Slave of Akrona Part Four

by G. Lawrence

A dangerous scheme seeks to lure out the wolves

This science fiction novel features romance but is light on erotic content. It's the story of a young soldier from Earth captured by an alien species and sent to the mines of Akrona to live among slaves. But this warrior from another world is no slave. The book is being presented in 9 parts.

* * * * * *

Chapter Four

SHALLI LOVES A COWARD

Ferret Camp was quiet. Sullen. Grey had expected some reaction, especially after the jeers he'd gotten from Sparrow Camp and the cold shoulders of Deer Camp, but he hadn't thought his own camp so naïve. In a way, it made him angry, but he knew he had only himself to blame. He didn't trust the camp enough to take them into his confidence.

"Look, Seenar, he's leaving," Hernet said as Grey walked from the camp into the early evening darkness.

Seenar spit in the cooking fire, her dark eyes following Grey with contempt. Hernet went to hold his young wife's shoulders, calming her anger.

"Let's hope he doesn't come back. He shamed us all. Don't we have enough problems?" Seenar asked, brushing her long black hair back to keep it out of the soup.

"We are not all shamed. We should be sad for Ben. He's been our friend," Clagg said in a subdued voice, sitting on a log next to Myra.

"I don't understand. Why didn't he run? We warned him many times," Myra insisted.

"Maybe he was too afraid to run. When a coward's feet freeze, nothing can move them," Cot speculated.

"He didn't look so afraid. Not at first," Myra said.

"He looked afraid when he begged them to stop," Beknar said. "It proves what I've always said, you can never tell about people. Especially strangers. Didn't he hide on the mountain all that time?"

"He did hide on the mountain," Pie said, her heart broken. "I thought he was so brave. Poor Shalli. Poor, poor Shalli."

"We'll try to find someone else for her, maybe from Deer Camp," Clagg suggested. "Maybe she should live there for awhile, until she forgets."

"Where is Shalli?" Myra asked.

"She went down to the creek. I think she's crying. I think she will cry for a long time," Pie said.

"I will, too," Myra said, her eyes red.

Grey went up the trail toward the quarry, knowing the way in the darkness, and then veered down the overgrown path to his private clearing in the woods. He had found a spare shirt but did not dare put it on with his body still covered in gunk. There was much to think about.

A small dome tent set up near his manmade pond was made of old canvas and bent branches, forming a sturdy retreat. He started a fire, put several rocks in an iron pot hanging over the flames, and jumped in the pool to wash the ashes out of his hair. The black handprints were gone but the bruises remained.

Once the rocks were heated, he used a thick stick to lift the pot off the fire and carry it to the tent, placing it just inside the flap before crawling in. When he poured water on the hot rocks, the small tent would become a sweat lodge. He found Shalli sitting quietly in the corner, her head only an outline against the dim light showing through the canvas.

"I knew you would come here," she said, moving over so he could sit down.

Grey poured a splash of water on the rocks and settled down to enjoy the flash of hot steam. He considered finding his shirt, and then decided that in the darkened hut, it didn't matter. She couldn't see anything. Not that she hadn't already seen everything many times. It took him a moment to realize she wasn't wearing anything, either.

"Myra and Clagg will worry," he warned.

"Maybe they should think more and worry less," she responded.

"I can't disagree," Grey said with a sigh.

"This morning, you said today would not be your finest hour. I didn't understand. I wasn't even close to understanding. Now I understand too much," Shalli said, snuggling closer.

"What do you understand?" he asked.

"You're going after the wolves. You're going after them alone because you don't want Clagg or anyone else to get hurt. Today you were watching them. Looking for weakness. Getting them to underestimate you. You risked your life, and gave up your pride, and you've been rewarded with scorn."

"What would make you think all this?" Grey said, not quite admitting it was true.

"Knowing you. I have felt your courage. You cannot pretend around me so well as you think, because I love you. And you know I love you."

Grey poured a little more water on the rocks and sat back against a bale of weeds. Shalli crawled next to him.

"Does it hurt?" she asked.

"The ribs will heal," he said, stroking her hair.

"Not the kicking. I've seen you ignore pain in the mines. I mean the insults."

"It's disappointing, but it can't be helped. The wolves are tough and confident. My only chance is to take them by surprise. Sometimes sacrifices need to be made."

"And you've always made them, haven't you?" Shalli said. "I think that's been your whole life. Now that I know more, I see it in your eyes. The way you talk. The way you study problems. I'm happy."

"Happy?" he asked.

"Yes, I'm happy. I grew up today," Shalli said.

Grey sensed that maybe it was true. There was a maturity in her that hadn't been there before. She leaned up for a kiss. He kissed her.

* * * * * *

Grey appeared at the quarry late the following morning, moving slower than usual. Ahead of schedule for the fall season, he didn't feel bad about asking Clagg for some rest time. Clagg was quiet, merely nodding. Of the forty workers in the quarry, none appeared anxious to look Grey in the face. Except one.

"Ben, come over here," Nole said, putting down his pick ax.

Grey turned from the new scaffold erected next to Ferret Camp's mountain. Constructed with scrap timber from the mines, the scaffold rose in four shaky levels to the blast crater in the steep cliff.

"Yes, leader of Deer Camp," Grey said, stepping back from the lowest platform.

"I'm sorry about your fight with the wolves yesterday. I hope you aren't hurt," Nole said.

"It wasn't a fight, and I'm more sore than hurt," Grey answered.

"Many here are unhappy with you," Nole continued.

"That's not my problem," Grey said, turning to climb the scaffold.

"Wait," Nole said, grabbing Grey's shirt.

Grey turned with an angry flare in his eyes, his brow furrowing. Nole had seen that look before. He let go and stepped back with his hands raised.

"Hear me, Ben. Let everyone hear me," Nole said, nearly shouting. "You gave us this quarry. You gave us summer quota, and the benefits that go with it. You saved my daughter. I don't care what anyone else says, you're my friend. If Ferret Camp is too blind to see your heart, come to Deer Camp. We will always have a tent for you."

Nole turned to those who were watching, especially members of his own camp, daring someone to disagree. None did. Cot walked up, followed by Hernet.

"We were not your friends last night. Nole is right, we become blind too easily. Can you forgive me?" Cot said. The tall miner gazed in sincere supplication, the long arms wanting to reach out.

"And me," Hernet said, standing at Cot's side.

Grey was surprised. Had he already challenged the wolves and his motives became clear, such contrition would have been easy to understand. But these men still thought him an embarrassment to their camp. They were accepting him despite his shameful performance, uncaring what anyone else thought. Grey stared at the ground, not knowing what to say.

Clagg pushed through the crowd.

"I, too, am sorry. I think we all are," Clagg said. "Only so much should be expected of any man. Sometimes we expect more than is fair. That's our fault, not yours. Will you return to Ferret Camp?"

Grey nodded with his head down, unable to speak. Clagg grabbed him in a bear hug, grinning from ear to ear. Cot and Hernet embraced him, too, followed by many others. Grey's ribs hurt but he didn't care.

"Thank you, Nole," Grey said as Ferret Camp's members returned to work.

"It was for their sake, too," Nole explained. "Last night they felt shame. And anger, because they felt you brought that shame on them. But the shame belongs to Marne and his wolves, and those of us who haven't stopped them. It's our shame, and we know it. We're simple people, Ben. Sometimes we don't see the truth right away. But I know this. You aren't a simple person, and you didn't run from the wolves when you could have."

Everyone went back to work, breaking up the better ore stones and loading them into the carts, though there was more talking now. The mood in the quarry had lightened. Grey glanced toward the tracks and saw Shalli, a big smile on her face. He felt she had every right to be proud of her people.

* * * * * *

"The scaffold isn't strong," Grey complained on a late afternoon a few days later, pointing at the wobbly platforms they were using to mine the cliff wall.

"Will you use an explosive to enlarge the crater instead?" Clagg asked.

"I'd rather not. Not until we have a wide enough ledge to drill proper holes," Grey answered.

"The ore is good. All can see the golden veins even from here," Hernet said, looking up at the glistening streaks.

"It would be better to take the riches directly from the mountain. If we cave it down into the gully, much might be lost in the field," Cot added.

"I think so, too," Grey agreed. "I'll ask Frontra for more materials so we can build a stronger scaffold."

"You asked her last week. And the week before," Cot said.

"And now I will ask her again," Grey replied.

"Good timber is scare," Clagg warned.

Grey looked toward the thick forest growing in the mountains south of the compound. It occurred to him that if they could get large saws, they could cut all the timber they needed. Even produce a surplus to pay for the equipment.

"The masters come," Wart warned, the youngster running from the eastern trail.

Grey cursed under his breath. The arrival of the Arikhan sentries always involved a degree of kneeling and cringing that slowed production, and even though the season still had three weeks left, he hoped to reach quota before the next rest day. Clagg smiled, knowing exactly what Grey was thinking.

"Patience, my brother. Only death lies at the end of our trail. Don't be in such a hurry," Clagg said, slapping him on the shoulder.

"We can die later. Today, I have work to do," Grey growled.

"You will pay us heed, food creatures," Nabbatron said, climbing on a boulder in the middle of the quarry. He wore a new emerald green leather vest and black leather boots. Frontra was also wearing a new outfit. Both had put large yellow feathers in the bands of their broad brim felt hats, displaying a new pride in their service.

The workers came to kneel. A head taller than most of the humans, Nabbatron looked like a giant standing on the rock with his long arms and powerful legs. An excellent psychological advantage, not that he needed one.

Grey kneeled impatiently at the perimeter of the group, anxious to get back to work. Frontra came to stand nearby as if assuring him the assembly would not be long. She, too, knew what was on his mind.

"Good news, food creatures," Nabbatron announced. "It appears you will soon reach quota for the fall season. Sarden Leader Gamtro considers this a remarkable achievement. When the quota is met, you will be granted two days of celebration and a keg of mauck. If you exceed quota by fifteen percent, you will be rewarded with extra clothing, new tents, and solar lanterns."

"Excuse me, master, may I speak?" Clagg asked.

"Speak, food creature leader," Nabbatron permitted.

"Much would we like to earn the Sarden Leader's reward. May we take the rest days at the end of season?" Clagg requested.

Nabbatron clicked his tongue with approval. In line for a bonus, he appreciated the difference those extra two days could make.

"The request is granted," Nabbatron agreed. "Return to your efforts. Do not allow the presence of your superiors to distract you further."

"Nabbatron is generous, is he not?" Frontra said to Grey, her voice low. "Ordering workers to ignore our presence, even on a worksite, is rare for him."

"In this matter, mistress, I agree with Nabbatron. We should not slack off so close to our goal," Grey said.

"What does the food creature complain of now?" Nabbatron asked, approaching at the end of their conversation.

"The half-meat agrees with your decision to keep working. He desires Gamtro's rewards," Frontra said.

"Impertinent, but not stupid," Nabbatron remarked, clicking his tongue approvingly. "Why do you keep asking for more timber? You labor outside, not in a mine. You have enough."

"Excuse me, master, but this timber is either too thick or too thin for scaffolding," Grey said. "We have no bolts or metal straps, only pliant bark and a bit of wire. No heavy tools can be used on the top platform, yet there lies the best ore."

He pointed up. Though the stones littering the canyon floor offered much promise, even Nabbatron could see the shining streaks in the rock face.

"Eventually we can carve a ledge in the rock and tunnel in, but for now, we need a sturdier scaffold," Grey insisted.

Workers in the area shook their heads and looked away. No one else would dare speak to an Arikhan in such a manner. Nabbatron didn't like it either.

"You risk much, food creature," Nabbatron said, drawing his shock wand.

Grey knelt at Nabbatron's feet to accept punishment as he had several times before. Frontra stood aside, not interfering. Nor would Grey have wanted her to. Nabbatron lowered the wand, touching Grey's shoulder. The spark only caused him to flinch. Grey realized the wand had been put on the lowest setting. He looked up at Nabbatron.

"If fitting punishment were given each time you speak impertinently, you would be dead, food creature. How can you serve me if you are dead?" Nabbatron said, putting the wand away.

"If I were dead, master, your cook would need to do the serving," Grey answered.

Frontra clicked her tongue in delight at Grey's joke, and Nabbatron seemed to enjoy it just as much. This also astonished the workers close enough to hear, for no one but Grey would have offered such a dark jest.

"I will inspect these platforms, but if you speak falsely, the punishment will not be light," Nabbatron warned.

"Thank you, master," Grey acknowledged, getting to his feet.

As the Arikhan sentries walked to the cliff wall, Grey went to the tool tent where Clagg, Cot, Turk, and Nole were waiting. They shook their heads.

"You're a fool to provoke Nabbatron," Clagg scolded.

"Good timber is scarce," Turk added.

"The best timber goes to the northern camps," Nole explained. "You may be pressuring Nabbatron to provide that which isn't his to give."

"He's a greedy son of a bitch. If better timber would boost his reward, he'd cut the damn lumber himself," Cot declared.

"Nabbatron appreciates the bonuses we bring. His punishments grow less as his rewards increase," Grey said.

"As you would know best of all," Clagg said, frowning in disapproval of Grey's provocations.

"Gamtro would not offer such lavish rewards if he wasn't aware of our progress," Nole concluded. "And Nabbatron will not see the Sarden Leader disappointed."

"The other camps are jealous," Turk said, the young man standing next to Nole. Working outside every day for the first time in his life, his skin had tanned and grown clear. Strapping and square-jawed, Grey still thought Turk would make a good match for Shalli. And as other camps spurned Ferret and Deer camps, he knew the lack of social contacts must be frustrating for young men like Turk and Burne.

"Gamtro may have more ambitious plans than tension between the camps. By spring season I think there will be changes," Nole suggested.

Nole's opinion gave Grey pause. He wasn't sure if a more aggressive leadership was in the people's best interest. On the other hand, good leadership could make the entire compound more productive. Having grown up on a remote colony, he had a hundred ideas on how it might be done.

A noise from the cliff attracted everyone's attention. Nabbatron was testing the strength of the scaffold supports. At the other end of the long structure, Frontra was inspecting grooves in the granite wall where the workers had tried to cut steps with chisels. The effort had only dulled the tools, which she found discarded underneath the lowest platform.

"Master, don't!" Grey called out from the hill fifty yards away.

Nabbatron stared at him and shook the scaffold harder, eye-rings raised in defiance.

"Nabbatron, stop!" Grey yelled, walking from the tent and waving his arms.

The scaffold started to twist sideways, one end bumping into the cliff, the other wobbling. Workers backed away, some trying to grab their tools. Then one of the fragile brackets snapped, tilting the entire structure.

"Run! Everybody run!" Burne shouted, grabbing Wart and pulling him to safety.

"Get away! Get away!" Hernet yelled, carrying Pie as he ran.

The other workers quickly scattered, too, for it was not the first time the scaffolding had presented a danger. Only the two Arikhan overseers seemed confused by the sudden panic of the food creatures.

As the weight of the structure rapidly shifted, more of the bindings started to separate, causing the platforms to break loose and slide in the direction of the tilt. When one of the falling planks hit Frontra on the head, she stumbled against the rock wall, stunned by the impact.

Grey didn't waste another second, accelerating down the slope, hurtling an ore cart, and leaping from rock to rock toward the cliff. Nabbatron finally jumped back from the disintegrating scaffold before seeing Frontra leaning against the wall, blood on her forehead. But with the teetering structure coming down, all he could do was get out of the way.

Disoriented by the blow, Frontra seemed dazed, unsure which way to turn. She felt the side of the cliff, pushed against a leaning timber, and deflected a falling beam with her arm that pushed her roughly into the mountain. Nabbatron desperately searched for a way to reach Frontra, but planks kept tumbling in his path.

Then, out of the corner of his eye, Nabbatron saw a sprinting figure charging the cliff. It was the half-meat, running faster than he thought the creature could move. Just as the scaffold gave way entirely, Grey dove under the lowest platform and pressed Frontra into a niche, protecting her with his body. The structure collapsed in a crashing plume of churning dust.

"Hurry, food creatures! Hurry!" Nabbatron called, rushing to the pile of timbers and throwing the broken pieces aside. His double-jointed knees and elbows allowed him to twist fragments loose. He was quickly joined by others, especially Clagg, whose strength almost matched Nabbatron's.

"Careful. Careful. Prop the beams up," Nole urged.

Nabbatron and Clagg saw he was right and paused to brace some of the broken timbers, lest loose beams sink deeper into the pile. Others hauled the debris aside. Near the bottom, a frame was pinning the victims against the cliff.

"Clagg, help me. All others stand back," Nabbatron ordered.

Standing side-by-side, Clagg and Nabbatron lifted the frame and dragged it away. Nabbatron found Frontra sitting against the cliff, her eyes alert. Grey lay unconscious in her lap.

"Do you survive, sister?" Nabbatron asked, stepping through to help her up.

"Yes, brother. Sherra chooses another day to call me to her altar," Frontra replied.

Nabbatron saw Frontra had superficial cuts and was breathing hard, but otherwise appeared uninjured.

Clagg stepped through the wreckage to pick Grey up. The unconscious body was limp in his arms. Blood streamed from his nose and mouth. Cot assisted Clagg out of the debris, carrying Grey to the tool tent where he was put on a grass mat. There was no tension in his muscles. Pie tore off her tunic to make a pillow for his head. Shalli used her dress to mop the blood. Tak put a blanket over his legs.

"Does he breathe?" Cot asked.

"Not much. Bones may be broken. I'm not sure," Clagg said.

"There's no light in his eyes," Pie worried.

"We need Thal," Tak decided.

"Thal cannot help him. And even if she could, she wouldn't come," Cot said.

Frontra and Nabbatron approached, causing most of the workers to draw back. Several more guards arrived, alerted by the dust cloud and shouting.

"Did someone attack the zone leader?" Bortro inquired, seeing blood on Frontra.

"No. The ladders fell," Frontra said, pointing to the pile of timbers.

"I should not have shaken it after the half-meat's warning," Nabbatron admitted.

The guards put their weapons away and established order. Bortro entered the tent, pushed Shalli and Pie away, and opened Grey's shirt to probe his chest for injuries with his stubby claws. All in the tent grew impatient for the stout guard's verdict.

"Favorable news, Nabbatron," Bortro finally said. "The food creature bleeds inside but will live a few more hours. The meat will be fresh on your spit."

With a grunt of primal anger, Nabbatron struck Bortro with the back of his claw, the force so great the shorter Arikhan sentry was knocked to the ground.

"Offer no opinions, ranker," Nabbatron growled. "Where is Wart?"

Frightened half to death, young Wart came forward to kneel at Nabbatron's feet, his body shaking.

"I am here, master," Wart said, the words barely audible.

"Listen well or it will be you who graces my spit," Nabbatron said.

"Yes, master," Wart nodded.

"Run to the main gate. Run as fast as you can," Nabbatron ordered, switching to a clearly spoken Akronos. "Tell Delatron the half-meat is hurt saving Frontra from the falling wall. He is to summon a yarbel ky from the assembly plant at An'cor with great speed. Most important, food youngling, tell Delatron that by my honor, by the faith of our brotherhood, do not fail me. Do you understand my words?"

"Yes, master," Wart said, leaping to his feet and running for the gate two kilometers away.

Nabbatron picked Grey up and carried him to Ferret Camp with Shalli and Tak running fearlessly in his wake. Frontra and the other guards followed, not even looking back at the mystified workers.

"I never thought to see anything like that," Nole said, scratching his head.

"See what? One master strike another, or Nabbatron try to help a food creature?" Cot said, just as amazed.

"I didn't know Nabbatron knew Wart's name," Clagg said. "Hell, I didn't know he knew my name."

* * * * * *

Grey woke up during the night at the height of the second moon. He was lying on a canvas cot, the first bed he had been in since--since he had lived on another world under a different name. Shalli was sleeping on a ground cloth beside him. The people outside were quiet but the campfire burned higher than usual. He could smell fresh venison.

"What happened?" he whispered to no one in particular.

A portly Arikhan entered the tent carrying a lantern, squatting next to the cot. It was an alien Grey had never seen before. It wore the white tunic of a yarbel ky with bronze swamp leaf decorations on the collar, an indication of long service. Without speaking, the Arikhan looked into his eyes with a medical scanner and ran its claw over his torso, poking tender areas. Grey noticed tiny stitches near his lower ribs but felt no pain. He was drugged. He felt good.

"The damage was halted in time," the pudgy Arikhan said in a precise, professional accent. "Stay still for three weeks. Do no lifting. Take the medication that stops infection. Do not ever call me to this horrid place again."

The yarbel ky picked up his medical kit and waddled from the camp. Shalli got up as Myra and Clagg entered to kneel by the cot. Standing in the doorway were Frontra and Nabbatron. Grey noticed the two Arikhan were brushing claws and realized for the first time that, despite their feuds, they were fond of each other.

"My debt to you is paid, Ben. Next time, you grace my spit," Nabbatron warned.

"My debt is not paid," Frontra said, eye-rings bent in appreciation.

"Expressions of obligation are unnecessary, mistress. Many times have you been a friend," Grey said.

Frontra lowered her head in acknowledgement and left the tent with Nabbatron, going back toward their quarters outside the main gate.

"You did not call him food creature," Frontra said as they walked a dirt trail through the quiet compound.

"It is not a food creature, so I did not call it one," Nabbatron replied.

"You confuse me, my sometime companion," Frontra said.

"The creature offered its life to save you, my preferred companion. It is well known that food creatures risk much to help each other. Even animals in the wild do that. But for one of them to help one of us is not an ordinary thing. It is not something a food creature would do."

"There are many stories of slaves helping their masters. It is known that some slaves have died for their masters. It is not so unusual."

"It may not be unusual for a slave, but Ben is no slave. Ben is arrogant, impertinent, and annoying, and much does he deserve punishment for speaking boldly to his superiors, but there is no trace of slave in him," Nabbatron explained.

"Have you seen what I have so long believed?" Frontra asked.

"I have no answer. To me, most of them are still food creatures. Maybe I will always see them as food creatures. But not all. I must visit the Shrine at Ra' Pall to seek Sherra's wisdom," Nabbatron said, clicking his tongue softly.

"Blessed is the wisdom of Sherra," Frontra agreed.

While Grey went back to sleep tended by Shalli, the men and women of Ferret Camp hunkered down near the fire, sharing a late night broth.

"There is something I must say," Cot whispered. "After the wolves, I said Ben's feet had frozen because he was afraid. His feet were not frozen today. He ran very fast even though the logs were falling."

"I have never seen anyone run so fast, not even Wart," Hernet said.

"He could have run away from the wolves, if he'd wanted to," Myra remembered.

"Yes, I think he could have," Hernet agreed.

"Ben is not a coward," Cot decided.

"No, he is not," Clagg said.

"He didn't run away from the wolves, but he didn't fight them, either," Beknar said. "He cried and begged, but he's not a coward. What does it mean?"

"I think Ben is planning something," Clagg said.

"Planning what?" Seenar asked, clutching her new baby, a red-faced infant named Mora.

"We'll need to ask him when he gets better," Myra said. "But if Ben wants people to think he's a coward, maybe he has a reason."

"He's very smart. If Ben does something, there's always a reason," Clagg said. "Let's not say anything to the other camps. Let them think what they want."

"I should not have called him a coward. He's been my friend," Cot said.

"And mine," Hernet said just as dolefully.

"He's still your friend, you big oafs," Myra said. "Now go to sleep. Without Ben our work will be harder tomorrow."

* * * * * *

Grey hated being restricted to a tent erected near the quarry. Even supplied with paper and pencils to plan a new scaffold, the days were long. To keep him from disobeying the doctor's orders, various camp members were assigned to watch him, much to his displeasure. Frontra found the ritual so amusing she even volunteered for a shift.

"What do the bird scratches mean?" Frontra asked, inspecting several sheets of closely scrawled yellow paper. They included charts, diagrams, maps, and machinery.

"They are calculations using a numbering system called Arabic," Grey said, propped up by a feather pillow. He finished another page and handed it to her.

"Like the scratches on the cliff above the old mine?" Frontra asked. Grey hadn't known his observatory had been discovered.

"The numbers have similar meanings, but these are for a different purpose. I would like to build a ramp up into the mountainside and run in the tracks. We'll need to select a grade that's not too steep and rig pulleys to control the ore carts, but we'll save six months of tunneling. And we won't need as much timber."

"You are ambitious, half-meat. You make quota. Is that not enough?"

"When quota is exceeded, the guards receive rewards. Nabbatron is less cruel. The people have food, clothing, and a chance to see their children grow. If wanting these things makes me ambitious, then I must be guilty."

"And what do you get, ambitious food creature?" Frontra asked with a teasing click of her tongue. He laughed.

"I have long work trousers, good leather boots, two shirts, and a straw hat to protect me from the sun. What more could any slave want?"

"There was a time when you had more. I suspect you were once a creature of great wealth. And power," Frontra guessed.

"Too soon do you forget the teachings of Sherra, my mistress," Grey said. Frontra raised her eye-rings.

"Instruct me, one of great insight," she said.

"I know what it is to have much. And to have nothing," Grey said, setting aside his paperwork. "Much do I turn to the sacred teachings in my old age, and this I have learned; it is not the clothes you wear that gives wealth, but the strength in your heart. Gain is measured by the happiness of those you love. Power may be achieved one day and lost the next. Wisdom knows that power used selfishly destroys. Power used unselfishly builds worlds."

Frontra rocked back on her stool, clutching the scribbled pages in her claw. Pages that represented both wealth and power if properly applied. She dwelled carefully on his words.

"I must apologize to my friend," Frontra said. "You are indeed wise in the ways of Sherra. More so than many. I did not mean to make light of you."

"Let us not make too much of ourselves, my friend Frontra. We are all dust in the end."

Shalli entered the tent carrying a midday meal and knelt next to the cot.

"Thank you for sitting with him, mistress. He won't lie still unless watched at every moment," Shalli said with exasperation.

"Stubbornness is a difficult survival trait to overcome," Frontra confirmed.

Shalli didn't quite understand, but she rarely knew much of what the Arikhan spoke of. She fed Grey broth and half a loaf of wheat bread.

"The wound heals quickly. You'll be walking again by the rest day," Shalli advised, probing the stitches.

"It will be too late. The season ends on the rest day. We were ahead of schedule until the accident. With me trapped in this tent and our scaffold gone, there's little chance of earning Gamtro's reward," Grey complained.

Shalli looked at Frontra with a question. Frontra's eye-rings dipped.

"It is for Nabbatron to say," Frontra insisted.

"What is for Nabbatron to say?" Grey asked.

Little three-year-old Garn suddenly burst into the tent, jumping into Shalli's lap. His auburn hair was tousled, the bronze cheeks flushed. Shalli smiled. Frontra clicked her tongue and opened her arms. Garn went to sit on Frontra's knee without a trace of fear. Grey had seen Garn do this before, but it still amazed him. Noise from outside the tent indicated the workers were returning from the quarry, their voices excited. And then, abruptly, they fell silent.

"Nabbatron comes," Frontra said.

Shalli took Garn back from Frontra and put her forehead to the floor as Nabbatron entered Grey's tent.

"Leave us," Nabbatron ordered.

Shalli needed no urging, fleeing outside with Garn hugged close to her chest. But she didn't go far, stopping just outside the flap.

"Nothing has been said until now. I would not look a fool," Nabbatron said, standing above Grey's cot.

Grey wasn't afraid, but he was curious. The fearsome guard was behaving very strangely. Even Frontra was acting unusually, her eye-rings curled.

"None here would think you a fool," Frontra said.

"Your camps have exceeded quota by fifteen percent. The rewards are granted," Nabbatron announced.

"I do not see how that can be, master," Grey said, reaching for one of the production charts to see if he'd made an error.

"Nabbatron has taken your place in the quarry, Ben," Frontra said. "For several hours each day, he has wielded a jackhammer and loaded carts. The work proved difficult. Only this morning was the surplus confirmed."

Grey's expression of astonishment was obvious to both aliens. They exchanged glances of satisfaction.

"Do not thank me," Nabbatron ordered.

"I will thank you anyway, master," Grey said.

"You are impertinent. Do not think your weakened condition forbids punishment," Nabbatron warned.

"You did not call me food creature," Grey observed.

"The yarbel ky says your organs are tough. Your body has much muscle and no fat. You would not grace my table well," Nabbatron explained.

"I am sorry, master," Grey protested, "but I believe the yarbel ky is wrong. My flesh would prove most succulent if properly spiced."

The Arikhan sentries clicked their tongues rapidly in amusement. Outside the tent, Shalli was horrified by the conversation and made Garn run back to Myra.

"I have found a bottle of Lafarian wine," Nabbatron said. "Not as strong as mauck, but appropriate for one in your feeble condition. Would you try a taste?"

"Thank you, master," Grey said, passing Nabbatron his tin cup. Frontra stood up and left the tent, finding Shalli cowering outside.

"Come, child," Frontra said, taking Shalli away.

"I don't understand, mistress. Has Nabbatron become Ben's friend?" Shalli asked.

"No, Shalli, they are not friends. Nabbatron knows the day may come that he would send Ben to the pens. There is no confusion between them."

"Then what does it mean?" Shalli asked.

"Your people are food creatures. I am sorry to say it, but it is truth. Ben is not a food creature. Ben is a warrior, as is Nabbatron. There is no friendship, but there is respect. If Nabbatron kills Ben one day, his flesh will be dedicated to Sherra."

* * * * * *

Winter proved rainy enough that Grey was thankful for the extra clothing and tents. Sensitive to inclement weather, the Arikhan sentries were rarely in attendance, which disappointed no one. Work on the mines slowed but did not stop.

Having a tent of his own, Grey was able to work on his engineering drafts at all hours. Which he did.

"I have a plan," Grey said at the evening meal.

The camp was sitting cross-legged on straw mats around wooden tables cut from old mining timbers. The meal included fresh baked bread, greens, and small amounts of bulb root. The children laughed as they nibbled on succulent tubers, while the adults enjoyed creek water spiced with fermented blue wheat.

"You always have a plan," Clagg answered. "I once thought your plans would mean less work, but they always mean more work."

"We can give back the new furs. And the lanterns. Or the mauck ration," Grey suggested.

"What is your plan?" Clagg asked, smiling.

"Our quarry will last through the season," Grey replied. "In the summer, we'll blast a porch in the mountainside and build a slide down to the ore carts."

"You wanted an earthen ramp," Cot said.

"We don't have the resources," Grey said in disappointment. "In the meantime, it's possible to help Sparrow Camp. I've heard they're having trouble. Bear Camp might benefit, too."

"No. They haven't helped us," Cot instantly objected.

"There is much jealousy. They might betray us to Marne," Hernet said. "We're safe in our own zones. We won't be safe there."

"I don't want anyone from Ferret Camp involved. Only one person needs to come with me the first time. Just to make introductions. After that, I'll go myself," Grey said.

"It's too dangerous," Myra disagreed, setting aside her new sewing kit.

"I'm not afraid," Grey said, chewing on a bread roll with a trace of honey in it.

"That's the problem, you're never afraid when you should be," Clagg complained. "Hernet is right. If you try to help Sparrow Camp, they might give you to Marne."

Shalli studied Grey's expression, wondering if that's what he wanted. Ever since he had recovered from the wound, he had been working out in his secret hiding place harder than ever. Fighting ghosts with his hands, beating weed bales with his staff. If Marne was a phantom, Shalli thought, he could kill him easily. But Marne was not a phantom.

"Maybe Sparrow Camp won't be so angry if they make quota. Even if we fail, it would still be worth the effort," Grey said.

"If we fail? You are taking the risk, not any of us," Cot said, unhappy with his friend's lack of caution.

"It's my plan. The risk should be mine," Grey said.

"We'll think on it. I would like to speak with Nole and Sal to see what they say," Clagg insisted.

"The spring season will bring changes," Grey concluded.

"Do you read our future in the stars?" Hernet asked, passing a bowl of greens.

"There will be changes," Grey repeated. "I cannot promise if they will be good or bad, but they're coming. If they're bad, I hope you'll forgive me."

He stood up from the fire, ready for bed.

"You're going to Sparrow Camp whether we agree or not, aren't you?" Myra asked.

"Yes," Grey answered.

"Nabbatron is right about your stubbornness. You would make us angry if we didn't love you so much," Myra said, rising to give him a hug. Many around the fire nodded agreement, some tapping their cups with sticks.

"For a minor risk, many people might have better lives. I have placed my heart at Ferret Camp, but I must take that risk," Grey insisted.

"I'll talk with Nole," Clagg said. "Relations with Sparrow Camp were not always bad. Old Ravo may have a temper, but at times, he can be reasonable."

"Warn Nole there might be trouble," Grey said.

Grey's private tent was large enough for four people, the ground covered by thick grass mats. A low platform held a bed of comfortable furs. A round marble table, a gift from Frontra, held his pencils and paper. A solar lantern allowed him to work at night, which he always did. His files lay in a wood crate on the floor. A rope strung between two poles was used to hang extra shirts and a spare pair of pants.

Tired from a long day, Grey stripped off his clothes except for a light cotton vest, snuggled under the furs, and propped himself up with pillows to study the drawings he'd made of Sparrow Camp's mountain. A few minutes later, Shalli appeared at the entrance, inviting herself in.

"You're setting a trap, aren't you?" Shalli asked, sitting next to him.

"When word gets around that I'm negotiating with Sparrow Camp, the wolves will wonder what it's about. They may suspect I'm seeking protection, being a well-known coward. If they come looking for me in a group, I'll run away. Eventually they'll try lying in wait. The trail through the woods has many tempting areas, which will give me a chance to take them down one or two at a time."

"What if three catch you at once?" Shalli asked.

"That would be harder, but if I can find something to use as a weapon, it won't change the outcome. I once took down two Arikhan infantry with a hunting knife. Marne's bullies are much less skilled."

"Two masters? You killed two masters?"

"Shalli, be quiet. Do you want the whole camp to hear?"

Shalli settled down, but she was still shaken.

"I've heard stories, but I've never known of anyone who ... who did something like that," Shalli whispered.

"My world was at war. We fought to protect our people," he explained.

"Have you killed others? Other than the two with the knife?"

"We shouldn't talk of this. You'll just be upset."

"No, please. I'm sorry, but you surprised me. I've heard about wars. I know bad things happen. I want to know about you. Who you really are."

"No, you don't," he said, determined to change the subject.

"You think I'm just a stupid little girl, don't you? An ignorant slave," Shalli said, growing angry. "You don't think I can face real problems. But life in our camp is hard sometimes, and I've seen terrible things. Just not the same things you have. How can I learn if you won't teach me?"

Grey sensed she might be right. In the course of his life he had participated in many violent events. Known moments of fear and desolation. Would his experience help Shalli or hurt her? Did he have a right to make that decision?

Shalli watched him think, his brow furrowed as he remembered dark days from his secret past. She struggled to follow the train of emotions the memories evoked and realized they were painful. But he hadn't decided to say no.

Grey noticed the growing hope in her expression. It occurred to him that his wife's love had been strong but cooler, her emotions matured by her years as a combat pilot. She had been a soldier long before they met, toughened by a brutal war. Shalli's love was uninhibited. Free of scars. Grey wasn't sure if he should be flattered or frightened by Shalli's lack of restraint, and the thought was communicated clearly in his eyes. Shalli burst into a smile and kissed him.

"You're going to tell me, aren't you?" she said, slipping her legs under the furs.

"Some of it. Only some," he decided, knowing too much knowledge of his background would be dangerous for her. "As I said, my world was at war with the Arikhan. I was a soldier in that war, trained to fight from childhood. Not just to fight the masters, but anyone who stood in our way. I'm good at my profession, but it's never who I wanted to be."

"You wanted to be a builder, didn't you?" Shalli said.

"A builder. An explorer. I had many dreams. I hate war, but I also thrive on the challenges. Now I'm here, and it's impossible to ever go home. This is my world. If I have to fight for it, I will."

Shalli rested her head against his chest with a sigh. She was not disappointed.

"I think I understand," Shalli said, dwelling on his words. "You're like them. The masters. That's what Frontra was trying to tell me."

"No, I'm not like them. But I'm not completely different, either."

"Being a warrior means being a killer, doesn't it?"

"That's usually what it means. Should I not have spoken?"

"No. Speaking the truth is never wrong."

"I know this isn't what you expected. I would understand if you'd rather spend your time with someone else."

"You fool," Shalli said, cuddling close. "I may be frightened by your past, but it won't stop me from loving you."

"I wish it would," he sighed.

"I know you wish that, but it's not going to be that easy for you. I'll never let it be that easy."

She suddenly moved to a straddling position, kissing him passionately and rubbing him with her body. Then she pulled off her tunic and shook out her long blonde hair, letting it drop down in his face. She felt warm and firm, the curves delicately round. Her flesh soft. Inviting. He could feel her excitement. And his own.

"This is going too far," he protested, trying to still the movements of her hips.

"You want me," she whispered.

"It wouldn't be right," he said.

"Don't try to deny it."

"I can't deny it, but it still wouldn't be right."

She continued moving back and forth. Grey squirmed involuntarily. Shalli put her hands on his chest to hold him down.

"Stop that," he said, trying to wiggle out from under her.

"Take me, my love. Take me now," she insisted, leaning close.

Grey lifted her up with both hands and rolled over, putting Shalli on her back in the fur as he struggled for breath.

"I'm not so ready as you think," he said, holding her wrists to prevent more mischief.

"Next time you won't say no," Shalli confidently predicted, kissing him with acceptance of defeat. "May I dare to say something?"

"Dare, my wild ignorant slave girl," he laughed.

"Your plan to trap Marne can be better."

"In what way?"

"Let me speak with Tak. If she agrees, your plan will be better."

"You haven't said how," he asked, worried by her elusiveness.

Shalli used one of Grey's own tricks, smiling without responding. Then she laid back to fall asleep in his arms.

* * * * * *

Clagg and Nole decided to let Grey visit Sparrow Camp, mostly because they felt unable to stop him. They also agreed to let Shalli and Tak go along to make the introductions, but only for the first trip.

"I'm still uncomfortable with this," Grey said as they walked along a northbound trail through the woods toward Sparrow Camp.

"We must do this. Isn't that right, Tak?" Shalli said.

"I want to see the wolves stopped more than anything, and even Ben said it's a good idea," Tak agreed.

"I said your plan is clever. I never said it's a good idea," Grey corrected. "And don't think destroying the wolves will solve every problem. It won't. Revenge can have a sour taste."

"This isn't about revenge," Tak said, embracing Grey's arm. "Ar said he wanted to get me alone next time. Marne and Carp have said the same thing about Shalli. If they come lurking around by themselves, you'll have a better chance against them."

"You're fighting the wolves for us. For what they've done, and for what they keep doing. Is it wrong for us to want to help?" Shalli asked.

"It's not wrong, but I wish we had told Nole and Clagg," Grey said.

"If we told them, they would have said no," Shalli disagreed.

He knew she was right, and understood their need to participate. He would have felt no different at their age.

"Stay alert and be ready to run. You're the bait, not combatants. I don't want you in my way if trouble starts," Grey ordered.

"We promise," Shalli said.

They emerged from the brushy tree-lined trail into a large meadow. Sparrow camp lay on the other side, twice the size of Deer Camp, with a dozen fair sized tents surrounding a rough log cabin. Unlike Ferret Camp, the lake and gardens could be seen from a nearby rise.

"Hello Sparrow Camp," Tak called out from forty yards away.

Enjoying the rest day, the people stirred from their midday naps, moving to the edge of camp. A few picked up stools for clubs should they be needed.

"Who calls upon Sparrow Camp?" a voice yelled.

"That's Old Ravo, their leader," Shalli told Grey.

"Tak of Deer Camp comes to visit. With me are Shalli and Ben of Ferret Camp," Tak shouted.

"No others?" Ravo asked.

"None," Tak said.

"Come forward and visit," Old Ravo agreed.

Tak, Shalli, and Grey crossed through the meadow. Though the yellow grass was dry from winter, Grey thought the soil good. With water brought down from the hillside, it could be irrigated.

"What brings two beautiful girls and a coward to Old Ravo's camp? Are you ready to be made women? All three of you?" Ravo asked.

Sparrow Camp's leader was a stocky man with a barrel chest. He wore a dark red shirt and short black pants that barely covered his knees. His bushy gray beard was the first Grey had seen in a long time. He guessed Ravo to be in his early fifties, possibly the oldest man in Karak. Grey thought he looked like a Viking.

"No thank you, Sparrow Camp leader," Tak said, attractive in her long blue skirt, fur jacket and rawhide boots. She also wore a white stone necklace to remind everyone that she was the daughter of a camp leader.

"We haven't visited in a long time," Tak continued. "We should visit more. You have never met Ben. He wishes to speak with Sparrow Camp."

"Already have we heard the coward's words. His pleas for mercy were loud all the way from the lake," Barris said as many laughed.

Just a few years younger than Grey, Barris bore a resemblance to Ravo but was much slimmer. His dark brown hair matched his piercing brown eyes. His black short-sleeve shirt showed the well-crafted strength of his arms. Barris also had an intelligent look to him, unlike Ravo, who appeared crafty.

"He wears black hands better than Thal," a man jeered.

"I'm glad to have provided Sparrow Camp with entertainment," Grey said, accepting the insults with good humor.

Many laughed again while sizing the stranger up. Neither tall nor short, slender nor stocky. A sharp, predatory look in the steel gray eyes. And a light, muscular bounce in his walk, almost like a big cat. Some decided not to laugh too loudly.

"Are we welcome to join you? We've brought our own provisions if needed," Tak said, holding up a knapsack.

"Join us," Ravo said with a sweep of his thick calloused hand.

They entered the camp and followed Ravo past the log cabin to an area where tree stumps were set in a circle around a fire pit. An old oak tree provided a shadowy canopy. Only a few Sparrow Camp members joined them, most choosing to watch from their own cooking fires.

"Ben of Ferret Camp, this is Bynar, Ravo's much beloved wife, and Barris, Ravo's son," Tak introduced.

Grey saw Bynar was older, too, her features much like Beknar, with long hair that was growing gray and bronze skin beginning to wrinkle. He wondered if they were cousins. Bynar's brown tunic showed a trim figure, the green eyes pleasant but worried. The woman smiled while saying nothing.

"The youngster is Rat, Ravo's nephew," Tak said, pointing to a scrawny twelve-year-old. "The big stupid looking oafs are Pixx and Jasper, team leaders of the dig. Sparrow Camp, this is Ben, a member of Ferret Camp and friend to Deer Camp. It was Ben who gave us the quarry."

Like the dig leaders of Ferret and Deer Camps, Pixx and Jasper were big men, simply dressed and loyal to their leader. Pixx wore his curly brown hair short with a trimmed beard. Jasper's straight black hair hung free down to his shoulders, his chin clean shaven. Both had tattoos of pick axes on their upper arms. Grey pitied the nephew, for he looked aptly named.

"A quarry your camp does not share," Ravo gruffly said as everyone sat down.

"You haven't been our friends," Shalli was quick to say.

"It's hard to be friends with those who have so many enemies," Barris replied.

"If we had more friends, we would not have so many enemies," Shalli responded.

"And you would have shared our quarry," Tak added.

"We do not consort with cowards," Barris said.

"You lick Marne's ass," Shalli accused, contemptuously flipping her hair over her shoulder.

"He's not so bad," Barris weakly defended.

"You've never been dragged to his torment pit," Tak said, staring angrily.

"Maybe you were asking for it?" Barris suggested.

Grey suddenly stood up, his eyes focused on Barris. A furious snarl curled his lip and a low, guttural objection rose from his throat. His fists were clenched, his position poised, the heart pumping with an adrenaline rush.

Barris, Pixx, and Jasper quickly jumped up, expecting the coward to retreat. They were surprised when Grey set himself, his eyes selecting which enemies to strike first. Tak took hold of his arm, tugging to make him sit down. Grey reluctantly stepped back but did not relax his stance.

"Allow me to apologize," Grey said, taking a breath to regain composure. "We've come to visit. It's rude for a guest to cause trouble. But if any of you, or all three of you, would like to go into the woods, I will not be a guest there."

He continued to stand, waiting for their response, more than ready to try his luck in the woods. Ravo watched the confrontation with interest. The coward wasn't what he expected.

"This Ben does not look afraid to me," Bynar finally said, breaking the tension. "Barris, apologize to Tak. Such words to a guest are shameful. Pixx, Jasper, sit down. This isn't your fight. Or does it take all three of you to fight one visitor? One you have called a coward."

"Hah!" Ravo shouted, clapping his hands together. "Does anyone speak so clearly as my Bynar? Barris, sit down before you make an fool of yourself. Pixx, Jasper, control your tempers or leave my fire."

All three men returned to their stools, Pixx and Jasper embarrassed. Barris was still startled by Grey's challenge. Grey remained standing, looking to Barris for the anticipated apology.

"I'm sorry, Tak. My words were rude," Barris said sincerely.

"Thank you, Barris," Tak graciously accepted.

Grey sat down, causing Shalli to let out a relieved sigh. Ravo noted the smitten look in Shalli's eyes, as Bynar had, and guessed something was brewing there.

"May we offer a midday meal?" Bynar offered.

"That would be nice," Shalli said, still shaken by the confrontation.

"Let us help," Tak said, the women leaving so the men could speak more frankly.

"My son apologized, but our grievances are real," Ravo said.

"I've not come so far on the rest day to hear old wounds," Grey said, unimpressed.

"Why have you come?" Pixx asked.

"To ask if Sparrow Camp wants a quarry like Ferret and Deer Camps," Grey explained. The men looked interested but suspicious.

"Is such a thing possible?" Jasper asked.

"I would need to survey your mine and test the ore," Grey said.

"We don't let anyone into our mine," Jasper immediately objected.

"Then I cannot help you," Grey said, rising from his stool.

"Exceptions have been made," Ravo quickly said, holding up his hand until Grey returned to his seat. "Do you believe it would be worthwhile?"

"My studies indicate the same veins running through Deer Camp's mountain run through yours," Grey said. "We would search for the most promising area and use small explosives to burrow in. If we find the ore we want, we'll blow a hole in the mountain and bring it down."

"And what do you demand in exchange for this magic? Our tents? Our women?" Pixx asked.

Grey took a moment to study the dig leaders. Pixx was about thirty years old, strong but getting used up in the mines. Somewhat younger, Jasper had a more pleasant expression. Neither seemed especially bright, but Grey had no intention of underestimating them.

"Ferret Camp has new tents and many women," Grey said.

"Maybe he wants protection from Marne?" Barris sneered.

"How could someone who licks Marne's ass protect me?" Grey asked. "Would you suckle him on my behalf?"

Barris flushed with anger. Ravo laughed. Pixx and Jasper smiled, already reevaluating the strange visitor.

"I have made no demands of Sparrow Camp," Grey said. "If we're unsuccessful, nothing is expected. If successful, then Sparrow Camp may speak with Clagg to decide what rewards are shared."

"That sounds fair," Jasper said.

"More than fair," Pixx said. "What should we do to get ready?"

"Shouldn't Sparrow Camp's leader have a voice in the decision?" Ravo interrupted. "Is there to be no debate?"

Jasper and Pixx felt chastised for their presumption. Barris appeared ready to object, but held back when Ravo cast him a discerning glance.

"Have your debate. We can talk again after the winter season," Grey said, starting to get up again.

"Wait! It doesn't hurt to discuss what plans are needed," Pixx urged, half out of his seat.

"Leaders of the dig must know what to expect," Jasper added just as strongly.

Grey paused, looking toward Ravo. The shrewd old goat responded with a sly grin. He knew Grey had no intention of walking away after having taken so much trouble to arrange the meeting.

"We can go over a few details," Grey said, retaking his seat.

"That's a beginning," Ravo said. "Where is Rat?"

"Here, uncle," Rat answered, the boy emerging from behind Pixx and Jasper where he had been hiding.

"Run to Bynar. Have her bring a pitcher of mauck. We're going to be here for a while," Ravo instructed.

A few hours later, Tak, Shalli, and Grey were on the trail going south, their business with Sparrow Camp concluded.

"Will you make them a quarry?" Shalli asked.

"It's possible. Ravo needs time to decide," Grey answered.

"Marne will be jealous. He might cause trouble," Tak suggested.

"Marne should be jealous. Sparrow Camp's mountain has rich potential. I don't think the good ore runs as far north as Wolf Camp," Grey speculated.

"Be careful, Ben. Ravo isn't trustworthy," Tak warned.

"Don't worry, I have no intention of trusting anybody," he replied.

They walked through the woods for nearly a kilometer enjoying the wintry forest. Occasional brooks and clearings crossed their path. Grey noticed that none of the trees were stout enough for the mines, the more robust timber having been depleted.

"Deer Camp is around the next bend, just past the creek," Tak said.

"I didn't see anyone trying to follow us," Shalli mentioned, looking back but trying to be subtle. The growth was thick in spots, sparse in others. A soft wind rustled the branches.

"Someone is nearby, moving parallel in the trees on the left," Grey whispered. "He's been stalking us since we left the ore tracks."

"Is it Marne?" Shalli asked.

"Not big enough. Maybe Logis or Carp," Grey guessed. "Let's stop in the next clearing. If you see movement in the trees, run for camp."

"Are you sure there's only one?" Shalli asked.

"Just be ready," Grey said.

The women tried not to appear concerned. Grey fell back a few paces and picked up a flat stone, clutching it close to his side. When they reached the creek, the sound of breaking branches close by put everyone on alert. He turned slowly, trying to look afraid so the attack wouldn't be discouraged. The plan was soon ruined.

"Shalli! Ben! There you are," Clagg shouted, coming up the trail from Deer Camp. With him were Nole, Sal, Hernet, and Turk.

"Tak, what's taken all day?" Nole asked, hugging his daughter.

Grey glanced back into the trees and thought he saw a movement, but it was going in the opposite direction. And fast. It may have been no one. Or the wolf that got away.

* * * * * *

As the winter season progressed, Myra and the mated women of Ferret Camp struggled to cultivate their garden, the seven of them not enough for the task. Missing Shalli, Pie, and fourteen-year-old Keep was causing them to fall behind. Myra was surprised one morning to see Bynar, Lupet, and Loto of Sparrow Camp approach for the first time in more than a year. Their brown tunics were better than those found in the southern camps, but not remarkably better.

"We would like to help irrigate your winter wheat," Bynar said, bundled in a red shawl against a cold breeze.

"Winter wheat is difficult this year with the water pump broken," Myra said.

"Ben has spent many days at Sparrow Camp when he could have been working Ferret Camp's mine. It's only fair," Lupet said.

Lupet smiled when she saw Myra. Close in age, they had grown up together at the desert camp and lost their fathers at the same time, making recent separations more difficult. Loto was young and attractive, her long golden brown hair tied back. Bait for the wolves if she hadn't been mated to Jasper. Nevertheless, it troubled Myra that Bynar would risk her in the gardens.

"We accept your help," Myra agreed.

The women dispersed to their duties, Bynar staying close to Myra as they prepared a new irrigation trench. Though Bynar was fifteen years older than Myra, both were the wives of camp leaders. They understood each other.

"Ravo thinks Sparrow Camp will make quota this season," Bynar said.

"I'm glad for your people. Winter season is always the hardest with weather so poor," Myra said. "Clagg expects us to make quota again, thank Sherra. The Spring Festival will be joyful this year."

"Ben has made many small tunnels searching for the best ore. The signs are good. He says we'll soon have our own quarry," Bynar related.

"Ben is very smart. He knows the mountain," Myra answered.

"Bear Camp wants a quarry. They've come to visit Ravo on days when Ben is away. They ask Ravo to speak for them."

"I'd like Bear Camp to have a quarry. They've been better friends than some, but Ferret Camp needs Ben. We have quotas, too," Myra said, echoing Clagg's thoughts.

"Marne visited our camp yesterday," Bynar mentioned.

Myra stopped her work to listen. She had thought Bynar had arrived seeking favors. Now she realized that wasn't the case.

"Marne says strangers shouldn't be invading Sparrow Camp and making changes. He says we have a good mine and should be content," Bynar explained. "Marne says camps that make quota should share with Wolf Camp, which has not made quota."

"Maybe they would make quota if they worked harder," Myra responded.

"This is true, but Ravo dares not say it. Marne had five wolves with him. Ben was there, too, kept distant by Pixx and Jasper. Marne was not prepared to violate camp hospitality, so he shouted at Ben instead. He said if Ben didn't share his quarries with Wolf Camp, he would be lashed and bound for Gronar's pleasure."

"What disgusting animals they are," Myra whispered in outrage. "What did Ben say?"

"Ben did not speak, but he made a gesture with his hand. I don't know what the gesture meant, but I'm sure it was an insult. Marne thought so, too. Later, after all the visitors were gone, the men discussed if they should give Ben to Marne after the quarry is made."

"And some have called Ben a coward. I'm sorry, Bynar, but your men stink of fear."

"It's true of many these days, but not all. Barris hasn't been a friend to Ben, but now he resents Marne even more. Much has Ravo been forced to pull him in. I like Ben. He's kind to the children. I'll feel sad when Marne catches him."

"I fear that day, too. But what can be done? Ben won't stay within our camp as he should. He can't help Deer Camp or Sparrow Camp by hiding."

"I've said this to Ravo, but he wants the quarry. All of the men want the quarry," Bynar sadly reported. "There is other bad news. Ar and Carp were with Marne. They say Shalli and Tak have been too long from the gardens. That it shows disrespect. They say if they don't see them in the fields soon, they'll see them someplace else. Ar slapped his hands together in a foul way."

"This is bad, but I've expected it. Thank you for the warning, Bynar."

"I'm sorry we haven't been friends, Myra. Women shouldn't lose friendships because men play cruel games."

"Maybe someday it will be better," Myra hoped.

"There is a question I would ask about Ben," Bynar requested.

"No one knows much about him. Even in our own camp, Ben is a mystery."

"Is he a coward?"

"I don't think so."

"Some men still call him a coward, though few who work with him truly believe it. Ben never denies it. I know he's quiet, but why doesn't he deny it?"

"Ben is afraid of many things. He's afraid the children will go hungry. He's afraid the camp won't have adequate supplies. He's afraid Shalli's love for him will someday hurt her. He's afraid the masters will turn against us. Maybe that's why he thinks he's a coward?"

"All men who love their camps have these fears. Does Ben not understand this?" Bynar asked.

"Not all men feel they can control the future," Myra said. "They pray to Sherra and hope for the best. In this way, Ben is different. What Ben prays for, he expects to get."

* * * * * *

"Ben! We have introductions!" Ravo shouted.

Fifty yards away, from a small chemical-filled tent pitched in the meadow, Grey slipped through the flap and crossed a warning line of torn rags toward Sparrow Camp.

"Ben, this is Jarten of Bear Camp and Seeak, his dig leader," Ravo said. "They've been asking about a quarry."

Grey found a square-shouldered man about his height and age, curly chestnut hair with sky blue eyes and a friendly smile, which he assumed was the Bear Camp leader. The muscular man next to him was short, dark and surly, unhappy to be begging favors. Full leather outfits, now beginning to fray, indicated a camp less prosperous than it once was.

"They haven't been asking me," Grey said, having received no greeting.

"Marne said they shouldn't speak to you," Ravo said.

"Then let Marne make a quarry for them," Grey replied, abruptly returning to the tent in the meadow through the yellow grass.

"Ben's in a bad mood today," Ravo apologized to his guests. "Barris, go ask Ben if he will speak with Bear Camp."

"If Ben wanted to speak with Bear Camp, he would not have walked away," Barris said.

"Tell him I would be grateful," Ravo urged.

"I will ask him," Barris agreed.

Following Grey to the canvas laboratory, Barris entered gently, as instructed many times. Numerous chemicals and mixing containers were laid out on the workbench, the bottles labeled in Arikhan. Grey sat on a tall stool wearing a leather apron with thin doe skin gloves protecting his hands.

"You shouldn't be here. It's dangerous," Grey said without looking up.

"The task doesn't go well?" Barris asked.

"It could take several more days. The chemical bases are dried out and the mixing solutions are unstable. I'm concerned that even a slight movement may set them off."

"Set them off?"

"If the chemicals combine in a bad way, they could explode, like the blasts we used to make the burrows," Grey said. Barris took a step toward the door.

"Would they not explode you, too?" Barris asked.

"That's what I'm trying to avoid," Grey said, squinting as he added more solution to a bowl of clear goop.

Barris scratched his head, wondering why the danger didn't concern Grey as it might concern others.

"If I must be exploded, it could happen in worse company," Barris said, moving close to the table.

"Let's try not to get exploded," Grey said with a smile.

"Ravo said he would be grateful if you would speak with Bear Camp."

"Grateful? I've not heard Ravo use such a word before."

"It's not common," Barris agreed.

"I will speak with Bear Camp," Grey said, storing the chemicals as best he could.

A few minutes later, the leaders of Sparrow Camp and Bear Camp were sitting around a council fire under the old oak tree. Grey was offered the head seat but declined.

"We've heard Sparrow Camp will make quota," Jarten said.

"We made quota yesterday, and with five days left in the season," Ravo bragged. "We didn't have time to make the quarry, but Ben created tunnels for us. With our quarry, the spring season will be better."

Ravo was happy, his camp filled with optimism.

"We aren't going to make quota," Jarten said. "Neither will Squirrel Camp. I don't believe any of the northern camps will make quota. There's much dissatisfaction."

"Is it Sparrow Camp's fault there is dissatisfaction?" Barris asked.

"No, but it's still there," Jarten said. "Bear Camp would like a quarry, but we don't want to anger Marne. To have a quarry made, we would be friends with Ben and Ferret Camp. But to befriend Ferret Camp is to make enemies in Wolf Camp. We come to you, Old Ravo, for your wisdom."

Ravo smiled, his yellow teeth shining through the gray beard.

"We'll have much reward for making spring quota," Ravo bragged. "That's why I bribed Marne to leave Ben alone until the end of season."

Grey looked at Ravo in surprise. For months he had waited for the anticipated ambush that never came, and at last he knew why. He was not pleased. Barris noted the expression and was curious, wondering why Grey appeared so angry.

"Perhaps Bear Camp can bribe Marne to leave Ben alone during spring season?" Ravo suggested. "In return, Ben might make a quarry for Bear Camp."

"Don't bother," Grey said, suddenly standing up. "I need to make a new quarry for Ferret Camp. I've promised one to Sparrow Camp. If all goes well, I'll try to help Bear Camp. But no one is to bribe Marne on my behalf. It's unacceptable. Old Ravo, though I respect you, you have disappointed me greatly."

Grey left the council fire despite an attempt to call him back. Many were mystified.

"We've heard he is much afraid of Marne. Why does he reject your protection?" Seeak asked, the voice a growling baritone.

"I don't know. I thought he would be thankful," Ravo said, baffled by Grey's reaction.

"How little you understand him, father," Barris said. "Ben isn't afraid of Marne. He doesn't fear Marne's wolves. He doesn't fear the mountain. You've presumed upon his honor."

"Honor will not protect him from the wolves," Ravo said without apology. "If I must bribe Marne to get my quarry, I'll bribe him. And if I must trade Ben to the wolves to protect Sparrow Camp, then I'll trade him. If you are to lead a camp someday, you must know to make these decisions."

"Isn't it more important for a leader to keep faith with his friends?" Barris asked.

"My son, a good leader has no friends," Ravo answered.

* * * * * *

On the last day of winter season, the people of Sparrow Camp huddled in the meadow. With them were five Arikhan sentries including Nabbatron and Frontra. All looked toward a gorge fifteen meters above the canyon floor where valuable ore strains had been discovered.

"With quota and a quarry, Sparrow Camp will have much to celebrate during spring festival," Frontra said, addressing Ravo, Pixx, and Jasper.

"Three days of meat and mauck are worth a celebration, mistress. We thank you for the bounty," Pixx said.

"You are fortunate to have the half-meat's help," Nabbatron said to Ravo. "It is said that Ferret Camp is displeased by his absence."

"I believe the southern camps will have other worries before long, master," Ravo answered.

Frontra overheard the remark and raised an eye-ring, but said nothing. It was not her place to interfere.

"The mountain explodes!" Jasper shouted as a loud boom echoed from the canyon.

A powerful vibration and the sound of bursting rock accompanied the blast. Hundreds of birds flew away as trees were thrown from the hillside and boulders crashed down into the gully that divided their zone from Deer Camp's. Within seconds, a plume of dust churned high into the morning sky, drifting east above the compound.

"We have a quarry!" Ravo announced somewhat prematurely.

Barris rushed forward into the gully first, followed by the men, then the women, the entire camp braving the dirt-choked air to inspect the fresh ore. The Arikhan guards lingered behind before starting back to their post at the main gate.

"What did Old Ravo mean?" Frontra asked.

"I do not ask such questions of food creatures, but the half-meat may have seen his last sunrise," Nabbatron speculated.

"Marne's reputation is much afflicted by your camps, Frontra," Bortro reported, his girth grown wider with better days. "It is said the wolf creatures intend a reckoning."

"Much has this day been feared," Frontra said. "It is sad. I am fond of Ben. The creature is like no other I have known."

"It was impertinent," Nabbatron said.

"That was part of the creature's charm," Frontra contended.

"I suppose you are right," Nabbatron agreed, clicking his tongue in sympathy.

For the next few hours, Sparrow Camp roamed through the new quarry that filled the canyon floor, often stopping to stare up at the gaping hole where the rock had been blasted out. By early afternoon, they were satisfied that several seasons of excellent ore had been brought down within easy reach.

Brushing dust off his work shirt, Grey walked through the debris field, studying samples with a frown. Barris thought he was looking for something special but not finding it.

"You look disappointed," Barris said.

"I hoped for more variety. Still, this field should prove adequate," Grey explained.

"It's magic," Barris said.

"It's science. A science that was practiced here long ago."

"Could you teach me to do it?" Barris asked.

"It's not hard to learn, provided you're not prone to mistakes."

They walked toward the mouth of the canyon only to find the people had all vanished. Everyone except Ravo, Pixx, and Jasper.

"This isn't good," Barris whispered to Grey.

"Care to be more specific?" Grey asked.

"Marne was here last night. He argued with my father."

"Perhaps your father is not so grateful after all?" Grey suggested.

"When we reach the meadow, I'll distract them. Run for Deer Camp. Run as fast as you can. Only Jasper can run, and not very fast."

"We haven't been friends," Grey said.

"That doesn't make this right," Barris answered.

"Thanks for warning me, but I'm not running. Is it four against one?"

"No. I can't help you, but I'm not going to help them, either. Father knows how I feel. I'm sure that's why he didn't tell me."

"Stay back. I'll try not to hurt anyone," Grey offered.

"I don't understand," Barris questioned.

"You will," Grey said, quickening his pace.

Barris slowed to a walk, noticing that Grey approached the group nonchalantly despite knowing their intentions. He didn't know if it was courage or stupidity. Does Ben think he'll talk them out of it? Barris wondered. Appeal for sympathy? If so, he doesn't know Ravo.

"Are you pleased with your quarry, Old Ravo?" Grey asked.

"Very pleased," Ravo said, his feet solidly braced, arms crossed over his chest.

"And you, my friends of Sparrow Camp, are you satisfied?" Grey asked Pixx and Jasper.

"You have been true to your word. None can say different," Pixx replied.

"Much does Sparrow Camp owe you appreciation. I pray Sherra that you can forgive us, my small friend," Jasper said with a sad expression.

"In what manner should you be forgiven?" Grey asked.

"Marne has demanded a third of our quarry. Or you. We will not give up a third of our quarry," Ravo said.

Pixx and Jasper slowly shifted around Grey's flanks. Grey watched their shadows on the scrub-covered ground as he turned toward Ravo.

"Marne will not treat me kindly," Grey said, shifting a step to adjust his positioning.

"I did my best to urge mercy for you. Indicated the many ways you could help Wolf Camp. Marne's ears are closed," Ravo replied with regret.

"This is disappointing news indeed. Much have I enjoyed the company of Sparrow Camp. It's been a privilege to make a quarry for you," Grey said.

"We, too, have made a fondness, but this cannot be helped. The wolves must have tribute or our women will not be safe in the gardens. It's you they demand," Ravo said.

"Much is it easy to present a demand. Harder is it to collect," Grey responded.

Grey's left hand lashed out so quickly the motion was just a blur, the back of his fist smashing Jasper in the face. Blood spurted from the tall man's broken nose as he staggered backward. Grey wheeled around and kicked Pixx between the thighs, the motion executed with forceful precision. A thrust kick caught Pixx in the gut as he doubled over, then a flying roundhouse kick to the head put him down.

Spinning back on Jasper, Grey rabbit punched him in the kidney before delivering a powerful right hook to the chin, sending the hefty dig leader into the dirt. In hardly an instant, both Pixx and Jasper lay moaning on the ground. Grey whirled around to face Ravo, who hadn't moved.

"You are fast, and you know how to fight," Ravo realized.

"That's true," Grey agreed.

"You only pretended to be a coward."

"It seemed a wise choice at the time."

"I'm a strong fighter, better than Jasper or Pixx, and you won't take me by surprise," Ravo warned. "But I'm slow. Maybe you should run?"

"I don't think so," Grey said.

"You won't run?"

Grey glanced back at Barris, who stood ten meters away, watching but not interfering.

"I don't like running away. I'll stay and fight with my friend Ravo," Grey said.

"I'm twice your size," Ravo warned.

"Women find me more attractive," Grey replied.

"You will not run away?"

"Not today."

Ravo frowned and charged, his arms outstretched to grab Grey before he could defend himself. Grey sidestepped at the last moment, gripped Ravo's right arm, and used a judo throw to flip him upside down. Ravo crashed heavily to the hard ground, the impact leaving him breathless. Grey shifted to one side, feet braced and fists ready to continue the battle, but Ravo remained on his back staring at the sky, making no effort to get up. Grey approached cautiously and knelt beside him.

"You fight well. I was very frightened by the ferocity of your attack," Grey said.

"It's good to know that I'm feared," Ravo moaned, still wheezing.

"Would you like to fight some more?" Grey asked.

"No, I will rest here for awhile," Ravo responded.

Barris came forward, kneeling on the other side. Pixx and Jasper lay groaning, neither getting up.

"Are you all right, father?" Barris asked.

"I'm resting. It was a good fight," Ravo answered.

"I've learned a valuable lesson today about leadership," Barris said. "Sometimes it's better to keep faith with your friends. Especially if your friends make dangerous enemies."

"It's a wise lesson," Ravo said, slowly sitting up and rubbing his back.

Grey checked to make sure Ravo wasn't injured before going to Pixx, who lay curled in a ball.

"How fares my friend?" Grey asked.

"Impaired. Few will be the women entertained in my tent during the spring festival," Pixx groaned. He glanced up at Grey, looking at him without anger. "I'm grateful you didn't break my arms. I never wanted to be your enemy."

"I know," Grey said, patting him on the shoulder before going to Jasper.

"The bent nose looks good, my friend. The women will flock to you," Grey praised.

"Could you not have broken Pixx's nose instead?" Jasper sniffled, blood still running down his face.

"I kicked Pixx where it hurts most," Grey replied.

"A broken nose is not so bad. I didn't want to be your enemy, either. But Ravo is our leader. He has been leader for as long as anyone remembers."

"Ravo is a good leader, but even a good leader can make mistakes," Grey said.

Grey turned back. Ravo noticed his expression had transformed from genial adversary to one capable of great brutality. The gray eyes were cold. The brow bent. The half-smile on his lips changed to a thin, mirthless line.

"Hear me well, Old Ravo, for this will only be said once," Grey warned. "Do not make this mistake again. Next time, I will not be your friend."

* * * * * *

The confrontation with the Wolves has been building for months, and they finally go too far. There will be lasting results for Ferret Camp, Karak, and even the Arikhan overseers. Stay tuned for Chapter Five, Blood and Promises.