Free Bastial Frenzy (The Rhythm of Rivalry: Book 4) by B.T. Narro Page A

written to Steffen. She’d put his letter in Effie’s envelope to save on postage. It read:
     
    Steffen,
    They posted lists around the city of all those who died at the Academy. The one near my house had hundreds of people crowding around it to look. I was nearly trampled. I was so nervous I would find your name or my sister’s. I’m so thankful everyone is alright. I can’t believe it has come to this, with a list informing me whether you’re alive or dead. I hate it.
    I understand not being able to visit. Train hard so you can protect yourself. I miss the days we spent together without fear of battle, but they’ll be back once this is over.
    Let me know how you’re doing.
     
    —Love, Gabby
     
    She sounded older with each letter she wrote. It must be the war, Steffen figured. There’s no denying there’ll be more fighting. She’s come to terms with this.
    Effie appeared in his doorway. “Done reading your letters?”
    Steffen hadn’t read the one from his mother yet, but he knew exactly what it would say. She would tell him how worried she was and would want him to write back about everything he was doing to keep himself safe.
    “Just about,” he answered.
    “What did Gabby say to you?”
    Steffen handed her the letter.
    Effie mumbled some of the words as she sped through it. When she was done, she said, “Gabby sounds different in your letter also. I can’t figure out what it is. Is she no longer afraid?”
    “She might be scared but doesn’t want to show it.”
    “Is that how you feel?”
    “Not at this moment.” Steffen was surprised by his answer. “Although, maybe I should be.”
    Effie shook her head. “I think it’s good that you’re not.”
    “Are you afraid?”
    “I think so. I’m scared of falling when I’m up high. But the fear goes away when I get down. These days, I have this feeling like I’m going to fall, this constant nagging that it’s going to happen but I don’t know when.”
    “I think we all feel that, including Gabby,” Steffen said. “It makes sense. A battle unlike any in the history of Ovira is coming.”
    Effie shivered. “Bastial hell, Steffen. You always know the worst thing to say.”
    He apologized as she turned to go back to her room.
     
    Not many chemists went with Hem Baom to Tenred. In fact, even the head chemist, Jack Rose, stayed behind. Steffen realized he had questions for him and visited Jack’s house after writing his return letters.
    Steffen was delighted when his knocks were answered. “One moment,” Jack called. Opening it to find Steffen, he grinned. “And what brings you here?” The master chemist had a quill in hand. Steffen noticed papers on the table behind him.
    “Are you busy?” Steffen asked. “I have some questions I was hoping we could discuss briefly.”
    “Briefly, yes. Come in. You’re wondering about the caregelows?”
    “How did you know?”
    “Every chemist is. All of the plants appear to be undamaged by the battle. Most of the carnage occurred in other places. They’re growing very fast and should be ready for testing soon. Are you excited?”
    “Yes. But I’m more looking forward to everything going back to normal. When will those who marched to Tenred return?”
    “Fifteen days.” Jack’s mouth twisted. “But I wouldn’t say things are going back to normal, not until this war is over, and even then.” His voice trailed off. “Were those your only questions? Liaison Wilfre wants to see a schedule by tomorrow morning of how every day will be spent while Terren is gone. He has me working far into the night.”
    “That’s all,” Steffen lied, not wanting to disturb the master chemist any longer. “Thank you.”
    Jack seemed to know there was more Steffen wanted to discuss. He smiled to show his appreciation. “Come back tomorrow, if you would like.”
    “Thank you,” Steffen repeated, closing the door behind him.
    Hunger was gnawing at his stomach, but first he returned home to see if Effie wanted