Dungeon Walkers

Book 3

Daniel Schinhofen

Copyright © 2022 Daniel J. Schinhofen

No parts of this book may be reproduced in any form by an electronic or mechanical means – except in the case of brief quotations embodied in articles or reviews – without the written permission from the publisher.

The characters and events portrayed in this book are fictitious. Any similarities to real persons, living or dead, are purely coincidental and not intended by the author.

Copyright © 2022 Daniel J. Schinhofen

All rights reserved.

Contents

Chapter One

Chapter Two

Chapter Three

Chapter Four

Chapter Five

Chapter Six

Chapter Seven

Chapter Eight

Chapter Nine

Chapter Ten

Chapter Eleven

Chapter Twelve

Chapter Thirteen

Chapter Fourteen

Chapter Fifteen

Chapter Sixteen

Chapter Seventeen

Chapter Eighteen

Chapter Nineteen

Chapter Twenty

Chapter Twenty-one

Chapter Twenty-two

Chapter Twenty-three

Chapter Twenty-four

Chapter Twenty-five

Chapter Twenty-six

Chapter Twenty-seven

Chapter Twenty-eight

Chapter Twenty-nine

Chapter Thirty

Chapter Thirty-one

Chapter Thirty-two

Chapter Thirty-three

Chapter Thirty-four

Chapter Thirty-five

Chapter Thirty-six

Chapter Thirty-seven

Chapter Thirty-eight

Chapter Thirty-nine

Chapter Forty

Chapter Forty-one

Chapter Forty-two

Chapter Forty-three

Chapter Forty-four

Chapter Forty-five

Chapter Forty-six

Chapter Forty-seven

Chapter Forty-eight

Chapter One

Stern read over the letter he’d just finished writing.

Dad,

I hope you and the rest of the family are well. I figured I should update you on what’s happened since my last letter asking for your help. Cyra, Trish, Cammie, and I just made it to Mistwood. It took a couple of weeks through the woods to get here from Whitewater. We found a lot of mistweavers, more than I thought there should be, but no swarms or bosses, luckily. The dark willow shoots are getting heavy in the area, too. We had to fight off a couple of the saplings. Cammie shone brightly for us during those skirmishes, with her flammable traps.

We got into town late last night, found a room, and passed out. We’ll be taking today and possibly tomorrow off to get our gear in order for our run, drop off our quests, and do other odds and ends. Well, that, and we need to find another one or two to fill out the crew again. As you probably figured out, we lost Vulk in Whitewater. He settled down with a woman named Emma Pinage, the daughter of Ruddy Pinage, owner of the Deep Mug. They said you drank there once, and one of my mothers told them about pretzels. The owner named a dark ale after your group, and he loves to tell people how you all stopped in once.

I got ahead of myself, let me back up some. When you helped get Vulk and Cammie’s mother, Urika, from the dungeon in Winterspring, it set the stage for a big shift in their lives. Vulk no longer felt guilty, so he set aside running and married Emma. Urika is staying with them while she gets her feet under her again, and Cammie decided to keep running with us.

As for why she did, she seems to be interested in joining Cyra, Trish, and I in our relationship. It’s not a sure thing, but with my empathy, it feels like it. She’s been doing small things that give us all that idea, so it’s not just my imagination. It’s going to take a complicated relationship to a place you know all too well. Go ahead and laugh, show it around to my mothers.

I was writing to you for a specific reason, though. We’d talked about meeting in the copper ranks, but I wanted to ask you to move it down to nickel. We’re in Mistwood and will be here for a while. Then, we’ll move onto Goldwood before finally getting to Blackwood. I’d like to meet you in Blackwood. I’ve been thinking hard over the last few weeks, and I want to ask them to marry me, and I want you there for the wedding. The entire family (even my obnoxious siblings), along with Marysue and Gerald.

Write back and let me know. I’d like to know how your dungeon run went and if the new town is secure. I want to thank you again for supporting me like you did in my attempt to show myself as my own man. That might all break when we meet, but that’s fine. I’ve found love and acceptance, and I no longer need to try proving things to anyone other than my family, and soon-to-be-wives.

Your loving son, always,

Alistern Masterson

Stern nodded, then folded the letter up. This will work out. I hope we know where Cammie stands with us by then, but if we don’t, that’s fine, too, Stern thought.

“Stern, you good to get the gear cleaned?” Cyra asked, coming into the room.

“Yeah. Did you all get the things you wanted?” Stern asked as he put his letter away.

“We did,” Cyra smiled. She brushed one of her long, floppy bunny ears out of her face. “What were you doing?”

“Letting Dad know how much Cammie and her family appreciated what they did for us and them,” Stern said. “I’ll post it in a day or two.”

“That really was sweet of them,” Cyra whispered as she crossed the room to him, kissing him briefly. “The others are waiting for us.”

Stern helped gather up their gear, carting it out to the living room. “Sorry about that. Let’s get maintenance done.”

“Are we going to scout for more people tonight or tomorrow morning?” Cammie asked. She pulled out her small crossbow first to check it over.

“I’m thinking we should just scout tomorrow,” Trish said, checking her shield.

Stern gave the redhead a loving look as he sat down beside her. “Tomorrow would be best. Oh, that needs to be replaced. You see that crack?”

Trish looked at where he pointed. “Shit... glad that survived until we got here. Mistweavers are bad enough with a shield.”

“Yeah. We might also be shopping tomorrow,” Stern said. He gave Cammie a smile. “Make sure to see if you need anything replaced, too.”

The dwarven woman looked down at her crossbow. “I will. Do you think they’ve settled in?”

“Your brother and Emma?” Cyra asked as she checked over her armor.

“Yes. I worry for them, which is silly.”

“With your mother and her parents to help them, I’m sure they’re fine,” Trish chuckled. “You might be an aunt quicker than you expected to be, though.”

Cammie laughed as she oiled the crossbow. “A year ago, I’d have been shocked. When they married, I figured I’d be an aunt in a year at the most. As I said, it was a silly question.”

“A year or less for them to have a kid,” Stern said. “And no, I don’t think it was silly. You’re in a new place. Your mother is alive again, your brother settled down, and you’re here with us. Everything you knew a few months ago has changed. The real question is whether or not you’re happy?”

Cammie looked up, seeing him inspecting his daggers. Her eyes shifted to Trish, who’d gone on to look over her scale armor. She settled on Cyra last, where the healer was still checking her modified leather armor. “I am. It’s a little odd to me, but I am.”

“I can feel the happiness, but also your uncertainty,” Stern said softly.

Sighing, Cammie set the crossbow down, done with it. She picked up her own armor to inspect it. “I feel like a fifth wheel at times, is all. Once we get others in, that should hopefully stop.”

Stern wasn’t sure about that. He glanced at Trish, who looked doubtful, as well. “We’ll find out soon, then.”

“Trish, I have a few small holes for you to fix,” Cyra said. “I marked them for you.”

Trish looked over to see Cyra setting the chalk aside. “Easy to find and fix, then easy to clean off. I never would’ve thought of it.”

“Thank my parents when you meet them,” Stern said.

“I will, but for more than that,” Trish smiled.

“I’ll thank them, too,” Cammie said, “for what they did for my family.”

“I... uh... I wrote them, letting them know the outcome of that,” Stern told her. “This way, they know exactly the good they did.”

Cammie looked up. “Thank you, Stern. I was going to ask you if I could write them to let them know. If you’ve already done it, then it’s fine.”

“If you want to include your own letter with mine, I can mail it out?”

“Oh, I’ll do it after this, then,” Cammie smiled, meeting his nearly colorless eyes briefly before looking away again. “Thank you.”

Stern felt her emotional tangle, but didn’t try to figure it out— she would approach them if she was interested. He wasn’t chasing anyone. He already had Cyra and Trish.

“After gear, maybe we can let the Walkers’ hall know that we have two openings?” Cyra suggested after a few seconds of silence. “It might make it easier to find others, right?”

“It could. I’d request at least one of them be a caster,” Trish said. “We’ve been lacking in that department. Our one attempt at having a caster was… bad.”

“Michael,” Stern nodded. “I hope he figured out that being a Walker wasn’t for him. The thing is, I almost feel like he would’ve been okay in a hallway dungeon. I think the fact that we were in an open dungeon did that.”

“He was afraid of being swarmed,” Cyra said. “He did okay at the start, even if he was panicking.”

Cammie winced. “I still feel bad for shooting Pawly in that dungeon.” She looked at the sofa where Pawly was napping.

Pawly cracked an eye open; she had the same color eyes as Stern. With a big yawn, she rolled onto her back, exposing her belly to the world.

“Trap,” Stern snorted.

A small meow came from Pawly as she rolled back to her original spot and closed her eyes again.

“You’ll get dinner when we do, fur-face,” Stern said. “We all know you’re cute.”

“I’ve been happy she sleeps with me,” Cammie said. “It made the trip through the Mist Wood a lot nicer.”

“She’s a great cuddler,” Cyra smiled. “Aren’t you?”

Pawly purred, snuggling into the sofa.

“Okay, my scale held up fine against the spiders,” Trish exhaled. “Stern, I love the helmet, but it was a nightmare with the webs.” She tapped the bunnicorn-horned helmet. “I was thinking of seeing if we can sell it for a potential upgrade.”

Stern looked at the helmet; there was a history to it for him and Cyra. “No. We’ll get you a new helmet, but I’ll send this one to my parents, and they’ll pass it on to one of my siblings. If none of them want it, I’ll have it set aside for when we finish running.”

“Yes, please,” Cyra said. “It’ll make a good reminder for us.”

“What’s its story?” Cammie asked.

“Oh, it goes back to when it was just Cyra and I on our way back to Blackstone,” Stern said. “It was a wild boss that Pawly found while we were doing a bunnicorn quest. She took it down all by herself, the proud hunter that she is.”

Pawly purred loudly, her eyes open and staring at Stern.

“Uh-oh. Someone wants to hear you sing her praises,” Trish laughed.

Stern set his daggers aside. One of them had a chipped blade and would need serious work or to be replaced. He picked up his pneumatic crossbow to check it. “Luckily for her, I can praise her skills and do my job at the same time.”

“Please,” Cammie chuckled. “I’d like to hear about it.”

“Sure. We picked up quests in Brightstone…”

Chapter Two

Stern was behind Trish as they entered the Walkers’ guildhall. The place was mostly doing good business, and would only get busier as more crews finished their runs for the day. This hall was bigger than the ones in the previous cities, and the halls would only get bigger as they advanced north, eventually reaching the current highest tiers.

The receptionist desk sat in the far back corner. Next to it, there was another desk— Stern knew it had a plaque on it declaring it as the Rescue Squad’s receptionist. Down the wall from them was the quest board. It was full of quests that spanned from the highest rank all the way down to lead-tier. The bar was along the wall near the desk, where Walkers would drown their sorrows or drink in celebration.

Stern felt the mood in the place shift when people spotted him. A lot of anger and fear filled the room in the span of a few heartbeats. Stern turned to face them, his badge clear on his chest. “Irregular, not blighted,” he said firmly. “Crew leader of Pawsitively Irregular.”

Trish stopped, turning to the crowd with a raised eyebrow. “You think a blighted would just casually stroll into a Walkers’ hall?”

Someone laughed. “That would end badly for them.”

“Yeah, it would,” someone else laughed.

The tension broke, but a few people still held to their anger and hate. “How can we be sure? Maybe he’s controlling you. They say the oldest blighted can do that.”

Trish snickered. “Trust me. When it comes down to who controls who in our relationship, it isn’t him in charge. Bulwarks are hard to control.” She stood with one hip canted and a knowing smirk on her lips.

That got more laughter, and jeers at the man who’d spoken up.

“Excuse me. We have quests to turn in,” Stern said as he moved past Trish.

“Go ahead, lover,” Trish said, kissing his cheek when he went by. “So, which of you is a caster without a crew? I’ll be looking to fill our two open spots before we go for our run.”

That settled the crowd down. Most of them turned back to their previous conversations or started wondering who’d join the obvious freak crew. Two people watched Trish and Stern with interest from a small table, but they didn’t get up.

Not seeing anyone calling for her attention, Trish sighed. “Guess we’ll have to try tomorrow outside the dungeon.”

Stern came to a stop in front of the Walkers’ desk. “Excuse me, miss, I have quests to turn in. Dark willow shoots.” He placed the bag on the counter. “Along with that, we killed mistweavers. Is the guild interested in their glands or silk?”

The receptionist smiled a little woodenly. “Ah, we are. We just got requests from an alchemist and a tailor for those items.”

“I’d like to turn these in, then, if you don’t mind?” Stern asked as he placed two smaller bags on the desk.

The woman relaxed fractionally. “Sorry. Of course.”

“It’s okay. I’m used to it,” Stern said with a hint of sadness. “I was in Whitewater for a bit. The city and Walkers there were just getting used to me. Figured I’d be right back to normal here.”

The receptionist looked away from him for a second. Gathering herself, she looked back toward him with a smile. “Walker, thank you for completing your quests.” Picking up the tablet on her desk, she held it out to him. “Dominant hand, please.”

Stern pressed his left hand to the tablet, grimacing at the odd sensation that it always caused.

She took it back a moment later, looking it over. “That was a lot of mistweavers.”

“Yeah. No boss or swarm that we found.”

“Still troubling... I’ll let the higher-ups know. Now, to check these.” She went through the bags, then nodded. “I see your crew has you collecting all the quest rewards. Let me grab that for you.”

“Half, please,” Stern said. “Place the rest on our recovery accounts.”

The receptionist paused, then nodded. “Few think of doing so at these levels.”

“I know,” Stern said softly.

She was swift to count out the money for him. “Here you go, Walker. Safe runs to you.”

“Thank you,” Stern said.

He walked the ten feet to the other desk. For a moment, he frowned, then chuckled. “Caused a lot of confusion when you were younger, didn’t you?”

The Rescue Squad receptionist grinned. “My twin and I got up to a lot of mischief when we were younger. Didn’t we, Harriet?”

The other receptionist shrugged. “You did, Matilda. I was the good child.”

“Yeah, sure. Who was it that stole Dad’s boots to stop him from going to work?”

“That doesn’t count,” Harriet sighed. “Deal with the man in front of you.”

Matilda gave Stern a grin. “Siblings, am I right?”

“Yeah, I know how it is. I need to register my crew for the Rescue Squad.”

“The others will need to register themselves. We know not every member wants to agree to our terms.”

“I’ll sign up with him now, and the other two will be in tomorrow,” Trish said from behind Stern.

“Very well. Just need your hand on the tablet and clear wording as to which dungeons you’ll leave open for us,” Matilda said.

Stern and Trish both agreed that, going forward, they would leave the third run open, barring having to retrieve their own. Matilda nodded as she made sure it was recorded.

“You two are signed up. If you do use your runs, just update with any hall,” Matilda said.

“We will. I also want to see about retrieving up to two shards on our first run here,” Stern said. “Preferably the ones that have been here longest that we can do with that restriction.”

“Starting strong,” Matilda smiled. “Let me look.”

“To date, we’ve pulled out a handful of fractured,” Trish said softly. “Pawsitively Irregular does what we can to help those who languish return to the living.”

Matilda blinked slowly, then looked back at her tablet. After a moment, she exhaled slowly. “I see. Yes, there are those who owe you their rebirth, years in waiting before you got them out. Let me find the oldest one or two I can get you.”

Stern heard the whispers behind them, as those who’d heard Matilda started spreading the news. Shock was the biggest emotion, but worry was right behind it. He knew they were wondering why he would do what he was.

“There’s someone who’s waited eight years with a single shard, and another at six years. If you want two shards from the same person, I’m seeing one who’s been waiting five years,” Matilda said as she scanned her tablet.

“Eight years for the last shard?” Stern whispered. “Goddess.”

“Their payment was never increased,” Matilda said softly. “You seem to know how it is.”

“We do,” Trish said, “which is why we ask for the oldest fractured that we can get for two shards. It diminishes what we can pick up from the shop, but it helps those who came before us, too.”

“We’ll take them,” Stern said. “Who are we pulling shards for?”

“Jay Pez and Doni Durham. Eight and six years respectively.”

“Barring needing to reclaim our own, we’ll pull them out,” Stern said.

“I hope you have a safe run.”

“Thank you,” Trish said. “Come on, Stern, we’re going to drop those letters off.”

Stern nodded, but as he turned to go, he looked at the hall staring at them in silence. “You’re all wondering why, aren’t you?”

“Well, yeah,” an angelic said, her wings rustling lightly. “It’s… odd.”

“Because the fractured should always be brought back out. Personally, I came a hair away from losing my parents to a run. The remaining member of their crew had to gather favors to go back in to bring them out. Then, they had to go without him to get the rest. The pain of knowing how close we all come to leaving family behind drives me. If I run, I’ll always try to help bring a person back with me, just as I would hope to be brought back out myself. It’s what Rescue Squad is all about. Before we got here, we pulled others from tin, and even one from lead. I can’t do it all myself, but I’ll do my best. I believe in Rescue Squad’s mission.”

“Even with the hate everyone gives you?” the angelic asked softly.

Stern smiled sadly. “I understand the fear and hatred. I can only thank the Goddess for her past decree that the slaying of irregulars like me stop. She’s done what she could for us, but it behooves us— the irregulars who can— to show why she decreed as she did. I’ve met past Walkers who ran with people like me. None of them spoke poorly of them. They only felt sorrow for what the irregular endured. What you feel or do is up to you, but I’ll continue to let my actions speak for me.”

“What’s your crew name?” someone in the crowd called out.

“Pawsitively Irregular,” Trish answered. “As you can see, there’s a reason for that. We’ll show the other reason just before we go for our run. Tomorrow, we’ll be gearing and hopefully filling our crew out, but the day after that, we’ll be going in. If you want to see us in all our irregular glory, come to the dungeon.”

“I’ll be there,” the angelic said. “Safe runs.”

“Safe runs,” Stern said back. “We have other errands to run, so please pardon us.”

There was muted conversation as they left. Stern felt some incredulity, but curiosity was a bigger component of the emotions in the hall. There was still at least one person who hated them, but Stern wasn’t going to let that drag down his mood.

“That went fairly well,” Trish said as they walked down the street.

“Better than I thought it would. I hate being the center of attention, but it looks like it’s going to keep being a thing.”

“You’ll always be one of the centers of my attention,” Trish smirked, bumping his hip with hers.

“And I can never thank you enough.”

“Oh, I bet you can try. Say... later tonight?” Trish winked.

Stern just laughed as he grabbed her hand, holding it while they went to drop off the letters. “I won’t say no, now that we have a room that is.”

“I was very good during our time in the woods,” Trish sniffed. “Barely did anything bad at all.”

“Uh-huh,” Stern said. “I could begin the list, if you need a refresher?”

“For me, I was very good.”

Stern considered her words, then nodded. “Well, if you move the bar, you’d be correct.”

“All about perspective,” Trish grinned, then she sobered some. “I was wondering... your family... we will meet them, right?”

“Yeah. My last letter with them suggested copper tier as a possibility,” Stern said, wanting to keep his secret for a bit.

“That soon? Oh... Won’t it give away who you are?”

“It probably will, even if we try to hide it,” Stern said. “I don’t have the same pressing need to do it all myself anymore. I have you and Cyra. As long as you two are with me, it doesn’t matter what others think.”

Trish’s heart beat a little faster, and she squeezed his hand. “We’ll be beside you the whole way, lover.”

Her love and his own swelled inside him. It made him smile broadly, helping insulate him against the fear and hatred of those around them.

Chapter Three

Stern exhaled slowly as he woke up. The feeling of being held by the women he loved always made him smile. Brown hair and bunny ears to his right, and short-cropped, red hair to his left. Trish had more hard lean muscle on her than Cyra, but neither was carrying what his mother called “padding.” Trish was used to carrying the armor and swinging her hammer and shield to be their bulwark. Cyra was much better than she’d been when Stern had first met her, no longer his equal in gauntness. She was still lean, but she wasn’t at the skeletal thinness he was, starting to fill out her frame to normal proportions again.

If he was being honest with himself, he wasn’t as thin as he looked when he was dressed. His face and hands were emaciated, but the rest of him had solid, lean muscle; he just had no body fat. No matter how much he ate, his body just kept zero fat on it. Both Cyra and Trish kept telling him that he was handsome, and he was trying to accept it.

“Hmm?” Trish murmured as she shifted. “Is it time to get up?”

“I see the hints of light coming in, so day isn’t far off,” Stern whispered.

“It feels like it’s time,” Cyra yawned.

“Check for potential crew members, then shopping,” Stern said. “I need a new dagger, Trish is getting a new shield and helm, and we need to replace our supply of salve and other dungeon necessities.”

“Breakfast first,” Cyra murmured before kissing Stern, then rolling out of bed.

“Right. Breakfast, check with the crewless Walkers near the dungeon, then off to shop,” Trish sighed as she got out of bed. “Going to be interesting, considering our stop at the hall yesterday.”

“I’m hoping some good comes from it,” Stern said as he followed them. “I kind of miss Whitewater already, though.”

“They really did start to accept you,” Trish nodded.

“Maybe when we clear all the dungeons and settle down, it’ll happen again,” Cyra said.

Stern was thoughtful as he got dressed. Settling down never sounded good before, but after that small taste of people getting used to me, and the idea of these as my wives… Stern’s thoughts let the daydream of Cyra and Trish being his wives play out in his mind for a moment.

“You going to put those pants on?” Trish chuckled, snapping Stern out of his dreams.

“Huh? Oh yeah, sorry.”

“Must’ve been a good thought,” Cyra smiled as she pulled her shirt on. “You were smiling.”

“It was,” Stern said, giving her a soft smile.

Trish kissed his cheek. “Well, get a move on, or her majesty will be upset that her breakfast is late.”

“Yeah, because she’s a cat,” Stern laughed, thinking about Pawly huffing at his delay.

He was a minute behind his lovers and, as Trish had predicted, Pawly stared at Stern when he finally left the room. Pawly was sitting by the front door— she huffed at him, then turned to face the door.

“She just got there,” Cammie laughed. “Before you all came out, she was in my lap, purring contentedly.”

“Cat,” Stern shrugged. “Let’s get breakfast before she decides that she really is annoyed.”

The four of them— five with Pawly— made it down to the taproom. It was busier than Stern expected, but he quickly saw that most of the people there were finishing their breakfasts. It was clear that the majority of them were crews who were about to head out for their runs.

An older woman was clearing plates off a table, and she waved them over. “This one is free… err…?” She hesitated upon seeing Stern.

“He’s the irregular,” the man behind the bar told her. “Seriously, Mother, I told you we had one in. We’ll have your breakfasts out shortly, along with some tea.”

The older woman huffed as she carried the dishes away.

They took their seats, thanking the bartender as they did. Stern was about to pull a chair out for Pawly when two people approached their table. He’d been aware of them, but had thought they were waiting for the rest of their group. Now that they were approaching them, he figured differently.

“Excuse me,” the angelic man said. “We heard you yesterday at the hall. You have two places open on your crew, right?”

“We do. We expected to find people after breakfast,” Trish smiled. “Would you care to join us?”

“Yes, but we’ve eaten already,” the man said. He pulled a chair out and sat the woman with him. “I’m Jon Benderson. This is my wife, Nicole.”

Nicole wore a lightweight cloak, but it was pulled tightly around her. Her hood was pulled low so just a wisp of blond hair was visible. “Good morning,” Her voice carried her elven heritage, but it was light.

“Good morning,” Trish said slowly, curious as to why the woman was covered the way she was.

Stern felt the worry, trepidation, and hope coming from Nicole. “It’s good to meet you both. You don’t mind if we eat, do you?”

“Not at all,” Jon said.

Pawly jumped into Stern’s lap, staring at Nicole. She let out a soft meow, then climbed onto the table, moving to flop directly in front of Nicole.

Nicole jerked back for a second before she laughed lightly. A gloved hand came out of the cloak to pet Pawly. “Hello... you’re pretty.”

“Pawly is my companion,” Stern said. “She’s also a valued member of our crew. It’s her paw that decorates our badges.”

The married couple looked at Pawly’s paws, which were gently kneading the air as she was being petted.

“Oh, she’s polydactyl,” Jon chuckled. “Your crew name is based on her paws, then. Not as in ‘positive.’”

“Both, but the ‘paws’ is from her,” Cyra giggled.

“And the ‘irregular’ is obvious,” Stern said sardonically.

“The name is terrible. Good, but terrible,” Nicole said, still petting Pawly.

Pawly chuffed, rolling over to expose her belly.

“Don’t,” Stern said firmly.

Nicole snatched her hand away. “I’m sorry.” It was an instinctive apology, like she’d done it all her life.

“No, I’m sorry,” Stern said. “I was talking to Pawly. Her belly is a trap. There are very few that she doesn’t hurt when they try to pet her there. I didn’t want you to get hurt because of her.”

Nicole exhaled, then looked up at him. “Oh... thank you.”

Stern blinked slowly. Nicole wore a mask that covered her face entirely, leaving just her mouth and eyes visible. Her eyes were what caught his attention. They were a blue-gray so pale that they could be colorless. He knew those eyes— he’d seen them every time he looked in the mirror, or into Pawly’s.

Nicole met his eyes, then jerked her head down.

“It’s okay,” Stern said softly. “As you can guess, none of us have problems with irregulars.”

Jon stiffened. When he saw Stern’s eyes, he exhaled. “Oh... I didn’t know they were a common feature.”

“What?” Cammie asked.

Before Stern could reply, the old woman came back to the table with a large tray. She paused, eyeing Pawly. “What’s that cat doing on the table?”

“Pawly,” Stern said, reaching out and dragging her onto his lap. “She’s my summons. There won’t be a mess.”

“Be that as it may, she doesn’t belong on the table.”

“Yes, ma’am. Sorry,” Stern apologized.

“Good. Your food.” The old woman quickly served them, then looked at the couple. “Did you need another drink?”

“We’re fine. Thank you,” Jon said politely.

As the woman left, Stern looked back at Nicole. “It’s okay.”

Nicole stared at the table; hope and fear warred inside of her until Pawly meowed. She glanced at Pawly, who was staring at her, before she smiled. With a deep breath, she pulled her hood back, showing her masked face. Blonde hair went to her shoulders, and her partially-tipped ears meant that she had half-elven heritage. “A little.”

Cyra saw Nicole’s eyes, then nodded. “You’re like Stern?”

Nicole flinched a little, but nodded. “Yes. I was shocked he’s so open with it.”

Jon was tense. His hand rested on Nicole’s, which had stayed on the table. “She’s had a hard life,” he said tightly.

“I know how that works,” Stern said gently.

“Maybe...” Jon conceded.

Trish took a bite of her breakfast, watching the others for a moment before asking, “You’re interested in joining our crew?”

“I thought that maybe it would work,” Nicole said. “Our last two crews… removed us.”

“When they found out you were an irregular?” Cyra asked.

Nicole nodded meekly. “Yes.”

“Those bastards!” Jon said angrily. “After all she did for them time and again... then her mask slips, and…” He cut off with a rough exhale.

“Which of you is the caster?” Trish asked after another bite.

“Me,” Nicole said. “My perks have always been… odd.”

“I know how that is,” Stern said. He looked down at Pawly to find her eating his ham. “Hey!”

Pawly just purred as she chewed.

Cyra giggled. “She’s just who she is.”

Stern picked Pawly up and placed her on the floor, but Pawly grabbed his ham slice as he did. Looking back at his plate, Stern found only his eggs and potatoes left. “Brat cat,” he sighed. He glanced at Nicole. “Pawly is one of my perks from birth. She’s a summons.”

“Oh. Yes, a summoner from birth is very odd,” Nicole nodded. “Jon, we should tell them while they eat.”

Jon looked over the group before he exhaled slowly. “Yes, dear. I’m not as much help as my wife. I’m mostly a bladesmith, but I have a few talents for being a Walker. I have perks that let me find the creases in armor, so I can get more out of any bladed weapon I use. I have another that will let me peel some armor from a foe. I haven’t seen it in use yet, but these coming dungeons are likely to have intelligent monsters that’ll have armor. The majority of my perks are for making weapons.”

Trish nodded, then looked at Nicole.

Nicole took a slow deep breath before she said, “All of mine are caster related. From birth, besides the sharp hearing from my mother.” She touched her ear, but she felt deep grief when she did.

Stern rocked in place, having to grab the love from Cyra and Trish to steady himself.

“Outside of that, I have Firebolt, Improved Firebolt, and Greater Firebolt from the first three dungeons.”

Stern whistled softly between bites. “So you can cast it every minute?”

“Yes.”

“Which is why everyone wanted her, until they found out,” Jon said darkly.

“From the second three dungeons, I got Iceball, Improved Iceball, and Greater Iceball,” Nicole went on.

“You have double magics of that quality?” Trish whispered. “Goddess, were your old crews idiotic?”

“No. It’s one of my other perks from birth that’s the problem,” Nicole said gently. “I wear a mask to mitigate it. Ghastly Visage... it causes those who see my face to fear me.”

Stern thought of a perk he could’ve taken that would have made people fear him. “Oh, that isn’t good.”

“It isn’t,” Nicole nodded sadly.

“What about your other perks from birth?” Cammie asked gently.

“I can see illusions for what they are,” Nicole said, “but that’s never been useful.”

“Past the precious metal dungeons, it’d be huge,” Stern said. “A lot of magic-oriented humanoids disguise their traps with magic.

“Oh? I had no idea,” Nicole said. “It always felt like a wasted perk to me. My last one lets me imbue a trap with one of my spells, but only once a day.”

Cammie jerked forward. “You can? We can make some amazing traps together!”

“Most trap finders hated her for it. Said it diminished them,” Jon frowned.

“Idiots,” Cammie scoffed. “If we take her fire spell and rig it into a trap with some oil, it’d make it even better. Please, can we let them join?” She stared at Stern intently.

Stern chuckled around a mouthful of food, holding up a hand while he chewed.

“I’m for it,” Cyra said.

Trish looked at Jon. “Are you good with being beside me on the front line?”

“I use a shield and sword,” Jon said. “I’m not a bulwark, but I can help keep the front strong or be a stopgap at the rear. I’d like to know your perks before we fully agree, though.”

“I’ll start,” Trish said, having finished her breakfast before the others.

Stern nodded; he wanted to go last, anyway.

Chapter Four

Stern gave Jon and Nicole a smile. “That covers my perks.”

Both stared with wide eyes at Pawly floating just above the table as electricity coursed down her fur.

“No, it doesn’t,” Cyra said softly. “Zasha?”

“Right,” Stern said. “I’m not used to Zasha yet, even though we’ve had him out a few times during the trip. Sorry, there’s another. Pawly?”

Pawly waved a paw at him while rolling over in midair.

“Go home,” Stern said.

As Pawly faded away, both Jon and Nicole jerked back when just Pawly’s teeth and eyes were left hanging in the air.

“Goddess... that was... disturbing,” Jon breathed out.

“Just her way of going to wherever she goes,” Stern said. “Now, let’s introduce you to Zasha.” His fingers flexed and Zasha appeared between Jon and Nicole’s chairs. “Zasha, these are Jon and Nicole. They’re potential crew members.”

Zasha’s tail wagged, and he looked up at them with a doggy grin. Nicole let out a happy sound, then began to pet him. Tail wagging faster, Zasha pushed his head into her hand.

“Who’s a good boy?” Nicole asked as she giggled.

“Ah. Two domestic pets are your summons?” Jon asked slowly.

“Yeah, but Zasha has a couple of differences. He doesn’t fly like Pawly. He gets stone armor. There are no tentacles for him, but he can cause an earth tremor that can destabilize footing. Instead of an electrical current, he can spit a spike of earth. Both of them do get larger, though.”

“A bulwark?” Jon asked in surprise.

“That’s what we think, but we normally use Pawly. She’s my oldest friend,” Stern said. “I’m sure we’ll use Zasha sometimes, but those times just haven’t come up much yet.”

Zasha barked softly, leaning into Nicole’s chair.

“I still feel bad about it,” Stern said, clearly looking at Zasha.

Zasha let out another bark.

“Okay. I’m just hoping to get you both out at the same time.”

Zasha pranced back, suddenly turning in a circle and snapping at his own tail, but he was clearly happy.

“Yeah. Me, too, boy,” Stern grinned.

“Umm... what?” Jon asked at a loss.

Stern stopped— he hadn’t told them about the one perk he hated telling people about. “To be fair... there is one more perk I’ve had from birth,” he said slowly. “I’m an empath. I have no control over it. I feel everything all the time.”

Jon and Nicole jerked again. He felt fear from both, then deep pity from Nicole and rising anger from Jon.

“That right there is why I dislike telling people,” Stern sighed. “Fear and anger, though the pity hurts, too.”

The husband and wife leaned back. Someone knowing their emotions was jarring in the extreme, but it did stop both of them from continuing the way they had been feeling.

“That must’ve been as bad as my face...” Nicole whispered, touching her mask.

“It wasn’t easy,” Stern admitted. “You were able to cover your face, though. I can’t cover what others feel. I had a family who loved me, at least.”

Nicole’s deep ache of loneliness hit Stern hard. He grunted and fell sideways, where Trish caught him. Seeing Stern’s reaction, Nicole tried to pull back from the emotion that had spiked at his words.

“Sorry!” Nicole said on reflex.

“What? What happened?” Jon asked Nicole with worry.

“The old loneliness hit me...” Nicole whispered.

“And then me,” Stern said as he steadied himself. “I say we call it a wash. We both had a lot of grief.”

Nicole nodded meekly. “Yes... but it looks like we both found love.”

“Unlikely as it was,” Stern agreed. The depth of love Nicole had for her husband washed over him. “I’d love to hear that story. We’ll have a lot of time for that if we become a crew.”

“I’d like to hear your story, too,” Nicole smiled.

“Well, your crew is well-rounded, and has some major bonuses with the healing,” Jon said. “What about crew rules?”

“We have Stern collect all the rewards. He splits them up, with an equal share going to crew needs,” Trish said. “Room, board, equipment, and the like. We also aim to pull at least two shards per run, normally for the longest fractured we can manage for two shards. We’ve joined the Rescue Squad here, and both Cammie and Cyra will be heading over to join after breakfast. Stern and I have gear to replace; my shield and helm, along with at least one of his daggers.”

“Do we need to join Rescue Squad?” Jon asked.

“Need to? No,” Stern jumped in. “But be aware that we might be called to run a dungeon a second time or dedicate more of our points to pull out additional shards. The plus side is the payouts from them are normally generous. Also, they flag the best crews as priority retrieval if we fracture in a run.”

“To be honest, we’re not sure how long we’ll be Walkers,” Nicole whispered. “We’re hoping to get some good perks for Jon to be a sought-after weaponsmith. We’d considered quitting already, but I want to clear nickel, if possible. We’ve noticed that our perks… have been rarer than others. Our crews didn’t keep us long enough to notice, but we have.”

“Oh,” Cammie said, looking at Stern.

“That might help corroborate a theory we had,” Trish nodded.

“Hmm... it might,” Stern agreed. “We’ve had a lot of oddities to pick from in our runs, too.”

Nicole sat forward. “Truly?”

“Yes,” Stern said slowly, his mind spinning. “Maybe… if we can prove it…?”

“Irregulars might be wanted,” Nicole nodded.

“Become seen as better, valued,” Cyra smiled.

“Jon, please?” Nicole asked, looking at her husband.

Jon exhaled slowly. He looked over the four others at the table, then at Zasha, who’d moved back to sit beside Nicole. “Will you have us?” Jon asked Stern.

“Let’s call the run a tryout,” Stern said. “If we all agree after that— you and us— then we’ll take you on as full members.”

“Yes,” Nicole smiled broadly. “Do you think our irregular-ness might magnify the chance of the rarity?”

Stern looked past her, staring off into the distance, as he considered that. “You mean it might stack to skew the odds of probability further?”

“Yes?” Nicole asked with a touch of uncertainty, as he’d used a word she didn’t really know.

“It might. Maybe additive or multiplicative...” Stern said softly. “If that’s true… what will we see?”

“We’ll find out tomorrow,” Trish grinned. “Welcome aboard, Jon, Nicole. Do you need any gear?”

“We’re good for now,” Jon said. “I’d feel bad about accepting more until we’re full members.”

“As long as you’re certain you’re fine,” Trish said.

“Our gear is good,” Nicole whispered. “Jon’s family made sure he had help…” She trailed off, and sadness engulfed her.

Stern grunted, as Nicole felt the emotion keenly.

Jon took Nicole’s hand. “I have my family beside me now. The only family I need.”

Cyra took Stern’s hand, and her worry and love for him helped cut Nicole’s emotions. Nicole pulled back on her sadness when she saw Stern sway.

“Sorry...” Nicole whispered.

“No. I won’t accept you apologizing for his family,” Stern exhaled a shaky breath. “I believe I understand. I know the love you two have for each other. Trust me when I say it’s rare to feel love that deep.” He looked at Cyra and Trish. “I know how deep it can be.”

Cammie sat there with a smile held on her lips, but she felt a hard spike of emotions before she could stop them. When Stern looked toward her, Cammie’s breath caught. He gave her a sad smile, and she felt ashamed of the jealousy that had hit her.

“Love can grow, and even be added,” Stern said as he looked away from Cammie. “Unexpectedly, but with care and time, it can bloom.”

Pure hope blossomed from Cammie as she got to her feet. “Cyra, we should go.”

“Oh, right. Meet back here after shopping?” Cyra asked Trish.

“Yeah. We have a crew suite,” Trish told Jon and Nicole. “If you’d like to move over with us, it’s fine.”

“We’ll stay where we are until after the run,” Jon said. “Just in case.”

“I’m sure we’ll be fine,” Nicole said, “but he’s right.”

“We’ll see you here tomorrow morning for breakfast, before the run,” Trish said. “It was great meeting you.”

“I had high hopes when we heard you yesterday,” Nicole said. “We’ll be here.”

“We will, but we should double-check our gear now that we’ve found a crew,” Jon said.

Nicole petted Zasha again. “I’ll see you later, okay?”

Zasha chuffed, licking her hand.

“Go home,” Stern said gently.

Zasha grinned as he seemed to melt into the floor.

“Not as bad, but still odd,” Jon said as he got to his feet.

“See you tomorrow,” Stern said.

With another round of goodbyes, the six of them went separate ways, each with their own tasks to complete.

~*~*~

Stern summoned Pawly back, giving her flight as they walked through the city. “What did you think, Trish?”

“If what they said was true, Nicole will be a major asset. Jon was maybe a bit overprotective, but if I understood the subtext, it’s with valid reason. You tell me what you think, though, as that has more feeling behind it.”

Stern gave her a raised eyebrow. “Terrible, Trish. Just terrible.”

“It was funny and you know it,” Trish laughed.

“There’s a lot of pain and sadness in her past... more than mine. I’m pretty sure her family got rid of her as soon as they could. Jon’s family disowned him when they found out about her. It’s all conjecture, but from what I felt, it would fit. Pretty sure he comes from a family of smiths, like you did from leatherworkers. It would explain the perks he didn’t talk about. I also think he’s older than her, maybe as much difference between them as you and I. Full age, not just reborn age.”

Trish frowned, but then nodded slowly. “He does have lines at the edges of his eyes. Doesn’t matter to me.”

“Me, neither, but want to bet others have made it an issue before?”

“Oh... So no real friends, no family…? Yeah, I can see it.”

“And her perk that she has to stay masked for... I hope they fit in. Just what she has now, being able to cast as she does, is amazing. I know casters in the higher tiers that would love to be able to cast a single spell that much,” Stern said. “She lacks area damage, but that could always come up for her in the future.”

“If they join us, we can see if he’ll check our blades,” Trish said, “like I do for our armor.”

“It was a thought I had, too,” Stern smiled.

Pawly meowed above them, gliding down to float between them at waist height.

They chuckled and petted her, and Stern was able to ignore all the looks. The majority were too in shock over the flying cat to really feel afraid of him.

Trish smiled— she’d seen the looks, and was glad that Stern could walk normally, not covered and hunched the way he normally did when feeling people’s gazes. She gave Pawly a chin scratch, wondering if she knew exactly how much she was helping Stern with her flying antics.

Pawly rolled onto her back as she continued floating, offering her belly to them. Both of them rubbed the offering, happy to do so and not get bitten.

Chapter Five

Stern exhaled slowly as he looked at the building he was standing in front of. His excuse to separate from Trish had been flimsy, but she’d just given him a smile and kiss. He had to go alone, though. This was a big step— he knew it was a risk, albeit less than he feared, he hoped. Pawly floated under the shop’s sign on her back, gently batting at it.

“If they don’t agree…” Trailing off, he took another deep breath.

Pawly meowed at him.

“Yeah... I tell myself it’ll be fine, too. Okay.”

Entering the shop, he walked up to the counter. Glass gleamed against the lamplight of the shop. Inside the case, precious metal and gems glittered enticingly. The woman behind the counter had a spike of fear before she exhaled roughly.

“Walker. I’m glad you’re wearing that badge.” She smiled, then startled again when she finally noticed Pawly floating in behind him. “A flying cat?”

“A perk,” Stern said, glad the woman’s fear was gone.

“I’d say so. I reached gold before I stopped, but I’ve never seen a house cat that can fly.”

“She’s a perk, and I took another that made her affinity wind. That’s why she flies.”

“A summons?” The woman leaned on the counter. “That’s different, but that fits with what you are. We had an irregular on a single run of ours, oh... sixteen years ago? That run ended up with all sorts of different options for perks. I picked one that let me instantly tell the worth of a gem, for instance.”

“Useful for a jeweler,” Stern said.

“It has been.”

“What happened with the irregular?”

“He stopped. He picked up the perk he wanted and that was it.”

“I hope he had a good life,” Stern said softly.

“He undoubtedly did. His choice gave him tanned skin.”

Stern blinked slowly at the idea that a perk could do something so small, yet so profound.

“Yes. Shocked all of us, too,” the woman laughed. “Now what can I do for you?”

“Oh, uh... rings.”

“We have a selection,” she said, motioning to the case. “If you give me something to work with, I can help narrow it down.”

Stern inhaled slowly. He glanced at Pawly then answered, “Wedding rings.”

“Ah. A couples’ set?”

“Uh, not like you think,” Stern said, now uncomfortable. “I need rings for multiple women.”

Now, it was the old woman’s turn for surprise. “Multiple women? You want to ask multiple women to marry you? Do they all know of your interest yet?” The last question was soft, as if she was afraid that he was going to set himself up for failure.

“Already in a relationship with them. Just want to ask for more,” Stern admitted awkwardly.

“Really? Well, that’s good news for you, and for them. Hmm... tell me about them, please.”

“Why?” Stern asked.

“Should I be looking for rings for flashy and flamboyant women, or something subtle, understated, yet classy?”

“Oh, right. Sorry. We’re all Walkers, so subtle is best.”

“Are… they part of the crew?”

“Yes. The three of us started it together.”

The old woman smiled softly, looking distant. “Oh, those were the days,” she sighed.

“Ma’am?”

Shaking her head, she smiled at him. “Wezla Oreman, owner of Polished Cut,” she introduced herself. “My husband and I started that way. May the Goddess grant him peace.”

“My condolences, ma’am.”

“It’s been a decade, young man,” she sighed. “The pain is mostly gone, but at times, I still turn to talk to him only to remember…”

“I hope to never find out or, if I have to, many decades from now,” Stern said.

“Yes. So did I,” Wezla wiped her eyes. “The time between cities can be more dangerous than the dungeons. In a dungeon, we fracture, but can be retrieved… outside of them… we can’t.”

Stern swallowed at the pain in her heart— it was an old pain, deep and wide, but not all-consuming. “I’m sorry, ma’am.”

She looked up at him with a sad smile. “It’s okay. Two rings for your lovers, and a band for you?”

Stern hesitated before he shook his head. “Can you make it three?”

Wezla gave him an odd look. “I can, but you said earlier ‘the three of you.’ Tell me I’m not losing my sanity.”

“It was me, Cyra, and Trish, ma’am. But, uh... another friend has been making us believe she wants to join us. I just want to be prepared.”

Wezla stared into his colorless eyes before she smiled. “I sense no guile in you, son. Very well. All identical?”

“Please.”

“And a band for you, as well,” Wezla said as she looked at the counter. After a moment, she pulled a ring out, holding it up to him. “Like this?”

She held up a golden band. It had a small ruby heart inset in the metal so it wouldn’t catch on anything. It gleamed in her fingers, and Stern smiled as he imagined it on the fingers of those he loved.

“Yes, ma’am.”

“Wezla. Call me by my name, please. I feel old enough already.”

“Sorry. My mothers raised me to be respectful.”

“Mothers?” Wezla laughed lightly. “So it runs in the family, does it?”

Stern grimaced. “I’m sure he’ll have a field day when I see him again.”

“Just means he loves you,” Wezla laughed. “I have another two of them in the back. One moment.”

Before she left, she shut the doors on the display, locked them with a key from her pocket, then stepped into the back. Stern nodded at the precaution. The glass was probably thicker than it looked, or made of a dungeon material that would be much harder than normal glass.

A couple of minutes later, Wezla came out of the back with four small boxes. “Here we go: three identical rings.” She motioned to red velvet boxes. “And yours.” She touched the blue velvet box.

“Thank you, Wezla,” Stern said, pulling out gold to pay her.

Wezla whistled softly at the coin. “I’m not going to ask, son, but that’s more than they’re worth.”

“Add a little onto the price as my deepest thanks for my welcome in your shop,” Stern said. “Very few accept me so readily.”

Welza quickly made change for him. “I hate to say this, but I will: if they say no, bring the rings back. I’ll buy them back from you. If they say yes, then I wish you all the bright blessings of the Goddess.”

Stern quickly put the boxes away, then his change. “Thank you. I’m not sure I’ll be up for anything if they refuse. I pray that you’re right and that the Goddess will bless us.”

Pawly landed on the counter, meowing at Wezla.

“Is she safe to pet?” Wezla asked, not reaching for the cat.

“Just don’t fall for the trap of her belly,” Stern said.

“Well, she is a cat,” Wezla snorted, then gently pet Pawly’s head. “Such a pretty one, aren’t you?”

Pawly meowed before flopping onto the counter.

“If it’s not too much to ask, how long have you had her?”

“All my life,” Stern said. “She was one of my birth perks.”

“Very irregular,” Wezla said softly. “I always wondered what might’ve been if he’d stayed with us. I wish you all the best. Safe runs, and stay safe outside of the dungeons, too.”

“Yes, m… Wezla.”

“And you stay safe, too. I know summons can’t die, not really, but I hate to think of you helpless.”

Stern chuckled. “She’s far from helpless.”

Wezla glanced up at Stern, then back to Pawly. “That’s fine, then. You talk of her as a friend, so I doubt you throw her at monsters.”

“She throws herself,” Stern chuckled. “She’s a mighty hunter. Kills most of our mobs, in fact.”

“What?” Wezla asked, her hand stilling as she stared at Stern.

“Do you mind if I show you?”

Lips pursed, Wezla looked from him toward Pawly, then back. “Will it hurt her, or damage my shop?”

“No, and I don’t believe so. Uh... is that glass, or better?” Stern was quick to ask.

“Better.”

“Then it should be fine,” Stern said as he flexed his fingers.

Wezla’s gasp, wide eyes, and open mouth spoke volumes as she stared at the now tiger-sized Pawly.

“That’s just one of the perks I’ve gotten for her.”

“Goddess. She’s certainly no helpless fluffball, now is she?”

“Never has been,” Stern said. His fingers flexed again and Pawly went back to being house cat-sized, if a large one.

“What’s the name of your crew, son? I want to listen for more of your work later.”

“‘Pawsitively Irregular,’” Stern said.

Wezla stared at him, then started to laugh. “Goddess, that’s horrible.”

Pawly chuffed, waving a paw and catching Wezla’s attention. After a second, she laughed harder.

“Yeah,” Stern sighed.

Gasping as she caught her breath, Wezla spoke slowly, “That’s… terrible… and wonderful. The emblem makes sense now.”

Pawly chuffed.

“Thank you for the rings,” Stern said with a strained smile.

Having managed to master herself again, Wezla beamed at him. “Glad to help. I will pray to the Goddess that they accept, son.”

“Stern. I go by Stern,” he said. “Pawly, it’s time to go.”

Pawly floated off the counter, still laying sideways.

“She’s unique, but I think she might take after her owner,” Wezla smiled. “Good luck.”

Stern nodded, then left the shop behind. His lovers and friend were waiting for him. As he headed for the inn, he wondered about why he’d asked for three rings. Cammie hadn’t even asked to be in the relationship with them yet.

Maybe she’s changed her mind? Stern mused. No... she wouldn’t have felt jealous this morning if she had. She’s probably afraid of it breaking friendships. We’ll see what she has to say after the dungeon run. I’m going to ask them then, and that might prompt her to choose her own path.

Pawly floated beside him, turning over in the air as she did. Her eyes would go from him toward the various gasps of surprise. She preened at the attention, even as she kept an eye on the person she cared for the most.

~*~*~

Stern was almost to the inn when someone called out, “Stern!”

Turning around, he found Sarah Kalma and her crew. “Sharp Ears,” Stern smiled. “Just got in?” he asked, eyeing their equipment.

“It was a rough road,” Sarah replied. “Looks like you’ve settled in, already.”

“Couple days ago. We’re going in tomorrow. What happened?”

“Mistweaver wild boss,” Sarah sighed. “Thing was a nightmare. We killed it, though.”

“How many dark willow saplings did you find?” Stern asked.

“None. You?”

“A few. Looks like we both had our problems. I think yours was worse.”

“Wasn’t fun. We’ll be taking tomorrow off to check our gear, and maybe the day after, too. Safe runs.”

“Safe runs. I’m glad you made it here safely.”

“So are we. Is the inn good?” she asked, looking at where he’d been heading.

“Good staff, good food, and wonderful beds.”

Another of the crew snorted.

Sarah laughed. “You would know that. Alright, crew, let’s go rest up.”

A cheer came from them as she led them to the inn. Stern let them walk in front of him, glad to see that his friends had made it to the city.

Chapter Six

Stern got his gear together, getting ready for breakfast and the dungeon. It was after the dungeon that had him nervous. He was debating when afterward would be the best time. In the shop? No, that would be terrible. After dinner? That seems like the best... Stern thought as he picked up his bag.

“You ready, lover?” Trish asked, poking her head into the room.

“Yeah, sorry,” Stern said. “I’ll have my head on straight when we go in.”

Trish gave him a soft smile. She walked into the room, her scalemail making soft noise as she crossed to him. “It’s obvious something’s on your mind. We’re here when you’re ready to tell us, okay?”

Stern snorted softly, stepping forward to hug her. “Thanks. After the dungeon will be fine.”

Trish kissed his ear. “Okay. We have new people with us, so you need to be on point.”

“Got it,” Stern murmured.

“Is everything okay?” Cammie asked when the pair came out of the room.

“Yeah, stuff on my mind. I’m good now,” Stern said. “Looking forward to making traps with spells?”

“Yes! I made sure I picked up a few things yesterday to make it easier,” Cammie grinned.

“She had a lot of fun,” Cyra laughed. “I didn’t understand why she wanted half of the things she did, but I know she can make amazing things happen with nearly nothing.”

“Thanks,” Cammie said softly. “I know I helped with the dark willow saplings, but most of the time I feel… less useful.”

“Well, from here on forward is when trap finders really start to shine,” Stern said. “Humanoid monsters get more likely, and they get smarter as we advance.”

“I hope to just do more for all of us,” Cammie smiled at him.

“We know you will,” Trish said. “Okay, let’s go see Jon and Nicole.”

They trooped downstairs to find the married couple already at a table. Trish flagged down the young woman on duty, asking for tea and breakfasts for the table.

“Good morning,” Nicole said in her soft tone.

“Good morning!” Cammie beamed. “I was hoping to get a trap set up before we go in— a fire trap with your spell and my additives. I plan for a wide-angle attack to cover a few mobs.”

“Mobs?” Jon asked.

“Dungeon monsters,” Stern said. “A slang term picked up from my family.”

“Ah. Shorter than saying monster, so that works,” Jon nodded.

Stern took stock of their two allies. Jon was wearing a simple metal skullcap, scalemail on his chest, and hardened leather everywhere else; the leathers had holes in the back for his wings to feel comfortable. Nicole was hidden by her cloak again, so he wasn’t sure about her.

“Are you armored, Nicole?” Stern asked.

“Leathers,” Nicole whispered. “Why the bags?”

“Cyra and I are rarely in melee,” Stern said. “We carry things we might need, along with Cammie’s trap stuff. In the later dungeons, you can spend days inside. Having some gear with you is just smart, so we’re preparing for that now.”

“How far are you planning on going?” Jon asked.

Stern started to say “all the way,” but he hesitated. His drive to seek out the Goddess to question her about irregulars was… diminishing. It didn’t seem as imperative to him with Cyra and Trish beside him. “As far as we can,” Stern said after a second of indecision. “Maybe all the way to the Goddess’ final test.”

Jon whistled softly. “I doubt we’ll be with you that long.”

“Every Walker needs to decide for themselves when to stop,” Trish said. “Sometimes, it’s after a perk. Other times, it’s with the loss of a crew member, or rebirth. We all choose when it’s right for us.”

“Yes, we do,” Nicole said softly. “If I can find a way to stop my fear and we get Jon a few more valuable smithing perks, we’ll likely stop. I want to have children, but I want to be able to not wear a mask when I do.”

“Children would be a blessing...” Cyra murmured, a soft smile on her lips.

“Hard to have children and be a dedicated Walker,” Trish added. “It can be done, but it’s… difficult.”

“It is,” Stern agreed. “For the children, too. Waiting to see their parents, hoping to see them again...”

“Your parents?” Jon asked.

“Yeah,” Stern said, shaking his head. “A story for later.”

The server brought out their food and drink, stopping further conversation.

~*~*~

With breakfast finished and their gear strapped on, the six of them— seven with Pawly— headed out of the inn. Pawly glided above them once they were outside. They went past the academy and dojo buildings, which were right next to the inn, following the clearly marked path leading the way to the dungeon.

Once they made it to the dungeon square, they had to slow down— it was busier than other cities. Permanent booths lined the walkway, with merchants calling out to entice the Walkers waiting for their turn to enter the dungeon.

“A moment?” Jon asked. “I want to get another tin of salve.”

“We’ll be in line,” Trish said.

“He always worries that we won’t have enough,” Nicole murmured.

“There’s no such thing as too much salve,” Cyra said. “We all use it. I keep my spells back for the middle of combat, when it can make the difference of life or death.”

“Which is smart,” Nicole nodded.

“Oh, did the ghost find a group?” a sneering voice asked. “What happened? Did they decline the deadweight of your husband?”

Nicole flinched, fear and anger burning in her heart.

Trish pushed forward so she was a foot away from the elven man. “I’m sorry, dickless. Did you have something to say to her friends?”

The guy took a step back out of reflex because Trish was armored, armed, and unfriendly. “Look, you horned freak, I was talking to the near-blighted with you, not you.”

“Near-blighted?” Stern asked tightly. The hatred in the man was pulsing higher. “Is that like you being semi-intelligent? Nicole is our crewmate and friend, so just slink back to the hole you crawled out of.”

The elf glanced at Stern, then did a double-take and laughed. People began to look their way at the confrontation. “Of course, you freaks stick together. Normal people know better than to take you in with them.”

“I think you give elves a bad name,” Trish sneered. “Both of them are sincere, nice when not being accosted, and useful. You know; everything you aren’t.”

“Hey, now!” another man said, moving forward to stand shoulder to shoulder with the elf. “Brandon is a damned sight more useful than a freak. I mean, what use is a twig like that? What does he do? Carry your purse?”

Pawly hissed, coming down from where she’d been floating. Her fluff was puffed up as she glared at the two men.

“What the fuck?” Those words came from a few throats, as Pawly suddenly had everyone’s attention.

“Pawly, don’t. They aren’t worth it,” Stern said as he flexed his fingers through the right patterns.

Pawly growled, suddenly tiger-sized and tentacled with electricity coursing down her sides. That had anyone nearby backing away from her. The two men who’d started the altercation stared in wide-eyed horror.

“What happened?” Jon asked, pushing through the crowd. When he saw the pair, he snorted. “Brandon and Billy... should’ve known it was you two. Still can’t find a group, can you?”

Both men glanced at him, then back up at Pawly before slowly backing away. “I hope you fracture,” Brandon said tightly. “All of you deserve it.”

Billy slapped him. “No! No, we don’t,” he said quickly. “We’d never wish that on another Walker or crew.”

Billy had seen the sudden cold looks from the crowd. Wishing fracturing to another was a taboo among Walkers— Billy tried his best to gloss over the hasty words said by his friend.

“You won’t be getting a group today,” Trish said tightly. “Accosting other Walkers and wishing them ill? You’ll be lucky to find a group this month. We are Pawsitively Irregular, and while we do have an irregular or two in our crew, we pull shards every time we go in because fractured souls deserve to be brought out.”

That got more looks from the few who hadn’t been at the Walker’s hall when Stern had made his speech.

“We have shards to pull out today, too,” Stern said. “Pawly, leave them. We have souls to rescue.”

Pawly snorted at the two men, then floated to be above Stern.

“For all of you wondering, Pawly is my summons. She’s an integral part of our crew and is one of the reasons we have our name.”

Pawly raised a single large, polydactyl paw.

A few laughs came from the group as the name started to make sense before a guard came pushing through the crowd. “Excuse me, Walkers. We’d like you to go in now to help stop this issue.”

Stern nodded. “Sorry, sir. We’ll go.” He looked at the Walkers who’d been lined up. “We’re sorry for the commotion. We can’t stand by when one of ours is being verbally attacked. Safe runs to all of you… even Brandon and Billy, if they find anyone to go with them.”

The crowd watched as the six walked past, but most watched Pawly as she drifted lazily by just above their heads. When they reached the entrance, Stern wasn’t surprised to see a downward sloping tunnel. The captain on duty waved them past with a grumpy expression.

“Sorry, sir,” Stern said in passing.

“Yeah, yeah. Move on,” the captain grumbled.

The sloping tunnel led to a room where a swirling white mist waited for them. Trish walked right into it, wanting to get past what had happened. The others followed her, ready to start their run.

Chapter Seven

Thick trees grew overhead, and massive bushes twenty-feet tall choked the points between them. The sun was dim, barely making it through the thick canopy. A light mist covered the ground up to ankle height.

“Outdoor path dungeon,” Stern said. “Thick forest and mist. Any animal is possible, but we should be aware that the mist could mean it’s a water-affinity dungeon.”

“That’ll make my spells less useful,” Nicole said.

“Potentially,” Jon said quickly.

“Correct,” Stern agreed with Jon. “It’s conjecture right now. It’s always smart to take the opportunity to understand what you might end up facing. The mist could be here just to stop fires from immediately catching. With you and Cammie, any fires we set won’t be easily stopped.”

“I’m going to get another trap or two rigged,” Cammie said. “I left two slots open for this reason. Want to make a fire trap with me, Nicole?”

“Really?” Nicole asked hopefully. “Please? I’ve had this perk all my life, but never used it.”

“We’ll use it as often as we can,” Stern said. “Synergizing with your crew is the best thing to do. With Cammie’s ability to store traps, it means we can have a couple of your imbued traps on hand. Going forward, anyway.”

“Do you think the dungeon would take it badly if I flew up a little?” Jon asked.

“If you went up enough to see over the hedges, yes,” Stern said quickly. “Trust me; in a path dungeon, peeking ahead is… dangerous. A family friend found out the hard way.”

“Hmm... Okay. We haven’t had an outdoor path dungeon before. We’ve been inside or in open dungeons.”

“Treat it like an enclosed dungeon. Just be aware that, if you see limbs crossing above us within normal height, a mob might be lurking on it.”

“Got it. You seem to know a lot about dungeons,” Jon said.

“My family made it our lives to be Walkers,” Stern said. “I learned a lot growing up with parents who were focused on being the best runners they could be.”

“You moved a lot, then?”

“All the damned time,” Stern sighed.

“Pawly, go check ahead for us, please,” Trish said. “Stay under the height of the bushes. We’ll be preparing for a while.”

Pawly chuffed as she drifted down the path, a foot lower than the height of the bushes. The only sound was the crackle of the electricity that coated her fur.

“We use her as scout and damage,” Stern told Jon. “If I dismiss her, she’ll come back healed. But she’s my best friend, so we don’t just throw her at mobs.”

Jon nodded stiffly. “Bet you get asked that a lot.”

“No, but I wanted to cut it off before it became a point of contention,” Stern said. He got his crossbow ready, loading a magazine into it.

“That’s an odd crossbow,” Jon said, staring at it.

“Pneumatic,” Stern chuckled. “Since we have a few minutes while they make their traps, I’ll explain it.”

Trish and Cyra exchange an amused look, both glad that Stern and Jon seemed to be doing okay.

~*~*~

“That’s going to change how Walkers at higher tiers view crossbows,” Jon said.

“It will. I’d say silver-tier and higher is when they’ll start to show up.”

“With the costs, that makes sense.”

“It’s nice to see him being able to chat with others,” Nicole said fondly. “He always stays near me, so I feel bad sometimes.”

Jon’s head jerked to look Nicole’s way. “That’s not true.”

“He’d just rather be around you than anyone else,” Stern said. “Besides, I know someone very much like Jon. His wife is the one person who matters to him above all others, no matter what’s going on.”

“You do?” Nicole asked.

“Yeah. You might meet them one day if we stay together as a crew. He’s a family friend.”

Both Trish and Cyra stiffened at that, figuring out who he was speaking about. Cammie glanced at them, a spike of loneliness touching her.

“We’re good to go now,” Trish said.

Pawly chuffed from where she floated just above the ground. When they looked her way, she patted the ground three times, then her tentacles stretched wide.

“Three ahead, and it’s a big area,” Stern said. “Animals?”

Pawly chuffed.

“Okay, not humanoid, at least. This’ll be a little easier. Might still be an elemental affinity.”

“Is the path winding? Or will we see them when they see us?” Trish asked.

Pawly’s tentacles went straight out from her shoulders.

“And the path is wide enough that I can’t block it alone.”

Jon hefted his sword and shield. “Two of us can effectively block it. There’ll be a little bit of space between us, but that just means they can fire past us.”

“Okay, but I might use my perks to switch you out if you get in trouble,” Trish said. “Cyra, in the back. Stern, stay behind me. Nicole will be behind Jon, and Cammie between you. Aim to the outside, if possible. Cammie, you can fire between us, but make sure you time it right.”

“I’ll be very careful,” Cammie said.

Trish looked at Jon and, seeing him ready, they walked down the path. There was a single switchback behind them— it was just enough to isolate where they’d started from the way they were going.

When they cleared the switchback, Trish slowed down. In the clearing ahead of them was a trio of big cats. They were black-furred, letting them blend into the shadows where they lounged. If Trish hadn’t been actively looking for them, she would’ve missed spotting them.

Cyra saw them and focused on Life Sense. “Life Sense is running, but we’re too far back,” she whispered.

“I… oh… your perk,” Nicole whispered as she felt her allies around her, knowing instinctively where they were.

“They see us,” Stern said, raising the crossbow. “Get ready. Cats like to pounce, so be ready for them to leap at you. Pawly, the last one in their group is yours.”

Pawly chuffed as she watched the three big cats get up and stretch. As a group, the three cats began to slink toward them.

“Take rightmost,” Trish told Jon. “I have leftmost. Cammie, focus on Pawly’s once she stuns it.”

“Understood,” Cammie said as she raised her smaller crossbow.

“Fire now,” Stern said. “We need to control the fight.”

Two crossbows fired and, a second later, a small bolt of fire flashed after them. All three cats yowled in pain, then sprinted forward. Cammie began to reload, confident in her friends to keep them safe. Stern rapid-fired at the charging cat.

Pawly yowled back at them as she went a little higher, then darted forward, angled to divebomb the middle cat. Stern’s target stumbled as a bolt lodged in its shoulder, then was sent tumbling a second later. Nicole’s mob cried loudly and angled away, a patch of scorched fur and an icy sheen showing the damage she was doing to it. That was when Pawly dove, tentacles snapping down as the middle cat leapt at her. Tentacles struck and lightning discharged, letting Pawly avoid the mob. It sailed under her, its muscles unable to move.

“Charge!” Trish commanded before taking off at a sprint for Stern’s target. “Jon, angle in on Pawly’s! Range, kill the runner!”

Stern, Cammie, and Nicole all went after the mob that fled. Crossbow bolts and fire slammed into it in rapid succession, making it crash to the ground.

The cat Trish rushed got back to its feet right before she got to it. With a yowl, it lunged at her with only three working legs to assist it. Trish had braced herself when it hit her shield, angling it out so its one working front paw couldn’t get around to her. Not giving it any time, she brought her hammer down hard.

Jon reached the one Pawly had stunned as it tried to jerk to its feet. He never gave it the chance— his sword cleaved cleanly through the beast’s neck, dropping it in an instant. Pivoting on his swing, he rushed to help Trish with hers as the third cat was barraged by his wife and the rest of the team.

Trish kept it from being able to get any real attack on her and, when Jon got there, it died in short order. The pair spun back to go for the third, but found it unmoving.

“A good start,” Jon said.

“Really need to get another magazine for this thing,” Stern sighed. “Glad I picked up more ammunition, too.”

The six of them started to gather together when they jerked in surprise. From the edges of the clearing, more life made its way toward them. Cyra was the first to spot them. “Snakes!” she called, pointing.

Nicole’s Iceball shot out, slapping a snake in the snout— its head nearly popped from the impact.

“Lots of snakes,” Stern said. He dropped his crossbow and pulled out daggers. Changing magazines was going to take too long for what they needed right now.

Cammie pulled out a trap, used a sparktwig to light it, then tossed it toward the biggest grouping of snakes. At the same time the snakes got close to the trap, it went up in flames, spewing oil out in a fifteen-foot radius and catching a dozen snakes in flaming oil.

The others picked off targets from range while Trish and Jon got ready to intercept if they got too close. None of them did before the last snake died from an Iceball.

Breathing fast, the crew exhaled shakily, waiting for another trick. When nothing happened, they finally relaxed. Pawly came their way, chuffing. Her tentacles had wreaked havoc on the snakes below her while keeping her safe.

“Okay... big cats and snakes,” Stern said slowly. “No elements, at least.”

“We don’t have any area damage, besides Cammie’s traps,” Trish said. “Cammie, how many of those can you make?”

“With what I brought? Maybe a dozen.”

“Work on making another here before we move on. That would’ve been bad if you hadn’t caught a chunk of them like you did.”

“Haven’t seen a dual-monster dungeon before,” Jon said tightly.

“At these levels, it’s not as normal. It gets more so as you go up,” Stern said. “Cammie, excellent work.”

Cammie smiled, digging into the pack Cyra carried. “Thank you. I’m going to rework the trap I made with Nicole, too.”

“No,” Trish said. “You made it for a single mob, right?”

“Yeah?”

“Keep it. We might have a boss at the end, and it’ll be a big help there.”

“Okay,” Cammie said. “I’ll rework the glue traps, then. I can make them sticky fire.”

“That would work,” Stern grinned.

“I like this,” Nicole said softly. “We’re not just rushing in. We’re planning and recovering.”

“It’s nice,” Jon nodded. “Our other groups just wanted to push through as quickly as they could.”

Stern hissed, “That’s how people fracture! There’s no time limit on a dungeon. Rushing only hurts you... well… that’s not always true. In an intelligent mob dungeon, if you give them time, it means they can plan for you.”

“Oh...” Nicole said softly. “That could be bad.”

“Yeah, it could be. For animals, there’s no reason to rush.”

“We’ll just have to see if the big cats and snakes continue,” Trish said. “Jon, good work.”

“Thank you. Glad I didn’t have to be a bulwark.”

“We’ll keep taking them like we did, if possible,” Stern said.

“I’m glad Cyra’s here,” Nicole said, giving the rabbit lykian a smile. “We’d never have seen the snakes before they got to us without her.”

“They’re brown and green and blend in easily,” Stern said. “It’s the same reason our armor looks like this.”

“I was going to ask about that,” Jon said.

“We have a minute,” Stern said. “It’s called camouflage…”

Chapter Eight

The group was getting ready for the last room— they’d found the same monsters throughout the dungeon. The path had forked a dozen times, leading back to previous pathway branches or into dead-end rooms. The dead-ends had been the toughest, with each having five cats, then an increased amount of snakes after they’d been dispatched.

They’d sustained small wounds from the big cats, but with Cammie’s traps and their crossbows, they kept the snakes away every time. Cammie only had two more area fire traps left, which they’d use if snakes came after the boss, including the trap she’d made with Nicole at the start.

The light in the dungeon had faded more as the day wore on. Luckily, they all had better-than-human vision, so it hadn’t hindered them. Stern had gone forward with Pawly to see the last room, so now he had to plan out a fight.

“There are three distinct small groves in the room. I’m worried about them.”

“Because the snakes have always come from the trees,” Trish nodded. “We might get snakes mid-fight.”

“When we go in, I can deploy the traps into the trees,” Cammie suggested. “I can add to the spell trap to make it like the other two. That would cover all three places we suspect there to be snakes.”

“But if we’re wrong, it’ll leave us without them,” Jon countered.

“Going to have to fight away from them and keep an eye out,” Trish said. “Jon’s point is valid.”

“The terrain being what it is, I expect the extremely large cat to have a pounce ability,” Stern said. “They’ll possibly be able to pivot off a person or object. Dad’s told me about fights like that.”

“We want to fight away from them, as it is,” Cyra said.

“Which leaves us the other option: they’re there for us to use to dodge a boss’ ability,” Stern said.

“This is getting complicated,” Nicole sighed.

“Difficulty starts ramping up here. Terrain is there to be used, either for us or for the boss. Let’s stay away to start with, but we might need to rush to them.”

“Cammie, can you rig one more area trap?” Trish asked.

“Not like the others. Most of my good supplies are done. I can maybe get one half as good with what’s left,” Cammie said.

“Better than nothing. It’s a stopgap, just in case.”

“Can we get me within twenty feet of a stand of trees?” Cyra asked. “Life Sense would tell us if there are snakes.”

“You five can angle in while Pawly and I grab the boss,” Trish said. “Just go close enough to check. If not, then check the others. If there are snakes, drop a trap on the trees and move away. If we’re lucky, Pawly and I can hold the boss. Jon, I want you with them, just in case Stern is right and the boss leaps at the other group. No doubt you’ll get clawed for it, but Cyra still has most of her healing.”

“Hold off on ranged attacks until the boss looks focused on them,” Stern said. “If the trees are clear, be ready to duck out of its sight. Normally, there’s a warning if a monster is about to use a major ability, but we shouldn’t count on it.”

“Is everyone ready?” Trish asked.

When everyone nodded, they headed down the path toward the boss room. Stern felt the fear, worry, and excitement from those around him. All of them felt those emotions, but to vastly different degrees. Trish had more excitement than the others. Nicole was mostly fearful, while Cyra worried more than the others. Jon was a steady mix of the three, as was Cammie. Stern wasn’t certain what he was feeling personally with the maelstrom of emotions around him. He carried his loaded crossbow, ready to fire, even knowing it was unlikely he’d need to use it right away.

The path gently curved and narrowed, forcing them down to single file and making it so the boss room wasn’t visible for any straight stretch. Pawly hesitated, and the line came to a stop.

A large surge of emotions came before Pawly darted forward. The sound of Trish’s scale was audible a second later as she ran after Pawly. The others were quick to follow, ready to break off toward the right as soon as Trish had a lead on them.

A deep yowl of anger came from the dungeon boss. It was deeper than Pawly’s yowl, and Stern instinctively thought of it as male. Being in the back, Stern was the last to see the boss rushing Trish and Pawly. The others slowed down, wanting to make sure Trish had its attention before trying to get to the closest stand of trees.

A dozen yards short of Trish, the boss’ legs bunched. Then, it was airborne, its claws extended to rend. Pawly darted down at it, her tentacles raking across it. There was the snap of electricity, but the monster just yowled louder, clearly not stunned. Trish managed to dodge to the side, using her shield to catch the closest paw and shove the cat away.

With that, the others ran for the trees, and Cyra focused on Life Sense. Twenty feet away, they came to an abrupt halt— the trees held a swarm of life. Cammie was glad she already had one of the smaller traps in hand. She yanked out a sparktwig, lit the trap, then threw it at the trees.

“Back!” Stern shouted, seeing the trap get thrown.

The five of them backed away. It was the right call as, a few seconds later, a burst of flame flashed to life.

“Three,” Cyra said when the majority of the snakes had died.

The others felt when the three remaining snakes came rushing out of the slowly burning trees. Stern and Cyra fired once, and Nicole got the third with an Iceball. The fire sputtered out as the damp wood refused to stay lit. The boss let out a deep yowl, staggering Pawly and Trish backward.

Stern looked over just in time to see the massive cat flash deep red, looking at Cammie. “Jon, shield!” Stern yelled as he dove at Cammie, who was reaching into her bag for another trap.

Jon spun at Stern’s call, his shield coming up in time to see the cat spring. It flew unnaturally through the air, its claws extended. Stern slammed into Cammie, knocking them both down and under where it would likely attack. Jon took the single step he could, his shield raised high, then was thrown backward as the boss hit him with all four paws. There was the sound of splintering wood a heartbeat before the cat leapt back the other way.

Trish spun, her stun wearing off just in time for her to see the cat aimed at her. She leapt away, not wanting to end up sprawled like Jon had. Pawly dove in that same moment, her large claws and tentacles swiping the airborne boss.

The bloodied boss yowled in pain— but didn’t stun anyone— it landed, pivoted, and went after Pawly. Pawly was a second too slow in her own dodge; the monster raked her twice. One of Pawly’s tentacles went limp, badly damaged. Pawly’s scream of pain tore at Stern’s heart as he scrambled back to his feet.

“Cammie, fire on the other two stands,” Stern said. “Keep this one between you and the boss. Jon, are you okay?”

Jon winced as he came back toward the group. “Yes. I’m bruised, but fine. My shield might not last, though.”

“Yeah, I have an answer for that,” Stern said. “Protect them from another pounce and clean the trees out. We need to be able to duck behind when the boss flashes red.”

“Stern?!” Cyra asked. Her fear spiked as she watched Trish get back to her feet and rush to help Pawly.

“Go home!” Stern shouted.

Pawly jerked in surprise, then began to vanish as the boss sailed through the spot she’d just been in.

Stern’s fingers and hands wove through a few patterns at the same time. Zasha appeared beside Stern, then grew, getting stone armor and his other upgrades in a matter of seconds. “Kill it!” Stern snarled.

Zasha bayed, then spat out a stone spike. The spike shot forward with the speed of a crossbow bolt, slamming into the boss’ side. With a yowl of pain, the cat twisted to glare at Zasha before it rushed at the stone hound.

“Trish, over here! We’ll use the trees to stop its pounce! Zasha can tank it!”

Trish had been running after the boss, but when she heard Stern, she nodded. She didn’t stop to attack when the monstrous cat and Zasha met— she ran by, her hammer cracking down once. She just missed its head, bouncing off its shoulder. The cat let out a hiss, but stayed focused on the dog.

Another flash of fire told Stern that Cammie and the others had gone off like he’d said. That was why he saw the boss yowl into Zasha’s face, staggering the hound. The cat’s head tracked toward the second stand of trees, and it began to flash red.

“Incoming!” Stern shouted, looking toward where it would leap.

He exhaled when he saw the first set of trees between it and the others. As he’d predicted, the cat leapt, hitting the stand of trees before flying back at Zasha. A single paw swiped Trish on the way past, but she went into a slide underneath it, her hammer meeting its paw with a solid thunk.

“Will he survive?” Trish panted as she reached Stern, spinning back to face the fight.

“Should. Come on.” Stern nudged her toward the last stand of trees.

The pair made it there just as Cammie threw the weakest trap. The fire was smaller, so the number of snakes that survived was higher. The boss yowled while they dealt with the snakes.

“Behind the trees, now!” Stern yelled as he fired his last bolt. “Cammie, use your last trap around the trees!”

Cammie blinked before suddenly understanding, then did as Stern had said. A second later, there was a much bigger flash of fire, along with a very pained yowl.

With the trap having hit the cat, they spread out to either side of the trees. They were there just in time to see a nearly furless monster cat land in front of Zasha. He barked, and the ground heaved where the mob’s feet touched down. The normally agile creature crashed face-first into the ground. Zasha was quick to pounce on the back of the boss’ neck.

“In!” Trish snapped, seeing the hound get the upper hand. She took off running for the boss, which was now severely disadvantaged with a stone dog clamped on its neck.

The end was anticlimactic compared to the rest of the fight; Zasha had the grip and strength to hold the boss down for them to finish it off.

They took stock of themselves, finding no major wounds. Trish and Jon both had minor injuries from where they’d tried to block. Jon’s shield was all but done for; a large crack ran the length of it.

The blue orb appeared, showing the way to the store.

“A little messy, but we did good,” Stern said. “The trees were a trap. Getting close enough would’ve triggered the swarm, and the cat would have leapt at us when that happened. It’s a good thing we were cautious with them.”

“If we’d stayed away entirely, then what, do you think?” Jon asked.

“A straight fight, possibly? Or it might have used its stunning yowl regardless, and just not leapt at us. Or it might have leapt if we hurt it enough, without the trees to help. There’s no way of knowing for sure.”

“We made it, and without major injury, through the entire dungeon,” Nicole said happily. “Jon, this was so much better.”

Jon glanced at his wife, then nodded. “Yes, it was.”

“Off to check our perks and spend our points,” Trish said. “Stern, are you keeping Zasha out?”

“Until we head home,” Stern said, giving the dog a smile. “He did good.” Reverting the buffs, Stern reached down to pat the now much smaller hound. “Good boy. I hope that Pawly forgives me.”

“She will,” Cyra said. “You saved her more pain, and she knew we’d be using Zasha occasionally.”

Stern exhaled. “I hope so.”

Zasha sat down and waved a paw.

“Oh, okay,” Stern said. “Go home.”

Zasha melted into the floor.

“I’ll be right there,” Stern said. “Go ahead.”

“We’ll wait,” Nicole said softly.

“I was thinking,” Cammie said, looking at the trees, “that I’m going to try my Treasure Finder perk. If I stand between the tree groves, it’ll cover all of them.”

“Oh, that’s a good idea,” Cyra said, standing by Stern’s side as the dwarf walked over to trees.

Stern’s fingers flexed, and Pawly appeared in front of him.

Pawly meowed, then purred, rubbing on Stern’s legs.

Stern knelt down and petted her. “Thanks for understanding.”

Pawly flopped onto her side, rolling over slowly to expose her belly.

“Okay. Belly rubs for you.”

Chapter Nine

“Welcome back,” Ria smiled at the group. “With new members, as well.”

“Ria, it’s good to see you again,” Stern smiled. “We’ll be picking up the shards for Jay Pez and Doni Durham when we get to that point, but let’s start with perks like normal.”

“Very well. Who’d like to go first?”

“Can I?” Cammie asked the group.

“Go ahead,” Jon said. “We’re the newcomers. We can go last.”

“Nonsense,” Trish said. “We don’t hold to that kind of structure. I think Cammie is just hoping to see a perk she’s seen before.”

“Yeah,” Cammie admitted.

“Your perks,” Ria told Cammie. Three sheets of paper appeared on the counter as she waved her hand over it. “Choose well.”

Cammie approached the counter, taking a deep breath before she picked up the first page. With a nod, she set it down to examine the next. She whistled softly before checking the third.

“That… that’s... just unfair.”

“What are the choices?” Stern asked.

“I can choose Long Trapper again, which is the one I’d hoped to see. There’s Trap Needs, which lets me summon a common component for a trap. I could’ve used that with that last stand of trees. The other is like Nicole’s... Magical Trapper. It’d let me work with a spell— cast by a friend— to make a trap once a day, but it only lasts for a day, too.”

“Oh... all of those sound amazing,” Cyra said.

“Two of the bigger explosive traps do sound good,” Jon nodded.

“And you could both make one a day, so the five Cammie can store in her bag could be spell traps before we leave the city. If, of course, Nicole and Jon stay with us,” Trish added.

Something about the wording tickled Stern’s mind, but he wasn’t able to grasp what was bothering him. “Honestly, any of them sound promising,” he said after a moment. “How did trying to throw your traps feel?”

“Awkward. They don’t… fly well. I didn’t land any of them where I really wanted to. I did well enough this time, but that doesn’t mean it’ll work out next time.”

“You wanted it before you saw the others,” Cyra said. “It doesn’t have a limit on being used, either.”

Cammie exhaled slowly. “I know. It’s just that they’re all so useful.”

“Sometimes, that happens,” Ria said sagely.

Cammie looked at Nicole. “Your spell trap doesn’t expire?”

“No. If yours didn’t have the expiration, I’d suggest it, but with both of those limits on it, the other ones might be better,” Nicole said.

Cammie touched the first page. “I choose this one.”

The paper broke into golden glowing light, suffusing her body. Cammie gasped as she started to fall over. Stern was the closest to her— he managed to catch her and ease her to the ground.

“Easy. I got you,” Stern murmured. “We might all want to sit down when we accept this round of perks and going forward.”

“Yes,” Jon nodded slowly. “I’ll go next, then.”

Ria collected Cammie’s unselected perks. With a smile at Jon, she laid out his choices. “Choose well, Walker.”

It didn’t take him long to look over his options. “Poison Resistance is not all that useful to me. Light Flash would give me a blinding ability once an hour... Hmm, this last one would leave an enemy with a bleeding wound. Well, the chance to leave one.”

“My brother had that perk,” Cammie said, having regained her senses. “There’s a follow-up that increases the chance.”

Stern glanced down at her. “You okay?”

“Thanks for catching me,” Cammie said softly. “I’m fine, now.”

“The third one sounds like the best for you, since you prefer blades,” Trish said. “If the blinding one was for enemies only, I’d suggest it, but it’s open to hinder us, too.”

“Yeah,” Jon agreed. He picked the page up and took a seat on the floor. “I choose this one.” With a hiss as the golden motes entered him, Jon rocked in place.

“Nicole, did you want to go next?” Cyra asked.

“Oh... uh... sure?” Nicole said undecidedly, watching her husband.

Ria collected the other perks before giving Nicole a soft smile. “It’ll be okay. Here you go.”

Nicole licked her lips, then picked up the first page. “Oh... a perk to make me less likely to be targeted. That would be useful.”

“For a caster, it would be,” Stern agreed as he helped Cammie to her feet.

Nicole set it down and checked the second. “Poison Resistance? That’s odd.”

“Were you afraid of the snakes?” Stern asked. “Dad said that, sometimes, a sudden fear would have a perk option. I had Acid Resistance show up after a slime dungeon.”

“That makes a little more sense... the sheer number of them had me worried,” Nicole replied before she picked up her third option. “Goddess...” That single word was awe. “I can change a spell into an area spell once per ten minutes.”

“That one is amazing,” Stern said, a little shocked. “Area spells are normally their own separate perk. That would let you adapt either of your spells.”

“It’s very rare,” Ria smiled. “Few could use it as you’d be able to.”

Nicole picked that paper up and was quick to recline on the floor. “I choose you.” Her whole body bucked briefly when the golden motes rushed into her.

Jon had moved to her side, barely recovered from his own choice. He stroked her hair and watched her with concern.

“Trish?” Stern nodded toward the counter.

“Got it,” Trish said, stepping up as Ria collected the other options. “Okay, Ria, let’s see what I have, please.”

“As you wish, Trish,” Ria said. Her hand passed over the counter, leaving behind Trish’s pages. “Choose well. It has been years since you’ve had this moment.”

Trish gave her a sardonic smile. “Thanks?”

Ria laughed, then touched Trish’s hand. “I meant that it’s nice to see you have the choice.”

“I’d hoped that was what you meant,” Trish chuckled, then picked up the first paper. “Hmm... I could weaken an opponent’s hardened armor if I’m using a bludgeon. Solid perk.”

“I wonder if that would give my perks to find weakness a better chance?” Jon mused.

“Good point. It’s a solid maybe right now,” Trish said as she looked at the second option. “This is… wow… It’s useless right now, but Goddess.”

“What?” Stern asked.

“Iron Mind,” Trish said.

“Wow,” Stern whispered. “Every Walker could use that. Bulwarks, especially.”

“What does it do?” Cyra asked.

“Makes it harder to influence her mentally,” Stern answered. “The higher you go, the more chances there are to run into mobs with charm abilities. Not to mention the oldest blighted can do it, too.”

Trish shook her head slowly as she set the page down, going to the third one. “Fuck a duck...” Trish sighed. “I think having two irregulars has skewed things more.”

“Don’t leave us in suspense,” Cyra said.

“Reinforced Iron Skin,” Trish said.

“Damn,” Stern whistled. “That would make you a beast at these levels, and give you better chances to hold anything we face.”

“Bulwarks all want that one,” Jon said. “The others have potential, but that one is useful both now and later.”

“He’s right,” Cammie said. “If you’d had that, you probably could’ve held the boss all by yourself.”

“Tough choices,” Ria said softly.

Trish shook her head. “I hope the others come back around, but this one is easy.” She picked up the page with Reinforced Iron Skin, took a seat against the counter, and willed it to be hers. Wincing as the perk changed her, Trish was sure she’d chosen correctly.

“Cyra, go ahead,” Stern said.

Cyra licked her lips and touched one of her long, floppy bunny ears, then moved forward. “Ria, I hope my choices aren’t as difficult.”

“Only the Goddess knows,” Ria said as she collected Trish’s unselected perks, then placed down new ones. “Choose well, Cyra.”

Cyra exhaled as she picked up the first page. With a nod, she set it down. “Moderate Life again.”

“A solid choice,” Stern said.

Cyra picked up the second page, frowning for a moment. “Improved Self-help? Any spell I target myself with is doubly as effective.”

“Oh,” Cammie whispered. “A minor heal on you would be moderate, then.”

“And, if you get a buff spell, it would double, as well,” Nicole added.

“What if she used her Mirrored Ally perk with it?” Trish said. “Would that double effectiveness count for the other person, too?”

Stern whistled. “That’d be amazing. We’d only know if we tried to use it.”

Cyra looked at the page for a moment longer before she set it slowly down. Picking up the third, she stood there, staring at it in silence.

“Cyra?” Stern asked gently.

Trish got to her feet, touching Cyra’s shoulder. “Cyra?”

“Sorry!” Cyra jerked at the touch. “Improved Life Sense 3. I can target an area for my ability to work. It wouldn’t be just from me anymore, but anywhere I can see.”

“We’d never have had to get close to those trees,” Jon said, “but the other one has the chance of being vastly better.”

“We’ve had good luck with taking improvements to perks when they show up,” Stern said slowly. “We don’t know if her chaining the double perk with her Mirrored Ally perk will work. That one will work, regardless.”

“Stern? Trish? Cammie?” Cyra asked, looking back at them.

“Life Sense has helped us repeatedly,” Stern said. “It’s a given for usefulness.”

“Stern’s right,” Cammie said. “We don’t know if the double mirror would work, and just your healing being vastly improved is a good thing.”

“If it did work, though, it would be a massive boost,” Trish said.

“I’d say the double perk,” Jon said, adding in his opinion.

“But with Cammie being able to launch traps, if Cyra can see life away from her, they can do more together, too,” Nicole suggested.

“It seems like you have a harder choice than everyone else at this point,” Ria said softly.

Cyra exhaled slowly, looking back over her options. She pushed the first paper back to Ria. “Not that one.”

Ria collected the page, watching Cyra intently. Cyra waffled for a moment more before she picked up the second page. With a long exhale, she took a seat on the floor.

“We’ll have to try a double mirror,” Trish said softly, kneeling down next to Cyra. “I’ve got you. Go ahead.”

“I’ve made my choice,” Cyra murmured. Golden sparkles rushed into Cyra, making her jerk and shudder in Trish’s arms.

Ria collected the pages, then gave Stern a smile. “Which leaves us with you, the leader of Pawsitively Irregular.”

Stern snorted as he looked down at Cyra. “Maybe, but I had help getting here.”

“Yes, you did,” Ria giggled. “Hello, Pawly.”

Pawly floated up to the counter, flopping onto it.

Stern glanced over to see her sprawled out on the far side of the counter, but her head near his hand. He began to stroke her head. “Glad you’re here to help me...” he murmured.

“Your choices,” Ria said as she placed the pages in front of Stern. “Take your time.”

Stern exhaled as he picked up the first page. Chuckling, he set it down. “Iron Mind is popular today.”

Jon’s eyebrows shot to his hairline. “Incredible.”

“Irregular, to say the least,” Trish laughed at her own joke.

Stern put it down and picked up the second page— he felt like his heart had stopped for a moment before he glanced up at Ria in shock. Pawly nudged his hand, which had stopped petting her.

“What is it?” Cammie asked, the one who had the best angle to see his face.

“Selective Empathy... I wouldn’t feel everyone all the time, but only who and when I wanted...” Stern whispered. “This…!”

Ria nodded slowly. “A long-held wish in the palm of your hand.”

Stern nearly took it then and there, but he forced himself to set it down. Swallowing, he glanced down at Cyra and Trish beside him. His two lovers got to their feet, bookending him.

“Check the third,” Trish said gently.

Blinking slowly, he did what she’d said, picking up the third perk. He snorted. “Another summons.”

“Zasha was exactly what we needed before,” Cyra murmured, “but I don’t think a third summons is the right choice.”

“It’s what you’ve always wanted,” Trish said gently. “None of us would speak against it.”

“Never,” Cammie added.

“If I could get one that fixed my flaw, I would take it,” Nicole said gently. “I can’t even begin to guess what life has been like for you before now, but I would tell you to take your heart’s desire.”

“Not every perk needs to be about the dungeons,” Jon said. “I worry this might stop you all, though.”

“No,” Stern said softly as he set the third page down. “We won’t stop here.” With a reverence he felt in his soul, he picked up the second page. “Goddess... thank you...” he whispered, tears falling as he willed the perk to be his.

Chapter Ten

Stern grunted as the feeling faded— that perk felt worse than all the others before it combined. “Thanks...” he murmured, finally able to speak again.

“Of course. We’re here for you,” Trish whispered. “How do you feel?”

Stern frowned, as the world felt… empty. It was a profoundly disturbing realization for him; all of the emotions he’d felt all his life were absent. He knew Cyra and Trish loved him, but he couldn’t feel it at that moment. Panic— raw panic— seized his heart.

“Stern?” Cyra asked, grabbing him when he swayed again.

His head jerked to face her. The lack of her love almost crushed his heart. His need to feel her emotions surged and, a second later, he did. Her worry for him was high, but underneath that was the deep love she’d felt for him for months. Gasping, he clawed at those emotions, grabbing them, pulling them into him, to reassure himself that she felt like she did.

The relief on his face helped dull her worry and fear. “Are you okay?”

“No... yes? But no,” Stern said, feeling lost. He could feel only Cyra and that troubled him deeply.

A plaintive meow came from Pawly, who wiggled on the counter.

Gaze darting to her, he exhaled as his connection to her emotions came back. Now, he felt Cyra and Pawly equally, and he was able to breathe easier.

“You feeling better now, lover?” Trish asked again.

Wiping his brow, he turned his head to see her. With a brief effort of will, her emotions came back to him. “Yeah... Sorry. It was all gone for a moment. I couldn’t feel anyone, not even Pawly. I… missed it… It’s always been there, the sea of emotion. I was lost. I can feel you, Cyra, and Pawly again. It’s like a toggle. I don’t feel someone unless I want to… but I’m afraid to try turning it off and back on again.”

“Try it on me?” Cammie suggested softly. “This way, if it fails to toggle correctly, you don’t lose them.”

Stern exhaled slowly, glancing at Ria. Her emotions came to him: happiness with a fading worry. Giving her a smile, he turned to Cammie, letting her emotions hit him.

Maybe it was this new emotional feeling, or maybe she was just feeling especially strongly, but Cammie’s emotions slammed into him. Blinking at what he felt, he stared into her sky-blue eyes, letting the feelings seep into him.

Cammie’s fear was strong, but when he didn’t refuse her, the fear began to fade, replaced by worry. Under that worry was a desire— not lust, but love. She yearned for love. Stern had never felt emotion in that way before, but staring at her, he could clearly feel it. Her embarrassment grew as Stern continued to meet her eyes. Doubt, uncertainty, and other emotions built. The fear that she wasn’t good enough, good-looking enough, smart enough, strong enough all began to grow faster and faster.

Stern took the three steps toward her before bending down, then hugging her. He hadn’t done it with thought; it was reflexive. It was the desire to comfort a friend, someone he cared for deeply. When he did, shock hit Cammie, but also hope— deep hope— that he maybe understood her.

A gentle cough broke their moment. “I hate to interrupt,” Jon said, “but we still need to spend the points, collect the shards, and call it done, right?”

Stern exhaled, letting go of Cammie. Cammie held him for a second longer before letting him go, her face flushed. She turned away from the others, fixing her hair in an effort to give her time. Cyra and Trish exchanged a soft smile before the pair shifted to bracket Cammie.

“Uh, yeah,” Stern said, feeling the three women keenly. It was so much easier to know their emotions now that theirs were the only ones impinging on him. He let Cyra and Trish speak with Cammie.

“The two shards you asked for,” Ria smiled brightly. “You still don’t want the point breakdown, correct?”

“It’s a crew effort, not individual-based,” Stern said, moving to the counter. “Just the total.”

“And you three all would like your points given to Stern?” Ria called out to the trio of whispering women.

“Yes,” Trish said.

“Always,” Cyra said.

“Please,” Cammie added.

“Why?” Jon asked, coming over to the counter to stand with Stern.

“Collective points give a chance for better rewards,” Stern said. “Your points are yours to spend, but we’ve habitually combined them. After getting shards, we then figure out what would be best to spend the pool on. We were picking up lesser runes because of that.”

“Your sword could use those,” Nicole told Jon.

“I was holding out for a regular rune,” Jon said, “but with the slots I have, a lesser rune wouldn’t be horrible for one of them, at least.”

“How many points do I have?” Nicole asked Ria.

“You have three hundred and sixty-five points,” Ria replied. “Your husband has the same.”

“We could get you a lesser rune together,” Nicole said happily.

“Stern and the three who have asked have a combined total of one thousand five hundred, due to Cammie accruing a small personal bonus,” Ria said.

“Five hundred off from a normal rune,” Stern murmured. “Okay, what do we have as a crew to split?”

“Do you want the total, or the total after the shards?” Ria asked.

“After the shards.”

“That would be two thousand three hundred and five.”

“So many points?” Jon asked, wide-eyed.

“The dungeon monsters themselves weren’t terribly difficult,” Ria said, “but combined, they could’ve been far worse. The snakes never bit you because of your inventiveness. If they had, anyone but Cammie would’ve grown lethargic. Repeated bites would’ve continued to make you sleepier.”

“Making it easier for the cats, especially the boss,” Nicole whispered in growing horror.

“Exactly. The boss was worth more experience because of its leaping ability. It would’ve seriously injured any of you without a shield.”

“Goddess...” Jon sighed. “Stern, if we gave you our points, what would you do with them?”

“Combined with all of us, get two runes,” Stern replied. “One for your sword, and either one for my crossbow or for when Trish gets a new hammer. That’d leave about five hundred. Do either of you need something?”

“No,” Nicole said quickly, but softly. “The rune would be enough.”

“Are you sure you wouldn’t rather get lesser runes for everyone?”

“We could, but two quality runes would be far better than eight lesser runes. Most of our gear currently can’t take runes, so they’d just be held for later or sold to other Walkers. Ria, would the extra five hundred and change be enough for a shard for anyone else?”

“There is another with two shards left that could have one pulled for five hundred twenty-five.”

“If you two don’t object, I’d do that,” Stern said. “That would leave us with ten, and I’d go with two chocolate squares to zero it out.”

“That’d be fine,” Jon said. “Which runes?”

“Select the one you want for your sword,” Stern smiled. “I noticed your sword is dark iron.”

“Family gift,” Jon said a little tightly.

“I’ve had those myself,” Stern said, “but probably on better terms. It’s odd not being able to feel your underlying emotions. I feel a little blind. It feels good, but disquieting.”

Jon shook his head. “I don’t even want to imagine what you went through. Ria, can I have a cold rune, please?”

A rune, an inch across with a snowflake on it, appeared on the counter. “This is the one you want?”

“Thank you,” Jon said, picking it up. “What are you going to get, Stern?”

“I’m not sure. Trish, what rune should we go with?”

“Air?” Trish half-asked.

“If I put it on the crossbow, that’ll be interesting,” Stern chuckled.

“Why?” Nicole asked.

“Air runes produce a clap of sound when they hit,” Stern said. “I might leave that for Trish’s next weapon. And the shards, please, Ria.”

Three shards appeared on the counter, along with two chocolate squares. “This concludes my assistance. Safe runs, Walkers.” With a smile, she was gone.

Stern put the rune and shards away, then picked up the chocolates. He grinned as he handed the married couple the sweets. “Kind of a crew tradition at this point. Extra points means chocolate squares, and we’ve always managed to get them for new members.”

Nicole giggled as she took hers, eating it.

“Different. One might say... irregular,” Jon said deadpan before he ate his.

“Now, the big question,” Trish said, coming over to join them, “are you going to keep running with us?”

“I want to,” Nicole mumbled around her mouthful of chocolate.

Jon gave her a soft smile, then nodded, still eating his own piece.

“Okay, back to the Walker’s hall to turn in the shards. Afterward, they have us take them to the temple. We’ll also get you two added on, which means you’ll get to display our emblem.” Trish tapped her badge to show them. It was no longer tin; it was now nickel, and bearing a single mark.

Stern glanced down to see his own badge had changed. Pride in their accomplishment soared in him—they’d made it to the third tier of dungeons, and had managed it without major issues with two new members. Solid people who would be with them after this dungeon.

“And we have the room in our suite, if you’d like to join us,” Trish was saying. “Crew pays for lodging and food, after all.”

“We have our room for tonight already,” Jon said. “We’ll use it tonight. When do we leave?”

“About that,” Stern said, looking back at Pawly sprawled on part of the counter. “We have a tradition, but we can discuss it as we turn in quests. Pawly, are you coming with or waiting for dinner?”

Pawly waved a paw.

“Fine. Go home.”

“The short version is maybe a week from now,” Trish said. “But we’ll explain, maybe over dinner?”

“Oh! We should have a big dinner tonight,” Cyra said, “to celebrate our run and to welcome our new friends.”

“That would be nice,” Nicole said.

Stern nodded, but he was a little nervous at the idea of more people being there when he proposed. “We should... but first, we have shards to turn in.”

“Yes... rebirths,” Jon said somberly.

With no more said, they left the shop, each thinking about how things were changing for them that evening.

Chapter Eleven

The crew entered the guildhall, knowing they had to make more stops afterward. Stern was in a little bit of shock— he could still feel the emotions from Cyra, Trish, and Cammie, but only them. The lack of emotions from everyone else was surreal to him.

Even with the oddity pressing on him, he was still the leader of their crew. They stopped at the Walker’s receptionist first. “Harriet,” Stern greeted her, “we need to add Jon and Nicole to the crew, please.”

Harriet looked up, then smiled. “Good. I’d hoped they’d find a crew. It really is terrible how people treat irregulars. If you two will come over here and touch the pad with your dominant hands, please?”

It was quick and easy to add them to the crew; their badges displayed the icon a moment after they were accepted. Nicole touched the paw on her badge with a smile, and Jon was indifferent about it.

Stern stepped over to Matilda’s desk. “Miss, we have the two shards we went in after, as well as a shard for a Max Pellant.”

Matilda was smiling, but a hint of shock touched her features. “You picked up an extra shard?”

“We had some points we didn’t expect to have,” Stern said. “Picking up someone else’s shard was a good use for them.”

“Max was the other person I’d told you about. Five years waiting for his last two. Now, he’ll have just a single shard left, tying him with others at that point.”

“May someone take kindness on his soul soon,” Stern said softly.

“I have a follow-up quest to take these shards to the temple. Let them know who they are. They’ll start the rebirths and hold Max’s shard in their vault until his last is reclaimed.”

“I accept,” Stern said, gently taking the shards back as the quest slotted into his mind.

“Let me pay you for bringing them.”

“Please place all of it, and the reward for the new quest, on the crew’s recovery accounts.”

“Very well,” Matilda smiled. “I’m glad to see souls brought out, but also to see a new crew taking steps to ensure they come back out, too.”

“Have a good night,” Stern said as he put the shards into his pouch and turned to leave with his crew.

The tables closest to the receptionist were quiet, watching them. When Stern turned around, one of the people at the nearest table patted the air to indicate he wanted Stern to stop. When Stern did, the man smiled. “You pulled three shards and picked up gear?”

“A rune for our newest member, and the shards,” Stern said, motioning at Jon. “We had a good run.”

“One rune? So you spent the majority on shards, but then spent more on the third shard instead of getting more runes?”

“We spent about an even amount between shards and gear for Jon,” Stern said.

“Wait, rune? Not a lesser rune?”

“A normal rune of cold,” Jon said.

“Good run, indeed,” the man snorted, shaking his head. “But you turned down the monetary reward, too?”

“Didn’t turn it down. We made sure we have accounts so we can be retrieved quicker,” Stern said.

“But how will you pay for your rooms, food, beer, and salve?”

“We have it under control,” Stern said a little tightly. He was off-balance; he didn’t know if the man was just curious or intentionally being a dick.

“Probably whores out the bunny,” a voice drifted out of the crowd.

Stern’s head snapped up, his eyes searching until he found who’d spoken. “Brandon, wasn’t it? As you can see, your hope that we fracture was unwarranted. And, if you imply that I use my lover as a whore again, I’ll beat the ever-living shit out of you, if Trish doesn’t first.”

Trish had pulled out her hammer, her eyes hard as she stared at the man. “Want to step outside and say that again, dickless?”

“What do you mean he hoped you fractured?” the questioning man asked.

“Brandon and Billy accosted them on their way in,” another voice answered. “Brandon wished them ill.”

“They accosted us!” Billy said, getting to his feet. “Can’t trust blighted irregulars, can you?”

“He just pulled two souls out!” an elven woman snapped. “That’s a damned sight more than you’ve ever done, Billy Warren. I’d trust a crew led by him before I trusted yours to pull me out.”

“Walkers,” Harriet said, standing up at her desk, “keep it civil inside the hall. If you have a problem, take it outside.”

Trish snorted as she slung her hammer over her shoulder. “I would, but he doesn’t have the balls. Sorry, miss.”

“It’s fine. I sided with you, considering his comment,” Harriet said. “Suggesting you would sell a fellow crew member for cash is disgusting. Then again, it’s known that Brandon can’t even buy affection.”

A ripple of laughter came from the crowd, which had all paused to watch the drama.

Brandon shot to his feet, his chair toppling. “Is the receptionist taking sides in a dispute between Walkers?”

Harriet stared at him. “Of course not. I’ve asked you to take it outside and expressed an opinion on words mentioned in my presence. I’m not saying I hope she beats you black, blue, and red.”

Billy sneered as he stood up. “We’ll be registering a complaint. Everyone here heard you!”

“Like everyone at the dungeon this morning heard you say you hoped we fracture,” Stern said flatly. “Of the things said that shouldn’t have been, yours is worse by an order of magnitude.”

Billy snarled. “Freak! Come on, Brandon, we’re heading to Goldwood. At least the Walkers’ employees there are likely unbiased.”

Brandon snorted as he followed Billy out the door.

“Good riddance,” someone in the crowd snickered. “The intelligence of the room just shot up.”

That got more laughter, and the majority of the room went back to previous conversations.

The original person shook his head. “Didn’t mean to cause a scene. Best luck to your crew.”

“Thank you,” Stern exhaled. “Oh, Trish, do you want to set the bar here? We can hit the inn bar when we get back there.”

“Right,” Trish said. She broke away, heading for the bar. Two people went behind it, setting up drinks for service. When she got there, she pulled some cash out and passed it to them. Once she had, Trish turned to face the room. “Excuse me! Your attention, please?”

Every head turned her way.

“Keeping with tradition, two souls will be reborn soon. It doesn’t happen often at this tier, but as you advance, you’ll see it more frequently. Let the rebirth of lost Walkers be celebrated! Your next drink is on Pawsitively Irregular as we celebrate the good deed to take place!”

An older, grizzled man stood up, his dark iron badge visible. “Take back your cash. I’ll buy the round. Two, in fact; one for each rebirth started by your crew. It isn’t supposed to be the rescue crew that pays, but others.” He looked over the room. “Maybe you can’t do it now, but remember this tradition later. It might be your rebirth we celebrate, or mine. Always try to keep a little set aside for this.”

Trish met the man’s gaze, then bowed her head. “Very well.” She turned back to the bartender, who quickly refunded her.

“Now, go get them started,” the man smiled. “The bar here and the inn next door will be told.”

“Thank you, sir,” Stern said, bowing his head.

“Gen Warr,” the man said, “leader of…” He trailed off for a moment. “Former leader of Dark Eyes. Retired as of yesterday. For those wondering, we lost four, but had them brought out. I came home to retire. I’ll be opening a pub in the coming year.”

Murmurs started and Trish went toward Stern and the others. As the crowd got up to ask Joshua questions, the crew slipped away from the guildhall.

~*~*~

They walked in silence for a bit. The temple wasn’t too far away, and they were almost there when Nicole said, “Sorry for dragging old troubles into your laps.”

Stern snorted. “Brandon and Billy aren’t troubles. Annoyances, maybe, but that’s all. It’s nothing to apologize to us for. We had troubles of our own that nearly cost us in the past.”

Cammie shivered. “Nearly cost us a lot.”

“Story there?” Jon asked.

“A family story. Cammie’s family,” Stern said. “It’s up to her if she wants to tell it.”

“Maybe over dinner. It’s one of the reasons we had two spots open instead of one,” Cammie said. “It turned out well, but at the time… it was terrible.”

Nicole shifted closer to touch Cammie’s shoulder. “You don’t have to.”

“It’s fine,” Cammie said softly. “We’ve all had moments before.”

“I was wondering,” Jon said, derailing the conversation, “you never really said when we’ll leave the city.”

“Oh, well, that’s because we train before we leave, get our gear checked, and replace vital equipment. We train in weapons and unarmed combat, mostly,” Stern said. “It’s helped us all grow together as a crew, and individually.”

“I’m not a good fighter,” Nicole whispered nervously.

“I wasn’t, either, for a long time,” Cyra said as she went to Nicole’s side. “We start slow. It’ll be nice to help someone like me.”

Nicole glanced at Cyra, a smile coming to her. “Okay... I’ll try.”

Jon had been about to object, but hearing his wife agree, he let it go. “Tomorrow?”

“We’ll start then,” Stern said. “But first, we turn in the shards, have dinner, and enjoy welcoming our new friends.”

“Sounds good.”

Entering the temple, Stern braced for the pain and loss, but felt nothing. The continued lack of emotions from anyone but the three women he cared for was still catching him flatfooted. He felt the worry for him from the trio of women, and he gave them a nervous smile.

Trish took his hand. “You alright?”

“Yeah. The lack of emotions is unnerving, but it’s nice,” Stern whispered back.

“Oh? Can we help you?” an acolyte asked, hurrying over to them.

“We have shards for you, Sister,” Stern said. “Two shards are the last pieces for two people. The third is the next to last shard for another.”

The acolyte blinked at him, then grabbed his hands, clasping them in hers. “Thank you, Walker! Thank you!”

Stern rocked back a little— there was no emotion from her, but her gratitude was still obvious enough that he reacted to it. “It’s what we do, Sister.” He looked at Trish, who chuckled and pulled the shards from his bag, as his hands were being held.

“Here, Sister,” Trish smiled.

“Thank you,” she said, letting go of Stern’s hands to take the shards. She turned to the room, raising her voice, “Sisters, we have rebirths to begin!”

“Praise be to you, Walkers!” another acolyte called out.

“I’ll start getting things ready!” another said.

Stern watched them bustle off, then looked over the room. Five people were being cared for, a few with family beside them. A single body was covered by a shroud, but no one was there to mourn them. The lack of emotion let him breathe easily, but he could clearly imagine what the room would feel like without his new perk.

“Come on, lover,” Trish murmured. “Time to get cleaned up for dinner.”

Stern nodded, letting her lead him out of the temple. As he went, Stern closed his eyes as a tear slipped free. Thank you, Goddess... Thank you...

Chapter Twelve

The bath was different than normal. The inn had a large tub that up to four people could use together, along with separate rooms. Cyra, Trish, and Stern used the big tub. They didn’t do more than light touches, not wanting to delay dinner, but the three of them had come a long way since Darkstone.

Cyra giggled the entire time Stern and Trish had washed her, with not a single ounce of fear or worry. Only love, contentment, and lust radiated from her while her lovers soaped her up, then rinsed her down.

Stern grinned happily the entire time. He’d only felt his lovers and Cammie since he’d selected the perk, and he was coming to appreciate it more and more. Their deep love was something he wrapped around himself; he hoped that love would be just as strong after dinner.

Washed, dressed, and ready for dinner, the three of them left the bathroom behind. Making it back to their room, they found Cammie chatting with Jon and Nicole.

“Didn’t think we took that long,” Stern said.

A small spike of jealousy came from Cammie before it vanished, disappearing behind longing and hope. “I was quick, and these two apparently had the same setup at the inn they’d been using, so they washed quickly, too,” she said.

“We brought most of our things over tonight,” Nicole said softly. “I hope that’s okay?”

“It’s fine,” Trish grinned. “I love your dress.”

Nicole blushed, which would’ve been impossible to see if it hadn’t reached her neck. The black gown was beautiful, with long sleeves and a flowing skirt that stopped at her ankles. The high collar had a small notch at the front to show her pale neck, but stopped before anything else could be seen. Her gloves extended into her sleeves, and the black mask she wore hid everything but her eyes, hair, and mouth.

“Crushed velvet?” Stern asked.

“You know about it?” Nicole asked in surprise.

“One of my mothers has a dress just like it. It’s one of her favorites.”

“Mine, too. I rarely wear it, though. It requires gentle cleaning and time to care for it.”

“We occasionally visit places where your dress would be ideal,” Stern smiled.

Cammie’s smile grew slightly, as she recalled the one time she’d been to a place like Stern had mentioned— it was when he’d reunited her with her mother.

“Dinner will be here soon,” Cyra said. “We need to drop off our clothes real fast.”

Stern collected all the clothing, carrying them to their room. With the door closed behind him, he retrieved two of the three rings he’d set aside. He was glad he didn’t have to try hiding them for long. He would explain the extra to them later, positive that they’d understand from the conversations they’d had before leaving Whitewater.

Taking a deep breath, he secreted the two rings away as best he could. When he went back out to the main room, the others were all seated in the living area. The only open seat left was between Trish and Cyra on the sofa. He was almost over to them when a knock came on the door.

“That should be dinner,” he said. “I’ll get it.”

One of the servers from the inn was there, along with two women in uniforms he didn’t know. “They come from the best place that delivers,” the server told him. “I’ll be going to fetch dessert in a half-hour, sir.”

“Thank you. Please set the table,” Stern said, letting the women into the room.

“I brought two wine bottles based on the food,” the server said, trailing the other two into the room. “If you need anything else before dessert, just let me know.”

“I will,” Stern smiled as everyone went to the table.

Once the table was set and the wine had been poured, he showed the staff out, thanking them. Taking his seat, they began to enjoy their meal. Stern paused at the start to summon Pawly, apologizing for calling her so late.

Pawly took an empty chair, then meowed, waiting for her own serving.

Nicole giggled, happy to have the animal at the table, and was quick to give Pawly some food— Stern was glad that Nicole was willing to see Pawly as a full part of their crew.

~*~*~

The meal had been good, if not great. Stern, however, was a bit disappointed, but didn’t let it show. Everyone else had enjoyed it, so he set aside his dissatisfaction. If he was being honest with himself, it was that he just wanted it to be exquisite to add an extra memory to the night.

When they finished, Jon asked about their past troubles, reminding Stern about their conversation earlier. “Well, the story is a long one... Cyra, Cammie, are you both okay with me telling it?”

“Yes,” Cammie said first.

“It’s how all of this started,” Cyra said. There was a hint of old pain in her, but also a lot of happiness. “We can share with our friends.”

“Okay,” Stern said slowly. “It all began when I went to Bloodstone to finish the last dungeon of the tier…”

~*~*~

Stern explained it all: his first encounter with Cyra’s grandmother and Skippy, which had led to him pulling Cyra out and getting her reborn. When he got to the point where he killed Skippy, he slowed. He didn’t want to admit that he was a murderer, but he pushed through it.

Jon grunted, telling Stern that he’d done the right thing. Nicole nodded, but her eyes were large saucers behind her mask.

The circus of a trial had both of them looking horrified and angry. Cyra interrupted him when he got to his exoneration and decision to pull her through the dungeons, jumping in to explain why she was a Walker.

Stern tried to skip over things until they’d met Cammie, but Nicole was curious how Trish had joined him and Cyra. Trish jumped in there so Stern could rest his voice. Pawly had flopped onto the table, accepting pets from everyone as they talked.

Nicole was smiling while Trish explained her plan to seduce both her lovers. Cyra blushed, giggling as she leaned against Stern. Stern just shook his head, but he was smiling the entire time.

Eventually, they got to the part where Cammie and her brother joined the group. Cammie took over from there, giving Stern some insight as to what Cammie had been thinking during that point. She covered why she and her brother had decided to become Walkers.

Nicole was all sympathy when Cammie explained how Vulk felt when their mother hadn’t come out of the dungeon. Cammie then went on to describe her brother’s drinking problem, and how Stern decided to help him.

Stern took over once more, explaining how the past had come back to them, telling them about Victor Bloodcoin kidnapping Vulk. The couple was appalled at that, and Jon looked grim. Stern laid the story out— how the Walkers banded together to get Vulk back, and how Victor died in the ensuing struggle.

“Good,” Jon snorted. “If someone ever tried to take Nicole… I would be even less understanding.”

“It’s not over,” Cammie said softly. “While we recovered from that ordeal, Stern did more.”

“More?” Nicole asked.

“He’d asked about my mother, then used his family connections to get her shards retrieved so she could be reborn.”

Jon’s eyebrows shot up. “You said she fell in Winterspring.”

“Yes.”

Jon’s gaze went back to Stern. “Your family must be rich, powerful, or both.”

“Both,” Stern shrugged. “I’ve been doing my best to make my own way, but for friends… I asked for help.”

“She was reborn and brought down to us,” Cammie sniffled happy tears, petting Pawly as she spoke. “She got to meet Emma and was there when Vulk decided to settle down, marrying her.”

“That’s so sweet,” Nicole sniffled.

“Cammie stayed on with us,” Cyra said softly, giving the dwarf a bright smile. “We’ve been blessed to have her.”

“Yes,” Trish smiled. “It’s always better with friends.”

“And she was a major help in us not being severely injured,” Jon said. “I’m grateful she was with us, and part of the crew.”

Cammie wiped her tears away. “Thank you...”

“Well, that took far longer than I thought it would,” Trish said. “Maybe we should push training off tomorrow and do gear checks, instead?”

Stern looked out the moonless window. “Might be for the best... but there is one more thing I’ve been hoping to do tonight.”

“Oh?” Cyra asked.

Stern got to his feet, then turned to face his two lovers. His father had taught him how to propose in the hopes that Stern might find a woman to love. Swallowing, he lowered himself to one knee before them. “Cyra, Trish... thank you. Thank you for loving me, for giving me that which I always wanted. It hasn’t been years and years, but I can’t think of a future without you. So, please... accept me as your husband?” He pulled the two rings out, held on his palms.

The room was still— the emotions that flooded into him were overpowering. The love and happiness were the strongest emotions he’d ever felt, but before those two flooded the room, he felt the thick loneliness and jealousy from his left.

Both women took the rings, slipping them onto their fingers before they grabbed him, kissing him and whispering their love and joy.

Nicole and Jon watched with smiles, thinking back to their own moment. Cammie had a smile, but she had to fight her own emotions. She was excited for her friends— joyous, even— but she couldn’t snuff out the jealousy she felt. She couldn’t give voice to it, either; she hadn’t earned her right to ask if she could join them.

Jon and Nicole got to their feet to congratulate them. Nicole hugged both women tightly, surprising Jon, as Nicole shied away from physical contact with most people. After giving well wishes, the couple left hand-in-hand, smiling.

Cammie snuck off to her room during the parting, not wanting to spoil the moment for her friends. She never saw the shadow that slipped into her room with her. Her self-loathing over her own conflicted heart grew as she tried to find sleep.

Finding themselves alone when Jon and Nicole left, the three lovers retreated to their room. Stern glanced at Cammie’s door with concern, but didn’t slow in following his lovers.

When the door closed behind Stern, Trish was on him, kissing him fiercely. Cyra hugged Stern from the other side, wanting to give him all her love, too. The pair of them showering him in affection drove the thoughts of Cammie from his mind.

As Cammie tossed and turned, Pawly snuggled up next to her, purring. Cammie held her tightly, accepting at least this little bit of Stern. She cried and Pawly groomed her tears away, comforting her friend as best she could.

Chapter Thirteen

Stern woke slowly, the profound love in the room flowing over him. Last night, he’d loved Cyra, and there was no hesitation, no fear— there’d been only acceptance, love, and joy. Trish had been the same the entire evening. He had no idea when they finally went to sleep, but the sun was up when he looked out the window.

He thought back to asking them, and them accepting. He replayed that memory, letting the feeling of joy come back to him. Then, he remembered the emotions that had come from Cammie and his smile dimmed.

What does it mean for us going forward? Cammie slipped away before we went to bed. Did she not want to see us? Is she going to leave? Stern had a million questions and no answers.

Trish stirred against him, pulling his mind back to his lover beside him. “Mhm...” Trish murmured as she kissed his chest.

“Good morning,” Stern whispered.

“It really is,” Cyra said from his other side.

“Agreed,” Trish smiled sleepily. She lifted her hand from Stern’s waist, looking at the ring on her finger. “One of the best of my life.”

Cyra sighed happily. “Last night was the best day of my life to this point.”

Stern kissed each of them before his earlier concerns drifted back to him. “I’m a little worried.”

“Cammie?” Trish asked.

“Yes, she felt… bad last night. Jealous and lonely.”

“No...” Cyra said softly. “Do you mind if we go speak with her for a few minutes?”

“Is that wise?” Stern asked uncertainly.

“It’s for the best,” Trish said as she got out of bed. “She hasn’t approached us yet, but she might be stopping herself for false reasons. Let us talk with her.”

“If… if she says she’s interested—?” Cyra started to broach the topic as she stood up.

“You should both know something,” Stern said softly, interrupting Cyra. “When I got your rings, I picked up a third. They’re identical.”

Trish chuckled. “Wanted her with us already, hmm?”

“Don’t tease him,” Cyra said gently, sitting on the bed beside him. “Is that what you want?”

“I’d rather she not move that fast, but I wanted to be prepared and, if it happens, for her to be equal,” Stern said softly, not looking up at them.

“I think that’s a good idea,” Trish said seriously as she took a seat, too. “We’ll see if she wants to be more than just a friend. If so, we can see where that takes us. Not marriage, not yet, but giving her the chance to join would be good. Or… we might be saying goodbye soon.”

Stern nodded, feeling terrible even with their love around him. “Is it wrong, though? I did that before I talked with you both.”

“We’d suggested she might be a part of our relationship weeks ago before we left Whitewater,” Trish soothed him. “We didn’t know you’d be offering us this step so soon. We both hoped, but thought it would be later. I think Cammie slipped away to not hurt our moment last night.”

“Oh...” Cyra said, sniffling. “She would’ve been torn up all night...”

“Yes, which is why we’ll talk with her. Just stay here for a few minutes. Okay, Stern?”

Stern closed his eyes, pulling their love for him and their concern for their friend into his soul. “Please. Just let me know if I can help?”

“Pawly didn’t come with us last night, so no doubt you’ve already helped some,” Trish said, kissing his head. “We’ll find out.”

Cyra also gave Stern a kiss on the head. “I hope she wants to stay with us as a friend, if not more.”

“Me, too,” Stern said thickly, feeling awkward as hell— his rush to propose had caused this.

Both women dressed quickly before slipping out of the room. Before the door closed, he heard Cammie greet the pair. His heart ached and he tried to calm himself, hoping his lovers could help untangle the problem he’d caused.

~*~*~

Trish smiled when she saw Cammie petting Pawly. She gave the cat a silent thank you as she crossed to take a seat near her. “Didn’t sleep well?” Trish asked gently.

“Yeah...no” Cammie said, then corrected, before looking down at Pawly. “She did her best to help.”

Cyra licked her lips, trying to find a way to approach the subject as she sat next to Trish. “Pawly only helps the people she cares for.”

“She’s sweet...” Cammie whispered, her hand stilling on Pawly’s side.

“Why haven’t you asked?” Trish asked bluntly, but gently.

Cammie blinked, then slowly lifted her head to stare at Trish.

“We thought you would, but you haven’t,” Trish said. “Why do you hesitate? We know you like being with us, and your drunk admissions made it sound like more. Over the last few weeks, you’ve not given us any more hints.”

Cyra was as surprised as Cammie at Trish’s blunt approach. “She had reasons,” Cyra said, defending Cammie. “Maybe she… doesn’t want that.”

Cammie’s surprise redoubled at Cyra’s sudden defense, but then she looked down again. No... she just doesn’t want me involved, but doesn’t want to hurt me, either, Cammie thought darkly.

Pawly let out a soft complaint, reaching up to bat Cammie’s hand gently, without claws.

Cammie began to pet her again reflexively.

“I can accept that,” Trish said. “I’d just like to know if we pushed her away.”

“Oh, right,” Cyra murmured. “Sorry. I just want to…” She trailed off, then got up abruptly. She moved to sit beside Cammie, opposite Pawly. “Cammie, can I hold you?”

That jarred Cammie— Cyra wasn’t overly touchy-feely with people because of her past. To be so forward about it made Cammie glance at her. Seeing Cyra’s open, honest, and hopeful expression had Cammie doubting her thoughts.

As the moment drew on, Cyra’s hope faltered and her expression started to turn to sorrow. Cammie stopped that by putting her arm around the rabbit lykian, erasing the expression Cyra had and bringing a smile to her face.

“You can always hold me, Cyra...” Cammie whispered.

“Does that extend to me?” Trish asked.

There was a flicker of Cammie’s eyes to Trish just before a nod.

Trish moved over, then paused. “Pawly, please?”

Pawly sighed, then crawled firmly into Cammie’s lap.

“Thank you, your majesty,” Trish snorted as she took the now open spot on the sofa. Her arm went around Cammie’s waist. “We aren’t here to hurt you. We think you had enough of that last night.”

Cammie swallowed the lump in her throat. Her jealousy spiked along with her feelings for these two who were here to comfort her, when they should be in their room still celebrating with… Stern. The thought of him made her eyes tear up.

“We’re here,” Cyra whispered, rubbing Cammie’s back. “We won’t judge you or hurt you. Just tell us how you feel? I wish I had his perk right now.”

“It would make it easier for all of us if we did,” Trish agreed.

Cammie took in a ragged breath and just let her words tumble out, “I hate you both right now. You have him and I don’t. He’s so kind, gentle, and caring. All he does is help everyone, even while he struggles to deal with the hatred and bigotry all around him. He saved my family, gave me happiness, gave my brother joy, but he never looks at me. He has you two. He has his fierce warrior and loving healer. What does he need with an ugly, stupid dwarf?”

Tears fell like rain as Cammie poured out everything she felt. If they drove her off, so be it. She had to let it all out while she had the strength. When Stern came out, he’d be disgusted with her— she was sure of it.

Pawly grabbed her hand with her massive paws before grooming it gently with her rough sandpaper tongue, showing her own version of love.

“Saved you from being fractured, fought for you, taught you, loves you!” Cammie hiccupped out the raw emotion. “Lets Trish protect him, helps her save you, loves her aggression. He loves your soft demeanor, too. Why would he ever even consider me?! I have nothing that he doesn’t already have with one of you!”

“You only want him?” Trish asked softly.

“No!” Cammie sobbed harder, her tears landing on the same hand Pawly cleaned. “You make me… feel… Cyra is so soft, so timid… I want… but…!”

Cyra leaned in impulsively, kissing Cammie’s cheek. “We want you here with us.”

“We do,” Trish said, copying what Cyra did to drive the point home. “It might not be what we have with him, not right now, but we’re more than willing to let you in. We didn’t want to scare you off. Your brother basically said Stern had better not have designs on you, so we waited for you to show us what you wanted.”

“We didn’t want you to run away... we don’t want you to leave,” Cyra added gently.

“But he…! He doesn’t—!”

“He picked up three rings,” Trish said firmly.

The world froze for Cammie at those words: the implication took all of her objections and crushed them.

“For later,” Trish said gently. “He doesn’t press. He’s as timid as Cyra in anything emotional because of all the pain he’s endured. He hoped, as we did, but he would have been distraught if he’d asked and you were disgusted.”

“If you want to try being more,” Cyra said gently, “we’d need to do what we’ve done before. Go slowly, make sure we’re all comfortable, and follow the rules; communication, honesty, and trust.”

“He bought three...?” Cammie asked in a half-daze. The idea that he’d thought of her in that way, but was holding back out of fear of hurting her, had shaken her to the core.

“Identical to ours, so we can all be equal in time,” Trish whispered. “We asked him to stay in the room.”

Cammie swallowed the lump in her throat. She knew why they were here; he’d felt her emotions last night. She’d tried to stop them, but hadn’t, meaning he’d kept his perk on her after he’d tested it. There was only one reason why he would.

“Can… he… ask?” Cammie managed between ragged breaths as she tried to stop crying.

“I’ll get him,” Cyra said. Before she got up, she kissed Cammie’s cheek again. “I care for you, Cammie.”

Cammie hiccupped at that— she was sure that, if she could feel emotions like Stern, Cyra’s love and concern would be a sun to her. Trish wiping her tears away made her amend that to both Cyra’s and Trish’s.

~*~*~

Stern jerked when Cyra entered the room, the fear on his face clear. Cyra smiled softly at him, then held out her hand. Exhaling a shaky breath, he went to her. “Is she—?”

“She needs you to ask,” Cyra whispered. “Trish and I agree to try. Please?”

Stern could feel the emotions from Cyra, but also from Cammie and Trish in the other room. Exhaling again, he took Cyra’s hand, leaving the room with her.

As the pair came into the room, Cammie looked up. Tears still fell, but much slower than earlier. She was a mess, and her fear and self-loathing spiked.

“Cammie,” Stern said slowly, hoping his lovers were certain, not wanting to ever hurt them. He admitted that Cammie’s pain hurt him, too, more than just her emotions. “Cammie,” he said again, “I would like to see if you could join us in a relationship beyond friendship. It’ll be awkward and we might stumble, but all of us want you to stay beside us.”

Cammie stared into his eyes. His face was a mixture of hope and fear. She nodded jerkily. “I don’t want to intrude if I’m—”

“You’re gladly welcomed,” Stern said quickly, cutting her off. “All of us thought you might… since Whitewater… and…” he rambled awkwardly, trying to explain.

Cammie’s heart began to calm, her love growing as she watched him fumble at telling her what she’d wanted to hear for weeks. “Slowly?”

Stern relaxed, giving her an awkward smile. “Please?”

“Slow is a relative term,” Trish murmured, her lips twisting into a smirk. “I mean, slow for me is much faster than for some others.”

Cyra smiled at Trish. “But you go slower for our sakes.”

“True. My fluffy bunny needs to be comfortable.”

“‘Fluffy bunny’?” Cammie half-giggled, half-cried.

Cyra flushed. “My nickname… I like it.”

“You’ll get one, too,” Trish said softly into Cammie’s ear. “Once we get to know you in certain ways.”

The hard spike of lust, love, acceptance, and joy shot from Cammie into Stern. He grunted as he swayed in place.

Cammie jerked, her face flushing hotly. “I… uh…!”

“Shh,” Trish said, placing a finger on her lips. “He checks on you because he cares and doesn’t want to hurt you. He’ll be fine.”

Stern exhaled, nodding. “She’s right. If it makes you uncomfortable, I can—”

“No!” Cammie cut him off. “It helped this moment happen... because I was jealous and afraid. Please… leave it?”

Stern exhaled, then moved to sit with Cammie. “Okay.”

Cyra took a seat on the floor in front of Cammie. “So, uh... how do we start this?”

Trish laughed at their awkwardness, her eyes gleaming with mirth.

Chapter Fourteen

A knock on the door interrupted anyone from making suggestions, and Stern went to see who it was. “Oh, Jon, Nicole. We didn’t know it was that late, already.”

“Should we come back?” Jon asked with a knowing grin.

“Actually, we were probably going to grab some breakfast,” Stern said, stepping aside. “Come on in.”

“Thank you,” Nicole said. “Good morning to you all.”

“It is a good morning,” Trish said, giving Cammie a squeeze. “Stern, go see about breakfast. We’ll drag all our gear out.”

“Got it,” Stern said before leaving the room.

“I’ll go get ours,” Jon told Nicole.

“How are you all today?” Nicole asked. She went over to join them and looked down at Cyra on the floor. “Umm... are you okay?”

“Yes,” Cyra said before getting to her feet. “We’ll be right back.”

They all went to gather their gear, leaving Nicole with Pawly. The fluffy cat meowed, then wiggled across the table closer to her. Nicole laughed and began to pet her. She’d always wanted a cat as a child, but her parents had refused. Thoughts of her parents made Nicole cringe, as if waiting to be hit.

Pawly meowed again when Nicole’s hand stopped. She grabbed her wrist with her front paws, then gently kicked Nicole’s arm with her back legs once.

Nicole jerked a little, looking down at Pawly. “Sorry… Memories. You’re so pretty... so soft, fluffy, and kind. Completely different than when we run. There, you’re a fierce hunter, protecting us.”

Pawly purred, giving Nicole’s arm another gentle kick.

“Oh? Are you a fierce hunter now, too?” Nicole giggled, wiggling her fingers into Pawly’s thick fur.

Purring louder, Pawly mock-wrestled with Nicole’s arm. If Nicole had paid attention to her eyes, she would’ve seen Pawly watching her closely, but the woman was focused only on her fur and grapple.

~*~*~

Stern exhaled as he left the room. He felt elated that things might work out, but part of him was deeply worried. It was possible that adding Cammie would hurt his relationship with Trish and Cyra or, after a month or two, Cammie would leave, finding it a mistake to try being more. Those worries dug into him as he went downstairs.

“Stern! Heard you brought people out again,” Sarah called to him.

Stern startled slightly, then gave her a smile. “Yeah. One of them is already in the process of being reborn. Going in tomorrow?”

“No, the day after. We had a terrible time in the woods. We’re taking today and tomorrow to get everything in order. Luckily, the payoff for the boss was good. Should be able to replace the gear we lost.”

“Hmm... Care to pull a shard when you go in?” Stern asked.

“For you?”

“We pulled three yesterday. Two of them helped two people begin their rebirth, but the third was one of the last two for a Walker. Just think that, if you pull his shard, he’d have his own rebirth.”

Sarah looked at her crew. The majority of them nodded, murmuring that they would. The largest person at the table looked unhappy.

“You paying?” Blake, the large man, asked bluntly.

“He overpaid us before for pulling a single shard. One that Rescue Squad will pay us to pull is enough,” Sarah said sharply.

“They would pay you to pull the shard,” Stern agreed. His hand went to the slot on his belt, pulling a coin and tossing it to Blake. “But I’ll add to it. Max Pellant is the man missing his last shard.”

Blake caught the coin and looked at the small silver gleaming in his hand. “Oh... uh... Thanks.”

“For the crew,” Stern said, meeting his gaze. “Get your gear in order. Pull the shard… barring you needing to get others. If you can’t because of complications, that’s fine. I know your crew will if they can.”

“Of course, we will,” Sarah said, her hand darting out to snatch the coin from Blake. “You doing gear repairs today?”

“Yeah. Probably have to go pick up a few pieces, too. Then, we’ll take a few days to decompress before we head off to Goldwood. I always say a little downtime before and after is the best way.”

“We’ll likely do the same,” Sarah smiled. “Whatever it takes to be at our best.”

“That’s the way to ensure the best odds,” Stern nodded. “I’m supposed to be grabbing breakfast, so excuse me.”

“Of course,” Sarah nodded. “Tell the others hello for us.”

“Will do.”

As Stern turned away, he still felt a little disconnected. The complete lack of emotions from the table had made him uncomfortable, but he also loved it.

“He’s always shown he cares for every fractured,” Sarah said tightly. “Blake, you need to work on your…!”

Stern got far enough away that he lost the conversation, but he smiled. He liked Sarah and her crew, they were what his father called, “the good ones.” They were people who understood the call to rescue shards. Maybe this will help push them a little to pull a shard every time? he thought as he reached the bar.

“How can I help you?” the bartender asked.

“Breakfast for six, please?”

“Of course. It’ll be a little while. I can have it taken up to your room, if you’d like.”

“I can wait for it. It’s gear day, so we have time.”

The bartender had called out his order into the kitchen, but now turned back to Stern. “Your crew was the one who pulled the shards out yesterday? I don’t know any other irregular in a crew, but I could be wrong.”

“We have two,” Stern said, “and yes, we did pull shards yesterday.”

“Going to see them when it’s time?”

“We’ll head over when it’s about time,” Stern said.

“Good. That’s the way it should be,” the bartender said, obviously relaxing more. “Dad stopped after his rebirth, but he always spoke well of the Walkers who were there for him when he was reborn.”

“Sometimes, family is there, sometimes not. It’s especially important when there isn’t. It gives them something to help focus on,” Stern said softly. “Your mother was there for him?”

“No. That was before he met her,” the bartender chuckled. “This was his hometown, but he fractured higher than here. When he came back, he met her.”

“How did he end up running this place?” Stern asked.

“Old owner passed and the daughter didn’t want it, so Dad bought it from her. Or so I’m told. I wasn’t even a gleam in his eye back then. It was when he started running this place that he met Mom. Hired her as the cook, then… well… you know how it goes.”

Stern chuckled, having started to understand how people who shared close quarters might grow attached to each other. “Yeah, I actually do.”

“Thought you might. Your crew seemed close, much closer than others. Wasn’t sure which of them it was until the redhead asked for the bath for three of you.” The bartender chuckled. “Lucky man.”

“More than many others,” Stern said. “When you add in my… well… I can’t even begin to guess at how lucky.”

“There’s a fair truth to that,” the bartender said. “Seen a few irregulars in my time. Went to school with one, poor kid. He had a terrible time of it. Truth be told, I was as bad as the others in class. I learned later that irregulars are just people who have a harder life than others.”

“If more would think that way, it would be nice,” Stern said.

“Way of the world, isn’t it? If only people were nicer, things would be better all around.”

“Fair enough,” Stern agreed.

~*~*~

Stern had to kick the door to knock, his hands being full. Cyra opened it for him a few moments later. “Thanks,” Stern said. “We have three or so hours before we need to go to the temple.”

“To be there for the rebirth,” Nicole said softly. “Good. We’d hoped you would do that.”

“We do, but we know some crews don’t,” Trish said.

“Sometimes, it’s painful,” Cammie said.

“It can be a good thing,” Jon said. “We’ve been to one before. On the final run with our prior crew, we pulled a last shard. The woman had no one there for her but us. Us and the crew leader... the others didn’t want to go.”

“She was so grateful to have someone there,” Nicole added as they all sat at the table for breakfast. “Knowing that someone cares enough to be there for you… I could see how moved she was.”

“Been there when it’s just us or with family and friends,” Stern said. “It’s always good.”

“After eating, we’ll do a quick check,” Trish said as she took her plate. “See if we have to replace anything now. Jon’s shield needs to be replaced, at least.”

“That could’ve been terrible for us,” Jon exhaled. “I’d checked it before the run, too. I hadn’t seen any cracks.”

“Having two hundred or more pounds slam into it might’ve just been too much,” Stern said. “Angled just wrong, or sheer weight and speed.”

Pawly let out an unhappy sound, looking at Stern.

“I wasn’t talking about you,” Stern laughed.

Cyra giggled. “Still holding a grudge, Pawly?”

“What?” Cammie asked.

“It goes back to her being able to be bigger,” Stern said between bites. “I’ll talk about it while we check our gear.”

“I’ll be interested to hear this,” Nicole said.

Pawly huffed as she continued eating.

~*~*~

The group was laughing as they got ready to leave. Pawly plopped down on the sofa, not looking at any of them.

“It’s all muscle and fluff,” Cyra giggled, shifting over to pet Pawly once again. “None of us think you’re fat.”

Pawly huffed.

“Diva,” Trish laughed. “We all know you are a mighty hunter.”

“Fierce hunter,” Cammie nodded.

“Loving friend?” Nicole asked.

Pawly turned to look at Nicole, then purred and wiggled around so her belly was exposed.

“Better be nice to her, furball,” Stern said.

Nicole petted Pawly’s belly twice. “Thank you.”

“I think we’re good to go,” Jon chuckled. “Your cat is more of a character than some people I’ve met.”

“She’s unique,” Stern smiled. “We’ll be back, Pawly.”

“Thank you,” Nicole said as they left the room, “for taking us on. You’re all nice people, but Pawly and Zasha make it even better.”

“She’s always wanted a pet,” Jon said softly, taking Nicole’s hand.

“My parents…” Nicole trailed off, clearly uncomfortable.

“If you want to tell us, we’ll listen,” Cyra said softly. “You heard most of our story last night. If you don’t want to, that’s fine, too, for both of you.”

“She’s right,” Trish added. “It’s up to you to decide if or when you’re comfortable and want to.”

“We understand that not everything is something you want people to know,” Stern said. “I still have a secret that only Cyra and Trish know that deals with my family. I’ve tried to not let it get out.” He glanced at Cammie. “I need to tell you tonight.”

Cammie gave him a soft smile. “Okay.”

“Got to get you on even footing with us,” Trish said, bumping her hip into Cammie.

“Slowly,” Cyra giggled when Cammie flushed.

“Wait… did…?” Nicole started, but trailed off quickly.

“Stern asked us to marry him last night, as you know,” Trish grinned, “but, this morning, we asked Cammie if she’d like to join our relationship, with a possible marriage in the future.”

Stern and Cammie were blushing, not expecting it to be broadcast the way Trish just did.

“Ah... that’s unexpected,” Jon said slowly.

“Nothing will change for the crew as a whole,” Trish said. “Just for us personally.”

“It’s sweet,” Nicole whispered. “It’s clear there’s affection between you all. I hope it works out.”

“So do we,” Cyra smiled.

Stern glanced at Cammie, who gave him a timid smile. He went to her side, taking her hand. “So do we.”

“Yes,” Cammie’s face was bright red, but she was beaming.

Chapter Fifteen

The rebirth finished, and Jay Pez was helped down from the altar. The sisters spoke with him before leading him up to the group.

“Your saviors,” the acolyte told Jay.

“Thank you,” Jay said. The middle-aged man looked haggard, which was unusual for someone who’d just been reborn. “Not surprised no one else is here for me.”

“Why?” Cyra asked.

“My crew and I didn’t exactly see eye to eye,” Jay snorted. “How long has it been?”

“Eight years,” Stern said.

Jay inhaled slowly, the news of the wait shocking him. “Oh... I’d thought maybe a year…”

“When crews fight, it’s terrible,” Trish said, “but them leaving you fractured for so long is worse.”

“Yeah...” he sighed. “Might have deserved it, though.”

Stern was very glad he had control of his empathy now— he was sure Jay’s emotions would’ve been hard to suppress. “What happened?”

“Long story short, I might have slept with both of their wives,” Jay said, looking away from the group.

“What?” Cammie asked.

“The bulwark’s and trap finder’s wives were both casters and in the crew with us. Well... we’d just finished our second run of the dungeon here and were all drinking a lot. When it was time for bed, both of the guys were passed out. The women were… getting handsy, and I didn’t stop them. The next day, they acted like nothing had happened, and I was all for letting that night be forgotten. I felt a little bad about it, but a couple of days went by without issue. When we started our third run… well… Mich yelled at Amy,” he exhaled noisily. “The fight escalated, and she said that at least I was a decent fuck, unlike him. It spiraled from there, and when Leo jumped in to berate me and defend Mich… Liz jumped to Amy’s defense, and the fact that I’d had a threesome with them came out.”

Jon shook his head. “That’s disgusting.”

Jay snorted. “I know. Should’ve turned them down when they tried, especially considering the problems they’d had with their husbands. I could try to blame the whiskey, but it was because really I didn’t stop them. Anyway, when we got to the boss, Mich didn’t use his normal perk to keep it focused on him. It went for their wives. Maybe he was trying to scare them? I don’t know. I took the brunt of the attack for them. I was down and bleeding as the fight went on... there was a lot of screaming and name-calling as I died…”

“They’re equally to blame,” Nicole whispered. “It wasn’t just your fault. They could’ve just gone to bed or not blurted out their infidelity when they did.”

“You died protecting your crew. Even if it was a bad crew, it was still a crew,” Stern said. “In the end, you did the right thing, even if they didn’t.”

Jay shook his head. “Thank you for pulling my shards. Guess I’ll go retire and try to find normal work.”

They were shaking hands with him, wishing him well, when someone came rushing into the temple. “Jay?!”

Everyone turned to face the infernal woman, who had a touch of gray in her hair. She was clearly hopeful as she stopped just inside the door.

“Amy?” Jay asked in surprise.

“Sorry... I was working. I just got off,” Amy said, brushing at her skirts. “Uh... welcome back. I…”

Jay took a deep breath. “The crew broke, then?”

“Yes. I had Liz’s shards pulled out last year. We’d both been saving up to go increase your shards to get you out, too.” Amy took a few steps toward him. “I’m sorry.” She looked up, tears streaming from her eyes. “I’m so sorry...”

Jay exhaled noisily. “They left you both?”

“In a way... Mich admitted to trying to get the boss to kill us. When I went to try to help you, he attacked. Liz and I panicked and tried to run, but Leo killed her before she could get to the orb. When I came out of the dungeon, I ran to the guard. Mich and Leo were arrested, and they were both condemned.”

“Shit...” Jay whispered.

“Liz and I... we’d like to give you a hand. You didn’t have to save us when you did. We felt bad for using you like we did, and then the fight… Please?”

Jay looked down and sighed. “Okay, but only until I get my feet under me.”

“Yes, of course,” Amy sniffled, a smile trying to stay in place. She looked at the group. “Thank you... Thank you for bringing him out. I brought the extra coin with me so I could—”

“Keep it,” Stern said gently. “Use it to help him.”

Amy nodded as she stepped closer to Jay. “Are you ready?”

“I want to go by the Walkers’ hall first,” Jay said. “I want to officially close that portion of my life.”

“Of course,” Amy nodded. “I’ll take you.”

The group watched the two leave.

“A little torn on that,” Jon said. “The cheating and fighting were awful… but…”

“She came back for him,” Nicole whispered. “That’s good.”

“Excuse me, Walkers,” the acolyte said, approaching them. “We’ll be starting the next rebirth. Will you be back tomorrow?”

“We will,” Stern said. “Thank you and your fellow sisters for your work.”

The acolyte smiled softly. “We do the Goddess’ work. Have a good day, and thank you for also doing her work.”

As they left the temple, Trish let out a deep breath. “Okay, I’m going to get the leather we need to see about upgrading Nicole’s armor to match yours. I’ll make sure to grab the items Jon asked for so he can make sure our edged weapons are in the best condition, too.”

“Jon and I will go see about a new shield,” Stern said. “Meet back at the inn?”

“We’ll see you there, lover,” Trish grinned.

Jon kissed Nicole’s cheek. “We’ll be back soon.”

“They’ll keep me safe,” Nicole replied, kissing his cheek back.

After walking for a while, Jon glanced at Stern. “I’m a bit curious. How will you manage? Two seems like a big task, but three women?”

Stern chuckled. “Funnily enough, my father has three wives. I’m sure he’ll be laughing his ass off when he finds out.”

“Ah, so you know how much work it is.”

“Every relationship is work,” Stern said. “I have a huge advantage in being able to feel their emotions. That’ll make it easier for us to stop major problems. Even with that, I do worry about keeping them all happy.”

“I worry about that with just Nicole,” Jon snorted. “Thank you, by the way. I know I was kind of a dick when we approached you. Normally, people are excited about having us until they know more about Nicole. It hurts her every time.”

“We won’t,” Stern said. “I understand some of what she’s dealt with, considering our conditions. I’m curious, though, about how you two met.”

“I was working at a shop in Bloodstone, getting experience with an uncle. Father insisted I go to learn and be away from home. I was supposed to run the first three dungeons, too, but had been putting it off for a few years. Then, she came into the shop…” Jon trailed off, a distant look in his eyes.

“First time you saw her?” Stern asked after a moment.

“Didn’t see her. She was huddled in a cloak and wearing a sack with eye holes on her head,” Jon said. “She’d come in to find out how much it would cost for a staff. I was intrigued and began to explain the differences while trying to learn why she was dressed like she was. She was going to be joining the new class when it started later that month. It took a bit, but I found out she had barely anything to her name, but she knew she’d need a weapon.”

“Smart woman,” Stern murmured.

“I saw her pale skin. She didn’t wear gloves back then. It shocked me, and when I asked about it, she ran out of the shop.” Jon snorted as he recalled the moment. “That did it… I was hooked. I went to my uncle and told him it was time. I enrolled in the same class, and brought a staff with me.”

“Now that’s sweet,” Stern chuckled.

“She was shocked, but accepted my kindness. That started our journey together.”

“I think there’s more, but this is the shop,” Stern said. “Let’s pick up a shield and head back.”

~*~*~

There were no more conversations about Jon and Nicole during their brief shopping trip, gear maintenance, or over dinner. Trish suggested Stern take Cammie aside after dinner and discuss his family with her.

With dinner done, Stern went with Cammie to her room, not wanting to tell Jon and Nicole yet. It felt awkward, and Cammie was a mix of hope, lust, and sadness. Stern could understand her emotions.

“Just going to tell you about my family. There’s not going to be… more. Not tonight,” Stern said gently.

“I know,” Cammie said. “I also know you can feel my emotions, so you understand.”

“I do, which is why this is awkward,” Stern chuckled nervously.

“A little,” Cammie agreed. She took a seat on the edge of her bed. “Okay. Go ahead.”

Stern exhaled slowly, sitting in the single chair the room had. “Might as well ease into it. You know my family is rich and or powerful enough to arrange for your mother to be retrieved.”

“It was shocking, but yes.” Cammie was all soft love as she stared at him; she was very grateful to him.

“This is always harder than it needs to be...” he exhaled. “My family is entwined with the Rescue Squad. It’s why I insist on pulling shards. It’s who they are, and who I always wanted to be.”

“I agree with it. You know why my brother and I became Walkers.”

“Yes. Uh... okay... My father is Seamus Masterson, head of Rescue Squad. My birth mother is Stacia Masterson.”

Cammie stared at him, her eyes slowly widening. “That’s why… you’ve spoken with all of Darkhand before…? They’re your parents?”

“Yes. Sorry for keeping it from you,” Stern said.

“It all makes sense now. Why the Hand of Law went to Bloodstone, and why my mother was retrieved so easily... You asked your family to pull her out?”

“I asked them to arrange it. It’s the only request I’ve made to them in the last year.”

“For… me…?”

“For you and Vulk,” Stern said softly. “After what happened with Bloodcoin… I wanted Vulk to have the chance to stop. It worried us… that you might stop, too.”

Cammie shook her head slowly. “You wanted to be your own person... all the money you paid us to get shards?”

“They made sure we all had money and told us we could follow our hearts. My heart was set on getting to the Goddess to find out why she cursed me. They made sure I had coin to make my life easier, but also to help me pull shards, and for my crew to be compensated for doing it.”

Cammie stared at him for a long moment. “You... still…? Me?”

“I know what you feel, what they feel, and I’m hopeful. You’ve been a great friend, open and willing to see me as a person from that first day. Finding out you… might want more… well, that was a bit shocking to me.”

“You’re a good man,” Cammie whispered. “Such a good man... Thank you for giving me this chance to be with you all, and for telling me.”

“If you want to be with us, you need to know, especially if this works out. We’ll eventually be meeting my parents.”

Cammie’s eyes shot wide open. “We will?! When?!”

“In time,” Stern laughed. “Calm down. I hope that you’ll all be equal by then so I can proudly declare all of you.”

Cammie’s heart melted. Licking her lips, she stood suddenly. She crossed over to him, stopping just short of the chair. “Can I… kiss you?”

Stern gave her a soft smile, glad that Trish had told him hugs and kisses would be okay. Cyra had agreed, erasing any doubt. He opened his arms and Cammie stepped into them. She ended up straddling his leg and, with him seated, they were nearly the same height.

Cammie’s heart raced as she leaned into him. Her hope and lust flared when she closed her eyes and kissed him. Stern’s heart was racing just as much as her emotions hammered into him. His own emotions had been the same, if not as intense, so they meshed in unison as their lips met for the first time.

It was tender and sweet, a moment of gentleness as the two awkward lovers wanted to savor the moment. They broke the kiss and restarted it a few times over the next couple of minutes. It never grew fevered, never demanding, always gentle.

A knock came on the door, and Cammie went to pull away, but Stern held her to him. She looked down to find him smiling at her. The door cracked open, and Cyra’s head appeared around it. Seeing them together, she smiled brightly and slipped in, with Trish following her.

“Umm...!” Cammie swallowed.

“Easy,” Stern whispered. “They just wanted to kiss you goodnight, too.”

“Oh…” The word was relieved, but had a twinge of regret, as well.

“We don’t move that fast,” Trish chuckled. “Tomorrow, after training, Stern’s going to take you on a date, just you and him. The day after that, you’ll get to go out with Cyra and I. We want to make sure you’re comfortable with all of us. If that goes well, when we get to Goldwood, maybe we can see about something more.”

Cammie’s breath caught, and she began to nod vigorously. “Okay.”

Stern let her go, standing up. “Good night, Cammie. See you for training tomorrow.”

“Night,” Cammie said, but suddenly Trish had her in her arms. “Uh... night?”

Trish chuckled before she dipped the dwarf, kissing her soundly. When she stood back up, they were both a little red in the face. “Night, lover.”

Cyra giggled, slapping Trish’s arm lightly. “Terrible.” With a hopeful smile, she approached Cammie. “May I?”

“Please?”

Cyra beamed as she hugged Cammie, then pulled back enough to kiss her lightly. “We’re all different. Hopefully, you like that as much as we do.”

“Yes,” Cammie smiled softly, then leaned in and gently kissed Cyra. “Thank you.”

Cyra was beaming. “Good night. Training and a date. Tomorrow will be a busy day for you.”

“It’ll be a good... no, a great day.” Cammie felt like she was floating in pure happiness.

With one more round of goodbyes, they left her alone. Cammie giggled happily as she started to get ready for bed.

Chapter Sixteen

Cyra and Trish were happy all night, giving him ideas for a date he could take Cammie on. Their enthusiasm helped calm any lingering doubts he had at the time. But now, at breakfast, Stern felt awkward again. Cammie kept glancing at him, blushing and smiling, making him do the same.

After breakfast, they’d gone to the dojo to train, minus Trish. She stayed behind, needing to work to get Nicole’s armor finished. The receptionist at the dojo was happy to take Stern’s money and give them a room rental for a few hours.

Once they were in the room, Stern exhaled. “We start with stretching. These are the ones we do every morning if possible, and always on the morning of a run. The trick here is to not push too hard. You want to push until you just start to feel the muscle stretch, then hold and release. If you push when you feel it, you’ll probably strain your muscle.”

“I’ll do my best,” Nicole said as she set her cloak aside. It was the first time they’d seen her without it. She was built like Stern; pale thinness that made her look nearly skeletal. None of them were exactly surprised, having been around him for so long.

Jon glanced at the others, then relaxed when he saw they weren’t gawking. He silently chastised himself for falling into old habits.

“We start with our legs,” Stern said.

~*~*~

No one strained anything during stretching, letting them push forward to sparring quickly. Cyra took Nicole aside to work with her on the basics, including falling.

“We’re going to work on boxing now. It’s a habit from Vulk,” Stern chuckled. “After that, we move onto mixed combat.”

“I know boxing and a few other unarmed forms,” Jon said. “I’m not a master, but I can normally hold my own.”

“I’ll go first,” Cammie grinned as she put on the padded gloves. “We have Cyra so we can patch up any accidents, but I doubt it’ll happen.”

Jon nodded slowly as he put the gloves on. He wasn’t against sparring with Cammie, but he was worried about her being shorter than him— she wouldn’t be going for his face so much as his body. “Got it. Rules?”

“Standard training rules,” Stern said. “The one not fighting will officiate.”

“Understood.” Jon finished getting his gloves on, then threw a two-jab combo. “Haven’t done this since the academy.”

“I’ll push you hard,” Cammie grinned. “Best way to learn.”

Jon nodded, pulling his hands up.

“Okay, on my signal,” Stern said, moving between them.

~*~*~

Nicole was on the mat, panting as she gulped air. “I think... I’m done.”

Cyra took a seat beside her. “That’s fine. How do you feel?”

“Drained. I don’t think I’ve ever worked that hard.”

“You did well,” Cyra smiled as she pulled her canteen over. “Have a drink, but sip.”

Nicole did, then glanced at the other three. When Cammie darted in low, Nicole winced. Jon got his shield down, but he wasn’t prepared when Cammie shifted, then kicked his blocking shield. Jon went stumbling back— Cammie’s legs were built strong.

She didn’t give him a chance to recover, either; she followed him, intent on ending it. Her twin training axes flashed time and again. Jon did his best to defend, but being pressed and off-balance, he stumbled again. When she stepped down on his shield, pinning it down, Stern called the match.

“Damn,” Jon panted, looking up at Cammie. “You kick like a mule.”

Cammie laughed. “My brother always says that, too.”

“She’s got powerful legs,” Stern agreed. “Kickboxing her, like you felt earlier, is not ideal.”

“I didn’t expect her to kick my shield there, either,” Jon admitted as he sat up. Seeing his wife looking his way, he flushed. “Maybe we should stop?”

“Nope,” Stern said. “One more round. Cammie versus me.”

Cammie backed off, spinning her axes over the backs of her hands. “Good for me.”

Jon got to his feet and took off the shield. “Let me set these aside.” He was back a moment later between the pair. “Long knives against hand axes?” he shook his head. “This is going to be a close fight.”

“I have reach, but she’s well under my normal attacking range,” Stern said. “I honestly give her an edge.”

“Since you’ve pushed me to adapt,” Cammie grinned. “Come on, lanky. Time to timber.”

Cyra giggled. “Careful, Cammie. You know he can be tricky.”

Nicole watched as the pair clashed. She was surprised at how aggressive they were, knowing they were going on a date later. “Are they always so intense?” she asked Cyra in a whisper.

“Yes. Stern has a saying: ‘train as you’ll fight.’ Normally, we’d bring armor and wear it, to get used to how it feels when fighting, but we’re going light today.”

Nicole exhaled slowly. “Because of me?”

“We like easy days sometimes, too,” Cyra smiled. “So not just you, but yes. He went easy on me at first, too.”

“It’s nice to see other people who love someone like me,” Nicole said softly.

“I feel so lucky,” Cyra giggled. “I have two people who love me, and now, maybe a third. It’s wonderful.”

“I can’t even begin to think what that would be like. Jon is all I can imagine needing or wanting, but the idea of more love is nice.”

“You two are so cute together. It’s obvious you’re the center of his world.”

“As he is mine. I felt so bad about his family…” Nicole trailed off, thinking back to that day.

Cyra touched her hand. “If or when, we’ll be here to listen. I figured out that family can mean those you want in your life, not just blood related.”

Nicole’s lips twitched up. “Maybe. Oh, she’s going to win.”

Stern grimaced when Cammie got his left leg. He dropped to kneel and tried to spin with her, but he wasn’t able to move fast enough. When her axe tapped his neck, he fell forward.

Cammie thrust her weapons over her head. “I am victorious!”

Cyra laughed, clapping for her.

“Winner is Cammie,” Jon laughed. “You okay, Stern?”

“She checked it,” Stern said as he hefted himself off the floor. “Okay, time to go clean up.”

Cammie was beaming. “And then someone was taking me out?”

“And then, our date,” Stern agreed, meeting her smile with his own.

“Weird,” Jon chuckled.

“But cute,” Nicole said, getting up.

“Agreed,” Cyra giggled.

~*~*~

Stern took a long, slow, deep breath as he put his jacket on. Nervous... don’t want her to be upset or disappointed. I’d have to be a real asshole to not want this to be as close to perfect as possible. Making sure his jacket was on right, he exhaled slowly one more time.

Stepping out of the room, he was glad that Jon and Nicole weren’t there. He took a seat on one of the sofas and waited. Cyra and Trish had gone with Cammie to bathe and help her get dressed after. The fact that they were all this happy to assist one another helped relax him.

Cammie’s door opening had Stern on his feet instantly. Pawly came out first, meowing as if to make sure he was looking. Trish was the first person out of the room, a smirk on her lips. Cyra came out after her with a wide smile. His lovers stepped to either side of the door, letting him finally see Cammie.

Licking her red lips, Cammie came slowly out of her room. Her eyes darted to him, away, and then back to him. Her nervousness was clear in her actions, and her emotions were high. Her hands brushed at her black dress before she stilled them. The dress had a single shoulder strap that hugged her chest tightly. The sky-blue belt at her waist brought out her eyes, helping the dress transition from figure-tight to loose and flowing to her mid-calf. Blue heels, only an inch high, gave her some height and balanced her outfit.

“You look beautiful,” Stern said, meeting her eyes when she looked his way again. “Shall we?” He offered his hand to her as he moved closer.

Cammie flushed, but took his offered hand. “Please?”

“Don’t stay out too late,” Trish smirked. “And feel free to do everything I would.”

Stern and Cammie both turned red at her words.

“Trish, you’re terrible,” Cyra giggled. “We’ll be in bed before you get home. I promise.”

“That’s a promise I can keep,” Trish laughed.

Stern led Cammie out of the room. “I made sure to arrange dinner. I wasn’t sure what else you’d like to do, though?”

“I’m fine with just the night out with you,” Cammie said softly. “Maybe… a walk through a park?”

“If that’s what you want, we’ll do it,” Stern said.

“Where is dinner?”

“It’s a secret,” Stern murmured as they headed to the taproom.

The room went quiet when Stern led Cammie down the stairs. All eyes looked their way, and Stern was glad his empathy wasn’t all-encompassing right then. When he felt Cammie’s embarrassment and nervousness rise, he patted her hand on his elbow. “I think they’re jealous of me.”

Cammie jerked a little, glancing at him, then to the onlookers. She smiled brightly and lifted her chin a bit more. Feeling her emotions even out, Stern smiled as he led her outside, toward the carriage waiting for them.

The driver gave them a nod. “Sir, as instructed.”

“Thank you,” Stern said, helping Cammie into the open two-person seating space. “You know the way. Also, after the meal, the lady would like to be brought to the best park in the city, if you’re amenable?”

“Of course, sir. I will gladly assist.”

“Thank you,” Stern said, flicking the man a coin. “For you, since we’ll be using your services for the majority of the evening.”

Snapping the coin from the air, the driver gave it a look before he pocketed it. “As you say, sir.”

Stern climbed in. “We’re ready.”

A light snap of the reins got the cab moving.

Chapter Seventeen

The restaurant wasn’t the Goddess’ Delight, but it was the best the city had to offer. Stern helped Cammie down from the cab. “Dinner will take a while, but I believe they have a place to wait in the back,” Stern told the driver. “Your meal will be placed on my bill.”

The driver sat up straighter. “Are you sure, sir?”

“Easiest way to make sure you’re here for when we leave,” Stern said as he offered Cammie his hand. “See you after dinner.”

“Yes, sir,” the driver said, a little shocked, but eager to agree.

Cammie felt a little out of place as they entered Joyful Feast. The décor was as rich as the restaurant they’d gone to when her mother came back. This one was far fancier than any place she’d been to besides that one.

The smiling woman behind the podium waited for them to approach. “Good evening. Welcome to Joyful Feast. Do you have a reservation?”

“Stern, party of two,” Stern replied.

“Ah, yes,” she nodded, making a mark on the schedule in front of her. Reaching backward, she tugged on a golden cord. “Your server tonight is Griselda. If you have any requests, she will take care of it for you.”

Stern thanked her, then glanced at Cammie. “Are you okay?” he asked softly.

“I feel out of place here,” Cammie murmured back. “This is all too…”

“Dim compared to you, I know,” Stern whispered. “It was the best I could do to find a place I think was deserving of you.”

Cammie flushed, her hand tightening on his. “Please don’t lie.”

“I’m not. I think you’re gorgeous. Maybe you disagree with me, but I’m right.”

Cammie turned even redder, but a smile touched her lips.

“Stern?” a woman called to them.

“Yes?” Stern glanced up to see a dwarven woman in a uniform waiting for them.

“I’m your server tonight. My name is Griselda. If you’ll follow me?”

“Of course. The driver is pulling around back. If you can make sure he’s cared for during our meal, please?”

“Of course, sir,” Griselda smiled.

As they followed Griselda, Stern gave Cammie’s hand a light squeeze. She yanked her gaze off the silk tapestries they were passing to him. “I’m still correct.”

Cammie went red again, but her smile grew. “Okay... I won’t fight your view of me.”

They were escorted into an intimate room— a table for two, with soft candle lighting. There was enough room for the server to move around them, but it was obviously set up for a romantic dinner. Stern seated Cammie before taking his own seat.

“We have a choice of entrée tonight, with the rest of dinner being paired around it,” Griselda said. “The first option is braised bunnicorn. It is succulent, tender, and delicious. Our second option is a flathead salmon, grilled with herbs. It’s a favorite of our regulars.”

Cammie glanced at Stern, silently asking for his opinion.

“I think the bunnicorn would work well. What do you think, Cammie?”

“Yes, please,” Cammie exhaled in relief.

“Very well. I’ll have wine brought out to suit the meal, unless you’d rather something else?”

“Wine is fine,” Cammie said, though she was normally ambivalent about it.

“Very well,” Griselda smiled. “I’ll return with the wine.”

Stern gave Cammie a soft smile as Griselda left the room. “You do look beautiful tonight.”

“I feel silly,” Cammie said softly. “Besides the dinner where you surprised us with mom, I’ve never been one for dressing up. You look very handsome, though. I see what Trish and Cyra meant about how dashing you look.”

“Always felt like a corpse in a suit,” Stern said. “But now, all three women I’m interested in have told me I look good in a suit. Who am I to disagree with their wisdom?”

“Who, indeed?” Cammie giggled.

“Which means you can’t argue with them, either,” Stern grinned. “What did they say when you were dressed?”

Cammie blushed again. “They both complimented me. Cyra called me exquisite, and Trish said I looked delicious.”

“I have to agree with them both,” Stern said, a smirk touching his smile.

“I’m not ready to be delicious...” Cammie whispered.

“That’s fine. I’d rather we enjoy tonight than try to force it.”

Cammie glanced at his eyes. She searched his face for a moment before looking back down at the table again. “I know you’re okay with waiting... but I’m worried that if I make you or them wait… you’ll change your minds.”

“Unlikely,” Stern said. “None of us are that shallow.”

“I didn’t mean—!” Cammie started to quickly reassure him, but cut off when a knock came on the door.

Griselda came in with the wine. “Your meal will be ready shortly,” she announced upon entering.

“Thank you,” Stern told Griselda.

Griselda poured a little wine into Stern’s glass. Stern took the moment to do what his mother always did when they ate at fancy restaurants— he took a deep inhale from the glass, then sipped the barest amount. With a nod, he smiled at Griselda.

She poured for both of them before setting the bottle aside. “I will return quickly.”

When she left, Cammie finished, “I didn’t mean it like it sounded...”

“I know,” Stern said gently. “You’re overthinking. Just breathe, sample the wine, and know that I’m very happy to just be here with you.”

Cammie met his eyes, then closed hers. Taking a few deep breaths, she slowly opened her eyes again. “Thank you. I just worry that I’m going to mess this up.”

“Nothing you do or say will make tonight horrible,” Stern told her. “Because you and I both want to be here. That’s all that matters.”

Cammie smiled, then sipped her wine. Looking at the glass, she licked her lips, then sipped again. “That’s good.”

“It is,” Stern agreed. He set his hand palm up on the table. “Thank you for being here, for continuing on with us.”

Cammie placed her hand in his, her smile widening. “Thank you all for giving me a chance to be more than just a friend.”

Their exchange seemed to relax Cammie, and dinner progressed with both of them smiling the entire time.

~*~*~

With dinner done and paid for, Stern escorted Cammie out of Joyful Feast. The driver was grinning broadly, waiting for them. “I have the perfect place for you, sir.”

“Thank you,” Stern said as he helped Cammie into the cab. “They took care of you?”

“Yes, sir. Thank you, again.”

Stern just waved him off. “The park, please.”

“Of course, sir,” the driver said. He waited for Stern to be seated before he got them moving.

Stern beamed as Cammie snuggled into his side. His arm went over her shoulders naturally, and he let her get as close as she wanted. “Did you enjoy it?”

“It was delicious,” Cammie murmured. “The dessert was even better, and I hadn’t thought that would be possible before it came out.”

“Agreed,” Stern murmured. He bent his head forward, kissing the top of hers. “I’m glad you’re enjoying our night out.”

Cammie’s hand touched his knee gently. “I really am. You make me feel special.”

“You are special, and not just to me.”

“It’s odd,” Cammie whispered, her hand lightly stroking his knee. “The idea of all three of you wanting me...? I’m not special, and I have no right to be accepted by any of you, much less all of you.”

“Special is in the eye of the observer,” Stern chuckled. “To us, you’re special. You could’ve stopped when your brother did. Instead, you came with us because you cared for us, and secretly hoped for more, even.”

Cammie giggled. “Not sure it was very secret.”

“Well, as secret as it could be with me,” Stern said softly.

“Or when I drunkenly told Trish how sexy she was?” Cammie whispered.

“True,” Stern chuckled. “Then, you wanted to cook for us, and all your actions to show how you were equal to all of us on the way here.”

“Was it that obvious?” Cammie asked, her emotions surging with embarrassment.

“Yes, but it was cute, too.”

“I… like being cute for you.”

Stern kissed the top of her head again. “I think you always will be.”

Silence fell between them. It was a comfortable silence as they cuddled in the warm summer night. Stern didn’t react when Cammie’s hand lightly petted his knee— he was happy she felt comfortable enough to do it. After a minute, he began to caress her arm where his hand rested on her.

The driver brought them to a stop at a corner of a park. A clear path started at that corner, wandering into the park. The setting sun cast long shadows as Stern helped Cammie down.

“Sir, if you follow this path and stay with the blue markers, it comes out on the far side,” the driver said. “Should I circle around and wait for you there?”

Stern gave Cammie a questioning look.

“Please?” Cammie asked.

“We’ll be there, but we’ll be taking our time,” Stern said.

“Understood, sir. I will be there when you arrive. You’ve more than compensated me for the evening.”

“We will see you there,” Stern said as he offered Cammie his hand.

Cammie took it, smiling happily as they began a slow walk down the path while the sun set behind them. She felt light as she walked— she’d always wanted to do a sunset walk with a boyfriend. Stern had no idea how perfect the moment was for her, but she was sure he felt her joy.

Stern gave her hand a light squeeze as her happiness grew. “This is nice,” he said softly, watching others walk away as the sun set. “Never thought I’d have a woman in my life. Now, I have three and get to experience moments like this. I’d always thought of my life as cursed before I met Cyra.”

Cammie giggled. That giggle became a chuckle before turning into a full-blown laugh. Stern stopped walking with her as Cammie doubled over, laughing. His eyebrow was up, but all he could feel was deep amusement from the dwarf. After a couple of minutes, Cammie began to calm down.

“Are you okay?”

“Yes,” Cammie gasped as she caught her breath.

“What caused that?”

Cammie giggled again. “You found your lucky rabbit’s foot. Both of them.”

Stern blinked at her, then laughed along with her. It was a terrible joke, but her laughter helped make it funnier. He held his hand out to her again.

Cammie wiped her eyes, removing the few tears that had escaped, before she took his hand. “It was in terrible taste, but it struck me and I couldn’t help it,” she snickered. “I won’t tell her.”

“You should,” Stern smiled. “Cyra will giggle, and Trish will probably fall over like you did.”

The path split ahead of them. Stern checked the marker, keeping them moving down the blue path. Dusk came to the park, darkening as they slowly walked.

Cammie slowed further, then stopped. Stern stopped with her, looking down at her.

Licking her lips, she glanced up. “Kiss me?”

Stern turned, bending as he wrapped his arms around her. Their lips met for a soft, lingering kiss. Both felt happiness as the moment drew out.

That happiness was shattered when coarse laughter filled the quiet night. Stern stood up, turning to face the sound, and saw a few young men coming their way.

“Kissing a kid? That’s just wrong,” the one in front snickered. “I mean, she has to be a kid for your heights to be so off.”

“She ain’t no kid,” another guffawed. “She’s got a nice set of tits.”

“Hey, toots! You want a real man instead of a freak?” the third asked with a leer. “Me and my buddies can fill your needs.”

Cammie’s happiness turned into rage, rage at these idiots for shattering her perfect night. Before she could snap at them, Stern pulled her to his side. “From the look of the jug you’re carrying, I’d say you’ve drunk enough,” he said tightly. “Just leave us alone.”

“What was that, freak?” the third man snarled. “You want us to show her her mistake in choosing you?”

“Stern isn’t a mistake!” Cammie spat.

“Hey now, shorty,” the first man sneered. “Just because you have a daddy issue doesn’t mean you should date someone twice your height.”

Stern began to walk again, holding Cammie to his side. That was bringing them closer to the trio, but he didn’t have much choice in the matter if he wanted to get to their driver. “We’ll be leaving.”

“Freaks should leave,” the second man snorted. “You should stay, babe.”

His hand reached for Cammie’s arm as they went to pass him. Cammie reacted immediately— she grabbed his arm and pivoted, sending the man flying.

“Don’t touch me!” Cammie hissed.

“Oy now, you fucking bitch!” the first man snapped. “If you want a blighted, we wouldn’t touch you anyway!”

The third man’s hand twitched toward his back, and Stern’s fingers and wrist flexed through multiple patterns. A heartbeat later, Zasha— enlarged and stone-plated— appeared in front of the third man. He’d just pulled out a dagger, but froze.

“We’re leaving,” Stern said firmly. “If you continue this, he won’t hold back.”

“Fine, fine. Just leave,” the first said, his face pale as he stared at the massive stone dog.

Zasha growled at the third man, who dropped his dagger and began to back away from the growling dog.

Stern took Cammie’s hand, leading her quickly down the path. Zasha stayed to watch the men before trotting after Stern.

At the next crossroads, Stern paused, exhaling noisily. “Sorry, Cammie.”

Cammie sniffled. “It was so perfect… and then…”

Stern turned to her, going to one knee as he pulled her to him. Holding her tightly, he comforted her. “It’s still a good night, no matter if those idiots interfered. Tonight will always be a bright spot for me because we were together.”

Cammie sniffled, holding him back. “Thank you...”

Zasha came to a stop a few feet away, looking back the way they’d come.

“Thank you, Zasha,” Stern said.

Cammie glanced at the dog. “Thank you... Stern, why him and not Pawly?”

“Zasha has a bigger presence. A giant stone dog inches from your face gets your attention fast. Pawly would have attacked right away, too. She gets very aggressive when I’m upset.”

“Oh...”

“I was upset because they ruined a perfect night,” Stern said gently, then he eased her back a little. “Can we try that again?”

Cammie met his eyes, her lips twitching up slightly. “Should we tempt fate a second time?”

“For you? Always,” Stern said. He pulled her gently back in, kissing her.

Cammie melted into the embrace, kissing him back. Their encounter with the idiots was forgotten in the moment of his love for her. Cammie’s heart beat faster, and she prayed that this night would build until she could stand beside Cyra and Trish as an equal.

Chapter Eighteen

A few days passed; Trish finished modifying armor for Nicole, then joined them for a full day of training. Jon went over all of their weapons, but particularly over every edged weapon, getting them into the best shape he could. Stern made sure their travel gear was looked over as well, along with restocking their salves and other odds and ends.

They were able to be there when the second person they’d pulled shards for was reborn. Doni Durham was an older woman who’d started running dungeons later in life. There was no family there for her, as she’d never married or had children. Her brother lived in Brightstone, so she thanked them and told them she was going to see him.

Cammie went on dates with Cyra and Trish on separate nights. All four of them went on one together, too, boosting both Stern’s and Cammie’s hope that everything would work out. He hadn’t felt any jealousy from her that entire night— only happiness and hope.

Sharp Ears pulled Max Pellant’s other shard out, earning praise for their crew and an emphatic thank you from the reborn man. Stern made sure that all drinks were covered for that celebration at the Walkers’ hall.

With everything ready to go, the crew finally decided to head out. They’d had a feast the night before to celebrate Jon and Nicole joining their crew. Stern was glad that Jon started to relax more. Nicole smiled a lot more over the last week, too, happy that she’d found a group of friends that didn’t disparage her.

~*~*~

Stern let out a deep breath when he got out of bed. “Do you think they were okay last night?” Stern asked Cyra, who was getting dressed.

“Yes. Trish would’ve joined us if something had gone wrong.”

“True... I’m still a little surprised that Cammie asked.”

“I doubt they went all the way,” Cyra giggled. “I’m sure it was more a passionate make-out than actual sex.”

Stern considered that as he got his clothing on, though he had to slam the doors on the images his mind kept trying to supply. “That would make sense. Testing the waters to see if she’s really attracted to women that way?”

“And Trish is a better teacher than I am,” Cyra added. “It would’ve been very awkward if Cammie had asked me.”

“It would’ve been sweet, if hesitant, you mean,” Stern corrected as he strapped his armor over his clothing.

“That does sound better,” Cyra smiled, doing the same. “Though, since we’re going into the wilds, it means no more fun until we reach Goldwood.”

“It’s for the best. I’m sure we’ll be off the roads and questing on the way. We’ll check the boards before we leave.”

“It was good to see Sarah again. Her crew made it through a second run yesterday,” Cyra said, changing the topic.

“Just glad they’re all making it out. They’re a good crew.”

“They’ll be a few days behind us. She said they decided to leave their third runs open. They’re offering those to Rescue Squad.”

“Good for them,” Stern smiled. “I heard snippets from other Walkers about them starting to pull at least one shard out per run to help the fallen. Maybe that will catch on more so people don’t linger as long.”

“That would be nice,” Cyra smiled, too.

The bedroom door opened, making them both turn toward it. Trish wore a wide grin as she shut it behind her. “Good morning to you both,” she said, swiftly collecting kisses from both of them.

“It went okay last night?” Stern asked.

“Fabulous,” Trish wiggled her eyebrows. “Seriously, though, we only had a hot and heavy make-out session. It was about half of what I’d do with you two, but she was… eager.”

“That’s good,” Cyra smiled brightly.

“Yes, it is,” Stern nodded happily. “I worried that she’d not be as interested in either of you, and it would cause a wedge in things.”

“Nope. She’s fine on that count,” Trish smirked. “I have to get armored up so we can head out. Jon was going down to get breakfast sent up, so I’ll be out as soon as I can.”

“I’ll try to make sure Pawly saves you some food,” Stern chuckled. “She slipped out when you came in.”

“You let Pawly stay the night in the room?” Trish asked, a little surprised.

“He summoned her back after… when we were ready for sleep,” Cyra started, then amended her sentence.

Trish snickered. “That makes more sense.”

Stern and Cyra left Trish to finish getting her gear on. Nicole was seated at the table, petting Pawly, who was sprawled out on the table to get affection.

“She loves being the center of attention,” Stern chuckled. “Ready for the journey?”

“Yes. Jon said we’ll be taking quests and not staying on the roads. We did it with the other crews before, but when we traveled without them, we stuck to the roads.”

“Not a bad plan if you have the money,” Stern said. “The quests between cities help keep them safer. If no one clears out the monsters, then swarms and wild bosses happen more frequently. That makes even travel by road uncertain if left long enough.”

“Oh... I had no idea,” Nicole said.

“Good morning,” Cammie said as she came out of her room.

“Good morning,” Cyra beamed back.

“Morning, Cammie,” Stern said, turning to look at her.

Cammie was in her armor and placed her bag by her door. She wore a smile, blushing when she met Stern’s gaze. “Sad to be leaving already, but we have to push on to keep advancing.”

“We do,” Stern agreed. “We’ll have downtime in the next city, though.”

“I’m looking forward to it,” Cammie said, her face reddening a bit more as she sat beside Stern. She reached out to pet Pawly with the other two.

Pawly purred even louder, rolling back and forth slowly to make sure they could all reach her. With her eyes closed and a happy little smile on her feline face, Pawly was very content with the adoration.

Cammie lowered her voice, leaning a little toward Stern, “Thank you. I was worried about things, but Trish helped show me that I had nothing to fear.”

Stern’s face burned as he nodded. “Good.”

“When we reach Goldwood,” Cammie whispered even softer, “I’m hoping that I might... get a night with you?”

Now, his face blazed. He coughed, not looking at the others as he joined them in petting Pawly. “Sure.” His whisper back was nearly a croak.

Cammie giggled, seeing his matching embarrassment and the edges of his smile. “Good. Trish said it’d be okay, but wasn’t sure.”

Stern took his hand from Pawly and placed it on Cammie’s knee. “It is, even if we both look like tomatoes right now.”

Cammie laughed, looking up at him. She glanced over to see Cyra and Nicole watching them, and her face burned brighter. Stern’s was just as red, but he smiled, as things felt good.

~*~*~

Trish was the last to join them for breakfast, but she hadn’t been far behind Jon getting back with their food. Because of that, she didn’t have to worry about Pawly taking all of her breakfast. With that done, they grabbed their bags and headed out of the inn. The staff wished them safe travels, as did the few patrons in the taproom. Stern was smiling happily as they walked over to the Walkers’ hall.

It was quiet inside; most of the people were over at the dungeon already, going in or trying to get added on to a crew to go in. The group went up to the quest board, looking it over. They had a selection to choose from, but only a few that made sense if they were heading to Goldwood.

“They have the dark willow shoot collection quest again,” Cyra pointed out.

“It’s a staple in this area,” Stern said. “Get it. We’ll find some, at least, so might as well have the quest for it.”

“Golden wolves,” Jon said, pointing to another. “Simple kill quest.”

“This one asks for their hides,” Nicole added.

“Get them both,” Stern chuckled. “‘Combo quests,’ as Dad called them, are always worthwhile.”

“We could take the kill quest for mistweavers?” Trish suggested. “We’ll still be in the Mist Wood for a couple of days before it turns into the Gold Wood. Just says to notify the Walkers’ hall.”

“We’ll be killing them, regardless, so we might as well,” Stern said. “That’s four. Should be good there.”

The quests were picked up by the ones who’d spotted them, adding everyone in the crew to them. Stern went to lead his crew out, but someone called out to them.

Stern looked over to see Harriet and Matilda, the twin sisters who manned the desks, standing up. “Yes?”

“Thank you,” Harriet said. “You might’ve helped a few here learn that irregulars are just like everyone else.”

“And for bringing out the two people you did, and inspiring others to start pulling shards,” Matilda added. “That’s huge. Thank you.”

Trish patted his back. “See? Just like I’ve said.”

Stern went pink, but nodded. “Just doing what I think is best. I’m glad people like me and Nicole might be accepted more, but I’m even happier that shards are coming out. Thank you for your hard work keeping the Squad and Walkers running.”

The sisters beamed, waving and wishing them safe travels. A chorus of thanks came back from the crew before Stern started moving again.

As they left the hall behind, Trish went to walk beside Stern as Pawly floated above the group. “You’re walking taller,” she smiled.

“Huh?”

“Their praise has you standing straight,” Trish giggled, then turned serious. “But more than that, ever since you got that perk, you’ve been hunching less. It’s nice to see.”

Stern’s lips pursed as he thought about what she was saying. “I guess I have been... I can’t feel the hate and fear all around me. It doesn’t weigh on me like it used to.”

“Good,” Cyra said, coming up to his other side. “You’re a good man, Stern. You should walk tall, proud of what you do.”

“And we’ll walk proudly beside you,” Cammie added, walking beside Trish. “Or float above you.”

Stern looked up at Pawly. She was floating belly up, her head tilted to look down at him. “You really like flying, don’t you, furball?”

Pawly meowed, wiggling in the air as if nestling into a sofa.

“She’s adorable,” Nicole said from behind them.

“Normally, she’d ask to go home until we left the road,” Stern said, “but ever since she could fly, she’s wanted to be around more often.”

“I’m glad she’s here,” Nicole said, taking Jon’s hand. “Meeting all of you has been a bright spot for me.”

“We do appreciate it, as we’ve said repeatedly,” Jon nodded. “It also gives us hope that, since you found your perk, Nicole might find a similar one to help her, too.”

“Yes,” Nicole said softly, her voice holding all the hope she felt.

“With both of us going into dungeons, it might happen,” Stern said. “We’ve seen a lot of rare perks. This last one with you magnified that.”

“Some of those options were… very unexpected,” Jon agreed.

“To say the least,” Trish snorted. “Iron Mind showing up at all would make that true.”

“There is that,” Jon admitted. “Makes me wonder what the next dungeon will offer up.”

“Me, too,” Stern agreed. He gave the gate guards a nod when he went past.

One of them jerked, their eyes wide as he stared at Stern. “S-safe journey,” he managed with a slight stutter.

“Have a good day,” Nicole said. She pulled her cloak tightly around herself when they went by.

As they walked down the road, Cyra dropped back to walk beside Nicole. “You don’t have to wrap up with us. If anyone gives you trouble, they’d give Stern trouble, too.”

“She’s right,” Trish called back, “and we won’t put up with it. Anyone who gives either of you shit will have to deal with the rest of us.”

“We’ll be heading into the woods shortly, too,” Jon added gently. “It’ll be best to pack the cloak away while we travel through them.”

Nicole exhaled slowly, then unclasped her cloak. “Okay.” She began to fold it to pack away. “Thank you for upgrading my armor, and dyeing it to match yours. It makes me feel even more like a member of the crew.”

“I still think it’s an odd color scheme. It made sense once Stern explained it, but still odd. Doesn’t really help with animals, though.”

“Not as much,” Stern admitted. “When we start finding the humanoid dungeons, it will be more useful.”

“The chance of getting those goes up as we advance,” Jon nodded.

“Thank you for imbuing all of my stored traps, Nicole,” Cammie smiled. “If we use one, we can just make a new one this way.”

“Why did you want four of them to be fire, though?” Nicole asked. “I thought you’d want at least two for ice.”

“Dark willows,” Cammie said. “Fire works best on them. When we top off before going into a dungeon, I’ll want ice to balance out the fire, just in case.”

“That makes sense,” Jon nodded. “Dark willow saplings can be a real nightmare without fire, I’ve heard. Since Nicole has had fire for a long time now, we’ve been safe.”

“If we find any saplings, we’ll be set between Nicole and Cammie’s traps,” Stern agreed.

Both Nicole and Cammie smiled, glad their perks were useful for their crew and friends.

Chapter Nineteen

A week of walking got them out of the Mist Wood and into the Gold Wood. It hadn’t been as difficult as their trip to Mistwood from Whitewater. Nicole’s fire burned webbing and mistweavers with ease— the few times a couple of spiders attacked together, Nicole’s new area perk caught both, decimating their webbing and killing the spiders.

Nicole was beside herself with happiness to be praised as she was, knowing her new friends weren’t just giving her lip service. Jon relaxed more, seeing the clear friendships his wife was starting to build.

The group also found a comfortable balance when they camped for the evenings. Stern was on hunting duty with Pawly. Jon and Nicole would set the camp, getting all the tents put up and digging out the fire pit. Trish and Cammie would gather firewood for the fire and, when Stern brought game back, he and Cammie would prepare it for Cyra and handle any skins they were keeping to sell. Cyra would then cook whatever they gave her, earning her praise from Nicole and Jon after they tasted her meals.

~*~*~

Breaking camp, they were eager to start the day. It would be their first full day in the Gold Wood, and Stern was sure they’d start to see the gold-maned wolves they’d taken the quest for.

“That dark willow sapling was so much easier,” Trish chuckled, thinking back to the monster they’d killed before camping the previous night.

“Between Nicole and Cammie, it was a little sad.” Cyra smiled broadly at them. “Nicole’s Firebolt drove it directly onto Cammie’s trap.”

“And those things go up like bonfires when you can get fire into them,” Jon said. “And you’re sure the scrapings from inside the things are worth the effort we used to get them?”

“Yes. To an alchemist, they are,” Stern said. “The guild will buy it to sell to whoever had the quest up for the shoots.”

“Hmm... our last crew had no idea,” Nicole said slowly. “Cammie’s trap made that fight easier. By myself, it took a lot longer to kill one. Their underside seems vulnerable, since her traps catch them from underneath...”

“Must be a gap there that exposes their interior,” Trish mused.

“Are you all ready for wolves today?” Stern asked. “We might see a loner or two, or we might see some packs.”

“Loners won’t be a problem,” Trish said. “I should get the chance to test out my new perk with a pack.”

“I don’t think they’ll be able to hurt you,” Stern said seriously, “but if they go for the rest of us, it could be a problem.”

“That’s true. I’ll do my best to gather them up. You might need to give me a few seconds if we do find more than one.”

“A good point,” Jon said. “Neither of us have a perk to call enemies to us or punish them for failing to do so.”

“Those are rare perks,” Trish grinned. “There’s always the next dungeon.”

Everyone laughed as they finally got everything set and ready to travel.

~*~*~

“Not a lot to handle today,” Stern said as he finished his food.

“A few shoots and two lone wolves,” Trish nodded. “At least the one wolf was just before we stopped for the night.”

“There is that,” Stern agreed. “Thank you for using ice, Nicole.”

“We want the hides to be as good as they can be,” Nicole smiled. “Fire would ruin them.”

“True, but some people don’t think about that ahead of time.”

“I didn’t,” Cammie said. “Thankfully, we already made one cold trap. If we get a pack, I can use it.”

Nicole smiled at her friends as she leaned against her husband. A warmth had grown in her chest; these four had really embraced her, unlike the other crews or her own family. Her smile dimmed as memories of her family came back.

“Nicole, are you okay?” Cyra asked worriedly.

Blinking back tears, Nicole cleared her throat. “Yes. Sorry... Memories.”

“Unpleasant ones,” Stern said gently. “Sometimes, sharing can help ease the pain. Did you want to talk about it?”

Jon held her a little tighter, wanting to protect her. That eased the worry in Nicole’s chest over sharing her past with her friends. Cyra and Cammie had told their stories to her and Jon— it felt a little wrong to hold her own back simply because it was uncomfortable.

“You don’t have to,” Trish said gently, “but we’re here if you want to. The same is true for you, Jon.”

“My life hasn’t been bad,” Jon said softly, kissing the top of Nicole’s head as she leaned into his side. “It improved when I met Nicole, too.”

“When she walked into your uncle’s shop,” Stern smiled.

Nicole blinked, shocked that Jon had shared that story with Stern. “He told you?”

“That you were heading into the academy while he was learning from his uncle. He joined the academy to be there beside you. Brought you a staff.”

Nicole smiled, her free hand touching the staff beside her. It had clearly seen a lot of use, but was still in good condition. “He brought me a wonderful gift and asked to be my friend.”

“Aww!” Cyra said happily. “How sweet.”

“It was the first nice thing anyone had done for me… for years before that,” Nicole whispered, her fingers stroking the staff. “I grew up in Whitewater… the first child of my family.”

The others listened even as Trish gathered the empty dishes to clean them.

“My earliest memory is from when I was a child... Mother found out she was pregnant again. She and Father were so happy, and I was, too. I looked forward to having a sibling. I hoped they would be my friend… since I didn’t have anyone else.”

Jon’s arm around her tightened slightly, trying to support her as she recounted the pain.

“That’s when my parents, who’d at least acted like they cared for me… stopped acting,” Nicole shivered. “Well, technically, it was when my sister was born that the act stopped. They were so happy to have a ‘normal’ child... I was six years old. All my things that my sister might like were taken away. I was confused, but that was fine. I wanted to make my new sister happy.”

Cyra sniffled, tears welling up in her eyes.

“I’d never really thought about the face coverings my parents made me wear. They just told me I had to, and I was a good girl, so I did what they told me. I didn’t know about my condition, not until I went to school that year…” Nicole trailed off, shuddering.

“I know the pain of school,” Stern said gently.

“Yes, you do,” Nicole sniffled, looking up to meet his eyes. “Your trouble must’ve been as bad or worse... you could feel them. I just heard and saw them. That first week... that was when one of the worst yanked my mask off.”

“Shit...” Trish said sympathetically.

“They all screamed and ran from me… even the teacher. I didn’t understand. I just started crying. They sent one of the acolytes in to get me. The sisters are immune to mental influence… did you know that?”

“Yes,” Stern murmured. “It isn’t talked about much, though. It’s one of their blessings from the Goddess.”

“She was a kind woman with sad eyes, deep blue and filled with sympathy for me in her wrinkled face,” Nicole said, looking back at the fire. “She sat with me, helped me stop crying. Got my mask back on, then explained what had happened.” Nicole swallowed. “That’s when I found out I was a monster, or had a monster perk. ‘Ghastly Visage; it’s a monster! Run! Your face causes fear in all who see it.’ That’s exactly what my perk says.”

“That’s harsh...” Cammie whispered.

“Yes,” Nicole sniffled. “They didn’t let me back into class. The other kids were too afraid of me. My parents were starting to get ostracized, too, because of me... so they tossed me out, like the trash.” Nicole snorted at the old pain and anger. “They took me to the temple, handed me to the acolyte who’d helped me, then left.”

Pawly floated over to Nicole, purring in front of the sniffling woman. Nicole gave Pawly a broken smile, beginning to pet her.

“I tried to follow them, but the sister hugged me from behind, crying as I tried to rush after them. I tired myself out crying and struggling. The next morning, I snuck away from the temple. I went home. Obviously, there’d been a mistake, I’d thought.”

Jon’s arm tightened on her more, his tears dotting the top of her head; he always cried when she got to this part of the story. She sniffled, glancing up to see her four friends also wiping their tears away.

“They found me when they came to get the room ready for my sister. I had crawled into my bed and cuddled my favorite stuffed animal.” Nicole choked as the memory cut her again. “They yelled and screamed at me... Father grabbed me by the hair, dragging me from bed, while my mother cursed me. Their words… were unkind. I was called an abomination, freak, monster... by my own parents.” Her voice broke at the end.

“Assholes,” Stern said tightly. He could imagine the moment all too well. If his parents had been anyone other than who they were, he might’ve been in the same place.

“They really are,” Jon agreed thickly.

“They dragged me back to the temple, and the acolyte who’d helped me before held me while I cried,” Nicole sniffled. “She gave me as much love as she could, but… twelve years later, she passed. The others had come to accept me, but I didn’t want to stay in the temple. I wanted to be free of my curse. My surrogate mother had told me that there might be a perk to help negate this one... so I went to become a Walker.”

Jon kissed her head again, pulling his emotions back under control.

“It was then that I was reminded of how much most people hate and fear us, Stern. The trip down to the starting cities was… unpleasant. The mask my adoptive mother gave me was stolen, and I was forced to wear a bag. When I got there and started to deal with being around people again, I almost fled back to Whitewater’s temple. I might have… if not for Jon.”

“I’m glad you stayed,” Jon murmured, kissing her head again.

“We’ll get you that perk,” Stern said, “even if we have to run every single dungeon. We’ll get you a perk that will help. Together, our natures can bend probability in the shop. The Goddess finally blessed me with the perk I wanted. I’d given up hope for it, and then... there it was.”

“I hope so much...” Nicole whispered. “So much...”

“We should turn in,” Jon said gently. “Come, my love. Let me hold you.”

The others said their goodnights, watching them go.

Chapter Twenty

They didn’t share more history over the following days, but they did have a lot of laughter and happiness. They encountered a few small packs of wolves during their travels— when it was three or less, they didn’t have any trouble. The few times they found four or more, things weren’t as easy.

With the larger groups, Trish would snag two of them, Jon would take one, and Pawly would engage another. Stern would handle a fifth, with it being the first killed. The two times they encountered packs of six or more, Stern swapped Pawly with Zasha. Zasha would bull into the wolves with his stone armor, cause earthquakes, and spit spikes at them, allowing him to hold at least three wolves by himself.

They encountered two more dark willow saplings, too. Cammie’s magically-infused traps slaughtered them with no difficulty for the others. With the saplings and wolves dispatched, the crew managed to make the woods a lot safer.

~*~*~

When they made it back to the roads a few hours outside of Goldwood City, they had a lot to sell off or turn in. All of them were looking forward to baths and food that wasn’t wolf meat. The city came into sight just before noon, getting a ragged cheer from them.

“I can’t wait,” Trish sighed. “Hot water to scrub the dirt, grime, and blood away.”

“Agreed,” Cammie said. “And then, I want cool water to soak in.”

“Summer has been warmer than normal,” Jon said. “My fire resistance perks do nothing to make hot days nicer.”

“If they did, more people would want them,” Stern laughed.

“That’s a good point,” Jon sighed.

“A cold drink, a hot meal, a good bath,” Cyra murmured, “and then… a soft bed.”

“Yes, please,” Nicole said. “A soft bed sounds divine.”

They all had to agree with her. Over two weeks of camping had left them all looking forward to comfort.

“If you guys want to get the rooms and food sorted, I’ll catch up to you,” Stern said. “I’ll turn in the quests and see about selling off the extras.”

“I’ll go with you,” Cammie said. “If you’re going shopping, I can pick up some things.”

“We do need to make sure you have components,” Stern agreed.

“Dinner is hours off yet, but we’ll arrange it,” Trish said. “Don’t stay out too late ‘shopping.’” Trish’s habit of making almost anything sound like an innuendo was firmly on the last word.

Stern chuckled. “We’ll only be shopping for trap parts and selling off monster loot.”

“You’re terrible,” Cyra giggled, nudging Trish.

~*~*~

Stern was glad the guards on the gate didn’t give them a hard time. Then again, having Pawly floating above the group without any of her other perks active might’ve quelled any fears that he was a blighted.

Cammie walked beside him— the top of her head barely reached his sternum, making them a very odd-looking pair. Add in the floating cat with them, and they turned a lot of heads on their way. Stern had opted to go turn in the wolf pelt quest first, so they’d split up from the others just inside the city.

After a block, Stern called out to a patrolling guard, “Sir, I’m looking for Scraped Hides. Which way?”

The guard jerked upon seeing Stern, then pointed the way they’d been headed. “Two more squares that way. You can’t miss it.”

“Thank you.”

“Just stay out of trouble… Is that cat with you?”

“She does what she wants,” Stern said. “Cats are like that.”

The guard snorted. “It’s why sensible people prefer dogs.”

Pawly spun to her feet… well, she pointed her feet downward, since she was still floating. Crouching on nothing, she stared at the guard and wiggled her butt. With an upset meow, she glared at him.

“Hey! Stop her, or I’ll defend myself!”

“Pawly, stop it,” Stern sighed. “Not everyone knows how regal cats are.”

Pawly sneezed, then flopped onto her side before floating off the way they needed to go.

Stern gave the guard an apologetic shrug. “Sorry.”

“If she causes trouble, it’s on your account.”

“Understood, sir,” Stern said before heading off after his cat.

Cammie laughed when they were down the street. “She wouldn’t have actually attacked him, right?”

“Cat... who can say,” Stern chuckled.

“Tanner, alchemist, general store, and then the hall?”

“That was my thought. We’ll take today off, do gear tomorrow, and then go into the dungeon after that.”

“Hmm... that should give me enough time to get the traps set up.”

“You’ve been doing a lot. You and Nicole have really made it easier.”

Cammie smiled, then took his hand in hers. “It’s nice to hear.”

Stern was surprised, but he smiled down at her. “Only the truth.”

“Only the truth, hmm?”

“Best for all of us that way.”

“Could I… have you stop by my room tonight?”

Stern was mildly surprised. He was sure she’d ask while they were in the city, he just hadn’t expected it to be tonight. “If that’s what you want. I don’t want you to feel like you have to rush.”

“Not for… everything. I was thinking more like what Trish and I did.” Hope, lust, and worry mixed in Cammie as she explained.

“I’d like that.”

The worry mostly faded, and her hope and lust surged higher. “Good. After dinner?”

“For the best that way.”

Her hand squeezed his. “I like this... You can still feel me?”

“Yeah. I’m only feeling you three. Well, Pawly and Zasha, too, but that’s it. I don’t have to feel anyone else anymore. It’s been different. I’m sure everyone else around still fears and hates me, but I don’t have to feel it pushing at me anymore.”

“Which explains why you’re smiling more,” Cammie said. “It’s been nice to see.”

“It’s easier to smile. With you three around me, it’s almost impossible to not be happy now.”

“There’s the shop,” Cammie said, her nose wrinkling.

“Tanneries smell,” Stern chuckled. “Come on. The sooner done, the sooner gone.”

“Don’t have to tell me twice,” Cammie said, walking faster.

Pawly flew away from the tannery, obviously wanting to wait where it didn’t smell.

“Go home,” Stern laughed. “I’ll summon you back when we’re done here.”

Pawly chuffed, then faded away.

The interior of the shop was clean, neat, and smelled heavily of pine. The older woman behind the counter smiled when they came in. Her eyes lit up when she saw the stack of skins on top of Stern’s and Cammie’s bags.

“Good!” the woman grinned, her upturned nose speaking of her heritage. “Looks like you found a bunch on the way in.”

“The singles were easy, but the packs were a bit trickier,” Cammie smiled.

“Put them here so I can check them, if you would, please?”

The pair worked together to get the hides onto the counter. The old woman was quick to scan each, nodding as she went. When she finished, she had set a handful of the worst-looking skins aside.

“These are basically scrap, but I can still use parts. I’ll take them, but not as part of the quest.”

“That’s fair,” Stern said. “How much for them? We both know what the others were worth.”

“For these odds and ends? Say... a large copper?”

“Two,” Stern said. “At least two of them were good halves.”

The old woman snorted, her pig-like nose making that impressive. “Fine. Two large.”

“A pleasure,” Stern grinned.

“Been years since I’ve seen an irregular,” the old woman said as she got their money together. “Hard lives seem to follow you.”

“Until people become accustomed to us, it’ll be that way,” Stern shrugged.

She set a small pouch on the counter. “Fair. May the Goddess bless your day.”

“You, as well. Which way is it to Crucible’s Conundrum?”

“Eman’s shop? It’s three north and two east.”

“Thank you,” Stern said. He handed the bag of money to Cammie, who was able to stow it easier.

The pair were out of the shop and a block away when Stern summoned Pawly back with her flying. “See? That didn’t take long.”

Pawly meowed and floated along above them, happy to be back.

Cammie smiled as she walked beside Stern. His trust in her was obvious, but the small gesture of handing her the money still made her happy.

~*~*~

The alchemist’s shop smelled of herbs and chemicals, the way most others did. Eman, the angelic man behind the counter, had white hair and age lines around his eyes. “Welcome to my shop. How can I help you two?”

“We have quest items for you,” Stern said. He quickly untied the sack from Cammie’s bag and placed it on the counter. “Dark willow shoots.”

“Ah, yes. Good. Need those to make the salve.”

“Which we need two tins of, please,” Stern said. “Deduct it from the reward?”

“Gladly,” Eman grinned. “Always nice to deal with those who understand business.”

“We also have something you might be interested in: scrapings from burnt dark willow saplings.”

“I’ll have to check it, but if it’s good quality, then yes, I’d be interested.”

Cammie pulled the small jug from Stern’s bag, placing it on the counter.

“Is it full?” Eman asked in shock.

“Just above half,” Stern said. “Three dark willow saplings in total.”

“Hmm...” Eman finished checking the shoots and set them aside before pulling out a petri dish. “I need a pinch to check.”

“Go ahead. I understand how it works.”

The old angelic uncorked the jug and carefully tipped out a fingernail-sized pile of dust. Corking the jug, he set it aside, then grabbed a vial of something from underneath the counter. After dribbling a few drops into the ash, he watched it. A faint, silver haze rose slowly from the dish a second later.

“Hmm... yes... this will work. I’ll give you a large silver for the jug.”

“A large silver and a large copper. I’ll have to buy a new jug.”

Eman chuckled. “Fine, fine. A large silver and a small silver for scrapings and shoots?”

“That sounds right,” Stern nodded, “if the salve is included.”

The man quickly set the two coins out. “Thank you for the business.” Two small salve tins joined the money. “Anything else?”

“No, we’re good,” Stern said, placing the two coins into his belt slots. Picking up the tins, he slipped them into his hip pouch. “Have a good day.”

“You two, as well.”

Pawly came floating down when they left the shop— she didn’t care for the smell of alchemists.

“Two more stops, then the inn,” Stern told her, petting Pawly.

“I had no idea the scrapings were worth so much,” Cammie said as they started walking again.

“Many don’t, but he’ll turn that jug into at least ten healing potions.”

“Which are worth much more,” Cammie snorted. “Maybe I should’ve become an alchemist.”

“Lots of study for that, plus some perks,” Stern grinned at her, “but if you want to start learning, we can look into some books for you.”

Cammie’s lips pursed as they headed for the general store. The idea of becoming an alchemist had been a flippant thought, but now, she gave it more consideration.

Chapter Twenty-one

By the time they entered the Walkers’ guildhall, it was hours past noon. They’d spent over an hour just in the general store so Cammie could get different components for possible traps. Stern suggested possible items and ideas for traps, and Cammie would either pick those up or explain why it was impractical.

Late afternoon in the Walkers’ Hall meant that it was starting to get busy. Stern led Cammie inside with Pawly floating above them. The noise started dying off, and Stern knew that if he could feel the room, it’d be hostile.

“That’s the freak,” a voice announced into the silence. “One of them, anyway. Where’s the masked freak?”

Stern turned to the speaker who’d stood up. “Brandon, I see you still haven’t learned tolerance.”

“Tolerance? For a blighted freak like you?”

“Damned irregulars are just the spawn of the blighted,” Billy said, joining his friend.

Stern’s face hardened— he was used to people treating him badly, but insulting his parents was something he wouldn’t let stand. “I’m sorry... did you just call one of my parents… blighted?”

“Where else would one of you come from?” Brandon snorted.

Someone in the room stood up. “Sit your damned asses down!” the wolf lykian woman growled.

Everyone turned to look at the woman. Scars marked her face and hands, and she was wearing a patch over her left eye, attesting to the harsh life she’d endured. Her right eye was golden, just like her gold badge with a single mark.

“What?!” Brandon balked. “He’s obviously—!”

The woman was suddenly beside him— it was clear she’d used a perk to do it— her eye narrowed as she stared at him. “I said sit down, but maybe I should’ve said shut up and sit down. Irregulars aren’t blighted spawn.”

“How else would—?” Billy began before he cut off.

The high-tiered Walker had him by the throat. “My sister was an irregular. She tried to have a good life! She did her very fucking best, but she couldn’t take people like you. She died in this fucking dungeon, told her crew to leave her fractured. She’d rather stay fractured until people learned tolerance than keep pushing against the hate!”

“Put him down,” the Walker receptionist said. “We do not condone violence in the hall, Walker. You should know that.”

The woman snarled, letting go of Billy. “I do know, and I wouldn’t have touched him if he wasn’t asking for it!”

Stern was just as shocked as the rest of the hall. He was glad that he couldn’t feel everyone all the time, but he was sure her anger would have sparked him to act, too.

“These two were harassing myself and another in Mistwood,” Stern said, “because of what we are. Do any of you think we wanted this condition? We’re just people born differently than you. Some of us have perks from birth that make our lives even more difficult to deal with.”

“My sister had uncontrolled telepathy,” the wolf lykian said tightly. “If she looked at you, she’d hear your thoughts regardless of if she wanted to or not, so she kept her head down as often as she could. Imagine having to hear the hatred people have for you for just being alive. All she wanted as a Walker was a way to turn that perk off. That’s it... to just not have to hear the hatred you all think.”

“Why are you here now?” another voice called out curiously.

“Because I found out two months ago,” the wolf said, turning toward them. “That was when her crew found me. They heard my name and approached me. I’d never have known, otherwise. She’s been fractured for four years. If I hadn’t been down at the steel cities, dropping off items, I’d never have known...”

“What’s her name?” Cammie asked.

“Maverna Culnand,” the woman said before she choked up. “She just wanted to be free of her problem... That’s all.”

“Freaks deserve to be fractured,” Brandon snorted.

Unfortunately for him, it was quiet enough in the hall for him to be heard. Even more unfortunately, he was still standing beside the wolf lykian. With a howl of rage, she spun, her fist slamming into his jaw. Brandon went down with that one punch, but Billy lunged at the woman. Her knee came up as he did, and Billy grabbed his damaged pride as he crumpled to the floor.

“Stop!” the receptionist snapped. “Detain her!”

Other Walkers stood up and the wolf lykian snarled at them, but she never went to draw the dagger she wore.

“Article five of the Walker rules,” Stern said loudly. “‘No violence shall be given in the hall.’ Miss, please. Stand down.”

All eyes went to Stern, shocked that the gangly man could project the voice he just had.

“We’ll pull her out, but you have to pay for breaking the rules,” Stern said. “She wouldn’t want you to be banned from the halls. Would she?” The last two words were asked with gentleness.

The woman’s shoulders slumped. “I surrender...” she said softly.

Three men took her in hand, marching her toward the stairs that lead up into the offices. She’d be going to see the leader of this hall to be judged for breaking the rules.

“Thank you,” the receptionist said. “Someone, help those two get to the sisters. Also, tell them that they are banned for two days for causing this issue. All Walkers are welcome in the hall. If they run, they belong here. We do not condone the idea of Walkers being left fractured.” She turned her head to face Stern. “Come speak with me, please.”

Cammie and Stern crossed to the receptionist as other Walkers took Brandon and Billy from the hall— a lot of conversation about irregulars and the drama that just took place sprung up.

“Ma’am, we have quests to turn in,” Stern said softly when he reached the desk. “I need to speak with him,” he nodded toward the dwarf at the Rescue Squad desk a few feet from her, “once we finish.”

“Yes, to make sure you’re credited with collecting shards,” the dwarf nodded.

The infernal woman behind the desk nodded. “Sorry for the trouble, Walker. Please, dominant hand.” She held out a pad.

It didn’t take long for Stern to have the money added to their retrieval funds, surprising both receptionists.

Moving over to the dwarf, Stern gave the man a nod. “Shards for Maverna Culnand. How many?”

The dwarf winced as he checked. “Three left.”

“We’ll pull them,” Stern said simply. “What was her sister’s name?”

The dwarf frowned, looking over at the infernal receptionist. “Issa, do you have that information?”

Issa checked her pad for a few moments. “Marvella is the one being seen right now.”

“Thank you,” Stern said softly.

“You’ve pulled that many out?” Issa asked, having checked her pad on him.

“The crew has,” Stern said. “All Walkers should be revived. I believe firmly in the idea behind Rescue Squad.”

The dwarf stood up, offering his hand. “Thank you, I’m Zander. Few at this level feel like that.”

Stern shook the dwarf’s hand. “Stern, leader of Pawsitively Irregular.”

“I wanted to ask,” Issa said, glancing at Pawly. “Summons?”

“My unusual perk from birth, with another perk to give her flight,” Stern smiled. “She’s my oldest friend.”

Zander stared up at Pawly, then began to laugh. The deep belly laugh had others turning to see what caused it. He pointed up at Pawly. “Because of her paws?”

Pawly rolled onto her back and kneaded the air with her extra-large paws so everyone could see them. Laughter spread as those who’d heard the name of the crew passed it along.

“Between me and her, yeah,” Stern said, not feeling sheepish about it anymore. “Bringing some positivity to the idea of irregulars is important to me, and she’s very pawsitive.”

Groans and laughter went through the crowd.

Stern turned to face the room. “I know some of you probably worry that irregulars are abominations, but honestly, we’re just people with unusual perks and unfortunate features.”

“Is it true? That the temples can’t help you?” The voice came out of the crowd, so it was impossible to know who asked it.

“They can’t,” Stern said somberly. “Not even they know why the Goddess has allowed for irregulars.”

“You really going to pull the shards?”

“Yes. My crew has pulled shards from every dungeon since we’ve formed. As I said, I believe in Rescue Squad. I know we all need the gear, but if every group pulled even one shard out each run, in time, it would vastly reduce the number of fractured, maybe even clearing the list. It’s up to you if you want to give back to those who went in before us. If you’ll excuse me, my crew is waiting for us to clean up and join them for dinner.”

“Why waste a perk on the cat?” someone else asked.

Cammie laughed. “Pawly’s not a waste.”

Pawly chuffed as she took a seated position in the air. She looked out over the crowd like a queen surveying her subjects.

Stern turned to Isaa. “She’ll behave, but I’m going to let her have her perks. I’ll revert them before we leave.”

Issa frowned at him, then glanced down at her pad. “Goddess… so many?”

Stern smiled up at Pawly. His fingers and wrists flexed through the patterns, and the collective gasps from the crowd made him chuckle.

Pawly sprawled out in the air again as lightning coursed over her fur and her tentacles waggled.

“She’s a fucking beast...” someone whispered in awe.

“Wish we had something like that in our crew.”

Stern reverted the changes, leaving Pawly floating in the air. “Come on, Pawly. Time for dinner.”

Pawly drifted across the room to the door.

“Dinner? You feed it?”

“Her,” Stern said firmly. “And yes. She’s my oldest friend, so why wouldn’t I?”

“Because she’s a summons.”

“So? She’s still my friend.”

The crowd was confused as Stern and Cammie left. A lot had happened, and everyone had opinions to share, so the noise ramped up once the pair left the hall.

“A quest to pick up shards,” Cammie said as they crossed the street to the inn. “Don’t have to stop by for that now.”

“I hope Marvella doesn’t get punished badly,” Stern said softly. “I almost went after them for suggesting my parents…” He trailed off.

Cammie snorted at the thought. “If they only knew.”

“They probably will in time,” Stern said, “but not yet.”

Cammie glanced at him. “So... after dinner?”

Stern’s mind was yanked from where it was, dragged back to an earlier conversation. His face heated a little. “Umm... yes.”

Cammie took his hand. “Good.”

Chapter Twenty-two

Entering the Slumbering Night, Stern chuckled at the sign above the door. It depicted a face on the surface of the moon, its eyes closed in sleep. “Different. Many use ‘Walker’ in the title. I like it.”

“Weird, but nice,” Cammie said.

The crowd wasn’t large yet, but those inside quieted when they saw Stern. As soon as someone noticed Pawly, they started to laugh.

“The world is doomed. Cats have learned to fly. Nothing is safe,” a woman laughed.

“She even has thumbs,” someone else added upon seeing Pawly’s large paws.

Pawly purred as she rolled in the air, letting her glory be seen.

“Umm, sir? We have rules about pets,” the man behind the bar said.

“Summons,” Stern told him while crossing the room. “My crew should have arranged a room?”

The bartender looked up, then chuckled. “Ah, I understand. The emblem on the badge was a little odd, but now I get it.”

“Get what?” a dwarf asked from down the bar.

“Pawsitively Irregular is the name of my crew,” Stern answered.

The dwarf had been scowling at Stern, but then looked up at Pawly, back to Stern, and laughed. The rest of the inn was soon to follow as the joke made it around.

“They got one of the larger crew suites. Four rooms all with large beds, one of them being… extra-large,” the innkeeper chuckled. “That couple will be very happy with the space.”

Stern didn’t bother to correct the innkeeper about who would be using the largest room. “Did they arrange for baths, too?”

“They did. Two doors are marked as reserved. When you finish, just take the signs down.”

“Thank you. What’s the room number, so we can drop our gear off?”

“Oh, yes. Sorry. Room thirteen, third floor.”

“Thank you,” Cammie said, heading for the stairs.

“Hey, irregular!” a man called out as Stern followed Cammie.

“Yeah?” Stern asked.

“Is it true?”

“I need more than that to go on.”

“That you’re cursed?”

“I felt like I was for years,” Stern said, “but no. Irregulars are just like everyone else. Unfortunately, we look the way we do, but otherwise, we’re just people.”

“Where can I get a flying cat?” the first woman asked.

“Pawly has been with me since birth,” Stern said.

“Wait… ‘Pawly’?”

“My father named her,” Stern sighed. “And yes, Pawly is her name.”

“And your crew is Pawsitively Irregular?”

“Yup.”

The laughter came howling back, the joke even funnier to them now.

Stern shook his head as he walked upstairs. Maybe the name helped me more than I thought... Hard to hate people who make you laugh.

Pawly chuffed, bumping his shoulder with her head as she floated beside him.

He scratched her chin. “Yeah, they all like you. Only an idiot wouldn’t like you.”

Following Cammie into the room, he gave Jon and Nicole a smile. “We have a quest to pull three shards when we go in. I’ll tell you the story after we bathe.”

“That’ll work,” Jon said from where he was snuggling with Nicole on the sofa. “Your wives took that room.” He pointed at a set of double doors. “Largest bed in the suite.”

Cammie flushed as she went toward a different room, but a small hopeful smile adorned her lips. Nicole watched her go with a smile of her own.

“Everything else go okay?” Jon asked.

Stern nodded, then pulled out the large silver and flipped it to Jon. “Your cut of the money.”

Jon snapped it out of the air and whistled. “That much?”

“Might be a little over, but it’s fine,” Stern said. “See you in a bit.”

“Yeah,” Jon said softly, looking at the coin in his hand.

“Stern?” Cammie called out from the doorway of her room.

“Huh?” Stern asked, looking her way before catching the flying pouch.

“Make sure to split that up so we all have our cut,” Cammie snickered.

Stern had managed to grab the pouch, though not exactly gracefully, and he could feel her mirth. “After the bath,” Stern snorted.

The room was empty, and Stern was a little surprised at that— Trish and Cyra should’ve had plenty of time to bathe before he got to the inn. Their stuff was there, so he dropped his bag near theirs, then dug in to get some clean clothing. He also pulled out the extra dirty clothes he had to make sure they could get a good scrubbing, answering his question about where the others might be. Bundling his dirty clothes into a sack, he left his room.

“They made it back,” Trish grinned at him; Cyra and Trish were just coming into the suite. “How’d it go?”

“Well enough,” Stern said. “Tell you over dinner?”

“That’s fine. Take your time. We have a couple of hours before dinner will be ready.”

“We got our clothes washed,” Cyra said. “Oh, yours are in the bag?”

“Yeah. I’ll get them all done at once.”

“Smart move,” Trish said.

“We did ours that way, too,” Nicole said from the sofa.

That left Stern wondering why his lovers were late back to the room, but he quickly shut those thoughts down. “For the best. See you all in a bit.”

“Both of the baths were couples’ rooms,” Trish said as she paused beside Stern, “so feel free to use just one if you want.”

Stern’s face burned hotly. He heard a strangled sound from behind him, letting him know Cammie had heard her, too.

“You’re terrible,” Cyra snickered as she batted Trish’s arm. “But it’s fine if you do.”

Stern just blinked at them before nodding jerkily. “Got it. See you in a bit.”

“Take your time. Make sure to scrub really good to get the road grime off,” Trish winked at him, then at Cammie.

Stern walked out of the room, moving on autopilot. He heard Cammie behind him, and he wondered if he should ask her. It would be a lot more forward than he’d have gone, but the idea made him want to ask.

The back stairs to the bathing rooms were easy to find. At the bottom stood four closed doors— one had an in-use plaque hanging from the door handle, and the other two had reserved plaques. He paused at the bottom of the stairs, still wondering if he should ask.

“Uh...” Cammie whispered, her uncertainty and worry fighting against her hope and lust. “I mean… if you’re okay with it… I am. Just washing up… nothing too much. Cleaning and looking?”

Swallowing as her emotions tangled with his, Stern nodded. “I’d like that... but if you have second thoughts, we can split up. Okay?”

Stern’s obvious nerves helped calm her. She knew he wasn’t the type to lunge at her, forcing the issue, but part of her brain worried about it. “I think I’ll be fine.”

Cammie’s worry and uncertainty fading made Stern relax, too. “Should we commit and remove one of the signs?” Stern asked.

Cammie inhaled slowly, licking her lips before she did just that. “I’ll get your back, you get mine?”

“Sure,” Stern croaked, his mind spinning the idea through his imagination.

Cammie glanced at him, then giggled as she opened the reserved room. Stepping inside, she held the door open with a mischievous glint in her eyes. “Come on in… the water’s fine.”

The line felt corny, but Stern smiled as he entered the room.

The pair went to work in quick order, not teasing each other. Getting their clothing done first was just smart, as it would give it more time to dry. They each caught glimpses of one another, but did their best to focus. Cammie’s increasing lust was making it difficult for Stern to stay as focused as he should be and, because of that, Cammie had her clothes cleaned first.

His hands slowed as he watched her take her clothing to the line. Cammie had to stand on her toes to get it hung up, which made her flex, showing off her toned muscles. Most Walkers were very fit; they had to be when putting their life repeatedly on the line. Add in their extra training, and Cammie’s compact frame was chiseled from behind.

Cammie glanced back and turned red when she caught him staring. “You done?”

“Oh! Uh... almost,” Stern coughed, his face burning as he quickly scrubbed his last shirt.

“I didn’t mind,” Cammie said softly. “You can feel that. It was flattering, honestly.”

Stern kept his eyes on the tub. “I do feel you, which means I feel the worry growing in you, too. Comparing yourself to them again?”

“It’s like you can read minds with how well you connect emotions,” Cammie said as she went to one of the tubs. “Yes, I was. Trish is just as solid as I am... or even more so. Cyra is leaner and softer.”

Stern gathered his wet clothing, standing up to hang it. He looked at her bent over, facing him as she tested the water to plug the tub. “You’re all different. Those differences are all good, too.”

Cammie glanced up, but her eyes paused briefly below his navel before meeting his eyes, her face bright red. “Okay... I’m trying to accept that.”

“And yes, that’s all you,” Stern said awkwardly. “I’ll hang these, then get your back. Okay?”

“Yes, please,” Cammie whispered as she bit her lower lip. She was shocked at how brazen and forward she was being. Her mother might’ve had a fit and her brother would be shocked if they knew what she was doing, but she didn’t care. What she cared about was Stern being comfortable with her.

Cammie’s emotions hammered into Stern. He accepted them just like he had for Trish and Cyra. If they were going to make this work between the four of them, he needed to be equally fair with Cammie.

She was sitting in the water, chewing her lip, when Stern knelt beside the copper tub. Jerking when he suddenly appeared beside her, her heart caught in her throat.

“Easy...” Stern said softly. “I’m washing your back, right?”

“Yes,” Cammie nodded. “Can you get all of my back?” she asked as she stood up, turning away from him.

“If that’s what you want, yes. I’ll wash as little or much as you want me to.”

Cammie’s heart swelled, and she stopped breathing for a moment. “Really?”

“As long as we keep it to your skin, yes...” Stern managed shakily.

Cammie turned to face him with a bar of soap in her hands. Meeting his eyes, she held it out to him. “Start with my front, then?”

Her emotions were bright, powerful, and subsumed Stern. Taking the soap, he gave her a soft smile. “Put your foot on the edge, please? I’ll start with your legs and feet.”

Cammie’s heart soared as he accepted her request— it’d been so difficult for her to ask, but he accepted it easily.

The moment between them had them both red-faced and beyond excited. Stern stayed as proper as he could, lingering only for seconds on some spots. When it was her turn, Cammie did the same, even as her heart pounded like a kettledrum against her ribs.

When it came to an end and they got ready to leave, Stern stopped Cammie. Still naked, he knelt, gently pulling her to him. Cammie’s breath caught and she went to him willingly. Their lips met softly as they kissed, the passion of the bath bubbling over in this moment.

Cammie pushed against him, her bare flesh grinding against his leg as his arms tightened around her. Lips parted, tongues dueled, and the pair felt the lust flare between them. Cammie moaned in frustrated need, but she was the one to push away from their kiss.

Meeting his eyes, she saw the same lust in him, but also the control. “Why?” she asked.

“Because I want you to know, without question, how attractive I find you. I know we’re both a little uncertain about what might happen in the future, but I wanted to drive that last worry out of your mind. You’re gorgeous, and it’s difficult to control myself with you. I love you enough as a friend— and hopefully more— to not push just because I’m full of hormones.”

Cammie’s eyes softened, her heart swelling with tenderness. “Thank you. Sorry for leaving you… damp.”

Stern chuckled. “Trish is going to be jealous of me. I had you naked and wet in my arms before she did.”

Deep, throaty, happy laughter bubbled up from Cammie. The love grew in her heart as she thought about what Trish would say when Stern told her. “She can have me in the same way… or more…”

“Oh? Now I’m the jealous one,” Stern chuckled as he let her go. “We should get dressed, though. You really are a temptation right now.”

Flushing, Cammie glanced down. She bit her lip, then hurried away. “Later… but before copper. I promise.”

“I’ll accept that,” Stern smiled as he stood up. His thumb grazed over the wet spot she’d left on his thigh, and his grin grew. “I’ll be ready when you are.”

Chapter Twenty-three

Stern woke slowly, the memories of the prior day returning to him: shopping with Cammie and helping her pick out parts for traps; bathing with her, which had been a bit more intense than he’d expected; and then, after dinner, more kissing and light touching with her before bed.

She’s not feeling as worried about not being included now, Stern thought. It’s good... she’s riding high on love and lust. Maybe this will all work out for the best, after all. Fuck, he’s going to laugh his ass off... He imagined his father’s reaction when he found out that it was, in fact, all three women he loved.

Trish’s stirring snapped him out of his reverie. “Hmm? Good morning,” Trish murmured as she leaned in to kiss him.

“Good morning to you, too, beautiful,” Stern chuckled softly. When Cyra tilted his head the other way, he was happy to kiss her. “And to you, as well.”

“We didn’t get to hear how it went,” Trish said, kissing his chest. “Spill.”

“We kept the bath mostly proper,” Stern explained. “We didn’t shy away from anything, and we washed each other down fully. It helped her emotions settle down.”

“Good,” Cyra smiled. She propped herself up to lean over Stern, collecting a kiss from Trish.

That stopped Stern for a moment as he watched his two lovers kiss. “Uh... yeah... after dinner was basically what she’d done with Trish. Clothing stayed on as we touched, and there was a lot of kissing.”

“Trish and I were thinking of having a girl’s night out with Cammie and Nicole,” Cyra said as she started to get out of bed.

“Sounds fine to me,” Stern nodded. “Trish, did you split that coin?”

“I did. Cyra and I took ours, and I put yours in your money pouch. The now much-smaller pouch is for Cammie.”

“Hand it off in a moment, then? She’ll need it if you’re all going out.”

“What about you and Jon?”

“We’ll probably just grab a drink in the taproom, but I’ll ask. He might want to do something different.”

All of them were dressed and out of their room shortly after that. Cammie was sitting on a sofa, petting Pawly. She gave them a smile, greeting them as she continued to pet the happy cat.

Stern set the bag of money on the table in front of her. “Your cut of the money.”

“We’re going to ask Nicole about doing a girl’s night out tonight,” Cyra said, taking a seat beside Cammie. “With you, too, of course.”

“That’d be good,” Cammie agreed. “We need to make sure she has someone with her if she goes out, since the idiot brigade is here.”

“That’s a good point,” Trish said. “We’ll be fine, though.”

“I’ll go get breakfast. We have gear to look over before people separate today,” Stern said.

“I’ll cart ours out here,” Trish said, heading back to the bedroom.

“I need to get up for a bit, Pawly,” Cammie was saying as Stern left the suite.

He was in a good mood when he made it down to the taproom. The room was busy with Walkers having food before going to the dungeon for the day. A few gave him long looks, but others just glanced at him, then went back to eating.

“What can I get you?” the bartender asked.

“Breakfast for six, two kettles of tea, and a saucer of milk, please?”

“Be a bit.”

“That’s fine. I’ll wait here to help bring it up.”

The bartender went to inform the kitchen. As he walked away, someone else stepped up to the bar, focused on Stern instead of the bartender.

“When’s your crew going in?” Marvella asked.

“Probably tomorrow,” Stern told the wolf lykian. “We’re going to be going over our gear today and relaxing before we head in.”

Taking a deep, slow breath, Marvella nodded. “It’s a good plan. Rushing in is never the best idea... will you be able to pull all of her shards?”

“This will be our first run here. If we can’t get her in a single go, we can run it again.”

Marvella’s one good eye scanned his face. “Why...? Why did you offer to help?”

“Right... you were up being seen by the chief of the branch,” Stern said. “Basically, because every Walker should try to pull shards. More than that, I understand what she went through.”

“You’re telepathic?” Marvella was a little incredulous.

“Empathic,” Stern said softly. “I just got my perk to stop it in the last dungeon.”

Marvella’s one eye blinked slowly before she patted his shoulder. “I’m happy for you.”

Her smile was brittle, and Stern patted her hand on his shoulder. “She might, too. We think that irregulars twist the odds of what’s offered. My crew has another irregular, and we were offered some very unusual perks. If she runs again, she should find a crew with another irregular. If my crew wasn’t full, I’d offer, but we’re maxed out and all in sync.”

Marvella exhaled slowly, taking her hand away. “I left my crew to come down here for her. I still have a single run through every dungeon left. When she comes back, I’m going to offer to help her. Maybe this time, she’ll accept it.”

“Why didn’t she before?” Stern asked.

“She didn’t want to hold me back. I’m two years older… was two years older… She’d had a crew after the first three, so I let her have her way.” Marvella’s eye misted and her jaw set. “Idiot sister... They let her do what she asked because they didn’t care for her like they should have. She was just a useful trap finder, but not indispensable to them at the time. When they found me, they apologized... they think they might have inadvertently pushed her to it.”

“If they kept her at arm’s length… they might have,” Stern agreed softly. “Will you two be able to find a crew?”

“I’m a bulwark, and she’s a trap finder,” Marvella said. “We can patch in others… I hope.”

“Take some time to vet them. Your sister can tell if they’re okay or not, just like I used to when we had new people join us. It can be unpleasant, but it’s for the best.”

“How did you deal with it?”

Stern paused, taking a moment to consider his answer. “Anger, mostly. In the end, it was the care of my crew that helped me the most; people who understood and wanted to help. It’s what we’re doing now for another irregular and her husband.”

“The masked one that the fucker talked about?” Marvella asked tightly.

“Nicole. Her unusual perk isn’t empathy or telepathy, but it still made it extremely difficult for her and her husband.”

“She found someone? Even being an irregular?”

“She did, and so did I. There are those who can accept us as we are… if we don’t give up.”

Marvella snorted, her lips turning up. “A positive irregular, hmm?”

Stern laughed, then tapped the badge he’d attached to his shirt. “It’s who we are. We’re Pawsitively Irregular.”

Marvella’s brow furrowed, then she laughed. “That’s terrible.”

“Thank you,” Stern chuckled. “Here comes my food. If you want to see us off tomorrow, we’ll be here having breakfast about this time.”

“I’ll be here,” Marvella said. “I’m... uh... banned from the hall for a week, so I can’t do what I wanted, which was increasing her reward. I’ll pay you out of my pocket when you bring her out on top of what they pay you.”

“No,” Stern said softly. “I won’t accept. I didn’t offer to do it for the money.”

Marvella’s eye narrowed, but Stern turned to take the kettles and cups from the bartender, leading the server up the stairs. When he left, she snorted. “Fine... I’ll not offer you coin, then. All Walkers can use better gear.”

~*~*~

Breakfast was tasty, and Pawly loved her saucer of milk, but she really loved the tidbits the others gave her. Stern just rolled his eyes at her.

When they shifted to checking their gear, Stern relayed his chat with Marvella to the others. “I think she’ll be here to see us off.”

“Wild animals wouldn’t keep her away,” Trish said. “She obviously was going to go herself, but now, you’ve given her the chance to run the dungeon with her sister. That’s the only reason she hasn’t just paid others to go with her.”

“I agree with Trish,” Jon said as he worked on his sword.

“If we weren’t full, we could offer her the chance to go with us,” Cyra said.

“What are the odds she gets the perk she wants?” Cammie asked.

“Very slim, even for us,” Nicole answered. “I haven’t seen the one I want, and Stern only just got his.”

“Yeah,” Stern sighed. “Three irregulars all together, though…? That would be… odd.”

“It’d have the chance to really skew things if we’re right about it.”

“It’s conjecture, but it feels like it’s right,” Jon said. “Just based on what we’ve seen for us, and the last dungeon.”

“To change the topic,” Trish said, “Nicole, we were thinking of having a girls’ night out tonight. A little bit of fun and bonding for us four. What do you think?”

“Oh! Uh…” Nicole hesitated.

“Go,” Jon said softly, touching her leg. “You’ve never had the chance before.”

Nicole met his eyes. A smile formed on her face before she sniffled. “It’s been like a dream, Jon. Friends… real friends…?”

His smile was soft when he leaned in to kiss her. “I know. You should embrace it. I trust them to keep you safe. So go and enjoy the evening. Just remember that we run tomorrow.”

“We’ll keep it light,” Trish grinned. “We’ll all be ready tomorrow.”

“But this is why we wanted to,” Cyra sniffled. “I know what it’s like to be the person with no friends. I want her to have the same joy I’ve found.”

“Which leaves us,” Stern told Jon. “I was thinking of just a few drinks in the taproom, unless you have something else in mind?”

“That should be fine,” Jon said. “Let’s check our gear, though. We might need to run out for things, too.”

“Works for me,” Stern said.

“It’s going to be a good night,” Cammie said as she set her armor aside. “No damage to my armor since they never got close to me during the trip.”

“Same,” Cyra said. “We did really well with the monsters.”

“I need to work on parts of mine,” Trish sighed. “At least it’s mostly minor.”

“I lost a scale or two,” Jon said. “Can you handle it?”

“Yeah. It’ll just take me a bit. Let’s see if there’s any more damage. If there is, we might need to put off our plan.”

When they finished with their gear check, only Jon and Trish’s armor needed touch-ups. Trish focused on those, so she got them done before it got too late. Jon had to put an edge back on his sword, then change the string on the pneumatic crossbow.

The others handled odds and ends, with Cammie preparing her traps and making sure her bag was in order so she could access parts without having to dig for them.

It was a couple of hours past noon by the time they’d finished. The girls went to bathe and go have their night out, and the guys headed out to buy more oil for weapon maintenance, along with a few other loose ends.

Stern had them swing by the post to check the mail, and both he and Jon found letters waiting for them. Stern suggested they put them off until after they had their drinks. Jon readily agreed, as he wasn’t looking forward to his letter.

Chapter Twenty-four

“A golden ale, please?” Stern asked the barmaid.

“Never been fond of ale at all, myself,” Jon said. “I’d like some wine, whatever the best you have is.”

“Bring the bottle and two glasses. Skip the ale,” Stern was quick to say.

The maid agreed, took the payment from Stern, and left the table.

“Why change?” Jon asked.

“I’m fine with wine, and it’ll be easier to refill from the bottle this way. Cammie’s brother was a dark ale guy. Out of all ales, dark is the worst. If you need a knife and fork for your drink, you’ve done it wrong.”

“Right?” Jon laughed. “A lot of Walkers look down on anyone who prefers a lighter drink.”

“Which is just stupid. Liking one drink over another doesn’t make you a worse Walker.”

“Lacks the manliness,” Jon rolled his eyes. “That came from a caster who fainted at the sight of his own blood.”

“Goddess, some people are hopeless,” Stern laughed.

The barmaid set down two glasses, then opened the bottle of wine at the table before pouring and leaving them to it.

“Stern,” Jon said slowly, “thanks. I know I was short and standoffish during that first meeting. It might’ve cost us the chance to run with your crew. I just worry for Nicole.”

“I get it. Protecting your loved one from the shit people give her. I could say thanks for not being a real dick. As soon as you saw our dynamics, you mellowed right out. I appreciate that.”

“You all embraced her, despite her need to stay covered. I never thought she’d get a day like today.” Jon sipped at his white wine. “Your soon-to-be-wives are amazing.”

“They really are,” Stern agreed. “I’m happy Nicole lets them open up with her.”

“I was curious, though... you gave them rings, but… when were you planning to have the ceremony?”

Stern looked around as he took a sip. “Keep it just between us? No telling Nicole?”

Jon sat back, took another drink, and then nodded. “Okay.”

“Blackwood. My family should be coming down for it. I hope that’s what the letter I got says. I wrote to them when we got to Mistwood and asked them to come down.”

“Oh...” Jon said. There was a touch of sadness in that single word.

“I’m not going to pry,” Stern said, “but if you want to let it out, I’m here. I can guess your family wasn’t happy.”

Jon snorted, then drained his glass and refilled it. “An understatement. I had no idea they were that bad. It started with my uncle. As we neared graduation, I brought Nicole home. It was supposed to be a dinner to let her meet my uncle’s family.” His gaze went distant as he drank from his refilled glass.

“Irregular bias?”

“Yeah,” Jon sighed. “When I had told him I was going to bring a woman over for dinner, he and my aunt were excited. They planned a great meal. They were going to help me impress her. When she arrived, I greeted her at the door. She was so nervous… I told her it’d be fine… it was my first and only lie to her.”

“Fuck...” Stern whispered, as he could see what was coming.

“I led her into the dining room to meet them. She had on a mask, a real one not the sack, because of her perk, but her pale skin and colorless eyes all point to her condition. When they saw her, the smiles vanished and a chill fell. They were coldly polite, and I could see Nicole wither under their gazes. We made it through dinner... I don’t know how. I walked her out, and she kept apologizing to me. I was apologizing to her in return. I had no idea what the problem was. When she left, my uncle yanked me aside. He berated me for… for being near an abomination. For bringing a ‘cursed one’ into his home.”

Stern’s eyes closed— he knew well the words and emotions behind them. He was glad Nicole never had his empathy; that dinner might have broken her.

“We fought, and when I flatly told him he was a bigoted asshole, he threw me out. Told me he wasn’t an uncle to a fool and that he would tell my parents.” Jon took a deep drink of his wine again. “I went to Nicole, apologized, and then rented the room beside hers. I didn’t go back to my uncle. Even when I left the city with Nicole, I never went back.”

“Don’t blame you,” Stern said.

“Wait,” Jon said as he refilled his glass. “My father found us in Waterrock. He’d been told about my relationship and came to ‘set me straight.’ As you can imagine, that didn’t go like he thought it would. Nicole was in the room, huddled in the corner, crying that she was sorry. That was when he gave me his ultimatum: Nicole or my family. He’d disown me and cut me off from all support. My life was always to take over the business from him before then.”

“He didn’t understand love.”

“No, he doesn’t. Maybe he did once, but I don’t think he ever really did. Anyway, I didn’t hesitate. He gave me the ultimatum and I hit him. It felt good... a solid punch that floored him. As he tried to understand what’d happened, I collected Nicole and carried her away. She was a wreck. She still blames herself for what happened, no matter how much I tell her otherwise.”

Stern finally refilled his glass, then topped Jon’s off.

“Father wasn’t satisfied with my answer. He had me arrested for assault, so I did a month of service to the city. When I was freed, Nicole was there, waiting for me. She tried to break up with me, apologizing nonstop, until I kissed her, knelt, and asked her to marry me. I told her that life without her wasn’t worth living. Luckily, she agreed. I used what I had to buy a ring, married her, and that was it. Haven’t spoken to my family since. My father might have disowned me, but I’m still going to eventually be a smith. And, when I do settle down, I’ll become the best smith I can be to prove my point: I don’t need him as long as I have Nicole.”

“Wow...” Stern murmured. “The letter?”

“From my sister. Not sure why she wrote to me. Maybe to deride me for choosing Nicole? Honestly, I’m not looking forward to it.”

“Because it’ll twist the knife, the reminder that you aren’t family anymore.”

“Yeah. Also... I’m afraid she’ll have taken his side. I hope she hasn’t, but if she has…”

Stern nodded. He didn’t understand the pain of being forced to choose the way Jon had, but he knew how wrecked he would be if his family had disowned him.

The pair drank in silence for a while before Jon apologized for killing the mood.

“Idiot. None of that’s your fault,” Stern said. “How’s it feel to unburden it, though?”

Jon sipped at his wine. “A little better.”

“We’re not family,” Stern said, “but we’re crew, and crew is as close to family as you can get. You’ll never have to worry about that happening with us.” He raised his glass slightly. “Family doesn’t always mean blood.”

Jon stared at him for a moment, then tapped glasses. “To a better family.”

~*~*~

They finished two bottles, had dinner, and called it a night. When they made it back to the suite, Pawly went with him into the bedroom. Stern pulled out his letter; licking his lips, he hoped it was good news.

Son,

First, the easy stuff: our run went fine, and yeah, the new town is secured. Because of that, we’ll be heading south. Not sure if all of your siblings will come with, but they might. We’ll be giving them the choice.

All of us are proud of you, even them. If you could hear your sisters, you’d laugh. They might’ve had problems with you sometimes because of your perk, but they’re going to grill your wives. They’re fired up over making sure that Trish and Cyra are right for you.

Your mother is excited to meet them, and of course, is hoping you’ll give us grandkids. Julia and Karen helped settle her down some, a little at least. Not sure how things might be going with your idea that Cammie might be interested in your relationship, too. No matter which way it goes, we all wish you the best.

Be ready for Marysue. She’s almost as bad as your mothers. Gerald laughed his ass off when he heard about the pending wedding. He had a few comments about my son being a chip off the old block but, honestly, if your love is like mine for your mothers, he can say whatever he wants, because you’d know how powerful that feeling is.

We’ll probably be in Blackwood before you. Since you said you’re okay with people knowing about you being our son, I’m not going to hide it. I’d never hide you being my son— I only would if you asked. Don’t be surprised if the city is in high spirits when you get in because of that.

Your mothers are already planning the venue, food, and everything else, so you’ll just need you and your wives. We’re all eager to meet them to welcome them into the family. Those two— or three— helped you find yourself, and for that, I will always treasure them.

As for your deeds on the way up the tiers, we’ve been proud of your actions. Pawsitively Irregular has started to make a real name for itself as a serious crew for Rescue Squad. Some might temper their feelings on that when it becomes known that you’re our son, but we’re proud of you.

Wrapping this up, as we’re supposed to leave tomorrow morning, you’d better be prepared for the love we feel when we see you, because it might drown you. We won’t be holding back.

Your proud parents,

Seamus, Stacia, Karen, and Julia

Stern set the letter aside, sniffling back the tears. “Dammit, Dad... Thank you.”

Pawly meowed, then crawled onto his lap.

“It was good news,” Stern told her, rubbing her side. “We’ll be seeing them in Blackwood. They’ll be there for the wedding. We just need to see if Cammie really wants to be with all of us by then...”

Pawly purred loudly.

“Yeah... I hope so, too. I have no idea when they’ll be back, so we might as well turn in for the night. Tomorrow, we’ll go rescue another soul.”

Pawly purred louder, not intending to move.

Stern chuckled. “Fine. A little more petting, first.”

Chapter Twenty-five

Blinking slowly, Stern looked to the left— Trish was curled up against his side. He smiled at her and kissed her forehead before turning his head the other way. Stern frowned, as Cyra wasn’t there.

Memory came back to him and he stared at the vacant spot on the bed: Trish had come into the room just as Stern was climbing into bed. She had a small buzz going from her night out, but wasn’t drunk enough for it to be a problem for the next day. When Cyra hadn’t followed her into the room, she laughed.

Once Trish had stripped and joined him in bed, she explained as her hands wandered over his body— Cammie had asked Cyra to spend the night with her. She promised it wouldn’t go further than it had with the others, but she wanted to cuddle with her. The mental image of Cammie and Cyra curled up with one another had a pronounced effect on Stern. Trish was happy to help him with his hard problem and, after an hour, they’d both fallen asleep.

“Good morning,” Trish murmured, shifting to kiss him.

“Good morning to you, too,” Stern said. “How’re you feeling?”

“Fine. I made sure none of us overdid it last night. I was the worst out of us.”

“Which is normal,” Stern chuckled.

Trish slapped his chest. “Mean… but not wrong,” she laughed. “I’m happy you were okay with Cammie and Cyra spending last night together. Cammie wasn’t sure if it was okay to ask, but Cyra and I both reassured her. She was all smiles when Cyra pulled her into the other bedroom.”

“Good,” Stern exhaled. “I’m thinking of having the ceremony in Blackwood.”

Trish blinked, clearly surprised. “I’d thought you’d want to wait for the next tier.”

“I’ve thought about it, and I think Blackwood will be the right time. I’m not sure if Cammie will be in on that ceremony, or if we’ll have a second one for her.”

Trish stared at him for a moment. “There’s a reason for it, but I won’t press. We should get up. Dungeon today.”

“Yeah. Another soul to save,” Stern said as he watched Trish get out of bed. His eyes tracked over her scars. She’d explained them all to him before, but he just marveled that a woman that fierce loved him.

“If you ogle, you’ll be late,” Trish smirked. She canted a naked hip and looked over her shoulder.

Stern exhaled, then got out of bed. “You’re right. I’m responsible, so I’ll get dressed.”

The door cracked open and Cyra’s head appeared around the frame before she slipped inside. “Good morning.”

“Good morning, indeed,” Trish snickered. “So?”

“We kissed and touched, then we slept. She held me,” Cyra smiled, her cheeks lightly dusting pink. “I felt happy. She was all smiles when I left her this morning.”

“Waking up next to you does that to people,” Stern grinned.

“Agreed,” Trish smirked.

Cyra shook her head as she headed for her clothing and gear. “She’s getting ready now.”

“Are you both good for the day?” Stern asked.

“We all made sure to moderate ourselves. Trish was the only one who even had a light buzz. The quest to retrieve the shards kept us honest.”

“I never did ask,” Trish said. “How was your night with Jon?”

Stern exhaled as he put his thoughts in order. “He told me about being disowned by his family. They made him choose between them or Nicole.”

“Fuckers...” Trish sighed.

“He picked correctly,” Cyra said.

“We did the little shopping we needed and shared some wine— he doesn’t like ale— then had dinner. Didn’t do anything of note. He told me while we were drinking; he’d gotten a letter from his sister. Not sure if that was good or bad news for him. He didn’t want to read it until we came back to the suite.”

“Hope it was good news...” Cyra said softly.

“Bad news right before a run might distract him,” Trish said.

“I also had a letter from my parents,” Stern said. He knew he should mention it and hedge the truth because, this way, Jon didn’t give it away. “They finished their last run and are going to come south. I’m not sure if all my siblings will be with them or not. Dad did say that Marysue and Gerald will be with them, so you’ll get to meet the Hand of Law, and I would bet he’ll have his mount with him. I know you both wanted to see Scales of Justice.”

“I do,” Trish said. “I always thought a wyvern mount would be amazing.”

“They don’t show up in the shop until the dark and bright metal tiers,” Stern said. “We can see about mounts once we hit iron. Battle mounts can be useful when we’re doing overland travel and questing.”

“We’ll be meeting your parents soon?” Cyra asked slowly.

“Copper tier was discussed,” Stern answered truthfully.

“Ah. So you want to be married to us before we meet them,” Trish said.

“What?” Cyra asked, pausing in getting ready.

“Stern says that he was thinking Blackwood was a good time to do our marriage ceremony.”

“Really?” Cyra’s hopeful smile was brilliant.

“I want to marry you both and, by the time we reach there, it might mean Cammie is comfortable enough.”

“She really is coming along quickly,” Trish smiled. “We could tell her the plan and see if that encourages her more?”

Stern hesitated, then nodded. “After the run. We need to be focused.”

Cyra nodded quickly before taking a deep breath. “Dungeon first, but I do hope she’s okay with joining us by then.”

“Full agreement from me,” Trish said as she started with her armor.

“I’m with you both in that,” Stern nodded, picking up his armor, “but that will be her choice.”

They greeted the others when they left their room. Cammie was all smiles, and Stern gave her a hug, as he could see and feel her anxiousness. With everyone ready, the group headed down to get breakfast.

They were just finishing up when Marvella walked through the door. She came right to their table, her one good eye looking the group over.

“Marvella, good morning,” Stern greeted her when she came up behind Jon and Nicole.

“Morning,” Marvella said tightly. “I’ll be waiting for you all to come out.”

The others turned to look at her, as only Stern and Cammie had seen her before. Nicole gasped lightly when she realized Marvella only had one eye.

The lykian looked at Nicole with a raised eyebrow. “You have my thanks. I asked around about your crew and I’ve heard about how many you’ve pulled out. I want to thank you for helping my sister, but someone told me not to increase the pay.” Her eye went back to Stern. “So I’m giving you these, as they aren’t money.”

She placed two items on the table, and Trish whistled softly. “Greater runes.”

“Earth and light,” Marvella said. “Please use them to make your run easier.”

Stern snorted. “Nice end-run. Who has open rune slots?”

“My sword and your crossbow,” Jon said.

“He has valid points there,” Trish said. “Earth for the crossbow and light for the sword.”

“Don’t want light on the crossbow for the same reason I didn’t want wind on it,” Stern chuckled. “If we’re doing that,” Stern dug out the wind rune and tossed it to Jon, “add the wind to your sword, too.”

“That… I’ll do my best,” Jon said softly.

They applied the runes with Marvella standing there, and she nodded when they finished. “Good. That’ll increase your chances to succeed.”

“It will,” Trish said as she stood up. “We’ll pull her out, even if it takes all our points.”

“Thank you,” Marvella said thickly. “I’ll walk with you, if you don’t mind.”

Everyone else got up and Pawly floated up from her chair.

Marvella blinked in shock— she’d forgotten about the floating cat. “Will the cat be okay?”

“Pawly is my summons, and she’ll be fine as long as I am,” Stern said. “I’ll finish upgrading her before we go in.”

“Finish upgrading? Hmm... those perks are highly sought after by summoners.”

“With good reason,” Stern replied. “You’ll see why shortly.”

The walk to the dungeon wasn’t long, as it was just around the Walkers’ guildhall. The area around the dungeon was open, and had stalls for vendors to sell standard items, along with food carts and areas with shade to rest. In the very middle, several guards stood around a shaft in the ground.

“Big opening,” Stern said. “Six ladders?”

“A whole crew can go down or up at a time,” Marvella said. “There’s a guard at the bottom to make sure there are no problems with people trying to come up as others come down. Now, what about these upgrades?”

Stern chuckled and was about to start on them when a snide voice rang over the general noise of the crowd, “There the freaks are! Two abominations, going in after a third.”

Marvella spun around, a snarl on her lips. “Haven’t you two learned your lesson?!”

Billy and Brandon were standing with four others, who all looked angry. “Haven’t you? Your sister knew her place,” Billy said.

The crowd parted and people turned to watch. The guards by the entrance shifted, wondering if they were going to have to get involved.

“Bigotry is as ugly as you are,” Stern said calmly. “Out of our two groups here, you’re the worst. We rescue shards, giving people the chance to live again. What about you?”

“People? No, you don’t. You’re going in to rescue a freak like you.”

“Blighted spawn,” Brandon sneered.

Stern’s fingers flexed, his wrist rotating at the same time. Pawly hissed as she shook herself above the gathering. Gasps came from all around as the giant cat, now sparking with electricity, stared down at the six opposing Stern.

“She gets cranky when people insult my parents,” Stern said simply. “I don’t care if you hate me. I’ve dealt with it for years. If you’re so close-minded that you can’t pull your head out of your ass, that’s your problem. We’re going in to rescue a fractured Walker. That’s the only thing that matters.”

“You freaks should never be allowed to be Walkers!” Brandon snapped.

“Everyone can be a Walker,” someone in the throng said. “Shut your mouth, you idiot!”

The crowd got loud as people argued about irregulars.

“Enough!” The single word boomed out over the crowd, and everyone fell silent. The captain of the guards for the dungeon glared at them all. “I will not tolerate a mob. Are your groups going in or not?”

“We are,” Stern said, taking his attention off Billy’s group.

“Then get over here!”

Stern started walking. The others trailed him except for Marvella, who stayed where she was.

“You! Are you with them or not?”

Marvella finally pulled her eye from Brandon’s group. “They’re going in to pull my sister out.”

The guard nodded. “I understand,” he said, his voice softer. “Please return to the hall until they finish. I don’t want an incident here.”

Marvella gave a sharp nod, spun on her heel, and started away.

“Fucking mutt,” Billy sneered.

“You!” the captain snapped as Stern and crew started down the ladders, Pawly floating down above them. “Are you running or not?!”

“Yes, sir,” Billy smiled evilly.

“Then get over here. You’re going in next.”

Cyra’s ears trembled, as she’d heard his response and the tone of it.

The bottom of the shaft was a giant open cavern. One wall was comprised of the swirling mist of the dungeon.

“We need to go,” Cyra said. “I think… they might try to take a shard.”

Stern stiffened. “Those idiots... Collection and refusal to turn in shards is a crime... come on. We don’t want to get caught up in that. If we finish first, they won’t have the option.”

The group hurried through the portal just as Billy’s group started to climb down.

Chapter Twenty-six

The dungeon was wide open, with stone outcroppings dotting the desert around them. Bits of brown scrub helped break up the barrenness. Heatwaves shimmered in the distance, distorting the landscape.

“Dammit!” Stern hissed. “Open dungeons could mean a kill-all. That would be the worst for us trying to be quick.”

“It is what it is,” Trish said as she scanned the area. “Nothing being visible worries me, because there isn’t a lot of cover.”

“The enemy can either blend into the landscape, tunnel, or fly.”

Everyone looked up at the bright, sunny day— there was not a single cloud in the sky. The heat of the place was starting to make all of them uncomfortable, but Jon and Trish more so with their heavier, more metallic armor.

“Normally, we circle the outside,” Stern said, “but we might want to push slowly in, instead.”

“I want us to find the wall first. That makes it less likely we’ll be surrounded,” Trish countered.

“Pawly, go up. See if there’s a ceiling or if you can spot anything, please.”

Pawly started flying upward and kept going. She eventually stopped, then floated back down. She landed and motioned with her tentacles like she was touching a surface, then shook her head.

“No ceiling... you were up there a good distance, too.”

Pawly dove onto the sand, spreading herself wide. Her tentacles stuck out between her legs before she shifted, acting like she was scuttling.

“Insects,” Stern grimaced. “With the desert setting, two come to mind easily, spiders being the first.”

Pawly chuffed as she stood up and shook the sand out of her fur.

“So we—” Stern started.

Pawly chuffed, then crouched and brought her tentacles together over her back, flaring them into an arc.

“And scorpions…?” Stern exhaled. “Both of them?”

Pawly nodded.

“Okay... their carapaces will act like armor, and we’ll have to be worried about poisons. We have some antivenoms, but not many. If we’re lucky, they won’t be able to penetrate Trish’s armor and perk. The rest of us need to stay close together.” He hated what he was about to say, but he looked at Pawly.

Pawly chuffed, leaping to him. She almost knocked him down as she rubbed against him.

“Thank you,” Stern said softly. “It’s for the best.”

Pawly chuffed again, then sat down, waving her paw.

“Go home. We’ll call you back later.”

“Zasha?” Trish asked as Pawly faded away.

“Stone armor. He’s heavy, so that’ll help spring any of the ambushes the bugs might use,” Stern explained. “And we’ll want two who can handle them so the rest of us are safer. Add in the chance that his earthquake might mess with them, too, and we’ll have the best chance that way.”

“That makes sense,” Jon nodded.

Stern was already calling Zasha and upgrading him.

“We’ll thank him and Pawly once we’re out of here,” Cyra said softly.

“A whole fish for her,” Cammie said. “She’s very loyal and smart.”

“She really is,” Nicole smiled.

“Spiders and scorpions,” Stern told Zasha. “You’ll be point. Your weight should trigger ambushes. Attack them. If they poison you, let me know and we’ll dismiss and resummon, okay?”

Zasha barked as he stood up, his perks fully in place. He looked around, then back at Stern.

“Wall’s probably that way,” Trish said, pointing. “If he’s in front and I stay back with all of you, I can use my perk if one of you gets attacked.”

“Okay, around the outside, but faster than we’d normally go,” Stern said. “Zasha, if you think one of them is there, earthquake the spot.”

Zasha barked and started the way Trish had pointed.

Before they reached the wall, Zasha stopped and stared at a spot ahead of him. The ground rumbled there for a second before a spider came shooting out of the ground. It was the same size as Pawly when she was small, and nightmare fuel for anyone with spider phobias.

Zasha spat a spike of earth at it before it reached him. The next instant, the two crashed together, the spider’s fangs failing to pierce through Zasha’s rock armor. Zasha tore a leg free with his mouth before he reared up and crashed down on the spider.

A ball of ice slapped the creature and two crossbow bolts sunk into it, a third one bouncing off its carapace. Cammie frowned and put her crossbow away, reaching into her pack for a cold trap. She wasn’t about to throw it in this fight, but figured having one in hand, just in case, was for the best.

Zasha leaped, landing fully on the spider. A horrific cracking sound echoed in the still air, and it let out a rasping hiss as it feebly tried to free itself from under Zasha. The spider was dead a few seconds later.

“Well, Zasha was the right choice,” Trish said. “Good boy.”

Zasha barked happily, his tail wagging.

“Okay, buddy. Lead on,” Stern said.

~*~*~

They went faster than Stern would’ve called safe. They paused to turn their heads whenever a hard gust of wind would kick up a dust devil, but they worked around the outside, killing spiders. They hadn’t found any scorpions by the time they’d finished their first loop.

They moved back in, then spiraled around again. Stern worried about the time it was taking them, but they were moving as fast as they safely could— it wouldn’t do them any good to have one of their own die during the run.

Trish intercepted two spiders on the inner loop. They’d come from farther away instead of during an ambush or a fight with another spider. Stern was glad that Trish’s armor plus perk meant they couldn’t puncture her skin and poison her, because of that it let them speed up more.

The first scorpion was near an outcropping. When they drew near, it stood up, shook itself, then scuttled at them. As it came, two spiders popped out of the ground and rushed after it. Zasha corralled the scorpion while Trish charged forward to engage the spiders.

Before they could reach Trish, Cammie’s ice trap went off, slowing them both. Stern and Nicole focused on the one farther from Trish, intent on killing it outright. Cyra’s crossbow bolt joined them, and Jon got in front, ready to engage if it got close enough.

The spider was wounded, but still moving when it reached Jon. The ensuing clash was quick, and Jon had gotten bit once before the spider died. As everyone turned to help Trish, Cyra handed Jon an antivenom, positive that he’d been poisoned.

Jon thanked her, sputtering after drinking the vial. “Goddess, that’s disgusting.”

“But it does the job,” Stern said, putting a bolt into Trish’s spider.

The fight ended with the bugs dead, the only injury having been the bite to Jon. They salved him as Stern collected his bolts and reloaded his magazine.

“Okay... scorpions are probably close to the stones,” Trish panted. “They might have back up. We can handle this.”

Cammie went to her side, handing over her flask. “Drink. You’re sweating a lot.”

Trish didn’t argue at all, taking a good drink before giving it back. “Yeah, good point, Jon, make sure to stay hydrated.”

“Doing my best,” Jon said. “We all need to, but you and me more so.”

The dungeon wore at them, between the heat and multiple bug fights. They chewed through their antivenom supply, making sure to stay safe if any of them got bitten. Eventually, they made it toward the very center, finding a truly horrific scorpion waiting near a pool of water.

“That’s going to be a problem...” Stern said. “Pretty sure it’ll be able to sting Zasha and Trish. It could outright skewer us.”

“Boss fight,” Trish said tightly. “We can work with this... set traps, and then lure it into them before we even engage.”

“For the best,” Stern agreed. “Stay with cold. Cammie?”

“I have one ready, but I don’t have the components to make more cold traps. We’ve been using them regularly for this dungeon,” Cammie said. “We could use the fire traps farther out, then use cold as the closest one.”

“Best way to do it. This way, the cold lingers,” Stern agreed. “Zasha, you’re going to get hurt here... are you ready for that?”

Zasha wagged his tail in response.

“Okay. Trish will stay back with us, just in case it summons more. Jon, you’re secondary if that happens.”

“Got it,” Jon said.

“As for pulling it to us,” Stern said. “I’ll shoot it. Feel free to join in as soon as it’s close enough to manage.”

Zasha went a little ahead of them, then stopped.

“Cammie, that’s his spot. Use your traps farther out.”

Cammie nodded and got her traps ready to launch with her perk. “Let’s do this.”

~*~*~

The scorpion moved faster than it should, and fire flared whenever its claws or tail hit. Zasha yelped every time he got hit, as the scorpion was strong enough to damage him.

The fire traps didn’t do as much as they’d hoped, because the bug had a fire affinity. The single ice trap and Nicole’s Iceballs did the most damage to it. Stern’s crossbow was able to punch into its carapace, but Cyra’s couldn’t.

No additional creatures came, but the scorpion leapt past Zasha once, heading for Nicole. Trish managed to get in front of it and was knocked back and down as a result. When the scorpion lunged to reach Nicole, Trish was in her spot, bracing to take the hit again. She brought up her shield to block its tail while Jon’s shield stopped one of its claws snapping onto Trish. Trish screamed when the second claw snapped around her torso— she could feel her armor digging into her and blood trickle as fire bloomed, adding more pain.

Zasha came charging in, slamming into the bug. He sent it skittering away, releasing Trish as it went. That put the fight back where it’d been as the others moved away from the boss. Cyra healed Trish, having already healed Zasha.

It tried once more to leap at Nicole, but again, Trish stymied the scorpion, getting injured again. Cyra got her healed, using the last of her healing spells. Thankfully, they didn’t need more; the boss died against Zasha before it could leap a third time.

The moment it fell, the orb appeared near the oasis, and Stern rushed for the way out. “I’ll see you all inside!” he yelled, worried that they’d already taken too long.

Chapter Twenty-seven

Ria was already behind the counter when Stern appeared in the shop. “How can I help you? Hello, Zasha,” she smiled at the overly large stone dog.

“Shards!” Stern blurted. “Three of them! For Maverna Culnand!”

“By yourself, you can’t afford them,” Ria said softly. “I’m sorry.”

The others piled into the store a heartbeat later.

“You all agree on the shards, right?!” Stern asked quickly.

When they all consented, Ria produced three shards. “Here you are. These nearly deplete your points.”

“That’s fine,” Stern said, feeling the tension leave him. “Thought those other assholes were going to beat us to them...”

“There’s a story there, obviously,” Ria said. “Can you reduce Zasha?”

The dog took up a good amount of the room, enlarged as he was.

Stern’s fingers and wrists flexed through the patterns and Zasha shrank back to his smaller, unenhanced form. “Sorry.”

“Another group was probably angling to pick up one of the shards to stop us pulling her out,” Trish explained to Ria. “Maverna is an irregular like Stern, and the group hates irregulars.”

“That wouldn’t work out for them,” Ria said. “The acolytes can see if shards are retrieved from a dungeon. If they have been and haven’t been turned in, they can issue a quest to have the shards brought to them. It has been years since such a quest was issued, but it’s a mandatory quest for all Walkers in the area.”

“That would’ve been entertaining,” Jon said, “but I’m just as happy it wasn’t needed.”

“Did you want to spend the last of your points?”

“What do we have left?” Stern asked.

“You have two hundred and three points left.”

“Enough for a least rune and some left over.”

“What about a collar for Zasha?” Nicole suggested. “I noticed he doesn’t have one.”

“Two hundred for a single rune collar, so that would tap us.”

“We got the runes from Marvella. Let’s be honest; they helped kill things faster,” Jon said. “We got more than enough payment for the dungeon.”

“A collar for him would help when we get more runes,” Cammie said, “especially if we use him like we did today.”

Stern looked at Zasha, who rolled onto his back and kicked at the air playfully. Snorting, he knelt down and rubbed Zasha’s belly. “Yeah... you did good, boy. Okay, a single rune collar. Let’s go with… blue?”

Zasha barked happily, turning over and springing at Stern. Stern laughed as Zasha began to lick his face.

“I’d say that’s a yes,” Cyra giggled.

A blue collar appeared on the counter. “That leaves you with three points,” Ria said.

“Cammie, can you get anything for a trap with three points?” Stern asked, knowing it was all trash.

“Ria, can you show me useful things for three points?”

“Honestly, there’s nothing at that point total that would be useful for you,” Ria apologized.

“Then we’re done with points,” Trish said. “We rushed through that dungeon.”

“All of you played critical parts, didn’t you?” Ria smiled.

“I didn’t feel as useful, but yes, I think we all had key parts to play,” Jon said.

“My spells were very helpful. Cammie’s traps were, too,” Nicole said. “Cyra’s healing helped us in combat, and she was always there with the antivenom. Trish was a perfect bulwark, and Zasha was our lead, stopping ambushes and taking all the monsters on at the front. Stern was a good shot and, without him, Zasha wouldn’t have been there.”

Everyone had to agree with her— they’d all helped in clearing the dungeon.

Stern put the collar on Zasha, giving the dog more love. “Thank you, buddy.”

Zasha sneezed, then flopped onto his side and waved a paw.

“Okay, go home. We’ll bring you back in a bit and give you a treat.”

Zasha melted into the floor, smiling as he went.

“That just leaves you with perks to choose,” Ria said. “Who wishes to go first?”

“Go ahead, Nicole,” Trish said. “We’re hoping for you.”

Nicole nodded and took a deep breath before she stepped up to the counter. “Show me, please, Ria.”

“Choose well, Walker,” Ria said as her hand passed over the counter, leaving three pages behind.

Nicole checked the first one, frowning as she set it down. The frown deepened when she looked at the second. The third got her lips to purse in thought.

“What’d you get?” Jon asked as he went to her side.

“I got the two I passed on last time: Mostly Harmless, which makes me less likely to be seen as a threat, and Poison Resistance, which is exceptionally odd.”

“We’ve seen a lot of repeated choices. That’s really against the norm,” Stern said. “Both of those perks kind of make sense, considering the dungeon. Lots of poison from the bugs, and the boss targeted you because of your spells.”

“Hmm... that’s true,” Jon said. “What was the third one?”

“‘Friendly Fire Isn’t; sorry, didn’t mean to hurt you. Allies caught in your area spells take less damage from them,’” Nicole said, reading them the page.

“That’s one of a two-part perk set,” Stern said. “The second one removes the damage to allies entirely.”

“I do my best to never hit any of you, as it is,” Nicole said, “which means it’s this one or Mostly Harmless as my best choice this time.” There was underlying sadness in her tone.

Jon rubbed her back. “Maybe the next dungeon will be what we need.”

“Either of them would be good choices,” Trish said, feeling bad for her new friend.

“Not having you targeted as often would be good for the group,” Cammie said, “but if you found the second part to the other perk, you could cast area spells more freely.”

“It really is a tough choice,” Cyra agreed with Nicole.

“I’m going to take the spell one,” Nicole said, trying to put on a brave face. “I’ll get the perk I want next time.” Her smile faltered as she picked up the third page, then took a seat on the floor. “I choose you.”

Jon knelt with her, holding her as the perk integrated into her body. Whispering softly to her, he tried to help soothe her sadness.

Cammie went up to the counter next. “Okay, Ria, show me what I get to pick from, please.”

Ria had collected Nicole’s unchosen perks, then put Cammie’s on the counter. She looked over all three before she spoke up. “I have Greater Poison Resistance as a choice. The Magical Trapper came up again, as well. It’s still a good one, especially if it upgrades. Lastly, I have ‘Spotter; I see you. Become adept at spotting ambushes.’”

“Hmm... the last two are good,” Cyra said. “I’d say the trap one has an edge, though.”

“Spotter is a well-known perk, and she would’ve been able to see at least half of the spiders if she’d had it,” Stern said. “A lot of overland hunters run dungeons just to get that perk. It would help with our travel between cities, too, especially as we go farther north.”

“If she’d had the trapper one, we can always keep it as a reserve,” Nicole said, having just finished with her change.

“True. A second ice trap in there might have hindered the scorpion a bit more,” Trish said.

“Tough call, Cammie,” Stern added in. “Either is useful. There’s no wrong pick there. The greater resistance likely would’ve made you immune to the boss scorpion’s sting.”

“I hope to never be in a position where it’s needed, and it might be helpful in later dungeons when the monsters set traps,” Cammie sighed. “I’ll take the trap one for now.”

Cammie picked up the perk, then went off to the side to lean against a wall. Trish went over to hold her as she accepted it, helping keep her stable as her body convulsed. Cyra looked at Stern, then moved to the counter.

“Cyra, here are your choices,” Ria said as she collected Cammie’s unchosen perks before laying down Cyra’s. “Pick well.”

Cyra looked over all of her choices like the others had before she said, “Improved Life Sense 3 is there again. ‘Greater Mirrored Ally; you and you, again and again. Mirrored Ally now usable three times a day.’ The last one is ‘Bulwark’s Ally; stand tall, I got you. Gives the target the ability to negate any one attack on them. Usable once per day. Ability only lasts one hour or until used.’”

“Damn,” Jon whistled. “You have a lot of good choices there.”

“Agreed,” Stern nodded. “All of them are useful.”

“The Life Sense upgrade would’ve let her find the ambushes if we’d been more cautious,” Nicole said. “More double healing would be good, too… wait... Could Mirrored Ally be used with Bulwark’s Ally?”

“I think so,” Cyra nodded. “Mirrored Ally copies an ability over to a second person.”

“Tough choice alright,” Trish said. “I think either of the last two outweigh Life Sense 3.”

“Bulwark,” Cammie said as she relaxed, her perk finished integrating with her. “You can always mirror it onto Trish and someone else that way. If we keep it for a boss fight, it could be huge.”

Cyra chewed her lip for a moment, then picked a page up. “Bulwark, it is. I hope the Greater Mirrored Ally comes back up again.”

Stern moved off to the side with her, holding her as she accepted her perk. He winced when he felt her jerk and shake in his arms— his parents had undersold how much worse the change would be.

“I’ll go next,” Jon said, stepping up to the counter.

“May the Goddess bless you,” Ria smiled as she set his perks out.

Taking a calming breath, Jon studied the pages. He looked them over, but one of them was the perk he’d hoped to see since he’d become a Walker. “There’s only one choice here for me,” he said, picking up the page. “‘Runic Crafter; add the edge Walkers want. You can add a single rune slot to your crafted items.’”

Trish whistled. “Every crafter wants that one. I don’t blame you for choosing it.”

“That’s one of the perks you’ve been waiting for,” Nicole said. She patted the ground next to where she was still sitting. “Come on. I’ll hold you this time.”

Stern was curious about what Jon’s other choices had been, but he knew how valuable that perk was for crafters; that single perk would mean that Jon could set up shop in almost any city and have business.

“I’ll go next,” Trish said, standing up. “Let’s see what the Goddess offers me.”

“Here you are, Trish,” Ria said, placing the perks before her. “Pick well.”

Trish picked up the first page. “Deforming Blow again. Still useful.” Setting it down, she pulled up the second page before snorting. “Runic Crafter for me, as well. Where was that perk when I was younger?”

“Still useful today,” Stern said. “Never know what life will bring us next.”

Trish gave him a smile, considering the fact that they were going to marry soon. Maybe that’ll mean we stop for a bit and have kids too? she mused before shaking her head. “Third page is...?” She picked it up, frowning at it. “‘Stand Your Ground; immovable object has nothing on me. Able to resist forced movement from any source. Usable three times per day.’”

“With the number of times things have shoved you around, that might be the best one from a fighting standpoint,” Cammie suggested as she stood up.

“The second and third, I think, beat the first one,” Cyra said softly. “Runic Crafter would go well with your crafting perks.”

Trish hesitated. She’d wanted Runic Crafter for years, and it was finally being offered to her. But she was the bulwark and needed to be able to stand strong for her crew, too. She glanced at Stern. “Pawly?”

Stern smiled as he summoned Pawly into the shop.

Pawly meowed at him questioningly.

“Trish needs help with her perk,” Stern said as he gave Pawly flying. “Help her out?”

Pawly floated over to Trish, purring as she rubbed against the armored bulwark.

“Thanks. It’s between these two,” Trish said as she pushed one back to Ria. “Take that one, please.”

Ria touched the page and it vanished. “A tough choice.”

Pawly floated over the counter, staring down at the pages. Rolling over, she looked at Trish intently for a moment. Trish shivered when her near-colorless eyes met hers. They were identical to Stern’s, and it was disconcerting to her at that moment. After a few heartbeats, Pawly sat down and pushed a page toward Trish.

Trish picked up the paper. “I’ve wanted this for years. Not every perk needs to be combat-related.”

“And you got a big one last time,” Stern added as he went to her side.

“Over here, Trish,” Cyra said, patting the ground. Cammie was kneeling beside the spot, as well.

Trish looked at the pair, then Stern. “Thanks.” She kissed his cheek before joining the other two.

As Trish accepted the page, Pawly moved so Ria could collect the last. Ria met Stern’s gaze as she spread his perks out. Stern started to reach for the first paper when Pawly flopped onto two of them, leaving just the third uncovered.

“Hey, fur-face,” Stern laughed. “I need to check those.”

Pawly chuffed, pushing the page toward him.

“Fine, I’ll look at this one… first…” He trailed off when he read the page. “This one’s kind of important, isn’t it?” He started petting Pawly on reflex, staring at it.

“What is it?” Nicole asked.

“‘Double Summons; why only have one friend beside you? Able to have two summons out at a time.’” He read it out, then looked back at the others.

“Take it,” Cyra said, meeting his eyes.

“It would make you feel better, and add more utility to the crew,” Cammie said.

“If Pawly had been there, too, the boss might have been easier,” Jon added. “Her electricity could’ve stunned it.”

“We can have them both out to pet,” Nicole said, then coughed when everyone looked at her. “I mean... to help us fight.”

Stern laughed at her obvious slip up. He looked at Trish, who was panting as she finished accepting her new perk. “Trish?”

“She told you to, and honestly, there would be few perks that could match that for you,” Trish said. “If you want it, do it, and then come over here so we can hold you.”

Stern looked back at Pawly. She’d wiggled onto her back, still obscuring the other perks. “Someone will be getting a fish all to herself tonight. Thank you.”

Pawly purred louder as she felt his love for her, and she returned it to him.

Taking the page, he joined his lovers. He lay down with his head on Cyra’s lap while Trish and Cammie took his hands, resting the paper on his chest. “I accept this perk.” The moment the words left his mouth, it burst into golden light and infused him. The sensation of having his entire being changed was worse, but he gritted his teeth, knowing that soon, he’d be able to have both of his furry friends beside him.

Chapter Twenty-eight

By the time Stern was cognizant of his surroundings again, Ria was gone. “Goddess, that really does suck... No idea how my parents manage it.”

“Higher-tiered Walkers?” Jon asked.

“Yeah, a bit higher,” Stern chuckled. “They’ll be coming down to visit us in the near future.”

“Will that be okay?” Nicole asked hesitantly.

“It’ll be fine. My parents are good people. They helped raise me, even with my troubles.”

“We trust you, Stern,” Jon said. “You good to go?”

Stern grunted as he got to his feet, his lovers standing with him. “Let me just check this,” Stern said. “Pawly, go home.”

Pawly meowed, then faded away.

“Why send her away?” Cammie asked.

“I’m going to try summoning both at once.”

“Oh, because each comes from a different hand,” Cyra said. “I’ve paid attention.”

“Exactly. I also want to see if I can apply buffs to both at once, and if I can buff just one if both are out.”

“Ah, testing it out,” Jon nodded. He and Nicole stepped to the side to give him more room.

Shaking his arms, Stern began to call his two friends to him. His fingers moved through the sequences perfectly and, a second later, both Pawly and Zasha were standing there. After another moment, both were much larger, and Stern nodded. His fingers flexed again and Pawly floated off the ground.

“Zasha, could you spit stone right now?” Stern asked.

Zasha shook himself, whining lightly.

“If we weren’t in the shop right now, could you?” Stern clarified.

Zasha’s head cocked to the side before he whined again.

“No, that’s good,” Stern smiled. “That means I can give you buffs together or individually.”

Zasha barked and stood upright, looking up at Pawly with a big doggy grin. Pawly floated down, laying on Zasha’s back.

Cyra snickered, causing Cammie to chuckle and Trish to snort.

Nicole giggled. “She’s asserting who’s on top.”

“Cat,” Stern chuckled, reverting the size increases for both the summons.

Pawly floated up when Stern did, but in their normal forms, they were equal in size— Pawly was a large cat and Zasha was a large puppy.

Taking a knee, Stern held out his hand. “Thank you, Zasha. You did a great job for us.”

Zasha moved forward to get petted, grinning happily.

Stern looked up, holding out his other hand. “Thank you for understanding, Pawly. I was worried you’d get upset with me.”

Pawly sneezed down at him, making Stern splutter and wipe at his face. Then, she brushed against his chest, purring.

“Yeah, okay... so I’m an idiot at times,” Stern sighed. “No need to sneeze on me for it.”

The others laughed when they understood.

“She’s a cat,” Jon snorted. “And, I hate to remind you, but we have to climb ladders up to get out of the dungeon.”

“Oh, right,” Stern nodded. “Zasha, go home, boy. We’ll call you back in a bit.”

Zasha sank into the floor, a happy grin on his face the whole time.

“Shards to turn in, and a rebirth to start,” Trish said. “If one of those idiots gets in our way, I’m going to hurt them.”

“As long as we don’t kill them, it should be fine,” Stern said grimly at the thought.

With that being the final word, they left the shop behind, stepping out of the portal.

The guard on duty at the bottom of the shaft gave them a nod. “It’s clear. Go ahead.”

Pawly floated ahead of them as they climbed out of the dungeon hole. The guards up top stepped aside for them, and the captain gave them an appraising look. “Your crew made it out before the other. If you encounter them again, please try to just walk away from them. We’d prefer not having two crews fight in the city.”

“Sir, we’ll do our best,” Stern said levelly, “but if they attack us, we will defend ourselves.”

“Wouldn’t ask you not to. Just asking you to walk away if possible.”

“We’ll do our best.”

“Thank you. Did you collect the shards you were after?”

“We did. We’re going to hand them off for a rebirth now.”

The captain bowed his head. “May they have a good life. Thank you for pulling a lost soul out.”

“It’s what we do. Please excuse us.”

“Of course,” the captain said, stepping aside. “Good day to you.”

“May your shift end peacefully,” Stern replied.

“From your lips to the Goddess’ ears.”

As they walked, Stern summoned Zasha back. The happy hound chuffed and walked along with them, looking all around.

“He’s happy to be with us,” Cyra smiled at Zasha, slowing down to walk beside him. “With us and not having to fight or search.”

Zasha barked, prancing a little for her.

“He’s a happy boy,” Jon chuckled. “I do miss…” He trailed off, his smile falling away.

“I wish I got to meet him,” Nicole said softly, taking his hand.

“Yeah... Banjo was a good boy, too. He’d have liked you.”

“Still with your family?” Stern asked.

“He was twelve when I left to go study with my uncle,” Jon said softly. “He’s probably passed by now.”

“That’s always hard,” Trish said. “We had a cat when I was a kid. She was an elderly cat that mostly slept, but she would purr all the time if you petted her. A loud, deep purr of true contentment. We called her Lady, because she always acted dignified and regal.”

Pawly floated down to Trish, purring.

Trish petted her. “You would’ve liked her. She passed before I went to become a Walker. It was a while ago, so I’m at peace with it now. I’m just glad we won’t have to worry about you and Zasha.”

Pawly floated beside Trish, enjoying the pets.

Entering the Walkers’ hall, they paused when the room went quiet. Stern looked over the room, then remembered that Marvella was barred from the hall, meaning she was likely waiting at the temple.

“Did you do it?” someone asked from the crowd.

“We pulled the shards,” Stern said as he started walking toward the Rescue Squad desk. “Sir,” he addressed Zander at the desk when he got there, “we have three shards for Maverna Culnand.”

“Let me see them, please,” Zander said.

Stern placed the three shards on the desk. Zander checked each, then handed them back. “Take these to the temple to start the rebirth. I’ll have your coin—”

“Place all of it on our recovery funds,” Stern said, “including the little bit from this part. You’ll know when we complete it.”

“Very well, Walker.”

Stern put the shards away, then led his group away.

“Hey! Where did the dog come from?” a random voice asked from the crowd.

“Zasha is another of my summons,” Stern said.

The crowd, which had started whispering to each other, went silent again. A Walker with a summons wasn’t exactly common, and a Walker with two summons was rare, but one who could have them both out was on the extreme side of rare. The hall exploded with conversation shortly after the crew left. Everyone wondered how he’d managed to get so many perks for his summons, as many had seen Pawly earlier.

“That’s going to cause a stir,” Jon said as they headed for the temple.

“Yeah, but maybe it’ll get people to see irregulars differently. We’ve been seeing how odd the perk choices can be, and how some very valuable perks can appear. Maybe it’ll prompt them to see about grouping up with one of us?”

“That would be good for those who come after us,” Nicole said. “Maybe even Marvella and her sister will find people easier.”

“That’s a good thought, I hope it’s true,” Stern nodded.

~*~*~

It wasn’t a long walk to the temple, as it was closer than some others had been. When they came into sight of the temple, Marvella sprang to her feet; she’d been sitting on a bench next to the edifice. Seeing them, her one eye teared up and she started walking their way. She quickly sped up until she was nearly running when she reached them.

“Yes?!”

“We have them,” Stern said gently. “The Rescue Squad gave us a quest to turn them over to the sisters.”

Marvella nodded frantically. “Yes, come on!” She grabbed Stern’s arm and started dragging him with her.

Stern stretched out his long legs so he wasn’t being dragged behind her, but instead walking beside her. “Easy, Marvella. We’re not going to flee with them.”

She let go of his arm, letting out a shuddering breath. “Sorry. It’s just… she’s so close now… and I…” The words were broken with emotion.

Stern patted her back. “I understand. By this time tomorrow, you’ll be hugging her again.”

Marvella sobbed once before choking her emotions back. “Yes... Thank you... for everything.”

“Just doing what we should all do, but you’re welcome. I hope she finds happiness.”

“I’ll help her,” Marvella said as she wiped at her good eye.

The temple only had four people being seen to by the acolytes, leaving a couple free. The closest hurried over to them when they entered. “How can I help you?” She stared at Stern with concern.

Stern pulled out the shards. “Three of Maverna Culnand’s shards, sister. This is her sister, here to see her reborn.”

Another acolyte hurried into the back, no doubt to get the remaining shard to start the rebirth. The first acolyte took the three shards, smiling brightly. “We’ll get her started right away.”

A third acolyte came over to guide Marvella after the first. She went with them, crying again, as she was only a day away from seeing her sister again. The crew watched her go, their hearts feeling both happy and sad.

“We’ll come back tomorrow,” Stern said softly. “Come on. We have a meal to celebrate helping bring another soul back.”

As they slipped out of the temple, a single acolyte watched them go. She wore a smile and bowed her head to their backs, sending a prayer in their names to the Goddess.

~*~*~

When they made it to the inn, it was bustling with loud conversations. The noise dropped off quickly when they walked inside.

The innkeeper called out to them, “There they are! They’re the ones who pulled a soul out today. A Walker came by and paid for drinks for everyone, telling us the news. Already dropped the shards off?”

“We did,” Stern said. “Another soul is being reborn. We’ve managed this in every town we’ve been to since the crew was founded. We know not every crew can manage that, and we’d never ask you to hinder yourselves, but if you could spare enough points for a single shard each time you run, and if every crew did the same, think about how much good could be done for the fallen.”

The crowd had become a bit more somber as he spoke.

“I didn’t mean to dampen your spirits,” he said. “I just think about all those still waiting for their rebirths. As for today, right now, we should celebrate a person given another chance at life.” He looked at the bartender. “Wine, please.”

Trish was a little surprised at his order, but she ordered something for herself, too, with the rest of the crew following. Instead of going to change and clean up right away, they shared a drink with the crowd. A few came over to ask about the run so, as a group, they explained the dungeon and the difficulties it presented.

Someone asked what they would’ve done if not for Zasha. Stern gave them ideas about how Trish would’ve been their front line, and how much slower and more cautious they would’ve needed to be.

In time, they excused themselves. The bathing rooms had been set aside for them by the innkeeper, so they cleaned up quickly, then retreated back to their room for dinner. When the meal ended, they separated to sleep. It was a little early, but they were tired from their dungeon run.

Cammie snagged Trish on the way to bed, taking the bulwark with her into her room. Stern gave Trish a knowing grin and blew her a kiss before he went with Cyra into their room for the night.

Chapter Twenty-nine

Soft kisses woke Stern. “Morning, Cyra,” Stern murmured happily.

“Good morning,” Cyra whispered back. “Gear check, lunch, and then to the temple?”

“Probably. We’ll check with Jon and Nicole during breakfast.”

“Trish stayed with her all night.”

“Yeah... it gives me hope. I hope Trish didn’t press.”

“She told me she wouldn’t,” Cyra said.

“Fair, but I’m not sure her ‘not pushing’ is the same as ours.”

Cyra’s lips pursed, then she nodded. “That’s true... but if it had gone bad, Trish would’ve come to bed with us.”

“I’ll concede that point.”

“I just hope it works out,” Cyra whispered. “I really like Cammie, and hope she’ll join us as more than just a friend.”

Stern stroked one of her ears. “Me, too, Cyra... me, too.”

Snuggling against him, Cyra sighed happily as he petted her ear. It was a comforting feeling, and she enjoyed it when he or Trish did it.

“We should get up,” Stern said after a few minutes.

“We should,” Cyra agreed. She shifted to kiss him, then got up.

Stern watched his lover get out of bed. He knew how his life had gone, but he was still unsure of how it had gone so well. Pulling Cyra’s shards had started him on this path. I wouldn’t change it for the world, he smiled to himself before he got out of bed.

The pair dressed quickly, then stepped out of the bedroom. No one was visible in the living room until Stern saw the couch. Zasha and Pawly were curled up, butt to butt, taking up the entire sofa. Both raised their heads at the same time when he saw them.

“I’m glad you two get along,” Stern said.

“It would’ve been bad if they hadn’t,” Cyra said.

Zasha gave them a happy doggy grin while Pawly meowed softly.

“Yes, I’m happy,” Stern said. “I’m about to go order breakfast. I have to remember that I need a serving for you, too, Zasha.”

Zasha let out a soft bark as he got down off the sofa.

“Yeah, but you stay up here. I’ll be back shortly,” Stern laughed.

Cammie’s bedroom door opening caught his attention. Trish and Cammie came out of her room, both dressed and smiling. “Good morning to you both,” Trish smirked.

“Good morning,” Cammie added only a second behind Trish.

“Sleep well?” Stern asked.

“Eventually,” Trish snickered.

Cammie flushed, but was smiling. “We... umm... had some fun first.”

Trish gently stroked Cammie’s hair. “We sure did. I was very happy.”

“Good,” Cyra grinned as she hurried over to hug them.

“I’ll go get breakfast,” Stern said, shutting down his overactive imagination.

“I’ll come with you,” Cammie said after hugging Cyra.

“Now?” Trish asked with an eyebrow wiggle.

“You’re terrible,” Cyra laughed, batting Trish’s arm.

“I’m at my best when I am,” Trish laughed back. “See you two in a bit.”

Stern paused by the door so Cammie could accompany him. When they left the room together, Cammie touched his arm to stop him. Stern paused and gave her a questioning look.

“We went a little further. I… wanted more. Was that okay?” Cammie asked, looking up at him.

Stern touched her cheek gently. “Yes. I hope that this relationship expands to you, as well. It makes me nervous, but I’m elated. You’re moving faster than I thought you would, and I’m perfectly fine with that.”

Cammie exhaled the breath she’d been holding, and a bright smile came to her. “Thank the Goddess... It wasn’t until Trish and I went to sleep that I worried I might’ve gone too far.”

Stern took a knee so he was on equal height with her. “None of us have an opinion of how fast or slow you should go. All three of us are very hopeful, but I think all of us just don’t want to break the friendship we have.”

Cammie swallowed, then moved in, straddling his leg as she hugged him. She paused inches from his face, staring into his eyes. “Nothing will break the friendship I have with you unless you force me away. Maybe I’m an idiot for wanting to join your growing family, being third in—”

“No,” Stern cut her off gently. “Not third. You’d be equal. There are no ranks in our relationship.”

Cammie swallowed the lump in her throat, then kissed him. It was passionate, but slow— she wanted him to feel her love bloom for him. Stern kissed her back in equal measure, wanting her to know that he returned that passion and love. While he could feel her, she couldn’t feel him, so he had to show her.

“In the hallway? Get a room,” a woman snorted when she went past them.

Cammie went to pull away, but Stern held her, continuing their kiss. He’d felt her embarrassment, but he wasn’t ashamed of their love, and he wanted her to know that. Her embarrassment fell away, replaced by more love.

When their kiss finally stopped, Cammie was fully sitting on his leg. She flushed, biting her lip as she met his eyes.

“I’ll never feel embarrassed or ashamed over showing you affection in front of others,” Stern said softly. “I admit my feelings for you, Cammie.”

Cammie’s heart melted, her love for him spiking. She kissed him again; hot, heated, and impassioned, she pushed into his chest and leg, letting her love and lust radiate out. Stern’s soft moan as he tightened his arms around her made her happy, even more so when their tongues dueled briefly.

Another door opening didn’t stop them, nor did the person who laughed as he went by them. “Damn, you two. The hallway isn’t the place for that.”

The moment lasted a few minutes before they broke apart again. Stern met her eyes, letting her emotions soak into him. “When you’re ready, we’ll welcome you.”

Cammie swallowed as she nodded. “Could I have just you tonight?”

Stern’s smile was soft. “Sure.”

“Then... the night after... all of us?” Cammie asked slowly.

“They’ll be thrilled,” Stern told her.

“And, maybe… if that’s all wonderful, I can be their equal?”

“I’ll be happy to ask you to be with us then,” Stern assured her.

Cammie’s hope and love soared to new heights, and she crashed into him, hugging him tightly as tears started to spill. “Thank you!”

Her emotions became a maelstrom, but Stern held her back. He was sure the “thank you” had been for so much more than just this moment. He held her back just as tightly, wanting to help her calm herself again.

~*~*~

Breakfast and checking their gear took up a good part of their morning. They didn’t have a lot to repair, but they did have to replace a chunk of their medicinal items. They opted to go out as a crew to get the things they needed, including trap parts for Cammie.

The shop owner had been surprised to see the full crew. Very few crews shopped together, and these six were suggesting items to their trap finder. Cammie considered each of their ideas, accepting most, but rejecting a few. When they finished getting her supplies, they trooped over to the alchemist.

The young woman there was equally shocked to see them all, but was soon smiling when they started buying. She had a dozen antivenoms, a couple of salve tins, and other odds and ends on the counter by the time they’d finished with their list. She gave them a small discount because they bought in bulk, thanking them for the business.

That left them with a couple of hours before the rebirth, so they found a local eatery for lunch. Conversation was light and the food was delicious, with them all opting for different dishes to sample. The end effect was similar to a family meal, giving them the option of trying bites of the different entrees.

Cammie whispered to Trish her plan to spend the night with Stern as the meal wound down.

“Really? That’s great news,” Trish grinned. “If I’d known you were going to do that, I would’ve gone even further last night.”

Cammie went red and Cyra giggled.

“You have an odd relationship,” Jon said.

“But it’s sweet,” Nicole smiled. “It’s obvious you all care for each other.”

“We do,” Stern agreed.

“I want to be with them fully, not on the outside, looking in,” Cammie admitted softly. “I love them, care for them, and I want to spend the rest of my life with them.”

“I’m not finding fault with your reasons,” Jon said quickly. “I just find it odd. I mean, multiple partners isn’t unheard of. It’s actually more common for Walkers. That was even true before Darkhand, who has the best-known multi-partner relationship…” Jon started to chuckle. “Actually, it’ll be a lot like them. The other two people in their crew are married like Nicole and I, too.”

Stern managed to keep his face impassive, though he was sure Jon and Nicole would be shocked to find out who his parents were. Well, they’ll find out in Blackwood, he thought.

“Not bad role models for us, then,” Trish chuckled. “Rescue Squad team one is a hell of a standard to emulate.”

“I’m no Hand of Law,” Jon laughed.

“No, but you love Nicole as much as he loves his wife,” Stern said.

“Oh? You’ve met them?”

Stern nodded. “Yeah. I’ve talked with all of Darkhand.”

“Wow,” Jon said, looking impressed. “I didn’t think they came south much.”

“They used to, for family camping trips, to make it safer for their children. When the eldest grew up, they stopped coming as far south.”

“That must’ve been something,” Nicole whispered. “I hear they have a large family.”

“That might be an understatement,” Stern snorted. “Nine kids between them. Three children per wife.”

“Goodness,” Nicole whispered. “I hope for kids, but nine would be too many.”

“Three would be okay, though, wouldn’t it?” Jon asked her gently.

She gave him a bright smile. “I’d be okay with three.”

“Not sure I’m up for three kids, myself,” Trish said, giving Stern a smirk. “At least one would be good.”

“I’d be okay with two or three,” Cyra said with hopeful eyes.

Cammie flushed. “I’m not sure, but I’m not opposed to the idea of kids.”

“Sounds like you’ll have a large family in time, too,” Jon chuckled, nudging Stern.

“Yeah, and they’ll all be loved,” Stern said softly. “My parents are good role models for that, and they’ll spoil the hell out of my children.”

“You’re still on good terms with them?” Nicole asked.

“Haven’t seen them in a little over a year now, but when I left home, yes. You’ll hopefully still be with us when they come to meet us.”

“Oh? Is that soon?” Nicole asked, suddenly nervous.

“They’ll embrace you as a friend, Nicole. You have nothing to worry about with them. They raised me.”

Nicole sniffled at the idea of parents who loved their irregular child. “That would be nice...”

Jon leaned over to hold her. “It’s okay, love.”

Nicole turned into him, holding him as she sniffled. “Sorry.”

“No,” Jon said gently. “You have nothing to apologize for. My family isn’t all bad. You read the letter from my sister. She’s asked to meet us in Blackwood. She wants to meet you.”

“But what if she hates me?”

“How could she?” Trish interjected. “You bring Jon happiness. It would be selfish of her to ignore the love you two have.”

“She isn’t Father,” Jon whispered. “It’ll be alright.”

Nicole sniffled, nodding against his chest. “I just worry that I’ll cost you more.”

“You have cost me nothing. You’ve only given to me. You gave me love, joy, and happiness. I lost dross that didn’t appreciate the joy you bring me.”

Nicole began to sob, holding him tightly.

Stern was glad he couldn’t feel her emotions at that moment, as he was sure he’d be sobbing, too. “For what it’s worth, we consider the two of you friends. And please, don’t take this the wrong way, but I think you’ll be as close as family in time. Dad calls his crew family, even those not married to him. We share hardships, pain, blood, and adversity together. There’s also the joy, happiness, and camaraderie we have. He says, ‘They might not be blood-related or married to us, but they’re family.’”

Nicole slowly calmed. When she was back to sniffling, she nodded. “Thank you... I never thought I’d have friends like you. I’ve had a lot of happiness since we met.”

“It’s been nice,” Jon agreed.

“We need to go,” Trish said softly. “The rebirth should be soon.”

Nicole sat back and pulled her hood over her head, bowing so no one could see her, then wiped at her face.

“Give her a moment. She has to remove her mask to manage this,” Jon said.

“That’s fine,” Cyra said. “We’re here to help as much as we can.”

Chapter Thirty

Stern walked side-by-side with Cammie as they approached the temple. He was still fully coming to terms with the fact that he could enter the place and no longer feel the pain and sadness he’d always associated with them.

“Do you think they’ll find a crew?” Cammie asked.

“With Marvella beside her? Yeah. With all the perks she has, they should be able to find others. I’d be surprised if she didn’t have Trish’s level of protection, at least.”

“There is that,” Cammie agreed. “I meant with Maverna being irregular.”

“Might be a little tougher, but with what we’ve shown the other Walkers, still yes. I think a lot of them have mellowed their stances on irregulars.”

“Except stupid and his buddy,” Cammie snorted.

“Some people are just steeped in their hatred. It’s sad that they can’t take a step back and look at it from a different angle. What’s worse is that people like them exist everywhere. Makes me wonder what an irregular instructor might accomplish at the lowest tier. Maybe it would be enough to jar them into reconsidering their views earlier in life.”

“Did you do that?”

“No. I was terrible then. All the anger and hatred around me, with my empathy… I was a colossal dick. An asshole to almost everyone all the time.”

“Except when you came into my shop,” Trish said from behind him.

“I was a dick, and your reaction was confusing to me. The anger, hate, and sadness… and the edge of love and hope. You nearly threw me out and I was kind of abrasive when you told me to leave.”

“Then Pawly jumped up on the counter.” Trish chuckled. She looked at where Pawly floated just above Zasha. She was dangling her paw and resting it on the dog’s collar, as if she was guiding him. “She made me reconsider, and then you requested your armor. That got me interested in who you were. Why didn’t your parents send you off with armor?”

“I was still a growing boy when I left, I would needed any they gave me modified at least.”

“Still the same as you were the day we met,” Trish chuckled.

“While we’ve changed,” Cyra said softly. “I’ve put on muscle and some padding, and you’ve trimmed down, showing your muscles more.”

“True. Yet there he stands, the exact same.”

“Like me and Jon,” Nicole said from the back of their procession. “I look exactly the same, but he’s filled out with muscle.”

“You’re perfect just the way you are to me,” Jon said, his arm around her waist.

“Not perfect,” she whispered, touching her mask. “Not yet...”

“That perk doesn’t make you less perfect to me, but I’ll not fight you on it,” Jon murmured.

“You two are so sweet,” Cyra smiled.

The conversation fell off as they entered the temple. It was nearly identical to the day before, with three differences: there was the golden outline of a wolf lykian laying atop the main altar, four glowing shards of a heart spinning in the air over the form, and there was one less injured person being tended to.

An acolyte by the door greeted them softly, the same woman who’d taken the shards from them before. “Welcome back, Walkers. Please, come this way,” she said before leading them up to where Marvella was standing.

Marvella’s eye flickered to them briefly before going back to the golden outline. “Thank you for coming. It should be soon.”

“We’d hoped we timed it right,” Stern said. “Are you ready for the impact?”

“I hope so. She might hate me… I brought her out before people accept irregulars,” Marvella whispered. The fear of her sister hating her was evident to all of them.

“She might be upset, but she won’t hate you,” Cyra said. “You love her and came to help her. Even if she yells and screams now, she won’t hate you. If she can read minds like you say, she’ll see your love for her.”

Marvella wiped at her one good eye. “Please, Goddess...” The two words were barely audible as she sent out a prayer to the divine being who watched over the world.

“It’s time,” the acolyte said, approaching the altar. The other sisters joined her to kneel and bow their heads, and a single clear note rang out from them in unison.

The golden form lifted into the air, floating behind the heart. A sense of peace washed over the room, and everyone who was able to looked toward the altar. The heart, which had been in four pieces and spinning, was now solid and slowed its revolutions. When it came to a stop, the heart and body moved until they occupied the same space.

An overwhelming presence weighed on everyone for a single breath. Then, the golden light vanished from the body, leaving Maverna in her leather armor, floating in the air. The presence vanished and the wolf lykian opened her colorless eyes. The acolytes rose to their feet, reaching out to guide Maverna to stand beside the altar.

“Welcome back,” the acolytes all said, smiling as they greeted the new reborn.

“What...? Is it time?” Maverna asked. Her eyes were wide as she looked around before she spotted them and her sister. “Mar? Why are you…?” She trailed off, her eyes locked on to her crying sister. Then, she began to cry, too. “Idiot!” The word was loud, but it was gentle. Before anyone could react, Maverna lunged, tackling her sister and hugging her tightly as she cried. “I could never, ever, hate you! Fool... idiot... moron!”

Marvella cried hard, deep, racking sobs as she held her sister back. “I love you, Sis...! Always love you...”

“I know,” Maverna sobbed. “I know...”

Stern was glad he couldn’t feel them, but even without that, he was tearing up. Some of the others sniffled, doing their best to not cry. Nicole wept openly, holding Jon as she watched the sisters. She felt a pang of what might’ve been if her parents hadn’t rejected her slam into her heart.

After a few minutes, the sisters got to their feet, wiping away tears and snot. Maverna started to thank them when she stared at Stern, her mouth falling open. Stern bowed his head to her as she tried to find the words.

“Yeah, just like you. Well... not exactly like you.”

“Empathy...? Oh, Goddess,” Maverna said as she read his mind. “Wait, you found a perk?!”

“Just recently. There’s hope for you.”

When her eyes fell on Nicole, she gasped again. “Oh…! No… Goddess.”

Nicole ducked her head against Jon. “Sorry.”

“No!” Maverna said quickly, darting forward to hug Nicole. “No... I’m sorry. I’m so sorry for you.”

Jon had been too shocked to try stopping the wolf lykian, and now, he stared at her. Maverna looked at him before she stepped back, bowing her head.

“At least she has you. You love her so much,” Maverna sniffled. “Both of them have people who love them…”

“So do you,” Stern said gently. “Sisterly love, but it’s a start.”

Marvella licked her lips. “Sis?”

Maverna collapsed to her knees, hugging herself. “The world still hates us...”

“Yeah, it does,” Stern agreed. He shifted to kneel beside her, touching her shoulder. “Look at me, please?”

Maverna did so slowly, and she stared into his colorless eyes. His past raced into her mind as Stern showed her what he and his friends had been doing since they formed the crew. He showed her how people had started to open up to them, but also Billy and company, not shying away from the bad.

Maverna finally pulled her gaze away, shuddering. “Okay... I understand. Mar will help me. You think I can do the same?”

“If you don’t buckle,” Stern said gently. “You saw the pain, but there’s joy with the right crew. Your sister came back to help you. She wants to be here with you. I believe if you run, you’ll find your perk.”

Maverna gazed at the floor, then nodded. “But you found yours when there were two of you... she hasn’t found hers yet, either.”

Stern couldn’t refute that logic. “True, but we get offered unusual perks. If you stay with your sister and build a crew around you, you’ll have a chance. Maybe not in this dungeon or the next, but you’ll find it.”

Marvella knelt down beside her sister. “Sis, I’m here. We’ll build a solid crew, not ones who hate you.”

“I’m just so tired of it,” Maverna exhaled roughly. “He has an idea of what I faced, but he only felt their emotions. He never had to see what they thought. Never had to see the hatred or deal with the lewd…” She shuddered as she trailed off.

“People are dicks,” Stern said. “Focus on your sister. You should know she was banned from the Walkers’ hall for a few days. She punched one of those assholes.”

“He deserved it,” Marvella growled.

“Agreed.”

“You really believe the Goddess will let me find my perk?” Maverna asked as she pulled herself together again.

“Yes. You might even find someone like Jon, Cyra, Trish, or Cammie. Your perk will make that even harder. You’ll know everything they think. It was hard enough with emotions. Just… give anyone who is interested a little slack? Most men can’t help having some thoughts about people they’re interested in.”

“Every man,” Maverna snorted. “Horn dogs, the lot of you… not for me, normally, but even when your eyes go to them, there’s a bit of thought about things.”

Stern coughed, shrugging. “Like I said...”

“I can handle it when it’s directed elsewhere. It was the men who were disgusted with me, but still imagined doing things, that really hurt me.”

“I’ll hurt them if they hurt you,” Marvella said simply. “Just tell me who.”

Maverna snorted. “And have you banned from the hall for even longer? No, idiot. I’ll only get you involved if they cross a line.”

“Okay.”

“What happened to your eye?”

“Being a Walker is dangerous,” Marvella said softly. “Come on. I’ll take you to the home I rented. I’ll make you dinner and we can talk.”

“Home you rented...?” It was then that Maverna saw her sister’s badge. “Gold? You came all the way back here? For me?”

“I wanted my sister beside me,” Marvella said firmly. “I still have at least a single run open in each dungeon. It took years for me to find out about what had happened to you.”

“Sorry, Sis...” Maverna said, getting them both to their feet. “I’ll be fine now with you beside me.”

“I should’ve come back and run with you from the start,” Marvella said. “There was only a two-year gap between us.”

“I would’ve felt bad if you had,” Maverna said. “I still feel a little bad now, but I’m accepting it, because I can see how much you mean it.”

Before they left, the sisters turned to thank the crew, wishing them well on their next run.

“Our next run will be Blackwood,” Stern said. “We’ll be here for another week or so to train before we head out. If you want to talk, we’re at the Slumbering Night.”

“Thank you,” Maverna said, then hugged each of them. “I’ll do my best, and pray as I always have.”

“Will you stop if you find the perk?” Cyra asked.

Maverna hesitated, considering it. “That’ll depend on my sister.”

“I’ll be beside you as far as you want to go,” Marvella said. “When you stop, so will I. I’d rather spend time with my family.”

“We’ll see,” Maverna smiled before the two wolf-sisters left.

Chapter Thirty-one

Stern smiled down at the blond hair hiding the face pressed against his chest. The memory of the previous night came back to him as he held Cammie: they’d left the sisters after the temple. Jon and Nicole went back to the inn, but Stern and his lovers went to the park. They spent the day relaxing and taking in the limited green spaces inside the city, then shared a celebratory dinner with their friends that evening, happy that Maverna seemed ready to try life again.

When they’d finished their dinner, Cammie took Stern by the hand, leading him into her room. Cyra and Trish watched them go with happiness and love in their hearts. Stern was glad those were the only emotions he felt from them— if either had felt any hint of sadness or jealousy, he would’ve had to postpone things.

It had been a little awkward with Cammie when they were finally alone in her room. She was so uncertain and shy, but also eager and hopeful. It was rare that Stern was the one to lead during an intimate moment, as Trish was very dominant with him and Cyra. It started the same way as their previous night had— with light touches and kisses— but with clothing shed this time.

Cammie felt self-conscious about her body in front of him, but Stern whispered only praise for her, then lavished her body with attention. His insistence on her beauty, along with his hands and lips on her body, dispelled any self-doubts she had.

When they were both naked and Stern didn’t rush to take her, she felt a spike of fear that he was going to leave her. He took his time exploring her from top to bottom, then returned to the places that she loved the most; her love for him expanded to near bursting. As he brought her to climax time and again, she went limp, just letting him pleasure her.

In time, he did what she’d hoped and feared, but their joining had her already blissful body buzzing even more. His soft praises whispered in her ear had her love burning even brighter for him.

After they’d finished, he held her to him, thanking her for loving him. She cried a little, thanking him for everything before pushing him onto his back and having her way with him. After they’d finished a second time, they fell asleep with Stern holding Cammie against him.

Maybe this will all work out like we hope, Stern thought. She felt nothing but love once we got past her doubts... She has a lot of love and hope in her, even more than she had before.

“Mhm?” Cammie murmured as she stirred against him.

“Good morning, Cammie,” Stern whispered, kissing the top of her head.

Tilting her head up, her blond hair fell away from her sleepy face. “Morning... is it time for breakfast?”

“Probably,” Stern admitted. “How do you feel?”

“A little sore,” Cammie giggled, “but good.”

Stern felt her love and hope, making him smile broader. “Good. I was worried that you might change your mind this morning.”

“Never,” Cammie murmured, shifting to claim his lips with hers.

The kiss lingered as both of them enjoyed the moment of connection.

When their kiss ended, Stern sighed lightly. “Come on, we need to get going. I’m sure Trish and Cyra are waiting. Probably hopeful and a touch worried.”

“Worried about me?” Cammie asked. A small kernel of fear began to grow in her.

“Worried that we didn’t find our love for each other,” Stern said soothingly. “I’m sure they’ll be beside themselves, eager and hopeful, for tonight.”

Her fear died just as quickly as it had appeared. “Oh... So am I.”

“I know, I can feel it along with the deep love you have for me, and for them.”

“If we are all happy…” Cammie trailed off.

“I’ll give you a ring, and you’ll marry me with them,” Stern said, knowing what she was going to say.

She crushed herself to him, hugging him tightly. “Thank you.”

“Thank you for loving me and those I love.”

Cammie sniffled. “I’m so lucky you all agreed to let me. I was so worried that I was being an idiot to even ask, but you all just welcomed me and told me it would be okay to try.”

“It was, and is,” Stern murmured. He kissed her hair again, as her face was pressed to his chest.

“I hope they’re really okay with last night...” Cammie whispered as she shifted, getting out of bed suddenly.

Feeling her anxiousness growing, he followed her out of bed. He got dressed, but let his eyes stray to her occasionally. Cammie flushed when she caught him watching her, but she giggled, happy that he was.

“Am I really that beautiful?” she asked as she got her boots on.

“Yes. All of us think you’re beautiful,” Stern said, standing up. “They’ll watch you just like I was.”

Flushing, Cammie felt like she owned the world at that moment. “I hope they do. I want to watch them dress and undress, too.”

Stern chuckled as he took her hand in his. “Together.”

Taking a deep breath, Cammie opened the door, leading Stern out. Trish and Cyra were on the sofa, petting Pawly and Zasha. The duo smiled broadly as Cammie and Stern came out of the room.

“Well, good morning,” Trish smirked. “I know that look. He’s very attentive, isn’t he?”

Cammie blushed, then nodded. “He made it all about me.”

“He enjoys spoiling us like that,” Cyra giggled. “How are you?”

“Good... but I was worried about how you’d both feel about us coming out. Seeing you both smile dispelled those fears... Though… can you heal me?”

Trish laughed, and Cyra did as Cammie asked, even as she giggled.

“Thanks,” Cammie blushed. “I, uh... pulled a muscle when I wanted more.”

“Happens to all of us sometimes,” Trish grinned.

“I’ll go see about breakfast,” Stern said, kissing Cammie’s head. “Tonight will be even busier.”

Trish’s smile turned slightly predatory. “I’m looking forward to it. I’ve wanted more of Cammie since my night with her.”

Cammie had started to calm down, but now, she was an even darker shade of red. “Oh… uh, yes,” she said, biting her lip.

Cyra giggled again as she watched the byplay. “I’m looking forward to it, too.”

Stern left the room before he heard more— he was already reacting to the ideas. Being honest with himself, he was very much looking forward to the evening, as well. It was the last step to see if they were all as compatible as he hoped.

~*~*~

Breakfast came and went, leaving them to make plans for their time remaining in the city.

“We’ll do as we have before,” Stern said. “We’ll go over to the dojo for training, spend five days getting ourselves into better condition, and then head out to Blackwood.”

“Can we ask the sisters over for dinner the last night before we leave?” Cyra asked. “That way, we can wish them well on their own journey.”

“I second the idea,” Nicole added.

“Sure. Have to ask the hall where they’re staying to send a message over,” Stern said. “They might have started to put a crew together by then.”

“That would be good,” Trish said. “I was thinking... can we afford some specialty training for the next few days?”

“Yeah,” Stern said. “You want to get extra work in?”

“Specialty training?” Jon asked.

“The dojo offers courses based on your role with a crew,” Stern explained. “You, like me, would get mostly a general course, since you’re not focused on a role, but Nicole would get their casting course, and it would be tailored to her perks.”

“Oh... that might help me get better used to knowing when area spells are better,” Nicole said.

“And it’ll help me with my traps,” Cammie said.

“I’m okay with this, but it sounds expensive,” Jon said.

“Not as expensive as the mock dungeon,” Stern said, “but it does help with getting you used to your role.”

“Which I don’t have, but if it helps Nicole, I agree.”

“Okay. We’ll train like normal, break for a meal, and then train the courses before dinner. It’ll fill our days,” Stern told them.

“Which is fine,” Jon said. “I have to say, I’m looking forward to more training. Never thought I would, but it was fun.”

“I want to get better,” Nicole added.

“And we’ll help you,” Cyra smiled.

“This time, I can join you for it,” Trish added. “I was sad to miss most of it in Mistwood.”

“Sounds like we have plans in place,” Stern smiled. “As soon as everyone is ready, we’ll head out.”

~*~*~

The Walker’s hall was nearly empty. It was early morning, meaning most Walkers were at the dungeon, getting ready for their runs. Issa and Zander gave them curious looks as the crew crossed the room to them.

“How can I help you?” Issa asked when Stern stopped in front of her desk.

“We wanted to send a message to Maverna and Marvella. I thought you might know where they were. To clarify, I’m not asking you to tell me. I just want to pass a message to them.”

“Yes. We don’t give out locations, but I will allow you to send a message, since you helped them.”

“It’s really simple. I wanted to ask them to have dinner with us in five days over at Slumbering Night.”

“Oh. Yes, I can do that.”

“How was she?” Zander asked, cutting in.

“She was glad her sister was there, and is going to try again,” Stern said. “If someone could compile a list of people who would be understanding with them as a crew member, that would help.”

“Hmm... they would need to ask me themselves,” Issa said, “but I can compile one in case they do. Marvella is still banned for a few days, so it’s unlikely she will.”

“She might,” Stern disagreed. “Finding compatible members will be hard enough for them.”

“With people like Pure Walkers, that’s entirely true,” Issa said flatly. “If only we could ban some from being Walkers... The Goddess has decreed that everyone is allowed to run the dungeons, though, so it would do no good.”

“True, but that also means that those deserving are always allowed to run, regardless of what those in power might think,” Zander added. “I’m glad she’s not giving up. We’ll do what we can.”

Issa gave Zander a look, then sighed. “As my husband says. With your crew showing one example and the idiots another, it should be easy to find those who are understanding. You want a long-term crew, not just this dungeon, correct?”

“If possible,” Stern nodded.

“Very well. If it was a single run, I’m certain I could find people.”

“If you can’t find longer term options, then use those?”

“That’s for the best. I’d also send word ahead of them if they moved on to the next city so the hall there could prepare for them.”

Stern gave her a bright smile. “Thank you.”

“Of course. Are you all moving on?”

“Not until we have dinner with them,” Trish cut in. “We’ll be taking some downtime and getting some training in before we leave.”

“The best Walkers do,” Zander chuckled. “I remember the early dungeons when we had to convince others to do that.”

Issa rolled her eyes. “Goddess... sometimes, it was terrible, especially with a new member or two.”

“Almost as bad as getting them to move on at other times.”

Stern chuckled. “I’ve been blessed with a great crew who haven’t given me those troubles.”

“And we won’t, either,” Jon added.

“Thanks again. We have to get to the dojo.”

“Have a great day,” Issa smiled.

“And thanks again for pulling souls out,” Zander added.

Chapter Thirty-two

Stern woke with a smile. Cammie was curled up against him, with Trish pushed in behind her. Cyra was curled up behind Stern, her arm and leg draped over him. Everything with the four of them had just clicked into place— that first night with all of them together had been a little awkward, but by the end, they’d found their places as a whole.

He still needed to present her a ring, and Stern planned to do it at breakfast. They’d be having Marvella and Maverna over for dinner, so breakfast was the best time for it. They were also taking the entire day off, so everyone could take care of any last-minute errands that they wanted to handle.

Stern had nothing planned, but knew that the women had talked about going shopping together. Maybe I should see if Jon wants to go grab a drink together again? Stern mused.

Trish woke up first, then kissed Cammie’s neck and gave Stern a wink. Cammie murmured before blinking her sleepy eyes open. Her soft smile was beautiful to Stern.

“Good morning to you both,” he murmured.

“To all of us,” Cyra said, tightening her limbs around him.

“To all of us,” Stern chuckled.

“Ladies’ day out,” Trish murmured. “Everyone will be back here for dinner.”

“I was going to see if Jon wanted to grab a drink again,” Stern told her. “I’m also going to write to my parents. I want to let them know our rough itinerary and see if they have a better timeline for meeting up.”

“Will it be okay?” Cammie asked softly.

“They’ll love you. All of you,” Stern said softly. “Trust me.”

“We do,” Cyra murmured, kissing his back before letting go of him.

They got out of bed and got dressed in short order.

Nicole was sitting on the sofa between Pawly and Zasha, petting them both. She gave them a smile when they came out of their room. “Morning. Jon went to get breakfast.”

“They’re clearly loving that,” Stern chuckled. “Are they bothering you at all?”

“No. They made room for me, so I petted them both in thanks.”

“I feel a little bad that neither of them gets to sleep with us,” Cammie said.

“It’s fine, since they have each other,” Stern said. “Neither has been upset with us leaving them in the living room.” It was then that he realized something. “I need to go to the general store today.”

“For what?” Cyra asked.

“A larger tent,” Stern chuckled. Taking a knee, he pulled the ring from his belt where he’d tucked it. “Cammie Urs, will you do us the honor of marrying into our family?”

Cammie swallowed the lump in her throat, then took the ring and quickly put it on before hugging him tightly. “Yes!”

The other two moved in, hugging them both happily.

“That’s so sweet to see,” Nicole beamed at them. “It’s obvious that you all love each other.”

Pawly purred louder, and Zasha’s grin grew wider as he craned his neck to see the moment.

“Breakfast!” Jon announced, leading the waitress into the room.

~*~*~

After breakfast, Jon and Stern left the inn together while the women went off for their own diversions. Zasha trotted beside them, looking pleased. Stern patted the happy dog as they walked.

“I guess it’s all men and all women together,” Jon snorted.

“Since Pawly went with them, it is,” Stern agreed. “Didn’t expect you to come with me.”

“Our tent is better for the winter. I figured a lighter one with more breathability would be better for the summer. We roasted some during the last trip.”

“Hmm... good point,” Stern said. “Ours is good for the summer. I might have to see about a winter one after another tier or two.”

“Not sure you’ll really need one,” Jon chuckled. “You’ll have enough body heat in any tent to keep you warm.”

“Fair enough,” Stern laughed. “Add in Pawly and Zasha, and we’ll be plenty toasty.”

“I’d say so... Umm... I need to stop by the post. I’m sending my sister a letter. Going to agree to meet her in Blackwood.”

“Big step.”

“I’m trusting her letter. If I’m wrong… it’ll hurt Nicole that much more.”

“And you.”

“Yeah, but it’s Nicole I worry about.”

“I can understand that. No matter what, we’ll be there for you.”

Jon exhaled the worry he’d been holding. “Thanks. What about you? Your family is going to come down and meet your wives.”

“My family will adore them,” Stern said softly. “Dad might be a bit of a pain for me... he’s going to laugh about me ending up just like him. But that’s fine. I wouldn’t want anything other than what I have.”

“Well, we’ll be there for you, too,” Jon said.

“I know. I want you to meet my parents, and their crew, as well.”

“Be happy to do it. Sorry I can’t say the same.”

“If your sister is who you think she is, we’ll be happy to meet her,” Stern said.

“Thanks.”

“After we grab the tents, want to have a drink before we get things all packed up for tomorrow?”

“Sounds good to me,” Jon chuckled. “Should surprise the women if we manage it before they get home.”

~*~*~

“Thank you for coming over,” Stern said, greeting the sisters.

“Thank you for having us,” Marvella smiled. “We were surprised when the hall sent us a message.”

“It was very nice of you to invite us to dine with you,” Maverna said, following her sister in.

“We wanted to see you before we left the city,” Trish said.

“Oh? Are you leaving soon?” Maverna asked.

“Tomorrow morning,” Cyra said. She hugged both of them in turn. “We wanted to see how things are going for you.”

“Surprisingly well,” Marvella said. “When I went with her to the hall yesterday, they had a list of potential crew members for us. Said friends had asked on my behalf.”

“We even met one of them. Lindon was very respectful. He felt pity for me, but no anger or hatred,” Maverna said. “I’m not sure how I feel about that, honestly, but it’s nice to feel something different.”

“He’s a caster who specialized in dark magic. We’ll have to hope we can get him a second element, just in case, for later dungeons,” Marvella added, “but that still gives us the basic three positions of all crews.”

“With three more spots,” Nicole said.

“We filled out, actually,” Maverna said as she took the seat Stern directed her to. “A pair of twin brothers, though you’d never know it. Each took after a different parent. James has the wings of his angelic mother, and Sean has the infernal wings of their father.”

“Those two races do seem to end up a lot together,” Nicole said.

“They really do,” Stern chuckled.

“Both of them were respectful,” Marvella said.

“James likes you,” Maverna snickered.

Marvella frowned. “Doesn’t matter. Not interested.”

“Liar, liar, pants on fire,” Maverna sang.

Stern snorted and patted Marvella’s shoulder. “Sisters, am I right?”

“Yeah,” Marvella said as she sat down at the table.

Nicole’s smile slipped for a second, thinking once more of what might’ve been if her parents had been more like the lykians’.

Cammie touched her arm. “It’s okay.”

Nicole inhaled sharply, then smiled sheepishly. “It’s just a passing thought.”

“That’s only five in total,” Jon said as he stayed standing by the table.

“The last one is Shelly,” Marvella said. “Nice girl. Half-dwarf. Very serious about her axe and getting in close, and she uses a shield so she can help with protecting others. Actually has a few bulwark perks to balance her offensive ones. A solid addition.”

“She’s eager to be part of the crew. Her parents were in a crew with an irregular and mentioned how often they had odd perks show up,” Maverna said. “She actually hugged me.”

“Nice,” Stern grinned just before a knock came on the door. “There’s the food. Be right back.”

“The inn has good food,” Marvella said.

“It does, but this is from a local place, not the inn,” Trish grinned. “Stern wanted you both to have a great dinner. When do you go in?”

“The day after tomorrow. We’ll be having dinner with them tomorrow night.”

“They were all eager to run with Sis,” Maverna chuckled. “Her perks had their full attention.”

Stern and Jon started bringing the food over to the table, with the help of the delivery people, as it was a veritable feast. Both sisters were shocked at the amount and quality of the food. They wondered about how this crew had managed to afford it, but were polite enough not to ask.

The meal was delicious— everyone ate their fill, if not more. There was no food left over, and the last of the wine was distributed amongst everyone.

“Goddess, that was amazing,” Maverna sighed, patting her stomach. “I hope I still fit into my armor.”

“Right?” Trish laughed. “I have to put mine on tomorrow. I’m worried about it now.”

“You wear scale,” Marvella snorted. “You’ll be fine. You’ll want to see about getting at least a breastplate by the time you reach bronze. Things from there on out start getting trickier for bulwarks in less sturdy armor.”

“She has Reinforced Iron Skin,” Cyra said, her words a touch wobbly, “but we’ll be putting her in better armor before then, anyway.”

“You already have that perk?” Maverna asked in surprise.

Trish glanced at Cyra with an amused smile. “I forget how easily she gets tipsy.”

Cyra blinked slowly, then blushed. “Sorry.”

Trish squeezed her hand. “It’s fine, my dear bunny. And yes, I have that perk already.”

“You’ll be good for a couple of tiers, minus bosses who might be able to hit you hard enough to cut through that,” Marvella said. “Nice pick up.”

“Got it on our first run with Nicole and Jon,” Trish said. “Irregulars change the chance for perks showing up. Your latest member has that right. We’re taking stock of what we get offered when. If we can quantify it, maybe others will be more open to allowing irregulars a chance.”

“Oh…” Maverna looked thoughtful. “I’ll do the same. We should mention it to the hall. Maybe they can pass it along to other irregulars, and that information can be gathered faster.”

“Worth a shot,” Stern agreed, “and we really do skew the odds. Pawly and Zasha,” he motioned at the two animals lounging near the table, who’d been cadging treats from the dinners. “Both of them are perks. Pawly is from birth, but Zasha and the perk to have them both out are from our runs. Add in their upgrades that Marvella has seen, and... yeah.”

Marvella frowned as she stared at Stern with her one eye. “Wait… that’s all of, or close to all of, your perks from dungeons.”

Stern tipped his wine glass slightly toward her. “Correct. For our tier, I’m the most powerful summoner ever, I believe.”

Marvella glanced at the happy dog and cat. “Yes... you would be.”

“All of us have had unusual perk options,” Jon said. “Your idea has merit. If more irregulars start reporting them, it’ll have a bigger impact quicker.”

“Then we’ll have the last laugh, as everyone will want us along with them,” Maverna said with a smirk. “Serve all those bigots right to know and be unable to have one of us with them.”

“It really would,” Stern agreed.

“If you don’t mind, can we compare perks?” Marvella asked. “I’d like to hear more.”

The crew exchanged glances— sharing perk information outside of crew and family was almost never done, though sometimes, close friends would compare their perks to see how they were each doing. A silent consensus was reached and Nicole cleared her throat. “I’ll start.”

Chapter Thirty-three

The group was ready to go shortly after breakfast, and Stern felt a hint of anxiety in his chest. He’d been keeping the fact that his family would meet them at Blackwood a secret. He’d marry his three lovers, see his family, and be there to support Jon in seeing his sister again. There was a lot that was going to happen during their time in Blackwood, including the dungeon run to let them finish the nickel tier.

“Stop for quests, and then we’ll head out. Zasha, you’ll get your perks once we go off the road,” Stern said. “Pawly normally scouts ahead of us, so you’ll be back with Cyra, Cammie, and Nicole.”

Zasha gave a soft bark, his tail wagging happily.

“I think he’s just happy to be able to go with us,” Trish grinned.

“He is,” Stern agreed. “Let’s see what we can find. I’m sure there will be a wolf kill quest on the way, at least.”

“Probably dark willow shoots, too,” Cyra agreed. “That seems to be pretty consistent.”

“It is,” Jon nodded.

They trooped downstairs, saying goodbye to the innkeeper before leaving the Slumbering Night behind. It wasn’t far to the Walkers’ hall, and they saw a good number of Walkers heading toward the dungeon.

“May the Goddess bless and keep them safe,” Nicole whispered.

“That I will always pray for,” Stern quietly agreed.

The room was nearly empty when they entered it, though Issa and Zander were at their desks. They waved at the receptionists before going up to the quest board. Just like they had thought, there were quests for wolves— both golden- and black-furred— along with dark willow shoots. All three quests were to be turned in at shops in Blackwood, the tanner and the alchemist.

“Stern, can I see you?” Issa called out when it looked like they were about to leave.

“What can I do for you?” Stern asked, stepping up to her desk.

Issa held out a small dispatch envelope. “Hand this to the receptionist in Blackwood, please. You’ll be paid well for it.”

Stern saw the Walkers’ seal affixed to the envelope. “I see. Very well. Cyra, come here, please? I need you to stuff this into my bag.”

Cyra helped him get the envelope deep into his bag. “All done.”

“I’ll make sure they get it when we arrive,” Stern told Issa.

“Thank you,” Issa smiled. “Safe travels and run when you reach Blackwood.”

“Have a good day,” Stern replied, turning to include Zander in that. “Maybe things will calm down for you now.”

“We hope so. The trouble crew left the city yesterday. They’ll reach Blackwood before you,” Zander said.

“We’ll manage,” Stern said, a small smile coming to his lips. “I pity them if they cause issues there.”

Zander’s brow furrowed; he didn’t understand why Stern seemed so confident. “Just be aware of it.”

“Understood,” Stern nodded. “The sisters said they found good people, so thank you for that.”

Issa giggled. “Did they tell you the name of their crew?”

“No,” Trish said quickly. “What is it?”

“‘Irregular Pack.’” Issa had managed to say it with a straight face, but she started chuckling.

“Almost like they had another crew to emulate,” Zander chuckled along with his wife.

“That’s cute!” Cyra beamed.

“One of their crew rules was unusual, too,” Issa said. “They’ll be reporting what each member gets offered when they finish a dungeon. They believe that having an irregular in the crew has a chance of skewing the perks toward the unique and rare.”

“We did discuss that, and we believe so, too,” Stern said. “We’ll probably be doing similar in the future.”

“That’ll help,” Zander said. “If we can document it and spread it around the Walkers’ halls, it could have a real impact. Not names of the crews, but just a clear showing of rare perks being offered.”

“Yes, that’s my hope,” Stern said. “I’ll likely turn ours in after we run the next dungeon. That’ll be six with just me, and three with Nicole and I. Then, the same with Nicole: her six as the only irregular, and then our combined three.”

“Has that mattered?” Issa asked, sitting forward. “Do two irregulars skew it more?”

“We believe so,” Stern said, “but time will prove it out or not.”

“True,” Issa sighed, sitting back. “That’s all in the future, though, like the Travelers showing up.”

“Probably sooner than we all think,” Stern said. He held back, as he had a better idea of when that would be. His father had never said how he knew when the Travelers would show up, but Stern felt it wasn’t common knowledge.

“They will show when the Goddess wills it,” Zander said with a shrug.

Goodbyes were said one more time before the crew left the guildhall behind.

They were on the way to the gate when Jon asked, “Do you think the idiots will give us trouble in Blackwood?”

“Probably,” Stern said. “Don’t worry about it. We’ll deal with it.”

“If they left yesterday, we might not find much on the trip,” Cammie said.

“True, but we might also pick the other side of the road from them, too,” Trish said. “If we travel for a few days and don’t see anything, we can get back to the road and cross over.”

“Be less to turn in, but it’ll be better that way,” Stern agreed.

“You think the Travelers will be here soon?” Nicole asked Stern. “You seemed confident in your answer that they’ll be here sooner than most think.”

“I do,” Stern said. “I’m sure the Goddess will inform the acolytes so they can spread the word. This way, we can all be prepared for them.”

“Rumor says they’ll be obsessed with clearing the dungeons as quickly as they can,” Trish said.

“Or they’ll settle down and try to live normal lives,” Cyra added.

“Either way, it’s said they’ll come and go for long stretches of time. Not sure how they’ll work as Walkers, if that’s true,” Jon said.

“Fill-ins?” Cammie suggested. “The crew would just have to know that they’re Travelers and that means either waiting or knowing they’ll have to find another in time.”

“True... I wonder if they’ll be unique in other ways?” Nicole mused. “They always sounded so special. People who cross worlds to assist the natives... what would that be like?”

“Not sure I’d want it,” Stern said. “Not now, anyway.” His gaze went to his three lovers.

Cyra and Cammie gave him smiles, and Trish gave him a suggestive wink.

“I’d pass unless Nicole came with me,” Jon agreed. “If she did, then I’m not sure... I think I’d like to see a different world.”

“If they treated me better… yes,” Nicole nodded, “but only if Jon was beside me.”

They debated the supposed pluses and minuses of what a new world might mean as they walked across the city. When they reached the gates, they trailed off. Stern chuckled as he watched the guards on duty stare at Pawly floating up and over the wall.

~*~*~

“Tomorrow, we’ll start to find wolves,” Stern told Zasha, who looked sad. “The first day out is always slow.”

Zasha huffed, taking a seat as they set camp.

“No resting yet, buddy,” Stern laughed. “Time to go hunting.”

Zasha sprang back up to his feet, barking as his tail whipped the air behind him.

“Quietly,” Stern laughed. He looked at the others. “We’ll be back.”

“We’ll have everything ready,” Cyra smiled.

Nodding, Stern walked away from camp, his backpack left behind. He carried his crossbow while Pawly floated ahead of him, minus her electricity; that would alert too many animals. Zasha stalked beside him without his stone armor, so he could move with lighter steps.

Stern walked as quietly as his mother had taught him. He was half watching his feet and half watching the area around him for something to bring back as food. He always felt a little alone when he went out hunting, but also proud whenever he brought back something for dinner.

Zasha moved slowly, skulking beside Stern. The hound’s pride at being brought along made Stern smile. He was ecstatic that Pawly and Zasha got along as well as they did. He’d been worried that the two of them might fight when out at the same time, but they’d been close ever since he picked the perk.

Not finding anything for a good while, Stern was starting to get disheartened when he spotted a dark willow shoot. Edging over to it, he let out a soft whistle to let Pawly know he was pausing. Looking back the way he’d come, Stern mentally marked the location of the shoot. Pick it up tomorrow before we really get moving, he thought. He left the shoot behind as he started walking again, eyes scanning the undergrowth.

~*~*~

Making it back to camp, Stern had a dead wolf on Zasha’s back, its golden fur not as damaged as Stern feared it would be. “Sorry for the delay,” he said when he entered the light of the campfire.

“That’ll take a bit to get going,” Cammie said, going over to help him skin and prepare the wolf.

“First thing I found besides a dark willow shoot. We’ll pick that up tomorrow.”

“At least we know there are wolves and shoots on this side of the road,” Trish said.

“True, but a single one of each might just mean they were missed by the idiots. We’ll have to see what tomorrow brings.”

“Then we’ll make a decision on crossing the road or not,” Jon said. “Your new tent goes up pretty easily, but it does take two people.”

“It’s sized for six, so that’s not surprising,” Stern chuckled. “After all, we’ll have Pawly and Zasha in with us.” With that, he sized both of them back down to their smaller forms. “Smaller. That’ll give us plenty of room all around.”

“I was curious,” Nicole said, watching Cammie and Stern start working on the wolf, “we never get attacked in camp... that’s always been a bit odd. We’ve found a pack of wolves only a handful of minutes from our camp before.”

“You must’ve missed it during class,” Stern said. “Once you have a campfire going, you’re safe. The Goddess blesses every camp that is set with the caveat that, if you use the camp to attack from, the blessing is broken.”

“Which is why we can’t have Pawly go round things up and lead them back,” Trish said. “Honestly, it would be miserable without the Goddess’ Blessing. We’d have to take turns on watch to make sure we aren’t ambushed.”

“There are places you have to,” Stern said. “It isn’t talked about in class, as that’s years away in the far north. Once all three cities of a tier have been established, then their areas get the Blessing. But if you’re one of the Seekers who go out to find the next dungeons, you don’t have that luxury. That’s why those brave few who delve into the north to find the next tiers are treated so respectfully.”

“Because they face death all the time,” Jon nodded. “Makes sense. Has to fray at them.”

“It does,” Stern said. “They always take time off between each push into the north. A year off or more isn’t unheard of, or longer if they lost members of their crews.”

“Because they can’t come back... they die, not fracture,” Nicole whispered. “I couldn’t do that.”

“Don’t feel bad. Most can’t,” Stern said. “My parents might end up doing that once my siblings are all grown. That’s a fear for later, but it isn’t a small fear.”

“Your parents are that advanced?” Jon asked. “I’ve done my best to not pry, but the coin and small pieces of information make it sound like they are powerful.”

Trish snorted before looking away.

Stern exhaled slowly, deciding it was only fair to warn them. “Yes... Uh... they know already, and since we’re sure to keep being a crew, I’ll tell you now.”

Nicole gave him a curious look. “It’s okay if you don’t want to.”

“It’s fine. I was so fixed on being my own man for years, but since I started loving Cyra, Trish, and Cammie, I find that the need for validation isn’t nearly as strong anymore. Besides, you’ll be meeting them.”

Jon’s lips pursed. “Sounds like they’re more than even I’d thought...”

“Yeah, probably. My parents are the head of a well-known crew. I have three mothers, but my birth mother is Stacia Masterson. My father is Seamus Masterson. They make up the core of Rescue Squad team one: Darkhand.”

Jon’s mouth dropped open as he stared at Stern. Nicole’s brow furrowed before her eyes shot open wide.

“I’m their eldest son. Alistern Masterson is my full name, but I always felt better as Stern.”

“You…? A-and you picked... us…?” Jon stammered.

“I wanted to prove to the world that I could be their equal or better... prideful, I know. But now, with my loves beside me, I find that’s not as important. I’d love to see the bigotry toward irregulars stop, still, so I’ve shifted my focus to that.”

“They’ve always talked well of irregulars... it was rumored they had a child who was one...” Nicole whispered. “Goddess...”

“They’re normal people,” Stern said softly. “Their reputation has placed them on pedestals they aren’t fond of. It was my father who named Pawly and gave me the crew’s name.”

Jon snorted, then started to laugh. “The most powerful Walker, the head of Rescue Squad, named Pawly?”

Pawly chuffed from where she floated above them.

“Yeah.”

“But it’s such a dad joke!” Jon laughed harder.

“He’s like that. Nicole, my parents will love you.” He said that having watched Nicole draw in on herself. “Mom... Julia, that is... will cuddle the hell out of you if you let her. All of them will be upset when they hear about what you went through.”

“For me?” Nicole sniffled, trying not to think of how Stern had everything she’d always wanted.

“Yes. I’m sure Stacia will offer to help you. Mom’s like that. She wants to heal all she can.”

“Heal?” Nicole asked through tearful eyes.

“She can help dull painful memories,” Stern said softly. “All the pain you still carry from what happened.”

“She’d… for… me?”

“Don’t be surprised when she asks, but yes. Just like she will ask Cyra if she needs help.”

“I don’t. Not anymore,” Cyra said. “I’ll accept if she asks, just in case it’s lingering where I don’t feel it.”

“Wow...” Jon said as he hugged Nicole to his side. “Just... wow. I’d never have guessed that.”

“Doesn’t change anything between us, I hope?” Stern asked a little worriedly. “I’ve had fake friends before who just wanted to get closer to them.”

“No!” Jon said firmly. “Doesn’t change our crew at all.” He licked his lips. “But... if your mom can help Nicole... please?”

“She’ll likely offer all on her own, but I can ask,” Stern nodded, then handed off the wolf meat to Cyra. “Here you go.”

“Thank you. I’ll get it started,” Cyra said.

“They loved you?” Nicole sniffled.

“Yes,” Stern said softly. “All my family loved me, though my sisters and brothers… had problems with my empathy. They did their best, but it made them wary of me.”

Nicole hiccupped. “That’s all I wanted...”

Trish went to her side, hugging her, along with Jon. “Nicole, I call you sister. You are loved by us, just like family.”

Nicole grabbed her, sobbing into Trish’s chest. “Sister…!”

Jon started to cry, as well, so glad to have met them. They accepted them in, treated them like family, and even wanted to help his beloved wife.

Zasha shuffled over, flopping onto Nicole’s feet and giving her a doggy grin. Nicole sobbed harder and bent to pet the puppy.

The mood was sad, but it settled after a bit. Nicole had to draw her cloak around her to wipe her eyes, and everyone had regained their emotional control by the time she’d finished.

“That was quite the shock,” Jon said.

“You deserve to know,” Stern said. “And I mean it when I say you’re family to us, just as Gerald and Marysue are to my parents and me. I called them my aunt and uncle even though we’re not blood-related.”

“Still hard to imagine meeting Darkhand,” Jon said. “And here I was thinking you meeting my sister was a big deal.”

“It is,” Stern said honestly. “She’s your family, so it’ll be a big deal for us to meet her.”

“Yes,” Cyra agreed.

Nicole went back to petting Zasha. “Thank you... I’m sorry I keep having moments. It’s just… hard at times.”

“You never have to apologize,” Stern said gently.

“He’s right,” Trish said, having stayed beside Nicole. “We’ll be here for you. A new extended family that will care for and treasure you.”

Nicole leaned into Trish for a second. “Thank you. All of you.”

“We care,” Cammie said, finishing up the skin of the wolf. “I’d hug you, but first I need to clean up.”

Nicole snorted, glancing up at Cammie. “Please.”

Chapter Thirty-four

Their few weeks’ worth of travels through the Gold Wood, then Black Wood, were nearly a vacation for them. They collected the willow shoots, killed three dark willow saplings and dozens of wolves, but it never felt overwhelming to them. None of them even got injured, with Trish, Pawly, and Zasha protecting them.

They laughed and cried at times, but overall grew closer together. Jon opened up to the whole crew about his hope for his sister. Nicole expressed her worry that she’d be the dividing line between Jon and his family again, only to be comforted by everyone around her.

When they made their final camp for the trip, they were only a handful of hours outside of the city, which would let them arrive at the gates before noon.

~*~*~

“I know I always say it, but I’m looking forward to a real bath,” Trish sighed.

“We all do, so none of us will make fun of the sentiment,” Jon chuckled. “A hot bath, a meal that’s not heavy on wolf meat... no offense, Cyra. You do wonders with it, but…”

“I agree,” Cyra said. “I’m hoping for more vegetables and fruit. When Stern brought those couple of bunnicorns a few days back, I was so happy with just that change.”

“We all were,” Cammie smiled, recalling that night. “A change of pace is always good, and the soup you managed to whip up was delicious.”

“It was nice using the stream to get some of the grime off, too,” Nicole whispered.

“Chilly, but still good,” Stern agreed. “Would’ve hated to use that stream in the winter.”

“That might have been bad,” Trish shivered.

“Zasha enjoyed the water,” Cyra giggled, thinking back to how Zasha had played in it.

“And Pawly stayed at camp the entire time,” Nicole added.

“Cats and baths aren’t exactly a match,” Stern shrugged. “Besides, they get clean when I send them home.”

“Which is good, or else Zasha would’ve needed a real scrubbing,” Trish said.

“He does get pretty bloody when fighting,” Jon agreed.

The hippo lykian guard on the gate held up a hand to stop the group. “Walkers? Ah. Welcome to Blackwood. Walkers’ guild is three squares ahead, and two north.” He pointed in the appropriate directions. “Remember the laws of the cities.”

“Thank you, sir. We’ll behave ourselves,” Stern said.

“Uh... the floating cat is with you?” the guard asked, hooking a thumb up at Pawly.

“Summons. She’ll mind her manners,” Stern grinned before thumping Zasha’s side. “So will he.”

“Another summons?”

“Yes, sir.”

“Unusual, but okay. If he wasn’t, he’d need to be on a leash. If a guard asks, you might need to leash or dismiss him.”

“I understand, sir,” Stern said. “Problems with animals in the past?”

“Some Walkers don’t handle their beasts as they should,” the guard said tightly.

“Zasha, go home, please,” Stern said.

Zasha plopped on the ground, then melted into it. The guard took a step back, watching with wide eyes.

“Sorry. He’s the less disturbing of the two,” Stern said. “There. Shouldn’t be any trouble now.”

“Goddess... Umm, thank you. I just would hate to see you harassed more than you might already be.”

Stern winced. “Thank you, sir. I expect some of that.”

“Very well. Just wanted to warn you ahead of time. Have a pleasant stay.”

“Two things, sir? I’m looking for Alonzo Alchemy and Salted Pelt. I have quests to drop off.”

“Salted Pelt is the closest. Take the first left and follow it around; you can’t miss the tanner. Alonzo’s is two squares north of that, then one east.”

“Thank you,” Stern said once more before leading his crew through the gates.

They paused at the first intersection. Stern already had all the furs on his bag, having made sure of it that morning when they broke camp.

“You sure you want to go alone?” Trish asked.

“It’s quicker this way,” Stern said. “I’ll meet you all at the inn.”

“Okay,” Trish said slowly, giving him a long look. “I think you’re up to something, but I’ll let you get away with it.”

Stern gave her an awkward smile. “Thank you.”

Pawly floated over to the women.

“Fine. You, too,” Stern laughed. “If needed, I’ll bring Zasha out. See you all soon.”

Once they’d separated, it didn’t take Stern long to reach Salted Pelt. He was glad for that, as the weight of the skins had started to get to him, even with the extra support from his backpack resting on his hips.

The man behind the counter bore markings that easily let it be known he was weasel lykian. Flashing a smile, the man waited for Stern to reach the counter. “How can I help? Hides for sale?”

“Quest turn-ins,” Stern grunted as he started pulling his bag off. “Golden and black wolf hides. We picked up the quest in Goldwood.”

“Excellent!” the man grinned broadly. “That’s exactly why I put the quests up. The last crew had a paltry amount for me.”

“Must not have stayed in the woods long,” Stern said.

“A handful of goldens only, so they must have split before halfway here. They did mention fighting a dark willow sapling. That’s probably what got them out of the woods, but I didn’t pry.”

“Met three of them ourselves,” Stern grunted as he finally dropped the bag. He stretched out his tall frame before sighing. “Goddess, that feels better.”

“Tall, aren’t you?” the man whistled. “Irregular, too, by the look of you.”

“That I am,” Stern said as he bent back to untie the hides from his bag.

“Last group had a lot of unpleasant things to say about irregulars. Idiots. As if I care who a person is, as long as they get me my quest items.”

“Wish more people felt like you do,” Stern said.

“Name’s Westin. This is my shop. Well, technically, it’s my father’s shop, but basically mine.”

“Retiring soon, is he?”

“He’s getting a bit old for all the hard work. Going to force him up front in the next year or so. He’ll hate it, but it’ll have to be done if we want to get the hides done in good time for sale. Been putting it off. Hate to do it to him, but needs must.”

“Always hard when your parents get older,” Stern said. It wasn’t that he knew, but it sounded right to him.

“He knows it’s coming. He did the same to his old man,” Westin said. “He’ll bitch and moan as much as Gramps did, but he’ll accept it.”

“Family is precious,” Stern said as he started lifting the skins onto the counter. “Golden furs first.”

~*~*~

Stern was smiling when he arrived at Alonzo’s Alchemy. Westin had been a character— he’d chattered the entire time, even when examining the hides. He’d given him a bonus for the furs being in better condition than he expected, which Stern gladly accepted. Shaking his head, he entered the alchemy shop.

The elf behind the counter stood up when Stern entered. His lips thinned, but he greeted Stern amiably enough, “Welcome to my shop. How can I assist you?”

“Quest turn-ins, plus something extra you might want,” Stern said as he crossed the room.

“Ah, find a sapling, did you?”

“Three, actually,” Stern corrected him. He set the small jug of ash on the counter, then pulled out the dark willow shoots. “And, of course, the shoots.”

The elf was quick to deal with the shoots first before checking the ash. “Hmm... well done. I’m Alonzo. As I said, this is my shop. Not many Walkers handle three saplings with ease.”

“We have the right crew for it,” Stern shrugged. “Our trap finder and caster do good work.”

“Unlike the last crew,” Alonzo snorted. “They couldn’t help but bitch at each other. Sad when a crew is so fractured. If they’re not careful, they’ll end up that way, too.”

“Very true. Full crew, was it?”

“All six of them, unlike you. They all wanted their cut. I believe one or two were intent on parting ways with the others. Hmm... yes, this is all good. I can pay you for the quest items, but for the ash, I’ll have to pay you more. It’s a good component for my craft.”

“I’ll take the standard rate,” Stern said. “I’d also like to pick up a half-dozen antivenoms and another salve tin, please.”

“Hmm... if I add in the quest reward and deduct what you want...” Alonzo said slowly, “I’ll say a large silver and five large copper.”

“Good enough,” Stern agreed. “Add an extra copper to keep the jug?”

“Easier for me to just add it to my existing stock. Just give me a moment. I’ll clean it and return it shortly.”

“Alright,” Stern said as he waited with a grin.

~*~*~

With the quests turned in, Stern headed to the post office— he wanted to see if his parents had left an updated itinerary for him. That took a while, as it was on the other side of the city, but he did make sure to stop by another shop on the way.

There was a small letter waiting for him. Scanning its contents, he smiled; his family would be in Blackwood in four days. He took a moment to leave them a message in return, letting them know where they were staying along with the fact that they’d have run the dungeon by then.

They’re probably checking the post in each city they stop in, Stern thought. If it wasn’t for my siblings, they’d probably already be here, but that’s fine. I want them all to meet my wives. My siblings will be excited that I have control over my empathy now. Maybe that’ll let them feel closer to me.

With happiness in his heart, he crossed the city quickly to the inn closest to the Walkers’ hall. Seeing the sign, he chuckled, knowing his parents would find it amusing. It depicted a couple resting in bed with the name of the inn above it: Familiar Rest.

The inn was not as busy as Stern thought it would be, but then again, it was just passing midday. The innkeeper behind the bar gave him an appraising look. She was built strong and had horns from her bovine lykian heritage.

“Excuse me, miss, my crew should have checked us in,” Stern said.

“Name’s Becka. I’m the owner,” she said politely. “You must be the leader of the crew. Make sense, with the crew’s name. They took the familiar suite— two rooms, both very large, with a good sitting area between them. Top floor, last door. They also have the two large bathrooms set aside. I think they’re done, or about done with them.”

“Perfect,” Stern sighed happily. “Thank you, Becka. Did they arrange for dinner, too?”

“Sure did. The best we have. It’ll be brought up in a few hours.”

“Thanks again. I’m sorry in advance if my condition causes you any trouble.”

Becka snorted. “Any idiot who wants to cause trouble in my inn will find out how I deal with it. You just don’t antagonize anyone and you’ll be safe.”

“I’ll act as if you were my mother, then,” Stern chuckled.

“We do prefer a family feel here,” Becka laughed. “Go on. Get.”

“Yes, ma’am.”

Chapter Thirty-five

Stern woke with a smile; he was getting used to the sensation of waking with his three lovers beside him. Soon, they’ll be my wives... he thought, his smile widening. Not today, but soon. Gear today, dungeon tomorrow, then gear again, and finally, my family will arrive. Goddess, please, please... let them all get along.

Cyra stirring on his right drew his attention to her. She murmured, her eyes blinking slowly as she came awake. She tilted her head, shifting her floppy bunny ears out of the way to see him. “Good morning.”

Stern bent forward, giving her a soft kiss. “Good morning, my dear bunny.”

“I want one of those,” Cammie murmured from his left.

“Me, too,” Trish said from behind her.

Stern chuckled, tilting his head back the other way. He gave Cammie her kiss, then partially leaned over the dwarf— as did Trish— to give Trish her kiss.

“Gear check, seeing about shards, and then relaxing for the run tomorrow?” Trish asked as they all got out of bed.

“Should be. No idea when Jon’s sister will show up. He said he’d check the post today. Might do that when we look to see whose shards we’ll pull out.”

“Probably for the best,” Cammie said. “We’d like to arrange it to be a good meeting for them.”

“Dinner?” Stern asked.

“If you don’t mind,” Trish said.

“I can see about setting it up once we know when she’ll arrive. I also have to find out which place in town would be best.”

“We’ll be ready. We all got new dresses for dinners,” Trish winked. “We’ll show them off then.”

“I’ll definitely arrange something, then,” Stern chuckled.

“You like us dressed up,” Cyra smiled softly.

“It takes your beauty and magnifies it. So, yes, I do like you all dressed up. I’ll even wear the suit.”

“Which we like seeing you in,” Cammie said, nudging his arm. “Fair is fair.”

“Agreed, though truth be told I like peeling him out of his suit more,” Trish snickered.

“You’re terrible,” Cyra giggled.

“And we love her just the way she is,” Cammie laughed.

“Truth,” Stern chuckled.

Jon and Nicole were stepping out of their room at the same time the four left theirs. “Morning. I’ll go see about breakfast,” Jon said.

“I’ll go with you,” Stern said. He patted Zasha and Pawly as he passed them. The pair were curled up, as was becoming normal for them, butt-to-butt on the sofa.

His brow furrowed slightly as he left the suite. “Still need to dig out the older runes.”

“Huh?” Jon asked.

“We have a collection of least runes. We just haven’t had the gear for them all. Zasha’s collar is still open, so I was thinking of adding one to it.”

“Which runes?”

“I think it’s cold, air, dark, and… acid? We might have a lesser dark rune in the bag, as well. We were going to put it in Trish’s old helm, but we never did. It was still empty when I shipped it to my parents. One of my siblings will use it, or they’ll set it aside for us.”

“Still difficult wrapping my mind around what you told us on the trip,” Jon said.

“I’m just glad you two are okay with it. I worry every time I tell someone.”

“‘Why can’t you do more for us’ kind of thing?”

“That’s part of it, yeah.”

The bartender was the same woman as the day before. Becka looked over when they came off the stairs, giving them a smile. “Breakfast for the crew?”

“Please,” Stern nodded. “Normally takes two kettles for all six of us.”

“Yeah, that’s fine,” Becka said before turning to the kitchen door, informing the staff there about the order. “Be a few minutes.”

“That’s fine,” Jon smiled. “Thank you.”

“A question, if you don’t mind?” Becka asked. “How hard has it been for you?”

Stern met her eyes, then nodded slowly. “Child?”

“Nephew. He’s only a year old now. Same pale skin, same colorless eyes. Looks really odd with his lykian heritage.”

“First, take him to the Walkers and have them check his perks from birth. There’s a good chance he has one that will give him real trouble. I had no idea others like me had similar, if different, problems. I had uncontrolled empathy, but I’ve since gotten a perk to reduce that. I know of two others who had difficult perks, too.”

Becka inhaled a deep breath. “Oh, Goddess... Thank you. I’ll tell my brother and see about getting his child seen.”

“If the hall gives you any grief, let me know. I’ll talk to some people who’ll remove any problems you have,” Stern said seriously.

“I will. Thank you.”

~*~*~

Their breakfast consisted of fresh bread with butter and jam, eggs, and ham, and they all had their fill. Zasha and Pawly both begged respectfully and were given treats from various people.

When they shifted to gear checks after eating, the only real issue was Trish’s hammer. “It’ll last another run, maybe two,” Jon said, shaking his head. “We’ll need to replace it, though.”

“If we do that, we’ll upgrade it,” Stern said. “Let’s put it off until after this run. If we pull more runes of lesser or higher, we can focus on a hammer that can take the runes.”

“Okay,” Trish said softly. “I hope it survives the run in decent-enough condition... I’d like to put it up on a wall at some point. I’ve had this hammer since the beginning of my time as a Walker.”

“Happens with all our gear,” Jon said. “Even my sword.” He touched the scabbard. “I’ll have to replace it eventually, too.”

“It’s dark iron, so it’ll still be good for another few tiers, unless we run into something that’s even harder to cut through,” Stern said.

“True, but it’s just part of running,” Jon said. “Every retired Walker I know has a few pieces they’ve kept— mostly sentimental pieces. When they do settle down, they tend to sell off their current gear for more money.”

“Which we’ll start seeing more of in the next few tiers,” Stern said. “Before the precious metal tiers, at least. Most Walkers stop around there. Even the serious ones start giving it some thought.”

“Why?” Nicole asked.

“Normally, because of friends who’ve stopped. We’ve been lucky to not lose a member yet,” Stern said as he set his crossbow aside. “With that many perks and seeing friends stop, or possibly having to run again to collect a friend’s shards, it gets difficult to keep pushing.”

“Some stop for a long break, taking a year or so off,” Jon added. “Some have kids, then lose the will to keep pushing. Others dive right back in after their breaks, finding out that they crave the thrill of the run.”

“Something we’ll all have to face eventually,” Trish said.

That sobered the room as they each considered the idea of their friends stopping, or even dying.

~*~*~

“We’ll be back shortly,” Stern said, kissing his three lovers goodbye.

“Just picking up a shard quest and stopping by the post,” Jon said, stepping back from Nicole. “I really hope she sent a letter... I’d like to arrange things before she arrives.”

“Either way, tomorrow, we finish this tier off,” Cammie said.

“I’ll be ready.”

The two men left the suite, waved to Becka as they went past, and headed toward the guildhall.

“Do you think the idiots lost a couple of their crew?” Jon asked, considering what Stern had mentioned at dinner the previous night.

“Possibly? I just hope the ones who left reconsidered their stances on irregulars.”

Jon’s lips thinned. “You don’t think they’d give a child a problem, do you?”

Stern stopped walking, his face setting into anger. “I will be very upset. We should warn the receptionist, just in case.”

They got to the hall just in time to hear angry voices raised in disagreement.

“Just take it out and drown it! Only good thing you could do for it!” Billy’s voice was clear.

“Its father must be a twisted freak to have spawned that!” Brandon added. “You’re not even a Walker, so you shouldn’t be in here!”

Stern entered before Jon, his eyes cold. Billy, Brandon, and two others had gotten in front of a human woman holding her child. The child was crying, his pale hands grabbing his mother while his colorless eyes poured tears.

“That is enough!” the receptionist, a rabbit lykian, snapped. “All children can have their perks checked. It has always been that way, even if most never do before they can enter the academy.”

“Do you need them moved, sir?” Stern asked, his fingers flexing through the motions to summon Pawly and Zasha to him.

“Look! Another abomination!” Billy sneered. “Is this your spawn?”

The room was mostly empty. It was morning, so most Walkers were already at the dungeon for their run or sleeping in.

“Walkers, stay out of it,” the receptionist said firmly to Stern. He looked back at Billy’s crew. “You will follow my word or you will be barred. Let the woman pass you.”

“Sure,” Brandon sneered, an ugly look coming to his face. “We’ll follow that order.”

His hand never made it to the child— Jon was there, his fist smashing into Brandon’s face. “Do not touch the child!” Jon snarled.

The bartender and both receptionists went from their stations to the fight in seconds, a couple of tables getting shoved out of the way in the process. The bartender, an elephant lykian, grabbed Brandon as he started to pull his weapon. The elven receptionist covered Billy’s crew in chilling frost, slowing them further, while the rabbit lykian shoved Jon back, then spun a wicked kick into Billy’s gut when the man lunged to grab at Jon.

“We said stop,” the elven woman who’d been behind the Rescue Squad desk said flatly.

Stomping steps came from the stairs, and an old dwarf came into view. “Banned for two days, all of you! Except the woman. If I hear of any other trouble from you, I will extend that ban and pass it along to the next tier.”

“Sir,” Stern said stiffly, “before I leave, I had a letter from Goldwood for this hall. I would also apologize, as this entire mess is my fault.”

The guild leader raised a single eyebrow. “I want to hear this. You may stay. The rest of you, out! Now!”

“Sir,” Stern said, “can we let my crew member leave first so he has a minute to put distance between himself and this crew?”

“Hmm... fair point. Granted.”

Jon nodded stiffly. “I don’t regret defending the child. Stern, see you at the next stop?”

“I’ll be there,” Stern agreed.

By the time the exodus left, the leader motioned Stern to a table. “Explain.”

“Yes, sir, and ma’am, I’m sorry. I was the one who told Becka that this might help.”

The woman sniffled. “I knew he’d have troubles in life, but to single out a mere babe…”

“Come with me,” the rabbit lykian said gently. “We can do what you wished.”

“Peter, take care of her,” the dwarf sighed. “Bridget, good reflexes on the ice. Tom, can you get the tables set again?”

“I have it, Rugar,” the elephant lykian, who’d been addressed as Tom, said.

Stern handed over the letter to the guild leader, letting the man read it as he explained his past history with Billy’s crew, then why Becka’s sister-in-law had brought the child in. He finished the recounting with Jon stopping Billy from grabbing the child.

“I see...” Rugar sighed. “Idiots. I still have to bar your crew member from the hall for fighting. Even with cause, we hold a firm line. I’ll make it a single day, instead, and as you didn’t attack, I lift yours entirely.”

“Excuse me,” Becka’s sister-in-law said. She came over to the table, her child asleep in her arms. “Might I have a minute?”

“Please,” Rugar said, standing up to help seat her.

“My son has a perk that says he’ll attract monsters to focus on him. How difficult will that make his life?”

Rugar inhaled through his teeth. “A bulwark perk... If he’s not a bulwark, it’ll make his life incredibly difficult as a Walker. If he’s not a Walker, he’ll be fine as long as he doesn’t venture into the wilds.”

“He isn’t as bad off as some,” Stern said softly. “He’ll have enough trouble, as you saw. Again, I’m sorry.”

“I don’t blame you. I was told about your empathy. I’m glad he doesn’t have that.”

Rugar hissed. “Goddess, that would be bad.”

“It was,” Stern said. “I got a perk that countered it recently. If he runs, he’d do best to focus on being a bulwark. It’ll make things easier for him and his crew.”

“There’s nothing that can be done for his… condition?”

“Miss… uh…?”

“Rana,” she said.

“Miss Rana, I heard of an irregular who did find a perk that let his skin become tanned. I’m not sure how rare it is, but there are perks for nearly everything.”

“He’s right,” Rugar nodded. “Nothing to fix all of it in one go, but there are perks to help mitigate the skin and eyes. Most think them foolish, but to an irregular, they can be everything.”

Rana exhaled a shaky breath. “Thank you. I don’t blame you, sir. Becka said you’re a good one, and she’s a good judge. Excuse me. I want to get him home.”

“Tom,” Rugar called out, “escort her home. Just in case the morons didn’t learn.”

“Yes, sir,” Tom said, coming out from around the bar.

As they left, Rugar stood up. “You didn’t do wrong, Stern. You’re just trying to help, which is admirable.”

“Thanks. Uh... I should warn you about something.”

“Yes?”

Stern leaned in and lowered his voice, “Darkhand will be here in a few days. I’ll let them know how helpful you were, but those idiots might find out the hard way how painful life can be.”

Rugar’s brow furrowed, clearly thinking Stern was having him on.

“My full name is Alistern Masterson,” Stern said softly. “Please, don’t spread that around? I’m sure it will come out soon, as it is.”

Rugar’s eyes widened as he started to nod. “That makes sense... I recall hearing of their eldest…”

“Me.”

“Those bigots have no idea what they’ve bitten off.”

“None at all,” Stern said coldly. “Mom isn’t as forgiving as I am.”

“Are any of them?”

“No. Even Julia will be pissed when she hears about the child.”

Rugar shook his head. “May the Goddess grant them mercy.”

“She’d be the only one who will. I do need to see about picking up shards from the dungeon, so please, excuse me.”

Rugar watched him go, still trying to wrap his mind around what was about to happen in his city.

Chapter Thirty-six

“News?” Stern asked when he approached Jon, standing outside the post office.

“Haven’t gone in yet,” Jon admitted. “Been putting it off.”

“Afraid to know. I get it.”

“How did it go?” Jon asked, stalling further.

“You’re just banned for a day, and my ban was removed. Kid got tested. He’s got a bulwark perk for drawing monsters to him, but that’s it for strange perks.”

“Lucky kid,” Jon said. “Do you think… when Nicole and I have a kid… they’ll be irregular, too?”

“No,” Stern said. “I’m sure there’d be a lot more irregulars if that was the case.”

“Guess that’s true... at least the kid got off lucky.”

“Come on,” Stern said, patting his shoulder. “I’ll check my mail, too.”

Jon took a calming breath before nodding. “Yeah... Okay. They’re probably wondering what’s taking us so long, as it is. Did you get a quest for shards?”

“Only two shards this time, for a Mary Lizwre. Been fractured for seven years. Her payment is just so far behind the others now.”

“I like that we’re doing this,” Jon said as they got in line. “Pulling the oldest shards that we can... I understand how you can afford it now.”

“Sometimes, I feel like I’m cheating, but since I use what my parents have given me to help others, I don’t feel so bad.”

“It also helps show that irregulars can be just like any other person,” Jon said, “since it builds up goodwill for our crew, which has you as the leader.”

“There’s that, too. If the kid is really lucky, by the time he’s old enough to be a Walker, we’ll be more accepted.”

Jon had to agree, then stepped over to the counter when he was called up. Stern went to the next open counter to check if his parents had written him back since yesterday. When the two of them met up outside, both of them had letters.

“Go ahead. I’ll check mine while you read yours,” Stern said.

Jon took a steadying breath, then opened his letter. Stern broke the seal on his and read:

Son,

We’ve had others arranging everything for us. We’ll have a big house so if you and your crew want to use it, that’d be good with us. As for the wedding, your moms have sent a few people to get things ready for it. We figure it’ll be a day or two after we arrive to have it? We’ll talk when we see you, of course, but they’re very excited.

Marysue and Gerald are very happy to hear the news, too. Marysue has been beside herself to hear that Cyra’s going to marry you. She’s been saying how romantic it is to have the brave knight rescue the damsel, then marry her. You know how she can get.

We’re all proud of you. It’ll be great to see the nickel badge all filled out on you. Okay, we have to get moving today. We’ll see you soon. Stay safe, and safe runs.

Your loving parents,

Seamus, Stacia, Karen, and Julia

Stern exhaled slowly as he put the letter away. He looked at Jon, who was putting away his own. “Well?”

“Tomorrow evening... asked to meet me the day after.”

“Do you want it to be just you and Nicole?”

“I’d like it to be all of you, so she can meet the people I call friends, too.”

“I’ll go make some arrangements, then. When did you last get a new suit?”

“Do I need a new one?” Jon asked.

“Wouldn’t hurt,” Stern chuckled. “Come on. You’ll know where I’m setting up dinner, at least.”

Jon gave Stern a questioning look, but fell into step with him. “Okay.”

~*~*~

“Everything alright?” Trish asked when they made it back to the suite.

“Bit of a story there,” Stern said.

“Jon, are you okay?” Nicole asked, getting up to go to him.

“Yeah, yeah, I’m good,” Jon said slowly. “Just getting used to what Stern thinks is worthy of his friends.”

“Did you take him with you to make reservations?” Cyra asked.

“Also stopped by a tailor to get a suit made for him. It’ll be ready tomorrow,” Stern said.

“A new suit?” Nicole asked.

“We’ll be dining at Mother’s Splendor,” Stern said. “It’s the best place in the city. Jon, you want to tell them?”

Taking a deep breath, Jon nodded. “Yeah... My sister will be in tomorrow night, and she asked to meet the day after. I left word of where we’re staying so she can find us. Stern then said we’d have dinner so she could meet Nicole and so we could have our friends there. Then, he took me off to get a new suit, saying it’d be ‘for the best.’”

“Well... we did get new dresses recently,” Nicole said softly. “Not sure they’ll work for a fancy place.”

“They will,” Trish grinned. “Figured we’d hit a place like it in the future, which is why I was all excited about getting them the other day.”

“I agree with Trish,” Cyra said. “You looked very pretty in your new dress, Nicole.”

“I felt a little out of place in mine, but I accepted that you all thought it looked good on me,” Cammie added.

Nicole relaxed at their words. “Okay... I just want to make the best impression I can.”

“Just be you,” Jon said softly, hugging her. “All I want is for you to be happy.”

Stern let them have their moment before he coughed once. “But before all of that, we had an incident. Billy’s crew lost two people, but that didn’t stop them from causing trouble.”

He explained what had happened at the Walkers’ hall. All the women looked upset by the end of it, even Nicole.

“Those bastards!” Nicole said angrily. “They’d try to hurt a child?!”

“Yeah, but Jon stopped them,” Stern said.

Nicole hugged Jon tightly. “He’s a good man.”

“I just thought about when we have a child,” Jon murmured. “I wouldn’t have stopped with a single punch then.”

“Which is a whole different problem,” Trish grumbled. “A two-day ban is too damned light.”

“I think the guild leader here is going to make things worse for them,” Stern said. “Can’t stop them from running the dungeon, but he can make it difficult for them to find others to help them.”

“They still deserve worse,” Cammie said tightly.

“Let’s sit back and let him do his thing,” Stern said. “As much as we’d all like to teach them a short, sharp lesson, we should abide by the rules and laws.”

“Sometimes, that doesn’t feel like it’ll do what it should,” Cyra said.

“I doubt these idiots have the same political sway to work with.”

“I hope not.”

“Kind of sours the mood...” Trish grunted. “Nope. Not going to let them ruin how happy we were. Tomorrow, we run, and the day after, we have dinner with Jon’s sister. We have a lot to be happy about.”

“We do,” Jon nodded.

“We have some time before dinner,” Cammie grinned. “Shall we break out the cards and play?”

“That’d be nice,” Nicole said.

~*~*~

They played cards, had dinner, and then retired to their rooms to get a good night’s sleep before their dungeon run.

“Do you think his sister will be understanding?” Cyra asked softly while they undressed.

“I hope so,” Cammie sighed. “It’ll gut Nicole if she isn’t.”

“Jon will take it hard, but yeah... Nicole would be hurt worse,” Trish agreed.

“It sounds hopeful, from what Jon’s let slip,” Stern said. “I can’t imagine her being hateful with all the effort she’s putting in to see them.”

“Or she wants to ‘save’ him.” Trish added finger quotes around the word as she said it. “She could be like the idiots.”

“I really don’t think so,” Stern said. “You’d think her letters would’ve hinted at that.”

“But you haven’t seen the letters, have you?” Cammie asked. “What if he’s just reading them in the best light possible?”

“Fooling himself that it’ll be better?” Trish asked.

“Yeah.”

“That’ll hurt them both,” Cyra said.

“It really would,” Stern agreed. “And I haven’t read them, but I’m going to hold out hope. If she does turn out to be a spiteful, hateful person, we’ll be there for them.”

“We will,” Trish nodded. “I’ll throw a glass of something on her, at the very least.”

“Make that at least two glasses,” Cammie added.

“Three,” Cyra finished with a nod.

“She’ll basically be a splattered mess,” Stern snorted. “But seriously, I hope she’s understanding and just misses her brother. If you loved your sibling and then he was thrown out by your family for the simple act of loving someone, maybe you’d be her, too.”

Cammie smiled softly. “I hope you’re right, just like I hope Vulk understands when he finds out about us.”

“That’ll be interesting, considering he flatly asked Stern if we were going to rope you into the relationship,” Trish snickered. “Should we invite them to the wedding when we have it?”

“No. He needs time to settle in firmly with Emma,” Cammie said. “I also want to put it off until after we’re married. Then, he’ll just sigh and accept it.”

“Okay,” Stern said, taking her hand. “If that’s what you want.”

“We’ll go down and see them at some point,” Trish said. “Maybe in another tier or two at most?”

“We can do that,” Stern agreed.

“Thank you,” Cammie murmured, naked as she slipped into Stern’s arms. “I’m happy here with all of you. It makes me happier to know you’ll want to go back and visit my family after we’re married.”

Trish caught Cyra in a hug, seeing the strained smile. “Hey, now, fluffy bunny... shh... We’re here for you. I’m sure Stern’s family will find something out about your family for you.”

“Sorry... I’m good,” Cyra sighed, hugging Trish back. “It just... digs at me occasionally.”

“We understand,” Stern murmured. He and Cammie shifted over to surround Cyra.

Cammie kissed Cyra’s cheek. “We love you. We’ll be beside you forever.”

Cyra ducked her head, a smile coming to her. “Now I feel silly.”

“But you also feel loved,” Stern smiled, kissing her other cheek. “Come on. It’s time for bed. We have a dungeon to run tomorrow.”

“But before sleep, we’re going to shower you with love,” Trish whispered to Cyra. “All the love for our fluffy bunny.”

Cyra flushed, then smiled brightly as they took her to bed.

Chapter Thirty-seven

Stern noticed that Jon was being quieter than usual during breakfast. As they went downstairs, Becka called out to them; other Walkers took note, and a few were startled to see two irregulars in their group.

“My sister-in-law told me about yesterday,” Becka said.

“Sorry for her having trouble. I didn’t expect the idiot brigade to be there,” Stern apologized.

“No, we know what his perks are now,” Becka smiled, then turned her gaze to Jon. “Thank you for getting in their way. I heard how you stopped them from touching him.”

“I couldn’t just do nothing.”

“You’re a good man, and a wonderful bulwark to step in for him.”

Nicole smiled as she touched his arm. “He is a good man, but he’s not our bulwark, even if he has protected me from the first day we’ve been together.”

“Oh?”

Trish chuckled. “I’m the bulwark, normally, but Jon helps fill in at times. He’s our all-rounder. Fills in the spots we need as the dungeon dictates.”

“Ah, I see. Well, he was a bulwark when my sister needed it. I’ll be discounting your stay for however long you are here. My family thanks you.”

“I just did what was right,” Jon said softly. “Oh... my sister might show up later tonight or tomorrow, looking for me. If she does, will you send someone up to my room for me?”

“Of course. Safe runs, Walkers.”

“Have a good day,” Jon replied, a smile coming to his lips.

As they left the inn, Stern glanced back at Jon. “Feeling better?”

“Huh?”

“You’ve been really quiet this morning, more than normal.”

“Thinking about my sister,” Jon admitted. “Becka just snapped me out of that, and I’m focused on the dungeon now.”

“Glad to hear it.”

It didn’t take them very long to reach the dungeon, and they found another crew heading in the same direction. One gave them curious glances, but most were distracted by Pawly floating along above them.

“What’s the story with that?” one of the other crew asked.

“Pawly? She’s a summons,” Stern said. “Mine from birth.”

“Because of what you are?”

“Not the worst way I’ve heard it phrased,” Stern snorted. “But yes, because I’m an irregular. Her flying is another perk.”

“Summons at birth, but she’s a cat, right? Just a cat?”

“Nothing just about Pawly,” Trish snorted. “Ever seen a cat that large, with those feet? Pawly, show him your mitts.”

Pawly floated down, then flexed her overly large feet.

“Does… she have extra toes?”

“She’s polydactyl,” Cyra giggled.

“Huh... but is she useful in the dungeons now? I can see where she might’ve been in the first few... maybe as a scout still, but that’s about it.”

“What’s your name?” Stern asked.

“Travis Baldree, leader of Cryptid Legends.”

“Nice to meet you. I’m Stern, leader of Pawsitively Irregular.”

Travis’ brow furrowed. “You named your crew that?”

“Technically, my father did, but it fit us. To answer your earlier question, though…” His fingers flexed, letting both Pawly and Zasha get all of their upgrades. “She’s still useful. Integral, even, like Zasha here.” He thumped the stone armor on the happy dog.

Travis and his whole crew backed up a little. “That’s... wow. Wait… how many perks was that?”

“Most of mine,” Stern said. “We’ve been noticing that we’ve had a lot of unusual perks show up. More now with Nicole in our crew.”

Travis glanced at the masked woman. “Two irregulars in the same crew... are you saying irregulars get odd choices?”

“We’ve all had some rare or unusual choices,” Trish said. “We’re compiling a list so others understand what benefits being a good crew for an irregular might mean.”

“Unlike those assholes from the other day,” Travis snorted. “Hope you don’t run into them.”

“If you mean the Pure Walkers crew, we’ve run into them a few times now,” Stern shook his head.

“We told them to shut up when they started the night they reached town. Like, really? It’s hard enough being a Walker. To hate others on top of that is just dumb.”

“It really is,” Stern agreed.

They made it around the last corner to the open market area around the dungeon. Brisk business was taking place as some crews stocked up on last minute salves and items. The guards stood near a downward sloping tunnel in the middle of the area— a line had formed in front of them, and the guards checked each crew before letting them pass.

“Never understood that,” Travis sighed. “Why the guards? It’s not like the dungeon will let you in unless you qualify.”

“To stop problems,” Jon said. “The idiots you spoke of almost started a fight with us in the last city.”

“Guards basically had to step in to stop them,” Cammie said. “We could’ve easily taken them on, but that’s no good for anyone involved.”

“I’m glad we didn’t fight them,” Nicole said softly. She was a little uncomfortable without her cloak, but Jon had convinced her to go without it for the day.

“Might have looked bad for your crew if you had,” Travis nodded. “I’m sure they would’ve tried to spin it as you attacking them.”

“Of course,” Cyra muttered. “People like them never accept their own faults.”

“Holy fuck!” someone shouted, pointing up at Pawly.

A commotion started to spread, and Stern shook his head. “Yeah... should’ve taken those perks back.”

“And miss this?” Travis laughed. “Look at them, it’s amazing! Hey, everyone! Pay attention. That’s Pawly, a summons. Yes, a summons! She belongs to this guy, Stern. He’s the leader of a crew called Pawsitively Irregular. Look at her paws, then at him, and see if you can figure it out.”

Laughter started as Pawly waved one of her oversized paws in benediction. The crowd chattered excitedly, talking and pointing at Pawly.

“Sir, is she a danger?” the guard captain called out.

“She’s fine as long as no one threatens us,” Stern called back. “This is her fully kitted out for a run.”

“Did you say fully kittened out?” Travis laughed.

Stern rolled his eyes as more laughter rose from the crowd. “You know I didn’t. If you want, sir, I can reduce her perks.”

“Wait... that’s not her normal form?” someone asked. “I thought she was a monster cat.”

Stern’s fingers flexed, leaving Pawly with flight and Zasha with only the ability to spit a spike of earth. “That’s her base, plus the flying. I’m not going to let her fall.”

“Wow... she’s beautiful,” a woman said, reaching up. “Can I pet you?”

Pawly floated lower, extending her neck to the woman, purring as she was petted.

“Mind the belly. It’s a trap,” Trish warned when she saw another person reach up. The hand was jerked back quickly.

“Please keep her smaller and not electrified until you are in the dungeon, sir,” the captain exhaled. “Next crew, come on. Keep the line moving.”

“Man, today’s been amazing,” Travis laughed. “Safe runs to you.”

“And to your crew, as well,” Nicole said softly.

“This is our last run,” Travis grinned. “We’ll be moving on after this. Just wanted to get the most we could out of it. Your first, I see?” He motioned at their badges.

“Yeah,” Cammie said. “We’re one and done. Rescue Squad gets our other runs.”

“Oh. I hear they pay well if you’re called on. Is that true?”

“It is. If they ask you to pull a shard, it’s always above what the standard is,” Stern said. “The important part is that, if you are dedicated to them, they’ll prioritize your shards.”

“So worth leaving a third run open?” Travis asked.

“It is for some. Others, not as much,” Stern shrugged. He looked over their gear. “For where you are right now, giving up your third run wouldn’t be terrible. You look better-geared than many at this tier.”

“Except for your crew,” Travis chuckled. “Good armor and weapons all around. I was originally going to ask about the crossbow and why you’re carrying that big ass bag.”

“Always be prepared, and it’s pneumatic. A new type of crossbow that comes from Winterspring. I found it farther down from here, and thought it was worth it.”

“I’ll have to look into it. The contraption there holds more bolts?”

“Yup. Fires almost as fast as a bowman.”

“Definitely worth looking into, then,” Travis murmured.

“They really are, but pricey as hell,” Stern warned him as they slowly moved forward in line.

“How much?”

“This one was a gold.”

“Crap. Seriously?”

“Came with the magazines, so you have more ready if needed. Also had two rune slots open when I bought it. The crossbow itself works off an enchantment and rune combination.”

“Damn...” Travis sighed. “Yeah, that would explain the cost. If we scrimped, we might be able to afford one. I’d say another tier or two before I really try to get one. Where did you find it?”

“Darkstone. The proprietor of the shop had it sent down to them from a family member. Said she’d held onto it for a while and was frustrated with trying to sell it.”

“For that cost, no wonder,” Travis snorted. “You obviously had the coin.”

“Depleted my savings at the time.”

“I can see that,” Travis nodded. “Again, safe runs.”

“Next,” the guard said.

“Safe runs,” Stern told Travis before looking back. “Pawly, it’s time.”

Pawly came floating his way quicker than normal.

“Pawsitively Irregular, sir,” Trish was telling the captain. “Full crew.”

“Safe run,” the captain nodded. “Thank you for being understanding about the summons.”

“We do our best to abide, sir,” Stern said, following the others down the tunnel. “We won’t start any trouble.”

“Glad to hear it.”

The tunnel was wide enough for four abreast, which made sense if you considered two groups might be passing each other. The bottom of the decline ended right at the swirling mist of the dungeon.

Stern glanced up and around, nodding when he saw the bracing that made sure the tunnel was stable, regardless of who was above them. He passed through the mist last, ready to see what this dungeon would give them as a challenge.

Chapter Thirty-eight

Stern gave the room a long scan. “Something humanoid lives in these tunnels.”

“My thoughts, too,” Trish agreed. “From the floor to four feet up has been worked over. It’s primitive, but it’s worked.”

“It’s stone, so the environment discounts some of the monsters it could be,” Stern said. “We need to be looking for alternate passages smaller people can use. This way, Cammie can trap them behind us.”

“Can Zasha take rear guard?” Nicole asked. “So we have a solid bulwark on each end?”

“Good idea. Zasha?”

Zasha gave a soft bark, but it echoed.

“Try to keep the barking to a minimum, buddy,” Stern said, patting Zasha’s head.

Pawly was already floating by the tunnel out of the first room.

“Tunnel looks like we might be able to go two by two, but let’s keep it single file for now,” Trish said. “Jon, right behind me, just in case I need help shoring the front up.”

“Yeah,” Jon nodded.

“Cyra, behind him. Nicole, Cammie, Stern, and then Zasha,” Trish said.

They made sure their gear was ready, then followed Trish toward where Pawly was waiting. When they reached her, Pawly floated down the tunnel ahead of them. It was only eight feet tall, so Pawly could reach the floor with her tentacles if she floated belly-up. Trish let Pawly get farther ahead of her so she didn’t have a cat butt in her face.

The first tunnel was straight, but took a hard left before a quick switch to the right. That gave no lead-up to the next room, as the switchback dumped right into an oblong chamber. Pawly charged forward, as there were three monsters in it.

Trish charged in, heading for the one farthest to the side. The crackle of Pawly’s fur and the shink-shink of Trish’s scalemail got the monsters to turn to find out what the noise was. The first one Pawly hit jolted, then collapsed to the ground. The second monster managed a brief scream before her tentacle tore its throat out. The third yelled out and turned to bolt, but Trish was already too close, her hammer smashing into its head.

The others had hurried into the room, but slowed when they found the monsters already down. Pawly went back to her first target and ripped its throat out, too. Stern got closer to see the dead before they could vanish.

“Cobolds,” Stern said. “Makes sense. They prefer natural traps, so we need to keep an eye out for rock falls or disguised pits. They have no real weaknesses, like goblin’s feet, and they’re intelligent enough to warn the others and ambush us.”

“They’ll dig tunnels in from other rooms,” Trish said, looking around, then pointing. “That should be one of theirs.”

The tunnel she pointed to was maybe a foot tall, so even the three-foot-tall cobolds would have to crawl through them. Cammie went over to examine the tunnel. Cyra spotted a second one on a different wall, calling it to their attention.

Cammie pulled her pack off, digging in it before pulling out bits and pieces, then assembling a trap for the tunnel. When she’d finished, she picked up the extra parts she’d pulled out and went to it, repeating the trap.

Stern brought her forgotten bag over to her when she finished creating the second trap. “What did you rig?”

“Noise makers with small, poison-tipped metal pieces on them. If one of them trips it, they’ll get nauseous. Make it hard for them to fight.”

“That will work.”

“I didn’t get a good look at them,” Nicole said. “What do they look like?”

“About this tall,” Stern said, using his hand to measure off the floor. “They’re a dusky-skin color, making it easier for them to fade into the rock around us. They wear at most a rough pair of pants, though most will be naked. They have long ears that jut out and up from their heads— they have exceptional hearing.”

There was a faint knocking on stone that made them all pause.

“And that’s how they communicate through their tunnels,” Stern said. “Dad always said the knocking has meaning, but he didn’t know what any of it meant. They never found a friendly cobold to ask.”

“Are they smart enough to circle around behind us?” Cyra asked.

“Yes. Pawly, you need to walk on the ceilings, please. You’ll trigger any deadfalls they rigged that way. Zasha, we need you up front, and Jon to the back. Zasha goes first. He has a better chance of detecting false floors, since he’s earth-aligned.”

“If Zasha’s up front, I’ll take rear,” Trish said. “This way, we have our two best bulwarks on either end.

“Any questions, comments, or concerns?”

“My spells are going to be underutilized in these tunnels,” Nicole said.

“In the tunnels, yes. If we find rooms with more cobolds, you’ll get the chance to really let go,” Stern said.

“Okay.”

With no one else asking questions, Stern nodded. “Zasha, Pawly, you’re up.”

The pair of animals trotted off to the next opening, ready to lead.

~*~*~

Stern grunted as he leaned against the wall. “How many damned cobolds live in this cave system?”

“Well over a hundred,” Jon sighed.

“Everyone relax,” Stern said as he shrugged his bag off. “I have some jerky. We’re taking a small break.”

“I’m getting low on parts,” Cammie said. “If this doesn’t end soon, we’ll have real trouble.”

“It can’t be much longer,” Trish said. “We know the stupid thing wove back and forth over all those splits. It was impossible to not have them come at us from multiple sides at once. Your traps that we left behind slowed that down, at least.”

“Finding a few of them clearly recovering from the poison was different,” Nicole agreed.

“The rooms where they’d gathered would’ve been bad if not for Nicole,” Cyra said. “Her area spells really helped.”

Stern handed around chunks of jerky. “If we’re lucky, we’ll only have a couple more rooms, and then the boss. Thinking over how we’ve wound through the place, I think we’ve hit all the previous areas we could. The only other rooms would’ve been only accessible through the tunnels.”

“We can’t make it through those,” Jon said.

“Pawly and Zasha could if they shrunk down,” Trish suggested.

“Don’t think it’s worth it,” Stern said. “Just throwing the comment out that I think it’ll be over soon.”

“Then why did we stop here?” Cyra asked.

“To make sure we’re refreshed for the boss. Going farther in would make it more likely one of us makes a mistake. We’ve all been lagging.”

“I have been,” Jon admitted. “I’m glad we switched Trish back to the front before we found the big rooms.”

“We’d only had one or two come up behind us, and the two of us can deal with that,” Stern said. “It made sense.”

“Which is why I agreed,” Trish nodded.

~*~*~

After ten minutes of eating their jerky, sipping their water, and relaxing, they finally made it back to their feet. Pawly took the lead again, with Zasha and Trish behind her. Jon and Stern lingered in the back of the line, ready to assist with anything that came up behind them or to rush forward.

An insistent tapping started up as they went deeper into the dungeon. The twisting tunnel led them closer to the source of tapping. Before the final turn, another smaller tunnel split off from it.

Cammie bent over to trap it, but Stern motioned her to wait. He knelt down, examining it, then nodded. “It’s wider. I think we can use this one.”

Everyone paused, coming back to hear the whispered conversation.

“I’m going to follow this. It looks like the spots that dad told me about. Some boss fights have areas that can be exploited by smart Walkers. I want to go down to check it.”

“Send Pawly or Zasha,” Trish said. “Let them check for traps first.”

“Pawly?”

Chuffing, Pawly moved to the edge of the tunnel and waited. When she shrank back to her normal size, she snuck into the opening. Her tentacles contacted the upper edges while she splayed out, making sure she covered as much space as possible.

The wait was terrible for Stern, but in time, they saw her coming back. When she emerged, she bumped Stern with her head first. He petted her, happy that she was okay.

“What did you see, Pawly?” Trish asked.

Pawly dug into the stone floor once, using her tentacles to make a large circle around it.

“Boss in the room ahead. The offshoot?” Stern asked.

Pawly touched a part of the imaginary circle before her tentacle rose off the floor by a foot, patting the air.

“An overhang,” Jon nodded. “So Stern was right.”

“How many can use it?” Nicole asked.

Pawly hesitated, then patted the ground twice.

“Nicole and I will go,” Stern said. “Her magic and my crossbow will work best from above.”

“I don’t like splitting the crew, but since Pawly checked it, fine,” Trish sighed. “We’ll give you a minute, and then head on.”

Stern stripped his bag off, placing it beside the tunnel. “I’ll have to get it afterward.”

“Be safe,” Cyra whispered, kissing his cheek.

“You, too,” Stern murmured, then kissed her, Cammie, and Trish.

When Nicole finished kissing Jon, Stern made Pawly large again, then led Nicole into the small tunnel.

It was an unpleasant stomach crawl all the way down, past a couple of turns, before it opened up onto a ledge. The exit was back from the edge, allowing Stern and Nicole to exit the crawlspace. Stern checked his crossbow and got ready to help once he heard the fight start. Nicole looked away from him, adjusting her mask with her back to him. It’d been askew, but still covered enough of her face for her perk to not affect anyone.

Exhaling in relief when she felt the mask back in place, Nicole glanced back to him. He gave her a small shrug as they waited. Time seemed to stretch out for them and, after a minute, Stern duck-walked a little closer to the edge to look down.

The cave system had the same lightly glowing moss that every other cave had, allowing those with night vision or better-than-human vision to see easily enough. The room below them had a twenty-foot ceiling, with the ledge seven feet from the top. Small beds dotted the room; in the middle was a grander area, clearly the boss’ spot. The cobold standing there wore stone armor and walked with heavier footsteps than he should.

Stone-infused, Stern thought. That’ll make things tough for Zasha... Pawly and the boss will be extra damage to each other... The others will have a hard time even hurting it. Trish’s hammer is the best chance to manage it.

Nicole gave him a questioning look when he waddled back to her. “Well?” Her word was a whisper.

“Stone-infused. Use cold,” Stern whispered back.

Nicole nodded, her palms sweating. Where are they? She worried as time seemed to stretch out.

A sudden roar came from below them, followed by the sound of things being bowled aside. That got Stern to stand up and step forward, his crossbow up. Nicole rushed to his side, magic forming around her hands.

Zasha came charging through the room, Pawly flying above and behind him. The rest trailed the two summons, clearly taking stock of the stone armor the boss was wearing. Trish shouted commands— Cammie and Cyra stayed back and Jon slowed down, as he was to protect them in case the boss leapt.

As Trish rushed behind Zasha, the boss’ first ability became known when a pit opened in front of her. Trish leapt sideways, making it past the edge and rolling when she hit the ground. That delayed her from getting closer.

Zasha spat a spike of earth just before Stern’s bolt and Nicole’s Iceball slammed home. The cobold jerked his arm wide, then lunged at Zasha. Stern grabbed Nicole, throwing them both backward. Earth spikes from the boss flew through the spot they’d been in when they hit the ground.

“Thanks,” Nicole panted.

“Cast, but if he motions at us, get back and down,” Stern said as he got to his feet.

“Okay,” Nicole panted as she struggled to get up.

Zasha and the boss clashed with the crack of stone hitting stone. The two were not doing a lot to each other, but it looked like a vicious fight. When Pawly zoomed in, her tentacles hit the boss, discharging her lightning. The boss screamed out as his whole body locked up. Unfortunately, Zasha had been biting the cobold, so he let out a pained whimper as the discharge surged through him.

That moment of paralysis let Trish rush forward again. She was halfway there when the boss shook off the stun. It hissed at Trish, who jumped for all she was worth, clearing the pit that appeared in front of her by mere inches. She stumbled, rolled, and came back up running. The boss turned its eyes to Cyra, Cammie, and Jon in the back and laughed.

Stern’s bolt and Nicole’s spell hit it as Zasha scrambled to regain its attention, jerking its gaze from the trio to them. The laugh deepened, and Stern grabbed Nicole, knowing something new was coming. He was dragging her back with him as part of the ledge broke off, falling to the floor.

“Fuck!” Stern gasped when he pushed against the wall. “One more salvo, then we’ll have to retreat.”

“Yes,” Nicole said with quick, shallow breaths.

“Wait,” Stern grinned. “Pawly, I need you!”

Nicole’s breath caught as she understood what he was thinking.

Pawly dive-bombed the boss, stunning him again, before she flew over to them. She could fly almost as fast as she could run, but rarely did. Stern nudged Nicole toward her.

“Take Nicole down to the others. It’s too dangerous up here. I’ll go back down the tunnel.”

Pawly chuffed as Nicole climbed onto her broad back, grabbing Pawly’s neck fur tightly. As Pawly flew off, Stern aimed and fired just before Trish got to the boss, who was shaking off the last stun.

Trish’s swing came right after Stern’s bolt. Oddly enough, her strike slammed into the back of the bolt, driving it even farther into the boss. Screaming in pain and rage, the cobold stomped his feet, and the whole cavern shook.

Stern scrambled to grab the wall. His crossbow dangled on its sling as he did, but he didn’t grab anything before the ledge crumbled and he fell with the rocks.

“Stern!” Cyra screamed, rushing his way. Cammie and Jon ran after her when they saw him fall.

Pawly dropped quickly beside the debris, and Nicole started to dig before the others could get to help.

The noise of the fight vanished a moment later as the others dug through the rubble. Stern groaned as he pushed a thin slab of rock off himself. His whole body ached, his left leg worse than the rest of him.

“Stern?!” Cyra asked worriedly; one of her heals infused him in the next moment.

“Leg... moderate,” he panted against the continuous pain.

She used her bigger healing perk as the others finished digging him out. They all saw his broken leg briefly before Cyra’s spell set it. She sniffled as she used her last healing ability for the day to make sure he was okay.

Stern let out a rough breath when the pain vanished. “I’m okay now.”

“That ledge worked, but also didn’t,” Trish said as she came toward them.

“Glad you got Nicole down before it collapsed,” Jon said, hugging his wife.

“We need to salve our hands,” Cammie added. “I know I have a few cuts from digging him out.”

“You killed it?” Stern asked as he was helped out of the rubble.

“With your help,” Trish snorted. “Your last bolt hit right where I was striking. It drove the bolt in, and it dropped a moment later. The exit orb appeared right after that.”

Stern snorted. “The luck from the bolt being in the right place was offset by me falling.”

Cyra kissed him passionately when he got to her. “I was so scared.”

“Sorry...” Stern murmured when the kiss ended.

“These two made it much easier for us,” Cammie said, patting Pawly and Zasha. “They always do.”

“They’re good friends,” Stern smiled.

“It’s done. We need to go get your bag,” Trish said. “Then it’s shards, perks, and out of the dungeon.”

“Yeah. Come on, Zasha. Let’s get my bag,” Stern said.

“Maybe we should all go?” Nicole suggested softly. “Just in case we missed some earlier?”

Stern nodded. “That’s for the best. Thanks for reminding me about that. Just because we beat the boss doesn’t necessarily mean the dungeon is cleared once we get to higher tiers.”

As a group, they headed back the way they’d come to reclaim Stern’s bag.

Chapter Thirty-nine

“Welcome back,” Ria smiled when they appeared in the shop. “Did you want to start with shards?”

“As we normally do,” Stern nodded. “Mary Lizwre is her name.”

“Yes, two shards. Here you are,” Ria smiled as two parts of a half heart appeared on the counter.

“Thank you.”

“Would you like to spend the rest of your points or choose your perks?”

“Perks,” Stern said. “I’ll go first this time, if that’s okay?” He looked over his shoulder at the others.

They agreed it was, so Ria placed three pages on the counter before him.

Stern took a moment to look them over. He snorted at the first and nodded at the second before sighing as he set the third one down. “Well, I’m pretty sure I know which one I’m going to take.”

“What are the options?” Trish asked.

“The first is Self-Healing. The second option is Empathic Resonance. While the last, staying true to form, is a summons perk. It’s the third companion slot again.”

“You don’t need the second one,” Cammie said. “The three of us can see your love in everything you do and say.”

“Agreed,” Cyra nodded. “It’s between healing or a third friend.”

“It’s Stern,” Trish said. “A third friend might be just what we need at times.”

“Pawly? Zasha?” Stern asked, turning the two pages around in his hands. “What do you think?”

Zasha trotted over and stood up to lick Stern’s right hand, since he was in his smaller form. Pawly floated over, dropping down to his right side and purring.

Stern put the other page back and took a seat against the counter. “If you’re both sure.”

“Companion?” Jon asked.

“Yeah,” Stern replied. “Since they’re okay with it, I’ll do it. They’ve been key to a lot of our runs so far. Others might call me a fool, but they just don’t understand what we can manage.”

Taking a deep breath, Stern willed the perk to be his. The bright light burst the page apart, then flooded him with power. He jerked in place— all of his muscles locked up before he slumped into unconsciousness.

“Stern?!” Cyra rushed to his side, touching him. After a moment, she let out a shuddering breath. “He’s okay...”

“We’ll want to lay down for this and every dungeon going forward, it seems,” Trish said softly. “I’ll go next.”

“Go ahead,” Jon said, holding Nicole. They watched Stern to see how long it was going to take for him to wake up.

Ria collected Stern’s unwanted perks, then gave Trish a smile as she set down the next three. “Choose well.”

Trish nodded before she checked her options. Her hands shook as she set them down. “Well... the Goddess is being mean today.”

“What did you get?” Jon asked.

“Iron Mind again. Improved Runic Crafter, which would let me add two slots... or the last one... Distant Protector. If I can see the person I can use Protector on them.”

“But… how would that work?” Cammie asked slowly. “You normally trade places with the person you protect.”

“It might mean we still change places, or it could mean I just end up next to them. I’m not sure.”

“You’d change places,” Ria said gently. “Ending up next to someone is the perk Bodyguard.”

“Oh, right. I know that one,” Trish said. “I forgot about it.”

“Improved Runic Crafter...” Jon breathed out in wonder. “That perk is worth a mint to any crafter.”

“While Distant Protector will allow her to save one of us if needed,” Nicole said softly.

“And Iron Mind is a rare perk all by itself,” Cyra said, gently stroking Stern’s hair.

“What are you going to take, Trish?” Cammie asked.

Trish exhaled, looking between the three perks. “It’s a tough call... if I’d had Distant Protector earlier, I could’ve swapped places with Stern when he fell. I wouldn’t have taken anywhere near as bad an injury as he had, so there are times it would be better for us in a fight.” Shaking her head, she looked up at Pawly. “Pawly? Help, please?”

Pawly glided down, pushing a single page toward her.

“Protecting those we love is important,” Trish said, petting Pawly. “Thanks.”

Pawly purred before floating back up.

Trish took a spot on the ground, resting her head on Stern’s stomach. “This might get complicated, depending on how long he’s out.” When she accepted the perk, her body went rigid as she passed out, too.

“I’ll go next,” Jon said. “May the Goddess grant me choices like Trish had.”

Ria gave him a bright smile as she laid out his choices. “May she smile upon you, Walker.”

Jon dismissed the first page with a grunt— he didn’t see value in Thick Skin at this point. The second page was Improved Runic Crafter, and his hands shook at seeing it. Setting it down slowly, he almost grabbed it and took it before he could second guess his choice. When he picked up the third page, he nearly dismissed it until he looked up at Ria. “Would this let me ignore fear?”

“Most fear. Fear caused by Ghastly Visage would be negated.”

“Jon?” Nicole asked with hope in her voice.

He turned to face her, holding the third page. “Iron Mind. I could see you… finally.”

Nicole swallowed— she wanted her perk negated, but to let him see her in private was also high on her list of wants. “The others?”

“Doesn’t matter. I want to see you. I know you’re beautiful, regardless of your perk. This will let me take your mask off when we’re alone.”

“Iron Mind is still very useful for dungeons, too,” Stern murmured, feeling wrung out. “Take it.”

Jon moved up to Nicole. “Is this okay, my love?”

“Yes.” She hugged him tightly, kissing his neck. “Please.”

Jon slowly lowered them both to the ground. His head ended up on Nicole’s thighs as she knelt for him to rest there. “I’ll see you soon, dearest.” When the perk entered him, Nicole held him and cried happy tears.

The other three who were awake watched with happiness for them. They’d all known that Jon and Nicole wanted to be able to remove the mask when they could safely.

“I’ll go,” Cammie exhaled a shaky breath. “Wish me luck.”

“Luck,” Stern and Cyra said together.

“Cammie, take your time. Choose well,” Ria said, swapping perks out.

Cammie closed her eyes, calming her nerves. Opening them, she started reading her options. Her eyes widened, and kept widening as she read each. When she finished, she was unsure of what to do.

“Uh... so this is… yeah,” Cammie said. “I can take Improved Long Trapper; line of sight regardless of what trap is used. I can pick Improved Magical Trapper 1, so I can make three magical traps a day with Nicole, and it sounds like it can upgrade again... or I can take Duplicate Trap. That’ll give me an identical copy of any trap I make, with all the bonuses or restrictions of the first one, and the summoned trap isn’t restricted by other perks.”

“Does that mean you could make two magical traps a day with Nicole?” Cyra asked.

“It does,” Ria said.

“That could be huge later,” Stern said. “If you keep getting trap bonuses, you could duplicate it, but the other two are good, too. Tough choices.”

“What do I do?” Cammie asked. “The choice is so hard.”

Pawly floated down, purring, brushing against Cammie’s back. Cammie turned around to see Pawly push a perk toward her.

“This one?”

Pawly meowed at her in response.

“She says Duplicate Trap,” Cammie informed them.

“She’s picked Trish’s, and she’s picked mine before,” Cyra said. “We trust her to help us a lot.”

“True,” Cammie nodded. “Zasha, do you agree?”

Zasha barked softly, giving her a doggy grin.

“Okay.” Cammie took the perk off the counter. She arranged herself to rest against Trish as Stern eased himself out from under her. “Good, I was hoping you’d be up to help Cyra. See you in a bit.”

“We’ll be here,” Stern said.

Cammie passed out as the others had. Cyra checked her, then took Stern’s offered hand to stand up. “I’ll go next so Nicole can stay with Jon.”

“For the best,” Stern murmured, rubbing her back. “We’ll be here to help.”

“I hate perks now...” Trish grumbled, waking up.

“When I see my father, I’m going to chew him out for underplaying how bad it is.”

“Cyra, may the Goddess bless you,” Ria said as she placed the perks out for inspection.

Cyra read two of them quickly, having seen them before, then paused to read the third. “Improved Life Sense 3 again, as well as Greater Mirrored Ally. The new one is Bulwark’s Staunch Defender, which would let me use the ability three times a day instead of once. I tried to use it on you when you fell, Stern, but it didn’t help there. It has to be an actual attack; the rocks didn’t count.”

“Any of them would still be good,” Jon murmured as he woke up. “Nicole, it’s unpleasant, but I’ll be here to hold you when you take your turn.”

Nicole kissed him, sniffling. “I know. Cyra is choosing, and then I go.”

“Improved Life Sense 3 again,” Stern murmured. “We keep getting that one.”

“It lets me pick the spot for my perk to work instead of it coming from me,” Cyra reminded them.

“And I think it’s another stepping stone,” Stern said gently. “Honestly, it sounds like the least of the three, but I keep thinking that it’ll unlock something better next.”

“I kind of want it, just to see.”

“Then take it. We’ll back your choice,” Stern told her.

“Agreed,” Jon added as Nicole helped him to his feet.

Cyra took the perk off the counter and went to lay with her two lovers. Cammie was still out, but Trish, seeing Cyra with paper in hand, opened her arms to the rabbit lykian.

“Come here. I got you.”

Stern knelt down beside Cyra as she lay down. “Go ahead. We’ll be here for you.”

Cyra’s body bucked, then went rigid as the perk flowed into her.

Nicole shivered when she approached Ria. “Ria, may I?”

“Of course, Nicole. May you find what you seek.”

Nicole swallowed as she picked up the first page. “Mostly Harmless, again.” She took a little longer with the second page. “Slow Fall. I would drift when falling for the first thirty feet. That makes sense, considering what just happened.”

“Yeah, it does,” Stern agreed.

Nicole picked up the third page. She read it, then read it again, and then a third time before she looked up at Jon. “It’s not what I truly wanted, but it’s still…” She showed him.

Jon read it over and whistled softly. “Goddess, that perk…”

“What is it?” Stern asked.

“I’d like to know, too,” Trish added.

“Me, too,” Cammie mumbled as she started waking up.

“Friendly Fire Doesn’t Exist. Any ally in her area of effect spells would take no damage from them,” Jon said.

“Holy fuck...” Stern whispered. “That perk is ultra-rare. Marysue barely picked it up two years ago. Dad and the others called it a game-changer. It made it so much easier to handle large groups.”

“This will make the monsters target me more often, won’t it?” Nicole asked.

“It will,” Stern admitted, “but we have Trish and Zasha to bulwark for you, along with the rest of us to help.”

Nicole took a calming breath before she took the page off the counter. “But it’s that big of a perk, isn’t it...? This would make crews clamor for me?”

“It would,” Stern said softly. “That perk, along with your ability to cast area spells for both ice and fire, would have crews up into the precious metal tiers asking you to join them.”

“I have my crew,” Nicole said softly. “My friends, who treasured me for myself, not my perks... But if it would mean that much to others, then it’s the best choice for us.”

“It’s a good choice,” Jon said softly, kissing her cheek.

Jon helped Nicole to the ground, holding her to his chest. He whispered softly to her as the light of the perk infused her, making her spasm in his arms.

Stern stood up, going to the counter. “Thank you, Ria. Once they’re all up, we’ll need to spend the rest of our points.”

“I understand. You all had some tough choices.”

“If Zasha or Pawly hadn’t agreed, I’d have chosen differently.”

“But they’re a part of you. They wouldn’t tell you not to have another friend. A friend for you is a friend for them.”

Pawly purred as she drifted down to rest on the counter, and Zasha shifted over to lick Stern’s hand. He gave them both smiles, making sure to pet them both while they waited.

Chapter Forty

“Okay, now that we’re all up again,” Stern smiled at Ria, “let’s talk about our remaining points.”

“Someone just failed to complete the dungeon and his crew couldn’t pull all the shards,” Ria said. “Would you like to pull the last shard?”

“Who?”

“Travis Baldree.”

“Yes,” Stern said without hesitation.

“Very well. How would you like your points broken down for you?”

“Add ours to his,” Jon said. “He’s done right for us.”

“Agreed,” Nicole nodded.

“And ours stay as they have been,” Trish added. “All to Stern.”

“With all points given to Stern, and adding the crew points you have a total— after the shards— of five thousand three hundred and seventeen,” Ria smiled.

“Goddess,” Jon exhaled.

“Your foes were numerous, crafty in their own ways, and the boss was… advanced.”

“Abnormal for what most would have at this point,” Stern said.

“Indeed,” Ria agreed, “but is that so… irregular?”

“Well played,” Cammie snorted. “We’ll have to keep it in mind.”

“Glad we didn’t rune Zasha’s collar, yet,” Stern chuckled. “Three rune collars are how much?”

“Oh, yes,” Nicole said, nodding emphatically.

“One thousand five hundred each,” Ria smiled broadly.

“Wait... you haven’t summoned the new one yet, have you?” Cyra asked.

“Not yet,” Stern said. “Let me have a blue collar with three slots, please.”

One appeared on the counter and Stern picked it up, then knelt. Zasha was beside him in an instant, sitting down, his tail wagging fast. Stern exchanged the single rune collar for the triple rune collar.

Stern smiled. “We’ll rune you later, buddy. Go home. I have to find out who my new friend is. I’ll bring you back for dinner, okay?”

Zasha licked his face, making Stern splutter as Zasha melted into the floor.

“Pawly’s teaching him,” Trish snickered.

Standing up, Stern rubbed his face dry. “Yeah, maybe...” Taking a deep breath, Stern glanced at Pawly, then focused on his new summons. Both of his hands were used to summon the new friend, his fingers flexing through a pattern together.

A hawk was suddenly on the counter. Tilting its head one way, then the other, it looked over the room before giving a soft, warbling cry. Without warning, its head jerked back and it stared up at Pawly. Pawly just stared down at it with curiosity.

“Easy, you two. We’re all friends,” Stern said softly.

“Remember to choose its element first,” Cyra said.

“Right... we have wind and earth right now...” Stern murmured. “Hmm... dark, fire, water, and light have not been used yet.”

“Light,” Nicole suggested.

“Why not?” Stern agreed. “Would you be good with being tied to the light element? I also need a name for you.”

“A light-infused hawk...” Cammie said slowly.

The hawk looked back at Stern, meeting his eyes before crying out gently.

“That sounded like a name,” Jon said.

“Calius,” Stern nodded. “You wish to be Calius?”

The hawk bobbed in place.

“Okay, Calius. Male?”

The hawk bobbed again.

“And you’re good with light?”

Calius gave a third bob of his head.

“Okay,” Stern said, his hands going through the motions to infuse Calius with light.

A moment later, Calius flashed brightly. When the light faded, Calius was still where he’d been, but his coloration was pure white, and his talons glowed gently. The hawk flapped his wings, showing an almost four-foot wingspan to go with his almost two-foot body.

“He’s beautiful...” Nicole whispered.

“Let’s see what perks you have,” Stern smiled fondly at the white hawk. His hands moved through the motions, giving Calius the first perk, which had been a size increase every other time.

Calius gave a soft cry and ruffled his wings again.

“Huh... not size?” Trish murmured.

“He can remove poisons on touch,” Stern said slowly. “The healing aspect of light.” His hands went through the next motion. “The second one removes diseases on touch.”

“Very healing-based,” Cyra murmured with a smile.

Stern finished with the third upgrade, then snorted. “And now, he can remove all abnormal statuses.”

“Lethargy, confusion, and the like?” Jon asked.

“Exactly like those,” Stern murmured, eager to find out what the hawk’s last perk would be. When the knowledge filled his brain, he started to laugh. “Last one lets him rake a target with his talons and deliver every effect he’s absorbed in the last hour.”

“That might be overpowered in later dungeons when monsters and bosses use different status effects,” Trish said with awe.

“You’re a healer who can give back what he cures,” Stern said, reaching out to gently stroke Calius’ head.

Calius trilled happily, rocking his body in place.

Pawly landed on the counter without warning and began grooming Calius’ tail. The hawk ignored it, enjoying the petting.

“At least they get along,” Cammie grinned. “I was a bit worried.”

“You weren’t alone there,” Jon admitted.

“Did you want to spend the rest of your points?” Ria smiled.

“Oh, right. I need collars for them both, please,” Stern said. “Is there a way to get a defensive collar for Calius? I want to mitigate his new weakness against dark. He won’t be offense, but defense.”

“Admirable,” Ria beamed, “and yes.”

Two items appeared on the counter. One was a collar for Pawly in pink, and the other was a small band that would fit around Calius’ ankle.

“It will take three runes, even though it looks tiny,” Ria reassured them.

“With that, we have enough for one lesser and two least runes,” Stern said. “Do you mind if I get runes to try filling out their collars?”

“Please do,” Nicole said.

“My sword is full already,” Jon said. “I’d say it’d be for the best.”

The others agreed, too, which let Stern feel better about spending all the points.

“A lesser dark, a least dark, and a least air,” Stern said. “With the runes we already have, that’ll leave us only one rune short of filling them all out.”

The runes appeared on the counter. “That leaves you with sixty-seven points,” Ria told him.

“Chocolate squares, please, which should give all of us one or more,” Stern said.

“Very well,” Ria smiled as eleven chocolates appeared. “These are slightly better chocolates than the ones you’ve purchased before. You have one point left.”

Stern picked up a chocolate and held it out to Ria. “Thank you.”

Ria blinked, then took it. “Of course. Did you wish to spend your last point?” She ate the chocolate as soon as she finished asking.

Stern didn’t answer first— he handed the rest of the chocolates out, giving each woman two while he and Jon got one. When he turned back to Ria, who’d finished eating hers, he shook his head. “That’s it. Thanks again, Ria.”

“I’m always glad to help you, Stern,” she replied with a bright smile before fading away.

“We have shards to turn in, and Travis’, as well,” Trish said. “Let’s go tell his crew they don’t have to fight to get the last one picked up.”

“Let’s,” Stern agreed. He looked back at Calius. “Want to come with us?”

Calius gave a trill, then turned his back on Stern.

“Ah, okay. Go home.”

Calius flashed into light, gone an instant later.

Stern summoned Zasha back, patting the hound when he appeared. Zasha grinned as he accepted the petting.

“You’ll meet Calius later, buddy. He wanted to let you come back out.”

Zasha barked.

“Yeah, we have things to do. Come on.”

As a crew, they left the dungeon, ready to turn in shards and help another crew breathe easier.

~*~*~

The captain greeted them when they came out of the dungeon. He thanked them for being understanding, and let them get on with what was left of their day. It was early evening by the time they made it to the Walkers’ hall.

The guildhall was full of people talking, but the conversations faded when Stern and his crew walked in. Stern looked around and found the five people standing at the Rescue Squad receptionist’s desk.

“Cryptid Legends?” Stern called out, since the room was quieter his voice carried. When they all turned to face him, Stern held up a shard. “We have him.”

One of the five sprinted across the room to Stern, her white wings rustling as she did. “Travis?!”

Stern handed over the shard. “Our helper in the shop said he’d just fractured. We had the points, and I liked him.”

“Thank you!” the angelic woman said, hugging Stern before she hurried back to her group, who were thanking the receptionist.

Soon, the five crew members were heading for the exit. As they passed Stern’s crew, they thanked them, hugging or shaking hands.

“Friends of yours?” someone asked.

“We met Travis and his crew today on the way to the dungeon,” Stern replied. “He was a nice guy. Besides, we pull shards. It’s what my crew does. Excuse me, I have a quest for the other two shards we pulled out.”

Bridget, the Rescue Squad receptionist, was smiling brightly when they reached her. “Three shards in total?”

“Yes. We have the two we agreed to,” Stern said. “Add the reward, plus the reward for turning them into the temple, onto our accounts please.”

“Gladly, Walker,” Bridget replied. “If only more crews would pull even a single shard each run.”

“That would be lovely,” Stern said softly. “Everyone in my crew will register for a dungeon run for Rescue Squad.”

The other five with him nodded their approval behind him.

“Excellent!” Bridget smiled. “I need to verify the shards, and then I can send you on your way.”

“Hey, Tom,” Peter, the Walkers’ hall receptionist, called out to the bartender, “a round for everyone on me. Actually, make it two, since two souls will be reborn.”

“Got it,” Tom nodded. “Single file, please,” he told the room.

“Show offs,” someone muttered, their voice carrying in the still silent room.

Stern handed the shards to Bridget before turning around to face the crowd. “Maybe we are, but that’s just because I truly believe in pulling people out. No one is saying you have to or need to, but if you pulled even a single shard out during one run, it would be so much better for all of us.”

“Verified, Stern,” Bridget said a moment later. “Deliver these to the temple.”

“Yes, ma’am. Thank you.”

“No, Walker Stern,” Bridget said, standing up to bow, “thank you.”

Stern took the shards and led his crew out of the guildhall. The moment they stepped outside, conversation sprang up behind them.

~*~*~

When they got to the temple, a golden body was already on the main temple altar. Travis’ crew was speaking softly to one of the acolytes near it.

The slabs were empty of everyone but two people being healed for minor injuries.

An acolyte who was not helping another hurried over to them. “How can I help you?”

“We have shards to turn in,” Stern said, holding them out. “Mary Lizwre is her name.”

“Oh, it’s been years... We’ll get her started once the current rebirth is done.”

“We’ll come back to see her when she’s reborn,” Stern said, feeling the quest finish as soon as he handed off the shards.

“They’re here,” the angelic woman from Travis’ crew said, hurrying over to them. She hugged each of them, thanking them again.

“We liked him. He’s a good leader,” Stern said.

“Will you come to see him tomorrow?”

Stern grimaced. “We have a family dinner for about this time.” He looked at the others, then back at the angelic. “I’ll come to see him briefly. The others can go to the dinner ahead of me.”

“Thank you,” she sniffled, hugging him again.

“What happened?” Trish asked.

“A trap. He didn’t see it in time,” the woman replied. “He shoved me out of the way.”

“He loves Carla,” another of their crew said softly, coming toward them with the other behind him.

Carla, the angelic, blushed deeply. “He would’ve saved any of you.”

“We know,” the guy said, patting her shoulder, “but we all know he loves you, so stop trying to hide it, already. We expect to see you welcoming him back with all that love.”

“I’ll see you all tomorrow,” Stern said. “We’re going to get cleaned up and have dinner. I’m glad we could help.”

“We were asking for them to increase his retrieval and upping the price…” Carla said, then started fumbling at her pouch.

Stern touched her hand. “Stop. We did it for friends, not for payment. We’ll see you tomorrow.”

“Damn, you guys are unique,” the guy said, shaking Stern’s hand. “Talk about a role model.”

“We just do what we think is right,” Stern shrugged.

Another round of goodbyes had Stern and his crew heading back to get clean, have dinner, and relax for the night.

Chapter Forty-one

Stern brushed at his suit— he still hated it, even if Cyra, Trish, and Cammie thought he looked good in it. They’d spent the morning getting their gear in order again, then that afternoon restocking Cammie’s trap supplies. A note had shown up for Jon from his sister, agreeing to meet them for dinner. Dressed and ready to go, Stern left the bedroom ahead of his lovers.

Jon and Nicole sat on the sofa, talking softly, but cut off when Stern came into the room. “Nervous?” Stern asked.

“Yes. This will either be a good thing or a disaster,” Jon snorted. “There’s no middle road here.”

“True,” Stern agreed. “Either way, we’ll be there for you. The carriage to take you all to dinner will be here shortly. I’m off to the temple to see Travis. I won’t stay long, so I’ll be there as quickly as I can.”

“We understand,” Nicole said. “We’d all like to have been there, but we also don’t want to leave his sister waiting for us.”

“Which is why we’re splitting up,” Trish said, coming out of the bedroom.

Looking over his shoulder, Stern smiled. All three women were wearing dresses that were demure, yet accentuated their own figures.

“Glad you like them,” Trish smirked as she paused to stand beside Cyra and Cammie.

“You’re all gorgeous,” Stern said honestly.

“All of them,” Jon murmured, his eyes on Nicole only.

Nicole giggled. “I was so terrified last night.”

“Your perk lies,” Jon said simply. “You’re perfect in my eyes.”

Nicole’s blush was visible as it crept down her neck.

“I wonder if the perk you get to help with it will be like Stern’s?” Cyra mused aloud.

“Oh, you mean where she can select who fears her?” Cammie asked.

“That would be amazing, and better than just turning it off,” Trish nodded. “If you have to wish, might as well wish for the sky.”

“If I’m going to do that, I’d like one that also lets me tan, too,” Nicole whispered.

“Never hurts to hope,” Stern said. “Are we ready?”

When everyone said they were, Stern paused to pet Zasha and Pawly, who were staying at the inn. He promised to bring them a treat before he left the suite. The two animals looked at each other, yawned, then settled in for a nap in perfect synch.

~*~*~

Stern asked the driver to wait as he got out of the hansom cab. He was inside the temple a minute later, and just in time. The sisters were singing as the golden figure and heart combined; Stern’s steps slowed as he let the wonder of that beautiful tone resonate inside his soul.

A moment later, Travis was being helped down by the sisters. Then, Carla was there, hugging him tightly and covering his face with a flurry of kisses. Travis was shocked, but held her back just as tightly.

Stern started walking forward again, but slowly to let the others welcome Travis back first. Carla was still clinging to him as Travis thanked his crew for bringing him back out. “How long was I fractured for?”

“Less than an hour before we started the rebirth,” Carla sniffled. “Pawsitively Irregular pulled your last shard for us.”

“They did?”

“We liked talking with you,” Stern shrugged, having gotten closer.

Everyone turned to face him, but it was Carla who spoke first, “Thank you...” she sniffled.

“Like we said, we were glad to help.”

“How did you know?” Travis asked.

“Our shopkeeper told me someone had just fractured and that a single shard remained. Then, she told me your name, so we grabbed you.”

“Without a quest for it?” Travis half-asked, a little shocked.

“As I said, we enjoyed talking with you. We were happy to help, especially when we saw your crew at the Rescue Squad desk trying to get someone to go in for you.”

“They’re a good crew,” Travis said, smiling at his team.

“We have a good leader,” one of them said. “Now go get cleaned up and spend time with her.”

Carla turned red, and Travis glanced at the angelic woman still in his arms. “Yeah... I should stop waffling. I’m sorry, Carla. Would you like to have dinner together tonight?”

“Yes.”

Stern smiled. “I was glad to make it in time. Travis, we’ll see you around. I have a family dinner to get to.”

Travis disengaged from Carla long enough to shake Stern’s hand. “Thanks again. I’ll see about pulling shards out more often now. A little rebirth helps clarify how important it might be.”

Stern nodded. “Enjoy tonight. Worry about everything else tomorrow.” With another goodbye, Stern walked away.

Travis watched him go before looking at his own crew. “Meeting tomorrow, during gear checks.”

“We’ve already agreed,” the others said.

“Good, but still a meeting,” Travis chuckled.

~*~*~

Stern got out of the cab just before another rolled up to the restaurant. Stern paused by the door as a single woman got out of the second. His lips twitched when he saw her. She hesitated upon seeing him, then gave him a polite smile as she approached.

“Thank you, sir.”

“You’re welcome, Miss Benderson.”

That got the woman in the black evening dress to jerk slightly. “Do I know you?”

“Not yet,” Stern chuckled. “I’m Stern, the leader of your brother’s crew. I was delayed from arriving with the others. Looks like it was a fortuitous delay.”

The younger woman stepped back, eyeing him for a long moment. “Hmm... Interesting. Very well, Mr. Stern. Will you accompany me inside?”

“Just Stern,” Stern said as he offered his arm. “Please?”

A smile touched her lips as she accepted his arm. “Very gallant.”

“My mothers taught me a lot,” Stern said. He turned his attention to the receptionist inside the room. “Miss, the Stern party. We’re the last two.”

“Of course. The others arrived a few minutes ago. One moment, please.”

“I don’t know your name, miss,” Stern apologized to Jon’s sister. “He only called you his sister.”

“Josie. I’m sure you’re also wondering why I don’t have wings.”

“I don’t ask questions like that. I’ll hear about it if you want to tell the story.”

“Very polite,” Josie laughed lightly. “My mother and Jon’s are different. I’m only half-angelic. My mother was human.”

“Ah, a half-sister. He considers you a full sister.”

“Our mothers get along, even if Father has strained things greatly.” She hesitated, then licked her lips. “How is he?”

“Jon is well. He loves Nicole very much.”

“Nicole… I’ve only heard the name from his letters. She’s like you?”

“Irregular? Yes. Miss, it isn’t my place, but they love each other with an intensity that is rarely seen. I hope you can accept them... your brother is terrified that you won’t.”

Josie dabbed at her eyes, turning her head away. “Idiot brother... If I didn’t, I wouldn’t be here.”

“Tonight will be a good night, then,” Stern smiled brightly.

Josie glanced back once she removed the tears. “His crew leader... he said you and the others would be here.”

“My soon-to-be wives,” Stern said simply.

Josie was clearly not prepared for that information, and before she could regain her footing, their server arrived to lead them to the room. Stern guided her along with a smile on his lips, as he was looking forward to the reunion.

Josie’s hands shook on Stern’s elbow and she kept licking her lips, her nerves over seeing Jon evident. Stern pretended not to notice, as he was sure that would cause her to panic more. When the server led them into the room, Stern grinned widely upon seeing the shock on everyone’s face.

“Josie!” Jon said. None of them were seated, having opted to wait for them to show. That let Jon reach them in seconds.

Josie lunged the last few feet, grabbing Jon around the waist and pushing her face into his chest. “Idiot!”

Jon staggered back a step from the impact of the lunge. His arms went around her in a hug, his wings enfolding them both briefly too, before folding back again. “Hey, now. That’s no way to talk to your big brother.”

“Moron...” Josie sniffled into his chest.

“Yeah, maybe,” Jon admitted as tears fell from his eyes, too.

“I was so upset when Father said he disowned you. Mother didn’t want to get involved, but your mom was pissed. She’s moved into the guest house in protest.”

Jon choked back his tears, seeing the moment all too clearly. “She doesn’t need to do that.”

“She does. He’s being mean, idiotic, and bigoted,” Josie cried. “I want my brother back, dammit.”

Nicole hovered nearby, unsure of what to do. She chewed her lip with worry, rocking in place.

“Josie, you should meet Jon’s wife,” Stern said softly. “Nicole, this is Josie. I met her outside when I arrived.”

Josie pulled back from Jon, looking at Nicole. The two women stared for a moment before Josie stepped back from her brother. She wiped at her face, then stepped around Jon, pausing a foot from Nicole.

“Thank you for loving my idiot brother. I miss him terribly, but I know he loves you. Only my father and uncle are stupid morons. The rest of us are ecstatic that he found someone. May I hug you?”

Nicole lunged forward, hugging Josie tightly. She cried long, ugly sobs that rocked her body as she held Jon’s sister. “Thank you…! Thank you…”

More sniffles came from the other women as they watched the scene. Stern even dabbed at his eyes, glad this night was turning out good.

Jon was there a moment later, hugging them both. “Goddess, thank you...” he whispered.

It took a long time before everyone was seated, calm enough to talk. Then, dinner came: a feast made by a truly talented chef. It helped the night seem even brighter, as if the Goddess herself was blessing the event.

Josie explained what had happened after Jon’s father disowned him. She told Nicole repeatedly about how both their mothers hoped to soon have grandchildren, as well. Nicole flushed, but nodded eagerly, explaining why they were waiting.

That led into a long explanation about irregulars and how, sometimes, they had detrimental perks. Josie looked at Stern with horror and sympathy over his empathy, then with just sympathy for Nicole.

When they parted that evening, Josie said she would be in the city until they left— her mother had given her a decent amount of money to make sure she could visit for as long as she wished.

Promising to meet up with her again, they finally parted ways. Stern wasn’t surprised when Jon and Nicole went with Josie for the night; he was sure the siblings wanted to talk even more.

He glanced covertly at his wives, wondering how they would feel tomorrow. He was still surprised that they had no idea that they’d be meeting his parents tomorrow night. When they finally got home, they curled up together in bed. They talked softly, happy for their friends, before finally drifting off into peaceful slumber.

Chapter Forty-two

Stern woke with a smile on his lips. His soon-to-be wives were asleep on either side of him. He still wanted to surprise them, but as he drifted to sleep last night, he’d started to reconsider. All three would be wound up over meeting his parents, but just showing up with them to meet his parents unprepared might arguably be worse. As he pondered the idea again, Cyra shifted against him, her eyes fluttering open.

“Good morning, my love,” Cyra murmured before kissing his chest.

“Good morning, fluffy bunny,” Stern chuckled, tilting her head up to claim a real kiss.

“Yes, it is,” Cammie said, her arm over Stern’s chest tightening. “I want a kiss, too.”

“Make mine three,” Trish said, popping up over Cyra’s shoulder.

They all laughed, then took a moment to kiss each other good morning. When it finished, Stern had finally made up his mind. As they were already getting out of bed, Stern took a seat on the edge of it.

“Ladies, I’ve been keeping secrets. I was going to surprise you, but now I’ve thought you’d rather not be surprised.” When they all turned back to look at him, he shrugged. “Tonight, we’re having dinner with my family.”

The shock was clear on all their faces, and Trish was the first one to gather herself. “Thank you for not springing them on us. We want to be at our very best for them.”

“Will our dresses be enough?” Cammie chewed her lip. “Maybe we need to get better ones?”

“We should get our hair done,” Cyra said, scrambling for clothing. “We need to hurry!”

“Cyra, calm down,” Stern said softly. “My family will love you regardless of your hair or dresses. Trust me.”

“We do,” Trish said gently, closing the distance to him, “but we want to be as perfect as we can for you.”

“Then just be you. You’re all as close to perfect for me as you can be already.”

“If anyone else said that, I’d worry they were feeding me a line,” Trish said before she kissed him gently. “With you, I know you truly believe it.”

“But we want them to know we’re doing our best for you, too,” Cammie said. “We’d hate for them to not like us.”

Pulling Trish onto his knee, he looked at the other two. “Unless they thought you were just using me, they could never hate you. We all know none of you are doing that, so you have nothing to fear. I don’t mean to minimize your anxiety— I’d feel much the same if our roles were flipped, I’m sure. I was thinking of keeping it a secret to avoid this panic.”

Cyra exhaled noisily before taking another deep breath. “Okay... Okay... I’m okay... Wait, does this mean…?”

“That we’re going to get married here in Blackwood,” Stern nodded. “Yes. My mothers told me they would handle everything. I’m not about to gainsay them.”

Cyra went to his side, taking his face in her hands and kissing him passionately. When it finally stopped, Trish claimed his lips, followed by Cammie.

“Thank you,” Cyra said as the others kissed him. “Oh, we have to get new dresses for that, at least!”

“I’m sure my mothers will want to go with you,” Stern said gently. “Pretty sure they’ve been as eager for this day as all of us. They’ve always worried that I’d never find love because of my condition, and yet here we are.”

All three women hemmed him in from the front. They each touched his arms or chest, smiling at him with love.

“Are Jon and Nicole coming?” Trish asked after a moment.

“I told Jon about dinner the other day. I’ll reiterate… and invite Josie. My parents are big on family.”

“With all your siblings, I’d say so,” Trish snorted.

“Fair enough,” Stern laughed. “We should tell Jon and get breakfast. Dinner is the same as last night, just in a much bigger room.”

Cyra, Trish, and Cammie all went to get dressed, chatting about clothing and whether or not they should buy new dresses. Stern watched them for a few moments, smiling at them fondly before he got up to get ready for the day, too.

“We do have one major thing to do today before dinner,” Stern reminded them. “We have a rebirth to attend.”

“We’ll go from there to dinner,” Trish said. “Might see if Jon and Nicole want to get his sister. They could pick her up while the four of us go to the rebirth.”

“We can ask during breakfast,” Stern agreed.

~*~*~

Mary Lizwre’s brother was there for her rebirth, and he’d been shocked to see them in finery. When Stern explained that they were having dinner with his parents afterward, the man smiled sadly. He thanked them for helping his sister right before she’d been reborn.

They stayed with the reunited siblings for a short while before Stern apologized, again citing the dinner. Mary thanked them repeatedly, but agreed that they should go, not wanting to delay them.

Looking at the exterior of the restaurant, Stern’s palms began to sweat. All three of his lovers had calmed down as the day went on. They were dressed the way they’d been the night before, but they’d gotten their hair styled for dinner.

Jon, Nicole, and Josie got out of the second carriage, having come from where Josie had arranged to stay in the city. Nicole and Josie were similarly primped for the dinner.

“Are you sure I should be here?” Josie asked Stern.

“Yes. You’re family to Jon, who’s a friend and a crew member. Unless you’d rather run away?”

Josie’s jaw set. “I do not run from anything.”

“Must run in the family,” Stern chuckled, his nerves fading again. “Okay. I think we’re here before them, but we might not be. Dad has a compulsive habit of being places obscenely early.”

Cammie took one of his arms while Cyra took the other, with Trish taking Cyra’s other arm. Exchanging smiles with them, Stern led the party into the building.

“Reservations for Stern,” Stern announced.

The receptionist’s smile was a little crazed as she bowed. “Yes, of course! Please follow me, sir.”

“Shit...” Stern exhaled. “They’re already here.”

“How do you know?” Jon asked as they followed the receptionist.

“Because normally, they call for the server to come get us,” Stern said. “She’s frazzled and leading us there herself.”

The receptionist’s steps faltered for a second when he said that, but they firmed up again quickly.

Cammie and Cyra’s hands on his arms tightened.

“It’ll be fine,” he said gently. “Just be patient with my mothers.”

Josie walked beside her brother, opposite Nicole. “You never did tell me who his family is, brother.”

Jon chuckled. “It’s a surprise.”

Stern snickered, glancing back at them. “You’re mean to your little sister. Nicely done.”

Jon chuckled, and Josie pouted at the both.

They were taken to the farthest room— it was the only one that could hold all of them. When the receptionist opened the double doors, she stepped aside for them. “Please enjoy.”

The doors opening had everyone already there looking at them as they entered. Fourteen people were split into small groups, chatting. Eight of those people were children, teens, and almost adults. The other six were adults, four of whom were Stern’s parents.

“Father, Mothers, Marysue, Gerald, and my little brothers and sisters,” Stern announced as he led his lovers in and aside so Jon could enter, “it is my pleasure to introduce my fiancées, crew members, and a friend. I’ll start with Josie, Jon’s sister, and a new friend to us. Beside her is her half-brother, Jon, one of my crew and a good friend. His wife, Nicole, who is like me. She has a perk that causes her trouble like my empathy did.”

Those three bowed to the assembled crowd.

“Now, for the women who have given me more love than I deserve,” Stern grinned. “Cyra, our healer, who was the first woman to show me love. Trish, our fierce bulwark and the one who helped me accept multiple loves. Cammie, who started out as a friend, but whose love pierced our hearts.”

“Now for the much longer introductions,” Seamus laughed. “I’m that rapscallion’s father. Call me Seamus, or Dad. My wives,” he touched their shoulders as he spoke, “his birth mother, Stacia.”

Stacia beamed at them, her infernal wings flexing slightly behind her. Red hair spilled in loose waves down her back. She wore a glimmering red dress that was provocative, similar to something Trish would wear.

“Karen, our trap finder and overall hellion,” Seamus went on.

The short, dark-haired woman elbowed him, but smiled at the group. Her dress was something Trish also would’ve been at home in, with the daring side slits it had. She was human, like Seamus.

“Last, but far from least, is Julia. Our magically-special wife who is amazing in all artistic endeavors. She’s also the kindest of our family.”

Julia’s smile was bright. Her pale skin and long black hair almost gave her an irregular appearance, but her skin wasn’t as pale as Stern’s. Her eyes were a bright crystal blue that caught the eye, far from Stern’s nearly colorless ones. Her elven ears declared her heritage for everyone to see. Her light blue dress covered her from neck to ankle, only leaving her arms bare.

“Our two oldest friends, Gerald and Marysue. You might know him better as the Hand of Law,” Seamus chuckled.

Gerald groaned at the nickname, but Marysue giggled, her white wings fluttering as she did.

“And our children, in order of age after Stern,” Seamus went on, “Joseph, Anastacia, Kaylee, Sheryl, William, Odilia, Lilith, and David.”

The eight ranged in looks, but clearly came from their mothers and father. Only Odilia had infernal wings, and only David had the ears and eyes that really spoke to his elven heritage.

“Now that the introductions are done,” Karen smirked. A flash of darkness enveloped her, and she was suddenly behind Stern and his wives. She grabbed Trish, grappling her. “Welcome to the family!”

“Mom!” Stern rebuked her for starting a spar. “Time and place. Spar with her later.”

“He’s right, dear,” Stacia said, her voice husky as she laughed. “You’ll flash them all in that dress. He’d be mortified.”

Karen stopped, stepping back. “Fine.”

Stern turned to face Karen, grabbing her to hug her. “Thank you,” his voice caught as he held her.

“Aww. It’s okay, scamp,” Karen said softly, returning the embrace.

The larger group converged on them to shake hands or hug as they greeted each other. Stern had tears in his eyes the entire time. His brothers and sisters hugged him, telling him how happy they were for him.

“Before we take seats and eat,” Stern said, wiping his face again, “I found a perk so my empathy is selective now.” He looked at his siblings. “I hope this helps.”

All eight of them looked abashed to varying degrees.

“It’s okay. I never blamed any of you. I’m glad to have found the perk. I only have empathy active for my lovers and my summons.”

“Summons?” Seamus asked quickly, a grin wide on his lips. “More than one? Like your old man, huh?”

“Are we talking summons still?” Gerald coughed into his hand.

All of Stern’s mothers laughed and his fiancées blushed.

“He just takes after me. What can I say?” Seamus laughed. “We want to hear all about your time running, but we also want to hear more about our soon to be daughters-in-law. Before that, though, dinner. And son, I already paid, so don’t even try.”

Stern snorted. “Of course you did. I’m not fighting it.”

“And we’re already working on the wedding planning,” Stacia smiled. “Before we get too involved, we wanted to discuss things with the brides. Ladies, tomorrow, if that’s okay? We’d like you to come over so we can go over details.”

“And Cammie,” Karen said, meeting the dwarf’s gaze, “we’ll be getting your mom at least to be here for it.”

Cammie swallowed the lump in her throat, her smile bright. “Thank you...”

“Your family is Darkhand...” Josie said, a little dazed as they took seats. “Dad will have a fucking fit.” Her daze faded and her eyes grew happy. “I can’t wait to tell him who his son knows.”

Jon laughed. “He’ll probably beg to apologize.”

“There’s a story here, obviously,” Gerald said.

“After dinner,” Stern said. “It’s his story. Well, his and Nicole’s.”

Julia’s eyes went to Nicole, then softened. “Did he—?”

“After dinner, please?” Jon asked softly, taking Nicole’s hand. “The short version is that I was disowned.”

Seamus’ eyebrow rose. “I see. Yeah... after dinner might be better.”

Chapter Forty-three

They all made small talk throughout dinner. Stern hadn’t tried to fight it when his mothers took seats beside his lovers— he knew they all wanted to get to know each other. He ended up sitting beside his father and Gerald. Some of the laughter from his soon-to-be wives had him worried; his mothers would smirk at him, having obviously told them a story.

Stern explained more about his encounter with the Bloodcoin family in Bloodstone. Both Seamus and Gerald looked displeased with what had happened when he finished. Gerald spent some time telling them what he’d done to fix things in the lower city.

When dinner finally came to an end, Stern wished his younger brothers and sisters a good night, promising to visit tomorrow. Both Joseph and Anastacia made sure that he understood they wanted to talk to him about becoming a Walker, then left with the rest of the younger Mastersons to the home they were renting.

Everyone still at the restaurant moved around so they could talk easier, even going so far as to ask the staff to leave them alone unless called for. With full cups and time to chat, Jon spoke first, telling his story about being disowned for loving Nicole. Josie added in what had happened afterward when Jon finished, and Nicole picked up the story with how her perk had caused them issues.

“I know your family. They provide quality equipment,” Seamus said. “We’ve— as in the Rescue Squad— had a deal with them for years now.”

“I knew they had a deal with Rescue Squad. Dad has always laughed about how lucrative it’s been and how he beat out the competition for it,” Jon said.

“Might be time to open that contract back up again,” Gerald chuckled darkly. “I know we have loopholes to do that. I wrote it.”

“Wait,” Stern said. “That might hurt Jon’s dad, but it would impact his whole family. His mother, Josie, and her mother.”

“That’s true...” Gerald nodded.

“I would like him to know some of the pain he’s caused me,” Jon said softly, “but not at the expense of those I care for.”

“Brother—” Josie tried to say.

“No. Thank you for coming to see me, Sis, but no. If he wants to be as he is, let him. Tell Mom that I love her. Thank your mom for understanding, too. One day, Nicole and I will settle down. When we do, you’ll always be welcome to visit us. My mom and your mom will be allowed to visit, but not Dad or Uncle.”

“He’s always been the best,” Nicole whispered, raising Jon’s hand to her lips to kiss his knuckles.

“Hmm... fine, but his hatred of irregulars bothers me, for obvious reasons,” Seamus said. “I will be stopping by to speak to him. Business partners of ours cannot discriminate like that. It’ll be his choice where he wants to stand.”

Jon bowed his head. “I can live with that, but no matter what, he disowned me. I won’t take him back. My family is beside me.” He smiled at Nicole, then Josie.

“Good,” Marysue smiled. “That’s as it should be.”

“Speaking of idiots who discriminate,” Stern snorted, “we’ve run into a crew of bigots a few times now. Pure Walkers, is the name of their crew. I’m not sure if it’s Billy or Brandon who leads it, but those two are problems.”

“What have they done?” Karen asked, her eyes narrowing.

Stern took the time to tell them about their multiple run-ins with Billy and Brandon, including the incident with the nephew of the owner of the inn. The mood at the table was hostile once he’d finished.

“We’ll look into it,” Stacia said, her eyes burning. “Threatening a child will not be tolerated.”

“Not at all,” Marysue said, her voice glacial.

Those who didn’t know them leaned back from the angry women.

“We’ll handle it right,” Gerald said, touching Marysue’s shoulder.

“He’s right, dear,” Seamus said, touching Stacia’s cheek. “They’ll pay, but correctly. We have to follow the rules we set up.”

“I’ve been thinking,” Stern said slowly. “When I do stop running, I think I might go down to Blackstone to teach at the academy. Maybe seeing an irregular there would help soften some people’s stances, especially if my crew’s record is well-known.”

“All the souls saved,” Julia beamed at him. “You’ve done amazing.”

“It’s easy when we have money to offset the loss of points,” Stern said seriously. “But I’ve started suggesting that even a single shard at a time would help a lot.”

“Perfect,” Seamus grinned. “You did listen to me.”

“I always listened, even when you made no sense. Do you have any idea how many dadisms I know?”

Karen started laughing. “Dadisms? I love it.”

“Some of them are yours,” Stern said. “It’s just easier to blame them all on him.”

“Fair enough. I did talk with you a lot,” Seamus said softly. “I’m proud of you, Son. So proud.”

Stern had to swallow the sudden lump in his throat, then again when his mothers agreed with how proud they were of him, too. When Marysue and Gerald added on to that, he had to wipe at his face.

“Before we go further, there’s a big secret we’ve been holding back from you and your siblings all your life,” Seamus said. “We told your brothers and sisters, but now, it’s time for you. You know you have no grandparents... That isn’t because they died, but because they were never here.”

Everyone native to the world looked confused.

“The Travelers will be showing up soon,” Seamus went on. “Well, those will be the ones who come for shorter periods, leaving and coming back in intervals.”

Stern nodded slowly— his father had told him that before. The Goddess had even decreed it years ago.

“Well, not all Travelers are short-duration ones like those who are coming. Some of us have been here for years,” Seamus said. “You were too young to remember when Julia and Karen showed up, and you might not remember Gerald and Marysue showing up abruptly, either.”

“I recall us going all the way down and you picking them up to make them a part of…” Stern trailed off as realization hit him. “Travelers…?”

“All six of us,” Seamus said, looking over the group. “None of us are native like you are.”

“Think you just blue-screened them,” Karen said.

Stern shook his head, the first to break the shock. “That’s why we never had grandparents, and you spoke of them infrequently... but how have you been here so long then?”

Seamus sighed as he sat back in his seat. “Well... this is a very long story. All of us, except your mother,” he touched Stacia’s hand, “are from one world. We went to her world first, helped save it from destruction, and then came here with her.”

Stern’s mind raced as he tried to take in this shock.

“The Goddess, as you know her, was basically the Goddess of my old world, too,” Stacia said. “She rewarded all of us by letting us come here to have a new life together. Time here runs at a four-to-one ratio compared to the original worlds, which is why you were so much older when they joined us.” She motioned at Gerald and Marysue.

“Part of us coming here the way we did was to make sure everything’s ready for the Travelers. Some old friends will be coming with the first set of them. We were going to have your brother and sister team up with them,” Karen said.

“But they have to go through the academy,” Stern said, still trying to get his mind wrapped around what he was being told.

“We got them to pass the academy course up north,” Seamus said. “We’ll be going all the way down with them to make sure they’re there when our friends show up.”

“When do you leave?” Trish asked softly, worried that Stern would fall apart if his family vanished.

“We won’t… not unless we can complete the Goddess’ Promise,” Seamus said. “Others get to ask her questions. For us, it’ll mean we go onto another world again. As you know, that’s not going to be soon.”

Stern shuddered as the worry he’d been filled with left in a rush. He hadn’t known how afraid of that idea he was until it was answered. “Thank the Goddess...”

“We do,” Julia said softly. “Our having kids here is only because she allowed it. Most Travelers will never be able to have children. Only those of us who are locked in for years can. One of the things we love about this world is the fact that we got to have our family.”

Stern hiccupped— her love for him was clear even without empathy.

“And we’ll have grandkids long before we go, too,” Karen said softly.

“Yes,” Cyra said firmly. “We will.”

Trish and Cammie looked at Cyra, then laughed and nodded. “Might need to take some time off running for that,” Trish added.

All three of them looked at Stern, and he exhaled slowly. “I… yes… but when?”

“When Nicole can,” Cyra said. “Then, we can all stop for a bit.”

“We’ll help with the grandkids,” Stacia said with a bright smile. “Oh, I can’t wait to hold them!”

“Umm…” Josie said in a whisper. She licked her lips nervously when all eyes focused on her.

“It’s okay,” Julia said gently. “Go ahead.”

“W-would Anastacia and Joseph be okay with me joining them?”

“What?” Jon asked, jerking around to look at her.

“I passed the academy a few months ago. I haven’t done a single run yet, though. I came to find you first. If you’d still been looking for others… I was going to offer, Brother.”

“Family,” Seamus said softly. “Yes. I’m sure Joseph would agree.” His lips were quirked up.

“You saw it, too?” Stacia giggled.

“It was obvious,” Julia giggled.

“What?” Josie asked.

“Okay, maybe not to everyone,” Karen snorted. “He was paying attention to you. My son— yes, he’s mine— kept glancing at you. You can slap him down if you want. And if he ever pushes, just tell me and I’ll slap him down.”

Josie blinked, then flushed. She’d been casting glances back at the powerfully-built young man, and she wondered how she’d failed to see him doing the same to her.

“Family,” Stern laughed. “So, Brother, want to come with me to talk to my siblings tomorrow?”

Jon shook his head, then laughed, nodding. “I should go see what he’s thinking, after all.”

“No!” Josie said, grabbing Jon.

“Older brothers need to vet possible dates for their younger sisters,” Jon laughed.

“I’ll make sure it’s fine,” Stern chuckled. “Besides, I’ll be doing the same to my brother.”

“Siblings,” Stacia sighed. “I do miss my sisters sometimes.”

“We’ll find out how some of them are when our friends show up. I really hope she changed her name from Leggylass,” Seamus snorted. “Wonder if they’ll stay with the same races here?”

“Same races?” Cyra asked.

“Oh,” Seamus snorted, “yeah. When Travelers come here, we can take races other than our native ones. All of us in our original world were human. It’s the only race there. On Stacia’s world, we had a collection. Julia was a cat lykian, and by the time we left, I was an infernal, but had started as a human.”

Stern blinked slowly as he took that in. “Why did you change when you came here, then?”

“We chose what we thought fit us best,” Seamus said. “Marysue wanted to fly, so angelic for her. Gerald is always keeping her safe, so angelic for him, too. Your mom is happy as a demon,” his lips quirked up when he said that. “Karen and I wanted to have children that resembled us as much as possible. Julia... well... she’s always been beautiful and special, and wanted to be something other than human again.”

“If we make it to the Goddess, would she let us become Travelers?” Nicole asked.

“No idea. She might, she might not. She’s… special in her own right,” Seamus said softly. “If you really wanted that above everything else, she likely would. She’s a kind woman.”

“Do you want to leave this world?” Julia asked.

“No,” Nicole said, taking Jon’s hand firmly in hers. “My life is here. I was just curious.”

“It’s late,” Marysue said softly. “We should turn in for the night. Shall we meet at your rental tomorrow?”

“Yeah,” Seamus said. “You’re all invited over. Josie, if you’re thinking of joining Joseph and Anastacia, you should come, too.”

“I will. To make sure he,” she poked Jon, “doesn’t cause trouble.”

Everyone got up, saying their goodbyes with hugs or handshakes. All of them had things to think about, and tomorrow would come soon enough.

When Stern sat with his lovers in their carriage, he asked, “Well?”

The trio of women smiled at him, with Trish being the first to say, “I was worried, but they’re very personable.”

“I’m glad they like us,” Cyra exhaled in relief.

“They love you so much,” Cammie smiled brightly. “Almost as much as we do.”

Stern let go of his fear that they would rethink marrying him. “Thank the Goddess.”

“We do. I’m looking forward to talking with them tomorrow,” Trish smirked. “I want to hear more Stern stories.”

Cammie and Cyra giggled.

“Oh, Goddess…” Stern groaned, but he smiled, their love and happiness filling him with joy.

Chapter Forty-four

Stern wasn’t surprised by the carriages waiting for them when they went to leave the inn. He’d just helped his lovers into one, while Jon and Nicole took the second, which already had Josie in it.

“Mom will probably get excited about planning the wedding. Don’t let her decide things,” Stern said as the carriage rolled down the street.

“Which one?” Trish asked with a lopsided smile.

“Stacia. Mom’s always had strange ideas. Wouldn’t put it past her to try for a naked wedding.”

“We’ll keep her in check,” Cammie said quickly.

“Though, Cyra, if you ask her, she can probably help with any residual trauma. One of her perks is Healing Dreams. She does a shared dream to help reduce the emotional impact of a memory. She helped me when I was younger after the first few times a friend decided my empathy was too much for them.”

“I’ve been doing better, but I’ll talk with her,” Cyra told him. “How have you been handling seeing them all again?”

“It’s been nice,” Stern smiled. “My brothers and sisters seemed to relax when I told them about my empathy perk. I look forward to talking to Ana and Joe.” Another idea hit him and he jerked forward. “Ask Mom to help you, her and Julia. She should be able to dig your earliest memories up. Julia can draw anything she’s seen, so if she goes with you, she can draw your parents.”

Cyra’s jaw dropped, her eyes going wide as the idea slammed into her chest.

“That’s more important than the wedding,” Trish said, hugging Cyra to her side. “We’ll ask for this first.”

“Agreed,” Cammie said. “After that, we can talk about the wedding. With a drawing, it might be even easier to find out more about them, too.”

“Exactly,” Stern said. “Why didn’t I think of it earlier?” He shook his head. “I’m sorry, Cyra. We could’ve gone straight north to see them. If I’d only—”

Cyra lunged across the carriage, slamming into him. Her arms tightened around him as she cried into his chest. “No! Stop it... It’s fine...”

Cammie rubbed Cyra’s back. “She’s right. You’re not a god, Stern. You’re human, or half-human, at least,” she said, trying to make a joke. “People forget things all the time. You remembered. That’s all that matters.”

“Seconded,” Trish said firmly. “Just the chance is amazing by itself. She’d need memories of them, right?”

“Yes, but they can be lost memories. They’d still be in her mind,” Stern said.

Cyra sniffled, hugging him tighter. “Thank you. You saved me, then helped me, and you keep giving me so much.”

“And you give me the same right back,” Stern whispered. He struggled against her emotions, but refused to not feel them. “Your love has kept me going against all the hate. You let that love expand to Trish, and now, to Cammie.”

“We all help each other,” Trish said gently, leaning forward to pat Cyra’s back. “We’ll always be here to help each other.”

Stern kissed the top of Cyra’s head. “Always, our fluffy bunny.”

“Always,” Cammie added, leaning in to kiss a tear-stained cheek.

~*~*~

It took some time for Cyra to calm down, but she was back beside Trish and had cleaned her face by the time the carriage came to a stop. Stacia was on the porch of the rental home, waiting to welcome them to the estate just outside of the city.

“Welcome!” Stacia beamed at them. “Come on in. Karen is out with Seamus at the moment, but Julia is here, so we can start planning.”

“I... umm... I had a request?” Cyra asked hesitantly. “Stern mentioned you could help with memories?”

“Of course,” Stacia nodded sadly. “I’ll be happy to help ease those.”

“Mom, can you help her remember her parents?” Stern asked, cutting in. “With Julia to help.”

Stacia looked from him to Cyra, then smiled wider. “Yes. We’ll do that first. Come on. Julia will be glad to help.”

Jon, Nicole, and Josie came up behind them, curious as to what was going on.

“I’ll take our friends to talk with Joe and Ana,” Stern said.

“They’re in the rear garden, sparring,” Stacia said. “Easiest to just go around the house, honestly.”

“Got it,” Stern said, then put his hand on her arm. “Thanks, Mom.”

Stacia gave him a soft smile. “I’ll always help the people you love. After all, they’ll be my daughters soon. Now go on, and be nice to your siblings.” Stacia took Cyra’s arm gently. “Come with me, dear child. We’ll do that, then help ease your other memories before we touch on wedding planning. Trish, Cammie, would you like to be there to support her?”

Stern motioned to Jon and the others to follow him as he set off around the home. “This way.”

Jon waited until they were walking away before he asked, “What’s going on?”

“Mom’s going to help her remember her parents. That’ll make it easier to find out about them. She’ll probably also help ease any lingering trauma she has about Skippy, too.” Stern stopped suddenly, turning to Nicole. “Nicole… if you ask, she could help you, too.”

Nicole froze in place as the implication hit her— all the pain of her family throwing her out. It was pain she’d carried for years, but Stern was casually saying that his mother could help her with it. “How?”

“A perk. It’s up to you, but she can dull the pain of your past for you, if you want.”

Nicole blinked slowly, then looked at Jon. Jon pulled her into his arms, kissing her cheek and whispering for a moment to her. When he let her go, Nicole exhaled a shuddering breath. “Just... go ask her?”

“Yeah. Head in and ask. She’ll agree, I’m sure of it,” Stern said.

“I’ll go with her,” Jon said.

“I’ll make sure my brother behaves,” Stern said. “See you both in a bit.”

Jon and Nicole turned back to go toward the front of the house.

“She’ll help?” Josie asked softly when the other two were gone.

“Yes. Nicole will feel better after it, too. Let’s go see if Ana and Joe are open to having you join them.”

“What can you tell me about him?” Josie asked, walking beside Stern.

“He’s very stoic. Rarely shows much emotion,” Stern said. “He’s also very big on protecting those he cares for. He’s a bulwark at heart.”

“And Anastacia?”

“A caster, like her mom. She prefers ‘Ana,’ just so you know. You’ll get bonus points for using her preferred name.”

“Ah, like Joe?”

“Joe hates being called Joe,” Stern chuckled. “He prefers Joseph. So, of course, I call him Joe.”

Josie shook her head. “I’m glad my brother was years older than me.”

“He was worried about you, you know,” Stern said gently. “Worried you’d be like your father.”

“He’s an idiot, but I love him anyway,” she laughed lightly. “I don’t blame him. He was worried about losing more family, but he should’ve known better.”

“Fear doesn’t have to be rational.”

“True. I was worried he’d yell at me and tell me to leave him and his wife alone,” Josie admitted. “Thank you. He told me how encouraging you were.”

“He’s a good friend. It was easier to encourage him. If you’d been what he feared, I would’ve helped pick him back up.”

“Will your brother be like you?”

“He’s better in many ways,” Stern murmured. “Just be understanding about his stoicism? He might not be able to vocalize what he feels. Ana’s the opposite— she can always find the right words. If you’re anything like your brother, you’ll be fine just by being you.”

Josie exhaled slowly as they turned the corner of the home, seeing the garden. Joseph, Anastacia, and the others were sparring. They wore the uniforms of the dojos, but were clearly taking a break.

“Who wants to go two out of three?” Stern called out with a grin.

“No one,” Joseph said, standing up. “Your elbows hurt too damned much.”

“True,” Stern grinned. “Joe, Josie here wanted to talk with you and Ana. Why don’t you three talk for a bit, and I’ll take over teaching?”

The others groaned, then groaned louder when Joseph agreed.

“Come on,” Stern laughed. “Time for some family bonding. I won’t even fight you; you’ll fight each other, and I’ll just watch.”

“Doesn’t make it any better,” David, the youngest, replied. “You’ll nitpick everything.”

“Just like Mom,” Stern agreed.

“Let them spar on their own, Brother,” Anastacia said. “We wanted to talk with you.”

Stern saw the hope in the others grow, and he laughed. “Okay, Ana, but only because you asked.”

The collective sigh of relief was clear to Josie. “Are you that hard of an instructor?”

“Mom is, and I’d be just as strict,” Stern said. “That gazebo good for us?” He aimed the question at Joseph.

“Yes. It’ll work.”

The four of them took seats while the others began another round of sparring.

“We didn’t expect you,” Anastacia said to Josie. “You look to be about our age.”

“I passed the academy a few months ago,” Josie said. “I wanted to speak with my brother before I became a Walker. I hear you and Joseph are going to be forming a crew?”

“We are, along with a couple of our parents’ friends,” Joseph said. “Did you want to talk about joining?”

“I did,” Josie smiled. “We can discuss perks and see if I would have a place, if you’d like?”

“Why?” Anastacia asked with curiosity.

Josie took a deep breath before replying, “I wanted to get to know Joseph better. Besides that, my brother has had nothing but praise for yours. I was going to either try to convince my brother to take me with him or find a crew on my own.”

“Blunt and truthful,” Anastacia smiled softly. “Hmm... you might get along with this rockhead. Before we talk perks, though, I wanted to ask Stern about how his runs have been. Also about his soon-to-be wives.” She turned intelligent eyes on Stern. “Well, Brother? Which would you rather cover first?”

“Both at once. I’ll tell you the story of how it’s been,” Stern chuckled. “And Ana, they love me. I know they do.”

Anastacia sighed. “I know. I just worry for you, like I always have.”

Stern reached over the table and patted her hands. “I know, Ana. Thank you.”

Chapter Forty-five

Stern eventually left Josie with his brother and sister. He chatted with his even younger siblings, telling them about the runs and the dangers he hadn’t been prepared for. He brought out all three of his summons so they could not only see Pawly again, but also meet his new friends.

A few of them really liked Zasha, especially when he was bigger. Calius got some attention and trilled for those who showed him affection. Pawly got the most love, though, as they all knew her.

In the end, Stern had the smaller-sized Pawly and Zasha with him when he eventually made it inside the manor. He found a maid to get directed to where his mothers and future wives were and, as he was reaching the door, Jon and Nicole came out of the room.

“How did it go?” Stern asked.

Nicole’s smile was bright. “Good. We have even more to thank you for now.”

“Agreed. She’s already feeling much better,” Jon added with a soft smile. “Seeing the pain that she endured was rough... so much worse than my father’s rejection of us.”

“I’m glad she was able to help,” Stern said, giving Nicole a hug and slapping Jon’s shoulder. “Your sister is outside, in the back. She’s already agreed to run with Joe and Ana— Joe will be their bulwark while the other two are casters. I hope one of dad’s friends is a trap finder.”

“It would be best if one of them is,” Jon nodded. “If not, there’s still a sixth slot open.”

“True,” Stern agreed, then turned to the maid. “Miss, can you escort them to the back garden, please?”

“Of course. Please follow me.”

“We’ll see you tomorrow morning,” Stern told the couple. “I’m sure you want to really talk to my sister and brother, since they’ll be with Josie.”

“I do, indeed,” Jon nodded.

The couple parted with Stern, letting him take a calming breath before he knocked on the door. His mother’s voice told him it was okay to enter, so he walked in.

“Am I interrupting?” Stern asked.

“We were just about to start wedding planning,” Stacia said.

“How did the other parts go?”

“Wonderfully,” Cyra sniffled. “I saw them…” She wiped her eyes, and Cammie and Trish hugged her from either side.

Stern knelt in front of Cyra, holding her, too. “That’s great, love.”

“I have their portraits done,” Julia said from the side of the room where she was drawing. “I’m making copies of them now. This way, we can send them north to help with the search for what happened to them.”

“Thank you, Mom.”

“We want to help,” Stacia said softly. “All three of them are lovely. The love they have for each other is nearly as high as ours. You’ll be just as loved as your father is. That makes me very happy.” Stacia sniffled, blinking happy tears back. “I had hoped for so much, and here you found three wonderful women who will love you as much as you can handle.”

“I’m going to be doing a portrait of the four of you,” Julia added. “It’ll be my gift to you.”

“Is this your second summons?” Stacia asked, finally seeing Zasha.

“Zasha, my mom and my mom.”

Zasha went over to put his head in Stacia’s lap. Pawly jumped up to flop onto the sofa beside her, wiggling for attention.

That gave Cyra time to calm again. “She helped me a lot...” Cyra whispered to Stern, who was still kneeling in front of her. “With my parents and with the trauma... Then, she helped Nicole.”

“I’m glad. How are you feeling?”

“Good. I keep recalling their faces... it makes me happy and sad, but hopeful that it’ll mean we can learn more soon.”

Stern kissed her forehead. “That’s what we hope for.”

The door opened, getting Stern to look over his shoulder at Karen and Seamus entering the room. “Mom, Dad.”

Karen grinned. “I didn’t miss the planning, right?”

“No. We were about to start on that,” Stacia said.

“Oh? Who are you, boy?” Seamus asked, seeing Zasha coming his way. He took a knee to pet the dog.

“Zasha, this is my other mother and my dad,” Stern said. “Dad, this is Zasha, my second summons.”

Pawly leapt over the back of the sofa, rushing to Seamus and rubbing against his leg.

Seamus laughed before petting them both. “You can have two out already? Amazing. I had to get to the steel tier for that. Of course, I had three of them by then, too.”

Stern smirked as he unsummoned Zasha, then let Calius come into being. “And this is Calius. He’s my third summons.”

Karen started laughing. “He’s surpassed you.”

Seamus raised his arm and whistled softly. “Calius, will you come say hello?”

Calius trilled, then launched into the air to fly to Seamus.

“We’d like to hear about your runs,” Karen said as she took the seat Pawly had vacated. “Then, we’ll kick the men out and talk about the wedding.”

“They can take these drawings to send north,” Julia said. “I’ll have enough done for at least six halls.”

“Drawings?” Karen asked.

“My parents,” Cyra said softly. “Stacia helped me, and Julia is drawing them.”

“That’s fantastic!” Seamus grinned. “That’ll help even more. It’s been confusing to separate out who might’ve been your parents. With clear drawings of them, it’ll make it much easier. I’ll get them sent off right away.”

Calius trilled, pushing his head into the side of Seamus’.

“Do all of your pets like him?” Trish asked.

“Seems so,” Stern said, then focused on Pawly’s and Calius’ emotions. “They’re... thankful to him…”

“For you,” Seamus said. “They’re thanking me for you. I have limited empathy. It only works with those I love and can see.” He lifted his eyes to Stern. “I picked it up once we knew you had yours. I wanted to help. I never mentioned it because I knew your siblings had trouble with it.”

Stern’s eyes burned for a moment. His father had been aware of his emotions, and had even deliberately taken a perk to help him understand. “I…”

“Wasn’t sure how you’d feel about it,” Seamus said softly, “so we didn’t tell you. It’s why I didn’t fight you when you went to leave. I knew you were dug in on it. I did the best I could, and then Gerald one-upped me.”

Stern snorted, wiping his eyes. “He didn’t one-up you. Gerald just thinks of law, first. That’s all. Besides, I have your letter now, too.”

Cyra, Cammie, and Trish leaned forward to hug him, as he was still in front of Cyra.

“Want some good news?” Karen asked to help Stern. “We went to the Walkers’ hall and made sure it was clear how irregulars should be treated. As we went to leave, your ‘friends’ showed up.”

Stern started to chuckle. “And?”

“We didn’t have our badges on,” Seamus grinned. “We’d just come down from talking to the guild leader. The four of them were spouting off about irregulars right outside the hall. We might have made a few comments.”

“They didn’t!” Stern’s smile was wide.

“Took a swing at me,” Seamus chuckled. “We left them alive. The guards arrested them for starting a fight.”

“That was a close one,” Karen said. “One of them almost drew on you. I would’ve killed him if he had.”

“Wait, it was just you against all four of them?” Cammie asked.

“Oh, it’s not hard when you have certain perks,” Seamus chuckled. “They couldn’t hurt me even if they’d pulled weapons.”

“Won’t condone them trying. Period,” Karen said.

“Not saying you’d be wrong. Goddess knows we’ve had enough troubles before.”

“Done,” Julia said, setting her stylus down. “Seamus, take these, please.”

“Got it,” Seamus said, scratching Pawly’s chin. “You’ve always been a good girl, Pawly. And it was good to meet you, Calius. I’m curious about Pawly’s color change.”

“I’ll explain while we walk,” Stern said as he hugged his lovers. “Ladies, we’ll be back. I’m fine with whatever you want for the wedding.”

The trio kissed him before they let him go. Stern had to wait as his mothers did the same with his dad. When they were done, the father and son left them to plan.

“Skip the carriage?” Seamus asked.

“Yeah. Calius, go home.”

Calius trilled, then vanished in a small flash of light.

Stern summoned Zasha back. “I was going to tell you their perks, but some are just easier to show.”

“He’s a Tibetan mastiff,” Seamus said, motioning to Zasha.

“From your old world? Like Pawly? You’re the only one who knows what a Maine Coon is.”

“Both of them are.”

Stern started explaining his perks, starting with Pawly’s first upgrades. Seamus laughed when he heard about Pawly’s original perks, calling her a “Displacer Cat.”

“You did the right thing. She would’ve caught other attacks the same way,” Seamus said after Stern told him about the elemental perk.

“That’s what caused her color change. She’s air now,” Stern grinned, as Pawly had been trotting along with them. “Now, let me tell you about her perks and Zasha, who’s earth-based.”

Seamus was nodding along, grinning widely as he listened. He reached up, petting Pawly, when she flew past him. When Stern was done with that, he put them back to normal, but let Pawly keep her flying. He then launched into explaining Calius’ affinity for light and his perks.

“That’s why the name sounded like I should know it,” Seamus said. “‘Caladrius’ was a white bird that was said to heal from myth. That last perk to deliver whatever it absorbed to a foe? That’ll become more amazing as you keep running.”

“We think so, too,” Stern agreed.

“Might make some bosses pushovers if you can just keep removing status ailments,” Seamus snorted.

“I remember you telling me about some of the bosses you’ve fought.”

“If you’d gone with fire, he’d likely have been a phoenix.”

“I’d debated going that route, but light felt better.”

“Trust your gut,” Seamus nodded as they approached the post office.

“I trust Pawly a lot, and Ria some.”

“Ria?”

“The shopkeeper. She’s been good for us.”

Seamus’ lips pursed. “Ria? Hmm... what does she look like?”

“Dark hair, gray eyes... feels like she has a mischievous streak. Got in trouble once for saying more than she should have.”

“Hmm... I wonder...?”

“What?”

“‘Ria’ is a shortened name for Victoria. I knew a Victoria, but I’m not allowed to talk about her. The Goddess forbids it.”

“The Goddess does?” Stern asked with a raised eyebrow.

“Yeah. Trust her,” Seamus said softly. “I have a feeling that your Ria is someone who really does want to help.”

“Okay...” Stern said slowly, his mind working over what Seamus had said.

“Let’s get these sent off,” Seamus said, quickly changing the subject. “Maybe we’ll have answers soon.”

Stern nodded as he trailed his father into the building.

Chapter Forty-six

A few days flew by for the crew— they went over to the manor every day to work on wedding planning and spend time with Stern’s family. They got everything set for the event to be held in a couple of days.

Josie spent a lot of time with Anastacia and Joseph. Seamus even paid for the trio to run the mock dungeon a few times so they had a grasp of how to work together. Dinner the evening afterward had the budding crew discussing how they could improve; Cyra, Trish, and Stern exchanged fond smiles, remembering doing the same together.

Stern triggered his empathy on his family, but he didn’t keep it on— he just wanted to see how his siblings felt around him since he got his perk. All of them were thrilled for him, and none harbored the old wariness they used to have around him, though a couple felt envious of Joseph and Anastacia.

Stern spent extra time with the next trio of eldest, talking with them about dungeons to make sure they’d be ready for the academy in two more years. William, named for Seamus’ father, was a bulwark, having long wanted to be like his father. The problem was with the pair of sisters, Sheryl and Kaylee, who hadn’t enjoyed the idea of being Walkers when Stern had left home. They only planned to go through the lowest three dungeons, as there were perks they wanted and hoped to see early. His talk with them had Kaylee pondering over maybe doing more than just the bottom three.

Odilia, Lilith, and David, the youngest three, spent time with Pawly and Zasha. They were just barely reaching their teens, so they had time before they had to focus on dungeons. Lilith had been born with bulwark perks, and trained with that in mind. David was glad for his sister, since he was clearly slanted toward casting. Odilia, however, was the pacifist of the family— she never wanted to be a Walker. She even disliked the camping trips her family took, because that meant hunting. She would not join the other two youngest in becoming a Walker.

~*~*~

“Tomorrow’s the big day,” Seamus grinned when they showed up at the manor. “Cammie, your mother should be here for dinner tonight. We reserved a table at the same place we met you.”

“She’ll love meeting you, Father,” Cammie smirked.

Seamus shook his head ruefully. “Shouldn’t have said anything about being called that. Ah, well. Come on in. We have gifts before you all get dressed for tonight.”

“What?” Stern asked.

“Our wedding presents to you all,” Seamus grinned.

“What?” Stern reiterated.

“It’ll be dungeon gear,” Karen snickered.

“Mostly,” Stacia smirked.

Stern shook his head. “It’s the ‘mostly’ that worries me.”

His parents laughed.

“I really like your mothers,” Trish laughed.

“Told you you’d get along with them,” Stern said.

“Come inside,” Seamus grinned. “I can’t wait to see your faces. Jon, Nicole, you should come, too. After all, you should know what they’re getting for gear, at least.”

“Is that okay with you?” Jon asked Stern and the others.

“You’re family,” Stern said, nodding.

“It’s better if we all know,” Trish added.

“Very well. Josie, we’ll see you in a bit.”

Josie nodded. “I’ll go spar with Joseph and Ana.”

They followed Stern’s parents inside to one of the larger sitting rooms. Seamus directed his son and his fiancées to an extra-large sofa, then Nicole and Jon to a smaller one to the side. Seamus went to stand in front of them, wearing a knowing smile.

“We’ll start with armor. We love the fact that you took after us and started showing camo around at the lower tiers,” Seamus said. “Trish, you did good work for all of them, but we want to make sure you’re as well protected as we can make you.”

“I’m not going to take offense,” Trish said. “I knew we’d upgrade all of them eventually.”

“I doubt you expect what we have, though,” he snickered.

Stern looked around, noticing that his mothers hadn’t followed them into the room. “Moms are bringing it?”

“They are,” Seamus replied.

“If it took more than one...?” Stern murmured, his mind working through the implications.

“Just wait,” Seamus chuckled.

The door opened a moment later, letting Stacia, Karen, and Julia into the room. Each of them had a large sack over their shoulders. They took spots next to Seamus with wide smiles.

“I’ll go first,” Stacia said. The bag she set down clinked with metal shifting. Untying the top, she let it fall open to reveal the set of armor.

It was mottled in shades of gray the way their older armor had been, but this was clearly full plate. Stacia knelt down to pull the pieces out, showing it to be a full set.

“Prismatic steel,” Seamus said. “Hard to tell with the camo on it, but it is. Had four rune slots, but those are filled with greater runes of fire, earth, water, and air. Good solid resistance base for you. Add in your perks and this armor should last you for a long time.”

Trish stared at it, then at the smiling group before going back to the armor. “I… wow…!”

“You’re their bulwark,” Seamus said softly. “An important job. Keeping you up to manage the mobs gives them a better chance to do their jobs.”

“It’s enchanted, so it’ll fit you,” Stacia said as she started to put the armor away. “We’ll make sure it gets sent over to the inn for you.”

“T-thank you,” Trish stammered.

“My turn,” Julia smiled. “Cyra, we know you couldn’t wear something as heavy as that. Being their healer, you don’t need to be as quick or silent as others are.” Setting her sack down, Julia knelt to untie it. “Which is why we have this for you.”

The bag fell open to reveal what looked like leather armor dyed with the camo pattern they all knew. Julia lifted each piece out— it obviously weighed more than just leather, but it looked like leather when she showed them the back of the chestguard.

“This is a full brigandine set made of shadow panther leather with mythral plates inside,” Julia said. “Chest, bracers, and pants. The joints are reinforced with earth rhino hide, so it can stay flexible and protect you well. Like Trish’s, it had four rune slots, but we filled them with resistance runes. The shadow panther hide gives you a better chance to blend with shadows. Since the metal is mythral, it won’t be as heavy as other sets would be, but will probably still weigh more than your current armor.”

“With much better protection,” Stern said softly.

“Keeping the healer alive is important,” Julia beamed.

“Thank you,” Cyra sniffled, her lips trembling. “I’ll do my very best.”

“You already do,” Cammie said, putting her arm around Cyra’s waist.

“My turn,” Karen chuckled. Her bag thunked onto the ground, but there was no metal sound. “Armor for Cammie and Stern.” Her fingers quickly had the ties undone. “Greater shadow panther leather with thin plates of mythral in the right spots to help with the vitals. Same runes as the others, but greater shadow panther means you can pull shadows to help hide yourselves better.”

The armor was colored the same as the other sets. It looked nearly identical to their current armor, but with much better materials as the base.

“Thank you,” Cammie said.

“Thank you,” Stern echoed.

“Jon, Nicole, we have armor for you, too, just not as high as these,” Seamus said.

The door opened for Gerald and Marysue. The couple brought in two more bags, who set them down and opened them up. Again, the armor was already dyed for them.

“Wind platinum mixed with prismatic iron,” Gerald explained the set he had. “Incidentally, it’s my old armor. I just got a set of starium and thought you’d be fine with this.”

Jon stammered, unable to find the words for a moment. “Your... old set?”

“Yes. You’re running with my godson and are a hybrid bulwark like me,” Gerald chuckled. “The four runes here are greatest runes, so your resistances will be higher.”

Jon again stammered at that news.

“Thank you,” Nicole sniffled. “His safety means the world to me.”

“I know how that is,” Marysue said softly. “For you, I have this set: prismatic drake hide. If you didn’t know, drake hide gives a boost to spell types based on their affinity. For prismatic, it’s all types of magic. It’s also been runed for resistances like theirs.”

Nicole sat there blankly, clearly shocked at what they were giving her.

Jon hugged her to his side. “Thank you, Marysue. It’s wonderful protection, but will also let her shine even more.”

“Now that the armor’s been given out, it’s time for weapons,” Seamus chuckled.

Everyone in the crew except for Stern looked even more shocked. Stern just shook his head. “Going to push everything you wanted to give me onto us now that I’m not resisting, huh?”

“Damned right, we are,” Seamus smirked. “Besides, it’ll help you all for as long as you run. When you stop, I’d bet you’d hand them off to family.”

“Of course,” Stern said.

“Good. Gerald, I need your help with this.”

“I know,” Gerald said as he went with Seamus.

The pair were back in a minute carrying a mace, a sword, two staves, and a couple of crossbows with them.

“Okay, staves first,” Gerald said. “Marysue’s old staff for you, Nicole. It’s starium, so it’s a little heavy, but that’s good if you need to beat something with it. Starium also doubles the size of any spell that covers an area.”

“Old?” Nicole whispered in shock.

“I picked up a blood steel staff recently. It heals me whenever I damage something with it,” Marysue smiled. “That one has two rune slots; spell runes. You can cast a spell into them and use them at any time. We used Stacia’s healing spells to give us reserve healing when we needed it.”

Nicole went blank again, staring at the black staff in her hand.

“Damn, that’s a big one,” Stern grunted. “You sure?”

“With her perks, yes,” Marysue smiled. “Just pass it on later.”

“We will,” Jon said quickly.

“For you, Cyra,” Seamus said softly, putting the gray-streaked white metal staff into her hand. “Stacia’s old bright steel staff. There’s a chance that, any time you cast a healing spell, it won’t use a charge from a perk. We give it a ten percent chance of activating. It also has two runes slots filled with spell runes.”

Cyra’s eyes were wide as she looked at the weapon she’d been handed. “M-meee?”

“Yes, you,” Stacia smiled. “I’ve held onto it for a few years, hoping that Stern would find a healer. Now, it has a new home.”

“Thank you, Mom,” Stern said softly.

“For the bulwark,” Seamus said, giving Cyra a chance to not be the center of attention, “a mace, since we heard you prefer blunt weapons.” The blue-yellow metal glinted in the light of the room. “It has two greater ice runes which get double the effect from the ice gold metal, and a rune of protection.”

“Rune of protection...? The rune that negates a single attack on you per day?” Trish asked slowly, clearly shocked.

“Yup. I used that until recently,” Seamus chuckled. “I prefer ice damage, as it has a chance to slow a mob.”

“Thank you,” Trish said softly as she took the weapon.

“Stern told us that the sword you have there is from your family,” Gerald said to Jon. “Not sure if you’ll want this one or not.”

“I’ll hand my old sword to my sister,” Jon said. “I have a feeling this sword is better than mine.”

“You should. It was mine until I picked up a blood steel saber,” Gerald chuckled. “Healing on damage is just too useful to turn down.”

“Yours?” Jon gasped. “Law’s Verdict?”

Gerald groaned while Marysue clapped happily. “All of my swords get named that.”

“And it fits you,” Marysue smiled.

“This one is earth titanium with five runes slots. Four are filled with greater earth runes, since the bonus from using earth damage was too good to pass up. The fifth is heroism.”

Jon’s jaw hit the floor, and Stern had to agree.

“You’ve used that sword for a few years,” Stern said.

“It’s a good one. Has years left in it,” Gerald nodded. “When you put it down, please give it to Joseph.”

“Yes! Of course!”

“The last two aren’t as historied. In fact, they’re new,” Seamus said. He placed the crossbows in front of Stern and Cammie, one smaller than the other. “Pneumatic crossbows. Hand-sized to make life easier for you, Cammie. I have six magazines for each of them. They both have three rune slots that are filled with greatest runes dark, earth, and ice each.”

“I’ll hand mine off to Joseph,” Stern said. “We want Cyra to keep her staff on hand all the time, or else I’d give my old one to her.”

“Agreed,” Trish said, “but maybe give it to Ana or Josie, instead. Joseph will have a shield in hand all the time.”

“Good point.”

“Now that the weapons and armor are done,” Stacia grinned brightly, “Cammie, Cyra, and Trish, come with me. There are other items for you three.”

Karen snickered. “Stern will find out about those later.”

Stern groaned. “Oh, Goddess.”

Julia giggled. “It’s not as bad as you fear. I made sure of it.”

Exhaling in relief, Stern looked at Julia. “Thank you, Mom.”

“Of course,” Julia smiled. “We have all day before the dinner, but why don’t you take all this back to the inn, Son? When you get back, we’ll be done.”

“Might be for the best,” Stern grumbled.

“I’ll help him,” Jon said.

“In that case,” Stacia giggled, “Nicole, why don’t you come with us?”

Nicole blinked, jerking slightly in surprise. “Me?”

“Why not? You’re close friends with them, aren’t you? Surely you’ve all gone shopping before.”

“Uh... yes?”

“Then it’ll be fine,” Stacia said, going over to take Nicole’s hand. “Come with us, dear.”

“Mom...” Stern said with a hint of warning.

“It’ll be fine,” Julia said. “My word.”

Exhaling again, Stern shook his head. “Fine.”

As the women left, Jon looked at Stern. “It will be fine, right?”

“Julia’s the one who tempers them,” Stern said. “If she promises it will be, it will be.”

“We’ll go with you two,” Seamus chuckled as he helped get things together. “This is a lot of gear, after all.”

“Thanks, Dad. Thank you, Uncle.”

“We’re glad you’re willing to take our help,” Gerald said. “Oh, and the idiots left town the other day. Sentiment to irregulars has been changing.”

“Of course, it has,” Stern snorted. “Darkhand came out, flatly saying to treat us right.”

“We’ve done it before, but we think your clear drive to pull souls had an extra push,” Gerald said.

“I have hope...” Stern said softly.

Chapter Forty-seven

Stern woke to a warm body next to his, but then some hair went up his nose. Jerking away from the offending attack, he sneezed. When he blinked, he found Pawly glaring at him with disgust for having woken her. Zasha shook his head as he sat up, then grinned at Stern.

“Oh... right...” Stern muttered. “Forgot they stayed the night at the manor.”

Zasha jumped out of bed, giving Stern a way off the massive thing.

“Thanks, buddy. Let’s empty out the kibble, shall we?”

Pawly meowed, then began to get up.

“Figures food would be what gets you moving,” Stern snorted as he stretched.

Pawly meowed at him in offense.

“It wasn’t an attack,” Stern laughed. “Just a statement of fact. You love your food.”

Zasha panted with a wide doggy grin.

“Besides, you’ve been getting normal food ever since we’ve formed a crew. The kibble hasn’t been getting used, so we might as well kill it off.”

Pawly got out of bed, padding over toward his bag.

“Hang on, furball,” Stern chuckled.

A minute later, both Pawly and Zasha were chowing down on the old kibble as Stern put on his normal clothing. It would be hours before he left for the wedding, and there was no reason to risk his suit getting dirty yet.

Leaving the door cracked behind him, Stern left the bedroom. “Oh, good morning.”

Jon gave him a nod from the table. “Breakfast.”

“Nicole?”

“Left this morning to go be with the others,” Jon said. “Just you and me until it’s time to put the suits on.”

“At least I have good company, then.”

“I was thinking... when Nicole and I finally stop running, I’m going to do a ceremony for her, too.”

“Because that will be when she won’t have her mask?”

“Yeah. She’ll love being able to be out and seen by everyone without it,” Jon nodded.

“How’s it been?” Stern asked as he took a seat to start eating.

Jon paused between bites. “She’s gorgeous. Her perk lies about her face. The fear is probably real, but she doesn’t have a ghastly visage at all.”

“She’s been smiling a lot more,” Stern said after his first bite.

“Yes,” Jon smiled, clearly thinking of a memory. “That first night was magic. I praise her beauty every night now. I’ve spent hours just kissing her, stroking her cheeks, and gazing at her.”

“Sounds like love to me.”

“Feels like love, too.”

The two fell silent while they ate. Zasha and Pawly came out of the bedroom to beg before Stern finished his meal, so they both got a little more from him.

~*~*~

Exhaling slowly to calm his nerves, Stern rolled his neck.

“It’s only three wives,” Jon grinned.

“Says the man with one.”

“True, but it’s love and we both know it.”

“Never thought I’d have one woman who loved me like they do.”

“Seem to take after your father.”

Stern rolled his eyes. “Spare me.”

Jon laughed as the carriage slowed down.

When it came to a stop, they got out to find the park decorated in blacks and reds. Streamers ran from tree to tree before trailing down by the small stage that’d been set up. To the side of that, dozens of large tables were set for the reception after the ceremony.

Nearly a hundred people milled about the area, chatting. Stern recognized a few of them, and was even surprised upon seeing one of the groups. Near the stage, an acolyte was talking to another group of people that Stern was less surprised to see.

“Come with me,” Stern told Jon. “I know a few groups here.”

Stern went to the acolyte first— she was the same one who’d taken the shards from them and led Travis’ rebirth. “Sister, thank you for officiating the wedding.”

She gave him a bright smile. “It’s my pleasure. I was shocked to be asked. We rarely get to attend joyous events outside of the temple.”

“Might be a trend that starts soon,” Stern replied.

“May the Goddess bless that idea.”

Stern agreed, then turned to the group she’d been speaking to. “Frank, Dad said he sent you to check on me.”

The older Walker chuckled, then shrugged. “A job’s a job. Besides, it turned out to be best that we were there.”

“Not going against that,” Stern said, then bowed to Frank’s crew. “Thank all of you for your help in Bloodstone, as well as getting Urika reborn.”

“Our pleasure,” Frank grinned. “Nice of your dad to invite us for this. We were just about to head back up to run our next dungeon.”

“I’m glad you’re here. You should say hi to Cyra during the reception later.”

“We will.”

“This is Jon, one of my crew. Jon, this is Frank and his crew… err…?”

“Just Reasons,” Frank chuckled.

“You are Just Reasons?” Stern asked with a raised eyebrow.

“We just have reasons for running,” Frank laughed.

“Terrible. I like it,” Stern laughed.

“Considering your crew’s name, ours isn’t as bad,” the female dwarf with Frank chuckled.

“Fair enough. I need to say hi to a few other people, so please excuse me.”

“I see them. Good people. Go on,” Frank said before turning back to the acolyte to continue their previous conversation.

Stern led Jon over to a crew of five, who were clearly in the middle of a discussion. “Excuse me, Mixed Heritage.”

They all turned to look at Stern, but Gustav was the first to speak, “Pup! Advancing fast, and marrying today!”

“He’s not a pup anymore,” Jaq laughed, his triangle teeth flashing in the light of day.

“Indeed, he’s not. He has three women marrying him today,” Suzana smiled, winking at Stern. “Well done.”

“Behave,” Melia, Suzana’s angelic lover, laughed. Her voice was light as she rustled her white wings. “You are advancing quickly, and with so many souls saved.”

“Doing what we can,” Stern said. “This is Jon, one of my crew. He and his wife joined my wives to fill out the crew.”

“You look like a fighting man,” Gustav chuckled, stroking his dwarven beard. “Their bulwark?”

“No, I’m a middle ground: part bulwark, part damage. Trish, one of his wives, is the bulwark,” Jon said. “My wife is our caster specialist.”

“Ah, you always need at least one caster,” Stella, the elf in Gustav’s crew, grinned. “I do hope she isn’t throwing everything into a single element. So many make that mistake.”

“She has fire and ice.”

“Balanced, as you can never have a dungeon where both would be bad,” Stella nodded. “She chose well.”

“Pup… sorry,” Gustav said when Stella slapped the back of his head. “Stern. Heard a rumor that irregulars can tweak the chance of perks. Do you know if that’s true?”

“It is,” Stern nodded. “We’ll be leaving our findings with the Walkers. By myself, the perks would skew, but with Nicole, Jon’s wife, they really skewed.”

“Your wife is an irregular, too?” Stella asked.

“Yes. With the two of them, the perks can get strange in a hurry, but good strange. I have Iron Mind.”

Gustav whistled. “Good perk for later dungeons. Always useful to anyone going to go up the tiers.”

“It’s why the majority of my perks have been summoner-based,” Stern added. “Pawly is up there, by the way.” He pointed at the floating cat.

The crew looked up with surprised eyes.

“She flies now?” Suzana asked breathlessly.

“She’s shifted to air affinity, and yes, she can fly.”

“That’s why her color changed?” Melia asked.

“Yup.”

Zasha woofed at them.

“And this is Zasha. He’s another one of my summons, and he’s earth based.”

All eyes jerked toward the dog.

“Two summons, and both out with elemental affinities?” Jaq asked in shock. “Goddess, your perks really did skew.”

“They really have,” Stern agreed. “Zasha, these are friends.”

Zasha sat down, grinned, then waved a paw at them.

“And as smart as Pawly,” Suzana said with bright eyes. “Stern, we should talk later. I want to hear about all your runs.”

“She’s had a song about how being irregular is good,” Melia giggled. “I think she wants to add to it.”

Stern shifted a little uncomfortably, but nodded. “Okay... If it helps even one other person like me, then it’s worth it.”

“We were shocked when Frank found us and brought us with him,” Gustav said. “He knows you better than I thought he did.”

“He knows my parents, it turns out, and was playing it off,” Stern snorted.

Suzana looked around the park slowly before her eyes grew wide. “Your family?”

“They’ll be here soon. I was doing it without their support to try proving to the world I could, but with my wives beside me, I didn’t feel the need to hold as tightly to that. I don’t need outside approval anymore.”

“What is it, sweety?” Melia asked.

Before Suzana could answer, a couple of carriages came rolling up. Bedecked in black and red, everyone turned to look at them, and Suzana gasped as her theory was proven right.

Seamus was the first one out of a carriage. He looked over the crowd, who began to chatter rapidly when they saw who he was. As the entire family disembarked from the carriages, the crowd grew louder.

A wyvern landed at the edge of the park. Its barding was black and red, but the man on it was wearing gold and silver as he got off the mount and dismissed it. A second later, an angelic woman flew down, her gold and silver dress accenting his suit perfectly. The pair caused even more discussion.

“Excuse me,” Stern said softly. “I need to say hi to my family before my brides show up.”

The entire Mixed Heritage crew gaped at him as Stern walked away with Jon trailing him.

Seamus gave Stern a grin as the pair met in plain view of everyone. Seamus hugged Stern, disdaining the attempted handshake. “If they can’t accept my love for you, they can get bent, Son.”

Stern swallowed the sudden lump in his throat, hugging his father back. The hug then passed to his mother before Karen and Julia got theirs. From there, Stern greeted each of his siblings, then hugged both Gerald and Marysue.

When it was clear who Stern was, the crowd became even more animated. Stacia led Stern to the acolyte, thanking her for officiating the wedding and making sure Stern was ready.

Stern’s hands felt clammy when everyone drifted over toward the stage, as the wedding would be beginning soon. He noticed that the crowd was growing larger and that more tables were being set up.

Just breathe, Stern... just breathe, he told himself. This is what you’ve always wanted. They love you, and you love them. Ignore the crowd. He was managing to calm down when a carriage rolled to a stop across from the stage, down the clear, empty lane. This is it... the start of a new family... He smiled fondly as the door opened.

Chapter Forty-eight

Trish was the first one out of the carriage. Her cream-colored dress was fit for her personality. It stopped just above her knee and clung to her fit figure, lacking arms and shoulders. She wore a few pieces of ruby and sapphire jewelry that complimented her hair and eyes. Her smile was bright as she stepped aside to allow the others out.

Cammie was second, which surprised Stern; he’d expected Cyra. The same cream fabric had been used for Cammie’s dress. This one went to mid-calf, but had small slits up to her knee to allow better movement. Short sleeves helped really make a difference from Trish’s dress. Her blonde hair was done in a braid that draped over one shoulder, dotted with sky blue ribbons that matched her eyes. She also wore a few pieces of pale gold and light blue sapphire jewelry that accented her eyes and hair. She gave Stern a dazzling smile as she moved to the other side of the door.

Cyra was the last one out. She was wearing the same-colored dress as the others, but this was a long, flowing gown. The sleeves went all the way down to her wrists and the skirt trailed to her ankles, a loose flowing gown that swayed as she moved. Her hair was styled up so only her rabbit ears hung down. Emeralds in platinum settings dotted her neck and rings, bringing her green eyes into greater focus.

With all of them out of the carriage, they began to approach Stern, but they did it in single file. After a few steps, Cyra was joined by Seamus who walked beside her, smiling broadly. Karen went to be beside Trish, leaning in to whisper to the redhead. Lastly, Urika, Cammie’s mother, took her side.

Soft conversation picked up as people commented on how beautiful the brides were. Even more chatter started over the fact that two of Darkhand were acting as parents to give away the brides.

When Seamus reached Stern, he spoke clearly, but loud enough that the crowd stopped talking, “You seek to marry this beautiful woman?”

“Yes, sir.”

“Take good care of her. I might not yet be her father, but I will treat her as my daughter.”

Stern took Cyra’s hand, smiling. “She’ll be your daughter soon.”

Seamus nodded, moving aside, letting Karen step forward with Trish.

“I’d ask if you’re ready, but we both know she’ll be the one to lead you,” Karen said.

“I’ll gladly let Trish lead me in all things, be that running or life,” Stern said simply.

“The best men know how to let their wives lead,” Karen chuckled.

Trish winked as she took Stern’s hand, standing beside Cyra.

When Karen moved aside, Urika took the spot with Cammie beside her. “Stern, you have done much for my family. My dearest daughter wishes to join your family. Will you treat her equally to your other soon-to-be wives?”

“We’ll all be equal to each other,” Stern said softly. “I will never willingly hurt them.”

“I know,” Urika smiled as she handed Cammie to Stern.

Stern gave Cammie a smile as she stepped into line with Trish and Cyra. The three of them faced him, standing in profile to the crowd and the priestess.

“Ladies, gentlemen, and children,” the acolyte said, her voice projecting to everyone, “we are gathered here today to see four people brought together in sight of the Goddess. Alistern Masterson, Cammie Urs, Trish Moxxy, and Cyra Walot have faced many trials together in and out of the dungeons. The four of them have asked to be wed as a single family. They also have asked the temple to preside over this union so that the Goddess might bless them with love. Let us all bow our heads for a moment in silent prayer for their wish to be granted.”

Everyone bowed their heads for a few seconds before the priestess spoke again, “Cyra Walot, do you wish to bind your life with the other three before me? To have and hold, to treasure and love, through sickness and health, for as long as you draw breath?”

“I do.”

“Trish Moxxy, do you wish to bind your life with the other three before me? To have and hold, to treasure and love, through sickness and health, for as long as you draw breath?”

“I very much do.”

“Cammie Urs, do you wish to bind your life with the other three before me? To have and hold, to treasure and love, through sickness and health, for as long as you draw breath?”

“With all my heart.”

“Alistern Masterson, do you wish to bind your life with these three lovely brides? To have and hold, to treasure and love, through sickness and health, for as long as you draw breath?”

“To my very soul,” Stern replied.

“May the Goddess bless this union,” the acolyte announced. “You may now face the…!”

She trailed off as a pressure grew over everyone present. The feeling of a mother holding them, unquestioning love and support, and deep friendship seeped into everyone in the park.

“Y... you may now face the world as a unified family, with the Goddess’ blessing,” the acolyte stammered.

Stern stepped forward, kissing each of them lightly before stepping back. “My lovely wives, may I escort you to our table?”

All of them agreed with bright happy smiles.

~*~*~

The feast took over an hour, but no one was in a hurry to finish, as the food was exquisite. In time, the majority had finished eating, which signaled the next part of the wedding.

Seamus stood up, clinking his glass with a spoon until the crowd settled down. “Thank you. Sadly, there is no father of the bride to give the normal speech for any of the three. As such, they’ve asked me to stand in for their fathers. As they’ve married my eldest son, I agreed, since they’re fully my daughters now.”

The crowd buzzed, and Seamus gave them a minute before tapping his glass again.

“Cyra, Cammie, Trish, I’m delighted to call you my daughters. I would never try to take the place of your fathers, but please, try to see me as one now. All Stern’s life, we worried about him finding someone who would love him. Imagine our shock and delight to hear that three of you do. I do find it highly amusing he’s mirrored me to such a degree,” Seamus looked at his trio of wives with a grin, “but he comes by having so much love naturally.”

The three new brides laughed, giving Stern smiles.

“The fact that you are all still committed to being Walkers like we are makes me very proud, but don’t let that define you. If you find that it’s time to settle down and have a family, we will support you fully in that as well. All of us are looking forward to grandchildren.”

Stacia, Karen, and Julia loudly agreed with that, making Stern cover his face as laughter filled the park.

“No matter what you decide, we welcome you into the Masterson family. I couldn’t ask for better daughters-in-law, and I wouldn’t ask for anyone else, anyway. To you four, may your love be as bright as the love I have with my own wives.”

Laughter and raised glasses answered his toast.

Urika stood next, giving the crowd a moment before she started talking, “None of you know me... I’m Urika Urs, mother to Cammie. Let me tell you about the gentleman who married my little girl. Stern befriended her and her brother, Vulk, having them join his crew. He did his best for them, but he wasn’t satisfied with that. When he heard I had been fractured, he went one better and asked for help having me reborn, allowing me to be there for my dear Vulk’s wedding. At the time, he had no intentions of romance with my daughter— he truly just wanted to help his friends. My daughter soon had other ideas, apparently.”

Cammie flushed, looking away as Trish bumped her shoulder, grinning and making the crowd laugh.

“Even with Stern already courting Trish and Cyra, my Cammie threw herself forward. She knew what a good man Stern was, and with what should’ve been insurmountable odds, she tried to gain some of his love. Luckily for her, Trish and Cyra loved her as a friend, and could see maybe more becoming of their relationship. They gave their dear friend her wish, allowing her to court Stern. Thank you both. You are truly amazing.”

Cyra smiled shyly while Trish grinned broadly.

“Stern, I will never worry for my daughter with you. I’ve talked with you and know your heart. You’re a man full of love, even if the world only sees your condition. Your wives will never lack for affection and love, and that makes me happy for them. My family can never hope to match yours in generosity, but if you ever have need of us, we will give you all we have. To the happy family: may their love bloom ever brighter to show us that it doesn’t matter what came before, because everyone can find love in time.”

Glasses raised to the toast.

All three brides rose together, waiting for the crowd. “Normally, there’d be the maid of honor and the best man, but we’re skewing that,” Trish said. “We’ll praise our dear husband, then let him stumble through a speech before we get to the dances.”

A few cheers filled the air for a moment.

“Stern, you rescued me time and again,” Cyra said after a moment. “I will forever love you. No matter what happens, I’ll be beside you to heal your hurts and love you.”

“You gave me my mother back, helped my brother find love, and accepted me,” Cammie said when Cyra had stopped. “I was sure I’d be turned away, but our wives let me have the chance to be here. Then, you not only agreed, but you courted me with dates, showing me that you truly did care for me. No matter what comes up between us, I will always bow my head to you. My heart is filled with love, and I will give that love unconditionally back to you.”

“You helped heal an old hurt for me, husband,” Trish said gently. “A deep pain I was sure would always gnaw at me. You and Cyra gave me hope, then love. Our fluffy bunny is truly a healer, but you are the focal point of all our love. I will guard our family with all I have because I know you will be there to soothe me, love me, and help me. If we do ever settle down, I will work hard for our family so we can have the peaceful life we deserve.”

“To you,” the three said together, raising their glasses to Stern. “Our husband.”

Stern was bright red as he toasted them back. He only stood once they kissed him and sat. Standing at his full height, he refused to hunch anymore. The crowd slowly quieted as he looked over the gathering— there was nearly two hundred people watching him back, most of whom were wearing badges.

“I’m terrible at public speaking,” Stern said to start with. “I’m sure most of you can guess why. I used to hunch when I walked, wearing a cloak pulled tightly over me to avoid as many gazes as possible... but all that changed when I met them.” He looked at his three wives with a soft smile. “Cyra, I never thought when I went in for your shards that we’d be here. Heartache and pain started our relationship, but you showed me your heart in those moments. You are, without a doubt, one of the kindest people I’ve ever known, and that is no small feat considering my family.”

Cyra’s cheeks pinked and she smiled brightly as his family cheered.

“Thank you. You were the first person outside of them to show me kindness and love. We were awkward, foolish at times, and nearly had a few disasters in the early days. But you only ever loved me, and that’s what started to change me. I felt more worthy of that love as time went on. When you and Trish brought up the idea of us all being together, my heart clenched. Was that just your way of slowly phasing me out?”

“Never!” Cyra cried sharply.

“I know that now,” Stern laughed along with the crowd, “but in those early days, I feared the worst. Trish was an ember of love that lit us both aflame.” He turned his gaze to the redhead. “Burning bright with emotion, even if some of it was fear and pain, she never backed down from the mad plan of us all loving each other. Even when old pains hurt her, she didn’t pull away. She opened up, instead, sharing her pain with us. She let us soothe her old hurt and show her new love.”

Cyra hugged Trish, smiling along with the forward woman.

“Trish, thank you for always being you. Brash, even when you feared the worst. That ability to push forward helped drive us to accept what we all wanted.”

Trish winked. “Just wait until later.”

The crowd roared in laughter, and Stern had to pause.

“Cammie,” he started when the crowd grew quiet again, “you were a friend first. I’ll admit that I’ve always found you attractive, and I always thought you’d only be a friend. It was a shock when your first feeling of love touched me. I didn’t know what I did to win your affection... I even tried to deny your growing feelings for a bit. I never wanted to hurt you, and I thought that’s what would happen.”

Cammie nodded understandingly.

“Our wives helped us both see the way forward. And maybe it was awkward, but it worked out, and I cannot think of a day without you beside us now. They agree with me.”

Cyra and Trish nodded along with him.

“So thank you for being understanding and going after your dreams. I feel like we can all learn from that. Ladies... my dear wives... I will always try to be the man you think I am. You all see me as so much better than I see myself. I will do my best to grow into that man for you, for us, and, in time, for our children. Few men have been blessed to find one wife as full of love as you, and all of you have given me that. I will always treasure you. To my wives, they are truly the best part of me.”

The crowd roared, accepting the toast. Stern bent to kiss each of his wives again, letting their love flood his heart.

Character Information

Alistern “Stern” Masterson

Half-Infernal/Half-Human

Badge: Nickel-3

Perks:

Infernal Heritage- Night Vision; darkness doesn’t constrain me. See in the dark.

Fire Resistance; not hot stuff. Fire doesn’t burn you as easily as others.

Empathic Soul; awash in a sea of feelings. Other’s emotions will always be felt by you.

Summoner; never alone in life. Summon an animal friend.

Improved Companion 1; best friends give back. Your summons will improve slightly. Improvement based on the summon.

Improved Companion 2; best friends keep giving back. Your summons will gain something new. Improvement based on the summon.

Improved Companion 3; best friends never stop giving. An additional improvement to your companion. Improvement based on the summon.

Improved Companion 4; best friends are forever generous. Another improvement to your companion. Improvement based on summon.

Elemental Summons; it’s who they are. Choose an element and your summons will embody that element; gaining resistances, acquiring weaknesses, and dealing damage in line with that element. Once an element is chosen, it is permanent.

Second Companion Slot; why just have a single friend? You may now summon a second companion. You may only have one companion active at a time.

Selective Empathy; feeling only what you want is better. Your empathy becomes selective.

Double Summons; why only have one friend beside you? Able to have two summons out at a time.

Third Companion Slot; if two is good, three is better, right? You may now summon a third companion. You may only have one companion active at a time.

Cyra Masterson

Half-Rabbit Lykian/Half-Elf

Badge: Nickel-3

Perks:

Lykian Heritage- Rabbit; did you hear that? Increased hearing.

Elven Heritage- Increased Vision; I see you. The sharp eyes of an elf.

Powerful Kick; kicking ass and taking names. A chance to stun anything kicked.

Life Sense; life surrounds us all. Able to sense the living in a twenty-foot radius.

Minor Life; bandages? We don’t need no stinking bandages. Refresh an ally with life, close minor wounds, and negate the least of poisons. Usable once per day.

Extra Minor Life; you’re a walking healing kit. Minor Life is now usable three times a day.

Self-help; Don’t I count? Able to target yourself with any perk or spell that you use.

Improved Life Sense 1; help others know when life surrounds you. Those in your crew will know where you have felt life.

Improved Life Sense 2; silent life makes for easier hunting. Your Life Sense will no longer be felt by those it touches.

Mirrored Ally; you and you. Target an ally with an ability and copy its effect to a second ally. Usable once per day.

Improved Self-help; you are always a valid choice. Any spell that you choose to use on yourself is doubly effective.

Bulwark’s Ally; stand tall, I got you. Gives the target the ability to negate any one attack on them. Usable once per day, ability only lasts one hour or until used.

Improved Life Sense 3; knowing if things hide ahead can negate an ambush. Your Life Sense can now be targeted to anywhere you can see.

Trish Masterson

Human

Badge: Nickel-3

Perks:

Crafter; good with your hands. You have an innate skill for crafting.

Leatherworking; the dead can be repurposed. You have an innate skill for leatherworking.

Poison Resistance; it’s like water to you. You ignore minor poisons and are resistant to stronger ones.

Protector; saving others is in your blood. Trade places with someone next to you if they would be injured. Useable once per day.

Improved Protector; now, it’s a way of life. Protector is usable three times per day.

Thick Skin; good for ignoring the barbs of life. Your physical skin will become thicker, letting you brush off the least of troubles.

Dark Vision; Low-light? No problem. As long as there is some light, you can see as if a full moon is hanging in the sky.

Iron Skin; that tickled. You become more resistant to injury.

Weighted Blow; smash them hard. Your bludgeoning weapons hit harder.

Armorer; weapons are good, but armor is better. Making armor is easier for you. This stacks with Crafter and Leatherworker.

Reinforced Iron Skin; Minor to you, devastating to others. You can shrug off attacks that would leave others in need of the healers.

Runic Crafter; add the edge Walkers want. You can add a single rune slot to your crafted items.

Distant Protector; I can save you if I can see you. Able to use Protector on anyone you can see.

Cammie Masterson

Dwarf

Badge: Nickel-3

Perks:

Dwarven Heritage- Night Vision; darkness doesn’t constrain me. See in the dark.

Dwarven Heritage- Poison Resistance; it’s like water to you. You ignore minor poisons and are resistant to stronger ones.

Mechanical Destruction; I want to see how it works. Increased ability to disassemble anything with multiple parts.

Locksmith; locked just means time. Locks are easier for you to crack.

Safe Cracker; I can hear the tumblers. With the right tools, you can make difficult locks trivial.

Trap Smith; buying time or saving lives. Making traps is easier for you, if given the right items.

Thick Skin; good for ignoring the barbs of life. Your physical skin will become thicker, letting you brush off the least of troubles.

Rigging; no parts? No problem. Able to rig up traps with suboptimal materials.

Treasure Finder; treasure calls to me. Once a day, you will be directed to any hidden treasure within a hundred feet.

Trapped Bag; I hate carrying bombs. Turn a pouch into a holder of traps. The bag you designate will hold four readied traps. A new bag can be chosen each day, but the traps left inside the old bag vanish.

Long Trapper; have trap, but don’t have to travel. Deploy traps at range. Range depends on trap complexity.

Magical Trapper; the power of friendship. Once a day, work a spell cast by a friend into a trap. Trap only lasts a day.

Duplicate Trap; why not double up? Once a day, when you craft a trap, you can summon a duplicate trap. Duplicate trap has all the effects and drawbacks of the original trap. Does not count toward any other perk restrictions when used.

Jon Benderson

Angelic

Badge: Nickel-3

Perks:

Angelic Heritage- Night Vision; darkness doesn’t constrain me. See in the dark.

Angelic Heritage- Wings of Light; the sky is your domain. You have white feathered wings that you can use to fly, as long as you aren’t overweight.

Angelic Heritage- Cold Resistance; the sky is cold, and so am I. You don’t chill as easily as others.

Bending Tin; metal bending, beginner’s edition. You have an innate skill for smithing.

Crafter; good with your hands. You have an innate skill for crafting.

Fire Resistance; not hot stuff. Fire doesn’t burn you as easily as others.

Greater Fire Resistance; fire is my friend. Able to handle fires that would sear flesh.

Bending Iron; bending metal is natural. Your skill for smithing has improved past non-perked smiths. This stacks with Bending Tin and Crafter.

Bladed Armor Seeker; your armor looks weak. Increased chance to find the gap in armor when using a bladed weapon.

Bladed Armor Breaker; you don’t need that shell. Once an hour, your bladed weapon can break a piece of armor.

Weapon Smith; weapons are a way of life. Making weapons is easier for you. Stacks with Bending Tin, Bending Iron, and Crafter.

Bleeding Cut; better salve that quickly. Your bladed weapons have a chance to cause a bleeding effect.

Runic Crafter; add the edge Walkers want. You can add a single rune slot to your crafted items.

Iron Mind; my mind is my bastion. Your willpower makes it harder for you to be mentally influenced.

Nicole Benderson

Half-Elf/Half-Human

Badge: Nickel-3

Perks:

Elven Heritage- Increased Vision; I see you. The sharp eyes of an elf.

Ghastly Visage; it’s a monster, run! Your face causes fear in all who see it.

Illusion Breaker; that’s not real. Able to see illusion magic for what it is.

Imbue Trap; magic traps is where it’s at. Able to imbue a trap with a spell once per day.

Firebolt; die in a fire. Able to cast Firebolt three times per day.

Improved Firebolt; no, really, just die in a fire. Firebolt can now be cast once every hour.

Greater Firebolt; seriously, just burn to death already. Firebolt can now be cast every minute.

Iceball; frostbite sucks. Able to cast Iceball three times per day.

Improved Iceball; time for a deep chill. Iceball can now be cast once every hour.

Greater Iceball; arctic chill on demand. Iceball can now be cast every minute.

Enlarged Magic; when your magic needs to spread out. A spell of yours can cover a twenty-foot area, once per ten minutes.

Friendly Fire Isn’t; sorry, didn’t mean to hurt you. Allies caught in your area spells take less damage from them.

Friendly Fire Doesn’t Exist; warping spells to your will. Allies in your area spells take no damage from them.

Author’s Note

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A big thank you to my editors, Samantha Katt and Sarinia Phelps. Also props to Geno Ferrarini and Sean Hickinbotham for being my Alpha Readers. I’d be remiss if I didn’t include my beta readers, in no particular order: Ian McAdams ~*~ Dame ~*~ Jay Taylor ~*~ Zee ~*~ Scott Brown ~*~ Kevin Kollman ~*~ Justin Johanson ~*~ Kenneth Darlin ~*~ Rob Bunting  ~*~ Aoife Grimm ~*~ Peter LaFemina ~*~ Tanner Lovelace ~*~  Dimitri Shadow ~*~ Matt Case ~*~ Richard G Stahl ~*~ Cheyene Adams ~*~ A Madsen ~*~ Jeremy Stone.

The cover for Dungeon Walkers 3 is brought to you by Anthony Bishop, a very talented artist. You can find him at https://grimmhelm.artstation.com/

A big thanks to my Patreon supporters who have gone above and beyond in their support:

Jeff Gaebler ~*~ M. Ahles ~*~ Michael Mooney ~*~ Edward P Warmouth ~*~ Exempt Pie ~*~ Robert Yarber ~*~ EvilZetti ~*~ Robert McCoard ~*~ Michael Erwin ~*~ Calidia ~*~ Green ~*~ Thomas Smith ~*~ Otis Coley ~*~ Zachary Johnson ~*~ Dwayne Bullock ~*~ James Domec ~*~ Patrick Glass ~*~ Jeff Kollada ~*~ Scott Baxter ~*~ Matt Sensenig ~*~ Christopher Cales ~*~ Craig Mather ~*~ Brian Biggers ~*~ James Parker ~*~ Jeff Ford ~*~ Tyller James ~*~ Cheyene Adams ~*~ IntheRaccon ~*~ Khamla Khongloth ~*~ No0neSpecial ~*~ Jeremy Patrick ~*~ Stefan Holze ~*~ Gian M ~*~ Tanner Lovelace ~*~ Kurt Bodenstedt ~*~ Stephen Juba ~*~ Rob Abitz ~*~ Daniel Glasson ~*~ MadManLoose ~*~ Kyle Pettay ~*~ Matthew Kelly ~*~ Stephen Caperton ~*~ Robert Shofner ~*~ James Breaux ~*~ Forrest Hansen ~*~ David Hoerner ~*~ Scott Hank ~*~ James Murphy ~*~ Charles Demarest ~*~ Jose Ibarra ~*~ Jon Bryant ~*~ Michael Shearer ~*~ Tyler Scheibe ~*~ MattMick222 ~*~ David Taylor-Fuller ~*~ Kurt Borek ~*~ B Liz ~*~ Council of Nine ~*~ Robert Jacobs ~*~ John Cothrin ~*~ Christopher Gross ~*~ Mike Brown ~*~ Matthew Parikka ~*~ Dedalus Inventor ~*~ Deme A ~*~ Aristo ~*~ Brian O ~*~ Dances with Kobolds ~*~ Gslice100 ~*~ Zifferix ~*~ Charles Henggeler ~*~ Allen Deck ~*~ Christopher B ~*~ Eric Hontz ~*~Riley Dunn ~*~ Michael S Pellman ~*~ David Florish ~*~ Logan Cochrane ~*~ Top Cat 269 ~*~ Mark Kewer ~*~ Cody Creager ~*~ Tetsu-nii ~*~ Orry Mooney ~*~ Lgikito ~*~ Shakekiller ~*~ Christopher Edstrom ~*~ Michael Moneymaker ~*~ Gabe Patton ~*~ Matthew Caro ~*~ Chad Arrington ~*~ Sith ~*~ Red Phoenix ~*~ Gregory Johnson ~*~ Richard Papst ~*~ PantherTheory ~*~ Dwinald Lint III ~*~ Kori Prins ~*~ Jerrod ~*~ Justin “Johnist” Johanson ~*~ Swayer Williams ~*~ Pheonixblue ~*~ Ryan Luttinger ~*~ Joel Wilkinson ~*~ Clinton Wertzbaugher ~*~ Adam ~*~ Kevin McKinney ~*~ Spenser Jefferson ~*~ Sean Fitzpatrick ~*~ Arthur Cuelho ~*~ Joshua McCane ~*~ Chace Corso ~*~ Chief 37 ~*~ Tom Richards ~*~ Michael Jackson ~*~ Masta Matna ~*~ Jose Caudillo ~*~ William Merrick ~*~ Benjamin J Russell ~*~ Abraham Madsen ~*~ Matthew ~*~ Aryan Eimermacher ~*~ Rey T Nufable ~*~ Eli Page ~*~ Barry Dirickson ~*~ J Patrick Walker ~*~ Kevin Harris ~*~ Winston Smith ~*~ Matthew Malkin ~*~ T3iain ~*~ Don Jinkins ~*~ Darkserra ~*~EthanK ~*~ Robert Owen ~*~ Aaron Blue ~*~ Jeremy Cox ~*~ Robse ~*~ Derek Raines ~*~ Malcolm White ~*~ Jacob Lawlor ~*~ Brad Schultz ~*~ Rafnar Caldon ~*~ Caleb Bear ~*~ Travis Hilliard ~*~ Matthias Meilahn ~*~ Pamela J Smith ~*~ David Morrissey ~*~ Lui Adecer ~*~ Choike Nelson ~*~ Damien Osborne ~*~ Terry Wood-Davies ~*~ Oni No Chi ~*~ Thomas Lindsay ~*~ Malcolm Wade ~*~ Kenneth Darlin ~*~ Morgan C Williams ~*~ William Simmons ~*~ Ryan A Larkey ~*~ Thomas Corbin ~*~ Andrew Nevius ~*~ David Peers ~*~ Brendon Quinn ~*~ Michael Browningkoelper ~*~ Erin Jordan ~*~ Influenza ~*~ Tanner Sealock ~*~ Josh Holmes ~*~ Zachariah Miller ~*~ General Raith ~*~ Kevin Kollman ~*~ JakeTylerPSN ~*~ Matthew Myers ~*~ Taefox ~*~ LarrytheEmu ~*~ Eliseo Rios ~*~ Brett Hudson ~*~ Gregory Lamberta.

Other Books written by Daniel Schinhofen:

Binding Words:

Morrigan's Bidding

Life Bonds

Hearthglen

Forged Bonds

Flame of War

Lost Bonds

Noble Solutions

Accorded Nobility

Aether’s Revival:

Aether's Blessing

Aether's Guard

Magi's Path

Aether's Apprentices

Mages of Buldoun

Luck’s Voice:

Suited for Luck

Cashing In

Breaking the Bank

Dangerous Gamble

Dungeon Walkers:

Dungeon Walkers 1

Dungeon Walkers 2

Apocalypse Gates Author’s Cut: (Completed)

Rapture

Valley of Death

Gearing Up

Elven Accord

Downtime and Death

Can of Worms

Unexpected Dev-elopments

One Nation, Under...

Alpha World: (Completed.)

Gamer for Life

Forming the Company

Alpha Company

Playing for Keeps

Fractured Spirit

The Path to Peace

Darkhand

Gamer For Love

Last Horizon: (Completed.)

Last Horizon Omnibus

NPC’s Lives: (Hiatus)

Tales from the Dead Man Inn

Resurrection Quest: (Hiatus)

Greenways Goblins

I would like to point you all toward some fellow authors whose works I enjoy:

William Arand: Author of the complex interconnected series in the genre which all starts with Otherlife Dreams.

https://www.amazon.com/William-D.-Arand/e/B01AY7PSG4

Scottie Futch: Is a prolific author who combines parody with zany humor that keeps me laughing.

https://www.amazon.com/Scottie-Futch/e/B00NCSEN28

Eden Redd: She might be mentioned last, but she is definitely not the least, and she is very worth the read, more so if you like some adult content. Her Lewd Saga series combines erotica and LITRPG.

https://www.amazon.com/Eden-Redd/e/B00I8X8BCK

You can also find out more about LITRPG stories at: https://www.facebook.com/groups/LitRPGGroup/