A large cloth was piled in a heap on the floor. Kate held a carpet bag and candle stick. The flame revealed a dark form slumped against the bars of the cage. Kate was taken back by the condition the creature was in. The animal was covered in rotten food, sinew, and dried blood. He had swollen eyes, cheeks, and lips that were dry and cracked. The cage was metal and over the door. In big red letters, a sign spelled "Ferocious Beast."<br/><br/>She opened the cage with a wave of her hand and sat on the floor. "You poor thing. Come out. I will protect you. I am Lady Katheryn Lyons. You may call me Kate or Katie. I am a healer mage. May I hold your paw or hand, please."<br/>Kate spoke in a soft, tender, confident voice.  Her heart broke seeing the neglect of the being with cat like eyes. She did not fear the form as he was in no condition to fight. She did not move or look him in the eyes. She gave no sign that she was a threat. He had been taunted and beaten enough.