Chapter 339: Among Allies
The mess hall was a spacious, open series of tents surrounded by cookfires. The camp I had stayed in before left cooking up to each squad, yet that must have been too inefficient for this many soldiers. A large, pot-bellied man stood surveying the gathered line of soldiers, shouting orders and smacking heads with his ladle whenever one got out of line.
Most soldiers returned to their tents to eat or sat on the ground around the mess hall. But as we approached, Sarra waved us over to one of the few tables beneath the shade of the canvas. They must have been reserved for officers because a few low-ranking captains were glaring at the fourth-level mage, disgruntled with being displaced. However, their expressions changed the moment they caught sight of us, and they sharply saluted before leaving without further complaint.
"Ah, there’s the wolf!"
I glanced up, brow creasing in confusion, as the potbellied man charged toward us. To my surprise, Fable rose to meet him, allowing the man to grab him around the scruff and pet him. I felt a flash of jealousy and quickly smothered the feeling, but I couldn’t help feeling a little bitter. How come Fable didn’t try and lick his face? Also, why was he letting someone else pet him?
The cook let go of Fable and turned toward us, taking in our party with a raised eyebrow. His gaze settled on me and he raised an eyebrow. "You are this wolf’s master? No offense, but you hardly look fit to command such a majestic beast."
His tone wasn’t unkind, or even particularly disrespectful, but I flinched all the same. "I’m sorry," I said, staring at my lap.
Fable padded back to me and nuzzled my cheek with his nose. I sighed and stroked his cheek, looking up as the cook suddenly gasped and threw himself on the ground. I blinked and tilted my head, confused, as he began to grovel.
"My Lady! Forgive this humble cook his words. I didn’t recognize you at first, and terribly misspoke!" he cried, voice trembling with fear.
The commotion began to draw the attention of others, so I quickly held out my hand, raising him up. "I-it’s alright. There’s nothing to apologize for."