Salutia: Roads to Ragnor

By Cyan Hobbs

Seven years after Liberation Day, life within Salutia is bustling. Taking over leadership is harder than Malcom anticipated, but despite the stress of running the safest place in the New World, he and Lyle are still searching for John’s daughter Kali in the hopes of bringing her home.

Kali is alive and thriving in the New World. But, she, as well as her two good friends, Bentley and Chayton, are deeply involved in the threats of Ragnor, King Sebastian’s kingdom. What dark intentions will come between Malcom and his mission? What new creatures has Sebastian brought to the New World in the last seven years? When the new threats reveal themselves, how will Malcom bring John’s wish to reality?

• Language: English
• Publisher: Page Publishing, Inc.
• Release date: Jan 27, 2022
• ISBN: 9781662452659

Book preview

Chapter 1

Within a dark, dank muddy corridor, secrets were trafficked back and forth. Underneath a castle lay a labyrinth of tunnels. The only light within the tunnels came from glowing slugs stuck to the walls. Kali walked silently with two boys, Bentley and Chayton, all three cloaked themselves in dark hoods, keeping their identities to themselves for when they would enter the city of Ragnor. The small passage was cold and almost suffocating. Very little sound was heard from above or in any direction. But this was a tunnel the three had taken many times. They were quite familiar with its twists and turns. They’d been doing this for years, since the big earthquake which freed them from the work zone. It had been seven years since that day.

The girl held her hand up, stopping the two boys behind her.

A snake is in the wall…, she whispered, smoothing back her auburn flyaways from her face. Chayton, the larger boy, placed his ear to the dirt wall, listening. A low sound like a faraway earthquake vibrated the tunnel, making each of them clench their fists nervously.

Chayton…how far away is it? Kali asked, tying back her hair. Chayton leaned his ear on the wall. He rubbed his fingers to the dirt tunnel wall and listened. His long dark straight hair was tied behind him as well, though dirt fell into it, making him cringe. Each of the three were filthy. Bentley, the older, leaner young man spoke up before Chayton could answer.

Kali, we don’t have time to stop for every murmur in the walls. We’re underground. It’s probably just a rabbit.

Kali whipped her head back to her friend, her eyes gleaming with irritation.

Better to be safe than sorry, Bentley. One of these days it really will be a snake, she hissed at him. The young platinum blond man rolled his eyes as a rabbit poked its head out from the wall. He looked to Kali with a bored expression.

And if it were a snake, it would have bitten your smug face, she grumbled.

But it wasn’t, so can we just move on? Bentley asked with a smirk as it shoved its head back into the wall.

Luckily nobody’s smug face is bitten today. Let’s all get along, Chayton said softly, walking next to Kali. He touched her arm.

Rabbits aren’t much better. If they keep burrowing around, we might have a cave-in.

Kali nodded, pulling her hood tightly over her head. Not sure what we can do about it at this point. We’ll figure that out later, she grumbled. Bentley huffed next to her.

They finally reached the end of the tunnel. A wooden trapdoor was directly above them. Kali ran her fingers across the top, dust falling onto her face. She was getting taller. Last time she couldn’t reach the door.

Chayton, help me up, Kali said to the boy standing beside her. He was quite a bit taller. His brown eyes scanned her with a warm smile.

Yes, ma’am, he said easily, bending down. Bentley crossed his arms.

I can lift you, he offered with a smile. Kali didn’t look at him. She wasn’t falling for that again. Once his fingers were around her legs, he always squeezed, making her jerk or laugh even though she hated it. She was too old to be messed with, damn it. But he refused to show her the respect she wanted.

No, thank you, she said coldly, sitting on Chayton’s shoulder as he lifted her up. She opened the trapdoor, taking a few moments to look at the surface.

Bentley placed his hands on his hips, shifting his weight to one side and blowing a snowy lock out of his face.

Okay, all clear, push me up.

Chayton tucked his hands under her legs, lifting her up and out the trapdoor. Kali turned around, reaching her arm out to help him up. Although at sixteen he was significantly larger than her, Kali had little trouble pulling the young man up and through. Once Bentley was up, they each ducked low under an enormous row of bleachers. A crowd was deafening all around them, though the wood from inside the seats muffled much of it. Kali looked through a small hole in the wood and stared out among a large arena where people fought to the death. Blood poured from a man’s beheaded neck as another fighter shouted in victory.

Barbaric. Idiotic men fighting for the praises of their fake king. At least it isn’t slaves fighting this time, Kali spat, backing away from the hole.

Those are pretty big words for someone so young. Maybe this is the life we should be trying to achieve. I bet you’d make pretty fast advance in Zalidya’s army, Bentley joked. Kali scrunched her face in disgust.

Don’t even fool around like that. The day I’ll be happy is the day that crazy woman gets hers. That’s all I’m saying. Let’s go, Kali insisted, readying herself to lead them to the rescue of the month. A young redheaded girl had been taken the previous night. Kali was sure they’d taken her to the soldiers’ barracks. Though, she might have been moved to the castle by now. They needed to make it in time for the decision on her placement.

The King’s Castle in Ragnor had changed quite a lot in seven years. Kali, Bentley, and Chayton had all been slaves within those walls. Once the angels left, everyone was confused. The camp full of children was rounded up by wayward slaves who had been freed as well. Life for a child was a living hell out here without parents. Kali wanted to save as many as she could. The three of them had been lucky to escape.

Before we go, Chayton pulled a folded-up paper from his back pocket, smoothing it out to show the others, I’ve been finding these all over lately. What do you make of it?

Come to Salutia, the paper said in bold letters. The safest place on earth will help you find your forever home in the New World, Chayton read. They must be trying to get as many people to go to Salutia as possible.

It was signed Malcom Leary.

Seems like a trick. There’s no safe place in the New World. This is probably a ploy to con people into feeling safe before stabbing them in the back. You can bet I’ll never go there, Kali promised, scratching her chin.

Bentley shrugged and Chayton nodded, tossing the paper on the ground.

*****

This is Salutia! Here we are free! And because of this freedom, I do not wish to be a plumber.

Malcom looked up from his long list of things he needed to accomplish that day. His bright green eyes looked almost bored as the man in front of him crossed his thick, hairy arms to his chest. His round face was turned upward in defiance, a layer of stubble speckling his chin and neck.

Mr. Rodregez, he began, tapping a pencil to his chin, you are a master plumber. We need a plumber in Salutia. So until you train someone else to take over for you, I’m afraid you’re going to be on call for all plumbing needs. I’ve gone over this with you multiple times, and if you would just find an apprentice—

No. Alan told me I could do whatever I want. I want to take care of the crops, like I did before, Rodregez said insistently, taking a sip of wine from a glass. His home was slightly on the messier side with random items strewn about as well as unwashed wineglasses on almost every surface. Lyle stood in the doorway, leaning against a wall. A smirk curled up on his lips. Malcom was getting irritated.

Alan was the scout leader for all of a year at most in Salutia before we became topside. For the subsequent seven years, I have been running nearly everything. I’m afraid you’ll have to follow my rules now, Mr. Rodregez, because I’m beginning to lose my patience with you, he said into his clipboard.

The man before him was chunky, unlike most folks in the New World. His dark sweaty curls stuck to his face. He gave off an odor, much to Malcom’s dismay. He supposed soap was only a suggestion, after all.

All right then… I want an extra punch card every week.

Malcom finally looked up from his notes, his face serious and focused. His brown hair was neatly combed as it hung at the sides of his face. He blew a strand from his eyes, not taking his sights off Rodregez.

Excuse me? he asked darkly. The plumber didn’t seem fazed by his irritation. Malcom thought himself a patient and understanding individual. This person was testing him.

I am the only plumber in Salutia. You want that service so badly—it will cost you. I won’t tell anyone. I understand you need to keep appearances and all. I just want to be compensated, he said confidently. Malcom placed his clipboard on the counter next to him. He eyed up the large man and smiled less than warmly.

So what you’re asking for, if I’m understanding this correctly, is for special treatment to do the job that I’ve asked you to do and will otherwise refuse to do said job if I don’t comply with your demands? he said in a deep tone. Lyle smiled wider from the doorway.

Rodregez looked over to the quiet man, more than slightly afraid of him as most people were.

I know my worth! Don’t try and tell me otherwise. It’s that, or I’ll not be fixing any piping in Salutia, he said assuredly. His eyes shot to Lyle again who remained still in the doorway.

Oh, don’t worry about him. He won’t do anything to you, Malcom said, rubbing the back of his head. It would have been only too easy to use Lyle as a means to bully difficult citizens into behaving. But that didn’t solve much.

Rodregez visibly relaxed with that information. Malcom sighed, tapping his fingers on his clipboard.

But you know…this is a business problem. If you want to talk only business, I have to say… I might just decide to go another way. You’re the only plumber in Salutia…but then I’ve never looked for another. It’s positively impossible to run a city without a plumber…so we might have to say goodbye to this arrangement…

Malcom’s voice was quiet. His face left no trace of holding anything back. Rodregez seemed confused.

You…you would kick me out of Salutia? he asked, his sweaty face somehow getting glossier. Malcom blew through his lips.

Oh, no, Mr. Rodregez, never. But you may have to move to a less cushy location. I understand you get a nice view of the sunrise from your kitchen? It’s directly in the center of town, which is the perfect place for a plumber. Quick access to every other house, not to mention the sewer system. You won’t need such a location if you manage crops. That would be a nice selling point for my new plumber. Actually, you might be forced to live in the refugee center for a few months while we find a new spot for you, he said into the clipboard.

Th-the-the refugees? But I have a home here! I’ve been here since Salutia started!

Yes, and that is precisely why I won’t leave you completely homeless, Mr. Rodregez, but I have to sweeten the deal, so to speak. You know what I mean, big guy? I just need to make sure a potential plumber knows Salutia is the place to be. And I think this house says that, Malcom said with a sly smirk.

Malcom had been through hell and back getting Salutia to the point it was at. He had dealt with many just like Rodregez. He’d been forced to deal with several citizens who had the same mentality as Lafayette. He would not let it slide.

I won’t… It’s okay, just forget everything I said. I’ll do it…

Malcom sighed inwardly. Thank goodness, you came around. I gotta tell you I was really hoping you would say that. So—he handed him a list of things to accomplish—I’ll come back to make sure this stuff is done. Also, I’ll be ensuring you start training an apprentice, just in case. He winked.

Rodregez sighed in defeat, scratching his large belly.

Whelp, I guess you’re good to go, Mr. Rodregez, will there be anything else? I trust you won’t have any more issues with doing your job? he asked. Rodregez shook his head, wiping his hands on his pants.

I’ll get it done, Malcom…, he insisted.

Very well. You know I’m available any time, day, or night aside from Wednesday nights, of course, he said, leaving the house. Lyle left the doorway, amusement clear on his features. Oh, and could you please check Ms. Paige’s pipes? She seemed adamant that they need cleaning and has been contacting me about it. Thank you so much, Mr. Rodregez, he finished, closing the door firmly behind him.

Once outside, Malcom picked up his clipboard again, mumbling out loud the long list of things that needed to get done. As he walked, his arm was suddenly grabbed, and he was spun around to face his partner.

Yes, Lyle, how can I help you? he asked through slightly clenched teeth. He’d been right in the middle of a thought. Lyle looked into him with striking gray eyes. He hadn’t changed a bit in seven years aside from growing his hair out. Up the sides it was short, though down the middle was a long black braid, courtesy of Hope’s practicing little hands. Lyle slid a finger down his clipboard to the date. It was Wednesday. Malcom’s eyes widened.

Oh… I forgot again… I’m sorry, my love. I promise to be finished by sundown, he said kindly, squeezing Lyle’s hand. His partner sighed, allowing Malcom to turn away again, getting back to work. Before he could do the next item on the list, Carter came running, his head shining from the New World sun. The sky was blue with only the slightest twinge of red in certain spots. The earth was still healing.

Malcom! I’m sorry to bother you, but one of my students is…well, she just wasn’t feeling well this morning. When I went to visit her home later to check up on her… Carter paused, as if terrified. She’s got a cough, he said softly. Malcom looked worriedly to Lyle who shared his concern. Throughout the New World, a plague had been sneakily terrorizing villages in small clumps. No one could figure out where it was coming from. But it was a killer with no cure.

Go get Ted, Carter. What’s her house number? he asked quickly, rubbing his large hands together.

Thirty-four! Carter called out as he ran to the lab. Lyle and Malcom made their way to house thirty-four, the city buildings passing by them quickly as they ran. Cobblestone clacked under their feet, people looking worriedly as they flew by. Penelope was already waiting out in front of the house, standing just next to the front door. The little shack was one of the smaller, humbler houses within the city. The child must have had a single parent.

I heard about the kid from Carter on my way from the lab, she said quickly. Malcom frowned.

Penelope, it’s Wednesday. Where’s Hope? he asked. Penelope looked shocked.

Wait…it’s Wednesday? But I thought it was Tuesday! she said loudly. Malcom pinched the bridge of his nose. This meant Hope was alone again.

When you work through the night, the day changes, you know. So Hope has been by herself all day again? Did you at least take her to school? he asked in irritation. Penelope bit her lower lip.

Malcom sighed. This happened entirely too often. At this rate, the little girl would never form a real relationship with her mother.

I can’t exactly get angry… I forgot too, he said, sheepishly looking at Lyle. A strange voice behind them made each head turn.

Good afternoon. I’m afraid we have more pressing matters to attend to. Mr. Carter has filled me in on the situation. I do so hope the child has the plague so we can finally get started on a cure! Ted exclaimed. Malcom rubbed his eyes.

I don’t think we should hope for a child to have the plague, Ted. Let’s just figure this out and hope for the best, he said. Ted nodded, hoping he hadn’t said something incorrect.

Of course, please direct me to the girl, Ted said politely. Carter held Malcom’s arm. His face was filled with concern for his student.

Hey…what do we do if she has it? Like…you won’t do all kinds of experiments, will you? I mean, she’s such a bright student and—

Just relax, Carter. I will figure out something for her in the worst-case scenario. Besides, if we find someone who has it, getting the cure will be a much easier task. I’m sure Penelope will be gentle. Just try and remain calm, okay? Malcom soothed, rubbing lightly on Carter’s thick arm. The large man nodded, taking a deep breath.

When they entered the home, the girl’s mother was quiet. She paced the floor, looking like she would break down any moment. Ted entered the child’s room, looking like a tall black picture of a nightmare, though all of Salutia knew better. Each of them had been given a cap for a single tooth with the same properties as a chip with a major difference—Sebastian could not communicate with them.

When the girl saw Ted, she smiled weakly from her bed, coughing into her hand. Her eyes were sunken, and dark bags hung under them. Her skin was extremely pale, her blonde hair up in knots around her head. Ted looked back at everyone else from the doorway.

Stay out, please, he requested. The girl’s mother grabbed Malcom’s shirt from his shoulder.

If his scan shows she has the plague, what will you do? Is my baby going to die? She shivered, tears packed so heavily into her eyes, they were magnified. Malcom cleared his throat, understanding the terrible situation this was. There hadn’t been a single case of the plague in Salutia. Though on the outside, they had heard the illness was patchy and confusing. No one entered Salutia without being scanned first. Finding a cure had been on Penelope’s top priority list.

Please calm down, Ms. Dowrey. Your daughter will be okay. If she has it, we will put her under quarantine until we find a cure, he said softly, not meeting her frantic gaze. She pulled him close, her frenzied expression inches from his face.

And if you don’t?

Malcom looked at her silently. There was nothing else he could say to ease her worries. At this point, they couldn’t be of much more help.

It’s a cold came Ted’s voice, breaking the tension in the room. His tall, dark figure floated through the doorway. Ms. Dowrey finally let her tears fall as she stared, wide-eyed, at Ted, and exhausted relief flooded her chest. She let go of Malcom’s shirt.

Thank goodness… she breathed, moving past them to her daughter’s room. She practically collapsed her upper body onto her daughter, pulling her into a loving embrace.

Ted looked over to Carter who also felt a weight lifted. Tell me of any changes to her condition, he said, attempting a well-practiced smile. He felt he was getting rather good at it. Carter nodded, and they all began shuffling out of the room. Malcom leaned down next to the mother, patting her back.

I’ll have Jack stop by in the morning to check on her. Lots of water and rest, he said gently. She sniffed, nodding.

Thank you, Malcom, she breathed against her child.

When they stepped outside, Malcom noticed the sun had begun its descent, turning the sky several beautiful colors. He’d accomplished nothing else from his schedule.

Do me a favor, Malcom, Penelope said. She put her hands in her lab coat pockets, fiddling around for something.

Find Hope for me. I’m going to finish up what I was doing and do something with her. But she’s probably mad at me, so…if you could get Lyle to love her up and put her in a better mood…that would really help me out, she requested. Malcom sighed.

Yeah, I can do that. We need to work on this. You and I both…but you for sure. She’s getting older, Penelope. She’s not going to forgive you so easily anymore. That girl is quickly learning to hold a grudge, he said, placing a hand at his hip. Penelope nodded, turning to leave.

Both Malcom and Lyle had a good idea of where the little girl was. She was strangely fond of Nuke and his pack of creeper hounds. Since birth, the pack had been a huge part of her life. She treated Nuke better than most people, aside from Lyle and himself.

They started off to the cave where the previous Salutia had been located. It rested at the farthest western side of the city. The hounds had taken up residence in the old cave. After the fields were picked clean by the terrorizing pests, they dug back underground to find a new food source. Several pesticides had been perfected for the new crop fields, and they hadn’t seen any of the flying monstrosities or their larval offspring since they left the fields. They had been one of Sebastian’s creations that the New World could do without.

Malcom looked into the cave entrance. The door had been gutted for easy access. Everything inside had been moved or left for storage. The two men entered to look for Hope.

Chapter 2

Zalidya took slow, meaningful steps into the wastes of the New World. Within her long, thin fingers, she grasped a glass box. Orange, yellow, and red darted around the glass, hopping nonstop. She knelt down, her long, dark hair flowing over her shoulder. An angel’s crystal ring hung at her ear, glistening in the sunlight. A thin flowing black skirt draped around her full hips, and a natural curve graced her rosy mouth.

Taking care, she opened the glass box, and all three creatures jumped out instantly. They buried themselves into the sand, disappearing completely. As she stood, she felt several heavy footfalls on the ground. She glanced back, eyeing four men approaching her. She took a look back to where the frogs were released.

Reproduce quickly, little ones, she said softly. After a moment, she could hear several heavy footsteps. Even in the sand, they made noise.

It’s dangerous for a beautiful woman to be out here alone. I’ll gladly be your bodyguard, but I’ll want payment, the huge man behind her said in a gruff tone. He lifted the ring in her ear. And by the looks of it, you have several things to pay me with. What a pretty trinket.

Zalidya smiled wide.

You stink. Not something I would personally want in a bodyguard. Go take a bath and join Sebastian’s army if you want payment. There’s food and housing, she said. He turned her body forcefully around to face him. His face was marred with bruises. Several teeth were missing. His hair was short and patchy, and his bulbous belly told her he was not hurting for food.

I joined up not long ago. He grinned, his eyes trailing all over her body. She looked to his belt and noticed a long sword hanging at his hip. Clearly he hadn’t been in the army long. She didn’t foresee a long career either.

A sword? Aren’t we overcompensating? she hissed, and the man’s companions chuckled behind him. His face went red, a toothy snarl curling up his mouth.

Let’s find out, he threatened, forcing her back around. He grabbed her hips and pressed against her. He took the back of her silk shirt and tore it straight down the middle. His hands stopped moving as he stared at her back. Every inch was covered in scars going straight down from her shoulders. She flexed as he paused to gawk at her.

Oh, keep going. I’m honestly interested to see what your objective is here. After all, you’re assaulting your commanding officer, she said darkly. The large man grabbed her arm furiously.

What the hell did you say? he growled.

What’s wrong? Can’t perform? Too nervous? Feeling a little softer than usual? That’s terribly rude of you. Get me all worked up and don’t even follow through with your threats. Go ahead. Just try. I want to see if you can cause me pain, she spoke each word with a carnal edge. Her fingers clenched, excitement pulsing through her.

Did you say you were…you’re not Zalidya, are you? He quivered. The men behind him all choked.

Zalidya was quiet for a moment, and each man said nothing. An ominous chill drafted the air, causing each man’s skin to prick up.

And now I’m bored, her voice cut through the silence, making the large brute jump. She reached back and traced gentle fingers down his side before she touched the hilt of his sword. The very moment she felt it, her fingers curled around it, sliding it out of the sheath and slicing right through his arm. His pained cry ripped through the dry air as he fell backward, holding the bloody stump where his arm used to be.

Oh! It’s sharp! she cried, sliding a finger down its blunter edge.

Would you like to try again? I warn you, it looks like you only have three more chances…unless you’d like to wager another body part as collateral, she purred, pointing the end of the sword between his legs. Each of his companions began to back away. Sharp blue eyes shot in their direction. A predatory smile lifted her features.

Exactly where are you going? No, no, you’re his friends! You can’t leave him like this! And in fact, I’m downright angry you would even consider abandoning him! she shouted. Before any one of them could think, the sword sank into the chest of one retreating companion, blood oozing down his chin where it had filled out of his mouth.

She spun around, the weapon slipping out of him easily like butter and slicing the head off another. As the lonely head rolled at her feet, the remaining man quivered. His legs refused to move.

What must I do to live, Lady Zalidya? he shouted, his voice shaking and terrified. Zalidya smirked.

I don’t know. I’m so unbearably bored right now. Give me something interesting. Give me a reason to let you live, she answered simply. I cannot stand to be bored. Give me entertainment. She then held the sword above her head, watching the blood glisten in the sunlight.

You started out admirable and interesting. To wish suffering upon another person is something I can identify with.

Just before he could stutter a reply, she thrust the sword in his direction. The blade connected with him, his bony face instantly twisting in agony. He fell back, a horrible scream bursting from his lips.

Oh… I suppose you’ll have a hard time with that now…my fault. Such cruelty, she fussed at herself. She walked swiftly up to the first man, his arm lying next to him. She snorted.

Why is that so funny?

*****

This was Kali’s least favorite part of every rescue. The barter. A little redheaded girl, likely no more than three years of age, stood in rags in front of a horde of men, all wanting to have her. Likely, they would not come to an agreement, and the argument over who obtained her would be settled in the arena. Slaves, animals, or even children they’d acquired would be forced to fight. There was no money in the New World. People fought for what they had and stole it if they could. Once someone had enough assets, they could put them against someone else’s if they thought themselves lucky enough.

She’s a ginger! Everyone knows how rare they are these days! She’ll make other redheaded babies with time. Clearly she needs to go to me, one man said, his stubby fingers caressing the child’s hair. Kali felt sick. She was three, and this asshole was already thinking about her having kids. What’s worse, he spoke of her as if she were to be bred like an animal.

I’ll never understand what you see in children, you demented scum. Give the child to us and she will become a maid in the castle. She will be put to use, do not worry. And if she shows promise with age, perhaps she will serve His Majesty or the guard, another man said. No matter how they spoke, no matter how elite or noble they tried presenting themselves, they were roaches. They were disgusting plagues on earth, and Kali would be happy to see them all vanish.

The worst of them sat in his throne, his hand over his face. He didn’t seem at all interested in the battle over the girl. It was his decision that would be the fate of this poor child. He inhaled, his black eyes closed. His large body hunched on his throne, and his black curls seemed damp and oily. A full beard covered his face.

I don’t care. Fight over her if you must. She’s too young to do much with. Just figure it out amongst yourselves, he groaned, rubbing his temples. The two arguing men looked to their king before regarding him again.

Is Your Majesty…feeling unwell? one man, an old, frail-looking skeleton with wiry white strands of hair barely clinging to his head asked. Sebastian opened his eyes, furious anger swirling within them.

I am as perfect as I’ve always been, he spat, his voice a hissing whisper. Every man backed away in fear. The three hooded companions stepped deeper into the shadows. It was common for people to hide their faces within the castle. If they should be found out, all three would be done for. They just needed to know where the girl was to be held.

The small redheaded child began to cry softly, and her tiny feet shifted together as she hugged herself. Kali’s heart broke for the child, but her suffering would not go on much longer.

Get out and go fight over her away from me. I’m in no mood to deal with you.

When it was apparent everyone’s presence would no longer be tolerated, they all left. If Sebastian wouldn’t make decision, the noble men were to challenge each other in the arena for the child. She would be kept in the castle dungeon for the night. It wasn’t the most ideal place, but it wasn’t a problem for Kali. If she were to be kept in the arena dungeon, there might be too many eyes to see what they were doing.

It took several hours before the three companions finally had a break and were able to safely get to the child. They entered the dungeon from below the castle. The network of tunnels around it was perfect for slipping in and out. But the guards were on high alert within the castle itself. They needed to be absolutely silent. They stood just shy of the dungeon entrance, Kali peering through the crack in the wall. The tunnel dumped them at just the perfect point where they could connect. A movable part of the wall would be their escape route. Slipping in and out was usually seamless. Getting into the dungeon silently would be impossible without the tunnel. Getting out without being seen was ridiculous to even think about.

Stand watch here in case something happens, Kali said to Chayton. He nodded, staying at the entrance to watch them from the tunnel. If something were to happen, he would remain hidden and help them when things calmed down. If all three of them got caught, there would be little chance of escape.

Bentley and Kali moved silent as mice through the dungeons, keeping well away from the guards or making eye contact with any other prisoners. Unfortunately, they couldn’t help everyone. After a quick search, they found the girl. Her arms were chained to the wall, an unnecessary precaution for a three-year-old. Kali held her hand up to Bentley’s chest.

Those creeps. She’s already in a cell. Why would they chain her too? she asked in a hushed voice. Bentley huffed.

Who cares? Let’s just get her and go, he groaned. This might make things take longer than usual. But worse, still, they would be forced to make more noise. Kali slid her hands into her pocket and pulled out a small key. Swiping the key from the pockets of drunken guards was far easier than any other method Kali had ever tried. She’d picked the guard’s pocket nearly three months ago. So far, it still opened every cell door. She cranked the key into the lock, gently opening the cell. The dungeon was dark, lit up only by a few lights on the walls above each cell. There was apparently electricity in Ragnor, though most people lived like it was the Middle Ages. Kali didn’t understand it. The cell floor was dirt with a thin layer of leaves. Kali approached the child who began to whine right away.

Mommy…, she cried softly. Kali covered her mouth with her hand.

Do…not…speak, she warned. The little girl sniffed, though her tender age deeply worried Kali. She might have an outburst or get noisy. The younger ones were always a risk. Kali was already getting nervous.

Bentley fiddled with her chains, trying to figure out how to get them off.

If we use the bolt cutters, it might make noise…, he warned worriedly.

Oh well, use them, we’re running out of time, Kali said quickly. Bentley arched an eyebrow.

We have all night, Kali, what are you talking about? We can regroup or try and figure something else out, he tried. Kali shook her head.

No, someone in this dungeon is going to figure out something before then. All the chains on her say they’re expecting us, don’t you think? They’re getting smarter. If we leave now, it might be troublesome getting back here. Besides, the other prisoners already saw us. Get the cutters and hurry it up, she demanded. Bentley shook his head, sighing.

This is impulsive, he said under his breath. Kali’s ire only worsened at his comment. She was not one to take too long doing anything. She suspected the chains were there to slow them down. She was not going to allow them to.

Bentley slowly lowered to his knees, pulling out the cutters from a duffel bag under his hooded cloak.

Once she’s free, grab her and run for the tunnel. They will hear us, so I’ll make for the stairs. Get her out and wait for me, she said. Bentley nodded, not looking at her.

Go ahead, trap yourself in a stairwell, he mumbled. Kali wanted to smack him. This wasn’t the time.

The child whimpered as the chains at her wrists were cut forcefully, making a loud sound. Bentley scooped her up into his cloak and bolted for their secret exit.

Hey! Someone’s down there! they heard a guard yell. Kali ran for the stairway, making as much noise as she could. She breathed loudly in her haste, grabbing up a rock and throwing it at one of the cell bars on her way to the brick stairwell. One of the guards stood in her way as she approached. She plowed into him, knocking him off-balance and onto the ground. She placed her hand on his forehead as he went down, harshly connecting the back of his skull to the floor.

Stay down, stay down, stay down, she said quickly, scampering up the stairs. As she ascended, she could hear more guards in front and behind her. When they came upon her, she grunted as she was grabbed up from behind.

Is this— A guard realized then that Kali was someone trying to recapture a child. She knew they’d been looking for her.

Holy shit! We got her! We got you, little bit—

Kali thrust her head back into the man’s mouth who held on to her. His teeth went right through his tongue, making him cry out in pain. She climbed up the wall of the stairwell with her legs, pushing back against him. He dropped, his back painfully slamming into the stairs. She wrenched herself out of his grasp, ducking low as the other guard tried to make a grab for her.

Okay…, she thought. She pumped her legs forward and stomped on the fallen guard’s body to shoot up to the other, throwing her left fist out and into his nose, breaking it against his face.

Nose, now eyes…

She jabbed her fingers into the same man’s eyes as a third attacker came from above, trying to get around the other guard’s large body to grab at her in the small stairwell.

Knees…, she thought, hanging on to the railings. She swung her heels directly into the knees of both the second and third man. They fell in unison, screaming in agony. As she dug her boots into the bodies of both men, her ankle was grabbed, and she spun around, still holding the railing.

Throat, she grunted out loud, kicking strong legs directly into the lower guard’s throat, causing him to suck in a labored breath before hacking violently.

Her ankle freed, she bounded wildly up the stairs. Once at the top, she made for the very first window she saw, throwing herself out of it. A woman with dark hair and something large over her shoulders watched her jump out the window, close enough to touch her, but all she did was watch her with strange, crazed eyes. Kali felt almost off focus looking briefly at them. It was unmistakable. This was Zalidya.

The short fall was easily overcome as she rolled to her feet, throwing her hood back over her head. She ran for the tunnels where her friends waited. She ran for home.

*****

Zalidya stared at the broken window, a smile across her face. Ragnor would be in an uproar again. She figured that to be the young lady who always found sneaky ways to rescue kidnapped children. For whatever reason, she couldn’t care less about her in that moment. She adjusted the arm over her shoulder, holding the bone within her thin pale fingers.

She walked easily into the throne room where only Sebastian sat, his head in his hands. He must have ordered everyone out of the room recently to still be sitting there. She smirked, standing a few yards away, the blood from the disembodied arm trickling down her wrist. He looked pompous in his giant throne with all his pillows of varying colors and design. Anything to make the act of sitting in front of the noblemen more comfortable, she supposed.

Sebastian lifted his head, his black eyes glancing up at her. The frustration on his face was in no way extinguished by her presence. A flicker of confusion was added to his headache, however.

Is that an arm? he asked. Zalidya smiled wide, taking the arm from her shoulders and pointing it at him.

Do you need a…hand with something? You look frustrated and I can be quite…handy, she smirked. Sebastian sucked in an angry breath.

Don’t, we are not doing this. Take your leave or I’ll force you, he threatened.

You and what…army? she asked, impending cackles rising in her chest. Sebastian growled.

Did you release the frogs?

I may have had a hand in it, she said, coming closer.

They weren’t ready! he thundered, a vein on his forehead bulging. She smiled, completely unfazed.

You need to focus more to the task at…hand. You were taking too long with those little things, so I handed them off to the world. Don’t worry, they will survive just fine.

Zalidya! he shouted, his incredibly thin patience more than used up, you are not in charge of when my creations leave my lab! You did this before, and it was detrimental! If you dare anger me again, I’ll make you suffer, and this time you won’t like it! he threatened.

"Please. Sebastian, you’ve never done a bit of elbow grease for the entirety of your little apocalypse. I was merely shouldering some of the hands-on work to ease your mind. You’re getting angry over nothing."

I’m going to kill you, I swear it…

Then shall I stay—she thrust the arm forward, nearly touching him—at arm’s reach?

His frown deepened, his entire face red with rage.

Oh, Sebastian, you must get a handle on this anger. Maybe there’s some way I could make you feel better. A kiss, maybe? My shirt is already ripped, shall I remove it? Or maybe a—she dropped the arm into his lap—handy.

You’re disgusting, he hissed through his teeth. Zalidya was thoughtful for a moment before tossing the arm aside.

I got nothin’. She shrugged. She hiked her skirt up to her hips stepping up to his throne. She slid into his lap, slithering her arms around his shoulders.

Maybe you could take out your dagger and we could go for a ride. These four men bothered me today, and I need to be punished for what I did. But I can’t tell you, it’s too awful.

Sebastian’s eyes flicked over to the arm slowly making a mess on his floor.

I can imagine.

She grinned, twirling a finger in his curls.

One little one? Just one? No more puns, I promise. She chuckled. Sebastian sighed angrily under her, smoothing his hand over the dagger at his belt.

Zalidya’s legs quivered in his lap. The tip of the blade rested at the base of her shoulder, easing the edge into her skin. She gripped his hair roughly as the blade came down her back, her already ripped shirt completely open.

Maybe I should stab you in the back. Slide this knife all the way in. My problems would be over, he growled. He hated this. He hated everything about her.

You couldn’t possibly do such a thing. Who would protect you from the shadows you fear so much? Who would keep those nasty men from beheading you in favor of taking your made-up throne?

Suddenly, the doors to the throne room burst open, and a guard rushed in.

Your Majesty! The child has been stolen and—oh… He stared at his king, morbidly aware of his intrusion. Sebastian growled angrily, shoving Zalidya off his lap, just barely avoiding stabbing her as both she and the blade fell to the floor. The woman smiled, unaffected by his violent turn.

Leave now. I don’t care about the damn kidnapped children! Figure out amongst yourselves what to do about whoever is taking these children. But leave me alone about it! he shouted, stomping out of the throne room. The young man shivered as he looked over to Zalidya on the floor. A predatory smile once again graced her full lips.

I was really enjoying myself, young man. That was a bit rude. Come here.

Are you going to kill me, Lady Zalidya? he asked in a squeaky voice. The woman raised an eyebrow.

Depends on if you’ll be boring or entertaining.

Chapter 3

Walking beside his partner into old Salutia was a familiar act, though it never failed to soothe Malcom’s nerves. Lyle had a way about him, the way he walked and the way he breathed, which Malcom could rely on to be peaceful to him. As odd as most people found it that he requested the silent man be near him in his off-hours, it was a peace that Malcom felt he occasionally needed to stay focused. Thankfully, Lyle didn’t seem to object even after seven years. Normally, he did have other things to do.

They stepped into the dimly lit room that Malcom held strong but old memories in. A layer of dust had settled into the old training room. Several barrels of rabbit jerky as well as treats and meds for the hounds were stacked high on the walls. The training room had been changed to a place to train the hounds. He smirked as he fondly recalled the number of times he’d honed his skills in this room alongside Lyle and the others. He remembered John…

It had been a while since he’d been emotional about his death. Thankfully, Hope resembled her mother with her big bushy brown curls and excessive personality. But there were times when he would look at her and swear that John was looking back.

They headed deeper into the cave, hearing the yips and coughs of the creeper hounds below. Malcom walked into the main entrance to old Salutia living quarters where the hounds had not only taken over, but also multiplied. Every home had been completely stripped and broken down for parts aside from a few bricks here and there for the hounds to make a home in. Old Salutia was a wide-open space with several trees still tall and proud every few yards. The ground was littered with hounds chasing one another, playing, and sleeping. The only house that remained had been the one he shared with Lyle. He hadn’t managed to change it in the least.

Malcom knew that to find Hope would mean to look for just one hound in particular. As he scanned the cave, he finally laid eyes on a large fuzzy loaf lying up in a corner. This was most likely the fuzzy loaf he was looking for. Snapping his fingers, he pointed to the resting hound, and Lyle nodded, a small smile rising.

When they walked up to it, Malcom put his hands at his hips. A girl was snuggled deep with the large hound, absently playing with his brown fur.

Hope…you’re going to get overheated…again, he said warmly. Hope glanced her big blue eyes up to him for a second before averting them again.

I like the heat, she said softly, her head lying comfortably against Nuke’s curled-up body. The hound was snoring loudly, his gangly teeth poking out of his mouth.

Mom forgot again, huh? Sorry, sweetie. Do you want us to take you to her? Malcom asked, kneeling down to her. She scrunched up her nose, huffing. Lyle stood by Malcom, his hands in his pockets.

Can I stay with you tonight? she asked quietly.

I’m afraid not, Hope, tonight is my night to spend with Lyle. You know that. It’s the one time you gotta be with your mom.

But she won’t even do anything with me. She just thinks about work and doesn’t talk any the whole time.

Lyle doesn’t talk, and you don’t mind.

He’s fun…, she grumbled. Malcom rubbed the back of his neck.

I’m sorry, maybe tomorrow night. He tried. Hope sat up, looking at Lyle.

Lyle, can I—

Don’t you do it! he warned, looking straight at Lyle. He had a monstrous weakness when it came to Hope, and Malcom wasn’t the only one annoyed by it. Lyle smiled wide, looking up to the canopy. Although he hadn’t actually done anything, he was already in trouble.

Hope, you can’t ask him if I’ve already said no, he said in irritation. The child pouted.

But he would have said yes…

I’m aware, Malcom said through his teeth. Lyle blew through his lips.

Excuse me, Mr. Leary! came a disgruntled voice from the entrance. Malcom huffed, knowing exactly who this was. A thin, stiff old man with a sort of limp approached with obvious ire. He nearly tripped over a dirt clump as he stomped toward them, set on giving Malcom a piece of his mind. Every hound in the cave looked at him from where they were. The playing stopped.

What did you do? Malcom whispered, looking directly at Hope who turned away. Guilty, he mumbled.

Mr. Leary! I’d like to know what you think of this! He held a box in his hands full of assorted mechanical junk. He turned it over, dumping its contents loudly on the dirt floor. Malcom took a deep breath.

What did she do, Mr. Conway? Malcom asked, starting to lose patience with this day.

"You know what she did, you know exactly what she did! She’s a little devil, she is! This was an antique radio, Mr. Leary, an antique!" Conway shouted angrily. He pointed an accusing finger at Hope who simply hugged Nuke around his neck.

Hope…why did you break Mr. Conway’s radio? he asked. Hope buried her face into Nuke’s neck. The large animal snorted, licking his chops.

Who cares why she did it? She’s an unruly hellion, and the longer it takes for you to exact some sort of punishment on her, the worse she’s going to get! She needs the belt! Conway thundered. Malcom pinched the bridge of his nose.

Mr. Conway, I understand your frustrations. Just please remember where you are right now, he warned. The angry old man looked around the cave, realizing with fear that every single hound was looking directly at him. Creatures armed with huge teeth in every corner all peered at him, waiting for him to make any sort of move they didn’t like. Their leering red eyes and dripping jowls stirred discomfort within him.

Conway cleared his throat, looked back at Malcom, took his box, and turned quickly away.

I never liked these things here either. Security or not, they are too unpredictable, he grumbled, making his way out of the old city. Malcom smirked. The hounds were quite predictable, as were old men. He knew Conway hadn’t been scared off for long. He would pester Malcom indefinitely until his radio was replaced or he was given retribution for his pain and suffering.

He called Nuke ugly…, the little girl mumbled into the hound’s fur. Malcom sighed. She was just as protective of the hounds as they were of her.

Hope…you have to understand that not everyone finds creeper hounds…attractive, he said as kindly as he could. Hope whipped her little head around, glaring at him.

He’s not ugly! she shouted, standing up. Pouting, she stomped over to Lyle, reaching up. He picked up the child and held her, allowing her to sit on his arms and rest her head on his shoulder.

You can’t cling to him every time you do something wrong, Hope. You should go apologize.

Hope sniffed into Lyle’s shoulder. He smiled at Malcom who shook his head.

He doesn’t deserve an apology. He was mean first. Nuke can’t defend himself from mean words. He’s just the best hound in the whole wide world, and Mr. Conway’s a cranky old fart face, she grumped. Malcom stifled a laugh.

"Just because someone is bad-tempered doesn’t make them mean. He didn’t say that to hurt Nuke. Nuke doesn’t know any different. But it isn’t nice to break something