Chapter 556: Compromise
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Chapter 556: Compromise
Indecision was a formidable foe, one whose poisonous fangs were sunk deep into Songs flesh.
This was not an issue shed been trained to deal with. Choice was not a luxury afforded to most slaves, and truth be told, she almost missed its absence. Being a slave was simple and straightforward, and the lack of decisions was almost reassuring at times, so long as she didnt dwell on all the horrible things she might be ordered to do. She found no sense in worrying though, because trials and tribulations would come regardless if she worried or not, so she had long since learned to focus on the moment and prepare for whatever the Heavens might throw her way. Being Oath-bound did not equate to a miserable existence, only the potential for one, and while it would be a lie to say she was never concerned or anxious about anything, she never allowed her misgivings to overwhelm her, like Rain so often did.
It was one of his greatest flaws, a desperate need for answers to all of lifes questions. Today, however, she sympathized with his difficulties as she came across a dilemma she never thought shed have to face, one she spent long minutes wrestling with while standing in the empty dining room of her Citadel suite.
What was she supposed to do about breakfast?
Normally, Mama made this decision for her, after they watched the sunrise together while brushing her hair. Most of the time they would either head over to Brother Baatars manor or go out to the market for breakfast, but on rare occasions, Mama would cook and the two of them would enjoy a nice, quiet breakfast together at home. Song enjoyed those tranquil mornings the most, but she kept it to herself because she didnt want to impose. Mama wouldnt see it that way and would probably beam with delight if Song spoke up, but she was a busy woman with many duties and responsibilities, and cooking breakfast every morning would only add to her many burdens.
Besides, Song also enjoyed eating with Brother Baatar and the rest of her extended family every now and then...
Realizing she was procrastinating about making an actual decision, Song refocused her thoughts on the issue at hand. The easiest solution was to do nothing, and wait for someone to decide for her, which was only indecision by another name. Going over to Brother Baatars manor would be presumptuous, because even though nephew-in-law Charok always served breakfast warmly with a smile, Song was still an extra mouth to feed and therefore represented more work for him. However, if she went to the market of her own volition, she might inadvertently snub the considerate and good-natured cook if he expected her to come over for breakfast, which he might considering he knew Mama was absent and Song could not cook for herself. It would be best if he sent over an invitation, but the Bekhai were rarely so formal even with strangers, much less with family, so if she waited, then she might still be waiting several hours later when Papa finally woke from slumber.
Only now did she understand the meaning of being spoiled for choice, and Song inwardly apologized to Rain for all the times shed scorned him for uncertainty.
In the end, Sarankhos impatience forced Song into action, so she settled on a half-hearted compromise. After brushing the wildcat and feeding the Laughing Birds, she rode Erdene out to the market, where she purchased a roasted deer haunch for herself in case nephew-in-law didnt account for her while cooking. If he had, then she could just feed the meat to the animals, as her quin and wildcat assumed she would, already squeaking and mewling in gluttonous harmony. While peeling strips off to share with them, Roc swooped down and landed atop Erdenes head, greedily eyeing the roasted meat and giving Song a pleasant surprise. The other Laughing Birds were nowhere to be seen, but apparently Roc had grown tired of staying cooped up all winter and was ready to soar through the skies once again.
A decision Song somewhat envied the bird for, because she could never be unfettered and free...
Upon arriving at Brother Baatars manor, Song stopped outside to knock and wait. Mama usually just barged inside, so Songs actions prompted questioning looks from the Death Corps slaves standing guard and a burst of Sent laughter from Tursinai who was Concealed somewhere nearby. Cheeks colouring in embarrassment, Song scolded herself for not considering her watchful guardians. If shed thought to reach out regarding her breakfast dilemma, Tursinai would have responded, and then Song couldve left the decision in the older Khishigs hands. Before she could speak up, the double-doors cracked open a sliver before Tate threw them wide open and wrapped his arms around her waist. Morning Li-Li, he shouted, before leaning back so she could see his curious expression from over the haunch of meat. Why dyou knock? Just come in, ya? Fixing his eyes on the half-eaten haunch, he asked, Can I have a piece?
Tate. At the sound of his fathers stern disapproval emanating from the dining room, the darling boy shrank back in contrition, even though neither of them were visible. What did we say about opening the door?
To not do it, because it could be dangerous. Head lowered in shame, Tate added, Sorry Papa, I forgot.
Feeling terrible for having gotten him in trouble, Song handed him a long strip of meat and watched him stuff the whole piece into his mouth as if afraid the pets would steal it, but they were too well-trained for that. His voracious appetite put a smile on Songs lips, but it didnt last long as Charok said, And did you also forget what I said about finishing whats in your bowl before asking for more food?
Having gotten Tate into trouble twice now in less than a minute, Song quickly ushered the boy back into the courtyard and tried to wordlessly convey that she was to blame, but nephew-in-law Charok flashed her an understanding smile before falling back into his stern, fatherly mannerisms. Come back and finish your breakfast. Glancing at her haunch of meat with a raised eyebrow, he refrained from commenting and added, But Tate is right. You are family, so our home is your home.
Unsure how to respond, Song merely nodded and checked the table to find more food than Charok, Tali, and Tate could finish. Bolstered by the knowledge that her presence had been expected, she fed the bulk of her backup breakfast to the animals while greeting them each in kind. The bunnies were all absent and probably still sleeping, but little Blackjack was here, as were the bears and wildcats. She offered some meat to Tali as well, but the darling girl shook her head and declared, Papas cooking is yummier. This earned her a smile and a pat on the head from her father and a jealous scowl from her brother, but Song had to agree, so she quickly put an end to the animal feeding session and stuffed the remaining strips of meat into her pouch for later.
Judging by the empty seats and used tableware, Brother Baatar and the Medical Saint had both already eaten and left, and there was no one else present besides Charok and the twins. It would be hours before Lin-Lin woke, and these days Rain slept in almost as much, so with everyone else still at the grove, it was just the four of them in the dining room today. She wasnt accustomed to spending time with nephew-in-law Charok in such a close and intimate setting, but thankfully he didnt press her for conversation or seem discomforted by her silence. Tate however, was another matter, and he bombarded her with question after question regarding yesterdays trip to the farm and the incidents thereafter, while sweet Tali joined in with a wide-eyed, pleading gaze which Song found impossible to refuse. Luckily, they already heard most of the relevant details from their father and grandfather, so Song had little to add, but the twins still worked together to eke out every scrap of information she had to offer. Given his martial aspirations, Tates questions focused on the assassins and battles, so his enthusiasm dampened when she told him she didnt take part in any combat. When he shifted focus to the grove and Insights, Charok stopped him short to warn him against over-reaching on the Martial Path, which was good because she wasnt entirely sure how to answer Tates questions. Hearing Sister Mila, Yan, and Luo-Luo talk about their experiences in the grove left Song mildly unsettled, because while they were given a glimpse of what their Dao might be, she merely received a handful of basic Insights into the Forms, which was no different from what she could find through normal meditation. To make matters worse, Song was the only one to come out of her trance early, which together felt like it meant she was still sorely lacking in comparison to the others. It shouldnt have mattered, for each must walk their own Path at their own pace, but it vexed her to know shed been outdone by Yan and even Luo-Luo, who had only been taking the Martial Dao seriously for less than a year.
Pride in her martial skills was one of the few pleasures Song could enjoy when shed been nothing more than a slave, and while she had so much more to appreciate now, she still yearned to follow the Martial Dao to the apex because...
Well... Like Rain, she wasnt entirely sure why she sought strength, but she still wanted it.
Why did the groundhog run away, Li-Li? Talis innocuous question broke Song out of her reverie and she looked down at the sweet girls mournful pout. He couldve been like the quins and wildcats, ya? Our cute little friend, all happy and safe and fed.
He is a wild animal, Song replied, and she thought of Roc soaring through the skies, though the fat bird was currently hopping around the courtyard and harassing the much larger, but more forgiving wildcats and bears. One which has only ever known a life of freedom, so for him, captivity is a terrifying thing. Out there, he can follow his hearts desires wherever they might bring him, and for some, danger and insecurity are a small price to pay for freedom and independence.
A price which Song couldnt pay even if she wanted to...
Is weasel-bear, the man said, holding his hands up as if he could forcibly hold the Death Corps back. Furry beast, for sale, yes? It fall in pit, and this one think to sell to noble Rain. While most would see nothing wrong with calling Rain a noble, the Death Corps saw it as an insult to their esteemed Imperial Consort, but the poor man mistook their collective displeasure for aggression. No sell, gift, gift, he stammered, wavering between standing his ground and falling to his knees as the Death Corps glowered as one. Is gift. Please great ones, spare you this fool.
Curiosity getting the better of her, Song ordered the man to remove the canvas cover, which he promptly did, and decided weasel-bear was an apt name. While only half as large as the adolescent Banjo and Baloo, the stocky beast trapped inside the wooden cage had a bulky and muscular torso like a bear, with the face of a weasel and a long, sinuous, and delightfully fluffy tail. With a golden brown coat and cavernous mouth, the weasel bear would be adorable if it didnt have such an intimidating snarl and murderous glare, one which raised Erdenes hackles even though the creature laid prone and bound from tail to snout. The sunlight did nothing to soothe the beasts anger, and in fact seemed to enrage it even more as it struggled against its bonds and threatened to break rope, cage, and even the cart beneath it.
Then Songs sweet mount offered a warning chitter in response which set the nearby quins to alert as they rushed over to help, which was somehow more reassuring than the Death Corps guards standing with her.
Honestly, if this man was an assassin, then he was a clever one indeed, for Rain wouldve taken one look at the weasel-bear and ignored the clear and present danger to free it from its bonds. Granted, Song wanted to do the same, but she was not so cavalier about regrowing lost body parts. After informing nephew-in-law Charok that there was no danger, Song got the full story from the nervous man. A hunter by trade, he found the beast in a pitfall trap he laid out on the plains to catch foxes. Instead of falling onto the spikes, the weasel-bear somehow latched onto the side, where it clung desperately for dear life since it lacked the ability to climb, jump, or burrow. By the time the hunter found it, it was weak with hunger and exhaustion, so seeing an opportunity to earn a fortune, he elicited help from his friends to capture the vicious and exotic creature alive. To bring it here, they kept it hungry and thirsty for twelve full days, never once giving it more than a morsel of meat and letting it drink by throwing water at its face. Small wonder the creature hated them and all of humanity in turn, which left Song with a pressing dilemma.
What to do with the beast now?
The hunter claimed the creature was not local to this region, nor had he or anyone he knew ever heard of such a ferocious beast, and Song was inclined to believe him. This weasel-bear was threatening enough to put a pack of roosequin on guard, who hunted wolves and bears on their own, much less as a group. Perhaps it had been displaced by all the turmoil in the west, or maybe it escaped from another enterprising animal seller who was less fortunate than this one, but either way, Song decided she had no choice but to buy it. The hunter tried to refuse, but he shut his mouth the moment she opened her pouch and revealed the gold coins sitting inside, which made her regret moving so quickly. Handing over five coins with a heavy heart, she waved the hunter away before turning to Tali and Tate. I cannot join you at the training grounds, she said, and they both nodded in mournful understanding, even as Tali handed over a bucket of water for the poor beast. They were a pragmatic pair and no doubt knew what needed to be done, but Song wasnt expecting them to be so... understanding. Rain probably would have refused and tried to free the pitiful floof from its bonds or something equally stupid. Leaving the other animals in their care, she brought the cart away to the eastern gates, where the weasel-bears threatening growls were quick to clear her path through the crowds and see her outside in record time.
Marching without thinking, she walked for the better part of an hour before realizing she couldnt go any further, else shed be late getting back to bring Papa his breakfast. Stopping in place, she turned to the poor weasel-bear which had stopped struggling some minutes past, panting as it lay weakly on its side and watched her with teary, brown eyes. Heart breaking at the sight of such surrender, she realized the creature would have long since turned Defiled if it were capable of human emotion, and might very well become a Demon if she delayed any longer, so the time to act was now.
Placing a hand on her sabre, Song closed her eyes, took a deep breath, and then acted without thinking.
Steel thrummed and air hissed as her sabre cut through wood and rope.
Leaving fur and bones intact.
The creature recovered so quickly she worried it had been feigning its weakness, but instead of launching itself at her, it reared back and growled in threat. Knowing better than to show fear or back away, Song drew herself up to full height and stared the creature down.
Which was soon followed by a strip of venison tossed by its feet. Luckily she saved the scraps from her back-up breakfast, else she wouldve had to risk stopping at the market for more food.
The transformation was astounding as the weasel-bear pounced on the meat with ravenous hunger, and Song almost felt like she was watching sweet Tate gobbling down the same treat. Though she could have given the beast everything at once, she wanted to give it time to calm down and grow acclimated to her presence, so she waited for a steady count of three seconds after it finished eating before throwing the next piece. In truth, she intended to wait for five seconds, but even though the weasel-bear was only slightly larger than a child, it was at least thrice as heavy judging by how hard Song had worked to get here, and its focused gaze unnerved her more than a bit.
There they stood on the open fields of Central, one slave who was not really a slave and one weasel-bear which was neither weasel nor bear, with the former feeding the latter venison one strip at a time. As the beast snatched the last strip out of the air, Song prayed to the Mother Above to watch over Her furry child and make it walk away peaceably, else she would have no choice but to kill the ferocious and somewhat adorable creature. After eating its fill, it ambled over to the bucket and began lapping up water, but its eyes remained fixed on Song even as its sizable claws left cracks and gouges in the wooden buckets frame with careless ease.
All by accident, presumably, though it could be trying to threaten her by Honing its claws. If so, then it was certainly working...
Licking its muzzle clean of grease and water, the weasel-bear snuffled and growled for more, but Song shook her head and put hand to sabre. Recognizing her actions for the threat they were, the beast snarled and eyed her for long seconds before sneezing twice, transforming from threatening monster to innocent floof in the blink of an eye. Raising its snout to sniff the air, it burped and turned away before hopping off the cart, where it immediately disappeared into the grass as it rushed off in search of more water and food.
Mother in Heaven, the beast could Conceal. A good thing it ambled away then, because it might well have been strong enough to kill Song outright.
Though mildly upset the beast didnt want to be friends, she did not begrudge its choice of freedom over comfort, for that was its nature, its Dao, even. Given the choice, she wasnt sure she wouldnt choose the same, even though Mama, Papa, Sister, and everyone else had been nothing but kind to her. She wanted this life she had now, but without her Oaths restraining her, except to do that, she needed to be powerful enough to resist the Heavens themselves. This was her reason for strength, she realized, so she might someday become powerful enough to free herself from her Oaths, even if it meant surpassing Ancestral Beasts and ascending to Divinity herself.
As she turned around for the lonely journey home, her regrets weighed heavily upon her. Setting the weasel-bear free was necessary, but she should have found somewhere further from the citadel and civilization. With the heavy human traffic in the area, there was a good chance the beast would find no prey to hunt. It might turn to raiding the few farms still in operation, farms guarded by Imperial soldiers to keep the workers from fleeing for safer pastures. This was as good as a death sentence for the beast, but she couldnt have gone much further even if she had the time because her slave Oaths would have soon come into effect, so she resolved to come back tomorrow morning with more food and water for the beast. Perhaps that would keep it from raiding the nearby farms or caravans, but then how would it survive once she left for the Central Citadel?
Less than a minute later, her worries melted away as she spotted Tursinai, Tenjin, and Papa come out of Concealment only a short distance away, and Song amended her earlier statement. Freedom from her Oaths was not all she strove for, but she also wanted the strength to protect her beloved family and considerate friends, instead of always being protected by them instead.
A far more achievable goal than the former, but a worthy one indeed. Though her Dao remained shrouded in mystery, at least now Song knew why she sought strength, and any progress was a cause for celebration. Minor and inconsequential though it might be, it was still a step along her Martial Path, one which brought her that much closer to the Peak, and perhaps even freedom beyond it.
For like Mama said, where there is life, there is hope, and Song would never give up on either one ever again.
Chapter Meme
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Chapter 556: Compromise
Indecision was a formidable foe, one whose poisonous fangs were sunk deep into Songs flesh.
This was not an issue shed been trained to deal with. Choice was not a luxury afforded to most slaves, and truth be told, she almost missed its absence. Being a slave was simple and straightforward, and the lack of decisions was almost reassuring at times, so long as she didnt dwell on all the horrible things she might be ordered to do. She found no sense in worrying though, because trials and tribulations would come regardless if she worried or not, so she had long since learned to focus on the moment and prepare for whatever the Heavens might throw her way. Being Oath-bound did not equate to a miserable existence, only the potential for one, and while it would be a lie to say she was never concerned or anxious about anything, she never allowed her misgivings to overwhelm her, like Rain so often did.
It was one of his greatest flaws, a desperate need for answers to all of lifes questions. Today, however, she sympathized with his difficulties as she came across a dilemma she never thought shed have to face, one she spent long minutes wrestling with while standing in the empty dining room of her Citadel suite.
What was she supposed to do about breakfast?
Normally, Mama made this decision for her, after they watched the sunrise together while brushing her hair. Most of the time they would either head over to Brother Baatars manor or go out to the market for breakfast, but on rare occasions, Mama would cook and the two of them would enjoy a nice, quiet breakfast together at home. Song enjoyed those tranquil mornings the most, but she kept it to herself because she didnt want to impose. Mama wouldnt see it that way and would probably beam with delight if Song spoke up, but she was a busy woman with many duties and responsibilities, and cooking breakfast every morning would only add to her many burdens.
Besides, Song also enjoyed eating with Brother Baatar and the rest of her extended family every now and then...
Realizing she was procrastinating about making an actual decision, Song refocused her thoughts on the issue at hand. The easiest solution was to do nothing, and wait for someone to decide for her, which was only indecision by another name. Going over to Brother Baatars manor would be presumptuous, because even though nephew-in-law Charok always served breakfast warmly with a smile, Song was still an extra mouth to feed and therefore represented more work for him. However, if she went to the market of her own volition, she might inadvertently snub the considerate and good-natured cook if he expected her to come over for breakfast, which he might considering he knew Mama was absent and Song could not cook for herself. It would be best if he sent over an invitation, but the Bekhai were rarely so formal even with strangers, much less with family, so if she waited, then she might still be waiting several hours later when Papa finally woke from slumber.
Only now did she understand the meaning of being spoiled for choice, and Song inwardly apologized to Rain for all the times shed scorned him for uncertainty.
In the end, Sarankhos impatience forced Song into action, so she settled on a half-hearted compromise. After brushing the wildcat and feeding the Laughing Birds, she rode Erdene out to the market, where she purchased a roasted deer haunch for herself in case nephew-in-law didnt account for her while cooking. If he had, then she could just feed the meat to the animals, as her quin and wildcat assumed she would, already squeaking and mewling in gluttonous harmony. While peeling strips off to share with them, Roc swooped down and landed atop Erdenes head, greedily eyeing the roasted meat and giving Song a pleasant surprise. The other Laughing Birds were nowhere to be seen, but apparently Roc had grown tired of staying cooped up all winter and was ready to soar through the skies once again.
A decision Song somewhat envied the bird for, because she could never be unfettered and free...
Upon arriving at Brother Baatars manor, Song stopped outside to knock and wait. Mama usually just barged inside, so Songs actions prompted questioning looks from the Death Corps slaves standing guard and a burst of Sent laughter from Tursinai who was Concealed somewhere nearby. Cheeks colouring in embarrassment, Song scolded herself for not considering her watchful guardians. If shed thought to reach out regarding her breakfast dilemma, Tursinai would have responded, and then Song couldve left the decision in the older Khishigs hands. Before she could speak up, the double-doors cracked open a sliver before Tate threw them wide open and wrapped his arms around her waist. Morning Li-Li, he shouted, before leaning back so she could see his curious expression from over the haunch of meat. Why dyou knock? Just come in, ya? Fixing his eyes on the half-eaten haunch, he asked, Can I have a piece?
Tate. At the sound of his fathers stern disapproval emanating from the dining room, the darling boy shrank back in contrition, even though neither of them were visible. What did we say about opening the door?
To not do it, because it could be dangerous. Head lowered in shame, Tate added, Sorry Papa, I forgot.
Feeling terrible for having gotten him in trouble, Song handed him a long strip of meat and watched him stuff the whole piece into his mouth as if afraid the pets would steal it, but they were too well-trained for that. His voracious appetite put a smile on Songs lips, but it didnt last long as Charok said, And did you also forget what I said about finishing whats in your bowl before asking for more food?
Having gotten Tate into trouble twice now in less than a minute, Song quickly ushered the boy back into the courtyard and tried to wordlessly convey that she was to blame, but nephew-in-law Charok flashed her an understanding smile before falling back into his stern, fatherly mannerisms. Come back and finish your breakfast. Glancing at her haunch of meat with a raised eyebrow, he refrained from commenting and added, But Tate is right. You are family, so our home is your home.
Unsure how to respond, Song merely nodded and checked the table to find more food than Charok, Tali, and Tate could finish. Bolstered by the knowledge that her presence had been expected, she fed the bulk of her backup breakfast to the animals while greeting them each in kind. The bunnies were all absent and probably still sleeping, but little Blackjack was here, as were the bears and wildcats. She offered some meat to Tali as well, but the darling girl shook her head and declared, Papas cooking is yummier. This earned her a smile and a pat on the head from her father and a jealous scowl from her brother, but Song had to agree, so she quickly put an end to the animal feeding session and stuffed the remaining strips of meat into her pouch for later.
Judging by the empty seats and used tableware, Brother Baatar and the Medical Saint had both already eaten and left, and there was no one else present besides Charok and the twins. It would be hours before Lin-Lin woke, and these days Rain slept in almost as much, so with everyone else still at the grove, it was just the four of them in the dining room today. She wasnt accustomed to spending time with nephew-in-law Charok in such a close and intimate setting, but thankfully he didnt press her for conversation or seem discomforted by her silence. Tate however, was another matter, and he bombarded her with question after question regarding yesterdays trip to the farm and the incidents thereafter, while sweet Tali joined in with a wide-eyed, pleading gaze which Song found impossible to refuse. Luckily, they already heard most of the relevant details from their father and grandfather, so Song had little to add, but the twins still worked together to eke out every scrap of information she had to offer. Given his martial aspirations, Tates questions focused on the assassins and battles, so his enthusiasm dampened when she told him she didnt take part in any combat. When he shifted focus to the grove and Insights, Charok stopped him short to warn him against over-reaching on the Martial Path, which was good because she wasnt entirely sure how to answer Tates questions. Hearing Sister Mila, Yan, and Luo-Luo talk about their experiences in the grove left Song mildly unsettled, because while they were given a glimpse of what their Dao might be, she merely received a handful of basic Insights into the Forms, which was no different from what she could find through normal meditation. To make matters worse, Song was the only one to come out of her trance early, which together felt like it meant she was still sorely lacking in comparison to the others. It shouldnt have mattered, for each must walk their own Path at their own pace, but it vexed her to know shed been outdone by Yan and even Luo-Luo, who had only been taking the Martial Dao seriously for less than a year.
Pride in her martial skills was one of the few pleasures Song could enjoy when shed been nothing more than a slave, and while she had so much more to appreciate now, she still yearned to follow the Martial Dao to the apex because...
Well... Like Rain, she wasnt entirely sure why she sought strength, but she still wanted it.
Why did the groundhog run away, Li-Li? Talis innocuous question broke Song out of her reverie and she looked down at the sweet girls mournful pout. He couldve been like the quins and wildcats, ya? Our cute little friend, all happy and safe and fed.
He is a wild animal, Song replied, and she thought of Roc soaring through the skies, though the fat bird was currently hopping around the courtyard and harassing the much larger, but more forgiving wildcats and bears. One which has only ever known a life of freedom, so for him, captivity is a terrifying thing. Out there, he can follow his hearts desires wherever they might bring him, and for some, danger and insecurity are a small price to pay for freedom and independence.
A price which Song couldnt pay even if she wanted to...
Is weasel-bear, the man said, holding his hands up as if he could forcibly hold the Death Corps back. Furry beast, for sale, yes? It fall in pit, and this one think to sell to noble Rain. While most would see nothing wrong with calling Rain a noble, the Death Corps saw it as an insult to their esteemed Imperial Consort, but the poor man mistook their collective displeasure for aggression. No sell, gift, gift, he stammered, wavering between standing his ground and falling to his knees as the Death Corps glowered as one. Is gift. Please great ones, spare you this fool.
Curiosity getting the better of her, Song ordered the man to remove the canvas cover, which he promptly did, and decided weasel-bear was an apt name. While only half as large as the adolescent Banjo and Baloo, the stocky beast trapped inside the wooden cage had a bulky and muscular torso like a bear, with the face of a weasel and a long, sinuous, and delightfully fluffy tail. With a golden brown coat and cavernous mouth, the weasel bear would be adorable if it didnt have such an intimidating snarl and murderous glare, one which raised Erdenes hackles even though the creature laid prone and bound from tail to snout. The sunlight did nothing to soothe the beasts anger, and in fact seemed to enrage it even more as it struggled against its bonds and threatened to break rope, cage, and even the cart beneath it.
Then Songs sweet mount offered a warning chitter in response which set the nearby quins to alert as they rushed over to help, which was somehow more reassuring than the Death Corps guards standing with her.
Honestly, if this man was an assassin, then he was a clever one indeed, for Rain wouldve taken one look at the weasel-bear and ignored the clear and present danger to free it from its bonds. Granted, Song wanted to do the same, but she was not so cavalier about regrowing lost body parts. After informing nephew-in-law Charok that there was no danger, Song got the full story from the nervous man. A hunter by trade, he found the beast in a pitfall trap he laid out on the plains to catch foxes. Instead of falling onto the spikes, the weasel-bear somehow latched onto the side, where it clung desperately for dear life since it lacked the ability to climb, jump, or burrow. By the time the hunter found it, it was weak with hunger and exhaustion, so seeing an opportunity to earn a fortune, he elicited help from his friends to capture the vicious and exotic creature alive. To bring it here, they kept it hungry and thirsty for twelve full days, never once giving it more than a morsel of meat and letting it drink by throwing water at its face. Small wonder the creature hated them and all of humanity in turn, which left Song with a pressing dilemma.
What to do with the beast now?
The hunter claimed the creature was not local to this region, nor had he or anyone he knew ever heard of such a ferocious beast, and Song was inclined to believe him. This weasel-bear was threatening enough to put a pack of roosequin on guard, who hunted wolves and bears on their own, much less as a group. Perhaps it had been displaced by all the turmoil in the west, or maybe it escaped from another enterprising animal seller who was less fortunate than this one, but either way, Song decided she had no choice but to buy it. The hunter tried to refuse, but he shut his mouth the moment she opened her pouch and revealed the gold coins sitting inside, which made her regret moving so quickly. Handing over five coins with a heavy heart, she waved the hunter away before turning to Tali and Tate. I cannot join you at the training grounds, she said, and they both nodded in mournful understanding, even as Tali handed over a bucket of water for the poor beast. They were a pragmatic pair and no doubt knew what needed to be done, but Song wasnt expecting them to be so... understanding. Rain probably would have refused and tried to free the pitiful floof from its bonds or something equally stupid. Leaving the other animals in their care, she brought the cart away to the eastern gates, where the weasel-bears threatening growls were quick to clear her path through the crowds and see her outside in record time.
Marching without thinking, she walked for the better part of an hour before realizing she couldnt go any further, else shed be late getting back to bring Papa his breakfast. Stopping in place, she turned to the poor weasel-bear which had stopped struggling some minutes past, panting as it lay weakly on its side and watched her with teary, brown eyes. Heart breaking at the sight of such surrender, she realized the creature would have long since turned Defiled if it were capable of human emotion, and might very well become a Demon if she delayed any longer, so the time to act was now.
Placing a hand on her sabre, Song closed her eyes, took a deep breath, and then acted without thinking.
Steel thrummed and air hissed as her sabre cut through wood and rope.
Leaving fur and bones intact.
The creature recovered so quickly she worried it had been feigning its weakness, but instead of launching itself at her, it reared back and growled in threat. Knowing better than to show fear or back away, Song drew herself up to full height and stared the creature down.
Which was soon followed by a strip of venison tossed by its feet. Luckily she saved the scraps from her back-up breakfast, else she wouldve had to risk stopping at the market for more food.
The transformation was astounding as the weasel-bear pounced on the meat with ravenous hunger, and Song almost felt like she was watching sweet Tate gobbling down the same treat. Though she could have given the beast everything at once, she wanted to give it time to calm down and grow acclimated to her presence, so she waited for a steady count of three seconds after it finished eating before throwing the next piece. In truth, she intended to wait for five seconds, but even though the weasel-bear was only slightly larger than a child, it was at least thrice as heavy judging by how hard Song had worked to get here, and its focused gaze unnerved her more than a bit.
There they stood on the open fields of Central, one slave who was not really a slave and one weasel-bear which was neither weasel nor bear, with the former feeding the latter venison one strip at a time. As the beast snatched the last strip out of the air, Song prayed to the Mother Above to watch over Her furry child and make it walk away peaceably, else she would have no choice but to kill the ferocious and somewhat adorable creature. After eating its fill, it ambled over to the bucket and began lapping up water, but its eyes remained fixed on Song even as its sizable claws left cracks and gouges in the wooden buckets frame with careless ease.
All by accident, presumably, though it could be trying to threaten her by Honing its claws. If so, then it was certainly working...
Licking its muzzle clean of grease and water, the weasel-bear snuffled and growled for more, but Song shook her head and put hand to sabre. Recognizing her actions for the threat they were, the beast snarled and eyed her for long seconds before sneezing twice, transforming from threatening monster to innocent floof in the blink of an eye. Raising its snout to sniff the air, it burped and turned away before hopping off the cart, where it immediately disappeared into the grass as it rushed off in search of more water and food.
Mother in Heaven, the beast could Conceal. A good thing it ambled away then, because it might well have been strong enough to kill Song outright.
Though mildly upset the beast didnt want to be friends, she did not begrudge its choice of freedom over comfort, for that was its nature, its Dao, even. Given the choice, she wasnt sure she wouldnt choose the same, even though Mama, Papa, Sister, and everyone else had been nothing but kind to her. She wanted this life she had now, but without her Oaths restraining her, except to do that, she needed to be powerful enough to resist the Heavens themselves. This was her reason for strength, she realized, so she might someday become powerful enough to free herself from her Oaths, even if it meant surpassing Ancestral Beasts and ascending to Divinity herself.
As she turned around for the lonely journey home, her regrets weighed heavily upon her. Setting the weasel-bear free was necessary, but she should have found somewhere further from the citadel and civilization. With the heavy human traffic in the area, there was a good chance the beast would find no prey to hunt. It might turn to raiding the few farms still in operation, farms guarded by Imperial soldiers to keep the workers from fleeing for safer pastures. This was as good as a death sentence for the beast, but she couldnt have gone much further even if she had the time because her slave Oaths would have soon come into effect, so she resolved to come back tomorrow morning with more food and water for the beast. Perhaps that would keep it from raiding the nearby farms or caravans, but then how would it survive once she left for the Central Citadel?
Less than a minute later, her worries melted away as she spotted Tursinai, Tenjin, and Papa come out of Concealment only a short distance away, and Song amended her earlier statement. Freedom from her Oaths was not all she strove for, but she also wanted the strength to protect her beloved family and considerate friends, instead of always being protected by them instead.
A far more achievable goal than the former, but a worthy one indeed. Though her Dao remained shrouded in mystery, at least now Song knew why she sought strength, and any progress was a cause for celebration. Minor and inconsequential though it might be, it was still a step along her Martial Path, one which brought her that much closer to the Peak, and perhaps even freedom beyond it.
For like Mama said, where there is life, there is hope, and Song would never give up on either one ever again.
Chapter Meme
Chapter 556: CompromiseIndecision was a formidable foe, one whose poisonous fangs were sunk deep into Songs flesh.This was not an issue shed been trained to deal with. Choice was not a luxury afforded to most slaves, and truth be told, she almost missed its absence. Being a slave was simple and straightforward, and the lack of decisions was almost reassuring at times, so long as she didnt dwell on all the horrible things she might be ordered to do. She found no sense in worrying though, because trials and tribulations would come regardless if she worried or not, so she had long since learned to focus on the moment and prepare for whatever the Heavens might throw her way. Being Oath-bound did not equate to a miserable existence, only the potential for one, and while it would be a lie to say she was never concerned or anxious about anything, she never allowed her misgivings to overwhelm her, like Rain so often did.It was one of his greatest flaws, a desperate need for answers to all of lifes questions. Today, however, she sympathized with his difficulties as she came across a dilemma she never thought shed have to face, one she spent long minutes wrestling with while standing in the empty dining room of her Citadel suite.What was she supposed to do about breakfast?Normally, Mama made this decision for her, after they watched the sunrise together while brushing her hair. Most of the time they would either head over to Brother Baatars manor or go out to the market for breakfast, but on rare occasions, Mama would cook and the two of them would enjoy a nice, quiet breakfast together at home. Song enjoyed those tranquil mornings the most, but she kept it to herself because she didnt want to impose. Mama wouldnt see it that way and would probably beam with delight if Song spoke up, but she was a busy woman with many duties and responsibilities, and cooking breakfast every morning would only add to her many burdens.Besides, Song also enjoyed eating with Brother Baatar and the rest of her extended family every now and then...Realizing she was procrastinating about making an actual decision, Song refocused her thoughts on the issue at hand. The easiest solution was to do nothing, and wait for someone to decide for her, which was only indecision by another name. Going over to Brother Baatars manor would be presumptuous, because even though nephew-in-law Charok always served breakfast warmly with a smile, Song was still an extra mouth to feed and therefore represented more work for him. However, if she went to the market of her own volition, she might inadvertently snub the considerate and good-natured cook if he expected her to come over for breakfast, which he might considering he knew Mama was absent and Song could not cook for herself. It would be best if he sent over an invitation, but the Bekhai were rarely so formal even with strangers, much less with family, so if she waited, then she might still be waiting several hours later when Papa finally woke from slumber.Only now did she understand the meaning of being spoiled for choice, and Song inwardly apologized to Rain for all the times shed scorned him for uncertainty.In the end, Sarankhos impatience forced Song into action, so she settled on a half-hearted compromise. After brushing the wildcat and feeding the Laughing Birds, she rode Erdene out to the market, where she purchased a roasted deer haunch for herself in case nephew-in-law didnt account for her while cooking. If he had, then she could just feed the meat to the animals, as her quin and wildcat assumed she would, already squeaking and mewling in gluttonous harmony. While peeling strips off to share with them, Roc swooped down and landed atop Erdenes head, greedily eyeing the roasted meat and giving Song a pleasant surprise. The other Laughing Birds were nowhere to be seen, but apparently Roc had grown tired of staying cooped up all winter and was ready to soar through the skies once again.A decision Song somewhat envied the bird for, because she could never be unfettered and free...Upon arriving at Brother Baatars manor, Song stopped outside to knock and wait. Mama usually just barged inside, so Songs actions prompted questioning looks from the Death Corps slaves standing guard and a burst of Sent laughter from Tursinai who was Concealed somewhere nearby. Cheeks colouring in embarrassment, Song scolded herself for not considering her watchful guardians. If shed thought to reach out regarding her breakfast dilemma, Tursinai would have responded, and then Song couldve left the decision in the older Khishigs hands. Before she could speak up, the double-doors cracked open a sliver before Tate threw them wide open and wrapped his arms around her waist. Morning Li-Li, he shouted, before leaning back so she could see his curious expression from over the haunch of meat. Why dyou knock? Just come in, ya? Fixing his eyes on the half-eaten haunch, he asked, Can I have a piece?Tate. At the sound of his fathers stern disapproval emanating from the dining room, the darling boy shrank back in contrition, even though neither of them were visible. What did we say about opening the door?To not do it, because it could be dangerous. Head lowered in shame, Tate added, Sorry Papa, I forgot.Feeling terrible for having gotten him in trouble, Song handed him a long strip of meat and watched him stuff the whole piece into his mouth as if afraid the pets would steal it, but they were too well-trained for that. His voracious appetite put a smile on Songs lips, but it didnt last long as Charok said, And did you also forget what I said about finishing whats in your bowl before asking for more food?Having gotten Tate into trouble twice now in less than a minute, Song quickly ushered the boy back into the courtyard and tried to wordlessly convey that she was to blame, but nephew-in-law Charok flashed her an understanding smile before falling back into his stern, fatherly mannerisms. Come back and finish your breakfast. Glancing at her haunch of meat with a raised eyebrow, he refrained from commenting and added, But Tate is right. You are family, so our home is your home.Unsure how to respond, Song merely nodded and checked the table to find more food than Charok, Tali, and Tate could finish. Bolstered by the knowledge that her presence had been expected, she fed the bulk of her backup breakfast to the animals while greeting them each in kind. The bunnies were all absent and probably still sleeping, but little Blackjack was here, as were the bears and wildcats. She offered some meat to Tali as well, but the darling girl shook her head and declared, Papas cooking is yummier. This earned her a smile and a pat on the head from her father and a jealous scowl from her brother, but Song had to agree, so she quickly put an end to the animal feeding session and stuffed the remaining strips of meat into her pouch for later.Judging by the empty seats and used tableware, Brother Baatar and the Medical Saint had both already eaten and left, and there was no one else present besides Charok and the twins. It would be hours before Lin-Lin woke, and these days Rain slept in almost as much, so with everyone else still at the grove, it was just the four of them in the dining room today. She wasnt accustomed to spending time with nephew-in-law Charok in such a close and intimate setting, but thankfully he didnt press her for conversation or seem discomforted by her silence. Tate however, was another matter, and he bombarded her with question after question regarding yesterdays trip to the farm and the incidents thereafter, while sweet Tali joined in with a wide-eyed, pleading gaze which Song found impossible to refuse. Luckily, they already heard most of the relevant details from their father and grandfather, so Song had little to add, but the twins still worked together to eke out every scrap of information she had to offer. Given his martial aspirations, Tates questions focused on the assassins and battles, so his enthusiasm dampened when she told him she didnt take part in any combat. When he shifted focus to the grove and Insights, Charok stopped him short to warn him against over-reaching on the Martial Path, which was good because she wasnt entirely sure how to answer Tates questions. Hearing Sister Mila, Yan, and Luo-Luo talk about their experiences in the grove left Song mildly unsettled, because while they were given a glimpse of what their Dao might be, she merely received a handful of basic Insights into the Forms, which was no different from what she could find through normal meditation. To make matters worse, Song was the only one to come out of her trance early, which together felt like it meant she was still sorely lacking in comparison to the others. It shouldnt have mattered, for each must walk their own Path at their own pace, but it vexed her to know shed been outdone by Yan and even Luo-Luo, who had only been taking the Martial Dao seriously for less than a year.Pride in her martial skills was one of the few pleasures Song could enjoy when shed been nothing more than a slave, and while she had so much more to appreciate now, she still yearned to follow the Martial Dao to the apex because...Well... Like Rain, she wasnt entirely sure why she sought strength, but she still wanted it.Why did the groundhog run away, Li-Li? Talis innocuous question broke Song out of her reverie and she looked down at the sweet girls mournful pout. He couldve been like the quins and wildcats, ya? Our cute little friend, all happy and safe and fed.He is a wild animal, Song replied, and she thought of Roc soaring through the skies, though the fat bird was currently hopping around the courtyard and harassing the much larger, but more forgiving wildcats and bears. One which has only ever known a life of freedom, so for him, captivity is a terrifying thing. Out there, he can follow his hearts desires wherever they might bring him, and for some, danger and insecurity are a small price to pay for freedom and independence.A price which Song couldnt pay even if she wanted to...Is weasel-bear, the man said, holding his hands up as if he could forcibly hold the Death Corps back. Furry beast, for sale, yes? It fall in pit, and this one think to sell to noble Rain. While most would see nothing wrong with calling Rain a noble, the Death Corps saw it as an insult to their esteemed Imperial Consort, but the poor man mistook their collective displeasure for aggression. No sell, gift, gift, he stammered, wavering between standing his ground and falling to his knees as the Death Corps glowered as one. Is gift. Please great ones, spare you this fool.Curiosity getting the better of her, Song ordered the man to remove the canvas cover, which he promptly did, and decided weasel-bear was an apt name. While only half as large as the adolescent Banjo and Baloo, the stocky beast trapped inside the wooden cage had a bulky and muscular torso like a bear, with the face of a weasel and a long, sinuous, and delightfully fluffy tail. With a golden brown coat and cavernous mouth, the weasel bear would be adorable if it didnt have such an intimidating snarl and murderous glare, one which raised Erdenes hackles even though the creature laid prone and bound from tail to snout. The sunlight did nothing to soothe the beasts anger, and in fact seemed to enrage it even more as it struggled against its bonds and threatened to break rope, cage, and even the cart beneath it.Then Songs sweet mount offered a warning chitter in response which set the nearby quins to alert as they rushed over to help, which was somehow more reassuring than the Death Corps guards standing with her.Honestly, if this man was an assassin, then he was a clever one indeed, for Rain wouldve taken one look at the weasel-bear and ignored the clear and present danger to free it from its bonds. Granted, Song wanted to do the same, but she was not so cavalier about regrowing lost body parts. After informing nephew-in-law Charok that there was no danger, Song got the full story from the nervous man. A hunter by trade, he found the beast in a pitfall trap he laid out on the plains to catch foxes. Instead of falling onto the spikes, the weasel-bear somehow latched onto the side, where it clung desperately for dear life since it lacked the ability to climb, jump, or burrow. By the time the hunter found it, it was weak with hunger and exhaustion, so seeing an opportunity to earn a fortune, he elicited help from his friends to capture the vicious and exotic creature alive. To bring it here, they kept it hungry and thirsty for twelve full days, never once giving it more than a morsel of meat and letting it drink by throwing water at its face. Small wonder the creature hated them and all of humanity in turn, which left Song with a pressing dilemma.What to do with the beast now?The hunter claimed the creature was not local to this region, nor had he or anyone he knew ever heard of such a ferocious beast, and Song was inclined to believe him. This weasel-bear was threatening enough to put a pack of roosequin on guard, who hunted wolves and bears on their own, much less as a group. Perhaps it had been displaced by all the turmoil in the west, or maybe it escaped from another enterprising animal seller who was less fortunate than this one, but either way, Song decided she had no choice but to buy it. The hunter tried to refuse, but he shut his mouth the moment she opened her pouch and revealed the gold coins sitting inside, which made her regret moving so quickly. Handing over five coins with a heavy heart, she waved the hunter away before turning to Tali and Tate. I cannot join you at the training grounds, she said, and they both nodded in mournful understanding, even as Tali handed over a bucket of water for the poor beast. They were a pragmatic pair and no doubt knew what needed to be done, but Song wasnt expecting them to be so... understanding. Rain probably would have refused and tried to free the pitiful floof from its bonds or something equally stupid. Leaving the other animals in their care, she brought the cart away to the eastern gates, where the weasel-bears threatening growls were quick to clear her path through the crowds and see her outside in record time.Marching without thinking, she walked for the better part of an hour before realizing she couldnt go any further, else shed be late getting back to bring Papa his breakfast. Stopping in place, she turned to the poor weasel-bear which had stopped struggling some minutes past, panting as it lay weakly on its side and watched her with teary, brown eyes. Heart breaking at the sight of such surrender, she realized the creature would have long since turned Defiled if it were capable of human emotion, and might very well become a Demon if she delayed any longer, so the time to act was now.Placing a hand on her sabre, Song closed her eyes, took a deep breath, and then acted without thinking.Steel thrummed and air hissed as her sabre cut through wood and rope.Leaving fur and bones intact.The creature recovered so quickly she worried it had been feigning its weakness, but instead of launching itself at her, it reared back and growled in threat. Knowing better than to show fear or back away, Song drew herself up to full height and stared the creature down.Which was soon followed by a strip of venison tossed by its feet. Luckily she saved the scraps from her back-up breakfast, else she wouldve had to risk stopping at the market for more food.The transformation was astounding as the weasel-bear pounced on the meat with ravenous hunger, and Song almost felt like she was watching sweet Tate gobbling down the same treat. Though she could have given the beast everything at once, she wanted to give it time to calm down and grow acclimated to her presence, so she waited for a steady count of three seconds after it finished eating before throwing the next piece. In truth, she intended to wait for five seconds, but even though the weasel-bear was only slightly larger than a child, it was at least thrice as heavy judging by how hard Song had worked to get here, and its focused gaze unnerved her more than a bit.There they stood on the open fields of Central, one slave who was not really a slave and one weasel-bear which was neither weasel nor bear, with the former feeding the latter venison one strip at a time. As the beast snatched the last strip out of the air, Song prayed to the Mother Above to watch over Her furry child and make it walk away peaceably, else she would have no choice but to kill the ferocious and somewhat adorable creature. After eating its fill, it ambled over to the bucket and began lapping up water, but its eyes remained fixed on Song even as its sizable claws left cracks and gouges in the wooden buckets frame with careless ease.All by accident, presumably, though it could be trying to threaten her by Honing its claws. If so, then it was certainly working...Licking its muzzle clean of grease and water, the weasel-bear snuffled and growled for more, but Song shook her head and put hand to sabre. Recognizing her actions for the threat they were, the beast snarled and eyed her for long seconds before sneezing twice, transforming from threatening monster to innocent floof in the blink of an eye. Raising its snout to sniff the air, it burped and turned away before hopping off the cart, where it immediately disappeared into the grass as it rushed off in search of more water and food.Mother in Heaven, the beast could Conceal. A good thing it ambled away then, because it might well have been strong enough to kill Song outright.Though mildly upset the beast didnt want to be friends, she did not begrudge its choice of freedom over comfort, for that was its nature, its Dao, even. Given the choice, she wasnt sure she wouldnt choose the same, even though Mama, Papa, Sister, and everyone else had been nothing but kind to her. She wanted this life she had now, but without her Oaths restraining her, except to do that, she needed to be powerful enough to resist the Heavens themselves. This was her reason for strength, she realized, so she might someday become powerful enough to free herself from her Oaths, even if it meant surpassing Ancestral Beasts and ascending to Divinity herself.As she turned around for the lonely journey home, her regrets weighed heavily upon her. Setting the weasel-bear free was necessary, but she should have found somewhere further from the citadel and civilization. With the heavy human traffic in the area, there was a good chance the beast would find no prey to hunt. It might turn to raiding the few farms still in operation, farms guarded by Imperial soldiers to keep the workers from fleeing for safer pastures. This was as good as a death sentence for the beast, but she couldnt have gone much further even if she had the time because her slave Oaths would have soon come into effect, so she resolved to come back tomorrow morning with more food and water for the beast. Perhaps that would keep it from raiding the nearby farms or caravans, but then how would it survive once she left for the Central Citadel?Less than a minute later, her worries melted away as she spotted Tursinai, Tenjin, and Papa come out of Concealment only a short distance away, and Song amended her earlier statement. Freedom from her Oaths was not all she strove for, but she also wanted the strength to protect her beloved family and considerate friends, instead of always being protected by them instead.A far more achievable goal than the former, but a worthy one indeed. Though her Dao remained shrouded in mystery, at least now Song knew why she sought strength, and any progress was a cause for celebration. Minor and inconsequential though it might be, it was still a step along her Martial Path, one which brought her that much closer to the Peak, and perhaps even freedom beyond it.For like Mama said, where there is life, there is hope, and Song would never give up on either one ever again.Chapter Meme
