The days spent with Chase were the most free and fun Jack had ever experienced. He was shown around the castle, introduced to the numerous warriors in cat form that Chase had. Jack was convinced this man must have been one of the most powerful magic users.

So…why did he live here? Like this?

"Chase?"

"Yes, Jack?"

"Why do you live here?" Chase looked over, his eyes sweeping over the smaller man. Jack was leaning on a more solid portion of the mezzanine railing, taking in the sight of the ruined ballroom.

"It is my home."

"But, why is it like this?" He gestured to the fallen rubble and cracks in the stone. "You have magic and power. You could be…anywhere."

"It…isn't that simple. The curse on me is complex. I've simply learned to adapt to its constraints."

"Oh. Maybe…I could help you figure it out?" Jack glanced over, "I mean, Wuya has a lot of books on magic. If you could tell me what you know about the curse, I can try to find a way to break it."

"You would…do that?"

"You saved my life and my mission. It's the least I could do." The genuine smile on Jack's face was infectious.

"Very well. Let's get you that flower so you can get back home.

When night had blanketed over the castle and village, Chase opened the garden gate for Jack. The young man watched with no shortage of awe as he tore vines and rusted chained from the door with such ease.

"This should put you in the right direction without being seen by the villagers."

"Thank you, Chase. For everything." He grinned at him.

"Here. Take Khaing with you, in case you'd like to contact me."

"Oh, are you sure? She's…well, not exactly subtle."

Chase chuckled, motioning to the crowd of various felines. Khaing separated from the others, striding up to them and sitting before Chase. The prince held a hand out, dark tendrils of magic enveloping the tigress. Her body contorted and changed before Jack's eyes, becoming darker and smaller. When the magic faded away, a sleek black raven stood in her place.

"There. Now we can send correspondence if you wish." He gestured for Khaing to follow the younger man. The raven dipped her head before taking flight and alighting onto Jack's shoulder. Jack smiled, looking at her before turning back to Chase.

"I'll write once I get back. Thank you again!" He gave a wave before turning and heading into the forest. Chase stood at the threshold, watching the red head disappear between the trees. He knew better than to get his hopes up but, for some reason, for the first time in centuries he felt like this could actually be a breakthrough. Just maybe, he was finally going to leave this dilapidated palace.