Part Two
Crimson Sun
Chapter I
Abbess Arum wandered about the abbey grounds searching for Amethyst. She had been almost everywhere, and still there was no sign of the mousemaid. It had been a full day since the mysterious ottermaid had found her way to the gates, and news had reached the Abbess' ears just after lunch; she was awake, yet not talking. Amethyst had been worried about the otter's well being to the point of not eating dinner the night before, and now that she was awake, Abbess Arum wanted to have Amethyst try to talk. Both were young, about the same age, and Amethyst had a way with getting into conversations with even the shyest beast. There was one problem, however, and that was the sudden disappearance of Amethyst.
"Find her yet?"
The Abbess glanced over her shoulder at the black hare. "No. Arkain, you know her, where does she like to hang about?"
Arkain shrugged. "Anywhere that offers a view o' both sky an' earth. She wanders about more'n we used t' wi'th' Long Patrol."
Arum frowned. "As long as she does not wander as far from here as you did from Salamandastron." She frowned and looked around the garden. "You don't think she's here, do you?" She sighed and cupped a paw around her mouth. "AMETHYST!"
The call was answered by silence, and the two were about to look elsewhere when the familiar voice answered from up a tree.
"What happened that you had to wake me from my sleep?"
The Abbess rubbed her eyelids, warding off what could very well have led to a headache. "Amethyst, it is me, Abbess Arum."
The mousemaid dropped from the tree, brushing dust off her dark green habit. "Terribly sorry, I didn't recognise your voice. I never heard you shout before."
"And you never will again. We've been looking for you since lunch ended, our guest is awake."
"She is? What's her name?"
Arkain shook his head. "I'm 'fraid she's not talkin'. We wanted y't' come an' give it a try. Y've got a natural talent fer startin' conversations."
Amethyst nodded. "Alright, I'll try."
The three crossed the abbey grounds to the stairs leading up to the back door of the infirmary. The Abbess and Arkain were quick to motion for Amethyst to go up first. She smiled and climbed the stairs.
In the infirmary, the otter was sitting up in bed, her feet dangling a hairbreadth from the floor and eyes locked on the empty bed next to hers. Natura had busied herself with running through the inventory list of the infirmary's stock. Amethyst silently crossed the room and sat down on the bed opposite the otter's.
"Hello there. Welcome to Loamhedge."
The otter slowly looked up at Amethyst, her eyes showing the stubbornness to remain silent. Then, just as slowly, her gaze fell to the floor in front of her.
"My name is Amethyst. I was the one that found you at our gates."
Again, the otter looked up, but instead of looking back down, she glanced at the other occupants in the room, then back at Amethyst.
Amethyst gave a nod and walked over to the Abbess. "Um, Abbess, I think she wants you to leave...all of you."
Natura glanced over her shoulder. "Why should I leave? This is my infirmary."
"Natura, I think it would be in our guest's best interests if you did. Come on, I'll have the friar serve up some tea." Abbess Arum took the healer by the paw and started pulling her out. "Come on, Arkain, you too, though the friar'll have a fit at having to feed you this early." She exited through the door to the hallway.
Arkain nodded to Amethyst. "I'll see y'later, don't 'ave too much fun without me!" He bowed to the otter and bounded out after the Abbess and healer.
Amethyst silently closed the door behind the hare and turned back to the otter.
"Is that better?"
The otter nodded.
Amethyst crossed the room and sat back down on the bed.
"Can I ask you a few questions?"
The otter nodded.
"Will you speak?"
There was a long moment of complete silence, as neither mouse nor otter moved. Then, in a soft voice that Amethyst had to strain to hear, the otter answered.
"Yes."
Amethyst gave the otter a friendly grin. "My name's Amethyst." She offered her paw.
The otter took the paw in a surprisingly strong and firm grip and gave it a light shake. "Call me Blackstrike."
Amethyst smiled. "Welcome to Loamhedge, Blackstrike."
"It's good t' be here. Thank you for yore help, I'm in yore debt."
The mousemaid shook her head. "Nonsense. We would do that for any beast who was injured, except for snakes. The Abbess doesn't trust snakes."
Blackstrike grinned, apparently finding that piece of information humorous. "So, Amethyst, what is this place?"
Amethyst took a deep breath and started to explain the standards and history of Loamhedge to Blackstrike.
Chapter II
Eagle Watch was one day from Loamhedge, and the anticipation had brought a cheery mood to everyone. Even Snitch, who was always quiet and shy, was laughing and making comical quips about his Foxtribe companions. Only one was unaffected, and he was constantly stopping to examine the trail along the way. Trent was drawing a lot of attention on himself, and Ghost was becoming more nervous around the fox.
"I told you," Celleste whispered across to him. "Don't trust a fox."
Ghost shushed her as Trent came to a sudden stop. The fox circled a few times, as if getting his bearings straight, and then growled in frustration.
"We've missed it. There was a landmark to help keep us going straight, and I think we missed it."
Dengar glanced around at his surroundings, as though it was the first time he had noticed. "Aye, I don't remember seeing this during the scouting missions. Maybe we should set up camp until we find out just where here is."
Ghost pulled out the worn journal he had been given by the badger lord of Salamandastron and looked at the map in the back. "Well, according to this map-"
"Let me see the map." Trent jogged over and snatched the book away, studying the map. He shook his head after a while. "No, we missed it. Here, look. This is where we are supposed to be...we're here, I think."
Ghost took the book back and studied the map for himself. "I don't think so, we haven't taken the wrong turn yet, why would we now?"
"You never know, when you are dealing with the forest." Bloodwort chuckled and shrugged. "I once got myself lost for two days, and I knew the territory like the back of my paw."
Ghost closed the book. "Well, I don't want to stop, but if we need to sort this mess out," he glared at Trent. "Then I have no choice. Elflein, get some lunch ready, I want to have a word with our two scouts. Celleste, you come too." He started to walk away, then stopped and turned to face the rest of the group. "Montel, I would like you to join us as well."
Montel nodded. "Be right there, just give me a minute."
Ghost pointed to Bloodwort and Trent. "You two, come."
He led them to a small, out of the way spot, out of earshot of the main camp. "Why are we lost? You have never led us wrong up until this point, and I can't imagine why we would be lost now." He paused as Montel wandered in. "Now then, we are going to look at this...mess and figure out a way to fix it. If we are lost, then I don't want to risk travelling onward only to get further from Loamhedge. So, I am going to trust you two on this call." He caught a glare from Celleste out of the corner of his eye. "Are we or are we not lost?"
Bloodwort glanced sidelong at Trent, and the two gave each other a reluctant nod.
"Yes, we are. Bloodwort and I have no memory of setting eyes on this sight during our scouting missions, and it has been a while since we last spotted a landmark. If you would like, we can scout around and find the right trail, I have a feeling I know where it is."
Ghost hesitated. "Not the two of you together. I want to send someone from the Watch with you. Trent, you stay here, Bloodwort can go."
Trent nodded politely. "Of course. I'll busy myself with studying the map." He walked back towards the camp in silence.
"Now then, Bloodwort, I am going to send you with Montel. The two of you should have no problems finding out where we are."
There was a shout from the camp that Ghost immediately recognised as Corbin.
"Hey, Montel, they want us to make our Warrior Soup. Come on and give a hand!"
Celleste grabbed Ghost by the arm and leaned in close to whisper. "I'll go. I am somewhat familiar with these parts from studying the maps. When you get back to camp, have Lady Flynt follow us out of view."
Ghost started to shake his head.
"Remember, we know they are up to something, they don't know we know. We can surprise them."
"Fine," Ghost said after much hesitation. "Go, but be careful."
She kissed him on the cheek. "Aw, you know me better than that."
Ghost chuckled. "Alright. Bloodwort, change in plans. You are going with Celleste. Montel, make your soup. I want to be out of here and back on track by this afternoon."
Bloodwort nodded and, after consulting his copy of the map, made off due west. Celleste started to follow, but not before winking to Ghost, who simply mouthed the words 'be careful.' Then, they were gone. Ghost nodded to Montel.
"Send Lady Flynt in here, get to making lunch."
The badger nodded and ambled back to the camp. After a minute, Lady Flynt strode in, her bow slung over her shoulder.
"You called?"
"Yes, Lady Flynt, I did. I need you to follow Bloodwort and Celleste. To be honest, I don't trust the foxes, and I would appreciate it if you kept an eye on her from a distance. Celleste and I have thought that they have been up to something for some time now, and I want to start keeping them where we can watch them."
"Alright. What about the other three?"
"Well, they're back at the camp. The rest of the Watch can keep an eye on them."
Lady Flynt suddenly stood up straight. "If you think that, then you're right about a conspiracy. Trent's not at the camp."
Ghost's heart skipped a beat, and during that time he drew his daggers and started running west. "Get back to camp. If he show up, detain him. I don't care if he knows we don't trust him. Keep an eye on the other two."
Lady Flynt nodded and darted back to the camp.
Celleste looked around at the surrounding forest and shook her head. "I don't remember seeing this on the map."
"Relax." Bloodwort paused and pointed towards a line of bushes. "Maps are never completely accurate." He started walking towards the bushes, motioning Celleste to follow. "Besides, I am pretty certain I know where we are."
Celleste glanced around at the trees, silently hoping to catch a glimpse of Lady Flynt. "Well, that's a relief. Makes one of us, at least." She looked back down. Bloodwort had moved on and had pushed his way through the bushes and out of view. "Well, ain't that dandy, just leave me all alone here"
Pain suddenly exploded from the back of her skull, and she fell to the ground; temporarily blinded by the blow. A low chuckle came from behind her, as she reached back to rub the sore spot on her head.
"Get up and turn around, I like my victims to see the blow coming."
She blinked until her sight came back to her and glanced over her shoulder at Trent. "How long did it take you to think that line up?"
Trent gave her a sharp kick to the side, sending her sprawling onto her back. "You killed one of the members of my tribe. I told you I would kill you for that, so here I am."
Celleste's eyes focused on the fox, then the loaded sling he was idly twirling at his side. "You know how to use that?"
Trent grinned coldly and nodded. "Of course. Your sister taught me."
Celleste somehow found that she was not afraid of the fox. "You know, Lady Flynt's on her way."
Trent shook her head. "No. By now, they are finding out for themselves that Foxtribe was never dead, like you will be in a moment."
Celleste nodded slowly. Then, without warning, she kicked dust up at Trent's face and turned to run. Trent raised a paw to block the dust, gave the sling a good whirl, and loosed the stone. There was a crack as stone hit skull, and Celleste fell to the ground.
Trent stared at the body for a second, then looked around for Bloodwort. The fellow Foxtribe member appeared from the east and nodded. Ghost was on his way.
Chapter III
Montel silently stirred his soup with a spoon as he glared at Dengar and Snitch. The two foxes were withering under his harsh glare.
"Where's Trent?"
Dengar shook his head. "I don't know. I told you, he tends to wander off on his own sometimes. He'll be back soon."
Montel shook his head. "I don't buy that."
Snitch shrugged. "Too bad. It don't matter anyway."
Dengar smacked the younger fox and glared at him. "Just keep your mouth shut."
Snitch bared his fangs and hissed. "I told you to cut that out."
"Yeah, what're you going to do about it?"
Snitch drew his rapier and slashed at the other fox, who nimbly stepped backwards and out of the way of the blade. "I'll cut you to pieces," he grinned. "After I warn them." He looked over his shoulder at Montel. "Trent's having the Foxtribe attack. They'll be here soon."
Dengar acted quickly. The blade of his dagger flashed as it flew from its sheath and buried itself up to its hilt in the younger fox's chest. "Sorry Snitch, no room for traitors." He held the body up like a shield between himself and the badger. "Sorry, Montel, look's like you've been had."
"Not so fast, vermin."
Dengar glanced sideways and hissed at himself for not watching his back and Lady Flynt grinned at him as she loosed the shaft. She did not even wait for the body to fall before she was sounding the alarm.
"Come on, prepare for attack. Foxtribe's comin'. Montel, see if you can move that fallen tree here for a wall. Corbin, where's Solace? Don't know? Find her now. Right then, Elflein, duck!"
The warning was too late and Elflein fell to the ground, wounded from a black shafted arrow to the shoulder. Two more shafts whistled through the air, one clipping Lady Flynt's ear. The attack was happening too fast for the group to organise a defence. It was Montel's booming voice that sounded the single, most welcomed word any members of the Watch had heard. Retreat.
The Watch darted into the trees to escape the hail of arrows. Montel gripped his axe and glanced back at the camp.
"I can see them sneaking around this way. Alright, listen up, here's what we're going to do. Elflein, you and Solace head west and try to find Ghost and Celleste. Lady Flynt, get up in a tree and show them what a real archer can do with those arrows. Corbin," He glanced around, searching for the mouse warrior. "Where's Corbin?"
Montel glanced back at the camp again only to confirm his fears. Putting the emotions aside, he looked back at the group. "Right then, Solace, you're taking Elflein west. Flynt and I are going to stay back and give them all blood and vinegar. They're going to wish they never tangled with Eagle Watch."
He turned and cupped a paw around his mouth. "Come on, you vermin! Second one here gets to watch the first die!" He ducked as an arrow whistled past him. "You ready, Flynt?" He glanced back to make sure Solace and Elflein were gone. The two had already vanished from view.
"Montel, if this's our last stand; it was an honour."
The badger chuckled and tightened his grip on the axe. "It ain't over yet." A fox showed its face around a tree, and Montel swung the axe. "EEUULAALIAAA!"
Ghost gripped his daggers tightly as he crept noiselessly through the forest. So far, he had seen nothing out of the ordinary, save the usual broken twig that showed someone had been through there earlier. His ears were alert and tuned in to any sound that might have been out of place, hoping to single in on Bloodwort and Celleste. His eyes scanned his surroundings until they came to a rest on a row of bushes, whose broken branches betrayed the path taken by the fox. He silently pushed through them, ready to fight if needed.
The sight that he found twisted his stomach in knots and made his heart stand still. A sob rose and stuck in his throat, and one dagger slipped from his left paw to the ground, the other hanging loosely from his fingertips. Lying on the ground, as though in a deep sleep, was Celleste. A faint trickle of blood ran from the back of her head where a stone had hit her, down her cheek, and onto the ground where it was beginning to form a small pool. Tears welled up in his eyes, and he staggered forward. His knees buckled suddenly, and he fell to his paws and knees at her side. He rolled her onto her back and hugged the lifeless form, sobbing.
"I'm sorry, I should have listened to you."
A low chuckle rose, and he whirled about to face its owner, dagger gripped tightly in paw.
"Ghost, poor unfortunate Ghost. Blaming yourself for her death, are you?" Trent shook his head. "Remember, she wanted to go. You were so certain you could blindside me, weren't you?" He chuckled again. "No one, not even you, out foxes a fox."
Ghost took a step forward, the anger rising through his tears. "A fair fight, you and me."
Trent studied the ferret for a moment. "Alright. Rapier and dagger. Bloodwort, give him your blade and prepare to watch a master." He grinned and drew his rapier.
Ghost did not take his eyes off of Trent as Bloodwort handed him a rapier, nor did he hesitate to attack. Metal rang as it clashed against metal, and both beasts were locked in a mortal combat.
"You know," Trent said as he blocked a blow and locked all four of the blades together at their hilts. "You won't die by my paws. I'll let Bloodwort kill you."
Ghost pushed his weight against the locked blades, trying to gain an advantage over the fox. "We'll see who kills who."
Trent shook his head. "No. I'm pretty sure you will die."
The fox freed his dagger and stabbed at Ghost's exposed side, leaving the dagger where it had buried itself. Ghost fell to the ground, dropping his blades and grasping the dagger in his side in pain. Trent pressed the tip of his rapier against Ghost's throat.
"I told you, you will die." He nodded to Bloodwort and started walking away. "Oh, and Ghost," he turned around to face the ferret. "Just so you know, she died without much of a fight." He turned and left.
Ghost glared after Trent and started to stand, but a strong paw shoved him roughly back down.
"Listen up, ferret, because I will only tell you this once. I'll let you die quickly, or slowly and I'm going to let you chose."
Ghost looked up at Bloodwort. "Just bring your rapier down on my neck and get it over with."
Bloodwort looked disappointed. "I wanted to have some fun too, but oh well." He raised his rapier over his head.
Ghost pulled the dagger from his side and slashed at Bloodwort's feet. The fox screamed and fell over. Without wasting a moment, Ghost threw himself on the fox and drove the dagger down, piercing the heart. Bloodwort's shocked expression was frozen on a lifeless face.
He released the dagger and crawled over to where Celleste was lying. Taking her in his arms, he gave her a final hug and kiss and pushed himself to his feet.
"Celleste, I am sorry I didn't believe you from the start. Maybe one day you will forgive me, and I will be able to join you again."
Holding the wound in his side, he turned and ran, not truly caring where he ended up. All he knew was that he needed to live so he could take his revenge on the Foxtribe.
Solace glanced back as she heard the badger's war cry. "Hope they get out of it alive, Elflein."
"Aye, I'm worried fer m' sister too, an' Ghost. What d'ye think happened to them?"
Both froze as the soft ringing of metal being drawn from a sheath reached their ears.
"Oh, I'll bet I can tell you exactly what happened to those two."
Solace spun to face Trent. "Get out o' here, Elflein, I'll take 'im."
Trent laughed. "You? I've had better fights from dormice." He held the rapier up. "But if you insist, I'll go easy on you."
Solace growled and pulled a dirk from her belt. "Make my day, fox."
Trent charged; his first and only mistake for the fight. Solace rolled onto her back and kicked up under the blade, planting a solid blow to his stomach with both feet. Trent fell back, winded, and tried to stagger to his feet. Solace jumped to her feet and charged him, not waiting for him to recover. Metal clashed on metal as he brought his rapier up to ward off the dirk. Elflein took the opportunity to attack with a paring knife she used for cooking. Trent panicked and thrust blindly with his rapier while trying to kick the enraged hare off him.
There was a sudden lull in the battle, and the Foxtribe leader was able to assess the situation. He found it more pleasing than he had anticipated. His rapier had struck home, and Elflein was lying on the ground dead. Solace was recovering from a hefty kick that had sent her sprawling onto the ground. Trent stood and brushed himself off.
"They are dead, Solace. I killed Celleste and Elflein, Bloodwort killed Ghost, and my Foxtribe will kill the rest of them."
Solace rolled onto her feet and felt a lump form in her throat as she spotted Elflein's lifeless figure. The fight, she knew, was lost. She had learned from her days in training at Salamandastron that in times like this the best thing to do was regroup. She stood and nodded to Trent.
"Fine, you win this once. But we'll see if y'can live a full life. I'll have your hide as a rug."
"So you are going to give up?"
Solace narrowed her eyes and hopped into the depths of the forest.
Chapter IV
Abbess Arum smiled warmly as Amethyst introduced her to Blackstrike. The otter was, as many had feared, an escaped slave. What was even more fearful, however, was the news that slavers were close to Loamhedge and drawing nearer each day. However, that would be a matter best faced when it arrived. First, there was a new friend to make feel at home.
"Blackstrike, it is our wish that you find Loamhedge to be a place of refuge, a new home, and a haven for you to spend the rest of your days if it is your will to do so. For as long as you stay here, we will extend only the warmest hospitality to you. As the Abbess of this fine abbey, I would like to say welcome to Loamhedge."
Blackstrike, now clad in a fresh, forest green habit, grinned sheepishly, slightly embarrassed by all of the attention she was getting. "Well, thankee marm. Uh...I guess I'd just like t' say thanks fer takin' me in. I'll stay here a good long time, an' I hope time's good t' us all."
A squirrel suddenly burst through the doors of the Main Hall and ran up to the Abbess.
"I thought you'd like to know this," he took a deep breath. "A wounded ferret just collapsed outside the gates. We're debating whether or not to bring him in."
The Abbess frowned. "How bad is he?"
"Hard to tell, but he looks bad."
Arum nodded. "Bring him in, but keep him under tight watch." She glanced at Blackstrike. "Come on, I want you to tell me if he is one of the slavers."
Crimson Sun
Chapter I
Abbess Arum wandered about the abbey grounds searching for Amethyst. She had been almost everywhere, and still there was no sign of the mousemaid. It had been a full day since the mysterious ottermaid had found her way to the gates, and news had reached the Abbess' ears just after lunch; she was awake, yet not talking. Amethyst had been worried about the otter's well being to the point of not eating dinner the night before, and now that she was awake, Abbess Arum wanted to have Amethyst try to talk. Both were young, about the same age, and Amethyst had a way with getting into conversations with even the shyest beast. There was one problem, however, and that was the sudden disappearance of Amethyst.
"Find her yet?"
The Abbess glanced over her shoulder at the black hare. "No. Arkain, you know her, where does she like to hang about?"
Arkain shrugged. "Anywhere that offers a view o' both sky an' earth. She wanders about more'n we used t' wi'th' Long Patrol."
Arum frowned. "As long as she does not wander as far from here as you did from Salamandastron." She frowned and looked around the garden. "You don't think she's here, do you?" She sighed and cupped a paw around her mouth. "AMETHYST!"
The call was answered by silence, and the two were about to look elsewhere when the familiar voice answered from up a tree.
"What happened that you had to wake me from my sleep?"
The Abbess rubbed her eyelids, warding off what could very well have led to a headache. "Amethyst, it is me, Abbess Arum."
The mousemaid dropped from the tree, brushing dust off her dark green habit. "Terribly sorry, I didn't recognise your voice. I never heard you shout before."
"And you never will again. We've been looking for you since lunch ended, our guest is awake."
"She is? What's her name?"
Arkain shook his head. "I'm 'fraid she's not talkin'. We wanted y't' come an' give it a try. Y've got a natural talent fer startin' conversations."
Amethyst nodded. "Alright, I'll try."
The three crossed the abbey grounds to the stairs leading up to the back door of the infirmary. The Abbess and Arkain were quick to motion for Amethyst to go up first. She smiled and climbed the stairs.
In the infirmary, the otter was sitting up in bed, her feet dangling a hairbreadth from the floor and eyes locked on the empty bed next to hers. Natura had busied herself with running through the inventory list of the infirmary's stock. Amethyst silently crossed the room and sat down on the bed opposite the otter's.
"Hello there. Welcome to Loamhedge."
The otter slowly looked up at Amethyst, her eyes showing the stubbornness to remain silent. Then, just as slowly, her gaze fell to the floor in front of her.
"My name is Amethyst. I was the one that found you at our gates."
Again, the otter looked up, but instead of looking back down, she glanced at the other occupants in the room, then back at Amethyst.
Amethyst gave a nod and walked over to the Abbess. "Um, Abbess, I think she wants you to leave...all of you."
Natura glanced over her shoulder. "Why should I leave? This is my infirmary."
"Natura, I think it would be in our guest's best interests if you did. Come on, I'll have the friar serve up some tea." Abbess Arum took the healer by the paw and started pulling her out. "Come on, Arkain, you too, though the friar'll have a fit at having to feed you this early." She exited through the door to the hallway.
Arkain nodded to Amethyst. "I'll see y'later, don't 'ave too much fun without me!" He bowed to the otter and bounded out after the Abbess and healer.
Amethyst silently closed the door behind the hare and turned back to the otter.
"Is that better?"
The otter nodded.
Amethyst crossed the room and sat back down on the bed.
"Can I ask you a few questions?"
The otter nodded.
"Will you speak?"
There was a long moment of complete silence, as neither mouse nor otter moved. Then, in a soft voice that Amethyst had to strain to hear, the otter answered.
"Yes."
Amethyst gave the otter a friendly grin. "My name's Amethyst." She offered her paw.
The otter took the paw in a surprisingly strong and firm grip and gave it a light shake. "Call me Blackstrike."
Amethyst smiled. "Welcome to Loamhedge, Blackstrike."
"It's good t' be here. Thank you for yore help, I'm in yore debt."
The mousemaid shook her head. "Nonsense. We would do that for any beast who was injured, except for snakes. The Abbess doesn't trust snakes."
Blackstrike grinned, apparently finding that piece of information humorous. "So, Amethyst, what is this place?"
Amethyst took a deep breath and started to explain the standards and history of Loamhedge to Blackstrike.
Chapter II
Eagle Watch was one day from Loamhedge, and the anticipation had brought a cheery mood to everyone. Even Snitch, who was always quiet and shy, was laughing and making comical quips about his Foxtribe companions. Only one was unaffected, and he was constantly stopping to examine the trail along the way. Trent was drawing a lot of attention on himself, and Ghost was becoming more nervous around the fox.
"I told you," Celleste whispered across to him. "Don't trust a fox."
Ghost shushed her as Trent came to a sudden stop. The fox circled a few times, as if getting his bearings straight, and then growled in frustration.
"We've missed it. There was a landmark to help keep us going straight, and I think we missed it."
Dengar glanced around at his surroundings, as though it was the first time he had noticed. "Aye, I don't remember seeing this during the scouting missions. Maybe we should set up camp until we find out just where here is."
Ghost pulled out the worn journal he had been given by the badger lord of Salamandastron and looked at the map in the back. "Well, according to this map-"
"Let me see the map." Trent jogged over and snatched the book away, studying the map. He shook his head after a while. "No, we missed it. Here, look. This is where we are supposed to be...we're here, I think."
Ghost took the book back and studied the map for himself. "I don't think so, we haven't taken the wrong turn yet, why would we now?"
"You never know, when you are dealing with the forest." Bloodwort chuckled and shrugged. "I once got myself lost for two days, and I knew the territory like the back of my paw."
Ghost closed the book. "Well, I don't want to stop, but if we need to sort this mess out," he glared at Trent. "Then I have no choice. Elflein, get some lunch ready, I want to have a word with our two scouts. Celleste, you come too." He started to walk away, then stopped and turned to face the rest of the group. "Montel, I would like you to join us as well."
Montel nodded. "Be right there, just give me a minute."
Ghost pointed to Bloodwort and Trent. "You two, come."
He led them to a small, out of the way spot, out of earshot of the main camp. "Why are we lost? You have never led us wrong up until this point, and I can't imagine why we would be lost now." He paused as Montel wandered in. "Now then, we are going to look at this...mess and figure out a way to fix it. If we are lost, then I don't want to risk travelling onward only to get further from Loamhedge. So, I am going to trust you two on this call." He caught a glare from Celleste out of the corner of his eye. "Are we or are we not lost?"
Bloodwort glanced sidelong at Trent, and the two gave each other a reluctant nod.
"Yes, we are. Bloodwort and I have no memory of setting eyes on this sight during our scouting missions, and it has been a while since we last spotted a landmark. If you would like, we can scout around and find the right trail, I have a feeling I know where it is."
Ghost hesitated. "Not the two of you together. I want to send someone from the Watch with you. Trent, you stay here, Bloodwort can go."
Trent nodded politely. "Of course. I'll busy myself with studying the map." He walked back towards the camp in silence.
"Now then, Bloodwort, I am going to send you with Montel. The two of you should have no problems finding out where we are."
There was a shout from the camp that Ghost immediately recognised as Corbin.
"Hey, Montel, they want us to make our Warrior Soup. Come on and give a hand!"
Celleste grabbed Ghost by the arm and leaned in close to whisper. "I'll go. I am somewhat familiar with these parts from studying the maps. When you get back to camp, have Lady Flynt follow us out of view."
Ghost started to shake his head.
"Remember, we know they are up to something, they don't know we know. We can surprise them."
"Fine," Ghost said after much hesitation. "Go, but be careful."
She kissed him on the cheek. "Aw, you know me better than that."
Ghost chuckled. "Alright. Bloodwort, change in plans. You are going with Celleste. Montel, make your soup. I want to be out of here and back on track by this afternoon."
Bloodwort nodded and, after consulting his copy of the map, made off due west. Celleste started to follow, but not before winking to Ghost, who simply mouthed the words 'be careful.' Then, they were gone. Ghost nodded to Montel.
"Send Lady Flynt in here, get to making lunch."
The badger nodded and ambled back to the camp. After a minute, Lady Flynt strode in, her bow slung over her shoulder.
"You called?"
"Yes, Lady Flynt, I did. I need you to follow Bloodwort and Celleste. To be honest, I don't trust the foxes, and I would appreciate it if you kept an eye on her from a distance. Celleste and I have thought that they have been up to something for some time now, and I want to start keeping them where we can watch them."
"Alright. What about the other three?"
"Well, they're back at the camp. The rest of the Watch can keep an eye on them."
Lady Flynt suddenly stood up straight. "If you think that, then you're right about a conspiracy. Trent's not at the camp."
Ghost's heart skipped a beat, and during that time he drew his daggers and started running west. "Get back to camp. If he show up, detain him. I don't care if he knows we don't trust him. Keep an eye on the other two."
Lady Flynt nodded and darted back to the camp.
Celleste looked around at the surrounding forest and shook her head. "I don't remember seeing this on the map."
"Relax." Bloodwort paused and pointed towards a line of bushes. "Maps are never completely accurate." He started walking towards the bushes, motioning Celleste to follow. "Besides, I am pretty certain I know where we are."
Celleste glanced around at the trees, silently hoping to catch a glimpse of Lady Flynt. "Well, that's a relief. Makes one of us, at least." She looked back down. Bloodwort had moved on and had pushed his way through the bushes and out of view. "Well, ain't that dandy, just leave me all alone here"
Pain suddenly exploded from the back of her skull, and she fell to the ground; temporarily blinded by the blow. A low chuckle came from behind her, as she reached back to rub the sore spot on her head.
"Get up and turn around, I like my victims to see the blow coming."
She blinked until her sight came back to her and glanced over her shoulder at Trent. "How long did it take you to think that line up?"
Trent gave her a sharp kick to the side, sending her sprawling onto her back. "You killed one of the members of my tribe. I told you I would kill you for that, so here I am."
Celleste's eyes focused on the fox, then the loaded sling he was idly twirling at his side. "You know how to use that?"
Trent grinned coldly and nodded. "Of course. Your sister taught me."
Celleste somehow found that she was not afraid of the fox. "You know, Lady Flynt's on her way."
Trent shook her head. "No. By now, they are finding out for themselves that Foxtribe was never dead, like you will be in a moment."
Celleste nodded slowly. Then, without warning, she kicked dust up at Trent's face and turned to run. Trent raised a paw to block the dust, gave the sling a good whirl, and loosed the stone. There was a crack as stone hit skull, and Celleste fell to the ground.
Trent stared at the body for a second, then looked around for Bloodwort. The fellow Foxtribe member appeared from the east and nodded. Ghost was on his way.
Chapter III
Montel silently stirred his soup with a spoon as he glared at Dengar and Snitch. The two foxes were withering under his harsh glare.
"Where's Trent?"
Dengar shook his head. "I don't know. I told you, he tends to wander off on his own sometimes. He'll be back soon."
Montel shook his head. "I don't buy that."
Snitch shrugged. "Too bad. It don't matter anyway."
Dengar smacked the younger fox and glared at him. "Just keep your mouth shut."
Snitch bared his fangs and hissed. "I told you to cut that out."
"Yeah, what're you going to do about it?"
Snitch drew his rapier and slashed at the other fox, who nimbly stepped backwards and out of the way of the blade. "I'll cut you to pieces," he grinned. "After I warn them." He looked over his shoulder at Montel. "Trent's having the Foxtribe attack. They'll be here soon."
Dengar acted quickly. The blade of his dagger flashed as it flew from its sheath and buried itself up to its hilt in the younger fox's chest. "Sorry Snitch, no room for traitors." He held the body up like a shield between himself and the badger. "Sorry, Montel, look's like you've been had."
"Not so fast, vermin."
Dengar glanced sideways and hissed at himself for not watching his back and Lady Flynt grinned at him as she loosed the shaft. She did not even wait for the body to fall before she was sounding the alarm.
"Come on, prepare for attack. Foxtribe's comin'. Montel, see if you can move that fallen tree here for a wall. Corbin, where's Solace? Don't know? Find her now. Right then, Elflein, duck!"
The warning was too late and Elflein fell to the ground, wounded from a black shafted arrow to the shoulder. Two more shafts whistled through the air, one clipping Lady Flynt's ear. The attack was happening too fast for the group to organise a defence. It was Montel's booming voice that sounded the single, most welcomed word any members of the Watch had heard. Retreat.
The Watch darted into the trees to escape the hail of arrows. Montel gripped his axe and glanced back at the camp.
"I can see them sneaking around this way. Alright, listen up, here's what we're going to do. Elflein, you and Solace head west and try to find Ghost and Celleste. Lady Flynt, get up in a tree and show them what a real archer can do with those arrows. Corbin," He glanced around, searching for the mouse warrior. "Where's Corbin?"
Montel glanced back at the camp again only to confirm his fears. Putting the emotions aside, he looked back at the group. "Right then, Solace, you're taking Elflein west. Flynt and I are going to stay back and give them all blood and vinegar. They're going to wish they never tangled with Eagle Watch."
He turned and cupped a paw around his mouth. "Come on, you vermin! Second one here gets to watch the first die!" He ducked as an arrow whistled past him. "You ready, Flynt?" He glanced back to make sure Solace and Elflein were gone. The two had already vanished from view.
"Montel, if this's our last stand; it was an honour."
The badger chuckled and tightened his grip on the axe. "It ain't over yet." A fox showed its face around a tree, and Montel swung the axe. "EEUULAALIAAA!"
Ghost gripped his daggers tightly as he crept noiselessly through the forest. So far, he had seen nothing out of the ordinary, save the usual broken twig that showed someone had been through there earlier. His ears were alert and tuned in to any sound that might have been out of place, hoping to single in on Bloodwort and Celleste. His eyes scanned his surroundings until they came to a rest on a row of bushes, whose broken branches betrayed the path taken by the fox. He silently pushed through them, ready to fight if needed.
The sight that he found twisted his stomach in knots and made his heart stand still. A sob rose and stuck in his throat, and one dagger slipped from his left paw to the ground, the other hanging loosely from his fingertips. Lying on the ground, as though in a deep sleep, was Celleste. A faint trickle of blood ran from the back of her head where a stone had hit her, down her cheek, and onto the ground where it was beginning to form a small pool. Tears welled up in his eyes, and he staggered forward. His knees buckled suddenly, and he fell to his paws and knees at her side. He rolled her onto her back and hugged the lifeless form, sobbing.
"I'm sorry, I should have listened to you."
A low chuckle rose, and he whirled about to face its owner, dagger gripped tightly in paw.
"Ghost, poor unfortunate Ghost. Blaming yourself for her death, are you?" Trent shook his head. "Remember, she wanted to go. You were so certain you could blindside me, weren't you?" He chuckled again. "No one, not even you, out foxes a fox."
Ghost took a step forward, the anger rising through his tears. "A fair fight, you and me."
Trent studied the ferret for a moment. "Alright. Rapier and dagger. Bloodwort, give him your blade and prepare to watch a master." He grinned and drew his rapier.
Ghost did not take his eyes off of Trent as Bloodwort handed him a rapier, nor did he hesitate to attack. Metal rang as it clashed against metal, and both beasts were locked in a mortal combat.
"You know," Trent said as he blocked a blow and locked all four of the blades together at their hilts. "You won't die by my paws. I'll let Bloodwort kill you."
Ghost pushed his weight against the locked blades, trying to gain an advantage over the fox. "We'll see who kills who."
Trent shook his head. "No. I'm pretty sure you will die."
The fox freed his dagger and stabbed at Ghost's exposed side, leaving the dagger where it had buried itself. Ghost fell to the ground, dropping his blades and grasping the dagger in his side in pain. Trent pressed the tip of his rapier against Ghost's throat.
"I told you, you will die." He nodded to Bloodwort and started walking away. "Oh, and Ghost," he turned around to face the ferret. "Just so you know, she died without much of a fight." He turned and left.
Ghost glared after Trent and started to stand, but a strong paw shoved him roughly back down.
"Listen up, ferret, because I will only tell you this once. I'll let you die quickly, or slowly and I'm going to let you chose."
Ghost looked up at Bloodwort. "Just bring your rapier down on my neck and get it over with."
Bloodwort looked disappointed. "I wanted to have some fun too, but oh well." He raised his rapier over his head.
Ghost pulled the dagger from his side and slashed at Bloodwort's feet. The fox screamed and fell over. Without wasting a moment, Ghost threw himself on the fox and drove the dagger down, piercing the heart. Bloodwort's shocked expression was frozen on a lifeless face.
He released the dagger and crawled over to where Celleste was lying. Taking her in his arms, he gave her a final hug and kiss and pushed himself to his feet.
"Celleste, I am sorry I didn't believe you from the start. Maybe one day you will forgive me, and I will be able to join you again."
Holding the wound in his side, he turned and ran, not truly caring where he ended up. All he knew was that he needed to live so he could take his revenge on the Foxtribe.
Solace glanced back as she heard the badger's war cry. "Hope they get out of it alive, Elflein."
"Aye, I'm worried fer m' sister too, an' Ghost. What d'ye think happened to them?"
Both froze as the soft ringing of metal being drawn from a sheath reached their ears.
"Oh, I'll bet I can tell you exactly what happened to those two."
Solace spun to face Trent. "Get out o' here, Elflein, I'll take 'im."
Trent laughed. "You? I've had better fights from dormice." He held the rapier up. "But if you insist, I'll go easy on you."
Solace growled and pulled a dirk from her belt. "Make my day, fox."
Trent charged; his first and only mistake for the fight. Solace rolled onto her back and kicked up under the blade, planting a solid blow to his stomach with both feet. Trent fell back, winded, and tried to stagger to his feet. Solace jumped to her feet and charged him, not waiting for him to recover. Metal clashed on metal as he brought his rapier up to ward off the dirk. Elflein took the opportunity to attack with a paring knife she used for cooking. Trent panicked and thrust blindly with his rapier while trying to kick the enraged hare off him.
There was a sudden lull in the battle, and the Foxtribe leader was able to assess the situation. He found it more pleasing than he had anticipated. His rapier had struck home, and Elflein was lying on the ground dead. Solace was recovering from a hefty kick that had sent her sprawling onto the ground. Trent stood and brushed himself off.
"They are dead, Solace. I killed Celleste and Elflein, Bloodwort killed Ghost, and my Foxtribe will kill the rest of them."
Solace rolled onto her feet and felt a lump form in her throat as she spotted Elflein's lifeless figure. The fight, she knew, was lost. She had learned from her days in training at Salamandastron that in times like this the best thing to do was regroup. She stood and nodded to Trent.
"Fine, you win this once. But we'll see if y'can live a full life. I'll have your hide as a rug."
"So you are going to give up?"
Solace narrowed her eyes and hopped into the depths of the forest.
Chapter IV
Abbess Arum smiled warmly as Amethyst introduced her to Blackstrike. The otter was, as many had feared, an escaped slave. What was even more fearful, however, was the news that slavers were close to Loamhedge and drawing nearer each day. However, that would be a matter best faced when it arrived. First, there was a new friend to make feel at home.
"Blackstrike, it is our wish that you find Loamhedge to be a place of refuge, a new home, and a haven for you to spend the rest of your days if it is your will to do so. For as long as you stay here, we will extend only the warmest hospitality to you. As the Abbess of this fine abbey, I would like to say welcome to Loamhedge."
Blackstrike, now clad in a fresh, forest green habit, grinned sheepishly, slightly embarrassed by all of the attention she was getting. "Well, thankee marm. Uh...I guess I'd just like t' say thanks fer takin' me in. I'll stay here a good long time, an' I hope time's good t' us all."
A squirrel suddenly burst through the doors of the Main Hall and ran up to the Abbess.
"I thought you'd like to know this," he took a deep breath. "A wounded ferret just collapsed outside the gates. We're debating whether or not to bring him in."
The Abbess frowned. "How bad is he?"
"Hard to tell, but he looks bad."
Arum nodded. "Bring him in, but keep him under tight watch." She glanced at Blackstrike. "Come on, I want you to tell me if he is one of the slavers."