Kemm watched as the human stroked and whispered to the Vressian acid beasts. How could a creature with no horns or claws wield such power and influence? Were humans psychic?

Another human appeared in the doorway holding four metal bowls that reeked of raw meat. This one was slightly taller and more muscular than the first. "I came as fast as I could." It said, slowly creeping towards the momentarily passive creatures. "Who do you think let the dogs out?"

The first human shrugged and placed a bowl in front of each beast. They eagerly devoured the offerings and licked the bowls clean before slumping over in a drugged stupor.

The human gave them a full inspection, stopping momentarily to pluck something from between the pads on a beast's paw.

Kemm saw a glint of metallic purple before the human pocketed whatever it was they had found. "Get them to the infirmary, they'll need fluids and a full checkup."

The human turned to Kemm, noting the golden sigils woven into his dark hair. "You did well, youngling. Am I to believe that you are a member of house Jerr?"

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"Yes, sir." Kemm looked over the human, noting the dirt and agricultural tools. "Are you a warrior or a gardener? You dress like a gardener, but are fearless like a warrior."

"Better to be a warrior in a garden than a gardener in a war, after all it is always better to be in a garden, no matter what your profession." The human answered. "I think we can both agree on that."

Kemm considered the human's words. They had the ring of truth. "I believe that peace is preferable, warrior or not."

"On that we are agreed, young overseer." The human reached into a pocket and pulled out a handful of fresh red Ukim berries. "Would you like some?"

The youngling took the offered food happily. "Thank you." He said, savoring the intense sweetness. "These are most excellent, probably some of the best I've had."

"Then it is my pleasure to share the fruits of my humble garden with you." The human said with a nod. "Now we have to find the other escaped creature before it gets into trouble."

Kemm looked at the three acid beasts, noticing for the first time the numbered ear tags. The one he had begun to think of as Scar wore a four, meaning that there was at least one more beast that needed finding.

He hesitated. The human noticed his reluctance and shook its head. "There's no shame in being afraid, young overseer. But these creatures need our help and if we are able to offer help to them then we should do what we can."

Once again the human's words rang true. "Alright," Kemm said. "I suppose if we can help, then we must."

"An answer worthy of an emperor." The human said with approval, taking the fourth bowl of meat and gesturing for Kemm to follow.