Chapture III Prisoner Or Guest?
Jake scrubbed the kitchen windows and kept himself busy, doing odd jobs around the house. He replaced the windows, repaired the roof and fixed the old wood parts of the house. He wiped the sweat off his forehead and admired his work, staring at his reflection in the clear sparkling glass. Staring at it, Jake swore he saw Phillip coming up over the hill and raised his brows. That was impossible, for Manx wouldn't be back for another week. Jake rubbed his eyes, thinking they were tired and sore. Opening them again, he saw the horse, knowing it wasn't in his head.
Phillip ran to the house and took a drink from a water tub, panting with exhaustion. Jake noticed Manx's absence, a feeling of worry washed over him as he placed a paw to his muzzle. He let the bucket in his paw fall and spill as he ran to the horse, checking him for cuts or injuries. Phillip seemed fine, but was dirty from running through mud.
"Phillip, where's dad?" asked Jake, taking the horse's face and looking him in the eyes. Phillip made some noise and Jake knew something bad happened. "Right, you rest for a moment. I'll grab some stuff from the house, then we're leaving to find dad."
Jake ran into the house and got a cloak, pulling it on. He went to an old wardrobe that was in the back room, opening the doors to reveal a cross bow and arrows. Seeing the weapon, he reached out and felt the wood against his paw, knowing he'd never handled the item before. With a frown, he took it and pulled the arrow holder over his shoulder. He left the house and locked the door, making his way over to the horse.
"Take me to him," said Jake, climbing up onto the horse, and waiting for him to go.
Phillip did as he was told and made off into the wood, following the path back to the area he last was. Jake felt the wind whip though his fur and cape as he held Phillip's mane tight. Phillip lead him along the thicket of the timberland and out to a dirt path, coming to the fork in the road. They hooked a left and came upon a patch of fog, making it difficult to make out where they were. Slowly, Jake was able to see a shape, spotting something among the fog.
Jake gasped as the tipped over cart came into view, seeing Manx's hard work destroyed. All the supplies had been ransacked and rummaged through, leaving nothing left to salvage. A type of animal must have gotten there, for the basket of food was gone. Jake shook it off and headed deeper into the unknown. They came to a large double iron gate, Jake climbing off and opening it for Phillip to get through.
Jake stopped at the bottom of the steps, spotting something important laying on the ground. He jumped off Phillip and reached out to pick up a rose, glancing from it to the intimidating looking castle that stood before him. He clutched the flower close, rising to his feet once more.
"You stay here, Phillip. I'll go check it out," said Jake, patting the horse before he turned back to the stone palace.
With a gulp he took the bow and held it in his paws, not knowing what lay ahead of him. He went up the stairs and kicked the door open, whipping his brow from right to left, ready to shoot the owner. He saw nothing, so he lay his weapon to his side and walked around the room, feeling small compared to the big building. He passed by a candlestick and clock, not noticing their curious gaze.
"Check it out Uncial. It's a male."
"I can see it's a guy."
"If I were straight I'd say he was a handsome one too," spoke Felina quietly, watching Jake. "What did I tell you. I knew the old kat might've had a son. I mean look at him, he's here, and real."
"Yes, now be quiet," whispered Feral, seeing the lean male walk about, looking at the pillars.
When Jake turned the candle and clock froze, becoming still once more. He swore he heard it, the voice of a female echo though the room. He looked for the owner of it, thinking someone had to be lurking in the shadows. He went to a table that sat near a fireplace, noticing the items were beautiful and fancy looking. He heard a cough and turned, thinking someone was behind him.
"Who's, out there? I'm here for my father? Please, he need special care." He waited for someone to speak and when no one did, he figured it was up to him alone to save Manx. He heard a cough come from upstairs and took hold of his bow. "Fine I'll get him on my own."
He made his way up the steps and hooked a right to where he thought Manx might be. He walked by places where the building was crumbling and falling down, wondering how such a sturdy structure could fall apart. He stuck close to the still standing part and came to a spiral staircase, hearing a cough from up at the top, letting him know he was getting close to his father. He rushed up, going higher and higher, determined to find Manx. He came out to a prison area and saw several cells, trying to figure out which one Manx could be in. He heard a cough and knew right away Manx was among the cold dreary jail.
"Manx, it's me, Jake. Where are you!?"
Jake glanced from left to right, trying to find what cell he was in. He saw a paw reach out and went to it, throwing his bow aside as he dropped to his knees. He reached through the steel bars to take Man'x paws, seeing he appeared to be okay, all but the coughing and cold paws.
"Kats alive, your paws are like ice. Who's done this to you?"
"Jake, good heavens what happened to ye? Why are ye all bruised up, who hurt you?"
"Just a little fight I got into, nothing to worry about." Jake tugged the bars, trying to open the door. "I have to get you out of here. I can pick the lock, hold on."
"No, ye have to go, get out of here before it find ye. This castle is alive."
Manx glanced around with concern, hoping to keep Jake from being captured as well. Manx was about to speak further when footsteps interrupted them. He tightened his grip on Jake's paw and gasped.
"Oh, no, it be too late."
"What's too late?"
Jake heard a growl, the echo of someone climbing the stairs filled the room. Claws scrapped to the stone, making the pair's ears flinch at the terrible sound produced by some large claws. The voice that followed, sent a chill down Jake's spine.
"Well, look what we have here. Another intruder," spoke a deep gruff voice from behind Jake.
Jake in a flash reached and grabbed his bow, aiming it to the shadow behind him. He was going to let the arrow loose when.
Snap!
The bow broke in two, falling from his paws to the stone floor. Jake gasped and stared with wide eyes, seeing the two halves laying at his feet. The cloaked figure burst out with a snickered at the misfortune, filling the otherwise silent room with a bellowing laugh.
"Next time you should make sure your weapon works properly before you try to kill someone. Otherwise, it will be you who dies."
"You don't scare me."
"You've got a sharp tongue there, Razor."
"It's Jake, Jake Clawwson."
"Clawson?"
Jake frowned and wasn't about to let the figure get the benefit of the doubt. He scrambled to his feet and stood tall, trying to see the kat he was up against. The dungeon was mostly dark, making it impossible to see the figure clearly. From his silhouette, Jake could tell his frame was tall and his build was husky.
"Yes, now who are you? Why have you imprisoned my father?"
"I'm the master of this palace to which you stand upon."
The mutant towered a good foot over Jake, gesturing with a thick arm. On his wide shoulders was a dark blue cape, that hung down his back to the floor. He was still in shadow, so Jake turned his head to the side, giving him a curious expression, seeing only a pair of glowing red eyes.
"Come into the light so I can see you. Or are you a coward, sir?" said Jake, squinting his his eyes to try and see what he looked like.
The kat was hesitant and seemed reluctant at first, but slowly lifted a paw to his head, removing the hood as he made his way over into the light. Jake's eyes widened as he saw the a burly tabby. His fur was blond with three dark brown stripes down his left arm. What was out of place was his scaly right half, that made the right side of the face appear deformed. Jake swallowed hard and met the taller male's gaze, thinking he could straighten things out in a diplomatic way.
"Why have you done this too him? What ever he's done, I'm sure we can fix it. Please, I'll do anything to free him."
"He trespassed on my land and home. He ate my food and stole a rose from my garden. Acts from only which a low life thief could commit."
"Lies! My father is no thief, and I was the one who asked for the rose. Punish me not him. Now let him go."
"Afraid I can't do that my skirt wearing friend," said the mutant, eyeing up Jake's outfit.
"It's a kilt not a skirt."
"Whatever, back to my point. This is punishment fitting for a thief. If I just left your father walk, he'd have learned nothing. What can I say, life is unfair." The mutant placed a large paw to Jake's shirt collar and spoke right in his face. "He stays here as long as I live."
"A life sentence for a few missing items that could easily be replaced? You're simply being unfeasible with your commands. I mean stealing is wrong, and I'm not condoning it. But I'm sure you have more food then you know what to do with. And the plant will have a blossom and bloom in no time. You're juts being childish."
"Your words are meaningless. He's staying here and that's final!"
"Aye, guess that's what happens around here when ye pick a flower," retorted Manx, glaring over at the mutant, who was unmoved. With a growl, Manx instantly cowered.
"Yes, and I doubt you brought any money in the purse of yours," said the mutant, poking the leather pouch that hung from Jake's kilt.
"It's a sporran, you unintelligent, jerk."
"You didn't think to bring money for ransom, did you? Or try to bribe me with some possession you own into letting your father go? No, nothing."
Jake frantically checked his pocket for anything that could be useful. He stopped and hung his head, knowing he forgot something before he left. With a satisfied nod, the mutant spoke once more.
"Who's the unintelligent one now? There's nothing you have to offer me. Now begone before I throw you in jail with him."
Chance grabbed a hold of Jake's arm and pulled him away from the bars of the cell. Manx reached out, watching helplessly as Jake was forced to walk away. Jake attempted to pull himself from the mutant's grip, glancing back over his should to see Manx. The quick thinking kat went over what he said, then an idea struck him.
"Hold on! What if I stay. You'd let him go then? It shouldn't matter who stays, as long as punishment is done to someone, right?"
"Is this some joke?"
"No, it's no B.S. I'll take his place and stay as long as I live. You have my word."
"But you must promise to stay forever."
"You have a deal."
"No! Jake don't do it, just go! Ah made the mistake of comin' here. Ah'm the one who should be punished, not ye," said Manx, clinging tightly to the bars, hoping his son would listen to him. "Please Jake, just leave. Ah'm old, ye be young, go on and live ye life."
Jake turned and met his father's worried and tear filled gaze. It pained him to see his father so upset by what he thought was a good offer. Jake was released and hurried back to Manx, taking his paws. Jake with a sadness sighed heavily, lowering his head in defeat, knowing he should respect the older kat's wishes. Manx breath a breath of relief, glad Jake saw it his way.
"All right, I'll go, dad. Sir, may I have a moment to say my goodbyes?"
The mutant rolled his eyes, shaking his head. He snort and glanced away, making Jake think he wouldn't be allowed in the cell.
"You're so cruel you wont let a son say goodbye to his own father? Forever can spare a moment."
The mutant was silent for a moment and with nod, pulled a leaver and opened the cell door for Jake to enter. Jake was going to enter, when Chance grabbed him by the shirt and held him back, wanting him to know good deeds came with a cost.
"Make it quick, for when that door closes, it wont open again."
Jake gulped and nodded, letting him know he understood. Happy, he set Jake down, who quickly rushed in. Manx got to his feet and opened his arms wide for Jake to enter. Jake went to his father's side, throwing his arms around him.
"Oh, Manx," said Jake, spinning Manx in his hold.
"Oh, Jake, my boy. Go live ye life, forget me."
Manx rubbed his paws on Jake's shoulders, placing the other to Jake's saddened face. Jake grinned and met Man'x gaze, feeling tears fall down his cheeks.
"Forget you. Everything I am is because of you. Your love, understanding, caring. Not even my real father could measure up to the example you set for me. I love you so much," said Jake, holding Manx close and whispering the last part in his ear. "And I will find a way to escape."
Manx made a confused noise, not knowing what Jake was talking about Jake quickly pushed Manx out and pulled the cell shut, making it clang loudly. The mutant flinched and jumped back, staring with wide eyes as Manx fell to his feet. Red eyes looked from Manx to Jake, who met his gaze with uncertainty. Jake stood tall and took in a breath, puffing out his chest to act tough.
"I'm taking his place. Now please, see to it he makes it home all right. I'll keep up my end of the bargain."
"Why do all this for an old geezer like him? What could you possible gain from becoming my prisoner?"
"Nothing. As long as I know he's okay and well, I'm fine wherever I am. Even if it means rotting away in this cell," said Jake, meeting Chance's gaze. "I doubt someone like you would understand self sacrifice, for the sake of those you love. He's family, what else was I to do? Would you not do the same for your own father."
"No, I wouldn't think twice about save the old jerk. You're a fool," he sneered, slamming his large fist to the bars, making Jake flinch. "Choosing a life of imprisonment over a life of freedom. What kind of guy would want that?"
"Me, I guess."
"Jake, what have ye done!" exclaimed Manx, trying to get to his feet.
He went to the latch, wanting to free his son. Before he could get much father, the mutant grabbed Manx and threw him up over his broad shoulder. Manx tried to free himself from the strong kat's hold, yet the mutant didn't even flinch.
"No! Jake!"
"You have a deal. You stay here with me and the old kat goes back to wherever it is he came from," said the mutant, turning and walking away, leaving Jake in the background.
"Please, don't hurt him!"
Jake clutched the bars, trying to keep his eyes on Manx, who cried out and called for him. Jake sighed and hit his fist into the metal, knowing he would never see his father again. Would see their home, even the town. Well, he would't miss that too much. He went to the back of the windowless cell and slumped down to the floor, feeling the dampness along his fur.
The mutant held the struggling Manx as all he did was beg for him to spare Jake. He didn't respond and kept walking till he reached the bottom of the staircase, seeing a candlestick and clock waiting for him. He brushed by and went to the door, unmoved by Manx's sobbing. Manx pounded his paws into the mutant's back and kicked his legs like a child throwing a tantrum. Manx was certain he could get free and go back to save Jake, but he was no match against the robust male. Without any more fight left in him, he spoke.
"Please, Ah ask ye to let me son go! Ah'm the one who took from ye, punish me! Ah beg ye!"
"He made his choice, and now you have to live with it." He went to a carriage that sat outside, setting Manx in and strapping him down. He shut the door and stood back, pointing to the direction of the town. "Take him back to the village."
The cart stood and walked off like a bug, fading into the forest with Manx still calling out. He snorted and went back, whipping his cape and entering into the castle. Closing the door, he found Felina and Feral waiting for him, sitting on the ground and looking up at him.
"Sir, Chance, seeing the kat will be with us from now on. Maybe we should give him a nicer room," said Felina careful to not upset the boss. Chance passed Felina, blowing out her flames. "Then again maybe not."
He left the two, advancing to the upper level of the castle, heading to the jail cells. Chance entered the prison cells and found Jake holding his knees to his chest, shivering, teeth chattering from the cold area. Chance walked over to the jail and cleared his throat, making Jake look up from his lap.
"I'll take you to your room."
Chance reached to the lever and opened the cell door, lifting his paw up to show Jake out. Jake trembled and clutched his cloak, wondering why Chance was letting him out. Well, at least it would make escaping easier. Jake got to his feet, surprised by the the blond tabby's gesture.
"Wait, I thought you said 'Once this door closes, it wont open again'," aid Jake, mimicking Chance's gruff voice. "I thought this was to my room?"
"You really want to stay here?"
"No."
"Then follow me."
He held the door and his cloak oped up, showing off his fit figure. Jake wasn't the type to ogle males, especially back at the village. But he couldn't help but steal a glance to the strapping male before him. True, he had that whole half mutant thing, but he wasn't all that bad. Realizing, he stole a glance to long, Jake lowered his gaze. He stepped out and stood beside Chance, rubbing at the back of his neck.
Chance turned and Jake followed closely behind, not wanting to get lost in the many corridors or passageways that filled the narrow hallway. Chance lead him down the staircase and through a dark hall, where knights armor stood at attention on either side of the hall. Jake held tight to his cloak, wishing her were back at home. Jake studied the place that was his new home, but couldn't help but gaze to the back of the tough tabby.
They came to a set of doors and stopped. Jake wasn't paying attention and bumped into Chance, who only stepped away. Jake smiled sheepishly and glanced about nervously. Chance stayed poised and unruffled, rubbing a paw to his mutated arm. He cleared his throat, causing Jake to look up from the floor.
"Right here is your room. If you need something my servants will attend to you."
He opened the door and Jake entered, looking around the room He saw it was beautiful decorated, with gold trim and brightly painted walls, very luxurious compared to his cell room. The furniture was carved to match, in color and design. While Jake checked out his new home, Chance watched the slender male, seeing him move about the space.
"This, is all mine?" asked Jake.
"You'll be here from now on."
Chance cast his gaze away from Jake's bright eyed ones. Not knowing what else to say or do, Chance slowly stepped out of the room, remaining in the doorway. Without another word Chance closed the door, leaving Jake alone in the large suite.
Jake whirled about and heard the door shut. Like that Chance was gone and Jake was left unsupervised. He stood there for a moment in the center of the room, wondering where these supposed servants were. He heard their voices, but never once saw anyone. Alone, he lit up with an idea and went over to the window, throwing it open, thinking he could climb out. He stared down, seeing a good sixty to seventy foot drop, possible even farther. Leaning far over the sill with a gaped mouth, he spoke.
"Guess I wont be jumping out of here. Dang it. I bet that guy did this on purpose. Placing me in the tallest tower so I wouldn't be able to climb out. Maybe there is a small brain between those to pointy ears of his."
He came back in and scanned the room, seeing a wardrobe, bed, and dresser. He raced over to the bed, taking the sheets in his paws, examining the fabric. He heard a creaking sound and turned his attention to the wardrobe, thinking the sound came from it. Seeing nothing, Jake went back to checking the clothe, seeing how strong it was.
"Maybe if I tie the sheets together, I can make a rope long enough to reach the bottom. This wont be enough. Maybe there are some clothes the wardrobe I could use as well."
Jake put the sheets down and placed his paw upon the wardrobes door handle, getting ready to open it. They flung opened on its own and sent Jake sprawling to the floor. To his horror, the wardrobe moved on its own, making Jake wonder if he was loosing his mind. What really made him scared was when he heard it speak.
"Oh, what is this?" asked a female voice.
The wardrobes' front golden trim opened like arms as the large object looked about. Jake with a surprise expression, gazed up and saw it had a mouth and eyes, making the fur on the back of his neck stand on end. He crawled away and stared at it with wide brown eyes.
"Well what do we have here? A little kat. And where are you from puny kat?" asked the wardrobe, bending over and looking down at Jake. Seeing it was a normal kat she lit up with joy and went on. "Someone to dress, let's see what I have in my draws."
The bottom draw opened and little moth flew out and fluttered by Jake, heading out the opened window. He wished could could do that, but fate made him a kat. He turned from the window back to the towering wardrobe, not knowing what the object would do to him.
"Oh, how embarrassing. Now lets get a better look at you."
She reached down and Jake cried out in fear, covering his bruised face. He tried to get away but she took hold of his right foot and lifted him up off the ground. He was upside down and felt the blood rush to his head. He let his arms fall loosely down, dangling every so slightly.
"Yes, nice fur tone, lean build. Yes you'll do perfect."
"Kats alive! Is this some sort of torture room?"
Jake placed his paws quickly to his kilt, keeping it up, not wanting his underwear to show. She laughed but kept checking him out.
"It can be."
"Oh, Ann Gore, put that young male down before you hurt him. He's already had a long enough day without you pocking him," said a female voice, coming from a tea cart.
A dog barked and along Jake turned his head, seeing a tea pot and a little tea cup huddled close to her on the cart. Jake in a instant was dropped head first to the ground, where her landed in a heap. The pot gasped.
"Gently, Ann, don't break him."
A piano seat ran about Jake, lifting it's lid as it baked happily to Jake who lay on the floor. Jake pulled himself up off the ground and rubbed at his sore snout, knowing it would only be one more bruise to add to his face.
"Oh, good heavens child, where did you get such bruises? I knew the master has a temper, but I've never seen him hit anyone before."
"Oh, no. I get beat up back where I cam from," said Jake, fixing his kilt and sitting with his legs in a 'v' shape.
He saw the tea pot pour some tea into the tea cup, amazed beyond words and didn't know what to say. He watched the sugar and milk pour themselves into the cup as well. A spoon mixed the drink together before the cup made its way to the edge of the cart.
"Well, I'm sorry to hear that, dear," said the tea pot, watching the piano seat curl up in Jake's lap, panting from the excitement.
"Oh, Al seems to like you. Wait till you met my husband. Johnny is such a nice guy, he's also an amazing piano player," said Ann, watching Al nuzzle into Jake, hoping to get a pat on the head. The seat was a similar color as the wardrobe, making them half of a full set.
Jake smiled and stroked the seat cushion, feeling the soft fabric under his touch. It was weird to be talking to household items, yet here he was. Talking and stroking a seat that was a dog.
"Here you go, love. Drink up. Careful Steele, don't spill," said the tea pot, watching the tea cup make his way over to Jake. Jake sat back and stared down at the porcelain object that settled at his knees. The tea pot, seeing his uncertainty spoke up. "Go on dear, have a sip. You must be thirsty."
Jake did as the mother-like pot said and picked up the tea cup, holding it in his paw He couldn't help but wonder what caused these object to talk and achieve thought as kats would. He took a sip from the cup and let the warm beverage go down his dry throat, warming him up. He hadn't realized how dry he was, till he drank.
"His muzzle feels funny mama," said Steele, feeling Jake's fur brush at his top. "Check this out."
He moved about in Jake's paw, and Jake pulled the cup away. Steele grinned and looked up with bright eyes. Steele held in a breath and caused tea to bubble up over his top. Jake chuckled and wondered how he could do that, when he had no internal organ. Logic aside, he was cute.
"Steele." The cup laughed and held still for Jake to finish drinking from him. "And pardon my rudeness, I'm Abby Sinian, or Mrs. Abby as everyone calls me. This is my son, Steele."
"Nice to meet you, I'm Jake Clawson."
Jake got ready to shake her paw, only to realize she didn't have one. He quickly brought his paw to his face, brushing back a few strands of hair that hung over his forehead. He was going to speak again when his stomach growled loudly, causing Al to sit up.
"Geezes mister, sound like you're hungry."
"Dear you follow me and I'll get you something to eat. Steele, go on ahead and tell the others to set another spot at the table for our guest." Mrs. Abby turned to her son, who nodded and left the room, saying good bye to Jake. Mrs. Abby sighed and turned to Jake. "He's a good boy."
"He's entertaining that's for sure," said Jake, getting to his feet, letting Al off his lap. He turned to say something to Anne, but noticed she was snoozing away. "Kats alive, is she okay?"
"She gets tired a lot and rest often. This way dear. We don't want dinner to get cold." Jake did as he was told and followed her down the hall, seeing Al stroll by his side. "I must say that was an awfully brave thing you did for your father. The others told me the bargain you made with the master."
"Yeah, I just hope he's okay. He's never been on his own like this."
"Cheer up child, it will all work out in the end. You'll see."
Her cheery disposition and kind voice reminded Jake of his mother in some small way. He thought maybe with the company of her and the others, maybe living here wouldn't be so bad.
In the kitchen flames roared as it cooked food on top of its stove. Felina and Feral made their way around, making sure things ran smoothly. Glasses, plates and a salt and pepper shaker moved aside for them to get thought. They went and made their way out to the dinning area, seeing another spot be set for Jake. With a nod, the pair went back to the kitchen and Felina leaped up on top of the stove, seeing the steam rise from the pots and pans.
"I must say, everything looks, oh, so wonderful. Sucks I can't taste, but it smells so divine," said Felina, pulling the lid off a pot and smelling the food within it. She set the lid back and walked from the stove to the sink. "Come everyone, we have a guest tonight. Have to make sure we all look good."
"Faline, as head of the house hold. I am strongly against this. I'm telling you, your plan wont work."
"Yes, and a broken clock is right two times a day. Honestly, Uncial, how are thy to fall in love, if this Clawson remains hidden in his room. I'm know, feel, he was sent here to help us. A gift from the Great One."
"If Chance finds out we're sneaking behind his back, he'll blame me for your mess."
"I'll make sure of it. And after all, I wont take no for an answer." She looked over the dishes and hopped onto the dinner cart, that took her to the table.
Feral sighed and followed her, knowing he had no control over the adult.
Coming through the opened doors came Chance. He walked to the head of the table and glanced up to see another place set down at the father end. He inhaled through his nose and puffed up with anger. He slammed his fists onto the table, sending the sound all the way to the kitchen area.
"Feral!"
Came the loud booming voice of Chance, making everyone stop where they were. Both Felina and Feral gulped, knowing Chance was unhappy with what they had done. Chance stormed into the kitchen, fuming with rage, looking for them among the busy room.
"What the cuss you guys. I thought he was going to be served up stairs, not at the table with me?"
"We thought you'd like the company. Beside don't you think maybe you should try to win his affection. Has it not accrued to you that this Jake could be the one to break the spell. To put an end to the Pastmaster curse that ruined not just yours, but all of our lives," pointed out Felina, looking from Chance to the table out in front of them."You have to push your pride aside and talk to him."
"Why? He's the son of a common thief. What type of kat do you think that makes him?"
"Oh, you can't judge someone by who and what their fathers do. Now can you Mr. Furlong?" quipped Feral.
Chance stood still and sneered, digging his claws into his palms, feeling anger boil back up. Hearing his father name brought back his past demons, things he wished to keep away and hidden. He growled deep in his throat, knowing why Feral made such a cutting remark.
"Everyone, Jake, is coming!" said Steele, coming in.
Hearing this Chance's ears fell flat, not knowing what he was to do.
"Great, he'll be here soon and I don't even know what to say. I hope you have some good advice for me."
"Yes, of course. When he enters give him a dashing smirk. Come, come, show me the smile," said Felina, pushing Faral aside, making Chance focus on her. "I know the old Chance is still in there. Come on now, show off that smooth smirk of yours."
Chance groaned, but hearing the pep talk perked him up, giving him a little bit of confidence. He smiled and drew his lips back, showing off his razor sharp teeth, making everyone gasp. He growled and groaned, knowing it was useless.
"This isn't going to work. He's a handsome, and I'm, I'm. Well look at me! I'm a freak. What kind of guy would want that?"
"You must get him to see past all that. If he get to know you he might like you."
"Maybe," muttered Felina.
Outside the dinning room, Jake heard the voice of Chance and saw his shadow from in the kitchen. With a small gasp, he turned and slowly went back to the stairs, trying not to be seen. Mrs. Abby went to say something to Jake, thinking he was behind her. With a panicked expression, she found him was gone.
"Jake dear, where are you?"
Mrs. Abby headed back to see if he tried to flee from the castle. Jake was in the middle of the hall when she came over, wondered what his next move would be. Jake bolted back up stairs, going as fast as her could. With a sigh, she knew she had to break the news to the others.
In the kitchen, Feral paced back and forth in front of Chance, commanding him like a general with a soldier. Feral inspected Chance, pocking him with a wooden spoon to stand taller.
"Straighten up, try to act more like a gentleman."
As Feral went on, a feather duster came flying over to the group. It was a duster at the bottom, but the handle part had a she-cat figure on it. The figure had blond hair and tan fur, wearing small glasses on her tiny face. The duster floated over to the candle stick and glanced from her to the two males.
"So what's up Felina?"
"Well Callie, we're trying to fix Chance up with a guy name Jake. It's all a part of my master plan."
"You and your master plans."
"Got you to marry me didn't it?"
"Is there anything I can do?"
"Step in, Chance could use all the help we can give."
Callie wanted to help in some way, turning from her wife to Feral. She heard Feral going on about what Chance should do, though he was going about it all wrong.
"If I may Faral. Chance-" started Callie, until they heard the door open.
Everyone froze, thinking it could be Jake. Their surprised expressions fell, when they saw it was only Mrs. Abby, who came in on the cart. Callie with a confused expression spoke up.
"Where's the guy? I thought you went to get him."
"Well, he was right with me. Then, then, he went back to his room."
All were quiet and turned to Chance, wondering how he would handle this.
"WHAT!" shouted Chance with fury, bolting through the doors and racing down the dinning area, heading to Jake's room. The others went after him, hoping to talk some sense into the hotheaded kat. Chance reached the door and pounded on it, shaking the very foundation. "I thought you'd be coming to dinner!"
"Chance, please, attempt to control your temper."
Callie flew in front of his face, placing a paw out to stop him from hitting the doors. He was forced to back up, not wanting to hurt her.
"Yes, the poor thing is in there probably scared to death."
On the inside of the room, Jake threw the rope of tied up clothes and sheets out the window, seeing fall into the darkness below. He went to the window to see if the rope was long enough, but to his dismay, it wasn't. He stopped his work when he heard the banging at the door and heard Chance's bellowing voice. Jake stood there and heard other voices on the outside. He couldn't hear what they said, but they seemed to be trying to calm Chance down.
"Be gentle. Try it again, only with less force."
Chance slowly calmed and knocked on the door. Like Mrs. Abby said, Chance did his best to be gentle.
"Will you join me for dinner?"
They gasped when they heard foot steps on the other side. They brightened and were expecting him to open the door.
"No thank you," responded Jake from within the room.
Chance stiffened up and was slowly steaming with anger. Seeing this, Callie quickly spoke up.
"Please, attempted to be a gentleman. At least long enough to cox Jake out from hiding."
"Yes, try to keep your cool, this time," added Felina, standing beside her wife.
"But he's being so difficult."
"Gently sir, gently." assured Mrs. Abby.
Chance sighed and straightened up, trying to pull himself together. He faced the door and most likely Jake, who could be standing on the other side.
"It would give me great pleasure if you would join me for dinner."
"You've taken me as your prisoner. Now you're asking me to dinner? Are you absolutely mad? To think that I would eat with you after everything you've done."
"This isn't good, he's loosing it," said Callie, hiding behind Felina, who only shook her head.
"Open this, I order you to!" Chance slammed his fist into the door, making everyone shutter. He stopped his banging to try and open it, only to find it was locked. " Where's the bloody spare key for this gosh darn door?"
"Umm, I think we left it in the room," answered Feral with a shrug.
"What! Why would you leave it in the room? Look, enough of thing fooling around, Clawson. Unlock this door, or, or I'll break it down!"
"I don't care, break the darn door down. See if I care! I'm not even hungry!"
"Find, then go ahead and starve! If that stubborn fool won't eat with me, then he won't eat at all! Gah, idiots!"
Chance whipped his cloak and left, slamming a door his shut behind him. From the power of the door shutting a piece of ceiling fell on Feral's head. He worked to remove the dust from, brushing it away.
"Well that didn't go too good," said Felina.
"I told you it wouldn't work," added Feral.
Chance made his way to his room and slammed the doors behind him, mumbling under his breath. "What does Clawson want form me? Does he want me to beg!" He made his way to a table and picked up a mirror. Once he used to admire himself, but now it was the only portal to the outside world. Holding the mirror in his paw, Chance looked at his reflection and spoke. "Show me Jake Clawson."
The reflection of him chanced as a light lit up his face. The view he got was of Jake, sitting on the bed, talking with Ann. He could even hear their voices, listening as Ann spoke.
"He's not as bad as you thing. Why don't you try to get to know him?"
"No, I don't want to have anything to do with that hot headed feline."
Chance placed him paw on the mirror and set it down. His rage and anger melted away and he dropped his head, placing a paw to his forehead.
"There's no way it will work. It's hopeless."
Jake was working on his escape plan once Ann dozed off again, glad she didn't take notice to the line of clothes hanging out the opened window. He was in the mist of his work when he heard a knock at the door, thinking it was Chance.
"I told you to leave me alone!" spat Jake, getting ready to try and climb out the window. He was up in the sill when her heard the voice of the person outside.
"It's just me, Mrs. Abby."
Jake felt like a jerk and quickly went to let her in, never wanting her to think he was mad at any of them. He unlocked the door and hurried back to push the rope out of view, standing to try and shield it with his body. The door opened and the pot with soft eyes, looked from him and saw a rope hanging out the window in the background.
"Oh, it's a long journey back to the village. Perhaps you could use some food before your trip."
"The master said if I wasn't to eat with him, I wouldn't eat at all." He did know if the servants would do as Chance said, and make sure he wouldn't have a taste of food unless the master of the house was present.
"Oh, kats say a lot of things in anger. But it is our choice as to whether or not we believe them. Coming now love?"
Jake followed her out of the room, wondering where Chance was at that time. They went down the hall and Jake picked up Mrs. Abby and carried her down the stairs, not wanting her to fall and break. He entered the dinning area and glanced over the long table, seeing it stretch a long length. The dinnerware giggled and seemed amused by Jake's presence. He jumped and almost dropped Mrs. Abby, gently placing her on the table.
"Everyone this is Jake. Jake, make yourself comfortable and say hello to them," said Mrs. Abby, hopping past them and going into the kitchen.
In the kitchen Mrs. Abby smiled to Felina, Callie, and Feral. She hopped over to where the three were, letting them know of their guest
"Jake is waiting out there for a fine cooked meal. Start the fire, get him a nice meal ready," said Mrs. Abby, blowing steam out of her spout and seeing the stove come to life.
"But remember what Mr. Furlong said," pointed out Feral. "It will be my tail if we're caught."
"Uncle, you don't have a tail," added Felina, gaining a giggle from everyone.
"I mean it! Chance, will have our heads for this."
"Oh, come now Feral. I'm not about to let the young male starve to death, out of some stupid request Chance made."
"Fine! Crust of bread, glass of water," said Feral. "Nothing more, nothing less."
"No Uncial, he's our guest, not our prisoner. We should make him feel welcomed," said Felina.
"Fine, just keep it down, we don't want to disturb Mr. Furlong."
"Look, don't worry Uncial. I have a plan to get Jake to like it here. But what is dinner with out a little music. Johnny, where are you? We need some music."
The piano from before entered another entrance and looked for Felina. The piano wasn't overly big, but was very lovely. He had a sunset painted around his sides with gold trim and black and white keys. He was the third part to Ann and Al's set, showing they were together.
"At your service, Felina. I can't wait to play for an actual audience. It's been so long, hope I'm able to play," said Johnny with great enthusiasm. He lifted his lid and played beautifully, showing he had great talent on the keys.
"You must, your wife is up stairs finding it harder and harder to stay awake."
"I will play my absolute best, for her."
They'd been married for several years, and before they were curse they spoke of having a litter. After the spell they were a flight of stairs and several room apart. Still, their love was strong and kept them going in the dark times.
"Great come with me," said Felina, leading him to the dinning area.
Johnny followed and peered out to see Jake, sitting at the table and waiting for them. Feral stood in the background and watched as they went out, shaking his head with disapproval. Felina stepped up onto the table and waved to Jake, who glanced up with a smile. To his surprise, a piano came out as well, standing close to the table. Johnny waited for the candlesticks queue, knowing she would want to say a few words to the guest.
"Dear sir, Mr. Clawson, you are our esteemed visitor. We are eager you're here with us this evening. So, now, we ask you to have a seat, while the kitchen staff puts out-" Felina grabbed a knife, using it like a cane. She twirled it around and pointed it to Jake, who didn't know where his seat was. A chair came up behind him and scooted him closer to the table, making him gasp. Johnny played a few notes, stopping as he hit the wrong key. Felina turned to him and he repeated it, hitting it correctly note this time. Felina took over and finished. "-Your dinner."
She held the knife and tapped her bottomed round edge to the beat, looking up and smiling. Jake seemed enthralled and held a knife and spoon in paw, watching a salad hop about before sitting before him. He tried it and found it tasted wonderful. Then again, he was very hungry. As he ate Felina went on, spinning about.
Felina:
"You're, our guest, yes our guest, who is no doubly the best,
Grab your knife and spoon and prepare to dig in,
To a feast that's the beast, we have lots to give,
Try the house salad, it's magnificent,
Don't trust me, try it yourself,"
Eat up, there's plenty more, this is just the appetizer,
The entire and dessert will be out soon,
Till then savor the flavor of each of your favor,
You're our guest, yes our guest, stay our guest,"
Jake continued to watch the dancing candlestick, weaving to the rhythm. She moved as dishes and other item danced in unison. To light the place like a stage, they had candles setting on plats with cups, pointing the lights at the table. Overhead, Callie held a tin tray and reflected the moons light off it, hitting Felina with a spot light.
Felina:
"Breaded cot, steamed veggies, chocolate covered strawberry,
We prepared each one with care, we hope that you, find them fair,
You're unsure of these new meals, after one bite you'll have the feels,
No more worry or complaining, for now you're weight is gaining,
They make figs I do jig, prancing along with the beat,
And it all for you our new best friend,
Eat your grilled bass, raise up your glass, lets make a toast to the host, who the most not to boast,
You're our guest, you're the best, you're our guest,"
A dinning carts came out and made a pass around Jake to reveal the items Felina named. Under one was Feral, who sat in a cake, about to speak his mind to the singing candle. Felina with a smile inflamed cake and Feral along with it. Feral only frowned as he was taken back to the kitchen.
Jake took a spoon full out of each and watched Felina dance as best she could. He smiled and tapped his foot along to the beat, finding it hard not to like the household objects and there dancing routine. The lights went down as the mood and tone of the song changed. A coat hanger came in and played a sad sound on a violin, while the piano changed its tempo.
Felina:
"Without someone to cater, how can a kat be a water,
I must confess these time have been a mess,
Oh, those day I felt my heart beating, Eh Uncial,
Now I miss its unnatural fleeting,
And Feral here's been groaning, spending most of his days moaning,
Needing purpose, a reason to go on,
These days we lounge around the palace, getting careless you walked in and brought back balance,"
Feral came into the room and made his way over to try and silence Felina, who only brought him into the act. Felina wrapped her arm around Feral as a salt and pepper shaker made it look like snow above them. Felina dipped Feral and pulled him up, spinning him off the table, where he landed with a bang. Felina whipped about and the scene changed from the dinning area to the kitchen, where Mrs. Abby was.
Mrs. Abby:
"He's our guest we've been blessed, thank the God he's not a pest,
I'm hopping pop the top of, the finest wine bottle,
At his third course we'll bring him tea, dear me look at me,
Acting like a kit and steaming, bobbling up to my top,
I'll boil, steam out my spout, goodness sake, no one shell pout,
Let's get out its time for our big shot,
With my voice of silk, would like some milk, our guest,
He's our guest, he's our guest, he's our guest,"
Mrs. Abby hopped around the counters and watched the napkins move from side to side behind her. She went to the cart and blew steam out her spout. Steele sat beside her and the cart wheeled out to the table, where it stopped by Jake. He smiled and was offered him some tea. Felina, Johnny, even Hackle the coat hanger joined in on the song. Others came out and sang their hearts out, feeling glad to have someone to impress.
Felina and company:
"He's our guest, he's our guest, thanks God he's not a pest,
It's been to long since we got the chance to serve, so we're over joyed,
How's your meal, don't counsel,
How you feel, we want to know,
As the sun sets, we want things to be perfect,
Dish, by dish, course by course,
We'll wait till, you've had your fill, and can't eat another single bite,
You'll roll up stairs but you'll have no cares, your're our guest,
You're our guest, you're our guest, please remain, our guest."
The items formed a tower, where Callie burst out of it, along with glitter and sparks. She sang and joined Felina down in front with napkins, glasses, and dishes, moving to the fast pace ending. Jake bobbed to the beat and couldn't help but smile at the brightly colored performance that ended on a long note. The table cleared itself, leaving only Felina, Callie, and Feral. Jake stood and clapped as Felina bowed and nudged Feral a bit more to the side, waiting to take most of the praise.
"That was amazing," said Jake, standing and continuing to applaud the pair.
"Wonderful job everyone, very well done. My goodness, look at the time. It sure is late," said Feral, looking to his clock handles and glancing up to Jake. "So, it's off to bed, Mr. Clawson."
"Come now, Feral, I'm not a kitten. Besides, it's the first time I've ever been in a bewitched house hold."
Faral glanced from them to Jake, who smiled kindly.
"Bewitched? Who said anything about being under some spell," said Feral with a half grin. Callie and Felina both shrugged as the salt and pepper shaker hopped by, giggling a bit, only to emphasize Jake's point. Feral twitched a bit and turned to Felina with anger. "You said something, didn't you."
"She said nothing, I think he simple figured it out on his own," retorted Callie.
"If you don't mind, I would like to get a look around. You know, at my new home," said Jake with an innocent smile.
"Y-your new home?" stammered Feral.
"Yes, his new home. Wonderful, come, we'll give a tour," said Felina, wrapping her arms around Callie and Feral, waving for Jake. "Follow us, Mr. Clawson. We'll give you the finest tour of the place."
Jake trailed after them and exited the dinning room, walking down a long hallway. They went into a dusty ball room, showing the place hadn't been used for many years. The chandelier had cobweb all around them, hiding the crystals from view. It was dirty, looking very gloomy.
"Why is this room not clean, when everything else looks so clean?"
"This place only hold bad memories," said Callie with a hint of sadness.
"Mr. Furlong told us to let this part of the castle be," said Feral, glancing around the gray and dark place, recalling how bright and beautiful it once looked.
"Do you blame him?"
"It's in the past, and we don't hold Chance responsible. We've moved on," said Callie.
"Let's keep moving. Being here again is kind of a bummer," said Felina, taking Callie and getting ready to leave.
Feral along with Jake followed them out, leaving the dark room. Jake close the door and shut the light out. They moved on and came to a double staircase that split in two, one leading to a darker part of the castle, the other to a well lit part. This got Jake's attention, making him think that was where Chance might be. Felina, Callie and Feral saw him eyeing up the right flight of stairs and knew they had to steer him away from it. They shot by him and stood so he couldn't walk without stepping on them.
"Where does that lead too?"
"Oh, it just another part of the palace," answered Feral quickly.
"Does it lead to a torture chamber or something awful like that?" asked Jake.
"No, it's where Mr. Furlong goes. His room is up there," blurted out Callie to a flabbergasted pair.
"I wonder what he could be hiding up there?"
Jake lifted a foot and took a step, jumping over the three and going to his destination. They panicked and glanced from each other then back to Jake, thinking of how they could stop him. They raced up the steps and grabbed Jake's feet, trying to keep him from walking.
"Nothing, there is nothing. Just dust and dirt and other unpleasant things. Certainly not a place you want to go. Perhaps you'd like to see another area of the castle. Like the garden area."
"Oh, but I've already seen that."
"Yes, but there are lots of other places we could show you," said Callie.
"T-the weapon room, how about we take a stroll over there," said Feral. clinging to Jake's tail and tugging it back. "The library!"
"You have a library?" asked Jake with excitement, whirling about and holding his tail in front, meeting Feral's gaze.
"Yes, we have many books. You'll absolutely love it." said Feral.
"Indeed, there hundreds of books," added Felina.
"More books then you'll know what to do with."
Jake set Feral down and lead the two females in the direction they wanted to go. As Feral went on, they assumed Jake was behind them. He followed them for a bit, letting them think he was going with them. He stopped for a moment and waited for them to be a good few feet away. With a grin, he turned and headed up the flight of stairs, walking quickly into the dark hall.
He saw a double door at the end of it, curiosity getting the better of him. Slowly, he crept over and placed his paws to the door handles. He was hesitated for a seconds before going pulling them wide open, revealing a large bed chamber. He figured it was Chance's room, noticing a broken mirror and other objects. In between two of the mirrors was a picture, hanging on the wall. Jake went closer, seeing it was torn to shreds making the kat impossible to see. He tried to lift a piece when something else caught his attention.
It was yet another picture, only this one was a family portrait. In the center was a kitten, looking to be about five, maybe six. The kitten's father, or what Jake could see, for the father's face had be scratched out. The male was burly like Chance, but was brown, while the mother was a blond tabby. It was weird, the father and Chance's face had been torn, but the mother's was kept in tack.
Jake was interrupted when a glow, coming from a closed in balcony. He left the panting and walked over to the stone area, brushing a piece of fur out of his face. He saw a blue rose floating in a glass case, setting on a table in the middle of a circular platform. He stared at it with wide brown eyes, finding it majestic. He made sure he was alone before he lifted the glass case, setting it gently aside to get a better look at the plant.
He leaned down and was about to touch it, his fingers only inches from it before a shadow fell over him from behind. He gasped and turned to see Chance's glowing red eyes among the dark room. Chance leaped and went to the plant, staring at Jake with a cold frown. Jake stepped aside and watched as Chance quickly grabbed the glass cover and set in back over the plant.
"What do you think you're doing here? Do you realize what you could've done!" shouted Chance, tossing his cloak back and towering over Jake. "You could've forsaken us all!"
"Maybe it you didn't try to keep me in the dark all the time. I wouldn't have felt compelled snoop around. I'm sorry for entering your room, but I was so curious."
"We all know what curiosity did to the kat, it killed him!"
"If you would just listen to reason."
"Get out! Get of my room!" yelled Chance, slamming though a piece of stone wall, unable to control his temper.
Jake dodged out of his reach and crept back, seeing the rocks pieces clatter along the floor. Chance picked up a vase and flung it across the room, it shattering as it hit the wall. Jake fled, knowing it would have been best to keep his mouth shut. He raced out of the room, leaving Chance, who clasped his paw to his forehead in defeat. With Jake gone, Chance felt guilt sweep over, knowing he made a great mistake.
Chance:
"I apologizes Jake, for my many mistakes,
I've tried for heaven sake,
Yet, I cannot seem,,
I am a mutant, I brought upon this curse,
It's all my fault, for what I sought,
It was a lot, out of selfishness,
Out loneliness, anger and sadness,
Helpless, so hopeless,
Can you ever forgive me, will you come back Jake?
No one could tell me,
No one could control me,
No one on earth,
If Jake won't know me,
No one could reach me,
No one could teach me,
If I can't know him,
How will Jake ever know me,
It's not meant to be, not with me,
The rage I cannot contain,
The shame I can't out run it,
My life's a waste, a fact I can't face,
No one ever held me,
No one ever saw me,
No why would Jake,
If he won't know me,
No paw could reach me,
No faith left within me,
If I can't know Jake,
How will he set me free,
It's not meant to be,
If I can't know him,
How will Jake know me?"
Chance saw how Jake looked at him, knowing it was fear that lay in his brown eyes. He knew there was no use in going after him, why try to stop the terrified kat. He figured Jake would most likely try to go home. With that he looked up and seemed worried about that. The thought of Jake leaving.
Jake ran and didn't even look back, didn't want to see Chance's burning red eyes. He didn't want to see anymore of the castle, was done, finished. All he wanted to do was go home and forget the place. He passed Feral, Felina and Callie, who had been looking for him. They saw him and waved, happy to find him.
"Sir Jake, where are you going?" asked Callie, feeling him rush by, putting out Felina's flame, due to the speed at which the kat passed.
"I'm going home, my real home! I could never call this horrible place home!" answered Jake, storming down the steps at a fast pace. He took his coat from Hacker, who tried to hold him back.
"Please, sir. We beg of you to stay. You mustn't go, it's rather bitter out this evening."
"Hens the coat I want and need to keep warm."
Hackle held tightly to the coat, pulling Jake more his way. Jake tugged his coat free from the coat hanger and opened the door, letting a cold breeze whip in.
"I don't care what I promised, I'm leaving, I can't stand to stay here a moment longer!"
"No, don't!" shouted Feral, making his way down the steep steps.
Snow and wind that flew in, the three shielding themselves from the brutal cold. Mrs. Abby came out to the hall, wondering what all the fuss was about. To her horror she saw Jake's tail going out the opened door.
"Dear, come back!" pleaded. It's not safe out there. Oh, my!"
Suddenly down the stairs came Chance. He stood there, glancing over their horrified faces, knowing Jake left the castle.
"Mr. Furlong he left, we couldn't stop him." said Felina.
"Obviously," said Chance, leaving to going after Jake.