《The King of the Jungle: Rise of the Basin Fortress》


 Welcome to the Jungle

    Idiotas! Did I not tell you mongrels to be careful!? You will pay for that when we get back. Con rapidez! I don¡¯t want to lose my prey.¡± The nobleman screamed.


    Aeric was stalking the hunting party, trying to keep pace while still being unseen. The morning was supposed to be a slow one, he was to collect some herbs to restock his medical supplies when he heard the barking and crashing of dogs. Aeric quickly looked for a camouflaged vantage point and was able to find a large, healthy tree with abundant leaves. He took out a small bottle and rag. He dripped a couple of drops of liquid on the rag and dabbed it on different parts of his body. He then made a motion with his hands and his companion faded out into the jungle. All that was left to do was to wait.


    A couple of knuckles later, a wounded horned wild pig exploded from the underbrush. It was leaking blood and couldn¡¯t run very well. The fletching of a quarrel could be seen sticking out of its side, near the lungs. Aeric concluded that the hunter tried for a heart shot but missed. Horned wild pigs could run quite a distance even when injured so he suspected that the hunting party had been chasing for a while, based on the condition of the dying animal. There would be some angry and tired people following.


    It took a couple more knuckles before the hunting party made their appearance. Aeric felt his blood boil when he saw the nobleman. He was riding a jungle strider equipped for a hunt. A boar spear was racked at knee level of the lizard mount and the nobleman was holding a long crossbow. These hunting crossbows are well-known for their accuracy and are a favorite of marksmen everywhere. The nobleman must have a good eye to hit the wild pig in the thick foliage, considering he and his party was making such a racket. Aeric guessed that growing up as a member or the upper-class, the nobleman would have had the education to properly wield the weapon.


    If it was just the nobleman and the two hunting guides he had with him, he would have left them alone. When he saw the ragged slaves being pulled by the hunting hounds, he decided then and there that the nobleman¡¯s party would die. Three of the slaves were chained to the hounds, being dragged along as the hunting animals continue the chase for the prey. The slaves chained to the hounds were exhausted and scratched up, head hanging low and large deep breaths could be heard. Typically, they were not garbed for a chase through the unforgiving jungle. The slaves were wearing worn sandals and thin, gray shirts that were heavily patched. Two women slaves were chained to the pommel of the saddle of the nobleman. They were carrying extra spears and skins of water or wine. The slave on the right of the nobleman has a large bruise on the left side of her face. It was deep purple and looks like it would take some healing salve and time for it to completely heal. Aeric doubt that she would get that.


    The nobleman was kicking the lizard to greater speed, trying to catch the wild pig before it gets too far. Two hunting guides, garbed in green and brown kept pace with the nobleman. Their striders were smaller, probably from a lesser known brood, but were having no problems keeping up with the larger mount. The chase was on so there was no need for them to lead anymore. Their job was to find the prey and maneuver the hunting party to allow for a good shot. Now that the animal was wounded, they would guard the nobleman and allow him the ¡®honor¡¯ of finishing off the pig. Aeric snorted at the idea. There was no honor for the nobleman in the hunt. He didn¡¯t find the prey, he just took the shot. It always galled Aeric what ¡®noblemen¡¯ find honorable.


    Once the party was out of sight, Aeric waited a couple of knuckles more before whistling softly. A moment later, a large stone dog appeared just beneath his hiding position. The dog looked up and gave a soft bark. Aeric grinned and waved him away. It always amazes him how the dog to could seem to disappear and appear at will. He was like a ghost between the trees.


    Aeric slowly climbed down from his hiding point, ensuring that he had a good grip before moving to the next handhold. He was never the most graceful of climbers and many a fall had taught him of the benefits of going slow. Once his feet touched the earth, the stone dog buried its head on his chest, looking for a good scratch. Aeric complied and made sure to reach behind the ear, rubbing his favorite spot.


    ¡°Spoiled one, ain¡¯t you, Titan? You didn¡¯t do anything yet but you¡¯re already looking for a scratch.¡± Aeric admonished but there was no heat in it. He was too fond of the horse-sized dog to get angry at him.


    ¡°Ready to do some hunting of our own? We¡¯re going after that blonde bastard. We have to keep quiet, though.¡± Aeric murmured in the ear of the stone dog. Titan just gave a small chuffing sound to signal his understanding. The stone dog is as smart as a stupid human so communication with him needs to be clear and concise.


    Aeric grabbed on Titan¡¯s long, stringy ropes of fur and pulled himself astride the massive beast. Titan bore his weight well. Once he was settled, he patted the dog then bent down near its swiveling ears.


    ¡°Right, we need to chase them but keep out of sight. You¡¯ll get a kill soon.¡± The dog let out a low growl then started loping after the hunting party. It¡¯s one of the reasons why stone dogs are not easily tamed. The need to kill is part of what they are. The longer a stone dog is without a kill, the more aggressive it becomes. Leave it alone long enough, the stone dog becomes blood-crazed, killing anything within sight. Aeric goes on a hunt with Titan every 10-day. The stone dog gets his kill and satiates its bloodlust while Aeric gets a part of the kill. He makes sure that Titan hunts game animals and dangerous creatures that could pose a threat to their home. The stone dog is the perfect predator.


    After a bell of moving silently, Aeric could hear the barking of the hounds again. He patted the dog to make it slow down. They kept themselves at a respectable distance, allowing for the skill of the guides. Aeric¡¯s woodcraft skills have been honed over the years living in the jungle yet he was never formally trained. He has a healthy respect for those who makes a living hunting and trapping this deep in the Howling Jungle.


    It took the rest of the morning until the hunting party finally caught up with the horned wild pig. Unlike its cousin, the wild boar, the horned wild pig instinctually runs away from danger rather than meet it. It¡¯s faster than the wild boar though smaller in size. Hunters prefer the wild pig due to its less gamey taste and it allows a novice hunter a good first kill. A wild boar could gore an unprepared hunter with its sharp tusks.


    The bleeding pig was moving more at a trot since it has weakened considerably. The hounds were nipping at its heels. The nobleman reached over and gave his crossbow to one of his guides. He then stopped his strider and dismounted. He unhooked the long boar spear and took it in his hands. The guides followed suit and dismounted. They worked with the dogs in herding the pig towards the nobleman. The pig was enraged, the hounds were darting in for a quick nip before the pig could swing around its ponderous size and try to gore them with its short horn. Once there the pig saw that there was an opening with only the nobleman guarding it, it made a dash for it. It lowered its head, intending to ram its way to freedom with its horn leading the way. The nobleman was an experienced one so he almost lazily set his spear, point it at the charging pig. The pig impaled itself on it, working itself up the spearhead until it was stopped by the lugs. The nobleman had planted the butt of the spear on the ground so he was able to set himself well and took the weight of the fast-moving animal without any difficulty. The pig made a few weak movements but it was already dead. The nobleman withdrew the spear with a hard yank and raised it with both hands. The guides gave a loud cheer while the nobleman basked in the adoration with a wide smirk.


    ¡°Make sure you don¡¯t damage the animal. I¡¯ll take it out of your hide if you do.¡± The nobleman instructed the tired slaves. He then tossed the spear to the nearest female slave.


    ¡°Clean it up. Don¡¯t forget to hone the edge. You don¡¯t want to feel the cut when I stab you with it.¡± The guides laughed uproariously at the seemingly light joke the nobleman made. The slaves mean nothing to the imperials but Aeric is no imperial. He was hiding behind a rock outcropping looking over the small clearing the hunting party had chased the wild pig into. His anger was rekindled after he saw how little regard the nobleman showed to his slaves. Aeric supposed that he should have expected it, but it was still akin to a slap on his face every time he hears such statements.


    The slave woman cringed and bowed low, keeping her eyes on the ground as she clutched the spear close to her breast. She scurried back and took out a rag. She feverishly started cleaning the spear, removing the bits and pieces from the pig and the blood soaking it. The other slaves were detached from the hounds and were ordered to dress the pig. It was not as big as an adult boar but it was still a sizable animal. The tired slaves heaved and grunted as they moved away from the nobleman and the guides who were passing a skin around, laughing and drinking. It took almost a bell and a half before the slaves were done gutting and cleaning the pig. It did not help that the now-sloshed nobleman insists on yelling over them and giving them the occasional kick. One of the slaves did not move fast enough for the nobleman so he gave him a solid punch in the face. The slave tumbled on the ground as the nobleman yelled at him. The slave just apologized and worked faster. The guides just laughed at him as the nobleman went back, complaining loudly of poor work and lazy slaves.


    Aeric¡¯s knuckles were white as he gripped his spear tightly. He badly wanted to shove the tip of his weapon through the laughing idiots but knew that he could not match the nobleman and the guides in a straight up fight. These are well-trained men. He had served his time in his town¡¯s militia during his younger years but it cannot compare to the experience these men have. He would have to be smart about this.


    Aeric watched the slaves tie the pig on a pole to carry it. The hunting party mounted up and started making its way back to, presumably, their camp. They were moving at a more leisurely pace now, the nobleman and the guides sharing stories about the hunt, and were not as alert to their surroundings as before. Aeric got on Titan and continued shadowing the group. He maintained his prior distance. There was no need to chance being spotted when there is no call for it.


    It was almost dark when the hunting party reached the camp. The camp was sited on a clearing near a small stream. Aeric could see that tents were already set up. The nobleman and the guides dismounted and started divesting themselves of hunting gear. The slaves scurried around the camp, ensuring that everything is in order and the overlords content. The nobleman called for food as he sat down on the log by the central fire. One of the women slaves darted in a tent and came out with a platter of bread and cheese. She also carried a small folding table that she set beside the nobleman. She placed the food on it and went back inside the tent to fetch a pitcher of wine. She served the happy hunters as the other slaves worked around the camp. It didn¡¯t take long before the men were drunk and were singing songs. The slaves that were done with their work rested themselves among the mass of hounds tied to a tree. The night was starting to get deeper when Aeric finally decided to make good on his promise.


    Aeric was watching camp from behind a large tree a ways off. There was no vantage point he could take advantage of other than scaling a tree. He could see them quite well so there was no need for him to do so.


    Once he was satisfied that the hunters were well into their cups, Aeric raised his right hand and made some signals then pointed to a bush near one of the sleeping guides. Titan faded away as he padded silently towards his designated ambush place. Aeric crept slowly, ensuring that there was a tree or brush covering him as he approached the camp. One of the guides was on watch, sitting just outside the firelight facing the jungle. Aeric approached him at an angle, keeping himself well away from eyesight. Once he felt that he was near enough, he crouched down behind a clump of undergrowth. Reaching behind him, Aeric unlaced the Atlatl he tied on his belt. The wooden launcher was a small construct, very easy to carry. Aeric always travels with his spear and a throwing arrow. The arrow is light and thin, made from fire hardened bamboo. Aeric made it a point to always carry one. You never know when you would stumble on a hunt of opportunity.


    Securing the arrow on the leather thong attached to the Atlatl, Aeric eyed the drunk sentry. He doubted he could have crept up to the guide if he was sober. The man was barely awake, nodding once in a while and slapping his thigh to keep himself awake. Aeric took a couple of deep breaths then stood up from his hiding position. The guide was facing away from him so he didn¡¯t have to hurry his throw. He still didn¡¯t take his time since somebody else from the camp could see him if they look his way.


    With a grunt, Aeric¡¯s right hand snapped forward. The arrow leaped from the atlatl at almost triple the force and range Aeric could have thrown it if he had chucked it without one. The arrow flew true and pierced the man¡¯s upper back. He could see that the arrow buried itself halfway in. Aeric didn¡¯t watch the gasping guide collapse and blew a sharp whistle. Titan exploded from underneath the shrubs beside one of the tents with the remaining guide sleeping inside. Titan crashed through the flaps and Aeric could hear a short shout being suddenly cut off. The sound of bones cracking signaled the stone dog¡¯s kill. Aeric was running towards the last tent and could hear the hounds baying loudly, tugging on their leashes. The slaves huddled closely together, trying to move away from Aeric. They were also chained to the tree so they couldn¡¯t go far. They circled the tree and ducked down behind it.


    Aeric was running hard and just passed the fire when the nobleman stumbled out of the tent. He was disheveled and his eyes were red but he was prepared. He has a sword in his hand and he was gripping it tightly.


    ¡°?C¨¢llate! What in god¡¯s-¡± The nobleman didn¡¯t get to finish his sentence. When Aeric saw the man emerging from the tent, he doubled his efforts to reach him before the man shakes off his confusion. The man¡¯s eyes widened as he saw Aeric bearing down on him and was bringing up his sword. Aeric led with his spear and before the nobleman could defend himself, Aeric jumped forward, thrusting hard, spear point digging deeply in the man¡¯s sternum. Aeric threw his entire weight on the thrust and he pushed until he felt the spear caught on its lugs, a quarter of the way in. The nobleman screamed as he was thrown backward, back into his tent, taking the spear with him. Aeric skidded from his flying thrust as he landed and drew his hunting knife. He ran into the tent to finish the job. The nobleman was on his back with the spear in his hands. His face was contorted in pain. Aeric was not sure if he was trying to steady it or pull it out but he never gave the nobleman the chance. He had his knife in an underhand grip. He dropped to a knee and plunged the knife through the man¡¯s left eye. He twisted the knife to scramble the man¡¯s brain and ensure the man was a dead as a dead man could be. The nobleman¡¯s legs were twitching and kicking as life left the body.


    Aeric stayed on his knees as he took deep breaths, a little winded from his run. Now that he was not focusing on killing people, he could hear the bedlam the hounds were making. The entire camp was reverberating from the barks of the enraged hounds. Aeric cleaned his knife on the nobleman¡¯s shirt and stood up. He grabbed his spear and pulled hard to retrieve it. The body held it for a moment before it slowly released it with a sucking sound. Aeric then heard a deep, extremely loud bark. The hounds instantly stopped baying, fearful whining replacing the noise. Aeric went back outside and could see Titan standing tall in front of the hounds. Some of the hounds peed on the ground while the others tried to make themselves smaller, shaking. Titian is an adult stone dog, his size can be compared to a carriage horse. Aeric could see Titan giving the hounds the eye, cowing them.


    ¡°Titan! Leave the hounds alone. I think they know who is alpha now.¡± Aeric called. Titan stared a few more moment to reinforce his dominance before he backed off, trotting back to walk beside Aeric. The dog¡¯s muzzle was painted red from the blood of the guide and he could see the dog¡¯s tail wagging. Titan always enjoyed the thrill of the hunt. He always was very playful after one.


    Aeric walked towards the hounds and had titan keep itself between him and them. He walked around the tree and could see the slaves holding one other. A whimper could be heard as they saw him approach. They kept their heads down and some of them were crying. They probably thought that it was their end.


    Aeric examined the shackles and could see that they were poorly made. Some of the shackles were biting hard on some of the slaves¡¯ wrists and were bleeding. The others were rusty constructs, hammered to fit. Aeric went back to the nobleman¡¯s tent and searched around. He flipped the dead man and removed the ring of keys tied to his waist. He went back to the slaves and stood in front of them.


    ¡°Hey!¡±


    The slaves flinched and just huddled tighter, holding each other.


    ¡°Look at me. I said look at me!¡± Aeric took a harder tone to break through the slaves¡¯ terror. They raised their heads one by one, looking at Aeric but not directly in his eyes. The women were crying while the men had the look of total despair. Aeric stretched out his right hand in front of him, dangling the keys on his fingers.


    ¡°I¡¯ll be opening your shackles in a moment. Stay still until I tell you otherwise. That stone dog there will be watching you, understand?¡± Titan looked away from staring the hounds to face the slaves. Another round of whimpers came from the huddle. Point made, Titan went back to dominating the hounds. Aeric thought that the stone dog was having a lot of fun scaring the hounds based on the slow wagging of its tails as he guarded.


    ¡°Don¡¯t worry, I don¡¯t want to hurt you and I don¡¯t want you to hurt me. I¡¯ll free you one by one and let you go. You¡¯re not in Agoutia anymore. Slavery is illegal in Idaca. Welcome to the Howling Jungle.¡± Aeric approached the women first, moving slowly as not to startle them. He worked the keys one by one until he inserted the proper one. A click was heard before the shackle dropped from the bruised woman¡¯s neck on the ground. The woman had the look of unbelieving surprise. This might be the first time in a long time since she was not tied to something. As the woman continue to absorb her current state, Aeric continued working, removing her leg shackles. Once she was completely free, the woman looked at her free ankles and raised her hands in the air, a joyous shout erupting from her throat. The other slaves looked at the freed woman and then looked at each other. Now that they know they were not going to be killed, their fear was replaced with the look of expectation and amazement. Aeric unshackled them one by one until the last shackle was removed. The slaves were crying and hugging each other, this time with joy. Aeric just stood aside from them, letting them have their moment. He never experienced being a slave so he could never completely understand the feeling of being free but he could imagine.


    When Aeric felt that the freed slaves have calmed down enough he stepped around the tree to stand beside Titan. He waved at the group to follow him. They were happy to be free but he can also see the apprehension in their eyes. He was still an unknown to them. Nevertheless, they followed the instruction.


    ¡°Right. All of you have cuts and bruises. I can also see that you¡¯re all underfed. Sit by the fire and I will tend to your wounds later.¡± Aeric watched them as they sat around the campfire, talking amongst themselves. He noticed that none of them looked at the dead Agoutians. He thought that some of them would want to kick the corpses or something but that might just be him. He let them be and considered the dilemma he now has. Aeric didn¡¯t want to have to order Titan to kill the hounds. He always had a soft spot for them. He also can¡¯t just let them free since the Howling Jungle is a dangerous place. There are a lot of creatures out there that would consider the hunting hounds as food. He didn¡¯t want to care for them either since it would be a lot of work to feed, care, and train half a dozen hounds. He deliberated a moment before he came to decision. He patted Titan then walked towards the resting slaves. Aeric pointed at the three men that were chained to the dogs earlier.


    ¡°You men, what say you to freeing the dogs? Would you want me to kill them, let them go, or leave them chained up? You men were the ones who were dragged around by them. You deserve to have a hand at this.¡± Aeric asked.


    The men looked at each other when one of them cleared his throat. The man was the tallest of the group. He was missing the top half of his right ear. He was uniformly thin and dirty but he could see that the man has some guts. He was the first one to look him in the eye.


    ¡°If you would, master, we would like to keep the dogs. They have mo sin in this. The depravity of their masters has no hold in them. They are good hounds, they are. If we are to be free, they would be our protection. We care for them and they know us. Their masters, or should I say, former masters, thought that they could turn them against us but we have trained that out of the hounds secretly. They act savage but they are good hounds.¡± With that said, the man broke eye contact and fidgeted on the ground. The other free men and women nodded along during his speech.


    ¡°I understand. First thing, I am no ¡®master.¡¯ Remember, there are no slaves here. Second, I agree that you would need protection. I would leave them in your care then. I will help you in keeping them fed but I would not care for them. We would stay here for the night then we will make for Cornago, a port city about four days of travel from here. There you can find people willing to help you get you on your feet. I would warn you, though, the local commandante dell¡¯esercito would probably want to interrogate you. Any and all information they could glean about Agoutia from you freed slaves would be a point of interest.¡± At the word ¡®interrogate¡¯, the look of fear returned on their faces. Aeric hurriedly explained that interrogate in this case means sitting in a room being asked questions, not being tortured in the rack like what they thought. One of the men raised his hand.If you stumble upon this narrative on Amazon, it''s taken without the author''s consent. Report it.


    ¡°Would they let us be? Afterwards, I mean.¡±


    ¡°It depends. They will keep you around until they feel that they have gotten everything they need from you then they might want to employ you afterward, as a consultant. Especially important since all of you are from Salvaci¨®n. You are from there, right?¡±


    ¡°Yes, ma- I mean yes, we are.¡±


    ¡°Well, that¡¯s it then. They would really want to talk to you. In case they don¡¯t employ you, there is still the Order of Emancipation. It is one of the founding Idacan Laws of the Land. You will be given food, shelter, and care until they find you an appropriate job. Granted, you¡¯ll probably end up working menial jobs but you¡¯ll all be paid legal wages and nobody can take your money from you, aside from taxes of course.¡± That made Aeric mentally smile. He lives off the abundance of the Howling Jungle. He doesn¡¯t pay any taxes.


    The group got into an animated discussion of what they could do with the money they would earn and it was saddening to hear that for most of them, the highest aspiration they had at the moment was to buy enough food to never feel hungry ever again.


    ¡°So, we can earn a living? Own property? Be free to choose how to spend our own time?¡±


    ¡°Yes, to all of your questions.¡±


    The woman asking the question looked stunned. It was only now that the meaning of freedom finally sunk in. Aeric knew that he would continue answering questions but decided that it was enough for the moment. He motioned the men to follow him. They got off the ground and walked behind him. Aeric stopped and turned to face the men. The men looked back inquisitively.


    ¡°Walk with me. You don¡¯t have to trail behind me. In Idacan culture, that would be an offense. Idacans believe that walking behind someone is a sign that you don¡¯t trust them, that you don¡¯t want to show them your back.¡± The men nodded in understanding and drew level to Aeric. They continued walking until they were facing the hounds. The men didn¡¯t want to approach with Titan standing close by so Aeric waved him away. The stone dog made himself comfortable on a bed of leaves just outside the camp.


    Now that the huge predator was no longer hovering over the small pack, the hounds were more amenable to being petted. The men went among the frightened hounds and reassured the animals with petting and scratches. One of the men approached Aeric and shyly asked for permission to use the keys. Aeric tossed him the entire ring. The man went back to release the hounds. While the men were busy with the hunting hounds, Aeric went back and entered the small, plain, white tent. He could see that it was a supplies tent and rummaged around until he found some bread and cheese. There were also spiced sausages so he dumped them all in a spare box. Carrying it outside, he placed the box on top of the small table near the fire. Aeric could see he had an audience watching him. He looked up and smiled at them then waved at the box.


    "Have something to eat. All of you would need your strength." They did not waste a moment before the tall man with the missing ear was breaking apart and passing around the bread and cheese. He also divided the sausages and shared it with the rest. All of them were eating at a feverish pace, like they were afraid somebody would take their food away. Aeric had to admonish them to eat properly or they would feel that in the morning. They tried following his advice but he can still see them stuffing their mouths. Aeric left them alone and circled the camp, looking for something to loot from the corpses.


    He first made his way to the guide he skewered with the arrow. The man was face down on the ground with a pool of blood slowly expanding underneath him. Aeric pulled out the arrow and was pleased to see that it was relatively undamaged. None of the Agoutians were armored so there was nothing to stop the bamboo from piercing deep. He set it aside and started patting down the corpse. Aeric divested the dead of its weapons, a hunting crossbow with its quarrels in a short quiver and a long knife. He briefly examined the weapons and could see that they were nothing spectacular. The crossbow is a serviceable weapon and the quarrels are iron-tipped. The knife is of better quality, worked steel and properly forged, but again, nothing superior to his own. He set those aside and resumed his search. He was able to grab a small pouch of copper coins and a smoking pipe. He could see that the dead man has a decent pair of shoes so he stripped that off him along with his socks. He was about to leave when he decided that the pants were also in good shape. With the clothes in hand, he stopped by the eating group and dropped the pants, shoes, and socks beside the leader of the former slaves. He was about the same height of the guide, if not in thickness. He stopped eating to thank Aeric and started stripping off his own. Aeric noticed that the others were not at all disturbed by the suddenly-pantless man. They probably have been forced naked in front of people often to develop that disregard for it.


    Aeric entered the nobleman''s tent hoping for better scavenging. He first patted down the nobleman and came away with a signet ring, a heavier coin pouch containing silver and copper coins and the sword he was holding. Aeric removed the man''s shoes and tried it on. It was a perfect fit. He took a couple of steps and did some hops to check for pinching and was happy to not feel any discomfort. He checked the small pack beside the sleeping roll and found a couple of changes of clothes. All of them were too fancy for Aeric''s taste and silks don''t stand up well to the rigors of the jungle. He collected them anyway and stuffed them back in the pack. Besides the noble''s hunting crossbow, there were some bits and bobs but nothing else that sparks his interest other than two things.


    The sword and a book.


    The sword was about two handspans long. It was a double-edged thrusting weapon with a blood groove running down the blade. It has a simple cross guard to protect the hand and a wire-wrapped pommel as a grip. The small pommel weight was unmarked which was a surprise to Aeric. Most nobles would stamp a brotherhood seal or a knightship mark on it. It would mean that the noble slowly cooling off at Aeric''s feet has not yet or failed to join any of those noble affiliations. It was well that it was unmarked because it was almost impossible to sell or hide a marked blade. The sheath beside the sleeping roll was of simple worked leather. It was elegant in its simplicity. It was of good quality leather with very good stitching. The leather was recently oiled too. Aeric initially thought of selling the blade until he found the book.


    The book was entitled "Sword Forms: A Guide to Blade Work Basics by Maestro Antonio Salvedanni" and it is a thick one. Flipping through the pages, Aeric could see that the author discussed in detail how to train for a variety of swords. The book focuses on three main weapons, the short sword commonly used by the army, the sabre which is the dominion of nobles and cavalrymen, and the rapier, the favorite of duelists everywhere. Aeric has no interest in learning the sabre of the rapier but was really piqued in trying his hand with the short sword. It just seems like it was the most practical one to learn. It''s not like there would be anybody calling him out to a duel under the thick canopies of the Howling Jungle. Aeric does not know if learning how to use a sword would come in handy since he was already good with the spear but he has all the time in the world to learn. It would prove to be an interesting diversion at least.


    Aeric finished scavenging and picked up the nobleman''s hunting crossbow. It was leaps and bounds better than the guide''s weapon. The woodwork was fantastic and there was some etching work on the side of the stock. The metal pieces were free of rust and when Aeric pulled the trigger, it was smooth. He kicked things around a bit until he found some extra string. It was lightly waxed to protect it from the elements. Aeric pocketed the string and hooked the crossbow on his belt. He was disappointed that the quarrels were of the same quality as the guide''s but there was no reason for them to carry war shots. Arrowheads that could penetrate plate armor are expensive and are wasted on game.


    Aeric now has more weapons that he ever held in his entire life. The price of the crossbow alone would have been more money that he had ever owned for the last ten years. He stuffed the nobleman''s bag with everything he wanted and exited the tent. He gave his old pair of shoes to the one closest to his size and the man was very thankful. Aeric didn''t want to enter the sagging tent Titan charged into because he knows the mess that would greet him but he also didn''t want to leave anything valuable behind.


    Aeric entered the last tent and immediately stepped on viscera. Titan chewed on the man badly and you could hardly recognize the remains as a man. He made a quick search in the tent then hurried outside with the man''s weapons. A crossbow with a quiver of quarrels and another hunting knife. He moved everything to the campfire where everybody was busy digesting their meal. Aeric called the half-ear to him. The man quickly got on his feet.


    "Have you ever shot one of these before?" Aeric was showing him one of the guide''s crossbow.


    "No, never."


    "Well, we¡¯re changing that now and another one of your group. We would be moving tomorrow and you need to armed. The Howling Jungle is dangerous and I cannot protect all of you." Aeric explained.


    "I understand. I will learn quickly. Amon, come, our rescuer has a gift for us. By the way, sir, might we know our benefactor''s name?" Aeric forgot to introduce himself earlier but that could be easily forgiven. He was busy.


    "Of course. My name is Aeric Baltazar, Jungle dweller and occasional scout." Aeric grinned at that. Few could say that they could live in the jungle and be comfortable with it.


    "Thank you for sharing your name. I am Tinu, the other man beside the fire is Kusaba. This here is Amon." Tinu placed a hand over the shoulder of the man that stood beside him. Amon was almost a head shorter than Tinu. He has an angular face that was all jaw and cheekbones. The man''s hair was cut to a stubble and he could see a rough scar running from his forehead to the top of his head. Aeric stopped his observation when Tinu continued his introductions.


    "The woman with the bruise on her face is named Mella and the other is named Piyesa. Both of them were house slaves that had been unfortunate enough to be sold to Se?or Miguel. He treated them worse than us."


    ¡°He¡¯s not going to hurt anyone again.¡± Aeric replied in a low voice which made Tinu paused. Amon just nodded at the statement.


    ¡°What are your plans now, Se?or Amon? That is, if you would allow us to know?¡± Tinu was being careful. Aeric felt that the former slave didn¡¯t want to offend him. Aeric tried to reassure the man by sitting down by the fire so that everybody could hear him. Kusaba moved over to give him some space on the log.


    ¡°I¡¯ll be taking a look at your wounds after we move the bodies away from the camp. There are dangerous predators in the jungle. We don¡¯t want them to follow the smell of blood here. I¡¯ll ask two of you to help me with that and the other to start working on removing the meat from the pig. I have some herbs in my pack that I could rub on it with the salt you¡¯ve brought to cure it overnight. It would make for a tasty meal compared to the jerky most travelers eat. We would stay here for the night but we¡¯ll be leaving when the morning comes. We do not know until when your hunting party would be expected to return but we could not risk having a search party catch us. I just killed a noble and freed some slaves. Agoutian law will find me hanging by the gibbet before the end of a ten-day. Cornago is a few days¡¯ walk from here. We¡¯ll take it slow to allow you people to regain some of your strength. From there, the city officials will take care of you.¡± While the group digested that, Aeric handed Amon one of the crossbows. For the next few knuckles, he instructed the man on how to care for it. After he was satisfied that the man knew how to hold it properly, he had him pass the weapon to Tinu, who listened carefully during the instruction. Tinu was a fast learner and was able to repeat the instructions fairly quickly.


    Once Aeric was satisfied that they were well-informed on how to care for the weapon, he told Amon to look for a sack and fill it with deadfall leaves. While Amon was doing that, Aeric had Tinu put away the weapons and work with him in dragging the bodies away. He passed by the fire to ask Kusaba to start cutting the pig and for the women to feed the dogs with some pieces of it.


    It took about two bells before everything was done. The night was starting to get deeper and everybody was tired. Aeric and Tinu had to drag the bodies quite a ways from the camp to avoid predators from getting curious. Tinu asked if they had to bury the bodies but Aeric said no. The denizens of the jungle would take care of it. There would probably be nothing left by tomorrow. It was almost midnight when everything needed to be done was finished. Mella and Piyesa did an outstanding job cleaning up after the raid and the camp looks immaculate. Kusaba finished stripping the pig of all of its meat and placed the still dripping slabs on a canvass on the ground. Aeric went back to retrieve his pack from the bushes where he hid earlier and opened it. He always keeps a small pouch of herbs to add to his food when camping out. There was not a lot but it was enough to add some flavor to the meat. He rubbed it on the freshly-butchered meat then generously sprinkled it with the salt the party had brought. Kusaba then wrapped the canvas over it and stored it away to allow the salt and herbs to permeate the meat. Tomorrow, they will smoke it to make some tasty traveling jerky. Kusaba threw the leftover carcass of the pig to the hounds as well as the remains of their meal. The hounds pounced on it and crunching sounds could be heard as the pack settled down.


    Aeric checked on Amon and saw that the man had two sacks filled to the brim with leaves. Aeric had him tie the open ends close. He then took the two sacks and looked for a low-lying branch. He found a small tree with a branch about head high and placed the sacks on the branch, leaning on the trunk. He then secured them with some spare riding straps and counted about forty paces. The hunting crossbow could hit effectively double that range but he wanted to make sure that the group could shoot properly first before ranging farther.


    Once the improvised target range was set up, he called for Tinu and Amon. The two were resting with the others by the campfire.


    ¡°I know all of you are tired but this cannot wait. We will spend half a bell in practicing your aim with the crossbow. It is not a difficult weapon to use. You being able to protect yourselves would allow me and Titan to move freely, meeting the biggest threat. Both of you will be protecting the group with these crossbows while we travel. It is essential that you can actually fletch your marks. We will practice again tomorrow before we set out but for now, Tinu, come and watch.¡±


    Aeric then demonstrated how to load the crossbow. It was one of the new ones that used a spanning hook to pull the string back. During his militia days, Aeric was issued a heavier and older model of what he was holding right now. He had to wear thick gloves to avoid string cuts from constant loading. The newer models like what the guides were using have stronger yet more flexible wood so it was not as hard to span. The spanner just improved the process.


    Aeric stepped on the stirrup then took a knee. He then hooked the spanner on the string then pulled the same time he stood up. He dropped the latch securing the string on the trigger mechanism. He then loaded the crossbow with one of the mediocre quarrels of the guide¡¯s then set the stock of crossbow snugly on his shoulder. He provided instructions while he demonstrated how to aim. Lead foot in front, slightly shifting your weight forward, using the target marker to aim, then squeezing the trigger. The quarrel zipped through the air and thunked on the tree. The target was cleanly hit, the quarrel embedded in the middle.


    Aeric looked back to make sure that his students understood what had happened then repeated the process, this time at combat quickness. A trained crossbowman could load, aim, and shoot a light crossbow three times under a knuckle. The hunting crossbow he was using was harder to load but it has greater range so about two times in what Aeric was thinking. He will be satisfied in the two men could do one under a knuckle.


    Aeric gave them three quarrels each and stood by as they tried their hand on it. They struggled in loading the crossbows a bit but that was expected. The muscles needed to do that smoothly needs to be developed. When both of them had their weapons loaded properly, they each took their shots, Tinu firing first. Both of them missed their targets and Aeric had them try again. This time, both were able to hit the sacks after a couple of adjustments. Aeric left them to their devices after a reminder to retrieve the quarrels and not use the others. They only have about thirty-three for all of them.


    While both men were killing the sack over and over, Aeric called for Kusaba. The man was broader across the shoulders and could see that the man has a bit of muscle on him.


    ¡°Yes, Se?or?¡± Aeric was surprised by the man¡¯s deep voice. He has a slight twang at the end of his words that informed Aeric that he was not a native Agoutian.


    ¡°Don¡¯t think I¡¯ve forgotten about you. Here, hold this.¡± Aeric handed him his arrow and the atlatl he had on his belt. Kusaba looked at the arrow then at the atlatl then looked at Aeric with confusion.


    ¡°I watched you, while I was staking your party. You¡¯re strong and quick on your feet. What are your normal duties before joining this hunt?¡±


    ¡°I was a runner for Se?or Miguel¡¯s blacksmith. I pick up deliveries of ingots and coal for the smith and also run the blower when his apprentices are busy.¡± The man answered. Well, that explains it. Running around with a cart full of metals then pumping forge blowers the entire day will build your muscles. Aeric suspects that the man was naturally quick on his feet. Running errands does not account for his movements.


    ¡°I will teach you how to throw an arrow. The wooden contraption you have on your hand with the strap attached to it will help you throw it harder and faster. You will be carrying the boar spear as well as that arrow when we move tomorrow. Your main job will be to protect the group and to block any that approaches.¡± Aeric could see that the man was nervous and was biting his lips. Kusaba looked at the practicing duo then to the arrow in his hands.


    ¡°I¡¯ve never fought before, se?or. I do not know if I could do what you ask.¡± He blurted. Kusaba was looking anxious yet he gripped the arrow tightly.


    ¡°I¡¯m not asking you to fight anybody. You just need to keep those who attack away from you. Titan and I will take care of them. That¡¯s why you have that arrow in your hand. If you hit your target right, most of what you hit will either be dead or heavily wounded by the time they reach you, making them easy prey. Understand?¡± Aeric placed his hands on the man¡¯s shoulders and tried to instill confidence in him. Kusaba took a deep breath and closed his eyes as he exhaled slowly. When he opened his eyes to look at Aearic, his eyes were hard with determination. Aeric smiled internally, happy that the former slave¡¯s spirit was not completely broken by his former overlords.


    Aeric instructed the man on how to use the atlatl and how to throw without it in case there is no time. Kusaba was a natural with the arrow and was able to hit the nearby tree at first try. He was even better with the atlatl. Aeric was surprised on how hard the man can throw with it.


    Aeric called the women to join him and Kusaba and went to the hobbled striders to relieve them of the spears. The mounts stayed put during the entire ruckus earlier, showing their training. Aeric gave each one a reassuring pat and he could see eyes half-closing in content. Aeric could make out Titian¡¯s massive form just behind the striders, dozing but ears swiveling. The stone dog never sleeps deeply when out in the jungle. Aeric walked over and gave the stone dog a good scratch behind the ear. Titan¡¯s hind leg started involuntarily kicking, amusing him.


    Aeric brought back three spears and handed it out. He gave the heavier one with the broad leaf spear tip to Kusaba. He turned to the women and looked at them, trying to see how they react to holding the spears. All three of them were holding the spears like they were using it as a walking stick but the women were particularly unsure about the weapon in their hands.


    ¡°Mella, Piyesa, Tinu told me that both of you were house slaves. I cannot fathom the hardships that both of you have endured but that is over now. You now have the chance to start over. The question is, will you fight for that chance? I have given you weapons. Will you use it?¡± This is an important question. Most house slaves have had their spirit broken to the degree that they are no more than husks, following orders their masters give them. Most cannot imagine taking arms against those who own them and would balk at the idea, so savagely they are treated.


    Both of the women looked at the spear they had in their hands and Aeric waited, letting them come to grips with it. He can only teach them, he could not make them fight with it if their spirit is not in it. He would put them in the middle of the group and the hounds would protect them. Still, it would dramatically improve their safety if the women could fight.


    The women looked at each other then Piyesa, a short woman with long, jet black hair moved to hug Mella. The other woman sank into the embrace and Aeric could hear some sniffles. Aeric was starting to feel uncomfortable when the women released each other.


    Mella, still sniffing and her large bruise darkening her face in the firelight, stepped forward.


    ¡°We will fight, se?or. Piyesa and I don¡¯t know how bad we would be but we had enough of Agoutia. We will die before we let ourselves be taken.¡± Mella¡¯s melodic and soft voice belies the steel underneath. She had made a decision and would stick with it. Aeric could see that Piyesa was also committed to it, bowing to Aeric.


    ¡°Wonderful! Let us make sure that if they want you, they will pay for it with blood. All three of you, both hands on the spear.¡±


    Aeric gave them brief instructions in using the spear. He focused more on teaching them how to present themselves as multiple opponents, having Kusaba stay in front of the aggressor while ladies move to the sides, presenting multiple angles of attack. Aeric taught them how to make short, quick stabs with the spear, admonishing them not to over-extend themselves while using it.


    Once they¡¯ve learned the basics, Aeric had them flip their spears over to have the butts forward. He stepped up and took a fighting stance in front of them, spear butt at the forefront too.


    ¡°Come, show me what you have learned.¡±


    The trio started off tentatively, making small advances and weak stabs. Aeric let that play for a few moments before he quickly stepped in and made quick stabs at Kusaba while sweeping left and right at the women. They panicked and moved back, waving their spears around.


    ¡°Keep those spears forward! The tip is what keeps your opponent away. Mella, Piyesa, moved to my left. Force your opponent to reach over to attack you. Kusaba, use that spear you have. It¡¯s longer than mine. Stab with it. Short, quick stabs.¡±


    After the initial surprise, the trio slowly got comfortable in using the spear and was able to follow instructions better. Aeric changed targets occasionally, facing one person to the next. It allowed the trio to learn how to adapt their teamwork in facing an attacker. Everytime Aeric faced a different opponent, the other two would spread out, forcing Aeric to guard three angles of attack. They were able to tag Aeric a couple of time before Aeric called for a halt. He also had Tinu and Amon stop shooting. They have been training for half a bell and it was nowhere enough but it would have to do. They at least know the basics and would be enough to protect themselves.


    The three with the spear dropped on the ground, gasping for air. Aeric was reminded that these were not healthy, active villagers. He waved at the group to rest themselves by the fire. He leaned his spear on the nobleman¡¯s tent and rummaged around his pack. He retrieved a leather pouch from it then joined the resting group.


    ¡°Good work. I know it was exhausting and you already had a long day but you need to learn how to fight. I will now take a look at your wounds and when I¡¯m done, I want all of you to turn for the night. Tinu and I will take the smaller tent. The rest of you can sleep in the nobleman¡¯s.¡±


    ¡°Isn¡¯t the bigger tent much more comfortable, se?or? You should take it.¡± Mella said. The others agreed.


    ¡°Again, you¡¯re not slaves now. You better start practicing on thinking you are equal with other freemen. I¡¯ll be fine in the other tent. Besides, all of us will not fit in one.¡± Aeric observed them as they absorbed what he said. It will take time for them to accept that they are no longer living on the whims of others. They will learn how to appreciate themselves, eventually.


    Aeric placed the pouch on the table beside the fire. He opened it and started taking out pastes and small bottles full of liquids. Bandages and clean cloth followed as he spread them on the surface. Tinu¡¯s eyes grew larger and the others made exclamations of surprise. Aeric was startled by the noise and looked at them.


    ¡°You are a healer, se?or?¡±


    ¡°Of a sorts. I dabble at healing. I could cure simple ailments, set broken bones, sew flesh closed, make salves for bruising and the likes. Why? Do not the nobles have house healers too?¡±


    ¡°Yes, they do, se?or, but it is a cherished profession. To find a healer wielding a weapon with such competence is unheard of in Agoutia. There are never enough healers and they are always kept safe. An Agoutian healer can live a life of excess with his skills. The art of healing is guarded jealously, many try to get anapprenticeship with a healer only to be refused. You can become a very wealthy man in Agoutia, se?or.¡± Tinu explained.


    ¡°Well, I¡¯m content here in the jungle, thank you. Also, I want nothing to do with people who enslave others. I¡¯d probably poison than heal them if forced to.¡± Aeric was half joking but he probably will poison any Agoutian is they are all like Se?or Miguel.


    ¡°Why do you live in thejungle, se?or? Is the city not more comfortable?¡± Piyesa asked. I was gently applying some salve on Mella¡¯s bruise but was still attentive to their questions.


    ¡°Comfortable is where you find it. I find the city constricting. There is always something I have to do. I have to pay taxes, make nice with my neighbors, follow the city watch¡¯s direction and much more. Here, in the jungle, I am the king of my own world. Nobody can tell me what to do. I am outside Idacan lands so the king has no rights to me. If I want to eat, I can hunt for my food. If I want to piss, I can look for the nearest tree, if I want to laze around all day, I can well damn do so. Nobody here can dictate to me how to live my life. Granted, it is dangerous here. There are always predators and bandits roaming around but if you are smart, prepared, and not attached to material wealth, the Howling Jungle could be home.¡± It has been for Aeric. Eleven years of living off the jungle. Aeric could not imagine living in a city, swarming with people and its horrible smell. His monthly visit for supplies is enough for him.


    After asking a couple more question, the group quieted down. Most of them were still processing how they were slaves a few bells ago and they are now free people. In thecase of Kusaba, he was already nodding off.


    Aeric finished treating the numerous scratches and bruises of the group. He also applied a paste on Amon¡¯s left leg. He had a prior injury that was not treated properly and it was in danger of infection. He cleaned the weeping wound and applied a healing paste that will combat the infection. He then wrapped it with a bandage, ensuring a tight wrap.


    The group was tired and it was deep in the night. Aeric did one more circuit around the camp to check on the striders and Titian. The animals were comfortable enough and the hounds were already sleeping. Aeric bid the group good night and advised them to get as much sleep as they can. Titan will be on watch tonight. He entered the tent and stripped in preparation for sleeping. Tinu entered a moment later, surrendering to him the guide¡¯s sleeping roll. The former slave has told him he was used to sleeping on the ground but Aeric would have none of it. He gave the man the dead guide¡¯s cloak and had him use it cushion his body, even if only a little bit. Tinu didn¡¯t protest and just thank Aeric. Both of them laid on their spots and were asleep shortly after.

 The Green Sea

    The next morning, Aeric and the freed slaves were woken from their slumber by loud howling emanating from the forest. Aeric was used to hearing the calls of the howlers and was not bothered by it. Tinu has not heard of such primal calls before and awoke with a loud gasp. The calls of the howlers are well-known for its loudness and its deep timbre.


    Tinu sat up quickly, eyes wide and darting around, looking for threats. He unwrapped himself from the cloak he was using to soften the ground he was sleeping on and crawled towards the softly snoring Aeric.


    "Se?or, se?or, are we in danger?"


    The frantic, whispery voice of Tinu woke Aeric from his rest. He found the man crouched low beside him, rubbing his hands in anxiety.


    Aeric sat up and yawned loudly. He cracked his neck sat there with his eyes closed for a moment, fighting off the fog of sleep.


    "Se?or?"


    It seems like Tinu would not allow him to go back to sleep. He opened his eyes and gave the rattled man a small smile.


    "Good morning, Tinu. Yes, we are safe. Howlers are only a danger if you invade their space by approaching a family. The howling you are hearing right now is their way of scaring off predators and to announce their territory to other howler families. Besides, they don''t like open spaces. The camp will be fine. Now, check on the others. If you are what I am to go by, they are probably panicking right now. Once they are reassured, start the campfire and get us some water. We have a long way ahead of us."


    Tinu nodded then crawled back to his spot. He put on his new shoes then exited the small tent. The humid yet cool air of early morning entered through the open flap, filling the tent with the fresh smell of greenery. Aeric loved the smell of the jungle. It always helped clear his mind and remind him that the beauty of nature does not have to be strictly on how it looks like.


    With Tinu busy with the others, Aeric took the time to take stock of himself. He was not injured during yesterday''s raid, so that is a relief. He might know a thing or two about healing but most of what he learned about health is how to keep your body in good shape. It was something the militia had taught him and was expanded upon when he worked briefly with his town''s wisewoman.


    He still has his spear but he has lost his arrow and atlatl to Kusaba. That was not a problem. Bamboo is plentiful in the Howling Jungle and Aeric knows the perfect place to harvest some good quality ones. He would make a couple more arrows but not for him. He now owns a much better ranged weapon. Aeric looked at the well-made crossbow placed on top of a small sack. If he could trade for or purchase some war shot quarrels, he would be much better prepared in confronting an armored foe.


    Aeric silently chuckled at the thought. Since he came to living below the canopy of the green sea, he has yet to find the need for armor piercing weaponry. Most of what he battles are covered in fur and hide. Titan is probably the most well-protected creature in the jungle.


    Speaking of the stone dog, a massive muzzle poked itself through the tent flap. Titan''s head followed inside, sniffing around the small space. The stone dog whined since it couldn''t get to Aeric. The tent was too small to accommodate something of his size.


    "Here now, what are you whining about?" Aeric got up from his bedroll to scratch behind the dog''s ears. Titan''s eyes squinted in pleasure, his tongue lolling on the side. It is during these times that the stone dog reminds Aeric of his smaller cousins.


    As the story goes, stone dogs were the product of the hubris of Agoutian war mages. In their insatiable quest to find more and more ways to make war, some long-dead mage had a bright idea of taking a wolfhound and making it the size of ahorse. The mage argued that the dog would be the perfect war steed. Quick on its feet, dangerous to face, and extremely loyal. What they didn''t count on was the growth of its intelligence during the experimentation in developing the breed. The process was supposedly a very painful one for the dogs under their care. Once they have perfected the procedure, the mages casted their magic on a pack of three hundred dogs, plentiful enough to test their mettle in battle. The casting took a lot from the mages because it required an enormous amount of energy and concentration. They were greatly weakened during the procedure and were extremely vulnerable. One of the smarter wolfhounds took advantage of that. Just as the last dog was transmuted, the alpha of the pack led the large, angry wolfhounds to attack their tormentors. The mages couldn''t defend themselves and were not prepared for such a situation. There are still some people that say that the blood of the war mages still stains the war college in Agoutia.


    "We have a big day today, boy. We''ll be helping these people to the city so behave. They are friends now. Understand? friends." Aeric held the stone dog''s jaw in his hands so that he could stare at his soft, brown eyes. He made sure that the dog understood him before giving him a quick pat on the snout then shoving him outside. Titan backed out of the tent flap he was blocking and padded his way towards the hounds. It seems like the hounds had made peace with the larger creature and were jumping and yipping at the arriving stone dog. Titan strode among them, not paying attention to the hounds as they nudged at him while presenting their bellies. They have a new pack leader now.


    Aeric stood outside the tent with his spear in hand and crossbow clipped to his belt. He decided not to wear the sword since he didn''t actually know how to use it and that would just feed his ego. He doesn''t need to impress anybody here in the jungle.


    Aeric took a deep breath as he surveyed the camp. The larger tent disgorged the others as they filed out into the morning light. It was yet early in the morning so the brightness of the sun does not bring with it the heat but that would change soon.


    The group approached Aeric while he stood there. Aeric frowned when he noticed that they were keeping their eyes on the ground. He understood that it was slave training to not look at your betters in the eye but that is dangerous out in the wild.


    "Keep your heads up. Eyes on the horizon. Danger would come from the trees once we enter the jungle. There is no need to stare at the ground. I know it would take some doing but we are going to work on that for the next few days." Aeric said.


    The group was a little surprised then understanding dawned in their face. The idea that they were no longer slaves is more than saying it. The days ahead would be hard for the group when they arrive at the port city. Their caretakers for the initial months of their stay there would have their work cut out for them as they try to make the group unlearn their slave training. The Agoutians nodded or verbally affirmed but Aeric doubted that it would happen anytime soon.


    "Alright, time to get to work. Tinu and Amon, please start packing up the things we will need from the camp. We have three striders we can use so you can load them up. We would be traveling by foot. Kusaba, take out the meat we''ve set to cure last night and make a smoker for it. There''s a lot of meat to jerk so make it a good size one. Mella and Piyesa, let''s go and check up on our animals. The striders and the hounds could probably do with some water."


    Our small group moved around the camp, doing our duties. Tinu and Amon weren''t so sure as to what qualifies as something necessary other than food and water so they constantly had to check with Aeric. The striders are strong animals and could carry everything, they did so coming here, but it would be best to keep them lightly burdened. They have four days of travel ahead of them. They would last longer with a lighter load. Kusaba went to the nearby underbrush to collect some deadfall for the smoker. He lashed together some poles made from branches he cleaned to make a typical smoking rack. He then used some of the canvas to wrap around the poles to concentrate the smoke coming out from the fire pit he made underneath the rack. It was done neatly and efficiently. It would take about four bells before the meat would be done. By then, Aeric was expecting that they would be ready to leave.


    While the men were busy with their camp duties, Aeric and the women took a look at the hounds. They look like they were doing well, rolling around on the ground playing with each other. Titan had situated himself in the middle of the pack, laying there like a bitch with her pups. Mella and Piyesa looked at Aeric for reassurance as they were wary of approaching the stone dog. Titan made their lives easier by getting up and moving to greet the women. Mella made a small squeak when Titan stood before her. She closed her eyes and stood frozen in fear. Her eyes flew open with surprise when Titan bathed her face with his long tongue, giving her a good lick. He then nudged her in her breast, asking for some petting. Mella hesitantly reached out her arm then slowly rubbed the stone dog''s head. Titan''s squinting eyes evidenced his pleasure, putting the woman more at ease. He then repeated the same greeting with Piyesa. She was more willing to touch the stone dog after watching the interaction between Titan and Mella.


    With both women more comfortable with the stone dog in their midst, both Mella and Piyesa corralled the hounds before Aeric. He could see that there were no visible impediments in the movement of the hounds but he wanted to check them to be sure.


    Aeric learned about animal care from one of the cattle ranchers bordering the jungle. When Titan first came into his care, he had no idea on how to address the injured stone dog pup. There were some cuts and bruises along its body and some of the injuries were weeping blood. He was thinking of leaving the pup to the mercy of the jungle but the whining little thing tugged at his heart strings. There was a family of cattle ranchers living a couple of day''s travel from his home so Aeric decided to take a trip there and see if he could find some help. If they were not able to treat the pup, then the pup was destined to enter Gaia''s embrace. In the three days he took to get there, Aeric had cared for the pup at the best of his knowledge. He used a small pouch to carry the injured stone dog and fed him bits and pieces of his meals. The pup was old enough to be able to eat solid food but only if it was softened.


    Aeric arrived at the ranch mid afternoon of the third day. The ranch was a sprawling affair, a largish stone home with an attached stable in the middle of a large, flat land. Aeric noticed and approved of the work done on the land. There were no stumps and most of the larger stones have been removed to maximize the space. Grass grows quick in the tropics so by the time the herd had worked itself to one end of the property, the other side would have tall, green grass available for grazing.


    The rancher and his family greeted Aeric by the steps. He had met them before, trading hide and herbs for some worked leather. The owner of the land is an older man, gray streaks running down his hair and beard. He was shocked to see Aeric with a stone dog pup. These creatures are normally owned and bred by the nobility. To see a hermit with such a noble creature was like seeing a street urchin owning an imperial war horse.


    Aeric showed them the injured, and probably, sick pup and asked if there was anything they could do. The mistress of the home was knowledgeable in hound care since they use hounds to protect their herds. They agreed to help the pup and teach Aeric on how to care for it if he could get rid of the duskwalker that had been stalking their cows. Aeric agreed and set out to trap the creature. He left the stone dog to the rancher''s ministrations.


    Duskwalkers are bipedal, cold-blooded hunters that normally live a solitary life. They only meet others of their kind once a year to mate. Duskwalkers have thick, scaly hides and long serrated claws that they use to disembowel their prey. They are nominally ambush predators, they keep themselves behind bushes or trees. Their wide mouths are filled with half a finger''s length of teeth. Some made the comment that duskwalkers look like walking sharks, if they had arms and claws.


    Aeric returned two days later with the hide of the duskwalker. It didn''t take him long to find it. Killing it proved to the more challenging task. Duskwalkers are strong, fast in a straight chase, and vicious in a fight. Their main failing is their stupidity and single-mindedness. Aeric trapped a long-tooth deer early in the hunt and used the animal as bait. When the duskwalker pounced on the hobbled deer, Aeric threw an arrow at it from his constructed low platform on a tree. It didn''t penetrate too deeply because of the duskwalker''s thick hide but it did slow it enough that he was able to drop on it from above, killing it with his spear.


    The rancher was happy that the threat to his herd was gone and his wife immediately set to teaching Aeric how to care for hounds and their ilk. She used their ranch hounds to demonstrate some caring practices and showed Aeric how to heal the stone dog pup properly. A couple more days and the pup was showing signs of energy, playing with the family hound. When Aeric finally left for home, the pup was able to walk beside him for short periods of time. Aeric never questioned how he came about to finding a lone stone dog in the middle of the jungle. He said as much to the rancher who offered to buy Titan, which he declined. All he knows is that he found a companion to make his jungle life more comfortable.


    In the years that followed, Aeric would make a trek a couple of times a year to the ranch to trade for some metalwork or leather. Nails, hinges, and modern tools he cannot make for himself. He paid them back with rare herbs and the occasional predator-clearing work. He became friendly with the rancher family. It still warms his heart every time he sees the orderly stone house whenever he visits.


    Aeric snapped out of his nostalgia as one of the hounds sniffed at his feet. Aeric smiled and crouched down to present a smaller form, making himself look less of a threat and more of a friend. He let the hound approach him on its own accord while speaking nothings in a soft tone. Eventually, the hound must have decided that he was not there to hurt it as it allowed Aeric to pet it.Stolen content alert: this content belongs on Royal Road. Report any occurrences.


    Aeric repeated the process with the other hounds while checking them for sickness. They were all well-fed and energetic but he did notice that the hounds were coughing and vomiting at times. That normally is a sign of worms in their body. Calling Mella and Piyesa to sit beside him, he started instructing them in the rudimentary ways of detecting sickness in hounds and what are the possible cures for it. Thankfully, most of the medicine they would need can be found in the jungle, if you know where to look for.


    "Se?or, you fight and also heal. Is there no need of your skills in the city?" Mella asked as she rubbed the tummy of a brown-spotted hound on her feet.


    "In Idaca, all men of sixteen years are to serve in the army. I''ve served as a hastati, that is a raw recruit, for my town''s militia until I finished my second year. After that, I was made peditatus, an infantryman, for three more. Our town''s militia was mostly used to chase bandits and guard the cities when the legionnaires are away fighting somebody. We are to serve five years or face imprisonment and branding. I''ve learned to heal mostly just to keep myself from getting sick since my family at that time was poor and cannot afford a healer.


    So you see, there is no lack of fighting men in Idaca. In fact, there are too many of us. Most that come back from the battlefield have lost a limb or an eye, making them undesirables. Agoutia is always pushing and testing our borders, trying to look for weakness and an excuse to go to war. the Idacan lands are half the size of Agoutia. We have to conscript or face invasion.


    Like I''ve said last evening, my living in the jungle is of my own free will. The city has lost its appeal to me. I''ve come to love the simplicity of living in the wild. It marks me as an odd one in the eyes of most Idacans, even among my siblings, but I''m content. Besides, I still serve in my own way. I report strange soldiers that brave the jungle to the local garrison captain in Cornago. Also, you are not the first group of slaves I''vehad helped make it to Idacan lands. Salvaci¨®n is about a ten-day trip from here. Many had crossed under the green canopies to find freedom."


    Mella listened closely to Aeric''s reasoning. It has not come to a surprise to him. Most people associate jungle-living hermits as unsociable, moon-crazed old men. Granted, he hasn''t told her the other reasons why he was in the jungle but he chose not to burden her with that.


    Piyesa cleared her throat to get Aeric''s attention.


    "Yes, Piyesa. No need for subtlety. Just ask if you need something." Aeric said with a grin to the abashed woman.


    "Well, se?or, I was just wondering about you saying you report to a, what is it? a captain? I am not familiar of this title. Mella and I were house slaves and have become familiar with the ranks of the soldiery of Idaca. We normally overhear the nobles talk about, or curse, the legionnaires of Idaca but never heard of this title."


    That was a revelation to Aeric. The women were not just some mute slaves that sit in a corner agonizing about their station in life. They actually educated themselves from overheard conversations. This is good for them.


    "Very observant, Piyesa. Yes, Captain is the rank and it is a new one. A year after my 5-year service, the Idacan senate went through a period of reformation. The old senate body was abolished and was replaced by a meritocracy patterned after a council-guided monarchy. So we have a king, but the king could be replaced by anybody deemed worthy by the council after a period of at least ten years of rule. There are the Laws of the Land that is immune to royal decree so even if they change the king every year, the basic rights of the land would be upheld.


    Under this new form of government, the army also was restructured. Gone now are the old ranks and obsolete practices. A number of our well-traveled Legates brought back new knowledge in the military arts from the nations across the sea. Many things have changed in the army, and the ranks are the least of them. I am not fully informed of how much it has changed since it has been a long time since I''ve held a spear for the king. I suspect you''ll know more once you''re settled in Cornago."


    The hounds will be fine after a few days of medication. Aeric would be mixing some powdered Gallata roots in their food to kill their worm infestation.


    After looking after the hounds, he asked that the women check on the striders. Aeric has very little contact with the creatures. They would know better how to care for them than him. Aeric could see that the camp was halfway torn down. Tinu and Amon were working in tandem to pack everything they could possibly need. He had to advise them to leave some things since where they are going, they''re not going to need a lot.


    The air was starting to warm up as the sun moves higher in the sky. A light sheen of sweat formed on Aeric''s face while he gave a hand here and there in clearing the camp. It amused him that he was rendered mostly useless in this. The Agoutains work fast, efficient, and without complaint. It took half a bell before everything was packed and ready to go. The meat still has some time to smoke on the rack so Aeric had the group training with their weapons. Aeric had Tinu and Amon move their targets to sixty paces and worked with the other three on their polearms. Aeric had them practice presenting a firmer front in case of larger creatures or more proficient foes such as trained fighters. He primarily focused on having two engage from the front while the other circle towards the offhand to flank. Aeric had them move around and switch roles while he attacked them with the butt of his spear. There is a lot left to be desired with their handling but Aeric is confident that to a man, they could handle an enemy equipped with a shorter weapon and middling skill.


    The morning was getting on and the meat was about done. Aeric tried a strip of jerky and was pleased with the result. The herbs worked itself in the meat, giving it a slightly earthy taste.


    Aeric ended the weapons training and had the Agoutiansready for travel.


    The bright sunlight was already becoming uncomfortable when they left. It was a relief for Aeric to be under the canopy of the Howling Jungle. The humid air ensured that everybody was sweating but it was familiar discomfort for Aeric. It was not unpleasant for him. They had only been traveling for two bells and he could see that his companions were breathing heavy and soaked their clothes through with sweat. They''ve already finished off one skin of water. Aeric almost gagged when he drank from one of the skins. The water was stale and has a peculiar taste that he didn''t care for at all.


    The group has entered a small glade dotted with clumps of bamboo trees. There were some areas covered with them in the Howling Jungle but they can generally be found everywhere. Aeric called for a stop and let the group rest. He realized that the Agoutians have very little experience in walking through a thick jungle and it was sapping their energy quickly.


    A small stream meandered through the clearing. The small, tired group halted by its bank. Aeric took the axe from one of the lead strider''s bags and went to the nearest bamboo growths.


    Finding a size that he liked, Aeric cut the bamboo into segments, ensuring that each segment has its membrane intact. He worked each of the six segments that he had cut has one end closer to the membrane and the other cleared of it. Using his hunting knife, Aeric cut a small lip on the opened end then shook the segment to rid of it of splinters and shavings.


    Aeric brought the worked segments back to the group and gave each one a segment of their own.


    "Ah, se?or?" Amon asked, looking confused with his bamboo segment.


    "I don''t like how our water taste. This is how I carry water and I wanted to share it with you. I gave each one of you your own so if you want to use it, you can."


    Aeric dipped his bamboo bottle in the stream and filled it with fresh water. He drank from the lip and covered the open hole with a small wooden plug he retrieved from his old one that he threw.


    "This way, my water would not taste strange." Aeric said with a smile. The others'' interest were piqued and they all tried their water bottles. The group was visibly pleased as they all smiled on how the water didn''t have the taste of leather or hide. Aeric helped them find the appropriate fibrous wood to make into small plugs.


    "Bamboos are excellent crafting materials. I''ve used bamboo for all sorts of things. I even use it to cook rice, when I could afford to buy some from the city, that is. It''s light in weight and is readily available here, in the Howling Jungle." Aeric waved at the cluster of bamboo hugging the stream bank.


    "We do not have such plants, se?or. We have just recently arrived at Salvaci¨®n with se?or Miguel. Across the sea in Eksamia, we have tall trees that grow to great heights. They are at least three men in width and is very hard to cut. Our forests are as big as what we have seen here, se?or but not as dense. It is very difficult for us to move here. Even the heat and humidity makes breathing a battle." Mella''s soft voice was tinged with exhaustion. She was working on her legs, massaging the knots that have formed.


    "It is also much more dangerous from what we have heard, se?or. We have seen a terrifying creature when we first entered the jungle. Our master was able to scare it away and we''ve only seen it from a distance but it was horrible." Kusaba''s wide eyes evidenced his fear for it.


    "You''ve probably seen a duskwalker. They''re the only predator here that presents a danger to skilled woodsmen. We also have some spitter snakes and howler-eating eagles but they give people a wide berth. Do not worry, Titan can smell duskwalkers from far off and if we do stumble into one, I am confident that we could handle it, together." Aeric shook the spear in his hand, reminding the others that they are properly armed too.


    Aeric made sure that they understood that they would face challenges together. Making them feel as worthy comrades in a group will help them think that they are valued, not just some walking furniture. Titan also helped by showing some affection to the Agoutians. He would lick at them or whine for a petting once in a while when he fades in back to the group after scouting from the front. That simple action of petting the stone dog made the Agoutians smile and appreciate the fact that nothing is asked of them, just a touch of a hand on the head.


    "Come, Kusaba. Let me show you how to make an arrow for that atlatl you have." Aeric thrust out his arm, helping the man up.


    Together, they searched for an appropriately sized bamboo to make ammunition. The bamboo arrow has to be thin enough for it to be light and easily thrown but not too light that it would not have enough penetrating power. A bamboo arrow would be enough for any creature they would meet in the jungle. It could also down an unarmored man, as Aeric had done the previous night. Aeric instructed Kusaba on how to select a good, straight bamboo and how to cut it to a point. He let the man do it by himself and just stood by his side giving instructions. Aeric had him make two arrows and had them racked on the striders.


    The group spent a couple more knuckles before Aeric had them up and walking in short order. The day ended with them having to take two more breaks at two bell intervals but they made good time. With Titan scouting ahead, they were able to avoid any lurking predators and Aeric would drop back every so often to check on Kusaba, who he had guarding their rear. He had to admonish themto put eyes on the canopies regularly. It is a human failing. We as a species do not find it natural to look up.


    On the second day of their travel, Tinu walked abreast Aeric. They were in a particularly dense area of the jungle and they had to find their way around an impassable undergrowth.


    Aeric gave the man a nod and let him set the tone of the conversation. The Agoutians generally keep to themselves and this is the first time one of them have approached him for something not necessary.


    "May... I ask a question, se?or?"


    "Tinu, I ask for no toll for knowledge. How can I help you?"


    "My gratitude, se?or. I was wondering, why do you help us? Of course, we are in your debt and are very happy to no longer be slaves but, why? We do not have anything to give in return." Tinu hurriedly wanted to assure Aeric that they were ecstatic about their current freedom but was also apprehensive of being asked to give something they''re not in possession of. Damnable Agoutian slave culture.


    Aeric wanted to give the man as honest an answer he could give some he took some time to think about it deeply. Tinu walked beside him silently, giving him quick glances often to see if he was thinking or didn''t want to answer.


    "Why not?" Aeric finally said.


    "Se?or?"


    "I said, why not help you?"


    "Er... I don''t know?" Tinu''s face almost made Aeric laugh. He grinned at the bewildered man and opened his arm wide.


    "What is wrong in helping you? Granted, I originally thought of hiding and avoiding your hunting party when I heard those striders crashing through the jungle but then I saw that bastardo nobleman. I. Hate. Slavers. So, I waited until the dead of night before I introduced that drunken stolto to my spear.


    Once he was dead, all of you would have died in the jungle. Like what I have said multiple times before, the Howling Jungle is dangerous. It does not cost me anything to help you. In fact, I have more valuable possessions now than I have ever before.


    There is also my duty as an Idacan. I do not live within the kingdom but that does not erase the fact that more than half of my life I''ve lived under Idacan culture and law. To let you and the others die as slaves is abhorrent to me.


    Lastly, I do not live in the jungle because I hate people. I like people and visit my friends and associates regularly. I do not see others on a daily basis but do not mistake that for a dislike of companionship. I am enjoying your companionship right now. I''m no miser to ask for payment for knowledge that you will need to survive or make a life for yourself or some old hermit tired of others. I am simply doing what I feel is right and what I want." Aeric said, pleased with how well he was able to put his thoughts into words.


    Tinu listened and bobbed his head when Aeric made his points. The man was visibly pleased to hear that they were freed not out of need but due to a man''s principle and good intentions.


    "Thank you, se?or." Was all Tinu replied before he moved back to his place.


    The third day went faster as the Agoutians were becoming more used to the jungle. They still need breaks but they could travel at a more brisk pace. They would camp near the edge of the jungle tonight before they take the king''s highway to reach Cornago. Amon was able to shoot down a plump, bright red pheasant that they made into a stew. Piyesa was also able to dig up some sweet potatoes to add to the pot.


    The fourth day, they started early. Aeric wanted to reach the city before the gates closed. A good mug of ale tantalizing his thoughts. He has a favorite tavern that he often visits. He also considered that he would make a lot of money from this trip too. He planned to sell the nobleman''s small, ornate chest. There were some gems inside that he split with the Agoutians. They initially rejected and tried to give it to him but he insisted and shoved the gems back. He explained that city life in not cheap and it would go a long way in keeping them comfortable. They agreed, albeit reluctantly.


    Aeric must have been day dreaming because he was startled when Piyesa called for him.


    "Se?or, se?or!" She was talking softly but it was apparent that she didn''t want to bother Aeric if he was thinking.


    "Yes, Piyesa?" Instead of answering, the woman just pointed at the sky. The canopy was thinning out a bit now that they were in Idacan lands and Aeric noticed that the sky was dark. It was still noon so it shouldn''t be.


    Finding a more open space, Aeric could see that the sky was dark because of smoke. He frowned and halted the group. The smoke was too big for it to be a campfire and too far away for it to be the jungle. Besides, it is difficult to set the jungle on fire. There is too much moisture.


    Aeric had the group find a small clearing and had them rest.


    "Stay here. I have to check on something. I''ll be back in a couple of bells." Aeric announced to the resting group.


    "But, se?or! what if there is danger about? We are not familiar with this jungle." Kusaba''s concerned voice made the group''s thoughts known.


    "Titan will stay here to guard you. He can protect you if needed. Do not fear. I will not be gone long." The Agoutians watched as Aeric took Titan''s massive head and looked into his eyes.


    "I have to leave. I''ll be back soon. Protect the group, understand? Protect." Aeric pointed at the sitting Agoutians. Titan chuffed softly and nudged him on the chest. Satisfied, he waved to the group and left.


    Without the need to keep pace with the Agoutians, Aeric made good time walking through the jungle. It was less than a bell when he stopped at the treeline. Cornago had cleared a wide space of jungle surrounding the city to prevent being surprised by a hostile force.


    It did not help.


    Crouching behind tall grass, a file of soldiers patrolled the king''s highway. Aeric could see that these were Agoutians based on the light tabards they wore. The golden sword was emblazoned in the middle surrounded by a thorny wreath, the symbol of the Agoutian empire.


    Aeric watched them pass him by, they were riding mountain horses and were traveling towards the farmlands. Aeric waited a few more knuckles after they were out of sight before he climbed a tree to get a look at the city. It was still a ways off but very visible. His fears were founded.


    The city was under siege.

 Finding Home

    CHAPTER 3


    Aeric crept as close as he dared towards the encampment then climbed a nearby tree. The climb was slow and tiring but it ensured that his movements wouldn¡¯t be noticed.


    Once he was satisfied that he had a good sightline on the camp, Aeric settled himself on a largish branch, using the thick leaves as cover.


    The small camp was alive with Agoutian soldiers setting tents. The unit was comprised of twenty-four infanter¨ªa, four of which are rangers, based on their coats sewed with leaves and branches, imitating the surrounding greenery.


    The soldiers did not worry Aeric, it was the rangers that he was concerned with. They are well-trained in moving around trees and undergrowth, making them perfect scouts in the Howling Jungle. He doubted that he would be taken by surprised by the rangers. No matter how good they are, they are still no match for Titan. The stone dog would be able to detect them far sooner than they would be able to get wind of him. Aeric was slightly regretting that he left the stone dog with the Agoutinan Freemen but reasoned that he could defend himself if it comes to it. He was well-armed and trained and will be fighting in familiar surroundings. It¡¯s was the only reason why he had the gumption to sneak up on the Agoutian unit.


    Aeric saw the group making headway in the jungle on his way back towards his new friends. So consumed was he with the thoughts of Cornago¡¯s siege that he almost stumbled upon the unit. It was a good thing that he had sharp ears and noticed the clanking and banging of armor before they came upon him. He was able to quickly find a suitable tree and made himself scarce. It amused Aeric a little that he was climbing trees so often this past few days that it almost felt like natural for him to do so.


    The rangers were very competent in leading the unit. They were silent and efficient in how they move. Aeric could see the hard stares the rangers gave the untrained soldiers every time they made some noise but it was a lost cause. It takes a lot of preparation and training to move silently with metal strapped all over your body. He could see the teniente leading the group of soldiers give up and just admonished the rangers to get them as quickly as possible to their destination. There is no point in trying to make the untrained do something they cannot.


    The soldiers moved quickly, now that stealth was no longer a concern. It did not take them long before they reached the clearing that Aeric was now observing. He shadowed the group, wanting to ensure that they were not heading towards his unprepared comrades. There are few reasons why they are currently bumbling around the jungle. Either they are looking for someone or they¡¯re preventing someone from getting an eyeful on Cornago. There are probably some other reason that they might have come up with but Aeric couldn¡¯t think of anything else. Those were the only things that made sense to him. Looking at the rangers, they were not used to the humid and difficult jungle. They were sweating and tired, drinking copious amount of water. Most commanders would have acclimatized their soldiers first before having them do extensive operations in foreign lands but these people looked like they were fresh off their ships. The soldiers were already complaining how their armor were baking them from the inside and were requesting to remove them. Only the threat of their sargento whipping those who remove their armor quieted the group but not completely, there were some that were grumbling under their breath.


    Aeric was not familiar with how Agoutians soldiers conduct searches but he would bet that it would be a bit different of how Idacans do it. Idacans prefer to use small groups, grouping people of three or four into units, sending them to different parts of the jungle, working their way inward. Aeric had heard from an old campaigner that was assigned to his unit when he was in the militia that the Agoutians use superior numbers in most of their strategies. He heard talk about when a lady from one of the influential families in Salvaci¨®n got lost in the jungle after trying to meet a secret lover. The local hunters and garrison fanned the jungle, moving together at a slow pace until they found the lady, killed by a jungle cat.


    Taking that into account, Aeric surmised that that the soldiers below would eventually find his friends if they don¡¯t move. He does not believe that the soldiers were looking for them specifically, the death of the hunting party was just a few days ago and there were no witnesses to report Aeric¡¯s murder of the nobleman. He suspects that this is more to stymie any attempt to warn Pavia, the nearest garrisoned town.


    Satisfied that he had learned everything he could from the unit, Aeric silently descended from his perch and faded away behind the tall ferns. Once he was confident that he was far enough, Aeric started running. It was more akin to a fast jog than running, if somebody was to observe him. It¡¯s impossible to run akin to running on flat ground when moving between trees. The few times Aeric ran himself to a tree was enough to force him to learn to move better.


    It did not take him long before he was intercepted by Titan. Like always, the stone dog surprised him. He almost took a stab at his massive companion when he made himself known. The stone dog emerged from behind a small rise in the land, moments before Aeric would have passed it. His spear snapped up, his body crouching behind it, leaning forward onto a running charge. The panting stone dog just stood there, not at all bothered by the leveled spear. Aeric recognized titan and raised his spear but could not stop himself. He slammed on the side of the stone dog with a soft thump. He was thankful that the dog could control his natural armor. If Titan decided that he was threat, he could have hardened his fur and made Aeric¡¯s crash like smashing himself on a stone wall.


    ¡°Boy, one of these days I¡¯ll surprise you. Let¡¯s see how you like it then.¡± Aeric said as he leaned on Titan¡¯s side. The dog just licked him and sniffed his hair. Aeric spent a few moments petting the dog before he pushed him away.


    ¡°Right, time to leave, boy. Let¡¯s find our friends.¡± Grabbing fur, Aeric hauled himself astride the stone dog. Titan immediately shot off, running more smoothly than a human could ever do.


    Nearing their destination, Aeric had Titan slow down and got off from his mount. He cupped his hands and blew on it, the sound of the rainbow bird thrilling clearly in the surrounding trees. Aeric slowly made his way down the small hill until he came to a ditch. The ditch was a result of the land crumbling and it was the only way to safely navigate himself off the rise. He could see Kusaba below, spear ready and standing just off to the side of a large rock he could immediately dart behind if he felt in danger.


    The tense Agoutian lowered his spear with a relieved sigh and waved at Aeric. He did not try to talk to the approaching man and Aeric was happy that he remembered his instructions. Aeric looked up and saw Tinu hiding behind some leaves and Amon was peeking from his concealed position behind a rock, just off to the side from Kusaba. Aeric made a complicated hand sign and both hiding crossbowmen stood up, getting the ¡®no threats¡¯ sigal from Aeric. The hiding ladies led the hounds from the behind the trees and undergrowth, waving at Aeric.


    ¡°We¡¯re safe. We can talk.¡± Aeric said as his group crowded around him.


    ¡°What¡¯s happening, se?or? You told us that our new home is under siege. What will we do now?¡± A worried Kusaba asked.


    Aeric immediately returned to the group as soon as he learned of Cornago¡¯s plight. He quickly had the group move farther away from the port city and hid them in a place Aeric thought safe. He left them there to learn more about the Agoutian incursion. He was now left with a dilemma as what to do with the freed slaves. No, they¡¯re no longer slaves. He should stop thinking that. They are freemen. They have renounced their homeland when they agreed to find sanctuary in Cornago.


    ¡°That are few options we could take. I could bring you to Pavia, it is a large, heavily garrisoned town. It is not far from here. It would take us four days to reach it since we would have to stick to the jungles to avoid the mounted soldiers. I could also escort you to a small village on the western edge of the Howling Jungle. A treewalker tribe that I¡¯m friendly with uses a small cove for their fishing docks. I could arrange for them to carry you to their cousins on another island. They are a peaceable people so you would not have to be on guard with them all the time. Lastly, a sigilist circle two days away is looking for apprentices. Some of you might have the talent for it. I cannot guarantee that they would take you in though, they are a secretive bunch, those sigilist. They might come off as taciturn but beneath the stiff faces are kind hearts.


    I cannot make the decision for you. I will guide you and give you opinions and warnings but being a freeman means making decisions for yourself. Take a moment to deliberate. I¡¯ll check our surroundings.¡± Aeric left the group to scout the nearby area for threats. The freemen squatted in a circle, whispering to each other.


    It was truly an unfortunate situation for them. To leave the clutches of an evil man only for their tormentors to dog their steps. Aeric is just one man but he made a silent promise that he would not surrender the freemen to those slavering Agoutians.


    Aeric scouted in a wide circle, straining his senses against the possibility of being found. Titan faded in and out of the undergrowth but showed no signs of alarm. Satisfied that they were safe for the moment, he returned to the group to find them resting while still keeping watch. Amon was back hiding behind his rock with his crossbow in his hands. Aeric did not say anything but just looked at the collected faces in front of him expectantly.


    Unsurprisingly, it was Tinu who decided to speak for the group. He has established himself firmly as the leader of the immigrants.


    ¡°Can we stay with you, se?or?¡± Tinu timidly asked.


    ¡°What?¡± To say that Aeric was startled with the proposition was to put it lightly.


    ¡°Se?or, we do not know these lands. You have told us of the future we can have here but our countrymen have invaded. We do not want to be slaves again.¡± Aeric could see Tinu clenching his fist. A determined look momentarily passing his face, signaling faint whispers of a recovering spirit. It gladdened Aeric¡¯s heart that even for a short moment, Tinu was able to cast away years of being one of the downtrodden and put voice to his defiance.


    ¡°You have been good to us. You¡¯ve freed, fed, and protected us and even now, with our own countrymen invading Idaca, you have not left us to fend to ourselves. We are more grateful that you can ever imagine.


    We feel safe with you, se?or. If you would have us, we would accompany you wherever you may go. We will work hard. We don¡¯t need much and we¡¯ll make sure that you¡¯ll not find us a nuisance.¡± Tinu added earnestly.


    ¡°Please, se?or. I know we ask much but there is nobody else we would trust.¡± Mella pleaded, patting the hounds by her feet for comfort. Aeric was silent as he considered the idea.


    The Howling Jungle is not a safe place. Actually, living in the wilds anywhere presents a set of dangers that could turn deadly to those unlearned in woodcrafting skills. There is also the fact that there are very little luxuries in the woods. It worked well for Aeric since he is content with a simple life and his regular forays for supplies to Cornago once a month is enough to satisfy his need for a mug of beer or some well-cooked food.


    Now that he was seriously considering it, the idea seems to have a lot of merit. It would fill his need of community, if he was to think about it selfishly. He would have to be careful though, he did not want to give them false pretenses.


    "If you I bring back to my home, you do realize that you would be staying in the jungle. It is a simple life I live, you understand. Not only that, you have learned about the dangers of living in the Howling Jungle. You will always need to be on guard and respect the green canopies. Lastly, there would be a lot of hard work if you choose to stay. I have a small but sturdy home but it would not house all of us. We would have to build your own abode. We would also have to expand my garden to comfortable feed all of us.


    Taking all of that in mind, would all of you still want to live with me? Note though, that I do not take you as men and women of my house. You can leave anytime you want to. All of you are freemen. What say you?"


    The group did not have to think long. A chorus of ''yes'' rang out. Aeric surmised that they have made their decision long before. They were all happy that Aeric had taken them under their wing and he could see the look of relief in their faces. Aeric felt a little guilty not arguing more for their possible settlement in a different town or city but what''s done, is done.


    "All right then, brothers and sisters, for that''s what you all are now, it''s time for us to leave Idaca''s part of the Jungle. We have a ways to go before we are home. We have to move quickly if we are to avoid the rangers and the soldiers but first, I''ll have to leave them a surprise to dissuade them from chasing us if they find our signs." Aeric said.


    The group stood up and made for their home. The way home is not difficult yet it is far. It would almost be almost a six days before they reach it. In that time, Aeric would make the most of their travel time by instructing the group the basics of how to live in the jungle. How to recognize poisonous plants, how to avoid duskwalker breeding grounds, how to fashion weapons and traps to protect themselves, and much more. It did worry Aeric a bit that teaching them what he knows would not be the best for the freemen but he knew nothing else. If he feels that the freemen are not able to adjust to life with him in the next few ten-days, he would forcibly suggest them to live in a town or city in Idaca where they could get proper care.Stolen story; please report.


    Aeric left the group later in the afternoon to prepare his gift for the Agoutians. Aeric had the group wait for him in a cave by a ravine they were passing. He only took his spear, crossbow, and a water bottle and set off to find some game.


    Aeric was able to poison a horned pig. He used a poison he extracted from a bright blue frog and spread it on some sweet potatoes he dug up. The poison is a mild sedative but with the right dosage, it could also slow and weaken a person. Aeric was careful to ensure that he doesn''t kill the horned pig.


    With the pig well and truly weakened, Aeric was able to chase it towards a small clearing that would be on the path of the Agoutians. Aeric picked this spot because he also knew that there is a small duskwalker broodmother denning in cave nearby.


    Aeric stopped harassing the horned pig as he menaced it to move and it collapsed in the middle of the clearing. Aeric hid and waited until he spotted the unmistakable silhouette of a duskwalker. The pig had fallen asleep and never had a chance. The duskwalker bit hard on its neck and worried it like a hound. The pig''s neck broke, killing the animal. The duskwalker broodmother is much larger than a male. They are also incredibly fierce when with young. He could see four younglings come out of hiding, loping towards the fresh kill. They still have the muted gray coloration on their skin, marking them as juveniles.


    Aeric left the duskwalkers to eat quietly. The horned pig was of a good size and knowing duskwalkers, they will be engorging themselves until sleep takes them. The grass would hide the sleeping predators until it is too late for the Agoutians. Some people would be horrified with the fate Aeric engineered for the soldiers but Aeric has no regrets. He has very little care for slavers.


    With his trap in place, Aeric mounted Titan and made good time returning to the group. He could have been there faster but he wanted to erase any lingering marks of their passage as best as he could. He could not hide everything, the freemen made too many signs for him to remove but it would take a keen eye to spot them.


    Aeric was pleased to find that the group was not idle while he was away. They''ve replenished their water bottles and he could see them organizing the packs on the striders so that they would rattle less while moving. Tinu and Amon were also keeping an eye out for danger. They have taken to heart Aeric''s suggestion to use the trees often and Aeric could see that Amon was sitting on a high branch with his crossbow on hand.


    "You were successful, se?or?" Kusaba asked while he was leading the striders out of the cave. The striders were reluctant to leave the cool and comfortable cave but Kusaba was able to urge them into movement in short order.


    "Yes. Those duskwalkers would allow us more time. These Agoutians have never faced such creatures before. The broodmother alone would kill a number of the bastardos. Her young''uns are also not to be taken lightly. I would bet that they would take down a man or two before they are killed. The Agoutians would learn to respect the jungle." Aeric answered with authority.


    The group made decent time. Aeric and Titan guided them around dangerous creatures and impassable areas. Aeric has also started their education by pointing out things as they travel and talk about how to use or not the bountiful nature around them. He generally quiz them at the end of the day and he was gratified to know that both Mella and Piyesa were learned women. They know their letters and a little of numbers. The men folk were uneducated but clever. Tinu and Kusaba worked in the mines at the beginning of their slavery while Amon worked in a plantation. The women had always been house slaves so their basic education was necessary if they are to serve the household masters.


    The women have a quick wit and were able to deduce the answers to a lot of Aeric''s guiding questions. The men were not dim however and were also able to share their thoughts. They made timid answers, as if they were afraid to be punished if they got the answers wrong but got more comfortable as the days passed.


    By the time the party arrived at the entrance of Aeric''s home, the group have understood the basics of jungle life. At least now Aeric was not afraid that they would ingest something poisonous or put themselves in a dangerous situation. The freemen were quick to learn and were eager to try them for themselves.


    Aeric¡¯s home is located inside an expansive basin. Aeric speculated that the basin was formed when Gaia was young. It is dry and overgrown with jungle life now. It was completely by accident that he found the place. Aeric was living in a cave just outside Idacan lands before and it was never really comfortable. He thought about building a house there but hesitated because he didn¡¯t feel that he¡¯ll stay there for the foreseeable future. He could not explain it but Aeric was looking for something that would make him feel like he¡¯s home. He was not sure he would find it in the Howling Jungle, and it was daft for him to even think about it, but the cave was not it.


    He was following a wounded boar on one of his far-ranging hunting trips when he stumbled upon a crack in the mountain. The struggling boar made for the opening and Aeric hesitated a bit. The crack was wide enough to fit two carts side by side but the entrance was overgrown with ferns and other plant life. There was even a large tree just in front, hiding the entrance unless you look at it closely at an angle.


    Aeric finally followed the boar in after some internal deliberation and was astounded to find the massive basin open up as he left what he thought was a dark ravine. The basin was not as densely populated with trees and there were a lot of rocks around but it was as flat as he could see. He also noticed that it would not be a place howlers would want to live in. The trees scattered about the thick undergrowth were short and squat. There were also very little of fruit bearing trees to support a family of the noisy creatures. Aeric instantly knew that this would be the site of his new home.


    The year of his discovery of the basin was hard on Aeric. He didn¡¯t want to share the knowledge of his secluded home so he did all the labor in preparing it for his habitation with just the help of Titan, who was not fully grown then.


    Aeric thought about building himself a bamboo house since it was easier to build and would take him little time to finish. He thought long and hard and finally decided that the harder option of building a log house would serve him better. The monsoon season runs powerfully during its course and Aeric doubted that a bamboo house would stand up to that kind of natural punishment. The surrounding mountains would protect him and his home from the worst of the monsoon but it was always better to err to the side of caution. A log house, if done properly, would take more time but would last him a lifetime if cared for.


    For the next seven months, Aeric busied himself with preparing his home. He cleaned an open space in the land by digging up stones, clearing trees, and stomping the area flat before laying the foundation for a small and simple long house. He had to make regular forays to Cornago to purchase nails, hinges, and such as metalwork became necessary. He also consulted with builders, paying them for their expertise in teaching him how to more effectively build his home. The trips he had to make had proven costly, almost breaking all of his stashed money. He had barely enough coinage to pay for a couple of nights in an inn and some ale. Still, at end of his labors, the log house was well-built, if not of any particular distinction. It was very functional and missing any kind of decorative work but Aeric felt damn proud of himself. He felt sorry for how much he used Titan as a beast of burden, strapping him to logs to drag them around or to pull out stubborn stumps. He made it up to the stone dog by building a wide shack for him to den in. It was sturdy and comfortable. It even has windows for summer days that prove to be too hot. He almost teared up when he stood back and saw the completed house for the first time. It was definitely home now, he thought at that time.


    ¡°Se?or? Are we to enter the ravine?¡± Tinu asked as he stared at the opening dubiously.


    Aeric snapped out his reverie and brought himself back to the present. He could see that the others were also not enthused by the forbidding entrance which made him laugh. The freemen were startled and confused as they could see nothing funny about the situation.


    ¡°It¡¯s the only way to get to our new home. It¡¯s not as dark as it seems and it would not take us long to pass through it. Half a bell I would say. It is safe, I assure you.¡± Tinu didn¡¯t look convinced but he nodded anyway.


    ¡°If you say it is, se?or then it is.¡± Piyesa said with conviction. She squared her shoulders and walked up to the opening, giving it a good stare. The three hounds leashed to her belt were sniffing curiously at the opening. The others took heart from Piyesa''s courage and followed her example.


    Aeric was about to lead them inside when he was gently pushed aside by Titan. Without a backward glance, the stone dog silently padded through the opening, slowly disappearing in the dark passageway. Aeric laughed at the cheekiness of his companion.


    ¡°Why, you insolent bugger! You just had to show us up, didn¡¯t you? What say you, friends? Shall we?¡± Aeric led the group as they enter the passageway. The group was somewhat surprised that the passageway was actually wider than they expected. The darkness was quite deceptive. They felt more comfortable when they notice that it was not completely dark. Trees were blocking the sunlight from illuminating the passageway from high above but lances of sunlight was poking through the greenery here and there.


    The short trip through the entrance ended without any drama. Piyesa and Mella, who were leading the group just behind Aeric, gasped in delight as they saw the quaint, little log house sitting by its lonesome self in a clearing. The house was a long, squat thing with its gable roof running almost all the way to the ground on both sides. The house was unpainted, giving it a tired look. The brownish coloration had faded already due to the hard summer heat but the wood is still good and strong. It was definitely not of local design.


    Most of the native houses are built with bamboo and Nipa thatching. They are usually built on struts, animals occupying the caged underside of the house. It is an effective design for most and is very light. A group of people could uproot a house and carry it somewhere else, should the owner feel the need to move his or her domicile.


    The new residents of the basin took a slow look around the area, absorbing their surroundings. Another gasp caught Aeric¡¯s attention. Mella has found his small flower garden off to the side of the house. Some of the flowers have healing properties that he uses for salves and ointments. It was easier to plant some of them at home that to have to scour the jungle every time he needs a bit.


    The house was not far from the entrance itself. Aeric had fashioned a small gate made from bamboo to seal the entrance. It wouldn¡¯t stop any attacker that decided to storm the place. It was mainly there to prevent critters from finding their way in. Aeric had to clear out the basin when he first moved here.


    ¡°What is this place, se?or? We are like in a bowl.¡± Amon asked. He was shielding his eyes as he looked at the steep sides on the surrounding mountain.


    ¡°It¡¯s a dried basin. There are few of places like this throughout Gaia. This was undiscovered since it is deep in the Howling Jungle. I found it by accident. It is quiet here. Howlers cannot live here and there is no prey for duskwalkers or other predators to hunt. It is my oasis of peace. It is safe here. This is your new home too.¡±


    Aeric was startled when the group cheered. The freemen were laughing and exclaiming about the different aspects of the basin. Their excitement of finding a new place to live gladdens Aeric¡¯s heart. Even the hounds were yipping and barking, caught up with the happiness of their handlers.


    The group leisurely made their way to the house. The house was truly enough for a man like Aeric and it could probably accommodate another person, should he choose the share. That is one thing he was not ready to do yet.


    ¡°Welcome home. I have a rain barrel at the back of the house. Amon, please fill the bucket you see there and bring some fresh water for our striders. There is a nice cave not far from here. It doesn¡¯t go deep but it will be a perfect home for the striders. Tinu and Kusaba, please unload the striders and put up the tents. Better to do it now before later when you feel tired. Mella and Piyesa, I think a good homecoming meal would do us just fine. I¡¯ve some fishing rods that I¡¯ll want you to try your hand in. There is a pool here where I get my water from. It has some wonderful fish we could eat. Let¡¯s catch some for an early dinner.¡±


    Everybody went through their task at the usual brisk pace they normally do. Aeric went inside his house to get his fishing rods and to unpack his bag. He had yet to learn how to tickle fish and there was nobody to teach him. No matter, he could use a line with no difficulties.


    Looking inside his house after some time he was away, he could see nothing has changed. It was a cozy one room dwelling with his bed at the other end. He has a small fireplace where he does his cooking during bad weather but he prefers not to when the sun is out. Some of the dishes he prepares are well and truly stinky and he doesn¡¯t want to smell it when sleeping. A rough table and two chairs complement his tiny kitchen while a trunk and some shelving are his only furniture.


    The fishing tackle was leaning on the corner by the door so he grabbed the pouch and the rods. He left his spear on the rack he had fashioned just above the table. He placed the crossbow on top of the trunk, thinking about how he needs to make a place for it, and left the house with just his knife.


    The ladies were already waiting for him by the door. He could see they were apprehensive about approaching his domicile and Aeric immediately wanted to squash that.


    ¡°Ladies, I hope that you feel welcome in my home. It is only right, since we¡¯ll be neighbors soon. Don¡¯t hesitate to knock or call out to me if you need something. It would be odd if you are always like walking on eggshells every time you are near the log house. Remember, you are going to be living here too.¡± Aeric said softly.


    ¡°It is not easy, se?or. There are¡­ some adjustments we have to do. Mella and I are very thankful of your generosity. It is just that we need to be constantly careful when we were serving in Se?or Miguel¡¯s house. His wife has a terrible temper. She¡­ hurts us.¡± Piyesa said.


    It made Aeric angry how such travesty is considered normal in some countries. Nobility! Pfah! Whoever made such word has no notion of what it was.


    ¡°I cannot fault you for that and I am sorry you had to have the life you lived but that is over now. Over time, we can only hope that the scars of your slavery would lessen their hold on you.¡±


    ¡°That is also our hope, se?or.¡±


    ¡°I will help you anyway I can. For now, there is some fishing for us to do. Ho! Come with us, you lot. It would be good to rest our feet on the cool waters of the pool. We had a long and tiring trip. Time for us to luxuriate for a bit.¡± Tinu and Kusaba just finished setting up both tents and Aeric could see Amon hurrying back. The entire group trooped towards the pool a few knuckles away from Aeric¡¯s home. Aeric thought about siting his house by the pool early on upon the discovery of the basin but the noise of the small waterfall would not make for a restful sleep.


    ¡°Here we are! Nice pool, eh? There are some nice, fat fish you could catch here. I¡¯m not really sure how they come to find their way here since the waterfall is the only way they could reach this place but I¡¯m no fisherman.¡± Aeric commented.


    The group found themselves on the banks of a good-size pool. The loud sound of the crashing waterfall fed the pool with fresh water. The freemen looked at the pristine pool, commenting on how they could even see some of the fish Aeric was talking about.


    ¡°It is so peaceful here¡­¡± Aeric heard Amon mumbled.


    ¡°Yes, it is. This is what I exchanged city life for. Nobody to tell me what to do, when to do it, and at whose order it is to be done. In this small paradise, I¡¯m my own man.¡±


    ¡°Us too then¡­¡± Amon said in wonder.


    ¡°Yes, you too. You might change your mind once we start our work tomorrow.¡±


    ¡°Work?¡± Amon stopped staring at the others who were moving about to look at Aeric inquiringly.


    ¡°But of course! You cannot expect to continue living in those tents, could you? No, we are going to start felling trees to make your own dwelling. We are also going to have to expand the garden, or maybe make one near your own house, to supplement our food. My small plot, sadly, would not support our needs. Finally, and this is what I would insist on, all of you would start learning how to defend yourselves using the weapons you¡¯ve been given. If I am to be overwhelmed, you and others need to be able to help me. It would be for your own good too. Titan and I would not always be there.


    Saying that, we would also start exercising every morning. All of you are too thin and undernourished. Not of your own doing, of course, but a strong body is a healthy body as they say.¡±


    ¡°Exercise, se?or? We don¡¯t know how to. We see some of the caballeros and their escuderos train sometimes but I don¡¯t think we could do what they do.¡± Amon shook his head as he thought about sight of men running around in armor. He could not imagine himself doing such a thing.


    Aeric snorted, dismissing the idea of knight training immediately.


    ¡°You¡¯ll do none of that nonsense. There is no need to as we are not knights. Simple calisthenics with the help of some weigh stones is enough for us. Most of the militia never had training like what you just described. Those are for those who are bred to fight. They start training at such a young age that normal exercises are nothing for them. Do not worry yourself with those thoughts. We will start slow. All of you have the spirit for hard work, being alive while also being slaves attest to that, so exercises will not faze you.¡± Aeric assured him.


    ¡°You know best, se?or.¡± Amon replied.


    ¡°You will know too, in the future. Come! Let us join our friends. There is fish to be caught.¡± Aeric said enthusiastically.


    That day was a day of remembrance for all. It was their first proper meal together and the first day they truly felt safe and relaxed. Aeric decided not to worry them about current siege of Cornago since it doesn¡¯t concern him too. He doubts that the Agoutians would be able to capture the port city. Pavia is close by and undoubtedly, some Jin Xia traders had already informed the garrison there about the siege. Aeric believed that this was more of a delaying tactic. He saw some ship blockading the port but he couldn¡¯t see what kind of ships. Most of the warships of the city were running the sea lanes, protecting the merchant cogs from piracy. When they hear of their home port¡¯s plight, the mighty war galleons of the Idacan navy would be quick in coming.


    Aeric didn¡¯t spent any more thought about Idaca or Agoutia. His basin is far removed from the troubles of the civilized world and if he could, it would stay that way.