Chapter: IV Light In The Dark
Jake went to the stable, seeing Philip enjoy his new home. A bucket of water poured itself into the tub, while a scoop dumped feed into his food bowl. A hay rack was filled with alfalfa, and a blanket lay over the horse's back. Philip looked up, seeing Jake grab the rains and enter the stable.
"Let's go home Philip."
He saddled the hoers up an led him out of the stable, leaving the comfort of warmth for the brutal evening. Jake climbed up onto him, ready to leave. They made their way through the garden and went pasted the gates, heading into the forest. They ran out in the fog and tried to make out where they were going, breathing Jake panicked.
"Maybe it's this way," said Jake, steering Phillip to the left.
Phillip tripped on a tree root and they went tumbling down a slop to the ground, landing face first in a pile of dead leaves. Phillip got to his feet, shaking the brush from his mane. Jake clutched his sore foot, rubbing the tender area, knowing he wasn't thinking clearly. He brushed himself off and heard an strange sound, coming from somewhere in the fog. He glanced around and noticed winged creatures coming out from the timber, surrounding them.
Jake got to his feet and found a limb to use as a weapon, keeping them back as he tried to get back on Phillip. The horse knew the creeplings were trouble and dashed away from them, running for their lives. A creeplings flew up and tried to bite Jake, who swat them away with a blow from his stick.
They were doing fine until they hit an icy pound, where Philip lost his foot and Jake fell off, hitting the cold ground. Jake slowly got up and tried to help Phillip as best he could, not wanting Phillip to injure himself. Jake heard the the strange noise of the creeplings and went for his stick, knowing they couldn't out run them. The creatures flew out and around the pair, nipping and clawing at them.
"Stay away from me!" yelled Jake, trying to fight them off.
He swung the limb side to side, keeping them at bay. Things went well until one come up from behind him and pulled the stick from Jake's paws, dragging him across the ice. Without a weapon, the creepling attacked Jake, grabbing him by his cloak and pulling him down. Phillip kicked the beats away but was unable to help Jake without injuring himself in the process. Philip reared up and kicked, knocking only a few away.
Jake felt claws and teeth tearing at his clothes and fur, making him scream out in pain. He cowered down in the fetal position, knowing it was only a matter of time before he's be killed. He hated the thought of giving up, but he felt there was no escape, no way to fight them off. He waited to die, but instead heard a creepling screech out in pain as something came out of no where and yanked it aside.
Jake opened his eyes and saw Chance standing over him, shielding him. Chance wore a sheath around his chest and Jake wondered if Chance could even handle a blade. Chance pulled out the sword, ready to take them out. He flew forward and the ceeplings tried to bite him as he came for them. Chance whipped the blade around and sent a couple to the ground, but there were still plenty more to take out.
He jumped though the air, swinging his blade to strike and kill one, tossing its corps off his sword to slash another. He was doing good till he was attacked from behind. Two of the creatures grabbed hold of his cloak and tried to pull him down like they did with Jake, only the mutant was larger and weighed more then the lean male.
Chance went to remove them, when a creepling landed on his head, trying to claw at his face. He dropped his sword, knowing he needed his large paws to remove the creature. He wrestled with the creepling when the others attacked him, covering him in a sea of pink wings. Chance growled and dropped, rolling to get them off his body. The creatures limped away and Chance growled a powerful roar, making them flee in fear. The creeplings were long gone and Chance stood strong, wiping his arm to his damp brow.
Jake wiped the blood from his moth and sat up, watching Chance get his weapons and stagger a bit, putting his weight on the sword like a cane. Jake breathed a few time and saw the vapor of his breath float about. Chance gave Jake a small grin and suddenly his eyes rolled back as he passed out, falling the ground with a thud. Chance may have been bigger, but that didn't mean the cuts and bite marks had no affect on him.
Jake carefully got to his feet and looked ahead, seeing what looked to be a path. He went to Phillip, who stared with gaped mouth to what had just happened. Jake patted him and stood, getting ready to climb on. He heard a groan, as Chance moved a little. He wasn't dead, but left alone, he wouldn't last the night.
Slowly, Jake peered back over his shoulder to see Chance's still body, laying spread out on icy pound. Jake stood there with his paws on Phillip's back as he debating on whether he should stay and help, or go home. He wanted to leave, but his conscious told him to stay and help the injured Chance. He knew he had to do the right thing and sighed heavily, going over to Chance. He bent down beside him and checked for a pulse, finding he was still alive. Jake removed his cloak and placed it upon Chance's back, covering his broad shoulders. Chance groaned and moved under Jake's touch.
"You, have to help me here, Mr. Furlong. I'm not strong enough to lift you," said Jake ,pulling pieces of fur out of his face, trying to met Chance's gaze.
Chance slowly opened his eyes and seemed dazed, staring up at Jake in confusion. Chance's vision was burly, but he made out the outline Jake's face. He flicked his ears for they were ringing, making it hard to hear Jake speak tenderly to him. Jake's stared softly down and he seemed to want to help him, but Chance couldn't figure out why. After how he treated hi,, here he was willing to help.
"I can steady you, but you have help me. You have to stand," said Jake in a soft tone, slowly stroking Chance's head.
Chance nodded and slowly put his paws under his body, pushing himself up. Jake looked and saw a pool of blood had collected under Chance, making Jake worry for his safety. He went and took Chance's right arm, giving him some support and aiding him.
"Phillip come here please," said Jake, holding Chance with all his strength, keeping Chance from falling as he swayed from foot to foot, seeming unsteady.
Phillip walked over and stood for Jake to help Chance get on, making sure he couldn't fall back to the ground. With Chance secure, Jake lead them back to the castle, feeling a cold breeze blow through the bare trees. The wind picked up and puffy dark clouds floated over head, a storm blowing in.
Back at the village, Turmoil and the Lieutenant hung out at the local pub, enjoying a few rounds of beer. Well the Lieutenant was, Turmoil not so much. She hadn't seen or heard from Jake, making her plan to win him over fail. She never tasted defeat and it brought her great pain. Sitting in a chair with a blazing fireplace in front her, Turmoil sat in misery. She slouched in her seat, feeling bad for herself.
"How dare he say no to me. Who does zat jerk sink he is? I have never been so humiliated. I feel so embarrassed.."
"Would you like some more to drink?" asked the Lieutenant, walking over with a beer for the Captain.
"No, nothing helps." said Turmoil, taking and throwing the beer in the fire.
"You need to get out of this funk," said the Lieutenant, trying to cheer her up.
Turmoil turned away and tried to ignore the Lieutenant, wanting to be left to sulk some more. The Lieutenant set her drink down and pulled the Captain's chair around to face everyone in the pub, who lifted their cups and smiled. The Lieutenant made her way over to the band and payed them to play as she went on.
The Lieutenant (Pup kats):
"I know it's been rough on you Turmoil,
Being turned down by Jake,
It was just a simple mistake, for he's sure missing out,
Several wish they could be in your heels, or take you out for meals,
All the females want to be you, and all guys want to do, is date you,
No one's, thinks like Turmoil,
No one been where you are,
Or lean in a unhealthily way as you, you are also very wealthy,
(Gaining the eyes of several,)
You can ask just about anybody,
And they'll tell who is not just a pretty face,
No one, (make the guys stare!)
No one can hardly bare,
When you are sad and don't have a single care,"
Turmoil (Pub Kats):
"It true I've been down in the dumps lately,
(After getting dumped, poor Turmoil!)"
The Lieutenant walked away and swung around the beams of the building, swaying to the tune. She made it over to a table and jumped up onto it, gesturing for the kats to join her. The males at the table sang one section and let the Lieutenant finish the rest. The Lieutenant spun around on the table and stood, wanting the others to join in to cheer up the Captain.
Lieutenant and gang:
"No one, dresses like Turmoil,
Or messes with Turmoil,
When it come to attitude she has some to burn,
No one hits like Turmoil,
Or can knit like Turmoil,
If you upset her, you'll get a kick from, Turmoil,
She can do just about anything,
Unstoppable, Turmoil,"
Several of the pubs customers sang, showing they were more then happy to help the Lieutenant. They aided Turmoil up out of the chair and carried her before setting her on a table with the Lieutenant. The Lieutenant showed Turmoil the many paintings that hung on the walls, each one depicting the Captain in different stages of her war career. Seeing how she was represented brought a small smile to Turmoil's face. The Lieutenant tapped and everyone cheered when Turmoil joined in on the jig. They leapt from the table to the bar area, where they danced down it like a stage, moving in time to the music.
Turmoil:
"Growing up I vas told I vas perfect,
In each and every vay,
Now zat I'm grown I know vithout a doubt,
Zat my parent told the truth,"
Turmoil whipped her cape and all the guys fainted, falling backwards. She stood tall and pushed the Lieutenant back, taking center stage. She sang and went to lift a kat off the ground, showing off her strength. She then picked up the Lieutenant and held the note, giving herself a lot of credit. The kats in the pub cheered, clapped and stomped their feet to the beat, eager to hear the Captain sing. Instead, she whipped out her sword and some of the guys went up to fight her, only to lose to the skilled Captain. She jumped from table to table, throwing her opponents here and there, reliving her glory days on the battle field. When she won, she stood tall with a painting of her in the background. They cheered and the Lieutenant went on.
Lieutenant and (Gang):
"Who is, neat, (Turmoil),
Can not beat, (Turmoil),
Who's fabulous, (Turmoil),"
Turmoil:
"Vhen I enter a room I make it marvelous,
Lieutenant and gang:
"Hey say,
Who's the Captain,
Who's the best in success, and the best of the rest,
It's clearly her ,Turmoil,
The girl you know who we're speaking of,
Turmoil!"
The Lieutenant got everyone whipped up as the song became bigger and bigger with several voices joining in. She wasn't the best singer, so the other kats made up for her weak voice, filling the room with noise. Everyone lifted their mug and toasted Turmoil, who bowed to her admirers,. If it was one thing that made the Captain happy, was when she was worshiped and praised by the town folk.
They all were happy and upbeat until the door to the pub swung opened, letting a cold breeze in. Manx came in with a frightened look on their face, dirty and haggard. The entire place turned their attention from Turmoil to Manx, who rushed in as though someone's very life was at stake.
"Someone, anyone, please! Ah need ye help! It has him. It has Jake locked in a dungeon!" said Manx, grabbing a hold of a random kat and shaking him. "Aye, we must go and save the poor lad!"
"Calm down old Manx and tell us what the trouble is?" asked a waitress.
"Aye, it took him, and it has him locked in a prison!"
"What took him?" spoke a voice from the crowed.
"It was a monster, a freak of sorts. A mutant kat. It stood taller then me, had red eyes. A scaly right side, and his face was hideous."
The room was silent, until everyone in the pub burst out in a fit of laughter, finding his statement to be ridiculous. Manx's ears fell and his body shrank, hearing them giggle and make fun of his terrible news. He swallowed the lump in his throat and stood tall, taking in a breath.
"This be no joke! Stop ye laughin', Jake be in great danger. We have to send out a search party right away! We need to find this castle! My son's life depend on this!"
"What evidence do you have to prove what you say is true? For all we know you could be making this up. After all, that odd step son of yours loves to read. We all know that can have dire effects on someone after a while."=
"I believe him," said Paul, stepping forward to defend the older kat.
Manx saw Paul and smiled, glad to see a friendly face among the crowd. Paul walked over as the kats stepped aside, parting like waves. Paul with cane in paw stood by Manx, letting everyone know he supported his statement.
"Ha, you expect us to believe the local idiot," teased Murray, waving a paw to the small kat.
"Please, ye must take me word for it. Ye must help me out." said Manx, glancing about at the many faces.
He spotted Turmoil and thought maybe she would be willing help them. After all she had a crush on Jake and wound help him out, or at least that's what he hoped. Manx walked over and gazed up at the taller female.
"Turmoil, ye care for me son. Will ye not help me, help him? Ah know ye like him, Ah beg of ye, please."
All eye were on the Captain and she remained silent, seeming to go over what he said. She did like Jake, but should she go on this wild goose chase, when Jake was most likely at home hiding from her. The Lieutenant watched as Turmoil stepped forward and made it seem like she would help them out. Her serious face changed to a smirk.
"Yes, of course we'll help you out. Boys give them a paw," said Turmoil gesturing for Burke and Murray to come over and take care of the older males.
With wide smiles, they did as she said and picked the two older kats up. They carried them to the door and harshly threw them out in the snow covered ground, seeing the pair get buried in the snow. The whole tavern laughed and went back to their drink, letting the door shut.
"I tell ya that Manx gets crazier and crazier." chuckled Murray.
"He's always good for a laugh." scoffed Burke, dusting his paws off.
The party atmosphere resumed as everyone drank and talked. Music played and a few danced. Turmoil sat in her chair and seemed to ponder over what Manx said. Perhaps she could use this whole mutant thing to her advantage. She rubbed at her chin and turned to her the Lieutenant, who kept her eyes on the door.
"Lieutenant, I think I have an idea to get Jake to marry me."
"How?"
"A sneaky plan."
The Lieutenant gave Turmoil a curious expression, wondering what the Captain was planing. Turmoil whispered the plan in the Lieutenant's ear, her facing nodding with each word the Captain spoke. The Lieutenant gave her a thumbs up, the pair getting some mugs to tossed her brilliant idea.
Outside the pub, Manx and Paul popped out of the snow and walked away from the brightly lit building. As they went, Paul patted Manx on the back.
"Well, sorry I couldn't do more for ya Manx. So really, where is your boy? I haven't seen him or you around for the past few days," said Paul, walking along side Manx.
"Aye, Ah wasn't makin' up the mutant thing. Ah saw it with me own eyes. It has Jake and Ah could do anythin' to help him. It's all my fault the lads there. If I hadn't pocked my nose into someone else's business, we wouldn't be in this mess."
"A castle? But there was never a palace near our village. Lest not that I can remember."
"The point is, me boy is in trouble."
Manx sneezed, coughing into his paw. Paul felt he was warm, burning up from a fever no doubt.
"Maybe you should get rid of that cold before you go back out to look for your son. In fact once you're well, we'll both looking for your boy. With some extra eyes we should have no problem finding him."
"Thanks Paul, ye be a good fella." said Manx, wiping his nose with a hanker chief. "Why don't ye stay at me place for the time bein'. After all winter is here and an old fella like yeself shouldn't be out in the cold."
"Thanks."
As they went to the stone house, walking up the stone steps and entering the home.
Back in the castle, it had been an entire day since Chance went after Jake and the household began to worry about their well being. Feral and Felina sat in the window, looking out for any sign of life. As they waited a peddle fell from the rose. A sudden shake shook the castle like an earthquake as a piece of the castles stone came tumbling down. The quake lasted for a second before everything went still.
In the window Feral stiffened and was unable to control the handles on his face, causing his bells to chime. It never failed and always happened when a peddle fell, the others felt it too, but in different ways. Felina felt her limbs harden as she struggled to move, making a squeaking sound.
"Oh, another peddle fell. I'm getting more metallic everyday."
"Oh, Felina. I grew four more feathers, and I just plucked yesterday." .
"I know my love. What I wouldn't give to kiss you once more."
"No, my love. I've been burned by you before. We must be strong."
"How can I be strong when you make me so weak." said Felina, forgetting for the moment they weren't alone.
Feral coughed, making the pair stand apart.
"Will you all settle down. We still have time."
Mrs. Abby wheeled over a top the tea cart, with Steele beside her, looking up to his mother with sad eyes.
"Mom, will I ever be a real kitten again?"
"Oh, yes Steele. You'll have your days in the sun."
Feral sighed and turned from the group and gaze out the window. He thought he saw something and got closer to the glass, wiping the fog from it. There coming out though the garden area came Jake, leading the horse with Chance on its back.
"Wow, I pictured Chance carrying him. Not the other way around." said Feral.
He went to the door, that slowly swung opened. Jake shivered and had frost on his face from the cold, teeth chattering as he he kept moving. He looked up to see Chance still unconscious and covered in a thin layer of white. They had been out when the snow came and Jake lent the bury male his cloak, so he was left helpless to the bitter cold.
"We're almost there."
Jake leaned on the warm and sturdy horse, feeling weak and drowsy. Phillip was larger and therefor the cold didn't get to him. Slowly, they came in looking haggard and worn out, dripping as the snow melted from their bodies. They were dirt covered and blood stained, showing something had attacked them.
"Where have you been? It's been a day. We thought you were dead."
Mrs. Abby made her way over to them, seeing Jake and Chance's cut covered bodies. She, being the mother figure was worried out of her wits.
"Here, let me give you a paw Mr. Clawson," said Hackle, leaning down and assisting Jake, who was trying to help Chance off the horse.
"We were attacked. Please bring some water and old rags, I need to clean the cuts before they get infected."
Jake was a bit unsteady himself, shivering. From lack of energy, Jake slumped to his knees and fell to the ground. He spoke, but no one could make heads or tails of what he was saying, for he ramble on and on.
"Oh, dear. The poor things. Lets get these two to bed. They've had a long trip."
"Yes. Briggs, Felina, see to it the horse is all right and taken care of. I don't want him dying on my watch."
"We will, uncle."
Felina took Phillips reins and led him to the stables, where he was given food and water, along with a blanket. Feral went back and watched as Hackle lead Chance up stairs. Other house hold items came in and took Jake to his room, tucking him in bed and letting him rest.
Jake slowly opened his eyes and sat up, seeing he was in bed. The sheets had been untied and placed back on correctly on the bed where they belonged. He glanced down at his body and saw it was wrapped in white clothe, covering his cuts. He thought back to what happened and remembered that Chance came to save him from being eaten alive.
Quickly Jake sprang from bed and went to see if Chance had survived their trip home, pulling a shirt over his body. The shirt had belong to another, for it hung loosely on his lean body. Wait! did he just refer to the castle as home. Never mind that. He had to make sure Chance was okay. He walked to the area where he was forbidden from and with all the courage he could muster, went up the flight of stairs. He walked down the hall and into Chance's bed chamber, seeing the group gathered around his bed. Jake walked in and they turned, surprised to see him.
"Jake? What are you doing here?"
"Yes, love. You should be in bed, getting some well deserved rest."
"I had to make sure he was okay." said Jake to an astonished group.
He limped in and went to Chance's side, seeing he looked worse then before. Like him, Chance had a pair of black and blue eyes, along with large gashes across his chest and arms. The cloak he wore was set aside, making his chest and back wounds easier to get to. Jake knew he was hurt, but did realize how bad it really was.
"Has he said anything or shown any sign of waking?"
"No, he made no sound what so ever. He didn't even respond to us." said Feral.
"Okay, where is the water? I can at least do something since I'm here." said Jake, rolling up his sleeves and taking a seat beside Chance. "Not to be rude, but none of you have paws."
"True that," said Felina.
"Mr. Clawson, you should go rest. We can take care of him, we've done it this long. You've done so much already."
Jake picked Mrs. Abby up and grabbed a bowl, pouring the hot water into it. He set her down and everyone was surprised by his stubbornness, thinking he might be a good fit for Chance. Jake held a clothe and soaked it in the bowl, ringing it out and clearing the dirt from Chance's arm cuts. With one paw, he lifted Chance's thick arm, washing the fur.
He moved to Chance's chest, becoming warm in the face, feeling it rise and fall under his paw. It hit him that he had never been so close to another male like this. Chance was shirtless and here he was, wearing only a shirt to hide he underwear. Caught up in thought, Jake was startled hearing Chance's deep gruff voice.
"Don't you have your own wounds to take care of?" questioned Chance, opening his tired eyes to see Jake's face.
"Yes, but mine aren't near as bad as yours. Hold still now."
Jake pulled the shirt over his shoulder, for the collar was very loose around his neck. He cleared his throat and slowly placed the rag to another flash cut. Chance was fine till the clothe touched his tender skin, making his fur stand on end from the burning sensation. He growled and the group backed up, fearful of his temper. Jake didn't and was unmoved, only flinching from the outburst. Chance pulled the covers over his body and spoke.
"Hey, that hurts!"
"You had a bat-thing claw and bite you, of course it's going to burn when I touch it. If you'd used that small nugget of a brain of yours, you'd see things my way." said Jake waving the rag around, making Chance's eyes widen.
"How dare you say my brain is small. I'll have you know, I was smart enough to get a weapon and go after you. Save your skin from the 'Creeplings' as they are called. And what do I get, a bunch of sh-" started Chance.
"Oh, don't you even start to blame you son of a b-"
"-If you hadn't run off, this wouldn't have happened and I'd still be able to get around properly."
Jake frowned and puffed out his chest, ready to let the male have it. He set the rag on Chance's arm, making the male jump from the sharp pain. He may not have been given strength or muscle, but he made up for in with his smart and wit.
"What the bloody cuss, Clawson! Are you trying to make me mad! If you would have kept your nose out of my business, I wouldn't be in such agonizing pain."
"You listen to me you big brute! If you hadn't scared the wits out of me, maybe I wouldn't have run away. Don't blame me for you mistake."
The group off to the side, stared with gaped mouths, unable to believe what they were seeing. Jake was actually standing up to and winning a vocal battle against Chance. They'd never seen anyone speak to him in such a way, and all they could do was watch as the two went back and forth.
"You shouldn't have entered my room!"
"If you'd taken the time and talked to me in the first place. Let me know where I should or shouldn't go. You're the owner of this place for cripes sake, so take responsibility and grow up you big baby!"
Chance wanted to say something else, but there was nothing he could say. He sighed with annoyance and looked away, breaking his view from Jake's face. He pouted like a kitten and folded his arms over his chest. Jake said nothing more and watched Chance, wondering what he would do. Seeing Chance remain hidden, Jake sighed and thought maybe he should leave. Slowly, Chance turned back and met Jake's gaze, not saying anything, but laying his arms to his sides. Jake knew by this, Chance was allowing him to clean the rest of his cuts.
"There we go. I knew you'd see things my way."
Jake removed the rest of the blood and dirt that matted Chance's blond fur down. He felt Chance tense up, his muscles flexing under his touch. Jake re-soaked the rag and repeated, cleaning cut after cut. When he went to work on Chance's back, he took a seat on the bed behind the Chance, who remained silent. Out of the stillness, Jake spoke.
"By the way. Thank you, for coming after me and saving my life back there. You were quite the warrior fighting those creeplings off."
Chance heard Jake's voice was calmer and kinder, making him blink in surprise. He opened his eyes and turned, watching Jake with a softer gaze. Jake still had his black eyes, that were slowly healing.
"Say, how'd you get those shiners? Were you fighting over a she kat?"
"No, definitely not that." chuckled Jake, not realizing what he was say. He blushed and went to fill the rag with water, ringing the blood from it. "I got beat up by some of the villagers."
"For being gay?"
"What?"
"What did you do to upset them?" asked Chance quickly, changing the subject.
"I was ready to a group of kittens." stated Jake with lowered eyes, reaching a paw to his face. "The fathers didn't care too much for it and tried to knock some sense into me."
"That's dumb. If it were me, I'd have bashed their brains out. Or broken their bones."
"Yeah, well, not all of us are made of steel."
"We'll leave to go get dinner ready." said Feral smiling to the pair. "Seeing's how your okay sir."
"Yes, thank you Feral."
With that the group left and shut the door to give them some alone time. Seeing they were alone, Chance went back to what they were talking about.
"With some work outs you could be. I could teach you a few moves, if you'd like that is?"
"Y-you'd really do that?"
"Yeah, and with me as your trainer, I think I can whip you into shape."
"You'll have your work cut out."
Chance shook Jake in a friendly manner, not thinking too much of it. Jake jumped forward and hugged Chance, something he and his father did often. Chance on the other paw wasn't used to having someone show so much emotion and hugged him back awkwardly.
"Yep. By the way, thank you for bring me back and not leaving me for the vultures."
"I wasn't thinking about it."
"Wow, you really didn't need to share that with me."
Jake smiled and fixed Chance up, wrapping band aids around his arms and stomach, finishing the job. He made sure they were tight but not to uncomfortable to move in. He had Chance stand and move around, seeing if any of the cloth pulled or hurt him.
"Well, after fighting of those creepling, and almost getting kill. I don't know about you, but that builds up an appetite."
"Yeah, I sure could use a nice hot warm meal."
Chance grabbed a robe and with help from Jake, put it on. Jake went for a shirt and pulled it over, seeing it was still plenty big on him.
"I don't know who's shirt this was. But it's rather big for me."
"It was one of my old one."
Chance walked slowly to the door and opened it, feeling his cheeks flush.
"Oh. Well, no wonder it's a bit big for me."
They went down the hall and to the main stair way, hearing the gang laughing and having a good time in the kitchen area. They stopped and Jake chuckled a little, knowing they were like a big family. Not perfect, but were happy.
"They sure know how to have a good time," said Jake, leaning on the stone railing, hearing pans and other items clang loudly. "They really know how to have a good time."
"Yeah, but when I enter the room, laughter dies." said Chance in a gruff voice, looking away.
"Don't feel bad. Maybe I could help you with that if you're going to help me build muscle. I mean I think I'm rather fit to help someone become a gentleman."
"Oh, then you must be popular back at your village?"
"No, actually they say I'm a funny guy. And I don't think their talking about my comedic skills either." said Jake, lowering his shoulders and tail."I don't care what they think. No matter what, I won't change who I am to please them."
"You know, your village sounds terrible. I can see why you were so willing to sit in a cell for the rest of your life, then go to a place where you didn't fit in."
"Almost as lonely as your castle. Can't you leave here?"
"Actually I'm unable to leave. Where the fog stops, that' s the limit. After that, it's like there's an invisible wall keeping me in. I tried for days to see if there was some way around it, but after a month of trying I gave up. There was no place to leave, I became a prisoner in my own home."
They stood for a moment, before Chance spoke again.
"Clawson?"
"Yeah, that's my last name. Why?"
"It's just not a name I ever heard. How long have you lived in Megakat village?"
"I'm thiry-three, so. About the three years."
"You're an outsider?"
"Yes, we lived in Paris when I was a baby. Till my mom died. After that, dad packed up and we went from place to place. Guess, that where my love for books came into play. I never made friends, knowing we'd move in a few days, or weeks. " Chance listened, his ears flickering once or twice. "We came here, as dad was getting tired of traveling, looking for a place to retire. We settled on the village, as I read up on it, seeing it had a kingdom and was run by a King and Queen. The strange thing was, when we got here and I asked someone about it. They said there was never a castle, or royal family. Do you know what became of them? Since your the head servant, I'd assume you'd know there whereabouts?"
"The Kind and Queen? The Queen died twenty-six years ago, I was young when she passed. The king died about, (15) years ago."
"I see, what about there son?"
"The Prince? Well, Razor, he umm.."
"Chance, Jake, dinner is ready!" called Mrs. Abby from down stairs.
"Coming," said Chance, turning to Jake. "I'm sorry."
"For telling me about the King and Queen."
"No, for my behavior. I've been a real jerk to you. You didn't deserve that, no one does. I hope you know, that no matter how mad I got, I would never hurt you."
"I know that. Heck, even I've got a temper. One day I got mad at my invention and took a wrench to it. It was my loss as I spent the next day hammering the dents out."
"I thought you were. You know, afraid of me."
"No, I just hate confutation. That's why I fled. Well that and you threw a vase."
"Yeah, I was just throwing that. I didn't mean for it to go at you. I was aiming for the wall, you just happened to move in it's path. Can we start over?"
"I'd like that. Hi, I'm Jake Clawson. The local odd ball, lover of books, music, and learning," said Jake, extending his right paw to Chance.
"I'm Chance Furlong. A hot headed guy, who likes to lift weights, play the harp, and dance." said Chance, taking Jake's paw and shaking it.
They went to the dinning area and ate, going back and forth. They laughed and were really getting to know the others. As the pair spoke, the gang couldn't help but feel happy. This was the first time they'd seen so much emotion from Chance. That night the pair said good night and parted way, leaving to their respectable rooms.
Jake had a genuine smile as he strolled down the hall. He couldn't help but get to like Chance. He was interesting to talk to and could keep up, showing he was more intelligent then Jake gave him credit for. He was going to go to bed, but found he couldn't sleep. With no luck, he went to get some warm milk. He went to the kitchen and saw Mrs. Abby and Feral, making sure everything was cleaned up. When they saw Jake, they were surprised.
"Dear, I thought you'd be in bed by now?"
"I couldn't sleep. So I thought I'd get some milk. Sorry, if I'm troubling you."
"It's no trouble at all. Besides, it's good to see you feel more comfortable around here. Why don't you go sit by the fire and I'll bring it out to you."
"Oh, but-"
"You should do as she says," said Feral, gesturing for Jake to follow him.
Jake did as he was told and made his way out to the fireplace, taking a seat on the soft cushioned chair. Mrs. Abby brought out a cup for Jake, he sipped it and watched as the snow fell outside. He leaned back in the chair and Al was sitting in his lap, sleeping soundly.
"I can't get over why you all care for him? You're as much prisoners as I am. He's cursed you all, somehow."
"We knew Chance since before he was born. You see when Chance was seven, his mother died and he was left with only his cruel father. While this happened, we did nothing. To speak out would earn a slap to the face."
"If you wish to learn more about Chance's past. I'm afraid you will have to ask him about it yourself. It would be out of our place to tell you more." said Feral.
Jake nodded to this and cast his eyes to the fire, seeing it dance and move. He slowly felt his eyes feel heavy and went to sleep.
In the bed chamber, Chance moaned and turned about in his sleep. He often found his dreams to be haunting and scary. But every now and then a good dream would appear. In his dream Chance saw his mother standing on a arched bridge that crossed their small pond. She stood and watched as the water moved, seeing a mother duck with her young.
A small blond kitten tried to look over, but was too small to get up. His mother, with a smile leaned down and picked up the five year old Chance, allowing him to get better look. They stared down and watched the ducks swim about, chancing pointing and laughing. They stroll the ground and Chance listened as his mother read aloud to him, making him smile.
Everything seemed good and Chance noticed his mother was a ways behind him. He reached out for her to join him in the court yard, on the beautiful sunny day. Suddenly a loud cracking sound was heard and the ground crumbled, felling and separating Chance from his mother on a large piece of ground fell away. Chance dove and tried to hold her, keeping her from falling into the darkness. He tried to hold on, tried to keep her by his side. He wasn't strong enough and felt her slipping through his paws. With a yell, he watched as she fell, everything went black.
Chance awoke and lay in his bed, sweat dripping from his brow. He wiped it away and looked over to see the picture of his father and mother, seeing the beautiful female smiling and looking so happy. It was still dark out, so he knew it wasn't morning yet. He shut his eyes and recalled a tune she would sing to him, hearing her voice echo through his ears. Chance lay his head back down and closed his eyes, feeling a tear roll down his cheek. As he lay there and sang the soft tune, he heard music coming from down stairs. The song brought hope, yet pain to his soul.
Chance's mother/Chance:
"Where is the hope, that everyone speaks of,
It lies deep in your own heart, you just have to find it,"
Hackle played the violin and Johnny played to the soft lullaby, standing close to an opened window. Johnny knew his wife could hear him from up stairs, so he sang his heart out to her, wanting to feel and love her like he did before the spell.
Johnny:
"Will I ever again,
Touch the sweet softness of your face,"
Felina and Callie:
"Shall this couple remain,
Without a promising furture,"
Callie and Felina danced on the floor, missing what being alive felt like. They smiled and held each other close, moving smoothly across the floor, sweeping every so slightly. Mrs. Abby was in the kitchen, watching he son sleep. With a smile she kissed him on the head, seeing him smile.
Mrs. Abby:
"Oh, where is the hope,
It's always on my mind,
Brightening my day, like the sun,"
Ann:
"This, deep pain,
It aches don't go away,
It's there apart of my life,
Breaking my heart keeping me from your side,"
Ann heard the song and joined in, hoping her husband could hear her, knowing it was hard for them to be apart. She weaved back and forth, lifting her arms. Jake sang and walked out, seeing the objects dance to the music.
Jake (Ann):
"How ever did this happen?
Hope thrive among the pain,
I thought this was such a dark place,
Now I think I see the light,
(Where is the hope)
I want to help these beings,
(Where has it gone)
That's my new goal,
Somehow I'll break the curse,
I'm not sure how, but I will,"
Chance:
"The memory, the pain of loosing you,
Don't go, please stay with me forever, mother,
Why did you have to die?"
All:
"Where is hope, it's inside of us,
Like a sad soul,
It waits to come out and be loved, again."
In Chance's bed room, Jake sat by him and changed the band aids. Chance let a small grin cross his face as he watched Jake work. They sat close and Chance slowly let his tail curl around Jake's body. Jake wasn't upset and scooted closer to Chance, placing his paws on Chance's larger ones. The group were glad to see the two getting along.
In the tavern late one evening, sat Turmoil, the Lieutenant and a mysterious cloaked figure. The figure looked at the two, and scratched his chin, wondering what the Captain wanted.
"I don't leave the asylum, but your friend said it would be worth it."
He fixed his long red cloak, his face was was slender along with his build. Turmoil tossed a bag of coins on the table, where they jingled. He smirked and reached for the bag, chuckling as he scooted it to his side.
"Go on. You have my undivided attention, Miss Turmoil."
"Good, I need your help vith a plan of mine, Mr...?"
"Dark Kat."
"Dark Kat. I have my sights on making Jake my husband, but he needs a push in zee right directions. So to speak."
"In short, he told her to buzz off." laughed the Lieutenant, taking another sip from her mug.
Turmoil lifted a paw and raised it back. The Lieutenant duck, waiting to feel a blow to the head. Turmoil was ready to smack her when the Dark kat spoke up.
"So, what is it you want from me?" asked Dark kat, tapping a finger impatiently on the table.
Turmoil halted her attack and turned back to him, calming herself down.
"Yes, I'd like you to put Manx in zee asylum."
"Manx, what for? He's done nothing bizarre or crazy that I know of. He's a harmless old man."
"Let's cut to zee chase. Jake vould do anything to keep his old man from getting locked up. He vas here raving about some mutant in a castle. There's no castle around her, he's obviously crazy."
"Yup, Jake'd even agree to marry her for it."
The Lieutenant hiccuped before she passed out, falling to the floor and starting to snooze away.
"I see, you wish for me to hold Manx captive, until Jake agrees to marry you?"
"Yes, and don't let him out until we're officially united in marriage. Can I trust you to help me? zere will be another few bags of gold in your future if you agree."
She reached over, holding her paw out to him. He glanced from her paw to her face, liking how wicked she was.
"That is simply evil, I love it. Deal, Miss Turmoil. Or should I say Mrs. Clawson." joked Dark kat, taking and shaking her paw.
They laughed and continued to go over what to do next.