Tempest Rise (Treborel)

chapter Two



The hunting lodge was more than two hours away, riding as fast as they dared they followed in Cap's wake. Katar's thoughts went to Tya May, Bosen's wife. She would never forgive him if Bosen died. Being an Empathic Healer herself, she was constantly badgering him to bring along an Empath on their hunts. Katar thought they were too clever, too experienced to get into trouble. He was wrong, and Bosen was paying the price.

The lodge was a large cabin with a wraparound porch nestled in between the tall trees next to a small stream. Arriving at the lodge, Cap greeted them at the door. Taking Bosen from Katar's arms, he carried him inside. Katar laid him on the large rustic bed at the rear of the main living area. The bed was constructed as most of the furniture from local wood and tree branches. Eades helped Hanlin from his horse, nearly carrying the exhausted gentleman inside. Leaving him, still gasping, on the small sofa before the fireplace, Eades moved over to help tend to Bosen. Cap had bandages and ointment on the small table at the side of the bed. Cleaning the wound and binding it was all they could do.

Cap relayed the information he had received over the wireless link as they worked. "The colony informed me that they received a message from the Empathic Institute a few days ago that a Healer set out after us. If he's a decent tracker, he should be here tonight.” Cap grinned at Katar, "It was Tya May, who requested it.”

"Bless that woman's determination. “ Katar answered, with a hopeful smile.

"I just hope we can keep him alive until then." Eades interrupted, after finishing with Bosen's bandages.

They left Bosen to rest and returned to the main area; Katar's attention moved to Hanlin. The elderly gentleman was still gasping trying to catch his breath. Cap went into the galley to fetch him a glass of water as Katar sat beside him on the sofa.

Hanlin spoke, seeing Katar's frown. "I'm just a bit winded, the excitement and all."

"Just relax, don't try to talk." Katar answered, soothingly as Cap returned and offered him the glass filled with cold water.

"What happened?" Hanlin asked, quietly.

"You wore yourself out; I should have realized that the pace was too much for you. Eades could have held back and rode with you." Katar answered, berating himself.

"No, I meant with Bosen." Hanlin corrected, pleased at the Prince's concern.

"He had a short dance with a grouchy Sraeb." Katar smiled, not willing to burden Hanlin with the broken relations that might result from his attack on Connor.

"Lord Wills, there is an Empathic Healer on the way. He can take a look at you after he's finished with Bosen.” Cap interceded, and then motioned toward the back bedroom. "If you can get him to bed, I'm going to see if I can hurry the Empath along." Leaving Katar to deal with Hanlin, Cap headed out the door calling over his shoulder, "I'll unsaddle the horses, but you and Eades will have to see to them."

"Is that an order?" Katar grumbled back, as Cap disappeared through the doorway.

"Yes, your Grace.” Cap's faint voice answered before the door shut behind him.

Taking his mare, Cap headed west hoping to meet the Empath on the trail. He sent the horse into a fast gallop. He traveled quickly despite the short rest after the rampage through the woods. Cap left the trail several times he’d traveled these woods many times as a small child and knew all the short cuts. He was determined to find the Empath as quickly as possible. Diving into the openings in the dense brush, he avoided the twisting trail and gained ground quickly. After nearly an hour he spied the light gray uniform of a healer through the line of trees.

Approaching the trail, he broke through the thicket a short distance ahead of the Empath. Causing the Empaths horse to startle as the surprised rider jerked on the reins. Cap was equally surprised to find a young girl before him instead of an older, experienced male Empath. Cap brought his horse to a quick halt. The young girl pulled a small knife from her boot and cautioned him. "I don't know where you came from, but I'm not easy prey.” Her voice shook slightly with fear as she raised the knife.

Not sure how to proceed, they stared silently at each other. Cap had always believed that Empaths didn't carry weapons. This pretty, chestnut haired girl couldn't be more than 18 years old. Her long straight tresses covered the spot on her jacket where the Empathic Emblem was usually worn, causing Cap to doubt she was the one he sought. Not wanting to frighten her any more than he already had, Cap tried to explain. "I'm Commander Caplin Taylor. I’m looking for an Empath that is headed for the Western Hunting Lodge.”

"My name is Kendra; I am the Empath you seek.” She answered cautiously, still holding the blade. A noise from the brush drew her attention as a small rodent pounced out, trying to evade an unseen predator. Cap was just close enough to lurch forward and snatch the dirk from her hand. Her head jerked back in alarm.

"Bosen May has been mauled by a Sraeb, his shoulder is a mass of pulp." Cap spoke quickly not wanting to hesitate any longer.

That was all Kendra needed to hear. She pushed her horse past him and headed quickly down the trail.

"Wait!" Cap called after her, turning his horse around. Reining in the horse, she turned back to face him annoyed by the delay. "Are you a good horseman?" Cap asked, as he stuffed her dirk in his jacket.

"I've been in the saddle since I was a child." She answered, abruptly.

"Okay so just a few years then?" Cap's rebuke angered her. Jerking the horse back toward the trail, she ignored him.

"Wait, I'm sorry!" Cap called after her. "It's just that I know a quicker way, if you can handle some rough terrain."

"Let’s go then." Kendra replied, gruffly, turning back to face him.

Without another word, Cap dove back into the brush and the girl followed.





Realizing he never should have let Hanlin come along on such a long journey, Katar berated himself for his irresponsibility. Leaving the now sleeping Hanlin, he went to check on Bosen.

Eades rose from the small wooden chair beside Bosen’s bed and said, “He hasn’t moved and his breathing is shallow.”

Katar gazed at Bosen, he’d grown pale. As the guilt intensified, Katar decided to take it upon himself to feed and rub down the horses. He could not bear to stand by powerless to help his friend. After the animals had been properly cared for, Katar headed back to the cabin. Cap and a young girl galloped into the small clearing as he reached the steps. Without a word, the girl jumped from her horse and ran into the building.

"Is that the healer?" Katar asked Cap his surprise evident, "She's just a kid.”

"Yeah and she came through the mountains alone with only a wisp of a knife for protection." Cap shrugged, taking the horses in the stable.

Darkness fell as Kendra continued to work on Bosen. The moment she touched the back of his neck, she was frightened that he might not live. He had lost too much blood and was very weak. Forced to move slowly, not wanting to drain the last of his strength, Kendra called upon her healing strength to heal the seeping wounds first and stop his blood loss. The stress of the healing began to show on her young face as the minutes turned to hours. Cap watched from the end of the bed, concerned that the injuries were too much for her to handle. Cap stepped forward to end the session as Kendra rose from Bosen's side. Pale and exhausted she admitted she could do no more until the Blacksmith regained his strength.

Kendra found her saddlebag in the living room. Katar had brought them in after he watered, fed and rubbed down their horses. She pulled out a leather pouch, took several small bottles out and handed them to Cap explaining, “Bosen needs a broth made with a spoonful of each herb and a little meat and vegetables if possible. Cap took the herbs and headed toward the galley to prepare the broth. Eades appeared with a steaming pot of stew, prepared from the frozen Sraeb meat they had left in the freezers. Katar and Kendra sat down at the large wooden dining table opposite Eades.

Katar turned to Kendra and said, "We are all extremely grateful, Kendra. My thanks seem meaningless, compared to what you must have gone through to arrive here so quickly." He smiled as her dark brown eyes met his. "Bosen is a very good friend of mine, we grew up together. He’d be dead by now, if you hadn't come." Katar continued, offering her his hand. "I’m Prince Katar, and I am in your debt."

Kendra gasped, jumping to her feet. "My Lord! I'm terribly sorry, I meant no disrespect. I had no idea . . .”

“None has been taken." He answered, rising with her, "Please sit down, and you look exhausted. You must have been traveling day and night to reach us so quickly."

This was more than Kendra had bargained for. Why hadn't Tya warned her? Taking her seat again, she tried to suppress her growing anxiety and desperate urge to flee. What would the Prince do if he discovered who she was? "I've just come down from the Northern Colony," She forced herself to answer. "I'm used to traveling fast and light."

"You are quite young. You must have begun your studies at a very early age." Katar answered, mistaking her distress for exhaustion.

"I have a very strong healing strength, it surfaced early." She glanced down at the table as Eades placed a steaming bowl of stew in front of her. "I would like to apologize for ignoring you on my arrival . . .”

"You did exactly as I would have had you do, ignore the formalities and save Bosen's life. You've shown a true dedication to your craft."

"I wish I could promise he will survive, but only time will allow for his recovery. He must gain strength before I can heal his broken bones. Although I have stopped the blood loss, he is still under risk of infection. He was lucky it was not a female. Their claws hold poison this time of the year. He would have been gone in less than an hour." Kendra relaxed, realizing he either did not know who she was.

"Is he in a healing sleep?"

"No, I’ve taken away his pain but I haven't induced the sleep. Not until he awakens and eats something, he has to gain strength so the healing can continue. The healing power comes from within me, but his body must be strong enough to withstand the physical drain that accompanies the fusion of bone. My powers simply encourage his body system to heal itself. To rush the process would put both our lives in jeopardy."

"I understand, and if you’re not too exhausted . . . I'm afraid we have another gentleman I would ask you to see. He is in his late-sixties and the ride was very difficult for him. He collapsed shortly after we arrived. I'm fairly certain he is simply over tired from the excitement and rushed return. However, I would feel much better if you looked in on him."

“Of course, Your Highness.” Rising stiffly as she answered him, Kendra waited for the Prince to lead the way.

Hanlin was still sleeping soundly when they entered his room. Moving to his bedside Kendra slipped the palm of her hand under the back of his neck. "He is exhausted from the ordeal and I suspect the long journey to the lodge. He needs complete bed rest; I will put him into a healing sleep. He'll wake up tomorrow evening and need a hardy meal. Then he should be fine." Kendra smiled up at Katar noticing how handsome he was. His golden hair, deep blue eyes and square jaw were very appealing with his large muscular frame.

"Then we should return to our meal." Katar smiled back relieved.

Announcing the good report Hanlin received as they reentered the dining area off the main room, Katar and Kendra took their seats and began to eat. Cap returned with a bottle of port and poured them each a glass. He hesitated an instant at Kendra's glass before filling it as well.

"It's good to know someone will have the chance to eat all that sraeb meat we put in the freezers." Cap smiled at Kendra's young face. "After three kills, the cold storage is full. Who knows when the next party will come along?" Seating himself across from Eades and Kendra, Cap helped himself to the large bowl of stew. Turning his attention to Kendra, he decided to find out how someone so young was able to convince the Empathic Elders to let her travel so deep into the mountains alone. "Kendra, it’s my understanding that healers usually reach their mid-twenties before completing their studies at the Institute."

"If you include the apprentice program, yes." Kendra answered glancing up from her meal.

"Oh, I see you’re an apprentice then." Cap answered slightly confused.

"No, I completed my studies at the age of 13; my apprenticeship lasted only 18 months instead of 3 years. I've been healing for over 5 years."

"You look much younger than 19 years old." Cap added not completely sure she was telling the truth.

"Twenty, just this last week.” She announced proudly, meeting his eyes as the annoyance returned.

"You must be a very intelligent girl to have gone through the instruction so quickly and at such a young age." Katar interrupted, unsure why Cap was interrogating the young girl.

"My parents encouraged my inclination for healing, which appeared in my early school years." Kendra answered glaring at Cap, feeling as if the tall Commander was challenging her competency.

"They should be commended for their wisdom.” Katar added frowning at the pair, catching Kendra’s attention as she turned to face him.

"How did Tya know we were going to need you?" Cap continued, not ready to surrender his questioning.

“Tya had a vision, in her sleep, that Bosen was killed by a sraeb. She is my cousin, came to me at the Institute to ask for my help. Having just traveled through this area myself and being family, I agreed to come." Kendra tore her eyes from Katar and turned back to the annoying Commander.

"The sraebs are out early this year. Traveling as you were, you're lucky to have made it.” Cap scolded her, surprised by the feeling of protectiveness that suddenly rushed through him. His thoughts formed the beginning of a serious lecture on the dangers of mountain travel, which someone should have, long ago, taught to this innocent young lady.

Kendra sensed the lecture and said, "Traveling alone in these mountains is not a new experience for me. The Northern colony is deep within the Alps. We have no barriers like the city walls of Borel to separate us from the forest creatures. I have learned to take care of myself."

Once again Cap found Kendra's big brown eyes glaring at him. Smiling at her, he produced her dirk from his pocket and deposited it on the table before her saying, "So you've learned a lot about living in the mountains. Didn't anyone tell you a bow is the appropriate weapon for self-defense in Treborel?"

"I wasn't going to use that on a Sraeb." Came Kendra’s threatening tone in response. In spite of his demeaning attitude she found that she was beginning to like this outspoken Commander.

Katar and Eades exchanged questioning looks, each lost in the conversation, wondering what had happened when the two met on the trail.

"Well you're not returning on your own," Cap ordered, smiling at her insinuation. "Eades is Captain of the Queen's Guard. He's sent for a small team of soldiers. They will escort you and Bosen back to The Institute. He should be ready to travel in a few days."

"Perhaps," Kendra answered, not objecting to help escorting the injured man. "The rest of you are not returning?"

"No, we're heading through the Chasm into Lon Tesse." Eades gruff voice answered as he rose from the table. Grabbing the empty bowls before him, he headed back to the galley.

Cap rose and turned his attention to Katar. "Now that our travel plans have been established. I'd like a word with our future Sovereign. We have a new foreign policy to discuss.” Eades grunted from the kitchen at the remark. Rounding the table, Cap gestured toward the loft, over Bosen's sleeping form. "Your Grace?"

Ignoring him, Katar smiled at Kendra and excused himself. Walking past Cap, he headed for the loft steps. "Why is it every time you say that phrase, it sounds like an insult?" Katar said over his shoulder.

"I always say it with the utmost reverence, Your Greatness." Cap answered moving quickly ahead of him and bowing awkwardly at the base of the wooden steps.

"You know, I wouldn't take that from anyone else." Katar growled, trying to hide his amusement.

"I never knew you felt that way." Cap smiled and winked at Kendra before he turned to follow Katar up the steps.

A grin of defeat covered Katar's face as he shook his head at the top of the stairs. Taking a seat on one of the two single beds, Katar started the conversation before Cap had the chance to begin the rush of never-ending questions saying, “You want to know what happened in the ravine."

"I just can't figure out how Bosen managed to survive, if a Sraeb had such a good grip on him. It did a lot of damage; there were teeth marks on the front and the back of his shoulder. The creature had him in its jaws. How did he get away?" Cap said as he sat on the end of the second bed across from Katar and pulled off his boots. "Did it happen like Connor said? It came out of nowhere?"

"I'm not sure I was up on the ridge checking our position. I left them at the bottom, looking for tracks. When I returned, they were deeper into the trees. I followed their trail, but before I could reach them I heard Bosen scream. When I got there, Bosen was free and swinging a tree limb with all his might. The sraeb was a good 8 or 9 feet in length, with a bolt buried deep in its chest. Bosen must have been real close when he fired, but the shot was too low. I figured Connor was dead. There was no sign of him. So, I started shooting." Katar's expression turned to a scowl as he continued. "When it was over and I was working on Bosen, Connor appeared out of nowhere. That bastard had the nerve to compliment me on the kill. He just stood by and watched the whole thing, claiming that Bosen wanted to handle it himself."

"Do you think Connor would have stepped in if you hadn't shown up?" Cap asked, already knowing the answer.

"Connor didn't give a damn whether Bosen lived or died and he didn't try to hide it."

"Do you think he was too scared after what happened last fall? “ Cap asked trying to make sense of it.

"I don't know, maybe. It doesn't matter now." Katar answered deep in thought.

Cap nodded and added, "We'll find out in a day or so, when Bosen's able to talk." He yawned, lay back onto the pillow and folded his arms behind his head.

"If he lives, " Katar countered softly. “ On the way back here, holding him in my arms, all I could think about was Tya and the boys. She's badgered me from the day we met to bring a healer along on these hunts. If Bosen dies, I will be my fault entirely and she’ll know it."

"His Royal Highness, Prince Katar, Heir to the throne of Treborel, is frightened by a chubby little Empath?" Cap teased as his eyes closed. Receiving no response, he raised his head, and glanced over at his somber friend. Seeing the pain in his eyes, Cap sat up, his hopeful mood subdued. "Bosen’s going to be alright, Katar. It wasn't your fault. You couldn't have known that Connor wasn't going to back up Bosen. And if it’s any consolation, I would have given him much worse than you did. Connor should have stepped in and helped him. He deserved a lot more than what you gave him." Staring off into the distance, Katar remained silent.

Making one last effort, Cap decided to take a different approach. “Alright, if Tya comes looking for you, I promise I'll protect you. I'll slay the monstrous beast before she reaches you."

Looking over at Cap with an amused yet annoyed expression, Katar answered. "You know Cap, I hate to admit it but I'm going to have to start taking your warnings more seriously.”

"Meaning you’ll hang on my every word. “ Cap smiled.

"Not exactly.” Katar answered, grinning at his friend. Rising from the bed, Katar picked up the folded blanket that lay across its foot and headed back down the stairs. Cap stared after him, concern filling his face. Intending to sleep on the long sofa not far from Bosen, Katar was surprised to find Kendra there, sound asleep. He wanted to be near his injured friend and to be the first to greet Commander Connor should he choose to return. Katar covered Kendra with his blanket and settled down in the high back chair before the fireplace. A short while later Cap woke to the sound of Kendra's voice coaxing Bosen to eat.

He rose and went to her aid as Kendra implored Bosen, "Bosen, you have to eat. You have a fever from the infection I want to heal you, but you’re too weak, please take a bite.” Still Bosen refused, turning weakly away from her. Noticing Prince Katar as he reached her side, Kendra turned and offered him the bowl of herbal broth that Cap had prepared. "Perhaps you could convince him. He's still not out of danger. "

Taking her seat on the edge of the bed, Katar spoke gently, “You have to eat, Bosen. I can't guarantee it won't taste like dung, because Cap made it. But you've got to try." The pale blacksmith shook his head weakly and turned away once more. "Think of Tya and the boys Bosen. What will they do without you?" Katar tried to convince him of how close to death he was. Still Bosen would not eat. Katar continued more forcefully. "Do you want to die? Because that's what you’re doing, killing yourself. If you don't regain your strength, Kendra can't cure the infection and you will die.”

"I can't, my stomach is too weak. It won’t stay down." Bosen weakly refused.

"You've got no choice.” Cap's voice came from behind Katar, he added, “Kendra, get a mug from the kitchen.” Katar rose, letting Cap have a try at the Bosen. Seating himself, Cap bent low over Bosen, stopping mere inches from his face. "You’re stomachs upset because you are dehydrated. It will feel better once you get some fluid in you. I am the one who has to tell Tya if you die. I'm not going to tell her that you died because you wouldn't eat." Cap explained firmly.

When Kendra returned with a large mug, Cap poured a small portion of the warm broth from the bowl into it and held it to Bosen's lips. "I’m not kidding Bosen. Drink this, now, or I'll force it down your throat. "

"It won't stay," Bosen protested weakly.

"Try." Cap answered softly, still holding the liquid to his lips.

Bosen obeyed then turned to wretch over the side of the bed. "Once more," Cap encouraged, holding the cup to Bosen's quivering lips. Again he took in the broth and spewed its contents.

Kendra stepped forward and lightly pressed her hand against Bosen’s stomach. "Try again.” She urged softly, nodding to Cap.

This time the herbal broth stayed in his stomach. Encouraged, Cap coaxed him to take more. As Kendra cleaned the mess beside the bed, Bosen emptied the mug and fell quickly back asleep, exhausted. Returning to the galley, Kendra collected her small bag of herbs and examined it. Finding it lacking enough of the medicine to make another batch, she headed toward the door. "I shouldn't be gone long. If his fever worsens, holler for me, I won't be far." Kendra announced as she moved through the door. "I need more herbs to make another broth before he awakens.”

Rising from Bosen's bedside Cap turned to Katar, concerned. "Do you think we should let her go out in the middle of the night alone?"

"She travelled for nearly three days and nights alone just to reach us." Katar answered, wondering if Cap had become smitten by the young Empath without even realizing it.

"Do you think I should go with her?" Cap's gaze went to the lodge's threshold.

"Do you want to?" Katar said, grinning at his friend knowingly.

Turning back puzzled, Cap stared at him. Then, as a smile broke out on his unshaven face, he turned to follow, grabbing his bow as he headed through the door. He glanced around in the darkness and caught a glimpse of Kendra as she disappeared around the side of the lodge. He quickly followed.

A warm breeze touched the tree tops, sending the night's shadows dancing along the log wall of the lodge. Finding Kendra kneeling beside the front of the small bathhouse, Cap stopped beside her and said, “If you describe what plants you're looking for, maybe I can help.” He smiled down at her, watching the shadows caress her long, dark brown hair.

Kendra glanced up, her expression softening. His ease with Bosen had impressed her, in spite of his overbearing attitude. He truly cared about the people around him. Pointing to the edge of the building she explained, "See that fern-like plant near the corner? I need its roots. "

As Cap moved to dig up the plant, Kendra finished cutting the tips of the herb she had been working with. "I've got to find one other herb. It usually grows beneath the large evergreens." Kendra moved past him, glancing around the corner of the bathhouse. Having used his large hunting knife to dig up the plant, Cap rose and presented her with a handful of roots. Untying the small pouch from her belt, she gently placed them inside with the other cuttings.

"There's a clearing near here surrounded by giant evergreens." Cap nodded toward the opposite side of the bath house, away from the lodge. “We should get some light.” He added.

Heading back to the lodge, Cap collected a lantern while Kendra asked Katar to prepare a meat broth with the herbs she had already collected. As Katar headed into the kitchen the pair moved back out into the darkness of the woods, toward the clearing. As they moved deeper into the trees, Cap handed Kendra the light and allowed her to precede him. Cap smiled in admiration as he watched Kendra’s slender silhouette glide through the darkness. Cap stiffened, as she turned back to him with a look of alarm. Moving quickly to her side, he glanced around seeing nothing.

"A Sraeb.” She whispered, as a shadow flittered across her eyes. She pointed off to the right. A few meters distant he could see the large, sleeping creature, nestled in the tall grass of the small clearing they had been looking for.

"Did you bring your knife?" Cap asked quickly, reaching for the crossbow on his back.

"What?" Kendra stared at him in disbelief.

He smiled mischievously and said, "I thought you might like to show me how well you can defend yourself."

"Alright, Woodsman. If you're so skilled with these creatures, then how about fetching me the herbs it's sleeping so comfortably on." She answered, insulted by his smart reply.

Following her gaze, Cap squinted in the windy blackness. Spying the patch of herbs, he berated himself for his foolish teasing and headed for the clearing.

"No, wait!" Kendra whispered urgently. She had not really expected him to obey her command. Kendra fought back the vision of what would happen if the sraeb awoke. Not allowing the growing fear to rise any further, she bit her lip and watched.

Glancing back, Cap motioned for her to stay still. Moving around the edge of the clearing to where the sraeb slept under a large evergreen, he pulled his laser pistol from his belt and stepped forward. Gazing across the clearing to Kendra's shadowed form, he flashed a wicked smile. Cursing him under her breath, she prayed that the fool didn't get himself killed. Kneeling down on one knee, his pistol ready, Cap snatched a handful of the leafy herb and stuffed it inside the front of his shirt. Not sure of how much Kendra needed, he repeated the process several times. As he started to rise he noticed a small thin object protruding from the back of the beast's shoulder, a crossbow bolt.

Realizing that an injured sraeb was ten times more likely to attack a slow moving human over the quick Elk it normally ate, he leveled the pistol at the creature's skull. At this distance, the beast would die instantly. As his finger squeezed on the trigger, Cap noticed a slight movement. Jumping back quickly, expecting the massive animal to rise, Cap waited. When the animal remained still, he realized the movement had come from three small forms nestled against the sraeb. Cubs!

If he killed their mother, they would starve or fall prey to another sraeb. Hesitating, Cap knew there was no possibility of raising the cubs in captivity. Sraebs grew crazed in the first few hours; even in specialized surroundings they would throw themselves against the walls of the confinement over and over again choosing death over imprisonment. The answer was clear. He would have to kill them all. He cursed the idiot that had attacked the female and with a crossbow no less. Only a fool would shoot a large female at this time of the year before checking for offspring.

Glancing over the sraeb to where Kendra nervously waited, he hated to do this in front of her. She would most probably hate him for it. Then it occurred to him, perhaps she could help. Motioning for her to come forward he waited silently as she approached. One glance at the wounded sraeb and Kendra motioned for him to move back. Unsure whether he had made the right decision; Cap slowly did as she asked his weapon ready. Bending over the large creature, Kendra gently dug her fingers into the thick, dark, gray fur at the base of its neck.

Then she slowly placed her other hand lightly on the top of the beast's head. The animal reared instantly, roaring with alarm. Cap shouted for Kendra to run as he desperately tried to locate her in the darkness. The cubs screamed in fear and disappeared into the turbulent forest. Holding on with all her might, Kendra called upon her 'strength' to calm the animal. In one swift movement, the creature fell silently at Cap's feet. Climbing off the beast, Kendra sighed with relief.

Cap appeared next to her, and asked urgently, “Are you alright?"

"Yes, I'm fine." Kendra answered, casually turning to examine the beast.

"Did you know that was going to happen?" Cap demanded, grabbing her arm and spinning her around to face him.

“I wasn't sure . . ." Kendra started to explain.

"Why didn't you warn me? I nearly blew the sraeb out from under you." Cap snapped at her. The incident had frightened him more than he cared to admit.

"It's alright." She smiled up at him and reached for her boot. “I brought my knife." She waved the weapon in his face as her laughter filled the silent clearing. Turning back to the sraeb she pulled the bolt from its shoulder and handed it to Cap ignoring his angry scowl. "The wound is pretty deep, she must have tried to get it out herself and drove it in until it struck bone.” Kendra explained, still smiling as she placed a healing touch on the wound. "She'll sleep until morning. The cubs should be back by then." Turning back to Cap, her amusement disappeared as she noticed how pale he had become. "Are you alright?"

"Do you realize, one swipe of its claw and it could have taken your head off? “ He answered quietly, realizing how pretty she was.

"If you hadn't insisted on pulling that little prank of yours, I never would have known about the injury. She was in such a deep sleep, I couldn't feel her pain." Kendra scolded him.

"I could have taken care of it myself. I just didn't want to leave the cubs to starve." Cap answered, shoving the bolt in his belt.

"When are you going to get it into your thick head that I'm not some helpless little girl that needs your protection!” Kendra spat, tired of his paternal attitude. "If I didn't think I could handle it, I wouldn't have tried!"

They stood glaring angrily at one another for several seconds before Cap conceded with a grin. "I surrender. You obviously knew what you were doing. We're both still alive." He held out hand as a peace offering. "Just give me a little warning next time, okay?"

"Are you going to make any more cracks about my dirk?" Kendra frowned, her attitude softening.

"I'll do my best to keep my mouth shut." Cap promised, still waiting for her to take his hand.

Placing her hand in his, Kendra smiled up at him, relieved they had come to an understanding, "Will you help me find this clearing in the morning? I want to make sure the cubs return."

"First thing after breakfast.” He promised with a smile.

Still holding hands they left the clearing and returned to the lodge. Katar was asleep in the high backed chair and a meat broth was simmering on the stove. Cap insisted on finishing the broth while Kendra caught some much needed sleep.

As dawn arrived, Bosen woke, strong enough to have the infection healed. This began a pattern of eating, then working to heal his broken bones every few hours. Cap had designated himself as Kendra’s assistant, attending to her every need. Katar watched, amused by his friend's infatuation with the young Empath. He’d never seen him like this before. When Cap was near Enda, he stumbled over himself, clumsy and nervous. It wasn't so with Kendra. As they worked together to heal Bosen, Cap became more confident and relaxed. The more time they spent together, the more Cap showed his true self.

That evening Hanlin appeared, rested and hungry. Cap and Kendra were inseparable. By the end of the third day, Bosen was fully conscious and anxious to tell the others what had happened that day in the ravine. Kendra left them alone and went to clean the dinner dishes so they could talk. Able to sit up, Bosen he ate the hot stew Eades had made and told his story between mouthfuls to them.

"Commander Connor was asking a lot of questions about Borel, Eades and the Queen's Guard." Bosen began. "I answered some of them. Then he began to get specific I couldn't understand what he really wanted, much less answer most of his questions."

"What was he asking?” Katar frowned.

"At first, he was just curious about the city patrols and the sraeb. Were there any problems with them so close to the city walls? Then he started asking about the night patrols and the harbor fleet. I told him I'm just a blacksmith. Yes, my father was the Kings Valet and I grew up in the palace but I wasn’t into politics and such. He didn't seem to understand, the questions just kept coming. Finally, I told him he should be asking Eades those questions, not me. I also said that if he didn't lay off, I'd start asking some questions of my own." Exhausted, Bosen leaned back on the pillow as perspiration began to bead on his balding head.

"Why don't you rest awhile? We can finish this later." Cap suggested.

"No, Cap, it's too important. I may not be the smartest guy here, but I love Treborel and you and Katar are like brothers to me. Commander Connor has something specific planned; I may not be able to figure out what it is. But the three of you, with your military background should." Bosen pulled himself back up onto the pillows and looked to Katar for his support.

"Let’s hear what he has to say. “ Katar answered quietly. Eades nodded his consent, concerned about Connor's inquiries into Borel’s defenses.

Bosen looked back to Cap, noting his concern. "I'm alright." Bosen smiled weakly at him and continued. "After my challenge, he got real quiet. We found some more tracks and narrowed in on a big male in the middle of a thicket. Commander Connor went around to the left and I took the right. I was going to flush it out toward him. Only Connor took a quick shot into the brush with that damn crossbow of his and sent the sraeb right into me. I figured he panicked. Well, it was on me before I could react. Its jaws dug into my shoulder for only a second. I managed to reach my pistol and fired point blank into its side. It turned and crushed the weapon as I held it. I’m pretty sure it was going for my entire arm but somehow it missed. The shot just infuriated it; it threw me about three meters. I just kept thinking that Connor would snap out of it and help me, but he never came. I knew you weren’t far Katar, so I grabbed the nearest thing and started swinging hoping to keep it off me long enough for you to arrive. I don't remember anything after that." Glancing back at Katar with a tired smile, he added, "I understand I owe you my life. It’s not the first time and I’m sure it won’t be the last. Eades told me about the ruckus at the base ramp. It sounds like the Commander wasn't very apologetic about sending that sraeb at me."

"You think Commander Connor drove the sraeb in your direction on purpose?" Hanlin asked from his chair at the side of the bed.

"I don't see him standing here telling me otherwise." Bosen answered, angrily.

Cap turned on Katar, unable to control his fury. "I told you he was dangerous. He's an evil bastard! I say we find him and force him to explain himself. For all we know, that maniac could be planning an invasion."

Katar answered him calmly, hiding the feelings of apprehension building inside. "William is too afraid of his own shadow to ever conceive of an aggressive action. Besides, Treborel has proven its defensive capabilities. The canyon from the harbor and the Chasm are heavily armed and patrolled from above, constantly. They are the only entrances into Treborel. No one aggressive force is going to get through either access alive.” Katar explained confident Treborel was in no danger.

"Maybe it's not William. Maybe Connor is working for someone else." Cap growled, his dislike of the Commander turned to hatred as the vision of Bosen and Katar fighting for their lives flashed through his mind.

"This conversation is over. I don't want to hear any more talk about Connor. As far as I'm concerned, it doesn't matter what he or anyone else has planned. We've been warned.” Placing his hand on Cap’s shoulder, Katar added, "Bosen survived, that's what's important. Whatever Connor is up to, whether he's working for William or not, we'll be ready."

"I’m going back to Borel when the soldiers arrive." Eades spoke quietly from the end of the bed, "I think the Queen should be informed. I want to increase security at the palace."

"I'll contact the palace on the Comm link, and I'll have the patrols increased at the Harbor and the Chasm. “ Katar confirmed, and headed for the galley.

Hanlin rose slowly and followed him saying, "I believe it is time to approach King William. He should be informed of your falling out with Commander Connor. It would be wise to settle on an unbiased explanation, for now. Possibly, a misunderstanding?"

Katar spun to face him and said angrily, “Perhaps William should be informed of his Commander's lack of compassion, and our concern over Bosen's interrogation."

"It would seem wise not to stir the fire." Hanlin returned, softly.

Sighing, Katar frowned at his Advisor, knowing that Hanlin was right. Although he did not believe Treborel was threatened. He couldn't afford to offend William by slandering his Commander. Katar nodded and said, "Alright, put through a Comm link to Bantor. I'll try to come up with a plausible explanation as to why we abandoned his Commander in the middle of the mountains."

Arriving with more stew, Kendra ordered Bosen to rest. At Hanlin's insistence, they moved Bosen into the Advisor's small room at the back of the lodge. There the soothing seclusion would encourage him to sleep.

Hanlin’s attempts at Communication with King William were unsuccessful. He was consistently told William was unavailable due to illness. During this time, Bosen grew stronger; Cap and Kendra grew even closer. Katar became confused over their relationship. Every time he saw them together, they would be deep into an argument. Cap was determined to teach Kendra how to use the bow. She refused, stating that Empaths didn't use weapons. That would send Cap howling about her small dirk. Then they would disappear into the woods in a heated discussion, only to return an hour or two later, laughing and holding hands.

The female sraeb had recovered and her cubs had returned. Every afternoon the two would hike back to the clearing and check on the small family's progress. Each enjoyed the cub’s antics and the debates they managed to initiate at a moment’s notice. Kendra found she agreed with Cap's point of view on nearly all subjects except Commander Connor. When a small garrison of Eades' soldiers arrived, Kendra decided to spend her last night with Cap trying to ease his hatred of the Bantorian.

She asked him to walk back to the clearing to check on the Sraeb and her cubs one last time. As the gray sky darkened overhead, they found the sraeb and her cubs settling down for the night. They slept soundly on top of the same herb patch as five nights ago. They moved back toward the lodge as Cap slid his long arm around Kendra's slender shoulders and pulled her to his side.

"Will you be staying at the Institute?” He asked, casually, not wanting her to notice how reluctant he was to continue on to the Summit.

"Yes, for several months, I'm going to be training to teach the young Empathic students, winter survival in the mountains. The Elders have decided to establish a new colony, in the Southern Mountains. While they are waiting for approval from Queen Sari, there are many preparations to be made.” She answered, with enthusiasm, “I'm hoping they will choose me to be a senior survival trainer for the new colony."

"You're going to teach Survival Training?" Cap stared at her in surprise.

"I'll teach the Empath’s way of Survival, to students in their early teens, knowing when to run and when to stand and fight. A bow and laser rifles are weapons of death, I'll be teaching defensive techniques, how to avoid potentially dangerous situations." Kendra smiled, moving to sit on a fallen tree.

“What would you call what happened to Bosen? If Katar hadn’t killed the sraeb, they would both be dead.” Cap frowned, still believing her ignorant of the ways of the wilderness.

“If they hadn’t been looking to kill a sraeb they wouldn’t have gotten into trouble.” Kendra answered, sternly. “If you know the mountains and the animals, how they react, what they eat and how they hunt you can avoid them.”

“What about man? Can you tell from a distance whether a group of hunters is truly what they seem? Or if they are looking for something more than meat to satisfy their appetite?” Cap challenged. “Do you simply avoid all that you see?”

“No, you trust your judgment. There is always a chance that a person or animal will attack unprovoked. Take Commander Connor for example. I think he became frightened and fired prematurely. When the sraeb attacked Bosen perhaps the Commander froze, but was too embarrassed to admit it. Even at risk of abandonment, he was too proud to tell the truth.”

“If he were a normal person I think you’re theory would be solid, but he’s not. There’s something seriously wrong with him. That wasn’t the first time Connor turned his back on a fellow hunter. Also, he’s no coward. I wish he were, but that’s just not how it happened. He sent that sraeb into Bosen because he wanted him dead, not because he got scared.” Cap felt a surge of anger rush through him and he rose, turning back toward the lodge.

“Cap, wait,” Kendra jumped up moving after him. “I don’t want to argue. This is the last night we have . . .”

“That’s right, and I don’t want to spend it talking about Connor.” Cap turned back so sharply, Kendra had to jump aside to avoid crashing into him.

"Alright, no more talk of the Commander," Kendra answered, softly. Taking his hand she led him back to sit on the fallen tree. "I want to talk more about not being able to avoid every aggressive situation. I can't promise that every Empath would defend himself with a weapon. I can tell you that I carry my dirk so that I do have some sort of protection but not against animals. I don't want a weapon that I could use easily or quickly. I don't want to be able to kill anyone or anything without using every possible means to avoid it. It's too easy to kill from a distance. Empaths learn to disarm any man or beast with calm thoughts and rational words."

"What if that's not enough?" Cap asked, releasing his anger.

"It always has been. You forget Empaths can calm any living creature with their touch and their voice as well. It is a simple matter of using ‘the strength' to reinforce your feeling of good will and forthright intent.” Kendra explained, encouraged by his interest.

"I hope you're right, I'd hate to see you in a situation with a crazed sraeb. If you're soothing doesn't work, it would have you for dinner.” Cap's eyes betrayed the tenderness of his reprimand.

"Human beings have been plagued throughout the ages with situations that they were unprepared to handle. We are still thriving; the Empathic Community is at its largest since the beginning. Our understanding and insight helped us to survive."

"When was the beginning? Who are your ancestors?" Cap asked, recalling ancient legends about the healers' origins, his anger forgotten.

"Those are difficult questions to answer." Kendra sighed. "To tell you the truth, I'm not sure myself. The Elders have the records of Empathic History hidden. The colony was established over 700 years ago, before that I really couldn't tell you anything. Our history was entrusted to the Elders, hundreds of years ago. There are rumors that some dark secret is being kept hidden. Maybe we're descended from thieves or murderers." Kendra smiled, her eyes sparkling with mischief. "The scrolls probably don't even exist. I think the Elders are just too ashamed to admit they have no records of who we are or where we truly come from. And if they are real, who's to say they're not just a bunch of stories some grandfather told his grandchildren on a cold winter night around an ancient fire."

"Your practical attitude amazes me. I expected some wild yarn about sorcerers and magical spells. I should have known you wouldn't have believed in those stories. You're too independent and clear-minded to fall for such nonsense." Cap smiled, taking her hand in his. "I would still like to teach you to use the bow. However, I will just have to get used to the idea of your wandering around the wilderness without any protection."

"Except my 'strength'."

"Except your 'strength'."

The next morning Cap and Kendra said a reluctant good-bye and the two parties headed in separate directions. Kendra and Eades took two of the soldiers and headed back toward Borel with Bosen. Katar, Cap and the others headed west for the Chasm and Lon Tesse. Cap's mind was full of Kendra, her slender figure, long flowing hair and the way she always smelled of fresh herbs. Katar's thoughts went to Bantor, King William and Hanlin's unanswered communications.