Raising the goblet to her lips. Trinity tilted back her head, allowing a small stream of wine to enter her mouth. She held in there for a moment as she determined it’s taste. Dull. It was nowhere close to the fine aged wine they had at The Capital.

Reluctantly Trinity forced herself to swallow before setting the goblet back on the table, her fingers tracing the markings that were etched into its sides. God was she bored.

Trinity desperately longed for the amusements of The Capital City. Fine jewelry and clothes, exquisite food and drink and arrogant nobles squabbling over family estates and rights of succession. All things which Trinity found endlessly amusing.

While her distaste for the noble families of The Capital were clear, she couldn’t help but be entertained by their in-fighting. She even made it a game to fuel such conflicts whenever she could. There was something to be said for the subtle yet blatant manner that nobles fought their political feuds. Most of the time though Trinity found herself ignored by such people, her association with Hunters helped to make her a pariah within those circles. She didn’t mind though, in fact she prefered it that way. It allowed her to sit back and watch from afar, all while savoring the expensive spoils of higher class living. If only she could savor such spoils now.

Trinity allowed her mind to wander, imaging herself partaking in the luxuries of the high class. Her fantasies alleviating her boredom. Just as she felt herself free of her situation, a voice rose up tearing her away from her thoughts.

“Madam Trinity, would you care to join us, or are there more pressing matters on your mind?”

Trinity scowled as she opened her eyes, focusing once more towards the war table set before her. Glancing across the table she spotted a large map of the region with small set pieces placed throughout, three of which were larger than the rest. Quickly deducing that nothing had changed, she turned her sharp gaze at the three men sitting across from her.

Viceroy Octus Seratine, the plump and pompous envoy from The Capital, Master Arlen, the elderly and wise Keeper of the Hunter’s History, and of course Jerrick, the current Grand Master of The Order.

“Well?” Jerrick continued. “Is there something you would like to share with the table?”

“If you must know, I was just wondering why my shipment has yet to arrive. I mean it’s just wine, how long can it take too...”

“Trinity!” Jerrick’s stern voice echoed across the room.

“I’m right here dear, no need to shout.”

“I don’t have the patience for your games today.” Jerrick shot back. “We are in the middle of a crisis and the last thing I need is for more of your bullshit.”

“Jerrick, dear. If I may interrupt.” Trinity said.  “I would be more than happy to waste my time and play war council with you, but if you want me to do that then least you can do is get better swill than this.” Trinity lifted the goblet of wine, as to exemplify her point.

She could see by the expression on Jerrick’s face that she had just crossed a very dangerous line. She smiled a faint smile to herself. Oh how she loved it.

“Your insubordination-” Jerrick began.

“Insubordination?” Trinity repeated before he could finish. “Now dearie, be careful. Using big words like that without knowing the meaning is just bad etiquette. Insubordination would imply that I’m defying your authority. Well that simply not true, i’m denying its very existence.”

Jerrick’s face reddened as she knew she had pushed him perhaps just a bit too far. Reclining back in her seat, Trinity followed her arms and awaited his fiery rebuke with a coy smirk. At least the meeting was finally about to become interesting. As Jerrick opened his mouth to speak, Trinity waited with baited breath already preparing mentally on what kind of insults and quick taunts she could respond back with.

“Madam Trinity. Grand Master. If I may?” Octus interjected before Jerrick had time to go off. “Let us reach a compromise. Madam Trinity once this meeting has concluded I swear that I will personally see into your delayed shipment. Until then I humbly request you wait as we turn our attention to the matter at hand.”

Octus gave Jerrick a reassuring wink, as The Grandmaster took this time to breath and resettle himself.

Trinity glanced between the two men as she considered Octus’s proposal.

“Fine.” She relented.

Octus smiled, finding pride is his accomplishment, but Trinity refused to let the matter end so quickly.

“Octus.” She said, her tone of voice quickly wiping the smile from the man’s face. “Just make sure it reaches me this time. If it doesn’t and I find out you had something to do with it… well I’ll show you the ‘curse’ I was telling you about the other day. The one that causes rotting of male genitalia. You remember that conversation I’m sure.”

Trinity finished by pointing under the table, motioning to the area between her legs. Octus’s face paled at the gesture.

“Can we return to the matter at hand please...” Jerrick sighed, having finally subdued his anger in place of annoyance.

“Yes, quite. What was it we were talking about again?”

“If you had been paying attention at any point of this meeting Trinity, you would know that we are in the midst of three corresponding giant attacks. It’s very rare we have to deal with so many at once.”

“Rare, but not unheard of.” Trinity stated, fighting to find a way to stay engaged in the conversation.

“If this were an isolated incident I might share your dismissal of the situation but, the rise in giants invading our lands has been unusually high in the last few months. The Kingdom growing worried and is demanding answers. Answers we frankly don’t have.”

“I fail to see where my attendance is need in all of this.”

For a moment Jerrick almost shot back in anger, but keeping a reluctant level head he continued on as normal.

“We need a solution.” Jerrick said. “Your years of studying giants and their magic gives you insight into their culture that most of us can’t even hope match. Any thoughts you might have on the current situation would be greatly beneficial to understanding their motives.”

Trinity sat and pondered for a moment.

“I do have one theory.” She said.

“Yes?” Jerrick inquired.

“It’s just a theory.”

“Anything will help.” He continued to insist.

“Well… they may be just as frustrated with the lack of good wine as I am.”

A silence fell over the room as Jerrick looked her over with a blank expression. Octus looked between the two mortified as Master Arlen sighed at what was to come. Trinity kept herself from snickering as she kicked her legs playfully and counted down in her head.

3… 2… 1…

“OF ALL THE FUCKING-”

Before Jerrick’s outburst could develop much further, the door to the war room burst open. A young messenger garbed in the traditional hunters attire of cured dark leather armor and a green camouflage cloak ran into the room. Catching his breath he stood up, straightened himself before the council.

“Pardon the intrusions m’lords.” He paused before noticing Trinity’s presence. “An’ lady. I’m afraid I have urgent news.”

“Report.” Jerrick commanded, his eyes still locked on Trinity.

“There has been a fourth giant sighted approaching from the east.”

Jerrick swore loudly as he turned his attention to the messenger. “

Send another platoon to intercept it. Get the word out, if there are any free hunters still out in the field, order them to engage the giant at once!”

“That's not all my lord.” The messenger continued. “Scouts have reported that the giant… the giant can use magic sir. Not only that, it’s a master of the forbidden power.”

A silence fell over the room. Jerrick and even Trinity seemed unprepared for this news. It was Arlen, who had remained mostly silent throughout thus far that spoke first

“We haven’t had a giant like that enter our kingdom since The Great War.” Arlen spoke, his voice heavy.

“Your claim that this giant is a master of magic is a serious one. How can we be sure that he actually is?” Trinity asked.

Her tone showed that she had taken a interest in this latest development.

“A small group of hunters engaged the giant on sight. The scout who had discovered the giant reported that as they made contact lighting rained down from the sky, turning the men to ash. He reports that it was instantaneous and that the giant didn’t hold any weapon or even muttered a single spell.”

“I’m impressed. Our scouts are more observant than I give them credit for.” Trinity said.

Jerrick leaned forward in his chair. His mind was at work. His eyes studied the board in front of him, desperately searching for a way to address the new threat. Trinity noticed his growing frustration and smiled. This is exactly why she even bothered to attend these things.

Trinity stood up and addressed the messenger.

“Send for Zeke and Barron at once, I plan to intercept the giant and will require their assistance.”

The young hunter looked to Jerrick who was silently contemplating Trinity’s request. He eyed her skeptically, before turning back to the hunter and nodding his approval. Without another word the hunter saluted them and departed out the door. The room was still as Trinity wrapped her fingers around the goblet, and quickly downed what remaining wine it held.

“Is the giant really so dangerous that it will take all three of you to kill?” Jerrick asked uneasy.

“To kill?” Trinity repeated. “No. I alone with a handful of distractions could accomplish that. A giant like this is powerful to be sure, but with that power comes just as much arrogance. Finding an opening would be child's play. Now bringing it back alive…”

“Alive!” Octus exclaimed. “That's… thats... madness!”

“For once I agree with the Viceroy.” Arlen said. “A giant of this caliber is too dangerous to be kept alive.”

“Indeed.” Trinity agreed. “But he has something we want. Information.”

With that statement the three men went silent as Trinity realized she had their attention.

“While we could simply capture one of the other three giants, they would provide little use. A giant with with this level of control over magic is certain to belong to a higher class. A noble most likely. A giant in a position to know why so many of these invasions have been happening as of late. In other words, just the giant you’ve all been looking for.”

Trinity turned to Jerrick, his attention remained focused on the map in front of him.

“Are you certain you can do it?” He asked.

“With my skill and knowledge, Zeke’s mobility and ranged support, and Barron’s sheer power and strategic mind, I guarantee we can. Then once he is subdued I will see to it that he is contained.”

Jerrick drew in a deep breath as he stood from his seat. Folding his arms behind his back, he turned to Trinity and gave a nod of approval.

Turning back to table he examined the pieces littered across the board. He reached for another large piece on the side and placed in on the map before reaching again for a smaller purple figure. He placed the purple figure before the recently placed giant piece. Jerrick scanned the rest of the board in deep contemplation.

“We will need to decide what to do with the other giants in the meantime.” Jerrick announced. “With any luck Barron and his group have already dealt with one of them. After that we can have any spare hunters with him converge on the second.”

“And Zeke?” Trinity inquired.

“Zeke is the problematic one.” Jerrick moved his hand over a green figure which was accompanied by three small pawns. “Zeke is currently accompanying three recruits on their first mission against a female giant. Removing him would leave just the recruits to deal with the giant alone.”

Trinity walked to Jerricks side as she examined the board. She reached out and picked up one of the pawn, turning it over in her hand.

“Since when did Zeke start babysitting recruits?”

“It was his request that he joined them.” Jerrick stated.

“There is a certain hunter among them.” Arlen proclaimed, lightly tapping a finger to his temple as she struggled to recall.

“A hunter that Zeke personally recruited himself.”

Arlen closed his eyes as the frequency of his tapping increased.

“The three hunters are Kai, Nia, and Grey. Grey is the one that Zeke recruited, they seem to share a history with one another.”

“Yes.” Trinity nodded knowingly. “I recall now.”

She placed the pawn back on the table.

“Zeke brought him to me, convinced there was something special about him.”

“And?” Jerrick eyed her curiously.

Trinity smirked. “Let’s just say Zeke doesn't share my magical expertise.”

She paused considering the pawn that she had just placed.

“Just another throw away piece if you ask me.”

”That’s remains to be seen.” Jerrick shot back, she had apparently touched a nerve. “Regardless if you need Zeke that means we'll be sending three recruits to face a giant with no support. If they engage her they will most certainly die.”

“You can send reinforcements when they become available, but we need Zeke for this to work. Capturing the spell caster should be our highest priority.”

Jerrick couldn’t help but agree with her logic, though he knew there would be consequences he also knew they needed this giant. Faced with a difficult decision all he could do was relent.

“Alright, send for Zeke if you must. But also send orders that the recruits are not to engage until support arrives. We can’t afford losing them just yet.”

Trinity nodded. “A wise decision. I’ll see to it.”

Without another word Trinity made her exit, leaving Jerrick, Octus and Arlen to confer how to prepare for the captured giant.

Making her way down to the courtyard Trinity pulled up the hood of her cloak as she stepped outside. Approaching the stables she found the same messenger from earlier preparing a horse for departure. She relayed the orders that he was instructed to give the other messengers, as to have word reach the other two as quickly as possible.

As she did so her mind couldn’t help but think back to the hunter that accompanied Zeke. Grey. His name was Grey.

Over a year ago Zeke had brought him to her insisting that he had some sort of hidden potential, much like himself or Barron. Trinity sensed nothing at the time and hadn’t given it a second thought since. From what rumors told her he wasn’t anything exceptional. The only thing of interest was that he was recruited by Zeke, though he wasn’t the first man Zeke had brought back with him after a long journey. It was just a surprise that this one ended up becoming a recruit instead of sneaking out of a bedroom in the early morning after. Yet despite everything Trinity couldn’t help but be fixated on this particular hunter. Like not all was as it appeared to be.

“Well I suppose it doesn’t really matter.” Trinity muttered aloud to herself. “I doubt he’ll still be alive much longer ”

 

It was a feeling unlike anything else. Nothing in Diana’s life could come even close to matching the sheer amount of ecstasy she felt in this moment. Watching the frantic humans scurry about at her feet brought out a new sensation of power she never knew was possible. It was intoxicating.

Pillars of smoke began rising out of the partially ruined homes that surrounded her. At some point a fire must have started inside and was spreading as the wreckage grew, but it didn’t bother her, in fact the smokey smell only helped to further pique her appetite.

Diana lowered herself onto all fours as she peered through the window of a nearby building. Inside she spied a small couple cowering in the corner, hoping that the giantess would pass their home if they just stayed inside. They were wrong of course.

Diana’s hand broke through the front of the house, grabbing the two frighten humans. Catching one within her palm and the other between her fingers, she pulled the terrified couple kicking and screaming into the streets. Raising them to her face, she opened her mouth and inserted one of them inside.

As she savored the first human she felt her hold on the other slowly slip away, as the human’s struggling successfully broke them free. Mouth full Diana watched as the human dropped out of her hand and onto the ground.

She continued to play with the human in her mouth as she watched the other; the female of the two, try to run away. Diana watched with predatory intrigue as the human woman rose to her feet sobbing and frantically began to run away. Tilting her head back and sending the man in flailing to the back of her throat, Diana began to pursue her fleeing prey. Before the human woman had the chance to put any distance between them Diana reached out her hand and grabbed her, putting an end to the attempted escape. She could feel the woman’s fists pounding her fingers in a desperate attempt to break free but to a giant like Diana it only felt like a small pleasant tickling sensation which aroused her predator instinct.

Without hesitating Diana popped the woman into her mouth. Closing her lips behind her, Diana worked her tongue, caressing around the curves of the woman’s body and taking time to savor the unique flavor.

There was something about wild humans that made them taste far better than the captive humans sold in the city. Captured humans, especially those that were bred in captivity, lost that zeal that made the wild ones taste so good. They resigned themselves to death, they fought less, were more submissive, lost that spark of survival that humans clung so dearly to. Wild humans still had that spark and the taste reflected it.

Tilting her head back Diana swallowed, sending the human woman to reunite with her friend as well as the rest of the humans she had eaten in this village. Diana closed her eyes enjoying the futile kicks and screams as woman slid down her throat. With a satisfied sigh, she patted her stomach, letting the sensation of the struggling humans wash over her.

She was glad she had gotten the chance to do this. Normally there were restrictions in place that kept giants from entering the human kingdom. The official reasoning was that the government feared that if giants attacks became too frequent the humans would retaliate by starting another war. Diana wasn’t a history buff but she recalled that the humans apparently held their own in the last war between their kinds; even though they were magically inept. To make matters worse there were now rumors of humans that could use magic, causing a slight stir in the giant community. But Diana didn’t believe the rumors, she suspected the real reason for the regulations were not because of fear of human retaliation, but fear decreased human population. A drop in human population would be a drop in a valuable resources and afterall capturing and breeding humans still proved to be inefficient compared to capturing wild ones. Besides Diana wasn’t the only giant that understood that a wild human was a tastier human.

But that had all changed recently. The royal council had decreed that ventures into the human kingdom were free to anyone who was willing to assume the risks. Nobody knew the exact reason for this change; though Diana herself speculated that the reason was because the human population was growing too quickly and this was their way of keeping it in check. But in the end it didn’t matter what the reasoning was, all that mattered was she was here now and she was loving every second of it.

Catching a glimpse of movement from the corner of her eye, Diana spotted a lone woman who was hoping to sneak past her. Meeting her eyes directly, the human knew she had been caught and started to run. Diana smiled. She was planning on stopping for the day, but what was one or two more before she left.

Crawling forward on her hands and knees, Diana’s hips and shoulders crashed into the sides of buildings as she pursued her prey. The woman didn’t get far before Diana was upon her. Reaching her hand down Diana flicked her finger into the woman's back, causing her to fall forward. Lying on the ground the human woman barely had time to look up as Diana’s hand loomed overhead. Tears welled in her eyes and shortly after started to stream down the side of her cheeks. The woman shut her eyes and clasped her hands together as she began praying for help.

Before Diana could grab a hold of her a small sharp pain stun into the back of her hand, causing her to pull back instantly. Examining her hand Diana saw the fletching of a small arrow sticking out of her skin.

“What the…?” She muttered.

Before Diana could further assess what had happened, the woman took the giants hesitation as an opportunity to get back on her feet and run. Diana ignored the pain in favor of her escaping prey. Reaching for her once more another sharp pain struck her in the index finger. Once again recoiling her hand, Diana saw another arrow, this time lodged within her finger tip. Standing up Diana pinched the arrow from her finger, pulling it out like a splinter.

“Alright, who did this?”

Scanning the buildings and roads surrounding her Diana spotted her assailant. A human clad in a green cloak stood at the opening of a nearby alleyway with a bow in their hand.

“There you are.” She said.

Diana took her first step towards the cloaked human, who wasted no time in retreating back into the alley. Diana quickened her pace, peering down the same alley the human had fled she watched as they ran in a straight line towards the open road on the other side. Catching up quickly Diana reached down to grab them, only to be caught off guard as the human gracefully stopped, turned their heel, stepped out of the way of the passing hand, and quickly continued running, making a left onto the main road.

“Clever little thing.” Diana admitted, as the human ran out of sight. Her eyes turned to the series of roofs that belonged to the buildings on the next street over. “But not clever enough.”

Diana brought the palm of her hands towards the rooves, causing them to crack and break spilling the debris into the street on the other side. Stepping over the buildings, Diana spotted the rubble that lay in the street and as the dust settled she smiled to see that her plan had worked.

With their leg pinned under the rubble, the cloaked human laid on the ground, coughing, as they struggled to pull their leg free from under the debris. The hood of their cloak had fallen back revealing the human to be a woman with short rose colored hair. Once more lowering herself onto all fours Diana closed in on her prey.

“Good try, but not good enough it seems.” She said as she licked her lips. The woman remained silent, still struggling in an attempt to free their leg. Diana’s smile only grew.

“I take it by the cloak that you’re supposed to be a hunter, is that right?”

Again the woman stayed quiet.

“Wonderful! I’ve never had hunter before!”

Diana was ecstatic, she never thought she would be given an opportunity like this. Wild humans were rare, but most certainly not impossible to obtain, but hunters were on a whole different level of rarity. Like a choice cut of steak. Humans tasted better when they still fought to survive, hunters not only fought to survive but fought to attack back. The wonder of what that might do to the taste was so alluring Diana couldn’t help it as her mouth began to water.

Reaching down eagerly to savor this new experience, the huntress gave up her frantic attempt to break free and instead turned to face down the giant, one final attempt of defiance before she met her end. But the hand never reached her, for a voice called out, halting the Diana’s approach.

“Touch her and your life will end where you kneel giant!”

Diana’s head turned to see where this voice had come from. Standing on a roof; parallel to the buildings she had just destroyed, was another hunter. A young man in similar attire as the woman, with short blonde hair and fiery green eyes, a sword held in his hand and pointed directly at her.

Smoke from the burning buildings rose over him, with small glints of still burning ash filling the air between them. The way he stood, with stoic confidence enforced his fearlessness, and he looked down at her with murderous intent.

Diana felt a chill run down her spine at the mere sight of him. Everything nerve in her body seemed to scream that this was no ordinary hunter, something about him was special, unlike the hunter woman that laid trapped before her. This hunter was dangerous.  

 

 

It took every ounce of control for Grey not to begin panicking.

Nia was cornered, Zeke was gone and now Grey found himself faced with a giant and no plan. Zeke had given them EXPLICIT orders not to engage her, but to wait for support. It was Kai who first proposed that they should ignore orders and go ahead, confident that with Zeke’s training they didn’t need further support. Nia had been against the idea opting instead to wait as instructed. Grey had been the tie breaker.

He knew they had to be cautious, knew how dangerous it would be, knew that if they were to succeed they needed a plan. He knew that at any point things could go wrong, and now that things were falling apart. Worst of all Nia was the paying for it.

Grey tore himself from his thoughts, as he realized the gian’s attention was still fully on him. She was starting to grow curious due to his inaction, all the while Grey just struggled to keep his sword hand from trembling. He needed to say something.

“Your carnage has lead you to trouble giant, I trust you know who I am?”

Her expression switched back to one of concern. “No…” She hesitated. “...who are you?”

“I am a legendary hunter feared by many of your kind!” Grey said going with his first instinct. “That right, I am a member of The Trinity!”

Really laying into it, aren’t you?

Once again her expression changed, but this time confusioned.

“The who?”

Grey stood dumbstruck. After his previous encounter with giants he had assumed that all of them knew of The Trinity, but he had to continue the bluff.  

“We are the most deadly hunters alive. Using mystic powers to-”

“Oh! You mean the magic using ones.”

Once again her response had thrown him off. He lowered his sword to the side.

“So you do know about us?”

“Well.” The giant began. “I know that it’s all bullshit.”

“Excuse me?” Grey blurted at a complete loss.

“Humans can’t use magic. Everyone knows that. Sure i’ve heard the rumors but it’s probably all some flashy trip.”

“I can’t ever catch a break with these girls can I.”

The giant shifted her position, moving slightly closer to inspect Grey, her lips forming into a smile. Grey was losing control of the situation and fast. Just as he readied himself to retreat, movement from below caught his attention.

Emerging from the ruins of one of the buildings behind the giant, Grey saw another hunter making their way to Nia. It was Kai. Grey knew that if he ran now he would be leaving them open. He needed to buy enough time for them to get away.

“Bullshit is it?” Grey shot back, quickly recovering character. “Do you really want to take that chance?”

“Sure.” The giantess responded faster than he had anticipated.  “Go on.” She continued. “Show me your magic.”

“Well she has me there.”

With Kai and Nia right at her feet, Grey needed to do something.

Lowering his head and flashing a smile Grey began to chuckle aloud, slowly at first, but eventually growing it into a harty almost robust laugh. His laughter suddenly stopped and in a quick fluid motion he swung up his sword, pointing it skyward. The sudden movement caused the giantess to jolt back; despite her supposed certainty..

“Alright.” Grey started. “But don’t say I didn’t warn you.”

The giantess watched anxiously as Grey swung his sword in a downward arc. Instinctively she flinched and closed her eyes, a gesture Grey couldn’t help but find amusing.

Opening her eyes however the giant was met with something she didn’t expect. Grey had swung his hand down, but not in an attack, but instead into a low bow. His head tilted up as his eyes met hers, his body still held in the curtsy.

“I surrender.” He said with a smile.

She giant looked at him completely speechless. Grey stood back up to full height.

“Congratulations, you’ve called my bluff. I must say of all the giants I’ve come across you are the first to see past my facade, I am truly dealing with a giant of a greater caliber than most.”

While still trying to avoid making direct eye contact, Grey could only imagine what Nia and Kai were thinking of his ploy. He had just given away his bluff as if it were nothing, to them his move must have seemed like a death wish, but unlike them Grey had dealt with giants once before, and he had learned a lot from that previous encounter.

“Heh, well it was rather obvious.” The giantess proclaimed with a hint of pride. “The idea of humans using magic is just ludicrous after all, I’m surprised the trick fooled anyone to begin with.”

Grey rested his sword before him, using it to steady himself as he visibly relaxed, all helping to make himself seem less threatening but at the same time keeping the sword unsheathed.

“I applaud you madam giant. I knew eventually I would run into a giant such as yourself. One clever enough to catch me in my own lie.”

The giantess looked at him skeptically. “You seem rather okay with this?”

Grey feigned an expression of alarm.

“Why yes, here allow me explain, I am a hunter of honor; of sorts anyway. I will be front with you, where I lack in physical prowess I make up for in intellect. Thus I concocted a trick to fool giants, but I knew it wouldn’t last. I knew that one day I would meet a giant who would catch me unprepared, one that I could not fool.  

“I’ve spent many sleepless night wondering how I might react whenever that day were to come, so ultimately I decided to make peace with it. I would recognize any giant that could figure me out as my intellectual superior. It’s only right that I take comfort in being bested by someone better than me, and accept whatever fate decides to throw my way. But I must say, I never could have imagined that the giant who would catch me would be so beautiful.”

“Perhaps that was a bit much.”

Grey was certain he had overdone it when he noticed the giant eyeing him extremely skeptically.

“Right… so why should I believe a single word of your story, you claim to be so smart, wouldn’t you sooner try to trick me and escape rather than accept your own fate?”

“Well that would be the obvious course of action. But you just pointed it out, didn’t you?” The giant nodded her head, seeing what he was getting at.

”If you were clever enough to see past my previous trick, I knew you would also be clever enough to keep me from escaping. As far as I can tell, you’ve caught me in a checkmate, might as well enjoy what little time I have left. Besides it’s not everyday I get to speak to such a beautiful woman.”

“I suppose that makes sense.” The giant muttered.

“Still gullible.”

The giantess’s expression changed into a playful smile. “You know, you're turning out to be pretty entertaining for a human. Keep this up and I might just keep your around for a little while.” She said in a suggestive tone.

“Keep me!?” Grey didn’t even think to hide his surprise. “I… I’m afraid I don’t understand.”

The giant’s smile grew. “Let’s just say...” Her eyes looking over his body. “... it’s for personal reasons.”

He didn’t need any more context.

“I… I...” Grey began stuttering.

“Don’t act all innocent.” The giantess continued, seeing how flustered he had become. “You think I didn’t notice your little attempts at flirting. A bold move, but I get it. Hey, for a human you’re not too sore on the eyes either. I’m sure I could get some use out you. Maybe even a couple. No promises though, it all depends on when my appetite comes back.”

The giant moved her face in closer, her eyes glossed over with a seductive spark as she slowly licked her lips. Grey’s face reddened deeper then he thought possible and instinctively took a step back. The giant’s eyes examined him over once more.

“What’s the matter? You shy all of a sudden?”

“This-” Grey stuttered trying to find the words. “-is just new for me.”

“What? Never been with a lady before?”

“No!” Grey shot back defensively. “Just never one of your… ‘stature’.”

“Well.” The giantess began. “Once we’ve returned to the city I’ll make sure that you become very acquainted with a woman of my... ‘stature’.”

“I’m going to die.”

Luckily Grey didn’t have to play around with that notion any longer. Movement from below caught his attention. Using Kai as a crutch, Nia was once again on her feet. It was evident her leg was in bad shape, but she could still stand, albeit weakly.

Kai looked up to Grey’s position giving him a thumbs up. Nia was free, now they just needed to get to safety. Grey just had to keep the giant distracted a little longer. From there it would just be stalling until reinforcements arrived, and by the giant’s new apparent interest in him he was sure he could find a way to stall her long enough for that. Despite how badly the whole situation had gotten, things were starting to look up.  

“What are you staring at?”

And like that, it all falls apart.

Grey realized his mistake immediately. While checking on Nia and Kai, Grey had taken his eyes away from the giant for too long. Before he had time to come up with a answer, the giantess turned around and was surprised by what she saw.

 

 

 

Diana turned to find the human woman she had been ignoring was no longer pinned, but even more than that was accompanied by a new human. This one with black hair and a slightly tanned complexion, but most interestingly he was wearing the same uniform as the other two.

Diana smiled. Things just kept getting better. Not only had she had her fill of humans from the village, but now she had three hunters ripe for the pickings. She would help herself to the two in front of her, and save the talkative one for later. He had another use he could serve.

Reaching down for the two below her, the dark haired man quickly threw the female to the side. He reached for the sword at his hip, but Diana didn’t waste any time. Catching him between her fingers his arms were pinned as she lifted him off of the ground. Diana took note of the huntress he had tossed aside. She had fallen was struggling to get up. Diana paid her no mind, with her injuries she wouldn’t get far. Besides Diana didn’t have any intention on wasting time with this hunter. She opened her mouth bringing him closer to her face, getting ready to savor his flavor. Until he shouted something that made Diana stop.

“Grey! Now!”

Diana stopped what she was doing and quickly turned back to The Hunter on the roof. She was overcome with dread as she realized the mistake she had made in ignoring him.

The blonde haired hunter had leapt off the roof, sword clenched in both hands, readying to strike as he fell forward towards her neck.

 

 

 

Grey held his sword high as he fell towards his mark. The giantess turned to face him giving him just the opening he needed to strike. All he had to do was leave a clean slice across her throat and it would be over. This was the moment he had trained for, the moment he would finally become a true hunter.

As the giants face came into view something was different. He was no longer looking at the same giant who was terrorizing this village. Instead she appeared to be someone, someone Grey had not seen since his two years of training. A face that caused his heart to stop as it looked up anguish of being betrayed.

“Jule?”

It was her, clear as day. Her green eyes, black hair, cute petite nose and light complexion. All of it looking back at him in confusion on what he was about to do. Grey was knew that the moment to strike was now, but as it came his muscles tensed up and as he fell past missing his mark completely.

Grey barely had time to snapped back to reality as caught himself landing in a roll as he hit the ground. Kneeling in a daze he shook his head, realizing what just happened. Looking back at the giant the face he found that the face of Jule was gone and in her place was once again the giantess he had intended to kill.

The giant’s eyes were wide as her free hand reflexively reached for her throat. Tracing her neck with her fingers, the giant let out a relieved sigh.

“That was a little too close for comfort.” Turning back to Grey, she continued. “I think it’s best I take away that weapon.”

As her hand drew near, Grey lifted his blade up defensively, keeping the hand at bay. The giant hesitated, but only for a moment before proceeding with little concern.

“Of all the times to get cold feet!” Kai called out, still within the giant’s grasp.

Opening his mouth Kai bit down into the giant’s hand, managing to draw blood in the process.Crying out in pain, the giant dropped him as he landed on his feet.

“You little shit!” The giant cried as she tried to grab him again.

This time she didn’t get the chance as Kai drew his sword, wielding it in both hands. Kai swung his sword in a vertical slice as the giant’s hand drew near. Pulling back the giant cried out, as blood ran down the tip of her finger. Kai turned to Grey, the edge of his sword dripping with the giant’s blood.

“Don’t just stand there, we have too-” was the last thing Kai could say.

Time seemed to slow down as Grey watched what happened next. The giant swung her hand as the back of it made contact with Kai. He offered little resistance as the momentum sent him flying through the air, colliding with a nearby building.

Making an indent in the brick foundation, Kai’s body hit the ground, his eyes vacant, his face still holding onto pained look he had as he hit the building. His body slumped forward, motionionless. Grey expected him to cry out, to scream, move, wince, anything. But as the moment passed it became clear he wouldn’t. Not anymore.

The giant appeared to share Grey’s surprise, as she brought her finger over to poke him, to no response.

“That's disappointing.” She said as she continued to poke Kai’s body. “You’d think being a hunter he would’ve put up more of a fight.”

Grab his sword Grey charged forward, as he let out an infuriated scream. He had no plan as he charged her, just a anger infused instinct to avenge his fallen friend.

“I’ll give you a fight, you bitch!” Grey cried out in his charge.

That was his mistake.

The giant turned and saw Grey’s charge well before he had a chance to strike. Half handedly and almost without thought, Grey found himself knocked off his feet, the giant effortlessly pushing him to the ground. Grey fell back, but refused to surrender. Keeping his grip on the sword Grey maneuvered into a roll, quickly regaining his footing. He pushed forward again, readying his sword for another charge. The giant no longer seemed amused by his petty attempts and brought her finger down catching Grey in a powerful flick, throwing him off balance and tossing the sword from his hand.

“That's enough of that.” She said.

Grey regained his balance, but was still caught up in the shock of how quickly he had been disarmed. Two years of training and it appeared nothing had changed.

Grey could feel the giants fingers wrap around him, but couldn’t summon the strength to resist them, as his mind continued to react to his simple defeat. Years of training and knowledge to prepare him to take down giants, all wasted in a single moment.

Grey felt himself lifted into the air, as he was brought before the giants face. She looked him over again, this time somewhat disappointed.

“I have to be honest human, I was excited about keeping you around, but after that display I’m having second thoughts.”

The giant paused as she remembered the female hunter. Looking around she spotted Nia, using the wall of one of the nearby buildings as support, desperately trying to limp away. Smiling the giant caught her with little effort.

She held the two hunters up to her face as she inspected them. Nia who struggled slightly but was too weak to put an actual fight, and Grey who seemed to have just given up entirely.

“Well isn’t this a sad sight. If you're truly the best humanity has to offer, than our kingdom’s more paranoid than I thought.” The giant’s gaze turned skyward as she began to ponder.

“You know, after all that excitement I think I worked back up an appetite. Sure this village was filling, but I think I still have room for at least two more. Seeing as how your friend’s dead, I’ll just have to make do with you two.”

Grey felt a shift as the giant opened her hand slightly, transferring Nia to the same one that held him. He felt an increased pressure as the giant tightened her grip this time pushing the two of them together.

“Aww, you two make a delectable couple.” The giant laughed. “I wonder if I can swallow you both at the same time, wanna give it a shot?”

While Grey couldn’t see Nia’s face, he could hear her voice whimpering at what was to come next. Feeling a wave of humid air wash over him, Grey knew instantly what that was.

The giant’s lips came into view as the she prepared to take both of them into her mouth. Her jaw widening with an audible ‘ahhh’ as her throat twitched in the back. Grey was given full view of the giants mouth, from her lips leading to the back of her throat. Her tongue rolled out underneath them, as they were slowly placed on top, the giant’s grip released. Grey noticed as Nia tried to sit up, but he knew better. Before she had the chance to situate herself, the giant’s tongue pulled them in, her lips sealing shut behind them

Nia sat up, her breathing heavily.

“Grey!” She cried, grabbing onto his arm. “What do we do?”

Before Grey could decide on a response ,he found Nia tossed on top of him as the giant’s tongue flipped, an action that quickly put them into an uncomfortable position.

The tongue began to move over their bodies as the giant let out a delighted moan. Her mouth shifted, tossing them as she spoke.

“You hunters are absolutely delectable!” She proclaimed, her thunderous voice assaulting their ears.

As the giant’s tongue continued to work on their bodies, Grey heard Nia’s frantic pleas.

“No.” She sobbed. “No. No. No. No. No. No. No.” She repeated as they were thrown about inside the mouth.

Grey could only imagine what she was going through, the sheer terror she must be experiencing. Doing the only thing he could think of Grey wrapped his arms around her, catching her by surprise. She violently thrashed in his arms, but Grey refused to let her go. Using as much strength as he could muster he rolled her around, putting himself between the giant’s tongue and her.

Nia continued to fight him, but he expected this. The tongue worked across his back, traveling across every inch of his body. To Grey this feeling was familiar, something he had already experienced before. Defilement, humiliation, weakness. Grey hated it, but he wasn’t going to allow Nia’s final moments to be subjected to same humiliation. Not if he could do something about it.

Each time the tongue shifted, Grey would shift with it. He refused to let the giant have her way with Nia, and each time Nia continued to fight in his arms, yet he refused to let go. The two of them were thrown around within the mouth for what felt like a never ending experience, but eventually like all hardships, it did. Grey laid with his back on the giant’s tongue, Nia on top of him both of them drenched in saliva that stuck between their bodies. Nia slowly began to calm down and while her sob’s softened they did not stop.

“W-why did it stop?” Nia managed to asked through hoarse voice.

Grey didn’t respond. He didn’t need to as the giant tilted her head sending the two of them sliding towards the back of her throat. Their bodies drenched in the saliva, gave no resistance as they slid to the backward. Grey felt the the giant’s esophagus grip onto his legs, as it pulled them down further. It was a slower process than Grey had remembered, and this time much tighter with Nia’s body pressed up against. The pressure the muscles forced on them was enough to steal the very breath from Grey’s lounges. He could tell that she was struggling to get the both of them down, something Grey took a small comfort in.

“I hope you choke on us you bitch.”

Finally peristalsis took full effect, as the speed in which the two hunters descended picked up. All hope that the giant might choke to death ended as Grey and Nia found themselves deposited into a chamber, splashed into a pool of unknown substance.

Grey managed to stand up. Surrounded in darkness and drenched in a slick viscous liquid, the first thing he realized was that they were not alone in here. Weak cries and begging screams paraded the chamber, as the giant’s previous victims fought to find a way out. Behind their voices he ambient sounds of the stomach squelches and groans answered them as the liquid and chamber shifted slightly.

Grey heard coughing emerge from his side, as familiar voice rose up.

“Grey?“ He heard Nia call for him.

“I’m here Nia.”

Grey felt two wet warm arms wrap around him, as Nia buried her head into his chest. Grey hesitant on what to do before deciding to place a hand to comfort her.

“Grey… what are your orders?”

Grey was taken aback.

“Orders?” He repeated at a loss. .

“Orders? What are your orders?” she said almost pleading.

“I…”

“There has to be something we can do!” Nia practically screamed. “Isn’t there?”

“I…” Grey began, searching for anything that might comfort her.

“I don’t think there is.”

 

 

 

Diana let out a content sigh. She laid back and rubbed her belly, enjoying the fullness the two hunters added.

Between them both hey proved difficult to swallow, but now that they were down it was well worth the effort. She just needed to remember to pace herself nextime, and there would be a next time. After she had gotten back to the story, and became the envy of all her friends, she would return. Maybe bring a few people with her.

Rising to her feet, Diana stretched lazily as she prepared for the trip back home. If she hadn’t been full before she was now. It was time she called this a successful trip and head back. Maybe she would even grab a human or two for the trip back.

As she readied to depart, Diana noticed a small faint glimmer out of the corner of her eye. Turning her head she was met with a blinding green light.

 

 

 

The giant's body collapsed to the ground, as debris and dust flew into the air upon impact. There was no fight, no struggle, just an end to the carnage.

Lowering his bow Zeke relaxed, a slight breeze settling around him as the effects of the spell began to fade. From his perch on a nearby hill, Zeke could make out most of the remains of the village. The hill had provided him good vantage point, high enough for him to not worry about the treeline, but close enough that he had ample sight on his target. Not that he needed much, it was often more difficult to miss a giant than hit one.

Stringing his bow across his shoulder, Zeke began to walk hearing the sounds of hurried hoof beats approaching his location. Five hunters on horseback approached him. Drawing their steeds to a halt, a hunter on a white horse approached before the rest. He was an older man especially by hunter standards. Chestnut brown beard and hair, with signs of graying, a look most hunters never lived to have.

“Master Zeke.” The man began. “We arrived as soon as we could but-”

“The threat’s been dealt with.” Zeke stated. “Proceed ahead and when you reach the village make sure to cut her open. If we move quickly we may be able to save any survivors she has stewing in her gut.”

“-and you sir?”

“I’m going ahead. See what kind of damage we’re dealing with.” Zeke turned to leave before stopping, turning to add another order. “There are supposed to be three recruits in the area. When you find them come get me immediately.”

The oldest rider nodded before turning to his fellow hunters and riding off, the group making their way towards the town. Zeke watched them leave before swearing quietly to himself.

A faint green aura began to emit from his body, as he quickly took off in a sprint. The wind around him picked up, almost carrying him with each step. His body felt lighter as each stride took his further than the last, quicking his speed in the process.

“Once more, that witch wasted my time.” Zeke said to himself. The current of air acting violently as he spoke.

Zeke could feel the drain the spell was having on his body. Despite the great power he wielded, continued use often proved to be exhausting. The magic didn’t so much make running any less difficult, as it allowed him to cover more ground quicker. That in addition to the focus it took to maintain its effects, as well as the stamina to summon it. To make matter worse Zeke was already pushing himself as was. Not only had he used his magic to help reach the town, but then immediately upon arrival he charged one of his most taxing yet deadly powers on the giant. A spell that combined magical energy and manipulated air movement to increase the speed and momentum of a single arrow, allowing for an impact devastating enough to pierce even through a giant’s skull. It as a power that had killed more giants than most could ever hope to match, but the toll it took on him was great, even after years of practice.

Yet Zeke couldn’t allow himself to rest, not yet. Not until he was sure that his team was safe. After all, they had grown to mean a lot to him over the last two years.

Kai had been the first unexpected recruit thrown on his lap. After Zeke had announced he would be training someone, The Order allowed it under the condition that he saw to the training of Kai as well. Zeke reluctantly agreed.

The Hunter Order’s most popular form of recruitment was through stayed sentencings, meaning that most Hunters who joined The Order were criminals in some shape or form. Kai was not exception, although his case was a bit more unique.

Having been a part of a bandit group, Kai was already an excellent sword fighter when he was recruited. On multiple occasions the bandits he ran with came into blows with local guards, militia, and even mercenaries. Each time Kai and his group came out the victors. That was until the King’s Guard got involved. Many in Kai’s group were slaughtered, and those that survived were sentenced to death. It was reported that Kai didn’t stop fighting even after they had already lost, taking a few knights down with him. Ultimately he was overwhelmed, before being knocked unconscious. The local authorities wanted to see him hang, but The Hunters couldn’t let such skill go to waste.Kai was given an offer, a stay of execution if he joined them. They expected him to decline, but he couldn’t have been happier with the deal. The prospect of killing giants appealed to him more than meeting a noose, and so Kai was handed to Zeke.

Kai’s talent for combat was unmatched by the other recruits but his attitude needed work. He arrogant, confrontial, a real “do it himself” kinda guy. A attitude that would get any normal hunter killed within seconds. Though Zeke couldn’t fault him too much, he saw a lot of himself in that, except Zeke actually had the power to pull it off. It took almost the entire first year to get Kai to warm up to the idea of teamwork, and even that his ego was far from fixed, but he began showing great signs of improvement.

Nia was a woman Zeke had personally taken under his wing. A woman recruited into the The Hunters was a rare occurrence. She had been charged with an assault crime and chose joining as her punishment. It was a charge Zeke had been skeptical of. Nia was a far different person than Kai, joining with almost experience that made her qualified for the task.

While women joining were rare, they were not unheard of. This was evident due to Trinity’s status within The Order. The Order had a rule that it would take any able bodied individual that wished to serve, regardless of age, gender, or social status. It was a rule created during a time when even women and children would do in the fight against giants.

Zeke had taken it upon himself to train her. Teaching her how to hunt, fight, set a camp, ride a horse, relay messages, any and everything that would prepare her for the field. Zeke was overjoyed when Nia began showing talent with a bow. It may have been a personal bias, but Zeke couldn’t help but nurture her training in that direction. It was reminiscent of older times, back when Zeke had trained the other children he was around how to hunt with a bow. Just like he had with the last member of the group.

Grey the person Zeke had personally chosen to join the hunters, and the only person left Zeke had left from his life before The Hunters. Grey’s unusual recruitment had made him a curiosity among The Order, but after the initial wonder faded everyone seemed to write him off. Grey was agile, crafty, and sneaky thanks to spending years as a thief in The Capital, and while his survival skills were rusty he picked them back up rather quickly. But Grey had one advantage that few recruits hads. He had already dealt giants before. It was this reason Zeke remained calm as he approached the village. Grey was a smart, knew how dangerous giants where. He knew that confronting one without the appropriate support would be suicide, and years of living in the The City streets had instilled within him a natural sense of caution. Zeke knew he had little to worry about, but it did not stop him all the same.

As he arrived on the edge of town, the green aura began to fade as he slowed to a jog. He wasted no time Zeke began his investigation of the attack. Billows of smoke rose to the air and the debris destroyed buildings littered out into the streets. This village had been the last to receive support, while hunters focused on dispatching the other giants.

Making his way through the desolate town Zeke couldn’t help but feel a tinge of guilt for what had happened. Things wouldn’t have escalated to this level if he had just arrived sooner, he was a Member of The Trinity after all. He prided himself with that title, knowing he had the power to end any giant’s rampage as soon as it began. But seeing the carnage this giant had brought only reminded, despite his power it was never enough. Giants would always continue to consume human lives.

Walking down the empty streets Zeke was able to spot the giant’s body. She laid in the middle of town, her body having crushed what buildings were around her when she fell. Zeke approach her without caution. He stood before the now lifeless body, examining her face and the large bleeding hole on her forehead that was about 2 feet in diameter. A clean shot. He recalled how felt after his first kill. There was something about standing next to the lifeless body of such a large and powerful creature; knowing that he had been the one to take it down. It brought forth an intense sensation of both pride and satisfaction, realizing the power he wielded. But that feeling had long since left, as know he felt nothing, just another giant dead.

The sound of hooves on cobblestone alerted Zeke to the arrival of the other hunters. He turned away from the body, intent to let the hunters do their work when something caught his attention. It was a body, back hunched against the stone wall of a nearby building wearing a clock with the same greenish gray mesh that was iconic amongst The Hunters.

Something about seeing the body made Zeke’s blood run cold. There weren’t supposed to be any Hunters here… except...

As the riders approached, Zeke ran to the body to confirm his fears. Approaching Zeke recognized the body as Kai. He had received a large blunt force to the back of his head as blood dripped down strands of long dark hair. Whatever trauma he had sustained broke his neck instantly, causing his head to slump forward in an unnatural fashion.

One of the hunters approached from behind as Zeke inspected the body. He muttered something but Zeke couldn’t make out what as is mind began putting the pieces together. What was Kai doing here? What happened to him? When did it happen?

Then he froze as another question enter his mind. Where were Grey and Nia?

“Sir? Is everything all-”

“Cut her open...” Zeke muttered.

“I’m sorry? I didn’t quite catch that, what did you-”

“I said cut her open!” Zeke snapped.

The hunter stepped back startled, but didn’t hesitate to get to work. Zeke watched as he pressed the tip of his sword into the giant’s abdomen, creating a incision. The other hunters got to work in joined him, another using their sword to assist in the cutting while the other two helped pulling back the flesh. Zeke hoovered behind them anxiously.

It didn’t take long for them make progress, cutting a sizable opening into the giant's stomach. One of the hunters threw aside his weapon as two others assisted in holding open the hole. The first hunter knelt towards opening, calling inside.

“If there are any survivors, please make your way towards me!” He called within.

Zeke heard only faint voice rise up in response, the loudest of them sobs of anguish. He couldn’t have guessed how many people were in there, though as the hunters began assisting those still alive, the gluttonous nature of this giant became clear.

The hunter assisted by pulling each survivor that came his way out of the giant’s gut, another worked behind him to assist those that needed it. A woman broke out in tears as one of the hunters helped her to the ground, a man muttered under his breath as his mind still processed the horror he had experienced, a couple held one another in their arms, each reassuring that they were now safe.

Zeke paced more anxiously with each survivor that was pulled out, none of which he recognized. Usually it warmed his heart to see the faces of those he had saved, especially in situations as bad as this one, but with each new survivor his fears for what happened to his team grew worse. Just as Zeke began suspect the worst had happened, one of the hunters pulled up the limping form of a red haired woman, one Zeke recognized at once.

“Nia!” Zeke cried out, running to her side.

She was in a bad shape, struggling to stand at all as Zeke supported her. He carried her a few feet from the giant’s body and set her down, kneeling for support. She disoriented as her eyes adjusted to the light.

“Nia it’s alright. It’s me, Zeke.”

Her eyes flickered with recognition as she looked his way.

“Nia, I know a lot is going on right now but I need to know, where is Grey?”

Before Nia could repond, a voice called out from behind.

“I’m right here.”

Zeke turned as Grey emerged from the hole. Zeke got to his feet rushing to his friend. Relieved to see him alive Zeke smiled, though Grey did not share his enthusiasm. In fact Grey did not even look at him, instead keeping his eyes cast at the ground wearily approached.

“Grey, what happened” Zeke asked. But once again the voice that answered was not the one he expected.

“Yes Grey, what happened indeed.”

Each of the hunters stood at alert as a man of large stature with graying peppered hair approached the site. He wore hunter’s garb like the rest, but unlike the others his armor utilized metal plating in place of the hardened leather, and his cloak was dark crimson instead of the grayish green most of the other wore. Accompanying him were a group of more hunters, all walking in an organized formation, stopping and standing diligently for orders.

“Barron... you sure didn’t take long.” Zeke stuttered.

“After the mess you left us with Zeke, there wasn’t much that needed done.”

Barron walked passed Zeke surveying the immediate area. The hunters already here formed a salute as he passed.

Barron walked directly towards Grey who quickly corrected himself by mimicking the salutes of the others. Barron stopped and took one glance at him, as he stood diligently covered in stomach bile.

“Hunters!” Barron suddenly called out.“I need five men to go out and search for survivors. Check all the houses but be wary of structural damages. Some of these buildings are holding on by threads.”

He turned to the group that had previously been working on the giant’s body.

“Did you rescue all those inside?”

“We have sir.” The eldest among them answered.

“Good. Go take care of the wounded, if there are any that are in critical condition prepare to take them back to The Keep.” Barron then turned his attention to Grey and Nia. “That includes the two of you.

“Hunter Nia. In your condition I don’t expect much, but where you can assist in the preparation to return home. Hunter Grey, I expect the same.”

Both nodded without hesitation.

“Go forth then.” Barron announced, as the hunters departed to carry out their duties.

Grey quickly made his way to assist Nia but before he could Barron placed a hand on his shoulder.

“Know that once things have been taken care of, both of your actions will reviewed from today. Do you understand?”

“Yes sir.” The two answered back hesitantly.

“Dismissed.” Barron said before walking away.

Zeke watched the them depart, Grey helping the unstable Nia to her feet and slowly departing. Zeke decided he would need to speak with them another time as he quickly turned to chase after Barron.

“What the hell was that?” Zeke questioned sounding a little more than irritated.

“The incident today is a problem and will need to be addressed.” Barron answered without stopping.

Zeke taken aback by Barron’s response reached his hand and grabbed him by the shoulder. Barron stopped almost immediately as hunters working in the area stopped seeing what Zeke had done.

“This ‘incident’ is Trinity’s fault! If I had been here like originally planned none of this would’ve happened!”

Barron’s sharp gaze turned to the hunters watched them, all of whom turned quickly back to their task as they felt Barron watching them. Seeing that they were once again working he turned to face Zeke as he spoke.

“The heavy loss of life here is a tragedy, but it’s not what i’m referring to. As hunters we are accustomed to these kinds of casualties. No, the incident I am referring to seems to be the rise of insubordination, more specifically your earlier actions.”

Zeke froze as he realized his mistake by being too fiery. Barron continued to walk, motioning Zeke to walk with him.

“Zeke you’ve been apart of this organization for over ten years now, and of those ten you’ve been one of the Trinity for about six. Since that time you’ve been no stranger to neglecting orders. Always following your gut instinct, if i’m being it’s something I admire about you. I’ve come to trust your instincts and even rely on them at time, because I’ve always known you acted with humanity’s best interest at heart. But lately I’ve started questioning your loyalties.”

“So if the issue here is me why are you putting Grey and Nia on review?”

“You’ve had a hand in training both, so their actions can be seen as an extension of your own. The team sent here today were given explicit orders to wait for backup before engaging, orders they failed to follow. To be honest there actions are the least of my concern. My main concern were what you did today. Not only were you reluctant to follow out an order that required your assistance, but you went ahead and acted against such orders just so that you could return to the previous task at hand.”

“Trinity didn’t need all three of us, she could could have dealt with the giant and-”

“You  slew the giant The Council ordered us to take back alive!” Barron shouted, once again catching the attention of the other hunters.

“That giant was too dangerous to be kept around, don’t tell me you didn’t want to just kill the thing either.”

“What I want is of no concern. What mattered was we were given orders to bring it back alive, and you knowingly went against those orders, all because you wanted to get back to your team.”

Barron took a deep sigh before continuing.

“Ever since you recruited Grey you’ve been distracted Zeke. I know the two of you share a past, and I have been lenient about it up till now, but your actions today costed The Order dearly, and i’m afraid so long as Grey’s around this kind of behavior will continue. Today was the first day they saw combat, and not only that, but it was a day we needed you at your best. Your actions only confirmed what I’ve long since feared. So long as Grey is in the field, you will always be distracted, and that is something we cannot afford. Especially with everything that’s been going on.”

Zeke remained silent for a moment before finding the words to respond.

“If that is the case, then why even bring him before The Council?”

Barron looked at Zeke, their eyes meeting for the first time since their conversation began.

“While my thoughts on the matter stand, I shall allow Grey to speak for himself. We shall determine whether or he is an asset or a liability.”

Barron’s attention returned to his surroundings as oversaw the work of the other hunters.

“You may attend the trial Zeke, but due to your bias you shall have no say in it. That is all.”

Barron continued to walk, as Zeke slowed to a stop. He made no formal gesture, or proper acknowledgement of his dismissal, instead he simply turned and walked the opposite direction.

It was preposterous for Barron to insinuate that his judgement was clouded. Zeke had always done what was right for The Order. Six years of dedication had proven that. As far as he was concerned Trinity was the one with poor judgment, to think she could actually capture a giant that much power alive and interrogate them for answers? It was too dangerous, and in the middle of a multiscale invasion it was ludicrous to even attempt it. To insinuate that he was the one with poor judgement. Never in his years as a hunter had he ever hesitated to...

Zeke paused as a thought crossed his mind.Remembering a time where he did waiver in his duties. A time over a years ago when he failed to uphold his oath as one of The Trinity. It was the day he found Grey captured amongst the giants. Zeke began wonder if his judgement really was slipping...

No. It wasn’t. He had to remember there was a good reason he failed to uphold his duties that day. Amelia the Giant Queen. It was his job as one of The Trinity to slay her if she ever returned. She had, yet she was nothing like the monster The Order made her out to be. There was something very wrong about the entire situation, something that bothered Zeke for the last two years. If Amelia, the horrid monster was not as The Order described, then what else had they gotten wrong… or perhaps hiding from him?

Zeke allowed these thoughts to tease him. What could it all mean. There was so much he still didn’t know, didn’t even think to ask until recently. They were questions for another day, for now Zeke had to return to his team. He would find his answers, but for now they needed him more.

 

Everything was hazy. Grey could hear, see of feeling anything. Where was he? What had happened? How did it get this way?

As questions continued to muddle his thoughts, his eyes began to adjust to his surroundings, picking up the faint shadows of movements. Though blurry, his vision slowly returned to him as he began to recognize the face of a woman looking down at him. She was familiar as was her beauty, though he wasn’t sure how he knew her.

Something was clearly upsetting her, as Grey could see her mouth was moving, frantically trying to utter something, though he couldn’t understand a single word she spoke. Whatever it was it must have been important, because it appeared she kept repeating the same thing over and over again. If only he was able to read lips, then maybe he might understand.

As the woman grew more frantic in her attempt to speak, Grey noticed tears form in corner of her eyes, welling until they eventually spilled out and streaked down the sides her cheeks. Something about seeing that made Grey upset. She had far too pretty of a face to be crying like that. What he wouldn’t do to see her smile instead.

Grey’s vision began to darken once more, as the woman’s crying face slowly faded from view. He didn’t want to see her go, and as his vision was left in darkness his mind refused forget her face. He could still see her so clearly, but even the memory of her started to slip away . Soon he found himself alone, surrounded by darkness as his thoughts began to scatter, all the while still fighting to remember that woman's face.

He didn’t want this. He wanted to see her. He wanted wake up. He needed to wake up. He had to…

...wake up.

 

 

 

Grey shot up in a cold sweat. His hands were shaking as he gripped at his chest. Taking a moment to steady himself, he took in a deep breath and exhaled. It was only a dream.  

“Another one?”

Grey turned to find Zeke sitting in a chair besides his bed. He was dressed in casual attire consisting of a light green tunic with tan leggings. Looking around Grey realized he wasn’t in his bed at the barracks, but was in Zeke’s room.

Adjusting to the unfamiliar surroundings Grey worked up a response.

“Yeah.”

“You know the other men complain about how often you wake up at night. Even Kai began mentioning it to me before he...” Zeke paused, deciding to change the topic.

“Which one was it? The man in the cage again?”

“No, this was new. I was lying on the ground, barely unable to move or see when I notice Amelia crying over me. At least I think it was her.”

Zeke reclined back in his seat. “They’re becoming more frequent.”

Grey nodded. “What do you think it means?”

“Not sure, but there must be something to it, I mean they started happening when…” Zeke paused, lowering his voice before continuing. “...she returned.”

Grey knew how cautious Zeke was when it came to the subject of Amelia. Speaking about what had happened had become a taboo topic, especially when back at The Hunters Keep. Zeke was always concerned about being overheard, and often refused to discuss anything concerning the event two years prior. For Grey who had joined The Order to find answers, the secrecy had often been agonizing to deal with.

Not a day had gone by in the last two years where Grey hadn’t thought about what happened. Being captured by Jule, rescued by Zeke, meeting Amelia. He had wanted answers, yet Zeke made him swear to keep what happened quiet. Grey wasn’t an idiot, he understood why. He knew the importance of keeping secrets, especially with around The Order around.

What little information Grey had obtained in his time among The Hunters came from The Order’s history. The Hunter Order had been established in a time when humans and giants were at war. A time in which all humans feared the name of Amelia. Amelia  was Queen of the Giants during that time and her power and ferocity were things of legends, even among her own kind. Her war had cost of the lives of thousands of humans, being the single greatest catastrophe in recent memory. The Hunter Order was a faction of humans trained in tactics for the specific purpose of slaying giants. But even with The Order’s overall successes, humanity still could not hope to match the giant’s single most powerful advantage. Their magic.

The War unofficially ended after the supposed “death” of Queen Amelia. Various rumors concerning her death popped up around that time. The human lower class believed that she was slain by a nameless warrior who sacrificed everything in order to kill her, according to giant legends many believed she had perished due a stillbirth that proved fatal. The most accepted theory is she simply became ill during the midsts of her campaign and succumbed to it. The only certain thing was that upon her death the throne was inherited by her niece. Apparently giant’s had a matriarchal monarchy; something Grey remembered Jule explaining to him during their encounter.

Even after the thrones succession there were people that still believed Amelia was somehow alive. After all in the entirety of recorded history there was never a giant said to be as powerful as her. This lead to a theory held by a select few that she had never truly died, but instead used her magic to keep herself alive and that one day she would return. This was a rumor The Hunter Order believed possible, and if that fateful day were to arrive she would need to be killed before she could bring about a second war. This was the objective of given to those highest in command of The Order, and the mission to be undertaken by it’s most elite hunters, in this case The Trinity. It was also the order Zeke chose to forsake.

“What do you think these dreams mean?” Grey asked after a moment.

“I’m not sure, some people claim dreams can carry prophecies of the future, but I wouldn’t jump to any conclusions.”

Zeke ran his fingers through his hair, at a loss.

“Honestly this is one of those rare occasions where I’d welcome Trinity’s advice. She knows far more about this sorta thing than I do. Whatever it is we can figure it out later. I came to bring you to the trial.”

Grey paused, looking down at at his sheets.

“I had almost forgotten… did Nia?”

“She should be finishing up now, I left early in order to get you ready.”

“How’d it go?”

“Well, she told us the truth.”

The physical discomfort Grey expressed told Zeke everything he needed to know about that statement.

“If it makes you feel any better, she tried arguing for you.”

“Hopefully that’ll be enough.”

Throwing off his sheets, Grey got out of bed.

“I set some clothes aside for, I’ll be outside when your ready.” Zeke said as he made his way for the door, leaving Grey alone in the room.

In the pile of clothes Zeke had laid out for him were a beige tunic, pair of dark pants and a set of boots. Grey didn’t waste any time as he dressed himself. He wanted nothing more than to get today over with. The fact that they were calling it a trial only made the process all the more intimidating. Fully clothed and as ready as he could be, Grey opened the door, finding Zeke out in the hall.

Zeke’s room as well as the rooms of many of the other high members of the Order were located in an moderately sized castle on the westernmost front of The Kingdom. It was the only structure of it’s kind built this close to the border of giant territory. Before the war the land had been a part of an old Duchy, the castle belonging to the Duke. The castle sat on the top of a hill surrounded by large stone walls that encompassed a courtyard with stables, barracks, and even a few small builds once used to house servants and their families. Many of the nearby towns-including one set at the base of the hill-were apart of the Duchy before the war. During the war giants rampaged through the countryside, and the Duke’s land was the first to suffer casualties. After The Hunter Order was established The King granted them access to the castle as well as some of the immediate land surrounding it which included the town, seeing as most of its residents and the even the Duke himself had been devoured. The Hunter’s proceeded to refortify the castle, and soon even the nearby town was restored and populated and provided somewhat of a trading post where many of hunters would spend their time off.

Zeke nudged Grey as they approached their destination. A set of two large oak doors stood before them, each with a hunter stationed on either side. They acted in unison, each moving forward and opening the door as they approached, allowing Grey to a look inside the main room.

The room had once been a throne room where the Duke would sit and hear the requests of his people. Now it had been outfitted for a different purpose. A large ovular desk similar to a podium with six chairs was stationed at the center, with all but one currently occupied with a different member of the council.

In the first seat was the only man Grey did not recognize. He was a robust man with a shaved head and wearing what appeared to be an expensive doublet. Next to him sat Master Arlen, an older man with white beard dressed in worn gray robes. Grey had met Arlenon his first day at The Keep, he was the keeper of knowledge and often met with new recruits to add their records to the archives. Sitting in the middle left seat was an imposing figure, short dark hair and wearing a leather jerkin. Though only having seen him on few occasions Grey recognized him immediately. He was Jerrick the current Grand Master of The Order. Sitting at his side was Barron, garbed in his plated armor and costume crimson cloak. The two of them together looked almost like twins, with Barron’s graying hair being the most noteworthy difference, which was odd seeing as Jerrick was supposedly the older of the two. In the last occupied seat was Trinity. Trinity was young, beautiful with fair skin and long lavender hair which always grabbed attention where she went. She fashioned herself with silver jewelry and wore a purple dress dark enough to contrast with her hair and an opening that revealed a generous amount of cleavage. Zeke had once told him that she apparently padded her chest to make them stand out, but no one in The Order was brave enough to ask let alone check to see if this were true.

Sitting before the rest of the council in a single chair facing the podium was Nia.

“Huntress Nia you are dismissed. You may return to your quarters as you please.”

Nia stood from her chair and began making her way to the back of the room. Zeke clasped Grey on the shoulder, before moving to take his seat at the empty chair besides Trinity.

Taking in a deep breath Grey made his way to the center of the room. He watched as Nia walked towards him, a slight limp in her step. She must still be recovering from her injury, and watching her walk Grey couldn’t help but feel responsible. As they passed each other Nia avoided his gaze, instead muttering something quietly to him as she walked.

“I’m sorry.”

“Well that's reassuring.”

Grey wanted to stop but realizing he was in front of the council he wasted no time in getting to his seat. He could feel his nerves getting the better of him. Living in the city Grey was always afraid that one day he would be put on trial for his crimes. Here he was having put his old life behind him only to end up on trial anyway.

“Well at least I don’t need to worry about getting my hands chopped off... I hope.”

“Grey Nersin.” Jerrick announced as Grey took a seat. “You have been brought here before the council in order to review your actions during the last mission. What you say now will determine your future with our Order. As a Hunter of the Order we expect you to answer all of our inquiries honestly and with the proper respect. Do you understand?”

Grey nodded.

“Very well, before we proceed there are a few things I would like to address.”

Jerrick pulled out a few documents he had prepared and laid them out on the table. Reaching into the pocket of his jerkin he retrieved a set of glasses and put them on as he began to read.

“The records we have concerning your history are dubious at best. No real documentation exists claiming your citizenship to our kingdom. The best we have is a record of birth, and later presumed death after a…”

Jerricked paused. He adjusted his spectacles as he read further into the report, taking a moment of silence before continuing.

“well... an incident involving your hometown. Besides this there are a few documents concerning the arrests of a man matching your description, all convicted of petty crimes warranting only minimal punishment. Each one appearing to be using different aliases.”

Grey was speechless. How had they manage to dig up all these documents? Grey had put some much time and care in hiding any piece of evidence that could link back to him, yet here they were pulling up files like it were nothing.

“Now then,” Jerrick continued. ”such documents are not uncommon for recruits within this Order, but what makes yours a unique case is unlike most who join as a form of evading a heavy sentence, you joined out of your own free will. Am I correct in all of this?”

“Allegedly.” Grey responded with the first word that came to mind.

Jerrick did not appear pleased with that answer.

“Well then, I guess I'll get skip straight to the point. Grey, what reason brought you to join The Hunters?”

“I joined because...”

Grey needed to take a moment to think. There were many reasons he joined. He wanted answers for what happened to Amelia. Zeke suggested there might have something special about him and the hunters could help find out what. But there was something a lot more simple about to it. Going back as far as when he was a child and a giant attack his town, giants had always been this large unstoppable force in Grey’s mind, and becoming a hunter seemed like the only way to oppose that force. In a way it was very similar to the why Grey turned to stealing. It was a way to not only  a way to survive but also a way to strike back at society for all of its unfair rules. Grey knew he couldn’t tell them about Amelia, but that didn’t mean he had to lie.

“You saw the reports concerning my town?” Grey asked

Jerrick didn’t even give the documents a second glance before nodded knowingly.

“You needn’t say anymore. Moving on there is one more thing I would like to know, that is the nature of your relationship with Zeke.”

With that question many of the other council members grew interested, but none more so than Trinity, who couldn’t help but say something.

“I think we all know why Zeke recruited his conjugal friend.”

The council’s attention shifted to Trinity’s side of the table, not just because of what she said but to see Zeke’s reaction. Grey saw Jerrick visibly sigh as he took off his glasses, Zeke immediately preparing fire back.

“You want to say that again Witch?”

Trinity’s lips pursued into a faint smile.

”Oh please Zeke, this isn’t the first hunter you’ve had ‘nock your bow’ for you.”

Zeke shot up from his seat. “Watch your mouth harlot! I would never-”

“Careful.” Trinity said cutting him off. “Don’t start tickling me with your lies.”

Zeke paused, and Grey was surprised to even see him start to pale.

“You didn’t?”

“Quit your bickering, the both of you.” Barron shouted. “Grey is supposed to be the one on trial here and so far he has shown more manners than the both of you together. Your council members, start acting like it.”

“Of course, my apologies Lord Barron.” Trinity responded in what was easily masked as an apologetic tone.

Yet something about their interaction struck Grey as odd. Zeke’s sudden concern implied she had done something, and more than that it appeared as if Trinity was implying that Zeke was...

“Now then.” Jerrick continued. “Before we were rudely interrupted, how do you know Zeke?”

“Well we grew up together.” Grey answered honestly. “The two of us were a part of a group orphans that lived outside the city gate. After my home was destroyed I wandered the roads until the other kids found me. We were all orphans one way or another so they took  me in. Zeke was one of the older boys who knew how to hunt and fish. He often taught the younger kids and was something like an older brother to us. One day Zeke and a couple other older kids went into the city to find work. That was the last I saw of him until… a couple years ago when he got me out of some trouble I was in.”

“Trouble?” Jerrick couldn’t help but inquire.

“Yeah, I got into some trouble with some guys over a debt. Zeke helped me out of it and after some catching up he asked if I wanted to join.”

Grey noticed as Jerrick looked to Trinity. Trinity pretended not to notice but Grey could tell she was fully aware. She made a subtle gesture with her hand as if dismissing something, a gesture so subtle that a less observant person would have easily missed. But the second she did, their eyes broke away as if the exchange had never happened.

“Thank you for your cooperation Grey. That will be all from me. Barron, if you would care to proceed?”

Barron answered with a quick nod.

“Let us waste no time then. Grey, the day of the mission your group was given strict orders to stay in hiding and not engage the giant. According to the reports from Huntress Nia both Kai and yourself made the decision to go against orders. Please explain to us your reason for your actions.”

“Well…” Grey began as he started to form an answer. ”we were taking cover behind the treeline outside the village. We were close enough to still be able to observe the giant while we waited for other hunters. Kai was the first to suggest we go, confident that with Zeke’s training our group was more than capable enough to handle it on our own. Nia as you know was reluctant, and voted to wait-”

“And you convinced her to do otherwise.” Barron stated.

“-‘I’ said that we did something we would first need a plan.

“Kai suggested that we charge in and take her by surprise. I told him that plan would get us all killed. If we were going to take out the giant we’d need a plan that involved the three of us working together. Yes I did try to convince Nia to help us but only because I knew it would take all three of us to pull it off. At no point did I force her to go along.”

“You still came up with a plan to go against orders. Why didn’t you just wait?”

“Because from where we waited, we could hear everything.” Grey answered bluntly. “I couldn’t allow myself to sit back and listen to people screaming, knowing I had been trained to help them.”

Despite not saying anything directly, Grey could feel that his answer pleased most of the the council.

“Very good.” Barron said, sounding almost earnest. ”Moving on to our next point.”

Barron motioned to Arlen who passed him a paper which Barron briefly skimmed over.

”I would like to review the details of your plan. Nia’s report state that it went as follows,

“she was to draw the giant’s attention and lead her to your position, while you and Kai waited for an ambush. Kai was to strike at the giants heels, while you found a vantage point on the roof of a building. Kai was to cut the giants achilles tendon bringing her to her knees, while you would leap from your perch to strike at the giant’s throat after she fell.”

Barron paused for a moment as he reviewed the paper. Appearing almost impressed.  

“All in all, not a poor plan, especially for your first day in the field. But things didn’t go as expected. Nia ended up getting injured before the giant was in position, but there is one detail from her reports I am particularly interested in Grey.

“Despite the situation getting out of hand, you were still presented with an opportunity to kill the giant. According to Nia’s report you leapt from the building and suddenly... ‘froze’. Care to explain what happened?”

Grey knew exactly what happened. In that most critical moment he had seen Jule in that giant. He knew it wasn’t her yet he couldn’t bring himself to do it all the same. But there was no way he would be able to tell Barron that, say he came up with a lie.

“I guess my nerves got the better of me.” Grey answered trying to sound ashamed of what happened. Barron nodded opening his mouth to continue.

“And there it is.” Trinity interrupted.  “This whole time you’ve been dancing around with so many half truths I was afraid I wasn’t going to get a chance to catch you. But you’ve finally done. You’ve lied.”

Grey’s heart sank as each of the council members turned to him. Jerrick and Barron’s disappointment seemed to be clear, while the others looked at him quizzically. The exception was Zeke, who seemed to ashamed of something, what exactly that was only made Grey more concerned. It seemed as if all of the good will he had been trying to earn throughout the trial had been snatched away at the last moment.

“Well don’t you look confused? Good. I was afraid Zeke might have tipped you off.” Trinity continued gleefully.

“I swore I wouldn’t and I didn’t.” Zeke said quietly.

Trinity couldn’t help but appear disappointed.

“Apparently so, otherwise I would have just found out.”

Zeke shot her a sharp look.

“So you did cast one on me.”

“Oh please Zeke. Why wouldn’t I? You’re on review here almost as much as he is.”

Grey realized Trinity could see he was lost, as she smiled and began to explain herself.

“Allow me to explain what's been going on. Magic when utilized correctly can have all sorts of applications. For example a spell that allows me to detect when a person is lying, which is exactly what I’ve been casting on you throughout the trial.”

“I will ask again.” Barron repeated. “What happened Grey? The truth this time.”

“I… I…”

Grey stuttered struggling to find the words. The council was on him now, watching with disapproving eyes. What was he supposed to say now?

“...I didn’t want to hurt her?”

“You didn’t want to hurt her...” Barron uttered. “She was a giant!” He yelled as his voice erupted in anger.

“She is exactly what you’ve been trained to kill!” Barron continued. “A giant knows no compassion and would never show you the same courtesy. They are blood hungry beasts that take human life without a moment's hesitation. Your teammate Kai ended up learning this the hard way due to your actions. With everything that monster did, not to mention what ‘they’ did to you, I would have expected you understand not to have empathy for the enemy!”

“Not to interrupt your little lesson here Lord Barron.” Trinity began, halting his rant. “But it appears Grey has only given us another partial truth. There is more about this than he’s letting on.”

At this moment Trinity turned to Jerrick.

“With permission I could perhaps force the truth out of him.”

While Trinity proposed her offer, it was apparent that Zeke would not have it, as he shot from his seat once more, grabbing Trinity by the wrist.

“Listen here witch!” Zeke shouted. “If you lay so much as a finger on him i’ll-”

Trinity pulled her wrist free. All of the amusement she had been having with this trial was gone in an instance. In a quick and sudden motion she stood up from her seat, catching Zeke off guard and meeting his gaze on equal footing.

“Never. Touch me. Again.”

The council room fell silent as Trinity returned to her seat. Zeke was left standing, looking almost petrified. With a snap of her fingers Zeke jerked back nearly tumbling over himself and breathing heavily. Grey was terrified, whatever Trinity had done to him was so fast he hadn't even caught it. Jerrick having had enough with the intrusions spoke up.

“Zeke in order to refrain from anymore distractions I would ask that you avoid speaking until the end of the trial.”

“No.” Barron interrupted. “This perfectly demonstrates another issue we’ve been having.

“Zeke, you’ve been losing focus lately. Since Grey’s acceptance into The Order it seems that his training had become your top priority. I was willing to overlook it for a time, but now that his training is over you’ve demonstrated what I feared would happen. You’ve started putting his safety over your responsibilities.”

“I’ve done everything in my power to uphold my duties as a hunter and would never-”

“Now that felt like a lie.” Trinity said.

“I… I wouldn’t-” Zeke began defensively.

“You forget what you’ve cost us Zeke.” Barron continued. “Last mission you were given orders to help us capture a giant that would have been instrumental in turning the tides of recent events. Instead you choose to slay the giant, believing it would be the quickest solution in order for you to return to Grey’s side. Would you like to claim otherwise?”

Zeke gave a quick look to Trinity as she smiled deviously his way.

“No.” he answered defeated.

“Then I think we’ve heard enough.”

“I think we’ve all heard enough.” Jerrick agreed. “We will now determine Grey’s future with The Order. Hunter Zeke.” Jerrick said turning to him.

”Due to your personal relationship with Grey you shall not be allowed to partake in this vote. I hope you understand. The vote will determine whether or not Grey will be allowed to stay and continue as a Hunter within The Order. Viceroy Octus you may start us off.”

“I’ll vote no.” the man said sounding eager to be done with the trial.

Master Arlen was the next to vote. “I’m afraid my vote is the same.” the old man answered.

Jerrick motioned for Barron to continue, who answered swiftly with a “No”.

Trinity leaned back in her chair, clasping her hands together as the vote fell on her. With a spiteful smile she answered

“Certainly not.”

Jerrick looked across the council and nodded.

“Hunter Grey by a unanimous decision it has been decided. Effective immediately you will no longer hold the rank of hunter.” Jerrick paused a moment, allowing the decision to set in before continuing. “We thank you for your service and due to the nature of your recruitment you are free to go as you wish. Gather your belongings, and on behalf of the Hunters Order I wish you the best on your travels.”

Turning to his fellow council members Jerrick stood to address them. “I hereby conclude this trial, you are all dismissed.”

Grey rose without saying a word before making a swift exit. The guards opened it without question as he hurried down the hall, trying process what had just happened. It wasn’t long before Grey he could hear Zeke calling back from behind him as he raced to catch up.

“Grey, slow down!”

Grey forced himself to stop. It didn’t take Zeke long to catch up, as he came jogging alongside him.

“Listen I know this is difficult but take a moment to think before running off. Yes your no longer a hunter, but that doesn’t mean you can’t stay. I have plenty of room here to accommodate you.”

“Zeke… I don’t think I would be comfortable with that.”

“What?” Zeke sounded confused. “Wait, is this about what Trinity said, Grey don’t listen a single thing that bitch-”

“No, Zeke. I don’t care about that. Living in the slum you meet… all sorts of types. You kinda learn to live and let live. That’s not the issue. I don’t think I can stay here, because it just won’t feel right. I’ve spent two years training to become a hunter, staying would just remind me that I failed.”

“Where will you go then?”

“I...” Grey paused. “I don’t know.”

For the first time in a long time, Grey felt lost. Becoming a hunter had been all he had cared about for so long, now that it was over he realized he lacked any sort of plan B.

He could always go back to being a thief. It was what he did for so long and he was good at. The only reason he stopped was because he got in trouble with “Smiling Jack”. Grey knew Jack was not a person to let things go even after this long, but his goons must have certainly lost his trail by now. If he kept his head down and moved to one of the smaller towns or cities he might make a decent living. Hell at least all of his training wouldn’t be for nothing. Now that he knew how to wield a sword and had been thrown through more endurance obstacles then he could count, he was in peak physical condition. Throwing down in a street brawl or scaling over a high fence would be nothing compared to dealing with giants. But while the urge to return to old habits was tempting Grey knew he was better than that now. He had a chance to completely turn his life around, be something else.

He could maybe move out to country, something Grey had never really thought about. His training with the hunters had freshened up his survival skills, and while he was no Zeke he was still pretty capable with a bow. When he was a child he was too young to consider it, but perhaps he could spend the rest of his days being a different kind of hunter. Setting up camps, living in the forest, hunting wild boars and deer. He would use what he needed and travel to the nearest town to sell the rest. He wouldn’t have to worry about Jack finding him being far from The Capital and always moving. Maybe one day he’d even save up enough to buy a house. Hell with enough time he could even build himself one. Something about settling down in a cozy log cabin appealed to him, he could practically see it. Sitting by the fire, stewing venison in a large pot. Maybe he’d even find a nice girl and start a family. Just live out his days a simple with a simple life. But as appealing as it was, something about it didn’t sit right. As if a part of him was saying,

This isn’t the life meant for you.

Grey knew. He couldn’t live like that. He had lived most his life surviving each day as it came. As much as he convinced himself that he was working towards a cozier life he knew there was no way he could give up his old urges. Being a thief, becoming a hunter, those were lives where the thrill of danger made the living so much more exciting. Perhaps he didn’t want to be a thief any longer, but there was no way he could simply let go and live a quiet life

“Well at the very least stay until you’ve figured things out.” Zeke pleaded.

Grey hesitated. “Fine, but only until I’ve figure things out.”

“That's all I ask.” Zeke said relieved. “You had me worried for a moment. For now, let's go gather your things and we can discuss more later.”

Grey agreed and the two of them made their way towards the barracks. Grey didn’t have much when he arrived, most of his belongings such as his weapons and armor were all provided by The Order. Grey himself had only had a small handful of items when he joined. A travel sack, a worn out hunting bow which was probably in poor condition, a hunting knife, a belt, quiver, water skin, and a set of old worn sewn up clothes that he had been wearing when Zeke first taken him in. The clothes he had thrown out ages ago; burn patches from acid and fabric stinking of stomach bile didn’t go over well when around other people. Zeke had managed to supply him with a new set of clothes, leagues better than any of the old rags he used to wear and that was even before they had been ingested.  

As Grey and Zeke reached the barracks Grey couldn’t help but let his mind wander. It was odd, despite his initial reaction of being dismissed from The Order, Grey couldn’t help but feel a slight bit of relief. It was as if he had just been freed from something he didn’t realize he wanted to be free from. The world was open to go wherever he wanted. The question that lingered was what did he want to do?

Something you should have done a long time ago.

It hit him suddenly. How had he not thought of it sooner, it was like the answer was dangling in front of his face yet he only seen it just now.

He had started his training for one reason. One reason that had since been tossed to the side as he focused on becoming a hunter. He had joined The Hunters in order to get answers, answers he still didn’t have. Answers about Amelia, giantkind, and why he kept having the same dreams almost every night. But those answers weren’t here with the Hunters, they were back where he had began, with Amelia and Jule. If he was ever going to figure anything out he needed to return to them, return back to The Giantlands.

It was all beginning to come together, and Grey could feel his mood improving. He was no longer distraught about being kicked out of The Order, but instead determined to get back to what mattered. He just needed to figure out how he was going to proceed.

While Grey was training he wasn’t completely idle in his search for answers. During his time at The Keep he had seen maps created by scouts detailing The Kingdom and Giant Territory alike. These maps had routes taken by past hunters that were usually safe to follow and where giant sightings were most prominent as well as the location of giant settlements. In his own curiosity Grey had once deduced the area where Jule’s home most likely was, being separated from the usual giant settlements had made it difficult to place be he was sure he had found it. If he got his hands on a map he was sure he could get there, but finding Jule’s home would be the least of his problems. Food, water and equipment would all be vitally important if he wanted to take this journey.

While Grey had some money stowed away it was hardly enough to fund such an endeavor, and all his old equipment was in too poor of condition to be useful. His hunting bow and knife might last him a little while longer, but with no arrows and a lack of other supplies that wouldn’t mean much.

Grey began to take in his surroundings, examining the fort’s yard for any answer. He kept track of the buildings they encountered as he began to form a plan. The Keep held all the things he needed. The Armory, Mess Hall, and Storage Room, held all the things that were important for taking on journeys such as the one Grey intended to make. There was one issue, with Grey no longer being a hunter most of these supplies would be inaccessible to him. Fortunately that dilemma had a very simple answer.

As Zeke helped Grey gather his things Grey felt a tinge of remorse. Zeke had done so much for him, but he knew there was no way in hell he’d allow Grey to go through with this plan. He wanted Grey to stay and figure things out and he had. Grey knew the longer he stayed the harder options to leave would be, he would have to leave tonight. Before Zeke or anybody had a chance to stop him. It was time to put his old skills to the test.

“Let’s see if I still got the lucky touch.”

 

“So ‘hen the bitch jus leff me!”

Fenn continued his intoxicated rant, his words spilling into each other as he spoke.

“Yous knows, is all ‘cuse that prick had coin an’ I didn’t. Fuck ‘er whore of a father too! Bet he put ‘er uptoit.’”

“I… I getcha, women are nothin’ but trouble.” Grey added as he swished the open bottle in his hand.

“Ha! I’ll drink to that!” Fenn bellowed with a laugh.

Grey passed him the bottle as Fenn wasted no time in swallowing down another hefty swig. When he was done he passed it back to Grey, who mimicked the action by bring the bottle to his lips and tossing back his head. But the alcohol never entered his mouth, as he made a loud audible gulp to keep up the deception. He had been playing at this game for about an hour now, and the effects were starting to pay off.

Fenn was a large stout man, and as Grey had garnered from their conversation, he had been with The Order for over six years. After his second year in the field he had received a leg injury that would see him taken out of the combat for good, since then he had been put to work in the base performing small tasks here and there. Most of these tasks included cooking, training recruits and cleaning the barracks, but tonight Fenn had a special job, tonight Fenn was put in charge of guarding the armory.

Grey’s plan had taken a bit of preparing leading up to this point. Once Zeke had fallen asleep he had snuck out of the room, taking everything that he would need with him. After making sure to leave behind a very vital note. From there he made his way back to the barracks. Creeping into the room Grey went directly to Kai’s old bed. It was already occupied by another hunter, but Grey still remembered a little secret Kai had shared with him.

Alcohol wasn’t permitted within the barracks but that hadn’t stopped Kai. Underneath a loose floorboard hidden beneath his bed, Kai had stashed away a bottle of moonshine, a bottle he distilled himself. Kai had a talent for making alcohol, having picked it up from an old member in his bandit gang, and he liked making his drinks strong. A fact Grey had learned himself when Kai felt generous enough to share. It was good Kai had such a talent, because for Grey’s plan to work he was in need of a very strong bottle of liquor.

“You know, yous ah lucky one… you get to leave this place, an’ a free man too! Most of those boys are gunna get ‘em selves killed befor’ long. Take it from me, you’re lucky to git out whiles ya still can.” Fenn said, his sentences becoming more of a slur with each passing second.

“Well then.” Grey said, trying to match Fenn’s drunken mannerisms.  “Here's to a bright future!”

Grey brought the bottle up to his lips, feigning another gulp before pulling it away slopply and holding it to Fenn.

“Finish it off.” he said with a smile.

Fenn happily obliged as he chugged down the rest of the drink.

“Heh heh. That sum good stuff. Yous got anymore?”

Grey smiling like a idiot looked up and began pondering.

“I don’t think so…”

Grey leaned forward peering down the hall behind Fenn.

“...maybe that guy has some!”

Fenn turned around in a panic, and then settled down confused. His eyes strained to see down the dimly lit corridor

“I don’t see-”

Fenn finished his statement with a silent gasp for air. Grey was on his feet, positioned behind him with his arm wrapped against Fenn throat. Fenn struggled to pry himself free from Grey’s hold, but it was useless. Normally a man of Fenn’s stature could have easily throw him off,  however he had two things working against him. Not only did Grey surprise taken him by surprise, but the alcohol was taking its toll, clouding judgement and effecting his reactions. Before long Fenn stopped struggling. Waiting a few moments longer Grey released him, having his body slump to the floor as he knelt down besides him.

Grey quickly made a check for his pulse, followed by any signs of breathing. It was hoarse and uneven, but he was alive. Grey sighed in relief, he just needed the man out for a few hours, not dead.

Lifting Fenn’s body back to his chair, Grey grabbed the empty bottle and positioned it next him. He adjusted Fenn’s body to appear more relaxed and natural. Stepping back he admired the scene he had created. Just a man falling asleep on the job, after having a little bit too much to drink.

“These night shift are just so hard after all.”

Satisfied with his work, Grey grabbed the key that hung off Fenn’s belt and used it to open the armory. Stepping inside and shutting the door behind him, Grey wasted no time in getting to work. First he made his way to the weapons rack and pulled from it a short sword with it’s sheath. Following that he took a empty quiver and filled it with thirty or so arrows, a whetstone to keep the blades sharp, and then proceeded to gather a hunter's cloak. The hunter’s cloaks held a unique design, on one end it was a mesh of faded greens that helped camouflage hunters amongst the foliage of a forest, and the other side a darkened almost bluish gray, that was used to blend into dark surroundings at night, even under the throw of moonlight. The gray color also blended well into stone, a tactic Zeke had explained was useful for Hunters that traveled into giant homes.

After finding a cloak that fit, Grey turned his attention to the armor. The Hunters utilized armor made of of leather plating that in truth only provided minimal protection, but the reality was that no set of sturdy armor could protect from the weight and power of a giant. So instead the leather was designed to maximize mobility but still be able to absorb what little shock it could from falls and other environmental hazards.

After testing a few pieces Grey found a set that would would fit. A set of bracers accompanied with a chest piece that covered his shoulders and abdomen as well as a pair of sturdy boots, which he was more than happy to trade in his old pair for. It wasn’t a full set, but since time was short it was all he needed.

Making his way back to the armory door Grey paused, pressing an ear to the door before slowly pushing it open. Things were going to be much more difficult now that he had the armor. If he were to be caught now it would be harder to pass it off as coincidence. But Grey had one more stop to make, so long as nothing went wrong he was in the clear.

 

 

 

Nia couldn’t sleep. Her thoughts had been a scattered mess ever since the trial. Thing had only gotten worse since then. Though it hadn’t even been a day yet, word had already spread that Grey was kicked out of The Order. Since the news reached her she didn’t know what to do with herself. She had spent the past few hours lying awake, staring up at the sealing knowing she was responsible.

Nia surrendered to the idea that she wasn’t getting any sleep tonight and decided a walk might do her some good. Getting dressed she strolled through the courtyard, walking with a limp in her step. Her injury was healing remarkably fast. One of the perks of being a hunter was access to some of the greatest medical treatment in the entire kingdom. Trinity’s elixirs and spells were the reason for that, and a resource The Order was very protective of. Even with the treatments provided to her Nia’s leg remained sore, and every step brought with it a dull pain.

Nia fought through it, she was too preoccupied thinking about the trial. Despite Zeke assuring her she wasn’t in any trouble, Nia couldn’t help but feel discouraged during it. Question after question interrogating her in order to figure out who was at fault. Nia tried to justify her answers the best she could but the council didn’t seem interested in justification. When it was over Nia was sure she was going to be sent home-but she wasn’t-instead it was Grey who was forced to leave.

Making her way towards an old oak tree in the center of the courtyard, Nia sat against the thick trunk. It was quiet. Just like she hoped. Most hunters were either asleep or headed into town, either to get drunk at the tavern or get laid in the brothel. Besides for the occasional patrol she was left mostly alone. Alone with her thoughts, and time to think.

Things were going to be much worse without Grey. During her time among the hunters she made it a point to avoid people. Afterall she was a woman in an Order comprised mostly of former criminals. The only people she allowed herself to grow close to where her teammates.

Her first instinct was to trust no one, especially not Kai. Kai liked to talk, but not just talk; he liked to boast. He was very open about his past as a bandit, the raids he took part in, the people he killed, the women he bedded. He had even tried to convince her to sleep with him on more than one occasion. She had hated him for it. He was too much like people that brought her here.

Compared to Kai and the first impressions he left, Grey was very different, yet that only made her trust him less. He seemed just as talkative as Kai, at least when they were together. Both coming from criminal backgrounds they shared a sort of chemistry that Nia was expecting from the people here. Grey had only tried to talk to her once during her first day, though she put out very blunt signs that she did not want to be spoken too. Unlike Kai, he left her alone after that.

After first glance Nia had pinned him as just another criminal, but as the weeks went by Nia began to see she couldn’t have been more wrong. While he would occasionally go out of his way to greet her or make a witty remark; he never did more than that. In fact Grey was usually quiet, always observing his surroundings. While Nia preferred Grey’s company over Kai’s, his quiet and observant nature made her skeptical of him. Afterall he had been a thief.  

Zeke was the one to convince her to give him a chance. She had learned to trust Zeke early in her training. Being her teacher he made it a point to reach out to her, and unlike the other two Nia had never used a weapon before. Zeke took it upon himself to teach her; training her to be proficient with a bow. At first Nia assumed his reasons for helping her were sexually motivated, but certain rumors about him eased that concern.

It was during her archery training that she was properly introduced to Grey. Zeke had him take over her training whenever he was busy. Grey acted cautiously around her, almost as if he were uncomfortable around her, a direct contrast to how he acted whenever Kai was there. He was a lot more careful about what he said, and often inquired if she was comfortable with what he was doing. It was due to this concern that allowed Nia to trust him and soon he became one of the few people Nia talked to outside of training. He shared a lot of stories about his life, especially his childhood. Growing up with Zeke and the other orphans outside the city, and during one late night conversation he even told her about the day he lost his parents and his motives for joining the hunters. During that night he had even asked about her reasons for joining, though Nia refused to tell him. The only thing she said was that she was brought here under false charges and he left it at that. While it seemed like Nia may have not trusted him, in truth she was the only one to trust him with even that much information. It was something she didn’t want to share with anyone, not even him.

After becoming close with Grey she learned to be comfortable with the rest of her team. Zeke as her mentor, Grey as friend, and even Kai became tolerable after Grey insisted he reel it back while speaking to her. She never put him on the same levels as the other two, but she knew that when things got tough he could be relied on. In the end that had turned out to be true, leaving Nia to regret not having gotten to know him better.

When she had first joined the hunters she had given up on life. She intended to play her part and either die in the field, or find a time to take it herself. Yet Grey, Zeke and even Kai had given her something to strive for, made her feel as if life were worth the effort of keeping. Now she was alone again. Kai had died trying to protect her because she couldn’t keep herself from getting hurt, Grey had taken the blame for the failure and was now being sent away, and with their training over Zeke would return to his duties as a member of The Trinity, soon he would be too busy to find time for her anymore.

Nia buried her face in her knees as she began to cry. It was all her fault. Once Grey was gone that would be it for her new life. Once she was back in fighting shape they would send her out again, this time without Grey or Kai to have her back. She would die. She had already gotten injured on her first mission, devoured and nearly digested, it was only going to get worse from here on out. Even if she was lucky on her next encounter or the next one after that, it would only be a matter of time until that luck ran out and she found herself either crushed under a giant's heel or dissolving within it’s stomach. She knew that was the risk of being a hunter but her team had always made her felt safer... Grey had made her felt safer. Grey, who dreamed of becoming a hunter. Who wanted to fight and protect people more than anyone. Who was more suited than her in every way to be become one. Who now couldn’t because of her testimony. She had betrayed him, and she would die knowing that she had betrayed him.

 

 

 

With nimble fingers Grey maneuvered the tumblers of the lock, listening for the euphoric sound of a... click!

A smile spread across lips as another cylinder fell into place. Oh how he missed this. That sound. That feeling. It was a feeling unlike any other. Every lock picked, every unheard footstep, every unseen dash, it reawakened a sensation he had not felt in years.

Living on the streets had taught Grey many hard lessons. There was always a danger of being caught and fear of that danger had kept Grey alive. But there was something enjoyable about it too. Every mark was a like a puzzle that required wit and skill in order to solve, and the thrill of pulling off a successful heist brought with it a high that was indescribable, all leading to that crescendo that was a… click!

Underneath the shroud of a hunter’s hooded cloak, Grey was as giddy as a child.

Success was probably the most dangerous aspect about being a thief. Success made a person arrogant, imbuing within them a false notion of invulnerability. Grey had witnessed too many hangings to know that wasn't true. In a single moment a thief's luck could take a turn for the worse. He had made it this far, breaking into the armory, equipping himself with hunter grade weapons and armor, and stocking up on tools he’d need for the journey but that only made things all the more difficult. Every success came with a new set of risks. But this was his last stop for the night. If he could just make it out without being caught he would be home free.

Slowly opening the door to the Mess Hall, Grey slipped inside. He made a quick check of his surroundings before continuing. As he shut the door behind him-as if to curse his luck-the door let out a low creak. Grey’s heart nearly stopped. He froze waiting for something to happen. But nothing did. Closing the door shut he sighed.

Perhaps he was being a bit too paranoid. The hunters who where patrolling the grounds had just made thier pass a few minutes ago, Grey had timed it out to be the case.

With the door safely shut, Grey made his way to the kitchen. He still couldn’t shake the feeling that perhaps the door had alerted someone, but he shook the thought from his head. He had to remind himself that he was just overthinking things. Afterall, who would be wandering the grounds this late at night?

 

 

 

It was late and Nia’s was no closer to calming her nerves as she had been when she stepped out. She couldn’t help but feel responsible for what happened to Grey, not matter how much she tried to justify what had happened no amount of fresh air would convince her otherwise. She needed to talk to him, that was the only thing that would help her now.

Using the trunk of the tree to support herself, Nia got back on her feet. There was nothing else she could do now, she needed to go back and sleep. First thing in the morning she’d find him and talk, until then there was nothing to do but rest.

Walking through the empty courtyard, Nia began her slow trek back to the woman’s sleeping quarters. As she walked a creaking sound caught her attention The noise was low and subtle, but it was enough make her jump regardless. Nia paused, wondering where the sound had come from. It sounded very similar to the creaking of wood. Nia wanted to just brush it off as the wind, maybe some old branches on a tree or something, but the more she thought about it the more she became convinced it wasn’t. It sounded too deliberate, like something being opened. A door or window maybe? .

Her curiosity urged her to investigate further. Walking to where she believed the source of the noise had been, Nia found herself approaching the empty Mess Hall building just as the door shut. Her sense of curiosity immediately faded and turned into a sharp sense of cation. Something wasn’t right. No one should be up at this hour, at least not somebody with access to the Mess Hall.

For the first time since she arrived Nia reminded of where she was. A keep full of convicted criminals. Nia wanted to assume the best and move on. Maybe somebody had forgotten something, or they were doing some late night inventory checks, but none of those reasons made sense to her. If there was someone here why was there no light? No candle, no lantern, nothing.

Part of Nia wanted her to just ignore it and move on. Whatever was happening didn’t concern her. The other part wanted to find out what was going on. Something was happening and she was in a position to find out what. She knew it could be dangerous, confronting someone alone in the dark with no one around, especially a lone woman like herself. Maybe she could just tell a guard, have it be someone else's problem, but she had the opportunity to do something now, why wait? She was a hunter afterall, she was trained to do better, be better. Grey didn’t wait for help to arrive when they confronted the giant, she wouldn’t either. With that thought to guide her Nia reached for the handle of the door.

 

 

 

Grey was already fast at work, stowing away what food he would need in order to embark on his journey. He focused on things that would last him, bread, dried meats, and some fruit he could enjoy on the first day or so. As Grey sorted through the kitchen’s provisions he was interrupted as the sound of the front door creaked open. Grey froze nearly dropping what he was holding in the process. Someone had just entered the building.

Moving quickly Grey brought himself down into a low crouch before making his way to the kitchen door. Grey had made sure not to light anything as he entered. He was used to moving around in the dark and his eyes had already adjusted to the faint moonlight that leaked in through the windows. He couldn’t help but notice that who ever had come in after him was doing the same.

From where he stood Grey couldn’t make out much as he strained to see into the dark hall, he needed to move in closer, he needed to find whoever was in here before they found him. Silently and carefully Grey pressed open the kitchen door and slid into the main room. He kept to the walls, avoid any of the light that came in through the windows. So long as he didn’t make too much movement he would be safe.

Grey heard the sound of disheveled footsteps and uneasy breathing. Whoever this stranger was it was clear that they had lost their composure. This only further begged the question of why they were here.

Grey received his answer as the stranger spoke in a voice he knew all too well.

“I know you're in here!” Nia cried out. “The mess hall is supposed to be closed so… so come out and explain yourself!”

“Why the hell is she here, tonight of all nights!” Grey thought to himself.

Grey spotted the dark silhouetted figure that was Nia as she moved about the room, wearily walking, constantly stopping to look over her shoulder in a paranoid fashion. Not that it did her much good, by the way she walked and the amount of furniture she kept stumbling into Grey was certain she couldn’t see a thing.  

“I’ll have you know, I’m armed and well trained, so I wouldn’t try anything if I were you!” she called out into the darkness, the shakiness of her tone diminishing the threat.

With Nia in the nervous state that she was Grey was certain he could sneak past her without any issue. He hadn’t collected as much as he had wanted but the situation had taken a turn for the worse. He was pushing his luck as is, staying any longer with Nia on the prowl was too risky.

Keeping low Grey began making his way towards the exit as Nia continued her frantic search in the dark. Her eyes would take some time to adjust so this was the opportune time to leave. As Grey was about halfway across the room Nia said something that made his stop.

“If you don’t come out soon i’ll alert the guards!” Nia announced.

Grey swore under his breath. He banking on the fact that if he snuck out without her noticing, Nia would just assume that whatever she thought was here was just in her head. Bringing the guards into this risked everything. Grey’s plan relied on nobody realizing he had left till morning. If the guards believed Nia’s story they might search the grounds for any suspicious. It would only be a matter of time before they stumbled upon his handy work, a knocked out guard, missing gear, from there it would be a domino effect and if he hadn’t gotten the distance he wanted before then it might undo everything. Grey didn’t know what the punishment for stealing from The Order was, but considering that he was just kicked out he doubted reinitiation would be an optional punishment.

Everything had been going so nicely too, then as usual his luck ran out. But Grey didn’t panic. Didn’t let these changes deter him. Luck was always a factor in his profession. Sometimes things went as planned and sometimes; such as instances like this, they didn’t. At least it was Nia who was here and not someone else. An idea crossed his mind, something he could attempt to keep his plan running without getting the guards involved. It was risky, but it was worth a shot. Sometimes when luck runs out, the best way to get it back was to take a gamble.

Grey stood from his crouched position, and with a deep breath he called out into the darkness.

“Nia.” He said.

Nia froze. “Did you...” she began. “how do you know my name?”

“Nia. It’s me, Grey.”

“Grey!?” she nearly shouted.

“Shhh.” Grey hushed her. “Quiet, someone will hear you.”

Nia caught on quickly and responded back in a quieter tone.

“Grey, what are you doing here?”

“Not now.” he said. “We can talk in the kitchen but not here, I don’t want anyone else finding us.”

Grey began make his way to the back. Nia, now catching a glimpse of his movement in in the moonlight. Following behind him each step she took was painstakingly apparent to Grey’s sensitive hearing. While the noise bothered him, it was not the biggest problem he faced. He had gotten Nia’s attention, she wasn’t getting the guards, but that left him at a loss on what to do next. She was expecting answers surely. Anyone would. So what would he tell her? That he was stealing? That he was leaving? Both?

Grey tried to focus. The important thing was to get her to keep this a secret. For his plan to work he needed buy as much time as he could after he left.

Now back in the kitchen Grey waited for Nia. She walked with her hands stretched out before her, feeling out her surroundings. Her movements were getting more stable, as her eyes began adjusting to the dark. She looked in his direction.

“Are you wearing gear?” she asked.

Grey bit his lip. He was hoping she wouldn’t notice.

“I am.” he responded honestly.

“Where did you that from?”

“I took it.”

Nia paused for a moment. “You mean you stole it.”

Grey shrugged, not sure it Nia could even notice the jester.

“Grey.” her voice sounding exasperated. “What are you doing?”

This was it.

“I’m leaving.” he answered. “Tonight.”

“Leaving? Leaving where?”

Another difficult question to answer.

“Away. Somewhere far away. I… I don’t belong here anymore Nia. I thought I did, but I don’t. I’ve known this for a while now, but I’m going to a place I’ve been wanting to for a long time.”

“Grey...” Nia began. “Is this about the trial. I don’t know what they said but I did my best, I told them that you only did what you thought was right, if you hadn’t been so quick on your feet I and many others would have been dead… I… I didn’t mean to...”

“Nia.” Grey interrupted, noticing her becoming more emotional. “It’s not because of the trial. This is something completely different. If anything the trial just reconfirmed it. Now i’m free to go and do as I please and I know exactly what I need to do.”

“Grey...” Nia said fighting to hold back tears.

And there it was. Grey wasn’t good in situations like this. He knew how to handle people in all sorts of situations, he even liked to think he had a knack for it, but dealing with someone crying-especially a woman crying-was something he hadn’t quite learned how to handle.

“I’m sorry... i’m so sorry.” she cried.

“Hey...” Grey said clearly unsure how to respond. “It’s... okay...”

“It isn’t.” Nia continued between heavy sobs. “Grey you were the first person here to be nice to me, the only person I trusted, and because of my testimony you now have to leave. I’ve been wanting to tell you, tell you that i’m sorry. I know it was your dream to become a hunter and I ruined that, I feel like I’ve betrayed you! Ruined your dream! I can’t live with that.”

“Nia!” Grey raised his voice. That got her to stop thankfully. “It isn’t your fault, and I don’t blame you. You have nothing to apologize for, if anything I can now leave with no reservations. You didn’t betray me, and I never once thought that you did.”

Grey felt Nia’s arms wrap around him, catching him completely by surprise. Doing the only thing he could think of Grey lightly rested a hand on her shoulder for support. The whole experience was uncomfortable. Nia was still crying gripping onto him tightly, and while he wanted to comfort her there was more pressing matters he needed to tend to. After a moment Grey tore away from the embrace and stepped back.

“Listen Nia.” he began. “I have to go. Nobody can know you saw me, okay? Especially not Zeke.”

“Won’t...” Nia said trying to stop her tears. “won’t he notice you're missing?”

“He will.” Grey agreed. “I’ve already planned for that. It should throw him and the rest of The Order off my track for a while but I need as much time as I can. Especially if they come searching for me, which I expect they will.”

“Where are you going, is it dangerous?” she asked.

“Well. It could be.” he admitted. “But that's why I have this gear, so you don’t need to worry.”

Nia looked, it was apparent she wanted to say something but couldn’t muster the strength to say it. Grey wanted to reassure her further but time was ticking, he needed to be sure that Nia wouldn’t tell anyone. So he pressed on.

“Nia.” Grey further emphasized. ”Its ‘very important’ you don’t tell anyone about this. Can your promise me-”

“Take me with you.” she said suddenly.

Grey was speechless.

“What!? Nia you have no idea-”

“I don’t care I want to go with you.”

“I… I can’t.”

“Why not? You said it could be dangerous, wouldn’t it be safer if I went too?”

“Nia you don’t understand.” Grey continued.

“I don’t need to.” she said insistent. “Grey, I care about you. If you’re going somewhere dangerous I want to be there with you.”

“Nia if you knew where I was going you wouldn’t be so keen on joining.”

“Then tell me.”  

Grey studied her for a moment. Though they were in the dark he knew he was looking right into her eyes.

Grey sighed. “I’m going into giant territory, that's why you can’t join me.”

By the silence that followed Grey could tell Nia hadn’t been expecting that answer.

“Grey... you aren’t trying to kill yourself are you?”

“W-what?” Grey stammered in surprised. ”Oh, no no. Trust me, I plan on living. It's just… well there's a lot you don’t know. A lot I can’t tell you. Just know I’ll be safe, but that's why you can’t come with me, traveling there with someone else would just be too dangerous. I can’t risk it.

Nia remained silent for a moment, before responding.

“I still want to go.”

Grey was once more surprised and even touched by her insistence to still join him, but he knew he couldn’t allow it and it was starting to get on his nerves.

“Nia.” He began, this time in a stricker tone. “I wouldn’t want to take you into giant territory even under the best conditions, let alone now. You're leg is still healing and to be blunt you’d only slow me down, and time is of the essence. So I need you to promise that you won’t tell a single soul you saw me and keep what I’m doing a secret. Can you do that for me?”

Looking dejected Nia’s gaze fell to the floor.

“Okay.”

“Good.” Grey sighed in relief. As he prepared to go Nia stopped him.

“What happens if they ask me about you?”

“I don’t know, make something up.” Grey answered sounding annoyed by the question.

“What if they use magic?”

Grey paused, he hadn’t considered that.

“What do you mean?”

“Trinity used magic when she questioned me during the trial, what if she does that again to find out where you went?”

In all of Grey’s planning he hadn’t factored in Trinity’s magic. Magic was still a relatively new concept to him, there was a lot he didn’t know about it. While it was a well known fact that Zeke and Barron’s magic had its limits, Trinity’s magic always seemed more open ended, and that worried him.

“Well...” Grey began, nervously now. “As long as you don’t give them anything to suspect you by then we shouldn’t have an issue.”

“But people already saw I was out late, on the same night you left. Wouldn’t that be suspicious?”

Grey swore out loud, surprising Nia in the process. She was right, it did seem too convenient to ignore. It would only be natural to assume that if they put the dots together they might question her. Worst of all Nia was now aware of where he was going. If she was interrogated, Trinity could easily find out the truth and it wouldn’t be long before they caught him. Once they had they would want to know where he was going and why. Trinity would get answers, answers revealing a secret Zeke and him had been hiding for over two years, answers he couldn't risk her getting. The situation had just become a lot more complicated, forcing Grey to make a hard decision.

“Alright fine.” Grey relented. “Be quick and get as much food as you can carry then we need to go.”

“But… but… what about my gear? My clothes, my belongings?” despite her previous insistence to join Nia now seemed flustered now that it was happening.

“Too risky. We’ve wasted enough time mulling about here. Patrols are still making their rounds, every second we waste is another second we could get caught or time we spend putting distance between us and The Keep. Your leg injury is already gonna set us back besides, the risk of going back to the barracks to get your things is too great. You will have to make do with what you have. Understood?”

Nia was caught in the flurry of information, try desperately to come to terms with what exactly she had just signed herself up for.

“Well? What are you waiting for?” Grey snapped. “Starting gathering food, we will need it now that there are two of us.”

Nia snapped out of her confused state and went to work. Grey was putting more pressure on her now. To many factors were at play. With Nia joining there was so much more things that needed to be done. The hard truth was that she was a liability, especially while traveling in giant territory. But if she was left behind and interrogated it would be much worse than just slow travel.

Despite the potential danger Grey couldn’t help but feel slightly relieved that she was joining. As much as he made her out to be a liability, her company would definitely be appreciated. At least he would have second pair of hands to prep camp, and time would go by much faster with someone to talk to. He knew the risks in involving her, and now it wasn’t just his own life he needed to look out for, but so long as they reached their destination he was sure they’d be fine.

“Grey?” Nia asked, as she was filling a nearby sack with food.

“What is it?”

“Can you at least tell me the plan?”

“I’ll explain everything once we’ve hit the road.”

Grey knew there was a lot that needed explaining. Oddly enough though he felt almost excited. There was so much he had kept secret, things only he and Zeke had been able to discuss, and even then rarely had they out of fear of being heard. Grey trusted Nia, even after knowing where he was going she still wanted to join him. All the risks she was taking for herself by joining proved that she could be trusted. It felt good. Knowing that he had someone else to count on.

As he watched Nia pack Grey instructed her on what food to take. Foods that would last a while, not weigh them down, provided enough nutrition to last them. As she finished collecting Grey couldn’t help but give her a crucial piece of advice.

“One more thing before we head out.” he said.

“What’s that?”

“Try to be a little more quiet.”

 

 

It was a scene that was all too familiar. A quiet night, a star filled sky, the crackling of a low fire tucked away in a small clearing of trees. While the setting brought with it a strong sense of dejavu, the atmosphere couldn’t have felt anymore different. The last time Grey found himself sitting on the edge of this forest he was a man who had lost all hope and was walking towards an uncertain future. Now he walked forward with a new found sense of hope and determination, but the thing that truly made this moment different than the last was the fact that he was not alone.

Nia sat across the fire from him, turning over a hunk of rabbit meat from her hunt this morning. Despite her injured leg she still proved to be a capable hunter, having an accurate and steady aim that would have made Zeke proud.  

When all was said and done they had made good time on this journey. The trip as a whole had taken a little under two weeks. Grey was surprised by the speed in which they made during their travel, initially thinking it would take much longer. With Nia’s leg in the condition that it was, Grey knew that they would have set backs. There were often times where Nia fought through the pain of prolonged walking only to stop when Grey insisted she needed a break. Pushing her would have only made things worse, but overall Nia didn’t complain, and Grey couldn’t help but admire the strength she showed over these last two weeks.

Now that they were reaching the end of their journey Grey couldn’t help but look back on the time they had spent during their travel. How well everything had turned out, even though things remained so uncertain during those first few nights.

 

 

 

“Will they find us?”

Nia finally asked as they prepared to set camp. The two had traveled mostly in silence up until this point, and the sudden emergence of her voice, though low was still startling.

They were nearly a half a days travel out when she said something. Nia had wanted to ask questions the entire trip, Grey saw it on her face whenever he checked up on her, but his instance that they remained quite kept her from doing so. He promised that he would answer everything later, and now that it was later he didn’t know how to keep his promise.

“Grey, will they find us?” Nia repeated.

Grey hesitant to respond, taking a moment to think.

“They shouldn’t. Not if we’re careful and avoid leaving a trail for the next couple days.”

“How can you be sure? They have horses, and before you know it-”

“I’m sure because I’ve already considered that.”

Looking at Nia he could see that he had caught her curiosity. One of the perks of bringing her along was that he now had someone to share his plan with. Something he rarely had the chance to do.

“You see,” he began, his tone almost prideful. “As of this morning they should be discovering the evidence I left behind, stolen gear, missing food, the guard I knocked out.”

“You knocked someone out!?” Nia nearly shouted.  

Grey paused.

“Er… yes. He was still breathing last I checked. Point is assuming he remembers the night before, he will most likely tell the hunters that I was the one to knocked him out, if not I’m sure they can put the pieces together themselves seeing as that I’m no longer there. Point is finding out that I disappeared, had stolen valuable equipment, and now supposedly ‘kidnapped’ you, The Order will make finding me a high priority.”

“Grey, I don’t see how that helps us.”

Grey responded with a smirk.

“It doesn’t. In fact it makes it much worse, IF we were to get caught. But i’ve given them a false lead.”

Nia appeared confused, but choose to remain silent and listen to what Grey had to say.

“Before joining the hunters I worked as a thief, you know this already. Back when I was, I worked in The Capital City before owing the debt of a man that went by the name ‘Smiling Jack’.

“So what does this have to do with anything? I left behind a piece of parchment on my way out intended for Zeke, the only thing written on it was the name Jack with a large red X crossed over it. I have no doubt the members of the council will find out about this letter. From what Zeke has told me it sounds like The Order has a lot of trouble convincing The Capital to provide them with funds. If a criminal with hunter’s training and gear starts killing and stealing right within the city walls it would put The Order in a very bad spot. Meaning-”

“-they’re going to be so busy trying to stop you from reaching The Capital-” Nia said putting the pieces together.

“-to notice we are heading in the opposite direction.” Grey finished.

Nia sat in awe, all while Grey beamed with pride. With only a day to pull it off he had come up with a ingenious set up. There were plenty of risks to be sure, but even with Nia’s sudden involvement the worst of it was now behind them.

“Just to be safe though,” Grey continued. “we will want to be careful for the next couple days. Keep the fire low, stay close to the forest, and just remain on the lookout for any scouts.”

“If theoretically they were to find us,” Nia began. “what would happen?”

“I’ve often found it’s better to ignore questions like that.” Grey’s answer didn’t do much to assure her, if anything it seemed to make her more concerned.

Grey sighed.  “You don’t need to worry, IF we get caught-and that's a big if-I'll tell them I forced you to join me. I mean they can only hang me once, what's the harm of adding an extra notch to the rope.”

Once again Grey’s choice of words didn't come across as reassuring. Instead of saying something in an attempt to fix it, Grey decided he might benefit by staying quiet for once. Nia on the other hand seemed intent to continue the conversation in a different direction.

“Well can you tell me now?”

“Tell you what?” Grey acted as if he didn’t understand.

“You know what i’m talking about, where we're going.”

Grey paused. “Well… we're heading into giant territory...”

Nia sighed. “I know that already. Why don’t you trust me?”

“Nia, it’s difficult to explain.”

“Then take your time, you don’t need to rush it.”

Her response came as a surprise to him.

“How’s this, since we have the time you start off by telling me a little bit each night. Start with what you're comfortable with and work your way to the difficult parts, deal?”

Grey couldn’t help but smile. It wasn’t too bad of a proposition all things considered.

“Deal.”

 

 

 

Following that night Grey had been true to his word. He started off with telling Nia the about Jack and the job he paid him for, how things went wrong and how he was eventually was forced to flee the city. He shared stories about his childhood, his parents the giant that destroyed his village all of which eventually lead up to his encounter with Jule.

Nia was completely enthralled by his story. Grey had never stopped to think of it, but it all made for a engaging tale. Tragedy, danger, the promise of treasure. If he hadn’t been too busy trying to survive he might have thoughts so too in the moment. Grey wanted to leave the story off there but he knew there was more Nia needed to know, especially now that she was coming with him.

The following night brought Cassandra, and Marissa into the story. Jule’s two giant friends. The terror they had subjected him to and eventually Zeke’s sudden appearance. There were certain things Grey was ashamed to admit, but for Nia’s sake he overcame that shame and told her anyway. His change in feelings while talking to Jule, how he stopped Zeke from killing her which incidentally ended with both of them being caught. Not once did Nia stop to interrupt him, but instead remained silent and listened.

Following that Grey explained his experience with being eaten, Zeke’s reluctant truce with the giants to save him, and Zeke’s meeting with the infamous giant queen Amelia. Grey finally ended the story with his departure from Jule’s home alongside Zeke and his decision to join The Hunters. Nia remained silent as he concluded the story. She didn’t say or react to anything he had told her, the non-response making him nervous, though she reassured him that she was fine and even thanked him for sharing. The following day she remained in deep thought, not say much outside what she needed to say.

By this point in the journey it was only a few more days before they reached their destination. Grey was afraid that the rest of the trip would be shared in silence, but on the following two nights everything changed.

 

 

 

Grey set to work on starting the fire, striking a piece of flint with his knife and causing a spark to catch onto the kindling. He had to be careful now, they were just about reaching the border into giant territory. Grey had gotten into the habit of making a pitch over the fire, a technique the hunters had taught him. The pitch was a bundle of suspended leaves and branches made so that the smoke would disperse, making it harder to locate the source. Still a fire near giant territory was risky, so Grey made sure to keep it small.

“Grey.” Nia said as he worked.

“What’s up?” Grey asked while nursing the small flame.

“There's something I want to tell you.”

Grey set down the piece of flint and looked in her direction.

“Alright. What’s up?”

“You told me everything about yourself… and there is still so much you don’t know about me.”

“Well, I wouldn’t say I told you everything.”

Grey flashed her a smile, yet Nia did not smile back.

“Alright,” he continued. “I’m more than happy to listen if there's something you want to say.”

Nia sat crossed legged, fidgeting with her fingers and trying to figure out how to start. Grey remained quite, patiently waiting for her to begin.

“I once told you I was recruited under the false charges.” Nia began. She looked up at Grey as he remained silent.

“It’s true.” she insisted.

“I wasn’t doubting you.”

“Most people do. Everyone is always say didn’t do it, even when they did. But I didn’t. I swear.”

“Nia, why don’t you just tell me what happened.”

Nia nodded. “Okay,” she said. “I come from a village a few miles away from The Capital City. It’s a small place. We would receive a decent amount of traffic from traveling merchants but overall it wasn’t a huge town. I was on my way to one of the local shops to purchase bread, I still lived with my parents at that time. I had an older sister but she was married off and moved away, so it was just the three of us at home. On my way to the store a wealthy merchant and his spoiled son were in town. The merchant was a pompous slob, throwing money around and flaunting his wares to all those who couldn’t afford it. I’m sure you know the type.”

Grey nodded. In fact while as a thief they were typically his favorite type of people to come across. He could usually make a good month's earnings off them if he was smart about it.

“Anyway the merchant himself was an ass but ultimately harmless. His son... he was much worse. I was unfortunate enough to run into them while on my way to the store. While his father was busy, the son-who was no older than you or I-decided to start harassing every woman in town. The entitled prick thought just because he was rich that everyone one desired him.

“When I first saw him he was harassing a girl I knew, our neighbor who lived just on the outskirts of town. She was a quiet girl, young and innocent. She was set to be engaged in a couple weeks to a nice boy from the next town over. The rich brat didn’t care. He said some of the most foul and provocative things to this poor girl. Talking about the things he would do to her, things her betrothed couldn’t possibly live up to. He even said he would make sure to put a child in her before the wedding. The bastard. As I’m sure you know Grey I’m not someone who likes to speak up. Even then I minded my own business, didn’t say a word. But when that rich asshole put his hands up her dress, I had had enough.”

Nia was becoming more heated as she spoke. “I told him that if he was so desperate for a fuck there plenty of goats more suited for his tastes.”

Grey stifled a small laugh. He could only imagine the reaction a merchant’s son would have for being told to fuck a goat. Nia couldn’t help but smile herself.

“I’m glad you liked it. It had worked, I had gotten him to stop pestering the poor girl, unfortunately he made me his new target.

“He started hurling comments my way. Telling me that I was a red rose and that he couldn't wait to de-thorn me. I told him that his father should have spent less money and more time on teaching him how to treat a woman. He tried degrading me with insults, but I brushed them off. I was never one to let words get the better of me. So I ignored him, blew him off and went on my way. I thought that would’ve been the end of it. But it wasn’t.

“That afternoon as the sun began to set, I decided I wanted to check on my neighbor, make sure she was doing okay after that morning. Like I said she lived on the outskirts of town so I had to walk a little bit out of the way to reach her. Mostly this meant walking down a dirt roads I had used since I was a kid. The sun was just beginning to set at the time and I didn’t think to be concerned. Why would I? I didn’t expect to find the merchant boy waiting for me, nor did I expect him to push me to the ground.”

“He forced himself on me, holding me back by the wrists. He said that I had some nerve to talk back to him. Me, some peasant bitch, degrading someone as important as him. He said that he promised to de-thorn me… and he was here to make good on that promise.”

Grey watched as tears began forming in the corners of her eyes.

“Nia, you don’t need too continue if it makes you upset.” Grey reassured her.

“No… no, let finish.”

Grey understood.. This wasn’t just about her telling him the story. This was about her confronting it.

“He... let go of one of my wrists, but still held me down with the other. I tried hitting him, but nothing I did stopped him. With his free hand he started too… started to make it’s way down... I can still feel it... those intrusive fingers wiggling their way down... my neck… my chest... my stomach and… I fought desperately for something, anything that might free me. That's when gripped onto an object sitting on the road, the side of a large jagged rock about the size of my fist. I grabbed it and with all the force I could muster I bashed it against the side of his fucking face. Almost immediately he stopped. He started screaming, a large bloody gash running across his cheek. As he stumbled back, his hand covered in blood. I told him if he touched me again I would do much worse. So the pussy ran off and I just stood there… trembling as I watched him leave. Once he was out of sight I dropped the rock back into the dirt, curled up in the road, and cried.”

Nia sat clutching her legs close to her chest. She buried her head into her knees as she started to cry. It was like as if she was relieving the memory. Grey didn’t know what to do. He wanted to go and comfort her but in her state he wasn’t sure how to proceed. He wasn’t sure if… just do it.

Taking a deep breath Grey stood up and walked to the other side of the fire, taking a seat besides her. Cautiously Grey put his arm around her. As soon as he touched her she reacted violently, but as she raised her head and looked into his eyes she calmed down.

“There is still more to the story...” Nia said, her voice still hoarse.

“Tell me only if you want to.”

“I do,” she said.

“When I finally worked up the strength to walk home, I found the town guards waiting for me. They arrested me on sight on the charge of assault. Apparently the merchant’s son had run back to his father, who was mortified to see the gash I had left on him. His son made up a story that I had assaulted him when he was just trying to apologize to me. Regardless of how credible his story was it didn’t matter. He was wealthy and demanded I pay for my actions. There was no formal trial for what I had done. They demanded that I be publicly shamed, for my family to compensate them, and for an apology and confession for my actions. After everything that happened I couldn’t bring myself to do it. After what he did to me, I swore that I would do anything else if it meant not submitting to that bastards demands. That’s when I found out about The Hunters. If I joined them my punishment would be served in life servitude to the kingdom. My parents would be free of compensation, there would be no need for an apology or public shaming, all that it required is that I plead guilt of my crimes. So I pleaded guilty.

“The merchant tried to refuse my admittance into The Order, claiming it was a punishment only fit for men. Luckily for me The Hunter Order was established during a time of great crisis when they would take anyone willing and able to serve, women and children included. So the next thing I knew I was headed for The Keep. I never told a single soul of what I was convicted for, only those that oversaw my charges knew. Even then I never tried to plead innocent to them. I figured it was better to pretend to be guilty rather than fight it.”

“Nia.” Grey said as she finished. “I had no idea, i’m sorry. You didn’t deserve any of that, you're stronger than most for having endured it for so long.”

She smiled. “Thanks, Grey. That means a lot.” She put her arms around him. “You’re a good guy.”

Grey awkwardly chuckled. “Well I don’t know about that, I think there are a few people who would disagree.”

“Well, I think you're a good guy.”

Grey wasn’t expecting that. Something about the way she said it felt... genuine. All his life he knew he wasn’t a ‘terrible’ person. He broke the law and stole knowing full well that what he was doing was wrong but he also knew he was a far cry from a truly horrible human being. But never before would he have considered himself ‘good’. Hearing Nia say it out loud touched him in a place he never thought possible.

“A good guy huh?”

“I uhh,” Grey stood up suddenly, breaking Nia’s embrace. “I should get back to tending the fire.”

Grey wandered back to the other side of the pit, nearly fumbling with a piece of kindling as he reached for it. He crouched forward, prouding the flames. His face was burning red, and he was unsure if it was due to the fire or Nia’s words which kept repeating in his head.

Things remained quiet for the rest of that night, almost as if something uncertain hung in the air. The following day things were a bit more awkward. Nia was more quiet then usual, seemingly more distracted. Grey tried to lighten the mood with a joke or two but while she would laugh she continued to remain distant. It wasn’t until the following night as Grey readied the fire that he found out why.

Once the fire was set Grey took a moment to collect himself, he began cooking a little bit of leftover meat from the other day, desperately trying to find ways to keep himself busy. After eating Grey remained on the opposite side of the fire from Nia, diligently fueling it every time it began to die down. The two sat in silence for sometime, though every now and again Grey would catch Nia eyeing him from across the flames. Each time made him a little bit more nervous than the last.

“Grey.” Nia finally called out to him, the first time all day.

“Wha…cough, what’s wrong?” Grey awkwardly responded as he was caught off guard.

“No, nothing's wrong.” Nia said. “I just... can… can you sit next to me for a moment?”

Grey froze unsure how to respond but he couldn’t find any reason to decline. Standing up he made his way to her side, sitting down to watch the whirling flames in front of him. Just as he was beginning to grow comfortable, he felt Nia’s body inch closer to his own, cuddling next to him for warmth. Grey felt his heart beating at rates he considered dangerous. Grey opened his mouth to excuse himself but before he got the chance Nia had laid her head on his chest, causing the words to get caught in his throat. Grey sat in awkward silence, wondering what he was going to do now that he was stuck in this position.

“Your heart is beating very fast.” Nia stated cooly.

“It does that sometimes!” he blurted out.

Nia chuckled slightly, which didn’t help his predicament.

“Grey?” Nia asked.

“Yeah?” Grey said back, trying desperately to get his nerves back under control.

“Have you ever been in love?”

Grey was fairly certain it was physically impossible for a human being to melt, but with the amount of sweat he was producing, that was being put into question.

“I uhh...” Grey began to stammer. “That's quite the conversation starter.”

“I’m just curious.” Nia explained. “I’ve never been in love before, so I’m curious what it's like.”

“Well its kinda like… kinda like...” Grey trailed off.

Had he been in love before? Throughout his life Grey had been in a few things, mostly with girls he shared a mutual physical interest in, none of them emotional. Thinking of the girls he had known, few had actually left any impact on his life. As he thought on this he began to question it himself. Had he actually been in love with anyone before? Then a strange realization hit him. There was only one girl that came close, Jule.

A giant. A giant he had known for what realistically was a very short time in his life. But for some reason she still captivated him, though he didn’t know if he could call that love. Yet even still, for the short time they had spent together he had been infatuated with her. She had made him feel unlike any other girl in his life… until this moment.

“I’m… i’m not sure.” Grey answered honestly.

Grey felt Nia’s head shift as she stared up at him. He looked down, their eye’s meeting each other. It was dark now but, the light from the fire was all he needed to see her. The flickering flames reflected off her eyes, the warm orange glow radiating off the red color of her hair. Grey found himself speechless. Realizing how long he had been silent, Grey responded almost without thinking.

“Why are you asking?”

“Because I wanted to know before I did this.”

Nia’s closed her eyes and began moving her face in close. Grey panicked as his heart raced. Nia’s lips pursed ever so slightly as she drew closer. Grey didn’t know what to do. Part of him wanted to stop her but he couldn’t work up the will to try.

Don’t do it.

He closed his eyes, his mind racing.

There is someone else.

He pursed his lips as her’s drew near.

Stop!

The two embraced each other in a kiss and for a moment that made Grey lose all sense of where he was. He put his arms around her, as she did the same. For a single glorious moment Grey no longer cared about the world around him. He no longer cared what had happened to him or what dangers awaited him on the road ahead. All he cared about was this instant, and for once he finally felt at peace. Grey and Nia continued to share this moment together as the fire flickered and crackled besides them, casting them in a warm light glow.  

 

 

 

Since that night the two hadn’t said a word about what had happened, they didn’t need to. Their company was all that mattered not t words. Grey would occasionally look back to find Nia smiling his way and he would instinctively smile back, bashful as a young boy. The two started walking side by side, Grey slowing down to match Nia’s slower pace. He no longer cared if it made the trip longer, he was just happy to be enjoying the moment.

At nights after they finished their meal they would cuddle close together, sharing each others warmth as they sat besides the fire. Nia would lay her head against his chest, and he would wrap his cloak around them and hold her until they fell asleep. They hadn’t shared another kiss since. They didn’t need too nor did Grey ever feel the urge to push for more. He was careful not to betray the trust she had put in him. It was odd, this was the first time Grey had been so intimately close with another person-yet the nature of it was entirely non-sexual-and he was happy it wasn’t.

Only a few days after the night they kissed where they about to reach their journey's end. Grey sat recollecting on all that had happened, smiling at how far both of them had come.

“We should be there by tomorrow afternoon right?” Nia asked.

She sat tending the fire, poking at the small bits of kindling to allow the flames a chance to breathe.

“Should be.” Grey said back.

He hummed to himself a small tune he had once heard. He had forgotten where he had heard it, probably from some tavern he used to frequent down by “Piss Water Alley”.

“Are you excited?”

Grey paused.

“I’m not sure.” He answered after a while.

“Have you decided what you’re going to say when you see her?”

“Who?”

“Jule silly.”

Grey paused again. He hadn't. In fact not only did he not have a plan, but with everything that had happened over the last few nights he had nearly forgotten all about it. How was he going to explain this to Jule? What was he gonna tell her about anything? Would she even remember him? It was an odd situation, a human returning to visit a giant after two years with a woman at his side. Grey had gone along with this plan because it felt right, returning back to Jule and finding Amelia just felt like the right thing to do. Now that he was almost there he wasn’t sure anymore. But for once Grey decided not to worry about it.

“I have no idea.” Grey said gleefully as he stood up.

“Realy? That doesn’t sound like you, you always have a-”

Nia stopped as she felt Grey’s arms wrap around her from behind. She looked up, surprised to see his face hovering over hers. Grey smiled.

“It’ll work out.” He said as he pressed his lips against hers.  

Nia didn’t expect it, dropping the stick she used to poke the flames as she returned the kiss with passion. As he pulled away he kept his arms slung around her shoulders. Nia grasped his hands in her own and squeezed them tightly.

“I love you Grey.” She said aloud, nestling herself in his embrace.

This will only end badly.

“I love you too Nia.” he said back.

 

 

“There it is.”

Nia and Grey stopped before the front of a large oak door that stretched that seemed to stretch on for miles above them. Nia approached cautiously, marveling at the size of the wooden structure. Tenderly she placed a hand on the door’s frame, as if to determine if it was real. Grey couldn’t help but smile. It was surreal experience, seeing something so ordinary appear so large. It helped put things into perspective, the difference between giants and humans. Nia had seen a giant. She knew how large they were, but seeing the entrance to one of their homes only helped empathize how giant giants were.

Nia looked to Grey. “How do we get inside?”

“Under here.” Grey said pointing below them.

Nia looked down to see a gap beneath the door. It looked like a tight squeeze, but a petitie human could squeeze through no problem. Nia knelt to inspect the gap, ducking her head low to peer inside.

“Will we fit?”

Grey answered by unbuckling his belt. He tossed his sword, hunting knife and bow to the ground besides him.

“I managed to pull it off last time I was here, I can’t see why I couldn’t do it again. Your thinner than I am so you shouldn’t have a problem. The only issue I can see getting in the way is the size of your bo…”  

Nia looked at him questioningly as he trailed off.

“Forget it. You’ll be fine.”

Good save.

Grey got onto his hands and knees and lowered himself to his stomach.

“What about our equipment?” Nia asked.

“We can get it later. For now we’ll be safe.”

Grey began crawling under the gap. It was a much tighter fit then he remembered it being. On more than one occasion he found himself almost getting caught only to narrowly wiggle free

“Guess I put on some weight.”

Luckily for him his small stature still proved sufficient enough to crawl through, as he emerged on the other side for the most part unscathed.

Getting to his feet and wiping the dirt off his pants, Grey turned in time to see Nia emerge from behind him. He held a hand out to her, as she took it and was pulled back to her feet. Smiling Nia opened her mouth to thank him, but the words never came out. Instead she walked forward, awestruck at the sight that lay before her. Grey walked by her side and took in the view himself. It was just as he had remembered. A large table with chairs in the center of the room, a bookshelf and pictures hanging on the wall on the opposite side of where they stood, the counter and kitchen on the left, and the living area and hallway on the right. The floor was a bit dirty, looking like it could use a good sweeping but besides that it was just as he recalled.

“Where do we go now?” Nia asked.

“Well.” he began. “We need to find Jule. I was hoping she would be here but since it’s still early she’ll probably still be awake. Unless she’s taking a nap or something.”

The last time Grey had been here, he waited until it was dark to enter in order to avoid detection. This time he was taking the exact opposite approach. It was still midday, sunlight streamed in through the windows and Grey’s plan was to walk boldly out in the open. After all his goal this time was not to remain hidden but to be found.

As Grey began  to walk Nia was hesitant to follow, but quickly seeing how confident he was she hurried to join him at his side. Her eyes kept darting around nervously, not knowing what to expect despite Grey’s reassuring her that everything was safe.

The two of them had made it about halfway across the main room; passing the end of the dining room table, when the door to Jule’s room began to open. The noise caused Nia to jump, while it caused Grey to grow anxious.

Grey was at a loss on what he was going to say when he finally met Jule. Two years had passed, and so much had changed. He had trained to be a hunter, he had been kicked out, and now he had come back with a woman she didn’t know. How was he going to explain it to her? Why did he need to explain it to her?

It had taken until this moment for Grey to begin questioning his relationship with the giantess. There was a notion-an absurd one-but a notion none the less that there might be a mutual infatuation with each other. But he had always written the idea off as absurd, after all she was a giant. But standing here now about to see her again Grey wasn’t so sure. What if she did feel that way, how would she react to Grey coming back but with a human woman. Would she be jealous? Would she turn violent? What about himself? What about his feelings? Did he really feel that way about Jule? Were his feeling for Nia fake? Were they both true?

Grey’s began to sweat as these questions filled his head.

Suddenly all those worries and fears slipped away as Grey felt the delicate touch of Nia’s hand grab onto his own. Grey looked at her. She must have noticed his concern as she smiled his way, squeezing his hand gently to reassure him. Taking in a deep breath Grey managed to calm himself. He was overthinking things, no matter what happened he just needed to be honest. He would have plenty of time to explain and figure it out himself. Besides he was a human and she was a giant. It could have never worked out, I mean who had ever heard of a giant and a human…

Grey!

Grey’s new found conviction was lost as a sudden sense of dread fell over him. As the door open, Grey looked up to see a giant he had never seen before enter the room.

He wasted no time in acting. Grabbing Nia’s hand Grey made a mad dash towards the dining table, practically dragging Nia behind him. Reaching one of the table legs, Grey threw Nia in front of him, and he pushed them both against the wooden frame. Grey must had triggered something because Nia intensively began trying to fight him off, but taking a moment to see the serious look on his face she calmed down.

“What's going on?” she managed to ask.

Grey brought a finger to his lips, signalling her to be quiet.

He leaned in slowly, practically touching his lips to her ear as he whispered,

“That’s not Jule.”

Grey with his back to the wooden leg, peered over the corner hoping to catch a glimpse of the giant stranger.

The door was left slightly ajar but the giant-or rather giantess-had stepped out. The first thing that he noticed was her attire. She wore a set of tightly fitted leather armor; which was almost akin to that of a Hunter’s except darker in color. An assortment of knives and vials hung off her waist, as did what he assumed to be a coin purse. The giantess had sickly pale skin which contrasted with red mid-length hair that at first glance was similar to Nia’s but in a much darker shade and a straight texture. Her face while pale seemed at first flawless in complexion, but as she turned her head Grey could make out two large scars, one streaking across her eye in a vertical fashion while the other was cut diagonally across her cheek. While her scars and attire made her unique among the giants Grey had seen, the thing that truly separated her was the dagger she held in her hand.

The blade was curved with a mesh like pattern that was present across the flat of the blade. Grey had heard of weapon made with steel in a similar design, but had never seen them in person. It was supposedly a type of steel made in far off kingdoms known as damascus steel. Supposedly weapons of this nature were renowned for being more durable then the average steel blade.

As the giant made her way across the room, Grey was thrown off guard by the manner in which she moved. She walked with diligence in every step that even though her footsteps were large didn’t make even the faintest hint of noise. Yet this did not slow her in the least, moving across the room with surprising subtle speed that made Grey’s careful footwork look sloppy in comparison.

The giant’s eyes were vigilant as they scanned the room causing Grey to quickly pull his head behind cover. The situation was worse than he thought. The one advantage humans had over giants was their small size. Grey often banked on the idea that he could keep himself hidden and use a giant’s large and oblivious nature against them. This giant was too onguard for that to work. Even worse was the fact Grey was without his sword and bow and no way to defend himself. Though by the look of the blade the giant held he wanted to avoid any confrontation with her.

Turning back to Nia, Grey could see that his silence was only making her nervous. He had to say something to her.

“We need to stay hidden for now.” Grey began saying. “At least until we have an opportunity to run for the door. Until then we can’t stay here, were too out in the open. For now stay quiet, stay low and follow my lead.”

Nia gave a nod of confirmation.

As the giant continued her way across the room, her eyes shifted from one spot to another. She walked by the table without the slightest bit of hesitation. Grey breathed a sigh of relief. It didn’t seem like she had noticed them yet.

Once the giant was past the table, Grey stuck his head out again in order to look for a new hiding spot. Most of the furniture in the room did little to help them, either it was too far away to risk running to, or provided too little coverage for it to be worth the risk. But as Grey scoured the room he spotted a place that might just do, the bookshelf. With it’s back against the wall and a gap between the bottom shelf and the floor it was the perfect spot of them to take cover under. The distance was still considerably far off, with a large open area of floor between them and it. It would be risky to cross, but with the giant having just passed by, they might have a chance while her back was still turned.  

Grey tapped Nia on the shoulder, bringing her attention to the shelf. Looking at the distance they would need to travel Nia looked at Grey and gave him a decisive nod. He quickly looked back to monitor the giant’s position. She appeared to be focused on approaching the door, meaning this was as good a time as any. Turning back to Nia, Grey held up three fingers and counted down.

Three. Two. One.

Grey quickly turned the corner and began sprinting as fast as his legs would carry him.

Running like this felt familiar. Many times in his life Grey had often found himself running away from danger. Either from a group of street bullies as a kid or the city guard as an adult. Dashing down alleyways at night or a large open floor midday, nothing made a person run faster than the threat of potential death.

The bookshelf was coming up faster than he realized. Before he knew it Grey was already passing under the lower shelf, the light cut off as he stepped under the shadow of the massive structure. Grey relaxed and took in a deep breath. He was surprised to find himself hardly even tired. In the past a sprint like that would have left his gasping, but here was feeling perfectly fine. Not only that but it was probably the fastest he had ever run. All those weeks of endurance at The Keep still paid off in the end.

“Looks like our training wasn’t for nothing.” Grey said a little more relaxed.

Grey expected a reply but surprised when he heard nothing. Turning around Grey went to see why she was quiet and found his answer. Back out on the floor about halfway from the bookshelf, lied Nia on the ground, covering her mouth to keep from screaming as she struggled to stand. Grey realized immediately what must have happened. Her leg had finally given out.

Grey knew since the beginning of the journey that all that travel was bad for her leg. While it had been mostly restored due to Trinity’s magic, the wound was still was far from fully healed. Weeks of endless travel on foot and little rest had only worked to undo the help the magic had done. While she would occasionally wince or grunt on the road Grey had expected that so long as they reached Jule’s home everything would be fine, but instead it had all taken a toll for the worse.

The giant at this point had made it to the door. Putting her back to the wall, she paused, raising her dagger as if waiting to strike as soon as someone came through. She peered cautiously out the window, before slowly and carefully reaching her hand for the door knob. Grey knew the giant wasn’t going to be distracted forever. If he was going to act he needed to do it now.

Grey ran, keeping low incase the giant’s attention turned at a moments notice. Once he reached Nia he knelt down to her side to check on her condition. She was breathing heavily through her teeth as she struggled to fight off the pain.

“Hey, hey. Just look at me.” Grey said in an attempt to calm her. ”It’s going to be okay.”

Nia looked into his eyes and forced herself to nod.

“Can you stand?”

“I… I don’t think I can… Grey… it’s bad.”

“I know. Listen we can-”

“Nothing.” The giant’s voice rang out.

Grey looked up as the giant twirled the dagger in her hand and sheathed it at her hip.

“New plan.” Grey said. “Stay still and don’t move. No matter what.”

Grey dropped to his stomach lying motionless on the floor besides Nia. He knew this  location wasn’t ideal, they were out in the open but with Nia in the condition that she was he couldn’t hope to move her now. Grey’s just prayed that if they stayed still the giant just would past them without ever noticing. Hopefully she didn’t have a reason to look down.

Nia’s breathing grew more uneven as a mixture of pain and panic set in. Grey grabbed her hand, and held it tightly.

“We are going to be okay.” he whispered.

The look in her eyes showed his insistence did little to ease her concern. So Grey did the next best thing. Leaning in forward he met her lips with his embracing her in a long kiss before slowly pulling away.

“I promise.” he repeated.

Despite the pain she must have been in Nia smiled at him.

“I trust you.” she whispered back.

“I could have swore it detected something. Damn spell must be wearing off.” The giant voice rang once more.

The giant walked back, this time taking less care with her footwork as she walked.  

Grey had hoped the giant would return to the room, but she didn’t. Approaching  the dining room table, the giant turned and with a quick spring in her step, lifted herself and sat on the table.

“This assignment is becoming a waste of my time. How much longer are they going to keep me here?” The giantess lamented to herself unaware of her tiny audience. “If only I had something to do...”

With that the giantess fell backwards onto the table, staring up at the ceiling with a bored expression. Grey slowly got to his feet. With the giant’s attention once again diverted this was their chance to move. Still holding on to Nia’s hand Grey motioned her up.

Pulling Nia to her feet she attempted to stand on her leg. This proved to be a bad idea as she once again lost balance letting out a small involuntary cry as she hit the ground. Grey moved in to catch her, putting an arm behind her back, and kneeling to the ground. Nia opened her mouth to speak but he shushed her. Grey quickly glanced up at the table, where the giant remained laying with no indication that she had heard them.

“Nia, can you put weight on the other leg?” Grey whispered.

“I think so...”

Grey nodded. Throwing her arm over his shoulders Grey lifted Nia back to her feet. Using his body as support Nia pressed her other foot to the ground managing to stand. Making an attempt to move, Grey waited as Nia swung her foot forward as he supporting her weight. It was still a long way from the bookshelf, and with Nia’s leg in the condition that it was, making it back to the door was going to be difficult. But what mattered right now was getting to cover, so long as they took it one step at a time they just might make it out of this.

Grey was alerted too late as massive fingers closed in around them, hoisting the couple into the air. Before he realized what was happening Grey and Nia were brought before a set of pale smiling lips.

“Just as things were getting dull.”

A wave of warm breath wafted over them as the giant spoke.

Standing up from a crouching position, the giant stood at full height, marveling at her prey. With a toss of her hair she made her way towards the kitchen counter, staring at her captives with a devious grin.

“Nia... ” Grey began. “Are you alr-”

Grey involuntarily let out a cry alongside Nia as the giant squeezed them together in her hand.

“I don’t believe I gave you permission to speak. From now on you will only speak when I say you can. Understood?”

Grey and Nia exchanged a uncertain look. Neither of them sure on how to respond. Once again the giant’s grip tightened, this time not stopping.

“I believe I asked a question. Do. You. Understand?”

“Yes!” Nia cried out, the pressure increasing the pain in her leg.

“Understood!” Grey shouted back.

Satisfied with her control over them she relaxed her grip slightly. Leaning forward against the counter, she folded her free arm underneath her elbow as she held the two at eye level.

“You know, I thought something was off when my detection spell activated. It sensed that two individuals had entered the parameter. You’re not who I was expecting but that's fine, I was getting bored of waiting so it’s nice to have something to pass the time with.” The giant licked her lips, as if to empathise the point.

Grey had recognized the scare tactic she was trying to use. She knew that humans feared being eaten, and wanted to use this fear to frightened them. But Grey had dealt with this before, while he knew she would definitely act on that threat, it sounded more like she wanted to keep them alive. At least for a little while. Honestly he didn’t know which would be worse, but so long as they were alive that meant there was still a chance to escape.

“So, my little couple. You are a couple, aren’t you?”

“We are.” Grey stated boldly.

The giant hadn’t expected such a quick answer, and out of the corner of his eye it was apparent neither did Nia. He even noticed her blush slightly, a gesture that hadn’t gone unnoticed by the giant as her eyes shifted between the two.

“Interesting... so tell me what are a couple of humans doing so far away from your kingdom?”

Grey opened his mouth to answer her.

“Oh no. Not you.” The giant said as she looked at Nia. “I want her to answer me this time.”

“Shit.”

Nia didn’t know how to answer. She looked to Grey for help but the giant brought her finger down turning Nia face back to her.

“I’m the one your talking to, so don’t look at him.”

“We… we were looking for a place to hide.” Nia said.

“In a giant's home?” the giant responded skeptically.

“We heard it was empty.” Grey quickly added.

The giant’s eyes snapped back to his direction, as her face expressed her annoyance.

“Speak out of line again...” her eyes shifted to Nia with a smirk. “...then I’ll eat her.”

Nia’s face turned pale as the giant said that.

“Sounds like a fair arrangement doesn’t it?” the giant teased. “The same goes for you too ‘Red’. Either of you speak out of line and you’ll watch as I eat the other. Sound good?”

Exchanging another glance Nia and Grey, both nodded.The giantess smiled.

“Good, now that we’ve established the rules, let's move on. Oh and ‘Blondie’.” The giant said motioning to Grey. “I’m not in the habit of giving second chances, so I watch what you have to say from here on out. Now then, since your so keen on answering you can answer my next question. How did you find this place?”

“From our village.” Grey answered. “We are from a village not too far from the giant lands. There were rumors of a giant in this area, and lately those rumors stopped. We figured it would be safe to come out here.”

The giant nodded suspiciously.

“Alright. Now Red, question for you.” She said turning her attention to Nia. “Where did your boyfriend get that hunter’s cloak?”

Grey’s heart felt as if it skipped a beat. During all the commotion he hadn’t even thought she would notice what he was wearing let alone recognize it. The giant taking a quick glance at Grey saw his surprised expression and cocked an eyebrow.

“What? You thought I wouldn't notice?” she turned her attention back to Nia. “Well?”

“He… he uhh... found it.” Nia answered hesitantly.

The giant didn’t even try to hide her skepticism.

“He found it?”

“We, or as we were traveling. We found a dead man. We are very poor and don’t have a lot of money so...”

“You looted a corpse for it.” The giant thought it over. “I suppose that's plausible, though I still find it unlikely.”

“Do...” Nia began.

She quickly stopped speaking. Grey froze as the giant looked her over, almost if trying to decide if that counted as speaking out of line. She ultimately motioned for her to continue.

“Do you think he’s a hunter? I mean you caught us so quickly, hunters are supposed to be strong aren’t they?”

“Tch.” The giant laughed. “For a half wit maybe. Any capable giant knows a hunter doesn’t pose much of a threat, especially not themselves.” The giant looked over Grey, thinking for a moment. “I suppose you're right though. You two didn’t pose much of a challenge, so you're either not a hunter or your pretty pathetic one even by human standards.”

Grey wanted to bring up the fact that she had overlooked them more than once, but held his tongue.

“Well now Blondie. I’ll ask you this. Hunter or not, now that I’ve caught you, what should I do with you?”

This question was obviously a trap. She was trying to lead him into something, either get him to beg for freedom, or try bargaining for their lives. He was certain she had already made up her mind on what to do with them and answering her would only bring about this fate quicker. Grey needed to do something different, something she wouldn’t expect.

“Can I ask you a question first?”

“What? Do you want to know if i’ll let you go? Do you have some last request your hoping I’ll fulfill?”

“Well you asked us what I was doing here, I’m just curious why you're here?”

She chuckled a bit. “How do you know I don’t live here?”

“For one when we first saw you, you were sneaking around with a weapon in your hand. Not only that but when you said your spell detected something you said you were expecting someone else, on top of that earlier you said something about being here on an assignment, all of that together would imply you're not the giant that lives here.”

The giant’s eyes narrowed.

“Well aren’t you the clever human.” her voice had lost all tone of amusement. “Too clever actually. You think you’re very perceptive don’t you? Before I answer your question why don’t you answer my original question. Since you’re ‘so perceptive’ what do you think my plans for you are?”

Back to this again. Although her demeanor was now a lot less playful.

“I think you’re going to keep us around for a bit. I’ll admit, I don’t know how long. You’ll most likely dispose of us by eating us when your done. But as you expressed earlier you’re bored. You’ve been here for some time so my guess is you want us alive long enough to entertain you. Although your very to the point, so you aren’t going to spend too much time on that, just enough to get over your immediate boredom. I’ll would probably guess no longer than a day. Is that about right?”

The look on her face told him that it was. It was apparent she didn’t like that a human had managed to read her

“You think your cleverness is going to help you don’t you? Well let me just say it’s starting to piss me off. But fine, I’ll answer your question. Like you said, you won’t be around for much longer.

“I’m here because I need to kill someone. Someone very dangerous. Someone that a person like you should be grateful I’m here to kill. I was sent because I’m skilled enough to do it. Meaning, i’m someone you should be a lot more careful around. In fact Blondie, since you’re so perceptive and all, let me show you how perceptive I am.”

Grey couldn’t help but feel he had made a great mistake.

”I’m not the first giant you’ve met.”

Grey paused. “How do you-” he began saying.

“I thought so. You see your girlfriend here is frightened to death, you on the other hand are handling this all very well. Not only that but you didn't even bat an eye when I mentioned my spell. To most lowborn humans that would be something that left them confused. It makes me believe that hunter cloak of yours was not just found like your girlfriend suggested. You’ve dealt with and survived encounters with giants before. You know about our magic and what the best of us are capable of doing. That’s fine, but let me tell you one thing, I guarantee you’ve never met a giant like me, because if you had you wouldn’t be here right now, and you won’t be around later to claim that you did.”

“First time for everything.” Grey instinctively shot back.

The giant looked at him with a smiled. Grey’s heart sank realizing what he had just done.

“I just said that out loud didn’t I.”

“Yup.” The giant said. “I think i’m going to count that.”

Before Grey could act the giant plucked Nia away with her free hand. Nia and him looked at each other in horror as they realized what was about to happen.

“I’ll be honest, I’m really happy it’s working out this way.” The giant stated.

She lowered the hand with Grey to be about level with her chest as she lifted Nia overhead.

“Despite your arrogance Blondie you are undoubtedly the more interesting of the two. Though after this I’m sure you’ll have learned your lesson.”

The giant brought Nia closer to her face as she struggled to pull herself break free from the giant’s grasp. The giant opened her mouth and allowed her tongue to snake out past her lips, sliding the appendage up the length of Nia’s body. Nia screamed as the front part of her became coated in a thick layer of saliva.

“You can’t do this!” Grey yelled.

The giant’s tongue receded back into her mouth. She looked back at Grey with a sadistic grin.

“Oh, I’m sure you’ll find I not only can, but I am.”

She parted her lips once more, allowing Nia full view of what awaited her inside. Nia tensed in fear as tears began streaking down the sides of her face, desperately pulling to get away.

“Grey, please!” she cried. “Help me!”

Grey couldn’t do anything but watch as the giant moved Nia closer to her open mouth. All while Nia struggled and cried out for help. It was agony to watch knowing he was powerless to stop it. If only there was something he could do, something he could say... then it hit him. There was something he could say. Something that might save Nia’s life.

Don’t.

“I have to do it. It’s the only way.”

 

No. Not this. There is another way, just don’t mention…

“Amelia!” Grey shouted.

The giant halted. She had closed her eyes in anticipation of savoring her meal, but as soon as that name was spoken her eyes had shot back open. The giant lowed Nia as she turned her full attention to Grey.

“What did you just say?”

“Amelia, that’s who you’re here for. She’s your target.”

The giant was at a complete loss.

“How do you-”

“She was here. I saw her.” Grey continued, not waiting for her to finish.

The giantess frowned.

“I knew there was something odd about you. Tell me what you know then.”

“No.” Grey shot back. “Not until you let Nia go. She has nothing to do with this, if you let her go then I’ll tell you everything you want to know.”

Grey, you're making a mista-

“No.” The giant said. Grey was taken aback.

“What? Don’t you believe me, I know things I can prove it!” Grey shouted, coming across more desperate than he intended.

“I don’t doubt that human.” she said, a dangerous coldness in her voice. “The fact that you know my target is proof enough.”

“But… Nia, she has nothing-”

“Yes I heard you.” she continued. “Nothing to do with this. All the more reason to dispose of her.”

“If you do... if you do I won’t tell you anything!”

“Oh, that’s where you’re very wrong. I have ways of making people talk. Willingness is not a factor. You’ll talk, I’ll make sure of that. You say your girlfriend here knows nothing? All the more reason to get rid of her. But don’t be so down. I promise you won’t be apart for long. Once I’ve gotten what I need you can join her. Your cooperation will only determine how much of her is left when you do.”

Nia was lifted above the giants head once more as she tilted her head back and rolled out her tongue.

“Wait, not her! Please just l take me instead!”

Grey cried as he pounded his fist against the giant’s fingers. If only he had a sword or a knife or something... then maybe, just maybe he could stop her. He threw his fists against her hand defeated. Laying his face forward against the giant’s thick flesh Grey began to cry. He felt so useless.

You’ve made a mistake.

“I… I just wanted to save her...”

You’ve betrayed Amelia, and all for nothing.

“I… I… was just trying too… I couldn’t do it… I couldn’t save Nia...”

Then fight back.

“How? I’m not strong enough. I don’t have weapons, I don’t have special powers, I don’t have anything...”

 

Then will it.

Will it? Will what? Against a giant he was powerless. He should’ve learned that the first time. He wasn’t like Zeke, he didn’t have magic he could call upon. If Zeke had been here the situation would have already been dealt with. But Zeke wasn’t coming, not this time. The irony was that Grey had assured that he wouldn’t; being to busy chasing after a false lead he had set up for him.

Grey was jealous, of Zeke and his power. Accomplishing feats that Grey could only dream of. Yet even without it Grey tried. Training for two years only for it to amount to nothing in the end. What was the point of training if it meant that he was still powerless. Powerless to stop giants, powerless to help Nia. He wanted to desperately to be something special, as if he was meant for something more. But in the end he could only imagine. Imagine himself standing there sword in hand, facing down the giant and charging her, slaying her with one fell swoop before rescuing Nia from her grasp. But it was all just a fantasy, the truth was he couldn’t do any of those things. He was just powerless.  

Will it.

Grey picked up his head, tears obscuring his vision. As he looked up he expected to see a horrific scene. Nia being taken into the giant’s mouth and watching as the lump that was her descend down the giant’s throat. But what he saw instead was a person, a person carrying a sword and donning a hunter's cloak.

Grey’s eyes widened as he looked at the mysterious figure, unable to see his face with his back turned to him.

“Zeke?”

 

 

 

Jade felt the heat of her victim's body in her hand as she carried her kicking and screaming over her open mouth.

As she prepared to drop the frantic human inside she noticed a small figure out of the corner of her eye. Stopping what she was doing Jade couldn’t believe what she saw. It was him, the blonde hunter. He was free and standing on her wrist, and worst of all he was now carrying a sword.

Jade didn’t know how to interpret this. How had he escaped, and where did he get that weapon? The strangest thing was she could still feel him in her hand yet there he was standing right there, confident, angry and... had his hair always been that light? Before Jade had the chance to analyze the situation further, he came charging at her. Running up her arm with speed she thought impossible for a human. Hell he moved so quickly she could hardly even feel him. As he approached with frightening speed the hunter rose his sword ready to attack. Instinctively Jade freed both of her hands. Dropping the woman from one she brought a hand up to shield her face, while the other dropped down for her dagger.  

 

 

 

The hunter didn’t respond as he darted up the giant’s arm with blinding speed. Grey felt the fingers around him loosen as he began to fall. Thinking quick Grey reached out, grabbing the edge of the giants belt to stop his fall. He didn’t have the luxury to catch his breath as he heard Nia plummeting from above. Without hesitating Grey jumped, catching Nia in an embrace as they both tumbled and rolled out onto the floor.

Grey groaned, having taken most of the impact. Shakily he rose to his feet, before checking on Nia.

“You okay?” he asked

“I think so.” she answered in obvious pain.

Nia’s looked up as Grey offered her a hand, but instead of looking at him she looked at the sight going on behind him.

“Grey, what's going on?”

From down on the floor Grey was able to catch a quick glimpse of the hunter engaging the giant. But what astonished by what he saw. The hunter that was attacking the giant looked almost identical to himself

Jumping from one spot to another, and keeping in balance with the giants movements Grey witness feats of skill he had only ever seen someone like Zeke accomplish, and even then he was unsure if Zeke could match the movements he saw. In fact at the speed at which the hunter moved it appeared as if the giantess was being put on the defensive. Her free hand shot down to her side, and with a flash she unsheathed her dagger and swung at the hunter. At first Grey was sure that her strike had hit, but to all of their surprise the hunter continued his attack unphased, barely giving any time for the giant to react.

“I… I don’t know who that is...” Grey replied at a loss.

Taking a moment to access the situation Grey saw an opportunity. Grabbing Nia by the shoulder Grey wasted no time in explaining.

“Whatever is going on we can’t wait around to find out, we need to go while we still can.”

Helping Nia to her feet once more, carried her on his shoulders. They needed to make it to the door, who ever this person was they had given them a chance to escape, and Grey didn’t intend to let that chance go to waste.

 

 

 

Jade kept on her guard as she tried to figure out a solution to deal with this hunter. He was fast, unbelievably so. Multiple times during their engagement had she thought she landed a fatal blow, only for him to come out of it unharmed. All the while he kept on the offensive, making attempts to slice at her throat, face, eyes, anything vital. Despite his tiny size Jade knew if given the chance the hunter’s sword would be strong to kill.

The hunter landed on the blade of her dagger, using his momentum he launch himself into another jump. Jade couldn’t react fast enough as he made a direct line for her throat, readying his sword to slice. Jade brought a hand to her throat out of reflex, expecting to feel blood from an open wound. After a moment a moment's hesitation she realized nothing was there. No blood, no pain, it was as if he missed her. She was certain that he had hit, at the trajectory he was going he would have gone right through her otherwise.

Frantically Jade began looking for the human. Turning around she found him standing on the kitchen counter with a cocky smile and his sword still in hand. No blood on it though.

She was at a loss. How had he managed to get behind her, it was physically impossible. He would have had to go right through her body... then a thought crossed Jade’s mind.

Swing her dagger at the hunter Jade paid close attention to where she hit him. The hunter moved quickly but not quick enough to fully escape the blade’s edge. Yet as it hit him it made no signs of physical contact, as if she was attacking air.

“An illusion.” She murmured.

The hunter jumped at her once more in an attempt to kill  her. This time Jade sheathed her blade and did nothing, waiting for him to hit. Again she felt nothing as the hunter seemingly passed through her with no regards to physics. Having determined the trick Jade quickly turned her attention to the floor where she saw the two real humans nearly approaching the door.

“Enough playing around.” She said as she reached for her belt.

Jade pulled out a small glass container which was filled with a thick white vapor. She tossed it in the direction of the humans, the glass shattering and surrounding them in a pale toxic cloud.

 

 

 

Nia and Grey’s progress was interrupted by a loud shattering sound. Before either of them knew what had happened they were engulfed in a white mist. Grey instinctively tried to hold his breath but it was too late as he had already inhaled too much during the initial burst. Feeling his body tense, Grey’s muscles locked into place. He lost all control of his body as his limbs caved and he found himself falling to the floor. All attempts he made to move were useless as he couldn’t even find the strength to speak.

“I wouldn’t struggle if I were you.” he heard the giant say, her now audible footsteps alluded to her approach. “That mixture was made to paralyze other giants, a human like yourself has no hope of resisting its effects. Under normal circumstances I wouldn’t have wasted such an expensive concoction on something like you, but you hunter, you just casted that spell a moment ago.

“Honestly i’m embarrassed I fell for something so trivial, if you weren’t human I would have never expected that trick to work. I can’t be too hard on myself though, how could I expect someone like you to use magic. None of our reports on The Trinity mention anyone matching your description or utilizing that kind of magic. Meaning your something new.”

The gas dissipated as Grey and Nia were left to face their captor. Waving away some of the excess vapors, the giant knelt down and grabbed them both; one in each hand. Unable to move there was nothing either of them could to do stop her.

“I have to thank you though.” the giant said as she lifted Grey to her face. “You knowing about Amelia and that little trick you just pulled has given me enough reason to report back. So congratulations are in order Blondie, you get to live a little bit longer.”

Carrying Nia to be level with Grey she glanced between them before flashing them a sinister smile.

“As for her? Well, we can’t be leaving loose ends can we?”

The giant’s lips parted as she tilted her head back bringing Nia closer to her mouth. She made sure to hold Grey in a spot where he would have the perfect view of what was about to happen. Nia didn’t scream or struggle as the giant placed delicately placed her in her mouth. From where he was held Grey could still see Nia’s face. Her expression was numb from the toxin but her eyes expressed the fear that her face couldn’t as a pair of giants lips closed behind her. The giant tilted her head back in a quick jerk, wasting no time with sending her prey to the back of her throat, all the while Grey could only watch speechless as a bulge descended down her neck, disappearing behind the line of her chest.

The giant breathed out a content sigh, patting her stomach in self gratification.

“That took far too long to do.”

She turned to Grey, and opened her mouth, allowing him to gaze inside the now empty maw. The back of her throat twitched as she began to speak.

“Might as well say goodbye while you can.” she teased before closing her mouth with a smile. “Oh wait, I guess you can’t say much of anything right now.”

Reaching for her side the giant retrieved a small cloth pouch, holding it open with one hand she dangled Grey over it with the other.

“Better get comfortable, it’s a long way back to The City.”

That was the last thing Grey heard before the giant dropped him inside, closing the pouch and sealing him in darkness.

 

Confined within the darkness Grey had lost all sense of the passing of time. No light seeped into pouch prison and as the world around him shifted and swayed with each step of his captor, the hours and minutes blended together making it impossible to tell how long they had been traveling. The only method he had to even attempt to keep track, were through the subtle movements of the giantess as she went about her daily routine.

Being stuck to her hip Grey was present for it all, whether she was eating, sleeping or answering the call of nature. Yet even with the constant reminder that there was someone else besides him Grey couldn’t help but feel isolated from the world. In truth he prefer this, rather be cut off from the world then be forced to talk with the monster that took Nia from him.

Their journey together had been mostly spent in silence. The giant was not one for conversation, in fact the only only time she had attempted to speak to him was after leaving Jule’s home on the first night.

She had tried to interrogate him, hoping learn something about his supposed “magic”. Grey refused to speak, but in truth he knew little to nothing about what happened. In fact if it hadn’t been the giant insisting it was so, Grey would’ve never thought to think that the hunter that came to save him was actually an illusion he created himself. That's what she had called it, an illusionary. Apparently basic magic and easy to conjure, but still thought to be impossible for a human to create.  

When the scar faced giant failed to get him to talk, she began asking about Amelia. Grey refused to answer again, opting to remain silent and this time only partially because of ignorance. This time the giant did not accept silence as an answer. She tortured him, tortured him for what felt like maybe an hour, though Grey knew it was probably less. She squeezed and crushed him, threatening to break limbs and shatter bones, yet she never did. Looking back on the experience the thing that frightened Grey the most was how delicate she had been with him. A giant of her size could have easily made good on their promise, most giants might have broken or even killed him just on accident due to how strong they were. At any time she could have done this, leave him a mangled mess of skin and bone even by accident, yet she never did. She tittered the line a few times but she never crossed it, and it was that skill that frightened him the must.

Through the torture Grey remembered trying to be strong, keep quiet and avoid giving the giant even the smallest of answers. Grey wished he could say that he had remained strong but in reality he cried, screamed and even begged her to stop on more than one occasion. There were even a few times he came close to talking, but somehow he didn’t. Even while enduring the pain and screaming for it to end, something within him kept him from talking and so  eventually the giant grew bored with him and opted to wait until they arrived at their destination.

Yet before packing him away for the trip, the giant couldn’t help but throw one more insult his way. Lowering Grey to her midriff, the giantess pressed him against her firm stomach, allowing him to hear horrific sounds as her body digested its contents.

“You hear that? That's what your girlfriend’s going through. You know if you just give me the answers I want, I could happily reunite you now. I don’t know how much of her would be left but, if you're lucky there just might be enough to get in a quick fuck before you’re digested too.”

Grey’s blood boiled and he lost it. He screamed every last filthy word he had picked up while living in the streets, crying out his hate for the giant, but his insults did little more than amuse her. Before she dropped him back into the pouch she left him with one final message.

“You know what you have to say to make this all end. Just let me know when your ready.”

That was the last time they had spoken since the journey began. Grey could feel the world go by as the she walked, and hear the ground shake with every passing step but, from that day forth he was cut off from the outside world. Occasionally she would open the pouch, trickling in water or specks of food that Grey would eagerly claw for as hunger and thirst plagued him, but these moments were few and far between leaving him mostly in isolation.

Being left with so much time Grey found that the easiest thing to do was sleep. Sleep helped pass the time, or so he had hoped as he was never really sure. Sometimes his captor would be asleep when he was, and other times she would be up and moving. Every waking moment was long and brought with it intense boredom, but even sleep was not the escape he hoped for. While difficult, when he did find time to sleep Grey found he dreams were plagued with nightmares.  

One of these nightmares started with Grey being rescued by Zeke from the giantess.  While at first pleasant things took a bad turned as they returned to The Hunter’s Keep. He was dragged through the courtyard in chains only to find Barron and the rest of the council presented as he was escorted to the gallows.

Another such nightmare involved Grey walking into Jule’s home alone hoping to find her after his long travels back. Sneaking into the giant’s house Grey would find her, and while he was excited to see her it quickly became apparent that she didn’t know who he was. Grey woke up from this nightmare just as he had been caught and about to be eaten, all while Grey frantically tried to remind her of who he was.

Yet there was one that stuck with him throughout the journey. It started with Nia and himself back at The Keep. They were both standing at the front gate, Grey prepared to depart for Jule’s home as he begged Nia to join him. She was reluctant to go but he insisted she join. Eventually she surrendered and agreed to go. At this point the world around them began to change, instead of standing in The Keep, they both stood inside a hellish looking place with pulsing flesh like walls. Nia face was partially dissolved giving way to muscle and bone as she assured how much she trusted him. Even after waking up, and coming to terms that what had happened in the dream didn’t match reality, Grey was still haunted by the sight of Nia’s half digest face, occasionally picturing it in the dark as if her spirit haunted him.

This had been Grey’s life for the past few days, waking from one nightmare to another as he was brought back to consciousness in the timeless hell that was his prison. However as Grey awoke this morning he was aroused by new sensations unlike those he was used to. The smell of manure filled his nostrils and the sound voices stirred him awake as he sat up and began trying to envision the outside world.

Voices of women, children and men at work in the fields painted a clear image of the countryside in Grey’s mind, yet the booming voices and shaking of the ground scaled this image to a much larger size. A few of the locals would occasionally stop and even attempt to greet his captor as she walked through, though they were lucky if they got so much as a sneer in return.

“Quite the social butterfly.”

The pleasant passing greetings, followed by mostly under the breath insults were not the only voices Grey could make out while passing through town. At one point he managed to catch wind of a small game the local children attempt to play. While he didn’t understand the rules entirely the goal seemed to be to get as close as they could to the “scary woman” before being caught. The stifled giggles of the kids as they played this went on for a time until his captor finally stopped, making a quick and aggressive turn around and causing to children to flee in blissful fright.

Grey couldn’t help but smile. He used to play a very similar game with the other street urchins in his childhood. Except the goal then was usually to steal a coin pouch off of a guard’s belt, and then run away before they could be beaten.

The giant came to a sudden stop as Grey heard the sound of a wooden door creaking open, the sounds of music, voices and laughter spilling out from whatever was inside. Grey could make out voices of both men and women as they flirted amongst themselves, some attempting to harmonize their voices with the music to varying degrees of success. Friends cursed each other, strangers challenged each other to gamble, and in the distance Grey could hear a hoist of cheers before the clinking of metal cups. These sounds painted a clear picture of a tavern, and brought with them fond memories. Lusty men attempting to cup the tavern maid’s ass, drunk friends urging encouraging each other to spend their last gold on another drink, and a table where men would gamble with weighted dice. All distant memories of a life now gone.

Apparently not interested in the activities of the other patrons, Grey’s captor maneuvered swiftly through the crowd before coming to another just as swift stop.

“What will you be having today miss?” a pleasant sounding man asked.

Grey expected to hear a response but was thrown off as he heard the sound of coins spilling out onto a wooden surface.

“One room.” he heard the giantess say. “I expect a meal, something to drink, and above else my privacy.”

“Y… yes…” the owner responded. “You’ll find your room up the stairs and first door to your right.”

Grey felt his captor move once more without so much as a thank you as she made her way up the creaking steps. Opening the door she slammed it behind her as she walked inside. Grey’s pouch prison suddenly began to shake as it was lifted off her belt. The top opened spilling light inside as the pouch slowly began to tilt, causing Grey to stumble towards the opening. Quickly maneuvering towards the mouth of the pouch Grey landed on his feet, bouncing slightly as he landed on a soft and cushioned surface. Taking in his new surrounding Grey found himself standing in the middle of a large bed in a very sparse looking room. Besides the bed itself there was only a small nightstand topped with a candle besides it.

The ground shook suddenly and Grey nearly found himself throwing into the air as a massive leather clad rear landed directly next to him. The giant having just sat down let out a content sigh, before falling onto her back exhausted. Grey seeing a window to escape didn’t waste a second as he began running across the length of the bed, as if predicting him to do this the giant’s hand swooped down, catching him almost absent mindedly as she lifted him over her face.

“You’re pathetic you know that?” she said keeping Grey at face level as she sat up. “Though I have to thank for getting me out of that house. I was going crazy with all the time I had on my hands.”

Grey didn’t say a word, instead returning her comment with a cold stare.

“No longer the the talkative type, huh? What spoiled the mood? Traveling in my pouch, keeping your starved, or was it me eating your girlfriend?”

Grey remained silent.

“Funny, I thought that last one would get you going.”

The giant shifted, crossing her legs as she began playing with Grey in her hand, shifting him between her fingers and slightly prodding at his body almost as he were a toy. Being handled in such a way was discomforting but Grey fought from letting that show, much to the amusement of his captress as she watched his futile attempts to remain straight faced.

“It’s funny.” she said. “Your trying so hard to ‘look tough’ but you amount to nothing more than a stress toy… actually it’s kinda nice. This job has so many stresses and zero time for myself. All that stress can leave one so tense...”

The giantess paused. She looked Grey over. Smiled formed on her lips that sent a shiver down his spine.

“You know...” she said seductively, as she slowly began lowering him. “Maybe you can help me take the edge off. I mean it’s been so long since I ‘had a little fun’, and your just the right size to help me do that.”

“No! No! No! No! No! I would rather die that let this psychotic bitch use me like a-”

The giant let out a sudden burst of laughter as she brought Grey back to her face. Seeing the bright red flustered look on his face she couldn’t help but smirk.

“Oh please, you didn’t really think I was serious did you?” she laughed. “I’m not so desperate that I would lower myself to such acts. But maybe you wouldn’t mind, if your girlfriend was anything to go by then bet you got a thing for redheads like me. You know I bet if you just close your eyes and lose yourself in the moment you could just pretend that I was her, except a much better lover.”

“Keep talking about her and i’ll...” Grey muttered himself.

The giant turned her head towards him mockingly, cupping a hand to her ear as if to hear him better.

“What was that? Try saying that again so I can't hear you.”

“I said keep talking and i’ll make you regret it!!” Grey snapped, having his own regrets immediately after.

The giant looked surprised at first by the sudden outburst, before her lips slowly pursed into a smile.

“Is that a fact?”

Loosening her grip on him, the giant dropped Grey onto the bed.

“Go on then. Do something.” she whispered. “Make me regret it.”

Looking at the leather clad giant towering over him Grey clenched his fists. He hated her, despised her more than anyone else in his life, but he powerless. Even if he had a weapon there was nothing he could hope to do to her, not even trying escape was an option as she had already proved on multiple occasions that catching him was little more than childs play.

“Pathetic.”

The giant grabbed Grey with no resistant as she stood up from the bed.

“What a sorry sight you are.” she said. “I think i’ve had enough for now. I’m going down to grab a drink to help me loosen up, but before I do that...”

Reaching down to her belt the giant produced a small empty glass bottle. With one hand she flicked the cock of the top before dropping Grey inside. She walked over to the nightstand and placed him and his new prison on top.

“I’ll be back before long, then the real fun can begin.”

Making her way to the door the giant shut it behind her, leaving Grey in the room alone. Trapped within his new glass confines, Grey was at a loss. The last thing he wanted to do was to stick around. His captor already had a sadistic sense of fun and he didn’t want to know what she was willing to do after a drink or two. Looking around the bottle Grey found that the giant had left the top open. From where he stood reaching it appeared impossible, but perhaps if he could gain enough momentum he could make it. At first Grey simply jumped, trying to determine far out of reach the top of the bottle was. Taking in the distance of the walls Grey began to ponder. During his training, Zeke had often called him the most agile of the group, it was time to see if that were true.

Taking a few steps back Grey took a running start towards the wall, jumping up and kicking off the glass. Grey managed to gain a little more height then before, just managing to graze the top with the tips of his fingers before he fell. As he landed hower Grey heard a loud clunk as the jar settled back on the wooden surface. Perking up he realized that while kicking off the wall, he had caused the jar to shift slightly. With this realization Grey formed a new plan, if he couldn’t jump to the top, then he could knock the bottle over.

Performing the same maneuver repeatedly, putting as much force into each kick off the wall, Grey slowly moved to bottle across the nightstand inch by inch. Eventually it stopped precariously close to the edge. Hoping for the best Grey shoved off with one final kick, causing the jar with him inside to fall to the floor. Fortunately the glass was thick enough to keep from shattering on impact, instead hitting the ground with a large thunk and rolling on it’s side. For Grey the sudden landing was enough to leave him bruised and more than just a little dazed, but climbing to his feet he was able to walk himself out of the prison and out onto the floor.

Taking this moment Grey observed his surroundings. His instinct was to run for the door, but hesitated on doing so. He knew his captor would be back soon and going for the door was too risky, besides that he wasn’t sure what other giants he might run into if he to go towards the halls. As he took a moment to consider alternate options Grey became increasingly aware of the sound of music bleeding in from downstairs. Looking to see where the sound was was coming from Grey spotted a small hole in the floorboards not too far from the nightstand. While a decent distance away it looked large enough for him to fit through, and while he wasn’t sure where it lead it was better than sticking around here.

Just as Grey took his first step towards the hole, the door to the room swung open halting him in his tracks. Panicking Grey quickly took cover behind the leg of the nightstand, peering carefully as he saw the giant return. In one hand she carried a tall bottle, and in the others the bite sized remains of what had once been a sandwich carried delicately between her thumb and forefinger. The giant quickly eyed the empty jar on the floor before rolling her eyes.  

“I thought I heard something up here.” she said out loud.

Discarding the remains of her meal into her mouth she took a moment to chew before swallowing it down with a swig from the open bottle. She stepped inside kicking the door shut behind her.  

“Alright, I’m tired and really not in the mood for games, so I’ll give you a chance to come out.”

Grey held his breath as the giant scanned the room. The hole in the floorboards wasn’t far but knowing how quick this giant was able to react he knew he had no chance of making it to the hole before she would inevitably catch him. Instead his stood still, watching as her feet drew closer and closer to the nightstand.

“I’ll give you till the count of three, after that I’ll make sure to spend the rest of tonight make your life a living hell.”

Grey was panicking, he knew if he didn’t do something he was as good as caught. If he could just find some way to distract her, then maybe...

“One...” the giant began.

Grey’s heart raced. Just a moment, all he needed was a moment to escape. But it’s not like a solution would appear out of thin air...

“Two...”

It hit him. That was it. If he could just create another illusion, one like before, then maybe… maybe that would work. But he still had no idea how he had done it the first time...

“Thr-”

Out of times and out of options Grey closed his eyes trying to recall the thoughts that ran through his head. The image he had imagined. Last time it had been him standing with a sword ready to confront the giant, but now it was him, walking out from under the bed and revealing himself. He picture the image vividly. Getting spotted, distracting the giant, all he had to do now was…

...will it...

Grey felt a slight chill wash over him as his eyes opened and was speechless as he saw the sight before him. The gian stopped abruptly as she peered down. An illusion of Grey himself stepped out from under the bed, it looked nearly identically except for… for… had his hair always been that light? Grey paused, hoping that minor inconsistency would go unnoticed but by the giant’s reaction, it appeared that it had.

“You sure like cutting it close don’t you.”

The giant knelt down to grab the illusion and Grey once again panicked. As far as he knew it was just an image, nothing real. If she touched it then the his lie would be discovered. Much to Grey’s surprise however the illusion moved almost instinctively as it jumped back just before the giant could grab it. She looked on in surprise before expressing her displeasure with an irritated scowl.

“Oh you want to play do you? We’ll see how playful you are once I’ve broken your legs.”

The giant reached for him again but the illusion retreated under the bed beyond her reach.

Realizing that he she wouldn’t be distracted for long Grey decided to leave the illusion to its own devices and make a break for the hole just as the giant dropped to her stomach. Grey ran as fast as his legs could carry him, quickly closing the distance between him and the hole. Without stopping Grey dived into a slide, dropping below the floorboards and landing in a crawl space.

Once inside Grey sighed in relief. He didn’t know how long his illusion would keep the giant occupied but he knew he shouldn’t count on it for long.

Grey looked around the small corridor he had landed in. It was dark and a little cramped, yet large enough for him to walk through if he kept his head low. The sound of music and laughter was much louder in here and Grey could spot a small stream of light filtering in from a small opening in the distance.

Making his way towards the light Grey found another hole, this one dropping into the main room. Peering over the edge Grey saw a sight much like the one he had imagined upon entering. A large room was filled with giants, male and female alike of different ages, eating, drinking, dancing, laughing, and a few playing cards on the side, a fat stack of coins being wagered on the table. It was almost uncanny on how familiar it was to many of the taverns he frequented, the size of the occupants being the only noticeable difference.

Grey tore himself away from the almost fantastical sight below. He couldn’t keep hauled up in here forever and needed to find a way out, not only did the drop into the main room look fatal, but with a room full of giants below Grey wasn’t certain that was a fall he’d want to survive. Though looking around the crawl space there weren’t many options. If perhaps he could just wait until the tavern closed then maybe...

“Lets see if I were a human I would’ve snuck into here.” Grey heard the voice of the scar faced giant say.

Grey froze, holding his breath as a shadow eclipsed the light from the room above.

“I know you’re down there human, it’s the only place you could’ve snuck into in such a short notice. You may think your cute pulling that little illusion trick on me, but your antics have officially crossed the line into annoying. Once i’ve gotten my hands on your again, I’ll make sure to take all night in showing you how badly you fucked up.”

Grey didn’t so much as breath as the giant spoke. All remained quiet for a moment, until a large blade stabbed into the floorboards, causing Grey to jump. Just as quickly as it had pierced through, it was pulled out before being stabbed through again, this time in a different location. Grey wasn’t sure it it was magic or just unnatural strength that allowed the giant to do this but either way he didn’t want to stay to find out. Taking a step back Grey stopped himself just in time as he narrowly stepped backwards into the hole behind him. Grey didn’t have long to collect himself as a large smashing sound was heard. Looking back to where the giant had been stabbing Grey was surprised to find that her hand had just broken through the floor, making a much larger opening into the crawl space. Maneuvering her arm past her elbow, the giant reached inside, grabbing at the air as she felt around for Grey. It was moving dangerously close as Grey found himself with nowhere to run. Looking between the drop below and the giantess’s hand Grey made his choice. Closing his eyes and stepping over the edge he allowed gravity to take over as he fell.

Grey gritted his teeth, anticipating everything to end as his body would soon collide with the hardwood floor. Instead Grey landed with a splash as he was suddenly submerged underwater. Opening his mouth in surprise, he inhaled some of the bitter liquid as he swam for the surface and coughing for air. His senses quickly returned overpowering him with the strong and pungent smell and taste of whatever he was swimming in. In fact the smell and taste were familiar, very familiar. It was beer. He was somehow swimming in beer. Opening his eyes Grey could see the cold amber liquid he treaded, trapped with the confinements of long smooth metallic walls that circles him on every side. Looking up he peered out of the opening of the mug to see the chin, neck, and partly eclipse face of a giant woman. She was young, with a rounded face and blue eyes with blonde hair. Putting the pieces together Grey understood what must have happened. He had landed in her mug. The waves swayed slightly as she held her drink in hand, talking to someone who remained out of view.

“I don’t know if I would, it sounds dangerous.” the blonde giantess said.

“Dangerous? How dangerous could a bunch of humans be?” the other voice responded another woman’s voice.

“That’s what my friend Diana said but she still hasn’t come back.”

“You're overthinking it, it’d be fun.”

“Well… maybe...“ the blonde pondered.  

“Hey I’m going up for another round, want one?”

“Sure, let me just down the rest of this real quick.”

“That's not good.”

Grey felt as the mug was lifted towards the woman’s face. Bringing the edge of the mug to her lips, she tossed her head back and opening her mouth wide as the beer began to flow in. Grey watching as wave after amber wave cascaded into the back of her throat and was soon sucked down into the giant woman’s gullet, threatening to carry him along for the ride. Acting quickly Grey reached his hands up and grabbed onto the flesh of the giant’s upper lip as the rest of his body was sucked into the mouth. He held on tightly, his legs and body pulled onto the giant’s tongue as he struggled to keep himself from being carried away with current.

Feeling his tiny hands suddenly grab on to her lip the giantess was startled nearly choking on her beer as she dropped her mug to the floor. The giantess bent forward letting out a fit of coughs that tossed Grey from her mouth and onto the open floor in a frothy puddle. The giant’s friend ran to her aid patting her back as a few onlooker turned to see what was wrong. She opened her mouth to speak but stood wordlessly as her eyes drifted downward spotting Grey on the floor.

“By the Wandering Woman… is that a human?”

Multiple giants stopped what they were doing and crowded around. Feeling the their eyes on him, Grey felt himself seized by a sudden feeling of primal fear.

Run.

Grey got to his feet and ran as he made a beeline for the door. Taking this moment of confusion to his advantage, he ducked under the crowding giants legs, maneuvering between rows of feet as he worked his way through the crowd.

“He’s quick!” he heard a startled woman say from above.

“Someone catch him!” he heard one of the men from the crowd call out.  

Feet began to shuffle as the patrons looked down trying to catch sight of him as he ran.

“There he is!” another voice called out.

Grey moved through the maze of giant feet. Putting his training to the test Grey leapt over the toes of leather boots, and ducked and slid as a pair of flat footed sandals passed him overhead. The giants clambered and shuffled together as the confused mob of tried to keep track of his movements. He stopped as another sandal came crashing down in front of him, quickly moving into action and climbing over the foot with ease. He had to be quick but he also needed to be careful. A moment's hesitation would lead to him being caught, but a wrong move could end with him being trampled under a foot. Grey spotted a clearing through the crowd of ankles as he spied the door on the other side. He began running until he felt two massive fingers pinch down around his leg, hosting him upside down and rising him high into the air.

Grey was lifted to the face of a giant man with dark moppy hair and shaggy beard. The giant eyed him for a moment before letting out a loud hearty laugh.

“Looks like I caught the little bugger!” the giant cheered as he hoisted Grey high for all to see.

Grey was met with a wave of boastful cheers and a few disappointed sighs as he was dangled from his ankles. The giant brought Grey to his face once more and took in a quick whiff, which elicited from him an involuntary shiver as he felt the breeze from the nostrils.

“A beer flavored human?” the giant proclaimed in excitement. “Can’t wait to try it!”

The giant opened his mouth dangling Grey overhead. His breath reeking of stale alcohol and rotting meat that was so bad Grey couldn’t help but gag. Between being held upside down and the the scent of this giant’s breath, Grey was sure he’d have puked if he there was anything in his stomach to throw up.

As the giant began to lower Grey a voice arose up from the crowd.

“Hold up!”

“What now?”

Grey turned to see the blonde haired giantess break through the crowd. The blood was rushing to his head at this point but Grey could still make out the giant’s curvaceous figure, which included a very ample bosom that even while upside down Grey could see was worn with a shirt that revealed more than its fair share of skin.

“That human was in my drink, so by all rights he should belong to me.” she declared to the room.

The giant brought Grey away from his mouth, holding him out in a quick swing, as if using him to gesture at her.

“You had your chance, now he’s mine. I caught him fair and square.” the giant responded using another expressive hand gestures that only helped to make Grey feel more nauseous.

The giant began to bring Grey back to his mouth, allowing his drunken breath to waft over him. The giantess not ready to give up her prey so easily shoved the giant causing him to lose hold on him. Grey was tossed into the air and began falling in what was starting to feel like a recurring nightmare as he landed head first into the woman’s open blouse. Landing directly in the center of her cleavage Grey found his torso stuck between two large soft mounds as he legs kicked aimlessly on the outside.

Caught now in between the giantess’s breasts Grey began to sweat as the heat of her body overwhelmed him. He attempted to reorient himself, pushing his hands against the firm flesh but found no traction, as he hands slipped across the sweating walls. Suddenly the flesh began closing in, squeezing him tightly as giant adjusted her bust playfully, nearly taking his breath away in the process.

“There.” he heard the giant’s voice boom from above. Her voice resonating in ripples across her massive tits. “He’s firmly mine now, good luck taking him from me.”

“Well if you insist.” the giant responded cockily.

“Oh please tell me he isn’t-”

Grey felt hot breath hit his legs followed by a loud muffled cheer from the rest of the inn. Grey felt what felt like two sharp rocks clamp around his leg-gently-as he was pulled out by the giants teeth, but not before taking a moment to really press his face against the woman’s bosom. Holding Grey by the teeth, he plunked him upside down between his fingers before holding Grey in the air in another show of victory. This got another round of cheers and applause from the inn’s occupants, all except the blonde giant who was left blushing in bewilderment.

“You’re a pervert!” she shouted.

The man shrugged. “Never claimed I wasn’t. But tell you what mega tits-”

“Well if he’s saying it...”

“If you really want him that badly how about we grab ourselves a room and discuss it in private, like adults.”

This got a few hoots and whistles from the men in the room. Grey could see the the giantess fold her arms under her bosom helping to push them up slightly; an action that from Grey’s upside down perspective was completely unnecessary. She exchanged a glance with her friend who seemed to be more than happy to encourage the drunken behavior.

“Fine.” the woman said. “But only if you pay for another beer on top of it.”

The crowd erupted into a roar of applause as Grey’s new captor threw up his arms triumphantly, still holding him along for the increasingly disorienting ride.

“You heard her boy’s, I’m going to need a room and another drink!” the giant swung Grey back in front of his face, dangling from his leg all the while. “What do you think pipsqueak? You ready to have a bit of fun?”

“Will you please stop holding me like this...” he answered nauseatingly.

“I’ll take that as a yes!” the giant yelled.

“Wait I didn’t-”

The room erupted into another round of applause.

“So this is what hell is like.”

The giant held Grey before the giantess before dropping him, causing him to fall again into her open cleavage. Grey landed, bouncing slightly off her right boob and rolling towards the center. As he began reorienting himself two massive fingers came down wedging him firmly between the giant’s breasts.

“You stay right there until the fun begins.” the giantess smiled.

“I’m going to hate this.” he responded to no one's acknowledgement.

Grey watched from his front row seat as another giantess-a server as she looked to be-walked over and handed the blonde woman a drink and a key to the man.

“Have a fun night.” she said playfully before looking at Grey and giving him a wink.

The giantess lifted the mug to her face as she began quickly chugging the free beer. Excess streams of the liquid spilling over of the corner of her mouth, creating a amber stream that traveled down her chin, neck and eventually pooled into her cleavage covering Grey in a fresh coating.

“I hate this. I really, really hate this.”

Finishing the beer and passing the empty mug to her friend the giant began escorting his new partner towards the steps, an arm draped around her shoulders. Each step the giantess took caused Grey’s prison jiggle around, making the experience all the more uncomfortable. Grey watched as the faces of different giants watched as the couple passed by, either giving them thumbs ups, wolfish whistles, or words of encouragement. More than once Grey looked to find one of the giant looking his way, usually with a wink, longing gaze, or the occasional lip licking. From his experience it seemed giants were rather fond of that last gesture.  

As the couple made their way up the steps they suddenly stopped. Looking up Grey turned to see why. Standing at the top of the steps was another giantess standing in their way, a giant Grey easily recognized by her crimson hair and scared face. By the look she had on her Grey could see she appeared none too pleased.

“Okay, I’m going to put an end this.” she said as she crossed her arms before her. As she spoke her eyes remained transfixed on him, ignoring both of the giants that stood before her.

“Excuse us miss, but the lass and I are in the middle of something.”

“I don’t care.” the scar faced giantess said. “That human belongs to me and I want him back.”

The giant man cracked a smile. “Well I’m sorry.” he said sarcastically. “Even if that were true i’m afraid he’s ours now. You lost him, we caught him, he’s ours fair and square.”

Her eyes narrowed as she stared daggers at the man. “You really don’t want to do this to me right now. Give me the human, this is your only warning.”

The giant laughed a low and bellyful laugh.

“Hey if you want him so badly maybe we can turn this into a threeway, I’m sure my cock is large enough for-”

The giant never finished his statement, instead Grey heard a low gurgling sound before turning to watch as the giant’s hulking body crumbled to the floor. The red haired giantess stood with her arm outstretched, a bloody dagger in her hand.

Grey heard a ear piercing scream as the blonde giantess looked on in horror. She turned to run but but the scar face giantess took a quick step forward plucking Grey by his hunter's cloak free from her cleavage.

“The amount of trouble you’ve caused me tonight-” she began to say as she held Grey before her.

A low roar was heard as another giant charged at her with a wooden cane in hand. He swung it at the giantess’s head only for her to swiftly duck before rising and sinking her blade into his jaw. The inn’s occupants began to panic as women and men fled into the street, the bravest of those grabbing nearby objects they could attack her with.

Sighing and raising her dagger up defensively, the giantess prepared herself for thier on coming assaults, all while still holding Grey by the cloak in her free hand. Seeing his captor distracted Grey unfastened his hunter’s cloak allowing him to drop to the floor and quickly maneuvering into a roll as he landed on one of the uppers steps. The giantess took noticed and bent down to grab him, only for a fist to connect to her face the second she looked away. Stepping back up the steps she returned her attention to her attackers in hopes of dispatching them quickly.

Seeing a new opportunity before him Grey fled down the staircase. There were only a few steps he needed to descend before he was on the ground floor, and luckily for him in middle of the chaos someone had left the front door wide open. Evading the approaching boots of oncoming giants, Grey kept to the wall and leapt from one step to the next, descending as fast as he could. Another victim collapsed on the stairway nearly crushing Grey under his body as it came to rest at the bottom of the stairs. Grey hurried, making it to the floor and kept running across the room until he was outside.

It was dark out, with a crowd of curious onlookers watching while the blonde giantess stood with her friend and cried. No one seemed to noticed as he slipped outside the door and no one stopped him as snuck out quietly into the country night.

 

“I can’t believe we’re going through with this.”

“It’s what we wanted for so long.”

Grey didn’t know where he was or how he ended up here, nor did he have the compulsion to find out. Hearing those voices speak, he felt drawn to them; like a moth to a flame.

“What we’re doing is wrong...”

He recognized the the voice that spoke. It was a woman’s voice, yet as it talked it sounded almost scattered, giving it an unnatural echo like cadence that made it difficult to place where he knew it from.

“It’s okay.”  the other voice assured her, this one a man speaking in the same distorted manner. “This concerns only us.”

“I trust you.” the woman said in return.  

He was able to place the voice now. It was Amelia, he was sure of it. Yet the other voice… while Grey didn’t recognize it as anyone he knew something about it felt familiar.

Images appeared reflecting the speakers, yet not fully, they were two silhouettes projected into an empty white void. One was the image of man, whose head was turned upward as he stared at the other, a woman of great stature matching the size of a giant, kneeling in front of the tiny man.

“I promise.”  the man began. “To love you wholly and truly in this world and the next.”

The giant woman leaned in closer.

“I promise, to love you wholly and truly in this world and next.” she repeated.

“With God as our witness,” the man continued

“and The Wandering Woman’s blessing,” Amelia’s voice followed.

“may our love be eternal.” they said together.

The silhouetted woman lowered her head as the two embraced in a kiss, sanctifying their romantic ritual. The world around Grey began to change, as their figures melted and the once white expanse faded into a dark red horizon.

“Please no...” a voice called from behind, a voice Grey knew immediately.

“Nia!?” Grey turned around. There was nothing.

“no… you can’t… not like...”

This time it wasn’t Nia’s voice her heard, but another woman’s voice. One Grey knew just as well.

“Jule?”

“this… this can’t be happening...” once more in Amelia’s voice.

In the horizon a dark shape began to gather. The silhouette of the woman could be seen again, holding and embracing a small object in her hand.

“I… I will always remember our vows…” the figure wept, this time in a combination of voices. “I’ll see you again in a different life...”

Grey was hit with an indescribable feeling upon hearing those words. He had heard them before… but from where he couldn’t recall. As he tried to remember where he might have heard them, the world around him shifted once more, dark clouds forming in the reddened sky as they stretched out in the distance like a coming storm. The storm took shape, filling the sky as violent winds picked up. The clouds formed into a shape that could only vaguely be made out, a shape that almost resembled a person, but whose all feature remained obscured by the darkness of the storm.

A voice rang out from the sky, the voice of a man as scattered and distorted as the rest, but boomed like thunder as if shaking the heavens. But this voice was not alone, speaking with it was a second voice, that of woman could be heard. It spoke softly, as if trying to hide itself yet even under the thunderous roars of the first, it’s presence remained all too clear. Unlike the voices from before these two did not speak in unison, instead the softer feminine voice would lead, speaking words that the male’s would echo as if being guided. Together they shared a message,

“To be cast into the void,

And exist with no end.

Until your final words,

are said to him again.”

The wind suddenly picked up, spreading the clouds into this world’s sky until that was all there was left. Everywhere he turned Grey could only see the darkness of this black sky, leaving him isolated and alone as the wind beat against him in the empty void. Just as Grey curled up, hoping to protect himself from the violent gales, they ceased. It was silent, eerily so and in this brief silence Grey once more heard a voice. It was the feminine voice from just moments before, the quiet one that lead the thunderous male as it spoke. It spoke again, this time to him, and unlike everything else he had heard before it did not speak in a distorted manner, instead it sounded crisp and close, almost as if it was speaking in his ear.

“...so you’ve come to make good on your promise... Prince...”

 

...

Grey’s eyes shot open as his nostrils were assaulted with the smell of manure. He sat up slowly, his body ached and clothes stuck to his skin, a residual effect of being submerged in beer the previous night. It was then that Grey remembered everything he had undergone at the inn, yet where he was  or how he had gotten here he couldn’t recall. Taking in his surroundings Grey noticed that everywhere he looked he was surrounded by these strange tall blade like plants that emerged directly from the ground.

Where was he?

Rising to his feet, Grey clutched his stomach as it let out a small groan. He was starving, having had very little to eat over the last few days. As Grey began pondering on his next action, a sudden gust of air was pulled up around him. Intensely he turned his head upward and widened his eyes as he saw what hung above. .

Grey‘s heart skipped a beat as he saw the wide open maw stretching over him in the sky, layered rows of flat teeth lining the sides as they drew ever closer. Quickly Grey dropped to his stomach just as the teeth clamped shut above him, uprooting the blade like plants from the ground. As the muzzle of the mouth pulled away, sucking the green plants inside, Grey was speechless at the beast that loomed overhead. It was a cow.

Grey had heard rumors of cows the size of buildings being found in the giant lands, but most hunters dismissed these as just stories that  veterans told to mess with recruits. Seeing the mountain like bovine before him though Grey was left unsure of what to think.

Watching the creature lazily chew away at the vegetation, Grey began to realize that the plants that grew around looked like grass. Very large, and very tall grass. As the cow chewed absentmindedly, Grey found he couldn’t do much else besides gaze up at the creature in awe. Suddenly it stopped chewing. Lowering its head again, Grey jumped back as he found himself standing before the beast’s large open pink nostrils.

“Easy there.” Grey said trying his best to not freak out.

The cow eyed him for a moment, sucking in a strong gust of air into its nose before breathing it back out over him. It’s mouth began to open and for a moment Grey was afraid that it was coming for him, but instead the creature let out a low moo, it’s breath nearly knocking him over as it rose it’s head back into the sky and began walking away.

Grey stood completely frozen, petrified from what he had just seen. That's when he heard what sounded like laughter.

Looking the way the laughter was coming from, Grey saw a large field of corn that stood even higher than any of the grass that surrounded him. In fact where he stood the corn stalks seemed to tower into the sky, much higher than even most giants stoods. Within the gargantuan cornfield-standing on the a leaf-Grey spied a man, hootin’ and hollering from his perch above.

“Looks like Ol’Betsy decided to pass you by today. Ya’ sure are lucky stranger.” the man called down in a thick countryside accent.

“Excuse me?”

“Oh yeah she's a beast alright!” he shouted back. “You know I had a cousin once who passed out in that there field after a hefty night of boozin’. I tell you he was so far gone that  when Betsy came a’grazin’ the next day he got caught up in the rest of her chewin’. Poor soul was probably so far gone he didn’t even wake up in time to notice. God rest his soul.”

Grey remained in shock.

“What's the matter, cow got your tongue?”

Okay...

“I’m sorry.” Grey began. “I think i’m a little lost.”

The man scratched his beard, all while giving Grey a good look over.

“Ooooohhhh.” he said. “Your not from round these parts are ya’?”

“No, I’m not.” Grey responded bluntly.

“Well you should have just said so, come on out of that grazin’ grass and let's talk.”

Grey took a moment to look at the tall grass that surrounded him before pushing his way towards the edge of the cornfield. Once through, Grey stepped onto a large patch of fertilized dirt and looking up found the man sitting in wait on a high up corn leaf. This was the first good look Grey got of him. The man was wearing green clothes, or maybe they were plants weaved together to resemble clothing. His hands, knees, feet and face were covered in dirt, and he had long messy brown hair and beard that had probably never been groomed. Something about the man seemed feral and crazy but Grey remained calm. He wasn’t sure how this man got out here, but he was a survivor by the looks of it. Being stuck in the middle of giant territory this fellow human might be his best chance at staying alive.

“I see you got yourself some fancy armor.” the man called down. “You one of them hunter folk?”

“Umm yeah... sorta. You know about The Hunters?”

“Oooh yeah, I meet your kind from time to time. You seem a little lost? They tell you nothin’ before sending ya’ out here?”

By the man’s tone it appeared he was a little skeptical of Grey’s ignorance.  

“Oh yeah, well you see I was captured.” Grey answered quickly. “Captured by a giant. They took me back here and I managed to get away so… here I am.”

“Hmm. Well sounds like you’ve had yourself a bit of a rough patch. Don’t worry thought, i’ll show you round these parts.”

“Wait before you do… who are you and… what are you doing out here?”

The man gave Grey a queer looked.

“Well i’m Jedediah, I don’t quite understand what you mean though by ‘doin’ out here’.”

“Well Jedediah, I’m just confused on why your so far out here in giant territory. I’m also a little put off by how big everything looks.”

“OH!” Jedediah exclaimed. “I forget you city folk ain’t too bright and don’t know nothin’ bout the country life. Well I live out here!”

“Live?”

“Yup. Born and raised. My family has lived out in these here fields for generations.”

“Really?” Grey said taken aback. ”Why?”

“Why not? We ain’t the only ones of course. Plenty people live here, plenty of food and stuff to drink. By the smell of ya’ I can tell you already found that detail out for yourself.”

Grey paused, lifting his arm to smell and quickly realizing how heavily he stunk of beer.

“As for why stuff is so big? That's cause of them giants. I mean think about it, the’re so big they need big cows and pigs and gardens in order to keep themselves fed. You didn’t think all they ate was humans didya?”

Grey was silent, partially because he secretly kinda did.

“Well how did all of this get so big?”

“It’s always been this big!” Jedediah said besides himself. “Boy you sure are dull aren’t ya’? My gran always told me that them giants planted a small little person sized cow into the ground until one day POP! Big ol’ cows sprouted from the ground, ready for milkin’ and butcherin’’”

“Excuse me?”

“Yup.” he boasted proudly. “Like magic.”

“I’m clearly dealing with an expert.”

“Listen, magic cow plants aside, I’m in need of a little help.”

“Now that’s sellin’ yourself short, you need lots of it.” he said.

Grey decided it was best to ignore that comment.

“Anyway.” he continued. “Can you help point me in the right direction?”

“Surin’ can.” he said. “Where ya’ goin’?”

“I…” Grey paused. “don’t know...” He was lost.

With Jule missing, no leads on Amelia, and having turned his back on The Hunters, Grey had no idea where to go. At the sametime staying around in the giant countryside wasn’t an appealing idea. Giants were everywhere and that made things dangerous, yet seeing how this man-as crazy and shaggy as he appeared-was able to survive then maybe he could learn a thing or two about surviving himself.

A sharp groan in his stomach reminded Grey that he had not eaten in quite some time. The first thing he needed to do if he was going to survive was learn where to find food.

“Hey, mind if I ask you something?” Grey asked.

The man looked at him oddly, tilting his head like a curious animal.

“I suppose you can try?” he answered coyly.

Again Grey decided it was best to ignore that.

“Where do you get food around here?”

“Are ya’ hungry?”

“A little bit...”

“We’ll if your looking for meat you’ll have to risk going to the city like all the other city snatchers, but out here we have a simpler approach. Come on i’ll show ya’!”

Crouching low on the top of the leaf, Jedidiah leapt off, landing firmly with his feet in the dirt almost directly in front of Grey. Caught off guard Grey took a couple staggered steps back, as Jedidiah stared him directly in the eyes.

“Follow me!” he said gleefully as he turned and began marching in the other direction.

I have a bad feeling about this Grey.

While still cautious of the man Grey knew his options were limited. As his hunger pained him, Grey decided that so long as Jedidiah could lead him to food, he would have to trust him. For better or for worse.

 

…

Grey followed the man through the field of grass nearly losing sight of him a few times as his green attire blended into the surrounding leaves. Having abandoned his hunter’s cloak in order to escape, Grey felt exposed as he stuck out in the foliage. The green mesh like patterns on the cloak would have been perfect for blending into terrain like this. Even still, without the cloak the grass was tall enough that if a giant were to show up all Grey would have to do was keep low to hopefully avoid detection.

Eventually the grass dispersed as Grey laid eyes on the largest garden he had ever seen. Vegetables the likes of tomatoes, cabbages, squash, and pumpkins grew on its surface, each bigger than he could have imagined. Wandering beneath the thick green canopy of rising tomato plants Grey marveled as just how much food must be growing here. In the distance Grey could see what looked to be the leaves of budding potato plants and carrots. With the amount of food this garden had available it could easily feed an entire village for months, let alone a single person.

Jedidah sprang forth in front of Grey, grabbing the stalk of a large tomato plant before climbing it with little effort as he stepped out onto a spiraling stem. He positioned himself right underneath a nice plump tomato before tearing his fingers into the fruit and letting the juice wash over his hand. Pulling out a chunk Jedidah bit into it as tomato juice ran down into his messy beard.

“Well what are ya’ waitin’ for?” he said as he eyed Grey from above. “Dig in!”

Grey looked around speechless at the array of vegetables before him.

“What… what's good to eat?”

“Anything you can get yer hands on. Boy you city folk are slow.” he said before taking another bite of ripe tomato.

Grey looked above at the canopy of tomatoes that surrounded Jedidah. He could try climbing the stem, mimicking Jedidiah’s actions but Grey doubted even he could match such a feat as easily, at least not without having the crazed man taunt him the entire time. While keeping the option open Grey looked to the rest of the garden. The large squash plants and pumpkins looked appealing but their skins appeared too thick, making it difficult to get through without a decent blade on hand.

Deciding to wander around the immediate area Grey searched for other options the garden presented. Grey found what he was looking for in a pile of large red berries that sat in the middle of a small dirt clearing. By the looks of these berries they appeared to be practically identical to raspberries, except much like everything else a lot large. Usually Grey would have been hesitant about eating berries off the ground, but with how big they were there remained entire sections of the fruit not touching by the dirt and looked suitable to eat.

Feeling his stomach guide him Grey approached the pile hoping to simply pull a pod out of one of the top berries, however his eagerness to eat he had acted too hastily as the one of the berries was tugged free from the top and avalanches down besides him.

“Well that was inconvenient, at least I wasn’t...”

Suddenly Grey heard a snapping sound.

“...and that's not good.”

Like jaws closing in around him, the dirt surrounding the berry pile collapses inward, revealing thin wooden posts resembling the bars of a cage. In fact a cage was exactly what it was. The wooden trap snapped shut, as the ground began to settle and Grey suddenly found himself trapped behind wood bars.

“Uhhh, Jedidiah!” Grey cried out. “This is bad!”

Jedidiah slid down from a tomato stem with one hand while still holding onto a piece of tomato in the other. He approached the trap cautiously before making his way to where Grey stood. He eyed him from the other side of the bars before taking another bite of tomato. He continued to stand silently, chewing wetly as he made eye contact with Grey who waited silently for him to say something. Jedidiah opened his mouth again as if to speak, only to take another bite, juice running down the side of his face.

“Well?!” Grey exclaimed as he gestured to the trap he was in.

“You’ve gone and got yourself in a real tight mess.” he finally responded.

“I can see that, the question is how do I get out?”

Jedidiah shrugged before taking another large bite of his tomato. Grey hit his head against the bars in frustration. Despite the man’s difficult nature Grey was sure there was a way to escape. The trap didn’t seem all that stable, he was certain that if they worked together they could be able to bend a bar just enough for him to slip through. He just had to get Jedidiah to go along with him and...

Suddenly Jedidiah stood alert as he tilted his head to the sky.

“Ya hear that?” he said quietly.

“No...” Grey answered in concern. “What do-”

“Okay ma’ I’ll go grab some from the garden.” Grey suddenly heard the voice of a young woman say.

Starting to panic now Grey pulled at the wooden bars hoping to get them to budge with no success.

“Well ain’t that just a shame.” Jedidiah said as he turned to flee.

“Hey wait!” Grey cried out. “If you just pull this bar here it should be enough to get through.”

The man stopped for a moment and looked back at him.

“Sorry fella but this is how life works out here. Eat or be eaten.” he turned again to run but hesitated, and for a moment Gray hoped that he had had a change of heart. Jedidiah looked at Grey before saying, “When you see my cousin in heaven, just let him know the family sends our love.” and like that he was gone.

Grey paced back and forth, taking a few deep breaths as the sound of soft footsteps drew closer. He was fine, he just had to stay calm. He was practically a pro of escaping situations like this. He just had keep calm and ride it out one wave at a time. In fact things were even better than normal, he could use magic. He still didn’t quite understand how it worked, or what he was capable of but he had actually managed to use it in his escape last night. He was certain that if it came down to it he could use it again.

As the footsteps became louder and a shadow was cast over the garden, Grey had managed to calm himself. It would be easy, just like every other giant he had dealt with up to this point, except now he had an ace up his sleeve if things got out of hands. He just needed to play it cool for now.

Grey watched as the shadow loomed over head, the sun obscured by the giant as it knelt before the garden. As the giant leaned in to harvest her vegetables Grey was able to catch a quick glimpses of her through the cage. As her voice indicated she was young, Grey placed her anywhere from seventeen to twenty by the looks of her. She wore simple clothes, one that Grey would expect of a farmer to wear and her hair appeared to be a dark sandy blonde color, much like his own hair… or rather how it used to be? He couldn’t be sure anymore.

The giant reached into the garden, pulling tomatoes from their stems as she turned them over to check before placing them in a large wicker basket she had placed to the side. Eventually she grabbed the tomato that Jedidiah had been eating from, turning it over before letting down a deep sigh.

“Blasted humans, gettin’ in our garden again.” the giant said before discarding the tomato. “One of these days I oughta...”

Suddenly she paused. Grey looked up to see she was eyeing the direction of his cage. At first she seemed confused before leaning in closer and looking directly at him in surprise.

“We’ll I’ll be, looks like it actually caught one.”

Taking a deep breath, Grey took a moment to collect himself.  

“Showtime.”

The giant woman reached down, lifting the wooden cage from the top as she brought it to her face. Putting on his best smile-all while trying to keep his balance-Grey greeted the giant.

“Hello, my name’s Grey and I can assure you that this is all one big misunderstanding.” he said trying to come across as polite.

The girl narrowed her eyes as she shook the cage, resulting Grey to falling backwards.

“Misunderstanding my backside, you got a lotta nerve stealin’ from us. With the difficult season we’ve been havin’ you’ve really been a thorn in my family's side lately.”

Getting back to his feet Grey forced another weak smile as he tried to respond.

“I’m sorry to hear that. You see i’m not actually from around these parts so-”

The cage shook again as Grey fell back once more, the giants positioning the cage under her arm and weighing it against her hip as she carried it.

“Ah well.” she said having obviously ignoring every he was trying to say. “I’m sure ma’ will appreciate a little surprise to go with supper tonight.”

Getting back to her feet, the giant rose giving Grey a fair view of the garden. Grey sat on the floor of the cage as the giant made her way back to a small cottage not but a few feet away. He took this time to grab a pod off one of the berries and eat it, hoping to at least quell his stomach if nothing else.

“Looks like this conversation will just have to wait till dinner.”

 

Laying against the floor, Grey watched out the window as the sun traveled across the sky. The farm girl-who he had since learned was named Sera-was hard at work cutting tomatoes and boiling water over a quaint fireplace in the kitchen. By the smell of it she was making some sort of tomato stew, mixed with onions, squash and other herbs she picked from the garden.

Occasionally Sera would take breaks from the cooking and walk into another room where Grey could make out the faint voice of an older woman whom Sera referred to as “Ma”. Grey would hear the giant’s mother cough on occasion as Sera fetched her water to help ease her ailing throat before leaving to continue with her chores. It was obvious that the mother wasn’t doing well, and by the sounds of it it seemed as if she hadn’t been for a while. Watching the giantess diligently work and tend to her sick mothers needs, Grey couldn’t help but both admire and pity the poor girl. That empathy however, was heavily damped by the fact that she intended to serve him with dinner.

Grey hadn’t said anything to her over the course of the day. After being caught, Sera carried him inside and set the cage on the kitchen counter next to a window.

“Now you sit tight and stay quiet.” she had told him. “I gotta’ lot of work to do and don’t need you botherin’ me none while i’m doing it.”

Grey responded with a brief smiles and thumbs up, which got him a curious look.

“Well aren’t you a spunky little fella’.” she said before going to do her chores.

If Grey hadn’t found her accent cute then he might have shot back with something snide but ultimately he decided it was best to try and stay on her good side. So instead he sat in his cage obediently, watching her go about her daily routine all the while silently biding his time. He would find his chance to escape, and if all else failed he could always resort to an illusion to make it happen.

Sera swept the floor, washed and setting out the clothing to dry, checking on her mother and prepared food for tonight's meal. Occasionally Grey would catch her glancing over at him as if unsure what to make of his unanticipated silence. Each time Grey would simply smile and wave only to make her more confused before she returned to working on the task at hand.  

Hours had passed, the two of them repeating these small exchanges until Sera made her way to the counter, wiping her hands off on a small white hand towel she had set aside.

“The stew smells great.” Grey said, determining that this was as good a time as any to try and strike up a conversation.

Sera jumped nearly dropping towel as she stepped backwards.

“Wandering Woman preserve me!” she exclaimed, putting a hand to her chest. “You nearly caused me to jump out of my skin, scaring me like that!”

“My apologies, I didn’t mean to.” Grey said trying to sound sincere.

Sera took a deep breath and collected herself.

“You know, you’ve really had me on the ropes all day, sittin there, quite like. Twiddling your thumbs like some sorta layabout.”

“Well you did want me to sit here and stay quiet. I mean I can see how busy you are, why would I want to bother you?”

Sera looked at him at him almost at a loss for words. She took a deep sigh as she ran her fingers through her hair exasperated.  

“You know with all the trouble you’ve been giving us, stealin’ from our garden and givin’ me a scare, I oughta cut you up now and add you to the stew. I’m sure it’d smell real appetizing then.”

Grey’s expression paled a little bit, only half of it acting.

“You… you wouldn’t… would you?”

Seeing the terrified look on his face, Sera appeared to grow a bit guilty.

“Naw… I wouldn’t. I apologize for scarin’ you like...“ Sera paused. “I apologize…? Apologize... to a human?”

Sera grunted, arching her back against the counter.

“You’ve been workin’ yourself too hard lately ‘Ser’.” she muttered to herself.

Grey sat down crossed legged on the floor.

“Been rough lately?”

“You bein’ serious right now?”

Grey played it off with a shrug, which Sera responded with another sigh. She starred across the room, almost at nothing as she reflected on her stresses.

“Yeah things have been hard lately.”

“How long has your mother been sick?”

“Little over a week now but I don’t think it’s anything serious. She ain’t as young as she used to be and doing all the extra work around here with my Pa’ gone has been rough for her. Not to mention the harvest isn’t going so well. No thanks to varmint like you always pickin’ at what we do get. Barely have enough to sell let alone keep for ourselves. But i’m here takin’ care of her cause that what kids do for their parents, ya’ know?”

“I don’t actually.”

“Oh right, I forgot your a human. You don’t know stuff like we giants do.”

“No I get the concept, it’s just... my parents died when I was still young so I never got the chance to understand.”

Sera fell quiet.

“Oh.” she said after a moment. “I’m sorry to hear that.” she paused again. “There I go again, apologizing to a human. Sounds silly.”

“I mean who's gonna know?” Grey said teasingly. “Me, the human? Yeah let me go tell all the other giants what you did, we’ll be gossiping about it for hours about it.”

He managed to get a laugh out of her with that, feeling a small bit of pride in doing so.

“Well aren’t you something. This whole time I thought you were one of them real quiet types but here you go shootin’ off at the mouth.”

“Like I said you were busy, I didn’t want to bother you.”

“Well… I appreciate that. That was really kind of you.”

She sounded somewhat sincere and didn’t even make an attempt to dismiss it. Grey took that as a sign that things were going well, but he needed to push a little further.

“So I know this isn’t my place to ask but, what happened to your dad?”

“To be honest I don’t know.” Sera answered. “He went off to your human lands nearly a month ago an’ he’s been gone ever since. He knew it looked to be a rough season so he thought maybe if he could catch a couple wild humans and sell them on the market we’d at least make enough to get by. Lots of people have been doin it lately so it was better to go now while he still could, but now there are stories popping up. Stories of people not coming back and humans that use magic to kill giants. It makes me concerned, ‘specially since he ain’t back yet. I just pray that wherever he is, the Wandering Woman will watch over him and guide him back to us.”

That was the second time Grey heard her use that term. Wandering Woman. Oddly it sounded familiar, like he had heard another giant say that name too, maybe at the inn? Nothing The Hunters taught him mentioned something like that but it sounded almost like a holy figure to them, yet if that was true this Wandering Woman was just as useless as God was for most things, because Grey had a strong suspicion he knew what happened to her father. He must have been one of the giants killed the day of his first mission, at least the timing worked out for that to be right. As far as he knew every giant that invaded that day was killed, meaning Sera’s father wouldn’t be coming back anytime soon. Grey wanted to sympathise with her loss, having lost his own parents he knew the pain she must be going through. Yet, he couldn’t find it within him as he recalled the chaos in the village his team had been sent to. Homes destroyed, families and lives left in ruin, watching as Kai was killed. How could he feel sorry for something that could do all of that?

“You seem offly quiet all of a sudden?” Sera noticed.

“I’m just… a little confused about something.”

“That so, what about? You know we giants are purty smart, I’m sure whatever you're confused about I can answer pretty easily.”

“I didn't it’s something that's been on my mind for a while.”

Sera seemed to look at him in a manner that implied he continued. While unsure if he should proceed, Grey sighed and decided to get it off his mind.

“It’s just… why are we so different? I’ve been watching you all day and all of your actions are things that mimic things that humans do yet…  you don’t see it that way do you? So i'm trying to figure out what is it that makes humans and giants so different from each other.”

“Well that’s a silly thing to ask. For starters it’s in the name; we’re much bigger than y’all.”

“And that’s it?” Grey continued.

“Well course not, we can use magic. Well some of us can, you need to go be educated on how first, but the point stands that we can. We’re smarter and stronger, we’ve got culture. I mean humans are simple creatures and just kinda crawls around and eat whatever you can get your hands on.”

“You know my kind also builds towns and cities right? We even farm and raise our own food, and have our own culture.”

“Well yeah but you started doin’ all that by watchin’ us.”

Grey was taken aback by her claim, never in his life had he heard anything so absurd.

“Well what about our families?”

“Pardon?”

“My parents were taken from me when I was just a child, taken by a giant. From one person to another how can you say that's okay? What if you were in my shoes, how would you be able to justify something like that?”

Sera appeared deeply disturbed by the question.

“Well i’m awful sorry that happened and all but... i’m sure your parents probably went towards feeding someone's family so... that’s something. It’s kinda like how you’re gonna help feed mine.”

Grey went silent. Did… did giants really feel nothing? Was it really that difficult to see humans as people? Since the first step Grey took into giant territory he couldn’t help but be amazed by all the similarities they had, yet no one seemed to acknowledge this, if anything they fought against it. It was like they were hardwired to only see humans as food and nothing else.

“Listen,” Sera began. “It’s been real nice talkin’ with ya’ and all, I’ve been really stressed out these past few days and it was just good to get some of it off my chest but I think we should stop now. Your startin’ to get these strange thoughts in your head and I don’t think it's healthy for either of us. But if it makes you feel better just know that what your doing is a big help.”

“It doesn’t make me feel better, but I guess I appreciate the effort.” Grey answered sarcastically.

“Oh don’t be like that… and if you can do me one more little favor, my Ma’ doesn’t know I found you so I want to make this a surprise.”

Grey sat silently before slowly giving her a thumbs up to which Sera smiled.

“Your the best little man.” she said as she went back to preparing the stew.

As Sera left Grey sat alone taking a moment to wonder aloud to himself. “Looks like I’ll need to make this a dinner to remember, I wonder what kind of illusions I can create...”

 

…

 

The sun casted a warm yellow and orange glow into the room as it began to set. Sera lit a few candles to help keep the creeping night at bay and by the savory aroma that hung in the air, Grey guessed that dinner was just about done.

The smell alone was enough to entice Grey to want just a sip. With all the days he spent out on the road a nice warm home cooked meal was just what he longed for. Setting aside his hungry desire for now, Grey instead kept his mind on the events to come. He wasn’t gonna let his hunger get him in trouble a second time.

Third if you count that business with the honeypot.

Having finished setting the table Sera approached the cage.

“I’m gonna go fetch Ma’, if you could do me another big favor and just act all polite like, like you were doin’ earlier that would be a big help.”

“I suppose I can do that.“ Grey stated. ”M name is Grey by the way, in case you were curious.”

“Gray? Like the color?” Sera asked unsure.

“Yeah except it’s spelled differently, not that it matters.”

“Well alright Mr. Grey, just act all kindly for us and you’ll have really done me a great service.”

Sera turned and walked away, disappearing behind the door to her mothers room. Grey waited quietly; a little annoyed by her request. Sure just put on a smile and act cheery as he was eaten alive. Where these giants serious? Still Grey couldn’t find it in him to be mad, Sera seemed like a nice girl, it almost upset him that he would have to ruin her night a little too escape.

The door opened and Sera stepped out, helping her mother to the table. Despite the difference in age Grey could clearly see the resemblance as the two women walked side by side. Though her mother's hair was much darker with the exceptions of a few Grey strands, their faces were similar, and Grey could imagine that in her youth the older giant was probably just as beautiful.

“Smells lovely dear...” Sera’s mother said through a strained voice.

“Thank you Ma’, but there's a little surprise to go along with dinner tonight.”

Sera’s mother looked confused Sera’s excitedly made her way to the counter and quickly grabbed the cage. The swiftness of which startled Grey as he balanced to keep himself from falling.

Sera made her way back to the table, holding the cage out for her mother to see. Grey couldn’t help but topple forward this time as the quick motion and sudden stop had him land face forward. As he reorganized himself Grey looked to see the giant woman’s blue muted eyes peering through the cage at him.

“Our trap finally worked!”Sera exclaimed ”I’ve just been itchin’ to show you all day.”

Her mother smiled weakly. “That’s great hun’, we’ve been needing a turn around like this.”

With both hands Sera pulled the top of the cage open, tilting it around and dumping Grey onto the table. Expecting this Grey maneuvered as the cage shifted, carefullying footing himself across the wooden bars and even managing to land on his feet as he dropped onto the table. He threw up his arms in presentation expecting to see impressed looks from the giants above only to be disappointed as it was clear neither of them took notice.

“He calls himself Grey, he’s a bit of a odd human; super chatty and not afraid of nothin’.”

“Sounds like he may have been bred well.” the mother stated.

“Wait, what does that mean?” Grey said out loud.

“You think so? Well he did say he wasn’t from around these parts.”

“You were talking to him?”

“No hold.” Grey began. “What did you mean by ‘bred well’?”

“Yeah, I mean, just a little. Like I said he’s very talkative and very calm all things considered.”

“He must have been bred then, humans who were raised tend to act more calm like.”

“-you see you said it again and the word ‘bred’ implies so many things-” Grey continued in vain.

“I guess that would make sense.” Sera said. “No wonder the little fella’ fell for the trap.”

“His previous owner must have lost him, though I’m sure he’ll taste just as good though.”

“-for just a second can I-”

“Oh!” Sera exclaimed. “Ma’ I forgot to mention this but Grey here is just for you. Hopefully a little protein is just what you need to make you feel right as rain again.”

“I guess not...” Grey surrendered.

“Oh no dear I couldn’t.” her mother insisted. “You work so hard making dinner and picking up around the house, it’s only right he should go to you.”

“But Ma’ you're the one not feeling well, I’m sure he’ll give you back some energy.”

“Well this is a very morbid conversation to be present for.”

Sera’s mother smiled. “Even if I wanted to I don’t think I could sweetheart. My throat has been awfully sore lately and I don’t think I could manage eating something like him at the moment.”

“I could always cut him up and make him easier to swallow?”

“NO!” Grey shouted out of instinct.

Surprisingly he managed to get the attention the both giants with that. Suddenly feeling their eyes on him Grey straightened himself before clearing his throat with a slight cough.

“Personally I would like to avoid that option if possible.” he stated somewhat sheepishly.

“Sera.” her mother said softly, cusping her hands in her own. “You work so hard for me and the farm, you need the energy more than I do. The stew will warm my belly and is much easier to swallow. I’ll be fine, I promise.”

“Are you sure Ma’?”

Her mother nodded before Sera embraced her in a hug.

“Oh thank you mama, I love you.”

“I love you too sweetie.”

“What a touching family moment.”

Really tugs at the heartstrings, doesn’t it?

After their long mother daughter embrace Sera looked at Grey who was doing his best to remain patient with everything going on around him. He could have easily attempted to run at anytime during that exchange, but instead he decided to stand back and watch it play out. Besides he found himself in a very similar predicament to the one he was in with Jule and her friends. Sure he could make a dash off the table, but reaching the door without being caught would be difficult. That coupled with the fact that he had a trick up his sleeve kept him from making any escape attempts just yet. It wouldn’t be long now until he set things in motion.

“Well Mr. Grey I have to say it’s been a pleasure.” Sera said with a smile.

“Are you talkin’ to the human?” her mother said concencered, but was surprised as Grey responded.

“The pleasure was all mine.” Grey smiled back. “But you know you don’t have to do this anymore, after all you were saving me all for your mom. So since she’s not interested would it be too hard to ask that you just let me walk out?”

“Don’t go gettin’ cold feet on me now.” Sera said playfully. “Tell you what if being eaten scares you, I promise i’ll be gentle. I’ll even send you off with a kiss for how sweet you’ve been to me.”

“I appreciate that, but really I’d prefer living.”

“Oh hush now.” Sera said as she began reaching for him.

Grey sighed, he didn’t actually think talking would save him but it was worth a shot. As her fingers drew near Grey knew it was time to put his plan into action. From what he understood about his powers they were illusionary, meaning while he couldn’t create a physical image he could create images people perceived as real.

Closing his eyes Grey began to focus. He started by imaging a knock at the door. The image was a simple one, as one of the giants went to answer the door they would be met with another giant who would distract them as he made his escape. Grey needed a vivid image to draw inspiration from so he imagined the blonde giantess from the night before standing at the doorway. She would distract them with some story or another, all while Grey would sneak off and hopefully out the still open door before they were any the wiser.

Taking in a deep breath Grey breathed out slowly, trying to force his will onto this illusionary scene he concocted. He expected his plan to be set in immediate motion, but as stood waiting for the knock he heard nothing as Sera’s fingers wrapped around his torso.

As Grey was lifted from the table he kept himself from panicking. Maybe it was a bit too dramatic starting off with a knock. After all he had never heard his illusions speak or make noise before so maybe he was hoping too much with an auditory effect. If that was the case Grey would just have tweak the scene a little. Again Grey closed his eyes, focusing on a new image. This time he envisioned the giant from last night, the same gruff faced bearded man whose breath stunk of beer. This time Grey would drop the theatrics and just focus on making the giant show up. The sudden appearance of a stranger in their house would be more than enough to startle the two women. Sera would most likely drop him and while they dealt with the perceived threat he’d sneak away. Granted this scenario didn’t leave the door open for him but at least he’d be able to hide, and maybe one of them would flee the house in a panic, allowing him to still slip outside.

Recalling the same process as before Grey opened his eyes, expecting to see the giant man standing in the kitchen, but was instead met with the view of Sera’s tremendous face as she smiled softly.

“Awww,” she began. “I can tell your nervous, since you keep closing your eyes and breathin’ all heavy. I promise it won’t be so bad. Now here let me give you that kiss I promised.”

Looking around frantically for the giant illusion started to feel panic set in as Sera’s lips puckered and he was moved towards them. Grey realized that perhaps he was too assured of himself, thinking he could create an illusion that big right off the bat. As the adrenaline kicked in Grey began rethinking his approach. If a giant was too big then he needed to make something smaller, smaller but just as intimidating. Something or someone who could scare the giants enough to release him but still be easy to imagine someone… someone like Zeke! Zeke was perfect! If he could imagine Zeke with his green aura that would be more than enough to frightened the two giants.

Shutting his eyes tightly Grey struggled to put himself in the same mindset during his last successful conjurations. The adrenaline helped as he recalled how desperate he was, and using that as a source of motivation he tried creating the same kind of illusions, this time mirroring Zeke in appearance. Zeke would appear standing on the table donned in his signature green hunter’s cloak that Grey knew him to wear often. He held his bow out high and charged the green aura around the arrow as strong powerful gusts of wind kicked up around him.The image was more vivid than anything else he had imagined so far, having seen Zeke demonstrate the ability than once over the course of his training. He knew it would work this time, practically feel it even. Breathing out and anticipating that seem cool release of energy, Grey felt nothing as he opened his eyes and was pressed into Sera’s lips.

Grey’s head was pressed in between the massive lips as Sera-after what felt like a very long and “generous” moment-pulled him away with a wet and audible smooch. It was certainly a first for Grey, one that left him dazed as he wiped some of the wetness from his face.

Before he had a chance to reorient himself, a slight smile appeared on Sera’s face, and Grey found himself being brought towards them again as she readied her lips. Not in the mood for a second round Grey brought one of his hands up defensively, pushing against the plush skin as he was pushed forward. Sera parted them just slightly allowing Grey hand to slip inside her mouth. He could practically feel the humidity between his fingers as Sera’s tongue rose unexpectedly and lapped across his hand.

Reflexively Grey tried to pull his hand free but a powerful sucting force from the giant’s mouth pulled it back, this time pulling it in past his elbow. Sera didn’t stop there however, before he could attempt to pull away he found himself suddenly sucked in up to his shoulder. Realizing what was happening, Grey started panicking as he was being slurped into the giant's mouth.

Placing his free hand on the giant’s upper lip Grey fought to keep himself from being pulled past them. Without warning, Sera’s mouth suddenly opened, her tongue worming its way out and catching him as he fell forward. Once Grey was secured on top of the writhing appendage, it receded back into her maw, carrying him along with it as Sera closed her mouth behind him.

Inside the dark and salivating cavern, Grey was welcomed by the strong smell of tomato and garlic on her breath, a obvious side effect of having been testing the stew all morning. Her mouth began to water, as Grey sat atop her tongue, saliva starting to drench into his clothing. Slowly her tongue began to shift, tilting back as Sera readied herself to swallow him.

With little times and options left Grey knew he needed to act fast. Closing his eyes he struggled to focus. Everything he had tried up until this point had failed, so he needed to so something he knew that worked. He needed to imagine himself. Nothing special, nothing flashy just him. Suddenly appearing in front of the giants face, ready to attack her with a sword or weapon of sometype. If he could just startle her then maybe she would cough him out. As Sera’s head began to tilt as well, the pooling saliva in her mouth went with it, creating a watery slope that lead towards her throat. Grey couldn’t hope to resist as he started slipping back. Ignoring the impending fate that awaited him Grey struggled to focus. Focus on himself, of him appearing suddenly, an image that would startle the giant and get him out of this hell… just focus on himself then maybe...

Finally catching on.

Grey opened his eyes. Despite being surrounded in darkness, he felt a sudden chill wash over him. It had worked, despite being unable to see he could feel it, but as her head continued to tilt back Grey still found himself slipping as the back of Sera’s throat opened to receive him.

 

…

 

Sera didn’t waste time in savoring her meal as she prepared to swallow Grey. She wanted to put the human through as little torment as she could before the end, though she couldn’t help but close her eyes as she appreciated the taste. Opening her eyes however Sera was met with a frightening sight. It was Grey, he was somehow free and flying right towards her carrying a sword. Not knowing how to respond Sera did the only thing she could do as she opened her mouth to scream.

 

…

 

On the inside just as Grey could feel the throat muscle clutch around his legs, the lips parted, letting streams of light into the damp pink mouth as just for a moment Grey caught a glimpse of the illusion he had managed to create. Working just as well as he had hoped, Grey quickly learned there was an unforeseen side effect to his actions. As Sera opened her mouth she breathed in heavily, her throat suckeing in a large blast of air. Her throat widened even more as Grey was sucked downward, losing his final glimpse of the outside world as he was pulled down the giant's throat.

Anticipating this to be the end Grey was surprised as he found his decent suddenly halted as he came to to a stop in a tight fleshy tunnel. Feeling small trickles of air flow past him, Grey came to realize where he had ended up. During Sera’s sudden moment of breathing in he had been sent down the wrong tube, meaning he was currently lodged within her windpipe.

Unsure whether or not to call his new predicament a blessing or not, Grey felt as a sudden rush of air flew up from underneath, but little of it passed by him as his body took up much of the space in the tube. Suddenly the area around him jolted, pressure started building as he could feel the walls desperately trying to keep the airflow going in vain. Suddenly a new pressure was formed as Grey could feel something from the outside press into him. Grey knew what must be happening on the outside, as he continued to feel Sera grab at her throat. She was choking, choking on him.

“Sera!” Grey heard a muted cry through fleshy wet walls

Sera’s whole body lurched as Grey suddenly felt himself pushed upward, not enough to set him free but enough to help. Again her lurched this time freeing Grey from her trachea as he was thrown from Sera’s mouth and set tumbling across the wooden dining room table.

If there were a record for amount of times some had almost been eaten, you’d hold it by now.

His legs shaking, Grey reluctantly got to his feet, brushing off layers of saliva and… god knows what else as he turned around to see Sera’s mother standing behind her, patting her daughters on the back as Sera rubbed her throat.

“Honey you must be more careful, you can’t go scaring me half to death like that.”

“I… I thought I saw somethin’...” Sera answered hoarsely.

“Shh. It’s alright. Here let me handle this.”

Grey didn’t get so much as a second to catch his breath as he saw the mother come to grab him. He didn’t have the time or strength to start running, so he closed his eyes and focused on another illusion. So far he had only been successful in making illusions of himself, yet they didn’t necessarily need to act like him. If that were the case then maybe... Grey paused as an idea sprung to mind. It was worth a shot.

Focusing on the image he wanted to create Grey felt a sudden surge of warmth leave his body. Opening his eyes Grey saw a blinding violet light directly next to him. Standing at his side was the image of a hunter, garbed in a green hunters cloak and carrying a longbow that glowed with a purple aura; which was odd as Grey had originally pictured it as being green. While the illusion mimicked Zeke in almost every aspect, it’s face instead appeared identical to Grey.

“It’s me… the illusions need to be me...” Grey mumbled.

The mother froze as the green clad hunter aimed at her. Her eyes widened in fear as she stared down into the blinding purple glow of the hunters bow.

“Run!” she turned back to Sera.

Listening to her mother, Sera quickly made her way towards the door.

“Stop!” Grey shouted in an attempt to stop her. Needless to say it didn’t work.

If word got out about what happened, things would only become more difficult. He needed a way to stop her, and while an idea did spring to mind, he wasn’t sure if he could pull it off.

“God I hope I can make two of these things.”

Focusing on conjuring a second illusion, Grey was hit was a powerful chill that nearly took his breath away. Opening his eyes suddenly in surprise, Grey fought to catch his breath as the sensation slowly dispersed.

“What the hell was that!?”

Looking up a new illusion similar to the first stood on the counter closest to the door and in his hand he held a bow that was glowing with the same violet aura as the first. The illusion caught Sera’s attention almost immediately as she halted to a stop. Looking back to her mother Grey was pleased to find that his first illusion was present, both copies standing stoically as they aimed at their intended targets. This feat did not come easily, as even now Grey could feel himself growing tired just by maintain their presence. He would have to deal with this quickly.

“If you don’t want to die, I’d walk back to your mother right now.” Grey said as he steadied himself, trying to hide the fatigue in his voice.

Slowly and cautiously, Sera walked back to her mother’s side. The illusion on the counter continued to follow her with his arrow, almost with a mind of its own. Now that Grey had the giants under his control, he was unsure how to proceed. It was as if they were at a stalemate as the two women looked between him and his illusions.

“I know who you are.” the mother finally said, catching Grey off guard.

“Do you now?” Grey responded quickly.

“You’re The Trinity. The group of magical giant killers we’ve heard rumors about.”

Seeing this perfectly wrapped opportunity presented to him, Grey didn’t waste time in taking it.

“I see our reputation precedes us.” he answered confidently, hoping that this time with magic at his disposal things would run much more smoothly than the last time he pulled this charade.

Sera’s mother appeared tense as he “confirmed: her fears. Looking at Sera she smiled weakly before turning back to Grey.

“I know what you’re here to do an’… an’ do whatever you like with me, just let my daughter go. She’s a good girl, young and a full life to looked forward to. I’ve lived my time and am ready to go if that means she gets to live.”

Sera looked to her mother as tears formed in her eyes. Grey couldn’t help admire the woman for her willingness to sacrifice herself but his magic couldn’t hurt them. It was all just a show. Even if it could Grey didn’t have any intention of harming them; even though they had almost made him their dinner. Either Way Grey didn’t want to torment the family, and thought up a quick way to end things.

“You should count your blessings this day, giants.” Grey announced loudly. “I’ve been held here long enough, killing you two would simply waste more of my time, but I leave you with a warning. If our paths ever cross again I will not be as merciful a second time.”

Feeling satisfied with his display Grey readied to depart.

”You killed him, didn’t you.”

Grey stopped, pausing to look back as Sera spoke up.

“I don’t know what your talking about, but it would be wise too-”

“Don’t play dumb with me!” she yelled. “My father, you killed him!”

“Sera please.” her mother inisited. “Forgive her sir, she's gotten a bit carried away...”

“We heard stories of your kind, going around and killing people. When my Pa’ didn’t come back I knew something what must have happened.”

“If your father went to our kingdom he assumed his own risks.” Grey answered in return, but it did little to stop her as she fired back.  

“Do you know how hard it’s been for us since he left? Did you ever stop to think that maybe he had a family?” tears began streaking down the sides of her cheeks as she became more hysterical. “You’re a monster! An unfeeling, ruthless, monster!”

Grey knew the best thing to do was leave. Engaging in this conversation would only provoke her, but hearing those words, being called a monster by a giant got to him. It was as if something had awoken inside him, as he threw all sense of precaution to the side and shot back.

“And what of the families killed by giants years? What about the thousands of lives ruined because giants come to our homes and destroy them! You call me a monster, when you’re the ones that kill and eat us without the slightest bit of regret? Do you expect me to pity you? Do you expect me to feel sorry because your dad came to our land to ruin more families? Giants are the reason I lost everything! My parents, my childhood, even the woman I...”

Grey hesitated, trying to take a moment to reel himself in.  

“How come its the same everywhere?” he continued. “Giants intentionally doing everything they can to make our lives a living hell. You turn a blind eye to us, ignore the fact that we feel just as you do and suffer even worse because of you. Is it because you’re bigger than us? Does that give you the right to make us suffer?  Well? Can you look me dead in the eyes and tell me that I don’t feel the same pain you do? Can you?”

“I… I...” Sera uttered before breaking down into heavy sobs.

Congratulations Grey, you got her to cry.

Despite the relief of releasing his anger, Grey couldn’t say he was proud about what he accomplished.

Sera’s mother held her daughter in a reassuring embrace, trying her best to soothe her. Grey knew he had overstayed his welcome. Yet he couldn’t find it within him to leave it like this. Something about it didn’t feel right, after all he always had difficulty making smart decisions when a crying woman was involved.

Grey looked to his two illusions, still both standing intently as they aimed their glowing arrows at the giants. He couldn’t address the situation with them around, so while it could be dangerous he needed to get rid of them.

“You two umm… leave me for a moment. I can handle this from here.” Grey announced more for show than anything else.

As Grey said this the two illusions vanished from sight, and Grey felt a sudden surge of tension released, almost as if he had been holding his breath this whole time.

Grey walked across the table towards Sera and her mother trying to think about something to say.

“Sera… I... I know it’s not much at this point but I was telling the truth when I said I didn’t kill your father.”

Sera managed to stifle a sob as looked up in his direction.

“Then why hasn’t he come home yet?”

“I don’t know.”

“Then… is there a chance he’s still out there?”

No.

“Maybe.”

Grey managed to get her to stop crying, looking as if he had ignited some hope in her, even if it was a false one.

“Listen, I should really be on my way now and-”

“I want you to take me to the human lands.” she said suddenly.

“‘Scuse me!?” her mother exclaimed.

“Yeah, I’m going to agree with her. What!?” Grey followed up in similar confusion.

“If my Pa’ is out there I need to find him.”

“Sera, I don’t mean to lead you on or anything but even if I don’t know what happened, that doesn’t necessarily mean he will be… you know. Going out to look for him will only put yourself in danger, not to mention the trouble it would cause...”

“That's why I want you to take me there. You know the way and with you by my side I shouldn’t run into any trouble.”

Grey was dumbfounded. “Leading a giant back to my kingdom is about the most asinine thing i’ve ever heard.”

“I swear I won’t hurt no one, and if you think I might you got your giant killing magic to stop me.”

“Sera stop and think about what your asking here.” her mother said.

“I am Ma’. If Pa’ is still out there then we need to find him, we can’t go on like this without knowing.” she turned to Grey. “I know that after all i’ve done to you I have no right to ask, but I’ll do anything. I promise so long as I live I will never eat another human, in fact I promise I will do what I can to help ‘em even, but please I can’t do this without your help.”

Grey opened his mouth to say no, but hesisted. Honestly her proposal wasn’t a bad one. After his escape from the scar faced giant Grey didn’t have any plan to fall back on. He had intended to just focusing on surviving but so far that in itself was proving to be difficult. With Sera willing to help him he could at least not worry about surviving, and maybe he could even enlist her help in trying to find Jule and Amelia. That being said returning to human territory with a giant would be more dangerous for the both of them, than she realized. Especially with the terms he left the Order on. If a scout were to spot him and he were captured well... being charged with treason would be generous at that point. It was dangerous but would it be worth the risk?

Debating over the choice presented to him Grey looked up and noticed Sera staring down, practically beginning with her eyes.

Now how can you say no to  a face like that?

“Fine.” Grey said defeated. “I’ll help but you need to do exactly what I say. If we are seen together by anyone it will be very bad for the both of us. Understood?”

“Thank you...” Sera said softly. “Thank you so much, I can’t even begin to imagine how I can repay your kindness.”

“Oh I have a couple ideas.” Grey answered sternly. “But we can discuss those once we’ve come back alive.”

“Hunter.” Sera’s mother said. “If you are going to do this I need you to make me a promise. Promise that you’ll keep Sera safe. Promise that not matter what happened to my husband that she will come home safe and sound.”

“That's a lot of responsibility to take on.”

Taking a deep sigh Grey responded.

“I promise.”

Sera’s mother gave him a hesitant yet stern nod before quietly turning to her daughter and embracing her one more time.

“Please be safe.” she whispered to her.

“Shucks Ma’, I’ll be fine.” Sera said reassuringly.

Grey watched as they had their moment, waiting patiently for them to finish before speaking up again.

“Alright so if we are actuallying doing this you should start packing now. If we leave first thing in the morning  we should get there by-”

A knock on the door interrupted Grey mid-sentence as everyone froze and turned to the door.

“Strange, we normally don’t get people knockin’ at this time of day.” Sera stated. “Don’t worry, I’ll answer it.”

Grey tensed a little bit as Sera moved, insiticinvely wanting to stop her with another illusion. Sera seemed to notice his hesitation and stopped before flashing him a smile.

“Don’t worry little fella, I’m not gonna do anything. Besides, were basically friends now, and friends look out for each other. Right?”

Grey remained dubious of that claim but relaxed a little as he let her continue. If he was really going to travel back to the human kingdom with her he needed to learn she could be trusted. Besides, now that he had agreed to help she had no reason to betray him, it was in her best interest to keep him around. Yet as he let her go, Grey couldn’t help shake the feeling that he had made a mistake.  

Sera opened the door just a crack as she peeked outside.

“Good evening ma’am, can I help you with somethin’?”

There was no response for a moment as Sera stood waiting. Slowly the door creaked open slightly more, as she collapsed to the floor. Sera’s mother and Grey watched on in horror as a pool of blood began to form under her head. Stepping over the body, Grey recognized the scared face of the giant that entered, a dagger stained in crimson with Sera’s blood in her hand.

As the giant entered she scanned the room before locking her eyes on the table, as she starred in Grey’s direction

“It really pains me to intrude on such a heartfelt family moment like this, but I have business to attend to.”

Sera’s mother screamed, but was quickly silenced as the dagger flew through the air, embedding itself in the woman's skull. She went quiet, as a horrified expression clung to her face, eventually collapsing to the floor, all the while the scar faced giant kept her eyes fixed on Grey, not slowing for even an instant as she made her way across the room.

“You… you killed them?” Grey stuttered in disbelief.

“Oh don’t go blaming this on me, this is your fault. You know I’ve had one hell of a day because of you.” the giantess began. “First I had to deal with the debacle at the inn, silence witnesses, cover my tracks. It’s a miracle I didn’t burn down this whole town down trying clean up the mess you left me.”

Seeing the giant nearly upon him Grey quickly focused and summoned an illusion. It was identical to the ones he called before, standing in an attire matching Zeke’s and aiming a glow violet arrow toward his pursuer. He had it fire immediately, hoping to catch the giant off guard as he turning the other way and ran. The giant didn’t so much as flinch as the illusionary spell phased straight through her.

Quickening her pace in a step of two, she swooped her hand in, catching Grey off the table effortlessly as she held him in front of her face. Grey struggled, clawing to break free before stopping and picturing another illusion jumping at her face with a sword. Again he had succeed in summoning it but as the illusion leapt, arching back it’s sword, the giantess didn’t so much as blink as it flew into her face, disappearing from view.

“Then I had to set up a magic detection field around this whole town. Do you know how long something like that takes to prepare over an area this large? I knew it would be worth it though. It was only be a matter of time before you tried casting one of your little tricks on someone else, and then I would find you. The waiting though was agony. So many little snot nosed brats learning cast their first sparks, or some jackass trying to impress a girl with a little magic show? With all the false leads I chased, I was beginning to think you wouldn’t do it.”

Grey said nothing, instead responding by pushing against the giant’s fingers in a desperate attempt to free himself.

“You know the worse part of all of this, I can’t even make you suffer for putting me through all that. For you to be useful to me I need to bring you back whole and alive… now that being said...”

The giant opened her hand slight, maneuvering Grey until she held his chest between her thumb and forefinger. Grey looked at her confused until the fingers of her other hand clamped down on his leg.

Grey’s began to worry as he looked at her confused.

“Wha… what are you doing?”

“Do you remember what I said back at the inn? Something about breaking your legs once I caught you?”

Grey’s face paled as she began applying pressure on his leg.

She smiled. “You humans are such delicate creatures, it really doesn’t take much. Just a little squeeze and… ”

The pressure she exerted on his leg was beginning to become unbearable as Grey winced through it.

“Wait! Don’t do thi-aghhhh!”

He heard a crack before letting out a scream, his leg having just been crushed between the giant’s finger tips. Grey breathed heavily through the pain, gasping for air until he suddenly felt the giant’s fingers on his other leg.

“Wait!” Grey called out. “You can’t!”

Grey screamed again as she began to applying more pressure.

“Oh don’t worry, I intend to have you in perfect condition when I present you to my boss. I know the perfect mending spell that will fix all of this right up, not without its own fair share of pain and agony mind you, but you’ll cross that road when we get there. You see, this? What you’re experiencing right now, this is for me. For all the stress I had to endure over the last twenty or so hours.”

Grey opened his mouth to speak, but found he couldn’t breath as the pressure on his leg became to much to bear. Eventually unable to support the force any longer, another loud crack was heard as Grey screamed out in anguish.

The giant held him in her hand, twisting his leg slightly as she closed her eyes and listened to the screams.

“Like music to my ears.”

 

The last twenty-four hours had been a waking nightmare. Each time Grey awoke he found his captor waiting for him, pinching his limbs and squeezing until the bones shattered. Every time she finished she would place him in the center of his palm before casting him in a warm glowing aura and smuttering a single spell.  

“Mend.”

Grey felt his bones snap and twist back into place, the broken cartilage healing itself with all the pain imaginable. The pain was worse than the actual breaking of the bones themselves. It was usually at this point that he’d pass out, only to awaken later and relive the experience over again.  

Finally Grey awoke to find himself in an location completely alien to him. The giantess held him in hand as she navigated through a series of dimly lit corridors. The decaying brickwork of the walls and ceiling surrounded them as passage arched into low tunnels that were lit only by occasional torch that lined the dampened walls.

“Just in time.” his captor spoke. “I was starting to think you wouldn’t wake up this time,  but don’t worry blondie I’ll restrain myself for now. I need you to be awake for this next part.”

The low flickering flames of the torches did little as Grey’s eyes strained to adjust to his new surroundings. He wasn’t sure where the giant had taken him, but by the looks of it it was clear that these were passages very few used.

As they traveled in silence Grey’s eyes began to adjust to the dim light allowing him to see a door that stood at the end of the tunnel. It appeared to be made of wood, affixed with iron reinforcements that had reddened with rust due to years of oxidizing. As his captor approached the door she stopped, raising her hand and knocking in a sequence of knocks that appeared well rehearsed.

“Enter.” a low voice echoed from within.

The giant gripped the iron handle and opened the door to reveal a small yet surprisingly lavish room inside. The room was made of the same brickwork as the corridor leading to it but was adjourned with decorations that gave it a much more comforting aesthetic. A small chandelier hung from the ceiling, and bookshelves lined the walls as a aged and dusted red carpet decorated with intricate designs laid strewn across the floor. On the other side of the room was a large bed made with crimson sheets that was paired with a impressive canopy with equally matching curtains. Despite the romm’s exuberant appearance Grey couldn’t help but be assaulted by a strong mildewy musk the air so densely it made it hard to breath.

In the center of the room, stationed directly in front of the door was a small wooden desk, papers strewn across its surface, and a ink well that sat on the corner. An old giant in yellowing stained white robes sat at the table. He appeared absolutely ancient, with long drooping jowls and wrinkles across his face that made him akin to a prune. What little hair that remained on his balding scalp came down as long white single strands, and his skin had taken on a sickly gray color, making it a wonder on how long it had been since he had last seen daylight. The most notable thing about this giant besides for his aged appearance was the blindfold he wore. It was black with a gold design that resembled eyes which reflected the flicking glints of light off the nearby candles. This effect gave him an uncanny gaze that made it almost seem as if he could still see through them.

“You’ve returned Jade.” the man spoke in a raspy yet surprisingly stern voice.

The giantess bowed, tightening her grip around Grey as she did.

“I have Lord Rowin.”

“I assume that your mission was a success?”

“It was not M’Lord.” the old giant’s face grimaced, and he opened his mouth as if to speak. “But wait!” Jade quickly added, surpinging even Grey as it was the first time she seemed to express anything even close to concern. “I would not have returned empty handed. I found something that I thought important enough for you to know about.”

The old man paused for a long moment, filling the room with an uncomfortable silence before raising a weak hand and motioning for her to continue.

“During my stake out of the property believed to be Amelia’s last known location, neither her nor the owner of the home returned. Instead a human arrived. This human showed knowledge of Amelia and not only that was able to discern my motives for being there. Upon my initial capture of said human he displayed the uncanny ability to use magic. Illusions to be precise.”

“Illusions?”

“Yes M’Lord. Simple illusions but most definitely magic in origin. I would like to add that he does not fit any of the physical records of a member of The Trinity, nor does his magic match the descriptions of those claimed to be wielded by them. Upon capture he appeared ignorant of these power, though I have yet to determine whether or not this was a ploy in an attempt to get me to lower my guard.”

“It wasn’t.” Grey said out loud.

He felt the giant’s hand grip around him, made all the more painful by the soreness in his limbs.

“Watch your tongue you filthy wretch!” Jade threatened. “One more word out of line and i’ll-”

“Bring him to me.” the old man said suddenly, silencing her at once.

“Of… of course Lord Rowin.”

Jade approached the desk quickly, gently settling Grey on its surface before retreating a few steps back. Grey couldn’t believe how sheepishly she obeyed him. This was the same giant Grey had witnessed slaughter he own kind with no hesitation and tortured him for hours just for her own amusement. As far as he could tell she was a league all her own, yet somehow this old man controlled her, terrified her even. There was something more to this old man then just a decrepit appearance, and while he was unsure what Grey knew it was something to be cautious of.

Looking up at the face of the old giant, Grey watched his head turned slightly as if to listen to Jade’s footsteps as she retreated back. Keen hearing despite his age apparently. The old man stunk of a smell that mimicked the room, mildew and other associated smells that was associated with thus who survived to such old age.

“What is your name human?” he asked after a moment.

“I… I… uh...” Grey muttered unsure how to respond.

“Answer quickly human or I-” Jade began.

The old man lifted his hand shakily before snapping together two bony fingers in a snap that reverberated across the small room. It was more than sufficient to silence the giantess.

“Now then human, your name, and if you could please speak clearly, my hearing is not what it used to be.”

A statement Grey doubted.

“I’m…” Grey began nervously. “I’m Grey.”

The old man went silent.

“Grey...” he uttered to himself. ”That is a name I have not heard in many years...” he leaned in further, almost as if to examine him with  the use of his fake golden eyes.

“Do you recognize me?” he asked wearily.

“Recognize you? I don’t know-”

“Jade.” the man interrupted. “Describe this human to me.”

“Of course Lord Rowin.” she answered immediately. “He is a human of average height and slim frame. His skin is fair, with green eyes and medium length ashy blonde hair.”

“I see.” the man muttered, sounding far less interested. “Well then, ‘Grey’… how is it that you know Amelia?”

Grey remained silent. These people were dangerous, that was clear. He didn’t know why they wanted Amelia but he was sure that after witnessing Jade in action it wasn’t for benign purposes. Still Grey found himself in a unique position, if he played his cards right he might be able to gleam some info about what was going on, that or be tortured to death. Either way that was a risk worth taking at this point.

“First,” Grey said breaking the silence. “Let me ask you the same question. How do you know Amelia?”

The room fell quiet as Grey’s words hung in the air. Peering over his shoulder Grey could see the mortified expression on Jade’s face, her mouth hung agape as she looked between him and the old man..

“Lord Rowin, I apologize for this human’s behavior. I will make sure he doesn’t-”

Jade stopped as both her and Grey heard the sound of weak hoarse laughter coming from the man. Turning back to him Grey saw the giant, mouth open, yellow teeth exposed as his head rocked slightly as he laughed. Eventually slowing to a stop he sat with a grinning expression as he opened his mouth to address Grey.

“You speak boldly for a human.” Rowin stated. “Just like he used to… Very well, let's make an exchange. A question for a question. For every answer you give me I will give you one in return. However, you must answer truthfully and I will hold myself to the same standards. Does that sound like a deal?”

Careful Grey.

“It does.” he answered without hesitation.

“Very well, I believe my first question still stands. How do you know Amelia?”

“I met her once.” Grey answered. “She saved my life and we parted ways soon after.”

Rowin remained silent as he thought over the response.

“Is that all?”

“Depends, is that another question your asking me?”

Grey was at first unsure how that response would be received, but as the old giant began to laugh again he was able to relax.

“Very good, it appears I’m dealing with a real haggler. I’ll respect your answer and now I believe I owe you an answer.

“In what now feels like a lifetime ago I was both Amelia’s teacher, and a close friend. In my youth I served the royal family as their expert on magic, being quite adept at my young age. I was made responsible for Amelia’s training in magic as she grew I was even appointed as her trusted confidant long after her abilities surpassed my own.”

The old man’s gaze seemed to stare off, as he spoke. As if looking a time long gone. Suddenly he turned to Grey, as if remembering where it is he was.

“Perhaps I’ve said too much. Back to the matter at hand I believe it is my time I ask a another question. So tell me, Do you know where Amelia is?”

“I don’t.” Grey answered hesitating.

“Now Grey,“ the old man sounding troubled. ”Remember we agreed to be truthful with one another.”

“I remember, and I’m telling you the truth.” he insisted. “You can cast a lie detecting spell on me if you like but you’ll find I don’t know.”

“A lie detecting spell? How do you know of such a thing?”

“Is that a question?” Grey said snarkily.

The old man did not smile this time.

“That will be unnecessary, as for your honesty I’ll choose to believe you. This time.” Rowin said. “Now what is it you wish to ask next?”

“What do you plan on doing after you find Amelia?”

“Straight to the heart of it.” he said. “You see Amelia’s return is… problematic to say the least. She’s been gone for over a century and things have changed a great deal since then. There are many alive today who revere her as a symbol of our kingdom’s power, there are those that see her as an incarnation of The Wandering Woman herself. If she were to suddenly remerge in today society well… people may be surprised to find she is not the person once thought to be. We intend to invite her to retire to the shadow, remain out of the eyes of society and if that outcome is not possible then well we will take precautions to make sure her legacy remains untarnished.”

“By that you mean kill her.”

“Is that a question?” Rowin asked coyly.

“More of a statement actually, but I think I’ve got the idea.” Grey said.

“Very well, now for my next question. How did you learn to use magic?”

“I’m afraid this question has the same answer as the last.” Grey answered playfully. “I don’t know.”

“I find that hard to believe Grey. Your magic must have a source, as all magic does. A human could not have learned to use magic out of thin air.”

“You sure about that? There are other humans just like me that awoke to their powers suddenly, I’m just another example of that.” Grey answered in defense.

A small smile formed across Rowin’s lips.

“Is that what you think?”

Grey was taken aback by his response. Something about the way he said it, implied there was much more than he knew..

“Your ignorance speaks for you.” Rowin said. “You are free to ask me whatever question you want next.”

Grey hesitated. There was a lot he still didn’t know. So far he had gotten lucky with the questions he had been asked, and while the old giant appeared amused with his sharpness at first Grey could tell it was starting to lose its charm. There was something very dangerous about this giant, something that even under his welcoming facade worried him. Still thus far he had learned a lot from Rowin. The old man was a wealth of knowledge, and so far Grey had been shooting in the dark. He needed to know more, about himself and the role he played in all of this, Amelia and her sudden return into the world, and so much he didn’t even know enough to ask. But he’d only get so many more questions before Rowin tired of this game. He needed to make this next one count.

“I need to know what happened to Amelia and Grey.”

There was a long pause before Rowin responded.

“Interesting.” he said, as he reclined back into his chair. “Very interesting indeed. I suppose the time has come for me to share this story with another. I suggest you listen closely human, for this is information very few alive are privy to… for me to answer your question to satisfaction, I need to know. What do you know about this other Grey?”

“Not much. Almost nothing in fact, I know he was a human but that's about it.” Grey said honestly.

“Indeed he was. Grey was a human, and a prince your kingdom in an era long since passed.In fact the way in which you speak reminds me a great deal of how he used to be, albeit a bit more rough around the edges, and not nearly as polite.

“Due to what I can only describe as extraordinary circumstances Prince Grey and his envoy were captured by a human catcher whilst away from The Capital. Grey was then purchased by castle staff, intended to be served to the royal family during that nights dinner but upon learning of his lineage the king and queen sought fit to give the prince to their daughter instead. After all a prince would serve as a appropriate meal for a princess.”

“But things didn't go that way.” Grey interrupted.

“You know the story already?”

“I know Amelia loved him.”

Rowin nodded.

“That she did. Grey was unlike other human she had met before, being a breed all of his own. Well mannered, well educated, quick to speak but clever enough to say the right things. At first her interest in him was purely out of fascination but the longer she kept him around the more those feelings changed. Soon he became her little secret. A secret she kept from everyone, but me.”

“You?” Grey said surprised.

Rowin smiled “Of course, I was Amelia’s confidant. She shared everything with me, Grey among them. In fact for a time I had the honor of considering the prince a close acquaintance of mine.”

“Grandfather you can't be serious!?” Jade exclaimed in surprise.

It was the first time Jade had broken her silence since Grey and Rowin’s discussion began. Looking as the old man’s face furrowed in anger, Grey could help but become nervous.

“You shall remain silent as I speak,” the old man declared harshly. “and I have warned you many times about addressing me in such a familial tone, I suggest you watch your mouth from here on out.”

Jade snapped straight as she ducked into a low apologetic bow.

“Yes Lord Rowin. Forgive me Lord Rowin.”

Rowin’s expression softened as he leaned back in his chair once more. Grey couldn’t help but watch Jade from the table, her ashamed gaze cast down on the floor.

Grandfather? He was her grandfather? That was something he was going to need to unpack later.

“Where was I... oh yes. It wasn't long before their relationship took an… unnatural turn. A romance blossomed between them in secrecy, one that even I remained unaware of for a time. Thing did not stay that way for long as not soon after Amelia's parents were poisoned, killed by a human assassin sent by your kingdom to obtain justice for the ‘death’ of their prince.

“This was the conflict that sparked the great war between our kind, and Amelia rose to inherit the title of queen. There are many stories that say that Amelia lead the war on a path to avenge her parents, but in truth she couldn't have been more against the violence. When she returned after her first month on the battlefield-hoping her presence would he more than enough to deter the human forces-she returned mortified of what she saw. The humans put up a surprisingly fair fight after the first few battles, taking a number of are kind with them. Amelia was heartbroken by the war, watching both giants and humans alike killed in this conflict. So with the help of Prince Grey they concocted a plan to end the war, a plan they invited me to ordain. They would have a marriage, one that hoped to unify the human and giant kingdoms under one house, thus ending the war. It was a foolish idea that would have lead to chaos and the ruin of both our worlds.

“I knew that this marriage needed to be stopped, but I was conflicted, unsure on how to proceed… and that's when ‘her’ voice called to me. The voice of the Wandering Woman herself.”

“Great. He’s delusional.”

“The voice spoke, guiding my actions and telling me what must be done. I followed her instructions to the letter and went about setting her plans in action. Despite my fondness for the human prince I orchestrated his death, and when it came I knew it wouldn’t be long before Amelia realized I had betrayed them. I couldn't face her on my own, not only had she long surpassed me in skill as my student, but I lacked the resolve it would have taken to kill her. However, the Wandering Woman provided me with a solution. A curse. An ancient form of magic that would seal Amelia away and assure she would never return. Even now I recall the words...

“To be cast into the void,

and exist with no end.

Until your final words,

are said to him again.”

“Those were the words I spoke, I hear them clearly in my mind as I did the day i spoke them, but curses are tricky things to create. Not only do they require a great deal of power and mastery to perform, but each one must be designed like a puzzle. As to every puzzle there is an answer, to every curse there is a method to reverse it. I had thought the curse impossible to undo, yet it has been. For that that to happen it would take more than just Amelia to accomplish, it would require Prince Grey’s involvement as well.”

“But... if he’s dead, then how could that happen?”

Rowin stared at him for a long moment, the reflection of light gleaming out the corner of his golden “eyes”.

“I think I've said enough. Grey, it was a pleasure to speak with you. You are certainly a breed of your own when it comes to humans, but it is clear you lack the knowledge I seek. Though it's come to my attention that I am conflicted on what to do with you. Perhaps I am in need of guidance...”

The old man’s gaze shifted to Jade. .

“Leave us.”

“Of course Lord Rowin.”

Jade bowed before leaving, shutting the wooden door behind her. Once he heard the door close Rowin raised his hands in the air and began to speak.

“Wandering Woman, mother of magic and watcher of our people, I seek your wisdom now! ”

Grey rolled his eyes.

“Okay this is a little too much even for me.”

Knowing the giant couldn’t see him, now seemed to be the perfect time to escape. Jade was gone, and while he knew she was skilled enough to catch him if given the chance, without her in the room he could attempt to find a way out. The room was so old, Grey knew if he looked hard enough he might find a hole leading somewhere else. At the very least there was plenty of things to hide behind.

Before he could take a single step however the candles in the room were blown out, as a cold breeze swept through. As far as Grey could tell this room was underground, far from any window or connection to the outside, and with their door closed there was no way a draft that strong could have-

She’s here.

The candle in the room relit suddenly, but the flames that burned on the candle wicks glowed with an uncanny purple flame. With this now strangely lit fire, it was difficult to make out many of the objects inside. Eventually Grey’s eyes began to adjust as he instinctively looked up towards Rowin. He sat in front of him just as he was a moment ago, his arms raised in the air, but as Grey looked more closely a great sensation of terror took hold as soon realized they were no longer alone.

Behind the blind old man stood a figure, a figure shrouded in robes with thier head tucked tightly behind the cowl of a dark hood. The figure leaned closely from behind, it’s face positioned besides his ear as Grey could faintly recognize the movement of lips whispering something in the darkness. Rowin nodded silently as the figure spoke, their faint voice and completely unintelligible. After a moment the figure stopped, standing at full height and turning it’s shadowy gaze towards the table. Grey watched in horror as the lips of this figure pursed into faint smile just as the candles went out, leaving the visage of the smiling figure imprinted in the darkness.

 

…

 

The new prison Grey found himself in was much roomier when compared to the pouch he had traveled in over the course of the past few days. It even allowed for a nice view as he was carried through the castle halls.

After the events with Rowin, Grey was once more handed off to Jade, yet looking at she  appeared now she couldn’t have been more different than how she was on the road. Her hair was neatly combed and she wore makeup that attempted to cover her scars. Instead of her dark leather armor she was now dressed in a fine black dress, something that Grey still had a hard time believing despite seeing it in front of him.

“You know it’s a shame.” she said after a bit. “After all the trouble you’ve given me I was really hoping that I would be the one to deal with you, but Lord Rowin’s orders are final, and I can’t say that a public execution isn’t appealing. I’ll have to make sure to stop by and see you off.”

Grey ignored her, instead remained silent and taking a moment to reflect on what Rowin had ordered His status as a magic capable human was substantial. The Trinity had been causing a stir within giant society and while many dismissed their abilities as just rumors, there were those who were starting to believe the stories of magic using giant killers. It was decided that Grey’s death may serve a purpose and ease the consciousness of other giants. So in a few days the royal palace would host a dinner party where Grey would be served as the main event. Devoured alive by the Queen herself, a symbol of authority and dominance even over this new breed of humans.

To assure he wouldn’t escape before the party the cage Grey was locked in was enchanted with spell that would block any magic he tried to cast while inside. It was identical to a spell Grey had witnessed one of Jule’s friends use after capturing Zeke.

As for where he was being taken Grey didn’t know, though he was surprised by how quickly the scenery had changed from Rowin’s lower chambers into the castle. One moment they were walking dark corridors and dimly lit stone halls then the next they were in a lavish hallway with royal portraits, expensive carpets, and windows draped with silk curtains.

“Getting a good look of the castle?” Jade surmised after watching him. ”I know how you think, and I want you to know that even if you did escape you’d have a harder time finding your back than you’d think.”

“I suppose you don’t want to test that theory, would you?”

Grey watched as she instinctively smirked.

“I hate to say it but I’m gonna miss you.”

“Becoming sentimental all of a sudden?”

“If I was I’d be breaking your leg one more time for good measure.” she mocked. “Just don’t miss me too much when the queen is about to swallow.”

“I think i’ll take her over you anyday.”

“I’m sure you’re girlfriend would disagree.” Jade said as she patted her stomach.

Grey didn’t so much as look her way as he responded.

“You better pray to your Wandering Bitch that I don’t find a way to escape.”

“On the contrary, I’ve been praying that you do.” she teased. “You see if you escape then it’ll be up to me to catch you and once I do catch you that’ll be it. You’d be mine. No queen, no Rowin, no mission. Just you and me and there’s a lot I’ve been dying to do since I got my hands on you.”

“So long as you get granddaddy's permission first. Don’t want him getting mad again.”

By the fact that Jade shook the cage enough to make him fall after saying that, Grey took it as a sign that he had won that exchange. A small comfort.

Before long Jade turned a corner and approached a set of doors that lead into a grand kitchen. Grey’s nostrils were immediately met with the alluring aroma of delicious foods being prepped as meats, vegetables and other goodies hung on the wall, and baskets of fruits and breads were splayed on the counters.

Once Jade stepped inside a nearly middle aged woman wearing an white apron turned to greet her. The woman had an olive like complexion, with raven hair and somewhat stout figure.

“Oh, Jade. Welcome!”

Jade put on probably the fakest smile Grey had ever seen as she brought up her voice in an attempt to sound cheerful.

“Olivia good to see you.”

The raven haired giant smiled.

“How have you been? I swear it's been months since I last saw you.”

“I’ve been very busy lately.” Jade struggled to say through a smile. “Just running errands for Lord Rowin.”

“And how is your grandfather doing?”

“Well considering his age he is doing very well. Did you get the instructions he sent?”

The woman looked somewhat startled.

“Oh yes, yes. Just moments ago actually.” she turned her attention to the cage Jade held in her hands. “Is this the one?”

“Yup, this is him.”

The giantess crouched to get a better look inside. Grey unsure how he might want to approach this giant shifted awkwardly as her eyes fell on him.

“So this is the human everyone's been talking about... can he really use magic?”

“He can, but it’s not what you think. His magic is limited to illusions and simple ones at that. It's how we believe he’s been pulling off all these claims of other powers. You don’t need to worry though, I’ve placed a magical seal over the cage so you won’t have to deal with any of his tricks.”

“Wandering Woman grace us, how is he able to do such a thing?”

“My grandfather and others are looking into that, we just need you to keep a close eye on him until the party. He’s a crafty one so it’s best to be on high alert when dealing with him, even without his magic.”

Jade held the cage out to her, and Olivia took it cautiously.

“Remember he is to be kept alive and well fed until the royal party.”

Olivia nodded. “Oh yes, I’ll keep him right as rain till then.”

“Good. Now if you excuse me I’m sure you have a lot prep to do.”

Jade gave Grey one final glance before departing, disappearing behind the doors and out of sight. After she left Olivia sighed with relief.

“That woman gives me creeps.” she said out loud to herself.

“We have something in common then.” Grey said in return.

The giant raised the cage to her face and looked him over.

“Sure. Now what am I going to do with you until the party?”

“Well personally I’ve always wanted to take up cooking, so I wouldn’t mind if you gave me a few pointers.”

The woman chuckled.

“Well at least you’ve got a sense of humor.”

“What can I say, it’s part of my charm.” Grey shrugged throwing it off as nonchalant.

“Quite, but I’m afraid I don’t have the time to deal with your charm today so uh...”

Olivia looked around the kitchen as she decided what to do.

“Ahh well, I guess so long as you’re in your cage I can put you with the others.”

Olivia lowered the cage, holding it firmly against her chest as she made her way across the kitchen. Her ample bosom pressed against the bars, swelling slightly as if tempting him to cop a feel. While the thought appealed to him Grey held himself to higher standards than that, though that didn’t stop him from admiring the view. After a moment of watching the jiggling mounds sway against his cage Grey turned in time to see what looked like a large glass tank with a lid that the giantess carefully removed.

Inside Grey got a glimpse of what looked like a village. The floor was covered in a green material that was meant to resemble grass, and the buildings were mostly uniform, though small even by humans standards, maybe about large enough to fit only a couple people at a time. More surprising than the fake grass and cramped buildings however, was the fact that Grey saw this village was inhabited by other humans. They were all clothed in simple attire and seemed physically at least in very good condition. Many of these humans looked his way as his cage was brought into view,  being set down in the middle of the “town” Grey watched as men and women alike crowded out of their makeshift homes to see what was going on.

“Alright now, listen up.” Olivia announced. “This here is a special human. He gonna be served directly to the queen herself in a few days. Make sure to keep him well fed and looking good for the party. If any of you start any trouble I’ll make sure you’ll be the first to be served to the guests. Understood?”

With that the giantess closed he lid over the enclosure, sealing them inside. Grey watched the crowd of humans that surrounded his cage, he was speechless. They looked at him with such confusion and concern, and while some openly talked about him no tried talking to him. But what surprised Grey more than their reclusive behavior, was just how many of them there were in here.

Before Grey could begin to ask questions the crowd parted as two large men approached the door to the cage.

“Move aside, boss wants this opened up.” one of them announced.

The first man took out a small object, almost like a sharp stone, wedging it in the doors lock as he fought to pry it open. The other man helped, using the strength of his upper body to pull the door back. Grey watched in amazement as the lock broke and the door was flung open, granting him his freedom.

“Wow thanks for that. I really’ don’t know what to-” Grey began only to be silenced as the two men rushed in and pinned him to the ground.

“Hey!?” Grey exclaimed in confusion. “What the hell are you doing!? Get off!”

Grey tried to throw them off but the two men hand nearly a hundred pounds over him, making struggling a losing battle. Still trying to figure out what was going on, a voice spoke, one that made his blood run cold as he heard it.

“My, my, my, aren’t we a sight for sore eyes.”

Grey stopped struggling as he had heard the voice before. He struggled to lift his head as he looked up and saw a face, a face he had not seen in many years. The face of a smiling man, with small scars littered across the side of his face.

“J… jack?”

“Hello Grey. It's so good to see you again.”

Then everything went black.