Episode 2

Aurora makes a discovery, and a mistake.

Transcript

EPISODE 2

SCENE 1

DANIEL: Mmm...not yet.

narration: Daniel cracked an eye open cautiously, pulling himself up onto his elbows and looking up at the blurry shape of his horse’s head in front of him. The clearing was empty save for the two of them, marked only by the collection of footprints. An arrow, half buried in the snow, was the only indication that, despite his confusion, he hadn’t been dreaming.

DANIEL: Aurora, where are you?

DANIEL: V-vex it all.

narration: He moved to his horse’s side, pulling his scarf up over his nose and climbing shakily into the saddle again. The bridge loomed before him, rumbling with the sound of the river far below.

DANIEL: Aurora, please, can you hear me?

DRAVARA PATROLMAN: Sir!

DANIEL: G-goddesses, finally.

DRAVARA PATROLMAN: Sir, we’ve been searching for you half a day now!

DANIEL: I’m sorry, I just…I think I just woke up.

DRAVARA PATROLMAN: Excuse me, sir?

DANIEL: We were ambushed...I think.

DRAVARA PATROLMAN: I’m sorry, but ambushed by what exactly? Are you hurt?

DANIEL: They took Aurora and left me here. I don’t remember much…just being hit by something-

DRAVARA PATROLMAN: You must be mistaken, sir. I don’t think they take-

DANIEL: No, you are mistaken. They took him…he’s gone.

SCENE 2

narration: Something was ripped away from in front of his face, allowing light in and leaving him to clamp his eyes shut against it. His hands were tied, bound in rope, and he was vaguely aware of the hat tipping forward to cover much of his face from view.

AURORA: Shit…

narration: Aurora staggered to his feet only to be shoved back down to his knees again.

BANTREM: You will kneel.

AURORA: You can speak. I’m not as mad as I thought.

narration: The feeling of the paw was replaced with the feeling of claws prickling through his jacket. He didn’t dare look up, heart hammering in his chest as he stared down at the dirt floor beneath him.

SHAAH: If you trust him, why harm him?

BANTREM: I’m not hurting him.

AURORA: Why am I here? Do I not have the right to know?

SHAAH: You have nothing. Be quiet.

BANTREM: He needs to speak, Shaah. How else will—

AURORA: You both speak my language quite well. How did you learn?

BANTREM: Look up. You are hard to understand facing down.

AURORA: In a moment. My head is spinning. Meanwhile, where is my friend?

SHAAH: Back with your kind. He was left where he fell...unharmed.

SHAAH: Stand, Aurora. I only wish to speak. No harm will come if you hear what I have to say.

narration: Nodding, Aurora swallowed as he struggled to get to his feet, apprehensive about actually laying eyes on what his mind was assuming was a nightmarish creature. His knee wobbled as he stood, his head swam, spots flashing before his eyes, but everything seemed to clear the moment his gaze locked with the figure standing before him. Big was an understatement. Monstrous didn’t seem right either, too paralyzingly terrible to describe the creature that stood before him on its hind legs with arms, thick as a man’s leg and covered in a coat of dark gray fur, crossed in front of the barrel of its chest. Vaguely feline was his first thought judging by the face, mane and the rounded ears, but the horned crest seemed out of place, more suited for some sort of ox than a cat.

AURORA: I understand.

SHAAH: I have said nothing. What do you understand?

AURORA: This is a dream. I’ll soon wake up with the Dravara to realize that none of this is real—

BANTREM: You felt my claws. Would you feel them in a dream?

narration: Aurora frowned, turning to look back at the second who was much leaner, lighter in color to the point of being almost snowy white rather than the coal gray of the other. He, the one Aurora settled on, was marked much in the same way with the ringlet spots a few shades darker than the color of his fur.

AURORA: This is impossible.

SHAAH: This is no dream. We offer no harm. You will be returned to your Dravara—

AURORA: Believe me, they are far from mine.

BANTREM: Aurora…

AURORA: How did you learn my name?

BANTREM: You gave it to me.

AURORA: I’ll listen, but first I need to be sure we both understand something.

SHAAH: Speak then. Bantrem, free his hands.

AURORA: I appreciate that. Now, I am not, nor have I ever been, loyal to the Dravara. I’m a slave, and if this has something to do with them I’m the wrong person for you to speak with. My friend Daniel could tell you more, but he’s back with them. Secondly, I’m going to pretend for a moment that I’m not dreaming and that I’m going to believe everything you tell me—

SHAAH: Why would we lie?

BANTREM: Let him speak.

AURORA: You’ve said them, but what are your names? I want to know them, and what exactly you want from me here.

SHAAH: You are something.

BANTREM: I told you.

SHAAH: No control.

AURORA: Impossible to control, some might argue. Do you mind if I stand? My knee gives me trouble if I stay like this too long.

BANTREM: Stand, yes, be comfortable.

SHAAH: Most would cry or screech…scream and run.

AURORA: If we’re being honest with each other, the thought has crossed my mind.

BANTREM: You asked for names. I am Bantrem. Shaah allowed me to bring you here.

AURORA: I’d introduce myself but you already know my name. Now, how can I help the two of you gentle… What are you wanting from me?

SHAAH: What is your rank?

AURORA: You’re asking about the Dravara? Well, I certainly don’t lead them, but I do make life as difficult as possible for the one who does.

SHAAH: Rowena.

AURORA: You have met her then, haven’t you? I wasn’t aware of any contact between the Dravara and…your kind.

BANTREM: There is none that does not result in death.

AURORA: How do you know Rowena? You say there isn’t any peaceful contact between the Dravara and your kind, but how do you speak my language?

SHAAH: We...that story is long.

BANTREM: A traitor to the Dravara came with another of my kind to help us once, and before that, like Shaah said, the story is long.

AURORA: I don’t know anything about that. What happened to them? No one to my knowledge as ever—

SHAAH: We are unsure. It’s our belief that he is no longer alive. Rowena did not like what he did and we believe he is gone because of it.

AURORA: What was his name?

SHAAH: Allikeo. Many sun cycles ago he escaped with a member of another clan and came to us. He taught her to speak, and after he was gone she began to teach. He showed us there was light in your kind. You are capable of guilt just as we are.

AURORA: I don’t understand.

BANTREM: Do you know why the Dravara are here?

AURORA: No, not...not beyond what rhetoric I was taught ages ago. They protect against…

SHAAH: Go on, you will not offend us.

AURORA: There are dangers in the east that threaten the safety of the common people and their way of life. The Dravara protect against what lies over the Rift. That is what Rowena swears and that truly is all I know.

BANTREM: No harm has come to you, has it?

AURORA: No.

SHAAH: What else do you know?

AURORA: Nothing, I promise you.

SHAAH: You are lying to us. You are friends with the man who is her secondary, yes? He was with you.

AURORA: If you mean Daniel, he’s her chief officer. He doesn’t tell me about the inner workings of the Dravara. We don’t really talk about them at all.

AURORA: I’m starting to think you don’t want me dead, so...I ask again, what do you want?

BANTREM: It has been a long time since we’ve met one willing to stay. Forgive us for not getting to the point.

SHAAH: I do not want anything of you. I ask you only to listen to what I have to say and a very small amount of trust. Is this agreeable?

AURORA: Yes.

SHAAH: You need to see.

narration: Shaah pushed the hanging flap of a door aside without another word. Aurora swallowed, blinking as he stepped out into the light and trailed after the creature that traveled seemingly on top of the snow rather than sinking down like he did.

SHAAH: This way. It is not far.

narration: Aurora followed, glancing at Bantrem as he walked beside him and the three followed an incline in the land. The wood and thatch hut they’d been in was on a hillside, overlooking a valley below filled with a collection of similar structures. He swallowed, coming up beside Shaah and swallowing at the sight of the figures moving about below.

SHAAH: Look down. Tell me what you see.

AURORA: I see a village, more of you, and I see the trees. Is there something else I’m supposed to be seeing?

SHAAH: I see these things too, but I see more. These are the last of us, so few. So many have been killed. Do you know why, Aurora?

AURORA: No.

SHAAH: I have been told there are stories of what my kind is. No one ever speaks of the horrors of your own. Do you know why we no longer cross the Rift?

SHAAH: For creatures who think so highly of themselves, you are…simple minded. I repeat and repeat and still you do not understand me. Do you? The Rift is our protection. Fear of my kind protects us. The Rift is the one thing between my clan and death.

AURORA: You’re...talking about the Dravara.

SHAAH: How else can I say this?

BANTREM: Do you understand, Aurora?

AURORA: I’m sorry this is...a lot to understand at once.

SHAAH: Is this funny?

AURORA: N-no, no, hold on, that’s not what I meant.

SHAAH: We are wasting time. I regret having him here. Get rid of him.

AURORA: Wait, just a moment! I’ve heard nothing about this before. I didn’t know what the Dravara had done. This is...just a lot of information to get right now.

BANTREM: Do you think we’re lying to you?

AURORA: Not at all, you both have been...very genuine with me. I can try, to help you, I mean.

SHAAH: Good.

AURORA: I’m not sure what all I can do, but...maybe I can talk to Rowena.

AURORA: Isn’t that what you want from me? You want someone to help you, someone to tell the truth to the others, correct? Or, even better, someone to stop things entirely?

SHAAH: Yes.

AURORA: I’ll do it, at least what I can.

BANTREM: Don’t take us to be fools. We will hunt you down if you turn your back on this. Am I understood?

AURORA: You can say a lot about me, but I’m not a liar. I’ll speak with Rowena as soon…as I get back. You can trust me.

SHAAH: Take him back. Do not harm him. He will not be missed by his kind any longer.

AURORA: Oh, believe me, I haven’t been missed.

BANTREM: I will take you back, but you will cross alone. The Dravara will find you. Until we cross, I will keep you safe.

AURORA: Right...appreciated, all things considered.

BANTREM: Here, tie this around your eyes. You will not remove it until I say, yes?

AURORA: Just don’t let me stumble into The Rift and we’ll be just fine.

BANTREM: The others will believe you were taken. Speak to her. No one else, understand?

AURORA: Yes.

SHAAH: We are counting on you.

SCENE 3

LUCIUS: Officer Norton?

DANIEL: I’m sorry, what were you saying?

LUCIUS: You’ve been staring at the same place for a long time. I was told to either see if you were alright or take you to the infirmary.

LUCIUS: Sir?

DANIEL: Of course…I’ll get right on that.

LUCIUS: Get right on what exactly, sir?

DANIEL: Patrols…I should go out again. I’m fine but I don’t need someone to check up on me. I’m just…shaken is all.

LUCIUS: I’m sorry, sir. I didn’t mean to—

DANIEL: Tell Rowena she doesn’t need to worry about me.

LUCIUS: Yes, sir.

STABLEBOY: Excuse me, Officer Norton? I wasn’t meaning to listen, but do you want me to ready your horse, sir?

DANIEL: Please.

narration: The boy disappeared from his sight, hurrying off into the stables while Daniel headed towards the main gates. The boy returned shortly, dark hair swept to one side with a push of his hand as he handed off the reins of his horse. Daniel thanked him, pressing a coin into the boy’s hand and watching as his tired eyes sparked.

STABLEBOY: Thank you, sir!

narration: He nodded, not saying anything else as he climbed into the saddle and tapped his heels against the horse’s side.

GATEKEEPER: Going out alone?

DANIEL: Yes.

GATEKEEPER: It’s getting dark, sir. Are you sure?

DANIEL: I won’t be long. I just need to look again.

GATEKEEPER: Watch yourself out there.

narration: The man stepped back then, signaling for the gates to be opened. Daniel watched, apprehension rising when he watched the doors swing open. It wasn’t long before the stronghold disappeared behind them and they were galloping along, racing through trees that reached out like spidery limbs as the sun sunk lower down on the horizon. He didn’t want to look anywhere but ahead, fearing he’d be too frightened by the shadows stalking along beside him to continue.

DANIEL: Whoa, now.

narration: The path wasn’t wide, large enough only for a single horseman to ride alone, but as he stared down it, he could have sworn it went on forever.

DANIEL: We had less than six months and you had to ruin it for yourself, Aurora. Six months and then…this would be over with—

AURORA: I honestly didn’t think this should surprise you. You have to admit, as bad as it was, this isn’t the worst thing I’ve done. So, really I see nothing wrong with what happened.

DANIEL: Oh, I hate you.

SCENE 4

narration: Night fell without incident.

DANIEL: She’s asking for you.

AURORA: Oh, she wants to see me now? Is it finally convenient for her?

DANIEL: Be nice.

narration: He tipped his hat, setting off towards the keep and watching as Daniel came up beside him.

DANIEL: Are you sure everything is alright?

AURORA: I’m fine.

DANIEL: She asked that no one else be with you when you’re there...unless you’d like me to come as well. It’s up to you.

AURORA: Did she actually say you could be there?

DANIEL: No…how did you know?

AURORA: You rub the back of your neck when you lie. I’ll manage.

DANIEL: Just...please, be careful.

DANIEL: I think you two could get along if—

AURORA: If I rolled over and showed my belly? She’s arrogant—

DANIEL: An entirely unfamiliar concept to you, right? No, that isn’t what I was going to say. Never mind.

AURORA: How are things with that by the way? Still enjoying the privileges of being the chief officer?

DANIEL: It’s...well, it’s fine.

narration: The keep was shaped into a five pointed star, stone walls more massive than any he’d ever seen, extended up towards the heavens much in the way a cathedral, even if the building was far from that, would have been built. Four towers, each ensnared in a net of rimethorn vines, reared up from the courtyard to where they were connected by a series of upper walkways.

DANIEL: I’ll be right here if you need me. Please, try not to—

AURORA: I won’t.

DANIEL: Aurora, I’m serious.

narration: Daniel rubbed at his wrists, eyes glued to the ground while Aurora turned and headed towards the staircase nearby. The halls were dark, lit only by lanterns that hung along the wall, and the air, though they were inside, felt colder even than the courtyard. His feet didn’t make it beyond the first step before he saw her, the shadow looming in front of him.

ROWENA: Good evening. I’m glad you requested a meeting. We have much to discuss and I certainly am unable to talk with you very often.

narration: She smiled, the red of her lips parting to reveal a sharp smile that sent a prick of something indistinguishable down his spine.

ROWENA: I am sure you’re tired after such an ordeal, however, I can assure you that I will keep things brief. You weren’t injured, were you? Odd, all things considered.

AURORA: I’m fine, appreciate the concern.

ROWENA: Wonderful, though, I must say, I expected worse. I apologize for that by the way. You must have been terrified. Forgive me, Norton tells me you were rather unshaken by the ordeal. I applaud the bravery.

AURORA: Fear is sort of a strange gray area for me.

ROWENA: I know. I thought we would talk in the lounge. You are always welcome there--you do know that, don’t you? Your friend Daniel has visited…quite often, in fact. When he’s not burdened with keeping you out of trouble.

ROWENA: This way, if you will.

narration: They reached the top of the stairs. He glanced up, eyeing the chandelier that seemed out of place compared to the rest of the room that was old, decorated plainly with a few chairs and lit by a fire burning in the massive hearth in front of them. On the floor was a rug, faded, fur, and wouldn’t have made his blood freeze if it wasn’t marked by sickeningly familiar ringed patterns.

ROWENA: You may sit down if it would be more comfortable. You must be exhausted. Would you like something to drink?

AURORA: No...no, thank you.

ROWENA: Wine? Something stronger, perhaps?

AURORA: I don’t drink.

ROWENA: A little story I was told the other day tends to suggest otherwise.

narration: Rowena started reaching for a clear bottle and pouring herself a glass, pausing to glance up at him, before pouring a second. She reached forward, handing it to Aurora before stepping back with the same calm smile twisting on her lips.

AURORA: I’m going to assume you know why I’m here.

ROWENA: Indeed, but please, do tell me why you wanted to speak with me. It would be more interesting than hearing me talk this whole time, won’t it?

AURORA: Daniel and I were abducted. Well, I was taken…he was left on this side. You already know about them, I assume, so I won’t go into who took me—

ROWENA: Yes, but being taken isn’t why you’re here.

AURORA: Will you answer something for me?

ROWENA: Of course.

AURORA: Why didn’t they kill me?

ROWENA: Excuse me. I was surprised by your question. I’m afraid I can’t answer it for you.

AURORA: What can you answer for me?

ROWENA: You were the one who requested the meeting, did you not? Ask what you wish and I’ll let you go on your way. Or, you could stay a while, if you’d like. I do believe we agreed to keep this meeting brief, yes?

AURORA: You obviously know why I’m here but I’m lost. Tell me why you think I’m here and—

ROWENA: Oh, don’t lie to me, Aurora. You know very well why you’re here. I just don’t understand why you won’t speak your mind. I don’t have all evening, but we can keep dancing around it, if you’d like. Forgive me, if I’m misunderstanding.

AURORA: Why did they take me? You know that answer, don’t you?

ROWENA: Of course.

AURORA: I’ve had enough of this. Answer my questions or I’ll leave—

ROWENA: I was never able to understand you. You act like you have such a mystery about you. The dark looks, the reclusive behavior...certainly helps you with that. Your silly little hat throws that all off a bit, doesn’t it? It’s truly a shame you’re leaving us so soon.

narration: Rowena reached up, running a hand along the brim of his hat before he tore away.

ROWENA: You really are fascinating.

AURORA: I wish I knew the difference between earnestness and ridicule with you.

ROWENA: Oh, will you calm down? I thought it was clear I was only joking with you. My previous chief officer spoke very highly of you since the day you arrived. It baffled me for a long while, but he truly believed you could become something great. You know that, don’t you?

ROWENA: Don’t you?

AURORA: Yes.

ROWENA: Sit down, Aurora. I know why you’re here. The only question is, do you?

narration: He glared, trying to pull away but stopping when her hand snatched at the fabric of his scarf, tightening the knot at his throat. She smiled, snaking an arm behind his head to the back of his neck, wrenching his head forward painfully until they were only inches apart.

ROWENA: I’m not afraid of you. If there is something you want to talk about, do share. I assume you were told some information, correct?

AURORA: Yes.

ROWENA: Sit down and I’ll tell you everything.

narration: She let go, reaching back for the drink he’d set down earlier and placing it back into his hand once more.

ROWENA: Have a drink. You will feel much better. I can assure you that.

narration: Glaring still, he sat down in the same chair, propping his boots up on the table and slumping back carefully. She frowned lightly, almost seeming disappointed before she moved, light as air, to lean against the arm of his chair.

ROWENA: You are asking why you were taken, correct? Unfortunately, I don’t have a very good answer for you. If you tell me what all was said, I can explain, or...we can continue with the dance.

AURORA: Just don’t touch me again.

ROWENA: As I was saying, names are usually given. Were you given any names?

AURORA: What do you mean? Has this happened before?

ROWENA: It’s been a long time now. A newer recruit was taken after some rather…complicated circumstances. Others claim to have been taken but they never have been able to supply names. However, the other recruit knew things many of the others didn’t afterward. So, my question is…what were you told?

AURORA: Is it true?

ROWENA: That depends on what they told you.

AURORA: You already know what I was told. I was told what the Dravara have done, what you have done. I was told about the parties sent over to kill them and I’m partial to believing them considering the Dravara have done nothing but make me hate—

ROWENA: Hate is a strong word.

AURORA: Is it true, or not?

ROWENA: That is what they call themselves, but you were asking what I can gain from this. Well, the answer is simple.

AURORA: Wealth?

ROWENA: I have my reasons and I’m sure you could find out for yourself. I know, why don’t you give it a try?

AURORA: I don’t like riddles.

ROWENA: You have an imagination, don’t you? Imagine this for me; you are living in a place haunted by tales of what lurks just outside your door. However, you’ve been entrusted with protecting the common people from this threat and not a man or woman in the world can touch you. On top of that you’re living in luxury with people who cater to your every whim, ones who keep the nights from being so lonely and others who simply are there to serve you. The capital takes care of you, always. It sounds wonderful, does it not?

AURORA: You’re describing yourself.

ROWENA: Power and wealth are things that make this world spin round…and round, Aurora. Do you understand? If not, I could go on. There are other reasons—

AURORA: That’s bullshit, all of it, and you know it. What? I suppose you’ll have to kill me now, right?

ROWENA: I don’t appreciate being interrupted.

AURORA: Yes, and I don’t care.

ROWENA: On the subject of killing you…of course not! There are plenty who know just what’s going on here. Retrievers, I call them, who would be happy for you to join them. I normally try to keep things in the dark. Too many people who know the truth makes for a liability and you understand why I can’t have that, don’t you?

AURORA: Why would I und—

ROWENA: That silly name of yours. I never understood it, but hiding your real name is important to you, isn’t it? But some advice—

AURORA: I don’t want your advice. What have they ever done to you? How can you justify—

ROWENA: They’re not like us, Aurora—

AURORA: If you’re going to argue they’re any lesser, not many animals I know of can speak and have entire villages. They’re afraid—

ROWENA: Fear is natural.

narration: His hand moved to brush over the holster at his side but her revolver was already free, trained at his chest

ROWENA: Lay a finger on that gun and I’ll shoot a hole through that pretty face of yours. I’m certain no one would miss you.

AURORA: I know.

narration: She smiled then, slowly lowering the gun and holstering it once more. The door opened but Aurora kept his back turned, hearing the two enter was enough.

ROWENA: Ah, thank you both for coming on such a short notice. I knew we would have some trouble and—

AURORA: My understanding was this was a private meeting.

ROWENA: I’m afraid I simply can’t let you leave, Aurora. You are an enjoyment to have around but I don’t believe I can trust you to keep this between us. I will be sending a retrieval party out tomorrow and I’d like for you to join them. Am I understood?

AURORA: Understood but there isn’t a chance—

ROWENA: No, none of that, you are going to join them.

AURORA: Do you expect me to roll over like a dog? It isn’t going to work.

narration: The Dravara were grabbing at his arm then, dragging him backwards while he struggled to throw them off despite the pain ripping through his shoulder. However, he stopped the instant a boot was slammed into the back of his knee and he sunk down to the ground. Rowena sighed then, walking over and raising his head up with a gentle finger.

ROWENA: You will do as you’re told, understood? I really would hate to get rid of you. You’ve survived so long without too many horribly serious incidents. This isn’t worth your life.

AURORA: You’re a liar and a murderer!

ROWENA: You have such a hatred for me. It’s a shame you couldn’t harness it. Goodbye Aurora, I hope we can talk again sometime soon. It’s always a pleasure.

AURORA: Fuck off—

narration: A hand was clamped over his mouth, cutting him off as they dragged him to his feet and back towards the door again. Rowena smiled as they left.

ROWENA: You’ll do as you’re told. They always do.

SCENE 5

A flashback.

From outside of the room, voices can be heard. Young Aurora sits up in bed, then gets up slowly and creeps out into the main area of the inn.

JACKSON: Glad you finally decided to get up, son.

BENJAMIN: How many sons do you have, innkeeper?

JACKSON: Three.

narration: Three officers, clad in blue.

BENJAMIN: So, which one are you?

ELIZABETH: Aurora.

BENJAMIN: Not a name I’ve heard before. Odd, but he can speak, can’t he, or do you have two mute sons?

ELIZABETH: How’d you know Silas was mute?

BENJAMIN: Oh, your father must’ve mentioned it earlier to me.

ELIZABETH: Don’t think he did.

JACKSON: Sir.

AURORA: No, sir. I speak just fine. As I said, my name is Aurora.

DRAVARA OFFICER 1: I told you the innkeeper wasn’t joking. What sort of a name is that?

BENJAMIN: I’ve met men with strange names before, but not as strange as yours. The obnoxious one is Richard and the quiet one is Bradley. I’m Benjamin Hooke. We were told that there have been instances of runaways being harbored in this town. Do you, and of course you don’t, but do you know anything about that?

AURORA: No, sir. There were a few of them wandering the streets for a while. I suggest you look there.

BENJAMIN: How old are you exactly? Must be getting close to sixteen now, aren’t you?

AURORA: Fifteen, sir, the same age as my brother and my sister is a few months behind. I turn sixteen in the fall. Y-you’re an officer of the Dravara, aren’t you?

BENJAMIN: You know, we have young as fourteen joining up. In answer to your question, yes, I’m an officer. Seen much of the Dravara before to know that?

AURORA: No, sir. You’ve looked at the other two and they stopped what they were doing. You’re older than I am by a number of years which means you’ve stayed with the Dravara for longer than just two or four years. So, if you’ve stayed that long, you’ve likely worked your way up the ranks which...is why I said officer.

BENJAMIN: We could use more like you.

AURORA: Thank you, sir. Father, should I go wake Daniel?

JACKSON: Yes, you three have work to do. I sent Silas on an errand this morning already. Would you gentlemen like a drink? On the house for men of the service. Don’t see many Dravara around here unless you count the occasional bounty hunters.

BENJAMIN: Perhaps we should come more often.

narration: He moved off towards Daniel’s room, feet treading carefully over the wooden floor. He raised his fist to knock, hair on the back of his neck prickling.

AURORA (hissing as he knocks): Daniel, get up. (the door squeaks open) You look like someone wrestled you out of that bed. Is your hair always like that?

DANIEL (sleepy): What is it?

AURORA: The Dravara.

DANIEL (yawning): What about them?

AURORA: They’re here.

SCENE 6: 

A flashback. 

JACKSON: Step back. I swear to both of the vexing goddesses I’ll blow your—

A gunshot rips through the air.

JACKSON: Boys, run!

The sound is off still, skipping around faster than they could actually reach the tree line, branches snapping and people panting while they run through the trees.

DANIEL (panicked): Isn’t there somewhere we can hide?

SILAS: Clearing.

ELIZABETH: We’ll split up—

She’s cut off when a gunshot rips through the air again and SILAS cries out in pain.

SILAS (strained, distorted): Go.

More gunshots, Silas returns fire with his good arm, the other bloodied.

AURORA: We can’t leave you!

SILAS: We don’t…have time. Run—

ELIZABETH: No—

SILAS (in very obvious pain, very distorted): Go!

Sound distorts heavily, fading out into a shrill ring after another gunshot.

AURORA: Stay back!

BENJAMIN: Would have been easier if you just came along. I can help you—

AURORA: I said, (gun cocks) stay back!

BENJAMIN: Aurora, wait!

narration: He didn’t stop running.

SCENE 7:

Aurora wakes up panting and panicked, shaking so badly he basically falls out of bed and scrambles against his desk, knocking papers over.

AURORA: S’fine...she’s…

narration: Aurora rose shakily, collecting his hat and his coat. Something, there had to be something he could do.

AURORA: Open the gates.

GUARDSMAN: I’m afraid I can’t do that. Not supposed to open until the patrol gets back.

narration: Aurora’s horse was spinning wildly in circles, as impatient and fiery as his rider. He grit his teeth, glaring and pulling sharply to halt his horse in front of him.

AURORA: Open them!

GUARDSMAN: I’m sorry. Rowena herself ordered the gates remain closed.

AURORA: Why?

GUARDSMAN: I don’t question the orders I get, do you?

AURORA: I do now. Open the gates, please, or I’ll blow your vexing head off.

GUARDSMAN: Open the gates!

The gates open with a groan, Aurora’s horse whinnies and they tear off into the trees.

narration: Aurora rides hard for several moments, galloping while his horse breathes heavily and races through the trees. The wind whips around them, the snow is relatively compact and pounded down by previous patrols, so they’re moving at a high speed. He doesn’t slow until more whinnies can be heard in the distance while he approaches the Dravara party. Aurora’s horse screams in answer to the distant party.

AURORA: Easy!

DRAVARA PATROLMAN: Who goes there?

narration: He pulled to a halt finally, horse dancing sideways as Aurora faced them, faced him.

DANIEL: You shouldn’t be here.

AURORA: Neither should you.

DANIEL: Aurora, turn around and ride back the way you came. I’m begging you.

DRAVARA PATROLMAN: Go back to the stronghold! You don’t know what you’re doing, you damn loon.

DANIEL: That’s enough. How did you get here? The gates were closed—

AURORA: I opened them.

DANIEL: We need to talk, but not now—

AURORA: Daniel, listen to—

DANIEL: No, you listen to me. What are you doing out here?

AURORA: I...want to join you.

DANIEL: No, go back to the stronghold. Just...how do you know about the retrieval parties? No one—

AURORA: Rowena.

DANIEL: I know that’s not true—

AURORA: She told me—

DANIEL: No, I don’t doubt that much. I just know you wouldn’t do this.

AURORA: You’re right. I know they don’t trust me, but you have to listen. We can’t do this, Daniel. They—

DANIEL: Excuse me? There is no we, Aurora. I’m doing my job. Go back to the stronghold before you get hurt.

AURORA: I refuse to go back knowing what you’re about to do. Can’t you see what she’s doing to you? To them?

DANIEL: If you’ll excuse me, I need to get back to my job. You should try it. Go home...before you get yourself killed.

A low bellow cuts through the brief silence that fell, echoing through the trees and reverberating between them.

narration: He knew what it was before he even spurred his horse forward, surpassing a frozen Daniel who only stared, and came to see the figures emerging from the trees.

AURORA: Run! Get out of here!

DANIEL: S-stand your ground!

AURORA: You’re going to die. Don’t listen to him!

narration: One, a single rider, shot from the group only to his escape and his breath cut short when two arrows were buried in his chest a moment later.

A gunshot rings out.

narration: Aurora’s head whipped sideways spot Daniel, trying to control an equally spooked horse as the sound of his shot faded.

AURORA: Run!

DANIEL: Form ranks! Don’t listen to him!

narration: It wasn’t hard to pick the hulking form of Shaah from the rest of them, coal colored fur marked with paint, designs that Aurora couldn’t bring himself to focus on.

SHAAH (furious, yelling and echoing through the trees): You lie!

Horses scream, men shout, but there aren’t sounds of combat just yet.

AURORA: Kill me, then. You’re right…I lied to you! These others have done nothing—

SHAAH: Done nothing?

AURORA: Leave them be. No one wants to die and I don’t think you can afford to lose any of your clan, can you?

The Dravara charged and the two sides met in a flurry of gunfire and daggered teeth. There are gunshots, horses fleeing, chaos all around as the Dravara party is slain. The fight was over before it even began and Aurora watched, frozen, as the Dravara were cut down, shot from their horses or simply torn from the backs of their panicking steeds. It felt he’d only blinked before he was staring at the dead, the dying, and the wounded still crying out for help around him.

DANIEL: Aurora!

The voice brought him back into reality but not before his horse was thrown sideways, sending him rolling away until he was snatched from the ground a moment later. He hits the ground and rolls, his horse scrambling upward and bolting off into the trees. Shaah lifts him by the back of his coat then, holding him in the air while Aurora struggles.

SHAAH: I should have known. Bantrem has failed. You have failed—

AURORA (straining): Wait!

Shaah snarled, tossing him away into the snow again and forcing the breath from his chest as he landed roughly. He wheezed, trying to scramble to his feet but not even making it off the ground before Shaah’s paw was around his throat, claws digging into flesh as he was lifted once more.

AURORA (gasping): Please, I can help!

SHAAH: You lie again? I spared your life!

This time a gunshot rings out much closer, and the clan leader roars in pain.

DANIEL (sliding to his side in the snow): Aurora, are you alright?

AURORA (wheezing): Didn’t think we’d die like this, did you?

DANIEL (whimpering): We’re surrounded.

AURORA: And you just shot the clan leader, brilliant.

SHAAH: Kill them!

AURORA: Daniel is the chief officer! He has more power than I do with the Dravara. He can change this, all of this! It will never happen again!

DANIEL: N-no, Aurora, stop—

SHAAH: You are asking for mercy? I gave you one chance and you repay me with this. I left you alive but I will not make a mistake again.

DANIEL: Please, I-I don’t want to die.

AURORA: Wait, your arm...that will kill you if you don’t treat the poison.

Shaah growls, then gets quiet.

SHAAH: What poison?

AURORA: We can help you. Daniel is quite the healer, aren’t you?

DANIEL (catching on): Yes, w-well, I’m not the best but I can h-help you.

SHAAH: Why should I trust you? You cause nothing but pain.

AURORA: You told me once about the Dravara who helped you—

SHAAH: He is dead!

AURORA: And you will be too…if you don’t let us help you.

There’s a pause as if Shaah is considering it, still growling, before that sound too fades.

SHAAH: Fine, help then.

AURORA (relaxing a bit but still tense): Daniel, you’re the expert here. So, make like an expert and…expert…things.

DANIEL (gulping): Will...you allow me?

narration: His ears flattened, teeth still bared before he held his arm out for Daniel to see.

DANIEL: Alright, Aurora...can you find a saddlepack and find some bandages. I’m sure...some of the horses were carrying supplies.

Aurora nodded, watching Daniel carefully as he turned to face the nearest animal, legs splayed out and mouth still frozen in a fearful whinny that never managed to escape before an arrow had struck it dead. He swallowed, shivering as he moved forward to dig through the pack and returned with what he assumed was the only medical supplies they had.

SHAAH: You have killed before. I remember the faces—

AURORA (cutting off that sentence quickly): Here!

DANIEL: Open the vial for me.

narration: Daniel’s shaking hands rotated the clan leader’s arm carefully.

DANIEL: This will hurt—

SHAAH: You have done worse.

DANIEL: I-I was only warning you.

Shaah recoils with a snarl, huffing loudly and stumbling backwards in the snow.

AURORA: He did warn you!

DANIEL: Aurora, shut up. You’ll need to keep it covered.

SHAAH: We know how to care for our wounded.

For a moment, things are quiet.

DANIEL: You killed my men.

AURORA: Daniel, stop.

DANIEL (upset): No, I knew these men. They’re dead now because of you—

SHAAH (roaring, echoing as startled birds caw and fly off into the trees): And your men would have done the same!

AURORA: Daniel, this is not a fight you’re going to win.

narration: Daniel’s hand was on his pistol a moment later, tearing away from Aurora to cock the weapon back to fire as his aim steadied.

DANIEL: But I-I won’t die before he does.

AURORA: Lower—

DANIEL: No.

SHAAH: You are all the same. You will attack even if it means you will die. Fire your weapon and you will die—

DANIEL: And so will you.

narration: Aurora’s heart was pounding, hammering faster with every second that rolled by and every twitch of the faeloren around them. He didn’t even notice the one drawing an arrow, pulling back to fire and aiming, until Daniel spun to face them.

DANIEL: Move an inch and I-I swear to the goddesses, I’ll shoot you!

narration: The faeloren’s ears flattened, bowstring coming forward slowly.

AURORA: Leave them alone! They don’t understand!

narration: Daniel glared, turning to face Aurora and, much to his horror, he caught sight of the faeloren drawing back again. Daniel whipped around when his eyes widened.

The bow fires first, and then a gunshot rings out in answer. The faeloren screams and falls into the snow.

Daniel’s eyes stared straight ahead, horror in his gaze as he stared at the barrel of his gun, hammer still drawn back to fire. With one swipe of his arm, Shaah struck Daniel in the side of the head and sent him sailing into the snow.

SHAAH: You are a liar!

The sound goes out a bit, ringing, and Shaah’s voice echoes in Aurora’s head, but the faeloren make an obvious retreat as reinforcements approach. Guns begin to fire, and the faeloren are running now, disappearing back into the trees.

narration: He went stumbling sideways, limbs unfreezing as he slid to Daniel’s side, kneeling and shaking his shoulder.

AURORA (panicked): Daniel, can you hear me?

Daniel doesn’t respond or make a sound, deathly still on the ground.

AURORA: Vex it all! Answer me, you son of a bitch!

The sound echoes again as Aurora starts to panic, making vague mumbling noises as he tries to get Daniel to respond.

ROWENA: What have you done?

narration: Aurora looked up at the white horse, but seeing the black of its rider’s hair was more than enough of a glance.

AURORA: Help me.

ROWENA: Seize him.

AURORA (panicked, sobbing): Help him, please, I’m begging you!

narration: Rowena dismounted, moving to kneel at Daniel’s side, fingers pressing lightly beneath his chin.

AURORA: Help him! He’s bleeding, he’s...there’s blood, he’s…

ROWENA: He’s dead.

AURORA: No...no, he’s not!

ROWENA: Oh, Aurora...what have you done?