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Its a shame it had to come to this.

As I hold the kopesh against the merchants neck, I attempted to give him the coldest stare I could muster.

All he could really see was my eyes, so if I got away, I could lay low and sell it off to get enough food to last me awhile.

Of course, I couldn't speak, but I made it abundantly clear what I wanted.

I really wish there was a way to rob water merchants, but when you try to get a haul decent enough, you won't be able to make it to hiding before you find a spear in your back.

As I grunted to get him to hand over the jewelry in the box, he shakily moved it across the table.

Picking it up, I waved my kopesh towards anyone who tried to stop me.

Of course, there had to be someone who had to play hero...

Piece of shit probably just wanted a reward and fame...

While I could understand the reward, the fame I could definitely do without.

Notoriety just came with what I needed to do. But if I could get rid of it, I definitely would.

Either way, he didn't make it far due to a loss of momentum.

Barging out of the shop, I took a left and went along my planned route of escape.

As I was going between houses and past stands, I could tell I was being chased.

Not looking back I kept my route, making a few new turns here and there, but overall I knew where I was going.

Or at least I hoped I was.

The faster I get home without people on my tail, the better.

Luck seemed to be on my side, as I managed to lose whoever was chasing me when I crossed the gate separating the middle district from the slums. It took the price in the form of a few knocked over stands and losing the two guards at the middle gate, but I managed to lose them.

Tucking the box in my robe, I sheathed my kopesh and made my way back home.

I took the extra long way just in case, because while I was prepared for people chasing me, I didn't think they would get that far before either giving up or losing me.

I never shook the feeling of someone watching me. No matter how hard I looked, there didn't seem to be anyone.

Either way, when I started to notice the change in scenery, transitioning from moderate housing, to the slums.

I passed by a green Naga dressed in a way that gave me an idea of what she was.

It wasn't until she stopped me and said what she did that confirmed it.

"Hey, you looking for some company?~" She cooed.

I simply shook my head and gave a small bow, and kept moving.

Sheesh, it was almost like she could smell the valuables on me.

Most of those who worked at the docks made the slums their home. The population of kobold and Naga slightly outnumbering humans, while the middle and upper class districts housed a bit more humans and less kobolds and Nagas, as well as the jackals.

When I made it home, I took a few looks around before entering, and locking the door behind me.

Taking out the box I opened it and looked over what I had acquired.

Three necklaces made of gold and onyx. Five rings, three silver, two gold and three bracelets, all gold.

Going to need to take this box and put it where I planned to.

If that doesn't work out...I don't know.

Guards will no doubt be searching through the slums, so I had to act quickly.

Changing my clothing, and hiding the stuff I had on before I put the box inside my new robes before walking out of my house and going all the way out to where I would hide the contraband.

Deciding to not hide my face was a double edged sword, so to speak. Sure it made me more hidden with the new clothing, but if guards caught me then they would know my face, which is something I had to avoid like the plague.

Thankfully on the way there I wasn't confronted by any guards, I guess the ones I ran into hadn't heard of the news yet.

Taking a boat across the river, I made my way to the abandoned farmhouse and buried the jewels near a tree north of the farms house.

When I was sure I made it look like I was never here, I made my way back.

However, in spite of all that seemed to be going too well, I froze in place as I spotted guards at my house with the door busted open.

What made my blood run cold despite the hot weather, was when I saw a jackal guard came out holding the clothes I just had on.

Understandably, residents were in their homes, scared. I too sharing fear, but for a different reason.

I didn't really know many people here, the main person I knew being the guy I "sell" stuff to.

This however is going to make things very difficult. Sure I got away with the valuables, but I lost my home and possibly the guy I was going to sell them to, in the process.

Getting out of there, I made my way to find an abandoned house to sleep in.

Finding one that was completely empty was out of the question. So, the best I could do was go back to the abandonned farm.

When I got there, I checked on my undisturbed haul before going into the house itself.

I was surprised at how much stuff was left behind. Though it was mostly empty, I could see usable pots.

Now I just needed flint and wood and I can, hopefully get water from the river.

...

I realized that I had left my coin purse in the house...

Fuck...

I kept it hidden, very hidden, even more hidden than I hid those clothes, but I don't think the guards would leave until they turned my place upside down.

Which meant I had to sell some of the jewelry much sooner than I had originally meant.

...

Damnit.

I'll figure it out in the morning...

As I gather the things to make what almost looked like a bed, I lay down and slept as best I could through the night.

[The next day]

Waking up. I slowly get up and rub my eyes.

Strapping on my sword I walk out of the house and was greeted by the scorching sun.

Deciding I wasn't really ready I retreated back into the house and thought of a way I could get money from my haul without looking too suspicious.

While my buyer didn't ask too many questions, if he heard of the robbery, the best case he would turn it down since it would be too hot.

And that was the BEST case.

I don't know much about him personally, but he seemed like the type that would do anything shady for money.

Not much better than me, but he seemed like the kind of person who would swim in his own money, if he had that much.

Hmmm...

After thinking, I would need at least a week, maybe more before I could sell it to him...

Despite all my gut instincts telling me no, I had to do it.

I had to go back to see if the money I had was still there.

Based on when I had last eaten, I could get through if I went on water. It wouldn't be pleasant, but I had no choice.

But I needed flint, and that costed money.

And I am not going to steal, with the people certainly being on edge by now.

Taking off my weapon, I walked out into the bright morning once again, and walked down to where I had left the boat.

Rowing to the other side of the river, I walked down the streets of the slums and peered around the corner to see my house and the area around it devoid of any guards.

There was no one actually, which was concerning.

Making my way into the house, I could already see signs of it being looted, either by the guards, or by my the people who lived here.

That wasn't what made me pause however.

I heard sounds of an object being moved to the side.

Walking and taking a peek around the corner, I could see someone, a kobold, brown scales, emerald green eyes, wearing some kind of leather attire searching where I kept my money.

After watching them rummage around, I heard a gasp as she took out the money I had stashed away.

Normally I would have found her expression humorous, however given the circumstances, I didn't find any of it humorous.

I didn't bring my weapon, still I was twice her size in height, but if she had any weapons, then things would be harder.

I wasn't about to let her take my stuff though.

So, covering my face with the cloth of my headwear, I started sneaking as best I could up to her, I got myself ready to put her in a choke hold.

This failed miserably as she heard me and brandished a knife.

Stopping I listened to her demand who I was and why I was here.

I answered, trying my best to mask my voice.

"None of your business', all you need to know is I need that bag of money."

"No way! I found it first scavenger." She stuck her tongue out at me.

Being forceful won't do me any good, so I went the diplomatic route.

"Look, I just need enough to buy a good piece of flint, you can keep the rest."

"And what makes you think I'm open to negotiations? I don't know you. Now step aside." She demanded.

"Your from the slums right? You know what some have to do just to make it, c'mon, your making a lot from that alone, a few pieces of copper won't-"

"Don't try to manipulate me." She smirked.

Honestly that reaction wasn't what I expected, I expected a scowl.

"Besides, didn't you make enough from the stunt you pulled on that merchant?"

How did she-

"Oh yeah, I know alll about that. Honestly pretty nice work, he had it coming, makes enough as it is."

So that's why I felt like I was being watched...

"So if you don't want me to turn you in...step, aside." She flicked the knife a few times to the side, motioning me to move.

"And what would they say to someone looting currency from a house."

"An abandoned house." She corrected me.

"Yeah, but still, that's currency they could be putting to "Good use" as they sometimes say." I said.

"Its my word against yours honey~" She smiled.

"What will a few copper pieces do to you, I'm letting you keep the rest, that's like 99 percent of the profit your making."

"Did you let that merchant keep 99 percent?" Her smile disappeared.

"You said he had it coming and he made enough, why should you care?"

"Ugh, I've had enough, move or el-" She was cut off by being frozen in place.

She slowly lifted her knife as if she was going to throw it.

I slowly raised my hands.

"Hey hey, woah, there's no need." I didn't finish my sentence.

Without hesitation she threw the knife, I did my best to dodge out of the way, but before I could retaliate, I heard the sound of someone hitting the floor just after I landed on the floor. This followed by the sound of a male voice groaning in pain as he pulled the knife out of him.

The female kobold rushed forward and drew another blade, soon after I could hear the sounds of blades clashing.

Turning and getting up I could see another kobold, male, green scales fighting with the female.

Taking notice of the coin purse she dropped I took it and was about to make a break for it, but something stopped me.

Was I really going to leave her to die?

What was I thinking, she'll be fine.

As I was about to make a break for it, I heard the sounds of blade going through flesh and the sounds of her response to it.

This caused me to turn around and look at what was happening.

The male pierced her flesh on her arm pit.

Still though, she wasn't giving up that easily, still parrying his attacks.

Putting the sack down I searched for a piece of what was left of my furniture and stalked my way up to the male.

Waiting at just the right opportunity, I struck him on the head.

This wasn't what caused him to collapse though, it was the females blade that did it.

As she looked at the one she just killed, she seemed to be in shock.

To an extent I was too.

Our moment of silence was broke when I heard sounds from outside.

Walking over and getting something to cover her face with I threw it on her head which snapper her out of her terrified daze.

"Hey- what- mrmph-!" She pulled the cloth off her head.

I picked up the money and told her.

"Cover your face, you don't want witnesses, or worse, the guard to see who you are."

She scoffed.

"Its not like I don't know how-" She paused, realizing what she almost revealed.

"Look your past is none of my business', however we need to get out of here."

"What's this we crap?"

"Well if you got a place to lay low then don't let me keep you." I said.

"Ohhh no, give me the bag! I didn't go though all this shit to wind up empty handed!" She demanded.

"No. It was mine to begin with." I said.

"Finders keepers."

She attempted to try to grab the bag, but due to her being too short she was unable to.

"Give me- give, ughh.." She groaned.

The noises were getting louder, there must have been guards.

I just started to make my way out of there, only this time with a new companion following me.

I couldn't really go back to the farm with her in tow, as long as there wasn't any-

"Halt!" A human guard shouted.

Yep...should have known...

I started to run, as did my new companion.

Though, I noticed she wasn't keeping up, most likely due to her shorter legs.

And the guard was gaining on us.

If I carried her, then I would be slowed down, but if I didn't do something, then she would get caught.

The guard was armed with a spear, but I imagined he had a sword as a backup just in case.

I remember there being pots near the docks, we just need to-

I heard the sound of metal clanking against metal.

Looking behind me I could see that shorty was parrying the guards attempts to impale her with his spear as they ran.

I had to act, if we didn't get this guard off our, tails then we wouldn't make it.

And I don't know about you, but I would rather not deal with the queens wrath. Some of the executions...

I can't think about that now, focus.

Anything that could be used as a weapon simply wasn't there, I was starting to lose any hope I had left.

That was until I heard the sound of a male voice groaning in pain.

As I looked back I could see shorty sheathe her weapon and the guard holding his groin.

Below the belt huh? Well whatever works.

I made my way to the docks, shorty in tow.

We found a secluded spot away from most of the workers.

I "borrowed" some robes that were just lying around, judging from the smell I guess they were changed out from some pretty sweaty individuals.

There was none that would really fit shorty, but she was just going to have to make due.

As I came back with the new clothing I said.

"Put these on, we need a new mask."

She just held her nose.

"You think I'm going to smell like a sweaty dock worker? No way." She said, turning her nose.

"Look princess, its either we blend in, or get caught, that guard knows what clothing we had on." I explained.

"I can take it from here, I'll leave, as soon as you give me the money." She said, stretching her hand out.

"No, I need this."

"YOU need it?! What about the-" She didn't finish as I covered her mouth and spoke to her.

"Look, I'll give you half."

She shook her head at that.

I just sighed and removed my hand.

"No, your stuck with me, I'll let you keep the money, but in return you got to pay it off to me."

26 silver and ten copper wouldn't even be close to how much I can make from my haul.

And I was too tired to argue with her.

"Fine."

I went off somewhere to change, and when I came back I saw shorty, and honestly? It was amusing.

She looked like one of those short hermits with robes that didn't fit her.

"Well, at least you could pass off as a blind hermit." I mused.

"Shut up, you keep making remarks you won't be allowed to stay."

"Stay where?"

"My place, where else do you think? We can't stay at your place since your now a bum."

"What? No no, you don't want me staying at your house, we just met not that long ago. You go to your house, I'll find somewhere-" I continued but she cut me off.

"No, your staying at my place so that I can keep an eye on you, there's nothing of value in there anyway."

I was shocked, why was she so trustworthy all of the sudden?

Well she did say there was nothing of real value in her house anyway, most likely she hid her valuable somewhere else, or she really was desperate for money.

Plus I don't think she would take no for an answer.

I think this is just a way for her to easily steal the money for herself and kick me out, but still, she would reveal her home to me.

Something reeked, and I wasn't talking about the stench from our robes...

"Fine. But before we head out I think it would be best to-"

"Wait until dark? Yeah, I was going to suggest that." She smirked.

"Mhm.."

"I was!"

"I believe you." I lied.

"Skilled thieves think alike I see." She said.

"I'm not- well ok I am a thief, but not a skilled one."

"Oh c'mon, how many common thieves can do you you did?" She asked.

"We can continue this later." I said as I watched a worker pass us.

It took two hours or so, but when it was time I took the robes I had on and hid them under the new smelly ones as I followed her.

To my surprise, her home wasn't in the slums...ok it was still the slums, but not like where I was, it was sort of on the "border" where the nicer middle section houses were. Only a short walk from her place and I could see one of the gates that separated districts.

It was also close to one of two brothels in the city, but I just chalked it up to coincidence.

We were supposed to be in doors, because in the middle and outer districts had to be indoors at a certain time.

As we waited for a guard to pass with his torch, we snuck into her house. She opened the door, and I closed it.

Feeling for the lock, I latched it and turned around.

I don't know where she went but I could hear the sounds of flint scrapping against something before a fire lit up and I could see.

At the center I could see a pit where the fire was, stone floors and stairs. A door to the left of the fire pit and one closer to the back corner.

"Nice place."

"Don't get used to it, once your debt it paid, we never knew each other." She said as she took off her face covering.

I just sat down on the other side of the fire pit and stared at it.

After while she spoke again.

"Just so were clear, if you reveal anything, anything. Rat me out to the guard, your done." Her expression was serious.

I just looked at her and nodded before saying.

"Look, I'll admit your...something, but I'm not going to rat you out, you gave me shelter, and I appreciate it. Like I said, your past is none of my business'."

She seemed to relax a tiny bit after I said that.

"Let me see your face." She said.

I removed the cover to reveal my face.

"The whole thing, remove it." She demanded. Her green eyes having an intensity I never saw before.

I took off the headwear, and she stared at me for a few seconds before saying.

"Hm, looked different than I imagined."

"Hm..." I mumbled.

Silence reined supreme for the longest time before she lead me to the place I would be sleeping, the room to my left from where I sat down.

Setting down everything I heard her close the door.

I expected the money to be gone in the morning, but I didn't care at this point. If the worse happens, I could just sell the haul for what I could.

Sure it would be at a decreased price most likely, but it was better than nothing.

Letting my thoughts put me to sleep I closed my eyes and rested better than I had before.

[The next morning]

I could feel someone poking me awake as I slowly opened my eyes.

Seeing her in a new set of robes that actually fit her I slowly got up as she started to chirp.

"Good, your awake, take the money and get us some food and water."

"Ok princess, just give me a minute..." I rubbed my eyes.

"Your princess demands you get subsistence now." She crossed her arms.

Grunting I got up and attempted to put the headwear on but she stopped me.

"No, put on the robes you had on before, I got rid of those smelly rags you gave me, I don't need you stinking up my house more than you already have."

"I'll get clean clothes while I'm out."

"And spend more of my money? No, just steal some."

"I'm not going to risk it." I said.

"Hmph, and I thought you were a master thief."

"What gave you that idea?"

"Could a common crook steal from a jewelry merchant?" She asked.

"That was luck."

"Yeah right, you have more skill than you let on."

Not knowing what she meant I just put on the headwear and took out enough money to buy food, water and new clothes.

I was stopped before I reached the door.

"Wait, hold on...I need to ask you something."

Turning to face her, she asked a question that I knew was coming up.

"What is your name?"

After I told her my name, she introduced herself as Vres.

"Well, its nice to know your name, now I have to go get the supplies." I said before exiting her house.

Hopefully this will be the last clothing I buy for awhile...

I did my best to look like I was just an average person, but I guess I wasn't as convincing as I let on because when a human guard passed me he gave me a weird look.

I got to say, I'm glad no jackal guards usually patrolled the outer and middle section of the city, with their senses they would be able to track me down and bring me in to face the queens wrath.

And that was if I was lucky.

Certain thoughts begun to run through my mind, but I pushed them back, I could ponder on them later.

When I went back to Vres' home, I knocked on the door.

"Who is it?" She said from the other side of the door.

"Its, me." I answered.

"Sorry, I'm too distracted by this large amount of money, come back later."

"Open the door...Food and water is here..."

She unlocked the door and opened it a bit.

"Oh, just leave it on the door step."

I just stared at her.

She then chuckled before moving to the side to let me in.

Stepping inside I set down the supplies before turning to her.

"Anything else?"

"Hmm.." She pondered for a moment before answering.

"Go get me some jewelry."

"Funny."

"I'm serious."

"Not happening." I said.

"Oh c'mon...I would owe you a BIG favor~" She said suggestively.

"I don't know what types your used to dealing with, but that won't work on me." I said.

She just huffed.

"Your no fun."

"We just met last night." I explained.

"Has that ever stopped people from having fun?"

I don't know what caused such a mood switch, but I didn't let it get to me.

"I only would do that with someone I'm interested in."

She gave me a look like she was offended.

"How rude! Are you saying I'm not attractive?"

"Not just looks that matter, character also plays a part in it."

"What are you saying." She narrowed her eyes.

I just looked at her.

"ARE YOU SAYING I HAVE A BAD CHARACTER?!" She shouted.

"No...you let me stay with you so that's tells me your not just about money...even if I have to pay you back..."

"Yeah, well I'm starting to think I let in an asshole." She stuck her tongue at me.

"Asshole, or perhaps just honest." I said.

She laughed at that.

"An honest thief? Oh the irony."

"Hm, just honest with another thief."

"Careful what you reveal to a thief, it might get you later down the road..." She stared at me.

"Meaning?" I looked at her.

Without warning she tackled me and sat on my stomach.

"I can bring everything down, you could lose everything with no hope of recovery." Her face hovered just above mine.

Giving up on going back and forth I just exhaled through my nose.

"Listen, I believe you, I'd rather there be no problems. You said it yourself last night once the debt is paid we wouldn't associate with each other."

She just stared into my eyes.

During this time, they seemed to soften.

"Hm, well at least you think your not invincible, I guess honesty is a good thing to have, as long as your careful with who you trust. You were honest with me, so does that mean you trust me?"

"To an extent. But not completely." I answered.

She said nothing as she got off me.

Sitting up I ate some bread and drank some water before walking to the entrance of Vres' home.

"Where you going?" She asked.

"Just to walk."

She didn't say anything as I left.

I went to get my kopesh from the farm and checked to see if the earth by the tree was disturbed, which it wasn't thankfully.

Going back to the docks I hid the kopesh as best I could under my robes.

At a certain point I felt like I was being stalked.

I wonder by who...

When I went down a few roads, between houses, I realized that it wasn't Vres...

But one of those Jackal guards.

As soon as I saw the black fur in the unique armor they possess, I knew something was up.

And I think they definitely were targeting me.

Since it was at a distance, and only a small glimpse I couldn't see any specific features like eye color.

I was so screwed, and I think Vres was too...I don't know if they sniffed her scent on me.

I could make up something, like me and her got a thing going or something.

As I kept seeing glimpses of the guard, I couldn't tell if there were multiple ones or if it was just the same one.

Neither guesses yielded much comfort.

I must have took a bad turn, because I found myself cornered.

When I went to take another route I could see the guard right around the corner, but she caught me before I could run off.

I was helpless, running away was the only chance I had, they outmatched me in almost every aspect.

Before anything could happen, the sound of her speaking washed away all fears.

"Woah, hey its alright, I'm not going to hurt you-" She said my name.

I recognized that voice.

"Khepri? Is that you?"

She released her grip on me as I looked up at her. She stood at least a foot taller than me.

"Wow, you've gotten tall. Well, taller." I said.

"Mhm, thanks for noticing." She smiled.

"How have you been? The guard life treating you well?" I asked.

"Yeah, it hasn't been easy, but you know. I count my blessings. What about you? How's things going?" She asked.

You know...I hate to lie to her, but I couldn't just tell her I stole every now and again, so I went with the partial truth.

"I uh, work at the docks."

Her ears went back.

"Oh...then...well at least your not...uh...homeless?" She said.

"Its...well not really the best thing, but still, I uh...count what I have, and all that." I said.

She started to sniff but didn't plant her nose right near the source.

"M-may I?" She asked.

"Oh, yeah of course, go ahead."

She lowered herself and sniffed the area Vres was on. When she was done she stood straight up and said.

"Did someone assault you?" She asked, her demeanor turning from friendly to serious.

"No no...it wasn't assault. Just didn't look where I was going and...well they landed on top of me. No harm done really." I said.

"Hm...well alright." She said.

I could tell she didn't believe me but didn't say anything out of politeness.

"Hey, I know of this good place in the middle district we can go and catch up...if you want to that is." She offered.

"Yeah, sounds great."

I wasn't worried about getting back to Vres too late, middle and lower had to get indoors for curfew at a certain time.

I think she knew that, I had awhile before curfew started, I could just make up something.

Plus, I was too curious about Khepri's life, we were good friends growing up.

As she lead me to the suggested place, I took notice at some of the looks I was getting from some of the people in the slums.

There was even one, a male Naga who wanted to give her a piece of his mind.

The further we got to one of the gates, the more people looked like they wanted to jump her.

Whether that was for her golden colored attire, or because they had a beef with the upper class.

Or they thought I was being taken in for questioning.

Khepri just kept her composure with the steel like demeanor that the protector of the elite had to carry with them.

I wonder why she came alone? Jackal guards usually came in groups if they had to come to the slums.

Well either way, nothing happened thankfully, and when we passed the open gate all tension seemed to stay behind.

I had to fight the urge to cover my face, whenever I find myself here I always cover my face before I pass the gate.

Just have to make it through, besides, its for Khepri. I could suffer through paranoia for her.

When we made it to the place we sat down and she ordered drinks for us and we sat in the corner.

I got to admit, I was nervous if Vres found out...I think I would have to wash the scents off of me before I went back just to be safe.

"So...tell me what's been happening." I said.

For the next new hours, we discussed what's been happening with our lives.

I talked about my work at the docks, but more importantly, I got to hear about what her life consisted of, or at least what she felt comfortable to share.

The last time I spoke with her, her family made her join the jackal guard, since apparently it was in the family tradition.

I got to admit, the stories she shared were interesting to say the least, especially the stories regarding the upper district.

Some of the shit that the wealthy do...it was alien to me.

Ok, it wasn't...a lot I could understand...I guess it was just the fact that they COULD do it.

Other than the crap she had to deal with, between male guards hitting on her...nobles trying to seduce her, she seemed to take pride in protecting the innocent.

While I disagreed with the innocent aspect, I was glad she was happy...and I was admittedly concerned for her safety.

She was trained for it though...but still, that didn't stop me from worrying.

When I brought up the safety thing, she just giggled.

"Oh, its sweet that your worried, but I can handle myself, don't you worry." She smiled at me.

"Hm..." I took a sip from my drink.

"Hm, seems you haven't changed completely." She took a sip before licking her lips.

"I don't think I trust that look she was giving me." I mused internally.

I didn't really mind, she wouldn't really try anything, she was more reserved and knew what was appropriate to say and not say.

Unlike a certain someone I met not long ago...

Before out conversation could continue, there was the sound of a rowdy bunch entering the bar.

We paid them no mind...just a group of guys looking to drink...hopefully.

Khepri moved closer to me...for some reason before drinking from her cup.

My kopesh was on the opposite side of her, so as long as she didn't...

She did...

She wrapped her arm around me.

"Khepri, what."

"Shh, just play along." She instructed.

Realizing why she was doing this became apparent, as I heard one of the guys, who apparently were off duty guards, call Khepri's name.

And their attention was unwanted by her.

"Hey, Slan." Khepri said, her ears going back.

It didn't take long before he got to the point.

When he proposed something that was...well forward, Khepri squeezed me as if saying to play along.

"Hey...friend...in case you haven't figured it out...she's taken, try looking elsewhere." I said before taking a sip of my drink.

"Never seen you here before, or anywhere in the middle district, wait...no...don't tell me." Slan said before he erupted into laughter.

"Your from the slums, why would she be interested in a bum like you!" Slan said, his goons following in laughing.

"None of your business'." I said.

His demeanor changed.

"Wait...you aren't using her as a means to extort her...if so your one sick moth-"

"You have no proof of that, I've known her since child hood. I would never use her like that." I explained, trying to sound as angry without shouting.

This seemed to stop him from sniffing the trail further.

And after a few more words were said, they left the bar.

After they had left, Khepri still kept her arm around me.

"Didn't know I was a comfortable arm rest." I said, trying to humor her.

She just pulled away her arm.

"Oh, sorry about that."

"Its alright." I said.

"What I want to know is..." She started.

Crap.

"Why are you concealing a weapon?" She whispered.

"When you live in the slums, you got to protect yourself." I explained calmly.

It technically wasn't illegal to own a weapon, but concealing it was illegal.

"Why? Gonna take me in?" I asked.

"No, because were friends I'll let it slide, but you got to stop doing shady stuff like that, I'd hate to see you in jail, or worse.." She explained.

Oh Khepri...if you only knew...

It pained me that I was lying to her...out of the few people I knew, losing her would be the most painful.

"I appreciate the concern." I said.

When we were finished, we bid farewell and went our separate ways.

Before I went back to the place I knew, I made a stop to a certain place.

I stopped in front of the house that lay near one of the high gates.

Currently there were others living there, so I didn't make it apparent I was looking at the house, just taking glances every now and again.

I had to get back before Vres started to get suspicious.

Walking through the middle district, I ignored the merchants calling me and so many others over to barter.

I took a quick dip in the water at the docks and waited for me to dry before I went to Vres' home.

Knocking at the door, but she didn't answer.

Instead of her front door, she came up from behind me and surprised me with a slap near my ass.

"Where have you been? That must have been one hell of a walk?"

"Yep, it was."

She gasped before saying.

"Did you se-" I covered her mouth and in one swift motion opened the door into her house.

Locking the door behind me, I got a mouthful from her.

"You asshole! At least warn me before-"

I let her go on and on before speaking.

"You really want to reveal out in the open about the jewels?"

"OH yeah! You must have sold them by now? Where's the shinnies?" She asked.

Shinnies, cute.

"I need more time, there still too hot."

She groaned.

"If your such a wuss I'll sell them myself."

"Nope, I'm doing it."

She sat on the floor and crossed her arms, making the most over dramatic pout.

"What is it with you and money?"

"What's there NOT to like? You can do anything with it, buy stuff, buy people, buy people for fun."

"Didn't figure you for the freaky type." I said.

She got up and walked over.

"If your a good boy, I might let you watch~" She said suggestively.

"No thanks." I said.

"Oh admit it...that idea turns you on, doesn't it?"

"No it doesn't"

"What does then?" She asked.

"None of your business'."

"Oh c'mon, how else am I supposed to mess with you?" She asked.

"That's the fun part, you don't get to." Was all I said before going to the room I slept in.

Taking good measure, I even blocked the door with a chair in the room, much to the frustration of Vres.

At this point I might as well just ask to live with Khepri, though she would get suspicious.

Which meant I was stuck with Vres for the time being.

As strange as it sounds, it wasn't too bad putting up with her antics.

After Vres gave up, I drifted off to sleep.

[A few months later]

Well, this isn't how I planned to wake up.

I'm going to have to start blocking the door again...

What was worse is she only had pants and a leather covering on to cover her chest.

Seeing is how I was already off to a great start today, I checked to see if the bag was still in its place, to which it was, surprisingly.

Although it was less than when I brought it to her house, thanks to my work at the docks and Vres'...um, intuition, we managed to add coins to the bag.

I've checked on the haul a few times a week, and it was still there.

Today is the day I start selling it.

"Mmmm..." Vres hummed, raising her chest in the air and stretching her back.

"Morning..." She said, lying on her side to look at me.

"Vres, why don't you sleep in your own bed?"

"Cause its more fun sleeping with you~"

Yep, definitely going to start barring the door again.

I know she was doing this to mess with me, but ever since she's been sneaking into my room to sleep next to me, I think there's something else going on.

I didn't really bother arguing with her about it though, if there's anything I learned these past weeks, is if she's going to do something, she'll do it.

"Well, don't get too comfortable, I'm going to start selling the haul, which means our time is starting to come to an end, like we agreed."

"Oh, right.." She said before sitting up.

"What will you do after you make your money?" She asked.

I didn't answer.

But she didn't give up.

"C'mon, we've been living together for a few months, I changed my mind, I'm curious." She stood up from the cot.

"Live off the haul before going back to my life before all this."

"Working at the docks for shit pay and barely enough to scrape by?" She added.

I still said nothing.

"You would need a place to stay, I don't mind letting you stay." She offered.

"We'll see." Was all I said before exiting the house.

I've learned much from Khepri, turns out the only two people whom she really cared for, her parents, died a few years back.

Perhaps that is why she sought me out, I've seen a few members of her family other than her parents, but that was it.

Guess that's one more thing we have in common, no known family left.

I tried to keep her spirits up regarding family, I said there was always the chance that there was others in other settlements.

Though the chance of actually meeting and knowing its your family is rare, if not next to impossible.

Vres hasn't caught on yet, but I have been trying to figure out a way to explain. Because if I do continue to live with her or I run into her while with Khepri, or worse, Khepri and I catch her in the middle of one of her schemes, it will all go to hell.

I was more worried about Khepri's reaction than Vres', sure she doesn't like guards, but I don't know what Khepri will think of me if she knew the company I kept.

Guess it all boiled down to how it would effect me...

Selfish...guess that's just part of being human.

It also didn't help that both Khepri AND Vres...ok well maybe not Vres, but Khepri defiantly is showing signs of interest.

If something really was happening between me and Vres, then it would just add more insult to injury in the event something does happen.

So for the most part, things have been going alright, things, for me at least are quiet enough.

However, there is one thing...

That green Naga I saw when I was moving the haul over to the spot, I've been seeing her more and more.

Something about her seemed off, the more I looked at her, the more I realized that she was too well dressed for the slums, she looked more like someone who would linger in the middle, or ever upper district.

And I've seen some of the women in the upper district through the gates, and she closely matches the "level" that those women had. If you get what I mean.

And if that wasn't enough, she keeps using the same, or very similar lines EVERY TIME.

And lately, she's been showing up more and more.

I even asked if she recognized me, to which she always said she didn't.

That didn't sit right with me.

One last thing, whenever I would see her, no other people seemed to be around, which freaked me out to no end when I realized it.

Which lead me to the two questions, who was she working for, and why were they targeting me?

Was it because of the jewels I stole?

That merchant lived in the middle district, close to the slums, so if it was royal jewelry, then it wouldn't be there.

I even found myself thinking she was some kind of poltergeist of some dead sex worker, as ridiculous as that sounds.

It just screamed trap.

And currently, I see her again, but this time she had a pipe and was smoking something.

Guess she was stepping up her game.

I was prepared to just walk past her and ignore her invitation, however...

I was sick of waiting.

I've had enough.

Walking up to her, she tried her usual line but I interrupted her.

"Enough of this, who are you and what do you want with me?" I demanded.

She inhaled whatever she was smoking and exhaled.

"Never seen you before." She responded.

"That's what you said last time a few days ago."

My face was uncovered the last few times I saw her, so she had to know. She was pretending to be ignorant.

"Hm, sorry, not good with faces, not my job to remember them." She smirked.

Then what was your real job.

"I don't know who your working for, but I didn't do anything."

"Sorry, don't know what your talking about, I just get paid to give people memories they don't forget." She said.

"This neighborhood doesn't seem like your style." I said.

"I can go wherever I want, is it so wrong to want to make less fortunate people happy?" She asked.

"Well, I don't see anyone-" I didn't finish the sentence as I was hit over the head with something.

As I fell to the ground, I could see the black fur and bronze armor on their legs. Jackal guards.

So she was from the upper district.

Before I was kicked in the face and blacked out, she stood over me and said.

"Sorry, nothing personal."

For the longest time, I was unconscious. Or it might have been a short time, I don't know.

When I came to I found myself tied down to a bed, couldn't see anything because it was too dark.

After waiting long enough, not that I had a choice, I could see torchlight, or a square outline of light, which meant the door was there.

When it opened a human in extravagant clothing flanked by two jackal guards entered.

The jackal guards used the torches to light up some basins in the corners of the rooms to make seeing easier.

The man in the fancy clothing just stood beside the bed I was in, examining me.

Just when I thought he wouldn't say anything, he spoke.

"I'll assume you don't know why your here." He said, his age being present in his voice.

I said nothing in response.

"Well allow me to tell you, you stole from one of my sons." He revealed who he was.

Great...Should have know he was the son of an important person..

But why did his son live so close to the slums in the first place.

Well I got the answer.

"I'll tell you right now, I personally don't care that you stole from him, I always hated him, he isn't the topic of why your here, your here to learn your lesson, stealing from one of my sons is like stealing from me, as much of a disgrace as he is, he is still part of my family, you stole from my family, so you'll tell me where the jewels are, and then, I will make an example of you and everyone close to you." He explained/threatened.

"I don't know where they are...I sold them already." I lied.

"Then where is the money?"

"I used it to survive." I continued the façade.

"Hm, then if I kill you now it will save you some misery in the future." He said before looking at one of his guards.

Keeping as cool as I could, I said in my best neutral tone I could muster.

"I would rather not die." I said.

"Well you should have thought of that before you decided to steal from me."

"How was I supposed to know?"

"Silence you little maggot." One of the jackal guards came up and delivered one hard punch to my stomach.

Trying to hold in my groan of pain didn't work.

"We provide jobs for pieces of dung like you, and what do you repay us with? Crime. Such ungrateful little maggots." The man said.

"I'm also a fan of not going hungry." I said, which was met with another blow to the stomach.

He said nothing as he and his guards left.

As I lay there, the pain from the blows to my stomach slowly fading, I couldn't help of thinking of ways I can get out of this.

Even if I escape from wherever I was, I was definitely in the upper district, or in the middle of nowhere.

Fuck...I'm going to die...if I was lucky it will be quick...

[Khepri POV: A few days later]

As I sit there, waiting for him, I can't help but feel like something is up.

He's never late.

Something isn't right.

Did he get mugged?

Did he get killed?

No, that's nonsense, he's smart enough to know the signs he's in trouble.

So why?

Maybe he's grown tired of seeing me?

He seemed...well its hard to tell what he's thinking or feeling.

But if he didn't want to see me he would have said something.

As I got up and paid for my drink I went and headed out to the outer district.

I should start with the guards at the gate.

When I went through the gate closes to the bar we usually met up at, I approached one of the guards.

He tensed up when I approached.

"At ease soldier, I'm just looking for someone."

"Y-yes ma'am, I will tell you what I can." He responded.

As I explained the description of him, he said this.

"Well, There is only one house where I know a human and a kobold take up residents."

He gave me instructions to said house.

When I got there, I knocked on the door, and a brown scaled kobold with green eyes answered.

But as soon as she saw me she was immediately defensive.

I guess being a jackal guard can have its disadvantages.

"Hello, I'm-"

"I already paid my taxes, so you ain't got nothing on me!" She said this before slamming the door shut.

"I'm here about a missing person." I quickly said before she could retreat further into her home.

"Well I don't know anything about a missing person, people go missing here all the time." She explained.

"Yes but I've been told you have been housing a certain someone I'm looking for."

"I-I don't know who your talking about."

"A guard told me different, he's seen him entering this residence multiple times."

She said nothing.

"Please, his life might be in danger."

After a good few minutes, she opened the door again.

She looked around, checking before moving out of the way to allow me inside.

I ducked before entering, she closed the door and said.

"Where is he?" She asked, almost with threatening tone to it.

"That's what I'm trying to figure out." I explained.

"Why does a jackal guard care what happened to a slum dweller?"

"I knew...know him, I'm concerned for his safety." I explained.

"Ok, he has been missing for a few days, I tried to find him but turned up empty." She explained.

The various scents coming from her and her house proved that he did stay here, and what made me confused is that her scent....

Matched what I smelled when he explained that someone "fell" on him by accident...

No, I can't think that now, I'll figure that out later.

"Hey! I'm speaking, did you even hear a word I said? With ears like those you think-" She rambled.

"Ma'am, please, I just need any lead, perhaps I could follow his scent. Where did he stay?"

"Why should I-"

"Because, without your cooperation I can't get a lead to make sure he's safe."

She huffed.

"Fine, but I get to come along with you, I have a right to know if he's safe as well." She said.

"Very well." I agreed.

I watched her open a door to my right, which lead to a room with a chair and a single bed.

Entering the room I went to the where the scent was most potent, the bed.

As I smelled I noticed traces of the kobolds scent...

Picking up any other scents I found what I needed, exiting the kobolds house I followed the trail, with her following me.

What he sees in her I don't know...her demeanor seemed childish, inappropriate even...

We got to a section of the slums that didn't house many residents, and that's where the trail went cold.

"Trail's gone cold..."I mumbled to myself.

"So do you talk to yourself like a weirdo a lot or?" She asked.

Ignoring her comment I looked around.

Someone had to of saw something.

"We need to question if anyone saw something."

"There's no one here though..."

"No, I smell at least three residents here." I explained.

Walking up to one of the houses I was stopped by the kobold.

"You really think there going to trust you?" She asked.

"You have a better idea?" I asked.

She smirked and said.

"Just point me to one of the houses."

Although I was concerned to what she was going to do, I looked at one of the houses.

She just nodded before motioning me to hide.

I did so, watching her walk up to a house.

When the resident answered a few words were exchanged.

Then...well...

I never seen someone take off a robe so fast.

It didn't last long before the resident slammed their door shut.

I stared at her awestruck expression.

I walked up to her and could only say.

"Really? That was your plan? Seduction?"

"Hey, at least I'm trying something." She said before putting her clothes back on.

"Well its clear the men here don't respond well to such tactics."

"Oh no, they usually do. I don't know why he didn't fall for it." She scratched her head.

"You didn't do it right that's why." I said.

"But it usually works! The only other guy that I know of that didn't respond to it was-"

Wait, so they weren't together?

Then why were they sleeping together?

I didn't think he was the kind to get with someone for a casual relationship.

I got a lot of questions for him when we find him.

"I got a better idea, we both go, and you explain that were looking for your friend." I suggested.

"Hmm...I like my idea better, but ok, we'll do it your way for now." She said.

Walking to the next house, she knocked on the door before the resident opened the door, and at the sight of me almost closed the door, but to the kobolds credit she stopped the door before saying, in the most concerned voice I've hear her say so far.

"W-wait, please. We need your help, we need to know if you seen-" She explained the situation to the man.

"Why do you need a jackal guard though?" He asked in a timid voice.

"Her nose is vital for tracking him down to make sure he's safe." She said.

The man looked inside his house before looking to his right.

"Ok, look, I don't know much, but he was kidnapped by someone, all I know is that there was this Naga, green scales, beautiful, like someone you would find in the upper district, they conversed about something before I saw a jackal guard run up and knock him out." He explained.

"I- see, thank you so much for your information." The kobold said.

I handed him a silver coin before saying.

"Thank you, you just might have saved a life today."

He took the coin, before looking to me and saying.

"Thank you miss, I hope you find him, good luck to you." He said this before closing his door.

This was worse than I thought, he did something to anger someone in the upper district.

But what? He's a dock worker, he said he didn't commit any crime, other than hiding his weapon.

He lied to me...

Now more than ever I wanted to find him, but how? If he was in the prison, which one was it? The queen wasn't known for keeping people in there long, he could already...

No...

I held my head, realizing that it could already be too late.

"Hey, what's wrong with you?" The kobold asked.

"He could already be..." I couldn't finish the sentence.

She widened her eyes.

"Then we got to go see!" She shouted.

"Its not that simple, if he was in the royal palaces prison then I would have to get permission from my commanding officer, and that takes weeks, by then he would be killed if he wasn't already." I said.

"Then we break in." She said in a lower volume.

I looked at her.

"Your insane, this isn't like some petty crime here in the slums, were talking about the royal palace, no one has attempted to break in there in over 250 years. And they failed." I explained.

"Then you will need inside help." A new voice called out.

The kobold and I turned to see the green Naga the man just explained to us.

The kobold drew a dagger and attempted to rush her.

I stopped her just in time.

"Let go of me! I'll kill her-"

"Wait, lets hear what she has to say.." I said, though I would be lying to say if I didn't want to plunge my sword into her gut as well.

"Fine..." The kobold said.

"What is your name by the way?" I asked her.

"Vres..."

Letting Vres go, I looked to the Naga.

"Speak." I instructed her.

"I'm sure by now you know my role in what happened. I don't think it is right..."

"Yeah, bull shit, your actions say otherwise..." Vres said, anger seething from her voice.

"I couldn't refuse, otherwise I would have lost everything, but I changed my mind, I think it is injustice to what happened to your friend..."

"Is he still alive?" I asked, getting impatient.

"Yes, but he doesn't have much time left, we need to get into the palace, I can get you to him, but getting him out is going to be a problem." The naga explained.

I then recognized who she was, she was the adopted daughter of a human noble, Scylla.

She was, and to some extent still is the talk of the middle and upper district. So if she is caught she definently would crash hard...theres a chance Vres and I would have to leave if we were spotted.

An issue Scylla also knew of.

"If we manage to free him, then he could not stay here, he would need to move to another location." Scylla explained.

"Then I will go with him." Vres said.

"If that is your wish, then I won't stop you." Scylla explained.

That pretty much left me...I don't know if I wanted to risk everything for his sake, sure I...cared about him, but to lose everything? After he lied to me?

"After he lied to me...I don't know if I want to...risk everything, I do wish for him to be safe from harm...but...I don't know if I can make that sacrifice." I explained.

Vres looked at me and said.

"Look, I can understand you not wanting to lose your cushy job, but you knew him before I did, you must know each other well right?" She asked.

I nodded.

"Let me ask you this, are you really happy? Serving the assholes that did this to him in the first place? The ones who are possibly..." She looked at Scylla.

"Are they torturing him?"

Scylla simply nodded.

"See? The ones your protecting are the ones responsible for hurting the ones you care about." Vres said.

I said nothing.

"Yeah, he stole from a merchant that could stand to lose a few pounds, but hey, that's what some people have to do in order to survive."

"There's a difference between surviving and stealing for gain." I explained.

"Yeah, but will he use that to buy shit he doesn't need? No, I never seen him buy anything other than essential stuff. He stole because he wasn't making enough to live off of at the docks." Vres explained.

"You know he's not a bad guy, just someone with an unfortunate circumstances."

"He made his choice...and is paying for it..." I said.

"Really? Does anyone deserve to be TOURTURED for stealing?"

"There's a difference between stealing something like jewelry and food and water, why didn't he take that instead?"

"He's not perfect, yeah he made a mistake, but are you really going to let him die for it?"

Damnit...is she making sense?

"You have family?" Vres asked.

I shook my head.

"Well, why not try to save the last person you care about?" She asked.

...

As much as I didn't want to admit it, she made sense.

I often question myself if I'm really happy doing what I do.

I knew people in the upper district were...strange, and I knew tortured was a thing, but that was reserved for prisoners who committed acts of terrorism, or rape.

Criminals such as thieves or murderers were executed or backhanded.

The whole reason why I ventured out to find him was because I wanted to form a bond with the last person I knew since childhood.

If I agree to help in saving him I risk losing my job, my house and possibly my life.

Even if I managed to flee, starting a life somewhere else isn't really easy, but it is possible.

There's got to be a safe way, If I was to rescue him without putting my identity at risk, I would need to mask my scent and my appearance.

Best case scenario, the nobles question the jackal and kobold population.

Worst case, all three of us would be in the same position he was in.

"We should continue this somewhere more private, we are already risking much just by talking in the open like this. Follow me, I know of a place we can talk more." Scylla said.

"How do we know this isn't some sort of trap?" Vres asked.

"You don't, as little of value it is to you, you just have my word." Scylla said.

As much as I was suspicious of her, It wasn't like I was defenseless, and I'm sure Vres could hold her own.

"Alright, but if you try anything-" I said.

"I understand." Scylla said before turning and slithering to the location.

I was the first to follow, with Vres following suit.

[Protagonist POV: Unknown amount of time later]

Well, I've moved from the bed to a set of chains holding my arms, legs and torso in place.

With only a cloth to cover my unmentionables I was covered in old and fresh wounds from the whips.

They didn't ask questions, just some guy came in, sometimes it was a human, sometimes it was a jackal, and just start going at it.

Haven't given me any water or anything, guess they wanted me to suffer as much as possible.

Found myself blacking out during torture sessions. I first started to prevent myself from blacking out in fear of dying, but then again, if they killed me then it wouldn't be an execution.

I've only saw the old guy twice, he simply watched, and last time I saw him a few of his, I don't know if it was his son and daughter or just his political associates.

I didn't really care, I wanted to either just drop dead or somehow get free.

Currently I was just hanging there, just barely standing, the chains keeping me upright. Mostly upright anyway.

All was mostly quiet, just the occasional cough or sniff from one of the guards outside the chamber.

However, I think something was happening, either a new prisoner or the old man is returning to visit.

I didn't hear his voice, or the pleading of someone new, instead I heard the sounds of the guards walking over somewhere before the sounds of clashing weapons.

Sounds of struggle were present for a bit before I heard one, then the other fall.

When the sounds of struggle ceased, I was at this point staring at the door, waiting for something else to happen, for more sounds or the door opening.

The latter happened, and a kobold and, what I guessed was a jackal entered the room.

The jackal had already gotten the key and unlocked my chains as the kobold helped me from collapsing on the floor.

When the kobold whispered I knew who she was.

Soon after, the jackal spoke, and then I knew who she was as well.

Well, guess they met each other, which meant I had explaining to do.

Khepri put a robe on me before picking me up and carrying me over her shoulder.

I felt bad for bleeding on her, but if I could control that then I wouldn't have anything to feel bad about.

All I could see was the floors transition from the blood stained stone of a dungeon to the more refined floors of a royal palace.

At some point I thought I heard what sounded like a very large crowd shouting in the distance.

Things didn't go smoothly, because I heard the sounds of guards shouting before I was set down on the floor.

Attempting to move was met with a stinging sensation, however I managed to move enough to see Vres and Khepri fighting off two guards.

Apparently there was a third one who wanted to surprise me, thankfully he made it clear he was there, because I just had enough time to roll out of the way of his strikes.

Khepri seemed to notice I was in danger however couldn't intervene because she was already occupied.

I couldn't roll out of the way fast enough, but that didn't stop me from trying.

Getting sliced in the least vital spot would have been ideal.

However the result was better than I had hoped, because someone else intervened.

Judging from the aggressive sounds of a serpent, it was a Naga.

Looking over, I could see that she was covered, but the green scaled of her bottom half lead my mind to only one individual.

The one who kept trying to lure me.

The one who got me into this mess.

Well, to be fair I'm ultimately to blame, but still, she had some part to play in it.

I watched as she slowly squeezed the consciousness out of him.

Or, she would have if Khepri hadn't killed him.

The Naga let go of him, his limp body falling on the floor.

When she spoke, it confirmed she was the same Naga.

"Why did you do that?"

"He saw your face, your not supposed to expose yourself like that, now c'mon, we got to go." Khepri said before picking me up.

Why would they risk so much for me? It didn't make any sense, sure I could see Khepri, but Vres? I've only known her for a few months, and Khepri had a lot to lose because of this.

The Naga slithered off somewhere else while Vres and Khepri carried me through the halls, and eventually outside.

We went through the upper district, avoiding large amounts of residents wherever possible.

The closer to the middle district we got, the more I could hear the shouting.

It became clear what was going on, people were rioting.

Now it made more sense how they managed to pull this off, that Naga with her inside position and the chaos that would keep most of the guards busy.

At one point, I could see from the corner of my eye people in the streets of the middle district with torches.

When we got to the slums, it was quieter, not anyone causing chaos. Only a few scared residents passing us to get into the safety of their homes or trying to flee.

The familiar environment of the docks became known to my senses. Were we going to take a boat? Were they coming with or staying here?

I heard the voice of a male call out.

"Hey, over here, quickly, we only have so much time."

When we got closer he spoke again.

"Ah so this is him eh?" He asked.

"Yeah, c'mon, get him on, we need to leave."

"Where's Scylla? She make it?"

"Yes, she's already on the boat." The male answered.

Scylla? Was that the Nagas name?

Also, there all coming with? What are they thinking? I know Khepri doesn't really have family ties, but Vres might. And what about Scylla? Even though I don't trust her doesn't she stand to lose the most by leaving?

As we boarded the ship I could hear voices and saw the feet of others pass by, mostly human, the crew most likely.

I was set down somewhere in a lower part of the ship.

Khepri ran off somewhere while Vres stayed behind.

I needed answers.

"Uhg." I couldn't speak, all I could make was guttural sounds.

I needed water.

"Shh, don't move, its alright. Were leaving this place behind and starting a new life." She said this before walking off somewhere.

I'm sorry, what?

Why go through all this? It would be much easier to just-

Damnit.

I lay there, feeling the sensations of the ship moving away from the docks, away from the place I spent my whole life.

To where we were going I have no idea, it must either be somewhere either along the river, or someone else is going to meet with us to continue the journey.

How did they manage to arrange all this? It must have been Scylla, shes the only one who could afford to arrange something like this.

Speaking of the devil, I saw her in less fancy attire sit next to where I lay.

She had a jug of what I hoped was water with her.

She moved the more serpentine part of her body around my upper back and used it as a support.

She handed me the jug, which I took and smelled it.

She just smiled and said.

"If I wanted you dead I would have left you in the palaces dungeon."

She makes a good point, unless she wanted to kill me herself, but then again, she could have done that back in the palace and not go through all this.

Taking in small amounts every now and again, it remained silent until Vres came in.

It didn't take long for her demeanor to change to what I knew.

"Hey! Lay off sister, only I have permission seduce him!"

As much as I didn't want to admit it, it was comforting to hear her usual banter.

"I don't know what you mean. If I wanted him for myself he would already be mine." Scylla said.

Be careful not to over step...

Vres kept trying to accuse Scylla, but she just deflected them away.

I would be lying if I said it wasn't entertaining.

"You two bicker like sisters, here I thought you would never get along." Khepri said as she came into view.

Khepri...

She must hate me for lying.

I expected her to just ignore me or start to question, but no.

She went up to me and asked.

"How are you feeling?"

With my throat not as dry as before, I was able to form words.

"Better." I answered, though my voice still sounded rough.

I could tell she had so much she wanted to know, at this point either Vres or Scylla told her about what I did.

Even if she didn't know, she knew I had to do something to end up in the position I was in now.

"Good." Was all she said before she got up and walked away.

"You got explaining to do my boy." Vres said.

"Yeah." I said.

I looked at Vres after I took another sip of water. She looked like she was waiting for something.

"What?" I asked.

"Well? Go ahead, explain." She said.

"You...already know about the jewels?"

"But I still want to hear you confess." She said.

"Why? You already know?"

"So I can take it all in." She smiled.

"Make it dramatic, full of emotion. I've always wanted to see your emotional side." She explained.

"Vres...don't force a man to talk about what he's feeling, I think we should leave him to rest." Scylla said.

She just crossed her arms, and in the typical child like fashion of Vres, she huffed and said.

"Fiiinee."

Scylla gently slid her body out and I laid down.

When they both left, I fell asleep.

[The next day]

Well thanks to the efforts of the crew, I had a few guys help patch me up and gave me clothing.

Khepri just stood there in her guard like demeanor, watching to make sure nothing happened.

I managed to get to a point to where I was able to walk after another day, and one night, Khepri came to me when I was about to sleep.

She was here for answers.

Not wanting to beat around the bush, I just pointed it out.

"Here for answers?" I asked.

She sighed.

"No subtlety. Straight to it hm?"

"Only when it is needed." I answered.

"Right, guess you need to save it for crime." She bitterly said.

Ouch.

"I don't know what else to say, I'm guilty of committing crime."

"But why? Why would you?" She asked, looking straight into my eyes.

"I was tired of eating food that made me sick, tired of living in shitty conditions."

"There is ways to improve your life without crime." She said.

She was right, so I just admitted I was wrong in what I did.

"Yeah, but I chose to not go that route, I'm just sorry you and the others had to get dragged into this...mess." I said.

"Well, theres no going back for us now. Were getting a second chance, I just hope you don't make the same mistakes." She said.

"I've seen what being a crook does to me and what it can do to those around me. If its a quiet life, then I'm all for it. I was getting tired of always looking over my shoulder, I don't want to go back to that. I also don't want to have to lie to you." I answered.

"I can't tell if you just saying that or you really mean it. Its almost always a mystery with you."

She grasped my chin and made me look her in the eyes.

"Tell me your saying the truth." She said.

I could see something, though I didn't know exactly what it was. Dissapointment, or begging, I couldn't tell.

"I'm telling the truth, no more crime." I answered honestly.

She let go of me and just sat there, staring.

"To be honest." She started.

"After what I've learned what they did to you, I was shook, I stand for law, order and justice yes, but...well what they did to you was just..."

She shook her head.

"I don't think there all like that, but still...the fact I was help protecting such a monster..." She held her head.

She was getting emotinal.

Moving closer to her I wrapped my arm around her and attempted to comfort her.

"I can't forgive myself for letting that happen."

She wasn't the type to really cry but like everyone else we all need to let it out every now and again.

She let out what must have been a lot of pent up feelings.

I just held her as best I could.

When she seemed to be done, I decided to tell her something.

"No one is perfect, what happened wasn't your fault. If you didn't do what you did, I wouldn't be alive. I have you and Vres, and...Scylla to thank for saving my life, and giving it a second chance. You gave up the life you knew for me, and for that I am truley gratefull. This new life we have ahead of us, its our chance to make up for the wrong."

She didn't say anything, she just leaned her head to rest on mine.

After ahwile, she just chuckled.

"That was cheesy." She then laughed.

I smiled, glad to know she was feeling better.

When her laughing died down she looked at me.

Then to my arm, then back to me.

"Oh, sorry." I lifed my arm off her.

"No...its alright."

She started to lean closer.

However, the sound of a wolf whistle caused us both to jump, which didn't do wonders for my aching wounds.

The laughing of Vres could be heard as she came into view.

"The looks on...your...faces!" She said between laughs.

"Vres..." Khepri had her ears down.

When her laughing fit calmed she said.

"Oh you mammals, so emotinal at times." She said.

Khepri just sighed before getting up.

"I need fresh air." Khepri said before getting up and walking to the upper deck.

Vres looked at me and asked.

"Why aren't you like that with me?" She frowned.

"Do you need to ask?" I said.

"Yeah, and I also need to ask this."

She got closer than I felt comfortable with and asked.

"Do you like her?"

"I don't need to answer that."

"You do, don't you." She said, a shit eating grin formed on her face.

"I'm too sore for this."

"I can help with that~" She said.

"No."

"Oh c'mon, no one will know~" She continued.

"If I find you sleeping next to me when I wake up, I'm throwing you overboard."

"Rude!"

[Epilogue]

After the ship docked we found ourselves in a large fishing settlement near a large basin.

I have to admit, Scylla really sacrificed a lot so that we could live a new life, we got a house, that was strangely occupied by all four of us.

We all found work doing stuff...well all save for Vres. She didn't really steal or anything, but I was still keeping an eye on her just in case. When I asked her on what she would be doing, she said she was looking.

I helped with farming and fishing, Scylla made money making cloth, and Khepri took an apprenticeship for smithing.

Even though I wasn't as a devout student as she was, I always wanted to learn, so I took an apprenticeship with her.

The blacksmith wasn't really too happy, but agreed.

It's been several months since we landed here, and so far its been quiet. We go about our daily lives, and occasionally there's the usually shenanigans between Scylla Khepri and Vres.

Honestly? I'm still looking out for any of the familiar guard uniforms to come into town and begin questioning.

I know that by now people back at the city had to be questioning Scylla's disappearance.

Speaking of Scylla, I found her to be more tolerable than I had thought. I guess I had a prejudice against the rich, but in the time I knew her, she was a generous and patient soul. Sure she isn't rich anymore, but I learned that she's always been unpopular with the some of the nobles due to her good qualities.

I find myself really respecting her, she gave up a lot, and I can now find myself to forgive her for what she helped cause. I guess in a way she's responsible for my current life.

And for that I thank her.