What could have been

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*An alternative timeline to this thread
A what if scenario if she ‘did’ step through the portal.

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It was difficult to comprehend everything that had happened that night. Amari had spent the day alone, doing menial chores. Her highlight was looking forward to a well cooked meal and a small cake to celebrate her birthday. Instead, the half elf named Jake had quite literally barged into her life, planning to steal from her estate a pittance of food. He was sweet, and charming, and a little bit skittish. Instead of shooing him away Amari offered him her company, a bath, hot meal, and a bed for the night. The two genuinely enjoyed each other's’ company. It was no doubt one of the most interesting days of Amari’s life. Unfortunately, nothing good ever lasts. Her brother had returned home early, enraged, he and Jake exchanged heated words that went well over the naive noblewoman's head.

Jake spoke of underhanded and taboo sigils, and how her brother wasn’t the kind and loving man Amari knew him to be. Her brother, always quick to anger had happened upon Jake, seeing him as an intruder and went in for the attack. Then..then there was Amari, the redhead stuck between both trying to quell the men's turbulent emotions.

“Lamont! Enough. Jake is a guest in our home, please treat him as such!”

Amari turned her back on her brother, now facing Jake. "And Jake!" She snapped, before taking a deep breath and using a softer, pained tone. "Please...I do not know what was in brothers journal - but I do know my brother. He'd never har-" Her words stilled and turned into inaudible mumbles. Lamont had thrust the needle into the back of her neck. Quickly injecting her with the serum. "h-harm...me..." Her eyes watered. Her legs buckled, before she could fall Lamont caught her in his arms. The syringe fell to the floor and rolled toward the portal door. "Hush sweet Amari, it'll be over soon."

"B-brother....?" Amari could feel herself slipping. She tried to move but her body did not respond she felt as though she was drowning, and slipping away into unconsciousness. It was a horrifying feeling. She wanted to scream and to cry, to beg him why - but all she could do was stare up at him silently, till her eyes glazed over, and her consciousness was nothing more than a dull buzz. Her once brilliant gaze became lidded and lifeless.

Lamont gripped Amari's crimson tresses in his hands. Watching Jake with a wicked grin. He pulled her virtually lifeless form up so he could deeply inhale her scent. "Don't you just love how she smells of the forest?" He mused as he let go of her hair. Amari fell to the floor with a soft thud.

"Jake, was it?" His blue eyes shifted to Jake's pointed ears. "Half-Elf. Your accent suggests you're from..." He tilted his head to the side, feigning thought. "Corone?" He asked. Lamont didn't need Jake to answer, unlike Amari he was extremely well read, and intelligent. He was able to pick up on the most subtle of nuances and analyse them.

"And you can summon portals," He stepped over Amari. "Not unheard of. I've looked into it myself. I lack the ability to do so. Course..." His voice was no longer filled with rage, it was smooth. Calculating. "I can pay people to do that for me."

Jake pulled out the quill again, but he was met with a cluck of Lamont's tongue.

"Amari, would you be so kind as to unbutton the upper half of your nightgown, and stand in front of me?"

Jake watched in horror as the limp figure of Amari sat up, and with dull eyes she wordlessly unbuttoned her gown until the full curvature of her milky breasts spilled out. She then stood. Placing herself between Lamont and Jake. "Good Doll." Lamont purred into her ear. "If any weapon appears in his hand, I want you to impale yourself upon it." A single nod was her reply.

"Excellent. Now." Lamont raised his eyes. "How about you flee, like the coward you are - or you lose both your life..." Lamont gestured toward Amari, "and in the process- take hers. Consider my kind offer Jake. I am not a patient man."

Lamont paused, gripping Amari's shoulders with his hands. "Or perhaps you wanted some fun first? You are a lad of good taste, no?" He pushed the girl toward Jake. “I see where your eyes travel. Why not have a taste? She won’t remember a thing when she comes to.”

A life of hardship, thievery, and demon hunting had finely tuned Jake’s nerves for such situations. As Amari stumbled robotically toward him, the half elf sidestepped and opened the doorway he’d created. The redhead stumbled on through, and Jake followed her. He pocketed the syringe as he passed and tossed a last jibe at Lamont as the portal dissipated.

“No one’s going to be having fun with her, you bastard!”

“Well don’t say that Jake, she looks like all kinds of fun.”

The half elf wheeled around. He had transported himself and Amari to his shared quarters in the Bandit Brotherhood. They stood in a room made all of wood, sanded oak and yew floorboards, walls, and ceilings. An array of overstuffed closets and dressers stood between rows of bunk beds.

“Seriously Jake, where did you find a redhead like this? I love redheads.” The tall bandit leered at Amari’s topless form, and his compatriot chuckled, also enjoying the sight. The girl stood almost lifelessly, oblivious to the situation.

“Back off, Leon.” Jake snapped. He swept off his cloak and draped it around Amari’s shoulders. “Amari, cover yourself.” The girl complied, still in some kind of trance. “Go and get Damon,” Jake told the other bandits, “she needs help.”

“The boss is off hunting vamps,” the tall human replied, eyes still pasted to the sliver of pale skin visible through the folds of the cloak. “No one here to protect her but you, little Jake.” He reached out to pull the cloak away from Amari. “Besides, it’s not like she minds…”

“She was poisoned,” Jake growled. He shoved the larger man away and drew his quill menacingly. The feather transformed into the iron hilt of a sword from which a blade of still fire grew. “Don’t make me use this.”

“You’re lucky you’re one of Damon’s favorites,” Leon spat, but he raised his hands and backed away. “Otherwise we’d leave your corpse in a ditch somewhere and have our way with her. Come on,” he said to his friend, “let’s go into town and find a redhead of our own. Seems little Jake doesn’t know how to share.” They chuckled as they exited the building. Jake followed them with his blade, until it turned towards Amari and she tried to throw herself on the tip.

“No, Amari!” Jake exclaimed. He let the sword become a quill again and stuffed it in his pocket. “Never mind anything your brother said to you. Oh by the Thayne, what am I to do?”

She paused in her tracks, blank eyes staring at him, as though she were awaiting more orders. She was completely unresponsive to the world around her, and it seemed that she was now obeying Jakes orders.

“Umm… Amari, lay down here.” He pulled back the covers of his bed. “Maybe you can sleep it off.” He watched as she let go of his jacket and climbed into the bed, laying down with an arm resting over her head, the other over her bare stomach, again her eyes drifted to him. Jake covered her with the blankets and sat on the edge of the bed. “Close your eyes now,” he said, trying to make his voice low and soothing, “go to sleep, Amari.” She closed her eyes, and before long it appeared as though she had fallen asleep.

Jake sat at her side through the night, every so often pulling the syringe from his pocket to examine it, hoping that when she awakened, Amari would be right again. There was a murmur from her, as she rolled over, she reached out and gripped the loose cloth of his shirt sleeve.

She had the strangest dream that night, she dreamt of strange tall men, of being dragged through mysterious doors and of a monster who had taken the form of her brother. She groaned as she shuffled under the covers, pulling them tighter over her form. “Cold…” She mumbled. She felt the heat of another person close to her and she instinctively inched closer toward it. “Brother…” She mumbled, her hands finding his arm. “What time is it?”

“No,” a soft voice said, “you’re safe now. You’re with Jake. It’s about an hour after dawn.”

“Jake….?” Amari asked, groggy. She slowly sat up, rubbing her eyes as she yawned. “Oh, that’s right. Brother isn’t home from his trip. I’m sorry you woke before me.” She unfurled herself from Jake and from the covers. She arched her back, and it wasn’t till she finally fully opened her eyes that she realized she was not in her bed.

Amari’s eyes sprung open at the unfamiliar surrounding, the rows of bunk beds, the overall mess, and the distinct woody smell that filled the air. Her heart ached as it beat heavily against her chest. where am I!? She scrambled back, away from Jake, her back pressed against the frame of the bed. Green and gold eyes wide with fear. “W-where am I!? What did you do!?” Amari asked, clearly afraid of the half-elf.

Jake’s face crumpled in concern. “You don’t remember…” he breathed. “Amari, last night your brother tried to kill you. He injected you with something-” he fumbled in his pocket and showed her the syringe. “It made you completely open to suggestion. I had to bring you here, to the Bandit Brotherhood hideout, to keep you safe.”

Jake had been so kind...energetic and thoughtful. Why would he lie like this? Amari didn’t understand. She pressed herself further into the wall, clambering to gather what blankets she could to hide herself in them. “Y-you lie!” She stuttered. “Brother is away on business!” Amari could feel her eyes begin to burn as she blinked away tears, “Last I remember...you wanted to talk about him and a book! Now I’m here….why don’t I remember? Did you drug me!? A-Are you going to hold me for ransom?” Amari shook her head, and buried it into the blanket, her voice muffled. I would...I would have given you any riches you wanted… just take me home.. Please….”

“What?” Jake exclaimed. “No! I told you, your brother drugged you when he came home early. He came in before I could tell you about his journal. I read about the things he’s done to you… and the things he planned to do. But you’re safe here Amari. I’m not after your gold and I won’t let anyone hurt you. Maybe if we find out what’s in this syringe, we can see about getting your memories back…” he trailed off, looking at the needle in his hands. “You don’t trust me, do you?”

How could she? How could she trust him? Amari had no memories of what he claimed, and her brother had always been kind, he was the only kind person Amari had ever met. Amari thought Jake was kind, but he had taken her to this strange place. His voice ached with a sadness Amari wanted to fix, but she was afraid. If only I could get out of here… Her eyes glanced from the syringe to the door on the far side of the wall. She just had to make a run for it.

“Jake…” Amari unfurled herself from the blanket and crawled over toward him. I have to be careful… she stared at the needle in his hand, afraid he’d use it on her. “I-I want to believe you…” That part was true, Amari didn’t want to think Jake was lying, even if his words meant her brother wasn’t the man she thought he was. “Maybe… we could talk about it?” She asked as she sat next to him, swinging her feet off the bed, she kept her distance, away from him and the needle. “Why….would brother want me dead?”

“He said something about… if you couldn’t be the perfect doll he wanted, he didn’t want you at all. He ordered you to throw yourself on my sword, Amari. I only just got you away.” Jake noticed the syringe was making her uneasy and pocketed it.


Amari stilled herself, her body becoming tense at his words. They sounded familiar. “His doll…” She lowered her gaze to the floor. “That was brothers nickname for me, how would you know that?” She furrowed her brow. Things didn’t make sense, they didn’t add up.

“I read it in his journal, and I heard him say it,” Jake said, “he wanted to… own you. He wanted to use you in ways that don’t bear thinking about.”

Amari squirmed, she forced her eyes shut and could feel hot tears streaming down her face. She made no effort to wipe them away. “I can’t…” Her words came out as a whisper. “I c-can’t…..” Her words became louder, shaken by her own fear fuelled adrenaline. Amari shook her head, “I can’t believe you!” She finally said as she kicked herself off the bed and made a run for the door.

She had to be close right? If she could just make it outside….

Amari’s shaky hands struggled to turn the smooth doorknob, she finally managed to open it and yanked it hard, stumbling forward through the door. There, she came into a long hallway with windows that let in red rays of morning light. She could see an external door ahead, and ran toward it, her footsteps slapping against the hardwood floor. She burst through the door, breathing heavily.

I must be almost out…. I must be…. I must… Amari didn’t look back to see if Jake was following, she was afraid, and she was driven to find her way out.

The sunlight blinded her for a moment, and as her vision returned her hope collapsed. She was in some sort of courtyard surrounded by tall wooden walls with ramparts. There were guards with bows by the guates and on the walls. She was trapped. Amari collapsed to her knees, then to her hands.

It was hopeless...She wasn’t sure she was even in Salvar anymore.

“Amari, come back!” Jake raced after the Salvic lass, his boots thudding on the oaken floorboards. He followed her outside and found her on all fours in the lush green grass of the Bandit Brotherhood’s courtyard. Jake had passed many a fine hour training in the sun there, sweating amongst the other hoods. It was a place of joy and freedom to him, so it seemed so strange to see his friend weeping openly there.

“Amari…” Jake knelt nearby, not making any effort to approach her. “You’re safe here, I promise. If you want to leave the fort you can… just let me come with you. You’d get lost. We’re in the middle of the forest Concordia.” He gestured at the thick leafy treetops visible beyond the high walls.

She barely lifted her head, she pressed herself further into the ground. Jake looked on helplessly as he noticed the grass around her seem to grow and shift toward her shivering form. The leafy blades lightly dancing against her skin. Her only other response was a whimper.

“What can I do, Amari?” The half elf asked. “How can I prove to you that all I say is true?”

“I- I don’t know...I’m scared.” She said, voice barely above a whisper. “I want to trust you.” The grass began to wrap around her legs, Amari either didn’t notice, or wasn’t bothered by it.

“Would you feel better outside the walls?” Jake asked. He’d have preferred to keep her within the hideout’s safety, but he was desperate to calm the girl down. “I could take you for a walk to the nearest village. It’s a pleasant place.” She nodded, and pulled the jacket further over her ill-dressed form. Jake grinned. “I’ll steal a few coins and buy you some new clothing. How does that sound?” She gave another small nod and lifted herself up and away from the ground, the grass that had surrounded her body relaxed and pulled free from her.

Jake led her to the hideout’s main gate, exchanging a few words with the guards there.

They opened the guardhouse and let the drawbridge down. The long trakym gate lowered until it spanned the moat which surrounded the fort. Jake gently took Amari’s hand and led her to the other side, and then whistled. With a groan of ropes and pulleys, the drawbridge reascended, and they were alone in the woods.

“This way,” Jake said, following a familiar game trail. He noted the faraway look in the Salvic girl’s eyes and made an effort to engage her. “I’m sure you could find work at an inn or a tavern, if you’d like,” he said, “that’s after we’ve got some coin and some food, and you’re properly dressed. You’re an excellent cook.” He patted his belly, recalling the delightful meal she’d shared. “Who taught you your way round a kitchen?” Jake moved ahead of Amari, parting branches for her and pointing out roots that intruded on the trail.

“Myself…” She said, her cheeks flushed as she shifted her gaze away from him. “I-I taught myself.”

“The village we’re headed for is called Aradine,” Jake explained as they wound their way around trees and shrubberies. “I’ve stolen some fantastic horses there, including my own steed, Gunner, back when he was a yearling.” Jake pointed as plumes of smoke from the town came into sight in the distance. “Look! We’re almost there!”

The heat from his hand enclosed over hers seeped deep into her skin and prickled up her arm. It wasn’t unwelcome, but it was slightly uncomfortable. He spoke as though she were to live here with them. “Jake…” He didn’t hear her, he went on about horses and steeds. “Jake!”

He turned to look at her, he glanced down at their hands and he quickly let hers go. “Sorry!”

Amari shook her head, “Jake… You speak as though this is intended to be my home, but I have a home. I have a family. I - “ She paused as the half-elf interrupted her and shifted her vision away from him with a pointed finger. In the distance there was a small town upon the horizon. Surrounded by trees there were countless coloured rooftops, plumes of smoke wafted up into the clear sunny skies. “Aradine…?” She questioned, “I have never left my family estate before.” She admitted, before, Amari thought it a normal thing, but seeing the town below, so filled with signs of life - she began to wonder what exactly she had been shut away from.

“Never been off the estate?” Jake repeated. “Well then, we’ll have to celebrate! Just as soon as I get my hands on some coin… it will be easy, with you as a distraction. Redheads aren’t so common in Corone, and well…” he trailed off.

Amari instinctively pulled on her hair, “Brother said the same thing about Salvar…” Concern laced her voice. “Is there… something wrong with me?” she asked. “Is that why father was so aloof, and never allowed me to meet others?” Amari had to remind herself that she couldn’t trust this youth. He had taken her away from her home, and spoke of thievery and looting like it was nothing. Still, her curiosity got the better of her.

“What? No, Amari there’s nothing wrong with you. I don’t know why your father treated you as he did, but I’m sure it had to do with him, not you. And before… all I was going to say is that you’re particularly beautiful. You’ll be turning mens’ heads in Aradine, for certain.”

Amari offered Jake a wry smile, his words were sweet but they made her feel homesick. “Brother said the same thing.” Amari turned away from Jake as they headed into town. Amari became painfully aware of how little she wore, and of the lack of footwear she wore. She could feel the dirty ground, and the smaller rocks pinched her skin. “J-Jake.... People are staring.”

“I know, I’m sorry,” Jake said, “just keep walking toward that store. I’ll meet you there.” He nodded at a shop front several buildings down which displayed clothing and footwear, and then stepped away from her side and disappeared into the crowd.

Amari felt a sudden feeling of alarm wash over her as he slipped away from her and disappeared, she tried looking for him but had no sight of him.

“Miss, are you alright?”

A man had stopped in front of her, a look of concern on his features. “You look…” His steel blue eyes glanced up and down her form. “Out of place. No shoes, no real….clothing.” He stepped in closer, as though observing her pale features. “You look like you fell out of bed.”

“I-I’m Amari!” Amari said as she quickly bowed, “Pleasure to meet you, I ah…” She pointed to the store Jake had told her to head to. “I need to go there.”

The man blinked and looked over his shoulder at the small shop. “Ah! Restchilds!” He offered her a playful grin. “I can see why. You could certainly use some of their wares.” He returned her introduction with one of his own. “I am Noel. I am from Ettimere but am passing through here. Pleasure to meet you miss Amari. Would you like me to escort you there?”

Amari hesitated, taking a step away from the man. She wasn’t sure how she felt about it, he seemed nice enough, but so did Jake...and Jake had taken her away from her home. “A-Alright...but … can you tell me how far away we are from Salvar?”

Noel blinked in confusion. “Salvar? It’s across the ocean. A weeks travel at least, is that where you’re from?” The two began to walk toward the store, and the crowd parted for them. Noel was at least two heads taller than her, his long black hair tied neatly in a low ponytail behind him. He was well toned, with muscular arms. “It’s further than Ettimere that’s for sure. You from there?”

Amari gave a small nod, keeping pace behind him. “Y-yeh… I was hoping to go back...but I…” She paused as he stepped in front of her to open the door to the shop. A small bell chimed. She gave the man a confused look before stepping on through.

“Nothing good in Salvar, Miss Amari. But if you wish to return home, I may be able to be of some assistance.”

Jake had known that one of the men in the crowd would approach Amari - she was like a lodestone surrounded by iron filings. Of course, that man wasn’t Jake’s target. He would be too obvious. Instead, the half elf angled his way towards a middle-aged gentleman with grey in his hair, who was watching the unlikely pair walk toward the clothing shop. No doubt, he was fantasizing what it would have been like to be in the tall, dark haired man’s shoes, to be the one swooping in to save the damsel in distress.

Jake snuck up behind the salt-and-pepper fellow, cast a furtive glance around, and cut the leather strings tying the man’s purse to his belt. The coin pouch fell into Jake’s waiting pocket, and the half elf scurried away, looping in the opposite direction around the block. Not until he was halfway ‘round the block did the cries of thief! begin to echo. Jake circled around and came at the clothing shop from the opposite direction.

Dang it, Amari, you weren’t supposed to ACCEPT his company. He watched the redhead enter the shop alongside her new friend. Jake hastened in after them, a bell chiming above his head.

“Amari!” He exclaimed as if just finding her. “There you are! Let’s get you some clothes.” He nodded to the tall fellow with the ponytail. “Thanks for your assistance sir, I’m sure my friend looked a little lost.”

“I think that an understatement.” The man said evenly as he glanced at the girl, genuine concern etched on his features. “Miss Amari, this boy is your friend?” Amari nodded and the man loosened his tense stance. He turned his steel blue eyes back toward Jake. “My name is Noel.” He held his hand out to Jake.

“Jake Narmolanya,” the half elf replied. Noel had a firm grip that went with his gaze and personality. He probably fancies himself quite the white knight, Jake thought as he released the man’s hand. “Amari, pick out whatever suits you, and then we’ll get something to eat.”

Noel gave a small nod. “Miss Amari, remember what I said. I’ll be in town for another 3 days.” He gave both her and Jake a wave before turning to leave the store. Amari waved goodbye to him before turning back to Jake.

“I...uh. I pick?” She asked, a little startled at the realisation she had a choice. “Brother always had my clothes picked out for me.”

“Well I don’t know much about womens’ clothing,” Jake said, his ears heating up somewhat, “why don’t we start with a pair of shoes? Or some good boots.”

Amari pursed her lips and went about the store, picking out clothing for herself. She settled on black boots, a red dress that was a few shades lighter than her hair, with long sleeves and a emerald green cloak. The cashier, an older woman had gone into the back room with Amari, where they fitted her for undergarments a second pair were placed discreetly in a brown paper bag atop the pile of clothing sitting on the front counter.

“Are you sure this is ok?” Amari asked.

“Of course, you look great. Very Coronian.” Jake paid the woman behind the counter. The total lightened the purse in his pocket considerably, but he still had more than enough to get them a good meal. “Are you hungry?” He asked as they left the shop.

“No.” She said.

The sounds of her stomach said otherwise.

“Come on,” Jake laughed, taking her hand and leading her toward a particular in. “This place has wonderful hotcakes.”

The same heated sensation coursed through her body as he grabbed her hand and Amari shifted uncomfortably. “I don’t know what hotcakes are.” She mumbled, trying to pull away from his energetic grasp, to no avail. “Jake… we need to talk… I can’t-”

“Hotcakes are amazing Amari! You will love them.”

Amari gave a defeated sigh as Jake pulled her into yet another establishment, this one more crowded than the small store. He lead her to a booth in the corner, where the two sat down on red cushioned chairs, before she could open her mouth to speak Jake signalled one of the staff over. A blonde girl who couldn’t be any older than Amari. Jake asked for two of ‘the usual’ the girl thanked him by name and offered him a wink and a squeeze of his shoulder.

“Do… you know her?” Amari asked curiously.

“I’ve been by this way a few times before,” Jake said with a smile.

Amari shifted her gaze down to the table. The town seemed nice enough, and Jake earnest enough. Still, things weren’t adding up. “I want to go home.” Amari said with finality as she lifted her gaze to meet Jake. “I want to see the truth myself.”

Jake nodded. “I can take you home, if that’s what you really want. But I have another suggestion that might prove the truth to you. And we may as well at least get something to eat first. Is that fair?”

Amari blinked. It was that easy? To just ask….?

“Yes! Of course!” She said, straightening her back. She had the answer she wanted, she had a promise and all she could do now was accept Jake’s word, and agree to his request, it was only fair. She glanced back down at the table again, feeling confused at the lack of cutlery. Instead of asking where the others were Amari felt she had to make do with what she had. “What was your suggestion?” She asked, daintily preparing the table for the meal, shuffling the silverware to their correct positions.

“That syringe still had some of the serum your brother injected you with in it.” Jake said. “I know someone who knows a good alchemist in Akashima. If we took the serum to him, maybe he could find a way to bring your memories back. Then you wouldn’t want to go home, I promise you.”

“I’ve ….never heard of those places. How long would it all take? I have...I have to go home soon Jake. My family would be worried about me. Brother and Father are due to return home in two days.”

“Anywhere you need to be is only a step away, when you’re with me.” Jake grinned. “After we eat, I’ll portal us to Akashima. If we’re lucky, we might be able to see the alchemist in a few hours.”

Amari nodded, she opened her mouth to ask another question but before she could continue, the young girl returned, placing a tray of ‘hotcakes’ in front of both Amari and Jake. Amari noticed Jakes had more strawberries and cream than her own. “To remind you of last time.” The girl said to Jake with an extra wink as she left, virtually ignoring Amari.

Amari found it curious, and wondered if he really liked strawberries. If he did, and he were telling the truth, she’d have to make him something to say thank you. Amari turned to Jake, waiting for him to eat first, his ears and face were flush with red. “Are you alright?” She asked.

“Just hungry,” Jake muttered, and took a big bite of hotcakes.

As he cut into his own meal, Amari followed suit. Quietly eating. Not once did her knife or fork scrape the plate, nor did she spill any food. Her noble upbringing shining through in the simple act of eating. Amari enjoyed the meal, every so often she’d pause to compliment it and Jake, for his choice. When finished Amari set the cutlery down soundlessly. “Thank you Jake. I think I needed that.”

“Glad you’re feeling better,” Jake grinned, “I find Aradine is always good for a pick-me-up.” The half elf had eaten like a wolf, in stark contrast to Amari, leaving crumbs down his front and cream on his upper lip. The buxom serving girl came by to clear their dishes, and made a point of wiping the cream from Jake’s lip with her thumb, scooping it into her own mouth and smiling as she carried the plates and cutlery away.

Jake turned red and glance toward Amari, who simply sat, completely oblivious to the undertones and implications of the womans actions, he caught Amari’s gaze and turned his eyes down to his lap.

“She’s lovely.” Amari commented, “But I don’t think she likes me very much.” Her voice held a tone of concern. “Did I do something to offend her? I am not aware of any customs in Corone.”

“What, Karen? No, you’re fine,” Jake said, mixing up his sentences, “I mean, she’s just shy towards new people. And really, really friendly once she gets to know you.” He tugged at the black silk scarf he wore around his neck.

“Oh.” Amari seemed relieved. “I am glad I did not offend her.” She offered him a supportive smile. Taking his lie, hook line and sinker. “Are you sure you are ok? Did you need to rest before we head to Akashima?”

“Actually, a quick nap would do me a world of good.” Jake cast a concerned look at the redhead. “If you’re not in too much of a hurry?”

Amari glanced away, her smile faltering. She slowly shook her head as her gaze shifted from him, her tone was subdued. “If my male companion wishes to rest, I must oblige, and ensure he rests.” Amari stood, and stepped out from the table, pushing her chair in with narry a scrape against the wooden floorboard. “Shall we?” She asked.

“What kind of talk is that?” Jake asked. He scrubbed his dirty hands through tired eyes and raked his dirty blond locks. “Is that Salvic custom, or something your brother taught you?”

“Both brother and father ensued I knew all their needs were to be met, and taken care of before my own.” Amari frowned, her hands gripping the back of the chair. “Brother was very insistent on it. Does it bother you? Did you need me to fetch you anything before we leave?”

“Look, that’s not,” Jake frowned and stood up. People were beginning to watch them again. “Let’s just go, shall we?” He ushered her toward the door and held it for her. When they stepped outside they stepped into Akashima, their boots and shoes landing on the lush green grass that surrounded the Great Crystal Spire. Jake had spent many hours at the famous monument in the middle of the Capital City, memorizing the place well enough to portal there at any time.

“That might be how your brother and father treated you,” Jake said, finishing his thought from earlier, “but that’s not how your friends will treat you. Welcome to Akashima.”

Her eyes widened at the sight, and she took a few steps back. “I-I….” She struggled to find the right words to explain it. Rolling skies of blue, the sound of the rolling waves, the taste and smell of salt on the air. “Is that..the ocean?” Amari breathed, her eyes staring at the large crystalline spire that seemed to magically pierce the skye and cast a glimmering light on the surrounding town.

“W-wait…” She tore her eyes away from the scenery to rest on Jake. “You said you wished to nap? Do you plan to do so here?”

“I’m fine,” Jake said, although the dark circles under his eyes betrayed him. “Do you want to get a closer look at the water?”

Amari wanted to say yes, she wanted to explore this new place, even with her family waiting...she had two days till they returned home. Still… “Jake…” Amari stepped closer to him, her voice laced with concern as she reached out to brush his hair away from his eyes. “You sound tired. You never got to sleep the other night, did you?”

“I got a few winks here and there,” Jake said, putting on a brave smile that crumpled beneath her concern. “Alright Amari, look, let’s get to my friend Raff’s place. I can nap there, and I’m sure he’d take you to see the alchemist, if you like.” He patted the pocket containing the syringe with the bit of serum remaining.

Amari frowned, remembering the very real and very dire situation she was in. She was across the sea from Salvar...with a half elf she barely knew, who may or may not have drugged her and taken her against her will. “R-right.” Amari gave Jake a nod who wearily smiled back at her and began to lead her through the streets of Akashima.

As they passed by the various shops, and stalls the redheaded noble couldn’t help but notice something odd about some of the inhabitants. Fluffy ears. Tails. Fur. “Cats…?” She asked, confused. Did they have big bipedal pets here? Was that even possible? Some of them looked more human than others.

“Those are the Nekojin,” Jake explained, “try not to stare at them too much. They aren’t usually prickly about it, but you never know…” He gave one of the passing cat people a smile and a half-bow. “They’ve been in Akashima as long as anyone can remember.”

I want to pet one…

Amari had to duck out of the way of an extremely exuberant one, the girl looked more human than anything else, a short blue bob, blue ears and a tail, she came bounding down the street, laughing maniacally. “A-are they all….” She watched the blue headed catgirl leave a trail of chaos behind her. “So...energetic? Is your friend Raff one?” Amari covered her mouth, realizing her faux paux. “I am sorry…. Was that rude?”

“Don’t worry about it,” Jake laughed, “and no, Raff is an Akashiman human. You’ll like him, he’s very friendly.” The smell of fish grew strong as they progressed alongside a low wharf. The dwellings here were all ramshackle wood, stacked dangerously on top of one another up to five stories high. It both unnerved and excited Amari to see something so starkly different.

Down another street, and another corner, they came upon a tall rickety staircase, which they climbed to the top tier of the buildings. Jake stopped at a particular oaken door and knocked in a distinct pattern. A youthful male voice burst from within, followed by a small Akashiman boy.

“Jake! I didn’t expect to see you for another few months!” The boy nearly tackled Jake off the top of the swaying wooden construct, and the two wrestled along the dangerously creaking railing.

Amari’s heart beat fast against her chest. That’s it...Jake was going to get them killed. Him and this...this boy...they were going to knock her off the railing and she’d loose her footing and she’d… Amari turned pale an immedietly gripped the railing hard.

“Stop it!” Jake laughed, “Look, Raff, I brought a friend. This is Amari. Amari, this is my Akashiman brother, Rafael.” Amari gave him a nod, refusing to let go of the rails.

“Pleasure, to meet you…” She spoke, even with her trepidation it was clear she had a noble accent. She lowered her head again as a sign of respect to Rafael.

“Jake, why’d you bring a noble-lady to this neck of the woods?” Raff bowed low over the redhead’s hand. “Forgive me, milady, didn’t mean to startle you.”

“I-inside please..if you don’t mind!” Amari blurted out, then immedietly flushed and wished she hadn;t. Amari wasn’t afraid of heights… she had climbed the tree in the yard back home, but that tree was stable, and it felt safe. This didn’t feel like either of those two things. “Jake needs rest.” Amari added, hoping it’d coax the dark haired youth to let them into his abode.

“Oh, of course,” Raff exclaimed, almost tripping over his own feet to hold the door for her. “You’re welcome here, milady. Hope you don’t mind the mess too much…”

Amari nodded and stepped into the room. It was an understatement to call it ‘messy’ In the centre of the room sat a low table one would have to kneel to sit at. Upon further inspection there seemed to be a recess in the floor, so you could comfortably place your feet underneath it. There were crumbled up food packets strewn across the floor, in the corner sat a pile of dirtied clothes, and in another...dishes. Amari clenched her teeth and had to avoid the temptation to start tidying up. There were two other doors that lead to other rooms, one semed to be quite rowdy. “Thank you for your hospitality…” Amari quietly said as she carefully stepped between the trash and sat at the cleanest looking space at the table. She fiddled with her hands, waiting for both him and Jake to join her before she blurted out.

“Actually...I need help too. If you do not mind. Jake could quite possibly explain it far better than I can.” Amari turned to Jake, almost pleading for him to continue.

“Well, it’s not much of a happy story,” Jake said as Raff’s almond eyes turned toward him expectantly. “It starts off alright though. I was in Salvar trying to track down a demon, and I happened to meet Amari.” Jake blushed slightly and tugged at his scarf, omitting the part where he’d broken into the noblewoman’s house, intent on burglarizing it. “She invited me to dinner, and to spend the night… only, her brother came home unexpectedly. He flew into a rage and injected her with something-”

Jake pulled the syringe from his pocket and placed it delicately on the table. Amari visibly stiffened.

“-something that made her behave like one of the Mindless, and made her forget what happened. We only just got away. But like I said, she doesn’t remember what happened. I was thinking maybe-”

“The Warlock?” Raff interrupted, bending at the waist to take a closer look at the syringe. “I bet he could mix up an antivenom, if anyone could… but Jake, you know he’s-”

Jake pulled the purloined coinpurse from another pocket and plunked it down next to the syringe. “This should take care of it,” Jake said confidently. He yawned, his jaw cracking audibly, and shook his head. “My dire wolves are growling,” he said tiredly. “Would you mind taking her to see the old miser while I catch some winks?”

“Of course,” Raff smiled, “I’m just glad you caught me at home. I’m usually out… at work.” He smiled at Amari. “Is that alright with you, milady?” He picked up the syringe and the bag of gold, pocketing both.

She seemed uncomfortable with the idea, but gave a small complacent nod. “It will be fine. I do not see the reason for an antivenom, if I am no longer under its effects, but…” Her eyes shifted toward Jake. “I understand the need for one.”

“Take good care of her, Raff,” Jake said, stretching. He stood and disappeared through the door which led to the quieter room. Rafael perked up at a chance to be alone with the pretty high-born lady and, once again, stumbled on his path to holding the door for her.

“Don’t be afraid on the stairs, milady. I know they groan and sway, but they’ve been standing since before I was born.” The comment did not appear to assuage the girl’s concern, so he offered her his arm as they climbed down the rickety stairs.

Raff led the redhead west into the heart of the capital, where the buildings were made of stone and the streets smelled of baked goods cooling in windows rather than rotting fish guts. They came upon a particular estate surrounded by a wrought iron fence with an arched gate. Despite the obvious expense of the intricately designed three story house, the grounds were disheveled, and the windows all had black curtains hung behind them. It looked abandoned… except for the large half-orc standing guard at the gate.

“Ye’ wanna’ see The Warlock?” The half-orc asked as they approached. He put his right hand on the cudgel strapped to his belt, and his left hand in his pocket, jangling the coins there. “Pay us first, pretty boy and pretty girl.”

Raff pulled two thick golden coins out of the pouch in his pocket and offered them to the guard, who scooped them up and added them to his collection.

“G’wan then,” he said, unlatching the gate for them, “he ain’t busy today.”

The Akashiman boy felt as if he was pulling the Salvic girl down the walkway, but she came willingly enough. Her small and dainty hand felt warm in his grip. They made it to the expansive double doors, and then Raff reached out and lifted the large brass knocker.

“Lucky for us, he’s having a slow day,” he said with a smile.

Amari offered Rafael a small smile in return. He was much more energetic than Jake, which was a cause for concern in and of itself. He was lean, thin arms and legs, the woman wondered if he ate enough and part of her wanted to take him back to her home to give him a good meal. When she voiced as such Rafael laughed at her, and called her sweet. Was it really such an odd thing to want to look after those you met?

It mattered not to Amari, therein lay the second problem. Her home. Jake was adamant that she not return home, that her brother was a cruel and vindictive man, that he had done horrible things to her that she just did not know, and that was the reason they had come to this place. To restore her memories.

As they passed the initial gate they were brought into an immaculate and simple waiting room. There was a pine table and chairs in the center, bare walls and a pristine fireplace on the far wall. So spotless it looked as though it had never been used.

“Too clean…” Rafael mumbled as he took a seat at the table, screeching the chair loudly against the polished floorboards.

“I like it.” Amari mused as she carefully pulled her own chair out and pulled it in again soundlessly. “I feel you should learn a lesson from this. Your place would be much nicer without the mess.”

Rafael laughed, scratching the back of his head. “Maybe, but it feels more like home that way, yanno? I mean, don’t you feel the same?”

Amari offered him a small smile. “Yeh.” It was a white lie. She could see his sentiment, but never felt such things in her own home. She had very few possessions to call her own.

The door on the far wall creaked open and out stepped a man with an angular clean shaven face. He wore a pristine black pressed suit and white gloves. His narrow brown eyes fell on the two before him and he sighed. “I was enjoying a lovely cup of Jasmine tea, and am interrupted by a…” He paused as he eyed Rafael. “Street urchin and a…” He eyed Amari. “Coronian waif?” He shook his head. “Fine. Fine. I am Richard. To what do I owe the pleasure?”

Amari gave him a short bow of her head, introducing herself. “We apologise for the intrusion. My name is Amari L’Olfsden I-”

The man’s eyes lit up. “Salvar. Nobles. Quite wealthy if I may add...I’ve done business with your family before. Your brother is a well paying client of mine.” A crude smile fell upon his lips as he sat himself at the head of the table, he put his elbows on the surface and placed his face in the palm of his hand. “I have a faint idea, but I must ask. What brings you to my doorstep Amari?”

“Wait,” Raff goggled, “you know her?”

“Of her…” Richard mused. His eyes on Amari. “Well, why are you here?”


Amari fidgeted, biting her lower lip. She wasn’t entirely sure how to answer the man. Rafael had the syringe, and she was nervous, “I uh-”

“Did Lamont send you?”

Amari visibly stiffened at the mention of her brothers name, and she practically shrank back into her chair, she glanced over to Rafael with pleading eyes, willing him to help her explain.

“She’s in need of your help,” Raff said, pulling the syringe and bag of gold Jake had given him out of his pockets. “She was injected with this, and lost her memory of last night.” He passed the syringe to the alchemist. “If you can get it back…” he tossed the coin pouch meaningfully from hand to hand.

Richard stood. “Loss of will….” He circled over toward Rafael and picked both the coin purse and the needle deftly from his hands, grimacing at how dirty Richard was. “Complete suggestive control over her…” He stopped behind Amari. “And the insurance of no repurcussions. No memory.” He placed a hand upon Amari’s shoulder.

“Observe.”

“What!? St-” Amari felt a pinprick in her neck, as Richard injected the remnants of the needle into her. Her eyes glassed over and she slumped forward. “This small amount won’t last long, an hour at best. If she keeps her physical activity to a minimum. Now. Urchin. I can do what you ask, but I have to confirm. Is that what you really want.”

Richard gestured toward the lifeless girl before him. “Her brother has been a client of mine for the last four years. In that time he has bought countless amounts. I’m not one to question what he does with them, but he always speaks fondly of Amari here. Restoring her memories may have a detrimental impact. Do you wish for me to proceed?”

Raff dry-washed his hands. “Did you have to do that to her?” He asked nervously. “Is she going to be okay?”

“I enjoy seeing my work in effect. She’ll be fine, so long as neither of us order her to do anything life threatening.” Richard gave Amari a small pat on the head. “I’m not fond of human interaction. It’s too dirty for my tastes. I will not repeat myself. Do you want me to restore her memories?”

“Y-yes.” Raff stammered, frowning down at Amari’s lifeless form. “She needs to remember.”

“Very well. Give me 10 minutes. Stay here. Do what you will.” Richard offered Rafael a smirk as he took the bag of gold and syringe with him into the next room, the door gently closing behind him.

Jake rolled over in his slumber and nearly pitched off the narrow bed, awakening with a start. He re-adjusted to the strange sounds and smells of Raff’s house. He yawned and stretched and wandered back through the dining room and outside.

The wooden walkway swayed slightly in the stiff, fish-smelling breeze coming off the water, but the sun had barely budged in the sky. Although he felt quite restored, Jake realized that he had not slept for long. Perhaps half of an hour at most. He eased the silk scarf around his neck and plucked at the sweaty collar of his sifan shirt.

“Hey, Jake!” A voice called from inside. It was one of Raff’s housemates, and partners in crime. The small neko girl waved. Might be a good thing Amari didn’t run into her. The half elf considered.

“Hello,” Jake said, waving back. He didn’t think he’d ever met the little catgirl before, but his reputation did precede him in certain places.

“We’re about to go steal some horses and ride down to Yanbo Harbor. There’s a big fight at the arena there. Someone called the Breaker is matched up against the only red belt in Akashima!”

Jake perked up at the idea, but had a feeling that he should head after Raff and Amari. He felt slightly guilty for letting the girl go off alone with the boy she’d just met, but he trusted Raff completely. All the same…

“I better not,” Jake said, leaning on the creaking railing, “I’m bound for the Warlock’s.”

“Suit yourself!” The neko girl said. In short order she and a procession of seven other youngsters exited the residence, the wooden walkway bowing beneath their weight as they made their way down the stairs.

Jake thought about portaling directly to the alchemist’s yard, but decided against it. The man’s security did not fancy suddenly appearing half elves, and he could use the exercise, anyway. Jake climbed down the creaking stairs and made this way through the bustling capital toward the Warlock’s estate.

“Here.” Richard handed Rafael a small metallic box. Rafael opened it to find a needle nestled inside velvet casing. “I’d rather you not do so here, she will create a racket. Go out into the street for all I care. This will allow her to remember, but as to how quickly the memories will resurface and to what extent it will affect her mental state, I do not know.” He waved Rafael off. “We’re done here.”

“W-what?” Raff said, looking at Amari’s unresponsive face. “You mean you’re not going to…?”

“Why would I? You paid for an antidote, not for me to administer it and deal with the consequences. Just ask her to quietly follow you to whatever hovel you crawled out from. Now, leave.”

“Amari, come with me,” Raff said, taking the redhead’s hand. He shot the alchemist a poisonous look as he led her out of the room. Amari obediently followed. Gripping his hand tight as they left the Warlocks estate and headed hand in hand back toward Rafael’s home.

Along the way, they bumped into Jake.

“Raff, what did you do to her?” Jake gasped as he saw Amari’s familiar slack-eyed gaze.

“It wasn’t me!” The Akashiman boy exclaimed. “The Warlock injected her with whatever was left in that syringe, before I could stop him. But he gave me the antivenom you’re after.” He patted his pocket. “C’mon, let’s just get her home.”

“I think the Warlock and I need a reckoning,” Jake growled, but he fell into step on Amari’s other side, concern for the redhead plainly displayed on his face.

“He made the serum too. He admitted to doing so, and warned us against letting her remember.” Rafael commented as they climbed the shaky wooden stairs to his home. Rafael pushed open the door. “At least it’s quiet and we appear to be alone.” He fished around in his pocket and pulled out the metallic box, giving it to Jake. “Here.”

The half elf gave the metal box a quizzical look, and then opened it and pulled the small syringe out. “Will this bring her memories back?” He asked.

“The Warlock said it would,” was Raff’s reply.

“The Warlock,” Jake grumbled, but he approached Amari and gently cupped her cheek with his free hand. “Hold still, Amari,” he said. His fingers found the large vein in her neck, and he carefully injected the serum.

Amari’s eyes widened then dilated as tears brimmed then fell freely down her cheeks, pained waterfalls that were only a minute sign of the trouble dwelling within her mind. Her hands shook as she fell to her knees. Just the first memory… it was painful, she wanted it to stop but they kept coming. They started in slow trickles, horrendous instances where she was used and violated, over and over by her brother. She had even been sent into the animal nursery she adored, and was ordered to kill all the small animals and creatures, she recalled the feeling of their fuzzy lifeless forms between her bloodied hands, their squeals...and her brothers ever present smirk. Over and over again, she was used. Over and over again, she was nothing… nothing more than a tool. Her brother adored her, he loved her, but not in the way she expected.

Jake was right.

Amari meant nothing to her brother. She meant nothing to her father. Her whole life he was doing nothing more than prepping her to be his perfect doll. She visibly shivered as she wrapped her arms around herself. Her eyes finally clearing after a gruelling hour of the torture.

Her throat felt hoarse and dry, had she been screaming? Amari didn’t know. She lowered her gaze to the floor. Remaining silent.

“Amari?” Jake said tentatively, “are you alright?” He’d thought the serum would restore her memories of the previous night. Hadn’t realized it might stir up more than that. Didn’t think about the pain it might bring her. He’d been desperate to convince the highborn girl to stay away from her abusive family… and it seemed it had worked. But at what cost?

She shook her head slowly, her hands reaching for her hair, pulling tightly on it. Her eyes wild and wide as tears pooled and trickled down her cheeks, her eyes didn’t leave the floor and she seemed to shy away.

Jake exchanged a long glance with Raff, who stood up. “I’ll fix us some tea,” he said, and moved into the kitchen, pushing the door shut behind him. The half elf bit his lip. He reached out to touch Amari’s shoulder comfortingly, and then hesitated and pulled his hand back.

“What… what happened?” He asked at last. “Did you remember?”

She nodded, and a single haunting sentence left her lips. “I’m nothing but a doll.” She sounded so wounded, so defeated.

“No you’re not,” Jake said, a little more forcefully than he intended. Emotion weighed heavy on his voice. “You’re my friend, Amari. And you’re Raff’s friend. You can have a whole new life, here on Corone. A happy life.” She didn’t move, she barely acknowledged his words. Her tight grip around herself loosened, ever so slightly and a long sigh escaped her lips. Jake reached out a tentative hand and touched her shoulder lightly. “I know it must be scary,” he said, “but you’re safe with me.”

She tensed, but just as quickly as she did, her form loosened and she fell forward, her forehead hitting his shoulder. “I don’t...I don’t…” She failed to continue her sentence and her words fell into silence.

“It’s okay,” Jake said, putting his arms around her and squeezing gently. “You don’t have to say anything. Just breathe.” The kettle whistled sharply from the other room, and then cut out as Raff lifted it off the stove.

Her breathing grew heavy and she shifted awkwardly, leaning further into Jake’s form. The aroma of spiced tea surrounded them as Raff came out of the kitchen carrying a tray with three steaming mugs. Seeing the awkward embrace, he set the tray on the table, picked up his own mug, and ducked back into the kitchen.

Jake rubbed Amari’s back in slow circles, his eyes closed, chin rested on the top of her head. Once he got an idea in his head, the half elf could be as dogged as a dire wolf. And he was determined to see the redhead smile again, the way she’d smiled when he’d been an uninvited guest in her home in Salvar.

A few months had passed, it had been a difficult and trying time. They shifted between Akashima and Corone. Amari struggled to handle the bandit hideout in the beginning, all the extra men unnerved her and her nightmarish screaming kept the men up at nights. She spent most of the first month in Akashima, huddled up in the corner of Rafael’s lounge room. The people there left her alone, only stopping by to leave food and drink, which mostly remained untouched. Amari grew skinny, dangerously so, malnourished even.

She barely spoke, only offering small words or answers to Jake’s questions. He tried to coax things out of her, but every time Amari drew close to explaining what her brother Lamont had put her through, she’d recoil further into her dark world, nasea wracking her body.

Jake found that she was her calmest in the forest, despite the dangers of the surrounding area, he took the noblewomen out there, more often than not - and at her feeble request, would leave her alone.

Amari found that she had strange abilities, animals loved her and she was able to quell the forest creatures, even an angry bear that tried to storm the stronghold. (Of which she named ‘Chad’) Trees and flora flourished around her, and it slowly helped her open up once again. She felt….not entirely safe, nor content, but she felt that maybe, just maybe, she cold slowly recuperate from the horrors she had faced.

*~*~*~*~*

It was late afternoon, and well into summer. Amari lay atop a content and snoozing bear, in the middle of the forest. A ten minute stroll from the fortress. Here she felt….somewhat safe, and protected. Chad had been a reliant companion to her, and Amari adored the beasts company above all else.

Amari herself yawned, rolling onto her stomach. She wasn’t used to such hot weather. Her long hair was pulled up into a high ponytail, flyaways framed her face and shoulders. She wore a loose white cotton shirt, and black shorts, her feet were bare, and dirtied from wandering around barefoot. Her skin did not take to the sunlight well and was heated, unbeknownst to her it had begun to burn.

“It’s so hot…” She muttered. “Probably doesn’t help that I’m sitting on you, eh Chad?” The bear, gave a low rumble and a huff in response. “You said it… “ Amari mumbled back as she pulled on her shirt, shaking it to try and air it out.

Chad grumbled and stood, shaking her off, Amari slid down his side and sat on the ground against the tree. He snorted in the direction of the compound. Amari frowned, feeling herself tense up. “Is someone coming?”

Jake traipsed out of the bushes, brushing burrs from his sifan finery. The half elf froze when he saw the massive bear and put a hand in his pocket.

“Amari, be careful,” he said in a low, even voice, “back away from that thing slowly…”

“No.” Amari said as she stood and padded over to the brown bear, Chad’s fur bristled at the newcomer. “You’re scaring him… “ Amari muttered as she tenderly began to stroke the beast. Chad lifted his head and shoved it into Amari’s side, snorting. A small smile crept to her lips at the cool wet sensation of his snout. “He’s not hurting anyone.” Amari gently scratched the space between the bears eyes, her voice low. “He doesn’t have any plans, he doesn’t lie….he’s just...Chad…”

Jake slowly withdrew his hand and splayed his palms. He took a step backwards.

“I wanted to talk to you about something.” His green eyes never left the bear. “Could we take a little walk… alone?”

Amari wasn’t so sure she liked the idea of being alone...with anyone, any person anyway. She still had trust issues and grew anxious when she was alone with people for extended periods of time. She hated it about herself, and wished that circumstances were different, that she were stronger and able to face things. She looked from Jake to Chad who was disinterested. “I...suppose…” The redheaded noble pulled away from the bear and brushed herself off. Chad made a dissatisfied sound before heading away from the two, going to the stream to eat and no doubt cool off from the accursed heat.

Amari kicked at the ground with her bare foot, “What did you want to talk about?” She asked.

Jake’s posture opened up as the bear departed, and he gave Amari a friendly grin. “I’ve been thinking,” he said, stepping cautiously toward her. “You weren’t happy in Akashima, and living with the Bandit Brotherhood doesn’t seem to suit your much better. I need to go to Underwood for some… shopping. I wondered if you might like to come along and see the place. It’s a lovely little lumber town in the middle of Concordia… plenty of friendly people, and I’d wager you could find work at an inn if you wanted to. You’re an excellent cook.” His stomach growled at the mention of food.

Amari sighed. This again. She knew Jake was trying to look out for her, but she wasn’t sure she was ready for such a thing. “I...I don’t know…” Amari ran her hand up the length of a nearby tree. It comforted her. “I hate the heat here… but… I like the forest, and I like Chad. I feel like they’re the only things keeping me sane these days. I don’t want to lose that.”

As she spoke, the surrounding area responded to her, small saplings sprouted from the bark and the small tufts of grass that protruded from the twig strewn ground grew, and tickled her shins. “I don’t know how I can trust people again.”

“You can trust me,” Jake reminded her, “and we’ll still be in the middle of the forest. We can leave the town anytime you like, and return to the trees. Come on, Amari, let me buy you dinner. That way you’ll at least see the place, and we need to eat, in any case.”

Jake watched as she pulled away from the tree, he could have sworn he saw a faint golden glow trickle from her fingers and linger on the trunk. He blinked, and it was gone. She sighed and took a few tentative steps toward him, her hair up in a messy ponytail and feet dirtied from the ground, she looked oddly at peace in the forest.

“Alright. I shall go with you.” She offered him a faint smile. “You haven’t lied to me yet.”

Jake returned the smile and took Amari’s hand in his, and then an oaken doorway with a stone knob appeared from thin air beside them. Jake opened the door with a little bow and allowed Amari to walk through first.

They arrived on the forested fringe of Underwood, just as the bottom of the sun kissed the horizon of treetops. The steady chop of axes on solid trunks could be heard nearby; lumberjacks putting in a last effort before going home for the night.

Jake led Amari into the village. The fresh smells of the forest mingled with the aromas wafting from bakeries and inns, mingling to form a delicious concoction for their noses. Hawkers stood about on street corners, selling roasted meats and baubles. Goodwives swept off their front stoops, and common folk trudged around, on their way home from work. A couple of watchmen wearing cloaks and leather armor moved past, but they paid the Jake no mind. Fortunately, the thief was not known in Underwood.

Meandering through the hardpack streets, Jake pointed out several interesting locations. The Ravenheart Academy, with the grand statue of Letho Ravenheart out front. The great library, which was the best collection of books and scrolls inside Concordia. The Dansdel, and outdoor fighting arena where the mightiest warriors matched their skills. Eventually the tour took them past a particular inn with a help wanted sign in the window. The sign above its door said The Last Night’s Maiden.

“Fancy eating here?” Jake asked, sniffing the air. “Smells like they’re baking pot pies, unless I’m mistaken.”

“Sure...I do not want to be forced into work though Jake. Don’t get me wrong...I appreciate all you do, but I just… “ She seemed to struggle finding the right words. “I don’t like the idea of being tied down like that, my whole life I have been. It just, feels constricting thinking about it.”

“No one’s going to force you to do anything,” Jake said, somewhat hurt by her words. “I only thought… I thought a distraction might be good. And you’d make friends, and your own money, and have a place to feel like you belong… maybe it was a stupid idea. I’m sorry.” He cast his green eyes down and stared at his boots. “Can I still buy you dinner at least?”

She seemed to backtrack seeing she had upset him. “I-uhm..yes..Jake I’m sorry I didn’t mean to..” her words came out quickly, and stuttered as she tried to console and comfort him. “I’m not saying you make me feel that way, I just - you know… don’t you want to… I don’t know..explore?”

“Explore?” Jake opened the door to the inn, and the sounds of merriment wafted out along with the smells of good food and cheap ale. “Where would you like to explore? I’ve been most places, it’s all the same to me.” He led the way to an empty table near the back of the common room and pulled out a chair for the redhead to sit. She squirmed and glanced to his chair, the idea that she had to seat others first still ingrained into her head. She sat down after a few more seconds.

“I...I don’t know. I guess that’s kind of stupid of me to say, huh? I’m being ungrateful again.” Amari clasped her hands together in a sign of apology. “I am very sorry Jake. I know these past few months...I have been difficult.”

Jake sat across from her and placed a hand on top of hers. “You don’t need to apologize Amari. I’m grateful to have you in my life. You’ve lived through some terrible things… but that doesn’t need to define your future.” A serving girl with golden hair approached, and Jake ordered pot pies and house ale for both of them. The young woman gave them a friendly smile, which might have lingered on Jake a little longer, and then hurried back to the kitchen.

It did not go unnoticed by Amari, who quickly pulled her hands away from his and ducked them under the table.

“Maybe you’d like to visit the southern shores of Corone?” Jake suggested. “The climate is beautiful, and there’s nothing prettier than a sunset over Serenti. We could go pearl diving in the ocean.”

“Jake why do all the girls look at you like that, and ignore me?”

Jake blushed scarlet from the base of his neck to the tips of his pointed ears. “I dunno,” he mumbled, “one of them once told me I’m the cutest thing from Corone to Scara Brae. I think it’s the elven blood.” His blush deepened as he glanced up at the redhead. She tilted her head slightly, curiously staring at him.

“I do not understand the connection - is it….” She blinked in realisation and tore her eyes away from his. Her own cheeks reddening. She shifted in her seat. “I think I understand now.” her voice lowered. “They want what brother wants, right?”

“No!” Jake exclaimed, tugging at his silken scarf. “Amari, those are two entirely different things. What your brother wanted is wicked and cruel. What these women want is natural and… healthy.” He glanced toward the kitchen as the golden haired girl came back, carrying a foaming tankard for each of them. Jake took his and immediately downed half of the frothy brew, cooling the color in his cheeks.

“Is that why my hands and body feel hot when you touch them? The natural thing?”

“I…” Jake gulped, feeling sweat bead on the back of his neck. “It might be. I didn’t have time to read everything in your brother’s journal, but the sigils he placed on you might have something to do with it. I mean, you don’t want… that, do you?”

“That…?” She pointed to the ale, a little confused.

“No, that’s not what I meant.” Jake tried to look away but his eyes seemed magnetized to the pale skin visible beneath Amari’s top, and the way her auburn hair spilled around her shoulders. He took a deep breath, and then downed the better half of his ale. “You don’t want me to kiss you, do you Amari?”

Amari who had picked up the ale and was sniffing it jumped, sloshing the ale onto the table and herself. “KI-wha-ah….” She wasn’t able to answer. She looked down at herself, dripping with the liquid. “Oh no! How unbefitting of me!” She muttered as she tried to pat herself down. “This drink doesn’t smell very nice either.”

“Here,” Jake pulled a handkerchief from his pocket and made as if to dab at her, then thought better of it and passed her the cloth. “It’s not supposed to smell good. Or taste good, really. It has other redeeming qualities.”

“If something does not taste good I cannot fathom why anyone would drink it.” Amari said, distracted as she tried to clean herself but to no avail. “Jake. I need to change, do you think the inn would have anything?”

“We’ll just have to ask properly,” Jake said with a wink. When their server arrived with two steaming portions of pot pie, Jake stood up and slipped a coin into her palm, and whispered a few words in her ear. She nodded and scurried off, returning promptly with a folded cotton dress, which she passed to Amari.

“There you go dear,” the waitress said, “you can change in the private dining room. No one’s using it tonight.” She pointed to a door at the back of the room, and then hurried to the next table.

Amari took the dress and headed toward the room, flinching at a few of the comments that were thrown her way. None were entirely unpleasant, but she was not fond of the attention. She quickly changed into the dress, letting her hair down to cover her shoulders and folded her damp clothes. She didn’t want to leave them in the private room so returned to Jake and placed them under the table before sitting down.

“I am sorry for the interruption.” Amari picked up the half empty stein and passed it to Jake. “Here, I feel you would enjoy it far more than I. But, if I may ask...if it not taste nice why drink it, and so hastily?”

“Alcohol has a funny way with the mind. It makes me feel more confident, and at ease. Too much of it can be a terrible thing, but the occasional ale…” he picked up the proffered tankard and took a gulp. “Can really hit the spot. Would you like to try some Raiearan wine instead? Some folk who dislike ale seem to enjoy it.”

Wine. Now that was something Amari did enjoy. She smiled and gave him a nod. “Ah, yes. Thank you. I never thought about that. I usually had a glass of wine on occasion when Father and ...and…” She said the next word quietly. “Brother… were away, but it was only ever the small half glass. I do not think I felt such effects. It’d be nice to feel at ease.”

Jake waved the server over and ordered a glass of their finest wine. She curtsied and scampered away, clearly still thinking about the gold he’d given her. She returned shortly after and placed a glass of it in front of Amari, the glass was nearly full, and the liquid was a deep hue of red.

Amari glanced down at the table, the more she spoke with Jake, the more she realised just how clueless she was to everything. To how the world worked, to how people acted. She was 18 and she knew nothing. “Hey...Jake…” Amari began, picking up the wine glass that had just been placed in front of her. She twirled it slightly. “Can you teach me things?” She bought the glass to her lips and took a few sips. It was fragrant, and it tasted similar to what she had from home, perhaps the ones her family had were imported. This one had a more woody taste to it which was oddly sweet.

“I suppose,” Jake said, raising an eyebrow. “I don’t know that I’m much of a teacher, but I had a decent education. Some came from books, the rest from experience. You pick things up when you travel the globe hunting down demons.” He grinned and dug into his pie. “What did you want to learn?” He asked around a mouthful of pork and pastry.

“Everything.” Amari said as she drank more of the wine, imitating the way he drunk the ale. Ingesting it quickly caused a slight burn at the back of her throat but she ignored it, placing the empty glass soundlessly down on the table. “I want to learn how to interact with people like you do…” She paused, eating her own meal in much smaller portions, being sure to finish chewing and swallowing each bite before continuing. “I’ve realised that I am very….sheltered and know next to nothing. I can barely read nor write. Before you, and Raff... I had never seen another male before.” She took another few bites, “I don’t know any of these places you speak about. It’s why I wanted to explore, like you. You seem like a wise person.”

Jake blushed again, chewing until the color faded from his cheeks. “I wouldn’t call me wise, Amari… but I’ll gladly teach you whatever you can. You’re a highborn lady; it’s plain in your posture and the way you speak. Even the way you eat. If we get you some finer clothing, you’d truly look the part. Then most of the common folk would defer to you, and many men would become suitors, seeking your hand in marriage.” Jake shrugged awkwardly. “If that’s something you’d be interested in.”

Amari picked up her empty glass and swirled it around thoughtfully, “Mmm…” She felt a little flush, and her movements felt more fluid. Was this what Jake spoke about? “It’s not something I ever felt myself worthy of.” She rose her eyes to meet Jake’s green gaze, which flittered about the place, unable to focus on any one part of her. “You are very red.” She commented.

“You are very beautiful,” Jake replied, and then gulped another mouthful of ale. “And you’re certainly worthy of a good man, Amari. Any jack in Corone would consider himself lucky.”

His compliment stilled her actions, she stopped swirling the empty glass and barely even noticed the blonde girl come back and top it up again. Her chest felt a little constrained, did her heart skip a beat? Did it get warmer? “I uhm…” She shook her head quickly remembering her manners as she picked up the wine glass and held it out to him. “Thank you for your kind words, Jake.” She took another sip of the rich wine before placing it on the table to steady herself. “I must say, sometimes I feel those women are right, you are….” She paused, trying to find the least lewd way to put it. “Very nice to look at.”

Jake blushed to the tips of his ears. “As are you,” he mumbled, wiping his mouth on his sleeve as he finished his pie.

“Must you wipe your food on your sleeve?” Amari asked as she picked up her wine and continued to drink from it. He was right. She was definitely feeling more at ease. “Perhaps I should teach you some manners, it’s frightful to watch sometimes.” She took another long sip.

“Sorry,” Jake said, “I was taught proper conduct as a boy. Only… live with the Bandit Brotherhood a few years, and you develop a different set of table manners. Eating with them is like trying to share a deer carcass with a pack of wolves.” He sipped his ale, and then used the napkin provided to daintily wipe the foam from his lips. “See?” He said. “I promise I’ll make an effort when we’re together.”

Amari hid a small smile behind her hand as she covered her mouth. “Yes Jake, I see. Good job.” She set aside her empty plate and finished off the wine. “W-was there….” her brows furrowed as she tried to figure out the words, her head had grown more fuzzy. “Anything else you had planned this evening?”

“I thought we could take a tour of the town, and spend the night here? I’ve heard Underwood has the finest farmer’s market in the mornings. There’d be lots to see and learn. Would you fancy a stroll, milady?” He asked, mimicking Rafael’s Akashiman accent. He left a few coins on the table and then stood and offered her his arm. Amari stood, stumbling slightly as she reached out to grab hold of his arm.

They promenaded out the door and into the red-soaked streets of Underwood’s evening. The sounds of men cheering and shouting caught Jake’s attention, and he turned them toward the Dansdel fighting arena. Jake enjoyed watching fights - there was always a lesson to be taken from a swordsman’s form, whether he was great or terrible. But as they drew nearer, there was no sound of steel ringing on steel. Only the raucous cries of the crowd, and the heavy breathing from one of the combatants.

A large group of men, along with a sprinkling of women, surrounded the outdoor fighting arena. Some sat on wooden bleachers, while most stood in groups, leaning and stretching for a better vantage point.

“Come on,” Jake urged Amari, “this must be a good one!” He clutched her hand firmly and pushed between the tightly packed crowd, plowing a path to the front where the diminutive couple could see.

Two men circled in the ring, stripped to the waist and slicked by sweat. One of them had sharp Salvic features and a shaved pate, wielding a pair of curved shortswords that spun and flashed in the dying sun. The other carried no weapons, and no armor, and yet he moved with the lethal grace of a winging dragon. He had short brown hair, broad shoulders, and a white Y-shaped scar beneath his left eye.

“Go on then, Ferdinand!” Roared a nearby dwarf. “Skewer the damned fancy fucker!”

As if hearing the command, the bald man lunged forward, stabbing low at his opponent’s abdomen. The unarmed combatant moved like a guide whirlwind. His hands clapped together on the flat of the blade and twisted, sending the sword spinning to the ground. The Salvic man’s second blade came up, but a paralyzing strike to his shoulder forced nerveless fingers to drop it.

The martial artist shoved the swordsman back a pace, and then spun, his leg extending in a sweeping wheel kick. His black boot crashed into the other man’s skull with a strangely metallic sound, and the Salvarian crumpled to the ground, unconscious.

The shouts and jeers turned into wordless cheers as the crowd celebrated the victory. They chanted the word “Breaker” over and over again, and Jake blinked in surprise. Could this be the same prizefighter he’d heard about in Akashima?

“Rather amazing, wasn’t it?” Jake asked Amari, having to shout in her ear over the noise. “My old instructor always said an empty-handed man stood no chance against a swordsman.”

Amari gripped him tight, her pale cheeks flushed red. “A little barbaric… honestly…” She chided, her lips pursed in a disapproving pout.

Jake’s smile wilted. “I’m sorry… I didn’t mean to make you… you don’t ever have to watch another fight again. Only, do you mind if we stay here a bit longer? I’d like to pick this Breaker’s brain.”

“Just...stay close to me…” Amari mumbled, gripping his arm tighter, she had slurred her words a bit, and it seemed as though she were leaning on him for balance.

“I’m not going anywhere,” Jake said, patting the hands that encircled his arm like a vice. “Look, see, the crowd is already thinning.”

For a time the Breaker was surrounded by admiring fans, but then they left him alone and he turned to a nearby table. He picked up a towel and wiped the sweat from his torso, and then shrugged into a black shirt and buttoned it up the front. Jake approached the man tentatively from behind, the redhead still on his arm.

“Excuse me… Mr. Breaker?” Jake said nervously. The broad shouldered man turned swiftly, his hazel eyes taking them in at a glance, and widening as they fixated on the woman.

“Amari?” He said in an awed tone. “How can you be here?”

Amari didn’t like the fighting, but being up close to the man… he was intimidating, his presence extruded something the woman couldn’t quite put her finger on. His untamed hair stuck to his angled face and cheekbones, his hazel eyes bore into her. Two wide and twinkling orbs a mish mash of green and brown hues that reminded her of the forest. “I uh…” She felt her cheeks redden. Was this what Jake meant by handsome? She had to admit the man most definitely had that air about him.

“Yes?” She loosened her grip from Jake, only slightly. “How do you…. Know my name?”

“Ar’tuel,” the man breathed softly, “of course… so it’s not really you, is it? You wouldn’t remember me anyway. That was another man’s life, my memories are borrowed. But we have met before… long ago. Who’s your friend?” He asked, giving the half elf a cursory look.

Questions buzzed in Amari’s muddled brain. He knew her? How? Ar-what? She didn’t quite catch the word. She had all but let go of Jake now, stepping closer to Breaker, the mix of alcohol, the adrenaline of the fight and the curiosity creating an odd concoction that caused Amari’s inhibitions and concerns to all but disappear. “Met before? How? Why?”

She blinked and looked to Jake. “He’s my friend...he helped me get out of a very bad situation. His name is Jake.”

“Jake Narmolanya,” the half elf cut in, extending his hand. He clasped forearms with the tall warrior. “That was quite the show you put on, sir. Are you the same Breaker who fought for the red belt of Akashima?”

“And won,” Breaker grinned. “My name is Joshua Cronen. You may call me Josh, but most people just say Breaker.” His gaze drifted back to Amari. “Would you care to join me in my rooms for some refreshments? Both of you, of course.” He added, noticing Jake’s scowl.

The scowl went unnoticed by Amari she was too focused on the form of the man before her. Joshua Cronin...the name didn’t ring any bells, nor did he invoke any sense of familiarity. “That would be lovely.” Amari said as she began to follow Joshua. She turned to look over at Jake, offering him a small smile. “You said that the alcohol would make things better, and I think you’re right.” She whispered loudly to him. Unaware of how loud she was actually being, she continued, stumbling slightly. “Do you think every woman thinks Joshua is handshome too? Isn’t he?”

“Bloody probably,” Jake muttered, kicking the dirt with a leather boot. He took Amari’s arm again and they followed the prizefighter, who was grinning like a daft drakeling, through the darkening streets. He led them to the finest inn the city offered, a three story affair with stone walls and arched entryways. Breaker stopped at the front desk and asked to have a meal and a bottle of Yurik’s (whatever that was) sent to his rooms, and then led them up the stairs to the top floor. There he unlocked a suite and invited them inside.

Inside reminded Amari of the luxuries of home. Thick ornate rugs littered the floor, polished redwood furniture decorated the exterior, side tables with expensive lamps, chairs, and large cushioned seats by a roaring fireplace. Amari stepped in, breathing deep with her arms clasped over her chest, once again pulling away from Jake. The air was thick with the smell of citrus, it was pleasant and made Amari feel warm. Her eyes were drawn to the large oil paintings that were hung on the gold painted walls. They were scenic. “Are they...of Salvar?” She asked, turning to see a grinning Breaker and a not so grinning Jake.

Her smile fell. “Jake?” Was he alright? Wasn’t this what he wanted? To talk to Breaker away from the crowds? “Is everything alright?”

“Everything’s lovely,” Jake said, flashing her a weak smile. “This painting is a view from atop the walls of Knife’s Edge.” He pivoted and pointed at the next piece of artwork. “That one looks like the Red Forest of Raiaera. And this one…” he shrugged. “It’s the great palace of Scara Brae.”

“You’re quite knowledgeable, for one so young.” Breaker said, sitting on a cushioned chair next to a polished table top. “Please make yourselves comfortable.”

“I travel a lot,” Jake mumbled, but he sat down on one of the seats nearer the fire.

Amari didn’t catch the subtle nuance of Jake’s distaste, her bi-coloured eyes fell back onto the paintings. “I want to see them someday…” she breathed, slowly walking around the room to inspect each one closely. She turned her gaze to Joshua. “Joshua Cronin, correct?” He gave her a small nod. Amari gave him a gracious curtsey, “Thank you for your hospi-” only to trip and fall, losing her balance as the world around her spun. “Ah…” She held her head. “I”m sorry..”

“Here, Amari.” Jake leaped to his feet and guided the redhead to a chair next to his. “Maybe you had a bit too much wine… I did mention that too much alcohol can have a negative effect…” He sat them both down just as a knock permeated the door.

“Come,” Breaker called, and a short slender serving girl with dirty blonde hair came in. She carried a covered tray in one hand, and a sealed bottle in the other. The label read Yurik’s Firewhisky. She set both items on the table next to Breaker and then curtsied her way out, closing the door behind her.

“Here,” he prizefighter said. He lifted the lid off the platter, and a salvo of savoury smells mingled with the scent of woodsmoke. There was a whole cooked chicken, roasted potatoes and onions, and a half loaf of freshly baked bread. He broke the heel off the bread and crossed to Amari, offering her the crusty snack. “This should absorb some of the alcohol in your stomach. Eat it slowly.”

Amari grabbed it, using the momentum to stand. “I’m fine. I just was a little dizzy.” She bit into the bread, even intoxicated she didn’t talk with her mouth full. She swallowed and continued. “Jake was excited to meet you, and I would like to know how you know me if you do not mind!” She bit into the bread again and gave a satisfied sigh. “I love crusty bread…..”

Josh smiled and crossed to the hearth, noticing Jake’s rolling eyes. “You wanted to meet me, Master Narmolanya?” He picked up three tumbler glasses from the mantle and returned to the low table. He poured a healthy measure into the first two glasses, and a single shot into the third. “How might I be of service?” He passed one of the fuller glasses to Jake, kept the other for himself, and gave Amari the one that was nearly empty. Then he sat down and swirled the contents of his glass, sipping sparingly.

“Well…” Jake said grudgingly, and then sighed and shook out his blond locks. “It was the way you fought. I’ve never seen anyone move like that before. Are you taking students?”

Breaker chuckled and sipped his scotch. “I do teach martial arts, although my regimen is… quite rigorous. We can discuss that later though. Your friend’s questions are for more pressing, I think.” He looked to Amari just as she took her first sip of whisky.

“AHH!” Amari loudly exclaimed, ruining their conversation. “This… this is amazing, far better than anything - the spices, the way it warms your….” She looked at the other two and quickly fell silent. “My apologies.”

“No need for that,” Breaker chuckled, picking lightly at his meal. “I reacted the same way, the first time I sampled Yurik’s. Jake, you haven’t sampled yours.”

The half elf sighed and then took a quick sip. It warmed him from his mouth all the way down to his belly, filled with delicious motes of flavors he could not identify, and a solid alcoholic punch. “It’s good,” he conceded at last, “but I think I still prefer ale.”

“One man’s wheat scythe is another man’s weapon,” Breaker mused, smiling as he took another sip. Bloody hell, was everything a joke to this man? “Now then, Amari… what might I help you to understand?”

Amari blushed feeling him so close, and seeing his intense gaze on her. “How do you know who I -er..me am?” She stuttered. “How did we know each other?”

Breaker swirled his glass and gazed into the whirling amber liquid. “We did not know each other, strictly speaking. My mind houses many memories… some are my own. Others belong to men whose lives are long past. One of those men was your lover, in a former life.”

Jake sputtered and nearly spat out a mouthful of scotch. “Sorry,” he mumbled, wiping his mouth on his sleeve, “inhaled at the wrong moment.”

Amari felt a small pang of disappointment, hearing that Breaker himself was not the man she had supposedly known. His answer caused her to blush and she felt the need to sit back down again, rather than find a proper seat, she shifted closer to Breaker and sat on the floor in front of him to better gauge his reactions to her questions. “I don’t recall any of that. A former life? I don’t know any of this J-Joshua.” she looked down to her glass. “I don’t….know a lot of things… Jake is going to teach me… I feel so lost and clueless... “ Amari shook her head, and immediately regret it, the room seemed to spin. Still, she pushed on.

“What am I?”

“You are human,” Josh assured her, “but your soul is… of a different breed. Immortal, and extremely powerful. I’ve only crossed paths with two like you in the past. You are an Ar’Tuel, Amari, a being of pure energy residing in human form.”

Amari wasn’t sure how to take that information, she was powerful? No...that couldn’t be right, could it? She had always been weak. Maybe Joshua had the wrong person, maybe they just looked alike, acted alike, and had the same name.That made more sense, surely? Amari glanced over her shoulder at Jake, looking at him for some sort of support but he seemed to be in a sour mood. Amari cringed and looked away. Hadn’t he also said she had a lover in the past life? Was anyone even capable of loving something like her? “Is that so…” She whispered.

“Why should we believe you?” Jake demanded rather rudely, “you could have found out her name a dozen different ways. Doesn’t mean you were her past life lover or whatever.”

“Well, I could ask you both if she has a natural influence over nature,” Breaker smiled, ignoring the sharpness of the half elf’s tone, “I could do something to draw out her soul’s power. Or… I could simply tell you she has a birthmark on her lower back, where only a lover would see it.”

“I do…” Amari whispered, feeling small compared to the two men in the room. She wasn’t sure who she should believe. “I have a mark like that.” She wanted to believe Joshua because it meant she was something more… that she could be something more, but Jake… Jake said he would never lie to her, so if he was denying the fighters claims… then where did that leave her?

“So I’m either this Ar’Tuel… or a weak nobody…”

Amari shook her head again, and pushed herself off the floor, her cheeks a red hue. There was one way to settle this, she stepped away from Breaker and Jake, and turned her back on them, not realising she had spilled the last of her whiskey in the process. “Here.” She lifted up her cotton dress revealing her birthmark to the two of them. Among other things…

Jake caught his breath at the sight of her pale legs and sleek black knickers. But his sharp green eyes could not miss the distinct mark on her lower back. Breaker did not appear to even be looking; apparently, he had seen it all before.

“Alright, Amari, I’ve seen it.” Jake said, looking away with a rosy hue in his cheeks. “So maybe he is right. Maybe you are… Ar’Tuel?” She dropped the material of her dress and stumbled back into a seated position between himself and Breaker. A little too close to Breaker for his liking, she was practically sitting at his feet. “But what does that mean?”

“It means,” Breaker said over the rim of his glass, “that she is an individual of great potential. And so are you, Master Portal-Maker.”

Jake nearly dropped his glass in shock. “How did you know I-”

“I can read the residual energies in your soul,” Breaker shrugged. “One of several talents I gained in my travels.” He put down his scotch. “You do desire training, don’t you?”

“I, er… yes.” Jake said awkwardly. “I want to learn from the best.”

Amari seemed to grow tired she lilted and was now resting her head against Breaker’s leg.

Jake fidgeted and intentionally looked away. The Salvic girl seemed drawn to this man like iron to a lodestone. Not that Jake cared. It wasn’t like he had feelings for her, and he wasn’t the jealous type besides. He just didn’t want Amari getting too wrapped up in someone they’d only just met. The girl had been through enough hardships without being disappointed by this Breaker. Still… the man might be worthy of their trust. It seemed he would have much to teach them both.

“Alright,” Jake said finally, looking back toward Amari and Josh. “When can we begin?”

Name of Thread: What Could Have Been
Judgement Type: No Judgement

Rewards:

Amari:
4356 EXP
418 GP

Jake Narmolanya:
3630 EXP
363 GP

Inclusive of Althanas Day 3x.
Inclusive of Amari's Noble Commerce ability.

“Rummaging in our souls, we often dig up something that ought to have lain there unnoticed. ”
― Leo Tolstoy, Anna Karenina

“I’m in a secret underground hideout of a group of monster hunters, filled with magical totems, brass monkeys that move and enough firepower to take over a small country.”
― Bill Blais, No Good Deed

All rewards have been added.