Light filters through the window and gently pulls me out of my slumber.
Slowly, I push myself up in the bed and glance over to see Zack strapping on his dischargers.
He notices me sit up.
"Hey."

"Hey."

"So, a god, huh? You were pretty exhausted for one."

I chuckle.
"Yeah. Although I'm immortal, I still need sleep like everyone else. Funny, huh?"

"Immortal? You know I still don't exactly believe you, right?"

I smirk.
"I'm aware. I'd be shocked if you did, honestly. It is the truth, though. Maybe I'll find the chance to prove it to you guys."

"I look forward to it, then. We're meeting downstairs in a few minutes, by the way."

"Alright."

As Zack finishes gathering his things, I begin to get ready to go downstairs.

The group gathers down in the lobby. I greet everyone and turn to Amelia.
"How was your chat with Elder Issim yesterday?"

"We had a very productive discussion. In fact, Elder Issim shared more of his journals with me."
She indicates the scrolls in her arms.

"Wow, he just gave those to you?"

"No, these are copies I wrote to bring back with me to the academy."

We all stare at Amelia. She spent all night writing those?!

"That's a lot of dedication."
Kara sounds awestruck, her voice soft.

Amelia continues.
"Regardless, we discussed more on the theory of temporal rifts and the Elementals, which has only strengthend my concern that we do not have enough energy."

"Then that definitely means we need to seek out another temple."
Leanna concludes.

"Do we have a lead on where to go?"
Zack seems to like to know his directions.

"Elder Issim, through his research into the Elementals, did mention that historically, the Gaeans, the people who originally worshipped the earth Elemental used to reside in the central woodlands of Esaria. The Caeli, the people who worshipped the wind Elemental, resided in the northern aerial plains. Therefore, it is most logical that the earth and wind temple will be located in those respective regions."

"What about the water or shadow temple?"
I'm curious.

She shakes her head.
"The Aquarians, those who worshipped the water Elemental, depended heavily on the seas. As such, Elder Issim was unable to pinpoint where the cultural hub of their society might have been. As for shadow, that is a complete unknown."

"If the earth temple is somewhere centrally located, then that would be the temple closest to us."

Leanna nods, agreeing with Kara.
"The fastest way back will be to take the crystalrail, so we should return to Bazada."

With our next course of action in place, we finish up at the inn and get ready to depart. Elder Issim sees us off, much to the delight of Amelia.

"It was good to meet you, and it'd be nice if you'd stop by again, when you can."

"It would be an honour, Elder Issim."
Amelia lightly bowed again.

I smile.
"You know we can, and we will. Just send a word my way."

"About that, I'm still skeptical about that stone I recieved."

I nod.
"Understandable, but there is no need to. I know that you tried it out some ten-odd minutes ago. I recieved your call, was just unable to answer, so to speak. And because you recieved no confirmation, I assumed you'd see us off, personally."

His old eyes widened a bit. A moment later he smiled politely.
"It would seem you were right. We could really learn some things from each other."

I smile again and give a respectful bow.
"It truly was an honour meeting you, Elder Issim. I thank you for your hospitality and your help, may our paths cross again."

"Likewise."

When everyone else said their goodbyes, we retreat back through the forest.
Leanna stays by my side the whole way through, still unsettled by the forest.
Luckily, or unluckily, depending on ones perspective, nothing unfavourable happens and we quickly make it through.

As we return to Bazada, I can hear the raucous sounds of the marketplace city long before I can see it.

We pass through the familiar city gates and return to the early bustle of the city.
Kara speaks up.
"Let's pause here and take a moment to restock. There are a few items I'd like to pick up which might be helpful."

Leanna answers.
"Good idea. Why don't we all make sure we have everything we need and then meet at the crystalrail station."

We all agree and split up. I spend some time browsing through the stalls again.
I didn't find anything particulary interesting, so I head over to the station to meet back up with the group.
I'm the first one to arrive, but Kara shows up only a few minutes later.
As the rest of the team gradually trickles in, Kara peers at the station list.
"The end of the line is Stonecrest so that's where we should go. Once we arrive there, I'll scout around and find our next course of action."

Leanna speaks up.
"We want to reach as close to central as possible so traveling to the end of the crystalrail is a good first step."

Once we had a semblance of a plan put together, we purchased our tickets.
Well, I've worked with less.

After the train pulls into the station, we all board and begin our journey.

We find our cabin quickly this time, although the pango was faster once again.
It's as comfy as our last cabin, although bigger, as our group grew.
We'll have a lot of time on our hands, so we could use it. I'm sure they have a few questions about me.
After everyone settled in I clear my throat.
"Well, I'm sure you guys have a question or two for me, and now we have the time to adress them. Feel free to ask."

Amelia immediately raises her hand.

I chuckle.
"You don't have to raise your hand, Amelia. Just ask away."

She nods.
"Very well. Yesterday you mentioned, that the source of your power is similar to our own. Would you elaborate on that?"

"Of course. For beginners, I heard that you use crystals, that are naturally infused with magic energy. Is that correct?"

"Yes, that is correct."

"Well, then, do you know how those crystals are made? What makes them, well, magical?"

Amelia shakes her head.
"That is still subspect to research. All we know is that they form naturally."

I slowly nod my head.
"I think that's where my power comes in. You see, I, and by extension every 'magic user' of my world, draws strenght from something we know as the Force."

I notice their looks and raise my hands slightly.
"I know, I know, pretty original, right? Not my idea, though, and it fits suprisingly."

I drop my hands in my lap again.
"Well, the Force is, in simple terms, a living energy that connects everything. Every matter, every living being, and apparently even every different world is connected through the Force. And in my world, only a small part of the people actually feel their connection to the Force. Those are being called Force sensitive."

Amelia speaks slowly, still processing the information.
"But in our world generally everyone can learn to cast magic."

"I know, and that made me quite curious. But... Tell me, is everyone equally talented? Are there some who try to become mages, but simply can't?"

Leanna chimes in.
"Now that you mention it, yes. There are those more talanted than others, who can learn faster or cast stronger spells, for example. There are also plenty students who leave after the first semester, because they cannot cast. And that's not taking all those rejected applicants into concideration."

I smirk.
"That's what I mean. Even on your world are people with a strong connection, and those without. For one, I am able to feel a person's presence in the Force, and Amelia has quite a strong one. Even stronger than Leanna. And when we were in the Mage Academy, the students there had a generally small presence."

Amelia tilts her head.
"In what margin?"

"Hmm, the students would be like large candles, some burning brighter than others. Leanna would be like lit torch. But you, Amelia, are like a starting bonfire."

All of them look at me with differing degrees of shock.

Leanna speaks up first.
"So you think Amelia's stronger than me?"

Is she… jealous?
I shake my head.
"I didn't say that. Right now, you are clearly stronger, because of your expertise and swordsmanship. However, Amelia's connection to the Force and especially her potencial is far greater."

Amelia looks at me curiously.
"If you compare me to a starting bonfire, how would you descripe your connection?"

"On that scale? A forest fire spanning a continent or two, on a forest planet."

Their gazes are full of doubt. Can't really blame them.

"Honestly, my connection, coupled with my power level, is so strong that everyone on this planet, probably even several systems further, would notice me, if I wouldn't supress it. Even those who are not Force sensitive."

Leanna looks at me apologetic.
"I'm sorry, but that is quite hard to believe."

I raise my hand to stop her.
"I am aware of that, no need to apologize. I'd like to prove it to you, but now is not the time to reveal my presence here. I also don't know if that time will ever come, as there are too many variables."

Amelia asks again.
"What do you mean with 'variables'?"

I scratch my head.
"Well, to explain that would require a rather lenghty explanation beforehand."

Suprisingly, Zack speaks up.
"I mean, it's not that we anything better to do. And really much time."

I nod.
"True..."

I grow quiet as I contemplate where to start.
The others look at me expectantly.
Finally, I start again.
"Okay, going back to the Force, one part I should mention is that there are several aspects. Basically there is the Light side, and the Dark side. And from what I've discovered so far, my hypothesis is that your elements represent those sides. That is also why shadow magic is concidered so much stronger than any other elemental magic, because shadow magic represents the Dark side of the Force, while all the other four together represent the Light side of the Force. And an important fact is that the Force always tries to keep a balance. Like a scale, so to speak."

I fall silent as I let that information sink in a bit.
Amelia is the first to speak up again.
"And from where do you draw yor power?"

I smirk.
"Well, both sides, more or less. Most of my techniques originate in the Dark side, but I also know many Light side ones as well. As for my strenght itself, I have a different view on the Force than most. I found the truth behind it, the Force isn't a scale with two different sides. It's a coin. The Light side and Dark side are merely two sides of the same medal. And I walk that small fin between them. That's where I draw my power from, not from one side or another, but from the Force as a whole. The Force expresses itself in the Light side and Dark side, but it is so much more than that."

They all fall silent again.
Amelia mumbles quietly.
"Most interesting."

After a few moments of contemplation, Leanna brings us back to the topic.
"So, back to those 'variables' you mentioned…?"

I nod.
"Of course. But first, please tell me what you all know about astronomy. What is the current knowledge in your world?"

They all share a look, unsure where I want to go with that.
Suprisingly, Zack is the one first to answer.
"Well, we know that our world is round, and not flat."

Kara chimes in.
"Yeah, it was also proven that our planet rotates around the sun, and not the other way around. Although there still are many who don't believe that."

Amelia speaks up next.
"That is correct. It was also recently found out that the stars we see in the night are quite similar to our sun, just incredibly far away."

Leanna perks up as well.
"That's right! I also read recently, that it's hypothesized all, or most of those stars have planets on their own."

Zacks gaze turns to me.
"Where do you want to go with that?"

I smile.
"Well, you're all right. Everything you said is true. Let me elaborate the rest."

They all look at me, curiosity filling their gazes. Even Zacks.

"As you stated, there are many, many stars out there. Each, or at least almost each one holds several planets in it's gravity well. Such a constillation is called a System. And a really, really, really large group of Systems held together by other gravitational forces is called a Galaxy. So that's basically the gist of it. You got that so far?"

I recieve a round of nods.

"Good. And, well, my world is not technically a planet, because in my world, the whole Galaxy is colonized."

They blink, once. Then twice.
I take out my holocom and open the saved map of the Galaxy, projecting the holographic image into the room.
Placing it on the table, I continue.
"You see here the map of my Galaxy. Or what is known of it, at least."

Their eyes are wide with wonder.
Amelia is the first to speak, unsuprisingly.
"What is this. How does this work?"

"It's a Holocom. A personal communicator with a holographic display. A simple piece of technology. Well, simple for us, that is."

"Fascinating."

I smile.
"I sometimes forget my world is so much more advanced than yours, at least regarding technology. I'm sorry if I'm overloading you with information."

Kara chimes in.
"Nah, it's fine. It may be a bit much to take in at once, but it sure is interesting. Please, do go on."

I give her a court nod.
"Sure."
Pointing to the map, I give them a rundown of galactic geography. I explain the important regions like the Core, the Mid Rim, Outer Rim, the Unknown Regions and Wild Space.
I then continue with the concept of Hyperdrive in its most barebone sense.
"As you can see, the Galaxy is a really, really large space, so we need to travel fast to get anywhere. And there come ships with a Hyperdrive into the picture."

After noting their slightly confused glances I clarify.
"Not ships in the way of sailing boats. I mean spaceships."

I change the galactic map to a hologram of my Fury-class.
"There are countless types and variations of ships in my Galaxy, differing in form and sizes, built for different purposes. Ranging from small one-seatet fighter crafts to huge battleships."

I change the models according to my explanation. A NovaDive here, a Harrower-class there.
"But regardless of their size, they have some things in common: Life-Support, of course, shields and weapons, but most importantly sub-light engines and Hyperdrives.
Hyperdrives accelarate a ship fast enough to enter Hyperspace. Hyperspace, in turn, is simply put an alternate dimension in which the known laws of physics don't work.
One can essentially travel faster than light, which is impossible in Realspace."

I pause and take a look at their confused faces. Can't hold it against them, really.
"It's alright if that's too much, it's not that important. As long as you get the picture."

They nod to that.

"My point is, the whole Galaxy is colonized. Or mostly, at least. And politically speaking, there are three powerhouses. The Galactic Republic, the Sith Empire, and the Hutt Cartel.
The Hutts are basically the overlords of organized crime in the Galaxy, so I'm not going into detail about them."
As I list the factions I mark their realms on the map.

"The Republic and the Empire on the other hand... Well, as you can tell by their names, they have contradicting forms of goverment, and as such contradicting mindsets.
The Republic is, well, a democratic republic where the citizens have a vote to their elected leaders. A good concept, in theory. The sheer size of the Republic makes it a buerroucratic mess filled with corrupt politicians though, and thus renders it highly ineffective.
The Empire, on the other hand, is lead by a single person, or entity, rather. The Sith Emperor. Again, theoretically, because the situation with the Emperor is complicated.
In his absence the Dark Council holds the Empire together, a group of the strongest Sith.
But only until recently, as one woman seized control for herself and is now the new Empress.
Do you follow to this point?"

They slowly but surely nod their heads.
Only Amelia raises her voice again.
"The concept of a republic and an empire are easy to understand, but who do you mean with 'Sith'?"

"That's my next point. The Sith and the Jedi. Remember what I said about Force sensitives? Well, those in the influence of the Empire are trained to become Sith, and those in the influence of the Republic are trained to become Jedi.
Sith are, stereotypically, users of the Dark side. They are in many cases sadistic evil doers and think only about their own gain. They yearn for power, no matter the cost.
Jedi are their counterpart. Users of the Light side, they fight for peace and want to banish the evil, namely the Sith.
Their codes represent their general mindset."

I let my voice echo ethereally as I recite the codes.
"Peace is a lie. There is only passion.
Through passion I gain strength.
Through strength I gain power.
Through power I gain victory.
Through victory my chains are broken.
The Force shall free me."

I make a small pause to let that sink in, then continue.
"There is no emotion, there is peace.
There is no ignorance, there is knowledge.
There is no passion, there is serenity.
There is no chaos, there is harmony.
There is no death, there is the Force."

With my voice returning to normal I conclude.
"Well, I let you decide which one belongs to whom."

Amelia is the first to speak up, unsuprisingly.
"I assume the first one belongs to those Sith, who seek strenght. That means that the other one is from the Jedi. Am I correct?"

I nod.
"You are."

Leanna chimes in.
"B-but what do you mean with 'there is no death, there is the Force'? Do you mean something like ghosts? That can't be true, right? Why would anyone believe in that?"

Her voice grows shriller again, and she looks pale.
I feared this would happen.
Well, I had to break it down to her sometime, but I try my best to be gentle about it.
"The Jedi believe that everything is connected to the Force, that life is an expression of it. So, following that logic, they believe that in death one will return to the Force.
That is about the only part of their codex that's actually acurate."

Leanna slowly shakes her head in disbelief.
"Stop it, Xerath. Please, it's not funny anymore."

I gently take her hand in mine, look her straight in the eyes and project a soothing aura for good measure.
"I know that this topic is scaring you, Leanna, but you have nothing to fear. Something like Force Ghosts do exist, but they tend to keep to themselves. A Force Ghost is the mind of a strong Force Sensitive who died, but doesn't want to become one with the Force and lingers in our realm. They are generally harmless, unless you seek them out specially.
I know you fear ghosts, even if I may not know why, but I assure you that you are safe from them as long as I am with you. Although I'd probalby be the only reason you'd ever meet one in the first place."

I mumbled the last part.

Zack raises an eyebrow.
"Are you actually serious?"

I turn my head to him.
"Absolutely. As a matter of fact, I once borrowed the power of several Force Ghosts. By now I absorbed their power completely as my own."

"I... really don't know if you're saying the truth or are just completely insane."

I chuckle.
"Understandable. I am sure I am sane, though. For now, at least."

Kara chimes in.
"What do you mean 'for now'?" Do you plan to go insane?"

"Of course not, but I've seen people break after way less than I've been through, or become corrupted by way less power than I am wielding. I try very hard to keep myself together, to hold onto my goals and beliefs, but even I have my limits."

I only now realize I never let go of Leannas hands, because she squeezes mine.
I turn to her and she gives me that sweet smile of hers.
She seems still a bit shaken, but it seems like I managed to calm her down and reassure her.
I smile back and also squeeze her hands lightly.

Amelia decides to ignore our moment, or she simply didn't notice it.
"If I may ask, how were you able to 'absorb' ghosts and why did you do that in the first place?"

Finally, and sadly, letting go of Leannas hands, I turn to Amelia.
"You may. Well, the why is a rather long story.
In short, I got a new, powerful master who wanted to kill me.
I didn't want to die, though, so I had to grow in power fast so I could beat him.
My ancestor pointed me to a ghost knowing an ancient ritual with which one can bind a ghost to oneself to claim those powers for himself, either by force or through a contract.
So I went there, learned that ritual, and ran around the galaxy literally collecting ghosts.
I managed to come to mutual agreements with them, thus forming contracts.
I would help them with whatever was holding them there, and they would help me defeat my master.
I confronted the master, but could not control the massive new powers of the ghosts, which they promtly used to take over my body.
After some time I was able to control those powers, and in time have bested my master.
The ghosts approached me, demanding their freedom, but they had broken the contract, betrayed me, so I absorbed them completely."

All of the guys were flabbergasted.
Can't really blame them, I've been through and done some really weird shit.

Leanna is the first to speak up, pale still. She may be putting on a brave front, but that whole topic still makes her uncomfortable.
"What kind of master would want to kill his subordinates? And what do you mean with 'your ancestor pointed you the way'?"

I chuckle dryly.
"A Sith master, that's who. I was found in Sith jurisdiction, so my whole training progress was mostly do or die. Idiotic, anything but productive, but hey, that was their fling.
And, yeah, as it turned out I am the descendant of an old and powerful Sith Lord, who was appearently woken out of his rest by me moving closer to his rest or something. After that he seeked me out and always tried to help me the best he could."

I smile melancholic.
"It's a bit sad that the only supportive family I ever knew was a ghost, but that's still better then nothing, I guess."

Kara speaks up.
"What do you mean? Didn't you have a family?"

I shrug.
"None I remember. My parents were slaves, so I was born as a slave as well. My parents died after I was a few years old due to a cave-in. I was only freed from being a slave after my Force Sensitivity was found by the Sith. And even then it was not exactly better. At least in the beginning."

They have similar reactions. Leanna and Kara hold their hands over their mouths, Amelia's mouth is agape with shock, and even Zack is visibly shocked.
He is also the first to speak up again.
"I- We had no idea. That's some heavy stuff."

The pango was quite absent in this conversation, until now.
He nuzzles me in the side, and I pat his head.

Kara immediatly turns in.
"Yes, I'm so sorry I brought that up."

I raise my hand.
"Don't be. You couldn't know. Also, that is way in the past. I'm over it. Mostly."

Leanna once again graps hold of my hand and squeezes it.
As I turn to her, she gives me another heartwarming smile before speaking up.
"You told us about the codes of the Jedi and the Sith, but which one do you follow, what do you believe in?"

I squeeze back and smile, grateful for the chance to change the topic.
"Ah, yes. Well, there is truth in both codes. There is no death, only the Force, and the Force did indeed free me.
However, other than that, they are quite flawed, especially the Jedi code. I follow another code, one more balanced, one I found for myself."

I once again let my voice echo ethereally.
"Flowing through all, there is balance.
There is no peace without a passion to create.
There is no passion without peace to guide.
Knowledge stagnates without the strength to act.
Power blinds without the serenity to see.
There is freedom in life.
There is purpose in death.
Because there is no death, only the Force.
The Force is all things and I am the Force."

Amelia perks up, smiling slightly.
"Yes, this does sound like it combines the best aspects of both codes. It also does sound like you, and holds a suprising amount of truths."

I raise an eyebrow.
"Hmm? What exactly do you mean?"

"Well, peace is only possible if the people want to create something instead of destroying it, for example. Additionally, history teaches us enough about individuals holding great power becoming corrupted by it, blinded by it."

I smile appreciatingly, and a bit proudly.
"Exactly. And with me following this code, I can keep myself in check. To not use my powers randomly, to not act impulsively, and so on."

Barely finished with my sentence I stiffle a yawn.
Taking a glance out the window I notice the sun is setting.

"Well, it's getting quite late. I suggest we call it a night here."

Leanna perks up.
"Agreed. We still have the whole day tomorrow, and about half a day after that before we arrive in Stonecrest."

I groan.
"What? There's still one and a half day ahead of us trapped in this train? Urrgh… Although, I guess there are worse things than chilling with you guys in a comfy cabin."
I finished that sentence with a charming smile.
I am quite fond of this little group of friends I gathered.

Kara chimes in.
"Awwww, we like you, too, God Guy! Isn't that right?"

Amelia nods, the ghost of a smile on her lips.
"Indeed."

Leanna blushes and stutters.
"W-What are you saying, Kara?"

She just tilts her head innocently, but her eyes betray her with a teasing shimmer.
"What do you mean? Is he not your friend?"

"Huh, what? Of course he is!"

Karas smile becomes almost predatory.
"Unless… he is something more to you?"

Don't do that. Don't give me hope.

By now Leanna is a blushing mess.
"Kara!"

I, myself, have folded my hands in front of my face to hide my own blush.
Doing that I take a glance at Zack, who looked at me as well.
He reaches out his fist.
"You're not half bad."

I take his sign and reach out as well to the fist bump.
"You as well. You're actually a real bro, you know that?"

The ghost of a smirk is playing on his lips.
"Thanks."

"By the way, Kara, I veto that nickname."

"What? Why?!"

"I have enough titles and names people call me. I'd prefer it if you guys could call me by my name."

"Hmm, alright, then."

"With that being out of the way, I wish you all a good night."

I turn into a comfortable position to sleep under a few varieties of 'Good night, Xerath'.
That discussion today took more out of me than I thought. I'm out after a few minutes.

...

...

...

The next day we spent mostly playing cards and bantering.
Amelia once again manages to get under Zacks skin.
Kara is also a suprisingly good player. Altough I think I should have seen that coming.
Otherwise they refrained from asking anything personal. They most likely don't want to open any old wounds of mine, which I appreciate.
And the atmosphere isn't even forced. All in all a fun day filled with laughter.
Just what I needed after the suprisingly emotional conversation yesterday.
Plus, more fundings for me is always good. Although I should seek out an income that doesn't involve ripping my friends off.
Well, I'm not exactly ripping them off, as I play fair, but the point still stands.

...

...

...

After travelling on the train for two days, we finally arrive in the city.
I squint at the mid-day sun and join the others as we quickly disembark the train, grateful for a chance to stretch our legs.

Kara announces our arrival.
"Here we are: Stonecrest."

She pulls her arms overhead in a stretch, forcing her chest out. Zack's eyes are immediately drawn to her.
She smirks at Zack who quickly averts his gaze and stares hard at a random cobble on the street.

The town doesn't differ much from the other towns we've seen so far.
It is made up of the same stone buildings and cobblestone paths.
Although I have to admit that the architecture on this planet is unlike anything I've seen so far.
People wander in and out of the shops, going about their daily lives.

The first thing we do is find and enter the inn.

"Alright, so now that we're here, how do we figure out where to go next?"
I'd like to make some progress.

Kara grins.
"Just leave it to me. I'll ask around and see if I can come up with anything."

"I'll keep my eyes and ears open just in case I hear something too."

Kara shakes her head at Leanna's remark.
"You should relax and enjoy the city. I've got some contacts I'm going to reach out to so I've got this."

"Oh, well, if you're sure…"

Kara nods.
"I already have a few ideas and leads based on some of my previous scoutings for temples and hidden relics."

Leanna seems finally convinced.
"Okay, then let's meet back here in a few hours to regroup."

Zack throws in his comment.
"Works for me."

Amelia nods distractedly.

"Now that we have something of a plan, I'll be heading off."

"Me too."

Kara and Leanna leave while everyone else stirs.
I don't have anything pressing to do. I wonder if I can help or spend some time with someone.
Kara seems to already have an idea of where she wants to go.
Maybe I can hang out with Leanna.

I check the surrounding streets and come upon a statue.
Leanna stands right in front of it.

"Hey."

She smiles as I approach.
"Hey."

I look back at the statue of a woman. She stands in regal pose, overlooking the town square.
She's decked out in armor with a sword hanging by her side.

"Who is that?"

"That is Alaina Vale. She was a Mage-Knight who fought to protect her city against the advancement of VOID."
Leanna's eyes sparkle with admiration as she looks at the statue.
She tucks a lock of hair behind her ear.

"That is quite admirable. I guess she is from here?"

Leanna nods.
"She was still studying at the Academy to become a Mage-Knight but happened to be home when VOID attacked.
They didn't have the same type of training regimen in place back then as we do now. Normal townsfolk weren't trained or prepared to fight in a battle and it was absolute chaos.
Scouts by the gate spotted the advancement of a VOID troop coming to town, which caused panic. Alaina quickly took charge and tried to calm the people down.
Thinking on her feet, she asked for volunteers to help evacuate families from the city and others to help set up barricades and defenses in town to slow the VOID advancement.
Those who stayed to fight knew what the consequences would be, but Alaina's unfaltering bravery rallied them. Together, they found whatever they could to block off the streets and alleyways. That way, they could at least try to control where the fights happen.
And then VOID entered the town."

My face is grim, and I just now notice that I have closed my fists.
"That must have been a bloodbath."

Leanna grimaced.
"It wasn't pretty. These weren't trained soldiers, but still, they persevered for their town.
Alaina and a team of guards sought out the leader of VOID, who was hidden in the back lines. They used hidden passageways in the town to quickly reach him.
Using her magic and training, she was a formidable match during the skirmish, and at one point, she even had the upper hand.
When the leader realized he may be cut down, he cowardly tried to retreat.
He cast a line of shadow fire between himself and Alaina, which stretched across the road. It burned both any VOID followers and townsmen alike who were caught in the crossfire."

Detestable. Absolutely detestable.

She begins to speak in awe.
"But that did not stop Alaina. She leaped through the dark flames and ran her sword straight through him!"

My mouth drops. An impressive display of courage.
"That is so badass!"

Leanna grins broadly, her eyes sparkling.
"It was! And a huge morale boost for anyone who witnessed it too."

"I can imagine. She literally jumped through fire. I'm assuming that was the fatal blow that killed the leader?"

Leanna nods.
"Unfortunately, shadow fire is far more deadly than normal fire… and it proved to be fatal."

She sacrificed herself to safe the people of her town. That is highly admirable.
"What happened then?"

"With the VOID leader defeated, the rest of the followers broke down and either fled or surrendered.
Thanks to Alaina, this town wasn't taken over."

An enthralling tale. I wonder, though…
"You seem to know a lot about her."

Leanna brightens up again.
"Of course, she's such an inspiration! There aren't many Mage-Knights who are women. While Alaina may not have been one of the heroes of Esaria, who defeated and ended the conflict with VOID, she still made just as big an impact to the people of this town.
To me, Alaina embodies what it means to be a Mage-Knight. Being a Student didn't stop her. She still did everything possible to protect those who needed it."

"Is that why you became a Mage-Knight?"

"It's one of the reasons. Alaina showed me that no deed is too small to make an impact on someone. As a Mage-Knight, I get send on missions all across Havengarde. I feel like I can make more of a difference than if I were just a research mage."

She grins.
"Plus, getting to travel around and meeting new people isn't so bad."

"How does your family feel about you traveling so much?"
I know it doesn't compare, but if I tried something like that, the ones that come closest to my family would be up the wall.

"While they don't think it's ideal, it's something they're already used to."

"Oh?"
I know her tone. She's trying to find words that are true, but not too in-depth. There seems to be more to it.

Leanna nods.
"My older brother is also a Mage-Knight."

"Oh, so you kind of followed in his footsteps?"

"I guess you could say that."

"Do you two get along?"

She thinks, then nods slowly.
"Yeah, we do actually."

"He must have been really happy to hear you've become a Mage-Knight as well."

Leanna shifts her gaze away and smoothes her skirt. When she looks back up, she seems too cheerful.
"Well, that's a long enough break! I should go and help Kara with the search. I know she said we didn't have to but investigating is part of what I do.
I'll meet you back at the inn!"

That was a fast change in her demeanor. I can take a hint, seems like her family is a sensitive subject.
I have some ideas but I don't want to jump to conclusions. She will tell me when she's comfortable enough.
"Alright, I'll keep looking around as well."

She flashes me one last smile before quickly disappearing down the street.
I guess I'd better get a move on as well.
With that done, I think about my next steps.

I wonder what Amelia is doing.
I make a big loop around the town but don't find her anywhere. Racking my brain, I try to think of things Amelia would be interested in.
Probably a library or a museum or something else she could learn something. I make another lap around town but don't find those places.
Well, I'm making no progress just wandering around… I better return to the inn.
I make my way back, and am suprised to see a familiar set of pigtails sitting quietly at one of the tables.

Amelia looks up at me as I approach her.
"Greetings."

"Hey..."

She makes no indication to speak again.
Guess I have to, then.
"What are you doing here?"

"I am awaiting the rest of our group at our designated meeting point."

"Right, but we still have a lot of time before the others are going to show up."

She blinks.
"Yes, I'm well aware of that information."

"Don't you want to explore the town?"

"No."

I continue to stare at her so she explains.
"I do not possess the contacts of Kara to pursue a lead on our next destination, nor are there any familiar channels of leisure for me in this city.
The only option available is to reconvene with the rest of the group. Hence, I'm awaiting everyones return."

Yeah, I haven't found anything that might interest her, hence why I haven't found her in town either.
However…
"Whilst I truly have found nothing that obviously might interest you, there has to be something fun to do around here."

She shakes her head.
"From my understanding, there is no library or museum."

I nod.
"Haven't found them either. Are those the only places you've looked for, though?"

She nods.

"Fun could mean more than just that. Have you tried looking for a place with games or something?"

She cocks her head to the side and looks at me curiously.

"Uh, you know like..."
I pause as I try to think of what types of games would be in this world. Arcades? Probably not. Maybe stuff you'd find at a fair?
Even the stuck-up nobles of Kaas City know some games for a fair. Even if it's mostly to cater to the children...
"Um, ring toss or knife throwing or whack-a-womp rat."

Amelia pauses.
"Perhaps you are describing a 'carnival'?"

"Yeah, that's it! Probably."

"I did not seek out that information, but I believe I may know the location of what you are seeking."

"Really? That's great! We should go. It's been so long since I've been to one."

She pauses as she thinks, then gets to her feet.
"I suppose frequenting an establishment such as that could be considered a form of learning."

I nod.
"That's right. One can learn in more ways than just the academic one. Let's go!"

Amelia exits the inn and heads confidently out into the streets. I keep up as she turns into side streets, and before long she pauses infront of an open alley.
It reminds me of the fairs and carnevals we have back home, in civilazed space.
People setup their stalls along the sides, but instead of selling their wares, they advertize adctivities.
There are stalls offering targets to test your skills, like weapons throwing or stalls which will guess your weight or age.

Amelia glances at me.
"Is this what you were suggesting?"

I nod.
"More or less what I had in mind. This is even better than I imagined, however.
Which one do you want to check out?"

"I am content to merely observe."

I frown slightly.
"That's not fun. You should try one. Besides, one learns more by doing something instead of just watching."

She seems to concider my words, but doesn't seem to be interested in choosing. I guess that means I'll just have to choose for her.
Maybe we should go for something more engaging like target throwing.
Looking around at those stalls, I don't recognise what half of these options are.
There's something with floating circles and something else with bottles.
I pause when I see the stall with blasters, or dischargers as they are called here.
Finally something I recognise. This shouldn't be too different from the shooting ranges back home.
"Let's try shooting the dischargers!"

Amelia gives me a strange look. Does my enthusiasm seem weird?
"An interesting choice."

Her tone suggests this is not something she'd try on her own, but she follows me to the stand anyway.
The man behind the counter grins at us.
"Think you have what it takes to win? Hit three out of five shots to win a prize."

I turn to Amelia.
"You ready?"

"Perhaps if you attempt it first I can observe you and then attempt it myself."

I raise a brow.
"Are you trying to tell me a discharger is too difficult for you?"

Amelia shakes her head dismissively.
"Nonsense. Dischargers are merely a simple tool. I, on the other hand, have extensive magic training.
This is nothing more than an exercise in coordination. I will attempt it."

"That'll be two coins, miss."

Before she can place the coins on the counter, I flip him the coins.
"I convinced you to it, this round is on me."

Amelia looks suprised, but nods.
"Thank you."

The shopkeeper meanwhile took the coins and swapped it out with a discharger.
"There are five rounds loaded in there. Have at it."

Amelia clutches the discharger and holds it in front of her. She squints one eye as she lines up her aim. Then she squeezes the trigger.
A bolt of energy shoots out of the barrel, and Amelia lets out a small gasp at the kickback.
The shot is wide and she misses the target.
Amelia's eyes are also wide as she studies the discharger with interest.
"How curious."

"Could it be that you never shot one of these before?"

She nods.
"The opposing force was... unanticipated.
…This time I will be prepared."

She lines up her aim and fires again. Anticipating the kickback, she fights to keep her aim straight, but can't stop the slight jerk of the weapon.
Again her shot misses.
She frowns and seems suprised at herself, as if she can't believe that she's continuing to miss.
She fires again, but aims too high and misses. Then fires once more and shoots wide. For her final shot, she aims too low and misses again.
Her face falls when she realises she's all out of shots.

It's frustrating not to be able to do exactly as your brain tells you, especially for someone as logical and analytical as Amelia. That last round must have been really unsatisfying.

"Good try, miss, but unfortunately-"

Amelia interrupts him by placing more coins on the counter.
"I would like another attempt."

I'm a bit suprised by the determination in her voice. But then again, she found a challenge, so I guess it's not that suprising.

"As you wish."
He takes the coins and resets the discharger with more rounds.

Amelia fires again and again, but never quite hits the targets.
She throws down the discharger and raises her bracelet, an unusual fire in her eyes. They begin to glow.

I call out to her.
"Hey! What are you doing?"

"I will hit the traget."
Her emphasis on hit.

"You've got to use the dischargers!"

"This discharger is clearly defective and not utilising the energy properly! I will use my magic to prove it to you."

My voice softens.
"I have no doubt in your skills casting magic, but shooting a discharger is a new skill. You shouldn't give up."

Amelia doesn't react.

"Are you really going to let a measly little discharger get the best of you? The more you shoot it, the better your aim will be and you'll be hitting those targets in no time."

As she considers my words, her jaw unclenches and she lowers her aim.
She picks up the discharger again with new resoluteness. As she lines up the shot, she takes her time before shooting.
This time her shot is much closer to the target. Amelia nods, as if confirming something to herself.
She shoots again, and her shot is even closer to the target!
On her last shot, her face hardens as determination sets in.
This time, she painstakingly lines up her shot and steadies her grip. As she pulls the trigger, she uses her body to help her keep steady from the kickback and her shot hits the target.
Her eyes light up as she throws her arms in the air and hops up and down with excitement.
"I hit it! I hit it! Did you see?"

She turns to me with a big smile on her face as she jumps excitedly. Her pigtails bounce along with her and she claps her hands.
Sometimes I forget just how young she really is. I can't help my equally big smile.
Plus it's always a great feeling to finally accomplish something that was too hard.
I just can't help myself but ruffle her hair whilst matching her grin.
"Yeah, I have! That was a great shot!"

She squirms as if she still can't believe she made it.
Suddenly, her face turns red and she freezes. I see the moment of embarrassment on her face and I retract my hand before she resumes her usual blank stare.
"Ahem, I meant it was only a matter of time before I got the correct calculations.
A-Anyway, I shall return in a moment."

She rushes off in a hurry towards the ladies room, probably to recompose herself.

"I guess I'll wait here, then."

She still didn't win that prize though…
Maybe I can win it for her.
I adress the shopkeeper.
"Hey, I'd like to give it a go as well."

It's been many years since I've last used a blaster, back in the mines to shoot Womp rats that got too close to sensitive gear, but it should be quite similar.
I place my coins on the table and the man hands me a discharger.
The first round misses as I familiarize myself with the weapon.
Concentration. I aim carefully.
My second attempt hits the target as does my third.
Unfortunately, my next attempt misses as I misjudge my aim.
This is it...
I steady my aim and fire.
My aim is true and I hit the target!

"Yes!"

I put down the discharger and pump my fist before me.
The man grins.
"Nicely done! Well, here's your prize. Congratulations."

He hands me a pink pango plushie.

"Thanks."

Amelia returns and her eyes grow wide when she sees my plushie.
"How did you aqquire this?"

"It's the prize from the game."

She looks at me suprised and seems impressed.
"You attempted the game and you were successful?"

"Yes."

"I see…"

She eyes the discharger booth again. I hold out the plushie.
"This is for you."

She blinks.
"But you earned this."

"With the intention to give it to you. Besides, I already have a Pango, I don't need another one."

I place the plushie in her hands.
"Let's check out another stall."

"Okay."

I turn around and begin walking, but not before I catch the small smile on Amelia's face as she hugs the plushie close to her.
As we wander the stands, I think about Amelia and her Mage-Caster program.
"So, I've been wondering, as a student at the Mage Academy, won't coming on this advanture with us affact your classes, I believe it is called?"

"That is not an issue for me as I do not have classes."

"You don't?"

She shakes her head.

"Oh, then what have you been working on?"

"My research studies. A significant component to becoming a Mage-Caster is research study.
That is my focus and basis for participating on our travels."

"So you just have to document research of a subject area of your choice and you're done?"

"To put it so plainly does a disservice to the amount of effort in formally achieving the status of Mage-Caster, but ultimately, you are correct."

I raise my hand.
"I'm sorry if I offended you. I did not intend to belittle your efforts. However, I know how cabable you are, so why haven't you done that already?"

She nods, accepting my apology.
"It is not so simple. I had taken into consideration furthering the research on temporal rifts and the other parallel worlds, but such an endeavor would have been fruitless without an avenue for further research."

That explains her fascination with Elder Issim and Embermyst.
"And then I came along…"

She smiles.
"Precisely."

I return her smile.
"I do hope I'm more to you than a research opportunity. Aren't you worried the Mage Academy will come looking for you, though?"

She nods once.
"You are a trusted companion. After departing the Academy, I did ensure that a notification would reach my professors to inform them that I am currently traveling on a research study.
These studies are quite numerous and common amidst my peers."

"I see."

Amelia pauses in front of a stall.
"Shall we attempt this activity?"

"Sure."

We spend some more time trying out the other stalls before we decide to leave. I even managed to win another small plushie. I hope Leanna will like it.
Amelia returns to the inn, but I decide to stay out a little longer.
With that done, I think about my next steps.
Kara didn't want any help, and I wouldn't know where to look for her, so there's one option left.

Based on previous patterns, it shouldn't be difficult to figure out where Zack went.
I make my way back to the inn shortly after Amelia.

To my suprise, Zack isn't standing in front of the bounty board. Instead, he sits alone at a table, nursing a tankard.
Looks like Zack's starting early. I'm sure if I join him that'll be my entire day.
It also doesn't really sound like my kind of thing. I've never been into drinking and I don't intend to change that now.

Besides, I'm kind of tired and there's nothing else that catches my eye.
I spot Amelia sitting alone at a table and head to her.

She looks up at my approach.

"Mind if I join you in waiting?"

She shakes her head and gestures for me to sit.
I meditate a bit and she goes over her research notes while we wait for the others to return.

The sun has completely set as I step back into the streets.
I look up at the night sky. The stars are especially clear tonight as they twinkle amidst the darkness.
Amelia and Zack are already standing outside of the inn, staring at something.
I can't see their faces too clearly, but Amelia seems pensive. Zack continually glances around.
I approach them.

"I don't remember any of the other cities being this dark at night."

I follow Amelia's line of sight and notice a darkened lamppost. Maybe the light bulb's gone out?
Looking further down the street, I see that the street lamp after this one is lit but the one after that is dark again.

"This is highly unusual."

"It seems like every other lamp is out. That can't be a coincidence."
One or two? Maybe. But not systematically like this.

Amelia frowns.
"That is the conclusion we came to as well."

I peek inside the nearest lamp.

"Do you see a crystal?"

I squint as I peer into the darkness. I can't make out any shapes but I can't tell if it's because it's too dark or there's nothing inside.
I concentrate. Normally I can feel the presence of these crystals when I concentrate on them, since they are full of Force energy, but I feel only an echo in the lamp.
"This one is empty."

Zack looks suspicious while Amelia frowns in concern.
"Surely the town wouldn't be so negligent in their maintenance and upkeep…"

Zack finally chimes in to the conversation.
"It's a possibility.

I shake my head.
"Whilst that it true, it's also unlikely. It seems more like someone was stealing the crystals."

Zack looks skeptical while Amelia looks thoughtful.
"The likelyhood of crystals being stolen from lamps is very low. It is more likely that either the town is purely negligent or is short on rescources for replacements."

I was just about to retort something when Amelia continues.

"Whatever the theory, we should bring this to someone's attention."

"That makes sense."

Amelia searches our surroundings and spots a guard patrolling on a nearby lane. We quickly approach him.

I speak up.
"Excuse me."

"What is it."

"We noticed that half of your lamps are dark-"

Before I can finish my sentence, the guard sighs wearily.
"We just can't replace them fast enough! Every day they keep taking more and more.
That's acutally what I'm doing now. I'm counting how many need to be replaced tonight."

"So you're saying someone's been stealing the crystals?"

"That's exactly what I'm saying. Sounds crazy, right?"

"Not at all. It's the most logical conclusion."

Amelia looks impressed that I guessed correctly. Only that I didn't guess.
I give her a smug smirk.

Zack chimes in.
"What's the point of that?"

"Your guess is as good as mine. They're really not worth much."

"Have there been any other relevant thefts?"

"Sure, it's not just lamp crystals they're stealing. They're stealing pretty much any kind of crystal that they can get their hands on.
It's been going on for a few weeks now and I'm at my wits' end! We've got a reward out for anyone who knows anything but we've still gotten no leads.
Anyway, if you guys see something, let me know. I've got to get started on replacing these crystals before even more get taken."

Amelia, Zack and I stand in silence as the guard leaves.
I'm not even from here and I can tell that something really weird is going on. But 'really weird' is like fifty percent of what I'm doing, so that's nothing new.
Based on Amelia and Zack's expressions, it must be pretty bad.

Zack speaks first.
"We should head back."

"Yes, we should inform Kara and Leanna."

I simply nod in agreement.

We follow Zack back into the inn where Leanna and Kara are waiting and exchange greetings.

I turn to Kara.
"Any news?"

"I heard there was someone who could help, but I haven't been able to track him down. I'm sure I'll have an answer tomorrow."

She glances outside the window.
"Has anyone else noticed how dark it is around here?"

Amelia chimes in.
"Someone has been stealing the lamp crystals. That is what the guard informed us."

Kara raises an eyebrow.
"Must be some pretty desperate thieves out there."

I'm curious.
"Why do you say that?"

"Well, lamp crystals give essentially no return. They don't sell for anything because they're all specifically marked to be easily identified as this type of crystal."

"Obviously something very weird is going on. I can tell, half my life fits that description."

Leanna chimes in.
"Maybe someone's more interested in the energy of the crystals instead of their value."

I nod.
"I had the same thought. The guard also said they steal any kind of crystal they can get, not only lamp crystals. Do lamp crystals have a lot of energy, though?"

Kara answers.
"Not particularly."

Turning to Leanna, she continues.
"We should look into this. I can't think of any reason why someone would want lamp crystals, and I'd like to know what they're doing with them."

Leanna bites her lip cutely as she thinks, then nods, coming to a decision.
"You're right, we should investigate."

Zack throws in his two cents.
"Yup."
Or more like one cent…

Leanna stops and stares at Zack.
"Really? I'm a bit suprised, but glad to see this side of you!
It sounds like the guards could use our help figuring out this mystery."

"Yup."

Again, Leanna stares at Zack, a little more uncertain this time.

Kara grins slyly.
"They're offering a reward for any information, aren't they?"

Zack nods affirmitavely.
"Yup."

Leanna sighs.
"I should have guessed…"

Amelia chimes in.
"Regardless, our first plan of action should be to search for any irregularities in energy."

"Amelia and I can do a scan of the city to see if anything shows up on the scanner."

We follow as the two of them step outside of the inn and begin to fiddle with their manipulators.
They pace the lenghts of the streets, but don't seem to trail too far away.

"Aren't you guys going to walk the perimeter of the city or something?"

Amelia answers my question.
"There is no need for such inefficiencies when we could just perform a radial scan."

Leanna frowns.
"I'm not picking up any energy spikes or unusual readings."

Amelia continues to pace, then pauses.
"Hm…"

She fiddles with her manipulator again, then turns down a side street.

I call out to her.
"Hey, wait!"

She pauses again, then looks up.
"Very curious. There is energy residue scattered throughout the city except for one area in the southern corner of town."

Leanna chimes in.
"Oh! My scan radius doesn't reach that far.
So the southern corner has zero energy readings?"

"Precisely."

"The remaining lamp crystals in the area should at least be giving off a pulse of energy. If even the pulse is missing, then that would indicate the place is completely dark."

Amelia concludes.
"We must go in this direction."

Amelia leads the way, following her manipulator.
As we continue to walk, the cobblestones underfoot change slightly. They're looser and more uneven than in the heart of the city.
The buildings are weathered and spotted with patchwork brickwork.
The alleys feel dimmer here than in the center of town as an even greater majority of streetlamps are dark.
The buildings and houses become more spread out as we reach the outskirts of the city.
The further we travel, the more run-down the houses become. Crumbled walls from buildings and other debris litter the streets.
I watch my footing carefully as the dim light makes it easy to trip and fall.

I find it hard to believe the well-kept city I've come to know has parts like this. Did a bombardment happen here or what? Reminds me somewhat of Taris…
"Are we still in the city?"

Leanna answers.
"Technically, yes. We're in the remains of the last battle that occured in Stonecrest."

"You mean the one between Alaina and VOID?"

Leanna nods.
"That's right. This is a part of the original city which hasn't been restored yet."

Amelia pauses in front of a dilapidated house.
"This is the area of the irregularity."

The place is quiet. Too quiet.
"Does anyone even live here?"

Leanna answers me again.
"Probably not, so it could make a good hide out."

Kara chimes in, her voice low and focused.
"Let's go in."

Kara gingerly opens the door, which is falling off its hinges, and slips inside. I tentatively follow her and the rest of the team trickles in.
It looks like this was once a living room with a fireplace and a broken table in the corner. A hallway connects to it and leads into seperate rooms.

Zack speaks up.
"We should split up and search the rooms."

I nod.
"Agreed. We'll be sure to find it faster if we do. But not alone."

Leanna chimes in.
"It could be dangerous. Someone is using cloaking magic to mask the heightened energies of the crystals. That doesn't sound like a regular thief to me."

That explains why I haven't felt anything out of the ordinary. Must be powerful magic if it can deceive even my senses.

Zack speaks up again.
"We'll go in groups."

Kara chimes in.
"No need, I think I've found it."

Kara grins as she stands on top of a throw rug in the back hallway.
She stomps twice over the rug and I hear a muffled hollow thump. Then she steps off the rug and stomps again which reveals a much thicker sound.
"I believe we've found ourselves a way down."

I'm suprised.
"How did you find that so quickly?"

She cocks her head slightly sideways.
"This house is literally falling apart and there are no other decorations besides this rug. That's pretty suspicious, isn't it?"

She kicks at the rug which slides away to reveal discoloured wooden panels. A hatch nestles into the wood.
Zack pulls on the latch and the door swings upward. We peek inside and a handful of young faces stare back at us.
Their hair is matted and dirt streaks their cheeks. I take a curious glance at the rug. It concealed their presence to me.
Once the suprise wears off, they pull back from the entrance and retreat further into the basement.

Foregoing the ladder, Zack jumps into the basement.
Leanna follows him down, and unlike Zack, lands lightly and gracefully on her feet. That must be her magic at use.
Amelia takes the ladder down, as does Kara who jumps off once she's closer to the ground.
I've jumped deeper. Like back in the Sith Academy, down from the second floor.
I leap into the basement and land on my feet. I use the Force to dampen the impact.

The rest of the team already has the children cornered beside a glowing pile of crystals. I count five of them as they huddle together.
Zack stands with his arms crossed, blocking the kids from trying to run.
Kara stands beside him, her usual grin replaced with a grim expression.
Amelia inspects the crystals while Leanna kneels by the kids.
I keep myself in the background and observe, for now.

Amelia speaks up first.
"I can confirm that these are the crystals we are looking for."

Leanna turns to the kids.
"Where did you get these crystals?"

The children look uncomfortably amongst each other.

Leanna notices this, too.
"You don't have to be afraid. I'm a Mage-Knight, see? I'm here to help."

She gives them a soft smile as she shows them her insignia.
Some of the younger kids hang their heads, but an older boy straightens up and puts on a defiant scowl.
"We didn't do anything wrong! We did exactly what the other man said!"

"What man?"

He clenches his jaw and refuses to speak.

Leanna crosses her arms.
"Please, let me help you."

As the kids refuse to talk, Leanna looks helplessly back at us. Kara gently pulls Leanna to her feet and leads her away.
"These kids are obviously alone and afraid. They're not going to talk to guards."

"I'm not a guard."

"To them, you may as well be."

Kara leans down and addresses the older kid.
"You've got a nice pile of crystals there. Are you looking to sell them?"

The boy crosses his arms.
Kara reaches into her purse and pulls out a coin.
"I'd like to buy one off of you."

The younger children stare hungrily at the coin and cast questioning glances at the boy. He eyes the coin longingly but looks uncertain.
"We can't sell it to you."

"Why's that?"

He quiets down again, but a younger boy pipes up.
"He'll get angry if we don't have enough."

"The man will? Does he take care of you?"

The first boy protectively pushes the younger boy back.
"He gives us money if we give him crystals."

"These kinds of crystals?"
Kara points to the pile.

"Any! The bigger ones get us more coins but they're all out of them now."

"And that's why you've been taking lamp crystals?"

He looks away and doesn't answer.

The more I hear the less I like it.

Kara smiles warmly.
"It's okay, I won't tell anyone if you don't."

The boy looks back at her.

"So, what does the man want with the crystals?

"I don't know. He just wants them. A lot of them."

Amelia chimes in.
"We should return the lamp crystals to the guard."

A little girl begins to cry.
"No please don't take them away! The man's coming back soon and he'll get angry if we don't have them."

Kara leans down and pats the little girl reassuringly.
"Don't cry! We won't take the crystals."

"Y-You w-won't?"
She chokes her words out between sniffles.

"Nope! We don't want the man to be angry. He can be pretty scary if he's angry, right?"

The little girl calms down a bit and nods vigorously. She slips her hand into the older boy's hand and he squeezes reassuringly.

"Tell me, when is the man coming?"

The older boy answers again.
"He comes at the end of the week… so tomorrow evening…"

Leanna pipes up.
"And he meets you here?"

He nods.

Leanna looks back at the rest of us.
"We should go."

Kara nods.

We're grim as we exit the house and make our way back towards the inn.
Those kids… It's obvious they're orphans. What happened to their parents?
Why is there no foster system or orphanage to help them?
Glancing at Kara, she looks equally pensive and disturbed by the childrens unfortunate situation.
I clench my fists. This is the exact reason I fight. I want to create a world where children can grow up without fear, happy and content.
I will create such a world. If the Empire and Republic have a place in that world is up to them.

Zack suddenly speaks up and rips me out of my musings.
"We'll have to camp out at their hide-out tomorrow evening and see when the man shows up. Then follow him and see where he's going and what he's doing with the crystals."

Leanna furrows her brow.
"I really can't imagine what he could want with all those crystals."

I have a few theories in mind, but they are extremely far-fetched and quite dark. I keep them to myself for now.

Amelia places a finger to her lips in thought.
"It is a very perplexing situation."

"Well, I suppose there's no dwelling on it now."

I speak up.
"What do you think will happen to those kids?"

Zack shrugs.
"Probably get sent to an orphanage."

"I'm suprised they aren't already in one."

"They're just trying to survive."

Kara is unusually silent this whole time.
"Are you okay, Kara?"

She immediately perks up and flashes me a smile.
"Of course, just thinking about our next plan of action. I'll be heading out early to see if I can get more information on where to go next so I better get some rest."

Leanna chimes in.
"Rest seems like a good idea for all of us."

As we reach the inn, we all say our goodnights and head to our respective rooms.
Thoughts of the children disturb me, and it takes me a while before I inevitably drift to sleep.

A/N: Sorry again for the long wait. Main reason this time is that I've written most of the chapter, only to loose the data and had to restart from scratch.
Especially my original conversation on the train took me a long time until I was satisfied again.
Merry Christmas and happy holidays to everyone still sticking around.
I promise that progress will come, I just can't say when.
As always, feedback is welcome.
Until then, cheers.

Foxy: If you're still around, sorry I couldn't reach out to you sooner. You don't seem to have a link to your profile.
Thank you for your Review. But this is ultimately the story of the game. I try to include original moments that warrant the Star Wars crossover, but again, this will follow the game quite closely. I considered this when I started to write this story, but Imperius is a calm, collected and cautious character. He wouldn't rush around doing something rash, so I think the story of the game itself is the course he would take as well.
I have plans and ideas that come after the ending of Crystalline, but it will take a long time to even get there.
All in all, I try to throw in original content and do a twist or two, but in the long run, it's sticking to the game plan. I hope that doesn't set you too off.
And yes, I got PixelFade's okay for this. I made sure to ask them before I started writing. :)