“‘I don’t want to be a wife.’” He mocked snidely. “You reject me—The future Lord Commander? For that? An old woodsman? And let me say, old!”

  Kasia could practically see the heat of Wojciek’s rage coming off of him like a burning halo around his body.

  “We’re going to see your Ojciec.” Wojciek’s voice was cold as stone.

  Kasia set her jaw, her body shaking with fear and anger, "I didn't say I don't want to be a wife, I said I didn't want to be your wife! And you want to, what? Tattle on me because another man has chosen to court me?! You overstep your authority, Wojciek!"

  “He is a lesser man,” Wojciek waved a hand dismissively, “You deserve better. The best. If your Ojciec knew who you were courting—-a homeless woodsman?” He shook his head, disgusted. “Besides, you should have been back hours ago. Come on.”

  Kasia spluttered, "It's none of your business! It's barely past dark and tomorrow is a rest day! I am not going anywhere with you! The lieutenant general is expecting me, anyway."

  "It's still past curfew. You know the rules. You used to be so good at keeping them.” he crooned, stepping closer, “That woodsman is a terrible influence on you."

  Wojciek suddenly gave her a wicked smile. "You'll spend tomorrow with me."

  The blood drained from Kasia's face. "You can't do that! The Lieutenant General is in charge of initiates, including their punishments!"

  “And you think that I have no authority as the commander of all knights?” he scoffed, “Please, Kasia. You’re going to assist me tomorrow.” Wojciek countered.

  She could run to her Uncle… tattle on him. Like a child. He was overstepping…but… he was also her father’s right hand. If her father or Uncle Nathan had ordered this, she would have obeyed without question.

  “Very well.” she replied tightly. She would need to send word to the stranger- to her stranger, that she would have to cancel their plans tomorrow. Frustration simmered inside her but she worked to keep her voice level, “Where and when do I meet you?”

  “At the main gate. Before breakfast. We’re going to investigate the forest.” Wojciek smiled, pleased with his victory. “We’ll work on your tracking abilities. It’s a very important skill for someone hoping to become a Knight.”

  “For whatever killed the hart?” Kasia was suddenly very interested. She hadn’t heard anything in two weeks, “Do you have any idea what did it?”

  “No, we’re still trying to figure it out. We’ve found occasional tracks, but still need to investigate further. Which is why you’re coming with me.”

  Kasia actually felt eager. This was a chance to do some real hunting work! It was far from a punishment! She almost wanted to thank Wojciek, but then he might get upset that she would like his punishment and not take her. “I–I will see you tomorrow morning, Knight-Captain.”

  “Don’t be late, Katarzyna. And don’t disappoint me.”

  Wojciek marched off leaving Kasia at the gate. She stood there uncomfortably for a moment, then ran to go see her uncle. Ren hadn't specified when in the evening she was supposed to come, so hopefully she wasn't too late.

  She ascended the mountain of stairs that led to his private tower library and knocked on the thick oak door.

  “Come in, Kasia.” Ren’s measured voice came from the other side of the door.

  Kasia let herself in. Ren was sitting in his favorite armchair by the fire, a book open in his lap. "Hello Wujek." She called softly in greeting.

  Ren smiled kindly at her and set his book down. “I was expecting you much sooner. Why are you so late?”

  Ren moved the book out of the way and Kasia curled up on his lap—her favorite reading spot since she was a child, “I’m sorry, Wujek. I… the woodsman who I kissed last week. He took me on a picnic. We got caught in the storm. I apologize if I kept you waiting long.”

  “Oh? Took him to that secret cave of yours? It must be serious.” Ren playfully teased her as he ran his fingers through her hair. A ritual that they’d had since she was born.

  Kasia laughed, "I did. And it's not serious. We just talked and ate. I mean, I really like him, but he's just passing through, so I'm trying to manage my expectations."

  “Hmm… I’m sorry. Though I’m sure that your Ojciec will be glad to hear it.” Ren had always been the most level headed of the three brothers. And the most supportive of Kasia no matter her decisions.

  "Me too." Kasia admitted. "I know it's for the best… but… I haven't felt this way in such a long time. So what did you want to talk to me about?"

  “I wanted to congratulate you on your victory over Harold. Not just as your instructor, but as your Wujek.” He wrapped his arms around her and squeezed tightly. “I’m impressed. And no offense, a little surprised. But overall I was impressed. Excellent battle.”

  Kasia scoffed playfully, "You doubted me? Rude Wujek!" Then her face broke into a smile, "I was as surprised as you were. But I don't think anyone was more surprised than Harold!" She cackled. "Ha! He's been making such a fuss about how weak I am—and then he lost to me! Ohh the irony."

  “Well, you earned it. And I am extremely proud of you, bratanica. Some wine to celebrate?” Ren pulled out an ancient looking bottle from underneath his chair.

  Kasia's mouth formed a perfect 'O' of surprise. She had already had a shot of vodka and half a bottle of wine… but how could she refuse such a generous gift?

  "Thank you, Wujek!" She hopped off his lap and went to one of the cabinets where she knew he had glasses stored and grabbed one for each of them.

  “Don’t tell your Ojciec.” He winked at her.

  "Bah- if Tatu? had seen me today, he'd have taken me to the inn for a pint, himself! But my lips are sealed." She mimed zipping her lips shut.

  She enjoyed the wine with Ren. It was a fantastically aged vintage–not that she had much experience with such things, but the dust on the bottle somehow made it taste better. Richer.

  After, she kissed her Wujek's cheek and bade him goodnight.

  —---------------------------------

  Kasia was tired. The wine had made her sleepy. She didn't bother lighting a candle when she entered her room, knowing the layout by heart.

  She stripped and climbed into bed, shrieking with surprise when she found there was already someone in it!

  "You're back!" Janine chirped happily, her voice thick with sleep. She had apparently fallen asleep while waiting for Kasia. "I take it the time alone went well? Did you kiss?! Did you do more?" Her friend asked hopefully.

  Kasia laughed and snuggled into bed next to Janine. Even though they had their own rooms, sometimes it was nice to sleep next to someone.

  "Yes we kissed. Just kissed. But oh…I've never been kissed like that, Janine. I like him. Like, I really like him."

  "I sense a but coming. What is it this time?"

  Kasia sighed, "He's not staying. Apparently he came to meet the three legendary hunters and then he plans to move on."

  "Oh." Janine's voice filled with sympathy. Her arms wrapped tightly around Kasia. "How long until he leaves?"

  "No idea. A few days? Weeks, maybe? I'm not sure."

  "Well, still. He's attractive, he likes you, and you don't have to worry about him trying to turn you into a housewife– it's perfect, really."

  "It is." Kasia agreed glumly, "and yet, I'm still sad."

  Janine chuckled, "You're only sad because you don't have a choice. If he was staying you would be freaking out and keeping him at arm's length, claiming he's a threat to your future."

  Kasia opened her mouth to retort but found she couldn't. "Fuck. That does sound like me, doesn't it?"

  "I know my friend," Kasia could hear Janine's smile in the dark, "So just enjoy it. Live a little. You get to be romanced and kissed and still keep your dream of being a knight."

  "You're right! Thank you, Janine. I feel much better. By the way, I need you to do me a favor,"

  "Oh?"

  "I made plans with the woodsman tomorrow, but Wojciek caught me out past curfew and is making me help him tomorrow as punishment. Can you and Andrew go to the inn tomorrow and let him know that I'm not ditching him?"

  "What?! He's taking your rest day?! I bet he's just doing that to spend time with you. He's really got it bad for you, Kasia."

  Kasia groaned, "I know. But he's taking me to help him investigate what killed the Hart, so I'm actually kind of excited."

  "Ugh. You would be excited to work on your day off. So what's this woodsman's name?"

  "I…. Still don't know? I actually kind of like it that way. Names are for permanent things and he's not permanent."

  Janine was silent for a while. "Hmmm, well hopefully he answers to "sexy nomad"."

  Kasia laughed. "Thanks, Janine."

  "Always. Hey, can I ask you something?"

  "Sure, what's up?"

  "The reason you don't like Wojciek is because he wants to marry you?"

  Kasia took a moment to figure out how to explain what she was feeling.

  "... It's not because he wants to marry me. It's because, to him, marriage for a woman means staying home and having children. It would be different if he wanted to marry me and be hunters together, traveling the world and killing monsters as a team. I would love that. But he… I don't think he wants to leave Gdansk. He wants to settle down and I don't. Marriage to him feels like being locked in a cage."

  Janine listened, thinking. "And you've told him this?"

  "I've tried…but, no, not exactly. We always fight when the topic comes up. Being his wife seems like it would be a never ending fight."

  "Maybe if you told him what you just told me…he might understand better that you two don't fit. Or that he would need to give up his dream for you to have yours and decide it's not something he wants to do. Then it becomes his idea. The Knight Captain likes a challenge. So take the challenge away. Agree, but make winning unappealing, you know?"

  Kasia considered. Actually, that might work.

  "You're the best."

  "I know." Janine kissed her cheek, "Dobranoc, Kasia."

  "Dobranoc, Janine."

  “Janine!” They woke to hear Andrew calling for his girlfriend.

  "Fuck what time is it?!" Kasia shot up. She saw light in the window. She hoped she wasn't late. She threw on her clothes as fast as possible, shoving Janine out of the way. Her friend only groaned and rolled back over to sleep some more.

  Buckling her sword to her belt on the off chance she'd need it, as well as a water skin, she dashed out of the woman's barracks, nearly trampling Andrew.

  "Janine's in my bed. Don't let her forget to tell the sexy stranger I can't come-" seeing the confused look on Andrew's face she continued, "--Janine will explain! Bye!" And she ran for the front gates, to meet Wojciek.

  “You’re late!” Wojciek chastised her irritably as she ran up to the front gates. “Decided to take time for breakfast?”

  Kasia caught her breath, “No, I overslept. I’m sorry. The lieutenant General had asked to meet with me last night, so I went to go see him after we spoke. I ended up staying up too late talking with him. I apologize for wasting your time, Knight Captain.”

  Wojciek looked at her carefully. He was a hard person, but there was a small softness in his eyes. “Your apology is accepted. I do not wish to make being in my company unpleasant. We will be together all day. I had planned to grab breakfast with you at Sondra’s inn. But now we may not have time.”

  Oh… was that something hunters did together? She supposed so. “Thank you, Knight Captain. If you want, I can run to the cantina and pack us food so we can eat while we travel?”

  “You insult me, Katarzyna.” He said. Though he didn’t sound serious. He pointed over to the wall where a large pack sat. “It’s taken care of. Shall we go?”

  Kasia nodded. There was only one horse. The stables held plenty. Knights didn't rise together, but sometimes initiates might ride with a knight…So, she could handle that. Wojciek grabbed his pack and attached it to the back of the horse’s saddle, then climbed up. He reached down a hand to Kasia.

  She put her hand in his and he pulled her up into the saddle in front of him, wasting no time putting his arms around her to take the reins. Kasia’s back was pressed against his chest and she was acutely aware of every place their bodies touched.

  With a flick of the reins, the horse started forward, the forward momentum causing Kasia to slide back further against Wojciek.

  This had been what Kasia had wanted to do with her stranger. Go hunting and ride together like this, feeling his body against hers. But, instead, she was here with Wojciek.

  “We’re going to where we believe the Great Hart was slain. Hopefully we can find something helpful. Nothing useful was found on the Great Hart.”

  “Really?” Kasia asked in surprise, “Was Lieutenant General Nathan able to tell how it was killed?”

  “Unfortunately not. The corpse was completely mutilated. We know that it wasn’t a bear or wolves. The teeth marks were too large for a wolf or even a bear. We believe that parts of it were eaten. But much of it was destroyed after the creature was killed.” Wojciek seemed to be avoiding doing anything too forward to Kasia, but he didn’t stop his hand from resting on her legs. Or stop himself from bumping into her as the horse trotted towards the woods.

  "Do you think that was deliberate, like by something that could think, or the accident of a mindless creature? No…it couldn't have been mindless- it fucking staged the body. Could it have been a human?" Kasia thought out loud as they rode.

  “I don’t know.” Wojciek said softly. “Either way, we will kill it.”

  His answer surprised Kasia, "Really? The knights would kill a human just for killing a deer?"

  “Of course not. But whoever killed it took my kill.”

  It wasn’t too long before they reached the edge of the woods. “We’re going to leave the horse here. We don’t want to add more tracks to the area.”

  "Was the hart carried or dragged to the village?" Kasia asked as Wojciek climbed down from the horse. He then reached up and lifted her down as easily as if she were a small child.

  “Can you tell me?” He asked simply.

  “Well I’d have to examine the ground for signs–but it’s already been almost two weeks. Those signs will be gone.” Kasia’s brow furrowed. It felt like this was a test and she was failing.

  “There were no grooves from carts. Nor any wide swath of damaged grass or disturbed dirt. What does that tell you?”

  “That it either used a horse to carry the body…but it would have had to have been a draft horse to carry that much weight– and even then, what are the chances that it wasn’t spooked by the blood? I would say that points to a monster. One of the more sentient ones, though, I hate to jump to conclusions. Am I missing something?” Kasia studied Wojciek’s pale green eyes to see if she could guess at his thoughts. They were bright and shrewd with intelligence.

  “A horse, especially one carrying that much weight, would have left deep marks in the dirt.” He said seriously.

  “So a monster really is the only possibility?” Kasia asked him.

  “Either that or your father.” Wojciek joked. Kasia actually laughed at that, relaxing a bit.

  “This way to where it was killed.” He slid his hand into hers and pulled her along into the woods.

  Kasia’s hand jerked, her heart beating faster in panic. This was definitely not something that hunters did with each other. Should she pull away? But he was finally being nice to her. And this was something they had in common: hunting.

  She was actually enjoying herself for the most part. If she pulled away, she’d be stuck with his fury for the rest of the day… so she let him keep her hand in his.

  They came to the spot where the Great Hart had been killed. It was obvious now that they were there. Plants all over were damaged. The grass was drenched in blood. There wasn’t any undisturbed dirt anywhere.

  “Hopefully we can find something that was missed before,” Wojciek was saying, “If it is a monster, it may have moved on already since there haven’t been any other occurrences.”

  Kasia idly touched the red rope cinched around her neck. She had been thinking the same thing. Shyly, she asked, “Why do you think it didn’t kill me? It obviously wanted me to know that it could have…do you think it is something that doesn’t like the taste of human flesh?”

  “Doubtful. Though it is a very interesting question. What reasons could it have for marking you?”

  Kasia continued running her finger on the cord, her eyes far away as she thought. Why mark her? Why let her live? Why did it want her to know that it had seen her? “Fear? It staged the hart’s body in the town square. It wanted it to be found. It must have known that it was a symbol of hope and the creator’s favor for the villagers…to take that and destroy it– to show off its power?

  Kasia continued her train of thought, fingers drumming on her thigh, “It held my life in its…Hands? Claws? Appendages? Whatever– it wanted me to know that whether I lived or died wasn’t in my power anymore. Or maybe it just thought it would be funny. Maybe I’m reading too much meaning into this… it’s not human, why would it think like one?” Kasia sighed, frustrated.

  “There are many creatures that are almost human. Vampires, for example, love to spread fear. Some hunters believe that they feed off of fear as much as they do blood.” Wojciek replied. “You’re pretty insightful.”

  Kasia smiled at the praise. Despite not wanting to give Wojciek encouragement, she was an absolute slut for praise. “Thank you. So what do you think? Or are you reserving judgment until we know more?”

  “I don’t know what the creature is. But you’ve arrived at every conclusion that I have. Perhaps we’ll get lucky and find a tooth or claw or something.”

  This book's true home is on another platform. Check it out there for the real experience.

  —----------------------------------------------------------

  “She’s not coming?” The Stranger was looking at Janine as though she'd just spit in his breakfast.

  Janine looked at him with sympathy, “If it’s any consolation, I can assure you she would much rather be here.” her face brightened, “You should have heard the way she talked about your kiss.” Janine looked at the stranger’s lips, quirking an eyebrow in challenge. Would he deny it? Doubtful. He’d kissed Kasia in front of everyone at the inn.

  “Unfortunately, the Knight Captain caught her sneaking in after curfew.” she studied the man, debating how much to say, “and I imagine he jumped at the opportunity to be able to force Kasia to spend the day alone with him.”

  “Janine!” Andrew hissed, “You shouldn’t speak about the Knight Captain like that.” It was a gentle chastisement, but it was clear Andrew didn't approve of speaking so casually about the Captain with outsiders.

  “Oh, I see.” The man appeared unbothered. “What did she say about our kiss…es?”

  Janine chuckled, “That she had never been kissed that way before. And she loved it. Well, anyway, I did what I came here to do. Andrew, my love, shall we get a room?”

  Andrew ran a hand over Janine’s ass and walked off to pay Sondra for a room for the two of them to enjoy.

  “Well, today will be a day of customer complaints.” Sondra said playfully to the man after giving Janine and Andrew a key to one of the rooms. “I’d suggest getting out of here. It’s about to get haunted.”

  “Understood.” The stranger grinned.

  —-------------------------------------------------

  “So… you beat my brother?” Wojciek tried making small conversation as they looked around.

  Kasia was kneeling on one knee, studying the ground. She didn’t understand what they could hope to find after so long, but, it was still a better punishment than running laps. “Oh, yeah. It was close, though. He’s very skilled.” Kasia replied as diplomatically as she could. Then she chuckled, “He hates me almost as much as you like me. I can’t imagine he would be thrilled to have me for a sister-in-law.”

  “You were so insightful.” Wojciek lightly teased her. “He doesn’t hate you. He hates what you are. A woman in the knights. The daughter of the Lord Commander. It’s hard to believe that you aren’t where you are simply because of who your Ojciec is.”

  Kasia frowned, “Do you think that?”

  "I'm unsure what to think. You did best Harold."

  Kasia felt hurt. Did her actions and abilities not speak for themselves? No one else was being questioned for such things. Harold was the Knight Captain’s brother– no one assumed nepotism got him anywhere. She turned her face away from Wojciek.

  “What do you have against being a mother?” Wojciek asked her. “The greatest role in this world is that of a mother.”

  This was it, what Janine had talked about the previous night. She rose to her feet and looked up at Wojciek, “Tell me… would you give up everything, all of your ambitions and dreams of hunting and becoming Lord Commander if you could be a mother?”

  "It's not my fault that I was born a man and you a woman. We are incapable of bearing children. Tell me: Would you send your chickens to defend the coop or the rooster? Which gives you eggs? Harold can replace you on the battlefield. But not in the home."

  “That’s not what I asked you, Wojciek. Would you sacrifice your own dreams and happiness because everyone told you you should do something else? I’m not against being a mother. I want to be a mother. I think. I’m not sure. But I also want to travel. I want to see the world. I want to hunt. And I can’t do any of those things with a babe in my belly or on my hip. Can’t you understand that?” Was it really such a foreign concept? Happiness?

  "Can't you understand that if every woman was as selfish as you that humanity would die out? The coop would be empty? There would be no eggs for the breakfast table in the morning? Women don't belong in danger. I can, will, keep you safe."

  Kasia’s eyes watered; his words hurt. Why was wanting to be happy selfish? And it wasn’t like she wouldn’t save lives– that’s what hunters did! Protected humanity.

  “You want me to give life to others, but would deny me the chance to live, myself? A man can choose to be a soldier, a farmer, a woodsman, a baker…but a woman can only be a mother? A man can choose not to wed– both of my Wujek’s never married and never fathered children and no one has shamed them for their choices– but if I consider the same path, I am selfish? Do you not hear how hypocritical you’re being?!” Her voice had gone high and shrill with emotion.

  "Kurwa, Katarzyna. You are so desperate to be like others that you fail to see value that is uniquely yours."

  “Uniquely mine?! Nothing is mine! Not my life! Not my future! Not my choices! It all comes down to the circumstances of my birth– that I was born female instead of male! Isn’t that what you’ve been trying to convince me of?” Kasia couldn’t help it, she was screaming at him.

  "Have you found anything?"

  “Of course not!” she snarled at him. She turned away, moving to search father from him. She needed some space before she tried to claw his face off.

  But her heart was still pounding with fury. She whipped around to yell at him some more, "Can't you see how incompatible we are?! How different our values and dreams are?! Choose someone else! Anyone else! You say I'm the most beautiful girl in Gdansk? Why settle for such a small village?! You're going to be the next Lord Commander—You could have your pick of beautiful women from all over the world!"

  Wojciek sighed. “What better union could there be? The Lord Commander and the previous Lord Commander’s daughter. But there’s no talking with you right now. You’re hysterical.”

  Kasia screamed with frustration, scaring the birds from the trees, her fingers were curled into claws, "I will never marry you, Wojciek! Never!"

  A horrible thought hit her then, and her blood turned to ice, "Are you planning to ban women from becoming knights when you become Lord Commander?!"

  “As good as an idea that I think that that is, no. I am not.”

  Kasia was breathing heavily. "Are we done yet? Do you really expect to find anything this long after?"

  “Anything is possible. We’re going to look all day.” He growled at her.

  Kasia snarled in response and chose a spot to search as far as possible from Wojciek, ignoring him.

  To his credit, Wojciek did help search. But Kasia had been right. Everything that was going to be found, had already been discovered.

  “Join me for lunch?” Wojciek asked, pulling out food from the pack and making a spread.

  Kasia bristled. The stubborn, angry part of her wanted to refuse. But she hadn't had breakfast and was very hungry. Grumpily, she stalked over and sat across from Wojciek. She picked at the food, not wanting him to see just how hungry she was. She made a point of looking anywhere but his face.

  “Why do you think being a woman is inferior? Do you believe that your Ojciec is greater than your Mamuska?” Wojciek asked quietly while eating some fresh bread.

  Kasia debated ignoring him. But she was bored with the silence. "I don't think women are inferior. I just want to live the life I choose. My best friend is very excited to be a wife and mother, and I am happy for her. I am happy for my siostra who married for love and has a beautiful córka of her own. I never said I did not want these things, I want a choice in wanting them."

  “Should Andrew’s Ojciec have a choice whether he wants to provide for his family? Or your Ojciec?”

  "But they chose to have families—children. I understand that if I become with child, I will lose my freedom. I understand that I will need to give up traveling and hunting. But right now, I am free. I have only myself to take care of." Kasia knew her explanation would fall on deaf ears. It was like they were speaking different languages– similar enough that they thought they were communicating…. But they weren't.

  “That’s all that matters to you. Being free.” Wojciek scoffed.

  "And all that matters to you is power. Appearances. You want to marry me because it would look good for you." Kasia sneered back. "Don't act like your reasons are so much better than mine."

  “You’d have a good life. You’re angry at me for wanting to give you a good life. Defiant girl.”

  "I'm angry at you because you want me to give up my dreams and happiness so you can have yours! All while you accuse me of selfishness! Is that what you dream of, Wojciek? A wife who is miserable and dead inside?"

  “Of course not!”

  "That's what being married to me would be like. That's what marriage to you would do to me. So find someone else." Kasia brushed the crumbs of her lap and got up to begin the fruitless search yet again.

  “You’ve got it all figured out. Don’t you, initiate? Find your own way back, huntress.” Wojciek snarled.

  "Gladly!" Kasia roared as Wojciek packed up to leave.

  At least now she was free. She got off her knees where she had been searching and stalked off through the woods. She remembered the direction they'd used to get here, so as long as she went in that general direction back, she'd find her way.

  Maybe she could even find her way back in time to have dinner with her stranger. Kasia jogged through the forest, her heart growing lighter with every step.

  It took time, but she arrived at the inn in the late afternoon. He probably wouldn't be there. She had canceled on him, after all, but she couldn't help but check. Even if he wasn't there, she would enjoy talking to Sondra about her woes.

  She opened the door, her eyes scanning the spot by the fire where the stranger usually sat.

  The stranger wasn’t there. But she could hear the haunting of the inn. The few Patrons that remained had dour expressions. Kasia chuckled.

  “Kasia! My darling!” Sondra welcomed her enthusiastically. She always welcomed Kasia enthusiastically. It was great.

  Kasia strode forward and embraced Sondra. "Do you have time to listen to me complain?"

  “Of course. I always have time for you.” Sondra gently took Kasia’s hand and they both sat at a table.

  “Really?! There’s more work to do!” Gregosz called out from the kitchen window.

  “There’s always work to do, Gregosz! I’ll do it later, I’ll do it tomorrow. It’ll get done and then the next thing will need attention.” Sondra yelled back before turning her focus back to Kasia, “What is it you want to talk about, sweetheart?”

  The “haunting” continued to resound through the tavern. Were they being louder on purpose?

  “Perhaps a walk?” Sondra suggested.

  "Are you sure?" Kasia glanced uncertainly toward the kitchen window. "I'd be happy to help you with your chores."

  “AHH! OHH!”

  “You can listen to that the whole time?” Sondra smiled cheekily.

  Kasia rolled her eyes, "Please, I live with them. Well, with Janine. But they do that in her room all the time."

  “No, my chores can wait. I’d rather give you all of my attention. What’s wrong?” Sondra put a hand gently on Kasia’s knee.

  "Well, then a walk would be welcome." She got up and Sondra joined her in a walk around the village.

  "It's Wojciek. I told you that he proposed to me last month and how I said no, well, he hasn't given up. I told him I don't want to give up my dream of being a hunter and traveling and he has been lecturing me about a woman's duty and how selfish I am to risk my womb by being a hunter." Kasia rolled her eyes. "And I keep telling him no and 'fuck off ' but he's relentless!

  "And then the jackass had the nerve to tell me how surprised he was that I beat his brother in a fight because apparently everyone- not just Harold- thinks I've only gotten where I am because of who my Ojciec is! And… it feels like no one believes in me, that everyone thinks my dreams are so stupid, and I just feel… alone? Foolish? I don't know…" Kasia hung her head, kicking a pebble in front of her. She watched it bounce, then kicked it again as they walked up to it.

  Sondra stopped and grabbed Kasia. She pulled the girl into a quiet hug and held her tight.

  Kasia returned the embrace, squeezing her back as tightly as she could. She felt her shoulders trembling as a tear slipped down her cheek.

  “Fuck them.” Sondra said into her ear, “ Who cares what they think? You do whatever you want. And you’re never alone. Andrew and Janine follow you like puppies.” Sondra smirked. “And I’ll be here as well. Though, I can understand why Wojciek is being relentless. You’re a beautiful woman, Kasia. You’re going to have to fight men off with sticks and swords.”

  Sondra let out a light laugh. “Maybe even a few women before your days are over. I’m sorry that you feel so much pressure to give up on your hopes and dreams.”

  Sondra's words made her feel better. Kasia imagined it was the sort of thing her mother would have said if she had still been alive.

  "Thank you, Sondra. I really needed to hear that. How do I get Wojciek to leave me alone?"

  “Impale him on a spear?” Sondra replied playfully with a glint in her eyes. “That man is persistent. I’ve never seen him quit at anything.”

  "But it's not even me he wants. He doesn't give a shit about me! He just wants to marry the Lord Commander's daughter!"

  “Well, Imka’s married. So that leaves you. You are the Lord Commander’s daughter. Hmm… I wish that I knew how to help you. He was so determined to steal wine from me as an initiate that I finally pretended not to notice so that he’d go away.”

  Kasia sighed, "I know. It's not like I can change who my Ojciec is. And I wouldn't want to-" she added quickly, "-but sometimes I wish he wasn't the Lord Commander… don't tell anyone I said that. I'm very proud of him. And it's only sometimes."

  “Well, you are the Lord Commander’s daughter. Have him send Wojciek away. Send him hunting on the other side of the world.”

  Kasia shook her head sadly…"Tatu? has chosen Wojciek as his replacement. He needs him close to train him. Still… Tatu? is not going to retire or die any time soon. I could ask…it'd just be for six months to a year… " Kasia considered, "you know what? I will speak with my Ojciec. Thank you, Sondra." Kasia hugged Sondra tightly again.

  “You know,” Sondra purred with a from, “That handsome— oh so very handsome—man was disappointed that you didn’t come today.” Sondra said as they made their way back to the inn.

  Kasia blushed, "I actually came to look for him… Wojciek caught me coming back after curfew and punished me by insisting I go with him to do hunter business. I realize, now, it was probably just revenge because he saw me kissing the woodsman and didn't want me to be able to see him today. I don't suppose you know if he's in, do you?"

  “He comes and goes as he pleases. I’m unsure when he’ll return.”

  Andrew and Janine were flying out the door as they arrived at the inn. Gregosz was yelling at them. “I told you shits to be quiet!”

  Kasia snorted with laughter when she saw them. She hugged Sondra goodbye and joined her friends.

  "You got out of your punishment much earlier than I expected!” Janine chirped happily, “I was sure Wojciek would keep you all day!"

  Kasia smiled sheepishly, "We got into another fight and he told me to get lost."

  Andrew barked a laugh, "No offense, Kasia, but I have no clue why he wants to marry you. You are the most stubborn, headstrong woman I've ever met!"

  Kasia huffed, "Flatterer."

  They walked back to the castle together. Kasia told them she was going to go see her father and not to wait up for her.

  She entered the castle and searched for her father. She found him in the war room, pouring over reports.

  "Tatu?, can I speak to you?"

  “What is it, dziecka?” Her father welcomed her kindly.

  She walked over to him and kissed his cheek before wiggling her way between him and the table to sit on his lap.

  "I… I need Wojciek to stay away from me. I have made it clear to him that I do not desire to marry him, but he has continued to broach the topic every chance he gets. And if it was someone else, it wouldn't be such an issue– but he is someone with authority.

  "Obviously I can't prove that he's using his power to force me into his company. He hasn't technically done anything wrong. But he uses the rules and his rank to pursue me.

  "To punish me for arriving a bit after curfew last night he said I had to assist him with knight business on my rest day. He took me to where the hart was killed and had me search for clues for what killed it. But it's been weeks- so of course I found nothing. And the entire time he pestered me about why I didn't want to be a mother or wife, telling me how selfish I was for trying to be a hunter. The conversation was very personal, and I could not leave because he outranks me.

  "So I am asking you to not let him have any authority over me, or send him away on a hunt until after I've finished my rites."

  She watched her father's face nervously, uncertain of how he'd react.

  Her father was silent for a while, thinking.

  “I… cannot. No other initiate’s father is the Lord Commander. It would be special treatment. And despite the many accusations I have received for giving you such, I never have.” He said quietly, ashamed of his answer. “I’m sorry, dziecka. I have to follow the rules.”

  Kasia's face looked sad. "Can you forbid him from marrying me? As my Ojciec, not as the Lord Commander. That is not special treatment. He might not respect my refusal, but he would respect yours."

  Jon smiled lightly and invited his daughter to come sit next to him. “I could. Probably. But wouldn’t that be akin to me agreeing to his proposal? You already refused him, that should be enough. If I step in, then it looks like I have say in who you marry.”

  "I'll allow it." Kasia folded her arms stubbornly.

  “Oh? You’ll allow it? No my dziecka. You asked for the decision. You get all the responsibility that comes with it. I am more than happy to prohibit you from marrying and keeping you here forever. Especially after finding out about your… kiss.” He laughed to try to lighten the mood.

  "Well, can you think of a better way to deal with this?!” Kasia whined, “I would fight him, but he'd kick my ass. Saying ‘no’ is apparently a challenge to him. He doesn't care if I hate him or not- just that he wins. I don't know what to do Tatu?!"

  “Hmm… I’ve never known Wojciek to quit anything. It’s why I picked him to succeed me. I would have rathered one of your brothers, but neither is interested. You dislike Wojciek this much just because he asked me for your hand? You were always cordial before.”

  Kasia slumped against her father sullenly, disappointed that he would not save her from this.

  "I didn't used to dislike him. But I do now. He doesn't care for me at all- not my dreams or happiness. He was surprised I beat Harold in combat because, and he admitted to this, he thought I was only where I was because of nepotism! He doesn't respect me! He doesn't believe in me!

  "He only wants to marry me because I'm your daughter! It's not me he wants, it's the prestige! The trophy!" Kasia had begun to cry again, "I have never been made to feel like so much meat in my life! How could I not despise him?!"

  Her father wrapped his arm around her. “I have never given you any privilege within the ranks. But we cannot control what other people think. And yet you are privileged above many. I want you to marry for love. I’m sorry to give you such a curse.”

  Kasia just hugged her father and cried. "How soon can I take out my rites? Then I can leave and go where no one knows who my Ojciec is and my actions will be all that matter!"

  “When you’re ready, dziecka.” Her father said softly back. “But you are not ready. None of you are. There is still much for you to learn and practice.”

  "You took your rites out at eighteen. So did Kornosz and Jacek. I'll be nineteen this winter. Am I so far from being ready?"

  “Well, neither is Harold. It’s not about age. It’s about skill and ability. You must stop comparing yourself to others.”

  Kasia cried harder, "I love you, Tatu?. I am proud to be your daughter. So proud. But it is so hard to realize that no one really thinks I can do this…that I'm just playing at being a knight! I… I don't know what to do! It doesn't matter how hard I work- that I am at the top of my class. No one thinks I earned it."

  “I love you too. What matters is what you think about yourself. I did think that you were playing at being a knight when you were a child. I’m a knight, your brothers are knights. Your sister left at an early age for you. I thought that you’d grow out of it. But you haven’t and I am proud of who you are.”

  Kasia sniffled, head still buried in her father's chest. "I was fine when I thought it was just Harold and his friends who thought I was a joke… I believed in myself. I knew I'd show them. But… now every knight I see I wonder if when he looks at me he just sees a child playing dress up. I… I am sad. I feel like the world is not the same one it was yesterday. Yesterday's world was brighter…"

  Jon couldn’t help but chuckle lightly. “Welcome to growing up. The most important lesson that you can learn now, is that tomorrow can be however bright that you want it to be.”

  Kasia didn't know what else to say. So she tucked her legs beneath her and just cuddled on her father's lap while he finished reading his reports.

  She had dinner with her father, then retired to her room. What a shitty day. Damn Wojciek.

  She went to bed cursing him, then stopped. "Tomorrow will be brighter."

  And tomorrow was brighter. For Katarzyna Najberg.

  The night was dark. It was still early, shortly before the moon would rise. There were plenty of villagers about, but the darkness made it easy to slip out and to the forest undetected. Once he was surrounded by the forest he looked for the beast. Looking inside his mind he saw the power of the werewolf and felt the transformation start. His limbs lengthened and his muscles grew in size and mass. Fur sprouted all over his body covering him in a black and gray coat. The sound of bones snapping, popping, and rearranging echoing through his head. His face lengthened, grew, cheeks disappeared, and pointed teeth the length of a pinky finger grew into his large mouth. It was time to hunt.

  The werewolf sniffed the air. Obviously a strong scent of humans in the directions of the village and the castle. Some deer and wolves were within a few miles of him. And the strong scent of a large flock of sheep from near the village. There were a few hunters left patrolling. But since it had been a month since the death of the Great Hart, the villagers had requested less presence. Time to find his next kill.

  The monster quickly made his way to where the forest came nearest the castle and began to watch the patrols. The moon had emerged and bathed the land in light. Making his way around the castle and watching where everyone was he realized how well designed the patrols were. At no time was there someone who did not have eyes on them. That would make things a little difficult. He was hoping to get away with the kill before anyone realized what was happening.

  And then a cloud flew by the moon. Everything was thrown into darkness. The wolf rushed forward, as the nearest patrol passed and silently snatched the knight at the end.

  Before he could be discovered he tore out the Knights' throat. Just enough to prevent him from screaming, but not enough to kill him. Yet.

  He carried his prize and bolted back into the forest. This kill wouldn’t be as interesting. But he needed to lure them out of the castle. He would make them afraid and angry enough to come hunt him. Then he could have his fun. Then they would fight for their lives.

  This one, he would torture. He pinned the unlucky soul against a tree with his left hand and with his right pulled hard on the hunter’s arm. The man flailed against him and the tree but was unable to make any noise with a hole through his windpipe. Finally the werewolf felt and heard the *pop*, the telltale sign that he had dislocated the shoulder. He switched hands and pulled the other one out as well. Afterwards he put the man down.

  He had expected the man to run in a last ditch attempt to survive, but the knight was paralyzed with fear. Instead of fleeing or fighting, he cried. He fell forward onto his knees and cried with his arms hanging uselessly at his sides.

  This angered the monster. It wasn’t fun when they were sad. He wanted fear, anger, indignation, revenge. But this man broke far too easily. So instead of savoring the moment he went for the kill. He pushed the man onto his back and, with a powerful strike, thrust his hand into the man’s chest, reached around just a little and ripped his heart out. While the man lay dying, the largest werewolf he had ever seen ate his heart.

  The werewolf went back for more. Fresh heart and fresh liver were a feast. Most of the human corpse actually tasted disgusting. But those two were nourishment worth killing a village for. He was now done with this excuse of a hunter. He dislocated the man’s legs and slit his throat. Taking the man’s sword and daggers he hung the man upside down on the tree by stabbing through his legs. He waited fifteen minutes for gravity to drain the blood out. Afterward, to satisfy his anger, he began to slash and punch the body. He even took several bites out of the corpse.

  Disappointed with the hunt, the wolf made his way back to the inn. Hopefully the next one would be more fun. About a mile from the village he transformed back into his human form and carried a stack of wood that he had prepared.

  —-------------------------------------

  Bruno's absence was noticed within twenty minutes– when he should have completed his rounds and checked in at the gate. The alarm was sounded and the search began immediately.

  "Have your men figured out anything about the creature that killed the hart?" Kasia asked her father over breakfast the next morning.

  “Unfortunately not, my dear. The corpse was savagely mutilated. Nathan said that it’s impossible to tell which marks are from teeth, or claws, or even rocks.” Her father shook his head wearily. “But none of that is your concern. We have plenty of seasoned hunters. You should focus on your training."

  “Where are Nathan and Ren this morning?”

  “They are busy. Nathan went to help search the woods for where the stag was killed and Ren, I would assume, has buried himself in the library to compile a list of possible monsters.”

  "Why do you think–

  The door opened, interrupting Kasia. “--Lord Commander! Forgive me for intruding in your private rooms,” the hunter looked very nervous. “But I was commanded that nothing should keep this news from you.”

  “Very well, what is it?”

  The hunter looked over at Kasia but it looked like the Lord Commander didn’t care. “The knights found something.”

  Jon's face instantly became unreadable. “I’m sorry Kasia, but I must go. You can have the day to yourself. Don’t involve yourself in this. I want you to be safe. And don’t leave the castle.”

  Kasia pouted, but quickly hid it. “Of course, Tatu?.”

  She debated obeying her father…the village was castle adjacent. And the creature that had killed the stag only attacked at night– she would be safe in broad daylight in the middle of the village. She made up her mind to go see her stranger.

  Janine and Andrew would be spending the day with Janine's mother, so she didn't bother telling them goodbye.

  She hurried down to the village, carefully avoiding any guards who would report this to her father. She walked through the door to the inn, and Sondra called out a greeting.

  “Well that’s unexpected.” Sondra beamed at her. “Today is the day you spend with your Ojciec, isn't it? What are you doing here my dear?”

  "Hunter business came up. He told me he'd be busy all day sooo I thought I'd come see the handsome stranger." She blushed, "is he around?"

  “He’s still sleeping. I think.” Sondra replied. “Is everything okay?”

  "Well, technically I'm not supposed to leave the castle right now so…. Just don't tell any knights you saw me." Kasia smiled brightly.

  "I'll just sit by the fire and wait for him to wake up." Kasia bit her lip, worrying it between her teeth, "Or do you think that's too forward? I don't want to come across as some love struck puppy…"

  “You’re cute. What would you like to do? You could wake him.”

  "Oh that's much too forward! We've had one meal together!" She hesitated, "but it's probably less creepy than sitting around waiting for him… maybe I should just go… yeah, that's the least creepy option. Thank you, Sondra, it was lovely to see you, as always." Kasia reached out to hug the kind woman.

  Sondra hugged Kasia tightly, “Are you alright?”

  Kasia furrowed her brow. "I really want to see him. But I know this isn't something serious and he will be moving on soon… so I don't know how to act." She looked up at Sondra, looking lost.

  Sondra made a thoughtful noise, “If tomorrow you returned and found that he had left, would you regret not seeing him today? Having some fun today?”

  Kasia searched Sondra's eyes, feeling torn. "Yes… I guess the worst that can happen is he can throw me out, right? Um… which room is his?"

  Sondra led Kasia quietly up to the door that would be where the handsome stranger would be sleeping. “If you decide to wake him, just go on in.” She patted Kasia on the head and returned downstairs.

  Kasia chewed on her lip some more, then knocked loudly...