Novel Everyone's a Catgirl!

Chapter 201: Next Level

Cailu’s headache following his conversation with Matt had little to do with the previous day’s inebriations. How could Keke, a member of Matt’s Party, see the necessity of an adept healer, but he could not? At least Tristan seemed to grasp the weight of the task ahead of them.

Browsing what Eshe called the Room of Records, Cailu pulled another leatherbound tome from a cluttered shelf, setting it on the polished desk before leafing through the script penned within. So far, he’d found nothing more than transactions, reports, and trading information in the dozens of books he had reviewed. It was a slow process with one good arm. Eshe had little to say to him in their interactions, which left him to search for Magni’s cursed book alone. As he perused another volume of imported seeds and plants, his thoughts returned to Matt.

To choose such a reckless Class like [Battleguard] without the proper support was tantamount to suicide.

Cailu wanted to believe that Matt’s boorish decisions and crassitude approach to the girls he chose to surround himself with obscured a stubbornness that would keep him alive. He wasn’t entirely inept in combat, and Keke was adaptable, moving instinctively at his side without needing commands. Ceres had performed admirably in their battle with the Ejderha. Ravyn was questionable, at best. But Cannoli had not shown any desire to Level nor any interest in her future Class. Her disdain for Kirti anchored her own progress, and by association, Matt’s.

What is it that clouds your judgment, boy?

In all his years in Nyarlea, one of the many aspects of the other island’s men that puzzled Cailu was their overwhelming, unrelenting attachment to the women in their Party. Allowing emotional attachments to form was not only dangerous, but it also risked the willingness to continue procreating their island. What did they stand to gain by Leveling beyond their Party’s capabilities and halting progress to wait for the others?

The image of Naeemah’s piercing gaze gripped his heart.

He slammed the cover shut and shelved the book. It is not the same. Naeemah has been at my side for far longer…

Doubt does not suit you.

Cailu chose another book.

How long had Naeemah spent at his side? He could hardly recall his first day in Nyarlea or when he’d begun traveling to the other islands. When had time become so mangled? It had taken a century to find Fera and two decades to lose her. A new world presented an opportunity to pour his frustrations and mistakes into honing himself to perfection. This time, he would install a queen open to guidance. Establish an island that bent to his will. Grow powerful enough that the sword of a noble could never bring him to his knees again.

So he had. And still, it was not enough. When would it be enough?

With a grunt, Cailu tossed the tome on the desk, then skimmed through the pages. The ink was still dark and unmarred, the parchment unfaded by time. This was a newer record. He slowed his finger, reading down an imported list of rare Encroacher leathers, silks, and mined metals and ores from Nyarlothep and beyond. All materials for armor.

Transferred to the inventory of Ikrele.

Perhaps he could not convince Matt to find a new Healer, but there were other ways to increase his chances of surviving in Nyarlothep and beyond. He snapped the book shut and collected it under his arm.

Cailu marched to the courtyard that held the castle’s Encroacher farm. Jeenie and Keke peered into an enclosure that held a pair of inyokas—black, serpent-like creatures with sharpened scales and six ruby eyes each. They subdued their prey with powerful constriction and a merciless bite.

Jeenie stroked the top of one’s head as if she were petting a housecat. Keke watched intently, muttering a string of questions as fast as Jeenie could answer. Cailu had intended to find Jeenie alone, but Keke could satisfy a curiosity he’d had since arriving on Ichi.

“Keke,” Cailu called.

“Great,” Jeenie murmured under her breath. “At least he’s nice to look at.”

Keke’s ears perked up, and she glanced over Jeenie’s shoulder, tilting her head and narrowing her eyes. “Yes, Cailu?”

“Are you, Matt, and Cannoli still equipping the armor made from the Enchantress’ tigers?” Cailu approached the cage, keeping a safe distance from the inyoka.

“We are,” Keke replied, touching the tiger skin scarf around her neck. “Is there a problem?”

Matt’s priorities. “It is outdated,” Cailu replied.

Keke bristled. “It’s done a good job so far.”

Cailu narrowed his eyes. “Oh? How did Matt receive such a brutal scar on his chest? Was he in his armor then?” Matt’s erose net of scarring had caught his notice during their fight with the Chikara.

Keke’s features darkened, and her ears flattened against her head. Her tail flicked at her ankles in agitation.

So he was.

“Do you have a point, Cailu?” Jeenie interrupted. The inyoka at her fingertips hissed. “You lose your allure the longer you talk.”

“Yes.” He turned to Jeenie and held up the book. “Who is Ikrele?”

“You could have started with that,” Keke grumbled.

“Ikrele is—was?—Magni’s armorsmith. She has a huge place in the First Shell where she made whatever he wanted.” Jeenie sniffed and rested her arm at her side. “Leather, plate, whatever. She made Magni’s armor and all of the Ejderha’s stuff.”

She must have come from Nyarlothep. No one on Ichi Island could have taught her such a wealth of Skills. “Where can I find her?”

“First Shell, directly west of the castle. It’s the only forge there; you can’t miss it,” Jeenie paused, chewing her lip. “Assuming she’s still there, at least.”

Cailu frowned. “What do you mean?”

“Are there working eyes in that pretty head of yours?” Jeenie snickered. “Everyone in the First Shell was sure you came here to kill them—Magni said as much. And then your lot blew the door off the castle, and you killed the damn king.”

“In a sanctioned duel,” Cailu snapped.

“That changes nothing,” Jeenie snarled. “A lot of us were terrified; I know I was. We thought we were next. Many girls fled the city before Magni drew his last breath.”

“You can’t blame them, Cailu. If a handful of catgirls went missing to help Rājadhānī’s new queen resume her rule, there are no questions asked. Our lives aren’t nearly as important as yours,” Keke said. “You’ve said as much yourself.”

Brainwashed simpletons. “It is the truth. However, I am not the murderous villain so many of you believe me to be.”

The inyoka nearest Jeenie whipped its head toward Cailu, baring its glittering teeth and licking its chops.

“Do you need anything else?” Jeenie hissed.

“No.” Cailu gestured to the cage. “I suggest keeping your monsters muzzled in the future, lest you lose a hand.”

“I won’t be the one losing a hand,” Jeenie countered, shifting her attention to the enclosure.

Keke’s gaze lingered a few heartbeats longer on Cailu, flickers of concern in her expression. Then she turned back to the inyokas and her conversation with Jeenie.

Cailu turned and made his way back to the castle, swallowing the creeping feeling of doubt that pecked away at the edges of his thoughts.

As Jeenie had said, the building was easy to find. Ikrele’s home was expansive, even compared to the other enormous dwellings within the First Shell. A metal sign depicting a hammer crossed over a needle swung above the front door, and green awnings covered every window. The chimneys over the forge were clear of smoke, and the clank of metal against anvil was notably absent.

Cailu knocked on the door. There was the sound of someone moving inside, but no one came to the door. He knocked again.

“We’re closed!” a stern voice called.

“Then make an exception, Ikrele,” he barked.

Another few seconds passed before the door swung wide. A thick-armed woman with skin like tanned leather and a mop of silver hair tied back at her neck stared up at Cailu. Her dark eyes were cold and hard; twin pieces of ore the heat of the forge had never reached. A stained smock covered a pair of thick trousers and a grime-pocked tunic.

“The king killer, is it?” Her voice was gruff. “Come to clean up the rest of his little helpers?”

“If you thought I would kill you, why answer the door?” Cailu challenged.

“I’d prefer to keep my dignity in my last moments. Not let you chase me around my house like a goddess-damned kitten.” She crossed her arms and frowned. “Though, I might have a chance if you’re down an arm.”

“Your life is not mine to take,” Cailu replied, holding out the book. “I came to ask for your help.”

Ikrele wrinkled her nose and accepted the tome, flipping through its pages. “You here to loot my supplies, then?”

Cailu sighed. “No, Ikrele. I need armor made.”

“I don’t work for free.” She closed the book and passed it back.

“As you shouldn’t. I can pay you well. From my own pockets or Magni’s stores, whatever you wish.”

Ikrele raised a brow and leaned against the doorframe. “That’s as tempting an offer as I’ve ever heard. What do you need, king killer?”

“Please, just Cailu.” Matt, Keke, Ravyn, Ceres. “I need four—” Cailu hesitated. Cannoli. He sighed. “I need five sets of armor crafted. Name your price.”

 

Chapter 202: Antifragile

My steps carried me through the halls at a brisk pace, the corner of my eye twitching every second of the way. I couldn’t believe Keke refused to back me up when I needed her most. After everything we’d been through, how could Cannoli’s best friend abandon her like that? What would our journeys be like if Cannoli wasn’t there?

If Cannoli wasn’t there anymore, then…

Images of Cannoli cooking over an open fire with a wide smile filled my head. Pinching my cheek, filling the bowls of kittens in Catania. She had the kind of attitude, the kind of personality that set your heart at ease. As long as she stuck around, I was sure everything would work out somehow. Cannoli just carried that sorta energy around her.

To see it all disappear would just be…

No. I’ll convince her. We’ll make amends and laugh over food like we always do. She can do this. I know she can.

She could do this. Right?

I eventually caught Cannoli leaving one of the bathing rooms. Her hair was damp, and she wore a decorated white robe. She offered what could barely qualify as a smile as she approached.

“Matt. Are you okay?” The tone in her voice couldn’t hide anything. There was no real concern or interest in it. It was gut-wrenching.

“Can we talk for a bit?” The way I figured it, we’d be much better off just biting the bullet and getting this over with. I hated to take away from her relaxation, but time was of the essence. We couldn’t stay in Magn—er—Naeemah’s castle much longer. There were things to do. “It’s important.”

Cannoli hummed and gazed at the ceiling. “Sorry. I’m not really in the mood to talk right now. Maybe tomorrow?”

My heart sank.

“Yeah. That’s fine, I guess.” I scratched the back of my neck while my thoughts haunted me. No, it’s not fine, Matt. “Just let me know as soon as possible, okay? Like I said, important.”

“Mhm.”

Cannoli started down the hall, and I watched as her tail bobbed between the folds of the robe’s fabric. I began to drum my fingers against my thigh and tap my shoe against the floor. Cailu could yell at me for this later. I wasn’t about to make the same unreasonable demands that Cailu made of his Party. These weren’t just my Party members. They were my friends, my… my girls.

And now what? Now you sit here, waiting for her while she takes her time to think about how you made her feel?

“Shut up,” I quietly whispered to myself.

The others fought tooth and nail beside you. They did what they had to in order to ensure not just your survival but theirs. Given the chance, Cannoli would’ve let Ceres die. You’re okay with that?

I continued to curse the voice in my head while I bunched my hands into fists. The voice was wrong. It had to be. This wasn’t me talking, it was someone or something else. Cannoli had always been the life of the group—the glue. Bringing us up when we were down.

And that’s all she does, the irritating thoughts continued. She whimpers in the background as the Party’s damsel in distress—your princess. Maybe Cailu’s right.

“Cannoli,” I said before my thoughts could grow louder. This had to be resolved. Now. Feelings and concerns I hadn’t realized were there—or perhaps I refused to acknowledge—were rising up within me. “We need to talk.”

“Matt,” Cannoli sighed, looking over her shoulder. “Tomorrow, okay? I’m really not—”

“We can’t wait for you anymore,” I blurted. I shut my eyes and sucked my lips in between my teeth. “This can’t wait.”

Cannoli furrowed her brow and frowned. Was that anger? Resentment?

“What do you mean, Matt?” There was no squeak or stammering surrounding her question. Gone was the timid and thoughtful [Acolyte] I’d grown so accustomed to.

I wasn’t sure who I was looking at. “We’ve been training, and I hit Level 10.”

Cannoli’s eyes widened as she closed the distance between us. “Matt, that’s great!” At last, there was a hint of happiness in her voice. The cheer I so adored. The beating of my heart slowed. “But, combat? Against Encroachers? You know that I… I can’t fight very well.”

“That’s why I’m here.” I reached down and took her hand, holding it between us. “Keke’ll be 10 too, soon. I want you to train with us. That way, you can become a [Priest].”

Her smile faded into a thin line. “I’m… not so sure about becoming a [Priest],” Cannoli admitted. “I don’t know if I’m qualified to do much of anything.”

“Yes, you are.”

Oh, Matt’s coming to the rescue again, the thoughts chided. Seems she can’t do anything without your support. Grow a damn backbone.

Cannoli blinked. “You really think so?”

“Yes,” I said, nodding. “But you have to put the work in, Cannoli. We need you. I need you. Please.”

“Matt, I—” Cannoli hesitated.

Please. Just say yes. Let’s go train and get you back up. It’ll be just like always, I promise.

“Maybe it is time we talk,” Cannoli continued. “But not in here. Let’s go to my room.”

“Sure.”

Cannoli rubbed my hand with her thumb and graced me with a quick smile before heading off down the hallway. As her feet pitter-pattered against the marble, a sense of anxiety began to fill my chest and tighten my stomach. The same kind I used to get shortly before my past girlfriends broke up with me.

When Cannoli led me to her room, it was empty. She motioned for me to sit on the nearest bed, then took a seat beside me.

“This is very hard for me to talk about,” Cannoli began. She fiddled with her thumbs in her lap, her gaze constantly moving. Her chest rose and fell rapidly, and I struggled not to shake the words out of her mouth. “So please… just bear with me.”

“Okay.”

“There’s something you should know. About my— my past. My family,” she murmured.

I nodded.

“My mother was… not a good person. She was everything we stand against. Years ago, when I was still a kitten, she was taken away from me for being in love,” Cannoli paused.

She’d said as much after I returned from Abalone. “Cannoli, I rememb—”

“I’m not done. Just wait.” Cannoli stood and paced the room. “I wasn’t completely truthful with you. It wasn’t my father she loved, it was another island’s man. She hid him.”

I blinked. “I see.”

“I owe Keke and Elona everything for what came after. I’m sure I would’ve thrown myself in the ocean if not for her. Still, I felt an emptiness from my mother’s absence. And so I turned to Saoirse.

“For me, my faith was my everything. My way of life, why I woke up every morning, my guiding light. After Mother was unsuccessfully rehabilitated and then imprisoned, I was shamed by her sins. I wished to repent, to atone for my mother’s atrocious acts, and become a [Bishop] that was worthy of the name.”

A chill crawled down my spine. Cannoli’s words were starting to sound less like her and more like a zealot.

“I spent every day worshipping Saoirse, praying that the same sins would not befall me. I’ve committed her Decrees to heart and followed them as best I’m able.” Cannoli’s ears twitched downward as she turned and made another circuit around the room. “When I realized how I felt about you, I was afraid I’d destroyed everything I worked for.”

She said as much with Ravyn.

“But then, you… you allowed—” Her words trailed, and she inhaled a deep breath. “What Kirti has done is reprehensible, and you will not change my mind on this. I cannot follow a person, man or not, if I do not understand the full weight of Saoirse’s teachings and expectations.”

“What do you mean?” I chanced asking.

“Let me finish,” she snapped.

I chewed my tongue and stayed silent.

“What I’m saying is,” Cannoli continued, “I must first understand what and who it is I follow. I have to understand Saoirse if I am to become a [Priest].”

I fought down the urge to emphasize the importance of our training. There would be no further understanding unless she could follow a full-fledged [Priest], which meant she had to get to Level 10. She was jumping too far ahead.

“I spent days preaching and celebrating her blessings with a mere figment of understanding,” she said. “I barely qualify as an [Acolyte], let alone a [Priest]. I wish to undergo formal study. That’s why… I think, at least for the time being, we should part ways.”

I shot to my feet. “No, Cannoli. Come on, no! We… we can figure this out. I’ll help you get to Level 10, and we’ll take you to Nyarlothep!” I gripped her by the shoulders. “Then you can continue studying while Keke and me work on hitting Second Class.”

“It’s not the same, Matt,” she whispered. She shut her eyes as tears threatened to fall. “I will go to Nyarlothep with you, and we shall part ways there.” Her lips trembled, and my head throbbed at the thought of her absence. “F-f-formal education m-may take some time. I… I n-need this. I need closure. My mother, she—”

I pulled her into an embrace as tears trickled down my cheeks. Wasn’t there anything else we could do? How long was formal education supposed to take? Surely there was a better alternative.

There was no Party without Cannoli. She was irreplaceable.

Damn it!

“I understand,” I choked.

“Thank you, Matt.” Cannoli wrapped her arms around me, squeezing me tightly. Another sob choked her throat. “I’m so sorry.”

 

A note from DoubleBlind



Everyone's a Catgirl! Volume One and Volume Two are available for pre-order now!



Matt’s thumb whipped across the screen of his smartphone as he mouthed the text message to himself.

She shouldn’t think I’m a total creep, right?

Recently, it’d become a trend whenever he tried to chat up a local lady. Whether he was picking up groceries, grabbing a cup of coffee, or visiting a local bookstore—because hey, girls like books—the response was always the same.

“And, sent!” Matt said, dropping his phone on the bed. Crossing his fingers, he leaned his head back and prayed. The text message was a simple invitation for coffee and a walk around the outdoor mall. Pure, simple, and honest. Nothing weird, nothing sexual. Natasha seemed to enjoy his presence well enough, and hey, you missed a hundred percent of the shots you didn’t take.

The phone vibrated, and Matt slowly looked down to see the four most dreaded, soul-crushing words ever conceived into a single sentence.

“I have a boyfriend,” came Natasha’s reply.

Matt’s heart sank as he retrieved the phone to type his reply.

No, man! Don’t reply right away! It makes you look desperate!

“She already turned me down,” he mumbled to combat his thoughts.

“hey no worries! i just thought we would hang out as friends ” Matt replied. The three dots that indicated Natasha was typing popped up below his message. They disappeared, appeared for a few more seconds, then disappeared again.

And now you get ghosted. Good job, Kelmer.

Matt sighed and leaned back against the frame of his bed. It was a rickety old thing, beaten to hell and back from when he was a kid. His mom had been overly frugal most of his life, refusing to replace anything that could still be repaired or fixed up. “Waste not,” she would always say.

With his enthusiasm shot, Matt pitched his pay-as-you-go phone to the side and pulled the bed covers up to his neck.

“Is there something wrong with me?” he whispered, turning to the wall beside him. He never found himself to be particularly unattractive or irritating to be around. Yet somehow, he could never hold onto a girl for over a month. Three if he was lucky. “Maybe I should work out. Chicks dig dudes with big muscles, right?”

No, it was definitely a personality problem. Something about the way he approached people, spoke, divulged interests… it had to be something in that category. Sure, he was no model, but he still had a decent body shape. One of the few things he felt grateful to his dad for.

Regardless of where the issue was, he’d have to do something different. This had been the fourth girl to shoot him down in as many days. Whatever he was doing wasn’t working.

“Only a fool keeps doing the same thing expecting different results,” he mumbled. “That’s how it went, right?”

Matt drummed his fingers against his elbows in thought, the tantalizing call of video games beckoning him to leave his covers and lose himself in an imaginary world.

He would’ve listened if he wasn’t so damn depressed.

“Matthew Taylor Kelmer!” came the ratty voice of Matt’s mom.

Matt shot up, tossing the covers off and throwing his legs over the side of the bed. Before him was a thin woman with curls of brown hair flecked with gray. She looked upon him with a disapproving glare.

“What did I say about dying your hair, mister?” she asked, tapping her foot on the carpet like she was scolding a child, and not a nineteen-year-old man. “And red? Are you turning into one of those cartoon porn addicts?”

“N-no, Mom. Calm down, okay? I just wanted—”

“Wanted what? What did you want?”

She was inconsolable when she got like this. The rule of the household was that Mom was the queen, and you were her servant. Breaking the rules or simply disagreeing with her was tantamount to breaking the law. She’d scream, and you would listen whether you liked it or not. It was a frequent point of contention whenever Matt’s dad wasn’t around.

Unfortunately, it also meant getting a word in without talking over her was nearly impossible.

“I don’t understand what’s wrong with you,” she continued, shrugging and scoffing. “I put hot meals on the table, I give you wonderful birthday gifts, I think the world of you. You are my pride and joy.” She gestured to the red streak in Matt’s hair, tears welling up in her eyes. “And this is how you repay me. You go and dye your hair like one of your cartoon porn characters.”

Matt took a deep, quiet breath and rubbed the back of his neck. He’d have to be careful showing weakness. She would throw a bigger tantrum when he showed a hint of upset.

So instead, he smiled.

“You’re right, Mom. I’m sorry. I should’ve talked to you about it first,” said Matt. “I was just frustrated, you know? Girls keep turning me down left and right.”

She clicked her tongue. “Oh, that Natasha girl.”

Matt frowned. “You know about her?”

“Yeah, I saw what she said to you. Forget about her. Girls these days are twisted. They can’t tell one good man from another. They’re more interested in being hookers.” She leaned forward and gave him a peck on the forehead. “But not my special boy. You’ll find a good match one day. You’ll see. The right girl is out there for you somewhere.”

A well of emotions flowed through Matt’s veins. It’d do no good to argue about her going through his phone. They’d had that conversation once before, which turned into a screaming match between her and Dad.

Just change the password and let it go.

“Get dressed. I have breakfast downstairs.” She turned on her heel and left, stuffing an old shirt of Matt’s under the door. A trick she often used to suggest he stay awake. “No son of mine is getting up past six a.m.”

“Yeah.”

He’d have plenty of time to lose himself in video games later. For now, he’d need to get downstairs asap. When Mom had a meal on the table, you arrived right when she said it was ready. Matt divested his pajamas and reached for a black t-shirt and jeans, slipping them on quickly. On the way out, he plucked his green jacket from the hook on his wall, his mother’s voice calling him down.

“I’m coming!” he yelled back. Matt barreled down the stairs, sliding into the kitchen on his socks. He struck a pose and said, “The man of the house is here.”

“Good to see you, son.”

Matt snapped to an upright position, his hands at his sides. A man in army camouflage sat at the dinner table, a newspaper in one hand and a cup of black coffee in the other. The sunlight hit him from behind, casting his shadow on Matt.

“D-Dad? You’re back already? What about—” Matt stammered.

“I’m on call for now,” he said without looking up. Whatever he was reading was more important than looking at the son he hadn’t seen for six months. “So you’ll be seeing me for a while.”

“I-I see.” Matt sheepishly approached the table, readjusting the jacket around his shoulders before taking a seat.

“I made your favorite,” his mother said with a spatula in one hand and a plate in the other. She scooped a handful of bacon and hashbrowns onto the plate before him. “Made them extra crispy, just how you like it.”

“Thanks, Mom,” Matt said with a forced smile.

Dad set his coffee down on the table and ran a hand over his shiny, bald head. “So, how have things been?” he asked.

“Uh. Good, I guess.” Matt grabbed the ketchup and squeezed some onto his hashbrowns in a figure-eight. Capping it, he pushed it forward in case his dad wanted any. He was as much a ketchup addict as he was.

His dad hummed a non-committal response.

Would it kill you to look at me?

“Just living day by day, you know?” Matt helped a heaping of hashbrowns into his mouth.

“I see,” said his dad. How he spoke always felt manipulative. Rather than speak over or attempt a cordial conversation, he tended to wait until the person couldn’t respond before speaking. He came off as a reserved person to most people. Well, most people didn’t know how Matt’s dad really was. “Got a girl?”

Matt swallowed. “Er, working on one.”

“You should’ve seen what this girl typed to him last night,” his mother started.

“Mom, don’t, really. It’s okay,” said Matt.

“No, it’s not okay, honey.” His mom set the spatula by the stove and put a hand on her hip, leaning on one leg while she spoke. “This Natasha girl was nasty. These hussies are just looking for the next GQ man. They couldn’t give two shits about personality so long as his dick is big.” She scoffed, and Matt rubbed his forehead. “Taylor, are you listening to me?”

“I am, honey.”

“Mom, stop,” said Matt, his hand extended. “Just forget it. It’s not worth it. Like you said, I’ll find the right girl someday.”

She let out an exasperated sigh. “Well, it just makes me so damn mad that these girls can’t see a good catch.”

“What’s that smell?” Dad asked, sniffing the air.

“Oh, shit! Shit!” Mom grabbed a pot holder hanging from the wall and whipped it through the air. Black smoke billowed from the stove, the fire alarm ringing seconds later.

Taylor pushed his chair back and rushed to her side, extracting the spatula she’d left on the stove burner. “Watch it! You need to pay attention when you’re cooking! What do you wanna do, set the house on fire?”

“Don’t get smart with me! Why don’t you try cooking all fucking day, big man?”

“Just. Pay. Attention to what you’re doing!” he bellowed. “That’s all I’m asking. Can you just do that much? Look! Why is the burner still on?” He turned it off.

“Thanks for the meal,” Matt mumbled as he rose to his feet.

It was time to get the hell out of here.

 

Chapter 203: Shut Down

I wiped the stray remnant of tears from my eye as I exited Cannoli’s room. A billion thoughts swarmed my mind as I entertained what the formal education of Saoirse could look like. From what I’d heard up until now, Saoirse rubbed me the wrong way. But I wasn’t about to denounce her in front of anyone. For now, I was just pissed that a goddess was taking Cannoli away from me.

I shook my head and turned on my heel to leave, gliding down the hall at a brisk walk. There wasn’t any point in thinking about this. Cannoli had made her decision, and I had no right to tell her what to think or believe. All I could do was hope that the Cannoli I cared about would still be there by the time she became a [Priest], and, if I was lucky, she’d come back to me.

Everyone needs something to believe in, Kelmer.

I stopped when I saw Ceres at the opposite end of the hall. She didn’t carry the same gait in her step as usual, but she was no less impressive to look at.

“Ceres!” I called.

Ceres turned to look at me, clapping her hands beneath her chin before performing a perfect curtsey. “Sir Matt!”

I ran to her, eager to get my mind off of Cannoli and elated to see Ceres back on her feet.

“It is such a pleasure to see you again. I yearned to be beside you once more.”

“I know, Ceres,” I said, smiling. I wanted to pick her up and hug her, but I was too afraid of making her injury worse. “How are you feeling? You sure you’re okay to walk?”

“Quite,” she nodded and rested her hands against her apron. I’d expected her to have ditched the maid attire for something else, considering what it looked like after Sanrai and the cave-in. But her outfit was strangely absent of any noticeable damage. “Staying in bed for an extended period of time has put pawm civets in my feet.”

“In your feet?”

“You have never heard the term.” She phrased it like a statement as if she were saying it aloud to confirm it rather than ask me.

I shook my head anyway.

“It means to have restless feet. As if they scurry with the minds of pawm civets.” She laughed. “After my training as a [Magic Knight], I struggle to find solace in moments of rest.”

On my left, I caught Lara ascending the spiral staircase, her eyes half-open with Destiny and Tristan close behind.

“Oh hey, it’s the other maids,” I teased.

“Yes,” Lara said. As with Ceres, Lara had managed to keep her maid uniform intact. Now that I was thinking about it, sewing was likely one of the skills taught in the school of etiquette. It was easy to imagine Ceres and Lara stitching their clothes back together in recovery. “We are together again.”

“Just don’t overdo it,” Destiny said with a gentle hand on her shoulder.

“Sister, I’m fine,” Lara said, plucking her sister’s hand from her shoulder and kissing the top. “The Elements have already accepted my apology. They’re in a great mood today.”

Until they’re not.

“Hey, Tristan,” I said with a flick of my head. He paused but offered a gentle smile. “How are you holding up?”

“Fine. How about you, Matt?” he asked.

I nodded. “About the same. I’m ready to leave this island in the dust. I’m sure you are, too.”

“Yeah,” he said with what sounded like a forced laugh. “Me too.”

A couple hours later, we settled into the arena. This time, Keke had asked to do some fighting on her own. It was strange to see her standing alone at the center, waiting for the next batch of Encroachers to attack her. It made me feel a bit uneasy if I’m being honest. At the same time, though, I knew how capable Keke was. Even in a worst-case scenario, the arena’s [Priest], Kirti, and I were all available in case something happened. Cailu was strangely absent.

Jeenie wouldn’t release hell on Keke, would she? I caught Jeenie staring at me like her new favorite snack. She licked her lips and blushed when she realized I was looking back. C’mon, Jeenie. Don’t let me down.

I sat higher up in the stadium than everyone else. Whenever I’d go to a circus or some other open-air event, I preferred to get a seat in the back so I could see everything that was happening. Sure, there weren’t many heads to look over, but old habits die hard.

I leaned back against the stone behind me, somewhat glad to be alone with my thoughts. Watching Keke fight was just the distraction I needed to pull me out of any lingering doubts concerning Ceres and Cannoli. I wasn’t sure if we should talk about Kirti’s saving Ceres. But if Ceres wasn’t going to say anything, then neither was I.

Keke nocked an arrow across her bow, loosing it the moment the portcullis opposite her opened. I couldn’t see what happened, but I did know there were supposed to be four scaled hunchbacks—a sorta goblin-like creature with black scales and a giant underbite—and only three came out. I had to assume Keke had shot one dead already. Everyone else exploded with applause and cheer as the others barreled toward her.

The hunchbacks moved like monkeys and were apparently also Encroachers from Nyarlothep. They had terrible tempers and tough skin—the perfect kind of monster for Keke to fire a few arrows into. Like an orc, they bore thick, jutting teeth from their lower jaw. From what Jeenie had told us, they used their jaws to crack open the tough shells of hair nuts—a coconut-looking fruit—and drink the nectar inside.

I assumed that meant they were herbivores. It turns out that they also used their jaws to crack open the skulls of Encroachers and, horrifyingly enough, catgirls.

“[Pinpoint Weakness]!” Keke cried before shooting two more arrows into the chest of an approaching hunchback. The creature fell to its side, prompting Keke to lift her leg before smashing it down on the hunchback’s neck. With her hand free of arrows, she retrieved the dagger around her belt and stabbed it in the temple.

I grinned, intoxicated by Keke’s nimble movements.

God damn, you’re sexy.

Out of the corner of my eye, I caught Cailu entering the arena next. He and I locked gazes for a moment, and he gestured toward me. I hoped that didn’t mean he would sit next to me. I really couldn’t deal with his disappointment in me on top of everything else going on. I rested one leg on top of the other and stretched my arms out in hopes that he would bother me another time.

I had no such luck.

“Matt,” Cailu started. “May I?”

I leaned forward and set my head against my palm.

“Sure,” I said, making no effort to hide my disdain. I glanced at him, noticing his arm was finally free of the sling. “How’s the arm?”

“Better.” He took the seat to my right.

“Glad to hear it.”

Seconds of uncomfortable silence swept past us. As much as I tried to keep my attention on Keke, I’d grown to understand that Cailu was not a man who participated in activities unless he saw a reason to do so. His sitting next to me was no coincidence. He wanted something.

“If you would allow it,” said Cailu, “I would appreciate you clearing something up for me.”

I clenched my jaw. “Sure. Go ahead.”

“During our campaign against the Defiled on San Island, Yomi took an interest in you.”

Something told me this conversation had a chance to come up, but I had hoped he moved on. The hairs rose on my skin. My toes curled, and my heart began to race. My stomach twisted into knots.

“Oh yeah?” I said. There was safety in ignorance, and I had no idea what he wanted. I clenched my fists and kept them out of sight in an effort to hide my trembling. I watched Keke fight and tried to absorb myself in her. Why the fuck was Yomi still bothering me?

“A number of circumstances arose, and Yomi had to be removed from my Party.” He paused, his attention on the fight before him. “Do you know anything about that?”

“How should I know? She wasn’t my Party member,” I spat back.

The small crowd roared as Keke defeated the third hunchback. I couldn’t tell you what happened. While my eyes were looking, my mind was blank, as if I couldn’t see what was right before me. I felt scared, timid, ashamed, vulnerable.

I don’t want to fucking talk about this.

“I wish to speak of this with delicacy, Matt. I have no doubt that your Party members informed you of your role here in Nyarlea.” Cailu took a deep breath. “Yomi disappeared the night of the Defiled attack. Naeemah nor I could track her whereabouts.”

Another bout of silence.

Maybe he was expecting me to confirm or deny something, but instead, I kept my trap shut.

“Matt,” Cailu continued. “Yomi had to be removed from the Party due to pregnancy.”

“I didn’t offer anything to her,” I growled.

I’m going to punch this man in about four fucking seconds. Third Class or not,

“I do not doubt the sincerity of your words, Matt. The truth was plain to see. The circumstances behind it even more so.”

The sound of Yomi’s bells rang in my head. Maybe it was my imagination or something else, but I felt a sharp pain where my earring was.

“That earring,” said Cailu. “I recognize the gemstone. It is commonly used to ward off Enchantments. You were not wearing it the day of the Defiled fight.”

Ace detective right here.

“So what?” I said. “I got new equipment. What do you care?”

“I am not breeching this subject to cast blame on you,” Cailu quickly said. “Yomi’s actions are reprehensible. She must be brought before the queen for judgment.”

“No,” I hissed.

At last, Cailu and I looked at each other. His stare was hard, cold, and perplexed. Ravyn had told me everything I needed to know about Yomi’s situation—my daughter’s situation—and my options. I was not about to track her down to have her imprisoned or worse.

“Punishment must be wrought upon her, Matt,” Cailu argued. “I do not mean to imply we waste valuable time and effort in locating her. A simple bounty would prove well enough. Time would force her hand. Surely you see that.”

Flashes of Yomi showing up on Ni, begging forgiveness. I don’t know if I could ever forgive her. But… “I said no. Ravyn told me about my rights.”

Cailu cocked his head back, his expression like that of one whose last puzzle piece clicked into place. “I see,” he said. “You worry for your daughter.”

“Yeah. And I guess… to some extent, for Yomi.” I ran a hand through my hair. “I don’t know why. Laugh all you want.”

He frowned. “This is not a laughing matter, Matt.” The man sighed, setting his sights on the battle. “I will not force your hand, but I must implore you to reconsider.”

“I won’t reconsider, Cailu.” I was getting tired of repeating myself. “The last thing I will do is place the stigma of a rapist on my daughter.”

“You care for a daughter you never agreed to.” Cailu studied me in disbelief. “You’ve met, then?”

“No.”

“Matt—”

“She doesn’t deserve it. She’s done nothing wrong,” I snapped before he could continue. “Yomi can’t do any further damage anyway, and I’m not a big believer in sins of the mother falling to the daughter.”

Cailu searched my face in silence. For what, I couldn’t say. At last, he stood. “Very well.” He extended a hand. “I wanted to be sure you were aware of your options. Our obligation is a heavy burden. We would do well to support one another.”

“Yeah.” I took his hand and shook it. “I agree.”

Cailu nodded and walked the other way. With him finally gone, I turned my attention back to the fight. Some black gunk—probably the Encroacher’s blood—was splattered across Keke’s waist, but she was otherwise clean and unharmed. It was an overwhelming victory for her.

“Appear, iPaw.” The device manifested in my hand. I scrolled down to where I could see our Experience and grinned. Keke was Level 10.

Nyarlothep would surely be the greatest test thus far. Shi and Ichi had each been their own can of worms. But as a team, we pushed through and accomplished the impossible. Former enemies had even become allies in some cases. As Second Classes, we could do so much more.

I could do so much more.

Our time on Ichi was coming to an end.

 

Chapter 204: Generation

Desiree marched across the width of Tristan’s shoulders, pausing to paw at the neckline of his top. After three laps and a few scratches between the ears, she settled around his neck, purring softly into his ear. The comfort she brought him was similar to how he’d felt with Sam, a cat he’d grown up with. Warm and soft and sure, quiet and unjudging. He wondered if Ravyn felt the same way about Ball Gag.

Tristan’s sketchbook was laid open across his lap, and the Enchanted pen Destiny had gifted him a lifetime ago danced across the page. He had wanted to draw a portrait of Naeemah since her ascension to Ichi’s throne, and this seemed as good a chance as ever. She carried herself like true nobility—straight-backed and proud, the assertive gaze that dared any to challenge her. Her high cheekbones and sharp angles of her face were as alluring to behold as her daggers.

How do you keep so much confidence? He wished that he could feel even a fraction of her assuredness.

“Tristan,” Cailu called, crossing the courtyard to stand beside him.

Tristan quickly closed the sketchbook and rested his hand on top of it, embarrassment creeping into his cheeks. Art was probably the last thing on Cailu’s list of productive activities. This isn’t training, or reading, or searching for Magni’s book.

Cailu opened his mouth to say something, then closed it, eyes lingering on the book. “You are alone?”

“I just needed some time to think,” Tristan replied. Desiree hopped to the ground, snaking between his feet to rub against his calves. He reached down and stroked the top of her head.

Cailu hesitated, crossed his now unimpeded arms, and asked, “Are you well?”

Tristan blinked. This was obviously not a question Cailu asked lightly nor often. In the short time they’d spent together, it seemed his priorities were fixed on his own well-being and improving the state of Nyarlea. “I… I think so.” He gestured to Cailu’s folded arms. “Is your arm feeling better?”

“It is. Kirti is many things. Thankfully, an apt healer is among them.”

“At least you know for sure that she prefers you healthy,” Tristan quipped with a grin.

Much to his surprise, Cailu returned the smile. A warm, easy reaction that was nothing like the façade he wore as a hardened mentor. “That remains to be seen. Only the gods know what goes on in her head.”

Gods? It interested Tristan to hear him speak of a pantheon outside of Saoirse. He made a mental note to ask Cailu about it later if he had the chance. The last thing he wanted was to shatter the moment with his unending curiosity. “Personally, I think her bark is worse than her bite.”

“I can certainly hope.” Cailu took a seat beside him, gesturing toward the sketchbook. “Were you writing?”

The embarrassment returned. “Drawing, actually.”

Cailu raised an eyebrow. “May I see?”

Tristan’s heart hammered against his chest. Normally he wouldn’t have minded sharing his drawings. But Cailu was such a driving force in Nyarlea. What if he hated them? Or confirmed Tristan’s suspicions that this was the last thing he should be spending his time on? “...Alright.” He handed the sketchbook over.

While Cailu thumbed through the pages, Tristan leaned forward and clasped his hands, letting them hang between his thighs. He did his best not to writhe his fingers with nervousness, settling on a war between his thumbs.

“Your work is extraordinary,” Cailu said.

“Really?” Tristan couldn’t help himself. It wasn’t the reaction he’d been expecting at all.

“Yes. You perceive a person’s depths and capture it to a page.” He held up a portrait of Destiny that Tristan had drawn a few months before Matt had taken him away from the school. “There are more than just pen strokes here. There is a soul behind the image.”

Tristan allowed himself to bask in the praise. Just a little bit. “Thank you, Cailu.”

“Heiki—” Cailu paused.

It was the same name Tristan had heard him speak before. He waited.

“My daughter would love to see these,” Cailu continued, his words slow and measured. “She desperately wished to apprentice to a painter.”

From his last world? It must have been. Cailu must have fathered five times the kittens that Tristan had in his three years in Nyarlea. “You said she would be twenty now, right?”

“Yes.” Cailu maintained his gaze on the sketchbook. A new light flickered in his eyes—the glimpse of a favored memory. Tristan often saw the same spark in Destiny’s when she talked about Leche.

“Even if she didn’t find an apprenticeship, I’m sure she paints wonderful pieces,” Tristan suggested. “Art never seems to leave a person. It’s like an itch that can’t be scratched any other way.”

Cailu chuckled. “Heiki would share your sentiments. She believed it her sole duty to capture the beauty of the world as she saw it.”

“Spoken like a true artist,” Tristan said.

“My wife was proud to have an artist in the family—” Cailu stopped on Tristan’s most recent drawing.

Naeemah.

The brief light that had ignited Cailu’s gaze as he spoke of his previous life was extinguished.

How can you stand it? Betraying the memory of the one you cherished most?

Cailu… you are not alone.

Tristan gently took the sketchbook from Cailu’s hands and spread it wide over his lap. “I know I’m younger than your daughter, but I’d like to tell you what I think, if I may.”

“Hm?” Cailu stared at something miles away in the distance.

Lifting the page containing Naeemah’s drawing, Tristan carefully tore it away from the spine. “In your last world, I can only imagine you as a great father and husband. With all you’ve done for me and Matt, I’m positive that Heiki counts herself lucky to call you her dad.” He tugged the final inches of paper free and closed the book. “There’s nothing you can do for Heiki or your wife anymore. You’ve done all you can. However,” he held the drawing out for Cailu to take, “there are people here, in this world, that care about you.”

Cailu accepted the sketch of Naeemah and studied it in silence for a time.

“I don’t think that seeking happiness in your second chance at life—especially when you’ve done nothing but give this place your everything—betrays anyone,” Tristan continued softly. “Nor will it take away the memories that you made.”

Another stretch of silence passed between them. At last, Cailu murmured, “You certainly do have a gift of seeing others as they are, Tristan.” He tried to hand the drawing back.

Tristan shook his head and held up a hand. “Keep it. Please. I’m just glad you like it.”

“You have my thanks.” The way Cailu said it implied that he meant more than just the sketch.

“Anytime.” Tristan smiled. “So, why did you actually come out here to find me?”

“Ah, yes. The topic at hand.” Cailu nodded and carefully rolled the sketch before depositing it into his [Cat Pack]. “How does the search for Magni’s book fare?”

“Not great,” Tristan admitted. “There’s a small library on the third floor managed by a woman named Svarga.” Mentioning her name teased at the feelings he desperately wanted to suppress. He swallowed hard and continued. “She says she was Magni’s scribe.”

“You view this as a poor result?” Cailu looked bemused.

“Considering she also said that Magni burned a few of the books for kindling, yes. I don’t think a book that matters so much to him would be stored there.”

“Did you happen to inquire with the scribe about this tome?”

“You said to keep it to ourselves for now.” Tristan shrugged, replacing his sketchbook and pen in his pack. “So, no. I didn’t ask her.”

Cailu nodded. “You listen attentively and learn quickly. Matt would do well to learn from you.”

“There’s plenty I want to learn from him, too.” Tristan ran a hand through his hair. “But I can ask Svarga later if nothing turns up.”

“Your time to do so may be limited, which brings me to my next request. I wish to meet with you, Matt, and your Parties to discuss where we will travel next.”

A cold understanding trickled through Tristan’s veins. They’d have to split up again. After everything they’d been through together. “I-I see.”

“You will both have the means and equipment to face your next challenges. We will also establish a reliable method of communication between us,” Cailu replied. “These are all things I wish to address with all members present.”

Tristan was fine with Cailu misinterpreting his apprehension for fear of being ill-prepared. It was easier than the alternative. “That makes sense.”

Cailu stood, and Tristan followed suit. “Let us convene in the dining hall?”

“Sure. It should be close to dinner time anyway,” Tristan agreed. “I’ll be right there.”

“Of course.” Cailu turned and made his way back to the citadel. After a few strides, he stopped. “Oh, and Tristan?”

“Hm?”

“Any man would be lucky to call you their son.” Without another word, Cailu disappeared into the castle.

Desiree jumped into Tristan’s arms as he watched Cailu go. The torrent of emotions building in his chest overwhelmed him with Cailu’s words. He bowed his head into Desiree’s fur and let the tears run free.

 

I want to take a moment to shout out Ranger Frank this week. He's an absolutely stand-up guy who wants the best for his story and his community.

His story, Deathworld Commando: Reborn, is 7 Volumes strong. Every chapter is packed with relatable characters and a captivating narrative. Don't miss out!

You can also catch the story on ScribbleHub and HFY!

Thanks for the shoutout, RangerFrank! Here's to many more catgirls and commandos.

---

Chapter 205: Bubble Pop!

Cailu waited at the narrow dining room table as Tristan, Matt, and their Parties filed into the room. Zahra was at his left, ever still and stalwart. Kirti sat at his right, reserving dark side glances toward his arm, but otherwise remained silent.

Removing the sling one day early will not be the death of me, witch.

Naeemah was once again absent from their meeting. She’d taken care to avoid Cailu since their conversation. Perhaps that was for the best.

“The whole family’s here. It’s like Thanksgiving dinner all over again,” Matt grumbled, taking a seat next to Keke.

What nonsense do you speak of now?

Tristan responded with a weak laugh, apparently familiar with this ‘Thanksgiving.’ “It won’t be that bad. We’re all friends here.”

“I wouldn’t go that far,” Ravyn hissed.

Matt replied with a noncommittal grunt.

Cannoli took a seat beside Ravyn at the far end of the table. Her gaze was downcast, and her ears dipped to the crown of her head. Tristan positioned himself between Destiny and Lara, his cat familiar circling his lap before curling to rest.

Three servants delivered a selection of small plates and bowls filled with appetizers. Matt plucked a handful of mixed berries from a wooden container. He popped a few into his mouth and asked, “So, Cailu, what’s this meeting for?”

Don’t speak with your mouth full. It was like addressing an ill-mannered child. “The other islands are strained by our absence, and we must return to our duties posthaste. You and Keke have achieved Level 10. Summon iPaw.”

The square device materialized on the table. Cailu navigated through the menus before selecting [Companion iPaw]. As both Matt and Tristan were within the required proximity, options for [User Matthew] and [User Tristan] appeared. He chose Matt first, then scrolled through the images of his Party.

“Cannoli, you are still Level 8. This will need to be rectified—”

“No. It doesn’t,” Cannoli interrupted, raising her eyes to his. “I will travel with Matt to Nyarlothep and seek Saoirse’s Sanctuary.” The quiet, timid girl had vanished behind a face of furious determination. “I don’t need your—” her eyes flickered to Kirti, and she frowned, “—assistance.”

Cailu looked to Matt. With tense shoulders and his hands folded on the table, Matt nodded his agreement. There was more to this that neither of them chose to say.

Is this you replacing your healer, Matt? “Very well. I can summon an escort to ensure your safety to the Sanctuary.” When Cannoli opened her mouth to protest, Cailu raised a hand. “It will be a [Bishop] of the faith, I assure you.”

With another furious look at Kirti, Cannoli nodded and refocused her attention on the table. Her blazard pet worried at her fingers, pushing its face against her hand.

Cailu pressed on. “Tristan, how is Shi Island faring?”

Tristan’s face blanched, and he crossed his arms. “I wasn’t looking forward to this conversation,” he admitted. “Shi Island is in a very, very bad way.”

“How so?”

“The groups of Defiled are destroying the cities one by one,” Ceres spoke up. “Venicia is one of the few remaining that prospers.”

“Our hometown was one of them,” Lara said sadly. “Not even the Elements could save Leche.”

In the whirlwind of events since his arrival on Ichi Island, Cailu realized he had very little information on Tristan’s arrival or time on Shi. He accessed Tristan’s Party on the iPaw. Base Level 20 was not so great a feat, especially if you utilized your time and resources. But he was still a First Class—that part concerned him. “Are you new to this world?”

Tristan shook his head. “No. I’ve been here for three years.”

Cailu’s eyes narrowed. Surely you did not neglect your duties?

“Before you tan his ass, they were holding him hostage on Shi. Inside the School of Etiquette,” Matt said, his tone sharp.

“What kind of man allows himself to be taken hostage?” Cailu asked.

“You’re asking the wrong question, Cailu,” Destiny growled. “What you mean is, what kind of catgirl takes a man hostage?”

Tristan laid a hand on Destiny’s shoulder. “There’s no excuse for my remaining complacent for three years. I should have done more, and I’ll be the first to admit it.”

“But, Tristan—” Destiny began.

“No, it’s alright. I can’t change the past, Cailu. None of us can,” Tristan locked his gaze, words weighing heavy in the air. “What I can help with is the future. So tell me what to do.”

Cailu studied Tristan in silence. The boy’s intentions were genuine, and there was heart in everything he said. There was little reason to distrust him now. “This… catgirl. Is she still in a seat of power at the school?”

“Celestia was removed from her position by myself and two of the island’s residents. Ara is the one leading the school and pushing attempts to restore Shi in my stead,” Tristan explained. “It’s not perfect, but it’s a start.”

“That is well enough,” Cailu replied. “Shi Island is known for its [Magic Knight] training, is it not?”

Ceres held up a hand, signaling her desire to speak. At least one of you has manners. He gave her a curt nod. “It was, sir. The school was destroyed in the attacks, and the Sword of Virtues stolen. It is no longer an adequate space for [Magic Knight] training.”

“That explains the influx of recruits in Nyarlothep,” Cailu noted. “Tristan—”

“Hey. Who the hell are you to give Tristan so much shit about his island?” Ravyn snapped. Ball flapped away from her shoulder with her sudden outburst. “There are starving kittens crawling all over Shulan, stealing [Cat Pack]s and Bells so they can eat.”

Cailu frowned. “My duty is shared between San and Nyarlothep. There is no time—”

“All I’m hearing are fucking excuses. Kuso! Tristan and Matt gave hope to a bunch of kittens who had to live underground on Shi Island. What the hell have you done to help the girls on San?”

How could you possibly understand the weight on my shoulders? Cailu inhaled a deep breath through his nose. No, as much as it pained him to admit it, Ravyn was correct. The economical situation on San Island was out of hand, to put it lightly. It was one of the many reasons he needed assistance from the other men.

A sudden idea occurred. “Tristan, you wish to study [Wizard], do you not?”

“I do.”

“The hell does that have to do with San—” Ravyn started.

Cailu talked over her. “You are an avid reader with attention to detail.”

Ball screeched over Ravyn as she raised her voice. “Don’t ignore—!”

“Suppose we were to trade places for a time,” Cailu suggested.

Ravyn quieted at last, staring at Cailu in disbelief.

Tristan furrowed his brow. “What do you mean?”

“San Island is the epicenter of [Mage]s and Magic. I believe you would flourish both in your studies and as an economic advisor.” Cailu gestured to Zahra and Kirti. “In the interim, we will cull the Defiled threat on Shi Island.”

Drumming his fingers on the table, Tristan hummed in thought. “How will you know where to go? Certain cities are affected more than others.”

“I will join them,” Ceres said.

“Ceres?” Matt raised an eyebrow.

“Sir Matt, it will take some time for you and Keke to study and obtain your Second Class. I wish to help these efforts in improving Nyarlea to the best of my ability.” Ceres’ eyes shined with pride, and she held her chin high. “It would be my honor to assist in restoring my island.”

“Ceres would make a great guide, Matt. And you know she’d be safe,” Keke added.

“I know, I just…” Matt looked from Ceres to Cailu, then puffed out his cheeks with a sigh. “Yeah. Alright.”

“So, why don’t I go with Tristan, then?” Ravyn asked, her anger seemingly quelled by Cailu’s proposition. “Help get him comfortable. You know what it’s like in Shulan.”

Matt’s face paled. He set his jaw and looked at Ravyn. “Are you sure?”

“What, you want me to sit around and wait for you to finish your Second Class?” Ravyn snapped. “Baka. I’ll be ready for you again when you’re done. You won’t miss me.”

The expression Matt wore said otherwise. He rubbed his neck, then crossed his arms. “Okay.”

“Is there anything left here that we still need to do?” Tristan asked, eyes lingering on Cailu.

“I’m awaiting the completion of a commissioned order in the First Shell,” Cailu replied. “If she has apprentices, it should be finished within a few days. I will visit her tomorrow. Once she is finished, we will depart.”

“What’s the order?” Lara asked, touching her chin and staring at him with wide eyes.

“You shall see when it is done. No sooner.” Though it seems Cannoli’s armor will end its life in a wardrobe.

“What about Ni Island?” Matt asked. “None of us will be there.”

“Ni Island didn’t have a man for a very long time until you showed up,” Keke said gently. “The girls there have been doing a good job of keeping things peaceful. They’ll be okay for a little while longer.”

Matt’s face fell.

Cailu felt a tinge of empathy for him. It was difficult to be called superfluous. “They will need you, Matt. It is why you train. Accept Keke’s advice as a blessing.”

“Yeah. Sure.”

“Sir, dinner is complete,” one of the servants returned to announce. “May we bring it out?”

“A moment, please.” He waited for the girl to bow and leave before addressing the table. “Any questions?”

“I don’t think so,” Tristan replied. Destiny and Lara shook their heads.

Keke, Ravyn, and Ceres also signaled they were satisfied. Cannoli’s stare was years away.

“I’m good. Are we done?” Matt asked.

“Yes, that is all for now.”

“Great. I’m not hungry.” Matt stood and pushed his chair back to the table. “Gonna go for a walk. Enjoy dinner, guys.”

“Matt,” Keke said, reaching for his hand.

“Nah, I’m okay.” He pulled it away. “Eat something. I’ll find you later.”

Cailu watched him go, raising an arm to the maid waiting with their meal.

This is the reality, Matt. Nyarlea is forever changing, and we must change with it.

 

A note from DoubleBlind



Everyone's a Catgirl! Volume One and Volume Two are available for pre-order now!

A huge thank you to my new Patrons, Ed (S-Tier! Thank you!) and hanani!

---

Chapter 206: Wild Magic

Alone. I’d be fucking alone in Nyarlea.

Just when I thought I really had something going. My Party breaks. My girls.

My family.

I was pissed. Beyond pissed. I stormed out to the courtyard filled with the Encroacher zoo. I wanted to put my axe in something’s face. Strangle it with my bare hands.

It’s temporary, Kelmer.

I had to get to Second Class; I knew that much. And with how much faster I Leveled than the girls, it made sense for them to work in my absence.

But who the hell knew if Cannoli was coming back, or if Ceres would be safe with Cailu, or if Ravyn would beg to swap to Tristan’s Party after everything that had happened between us.

Fuck!

I roared with frustration and punched the wall. A sickening crack followed, and I was sure I broke at least one of my knuckles. The skin split and bled. I hardly felt it and I didn’t care.

I whipped around to the nearest cage of roaches, grabbing onto the bars with my good hand. I was determined to mince whatever was inside to shreds. What looked back at me was a cluster of furry green roaches, each sharing the length and build of a ferret. They had four ears and wide glittering eyes, their heads adorned with a miniature rack of horns.

Cannoli would love these.

The thought drained all the fight out of me. I tottered backward, collapsing against the wall with my knees to my chest. My hand and head throbbed in time, and my heart hammered against my chest.

“Fluffpuffs have a calming effect on people,” a gentle voice came from my right. “Maybe you should have checked them out before you punched the wall.”

I looked up at an approaching Jeenie. I had hoped it would’ve been too late for her to still be manning the cages. Hack first, apologize later.

She studied my face and stopped short. “I don’t mean to bother you.”

I grunted.

She procured a rolled bandage and a corked tonic from her [Cat Pack]. “At least let me see your hand. Then you can spend all the quality time with the fluffpuffs that you want.”

“Aren’t you a [Hunter]?”

“I often dabble in [Alchemy]. It’s less embarrassing tending to bite wounds from the babies,” she explained. “I can stop the bleeding, at least.”

I raised my hand. The pain was getting worse, and the blood coated my wrist. I twisted it to get a better look in the setting sun. Probably broke two knuckles. I sighed. “Sure.”

With a resolute nod, she took a seat next to me and held out her hand. I laid my palm in hers, flinching as she examined it. “Whatever the wall did, I’m sure it deserved it.”

I wanted to smile but found it impossible. Instead, I leaned my head against the wall and searched the violet sky. “My whole Party is splitting.”

Jeenie exhaled a long, drawn-out breath before retrieving another bottle and pouring it on my hand. Stung like hell, but it was easier to focus on than everything else. “Why?”

“So I can train for Second Class.”

“Oh. Well, that’s not permanent, right?” She dabbed the skin with a separate cloth.

“Maybe? I don’t think so.” I groaned, covering my face with my hand. “I don’t know.”

“Hang on. I need to stitch you up a bit. This cut is pretty big.” She held up a needle and translucent, thick thread. “It’s not fun.”

“Go for it,” I said. She could have chopped my hand off and I don’t think it would have hurt as much as that damn meeting.

“Matt, listen,” Jeenie began, biting off a length of thread before weaving it through the needle’s eye. “I’ve lived in this castle for years. None of the women here looked at Magni the way your girls look at you.”

I pictured our first day in the castle, the entirety of the First Shell huddled inside the throne room, staring at us in fear. Looking to Magni as their savior. The rage on their faces when Cailu killed him. “Bullshit.”

“I know that I can’t convince you one way or the other.” The needle pierced my skin, and I barely flinched. “But I believe they’ll all be waiting for you when you’re finished. And all of you will be stronger for it.”

How can separating us make us stronger? Especially when we’re just starting to work well together? Two more pokes through my hand, followed by the tension of Jeenie pulling the thread. As if she were stringing me up like a puppet.

This world is fucked.

“How long have you lived here, Matt?” Jeenie asked when I didn’t respond.

“Three, maybe four months,” I replied. I’d lost track of time.

“Hm. Not long, then.” Another pinch. “Maybe you’ve heard this already, but a lot of kittens grow up dreaming of being chosen for a man’s Party. You can imagine how rare of an opportunity that is.”

I didn’t know what to say or see where this was going, so I stared forward in silence.

“I was one of them. And I can say with certainty that every member of your Party is lucky to have you.” She jerked her chin toward the castle. “I’ve seen the alternative.”

“Thanks, Jeenie.”

One of the fluffpuffs came up to the bars and peered out at me, flicking the pompom on its tail. It made a chittering noise, and its companions joined it. A fluffle of fluffpuffs. The thought made me smile. Just a little.

“See? Even the fluffpuffs like you.” She tied off the thread and uncorked the second tonic. “This one’s for you to drink.”

I accepted the bottle and downed its contents while she emptied the second container to clean off the remaining blood. The potion was sharp and bitter, but the throbbing in my head and hand dissipated.

“If you can see a healer, they’ll be able to clean up the broken knuckles,” Jeenie explained as she gingerly wrapped the bandage around my hand. “If you don’t feel like explaining yourself, I can make you more potions, and they’ll heal in a couple of weeks so long as you don’t use them.”

A sardonic thought came to mind. Could ask Kirti. What’s one more soul rock? I pushed it away. There were [Priest]s sanctioning the duel; I could probably find one of them without much of a problem. “Yeah. I’ll do that.” I lifted my arm. The hand had begun to swell, but the bleeding was gone, and Jeenie had done a good job of bandaging it. “What’s a few more badass scars, right?”

Jeenie laughed. “Just tell them you wrestled a chattaan. Anyone on Ichi would believe that.”

I felt myself return her smile. The aching in my chest was letting up, and the preemptive fear of losing my girls was starting to disappear. Without Jeenie realizing it, she had confirmed the tiny voice in the back of my head—this was all temporary. I knew about Cannoli’s search for Saoirse before walking into that dining hall. Keke had to hit Second Class too, and Ceres and Ravyn were pretty adamant about regrouping once we were finished.

We’d be okay. I’d be okay. One day, one Level, one Class at a time.

“So,” Jeenie began, loading the empty bottles into her pack, “Second Class, punching walls, Party breaks; sounds like you’re leaving soon?”

“Sounds like a few more days,” I replied.

“I’ll miss having you around.” She licked her lips and let her eyes wander. “You have a great,” her gaze lingered at my hips, then returned to my face, “sense of humor.”

I don’t know why her dumb joke struck such a strong chord with me. Maybe because of how badly I wanted everything to work out. Maybe because how Jeenie looked at me now was the shit I had dreamed about while sitting in Leiana’s office. But I laughed way harder than I should have. “It’s my best trait, I hear.”

Jeenie grinned. “Good to hear you laugh again, Matt.” She stood, smoothing her thin white skirt that barely covered more than a few inches of her thighs. “I’ll quit bothering you.”

“Jeenie, wait.” I got to my feet, and her stare followed me as if she had a lock-on button. “I thought you said you weren’t good with people.”

“Hmph. Better with Encroachers, honestly. But,” she crossed her arms over her abdomen, raising her ample chest by a few inches, “there are some exceptions.”

For the first time since I’d arrived in Nyarlea, I took a page from Tristan’s suave handbook. This was my job, and I felt the hints of a genuine connection with Jeenie. “I know I kind of screwed myself wrestling that chattaan.” I took her hand in my good one and brushed my thumb over her knuckles. “But do you want to spend the night with me?”

Jeenie flushed a deep red behind her ocean of freckles, the color nearly as bright as her orange hair. “R-really?” she stammered, hand squeezing mine. “Y-you’d let me?”

There’s the Jeenie I know. “Yeah.”

She sucked in a breath and licked her lips. “C-can we, um… can we go to my wing?” Somehow, her blush deepened. “I just don’t want anyone to hear me,” the volume of her voice decreased with every word.

I laughed. “Sure thing.” I brushed her shoulder with my fingertips. “We don’t have to, Jeenie.”

“No! Goddess, please. You have no idea how— How I— You have no idea!” She tugged on my hand. “Just follow me!”

“Alright, lead on.”

Her excitement was palpable as she led me to the back of the courtyard. I watched her hips and brilliant orange tail sway with renewed fervor. Her hand was warm in mine, and the spring in her step was adorable.

The door she unlocked was flush with the wall; it would have been impossible to see if you didn’t know it was there. She pushed it open, revealing a candle-lit den filled with furs and trinkets. The walls were filled with paintings and sketches of Encroachers. A furry shadow raced from the center of the room to the hallway, out of sight before I could register just what it was.

“That’s Ren. He’s harmless,” she breathed, closing the door behind me.

That’s what they all say. “Bye, Ren.”

Jeenie laughed. “This way.”

She pulled me down a corridor lined with tapestries and flowering vines. Everything seemed to depict or reflect some aspect of nature, and it felt like every island’s wildlife had some kind of representation. The whole place smelled like flowers and exotic spices, much like Jeenie herself.

Her room had the same kind of organized chaos that I’d kept back on Earth. A desk stacked with books, half-filled parchment, and sketches stood to the left of the door. More art and decorations spanned every wall, and a tall oil lamp stood stalwart in the corner, illuminating the space. The focal point was an enormous rug woven with colored rings, each one containing a marching line of animal shapes.

Jeenie caught me staring. “My mother made that.”

“It’s beautiful,” I said. Really ties the room together. “It must have taken her years.”

“Pretty much her whole life,” Jeenie replied. “B-but we can talk about that later! No need to bore you! Ha ha!”

I brushed my hand through her hair. “You’re not boring, Jeenie. I’m not going anywhere.”

She leaned into my touch, moving her ears between my fingers. A dreamy moan squeezed from her lips.

That was it. All other thoughts were wiped away, and I was frozen in place. The only thing I wanted to touch, feel, and breathe was her. “You like that?”

“Yes,” Jeenie purred. She cupped my hand, bringing it to her cheek and sliding my thumb into her mouth.

I watched her face; drank in her expression. She was desperate to please.

And I was happy to oblige.

Memory saved and stored for catgirls. . .

For a few euphoric seconds, everything was perfect.

We curled up together on Jeenie’s bed, mouths locked and her hands rarely leaving my skin. I don’t know how much time had passed before she drew away and blinked up at me.

“U-um, is it terrible… i-if I want to go again?” she mumbled.

I smoothed her hair and kissed her forehead. “You have me all night.” I carefully flexed my injured hand. It hurt like hell. “I might need another potion, though.”

“Oh! Right! Of course!” Jeenie leaped from the bed and retrieved her [Cat Pack]. As she dug through it, she said, “So… do you know how few Encroachers carry cytotoxic venom?”

I touched the scar on my chest. “This was a Defiled.”

“Well, now you really have to tell me what happened.” Jeenie pulled a bottle free and passed it to me. “Please?” She pouted.

I uncorked the bottle and drained it in three gulps. “Yeah. Alright.”

Even when my thoughts returned, things seemed a little brighter. Jeenie was right; my training would be temporary.

I had to trust my girls. I owed them that much.

Quest Updated!

[The More the Merrier]

4/8 Catgirls Successful!

 

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Keke knew it wasn’t right to spy on people. Her mother had said as much on numerous occasions, but she couldn’t help herself any longer. Elona seemed so distant and tired. The dark circles under her eyes betrayed nights of restless sleep, and she was gone from the house more often than usual.

Mother barely talked to her or Cannoli. Of course, she still shared pleasantries and ensured that meals were always on the table. But there weren’t any of the deep talks that she and Keke always shared in their quiet evenings together. What wasn’t Mother telling her? She was fourteen now, no longer a kitten. Surely it wasn’t something so dire that she must hide it away from her daughter?

Then, when Elona turned down a day of fishing together, Keke resolved to find out what was happening.

Keke hardly slept, tossing and turning after a night of weighing her options. If she were caught, it might make the situation worse. But maybe it was something she could help her with. Like the Defiled that fateful rainy afternoon in the forest. Besides, Keke was much better with a bow now than she was then.

So she decided to spy.

Mother woke at dawn as she usually did, despite going to bed just a few hours earlier. Keke tiptoed from her room, then down the hallway once Elona had entered the kitchen. Cannoli slept soundly in the room across from hers—a typical occurrence for the last four years. Keke could hear the high whistle of her soft snores as she passed, checking that the door was completely closed before creeping to the hallway’s entrance.

Elona leaned her hand on the counter and ran a hand through her golden hair. A heavy sigh slid from her lips, and she straightened her back.

Keke recognized the posture; Mother was preparing for a confrontation. She’d mirrored the expression and movement whenever a strenuous Encroacher Quest circled the town or if a Defiled was close to Junonia. Only twice had she done it when speaking with Keke, and both times were within as many weeks.

Without bothering to eat, Elona fixed her [Cat Pack] to her hip and left the house. Keke inhaled a deep breath and licked her lips, counting slowly to five before following her outside.

It was a lot like stalking a roach.

Elona marched through the forested path with purpose, switching to [Combat Mode] as she walked.

Maybe it really is a Defiled.

The morning sun shimmered through the canopy of trees, lighting the leaf-littered path. Keke was careful not to step on dead leaves or twigs.

When her left boot string caught the hanging leaf of an unnoticed thistle, a frustrated hiss of air shot through her teeth. Elona’s ears perked toward the sound, and she hesitated. Keke stopped, squatting low to the ground and holding her breath.

Just a squirrel, Mom. Please think it’s just a squirrel.

Elona shook her head and continued forward. Keke slowly let the air she’d been holding stream through her nose, counted to five, then followed.

It was too early for most of the shops to open yet, so the square was mostly empty. The smells of fresh-baked bread wafted from the bakery mingled with smoked meat from the butcher next door. Elona passed the grocer’s stalls, the tailor, and the forge, stopping at the wooden doorway that belonged to the [Alchemist].

Nauka—or Granny Nauka, as the girls Keke’s age affectionately called her—had been on Ni Island for as long as anyone could remember. She welcomed all who had an interest in the art of [Alchemy], though she taught with a firm hand and was notorious for her lack of patience.

Keke ducked behind a line of wooden barrels of ale beside the Junonia Tavern. She still had a clear view of her mother if she peeked just above the casks.

Elona’s hand rested on the door’s handle, and she froze.

What’s she waiting for?

An uneasy silence filled the air. It seemed like not even the birds were awake yet. It was finally broken by the creak of the door’s hinges as Elona threw it wide.

“Nauka!” she called, taking a step inside.

Nauka’s gravelly voice shouted an incoherent string of words. It must have been a command, as Elona drew her leg back and crossed her arms over her chest.

Granny Nauka wandered outside, closing the door behind her before turning to face Keke’s mother. She adjusted her small glasses on her nose, eyes piercing Elona from deep inside her wrinkled face.

“This is the fourth day you’ve come,” Nauka growled, wagging a finger at Elona. “You need to stop this.”

Elona looked somehow more tired than before, her golden gaze narrowing to thin lines. “Nauka, she will die without it—”

“Utter roachshit, Elona,” Granny Nauka cut her off with a wave of her hand. “Aurora’s a powerful [Bishop]. It’s not for her that you’re asking, and you insult me with this hoax.”

Keke flinched. Cannoli’s mom is in trouble?

Elona crossed an arm over her chest, resting her elbow against her wrist to knead at one temple. She blinked and shifted her balance to her other foot, seeming to chew on her words as she fidgeted in place. “And what if you’re right?” she said slowly.

Nauka made a disgusted sound between a cough and hiss. “The rumors are true, then.”

“He’s ill, Nauka.” Elona dropped her arms to her sides, turning her palms up with her plea. “He needs your help. Everything Aurora has done hasn’t helped him.”

…He?

“Maybe he shouldn’t have left his island, then,” Nauka grumbled. “Perhaps the cure is a padded cell in Nyarlothep. One for each of ‘em.”

Elona’s face blanched, and she lowered her voice. “This cannot reach their ears. Think of her daughter—”

“Why should I? Aurora’s not,” Nauka snapped. “You know what she’s teaching Cannoli? Selfishness. Abandonment.” She jabbed her finger into Elona’s chest. “How to use people.”

“That’s below you,” Elona growled, swatting Nauka’s hand away.

Keke flinched and shrank behind the barrels. Her mind reeled with questions, trying to assemble the pieces of their conversation into a coherent image. She’d never heard her mother use that tone. Not with anyone.

“Let him rot, Elona. If she can’t cure him, it’s Saoirse’s will,” Nauka continued. “He shirked his obligations as a man, and those consequences shouldn’t be on any of our hands.”

“Then don’t let it be on your hands.”

Nauka scoffed. “That’d be much easier if you weren’t haunting my doorstep every goddess-damned day.”

Elona shook her head, her tail hastily ticking from side to side with agitation. “Look. You’ve taught me [Alchemy] for years. Just tell me what I need to do.”

“Turn. Them. In.” Nauka enunciated each word, spittle spraying from her lips.

“It would crush her,” Elona pleaded. “Surely your heart hasn’t withered away with the rest of you.”

“Matters of the heart are above my station.” Nauka signed her reverence to Saoirse. “And you are wasting my time. Don’t ask me again, Elona.”

Without another word, Nauka turned, snared the door of her shop, then vanished inside.

Elona stamped her foot to the ground, hands balling into fists, a snarl of frustration rumbling from her chest. Keke chewed her lip, forcing herself to stay put. She wanted to hug her mother and tell her it would be okay. That maybe he would just get better, like she and Cannoli did whenever they got sick.

“Elona?” a soft voice called behind her.

Elona spun on her heel, eyes wide with surprise. “Rael!”

Saphira’s mom. Despite being close to the same age, Keke didn’t know Saphira well. They bought their fruits and vegetables from their stand, but Saphira was always so timid and quiet.

“I… I didn’t—” Elona stammered.

Rael held up a hand and shook her head. “I overheard you talking with Nauka.”

“Oh, goddess,” Elona sighed, exasperated. “Please, Aurora’s not at fault.”

“No, I understand.” Rael’s tone was kind, her soft smile bright against her tan face. “I just wanted to offer you a piece of advice if you’ll hear it.”

“Yes, of course.”

“A dear friend of mine recently moved to Nyarlothep to study as a [Hermetic]. I believe she would be sympathetic to your cause.” Rael smoothed her hands against her apron. “It sounds like time is short. I can give you her information and write to her if you would like to seek her out.”

Elona’s eyes brightened, and she nodded. “A Third Class. Yes, please. That may be exactly what we need.”

Keke’s hands balled into fists. Aurora isn’t Questing in Nyarlothep. She’s here. She’s hiding. She thought of Cannoli, and her heart broke for her best friend. All this time, Aurora had left her behind. And Elona was protecting her. Why?

With half-hearted excuses, Elona embarked to Nyarlothep the next day, leaving Keke and Cannoli to maintain the house and her stall.

Aurora returned, heartsick and weakened—as if she hadn’t eaten for days. Keke never asked but could only assume the man she was hiding had perished.

Elona never came home.

 

Chapter 207: Words of Radiance

It took a lot of effort to hide the wound on my hand. I snuck out of Jeenie’s room early in the morning and searched out the castle’s ward, where I found a few [Priest]s residing. Jeenie’s work had done a lot to prevent permanent damage from what the [Priest] told me. With the additional healing, all I had to do was refrain from using it for a few hours, and it would be mostly back to normal. At least, normal enough that I could take the bandages off.

The muscles and bones were still sore, and I had to be careful not to move my fingers too fast, but you could hardly tell I ever punched a wall in the first place. A few knicks still draped across my knuckles, but they looked more like paper cuts than anything else.

Keke was coming down the hall when I left the washroom.

“Hey, Matt.” She offered a small wave and moved to stand before me, the heels of her boots clicking against the marble floor. “Are you doing okay?”

“Yeah,” I nodded. “Sorry if I worried you yesterday. I just needed some time to myself. Lots to think about, you know?” Keke didn’t seem convinced, but she nodded. “What have you been up to?”

“I wanted to practice my archery for a bit, so Cailu set up some targets in the arena.”

“How’d you do?”

Keke grinned. “Stationary targets are too easy. They used to be nice as a kitten when I could barely pull back the string. Now though?” A laugh escaped her lips. “With all of the Encroachers and Defiled we’ve fought, I find even the farthest stationary targets much too easy. I suppose I didn’t realize that, so I might have Jeenie set something up later.”

“Hit a few bullseyes for me,” I said as I walked past her, “I’m going to head to the other Shells for a bit.”

I made it a few feet away until she called my name. “Are you doing alright?” I stopped in my tracks. Keke continued. “I know you spend a lot of time ensuring that the rest of us are okay. But I hope the burden you’re carrying isn’t too heavy. So, like you’ve offered so many times before… talk to me if something’s amiss, okay?”

I glanced over my shoulder. “I will.” I stared down the hallway. The annoying voice in the back of my head resurfaced, and the thoughts I had the previous day came with it. I replayed what Jeenie said about the temporary nature of my situation, and the voices quieted. I turned around and gave her a genuine smile. “I’m okay. I promise. But we’re still going to be here for another couple of days, so I want to check out the rest of Rājadhānī and see how everyone’s acclimating to their new conditions.”

Keke frowned. “Those were some big words.” She seemed to realize how she came off because she quickly waved her hands in front of her. “I-I mean, sorry. I didn’t mean it in a bad way or anything, but—”

I laughed. “Keke. It’s okay. Seriously. I think Tristan’s just rubbing off on me.” I thought for a moment, gazing at the beautiful floor beneath us. “And Cailu, to some extent.”

“Now, there’s something I never thought I’d hear. You’d better not tell Ravyn.”

I chuckled and met her gaze. “Yeah, I’ll keep it on the down-low. Don’t get me wrong, he’s still a total ass, but… he does make some good points. Points I think I just didn’t want to hear, I guess.” I paused. “I’ll admit, I’m not happy about us going our separate ways for a while. But I also understand that we’re a Party. This is only temporary.”

“Only temporary,” Keke whispered just loud enough for me to hear.

“Yeah.” I breathed deep, slowly exhaling. “Alright. I’m going to get going. Maybe talk to Ai for a bit about my Class change. It’s been a while since I’ve spoken with her anyway.”

“Okay. See you later?”

“See you later, Keke. I’ll be back soon.”

I offered her a wave goodbye, then made my way down the staircase. Once outside, I followed the pathway to the main gate and out into the First Shell. I stretched my arms behind my back, glad that Keke hadn’t noticed anything about my hand. Letting them fall to the sides, I called upon the iPaw.

“Hey, Ai.”

Ai appeared in her red Ichi Island garb at the bottom of the screen, straight-faced and monotone as ever. “Hello, [User Matthew]. How may I assist you?”

“I have some questions about Second Classes,” I said as I walked toward the Second Shell. “Are you able to answer some of them?”

“I will offer any information I am able. Proceed.”

“Thanks. For starters, I’d like to know more about the [Battleguard] Class.”

“Please specify.”

I thought about it for a few seconds. Cailu had made a point to emphasize its reliance on a healer. While I could see no one else but Cannoli healing me, I had to verify that it was the truth. I phrased the question a few different ways in my head, but ultimately the best way to figure out its potential was to ask about the Class itself.

“What kind of self-sustaining options does [Battleguard] have?” I asked.

Ai went through several idle animations before she replied. “[Battleguard] has Skills which restore its own [Health Points] as it draws blood from a target with its chosen weapon.”

“Is that the only kind it has?”

“Yes.”

I glanced up from the iPaw, waving to a passing catgirl dressed in expensive white garbs. “What other defensive options does it have? Anything from shielding, protecting other Party members, etcetera.”

“[Battleguard] possesses four notable defensive Skills. One reduces the effectiveness of weapons around them for a period of time. Another reduces incoming damage when attacking. The [Battleguard] may also restore [Health Points] through the use of said Skills. Lastly, they are the only Class to possess a Skill which [Provoke]s multiple targets.” Ai blinked. “While it does not serve as a Skill, they also boast the highest [Health Points] total of any Second Class.”

This was strange. It felt like Ai was being a lot more helpful than I was used to.

“You’re giving me a lot more information than you usually do,” I said, passing through the now-open valley separating the First and Second Shells. “What’s up?”

“This is information available to you through the [Class Selection] screen. The information was not available until Class Level 10.”

And I continue to feel like an idiot.

“Thanks, Ai. That’ll be all.” I nodded to a few kittens who ran passed me, breathless and giggling.

Ai nodded, then disappeared. I pocketed the iPaw and continued on my way to the Second Shell. She hadn’t told me anything that I didn’t already know, except that the [Battleguard] didn’t sound like it had a lot of options for keeping itself alive. I found myself smiling when I pictured how Erina fought before she lost her arm and how my heart was set on becoming the same monster of a tank to protect the girls.

It felt nostalgic. It felt right.

I have to go [Battleguard]. Even if it needs a competent healer to work right, I can’t just drop my axe and learn the way of the blade. I’ve come this far with this thing; I can’t stop now.

Besides, the axe was a natural fit. Since day one, I could never picture another weapon in my hands. I mean, unless it was a bigger and better axe. Depending on the specifics, maybe I could try a greatsword at some point. The two didn’t fight too differently from what it looked like, anyway.

The Second Shell was starting to look more and more like a village and less like a resort town. Citizens from the Third Shell mingled with the Second Shell girls, apprehensive expressions glued to their features. Some were shaking, others were crying.

I happened to see Melly tending to the scraped knee of a kitten, her smile warm and bright. I smiled in turn and approached.

“Melly?”

The catgirl stopped and glanced at me over her shoulder. “Oh, Matt! Hang on just a second, okay?” She gently rubbed at the blood and peeled skin with a rag. The kid flinched and squinted her eyes while Melly worked.

She carries herself like a Triage nurse. Maybe she could be my temporary healer?

I shook my head of the thought. No, Cannoli was going to be my healer. I was sure she’d be ready as soon as I was a [Battleguard]. It would just take some time.

“You’re a brave girl, Serenity,” Melly said. “Hold this in place for a bit. I just need to have a conversation with this young man, okay?”

Serenity nodded and held the rag against her knee.

Melly brushed her hands against one another as she rose to her feet. “Sorry about that. Did you need something?”

I shook my head. “Nah. Just came to see how things were doing. Seems like you got a lot more people now.”

“Yes,” Melly said, furrowing her brow in concern. “Many of the girls are too intimidated to approach the First Shell, so they stay here and receive help from the rest of us.” Melly drew a deep breath. “It’s a lot of work but satisfying. I feel I can truly put my Skills to the test.” She shook her head. “It’s awful how many sick and malnourished people there are.”

Cailu’s voice crawled beneath the wrinkles of my brain, whispering and offering unsolicited advice. ‘Matt, if you do pursue [Battleguard], you will need to employ a capable healer.’ The thought was growing louder.

I swallowed the building lump in my throat.

Would Melly make a good healer?

Melly tilted her head. “Are you alright?”

“Yeah. Yeah, I’m fine,” I lied.

I had to future-proof my Class change somehow. In the worst-case scenario, what if Cannoli hadn’t finished on time? What if it would take her months or even years to complete her training? I had no idea what formal education looked like here.

You can’t just sit idly by and wait for Cannoli.

My hands tightened into fists. It hurt, but I couldn’t take any chances.

“Hey, Melly. I have a proposition for you.”

 

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Chapter 208: Splintered

I struggled to come up with the words. It was taking an immense amount of willpower to accept the very real possibility that Cannoli wouldn’t be in my Party anymore. It hurt like hell.

But even Keke had agreed that Cannoli might just not be cut out for it. They were like sisters. I’m sure it wasn’t said lightly.

Apparently I took too long to say anything. Melly shifted from one foot to the other beneath my gaze, her eyes darting to the side. She licked her lips and brushed her hair away from her shoulder. “Matt, I can’t exactly tell you no, but… I don’t think a kitten would be the best idea for me right now—”

“No, that’s not it.” I shook my head. “Sorry. Let me start over. Cannoli told me that she needs to spend time on her faith. Outside of my Party.”

“Oh. I’m sorry to hear that,” Melly replied, lifting her eyes.

“Yeah, me too. So I honestly don’t know if she’ll ever come back. But I want to be ready once I change to [Battleguard]... which means I need a healer.” I brushed a hand through my hair. “You’ve been great with Ceres and Lara, and clearly the rest of Rājadhānī feels the same way.” I gestured to Serenity. “I’d love it if you came with me.”

Melly’s eyes widened a fraction, and her tail flicked behind her. She chewed her lower lip and took her time to answer. “I’m flattered that you’d ask me. Really.” Glancing over her shoulder, she continued. “And if it’s what you command, I understand that I have to abide.”

Ravyn wasn’t kidding. These girls really don’t have a choice when it comes to men.

“But my city and my people need me,” she continued. “There aren’t many knowledgeable healers in the First and Second Shells, and perhaps one or two in the Third. Most of the girls know little more than basic first aid.”

I worked to keep my face neutral. She had a point, but damn, it didn’t make the rejection any easier. “I see.”

“I’m not saying no. Maybe… when you’re done with your Class change, I’ll be free to join you. Right now, though, I think me leaving the island would only hurt it more.” She clasped her hands over her skirt and bowed her head. “Please don’t misunderstand. I know full well that this is your choice to make.”

“I’m not going to force you to leave, Melly. You’re right. There are a lot of sick girls in the Third Shell that need you. It was selfish of me to ask.” Damn it.

“No, not at all. If you’d asked me two weeks ago, I would have gone with you without a second thought. Just… a lot of things have changed, you know?” Melly grinned. “I have to say, I never thought I’d be the first pick for a man’s Party.”

“Anyone would be lucky to have you.” I glanced to the side, catching Serenity’s expectant stare. She needed Melly. “In that case, what can I do to help you while I’m here?”

“Oh! Really?” Her mood brightened, and the tension seeped from her shoulders. “I don’t want to take up too much of your time!”

“Nah. I have a few days here still. I want to help.” Anything to keep my mind off of the future. Off of my Party splintering away into fragments. “Whatever you need. Just name it.”

“That would be wonderful, Matt. Thank you!” Melly reached into her [Cat Pack] and tugged free a small leather journal and a thin stick of graphite. “This has helped me more than I can say,” she said, catching my curious stare. Flipping the dark cover open, she turned to an empty page and began to write a list. “I need these ingredients for a few common potions and tinctures that I’ve noticed are rare within the Third Shell.”

“Melly?” Serenity called.

“I’ll be right there, sweetheart. Just another moment for me,” Melly replied over her shoulder before returning to her list.

“[Alchemy] ingredients?” I wondered aloud.

She nodded, not looking up from her work. “Yes. Do you practice [Alchemy]?”

“Only a little,” I admitted. “I can see if Destiny or Ravyn are free. Otherwise, I can at least help you brew.”

“Honestly, so long as you don’t mind chopping up ingredients, a second pair of hands would really speed up the process.” She carefully tore the page free from her journal and passed it to me.

“Where do I get these?” I asked, skimming over the unfamiliar ingredients. Fangs and nails of Encroachers I’d never heard of, plants I couldn’t pronounce, and any number of ingredients that could have been solid or liquid.

“The citadel keeps most, if not all, of these in their stores. I’m not sure if the castle’s [Alchemist] hung around after the duel. I haven’t seen her.” She gave an apologetic shrug. “But if you can ask Lady Naeemah or Eshe, they should be able to help you find them.”

“Yeah, sure thing. One of them should talk to me, right? I don’t think I’m all that scary.” I smiled. “Jeenie may have some of the Encroacher parts, too.”

“Oh, Jeenie talks to you?” Melly returned my smile. “She made a point to stay as far away from King Magni as possible.”

I imagined Jeenie crouched behind one of the roach cages, hissing when Magni came within thirty feet. It was way too easy to see, and the thought made me laugh. “I’ll take it as a compliment. But yeah, she talks to me.”

“That’s great! Well, as soon as you have everything, just come find me around here, and we’ll get brewing.” Melly tucked her notebook back in her pack. “Thank you again, Matt. This means a lot to me.”

“No problem, Melly. I want to keep my hands busy. See you in a bit.” I gave her a small nod, stuffed the list in my [Cat Pack], and headed back to the castle.

So much for staying away for the day.

The thought of leaving the island once again clamped around my chest. It was so damn hard to try to find the same excitement and anticipation for seeing Nyarlothep as I’d had the first few days of arriving on Ni. I’d promised Keke and Cannoli that we’d see it together. Well, we would see it together, but this wasn’t how I’d pictured it at all.

This world wasn’t what I’d pictured at all.

At least you’re helping them. Isn’t that what you wanted?

I sighed and marched back to the castle. As I passed through the First Shell, a sudden movement caught the corner of my eye. A tail of black hair and a wave of green silk disappeared inside the glass greenhouse.

Naeemah?

Well, I needed to talk to her anyway. If she decided to ignore me like she usually did, then I could check her off my list and go find Eshe and Jeenie.

I changed course for the greenhouse, passing a few catgirls carrying wicker baskets piled with dirty sheets and clothing. They smiled and greeted me warmly, and I did my best to do the same.

The shattered glass from Naeemah’s initial break-in had been swept away from the path, and it seemed that someone had removed the broken doorframe, leaving behind a rectangle of smooth glass. I caught Naeemah’s silhouette disappearing down the farthest row of plants and jogged to catch up.

Three steps down the aisle, a hand gripped my shoulder and spun me around. I nearly jumped out of my skin.

“Why are you following me?” Naeemah hissed, eyes narrowed. She still wore her [Civilian Mode] dress but had a dagger clasped in her hand.

I raised my empty hands to my sides. “Jesus. I come in peace.”

She frowned.

“Sorry. I—” I began to lower my hand to my pack, and she raised the dagger. I froze. “—I have an [Alchemy] shopping list that Melly said you could help me with.”

Lowering the blade, she nodded.

I retrieved the paper and held it out for her.

She accepted it, and her frown deepened as she looked it over. “Eshe can help you with this.”

I shrugged. “I saw you come in here and figured I’d take my chances. Didn’t mean to interrupt anything.”

She passed it back. “The medicinal ingredient stores are in the healing ward of the citadel. I understand you’re familiar with the [Priest]s there. They can help you.”

It was my turn to frown. “How do you know that?”

“It’s part of my role as Queen. No Bell, service, or trade is exchanged without my knowledge.” She strode down the row of thin, bushy-leaved trees with ruby blossoms the size of my hand. She’d turned away from me, but it felt like she had eyes in the back of her head, always watching. “Will that be all?”

Why do you seem more upset than usual? It didn’t seem like the place to ask. Well, okay, maybe a part of me was more worried that her blade would disappear inside my chest if I dared to question her. “You know, I have been wondering. When we first got here, why did you break down the door?” I motioned behind me to the greenhouse’s opening.

Naeemah rested her hands behind her, back perfectly straight, shoulders squared, chin held high. Everything about her read ‘Queen’ with a capital Q. She pursed her lips, studying one of the flowers in silence.

Just as I was ready to give up and go, she replied, “There are dozens of methods and hundreds of years of farming and [Harvesting] cataloged on Ichi Island. Beyond the unprecedented sugar shortage, I have always fed my people on the gifts from the sands.” She fingered a long, red petal. “Not a single plant, spice, or flower in this structure is native to Ichi Island. They were all imported at a premium.”

“Trade keeps each of the islands going though, right?” I asked. This was definitely more of Tristan and Cailu’s area.

“It does. And in time, I will have the door repaired.” Naeemah plucked the flower away from its tree. She spun it between her fingers, and the stem caught fire, petals enveloped by flames.

I stepped back, surprised. Wasn’t sure if that was just a quirk of the flower or if Naeemah was casting Magic outside of [Combat Mode].

“However,” she spoke through gritted teeth, spreading the ashes to the dirt, “this building is another act of unneeded extravagance. Bells and resources that should have been allocated to every citizen in every corner of this island.”

Yeah. Okay. I probably would have done the same thing. “I see your point.” I tried to think of how to transition the conversation and failed. “Thanks for humoring me. I’ll leave you be.”

“Hold on, Matt.” Her expression softened, though she didn’t look at me. “Thank you.”

For…? But a reason never came. I had too many things to think about anyway, and I didn’t want to press her. “You’re welcome.”

I left the greenhouse without another word, returning to my hunt for ingredients.

Between the [Priest]s and a giddy Jeenie, I managed to scrape everything together. Had to borrow an extra [Cat Pack] from the ward to bring it all to Melly, but it made it easier than carrying them in multiple trips or a giant sack.

I found Melly tending to another kitten with a cut on her forehead. She smiled when she saw me.

“How many days did you say you have left?” she asked.

“Three, I think,” I replied, handing her the extra pack.

“Great. I’ll take up as much of your time as you’ll give me.” Melly picked through the [Cat Pack] and pulled out a bottle with swirling blue liquid inside. “I’ll throw three meals a day and a comfortable bed into the bargain if it sweetens the deal.”

There was an unmistakable trace of understanding in her tone. She’d read me like a book. And I’d be lying if I said I wasn’t grateful.

“That sounds great, Melly. Thanks.”

“Don’t mention it.” Ruffling the kitten’s hair between her ears, her smile widened. “Let’s get to work.”

 

A note from DoubleBlind


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Chapter 209: Witchshadow

A break from the castle was just what I needed. And hey, besides, being out of the castle for a while gave me an excuse to learn more about [Alchemy].

The conversation I shared with Keke was brief and a bit awkward initially, but I couldn’t hide anything from her. Despite my poor attempts to hide the truth, Keke was no less wise than Melly concerning my situation. In the middle of helping Melly, Keke sought me out, gave me a peck on the cheek, and offered to be a shoulder if I needed her.

For the next three days, I worked as Nurse Matt. The first day was the busiest. I’ll admit, I could never do what Melly does. Seemed to me that caring for the patient’s emotional state was just as important as tending to the wound.

Thinking back on it, Ceres was invaluable when she hung around my bedside. She didn’t even have to do much. Just knowing that she cared and kept a watchful eye over me was good enough. I couldn’t imagine it was much different for the people in the Third Shell.

Most Third Shell residents had taken notice that the wall was still in disarray and that the Ejderha were not returning. So many of them looked so scared to walk into the Second Shell, and my heart went out to them.

I had to hope our Parties weren’t partially responsible for their fear. But I wasn’t about to walk up to them and ask what their opinion was on us. Best to leave well enough alone.

“Keep stirring, Matt,” Melly cautioned with a gentle hand over mine. “Just not too fast, okay? It can easily fizz over if you’re too aggressive with it.”

We continued the stirring motion together for a few more seconds until she steadily drew away from me. I continued to stir the concoction until it turned the baby-blue color Melly was looking for. Reminded me of how a parent would guide their kid on a bike, then let go. Luckily, unlike my unfortunate bike crashes as a child, this came naturally.

“Hey, I got it!” With the stir stick still held between two fingers, I drew back, impressed with my work. I was getting better with this each and every time. Part of me wondered if my affinity for video games had anything to do with my dexterous motions. Probably not. “Heck yeah!”

“Good job, Matt!” said Melly. “Now, take it off the heat just like I showed you.”

“Right.” I grabbed the tongs beside me and used them to set the container on the table. “Sorry, could you remind me when we cork it?”

“Three minutes.” Melly had returned to her side of the table with a beaker and flame of her own. I had to admire her dedication to her craft. Not once while she worked did she ever look at me. Her attention remained glued to the bottle at all times. “You’re a quick learner. Has anyone ever told you that?”

Uhh, I don’t think so. If anything, I hear the opposite.

“No, not really.” The mist bubbling from my concoction was beginning to disappear.

“Well, you are. [Alchemy] isn’t a very popular craft, but it’s a necessary one.” Melly plucked a few nettles from a bowl beside her and set them on a chopping board. Retrieving one of the sharpest-looking cooking knives I’d ever seen, she chopped them into fine pieces. Her movements mirrored those I’d seen of professional chefs. “Many aren’t willing to put in the proper time required to see it bear fruit.”

“Why do you think that is?” I asked, crossing my arms. “It’s practical as hell.”

“It can feel like nothing but diminishing returns sometimes. Especially if you’re trying to learn it on your own.” She smiled. “It’s good to have a teacher.” A stain where Melly had diced the nettles had appeared on her cutting board. I wasn’t super great at it yet, but thinking back to what Shizen taught me regarding different plants, I wondered if there was something more to the style of slicing the herbs that helped in the potion’s edibility.

“Why do you cut them like that?” Melly looked at me briefly, then glanced at the bottle heating under the flame.

“Why not?”

She mouthed something to herself, then said, “Uhm, so there are two reasons. One is that it makes the potion easier to swallow.”

Ha! Nailed it!

“The other,” Melly continued, “is that the thorn has these tiny buds inside. I… well, dang it. I’d show you, but—”

“They’re all cut up now,” I chuckled.

“Eheheh. Yeah, and I don’t want to waste any. Desert opals are rare enough as is.” Melly flushed when my face fell. “N-not that you wasted it! You’re learning. Anyway, tiny buds lie within the nettle. The tough outer shell protects the pods, so you need a very sharp knife to puncture it without it splattering everywhere.”

Melly raised the blade and retrieved a sheet of paper off to the side. “Watch.” With the blade’s edge held upward, she guided the sheet over it, and the knife effortlessly cut through the paper until the two pieces floated away from her onto the floor. “This is my best knife.”

Hot damn, I would hate to be on the receiving end of that thing.

“Wow.” It seemed to me [Alchemy] was a craft someone could spend years practicing if they put their mind to it. “Having the proper tools must be expensive though, right?”

“Yes,” Melly nodded. “Thankfully, I never wanted for such things.” Her lips formed a thin, pensive line. “If I’m being honest, it’s nice to be needed again.”

“Again?” I frowned. “What do you mean?”

Please don’t tell me another tragic Ichi Island story.

“My mother passed away a couple of years ago.”

Oh, god damn it.

“I’m sorry to hear that,” I said as I glanced back at my beaker.

“Don’t be,” Melly said, her smile returning. “She lived a full life. One she could be proud of. She passed away peacefully in her sleep.”

What a relief. The last thing I needed to hear right now was that Magni threw her into a cage, or she became an Ejderha, or something like that. “I’m glad you had a good relationship with her.”

“Thanks, Matt. Me too.”

I was honestly having a great time learning more [Alchemy], and it kept me out of my own head for a while. We worked quietly until we’d both finished cutting.

“This… may sound like a silly question,” Melly stammered suddenly, “but do men have mothers?”

It took everything I had not to laugh. It reminded me of a meme I’d seen years ago about girls becoming pregnant from holding hands. The innocence of her question had me sucking in my lips.

“They do,” I replied.

“Ahh, that must’ve been nice.”

“Where do you think we come from?” I asked, catching my breath.

“Saoirse’s gifts to Nyarlea. So, in a way, we believe Saoirse to be your mother.” Melly hesitated. “It’s a shame catgirls can’t give birth to men.”

“Any idea why that is?” The mist had cooled away from my container, so I grabbed two oven mitts I’d set aside from the kitchen. Carefully cradling the glass, I carried it to the table behind me.

“That’s like asking me why I can’t fly,” Melly laughed. “If you read Saoirse’s Decrees, giving birth to a man is high above a catgirl’s station.”

“Hm. Where I came from, there was a fifty-fifty chance of a boy or a girl being born if a woman got pregnant.” I frowned as the words left my mouth. The bizarre nature of the conversation was not lost on me. But hey, at least I didn’t blush at the talk of sex anymore.

“That’s strange,” Melly mused. Glass clinked, and the cutting of herbs sounded from behind me. “That makes no sense to me why a boy… I’m assuming that’s a small man, yes?”

Small man. What a term. “Yeah, I guess so,” I said, half-laughing. “Boys are what men are before they’re, er, well, men. Like kittens into catgirls.”

A pause followed. “That other man following you. The—” she raised her hand equal to her eyes, “—petite one. He is a man, right? Not a boy?”

Ouch. Sorry, Tristan.

“Yeah, full-blooded man. As true as they come.” A series of small jars rested in a small alcove carved into the wall’s stone. I grabbed five of them and set them to the right of the beaker.

“Boy. Boy, boy, boy.” Melly repeated it as if it were a new word she was trying to add to her vocabulary. “Huh.”

I guess it’s been a while since I’ve had a talk like this. Kinda nice, actually.

“That’s so weird,” Melly hummed in a lower tone. “Men being born as children. I could never imagine such a thing.”

“Is it really so hard to picture?” I asked. “Just imagine me,” I turned around for effect, one of the empty jars in my hand, “and picture me about half this size. That’s a boy.” I returned to the containers and began to carefully fill each one with the substance I’d made only minutes earlier. The consistency and thickness reminded me a lot of milk. As long as I was slow, it wouldn’t splash, either. “This looks awful to drink,” I muttered.

“What was that?” Melly asked.

“Just wondering how this stuff tastes.”

“Not great.” Melly giggled. “I have to say, women giving birth to boys is such a strange concept to me. I always wondered if the death of one man meant that Saoirse simply births another.”

I don’t think that’s too far from the truth in this world.

“So, if men come from mothers like catgirls do, then does that mean that you had a mother?” Melly’s question froze me on the spot.

“Yeah.” I’d nearly forgotten about her, and as my mother's grating voice returned to my mind, I shook it away.

“What was she like?”

“We weren’t close.” Pulling open a drawer beneath the table, I procured a leather belt. Pouches lined the strap from one end to the other. They were the perfect size for small bottles like the ones I’d just filled. After corking the tiny jars, I filled five of the pouches. They were snug but not overly so. I imagined something like this being invaluable to combat [Alchemist]s.

I wonder if Destiny needs one?

“Sorry if that’s a sensitive subject,” Melly said when I didn’t add anything else. At some point, she’d completed her own batch of Chloro Potion. It looked mostly like mine, baby blue with a thick consistency. Though hers was a bit darker in color.

“It’s not your fault.” I twisted the belt between my fingers. “It sounds like you miss your mom quite a bit.”

“I do. Very much so,” she admitted.

“Is your grandmother still around?” I buttoned the tops over each bottle and began my way over to a counter in the corner of the room where we’d agreed to put the supplies.

“Granny Nauka moved away a long time ago. I don’t know where she is anymore. Sending and receiving letters on Ichi hasn’t been reliable for years. ”

I stopped dead in my tracks. The name drop had nearly caused me to drop the belt.

No. I misheard that. It’s a coincidence.

“Sorry. One more time,” I said, slowly turning to face her. “Who?”

“Oh, dear. I’m mumbling again.” She laughed nervously. “Granny Nauka—that is, my grandmother—she moved away a long time ago.” Melly shook her head. “She disagreed with where the island was heading. I haven’t heard from her since I was a kitten.”

It can’t be. Right?

Matt has gained: 2 Levels of [Alchemy]!

Matt has learned a new [Alchemy] recipe!

 

A note from DoubleBlind


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---

Chapter 210: The Last Wish

“I’ll have you know that I had to call all hands on deck for your project here,” Ikrele grumbled, smoothing a hand over a polished silver breastplate. “Well, the ones left, anyway.”

“I appreciate your attentiveness to my commission,” Cailu replied. He leaned over the counter, inspecting the matching gauntlets while he compared them to Ceres’ measurements listed in the iPaw. They seemed so small and delicate when held against the metal plates around his own forearms. “You followed my instructions exactly?”

Ikrele narrowed her eyes and crossed her arms. “Not a whisker out of place, king killer.”

Cailu frowned. “Typically, artisans will flatter their clients if they wish to receive a gratuity.” He let the gauntlet rest near its breastplate and moved to inspect Matt’s armor.

Even he had to admit the craftsmanship on each piece was immaculate. Not a single stitch skipped or loose seam. The plate was hammered and polished to perfection. Every material used would have cost a fortune in Nyarlothep.

Ikrele barked a laugh. “I doubt me or any of the girls here could sweet talk those extra Bells out of your pack, Cailu. You aren’t that kind of person.”

“And you presume to know what kind of person I am?” Cailu didn’t bother to meet her gaze.

She scratched her head just behind the ear and stared him down with a wry, toothy grin. “You and me have been stuck in this world for a long time. It’s written all over your face. You’re out of patience for this shit. Just like I am.”

“Perhaps.” Cailu worked to keep his tone even.

“Hey. Look. It wouldn’t kill you to loosen up a little,” Ikrele said, lifting Cannoli’s dress and folding it with expert hands and perfect creases. “Life’s too short.”

And yet it takes so long. “Your advice is… noted.”

“Good enough.” Ikrele rolled her eyes and moved on to the next dress—Ravyn’s—folding it with the same level of care. “Get your Bells out, and I’ll get these packed up.”

As he counted the hefty sum where Ikrele could clearly watch, her words plagued him.

When had he lost his ability to maintain a neutral expression?

After asking one First Shell resident and two in the second, Cailu found Matt in a building thick with alchemic haze. The bitter smell of desert opals wafted from the common room, where Matt and the young woman who had taken in Ceres and Lara—Melly, if memory served—worked at a narrow table with a dozen jars and bottles framing its surface.

Melly murmured something as she sliced open another desert opal with deft fingers, and Matt chuckled.

Matt looked up with Cailu's footsteps, and his smile faltered. “Hey, Cailu.”

Melly's eyes darted to Cailu's face, and her ears flattened against her head. She avoided his gaze and offered him a quick bow.

“Good evening, Matt.” Cailu shifted the bundles of armor under his arm. Matt glanced at them curiously but remained silent. “Practicing [Alchemy] is an excellent use of your time.”

Matt set his jaw. “Thanks. Melly's a great teacher.”

Melly hummed an unintelligible reply.

“What did you need, Cailu?” Matt asked, his words sharp. “Another fun-filled family dinner?”

Cailu shook his head. “I understand that your situation is turbulent—”

Matt sputtered a short, incredulous laugh.

“—However, we should leave tomorrow at first light,” Cailu finished, ignoring Matt's response. It will hurt no matter how long we delay our departure.

Setting his knife aside, Matt laid his hands on the table, balling them into fists. He rocked on the balls of his feet, then nodded. “Sure. If you say so.”

“I also need you to disperse these amongst your Party.” Cailu moved a series of flasks aside, clearing enough room on the table for all five packages.

Matt raised an eyebrow. “What are they?”

“Armor for you, Keke, Ceres, Ravyn, and Cannoli.” Cailu lifted the lid on the box containing Matt’s. “It will last you well into your Second Classes.”

Matt blinked. His attention flickered to the cloth in Cailu’s hands, then back to Cailu’s face. “I don’t have the Bells for all of that.”

“I know. Which is why I paid for it,” Cailu continued slowly. “I task you with having new weapons crafted for all of them as soon as possible.”

“I don’t want to owe you anything, Cailu,” Matt snapped. “Shit’s hard enough as it is.”

Cailu covered the package and drummed his fingers across the top. “The only repayment I need is for you to stay alive.”

Matt’s expression darkened, and they stared each other down in tense silence.

“U-um, excuse me for asking,” Melly murmured, then pointed to the boxes. “B-but, if Matt didn’t know about this, how did you know their measurements?”

Matt shook his head. “That’s true. Is this going to fit?”

Cailu sighed. Perhaps you should take the time to browse your iPaw, boy. “When an armorer or tailor fits you or any members of your Party, the measurements are logged in your [Equipment] screen.”

“Is that a ‘Second Class only’ thing?” Matt asked.

“No. However, viewing another man’s information and Party statistics is. Ai can guide you to the correct window.” Cailu folded his arms over his chest. “I digress. You may spend your night—” he glanced at Melly, “—doing whatever you please. Be ready to leave in the morning.”

Melly turned a furious shade of red and ducked her head, hiding her face behind her hair.

Matt lay a hand on Melly’s shoulder and glowered at Cailu. “Will you ever stop looking at them like mindless pieces of meat?”

Cailu frowned. “You misunderstand—”

“No, Cailu. The only thing I don’t understand is how Naeemah put up with you for so long,” Matt growled.

Anger bubbled in Cailu’s chest, and heat consumed his throat. “Matt, you do not—”

“Thanks for the armor. I’ll make sure my girls get it,” Matt interrupted. “Come on, Melly. We need more supplies.” He turned his back on Cailu and marched down the hallway.

“Okay,” Melly squeaked.

“Matt!” Cailu barked.

Matt clasped both hands into fists on either side of his head and raised his middle fingers.

What is this, now? More nonsense from Matt’s previous world, surely.

With a quick bow to Cailu, Melly said, “I’m sorry. Excuse me,” and scuttled away to join Matt.

Regaining his composure, Cailu ran a hand through his hair and exited the dwelling.

Matt seemed consumed by attachment to any catgirl he encountered. Even Yomi, who had so profoundly betrayed him, fell beneath his protection.

Why? Why cling to such otiose idealisms that would only end in grief?

He reached into his [Cat Pack], touching the drawing of Naeemah that Tristan had given him.

But then, do I deserve to question him?

Staring into the afternoon sun, he considered his final tasks before he could consider them ready to leave.

Tristan would be easily found within the citadel or in the dining hall at supper time. Cailu could warn him to be ready soon enough and find any final possible leads on Magni’s ‘book.’

He pulled the drawing free, studying the dark, judgmental gaze that stared back.

There was one other person he needed to speak with before their departure.

As soon as Cailu knocked on the polished wooden doors, his heart sped. He cursed under his breath.

“Come in,” Naeemah called.

Cailu pressed against the door and stepped inside.

The twin sofas had been pushed to the right to make way for a gilded writing desk. Leather tomes were splayed open across the desk’s surface while Naeemah perched at the center, comparing the page her quill was posed over to the others. She glanced up when Cailu entered, then dropped her gaze to continue her work.

“Forgive my intrusion,” Cailu said, closing the door behind him. “I know we have been… distant these last few days.”

“Did you come to tell me you’re leaving?” Naeemah asked, eyes still fixated on the book. “You have my blessing.”

Cailu’s chest tightened with her facile dismissal. This was the kind of treatment he expected from Nehalennia and her court. Not Naeemah.

Naeemah has tried to reach out, and I have struck her down each and every time. This is the treatment I deserve.

Cailu knew he should leave it at that. A short, simple parting between them ensured their safety and his continuous protection of Nyarlea.

But this is not how I want to leave you…

I… don’t want to leave you, Naeemah.

It took five steps to close the distance. Five steps that conveyed more than words.

Naeemah carefully laid her quill beside the book, and with an unsteady hand, Cailu twined his fingers with hers.

She studied their clasped hands, then whispered, “Cailu, what are you afraid of?”

Cailu hesitated. “When you first asked me that question, I thought my answer was you, Naeemah.” He focused on an empty page, letting his honesty spill free. “I find that, in truth, it is not you I fear. It is me.”

Naeemah rose to her feet, black silks shifting like the sands around her ankles and the tiny medallions on her top clinking together. She leveled his gaze, harnessing the same intense pride he’d always known in her. “Why?”

The answer was simple, yet caught in his throat. An admission that could destroy them both. The last thing he wanted was to patronize her, but like as not, his words and thoughts held an immense amount of sway in this world.

Naeemah lifted her hand, laying her palm against his chin before stroking the line of his cheek with her thumb. “Tell me why.”

Her close proximity and intense gaze tore down the fortress he’d constructed around his heart brick by brick. “I am afraid of the end, Naeemah. Of being unable to uphold my duties or find satisfaction in this world anymore. I find that I can no longer hide my emotions or reactions from others.” He leaned into her touch, relishing her cool skin on his face. “I can no longer hide how I feel for you.”

“In this, you are not alone.” Naeemah squeezed their entwined hands. “Saoirse be damned, Cailu. I love you.”

“Those are words that will kill us both” Cailu tilted his forehead forward, touching hers. I shouldn’t…

“All our years together, and you believe I would let our conversation escape these walls?” She drew her hand away, then snaked her arms around his neck as she leaned her lithe body against his.

We shouldn’t…

“Walls have eyes and ears, Naeemah. You know this as well as I.” The scent of her was intoxicating. Logic warred with longing. No matter how loud the warning, he couldn’t push her away.

“Mhm,” she hummed, looking up at him.

There are people in this world that care about you.

Cailu kissed Naeemah before he could second-guess himself. She immediately reciprocated, her tongue dancing between his lips and her tail curling around his thigh. It was a needy embrace that continually fed into one another like timber to a fire. His heart raced, and his skin was alight with the taste of her. He’d nearly forgotten how such a genuine connection could feel.

Naeemah pulled away with a gasp and leaned her forehead against his chest. With a giggle entirely unlike her, she said, “I can’t have a kitten. Not right now.”

“Thank goodness kissing is chaste,” he quipped, stroking a hand through her hair.

“We both know where this leads,” Naeemah murmured.

Cailu tipped her chin up, searching her face. Her gaze glittered with worry. “Then allow me to return when you are ready. Or, perhaps, before then. When I am ready.”

Surprise replaced the concern in her eyes. “Cailu…”

“Only if you still desire it,” Cailu added. “I understand I have not made this easy.”

“That’s just your nature,” she teased. “Of course I still want you here.”

“Then it is settled.” The tenderness in their touch felt foreign and unpracticed but not unwelcome. “If another man like Magni appears, I give you permission to dispatch him. I will put it in writing if I must.”

Her laugh was like music to his ears. “You have my word.”

“And you my trust.” Cailu’s yearning for her kiss prodded at his heart. The taste of her lingered on his tongue. He pictured her in their many shared baths, dressed in nothing but steam. His hands slid to her bare waist, and he memorized the feel of her skin. The sight of Naeemah’s breaths speeding with the rise and fall of her chest made it nigh impossible to stop there. “I will miss you.”

“I’ll be waiting,” she breathed.

Cailu chanced one last kiss, his heartbeat throbbing against his skin. He broke away before it escalated to a stage they would both regret.

She understood the same, withdrawing her arms and taking a seat at her desk. A pink flush hued her cheeks, and a knowing smile played at her lips. “Write to me?”

“Of course.” Cailu straightened his hair and tunic, then moved to leave. With one last look at Naeemah, he closed the door to her room.

 

Chapter 211: Un Verano Sin Ti

I rubbed my face with both hands, stealing gasps of bittersweet air through my fingers. Why was everything out of Cailu’s mouth a goddamned shot at me?

“‘I need for you to stay alive,’” I mimicked quietly. I’m sure to Melly I sounded like a kitten throwing a tantrum and, as the next flask I picked up shattered in my grip, I’m sure I looked like one, too.

“Matt! Are you okay?” Melly danced around my back, then delicately searched my hand for cuts.

“Sorry. I’ll pay for that,” I grumbled, pulling a small shard free from a shallow cut near my thumb. Good job, Kelmer. First your knuckles, now this. At this rate, Erina will have a one-armed student in no time.

“No, don’t worry about it! Really, there are plenty,” Melly assured me, skipping to a cabinet against the wall and scouring through wicker baskets for a bandage. “Let’s get you patched up.”

“It’s not that bad.” I sucked at the cut, hardly feeling the sting of pain reverberating into my wrist. Squatting low to the floor, I carefully picked up the larger pieces of glass and tossed them into a nearby trash bin.

Melly returned to my side, pulling my hand from my mouth before dabbing it with a damp cloth. “You don’t want an infection, remember?”

“Yeah.”

For the second time that week, I watched as another person cleaned and wrapped a self-sustained injury. Maybe it was Melly’s questions about my parents, but faded memories of my dad breaking plates and punching holes in the wall resurfaced. I never wanted to be like that. Ever. I have to get this under control. “Melly, seriously, I’m sorry.”

Melly shook her head as she secured the bandage, the pink tips of her green hair tickling her cheeks. “It’s just a flask. What’s important is that you’re okay.” She bent down to help me sweep away the tiny glass shards that were barely visible on the tile floor. “Does he always talk to you like that?”

“Always,” I sighed. “‘Matt, why have you not mastered [Alchemy] yet?’ ‘Matt, it has been three days, now. You should be Third Class.’ It’s nonstop.”

“But then he buys all of that armor.” She wrinkled her brow. “If Ikrele made those sets, they’re each worth a fortune.”

“Right? I want to believe he’s trying to help. I really do. One second he’s shelling out thousands of Bells to help me and my girls stay safe. The next, he’s telling me how fucking stupid I am for wanting to keep the same people in my Party. It’s his way or the highway.”

Melly’s ears perked. “I’m sorry, his way or the what?”

Oh. Right. “Like I have to follow in his shadow exactly or he’ll make an example of me.” I waved a hand across the air, picturing a lit marquee above a theater. “Come see the weakest asshole in all of Nyarlea! Matt Kelmer!”

“I don’t think anyone believes that, Matt. Not even Cailu,” Melly countered. She stood and brushed her hands against her apron, the gold bracelets around her wrists jingling as they fell together. “I was only a kitten when Naeemah left, but I remember the other girls talking about him. A person who didn’t care for others wouldn’t bring Naeemah home and duel the one obstacle standing in her way. He wouldn’t buy five sets of armor for someone else’s Party.”

So, what, this is tough love? “If he cared, he wouldn’t look at you like a piece of ass.” She flinched. I chewed my tongue. Real smooth, Kelmer. “Too harsh. My bad.” I stood and touched Melly’s clean dressing.

Melly gave a half-hearted laugh, though it didn’t reach her eyes. “You know, Granny Nauka used to say that all men were only here to chase our tails. I never really understood what she meant. Why would anyone want to chase our tails?” She took her pink-tipped tail in her hands, smoothing the ends between her fingers. “What you said makes a lot more sense.”

The sadness in Melly’s voice and the listless way she touched her tail tore at my heart. I turned and pulled her into a tight hug. She squeaked in surprise but quickly relaxed and wrapped her arms around my back.

“Fuck what Cailu and Nauka think. You’ve been the best friend and teacher a guy could ask for,” I said, cradling her head against my chest. “If there’s anything I can do to repay you, just tell me.”

“This is nice. And warm.” She giggled. “I’ve enjoyed my time with you. But there is one thing I’d like you to do.”

“Name it.”

She drew away and blinked at me with wide green eyes. “Don’t let your girls go without telling them how much they matter to you.”

I flushed. I wanted to argue, but I was the one avoiding them for three days. Doing everything in my power to distance myself before the true split happened.

“Hey. It’s important that they know,” Melly added gently. “I can see it, but everyone needs a little encouragement once in a while.”

I nodded. “Yeah. You’re right.” I squeezed her shoulders and smiled. “Thanks, Melly.”

“You’re welcome. Now, go get packed. You should head back to the citadel.” She cupped her hands around mine. “They’ll be waiting for you.”

I figured the armor handouts would be as good a time as any to visit my girls. Honestly, we’d have a long ride back to the port in Kandota and a slow boat to Nyarlothep to talk about what happened from here. And, for the most part, I wasn’t worried about Keke, Ravyn, and Ceres during our time apart.

Melly was right. I didn’t want Cannoli and my final conversation to be about her need for a pilgrimage. We’d been carefully distancing ourselves from one another, and that had to end now.

Another idea hit me. One that required a little help from a certain [Hunter], and I’m not exactly proud to say what I traded for it. But I got what I was looking for out of the exchange.

I found Cannoli kneeling on a balcony on the second floor, hands clasped at her chest and head bowed. A silk rug patterned in blue and silver loops and swirls was spread beneath her, and a bowl with lit incense rested in the upper right corner. Buttons lay curled up and asleep to her left.

Maybe I shouldn’t interrupt her.

But if I didn’t do this now, then when? Just keep putting it off until it was too late?

“Cannoli?” I said gently. “Can I borrow you for a few?”

Her ears flickered forward, and she turned her head to face me, eyes slowly blinking as if awakening from a trance. Her gaze was steady and sure. Where was that bright light I’d come to associate with her? “Sorry, Matt. I’m busy.”

“I know. It won’t take long,” I assured her, clinging to the last fragments of my confidence. “We have to leave at first light, and I don’t know when we’ll get another chance alone.”

Cannoli frowned and studied me for a long time. Like she was trying to figure out if it would be worth it.

Don’t give her up without a fight, Matt.

“Alright,” she agreed at last.

I sighed in relief.

Cannoli scooped Buttons into both hands, moving him to her shoulder. He yawned and stretched, taking his favorite perch at the curve of her neck. She smoothed her skirt over her knees and stood, pacing barefoot from the rug, past me, then into the hallway. “What is it?”

I grinned. “Come with me.”

The tiniest spark of curiosity slid into her gaze. The Cannoli I knew and adored was still in there, and it gave me hope. She gestured with one hand. “After you.”

I led her downstairs and out to the Encroacher-filled courtyard. She paused at the door, sliding on a pair of slippers before stepping onto the pitch.

“Matt, what’s this about?” Annoyance crept into her tone.

“Almost there, promise.”

I fished the key Jeenie lent me from my [Cat Pack]. She’d promised to bring the cage forward and disappear for a few hours, and the lack of her manic giggling was good enough for me.

“Here, let me hold Buttons,” I said, holding out a hand.

Cannoli eyed it suspiciously. Buttons did the same. “Why?”

Come on, Buttons. I bought you, for Christ’s sake. “I’ll give him right back.”

With one more leering glare at my hand, Cannoli lifted Buttons from her shoulder and passed him to me.

I opened the front pocket of my green jacket and held Buttons close to it. “Just hang in here, little guy. Won’t be long.”

Buttons gave me another incredulous look.

Seriously, dude? “I put a few peanuts in there.”

That did the trick. Buttons hopped head-first into my pocket in search of his favorite treat. I chuckled and went to the cage’s door.

“Matt—” Cannoli began.

“I wouldn’t bring you here unless I knew you’d like it, right?” I asked, sliding the key into the lock.

She crossed her arms over her chest. “I guess.”

“Do you trust me?”

That answer took a lot longer. Her weight shifted from one foot to the other. She looked from me to the cage, then back to me.

Come on, Cannoli. Please.

Puffing her cheeks out, she whispered, “…Yes.”

Relief flooded my veins. I hadn’t realized how badly I’d needed to hear it. I had to blink away the flush of emotions assaulting my face as I unlocked the cage. I swung the door open and held a hand out to her. “Come with me, then.”

Her expression softened. She hesitated, then reached her arm forward, resting her delicate hand in mine. That single touch could have crossed an ocean.

I led her inside the cage and closed the door. My surprise was huddled in a sleeping throng in the shade of the cage, shaped like an enormous dark lump. I snapped my fingers, and six tiny, fluffy heads jolted awake. Two yawned. The other four stretched and skittered forward.

Cannoli gasped, cupping her mouth with both hands. Her ruby eyes burst to life, glittering with adorable adoration. It was like watching every tarnished layer poured over her in our travels melt away.

“Well, hello there!” She giggled, kneeling down between three of the fluffpuffs. One placed its paws in her lap, and she leaned forward. It sniffed at the tip of her nose, then licked it. “You are so cute!”

I grinned and took a seat against the bars. I didn’t want to ruin this. I wasn’t stupid; I knew this couldn’t last forever. But if for even five minutes Cannoli could be herself again, could pretend like I never broke her heart, that would be enough.

She stroked the back of one and gently touched the pompom on another’s tail. They made light chittering noises as they circled and sniffed her. Like a bunch of ground squirrels. A miniature one—probably a newborn—made a game of chasing the tip of Cannoli’s wagging tail.

Jeenie had expanded on fluffpuff physiology when she’d handed over the key. When threatened, fluffpuffs emitted some kind of pheromone that calmed both people and other species of roaches within a five-foot radius. A little like having a glass of wine. It was a great defense mechanism, she said, since it gave them time to escape. But it wasn’t harmful, and there were no lasting side effects.

Cannoli looked at me with a wide smile, her cheeks pink and her eyes sparkling. I memorized her expression, swearing to keep it close even if we were far apart. “Matt! They’re so cute!”

“They are,” I said, returning her smile. “Careful, you’ll end up bringing the whole family with us.”

“I wish,” she said, breathless. “It’s like petting a cloud!”

Gone were the distanced gaze and cautionary stare. Just pure, unbridled joy.

I stood and moved closer to her. One of the fluffpuffs scampered up to me, then hopped in my lap. It circled my legs like a cat before curling to rest. Whether it was the green ferret or Cannoli’s smile, the weight in my chest began to lift.

“I brought you out here to tell you something,” I began. I wished I could have let the words die in my throat, but then we’d be back to where we started.

Touches of the cold mask she’d worn lately framed her expression. “What’s that?”

“I’m sorry for my part in all of this. I know we won’t always agree on everything. And I understand why you’re choosing to find Saoirse,” I continued, scratching the fluffpuff between the ears.

Cannoli’s voice echoed in my head. Scritch it, Matt!

“You deserve to know how much you mean to me. Beyond Levels and combat and Quests. Just hearing you laugh, seeing your smile, being blessed by your ridiculous [Cooking] Skill. You have made my hardest days bearable and the impossible possible.”

Cannoli in her pajamas, bouncing around her room, excited for us to cuddle together. I just really want to be close to you right now.

Cannoli’s face in the firelight; the taste of her lips in the chill desert evening.

I pressed the bandage against my eyes. God damn it, this was hard. “I just want to tell you that no matter what happens, there will always be a place for you in my life and in my Party. Whatever it is you need from me, just say the word.”

She swallowed, blinking against watery eyes. Stroking one of the fluffpuffs, she nodded. Her voice lowered, just audible over the chittering around her. “Thank you, Matt. I… I really needed to hear that.”

“I mean every word.”

“I know.” She smiled through her tears. “I trust you.”

I leaned my head against the bars and stared up at the fraction of sky I could see behind the cage’s ceiling. I was willing myself not to cry again. We’d done the tearful farewell. I wanted this to be a good memory for us both.

The chittering escalated as Cannoli shifted closer to me, then gently pushed the fluffpuff off of my legs. She positioned herself in my lap, knees tucked beneath my crossed legs and her head against my chest. I curled my arms around her and held her close.

The fluffpuffs surrounded us in a warm, fluffy circle. We stayed like that for a long time—long enough for some of the critters to fall back asleep, and their whistling snores joined the quiet chittering.

Even if it was just a couple of hours, it was enough.

 

Chapter 212: Hermoso Cariño

The next morning was a swingset of emotions. I fought hard not to let it show on my face. One moment I’d be chipper and excited for our trip to Nyarlothep, and the next came the battering thoughts of leaving my girls behind for who knew how long.

Easy there. Remember, it’s not like this is goodbye. It’s more like a ‘see ya later,’ Kelmer.

Breakfast was the typical fare, albeit a bit more lively than usual. The sun still hadn’t peaked over the horizon, and at Cailu’s suggestion, I stopped eating once I was satiated. Not that I really had the appetite to stuff myself, anyway.

Cailu’s expressions came off more human than usual. Well, about as human as a statue can be, I guess. He still used that same holier-than-thou language, and it still sounded like he was talking down to me. But I swore I saw the faintest hint of a smile on his face.

“So, what’s our plan?” I asked, shoveling a spoonful of soup into my mouth. It had a strange taste—like someone decided to make a broth from a cactus and lemons. The bite-sized lumps of didrilla within reminded me a bit of goat. Tough and a bit stringy. The gamey flavors were something I’d grown used from so many of our nights spent camping.

Cailu leaned against the table and set his chin on top of his hands. “We must locate someone who can offer us gigashanks. Our time is precious.”

“Agni let us borrow the ones we used to get here,” Tristan supplied. “We could see if she’s still around?”

“A fine suggestion,” Cailu nodded. “We must hurry if we are to catch the merchant ship sailing to Nyarlothep. If we—”

“We have Portia,” I interrupted.

“Yeah,” Tristan said with a nervous laugh. “She’s probably wondering where we are.”

Even if this is pretty normal for her by now, we should really make it up to her.

“Portia? Was she the same one you traveled with to San Island?” Cailu asked.

Yeah, the one who robbed you blind.

“The one and only. She’s taken us from island to island,” I said, grabbing a small roll off the decorated center plate. “There’s no one I trust more to get us there.”

“Is she going to be okay with so many people coming aboard?” Cannoli asked from across the table. “I know her boat’s bigger, but we have three more people now.”

“I’ll sweeten the deal,” said Ravyn. She sat next to Cannoli, feeding Ball the occasional treat.

Ball perched on the table, littering the area with crumbs. The blue-feathered banshee had been oddly quiet as of recent.

“Unless you’re planning on walking up to her with a handful of Bells—” Keke started.

“I am,” Ravyn finished. “She’ll see reason. She always does.”

Keke groaned and rested her head on the table between her crossed arms. “Fine. Do whatever you want. It’s too damn early anyway,” she whined. She shut her eyes, and I admired the rise and fall of her back.

“Portia is a lovely girl.” Destiny leaned forward to see around Tristan, a warm smile tugging at the corners of her lips. “She would be perfectly suitable, I think, to take us there. I have enjoyed our company with her very much. Tristan, too.”

Tristan returned her smile. “Matt and Destiny are right. I trust her. She seems to know the waters intimately.”

Cailu let one arm fall and pinched his chin in thought.

Does everything you do have to be so pompous?

“Then we will make contact with her first.” Cailu settled his gaze on me. “If you trust her, then I’ll see to it that she is properly compensated for her efforts.”

“I’ll hold you to that,” I said, not bothering to look at him.

“How did you get here, Cailu?” Tristan asked. “I can’t imagine the Nyarlothep merchant ship makes that many stops to Ichi in such a short amount of time.”

Cailu shook his head. “We purchased passage from a [Dark Priest]. Without knowing how long I would be dispatched to this island, I sent Yǔ xī—the woman who captains my ship—and her crew back to San Island. They await my orders.”

Of course he has a crew.

Breakfast carried on like it had been since the morning after we walked into the citadel. Every day felt like my own personal hell whenever I sat at that table. A few times, I’d gone out of my way to take my food to another room, if just to avoid the overbearing stare of judgment that Cailu poured on me.

I finished eating and returned to my room. Once I’d packed the rest of my belongings, I examined the armor Cailu had given me. It had a distinct Ichi Island feel to it—an everlasting reminder of the nights we spent in this hellhole.

Hey, man. Stop that. It’s good equipment. Just put it on.

“[Combat Mode].” My combat equipment appeared, and I took my time removing my old gear and swapping it for each new piece.

The sleeveless top was made of a thick, off-white fabric that pooled around my neck in a makeshift hood—probably in case of sandstorms—then split and billowed behind me like a cape. The edges had detailed embroidery that swirled and spun like the desert winds.

Imagine that. A shirt that covers my chest and my stomach.

Two thick leather belts held the tunic against me, one crossing my shoulder, the other just above my hips. Dark pants made from a denim-like material tucked into knee-high leather boots. Matching leather bracers circled my forearms and wrists, with fingerless gloves at the ends. Metal armbands that looked like burnished gold clasped around my biceps, each holding a shimmering green gem in their center.

Looking at the pile of tiger leathers at the foot of the bed, I began to realize just how worn my armor had become. “Out with the old, in with the new,” I muttered. I slid the stupid aviator cap from my head and tossed it in with the pile of tiger leathers. That 1 Resistance point wasn’t doing much for me anymore. Good fucking riddance.

Once the equipment was set, I switched back to [Civilian Mode] and picked up my old armor.

What should I do with this stuff?

The thought of throwing it away was bittersweet. We’d busted our asses to get these sets. It carried a lot of good and bad memories, especially of San Island. The Defiled attack, the pickpocket kittens in the streets, the incredible food, and… Yomi.

A sigh escaped my lips, and I found I couldn’t part with the armor. At least, not for now. Perhaps later I’d scrap the stuff and get something for it.

Until then, it would sit in my [Cat Pack] or at Keke’s house or something.

Time to deliver the armor.

I left the hall, thinking on how I should’ve given the girls their new sets before turning in the night prior. But Cannoli and her well-being took priority. I wasn’t about to skip out early on our time with the fluffpuffs just to deliver Cailu’s gear. Cannoli was more important than that.

Keke had fallen asleep on one of the sofas in the main hall last I’d seen her, and I hadn’t been able to find Ravyn since I left the dining room. With that in mind, I decided to make Cannoli the first one I visited.

I knocked on the door to their room, and Tristan answered.

“Oh. What’s up, Matt?”

“Hey,” I smiled and offered a casual wave. Standing behind him was Cannoli. “Ah, there you are.” I gestured behind Tristan with a quick nod.

Tristan left the door open and went over to where Zahra was quietly packing her things. Cannoli hopped closer to where I stood, a familiar pep in her step. What a relief it was to see.

I cleared my throat and handed each piece of Cannoli’s gear to her one at a time. Cannoli’s outfit alone looked like it could pay for my retirement and then some.

“Oh my goodness!” Cannoli plucked one of the fabrics hanging over her forearm, her eyes widening as her thumb brushed against the silky material. “It’s so soft! Oh my gosh! Feel it!” She shoved the folded cotton against my cheek, and I couldn’t help but chuckle.

“Damn,” I said with absolute seriousness. “This is like a pillow.”

“Many pillows,” Cannoli breathed without taking her eyes off the equipment. Hopping from one foot to the other, she looked over her shoulder at Tristan. “I’m sorry, Tristan. Can we get the room for a minute?”

“Sure thing,” Tristan said easily. “Do you still need time to pack, Zahra?”

“No,” Zahra shook her head. “I have everything I need now.” She grabbed the scabbard containing her katana and put one end around her neck so that it hung at her side.

I made my way into the room while Zahra and Tristan brushed past me, shutting the door behind them. Cannoli carefully placed each piece of her new set on the bed in sequential order, beginning with the headpiece. Her tail swayed from side to side with the enthusiasm I’d come to expect from her.

After a time, Cannoli stepped back and marveled at the sight before her. She bit her bottom lip and clapped her hands together. “It’s so pretty,” she whispered.

I fought down the minor bit of jealousy I felt. I wish I could have been the one who did this for her. But I held onto what Melly had said—no one did this sort of thing on a whim. There must’ve been something about me that Cailu admired. Hell, just getting three of the guys together was a miracle in itself. So, in a way, this was because of me. Besides, if it meant helping my girls out, I could swallow my pride on this one.

“Try it on,” I encouraged.

Cannoli held the top close to her chest, then said, “[Combat Mode].” The tiger outfit replaced her prior clothes, and as unbuckled the cape, she paused.

“Oh. Right. Should I leave?” I glanced at the door. Should have thought of that a lot sooner.

“No, it’s okay. Can you just turn around, please?”

“Sure.” I turned around and listened to the sound of clothing ruffling and rubbing together. The occasional clang of metal drew a squeak from her, and I smiled.

“Okay, done.”

When I turned around, I gasped. ‘Regal’ was the first word that came to mind as I observed her. Golden plates rested over one another on each shoulder. Long sky-blue sleeves covered both arms, attached to a robe that rested just above her ankles. Around her waistline was a golden v-shaped ring, an incredible jewel of green at its center. The same gem decorated a similarly made necklace and form-fitting corset.

“Cannoli, you look like a princess,” I said, wide-eyed.

Cannoli averted her gaze, flushing. “D-do I really?”

“Absolutely. How does it feel?”

“Amazing! I could take the armor off and fall asleep in this. But then I’d wear it out, so I’ll be good.”

“Cailu said it was powerful armor, so let’s just how powerful it is. Appear, iPaw.”

Cannoli frowned. “Cailu, huh?”

“I know. I’m not exactly thrilled, either. But I have to agree that we need the best armor we can get. And I want you to be safe, so.” I shrugged. I scrolled through the menus like I usually did and located Cannoli’s profile. It felt strange to see Keke and me at Level 10 and her at Level 8. I stared at her portrait for a time, burning it into my memory. Chances were, this would be the last time I saw her picture in my Party window. I swallowed against the building lump in my throat and forced out my words. “Okay, let’s see what it looks like.”

Cannoli has gained: Emerald Herald’s Band!
Cannoli has gained: Emerald Herald’s Gown!
Cannoli has gained: Emerald Herald’s Sleeves!
Cannoli has gained: Emerald Herald’s Pantaloons!
Cannoli has gained: Emerald Herald’s Slippers!
Cannoli has gained: Emerald Herald’s Necklace!

Emerald Herald’s Band: +10 Myana Points, +3 Magic, +3 Resistance. +3 Defense, +8 Magic Defense. Enchantable.
Emerald Herald’s Gown: +8 Myana Points, +4 Magic, +3 Resistance, +5 Defense, +10 Magic Defense. Enchantable.
Emerald Herald’s Sleeves: +5 Myana Points, +2 Magic, +3 Dexterity, +3 Defense, +8 Magic Defense. Enchantable.
Emerald Herald’s Pantaloons: +8 Myana Points, +3 Magic, +3 Resistance, +5 Defense, +10 Magic Defense. Enchantable.
Emerald Herald’s Slippers: +5 Myana Points, +2 Magic, +3 Agility, +3 Defense, +8 Magic Defense. Enchantable.
Emerald Herald’s Necklace: +10 Myana Points, +5 Magic, +5 Vitality. Special Effect: Reduce Wind-Element damage by 15%.

I’d nearly dropped the iPaw. The tiger set was incredible, but this blew it out of the water. No wonder why this armor would’ve cost a small fortune. If every equipment set was like this, then I couldn’t wait to see what the others looked like. This ‘Enchantable’ notification was especially interesting. Hopefully, I could get details about that from someone not named Cailu.

“Matt?” Cannoli put a gentle hand on my shoulder. “Are you okay?”

“Y-yeah. Er, how do you feel?” I stammered.

“Uhm.” Cannoli retracted her hand and put it against her chest. “It’s hard to describe. My fingers feel funny. Tingly? Sparkly?” She frowned. “My head feels a bit heavy.”

As eager as I was to try and see how the insane improvement to her Magic would affect her Skills, I couldn’t see any way to test it. Well, beyond slicing open my finger and seeing how well she could heal it. Or maybe [Blessed Light] would permanently blind me.

“Are you going to be okay?” I asked.

“Yes, I think so,” Cannoli said with a hand to her forehead. “What does the armor do?”

I traced my finger down the row of Magic improvements, silently mouthing the addition I was doing in my head. “You, uh, got nineteen more points of Magic.”

Cannoli gasped. She fell back onto the bed and clapped a hand to her mouth. “No wonder my hands feel so weird.”

“Is that normal?”

Cannoli nodded. “Mhm. It happened when I first put my tiger armor on, too. Usually it only lasts for a couple of seconds, though. Like stretching my hands or feet! Sometimes I’ll feel a little lightheaded, but then it’s gone.”

I wondered if putting up Magic shared physical effects like Strength and Vitality, just for the brain. What changes, exactly?

“It’s starting to go away,” Cannoli whispered just loud enough for me to hear.

“Good.” I moved to stand beside her, leaning against the post. “You like the armor, then?”

“Yes. I love it.” She smiled and drew in a deep breath. “Hey, Matt?”

“Yeah?”

“I can’t wait to see what I can do as a [Priest].”

I returned her smile and brushed a long strand of hair away from her face. “Neither can I.”

 

Chapter 213: Chica Practica

After a short trip back to my room to pick up Ceres’s new set of armor, I made my way down the hall to the room farthest on the left. The irony was not lost on me that the maids of both Parties had all ended up in a single room together. Maybe this would give Ceres a chance to bond with Destiny and Lara in a, uh, mutual love for service.

Destiny was the one to open the door after I knocked. “Oh! It’s Matt! Did you need to speak with Ceres?”

“Yeah, is she here?” I asked.

“Sir Matt!” Ceres peered around the doorframe with the same light in her eyes as a child on Christmas morning. It was a stare I was sorely missing while she recovered. “I shall see to his needs.”

Destiny offered a curt bow before situating herself on the bed behind her.

“Can I come in?” I motioned with a flick of my head.

“By all means, please make yourself comfortable,” Ceres said with an exaggerated wave of her arm.

“Thanks, Ceres.” Unlike the rooms prior, this one’s beds were lined up side by side to my right. Destiny and Lara were perched on top of one, talking about something regarding Tristan and San Island. I tried not to eavesdrop, electing to sit on the floor where an oval-shaped red and gold embroidered carpet lay. “I got something for you.”

“Oh?” Ceres’ ears perked. “What is it?”

I motioned with my hand for her to sit down. When I realized how uncomfortable sitting on the floor could be—carpet or not—I stopped myself. “Er, if you wanna grab a chair, then—”

She knelt in front of me, resting on her legs with her hands crossed on top of her lap.

Ceres’s gear proved to be more difficult to carry to her room the first time around. I’d spent a good few minutes dropping the pieces before my bright self decided to dump the tiger armor in my room, pack Ceres’ stuff into the [Cat Pack], and bring it to her that way. One by one, I removed each piece of armor from my [Cat Pack], putting it on the floor between us.

She gaped as soon as the first piece of plate hit the floor. “Matt, this is—”

“Your new armor,” I finished. “There’s a lot to it, so bear with me.” It took a while to find everything. There were so many belts, straps, and pieces to the set that I began to realize just how much work Espada put into her stuff. When Ceres’s entire set was laid before us, I breathed a sigh and worked my hand inside the [Cat Pack] just in case I missed anything. “I think that’s everything. So? What do you think?”

Ceres took her time answering. “It’s beautiful, Matt. Is this… the armor that was promised by Sir Cailu?”

Sir Cailu?

“My, my, my,” came Lara’s airy voice. “This suit alone could make enough Bells to feed all of Leche.”

“Ooh,” Destiny marveled as she took a seat beside Ceres. “This is your new armor?”

“That is what I am told.” Ceres met my gaze with a smile.

I set my jaw, trying not to let Cailu’s new title bother me. “Why don’t you try it on?”

“I would be honored. [Combat Mode].” After her attire changed, Ceres rose to her feet, immediately undoing the knot of her maid’s apron and tossing it onto the middle bed.

“Don’t you want a little privacy?” I asked. I wasn’t expecting her to just start stripping.

Ceres tilted her head. “My undergarments hardly warrant fawning,” she giggled. “Besides, there is nothing beneath my threads that you have not already partaken in.”

She really does have no filter. I tried to cough away my blush and ignore Destiny’s wide-eyed leer.

“Still, though, if you don’t mind,” I said, standing up and looking at the wall behind me, “I’m going to turn around. It’s just, uh, the gentlemanly thing to do.” And I’m going to pretend Destiny isn’t looking at me like that.

Lara affirmed my words with a nod. “What a respectful man you have, Ceres.”

“There are none like him,” Ceres said, untying the skirt around her waist. I turned around just as I heard it hit the floor.

“Untrue,” Destiny combated. “Tristan is a man among men.”

“Hm,” Lara hummed. “You’re lying again.”

“I am not! He’s wonderful! He’s smart, attractive, blonde—”

“Your pancheent for blonde men is cute.”

“Penchant,” Ceres corrected.

I brushed a hand through my dark hair on instinct.

As the three continued to chatter, I pocketed my hands and thought for a while. Ceres seemed pretty unaffected by our temporary parting, despite her referring to me as ‘Lord’ for so long. She was probably eager to get back home and defend it like she had before I came along. It had to hurt to see the island you grew up on fall into such chaos.

“I am finished, Sir Matt.”

I turned around as Ceres was making the finishing touches on her hair. I was surprised she knew what to do with the golden thread inside. The iPaw had made it clear that the thread was an important piece of gear, but I couldn’t fathom in what way. It started to make sense once I saw her weaving it through the braids.

Wow, that’s beautiful.

Silver plates outlined in gold dressed Ceres from the waist up. The pauldrons, gauntlets, and breastplate were made of interconnected pieces that fell atop one another like the scales of a snake. Around her waist was a decorated skirt colored black with a white apron. From what I’d seen, a mesh of chain hidden under the skirt offered a balance between beauty and practicality. Her boots were fairly simple, the foot portion resembling a pair of Mary Jane’s, just metal instead of leather and thread.

Ceres finished her braid, allowing the length of her golden hair to drape over her shoulder. She put one hand over the other on top of her apron, smiling. “Do you approve?”

To be honest, she looked incredible. She tread the line between strong and graceful strikingly well. I’d seen what Ceres was like when she was serious, and she had all the characteristics of a Lady Knight.

“I’m… kinda at a loss for words. In a good way,” I admitted. My brain had gone numb. Cailu’s irritating voice had endlessly nagged the back of my head, but for once, it was quiet. Seeing Cannoli and Ceres in their new gear had shut it up. For now, at least. “How do you feel about it?”

“It is exceptional quality,” she said, lifting one leg to look at the bottom. “There is support where it is required,” she said, lifting the plate beneath her bust slightly, “and movement feels natural. The weight is negligible, and I am experiencing a significant performance increase to my Stats.” She opened and closed her hand a few times. “My single complaint lies with the gorget.”

“The what?” I asked. I watched as Ceres put a hand against the golden, well, neck brace for lack of a better term, suddenly realizing that ‘gorget’ was the name of the thing. “That’s what it’s called?” I scratched my head. “Was wondering what the heck that was.”

“Aye,” Ceres nodded. “It is a most important piece of a knight’s attire.” Her fingers brushed against the material in thought. “However, I am unaccustomed to such armor. It will take much practice before I am comfortable fighting with it.”

“Are you going to be okay wearing it?”

“Yes. Please, bear my concern no mind.”

“Whoa-ho-ho!” Lara cheered. “Cailu’s loaded! What do you think this is made of?”

“I don’t know, but I’m in love,” Destiny said in awe, grazing the metal’s edge with her fingers.

Ceres flexed one arm, a confident smile brimming on her face. “The Defiled will know justice.”

“Let’s see how much justice,” I laughed, procuring my iPaw. I scrolled down to Ceres’s portrait and clicked on the [Equipment] option that displayed, just as I had with Cannoli. The boost to Ceres’s Stats was just as ludicrous as Cannoli’s.

Ceres has gained: Enchanter’s Dragon Braid!
Ceres has gained: Enchanter’s Dragonplate!
Ceres has gained: Enchanter’s Dragon Gauntlets!
Ceres has gained: Enchanter’s Dragon Cuisses!
Ceres has gained: Enchanter’s Dragon Sabatons!
Ceres has gained: Enchanter’s Dragon Gorget!

Enchanter’s Dragon Braid: +3 Health Points, +7 Myana Points, +2 Strength, +2 Magic, +2 Vitality, +8 Defense, +6 Magic Defense. Enchantable.
Enchanter’s Dragonplate: +4 Health Points, +5 Myana Points, +2 Strength, +2 Magic, +2 Vitality, +2 Dexterity, +12 Defense, +8 Magic Defense. Enchantable.
Enchanter’s Dragon Gauntlets: +3 Health Points, +4 Myana Points, +2 Strength, +2 Magic, +2 Agility, +6 Defense, +5 Magic Defense. Enchantable.
Enchanter’s Dragon Cuisses: +6 Health Points, +6 Myana Points, +2 Strength, +2 Magic, +2 Dexterity, +2 Agility, +8 Defense, +6 Magic Defense. Enchantable.
Enchanter’s Dragon Sabatons: +4 Health Points, +6 Myana Points, +1 Strength, +2 Magic, +2 Vitality, +6 Defense, +5 Magic Defense. Enchantable.
Enchanter’s Dragon Gorget: +10 Health Points, +10 Myana Points, +1 All Stats. Special Effect: When the effect of an Invoke-type Spell expires or is dispelled for another effect, increase all Stats by 10% for 10 seconds.

Always with the dragons.

As I read off the Stats, Ceres remained straight-faced while Destiny and Lara oohed and awed. Ceres carried the disposition of a person about to be sent out to battle, and she seemed to be enjoying every minute of it.

“Superb,” Ceres said, looking down at her gauntlets. “I owe Cailu my gratitude.”

“Yeah. I guess so.”

“Your tone suggests I should not be gracious.”

Way to call me out in front of the other maids.

“Just wishing I didn’t have to rely on him to get you better gear,” I admitted, dismissing the iPaw. “Trust me, I’ve had this conversation already.” And I wasn’t about to have it again. “I get that we need help, just feeling a bit, well… what’s the word?”

“Broke?” Lara asked.

“Depressed?” Destiny added.

Jesus, guys. It’s not that bad.

“Inadequate,” Ceres finished for me.

I snapped my fingers. “Yes, that’s the word. Inadequate.”

“You are hardly inadequate, Sir Matt.” Her tone turned serious, and she furrowed her brow. “Believe me when I say I have seen the alternative. Please allow others to assist. No single person can upheave the Defiled’s nature. Cailu is living proof. It will take the work of all three men to see Nyarlea’s future is a bright one.” Clutching the hem of her skirt, she curtsied. “I apologize if I have overstepped my boundaries.”

“You haven’t.”

Ceres straightened her back. “Very well. I will do my very best while you are away. I wish to make you proud.”

“You always do, Ceres.” I glanced at Destiny, then at Lara. A part of me was at least happy to see that Tristan wouldn’t be traveling in San by himself.

Besides, he has Ravyn to guide him. The thought tightened my chest.

“Alright. I should get going,” I sighed. “Still gotta deliver Keke and Ravyn’s new sets.” Just as I grabbed the door handle, Ceres stopped me with a hand on my shoulder.

“Matt. May I offer one last piece of advice?”

I looked at her from over my shoulder. Her eyes dug into me with a sense of severity I seldom saw. Whatever she wanted to say was important.

“Sure. Go ahead.”

“I cannot stress this enough. Accept help when it is offered to you. Pride tarnishes even the finest heroes.”

Noted.

“Thanks, Ceres. I’ll see you shortly.”

I shut the door behind me and traveled the hallway at a brisk pace. There were still two sets of armor left to deliver, and the sun would soon be up. I pictured Cailu as the kind of dad sitting in the car with the engine on fifteen minutes before ass-in-seat time. But I couldn’t carry all of this by myself, and I wanted my girls to be geared.

Ceres’s words swam around in my thoughts.

Pride, huh?

 

Chapter 214: Que De Raro Tiene

Once I’d begun looking for Keke and Ravyn, I started to worry. I could just hear Ravyn’s voice in my head.

“‘I’m not taking handouts from a cunt,’” I muttered, pitching my voice like hers.

The spitting image of sophistication, that one.

I made my way to the room Keke, Ravyn, and I had been sharing since we first arrived at the castle. Things would’ve been so much easier if they were still together packing, but they weren’t there.

Of course.

The gear was cumbersome to carry all at once. Even after leaving my tiger gear in the room, my [Cat Pack] wouldn’t be able to carry all of it. I drummed a finger against the door’s handle, wondering who I should try and locate first.

I guess we’ll find Ravyn first. Probably shouldn’t put that off.

Ravyn would undoubtedly be the worst of them to convince. But, much like a shot, it was best to just get it over with. The longer I put it off, the worse it would get.

After I threw her new gear into my [Cat Pack], I walked the lengthy halls of the castle in search of our resident witch. It wasn’t until I exited into one of the palace’s numerous courtyards that I finally found her.

Ravyn was hunched over a plot of violet flowers. Her tail swayed side to side as she plucked one by the stem to sniff it. She’d periodically look up at Ball, who was perched on the trellis—a word I’d learned from Shizen—beside her. Ravyn was muttering something I couldn’t hear. The only word I’d caught was my name. I rubbed the clasp around my ear.

Ball had seen me the moment I walked outside. The hellkite and I looked at one another for a time, and I wondered why he hadn’t let Ravyn know I had arrived. This would usually be the moment the little shit would scream some vulgarity, and he and Ravyn would share a laugh at my expense. It was odd to see him quiet.

For some reason, it felt as if someone had filled my shoes with cement. My feet refused to move, paralyzed by what I knew was going to be an awful conversation about Cailu. I ran a hand through my hair, leaned my head back, and shut my eyes.

Come on, man. Like a shot.

I took a deep breath and approached, my hand on my [Cat Pack].

“Ravyn?”

Ravyn shot to her feet, shooting a dark glare at Ball. The parrot narrowed his eyes, and the two shared an experience I had no words to describe beyond ‘uncomfortable.’

“What?” Ravyn snapped.

“Sorry if I caught you while you were busy,” I said, nearing her.

“Baka. I am always busy.”

“What? Drinking?” I chuckled.

Ravyn glanced at me over her shoulder, spun the flower in her hand, then tossed it to the side. She turned to face me, crossing her arms and wearing her usual expression that seemed stuck somewhere between a pout and a glare.

“I’ll have you know that I only had one drink last night.”

“Great,” I said with a forced smile. “I come bearing gifts.”

She raised a brow. “Of what variety?”

“Just, uh… let me explain, alright?” Reaching into my [Cat Pack], I procured the headdress from within. “Here. There’s a lot.”

Ravyn’s frown deepened. “Where did you get that?”

“Nowhere.” I continued to extract the remaining clothes from within, grateful that her outfit was primarily cloth. Most of it folded over my forearm with relative ease. All that remained was the jewelry. “It was about time we got new gear, so—”

“Cailu set you up,” Ravyn finished.

Here we go.

“I’m not taking handouts from a cunt,” she continued. “The last thing I want is— Why are you laughing?”

I couldn’t hold it in. I bowed my head forward and rubbed my eyes as I chuckled. “Sorry, it’s nothing. Really.”

“Mou ii. Whatever. The equipment I have is fine.”

“Hold this,” I said, tossing the headdress at her underhanded. Ravyn responded, catching with a stumble. Her cheeks reddened. “What do you feel?”

The way I figured it, she’d be able to pick up on the outfit’s boosts like Cannoli and Ceres did. If it was even half as powerful as her current gear, then she should’ve been able to detect it immediately.

After all, you can basically smell magic, right?

Ravyn gaped. “The fuck? This…”

“So I take it it’s strong?”

Ravyn has gained: Summoner’s Scorching Headdress!

I had no idea why it was called a headdress. It was more like a golden thread or chain if anything. It wasn’t so thin like Ceres’s, where it was obviously meant to be weaved into your hair, but several precious jewels and ornaments hung from it like what I’d expect to see on royalty.

“Very,” Ravyn mumbled before clenching it in her fist. She met my gaze, and an expression I hadn’t yet seen twisted her features. It felt like she was trying to decipher what was in my head. Almost as if I was up to something. “Fine. I’ll take it.”

“And the rest?”

She grunted. “And the rest.”

I smiled. “Thanks, Ravyn.”

I handed her the remaining pieces of fabric, setting the sandals and jewelry in a neat stack on top of a nearby garden chair, eager to get this over with. I couldn’t tell how much of it looked in a pile, and frankly I couldn’t care less. If I was being true to myself, it hurt me that Ravyn was being so blase about the situation. She wouldn’t be with me for my Class change or for… well, much of anything for the foreseeable future.

It was hard to imagine.

The worst part though? I still struggled to see where we stood. I never knew how to act when we were alone. After our first act of intimacy, our interactions had felt stilted, awkward, unsure. Like there was something each of us wanted to say but didn’t have the guts to say it. To me, it felt like there was a fog between us.

And neither of us was willing to cross it to understand the other. For my part, I constantly feared I’d just make things worse.

“Alright. I’m going to get out of your hair. Lots to do,” I said. I’d spent enough time delivering these outfits. Cailu was undoubtedly sitting in a chair somewhere, wondering where I was.

“Hold on.” Ravyn spun the length of golden chain around one finger, a hand on her hip. “I want to see exactly what boosts I’m getting from this.”

“Go ahead and strip. I’ll turn around,” I joked.

“I need at least three drinks if I’m going to strip in a courtyard.” She strode by me, chain clenched in her hand, and tugged me by the sleeve of my jacket. “Come.”

Ravyn has gained: Summoner’s Scorching Robe!
Ravyn has gained: Summoner’s Scorching Bands!
Ravyn has gained: Summoner’s Scorching Knickers!
Ravyn has gained: Summoner’s Scorching Sandals!
Ravyn has gained: Summoner’s Scorching Brooch!

I’d expected her to drag us back to our own room. Would’ve made things easier too, assuming Keke had returned.

Instead, she pulled me into a room that hadn’t been claimed. It was furnished like the others, with gold and red embroideries, lavish marble floors, deluxe beds. You know, exactly what you’d expect from a dragon who enjoyed hoarding his treasure.

Ball flew inside just before Ravyn shut the door, perching atop the closest bedpost.

“Turn around,” said Ravyn.

“Oh, what, now we’re shy?” I teased. She raised a brow and crossed her arms, tapping her foot against the floor. “Alright, alright.” I turned around, looking at Ball. “So, how have you been doing?”

Ball shut his eyes into half-slits. “Stupid Matt! Squawwwk!”

“Great. Glad to see our relationship hasn’t changed,” I grumbled.

“What was that?” Ravyn asked. The sound of her clothes hitting the floor raised the hairs on my skin, and I shook my head away of any intrusive thoughts.

“Nothing.”

“Baka.”

Minutes passed. I was beginning to wonder how much longer this was going to take. Surely it wasn’t that complicated to put on. Save for the chest piece, it seemed like it was mostly fabric.

“Having trouble?” I asked.

“No. You stay put.”

I sighed and tapped my foot against the floor, watching Ball preen himself. The entire time Ravyn dressed, Ball kept his attention on me. For some reason, it felt more… I don’t know, more analytical than usual. Probably just the stress getting to me. The days I spent away from the castle were nice, but they’d also made me slightly awkward with the girls. Guess that’s what happens when you spend time away from people you’ve been traveling with for so long.

And it’s going to be a lot longer soon.

“I’m finished,” Ravyn announced.

When I turned around, I raised my brows. Gone was the sexy witch; in its place was the graceful sorceress. Maybe this would be a nice—

“I wonder if someone could shorten this for me,” Ravyn muttered. “It’s much too long. Doesn’t show off my assets.”

Of course.

She looked every part the [Sorcerer] she’d boasted she was. Silks of red draped over her body, ribbons of gold shimmering in the lamplight. A decorated chest piece of golden metal covered her torso, emphasizing her bust. As I continued to stare, I saw that her arms were bare, covered by a half-cape attached to the necklace that looked like it could be used as a weapon. A single emerald stone rested in the groove of her brooch.

I could see what she meant, though. The dress hovered just above her ankles.

“You look incredible,” I said. “I mean, beautiful, really.”

A rare shade of red colored her cheeks. Her eyes dropped, and she twirled a lock of hair around her finger. “Thanks.”

“Let’s see what the Stats look like.” I summoned the iPaw, happy to see it had already updated with her new equipment information.

Summoner’s Scorching Headdress: +15 Myana Points, +4 Magic, +2 Dexterity, +3 Defense, +8 Magic Defense. Enchantable.
Summoner’s Scorching Robe: +10 Myana Points, +4 Magic, +2 Dexterity, +5 Defense, +10 Magic Defense. Enchantable.
Summoner’s Scorching Bands: +8 Myana Points, +2 Magic, +3 Dexterity, +3 Defense, +8 Magic Defense. Enchantable.
Summoner’s Scorching Knickers: +10 Myana Points, +4 Magic, +3 Dexterity, +5 Defense, +10 Magic Defense. Enchantable.
Summoner’s Scorching Sandals: +8 Myana Points, +2 Magic, +1 Dexterity, +3 Agility, +3 Defense, +10 Magic Defense. Enchantable.
Summoner’s Scorching Brooch: +20 Myana Points, +5 Magic, +5 Dexterity. Special Effect: Reduces the Myana Point cost of Fire-Element Skills and Magic used through the familiar by 15%.

Sweet Christ, that’s a lot of Magic.

A burst of flame came to life in the palm of Ravyn’s hand. Could have been my imagination, but the flame felt considerably hotter than it usually did.

“Oh, yes,” she whispered, a malevolent smile twisting one corner of her lips, “I like this very, very much.”

“I’ll let Cailu know.”

She snapped her hand closed, snuffing out the flame. “The fuck you will.” She marched up to me, grabbing me by the shirt. It was weird not hearing the click of heels. That’d take some getting used to. “The cunt doesn’t deserve the satisfaction.” She let go of me, folding her arms once more and sighing. I straightened out my shirt while she tapped her foot in thought. “Why did you leave the castle?”

“I needed some time alone with my thoughts,” I admitted. “I overreacted, and no one needed to see that.”

Ravyn’s expression turned to one of confusion. “What’s wrong?”

Did she really not understand? Or was this another one of her jokes?

“Nothing. I’m fine now.”

Don’t let your girls go without telling them how much they matter to you. Melly’s words rang loud in my ears.

I hesitated and scratched the back of my neck. Ravyn’s combative voice wouldn’t be there anymore, and I’d have to be okay with that. “Really.” She didn’t deserve that. She already had too much on her shoulders. “Just had a weird few days.” I could take it.

“Matt.” Ravyn closed the distance between us and embraced me.

My first instinct was to push her off of me, but I couldn’t. Not when I wanted this so bad. My facade was falling.

“I can tell when something’s bothering you. You have that same look you did the night I gave you that earring.” Ravyn pulled back and looked up at me.

“I’m going to miss you something fierce,” I relented.

Ravyn rolled to the balls of her feet and kissed my cheek. Her tone softened and she laid a hand on my chest. “Hey. I’ll be back. I promise. You can’t get rid of me that easily.”

My eyes welled up, but pure stubbornness prevented the tears from falling. I didn’t speak until I was sure I could do it without choking, coughing, or crying.

I returned her gaze. “I’m glad to hear it,” I said finally. I still had no idea where we stood. For the time being, though, this was good enough. I brushed an errant strand of hair away from her face. “It’ll be weird without you.”

She smirked, pushing me away in a playful manner. “Of course it will. I’m a [Sorcerer]. You’re going to be practically naked while I’m gone.”

“Yeah,” I smiled, running a hand through my hair. “Pretty much.”

 

Chapter 215: Antes Que Se Acabe

When I went back to our room, Keke was lounging on the bed, rubbing the sleep from her eyes. She yawned and rubbed her hands against her face.

“I thought we were supposed to be leaving,” she whined between her fingers. “I could have slept in longer.”

I smiled and took a seat next to her. “This is my last errand. Promise.”

She peeked over her fingertips and awarded me with a curious stare. “Errand?”

“Yeah.” I collected the final package of equipment from beneath the bed and handed it to her. “This is for you.”

Keke yawned again, then accepted the box. Her eyes widened as soon as the lid was off, and she poked at the lemon-colored fabric. “Armor?”

“A full set.”

“Matt…” She blinked, lifting the black leather choker into her hands. With a gasp, her expression turned to surprise, and her stare snapped to me. “Goddess above. Please don’t take this personally, but how did you pay for this?”

“I didn’t. Cailu bought all of us armor,” I admitted for the fourth time that morning. At least it was getting easier to say with repetition. Like memorizing useless Shakespeare plays in high school.

“Why?”

The blatant question made me laugh. “I’d wondered the same thing.” I picked a stray thread from the neatly folded yellow top. “As much as he gets under my skin, I think he’s trying to help.”

Lifting the single pauldron tucked at the side, Keke carefully inspected it with scrutinizing eyes. “He really spared no expense on this.”

“So I’m told.”

“Let’s not waste it, then.” With a resolved nod, she set the package aside and stood. “[Combat Mode].” Her casual clothing cast a warm glow before shifting to her tiger leathers.

“Do you want me to step outside?” I asked.

“No.” Keke tugged the striped scarf away from her neck.

“Should I turn around?”

“No.” A wry smile played at the corners of her lips as she reached around for the ties on her corset.

A bittersweet chill slid down my spine. I thought a few days of distance would have made this easier, but everything I felt for Keke crashed into me like a hurricane.

Just enjoy the time you have, man.

I stood and put a hand on her shoulder. “Let me help, then.”

“If you insist,” she teased, turning away from me.

I brushed her hair to the side and set to work on the leather ties. I memorized the curve of her back and the strong line of her shoulders as I worked, loosing the strings one by one. “Keke, can I tell you something?”

“Anything.” She pulled her hair over her shoulder, toying with the ends.

“I know that this isn’t forever and it’s only temporary. I’ve told myself that at least a hundred times in the last few days.” The ties came free, and the top separated from her back. I traced her spine with my fingertips, smiling as the goosebumps raised behind my touch. “But I’m going to miss you so damn much.”

“I’ll miss you too, Matt. A lot,” she replied, letting the bodice slide to her wrists. She wrapped her tail around my hips. “I think this is hard on all of us. More than any of us want to admit.”

I rested my hands on her waist, willing them not to slide forward and grope her exposed chest. Don’t let anyone say I wasn’t getting better at reading the room. “That’s a little comforting, at least.”

“We don’t want to worry you while you’re gone. You should be able to concentrate on Second Class without thinking we’ll crumple the moment you leave our sides.”

I bit my tongue. I wanted to argue with her, but the reality was that I was scared of exactly that. Somehow, if I couldn’t keep my eye on them, that would be the end of it. I opted for a grain of truth instead. “It’s not that I think you’re weak.”

“I know that, and they do, too. It’s just that everyone wants to put on a brave face. I mean, it’s what we’ve been doing since we were kittens.” She tossed the armor to the side and set to work on the buckles at the tops of her bracers. “My mom told me that one of the best things you can do for your friends during a rough time is stay strong.”

“That makes sense.” I followed the hem of her pants until I found the belt buckle. Resting my chin on her shoulder, I slid the strap free from the loops.

“That doesn’t mean you always have to act strong, though,” she added. One bracer joined the discarded bodice, then the other.

“I just didn’t want to bring the mood down, I guess.”

“I know. And I didn’t want to force you to talk to me.” She leaned into my embrace and circled her arms behind her, resting them around my neck. “You know that I’ll be thinking of you every day while you’re gone, right?”

“I… wait, seriously?” Heat flooded my neck and face in a furious blush, and I got a little tongue-tied. To be honest, that was one of the nicest things anyone had ever said to me. Part of me outright rejected it—there was no way I deserved those words from Keke. But here she was, letting me roll her leggings down her hips, exposing her to the world save for a pair of black underwear. God, she smells incredible.

Keke giggled, turning to kiss my cheek. “Seriously.” She dropped her arms and tail to step out of her pants. But before she went to retrieve her armor, she turned toward me and hugged me into a tight embrace. “I’ll be by your side again in no time. You’ll see.”

I stroked her hair and enjoyed her warmth against me. “Yeah. You’re probably right.”

Rocking forward on her tiptoes, she brushed her mouth against mine in a sweet, tender kiss. The nineapple juice she’d enjoyed at breakfast still lingered on her lips, and I savored her warm body against mine.

A harsh knock at the door interrupted us.

“One second!” I barked, hoping no one would barge through.

“Matt! Our entourage has waited a quarter of an hour for you to depart! Are you quite done?” Cailu bellowed.

Fuck. I guess it was only a matter of time before he started laying on the horn. I sighed. “Just five more minutes, Cailu. I’m finishing up right now.”

“Your time starts now! On my next visit, there will be no warning knock!”

“Fine! Like I said, I’ll be right there!” I shook my head.

One final knock. Then silence.

Keke laughed and slid from my arms, hurrying to free the armor from its case.

“‘There will be no warning knock,’” I mimicked under my breath.

“He has a point. I told you we should have left earlier,” Keke countered with a grin.

“Don’t you start, too,” I groaned. But thanks to her, my spirits felt higher. We’d finally get off this sand-packed hellscape. I would see forests again. A concept that felt so painfully foreign after so long in the desert.

Keke dressed with impressive agility. For my part, I could only watch. There wasn’t much for me to help with on this set.

The black leather bodice covered her entire torso and featured straps that criss-crossed over her chest with a round, ruby gemstone at their center. A golden half-jacket rested on top of it; the right sleeve flared just above the elbow while the other vanished beneath a golden pauldron. Black shorts cut high on the thigh while black leather boots rested just above her knees. Both were surrounded by a golden half-cape that fell from the belt at her waist. Green trimmings, black leather bracers, and her black choker with a golden buckle completed the ensemble.

Keke has gained: Stalker’s Hunting Ringlets!
Keke has gained: Stalker’s Hunting Vest!
Keke has gained: Stalker’s Hunting Gloves!
Keke has gained: Stalker’s Hunting Pants!
Keke has gained: Stalker’s Hunting Boots!
Keke has gained: Stalker’s Hunting Choker!

“I feel stronger,” Keke remarked, clenching her hands into fists as she marveled at the pauldrons. “What are the Stats on this?”

“Let’s see.” I summoned the iPaw and navigated to Keke’s equipment. Jesus. I slowly read each piece off to her.

Stalker’s Hunting Ringlets: +4 Myana Points, +3 Strength, +3 Dexterity, +4 Defense, +5 Magic Defense. Enchantable.
Stalker’s Hunting Vest: +4 Myana Points, +2 Strength, +3 Dexterity, +2 Agility, +8 Defense, +6 Magic Defense. Enchantable.
Stalker’s Hunting Gloves: +2 Myana Points, +1 Strength, +2 Dexterity, +2 Agility, +5 Defense, +5 Magic Defense. Enchantable.
Stalker’s Hunting Pants: +4 Myana Points, +2 Strength, +2 Dexterity, +4 Agility, +8 Defense, +6 Magic Defense. Enchantable.
Stalker’s Hunting Boots: +2 Myana Points, +2 Dexterity, +4 Agility, + 5 Defense, +5 Magic Defense. Enchantable.
Stalker’s Hunting Choker: +5 Health Points, +5 Myana Points, +2 Strength, +2 Dexterity, +2 Agility. Special Effect: Increases the duration of [Pinpoint Weakness] by 20%.

Keke shook her head, her face the picture of disbelief, and touched the gemstone. “Did Cailu tell you what ‘Enchantable’ means?”

“He did not.” Maybe the Nyarlean Wikipedia is feeling generous today. “Hey, Ai—”

The door slammed open, and a very frustrated Cailu stepped inside. “Enchantable gear can be further altered by an [Arbiter].” He gestured through the door with a sweep of his arm. “This I can explain and more during our journey to Nyarlothep. Which begins immediately.”

I shared a quick glance with Keke, who looked like she was trying her best not to laugh.

“I’m ready if you are,” she said.

“Yeah.” I turned to Cailu. “I’m ready.”

 

A note from DoubleBlind

This is a 3k-word commission for the kickass Carmine! It was a ton of fun to put together 5e classes/races/backgrounds for the girls and feel out how a session would go with Matt DMing. I hope you guys enjoy it as much as I do.

Everyone's a Catgirl! Volume One and Volume Two

Commission Me

A huge thank you to my new Patrons, Demoet and Alester_ryku!

---

Bonus Quest: Dungeons & Dragons

“[Sharpshooter]!” Elona cried, hopping up onto a boulder and readying another arrow. The narrow cavern didn’t allow for a lot of free movement, forcing her to utilize the uneven territory in their battle.

“Mou ii. We don’t have to yell out our passives, remember?” Ravyn jumped to the side where Elona was standing moments before, narrowly avoiding a fist-sized rock flying toward her head. “And how the hell do bugs throw rocks?!” She raised her hands to her chest and screamed, “[Fire Ball]!”

“That’s Fire Bolt, Ravyn,” Janusz bellowed. His icy blue reptilian eyes glared at her beneath red, leathery scales.

Ravyn blinked. “I am never going to get used to that voice. Whatever. [Fire Bolt]!” she shouted again. A string of flames materialized from thin air, colliding with the enormous, wasp-like creature that buzzed through the air.

The monster squealed in pain and whirred in desperate circles to put the flames out from its wings.

Another gigantic insect readied its stinger and rocketed toward Janusz.

Bunny raised her staff and cried, “[Sanctuary]!” A warm glow surrounded the bejeweled sphere at its peak, then flowed forward, encompassing Janusz in a hazy, swirling fog.

Just as the sharp point of the stinger brushed against Janusz’s shield, the wasp hesitated. It fluttered in confusion, bulbous eyes searching the dragonborn’s form as it hovered before him.

Janusz swung his sacred sword with all his might, cleaving the insect in twain. Green blood sputtered from its severed halves as it fell to the ground, splattering the [Paladin]’s well-worn shield and armor.

“You have my thanks, Bunny!” he called, charging forward toward the next foe.

“O-of course!” Bunny stammered, tucking a length of snow-white hair behind her ear.

“Ravyn, heads up!” Elona cried. She unsheathed a dagger from her boot and leapt from the boulder, driving the blade into the eye of a wasp that had snuck up behind Ravyn’s back.

“Fuck!” Ravyn spun on her heel and stepped backward, giving Elona plenty of space to work. The [Ranger] stabbed the wasp a second time, then a third. At last, its wings slowed, and it drifted to the ground. A pool of green drained from its carapace.

“I didn’t even hear it! Kuso! Human ears are stupid!” Ravyn grumbled.

“But you’re a tiefling! You get to see in the dark!” Bunny said happily.

“Let us focus on the task at hand, friends!” Janusz commanded.

“Okay, Dad. But we’re just fi—”

Before Ravyn could finish her thought, another airborne rock sailed through the air and struck her forehead.

​

“Nani the fuck, Matt!” Ravyn shrieked, throwing her dice to the table. “You can’t just hide monsters from us!”

Matt shrugged. “It wouldn’t be hidden if you paid attention.”

“And how do bugs with no hands throw rocks?” she continued.

“With telekinesis.” Matt grinned. “I wanted to keep you on your toes.”

“That’s so fucking stupid.”

“U-um, Ravyn? It’ll be okay,” Cannoli said, resting a hand on Ravyn’s shoulder. “I can heal you! I still have a cast of [Healing Word] left!”

“You wouldn’t have to use it if Matt wasn’t being a jackass,” Ravyn snapped. “Besides, why are our Spells limited per day? That’s ridiculous.”

“Those are the rules.” Matt frowned, drumming his fingers on the table.

“And these books! Kuso!” Ravyn thumped her fist against the stack of [Sorcerer] manuals. “I have to read an entire library, then do complex math equations to cast anything!”

“You could have picked a [Rogue] like you said,” Keke quipped, flicking a piece of popcorn into the air and catching it in her mouth.

“I find it interesting that in an imaginary game where you can be whatever you choose, you decided to essentially play as yourself,” Ceres added thoughtfully. “Well, except for the horns, of course.”

“Why wouldn’t I want to be myself?” Ravyn countered. “That makes more sense than being a dragon man.”

Ceres furrowed her brow. “A man is a revered and respected position, as you are well familiar.” She tapped the head of her freshly painted dragonborn miniature. “Besides, according to these books, a dragonborn makes an exceptional [Paladin]. Which we require, as Matt is not our fearless leader in this sense.”

Ravyn snickered under her breath and fed Ball Gag a cookie. “Yeah, okay. Better a dragon man than Cailu’s female variant, I suppose.”

Keke’s face darkened, and her cheeks turned red. “Elves get bonuses to Dexterity in this world!”

“Fine, but did you have to look like him?”

“Ravyn,” Matt warned.

“My mother had blonde hair. Besides, isn’t Cailu what all elves look like?” Keke looked to Matt for help.

“I couldn’t tell you,” Matt said honestly.

“Hey, guys? Can we get back to the game?” Cannoli asked. Buttons danced around her fingers, making a game of touching the tips with his tail. “I’m having fun with it.”

“Yeah, of course.” Matt straightened in his seat and cleared his throat. “So, as I was saying…”

​

Ravyn sunk to the floor, cradling her head in her hand.

Bunny rushed to her side, relieved to find that the rock had hardly cut the skin. A trickle of blood vanished into Ravyn’s fiery red hair, but it seemed to only have dazed the [Sorcerer].

“Oh! I have a potion for this!” Bunny rummaged through her side pack, procuring a tiny glass bottle filled with a golden tonic. “Here, drink up!”

“Thanks, Bunny,” Ravyn said, accepting the bottle and popping the cork.

“It’s so cute when you say my name!” Bunny exclaimed, patting Ravyn between the horns.

“Don’t patronize me.”

Elona thrust a hand forward, her palm aimed at the wasp that had ambushed her companion. “[Ensnaring Strike]!”

A twisted tangle of vines erupted from the right wall and the floor, capturing the wasp mid-air. Sharp thorns sprouted from the tangles, piercing the insect from all angles. It hissed, struggling against its binds—

​

“Insects don’t hiss,” Ravyn said.

“In this world they do,” Matt countered.

“Shut up! You’re ruining my moment!” Keke snapped, shoving a hand against Ravyn’s shoulder.

Ceres laughed.

“So the wasp was hissing?” Cannoli prompted, her eyes glittering. “What’s next, Matt?”

Matt nodded. “Alright. So. The hissing grows louder as two more vines bind the insect’s wings…”

​

It was like an iron maiden, clamping and squeezing the writhing monster.

“[Hunter’s Mark]!” Elona cried, nocking an arrow over her bow and drawing it back.

The wasp’s carapace radiated a soft yellow light, signaling the success of Elona’s Spell.

Inhaling a deep breath, Elona pulled the arrow back and freed it on her exhale. Her shot sang true, missing the vines, plunging deep into the wasp’s shell, and piercing its heart. The monster shrieked, gurgling green blood from its tiny mouth before dying.

“It seems that is all of them,” Janusz announced. He drew the long blade across his thigh, cleansing it of the wasp’s verdant lifeblood.

“Wonderful. Can we leave this fucking hell-cave now?” Ravyn grumbled. She pushed herself to her feet, brushing the dirt from her black robes.

“We’re here to find the golden dragon, remember?” Bunny said, straightening the collar on Ravyn’s dress.

Elona procured a hand-drawn map, a quill, and a small bottle of ink from her pack. She crouched on the floor and carefully sketched their current location, connecting the lines of the stone corridor to the previous room. “We solved the riddle at the entrance, moved through the tomb of the Empress, and left our blessing with the Shrine of the Golden Dragon. Cere— I mean, Janusz, what else do you remember from your dream?”

Janusz sheathed his sword and adjusted the shield on his arm. “I recall the sound of flowing water near her den.” He looked from side to side. “None of these walls or structures would suggest a tempering by water.”

Ravyn narrowed her eyes. “How would you know that?”

“The ocean’s tides heavily influenced my home islands of Valkyn,” Janusz explained, stroking the cool rock walls with one clawed hand. “Stone fences and brick roads were at the mercy of the salted water—smoothed and laid low by its machinations.”

“Woah, Ceres really did her research,” Bunny murmured to Elona.

“It certainly puts us to shame.” Elona giggled.

“Hmph. Did we come to the wrong cave, then?” Ravyn wandered to the far end of the hallway.

“Why would this cave have everything else we needed, then?” Elona challenged. “Like the Shrine of the Golden Dragon?”

“It’s okay if it’s not super close! We have plenty of supplies and Spells left,” Bunny interrupted. “There’s no need to worry. We’ll find her when we find her.”

“How much do you think a golden dragon head is worth?” Ravyn wondered aloud.

Janusz shook his head. “Ravyn, for the dozenth time, we are not here to kill the dragon. She summoned us for a reason.”

“Then why, Janusz, has she gone out of her way to kill us?” Ravyn demanded. She held out one hand, ticking their trials off on her fingers. “If Elona hadn’t solved the riddle correctly, the walls would have flattened us into pudding. The shrine would have destroyed anyone not pure of heart, so we’d be up in flames if it weren’t for Bunny. There are the traps, the bottomless pits, the monsters—”

“Perhaps it is a test. Not everyone has the opportunity to speak with a dragon,” Janusz suggested.

Elona carefully rolled up her map and deposited the ink and quill back into her pack. “Whining won’t get us any closer to the dragon or to the college’s reward.”

“Um, about that.” Bunny raised a hand. “Do you really think it’s okay to give your map to strangers? Will the dragon be safe?”

“The college requested it for archival purposes. I do not believe it will be used for nefarious purposes,” Janusz reasoned.

“I agree with him. I think it’s important to know as much as you can about a place like this. Especially if it could affect the city’s citizens in the future,” Elona said.

“Less talking, more walking.” Ravyn gestured over her shoulder, pointing forward. “Torches don’t last all day, remember?”

Bunny idly braided a section of her hair. “I wish I had [Illuminate] here. Or that I could call on my quori to give us light. Like Lara does with the Elements.”

“Could you not have taken [Illumination], Bunny? I recall seeing it in one of this world’s tomes,” Janusz asked.

Bunny blushed, her clear blue eyes dropping to the floor. “I-I didn’t slot [Illuminate] into my daily Spells,” she murmured.

“That’s what torches are for!” Ravyn called from around the corner.

“Wait, I have a question,” Elona raised a hand.

​

“What’s up?” Matt asked, looking up from behind the screen.

“Can I carve the monsters?” Keke asked. “Like Encroachers or Defiled. Would the wasps have anything I can sell or use?”

“Erm, I didn’t really think of that.” He leaned over his notes. “Do any of you have points in [Alchemy]?”

“Oh! I took two!” Cannoli clapped her hands. Button hopped up and down with glee. “You know, just in case.”

“Alright, then sure. You find two wasp stingers. Bunny recognizes them as potion ingredients for antidotes,” Matt said.

“Great. That’ll work.” Keke gave a satisfied nod, shoveling another handful of popcorn into her mouth. “We can continue on.”

“Everyone else good?”

There was a universal nod of agreement around the table.

“Cool. So, the four of you continue down the dark, silent hallway. Your footsteps echo against the walls. Roll me a Perception check.”

“Five,” Cannoli said.

“Six,” Ravyn grumbled.

“Ten,” Ceres announced.

“Fifteen with my bonus.” Keke grinned.

Matt nodded. “Elona hears the sound of running water…”

​

“It sounds like we’re going the right way,” Elona announced to the group.

“Well, well. The pointy ears are good for something,” Ravyn said, her tone dripping with sarcasm.

“More than you can say for your horns,” Elona snapped back.

“I think both of you look beautiful,” Bunny interjected. “Just like you always do.”

That seemed to placate the duo.

“This smell… It is familiar.” Janusz closed his eyes and inhaled, the scales at the back of his head flaring outward. “Yes, this was just like my dream!”

“Dragons have a smell?” Ravyn asked no one in particular.

Elona shrugged.

“Children, you have come,” a deep, elegant voice spoke, surprising all four adventurers.

They exchanged uncomfortable looks.

“Should we prepare for the worst?” Bunny whispered.

“If we go in with our weapons drawn, she may think we’re here to hurt her,” Elona murmured.

“We’re not?” Ravyn asked.

Janusz and Elona glared at her.

“Jeez, relax. I was joking.”

“Please, step forward. No harm will come to you,” the voice said.

“No more harm, she means,” Ravyn grumbled.

Janusz led the charge to the end of the hallway, then stepped into the final chamber of the dungeon. The constricted walls and low ceiling opened to an expansive room glittering with gold. Every surface was plated with the shimmering metal, enhanced by ornate designs shaped with tiny gemstones. A mosaic of a dragon splayed across the floor, the crown of its head vanishing beneath piles and piles of golden coins lying at the feet of the golden dragon herself.

“A whole bunch of stuff about Magni just started to make sense,” Ravyn murmured.

The dragon was larger than anything they’d ever seen. From her nose to the tip of her tail, she could easily fill a house. The tops of her wings brushed against the impossibly high ceiling, and a long, spiked tail wrapped around her legs. Her shimmering scales were just as vivid and blinding as the coins beside her claws.

“Oh, reverent one. We have answered your call.” Janusz dropped to one knee, bringing one fist to his chest in an honorable salute. He caught the eyes of his companions, who followed suit.

The dragon nodded her great head, then closed her eyes. Her gigantic body began to shrink and reshape itself. The tail pulled into her torso and the spikes smoothed along her dark skin. The flare of scales around her head grew into long, flowing locks of golden hair as claws turned to fingers and toes. The scales shifted and formed into a yellow dress of silk that pooled at her feet.

She approached the adventurers as a human, her smile warm and hands open at her sides. “I am Apalala. Please, rise. Consider yourself my honored guests.”

“Nani? Hang on a second,” Ravyn began.

​

Ravyn poked the human miniature beside the golden dragon. “Is she a [Druid]?”

“No, she’s a dragon,” Matt replied. He worked his jaw, then a sudden realization lit his eyes. “Wait, can [Druid]s change into Encroachers?”

“Well, yeah, obviously—”

“I want to talk to the pretty dragon lady!” Cannoli pleaded. “Please, please, please!”

“I, too, have questions of my own. We can speak of Nyarlean Classes later,” Ceres added, looking pointedly at Ravyn.

Keke raised her eyebrows expectantly.

Ravyn’s shoulders slumped, and she sighed. “Yeah, yeah. Apalala’s guests. Keep going.”

Matt laughed. “Apalala gestures for all of you to stand…”

​

Bunny rose to her feet, clasping her hands at her chest. “The honor is ours, Lady Apalala!”

Apalala smiled, resting a hand on Bunny’s shoulder. “I owe my thanks to each of you for your presence here, pure-hearted one. It has been three centuries since I have last enjoyed visitors.”

“Your messages were a gift, my lady. We have brought the items you requested.” Janusz slid the bag of holding from his belt and presented it to Apalala. “Might I ask their use?”

Apalala graciously accepted the bag, turning back the flap before feeling through its contents. “My magic, while powerful, is finite. Visiting my kin’s dreams, the mists you traversed, my lair’s many enchantments—all of this slowly sips from my pool of mana.” She pulled an ivory comb made from the tusk of a razor boar free from the bag, then drew its teeth through her long hair. With a contented sigh, she stroked the golden tendrils until the comb disappeared.

Bunny gasped. “I-it’s gone!”

Apalala laughed, then set the bag to her side. “There are many materials and elements in this world that carry a spiritual synergy with me, restoring my magic upon their use. Without them, I would not be able to enjoy the peaceful life that I do.”

“I have a question, if you wouldn’t mind, my lady,” Elona spoke up with a quick bow.

“Of course, dear elf. Anything at all.”

Ravyn snickered.

Bunny grabbed Ravyn’s wrist and shook her head.

“The college requested a map of this dungeon. They offered a great sum for its completion.” Elona pulled the map from her pack. “Would that bring harm to your existence?”

Apalala wrinkled her brow and leaned forward, closely examining Elona’s drawing. She carried a perfume of frankincense on her skin. “I understand the value of knowledge, truly. However, in addition to your rewards, I will double their offering if you do not share your experiences within my lair.”

Without another word, Elona shredded the map and held it out toward Ravyn.

“Don’t have to tell me twice.” Ravyn snapped her fingers, and the shreds of parchment burst into flames. “Though I’m telling you, we bring the dragon’s head back, and they’ll give us the city.”

Apalala turned to Ravyn, her expression dark. “You, infernal one, bring evil to my sanctuary.”

“Hey, no, wait a second—”

“I cannot trust you to keep my secret.”

​

“With a wave of Apalala’s hand, Ravyn turns to stone. Forever cursed to remain a treasure of the golden dragon,” Matt said.

“Hey! Baka!” Ravyn snapped.

“The rest of the group receives the following legendary items—” Matt continued, ignoring her.

“Matt! That’s bullshit! You know I didn’t say that in character!” Ravyn slammed her hand against the manual.

“Does he, though?” Keke asked.

“Keke is right. Your character has said such things since this campaign began,” Ceres added.

“C’mon, no I haven’t!” Ravyn looked at Cannoli. “Have I?”

Cannoli scooped Buttons up from the table, then slowly nodded.

“Critical failure! Squawk!”

“Not you, too!” Ravyn sighed and crossed her arms. “Kuso. Alright. I’m sorry. I didn’t mean it. Can I please take it back?”

Matt grinned. “Alright. Just this once, though.”

“Oh, what a generous god.” Ravyn rolled her eyes.

Matt cleared his throat. “Apalala thanks you for burning the map, then turns to her treasure trove…”

​

“For Janusz, my blessed kin, a shield that will protect you from evil.” Apalala passed Janusz a spotless platinum shield with a golden dragon emblazoned on its surface.

Janusz bowed deeply, accepting her gift with a stern face. “I shall wield it proudly, my lady.”

“For Bunny, the purest of heart, a silken sash.” Apalala stretched a garment made of shimmering, translucent fabric that changed from purple to blue depending on the way the light struck it. “This sash will shine as brilliantly as your good nature. Your foes will be blinded in your presence.”

“Thank you, Miss Apalala!” Bunny immediately donned the sash over her robes, fingering the brilliant fabric with wonder.

“For Elona, strong of mind, I grant you a token befitting of a warrior.” Apalala looped a chain over Elona’s head, careful not to catch her hair as she positioned the golden falcon pendant against the [Ranger]’s chest. “You shall find your steps faster and lighter. No longer will your enemies hear your approach.”

Elona clasped her hand over the pendant and bowed. “I will use it well, Lady Apalala.”

Apalala smiled and stepped before Ravyn. “And for Ravyn, the sharp-tongued infernal, I award you—”

​

“—a boot to the head,” Matt finished.

Ravyn’s jaw dropped in an incredulous stare. Keke burst out laughing, clapping a hand over her mouth as her face turned red. Ceres hid her laugh behind a cough.

Cannoli stared at Matt with wide eyes. “Matt! Ravyn helped so much! We couldn’t have done this without her! You have to give her something!”

Matt laughed and waved his hand in dismissal. “I know. It was just worth it to see that look on her face.”

“Baka!”

​

“I award you a ring of eternity,” Apalala said, sliding a golden ring encrusted with rubies onto Ravyn’s finger. “May your Spells always remain at your fingertips.”

​

“I can cast as many Spells as I want now?” Ravyn gasped.

“One. You can have one Spell with infinite casts. Second-level or lower,” Matt said. He tilted his head, a wry smile playing at his lips. “Wait, are you getting into this now?”

“I’m not—” Ravyn stopped, looking into the expectant faces of her companions. Pursing her lips, she groaned. “Okay. Maybe a little bit.”

“Yay! That’s wonderful!” Cannoli cheered!

“What happens next, Matt?” Keke asked.

“Apalala gives you the money she promised, and you make your way back to town. This Quest is officially complete.” Matt folded his hands on the table, looking at the girls.

“I wish to find our next adventure if my companions are keen to remain at my side,” Ceres said, examining her miniature before placing it on the picture of the tavern.

“Ravyn?” Keke asked.

Ravyn rolled her eyes. “Sure. Let’s keep going.”

The others cheered.

Matt smiled and opened another book. “Here we go, then. You hear a rumor that the college isn’t happy about the map…”

 

Chapter 216: Magnificent Trio

The return trip to Madhyam somehow felt a great deal faster than the initial voyage to Rājadhānī. Tristan chalked it up to a combination of things—Encroachers seemed to stay out of their way, the winds and sands moving in their favor, and everyone received at least one full night’s rest. With so many bodies, it was easier to split the night watch between all of them.

Tristan shared his gigashank with Zahra, and they filled the time with idle chatter. His thoughts were consumed by the immense amount of work that lay before him, not allowing for anything deeper than brief observations and inquiries.

Cailu had asked him to essentially resolve the same issues on San Island that plagued San Francisco; homelessness and orphaned kittens. Battling Encroachers and Defiled were one thing, but resurrecting a broken economy? That was a task that could take years of designing and implementing. Just how long did Cailu want him to stay on San?

When they did reach Madhyam, the group made a point to visit Ishani at Tristan’s suggestion. It was the least he could do for Zahra after all of her help. They were welcomed just as warmly as their first visit with Zahra’s mother.

“Three men in my house! What an honor!” Ishani fussed between them, her eyes glittering with wonder. “Please, allow me to serve you a small meal before you continue on.” She rested her hands over her stomach and performed the traditional bow.

Tristan returned it, and Cailu was nearly in sync with his movements. Tristan cleared his throat to catch Matt’s attention and was glad when he followed suit.

“It would be our pleasure,” Cailu replied. “Your daughter has been a tremendous help.”

Ishani straightened her back and clutched her hands to her chest. “You bless us both. Sands walk with you, sir.”

There was an unspoken rule on Ichi when someone invited you to stay. The guests were meant to relax and let the members of the household do all the work. But even with Zahra’s help, preparing anything for thirteen people would be no easy feat.

“Ishani, if you’d permit me to, I’d love to help you prepare everything.” Tristan smiled. “I know there are a lot of us.”

“Oh! Me, too!” Cannoli said. She’d been far more chipper during their journey back than Tristan had seen her in a long time. He hoped it was a good sign.

Ishani studied them for a time, eyes flickering to the full group as her tail rocked back and forth in thought. At last, she nodded. “Yes, I would be glad to have your assistance.”

“And mine, of course,” Zahra chimed in. “It is still my house after all.”

Ishani swept an arm over Zahra’s shoulders and hugged her daughter close. “Of course, my sweet. This will always be your home.”

They moved to the modest kitchen while the rest of the group made their way outside. Cannoli set to work on passing out drinks and preparing small plates while Ishani gave Tristan and Zahra instructions for cutting and seasoning meats. While they worked, Ishani’s questions began to roll in like the tide.

“We heard of Magni’s death a little over two days after it happened,” Ishani began. “An Ejderha arrived begging for Sanctuary. How did it happen?”

Zahra pursed her lips. “The Ejderha didn’t say?”

“It is best to hear a tale from a tongue you trust,” Ishani replied.

“Cailu challenged Magni to a sanctioned duel and won,” Tristan said. “He left the throne to Naeemah.”

“Then it is true. That is wonderful news!” Ishani stoked the flames at the stove, hooking a large pot over the coal. “And what of Sanrai?”

Tristan looked up from his diced onyans and over at Zahra.

Zahra’s expression softened. “Sanrai returned to the sands, Mother,” she said softly. “She refused to see reason.”

Ishani froze, her hand hovering over a ladle. A string of expressions passed over her face, her eyes searching into an abyss they could not see.

Even after the hell Sanrai had put them through, Tristan’s heart broke for her mother. He couldn’t imagine how receiving news like that felt, and he desperately searched for the right thing to say. Sanrai was powerful, intense, calculating. She’d driven them out of the city not once, but twice, and very nearly killed Ceres.

“Zahra did everything she could to bring her sister home.” Tristan was careful to keep his words even. “You raised two incredible daughters, Ishani.”

Ishani’s lower lip quivered, and a string of tears trickled from the corners of her eyes.

Zahra stepped forward and embraced her mother in a tight hug.

Tristan quietly set the knife down beside the cutting board and stepped into the hallway. He was surprised to find Cannoli on the other side of the threshold, hugging the doorframe and peeking inside.

Cannoli’s cheeks pinked, and she rapidly blinked her bright ruby eyes. “I-I just didn’t want to interrupt anything,” she whispered.

“I know. You’re not the type to eavesdrop.” Tristan grinned.

“Tristan… how do you do that?”

He blinked. “Do what?”

“You always know just what to say to make someone feel better,” Cannoli murmured. She looked into the kitchen and back at him. “Not just to me, but what you said to Ishani about Sanrai was so kind. Even though Sanrai was never nice to us. Not once.”

It was Tristan’s turn to blush. He ran a hand through his hair and crossed his arms, realizing only a second later that it was a gesture he’d picked up from Matt. He sighed and shook his head. “I just try to put myself in their shoes.”

Cannoli cocked her head to the side and touched her chin. “Why would you want to wear their shoes?”

“No, not actually wear their shoes.” Tristan covered a laugh behind his hand. “What I mean is, I think about what I would want to hear in their situation. Like finding you here. You wouldn’t want me to call you a spy, right?”

“No. I would have felt awful if you thought that.”

“Exactly. It’s important to see things from the other person’s perspective, I think. No real magic to it.”

Cannoli rocked on the balls of her feet. “You make it sound so easy.”

“It takes a lot of practice.” He leaned to the side, seeing if he could catch Zahra’s eye.

Zahra locked his gaze and waved him into the kitchen. Ishani dabbed at her eyes with a cloth and inhaled a deep breath.

“Back to work, then?” Tristan asked Cannoli.

“Yes.” She touched his shoulder and flashed him a brilliant smile. “Thank you, Tristan. For the advice.”

“You’re welcome.” He cupped a hand over hers. “Though, a smile like that will make anyone feel better, Cannoli.”

Cannoli giggled and ducked into the kitchen.

“Apologies for my poor manners, Tristan,” Ishani said as he returned.

“Please, you have nothing to apologize for.” He shook his head. “Besides, cutting onyans makes everyone cry, right?”

Ishani laughed, her mood brightened, and they continued to prepare the afternoon meal.

They were able to serve it in good time, and the conversation was light-hearted and cordial. Everyone seemed to be in high spirits and laughed easily. Tristan was happy to enjoy a meal outside of the citadel. The experience was a lot closer to an intimate family gathering rather than the battle strategy style meetings that every meal in Rājadhānī brought with it.

Tristan finished eating before the others and procured his sketchbook from his [Cat Pack]. With the enchanted pen, he sketched a smiling Zahra. Something about her had changed since they first met. She now carried herself with a grace Tristan recognized in Naeemah, and the determined spark in her eyes had changed to one of excitement. She’d succeeded in her mission, and it showed.

Flipping the page, he made one more drawing. A piercing, ruthless gaze. Lips slanted in a dry, knowing smile. Dark tattoos carved into umber skin. Sanrai looked as alive in his sketch as she did in the shadow of the citadel.

As the others readied to leave, he handed the sketches to Ishani. “These are for you.”

Ishani accepted both pieces of parchment, her lips parting in a silent ‘o.’ Eyes wide, she looked at Tristan. “You protected my daughter, and now you grant me such beautiful gifts. Tristan, I have no way of repaying you.”

“You already have, Ishani.” Tristan touched her wrist. “May the wind carry your desires—”

“And the sun warm your back,” she finished for him, clutching the drawings to her chest. “You are truly Saoirse’s gift to this world, child.”

As they departed Madhyam, Tristan let himself believe Ishani’s words, just a little. He knew he’d need them in the coming weeks.