Searching for Answers

[Aryela Jade Secray]

Two days had passed since Elmera first met Bowen in the Topaz Market—two days in which she had played her heart out for her audiences, and also did a bit of sleuthing for gatehouse documents. She had suggested that Bowen try to look at the library or speak with the gatekeeper about the location of his siblings. While it was probably a far-fetched idea that one of them would just happen to end up at Emerald Bay, stranger things had happened before.

The red she-wolf dressed quickly that morning, donning an emerald dress and a white and green corset. It laced nicely in the front with an earth-toned thread that matched her dress. Elmera bound her headfur up and tied a couple of white swan feathers in it, symbolizing her stage name. It was typical for the she-wolf to go out in rather extravagant clothing. The garments added to the illusion when she played in the streets or in the halls. Fortunately, she had chosen clothing that wasn't quite so bulky today. She could even hike the dress up if necessarily if they had to climb ladders to look for documents.

After tucking her instruments safely away in the barracks, save for her fiddle which she always seemed to enjoy carrying with her, Elmera grabbed a coin pouch, her cloak, and ran out the door. She had promised to meet Bowen by noon, but after playing half the night in the tavern, Elmera had accidentally slept in a bit too late. It was probably nearly a quarter after noon all ready! Fortunately she knew how to get ready quickly.

Elmera darted across the fort grounds, avoiding beasts here and there with nimble steps. When she spotted the gatehouse, but not Bowen, she felt a mixture of dread and relief. Dread because he may have left already, and relief because he may have yet to arrive.

Panting, Elmera slowed and looked around for the wolf. She had a small satchel with her that contained some paperwork, mostly pertaining to Talberry and some of the research she had found. One paw moved up so she could eye the location of the sun. Though it was a bit chilly outside, the sun warmed her fur nicely. The cloak helped, of course.

With nothing else to do but wait, Elmera leaned against one of the fort walls, watching as beasts trundled past. After a moment of thought, she pulled her fiddle loose and began to tune the strings. She could at least play a bit while she waited for Bowen, though that might create a crowd. Word was spreading quickly about the arrival of a Lemardee. Some knew of her, and some were quickly learning to respect or enjoy her music. Maybe it would prompt her family to come visit her. After all, they always made more money and created a bigger stir when all of the Lemardees were together.

[Bowen Lark]

Bowen itched under his uniform. The material was as light and well-spun as the tunics he had purchased two days before, yet the wolf struggled beneath it like he was too warm. His father had died in military garb, something Bo remembered while threading the Twilight Tracker's insignia pin over his right breast the day before. He felt like a prisoner in the dark green tunic, even though it was styled loose to supply for ample movement. Wearing the colours, playing the role of the soldier...these new responsibilities nagged at him, like he was still trying to pay off a debt incurred years before. The training wasn't bad – scouting exercises, sparring, and one turn of “hide in the forest” that had lightened his mood somewhat. But all of it was an obligation, and that rankled him down in the pit of his heart where he was still afraid of being caught, being bought, being a slave again. The enlistment was done, all signed up and tucked away, but Bowen wasn't through worrying yet. That would take more than two days.

The day was overcast, with clouds drawing together in thick grey clumps and the threat of rain demonstrated in the odd rumble of thunder. Bowen had left his cloak – a solid black-blue, in line with the Tracker's uniform requirements – in his bunk. The pants were his, soft fabric turned a pale grey hue after many washings. He carried his dagger only – training from earlier that morning had required he travel light, which meant the bow and dirk were also in his bunk. The last two days with the Trackers had started and finished early. Bo did his stint of training before the sun came up, went for a round of sparring, and was done the day before noon. He was more nocturnal by habit, used to sleeping through hot days on long roads and moving by night, but the schedule was one he would adapt to. The south seemed to be in a spin of peace right now – soldiers had more leisure, the market was busier, the land calm and quiet. Ah can handle this bit fine, the wold thought, walking past the marketplace where he'd last seen Elmera. Soon as ah find Darrow, ah'm awa' frem here anyway. Mebbe settle inna little plot, give off wanderin' awhile. Better than gettn' mehsel' killt like Da did, in sem bloody fool war.

His mind flicked over to Elmera. The she-wolf had occupied the space at the front of the wolf's head for the last two days. Bowen had enjoyed her company, more so than he expected to. She was responsible for setting him on the record-searching path – they were going to sift through a pile of notes from the gatekeeper that afternoon, looking for Darrow's name amidst the lists. Bo meant to show the she-wolf his gratitude: he carried a small basket of food and tea in a flask, all of his own making. Their mutual enjoyment of the market's fare had started off the conversation that lead him to the gatehouse now.

Bo arrived at the gatehouse. He was early, a residual habit of his life as a thrall. The masters never tolerated lateness under any reason, even when a balking horse had stamped on the wolf's paw, breaking it. A shudder passed along Bowen's spine. He looked around the gatehouse and up a narrow flight of stairs, thinking it would be easier to find Elmera with a bit of height. The wolf trotted up the stairs to the walltops and found a spot from where he could see the entire inner courtyard of the gates. The fort was expansive, a sprawling layout of buildings and streets enough to house most of the south. It was an enviable home: secure, close to the wild, and sparsely populated. There was enough of a military to combat any real threat, but the sheer size of the fort dwarfed the number of its citizens. Bo found himself, with a certain amount of grudging acceptance, liking the place.

He propped his elbows against the cold stone ledge and surveyed the residents moving around the courtyard. The sombre weather made the entire fort seem quiet, although the heavy smoke coming from the tavern's chimney belied this assumption. Most were just indoors, avoiding the chill air and grim skies while tucking into a spot of supper and an ale. Bo's gut rumbled in agreement with the sentiment – he glanced at the basket of food and wondered when Elmera was going to arrive.

One ear twitched toward the faint echo of plucked strings. Bo looked around the courtyard, confusion knotting his brow. He glanced in every corner and then looked down, where Elmera was tuning her fiddle directly beneath him. A brief smile tugged at the wolf's maw. He gathered the basket and tried to move down the steps with as much poise as he could manage. The uniform and its itch was forgotten.

“Afternoon, Elmera,” Bowen said, coming from the stairs to where she stood against the wall. “Ah got here a moment ago – figured ah'd watch fer yeh on th' wall. Didn't seem te help none.”

He lifted the basket. “Ah dun know if yeh've had a bite yet, but ah brought a bit of supper. Spinach tart an' salomene ah made last night. Almond pastries fer summat sweet. An' blackberry tea, ef yeh'd like.”

The wolf shifted the basket into both hands, presenting it to Elmera like an offering. The dense fur around his face hid a blush.

“So..eh, ah'm nay sure how te go 'bout this records readin'. Where d'we start?

[Aryela Jade Secray]

Elmera caressed the fiddle strings lovingly, thinking about the song she had been working on for the past week or so. She had most of the melody written, but the refrain was still difficult. If the words would only come to her, it would be much easier to finish the song. She wanted it done by the time she was supposed to meet her siblings, but that also required leaving Emerald Bay and possibly not returning before winter hit. Not ideal traveling conditions, and it looked as if she might actually have a steady job here. The Commanders had enjoyed her music, and she was preparing a small concert for the Diamond Hall...whenever it was next used.

“Afternoon, Elmera."

The red she-wolf glanced over at the stairs and smiled as Bowen approached her. Her eyes roved over his uniform for a moment, and she had to admit that he looked quite dashing in the Twilight Tracker garb. It suited him, even if he looked a tad bit uncomfortable with the most likely itchy fabric.

“Ah got here a moment ago – figured ah'd watch fer yeh on th' wall. Didn't seem te help none.”

Elmera chuckled merrily and reached out to grab her fiddle case. "Good afternoon, Bowen. I'm sorry that I'm late. I slept in a bit later than I expected...the tavern beasts just wouldn't let me leave last night," she added with a pleasant laugh. Elmera took a moment to put her fiddle away then draped the strap around her shoulders again. "You look nice, by the way," she added, gesturing to his garb. "I haven't seen many beasts wearing fort uniforms yet, but I don't typically go near the training grounds. The market is my domain."

“Ah dun know if yeh've had a bite yet, but ah brought a bit of supper. Spinach tart an' salomene ah made last night. Almond pastries fer summat sweet. An' blackberry tea, ef yeh'd like.”

"Oh!" Elmera exclaimed as she caught whiff of the food. She leaned towards the basket and sniffed before a delighted expression crossed her face. "Hmm, I am a bit peckish. And while you didn't have to make anything to thank me for helping you, I am quite excited to try your cooking. It smells simply divine." The she-wolf grinned widely and gave a small shrug of her shoulder. Though a musician at heart, Elmera did have a soft spot for food.

She reached out to take the basket and in doing so, handed him her satchel.

“So..eh, ah'm nay sure how te go 'bout this records readin'. Where d'we start?"

"Well, look in there and see if those papers help. I was actually researching a little bit yesterday while I was trying to recover my voice. There's parchment about Talberry, including the library and the gatekeeper, so you can send a bird or a messenger to him. He's a rather kind beast." Elmera shifted on her footpaws then gestured towards the upper gatehouse.

"For now, I was thinking we could talk with the gatekeeper, Keleanth, I think her name is. She's been watching over Emerald Bay's gates for a good many seasons. If anyone saw your sister, or recorded her name, I'm certain it would be Keleanth. I've heard she's nice...so long as you don't disrupt her nap. Oh, and never, ever throw a snowball at her. I was even warned by one of the healers that that would surely upset her."

Elmera snapped her mouth shut after that, realizing just how chatty she was being. The she-wolf was normally a very friendly bard, but sometimes when she was with certain creatures, she felt even more relaxed and jovial.

[Bowen Lark]

"Good afternoon, Bowen. I'm sorry that I'm late. I slept in a bit later than I expected...the tavern beasts just wouldn't let me leave last night/”

The wolf nodded. He couldn't pretend to understand the demands on Elmera's talent, but he knew the drag of long nights and the unwelcome call of the morning after. The she-wolf seemed no worse after a night of performing – and it had likely added weight to her purse. Bo offered a slow half-smile again.

"You look nice, by the way. I haven't seen many beasts wearing fort uniforms yet, but I don't typically go near the training grounds. The market is my domain."

“Oh, er, ehm,” Bowen said. The blood rushing to his face brought along a low thrum to his ears. He coughed. “Mah thanks. Ah came frem th' barracks. Could've put on summat else, but...” the wolf shrugged.

Bo took the satchel from Elmera, gazing at it with befuddlement. Paper rustled under his grasp, deepening the wolf's confusion. He looked at Elmera, brows raised.

"Well, look in there and see if those papers help. I was actually researching a little bit yesterday while I was trying to recover my voice. There's parchment about Talberry, including the library and the gatekeeper, so you can send a bird or a messenger to him. He's a rather kind beast."

Understanding slackened the wolf's features. He nodded again and offered another grateful smile.

“Ah'm fine fehr walkin', but put a book in front of meh an' ah would no' know where te start. Ah know meh letters well enough te send summat to Talberry – do tha' right this evenin', ah think.”

A low rumble of thunder cut over him. Bo glanced at the sky and winced, smelling rain. After spending most of the morning trotting around the forest, he was ready to be indoors and sealed away from the impending storm.

Bowen opened the satchel and pulled out a piece of parchment. Reading was...a struggle most days, but the wolf had a solid grasp on basic sentences. He glanced over the writing, piecing out a meaning there and now. Talberry wasn't too far off, it was a market town, almost a scaled down version of the fort, and it sat on several road and sea ports for merchant access. Darrow could have been there, traveling from some other town or arriving by boat. Bo didn't remember enough about his sister to attempt any sort of speculation about her wandering practices, but from a sensible standpoint, Talberry was a good place to start hiking from.

"For now, I was thinking we could talk with the gatekeeper, Keleanth, I think her name is. She's been watching over Emerald Bay's gates for a good many seasons. If anyone saw your sister, or recorded her name, I'm certain it would be Keleanth. I've heard she's nice...so long as you don't disrupt her nap. Oh, and never, ever throw a snowball at her. I was even warned by one of the healers that that would surely upset her."

A low laugh escaped him. Bo hadn't been admitted by the gyrfalcon, but her reputation was well known around the fort. He looked back and nodded at the gatehouse.

“Ah guess we'll ha' te see if she's awake now. Ah dun see th' hare fella keepin' mind over th' gates, so may'ap Keleanth's done her nap fehr th' day.”

Bo leveled a warm smile at the she-wolf, feeling more at ease in his uniform. It wasn't such a bad strip of cloth and buttons – different than he was used to, but not worse. He caught a few relieved glances from other citizens when he passed them. Seeing a soldier in uniform had a way of relaxing tense townbeasts. The uniform meant the fort was being protected, and within the fort, its citizens. Bowen was part of a larger structure now, someone the other creatures could depend on for help. It was...different. He didn't know what kind of different yet.

“Shall we ha' sem supper first, Elmera?”

[Aryela Jade Secray]

“Oh, er, ehm. Mah thanks. Ah came frem th' barracks. Could've put on summat else, but...”

Elmera chuckled softly under her breath as she saw the blood rush to Bowen's face. Oh, she hadn't meant to embarrass the poor wolf! She had that habit, unfortunately. As cheery and friendly as she was, Elmera often threw out compliments that made their recipients dash away blushing. Let it be known that she did not hand them out freely. She meant every compliment sincerely.

A light smile touched her muzzle but quickly vanished when she heard the thunder. Elmera peered up at the sky and flicked her ears back. She didn't mind the rain. Quite the contrary actually since it brought her inspiration. It did, however, run the risk of ruining her instruments if they were left out in the stormy weather for too long. Elmera had reinforced all of her cases with extra cloth and wood, but that could only do so much. She'd want to get inside before the rain got too heavy.

“Ah guess we'll ha' te see if she's awake now. Ah dun see th' hare fella keepin' mind over th' gates, so may'ap Keleanth's done her nap fehr th' day.”

"Oh? I suppose you're right," Elmera replied as she peered up at the portcullis. Kel was probably on the lookout for travelers. It would be more than fantastic if she had spotted Darrow, or at least one of Bowen's siblings. It would certainly make their job a lot easier. The she-wolf started for the stairs, basket in paw, when Bowen called to her.

“Shall we ha' sem supper first, Elmera?”

"Hm?" Elmera blinked in surprise and looked back at Bowen. She would have expected him to want to talk with the gatekeeper as soon as possible to discover the location of his siblings, but maybe he was about as hungry as she was. While she'd had dinner last night, it had been early in the evening, and she still had yet to eat something today.

The bard bit her lip then stepped down, a warm smiling coming to her face. "That's a good idea. I think better on a full stomach anyway." She glanced around for a moment then gestured to a table that some of the guards must use on their shift breaks. "Let's hope it doesn't start raining too quickly, hmm?" Elmera placed her instrument on a bench then set the basket down in front of them. The tantalizing smell filled her nose as she pulled back the cloth over the food. Fighting back a rumble of her stomach, she nudged the basket closer to Bowen. "Would you like to do the honors?"

Elmera pulled her gown aside a bit so she could sit down without tearing the nice cloth. One paw fell reverently on top of her instrument, keeping it close just in case any greedy paws were close by. She knew there were a few thieves around Emerald Bay, but creatures worse than that she had yet to see. Elmera considered herself to be a careful she-wolf, so hopefully she wouldn't accidentally stumble upon the unsavory characters of the dark streets.

"What have you been up to since we last spoke?"

[Bowen Lark]

A flashing grin lit Bo's features. Eager as he was to get along with the records business and pester Keleanth, the wolf was hungry. Eating would take only a few moments – Bowen could extend his patience for that. The scent of lightly-spiced salmone beckoned him, prompting another low rumble from the wolf's belly. He let out a chagrined huff in response to Elmera's smile, tail twitching slightly. Although the day was grim, his mood was growing lighter by the second. A good meal would set them on the right path to research – when hungry, Bo could barely walk a straight line, let alone decipher weeks, months (seasons?) worth of records.

The wolf approached Elmera, letting his hands fall against the swordbelt cinched at his waist. He looked at the sky again, a sloped smile creasing his mouth.

“Rain should hold, fehr a bit at least,” Bowen said, sitting down across from the she-wolf. “May ha' te eat quick though.”

He pulled the basket closer, fighting back a growl of hunger as the scent lifted into the air. He'd made the salomene and spinach tarts the night before, craving a familiar supper. The salomene was done up from perch cooked over a fire and then pan-fried in oil with a variety of spices and a hit of wine. It made for a light meat dish, perfect with the heavier spinach tarts. Bo took a plate from the bottom of the basket and put two of the perch fillets and a tart on it before handing the plate to Elmera. Bowen served himself the same amount, happy to see it was all still warm. He uncorked the flagon of tea and placed it between them to share.

“Tastes well te mash th' tart in wi' th' salomene,” the wolf said, spearing a piece of tart and fish onto his fork.

He ate slowly. The tart crust soaked in juices from the perch. The flavours – mace, cloves, red wine – partnered well with the mellower taste of the spinach. It was a good meal, and it would give them the energy to see through the rest of the day. Bo's tail twitched again.

"What have you been up to since we last spoke?"

Bo scraped up the last few crumbs on his plate and downed them, taking a sip of tea to settle the meal. He raised his eyes at Elmera and smiled.

“Trainin' mostly. Gen'ral Secray dun let th' reins slack too much fehr her troop. We do drills in th' dark hours of mornin', an' then spar a bit 'fore it gets late evenin'. Take sentry an' guard duties too, when needed. Between tha' ah sent off a bird te th' last town ah looked for Darrow en – got sem friends wi' good eyes an' ears who'll help meh look inte Talberry.”

The wolf leaned back, grunting as a series of clicks went up his spine. The food sat snugly in his belly – enough to fill, too little to make Bo sleepy.

“Ah suppose yeh've been keepin' busy wi' singin' an' th' like,” he said, tilting an ear in the direction of the tavern. “Sem of th' lads in th' barracks say it's a rare treat te have a bard coom by an' sing fehr 'em. Seems everyone already knows yeh.”

Bowen reflected on the lack of anonymity Elmera had – she was a public figure just like the commanders and generals, and her lifestyle didn't afford much in the way of privacy. Someone was likely always begging for a song. The thought made him itchy again, but Elmera was probably used to being recognized, to being solicited for songs and music.

“Yeh like th' fort so far? Gud audience?”

[Aryela Jade Secray]

Elmera eagerly took the plate as it was presented to her. The scent of the salomene and the tarts were simply divine. The food market often smelled wonderful, but Bowen's cooking was even better. Elmera licked her muzzle before she even set the plate down, eyeing the herbs and the crust around the spinach. She could cook, of course, but she hardly took the time to make something as fancy as this.

Gently, she placed the food in front of her and glanced at the drink. Tea would certainly go well with this meal. Fortunately, Bowen didn't seem too shy about sharing the flask. It would be rather hard to each have the tea without any cups available otherwise. Elmera pressed the fork into the perch and ate it slowly, savoring the delectable taste.

“Tastes well te mash th' tart in wi' th' salomene.”

Elmera was quick to mix the fish and the tart together. When she bit into the meal, a pleased smile came to her face and she looked up at Bowen happily. "It tastes wonderful, Bo!" she said and licked her muzzle. "Hmm, better than the market food for certain. You weren't jesting when you said you were a good cook." The she-wolf chuckled and went back to her meal. She reached out and took a swig of tea before nudging the drink closer to Bowen. While she ate, she happily listened as her wolf companion explained his experiences at the fort thus far.

“Trainin' mostly. Gen'ral Secray dun let th' reins slack too much fehr her troop. We do drills in th' dark hours of mornin', an' then spar a bit 'fore it gets late evenin'. Take sentry an' guard duties too, when needed. Between tha' ah sent off a bird te th' last town ah looked for Darrow en – got sem friends wi' good eyes an' ears who'll help meh look inte Talberry.”

"Good, I'm glad you have some friends who are willing to help you search." Elmera finished off the tart, leaving just a little perch left. "I'm sure between all of us, we'll find out what happened to your sister." Or at least she hoped so. She hated to think that their time spent searching would achieve nothing. Bo deserved to find his family, especially after the rough experiences he had been through. A faint gleam of sorrow crept into her eyes, but Elmera chased the emotions away and went back to her fish.

“Ah suppose yeh've been keepin' busy wi' singin' an' th' like. Sem of th' lads in th' barracks say it's a rare treat te have a bard coom by an' sing fehr 'em. Seems everyone already knows yeh. Yeh like th' fort so far? Gud audience?”

Elmera couldn't hide the blush. While she was used to receiving compliments from other creatures, she still felt a little embarrassed when she heard that other inhabitants of the fort were talking about her. It seemed that Emerald Bay didn't have very many bards willing to play at a tavern late into the night. It was a treat to have a bard around, especially one who knew so many songs. It was rare when a beast cried out a melody that Elmera didn't know. One paw reached out to fondly pat her instrument before stretching out for the drink again.

"Aye, it's the blessing and the curse of being a bard. When you're well known, more beasts are willing to flip a coin into your case. Unfortunately, it also makes you a target for pickpockets. Bards have to constantly watch their money pouches, especially at the end of the night." After taking a deep sip, she passed the drink back to Bowen. "I'm really beginning to like Emerald Bay. Most of the creatures here are so kind and receptive to my music. The musicians at the tavern are especially fun to play with. They're so generous when we split our coins at the end of the night."

Elmera grinned and leaned back, rubbing her stomach with her paw. Oh, she was quite content now. "The Commanders have been so kind to me. I think I'll stay at Emerald Bay for a time, especially since it seems safer than several of the forts I've been to before." The she-wolf shuddered slightly and rested her chin on her paw. "My siblings have been accosted by thieves at other forts. Not three years ago, Benjamin nearly had his throat slit because he wouldn't give up his pouch. As I said, it's wonderful being a bard, but dangerous too." With a casual shrug, Elmera reached out to stack her plate with Bowen's. "I know I've said it already, but that was a wonderful meal, Bowen. Thank you so much." She flashed him a pleasant smile then glanced up at the portcullis. "Would you like to speak to Lady Keleanth now?"

****

Rubbish, rubbish, and more rubbish. Aric picked at the trash that had been thrown out behind the tavern. There were slim pickings these days. Ever since the bard had arrived, more and more beasts ate at the tavern so there was less to throw out by the end of the night. The wild dog whimpered and pushed aside an apple core sadly. His large black ears tilted back and he brushed a little dirt from his mottled black, white, and golden coat. One sharp-edged claw caught a scab and tore it off by accident, drawing a quiet yip from the young canine.

Aric was the youngest of his family with only about 18 years on him. He was tall for his age, but terribly scrawny. His flesh practically clung to his bones, and his fur was matted and grungy. It wasn't that he didn't take care of himself...it was just difficult to go out in public and find a bath when he was typically chased back into the alley by digusted fort beasts. His brother was bigger and stronger, and he didn't seem scared of anyone, but Aric certainly was. He had wanted to leave the fort the moment they arrived but Pa had refused. "We got no where to run to," his dad had said in his gruff, foreign tongue. "We need food, we need money, we might find it here."

Aric wasn't so sure. The first few weeks had been fine. They'd found just enough food to sustain themselves. He had even stolen pouches from some travelers, but he felt awful afterward. Aric didn't have the heart of a thief, but his father brutally impressed upon him that if he wanted to live, he'd have to stoop to that level.

The dog sighed and sat down miserably against the wall. His father, Masozi, had sent his two sons out to either bring back money or food. So far they had found neither, and Aric wasn't looking forward to the beating that might be awaiting them. Their father was tough, which was probably why Aric's brother was so much stronger than Aric himself. Unlike his other siblings, Aric just didn't feel brave. He went along with his family, hoping for the best.

"We're not going to find anything," Aric mumbled in his family's tongue. "The guards are getting cautious and the food is-" The canine snapped his mouth shut as a wonderful smell reached his nose. Curious, he rolled to his footpaws and crept forward, keeping partially hidden against the tavern. When he reached the edge of it, he poked his nose out and blinked, spotting the two wolves sharing a meal together. Whatever they were eating smelled delicious! Aric's stomach rumbled loudly and he fell back quickly, grimacing. "It's not fair that they get to have such yummy food and we're stuck with scraps," he complained, not for the first time that day.

[Bowen Lark]

A small rush of pride flit up Bowen’s chest and he did not suppress the smile that came with it. He had skill with food, and watching the she-wolf enjoy the supper he’d made was deeply satisfying. Reckon this is how she feels while playin’ a song, Bo thought, licking the last speck of gravy from his muzzle. He kept silent, letting Elmera finish her meal. The flagon of tea sat between them – it was all he had for liquid. The wolf took a brief sip of tea, then pushed the flagon towards Elmera. He got by light on food and drink, taking in a little at a time. Long hours and small meals had bred that preference into him – too much fodder and the wolf felt sick and sleepy all at once.

"Good, I'm glad you have some friends who are willing to help you search. I'm sure between all of us, we'll find out what happened to your sister."

His ears went back at the conviction in Elmera’s voice. She sounded so confident, and was already so well-prepared, bettering his years of effort in an evening. Bowen coughed.

“Ah’m beginnin’ teh believe yeh,” he said, giving her a shadow smile.

Bowen listened to Elmera describe her experiences as a fort bard, one ear tipped to the sky’s faint rumblings. The amount of attention from strangers she received was enough to make him shiver. Singing was not a loner’s vocation. He preferred to be on the edge of a crowd, with a sure exit already in place. Being a recognizable face did not suit.

"I'm really beginning to like Emerald Bay. Most of the creatures here are so kind and receptive to my music. The musicians at the tavern are especially fun to play with. They're so generous when we split our coins at the end of the night."

Bo nodded. “This es a kind place, a’right. Th’ north has et’s own mercy, but th’ folk there ha’ teh be hard.”

"My siblings have been accosted by thieves at other forts. Not three years ago, Benjamin nearly had his throat slit because he wouldn't give up his pouch. As I said, it's wonderful being a bard, but dangerous too."

The wolf flinched. “Fates, yeh’d be safer as a highway robber. Th’ rough are allus teethin’ on those they see as soft. Ah knew rough beasts – they see singin’ as a weaklin’s work.” He scowled. “Ah’ve nay truck wi’ tha’ kind of thenkin’ – et leads teh slavery, an’ worse. Th’ lot who went after yehr Benjamin thenk havin’ a sharper blade makes ‘em above right an’ wrong.”

He’d had his tangle of robbers while wandering. Bowen tended to avoid both sides of the law – sheriffs and bailiffs and the like could be just as ornery at the wrong moment. It was easier to go alone and hope he stayed safe. Having the bow and dirk helped – not many were like to test an armed wolf on a dark road. Some scraps were unavoidable – once, he’d rendered a trail thief’s arm useless over a satchel of coins. The road was rough, living on it more so. He thought that putting up walls might keep the more dangerous creatures out, but if Elmera had experience getting harassed...

“Guess nowhere’s really safe,” he said.

"I know I've said it already, but that was a wonderful meal, Bowen. Thank you so much. Would you like to speak to Lady Keleanth now?"

His mood lightened. Bo took the plates and stacked them back into the basket, leaving the tea for Elmera.

“Aye. May as well nip indoors – sky looks ready teh open up.”

Bo stood, shifting his shoulders under the uniform. Et’s no’ so bad – bit borin’ es all. The courtyard was nearly deserted.

“Shall we?” he asked, extending a slow smile to the she-wolf.

***

Kojah fell under the onslaught of blows raining down from the wildcat’s heavy paws.

“Thief! Scum! Tryin’ to raid my catch – I’ll have ye strung up like one of those fish if ye don’t beat tail an’ scram!”

Deafened by the cat’s bellowing, the dog skittered away still half-bent for the alley. A rock clipped his ear.

“Stay ‘way from th’ docks, mongrel!”

Kojah ran until the smell of salt and fish guts disappeared. In two days he’d been caught and banished, first from the markets, now the docks. There were no jobs, so no money, and no food and nowhere to live but the middle of that stinking cold forest! A distressed growl rattled in the dog’s throat – Desta and Masozi would be so angry. He had to find Aric.

Of Masozi’s two sons, Kojah was the more physically imposing. He stood only a shade over Aric’s head, but where his younger brother was lanky and gaunt, Kojah had retained compact muscle and a wiry, sinuous body. His fur was paler than normal for an African Wild dog, growing in all shades of red, gold, and brown, except for his muzzle and ears, which were black. He wore tattered grey breeches and a black tunic. Masozi insisted that he and Aric carry knives, so Kojah kept one in a strap on his forearm.

Their father and sister, Desta, believed that there was enough fat in the south to steal a piece for themselves, and regarded labour as little better than the slavery they had escaped.

Think of it, Ko!” Desta was railing again. “Think of what was taken from us – stealing from these beasts is nothing put what we are due.”

And Masozi agreed. The old dog was deeply bitter – bitter about the past, bitter about his wife’s death in slavery, and bitter that freedom had not been any kinder to them. To him, stealing was cathartic.

As was beating. Kojah had taken his share of them – fewer now that he stood taller and brawnier than his father. Aric still suffered; as the youngest, he always had. Both of them suffered under Desta’s foul temper, which grated like rough stone against glass. She tended their small camp and kept Masozi plied with strong-brewed teas and talk of the riches awaiting them.

”We just need to find the right beast. Then, we’ll get what we deserve/

The dog padded around a building and saw Aric pressed against the tavern wall. Slowing his pace, Kojah crept up next to his younger brother.

"It's not fair that they get to have such yummy food and we're stuck with scraps.”

“Since when has our life ever been fair?” Kojah rumbled, following Aric’s gaze to the two wolves. “If I’d been here earlier, maybe we could have stolen their food. Come on, Masozi and Desta will be expecting us.”

[Aryela Jade Secray]

“Guess nowhere’s really safe."

Elmera shook her head and sighed, wishing that times were different. Perhaps, one day, bards and travelers would be able to find a place that was peaceful. With brigands and bandits lurking around every corner, it was a very unlikely dream, but she could still hope. Elmera knew all too well the price on the heads of her kin. If they weren't careful, they might end up in slavery, forced to entertain a single vermin. Of her siblings, Elmera was in the worst danger due to the rarity of her pure fur color, as well as the fact that she often traveled alone. Her siblings kept together in pairs, or they had mates. Elmera had neither, so her siblings were always relieved when she turned up for the yearly festival in one piece. One of these days she might not be so lucky.

The she-wolf flicked her ears thoughtfully and peered up at the sky. It was indeed starting to darken. Beasts had scattered, hoping to find shelter in the barracks or in the tavern where they could grab a warm meal. Elmera shivered slightly as a cold gust of wind blew across them. The weather felt like it was getting colder as well.

“Aye. May as well nip indoors – sky looks ready teh open up. Shall we?”

"Aye, that's a good idea, Bo." She helped him finish up gathering what was left of the meal. Elmera hiked up a section of her gown so she wouldn't trip over it. After slinging her instrument over her shoulder, she moved quickly to the stairs then climbed them nimbly, her tail swishing behind her. They were just about at the top when the sky decided to open and shed a chilly rain down upon them.

"Oh!" Elmera cried out in surprise and laughed. She pulled her cloak hood over her head and flashed a smile at Bowen. "Hurry!"

Guards shifted out of the way as the red she-wolf and her companion hurried across the battlements. By the time they reached the gatehouse where Kel could be found, Elmera's cloak was drenched, and her fur was getting quite damp. She knocked on the door loudly three times then poked her head inside, water dripping from her loose strands of headfur.

"Forgive me, Lady Keleanth? I was wondering if we may have a word with you?"

She peered around, blinking through the rain and hoping that the gyrfalcon was actually available for conversation.

****

Aric glared after the two wolves, his temper even fouler than it had been before. He hated being the youngest in his family. His sister picked on him relentlessly, pegging him as the "dimwit" of their kin. She had never been nice to him, but Aric did his best to take the abuse in stride. If he tried to do something that might remotely harm her, Masozi would have his head. Destra was the apple of her father's eye, and it made Aric sick to his stomach. He felt like the pack animal at times, forced to carry his family's worries, belongings, and blows. He had plenty of stripes from his father for disobeying him or for being foolish. In truth, Aric was afraid of his father, and his brother knew it well. As gaunt as he was, Aric wasn't good for much of anything except for slipping away easily during a fight. He was thin, but he was fast.

The wild dog sighed and glanced back at his brother, only to blink when he realized the condition Kojah was in.

“Since when has our life ever been fair? If I’d been here earlier, maybe we could have stolen their food. Come on, Masozi and Desta will be expecting us.”

"Blimey, what happened to you?" the young dog asked. He looked his brother up and down, but a flash of light out of the corner of his eye caught his attention. Aric scooted closer to the edge of the tavern, staring at the two wolves silently. It was a buckle on the she-wolf's music case that had captured his eyes. He stared at it then looked at her a little longer. Recognition finally dawned on his face, and as Kojah started to slip away, he reached out and snagged his brother by the tunic.

"Oy, Kojah, hang on. Ain't that the bard that's been lurking around town? Da's been talking about her a bit. I can't remember what he was going on about though."

As the sky opened, and the rain splattered on his nose, Aric whined and leaned back against the tavern wall for some shelter. He shivered, keeping his paws tucked beneath his arms. "Where'd Da and Desta say they'd meet us?"

[Keleanth Windspiral]

Rain.

She loathed it.

A grumbling squawk escaped the hooked beak of the portcullis keeper as she glared up at the overcast sky. Every cloud passing overhead bore the promise of rain, and each moment caused the falcon's mood to grow a little darker. She had been hoping to get another long flight in this afternoon, but it seemed the weather had other plans. While the white raptor could fly in the rain, she preferred to avoid it.

"Kreeee...ah hate this weather."

"Oh, come on Kel. It's not that bad."

The otter who had spoken shrank under the withering look suddenly thrown in his direction. A clack of her beak seemed to make him decide that he needed to focus on his duties, and he moved a little closer to the guard that was closest to him. Kel was fair most of the time, and she enjoyed a good joke as much as the next beast, but not when her plans were being ruined by "bad" weather. The falcon flicked her tailfeathers, then hopped down off of the stone ledge where she'd been perched.

"Redback!" A nearby squirrel looked up at the bird and pricked his ears. "Ah'm goin' tae mah rooms fer now. If ye need me then coom git me, ye ken?"

"Aye Kel!" The squirrel saluted, then went back to what he'd been doing. Satisfied that someone was nominally in charge, the falcon headed to her eyrie. The rooms were located in the base of one of the turrets, giving her easy access to an even higher point from which she could keep watch when she desired. She ducked inside, then closed the door behind her before giving a quiet sigh.

She was just in time. The white raptor flinched as she heard the sudden deluge of water hitting the stones she'd just vacated. A shudder ran down her spine and she shot a glare at the doorway before moving towards her makeshift desk. She might as well catch up on some of her paperwork while she was stuck inside.

"Forgive me, Lady Keleanth? I was wondering if we may have a word with you?"

"Eh?" Kel's head snapped up as she heard a paw rapping on her door. She'd just gotten comfortable on her perch. The bird tilted her head, then set down her pen on the parchment before hopping down and heading to the door. She opened it and peered out at the two wolves standing in the rain. After a moment of examining the pair she shook her head and stepped back, motioning with one wing.

"Coom in, coom in. Dinnae jist stand oot there an' let yerselves git wet."

She waited until the pair entered before closing the door again. The falcon shook her head at them, then headed into the back room.

"Stay there a moment...ye're drippin'." She disappeared for a few minutes, then returned with some towels tucked under one wing. These she passed to the two wolves before stepping back and eyeing them.

"There noo, tha's better. Now, how kin ah help ye?"

[Bowen Lark]

Bowen stood straighter, trying to uncoil a ball of tension that was sitting heavy as iron in his gut. He was about to speak to some sort of official type – a fort superior, even. What am ah doin? Since when do soldiers go beggin th’ aid of their betters? His ear twitched. The South was far stranger a place than any the wolf had ever come to – stranger, and kinder. Bo glanced down at his uniform and thought, If ah have teh wear borrowed cloth, might as well be for a place like this. He was walking behind Elmera when the first scatter of raindrops came down. The cold bite of water against his fur send a shiver up the wolf’s spine, but after a moment he loosed a pleased sigh. Training that morning had been intense, and the brief shower, cold as it was, washed out some of the weariness in Bowen’s limbs.

“Hurry!”

Bo looked up as Elmera darted ahead, brow furrowing with confusion. He glanced up at the sky as another threatening rumble pealed overhead. Course. She wants out of th’ rain. The wolf shook his head and trotted after Elmera. He was quickly soaked, the fabric of his tunic clinging to his lithe frame as they approached the gatehouse door. The clime in the south was much gentler than Caneria’s had been – Bowen found that his body still remembered the harsh chill of his homeland, anticipating it by growing in thick, coarse fur. It had been embarrassing to go around the first week panting and stripped to the waist, but the new clothing from the tailor had helped. Ah should see ‘im about this uniform.

The wolf gave his head a toss to jostle water from his eyes. His bemused gaze followed Elmera’s, and Bowen had to admit he was intrigued to be meeting the fort’s official gatekeeper. His ears flicked forward as her brogue slipped out of the room’s shadows.

"Coom in, coom in. Dinnae jist stand oot there an' let yerselves git wet."

Keleanth’s northern accent warmed Bowen immediately, although the inflection was of a different cant than his own. He saluted her, stepping in beside Elmera and taking care not to scatter the floor with raindrops. Bowen accepted the towel with a rumbled thanks, running the plush fabric over his head to sop up some of the excess moisture.

"There noo, tha's better. Now, how kin ah help ye?"

The mottled wolf looked quickly to Elmera before he stepped forward. This is mah journey.

“Lady Keleanth, mah name es Bowen Lark – ah’m a new recruit here. Ah’ve coom teh ask if yeh would help meh in findin’ mah sister. She may have coom by this way – tha’ is, her name coold be in th’ records an’ like.”

He felt foolish for a moment, recklessly hopeful. Bowen stilled himself and straightened slightly, trying to find a measure of control.

“Her...ah...her name’s Darrow. Lark. Or et was, years ago. Et’s been a long while since ah’ve set eyes on her, ken.”


888


Kojah scowled at his brother’s inspection, jostling against Aric to get a better view of the two wolves.

“Nothin’ happened,” he grunted. “Same as yesterday – we’re goin’ back empty-handed to Mazosi.”

Dismissing the two wolves as unworthy of attention, the wild dog turned to go. His head was full of black clouds at the reception sure to welcome them, one filled with screaming accusations and the threat of fresh bruises. Desta’s temper was much in line with Masozi, though she used a softer voice to set barbed words into his and Aric’s flesh. Kojah’s jaw tightened into a grimace.

"Oy, Kojah, hang on. Ain't that the bard that's been lurking around town? Da's been talking about her a bit. I can't remember what he was going on about though."

Kojah looked over his shoulder. “Da likes pretty maidens, remember? Why, does she look like someone to bother with? Bards are a prickly bunch – like as not she’s got a dagger hidden by her coinpurse.”

The rain soaked into his threadbare tunic, giving Kojah a shiver. He missed the arid deserts of their homeland, when rain came so rarely it was a delight and a blessing. In this land it came frequently, turning the woodlands to marsh and acting as a cold reminder of all Kojah and his family no longer had.

"Where'd Da and Desta say they'd meet us?"

“At camp, I suppose,” the dog muttered, mouthing twisting into a humourless smirk. “Think they been doin’ any huntin’ or fishin’ this fine day?”

[Keleanth Windspiral]

Golden eyes studied the pair of wolves as they dried themselves. Kel often had off-duty visitors to her eyrie, and most were seeking some sort of information. As gatekeeper she had records of just about every beast that passed through the portcullis, whether they were heading in or out, and for what reason. It was a hassle, true, especially when there were multiple training missions scheduled, but the information did come in handy sometimes. She had to wonder if the pair of canines were seeking her knowledge in this capacity, or if there was something else that had brought them to her.

“Lady Keleanth, mah name es Bowen Lark – ah’m a new recruit here. Ah’ve coom teh ask if yeh would help meh in findin’ mah sister. She may have coom by this way – tha’ is, her name coold be in th’ records an’ like.”

The white gyrfalcon tilted her head slightly as she listened to the large male. His accent, while not quite the same as her own, drew a hint of a smile onto her beak. Emerald Bay seemed to attract a fair number of northerners. Most might not stay, but it was good to hear a familiar dialect on occasion.

“Her...ah...her name’s Darrow. Lark. Or et was, years ago. Et’s been a long while since ah’ve set eyes on her, ken.”

Ah, so they were looking for someone. Or rather, Bowen was looking for someone. Well, enough. The raptor bobbed her head once to show she understood, then gestured to a few chairs that were kept by the fireplace. While she didn't use them, she found that other beasts often felt more comfortable if they had a place to sit while she was doing her searching.

"Take a seat, both o' ye. Kin ah git ye anythin' tae drink? There be hot water in the kettle by the fire, if ye be wishin' tea or soomsich thing." Her gaze settled back on Bowen, then Kel tilted her head again before clacking her beak. "Darrow Lark...let me goo an' take a look."

There was a tickling in the back of her mind, saying that the name was familiar. That was good sign for Bowen. The falcon had a sharp mind, and a pretty good memory for names and faces. It made her an ideal candidate for her position. If she'd only seen the beast once then she might forget their appearance, but not the name.

With another clack of her beak the white bird disappeared into the back room. Elmera and Bowen would be able to hear her moving things around, trying to find the book she needed. There was a series of muffled thuds, followed by the grumble of muttered oaths. An undignified squawk was heard next, along with the ominous creaking of a large object that hadn't been properly secured. Within moments a large crash echoed through the small set of rooms, heralding the collapse of one of the bookshelves. A cloud of dust began to seep out of the room Keleanth had entered, and the white bird emerged from that cloud dragging a book and coughing.

"Fur an' feathers! When ah git mah talons on Seacrest..." The rest of the sentence was inaudible, though the falcon continued to mutter threats as she opened the book. Her golden eyes scanned the pages quickly, and she turned the pages every few minutes.

"Darrow...Darrow...hm..." A piercing whistle finally escaped the hooked beak, and Kel lifted her head to look over at the pair of wolves. A wild grin had brought a mischievous light to her eyes, and the falcon fluffed her feathers slightly as she cackled.

"Ah knew tha' name sounded familiar, laddie. Darrow Lark. Aye, she do be here. Arrived soom weeks agoo, an' walked straight entae mah gates! Ga' her nose a guid smack tae, 'twas a'most like she didnae see 'em."

Using a set of talons she pushed the open book in the large male's direction, then pointed at the name scrawled three-quarters of the way down the page. "Female wolf, Darrow Lark. There be nae records tha' she's left the fort yet, sae unless she be usin' a diff'rent name ah'd guess she still be here soomwhere." Kel's gaze softened as she looked up at Bowen, then she smiled again. "Ah hope tha' helps ye, laddie."

[Aryela Jade Secray]

Elmera took a towel gratefully once they entered the gatehouse. While she didn't mind the rain, she never enjoyed the affects it had on her instruments. Besides, it was a bit chilly out there. The she-wolf rubbed the towel through her headfur then down her clothing, trying not to spray water all over the place. She placed her instrument off to the side and cleaned the outside of the case swiftly so the moisture wouldn't leak through and damage the wood. Elmera took great care of her instruments which was why they had lasted so long.

Once she was satisfied that nothing would harm her beloved travel companion, Elmera stood up and finished drying her headfur. She was soaked, and her clothing felt uncomfortable with the way it clung to her damp body. Maybe the warm fire would dry her, or perhaps she could stop by her room and change once they were finished here.

The bard remained silent as Bo introduced himself then spoke softly. "I don't think I've had the pleasure of meeting you, Lady Keleanth, but I know of you through Lady Brooke Steeleye. I'm Elmera Lemardee, traveling bard at your service." She presented her leg and bowed her head politely before giving the conversation back over to Bowen. When he asked about Darrow, she sent him an encouraging look. She didn't know why he felt so nervous. Many beasts probably badgered the gatekeeper, looking for lost loved ones, or even their enemies. Elmera placed a soft paw on his shoulder then looked up at Kel as the large avian considered Bowen's question.

"Take a seat, both o' ye. Kin ah git ye anythin' tae drink? There be hot water in the kettle by the fire, if ye be wishin' tea or soomsich thing. Darrow Lark...let me goo an' take a look."

Elmera watched the gyrfalcon leave before she took a seat next to the fire. The kettle went untouched, and she turned towards Bowen, a comforting smile on her face. "Don't worry so, Bo. I'm sure you're not the first beast who has come asking about a family member. You may be lucky," she added, reaching out and patting his paw.

The bard fell silent and glanced towards the room where Kel had disappeared. When she heard the bangs and crashes, Elmera frowned in concern, instincts urging her to go help the gatekeeper. At the same time, she realized the gyrfalcon might not want help, and Elmera didn't exactly want to become a target of the bird's rage. She had heard far too many stories.

Kel reemerged before too long, dragging with her a large book. The rosters perhaps? It certainly looked big enough! Elmera scooted forward on her seat, waiting with rapt attention. Oh please let her give us some good news. Bo needs it.

"Darrow...Darrow...hm...Ah knew tha' name sounded familiar, laddie. Darrow Lark. Aye, she do be here. Arrived soom weeks agoo, an' walked straight entae mah gates! Ga' her nose a guid smack tae, 'twas a'most like she didnae see 'em."

Elmera's mouth dropped open in shock, and she was hard pressed not to cry out in delight. What luck! It bothered her a bit that Darrow had walked "straight into the gate" but it was possible the maid may not have been paying any attention. The she-wolf grinned wildly at Bo.

"I told you she might be able to help. Oh, thank you, Lady Keleanth. Do you know if she may have gone to the barracks?" Any other information would help, but she certainly wasn't going to push it.

***

“Da likes pretty maidens, remember? Why, does she look like someone to bother with? Bards are a prickly bunch – like as not she’s got a dagger hidden by her coinpurse.”

Aric scowled at his brother and crossed his arms bad-temperedly. It had not been a good day thus far. "I ain't daft, Kojah. I know da' likes the females, but there's somethin' about this bard. Da' kept talking about her-Kojah!"

Aric sighed loudly as his brother didn't even look like he was listening. The dog grumbled to himself and watched the bard and her friend disappear into the gatehouse. Well, so much for that. He rolled his eyes and moved closer to his brother, trying to get out of the rain.

“At camp, I suppose. Think they been doin’ any huntin’ or fishin’ this fine day?”

"Probably not. They're expecting us to bring something back for them. And you know Desta doesn't like getting her paws dirty...not with fishing or hunting anyway. Doesn't seem to bother her to get her dainty paws dirty with our blood." He scowled, thinking about the way their sister treated them. She was a pretty thing, but had a nasty temper. Unfortunately, she seemed to like to pick on Aric more than Kojah, though that was the same with his da' too. Aric didn't know what he had done wrong to deserve such punishment, but complaints would just be met with more harsh glares, punches, or words.

"Come on, let's go," he grunted and nudged his brother to guide them. Maybe he was right. The bard didn't mean anything.