Crystalline Entity - Alternate Record

by Cpt. Lynx

This is the story of how Darth Imperius, the Emperor of the Eternal Alliance, found himself on Terra. Burdened by the ghosts of his past, will he be able to fulfil his purpose and find happiness, or will the darkness consume him? As a fair warning, this contains dark and mature themes in much greater detail than the other version, so discretion is advised.

6. Days 5 & 6: Next stop, Bazada

A/n: I realized I first updated this chapter without a note, oops. Well, I hope you're all doing alright. This month certainly has been... a time. Well, I believe you're not here to talk about current happenings, but I do hope you're all safe out there, wherever you are. And that you have fun reading this chapter, that it may give you at least some amusement. I'll see you hopefully again next month, and thank you all for reading.

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Awakening to the clinking sounds of someone getting dressed in metal, I groggily open my eyes, a scratching sound escaping my throat.
Warmth casts over me, and I realize Leanna is smiling at me.
"Good morning, Xerath. How did you sleep?"

I blink my eyes into focus.
"Leanna...? Ah, right. Good morning."

I sit up and stretch.
"Like always, I think. Though I feel much more rested than usual. I assume I have to thank you for that."
I smile at her as I rub some sleep out of my eye.

She positively beams at me.
"That's lovely! You're welcome."

I blink.
"What is lovely?"

"That you slept better than usual as a result of my effort."

"Ah, I see."
I smile warmly.
"Well, I think that was a given."

She arcs a delicate brow.
"Oh?"

I stretch my arms up high again, the sleeves I didn't bother to pull down yesterday rolling themselves back in place as my gloves float up to my hands.
"Well, you have this calming effect on me, and given how well I slept... the day before yesterday..."

I scratch my cheek.
"Well, point is, I can sleep really well with you around."

She smiles at me.
"I'm glad."

I glance at her a bit timidly.
"And you? Am I making you any trouble? I assume it must be unusual for you to share a room with a man like this..."

She regards me with a warm expression.
"It is. I trust you."

I blush a bit.
"Ah. I see."

I close my eyes and smile.
"I'm glad..."

She pats my head, then moves to a stand.
"Well, we should probably get up now."
She stretches.

Still sitting on my bed, I tilt my head and look up at her.
"What do you mean?"

I vanish from view. In the next moment, I stand behind her, my gear in place.
"I'm already up."
I smirk at her.

She only smiles in response.

"Shall we get going, then?"

"Yes."

And so we leave the room and head downstairs.

"Any chance you'll hold onto my arm again?"
I ask this with an amused smile. I know she'll likely say no to that.

"At an opportune time, maybe - the festival was an exception."

I am only slightly disappointed.
"Alright, I understand. I wouldn't want to embarrass you, either. But on the other hand, I had an idea earlier. You still don't like it that we go against the Academy's orders, right?"

"Right... where are you going with this?"

"Well, I wonder... would there be a way for the Academy to sanction our trip? If, like, they would see that I am more than enough to protect their precious prodigy?"

"I don't think so... from what I saw, Amelia was having trouble getting on sanctioned trips as well."

"Well... that's true. I wonder why, though..."

She nods.

I smile slightly, mischievously.
"Still, would be fun to see their reactions if I'd challenge the entire Mage Academy and win."

"Perhaps. Do you think it's a good idea, though?"

I shrug.
"Eh, doubtfully."

"Yeah. That's what I thought."

I tap my chin.
"Though it depends on what my goal here is, really. To keep a low profile? Horrendous idea. But if I were to build up another powerbase... the idea would have potential."

"Do you... want to build a power base?"
She is hesitant about the idea.

I shake my head.
"Not really. It's just an idle thought."

"I see."

"Maybe this planet would be better off with me at the top... but you seem to do rather well on your own. Well, at least now."
I frown.
"Have I mentioned that I'm not a fan of this Southern Dominion?"

"Perhaps, but you have many planets to administer. Either you give all equal time and need to appoint others anyway, or you give Terra disproportionate time and neglect the others."

"True. I'd have to figure out a system to somehow integrate Terra into the administrative network of the Alliance."
I shrug.
"Or I'll leave the Alliance in the capable hands of my council."

She decides to switch topics to my other statement.
"You dislike the Dominion?"

I nod.
"Yes."

"Why is that?"

"When I read your history, I felt the urge to send an orbital strike bomb their way."

She frowns.
"You would've killed many innocent people. Just like Esaria, the millennia have wrought changes upon the island alliances."

I roll my eyes.
"I am aware. What do you think about why I haven't done it? Their crimes lie long in the past. Their current inhabitants cannot be held accountable for the deeds and misdeeds of their ancient ancestors."

"Were they misdeeds if they were the best of their time?"

I frown.
"Still, though... I dislike them because they are directly responsible for millennia of warfare on Esaria! They destabilised the Empire and toppled it, but instead to organise the chaos in the aftermath, they just left everyone to themselves and ignored the struggles of the people. They changed oppression and tyranny for utter anarchy. That is replacing one evil with another, as far as I can tell. They were not better than the Empire they destroyed. Not in the slightest."

"Perhaps not. No one then was, though. The other politically sound option for that time period was to maintain the structure of the Empire as a puppet government paying tithes to the Dominion. The idea of liberation did not exist yet."

I mellow a bit.
"I see... Still, though. I don't like it. It's too eerily similar to the situation back at my place..."

"They weren't acting out of heroism - few were really heroes in that time. They acted because the Empire was a threat - and that is all we can ask of a kingdom that existed before the idea that people were a part of a kingdom."

"I suppose you're right. But still... that the symbolism would be so similar as well..."
I shake my head and let my gaze drift across the downstairs tavern we've finally arrived at.

We sit down at an empty table. Zack arrives soon after.
"Good morning, Zack."

Zack nods towards Leanna's smile.
"Morning."

I smile as well and speak just after her.
"Good morning. How are you?"

"Fine. Is this yours?"
He holds up a blue blob.

"Poi..."
Ceru seems annoyed at being caught.

I smile brightly.
"Ceru!"
I hold my hands out for him.

The blob jumps into me and snuggles in. Leanna joins in the patting.

"Hey, little friend. I missed you. Where were you yesterday?"

"Yes, where were you?"

Ceru... blushes?
"Poi, poi poi."

Zack only shakes his head slightly.

I tilt my head.
"You... lost us?"

I shake my head.
"Eh, it doesn't matter, I suppose. What matters is that you're back now."
I pat the pango's cool and smooth head.

"Poi."
He smiles.

I give a short smile to Ceru, then look back up to Zack.
"I hope he hasn't given you too much trouble?"

"No, when I woke up he did startle me, but he wasn't doing anything."

"I see. That's good, then."

"I checked my dischargers. He hadn't been eating them... yet."

I nod.
"Good. I think he got the message after yesterday."

"Yeah."

"So, would you want to join us in breakfast while we wait for Amelia?"

"Sure."

Leanna shakes her head, however.
"She shouldn't be long - we should eat on the rail."

"Oh. Okay, if you say so."

As she said, Amelia arrives not long after.
"Greetings."

I smile at her.
"Good morning, Amelia. How are you?"

She regards me with an impassive expression I am all too familiar with.
"I am well. I trust you slept effectively, and did not exhaust yourself on the festivities last night?"

I blush and scratch my cheek, throwing a glance at Leanna.
"Uhhm... let's just say that I'll manage."

She is silent, analyzing my response for a moment.
"...Then we are all ready to depart?"

Leanna smiles brightly.
"Absolutely."

Zack only nods.

And I nod as well.
"Positive."

I stand up and offer Leanna a hand and a smile again.
She accepts it with a smile that would dazzle the sun, and stands.
"Then let's go."

My gaze lingers on her for a moment, before I remember that there are others around, and snap back.
"Yes. Let us go."

We head out the door and make our way through the city. I take another good look at the sprawling buildings that remind me of the Spire on Zakuul, the different levels are interwoven almost artistically. After taking a deep breath of the fresh morning air, I turn to Leanna.
"Hey, Leanna? Do we want to get a map on the way, or can we get one in Bazada as well?"

"We should get one in Bazada. We're on a schedule right now, but after we arrive there'll be plenty of time to burn."

I nod.
"Gotcha."

Soon, we reach what looks like a train station to me. Stands fill the area, selling all sorts of things to people who will not be here long. It reminds me of the Corellian Rocket Tramp, only with less automation.

"Excellent. We are here about a minute ahead of the schedule."

I blink at Amelia.
"You really planned this through, didn't you."

She nods, smiling slightly.
"Yes, I did. Thank you for your acknowledgement."

I just shrug.
"Eh, don't mention it. So, let's find us our train. Though we need some tickets before, right?"

Amelia passes them around.

I blink again.
"Well, thank you."

"As you said, I made plans."

"You seem to like efficiency, huh? At any rate, the tickets are much appreciated. I'll be sure to return the favour soon."

"How so?"

I shrug, then smile at her.
"I'll find something, once we've got to know each other a bit better."

"Affirmative."

I just smile at her for a moment longer, then look around the station, before settling on the tracks. The first thing I noticed about the tracks is that they are lined with Wind and Earth crystals. I blink.
"Oh?"

Leanna walks up to me.
"What is it?"

"These tracks... how do they work?"

"The train floats above them, held in place and propelled forward by wind and earth magic interacting between the tracks and the train."

I draw a hand to my chin.
"Okay, sounds like it's emulating the effects of a repulsor lift with magic... but how? How does that work? Is there a mage piloting the train, controlling the processes?"

She smiles.
"No, actually."

I blink surprised.
"How so? Then how is it operating?"

"Based on its existing spellcraft. The crystals are autonomous, controlled mechanically from the cabin by changing their position."

I blink again, confused. The concept to use magical tools mechanically is quite alien to me.

Leanna seems to notice my expression.
"Is something wrong?"

"Well... I don't know... I think 'wrong' is not the right word, though... I'm just... really confused on how that could work. Magical tools without a mage to supervise them... to use them mechanically? Less open-minded individuals from my society would consider this blasphemy."

"Well, it's simple in concept. Basically, the crystals power simple spells that detect the orientation of mechanical components. Based on the orientation of the crystals, the effect of the spell changes - specifically, the angle of the repulsive force changes."

"I see... so, I assume these wind crystals bring the lift, and the earth crystals are used to keep the train on track?"

She nods.
"That's right."

"Interesting..."
I continue to study the tracks until the train pulls in.

The train floats in on its cushion of magic, with all the mechanical grace of a repulsorlift craft. I blink up at the train, once again floored by the aesthetically pleasing design of a sleek bullet train. Then, I narrow my eyes and study the interior mechanical design. Along the floors, gears and levers and chains and magic connect each car together and affect the way the repulsive force works. In case something is on the track, the train can rise several metres, for example. Fascinating... blasphemous for Force purists... but fascinating nevertheless. To think of what they could do with this once both their technology and magic advanced further...
I can see it only going two ways. Either they become a true force to be reckoned with, surpassing everything I know... or they become a master of none. But given how their very planet and star system is structured... they're set up for greatness. Deliberately so...

I shake my head.
"So, we good to board, right?"

"Not yet."

The doors open, and people get off the train.

"Ah, right."

Another train from the opposite direction comes into the station while we are waiting, and does the same.

I lean back a bit, relaxed, and wait for our turn to board. It is not long before that occurs. We move towards the doors, and an attendant takes our tickets. Then, he holds his hand up.
"Sorry, no pangos allowed."

I blink.
"Ah, right. Energy sensitive equipment and such, huh?"

"Yeah."

Leanna frowns, and puts Ceru down.
"I'm sorry, Ceru. This is where we have to leave you behind."

She is sad about it, but gives him a pat and wave, and enters the train.

Ceru doesn't understand.

Amelia smiles.
"Enjoy your free time in Illumia, little one."

Zack grunts. They both enter the car.

I sigh deeply.
"I... did not expect this to be so difficult."

I squat down in front of Ceru and speak softly.
"Look. Officially, you can't join us on this train."

I then smile mischievously.
"But I know you are a scrappy and resourceful little pango. You have a knack for finding us again. So, just do whatever. If we were to find you again on the train... well, we wouldn't know about it."
I wink.

I then stand back up.
"Farewell, Ceru. May our paths cross again sometime."

I pat him one last time and then head into the train.

We walk through the train until we reach our car.

Amelia opens the door, only to shut it quickly.
"Impossible."

I glance at her with thinly veiled worry.
"Is something wrong, Amelia?"

"Impossible."

I peer over her into the cabin, reaching around her to open the door. The fact she barely reaches my chest in height helps in this task. And now, staring back at me is a pango that found our room before we did. I blink, then smile brightly.
"I expected that, but not so fast. Most curious."

We make our way inside and close the door, before someone notices the pango. I peer around the cosy cabin, noticing red plush seats, a rack above the seats to hold the luggage, and a rectangular table in the center, as well as a pango bouncing happily on the seats. I smile impressed at Ceru.

"Poi!"
He settles into the space between Leanna and me.

"I expected you to find our cabin... but how in the Force did you find it even before us?"

"Poi."

"Fascinating..."
I nod sagely.
"You truly are a pango of many talents, Ceru."

He smiles widely at me. And I, in turn, smile warmly and pat the adorable blue blob.

Leanna smiles as well.
"I'm glad you're back, Cerazu, pirate of the high skies."

He growls adorably.

Our hands touch as we pet him. Leanna doesn't seem to notice, but I once again see a child in Ceru's place.
I was just about to say something, but completely freeze up as I blush up a storm. In order to save face, I turn my face towards the window and put a hand in front of my cheeks and mouth.

Amelia cocks her head.
"Xerath, your face turned terribly red."

I silently click my tongue. So much to saving face.
"I am aware."

"Is there a reason for this? Do you get sick on trains, or does it have something to do with the hand you just touched?"

I continue to blush, practically radiating warmth in the small compartment.
"...the latter."

"I see. Then-"

Leanna stares at Amelia, somewhat unimpressed.
"I don't think he's enjoying this. Do you?"

Amelia blinks.
"I was studying the situation. Was something wrong?"

I glance at Leanna.
"I appreciate you stepping in on my behalf... but I am merely embarrassed."

I turn back to Amelia.
"So no, nothing is wrong. At least not from my point of view."

Amelia smiles, and Leanna puts a hand on my shoulder.
"Alright. Just don't be afraid to tell us when you aren't happy."

"Do not worry. I will tell you in case I'm uncomfortable."

She smiles at me. That does not help my blush.

Amelia takes the initiative.
"So, may I ask why?"

I focus back on her.
"A certain kind of thought came to my mind. One that made me flustered."

"What sort of thought?"

"About a possible future."

"You are being evasive."

"Yes. I don't quite want to spell out the exact thought I had."

"I see. I will therefore need to assume it involves coitus."

Zack coughs, and Leanna blanches.
"AMELIA!"

I flush brightly, but can't really say anything about that, since she was technically correct. Instead, I just shrink into my seat, proceeding to heat the air in their cabin by a few degrees. Huh. I really wish I knew I was capable of generating this much heat. Would've been convenient on Hoth and Ilum.
Leanna looks over at me, and blushes herself. Amelia seems proud of herself.

Eventually, I mumble something in Amelia's direction.
"... part of it... not quite..."

That brings her to raise an eyebrow.
"Oh?"

I take a deep breath. Force, there's no ventilation in here, either. The spreading scent of Leanna isn't helping.
"I... I pictured Leanna and myself... in the future..."

The focus gained from that breath doesn't last, so I take another one.
"...with a child..."

"I see."

Leanna blushes, but can't help but make a sound.
"Aww..."

I glance at Leanna with hope in my eyes as she makes that sound.
"Well... I did say I think you'd make a great mother..."

She blushes brightly.
"Ahhh..."

Now there are two useless blushing heat generators in the room.

"Interesting."
Amelia studies us.

I look at her.
"Huh? W-what is it?"

"You both seem embarrassed by the concept, and yet you spoke of it and are not irritated by it."

"Well, yeah, this is r-rather embarrassing to think about for me, even more so to t-talk about it... but why should I be irritated by it?"

"I see."

I tilt my head in confusion.
"No, really, why should I be irritated by it, Amelia? Why did that surprise you?"

"Normally, when people are incapacitated, they do not appreciate it."

"Well, perhaps, but it is a rather happy thought, no? I am somewhat irritated that I get this flustered about it, yes, but that has nothing to do with you, or Leanna - only with myself. So there is no reason for me to vent that frustration at you."

She nods, before regarding me with her inquisitive stare again.
"I see. And the main embarrassment is the idea of the child and not the act of creating it?"

I managed to calm myself a bit, focusing on Amelia. But that just went straight up out of the window, and my blush comes back with a vengeance.
"...I... hadn't... I hadn't th-thought... about t-that... at all..."

Leanna can only make a cute, small, alarmed sound.
"Meep!"

Even as flustered as I am, I mutter softly.
"...adorable..."

"Interesting. You had not yet considered that? I see."

Flustered Xerath and Leanna continue to produce heat in the small cabin, so much so that Zack opens the window in slight annoyance. It takes a few minutes where I stew in my own heat, until I manage to form coherent thoughts, much less sentences.
"S-say... Amelia? Have you... uhm... have you... eaten breakfast yet...?"

"We will call breakfast to this cabin, yes. While this happens one of us should stow the pango."

I nod, focusing my thoughts on the task at hand. I've become rather good at that over the years, at least.
"I'll take care of that."

Leanna nods.
"...sounds good... his name is Ceru by the way..."

"I shall remember that."

"Yeah... and he's quite the loyal friend."
I pat the pango.
"Ain't that right?"

"Poi!"

"He's also quite intelligent. That actually brings me to a question... has anyone figured out their language so far?"

"As far as we are aware, it is not a language - but it is close. It's inflection-based, and not terribly effective for humans. We'd need a mage specialized in translating it."

"Well, yeah. But they clearly can communicate with each other like that - and understand our language on top of that. So, as long as they have a method to it, it can be learned."
I smile confidently.
"It will be learned."

"That sounds good."
Leanna smiles. Force, she is radiant.
"I'd love to know what he's thinking."

"Well, why don't you just ask him? I think he's rather good at expressing himself."

"Poi poi!"

I pat him while smiling at Leanna.
"See?"

Amelia stands.
"I will go ask for food. You two should stow him somewhere."

I nod.
"Got it."

She exits.

But Leanna blushes again.
"Soooooooooooo..."

She looks so adorable like that, but I wonder why she suddenly reacts like that. I can only blink at her.
"Yes?"

"Yeah..."

I tilt my head, not understanding what she's trying to get at. And I do not want to read her thoughts to find out, since she's quite much against that.
"What is it? Are you unwell?"

"You... hadn't yet considered what a child meant... and yet you were still embarrassed?"

"Ah... yes... Is that... weird?"

"Somewhat... I... hadn't expected that..."

"Hadn't expected what?"
I continue to tilt my head to look at her.

"That the reason you were embarrassed was... so simple... so nice..."

"Huh... Well... to be honest, I never quite could picture myself as a family man... so that there was suddenly this thought popping up like that... it flusters me..."

"I see..."
She smiles at me, like the angel she so clearly is.
"Well... regardless of how the idea makes me feel... I think that your reaction is... beautiful."

I blink.
"You... you think so?"

She nods, blushing.
"You deserve to have something to look forward to, Xerath."

I look at Leanna, but glance at Zack as well.
"Well, I'm not the only one... But yes, I'm rather glad I have found something to look forward to as well."

Zack is trying to ignore the situation. Leanna smiles.
"Sorry about that, Zack."

"Yeah... sorry. I know you're not too comfortable with... these things... Or rather, you're easily annoyed."
I sigh.
"Well, I better hide Ceru then, huh?"

"Yes."

I look at the blob.
"Alright, Ceru. I'll hide you for a bit, so that the people running this train don't freak out. So, just remain calm and quiet for a bit. I'll tell you when it's clear again. Got it?"

"Poi."
He nods.

"Good boy."
I pat him. Then, I channel some energy around him. One part to hide him visually, one part to hide his sounds, and another part for him to eat. He chomps.
Effectively, the pango vanishes from sight between Leanna and me.
Then, I relax back into the comfortable seat, waiting for food to arrive. I don't quite know why - was it because I haven't gotten enough sleep, or because my meltdown earlier burned so much energy - but I feel a bit exhausted and close my eyes.

Food arrives soon after Amelia does, and we finally have breakfast. I have quite the appetite again, but eat as methodical and regal as always.

When the danger of being found out passes, I lift the concealment off of Ceru, but let him continue to chomp on some energy.
I pat him.
"There. We're in the clear again."

Amelia blinks as he suddenly reappears.
"Huh?"

I smile.
"I had hidden him, like requested."

"Yes you had, but how?"

"Simple. Optical illusions."

She cocks a brow with intrigue, her intelligent eyes shimmering with a thirst for knowledge.
"Oh?"

"By manipulating... the air around an object in a special way, one can influence how the light will hit the object."

"You are not a Water mage?"

I sigh.
"Just because I like to wear blue, doesn't mean I'm a water mage."

"Why not?"

I shrug.
"Why should it? I wear whatever I like to wear. I won't let anyone dictate my wardrobe."

I glance at Leanna.
"Well, usually."

She blushes, but Amelia is unconvinced.
"I have not heard of a sanctioned mage in robes who is not in proper colours. It isn't arbitrary - being able to tell what kind of mage you are at a glance is important for several reasons."

"Well, I'm not exactly from here."

"But you wear our clothing."

"Yes."
I glance at Leanna again.
"Someone here was uncomfortable with the attention my original clothing gathered."

"I see. How odd. Where are you from, then?"

I focus back on Amelia.
"From the far desert."

She raises an eyebrow.
"Venaeya is subject to the treaty as well."

"Anyways, would you explain to me the reasons why it is important to recognise what kind of mage one is at a glance? Because that reason eludes me."

Whether she notices my attempt to change the topic or not, she seems happy to oblige my request for an answer.
"Law enforcement, for one. Mages are a dangerous kind of individual, and must be regulated."

"I can see that. But why would it matter what colour their robes are?"

"So that one knows what they are capable of."

I look unimpressed.
"So, if there were a mage that would want to slip under the law enforcement, he could simply wear different clothing, or different colours of robes, to catch others by surprise. Or am I wrong there?"

"And once a person out of garb uses magic, there are consequences."

I glance at Leanna once more.
"Really? First I'm hearing of that."

"Your society doesn't have methods for dealing with mages?"

"My society is run by mages."
I shake my head.
"But I digress. So, law enforcement is one reason. What else?"

Everyone has stopped talking. Amelia stares suspiciously at me.
"Your society is run by mages?"

I sigh.
"Yes."

I look at Leanna.
"I shouldn't have said that, should I?"

She shakes her head.
"No society run by the naturally gifted on Terra has... ever been pretty."

I nod.
"Yes, I learned that much."

I sigh again, then chuckle lightly, self-deprecatingly.
"For someone who once had the designated order to guard ancient secrets and rituals, I sure am bad at keeping secrets."

I sigh deeply once more and glance at Leanna, a bit uncertain.
'Should I... tell them?'

'...don't... so... just say... don't... agree.'

'So, I shouldn't tell them, and just say that I don't agree with their point? Just wanting to make sure, sorry.'

'...don't agree... your home... more acceptable.'

'Then... what am I supposed to do? Actually, if you give me permission, I could aid you a bit more in this telepathy business, so you can order your thoughts better.'

'...nice... start? But... problem... magocracy is Empire... is VOID... is grotkin... no others but elves... elves all magic...'

'I see...'

'...mages... cannot be trust... empire...'

'Yeah... of course that would be your point of view here...'

'...does yours... say else...?'

'Well... the Sith may not be exactly good... but the Republic isn't better...'

'...how Republic and Jedi... how tied...? ...Jedi take children...?... above scrutiny...?... think above normals...? ...think have special... think know about world...?...think other don't...?'

'Yes. The Jedi Order is backed excessively by the Republic. There are laws that test citizens on birth for Force sensitivity, which can then be taken in by the Jedi for training. They do believe it is their duty to guide others. Although perhaps not in the... direct approach of the Sith. However, they generally stay away from politics. At least that was the case so far, though there also have been Jedi that were elected Chancellor. At the very least, they are highly integrated into the society of the Republic.'

'...enough... mages not special - shouldn't be... kingdom need protect from... by us... standards... that enough...'

'Yes. Of course that would be your stance on this...'

'...problem...?'

'For me, though... Well, the Jedi are expected to be self-governed. Their Order is not held accountable to the law of the common man, and individual Jedi have to be excluded from the Order first before they can be officially investigated. And the Sith... well, they kind of are the law. For them, only a higher Sith can tell them what is allowed and what is not. ...That has often led to problems already. Well, problems for normal people, at least.'

'...those sound... same... different levels... care in mages... systems same idea...'

'More or less. One is the separate Order of mages that is somewhat not part of the Republic but still is. And the other is the ruling elite of the Empire.'

'...not good...even if good...easy for one to blame other...division not good... mages in abilities only...separate as necessary...safety... otherwise...normal person...'

'Yes, that sounds like something you'd say. Or, well, think. I get your point, but am still no closer to having my original question answered. Should I tell the two that I am not from Terra?'

'...no...too much question...too little trust... need show you good... then open... only say no agree...practice...mages above...'

'Exactly. I want to earn Zack's trust. How could I do that when I constantly deal in secrets and deceive them? And Amelia knows already, I think.'

'...maybe...he understand secret...though...'

'Okay. So, I should only say that mages are above the normal people where I'm from? That right?'

'...do you think...good...?'

'Do I think that is good? Well... it's hard to tell. That is the only way I've known so far. To see mages treated just like normal people here... is odd to me. I can't quite say if it's better or worse, though.'

'...tell truth...then...that where you from yes...that you never see other...that you not sure...'

'...I see. Yes, I could do that. Thank you, Leanna.'

I look back up at the others, expecting weirded out expression.
"Sorry... uhm... Yes, Amelia, my society is run by mages."

Her gaze is level, and she leans forward slightly.
"Details."

I scratch my cheek.
"I'm not sure how much I'm allowed to disclose on this topic."

"Why."
Her eyes are hard.
"I understand that you might not trust us, but considering what has been shown to you, I think there should not be too much trouble in the disclosure of how your kingdom functions."

I sigh.
"It's not that I don't trust you... But the situation is rather... peculiar. Delicate, even. Your history has shaped you in a specific way - a way that has been shown to clash with my own views. You might not appreciate what I have to say, so I don't want to antagonise you."

"And these are not relevant to the way the world functions?"
She frowns.
"For one who says he does not wish to antagonize us, that was quite patronizing."

An expression of helpless distress flashes over my face, before I quickly smooth it out into practised neutrality.
"Well, what do you expect me to say, then? That I was raised to think the Empire was right? That in my society, mages are better than the normal people? That where I'm from, mages are at least above the law, if not making the law?"

"Do you agree?"

I lean forward.
"Everything I have learned so far, everything I have seen so far, has pointed me in that same direction, yes."

I close my eyes.
"However, things are different here. In more ways than one."

I open them again, this time calmer.
"So, I am not sure if my views and values hold true here."

She nods.
"One of the first things we learn of history in Esaria - across cultures and kingdoms - is Kairos' Peace. An ancient piece of legislation - perhaps the first ever - that the Empire was founded on."

I arc a brow.
"Oh?"

"It lays out the rights of every person, their responsibilities, the ways they should be organized. Even today, it influences laws - it was the first, after all. It was the first Emperor's magnum opus - greater than any feat of magic. For a thousand years, these laws held the Empire together, even when the nobility would not."
She scowls.
"And they. Were. V i l e."

I blink, slightly taken aback by her harsh pronunciation.

"More so than the impersonal, unfeeling character of Kairos' law, there is what they did to Esaria, to its people. For a thousand years, there was nothing. No progress but through revolt, as the magical ground the peasantry underfoot."

I mutter to myself.
"...sounds familiar..."

"The Empire was the most stable period in human history, and it was an abomination."

"Yes. As far as I can tell, the abomination was the fact it was stable."
My bitterness seems to go mostly ignored.

"What little written by rebels in that era describes the death of the human spirit, crushed beneath the feet of gleeful mages."

I lean back in my seat and close my eyes. My fists are clenched and shaking below the table. Only Leanna would most likely notice.
"Yeah... sounds familiar as well..."

"All working in the service of the Emperor, and the God Queen Kairos far in the past who still watched them, in law and - supposedly - in spirit."

"...how similar can things get...?"

"The only way to free Esaria without a larger kingdom to subsume it was war - in endless quantities. Enough to shatter the ancient laws."

"Which eventually happened, when the Southern Dominion staged their incursion."

"So there was war. And the Empire finally shattered. And when the bandits and petty kingdoms could not get along, the people rejoiced."

"Yes, for the tyranny and oppression had been replaced with utter chaos and anarchy."
I open my eyes again, set and hard.
"One evil had been replaced with another."

"Yes, it had. Many died. But for the first time in a thousand years, there was growth. There was change."

"Tell me. What good does growth have, does progress have... when it only leads to more suffering? When in the end, there will be none left to benefit from that growth?"

"What good is stability if it means that the suffering had by all will never end?"

I nod.
"Agreed. I'd rather die on my feet than live on my knees."

I ball my fists again.
"...I won't... not again..."

"Then you understand a bit, surely. That the three thousand years of carnage were better, not because we were happier during them, but because they were closer to the end."

"No. War is not better than oppression. It is just as bad, in a different way."

"No. Oppression does not end unless there is war."

"Wrong. There can always be internal change. Often happening by war, yes, but it can happen."

"When has it, then? When has a regime like Kairos' changed except by challenging it?"

"It is changing right now. Though, not here. Not that you would know about it."

"And how is that happening? What change is happening? Is it real, or has another mage taken power that is interested in different things?"

"You seem to see a mage in charge synonymous with oppression. That is not the case."

"Those who gain power for themselves have... difficulty seeing things in other ways, unless they are made to use their power for others."

"Indeed. However, there are also individuals who can look beyond the possibilities of oppression those powers can give. Those who really want to better their society."

"And how are those created?"

I stare her dead in the eyes.
"By seeing the worst life has to offer, perhaps?"

I then close my eyes and lean back.
"Look, there are many factors that shape an individual and the path they will take. Power is just one of those factors. Just being a mage in charge doesn't make a person an evil oppressor."

"No. It doesn't. When the entire ruling class is mages, however?"

"Even then. Even when they were tyrants in the past... they can change. Without the need for another few thousand years of war."

She obviously has doubts.
"Very... well."

I open my visible eye.
"Be glad you haven't seen anything of it. Neither war, nor oppression. And if I have any say in that matter, it will remain that way."

Something in her expression flickers.
"I appreciate that."

My eye closes again and I nod.
"Now... if that was all?"

"I am somewhat satisfied with that answer."

Leanna's heart... feels like it's trying to reach out of her chest and towards me. Her core warbles with care - but it just can't reach escape velocity.
I stifle a yawn and secretly reach a hand out to Leanna, whilst leaning against the window.

Amelia nods towards me.
"You are tired? Rest, then. We will not be in Bazada until tomorrow."

I lazily open an eye.
"Tomorrow? How slow is this train, please?"

Leanna looks at me.
"Do you have 'kilometres' where you're from?"

"Yes. Sometimes also known as klicks. I think I mentioned that a few days ago."

"Okay. This train moves forty of them in an hour."

"I see."
I sigh.
"I suppose that is fast for your standards. Then Bazada is simply somewhat far away."

Amelia raises an eyebrow.
"You have faster analogues?"

"Plenty."

She once again adopts an inquisitive stance.
"Would you tell me of them?"

I stifle a yawn again.
"Gladly. But perhaps at another time?"

"I see."

I close my eye again, my hand seeking out Leanna's to calm her, and my breathing soon evens out as I fall asleep, leaning against the window. The last thing I notice is the light that reaches out to touch my hand, silently brushing against it. It doesn't do much... but to see her do that is...

...

When I awaken, the warm afternoon sun is casting through the window of the train. I slowly blink open my eyes.
"...uuhh..."

Leanna smiles at me.
"Welcome back, sleepyhead."

I blink a few times again, then my eyes narrow.
"Leanna..? Aren't you a bit... close...?"

She laughs, melodic and clear.
"That can happen when you use someone as a pillow."

My eyes then widen as I notice my position - I'm leaning into her, having my head on her shoulder - and I blush brightly. I all but jump away.
"Oh dear, I'm sorry! I didn't mean to!"

She smiles.
"It was alright. Quarters were tight, and I don't mind."

I relax a bit.
"You... you don't?"

"I don't. You needed somewhere to sleep, and leaning back isn't comfortable for a lot of people."

"Well... throughout the years, I got used to sleeping wherever and however..."

"Then I suppose you just found me and my armour more comfortable than the rest of your surroundings."

"And still... I especially leaned against the window so I wouldn't disturb you... How did I even end up... like this...?"
I blush as I say the last part. Then I scratch my cheek and glance away.
"I suppose I can't argue with that..."

"Well, there was a sharp turn that threw you off."
She scratches my head a little.
"It's alright."

I have to suppress my specific sound.

"Yes... he does seem to like her a great deal. Thank you for your input, Zack."

Zack shrugs.

I blink, then look back to the two.
"Hm?"

"I noted that your behaviour was anomalous, so I asked them about it. Leanna did not speak terribly much, but Zack was willing to share his observations on the subject. You two behave strangely, and I wish to uncover the reasons why."

"Well, in my case, it is simple, I think."

"Oh?"

I glance at Leanna and speak without hesitation.
"I love her."

She blushes.

Amelia raises an eyebrow.
"I see."

I focus back on Amelia.
"Is something the matter?"

"Not terribly. I am just interested in how that works - if only one of you do."

I blink.
"How what works?"

"Your relationship."

Now it's my turn to blush, it seems.
"We aren't in a relationship. Not yet. Though I hope that will change..."

"So you love her despite not interacting beyond that of two acquaintances?"

"Well, I think we're rather friends by now, at least, but yes."

"So you do have a relationship."

"Ah. Well, yes. Not a romantic relationship, but I suppose in the general term, that is the correct word."

"Ah, I see."
Amelia gazes into me.
"You are interesting, Xerath."

I blink.
"I am? How so?"

"Yes. You are strange. I intend to understand you."

I cast my gaze slightly down.
"Yeah... I know I'm not exactly 'normal'... far from it..."

"There's nothing amiss with being abnormal. It makes you a curiosity."

"I see..."
I cannot help but smile.
"Yeah, Leanna has said something similar as well. Thanks."

"Most of us here are abnormal, in some way. Do you think I would deny you yourself when I have also been seen as odd?"

I arc a brow.
"You have been?"

She nods.
"I have. To be the youngest person with mastery over two elements requires one to be strange - to be something that has never been seen before."

I smile slightly.
"Yeah, I get that."

She nods.

Leanna looks outside, having seemingly cooled down from my sudden confession.
"Well, it's still a few hours until we reach Bazada. What do we do in the meantime?"

I blink, startled.
"Wait, haven't you said we would get there tomorrow?"

She smiles warmly, like the sunlight of the afternoon pouring in from the window.
"It is tomorrow, Xerath."

"But... but... how?! How long have I slept, exactly?"

"A little over a day."

I blanch.
"By the Force! And I've leaned onto you for that long?"

"Yes?"

I blush a bit.
"Hasn't that been... uncomfortable for you?"

"Not really. You look very cute when you sleep."

That causes me to blush even more.
"...uuhhh... But... but..."

I pause for a moment as a dark voice speaks to me.
'I prevented your weight from pressing down on her fully, don't worry.'

"...Ah. I see..."
'...Thank you, Nox.'

'Don't mention it. Seriously, don't.'

His presence recedes again.
"Well... if I didn't cause you any problems... I think we're good, then. I'm good. All's good, right?"

She smiles, nodding.
"Yes."

I smile, relieved.
"Good..."

Without a new topic to talk about, silence reigns, giving me time to process what just happened. Why have I slept for over a day? I search my mind and my feelings, and quite quickly find the reason. My mind needed the rest, it seems. The past few days have been very emotionally exhausting, so my batteries needed recharging, I think. Well, that explains that.
With that out of the way, I don't like the silence. I have to do something about it.
"So, it's still a few hours, right?"

Leanna answers me again.
"Yes."

"Does anyone have a game or something, by chance?"

She shakes her head.
"No, I don't think so."

"Hold on, I might have something with me."
As I say that, I go to pat my pockets.

"Oh?"

I search for something and eventually produce a deck of Sabacc cards. I had played a bit with my... friends recently, and haven't had a chance to put away the deck before I got transported to Terra.
"Heh, I knew I still had them with me."

Amelia and Leanna look at the deck with interest.
"What is it?"

"A deck of cards?"
Do they not have cards here?

Amelia nods.
"Yes, but what sort of deck? I do not recognize the symbols."

"Specifically, a Sabacc deck. Unfortunately, we won't be able to play that game here, and I don't really know any other card games. So, I'm open to suggestions."

"Why not? Do you not have the deck?"

"Yes. So?"

"Why then, can we not play this 'sad back'?"

"Ah. Well, Sabacc requires a special table in addition to the card deck. Which I do not have with me."

She regards me with an inquisitive stance once more.
"Why is that?"

"Why is what? That it requires a special table? Well, those tables are... how do I put it? Specially treated? I'm sorry, I don't quite know how to explain it. I'm not exactly an expert on the topic of games..."

"I see. Could we replicate these effects with magic?"

"Unlikely, no."
I mean, I could, but my abilities aren't their magic. And I don't want to reveal them to her yet.

"Well, what exactly do we need?"

I turn to Leanna, exasperated.
'Help.'

She hesitates not.
"I've heard about this game, and while it is done using enchanted tables, they are somewhat complicated. We'd need much more time than we have to create one using the materials we have. There are a lot of things that move cards around the table independent of the players."

Amelia nods.
"I see. I will ask later, then."

I nod.
"Alright."
'Thanks, Leanna. Nice save.'

'...welcome...I aim...please...'

"So... anyone knows what else we can play with a deck of cards?"

"We should first establish what we have access to."

Even disorganized, her thoughts feel so sweet to me...
I try not to dwell on it, especially not her wording.
"Sure. I can give you a rundown of the suits."

"Excellent."

"Alright. So, a Sabacc deck has seventy-six cards, though sixteen of those are special to Sabacc, I think they're not very useful to us."
I put those away.
"And the other sixty cards are divided into four suits."

I lay the cards out.
"There are the Flasks, Sabers, Staves, and Coins. The cards are numbered from one to eleven, with a Commander numbered twelve, a Mistress numbered thirteen, a Master numbered fourteen, and an Ace numbered fifteen."

"Okay, so it's a little like normal cards."

I nod.
"So, when you have similar types of cards, does anyone know a game?"

Leanna puts a delicate finger to her chin.
"Well, we have a few options. If we decide on a suit, we could play hearts. It's simple enough, and we have four players."

Amelia nods, her hairdo swaying with the motion.
"That is an option. I prefer poker myself - more strategy."

Zack shrugs.

I shrug as well.
"I don't know any of those. However, I am willing to learn. And as it sounded, we still got a lot of time on our hands, so how about we do this 'hearts' first, and this 'poker' later?"

"That sounds fine."

Amelia nods.

But Zack seems disinterested.
"Pass."

Leanna frowns.
"Zack, we need four players to do this properly."

I tilt my head.
"How so? Don't mercenaries love card games? The ones I know all do."

"Maybe I don't care about a game without stakes."

"Ahh, that makes sense. So, if we were to play over a pot, you'd be in?"

He looks in my direction.
"I'm listening."

"Let me see..."
I fish in my pockets, producing a hand full of credits and put them on the table.

Amelia looks curiously at the ingots.
"I do not recognize these."

"They are not a currency from here, exactly."

"Interesting..."

Zack frowns.
"Well, if I can't use them, I'm not interested."

My expression reflects my slight dissatisfaction.
"Well... there goes my idea."

"I will pay you for his coins."

Zack looks up at Amelia.
"Really..."

"For every coin of his you earn, I will provide an associated value in Haven Crowns."

I regard her with a cautious expression, a bit vary at the idea.
"It's okay, Amelia. You don't have to."

"I feel that it will be an effective use of my money to increase group morale."
She slams her little fist on the table and looks and Zack with stern eyes.
"And I do not intend to need to pay you, after all."

Now it's a challenge, and he cannot resist.
"Oh really?"

She merely nods stoically.

Zack smiles slightly, confidently.
"Let's do this, then."

"Alright. Now that that's settled..."
I look to Leanna.
"How do we play this 'hearts'?"

"Basically, each person plays a card, playing in clockwise fashion from the first person. You play cards that are of the same suit as the first card if you can, and if you can't you can play anything, unless it's the first round, then you can't play hearts."
She looks around the table to determine whether everyone is paying attention before she continues.
"A round ends when everyone has played once, and we'll sweep all the cards into a pile for use next game. The person who played the highest card goes first next round, and collects any point cards. Those would be the hearts, which are worth one point each, and the Queen of Crystals, which is worth thirteen. Once everyone has played all the cards in their hand, which with four people will happen to everyone simultaneously, the round ends and everyone will tally up the number of points they acquired and add it to their total. The person with the lowest number of points wins the round-"

Zack coughs. She gives him a sideways look, then continues.
"-unless a person has managed to acquire all twenty-six points. If that is the case, then everyone but them gains twenty-six. Then, we shuffle the cards, and the next person deals the cards."

I mince over the rules.
"Okay, so, if I got it right, the goal is to either get no cards of one specific suit, or to get all of them. Right? Although, in this deck, it should be thirty points, shouldn't it?"

She nods.
"Yes, you're right. In this case, we'll also need to decide what suit, though. What suit is most associated with problems in your culture?"

I shrug.
"Sabers or Coins, take your pick."

"Sabers, then. And the Mistress of Coins."

I nod.
"Alright."

"Right, let's shuffle the deck. Deal it all out so we all have an equal amount."

"Got it."
I shuffle the deck, and although I do not have much experience with card games, I can do this rather well. Gault, Nico and Ringo taught me some tricks. Some less respected, too, but I don't cheat. I smirk at Leanna as I do some flashy shuffling moves, then deal the cards one after another.
She smiles at me, but doesn't really seem to understand what I'm doing.

But soon, everyone has their cards, and play begins.
I lean back in my seat and observe my hand, making sure to keep it hidden from prying eyes. I have been dealt a fairly even quantity of cards - a few more sabers than normal, but otherwise, the hand is unimpressive.

Leanna smiles at everyone.
"Alright, I have the two of flasks, so I open with it."

Play moves around the table several times. I collect several hearts as I get the ropes of the game, but they seem to pile up in front of Zack, and he grows more and more irritated - as Amelia seems to catch him at every turn.
"...island-damned luck..."

I tried to not draw any attention to myself as my highly analytical mind is set to observe all the other players and the behaviour of this game, as well as possible tactics involved. Zack's curse makes me arc a brow, though.
"'Island damned luck'?"

"Yeah, it sucks, you know?"

"I get that. But where does that expression come from? I haven't heard it so far."

Zack doesn't know and shrugs, but Amelia speaks.
"It's an old saying referring to the metal isle off the southern coasts of Esaria. If you are from another continent, perhaps you could not see it."

I blink.
"A metal isle? As in, an isle made out of metal?"

"Indeed. Not ore, metal. It is one of the main places where magic cycles through the world."

I draw a hand to my chin.
"Huh... how peculiar..."

"It is. And if the studies that the Academy has performed on it are any indication, the strongest metal ever encountered."

I arc a brow.
"Like the Proxian Iron, then?"

"Sort of. What little we know of it says that they are similar, but when asked about it, the Proxians told us that the island is 'not for any of us'. Us being everyone on the planet."

"Huh."
I smile mysteriously. Not for anyone from this planet, hm?
"I see."

I then shake my head, focusing on the task at hand.
"Well, mysterious metal island or not, we still got a game on, no?"

She nods, her pink hair swaying with the notion.
"Indeed."

I glance at Leanna and Zack.
"My apologies for the... interruption."

Play continues. Zack, as I figure out, goes for power over and over - and Amelia is there to counter him every time.

Eventually, he slams his hands on the table.
"How do you know every single time?!"

"It is not challenging to predict you, Zack. You should work on improving."

Zack seems to be quite agitated.
"I can't improve, because I'm playing with a mind-reading witch!"

I decide to chime in.
"To be fair, she's not reading your mind, but you are rather predictable."

He crosses his arms and grumbles, as victory is once again kept from him.

Leanna looks over at him sideways.
"Are you... done playing then?"

"No."
He picks his cards back up and fills the pot again.

I can't help but chuckle. Leanna joins in, and while Amelia initially keeps a straight face, she begins to smile. Zack, however, is indignant.
"What's so funny?"

"Sorry. It's just... despite being disgruntled, you still keep playing. We're not laughing at you, promise, just at the situation."

He grumbles, and the next hand is dealt.

Eventually, the switch is made to poker. Several hands of that are played as well. Zack's 'fortunes' do not change.

In hearts, and even more so in poker, once I have observed enough and fully understood the rules, I am quite the formidable opponent, often playing against Amelia for the win. Especially because poker shares some similarities with Sabacc, which I use to faster familiarise myself with the game.
With time, however, Zack's patience ends, and the games must too. We are not long from Bazada now, about thirty minutes.
The island returns to my mind.

I collect the cards and put them away again.
"Well, thanks for the game. It was rather enjoyable."

I glance at Zack with a slight crinkle of mischief.
"Well, for most of us, at least."

Zack scowls at me.

Leanna and Amelia, however, obviously had fun.
"Good thing you brought that deck, Xerath."

"You will need to inform me how the game it was meant for works sometimes."

I nod.
"I have the feeling we'll get the opportunity to play it sometime. And yes, I almost forgot I had it with me."

I close my eyes and lean back.
"For the next time, though, would you want to know how you can improve, Zack?"

"Play with other people?"

"Pfft!"
I have to chuckle.
"No, I don't think that will work."

I open my eyes and look at him, not unkindly.
"You are a rather straightforward guy, and that mirrors in how you play. You seem to have exactly one approach. And once that is known by others, it becomes easy to counter and exploit."

"It's a game of chance! The chance is the point - you're all cheating."

"There is chance involved, yes. But also lots of skill. The chance is the hand you're dealt with, but the skill is how you play that hand."
I gaze out of the window.
"Heh. Kind of similar to life itself, I suppose..."

"So I'm supposed to make this game more like my job?"

"Depends. How do you approach your job?"

"Do whatever it takes to win."

I nod.
"Kind of like that, yes."

"Regardless of whether it's fun or not."

"I mean, the goal of a game is to have fun, ultimately. But 'fun' can mean a lot of things for different kinds of people. And I think it's safe to assume that losing like that is not fun for you. For me, I have the most fun when those around me have fun as well. And when I win. So, I think for you, the best course of action would be to... hmm... I suppose experiment with different strategies and approaches. I think that without becoming spiteful and moving at the edges of rules to sneak in wins, it should be more fun for everyone."

"Well, let's just say that doing whatever it takes to win normally isn't fun for me. Or those I am playing with."

I nod once more, understanding quite well what he means.
"Yeah... I get that. So, in the case of games, I'd suggest for you to try other approaches aside from the one you've done so far, as you've seen where it leads. Especially in the case of this poker, you have to play your opponents just as much as you have to play your cards. Of course, it's not that important in a friendly round like this, but I hated to see you so disgruntled all the time."

He sighs and looks out the window.

I smile at Zack.
"You may still not trust me - not fully at least - but you are a part of my group again, and I care about you and your well-being. So, if you want to learn some tips and tricks... I'm always willing to share. Okay?"

"Sure."

His reply is lacklustre, but I don't push any further. I nod and lean back into his seat, pleased with myself. Zack may seem to have brushed me aside just now, but I know that he'll mull over these words on his own accord.

Leanna pats the pango, and everyone scoops up their earnings. Well, everyone aside from Zack.
I pocket the winnings, smiling to myself as I have a vague idea of what to do with those. Then, I close my eyes and fold my arms, putting them in the sleeves of the other arm each. With the new information I received, my curiosity is peaked, and I send my mind probe in the direction of this mysterious island.

It takes little time to find it - as a unique physical feature and nexus of Force energy, it is obvious. It is like a tall mountain askew, a wide pillar of metal that reaches down into the depths at an angle shallow enough to walk on - if it were rock. And yet it is clearly not a mountain - mountains widen as one approaches the base. This does not. The metal shines bright in the evening light, the sun about an hour further into the day than where I am. The metal, however, is not one I've seen before. The only material anything like it... is Beskar.
Back in the train, I mumble something quietly to myself.
"...fascinating..."

I analyse this most curious metal and wondrous island some more. It is definitely the same sort of material as beskar - in fact, it seems that beskar might be a stripped-down version of this stuff. Its properties are heavily obscured - I can't even see the atoms - but from the fact that this pillar reaches kilometres down before striking the ocean floor, I know it must be incredibly strong as a building material.
"...most peculiar..."

Around it, magic flows. In, and out of the Force. In, out. In, out. In. Out.
Like something is breathing.
I focus on this process. How is it flowing? Where is it flowing?

As I search, I eventually find a different patch at the base of the pillar, deep beneath the ocean floor where the rock is like molten plastic instead of solid. There lies something in the shape of a sword, its blade curved like a leaf, stuck into the rock. Within the blade shines a power both deliberately hidden - like I hide myself - and asleep. But still it is bright to me.
"...what?"

I keep my distance. If that artefact is as powerful as it seems, I do not want to wake it lightly. It's slow breathing, sending the power of the Force to and from the afterlife - the Cosmic Force, seems to be a key part of this world's magical ecosystem - though it is no longer necessary. Magic flows across the world now - this was only the first place it did so.
But how so? I continue to watch and ponder as unintrusively as possible.
What I can glean from this without getting too close... is that it is old. Older than this planet. Older than the star it orbits. To my view of the physical, it shines brightly with the markings that were mere traces in beskar. This might be the source of that metal, given how this other metal seems to be growing around the blade.
I can't tell what a sword like this was even designed to do. What was it meant to kill, that such a mighty spirit was interred within it? If I'm willing to risk it, I can feel it faintly dreaming - it may be possible to see the dreams without waking it, but... that seems unlikely to me.
Without a more solid understanding of this world's metaphysical ecosystem, I'll rather not risk it.
However, within it also is a buzz like circuitry - processors smaller than I can comprehend. That this weapon is a Force sword... is but half of its power. Like the spirit - or perhaps because they are the same - these eldritch computers sleep also. Or can I even call them computers? Is this even the same technology as the one that animates the droids and starships of my galaxy? I cannot be certain, without further analysing it, which I cannot risk as of now. At the very least, this marks a location of the highest interest. For now, I return to my physical self. I open my eyes again, and my expression is very... rattled.

Leanna looks at me, worried.
"What is it?"

I blink at her.
"I found something... incredible..."

She tilts her head adorably.
"Oh?"

I move my arms out of the other's sleeve and fold my hands under my nose, my thumbs holding my chin.
"That island of metal... Is very peculiar."

"Indeed it is."
Amelia nods at me.
"You've been thinking about it, then?"

I look at her, though my gaze still doesn't seem to be quite there, as my thoughts are swirling.
"Thinking about it? Yes, I suppose that is one way to word it..."

I feel the sensation of Leanna's sweet thoughts reaching out.
'...what...is...'

'It's... old. Incredibly old. Older than this planet - even older than the star. And at the bottom of this massive pillar of metal... lies a sword. A sword with a ghost inside it. I... I assume it was the impulse that made the Force here as it is, shaped the magic on Terra as you know it...'

'...see...you afraid...? ...seem...shake...'

I blink.
'Afraid? No... not that I know of?'

'...what think...then?'

I glance down at myself, noticing that indeed I am shaking. My surprise is mirrored in my expression.
"Huh? W-what? ... How... how odd... Why...?"

I close my eyes again and take several deep breaths. The shaking stops. When I open my eyes again, I am fully back in focus.
"Okay... that was weird."

She looks at me sympathetically.
'...it okay...'

I lean back into the seat and gaze out of the window.
'Is it? I don't even know what came over me. But yes, I'm fine now. I think.'

'...good...so...what you fear...?'

'I... I don't know. As I just told you, I don't even know what came over me.'
I glance at her.
'I appreciate your concern, but can we discuss this later, perhaps?'

'...okay...hope you know...there for you...'

I smile gratefully at her.
'I know. You have my deepest gratitude, as well my deepest love.'

'...'
No words, only warmth.

Under the secrecy of the table, I reach out my hand to her again.
She grasps it, squeezing it gently.
I send her another smile, before returning to look out of the window.

Unfortunately, we reach our stop very soon. I stand up, along with everyone else, reluctant to part with Leanna's hand.
I stretch as we move to the doors.
"Ahhh... all in all, this travel went over quite fast, huh?"

Leanna nods.
"If you sleep through most of it."

I laugh softly. The sound is somewhat musical... and also off, as if it hasn't been used often. I inwardly have to cringe at that.
"I suppose."

She smiles at me regardless, and we leave the train, entering the crowd of a far more horizontal city.

Amelia speaks.
"I will go see if I can find additional resources for our search."

I turn my focus to her.
"What do we need? Want someone to tag along?"

"No, since Zack is designated to protect me, he will be sufficient."

Zack nods.
"Better do my job."

Leanna nods.
"I'll go browse the markets."

Who do I want to go with?
Heh. What a rhetorical question.
"Would you allow me to accompany you, Leanna? Also, when and where will we meet back up again?"

"We'll meet up in the inn - there-"
She points to a building.
"-At sundown. Good?"

The others nod. I as well. It's much less precise than I am used to, but that's just how things are around here, I suppose.

"Then let's go."

Amelia and Zack leave, and Leanna beckons me to follow her. Oh, I would follow her to the end of the world.
I quickly fall in step with her, sending her a bright smile.

She returns it.
"So, Xerath, do you think you might be interested in anything here?"

"A map."

"Ah, of course, let's find you one."

I smell something flowery in the distance, but it doesn't seem too relevant.

I nod.
"Alright. And after that, we'll go search for whatever you wanted to look for."

She nods, and we weave through the crowds of people. I bump into people every now and then, and my patience is rapidly wearing thin. One of the perks of being a galaxy-wide known figure is that people make room when you pass. But alas, here I am unknown. Just like I once was...

Anyhow, we soon enough reach a small stall selling maps. Maps of various areas, maps of the continent, and maps of the known world.

"Oohh..."
I curiously skim over all of them. I am most interested in detailed maps of as large an area as possible.
There is one map - obviously intended to be on a wall - that is as tall as Leanna is and twice as wide as she is tall, and depicts the entire world.
Wait, is Leanna a unit by which things of value can be measured now?
I grow a bit confused at my thoughts, then shake my head. What I need is a detailed map, at best naming each town and location, so that I can draw connections to my mental scouting of the planet.
This one goes as far as towns of moderate size, labelling known dwarf holds and elven cities as well as human settlements.
I zero in on the location I know at least some names of - the one I currently am at. From those towns and villages I was at, Illumia and Bazada are the easiest to find. The others are too small and thus not depicted. Also marked on the map is the metal island, however.

"Hmm..."
I take a look at other, more regional maps. Especially one of Esaria and Havengarde. That places me more in the right scale. I see Meadowhill represented, and the various terrains I passed through. Raven Pass, however, is not on any map I can find. Well, it did seem like a fairly small settlement.
I turn to my beautiful companion.
"Leanna?"

Her melodic voice rings out as she peers up from the map she was currently looking over.
"Yes?"

"How much..."
I sigh.
"I hate that I have to ask, but how much are you willing to spend on this?"

"A good map is worth a few crowns. Nothing out of my wheelhouse."

"Because, to be honest, I could use most of these maps, up to the large one. But I suppose that one of the kingdom would suffice for now."

"Okay, that's perfectly alright. What exactly do you want it for?"

I gaze her into the eyes.
"Travel."

She blinks.

"Fast travel."

"Meaning?"

I had hoped she'd get the meaning. Oh well, it doesn't really matter.
'Would 'teleport' be more clear?'

'!'

I just smile at her.

"Okay, that makes sense."

I nod.
"The more places I know on a map, the better. But, given how I doubt our travels will lead us too far away currently, I suppose a map of Havengarde would be enough for now. Perhaps one for the other Esarian kingdoms as well, if we want to be on the safe side."

"I see. That makes sense. I'll get you one."

I smile gratefully, but also a bit sheepishly.
"Thank you."

She walks up to the person selling them and gifts them a friendly smile.
"Hello. We were interested in a detailed map of Esaria."

The merchant smiles back.
"Greetings. How detailed should the map be, Miss?"

"As many names landmarks and towns as you have."

The salesman blinks, but then brings one up. It is very detailed in the sense I want.
"Is this acceptable?"

Leanna glances at me for input.

I smile widely and nod.
"This is perfect."

She turns back to regard the shopkeeper. Or is it a stallkeeper in this case?
"We'll take it."

One exchange of money later, I am handed a map. I instantly bury my face in it while we move away. I am aware of Leanna waving goodbye to the merchant, and I lazily throw a hand up as well as we depart, but the map is far more interesting right now.
"Ah, precisely what I needed. Now, whenever we want to go somewhere, we can be there."

"Were you tired of walking places, Xerath?"

"Not really. Walking with you is rather relaxing. But it's nice to have options, you know?"

Her mock suspicion doesn't fade, and I only realise it is there now, causing me to look up from the map and arc a brow at her.
"Is something still the matter?"

"Nothing. Just felt like teasing you."

I tilt my head and blink, thoroughly confused.
"Huh..."

Eventually, I shrug.
"Also, I like to be efficient. And while our newfound way of travelling is absolutely wonderful, it is far from being efficient."

I scratch my cheek.
"I may not seem like it, but I'm not actually a very patient man. I like to get things done as soon as possible."

"I see."
She eyes me.
"Is that why you have so much trouble around me?"

I blink at her.
"Huh? Trouble around you? What do you mean?"

"With how you feel."

"Hmm... It certainly is a test for my patience, I assume. But it can't be helped, can it?"

"Perhaps not."

I chuckle lightly.
"Also, there are many parts that play a role in why I 'have so much trouble around you'. My patience being not my strongest suit is only one of them."

"I see. I hope you aren't having too much trouble."

"Even if I have, I don't mind. This is the best kind of trouble I ever had."
I smile at her warmly.

She blushes lightly.

That only makes me smile more brightly.
"You are so adorable when you blush."

"...umm..."

My smile drops.
"Oh... am I making you uncomfortable again? I'm sorry..."

"No, it's okay..."
Her voice doesn't sound that convincing, though.

I gaze at her with worry.
"Then, what is it?"

"I am uncomfortable...but that's okay."

I blink.
"How so?"
How could it be okay if she is uncomfortable?

"It's okay."

"But how can it be okay if you're uncomfortable? If I make you uncomfortable?"

"Don't worry about it."

I look at her with earnest determination.
"Is there anything I can do to make you feel more comfortable again?"

Her voice sounds more certain now.
"It's alright. I'm alright."

I gaze into her eyes, searching for hesitation or resentment, finding none. Eventually, I sigh and relent.
"Alright... if you say so. I... I don't mean to push you..."

She smiles at me again, even if it's only a small one.

Well, maybe it would be best to change the topic, then.
"So, now that we have the map, where do you want to go next?"

"Well, I don't know..."

"Hmm... Shall we just explore the market, then? See if anything strikes our fancy?"

"That was the plan."

"Alright."
I blush a bit and scratch my cheek as an idea comes to mind.
"Since the market appears to be rather crowded... maybe it would be best to... hold onto each other so we don't lose each other?"

"Perhaps."
She regards me with a coy mixture of a smile and a smirk as she grabs my hand.

I blush a bit more, but smile warmly at her. I slowly move my fingers, asking for permission to intertwine them.
Hers open and interlace our hands.

I smile lovingly at her.
"Well, then, shall we go?"

Her coy smile from earlier has turned a bit more demure as she nods.
"Mhm, let's go."

And so we stroll about, weaving through the crowds, intertwined.
Eventually, Leanna starts.
"Hey, do you smell that?"

The fruity smell from earlier has returned.
"Ah, this smell again. I smelled it earlier already, and was curious as to what it was."

"I think it's this way!"
She starts pulling me in the direction.

With one long stride, I fall back in step with her. And soon, we arrive at a perfume stall.
I stiffen, subtly holding my breath as I turn up my nose. I wonder if Leanna can notice.
"Ah. Of course."

She glances about, soon catching the attention of the shop owner.
"Ah, hello there."

He smiles at her, and picks up a vial, handing it to her.
"A noble scent to match a noble woman."

Her smile twitches, but she lifts it to her nose, smelling it.
She smiles.
"Yes, this is it..."

I tilt my head.
"What is it?"

She moves it to my nose, even if it wasn't necessary. It produces a fruity sort of smell.
"Spirit Orchid Extract, from the Celestial Mountains."

The shopkeep smiles.
"Ah, you have a discerning taste."

"Doesn't smell bad, but what is a 'Spirit Orchid'?"

"A kind of white flower that grows in high places with lots of magic. The roots are a very pale white and when it grows it almost looks like it's floating in mid-air, like a spirit. It's quite rare."
She closes the vial and smiles at it.

I nod. That's actually pretty nice. I'd like to see such flowers myself one day. What would be another mountain to climb for that, right? But this is not about me.
"I see. Do you want to get it?"

"No... it just brings back memories."

I ask tentatively.
"I see... Are those... good memories?"

She smiles softly in remembrance.
"My grandmother always wore it when we went to market. It meant leaving the house with few expectations."

I smile as well.
"I see. That sounds like rather lovely memories, indeed."

She smiles, but there is something else there - sadness... or bitterness.
"They're gone now, but it was good to remember them."

She returns the vial.
"I'm going to go elsewhere."

I squeeze the hand I still hold.
"Do you... want me to come with you?"

She smiles, this time with neither sadness nor bitterness.
"I'd appreciate it, as always."

I return it with a warm smile of my own.
"Alright, then, let's go."

We stroll off into the crowds again. I lead us away, and once we're a distance away from the perfume shop, I exhale loudly.
"Pheew..."

She grimaces.
"Sorry about that... that must've been a lot for you."

"Well, yeah, those smells quite assaulted my nose. But I managed."
My senses are several times more sensitive and effective than those of a normal human, including my nose.

She gives my hand a squeeze, and my breath hitches silently in response. It was already worth it.
"W-well, then, shall we find something else? I t-think I can make out something you'll appreciate."

"Oh? What is it?"

I smile brightly at her.
"You'll see. Come on!"

She follows me, and we eventually reach a stall selling pastries. She sighs happily as she breathes in the scent.
"Ahh..."

I smile at her.
"And? Was I right?"

"You were. I didn't doubt you, though."

We peruse the selection, with me not really knowing what to get.
"Soo... uhm... do you have any favourite?"

She browses around, before her eyes widen.
"They have cinnamon parfaits!"

I follow her gaze.
"What are those?"

They are these cold-ish cream-based treats. Leanna seems very excited about them. I glance at Leanna expectantly.
"You seem like you can recommend them?"

"Yes. They're very good... though for you I'm not sure. You don't really care, after all."

I shrug.
"But it won't hurt to try."

I turn to the shopkeeper.
"Greetings. I would like to purchase two of these 'cinnamon parfaits', please."

The person nods and prepares the treats. Meanwhile, Leanna blinks.
"Are you sure you want to spend your life savings here?"

I glance at her and smile lovingly.
"You have been nothing but generous towards me ever since we met. And I feel bad for letting you pay for everything. So, consider this a small token of my appreciation."

She smiles at me.
"I suppose I can't argue with that."

"Good. Then enjoy the treat."
I hand her one of the desserts, which the shopkeeper holds out with a smile of their own.

She accepts it and the requisite spoon, and digs in.
I hand the smiling shopkeeper the currency and then watch Leanna's expression for a moment, glad to see that happy look on her face, before I try my own parfait.
It is not too sweet, and has a slight spice to it. Not too remarkable to my senses.
"It's... not bad."

She smiles at me.
"I understand. Thank you for getting me this, though."

"You're most welcome. It's just... it annoys me greatly that I have no money... again. Especially given my... current social position, I never had to even think about money..."

"I personally prefer abstract value. You may lack certain resources, but you are still valuable as a person."

"That may be true, but that won't help me buy things."

"Maybe not, but is that so bad?"

"Yes. I don't like it to have to rely on other people's kindness. I... feel like I'm exploiting you with my mere presence..."

"You aren't."

I smile slightly.
"I know that you don't perceive it as such, but it still feels like that to me."

Then, I sigh.
"Also, uhm... could we go somewhere more... reclusive?"

She has a questioning expression, but doesn't ask about it. She knows it's probably important.
"Sure."

I lead us to some less busy side street nearby. Leanna brings the topic back up.
"If you must think of it in terms of transactions, think of it as me paying to keep you around."

As soon as we're practically alone, I lean against a wall and sigh as I slide down, sitting down on the ground.
"Ahh... that's much better."

I am... somewhat exhausted. But regardless, I smile up at her.
"You paying me to keep me around?"

Yet her worried seems to override any response to that conversation.
"What's wrong, Xerath?"

"Ah, well, it's just... I'm not a fan of crowds."

"Ah, I see. Feel better?"

I nod.
"Yeah."

I lean back against the wall.
"This is much better."

"Is there anything you want to talk about while we're here?"
She puts a hand on my shoulder.
"Now seems like a good later, after all."

I blink.
"Do you refer to my findings of the metal island?"

"Yes. Do you want to talk about it?"

I shrug.
"Well, I told you most I know about it, really."

"What worried you?"

I fold my hands in my lap, my expression turning concerned.
"Where does it come from? I mean, that metal is older than your entire star system. How did it end up here? Why is there an immensely powerful sword at the bottom of it? Why does it breathe Force energy? Why is it asleep? What would happen if it wakes up - when it wakes up? And why does it hide its presence like I do? Why is being a Force weapon only part of it? There are so many questions I do not have answers to. That is concerning."

"Is it another of Terra's unique things, then?"

"In a way... But even more so... that thing - that sword... could very well be the reason Terra is so unique in the first place."

That draws an arched brow from her.
"Oh?"

"I said it basically breathes Force energy, right? That is precisely the effect I noticed on Terra as a whole. The magic here is in constant movement... and that movement has a rhythm."

"Then that sword... why?"

"Precisely. Now isn't that the question? And I have no idea for possible answers."

Both the technology and Force use that went into its creation are... far beyond me, or any civilization I have ever encountered information on. The very elements of its construction seem... beyond my understanding. Beyond the capability of any being in my galaxy to understand, even.
I fold my hands underneath my nose again and shake my head.
"It won't do much good to dwell on it."

"Okay."
She sets herself next to me, a comforting distance.

"Can I... lean into you?"

She nods.

I smile slightly, and lean over, resting my head on her shoulder.
"Well, at least this time, I get to remember the feeling."

She smiles and slowly pats my head.
I close my eyes and relax, that chittering sound she finds so adorable returning.

"We can't stay like this too long, I need to check in soon. Local authorities might need my help with something."

"Aww..."
I peek up at her.
"Want me to tag along?"

"That's probably not the best idea in the world, if I'm being honest. They might run checks and discover you're just wearing the robes, and aren't a proper mage - then we might be in trouble."

"Well, if you refer to your scans for magic... I could lift my veil enough to emit the same signature a mage has."
I smile slightly.
"But I understand your concern. It's alright. I'll find something else to do, don't worry. And... I don't want to cling to you too much, either."

"Background checks. There'll be worries that you aren't sanctioned."
She smiles.
"We'll have plenty of chances to do things together down the line, Xerath. I'm sure of it."

"Yeah, I think so, too. It's just... I miss you quite fast, you know?"

"Well, 'absence makes the heart grow fonder' or something like that."
She winks at me.

"Huh... I don't know if I can even grow any fonder of you, though."

"Already? That sounds bad."
She frowns.
"I don't like not being able to do better."

"Well, I mean, my love for you is pretty much absolute. You are the most important person in my life, and I would do anything for you. So, I don't know how you'd want to increase that."

"Hmm... probably not until later, then..."

I arc a brow.
"Hm?"

"Well, there are still a number of things that you haven't seen of me yet - that I'm supposed to save for someone I'm in love with."

I blush.
"Ah..."

She smirks mischievously.

"Y-yes... t-that m-makes sense..."

"I bet you can't wait."
She leans in close.

I shiver. Oh by the Force, what is she doing? She's getting really close. I can hear her breathing. What is she doing?
"N-no, I c-can't. I t-told you I'm in-impatient. B-but you are w-worth it to w-wait."

She boops my nose.
"Well, I have to go. Have fun!"
She stands and gives me a little kiss on the forehead.

I can only blush even more at that.
"You... you are..."

I then sigh and give her a parting smile. I at least have to send her off properly.
"You too. And take care. If you run into trouble, do not hesitate to call for me. I'll be there."

She smiles.
"Of course. Enjoy your day."

She leaves, but the warmth on my forehead lingers.

"You too..."
I remain seated there for a while, stewing in the warmth I radiate. Not that I could leave, given how weak my legs feel right now. I hide my burning face in my hands.
Eventually, though, the bio-reactor that is Xerath cools off enough to function normally again, and I stand up.
"Well, might as well see what Amelia and Zack are up to."

And with that thought, I am off to search for the two. Given my ability to home in on their presences, it's not too difficult to find them. And so I step forth again, striding through the masses.

When I find them, I see Zack leaning against a wall. Beside an alley.
I nod at him.
"Hey Zack."

I approach with a friendly smile.

"Hey."

"What are you doing here, if I may ask?"
I curiously peer into the alley.

Amelia is there, looking at something while mumbling to herself.

"She needed some alone time... I think."

I glance at what she's looking at. It's Ceru.
"Hmm... male, dense, of the cerulean variant..."

She offers him a manipulator.
"Come on."

He tentatively moves closer.
"Poi...?"

"Interesting. Cerulean pangos do not typically hesitate when offered magical ener-"

Ceru leaps at her instead. She stumbles as she catches him.
"Poi!"

"What are you-"

The pango snuggles in, and she smiles softly.

I return my focus on Zack.
"I think you might be right. So, how has your trip been so far?"

He holds up a small bag.
"She's found some of what she's been looking for."

I nod.
"That's good. But how have you found it so far? I mean, sure, you're officially here as Amelia's bodyguard, but you are also yourself, and a member of the group."

He shrugs.
"It's been fine. Those games were alright."

I smile slightly.
"I see. That's good to hear. And have you seen anything that catches your interest in this city yet? The market is quite extensive, from what I can tell."

"Not really. Nothing I want is sold here."

I tilt my head.
"May I... ask what you want?"

"Not really."

I nod in understanding.
"Alright, that's fair. Well... I really hope that I can earn your trust in the future, Zack. I'd love to get to call you my friend."

Zack shrugs.

Amelia comes over to us with a pango clinically placed in her arms. She probably noticed our conversation by now.
"I do believe you could use a break Zack, as could I. I will be going to the apothecary to collect some other supplies - I need no aid."

I smile slightly at her.
"Hello again, Amelia. You want to be alone for a bit, I take it?"

She nods.

Zack speaks.
"Alright. Enjoy."

I nod at her as well.
"Alright, then. Take care, and see you later."

She waves, and strokes Ceru. They walk off. I turn to the pango, wanting to say something, until I notice that he is asleep.

Zack pushes himself off the wall.
"I'm going to the inn."

I nod at Zack.
"I assume you want to be alone a bit yourself as well?"

He shrugs.
"If you want to watch me look at a billboard, feel free to come along."

"Billboard? Like, for bounties and such?"

"Yeah. Like for bounties."

"I see... well, maybe later."
I draw a hand to my chin.
"Taking on a bounty would certainly fall into my set of abilities and help with my financial situation... Hmm..."

In a rare instance, his deep and gruff voice raises beyond stoic neutrality I can almost make out some interest.
"I'll tell you if one comes up that might be your speed, then. Do you have a preference?"

I smirk predatorily.
"The vilest scum that is wanted."

He smirks as well.
"Got it."

"Actually, I wanted to check out the town for a bit more. Do you perhaps want to tag along before we go to the inn?"

He shakes his head.
"Nah."

"You sure? I think I saw some weapon shop or something earlier."

He shrugs.
"Should I care?"

"Well, it just seemed like weapons were a topic that interests you, so I thought you would appreciate that. My mistake if that is not the case."

"No worries. I've just got all I need."

"Well, you do have two fine dischargers, as far as I can tell. And while I have no doubt that they serve you well, I have noticed that there are a lot of additional weapons and gadgets one can use. Especially when one is not a mage."

He nods slightly.
"There are. I have a few of those sorts of things."

I arc a brow.
"Oh? Like what, for example?"

He produces a small spherical thing.
I tilt my head curiously.
No bigger than a grape, but it contains a magical core and some kind of blasting powder.
Zack stows it again.

"What is it? Some kind of grenade?"

He nods again.
"Something like that."

I smile at Zack.
"I see. Yeah, I think you would appreciate Mandalorian training and equipment."

I then close my eyes and sigh.
"Well, alright, if I can't convince you to join me in exploring the town, then I won't keep you up any longer. See you later at the inn?"

"Yeah."
He nods, then walks off.

I sigh once more, then walk off myself. Well, that went differently than expected. However... this perfume Leanna held earlier... Extract of the Spirit Orchid... I wonder if that would be a nice gift for her, perhaps? She seemed happy when she first smelled it, but then her smile turned... sad, or bitter? It might be sad in the way that my memories of Kory are... or perhaps in another way. Well, at the very least, it could serve as a nice experiment on how the locals react to my credits, as I doubt the few coins I earned from our game would be enough for such a rare and 'noble' scent. Thinking of it, I wonder why Leanna seemed to react in that way to the compliment. I meant to ask her about it, but she kind of left me in a stupor before I could do so.
At any rate, I seek out the perfume stand once more.

It is easily found, and I seal my nose once more. I wonder on the way what exactly wearing that perfume would do to her scent - would it cover something I enjoy, or enhance it? I would never know without trying.
I approach the tan shopkeeper.
"Greetings."

He smiles formally.
"Hello again. How is your friend?"

I smile as formally, yet in both our cases it is also genuine.
"I am honoured you remember me. My friend is fine, I think. Off to help the local administration."

"I understand. What have you returned for?"
His smile turns more conspirational.
"Perhaps a gift without her knowing?"

I return his smile.
"Indeed. Quite perceptive. That perfume you showed her - Extract of the Spirit Orchid - seems to be somewhat important to her, for one reason or another. I thought that even if she didn't want to purchase it herself, maybe she'd appreciate it as a gift."

"Very well."
He picks up the vial.
"I shouldn't need to point out that it is quite expensive, but I do accept trades for rare goods."

I lean a bit forward.
"Here's the issue, though. I only recently came to Esaria - a few days ago, to be precise - and as such have not much of the local currency. So, I wondered if you may be interested in the currency of my homeland?"

"Well, let's see it."

I pull out several credit ingots and hand them to the man.

He eyes them curiously.
"Most interesting... what are these coins?"

"They are credit ingots. They form the standard currency in my society. But from as far as I can tell, I am the first of my lands to arrive here, so nobody will know about them."

"I see... do they come in different varieties?"

"Yes, they do, actually."
I pull out some others. There are large, silver ones, medium golden ones, and small bronze ones.

"Most curious... I will accept ten of these as payment, if I may choose which."

I smile.
"Very well. Go ahead."

He gleans his ten, and hands me the vial.
"Good luck. I hope she is worth it."

My smile widens.
"She is worth everything."

I pocket the remaining ingots.
"Besides, I have more than enough of those."

He smiles.
"Well, thank you for the business."

I smile as well and nod.
"Indeed. Thank you for accepting my currency."

I take the vial and pocket it, stealthily creating a sealing box around it.
"Farewell."

He nods.
"Farewell."

I stride away from the stand with a satisfied smile. I weave through the crowds a bit, and my patience is running thin quite fast once more, especially without a goddess to hold on to. I am short of making myself some room, when I think that I spot three familiar adventurers.
I try to keep up with them, and just when I think I have lost them for good, I land in front of a shop. I peer up at the sign, and thanks to Leanna am able to read it: Balin's Dwarvencraft.
"Balin... that was the dwarfen tank from Illumia, wasn't it? Huh, they must've taken the crystalrail as well, then..."

I step into the shop, curiously.
As I enter, I immediately notice the large amount of bladed and blunt weapons, as well as an assortment of shields and armour pieces. I browse around, and the craftsmanship is remarkable. But there are also some other things, as I notice a sublimely crafted piece of a wooden board game.
My gaze turns over the rest of the shop, and I notice two black felines eyeing me suspiciously.
The woman, Lydia, as I recall, notices that and turns around, following their gaze. Her face lights up in recognition and a friendly smile spreads across her lips.
"Oh. Hello... mister Kallig, was it?"

I nod, returning her smile.
"Indeed, although you may feel free to call me Xerath."

"Alright, if you prefer that, Xerath. But I must say, that is a quite unique name. May I ask from where you come?"

What was the country Zack said I look like a native of?
"I have to admit that it is quite unique indeed. Never met someone with the same name before, not even in Venaya."

She hums.
"Venaya, hmm? Well, that makes sense. They do have a flair for extravagant names, as far as I know."

"While we're on the topic of names, I only caught yours on the side. You're Lydia, right?"

Her eyes widen slightly as she covers her mouth with a hand.
"Oh my, I haven't even introduced myself, have I? Please excuse me."

She gives a small curtsy.
"I am Lydia Greenleaf, from the Velden Woodlands."

I raise a brow.
"Velden? Ah, yes, the elven lands, right?"

She blinks.
"Yes, that's right. Not many have heard of us so far, though. The elven state lies beyond the great ocean, in the west, and not many of my kind choose to travel this far. Only recently have some dignitaries and ambassadors come here."

"Yes, I think I've seen one or two in Illumia. But I only have second-hand knowledge at best, so if I may ask, how would you describe your people?"

She brushes a lock of stray hair behind her ear, drawing attention to its uniquely pointedly and long form. She smiles shyly.
"Well, we elves are an immortal race. Time is not our enemy, and we are more resistant to diseases, as well as innately adept at magic. As a society - and individuals - we value nature and the worth of life, preferring peace over violence."

I smile.
"That sounds quite lovely."

She has a wistful expression on her face.
"Velden is rather lovely indeed. I'd recommend you visit it sometime."

"Who knows, I just might. But if… if that's not too personal to ask, why have you come to Esaria, when you apparently like your home that much?"

She shifts uneasily.
"Well... some… some incident beyond my control has brought me here, and even if it is not the life I initially wanted, I am quite happy with where my path has taken me."

I nod.
"I understand. Quite well, I'd say."

Then, I smile.
"To be happy with one's life is the most important thing. I'm glad that you have seemingly found your place."

She returns my smile.
"Thank you. I have found loyal friends - the best I could have ever asked for - as well as the love of my life. I couldn't be happier, even if we have to face some hardships. I know we'll be alright, as long as we're together."

"Do you refer to the dwarven tank and the walking armoury?"

She giggles, and her melodic laughter almost sounds like birdsong.
"Balin and Jaroh, yes. They may have a rough appearance, but they're really gentle souls. Even if Balin would deny that."

"So, I noticed that this shop is called 'Balin's Dwarvencraft'. I presume that this is Balin's shop, then?"

She smiles as her glance wanders around.
"Yes, Balin is the owner of this shop. He built it up from nothing."

"I see. I have noticed that the items here are of an excellent quality."

She nods with a proud smile.
"Yeah, Balin is the best smith I know."

Suddenly, boisterous yells sound from some place in the back.
"Damnit, Jaroh! What have I told you?! Be careful with fanning the flames!"

"Yeah, yeah. Sorry."

Lydia sighs.
"If only he would be half as polite as he is talented."

"Well, I'm sure it's going to be alright. After all, from what little I've seen, you seem to have a good influence on him."

She smiles bashfully and blushes lightly.
"Oh... thank you. But yes, I'd like to think so, too. That is also why we partnered our businesses."

"Oh? You have a shop, too? Wouldn't have thought you to be a blacksmith, given how you said that elves are known for their connection to nature."

She smiles.
"You're right, I'm more of a carpenter, but Balin has taught me the basics of smithing, and I have to admit that it is quite fascinating."

I look her over again, my attention being drawn to her bow, which is carved masterfully.
"A carpenter, hm? Am I right in my assumption that your bow and this wooden game over there are of your creation?"

She blinks in surprise.
"Yes. How could you tell?"

"Well, you said you partnered your businesses, and that game over there appears amiss among the metalworks in this smithy. And since that game is almost as exquisitely crafted as your bow, the connection was easy to draw."

She smiles bashfully.
"T-thank you, you're too kind. But really, I'm not that good."

Just when I want to retort, Balin the dwarf comes from the back, burying his face in his palm and muttering under his breath.
"This Jaroh… how he ever got anything done is beyond me..."

Then, he looks up and notices me. His disgruntled frown eases somewhat, but his eyes narrow in suspicion.
"Oh, it's you again. What brings you to Bazada? Are you following us?"

I hold my hands up placatingly.
"Oh no, not at all. I came to Bazada of my own volition, and was rather surprised when I saw some familiar faces. I am also surprised to see a shop wearing your name."

He relaxes and smiles proudly.
"Ah, yes, of course. Welcome to Balin's Dwarvencraft! I'm Balin, Son of Fundin, Baron of Elendale, and I offer only the best wares! Be it arms and armour, or the finest ale and gold mead, you will find everything to be of the highest quality. But quality such as this has its price, of course."

I nod with a slight smile.
"Naturally. Unfortunately, I haven't been long in Havengarde as of yet, and thus have not much of the local currency. Besides, I wasn't really looking for anything aside from a chat."

Balin raises an eyebrow.
"Oh, is that so? Can I have a look at that currency of yours?"

I shrug and pull out some ingots.
"Sure, go ahead."

Both Lydia and Balin glance interested at the ingots, while Balin scrutinizes them, even biting into them. As he does so, his eyes widen.
"While I doubt they have much worth as a currency here, the sheer material worth of those is remarkable."

I hold out my open palm.
"Yes, as such I'd like to have them back. Without bite marks, please."

He drops the ingots into my hand.
"Ah, don't worry, it's just a custom among businessmen to discern real coins from fakes. No harm done, see?"

True to his words, there is no mark on the ingots. Good. I nod as I pocket them.

Suddenly, a voice from the back grows louder.
"Balin! Balin! I finished the sword!"

The young man - Jaroh, I recall - comes rushing from the back, waving a sword around.

"Aye, I can see that, Jaroh."

Jaroh stops in front of Balin and proudly holds out the sword.

The dwarf takes it and inspects it with a critical eye. He strokes his beard, the entwined gold clinking.
"Not bad, lad, not bad at all. You're getting better."

The young man beams at the praise.
"See? I told you I could do it!"

Balin laughs deeply.
"Haha, that you did, lad. That you did."

Jaroh glances around and notices me.
"Oh, hi. Sorry, didn't see you there."

I wave him off with a friendly smile.
"No harm done. Jaroh, was it?"

He nods. An easygoing small smile places itself on his lips.
"Yeah. Name's Jaroh Hertz. Nice to meet you again."

"Xerath Kallig. Likewise."

Before any of us can say anymore, Balin speaks up.
"Say, Xerath, would you be interested in any of my wares? Perhaps in personalized gear? Your armour seems rather new, so let me tell you that there are some dangers out there where you wish you'd have the best possible gear."

"Hmm, I don't think I need anything. Besides, I don't have coins, remember?"

"Ah, yes, but those ingots of yours are much more interesting anyway."

I smile.
"I see. But I don't really need anything. I'm perfectly confident that I'm able to face any challenge that may arise."

"Alright, alright. But if you change your mind, come see me in Eldenale. My main business is there."

Lydia clears her throat.
"Ahem, Elendale."

Balin laughs.
"That's what I said."

I nod with a friendly smile.
"Alright. If my path ever brings me there, I'll be sure to stop by."

I throw a glance out of the window and notice the sun will set soon.
"Well, it's getting late. I should probably get going. I wish you a fine evening and hope that we may see each other again."

Lydia smiles friendly.
"Thank you, I hope so too."

Jaroh relaxedly leans against the counter.
"It's possible."

Balin nods.

I turn to walk out of the shop.
"Farewell. And take care."

A feminine voice calls after me.
"You too."

I exit Balin's Dwarvencraft and head back to the inn. I do want to know about the bounties here, after all.

I soon arrive where Zack went - the front of the inn. Zack nods in greeting.
I smile at him as I stand beside him.
"Hey. Have you found something interesting already?"

"Nothing yet."
He looks over the board. It is effectively coated in job postings for his line of work.

"Huh... So, how does the bounty system here work, exactly?"

"Flexibly. Postings specify the job, you inquire on it, they tell you what to do and how to do it."

"I see... So, the contractor puts a note here of a general job description with a note how to contact them, and the hunter then can discuss the specifics with the contractor?"

"Pretty much."

I nod.
"Got it."

"It work different where you're from?"

"Yeah, a bit. It's more... centralised, I'd say."

"Huh. Bounty Hunters being administered. Weird thought."

"Well, we have this large organisation called the Bounty Brokers Association, or BBA for short. They have a central... they act as a central distribution of bounties. Sometimes, they even accept non-bounty hunters as contract partners. That's how I got some experience in this line of work myself."
I shrug.
"But, aside from them, there are also plenty of local bounties that don't get the attention of the BBA or other organisations."

"I see."

"So, since this board is practically filled with posters, how come you haven't found anything? Just small fry or what?"

"Nothing I'm interested in. Just browsing."

"I see..."
I grow quiet and join him in browsing. I wonder what the scum and villainy in such a peaceful world has to offer.

His voice catches me by surprise.
"See anything you like?"

"Well, lemme just look first..."
I check the one with the highest price.
"Well, I do need money..."

A grizzled looking man with several tens of thousands of crowns under his name. He certainly looks dangerous. But then, this planet isn't exactly the most dangerous place for me. Well, the man looks dangerous for local standards. That is to say, no threat to me at all.
"Ouhh, this one's got a large sum on his head. What'd he do?"

Zack looks over to the poster.
"That one? Hard to say - isn't a royal contract. Probably did something to piss off either a noble or a crime boss."

"Interesting. Say, what would you do with so much money? It is much money for living here, right?"

"Yeah, that'd get most people through at least a few years. And I... don't know, probably the same thing I've been doing this whole time anyway, but with a backup if I need it."

I arc a curious brow at him.
"And... may I ask what you have been doing this whole time?"

"Mercenary work."

"Using your income to further fund your work, eh? Yeah, sounds familiar."
I turn back to the poster.
"So, want to take him on? We could split fifty-fifty."

"Seems like a decent idea. You think we can take him?"

I smirk predatory.
"Oh, I'm most certain."

He smiles.
"I like the way you think. Thing is, though - we'll be leaving Bazada tomorrow on Amelia's path, do we have the time?"

"Depends. Do you trust me? Or, well, at least enough to follow me?"

"A little. Probably not enough if you're asking. Maybe another time."

I sigh.
"Alright. Because we could get this done with quite quickly, I think. But I won't try to coerce you into something you're not ready yet."

He grunts and returns his gaze to the board. I do the same, wondering to myself if I should just take it on myself. But finding a non-Force sensitive man on a time limit might not be the best choice when your only guides are a crude drawing and the vague directions of an employer. Yeah... having an experienced merc with me would be beneficial for that.
I glance at Zack again, then sigh. The money has to wait...

A few moments later something happens, however. A scantily-dressed individual sidles up to Zack.
He does not respond.
Every now and then, the lady tries to get his attention. Zack does not respond.

I glance at her every now and then, hiding a bemused expression.

Eventually, she coughs. Still no response.
"So, are you a bounty hunter?"

He does not respond.
"Stoic demeanour. I understand - we must play the parts we're given. You must be a mercenary."

I draw a hand in front of my face to disguise the amused smirk as I continue to face the board.

He does not comment, and she takes this as permission to proceed.
"I have a mission I think you can help me with. Would you like to see it?"

She tries to grab his arm, but he slips out. She tries again, to the same result.
"Gosh, you're dense."

She frowns.
"I was interested in spending some intimate time with you. Are you interested?"

"No."

She blinks.
"You're sure? You had the walk of one who was frustrated."

He shakes his head.
"Just leave me alone, please."

I observe their interaction intently.

"Alright."
She walks off. Zack sighs.

A Force presence on his person dims slightly.

"Well... that was... something..."

"Yeah, sure was."

"Is there... a particular reason you declined her?"
I glance in the direction of this presence, but I can't really make it out anymore. It's too faint - hidden.

"Do I need one?"

"Not really. Just wondered if there is one."

We return to the strenuous task of staring at the billboard.
"Is that what you have to deal with all the time?"

"About."

I blink.
"So you get... offers like these often?"

As if summoned, another approaches. She is about to begin her spiel, when Zack simply shakes his head. She deflates quickly and leaves.

"That... seems to annoy you. I'd assume that many men would be thrilled in such a situation."

"Maybe it doesn't interest me. Maybe it feels fake."

I blink.
"Fake?"

He blinks as well.
"Yeah, fake. Like it isn't real."

He tilts his head.
"Are these women not approaching you on their own accord?"

"They are. And at the end... will they not ask for my money for their services?"

"Oohh... so you assume them consorts?"
I chuckle.
"I see."

I smile slightly.
"Have you ever bothered asking them if that was their goal?"

He shakes his head slightly.
"I can see it. Do you think it's normal for people to look at someone and say to themselves 'I'm going to solicit sex from this total stranger'?"

I think about Monica and shrug.
"Well, I've heard it happens. Some people are more... liberal than others."

"And of the maybe five in this city, two happened to walk on by and select me specifically."

"Hmm... if you word it like that, you do have a point."

"Why not you, for example? Why did the first walk past the second, and the second fail to reconsider trying what she did?"

I shrug.
"Well, I don't really have experience with... these sort of interactions. Like... at all. Maybe these women can somehow pick up that I'm a man in love, or something?"

He snorts.
"Besides, even if they aren't consorts - and they are - that still isn't real enough for me."

"How so? Because they throw themselves at you like that, despite not knowing you?"

"They're choosing me for what? The way I look? The way I walk?"

"Well... Leanna did tell me that people usually decide whether someone is attractive or not before seeing someone naked... and I think that concept may be applied here as well. I suppose that you have a certain roguish charm that may be attractive to these ladies."

He sighs.
"We're done talking about this."

I blink.
"I'm sorry, have I said something wrong?"

His deep and usually gruff voice somehow has lost its edge.
"I'm just... tired, okay?"

I nod hesitatingly.
"Oh... okay. Uhm... should I leave you, then?"

"If you want."

"Well, you said you're tired, right? So it'd be best if I'll let you rest, right?"

"Yeah. Like Amelia said... rest."

I blink.
"Hm? When did she say that?"

I then shake my head.
"Eh, doesn't really matter. I'll... just let you be, then. But keep in mind, if you ever want to talk about anything, I'll always lend my ear."

"Okay."

With a final nod to him, I take my leave from him and the bounty board. I seek out a table in the inn, out of sight at the walls, where I take a seat. Something about the way Zack just sounded... feels familiar. Tired, but not in the normal way. I get the feeling that something troubles him greatly. I wish I could help him, but I can't push him, nor would I want to. I just hope that I can earn his trust in given time...

Eventually, the others begin to file in. Amelia arrives first, and I catch her attention. As she sits down, I speak up with a smile.
"How has your trip been?"

She returns the smile.
"I believe I was successful in my errand."

"That's good to hear. What did you get?"

"Medical supplies - bandages, remedies, and supplements."

"I see. You assume they will be necessary, then?"

"I assume that at some point someone will get injured on a journey through the wilderness, yes."

"Ah, right. Usually, only people with earth magic can heal people, right? Then I assume that earth is not among the two elements you have mastered?"

"It is not. My command is over fire and water."

I nod.
"I see. I guessed the fire by your reddish cloak. But shouldn't you have to wear blue, then, too? Your white top made me assume your second element would be wind, then. I mean, sure, you have a blue trim there, but it's not as prominent as the white top."

"White is a part of almost all the uniforms issued by the Academy. Wind's colour is cyan - sky blue."

"Oh? Well... Leanna told me something else..."

"White as a primary with cyan as a secondary is wind magic."

"I see... So, she also told me that those in black robes were professors. Does that mean that white is for students, then?"

"Yes, that is fair enough."

"I see."
I draw a hand to my chin.
"Hmm... I just thought that white suited Leanna really well..."

"It does - but perhaps you merely think most things would."

I scratch my cheek.
"Well, I can't deny that. However, I think that white suits her especially well."

"I see."

"It... doesn't suit me nearly as much."

"Does it not?"
She cocks her head.
"Why do you think so?"

"Say, when you look at colours, what do you see? What do you see when you look at white?"

"I see something easily stained."

I nod.
"While that is true, do you know of another way of wording that?"

"Something that has been kept - for now - clean."

I gaze intently at her.
"Indeed. It's pure."

She cocks her head, her hair tails swaying with the motion.
"Do you think that describes you insufficiently and that therefore you would not look good wearing it?"

I shake my head.
"It's a mental thing. I wouldn't feel comfortable in it, and that would inevitably show in my body language, which would give others the impression that it doesn't suit me."

I smile slightly.
"I can only confidently wear white in the combination with black."

"Hmmm... perhaps you should instead consider white with a different meaning in mind."

"Perhaps. But even so, it's not a colour I like to wear that much. As you said, it's something easily stained."

"Yes. There are costs for indulging in dress as I do. I must spend long hours ensuring that it is immaculate."

"Well, I must say that your work shows. Your taste is impeccable. Assuming you put together that outfit, and not the Academy, that is."

"It takes effort on my part to maintain - there is some personalization offered by the Academy, and I..."
She hesitates for only a little moment, her usually stoic expression showing signs of colour on her cheeks.
"I dress that my parents will think I am adorable..."

I smile softly.
"Well, I'm rather positive that you succeeded."

She swiftly changes the topic.
"And why do you dress how you do?"

"This one?"
I pat my current robe.
"Because Leanna was uncomfortable with the attention my original robe gathered."

I smile slightly.
"It keeps the same colour scheme, though."

"I see. Most do dress for others."

I shrug.
"Well... I generally don't. I wear robes like these because I like them. They're comfortable and easy to manoeuvre around in. And the colour scheme... well, I've found a liking to it. Black and dark blue robes became something like my trademark."

She regards me with her curious gaze.
"Why is that? Do you concern yourself with its symbolism as well?"

"Well... kind of, actually. Not in the same way as white, though. You see, the land I served the longest under... I didn't like it. And the dominant colour there was red. So, as a small sign of rebellion, I started wearing blue - the opposite of red. And I found that it goes really well with black, so I stuck with it."
I lean my head back and stare at the ceiling.
"Besides... blue has always been my favourite colour."

"Why is that?"

"It's the colour of the sky, after all."
I return my focus on Amelia and smile slightly, though there's hurt in it.
"To me, the sky... the horizon... they always represented freedom."

She smiles as well.
"I understand that."

I nod, then smile again, this time warmer.
"You said you dressed that way because you wanted to be seen as adorable by your parents. That sounds like you are quite close with them. Is that right?"

She nods.
"I would agree."

My smile widens. At least one of us here.
"That's quite good to know. However... I can imagine you don't get to see them that much?"

She nods slowly.
"Not often. I must work hard at the Academy."

"If I take the... erm... mage Acadamy I trained in as a benchmark, I can imagine that you have quite much to do, especially given your young age and your advanced... uhm... what's the word... curriculum?"

She nods, this time more concise.
"Yes. I am nearing the end of the classes which I need to take to move on."

"Right. You mentioned that accompanying us on this trip would provide you with a chance to finish your curriculum. How does that work, exactly?"

"Assuming I can gather enough information on an academic topic, I will be able to compile a report following this field study. Granting of status as a research mage is done when you have proven that you can contribute something new."

"I see..."
I smile mysteriously.
"Well, then I think you'll have enough 'new' things to contribute after our journey, I'm sure."

"I would appreciate that."

Then, my smile turns on a bit more teasing nature.
"But, say, are your parents really the only reason you want to look adorable?"

Her eyes narrow.
"Yes."

"I see."
I look at her curiously.
"So, you have no interest in someone romantically?"

She nods slightly.
"None at the moment."

I smile reassuringly.
"I see. Well, don't worry, it can take some time."

She shrugs.

"And even if it never comes to that, that'd be fine, too."

She nods to that.

I lean back in my seat. Well, it would appear that is the end to that conversation.

But luckily, Leanna arrives soon after.
I smile excitedly at her arrival.
"Hey, Leanna!"

I then clear my throat in an effort to appear more composed.
"Ahem. How was your trip to the authorities?"

She smiles back.
"I think I got some things done. Were you physically able to have fun without me? I hope so."

"Yeah. I met some new friends... I think. At least they're nice acquaintances."

She appears surprised for a moment, then smiles again.
"Oh? That sounds nice, who are they?"

"A group of adventurers from... Eldenale? No, Elendale. A young human, an elf and a dwarf. I've met them previously in the inn in Illumia."

She sits down beside me.
"Interesting. Tell me about them."

"Well, the dwarf's name is Balin, son of Fundin. He has his own shop here, a very impressive armour and two massive hammers - one of which is a Ylmiran Spear. He's a smith, and from what I can tell a pretty good one. Said his main shop is in Elendale, though."

"Oh, a spear? Which one?"

I shrug.
"I don't know. I didn't ask him about it."

Then I arch a brow.
"Though I did mention to you that I met a dwarf with a spear recently."

"Well, if you've met him, perhaps you've met his friend as well."

I tilt my head.
"The hammer? No, it was silent."

"Well, perhaps it just wasn't interested in talking to someone else then."

I shrug.
"Probably. Anyways, the elven woman is Lydia Greenleaf, an archer and a carpenter. Her woodwork is exquisite, from what I've seen. She also keeps a large feline around - a panther she called Pandora. And then there was a young human man, Jaroh Hertz. He seems to be something like Balin's apprentice in smithing, and has an obvious fable for weapons. He also has a panther, called Saber."

She arcs a brow.
"Hertz? Strange."

"Hm? What is it?"

"Hertz is the surname of a certain thief, but I doubt he would just be walking around. Though even Hertz might not be a common surname, I doubt this Jaroh is the thief."

"I'd say, so, too. He seems to be a good guy. And, to be frank, he doesn't seem to be the most... competent of their group."

"I see."

"But mostly, I think he's a good boy."

"I see. I'd like to meet them sometime."

"I think you'll like them. They're quite the... interesting bunch. So, who knows, maybe we do get to meet them again."

She smiles, in the way that can melt my heart.
"That would be nice."

"So, and what have you been up to?"

"Official work. Unfortunately, I'm not supposed to tell you."

"Aww..."
If she had an excited puppy earlier, she now has a sad puppy.

She pats my head.
"I'm sorry, but it was important, and I shouldn't break the rules without a good reason."

"I understand..."
I grumble, just loud enough for her to hear.
"I've become a kriffing head of state so that I wouldn't have to deal with stuff like that again..."

She laughs slightly.
"That's one benefit."

But I just sigh and droop my head.

Her finger comes up and lifts my chin.

That makes me perk up again.
"Ah!"

She blinks at the sudden exclamation.

I blink at her as well.
"Uhm... w-what was that for?"

"I want you to cheer up."
She smiles.
"How can I help that along?"

I relax and smile warmly as I begin to stare into her eyes.
"You... already do..."

She smiles at me, her eyes shimmering beautifully.

How could I not get lost in them?
"You know... even if blue wasn't my favourite colour all along, it would be now..."

"Really? Why is that?"

I blink.
"Why it was, or why it would be now?"

"Yes."

"Well... blue is the colour of the sky. To me, it always represented freedom. And now... well, I've worked a lot with crystals over the years, but your eyes are simply the most beautiful gems I have ever seen."

"Aww..."
She turns red.

"They're as far and deep as the sea... and I can get just as easily lost in them."

Her blush deepens.

I lean closer to her ear and whisper.
"I love you, Leanna."

I then lean back out and smile lovingly at her. Like she is everything I can see, everything that matters to me.

She can only smile nervously in response.

I notice and dial my smile back a few notches.
"I-I'm sorry... I went too far again, didn't I?"

"Yeah..."

I frown and glance away, displeased with myself.
"...I'm sorry..."

"No, it's okay... just save it."

I blink, not quite catching her meaning.
"Huh?"

She smiles, a bit more collected.
"There are better times."

"Ah... I see. Well... sorry again... I don't want to make you uncomfortable..."

Amelia uses this moment to chime in.
"The two of you are extremely awkward. And yet you share rooms."

"W-what?!"

Leanna blinks, surprised.
"You... noticed?"

Amelia nods.
"I did. Why should I not notice the number of keys your party of two had?"

I tilt my head.
"Because... keys are rather small objects? How would you know I had mine just not out in the open?"

But Leanna goes pale red.
"Amelia, it was nothing like that! We had separate beds!"

I blink at the implications, then my face goes to match Leanna's shade.
"Yes!"

Amelia cocks her head.
"I see... and I assume that Xerath was so tired the following day because the two of you didn't do anything together?"

"N-not in that room!"
I clear my throat and relent.
"A-ahem... we- we were out together on the festival..."

"I see."
She is not convinced.

Leanna caves.
"I was just giving him a massage - relaxing his muscles."

I nod along.
"Of which I didn't even notice anything anymore. Me having been exhausted like that had... different reasons."

Amelia instantly zeroes in on me.
"Oh? And what are those reasons?"

I sigh.
"If you must know, my emotional energy was depleted. I was mentally more exhausted than I was physically."

Her stoic monotone betrays some concern.
"Interesting. Then... our argument bothered you?"

I blink.
"Huh? What argument?"

"On the train, about restrictions on mages."

"Ah, no. Don't worry about it. It was a much more... general issue."

"Hmm..."

"You see, I'm a very calm and collected person. Or, at least I was, for the past thirteen years. I lived by controlling emotions. But now, since a few days, I live by having my emotions control me. They're completely out of whack, and it's confusing me greatly."

She leans forward.
"Interesting. What caused that?"

I point to Leanna.
"Meeting her."

She raises a delicate eyebrow.
"I do not believe I've ever heard of such a thing outside of stories."

I shrug.
"Well, that statement surprisingly holds true about many things I've done..."

"Oh?"

"Yes. Though now is not the time to talk about them, I think."

"Perhaps not. I remain interested, however."

I smile slightly.
"I'm sure the time will come where we can talk about those things."

"I hope so. Still, to return to the original subject - I would not be surprised if you were to do it again."

I arc a brow.
"What? Depleting my emotional energy and sleep for a day or two?"

"Sleep in the same room as each other. It makes sense - Zack was hired to protect me."

"Ah. Yes. Well, while that is true... it would be weird, wouldn't it?"

She shakes her head, her... pigtails, was it? Her two tails swaying with the motion.
"It is sensible."

I blink.
"It is? Wouldn't you rather room with Leanna?"

"I would also appreciate that - though if I cannot get that, I will settle for the alternative."

Leanna stands immediately.
"Amelia, you don't need to make accommodations for us. If you are more comfortable with me, I will see what I can do."

I nod in agreement.
"Indeed."

She glances at me.
"You'll be alright, right?"

Her concern is great, but this isn't about me. So I look on flatly.
"I won't die, so yes. I'll survive."

She smiles at Amelia.
"So yes, if it makes you more comfortable, I'll sleep in your room instead of Zack."

Amelia nods mutely, but it's clear she is happier with this arrangement.

I smile as well.
"Good."

Leanna puts a hand on Amelia's shoulder.
"It's okay to tell people what you want, okay?"

Amelia nods again.

"Indeed. Don't feel the need you have to silently accommodate us at your own cost."

Leanna sits back down, still smiling at Amelia. And eventually, Zack arrives.

I greet him with a smile.
"Welcome back, Zack."

"Hey."

Leanna smiles.
"How are you, Zack?"

"Good."

"Did you get anything done that you wanted to do?"

He just shrugs.
"I didn't find anything."

"Well, that's alright. Come, sit. I'll get us all dinner."

I smile at Leanna.
"Thank you, Leanna. That would be most appreciated."

She stands to go get it.

I turn my attention to Zack, as difficult as it is.
"Say, Zack, we were just discussing our rooming. Would you be comfortable to room with me, or would you prefer your own room?"

"I'd prefer my own room, with two beds."

I blink.
"Why would you need two beds?"

He pats the dischargers at his hip.
"Where else will they sleep?"

I regard him blankly for a moment, trying to figure out if he is joking.
"Are you... are you serious?"

"Deadly. They need to be relaxed."

I tilt my head.
"Are they... Ylmiran Spears, too?"

"Lesser men blame their tools for their own inadequacies. I blame myself for not tucking them in properly."
He blinks.
"No, they just need their beauty sleep."

I shrug.
"Well, whatever lifts your ship, man."

He arcs a confused brow.
"What?"

"Err, I mean, do whatever suits you."

"Ah."

"If that is really something you're serious about, I have no right to judge you."

Leanna returns with food, carrying it with winds.
"Zack, if you're doing that I'm not paying for lodging."

His mood is soured.

I can't help but chuckle.
"Well, that was to be expected."

He crosses his arms.
"You people have no understanding of what makes a mercenary good at his job."

Leanna quips back.
"What, sleeping far away from your primary weapons?"

I nod along.
"She does have a point there. Those mercenaries I know always keep their weapons as close as possible."

"Hmph. Very well, I suppose I'll share."

I perk up.
"Really?"

I smile at Zack.
"Thank you. I will not disappoint your trust."

He grunts, and Leanna sets the bowls on the table. Everyone sets to work on their meal.
I analyse my meal with idle curiosity. After all, I still like to know what I eat. It's another soup - this one looks to be of a domesticated animal local to this area.
"So, Leanna, what do we have today?"

"This is a more stock type of soup that you'll find in cities - beef stew."

"I see..."
I still don't know anything else. But it does taste similar to nerf. Oh well. I might want to take a look at some books about the local flora and fauna. But I still might be able to learn more about Leanna this way. And the others, of course.
"Actually, since you seem to be rather knowledgeable about food, do you have a favourite?"

"You'd have to be more specific than that. I have a lot of favourite foods from different places and for different situations."

I smile at her.
"I'd love to hear about all of them, then. You mentioned you like stew, right? Is there, like, a specific kind you like more than others?"

"Yes - I prefer venison stew, cooked using deer. A kind of wild mammal."

"I see... If we have it some time, please point it out to me."

"We had it at Raven Pass, actually."

I blink.
"Oh, we had?"

"Yes."

"I see..."
I draw a hand to my chin, growing quiet.
After a few moments, I speak again.
"So, is there anything else you like? I now know of venison stew and cinnamon parfaits."

She arcs a delicate eyebrow in amusement.
"Are you trying to build a catalogue of things I enjoy?"

I smile.
"Perhaps."

"Well... I wouldn't want to bog down the group with a conversation between only two people..."

I shrug.
"Well, I wouldn't mind including them in the catalogue of things they like, too."

"Huh."

Amelia then raises an eyebrow.
"Is 'my mother's cooking' an unacceptable answer?"

"Well, if I ever get to see it for myself, no."
I smile at her.
"But I'm sure she'd be very happy to hear that."

She glances down.
"I suppose so..."

Leanna smiles at her.

I blink.
"Is something wrong?"

Leanna shakes her head.
"She's embarrassed. It's normal - somewhat. I wish it wasn't."

Now I blink at her.
"Huh?"

She frowns.
"There's a lot of shaming that happens between children for publicly loving their mothers, and that carries on. Does that happen where you're from?"

I stare at her, completely confused and flabbergasted.
"What? Like... what? Why? Why... just... why? And... like... publicly loving their fathers is okay or what? That's like... completely stupid!"

"No, but it depends on circumstance. All of it. Remember when I told you that some displays of affection are frowned upon? It's mostly the ones people notice."
She then turns back to Amelia.
"Amelia, you are wonderful for saying what you did."

I nod along, focusing on Amelia as well.
"Yes, absolutely!"

She looks up and smiles a bit.

"Personally, I think... that familiar bonds are incredibly important. So, I can only encourage such a loving environment."

Leanna nods, continuing on.
"Bonds in general. So many people are asked to be 'strong', especially boys. Strong just means keeping it inside for a lot of people."

I pause.
"Ah. Yeah, sounds familiar."

"They can't learn how to not feel, so they learn not to show it instead."

I nod slowly.
"Yeah..."

She puts a hand on my shoulder and gives it a rub.

I smile up at her.

"As a person who did, do you feel better now?"

I ponder her question.
"Hmm... I feel... more happy, on one hand. But also more confused on the other. I... don't quite know how to process these emotions yet."

She nods.
"I imagine there would be a transitional period if they all come back at once for some unspecified reason."

"Yeah, pretty much."

She smiles.

I do as well.
"But... I think I like this... I prefer feeling things again."

"I'm glad."

"Yeah... me too."

Her smile catches candlelight as easily as sunlight, it seems. I begin to stare again, getting completely enraptured by her twinkling eyes. The warm glow of fire flickers across her features.
My voice is soft, only meant for her, only heard by her.
"You... are the best thing in my life..."

Her smile brightens in response.

I can do nothing but continue to gaze at her with unbridled love and affection plain on my expression.
But eventually, she has to be the one to remove her smile, so we can continue eating.

When she does, I blink, then blush.
"Ah, sorry..."

Her lips curve up again as she glances my way.
"You did nothing wrong, Xerath - I just thought we should finish our meals."

"Well, yeah, but... isn't it uncomfortable for you how much I stare at you?"

"Not... really. It's just one of the ways you show affection."

I smile slightly.
"Well, yeah... but..."

I glance away.
"I often overheard people that staring would be considered as creepy behaviour..."

"It's about situation. People who care about each other will often mutually stare. Is that wrong?"

"I... suppose not...? So... you... don't just hold my gaze... to accommodate me?"

"I do, mostly. But that gives it a certain element - consent. You have my permission to stare, Xerath."

I take a breath.
"Alright."

I smile slightly.
"That's reassuring. Thanks."

She smiles, and even though it is a soft one, it lights up the room. Or maybe that's just me.
"No problem."

It takes effort, but she wanted us to continue eating.
"Well, then we better finish this dinner, hm?"

She nods.

And so, I focus back on systematically removing food from my plate, and eventually, we are done.
I stand up, holding up a hand for Leanna again.
She stands, only really using my hand for the excuse for me to feel her touch that it was.

I send her a small, loving smile, before looking around the others, though my gaze lingers on Leanna.
"Good night, guys."

Goodnights are said and people file into their bedrooms. Zack and I set up in our room. I may be somewhat disappointed I don't get to share the room with Leanna anymore, but I still am glad Zack trusts me enough to room with me. Thus, I make a point in trying to be as unobtrusive to him as possible.
We eventually set everything, and Zack's gruff, but not unkind voice rings out as he lies down.
"Goodnight."

I smile, unseen in the dark room.
"Goodnight, Zack."

We both settle in and I fall back into the used routine of shutting off my thoughts and receding into my mind for another dreamless night.
But... this one isn't exactly dreamless. It is... interrupted.
"...on, I just... a bit more! I can almost see him!"

"..."

"Look, I... in the right place, just give... I need more!"

Both Nox and I are highly startled and prepare the mental defences, while Nox stays hidden.

In the flat, void-filled space of my mindscape, a fissure appears, and a gloved hand reaches through. It grasps the edge of the fissure, and with pure force of focused rage, begins to push it wider.
I am already wide awake in alarm, while I sense Nox tracking the roots of the fissure. I drop my veil little by little as I prepare to repel the invader with everything I have.

"Light and Dark, I see him in the distance. I command you to grant me audience with my Emperor!"
Finally, a familiar figure bursts through the fissure, a tether of Force energy leading far into the void beyond my mind. Within my mind stands a man with black hair sporting the same hairstyle I have, covering ice blue eyes, and wearing a crimson and black Mandalorian armour. A rebreather face mask covers his mouth and nose, giving him a very intimidating appearance. The two lightsabers dangling from his belt do not lessen this effect.
Yet even so, I breathe a sigh of relief as I drop the energy and put the veil in place again. Nox marches forth, angrily.
But I smile widely at the friendly intruder, who is no other than one of my closest friends.
"A'den!"

The Mandalorian Sith nods.
"Xerath, it is good to see you. We've been trying so hard to contact you since you disappeared without a trace. Where are you?"

Before I can answer, Nox steps up.
"Are you kriffing nuts, Wrath?! Do you know how close we were to send you to the Force and back?!"

My dark twin holds out his hand, holding his fingers together.
"One does not simply invade our mind!"

A'den shakes his head, his unruly mob of black hair swaying by the motion.
"I do. I wouldn't contact you like this if it wasn't absolutely necessary."

Nox growls, but relents and steps back.
"Alright."
He melts back into the shadows, now that he knows there is no danger.

I sigh.
"Well, first of all, it's really good to see you, A'den. As for your question, I am... in another galaxy, I think, stranded on some primitive planet."

He arcs a brow, barely visible under the hair.
"Why? You didn't leave a note, so I assume this wasn't your doing."

I nod.
"It wasn't. Long story short, the Force abducted me or something. Why, though, I don't quite know. Either to save this strange world, or... some other thing, I cannot be sure."

"Why just one world in the middle of nowhere, then? Is it a nexus of some kind?"

I nod again.
"The strongest nexus I've ever seen, by far."

He blinks.

"And absolutely different to boot. Imagine this: The Force is... it's structured here. The Force users of this society use formulas and stuff, as if the Force is some other field of science."

He starts.
"What?"

I nod excitedly.
"I know, right? That very concept seems impossible. But it is what I found here. And... beyond that... I've discovered something even more impossible. Something ancient beyond comprehension is buried on this planet. Something that may be the origin of Beskar."

I smile slightly.
"I thought that might interest you."

"Go on. What do you think it is?"
He is suspicious, but there is a different, dominant emotion. A kind of reverence, that I have never seen in him before.

I shrug.
"I have no kriffing idea! It's older than even the star this planet orbits. It predates any known history of us by... several billions of years."

"Yes, but what is it?"

"Some pillar of metal, with a... very powerful sword at the bottom."

He baulks instantly.
"Then... you have found it?"

I arc a brow.
"I... don't know? Depends on what 'it' is?"

He draws a hand to his covered chin.
"I will have to discuss this with the rest of the clans on this - I feel as though I should be able to speak of this to you, but that sword - and the material that surrounds it, which if I am right is called True Steel - are involved in an ancient promise my people made."

"The Mandalorians?"

He nods decidedly.
"Yes. Our culture as a whole."

I draw a hand to my chin as well. Throughout the years together, we developed some similar mannerisms.
"Now that I think about it, there also seems to be a society present on that planet that, from what little I have heard of them so far, is rather similar to your people."

"Yes?"

"They're called Proxians, tough nordmen living in icy lands. I hypothesise that they use Beskar as well, and they apparently know about this pillar of metal as well."

"I see. Do they follow a version of our way?"

"You mean the Resol'nare, right? I don't know yet. The society I got dropped into doesn't really have contact with them."

"Yes. I promise I will get back to you on this - but if you don't want to be interrupted in your sleep next time, please leave a lamppost of some kind. Something to show us the way."
He sighs.
"I know you don't like being kept in the dark about things, but this... this is important. This discovery could shake the foundation of my people... To know that Tega'amur has been found..."

"Well, according to the person who told me about these Proxians, they know that the pillar is not meant for people of their world..."

"It's not. No one knows who it is for - but it knows, and I will tell you this: if it wants you, you will know."

I nod.
"Yes, it is alive and sentient alright. And it is asleep, but I figured it best not to poke it."

He nods as well.
"I think you were right about that - both in general, and with Tega'amur."

"Hmm... Well, I'd love to hear more about that legend, but if it is as important as it seems to be, our time right now will not be sufficient. Mand'alor the Avenger still should be somewhere around Alliance territory, but you most likely know her whereabouts better than I do. You know that you and the Mandos have my full trust and support."

"Of course. And with a topic as severe as this, I will be able to get her attention quickly."

I nod.
"Alright, but this aside, you came because you wanted to say something, right? What is it?"

He puts a hand on my shoulder, clasping it firmly.
"The Alliance is well, Xerath. You need not worry about us - we were only worried about you. I know you can find your way back on your own, now that I know you are safe."

I smile slightly.
"I am quite confident that I can..."
But not if I want to.

"Chasing you was extremely important - if only in the finding of a potential threat that could whisk away the Eternal Emperor with no warning. If there is no threat, I'd better leave your mind before I injure you more."

I blink.
"Well, actually, there's still something."

"Oh?"

"I am rather surprised. How did you even find me?"

"Your Force glimmer, while dim, is distinctive. We had to look for you in the Cosmic Force itself to find the trail you left."

"Because, if anything, I would have expected Oberon to pull through, but not you. No offence, but you never were one for the... finer arts of the Force."

"But the energy requirements for searching for you... I'm strapped to a strange machine built by SCORPIO right now. No one else really understands it but her, and apparently the requirements were more raw force of will than skill."

"I see..."
That makes sense, A'den has the strongest will from everyone I know, second to mine maybe. But wait. I blink.
"Wait, SCORPIO's with you? Didn't she upload herself to Iokath?"

"Yes. That's where we are."

"Aah. Yes, makes sense. But wait, what does SCORPIO know about the Force?"

"Things she is very evasive about. I think her creators might've done some very strange things with the Force if she can make a machine to tug on it for me, but she won't say exactly what."

My eyes rapidly move around analytically.
"Perhaps... no, even her creators are not old enough for that. But still... how can you look through the Cosmic Force and not die? Because any time I tried to gaze into it, I got repelled by it."
A shimmer of hope lights up in my eyes.

"This."
He pulls on the tether of energy trailing behind him.
"I had a destination in the real world in mind, and we carved a path through to it. These experiments proved that under certain conditions, traversing it is possible - it might just be about energy and methodology."

I gaze into the tether, but am not really able to make out anything.

"I only needed a solid connection to the real world that the Cosmic Force could not immediately sever."

"Huh. Right... Whatever power pulled me over here brought me through some realm that almost felt like the Force itself as well... Say, have you seen a starlit realm with weird white walkways and triangle portals on your search for me?"

"I did... in passing. Your trail first ran cold there - I couldn't get the doorways working. But it did eventually lead me to you, so I am thankful for that."

"Huh... weird."
I shake my head.
"Well, now, what do you suggest how I can help you to find me more easily again? Because, if I were to increase the glow of my presence, anything here would notice me."

"Somewhere nearby... place us something we can find, recognizably yours. We need you to shine, but it doesn't need to be right here. Just astronomically close. We can do the rest."

"Actually, hold on."

He does, folding his hands in front of him.

A medallion forms in front of me. It's a flat pentagon made out of black rock with two golden pentagonal lines inside, parallel to each other and the edge.
"This is pure power of me. It should seek its way back to me when you use it."

He picks it up.
"Thank you. This should help."

I nod.
"Good. And... I'm sorry I didn't say anything... I... uhm... got a bit sidetracked, so that I didn't even consider reaching out with my powers..."

"I'm not sure even you could've crossed that distance without at least some preparation. Getting here was rough."

I shake my head.
"I still feel the connection to the marks I left in our galaxy. I'm sure with a bit of focus, I could have gotten at least a message across."

The tether flickers.
"Ah, kriff, the core is reaching unsafe temperatures. I need to leave, or I'll be stranded away from my body."

I smile.
"Well, while I could easily give you a new one, I wouldn't want to worry Vette and the others. Thank you for your visit, A'den. And greet the others for me. Get back safe, and may the Force be with you."

"May the Force be with you."
He smiles, not seen but felt through the mask, and bleeds back through the fissure as it closes.

I sigh.
"Well, that was something."

Nox coalesces beside me and shakes his head.
"That it was. I did not expect them to be this dependant on you."

"Hey, is it so strange to think that they actually care?"

The metal helmet of Kallig's Countenance tilts to stare at me.

I sigh again.
"Yeah, you're right..."

Nox's presence recedes, and I go back to rest as well, trying to get as much sleep as possible.