As soon as the princess and their entourage mounted their horses a huge black silhouette darted towards Ben and tackeled him to the ground.
The princess screemed. The fear of the enormous spirit beast overpowered their abilities. It's killing intent and aura making them shake in fear. The horses started to move around in fear. Yet, they stood guard infront of their Princess, weapons in their hands shaking.
"Relax everyone, she is my friend." Alan spoke with a wide grin on his face. Then he started to pat the necks of other horses which became calm instantly . "She is just exited to meet Ben after a long time."
"Cut it out Blacky. It tickles. Hey..... Stop it. Ha ha ha...." Ben's voice came from under the enormous Black Panther's form.
After more than 5 minutes. Ben came out of it's cuddle and wiped his face from his sleves.
"Dam, Al, she had grown big. And strong." Ben scratched under the big cat's jaw making her purr in content. " Did you find someone interesting in your travel?" Ben asked and looked at Alan to translate her words.
"Shaking his head in defeat, Alan conveyed her words. " She says, she is one of a kind and finding a partners who can meet her requirements is difficult. Till such time, she will concentrate on her training with me."
"You spoiled brat. Do you think you are so capable?" Ben lifted the big cat and spun her around laughing as if she was a kitten.
Gasps were heard around them. "Ah, sorry about that. This is Blacky our friend. And Alan's daughter." Ben spoke with a mischievous smile.
"Ha...!!!" Everyone looked at Alan, puzzled.
"Vey funny." Alan rolled his eyes. " I helped her mother once and then she tagged along me on my journey."
"Are you also a beast Tamer?" Sharon asked exitedly wondering about other hidden abilities these two brothers might posses.
"No I am not. I just can understand beasts." Alan shook his head to clarify.
"Alright, let us start walking. We need to cover a few more miles before we rest for the night. Girl, scout ahead and let me know if there is anything amis." Alan scratched the head of the Black Panther and said in fondness.
With a contented purr and a lick to his face, the beast vanished from everyone's view. "Damn, she has even gotten faster, Al." Ben shook his head in amazement.
"Come on, lets start moving." Alan motioned everyone and started walking forward.
The Black Panther reappeared once they settled near a small stream and settled down next to the brothers. Although everyone were affraid of the new arrival initally, they got used to the spiritual beast as the journey continued. Due to it's presence, they didn't encounter any beasts on their journey.
It was almost an unnatural one. In their experience, the soldiers atleast had to face a beast or a bandit group. But, during this journey back home, they encountered, none. Nothing!!!
As they drew closer to civilization, the Spiritual beast's visit reduced and on the last night of their journey, Alan and Ben played with the Black Panthey for sometime before sending her off into the wilderness saying, they will catch up to her once things are taken care of.
"Make sure to be near the edge of the forest when the trolls approach the city. If required I will call you." Alan rubbed her neck while the Beast gave out a deep contented hum, licked his face once and disappeared from their view.