made to move inside.


    ¡°Ahhh a moment please sir. We have to check you over first.¡±


    ¡°You¡­..¡± Aodh was pushed back by a heavy dwarven hand.


    ¡°I just gave you¡­¡±


    The elf looked up at Aodh with a stoney expression.


    ¡°Just what? You have something to say?¡±


    Aodh flicked the dwarf¡¯s hand away and took a step back. Looking around he saw that he was being watched by more than just the three guards dealing with him. By their faces alone he knew this was standard procedure.


    Closing his eyes he sighed deeply. Embarrassing.


    The outer cities were always greatly impressed by the promise of gold, so much so that Aodh had taken it for granted it would work the same here. Clearly he was very mistaken.


    He supposed he could have tried to make a scene, but that was no doubt what most tried to do. He doubted it would get him very far, at best he¡¯d be forced out from the city, at worst he might be placed in one of its cells.


    With a heavy smile he raised his hands. Wordlessly the dwarves came forward. Quickly, but with expert eyes they scanned first his armour and then weapons. His sword on his back along with the array of knives and throwing discs around his waist and calves.


    With the elf taking careful notes the dwarves announced each one as they went, each piece of armour and weapons given a different name and term.


    By the end the elf had a significant chunk of text in front of him.


    ¡°Well, you are certainly no ordinary brigand. You have the armour and weaponry of one far above your apparent station. Yet you claim to work alone.¡±


    ¡°Yes, indeed I do.¡±


    The elf eyed him warily, ¡°Seems likely you robbed them. Though since I have neither the means or will to pro3ve such a fact you shall be allowed pass. You will naturally have to pay the tax however. Any who wish to carry within the city must do so prior to entry.¡± The elf looked back down at his board.


    ¡°Your fee amounts to twenty gold pieces.¡±


    ¡°Twenty? And I take it that the amount I have alrea-¡±


    ¡°Twenty gold pieces. You will pay now. Or you will leave. What shall it be, Ser Rua?¡±


    Aodh took a moment. In truth there was no need. He knew he would have to give in. There seemed no other option available to him. He wouldn¡¯t be getting his bribe back, and he would never have given up or left his weapons behind to enter the city. No, all that was left to do was pay.


    Reaching once more into his pocket Aodh took out another small pouch. He had many hidden about his body, but it stung all the same. His visit to Eis Diem was proving a costly one. He¡¯d already handed over fifteen gold pieces with the first pouch.


    This time the elf came forward to take the pouch from him. Opening its contents he counted out the gold.


    Aodh struggled to hold back his anger, at the elf, but far more at himself for being so easily fooled.


    ¡°Twenty gold pieces. Very well then, you may enter. Resan, a stamp for this one if you would please.¡±


    One of the dwarves took Aodh roughly by the wrist before pressing down with some force to leave an imprint of Eis Diem across his skin.


    With that Aodh was ushered inside the gates and into the city itself.


    He took several deep breaths to calm his growing annoyance and frustration. I am here now, and there¡¯s absolutely nothing I can do to change what happened. Only forget.


    Still, though he walked through streets beyond his wildest imaginations, each one wider, more elegant and fabulous than the last, his mind remained on his lack of know-how when dealing with the gate guards. He paid no mind to the stream of stylish and luxurious markets and endless stream of storefronts, tailors and merchants.


    He kept walking until he came to the city centre. There he did manage to forget a little under the dazzling and overwhelming awe of the glass fountain. A symbolic image, it had been created as a monument to the alliance of Dwarf and Elf. The water burst up hundreds of feet directly up into the air, revolving and reforming into a series of images representing the signing and first Declaration of their Grand Alliance. Even in his preoccupied state Aodh could not help being impressed by the spectacle. Amongst a throng of similarly impressed newcomers to the city he found his spirits somewhat improved. Keen to build on his growing mood he decided it was high time for him to visit one of the city¡¯s many taverns. Heading away from the centre and its enviable riches he made his way down towards where the poorer of the Elves and Dwarves lived. In such areas were the best taverns inevitably located.


    He wandered rather aimlessly, taking his time as he passed through the increasingly narrow streets. Already starting to grow dark he found that he had both a hunger and a thirst.


    He was not long finding a place suitable for his needs. Even at this early stage ¡®The sole motive¡¯ was already lively. As he passed onto its street the light, sound and general cheer emitting from the place drew him instantly in. That and there were a bevy of rather attractive looking elf ladies seated outside the tavern doors. Aodh made sure to hide his smile as he spotted one of the same elves nudge their friend to point him out. This is the spot.


    He made his way straight to the bar to order the local dish of the day, some dwarven style boar, and a black beer, also from the Dwarves. Most of those working behind the bar were dwarves, so it would follow that their food and drink would be best.


    The story has been illicitly taken; should you find it on Amazon, report the infringement.


    Easing himself back into his chair Aodh exhaled deeply and glanced around him. Most of the patrons were gathered around the fire, where next to it a young elven male was busy entertaining the onlookers with some song of his people. The elven influence was quite apparent in the lyrics. Aodh only half listened, but he caught the gist. Sad, weary and lovesick, three themes the elves described better than anyone.


    ¡°And now I know you have left me here,


    my eyes they tremble and fill with tear,


    And everything you¡¯ve said to me,


    Will soon become fading memory,


    Have you gone to another, greater than me,


    Should I make him now my enemy,


    To fight, to struggle, to yearn for thee,


    Is that all you want, all you need from me,


    But I have fought too many and too long,


    So in the past I¡¯ll leave you, that¡¯s where you belong¡±


    Aodh sighed, such songs were not what he wished for at the moment. He turned his attention instead to his surroundings.


    There was quite the mixture of people in the tavern, most were elvish males and females, but there were plenty of dwarves along with them, and even a few satyrs sat around one large table. They spoke most loudly, and their tables were full of both food and drink.


    Interestingly there were also quite a few humans present. And not the slaves that Aodh had seen employed for manual work on his ramble around the city, free humans. Several had the gait of mercenaries, but there were a few merchant types too.


    Only an elf or dwarf was permitted to live inside the city. But wealthy humans could work around this through the many Inns which provided rooms for such clientele. It seemed the ¡®Sole Motive¡¯ was one such place.


    ¡°Quality spot this eh?¡±


    Aodh was surprised by the sound over his shoulder. He was not used to being snuck up on. He was being careless.


    He turned slowly, fortunately the owner of the voice was not looking at him but over towards the fireplace. For Aodh failed at hiding his shock at seeing a Beastling addressing him. Yet it was unlike no Beastling he had ever seen before. It was what looked like a¡­..a  Hare. Aodh had never heard of such a beast. It was undoubtedly a beastling yet it was more human than hare, generally with Beastings it was the opposite. Only his ears and animal nose truly set him apart from an ordinary human. Though his eyes too were different, huge and brown they flitted across the room too quick for any humans.


    Gathering himself Aodh turned back around and took a large drink.


    ¡°It is. You have been here before I take it?¡±


    ¡°I have,¡± the Hareling finally took his eyes off the singing and pulled up a seat beside Aodh.


    ¡°I am one of those few outsiders who¡¯ve managed to set up shop here in Eis Diem. A few bribes here, some gifts there. All worth it in the end I assure you.¡±


    ¡°Indeed. And the elves, the dwarves. They are willing to trade with a ¡­..¡±


    ¡°A beastling? Oh yes, so long as I supply what they need.¡± The Hareling laughed hard at his own joke, ¡°And there is precious little I cannot supply I assure you. So then, aren¡¯t you going to ask?¡±


    Aodh frowned, ¡°Ask? What?¡±


    The Hareling rolled his eyes, ¡°The same question everyone wants to ask on meeting me. Come now, you of all people should have no fear of such enquiries.¡±


    ¡°Why me of all people?¡±


    The Hareling blinked and leaned in, ¡°Why a fellow beastling of course?¡±


    Aodh raised a brow, ¡°Is it so obvious?¡±


    The Hareling waved a hand dismissively towards the other people around them, ¡°To them no, I am sure you just look like a rather well constructed human. A bit too handsome maybe, the elves wouldn¡¯t like that, that¡¯s their thing. And those orange eyes of yours are rather odd, but I doubt anyone here has had much interactions with Foxlings. Certainly not enough to recognise one.¡±


    ¡°I see, and you have?¡±


    The hareling shrugged, ¡°I¡¯ve had enough. I am old, there is little I have not seen. Desra could vouch for that.¡±


    ¡°Desra? You know him?¡±


    The hareling laughed, ¡°Know him? Me and your esteemed Leader were once cellmates. Both prized pets of Alacrand.¡±


    Aodh had another glance around the room. No one seemed to be paying much mind to them, he would have imagined a hareling would have garnered far more attention.


    ¡°You met Alacrand?¡±


    ¡°I did more than just meet him. I was a constant at his side for many years. An assistant if you will. Another one of his precious creations to showcase. He of course grew bored of me eventually, he was always more fond of Desra anyhow. Though I do not think Desra felt the same. How is he anyhow?¡±


    ¡°Desra?¡± Aodh shrugged, ¡°I am afraid I could not say. I may be a Foxling but I have had precious little interactions with your former cellmate. I imagine you know him far better than I ever will.¡±


    ¡°Well that is certainly true. Fifteen years of imprisonment together will do that to someone. Though, I would very much like to see him again someday.¡±


    Aodh nodded but said nothing, whether the hareling was a former cellmate or not the location of the Manor was not something he would ever reveal.


    ¡°The Maegist Alacrand, what was he really like?¡±


    The hareling stopped smiling, ¡°Ah, I am afraid that is a topic best left unsaid. The less I think of that man the better. A tavern as fine as this is no suitable place for such talk. Just know that he was greater and yet worse than all you have heard. Let that be the end of it.¡±


    ¡°Consider it ended.¡± Aodh imagined discussing one¡¯s former slave master was not a pleasant topic.


    ¡°You are a regular here?¡±


    ¡°Pretty much.¡± The hareling¡¯s smile returned. ¡°I like the mead they have. Tastes better than the posh stuff, though that has its place too. Then again,¡± He bobbed his head from side to side, ¡°It takes more than a little gold for me to get up there. Couldn¡¯t be frequenting the upper echelons too often, even I¡¯d soon go broke.¡±


    ¡°So what is it you do then? You don¡¯t look much like one of the mercenaries about.¡±


    ¡°A mercenary? Heavens no. Nothing so base as that. I am a trader, a merchant. And quite a successful one too I assure you.¡±


    Aodh stopped with his cup to his lips, ¡°You assure quite a lot don¡¯t you?¡±


    ¡°What?¡±


    ¡°Nothing. You were saying?¡±


    ¡°I deal in precious gemstones, I¡¯ve always had an eye for them. After over a hundred years or so you pick up a few things. My stores now hold a reputation for the finest pieces. They are a luxury, a statement. Elves, dwarves, even a few discreet Vampirii come from all over to sample my treasures, and are more than willing to pay my prices, high as they may be.¡±


    ¡°I see, rather impressive sounding. And the others of your kind? They are similarly employed? I¡¯ll admit I had not heard or seen another like you in my travels.¡±


    ¡°Ahh, well that is the thing isn¡¯t it. There are no others of my kind.¡±


    The hareling smiled sadly, ¡°I am alone in that sense I¡¯m afraid. So far as I know I am the only one. I was created as the result of some bet or another. Alacrand was feeling a little adventurous I suppose. I was a test, to show that he could create Beastlings not only for war but any reason he so wished. It does rather make sense, not sure what about a hare would make Alacrand create more than one of us. I am certainly no Vampirii killer.¡±


    ¡°And yet you have done well for yourself, better than most of our kind certainly.¡±


    ¡°In some ways yes, this is true. I live a better life than most Beastlings. Most anyone for that matter in fact. Gold is a fine equaliser, no matter how one looks, you have it then you have friends, comfort, love even should you have enough of it. Well, of a kind at least. Speaking of gold,¡± the hareling pulled out a handful of gold pieces, ¡°Barkeep, two cups of your finest red if you please. You have Ambrosi I presume?¡±


    ¡°We have a bottle somewhere yes,¡± the dwarf did seem familiar with the Hareling, he neither batted an eye at him nor his request.


    Ambrosi, Aodh looked down at his own cup of admittedly far inferior wine, he¡¯s got expensive taste. A fine drinking companion. Even Arrendale was not so costly.


    ¡°The drink is much appreciated, to whom should my thanks be directed.¡±


    The hareling gave an elegant bow, ¡°Ser Rolan de Valois.¡±


    ¡°Ser Rolan de Valois? That is your name.¡±


    Rolan looked at him with feigned insult, he placed a hand to his chest, ¡°You don¡¯t agree that it suits me.¡±


    Aodh laughed, ¡°It certainly sounds extravagant, no wonder you sell precious gemstones.¡±


    ¡°Aha, and therein lies the truth. It is not for nothing I have gotten to where I am, young Foxling, I assure you.¡± Rolan winked, ¡°And what pray tell is your name?¡±


    ¡°Aodh. Aodh Rua.¡±


    ¡°Aodh Rua eh. Very well Aodh. Let us get down to business. I have a use for you.¡±


    ¡°Yeah? For a merc?¡±


    ¡°For a¡­..God no I am well covered on that front, I assure you.¡± Rolan gestured over to a table Aodh had not seen before, sat at it were two wolflings. ¡°Not all us beastlings are so fortunate as ourselves, I got those two from an Elf, I treat them better than any other house guard though, don¡¯t doubt that. And they make sure no one ever gives me undue bother or worry. A worthy trade. As for you, no I was thinking about quite a different matter. Namely, making use of those good looks of yours.¡±


    ¡°Ahh,¡± Aodh put his cup down slowly, ¡°I am afraid I deal exclusively with the female variety when it comes to such things Rolan.¡±


    ¡°You¡­¡± Rolan scowled, ¡°No you fool I mean use you to get the girls. You attract them, and I¡¯ll¡­..well you know, flash the gold a little, whatever. Drinks, charm, all that good stuff. It¡¯s just the initial part that causes me the bother.¡±


    ¡°Aha, yes I see, that would suit me just fine.¡±


    ¡°But there is plenty of time for that yet. We¡¯ll need to drink first. By the way, do you like dwarves?¡±


    Aodh coughed a little, ¡°I would say not no. They tend to be a bit¡­. well a bit on the rougher side, both in looks and manner. More like to pick you up then be picked up. And besides all that, to be perfectly honest I always was a bit confused about the¡­..well the practical aspects of it.¡±


    Aodh used his hands to illustrate what he meant by the practical aspects.


    Rolan rubbed his hands together, ¡°Good, that¡¯ll make things easier. I myself am quite fond of them. And about the practical side of things, I assure you, they are more than capable of working around such difficulties. We are all the same lying down, I know from experience. But very well, you are more of an elf guy then yes?¡±


    Aodh nodded.


    ¡°Ah yes, I went through that phase a long time ago. I would say I¡¯m a dwarf man now however. I love snuggling up to a burly dwarf maid, makes me feel all warm and safe. Well then, come on there¡¯s no point hiding away up here at the bar, I have not resigned myself to there just yet. Come, let us go get us a table. There, we shall drink.¡±

 Risk

    What started with just him and Rolan had now developed into a table full of people. Most no doubt were attracted by the hareling¡¯s rather generous sharing of drink. He seemed oblivious to the cost and gladly called for more anytime he saw an empty bottle. By now there was quite a crowd gathered around them. There were several dwarves and elves and even a few other wealthy humans who¡¯d ended up joining them.


    Aodh decided to stay out of yet another game of cards, in truth he had little interest in such games, and there were more than a few eager to join in with Rolan¡¯s. He himself acted aloof, uncaring whether he won or lost, though Aodh noticed that whilst he lost far more than he won, when he did win it was for the larger pots.


    More than his lack of interest in cards was his actual interest in the elf who had smiled at him on his way in. She and her friends had moved onto the table next to his, closest to the fire. There were others certainly, but she had been the one to capture his imagination.


    To his mind, she was the classic elven beauty. Her long hair, golden with intricate threads reached down to her waist and shone fiercely in the light of the fire. Aodh had glimpsed her green eyes more than once over the night. The first time he had thought it perhaps wishful thinking, after the second he was convinced, by the third he had been confident enough to smile back.


    He shuffled a little closer to her. While her friends were engaged in conversation she remained a little outside it.


    ¡°The heat does not bother you.¡±


    She turned slowly, a wry smile on her face. ¡°The heat? No, I like being close to the fire, it gives me comfort.¡±


    Aodh pursed his lips, ¡°You aren¡¯t afraid of getting burnt? Nor the ash? It must be difficult to keep clean such a perfectly white dress.¡±


    ¡°I manage. And there are far more worthy things to be afraid of.¡±


    ¡°Like what?¡±


    She turned to look at him. ¡°Like humans. Especially ones with such strangely orange eyes.¡±


    ¡°Strange is not always so bad. After all, what would life be without a little of it? And besides, I fear you¡¯ll just have to get used to those strange orange eyes. They seem to be rather drawn to you.¡±


    ¡°You are a rather well spoken human. I will need to be wary of you.¡±


    Aodh smiled, ¡°True, humans can be dangerous. Though not all. Some can be quite pleasant.¡±


    ¡°Can they? I have yet to see it.¡±


    ¡°The night is young.¡±


    She laughed. Aodh made some space beside him, ¡°Would you like a drink ... .ahh but I am not aware of your name, what is it I should call you?¡±


    ¡°Sarre.¡±


    ¡°Sarre? A pretty name. It suits you. Well then Sarre, would you like a drink?¡±


    She looked at him for a moment before bobbing her head, ¡°Why not. And what pray tell should I call you?¡±


    ¡°You may call me Aodh.¡±


    A few of her friends stopped their talking to point out their friend as she moved across, she only gave a brief look before ignoring them and sitting down beside him.


    ¡°So, you live in famed Vies Diem, is it truly as glamorous a life as they say it is?¡±


    Aodh almost spilled the beaker of wine as he poured, Rolan a little too eagerly knocking his elbow against him.


    He brushed off a second even more obvious elbow from Rolan, clearly he was excited to see Aodh engage with Sarre.


    ¡°Well that would depend. Down here even Vies Diem is not always so glamorous. Not all Elves and Dwarves live equally.¡±


    ¡°No? Perhaps then you need a change of pace.¡±


    ¡°Perhaps.¡±


    ¡°You could come with me. For a price.¡±


    ¡°For a price,¡± Sarre frowned at him, ¡°It should be you having to pay, to be in such company as mine.¡±


    ¡°Your company is worth a lot then?¡±


    ¡°You can¡¯t tell?¡±


    Aodh moved in closer, he shrugged, ¡°I¡¯m beginning to.¡±


    She smiled at that, a nice smile.


    Aodh brushed a hand against her thigh, ¡°You have a nice smile, it goes well with the rest of you.¡±


    ¡°The rest of me?¡±


    ¡°Yes,¡± Aodh glanced down, ¡°the rest of you. It has been something of a challenge to keep my eyes off you since I arrived here.¡±


    ¡°And your hands too clearly.¡± Sarre moved in a little closer to him.


    ¡°Yes, those too, though that¡¯s less of a challenge and more of a necessity. Anywhere else now seems somehow uncomfortable.¡±


    ¡°A necessity,¡± Sarre rolled her eyes, ¡°How romantic,¡±


    Aodh smiled, ¡°Do you want me to remove them then? Or maybe, just move them.¡±


    She looked up at him, ¡°You are quite forward.¡±


    ¡°I am.¡± He gave her a gentle squeeze, ¡°I find forward is more often than not the best way to go. You¡¯ll just have to follow.¡±


    ¡°Will I?¡± Sarre¡¯s own hand went to his thigh.


    ¡°I believe you and I are-¡±


    ¡°Aodh. Here, you saw it. Come, come. This dwarf is cheating. The Bastard has cards sewn into his sleeve. You saw it right. Aodh.¡±


    Aodh gritted his teeth as Rolan pulled on him.


    ¡°A moment,¡± Aodh passed Sarre her wine, turning he passed his face close to hers, her perfume making him even more angry at Rolan¡¯s untimely interruption.


    ¡°How could I see it,¡± He hissed, ¡°I was busy speaking with Sarre.¡±


    Rolan seemed to not notice Aodh¡¯s tone nor expression.


    He jabbed his finger at the dwarf opposite him.


    ¡°This hairy half-form, a dwarf known as YOSAN¡­is a cheat and a fraud.¡±


    With a great deal of dramatics Rolan got to his feet. As he stood up abruptly a card went flying from his lap onto the table.


    ¡°I¡­..¡± Rolan looked down slowly. ¡°Ahhh I must have dropped it.¡± He looked around with a thin smile on his face.


    ¡°Ah¡­ no actually. AHEM, PEOPLE HEAR ME. This gentledwarf is not a cheat nor a fraud. He is indeed a rather fine Socrat player. And¡­and he has a damn good beard to boot.¡±


    Rolan got back down and placed a hand on the dwarf¡¯s shoulder.


    ¡°A misunderstanding my friend. One which I hope to rectify with a bottle of¡­¡±


    Yosan glared at Rolan, he had not blinked since being accused.


    ¡°A bottle of Uisce Beatha should do it.¡±


    ¡°A bottle of Uisce Beatha, coming right up my good dwarf.¡±


    Aodh took a deep breath and turned back to Sarre.


    ¡°He¡¯s a friend of yours then?¡±


    Aodh shook his head, ¡°I met him only this night. Though it appears he is a friend to everyone.¡±


    ¡°One as wealthy as him can afford to be.¡±


    Aodh regarded Rolan closely, he leaned in close to Sarre, ¡°The presence of a beastling does not bother you?¡±


    She also glanced at Rolan, ¡°Not me no. Though I know it does others. Makes little difference to me. I have other things to worry about.¡±


    ¡°Ah yes, such as handsome mercenaries.¡±


    She scoffed, ¡°There is such a thing?¡±


    Aodh pressed his fingers to his eyelids, ¡°Oh okay, I see what¡¯s happened. Perhaps I should take your drink away, it seems you cannot even see what is sitting right in front of you.¡±


    He pulled her in close to him. ¡°I might even have to take you home.¡±


    She laughed in his arms, she made no move to break free.


    ¡°Maybe you might. Though then again perhaps that is a little rushed. After all, we have just met.¡±


    ¡°True, you are right and wise Sarre. A true elf.¡± Aodh puffed out his chest, ¡°there are steps we should take, perhaps this should be the first.¡±


    Aodh placed a hand gently behind her neck and drew her in close. She smiled as he leaned in. Her lips had looked alluring from his first look. Their taste then did not disappoint. He kissed her for several moments before pulling away.


    ¡°It is a pleasure to meet you, Sarre.¡±


    She laughed, ¡°As it is you Aodh. Maybe you are right, sometimes forward is best.¡±


    ¡°Come, the night is young, let us have another drink. Here, gather your angry looking friends. I¡¯m sure they would like one. They drink Ambrosi, yes?¡±


    ¡°Ambrosi?¡± Sarre did not hide her surprise, ¡°It is yours to give.¡±


    ¡°Yes,¡± Aodh saw no reason for it not to be. Rolan certainly was not afraid of sharing. ¡°You will see I have a lot to give.¡± He kissed her again. ¡°To some more than others.¡±


    ¡°Then I¡¯m sure they would love to join.¡±


    Aodh left her to bring in her friends. He turned and was shocked to find Rolan almost with his face pressed against him.


    ¡°The friends will join us?¡±


    Aodh pulled back abruptly, ¡°Yes,¡± he whispered, ¡°so just relax okay.¡±


    Rolan nodded and looked over at the ladies thoughtfully, ¡°She has no dwarf friends then? Of the female variety.¡±


    Aodh followed Rolan¡¯s gaze, ¡°Not that I can see, though the tables are rather big, could be they are just sitting dow-¡±


    Aodh stopped and smiled as he noticed the dwarf Yosan glaring at him. It seemed he¡¯d been glaring the entire time he¡¯d sat down with them.


    ¡°Yosan was it,¡± Aodh reached out a hand.


    The dwarf ignored it.


    Rolan poured them all out another cup. ¡°You must have female friends of your kind, Yosan. Get a few of them down here. We¡¯ll make a night of it. A real night of it.¡±


    Stolen novel; please report.¡°A few? Both male and female you mean.¡±


    ¡°Well yes, I mean I¡¯d prefer female only,¡± Rolan muttered, ¡°But yes, yes bring them all down for all I care. We are having a bloody party, Yosan. Come on you lovely dwarf you. Time does not stop for anything, least of all for fun.¡±


    Wordlessly Yosan got to his feet and without giving any indication whether he was for or against continuing he got up and left to approach a table of dwarves sitting at the opposite end of the tavern.


    Rolan clapped his hands together, ¡°HOHO, now we are talking.¡±


    He grabbed Aodh by the shoulder and brought him in close, ¡°Two beastlings partying in Vies Diem. How I wish that old bastard Alacrand could see me now. Drink Aodh, drink. Ahh and here are the elven ladies now.¡±


    Rolan smiled and welcomed the ladies with a fresh bottle of Ambrosi.


    Aodh took Sarre¡¯s hand in his as she sat back down next to him.


    ¡°More wine? I like how the drink flushes your cheeks,¡±


    Sarre pressed her hands to her face, ¡°Is it bad?¡±


    ¡°Bad?¡± Aodh laughed, ¡°No. It is not bad. It makes me want to have a similar effect on you.¡±


    ¡°You wish to make me blush?¡±


    ¡°Amongst other things I wish to do to you, yes.¡±


    Sarre pulled away from him smiling, ¡°You have a bold tongue.¡±


    ¡°Yes?¡± Aodh moved in for another kiss. Sarre really was lovely. Their kiss lasted longer this time. Finally they pulled away.


    Aodh smiled at her, it was turning into a good night indeed.


    ¡°You see, the thing about Dwarven women¡­.¡±


    Aodh thought about intervening, but Rolan didn¡¯t seem like one who could be sidetracked from such thoughts.


    ¡°Is that they are strong. Not just in a¡­you know¡­ metaphorical sense, I mean strong. Able to carry a heavy load sort of way.¡±


    ¡°And you like that?¡±


    One of Yosan¡¯s female friends asked as they took their seat at the table. She seemed amused at the hareling¡¯s outbursts.


    ¡°Like it? I bloody love it.¡± Rolan declared happily.


    Yosan had proved good on bringing in friends to the party. All of the tables and indeed the entire tavern revolved around their own now. Yosan was responsible for at least seven dwarves joining them. To Rolan¡¯s delight, of that ten three were made up of Dwarven women.


    Aodh had his arm around Sarre¡¯s shapely if delicate waist. Her friends had taken some time to warm to him, but the Ambrosi had helped, quite a lot in fact.


    ¡°You drink well Sarre, how many bottles have you put away already?¡±


    ¡°Ah,¡± Sarre slapped his hand away playfully, ¡°Me? I am an elven lady. I merely sip. It¡¯s you who has been downing drinks since we met. One might think I bore you with how much you¡¯ve drank.¡±


    ¡°No, never that.¡± Aodh adopted a noble posture, ¡°It is only that I feel nothing from the wine. For it is you that I¡¯m drunk on.¡±


    Sarre scoffed, ¡°If you keep talking like that I will be forced to stop kissing you.¡±


    ¡°Then let¡¯s stop talking and do something else.¡±


    ¡°Something else? And what might that be?¡± Sarre looked up at him, Aodh thought he¡¯d been excited before but it paled to what he felt now.


    ¡°Yes, something¡­.more private.¡± Aodh looked up towards the stairs, ¡°I have a room here, though as it is my first night in a strange city I would be grateful to have a local and esteemed elf such as you to accompany me. I imagine I would sleep a great deal better with you alongside me.¡±


    ¡°Oh, you won¡¯t sleep if I am alongside you.¡±


    Aodh opened his mouth and eyes wide in mock shock, ¡°I thought I was the forward one. I believe you are winning on that front. I¡¯ll have to do something drastic then.¡±


    Getting to his feet Aodh took Sarre¡¯s hand in his and led her away from the table. She laughed following his lead. The sound of cheering broke out from Rolan behind him.


    ¡°Yohey, that is a fine man right there. Here, take the bottle with you.¡±


    Aodh came back, it was always good to have a bottle just in case. Winking at Rolan he bid him goodnight. By now the dwarf female so amused by his antics was sat beside him. Both looked rather cosy in each other¡¯s company. It seemed Rolan might get his wish.


    He waited a moment as Sarre had a final word with her friends, one seemed rather annoyed with her for leaving.


    ¡°Shall we?¡± Aodh offered his arm when she turned away from them rather brusquely.


    ¡°Yes,¡± Sarre took his hand in hers and they headed upstairs together.


    The room was small but nice.


    ¡°You know-¡±


    Aodh interrupted Sarre with a kiss and spun her around. He smiled at her and stared into her eyes, so deep and green.


    She wrapped her arms around him as Aodh lifted her into the air. Gently he placed her down on the bed. He kissed her again, moving down to her neck and all down her body. She really is beautiful.


    The sound of her moans was all the encouragement he needed. He tore off his shirt and was greatly pleased to see her doing the same.


    The sound of cheering came through to them from below. They ignored it. Aodh could imagine nothing distracting him from Sarre in that moment. Tonight, it was just him and her. He didn¡¯t really need anything else.


    It was the sound of shouting that woke him. In his rather drowsy state it was difficult to make out what was the cause of the disturbance. But it sounded like someone was angry.


    Aodh placed his pillow against his head and sighed. Beside him, Sarre rolled over. Aodh admired the sight, he had seen few better on waking than her.


    He smiled, ¡°It seems someone is not pleased.¡±


    Sarre groaned, ¡°I know. He never is.¡±


    Aodh smiled and pulled her in close. He frowned.


    ¡°Wait what? He never is? Who¡¯s he.¡±


    ¡°Gren.¡±


    ¡°Gren? Who¡¯s Gren.¡±


    Sarre had already closed her eyes. ¡°Oh, my husband.¡±


    It took a moment for it to process. Aodh leapt back suddenly. He jolted awake.


    ¡°Your husband?¡± Aodh hissed, ¡°I didn¡¯t know you had a husband. Why didn¡¯t you say?¡±


    ¡°Oh, you mean when you asked? Besides, would it really have stopped you?¡±


    Aodh glared at her. Probably not was the answer.


    ¡°Of course it would have.¡±


    She opened up one eye. ¡°Really?¡±


    Aodh wiped his hands across his eyes. He stopped and listened.


    It was definitely a male voice. And he could make out some words now.


    ¡°Which room? Which room you stupid bastard? I know she¡¯s up there.¡±


    ¡°Fuck.¡± Aodh jumped out of bed and stumbled to find his clothes, they lay scattered, mixed in with much of Sarre¡¯s.


    ¡°You know what¡¯s really annoying,¡± Sarre murmured as she lay still with her eyes closed in bed. ¡°Last night he was down by the wench hold. With humans. Yet here he is now with the audacity to chastise me.¡±


    Aodh stopped hopping for a moment. He looked at her confused, for all Sarre knew he was human. Was that why she slept with me?


    Sarre paid no attention to him, turning back around she yawned. ¡°I won¡¯t get up yet. Thank you for last night though. It was fun. We should do it again.¡±


    Aodh finally got his clothes on and began getting his armour and weapons. They at least were together.


    ¡°Again?¡± Aodh found a cup of water beside the bed, he drank from it greedily before throwing the last of it over her.


    She howled awake. ¡°What the Hells are you doing?¡±


    ¡°Go talk to him, distract him so I can get out.¡±


    ¡°Go¡­what? Are you mad, there¡¯ll be no calming him now. You¡¯ll just have to deal with it. He won¡¯t kill you. He¡¯s a city guard. It would be too big a scandal. He¡¯ll probably try get you put in jail instead.¡±


    ¡°Deal with it?¡± Aodh looked around the room.


    A city guard wishing disaster upon him was not what he had planned for Eis Diem. It definitely was not worth the trouble.


    Suddenly he realised that the shouting had stopped. He listened. He heard footsteps on the stairs.


    Aodh looked out the window, up on the third storey even for him it was a big drop. The sound of banging on the door forced the decision out of him. He really did not want to be seen by the city guard.


    ¡°Fuck,¡± Aodh swung himself out and latched onto the roof. He had one final glance back into the room.


    Despite her apparent lack of care Sarre had been brought to her feet by the banging on the door. Aodh was glad to get one final look at her as the sheets slipped off her. He smiled, and was glad to see her smile back despite everything. It definitely was worth the trouble.


    He launched himself up just as the door was knocked in.


    ¡°Ehh¡­YOU FILTHY HUMAN BASTARD.¡±


    Aodh was hardly yet fully awake after a rather long night so it was without his usual agility that he staggered over the roofs. He chanced one quick look back and saw an angry elven face staring at him.


    ¡°YOU COWARD.¡±


    Aodh turned to keep his focus ahead and leapt onto a neighbouring roof. He didn¡¯t stop on landing but kept running. He had quite a sizeable head start, he wasn¡¯t likely to be caught. Still it was best to be sure. He leapt over two more roofs before he finally felt confident enough to take another moment to look back. The elf was pursuing but was already too far back. Aodh breathed a little easier and went back to running, he had just found a way down onto a lower building when the first arrow whizzed past him. Aodh immediately sped up, even at a distance and with many obstacles now between them, it was an elf that was after him, anywhere within longbow range was not safe. Another arrow trailed past him to the right, ignoring it he readied himself for the final jump down and back onto the streets.


    As he leapt however a third arrow came at him, it did not hit cleanly, but it grazed him all the same. A thin line of blood flashed across his face as he jumped. He landed a little awkwardly and took a moment to examine the damage. When he put his hand to his side a flow of blood came with it. The arrow had only barely slashed across his ribs, the cut was stinging but not life threatening. Aodh sighed with relief, another inch to the right and he would have been in real trouble.


    Making his way down onto the street he bounded away confidently, as if he was supposed to have been up on the roofs. He pressed his hand to his side and stayed walking at a fast pace. He turned down one street, then another, and several more before he finally felt safe enough to stop properly.


    He had not heard a roar of anger in quite some time. He took that as a sign that Sarre¡¯s estranged husband had given up the chase. He certainly hoped so. Getting put into a cell in Vies Diem¡¯s dungeon would have likely spelled the end to any hope of getting to Tralor in time, or indeed ever getting a contract of significance ever again.


    Aodh lowered himself down onto a nearby wall and looked again at his wound. A few passersby offered up some rather curious looks at both his wound and dishevelled appearance but he only laughed them away.


    ¡°Stairs and a man far too drunk on good elven wine do not make for a good mix.¡±


    He quickly cleaned and wrapped the wound as best he could. If he had not needed to rush his armour on then he¡¯d of been fine.


    Sarre is lucky to be so pretty, he thought, a single night with her had been enough to almost get him killed. Fixing his armour and straightening his appearance to the best of his ability he set off once more.


    He¡¯d decided to leave the city. It would have been nice to stay a few days longer. Sarre might have proved willing for another night, albeit another dangerous one Aodh knew he would probably have tried for it. And he was sad to leave without bidding farewell to Rolan. The hareling had been a worthy drinking companion, one filled with noise and entertainment. Aodh supposed he must have ended up with one of the dwarven females. He hoped one day he could return and speak with the odd Beastling again. He would certainly like to. Vies Diem had much to see, and more to do. Yet somehow he now felt the urge to continue on. Now more than ever. The more he thought on it the more it seemed better to get to Tralor as quickly as possible. Only there would he find out exactly what was in store for him. He was filled with a sort of anxious excitement at the prospect of his contract. Whatever it was he guessed it big.


    He eventually found his way back to the main streets, it might have been that Sarre¡¯s husband had got something of a look at his face, but it would have only been fleeting. And there had been little time for him to alert any of his fellow guards at the gate on Aodh and his transgressions.


    As he joined in the already considerable early morning crowds passing out under the gate he adopted a nonchalant air. Thankfully he was permitted through without a second look. Just another mercenary heading out on another contract.


    Aodh exhaled deeply as he left the city behind him, he¡¯d only been there a night but it felt like a week. He wondered then on Tralor, if Vies Diem had caused so much chaos then what would the Vampirii city bring. Surprisingly, he could not wait to find out.

 A Test

    Aodh forgot about visiting any of the other towns and villages along his route, they would have to wait. He was now more eager than ever to reach Tralor and discover once and for all what his contract with them was to be.


    He moved well away from the Highroads, keeping instead to less used forest paths and mountain passes. Though the terrain was rough, Spring was already in full bloom, the worst of Winter¡¯s chill already behind them. He didn¡¯t mind so much having to sleep under the stars. He was used to such wild bedchambers in any case.


    His nights had been thankfully quiet since departing Vies Diem, now only five days'' ride from the Vampirii city he was close. He had left almost all settlements behind. Few if any dared or wished to live anywhere close to the nightfolk.


    He was settling down by his fire for that fifth night when his nose picked up on new scents in the air.


    Scents more than strange for a forest. Pretending to pick at the stew busy boiling over the flames he listened intently. He heard nothing for a long time. Then, a single whisper, too quiet to make out, but loud enough for him to be sure of its presence. Aodh closed his eyes and breathed in deeply. There were three of them. Three of the undead. Them being here now both confused and alarmed him. Thrall messengers perhaps? Sent out to meet me? He considered both options. Neither made much sense, nor then did their commitment to approaching both unseen and unheard.


    He didn¡¯t need to look to see how they approached. One from directly behind him, and one from either side.


    He waited for them to attack, it was better to let them fully believe he was unprepared before he made his move.


    They didn¡¯t take long. Without any further sign or word they attacked as one. Aodh waited until all three were out of the forest growth before he launched himself to his right.


    The thrall had clearly not expected him. Aodh was almost upon him before the Vampirii servant realised it. He whipped out a blade from his belt and rammed it into the man¡¯s head. Deep into the brain, it and fire were the only means of killing thralls.


    Even without an arm or leg they would not stop. Impervious to pain, they were strong but awkward, stiff. Aodh ripped his blade out and turned to face the other two. They only stopped a moment at seeing their comrade¡¯s fate before they moved in. One circled to his left, the other to his right.


    Both of them held the short spear so typical of the thrall legions. Aodh sheathed his knife and drew out his sword from his back as he spinned away from both of their thrusts.


    His double sided blade was almost as long as their spears, when next they attacked he slid past the thrall to his left, ducking underneath before coming up hard and slamming his sword into the man¡¯s head. Using his momentum to propel himself forward he continued to swing around before bringing the other side of his sword down on the final thrall¡¯s arm. Cutting deep the undead slave was forced into dropping his weapon, not by pain but by necessity. Exposed Aodh had all the time in the world to plunge his sword into the last thrall¡¯s head.


    He didn¡¯t relax as the man fell to the ground. Instead he whirled his blade back around and into a defensive position.


    Where there were thralls there were Vampirii. They never acted alone.


    The half blood took his time before finally emerging out from the forest and into the clearing, the moon shone bright behind him, further illuminating his pale face. It was rather odd that he had not attacked with the thralls, for evidently they must have been his.


    Aodh took a step back, he sighed audibly.


    ¡°Oh thank the Gods, I thought for a moment you were a pure blood. I believed my time was at an end.¡±


    His words had the desired effect. The half blood had been regarding him with the characteristic smug expression of his kind, it had now changed to one of anger. Relief was not an emotion one usually showed when meeting a Vampirii, even a half blood.


    ¡°I am closer to one than you know, and don¡¯t speak of pure blood when you yourself are a mongrel. A step away from being an animal of this forest yourself.¡±


    Aodh shrugged, ¡°I am free.¡±


    The half blood laughed loudly, ¡°Free? You march to Tralor through your own free will then do you?¡±


    ¡°Yes, no one moves me but-¡±


    ¡°But Desra. The one who moves all of you Foxlings. Don¡¯t play the hero with me. You are a contract for hire. Nothing more, nothing less. Which is why I am here. To prove how worthless you are.¡±


    Aodh hid his annoyance at the half blood¡¯s words.


    ¡°I do what I wish. And my powers are my own.¡± Aodh changed, transforming into his half fox form. ¡°I am bound to no one. Whatever you might think. And if you have come to see my worth then let us fight. I don¡¯t converse with slaves.¡±


    The half blood half smiled, half growled as he unsheathed his sword, ¡°So be it. You¡¯ll beg before the end little fox.¡±


    Aodh did not wait for him to attack. Despite his daring words he knew what kind of trouble he was in. A half blood was no thrall. He¡¯d sooner have faced a hundred of their kind than one of these.


    Firing off one of the throwing discs from his belt he launched himself forward, using an old tree trunk to leap into the air and drive down with his blade. The half blood swatted away the disc and used his own sword to slide and deflect away Aodh¡¯s heavy attack. Aodh had hardly landed when he was forced on the defensive, the Vampir coming back at him hard with a series of strikes. It was fast, Aodh was forced into allowing some blows get through to deal with the ones most deadly to him. He made sure they landed on those places where his armour was strongest. The dwarven made steel was light, but incredibly strong, its extreme price and value more than equal to its quality.


    Though pushed back Aodh was managing to hold his own until the Vampir surprised him with a kick, disguising it under a chop. The force was enough to send him spiralling backwards. He tripped and fell hard yet had no time to hesitate as the Vampir followed up. He only barely managed to roll out of harm¡¯s way as the onslaught continued.


    The half blood pushed ahead, unrelenting and ferocious. Still on the ground Aodh met each blow as it came, the half blood laughing over him all the while. Focused, Aodh waited until he finally caught a downward thrust before lashing out to kick and sweep the Vampir. It was not enough to knock him, but it was enough to falter the attack and Aodh was finally able to get the space enough to jump back to his feet. The Vampir seemed content to let him.


    He waited and titled his head to regard Aodh.


    ¡°I¡¯m surprised you have lasted even as long as you have. Though it seems I am already starting to break through.¡± He pointed his blade at Aodh. ¡°It won¡¯t be long now.¡±


    The half blood was right. Aodh wiped a hand across his nose, a trickle of blood came away with it. He smiled. He could not remember the last time he had been so tested. Probably not since his training days.


    He was enjoying it.


    He whirled his blade around and took up a fresh stance.


    The half blood mimicked Aodh¡¯s whirl and adopted the same stance. He really does believe me an easy kill.


    Aodh came slowly forward, it seemed the Vampir was happy to let him come. Waiting until he was almost in range Aodh suddenly lunged forward and went on the attack. He twisted from left to right, trying to keep the half blood constantly moving but his attacks seemed to be having little effect. The Vampir blocked with relative ease, and he emphasised the fact with a permanent grin on his face.


    He waited for Aodh to unleash a series of strikes before finally attacking himself, with a violent parry he almost knocked the blade from Aodh¡¯s hand. Stumbling Aodh was forced into spinning away from danger.


    He breathed in deeply, the action drawing fresh laughter from his opponent.


    ¡°Already? It is just as well they sent me, you are not fit for purpose young Foxling.¡±


    Aodh grimaced and circled. This time he waited.


    The Vampir circled opposite him before leaping forward into attack once more. Diving over the flames of Aodh¡¯s fire he crashed into his defence. They battled, each pushing against the other but soon Aodh was forced once more into retreat. The prospect did not panic him, he focused on ensuring his retreat seemed exactly as before, natural and unwilling.


    From what little he knew and had seen, half bloods were always high on arrogance. Given a great deal of sudden power, they embraced it, totally. They answered to Pure Bloods, and pure bloods only. All else was inferior to them. Weaker. Their confidence was not unfounded, for they were indeed powerful. But it could be used against them.


    Aodh continued to be pushed back, he waited until there was a movement of brief respite before he attempted an attack of his own. An attack just like the one he had tried moments earlier, again the Vampir parried easily, and with force enough to knock away Aodh¡¯s weapon.


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    This time Aodh did not resist when he felt his blade slipping. He could almost sense the Half blood¡¯s feeling of triumph as the sword went flying from Aodh¡¯s grip. But he let it.


    He was ready, with both hands now free Aodh slipped aside and threw himself forward, recklessly and without hesitation. The Vampir for once seemed surprised by Aodh¡¯s move.


    Landing atop the half blood he immediately went for the neck.


    Biting down hard he locked his jaws onto the Half bloods neck. Then without pausing began using his claws to hack and slash across its face. Neither teeth or claws were overly long, but they were sharp. The Vampir tried to heave him off but once his teeth had locked in it was difficult to move him. Aodh kept his entire weight fully pressed down on the Vampir. He struggled hard for almost a minute before Aodh felt the life finally begin to drain from him. The half blood did not stop but continued fighting until its last breath. Even still Aodh did not release until some time after.


    Finally he felt it time enough to relax. His jaws felt numb after such an intense use. He had been taught how to use them, the same as all Foxlings. But they were rarely if ever actually needed.


    Spitting and wiping his mouth clean, Aodh hurried over to the fire and lapped down water from his cup. The taste of the Half blood was bitter, rotten. He knew already it would take time to wash it from his mouth. Still his triumph made the horrid taste a bearable one. There was a sort of satisfying irony to having killed the half blood in the exact manner with which it had first gained its powers.  Poetic in a way. The half blood had been given his strength by his Master¡¯s pale kiss. Now his life had been taken in much the same way.


    A half blood was no easy foe. Yet he had managed to kill one. That in itself was an achievement. Now he just had to figure out just why he¡¯d been targeted by it and the three thralls.


    Why would the Vampirii wish to see me dead when it was to their very city that I was heading, Aodh thought.


    Desra wouldn¡¯t have sent him this far if he didn¡¯t think the Vampirii¡¯s offer a real one. Unless, Desra had openly admitted to him that should he fail he would be declared an exile and traitor. It might have all been a ploy to get rid of me? No, Aodh shook his head at his thoughts, Desra would not have gone to such complicated means so far from the Manor just to despatch him. Any Foxling could have easily walked up to him under the pretence of giving a message and he would have suspected nothing. No, Desra wouldn¡¯t have done that. It was not in his nature. There was no hint of insincerity in any of his words back at the manor. This was not his doing.


    So then the Vampirii? Aodh didn¡¯t believe it. Why would they care so much about a single Foxling? Having him come all this way just to have him killed. No, it was not that.


    He thought back. There was something else to the attack. The way the thralls had  moved first, and it was only once they were defeated that the half blood came at him. He frowned, what was it the Half blood had said. ¡°It is just as well they sent me.¡±


    A test. The realisation came on him suddenly. They wished to test me. Aodh felt sure of the fact. It was a test. One that he¡¯d passed. Drawing out a knife he went back to kneel down beside the body of the half blood before pulling out one of its pointed canines. It seemed a little strange, but taking the head would be too dramatic. He wasn¡¯t even sure why he needed the tooth. He looked back down at the pale face.


    It had not been easy, and there were likely far greater tests ahead. Still, a half blood lay dead at his feet, dead by his hand. A drop of blood fell from the cut across his nose. Aodh smiled, since departing the Manor he¡¯d been plagued by lingering doubts. For the first time since he¡¯d left those doubts were quietened somewhat. Extinguished no, but lessened. His contract, as he settled back down to his fire he felt more certain of it. It was his. He would complete it. No matter what or who stood in his way.


    Aodh had thought Vies Diem impressive. He knew that Tralor would be just as spectacular, but even still he was left speechless as he first glanced upon its large black walls. Built atop an ancient mound the city rose mountain-like before him. For miles around the land had been razed and left bare, only serving to add to the sense of awe-inspiring size and majesty offered up by the city walls. Theys covered all, the black so deep it seemed to drown out what sunlight fell on it. Unlike Vies Diem no one knew its walls'' true size, the Vampirii shared little on what it was they had or built, but as he looked upon its structure Aodh thought it even bigger than the Dwaelven''s.


    They had only been on the continent for little over 150 years, but that time had been spent almost exclusively on their one great city. Using magic and methods only known to them they had taken what was once a barren land and made it into the majesty Aodh now saw before him. What few other settlements they actively governed had been taken from human hands without much in the way of alteration. All of their focus had been on Tralor. In taverns all over the continent it was said it was the blood of innocents that had seen them build so fast and so well. Rituals and sacrifices of humans to supplement the knowledge they already had. Looking on it now there was clearly some magic in its construction, and founded as it was during a time of constant war and bloodshed, it was not hard to imagine rituals and sacrifices having played some part in it.


    A single wide road led up to the city. Though barely past noon not one person could be seen. The city was huge, twice if not more the size of the next largest cities on the continent, whatever the Vampirii needed was provided for within its walls. Little wonder then that they so rarely left its confines.


    Aodh approached slowly, but had not made a great deal of progress before the sound of the great doors opening creaked and reverberated around the sparse countryside.


    They were monstrous things, the gates seemed wide enough to have eight four horse chariots pass through it side by side.


    Indeed it took some time for the gates to open so wide and large was their structure. Aodh stared hard at the feat of engineering all the while it did.


    From those black gates rode out a company of riders. All were mounted upon jet black horses and all were garbed in the same black armour of the Vampirii legions. It made for an impressive sight, Aodh tried his best to look composed as he waited for them.


    As they got closer he was able to make out just who it was that was coming for him.


    Four Half bloods led the way, with twenty thralls following up behind them.


    One of the half bloods came on a little further than the rest.


    ¡°You are Aodh Rua. Sent by Desra of the Foxling clan.¡±


    ¡°I am,¡± Aodh answered, though the half blood seemed to be stating the fact rather than questioning it.


    ¡°You are expected. The Princes await your presence. You will follow us inside.¡±


    ¡°I suppose I will, yes,¡± Aodh saw little other choice. He was just pleased to not be attacked immediately. So it seems I won¡¯t die. At least not outside Tralor¡¯s walls. Inside is certainly still a possibility.


    A large black mare was brought out from amidst the thralls.


    ¡°Ahh, I would prefer to walk. I am not in need of your beast. Fine as it may be.¡±


    ¡°You will follow us inside. On horse.¡±


    Aodh looked up at the pale half blood¡¯s face. He thought about refusing, but only for a moment. It was important to make a good first impression.


    Sighing he made his way up to the horse. Thankfully the beast seemed well trained, it didn¡¯t seem to move at all as he went up to it. In fact it didn¡¯t make any movement at all, nor noise nor anything as it waited for its new rider. Well trained did not do it justice.


    Horses were quite unfamiliar to him. As a Foxling he was never in need of one, glad always to use his full fox form instead. So it was with no small amount of struggle that he mounted himself on the mare. Only when he finally steadied himself enough to grab the reins did the horse move again.


    Vampirii magic? Aodh was sure there was much and more that was still unknown when it came to their kind. He wondered just how much he was going to find out inside the city.


    The horse thankfully seemed to have a mind of its own, and Aodh was happy to oblige, it took off after the half bloods, with the thralls then following on behind.


    Once inside Aodh looked around confused. Though Desra had written extensively about the Houses and their rulers, he had not mentioned anything regarding the city itself. He was not sure what he expected to see, great palaces perhaps, wonders alien to anything he had heard or seen of before. Splendours far beyond his imagination.


    Instead there was nothing, no palaces, no great temples, no forges, blacksmiths, armourers, grocers, nor merchants of any kind. Just a single wide road heading directly straight ahead. The only constructions he could see were the foundations of what appeared to be huge towers, rising high, high up into a shrouded sky. Yet they were not like any tower he had ever seen. No windows nor doors revealed themselves to him no matter how much he looked as they passed. They were made of the same black stone that he had seen on the wall, and there were many of them, all around on either side of the road, neatly spaced to allow for the colossal size of their bases. Aodh strained his neck to try and see the closest peaks but even when he looked to the heavens he saw no sign of anything other than the smooth, black stone, without opening nor adornment.


    It did not take them long before they had reached a second gate. The walls around this second gate were almost as large as the first, though the gate was hardly a quarter of the size.


    Inside Aodh saw yet another of the curiously constructed towers, but this was not like any of the others. For one it was far less wide, and unlike the others it did have a stairs leading up to a door.


    Here the thralls and even the half bloods stopped up abruptly.


    ¡°You are to continue alone. You will enter and there find that which awaits you.¡± The same half blood as before addressed him.


    ¡°Alone?¡± Aodh was a little surprised.


    ¡°Yes, the Princes have requested you, and you alone. The horse you will no longer need.¡±


    Aodh was happy about that at least, even the brief time in the saddle had been enough to make him stiff.


    ¡°Well then I guess this is goodbye. I suppose I shou-¡±


    Aodh¡¯s words faded as the half bloods turned and the thralls again followed. It seemed his thanks were not required.


    He stood, somewhat awkwardly in front of the tower steps.


    Aodh frowned. He wasn¡¯t sure what he expected to find inside the Inner Gates. But he had believed whatever it was it would be splendid. So far he was more confused than impressed.


    He looked back around but he was alone, the thralls and half bloods already departed. He turned around to analyse closer what was inside.


    On closer inspection what he could see was not all that much. Within the doors he could make out only darkness.


    Sighing, and seeing little else in the way of options he made his way up, counting twenty seven steps up to the doors.


    The door lay open, but Aodh felt no sense of welcome as he passed inside it to the all consuming darkness within.

 Tralor

    Aodh took a step forward. The gesture must have been a sign of sorts, for he had only taken the one when on all sides light blazed forth in great green bursts. A ring of torches illuminated his surroundings. Though there was precious little to see. Aodh stood in the centre of what was a large round room. A room without furnishing or decoration when he looked up he saw no ceiling. Beneath he could make out strange writings sketched into the stone floor. Though he could understand none of it, he did recognise the letterings. Desra had learned as much and noted what he could down on paper. Aodh wished he could decipher what the etchings meant.


    He bent down to examine the floor when suddenly he felt a surge beneath him and heard the door to the tower close behind him. Aodh had a hand on his blade when without warning he was thrown backwards as the entire room suddenly shifted and rose up. He tried to grab onto something but there was nothing to grab onto, the floor sped upwards into the emptiness, rising at a speed which caused his stomach severe discomfort. The torch scones had disappeared, though curiously the green light remained, blurry and racing past.


    Fortunately his ride did not last long.


    As suddenly as it had begun it stopped. Aodh breathed in a deep sigh of relief. Wiping himself down he looked around once more. Nothing had changed, everything was just as it had been down below.


    He looked around and found the same single door. Not wanting to be within the room any longer Aodh hurried to make his exit. The door opened to him before he had taken more than a few steps.  He stopped abruptly as the moonlight suddenly came pouring in. Since arriving in Tralor, and even in its surroundings he had only seen darkness, veiled skies and misty outlines. The only source of light coming from the green flames so ubiquitous in the under city. Now the world around him was perfectly revealed, the moon¡¯s light shone unnaturally bright, illuminating everything in its milky glow. Yet, he knew that could not be possible. It had barely been past midday when he¡¯d entered the city, not near enough time had passed for night to have set in. More Vampir magic, there did not seem any other explanation for it.


    Composing himself, Aodh made his way out.


    Whatever composure he had regained soon vanished however. The disappointment of what he¡¯d seen below disappeared along with it. This then is Tralor, he thought. From what he could tell they were high up in the clouds, perhaps above them. The moon seemed closer somehow, and it shone proudly casting light all around him. Everywhere he looked he saw great palaces, each one neatly spaced out from the next. Just as the towers below were too. Aodh guessed that the towers below were actually the foundations for the extravagant structures he now gazed upon. Though that would have meant they must have been each hundreds of feet in height.


    ¡°Aodh Rua.¡±


    Still in a sort of trance Aodh looked down to the bottom of the steps to where a new company of soldiers awaited him. These looked far more formidable than any he had seen down below. There were no thralls here, only half bloods. About twenty of them, they were covered head to toe in dark black steel, with sharp edges, and a helm that showed only their eyes. The Household guards. Each one looked identical, their armour was heavier and more imposing looking than the typical half blood piece.


    Despite how impressive the twenty appeared it was to the figure that stood at their Head which immediately attracted most all of Aodh¡¯s focus. Even on first look it was clear. It was one of the Princes. A Pure Blood.


    He was quite magnificent looking.


    There was little point denying it. Aodh had always thought of himself as handsome, even amongst Foxlings. Yet he found himself straightening his back a little on seeing the Prince.


    He was clad in Tralorian armour, though he wore no helm himself. He was tall, even taller than him and though lean was undoubtedly muscular. He bore all the features Aodh had been prepared to expect of the Pure Bloods. The wings naturally drew his eye first, though folded he could see they must have been quite large indeed.  They hung by his side, almost as dark as the armour that their owner wore. His skin was pale, but more than that, pale in a way that was almost blindingly white.


    From Desra¡¯s writing Aodh knew that Pure Bloods were only ever born with two colours in their hair. That of black or silver. This one had both, the streaks of black and silver blending seamlessly together. His face was expressionless but the eyes blazed out at Aodh. They were red, as he stared down into them only one thought came to him. Blood. It was the same exact colour, deep and piercing.


    ¡°Aodh Rua? The Foxling of Desra¡¯s Dynasty?¡± The Pure Blood repeated.


    Recovering himself, Aodh offered a low bow.


    ¡°Yes, forgive me. I was a little disorientated by the moonlight. Evidently you are expecting me.¡±


    ¡°Yes, we have been aware of your progress here. I am Count Terav of House Azareel. My Prince instructed me to lead you to the Royal Council Hall. There you shall be presented to the Heads of the Twenty.¡±


    House Azareel? Aodh thought quickly back to the manuscript. Azareel was the House of Prince Ar, it was to him that Aodh was to deliver Desra¡¯s message. Now was not the time to mention such a thing however, and Desra¡¯s words repeated inside his head. ¡°Let no one see its contents but him.¡±


    ¡°Very well then Count. Please, lead on. I am eager to meet your Leaders.¡±


    Terav nodded in response and stepped aside. As one the half bloods followed suit, creating a path for which Aodh could pass.


    Slowly he made his way down the steps. There was a single smooth black stone road leading straight ahead to where he could make out what looked like a large temple in the distance. Smaller, lesser paths led off to the main road towards the palaces on either side. Each one was walled, and from those few that he could see more of the warrior household guards attending their gates.


    Aodh smiled as he fell in alongside Terav. The Vampir did not smile back, but kept the same expression on his face as he set off towards the temple beyond. He appeared young though with the Pure Bloods young could easily mean hundreds of years, and old thousands.


    ¡°Those are palaces? Of the Houses?¡±


    ¡°Yes.¡±


    ¡°And the half bloods too?¡±


    Terav shook his head, ¡°They live beneath. Only Pure Bloods are permitted in this part of the city.¡±


    ¡°And the thralls?¡±


    ¡°Beneath the half bloods.¡±


    ¡°I see.¡±


    Aodh cast a sideways look at Terav¡¯s armour, just one suit of such Tralorian steel would be enough to elevate him to the greatest of warriors were he to acquire one. Greatest of warriors outside Tralor at least, he reminded himself.


    ¡°So why were you chosen to escort me?¡±


    ¡°Someone had to.¡±


    Aodh laughed, though Terav tried to maintain the cold, austere look of a soldier at work he sensed something more beneath.


    ¡°You are a Count, yes? That would make Arval your uncle?¡±


    ¡°I suppose it would, yes.¡±


    The notes Desra had given him had contained writings on the makeup of the Pure Blood Houses. Each one had a Prince, its Head. Then came his heir, be it son or brother, he would be likewise named Prince. All other males, uncles, cousins, sons, were referred to as Counts. It was likewise for the females as a Princess or Countess. Aodh felt glad he was armed with some manner of knowledge on the Pure Bloods, little as it might have been.


    ¡°Why not Kings?¡±


    ¡°Sorry?¡±


    ¡°Why Prince? Could they not be named Kings?¡±


    Now it was Terav¡¯s turn to look at him sideways, he shrugged.


    ¡°We tried to have a King once. It did not serve us well. The last House to call themselves such died out thousands of years ago.¡±


    Aodh waited, but it seemed Terav was not willing to expand.


    Slightly disappointed, he turned instead to admire the trees which lined the road alongside him.


    Each one was identical, in both height, width and even in the amount of branches they carried. They were undoubtedly trees, yet the flowers which grew upon them were equally undoubtedly roses. Aodh frowned up at them, the roses were not red either, but a dark violet in colour, velvet like. He¡¯d never heard or seen such a thing.


    ¡°How old are you?¡±


    ¡°Why?¡±


    ¡°Why not?¡±


    Terav laughed, ¡°You are quite different to any Elven Visitors we have had here. Though, maybe not so different from the dwarven ones.¡±


    ¡°They have visited?¡±


    ¡°You think you are the only guest to be granted an audience here?¡±


    ¡°No, I am not even the first Foxling.¡±


    ¡°Ah yes, your leader. Desra.¡±


    ¡°Ahh so you were alive when he came? That would make you at least eighty then.¡±


    ¡°I never said I saw him. I merely know he came. As do you. Does that make you at least eighty also?¡±


    ¡°A fair point. I am forty two.¡±


    Aodh looked at Terav expectantly.


    ¡°You think because you told me yours I am bound to tell you mine?¡±


    Aodh continued to stare.


    ¡°I am younger than you, by about ten years.¡±


    ¡°So you were born here on this continent?¡±


    ¡°Yes. One of the few who were.¡±


    ¡°Do you like it?¡±


    ¡°I like Tralor.¡±


    ¡°But you would rather you went back to your home I¡¯m sure?¡±


    ¡°If you are sure then there is no need to ask.¡±


    ¡°Most of you would rather go back I presume? Else why would I be here?¡±


    ¡°Why indeed?¡±


    ¡°And your people? They do not venture outside?¡± Apart from those few guiding him there was no other being in sight.


    ¡°Why would they? Their palaces have everything they need. Unless they have a formal reason to do so I do not see why they would be venturing outside.¡±


    ¡°Is it not boring for them? To remain in one place.¡±


    Terav laughed, ¡°They are not compelled to. And the walls betray their actual size, were you to see within you would know why they have no need to be without.¡±


    ¡°You have an interesting way with words. But I will believe what you say. There is much I don¡¯t understand about this place. It must have required much skill and means to create. Magical means yes?¡±


    ¡°You will forgive me Foxling, but I believe I have answered enough of your questions. And we are almost at the Council Chambers. Any more of your queries will no doubt be answered inside. Come, it is time for your audience.¡±


    Aodh decided not to press his questioning, though he spoke amicably, it did not seem a good idea to probe Terav too far just yet.


    A case of theft: this story is not rightfully on Amazon; if you spot it, report the violation.


    Instead he turned his attention to the building which now loomed up before him. A series of steps rising high circled the huge building which had the shape of a half-sphere. As if someone had cut through a ball and placed it down flat.


    That in itself was intriguing enough, he had never seen any buildings so large and of such a shape. Yet its shape and size were mere side notes. It was what covered its walls that captured all of his attention.


    The entire building was covered in frescoes, an endless stream of illustrations. From as far as the eye could see Aodh saw great scenes of battles, duels, councils, lovemaking and more he could not readily identify depicted over the entire face of the construction. How one could have created such spectacular murals and how long it might have taken to do so was quite mind boggling. Aodh had witnessed art before, indeed Desra was something of a collector back at the manor. He had never been much interested, but even he could admit the sight before him was an awe-inspiring one.


    ¡°Do not ask,¡± Terav already had his hand up as Aodh turned to look at him. ¡°For that is not of your concern. Just know that it would be impossible for any hand other than a Pure Blood¡¯s to create such beauty.¡±


    Aodh resisted the urge to roll his eyes, arrogance was clearly a trait the Vampirii Pure Bloods were not immune to. Still, as he admired the artistry it was not hard to see why. He would too had his people created such a colossal work of art.


    As they came to the entrance to the Council Halls Terav gave a nonchalant wave of his hands and the doors opened before him.


    Aodh''s eyes went wide but he managed to hold in his breath. He knew magic existed, Elves had some wielders, and Dwarves made use of magical rituals in their forgery. Even humans once had those called Maegists. Men practised in both magic and physics, he himself was the result of one those same Maegist creations. But Vampir magic used by the Princes was alleged to have been on an entirely different level. Innate skills passed down from one family of Pure Bloods to the next, the ability to open doors with the wave of a hand was quite a striking one. Even if it was clearly not a significant one for them judging by Terav¡¯s lack  of impression.


    Inside the dark passage, the only light came from more of the green torches which lined the hall on both sides. As Aodh passed by one torch sconce he saw that the green light illuminated not from a flame but from an emerald placed inside it.


    Their route was almost identical to that outside, one main path with smaller ones branching off of it. Terav continued straight ahead until the passage opened up to a wide open area. Here light rained down on them, craning his neck Aodh could make out the very top of the domed building above them. Even with his eyesight it was not easy to make out, though the opening must have been quite big judging from the level of moonlight coming down. Again Aodh was surprised, though perhaps he shouldn¡¯t have been, it was hardly a shock that the moon was preferred to the sun by such creatures.


    ¡°Here Foxling, this is where I leave you.¡±


    Terav gestured over to where a pair of half blood guards stood either side of ornate red doors.


    ¡°The Princes await you.¡±


    ¡°You will not be joining me inside.¡±


    ¡°No, it will be just you. I will remain here for your return.¡±


    Aodh nodded, ¡°Very well. We will continue our conversation then.¡±


    Terav shook his head but laughed, ¡°Conversation? If that is what you call it then so be it. I wish you well Foxling. Now go, Those inside are not best kept waiting. Some of them want to kill you after all.¡±


    Aodh was only just registering the Vampir¡¯s words when he was given a gentle but firm push forward. The two guards moved aside and the red doors opened before him, seemingly of their own accord.


    He was about to turn around and ask just what Terav meant by some when he heard his name boomed out from the mouth of a herald inside.


    Aodh felt compelled to enter. Some of them want to kill me? I haven¡¯t even started their contract yet, Aodh thought as he was ushered inside and to the middle of the vast room.


    It was not dissimilar to an amphitheatre, stood at its centre Aodh felt almost like a pit fighter. All around him were rows upon rows of seats, enough to hold hundreds. There were not hundreds there at that moment. Only the twenty Princes. They sat alone interspersed all over the room, each one perched up high looking down on him from what looked like thrones.


    Like Terav these too had all the classic features of pure bloods. But many did certainly look older. He knew their kind could live thousands of years, though they were not immortal. Even they died eventually. A few elderly, if still stately and dignified faces looked down on him. But there were youthful ones too, Princes almost godlike in their appearance.


    One of the oldest looking ones frowned down at him and began to speak in a language Aodh could not understand. The Vampiric tongue was smooth, its words flowed and rippled throughout the room. Aodh spoke a little elven, and some of the tone seemed similar, perhaps a little harsher maybe, but he could not make out anything they said. Still, as twenty pairs of penetrating red eyes glared down at him it was not difficult to decipher what was the subject of their animated discussion.


    Aodh waited patiently as the elder¡¯s words provoked animated responses from several others.


    He focused his attention to the thrones and those sat on them. Each one had the names of the House elegantly ascribed above them. Though Aodh could not understand nor speak any of their language. He could read their letters. That along with the information Desra had given him allowed him to recognise which Prince he was looking at at least.


    He let the speaking continue for a few minutes before he finally had enough. Coughing loudly he took a step forward.


    ¡°I am Aodh Rua. A Foxling of Desra¡¯s dynasty. It is he who sent me here, for I believe I am to carry out a contract under your orders.¡±


    His words broke into their discussion and stopped it rather abruptly.


    ¡°Yes, you will have to forgive us Foxling, there are some amongst us who remain unconvinced of what has already been decided. They will understand soon enough. I trust your journey was a peaceful one?¡±


    The Prince who addressed him was old. Yet he carried dignity and pride in his stance, and from his eyes alone Aodh could tell he was a Prince of significant stature.


    ¡°I had some¡­. interesting diversions along my way.¡± Aodh was careful to keep his voice steady, he would not cower, no matter how powerful the people stood analysing him might be.


    ¡°Giants, dwarves, elves, satyrs. Even some of your own kind. You are not the first welcoming party I have come across.¡±


    The same elder as before leaned forward from his throne. The name above him read Azareel. So this must be the Prince Arval Desra spoke of.


    ¡°You killed one of our servitors in the forest, yes? You did this alone?¡±


    Aodh frowned, ¡°Servitors? Ahhh the half blood, yes. Yes I killed him.¡± He shrugged, ¡°Rather easily in fact. Him and his thralls.¡±


    Prince Azareel laughed, ¡°Him and his thralls eh? Hear that Lusdan, the Foxling killed him rather easily.¡±


    ¡°And?¡±


    The Prince, who must have been Lusdan, responded with obvious disdain, he looked not much younger than the elder who laughed at him. ¡°What of it? I am supposed to care about Half bloods now am I?¡±


    ¡°Well of course not, though you did seem rather confident beforehand that it would succeed.¡±


    Lusdan dismissed the derision with a wave, and settled instead for glaring down at Aodh.


    ¡°We were compelled to offer an examination of sorts.¡± Azareel continued, ¡°To show that you are worthy of the task we would bestow upon you. You understand, I am sure.¡±


    Aodh took out the Half-blood¡¯s tooth.


    ¡°Completely.¡±


    Azareel clapped his hands, ¡°Ahh you see. A Foxling. Warriors all. ¡°I did tell you. The Foxlings are resourceful. The test was unnecessary. And you lost a half blood for no reason, Lusdan.¡±


    ¡°I have lost a worthless servant, one not fit for purpose. And we have learned that this Foxling has some skill at least. I would not consider that unnecessary.¡±


    ¡°You are Desra¡¯s chosen. Pray tell us young Foxling. Why you?¡±


    Aodh turned away up to his right where another of the Princes now spoke to him. This was no elder. This one looked every inch the Pure Blood. His hair was a silver so fine it looked like it could be made into jewellery with the right tools. On his brow he wore a circlet, a single large emerald glowed in its centre, the glare of it highlighting the Prince¡¯s high cheekbones and perfectly aligned face. The name above his throne read Vayne.


    Aodh tilted his head slightly, ¡°For a contract such as the one you desire, I am best placed to fulfil it. My own skills are aligned with what is being asked of us.¡±


    ¡°You believe you have the skills necessary to travel beyond our Continent, over what you here name the Endless seas, to a land ruled over by the Dragonkin?¡±


    Aodh bobbed his head from side to side, ¡°More or less.¡±


    ¡°Convincing.¡±


    ¡°And what exactly did Desra tell you about this contract of ours? What do you know of it?¡±


    Yet another Prince questioned him, the inscription behind him read Presar.


    ¡°Only that I am to work as your spy of sorts. To gain information on the Dragonkin. How they are now organised and what it is they plan next. Though I¡¯ll confess, there is much I do not know about it. Desra told me himself that the other details would only be revealed to me upon arrival here. And here I am.¡±


    A few of the Princes began to argue once more in their tongue. Aodh had never wished to understand a language so much as he did now.


    This time the quarrelling did not last long. Prince Azareel seemed to end it. He turned back to face Aodh.


    ¡°There are some not pleased to see me?¡±


    The Elder smiled at his question, ¡°Nothing of the sort, we were only trying to decide whether or not your hair is red and black or black and red.¡±


    Aodh couldn¡¯t help smiling, the old Prince was surprisingly full of life. The Vampirii clearly were not all as haughty, cold and menacing as he¡¯d been led to believe.


    ¡°You have heard no doubt of what happened at Orbran.¡±


    A new Prince spoke down at Aodh, he looked more middle aged than young or old. A scar running from one side of his face to the other distinguished him from the others. Feergar, there was no mistaking him from Desra¡¯s descriptions.


    ¡°The Dragonkin have decided that one continent is not enough. Now they wish to make moves on this one also. We intend to combat that. Not only here, for here we are secure, but there also. But to do so we need information on them, something we have precious little of without any outpost on their lands. That is why we have need of you. You will be positioned within one of the DragonLord¡¯s domains as one of their Burned Men. Though we have attempted to do the same with thralls they have too much of us in them to avoid detection. It is our hope that you will be able to blend in as one of the servants. From there you must watch and listen, learn as much as you can about their movements, their leaders and any plans they may have in effect. When you are deemed to have information valuable enough you may return.¡±


    ¡°It is your hope?¡± Aodh shook his head, ¡°That means you are not sure? Are not the Burned men branded, made slaves to their DragonLord by that same DragonLord¡¯s flames. You don¡¯t think they will uncover me as they have uncovered others.¡±


    ¡°So you are aware of the Burned men,¡± Prince Vayne answered him, ¡°Good, that is a start. And you are correct of course. Which is why measures must be taken to ensure that you are a Burned man. In all but nature.¡±


    ¡°Meaning?¡± Aodh did not like his tone.


    ¡°Meaning that you will be given a spell to replicate the mark of the Dragon. A spell created from scales of one of the Dragons that escaped their defeat at Orbran. He won¡¯t be able to detect you amongst them. You will be human enough, and have his own genes enough to bypass his screening.¡±


    ¡°You are sure about that?¡±


    The Prince shrugged, smiling ¡°More or less. We are offering you the equivalent of a Kingdom, surely you understand that there will be some risks.¡±


    ¡°Some? Being stuck on the Dragon continent whil-¡±


    ¡°It is not the Dragon continent. They might hold it for now, but it is not theirs.¡± Vayne broke in.


    ¡°Fine, either way it is a great risk for me to be so far and so alone.¡±


    ¡°It will work. I give you my guarantee. And be aware though it is not a true burn, it will feel like one. A necessary aspect to ensuring the validity of the illusion.¡±


    ¡°So I will feel as if I¡¯m being burned by Dragonfire?¡±


    ¡°Yes.¡±


    ¡°This Kingdom you are offering better be a big one.¡±


    And Desra better make sure I get most of it after this. Burned by Dragonfire. It was not an experience he ever wished to have, even if it was not the real thing, feeling like it would be terrifying enough.


    ¡°You will need time to prepare, for the burning and for what to expect.¡± Azareel announced, ¡°For that you will remain here at Tralor for a few days of preparation. I am afraid that is all we can afford, the Forbidden Seas will soon freeze and we cannot wait until they thaw to set sail. Once you have been adequately informed and prepared you will be taken to the Coast where our ship awaits you. From there you will set sail for our homelands.¡±


    Aodh only nodded, it seemed he would have some days for questions at least. Though he wasn¡¯t quite sure a few would be time enough. Still, he was growing tired, so many red eyes staring down at him, as if into his very soul was exhausting. He wished to be away from their glare.


    ¡°You will be kept in the guest chambers, within the inner city. It bares little resemblance to any forest, or to your manor home I¡¯m sure. But it should suffice.¡±


    Aodh bowed slightly at Lusdan¡¯s words, though he picked up on the mockery in them he was keen not to show any anger. The Vampirii prided themselves on being above the other people of the continent, in both power, intelligence and everything else. Aodh however was determined to show that Foxlings at least were a people to be respected, ones who could control their emotions.


    Behind him he heard the great doors opening once more and Terva returned to guide him back out. Even before he had made his exit, fresh arguing broke out behind him. Not all it seemed were convinced by him, or the plan to send him as their agent to lands so far away. Aodh saw no reason to worry on that now. He was here to complete a contract,  if the Vampirii rejected that then he could not be to blame. Even Desra would understand that.

 Pale Moon Ball

    ¡°So that was the famous Council of Pure Bloods.¡± Aodh decided to speak first seeing that neither Terav nor any of his half blood guards had a mind to. ¡°Formidable.¡±


    ¡°The fate of the world is determined within that one Room, formidable then would seem a rather necessary requirement for them.¡±


    Aodh moved up beside Terav as he led the way back outside.


    ¡°Fate of the world? Though you are undoubtedly the most powerful beings on our continent, I am sure others might disagree.¡±


    ¡°Oh? Such as?¡± Terav asked.


    ¡°The Dragonkin.¡±


    ¡°The Dragonkin are being dealt with, and they are stranded a whole continent away.¡±


    Aodh said nothing at Terva¡¯s words. Stranded seemed an odd way of referring to those who had defeated and driven away the Vampirii from their homelands.


    ¡°Very well then, on this continent, the Dwaelven have strength still, what cities they do have fortified and well defended.¡±


    ¡°The Dwaelven?¡± Terav laughed, ¡°We have graciously allowed them to keep their cities solely because of our generosity. They create some pretty trinkets for decoration and forge strong arms for battle. Should we get bored of them they would be wiped out in a month. However well fortified or defended you might think them.¡±


    ¡°Very well then, evidently the world does lie in your hands. Seeing as it does then perhaps I might find someone to teach me a little of your language. I wish to learn some of it.¡±


    ¡°No.¡± Terav stated firmly, before Aodh could add anything else. ¡°We speak your common tongue, you have no need to learn ours. Nor in truth could you, ours is an ancient language, one of complexity and intricacy, far removed from that which you speak.¡±


    ¡°Still, I would like to-¡±


    ¡°No. What you would like does not matter. You won¡¯t be taught it.¡± Terav spoke softly but by his look Aodh saw it was not something worth pressing.


    Outside once more Terav led the way to where the wide avenues of palaces lay.  This time they took a different path, leaving behind the main road and taking one of those which broke away from it.  They strolled past palaces, moving away from the Council Chambers, the walk gave Aodh the opportunity to examine closer the extravagant homes of the Pure Bloods.


    Despite the walls which surrounded them and the guards patrolling outside them, they were clearly built not for defence but for beauty and pleasure. Full of eloquent and impressively manipulated stone which had been made into a vast ensemble of beasts, both strange and wonderful. They resembled none like Aodh had seen before, even within the palace walls the creations were all over, intricately designed and almost frightening in their detail. He made his way slowly, passing one great palace after the next. Though they were all also a deep black in colour they were not like the black stone buildings he had seen thus far.


    Each one seemed to glimmer and gleam before him. But he could not make out what caused them to radiate so intensely.


    Aodh was led to a palace, significantly smaller though still considerable in size, it was placed at the end of the row of palaces.


    As he got close he made out just what it and the others were constructed of and what it was caused them to shine so curiously. Black pearl. The entire building seemed to be made up of it. As ridiculous as that seemed, he had no doubt about that fact.


    It was stunning, the black pearls so perfectly put together that no line or blemish appeared on its surface.


    Though smaller it had a wall running all around it, and the gate which Terav opened to him was stout and well made. Two half bloods stood either side of it. They stepped aside for Terav and he gestured for Aodh to head in.


    ¡°This is to be your quarters. There are three thralls inside assigned to this palace. Should you need something then give a command, they will answer to you on our authority. All food and drink will of course be provided for you. Tonight you may rest, tomorrow you will begin your preparation for what lies ahead of you.¡±


    ¡°And what kind of preparation would that be?¡±


    ¡°That you will learn tomorrow, tonight is all you must worry about. And getting the rest you will need for that same preparation.¡±


    Aodh did feel tired, and was rather eager to be left alone again. After so long traversing through forest and field alone he felt almost bombarded with the amount of people he¡¯d spoken to and seen today.


    ¡°Then I shall go rest.¡± Aodh bowed to his guide. ¡°I presume I shall be here alone, yes? Apart from the thralls¡±


    ¡°Yes, though I suppose if you wanted another elegant lady thrall it could be arranged I¡¯m sure.¡±


    Aodh did not laugh at Terav¡¯s proposal, though the Count clearly found it funny he found the idea of sleeping with a cold, dead thrall as more than unappealing.


    ¡°Sleep will be all I need. Goodnight Count Azareel.¡±


    ¡°Goodnight Foxling,¡± Terav answered.


    Aodh made his way inside, he heard the click of the lock but ignored it. He had no intention of leaving in any case. He truly was tired.


    The palace was a place of luxury, he felt almost awkward surrounded by such extravagance. Such splendour for what is merely a guest quarters, Aodh reflected as he glanced about at the eloquent water features, the lifelike stone statues, the pure black pearl walls.


    Within the main dining hall he found the three thralls mentioned waiting for him. They stood still as statues. Aodh felt ill at ease in their presence. They made no move when he entered, but their dead eyes followed him. It was altogether unsettling. Aodh got the feeling it would have been far better to manage without such servants about him.


    He left them but wasted little time examining each of the rooms, merely scanning them before finding his bedroom. It alone was the size of the whole dormitory he had once stayed in at the Manor. The bed was as wide as a carriage and almost twice as long as he was. Making sure to lock his door he settled down into its black and velvet layers and instantly felt his tiredness more keenly. A good sleep was what he needed now more than ever. Already he had so much to take in and consider. By the words of the princes, the month¡¯s preparation would leave him with much more to attend to.


    He closed his eyes and breathed in deeply.


    Aodh awoke early, as he usually did. Yet when he went to his quarter¡¯s dining area he found the table had already been set and food laid out for him. All three of the thralls however stood exactly where he had last seen them last night.


    Ignoring the fact he was pleased with what was laid out before him. The food, just like his surroundings, was of the finest quality. Aodh had fine cuts of boar, deer and calf amongst a litany of berries and fruits to pick from. From what he knew the Vampirii had no need of food or drink, so having such fine affair again seemed perplexing. Yet he would not complain. It had been a long time since he had eaten so well, and so much.


    As good as the food was, it was the drink that truly created a sense of bliss for him. Tralorian wine was the most expensive, most exclusive wine on the continent, and for good reason. Whatever the Vampirii did there was nothing that could compare to the taste and scent of their vineyards productions. Though where they might be Aodh had no idea.


    Even finding a bottle outside of Tralor itself was not easy, generally costing the price of a small home to acquire. Only once had Aodh tasted it. Desra was more than fond of the wine. Though generally frugal, his taste for Tralorian wine was one indulgence he seemed to allow for. On rare occasions even sharing some of his collection with the others.


    To have a full bottle to himself then was dreamlike. Aodh savoured every taste. Finishing he sat back content. Tralor was growing more beautiful by the moment.


    It was difficult to tell just what time it was for Tralor had no sun for him to do so. The only source of light coming from the mysteriously prominent moon and its vivid glare.


    It was not long after he had finished his meal and wine when he heard knocking on his door. Dusting himself down Aodh had a quick glance in the mirror before making his way out.


    Hurrying over to the door he was surprised to find Prince Azareel smiling at him upon opening it.


    ¡°Ahh Aodh. I trust you are enjoying your quarters? And the food and wine along with it?¡±


    Aodh returned the smile, out of any of the Princes, he was glad it was Azareel that was the one to first call on him. Two younger looking vampires stood alongside him, though a little behind along with several warrior half bloods.


    ¡°Both are good, though it is the wine that I feel most grateful for.¡±


    The elder laughed, ¡°Indeed, I am not surprised to hear you say so. Our wine has provided a great deal of pleasure to a great many people. Your leader included I believe.¡±


    ¡°Certainly,¡± Aodh agreed, ¡°Perhaps it is from there that I got the taste.¡±


    ¡°Well, there will be time for more after. For now, I am here to begin your training of sorts. To inform you on what it is we do know about the Dragonkin. You will need every piece of help you can over there, thus it is paramount you learn all you can about them. Now then.¡±


    Ar led the way inside, brushing past Aodh.


    ¡°These two fine Princes are my sons, Yoven and Trendal.¡±


    Aodh bowed slightly to the two sons, and they did likewise.


    They appeared almost twins, both were brawny, muscular types. They were handsome yes, but heavy set, like their father they had a streak of dark brown in their hair. Yoven had it on the left, the Trendal on the right.


    ¡°They are my escort if you will, and here to make sure I don¡¯t forget anything.¡±


    ¡°It is a pleasure to meet you Foxling, both my brother and I plan on touring the continent, once things die down here a little. Whatever some of our compatriots might think, it is our own belief that we should know more of what goes on around us.¡±


    Precisely,¡± Trendal added to his Brother¡¯s words, ¡°the dragonkin will need aid if they are to attempt to take this continent from us. We will not allow that naturally, but it would be best we know who can be trusted should they come.¡±


    ¡°Wise,¡± Aodh nodded, ¡°even one small ally can turn a war. Though I do not think it would take much to dissuade someone going against your people. Even with Dragonkin involved.¡±


    ¡°Yes, well that is for another time. For now come, sit Foxling.¡± Prince Arval took a seat at the head of the table, ¡°So, perhaps you should begin. What do you know about the Dragonkin and their Burned men? You displayed some knowledge on the topic at the Council chambers, what else?¡±


    ¡°Little,¡± Aodh said sitting down, ¡°I know that there are DragonLords. Each one rules a kingdom of his own. I know that they are huge beasts, enough to cover a large town with their shadows. I know that they can change shape, transform into anything they so wish. And I know that they command vast armies of men, known as Burned men for the mark each DragonLord gives to those he takes control of.¡±


    ¡°Hmmm, well that is a start.¡± Prince Arval scratched his jaw,


    ¡°And what do you know of our own history with them?¡±


    ¡°I know that they¡­..¡± Aodh paused a moment, his hesitancy drawing laughter from all three of the Azareels.


    ¡°Relax Foxling,¡± Yoven smiled, ¡°we are not so easily offended, speak freely. What do you know?¡±


    ¡°I know that they defeated you, forced you to traverse the forbidden seas. To leave behind all you had and make you come here to this continent you now call home.¡±


    ¡°It is our continent, but it is not our home Foxling.¡± Arval shook his head, ¡°I was born on the continent beyond, and I will die there, come what may. Your answer is short but to the point, and it covers the important part. It is true, we were defeated, and here we now are, requiring a Foxling to gain intel on the place we once called our home. You no doubt realise that there are others, more than a few who aren¡¯t keen on us having Foxlings inside our walls. Or anyone for that matter. Yet we have little option left to us. We have tried everything else and nothing has worked. The Dragonkin are not easily deceived. To understand their inner workings we need to have someone inside their lands. You, with your human blood, will be that someone.¡±


    ¡°You heard before that it is necessary for you to receive a burn.¡±  Trendal gestured over his face, ¡°You will become a Burned man of the Dragon Cathach. He holds a minor Kingdom, but commands a considerable army of Burned men. One of those present at the attack on Orbran you will be placed within his city.


    He however is only one of the lesser Lords. The Dragons have divided the continent into 14 large realms, each one ruled by


    14 DragonLords. Besides them there are 28 others, they are known as lesser Lords. Two for each realm which rule dominions within it. You will naturally be focused on Cathach. But do try and learn what you can of the others, in particular Cathach¡¯s direct ruler, the Dragonlord Svetharv.¡±


    ¡°There are only 42 of them?¡± Aodh put his cup down, he had expected more. At least a hundred. Dragons or not they ruled an entire continent.


    ¡°Only 42.¡± Arval laughed, but it was a bitter laugh. ¡°You have never seen a Dragon, nor much less fought one. If you had, you would not say only. Do you know how difficult it is to kill something so large as to fill a city, so fast as to be like wind? They do not fall easily Foxling. Hope only that you never have to see them in battle, for should you see that then you will most likely be looking at your death. In any case, we refer only to their ruling class, it is likely there are several more we are not even aware of.¡±


    Aodh was a little surprised, he knew from tales what a Pure Blood could do, if one such as Arval held such respect for the abilities of the Dragonlords then they truly must be formidable. Despite the ominous warning, he couldn''t help feeling anxious to see for himself such prowess. It would be a fine sight, if an altogether deadly one.


    ¡°And what exactly am I to do there? As a burned man what will my role be?¡±


    ¡°Ah well that will be decided on arrival.¡± Yosen explained, ¡°the Dragonlords have all but used up the humans native to the continent, almost all of them bound to one of them or another. Therefore they need fresh subjects. Which is why we believe they are striving to break into this land. We know they have already taken from villages, towns far away from our patrols. You will be one of those humans. Those who accompany you on the ship will be responsible for getting you into the city. You will be given all you need to blend in as a city guard. It will be up to you then to convince your new Burned comrades of your legitimacy. Though your burn should do most of that for you. We took some of their Burned men at Orbran. We know already that they sometimes send patrols from one city to the next. You will be one of those guards sent to Cathach¡¯s city. Your company will be attacked along the way, by us of course. You will be the only survivor. You will claim that you and the others were beset upon by chimeras. Trust me they will believe it. Since the dawn age they have killed Burned men and before that our thralls too, in the thousands.¡±


    ¡°Chimeras?¡± Aodh frowned, ¡°What is that?¡±


    ¡°Only hope you never have to face one,¡± Yoven puffed his cheeks, ¡°They are everywhere on our continent. They have the heads and bodies of what you call lions, four horns like that of a goat, and a scorpions tail.¡±


    ¡°I see, well clearly you have this all thought out.¡±


    ¡°We do,¡± Azareel ignored the sarcasm, ¡°Though there will be much down to you. It will not be your combat skills most tested for this. Your contract is one of finesse and espionage, that only. Learn, listen and live amongst our enemy. What you return to us with will no doubt aid us greatly in what is to come. That is¡­¡± Arval smiled and wagged a finger at him, ¡°Should you survive. Good. Then, we will leave you for now. I think we have given the Foxling enough to think on.¡±


    ¡°More than enough.¡± Aodh rose to his feet with his guests.


    ¡°I would like for you to attend a dinner my brother and I are hosting tonight, at our House palace. There are many subjects of the continent we wish to discuss with you. Think of it as an unofficial welcoming Party.¡±


    ¡°I would be honoured,¡± Aodh was both surprised and pleased by Trendal¡¯s offer. Perhaps there he too could ask questions about the Vampirii.


    ¡°Very well then,¡± Trendal continued, ¡°we shall send someone over for you at the due time.¡±


    ¡°You are fortunate Aodh, few have ever attended a Pure Blood¡¯s Ball.¡± Arval winked at him as he made his way out, ¡°Make the most of it.¡±


    ¡°Ahh, a moment Prince.¡± Aodh got back to his feet and followed, though the two sons of Arval were present, this seemed as good a time as any to deliver his message.


    ¡°I have a letter. From Desra. He stressed that I should give it to you. And to you only.¡±


    Arval raised a brow but took the letter and quickly hid it in the folds of his flowing cloak.


    ¡°I shall read it as soon as I am back within my own palace.¡±


    WIth that they made their goodbyes. Aodh felt as if he had learned more in one conversation than he had in months, the information he¡¯d been given would no doubt be pivotal to his future contract. But more than that, he knew Desra would be greatly interested in learning all he could on it too. There was no piece of information on the Vampirii or Dragonkin too insignificant for him. All was documented, all he kept track of. He and the other Foxlings outside the Manor repeatedly reminded to buy and acquire any books or sources they found while on the road.


    Already he had much to tell.


    Aodh rested and waited for the evening. He had been left a dresser full of clothes to pick from. Yet they were all foreign to him. It was not often he was without his armour. Already he felt conspicuous in the presence of such beauty and extravagance. Not only for the fact that he was a Foxling, but for his rather inadequate level of style compared to his hosts. It was quite glaring. Though there was a wide selection to choose from Aodh decided to keep it simple, he had seen enough of the Princes to have an idea of their style.


    The Houses themselves each had their own colours, most from what he had seen were black or silver along with another colour, generally dark also. Since both seemed to be the most prominent colours within the city he went with a black and green ensemble. He only hoped he was not inadvertently displaying one House colours over the others.


    The outfit for the males at least consisted of a jacket, breeches and a vest, with a large elegant cloak that clasped around the neck to finish. All of which made Aodh feel constricted but he decided he should try and comply with the style of his hosts. Elegantly tailored it was as if each piece of clothing had been made for his exact size.


    If you spot this tale on Amazon, know that it has been stolen. Report the violation.


    Though he still felt out of place, after having a wash and shaving Aodh felt a great deal more confident once he was finally called to his door. There three household guards of Azareel waited for him. No words were spoken, in fact Aodh was not entirely sure they could speak. Every order he¡¯d seen issued by a Prince or Terav happening wordlessly. They merely stepped aside and Aodh was directed to walk between them.


    They passed back down through the palaces to where one of the larger ones stood shining a little brighter than the others. Though all of the palaces appeared similar at first glance there were differences in both style and design not readily noticeable at first glance. Azareel¡¯s Palace was made of the same black stone as the others, but now up close he could see veins of red flowing through the blackness.


    At this door his three guards left him for those evidently guarding the palace. The sound of many voices and music came to Aodh as soon as he entered inside the grounds.


    Here he was led through quite astounding gardens. Like all Foxlings, Aodh was well versed on the plants, herbs and flowers of the continent. He was quite astounded then to see whole groups and species of flora that he had never seen before, in person or in books.


    He didn¡¯t have time to admire, the two guards guiding him so close that he was forced to continue lest they run into the back of him. They only allowed him stop once he had reached the doors to what was clearly the great Hall. There, another half blood, dressed not for battle but as a steward awaited him.


    From here Aodh could look out into a huge and open ballroom. There were Princes and Princesses, Counts and Countesses everywhere, at least a hundred. Thralls, dressed identical to the three back at his own quarters, went about with great plates of food and drink. In the corner music was emanating from several strange lute-like instruments, again played by thralls. The scene was like that of a dream, full of beauty and glamour


    ¡°Ah yes, Ser Foxling. My masters wished for me to direct you to them immediately on your arrival. If you would be so kind as to follow me.¡±


    Aodh nodded, surprised by the polite tone and speech of the half-blood. What experiences he¡¯d had with others of their kind had always been unfavourable. Arrogant, overbearing and self-righteous he had never imagined one being so amicable. He was fast learning that those half bloods beyond Tralor were a kind of their own. Outside they acted with an impunity he had not yet witnessed within. It seemed the Pure Bloods had thralls and Half bloods for every purpose.


    Aodh made his way through the crowds after the steward, he did his best to keep his eyes to himself as he passed beauty after beauty. All he had seen before now paled in comparison to his first sight of female Pure Bloods. He forced himself to keep his eyes directed straight ahead.


    He had never even seen a female half blood, yet alone a pure blood. He knew that their beauty was something to behold, but even still he found the words taken from his mouth.


    The ladies before him were the most beautiful things he had ever seen in his entire life. Each one tall and sleek, but their body seemed far beyond perfect to him, indescribable visions. He wasn¡¯t sure if all the talk about just how beautiful the Vampirii Pure bloods were had affected him, but not in his wildest imaginations could he have ever pictured anything so flawless as the images that surrounded him. Even that which made them so different, their dark wings and almost silver skin and hair, it only added to the allure. They seemed almost sisters, only small differences seemed to separate them. It was impossible to tell just what age they were. All were bewitching however, he knew that.


    As he made his way deeper into the room his presence was noticed more and more of the Pure Bloods began to point him out.


    Aodh was led over to where both Yoven and Trendal were busy entertaining a group of about six other Pure Bloods. There were three females amongst them. Up close Aodh was mesmerised.


    ¡°Ahh Foxling, you have arrived. We were just discussing you,¡± Trendal clasped Aodh¡¯s arms and dragged him into the middle of the group.


    ¡°Allow me to introduce to you the Princes Intror, Rensra and Colwrath. And the Princesses Vensar, Lusdan and Lonedrar. Heirs and Heiresses all.¡±


    A little overwhelmed, Aodh attempted to acknowledge each of them one by one.


    ¡°You have no drink?¡± Yoven asked,  ¡°We shall need to change that.¡±


    Aodh was rather abruptly handed a glass of wine. He stared down at the cup of red. Tralorian wine, he knew.


    ¡°You like our wine?¡± One of the three females asked. She had distinctive purple hair, causing her to stand out quite dramatically.


    ¡°Hmmm¡­.¡± Aodh shook himself awake, surprised to find himself so affected, even in spite of their looks. He had thought himself prepared.


    ¡°The wine. You like it?¡± She smiled at him.


    ¡°Ahh the wine, yes. It is¡­exquisite. Like many things in this city.¡± He smiled at the Princess. Trendal had named her as Princess Vensar. Even amidst such beauty she stood out to him, her eyes held his and he had to force himself to look away. He could have easily imagined staring into them all night.


    You were discussing me?¡± Aodh turned instead to direct a question to Trendal trying to maintain a sense of levity.


    ¡°Ah yes, I was just saying how you were the human¡¯s greatest creations. Made by Alacrand himself if I am not mistaken.¡±


    ¡°I was no human creation, I was born after their destruction. But yes, it is true that the first of our kind was made through the Maegist Alacrand. He was the one responsible, though he never got to see more than one of our kind. Desra was the first and only Foxling he ever saw.¡±


    ¡°Yes, Desra.¡± Yoven clicked his fingers, ¡°He is the Leader I was telling you about. I assure you, Beastlings are quite an interesting subject.¡±


    ¡°How many of you are there?¡± One of the group asked, a young looking prince with close cropped silver hair much more modern than anything Aodh had seen so far.


    ¡°Us Foxlings?¡± Aodh shrugged, ¡°Perhaps five hundred now, though it is hard to say.


    Aodh took a long drink as he ignored the stares, five hundred might have been a little too adventurous a number, though he thought it better to go too high than to give the Vampirii his people¡¯s exact numbers.


    ¡°Five hundred. That is quite considerable,¡± another of the females present stated, one with light blue lips and blue eyeshadow decorating an elegant face.


    ¡°And you Foxlings work solely on contracts? As mercenaries for hire? You have no Kingdom of your own?¡±


    ¡°We are more than just mercenaries. We are trained killers, assassins. And all we do we do for the whole. Our entire people¡¯s history is not yet two hundred years old.¡±


    ¡°Little wonder then you are how you are.¡± She bit her lips, ¡°Wild, untamed. How exciting to see a culture and people so young.¡±


    ¡°And what of the Pure Bloods?¡±


    Aodh turned away from her, she looked at him the same way he looked at meat, and not in a good way. Her hunger looked solely on eating him then engaging in anything else. ¡°How many of you now exist?¡±


    ¡°Ahh, but that is not important Aodh Rua. Do not worry on such things.¡±


    Trendal¡¯s dismissal was somewhat frustrating but Aodh decided it best not to say anything. After all, it was his banquet.


    ¡°What of Tralor then? What do you make of it?¡± Blue lips asked.


    ¡°It is a wonder, of that there is no doubt.¡± Aodh did not like how self-content the Princess looked, asking her question, ¡°Though there are other wonders on the continent.¡± He added.


    ¡°Surely none that can contend with Tralor?¡± Yoven frowned at him.


    Aodh shrugged, ¡°Have you been to Vies Diem? A wonder of building and architecture. I would not say it is greater than Tralor but¡­.. I mean it is understandable after all. Vies Diem is a city that outlives Tralor by thousands of years. Little wonder then that it inspires such awe on viewing.¡±


    ¡°And Tralor doesn¡¯t?¡± Yoven seemed amused by Aodh¡¯s attempt to divert.


    Aodh feigned disinterest, ¡°No, no, it¡¯s wonderful, spectacular even, only¡­.¡±


    ¡°Only what?¡± Another of the Princes asked, Colwrath maybe.


    ¡°Well, the city is rather empty, no? In Vies Diem there are elves and dwarves naturally, but humans, satyrs and beastlings besides. It is a furnace of people and creation.¡±


    ¡°A furnace of crime and poverty maybe, we have no wish for Tralor to be polluted by such creatures.¡±


    ¡°I am a Beastling.¡± Aodh fixed his gaze on Colwrath.


    ¡°Yes.¡± The Prince finished his cup and reached for another. He smiled, ¡°I know.¡±


    Aodh smiled in return. ¡°Well perhaps you are right. Most of those creatures you mentioned could not live as you do. Like me, they wish to explore beyond the walls of their palaces. It never bores you? I must admit I would likely feel¡­.trapped in your situation.¡±


    The Prince Colwrath tutted and shook his head, ¡°Careful Foxling. Remember where and who you are. You are an instrument for us to carry out our goals, nothing more nothing less. An instrument. A tool.¡±


    ¡°So you admit that you need a creature like me to carry out your goals. There is humour in that.¡±


    ¡°Humour?¡± Colwrath moved so suddenly and with such speed that Aodh did not notice it until the Prince was right behind him. He felt the dagger tip pressed against his back and a small trickle of blood seeping down his back.


    ¡°You do not appear to know who it is you are talking to Beastling.¡±


    ¡°Oh tame yourself Calor.¡± The Princess Vensar looked at Colwrath with disgust, ¡°Must you be so dramatic.¡±


    ¡°Easy Calor, we are having a discussion.¡± Yoven took a step towards them, Trendal moved similarly.


    Colwrath let out a laugh and slowly moved his blade away, raising his hands in mediation he backed away.


    ¡°A jest, that is all. I merely wished to show our guest just what it is to be a Prince.¡± He looked to Aodh eagerly, with eyes wide, ¡°You understand now yes? Should I ever wish to do so, I could kill you a hundred times over before you could open your mouth. Before you could even utter a single word.¡±


    Aodh wiped a hand across his back, he smiled, ¡°Had I only one word I know what it would be. Dramatic.¡±


    He was pleased to hear laughter, Colwrath glancing at the others did join in, though his was too loud, forced.


    Trying to appear confident, Aodh found himself another drink. In truth however, he had been shocked by the ease with which Colwrath had moved into a position to kill him. He had been helpless. He is right, Aodh realised, ¡°Should any one of them want to kill me, then they could do so with ease. That thought was a sobering one.


    ¡°And what is it you people think of the Vampirii? Of us?¡±


    Aodh regarded Trendal closely, grateful for his question to break the growing and uncomfortable tension.


    ¡°You are the ultimate power. You control the continent. What is there to think about? Especially seeing as we so rarely see your kind abroad. When people think of Vampirii, it is the half bloods you send out that they imagine.¡±


    Yoven and Trendal nodded at his words and by the glance they cast to the group Aodh could tell it was an opinion both were aware of.


    Aodh picked up a dessert of some kind on a thrall¡¯s tray as it passed. ¡°Here is one thing I desire to know. Why this food and drink? From what I heard you do not need it?¡±


    Aodh¡¯s words brought out another chorus of gentle laughter.


    ¡°You are right Foxling, neither are something we need,¡± Trendal answered, ¡°though so the same is with alcohol for your kind yes? Though you do not need it you indulge in it, sometimes to a great extent?¡±


    ¡°Indeed,¡± Aodh finished his second cup, the wine was almost too good, he would need to have a care for how much he drank. ¡°Some more than others.¡±


    ¡°Precisely, well so too for us with food and drink. Though we are content and more than capable of living upon the thralls we have here with us, it is nice to have a change every now and again. Creates a sense of variety.¡±


    ¡°Variety?¡± Aodh raised a brow, ¡°I am sure it does.¡±


    Their conversation was interrupted by a commotion away to the left of them.


    Yoven clapped his hands and waved over to where a troupe of Azareel half bloods were entering the Ballroom. Four humans came with them, chained and in separate cages. In each cage was a human male and female.


    ¡°Ah yes, our entertainment.¡±


    Aodh frowned. The two cages were left down opposite each other, right in the centre of the room.


    The Princes and Princesses gradually dispersed to create a wide space around both the cages. Yoven waited patiently in the centre for all to be into position.


    ¡°Tonight we have a special spectacle. Here we have an evolutionary Battle, a war of the primitives.¡± Yoven¡¯s eyes shone bright red, ¡°But no ordinary Battle this. In honour of our Foxling¡¯s arrival and his imminent departure for the Homelands, we have procured two humans from those same lands. A couple. Just as we have acquired two humans, another couple, from this land. So, this is not just a battle of wills, but a battle of love. And of evolution. Which human has developed further? Those of our homeland, they are certainly stockier, stronger yes, more durable? Maybe. Or those humans who once went so far as to dominate these lands, tall, lean and with some level of thinking.¡± Yoven shrugged, ¡°I believe there is only one way to find out.¡±


    With a casual flick of his wings the Azareel Prince raised himself into the air and the ground below him began to fold in on itself.


    The floor transformed into walls for what was clearly a fighting pit down below. The cages and the part of the floor they resided on were lowered after. As they passed down Aodh finally got a chance to see those inside.


    The cage closest to him must have been that of the humans from the other continent. Aodh tried not to stare hard, there were two of them, dressed in extravagant black and red dress, a nod to the House perhaps. Though they were undoubtedly humans, they were not like any Aodh had ever seen. They were squat, with a heavy build. Their faces protruded out and their noses were much larger than any normal humans. They were shorter too, at least a hand shorter than most humans and both had long, wiry auburn hair that was far more prevalent on their bodies.


    In the cage opposite were two more humans evidently from Aodh¡¯s own continent. They were indeed tall and lean, the male had short blond hair and a fair complexion, the female had deep brown hair, long but tied at the back.


    Aodh would have thought that in such a circumstance both couples would have been almost paralysed with fear. The opposite was the case. The two males howled and tore at the bars as they were lowered down, seemingly sensing that the time of combat was near, while the females screamed and glared at each other. Aodh focused in on the eyes of both pairs of humans. Even at a distance he could see they were enlarged and bloodshot, they were salivating at the mouth and their bodies twitched and moved incessantly about their cages.


    ¡°What were they given?¡± Aodh asked Trendal beside him.


    ¡°Given?¡± The Prince did not take his eyes off the cages.


    ¡°To make them act that way?¡±


    Trendal shrugged, ¡°I don¡¯t know, they are human.¡± He gave a quick glance at Aodh, ¡°Without any genetic manipulation or ability. They act that way because it is in their nature.¡±


    Aodh frowned. There were few if any humans he had ever met that would act in such a way without something to make them do so. They are made to act as the Pure Bloods need them to, to be mindless savages they must act like mindless savages, Aodh thought. The Princes and Princesses spoke in hushed tones, but there was an obvious sense of excitement in the air. Not one seemed surprised by the spectacle nor the caged beings before them. Aodh was no stranger to fighting pits. He¡¯d seen men and beasts fight to the death. But this already felt different.


    Yoven glided over the cages, raising his hands high he surveyed over the entire room, waiting, building up the moment. Finally he gave a wave of his hand.


    Instantly the cage doors opened. Both men went charging out, no hesitation, no momentary pause to evaluate. Just a straight charge. They smashed into each other, drawing great roars from the crowd above. The women came after, but no less violently did they meet in the centre.


    There was no finesse, no strategy, it was brutal, savage. Exactly how the Pure Bloods intend, Aodh supposed.


    They had no weapons, the men rolled and wrestled, the smaller more robust other continent man was getting the best of it from what Aodh could see. As he watched the squat man manoeuvred himself on top and with hammer fists began to rain down blows on his stricken opponent.


    The ladies were no less fierce in their exchanges, each had gripped the other firmly by the hair but the taller female had raised herself above the other to scratch down at the exposed neck.


    Aodh turned away.


    He had no love for humans, he¡¯d seen many killed, and killed savagely. But they had been slaves destined for the fighting pits.


    They had some skill, some appearance of knowing what they were doing and why they were doing it. They were given weapons and names, it was bloodthirsty yes, but there were at least some boundaries. Not here.


    He knew humans of all beings were not deserving of pity. Still, he did not like to see such entertainment. The sounds of pained screams pierced through the air. Aodh peered down once more, he was eager for the affair to finish.


    The human more familiar to him had managed to crawl away from under his foe, the smaller squat human was holding his eyes. Blood seemed to be streaming out of them as he screeched out, his hands desperately trying to stem the tide. The taller male did not hesitate long, charging back before launching several kicks down on his now blind enemy. The smaller man fought on, though the pain must have been almost unbearable. Vainly he tried to get back to his feet, scrambling wildly in search of his attacker. The taller man easily sidestepped away and came behind to grab the man by the neck. With a savage wrench he snapped the man¡¯s neck before falling away from him. His own cries mixing in with the paralysed but evidently still alive smaller man.


    It took some time before the blind human stopped kicking, stopped fighting, stopped gurgling. But eventually he did.


    Aodh did not see how the females battle had played out, he only saw the squat woman standing alongside the taller female. Looking closer Aodh saw the marks around the lady¡¯s neck and the blood and cuts on the victorious female as she stood above her fallen rival.


    No time was wasted on seeing both duels brought to a conclusion.


    ¡°A draw. One for the humans of our own continent, and one for the humans of this. What now, shall they be freed?¡± Trendal gestured to the crowd, inviting on replies.


    ¡°Perhaps they should mate?¡± A voice called out.


    ¡°Rutting beasts, give them some wine and they are sure to follow through.¡±


    Laughter and general amusement filled the Ballroom. Worse than that however was the fact that many had already turned away. Bored already by the human slaughter, they sought out more drink and discussion, the fights nothing but a minor sideshow.


    Ignoring the clamour and shouting around him Aodh peered down.


    Both survivors were exhausted.


    Whatever they had been given was starting to wear off, that or the horrors of what they¡¯d just participated in had awoken them from their stupor. A wave of understanding seemed to wash over them. They both fell to their knees weeping, two different strands of human, male and female they acted with remarkable similarity.


    The Vampirii did not like that. Groans of disappointment and annoyance rang out around Aodh as the male began to crawl over to where the female was. According to Yoven, both of those killed had been the lovers of the two survivors. Yet they did not lash out now. Instead the male wrapped his arms around the smaller female and they wept, both consumed by grief.


    Mutters of disgust broke out.


    The humans were not supposed to act with any notion of civility, they were ruining the entire show.


    Trendal grimaced and wiped a hand across his face. With a hurried wave the doors of the floor began to close. He gestured off to the side and the music soon started up one more, the Princes and Princesses taking back the centre. It seemed as if the humans and their deathmatch had never happened.


    ¡°You don¡¯t approve Aodh?¡± Yoven¡¯s eyes were unblinking as he fell in alongside him, there was a challenge in them.


    ¡°I prefer to see real fights. Not untrained matches between two drugged up prisoners.¡±


    ¡°You feel for them?¡± Yoven asked. The idea seemed to surprise him. ¡°You, whose people were bred solely to serve as slaves to those same humans?¡±


    ¡°Not those humans. I do not brand them all the same.¡±


    ¡°Why? If one of their kind is capable are not all?¡±


    ¡°No, not all. Whatever you might think, humans have free will. They may, it¡¯s true, direct that towards evil, but they may also direct it towards good.¡±


    ¡°And in which direction do they most oft direct it? In what direction was it aimed for with Beastlings. Or with the Elves, Dwarves, Satyrs and Giants when they attempted to annihilate them? They had not one ally, but sought to destroy all.¡±


    ¡°Did you Vampirii not do the same?¡±


    ¡°No, we conquer, we rule. But we do not exterminate.¡±


    ¡°For some extermination would be the preferred.¡±


    ¡°For some, but not most. Most are not near so brave as that. Whatever songs they might sing.¡±


    The sound of the music rising interrupted anymore of their discussion, it rose quite suddenly and the ambient atmospheric tones of before were replaced now with a powerful if elegant orchestra of noise.


    With a great deal of decorum and elaborate movements both the Princes and Princesses began to meet at the centre.


    ¡°Ahh, it is time for dance. Come Foxling, let us find a partner.¡±


    Aodh waved his cup, ¡°I have a worthy one already.¡±


    Yosen laughed, ¡°Then we will have to continue later, for now I must dance.¡±


    Still smiling, Yosen left Aodh to make his way onto the dancefloor, a few Princesses already seemed to be waiting for the handsome heir to House Azareel.


    More used to tavern jigs than any formal dance, the scene was a pretty if unusual one for Aodh.  He watched on as most of the Ball¡¯s attendees took to the floor, though some remained at the edges focused instead on drinking and discussion.

 A Princess

    Aodh finished his drink and quickly found himself another cup. He had decided he might as well indulge a little, he felt it needed after what he¡¯d just witnessed in any case. Such sadity amidst the glamour and opulence did not sit well with him, though it was not as if he could protest it. Not too vocally in any case.


    ¡°You aren¡¯t dancing?¡±


    Aodh looked around and was very pleasantly surprised to see Princess Vensar regarding him.


    ¡°As of yet, no.¡± Aodh raised his cup, ¡°I find myself quite engaged in other pursuits.¡±


    ¡°It is a worthy one.¡±


    Aodh turned to face her, ¡°Princess Vensar, yes?¡±


    ¡°Ah how flattering, you remember.¡±


    ¡°Some are easier remembered than others. And how then should I call you?¡±


    ¡°Why Princess Vensar naturally, what else?¡± She frowned, but there was a playfulness underneath her feigned formality.


    ¡°I was hoping to be on more personal terms with you.¡±


    ¡°Why?¡±


    ¡°Personal suggests closeness.¡±


    ¡°So you wish to be personal and close to me?¡±


    ¡°There are worse things to wish for.¡±


    She pursed her lips and her eyes narrowed.


    ¡°Princess Leniseh.¡±


    ¡°Leniseh. I will remember that.¡±


    ¡°Yes,¡± Leniseh took a drink from her own cup, ¡°Make sure you do. Tell me Aodh Rua, you have been with many females, of your kind and others?¡±


    ¡°I,¡± Aodh spluttered, spilling a bit of wine, the question was not one he¡¯d been anticipating. Leniseh didn¡¯t seem to notice his


    embarrassment however and just looked at him expectantly.


    ¡°I¡­well¡­ Yes, I suppose I have had more experience than most. And of more than one people.¡±


    ¡°Which people?¡±


    Aodh gulped down his drink, ¡°Which people?¡± He puffed out his cheeks, he felt as if he was losing the conversation, ¡°well my own kind, Foxlings. Our ladies are well known for their beauty.¡±


    ¡°And?¡±


    ¡°And?¡± Aodh shrugged, ¡°Humans. They can be very pretty. Though they can also be very ugly. Elves, they are perhaps my favourite, very elegant, dainty but¡­.¡± Aodh broke off, realising he was speaking a little too freely, that and another Prince and Princess had gathered around to listen to his ramblings.


    ¡°Dainty but?¡± Leniseh pressed.


    ¡°But¡­..but with substance.¡± Aodh finished somewhat hesitantly.


    ¡°Hmmm, and us? What do you make of Pure Bloods?¡± the Princess who¡¯d walked over asked him.


    Aodh gave her his best smile, ¡°Well for that I would need to lay with one Princess. I would not dare to give an uneducated opinion. With the most beautiful of them preferably¡±


    She rolled her eyes at his own, ¡°How base.¡± Yet she did smile, ¡°without laying with one you can still have thoughts no?¡±


    ¡°Oh yes,¡± Aodh responded, ¡°All kinds of thoughts. Princess¡­


    ¡°Serah, of House Tornn.¡±


    ¡°Serah,¡± Aodh repeated, taking her pale hand in his and offering it a kiss. She laughed at him, Princess Serah was not unlike Leniseh, though her eyes were not so big, and less round. They were no less appealing for that however.  The two looked about the same age, though what age that might be Aodh had no idea. Twenty or one hundred and twenty, Pure Bloods did not age quickly. Serah however had long black hair interspersed with green to Leniseh¡¯s deep purple.


    Aodh was aware he was sporting the colours of House Tornn from both the Princess¡¯s dress and hair.


    ¡°Do you always remain in your human form? I believe seeing you in your beast form might be of some interest.¡± Leniseh asked, she moved over, causing Aodh to step away from Serah.


    ¡°We use that only when needed, in battle.¡±


    ¡°Pity, I would like to see it.¡±


    ¡°What of you and the humans Foxling?¡± A Prince put in quite aggressively, one with a long scar running across his face just like Prince Feergar at the Council meeting, his heir perhaps. That both had almost identical scars was confusing.


    ¡°Though you are a half one,¡± Prince Feergar continued, ¡°you don¡¯t consider yourself to be one I take it? You Foxlings were originally created by them to serve you in matters of war were you not?¡±


    ¡°That is true,¡± Aodh nodded, ¡°though only the first of our kind ever served them in such a way. And he only for a short period, before the war¡¯s end. As soon as the moment arose for hi  to break free he did so, and created a dynasty that has grown powerful. I and all the others of my kind have never served anyone but ourselves. We do what is needed and best for the whole, that is all.¡±


    Aodh was surprised to find himself so passionate in his rhetoric, he sounded almost like Desra, and not in a way he liked.


    ¡°You have no ambitions of your own then?¡± Feergar asked.


    ¡°I have. Many. But the Dynasty comes first. In most matters at least.¡±


    ¡°Ahhh this is my favourite,¡± Serah looked over towards the musicians, before taking Aodh rather forcefully by the arm.


    ¡°You dance, yes?¡± She asked.


    ¡°Oh I am not yet re-¡±


    ¡°Do not worry, I¡¯ll guide you.¡±


    Aodh had little choice but to be led alongside her, though delicate and petite looking, the strength of Serah¡¯s grip was enough that Aodh was unsure whether he could have broken free without her say so. Resigning himself to his fate, he cast a quick glance back. He thought he saw a flicker of annoyance on Leniseh¡¯s face. Though it was only a flicker, and he had been led away before he could be sure.


    He turned his focus to the Princess, he¡¯d had worse dance partners. She wore an incredibly light, tight black dress. The shape of her body in the dress aroused him more than he liked. Such feelings along with wine usually bode poorly for his decision making. Still, no use worrying about that now. How often will I be in the presence of so many Princesses?


    ¡°You must know something?¡± Serah grinned at him as they found a place amongst the other couples.


    ¡°A little, though not much, and I have never danced with a Princess. What exactly is dancing to a Vampir? I presume it involves this?¡±


    Aodh wrapped a hand around her shapely waist. She smiled at the act, laughing she put his other hand upon her shoulder.


    ¡°A fine start. Now, just follow my lead, I shan¡¯t go fast.¡±


    WIth simple steps she guided him, thankfully she did move slowly, though he never liked to admit the fact, Aodh did share some enjoyment for dancing. With Serah on his arm that enjoyment was almost significant. As they continued Aodh felt a little more comfortable, the dance was not so different from an aristocratic elven waltz. And he¡¯d danced that before.


    Serah was a good teacher, as he grew more comfortable she guided him further and further out into the dancefloor. Soon they were amongst the middle of the party, Aodh saw Trendal and his partner on one side of him, and he couldn¡¯t fail to notice Leniseh and her partner on another. He focused only on Serah. Now more confident he was willing to actually look up and into her blood red eyes. They glittered in the green candlelight, casting an almost hypnotic glare. She however looked around constantly, and more than once over at Leniseh. Aodh paid no mind to that, he gripped her waist a little tighter and drew her in closer. She seemed surprised by that but smiled and drew her face in towards him.


    ¡°You dance well Foxling. You make a fine partner.¡±


    Aodh leaned in with her, her face rested almost on his shoulder,


    ¡°In dance, and in other areas too.¡±


    She pulled back and made a look of feigned shock. ¡°Other areas? How intriguing, I may have to test that theory.¡±


    The break in song corresponded with a change in partners, Aodh however felt Serah holding him closely, ¡°I think I will sta-¡±


    ¡°I will borrow the Foxling Serah, after all there are many Princes awaiting your hand.¡±


    ¡°Oh yes Leniseh, though I¡¯m sure you can keep my suitors content while I¡¯m engaged, I wish to stay with the Foxling.¡±


    ¡°Aodh.¡± Aodh put in, the Foxling was fine, but he did have a name.


    He felt rather in the middle of the two Princesses, yet he also felt as if he himself was not so much their desire but what he represented. He admittedly was not over concerned by that.


    ¡°What you wish,¡± Leniseh¡¯s smile was rather forced, ¡°is irrelevant, decorum dictates that partners alternate. You would not go against decorum would you Serah?¡±


    Serah had not let go of Aodh and seemed like she was in fact willing to go against decorum. Yoven thankfully approached to intervene, ¡°Princesses, the next dance is about to begin. Serah if you please, Prince Marresda wants to have this next dance with you.¡±


    Serah looked over to the Prince Marresda, Aodh did likewise, and even he had to confess that the Prince looked quite splendid in his all black attire. Slowly Serah let him go, ¡°I shall be back for you after Foxling, you will have to dance with Leniseh for awhile, I am sure you will have fun with her, she shows all the Princes a good time.¡±


    Leniseh stepped in abruptly as the music picked up causing Serah to stumble a little, ¡°Thank you Serah, now hurry on, I will look after the Foxling from here.¡±


    Aodh was again surprised by the strength of Leniseh as she took his hands in hers and led him away.


    ¡°I am sorry about Serah. She cannot abide anyone having something she does not, and thus she acts as she does. She did the same with the elven ambassadors.¡±


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


    ¡°Elven ambassadors?¡±


    ¡°Oh nothing, nothing,¡± Leniseh shook her head and offered him a smile. ¡°Here, you may put your hand a little lower. There, yes that¡¯s it. Serah is a poor dancer in truth, but we won¡¯t worry about that. Or her.¡±


    Aodh was not sure he liked how she was speaking, nor the force of her grip as she pulled him from one side to the other. However as they danced further she seemed to relax. And as they moved so too did her dress and body. The sight caused him to forget the slight tension in the air, soon Leniseh was taking up all his eyes and focus. By the end of their third song together she was even laughing, and it seemed to Aodh real laughter.


    He was enjoying the dancing, but desired a break. And a drink, his lips were dry, and seemed even more so when he looked at Leniseh¡¯s.


    ¡°A drink Princess? I would feel honoured to share one with you. That and it will allow me the opportunity to learn more about you.¡±


    ¡°You wish to know more about me?¡±


    ¡°I wish to know all about you.¡±


    Leniseh laughed, ¡°Then come, I believe we will need more than just one drink for that.¡±


    Aodh picked up another cup as they headed off of the dance floor.


    ¡°Ah no, no.¡± Leniseh took Aodh¡¯s cup from him, ¡°That one is not for you I¡¯m afraid, you must stick to the wine.¡±


    She stopped, ¡°Unless¡­.do you enjoy blood? Perhaps as a Beastling the taste is-¡±


    ¡°I will stick to the wine I think.¡± Aodh smiled and found himself a fresh cup, carefully checking its contents this time.


    ¡°Blood is not really my thing.¡±


    The banquet was in fine flow by now. Everything was all still stylish, graceful, but the volume and animation on the faces and bodies of the Princes and Princesses had increased noticeably.


    Aodh kept his hand in Leniseh¡¯s as they found themselves thrust into the middle of another conversation.


    Quite an animated one by the faces of Pure Bloods involved in it.


    ¡°Whoever risks most should gain most. Is that not natural?¡± Prince Feergar was remonstrating to the group, ¡°if we are to take back our lands then there will be great risk involved. I know as you do that not all Houses are willing to take those risks. Those that aren¡¯t can hardly expect to receive what those who are willing to will.¡±


    ¡°They are not willing to take risks because it is precisely because of risk taking that caused us to end up on this continent in the first place. We cannot be hasty, foolish.¡±


    Feergar scowled at his rival''s words.


    ¡°Sounds like some Houses are too content to remain here. This is not our Home. And never will be. We must not prioritise what we have here over what was once ours.¡±


    ¡°Dreaming is all well and good, but do no not let it stand in the way of reality. While some Houses dream, others actually ensure we maintain and build on the power and lands we do have.¡±


    ¡°Who cares about the power and lands we do have here. All of our cities, all of our history lies beyond. We fled here for good reason I grant you, we needed to. To recover and recuperate. But soon it will be time for us to return. And return we must. I only hope you do not forget that.¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t lecture me Feergar. I know our history. Do not try and put yourself forward as some brave hero. Your House is no greater than any other, whatever you might think. We bled just as you did.¡±


    ¡°Then I am sure you will be willing to bleed again.¡±


    ¡°If it should come to it then yes.¡±


    ¡°IF it comes to it? There is no if. It will come to it, has to. It must be our only focus. You think because you hold more power here that it should be our new Home forever. You might have bled, but my House lost far more in the defence of the continent. Remember that when next you vote against my Family¡¯s proposals.¡±


    ¡°Times change Feergar, as does power. We will not vote against you when your Father stops putting forward proposals to try and force your House into my own¡¯s successful affairs.¡±


    ¡°Watch your tongue, Hovenra. Our House had established cities when yours were still merchants. Know your place when you speak to me.¡±


    ¡°Live in the past then, it is only there where your Family holds any weight. You hang onto your prestige now through pity. If I was your Father I would be embarrassed to see my Hou-¡±


    Too quick for Aodh to fully see Feergar lashed out. Hovenra however had clearly expected an attack. Avoiding the blow he elegantly stepped back. Feergar showed no sign of frustration but launched into another attack. Leniseh pulled Aodh back as he tried in vain to follow what was happening.


    He lost sight of both for a few moments before they appeared almost out of nowhere over away to the right of him.


    Feergar had gotten his hands on Hovenra, he now stood over him and was attempting to free his hands. As Aodh watched he saw one strike get through at least.


    It was broken up as suddenly as it started, Trendal, Yoven and a few fellow Princes stepping in to intervene and pull apart the two combatants.


    Though bloodied Hovenra smiled all the while as he was led away to the other side of the Hall. Feergar clearly desired to inflict more damage, he continued to struggle in the arms of those holding him back as he was dragged away to the opposite side.


    ¡°A pathetic display of emotion.¡± Leniseh whispered alongside him. ¡°Though then again, Hovenra should not have mentioned Feergar¡¯s father so crudely, that too was in poor taste it must be said.¡±


    ¡°Are the rivalries always so vicious amongst you?¡±


    Leniseh shrugged, ¡°That one at least. An old rivalry well set in. House Feergar was once far more prominent before our defeat by the Dragonkin. They look down on those newer Houses who suffered less and gained a great deal more when we moved to this continent. There are Houses in both camps.¡±


    ¡°And yours?¡±


    Leniseh stopped and turned to look at him slowly.


    ¡°Mine? We do not take sides. Though I¡¯ll admit I can understand Feergar¡¯s frustrations.¡± She sighed, ¡°A lot has changed since we left our home. The power struggles however are something we took with us.¡±


    ¡°With all this chaos now might be a good time to make our departure.¡± Aodh glanced at her, ¡°I would be happy to walk you back to your palace.¡±


    Leniseh laughed, ¡°Walk me back? Do you think you have such freedom? Three guards await you outside. Besides, we can not be seen together outside these walls. My parents would have my head for such indiscretion.¡±


    ¡°Best make sure they don¡¯t see you then.¡±


    ¡°You think I wish to go back with you?¡±


    ¡°You don¡¯t?¡± Aodh leaned in.


    ¡°You Foxlings are quite unusual. Nothing like the dwarves or elves we¡¯ve had here before.¡±


    ¡°Is that a good thing?¡±


    ¡°I am not yet sure.¡±


    ¡°Well that settles it, you¡¯ll have to spend a night with me to decide on it.¡±


    ¡°Oh yes? Well, I suppose I should get to know you better, seeing as you are to work for us, it is important we know your worth.¡±


    ¡°Good, for I do plan on showing you all of my worth tonight. Just as I hope to see yours likewise.¡±


    Things seemed to be dying back down, most of the guests were back dancing, drinking and making discussion again. Leniseh had one final look before pulling Aodh away.


    ¡°Come, Foxling.¡±


    With that they made their way out, taking a side door few if any paid attention to them as they left. Most of the guests seemed to be more than merry by now, either on drink, or more likely on blood.


    When they finally made their way back outside Aodh saw that three warriors were indeed waiting. All of them stood to attention at his and Leniseh¡¯s approach.


    ¡°The Foxling is in my care. I shall take him back to his palace. You may follow at a distance.¡±


    The guards made no sign that Aodh could see that they¡¯d heard the Princess. Yet all three stood back to let her pass.


    ¡°Follow me. They will do as I say. They are to guard you and ensure you do not go anywhere you are not supposed to. Once we are in your palace however you will be free to move wherever, and however you like.¡±


    Aodh smiled at her expression, there was a sense of danger about the Princess, and knowing she could kill him in an instant was an admittedly strange realisation. But her looks, her eyes, and her body were all more than enough to make him forget all that. He¡¯d never wanted anything so badly as he wanted her in that moment.


    The half bloods did indeed only follow them at a distance. Aodh and Leniseh were left virtually alone as they made the short walk back.


    He held her hand in his. Aodh suspected the reason for her returning with him was as much to stop Princess Torn doing so as anything else. Still, there was something about Leniseh he liked. Even aside from her looks, though he knew that they made up a good deal of it. Even amongst so much beauty Leniseh stood out for him. Best she did not know that though, she already held too much over him.


    Two more guards waited by his door.


    Aodh felt the volume of guards for just him alone was a little extreme. But perhaps he should have felt esteemed by it. Someone obviously felt him a potential threat. He rather enjoyed that realisation.


    Leniseh opened the doors with a wave of her hand.


    ¡°See to it we are not disturbed.¡± She added to those at the door as they made their way inside.


    Aodh tried again to hide his surprise at seeing such casual magic. They went into the dining rooms where the three thralls as always stood motionless and unblinking. Aodh avoided their eyes, he knew that once a human had been made a thrall they ceased to be human, and never could be one again. Their whole body bound to that of the Pure Blood who¡¯d taken them and their only way out being the death of that Pure Blood. Still, mindless or not they still looked human, and to see them used as such throwaway slaves, blood vessels for feeding was not something he felt altogether comfortable with.


    And what could I do about it? A lone Foxling. Would a human care if I was similarly bound? It is not for me to be comfortable with.


    ¡°Do you want a drink?¡± Leniseh took him from his thoughts.


    He shook his head, ¡°I have enough of drinks, for now I want something else.¡±


    He came up and placed his arms around her waist.


    ¡°It is something I have wanted since I first saw you in truth.¡±


    She pursed her lips, ¡°Since you first saw me? My, I am flattered, perhaps I should-¡±


    Aodh drew her in for a kiss. She pulled back at first, surprised by his forwardness. But only for a moment. Then it was her kissing him. Aodh lifted her up, grabbing her legs and carried her back to his room. She giggled in his arms, Aodh couldn¡¯t resist kissing her again, causing him to almost stumble by the bed. He was forced to almost throw her onto it but she didn¡¯t mind.


    He looked down on her, and watched with growing excitement as she slowly removed her dress and delicately allowed it to drop to the floor. Aodh was not so delicate, hurriedly he tore off his shirt and went to her. He kissed her lips, so red, soft and tempting. The passion seemed more intense with her than it had ever been with anyone else. He breathed in deeply as he moved to her neck, her breathing increasing as he did so. She took her hand and wrapped it around his head and he began to move slowly downwards.


    He savoured every moment. He could not have imagined the night ending so well as this.


    A pureblood Princess, Aodh lay back smiling. He could not help it. Beside him Leniseh lay still sleeping. She looked beautiful even now.


    Aodh placed a hand to his neck, when he pulled it back only a little blood came with it, mostly dried. Leniseh had not given him any warning before she¡¯d bitten his neck. It had not been so bad. It had only hurt a little and for a moment. The sight of his blood on her lips had been an unsettling one, but what she had done after that had caused him to forget all about it. He shook his head and exhaled quietly as he looked over at her once again. Whatever came next, for now, he was glad it was he, and not one of his Brothers who¡¯d been given the Vampirii contract. As Leniseh rolled over beside him he felt the contract was going quite well so far. He kissed her softly and rested back under the covers. For this night at least.

 Illusion

    When he awoke the moonlight was already shining in through his windows, turning over he was a little surprised to find it empty. He thought Leniseh would at least have wished him farewell.


    Yawning he got himself up and ready. Breakfast was again laid out for him, perfect and abundant. Hungry, he sat down to eat, he contented himself with just the one glass of wine, though his own body metabolised alcohol far quicker than that of a normal human, it was still best he not indulge too much. Trendal had mentioned something about training last night. Whatever that was Aodh wanted to be ready.


    He did not have to wait long to be called upon. This time there was no Prince at his door, but more of the city guards. As was becoming custom they stepped aside for him to head out. Aodh followed the one in front.


    They led him away from the palaces to an area more populated than the rest. Here Aodh saw a host of Temples, all unfamiliar to him and none similar to any he had ever seen on his travels. He guessed them Vampirii Deities, Beings no one knew anything of. Even Desra.


    They moved past all of them however and instead made directly for what looked like an amphitheatre. The sound of fighting could be heard inside. Within Aodh was taken out onto the arena proper. Looking around he saw it was not overly big. It could have held a few hundred spectators, but not much more than that.


    At the centre there were several Pure Bloods surrounding a pair who were locked in swordplay. Aodh was guided to the group but then forced to a stop on the edge with a tap of a spear. Looking around, he recognised Prince Vayne standing directly opposite him, he seemed to be the oldest of those present. The Prince only had eyes for the fighting and Aodh joined in with him and all the rest whose focus was firmly directly upwards.


    He recognised both from the banquet. One he knew came from House Mezal, the other¡¯s he was unsure of but he remembered him standing out because of his size. He must have been seven foot and his arms and muscles bulged even in his armour. Of House Yadwe maybe.


    They both carried twin swords, but their styles were evidently opposites. While the bigger Prince favoured heavy strikes and was obviously comfortable on the attack, Mezal moved with every blow, he too appeared comfortable, though in defence. They looked quite deadlocked. The speed was frightening, more than once Aodh lost sight of sword and even the wielders themselves.


    With a sudden twist, Prince Mezal launched himself up, his wings unfurling instantly to send him flying out of danger. The larger Prince only waited a moment before doing just the same, charging up after him. Whatever hope he¡¯d had on the ground, Aodh found it even more of a challenge to follow the fight above it. He looked on wide-eyed, he had always thought Foxlings fast, and considered himself to be also. Now however the true speed and strength of the Princes was being laid bare before him.


    Once more he hoped never to have to face one in combat.


    The two combatants flew back and forth over them, eventually however the larger got the upper hand. Pushing in close he lashed out with a savage backhand.


    Aodh looked around in shock as the larger Princes blade slashed deep across Prince Mezal''s shoulder. He went spinning down, landing with a hard thud on the ground, barely managing to use his wings to halt his sudden descent.


    As the larger Prince landed down victorious Aodh looked on in confusion as Mezal lay blood-splattered on the ground before him. The black blood came gushing out of the significant wound but even as he watched it began to subside and very quickly stopped. Frowning Aodh was about to question just how he could heal so rapidly when his eyes found the Prince''s swords. Now out of his hands they slowly crumbled until there was nothing left but dust.


    Clearly the swords were intended solely for training, blades magically altered to allow for a fight as close to reality as possible. The wounds no doubt likewise magically created to emphasise one¡¯s mistakes. All no doubt highly effective for training one¡¯s skills. Such techniques would be of great use to the Manor if he could ever convince the Vampirii to allow them. Though even as the thought crossed his mind he dismissed it. The Pure Bloods were not for sharing.


    ¡°Mezal you have been told.¡± Prince Vayne shook his head as he came to help the young Prince up. ¡°You must not only work backwards, you have to attack when you see opportunity to do so. You will not hurt him enough to keep him off you. Eventually he will break through. And you Renda, your attacks were well placed. But do not be so reckless, were Maran more aware he would have found your neck as you flew after him. Press the attack but circle up to him, do not always go so direct.¡±


    Vayne glanced over at Aodh. ¡°We have done enough for this morning, we¡¯ll continue later. Return to the palace and see to it you find your studies. You will be tested.¡±


    The young Vampirii left the older Prince with bows and a great deal of reverence Aodh saw.


    ¡°Ah Foxling,¡± Prince Vayne gestured for the guards and they retreated back to the edge of the arena.


    ¡°You are likely wondering why you are here? Do not be alarmed, we will not be fighting.¡±


    ¡°I wouldn¡¯t mind if we were. It would be an honour-¡±


    ¡°No. No it wouldn¡¯t I assure you. Neither for you nor for me. You are here because you will need to blend in if you are to have any hope of surviving within Cathach¡¯s city. His Burned men will have trust in their Ruler¡¯s ability to detect any intruders, and you will bear his mark. But it is essential you do all you can to avoid suspicion. I have fought many Burned men. I have killed thousands and I know them more than anyone. I will teach you how to be one, to stand, fight and look like another of the Dragonlord¡¯s soldiers.¡±


    ¡°You wish to train me? Forgive me, but I believe I can replicate the moves of slave soldiers. I can manage.¡±


    ¡°You think there is a choice. Do you know how much we are risking even getting you to the Dragon lands? You will do as we say. As I say. Now draw your sword and take this shield. I will show you how to wield both as they do. We¡¯ll move on to the spear after.¡±


    ¡°You will show me how to wield a sword?¡± Aodh laughed and raised his hands. He might have been more approachable to the idea of training for his future mission, but the Prince¡¯s attitude annoyed him. He already wanted to be away from the place.


    ¡°Listen Prince, I may not be a Pureblood Vampir, but I know how to wield a sword.¡±


    ¡°I know. I watched you fight Lusdan¡¯s half blood. You move well, and fight well. But you will need to reign in each one of your natural instincts, to realign your body to be in sync with those you will soon call comrades.¡±


    ¡°You saw me? How?¡±


    ¡°From above, I did not need to be close to it. I saw all I needed.


    You are fast, too fast for a human. These Burned men are still that, still human in many ways. They are strong, reliable. They are moved by their training and endless drilling. They move as one unit, a methodical, functional machine. You will need to do likewise, to move as if you were one of many, not an individual.¡±


    Aodh sighed, ¡°You believe this necessary?¡±


    ¡°Yes. You must arouse no suspicions. The Burned Men are many pieces of Cathach¡¯s mind. What they think so too can he. Should they suspect you then so too will he. We will do all we can to prepare you and your disguise, it will be convincing. But were he to examine you closely then it would not take him long. And once Cathach detects you, well¡­.¡±


    ¡°Then I either kill a DragonLord, or I die.¡±


    The Prince raised his brows, ¡°No or. You die. That only.¡±


    Aodh wiped a hand across his eyes. ¡°The sword first then?¡±


    ¡°The sword first. And shield.¡± With a casual flick Vayne tossed him a shield lying next to him. Aodh caught it with one hand and was surprised to find himself almost stumbling.


    ¡°It¡¯s heavy.¡±


    ¡°As we give our thralls some strength, however small, so too do the Dragonkin to their own Burned Men. They are human, though with some bit extra. Now, move as I do. No, not sideways, forward. Imagine there are a thousand men either side of you. You are covering their left and they are covering yours. Yes, like that.¡±


    Vayne had not lied, the curbing of his more natural instincts was indeed a challenge. Aodh knew he was supposed to remain in place, just another one of many. But the style was so alien to him, so much different from everything that he¡¯d ever been taught that it took far more time than he would have imagined before he felt confident replicating Vayne¡¯s own movements. He for his part moved with a grace and fluidity that was at odds with what he was instructing him. Yet when he needed to he perfectly demonstrated the strict, tight steps of a compact soldier.


    Despite the strangeness of having to slow down his strikes, of having to make them more predictable and formal, Aodh soon began to enjoy the work. It had been a long time since he had practised in such a deep way. He focused on Prince Vayne, he moved as he did and became more comfortable with both shield and sword in hand. By the time they were finished he felt he was indeed moving more as a soldier than assassin, he still longed to add to the single thrusts and swipes but if he was to be a Burned man that would not to. To protect the whole he must sacrifice anything deemed a risky attack. He quickly began to understand that. Though he didn¡¯t like the style, it was enjoyable learning a new one. Prince Vayne was curt, but his criticism was always followed by worthy instruction. By the end of their training Aodh had almost come to enjoy the Prince¡¯s constant directions and commands.


    After a last slow march across the grounds, thrusting, jabbing as if in a shield wall Vayne nodded and waved Aodh over to sit down.


    Aodh followed him, thankful to be out of the morning moon¡¯s glare. Already the lack of sun was becoming familiar to him. He could quite easily discern the difference between the early and later moons. Vayne did not seem in the least perturbed by their training, not a single strand of his long silver hair was out of place.


    The half blood guards too had not moved. They remained standing in one position, oblivious to fatigue. He was grateful when the Prince motioned for one to approach them. Aodh was handed a water flask, thirsty, from both training and the night before, he drank deeply.


    ¡°It is only a start, you will need to continue to drill the same moves over and over again. But you will manage.¡±


    Aodh nodded, ¡°They will not detect me for my use of their weapons I assure you.¡±


    A silence fell. Aodh leaned back, ¡°This is not the first time you have tried to infiltrate a DragonLord¡¯s city, yes? I would very much like to know what you have tried before, how did it fail, and why.¡±


    Vayne nodded, ¡°A worthy question,¡± he sighed, ¡°We have always sought information on our homeland. Mostly that came from costly and precarious voyages to their lands. Voyages where we were immediately on the defensive, hunted down from the moment we landed, before even. The Dragons have maintained watches all along their coast ever since they first drove us from the Continent. Even with one single ship it is no easy task to get safely onto land. That is, if one survives the crossing, most don¡¯t.¡±


    Reading on this site? This novel is published elsewhere. Support the author by seeking out the original.Vayne laughed at Aodh¡¯s expression, ¡°As you can tell, it is no easy task we set ourselves. Yet since the Dragons move on Orbran we have no option. They have designs on these lands. How much, and when we do not know. There is too much we do not know. The DragonLords have their fort at Mohier in a place we cannot easily get to nor destroy. So it is that they have a foothold, however small, on our land while we have nothing in theirs. We must change that somehow. We must learn about them and their movements. You will help us do that.¡±


    ¡°The Endless Seas. You have seen them?¡±


    Vayne nodded, ¡°I have. I have been back to our homeland since our retreat Foxling. I know what is required. Just as I know how difficult it is. Even with our ships, there is no guarantee of success. You are aware of that? Your leader Desra informed you of what to expect?¡±


    ¡°He did,¡± Aodh lied, he would not say anything against Desra, not to those who might use it against him. In truth he knew little of the Endless Seas. No one other than the Vampirii had ever sailed across it during their evacuation. And if the legends were true then they had lost more than half their fleet in the process. Though many had tried, human, elf, dwarf it made no difference. The Seas consumed most all which thought to roam its waters.


    ¡°Come, you should go rest. Tonight you will be brought before the Council once more. It is time for you to receive the mark Foxling. Rest, for you may need it.¡±


    ¡°It will be like the real thing you said.¡±


    ¡°Yes, those who created the spell have said as much.¡±


    ¡°But I will survive it. I will not be killed in some mix up.¡±


    Vayne got back to his feet and made a sign for the guards to approach him. ¡°Do not worry Foxling. In truth it is us who should be worried. It would be far worse for us if you died. We have not the time to wait for another before the Seas freeze over. We need it to work.¡±


    ¡°Yes,¡± Aodh spoke slowly, trying to catch the eyes of the Prince, ¡°Though my life being at stake, I would have to disagree, I think it is more important for me that your spellmasters are correct in their calculations.¡±


    ¡°Good, then we are on the same page.¡±


    Vayne was already walking away before Aodh had a chance to respond.


    ¡°Rest Foxling. Rest and drink water. I will see you tonight.¡±


    Aodh was left alone with the half bloods. He thought about trying to follow the Prince, a little more reassuring would have been a comfort. But the five guards were already around him. He had little option but to obey their prompt to head out.


    He was taken directly back to his guest quarters.


    When they were back in sight of his palace he smiled at the sight of Leniseh approaching him. Three other young Princesses were with her. Aodh was busy trying to think of something clever to say, it needed to be clever when she was with her friends. Impressing one female was no easy task, impressing three female friends together was almost impossible.


    He was still trying to think of something as they passed, he was about to call out an extravagant greeting, nothing else had came to mind but Leniseh made no sign that she saw him. Like the others all she offered was a glance before going back to their discussions.  Aodh had to hurriedly close his mouth and return his gaze to his front. Seeing as he had not thought of anything to say it might have been fortunate he had not spoken out. Yet the fact that Leniseh had not even acknowledged him annoyed him more than he would have liked. She is only one lady, Princess or not, he reminded himself. It was not worth worrying over. Instead he focused on something that was worthy of worry. That of being burned by dragonfire, or the feeling of it at least.


    Back at his quarters he washed, cleaned himself and sat down to his meal. He felt an uneasiness for what was to happen. But if it was necessary for the contract then what choice did he have.


    He stayed by the table, having a second cup of the fine Tralorian wine to help relax his fears. When the call came he answered it almost immediately, whatever was going to happen he wanted it to happen now. He was tired of worrying and wondering about what it would be. He wanted it over with.


    He needed no encouragement from the guards this time. The three chosen to escort him led him all the way to the Council chambers. There he was met by two young Princes. One was from House Marresda, the other from House Yehva. The two had been present at the party last night. Aodh remembered particularly the Prince Marresda, he had drunk more blood and wine than most, and by the time Aodh was leaving had begun to dance with a sort of reckless provocation with all and any Princesses he came across.


    Both men communicated silently with the guards and they handed over Aodh into the care of the two Princes.


    ¡°And now to be burned.¡±


    ¡°Do not worry Foxling, whatever they do after surviving Leniseh I¡¯m sure you¡¯ll manage.¡± Marresda grinned back at him as they headed into the depths of the Council Halls.


    ¡°Besides I thought you Foxlings were good with pain, being half beasts shouldn¡¯t you be able to deal with a little burn.¡±


    ¡°A little burn?¡± Aodh scoffed at Yehva¡¯s underplaying of his ordeal, deciding to ignore the fact the Princes know about him and Leniseh. ¡°And have you felt the touch of a Dragon¡¯s flame?¡±


    ¡°No,¡± Yehva admitted, ¡°though I am sure I would bear it should it come to it.¡±


    ¡°Well for your sake I hope you get the opportunity to prove those words. I would be glad to see how well you deal with the prospect not as a mere spectator, but as the receiver. I assure you it is different Prince, it is easy be brave to something you know is not for you.¡±


    ¡°Watch it Foxling, you are to face a mock Dragon flame, you do not want to add Tralor steel to your trial.¡±


    ¡°After facing Dragon fire you¡¯ll forgive me for not being too worried by your threat.¡±


    ¡°Enough.¡± Marresda intervened, ¡°We are here, do not enter bickering like children.¡±


    Aodh grimaced but relented from any more words as the doors to the Councils were opened and he was thrust once more out into the floor before them.


    ¡°You are ready Foxling. You know what is required.¡± Prince Azareel leaned down to him.


    ¡°Yes.¡±


    Aodh saw no reason to protest now, he had come too far for any second thoughts. He had placed his trust in the Vampirii, however much that worried him he would go through with it.


    ¡°Then let us proceed.¡±


    Aodh was thankful that it was only the Heads of the Twenty themselves who were present. Whatever happened only they would see the results. Aodh did not wish for Leniseh, or indeed anyone else to see what was about to happen.


    From another door to the left of him three Vampirs emerged. They were all garbed in similar attire, all wore long, flowing black cloaks. They no doubt were the alchemists to which he was putting so much faith in, Pure Bloods of magical renown.


    The one at their centre came forward towards him. He carried in his hand a small beaker, inside the glass container could see a black liquid. It hissed, and appeared to be bubbling.


    Aodh picked up on the scent the moment the doors entered. To his mind there was already a smell of burning.


    He coughed and glanced back up at the Princes, ¡°And you are sure that this will not be a true mark. That it is only an illusion. A powerful one. But one that can be removed. You are absolutely certain of this, yes. Yes?¡±


    ¡°We are sure Aodh Rua,¡± Prince Vayne¡¯s words from above offered comfort, but Aodh felt little of it. Vayne must have noticed as much.


    ¡°Trust us. There is no doubt. It is an illusion, nothing more nothing less. Drink. This is the next step in your contract. The contract you have sworn to undertake, for us. And on behalf of Desra and the Foxling Dynasty.¡±


    His words appealed to him, Aodh again felt the burde of expectation on him. He knew that Vayne would say whatever was needed to ensure cooperation but his words held weight. The Prince was right, whatever his motives, the burning was the next step.


    ¡°Quickly then.¡± Aodh forced himself to keep his eyes open. He would not show the fear and horror he felt inside.


    The lead alchemist was a professional, he wasted no time on theatrics but came and with one hand raised Aodh¡¯s face. With the other he lifted up the glass.


    Aodh closed his eyes and took a deep breath.


    And then it hit him.


    He had always thought himself strong. The trials of a Foxling were no minor things, it was not without a great deal of strength and mental resolve that one passed through it. Aodh had always felt he¡¯d managed the pains and tribulations better than most. In whatever punishment or suffering he¡¯d faced he had always done so somberly, without undue complaint.


    Now he screamed. Harder than he had ever screamed.


    He felt every drop of the liquid as it flowed over him, his skincracked, swelled and exploded. His entire body shook and seemed to be melting into a pool of liquid. The fire was all consuming, it was all over him, it was inside of him. His body was no more, he and the flames combined into one agonising mass of overwhelming heat.


    Desperate, he tried to open his eyes, to cry out.


    He only wanted reprieve, he did not care how. He only wanted the pain to be taken away from him. The contract, Vampirii, Dragons, none of it mattered. Only the pain.


    The suddenness of the pain had shocked him, when that pain did suddenly disappear from him he was equally as shocked. He sucked in gulps of deep breaths, the air torn out of his body. He felt himself, there were no flames, and there was skin. It hadn¡¯t, as it had keenly sensed, peeled and flowed off him. He was whole. Apart from dry lips he felt nothing. Only the memory of the pain remained. That he would not forget. Dragonfire was something he did not ever want to experience again.


    Opening his eyes he saw the alchemist, and a little further back the Princes staring at him. Slowly Aodh got back to his feet.


    Old Feergar pointed down at him triumphantly, ¡°See, I told you it would work. A perfect illusion.¡±


    Aodh did not fail to pick up on the fact that there had obviously been some who hadn¡¯t thought it would work. Though in truth he wasn¡¯t sure if knowing that beforehand would have been a good thing.


    The lead alchemist handed Aodh a new beaker, he took it but paused with it to his lips.


    ¡°It is just water Foxling, nothing more.¡±


    Aodh had a quick taste, and seeing that it was just that he drank deeply, downing almost the entire bottle before he felt content.


    ¡°It worked then?¡±


    Prince Grunvar nodded, ¡°It worked, Foxling. To any untrained eyes you are now a Burned Man. And have the exact appearance of one.¡±


    Aodh shook his head, looking down at himself he saw no change. But that was the purpose of an illusion after all.


    ¡°It had to be so real?¡±


    ¡°I am afraid so.¡± This time the alchemist answered, ¡°For it was only by your real pain and suffering that the spell was complete. Had it been imitation then Cathach or any other of the Dragonkin would no doubt see through it.¡±


    ¡°I shall take your word for it.¡±


    Aodh was helped to his feet, though he felt no pain, he was exhausted.


    Prince Vayne ordered three of the guards over to him.


    ¡°Go Aodh, back to your chambers. You will need rest. We must soon depart from Tralor and begin the journey to the Partholon. You will be given time to recover yourself, but we must soon depart. It is a four day journey to the coast, for you at least, and we must accompany you. You have bravely done what has been asked of you so far. But soon your real mission will begin. So rest.¡±


    Aodh raised his eyes wearily, he didn¡¯t speak but settled for nodding instead. Slowly he was led back out of the chambers and into the corridors. The walk back to his own rooms was a struggle, tired as he was he did not want to show it. With a great deal of effort he followed his guard. They appeared to recognise his struggles at least, and their pace reflected it. He was glad of that fact.


    He could not remember the last time he was so pleased to see a bed once he was safely returned to his home. He neither bothered to remove his clothes or weapons. He only wanted rest for now. Only that.

 Release

    Aodh awoke to find someone looking down over him. He reached for his knife but all too quick he felt a hand over his mouth and on his arm. He looked up to find Leniseh staring down at him motioning to be quiet.


    ¡°I came to visit.¡± She whispered, ¡°I heard you were taken by dragonflame. I want to know what it was like.¡±


    Aodh moved her hands away. ¡°This is what Princesses call a visit?¡±


    ¡°Well yes actually, seeing as you were asleep before it was even second moon.¡± She put a hand across his face.


    ¡°Fascinating.¡±


    ¡°My face? Is it that handsome?¡±


    ¡°Relax Foxling, I was referring to the illusion you now bear.¡±


    Aodh sat up a little. ¡°What does it look like?¡±


    She shrugged, ¡°Exactly like a Burned man should look like. If I do not look closely then I see a human, perfectly half scorched.


    She threw back his covers and frowned at his clothes, ¡°It covers the entirety of your body?¡±


    ¡°It is supposed to. Though if you wish to examine mine, then it is only fair I get to examine yours.¡±


    ¡°You did plenty of that last night.¡±


    ¡°And I wish to do plenty more of it this night.¡±


    Leniseh was wearing a thin dress, elegant and light, the sight of her in it had quickly put Aodh awake.


    ¡°One night is not enough?¡±


    ¡°A thousand is not enough.¡±


    She laughed and frowned at him, ¡°What would happen at a thousand and one?¡±


    ¡°I would grow bored and need to find someone else.¡±


    She went to slap him, though playfully, which gave him time to catch it.


    ¡°Is that how you like it?¡±


    ¡°You are ridiculous.¡± She shook her head but didn¡¯t resist when Aodh pulled her in close to him.


    They kissed, Aodh wrapped his hand around her neck drawing her in closer.


    She pulled away and licked her lips, ¡°I fear I am starting to get a taste for you.¡±


    Aodh raised a brow, ¡°So long as it is only a taste. I need my blood still.¡±


    ¡°I know, I was good last night wasn¡¯t I?¡±


    Aodh couldn¡¯t help smiling at her expression, ¡°Good? I do not think that word has ever been used to describe you Princess. Though admittedly you are good at some things.¡±


    She kissed him, ¡°You also, I find you¡­ acceptable.¡±


    ¡°Acceptable?¡± He opened his mouth in horror, ¡°You offend me.¡±


    She laughed even as she kissed and then traced a finger across his neck.


    He sighed, ¡°Is it really so important for you? Does it add so much.¡±


    ¡°I have already told you that it does. It makes me desire you. Crave you. All of you within me. Without it I feel nothing.¡±


    Aodh knew well enough Leniseh was manipulating him, her hand descending down his chest and body confirmed as much.


    Her emphasis on desire and crave had inspired just the same feelings in him.


    For what comes after, he reassured himself. For what came after was certainly worth it.


    She moved her lips slowly across his neck, teasing both him and herself. Her hands continued to search for him. Aodh turned slightly to take a hold of her body as she was him.


    She only stayed on his neck a moment before withdrawing and wiping the blood from her mouth.


    When she bit there was the same momentary jolt of pain, and, though he wouldn¡¯t admit it, there was pleasure for him too as she sucked on his neck. But it was best she did not know the fact. Likely she already does, Aodh realised. He ceased to think after that. What physical pain he had earlier experienced was quickly being replaced with physical pleasure. The fact consoled him.


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    When Aodh next awoke it was still dark, though the first moon was starting to make its presence felt. He looked over to see the space beside him empty. But he saw Leniseh at the side of the bed fumbling with her dress. She was looking intently at him, from her stare Aodh guessed she had not meant for him to wake.


    ¡°You are leaving.¡± He stated.


    ¡°Yes, it is better I am not seen here. I told you.¡±


    ¡°You did. You know I am leaving this evening. For the Coast.¡±


    ¡°I am aware, yes.¡±


    Aodh nodded. There was a silence.


    ¡°Will you be there to say goodbye? Or is that what this is?¡±


    ¡°To say goodbye?¡± Leniseh raised a brow, she laughed.


    ¡°Goodbye to what? Two nights of lying with each other. Is it so precious to you?¡±


    ¡°I was merely being polite. I thought it best to bid you farewell properly. Obviously I was mistaken. As for thinking it precious,¡±


    Aodh turned back over, ¡°I consider laying with a Vampir Princess precious, the who does not matter.¡±


    Though Aodh did not see, by the sound of her departure, he supposed she¡¯d stormed off. Usually silent, her steps echoed as she left the bedroom.


    He immediately regretted his words. He had wanted to lash out at her for her apparent disregard, he did not mean the words. He knew why she didn¡¯t wish to be seen with him, it made sense. Yet still he had let his pride rule him. Aodh sighed and placed his hands under his head.


    I should apologise for that. He thought. Though, she evidently did not care for the two nights all that much. She did start it with that laugh. It was the laugh made me lash out.


    Likely she wouldn¡¯t care either way if he apologised or not. Aodh rubbed at his neck.


    He turned over again. Why did I wake up?


    Aodh did not sleep after that, the moon was already casting its light, and he had fallen asleep early. His time with Leniseh had left his body feeling content, though perhaps not his mind.


    Breakfast was hastily put out by his thralls. They were only beginning to set the table when he arrived and seemed distraught by him awakening ahead of time.


    He tried to place a comforting hand on one, and was about to explain that there was no rush. But the thrall instantly drew back, as if the touch had burned him. Aodh decided it best to leave them to it, evidently they were not for speaking.


    He did not eat much, it was too early and he had not the appetite for more than a few slices of bacon and bread. A single glass of wine and he was fully satisfied.


    He was called upon just before noon. Six guards were outside. This time they led him back towards the Platform Tower he had arrived in the city through. He alone took the lift back down to the lower city. It was not near so bad now that he was prepared.


    Apparently there was not to be much fanfare for his departure.


    Three Princes and several Households guards were waiting at the outer Gates for him. Behind them were ten half bloods all mounted, along with twenty thrall soldiers. All looked eager to be off.


    The three Princes Feergar, Azareel and Mezal. Three of those most in favour of his task. Aodh was surprised when all three of the Princes came forward to shake his hand and bid him luck on his journey. One by one they looked at him with only sincerity. He nodded and uttered his thanks, ensuring he would do all in his power to uncover as much as he could about the Dragonkin.


    ¡°Vayne will be joining you at the Coast along with my own son Yoven and Feergar¡¯s son Fendar.¡± Azareel explained as Aodh went to join his escort, ¡°They naturally will be making their way later, they are currently engaged in another matter along their route. Do not worry, you will not be delayed, they¡¯ll be there before you more than likely.¡± Azareel smiled, ¡°We are quite adept when it comes to speed.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ve noticed.¡±


    Aodh took a moment to steady himself before he transformed into his Beast form. He was glad the Vampirii had not pressed him onto horseback. In his fox form he was just as fast and a hundred times more comfortable.


    None of the Princes seemed surprised by the transformation. Though it was true that all three had played major roles in the Land Wars. No doubt Beastlings, in whatever form, were not all that strange to them. There was nothing else to say, nor do. A low growl was all the indication the guards needed to know he was ready. With that they were off.


    Aodh padded along as the Half bloods and thralls horses cantered out of the great Gates. They moved at a fast pace, if a steady one. Aodh felt a surge of energy flow through him as he moved, it had been too long since he¡¯d been in the form, he could not wait to be outside the city and to break out into a gallop.


    He would have liked to say goodbye to Leniseh, a final kiss would have been sweet. But after how they had departed, he was not surprised that she had not appeared. It was only two nights after all, she had been right about that. Still, Aodh¡¯s mind was full of ways he could have perhaps acted better.


    He was glad to be finally back out in the open. Once they were outside the time for thinking ceased. As soon as they were freed his escort urged their mounts on and were soon charging out down the main roadway. Aodh let go of his worries as he followed suit. He was in the middle of their numbers, but they were moving at a good speed. He would not have to think on anything else until they stopped. To be a fox would be enough.