*****

“Could this bird of yours be any prettier?”

As they ventured through the back alleys of the village, Abtin kept a watchful eye, making sure that none of the Eagle Bearers spotted Babak. Finally, they reached the blacksmith workshop. During their journey, Babak had managed to charm the local villagers, quickly turning their initial surprise at the arrival of a stranger into warmth and camaraderie. Abtin had no qualms about the villagers because he knew that they hated the Eagle Bearers as much as he did. He was confident that they would not report the arrival of this stranger to the village authorities. Abtin discreetly adjusted the fabric around Babak's head to ensure that his hair remained completely hidden underneath. However, the one person Babak hadn't managed to win over was Sana, who had been perched on Abtin's shoulder for the latter half of their journey and was now eyeing Babak with suspicion.

Abtin leaned in close and whispered to Sana, "I know you have your doubts, but try not to be too obvious about it. He noticed you were watching from above, presumably in case an Eagle Bearer appeared on our path. What should I tell him now that you're perched on my shoulder?"

Sana let out a sigh of frustration but did not take her eyes off Babak. Despite all of Babak's praises of her golden hair, shiny black tips, and big eyes, she remained wary. Abtin, though naturally cautious and somewhat skeptical, believed that Babak's expressions were genuine—or at the very least, he was a remarkable actor with unclear motives. But Sana's role over these years had been to scrutinize the negative aspects of situations.

"She might be pretty, but she's certainly distrustful," Babak remarked, his eyes still focused on Sana. Then he turned to Abtin with a curious expression, inquiring, "Say, what kind of people are these Eagle Bearers you've mentioned? Have they harmed anyone? Who are they taking orders from?"

Abtin briefly scanned their surroundings before responding, "They arrived with a decree from the governor. Unfortunately, our kadkhoda could not meet the governor to seek more details."

As they continued towards the workshop, their conversation faded. Inside the workshop, the furnace was ready, but Sohrab, the blacksmith, was conspicuously absent. Abtin, being a close friend to Sana and therefore inclined to worry at such points, began to speculate on the reasons behind Sohrab's delay. He couldn't help but wonder if this was somehow connected to Babak's predicament. With increasing uncertainty in the air, he finally decided, "I want to start work even before my master arrives. You can sit behind the wooden curtain next to the raw iron blades. This way, if the Eagle Bearers happen to pass by the front of the workshop, they won't spot you. Caution is paramount."

Babak nodded in agreement, stating, "That's a wise approach. Although, if I were in your shoes, I'd probably still be somewhat suspicious of me."

Abtin raised an eyebrow and asked, "Do you want me to suspect you?"

Babak chuckled, "No, not at all. I'm just saying..."

Abtin cut him off, "Well, then, just sit there and save the arguments for later."

Babak complied and settled behind the wooden curtain beside the iron blades, holding one of the blades as he began their conversation:

"So, while we have time, tell me a little about this place."

Abtin continued his work while responding, "Ask more specific questions, and I will answer you."

Babak pondered for a moment and then inquired, "For example, tell me what Farnas is famous for?"

Abtin paused in his work, reflecting on the question before answering, "The appearance of the mountain itself is very unique. It's like a div who has fallen, and only his head is sticking out of the ground."

But Babak sought a different kind of information, asking, "No, I meant what is the souvenir here, or what is here that other places either don't have or don't have of this quality?"

Abtin's eyes lit up as he responded, "Aha. Well, there is a plant called Mehrine, which has many medicinal properties if combined with other things. I've heard that in this region, this plant grows only in Farnas."

Babak was curious about the certainty of this statement, so he probed further, asking, "You've heard? You mean, you are not sure?"

Abtin explained, "No one leaves the village much these days. I imagine people in other places are the same. Once a year, maybe a few carters and businessmen move much-needed goods between more populated areas. But that's all."

Intrigued by this isolation, Babak asked, "Do you know why this is?"

Abtin ventured a guess, saying, "Habit... I guess. The roads are full of danger. Hardly anyone uses them. Kadkhoda himself was quite angry at the Eagle Bearers, and the residents pressured the poor man to go to Pashiam."

As the conversation continued, Babak's curiosity deepened, and he asked, "Uhmm... this Mehrine that you said... have you ever had to use it yourself?"

Abtin revealed a personal experience, saying, "Only once. When I was eight years old, an accident happened to me that might have damaged my spine so much that I could no longer use my legs. But fortunately, Ardeshir came with Mehrine and treated me."

Intrigued by the mention of Ardeshir, Babak inquired further, "Who is this Ardeshir? Is he the village doctor?"

Abtin clarified, "No. Carpenter. Of course, he is not the main carpenter of the village. He does work here, but he's usually not around. There is no specific time for his coming and going. Comes and goes as he pleases, and you may not hear from him for several months. Apparently, he has seen a lot of the world."

Babak was captivated by the idea of Ardeshir's adventures and probed deeper, asking, "How interesting! Are you close to him? Has he ever told you a story about his adventures?"

"He is not a very talkative person. He is usually busy with his work. Everyone respects him, but he doesn't chum up to anyone."

"So, you were pretty lucky to have him around and help you when you needed him."

"Well... I always saw Ardeshir as a stepfather... I mean, during these years, when I really needed him, he was always there."

"Is he here now?"

"Yes, I am here."

The sound of a firm voice coming from the side of the alley made Abtin look up from the sword he was working on. A broad-shouldered man who was either gray or black from head to toe and from his shirt and bear skin to his bear skin pants and wolf skin boots, was standing there and his gray eyes were staring at him from behind the strands of his long black hair that reached down to his back. His pointed black beard was short, but long enough to wave gently in the morning breeze.

"Did something happen, Ardeshir?"

Abtin, who could not hide his happiness at the sight of a rare visit from Ardeshir, asked this question. Ardeshir looked at the wooden curtain behind which Babak was sitting and said:

"I think you should say."

By looking at Babak, Abtin implied that he could come out from behind the curtain, and at the same time he explained to Ardeshir:

"When I was going to visit the Spring Tree, I found him in the hut. He's lost his memory. We are going to call him Babak - for now."

Ardashir went to Babak. Babak was a shoulder-length taller than Abtin but in front of Ardashir, he looked like a child in front of an adult.

"So you are Ardeshir of Farnas! I'm glad to see you!"

Ardeshir didn't let Babak's outstretched hand hold, and held out his right hand, which had a deformed scar on his fist; At the same time he corrected him with a calm tone but with a heavy and subversive look:

"I am not from Farnas. So, you've lost your memory?"

Ardeshir stared right into Babak's eyes to hear his answer. Babak, glancing at Abtin, confirmed with honesty, "Yes." Ardeshir made a thoughtful sound deep in his throat, his gaze fixed on Babak for a moment. Then, he turned towards Abtin, who had resumed hammering, and continued:

"Did you consider how he managed to reach your cabin without anyone noticing?"

"Perhaps he arrived under the cover of night."

"Even then, wouldn't one of the Eagle Bearers have spotted him?"

"He might be highly skilled in moving stealthily. I caught a glimpse of his abilities earlier this morning."

"And you didn't find it suspicious?"

The narrative has been illicitly obtained; should you discover it on Amazon, report the violation.

"Suspicious of what?"

"To suspect someone of his age, with the skills to evade the Eagle Bearers' watchful eyes, coming to Farnas - what could be the purpose?"

"Naturally, the whole situation is peculiar. But now that he has lost his memory, what can we do? Maybe he didn't choose to come here and was forced. There were signs of a skirmish outside my house, yet I saw no one else. I was actually hoping you might provide a solution."

Ardashir stroked his beard and calmly stated:

"I've been gathering information about the origins of their mission since my first encounter with the Eagle Bearers. They are seeking a specific individual. And not only do I know that this individual is the young man here, but I also know who he is "

Abtin paused with the hammer in hand, expressing surprise simultaneously with Babak.

"What!?"

"Yes, and I also know the identity of the Eagle Bearers."

Anxiously, Abtin asked:

"Who are these Eagle Bearers? Weren't they sent by the governor's office?"

Babak pulled Abtin aside, his enthusiasm clear:

"Never mind them! Tell me, who am I?"

Ardashir, unperturbed by the boys' intense curiosity, continued in his composed tone:

"Several years ago, when I was searching for a particular artifact... Well, that's another story. I encountered this young man for the first time in a western city called Jangar. They held martial arts competitions there, with rules contrary to our customary contests. In our wrestling, there's no striking or beating, but in these matches, participants fight with the intent to kill, using any means necessary."

Abtin furrowed his brow, wondering how this related to Babak's story.

"I witnessed many remarkable events there, although I didn't necessarily approve of all of them. Descendants of ancient sorcerers, div-capturers, and more. However, this young man's face reminded me of something else. In the battle arena, the sensation of that year was a boy, perhaps nine or ten years old at most, with silver hair. Up until the time I left the arena, he singlehandedly defeated a dozen men, each ten times his size and wearing significantly heavier armor, all in less than a minute."

A lump formed in Abtin's throat.

"I'll never forget that face, no matter where I go or how much time passes. Even though he was often covered in blood from head to toe, he stands out unmistakably."

Both Ardashir and Abtin fixed their gaze on Babak, curious about his reaction. Instead of a tense atmosphere, Babak broke into a wide smile and nodded in agreement.

"It makes sense! This feeling of power coursing through my body and the concealed weapons I've been discovering in the secret pockets of my clothes since I regained consciousness, it aligns with the description you've given."

Babak playfully punched the heavily shocked Abtin in the shoulder and continued:

"This is quite handy! All I need to do now is make my way to this Jangar place. I'm certain I'll find clues there to unlock my past. That's the plan!"

Abtin, at a loss for words, stared at Babak. Just a short while ago, he had been a regular teenage boy recovering from a terrible accident—or at least, that had been one possibility. Ardeshir, with his arms crossed, took in the scene.

"I'm not concerned about those battles. All those people he defeated were among the vilest individuals I've ever seen, and I've seen plenty in my lifetime! My real worry is the sheer amount of power he wields at such a young age."

It took a moment for Abtin to digest this new revelation, and once he did, he felt some relief. His perception of Babak had shifted drastically in a short span. Now, Ardeshir addressed Babak directly:

"However, it's not as simple as that. I mentioned that I'd been keeping an eye on the Eagle Bearers because something about their attire struck me as familiar from the beginning. I had my suspicions, though they didn't quite make sense until I saw you

Instead of Abtin, who had been intrigued by this matter moments earlier, Babak asked:

"Who are they?"

"They are the arena's guards, working for the arena manager. My hunch is that they've come to retrieve you."

"Well, that's good! So they're allies, not enemies!"

"Think again. The circumstances surrounding your arrival, those armed individuals bearing the governor's decree—don't they suggest that your departure from Jangar wasn't exactly peaceful? Since when do the Jangar soldiers have any dealings with the governor of Pashiam?"

Babak rubbed his chin thoughtfully:

"That's a good point. So, what's the plan?"

"I agree with your decision to go to Jangar. Even if their intent isn't to harm you, it's clear they won't resolve matters peacefully. Talking to their leader might be more productive if we get him alone. Furthermore, a visit to Jangar itself might trigger the return of your memories."

Abtin, still recovering from his shock, repeated Ardeshir's words, "If we get him alone? Are we going to go there?"

Ardeshir responded with a gracious look:

"You've always wanted to see the fields outside Farnas since as long as I can remember. This could be a good opportunity. I would have had to head west sooner or later. So, this journey will simply commence a bit earlier than planned, with one more task added to the list."

Abtin clenched his teeth, realizing that he hadn't even explained the significance of waiting for the blue handkerchief to Ardeshir. Those who knew about his daily visits to the Spring Tree had various speculations, but none that included something like this. The commitment he made to his father weighed heavily on his mind, and as he looked at Babak, filled with eager anticipation, he sighed and said:

"I can't go. There's some unfinished business I need to take care of here."

Babak hastily stepped forward:

"What? Unfinished business? Come on, don't be a buzzkill! We'll have a great time!"

Ardashir gently but firmly moved Babak aside, giving him a look that conveyed wisdom and a hint of reprimand. Then, he turned to Abtin and asked:

"Is there a problem?"

"No, it's just... I'll help Babak escape from here for sure. But I need to think before I decide to go for myself."

Ardeshir locked his gray eyes onto Abtin's brown ones, silently holding his gaze for a few moments. It was as if he had found his answer. He placed a hand on Babak's shoulder and said:

"Alright, let's plan for our departure. I can..."

"Ardeshir!"

Abtin interrupted Ardashir, and both he and Babak turned their attention towards the entrance of the workshop. Ardashir, following their gazes, was met with the sight of an Eagle Bearer of similar height and build to himself. Abtin immediately recognized him, realizing it was the same enormous man who had confronted him in the village square a few hours earlier. If Nana Ison hadn't intervened at that time, Abtin could only imagine what that Eagle Bearer might have done to him.

The man's gaze first landed on Ardeshir's face, taking in his imposing presence with his long, arched eyebrows, thin lips that always seemed to tilt slightly downward, and his finely crafted clothing. Then, his eyes moved from Ardeshir to Abtin, who was gripping the hammer and the hot, gleaming blade he had been working on more tightly than before. Finally, the man's gaze shifted to Babak. Abtin keenly observed the man's eyes as they examined Babak's face, detecting the subtle movements that indicated his detailed inspection. A twitch of the pupils as he seemingly matched Babak's silver hair to his profile, another movement as he observed Babak's distinctive skin color compared to the villagers... and then he spoke:

"Hand over the boy."

The man's rough voice shattered the silence that had enveloped the workshop, the only background noise being the chilly winter breeze. Abtin, momentarily forgetting Ardashir's counsel, positioned himself in front of Babak, facing the man. He raised his hammer and the bright, hot blade threateningly. Abtin could not dismiss the possibility that one of these Eagle Bearers might have played a role in the disaster that befell Babak, a scenario that he had not yet fully comprehended. Was it plausible that one of them, thinking they had completed their mission and killed him, had left the scene and returned to their companions in the village to deliver the news?

"I've been searching for this boy for months. Now that I've found him, I won't release him until I've taken him away."

The man's declaration served as confirmation for the words exchanged between the trio. He unhooked his ax, hanging from his back, while staring at Ardeshir. Since Ardeshir was seen as the person in charge of this small group, the man shot him a pleading look from inside his helmet as he began to draw his weapon. Ardeshir sighed and calmly replied:

"I wish you hadn't come."

The man hesitated for another moment, then let out a scream and drew his weapon, preparing for a confrontation. The workshop, with its narrow and small confines, posed a challenge for the tall Eagle Bearer. When he raised his ax above his head, the blade got stuck in the roof's straw, causing some to fall on his head. Seizing the opportunity, Ardeshir swiftly stepped forward, and Abtin noticed the rapid movement of his hand. It happened too fast for Abtin to be certain, but it was effective nonetheless. The Eagle Bearer's hand released its grip on the ax handle, which remained lodged in the ceiling, and before the man's body hit the ground, Ardeshir caught him and gently laid him down.

Ardeshir then turned his gaze towards Abtin and Babak. Their expressions ranged from round-eyed amazement to doubt, tinged with excitement. Abtin, who felt as though his fists were still poised in a defensive stance, began to speak passionately:

“How could you do it so...?”

However, Abtin's words were cut short when Ardeshir calmly turned to him and took a few steps forward, bringing himself just a hair's breadth away from the tip of the fiery red blade held in Abtin's hand. Gazing down at Abtin, Ardeshir explained:

“He's not dead, only unconscious. Just a few moments ago, I was defending our path of wrestling, if you recall.”

Ardeshir then turned to Babak, who wore a slightly furrowed brow along with the faintest of smiles, revealing his mixed feelings towards Ardeshir.

“Don't think I won't keep my eyes on you. You're here for a reason, and until that reason is known, trust is hard to come by.”

Babak's frown remained, and his faint smile persisted.

“As I mentioned, I've seen you in a situation that Abtin can't even fathom. I want to help you for several reasons, one of which is to prevent a war from igniting here in Farnas. I've witnessed what you're capable of, and I don't want anything to change in this place—the only location where I've never seen a fight.”

Ardeshir, not typically the talkative one in the group, had no choice but to set the tone for the conversation. He turned to Abtin and gestured towards the Eagle Bearer.

“We can't hide this indefinitely. His companions will likely come searching for him soon. We must depart as swiftly as possible, but without being seen by anyone.”

Abtin lowered his head for a moment to control his nerves. This was Ardeshir who stood before him, the one who had been his savior during the fire five years ago. As for Babak, he tried his best to justify the teenager's past, attributing the murders to the evilness of the victims, as suggested by Ardeshir. When Abtin raised his head, he spoke with a calmer tone.

“My master has not come to the workshop today. He's never late. If he's not here on time, he must be sick. We can hide the man right here in the workshop. Tomorrow night is the ‘night of casting away troubles’. The entire village will gather around the Spring Tree for a ceremony. Surely, some of the Eagle Bearers will attend. That's our best chance.”

Ardeshir nodded in agreement.

“That's a good suggestion. I'll go home to prepare for the move. You stay here for now. Tomorrow night, Babak will be here, and you'll take part in the ceremony. During the ceremony, you can make an excuse to leave and retrieve Babak from here. Head to the village gate. When the moon reaches its zenith, I'll join you. Until then...”

Ardeshir walked into the alley and whistled. Ardeshir entered the alley and whistled. Abtin was taken back as Sana came flying and perched on Ardeshir's index finger. Ardeshir stroked her head while reaching into his pocket, where he retrieved a handful of delicate, hair-like strands, reminiscent of glass, bundled together. Sana eagerly devoured the fine threads, so thin that they would be almost invisible if not for their grouping.

Babak couldn't help but inquire, "What's that?"

Ardeshir responded calmly without taking his eyes off Sana, "It's Abgineh, a type of plant. This area is full of it as it grows alongside Mehrine. Its threads are so thin they're practically invisible, very long, and impossible to tear even with a razor. But a hoopoe can easily consume them. Did you gather the information?"

Babak shrugged, and Ardeshir continued, "Sana knows where I am. During this time, she's watching over you from afar to ensure you don't do anything unusual."

Babak went to the fallen Eagle Bearer, lifted the giant figure onto his shoulder, and placed him behind the wooden curtain. When he turned to Ardeshir, his smile was even brighter.

“Everything remains safe and secure.”

Ardeshir locked eyes with Babak for a moment before speaking:

“I will keep my eyes on you. You came here for a reason, and we don't know why yet. I want to help you for several reasons, including avoiding a war in Farnas. But remember, I've seen your capabilities, and I don't want things to change here, the only place I've never seen a fight.”

Abtin and Babak observed Ardeshir's stern gaze and waited for his next words.

“As I mentioned earlier, I encountered you in a situation Abtin can't even imagine. I want to keep you under observation until we learn your purpose. The fact that I want to help you is driven by multiple motives, but one of them is my desire to prevent any conflicts here in Farnas. I've witnessed your extraordinary abilities, and I don't want them to disrupt the peace in this village.”

Ardeshir rarely played the role of the talkative member of a group or the one to warm up the atmosphere, but circumstances required him to speak. He turned to Abtin, pointing at the Eagle Bearer:

“We can't keep this hidden forever. His companions will soon come looking for him. We need to move as quickly as possible. However, no one should see our departure.”

Abtin had an emotional moment of silence before he approached Ardeshir and whispered:

“Is he telling the truth about his memory?”

Ardeshir gave him an inquisitive look, and Abtin continued:

“You have a way of knowing when people are telling the truth or not. I saw you use the same method with Babak. That's why I wanted you to meet him. Was he telling the truth?”

Ardeshir took a moment, allowing Abtin's heart to freeze before he nodded slowly. He left, and Abtin sighed with a mix of emotions. As he struggled to process the newfound information, he hesitated to look at Babak. He absentmindedly resumed his hammering, glancing at Babak out of the corner of his eye. Babak started tying up the fallen Eagle Bearer, all the while whispering a mysterious melody.

*****