What could have been II [Mature]

((This thread takes place on an alternate timeline. Closed to Amari.))

“Jake, I’m never going to learn to fight like you,” Amari said, crossing her arms so the wooden practice sword he’d foisted upon her rested in the crook of her arm.

“You say that now,” The half elf replied, holding his own liviol tonfa in a low guard, “but what if one day you need to defend yourself, and all you have is a sword? Or a stick?” With a sigh Amari loosened her shoulders and bent her knees and the pair circled one another within one of many dirt rings at the Dansdel Fight Club. An autumn breeze nipped over the treetops of the forest Concordia and swirled about Underwood, where it scratched at the youths’ bare hands.

“Alright,” Jake said, “try not to cross your feet. Yes, like that. Okay. I’m going to come at you with a basic swing. Are you ready?”

“I uh-think so,” Amari held the practice sword in front of her with both hands as if it were a ceremonial candle. Her attention wavered as her gaze shifted between him and her.

“Err, good.” Jake muttered. “Just use the block I showed you, okay? Here it-”

“Isn’t that Breaker?” Amari loosened her grip and the weapon ‘thunked’ against the ground, hilt still clasped in her hand.

“It doesn’t mat- wait, who?” Jake turned around in time to see a tall, broad shouldered man sling his opponent to the ground as effortlessly as lacing his boots. The felled man groaned and lay still. As the victor cracked his neck the sun caught the familiar Y-shaped scar beneath his left eye. Jake and Amari had met the man at the earlier that week, and shared a drink with him. He’d shown a strange interest in Amari, calling her a… what was it? Ar’Tuel.

“Are you alright?” The redheaded young woman cried. She dropped her practice sword in the dirt and rushed to the fallen man’s side. Jake sighed and shook his head, sliding his tonfa through its belt loop and following in her wake.

“Amari,” Joshua “Breaker” Cronen said in surprise. The martial artist tousled his close-cropped brown hair and looked past her. “And Jake. Fancy meeting you both here again.”

“I’m fine lass,” wheezed the man on the ground. “Just a little winded is all.” Amari breathed a sigh of relief and stood, dusting herself off and stepping back to Jake’s side.

“Hey, since you’re free,” Jake said as the other man walked away holding his ribs, “how about showing me a move or two?” Despite his reservations about the martial artist, the half elf could scarcely pass up an opportunity to learn from such an instructor.

“Sure,” Cronen grinned. He pointed at Jake’s hip. “Draw your weapon.” Jake put his right hand on the tonfa’s handle and drew the fighting stick across his body like a sword, as every teacher he’d ever had had shown him to do. “Wrong,” Josh interrupted. “Put it back.”

Jake’s brow furrowed, but he slid the stick back through its belt loop.

“Drawing your weapon is your first attack, and your first defense.” Cronen explained. “Practice pulling it straight out and up, with your left hand, and then pass it to your right.

“Like this?” Jake asked. He drew the tonfa forcefully, aiming the crosspiece at an imaginary foe’s jaw.

“Exactly,” Cronen said with a smile and a nod. “Now practice that. Fifty times today, and fifty times every day from now until it’s as easy and fluid as taking off your cap.”

“Fifty times?” Jake said incredulously. “That was a quick lesson. What will you be doing?”

“I thought I might have a word with your friend,” Breaker said, turning to Amari, who had been politely standing by. “How is Underwood liking you so far?”

"M-me?” Amari glanced up at Breaker, jumping slightly as he addressed her. Her hands reached awkwardly for her long, red tendrils as she began to tug on them. “It’s...it’s ok. I mean. Jake keeps trying to get me to learn to fight but no matter how hard I try…” She trailed off… no matter how hard she tried, she was completely inept at any sort of combat. It felt almost wrong to hold a weapon in her hands and despite her attempts to relay this to Jake, he insisted that she should protect herself. He was right, and she was doing her best but it just wasn’t good enough.

“I can’t seem to grasp it. I know it’s silly…” A forced laugh fell from Amari’s lips as she turned her brilliant golden and emerald eyes toward Jake, watching him intently practise. “But it almost hurts to hold such a thing… Jake says I need to familiarise myself with it moreso, but I find it ever so difficult.”

“Not everyone is meant to wield a sword,” Breaker mused, watching Jake practice over her shoulder. “But an Ar’Tuel such as you will have other talents worth honing.”

Amari felt… validated by Breakers words. He sounded almost amused, as though he knew something that was so evidently obvious, and she just didn’t get it. Still. Despite that… it was comforting to hear that maybe, just maybe she wasn’t completely inept.

“Jake says I need to defend myself.” Amari muttered, still attempting to rationalise things. “I do not know what I am beyond Ar’Tuel. You-” Amari paused as Breaker had taken a step closer. Did he? She wasn’t sure. He felt closer. “You…”

Yeh. He was closer, she could smell faint remnants of alcohol, and the sea, somehow. At least it reminded her of the sea. Despite only ever seeing it in pictures. “You seem to know much about me, but we never got the chance to talk. I do think it would be nice to do so. One question I have, is what other abilities do you believe one such as myself could possibly possess?”

“With a soul like yours, I believe the possibilities are endless,” he said, gazing at her but seeming to see inside her. “Have you noticed any powers manifesting already?”

Amari blinked, powers? She repeated her sentiment. “Powers? That goes entirely against the teaching of the Ethereal Sway! I was meant to go there when I turned 18, but on my birthday everything with Jake happened. Regardless... such things - that’s a little...preposterous.”

He continued to stare at her, that gaze burning into her. Dammit… why did it make her feel so...what was this? Awkward? Flushed? “I guess..” I glanced down at my hands. “I think I see my hands glowing sometimes, and it’s like animals understand me.”

Amari waved off her admission like it was nothing more than a passing thought. “Ahaha… not...not that I can talk to animals, just that they understood. There was this bear and he was so lovely and warm and we’d often take walks in the forest before Jake dragged me here…” Her voice trailed off as she remembered the feeling of being surrounded by all the forests.

Sure..this place was ok...but it was nothing like being surrounded by those trees, the babbling brooks and the gentle smell of fresh loamy earth.

“Ah. I am getting carried away with myself. I’m sorry. How are you Breaker?” Amari asked as she glanced up at him.

“I am well,” he smiled, “but busy. Being sheriff of this town keeps me fairly occupied. In fact I’m meant to meet with the mayor shortly.” He gave a little half bow. “If you want to investigate these… non-powers of yours, try taking a walk in the woods and just focusing on what you feel.” He glanced at Jake, who was still rigorously practicing his single technique. “It was good to see you again, Amari.”

Amari smiled up at him. “Thank you, and likewise. Talking to you. It feels calm. Familiar. You’ve set some thoughts of mine at ease so-” Amari paused to slightly bow her head. “So thank you.”

Breaker grinned and took a five-pointed metal star out of his pocket and pinned it on his shirt. “Just doing my duty,” he said with a nod, and turned to walk away.


Amari’s eyes lingered on the back of Breaker’s head as he turned from her. Just his duty? Was that it. A small frown plagued her lips. That was somewhat disappointing, but she couldn’t pinpoint why. Amari shook such thoughts from her head as she turned to Jake. He was breathing heavily and sweat dripped from his forehead to the dirt riddled floor. She reached into her pocket and pulled out a clean hankerchief as she approached him with a warm smile.

Jake…

He was always so familiar, so set on his goals. It was endearing to see.

“Here.” She reached out toward him and he paused. “Would you like to take a break? You look like you are having trouble.”

Jake finished the fiftieth repetition of the exercise Breaker had assigned him and took the proffered handkerchief gratefully.

“This is completely contrary to what I’ve been taught all my life,” he complained as he wiped his brow. “It’s so awkward, drawing the tonfa left-handed.”

“Then why bother?” The redhead asked, cocking her head to one side and toying with an errant strand of hair.

“Because he’s right,” Jake said grudgingly as he slammed his tonfa home on his hip. “Doing it this way is faster, and flows more naturally into fighting. Once I get good at this, it’ll make a big difference.” He offered the handkerchief back.

“You can hold onto that,” Amari said, wrinkling her nose. Jake shrugged and stuffed the square of fabric in his back pocket. “If Breaker was right about this, do you think he might be right about other things?”

“Like what?” Jake asked, scuffing the ground with the toe of his boot. “He certainly seems wise and well… confident enough. What did he tell you?”

“He said he thought I might have some sort of powers - which is ridiculous - but he also suggested I take a walk in the woods, which sounds like a fine idea. Will you come with me?”

“Of course,” Jake flipped his mop of blond hair off his forehead and took a step toward the treeline some hundred yards away, offering Amari his arm.

She seemed reluctant, but carefully reached out to Jake, her hands entwining around his upper arm. Together they strode away from the dusty rings where fighters practiced. They returned Amari’s practice sword to a small outbuilding full of weapon racks, its loose shingles flapping in the wind, and then continued on into the woods.

The breeze played in the trees and swayed through the long grasses, tickling their skin where it was bare and tugging at their clothing. Jake led the way along a narrow dirt trail bordered by thick loam and thick trunks. The sun filtered through the latticework of branches overhead, casting strange speckled shadows across the ground and the two youths.

“Well, this is rather nice,” Jake said as they strolled, “but was there any purpose to it? Are we looking for something?”

Amari seemed distracted. “Jake…” Amari mumbled, tightening her grip. “I’m flustered.” She mumbled under her breath. “It’s...difficult for me to explain but when I hold onto you, or you to me it’s like...a similar feeling I get when I see Breaker. What is that?” She shook her head and tried to answer his question. “I’m...not sure. He didn’t tell me.”

“Oh,” Jake said, and his feet stopped moving. “You feel the same way when you touch me as when you look at him?” The half elf didn’t know whether to be exhilarated or disappointed, so he settled for confused. “It’s not really for me to say what that is. I mean, are you attracted to him?”

“I-it’s not just you..anytime I touch someone, or have them touch me I get these hot flushes…”” Amari mumbled, “It’s worse with you, like this…” She paused and quickly added, “N-not that this is a bad thing! I Just…” She sighed, it was difficult for her to focus right now. Her frustrations unbeknownst to her, coming from devious sigils her brother placed on her in her youth. Ones intended to control and twist her into things that were better left unmentioned.

Amari jumped at the question. Attracted? What did Jake mean by that? “Huh? Do you mean, if I find him...pleasing to look at?” She turned her eyes toward the path ahead of them. “I...think so. He’s usually so clean cut. Well presented, even after fighting. It’s...admirable.”

“Oh,” Jake looked as though a foul smell had passed beneath his nose, despite the pleasant aromas of the forest. “He is rather annoyingly perfect, isn’t he? I suppose if you find that kind of thing admirable… it does sound like you’re attracted to him. But that doesn’t explain why you have the same feelings when you touch m-- anyone. I’m sorry for bringing it up, Amari… but don’t you think this could have something to do with what your brother did to you?”

Amari felt her heart sink, her arms loosened from Jakes arm before sliding away as she stood still and he continued forward a few steps only to turn back and give her a worried glance. Amari was silent. Why? Why did Jake have to bring that up? Amari shook her head, it was clearing already.

“Maybe it has something to do with you…” she mumbled.

“Amari, what-”

She didn’t let him finish, “It’s all ...worse….intensified with you! So maybe its YOU! Why try to bring up something I don’t..I don’t want to think about? I don’t want to...I don’t…” She crouched down to the dirt riddled path and clasped her hands over her head in an attempt to block out the sound. She forced her eyes shut. No. She didn’t want this. She begged for this to stop. This uneasy feeling.

Amari wasn’t ready to confront that sordid and horrifying past. Flashes of what he did danced across her mind, his false honeyed tones, the venomous glint in his eyes. Was that really true? Was Jake onto something.

“Dammit…” She whispered.

During her battle with herself, something around her responded. Small sprouts of greenery erupted from the ground where there was only dirt and pebble before. Then grass, even small yellow daffodils.

“Amari!”

She didn’t hear him, she chose not to. She pressed her hands tighter to the sides of her head. Go away… just go away...just go away…. the newly sprouted flora grew toward her, some of the sprouts slowly beginning to entangle her sandled shoes.

“Amari!” She heard his voice a second time, then felt the warmth of his hand around her wrist as she was pulled up and away. “Amari.” Jake pleaded. “Look.” Still holding tight to her wrist Jake pointed to the spot she had been sitting in.

A ring of grass, vines and flowers.

“What?”

“Amari… you did that. How did you do that?”

“I just… didn’t want to be around anything anymore…” I wrestled my hand away from his and approached the circle.

“Amari! Don’t, we don’t know what that could-”

“It’s ok…” Amari whispered, she wasn’t entirely sure why. But she felt it...she felt that it was ok, and that this was what Breaker meant. It was so obvious now, without the muffled feelings of heat and frustration from constantly clinging to Jake...it was so painfully obvious.

It was just a shame that whatever ‘that’ was….Amari hadn’t a clue on. “Joshua was right… “ Amari whispered, whispering Breakers name as her hands danced over the new saplings, they seemed to positively react to her touch, growing toward her hand as it shifted.

“I don’t know what this means…Jake?” Amari asked, looking up at him, eyes begging him for answers that he didn’t have.

“It means…” Jake’s brow furrowed as he thought furiously. “It means you’re special Amari. You can do something most others can’t. That’s a gift.”

Amari glanced down, “I don’t know...the church condemned such things. Maybe this is why my mother died when she gave birth to me...” She shook her head. “Do you...think Joshua knew about this?”

Jake shrugged. “I don’t know, honestly… he seems to know much more than he lets on, if you ask me. But your mother dying wasn’t your fault Amari… and there’s nothing wrong with a little magic.” He snapped his fingers and conjured a ball of fire in his hand. “I know the church in Salvar looks harshly on it, but you don’t need to worry about that here. People will accept you for who you are.”

She stood and dusted the dirt off her clothes. “I don’t care about that, I’m more worried about what you think of me.”

“What I think of you?” Jake asked. Women could be so bloody confusing. “I think you’re wonderful, Amari. That’s why I’ve done everything I have. Because you’re worth it.”

She stared at Jake a few moments, silent, and he wasn’t able to read the expression on her face. Finally she smiled at him and broached the small gap between them to grasp his hands in hers. “That means a lot to me Jake. I’ve been worried that I’ve been such a bother to you lately.”

“You’re not a bother,” Jake chuckled, tucking a red lock behind her ear. “Life’s been twice as fun since you’ve been around. Aside from the harrowing bits and everything. You know what I mean. I feel stronger around you. More focused.”

He felt her squeeze his hands tighter, “Sometimes you give me these looks and I think...I’ve done something wrong or you’re bothered by me. I’m relieved that is not the case.” She breathed a sigh of relief and leaned her face into his gesture. “This is all so new to me, and I’m glad I have people to help me. Like you...and now like Breaker.”

“Yes, Breaker…” Jake said, looking away suddenly and releasing her hands. “I’m sure he’ll be very helpful. Did he give you any other advice on what to do?”

She shook her head.

“Well I guess he’s a one and done sort of teacher,” Jake quipped. “Why don’t you see if you can make those trees grow some more?

Amari glanced toward a tree off the path, it was smaller, weaker than the rest and the roots had been uplifted from the ground. “I wouldn’t know where to start…” Despite her words, she wandered over to the tree and nestled herself against it. Jake watched as the tree didn’t exactly grow, but reacted positively to her presence.

“That’s good, Amari… just do what comes naturally.”

“Sit with me?” she asked, gesturing to the place beside her.

Jake stepped next to her and folded his legs, leaning his back against one of the uplifted roots. “I can’t do what you do.” He assured her. But it was still a pleasant moment of peace, and he took a deep breath, enjoying it.

Peace…

Amari took a deep breath, he was right. This was peaceful. “Near where you first took me…” Amari began as she closed her eyes. “Those forests always made me feel peaceful. I just thought that it was because it was away from people. Being around too many make me anxious. Afraid. I’m slowly getting over those things thanks to you...I just…” She allowed her hand to dance over the grass and took another deep breath again.

“What is it?” Jake said dreamily, gazing up at the treetops.

Amari kicked off her shoes, and removed the outer layer of her clothing, leaving behind the thin slip of a mangled dress. It felt better this way. Less restricting, and it felt. Amari tried to concentrate on the feeling, it was almost a buzzing inside of her. She didn’t hear Jake’s question, instead. She concentrated on that. Behind her closed lids there was a faint glow, amber...and it felt warm. If she just opened her eyes, she’d realise the source of that was her own body, but her lids felt heavy and she didn’t want to move. This was what she needed, not fighting, not defending herself with a weapon… but this
“This…” She whispered, turning and curling her body into the tree. “Feels like home.” IF she were let be, she’d have fallen asleep like that. A faintly glowing woman, barely dressed - nestled up against a tree along a dirt riddled path which just so happened to have a giant spot of grass in the center of it.

What a sight.

Jake smiled somewhat awkwardly, looking at the radiant young woman. “Good,” he said, and then hesitated as if about to say more, and then fell silent.

Amari wasn’t sure how much time had passed, but when she opened her eyes the sun had all but set, and it was beginning to get dark. There was a source of-

“Wait WHAT! WHY am I GLOWING!” Amari said, startled as she glanced down at herself, if she had the time, she’d have found it pleasing. But she was too busy being concerned with the fact that she was glowing. “Jake!? Jake!?” She called scrambling to her feet. Damnit...why was she covered in vines? When did the grass become so thick? As she tried to stand, Amari tripped and fell with a thud.

“I wasn’t sleeping,” Jake said as he stood up, eyes coming open. “Oh, Amari, are you okay? What’s happened?”

How was he not concerned? How was he not worried? She lay there, nestled against the greenery all tangled up in saplings, vines, and plantlife. “Please! Help!” She said, exasperated as she reached up to clasp his hand.

Jake pulled her up and with a little bit of effort, free from the entrapment she found herself in. Jake pulled her up and out, and into his arms as she stumbled forward. Her hands pressed against his chest.

“I uh…”

“Jake…” Amari mumbled.

“I see it was a fruitful endeavour.” A voice caused Amari to reel it in, and back away from Jake far enough that her back was pressed against the tree. “B-breaker!?” Amari asked. “How did you-”

He chuckled. “On patrol, seeing a glowing woman is something my job warrants me to investigate.” His eyes set on Amari. “I had a feeling it may have been you though.”

“Oh good,” Jake commented, “it’s you. Just out on patrol sheriff?”

“Like I said,” the broad shouldered man grinned “glowing people always merit investigation on my watch.” He cast a shrewd eye over Amari’s semi-clothed form. “You’re fine.” He told her. “You know, when my abilities first started to develop, I glowed too. I learned to control it, but it still happens once in awhile.”

“This...is normal?” Amari asked stepping away from the tree. “How do you know so much about me?” she asked.

“We may have known each other,” he said, “in another life, or on another plane of existence. It’s hard to say. My memories aren’t clear. But you are familiar to me in… many ways.”

Amari seemed hesitant, glancing sideward at Jake before commenting. “I cannot lie, and must say I feel the same of you.”

“Well this is just flaming lovely,” Jake muttered. He moved away, down the path. “I’ll see you back at the inn, Amari.”

Amari frowned, “Jake - wait! What did…” her words faltered, as they fell on deaf ears.

“Let him go,” Breaker said easily. “We have much to discuss, in any case.”

Jake trudged out of earshot before they could say anymore lovey-dovey things to each other. He supposed he knew this might happen eventually, but it seemed so sudden. Anyway, Amari had never looked at him the way his friendly neighbourhood serving girls did. And how could you be with a woman who didn’t give you the smouldering eyes? Even so, Jake’s chest burned as he accelerated from a walk to a run, thundering down the path with his tonfa swinging on his hip.

He exploded out of the woods and raced back to the Dansdel training grounds and stopped, breathing heavily. He took Amari’s handkerchief out of his back pocket and wiped his brow, and then threw the token in the dirt. He didn’t fully understand the emotion rising inside him, or maybe he didn’t want to.

“You look like a volcano fit to rupture,” commented a tall youth around Jake’s age. He walked up with two cronies at his elbows. All three carried wooden staves and wore practice woolens and a sheen of sweat. They’d been working hard.

“And you look like a skinny fat bastard I’m about to beat half to death.” Jake growled.

The tall youth’s face twisted and he raised his staff.

Jake stepped forward and drew his tonfa as Breaker had shown him, using both hands to drive the butt upward. It smashed into his enemy’s nose with a sickening smack.

“Get ‘im!” The tall whimsy whimpered as he sat down hard, dropping his staff to cradle his nose as it ran crimson. His two friends came around him like an eagle’s wings, wielding their weapons.

Jake swung at one and thrust at the other. He kept his feet moving and his eyes wavering. For what felt like an age he managed to fend them both off, and then something snaked between his ankles and tripped him up. It was the downed fighter’s staff; he’d stopped holding his nose and found his courage. His friends beat Jake mercilessly as he fell, curling into a ball to avoid the worst of the damage.

“You’re right….” Amari said, watching as he broke into a run. Didn’t Jake say that he wasn’t annoyed or upset with her? Amari had been so incredibly happy knowing that...knowing that Jake was enjoying her company as much as she was enjoying his. She liked being around him, she felt safe and content - but he always did this. He got moody with her, he’d shrug her off and he’d wander off… or in this case...run off. Amari told herself she’d have to sit down with Jake and discuss this later. He was giving her mixed signals and it bothered her. Just what was she doing wrong? For now...

“Joshua..” Amari began, glancing at the ground around her, “It’s like - all this nature. It’s attracted to me, I suppose I could say the same with animals. You recall the bear?”

“I do.” Breaker said with a chuckle as he approached Amari, pausing to pluck a flower from the ground. “made friends with it?” he jested as he deftly placed it i behind her ear.

“yY yeh. What did you want to talk about?” Amari asked. Flushed, his action, whilst kind seemed to fluster her. She had to crane her neck up to see him. Gosh.. He still smelt like the ocean.

“You,” Breaker said, a twinkle in his eye. He gestured for her to walk with him and led the way down the trail in Jake’s wake. “You seem happy enough, but I know you have great pain… I can see it etched on your skin, your very soul. I’d like to find a way to help you with that, if I may. But also… I see great potential with that. If you’re interested… I could train you. Not like Jake. I’d teach you to be a stronger version of what you already are.”

“I'd love that.” Amari commented, stepping closer toward him and grabbing his arm. Now she Wasn't glowing the cold nipped at her and formed goosebumps. She visibly shivered, not just from the cold but the bitter memories. “I've..dealt with difficult things...I think its almost what triggered what happened...Jake mentioned my brother and…” Amari shook her head. The way she acted...was that why Jake was mad at her? She had to get stronger, that way she wouldn’t annoy him by being so dependent on him. “Yes please I would love your help.” She reiterated as she tightened her grip. “where would we start?”

“Let’s head back to Underwood,” he suggested, “these woods can be dangerous at night. And… there’s something I’d like to show you.”

Amari nodded. “I don’t feel unsafe here though but…” Underwood was where Jake would have gone back to. “I trust you.” Amari said.

“Good,” Josh smiled, “I won’t let you down.” He led the way back along the path. As they neared the treeline and the Dansdel grounds beyond, the sounds of shouting reached their ears. “Hurry,” Josh said suddenly, increasing his pace. They broke through the treeline in time to see three youths standing over a fourth, mercilessly beating him with staves.

“Hey!” Breaker yelled, and his voice struck the young men like a thunderbolt. They dropped their weapons and scattered as Josh and Amari raced to the fallen man’s side.

“Oh, thanks for stopping by.” Jake said ruefully as he sat up, holding his ribs and spitting out blood.

Amari dropped to her knees. “Jake!” she carefully picked him up and set his head in her lap. “Jake…I’m sorry this is my fault.” Amari felt so guilty, if he hadn’t run off, if she hadn’t said whatever it was she had said to piss him off...Amari’s grip on him tightened, and that same strange glow came from her palms and soaked into Jakes body. His wounds began to dissipate, at least the smaller ones. The cuts and bruises. Amari flinched, only slightly as her breath stilled. She felt it. She felt his pain. The pain of all the wounds inflicted on him, for a moment she was worried that they’d be visible on her, but upon further inspection her body was clear.

“I uh…” She wasn’t sure what to do, so, as always, she looked up at Joshua. “Joshua??”

“This is not your fault,” Josh said, kneeling next to her, “but it does seem you’ve uncovered another talent. You’re a healer, Amari.”

“Whoa,” Jake breathed, laying back down, “I feel better but… it’s like you sucked all the energy out of me.”

“She likely had to use some of your own life force to heal you,” Josh said, “you’ll need to get to bed and rest.” He offered the half elf a hand and pulled him to his feet. Jake wobbled slightly but nodded.

“Thanks, Amari… that was pretty impressive.” Jake said. “Maybe you could become one of the Ai’Brone monks or something.” He rubbed his ribs where the bruises had receded so rapidly. “I’m going to follow Breaker’s advice. I’ll see you at the inn.” He picked up his tonfa from where it had fallen nearby and staggered off like a walking corpse.

“Well,” Josh said as Jake faded into the darkness, “that was impressive. Are you alright, Amari?”

Amari was still, her jaw clenched and she was shaking. She looked to be in pain. “Y-yeh...I...that hurt…”

“Interesting,” Josh mused, “you may have taken the pain of his injuries upon yourself.” He took her hand and helped her to her feet. “Do you need some rest as well? The thing I wanted to show you can wait.”

Amari shook her head, “No. I’m ok.” She was a little shaky to stand on her feet, and her face was flushed but she was determined. “I want to see now.”

“Well then,” Breaker smiled, “follow me.” Like a pair of moonshadows they flitted through the night, between buildings and over winter walkways and past homes with smoke billowing from chimneys. “I don’t spend much time here,” Josh explained as they rounded a corner and approached a squat building with a glass roof. “But it is one of Underwood’s many gems. I think you’ll like it.”

As they entered the greenhouse the smell of vibrant plant life enveloped them. Plants of all origins and colors grew from planter boxes filled with soil. Some sat on the ground, while others covered tables in long, haphazard rows. A lone lantern flickered at the back of the building, and the shape of a slight woman materialized as she approached from its radiance.

“Josh, is that you?” She called.

“Hello Helen,” Breaker smiled. “I figured you’d be burning the midnight oil. I brought a new friend. This is Amari. Amari, meet Helen, the greenhouse keeper.”

Amari stepped away from Breaker and approached the woman, offering her a small curtsey. It was clear she still clung to her noble upbringing and mannerisms. “It is a pleasure, Helen.” She said before lifting her head and turning her attention to the nearest planter box. She reached out to it and the lilac coloured flowers turned toward her. Amari quickly pulled her hand away and kept it hard to her sides biting her lower lip.

“Amari has something of a talent when it comes to plant life, and natural things.” Breaker smiled, giving her an encouraging nod. “Could you use an extra pair of hands around here, Helen? Someone to share some of your knowledge with?”

“Certainly,” the brunette woman replied kindly. She appeared fascinated by the way the flowers had reacted to Amari. “How did you do that?” She inquired.

“I….don’t….know I just....” Amari reached out to the flowers again and gently grazed one. The specific one she touched flourished, growing larger and its petals bloomed out wide. Amari went to pull her hand away but Joshua stepped in beside her and gently kept her hand there. “I have...vague memories doing similar things as a child but I was beaten for it. Magic is not allowed where I am from. I am a child of sin and ill fortune so…” She trailed off.

“Well, perhaps you can bring some good fortune to Underwood. Follow me.” Helen led them both to the rear of the building where she’d been working. The lantern there illuminated a trio of wilting cactus plants in pots. “These cacti are used to create medicines that treat congestion and fever. With winter approaching, we will be in great need of them soon. But they are dying… no matter what I try, I can’t reproduce the conditions they’re used to growing in. Please… if you would.”

Amari seemed reluctant, she turned to Joshua with a look of concern on her face. “I...can try, but - I bring death…” She muttered. Despite her words she sounded as though she no longer firmly believed them. She was always told that in the past. She was told by her father, her brother… the neighbourhood Being careful not to prick herself on the cactai she pressed her hands into the dirt. She exhaled slowly and shut her eyes. For a few minutes nothing happened. Then...her hands began to glow again and the once limp and dying flora sprang to newfound life. Amari began to feel a little drained, she opened her eyes and seeing that she was succeeding she wasn’t sure if she should continue. Her legs buckled but she refused to back away.

“I-is that working?” She asked, unsure of what her own eyes were showing her. How could she, she of all people manage to do something like this?

“It’s more than working,” Helen exclaimed. She plucked a tiny silver sickle from the table and took a small cutting from the plant. “Minutes ago, this cactus was on the brink of death. Now it appears to be… flourishing.” She smiled at Amari.

As Helen took cuttings from the Cactai, they almost instantly began to regenerate. Amari was happy that it was working, but the longer she left her hands there, the more drained she felt. She had paled considerably and her own skin prickled with a strange electric energy.

“That might be enough for now,” Josh said gently, “you don’t want to overtax yourself.” She felt his hands on her shoulders and Amari carefully pulled away. He was right… still…

She glanced up at Helen, the golden ring and flecks in her eyes giving off a faint glimmer, her entire body radiated a similar glow and prickled with a strange sensation. “I’m happy I could help.” Amari said as she clasped a hand over her chest to steady her breathing in a way that wouldn’t alert the woman to how out of breath she was. “I am not sure how long I will be residing here for, as I am just a guest of a dear friend of mine - but if you wish for me to help you in the future. Please let me know.”

“That would be wonderful,” Helen said, “I can think of a half dozen projects that would benefit from your skill. But for now, I think I will lock up for the night. Please come by any time, I’m usually here.”

Amari nodded, and they said their goodbyes before Joshua lead her out of the greenhouse. “Is that what you wanted to show me? She asked as they stepped out into the cool air again. She bristled and rubbed her hands together. “This...residual effect…” She said as she glanced down at her dimly lit hands before holding them out to him. “It feels strange, it tingles almost - is it just me?”

“From what I can tell, it seems almost like a side effect of using your powers,” Josh said. “You may learn to control it in time. And yes… I wanted to show you the greenhouse. I wanted you to have something that appeals to you as much as the Dansdel does to Jake.”

Amari nodded. “I admit… that place makes me feel very uncomfortable, so does the fighting and his insisting me on fighting and training to fight and I just…” Amari sighed. “I can’t...I am trying. I really am, but I think I’m frustrating him. Ah… I don’t mean to speak ill of him. Joshua… thank you for showing me this place.”

“You’re very welcome,” he said. “Don’t be too hard on Jake. He just wants you to be safe, and to him safety lies in a sword. If he continues learning from me, I’m sure his perspective will change.”

Amari nodded, a look of concern etched on her features. “Yeh...I think I need to go have a talk with him when I get back to the hotel. If he’s not asleep already. I should go do that...unless there was anything else you wanted to discuss?” she asked, “You did say there was much to talk about?”

“There will be plenty of time for that,” Breaker said firmly, “you need your rest. Let me walk you to your inn.”

Amari smiled and coiled her hand around his arm. “I was just about to ask if you could do such a thing…” She said. The two walked to the inn and said their goodbyes. As breaker walked away, Amari watched until he turned a corner and away from view before she stepped inside and headed to Jakes room. She knocked softly at his door. “Jake...are you awake?”

Jake awakened to a tentative knock on the door. He’d fallen into a light doze the moment he’d lain down on his bed, not even having time to take his boots off. He rose groggily, rubbing sleep from his eyes and jamming his cloth cap overtop of unruly blond locks. He knew it was Amari at the door - he recognized her knock - and so he hastened to the door and opened it.

Amari stood in the hall, semi breathless with her face flushed. Jake could not read the look in her eyes, but she seemed quite exhausted.

“Come in,” he said, standing aside and holding the door for her.

Amari entered quietly and headed toward his bed, sitting herself down. “Jake… are you ok?” She asked concerned.

“I’m alright,” the half elf said around a grimace. “Those pansies who beat me up couldn’t swing hard enough to thresh wheat.” He joked. “And you healed the worst of it.” He trudged to the bed and sat beside her. “Are you okay? You seem… I don’t know.”

“Y-yeh I’m fine.” She quickly interjected with a forced laugh and a wave of her hand. “Nothing to worry or concern yourself about.”

“Well I’m glad,” Jake said. “What did you and Breaker get up to?”

Amari averted her gaze, “We… “ She paused. “We went to this greenhouse and he showed me some of the flowers there. He said he thought it’d be nice to show me a place I’d enjoy as much as you enjoy practising your swordsmanship.” She turned her gaze back to Jake. “He was right, it’s wonderful.”

“I wonder if he ever does anything that isn’t wonderful.” Jake muttered, and then caught himself and smiled. “It’s good you found something you like in this town. Was there anything else? I really am tired, getting beaten up and healed took about as much out of me as portalling to Salvar and back.”

Amari bit her lower lip. She looked as though she wanted to say more, but instead she offered him her usual bright smile. “Mm no, I just wanted to make sure you were alright. If you are tired I will leave you be.” She paused. “Hey...Jake, what are you doing tomorrow?”

“Aside from practicing sheathing and unsheathing my tonfa fifty times… no real plans.” Jake said with a grin. “Why?”

“No real reason...I don’t want to get in the way of your training, so can I watch you practise?” She stood and crossed her arms over her flimsy underdress. “I promise I won’t get in the way.”

“Of course,” Jake said, standing and touching her shoulder gently. “You’re never in the way.”

She reached out to him and squeezed his arm, she still seemed a little breathless. “Thank you. I will see you tomorrow Jake.” And with that she let him go and left to go to her own room.

Jake shut the door slowly behind her, shaking his head as he returned to bed. Amari certainly did ask some strange questions, but he supposed it had to do with being uprooted from her life in Salvar. She was still struggling to put down roots, so it was understandable she’d need a little extra reassurance. Remembering to take his boots off this time, Jake climbed beneath the covers and soon fell fast asleep.

It had been a year since her upheaval from her home in Salvar. Amari felt… homesick. It was her birthday, but it was never really celebrated. So Amari chose to stay silent on the matter, instead - she’d focus on the person who took her away from it all. Jake. Amari was usually awake before him, and was already downstairs and sitting at a table nursing a cup of tea, staring intently at the empty seat before her. His food was getting cold… she had gotten him a strong black coffee and a stack of fatty sausages and toast. She’d seen him eat the meal a few times and hoped that he liked it. Still… he wasn’t awake yet… Did she miss him? Surely not.

Amari fidgeted in her chair. This wasn’t exactly going according to plan. After several minutes, she saw a sleepy and disheveled Jake descend the stairs she smiled and waved him over. He groaned as he approached.

“You’re always so chipper in the mornings.”

“I’m used to waking up early. Look.” Amari gestured toward the spread before them. “I made sure to get you a nice meal. This time you can’t skip breakfast.”

“Thanks,” Jake said with a slightly sheepish grin. “One of these days, I’ll wake up first and repay the favor.” He sat down and took a sip of coffee, and then dug into the food heartily. Amari was glad that he didn’t mind that it had started to turn cold. She waited for him to finish, partly out of politeness and partly.. Because she didn’t want food splayed across her face.

When he was done she cleared her throat. “So off to the training grounds then?” she asked. “Oh...did you have my handkerchief? I’ll wash it later.”

“Oh, I uh…” Jake’s face fell. “I’m sorry, I uh, lost it when those goons attacked me. I’ll buy you a new one today, you can pick it out at the seamstress’ shop.”

“I didn’t see it when we found you…” Amari said, concerned. “I didn’t realize they hurt you that badly. It’s just a piece of cloth, its nothing. It’s fine. Really.” She held out her arm to him, “Will you escort me there?”

It wasn’t fine… it wasn’t exactly bad, but it wasn’t fine. It was the one thing she had from her mother, sure it was old, but it was useful and aside from her locket with her family crest on it - it was the only thing from her former life she had.

Jake gently took her arm and they started to head toward the ring. “You’re going to practise what Joshua showed you today, right?” Amari asked, breaking the silence. “Did he teach you anything else?”

“Not yet,” Jake said, sounding somewhat disappointed. “He said until I can properly draw and sheathe my weapon, there’s not much he can teach me about fighting with it.”

Amari jostled his arm to lighten his spirits. “Hey now. From what I saw you were doing really well. How about if you do a really good job today I’ll try to cook you a home cooked meal. Whatever you want.” She let go of his arm and stood in front of him. “But you have to promise me, that you’ll work extra hard today. Okay?”

“Okay,” Jake said quizzically, looking at her from the corner of his eye. “If it means that much to you, I’ll train extra hard. You’re a great cook from what I remember, the last time I had one of your meals was… wait a moment…” his eyes darted to and fro and his lips moved as though counting silently. “Amari, is today your birthday?”

Crap

“Hey! I’ve cooked for you back in Akashima.” Amari retorted, changing the subject. “I didn’t have much to work with, but give me some credit.” She huffed.

“Amari..” Jake pressed as he repeated his question. “Is today your birthday.”

She sighed, there was no use winning this. “Yes. It is. I didn’t want to make it a big deal. I just wanted to make sure you were doing ok and spend some time with you.”

“That’s what we’ll do, then.” Jake said, agreeing far too easily. “We’ll just spend some time together. Whatever you’d like to do.”

He was making this hard. Amari wasn’t good with attention on herself. He already had his tonfa and they were already en route to the ring. “You should train.” She insisted, trying to cater to his desire to become stronger. “Joshua said you had to. Right? You shouldn’t skip a day for me, I’d feel bad. We can do something after that?” Amari asked.

“Sounds fine to me.” Jake gave her arm a squeeze. “So long as you’re happy.”

Jake appeared to be in better spirits. Amari just had to make sure he didn’t get moody on her again. Then, she could get to the bottom of what she was doing wrong. She smiled as she coiled her arm around his and let her hand wrap around his. She ignored the heated feeling that burned inside her for the time being. “It would make me happy.” She said as they continued to the ring.

While Amari made her way to the stands constructed for spectators, Jake took up a position in the center of one of the empty dirt rings. He squared his stance and bent his knees and pulled his tonfa swiftly from its belt loop. He went through a few more rehearsed maneuvers and the slid the weapon back home, trying to be as smooth as possible in finding the loop. He repeated the process again and again, losing count of the repetitions as sweat beaded on his temples.

If bloody Breaker had shown me a few more things, I probably could have beaten those three last night. He thought ruefully. He knew he should have been angry with the culprits, but instead, each time he drew his tonfa he imagined smashing the handle into Breaker’s grinning face. The man was altogether too handsome - he could use a broken nose and a chipped tooth or two.

“That must be more than fifty,” a familiar voice interrupted, and a firm hand caught the end of Jake’s fighting stick. The half elf’s eyes bulged. Somehow, Cronen had snuck up on him while he was practicing.

“I figured a few extras couldn’t hurt,” Jake said defensively. “Besides, it’s not like I’ve got anything else to practice.” Only then did he realize that Cronen carried a wooden practice sword.

“Well then, this should be a good time for another lesson.” Breaker said. He raised his weapon into a casual one-handed high guard and gave Jake a curt nod. “Attack me.”

Jake bit his lip and took a step backward. Attacking Joshua Cronen seemed a bit like petting a porcupine - there was simply no way to do it that didn’t guarantee injury. The half elf took a breath and then hop-stepped forward. He faked a thrust and then pivoted and put all of his weight behind a solid swing aimed at Breaker’s neck.

The martial artist moved as if to parry, but then ducked at the last moment and stepped inside the arc of the swing. He caught Jake’s wrist with his free hand and placed his wooden blade gently along the half elf’s neck.

“That was a decent feint,” he said, “but you should never fully commit to a first attack, or even a second. A faster or cleverer opponent will use that against you every time.”

“Right.” Jake muttered. He took a few steps back and then attacked again. They crossed sticks, circling swiftly enough to stir up a cloud of dust. Jake knew that Breaker was going easy on him, but the bastard was still always a half step ahead. By the time five minutes had passed Jake was wheezing, and needed to lean on his tonfa for support. Josh, it appeared, had not broken a sweat.

“Good work,” the martial artist said kindly, clapping Jake on the shoulder. “Your fundamentals are solid, it’s just a matter of putting them together in more unique ways, and incorporating more advanced techniques. I can teach you all of that later. For now, keep practicing your draws and basic defenses. I’ll see you here again tomorrow.”

“Er, okay. Thanks!” Jake called as Josh turned toward the stands, making his way toward Amari. Jake made an effort to push the jealous thoughts out of his head and went back to rehearsing his technique. If he practiced hard enough, he might just get to smash Breaker in the face one of these days.

Amar was never really one to enjoy such a scene as this. She didn’t enjoy fighting, she didn’t like being around it and the entire place made her feel uncomfortable. Still, she wanted to support Jake. She wanted to show him that she was there for him, just as much as he was there for here. It wouldn’t have been any more than half an hour before she was approached by a woman who couldn’t be any more older than her.

“Mind if I sit?” Amari shook her head and patted the bench beside her. “No, please. It is no trouble.”

The girl sat down and patted down her emerald dress. “My name is Isabelle, what’s yours?”

“Amari.” She said as she turned toward her new companion. The girl had large and bright blue eyes and long blonde hair that framed her cherub face in wispy curls. Amari hadn’t really spoken to anyone else since coming here, especially another girl. She only ever conversed with Jake or Joshua. She felt at a loss. What was she supposed to say in this situation?

It seemed that Isabelle didn’t have the same issue. “So… I’ve seen you around lately. You’re new here right? Just passing through?”

“I’m not sure to be honest.” Amari turned her attention back to Jake. “I’m here with a friend, so I suppose its up to him.”

“Friend?” She asked, her voice curious. “So he’s your friend. Right?”

Amari nodded, a little confused at the question. “Y-yeh. We’re friends.” Amari thought it a little silly, didn’t she just say that? Why was this girl interested in who Amari was friends with?

“So, would you want to be my friend, the same way you are friends with him?” Isabelle asked.

Gosh she said the word friend a lot. “I guess so…” Amari said, feeling nervous at the prospect. “A-although in all honesty. I am not used to such a thing so I do apologise if I commit any faux paux.”

Isabelle laughed as she scooched closer to Amari. “You’re so lovely how can you not have so many friends? You can totally tell you aren’t from here. You have an odd accent. So, that blonde boy. What does he like?”

“Huh?”

“What does he like? What does he do? What’s his name?”

Amari didn’t understand the questions. “His name is Jake. He trains here every day. Sometimes for an hour, sometimes for two or three. Afterwards he usually goes to the local bar and has a few ales. He likes taking walks in the forest too…” Amari thought, trying to think of what else he liked. “He enjoys home cooking...and horses and-”

“Oh! Look at the time.” Isabelle said as she quickly stood up. “I need to go, we should talk again soon Amari.” She gave Amari a friendly wave before heading off. Leaving Amari very , very confused. Just what was all that about? Did Amari just make a friend?

She shifted her bi coloured gaze toward the circle, to see Joshua talking with Jake...they must have been fighting and Amari had missed it. Amari felt a pang of guilt. She promised Jake she’d keep watch on him and she missed an entire fight. Still… Jake shifted back into his practise stance as Joshua turned away and headed toward the stands. Amari kept her eyes on Jake, trying to find any signs of unease. It was too hard to see from this far away, but he looked like he was ok.

“Miss Amari, you’re a welcomed sight in the stands today.”

Amari jumped. “G-gah!” She held her hand over her chest. “Joshua...you scared me, I didn’t even see or hear you approach. Did you just puff in from thin air?” she asked with a small laugh.
“I came here today to keep an eye on Jake, considering he was so out of sorts yesterday.”

“My apologies for startling you,” Breaker chuckled, “you’re a good friend. Jake is lucky to have you. But don’t forget to see to your own needs and desires. I’m sure Helen would love some help at the greenhouse, if you’re up for it.”

Amari glanced down at Jake. “I would go now but...I’m not sure how much longer he is going to train for. We had made plans afterward, and I do not wish to change them on him.” Amari gave Joshua a smile. “I’m not exactly used to catering to my own needs, as such - I don’t really have any.” Amari had to admit the idea of visiting the greenhouse again was far more appealing than sitting around here for another hour or so, but she was cautious. She promised Jake a home cooked meal after all.

Breaker shrugged. “It’s up to you, but I’m sure Jake would want you to take care of yourself. I just stopped by to say hello.”

Amari pursed her lips. “He did tell me I should do what I wanted today…” Amari stood and dusted herself off. “If we aren’t more than an hour, I think it should be fine.” Amari paused, hearing him say that he came here, specifically just to say hello. She felt her breath catch, but quickly shook her head. “Ah… ahaha.. Thank you. I really appreciate the sentiment. It means a lot.”

Amari glanced down at Jake one more time, he was completely focused on his training.

“I want to try and help Helen again.” Amari said as she turned back to Breaker. She’d only be gone a little while, and she enjoyed the feeling of helping others and being of use. “Are you heading there now? I uh..I don’t think I could find my way by myself. I could make it up to you sometime?” Amari offered.

“I’d be happy to walk you there,” Josh chuckled, “and your company is the only reward I require.”

He held out his arm to Amari and she had to keep her face to the floor, red from embarrassment at the compliment. “That’s kind of you.” she managed to muster. As they made their way to the greenhouse Breaker made sure to point out landmarks to Amari so she could find it easier next time.

“Ah! Welcome back.” Helen greeted the two as they arrived. “Amari, Joshua. It’s so lovely to see you two again.”

Amari took a deep breath, already feeling at peace. “I wanted to see if you had anything else I could help you with today.”

“Yes, if you don’t mind, I have some other plants that aren’t doing too well...I didn’t want to ask you last night as you seemed rather...tired.”

Amari felt a rush of energy and...contentment as she followed Helen along the rows of different flora. Yes, this was what she wanted to do.

Jake finished his training and slammed his tonfa into its belt loop one final time. He was finally getting the hang of the technique Breaker had showed him, beginning to feel fluid in using it. He could not wait to see what tricks and tips the martial artist would have for him next. Wiping his brow with a sifan sleeve, Jake scanned the stands in search of Amari and Josh.

They were gone.

Bloody predictable, he thought, turning sharply on his heel and striding away toward the town proper. Oh well. Wherever she is, I hope Amari’s having a good birthday. We’ll meet up later, I’m sure. In the meantime… Jake threaded his way through the shops and stalls that made up Underwood’s marketplace. He paused to purchase and eat a honeyed scone from a bakery, and shared a few words with some guardsmen he knew from the Dansdel. After wiping the crumbs from his fingers and licking his lips, he continued along his way until he arrived at the seamstress’ shop.

A bell jingled overhead as he pushed through the light swinging door. Bolts of fabric of all sorts and colors hung from the walls, and rows of mannequins displayed male and female clothing. A woman at the back of the room left off working a footpedal sewing machine and came forward to greet her customer with a smile.

“We don’t get many young men in here,” she said, “let me guess… you’re after a gift for a special friend?”

“Is it that obvious?” Jake said in surprise. His face flushed and he looked away. “Well uh, yeah. I lost her handkerchief and I wanted to buy a replacement.”

“I see,” the woman adjusted her elegantly piled blonde hair and clicked her tongue. “A woman’s handkerchief is not so easily replaced, you know. They often have sentimental value.”

“Great,” Jake groaned, “any idea how I can make it up to her?”

“Well, I’d suggest you go with one of our top-line sifan kerchiefs. I see you already understand the importance of a strong cloth,” she said, noting the cut of his shirt. “One of these would do nicely,” she said, indicating a table covered in folded handkerchiefs. A light violet one caught Jake’s eye, and he pointed to it.

“How about this?” He asked, “I think she might like that color.”

“An excellent choice,” the shopkeeper replied, “but if you truly want to personalize it, I would suggest some embroidery. I can have it done for you within a few hours,” she added, seeing his hesitation. “And the added cost is not so significant. What would you like it to say?”

“I dunno,” Jake flushed as he thought about what he might like it to say. “Maybe just… ‘For Amari, From Jake.’ Do you think that would be good?”

“I’m sure your friend will love it.” The woman picked up the folded violet kerchief and carried it to the back of the shop. “Come back in a few hours,” she called, “I’ll have it ready for you.”

Jake exited the shop feeling a little better about himself. Now, to find Amari. He reasoned. Wherever she had gone, she’d likely be looking for him at the Dansdel soon, so that was where he’d-

“Jake, right?” A buxom blonde said as she tapped him on the shoulder. “I’m Isabelle, a friend of Amari’s.” She smiled sweetly at him. “She told me to tell you that she’d catch up with you later.” Isabelle crossed her arms quite deliberately cross her chest. “She went off somewhere with Joshua.” She sighed. “That man...he sure knows how to woo the more easily swayed women, huh?”

Since when does Amari have other friends? Jake wondered. Wouldn’t she have told him about this blonde? Still, the young woman did seem to have an awful lot of information about her.

“Er, nice to meet you Isabelle,” Jake said, sticking out his hand to shake. “Yeah, I guess Breaker is annoyingly good at most things. Thanks for letting me know.”

She clasped both her hands over his and stepped closer. “If you ask me, I think he’s a little too cocky for my liking - Amari said something about meeting up at a pub later, should we head there now? I’ll grab you a nice ale?” Isabelle let go and brushed errant strands of hair away from her face.

Jake caught himself grinning at Isabelle’s opinion of Cronen. Nice to know not all women fall under his spell.

“She did?” Jake said. What had happened to the promise of a home cooked meal? Maybe the Salvic woman had changed her mind. “Which pub? I suppose I could go for an ale.” His mouth was rather dry from the scone, after all.

“There is one around the corner nearby!” Isabelle said as she grabbed tight hold of his arm, stepping in close. “Let’s go shall we, Amari’s told me so much about you. About how you are Such. Good. Friends….”

“She has?” Jake said, surprised. “How did the two of you meet?” Arm in arm, the blond and the blonde walked around the corner to the pub.

“We met watching you fight some weeks ago.” Isabelle responded thoughtfully. “I think...yes...it was originally in passing, I honestly thought she was Joshua’s escort, with the way they were acting. Well...oh gosh this is candid of me to say. It wasn’t like they were publicly displaying any sort of affection, just coming around from dark corners. All flushed and sweaty? Makes one think. At first… I was annoyed with her, because I see how hard you work - but hearing you are just friends...it’s nice to know nothing nefarious is going on.” Isabelle said.The blonde woman had her sights on Jake, and she would do what she could to have him.

How long had it been? Amari felt dizzy. Again, she had aided Helen in fixing plants. This time some strange and rare ice flower from the northern Slavic regions. She wiped the sweat from her brow.

“I...I need to go now.” Amari said as she stood straight with a deep breath. “This is really wearing me out, I think I may need a break for a day or two.”

Helen beamed at her and offered her a cloth from her front pocket with a flourish she began to dab at Amari’s forehead. “Don’t stress Amari, you are a wonderful delight to have. Do not feel obliged to help whenever you visit. You can visit and rest here, or enjoy the scenery whenever you like. Here…”

She rummaged in her pocket before pulling out a small golden key. “I had this made for you. So you and Joshua could come here whenever you like.” Amari blinked. “I...I can’t ask for this!”

“You didn’t.” Helen said simply. “Now, go get some rest.” Helen threw a concerend look to Joshua, “She looks a little wobbly on her feet. You should escort her till she regains some of her strength back. It’s humid in here, the poor dear could use a drink.

Amari nodded. Yes… a cool drink… that sounded nice…but Jake… She had a promise to keep.

“Joshua? I need to go to the market…” Amari stepped forward but lost her footing.

Josh caught her beneath the arms and held her firmly upright. “I don’t think you’re in any condition to go shopping,” he said, hazel eyes rich with concern. “Why don’t we find someplace you can relax? I’ll buy you that drink, and maybe something to eat.”

Amari grimaced and nodded. “O-only for a bit… I have a promise to keep.” She let Joshua lead the way to a small place which she wrinkled her nose at. “Isn’t this a pub?” Amari didn’t like the sound of that… there were usually unsavoury types in such places.

“I’m the Sheriff, nothing will happen to you when I’m here.”

Amari nodded, still feeling quite breathless. She lifted one hand up to her face and felt the damp remnants of sweat. “I need to get stronger...so that this doesn’t exhaust me as much as it does...I want to learn to heal better too, in case Jake gets hurt in a fight.:

“Jake is certainly fortunate to have you as a friend,” Breaker smiled, “but be careful not to overdo it. The pain you feel is likely your body’s way of telling you to slow down.”

“You’re right…” Amari said as they entered and found a nearby table to sit down. She felt her cheeks redden at his compliment, she glanced up at him. His warm eyes met with hers and she shifted uncomfortably. His dark and thick hair had been brushed up and out of his face, revealing angular cheekbones, his neck was slender and his shoulders broad. His lips turned up into a sideward smirk. “What can I get you to drink?” He asked.

“Pick for me.” Amari quickly said as she averted her gaze and instead focused on the wooden grain of the table. This might have been nice...if it was any other day, but she had a nagging feeling in the back of her mind. She wanted to make a meal for Jake and had to get to the markets before they closed.

Breaker signalled a server, a young mousy woman, who hurried over and gave a quick curtsy.

“What can I get for ya, sheriff?” She asked.

“A cranberry cocktail for the lady, some fried bread for us to share, and I think you know what I want to drink.”

“Top shelf scotch,” the mousy girl said with a smile. “Yurik’s Firewhisky, unless I remember wrong.”

“You remember right.” Josh grinned, and the server hurried away.

“Hey...Joshua…” Amari asked as she cleared her throat. “Do you...enjoy your time with me?” She asked as she lifted her eyes back up to meet his. “I mean, I know you enjoy helping others - but in a sense other than that? Because I was wondering if some time you’d like to go out?” She paused, trying to think of a place the two of them would enjoy. “Maybe the forest, with a glass of that firewhisky?”

“I would like that very much,” Josh said warmly. “I feel I know you, and yet… many things are a mystery about you, in this life. I should like to learn more.”

Amari felt a wave of relief wash over her. “You and I both, Joshua. I look forward to - ah… thank you.” She picked up her drink and rose it to him in sign of a toast. “To past lives reconnecting?”

“To Amari, on her birthday.” Josh said with a wink, and sipped his scotch.

Isabelle didn’t just buy Jake an ale, she bought him several, and by the operation of the second cup Jake was feeling lightheaded and found himself hanging on the blonde’s every word. She was like a figment of his imagination, always seeming to say the things he wanted to hear, and always ready to listen to his stories.

“Anyways,” Jake said, taking another sudsy sip from his mug, “I tracked the demon from the manor house to his lair in a nearby cave and killed him. And that is where I got my portalling ability from.”

Isabelle gave his arm a tight squeeze. “That’s mighty heroic of you.” She swooned. “I have to ask...how has a man like you not nailed down a woman yet?” She leaned in closer and the heavy scent of lavender filled Jake’s nostrils, she ran a single finger on the underside of his chin. “Careful. You stay here too long and Joshua is going to have to up is game, you’re far more the catch than he-oh speak of the devil.”

Jake flushed crimson and looked away, enjoying the feeling of her fingers on the muscles of his arm. “I travel a lot,” he said, “I only recently settled in Underwood because I thought it might be best for Amari... “ he trailed off, not knowing what to say in response to her over the top compliment.

“You’re a wonderful friend, Jake and a wonderful man…” She added in a huskier tone as she leaned closer, her lips grazing his ear.

Jake drew a sharp breath at the wet, warm contact on his tender skin. He bit his lip and glanced anxiously around, suddenly worried someone might be watching them. He didn’t see any watchers, but he did see… Amari and Breaker, seated together in a booth.

“That’s very kind of you to say,” Jake said. He could feel hot emotion rising in his belly, but didn’t know whether to call it anger or jealousy or… something else. His arm slipped around Isabelle and caressed the small of her back. “I’m glad to have met you.”

“And I you…” she breathed, her hand sneaking further up his leg. “If you like… we can take this else where?” She asked as she liked her lips and pressed herself against him. “Your friend has company, so why shouldn’t you?”

Jake flushed deep crimson. He knew what that meant. Ordinarily such invitations were reserved for the end of the night, when the candles had burned low and the serving girls were bored and looking for a little slap and tickle. He glanced at Amari again, who seemed entranced by Breaker. She was enjoying someone’s company, so why shouldn’t he?

“Alright,” he said, taking Isabelle’s hand, “let’s go…”

Isabelle all too readily took it, and guided it to her behind, then wrapped her other arm around his waist, and with a giggle into his neck she lead him out of the pub.

“I feel a little better now.” Amari said with a sigh as she put her glass down. “I really enjoy your company, but I shan’t break a promise.” She stood and pushed her chair in. “I need to prepare a home cooked meal for Jake. I was considering purchasing him a drink to enjoy tonight as well. Do you have any recommendations you’d think he would like?”

“He may be busy tonight.” Joshua said as he lifted his glass toward the rather intimate pair as they breezed past. Amari followed and then saw ….Jake?

Jake was in very close quarters with Isabelle. Wait? Isabelle, is that why she was asking so many questions about Jake? Amari felt frustrated that she had allowed herself to be duped so easily. “I see..” she said under her breath. Her hand tightening its hold over the back of the chair. How could she have been so...gullible?

Joshua set his empty glass down and gave her a quizzical look. “Surely you aren’t jealous, Amari?” He asked in a slightly teasing tone.

“Jealous….” Amari repeated as she watched the two disappear into the crowd. She wasn’t sure. “I don’t...know. I feel betrayed. That girl pretended to be my friend to get closer to him, and he- surely he knows how important a promise is to me? Our word….” She turned to Joshua, angry tears dotting her eyes. “Our word is all we have right? So why? She shook her head, and took a few deep breaths.

No...this was unfair…

“Jake… can do as he pleases, he’s been quite angry with me lately and maybe this is why. I need to give him his own space. Promises may not hold the same meaning to him but II won’t break mine. Even if he eats it later...He will get his home cooked meal as promised.” Amari said, defeated.

“That sounds a little like you’re setting yourself up for disappointment.” Josh pointed out. “Anyway, why are you cooking for him on your birthday? Shouldn’t it be the other way around?”

“I suppose so, but...serving others is all I really know. I do what I can for him. I launder his clothes, I ensure he is bathed. I feed him. Is that not natural for a servant girl to do?” Amari asked. Her eyes widened when she saw Joshua’s face sour. “Oh. No! I don’t mean it like that, I’m not his servant or anything of the sort I just-I enjoy helping others. My birthday was never a big deal anyway. Regardless… I can’t break my promise. I’d feel worse if I did.”

Amari paused. “If you like… you can join me, at least then I would not eat alone?”

“I would like that,” Josh said again, his cheeks dimpling. “It’s been awhile since I’ve experienced any Salvic hospitality.”

“Excellent!” Amari said as she clasped her hands together. “Another birthday I won’t have to spend alone.”

Some time had passed, and she had managed to purchase what she needed from the market. Along with a fine wine that Joshua insisted Jake would like, despite his mutterings that the half elf may not deserve such things right now. The two had headed back to the Inn Amari and Jake were residing in.

Joshua had sat at the front bar, whilst Amari - whom had been aiding in the kitchens used her familiarity with the staff and owners to her aide. She created a honey glazed vegetable side, sprinkled with fresh rosemary sprigs and a marbled cut of wild boar. It took all her savings, but she managed to purchase three slices. Cooked in duck fat and slathered with garlic butter.

She had one dish wrapped and sent up to Jakes room along with a hand-written note and a bottle of wine.

The other two plates she carried masterfully out toward Joshua. “Dinner is served, I hope you enjoy. Slavic food tends to be more on the heavy side.” Amari carefully set the plate down in front of Breaker before taking a seat next to him at the bar, she was intently watching his face. Hoping he’d like it.

“This smells amazing,” Breaker said, inhaling deeply. “Who taught you to cook so well?”

Amari blushed profusely. “M-myself. I’d read cookbooks and it was trial and error, I’d get punished if it wasn’t good. So it was important to learn quickly!” She took a dainty bite of her own meal and savoured the burst of fatty juices.

“Mm…”

She opened her eyes and turned to Joshua. “I’m happy… that I was able to share this day with others. I’m being spoilt. Two years where I have not been alone on my birthday!” She laughed an honest laugh as she started to eat her vegetables.

“Well I’m glad to be a part of it,” Breaker said, digging into his own meal. “Mmmm,” a sound of deep contentment vibrated from his throat as he took a large bite.

The two exchanged pleasantries, and a few glasses of wine over the course of the meal. The sun had long since set, and Jake as still nowhere in sight. Despite that, Amari had enjoyed herself and had enjoyed spending the time with Joshua. Even if she did have a niggling feeling of concern in the pit of her stomach.

“It’s getting late…” Amari commented as she stared absently out the window. “I haven’t kept you have I?”

“Not at all,” Josh grinned, “no matter how important I like to think I am, this village keeps on functioning without me. Just the same as it did before I came here.”

A part o Amari didn’t want to be alone, but a part of her was still concerned. She stood and pushed away from the bar stool. Cheeks flushed. “You’ve been too kind.” She said to Joshua. “I’m not sure I could have asked for a nicer present from you.” She jested with a wry grin.

“A present?” Josh said, standing alongside her. “Now there’s an idea.” He took Amari’s hand in his and held his other palm above hers. Mist wreathed his wrist, and in a blink a small flower forged from ice took shape. It was cool to touch, though not so cold as regular ice, and seemed strong as steel despite the daintiness of its petals. “A little something to remind you of home.”

“J-Joshua…this is…” Amari had no words… what was she supposed to say? What was she supposed to do? She shook her head and pressed it into his chest, wrapping her arms around his back in an embrace as she breathed “thank you” into the musky scent of his clothes. “Thank you….Joshua….thank you….”

“You’re very welcome,” he said, trailing callused fingers through her long hair.

She felt that same, strange fiery feeling rise from the pit of her stomach, parts of her wanted to continue. To feel his fingers graze other parts of her skin and to test the taste of his lips against hers. She was suddenly very aware of every inch of him and how it had pressed against her..

Amari quickly pulled away so her own lewd thoughts would dissipate. She wasn’t sure what the man thought of her, or why such thoughts had rushed at her so. “I uh.” She couldn’t hide the exasperated tone of her voice. “I need to finish Jake’s laundry… I should go.” She gave his hand one last squeeze and chanced a single small kiss on his cheek, but before seeing his reaction. She pulled away, and hastily made her way upstairs.

Safely in her room, Amari pressed her back against the door. Her hand over her beating heart.

She had made such a fool of herself… how uncouth….

She couldn’t…..she couldn’t do such things with Breaker...Jake would get angry.

Even so...isn’t that what he was doing with Isabelle right now?

If so...why was he so angry with her all the time?

Amari slide down to the floor. Exhausted. She let her hand tilt back and forth, watching the flower glimmer in the dim light. It ended up being...an interesting birthday to say the least.

Breaking the silence, a polite knock at the door interrupted her thoughts.

“A-Ah! Who is there?” Amari called out, scrambling away from the door. She hadn’t expected company, was it Jake? Had he come back? “Jake? Ah… your clothes… one moment…” She shifted to the bd where a neat pile of folded shirts sat and picked them up before heading to the door and opening it.

“I’m sorry, I should have left them on-”

“Not Jake,” Breaker said, a faint flush showing in his cheeks. He held a bottle of Yurik’s Firewhisky in one hand, and two tumbler glasses in the other. “If you want me to go, I will,” he said, lingering on the threshold, “but I thought… you might rather not be alone.”

“C-come in….” Amari stammered as she quickly put the clothes to one side. “Joshua, I didn’t mean to make such a fool of myself earlier. I acted rather...uncouth and I apologise.” Amari said as Breaker had already poured two glasses. He handed one to her and had taken a sip out of his own. He didn’t seem to mind.

“No apology necessary,” Joshua said, taking a step closer so he was looking down, directly into her eyes. “I enjoyed your company so much, I didn’t want it to end.”

Amari had to lift the glass to her lips and take two large swigs of the firewhiskey to deal with this. The liquor burned her mouth and settled warmly in her stomach, finally, she admitted to him what she had wanted to say to anyone… all day. “I don’t want to be alone anymore.”

Breaker’s free hand trailed through her scarlet tresses, and then landed beneath her chin and lifted her face slightly. “You don’t have to be,” he said. “I’m here.”

Two large breasts bounced in unison as Isabelle ground herself against Jake, with each gyration of her hip she’d give a soft moan. Her body glistened with sweat from a day of giving into sordid desires. Her neat, perfectly trimmed nails dug into the flesh of Jakes chest as she pressed her forehead between the crook of his neck. Visibly shivering as her entire body spasmed, rising into an orgasmic crescendo. Her lips grazed his neck as she murmured dirty words into his ear.

Heat built up in Jake’s body and brain as he tasted Isabelle’s sweet sweat, enjoying her wetness and depravity. The half elf had though he knew a thing or two about the desires of women, but Isabelle had opened his eyes to a whole new world of carnal activity.

‘“I want to feel you quiver inside of me,” She purred, pushing strands of hair out of his face. “Don’t disappoint me~” She teased.

With a growl Jake rolled her over and took her from behind, grasping her hips to increase his pressure and thrusting into her over and over. Isabelle let out a long low moan of pleasure as she ground her ass back against him. Jake squeezed her supple cheeks and stroked her until he could stand it no more, and emptied his sack inside of her. They fell to laying on the bed together, a tangle of arms and legs, laughing lightly and touching one another. This lasted a few minutes, until Isabelle looked out the window and realized how dark it had grown.


“Shit.” She hissed as she started to hastily dress herself. “I was due home an hour ago.” She paused, still partly dressed and gave Jake a wry grin. “At least we shall both sleep well tonight.” She stalked over to him and pressed her bare chest against his torso. Her skin was still slick with sweat. “Let’s do this again tomorrow.” She purred, running a finger along the underside of his chin. “I will wait for you on the morrow, take me to your favourite places during the day...and when evening comes - I shall take you to to mine, and take you again.”

“I wouldn’t miss it,” Jake said, leaning forward.

She pressed her lips to his and gave him one last feverish kiss before leaving Jake alone. As he held the door open for her, the half elf noticed a covered tray with a note sitting on the floor next to his entryway.

Oh no… he thought, as memories from the day flooded back. He carried the try inside and set it down on the dresser, quickly reading the note.

Dear Jake,

I’m sorry I had to duck away during your training. Breaker lead me to the botanist who needed my aid. I saw you in the pub but did not want to bother you with your companion.

I think I realise now, why you have been frustrated with me. I haven’t given you enough space to do what you wish. With whom you wish.

Instead of stopping you, I let you have your fun. Please enjoy this meal. I hope it will be just as enjoyable now as it was when I first made it.

Thank you for everything.
-Amari.

So Amari knew he’d been with Isabelle… how? That didn’t matter. What mattered was that, in a haze of ale and lust, Jake had forgotten to attend her birthday dinner. He paced back and forth and then set on the bed, folding and unfolding the note. There was nothing he could do about it tonight. He would just have to wait for the morrow, and get her that handkerchief, and hope that all could be forgiven.

Amari awoke the next day, groggy. Her and Joshua had shared drinks, talking late into the night. She was sure that he had moved in to kiss her a few times, but she rebuffed. She hadn’t admitted it to him, but she was afraid. She had never consciously kissed anyone, granted… the sordid memories of what her brother did to her...a part of her knew that they were ingrained into her being - that was what her brother wanted after all - but Amari didn’t want him to think less of her. She shifted out of her bed her eyes fell to the folded note on her bedside table, a note from her late night guest.

Dear Amari,

Thank you for sharing your birthday with me, it is not often I find occasion for such a relaxing evening. You are a wonderful cook and a great friend. I only hope I didn’t overstay my welcome. Be seeing you soon,

Joshua.


Amari read it and smiled. He had a good time, and he had let himself out. He made sure she wasn’t alone that night and that meant more than the world to her. She glanced to her wrist at the intricate weaving. It glimmered in the morning light.

Morning.

Jake would be up soon. Amari, despite feeling quite hungover got dressed, and headed downstairs to order food for both herself and her friend. She was surprised however, to see a familiar face beaming at her from a table, with two plates already in front of her. “Amari! Over here!” Isabelle said, waving her over.

Curious...and still a little miffed at her...Amari cautiously headed over to the blonde. “What?”

Isabelle flinched, “Oo, well a good morning to you too sunshine.” She huffed.

Thinking that maybe...she was wrong Amari sighed and rubbed her head. “Sorry… I should not have snapped. How are you Isabelle? What brings you here?”

“Jake and I are spending the day together.” She beamed. “We’re going on a date...I hope we didn’t keep you up last night. You’re in the room next to him, right?”

Amari nodded. “Yes, I am but I hadn’t really heard anything.” Amari had a guess to what Isabelle was implying, but she wasn’t going to question it. She honestly hadn’t heard a thing, perhaps if she wasn’t with Breaker, she would have - but their conversations filled whatever silence would have unsettled Amari.

“You...don’t mind do you?” Isabelle asked, a finger circling the glass before her. “Jake and I, I mean...It’s not like you can follow him around forever, right?”

Amari felt her gut twist. “Right. I assume that plate is for him?” Isabelle nodded. “Yup. I hope he likes it. I mean, I know I worked up an appetite last night, if you know what I mean…” Isabelle eyed Amari suspiciously.

“I’m sure you do know.” She said with a small wink.

Amari didn’t. She instead offered Isabelle a small smile, the girl was being nice enough… but Amari still felt betrayed and didn’t exactly what to spend a lot of time around her. “I see. I’ll leave you two to your day.” Amari headed over to a smaller table to sit on her own and ordered herself a cup of tea. She wasn’t really hungry.

Was this how things were meant to be now? Would this mean she’d see Jake less and less? Amari stared at her disheveled reflection in the tea. Thaynes above she looked a mess. Amari glanced back at Isabelle who was prettying herself up in a small pocket mirror then to the stairs, she could see the familiar boots trudge down them. Jake was awake.

“Mayhaps we will spend some time together tonight.” Amari told herself as she took a sip from her cup. She watched as Jake glanced at her, then to Isabelle who had jumped from the table and escorted him to her own. He glanced over at Amari and she mustered up the warmest smile she could and waved at him.

She wanted him to be happy at least.

Jake awkwardly waved at Amari as Isabelle dragged him to her table and sat him down. Before him sat a plate of fruit and roasted vegetables. What, no protein? How was he supposed to train on a stomach full of rabbit food?

“I hope you slept as well as I did last night,” Isabelle said suggestively as he picked up his fork.

“Err, yeah I did, thanks.” Jake said. He shoveled food into his mouth, wanting to get out of the inn as soon as possible. He could feel Amari’s eyes on him, and knew the fact he was sitting with Isabelle rather than her probably bothered her. Hopefully the handkerchief would make up for it. He just needed to get away from the blonde long enough to pick the gift up and deliver it. How hard could that be?

Isabelle slide out of her chair and shifted behind Jake, her hands danced over his shoulders. “You seem tense sweetie…” She massaged them in slow circles before drawling them down his chest. Jake thought he caught her throw Amari a triumphant gaze, but it was gone as quickly as it had came. Isabelle pressed her lips to Jakes cheek. “I planned for us to go on a horse drawn ride later tonight, doesn’t that sound romantic?”

“Sounds lovely,” Jake muttered, his mouth full. “I’ll probably spend most of the day at the Dansdel though. Got to keep training.”

“I enjoy watching your body…” Isabelles hands went lower, “Move…”

Jake moved alright, nearly jumping out of his chair. He finished his meal and wiped his mouth on a sleeve and then stood and faced Isabelle.

“Thanks for breakfast it was.. Er… lovely.” He said, trying not to notice Amari. “I’d better be off, but I’ll see you later…” he hesitated a moment, and then leaned in and gave her a quick peck on the cheek.

She grabbed onto his arm before he could move away. “She was with him last night, just so you know. You shouldn’t feel guilty about us…” She gently let him go at that. “I will meet you at the Dansdel a little later then Jake.”

“Alright,” Jake said, wondering what Amari and Josh had gotten up to, and why Isabelle found it so important to tell him. “I’ll see you there…” he broke away from the blonde and all but ran out of the inn.

The wind tugged at his black silken scarf and played in his dirty blond hair as he hurried along the sunny streets of Underwood. He stopped at his favourite bakery to purchase an egg sandwich (he needed some real food, after all) and munched on it as he made his way to the seamstress’ shop. She was just opening up as he arrived at the door.

“Oh, it’s you!” The shopkeeper said. “I was expecting you yesterday.”

“Sorry about that,” Jake said, blushing, “I got a little sidetracked. Is my order still ready?”

“Of course,” the woman laughed, “handkerchiefs don’t go bad.” She brought him to the back of the shop and handed him the freshly pressed kerchief. Embroidered in blue on the violet cloth were the words “For Amari, From Jake”.

“Perfect,” Jake said. He paid the lady and then folded the kerchief and put it in his pocket and exited the shop, heading straight for the Dansdel. With any luck, he’d get there before Isabelle and she’d never question his whereabouts.

Amari stood to leave shortly after Jake. She had planned to go the training grounds and sit and watch him for a short while, just to show that she was there and wanted to support him. Then she figured she’d return to the greenhouse, not to heal any of the plants today but to rest. She didn’t have it in her to do any work. Just as she was leaving the entrance was blocked by the blonde haired vixen. “Amari~” she cooed as she looped her arm around Amari’s shoulder. “Let’s walk and talk.”

“Isabelle, I don’t do well with contact… it.-”

Isabelle quickly withdrew her arm. “Ah! My mistake.” She sounded genuinely surprised. “I didn’t mean to intrude. Are you heading to the Dansdel?”

Amari nodded. “Yeh… I was going to watch Jake a bit then head of. I’ll see him this evening.”

“Uhp, actually...he and I have plans this evening.” Isabelle said. “And I mean… I guess its ok for you to watch him today, but you shouldn’t do that so much yanno? I’m his girl now, that’s my job.” Isabelle laughed. “Nothing against you, I’d just feel a little funny about having another woman around him so much. You’d understand right? Imagine if I was all over Joshua?” She snorted, “well, again.”

Amari narrowed her eyes at the implication. “What you do in your own time is up to you, but Joshua and I...we haven’t done anything of the sort. I just told you I don’t do well with physical contact.”

“What? No shit. Really? You mean you two didn’t-”

“What? No! I mean..all we did was talk...Isabelle… you can’t expect me to stay away from Jake. He’s my friend.” Amari wasn't sure what to think of Isabelle, a part of her thought the girl was kind, but then there were times where it seemed like she was controlling or had ulterior motives. It was difficult to tell, and Amari was never really good with social interaction so couldn’t tell if it were her own paranoia or not.

“Well. Jake and I are fucking. So I’d appreciate it if you backed off. I’ll let today slide, but don’t do it again.” she muttered.

Amari wanted to tell the girl that she had no right saying what Amari could and couldn’t do. Amari felt for the first time in well….ever a fire burn inside of her. A part of her wanted to slap some sense into the woman, but she held her hand stiffly to her side. “Jake isn’t a commodity to own.” Amari hissed. “Don’t treat him like an object.”

At this Isabelle scoffed. “Oh, like you’d be able to treat him any better. You can’t even have him touch you. No wonder why he’s so worked up. Face it, sweetheart. You’re not cut out for this.” Isabelle moved in front of Amari. “Why don’t you go run along to your little plants and play botany with the crazy ol’ lady.”

“I want to see Jake.”

Isabelle took a step closer. “Did I not make myself clear?” Amari felt a prick against her skin and realised it was a small dagger. It was not uncommon for women to carry them around tucked away in the folds of their clothing...but to have one drawn on her? Amari realised she should have trusted her gut. “Step away and head to your little house. Mention a word of this to anyone and I will cut out your pretty little tongue.” Isabelle hissed. “I like Jake, he’s a good fuck, a good soul, and has a plethora of magic at his fingertips. He will be happy with me.”

Isabelles voice lightened as she stepped away, giving Amari a light pat on her shoulder. “Ahaha, oh sweetie, you and your crazy plant talk. I do hope we can still be friends.” And with that she waved Amari goodbye.

At a loss of what to do, Amari turned and headed home. She didn’t want to deal with people today, if this is how they truly were. Returning to the inn Amari locked herself in her room and shut off all the lights before grabbing the blanket off the bed and sitting in the corner of her room.

Humans were bastards.

She pressed her head into her knees and for the first time in her life, she felt anger, real anger - a fury that she didn’t know how to cope with or deal with.

Jake made it back to the Dansdel without running into Isabelle, but failed to find Amari in the stands. He was just turning to head toward the greenhouse when Joshua Cronen stepped out from behind a hay cart.

“Jake,” Breaker said, his face for once not spread in a stupid grin. “Have you seen Amari? When she wasn’t at the greenhouse I figured she’d be here.”

“Keeping pretty close tabs on her, aren’t you?”Jake retorted. He tried to walk past the man but Breaker flowed at his side like a hunting jungle cat.

“You’re her best friend, as far as I can tell.” The sheriff said. “Where do you think she might be?”

“How should I know? I was about to go looking for her at the greenhouse, so you’re one step ahead of me, Breaker.” Jake changed directions, turning down a different road, but the damn man moved like a ghost and stayed with him. “Look, maybe she went for a walk in the woods. That’s something you’d have advised, right?”

“Maybe,” Josh said, “or maybe she’s just back at the inn. If I do a quick patrol around the town, will you check her room?”

Jake bit back another retort and took a deep breath. Breaker seemed concerned, and he was just trying to help. And in any case, Jake needed to find Amari before he lost the handkerchief.

“Alright,” he relented, slowing his pace. “She likes that place by the tree where you found us some time ago. Start your search there. I’ll head to the inn.”

“Thank you,” the sheriff said, and hurried away.

Jake turned in the direction of their inn when a familiar blonde head and generous pair of breasts appeared in front of him.

“Jake!” She exclaimed, delighted as she quickly took his arm in her own. “So good to see you! For a moment there I thought you were going to run off on me.” She laughed. “I thought you were going to go train, isn’t the Dansdel in the opposite direction? Did something happen?” She sounded at least a little concerned.

“No, nothing happened,” Jake said, “I just forgot my…” he trailed off as he realized his tonfa was hanging from his hip. “I mean… yes, something happened, but I shouldn’t talk about it.” He said to give himself more time to think.

Isabelle tightened her grip on his arm. “Why not? You can tell me, maybe I can help?”

“No it’s just… there was this guy I got in a fight with a while ago. Actually, there was three of them. But one of them challenged me to a duel with live weapons. I need to get my sword.”

“Oh… well, let me come with you. I’ll be like emotional support!”

It was clear he was not going to get rid of her.

“Oh, yeah,” Jake said, wondering why he had to be such a terrible liar, “but the duel’s not until tonight.”

“Tonight? Jake! We had plans...what about the carriage ride?” Isabelle let him go and stood in front of him, her hands on his chest. “If it’s not till tonight….why retrieve it now?” She looked up at him with those sad, puppy dog eyes. “If we miss out on that ride, will you make it up to me now?”

“Well I wanted to get some practice in with the sword,” Jake explained, “the weight is all different from the stick.”

“Either way I’ll be by your side!” Isabelle said with a bright smile. “Through thick or thin. That’s what partners do, right?”

Jake stifled a grimace and managed to smile instead. He couldn’t take Isabelle to the inn with him, that would ruin everything… in any case, Breaker would probably check there after he searched the forest.

“Alright,” he said, “I’ll make it up to you now. What would you like to do?”

“You~” She said with a coy smirk. “C’mon - I know a place.”

Amari wasn’t sure how long she had been sitting there quietly to her own thoughts. The more she sat there, the more she twisted between feeling angry and upset. She was furious that Isabelle would say such things to her, but even more angry at the fact that they held a lot of truth… Amari had never meant to be a burden to Jake. She had tried her best to help him but at every turn...he seemed to get angry with her. So wouldn’t it be best for her to just leave?

If she was out of the picture wouldn’t Jake be happy? He’d have his...girlfriend or whatever, he’d have his fighting and he had a fantastic teacher and mentor in Joshua. Amari stood and glanced around her room. She didn’t exactly have a lot of things to call her own. Only the few things that Jake had bought her.

Damn..

She really had depended on him too much. Amari pottered about her room, collecting the most basic of things. One set of warm clothes, one set of cooler clothes… shoes and boots. What else did she need? Amari went to look for her handkerchief only to recall that Jake had lost it.

Well.

That’s everything then. Amari sat down at her desk and began to silently write a letter with a heavy heart. This was...for the best. She’d write one for Jake, then one for Joshua. Then she’d go get some supplies and head to the greenhouse to say goodbye to Helen.

Amari left the two letters on the table.Thankfully...Helen had offered her money for her troubles, Amari wouldn’t know what to do without having that small pouch of coins. She needed some sort of rations. Ah...but what do people buy for rations?

A gentle knock echoed through the solid oaken door.

Amari stilled. Who would that have been? She didn’t answer straight away. Instead, she stayed very quiet. Maybe if she didn’t make a sound they’d assume she wasn’t there.

“Amari?” Came Joshua’s voice. “Are you in there?”

Amari wanted to answer him. She wanted to slide her letter under the door and let him know she was leaving, but Amari wasn’t good at that sort of thing. Wouldn’t it have been better to just...go? Amar tiptoed around the side of the bed to hide. Praying that the squeaking floorboards were not loud enough for him to hear.

“Amari… I can hear you moving in there,” the sheriff said somewhat sheepishly. “I don’t know why you’re hidden away, but whatever it is, it can’t possibly be made worse by talking to me. May I come in?”

Amari stayed silent. The door slowly clicked and was pushed open. Amari’s eyes widened when she realised she had forgotten to lock it. She quickly dropped and kicked her travel bag under the bed and awkwardly greeted the man. “A-ah. Hello Joshua. Nice to see you today.”

Josh did not look quite like himself. It was perhaps the first time Amari had seen him sweating, as if he’d been running all over town. Rather than his familiar smile, a troubled expression haunted his gaze.

“It’s good to see you,” he said, “when you weren’t in any of the usual places… I admit, I got worried. Even Jake didn’t know where you were.”

Amari laughed. “Ah..yeh..That’s my fault. I told him I’d meet him at the Dansdel but I wasn’t feeling too good so I came back here to tidy up the room.” She paused. “Did you need me to find you a glass of water? I’d offer you my handkerchief but Jake lost it.” concern filled Amari’s voice as Joshua stepped into the room breathing heavily. Amari moved out the way and gestured for him to sit on her bed. “Sit. I’ll wet a towel for you.”

Amari headed to the bathroom to fetch a hand towel. She drenched it in water and wrung it out before returning it to him. “Here.”

“Ah, thank you.” Josh said, quickly catching his breath. He took the towel and dabbed at his forehead and collar. “What’s the matter?”

“Just a little hungover from last night. I think I need more-” Amari sighed. She didn’t feel comfortable lying. Instead of telling him she headed to her desk and handed him a letter. Detailing her run in with Isabelle, and how she felt she was a burden and that she wanted to grow on her own. Promising to return when she was able to hold her own.

“I was planning on leaving today.” Amari said as she set the letter in Joshua’s lap. “I appreciate everything you’ve done for me, but I feel...well - things get complicated. I’ve been shut away most of my life and I think I need to experience things to understand better.”

Josh was quiet a moment. “I’m sorry,” he said, “I thought you’d found that here. I thought you were happy learning from me, and Helen.”

“I was...I mean I am but - I’m not exactly a wanted nor liked person here Joshua. I want to better myself. The letter sorta explains that.”

“What are you talking about?” He said in surprise. “Who doesn’t like you?”

Amari glanced down at the letter then turned away from him, heading back into the bathroom. Isabelle...Isabelle didn’t like her, nor did half the other girls in town. Jake was beginning to show resentment toward her too. It’d only be a matter of time until Joshua acted the same way. “I’ll get you a water.”

“Just sit with me, for a moment.” Joshua told her. The letter was open in his hands. Finally, he’d read it. Amari hesitated, before finally sitting down next to him. “You know, not everyone is going to like you, everywhere you go. That’s something you’ll have to learn to deal with. If you run from it every time, you’ll soon run out of villages.

“And if you feel like you’re a burden on Jake… well, maybe you have been depending on him too long. Maybe he’s the one who should move on.”

“He’s doing that.” Amari said as she threw herself back onto the bed to stare at the ceiling. The man had given her some things to think about. “I’m happy for him. I think. Just frustrated that I was being lied to, I guess.”

“It sounds like what you really need is to have a proper talk with him.” Josh said. “But if it’s a matter of independence, we could easily find you work around here. You’re a fantastic cook. You might even find a place that isn’t, you know, right next to Jake.”

Amari shifted her eyes to look up at Joshua. How was he smiling? She looked a mess, her hair was sprawled around her and her dress unironed. Still, it warmed her to see him calm again. “I think you’re right. I wish i wasn’t so closed off from the world. I feel I’d be...Smarter? More astute to the life of being an actual adult. My whole life I was-” Amari paused. Unsure of how to continue. “Conditioned by my brother, to be something, and on top of that - I was being prepared to be handed to the Etheral Sway come my 18th. I wonder what would have happened if I didn’t step through that door. How different my life may have been. Would I be stronger? Weaker?”

“You’ll never know,” Josh said, “and you’ll never know for sure what you’ll be tomorrow. Only what you are today. And I hope you choose to stay around, at least for awhile.” He reached out as if to pat her on the shoulder and then hesitated, drawing his hand back. Something seemed to be on his mind but he stood up and moved away. “Why don’t I go and see if Helen has something for your hangover?”

Amari sat up, “Joshua what was -” She was about to question him on it, but became distracted by his offer. “Yeh. Should I join you?”

“You just rest here and… think happy thoughts.” Josh said. “I’ll be back before you know it.”

The greenhouse door banged shut behind them, and Jake returned the hairpins he’d used to pick the lock to Isabelle.

“See?” The blonde said. “That weird plant-loving woman is always gone around the same time. This is the perfect place to fuck.” She led Jake to a table covered by potted ferns and leaned against it, grinding her ass back against his hips. “Go on, adventurer. See what you discover under my skirt.”

“I’ve already felt that,” Jake growled, his blood roused. “Maybe I want to try something else.” He spun her around forcefully and tangled a hand in that long blonde hair, kissing her hard on the lips. His pressure on the roots of her hair increased and she obediently sank to her knees, wide eyes looking up at him all the while.

“Will this please you?” She asked, fingers working on the laces of his breeches. She licked her lips and then kissed his cock as it sprang free. Her hands encircled his waist as her mouth went to work, and before Jake knew what was happening she’d pulled the handkerchief free.

“Jake?! What is this?” She demanded, standing up and wiping her lips. Jake put himself away and stammered to explain.

“It was a present, for Amari’s birthday. Which was yesterday, but I forgot to give it to her then, so I was just-”

“You were just on your way to give it to her now? And you lied to me? There is no duel tonight, is there?” She demanded.

“Err, no.” Jake shuffled his feet. “Look, I just didn’t want you to get upsest-”

“Well great job!”

“Um… excuse me.” Jake winced at the sound of the familiar voice and turned around slowly. There stood Breaker, staring at them in confusion. “What are you two doing in here?”

“I, we were just, I mean-” Jake stammered.

“Oh for fuck’s sake, we were fucking!” Isabelle exclaimed. “Or we were GOING to. Not now.” She pushed her way past the sheriff and marched out of the greenhouse, still carrying the handkerchief embroidered for Amari.

“Shit,” Jake swore, “I better go after her-”

“You can do that after you explain how you got in here,” Breaker said, raising a firm hand, “and I think you and I should have a talk about Amari. Or rather, I should tell you that you need to have a talk with Amari.”

“What? Come on, me and Amari are fine.” Jake said. “Wait, so you found her?”

“Back at the inn. She was getting ready to leave town.”

“What?” Jake exclaimed. “Why would she do that?”

“Mostly it seems something to do with a run in with your blonde friend there. But it’s partially the way you’re treating her. She needs some space to grow in.”

“She can have all the space she wants!” Jake said.

“Living in the room next to yours, and doing your laundry?”

“Hey,” Jake said defensively, “that was her idea. It was kind of like a tradition, from the first night we met. I thought it was part of Salvic hospitality.”

“It doesn’t matter, you need to stop abusing your relationship with her.”

“Oh come on,” Jake said weakly. “You don’t really think… you’re right, I need to go and talk to her.”

“Not now,” Josh said, “she’s expecting me. If you care about salvaging your relationship with the blonde, I suggest you go do something about that.”

Jake groaned. The handkerchief.

There were a series of loud knocks at the door. Amari groaned. She had taken Joshua’s advice and drawn the curtains to rest in the dark room. She assumed it was Joshua. “S’Open….” She mumbled.

The door swung open, bouncing off of its hinges. “YOU fuckin’ harlot! I told you to stay away from him.”

Amari sat up rubbing her eyes. “Isabelle? I haven’t seen him today … except this morning what are y-” Isabelle had stalked across the room and practically threw Amari out of bed. “I fuckin’ warned you, you conniving bitch.”

“Really, I just want sleep right now...Isabelle I-Urrkk…” Amari felt a pang of heat at her side. Isabelle had dug the knife down into her abdomen. “Stay. Away.” She hissed before making a quick exit.
Amari groaned...she hadn’t been stabbed before, this -this pain. Ah. There was lots of blood. She lifted her shaking hands to stare at them. Red. It dripped from her hands and plopped lightly in the growing puddle around her. Her eyes stung and she tried to call out for help but no words came out. She shook. Was this what Jake meant when he said that the body goes into shock? Amari slumped down, her head colliding with the wooden floorboards.

She opened her mouth again but no words came out. She had to...she had to do something. Her hands found their way back to her wound and a flickering dim light sank into her flesh. Amari gave a startled cry that gurgled at the back of her throat. Somehow...her wound had began to heal. It wasn’t enough to completely recover, but enough to steep the bleeding. The pain that wracked her body was twice that of what she felt.

Shit….shit shit shit….I can’t...let...anyone see this…

She thought to herself as she tried to drag herself to the bathroom. All she had to do was clean up. All she had to do was….

Hours had passed. So much so that when Amari finally awoke, it was night time. Her side stung and her head was heavy. It took her a few moments to process what had happened

A tired knock came at the door, followed by Joshua’s voice calling to her.

Right… he had gone to Helens to get her some said.Amari lifted herself up off the ground with a great deal of effort. Her clothes painfully stuck to the floorboards from dried blood and Amari struggled to find the energy to continue to lift herself up. “H-Here..:” She weakly called out, unsure if he heard her.

“Sorry I was so long,” Josh said as he strolled into the room, “I was sidetracked on my way back. There was a robbery on the outskirts of town, and-” he cut off, sniffing the air. “Amari, is that blood?”

“I-I’m fine…” She called out from the bathroom. Determined to not let him worry. SHe was stronger than this. What was this? A flesh wound… a part of her screamed at her that this was nothing, and that she had to get up. First one foot...then the other…She reached out for the sink and used it for support. “J-just give me a minute…” She glanced down at herself. Her blood soaked clothes would have to be removed. With one hand on the sink she used the other hand to slip off her pants and then to pry the clothing away from her wound. It stuck there and she hissed inwardly, biting down on her tongue to avoid altering Joshua. “I-I need...bathe...:” Amari struggled to call out to him. “W-wait p-p-p-lease?”

“Amari, what’s wrong?” Josh called. “What happened here?”

“F-fell…” She wheezed as Amari finally managed to pull her top over her head. Great… now all she had to do was ...walk to the other side of the bathroom, climb into the bath, wash herself and dress herself without alerting Breaker to the fact that she had been stabbed.

...just a walk in the park right?

Amari stepped away from the sink only to come crashing down hard against the floor. Her plan may have been a little too over zealous. She swore loudly at the pain.

The bathroom door practically came off its hinges as Joshua entered the room. He was at her side in a moment, hands tracing the partially healed wound on her side. Aside from the pain she felt other sensations welling up inside of her. She shifted her legs awkwardly and gave a small moan.

“Who did this to you?” He demanded. “I’m so sorry Amari, this is all my fault.”

“N-no…” Amari said as she grabbed his upper arm. “Just...Isabelle is… a little protective I think.” Amari joked. It was hard to concentrate the feelings of pain and pleasure ebbing at her core, each one vying for control. She knew it had something to do with her brothers sigils but beyond that, had no idea how to stop it. A part of her didn’t want the mish-mash to end so she pressed herself further into his body.

“That crazy blonde sack of crazy?” Josh asked. “She stabbed you? I sent Jake after her… I’d better go and find them now. I’ll have one of the serving girls come up to see to you.”

Amari groaned at his suggestion. Did he have to leave? Her hand gripped his jacket. “There’s...something… I need to tell you…” She breathed. “About my past…” She wanted to tell him everything she knew, everything Jake had told her that was in the book he had, and so she did. She told him all of it before finally letting go of his clothes.

Josh picked her up effortlessly and carried her into the bedroom. He set her down on the mattress and covered her with blankets. “Just a minute,” he said, and returned in one with a wet towel, as she’d done for him. He moved the blankets aside and bathed her wound, brushing away the dried blood.

“If I knew it took getting stabbed for you to tell me all that, I never would have asked.” He said.

Amari managed a laugh. “It isn’t easy to admit your whole childhood you were subconsciously raised to be a sex toy.” Her words sounded so harsh when she said them, so much so that Joshua stopped for a moment. Amari tried to brush it off. “It’s fine… you should talk to Jake he has the book. He’d know more…” Amar turned to Joshua and pressed her hand to his cheek. “Thank you. Its...relieving to have that off my chest.”

“Thank you for telling me,” he said, putting a heavily callused hand overtop of hers.

“It’s why I’m so….cautious, why I ran away that night I kissed you...and why I rebuffed your advances. I’m worried of what I may turn into. I want to try but I just….”

“I understand,” he said, “that’s part of the reason I want you to stay. So I can help keep you on a good path.”

"What if my path is destined to go someplace dark?" Amari asked. "I...I have these dreams that I am this horribly scarred woman - of a man with long platinum hair and cold green eyes. I..." Amari glanced down at her hands. "I do terrible things in those dreams."

Breaker squeezed her hand. "Sometimes timelines and pathways intersect. The possibilities are endless. They may be dreams, they may be a past life or one that could have been. But Amari. You need to promise me something." He lifted her chin with his hand and she met his warm hazel gaze. "Promise me whatever happens these coming days, weeks, and months that you won't leave. That you will hold strong and know that there are people that care about you. Can you promise me that?"

Amari slowly nodded, feeling entranced by his gaze. How could she not agree when he was so close to her? "I promise."

Breaker smiled and exhaled slowly. Amari furrowed her brow wondering if he had been holding his breath. He hesitated and drew in closer. She thought he was going to kiss her and felt nervous, alive, her heart pounding. Then he pulled away and chucked. Breaker stood. "For now you need rest. I will sort things out. Take care Amari."

He ensured she got to the bed safely before bidding a final farewell to the woman. Promising that in the coming months. Things would be alright.

And Amari had faith in not only him, but Jake - that everything would work out in the end.

Breaker was right. There were probably countless lives she has lived, different paths and possibilities that could have happened but didn't. She could have never stepped through that door with Jake. She could have gone to the Church - and what then?

Here, and now.

This was her happy story.

Jake receives 1525 EXP and 145 GP!

Amari receives 1910 EXP and 165 GP (inclusive of noble commerce ability)!

All rewards added!