The following chapters will be loosely based on the Path of Fire storyline, as I focus more on a character/Canach relationship.

Also, english is not my first language. Apologies in advance if there is some syntax errors…

I was born like every other sapling, from the pale tree, awakening from a dream that told our wyld hunt. That single dream would dictate our lives until death follows… Or so I've been told. From my birth, I was always told that my path would be special, unlike any other sapling or even any of the firstborns and second borns. The pale tree always told me that sacrifice was not the answer to my wyld hunt, and that I'll discover what I was truly meant to be in due time.

That's how my journey started. I, Katharos, as a thief sylvari in search of my life's true meaning.

Divinity's Reach - Crafter's plaza

After the events related to Balthazar's treason with the divinities, I've guessed it was time that I upgrade my gear. Not that I've been slacking by accomplishing side tasks, but equipment wasn't my forte. I've barely killed Mordemoth with my equipment falling and breaking apart. I was looking like I was an amateur, almost like a ragged pirate that took what was available at first glance.

"That's why I'll make sure that this doesn't happen this time with Balthazar around! But man, being able to craft ascended armor takes so much of my time, I wonder if I ever make it…"

As I mused to myself about the hardships of leatherworking, Taimi pulled me out of my thoughts.

"Commander! Bzzr… Where are you? We need to make a plan in order to stop Balthazar! I've made some analysis from our last encounter and things aren't looking great…"

"Taimi, it's good to hear you back." I carefully stopped what I was doing in order to focus on the conversation. This wasn't the time to lose a finger or two. "I am working on a new armor set, our last encounter reminded me that my equipment is nearing its destruction point… I was heading back to the crystal desert after this, I have whereabouts that I need to confirm."

"Oh! Sounds exciting! Let me know when you're done, I'll spice it up with my newest upgrade. It'll add you some resistance to fire because… *Chuckles*... You know, plants don't really tolerate extreme heat…"

"Uhh… Thank you for reminding me that I'm vulnerable to fire... I'll let you know once I'm done, over and out."

Tsk. I might be a plant but I have my strengths. Might as well finish that and head to the desert again. I wonder what is that secret city that everyone is talking about. Definitely something that a god might seek.

I wonder how Aurene is doing… She's been a great help for the last fights, but she is so reckless that I'm afraid that something bad is going to happen to her. I don't know why, but our lasts fights are leaving me with a constant bad feeling, like something terrible is going to happen.

"Brooding while working isn't something I would recommend doing, Commander."

I jolted over, dropping my tools on the ground and turned to face the one that disturbed me while working.

"Canach! You scared me to death."

"You seem pretty much alive right now. May I ask why you are away from the battlefield?" He asked, as he picked the headpiece that I was working on. "Working on some costumes?"

"Equipment. Mine's pretty much falling apart and I needed a refresh in style." I snatched my headpiece back and finished my interrupted stitching. Shaking my head I wondered, what in the pale tree was he doing here? I knew that he was busy gambling on my exploits or I would say, my high risks of dying, at the Amnoon casino. I removed my old hat and turned to ask him:

"What are you doing here? Weren't you supposed to be gambling your life away? I thought that you crossed Divinity's Reach out of your map."

"Sigh...Can't a man have his own motives? I still have a room here, so I came to fetch some of my stuff." He looked at me, crossing his arms. "Besides, it is always a pleasure to cross your path, Commander."

"The pleasure is shared, Canach." I moved towards a mirror that was hanging on the wall and carefully placed my newly crafted hat. Satisfied, I turned over:

"How do I look? Not too shabby as my first ascended piece."

"Hmm. I must say that your skills are indeed improving in leatherworking. Your next one will be better." He turned around and waved. "I'll be in the city until tomorrow morning, if you need some company on your way back to Amnoon, let me know. See you Commander."

I cringed. Ouch. I would've liked some better feedback on my work.

I stood there watching his form gradually disappear in the crowd. Staring down at my feet, I suddenly felt very lonely. I never was a social butterfly and avoided any opportunity to team up on my journeys. But, as the events unfolded, this state of mind gradually changed. Maybe I should ask Canach if he would want to spend the evening with me? Slumping my shoulders, I sighed. He probably wants to avoid any social interaction…

I turned around and faced the workbench, picking up the last pieces that will make the missing part of my matching armor set. I probably still have a couple of hours left of work to do on those parts. Might as well finish and I'll decide what to do afterwards. Satisfied, I resumed my work, letting my mind wander in countless scenarios of what's to come.

A few hours later, I was done and wearing my new set. Definitely much better, I can't believe that I managed to wear the last armor for the last two years or so… I decided to dye my leather in shadow abyss, in order to avoid any doubtful color combos with my turquoise and purple skin. But having this color made my gold eyes stand out even more. Looking myself one more time in the mirror, I gave myself one last overall critique. Not bad, at least it fits me and doesn't look mismatched. However, I sure hope that I won't attract too much attention… My eyes sure do look deadly in this. I grabbed my two pistols and hung my rifle crossbody, then proceeded to leave the leatherworking station.

I barely stepped in the streets that a man's voice halted me over.

"Going somewhere?"

I could recognise this voice in all over Tyria. I turned my head to look him over.

"Canach, what a pleasant surprise. Actually, I was planning on thinking on what I should do tonight before going back to Amnoon. What are you doing out this late?" Certainly heading to the festivities in town in order to lose more money on gambling… I should pay more attention to my surroundings, can't afford to lose this easily.

He frowned. "Planning on thinking? You do have a lot of free time if you can have the luxury of doing that." I sent him a glare. How dare he! He approached and scrutinized me from head to toe. "New clothing certainly does wonders... Frankly, I was bored and I figured that you might be still there. Turns out that I'm in luck."

Blushing, if it is possible while being a dragon-infused plant, I looked away from him. He really is something when it comes to compliment someone. Trying to avoid at all cost a positive statement coming from him. But that is what makes his charm, I always loved this part of him. I smiled and addressed his question.

"Thanks for the compliment. So now that you've found me, what were you planning to do tonight? Aside from being bored that is…"

He shifted and crossed his arms. He did look a bit hesitant, which is not common, coming from Canach. He's usually the I don't give a damn about your opinion type of guy. But that… Was a first.

"I was wondering if you'd be willing to share a drink at the palace bar? My place is right next to it, so we could go to Amnoon early tomorrow morning."

I froze, my eyes bulging out. Well that is new. Canach is asking me out?

"I uhh…" Get a hold of yourself! "Sure! Sounds lovely. Lead the way" I mentally slapped myself. What a great answer, now you look like a complete idiot.

Canach simply nodded and turned around, heading towards the bar in question. I hurried over, in order to follow him more closely. As I looked at him, he seemed deep in thought. That is clearly not normal. He's not picking on me, nor ranting on some useless stuff… I mean, he's not even noticing me staring at him. Hopefully some drinks will ease up the tension that he has, and be able to talk it out if there is anything.

As my mind rambled on, I haven't realized that we've reached our destination and bumped face on Canach's back.

"It appears that you're still not mentally there Commander… Has Mordemoth messed with your mind to the point of permanent damage?"

Now that's more like him. I grinned. "You would love that don't you? Having your personal mindless minion following you around..."

He snickered. "I won't elaborate on this, although it is a tempting thought. Are we going to drink?" He entered the bar and chose the quieter, darkest section of the bar. A waiter walked by our seats and Canach promptly ordered "Two whiskeys please." He turned his head, and looked at me. "Hope you're not a light drinker."

I removed my hat and weapons, and placed them on a hook next to our table. I seated myself right in front of him. "Not at all. I actually like whiskey, I never got the chance to taste one from Divinity's Reach."

Raising an eyebrow he asked. "Really? The Commander indulges in drinking spirits in her free time… That is something I would not have guessed. Mother wouldn't be pleased, having her pupil being not perfect."

Sighing, I decided to let the bait go. Time has taught me to save my energy for more important matters. He seemed a bit disappointed that I haven't responded. Serves him well with his loud mouth of his. It has been ages since my last free time, where I could just sit back, relax and not thinking about saving the world. I closed my eyes. This definitely feels good, I should indulge from time to time… But having him close to me makes it even more special.

"The drink won't empty itself, Commander. Unless you're changing vocations and becoming a mesmer specialized in the art of drinking through telepathy." He stared at me, finishing his… Wait a minute, there is 4 empty glasses? I stared at him dumbfounded.

"You're calling me a light drinker and you have already finished 4 glasses? You seem more like an alcoholic trying to forget the hardships that are thrown on it's path."

He stopped midway drinking is fifth drink. His glance darkened and he brought back his glass down on the table. I think that was a little rash from my end… I know he has a lot of demons with him. His past always been a burden to him. But now, this should be better since he has regained his freedom? I wonder if he'll talk now…

He let out a breath, and held his head with one hand. "Always been the keen type… I can't hide anything from you." He chuckled. "You are right, I'm hiding behind drinking and gambling. A fool's hope to regain sanity. I always felt that made me feel alive, but deep inside, I am slowly dying."

On that he finished in one sip his glass of whiskey and loudly slammed it on the table. He rose from his seat as if he was leaving. No no no! Damn this wasn't supposed to go this way… What should I do? I rose from my seat as well and grabbed his arm.

"Wait! Look I'm sorry, I didn't mean to bring back painful memories. I wanted to know you better, since we don't usually talk that often…"

He looked at me and he chuckled? Why he's chuckling, he wasn't leaving? What's going on? I stared back at him wide-eyed, completely dumbfounded and clueless.

"I'm just going to the bar to get another drink, don't look so alarmed Katharos. Though your reaction is… Touching." He paused, giving me a fond look and let his hand rest on top of mine on his arm. "Can I get you anything?"

I was completely at loss for words, mainly due to the fact that his hand was on top of mine on his arm. It felt weird, no, comforting and strangely warm. The gesture even gave me butterflies. Should I enjoy this or it is just an illusion of him being sarcastic about it?

"I um...just get me the same thing." I slowly removed my hand, instantly feeling the warmth disappear. I wonder if he felt it too… I gave him a small smile and sat back down on my chair. He raised an eyebrow and stared at me for a few more seconds before heading towards the bar. What was that look for? I raised my hand up to eye-level. This… I mean, that kind of touch with friends shouldn't do that. I still feel the butterflies in my stomach and the ghost of his touch on my hand. I lowered my hand and looked at him. He's definitely a mystery to me, an interesting one. I wonder if I'll still see him when all of this will be over… I stared down. Why am I so sad at this thought? I should be happy for him, he wanted his freedom. He'll probably enjoy all the things that he missed during all the years that he was captive.

"You are still brooding? You'll age up faster if you keep doing that…"

I snapped my head up, surprised.

"Sorry, I haven't heard you coming with all the noise."

He dropped the subject and placed a tall glass in front of me. He took place in front of me with the same glass.

"This drink is one of the finest found here. But be careful, it is not for the faint of heart. I always end up with this one, it helps me sleep better." He raised his glass. "To you Katharos, and to our adventure that lays ahead of us."

He confuses me even more. He said my name twice tonight, that is really not normal. But he seems to be in a good mood… might as well continue on that note and not ask myself too many questions. That can wait for later…

I raised my glass. "Same to you Canach. Thank you for bringing me here."

"The pleasure is mine."

We cheered and drank our drinks. This was really good, but it really packed up a kick. I went to look up to Canach to find out that the whole world was spinning. This isn't good. How am I supposed to keep myself composed and not look like a fool that can't hold up one drink?

Canach looked at me with knowing eyes. He rose and went to my side. He bent down to whisper in my ear.

"Need help to get out of there?"

There wasn't any sarcasm in his tone, from what I could deduce from my altered state. Afraid to make an unnecessary scene of the commander being drunk, I decided to comply with his offering.

"I would gladly accept any help that you're willing to give me."

I leveraged myself up with the help of his shoulder and took his offered arm for support. Easy now. The hardest part is to reach his place without making a fool of myself. I looked up, he stared at me, concern written all over his features. Why he's looking troubled? I'm only drunk… It's my own fault if I can't hold up any drinks. Unless…

"Is something wrong?"

He startled a bit and looked away. He tugged me closer.

"Let's get moving Katharos…"

He briskly walked out of the bar as I tried to follow him. That drink… doesn't make me feel good. I feel like I'm about to pass out… Ugh…

We were just in front of his house door, and I leaned a bit more heavily onto him.

"Canach… something doesn't feel right...I…."

He grabbed me by the shoulders, he seemed panicked.

"Katharos, just stay with me a little bit longer. Get a hold of yourself, we're almost there…"

I passed out, not hearing what he said afterwards or feeling him cradle me in his arms as he bolted into his house.

Everything was black, a cold shiver was running up and down my spine and a steady high note was buzzing in my ears. I felt queasy and heavy as lead. Having a few drinks shouldn't have made me feel like that… was there any poison in that last drink?

After a few hours, I woke up, my vision being blurry and unsteady. Canach… Where is he? Where am I? I squinted my eyes, trying to focus on anything in the decor that I was located in. After a few moments, a shadow figure appeared in the room.

"Thank the pale tree that you are awake, I thought I lost you for a moment…"

I tried to focus on the figure, but to no avail. "Canach, what happened?"

He sat down on the edge of the bed. For a while, he didn't say anything. He grabbed my left arm, as if he was seeking for something in particular, then dropped it back on the mattress.

"Someone wanted you dead. Probably one of the minions of Balthazar. The poison was really a work of art… you started to wither and your sap turned black." He sighed." Hopefully, you were with someone who had a taste of the black arts and know how to deal with them… I wouldn't recommend a daily dose of it though, as it may be fatal…"

My vision seemed to clear up a bit and a I looked up my arm. Pieces of leaves were falling off and were sticking onto my skin with a black residue. Gross… I should wash myself, and clean everything that was in contact with me. "Thank you for saving my life I guess…" I looked up the window, morning was rising. "We'll be heading out soon? I could use a shower before getting on the road. My skin has seen better days."

Canach chuckled, seemingly relieved that I was feeling better. He rose up from the bed and extended his arm. "I wouldn't have said any better Commander. If you would follow me…"

Tsk! That guy...he's back at calling me Commander again. I guess we're not as close as I thought we were. I sighed and took his arm to raise myself from the bed, realizing that I still had most of my armor on. I can't wait to peel this off my skin… yuck!

"Let me know once you're done, I'm off to do some errands before we leave."

He led me to the washroom and left me by myself. I proceeded to clean myself up, not without any difficulties, and cleaned my newly crafted armor. My whole body felt sore and tender with having such newly formed skin exposed. The ride will hurt… A lot. I'm going to have plenty of blisters by the end of the day… No complaining, I have to stay strong. I've allowed myself a moment of weakness, I can't have another one otherwise people will worry…

I put on my hat last, with my weapons. I made a quick run through my inventory to make sure that I wasn't forgetting anything. Taking a deep breath to center my thoughts, I called Canach. "I'm ready when you are, I'll be waiting downstairs, in front of your house."

"I'm heading your way, just give me a couple minutes."

I proceeded to place the saddle on my raptor mount and attach my inventory bags to it. By the time I was done, Canach was there, mounted on his own raptor. He looked at me, as if he wanted to make sure that I was fine. He settled near me, lowering his mount in order to address me better.

"Sorry for the delay. I am ready when you are Commander."

I shook my head: "I should be the one apologizing Canach, let's get going if we want to reach Amnoon before nightfall." I straddled my mount and headed towards the main city gate. He followed closely and soon enough, we were breezing through Tyria to reach Elonian lands.