I recently started writing a book. I hope you like it! As well as my drawing as well, inspired by it :D Sorry for the length too, They're longer chapters than what I usually do. Please tell me what you think!

Chapter One
A blur flashed in the trees, the fern fronds lashing in the wind left behind. The blur slammed to a halt. A silver tabby stood panting in an exposed clearing, gazing around franticly with fear in its eyes. Behind it there were cracking twigs and the ground was pounding as the thing pursued it. The cat swung around and raced into the trees again, its chest heaving. A loud yowl split the air, and the tabby quickly changed direction and headed towards it. Just ahead, a small white head was poking out of the ground. The cat’s blue eyes were wide.
“Mahru what are you doing?! Hurry inside!” The cats head disappeared and Mahru launched into the hole. A lid fell and it went dark, only specks of light shining through the thick leaves that now covered the hole. Mahru’s chest was heaving more as she tried to catch her breath. The white cat slapped his tail over her mouth, fear in his eyes. Above, the lid creaked as the creature’s feet stepped down on it. Mahru closed her eyes tight, wishing to the spirits that they wouldn’t find them. Everything went dark as the creature bent down and felt the ground. It grunted before moving off, its feet pounding hard on the ground.
Mahru opened her eyes slowly, seeing that the light was back above them. She let out a sigh of relief and relaxed, trying to catch her breathing again. The white tom looked at her. “What were you doing back there? You could’ve been killed!”
Mahru rolled her eyes. “Why must you worry Keenu? Everything’s fine! I know what I’m doing.”
Keenu snorted. “Sure you do. That’s exactly why that human was chasing you for your tail!”
“Everything was fine Keenu! Just let it be. I’m safe now, it doesn’t matter if he saw me or not!” Mahru opened the lid and crawled out into the forest, leaves brushing her belly fur. The sun shone on her silver and black tabby pelt. She sighed and sat down, thinking about what Keenu said. I had everything planned, but I miscalculated the distance. I had everything perfect! But he was right; I need to be more careful next time.
Keenu lifted the lid and sat down beside her. His head was up to her shoulder, and Mahru couldn’t help herself but remember when he was no more than the size of her paw. Keenu looked at her, his blue eyes shining with remorse. “I’m sorry Mahru. I just worry for you. You’re the only family I have left.”
Mahru pressed against him, pain piercing her own heart. Keenu’s mother was Mahru’s best friend, and when his mother was dying, Mahru was at her bedside and had promised she would care for her son. Keenu’s father had gone to fight in the war shortly before his son was born, dying in combat and never meeting his only son. Now she cared for the young cat, training him as his father would have done, and raising him like his mother. Every time she looked at Keenu, she was reminded of the soft features of his mother, from his snow white fur to the sky blue eyes. She was saddened that her friend had died before she could see him grow up, but she was glad of the company he gave her.
Mahru got to her paws and nudged Keenu to do the same. “No doubt that human will come back for both our tails, so let’s get moving. We have to get home before the sun sets.”
Keenu nodded in agreement and followed as Mahru padded through the trees toward their home. They walked on in silence, careful to make sure they weren’t being followed. After a few minutes, Mahru spotted their house. She pushed through a very large clump of bramble tendrils and stopped, gazing at their home. In front of them a large oak stood high in the sky, the dying light shining on the green leaves. Below, a slope lead down to a shining creek that flowed down a tumble of rocks into a pool that gathered at the base of the tree. Placed in the tree was a small wooden house, tucked securely into the leaves ensuring safety. Mahru smiled. We’re back.
Keenu bounded over to the tree roots and launched up the trunk with a flying leap, wind carrying him almost all the way up. He dug his claws into the hard bark and hauled up the rest of the way. He panted at the top, his eyes shining. “I almost made it!”
Mahru purred. “Almost! Well done Keenu!” Mahru bunched her muscles and sprung into the air, feeling the wind push her farther and faster until she landed lightly beside Keenu. “Work harder and you can make it as high as me!” Mahru padded over to the door and stood on her hind legs, allowing herself to grow higher until she stood as high as the door. She grabbed the knob and turned, smiling as the door swung open. She stepped inside and flipped on the light. The house was small but cozy, fit with a small stove, fridge, and a table for the kitchen. Inside another room two beds were spread on the floor with a pillow and blanket. Across from that was a small closet, filled to the brim with human clothes.
Mahru walked over to the closet and grabbed a shirt and put it on, feeling her fur brush against the fabric. “Come on Keenu! Come in and get some food for dinner.”
Keenu padded into the house and jumped onto the table, his tail twitching. “Do we have to transform? I don’t like to resemble those retched humans.”
“Of course you do!” Mahru snapped, opening the fridge and grabbing an apple. “It’s the only way to survive in this world now.”
“No its not!” Keenu insisted. “My father fought to give us rights and protect us from them. Why should we hide amongst them when we want to be free?”
Mahru dug her claws into the apple. “We haven’t won the war yet! Our tails are still wanted and they are still allowed to be taken! Nothing has changed yet, and you know it Keenu.” Mahru took a bite of her apple and chewed slowly. Keenu bowed his head and jumped off the table. He too took an article of clothing from the closet and sat at the table, his head on his paws. Mahru sighed and sat across from him. “I’m sorry I yelled, but these are skills you need to know to survive. I did not promise your mother I will raise you for you to just get your tail ripped off and made into a scarf.”
Keenu was silent, but he nodded slowly. He lifted his head and went over to the fridge and took a fruit and a soda. He tossed one to Mahru and sat down again. Mahru opened her soda and sipped the fizz lined at the top. “We have to be careful with how much we eat. I can only afford a little more before we have to go back to the market.”
Keenu nodded and took another bite of his fruit. “Do I have to go with again? I don’t like being surrounded by people.”
“Too bad, because I can’t leave you alone. The spirits know that hunter won’t give up easy. He’ll be in these parts for quite a bit and I don’t want to risk anything.” Mahru mewed bitterly.
Keenu growled and took a gulp of his soda. He got to his paws and looked outside. Mahru followed his gaze. The sun had disappeared and the moons glow was lighting the forest outside. Mahru quickly got to her paws and turned off the lights. Keenu looked at her with alarm. “Do you think he saw the light?” He whispered, his blue eyes glowing in the dim.
“I don’t know,” Mahru whispered back. “We may have to move to a shelter for the next few nights to make sure. Get packed tonight so we can move out tomorrow morning.” Mahru turned away and went over to the closet. She took a few pairs of clothes, including a hat and boots, and dropped them onto the table. She grabbed a backpack and shoved some inside, leaving the worn boots, a pair of clothes, and the hat on the table. She took the pair of jean and folded them, and then took the short sleeved shirt and placed them on top.
Keenu had grabbed the same, putting his clothes in a smaller pack and leaving a pair for the morning. He grabbed a few fruit and placed them inside as well, and passed a bottle of water to Mahru. “I hope we don’t come back to a mess.”
Mahru placed her hand on his shoulder. “I do too.” She turned around and went over to the bedroom door. She looked expectantly at Keenu. “Come on then, let’s get to bed. We have a long day in front of us tomorrow.”
Keenu nodded and went into the bedroom. Mahru followed, yawning wide. The young cat lay in the bed and flung the sheets over him and tucked down. Mahru did the same and lay on her side, facing Keenu like always. Keenu smiled at her and rolled onto his side, closing his blue eyes tight. Mahru looked out the window at the darkening sky once more before doing the same, the room going dark around her.

Mahru blinked open her eyes, the sun not raised yet into the sky. The pre-dawn light shone into the room, casting shadows around them. Mahru sat up and shook Keenu awake. The white cat woke up, blinking sleep from his eyes and yawning. Keenu was about to speak before Mahru shushed him. She didn’t want to get caught up in a conversation. She led Keenu into the kitchen and took hold of her clothes. When Keenu did the same, Mahru turned to him. “When you change, make sure to tuck in and transform. I don’t want to risk getting caught in this form.”
Keenu nodded and took his clothes into the bedroom, returning in a moment with his clothes on. His skin was pink like a human, including the hands and feet of one. He had white spikey hair that framed his face, which was round with bright blue eyes. His nose was small and his skin was paler white, a little pinker than his hair. His height was shorter for his age, but his legs were considerably long. Atop his head were two furry triangles, twitching in embarrassment.
Mahru hit him aside the head. “You forgot your hat.” Her tone was light, but she said it firmly. “No one needs to see that you have cat ears. Now turn around.” Mahru twirled her finger around, indicating for him to turn.
Keenu spun around to show her the back of his jeans. Surprisingly there was no sign of his white tail, which was tucked firmly into the jeans. “Well done Keenu! Done like a true master!”
Keenu grinned. “Thanks. I’ll get my hat and we can go when you’re done!”
Mahru nodded. She grabbed her shirt and jeans and went into the bedroom. Inside was Keenu’s old shirt lying on the floor on top of his bed. Mahru threw her shirt on her bed too before shifting into her human form. Her tail swished and her ears flicked. No matter how hard she tried, she didn’t think she would ever get used to this form. Quickly she put on her clothes, making sure to tuck in her tail like Keenu had done. She slipped on her boots and her hat and looked in the mirror. In the reflective glass Mahru could see herself. She was a little tanner than Keenu, and her hair was a black color that went down to her back. She quickly ran her fingers through her hair and did a quick braid in the back before going back into the kitchen.
Keenu nodded in approval and handed her her bag. “Come on then, let’s go. You know the way.”
Mahru grinned and opened the house door. The sun was starting to rise farther into the sky, sending more light into the forest below. Mahru jumped down, landing softly on the forest floor far below. Keenu closed the door behind him and did the same, sending leaves to scatter around his feet. He held his brown hat down as he landed, careful it didn’t fall off. He stood up quickly, his face bright. “Should we fill up for water since we’re here?” He asked, gesturing to the chatter creek nearby.
Mahru nodded, watching as Keenu raced to the water and splashed the water on his face. As she joined him he was already reaching for his pack and grabbing for his bottles. Mahru did the same quickly, glancing around. I don’t want the hunter finding us this close to the house. Of course he would be keeping an eye at the water sources. Mahru thought quietly, dipping her water bottle into the clear mountain water. She tucked the filled bottle into her pack and stood back up.
Keenu got up as well, throwing the bottles back into his pack and swinging the straps over his shoulders. He glanced around, looking for the direction they needed to head in. Mahru pointed into the trees, which headed directly next to the creek. “We need to head this way until we can find the right trail.” Mahru lead Keenu alongside the creek, making sure the boy didn’t slip into the water.
Keenu glanced shyly at her. “Hey Mahru, what did happen last night? How did the hunter catch you anyway? Usually you’re so careful!”
Mahru looked away from his so he did see her face. “He followed me from the town. Somehow he knew I was cat and tracked me from Tanya’s place. All I was doing was talking. I don’t even know how he saw me!” Anger surged through her as she spoke, her eyes burning.
Keenu pressed against her to calm her. “I understand. It’s not easy being in with the humans.”
Mahru grunted. “Of course it isn’t. Trust me, if it was I would have you in public school right now and have myself a life while you’re gone!” She nudged Keenu, careful not to hit him too hard and knock him into the creek. Keenu’s eyes sparkled with mischief.
“That’s exactly why I’m here. My goal is to ruin your life and keep all the guys away from you!” Keenu couldn’t help but laugh, and Mahru had to laugh too. They continued side by side and before long they came across a familiar trail leading to deeper woods. Mahru nodded silently to Keenu and they made their way down the path. The ferns on either side were dense and dragged at their shoes, and the ground was springy from loose soil. Up ahead was a cliff, thick with vegetation. In the rocky wall, Mahru could just make out a door. The door was farther down, off the path so others wouldn’t find it by coincidence.
Mahru motioned to Keenu to stay put as she went over to the door. It was an old wooden one with metal decals decorating it, and a metal ring stood in the middle. Mahru grasped it and three times, paused, and knocked twice more. The door creaked open and green eyes peered out at them from the darkness. The eyes flashed with recognition and she opened the door wider.
“Mahru! My old friend. How long it’s been since I’ve last seen you!” A young female exclaimed, her eyes glimmering with happiness.
Mahru dipped her head and giggled. “Indeed it has Carissa! It’s been so long!”
Carissa peered behind Mahru at Keenu, who was a little ways away. “Come here, my boy!” Carissa called. “I haven’t seen you since you were slurping milk from a bottle!”
Keenu ducked in embarrassment and went over to her. He accepted the hug from her and stood back beside Mahru. Carissa moved aside the door and let them in. Inside, the air was cold and dark. A long hallway led deeper into the rock, and at the end a flicker of a candle lit the room. Mahru could just make out the brown and white coat of Carissa, being in her anthro form. Carissa led them down the hallway, her tail flicking with excitement.
“You’ve missed a lot around here!” She continued, looking back at them as they walked. “You’ll see what I mean when we get to the main room.”
Mahru tried looking past Carissa but she couldn’t see anything but the light. “I’m sorry we haven’t come back for a while. Keenu’s training has been distracting as well as other things at home. I’m glad it’s still up and running still here! “
Carissa nodded and stepped aside, revealing a finely decorated room complete with soft carpets, leather chairs, and TV set. Mahru looked in amazement at the change, surprised at the difference from what it had been before. And in the new light Mahru can see that the flickering was a fake candle, and a lamp stood next to the longest seat. Carissa was grinning at Mahru’s reaction, happy to see she approved.
“This is incredible! How on Earth did you manage to get such fine furniture?” Mahru asked in disbelief.
“My mate managed to get a job in the human world, and we found a wonderful deal!” She turned to Keenu and pointed towards another door. “Down that hallway to the left is the kitchen. Go get yourself something while Mahru and I catch up.”
Keenu nodded with excitement and raced for the door, transforming into anthro form as her went. Mahru smiled and sat down in one of the leather chairs, feeling the couch sink from her weight. She sighed with comfort and took off her boots. When she looked closer at Carissa she saw that her belly was more plump than usual. Mahru sat up quickly in surprise.
“You’re having kits!” She exclaimed in shock, her blue eyes wide.
Carissa blushed and looked at her stomach. “Yes, Raidyn and I are having our first litter!” She seemed ready to burst with excitement but Mahru could tell she was nervous as well. Mahru was curious which form she would choose. Usually, your litter would be bigger if you stayed as a cat, and if you chose the human form, like Keenu’s mother, the litter will be small if only just one. “Which form will you take for birth?”
Carissa shrugged. “I haven’t decided. Raidyn was thinking taking the form of a cat but I think either anthro or human would be best for the first child we have. I don’t want my paws full!” Carissa looked towards the kitchen door. “Would you like anything to eat? We have plenty of food here to eat.”
Mahru shook her head, feeling that the threat was more important to speak of now. “I think I must tell you why Keenu and I came to find you.”
Carissa leaned forward, her face serious now. “What happened? Is there danger?”
Mahru nodded solemnly. “Yes. Yesterday I ran into a hunter.” Carissa gasped but didn’t interrupt. “I haven’t seen any hunters in these parts in a long while. It concerned me, and I didn’t feel safe with Keenu and me living in our home until he has left. I’m planning on getting some details on him tomorrow at the Market. I have a few people I know who can give me some insight to what’s going on around here.”
Carissa nodded thoughtfully. “This is bad. I have to warn Raidyn to be more careful when he goes out for his job. I don’t like this news at all. These woods have been safe for decades! Just the thought of a tail hunter destroying that makes me sick! The fact that they would even dare makes me want to break something!” Mahru could hear Carissa scratch her claws across the leather of the couch. Her muscles were tight and her eyes burned. “Humans have always disgusted me but now they’ve gone too far!”
Mahru nodded, and when she heard the door creak they both went quiet. Mahru turned to look at the door. Keenu stood with two bowls of ice cream in his paws, his eyes bright. Mahru shook her head with amusement. Keenu went over to the couch and sat next to Mahru, handing her a bowl. “I thought you may want some too so I grabbed two bowls!” Keenu said happily.
“Thanks Keenu, but are you sure this second bowl wasn’t for you?” Mahru asked jokingly, picking up the spoon.
Keenu grinned and took a bite of his ice cream. “Of course!”
Mahru took a bite of her ice cream too. She realized that Keenu must’ve overheard their conversation. Keenu always knew when something was upsetting her, or how to make her feel better. But this time it was a little different. She felt uneasy now knowing Carissa was here alone most of the day, and with a hunter about in the woods it was no place to have children. Mahru ate her ice cream despite her uneasiness, hoping to avoid getting Keenu involved. She knew the young tom felt strongly about war and freedom, and wanted to do everything she could to keep Keenu away from what killed his father, Halcyon. Mahru could still remember Mai’s reaction when she learned what had happened to her mate.
Carissa looked around quietly. Her gaze returned to the two. “Once you two are finished I can show you to your rooms. I’m sure you’ll like to settle down before going to sleep tonight.” Carissa got to her paws and walked over to the couch. “I’ll take your bags if you’d like. I’ll take them to your rooms.”
Mahru shook her head. “No, no, you don’t need to. We can take it ourselves once we finish. I don’t want to cause any problems for you. We’re capable to take it ourselves, right Keenu?”
Keenu nodded and shoved a mouthful of ice cream in his mouth. “Of course we can! My bag’s really light and I already carried it this far. I’m almost done with this.” They both quickly finished off their snack and piled the bowls on top of each other. Mahru grabbed them both and took them into the kitchen. Inside there was a wood burning stove, a fridge and a few cabinets filled with food. On the far side there was a sink, and Mahru went over and rinsed out the two bowls and set them to dry in a rack next to it. When she came back out Keenu was already standing with his bag.
Mahru grabbed hers from the back of the couch and looked around. Carissa waved them towards another door beside the TV set and led them down a hallway with doors branching out on both sides of them. At the very end of the hallway Carissa turned into a room. Inside there were two different beds, both made nicely with soft covers and pillows. There were two lamps in the room, one by both beds. Keenu raced for the second bed and leaped on it, bouncing slightly as her landed. He patted the bed, his eyes filled with excitement.
Mahru sat her bag on the first bed and turned to Carissa. She dipped her head gratefully to her old friend. “Thanks so much for taking us in. This is truly very kind of you.”
Carissa shook her head. “Of course not! I would’ve taken you in no matter what! It’s so quiet around here now that Raidyn is working.” She went over and straightened out a wrinkle in the sheets. “I’ll be in the study if you need me. You should recall where it is from when you were here last.” Carissa dipped her head to Mahru and Keenu before turning out of the room. The door creaked and shut behind her.
Mahru flopped down on the bed with a sigh, pulling her shoes off. Her feet changed to paws and she lay back in the bed with exhaustion. Transforming was very energy consuming and Mahru was relieved that she was in a safe place. Keenu looked over at her from his bed, his blue eyes gleaming with amusement.
“You tired already?” His voice was mischievous and his eyes twinkled.
Mahru reached over and cuffed him over the ears. “Oh shush you stupid fur ball. I know you’re tired too.” She shifted to lean down on the pillows. “I’m guessing you heard our little conversation?”
Keenu nodded slowly. “I heard what you were saying about the humans. I know what you’re going to say though. I know how you feel about the war, but you know how I feel about it. The Ashkinians are low in numbers and they need new blood to help!”
“New blood is always spilled Keenu! Nothing can help the cause now. We have been fighting for hundreds of years, and we still haven’t won yet! They see us as clothing and prizes, collecting our tails for their own biding. Now the humans have guns and bombs, and our powers are becoming useless against them. You must realize joining the war is just a death penalty. Your father had to find that out before you were even born!”
Keenu flinched and looked down. Mahru realized what she said with a jolt. She reached out to Keenu but quickly pulled it back. There was no way she was going to take back what she said. Perhaps this would help the young tom to see what was so wrong about the war. She flung herself around and hung her feet from the bed. It was bound to be dusk by now, and Mahru’s eyes were already drooping with weariness. She could hear Keenu’s bed shift by his weight. She glanced back to see him going under the covers for the night, his body facing the opposite way. She could see a flash of his white tail and his ears flicked with annoyance.
Mahru sighed and lay down on her bed, ignoring the sheets below her. Her gaze was locked on the ceiling. She did what she used to do when she was a kit and stayed here. Above, the ceiling was cracked, and as she traced them she saw that they were just the same as back then. She traced the cracks for a while until sleep overcame her and she fell into a deep, troubled sleep.














Chapter Two
The light in the room turned on suddenly, shining brightly in Mahru’s eyes. She opened them slowly, looking back up at the cracks on the ceiling. She turned her gaze towards the door to see Keenu in fresh cloths closing the door as he left the room. Mahru sat up quickly. It has been awhile since she slept longer than Keenu. She jumped out of bed and quickly changed her clothes, stuffing her dirty ones into a separate pocket of her bag. She grabbed the bag and walked quickly out of the room, putting her arms through the straps.
She could hear pans banging from the kitchen and sizzling. The smell of bacon hit her nose and her mouth began to water. She peered into the kitchen to see a handsome brown tabby standing over the stove. “Raidyn!” Mahru exclaimed, running over and hugging him. Raidyn looked at her in surprise.
“Why I’ll be! It’s Mahru! It’s been so long I hardly recognized you!” Raidyn purred, hugging her back. “Carissa said there was an old friend visiting but I never imagined that you would be back here! How come you’ve come to stay?”
Mahru shook her head. “Now isn’t the time to talk about reasons, I just want to hear what’s been going on while I was away! Carissa told me you guys are having kids!” Mahru didn’t want to ruin the moment by telling him about the hunter. Once breakfast was over there would be plenty to discuss.
Raidyn nodded, his amber eyes gleaming. “She’s right! I’m really hoping for a boy too. That way Carissa can have a helper around the Inn while I’m away to work. She said she’d like to have only one kit for the first time so I agreed. Though I find a cat birth would be easier, I have to agree with Carissa on that one. I hope you stay awhile too! I know you have been a great mother to Keenu these past years.”
Mahru felt hot with embarrassment. “I did what I had to do to raise him. I’m sure you will be fine parents without me here.” She mewed, not wanting to stay long. She had her own life to live, and with Keenu growing up faster she had more of a chance to live her life freely. “I don’t want to be a burden to you two. I have a nice house at an ideal location and Keenu has grown accustomed to it. I’m sure you will do without my company while you raise your kit.”
Raidyn nodded slowly, tail dropping. “I guess you’re right. I know you and Keenu have other things to worry about, like his training and things. I was just hoping you could stay awhile.”
Mahru mumbled agreement and padded out of the kitchen. She wasn’t about to tell him why she wasn’t comfortable with staying. As much as she missed Carissa and the shelter, she would always feel guilty about being there. It was obvious that Carissa had forgotten, but Mahru remembered clearly. She had loved Raidyn when she was younger. Their relationship was hidden for the fact that Carissa was with him, but they would always meet together at night. One night Carissa walked in on them together. Mahru remembered that it was their first kiss, but as soon as Raidyn saw the look in Carissa’s face he ran after her to console her. Mahru was left standing there, her heart feeling as if it was going to break.
Mahru had been able to suppress the feelings she felt until they disappeared, but the memory of the heart break was lingering in her mind. Then she thought of where she would be now. She would probably be living here with Raidyn, expecting his kits any day and living a dull life with no one to talk to. That was not the life she wanted. Mahru opened the door into the living room to see Keenu sitting on the couch talking to Carissa.
“I’m sure we can come and visit once and a while.” Keenu was saying. “I’d love to play with your kits when they arrive! I know Mahru would too, if she’s not busy by the Market Plaza or foraging.”
Carissa looked over Keenu’s ears at Mahru. “What do you say Mahru? Will you come to visit sometime in the future?”
Mahru shrugged. “I don’t know. We’ll have to see some other time.” She sat down next to Keenu on the couch. “Keenu and I are going to the Market to see what’s going on with the hunter around here.”
Carissa cocked her head. “Are you sure you should take Keenu with you? It may not be safe for a young Ashkinian to wonder about a crowded square. If there is a hunter in the forest then there’s bound to be more at the Market. Wouldn’t it be safer for you to leave him here for me to look after?”
Mahru sighed. Carissa was right about that. The Market, though safe from being easily spotted from the amount of people, it was not completely safe from poachers. Reluctantly, Mahru agreed. “You’re right. Keenu will stay here until I get back. I’m going to leave after breakfast.”
The door creaked behind them and Keenu flipped around excitedly. Raidyn was carrying a large plate of bacon and another plate of buttered toast. The smell of the bacon filled the room and Mahru could see Keenu drooling. Raidyn sat down in another chair next to Carissa and placed the plates on a coffee table right between the two leather couches. Keenu reached for the bacon but Mahru held him back.
“Not yet Keenu, you have to wait.”
Keenu realized what he forgot and sat back guilty. Raidyn nodded to Mahru thankfully and closed his eyes. They linked hands and Raidyn cleared his throat. “We thank the spirits for giving us this prey to sustain us, and we thank you for sending us Mahru and Keenu to enjoy it with us. Bless the spirits.”
“Bless the spirits.” Everyone finished in unison. Keenu waited a second more before reaching for the food again. He took a piece of bread and three pieces of bacon before sitting back and crunching on the food. Mahru watched as Raidyn and Carissa both grabbed their share before she took her own. The bacon was still warm, but the toast had been sitting too long. She ate the cold toast quickly. The toast, though cold from staying out, was still delicious. She ate her bacon slowly, savoring the greasy meat. It had been a long time since she had a warm breakfast, and she was grateful to feel the meal warming her belly.
Keenu was finished quickly, licking his fingers happily. Mahru finished her breakfast and brushed the crumbs from her lap. She turned to Raidyn, remembering how she wanted to talk to him about the hunter. The tabby was sitting quietly, already done his food. Carissa was eating the leftovers, since she was feeding not only herself now. Mahru sat at the edge of the seat and looked at Raidyn. “About why I came here…”
Mahru explained to Raidyn about what she told Carissa. “The hunter knows there are Ashkinians in these woods. He won’t leave until he gets what he wants.” Mahru finished. Raidyn turned to Carissa, his amber eyes serious.
“This is serious. What are we going to do with a hunter around? It’s not safe to be here anymore!” Raidyn exclaimed. He looked troubled at the floor. “We’ll have to move somewhere else for the time being. Do you think your cousin Indigo would take us in? Just until the hunter gives up of course.”
Carissa looked uncertain. “It’s been awhile since I’ve seen her. I’m sure she’ll understand if we explain. But what will you do about your job? You can’t just not show up to work.” She pointed out.
Raidyn sighed. “I’ll have to stay here so I can provide for you and the kits.” Raidyn touched his nose to hers. “I promise I’ll be safe. There’s not need to worry about me.”
Carissa nodded quietly, her eyes sad. “I hate to leave you alone.”
“As do I,” Raidyn murmured.
Keenu nudged Mahru. “Are you going to leave soon? It will probably be sun-high soon.”
Mahru grunted. “Yeah, you’re right. Time flies nowadays.” Mahru got to her paws and situated her bag. She pulled down her shirt farther and slipped on some shoes. Carissa got up and showed her to the door. Carissa stopped her before she opened the door, blocking it.
“Mahru, I just want you to know that you are welcome to stay for as long as you want here” Carissa murmured, looking into her eyes. “I know why you left long ago. I don’t want Raidyn to be the reason you stay away. I -“
Mahru cut her off. “Raidyn is not my reason for me wanting to stay away anymore Carissa. I left before because of him, but I only stay away now because of everyone’s safety. I need to teach Keenu in private, like everyone else. He doesn’t have much left, and I need to teach him not to be too reliant on others. It’s not you I want to avoid, don’t worry. I’m happy for both you and Raidyn, and I hope we can meet other times. I just can’t stay long in case they find us. I just want to keep you safe.”
Carissa dipped her head, clearly not agreeing with her. “I guess if you find it is safer for Keenu and my future kits. Just remember that you can trust us with your life.”
Mahru rested her hand on her shoulder. “And you can trust yours with me. But I must go. Please, take care of Keenu while I’m gone.”
“With our lives,” Carissa promised with her head high. Mahru dipped her head to the brown and white she-cat and shape-shifted into her human form. She slipped on her hat and Carissa stepped aside away from the door. “Be safe!” Carissa called as Mahru stepped out of the cliff’s door. Mahru didn’t look back, following the thin trail away from the shelter. She set a brisk pace, not wanting to waste any time on the way.
Mahru headed through the trees, thankful for the suns heat which escaped though the branches above. The canopy was thinner ahead, and the trail opened more. Mahru started to pant, and slowed her pace a little to a brisk walk. Mahru could scent burning wood ahead, and she could just make out the shape of the small wooden shack in a small clearing. A young male and his mother lived there, deeper in the woods than any other humans. Sebastian, the male running the house, was a good friend of Mahru, accepting the Ashkinians living in the forest around him. His mother however, had no idea that Mahru was not human. She could hear the crack of wood, and knew Bash was splitting wood.
She hurried forward and walked around the house. The house was a small cabin, the roof covered in green moss and the ferns growing thick along the sides of the house. A small stone path led to an old door. On one side, a small stable with a single horse stood right next to the house. The house was surrounded by tree stumps for many meters, the clearing growing every few months. Mahru could just make out the shape of Bash from where she was. His dark brown hair was thin on the sides but fluffy on the top. He was wearing a loose button down shirt and baggy jeans with boots.
Bash raised the axe and swung down with force, hitting the block of wood dead on, the pieces flying either way. Mahru cleared her throat, announcing herself to him. Bash turned around, his green eyes wide. He set down his axe and jogged over to her. Mahru could feel the heat radiating from him. “Mahru! I didn’t expect you to come by this early in the week. What’s up?”
Mahru shrugged. “I’m just heading to the Market to ask some questions.”
Bash looked at her skeptically. “If you say so. Would you like some company? I need to take some of this firewood to a buyer in the town.” He gestured to the stack of wood behind them.
Mahru hesitated. She wouldn’t mind the company, and with a horse and carriage it would be faster getting there. Mahru eventually nodded, thankful for the offer. “Sure! I’d love some male company besides Keenu for a while.” She nudged him jokingly. “Would you like some help loading firewood?”
Bash shook his head. “It won’t take long. Why don’t you go get Sade ready to carry the wagon?”
“Sure. I’ll bring her over when I’m done.” Mahru ran over to the stall beside the cabin and opened the door. Inside was a female white and brown paint, snorting and stamping her hooves on the ground. Mahru grabbed her lead and walked the horse out to a post. “Good girl Sade. I’ll be right back with your saddle and bridle.” Mahru went back to the stall and grabbed the saddle and blanket and hauled it back to Sade. She laid the blanket on her and strapped the saddle firmly on Sade. She cleaned her hooves and brushed her coat around the saddle. She led Sade over to the chopping block.
Sebastian was finishing loading the wood on the rulley when Mahru met up with him. Sade snorted, her hooves clopping on the wooded ground. Bash took Sade and led her over to the front of the rulley and strapped her on. He patted the horse and walked over to Mahru. “Thanks for setting her up Mahru. I’ll be back. I have to let my mother know I’m heading to the Market.” He ran over to the back door of the house and called in. “Mother! I’m heading to the Market to sell the firewood!”
Mahru could hear a muffled call from inside the house. “Be back before sundown!”
“I will Mother!” Bash replied before running back over to the carriage. He put his hand on Mahru’s shoulder. “You can either sit up with me or sit in the back with the wood.”
Mahru glance at Sade. She was never a fan of horseback riding. Mahru sighed. She wasn’t too thrilled to get a bottom full of splinters either. Besides, she trusts Bash enough to sit up with him on the horse. If she did eventually get tired, she could always go back to sit in the wagon. “I’ll sit up with you. Just remember how much I hate riding horses.”
“Just hold on then!” Bash said jokingly, hauling himself onto Sade. He held out his hand for Mahru, and when Mahru grabbed it he yanked up with surprising strength and waited for her to settle on the saddle behind him before shaking the reins and guiding Sade around the house to the trail, which was wide and clear of debris. Mahru held onto the sides of the saddle awkwardly, hating the way her legs swayed on either side of the horse’s flank. Bash looked back at her with amusement. “I won’t let you fall, don’t worry.”
Mahru grunted. “I’d like to see you try to catch me when I do.” When Mahru looked around at the forest around her she felt herself calm a little, feeling a rhythm in the horses stride and finding strange comfort in the sound of the wagon wheels bumping along the dirt road. The breeze was cool, shaking the leaves above and taking an edge off the heat. Bash was looking around too, a smile on his face and his eyes bright. Mahru found it strange how much he reminded her of an Ashkinian, so in sync with nature and kind to all creatures. He is the only human she had met that was so caring and open. If only there was a way to change humans into Ashkinians, that way Bash would be better off with people like himself.
Bash glanced back at her to see her staring at him. “What are you thinking about?”
Mahru straightened, she ears pricked and her tail stiff. “Nothing!”
“It doesn’t look like it. No one just stares into space without having something on their mind.” Bash pointed out, a grin on his face.
Mahru felt herself getting hot with embarrassment. “I was just thinking about what it would be like if you could change your species…”
Bash looked thoughtful for a moment. “That would be great! Ashkinians could change to humans and protect themselves. I didn’t see you as the human type though, Mahru.”
“What!” Mahru lifted herself from the saddle out of shock, her voice shrill. “I meant you! I would never even think of being a human!” She sat back down cuffed him over the head. “You must me brainless to think that.”
“Ow!” Bash yelled, looking back at her with laughter. “What makes you think I could be one of you anyway? I have no special qualities.”
Mahru looked at him in bewilderment. “What do you mean? You have all the perfect qualities that an Ashkinian has!” Mahru looked down at the saddle, feeling embarrassed by her outburst. Bash looked back at her with surprise. “I’m just saying that you seem more like an Ashkinian than anything else,” Mahru went on. “You love nature and truly care about living things. You don’t even care I’m not human! Besides, everyone has a special talent, even if they don’t know it. But I must say, you do have a talent for wood chopping. Perhaps your spirit is a nature Ashkinian.” Mahru teased, looking back up at him.
Bash was silent for a moment. Mahru could see the thoughtfulness in his eyes, but couldn’t tell what he was thinking. Finally, he spoke, his tone questioning. “You’ve told me about the spirits before, how they have the powers to bring life to earth, to grow trees and produce animal life. Is that all the power they have?”
Mahru shook her head, feeling pride well up inside to be able to explain the spirits of her ancestors to Bash. “The spirits don’t only control life. They hold the power of all the Ashkinians and they unleash it on the world to create things they believe will benefit our kind. They are the cause of earthquakes, mudslides, waves, and breezes. They control everything in this world, and they are fair to all creatures, because they created all things equal. Some of us say they even created humans, but I believe that something else had. I don’t believe the spirits could create such harm on the earth. I don’t believe they could make anything so selfish and cruel to others.”
Bash nodded slowly, taking in the facts Mahru had said about her ancestors. He suddenly stopped the horse, pulling on the reins. He hopped down and held out his hand for Mahru to do the same. Mahru was flustered, confused on what his idea was. She jumped down, grabbing Bash’s firm hand for support. Bash was looking at her like he never has before. Mahru’s eyes widened with confusion. Bash, still gripping her hand, took Sade’s reins and led her to the side of the trail. He tied her to a tree quickly and turned back to Mahru.
Mahru was watching him curiously. What he was doing was beyond her, and she was interested in what he was doing. Bash led her into the trees, not too far to lose track of the carriage, but far enough to be enclosed in a thick growing clearing of ferns. Bash sat down onto the ferns, and Mahru did the same. Bash was starting to scare her. He was never short of words and for the first time since she met him he wasn’t saying anything about what he was doing.
“Tell me, Mahru. How can I become one with the spirits? I want to experience what you are talking about. I want to be a part of what you’re talking about.”
Mahru was taken aback. Never had she thought a human would want to believe. She thought quickly, trying to remember the old tradition that was taken place at every birth of an Ashkinian since the very beginning. “We need water.” Mahru said suddenly, “Water and fine white sand. Do you know where you could find that?”
Bash nodded, his eyes bright. “There’s a stream close by. Just a little ways back from where we came. I’ll go get some!” He ran back to the carriage to grab containers and raced down the trail. Mahru looked around, sniffing the area in search of a birds nest. Eggs were an important part of the mixture. She looked up, smelling bird eggs almost instantly, just above her head. By the smell of it, it was a crow’s nest, there being at least four or five eggs inside. Mahru began to climb up into the tree, leaping high with confident bounds. She gripped the hard bark of the oak tree, and cautiously crept towards the nest, now partially visible in the dense green leaves. The nest was finely made, sturdy and thick, perched on a durable branch, able to hold her weight without shaking.
To her relief, the mother crow was nowhere in sight. Carefully, she gripped two eggs in her hand and, slowly, made her way down. With a graceful leap down, she landed perfectly on the ground. She looked around, and spotted a perfect rock, flat with a slight curve, somewhat in a bowl shape. She cracked the two eggs onto the rock, weighing out the whites and with satisfaction saw the egg yolks fall into the curve. As soon as the yolks settled, she heard the underbrush crunching behind her. She turned to see Bash returning, his breath labored, with his hands filled with water and sand, a perfect white.
“Thanks Bash, bring the materials over here and sit on the other side of me.” Mahru instructed. When Bash settled down, Mahru poured in some of the water and mixed in the sand, and the rock was suddenly covered in a white paint. “The paint is to be made from the objects of the earth. This is a recipe passed down from the very beginning, and has been used by many. This is a serious ritual, Bash. Are you sure you wish to join our faith and become one with the spirits?”
Bash nodded, his eyes solemn and his breathing slow and controlled. There wasn’t any hesitance in his eyes, and Mahru knew he was serious about this. Mahru was honored to give him his spirit name and help him find his way to the right path chosen by the spirits for him to follow. She didn’t know of any other human joining the faith, and she hoped she won’t be punished by adding a human to their ranks. Mahru dipped her hand in the paint, and held it up and watched it drip. “Sebastian, you are named before the spirits today. Your spirit is strong, and you have come willingly to join the ranks of my ancestors. You are human, but your soul speaks as loud as an Ashkinians. You have proven your worth and commitment today to the Ashkinian faith, and I now present you to the Ashkinian faith.” Mahru dipped her hand back into the paint and made two thick dashes below each eye, and a long line from his forehead to the bridge of his nose. Like Mahru had said before, Bash was very much like a nature bender. Because of that, she had given him the animal mark. She couldn’t mistake the pride that was glowing in her friend’s eyes, and she felt pride as well. “Bash, do you promise to follow the Ashkinian ways, and to respect the spirits and their creations around us?”
Bash straightened, and with a strong voice he said, “I do.”
Mahru nodded in approval. “Then from this day on, you must give your thanks to the spirits when you feed from their creations and show you are grateful to them for the life they give you.” Mahru dipped her hands back into the paint and dotted beside his eyes and drew a line from his bottom lip to his chin. “From today until you join the spirits in the stars above, you are in touch with your Ashkinian spirit, and are protected by the spirits that watch over us.”
Bash and Mahru were quiet for a long, staring into each other’s eyes. Finally the two got up and Bash washed off the sacred marking on his face. They silently made their way back to the carriage, which was still there with everything intact. They climbed onto the horse and continued toward the town. But Mahru only had one thought on her mind, and that was not of the Market. Bash’s eyes still lingered in her mind, and the thought of his deep green eyes warmed her from ears to tail.