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"Keth wouldn't do that," Was Rhom's only response, "Come on, I want to teach you somethings about finding the people's opinions on matters." They walked around the city, seeing the different shops and items, but Rhom wasn't concerned with those.
He was concerned with how the people looked, dark elves and humans alike. No race was singled into one group; they either shared either a look of gloom or of prosperity. "You want to know of the best place to get information?" He asked Ninette.
"The kids that run the streets. Adults always run their big mouths. They forget that children hear and remember lots of things.....Right?" Ninette asked.
Felician walked along the beach, letting the ocean wind toss his hair. The dark gloom of the cloudy day fit his mood. He was confused and worried about his arm. Again and again he tried to move it, but only his fingers moved. He stared out at the waters and sighed, then continued walking. He took his boots off and walked in the shallow water, the small waves splitting around his legs.
"That works, but not all of the time." Finding a certain building after requesting directions from a city folk, he entered it. The tavern was medium size with a fire in the center, chairs surrounding it, tables on the walls and, behind the counter, were stairs to rooms.
"Oh yeah. Taverns are good. Everyone gets drunk and talks about everything." Ninette's smiled, "But don't let me drink."
She eyed the people in the room and settled on a man in the back corner. "What about him?" she asked.
Rhom looked over at him, then handed her a couple coins, "Stay at the bar where I can see you." He then walked over over sat near the man, only a table in front of him, appearing to look at Ninette so the man wouldn't suspect anything.
"Okay." She picked a seat that was close to a corner so Rhom could easily see her. She made sure she could still feel Rhom and waited.
Keth began to stir gently and he rolled to his back, muttering in his sleep.
The man looked up to Rhom, then back down to his mug. "Bad place to bring a girl like that. Get taken, she will." He took a small drink and sat back. "What do you want light heart?" he asked.
The man looked up to Rhom, then back down to his mug. "Bad place to bring a girl like that. Get taken, she will." He took a small drink and sat back. "What do you want light heart?" he asked.
"What would you say are the best places to take her?" Rhom asked him, crossing his right leg over his left and sitting back.
"Out of this city. Nothing but corruption and lies here. Fat Ganzi takes our money, then laughs as he uses it for himself and that viper he keeps by his side.
"Viper?" Rhom asked, "You mean Vevoimal?"
"That woman is meaner than any other woman you will ever meet." the man said, "If she were removed, Ganzi would fall apart and would be vulnerable to an attack. But every man who tried to dispose of her....never returned. No one knows if they're alive or dead."
Rhom shifted, resting his hands on the table and put them into his sleeves, "I need more proof. If you can get some documents that correspond with the-." He paused. Listen to yourself, Rhom, he thought, you're talking about murderers here. Of course, this was the only way to do what needed to be done, but he wouldn't kill anyone, no. If he wanted someone gone, he'd do it the respectful and honorable way. He cleared his throat, "I'm sorry, I was just remembering something, where was I? Oh yes, if you can get me some proof, I will see what I can do." He shifted his right hand and showed the man his coin purse string, "Do you know who I am?"
"I've heard from the streets. No need to mention your name here unless you want to have your purse slit." the man said, "Besides, I had an interest in all of the dark creatures you travel with. Normally a human would be scared to death." He laughed and took another drink. "Anyway, what's got you asking all of the questions? Good way to get people to distrust you."
Rhom cursed at himself. Now the guy thought something, but what, Rhom didn't know. "Then you know what I'm trying to do." He replied, "You help me, I help you."
"And what could I possibly need your help for? My own death? Because what you want to do is pure suicide. The only ones who could possibly stand a chance are Il’Nasdar and Sauvageot. You're toying with fire, boy. I'll tell you what you want, but there's not really much I can do. My hands are tied right now."
Il’Nasdar? Rhom thought, that rang a bell. "There must be something you want. Give me proof of Lord Ganzi's misdeeds and I will give this city his head, along with your request."
"I want my own problems solved and out of the way. It's tiresome being in my position and it's wearing on my patience." he said, "And if you serve Ganzi's head, might as well serve your own because you will be caught. He has guards around him night and day whether you see them or not. That snake by his side tells him everything. She has spies in the city so talking about killing him is a sure fire way to get yourself killed. And it's thinks like this that cause me so much damn stress." He downed his mug and called for another.
"Why would you question my authority if you know who I am?" Rhom asked, "The deed would be done in front of everyone, not by my own sword."
"I'm not questioning your authority. It's your sanity I'm worried about." the man said, "And just whose sword are you going to taint with Ganzi's blood? Surely you wouldn't make Il’Nasdar do it."
It was then Rhom knew who he was talking about. "He has his own promises to hold to, but I have another who glories at the sight of blood."
"I see. And what is your plan?" the man asked, "Ganzi is rarely alone. Only I know when he's ever by himself. Why should I tell you?"
"Have you not been listening, man?" Rhom exclaimed, then quieted down when everyone began to look at them, "If you give me information, I can show his guilt to the city and properly dispose of him."
"What's in it for my end? I have a balance to keep." the man said, "I might tell you....for the right price."
Rhom untied his coin purse and slipped the man a triplet of gold coins.
"You'll have to do better than that, little prince."
"How much would you say this information is worth?" Rhom decided to make the man give him his own price so that he'd know he wasn't being cheated or distrusted.
"Ten more pieces and I'll tell you everything."
Rhom gave him what he asked for and waited in silence.
"Ganzi likes taking baths but he has guards here and here." the man started, drawing on the table with his mug and finger, "At night, he has guards by his doors and window. That Vevoimal is with him as well. So don't attack then. The best time to attack is when he sits in his study. It's on the second floor of his castle and there are no guards by the window. You'll have to climb up, but he'll be completely alone. Even his snake won't be there."
"I don't want to kill him right now," Rhom said, "I only want proof of his misdeeds so that I can bring him in front of the people. This will come in handy for taking him into custody, though.
"The city itself is your proof. The elder dark elves that still mourn the loss of the sacred spring, the children running barefoot and hungry in the streets, Ganzi's heavy tithes, the written law on his gates, the oppression of the poor, the beatings of those who can't pay him, there is your proof."
"Written law on his gates and beatings for what payments?!"
"He has a written set of his laws for the city hung on his gates. Whenever he catches someone breaking those rules, or of someone can't pay the ridiculous tithes, he beats the person, and anyone who interferes, then takes what he wants from their home. The sentimental items are his favorites. He takes great pleasure in watching the people beg him not to take their things. He took a ruby ring from a child. It was a keepsake from her mother and Ganzi ripped it from the child's neck. She cried for days. Ganzi laughed."
Rhom nodded, "Thank you for this information."
"Thank me when you pull this off." the man said, "Now take your woman and leave this place. Get your friends and make a plan."
Rhom stood and put his hand on Ninette's shoulder, down her arm, then held her hand as they walked outside. "Are you okay with going to another place?" Rhom asked her, "This will be my last for getting information."
Ninette nodded. "I'm fine with it. So long as we go shopping afterwards." she said with a smile.
He smiled back and held her close, "Anywhere you like, my love."
"So where are we going next?" she asked, "Another tavern?"
"No," he replied," A brothel." Asking another citizen, he was pointed in the direction.
"A what?! No way! I don't want you going into one!" Ninette exclaimed, "Too many other girls. And not to mention, ew."
"But that's part of the economy here, love. In other to get more information, I have to find out the darkest parts."
Ninette pouted for a second. "Fine. But I'm not letting anyone touch you." She followed after Rhom and looked around at the city, taking in the surroundings.
He smiled and kissed her pouted lip, "Deal." They began to walk in the direction of the brothel, getting closer to the castle and the middle of town. It was the same as the others, just slightly bigger.
He walked in and a bell rang. Immediately a woman walked up dressed in a red corset with a long flowing dress. Her cleavage was very prominent and light makeup covered around her eyes.
"Good afternoon," She said, "My, my, what new guests we have." Her voice was soft, but authoritative. Rhom knew she treated her clients well because of that.
"Yes," He replied, "I'm looking for the head of this brothel."
"No pun intended, I presume?"
He thought back to what he said and laughed, "I thought she'd be female, so, no."
The woman laughed back and flipped her hair behind her shoulder, making her cleavage even more visible, "My name is Madam Irina, and it will be my pleasure to treat you to anything you want."
"Do you know who I am?"
"Of course, my dear, everyone knows who you are."
"I need information on Lord Ganzi's misdeeds. I've already talked with one person you may know."
"Did he tell you his name?" She had begun to stride closer to him, red lipstick more visible.
"No, but he was-"
"Hooded?" She interrupted, "He told you everything you need to know, sweetie." She was now in Rhom's face and he could feel the sweat gathering at his brow. He then remembered Ninette and tried to calm himself down, but those boobs were just... there.
Ninette hissed and popped Rhom's head to snap him back to reality. "Look at her eyes. Not her chest." she said tersely, "Cubi don't take it lightly when their mates look at others.
"Ah, a cubi," Madam Irina said, slightly backing up, "And mating with a human." She looked to Rhom, "Ever want a dark elf woman, you come see me." She winked at him, then turned to walk away.
"Rhom is mine lady. Hands off." she hissed, flicking her tail back and forth, "Come on. Let's go."
Rhom turned to leave.
"One more thing.”
“What is it?" he asked.
"If you ever need my girls, we are at your command." She replied, "When Ganzi is out of office, one of my girls will be sent to you, carrying a document. Show this to Madam Breya, in your home city, and she will understand. We can serve as your couriers, my king." She curtsied, "My whole being, not just my body, is for yours to command."
Rhom smiled and slightly bowed, "Thank you, Madam Irina."
Ninette scowled at Madam Irina and pulled Rhom away, muttering to herself. "Who does she think she is?! Hitting on a man who's taken. It's shameless."
Keth's eyes snapped open and he bolted up in his bed. He placed a hand on his forehead and looked down to see Ileya. He was glad she hadn't awoken with him, but he was still shaken by his nightmare. They were getting more and more frequent and much more violent and vivid. He felt like he was losing his mind and decided that he needed to talk to Finzdeld and soon.
Felician finally left the beach and returned to Nishin's friend's house and knocked softly on the door. "Hey. You in there?" he called.
“I'm sure she didn't mean it," Rhom replied as they exited, 'She was just trying to make sure I felt comfortable and welcome."
More tings and jingles, then the door opened, "Shit, Felician, scare the hell outta me, why don't ya?"
"Oh I'm SURE pushing her breasts in front of your face was really welcoming." Ninette said, sarcasm dripping from her voice, "Anyway, time for shopping. You promised." All traces of her irritation vanished and she regained her bubbly personality.
Keth slowly got out of the bed and left the room in search of Finzdeld. He wandered the castle halls a few times before trying to search for the elf's energy. He closed his eyes and focused on nothing but finding Finzdeld. Turning up nothing, Keth tried calling for the elf in his mind.
"Wasn't trying to." Felician replied, "Were you just...Never mind then." He turned and started to head back to the beach.
"Pick a place, any place, my dear." He tried his best to sound like Ashr. He missed the man and wondered if he had survived the attack.
Finzdeld opened Favril's door, poking his head out, "I'm here, Keth."
"Come back, you ass," Nishin replied, "What can I help you with?"
"Clothing! I've gotta get out of these!" Ninette said, "Then we can look at some jewelry."
Keth turned and smiled. His smile then faded. "Can we talk somewhere private? Ileya is sleeping in our room, so we'll have to go somewhere else."
"Ass?! You're the ass you little brat!" Felician snapped, "I was going to ask you about my arm. It's still hurting. Are you sure that friend of yours did her job right?"
"I can feel my purse getting lighter already," Rhom replied.
"Of course," Finzdeld smiled, turning to Favril, "I'll let him know, Favril, you just relax. Go outside, try to forget about it." The Forsaken boy nodded and Finzdeld closed the door, "My room?"
"What do I look like?" Nishin replied, "I'm an alchemist, not a healer." He sighed, "Come inside, I'll see what I can do."
"Oh please. I have money too." Ninette said with a smile, "Besides, I've never been one for fancy extravagant stuff. I like simplicity." She walked towards the market and regained the bounce in her step.
"Yeah. Is he okay?" Keth asked, walking with the elf.
"I'm not sure I want to go in there after what I just heard." Felician said, holding his hands up, "I'll just...I'll deal with it."
Rhom smiled and shook his head, loving this young woman with every step she took. He kept a close walk with hers, but let her go slightly ahead.
"He's fine, just homesick," Finzdeld replied as they walked into his room, "What is it you need to talk about?"
"Shit, it's just me and my chemicals."
She walked into the market and started looking at the merchants who sold clothes. She saw Rhom was back behind her so she reached back and pulled his hand. She gave a happy smile and her hair bounced around her shoulders. "Come on! This store looks interesting." she said. She looked around at the clothes and settled on a thin, loose blouse in a dark green. "What do you think?"
"This is probably going to sound pathetic, but I keep having nightmares of my torture and of hell. They have been recurring more and more often. I should be....Shouldn't I be over it by now?" Keth asked.
"Uh-huh. Sure." Felician said warily. He slowly walked inside, half expecting to see a naked girl in a pile of sheets.
Rhom looked at it, "You like that kind of green?"
"I would be too, if I had been in a place like that," Finzdeld replied, "Have you tried asking Erenus for any help?"
"Excuse the mess." Nishin said, stepping over some equipment.
"I think it's pretty." she said, "I like dark and light colors. Greens I like dark."
"Erenus has other matters to attend to. He can't drop everything because one of his followers is having nightmares like a scared child. And I figured I would ask my father first." Keth said. He then ran his fingers over his head and gripped his hair. "It's maddening. I pushed those memories back to the corners of my mind and yet they keep coming back. They're so vivid and wild, it's gettig hard to believe they're just nightmares."
"Mess? More like small cataclysm." Felician said, "What the hell do you concoct in here?"
"And what would you buy for bottoms to go with it?" Rhom asked with a smile.
"Is it because Charon's thirst for your soul?"
Nishin gave an awkward smile, "If I told you, you probably wouldn't like it. I know Keth didn't. And Ileya, damn, she looked pissed."
"Something loose. I can't wear short stuff much longer. It's starting to get cooler." Ninette replied, "I was thinking something in black or dark brown. What do you think?"
"It's possible. It could be effects from the Borovian Death curse. It could be my own unrest. I don't know." Keth said, "I'm getting scared and worried. And if my emotions get the better of me, I won't be able to protect the ones I care about. Can you help me? Block my memories or something? I've tried selective memory, meditation, and other coping methods, but nothing is working."
"Dragons?" Felician asked, a flat, unimpressed expression on his face.
"Simple," He replied, "Black seems to be fine because it goes with everything, but brown with this gives you a little bit of the forest look. Reminds me of when I found you."
"The next time you sleep, I could use a calm spell right when I think you've drifted."
"How'd you know?" Nishin asked, quite surprised, "Keth tell you?"
"Then I'll look for something in brown." she said with a giggle. When she found a pair of pants she liked, she reached into her pocket and pulled out a small handful of gold coins.
"That could help. Might as well follow me back to my room then." Keth said, "It may be early, but I'm still exhausted. These nightmares are starting to interfere with my rest." He opened the door and started to walk back to the room he shared with Ileya.
"No. I just know from history that demons and elves have a mutual dislike for dragons. Demons are weakened and often rendered powerless. Elves, the same, but by a greater magnitude." Felician replied.
"Love, let me pay for it," Rhom lovingly protested.
Ileya sat up in bed, "That was a nice nap. Hello, Finzdeld."
"Hello Ileya, decided not to call me master anymore?"
She rubbed the back of her head, "No one else does and we're away form the Circle. I thought I should give it a break, then."
"But you were fussing about feeling your purse getting lighter already." Ninette teased.
"I hope I didn't wake you when I left." Keth said as he sat on the bed. Ileya could see the dark circles under Keth's eyes and his pale complexion. He didn't look like his usual strong self. He looked tired and almost fragile with stress.
"Actually," Nishin said, "Elves made dragons, we aren't weakened, but strengthened if we can control one. And to think there were elves who could control more than one. Ever heard about dragoons?"
"No. What's a dragoon?" Felician asked. He sat in a chair he deemed safe to touch and rested his hand on his injured arm.
"A dragoon is when someone merges themselves with a dragon. It requires a true bond between mancer and dragon. Other than that, I have no idea how to do it, even my own dragon won't tell me." He rolled his eyes at the thought of Feilong with a slight smile.
"It was a joke, I'll treat you to anything." Rhom replied.
The cashier looked at him and gasped, her human face lighting up, "Prince Rhom?"
"Yes?" He staggered slightly back from her excitement.
Her young teenager face lighting up when she talked, "It's so good to see you here! I knew you'd come help us!"
He slightly blushed, "Well, to be honest, I had no idea you all needed help until I came."
"Well, you're here now! And because of that, I'll give you these for free." Her smile and hospitable nature was heartwarming.
"Oh, no, it's fine, I can pay for them."
"Please," She protested, "In honor of my family's gratitude, I insist."
Rhom nodded, "Well, thank you. What is your name?"
"My family name? It is Thirunis. We are a lowly cloth merchant family, you've probably never heard of us."
"Thirunis?" Rhom replied, "Wow! You've designed the majority of clothes I have in my wardrobe at home."
Her face glowed even more, "Really? Are you satisfied with them?"
"Of course I am! The most breathable and softest fabric I have ever worn, except for on the battlefield, though, but, as you know, we rarely have battles."
She giggled, "For all of your fancy needs. It's getting closer to winter, be sure to pick something warm for you and your beautiful woman here, your grace."
That struck him. Only his father was called that by his people. The word sent a shiver down his spine and warmth in his heart. Freeing these people was something new now. Not only did they deserve it, but they deserved someone who could connect with them. He looked at Ninette and smiled. His father would have made sure of it and so will he.
"You did, but I fell back. I was so sleepy, but glad I had that nap." She replied, "Are you okay?"
"You have your own dragon?" Felician asked, slightly intrigued, "Must be nice to have enough power to control one."
"Well, Miss Thirunis, do you have a place where I can change?" Ninette asked with a smile, "These tight rough clothes were provided by His Chubbiness Ganzi and I'd like to get out of them."
"I don't know. My exhaustion refuses to subside no matter how much I sleep. It's wearing me down and at this rate, I'll be useless to everyone." Keth replied, "I hope I didn't just make you worry."
Nishin shrugged, "It gets pretty cool sometimes. Unlike the other dragons, he doesn't really have any oral powers. His are more verbal, even calling him requires my voice."
She giggled, walking Ninette to the changing room, "Yes, mi lady, right over here."
"Well, now I am," She replied, looking to Finzdeld, "Going to use calm on him?" Finzdeld nodded, "Alright, Keth, lay down and try to get some sleep."
Felician nodded. "If I could control a dragon I would get rid of a certain someone." he said, thinking of Ganzi.
Ninette quickly changed out of her clothes and into her new set. She sighed in relief as the loose clothing brushed her skin. "Now this feels so much better." she said as she came out, "You like?"
Keth nodded and laid back, trying to get comfortable. He was going to say one last thing to Finzdeld, but his eyes refused to stay open and his body began to shut down. His mind, however, remained active.
"A human, I guess? Someone who did you wrong just because of your race?"
"Love it." Rhom replied. "You're beautiful, mi lady." the cashier said.
The Illusion magic came to Finzdeld's hand as he pulled a chair up behind him and sat by Keth, brushing his forehead and the hair away from it, "Sleep, my son."
"I already killed those who persecuted me because of my race. They tried to hang me and killed someone very dear to me." Felician answered, "I was thinking on the lines of Ganzi."
Ninette's cheeks turned pink and she smiled. "Thanks." she said, "Where to next?"
Keth's mind began running through his memories and brought up the black flames that had burned him for so long in hell. He saw nothing but the desolate wasteland, felt nothing but the sting of abandonment. It ate at him and he stirred in his sleep.
"Still on that, man? By the gods, if it bothers you so much, go talk to Rhom."
"Anywhere you want." Rhom replied, then looked to the girl, "What is the best restaurant here?" "There's not much to choose from," She replied, "Mainly just seafood, but there is Yurihama's down by the shore."
The magic began to fade due to its use and Finzdeld kept stroking Keth's forehead, "It's going to be okay, my son."
"Fine! Just fix my arm! That's what I came here for anyway." Felician hissed, "Jeez. You're such a pain in the ass."
"I haven't had good seafood in ages!" Ninette said, "Let's go there!"
Keth's mind battled against the magic and slowly started to lose. Eventually, it fell and Keth was granted a restful sleep.
"Well fuck! I told you I can't!" Nishin countered, walking over to him, looking at the bruises, "It's barely been a day yet. If it hurts tomorrow, come to me."
Rhom chuckled, "Alright." "Have a nice day!" The girl called as they left.
The aura was gone and Finzdeld smiled, seeing Keth asleep.
Felician stood and walked away.
"Bye!" Ninette said, waving. She then hugged Rhom's arm and walked with him.
"Alright Finzdeld, spill. What's wrong with Keth? He's been looking sickly and weak for a few days now. What's going on?" Ileya asked.
Nishin smiled, knowing he pissed Felician off.
Rhom placed his hand on Ninette's as they walked.
"He's suffering from excessive daytime sleepiness and parasomnias, primarily sleep terrors caused by his stress of hell." Finzdeld answered, "If he ever wakes you up, don't be afraid to use calm. It seems to be the only thing helping."
Felician started to walk into the market, looking for something to dull his pain or at least take his mind off of it. He browsed several shops selling herbs and other medicinal paraphernalia, then came to an old woman. "Hey, old woman. Do you have anything to dull pain?" he asked.
"So where is the restaurant?" Ninette asked. It was then that she heard a slight rustle in the bushes and a small giggle of a child. "Did you hear that?" she asked.
"Wait, what? Para-whats? I don't understand. He's still stressed from hell? Is there any way we can suppress those memories?" she asked.
"Let me see here."She messed with some things and pulled out a small sack, "This will surely relieve any pain in your muscles. It is brewed as a tea."
"It's just children playing, love." Rhom replied.
Finzdeld shook his head, "Using magic is the only thing I can do. Stress such as this takes time to heal."
"I'll take it. Any special instructions?" Felician asked.
"No. It was a giggle like a kid about to pounce on you." Ninette replied, shaking her head. There was a rustle again, but on Rhom's side.
"But he said he was fine. He told us both he wouldn't lie again." Ileya said sadly, "I wonder how long he has been keeping this from us."
"Boil until liquid is deep brown, then drink. It can be flavored with honey, if you wish."
Rhom looked over to it, "Alright, come on out. We won't hurt you."
"Too long," Finzdeld replied, "I doubt even Rhom knows."
"Thanks." he said, then handed the woman some gold, more than what the tea was worth. "Keep it." he said, "Consider it a gift for helping me."
Two white pointed ears popped up from the bushes and moved around. They then started moving away, almost as if the creature they were attached to was trying to run away.
"Told you I heard something." Ninette said.
"I'll be sure to lecture the crap out of him for lying to me again." Ileya said, "I can't believe he would keep something like this from us."
"Moon spirits bless you, cubi." She said with a small smile.
"Why do I always scare the little ones off?" Rhom asked, displeased with his ability to be approachable by children. He didn't understand; he didn't have horns or anything. Blond hair and blue-green eyes were his soft features. He rubbed his chin and felt more hair than before. That's one thing he hated about being blond; not a lot of facial hair.
"Let it pass, Ileya," Finzdeld replied, "He has too much stress on him to begin with."
Felician smiled back and decided to return to his room. Once there, he asked for some hot water and a tea cup.
The ears stopped, then quickly switched sides again. They stayed beside Ninette for a few steps, then the creature jumped out and latched onto Ninette's leg.
"Softie!!" it said with a happy smile. Ninette almost screamed and tried to shake the little creature off. It was a small child with white fox ears tipped in black. It had a puffy tail about as long as it was tall, and a strange robe, foreign to Rhom.
"But he lied again!" Ileya protested, "He could kill himself."
"Ninette, he likes you!" Rhom exclaimed, surprised by the cuteness of the child.
"And how would he do that, Ileya?" Finzdeld asked, "Jump off a building? Go crazy? No, it's just he's stressed and needs to be reassured none of those things will happen again."
Ninette then became stiff as a board. "Get it off me. Please." she said, "What is it?"
"How do we know none of those things will happen again?" Ileya asked, "We're not clairvoyant."
"It's a kitsune," Nishin answered, coming from behind them.
Rhom picked it up and held it in his arms, struggling against its attempts to latch onto Ninette again.
"It's a shape-shifting being, primarily fox-like, but also comes in the form of a small child. Mischievous little devils, but adorable, nonetheless."
"I'm talking about hell, not his nightmares," Finzdeld answered, 'All we can do is show him love and support."
The little kitsune bit Rhom's hand and jumped into Ninette's arms, nuzzling her chest. "This is softie too." it said.
Ninette's face flamed and she didn't know how to react.
"I'm sorry for snapping. I'm just worried about him. I'll make some tea for him when he wakes up. What was in the tea that you taught me calms nerves? I think you gave it to him in the Orcs' territory."
"Ow." Rhom said, holding and checking his hand, "It seems to like you."
"Watch out, Rhom," Nishin said, "They like to target males."
"Shit."
"So you can cuss?"
Rhom rolled his eyes, “What do you want?"
He shrugged, "Nothing really. Figured I'd find you two and help you around the city. Fell in any piss, yet?"
"Not yet," Rhom answered, "But I have been talking with some certain people and-"
"Hopefully the right ones." the dark elf interrupted.
"What is it to you?" Rhom asked.
"A hooded man and a whore, I guess?"
Rhom gave him a look, "How'd you know?"
"Good, you're on the right track." He put his hands in his pockets, then looked at Ninette and the fox-child, "Cute. So what are you two looking for?"
"We were heading to a restaurant." Ninette said, scratching the kitsune's ears.
It made a happy trill and sat contentedly in Ninette's arms, then looked to Rhom. "You have bad mouth."
"You have bad mouth. He has gutter mouth."
Rhom couldn't help but laugh, "I normally don't. Ninette, tell it I'm a good guy."
"I'm not 'it'! I'm a girl! My name's Niku." she said.
"Rhom really doesn't have a bad mouth. Just sometimes." Ninette said, "Wanna get some seafood with us?"
"Yeah!" Niku said happily, "Fish and crab! Love those!"
"Now I really feel my purse get lighter." Rhom said as they approached the restaurant. The smell of the sea was strong here and Rhom enjoyed it. More seagulls squawked in the air above.
"Ello!" A dark elf man called, looking to be the owner, "Eye am Yurihama, owner of gewd food. Come seet." They followed him to a table and he looked to Ninette after Rhom pulled a chair out for her, "End what cahn I geet for you, meess?"
"Hm...Do you have blue crab and tuna?" Ninette asked, "And some sushi rolls. What would you recommend?"
Niku looked over at Rhom and smiled. "Maybe your purse feels lighter because Niku took it." she said. She held the purse up and waved it back and forth. She giggled and revealed tiny fangs.
"Ooooh, kitsune child mishieveous." Yurihama said, "Yew breeng her here or she sneak in?"
"Give that back!" Rhom said, swiping for the purse.
"I brought her. She seems to be attached to me." Ninette said.
Niku laughed again and there was a small puff of smoke. "You reach for something not here." she said, "Your purse is on belt."
"Niku, be good. Otherwise I won't give you your food." Ninette warned.
Niku then put her hands down and looked at the table. "Niku will be good. Hasn't eaten meal for two days. People in uniforms kick and laugh at her."
"Uniforms?" Rhom asked, despite his irritation with the girl, "What uniforms?"
"Uniforms. Took me to fat man. Tried to cut Niku's tail off. Only got away because of fox magic." Niku said, "If Niku were bigger, she'd transform to big kitsune form and bite fat man. Bite guards. Bite everyone mean to Niku! No one wants Niku around."
"I do!" Ninette said, rubbing Niku's head, "You're so cute and adorable. Rhom, isn't she cute?"
"Very cute!" Rhom replied with a smile.
Nishin grit his teeth, "Do you know why no one wants you around? Because you're a fucking kitsune, your kind is always making people's lives worse with your tricks and magic. I hate Ganzi, but maybe he was right to try to cut off your damned tail! It'd teach you a lesson, that's for fucking sure."
"Gutter mouth doesn't scare me. You're just show." Niku said.
"Nishin, don't be such a jerk! Niku is sweet and innocent! She just likes to play tricks! It's not like she hurts people. If you're not going to be nice, then be quiet." Ninette snapped, then looked to the waiter, "Sorry about that. He's just rude. Could you please get us some water, Yurihama?"
"Ov course, wahter fore all." he repleid with a smile, then walked away.
"You don't even know the half of it," Nishin continued, “It's all fun and games now, but older kitsunes have been known to lead people to suicide. They don't just trick nobles, but also common city folk who barely get by with how they are." He gave the kitsune girl a nasty look" Let it near me and-"
"Nishin, that's enough," Rhom interrupted with a commanding attitude, "We're here to have a good snack and then return to the castle for some rest. You're welcome to join us, but with that attitude, I'll have to ask you to leave."
Nishin scoffed, then replied mockingly, "Your wish is my command, your highness." and continued to sit at the table, twiddling with a long cruel, curved dagger.
Ninette glared at Nishin and gave a small hiss.
Niku just sat and looked at the table. "If he doesn't want Niku around, she'll leave." Niku said sadly.
Ninette kicked Rhom under the table and cocked her eyebrow.
"No, Niku," Rhom said with a soft smile, "Ninette and I want you here. Nishin is just mean."
"Tch," Nishin scoffed.
"What was that?" Rhom asked, challengingly.
Yurihama walked up, giving them the waters, "And have we all decided what to eat?"
"A small crab and a piece of tuna for Niku and I will have two sushi rolls. Preferably something spicy if you have it.” Ninette said. She rubbed Niku's head and smiled.
Niku smiled and snuggled into Ninette's side.
"Yew say yew wahnt crab earlier, we hav spicy crab roll if yew like?"
"That sounds great. I'll have two." Ninette said with a smile, then looked to Rhom, "Your turn."
"I'll have the soft shell crab," Rhom said, "I love crab and this sounds delicious." Yurihama wrote it down, "Mhm, and yew, sir?" "Rice." Nishin replied. "Rice, comeeng right up!" He took their menus and returned to the kitchen.
Ninette watched Niku amuse herself with a small top, laughing softly as the Kitsune's tail flipped back and forth. "So what shall we do when we get back to our room?" Ninette asked Rhom, ignoring Nishin.
"I'm tired," Rhom replied, "I know you're energetic, but we've been walking for days and all I want is to rest my feet. These boots and socks felt amazing after that bath, but everything else is still slightly sore."
Nishin scoffed again, cleaning under his nails with the dagger while leaning back in the chair.
"Well then we can just rest on the bed and have some tea or something." Ninette suggested, "We can have someone else watch over Niku. I'm sure someone will be happy to have her company."
"You have other friends? Can Niku meet? Who are they?" Niku asked, her ears flicking excitedly.
"We have two elves," RHom answered her, leaning close to her beaming face, "Finzdeld and Ileya. A dwarf, Donnan, an Orc, Nu-grag, and another human, Favril. Last, but not least, my best friend and practically adopted brother, a demon named Keth."
"A demon? What breed?" Niku asked, "Is he big and strong?" she placed her small hands on the table and looked at Rhom with her brilliant blue eyes, her tail wagging like a happy puppy.
Rhom nodded, "A Hound of Charon and he is very strong. Strong enough that he's killed other Hounds and fought a dragon!" He showed her his Wyvern bone necklace, "He helped me obtain this."
"Must be nice to be that strong. I bet no one messes around with him. Niku wishes she could be strong like that." Niku said sadly.
"Hey, I know! When we finish eating, I'll take you to Keth and you can get to know him." Ninette said, then looked to Rhom, "You think Keth would mind her?"
Rhom shrugged, "As long as she doesn't mess with him like she does me."
"HA!" Nishin laughed, "Master Keth would never accept this rat."
"What makes you say that gutter face?!" Niku snapped, "You rude and mean! Keth sounds nice and strong. He'll like Niku!"
"Keth is actually very nice," Rhom intervened, "He has a soft heart, be it hard to get to, but it's there." "Soft heart? Keth? Ha! Master sure has gotten soft."
"Just know that all the mean things you say, I'll repeat to Keth." Niku said with a small growl, "You call him Master, so you should respect! Why are you so mean?"
"Both of you stop it." Ninette said, "Niku, just accept that Nishin is a rude, mean, arrogant, selfish, barbaric, foul-mouthed, idiot. And Nishin, accept that Niku is sweet and adorable and she'll be coming with us if she so chooses."
Nishin scoffed again, then sat back up when Yurihama brought the food. "Toonah ahnd crahb for kitsune, two crab rolls for beautiful woman, spicy crab roll for king, and bowl of rice for ahss." He said with a grin, "Aneeting else?"
Niku placed her hand over her mouth just as part part of a laugh escaped her lips. "No. I think we're fine." Ninette said politely, "Thank you very much."
He bowed, "Jus cahll if yew need aneeting."
"The old man is lucky I even support him," Nishin muttered as Yurihama walked away.
"Nishin, how old are you?" Ninette asked suddenly. Niku ignored everything and started eating her meal. Anyone could tell she had been extremely hungry.
"Twenty, why?" Rhom picked up the soft flaked crab, topped with brown sauce on a rice roll with his sticks and ate half of it, then gloried in it's wonderful taste.
"No wonder you act like such a brat! You're the equivalent of a ten year-old human child!" Ninette hissed, "Do grow up and be nicer to people." She then turned her attention to her food and ate gracefully. She, too, marveled at its flavor. Her tuna rolls were flavorful and well balanced.
Niku finished her plate within minutes, sighing with content after drinking half of her water. "That was yummy. Niku's tummy is happy now." she said, "Can I see Keth after you and N...Nin...." Niku struggled with Ninette's name.
"Just call me Nini." Ninette said with a smile.
"Okay!" Niku said happily, "Yeah. We see Keth after food right?"
"Maybe. It depends on where he is." Ninette said, "He might be out training with Finzdeld or something. He has to stay strong." Ninette couldn't get over how adorable Niku was. She loved the little kitsune. The things Nishin said about her kind just didn't make sense to her. Niku seemed so innocent.
They finished their meal and Rhom paid Yurihama along with a tip. The old man was grateful and invited them to come back. Returning to the castle, Rhom took off his boots, letting them droop onto the floor as he fell against the bed mattress, "Ah, this feels great."
"I'm going to find Keth's room and let Niku stay with him for a while. I'll be right back." Ninette said. She scooped Niku into her arms and went off to find Keth. She remembered where it was and knocked on the door softly.
Finzdeld strode to the door, "Why, hello Ninette." He spotted Niku, "And who is this cute little kitsune?"
Rhom looked to Nishin standing at the door and sat up, “So I noticed that dagger you had earleir."
"Yeah?" Nishin replied, "What of it?"
"It's similar to one a foe of mine had used, an assassin to be exact. Also, the dragoon who destroyed my home."
Nishin held a small smile on his face, “So?"
"So I want to know how you got your hands on something like that."
The dark elf sighed, "A man gave it to me. He claimed to be a dracomancer and said he was on his way to becoming even more powerful."
“Do you remember his name?"
"No, but I asked to travel with him and he declined. He said that one must make their own journey and that he was returning home."
"What did he looked like?" Rhom asked.
"So many fucking questions, by the gods, man."
"Don't be an ass, I'm just curious."
"He was tall and burly."
"Did you see any sigil?"
"What the hell is that?" The dark elf seemed to spit out of annoyance.
Rhom just let it roll off his shoudlers, but his patience was being tested, "A sigil is what a king or royal family name bears. East of my city across a border is another king, so that is why I ask. It's mainly shown by a pin to the shirt."
"Ah, yeah," Nishin remembered, "It was a bear."
Rhom's eyes grew wide, A bear? His father's sigil. Does that mean the assassin was a part of his father's army? No, he wasn't burly, but there were other men who met the description. Rhom silently cursed for not being able to narrow it down.
"I'm Niku!" she said happily. "Rhom and I found her while we were on our way to a restaurant. She's so adorable and cute. Nishin, of course, was mean to her, but she's so sweet. We told her about everyone and she seemed to want to meet Keth the most. Is he in here?" "Niku wants to meet strong demon." Niku said, "Keth can teach Niku to be strong so she won't get picked on by fatty and his guards."
Finzdeld chuckled and knelt down to her, "Sure, she can meet him, but he's asleep right now, so later?"
"Asleep? But it's barely past dusk." Ninette said, "Is he okay?" "Can Niku stay here until Keth wakes up? She'll be quiet. Promise." Niku said softly, "Demon's energy feels weak. Needs more food."
"Of course, my dear Niku," Finzdeld replied, standing, "Just don't get too close. He tends to strike if touched while he's asleep."
"What's wrong, Rhom?"
"Nothing," Rhom replied, "You can leave now if you want."
“Well, I'd like to ask you about something."
"Yeah?"
"Would you be ok if I came along with your group? I know I've been an ass lately, but I can't help it. You al are foreigners who have almost no idea how bad it is here."
"I plan on changing that," Rhom replied.
"Really?" The dark elf seemed surprised, "How?"
"Finding written information on Ganzi's crimes and sentencing him to death."
Nishin slightly nodded, "Sounds good to me, but I still want to come with you."
"Why, though?"
“Well, I'm a dark elf. Other people here may listen to me, but I think you'll have that under control once you do what you need to do. The other reason is that I'm a dracomancer."
A dracomancer! So he's a dragoon? Rhom felt anger growing from his stomach, "No, I'll never travel with a dragoon!"
"I'm not a dragoon, Rhom! I'm a dracomancer!" Nishin yelled back, "Yeah, I want to become one, but that doesn't mean I want to be like that other one!"
"So you're hungry for power?"
"Well," he laughed a little, "Yeah, basically."
"That'll go to your damn head."
"Fuck you," he spat, "Whatever, I thought I could help you, but all you are is a closed minded human." With that, he walked off.
Niku nodded and held her hands together. With a puff of smoke and a small 'pop', Niku took the form of a small white fox. She walked to Keth's bed and placed her front paws on the bed before trying to jump up. Her back paws scratched the sheets softly as she pulled herself up. She curled up at the foot of the bed and laid her head on her tiny paws.
"I'll say my goodnight here. I hope Keth feels better soon." Ninette said as she left. She returned to her room with Rhom and heard the end of their conversation. She heard Nishin yelling at Rhom and then his profanities towards the prince. In a burst of anger and irritation, Ninette built up all the strength she could muster into her arm and slapped Nishin's face as hard as she could. Her hand and arm buzzed with pain from the impact, but she refused to let it show in front of Nishin now.
"You ought to be ashamed of yourself. Rhom's just trying to help you! And if he was really close-minded, he wouldn't be engaged to me, best friends with a demon, fostered by an elf, and traveling with an Orc, a Forsaken, and a dwarf!" she snapped. The then went into her room and slammed the door. There she sat on the bed and held her wrist before letting out a small whimper.
Nishin stood, surprised and anger filling his head. He then spat on the ground outside of the door and walked away.
Rhom held her close, "Ninette! Why'd you do that?!"
"Because I'm tired of the way he's treating people! Have you noticed that he's only nice to Keth?" Ninette replied, "I mean, really. He's acting like some ill-mannered child. He was beyond mean to Niku and disrespectful to you. Someone has to teach him a lesson."
"Demon bottles stuff." Niku said softly, watching Keth breathe.
Rhom sighed, "I know. He gets on my nerves and I just wanted to beat him into the ground, but I can't and you shouldn't either."
Ileya looked at her, consumed by how cute she was, "What do you mean, sweetie?"
Ninette huffed and started changing into her sleeping clothes. She the. Slid into the bed and fluffed her pillow. "Is he going to travel with us? You know that your words won't stop him."
"He hides. Demon can only hold strong face for so long before getting tired. Niku can sense that he's battle hardened and strong. She can also see that he bottles things up. Fox magic helps Niku see that he's been suffering." she said
Ninette huffed and started changing into her sleeping clothes. She the. Slid into the bed and fluffed her pillow. "Is he going to travel with us? You know that your words won't stop him."
"He hides. Demon can only hold strong face for so long before getting tired. Niku can sense that he's battle hardened and strong. She can also see that he bottles things up. Fox magic helps Niku see that he's been suffering." she said.
"I don't know," Rhom repleid, I"ll give it some thought." He looked at her and smiled, "You're so beautiful."
'Do you know help we can help him?" Ileya asked.
Ninette's cheeks turned a light pink and she smiled. "It's natural." she said.
"No. If Niku were stronger, she could use magic and help him let go." she said, "Niku's sorry."
Ileya rubbed her head, "It's okay, Niku. We'll just wait for him to wake up." "Ileya, I need to talk to you," Finzdeld said, then smiled softly to the young kitsune, "Niku, Ileya and I will be back shortly, okay?"
Rhom rubbed her cheek with his hand, "Are all succubi attractive just for being a cubi? I mean, I know you have your charms, but right now I don't feel them. You're just..." He grinned, "Beautiful."
Niku had a big smile on her face. "Okay! Niku will keep watch over Keth." she said. "What is it? Ileya asked as she go up to Follow Finzdeld.
"Well yes. How else do you suppose we catch our prey?" Ninette asked with a sly grin, "My mother is beyond gorgeous. Take the most beautiful girl you have ever seen and my mother looks ten times better. My father will make any woman drool, even our own kind."
Finzdeld sighed, "I just want to warn you, I don't want to hurt her or anything, but she's a kitsune." He kept his voice low, "They're known for tricking people. She's young, but the older ones are more malicious. Right now she's cute and loveable, but keep an eye on her whenever someone's back is turned."
"You're the most beautiful woman I've ever seen," Rhom replied, "Although you look younger than me."
Ileya nodded. "We'll see what Keth thinks when he wakes up. I know Rhom and Ninette like her. I like her too, but I'll keep an eye on her." Her expression then changed to worry and she looked down. "Do you think Keth will be alright?"
"In time, I am older than you. But in maturity, I'm like a sixteen year-old." Ninette said, "Once I mature, I will have wings like Felician and I will look a little different."
There was worry in the old elf's eyes, "I sure hope so. He and Keth have so much on their shoulders, I'm still trying to decide of whether telling him about Keth or not."
"When will you mature and how different will you look? Other than the wings, of course."
"I think you should. Maybe he can help with a human remedy. Besides, he's Keth's best friend. He deserves to know that his friend is suffering." Ileya said, "You saw how upset I was that Keth didn't tell me." She looked down and clenched her fist. "I still want to slap him for lying to everyone."
"I'll mature when I.....How do I explain it? Once I have made a choice or have done something that requires a mature, adult action, I'll become a mature succubus. My facial features will look more like a woman instead of a young girl and I might get a teeny bit taller. Don't worry. The changes will be
Finzdeld laughed, "You've always been the peaceful, shy one. What did you do with her?"
Rhom nodded, "What about having a child?"
"I got engaged to a demon." she said, "That and this journey. I have to be strong so Keth doesn't have to....So I guess this is how he feels with all of us. And it's harder on him since he's the strongest in the group. No wonder he's been so stressed out."
"What about it? I want four kids and even after, my body will go back to normal, better than a human girl." Ninette replied, "I hope our first is a boy." She smiled and looked to Rhom. She really wanted to give Rhom a family.
The elf sighed again, "Let's go back in and wait for him."
"Would that make you fully mature?" He asked, "And I do too." He smiled back, then pulled her into his arms.
Ileya nodded. She walked back Ito the room to see Niku curled up by Keth's side, keeping a watchful eye on the sleeping demon.
"Yes. But most Cubi mature before they decide to have children. Something is bound to happen. It always does." Ninette said, snuggling against Rhom's chest, "This is nice. Too bad this place is being run by a fat loser."
Finzdeld chuckled and spoke kindly, "What are you doing, Niku?"
He combed her through her hair with his hand and his other at her hip, "Who do you think I should put in charge once I do what needs to be done with that loser?"
"Keeping watch. Niku is doing what she said she would." she said as she lifted her head, "His emotions are conflicted. Niku can feel it."
"I have no idea. I'm not good with power and politics and such." Ninette said, "Do you have someone in mind?"
"And how would you be able to help him?" Finzdeld asked her.
Rhom slightly shrugged, repositioning himself more comfortably, "Yes, but I don't like it."
"Niku can't. Not strong enough. But he needs to talk. He needs strong tea to help him relax. He needs to be out of armor for time besides sleep." Niku said.
"Who is it?" Ninette asked, pressing herself closer to Rhom.
Finzdeld put his hand to his forehead, "Of course! Why didn't I think of that? Ileya, help me get him out of his armor."
He sighed, "You're not going to like it and he isn't either, but right now, he's the only one I can think of. I'm nervous to tell you, anyways."
"But we might wake him up." she said.
"Just spit it out." Ninette said, "Otherwise, no fun for a week for you." she grinned and shook her finger.
"You're right," he replied, "I briefly forgot he doesn't like being touched." Finzdeld really did forget, but it was only because of his concern for Keth. He wanted to give him the best, from as small as making him more comfortable to showing him love. Again, he thought about spending more time with Rhom and regretted that he hadn't yet.
"Ah, come on!" Rhom replied, returning the grin, "Don't do that to me!"
"I can keep him asleep." Niku said, "Fox magic with the help of a small trick." She pulled a small sphere from her sleeve and handed it to Ileya. "Mix with water. No fire. Use fire, we all sleep."
"What is it?" Ileya asked.
"Sleep bomb. Useful in sticky situations." Niku replied. I
leya looked to Finzdeld, wondering what the elf thought.
"Then tell me who you have in mind!" Ninette said, then laughed.
Finzdeld reached his hand out, wary of the kitsune's tricks, "Let me see it."
Rhom smiled back, "Felician."
Ileya handed it over and waited. "Seems harmless to me." she said.
"Aww! You think Niku is try to trick! Niku not mean!" she protested. It was then that Keth groaned and shifted his position.
Ninette stared at Rhom in disbelief. "What? Are you serious?"
"Alright, alright! I'm sorry, Niku," Finzdeld replied softly, trying to get her to settle down. He did as she instructed, "Now what?"
His smile disappeared, "I knew you wouldn't like it."
"Mix it well. Then put it on his lips so he'll drink it and stay asleep." Niku said, "Like this. She dipped her two first fingers into the water and rubbed them across Keth's lips.
"Why my brother? You know he's going to blow up like a volcano when you tell him that. We separated him from Satissi, and now he'll be separated from me and the rest of the group. It's highly unfair." Ninette said sadly.
"How many times?" Finzdeld asked.
"He's the only one that meets what this city requires: experienced and a dark being." Rhom answered, "Plus, I think he'd be more for it if I let Satissi come here."
"Until his armor is off." Niku replied.
"If you 'let' Satissi come? Like she needs permission to." Ninette countered, "How does Felician have experience? His Red persona would go out of control here. Finzdeld wouldn't be around to use that charm. Why not use Nishin?"
"You and Ileya do this, Niku, while I get his armor off."
"I'm the king, so of course I have to clear anyone that comes permanently into the castle," Rhom replied,. He wasn't liking her attitude and he slight loosened his grip on her, "Nishin isn't exprienced. A better word for it, old enough. Felician has fought before and, with some advisors, I'm sure he'd be fine. But you're right, the Red persona is the tricky part."
"Okay." Niku said. She then put a little more of the liquid on Keth's lips. The drops rolled into his mouth and kept him asleep.
"He'll be so pissed. This news alone might make him snap." Ninette said. She noticed that Rhom had moved away, so she decided to go softer and let her charms loose.
Finzdeld began to remove his armor, then brought the blanket over him. Despite the magic Niku used, Finzdeld was still wary of waking the demon up.
"He's still under Finzdeld's command," Rhom replied. He felt it. She had seen his displeasure and had begun to charm him. He closed his eyes and sighed, taking it all in and letting it wash over him like a warm, soothing oil. He looked into her eyes, "I love you so much."

Description
"Keth wouldn't do that," Was Rhom's only response, "Come on, I want to teach you somethings about finding the people's opinions on matters." They walked around the city, seeing the different shops and items, but Rhom wasn't concerned with those.
He was concerned with how the people looked, dark elves and humans alike. No race was singled into one group; they either shared either a look of gloom or of prosperity. "You want to know of the best place to get information?" He asked Ninette.
"The kids that run the streets. Adults always run their big mouths. They forget that children hear and remember lots of things.....Right?" Ninette asked.
Felician walked along the beach, letting the ocean wind toss his hair. The dark gloom of the cloudy day fit his mood. He was confused and worried about his arm. Again and again he tried to move it, but only his fingers moved. He stared out at the waters and sighed, then continued walking. He took his boots off and walked in the shallow water, the small waves splitting around his legs.
"That works, but not all of the time." Finding a certain building after requesting directions from a city folk, he entered it. The tavern was medium size with a fire in the center, chairs surrounding it, tables on the walls and, behind the counter, were stairs to rooms.
"Oh yeah. Taverns are good. Everyone gets drunk and talks about everything." Ninette's smiled, "But don't let me drink."
She eyed the people in the room and settled on a man in the back corner. "What about him?" she asked.
Rhom looked over at him, then handed her a couple coins, "Stay at the bar where I can see you." He then walked over over sat near the man, only a table in front of him, appearing to look at Ninette so the man wouldn't suspect anything.
"Okay." She picked a seat that was close to a corner so Rhom could easily see her. She made sure she could still feel Rhom and waited.
Keth began to stir gently and he rolled to his back, muttering in his sleep.
The man looked up to Rhom, then back down to his mug. "Bad place to bring a girl like that. Get taken, she will." He took a small drink and sat back. "What do you want light heart?" he asked.
The man looked up to Rhom, then back down to his mug. "Bad place to bring a girl like that. Get taken, she will." He took a small drink and sat back. "What do you want light heart?" he asked.
"What would you say are the best places to take her?" Rhom asked him, crossing his right leg over his left and sitting back.
"Out of this city. Nothing but corruption and lies here. Fat Ganzi takes our money, then laughs as he uses it for himself and that viper he keeps by his side.
"Viper?" Rhom asked, "You mean Vevoimal?"
"That woman is meaner than any other woman you will ever meet." the man said, "If she were removed, Ganzi would fall apart and would be vulnerable to an attack. But every man who tried to dispose of her....never returned. No one knows if they're alive or dead."
Rhom shifted, resting his hands on the table and put them into his sleeves, "I need more proof. If you can get some documents that correspond with the-." He paused. Listen to yourself, Rhom, he thought, you're talking about murderers here. Of course, this was the only way to do what needed to be done, but he wouldn't kill anyone, no. If he wanted someone gone, he'd do it the respectful and honorable way. He cleared his throat, "I'm sorry, I was just remembering something, where was I? Oh yes, if you can get me some proof, I will see what I can do." He shifted his right hand and showed the man his coin purse string, "Do you know who I am?"
"I've heard from the streets. No need to mention your name here unless you want to have your purse slit." the man said, "Besides, I had an interest in all of the dark creatures you travel with. Normally a human would be scared to death." He laughed and took another drink. "Anyway, what's got you asking all of the questions? Good way to get people to distrust you."
Rhom cursed at himself. Now the guy thought something, but what, Rhom didn't know. "Then you know what I'm trying to do." He replied, "You help me, I help you."
"And what could I possibly need your help for? My own death? Because what you want to do is pure suicide. The only ones who could possibly stand a chance are Il’Nasdar and Sauvageot. You're toying with fire, boy. I'll tell you what you want, but there's not really much I can do. My hands are tied right now."
Il’Nasdar? Rhom thought, that rang a bell. "There must be something you want. Give me proof of Lord Ganzi's misdeeds and I will give this city his head, along with your request."
"I want my own problems solved and out of the way. It's tiresome being in my position and it's wearing on my patience." he said, "And if you serve Ganzi's head, might as well serve your own because you will be caught. He has guards around him night and day whether you see them or not. That snake by his side tells him everything. She has spies in the city so talking about killing him is a sure fire way to get yourself killed. And it's thinks like this that cause me so much damn stress." He downed his mug and called for another.
"Why would you question my authority if you know who I am?" Rhom asked, "The deed would be done in front of everyone, not by my own sword."
"I'm not questioning your authority. It's your sanity I'm worried about." the man said, "And just whose sword are you going to taint with Ganzi's blood? Surely you wouldn't make Il’Nasdar do it."
It was then Rhom knew who he was talking about. "He has his own promises to hold to, but I have another who glories at the sight of blood."
"I see. And what is your plan?" the man asked, "Ganzi is rarely alone. Only I know when he's ever by himself. Why should I tell you?"
"Have you not been listening, man?" Rhom exclaimed, then quieted down when everyone began to look at them, "If you give me information, I can show his guilt to the city and properly dispose of him."
"What's in it for my end? I have a balance to keep." the man said, "I might tell you....for the right price."
Rhom untied his coin purse and slipped the man a triplet of gold coins.
"You'll have to do better than that, little prince."
"How much would you say this information is worth?" Rhom decided to make the man give him his own price so that he'd know he wasn't being cheated or distrusted.
"Ten more pieces and I'll tell you everything."
Rhom gave him what he asked for and waited in silence.
"Ganzi likes taking baths but he has guards here and here." the man started, drawing on the table with his mug and finger, "At night, he has guards by his doors and window. That Vevoimal is with him as well. So don't attack then. The best time to attack is when he sits in his study. It's on the second floor of his castle and there are no guards by the window. You'll have to climb up, but he'll be completely alone. Even his snake won't be there."
"I don't want to kill him right now," Rhom said, "I only want proof of his misdeeds so that I can bring him in front of the people. This will come in handy for taking him into custody, though.
"The city itself is your proof. The elder dark elves that still mourn the loss of the sacred spring, the children running barefoot and hungry in the streets, Ganzi's heavy tithes, the written law on his gates, the oppression of the poor, the beatings of those who can't pay him, there is your proof."
"Written law on his gates and beatings for what payments?!"
"He has a written set of his laws for the city hung on his gates. Whenever he catches someone breaking those rules, or of someone can't pay the ridiculous tithes, he beats the person, and anyone who interferes, then takes what he wants from their home. The sentimental items are his favorites. He takes great pleasure in watching the people beg him not to take their things. He took a ruby ring from a child. It was a keepsake from her mother and Ganzi ripped it from the child's neck. She cried for days. Ganzi laughed."
Rhom nodded, "Thank you for this information."
"Thank me when you pull this off." the man said, "Now take your woman and leave this place. Get your friends and make a plan."
Rhom stood and put his hand on Ninette's shoulder, down her arm, then held her hand as they walked outside. "Are you okay with going to another place?" Rhom asked her, "This will be my last for getting information."
Ninette nodded. "I'm fine with it. So long as we go shopping afterwards." she said with a smile.
He smiled back and held her close, "Anywhere you like, my love."
"So where are we going next?" she asked, "Another tavern?"
"No," he replied," A brothel." Asking another citizen, he was pointed in the direction.
"A what?! No way! I don't want you going into one!" Ninette exclaimed, "Too many other girls. And not to mention, ew."
"But that's part of the economy here, love. In other to get more information, I have to find out the darkest parts."
Ninette pouted for a second. "Fine. But I'm not letting anyone touch you." She followed after Rhom and looked around at the city, taking in the surroundings.
He smiled and kissed her pouted lip, "Deal." They began to walk in the direction of the brothel, getting closer to the castle and the middle of town. It was the same as the others, just slightly bigger.
He walked in and a bell rang. Immediately a woman walked up dressed in a red corset with a long flowing dress. Her cleavage was very prominent and light makeup covered around her eyes.
"Good afternoon," She said, "My, my, what new guests we have." Her voice was soft, but authoritative. Rhom knew she treated her clients well because of that.
"Yes," He replied, "I'm looking for the head of this brothel."
"No pun intended, I presume?"
He thought back to what he said and laughed, "I thought she'd be female, so, no."
The woman laughed back and flipped her hair behind her shoulder, making her cleavage even more visible, "My name is Madam Irina, and it will be my pleasure to treat you to anything you want."
"Do you know who I am?"
"Of course, my dear, everyone knows who you are."
"I need information on Lord Ganzi's misdeeds. I've already talked with one person you may know."
"Did he tell you his name?" She had begun to stride closer to him, red lipstick more visible.
"No, but he was-"
"Hooded?" She interrupted, "He told you everything you need to know, sweetie." She was now in Rhom's face and he could feel the sweat gathering at his brow. He then remembered Ninette and tried to calm himself down, but those boobs were just... there.
Ninette hissed and popped Rhom's head to snap him back to reality. "Look at her eyes. Not her chest." she said tersely, "Cubi don't take it lightly when their mates look at others.
"Ah, a cubi," Madam Irina said, slightly backing up, "And mating with a human." She looked to Rhom, "Ever want a dark elf woman, you come see me." She winked at him, then turned to walk away.
"Rhom is mine lady. Hands off." she hissed, flicking her tail back and forth, "Come on. Let's go."
Rhom turned to leave.
"One more thing.”
“What is it?" he asked.
"If you ever need my girls, we are at your command." She replied, "When Ganzi is out of office, one of my girls will be sent to you, carrying a document. Show this to Madam Breya, in your home city, and she will understand. We can serve as your couriers, my king." She curtsied, "My whole being, not just my body, is for yours to command."
Rhom smiled and slightly bowed, "Thank you, Madam Irina."
Ninette scowled at Madam Irina and pulled Rhom away, muttering to herself. "Who does she think she is?! Hitting on a man who's taken. It's shameless."
Keth's eyes snapped open and he bolted up in his bed. He placed a hand on his forehead and looked down to see Ileya. He was glad she hadn't awoken with him, but he was still shaken by his nightmare. They were getting more and more frequent and much more violent and vivid. He felt like he was losing his mind and decided that he needed to talk to Finzdeld and soon.
Felician finally left the beach and returned to Nishin's friend's house and knocked softly on the door. "Hey. You in there?" he called.
“I'm sure she didn't mean it," Rhom replied as they exited, 'She was just trying to make sure I felt comfortable and welcome."
More tings and jingles, then the door opened, "Shit, Felician, scare the hell outta me, why don't ya?"
"Oh I'm SURE pushing her breasts in front of your face was really welcoming." Ninette said, sarcasm dripping from her voice, "Anyway, time for shopping. You promised." All traces of her irritation vanished and she regained her bubbly personality.
Keth slowly got out of the bed and left the room in search of Finzdeld. He wandered the castle halls a few times before trying to search for the elf's energy. He closed his eyes and focused on nothing but finding Finzdeld. Turning up nothing, Keth tried calling for the elf in his mind.
"Wasn't trying to." Felician replied, "Were you just...Never mind then." He turned and started to head back to the beach.
"Pick a place, any place, my dear." He tried his best to sound like Ashr. He missed the man and wondered if he had survived the attack.
Finzdeld opened Favril's door, poking his head out, "I'm here, Keth."
"Come back, you ass," Nishin replied, "What can I help you with?"
"Clothing! I've gotta get out of these!" Ninette said, "Then we can look at some jewelry."
Keth turned and smiled. His smile then faded. "Can we talk somewhere private? Ileya is sleeping in our room, so we'll have to go somewhere else."
"Ass?! You're the ass you little brat!" Felician snapped, "I was going to ask you about my arm. It's still hurting. Are you sure that friend of yours did her job right?"
"I can feel my purse getting lighter already," Rhom replied.
"Of course," Finzdeld smiled, turning to Favril, "I'll let him know, Favril, you just relax. Go outside, try to forget about it." The Forsaken boy nodded and Finzdeld closed the door, "My room?"
"What do I look like?" Nishin replied, "I'm an alchemist, not a healer." He sighed, "Come inside, I'll see what I can do."
"Oh please. I have money too." Ninette said with a smile, "Besides, I've never been one for fancy extravagant stuff. I like simplicity." She walked towards the market and regained the bounce in her step.
"Yeah. Is he okay?" Keth asked, walking with the elf.
"I'm not sure I want to go in there after what I just heard." Felician said, holding his hands up, "I'll just...I'll deal with it."
Rhom smiled and shook his head, loving this young woman with every step she took. He kept a close walk with hers, but let her go slightly ahead.
"He's fine, just homesick," Finzdeld replied as they walked into his room, "What is it you need to talk about?"
"Shit, it's just me and my chemicals."
She walked into the market and started looking at the merchants who sold clothes. She saw Rhom was back behind her so she reached back and pulled his hand. She gave a happy smile and her hair bounced around her shoulders. "Come on! This store looks interesting." she said. She looked around at the clothes and settled on a thin, loose blouse in a dark green. "What do you think?"
"This is probably going to sound pathetic, but I keep having nightmares of my torture and of hell. They have been recurring more and more often. I should be....Shouldn't I be over it by now?" Keth asked.
"Uh-huh. Sure." Felician said warily. He slowly walked inside, half expecting to see a naked girl in a pile of sheets.
Rhom looked at it, "You like that kind of green?"
"I would be too, if I had been in a place like that," Finzdeld replied, "Have you tried asking Erenus for any help?"
"Excuse the mess." Nishin said, stepping over some equipment.
"I think it's pretty." she said, "I like dark and light colors. Greens I like dark."
"Erenus has other matters to attend to. He can't drop everything because one of his followers is having nightmares like a scared child. And I figured I would ask my father first." Keth said. He then ran his fingers over his head and gripped his hair. "It's maddening. I pushed those memories back to the corners of my mind and yet they keep coming back. They're so vivid and wild, it's gettig hard to believe they're just nightmares."
"Mess? More like small cataclysm." Felician said, "What the hell do you concoct in here?"
"And what would you buy for bottoms to go with it?" Rhom asked with a smile.
"Is it because Charon's thirst for your soul?"
Nishin gave an awkward smile, "If I told you, you probably wouldn't like it. I know Keth didn't. And Ileya, damn, she looked pissed."
"Something loose. I can't wear short stuff much longer. It's starting to get cooler." Ninette replied, "I was thinking something in black or dark brown. What do you think?"
"It's possible. It could be effects from the Borovian Death curse. It could be my own unrest. I don't know." Keth said, "I'm getting scared and worried. And if my emotions get the better of me, I won't be able to protect the ones I care about. Can you help me? Block my memories or something? I've tried selective memory, meditation, and other coping methods, but nothing is working."
"Dragons?" Felician asked, a flat, unimpressed expression on his face.
"Simple," He replied, "Black seems to be fine because it goes with everything, but brown with this gives you a little bit of the forest look. Reminds me of when I found you."
"The next time you sleep, I could use a calm spell right when I think you've drifted."
"How'd you know?" Nishin asked, quite surprised, "Keth tell you?"
"Then I'll look for something in brown." she said with a giggle. When she found a pair of pants she liked, she reached into her pocket and pulled out a small handful of gold coins.
"That could help. Might as well follow me back to my room then." Keth said, "It may be early, but I'm still exhausted. These nightmares are starting to interfere with my rest." He opened the door and started to walk back to the room he shared with Ileya.
"No. I just know from history that demons and elves have a mutual dislike for dragons. Demons are weakened and often rendered powerless. Elves, the same, but by a greater magnitude." Felician replied.
"Love, let me pay for it," Rhom lovingly protested.
Ileya sat up in bed, "That was a nice nap. Hello, Finzdeld."
"Hello Ileya, decided not to call me master anymore?"
She rubbed the back of her head, "No one else does and we're away form the Circle. I thought I should give it a break, then."
"But you were fussing about feeling your purse getting lighter already." Ninette teased.
"I hope I didn't wake you when I left." Keth said as he sat on the bed. Ileya could see the dark circles under Keth's eyes and his pale complexion. He didn't look like his usual strong self. He looked tired and almost fragile with stress.
"Actually," Nishin said, "Elves made dragons, we aren't weakened, but strengthened if we can control one. And to think there were elves who could control more than one. Ever heard about dragoons?"
"No. What's a dragoon?" Felician asked. He sat in a chair he deemed safe to touch and rested his hand on his injured arm.
"A dragoon is when someone merges themselves with a dragon. It requires a true bond between mancer and dragon. Other than that, I have no idea how to do it, even my own dragon won't tell me." He rolled his eyes at the thought of Feilong with a slight smile.
"It was a joke, I'll treat you to anything." Rhom replied.
The cashier looked at him and gasped, her human face lighting up, "Prince Rhom?"
"Yes?" He staggered slightly back from her excitement.
Her young teenager face lighting up when she talked, "It's so good to see you here! I knew you'd come help us!"
He slightly blushed, "Well, to be honest, I had no idea you all needed help until I came."
"Well, you're here now! And because of that, I'll give you these for free." Her smile and hospitable nature was heartwarming.
"Oh, no, it's fine, I can pay for them."
"Please," She protested, "In honor of my family's gratitude, I insist."
Rhom nodded, "Well, thank you. What is your name?"
"My family name? It is Thirunis. We are a lowly cloth merchant family, you've probably never heard of us."
"Thirunis?" Rhom replied, "Wow! You've designed the majority of clothes I have in my wardrobe at home."
Her face glowed even more, "Really? Are you satisfied with them?"
"Of course I am! The most breathable and softest fabric I have ever worn, except for on the battlefield, though, but, as you know, we rarely have battles."
She giggled, "For all of your fancy needs. It's getting closer to winter, be sure to pick something warm for you and your beautiful woman here, your grace."
That struck him. Only his father was called that by his people. The word sent a shiver down his spine and warmth in his heart. Freeing these people was something new now. Not only did they deserve it, but they deserved someone who could connect with them. He looked at Ninette and smiled. His father would have made sure of it and so will he.
"You did, but I fell back. I was so sleepy, but glad I had that nap." She replied, "Are you okay?"
"You have your own dragon?" Felician asked, slightly intrigued, "Must be nice to have enough power to control one."
"Well, Miss Thirunis, do you have a place where I can change?" Ninette asked with a smile, "These tight rough clothes were provided by His Chubbiness Ganzi and I'd like to get out of them."
"I don't know. My exhaustion refuses to subside no matter how much I sleep. It's wearing me down and at this rate, I'll be useless to everyone." Keth replied, "I hope I didn't just make you worry."
Nishin shrugged, "It gets pretty cool sometimes. Unlike the other dragons, he doesn't really have any oral powers. His are more verbal, even calling him requires my voice."
She giggled, walking Ninette to the changing room, "Yes, mi lady, right over here."
"Well, now I am," She replied, looking to Finzdeld, "Going to use calm on him?" Finzdeld nodded, "Alright, Keth, lay down and try to get some sleep."
Felician nodded. "If I could control a dragon I would get rid of a certain someone." he said, thinking of Ganzi.
Ninette quickly changed out of her clothes and into her new set. She sighed in relief as the loose clothing brushed her skin. "Now this feels so much better." she said as she came out, "You like?"
Keth nodded and laid back, trying to get comfortable. He was going to say one last thing to Finzdeld, but his eyes refused to stay open and his body began to shut down. His mind, however, remained active.
"A human, I guess? Someone who did you wrong just because of your race?"
"Love it." Rhom replied. "You're beautiful, mi lady." the cashier said.
The Illusion magic came to Finzdeld's hand as he pulled a chair up behind him and sat by Keth, brushing his forehead and the hair away from it, "Sleep, my son."
"I already killed those who persecuted me because of my race. They tried to hang me and killed someone very dear to me." Felician answered, "I was thinking on the lines of Ganzi."
Ninette's cheeks turned pink and she smiled. "Thanks." she said, "Where to next?"
Keth's mind began running through his memories and brought up the black flames that had burned him for so long in hell. He saw nothing but the desolate wasteland, felt nothing but the sting of abandonment. It ate at him and he stirred in his sleep.
"Still on that, man? By the gods, if it bothers you so much, go talk to Rhom."
"Anywhere you want." Rhom replied, then looked to the girl, "What is the best restaurant here?" "There's not much to choose from," She replied, "Mainly just seafood, but there is Yurihama's down by the shore."
The magic began to fade due to its use and Finzdeld kept stroking Keth's forehead, "It's going to be okay, my son."
"Fine! Just fix my arm! That's what I came here for anyway." Felician hissed, "Jeez. You're such a pain in the ass."
"I haven't had good seafood in ages!" Ninette said, "Let's go there!"
Keth's mind battled against the magic and slowly started to lose. Eventually, it fell and Keth was granted a restful sleep.
"Well fuck! I told you I can't!" Nishin countered, walking over to him, looking at the bruises, "It's barely been a day yet. If it hurts tomorrow, come to me."
Rhom chuckled, "Alright." "Have a nice day!" The girl called as they left.
The aura was gone and Finzdeld smiled, seeing Keth asleep.
Felician stood and walked away.
"Bye!" Ninette said, waving. She then hugged Rhom's arm and walked with him.
"Alright Finzdeld, spill. What's wrong with Keth? He's been looking sickly and weak for a few days now. What's going on?" Ileya asked.
Nishin smiled, knowing he pissed Felician off.
Rhom placed his hand on Ninette's as they walked.
"He's suffering from excessive daytime sleepiness and parasomnias, primarily sleep terrors caused by his stress of hell." Finzdeld answered, "If he ever wakes you up, don't be afraid to use calm. It seems to be the only thing helping."
Felician started to walk into the market, looking for something to dull his pain or at least take his mind off of it. He browsed several shops selling herbs and other medicinal paraphernalia, then came to an old woman. "Hey, old woman. Do you have anything to dull pain?" he asked.
"So where is the restaurant?" Ninette asked. It was then that she heard a slight rustle in the bushes and a small giggle of a child. "Did you hear that?" she asked.
"Wait, what? Para-whats? I don't understand. He's still stressed from hell? Is there any way we can suppress those memories?" she asked.
"Let me see here."She messed with some things and pulled out a small sack, "This will surely relieve any pain in your muscles. It is brewed as a tea."
"It's just children playing, love." Rhom replied.
Finzdeld shook his head, "Using magic is the only thing I can do. Stress such as this takes time to heal."
"I'll take it. Any special instructions?" Felician asked.
"No. It was a giggle like a kid about to pounce on you." Ninette replied, shaking her head. There was a rustle again, but on Rhom's side.
"But he said he was fine. He told us both he wouldn't lie again." Ileya said sadly, "I wonder how long he has been keeping this from us."
"Boil until liquid is deep brown, then drink. It can be flavored with honey, if you wish."
Rhom looked over to it, "Alright, come on out. We won't hurt you."
"Too long," Finzdeld replied, "I doubt even Rhom knows."
"Thanks." he said, then handed the woman some gold, more than what the tea was worth. "Keep it." he said, "Consider it a gift for helping me."
Two white pointed ears popped up from the bushes and moved around. They then started moving away, almost as if the creature they were attached to was trying to run away.
"Told you I heard something." Ninette said.
"I'll be sure to lecture the crap out of him for lying to me again." Ileya said, "I can't believe he would keep something like this from us."
"Moon spirits bless you, cubi." She said with a small smile.
"Why do I always scare the little ones off?" Rhom asked, displeased with his ability to be approachable by children. He didn't understand; he didn't have horns or anything. Blond hair and blue-green eyes were his soft features. He rubbed his chin and felt more hair than before. That's one thing he hated about being blond; not a lot of facial hair.
"Let it pass, Ileya," Finzdeld replied, "He has too much stress on him to begin with."
Felician smiled back and decided to return to his room. Once there, he asked for some hot water and a tea cup.
The ears stopped, then quickly switched sides again. They stayed beside Ninette for a few steps, then the creature jumped out and latched onto Ninette's leg.
"Softie!!" it said with a happy smile. Ninette almost screamed and tried to shake the little creature off. It was a small child with white fox ears tipped in black. It had a puffy tail about as long as it was tall, and a strange robe, foreign to Rhom.
"But he lied again!" Ileya protested, "He could kill himself."
"Ninette, he likes you!" Rhom exclaimed, surprised by the cuteness of the child.
"And how would he do that, Ileya?" Finzdeld asked, "Jump off a building? Go crazy? No, it's just he's stressed and needs to be reassured none of those things will happen again."
Ninette then became stiff as a board. "Get it off me. Please." she said, "What is it?"
"How do we know none of those things will happen again?" Ileya asked, "We're not clairvoyant."
"It's a kitsune," Nishin answered, coming from behind them.
Rhom picked it up and held it in his arms, struggling against its attempts to latch onto Ninette again.
"It's a shape-shifting being, primarily fox-like, but also comes in the form of a small child. Mischievous little devils, but adorable, nonetheless."
"I'm talking about hell, not his nightmares," Finzdeld answered, 'All we can do is show him love and support."
The little kitsune bit Rhom's hand and jumped into Ninette's arms, nuzzling her chest. "This is softie too." it said.
Ninette's face flamed and she didn't know how to react.
"I'm sorry for snapping. I'm just worried about him. I'll make some tea for him when he wakes up. What was in the tea that you taught me calms nerves? I think you gave it to him in the Orcs' territory."
"Ow." Rhom said, holding and checking his hand, "It seems to like you."
"Watch out, Rhom," Nishin said, "They like to target males."
"Shit."
"So you can cuss?"
Rhom rolled his eyes, “What do you want?"
He shrugged, "Nothing really. Figured I'd find you two and help you around the city. Fell in any piss, yet?"
"Not yet," Rhom answered, "But I have been talking with some certain people and-"
"Hopefully the right ones." the dark elf interrupted.
"What is it to you?" Rhom asked.
"A hooded man and a whore, I guess?"
Rhom gave him a look, "How'd you know?"
"Good, you're on the right track." He put his hands in his pockets, then looked at Ninette and the fox-child, "Cute. So what are you two looking for?"
"We were heading to a restaurant." Ninette said, scratching the kitsune's ears.
It made a happy trill and sat contentedly in Ninette's arms, then looked to Rhom. "You have bad mouth."
"You have bad mouth. He has gutter mouth."
Rhom couldn't help but laugh, "I normally don't. Ninette, tell it I'm a good guy."
"I'm not 'it'! I'm a girl! My name's Niku." she said.
"Rhom really doesn't have a bad mouth. Just sometimes." Ninette said, "Wanna get some seafood with us?"
"Yeah!" Niku said happily, "Fish and crab! Love those!"
"Now I really feel my purse get lighter." Rhom said as they approached the restaurant. The smell of the sea was strong here and Rhom enjoyed it. More seagulls squawked in the air above.
"Ello!" A dark elf man called, looking to be the owner, "Eye am Yurihama, owner of gewd food. Come seet." They followed him to a table and he looked to Ninette after Rhom pulled a chair out for her, "End what cahn I geet for you, meess?"
"Hm...Do you have blue crab and tuna?" Ninette asked, "And some sushi rolls. What would you recommend?"
Niku looked over at Rhom and smiled. "Maybe your purse feels lighter because Niku took it." she said. She held the purse up and waved it back and forth. She giggled and revealed tiny fangs.
"Ooooh, kitsune child mishieveous." Yurihama said, "Yew breeng her here or she sneak in?"
"Give that back!" Rhom said, swiping for the purse.
"I brought her. She seems to be attached to me." Ninette said.
Niku laughed again and there was a small puff of smoke. "You reach for something not here." she said, "Your purse is on belt."
"Niku, be good. Otherwise I won't give you your food." Ninette warned.
Niku then put her hands down and looked at the table. "Niku will be good. Hasn't eaten meal for two days. People in uniforms kick and laugh at her."
"Uniforms?" Rhom asked, despite his irritation with the girl, "What uniforms?"
"Uniforms. Took me to fat man. Tried to cut Niku's tail off. Only got away because of fox magic." Niku said, "If Niku were bigger, she'd transform to big kitsune form and bite fat man. Bite guards. Bite everyone mean to Niku! No one wants Niku around."
"I do!" Ninette said, rubbing Niku's head, "You're so cute and adorable. Rhom, isn't she cute?"
"Very cute!" Rhom replied with a smile.
Nishin grit his teeth, "Do you know why no one wants you around? Because you're a fucking kitsune, your kind is always making people's lives worse with your tricks and magic. I hate Ganzi, but maybe he was right to try to cut off your damned tail! It'd teach you a lesson, that's for fucking sure."
"Gutter mouth doesn't scare me. You're just show." Niku said.
"Nishin, don't be such a jerk! Niku is sweet and innocent! She just likes to play tricks! It's not like she hurts people. If you're not going to be nice, then be quiet." Ninette snapped, then looked to the waiter, "Sorry about that. He's just rude. Could you please get us some water, Yurihama?"
"Ov course, wahter fore all." he repleid with a smile, then walked away.
"You don't even know the half of it," Nishin continued, “It's all fun and games now, but older kitsunes have been known to lead people to suicide. They don't just trick nobles, but also common city folk who barely get by with how they are." He gave the kitsune girl a nasty look" Let it near me and-"
"Nishin, that's enough," Rhom interrupted with a commanding attitude, "We're here to have a good snack and then return to the castle for some rest. You're welcome to join us, but with that attitude, I'll have to ask you to leave."
Nishin scoffed, then replied mockingly, "Your wish is my command, your highness." and continued to sit at the table, twiddling with a long cruel, curved dagger.
Ninette glared at Nishin and gave a small hiss.
Niku just sat and looked at the table. "If he doesn't want Niku around, she'll leave." Niku said sadly.
Ninette kicked Rhom under the table and cocked her eyebrow.
"No, Niku," Rhom said with a soft smile, "Ninette and I want you here. Nishin is just mean."
"Tch," Nishin scoffed.
"What was that?" Rhom asked, challengingly.
Yurihama walked up, giving them the waters, "And have we all decided what to eat?"
"A small crab and a piece of tuna for Niku and I will have two sushi rolls. Preferably something spicy if you have it.” Ninette said. She rubbed Niku's head and smiled.
Niku smiled and snuggled into Ninette's side.
"Yew say yew wahnt crab earlier, we hav spicy crab roll if yew like?"
"That sounds great. I'll have two." Ninette said with a smile, then looked to Rhom, "Your turn."
"I'll have the soft shell crab," Rhom said, "I love crab and this sounds delicious." Yurihama wrote it down, "Mhm, and yew, sir?" "Rice." Nishin replied. "Rice, comeeng right up!" He took their menus and returned to the kitchen.
Ninette watched Niku amuse herself with a small top, laughing softly as the Kitsune's tail flipped back and forth. "So what shall we do when we get back to our room?" Ninette asked Rhom, ignoring Nishin.
"I'm tired," Rhom replied, "I know you're energetic, but we've been walking for days and all I want is to rest my feet. These boots and socks felt amazing after that bath, but everything else is still slightly sore."
Nishin scoffed again, cleaning under his nails with the dagger while leaning back in the chair.
"Well then we can just rest on the bed and have some tea or something." Ninette suggested, "We can have someone else watch over Niku. I'm sure someone will be happy to have her company."
"You have other friends? Can Niku meet? Who are they?" Niku asked, her ears flicking excitedly.
"We have two elves," RHom answered her, leaning close to her beaming face, "Finzdeld and Ileya. A dwarf, Donnan, an Orc, Nu-grag, and another human, Favril. Last, but not least, my best friend and practically adopted brother, a demon named Keth."
"A demon? What breed?" Niku asked, "Is he big and strong?" she placed her small hands on the table and looked at Rhom with her brilliant blue eyes, her tail wagging like a happy puppy.
Rhom nodded, "A Hound of Charon and he is very strong. Strong enough that he's killed other Hounds and fought a dragon!" He showed her his Wyvern bone necklace, "He helped me obtain this."
"Must be nice to be that strong. I bet no one messes around with him. Niku wishes she could be strong like that." Niku said sadly.
"Hey, I know! When we finish eating, I'll take you to Keth and you can get to know him." Ninette said, then looked to Rhom, "You think Keth would mind her?"
Rhom shrugged, "As long as she doesn't mess with him like she does me."
"HA!" Nishin laughed, "Master Keth would never accept this rat."
"What makes you say that gutter face?!" Niku snapped, "You rude and mean! Keth sounds nice and strong. He'll like Niku!"
"Keth is actually very nice," Rhom intervened, "He has a soft heart, be it hard to get to, but it's there." "Soft heart? Keth? Ha! Master sure has gotten soft."
"Just know that all the mean things you say, I'll repeat to Keth." Niku said with a small growl, "You call him Master, so you should respect! Why are you so mean?"
"Both of you stop it." Ninette said, "Niku, just accept that Nishin is a rude, mean, arrogant, selfish, barbaric, foul-mouthed, idiot. And Nishin, accept that Niku is sweet and adorable and she'll be coming with us if she so chooses."
Nishin scoffed again, then sat back up when Yurihama brought the food. "Toonah ahnd crahb for kitsune, two crab rolls for beautiful woman, spicy crab roll for king, and bowl of rice for ahss." He said with a grin, "Aneeting else?"
Niku placed her hand over her mouth just as part part of a laugh escaped her lips. "No. I think we're fine." Ninette said politely, "Thank you very much."
He bowed, "Jus cahll if yew need aneeting."
"The old man is lucky I even support him," Nishin muttered as Yurihama walked away.
"Nishin, how old are you?" Ninette asked suddenly. Niku ignored everything and started eating her meal. Anyone could tell she had been extremely hungry.
"Twenty, why?" Rhom picked up the soft flaked crab, topped with brown sauce on a rice roll with his sticks and ate half of it, then gloried in it's wonderful taste.
"No wonder you act like such a brat! You're the equivalent of a ten year-old human child!" Ninette hissed, "Do grow up and be nicer to people." She then turned her attention to her food and ate gracefully. She, too, marveled at its flavor. Her tuna rolls were flavorful and well balanced.
Niku finished her plate within minutes, sighing with content after drinking half of her water. "That was yummy. Niku's tummy is happy now." she said, "Can I see Keth after you and N...Nin...." Niku struggled with Ninette's name.
"Just call me Nini." Ninette said with a smile.
"Okay!" Niku said happily, "Yeah. We see Keth after food right?"
"Maybe. It depends on where he is." Ninette said, "He might be out training with Finzdeld or something. He has to stay strong." Ninette couldn't get over how adorable Niku was. She loved the little kitsune. The things Nishin said about her kind just didn't make sense to her. Niku seemed so innocent.
They finished their meal and Rhom paid Yurihama along with a tip. The old man was grateful and invited them to come back. Returning to the castle, Rhom took off his boots, letting them droop onto the floor as he fell against the bed mattress, "Ah, this feels great."
"I'm going to find Keth's room and let Niku stay with him for a while. I'll be right back." Ninette said. She scooped Niku into her arms and went off to find Keth. She remembered where it was and knocked on the door softly.
Finzdeld strode to the door, "Why, hello Ninette." He spotted Niku, "And who is this cute little kitsune?"
Rhom looked to Nishin standing at the door and sat up, “So I noticed that dagger you had earleir."
"Yeah?" Nishin replied, "What of it?"
"It's similar to one a foe of mine had used, an assassin to be exact. Also, the dragoon who destroyed my home."
Nishin held a small smile on his face, “So?"
"So I want to know how you got your hands on something like that."
The dark elf sighed, "A man gave it to me. He claimed to be a dracomancer and said he was on his way to becoming even more powerful."
“Do you remember his name?"
"No, but I asked to travel with him and he declined. He said that one must make their own journey and that he was returning home."
"What did he looked like?" Rhom asked.
"So many fucking questions, by the gods, man."
"Don't be an ass, I'm just curious."
"He was tall and burly."
"Did you see any sigil?"
"What the hell is that?" The dark elf seemed to spit out of annoyance.
Rhom just let it roll off his shoudlers, but his patience was being tested, "A sigil is what a king or royal family name bears. East of my city across a border is another king, so that is why I ask. It's mainly shown by a pin to the shirt."
"Ah, yeah," Nishin remembered, "It was a bear."
Rhom's eyes grew wide, A bear? His father's sigil. Does that mean the assassin was a part of his father's army? No, he wasn't burly, but there were other men who met the description. Rhom silently cursed for not being able to narrow it down.
"I'm Niku!" she said happily. "Rhom and I found her while we were on our way to a restaurant. She's so adorable and cute. Nishin, of course, was mean to her, but she's so sweet. We told her about everyone and she seemed to want to meet Keth the most. Is he in here?" "Niku wants to meet strong demon." Niku said, "Keth can teach Niku to be strong so she won't get picked on by fatty and his guards."
Finzdeld chuckled and knelt down to her, "Sure, she can meet him, but he's asleep right now, so later?"
"Asleep? But it's barely past dusk." Ninette said, "Is he okay?" "Can Niku stay here until Keth wakes up? She'll be quiet. Promise." Niku said softly, "Demon's energy feels weak. Needs more food."
"Of course, my dear Niku," Finzdeld replied, standing, "Just don't get too close. He tends to strike if touched while he's asleep."
"What's wrong, Rhom?"
"Nothing," Rhom replied, "You can leave now if you want."
“Well, I'd like to ask you about something."
"Yeah?"
"Would you be ok if I came along with your group? I know I've been an ass lately, but I can't help it. You al are foreigners who have almost no idea how bad it is here."
"I plan on changing that," Rhom replied.
"Really?" The dark elf seemed surprised, "How?"
"Finding written information on Ganzi's crimes and sentencing him to death."
Nishin slightly nodded, "Sounds good to me, but I still want to come with you."
"Why, though?"
“Well, I'm a dark elf. Other people here may listen to me, but I think you'll have that under control once you do what you need to do. The other reason is that I'm a dracomancer."
A dracomancer! So he's a dragoon? Rhom felt anger growing from his stomach, "No, I'll never travel with a dragoon!"
"I'm not a dragoon, Rhom! I'm a dracomancer!" Nishin yelled back, "Yeah, I want to become one, but that doesn't mean I want to be like that other one!"
"So you're hungry for power?"
"Well," he laughed a little, "Yeah, basically."
"That'll go to your damn head."
"Fuck you," he spat, "Whatever, I thought I could help you, but all you are is a closed minded human." With that, he walked off.
Niku nodded and held her hands together. With a puff of smoke and a small 'pop', Niku took the form of a small white fox. She walked to Keth's bed and placed her front paws on the bed before trying to jump up. Her back paws scratched the sheets softly as she pulled herself up. She curled up at the foot of the bed and laid her head on her tiny paws.
"I'll say my goodnight here. I hope Keth feels better soon." Ninette said as she left. She returned to her room with Rhom and heard the end of their conversation. She heard Nishin yelling at Rhom and then his profanities towards the prince. In a burst of anger and irritation, Ninette built up all the strength she could muster into her arm and slapped Nishin's face as hard as she could. Her hand and arm buzzed with pain from the impact, but she refused to let it show in front of Nishin now.
"You ought to be ashamed of yourself. Rhom's just trying to help you! And if he was really close-minded, he wouldn't be engaged to me, best friends with a demon, fostered by an elf, and traveling with an Orc, a Forsaken, and a dwarf!" she snapped. The then went into her room and slammed the door. There she sat on the bed and held her wrist before letting out a small whimper.
Nishin stood, surprised and anger filling his head. He then spat on the ground outside of the door and walked away.
Rhom held her close, "Ninette! Why'd you do that?!"
"Because I'm tired of the way he's treating people! Have you noticed that he's only nice to Keth?" Ninette replied, "I mean, really. He's acting like some ill-mannered child. He was beyond mean to Niku and disrespectful to you. Someone has to teach him a lesson."
"Demon bottles stuff." Niku said softly, watching Keth breathe.
Rhom sighed, "I know. He gets on my nerves and I just wanted to beat him into the ground, but I can't and you shouldn't either."
Ileya looked at her, consumed by how cute she was, "What do you mean, sweetie?"
Ninette huffed and started changing into her sleeping clothes. She the. Slid into the bed and fluffed her pillow. "Is he going to travel with us? You know that your words won't stop him."
"He hides. Demon can only hold strong face for so long before getting tired. Niku can sense that he's battle hardened and strong. She can also see that he bottles things up. Fox magic helps Niku see that he's been suffering." she said
Ninette huffed and started changing into her sleeping clothes. She the. Slid into the bed and fluffed her pillow. "Is he going to travel with us? You know that your words won't stop him."
"He hides. Demon can only hold strong face for so long before getting tired. Niku can sense that he's battle hardened and strong. She can also see that he bottles things up. Fox magic helps Niku see that he's been suffering." she said.
"I don't know," Rhom repleid, I"ll give it some thought." He looked at her and smiled, "You're so beautiful."
'Do you know help we can help him?" Ileya asked.
Ninette's cheeks turned a light pink and she smiled. "It's natural." she said.
"No. If Niku were stronger, she could use magic and help him let go." she said, "Niku's sorry."
Ileya rubbed her head, "It's okay, Niku. We'll just wait for him to wake up." "Ileya, I need to talk to you," Finzdeld said, then smiled softly to the young kitsune, "Niku, Ileya and I will be back shortly, okay?"
Rhom rubbed her cheek with his hand, "Are all succubi attractive just for being a cubi? I mean, I know you have your charms, but right now I don't feel them. You're just..." He grinned, "Beautiful."
Niku had a big smile on her face. "Okay! Niku will keep watch over Keth." she said. "What is it? Ileya asked as she go up to Follow Finzdeld.
"Well yes. How else do you suppose we catch our prey?" Ninette asked with a sly grin, "My mother is beyond gorgeous. Take the most beautiful girl you have ever seen and my mother looks ten times better. My father will make any woman drool, even our own kind."
Finzdeld sighed, "I just want to warn you, I don't want to hurt her or anything, but she's a kitsune." He kept his voice low, "They're known for tricking people. She's young, but the older ones are more malicious. Right now she's cute and loveable, but keep an eye on her whenever someone's back is turned."
"You're the most beautiful woman I've ever seen," Rhom replied, "Although you look younger than me."
Ileya nodded. "We'll see what Keth thinks when he wakes up. I know Rhom and Ninette like her. I like her too, but I'll keep an eye on her." Her expression then changed to worry and she looked down. "Do you think Keth will be alright?"
"In time, I am older than you. But in maturity, I'm like a sixteen year-old." Ninette said, "Once I mature, I will have wings like Felician and I will look a little different."
There was worry in the old elf's eyes, "I sure hope so. He and Keth have so much on their shoulders, I'm still trying to decide of whether telling him about Keth or not."
"When will you mature and how different will you look? Other than the wings, of course."
"I think you should. Maybe he can help with a human remedy. Besides, he's Keth's best friend. He deserves to know that his friend is suffering." Ileya said, "You saw how upset I was that Keth didn't tell me." She looked down and clenched her fist. "I still want to slap him for lying to everyone."
"I'll mature when I.....How do I explain it? Once I have made a choice or have done something that requires a mature, adult action, I'll become a mature succubus. My facial features will look more like a woman instead of a young girl and I might get a teeny bit taller. Don't worry. The changes will be
Finzdeld laughed, "You've always been the peaceful, shy one. What did you do with her?"
Rhom nodded, "What about having a child?"
"I got engaged to a demon." she said, "That and this journey. I have to be strong so Keth doesn't have to....So I guess this is how he feels with all of us. And it's harder on him since he's the strongest in the group. No wonder he's been so stressed out."
"What about it? I want four kids and even after, my body will go back to normal, better than a human girl." Ninette replied, "I hope our first is a boy." She smiled and looked to Rhom. She really wanted to give Rhom a family.
The elf sighed again, "Let's go back in and wait for him."
"Would that make you fully mature?" He asked, "And I do too." He smiled back, then pulled her into his arms.
Ileya nodded. She walked back Ito the room to see Niku curled up by Keth's side, keeping a watchful eye on the sleeping demon.
"Yes. But most Cubi mature before they decide to have children. Something is bound to happen. It always does." Ninette said, snuggling against Rhom's chest, "This is nice. Too bad this place is being run by a fat loser."
Finzdeld chuckled and spoke kindly, "What are you doing, Niku?"
He combed her through her hair with his hand and his other at her hip, "Who do you think I should put in charge once I do what needs to be done with that loser?"
"Keeping watch. Niku is doing what she said she would." she said as she lifted her head, "His emotions are conflicted. Niku can feel it."
"I have no idea. I'm not good with power and politics and such." Ninette said, "Do you have someone in mind?"
"And how would you be able to help him?" Finzdeld asked her.
Rhom slightly shrugged, repositioning himself more comfortably, "Yes, but I don't like it."
"Niku can't. Not strong enough. But he needs to talk. He needs strong tea to help him relax. He needs to be out of armor for time besides sleep." Niku said.
"Who is it?" Ninette asked, pressing herself closer to Rhom.
Finzdeld put his hand to his forehead, "Of course! Why didn't I think of that? Ileya, help me get him out of his armor."
He sighed, "You're not going to like it and he isn't either, but right now, he's the only one I can think of. I'm nervous to tell you, anyways."
"But we might wake him up." she said.
"Just spit it out." Ninette said, "Otherwise, no fun for a week for you." she grinned and shook her finger.
"You're right," he replied, "I briefly forgot he doesn't like being touched." Finzdeld really did forget, but it was only because of his concern for Keth. He wanted to give him the best, from as small as making him more comfortable to showing him love. Again, he thought about spending more time with Rhom and regretted that he hadn't yet.
"Ah, come on!" Rhom replied, returning the grin, "Don't do that to me!"
"I can keep him asleep." Niku said, "Fox magic with the help of a small trick." She pulled a small sphere from her sleeve and handed it to Ileya. "Mix with water. No fire. Use fire, we all sleep."
"What is it?" Ileya asked.
"Sleep bomb. Useful in sticky situations." Niku replied. I
leya looked to Finzdeld, wondering what the elf thought.
"Then tell me who you have in mind!" Ninette said, then laughed.
Finzdeld reached his hand out, wary of the kitsune's tricks, "Let me see it."
Rhom smiled back, "Felician."
Ileya handed it over and waited. "Seems harmless to me." she said.
"Aww! You think Niku is try to trick! Niku not mean!" she protested. It was then that Keth groaned and shifted his position.
Ninette stared at Rhom in disbelief. "What? Are you serious?"
"Alright, alright! I'm sorry, Niku," Finzdeld replied softly, trying to get her to settle down. He did as she instructed, "Now what?"
His smile disappeared, "I knew you wouldn't like it."
"Mix it well. Then put it on his lips so he'll drink it and stay asleep." Niku said, "Like this. She dipped her two first fingers into the water and rubbed them across Keth's lips.
"Why my brother? You know he's going to blow up like a volcano when you tell him that. We separated him from Satissi, and now he'll be separated from me and the rest of the group. It's highly unfair." Ninette said sadly.
"How many times?" Finzdeld asked.
"He's the only one that meets what this city requires: experienced and a dark being." Rhom answered, "Plus, I think he'd be more for it if I let Satissi come here."
"Until his armor is off." Niku replied.
"If you 'let' Satissi come? Like she needs permission to." Ninette countered, "How does Felician have experience? His Red persona would go out of control here. Finzdeld wouldn't be around to use that charm. Why not use Nishin?"
"You and Ileya do this, Niku, while I get his armor off."
"I'm the king, so of course I have to clear anyone that comes permanently into the castle," Rhom replied,. He wasn't liking her attitude and he slight loosened his grip on her, "Nishin isn't exprienced. A better word for it, old enough. Felician has fought before and, with some advisors, I'm sure he'd be fine. But you're right, the Red persona is the tricky part."
"Okay." Niku said. She then put a little more of the liquid on Keth's lips. The drops rolled into his mouth and kept him asleep.
"He'll be so pissed. This news alone might make him snap." Ninette said. She noticed that Rhom had moved away, so she decided to go softer and let her charms loose.
Finzdeld began to remove his armor, then brought the blanket over him. Despite the magic Niku used, Finzdeld was still wary of waking the demon up.
"He's still under Finzdeld's command," Rhom replied. He felt it. She had seen his displeasure and had begun to charm him. He closed his eyes and sighed, taking it all in and letting it wash over him like a warm, soothing oil. He looked into her eyes, "I love you so much."