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Virtually Real Chapter 76: Truffle, Trouble, and Relics.

I opened my eyes. Another morning and I was still alive. I hadn't really taken in the surroundings last night, but now? I was tied to the main tree. The platform I was on wrapped around it. Above there were enough limbs to shield us from the sky. Though I hadn't seen anything that might be a threat the cover suggested it existed.

I untied myself, found where the ladder went over the side, and started down. Climbing up in the dark had been easier.

"About time you woke up." Saber thought at me.

Once on the ground I stretched. Jordan was next to a fire cooking something with Truffle watching closely. Louis was also climbing down from his platform.

"So everyone else is still asleep? I need to re-establish some discipline in the ranks."

"Let them sleep. The extra rest will help them believe last night was all just a bad dream." Jordan said.

"You knew about this place before we got here." Louis said looking at Jordan.

"Of course I did. We may be two days from my village but we are in its hunting area. Admittedly, at least when I was still a hunter, we rarely came this far out."

"What about Bike?"

"He's the Chief's son. He is a hunter, but before we were taken in tribute he wasn't allowed more than one day's travel from the village because of his importance. He wouldn't have known this camp was here."

"I hope you don't get offended but why are you dragging my team along with you?"

Jordan laughed. "Because unlike all the other's we've come across you're the only soldiers who see it as your duty to get us back to the capital rather than using us as a way to progress your own interests. Plus Prowl seems to trust you."

"You seem to put a lot of faith in him. According to our information you only trusted that cat."

"I'm right here you know." I pointed out

"Honestly? Prowl, is the only person I've ever met that would go to so much trouble just to protect me. He makes me mad at times because he doesn't concern himself with his own safety focusing only on me."

"Seriously, I'm right here. My mission is to protect Jordan. As for my life I'm not that important."

"You're important. Very important. Rider told me about how brave you are to help me be less scared. You are amazing." Truffle said, before hissing, running over to a tree and climbing back up to the platform.

"Wow, I thought the little guy couldn't speak." Louis said, in surprise.

"Seems he's just incredibly shy, but will speak his mind if riled. At least until he realizes everyone is listening to him." Jordan replied

There was a soft hiss and we glanced up just in time to see his nose pull back from the edge.

"So any other reason you're keeping us with you?" Louis asked.

"Because every time you go off on your own you get attacked by a killer pack, taken hostage and used as a bargaining marker, or assaulted and nearly fed to monster wolves. If anything you need more protection than Jordan." I replied.

Jordan started laughing. "You can't deny he's right about that, Captain."

"Honestly, I don't know. I just feel you three have earned our trust, for now. Oh and you don’t seem to mind traveling with us." I reasoned.

"I guess that's good enough. Now do either of you want to explain last night in a way that I can understand it?"

"I don't think so. Not that I'm saying that you couldn't understand. I'm just not certain I understand it." I explained.

"Fine, we'll leave it at that for now. One last thing, the . . . kid. You've got to know, especially after those wolves, those things can't be trusted."

"Really?" I asked glancing up. I could see Truffle's nose at the edge of the platform so I knew he was listening. "You haven't had a problem with him so far."

"He's only been with us part of a night and he's still a kid."

"What if I'm like the kid and my relics are just hiding my true appearance?" Rider asked.

"We'd know." Louis insisted.

Jordan coughed as he held back a laugh.

"And how would you know?" I asked.

"It's like any deviants you just do." He said, confidently.

I shook my head.

"Captain, you are stupid. That or your senses aren't as good as you think. You've been traveling with one this whole time and didn't even know it."

"Bike! Jordan gave me permission to kill you if you put any of us in danger." I snarled.

"Yeah, but you won't kill unless you have to. I'm not threatening anyone's life. Rider can take care of himself."

Bike screamed and clutched his ear.

"Maybe now that you have a little less flesh weighing down your empty head you'll think and listen. I don't have to kill in order to punish you." I growled, holstering my blaster.

"Prowl! You go too far. Yes, Bike is irritating but that is no reason to maim him!" Jordan yelled.

I rolled my eyes. "I didn't shoot him. I was careful. His hair is singed and his ear might be a bit red but there is no lasting damage. However that is the last warning he is going to get."

"Rider isn't an anthro. I've sat watch with him I would know." Louis stated.

"Really?" Rider asked placing his massive furry hand on the Captain's shoulder. "Anthros and humans are basically the same otherwise we couldn't have kids together. Like humans there are good ones and bad ones it's just that we are so rare you only hear about the bad ones. Most of us go into hiding or live at the very edges of territories. After all we don't want to be turned into victims of the spectacles. The only reason I'm here is because Prowl saved me when it would have been just as easy to let me die. I owe him for that. However, he doesn't need my protection so I'm trying to pay him back by helping others."

"You- You're a . . ." Louis couldn't seem to form a coherent thought.

"All that talking and he wasn't even able to comprehend. Sorry Rider, but maybe you'll have to try again, when you have the mask on." Jordan laughed.

"I wish I was an anthro. Maybe then I'd be taller and I wouldn't get picked on." Vine said, as he reached the ground.

"Are you kidding? You'd probably have been a mouse anthro and ended up smaller." Bark laughed. "Oh and Captain, let's not make the kid any more scared of us. He's kind of cute."

"I'm not scared. I brave opossum. One day I be free and I go find what happen to my family."

"You can come down. No one here will hurt you, you have my word. Plus it's time for breakfast." Jordan said.

"Not hungry."

"Truffle, you must be the bravest possum I know. I mean, giving up Jordan's wonderful cooking, before a long day of walking just so a bunch of humans can over eat." I teased.

"Is it good food?"

"It's white grain that's been cooked until soft. I also added fresh berries I found earlier and some diced apple. It's not much, but it is warm and-"

"Apple?" Truffle interrupted, peaking around the trunk of the tree. "I like apple, but I not allowed to have in long time."

"Prowl, this still seems strange talking to you like this, the apple trees are maybe fifty meters into the forest. Most of the lower fruit has been picked off, but considering his climbing skills . . ." Jordan thought.

"How many?" I asked.

"What? I just meant, he seems to trust you, so you could take him to choose the ones he wanted."

"That's fine, but if he picks more we can all have apples as we walk. It will improve opinions of him and his skills. Plus he'll feel that he has contributed in a meaningful way. It also means we won't have to stop to eat."

"That's rather smart. No more saying or thinking you're stupid, not being that wise."

I glared at Jordan. He had me and he knew it. "Hey Truffle, how about we go find the apple tree? That way you can climb up and find the bestest apple just for you."

"Really? I no get into trouble?"

"The tree is that way." Jordan pointed into the woods. "It's close enough you should be able to yell for help if you get into trouble."

"Okay. Enjoy your breakfast, just leave me a little for when I get back." I grabbed a sack from my bag for the apples and we set off.

***

"Papa, what if wolf creatures attack us?" Truffle asked.

"They won't, and I'm not your papa."

"But, you care for Truffle. You no treat like others do. You treat like family treated me. So you are Papa. Are you sure monsters won't attack? Master said they always out here and they get me if try to run."

"They aren't here anymore. The wolf god sent them far away, to another world, where they can be free."

"Wolf god? Is he gonna get us?"

"No, he loves kids." My mind stalled again. How did I know that? Did I know the god long ago?

"To eat?" Truffle asked in a panic.

"No, he is a guardian of children, especially anthro children. When he was young the gods took him in but they never trusted him and eventually they betrayed him. So he is very careful about who he trusts. However most children see him as big fluffy protector. They trust him so he likes being around children." I had no idea if any of what I was saying was true, but it seemed to calm Truffle.

"He was one howling and that scared me."

"Were you cold, well colder than normal, during the howling?"

"I . . . no, actually I felt a little hot. Like I'd been wrapped in blankets."

"That's how you know you have nothing to fear from the wolf god. His powers seem to be wind and cold. Since you were warm it means he was protecting you from his powers."

"Apples! There's so many of them!" Truffle yelled, running over and climbing up the first tree.

"Pick the best ones for yourself but also choose three or four good ones for each of the other members in the group. If you do that and give them as gifts I'm sure everyone will be happy with you. Well maybe not Bike, but he's always grumpy, and Saber doesn’t eat fruit so just pick some for the humans and Rider." I heard loud crunching and I hoped he'd listened to me.

I waited until he climbed down.

"I . . . I might have eated too many."

"Do you feel sick?" I asked.

"No, it's just . . . I was only able to find four good looking ones as gifts. That not enough. I shouldn't have been so greedy."

"Put the four apples in this sack. That's Jordan taken care of. Now I guess you didn't notice there are a few trees to search."

"I can have more?" He asked, in excitement.

"Let's collect for gifts first, then you can decide."

He smiled and scrambled up the next tree. It didn't take long to fill the sack with four apples for everyone. He obviously needed some math lessons since he didn't realize I'd had him get four extra for himself.

"Papa, are those apples poison?" He asked pointing at another tree.

"Huh?" I asked looking up.

"They are yellow instead of red."

"No, they are just a different kind. I like the yellow ones when . . ." I trailed off; not because I didn't know what to say but because what I was going to say didn't make sense. What did it mean that I liked them when they ripened on the tree? Where else would they ripen? I shook my head. "If you find a really good looking one I'll eat it to prove-". I didn't get to finish before he was holding a large golden apple in front of me.

"A gift for Papa, because he is bestest."

I rolled my eyes but didn't argue. I took it and bit into it. It was sweeter and softer than the red ones. I sat down as tears were running down my cheeks again. It was another flashback.

I was in my grandparent’s back yard I was sitting under the apple tree. It was a special spot. With the apples weighing down the branches it created a hidden fort away from everything. But then it was a special tree one side had yellow apples and the other had red ones. The yellow ones always ripened first and I was happy.

"Papa! I got Rider and Jordan!"

"Prowl, is it another bad memory?" Jordan asked.

"It's all my fault! He told me the yellow ones were okay." Truffle bawled.

"Truffle, it's okay. The apple is fine. This happens sometimes. Prowl has lost his memories and when something triggers one he gets like this."

"Is there anything I do to help? I no want Papa to be sick."

"All of you, I'm fine. The apple triggered a good memory. One of a safe place, my grandparents, and an apple tree they had. Thank you Truffle, for the apple and the return of a happy memory."

"But you were crying." He sniffled.

"Sometimes being really happy make a person cry." Rider explained. "Now we should get back before Bike steals Prowl’s breakfast."

I stood up and patted Truffle's head. "You were really brave going to get Rider and Jordan all by yourself."

Truffle grinned a made a squeaking noise obviously unable to speak.

"It was a bit foolish though. Leaving you alone in that state for a predator to make a meal."

"Saber, we both know you keep a close eye on me whenever I'm out of Jordan's sight." It seemed he decided to block me again. Maybe he wasn't acting on Jordan's orders? I'd have to think about what that might mean.

***

Fortunately Bike hadn't eaten my portion of breakfast. Truffle had a few bites, shyly told Jordan it was good, but had to apologize since he'd filled up on apples. He then, with encouragement passed out four apples to everyone.

Jordan pointed out they would be a good source of energy as we walked. Today our journey was to another camp just like this one and it would take most of the day.

As everyone packed up I had Truffle come over next to the fire pit and lay down. He was confused but obeyed. Then I had Rider come over and hold him still. Before they could ask I used my blaster to melt the chain link closest to Truffle's collar. I then tied a length of rope to the collar loop making it lighter and easier for Truffle to get around.

He clung to Rider as they went to finish packing and I hoped I hadn't cared him too much. I balled the chain up and added it to my pack. I'm not sure why but something told me it was valuable.

Once packed we set off. After a few hours Truffle was running around almost making the walk seem like a game. I was glad he was getting to be a kid.

As nightfall approached and we neared the next camp we found it was already occupied.

"Prowl, I want you Rider and Truffle to wait back here. I'm not sure how they'll react to mercenaries. I'll introduce the soldiers first. I know they don't like then but they will be tolerated. After that I'll call you three in. Just make sure Rider knows to keep that disguise on. And you need to keep your relic weapons hidden." Jordan thought to me.

"Rider, can you and Truffle help me with something for a moment?" I asked. With their focus on me Jordan led the rest forward. "Jordan wants us to wait back here until he calls for us. Since these are his people I figured it is best to do as he says. Rider keep your disguise active at all times. Truffle, Rider is going to need to keep ahold of your leash rope. It’s unlikely they've ever seen an anthro before. This is one time your shyness is a good thing. Stay close to Rider at all times."

"Prowl-Ar, what if there aren't enough platforms for everyone?" Rider asked, looking toward the group around the fire.

"We've camped on the ground before we can do so again. Though I'll insist that Jordan and Truffle share a platform. I want both of them out of harm’s way."

"Agreed. Look, Jordan is waving us forward." Rider pointed out.

As we got closer the young men didn't look happy to see us.

"Why are you traveling with outsiders?" A teen snapped.

Jordan sighed. "I told you, they follow my lead. It doesn't matter that they're outsiders."

"It matters a great deal. You know the village doesn't allow outsiders." Bike snapped. It seemed he felt extra bold now that he had a group of children protecting him.

"You are just as much an outsider until the chief confirms you're her son."

"Are you even old enough to be a hunter?" Bike snarled.

"I've been a hunter since the last tribute. I've come of age this season."

"Of course, you would have had to take our place when we were taken." Jordan said sadly. Still, you should have been informed that our village is exempt from the tribute."

"We were informed, but that is just until there are more among us that are tribute age or the king changes his mind again."

"No, I have it in writing that our village is free from the tribute. An identical copy was sent to the village chief."

"Jordan, may I see the document?" Vine asked.

"Why?"

"As a royal messenger I can verify that it is real. Is that enough proof for you?" Vine asked.

The leader of the hunters nodded. "If a royal messenger declares it real then we have no choice but to believe it."

Jordan opened a part of his pack, which I'd missed when I helped with packing it, and went through several pages before handing one to Vine.

Vine quickly read it. "It's true, your village is free from tribute. This also grants Jordan and Bike their freedom and someone named Swan conditional freedom where she must remain a servant in the castle until she repays her debt or Jordan finishes his assigned task to free her. Captain, this document, it means our orders are in violation to a royal proclamation." Vine carefully returned the hide to Jordan.

"Jordan, what exactly was your assigned task?" Louis asked.

"All I had to do was find a way to open a vault in a relic structure."

"The Vault. Of course. You know the King has been sending people to try and open that thing since he first found it? It can't be opened."

"It can if you have the right key and I discovered the key."

"When we first met you said something about traveling into the desert to get a key and that you had sent word to the king. Sir, that would be about the time we received our orders. Do you think . . ."

"That the message was intercepted and that we were sent to find the key before Jordan could open the vault for the king?"

"I don't know what all of you are talking about and it doesn't change the fact you're all outsiders." The lead hunter insisted.

"Heron! You were the kid that followed Swan everywhere. I remember you. You'd come over to my father's house, when no one was looking and you knew my mother had been making sweets."

"I don't know what you're talking about."

Several of the hunters laughed. "I believe it. You still have a sweet tooth. And now that I think about it I don't know how any of us could forget the . . . uh tall hunter with a tamed saber."

"Papa, why is everyone yelling so much?" Truffle asked.

Everyone went silent as they stared at Truffle. He hissed and hid behind Rider again.

"What was that?" One hunter asked, lifting his bow.

I could see an evil smirk on Bike's face. I glared at him and put my hand on my revolver. Even though my blaster was put away the revolver looked enough like a musket I figured I could get away with it. If he didn't read the threat he'd be dead.

"He is an anthro. I've seen a couple in the arena. They are very rare and they are human, except they look like animals. I've even known one that looks like Saber. The most important thing you need to know is that Truffle is a child and he is completely harmless. However he is very useful for climbing trees, for scouting, and picking fruit. If that isn't enough he is completely under Prowl or Rider's control just as Saber is under mine." Jordan explained.

"Really Brother? We're going to play that game?" Saber asked.

"Hush you wild beast. They don't need to know the only thing protecting them is the fact you think humans taste bad." Jordan thought back.

"All we're asking is that Truffle, because he is a child, and Jordan share one of the platforms." I interrupted.

"No, there is only one extra platform and it will go to Bike, in case he is the chief's son, and the Royal Messenger. The animal stays on the ground."

I moved faster than even I thought was possible pulling my revolver and shoving it up under the hunter's chin. "I'm sure you know what a musket can do at this close range. Call Truffle an animal again, I dare you." I felt a tug on my shirt.

"Papa, don't yell, please? I feel safer on ground with you and Rider."

I glared at the hunter and then whispered "Let it be known that if I hear anyone, anyone at all, call him anything other than Truffle or hurt him in any way they will die." I turned, holstered my gun, and picked Truffle up. Only to spin around at the sound of flesh hitting flesh.

"I admit, it took us a little while to get used to Truffle, but if anything happens to him because he isn't safe tonight, I or one of my men will put you in chains and make sure you go into the arena, against the most horrible monster that can be found." Captain Louis closed his eyes. "No, even that is too good. I'm a devout follower of the king's religion so what I am about to do and say may condemn me to the fiery pits. If through your actions Truffle is harmed tonight, may the god of wolves curse you with a fate worse than death."

All of us stood in silence and shock as an icy wind seemed to blow through the clearing.

"It seems he was listening. We're going to set up camp but if you value your lives I'd really suggest you have your hunters keep watch." Rider snarled.

Bike seemed to gag a bit. "Prowl, you and Truffle take the platform. I'll share with one of the hunters."

"I said no." The hunter leader yelled.

"Kid, whether you believe or not I know that . . . wind, took out all the soldiers and an army of . . . trained creatures in a matter of minutes. Right now, I'd rather be eaten protecting the kid than have to face the thing the Captain just called down upon us. Set guards and be thankful the curse is only for a single night." Bike said, angrily.

I slowly climbed the rope ladder. This was not what I wanted. I was supposed to protect Jordan. This was all Bike's fault. I knew he chose me because I was the safest on the ground.

"Papa? Why are you upset? Is it something Truffle did?"

"No, It's just my job is to protect Jordan. That's why I wanted you and him safe up here."

"We should sleep. Momma say that little possums should sleep when they worried. That way they not worried for as long."

"Your Momma was smart."

"Is smart. She in safe place with brother and sisters. They escape but Truffle to scared. He played dead and was captured." He cuddled up against me holding tight. "I no wanna think about it right now. Papa need sleep."

I carefully tied the safety line and Truffle quickly fell asleep, but I found myself laying there just staring at the starless space and wondering why something that my mind said should be disturbing made me feel safe.

***

"Prowl, can we talk? Like this I mean. There's no need for you to get up yet." Jordan asked waking me.

It wasn't quite dawn yet but the stars were mostly faded out already. "Yeah, what's wrong?"

"Nothing's wrong, not really anyway. I'm just wondering what is going on with Truffle. When I started preparing breakfast he climbed down here and started watching me and asking questions."

"What sort of questions?"

"Mostly about cooking and why I do things in a certain way. That isn't what I'm wondering though. I'm confused why he keeps calling me Papa Jordan. I get why he calls both you and Rider Papa, but not why he's suddenly started calling me that."

"I think he's lonely and is afraid that we are going to leave him or sell him. Still, he wants and needs to trust us and by calling all of us his Papa he's hoping at least one of us will never leave him. I was hoping, as his rescuer he'd bond more with Rider."

"You don't see it do you?"

"See what?" I asked in confusion.

"It's you. You, I don't know how to put it, but you have this ability or maybe presence that makes people like you."

I blocked. I blocked hard and curled into a ball. No one liked me. I knew that with everything I was. Like it was the only thing I knew. And suddenly I was in darkness. Cold empty darkness.

"You're not alone."

"Am I dead? Are you death come to end my suffering?"

"No, you are not dead. You're just blocking out the world right now. As much as I'd really not like to say it, in this moment, I am death. But I'm not here to do anything to you. I'm just here to tell you that not everything is as it seems. You are loved and you do attract people to you. Mostly those who are lost or in need. People that are forgotten or believe, like you, they are unloved and unwanted. It is not an easy path you are on and I can't tell you that you will always succeed or always be happy. What is important is you are, and will, always be loved whether you know or believe it. Now it is time to stop blocking out everything. You can trust Jordan and Rider. They are as devoted to protecting you as you are to protecting them. Now wake up."

I was shivering. I was wrapped in blankets next to the fire but I was still shivering.

"What happened?" I asked.

"I was hoping you could tell me." Jordan said. "Your mind went blank, no more like dark and cold. Every time I tried to connect with you I could only see . . . Forgive me for saying this, but it was death. A skeleton in a black hooded cloak with a giant scythe." He continued mentally.

"He said he was death, though I saw him as a black fox with white eyes. It's strange he seemed to be there to make me feel better." I mentally answered.

"That is the powerful guardian I told you about. The one I couldn't name. I couldn't tell you because I was afraid." Saber said, entering the mental conversation.

"Papa, are you okay? Papa Jordan, why isn't Papa talking? It's all Truffles fault. I shouldn't have left him alone."

"No Truffle, this isn't your fault. I told you Papa Prowl lost his memories now when a bad one comes back he gets like this. All we can do is remind him we're here for him and wait until he is ready to speak again."

"Like at the apple tree, but Truffle left him then too."

"Truffs, you did the right thing in getting Papa Jordan. I'll be fine." I glanced at Jordan, "It's just that this time the memory returned while I was asleep so it is difficult to understand if it was real or just a nightmare."

"I don't like nightmares. They always be screaming, or Truffle being left behind. It Truffle fault he was captured. He was too frightened to swim across river with rest of family and when soldiers come he played dead. But they know him alive so they take him."

"Truffle, you are very brave." Jordan said.

"No, Truffle just scared. Scared of everything."

"You were captured, but if you hadn't been the soldiers would have kept hunting your family and everyone would have been captured. So you actually saved your family." Captain Louis said, as he joined us. "So Jordan what is for breakfast?"

Jordan looked down at his cooking. "I found some eggs, but not enough for everyone, so I mixed them with water and soaked some hard bread in it then I ..." He glanced at me. "I used some of the oil Prowl bought for me and fried them. I considered trying some of the other powders but there isn't enough bread and egg to experiment with. I really wish I'd had some milk, but that is rare even in the villages."

"It sounds delicious." I said.

"How would you know?" He asked me mentally.

I only replied by blushing.

***

We traveled in silence once more. The hunters seemed depressed and slow. When we stopped for a short break I asked Jordan what was going on.

They've been out for five days and are returning without meat. Most of the smaller game has been picked off and they can't intrude on other village's territories."

I did a quick scan. “There are lots of larger animals."

"True, but most of them require a lot more hunters and are often too difficult to kill with just arrows and spears." Jordan answered.

"What about spear throwers and muskets?"

"Spear throwers?" He asked.

"Yes, you don't use them?"

"I don't know what you're talking about."

"It's in my memories that they were first created here. It is a rod that acts like an extension of the arm that gives the spear more power and range. When we reach you village, if allowed, I'll show your hunt master how to craft it along with the special spear heads needed for large prey."

"I don't know."

"It's not like I'm going to show him how to make a spear launcher." I switched to mental communication.

"Spear launcher?" Jordan asked.

"Like a musket but it fires metal spears."

"No. That would cause real trouble."

"I figured as much considering your opinion on muskets. How dire is the situation? I mean the failed hunt?"

"I'm not sure, but considering they've been relying on children to do the hunting the last few years means it’s probably pretty bad."

"Ask them."

"I doubt they would tell me."

"Bike! Can you come here for a moment?" I yelled.

He took his time coming over to us. "What do you want?"

"You're the chief's son and a hunter, correct?"

"Did your brain really malfunction this time? That should all be obvious."

I sighed, I really hated what I was about to suggest. "Go find out how desperately your village needs a successful hunt."

"Why should I?"

"Self-interest, ego, and greed; need I continue? Just find out."

Bike looked at me suspiciously but went back over to the hunters. There was a lot of yelling back and forth. Enough that Truffle scurried over and tried to hide between Jordan and I only to let out a sneezing type bark and scramble back to Rider as Bike marched over.

"The situation is bad. I'm not going into what little details they would give me, but they weren't supposed to return until they had a fresh kill."

I acted as though I was thinking and mentally contacted Jordan. "How long until we reach the village?"

"At our current pace maybe three or four hours. I only had us stop to rest so that we weren't exhausted when we get there."

"How long for the hunters to get to the village and back with a team to butcher one or two of the really big beasts?"

"What are you planning?"

"People are more welcoming when well fed. I can easily take down two of the grazing beasts north of us with my rifle, but butchering and transporting that much meat would be impossible for just the few of us here before the smell drew in the really big carnivores."

"I told you, you can't be using-"

”Another reason to send the hunters back to the village as fast as possible. Then we stage the kills so that it isn't possible to know I'm the one that actually killed them."

"That's what you meant. You're going to let Bike take the credit."

"Yes, because I think we need to leave him at the village when we move on. He may be useful, but he can't be trusted."

"Okay. I don't like it, but okay."

I sighed. "I have an idea but it relies heavily on you Bike."

"I don't like it already." He replied.

"You know the power of my weapons. I'd rather not have everyone know about it though. At the same time I feel guilty that, because we showed up and spoiled things your village might suffer. So here is my plan. You tell the hunters that you along with your companions are going to kill two of the giant creatures that are grazing just north of our current location. But with so much meat they need to get to the village as fast as possible and assemble a team to butcher and move all that meat before the larger scavengers come to steal it from you."

Bike looked conflicted.

"You know I can take them down, but to hide that fact we’ll have to stage it as though it took all of us. Think about it you'd be considered a hero."

Bike turned and marched over to the hunters. Within minutes they were up and running, presumably toward the village.

"What is going on?" Captain Louis asked.

"You're going to get a demonstration of how I took down a rex."

***

I hadn't been prepared for the size of the creatures. My armor listed them as Indricothere and gave a graphic but a graphic isn't the same as seeing them in person. They looked like someone had combined a rhino and a giraffe. Whatever those two animals were. They had armor like hide and a very long neck. They were also bigger than a Rex.

There were four of them a sub-adult, a female and two males. I guessed the female must be in season since the two males were slamming their necks together with incredible force. I set up my position. Jordan directed Rider and Truffle into the tree line to a berry patch he remembered. We all agreed Truffle didn't need to see the killing or the butchering.

I made sure everyone stayed back. I wanted to let the fight play out then I'd take down the loser. Once the more powerful male had mated I'd take him as well. Unfortunately the female would have to find another suitor. At the very edge of my scanning range two massive carts had appeared. Both pulled by multiple animals. Still too far out to know what kind though.

I lined up my shot using my armor to keep a perfect aim on the heart. I fired and the first one went down. The winning male bellowed and I fired a second shot dropping him as well. The female stood seemingly in shock.

"Saber, scare that small one into running. Just scare and then get back. I don't want you injured."

"Understood." Saber shot out of the grass and grabbed the hind quarters of the calf with his claws. The calf screamed and started to run. Saber released him and took off toward the tree line as the female started to chase him. I was holding off shooting her, but if she caught up with Saber. There was an explosion. The female turned and stampeded after her calf.

I did a quick scan and Captain Louis was standing over the first body reloading his musket.

"Jordan and Bike, get out there and shove your spears into the wound made by my shots." I ordered. "Saber-"

"Already on it." He thought as he sank his saber teeth into the neck of the first one. There was a second explosion and I noticed Bark next to the second.

I felt like vomiting as Jordan sliced "his" kill open and started removing the viscera. I didn't know what was wrong with me. I knew this was part of the process. So why was I reacting this way. I pushed the feelings and thoughts away. I needed to get my Rifle broken down and packed away.

"When you finish go get Rider and head toward the village. We can protect the kill until the butchering team arrives. And don't worry I'm giving the hearts to Saber for his part in the hunt. So there will be no evidence of your part." Jordan told me.

I scanned the wagons again. They were being pulled by teams of oxen and there was a third wagon just entering range. "The first two wagons will arrive in fifteen minutes. They are traveling faster than I expected."

"With a prize like this I'm not surprised. Get going. We'll try to catch up. If you make it inside go directly to my home. Otherwise we'll meet you at the gate."

"I don't-" I suddenly received a series of images, mostly of landmarks to guide me to the village and then to Jordan's house.

"Sorry, I hope that wasn't as exhausting for you as it was for me."

"A little but nothing like recovering memories. I think we’ll be able to find the way. Stay safe, I don't want to leave you unprotected, but-".

"I'll be fine. Saber and I used to roam this area all the time and I was a kid then. I'm more worried about you. I mean, you're going to be on your own with Rider and Truffle with only a sort of idea where you're heading." Jordan quickly pointed out.

"I'm sure we'll all be safe. See you at the village."

I went looking for our two anthros but thinking only one thing. Even though he tried to cover it he was worried about the three of us because he cared about us.

***

When I found Rider and Truffle I realized I'd made a mistake.

"Look Papa! Papa Rider and I found a box."

It was an old plastic crate and probably brittle as possible but they'd filled it with a multitude of berries. That wasn't the problem.

"We figured if we weren't involved with the hunt we should at least collect something." Rider added.

I closed my eyes and shook my head. "Rider, take a good look at Truffle. I mean a good look and think about him as a creature you've never seen before and you don't know he's only been eating berries."

"Oh. This isn't good." Rider said, apologetically.

"Papas, what's wrong with Truffle? I feel fine and I not hungry."

"Truffle, I know you keep yourself very clean. But right now you are so covered in berry juice it looks like you . . ."

"You probably look like me." Rider said, as he turned off the mask.

Truffle was messier and more covered in the red juice, but Rider's saber teeth and carnivore look was the more frightening. Truffle just stared.

"Is that what Papa Rider actually looks like?"

"Except for the berry juice, yeah." I said. I expected him to be scared but instead He ran over and hugged Rider.

"I like Papa better like this."

"You're not afraid?" Rider asked.

"No, Papa have fur like me so he much more huggable."

There was a rumble of thunder and Truffle let out an "eep"

"That's not good. We need to get moving. Jordan and the rest will meet us at the village."

"Rain isn't going to be good for the butchering and transport." Rider mumbled. "Give me a moment to retrieve our packs and we can get moving."

"Packs?"

"I didn't think it fair if Truffle didn't help carry." Truffle said.

"Aren't you the best boy?"

Truffle grinned at the praise as I checked the crate. Its handles would be useless, but if I lifted it from the bottom edges and carried it like that maybe it would hold together. I carefully picked it up, with Truffle doing his best to help.

"Rider?"

"Just give me a moment. I need to finish adjusting the weight."

We waited what felt like five minutes though my headpiece said it was only two.

"Okay. Truffle here is your pack and hold this as well for a minute."

I didn't see what he gave Truffle.

"Okay, Prowl-Ar. Since I made you wait I'll carry the berries."

I passed the crate to Rider in confusion. "I could have carried it. It's not that heavy."

"I know, but you needed your hands free."

I narrowed my eyes even thought I knew he couldn't see it. "Why?"

"To help Truffle clean off the berry juice."

I bit my lip to keep from swearing in front of Truffle. "I will get even you know."

"We'll see."

"Papa? Are you and Papa Rider fighting?" Truffle asked, holding up a skin of water and a rag. I took them and soaked the rag really well.

"I want you to wash off the berry juice while we walk. Make sure to wash extra good around your mouth."

"I no-".

"I don't want the humans in the village to yell at you."

Truffle sighed and started rubbing the rag around is muzzle.

We walked for close to half an hour. The clouds were building but it hadn't rained yet.

"Papa, I think I'm done."

"You still need to work on your neck and chest. I really don't know how you got that much juice in your fur."

"I was really hungry."

I laughed. "Give me the rag and I'll rinse it." I rinsed and rung it out twice before giving it back to him to continue.

I sort of lost track of time as we trudged forward.

"Papa, am I clean enough? There are people coming toward us."

I glanced at Truffle. He was still a little pink but otherwise presentable. "Sorry, I should have said something sooner."

"It's okay. I just don't want to be yelled at."

I nodded and checked my scanner. The people were in a smaller trailer than the others had been and were traveling much faster. They passed by us without a glance. In the cart were, what I guessed to be tarps. Likely to cover the meat if it started to rain. My scan also showed me that we were only half an hour, on foot, from the entrance to the village and the first cart was about the same distance behind us.

I thought they would catch up but Jordan was right the carts did move a slower than walking.

Unfortunately the guards weren't letting us in. I suppose it was understandable considering the number of people working on the kills. I told them we would just wait until Bike and Jordan arrived then gave them some berries, just to show there wasn't any hard feelings.

We sat on the ground a little way from the guards.

"I swear, if we're out here when the rain starts-" Rider complained.

"You'll sit here and wait for Jordan like the rest of us."

"Papa, Truffle doesn't like the rain. It always so angry."

"We’ll be fine here comes the first wagon."

As the wagon came near the guards just waved it past, Jordan and Bike were on the other side arguing and didn't notice us.

"Rider, it's going to be a tight fit but we need to cross with the wagon but keep out of sight. Carry the crate like you're just part of the group. Truffle, don't be scared. I'm going to pick you up and set you on the back of the wagon. Once there try to stay down and hidden."

"Why would I- eek". He squeaked as I picked him up in stealth mode. He seemed to glide through the air and land in the wagon.

We made it across the first two bridges but Rider, Bike, and the soldiers were stopped at the gates of the Palisade. I nudged Rider to keep moving and once we were through I pulled Truffle back out and set him on his feet "Rider, turn left. Truffle, stay close to Papa Rider.

We made our way down an ancient street. It was obvious many of the houses were unoccupied. I turned off my cloak and took the lead. "Jordan's house is just ahead."

There had been a gate once but it was long gone. I walked up and knocked. There was no answer. I tried the door but it was locked.

"Now what?" Rider asked. "Who knows how long it will be before Jordan can get here."

The door creaked open. I turned expecting to be yelled at by an old man or woman, but it was Truffle.

He grinned. "I was able to open one of the windows upstairs. Better to apologize for waiting inside, than being out in a storm."

"Okay, but you have to tell Papa Jordan you broke into his home." I replied.

"I didn't break anything. I just opened the window." Truffle pouted.

I looked around. Everything had a thick layer of dust. This wasn't good. Jordan had given me mental images of his parents. However it had been some time since anyone had been here. My chest hurt and I could feel my head starting too. “Rider, help me to a place to sit and then find something in case I vomit. I'm not sure but I think I'm about to have a memory spell again."

"Will Papa be all righty?"

"Yeah, I'm . . . just feeling . . . something. I'm not sure if it is a memory or not but I don't want to make a mess of Papa Jordan's home."

Rider helped me to a sofa and Truffle curled up against me. A few minutes later Rider brought in a bucket and set it on the floor.

"Listen, this is here if you need it. I'm going to ease you onto your side and then if you can I want you to try and get some sleep. Truffle is already unconscious and I'd move him but he's got a really good hold on you. I found a blanked to put over you two. Just get some sleep. I'm going to do a little cleaning and hopefully my moving about will warm this place up. At least until Jordan gets here."

I nodded and he got to work.

"In your house it was deserted. Ask someone local about where your parents moved. Tired."

"You're not completely awake. Sleep my protector. I'm going to be busy for a little while so I'll be sure to ask. Sleep well."

The pain and nausea seemed to go away after the mental communication.

"Before you sleep tell that cat to let me in." Saber insisted.

"Rider, let the cat in." I think I yelled it but I wasn't sure. I guess I must have since the last thing I remembered was something large close to me and Rider swearing about the bucket.

***

I think I woke once. The room was warm and I didn't notice Truffle's weight.

"Shh, just sleep. We're all safe and there is no need of a guard."

I'm sure it was Jordan's voice and it lulled me back to sleep.

When I woke, again, the room was cool but not cold. Jordan was asleep in an armchair across from the couch and Saber was resting between us. I thought it was kind of funny that Truffle was stretched across Jordan's lap and the arms of the chair. From the state of the blanket He must have woke up, came in and curled up with Jordan. The funny part was he must have thought he needed to spend at least part of the night with each of his papas.

I did a quick scan and there was no one anywhere near us and I was the only one awake. I considered getting up but after so many days and nights of needing to be alert, and not knowing when I might get the chance again, I rolled over and went back to sleep.

I woke the third time to loud banging presumably on the door.

"Good morning Elder, what can I do for you?” I heard Jordan ask.

"So it's true? You're harboring beasts and strangers in this place!"

I rolled my eyes and sat up. Truffle was back and had scrunched himself close to my side, under the blanket, trying to be as small as possible.

"Would you please keep your voice down?" Jordan asked calmly.

"You're lucky we gave you permission to stay. We did not give them permission."

"The only beast here is Saber, and as you know full well, where I go he goes. Rider and Prowl are my guards I employ them so you better believe they go where I go. If they didn't I wouldn't have hired them."

"Bike told us about the animals, other than your cat, and how the one you call Rider is disguising himself with a forbidden relic."

Rider laughed. "I used to be a relic hunter, but really now, I've never found a relic that worked let alone one that changes how a person looks. If I had isn't it more likely I'd make myself look stronger?"

"Bike said he's seen you as some sort of man saber thing." The Elder snapped.

Jordan laughed. "Did Bike also tell you he'd spent almost a week in an ancient winery? He probably told you that Prowl over there shoots lightning from his hands."

"From a musket, actually." The Elder scowled. “What about the animal child?"

"First off he isn't an animal. He's as human as any of us, he just looks different. And yes we do have a child with us. His name is Truffle and he is a slave I picked up. So technically he isn't considered a stranger but more like my property. Truffle can you show yourself, please?"

I shook my head. "All the yelling scared him too much."

"What does that have to do with anything? The Elder growled.

I sighed, "When scared Truffle goes into a state were his mind shuts down. Depending on how scared it can be for a few moments to possibly a day. Since he is a slave he's been yelled at a lot so your yelling has scared him into such a state."

"How did you get in? The gate guards said you must have snuck in with one of the wagons."

"I don't know about sneaking in. Jordan was arguing so we fell in behind him, as is our job, and then came here as we were directed." I explained.

"You directed them here?" The Elder asked.

"How else would they have known which house to come to, or how to get in without breaking a window?" Jordan asked.

"They're still unsanctioned outsiders and they have to go. Along with you since you're no longer wanted here."

"That is your vote. Had you stayed awake long enough you would have found that enough of the other village elders elected for me to stay. At least until all the meat is cut up and dried or smoked. Do you really want to lose seven extra sets of hands when there is so much work to do?"

"Seven?" The Elder asked in surprise looking around.

"Yes, seven. Are you forgetting about our royal army escort?"

The Elder threw up his hands. "More strangers! I told the Elders letting your father and you in was a mistake. Now look at what is happening!"

"Yes, let's look. For the first time since even before my generation was taken for tribute the village has enough meat to last through the winter. The young hunters now have the time they need to actually practice and improve their hunting skills without the pressure of going hungry. The village is free of the tribute. Also Prowl here knows a way to make our hunter's spears more powerful so that they can hunt larger prey. Maybe not as big as the long necks we were only able to bring down thanks to Prowl's tactics, saber's skills, and the soldier's weapons. Yes, Bike and I had to take the biggest risk but the hunt would have failed if any part of it had gone wrong."

"And what were they doing?" The Elder asked, pointing at Rider and me.

"I was making sure everything went according to plan so that no one got hurt." I said trying to remain calm.

"I took Truffle to hunt for berries so he would be out of the way and so that he wouldn't get scared." Rider said.

"Berries that should have been collected for the village." The Elder said.

"You mean that were collected. Everyone was busy last night with the meat, and those that weren't were busy interrogating me. If you want you can carry the crate Rider and Truffle collected back with you."

The Elder huffed and turned toward the door. "This isn't over. Not by a long ways. I'll send guards to collect the berries. All of you remain here."

"That's fine, we'll wait until summoned to help." Jordan said, before closing the door behind the Elder.

"So the village has a council of elders?" I asked.

"Yes, that was the Elder of village security. His stance has always been 'no outsiders' even though it isn't unusual for young hunters to find wives from outside the village. Anyway, enough about that for now. Wake Truffle so we can gave breakfast."

"Jordan, I wasn't lying. Depending on how scared of the elder he was he could be like this for some time. Right now he's in the same mental state I was for however long I was in that chamber you found me in."

"Okay, Maybe I'll go sort out some berries before the guards come to take them."

I nodded and started gently petting Truffle's head. I hoped he wouldn't be like this for too long.

***

I really didn't want to be here. Jordan and I were standing in a hall with three tables arranged in an open square formation. Four people sat at each table. The Council of Elders, I'd been informed. Security, Hunting, Animal Tamers, and Healing to the right side of us. Planting and Gathering, Food Preserving, Food Distribution, and Paper making was on the left. At the back was the High Elders in charge of Animal Resources, Plant Resources, Water Distribution, and Records.

"Why are the others not here?" The Security Elder demanded.

"Because the child in our group was so traumatized but your display earlier that he hasn't recovered yet. Therefore I left Rider to care for him. Saber is my animal companion and so is not required here. The soldiers, due to being in the King’s service, are free to enter any village." Jordan snapped at the Security Elder.

"This is a civilized meeting and you will conduct yourself in a proper manner." The Elder of Food Preservation chided.

"Prowl, please inform the Poison Elder that I will not speak to, or hear anything, she has to say."

"What?" I asked mentally.

"That is my former step-mother and after she told me it would have been better if I'd died as a child last night I have nothing to say to her." He replied in the same way.

I smiled coldly. "Elder-".

"I heard him."

I cleared my throat and tried again. "Elder-"

"I told you I heard him. Now stop wasting our time."

"Bitch, Jordan told me you thought things would be better if he was dead. My job is to protect him, with my life if necessary. To that end I've killed three rexes, a pack of killers, two royal commanders, a pack of wolf creatures, and a legion of trained troopers. Do you think I'll hesitate for even an instant to put any of you old puffed up imbeciles down if I feel that you are a threat to him?"

The council stared at me in shock.

"Prowl, I think you had best let me handle this." Jordan insisted.

"I'll stand down but I will not leave, even if you order it." I stated mentally before he could dismiss me.

He turned back to the High Elders "If you want us to leave that's fine. We will be leaving in a few days. I still have a mission to complete in order to rescue Swan. However, as Prowl has pointed out we've been through a lot so we need some time to rest."

The Hunter's Elder stood. "High Elders, as you know Swan is the Hunt Master's daughter and my granddaughter so of all off you I am likely the one that wants Jordan to leave as soon as possible. However, he has indicate that Prowl has knowledge of a way to improve our hunter's spears so that they can take down larger prey. I'd like to know more, for the good of the village, before they leave."

"The Security Elder has indicated that one of their party members seems to be a human with animal traits. Before arriving I discussed the matter with the Animal Taming Elder and we have agreed that in the interest of the village we should learn as much as we can about this individual.” The High Elder of Animal Resources stated.

"I will not allow you to harm Truffle. You may meet with him, but you must not raise your voices. And if he starts to get scared you will have to leave and return only if he agrees to speak with you some more." Jordan stated.

"You mentioned last night that your companion has valuable information about our water supply. Something about an untapped source? I would like to know more about that before you leave." The High Elder of Water Distribution mentioned.

"Prowl, Jordan has indicated that you are something of an expert on relics. In my capacity as the High Elder of Records, relics fall under my department. If possible I'd like you to look over the items that have been collected and inform me of their purpose."

"Elder, while I do have a great deal of knowledge locked in my mind it is just that locked. When Jordan rescued me it seems I'd been wandering in the Southern desert without water. When I woke I didn't remember anything. Since then my memories are slowly returning, but I have no control over them. Still we've discovered that identifying and interacting with relics seems to help me unlock those memories. So I am more than willing to look over your relics and identify what I can."

The High Elder nodded. "Anyone else want to say anything?"

"I just want to say again if not for Jordan and his group, we wouldn't have had enough food to make it through the winter." The Food Distribution Elder stated.

"Alright, last night we voted to allow Jordan to stay in the village. However some members chose to skip the vote." The High Elder of records glared at the Security Elder for a moment. "However we have been presented with the fact that Jordan isn't alone. Even though he did inform those of us he felt would benefit from his companion's knowledge. In light of this the Elder of Security has called for a revote. Those against Jordan and his companions staying in the village for a short time please stand."

The Elders of Security and Food Preservation both stood.

"Two Elders against. Those for letting them stay for a short time please stand."

The Elders of Hunting, Animal Taming, Healing, and Food Distribution stood along with the High Elders of Animal Resources, Water Distribution, and Records.

"That is two elders against, four elders and three high elders for, with two elders and one high elder abstaining. Even if those against could sway those not voting it would not be enough to change the outcome. Jordan and his companions may remain in the village for a short time."

"No more than three days." The Security Elder insisted.

"Three months. It may take some time for Prowl to train our hunters in new techniques." The Hunting Elder insisted.

"We will only be staying as long as it takes for our party to rest and fully recover from our travels and then we will continue to the capital." Jordan said, forcefully.

"So be it. Prowl, do you think you can look over our relics now?" The High Elder asked.

“Yes, but I think the first one should be the one that involves the elder of water distribution as well."

"Oh?" The Water Elder said in surprise.

"Can you insist that Truffle should only be interviewed while all three of us are there? That way he will feel protected and less scared." I mentally asked Jordan.

"Do you think you'll be alright on your own?" Jordan asked out loud.

"Yes, you know my skills and abilities, I should be fine."

Jordan nodded and then headed toward the Animal Resources High Elder. "Elder, I'd like to talk to you about Truffle before you meet him. I think things will go better if you know what we've already learned about him."

I took a deep breath and let it out slowly.

"I'm not going to forget what you called me or that you threatened me. You'll get what's coming to you." The poison elder hissed.

"To think Jordan thought so highly of you, even loved you. I pity you. Now if you will excuse me I have important matters to attend to."

"Listen you-"

I glared at her. "Move or be removed as a corpse." I could hear and feel myself growling like Rider did when he was frustrated or angry. I blinked in surprise. That was new.

Jordan's step-mother was gone but I could smell fear and glancing down I noticed a small trail of wet spots leading out of the building. I sniffed again and discovered I could sense a lot about the people in the room from their scents. I felt normal. Was this a skill everyone had and I'd just been nose blind this whole time or was it like my ability to see better at night?

The High Elder waved for me to follow them out so I pushed my thoughts aside. I'd deal with this new development later.

***

I wasn't surprised there was a pump just outside. Knowing the internal structure and now really observing the external decor the building had once served as a simple church. It didn't take long to explain how the relic worked. However several observers wanted to prove I was wrong. I didn't mind not having to do the pumping and the pump was quickly producing fresh water. At which the crowd quickly dispersed. Likely hurrying to find the pumps nearest where they lived.

"I would never have thought to put water in to get more water out. How did you figure that out?" The Water Elder asked.

"If I knew I'd tell you. All I can do is guess that I found the information somewhere while hunting for relics. Honestly I wish I knew more."

"You said that exposure to relics often triggers memories associated with them. Let us see if we can improve your memory." The records Elder said, gesturing for me to follow.

"Jordan, how honest should I be about what they have?" I mentally asked.

"If you know what it is and it can help the village, yes I still want to help them, then be completely honest. If it is dangerous then be vague but try and insist that it not be displayed or messed with. Oh and I probably should tell you most of the items you will be shown is stuff I found while exploring the ruins around the area. If I thought it was dangerous I made sure it was well hidden instead of bring it back. Though that doesn't mean I was always right."

"Here we are the museum of relics and records."

I entered and fund myself in a rather cramped foyer.

“We'll start with the large items.”

I was ushered into a room with large appliances. I looked around and almost everything required power to operate.

”Everything in here was found primarily in houses around the village.”

I moved around the room looking at each item until I'd finished. "As far as I can tell most of these items are the same things." I found one with a cord and plug. They have one of these parts that fit into a receptacle on the wall or floor. Now this is only speculation, but I think the ones from the relic age had something that traveled through the wires in order to make them function."

"Yes, I have thought that too, but what about these two? Jordan found this first one. And I found this one when I was young."

I recognized both but the second wasn't complete. “This one should have had two tubs on a stand with it."

"Yes, there is something like that in the village. We use it to wash clothing. It is much easier and safer standing up here in the village than kneeling at the stream outside.”

“There is another piece. It should have two rollers, a handle that you turn to make them spin, and a rod that connects into this part at the back." I lifted the lid to make sure the dasher was still in place.

"Um, the bakery has something like that for rolling out bread dough."

"Get those parts and I'll explain how this works."

"They are not going to be happy."

“They are using parts of relics, doesn't that fall under your authority?"

"Well, yes."

"Good. And while you are retrieving those relics can you bring me two pieces of cloth and a spool of thread. As fine a thread as you can find."

"You're being rather demanding."

”I've witnessed both of these relics being used for the betterment of other villages at some point. If you disagree the ones using the parts can go back to using then as they want. I'm just here to explain."

"Of course. Julia, please come here. I need you to run some errands."

I heard a crash and then stomping feet. "Mom, you may be a high elder, but that doesn’t mean you can order me around like a child. Oh! Who are you?"

"I, my good lady, am a stranger and a relic expert. I was just explaining to the High Elder that this relic is missing some parts, however if they could be brought here I would explain what these relics are and how they can be used to improve the village."

"As he said he is a stranger so it's not like I can leave him here alone."

"Okay, what do I need to get?" Her scowl deepened as she was told, but finally she set off.

"Shall we move to another room?"

"In a moment. I need to make sure the sewing machine is complete." The belt wasn't in the best of condition but it wasn't broken or overly brittle. It would work until they could find a way to replace it. Otherwise it was complete.

Next we moved to what I could only describe as a circle room. Inside was old tire rims, fans of every sort, plates, basically if it was round it was stored here. "Not a lot that I can really explain in there yet. Let’s try another."

The next room was full of items that could be easily carried. I was able to describe most of it since it was mostly the same things Rider had collected. However there was one item that had the same feeling as the mask, my armor, and my blasters. I picked it up and placed it in the elder's hands. "This relic I need to explain last."

There was a commotion in the appliance room so we returned there.

"Listen, I don't care if it is a relic that is an integral part of my bakery and you can't just take it."

"Yes, and with all the butchering going on we need to soak and wash more clothes than normal."

"Well those washing should be happy about this then." I took the roller and attached it to the washer. Then positioned the tubs. “This is a washing machine. First you put the clothes in. Try not to over fill it" I lifted the lid. “Once the cloths are in you put in soap shavings and then fill almost full of water. Then by pushing and pulling this handle on the side it moves the center dasher back and forth. This has the same effect as scrubbing on a wash board, which you may still need to do for really difficult stains. Now you see how the top is sloped?" I reached in and pulled out an imaginary shirt. "You take the item out of the now dirty water, oh I should have mentioned you fill the two tubs as well, you insert the cloth into the wringer very carefully so you don’t get your fingers in it."

"Done that a couple of times. It isn't pleasant." The baker laughed.

I nodded. “Then you use the crank to wring out the dirty water that flows back down into the washer. The item you just put in the wringer goes into the first tub to soak in the clean water. You do this with the full load then you drain the dirty water from the washer here at the bottom. And you're ready to start the next load. You then either use a paddle or just your hands to agitate the rinsing clothes to get any leftover dirt and soap out."

"But why two tubs?" One woman asked.

"To be sure all the grime is rinsed out. The wringer rotates to between the two tubs and you wring the clothes again, correct?" Another stated, getting the idea.

"And after repeating you use the wringer again to get the water out a last time before you hang them to dry. You'll find the clothes dry much quicker."

"That's great for them, but what about me?" the baker asked.

"Yes, I'm sure I saw something that you can use as a replacement in the circular room."

"You said there wasn't anything of use in there." The elder said glaring at me.

"And at the time I didn't. The smell of cooking on the baker here made the memory surface. Now did you get the thread and clothe I requested?"

"I have it here but thread this fine and strong takes a lot of work and I'm not going to just let you have it. Though, after seeing your demonstration of the washing relic I must say I am curios.” A seamstress said.

"Since your tread is so important I'll talk you through it. Can someone get a chair?"

In seconds a chair was in front of the machine. "Please sit but refrain from moving the treadle."

"The what?"

"The foot rest. Okay lift the top."

As the tailor lifted the top the arm popped out to support it causing her to freeze.

"That is supposed to happen in order to support the table. Just continue."

She finished setting the table on the arm.

"Now lift this front piece of wood and then the machine inside. Once the machine is far enough out put the front piece back down and set the machine down on it. Good, now . . ." I looked at the spool of thread and scowled. "First we need to transfer the thread to an appropriate spool. I checked the drawers. One had a few spare needles another had bobbins with ancient thread on them and another had spools of thread. I really should have checked that first. "Never mind it seems there is still plenty of relic thread here. Still you need to know how to do this. First you remove the empty bobbin. Then you remove the spool from its casing. You put your thread here and the empty bobbin here. Then you thread the thread through all these different loops and onto the bobbin. Now tilt the footrest forward and back."

"Oh! This part moved to."

That's fine you don't have any thread in it yet. Just keep tilting the treadle back and forth." I had her stop when the bobbin was half full.

"That was actually kind of relaxing."

Good because you are going to be doing more of it. Now put the bobbin back in place."

It took a couple of tries but she finally got it and the tread up through the base plate properly.

"Next you need to re-thread the machine." I guided her through the process ending with threading the needle.

"Okay now your set. First you take the two pieces of cloth and set one slightly over the other and place it here in front of the needle. Good now lower the foot. Sorry, the machine’s foot like so. Now keep your fingers clear but use both hands to guide the cloth and let the machine do the work. Just use the treadle as before."

"It's stitching!"

Okay slow down and pull the cloth back this will double stich the end to make it extra secure and now continue forward to the end where you back stitch again."

I don't understand. The tread is just going to come apart."

"Trust me."

Everyone watched as she combined the two pieces. Once she was finished I cut the threads with my knife. "Normally you probably have something more efficient for trimming thread. Sorry about that."

”It doesn't matter it’s just going to come . . ." She yanked on the two pieces of cloth. "Apart." She yanked again. "What sorcery is this? This is stronger than anything I’ve sewn."

When the needle goes down it catches the second thread from below creating knots. Now consider how close each of those knots were and you can better understand the strength."

"Elder, I request this relic be moved to my shop immediately and should any more be found they should be sent to me as well."

"Now wait, it is still a relic."

"We've been using other relics, though in different ways, for a long time. It's just that now we know more about how to use them." The tailor insisted.

"High Elder, it would mean we have more room to store more of the relics we have piled up around here." The elder's daughter whispered.

"Fine, while they do have dangers I don't see them as being any more so than the non-relics we use. You can move them to a more suitable location."

"Now I'll just point out the parts for the pasta maker, and get it set up to replace the wringer. If you send someone to guide me to the bakery tomorrow I'll explain some of the other uses. Today I need to get back to Jordan's."

“Pasta maker?” The baker asked.

“A different kind of bread product. I’ll explain tomorrow.”

"Oh yes, I guess we really shouldn't monopolize your time. But what about this?" The elder asked, holding up the short, foot long rod.

"Oh, right. That is a musical instrument I was hoping to buy or barter from you. I don't know when I learned to use it but I do know it takes a long time to master unless you have the innate talent. When I held it I knew it was why I started my relic hunting after my original broke."

"This is a musical relic? You’ll need to prove it."

We'll need to move outside where I'll have enough room to use it."

"I don't know this seems like some sort of trick." Julia said.

"Elder, has he lied yet?" one of the laundresses asked.

"I have no way of knowing for sure. However he has seemed honest."

"Fine, just let him show us. After all he doesn't have anything to gain from lying, I suppose."

"Okay, I admit I'm curious as well." The high elder stated.

She handed me the rod and we walked outside. I didn't have a clue how to use it only that I could. I closed my eyes flicked the staff to full length and let the music in my mind take me. Minutes perhaps longer passed before I opened my eyes. I was on my knees the staff collapsed back into its storage form. I couldn't remember any of what I'd just done, only that it was very active since I was gasping to catch my breath.

I looked around and noticed I'd drawn a large crowd; many of whom were crying. What had I performed? I stood and held the rod out to the Elder.

"No, you keep it. From what I just witnessed I know that instrument belongs in your keeping. I think I understand why you are so fervent in protecting those around you. You best get home. Tomorrow, after you finish at the bakery, I expect you to come here so we can go through some more relics."

"Thank you elder." I slowly walked back to Jordan's wondering just what I'd preformed and why it effected everyone watching so much.

"Die!"

My armor engaged and a copper knife bent and as it impacted. I flicked my wrist and the staff shot out catching the Poison Elder in the stomach. She was knocked to the ground on her back. "I should kill you. But I'm not going to. That would be too easy. Just know that you have made a very powerful and deadly enemy. I activated the staff’s prod and ran a low level electric current through her until she lost control of her bodily functions. "We'll be gone soon and you won't have to even think about us. But keep this stupidity up and I'll make you the most laughed at person before we go."

I turned my head and faced some bushes, “And you will be the second most laughed at Elder of Security and Noise. Now that you've both shown your hand I'll know where you are at all times." I pointed directly at him then continued on as though nothing had happened. I'd have to warn Jordan when . . . "Jordan, is everything alright at the house?"

"Yes, is there something wrong?"

"No, just a sudden irrational fear that you might have been attacked on your way home. I'll be there shortly."

"Good, because I'm certain the elders will arrive at any moment to interrogate Truffle."

"I'll pick up my pace then."

***