The Last Lands

CHAPTER 22 NO TRUST

The five-hour walk was a lonely one.

The whisper in his head had begun to dilute itself. Through the jungle for almost fifteen-miles, there was only the sound of his shoes on dry earth and dead vegetation and the buzzing of the flies, drawn by the ample coatings of blood that adorned him and the carcass he carried. He stopped twice, once to feed on the raw rabbit meat and drink, the other to relieve himself. He ate on principal, knowing he had no real need for it. He had fed greedily, and would be satiated for at least a week, provided he could stay out of trouble. Though the energy fulfilled him in a way raw meat and water never could, it was still nothing compared tot he feast from the metal monster. He clenched his fingers as the memory passed through his body, lightning through his veins. What he would give to taste that kind of energy again.

The sun had begun to fall by the time he saw the small wooden palisade of Journey's End from on top of the hill. The Jungle was behind him, with only small stretches reaching for the coast. The deep blue of the sea was barely visible from the raised cliffs that slowly descended into a small valley, where the settlers had built their establishments. The wind rushed to meet him with clumsy hands, bristling against his torn cloak, threatening to topple him while he carried the carcass. The sea began to lose its shimmer as the sky blushed an early orange.

As he descended the hill, he saw the crude wall built alongside the deepening cliff was manned by two guards, as always. Journey's End was quite a bit smaller than Promise Coast, barely even three months old, but the workers had made good progress. The majority of the burgeoning town was built in between a corridor formed as the basalt cliffs ran towards a small cove. The path to the coast went up and then downwards, and Kad could see some of the crude, wooden buildings already jettisoning smoke. The largest was the inn, The Crow's Nest, the first building erected and the only to be two stories, so far, nestled in the very centre. Some merchants had stalls and shops, but most buildings were more dormitories for workers. The surrounding area had been cleared of trees in a fifty foot radius.

Kad jogged down the hill spiritedly, his body barely beginning to feel the strain of tiredness. Few people were outside of the walls as the sun dragged itself down to the sea. There were stragglers returning with bundles of logs and sticks. One of the Komodos- Saurians with dark brown scales, thick necks and forked, purple tongues- carried an orange deer on his shoulder, two arrows still sticking out from its side. As Kad walked with the cat on his back, he saw the two guards lift their heads up from their conversation. They were in mismatching leather armour, each armed with a spear and a sword. One was a Satyr, chewing something heavily before spitting it to the ground. The other was a crouching Echidnid- Mammalians with black fur that turned to quills on their heads and necks, ending with sharp, white points. The guards eyed the Consumer suspiciously as he passed with the carcass on his back that had begun to turn ripe in the heat.

“Boys.” He said playfully as he passed.

The two guards watched him silently as Kad entered the small town. An answer of sorts to the pompous clientele of Promise Coast, Journey's End was for the Everyman. Here sailors drank heavily and spat on the floor without thought, ladies of the night of every known species loitered around the tavern. Fights were common amongst the partakers of Ship-Shine. The sun began to vanish behind the ocean, leaving trails of gold and crimson behind it. More hills dropped, following the perpendicular lines of basalt that lead towards the sea. Several sail-ships rested here, anchored remotely, without a proper dock to see them in. Row-boats and skiffs loitered by the rocky coves, the waves brushing against them. While at Promise Coast, Kad always felt the eyes watching him, the suspicions under breaths they thought he could not hear. They were still here at Journey's End, but he did not feel them so much.

Not far from The Battered Oak was a butcher shop, where the Ogrin, in his white hat and apron, happily paid the Komodos in front of Kad several silver legacies for the animal carcass he brought in. The stall was a long wooden counter, with a metal sheet attached tot he top. There were several counters behind where his apprentices worked on carving animals and fish. There were some large white chest freezers behind them, and several strung up rabbits. The smell of death and meat was pungent to anyone, but for someone with as sensitive smell as a Consumer, it was nauseating As soon as his apprentices had taken away the deer, Kad threw the body of the Savanna-Cat down in front of him.

“Mm? What's this?” The Ogrin said, rubbing at his flabby, blue chin.

“A cat from the savanna.” Kad said, feeling relieved to be free of his cargo.

“I see that.” The butcher said, lifting a leg up to inspect the wound. “How long?”

“A few hours.” Kad said, leaning on the counter. “Five, six at the most.”

“Mm? It's already beginning to turn. Got a lovely coat on it, though.”

“Yeah, it's nice. Soft.”

The Ogrin inspected the head of the cat, opening its mouth and admiring its fierce fangs.

“Give ya fifty legacies for it.”

“You don't think it's worth a dynasty?”

“Mighta been if you got it here sooner. Won't be able to keep it fresh that long out here.”

“You have any idea how far away the savanna is?”

The Ogrin shrugged. Kad drummed his fingers on the counter, as flies began to crawl. He heard the apprentices waving violently at the constant onslaught of the insect armies as they tried to go about their work.

Clack.

“Say, you think you can save that fur for me?”

“You want it back, mm?” The Ogrin said thoughtfully. “I'll give ya twenty legacies for the meat, and skin it for ya too, howzat?”

“Make it twenty-five.”

“Mm? Sold.”

The Ogrin gripped Kad's outstretched hand firmly.

“Come back in a hour, we'll have it ready for ya.”

By the time the lanterns had come out, Kad had come to a small wooden hut, filled with goods and eccentricities. Unlike many of the other places here, this hollowed out hut had grown from being just a stall into an actual business. As he stepped inside, twenty-five legacies richer, the Crocodilian with the crooked back snarled curiously. He was adorned in a red and green cloak, with a black and gold hat. Rings and jewels adorned his scaled hands. He released a wild grin, showing that many teeth were either missing or replaced with gold.

“Good evening, sir.” He said, watching Kad with interest. “How may I help you?”

His voice was deep and wizened, his green eyes were wary, but the slit-like pupils were always quick. He pronounced his words with zeal, as if they were morsels of meat and he devoured them through speech. Kad silently closed the door, the smell of damp wood and metal reaching him. The room was barely lit as Kad stepped through shadow, revealing himself. The Crocodilian stood with his crooked stance behind a sturdy wooden counter. An array of weapons were hung up behind him, on the counter was a painted Orkan skull. Incense was burning below them, next to his selection of toothbrushes and hygiene products. Kad stood before the counter, smelling the reek of alcohol and smoke on his breath. White Spice was very illegal in New Peridios, but clearly that did not translate as such in Journey's End. Kad grabbed his bundle of weapons, and carefully laid it out in front of the merchant. Several daggers and the hatchet. The Crocodilian inspected them closely.

“Hm, a little worn. Where did you get these?”

“Found them.” Kad said curtly. “A group of dead settlers, killed by Savanna-Cats.”

“Savanna-Cats, you say? What are those?”

“You know, they're big cats, sharp teeth.”

“Hmm, and live in the savanna, I take it?” The Crocodilian said slyly.

Kad gulped heavily, feeling his every tic being scrutinised.

“They're not in great condition, but might be able to sell them as tools. Give ya give legacies for 'em.”

“Five? They're gotta be worth five each.”

“Sorry pal. If ya looking for a better deal, I'd say go to Promise.”

Clack.

Kad gritted his teeth.

Who's to say you couldn't drain this parasite right here, right now? Guards turn a blind eye to smoking White-Spice, who cares if you took this guy's coin and left him a dried husk

Kad inhaled deeply.

Too risky, I've already got a bounty on my head, don't need to add to it.

He felt the skin tightening around his head, teeth that were beginning to itch.

Whatever you say.

“Fine. Five legacies.” Kad said reluctantly.

The Crocodilian reached into a small chest, lined neatly with rows of silver coins, and handed five over to Kad with grave delight. He dropped them into Kad's palm.

“Got something else you might want.” He said, pocketing the coins.

“Oh?”

Kad reached within the cloak, and gently pulled out the silver pendant. The Crocodilian hissed with pleasure, reaching greedily to take it. Kad did not relinquish it, as the merchant studied it closely.

“Do you know what it is?” Kad asked.

The Crocodilian continued trying to pull at the pendant as he brought it closer, his tongue briefly flashing between his teeth.

“Old silver, is it? Some sort of crest?”

“Do you know what it is?”

“No, I don't recognise it.” The Crocodillian said sadly. “I'll give you ten legacies for it.”

Kad could smell the saliva pooling in the fencer's mouth, remembering the dying Vulpine.

My brother...please...

Kad pulled back slightly, feeling the pendant hanging from his fingers.

If its a family crest, then its probably only valuable to the brother, whoever that is.

“Actually, I'll hold onto this for a while.” Kad said, pocketing the pendant.

He remained there for a few minutes, buying over-priced rations and medical supplies. By the time he had exited and reached the tailor, the jungle had grown completely dark, with only a lingering rebellion of light beyond the sea. The tailor was a stout Gold-Dvergr woman, with a stocky face, pale blue eyes, and her yellow hair tied up behind her neck. Although initially annoyed that Kad was preventing her from reaching the inn, she soon relaxed after seeing he was looking for a new cloak and linen to conceal his head. He bought dark fabric to cover his head, but was unsatisfied with the quality of the cloaks.

“If I bring you a pelt, can you make me a cloak out of it?”

“Sure, if it's good quality.” She said with some curiosity.

Half an hour later, he brought her over the freshly skinned pelt of the savanna-cat, and she stroked the fur with delight.

“It's beautiful.” She said, astonished.

“How much?”

“Call it fifty legacies, it'll take a good amount of time.”

Clack.

Fortunately, he had looted four golden dynasties and thirty seven legacies from the bandits who attacked him, although he wanted to keep as much of it for as long as possible.

Still, people seem to love that fur of yours, might be a worthy investment.

“Alright them. Fifty legacies.”

“Great!” She said, excited. “I'll start work tomorrow, might take me two days, at the least.”

Clack.

Kad hated the idea of staying within so many eyes for so long.

Still, it's been a while since you slept under a roof. Journey's End is not like Promise Coast, after all.

Eventually Kad relented, and bought himself a room at The Crow's Nest, getting used to sleeping in a cot again. The mattress and pillow was stuffed with dried grass, but the room was warm and dry. The raucous sounds of drinking and fighting eventually faded to nothing as sleep slowly consumed him.

*******************************************************************************************

He awoke with the sunrise, the dim of downstairs did not seem to quieten. Workers and hungry sailors broke his fast, but Kad still felt well satiated. He exited the stale stench of the inn and into the quiet of the morning. A chill lingered, fighting in vain against the rising heat. The feeling of a Sunday hangover seeped throughout the sleeping population and into the very foundations of the day. The sky was gloomy and the settlement was reluctant to brave it.

Kad had brought his belongings with him. He had paid for two nights with no clear directive. He had no home or purpose, but to wander the new world, alone. He still had time to kill while he waited for his cloak to be completed out of the Savanna-Cat's pelt. He sat in the outside deck of the inn with a cheap, bitter coffee. The world gradually began to wake up as a new ship anchored itself by the cove. He watched as tired travellers arrived excitedly, largely ignored or mocked by the inhabitants of Journey's End. Kad sat by his coffee for several hours, sensing and smelling the sea and sweat that seeped into their clothes. Kad was mostly ignored, save for a few stares as new arrivals immediately entered the inn for a drink and a rest, though there would surely not be enough room to accommodate. Suddenly, Kad felt something, something very familiar.

Hey, do you feel that? You know what that is?

Kad sat up with interest, feeling the aura of two weary Consumers trudging up the hill. One was young, fresh, the other felt old and strong. Kad's senses went wild, feeling their exhaustion, relief and fear. The young one was a woman, helping up her old relative. Kad could feel they shared something, something familial. They were clad in brown woollen cloaks, their eye-less faces hidden under shadow. Like him, they were shorter than many of the races of sapients from New Peridios. They each had heavy bags, which they dropped when they crested the hill. The older one gripped onto the woman's arm as he lowered himself onto one of the bags, wearily waiting for a breath. The young one watched him without seeing, but feeling great concern. Suddenly, her ears began to twitch too, and she began to smell the air. She looked towards where she could Kad was sitting, before excitedly saying something to the seated figure, who waved dismissively. Kad felt a smile form on his face.

More of our kind, at last! It's been a long time since you've smelled that scent.

Kad quickly gathered his effects, his scimitar clattering against his waist as he rose. He quickly passed meandering migrants until he reached them. The woman was of a similar age to Kad, perhaps a couple years older in her mid-twenties. She smiled warmly at Kad, who couldn't see how beautiful it was, but could feel the warmth radiating. His heart began to beat quickly, feeling the familiar welcome that could only be given from one Consumer to another.

“Good morning.” He rasped awkwardly.

“Well met, khasha.” The young woman said, bowing her head respectfully.

Khasha...it's been a while since anyone referred to you as their brethren.

Kad saw the shimmer of them, glowing a colder colour than it did to any other Sape. He grinned foolishly, but the older figure remained seated, and silent, uninterested in his khasha standing before him. An awkward silence fell between the three of them.

“What brings you here, kitua?” Kad asked the woman, invoking the ancient term for sister.

The woman was slender, as all Consumers were found to be, but not as skinny as Kad. She was slightly taller than him too, even by only an inch, typical of the sexual dimorphism of all Consumers. She work a grey, patterned veil, with white hexagons and stripes sewn into its hem. Under the thick cloak she wore a plain, brown dress. Her teeth were long and dull, revealed as she pulled apart the curtains of her lips in a smile.

“I am here, with my grandfather. Do you feel him, Poppo? There's another Consumer here!”

The grandfather snorted slightly.

“Yes, yes.” He rasped.

The elder was shorter than both of them by several inches, with a hunched back. Like his granddaughter, he also wore a patterned veil over his face, one of white and red. Long patterns reached from side to the other, and small fringes hung towards his slightly crooked nose. His teeth were browner and duller, chipped and worn.

“I apologise for my Poppo, we are tired after our long journey. I am Naika, and this is Bimi. Bimi Enkovu.”

Why does that sound familiar?

“Yes, I remember the journey myself.” Kad said with a chuckle. “I am Kad Ekisziku.”

The old man's nose began to twitch furiously, and he snarled in response.

“Yes...I thought that was you.”

“You know him, Poppo?” Naika asked earnestly.

Bimi scowled.

“Of course I know that name. Kad Ekisziku is the Consumer who murdered a councillor, and is wanted by the guardsmen.”

Naika whipped her head round, her teeth bared. Kad gulped.

Clack.

“I didn't kill him. I haven't killed anyone.” He lied defensively.

“Your involvement has still incriminated you, Ekisziku.” The old man said venomously. “As if it wasn't bad enough for one Consumer being blamed wrongfully for a murder this year, now there are two.”

Clack.

“We are innocent. It's the Guardsmen, they always want to blame us!”

“Save me your excuses, pushta. I know how these stories end.”

Kad bristled up, anger flaring through his spine and towards his teeth.

“What do you know of it?”

Bimi chuckled darkly.

“I have spent my entire life fighting for Consumer rights, pushta.”

“Don't call me that.” Kad snapped. “I am no child.”

“Then perhaps you shouldn't act like one.” Bimi said, stifling a yawn. “Come, Naika, we should find somewhere to rest.”

Naika nodded, helping her grandfather up, and checking her bags. More silence fell as Kad watched.

Clack.

“Fine.” Kad muttered, preparing to leave.

“Wait, Poppo. Maybe he can help us.”

“We don't need his help, muymum. We will be fine, and so will he.” Bimi said defiantly.

Naika sighed, resuming, looking through her bags. Kad turned, heading back towards the inn.

Don't listen to him. He's just a stubborn old man who thinks he knows everything.

Kad heard the rummaging grow in intensity, when Naika gasped in disbelief.

“Poppo, the coin pouch, I can't find it. Have you had it.”

“No, muymum. I thought you had it.” Bimi said nonchalantly.

“I can't find it, its not in any of the bags.” Naika answered desperately.

Kad returned to his table, watching as they took out all of their belongings by the gaping cliff wall, searching for their purse. Their belongings were scattered, with many sailors trodding on their clothes. One Orkan even grabbed one of their salted meat rations off of the ground, and immediately bit into it despite Naika's protests. Kad felt her desperation and despair, his anger beginning to sour.

Should we help them? The girl, at least. If it was just the old man, I would leave him to starve.

The old man tried to comfort the girl, helping to gather their belongings.

“What are we going to do? That was all of our savings!” He heard her cry.

No, this is their problem. Don't get involved.

“I told you we should have brought a Zwipe card, just in case!” She continued in dismay.

“It wouldn't have done any good anyway.” Bimi said sadly. “There aren't any machines linked up to the Hyperframe out here.”

Kad felt the coin pouch in his bag grow heavy.

None of our business. Don't think about them.

He waited, hearing the girl grow more and more distressed. Before Kad could move, she said something quickly to her poppo, and once again he waved his hand dismissively at her. She quickly turned to Kad and began to cross the path between them, darting between workers carrying lumber and tools. Kad fidgeted, unable to pretend he didn't know she was storming straight towards him.

“Hi.” She said brightly. “Sorry to bother you, we've just had a bit of a problem-”

“I know.” Kad said, harder than what he intended. “I could hear you.”

“Right.” She said, a little deflated. “Well, I'm really sorry to ask this, after my poppo was so rude to you, but...”

“No. Sorry.” Kad said curtly.

He felt the pressure begin to crush the young woman before him, but she fought against it, letting her shoulders rise back up.

“Right. Thanks anyway.”

She stalked back to her grandfather, slower this time. Guilt rushed through Kad's very existence.

This isn't right. Rude or no, they are Consumers. We have to look after them.

Kad watched as Naika reached Bimi, defeatedly gesturing pointless towards him. Bimi took her hand and laid both of his on them, whispering something reassuring.

Why? We look after each-other Kad. They need us, but we don't need them.

Still, Kad sighed sadly. The couple waited for a while, discussing slowly amongst themselves what to do next. With the hustle and bustle of the morning growing louder, he could only hear pinpricks of conversation between them, though he strained his ears to hear them. The woman exhaled heavily, letting her despair out. Meaningless comments and sneers were muttered by the trudging stream of people, but they did not react. Kad drummed his fingers on the table, trying to forget about them. He half-heartedly eavesdropped on the neighbouring tables, how sailors spoke in distaste about the increasing military and Guardsman presence in Promise Coast, how they felt an explosive rumble through the earth the other week, and many people returning to the city as the sky grew black as an omen.

Kad sighed heavily.

He went back to ten years old, alone in the underground village beneath New Peridios known as Spi'Ra. Sitting in his creaking hut in the cavernous slums on the outskirts, waiting for his father to come home, probably drunk out of his mind. If he lost badly, there would be a beating, if he won, there would be apologies and promises of a better life someday. Often, it was one than the other. He thought about his foster parents who took him after his death, saving him from starvation at the promise he did not feed and joined the Consumer community. He remembered the old leader of that group, who tried to steer him to a path of understanding and acceptance.

We have to help them.

We really don't.

Kad lazily pushed himself upwards, meandering through the crowd until he stood before the two.

“Still can't find it?” He asked, almost casually.

Bimi scoffed.

“Don't worry about us, we'll be fine.”

Naika shifted, unsure.

“You sure about that?” Kad asked.

“Yes.” Naika answered hesitantly. “We just have to think of a plan, that's all.”

Kad snorted.

“Fine, suit yourselves. I won't help if you don't want me to.”

“I already came to you to ask if you would help, you said no.” Naika hissed.

“It's hard to want to help someone when they're rude to you.”

Bimi sighed deeply.

“You're right. I'm sorry. It's easy to cranky when you're on a ship for three weeks.”

Kad chuckled lightly.

“I understand. I'm no killer, though. I came here to escape that.”

Bimi rubbed at his forehead above the cover tiredly.

“Life is hard, as a Consumer. I have faced much prejudice for simply existing, as we all have. I always hoped I could help make a better life for the younger generation, and for my muymum.”

Naika had a pained smile as Bimi rubbed her arm gently. As a large Trogg passed by, with grey skin and tusks jutting out of his bottom lip, cursing the three of them, Naika and Kad bristled, baring their teeth, but Bimi remained gentle.

“Easy, pushta. Their words are meaningless, their hatred is misguided. Reacting to it will do nothing but to prove them right.”

Kad relented, and formed a smile.

“I think I remember you saying that exact thing before.”

Bimi cooed in surprise.

“We've met before, pushta?”

“Probably about seven or eight years ago now. My foster folks made me come to the community centre, help me connect with Consumers who weren't alcoholic degenerates. I used to come by after school, especially after the bullying began.”

Bimi mused on this.

“I am sorry, pushta, I do not remember.”

“It's not personal.” Naika said lightly. “He's an old man now, aren't you poppo?”

Bimi clicked his tongue in jest, waving Naika away.

“Oh, you are cheeky muymum. Still, there aren't many Consumers who live to be seventy-one. My life has been a blessed one, one of love and smiling between the struggles.”

Kad watched the shimmers of the family, feeling the mutual sense of adoration that seeped between them, feeling their smiles. His stomach felt deep and lonely, a coldness was on his shoulders as he felt the absence of familial hands.

You can't count on them, Kad. Even if they are Consumers, they'll hurt you, everyone always does.

Kad fought against the intrusion, gritting his teeth tightly. Bimi released his granddaughter's arm, and turned to Kad, studying him sightlessly.

“You stopped coming to the centre then. Why was that?”

Kad thought back to the fights he got himself into, how the insults, jeers and loneliness sunk into his skin, followed him everywhere. Including amongst the other Consumers. Even there, he felt alone, an outsider amongst his own people. As one boat on the horizon began to leave, another arrived. Kad stumbled for answer, but he had none that were devoid of anger and accusation. Bimi sighed again, turning to Naika in the silence.

“So, we should come up with a plan, muymum.”

“I'm thinking.” She said irritably.

Kad sighed, relinquishing himself to defeat.

“You two can stay with me 'till you figure out what you're doing. I guess.”

Are you sure you want to do this?

Bimi looked back at Kad.

“ Do you live here?”

“No, I'm just renting a room.” He jerked a thumb back towards the inn as more people began to enter it, and the din grew.

“What do you think, poppo?” Naika asked.

Bimi rubbed his chin.

“We are due to meet the guides tomorrow. The plan was to find somewhere to stay tonight.”

“The guides?” Kad asked. “For what?”

Bimi and Naika exchanged blind glances.

“We're going to a settlement.” Naika said nervously.

“One where all people from all places are welcome.” Bimi added brightly.

“You're settling here? Why? What about the community centre?”

“Oh, I am too old for that now, pushta.” Bimi said with a wry smile. “I wanted to take my granddaughters somewhere safe, to find a new life away from the city. I was to use the last of my savings to make it so, but...”

“Granddaughters? Is there another one of you aroudn here?” Kad asked, tensing to concentrate, to feel if there was another Consumer nearby.

Naika's smile quickly faded, and Bimi rubbed his head.

“Oh, muymum, I am sorry. Sometimes I get so...so...”

“It...it's okay poppo.” She said sadly, before turning to Kad. “No, it's just us. Trying to get to Gentle Stream. The guides will meet us here tomorrow. Hopefully, they won't be too bothered about money.”

Kad nodded solemnly.

“I get it.” He said, exhaling deeply. “If you want to stay in my lodging tonight, you can. I don't know how long I'll be here, but I've paid for that much.”

“That would be most kind of you, pushta.” Bimi said smiling.

Kad smiled, still reeling from being called a boy, but relishing the sounds of the old tongue.

Its going to be okay. Just one night, then we'll be off on our own again. I promise.

Kad helped them with their supplies, placing everything back into their bags.

“So, what is your plan, Kad?” Naika asked.

Clack.

“Plan? What plan?”

“I mean, what are you doing here? Are you working?”

“No.” Kad said, lifting one of the bags. “I'm just exploring, one place to the next. Started off in Promise Coast, went through the Southern Savanna's and a bit of the jungles, not sure where I'll go next.”

“You can come with us.” Naika said hopefully. “Right, poppo? Kad can travel with us!”

Bimi grumbled.

“If pushta wishes to, then I suppose he can.”

“Become a settler? I don't think so.”

“It's a community, for everyone.”

“Too many people think I'm a murderer, I don't think that will be a good idea.”

“But you're not, right?”

A murderer? No, maybe not. A killer, on the other hand...

Before Kad could answer, a small group of Sapes emerged onto shore and began wandering the hill in excited discussion. At the head of the column, was a Moon-Orkan, with lilac skin, small teeth emerging from her bottom lip. She was slender, with a black bob-cut that obscured her eyes when the wind rushed through it. They were all dressed identically, brown woollen cloaks with white robes, tightly fitted to their bodies. There was black trim along the buttons and cuffs. Some had bags, but all were packed lightly. The woman in the front extended her arms wide, as onlookers stopped to gape.

“We are here, my brothers and sisters! The promised lands we sought! Soon, our divine place shall be found, and peace will be with us all!”

The crowd behidn her murmured tiredly, touching their finger tips to their foreheads with a single hand.

“Oh great, missionaries.” Kad heard a gruff sialor say.

“What are they doin' 'ere?” Said a lady of the night.

“I hope they're not coming to the same settlement as us.” Naika whispered.

“What are they? Voss Novians?” Kad asked.

Bimi sniffed the air.

“Hard to say, with the smell of damp rot and sea-water. Sounds like the type of judgmental drivel they come up with though.”

“Poppo!” Naika said playfully, bumping into his arm with a smile.

“Let's get out of here before they try to convert us.” Kad said, taking one of their bags to The Crow's Nest.

The inside of the inn already grew busy, barely breaking into midday. Serving staff meandered with jugs of imported beers and wine to go with their stews of various exotic animals. The three Consumers slipped in, largely ignored by the taller, larger races. The proprietor behind the bar was one of the Avian Sapients, with black feathers circling curious yellow eyes before dropping to a curved, black beak. His arms were finned by wings, folded in between his arms and his brown apron. A checked bowtie of red and white sat handsomely under his chin, a shirt flecked with beer and soup sat beneath the leather apron. His eyes flicked past the customer he was serving as he caught the three of them slipping past the crowd.

“Oi! Where you three goin'?” He cawed.

Kad shivered, straightening his back up.

“What? I have a room.” Kad reached past his tattered cloak and pulled out a key attached to a wooden key-ring, the number '8' etched into it.

Bimi and Naika drew themselves closer as the crowds slowly began to turn their attention to the Consumers.

“Yeah, you do. They don't.”

“Pardon us, we just need to stay somewhere until tomorrow. We were robbed.” Naika said politely.

Kad heard someone scoff around them.

“Yeah, sure.” Someone muttered.

“Bloody Consumers, they're all alike aren't they?”

Kad felt heat rush to his checks and the back of his neck. Cold sweat dribbled past his temple.

“I've already paid for the room.” He said.

“No, you paid for you to stay. If they wanna be in here, they'll 'ave to pay.” The Corvid said, shaking his head. “Ten legacies, for each of 'em.”

“Come on, that's ridiculous.” Kad protested. “Twenty Legacies? There's only one bed in that room.”

The Corvid shrugged, picking up a goblet and cleaning it with a wet rag.

“Don't like it, don't stay 'ere.” He said, grinning with his beak.

Many of the crowd sniggered.

“They should go somewhere else.”

“Yeah, I don't wanna sleep knowing those things are 'ere.”

Kad felt the pressure rising in his head. The clinking of the plates and cups, moving of wooden chairs against the floor. He could feel their sneers, their suspicions, their disdain.

Why is it like this everywhere? Can we not have peace anywhere we go?

Kad relented, sighing slightly, reaching for his coin pouch. He had two Dynasties left, and eighteen Legacies. He picked one up, using the smell of the metals to differentiate between the two types. He placed the gold dynasty onto the counter, and the Corvid snatched it away.

“Fine, they can stay. Just for the night.”

Kad gritted his teeth.

“My change?”

“Sorry pal.” The Corvid said, suppressing a cruel laugh. “Haven't got any.”

Clack.

“Please, be fair to us, we are just travellers.” Bimi said diplomatically. “Will the Dynasty be enough for three meals?”

“Meals?” The Corvid said, surprised. “Just what kinda meals are we talkin' 'bout 'ere, old man?”

More of the crowd turned to look at the three again, as Naika hugged closer to her grandfather. Their looks of suspicion turned to horror as they awaited the answer to their inquisitions.

“Just some stew, bread if you have some.” Bimi said calmly.

“And alcohol.” Kad said, baring his teeth. “Lots of that.”

The Corvid clacked his beak, watching the elder Consumer with amusement.

“Alright, yeah.” He said slyly. “I'll have some brought up to ya.”

“Thank you.” Bimi said, bowing his head slightly.

The three made their way up the stairs and away from the sneers. Kad unlocked the small room and let the others in quickly. Despite the dry days, the room still smelled of damp rot. There was little room beyond the bed and star mattress and a single, crudely assembled dresser and stool. Naika immediately went to sit on the stool, struggling as it was clearly built by a larger Sape than her. Bimi sat himself gently down on the bed, sighing tiredly. Kad was muttering as he angrily threw his belongings to the floor.

“What a rip.” He hissed. “Taking our money, for no good reason. You know why he did that, don't you?”

“Yes, pushta.” Bimi said, exhaustedly. “I am aware. I've encountered it once or twice before, you know.”

“If we were Humies or Orkans, he wouldn't have done that. Who does he think we are? What's he think we're going to get up to in here?” Kad vented, the anger seeping past his teeth.

“No trust these days.” Bimi said sadly. “No trust at all.”

“Hasn't it always been this way, poppo?” Naika asked, unfastening her boots and releasing a delicate grey foot.

Bimi sighed.

“In some ways, yes I suppose so. Consumers have always been feared, hated.”

“But why?” Kad asked. “What have we ever done to anyone?”

“It's our abilities.” Naika said simply. “Our need to feed. They see it as invasive, dangerous.”

“Only after they treat us like scum.” Kad hissed. “I wouldn't want to feed on them if they didn't make me want to.”

“Perhaps you should have come to our community centre more, pushta.” Bimi said sagely. “I did many sermons on the cyclical nature of prejudice.”

Clack.

Kad fidgeted nervously.

“No offense, but I didn't feel particularly welcome there either.”

He sank against the wall, reliving the feelings of isolation.

“Maybe you should come with us, khasha.” Naika said optimistically. “It's a place for everyone.”

“Yeah, I've heard that one before.” Kad muttered bitterly.

“If not with us, then where will you go, pushta?” Bimi asked.

Kad pursed his lips, his tongue pressing against his oblong teeth.

“Doesn't matter. I'll find somewhere.”

“If you are waiting for a sign as to where you are meant to go, then perhaps this is it.”

A community. Without hatred or persecution. Is such a place even possible?

“How do you even know about this place? How do you know it will be a safe place for everyone?” Kad asked.

“We heard it through the community centre. There were fliers and people coming in throughout Spi'Ra and the Lynchlands.” Naika answered.

“We are looking for a place for our own, pushta. Are you not looking for the same?” Bimi asked.

Kad leant his head against the wall.

No, you're not. All of these people, treating you like dirt all your life. You don't want to live side by side with them, do you?

“It's supposed to be a peaceful community.” Naika said. “Where we can all live a good life, regardless of what species we are or where we came from.”

“You helped us tonight, pushta. We can help you start a new life.”

You just want to hurt them.

Kad sank down, until he was sitting on the floor, his arms dangling in front of him. The dampness was suffocating. It was the same in Spi'Ra. No matter where he went, it was damp, dank and cold. There were suspicious eyes, those who called him killer, who hated him just for being alive.

There is no place for people like us. It's just a dream, Kad.

He massaged the bridge of his nose. His head felt strained, pain tried to rip through his skin.

“I know what it is you feel, Kad.” Bimi said seriously. “The way those patrons treated us today-”

“It's not just them. Everywhere I go. Everywhere we all go, it's like that. I should go down there and teach them why we should be feared, because they have no idea. They treat us this way because they are told to. I can show them. I'll drain them all until there's nothing left.”

Bimi shook his head sadly.

“You couldn't.” He said simply. “There are too many of them. You can only drain one being at a time, pushta. You would be killed, or at least seriously hurt.”

Clack, went Kad's tongue, baring his teeth at those who could not see them.

“You know nothing, old man.” He hissed. “I've face much worse than those downstairs.”

“Worse?” Naika said, shivering slightly. “What's out there?”

“Monsters, far as I can tell, kitua.” Kad said gravely. “Brigands, wild animals, and things locked up deep below the ground. I've seen them, fought them. A couple of ignorant palang don't frighten me.”

This time it was Bimi who bared his teeth, a sense of dread coming at Kad like a gradual wave.

“So you are a killer, pushta? Is that what we are heading?”

Go on, tell them. They might be your kin, but they should fear you too.

He could feel Naika's fear, gently rippling through the air.

Clack.

“I defended myself when I've been attacked.” He said curtly.

“But...the councillor? The one they say you killed?” Naika asked tentatively.

“I told you before I didn't kill him.” Kad said angrily.

The light from the windows began to dull and diminish as the afternoon aged. An uncomfortable silence grew between them as the minutes grew and died, but Kad was reluctant to trudge downstairs just yet, and be met with the same glares.

I told you this was a mistake.

You were right.

Kad's head began to throb incessantly. His teeth began to itch at the gums, and his fingers scratched at his cloak. Both Bimi and Naika eventually succumbed to sleep as the darkness began to penetrate the room. The old man's snores roared as a gentle knocking tapped away at the door. When Kad opened it, it revealed a large tay, with three bowls of steaming stew and fresh bread. There were chunks of brown meat and orange vegetables in the hot liquid, and beside it, a flagon of wine and three small cups had been left. He brought them in, ripping apart the bread as he sank back down, eating out of boredom more than hunger.

Kad awoke, still next to the wall, his tongue and teeth stained with the majority of the wine. He groaned as he stretched, his head throbbing slightly. He heard rustling as someone in his room rummaged through their bag. Kad caught a strange sensation, feeling a distant hunger. He heard a gnawing, something familiar but strange.

“Good morning, pushta.” Bimi said, cheerfully.

The room was still dark, but optimistic light began to filter through the shutters. Kad felt a burning in his throat. He could smell the empty bowls of stew. The wine flagon was missing, though the thought of more made Kad feel sick.

“Wha...what's going on?” Kad asked, disorientated.

“Naika has gone downstairs to fetch us some water. We must be going soon, to meet out guides in town. Will you be joining us?”

What is this feeling? Something feels...different.

Kad gently pushed himself up on tingling legs, smelling the air. There was something about Bimi that was different.

“Your...your gutrah...it's showing.”

Bimi smiled. His head was completely naked. His colourful veil had been folded neatly next to him, his second mouth sunk on the top of his cranium. It was satiated and still. It's teeth did not twitch or move. He stood in his vest top, folding his clothes from the night before. Even with his own father, Kad had never been present before another Consumer's gutrah before, and here was this old man, completely comfortable within their own presence.

“Of course. I try not to sleep with my cover on, but I was so exhausted last night.” Bimi said with a laugh.

“But...but what if someone sees?” Kad said anxiously.

“Relax, pushta. It is not illegal to remove one's veil in private company, or with another Yetrai.”

“Ye...Yetrai?” Kad asked.

Bimi gasped lightly, genuine shock perferoating his body.

“You are not serious, pushta? You have not heard the native name for our kind? You would use the palang name? For shame.”

Kad scratched at the back of his head.

“I did not know.” He said, feeling foolish.

Bimi tsked sadly.

“You should have spent more time with our kind, pushta. We have much for you to learn.”

Kad felt a sudden flare of anger lash at the back of his head.

I already told you old man, I hatred that place and my kind who went there.

“You must come with us, pushta, you must.” Bimi said, shaking his head once more. “You can help me, I think.”

“With what?” Kad said, sightly irritated.

Bimi smiled widely.

“It's not just a new life for my muymum, Kad. I come here seeking what no-one else knows. I wish to find where Consumers really come from.”

Kad leaned in closer, intrigued.

“What do you mean?”

“It has never been known, pushta. Most Yetrai will tell you we come from the Mother in the Sky, yes? You have heard this, surely.”

“Of course.” Kad admitted. “My dad would pray to here every-night before he passed out.”

“The Mother in the Sky is to be revered yes, but I do not think she created us. To tell you the truth, pushta, I believe there is another mother from where we came.”

The statement stunned Kad, freezing his muscles.

“That is why you came here?”

“I am a leader of our community, pushta. At least, I was. To lead, you must understand. I no longer lead, but I still seek the same answers I always have. Ah, if only these lands appeared when I was younger, pushta. My body is weak and frail. I have the spirit but not the flesh to complete such a task...but with your help, Kad, I believe we could find it together!”

Kad fell silent as Naika let herself in, carrying the flagon of water.

“Morning, khasha.” She said cheerfully. “Are you okay?”

Kad nodded as Bimi smiled thoughtfully at him. The pair gathered their belongings and set off through the inn. The morning grew dim, and a gentle rain consistently fell. The air had become cold, a sensation Kad had all but forgotten. They three stood outside of the inn, hoods pulled up. The few workers who braved the rain continued to scorn them as they passed.

“Well, good luck with everything.” Kad said, fighting off a strange feeling of sadness for his kin. “Where are your guides waiting?”

“They should be by the gates, so we've heard.” Naika replied. “You can still come with us, khasha. It's not too late.”

Clack.

“I'm fine. Maybe I'll see you both around sometime, if I'm passing nearby.”

Bimi clutched Kad's wrist firmly.

“If ever you change your mind, pushta, you will always have somewhere to stay.”

Kad felt a genuine smile creep up past his lips as the old man relinquished him, and the pair waved as they left him, alone in a town that hated him.

It's for the best, Kad.

Kad returned to Ame's Fine Tailoring to find the Gold Dvergr, Ametyst, propping the staff open.

“Oh, you're back.” She said cheerfully. “I finished it last night, I think you'll be happy with how it looks. Uh, can you see it?”

“No.” Kad said simply. “It's ready then?”

Ame presented him the Savanna-Cat pelt, finely stitched into a gloriously soft cloak. He let his boney fingers brush against the delicate fibres.

“Thanks.” He said curtly, and she said her goodbyes.

He pulled the cloak around his shoulders, abandoning his ragged old one nearby. It was luxurious and warm, fighting off against the cold. An emptiness ate away at him, something relentlessly gnawing at his bones.

I need to forget about them.

He stole up the stairs of The Crow's Nest, pushing past the large doors and into its sweaty insides with a desire to drown his feelings. Several sailors had fallen asleep in various chairs and parts of the floor. A few were still drinking, quietly chattering. Kad stood, almost unable to see above the counter once more, and pulled at a stool. It screeched as he drew it closer, and he climbed on top of it, and waited patiently. The rude Corvid proprietor was nowhere to be seen, an Evean bar-girl in a similar brown apron and light brown hair pulled at a pump, filling a mug with brown ale.

Looks like piss, but if it gets me drunk, I won't care.

As he waited, his senses scanned the area. He heard the whispers, about failed dreams and grand ambitions, dark chuckles and sickly groans. The smell of urine, beer and old meat stewed amongst them, but there was something else. A fresher smell, a shimmer that seemed somehow familiar.

Who is that?

“Hey, it's you!” A voice shouted from nearby.

Oh no, is that-

It wasn't a voice he recognised, but he could sense the shimmer.

“He's the one who killed my friends!” Came a drunken shout, growing louder. “There, that consumey!”

Kad gritted his teeth, hearing a stool being pushed backwards. The mixed-breed goblin staggered to his feet, even shorter than Kad. He had removed much of his leather armour, revealing a balding forehead, and a ragged ponytail. On his chin was a pointed beard. His skin was creased, but his eyes were that of a young man. An eyelid drooped slightly, and dribble pooled out between his lips.

“Oi! I'm talkin' to you!” He said, pointing directly at Kad. “Don't you ignore me, hic, consumey! We was, we was just, hic, passin' through an' he attacked us all! He killed all of them!”

His voice was draped with despair, as almost every eye was suddenly on Kad.

“You attacked me. There was five of you and only me, why would I attack you?”

“'Cos you're a consumey.” A High-Orkan with dark green skin growled.

“Yeah, that's what you do!” A Blood-Kin of demonic origin hissed, her pointed horns aimed directly at Kad.

“I knew it, recognise that cat's fur anywhere, I would! Hic!” The Goblin said, barely able to stand still without swaying.

“I'm just after a beer. I'm not here to hurt anyone.”

“You ain't welcome here, consumey.” The Orkan said through gritted teeth.

Kad could feel the fear emitted from the shimmer of the woman behind the bar. Kad could smell the sweat beading on her forehead as she stared coldly at him.

“He-he's right.” She said, gulping heavily. “I'm going to have to ask you to leave, please sir.”

“Sir?” The Blood demon snorted, taking another sip of beer.

Kad gritted his teeth.

Do it, Kad. Rip off your head wraps, unleash me. Take form all of them, make them know why they should be afraid of us!

Kad's fingers scratched against the wood, his back tightening. Fear and hatred was coming form all of them now. All whispers turned to about either him or his kind. Bimi whispered into his ear.

You can't face them all, pushta. Even if you killed every one of them, more would take their place.

Kad felt the anger pass through his fingertips as he released the strain within his hands. He breathed out deeply as the crowd began to jeer and taunt him once again.

“Bloody murderer.” The goblin said, distraught.

“I 'eard one of them killed a councillor too, one of them humies in the IRC.”

“And the rest. Bet there's a bounty for the one who killed him, though.”

Kad's sword suddenly felt far away, hanging behidn him. Deliberately, he pushed himself off of the stool and onto the floor, and walked towards the door.

“Wassa matter? Don't wanna do any more killin'? Don't want to eat us all up?” The goblin taunted, as members of the crowd laughed.

Kad pushed away from the stale air of the inn, and stalked angrily into the fresh open air. He strode with purpose, marching past the shimmers of energy that hovered in front of him. The ground had grown muddy as the rain did not relent. He pulled at the hood affixed to his new, fine cloak.

I'm sick of this. Let's go somewhere no-one will ever find us. Again.

He strode towards the gates, where he felt familiar bursts of energy, speaking to the Echidnid guard who yawned loudly.

They're still here? Shouldn't they be long gone by now?

“No, I ain't given you any more, leave me alone.” The guard said irritably.

“Please, sir, I'm not asking for any money, I just wanted to report we'd been robbed. If anyone has handed our purse in-”

“Handed it in?” The guard laughed maliciously. “This ain't school, love, no-one's handing in bags of money.”

He continued to laugh as Kad felt her deflation.

“Hey, what are you guys still doing here?” Kad called out.

“Oh great, another one. Leave me alone, go somewhere else. Now.” The guard said, his anger brewing.

Naika and Bimi quickly marched to see Kad.

“Pushta!” Bimi called out happily. “You changed your mind!”

“I wouldn't say that, but I do want to get out of here. Where are your guides?”

“They were supposed to be here an hour ago.” Naika said gloomily. “None of the gaurds have seen any of them, not that I think they would tell us anyway.”

“Perhaps they are just late, muymum. It will all be fine.” Bimi said, smiling lightly.

“I'm not so sure, poppo. They were supposed to arrive the day before to rest, maybe this emans soemthign has happened to them. Kad, you said there were monsters out here?”

“In one form or another, yes.” Kad said, feeling her anxiety rise. “Where is this place? Gentle Stream?”

“Far, they say.” Naika answered. “Twelve legua away from Journey's End, through the savanna, towards a set of mountains, and beyond.”

Kad traced his memory of the savanna, to see he if he had any notion of mountains. He remembered feeling the air grew colder to the north-east, but never went further than that. He sighed.

“I can take you to the savanna. It's a five legua walk, I've done it a few times before. Might be able to find the mountains from there.”

“Oh, pushta!” Bimi said joyfully. “I knew you would come with us!”

“I'm not. I'll take you to the savanna, but that's it, and you'll owe me. For the room and for this.”

“But how?” Naika asked sadly. “You know we don't have any money.”

“I will give you something.” Bimi said, withdrawing his bag. He reached into, and pulled out a heavy metal chain, a dank musk seeping off of it.

“No, poppo! You can't!”

“It's the only thing I have left of value, muymum.” Bimi said, holding it in both hands. “You know hat this is?”

Kad shrugged.

“This is the most important thing anyone ever gave me, besides my children and muymum.” Bimi said with a bright smile. “It is from a Nocterran, you know them, yes?”

“I've met a couple before.” Kad said, flaring his teeth bitterly.

“The Stone Sage of the Nocterrans, Daman Lodsta gave me this before he passed. Before a new Stone Sage is chosen to lead their people, a chain of metal and stone must be crafter by their own hands. Daman was a young man when he was appointed, but chosed from an ancient line. His ancestor was Bruca Lodsta, the Nocterran king who defied the Men of the East, and had his country destroyed. That is why there are so few Nocterrans now, see?”

“So why do you have this? More importantly, why would this be valuable?”

“Every chain is made by the Stone Sage's own hand, every one is made with it's own materials and is unique. Only a Stone Sage may wear it, retired or no. These are artefacts, sought after by museums and collectors. My friend Daman gave me this, after years of joint community companionship, so I might always remember the different links that connect it. A community of metal and stone, yes?”

Kad grunted, annoyed.

“It better be valuable, old man.” Kad grumbled.

“So you will take us to Gentle Stream?” Naika asked.

“I'll take you to the mountains. You'll have to find your own way from there.”

“Oh pushta!” Bimi cried, hugging Kad tightly. “Thank you, pushta, thank you!”

“Alright, alright.” Kad said, very aware of how the guards were looking at them.

Kad had an hour to resupply with what limited money he had left, enough food and water for at least a day for the three of them. The three of them set off through the gates as the drizzle ceased, and towards the jungle, and into the unknown.