Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

Opening the curtains, the view spread to the castle, down to the harbour, followed by an open, endless sea, where the sun was just rising. The sun was blinding his uncovered brown eye. Tivon loved the view from his window especially in the morning, when the sun shone on the grey stones of the castle.

Kingdom of Naydawin. One of the greatest kingdoms in Krens known for its big harbour and its key trading chain. The kingdom is connected with countless other kingdoms and empires around Krens and even outside of it.

As he gazed from the sea and the harbour toward the main road leading to the castle's entrance, he spotted a carriage. Two blue flags hung from its sides, adorned with a magenta stripe and featuring a white crescent moon and star in the centre.

The Kingdom of Lucine must be one of our most important alliances. Rea, the only daughter of the King and Queen, visits the kingdom every month for a few days. She has been my childhood friend and remains my only friend here.

Tivon heard a knock on the door. As he turned around it opened and a servant walked in, bowed his head and put nicely folded clothes on the chair.

»The princess of “The princess of Lucine is about to enter the castle walls. Do you need any assistance before you see her, Sir?”

»It’s okay, I’ll manage.« Said Tivon as he straightened his posture.

The servant bowed and exited the room. Tivon grabbed his clothes from the chair and got dressed up. Before he left, he took his journal and the coat hanging by the door.

As he stepped out of his room, he found himself in a large hallway adorned with countless paintings of his ancestors, cousins, grandmothers, and grandfathers. Suddenly, he paused in front of a prominent painting of a plump-faced man in his fifties, with light brown hair that was already turning grey. A wave of discomfort washed over him as he stared into the man's light brown eyes.

My father Urien, the King, ever since the... since the accident he changed. After that he never really cared for me.

He looked at the painting beside him. It depicted a much younger, slim, beautiful woman with brown hair. Her kind brown eyes filled the room with warmth. That woman is my mother, Gyla. She is the greatest person alive, and her love for me has never changed.

He quickly glanced at a smaller painting of himself next to the portraits of the King and Queen, but he turned away, unable to bear the sight of his own sad eyes. I'll be 19 in a month, and then I'll be crowned King of Naydawin. I'm a smart person; I've always excelled in my studies. But my father never taught me how to be a king or what I should do once I become one. Ever since the accident, he has stopped paying attention to me, my studies, and my freedom.

As he walked down the hallway, he glanced over the window towards the sea. I want to go outside castle walls, I want to see what's beyond. Don't get me wrong, I can go outside my castle, but I want to see more. I want to see and connect with my people and I want to know what’s happening outside our kingdom.

He walked down the stairs just as the carriage stopped. The carriage door swung open and a girl ran out to hug Tivon.

»Long time no see!« Said a slim girl, her blond hair tied in a ponytail playfully flopping around.

Tivon smiled. »Welcome back, Rea.« He managed to say when the pressure of her hug loosened.

Rea smiled back, but suddenly an older woman struck her on the back with a back of a fan, and scolded, »Maners!«.

Rea quickly fixed her posture, and as soon as the old woman turned to complain to the coachman about the late arrival, Tivon and Rea burst out laughing.

»I’ll just get into some more comfortable clothes and I’ll be right back with you,« said Rea.

Before Tivon could respond, she was already hopping towards the castle. A unique one. He found himself smiling at the thought.

Tivon looked up to one of the highest castle towers. He reached into his inner coat pocket and pulled out a journal that he went nowhere without. A perfect time for a little drawing.

As he sat on his favourite spot, the sun was already up high in the sky. Tivon had just finished yet another drawing of a map.

»I knew I'll find you here.«

Tivon turned around to see Rea standing behind him, the sun shining down on her light hair. She sat beside him and nudged his hand. »Future king, huh? In just a month!« Her hand moving across the sky as if she were painting something.

»Yeah... It's been on my mind a lot lately. Mostly because my father doesn't bring it up. I haven't got any studies or any guidance on how to be a king.«

Tivon's posture curled inward, as he wanted to hide his embarrassment.

Rea didn’t notice the change in Tivon’s posture. »That's probably because he knows that you will be a great king.«

»I guess.« he sighed. »I'll go talk to him right now.«

»Okay. See you later.«

Tivon smiled and made his way to the castle’s main hall where he found his mother reading a book and father talking to his best adviser.

»Father I wish to speak to you.«

The King didn’t even look up from his papers. »It’s late and I don’t have the time right now.« he gestured a the pile of papers. “As you can see.”

Tivon couldn’t ignore the change of his father’s tone when he said see.

»I just want to ask you something.« He was surprised to see his father look at him this time. Tivon continued. »I know I have to study about a lot of things and I’m not complaining about it, but non of them has prepared me for the responsibilities of being a king. I’ll be 19 in a month and when I become a king-«

»What?«

The tone of the question startled Tivon. »I’m rightful to the throne.«

»You, a king?« He started laughing, making Tivon uncomfortable. »That can’t be. You can’t be a king.«

Tivon’s voice began to shake. »W-what do you mean? I’m your only son, therefore there can be no other-«

»The only way you’ll become king is when you marry Rea. We already got that arranged.« said Urien, his tone too calm for Tivon’s liking.

He couldn’t believe what he had just heard. »But she’s my friend! I-I can’t marry her. I can rule here.«

»You can’t rule this kingdom in the state you’re in.« Urien replied, his voice rumbling through the castle halls. Tivon could sense the anger rising in Urien’s voice.

»In the state I’m in? W-who will be king then? I’m your only son.«

The King paused and looked at the Queen, quietly sitting by the window, gazing out as if she were afraid to join the conversation. »We already got that figured out,« he said, pointing at the belly of his pregnant wife.

My mother is pregnant? He started to feel uneasy, as if the room were starting to spin around him. He started questioned why his own father would not want him to be king.

»I don’t u-understand. I should be king.« he asserted, knowing he shouldn’t push the issue further. The anger in his father’s voiced served as a reminder.

»YOU ARE DISABLED! You can’t even see!«

It was the first time since his father mentioned his nonfunctioning eye since the accident, and he never imagined it would hurt this much to hear those words from his own father. Unable to bear ir any longer, he turned around and ran out of the room.

»You could of said that nicer.« said Gyla, quietly.

Urien looked down to his papers, as if nothing happened. »There was no other way.«

His room was simple. It had a bed, a closet, a desk with a chair, and his favorite spot by the window. The room was quiet, which he appreciated. He enjoyed being alone because it meant no one could disturb him while he focused on his studies and drawings.

But today, the quiet bothered him; the silence felt deafening. There was too much happening in his head, and the stillness of the room only amplified it. He tried to calm himself by sitting on the windowsill and looking out at the harbour. A knock on the door shattered the silence.

Tivon didn’t look up when his mother entered and sat beside him. For a moment, they sat together in silence.

"Did you know?" he asked, not wanting to make eye contact with her—or rather, he didn’t feel ready to.

Gyla sighed. »Yes... But I wasn’t expecting him to tell you like that.«

»He’s right. I could never be king.«

»That’s not true. You are the smartest kid I know, and I’m sure that one day you will be a great king.«

»Why can’t he see that?« He finally looked at her, surprised to see his mother’s smooth, perfect face so calm.

»I’m sure he has his own reasons. Oh!« She reached into her long sleeve and pulled out a tiny box. »I’ve got something for you.«

She handed him a box. When he opened it, he found a silver necklace adorned with the emblem of the kingdom - a silver lily.

»It belonged to your grandfather.” She explained. “He told me that to give it to the person I cherish and love the most. I was meant to give it to you on your birthday, but I fdecided to give it to you sooner.«

Tivon’s face flushed with a happy smile. »Thank you.«

She returned the smile. Gyla kissed him gently on the forehead before leaving the room.

Tivon put on the necklace tracing the line of the silver lily flower.

He dreamed of the conversation.

But this time it was not only his father yelling at him; everyone was shouting. He felt useless. He was useless.

Tivon woke up in pain, a pain that he had known since he was ten. It crawed from his back, through his head, and where the pain was the most unbearable - his left eye, covered by hair.

Tivon forced himself to sit up and reached to his bed shelf where he had his medicine. He grabbed the bottle, only to find it empty. Shit, I ran out. He sighed and forced himself out of bed. I hope I can make it to the storage.

It was always difficult for him to do anything during these pain attacks. Sometimes the pain was so intense that he couldn’t even walk. But today, he pushed through. He went to the storage room and collected some blue dry flower patal leaves. After crushing them, he mixes them with water that and drank it. Then he sat there, his body drenched in cold sweat, waiting for the pain to subside.

“Disabled, huh?” He caught a glimpse of his face in a reflection of a window. He hated looking at himself. Even with his eye covered, he could still see it. He hated that. He hated himself. So, he looked away.

Once the pain subsided, he took some flower petals and placed them in a bottle before leaving the storage room. On his way back to his room, he passed by his parents' room, which had the door slightly ajar. He could hear them talking inside.

»Just think about it. His disability shouldn’t be a problem.«

»I will not have some crippled, disabled child be a king of my kingdom.«

Tivon stopped. The words cut him like a lightning, leaving him paralyzed.

He could hear the shock in mother’s voice. »Urien! Listen to yourself. He is your son!«

»That degenerate will not be my son!«

That was enough to spur Tivon into action. Overcome with anger, he rushed to his room. He grabbed a bag and packed some essentials along with his journal. Before placing everything inside, he tore out any pages that bore the lily symbol. He reached around his neck to where he had his necklace. As he was about to throw away his mother's necklace, he hesitated; he couldn't bring himself to part with it.

He put it back on and hid it under his shirt. He picked up the bag and ran to the kitchen, taking as much food as he could carry.

Sneaking out of the castle was surprisingly easy because he knew about the secret tunnels that even his father and the royal army were unaware of. The hours he spent in the library had finally proven to be useful.

After walking for a couple of minutes, Tivon emerged from a narrow road into the large, quiet harbour, which was empty at this late hour. He looked around to see if any ships were about to set sail, and to his luck, there was one. He knew it would be heading to the Leeside because his father had kept records of every merchant ship’s trading routes, and Tivon had memorized them in no time.

Leeside would be far enough for now. He pulled up his hood and sneaked behind a man who was just about to load a barrel onto the ship. Once he got on board, he quickly made his way to the lower part of the vessel and hid behind some crates, next to a small wooden window.

Before long, the ship set sail. He peered out of the window at the kingdom he had grown up in, watching as it slowly drifted away from him.

"I want nothing to do with this kingdom anymore," he whispered to himself.

Chapter Text

Tivon was awakened by the distant sounds of a harbour. He couldn’t remember when he had fallen asleep, but he knew they were about to arrive in Leeside just by looking out the window.

The city was famous for its beautiful purple blossom trees. The residents of Leeside use the petals for a variety of purposes, including making tea and sweets, as well as creating colours. Additionally, the petals are used in medicine, as they are believed to help alleviate headaches.

As the ship landed, Tivon pulled his hood back up and sneaked away, unnoticed by anyone. Just around the corner from the harbor was a bustling market square. Tivon smiled; he was finally outside the kingdom's walls. The city's warmth and the beautiful white terracotta architecture, contrasted by blooming purple blossom trees, welcomed him with open arms.

The smile on Tivon quickly faded as he fixed his hood to hide his face. Someone may still recognise me here. I’ll just buy some food and find a new ship. Continuing his way, he visited the market where he purchased some dried fruit, a loaf of bread and a bottle of dried purple petals.

He made his way back to the harbour, searching for a ship that would take him far away from this place. His eyes landed on a large vessel flying a red flag with a blue cross in the centre. It was a ship from The Erast. The city he hoped to reach was about seven days' sail from here, situated outside of Krens, and his father did not have any trading agreements with it. He would be safe there.

Safe and free.

He approached the sailsman and asked him. »Excuse me, is this ship sailing to Erast?«

The sailsman looked down at him. »And who are ya?«

Tivon startled. »I-I’m David.«

The sailsman lowered his posture and yanked Tivon’s hood off. This is it, they got me. »You aren’t from aroun’ here, are ya?«

»I can explain-«

»Nothing is free. You’ll need to pay me 25 peiges.«

Tivon didn’t show it on the outside, but the relief he felt was indescribable. He paid 25 peiges and boarded the ship. The sailsman was kind enough to show him the part of the ship where the other sailors slept, as well as the other parts of the ship. Tivon felt honoured, but he was still scared that someone might recognise him, so for most of the sailing time, he kept by himself. He felt safer and more in control that way.

Five days had passed and there were only two days left of sailing. Excited to be back on land, Tivon actually enjoyed his time one the ship. The crew let him be, but they were still kind to him. Nobody recognised him, and moreover they, to Tivon’s relief, didn’t know much about The Kingdom of Naydawin.

He spent most of his time drawing in his journal. Every evening, when the crew gathered for dinner, he would listen to their stories about life, mystical creatures, and gods. After hearing their descriptions, he would draw the creatures they spoke of.

As usual, Tivon sat by the ship's railing, sketching a seagull that was flying by. He struggled to keep the pages of his sketchbook open and shield his eyes, as the wind grew stronger with each passing hour. Unintentionally, he overheard two crewmates conversing with one another.

»The Musha is comin’«

»Ya. Ye can smell it in the air. And the wind is gettin’ stronger.«

»It will be a rough night.«

Tivon was glad he had listened to the crew’s stories because now he understood they were talking about the witch Musha, who was said to bring rain and storms to the seas. However, Tivon knew better than these stories. He knew that storms and rain were merely natural phenomena, and the sailors, lacking education on the subject, had created tales of witches and gods to explain the events around them.

Tivon looked at the horizon, where dark clouds began to gather. If it's going to rain, I better go inside. He took his journal and placed it in the inner pocket of his coat before heading below deck.

Just as the crew had said, Musha arrived. Waves as large as mountains crashed against the side of the ship. Rain poured down like meteors, while lightning flashed, illuminating the grey sky and the dark sea. It was impossible to sleep amidst the chaos.

Tivon could hear every creak of the ship; each lightning strike shook the vessel and lit up the cabin. Sleeping in a net did little to help with the already rough rocking of the ship.

He wanted to get on deck and breathe in some fresh air despite the rain. As he stepped off the net, a massive wave hit the ship, causing Tivon to crash into a wall. He barely managed to catch himself by the ship’s opening just as another lightning bolt lit up the sky. Tivon thought he saw something in the sea. He straightened up and looked carefully again. When another lightning bolt illuminated the scene, he saw it—a black ship.

Tivon's heart stopped.

He listened to the stories the crew were telling. Throughout your entire sailing life, you could only hoped to avoid the black ship. Tivon looked more closely at the ship's flag, and dread washed over him. To make matters worse, the flag was black, displaying a red sparrow with a red rose in its beak at the centre.

The Rose Sparrow.

Tivon didn’t need to listen to the sailors’ stories about that ship because he already knew it was real. He understood that if your ship was captured by The Rose Sparrow, you wouldn’t live to see the next day. They were the pirates, the enemy, both within and outside of Krens. Tivon had heard about them from his father, and the kingdom feared them.

However, there was one particular person who they feared more. The Grímur... The Masked man. He was a ruthless killer, feared by everyone.

Just as Tivon was about to yell a warning to his crew, a blinding light, followed by a blast that struck the side of the ship, causing massive damage. The events unfolded in an instant. Crewmates scrambled around the ship, loading cannons, firing them, and grabbing pistols and swords. People were screaming, while medics rushed to help the wounded. The scene was pure chaos.

Tivon didn’t know what to do. He was frightened, shaking, unable to move. Before he realised The Rose Sparrows was beside them, pirates were already jumping down on to their ship. Tivon gathered all the energy just so he could to hide behind the barrels on the deck. Terrified, he helplessly watched as the crew was murdered. He covered his mouth, though he knew he wouldn’t be able to scream even if he tried.

The captain's door swung open, and a figure emerged, brandishing a knife at the captain's neck, forcing them out of the cabin. Meanwhile, the other pirates herded the rest of the crew to the centre of the deck, pushing them to the ground with pistols and knives aimed at them. Everything unfolded before Tivon's eyes.

»Please spare my crew. W-we’ll leave you everything we h-have.« stuttered the captain.

»Spear ya crew?« Said one of the pirates, his strong Ritherhithe accent  evident. He wore a big earring on his right ear and had a noticeable scar on his lip.

»That’s a first - a captain wanting to spare his crew instead of saving his own ass. What ya say boys!«

A loud agreement erupted amongst the pirates.

»Please spare them.« cried the captain.

The pirate, who had a knife pressed against his neck, pushed it closer as he said, »Shhh, I didn’t allow ya to speak.«

»Please...«

»Well ya begging pleases me. I will spare ya.« the pirate replied. He then moved his hand, and the other pirates began slashing the crew’s necks. Tivon needed to look away.

»No!« the captain screamed.

When the twitching of the bodies stopped, captain said. »Y-you... filthy pirates.«

»We’ve been called worse.« smiled the guy with an earring, as he thrusted the knife into captain’s chest.

When Tivon heard a big thud, he looked. There was his crew that he got to meet in the past few days, lying lifelessly on the ground, rain washing their blood away.

Tivon, you have to move.

At the side of the ship there was still one rescue boat undamaged. Move!

As if someone was pulling the string of a puppet, he moved his body, running towards the boat. Just as he was about to make it to the railings, a dagger flew in front of his face just missing his nose and hitting the wood.

Tivon froze, looking at the silver dagger with a red ruby in the middle of its crossguard, stuck in the wood right in front of him.

Suddenly he remembered that he is out in the open and when he turned around someone swung a sword right at his neck. He felt the tip of it at his neck.

Tivon started shaking, as he slowly moved his head up. There was a tall, slim person in a dark brown coat, his long black hair braided falling on his left shoulder, wet from the rain. And as the lightning struck, lighting up the figure, Tivon’s eye pupils narrowed.

He didn’t see a face. He saw a mask with red windings on it. Time stopped for Tivon. He couldn’t even feel his own heartbeat.

Standing before him was none other than The Masked man.

Chapter Text

Everything went quiet for Tivon. He didn’t hear the rain, the thunder, the waves crashing in. Tivon didn’t dare to breathe. He didn’t even answer when The Masked man said, »Where were you hiding?«

When nothing came out of Tivon he asked again, drawing the sword nearer, the point of it meeting Tivon’s skin. »Where were you hiding?«

»B-behind the barrels.« Shuttered Tivon, surprised that he even managed to answer him.

The Masked man looked at the barrels and back at Tivon. I’m done for. Tivon was ready to meet death, as The Masked man slowly lowered his sword and turned around.

»The boy stays alive.«

»Why do we need this shary?« Asked the privateer with a big earring. Tivon didn’t know what shary meant, but he could only imagine it couldn’t mean anything nice.

»He lives.« said The Masked man, his voice quick and sharp. The pirate just sighed disappointingly, yet Tivon couldn’t ignore, the slight tension of the pirate's body.

Someone forcefully lifted Tivon to his feet from behind. »Move shary.«

Tivon had no other choice but to follow their orders, scared for what might have happen next. So he remained silent.

He followed them on the ship and below the deck. As they were walking, Tivon gathered enough courage to ask. »W-what are you going to do with me?«

A man that had a scar over one of his eye, shoved him forward into a room. »None of yer business.« He slammed the door behind him, covering Tivon in complete darkness.

Tivon’s body was trembling - because of fear or cold, he didn’t know. He knew what the pirates could do to him, he saw it with his own eyes. The knowledge of The Rose Sparrows as the enemy of The Kingdom of Naydawin since the ruling of his grandfather, weren’t helping him staying calm.

Tivon shivered and sat down. I can’t stay here. I need to get away from here quickly.

He didn’t sleep. He was tired, but he didn’t dare to sleep. Tivon’s eyes were open, alerted at all time. The storm must have stopped, because he couldn’t hear any thundering or rain and neither did the ship rock anymore. The room had no opening so he couldn’t know if it was morning or if they were anywhere near the coast.

All of a sudden, a door opened, blinding Tivon with a morning light.

When Tivon’s eyes finally adjusted to the light The Masked man stood before him saying. »Come on, we have work to do.«

Without missing a beat, he turned around and left. Tivon followed him, too scared to disobey him.

When they came to the deck, Tivon realized that they have already landed, but not in a harbour. They were at sea where the depth of the water was still deep enough for a ship. On the shore Tivon couldn’t see any town or village, it was just woods. The Masked man showed him his place in a boat where other pirates were already sitting. Tivon sat down quietly, huging his bag close to his chest.

They lowered the boat into the water and sailed towards the shore. Tivon still didn’t know why he was alive, why they let him live. He didn’t even know if he was awake, or if all of this was just a dream. They’re probably just taking me to the woods to kill me.

He didn’t dare to look anyone in the eye, yet he stole a glance at The Masked man who paid him no mind. The only reason I’m alive right now is because of him. He wouldn’t just kill me now. Unless...

The boat hit the shore, and they headed into the woods. The Masked man was in the front leading the group and Tivon was somewhere in the middle, so he wouldn’t dare escape.

Tivon’s head was unbearable. He was contemplating if he should stay and possibly get murdered or if he should run away, which would also end in death. He couldn’t see the solution, where he could escape alive.

They were walking through a dense forest, still damp from the storm. There were only random rays of light coming through the tall trees. Tivon slightly jumped every time he heard an animal sound, followed by the laughter of other pirates. Eventually, they came by a path that led them to a considerable big stone wall. Tivon could hear a distant sound of people talking.

»Now’s your time.« Said The Masked man looking at the wall.

Tivon didn’t know what he meant, so he just stood there looking at The Masked man. At last, The Masked man turned and stepped away, so that Tivon could see a small hole in the wall, just big enough for him.

»You want me to go through that hole?«

The Masked man leaned on the wall, crossing his arms. »Yes. And when you get to the other side you’ll attach this rope to a building inside the wall and throw it over the wall for us. Could you do that for us?«

Tivon didn’t know if he was even capable of doing any of this, but he still nodded. The Masked man threw him the rope that Tivon later attached to his bag. He fixed his coat, stepped forward, breathed in and out and climbed through the wall. He underestimated the size of the hole. He had to crawl through it. In time he got through to the other side. He looked back through the hole seeing The Masked man and others looking at him.

»Now attach the rope to the building.« Said The Masked man calmly.

Tivon looked at the rope and took it in his hand. This is your chance. He looked back at them. Run before they can get to you. Before he knew it, he dropped the rope and started running.

He only heard angry screams behind him before he ran into a narrow street leading into an open wide main street filled with people. He didn’t think to stop. Tivon continued running not fully knowing where he got the energy or strength to do so. I need to get far away from here. He thought to himself as he came to a less busy street.

His back was hurting. Due to a childhood accident, his back was slightly crooked, causing him pain during physical activity. For the first time since leaving the kingdom, he wished to be back in the comfort of his room. It was your decision to run away, so now you needed to ensure it wasn't a bad choice.

He took a left turn, finding himself in a street with a dead end. Tivon stopped to catch some air before turning around to find The Masked man standing in front of him.

»A quick one are you?«

Before Tivon could say anything, The Masked man hit him with his elbow right in his temple.

Tivon woke up with a stinging pain in his right temple. He forced himself to sit up. He found himself in a prison cell. He checked to see if his bag was still on him. A panic rushed through his body when he found out that his bag and coat were missing.

»Don’t worry. Your bag and coat are safe in my cabin.«

Tivon almost screamed when he heard The Masked man, who was sitting outside the cell. Why does he always just appear out of nowhere? Tivon took a big step away from The Masked man.

»W-what do you want with me?« He managed, trying to hide the shaking of his voice.

The Masked man relaxed his posture as he began to explain. »Well, we wanted to use you for a job, because you are the only one who could fit through that hole. Anyway, we couldn’t do the job because a particular person didn’t want to partake part in it.«

Tivon looked away. »Why put me in a cell when you can just kill me?«

»I don’t need to kill you. You can still prove useful to us.«

Tivon had to smile to the irony of his words. What murderous monster would say that?

»Says the murderer.«

The Masked man sighed »I see you heard the rumours.« He stood up and pushed a plate of food towards Tivon. »Eat.«

Tivon didn’t moved.

»It’s not poisoned.« said The Masked man, as he opened a door and disappeared behind it.

Tivon looked at the plate with food and smirked. He didn’t want to eat, just out of spite. But he was hungry. He hadn’t eaten for almost a day. He pushed his grudge aside and pulled the plate to himself and started eating. When he finished, he laid down, the tiredness of the past couple days slowly taking over him. He closed his eyes and fell asleep.

The Masked man closed the door behind him, swallowing him darkness light up only by one fading lantern, lighting only his mask. He stopped before a table.

»You didn’t do the job?« Said a figure sitting by a table turned away from The Masked man.

»Unfortunately, something came in between.«

»Something or someone?” The Masked man could only hear the person move in his chair. “It was the boy wasn’t it?« His deep voice was rumbling through the room.

When The Masked man said nothing, he stood up and fixed his golden brass knuckles on his hand.

»It’s not the boy’s fault. I miss calculated-«

A big swung hit The Masked man on his left side of the face, knocking his mask off.

»If that boy causes any more trouble, this mask will have more purpose than it should have.«

The Masked man’s cheek was already swallowing from the hit as he looked him in the eyes. His deep blue eyes with a pinch of purple in it, were filled with anger. A wisp of black hair fell from his forehead. He took his mask and put it back on.

»That boy is your problem now.«

Before The Masked man left, he slightly turned and said »Yes.«

Chapter Text

Two days passed since they’ve put Tivon in the cell. Nobody came to bother him, and he liked it that way. He didn’t want those pirates mocking him. The only visit he got was The Masked man bringing him food, but he never stayed for long. He just brought the food and left.

It was like this every time, so it surprised Tivon when he heard the door open and then The Masked man unlocking the cell. Before Tivon could figure out what was happening, The Masked man chained one of his hands.

»W-what is happening?«

»You need some fresh air. Come on.« Said The Masked man, pulling him on his feet with one chain attached to his hand.

Tivon obeyed but still raised his chained hand up to his face. »Is this really necessary?«

The Masked man smirked. »You are quick. I need to take some precautions.«

When they reached the deck, the sun was just about to set, causing the sky to colour in warm red and orange colours. The sea was calm and quiet. Tivon didn’t realise till then, how much he missed the fresh salty air. He took a big breath. In just a second things seemed easier.

The Masked man took him by the ship’s railing and stopped. He leaned on the railing and took his mask off. Tivon almost panicked not really knowing why. It seemed to him that he wasn’t supposed to see his face. However, he couldn’t look away.

His face was almost perfectly shaped, a sharp jawline with a scar beneath it and radiant, slightly slender lips. He had elegant, bushy black eyebrows and long black hair that flowed in a loose braid, blowing gently in the wind. And his eyes…

Tivon had never seen such beautiful eyes. They were deep-set, oval blue eyes with a hint of purple, framed by dense black eyelashes. It was like gazing into a deep sea with glimmering purple crystals beneath it.

Tivon’s face heated up in a second, turning bright red. Embarrassed, he looked away towards the horizon. His voice cracked nervously. »W-why did you put the mask off?«

The Masked man barked out a quiet laughed. »You think I wear this all the time?«

Tivon paused. »Yes? I mean they call you by that name.«

»Elias.« he said, without meeting his eyes.

»Huh?«

Elias smiled and turned to him. »My name is Elias.«

Tivon relaxed his shoulders, mesmerized by his ocean blue eyes.. »I’m Tivon.«

In a second Tivon regrated even opening his mouth. Why did I tell him my real name?! He is going to kill you if he knows who you are!

Before he could do yet another stupid thing, Elias said. »That’s a nice name. It’ll be better than the nickname they gave you - shary.«

»What does it mean?«

»Short.«

Tivon was disappointed, but not surprised. »Of course.«

Tivon looked back at the horizon, but his eyes quickly found his way back to Elias’ face. Something bothered him. It was the bruised and slightly swollen cheek. »What happened?«

Elias pointed at his cheek. »This? Let’s say captains orders.«

»You’re not the captain?«

Elias burst out laughing. »Me, a captain? No.«

Tivon connected the dots quickly. »You got it because of me.«

Surprise washed over Elias’ face, quickly replaced by a sighed. »Well, it wasn’t just your fault-«

»I think I had enough fresh air for today.«

»But-«

»I want to go back.«

Elias didn’t say anything. He quietly escorted him back to his cell.

Tivon felt guilty. He knew nothing about Elias, but knowing that he got hurt because of him, didn’t settle right with him.

Elias unchained his hand and locked him back in his cell. He turned to the door to leave. »I take responsibility for my own actions. It was not your fault.«

Tivon only nodded and Elias left.

Is he just gonna be here every day or what? Tivon thought to himself as Elias sat down before his cell.

»You don’t have to be here.«

»Are you’re saying that you don’t enjoy my company?« Said Elias with a playful smile not even bothering to enter with the mask on.

Tivon knew if he said yes, he would have been lying. He rather enjoyed Elias’ company. The cell didn’t feel lonely. Tivon just shrugged at him.

»So tell me, what are you good at?« asked Elias, while he pulled out a piece of wood and started carving it.

»I’m smart.«

»Smart? Doesn’t look like that to me.«

»Oi!« Tivon gave him a annoyed look.

Elias ignored it. »It’s true. If you were smart you could already escape.«

»Maybe I don’t want to.« Tivon’s face cringed. I really should think before I say things. »Because I have nowhere to go.« he continued quietly.

Elias looked up, confused. »Huh?«

»Nothing.« Tivon turned away, but he could still feel Elias’ eyes on him. He chose to ignore him, despite Elias waiting for explanation.

Tivon’s back started ache. At first, he thought nothing of it, but the pain was spreading to his neck and head. He sighed. Not now.

In a second, the pain got so bad that he started shaking, pain rushing through his body in waves of heat.

Elias noticed the sudden change in Tivon’s heavy breathing. »Everything okay?”

Tivon’s breathing became more panicked and shallow. »I-I need my bag.«

Elias jumped to his feet running to his cabin. A fellow pirate crossed his path. »Hey Eli-« Elias pushed him away. »Move!«

He rushed into his cabin, picked up Tivon’s bag and ran back to the cell. Tivon was still shaking in pain, clutching the left side of his head. Elias opened the bag, finding all these different bottles. »Which one?«

»The blue flowers. A-and some water.«

Elias picked up a bottle with blue dried up leaves and grabbed some water. He gave it to Tivon. Tivon took a flower petal, crushed it in his hand, quickly mixed it with water and drank it. Elias was staring at him, anticipating what was to come.

»Thanks.« Managed Tivon after some time.

»Care to explain what just happened?«

Tivon breathed in. The pain was slowly subsiding. When his heartbeat calmed down, he explained. »It’s just pain in my back and head, I get sometimes. The petal leaves help to ease the pain.«

Elias was curious. »What happens when you don’t take it?«

The question shocked Tivon. After all these years it never crossed his mind.

»I don’t know.«

In truth he really didn’t know. When the pain first started it wasn’t so bad. But it has gotten worse ever since. When he finally found the blue flowers, he didn’t know what would have happened if he didn’t take them.

The pain had drained him of all the energy. »I need to sleep it off.« He turned to him. »If you don’t mind.«

»N-no. I’ll go.« He started leaving hesitantly.

Tivon noticed that he didn’t take the bag with him. »You forgot the bag.«

Elias stopped, smiled over his shoulder and winked at him. »You need it more than me.«

Tivon managed a smile and lay down. What happens if you don’t take it? He turned on his side and closed his eyes. I don’t want to find out.

Tivon couldn’t sleep. He thought about home, about his pain and Elias. He could choose not to bring him the medicine. So why did he help him?

Tivon reached behind his shirt, pulling out mother’s necklace. He missed his mother and Rea. They had to be the only two people from home that he cared about or that they cared about him. He remembered his mother telling him stories before sleep, even if she forgot she had already told them to him and he missed all the foolish adventures Rea and him had inside castle walls. He missed those days.

A loud explosion interrupted Tivon. He quickly hid his necklace and ran to the little window. He had to step on his toes to see through it.

There was a ship, close to them, firing cannons at them. Tivon had almost forgotten on whose ship he was on. The Rose Sparrow, an enemy to everyone sailing in these waters.

Panic rushed over him when he saw people jumping on The Rose Sparrow. As soon as he heard a thund the fight started. Pistols blazing, swords swinging, bodies falling. Damn, these pirates always picking fights.

The door to the cells swung open. Tivon turned away from the window, relieved that Elias came for him. But he didn’t see Elias. Tivon didn’t know this man, but he immediately recognized his uniform. He was the right-hand man of the Caershire merchant. The Kings friend.

»Well hello there.« He stepped closer and shot the cell's locker so he could enter. The cell was dark so he couldn’t see Tivon’s face.

Tivon knew if he got any closer he would recognize him. He didn’t want to be recognized. He didn’t want to go back to Naydawin.

It was too late. He was right in front of him, his pistol still loaded.

»Wait you are-«

Then he heard a loud bang.

Chapter Text

The man, standing in front of Tivon, fell down, blood spilling out of his head.

»You alright?« said Elias wearing the mask, still pointing the pistol at the man.

Tivon nodded, looking at the bloodied body beneath him. The Images of the dead crew overflowed his mind. Elias’ question interrupted it. »Do you know how to fight?« Tivon looked at Elias, confused still processing everything happening around him. »We could use some help.«

Elias took one of his daggers turned it around and handed it to him. Tivon looked at it and after some consideration he took it.

»Stay close to me.« said Elias, turning to enter the battle.

Do I know how to fight? Tivon didn’t want to figure it out, but he also didn’t want to stay in the cell with a dead body, any longer than he needed to.

He arrived on deck where chaos took place. Tivon couldn’t keep his mind straight with all the gunshots, swords and people screaming. Why did I come up here? I’m just going to get myself killed.

A man swung a sword towards him, Tivon barely avoided it. He then stretched out his leg, so the man tripped over, hitting his head on the railing. Well, I did something.

»Tivon duck!« Screamed Elias from behind.

Tivon’s body moved without him thinking and he ducked, just as he heard a pistol fire. A body fell behind him. Elias came to him, offering him his hand. Elias picked him up and pulled him to a safer spot behind the mast. »Not the fighter I expected, but that will do. You said you’re smart. Got any ideas?«

Tivon looked around. The merchant ship was attached with to their ship with ropes. He looked up to the masts. There were a barrels hanging from one of the gaff.

Tivon pointed at the barrel. »What’s in the barrels?«

»Gunpowder.«

»And does the gaff move?«

Elias paused for a bit. »If the ship takes a big sudden move-«

»Good.« Interrupted Tivon. »Tell the helmsman to move the ship to the left as quickly as he can when I give the signal. When he does that, the barrel will move. When it swings, fire at it. It will fall on their ship. The wind will help.«

»But the ships are attached.«

»Leave that to me.«

Tivon looked at him, Elias didn’t know what was happening in that kid’s brain, and honestly, he didn’t want to know. He just nodded.

Elias ran towards the helmsman. »When I give you the signal, move the ship hard left.«

The helmsman was confused. »There’s no way I can do that-«

Elias looked at him and said slowly. »Move the ship when I give you the signal.«

The helmsman, without further questioning, grabbed the helm. Elias looked at Tivon. Tivon nodded and ran towards the railings, holding the dagger tightly in his hand. Then he ran across the ship cutting the ropes with the dagger. When he cut all of the ropes he shouted, »Now!«

Elias grabbed his pistol and turned to the helmsman. »Now!«

The helmsman turned the helm hastily causing the ship to turn sharp left. The people on the ship lost their balance, falling over. Elias was prepared for that, he kept his balance and as soon as he saw the barrel swung, he fired the pistol. The bullet hit the barrel right when it was above the merchant ship. The barrel exploded, setting fire to the ship's sails. As soon as the ship turned left the wind moved the ship forward distancing itself from the merchant ship.

A victorious Ay! rose on The Rose Sparrow. Tivon glanced at Elias and he acknowledged him with a nod. For some ungodlike reason, he was proud of himself.

Suddenly the captain’s door opened, and silence fell on the ship. From the shadows rose a tall posture. He was wearing a bordo-red coat fastened with a belt, on it a pistol and a sword. His dark brown hair was short, but he had a long beard braided at the end, head covered with a big pirate hat with green and orange feathers. His ears were pierced with black earrings and one of his ears were chipped at the top.

His face was covered in scars. He wore one black boot, and the other foot was replaced with a metal leg. His slow movement and the rhythm of his walking startled Tivon. It reminded him of a slow heartbeat.

The captain looked rather young, but when he started talking, he sounded ancient. »What is all this commotion about?« He said with a rough deep voice.

He noticed Tivon still holding Elias’ dagger in his hand. »And why is he outside his cell?«

Before Tivon could say anything, Elias stepped in front of him. »I let him out. We needed help.« He pointed at Tivon. »And without him we would still be fighting and probably lost more man.«

Captain looked around the ship, where others were standing. He looked up to the helmsman. »Continue this route.« He turned around walking back to his cabin. »And get that shary back in his cell.«

»He doesn’t need to go back.« Interrupted Elias.

The captain stopped, he turned around, his eyes peering through Elias. »What was that boy?«

»He doesn’t need to stay in that cell-«

Tivon grabbed the edge of Elias’ coat. »It’s okay. I can go back.«

Elias turned down to him and whispered. »I’m trying to give you more freedom. What do you think you’re doing?«

»It’s okay.« Whispered Tivon back. »Just take the body out of the cell.«

Elias nodded and looked back at the captain. Captain turned around. »You heard him.« And then he disappeared into the darkness of his cabin.

Elias sighed and said »Nice job.« to Tivon before heading to the shed to take care of the body.

Tivon blushed. He wasn’t sure if it was because he just helped a bunch of pirates escape or because for once in his life, he received a compliment for something he had done.

Even though they cleaned the floor and removed the body, Tivon could still see it lying there. He avoided that part of the cell. Now that he got his bag back, he passed the time by drawing in his journal.

As he was drawing, someone was coming down to his cell. He quickly closed the journal and shoved it in his bag.

»You don’t need to hide anything from me.« Said Elias coming down the stairs, without his coat, bringing him lunch.

There’s a lot I have to hide from you. »I know. I thought someone else was coming.«

»No one is going to visit you if that’s what you worry about.« He gave him the food and sat down.

There was nothing much to eat. Some dried fruit and salted meat. After all, they have been sailing for almost three weeks. Tivon saw the many scars Elias had across his arms. Even though they were just scars, Tivon saw something beautiful about them. Unlike his scar. Elias watched him, almost examining him.

Tivon blushed of embarrassment. »Why are you looking at me?«

Elias had his beaming, playful smile that he always had when he wasn’t wearing a mask. »Your hair is getting longer.«

Tivon went through his hair with a hand. Elias was right. His messy brown hair was getting longer on his neck and over his right eye.

»I could cut it for you.« Said Elias. Tivon looked up and nodded.

Tivon didn’t dare to move. It wasn’t the fact that Elias was shortening his hair with a knife, it was because every time Elias’ hand touched his skin, Tivon blushed, wanting to run and hide away from him.

When Elias was cutting his hair on the left side of the neck, he saw an unusual scar going up to Tivon’s head. That’s an odd scar. He wanted to touch it and ask Tivon about it, but he knew better than to ask him about things like that.

He stepped in front of Tivon. He found it funny how his face turned even more red. He moved his hand towards his left eye covered with hair. Suddenly Tivon grabbed his hand. »Don’t!« Tivon quickly loosened his grip. »S-sorry… Can I-I do it myself?«

Elias lowered his hand and gave him the knife. Tivon turned away and trimmed his front hair just a little. When he finished, he turned back to Elias and gave him the knife back, looking at the ground, avoiding Elias’ eyes.

»T-thank you.«

The cell was filled with quiet awkwardness. Then Elias went outside the cell and before he left, he said. »Tomorrow we are going to land on an island for a week. I can get permission so you can get off the ship with me. It’s the least I can do.«

He was surprised to hear the excitement in Tivon’s voice. »That sounds good.«

Elias looked at him and smiled. Tivon blushed again and smiled back at him.

»Good night.« Said Elias while leaving the cells.

Tivon brushed his cut hair with his hand and mumbled to himself. »Good night.«

Elias walked out of the cells smiling to himself.

»Yer are spending quite a lot of time with that shary.«

Elias turned around to find the pirate with a scar across his lip and a big earring, leaning against the wooden wall of the ship.

»None of your business Pit. Get back to your work.« Said Elias annoyed, trying to brush off the creeps, Pit’s words left on him.

»Even if ya are the right hand of the captain you can’t order me around.«

Elias was prepared to threaten him, but Pit just turned around and left saying. »Just be careful about the shary.« He turned back to him. »Or someone else may steal him.«

When he left, Elias breathed in and out to calm himself. I must not let him get to Tivon.

Chapter Text

Tivon was excited to stand on hard ground in less than an hour finally. He was even more excited to spend more time with Elias. He quite enjoyed his company, feeling safe around him.

He is still a murderer, you can’t trust him. Tivon wanted to trust him. Oh, how he wanted to tell him everything, but he knew it would be safer if he didn’t.

»Morning!«

Tivon didn’t notice when Elias entered, being too occupied with his thoughts. Just be careful, he thought to himself.

»Ready to go?« Said Elias with a big, excited smile.

Tivon opened his mouth to say yes when a thought crossed his mind. He looked down at his clothes. He’s been wearing the same clothes since he left the kingdom. A rush of embarrassment rushed through his body.

»Don’t worry.« said Elias as if were reading his thoughts. He threw him a pile of clothes and a coat. He winked, »I got you covered.«

And then Elias just stood there, watching Tivon. For a couple of minutes, they just stood there watching each other.

Tivon blushed. »Umm. Can you umm turn around just so I can-.« He said awkwardly.

This time Tivon was surprised to see a slight blush on Elias’ face. »Oh, sorry.«

He turned around and patiently waited for Tivon to dress up.

Elias forgot how long he’d been standing there. A voice in his head was telling him to look. He brushed that thought away, yet after a few seconds, he still peeked over his shoulder.

Tivon was facing away from him, his back bare white and untouched by the sun. The smoothness of his skin interrupted a big, unusual scar starting at Tivon’s right hip, across his back to his left shoulder and continuing up on his neck and head. Elias only now noticed his back was slightly crooked. What the hell happened to that kid?

When Tivon put on a shirt, Elias quickly turned away, turning red.

As Tivon tucked a white shirt under his dark beige trousers, Elias put down his mask, and rushed to the stairs, trying to hide his distress. »Let’s go.«

Tivon put on his coat and grabbed his bag, happy to finally leave the cell. When he came out into the light, Elias stopped him and chained one of his hands to his.

»Just for now. When we’re alone I’ll unchain you.« he explained.

Tivon nodded in approval, and they headed towards the land. As they were walking off the ship, Pit watched them with an abhorred face. Tivon tried to ignore his eyes on him and stepped closer to Elias.

As they stepped on the ground, Tivon could still feel the waving and rocking of his body. »What island is this?«

»This is Dalelry.«

»I never heard of this island.«

They walked through a small harbour and entered a small-scale marketplace.

»It’s because not many sailors want to come here.« He took two apples from a stand and threw one to Tivon. He removed his mask. »This is our island. Kinda like our second home.« He bit into an apple and continued walking.

Tivon was curious. »So it’s okay for you to not wear your mask here?«

»Yeah. There are not many local people living here. The only ones who do still live here know me. Some of the crew members have homes and families here.«

They entered an overgrown tropical forest that was spreading wide and open around the small village. Tivon observed nature and noted every flower and animal around him. »What about you?«

Elias stopped. Tivon thought he made a mistake asking that question. He just wanted to reprimand himself, when Elias turned to him and unchained his hand.

“I don’t have a family,” he said, a bit sorrowful, but then he quickly smiled. “But I have a home.”

They were standing before a big rock wall, covered in vines and greenery. Elias moved the densely grown flower vines, revealing a hidden passageway. He moved his hand in a welcoming way for Tivon to go in first.

Tivon looked through the tunnel. From where he was standing, he couldn’t see the end. He took a breath and stepped in. Elias followed right behind him, dropping the vines behind them, making the passage even darker. Tivon moved forward, careful of his step. Eventually, the light from the other side shone its way in. When they came to the end of the tunnel, Tivon lost his breath.

He found himself standing in a lagoon, surrounded by a towering sheer rock face covered in lush greenery. At the top of the cliff, a waterfall cascaded into a crystal-clear turquoise lake, which then flowed into a river meandering through a dense forest. Although the sea was not visible from this spot, Tivon reasoned that the river likely flowed into the ocean.

Tivon was speechless. He had never seen such a breathtaking place. At home, he had the privilege to have so many different books with thousands of illustrations, but never did any of them show such a graceful marvellous place.

Elias passed by, giggling. »Come on. You hungry?«

Tivon was still looking around, trying to study and memorize every corner of the place. He looked at Elias and nodded.

»Follow me.«

They went towards the waterfall. »You think this place is cool. Watch this.« said Elias as he disappeared behind the waterfall. It seemed to Tivon like the waterfall swallowed him. He stepped forward to see where Elias went. He was kindly surprised to see another passage behind the waterfall. It was narrow at first and then it opened up into a big cave.

The place lit up as Elias lighted the lanterns. It illuminated a simple humble decorated cave. There was a mere bed, shelves cut into the rock, some barrels on the other side of a cave and blankets and clothes folded beside it. The cave was pleasantly cool.

»How did you find this place?« Asked Tivon after observing every corner of the cave.

Elias lit up the last lantern and took off his swords and coat. »I had a lot of time.« He looked at Tivon. »And I cannot just not explore the island. I can’t stay still.«

»Does anybody else know about it?«

»Just you.« Tivon was surprised. I’m the only one beside him that know of this place? »Do you want lenies or frones?« asked Elias.

Tivon knew what lenies were. They were big oval orange fruit, with a bitter taste, that left your tongue course. They were rear in his kingdom, and he didn’t like them very much. But frones, he had never heard of them.

»What are frones?« asked Tivon.

Elias threw him a big round purple fruit. »Peel it.«

Tivon peeled the purple skin off the fruit, and it came away easily, revealing a cluster of magenta berries. He picked one of the berries and took a bite. At first, it was sour, but as it melted in his mouth, it gave way to a delightful, sweet aftertaste.

Elias came to him and took one of the berries. »They grow all around the island.« He threw it in his mouth and winked at Tivon, who blushed again. Elias smirked.

»W-what?« asked Tivon.

»It’s funny how easily I get you to blush.«

»I don’t blush easily.« said Tivon as he turned even redder.

Elias looked over his shoulder. »You’re doing it again.«

Tivon frowned and looked away, hiding his face in the coat collar. Elias sat down, leaned on the wall and took a piece of wood he had been carving for the past couple of days.

»Where are you from?«

»W-what do you mean where I’m from?« asked Tivon nervously.

Elias laughed. »I know for a fact that you’re not a sailor. And you must be from somewhere.«

Tivon sat down. »Krens.«

Elias looked up from his carving. »Krens is big. Which part of Krens?«

Tivon hesitated for a moment, then said. »Yarrin.«

Tivon told part of a lie. He wasn’t from Yarrin, but it was a town closest to Naydawin.

»That’s near Naydawin.«

Tivon swallowed hard, almost chocking on a fron. »Yes. Do you know it?«

Elias continued carving. »I have never been there. I know it because mostly we steal from the kingdom merchant ships.« He looked at Tivon. »The Rose Sparrow and the kingdom aren’t, let’s say on good tearms.«

Tivon smiled, relieved that he didn’t know much about Naydawin. Or him.

Elias continued. »So if you are from Yarrin, how did you got stuck with us?«

Tivon lowered his posture. »I ran away.«

»Oh, a troublemaker. We like those.«

Tivon had to laugh at that. »Or I just wanted to escape from an unhealthy environment.« He looked at Elias. Elias wasn’t smiling, he looked worried. »Oh, it’s nothing serious. I just needed some freedom.«

»You call ’getting captured by The Rose Sparrow’ freedom?«

»For now it’s better than being at home.«

»Yeah... For now. « said Elias quietly.

An awkward silence fell inside the cave. The only sound there was, was the water falling and Elias’ knife carving through the wood.

Tivon broke the chocking silence. »And where are you from? Others have a Ritherhithe accent, but you don’t have it.«

»Most of them are from Ritherhit. Not all, of course. And me,« he made his final cut for that day and put the knife on a belt on his thigh. »I don’t remember where I’m from. I have been with this crew since I was six.«

He stood up and took one of his swords. He started waving it around as he was saying. »So, if you’re going to stay with us,« He stopped, but quickly continued. »Well, you don’t have any other choice but to stay with us. And if you stay with us you need to know how to fight.« He looked at Tivon. »And fortunately, you have the greatest teacher standing right before you. We start tomorrow.«

Chapter Text

What am I doing?

Tivon was following Elias down the path to a clearing in the woods. I don’t know how to fight. I’m useless. He looked at Elias walking in front of him. I don’t want to embarrass myself in front of him.

Elias stopped and Tivon almost crashed into him.

»We’re here.«

Tivon looked to where Elias was looking to. They were still in the middle of the woods, but there was a clearing, a big enough space to practice.

Elias turned to Tivon. »Do you know how to use any of the weapons?«

Tivon considered it. Before his accident, he had training. Sword fighting, bow and arrow shooting and learning to ride a horse. Finally, he said to Elias. »My father taught me something, mostly how to shoot with a bow.«

Again, he told part of the truth. His father did train him a lot before the accident. After that, he was never present in his studies. The general of the royal army, Ivan, took over his training. He was patient with Tivon, but because his vision passed on his right eye, he had trouble coordinating everything around him. Eventually, he gave up on that.

»Well, I don’t have a bow here,« said Elias. »But I have swords.« He took both of his swords from his back and gave one to Tivon. »Show me what you got.«

He lowered his sword and waited for Tivon to make his move. His elegant pose threw Tivon off the track a little. He gripped his sword and launched at him, Elias blocking the attack.

Tivon tried again, moving his sword the other way. Elias blocked again. Then Tivon took a big step forward launching his sword towards his right arm but missing him quite a bit. Elias didn’t even have to move.

»That would do if you aimed it a bit to the left.« Tivon sighed, knowing that it was because of his eye. »And you fight weird.«

Elias slapped Tivon’s left hand with a flat part of the sword which he had opened in front of him.

»You need to fight like a pirate.«

Tivon opened his arms and said a bit annoyed. »As you can see, I’m not one.«

Elias smiled. »Fighting is like a dance. Avoid my step.«

Tivon didn’t know what he meant by that, but when Elias stepped towards him, Tivon subconsciously stepped back.

»Good.« Elias smiled, and he stepped again. »Now, again.« Tivon avoided it again. He was focused on Elias’ walking.

»Now you do it.« He let Tivon take a step towards him, Elias avoiding him.

Elias carefully raised Tivon’s head with his sword. »Try not to look at the ground. Keep your eyes on me.«

Tivon blushed as Elias fixed his grip. He stepped forward, drawing his sword towards Tivon. Tivon managed to block it, following and avoiding Elias’ step.

»Hide your left hand behind your back.« said Elias and Tivon obeyed.

Tivon’s heart was beating fast, but he never felt more alive. The fighting in the kingdom was nothing like the fighting with Elias. He smiled to himself.

Elias noticed that and before Tivon could realize it, he grabbed his right arm and twisted it behind Tivon’s back Elias then pulled himself closer, rotating both of them around, one leg wrapping it around Tivon’s leg, enabling his movements, his sword gently pressed against Tivon’s neck.

They were standing face to face, looking into each other's eyes, their noses almost touching. Tivon’s face heated as it had never before.

»Don’t think about a duel as a brutal fight. Think of it as a dance.«

Something moved in the forest, and they heard distance talking, before Tivon could do anything, Elias released Tivon, put his mask on and chained his hand to Tivon’s. He did it just as the pirate crew came through the dense forest, Pit in the lead.

»Look who it is boys.« Said Pit with a big satisfied smile. »It’s shary and The Grímur.«

Laughter rose amongst the pirates.

»What do you want Pit?« asked Elias irritation setting in his voice.

Pit came closer to them. »Nothing, just checking on ya.« He looked at Tivon. »Don’t want anything to happen to shary.«

Tivon scowled at him. Pit turned around to the crew.

»Why don’t ya help us by the ship? The boys would appreciate it.« An agreeing Ay rose amongst them.

»Every time we land in Dalelry I have time for myself. That was the deal.« said Elias.

»The deal that no one was a part of.« Elias was ready to punch him, but then Pit said. »You shouldn’t even be here.« Elias stopped. »You should’ve been dead.«

Tivon noticed Elias’ fists loosened.

»You’re nothing special Grímur. You were nothing then and even with that mask, you are nothing.«

Tivon didn’t quite know what exactly Pit was talking about, but he could feel Elias’ uneasiness, so he stepped forward.

»Says the one who does the least work on the ship.« Everyone went quiet, even Elias looked at Tivon.

»What did ya say shary?«

Tivon didn’t know what he was getting himself into, but he had to do something for Elias.

»I said you do the least work. You just stand around stalking others who are just minding their own business.« Pit wanted to contradict, but Tivon didn’t let him speak. »I’ve spent enough time on the ship to notice. You enjoy bothering others. I think you are the one who shouldn’t be here.«

As he was talking, Tivon brushed his finger against Elias. Elias looked down and saw Tivon pointing up. Elias looked up and right above the crew he saw a rihhive, hanging from the branch. It was heavy with buzzing rihs and even a slight stir would cause the rihhive to fall on Pit.

As Tivon was mocking Pit, Elias carefully grabbed his knife attached to his left thigh.

»I think that others could agree on that.« continued Tivon.

Silent murmuring rose amongst them. Pit looked at them. Tivon persisted on, »And if I was you I would start to look around for myph leaves. You will need them.«

Tivon gave the sign to Elias, but he didn’t need it. He knew exactly what he needed to do. He threw the knife into the branch and the rihhive fell right on Pit. Tivon pulled Elias away into the forest.

Panic rose amid the group as the rihs attacked them. They started screaming and running away.

Elias forced himself not to laugh out loud. »Maybe you really are smart.«

A little rih flew to them, Tivon carefully put his hand in front and the rih flew on his arm.

»Rihs aren’t hostile bugs. If they didn’t panic and move that much, they wouldn’t attack them.« Said Tivon looking at the rih that then flew away.

Elias put his mask off. »What about the myph leaves?«

»If they sting you, the myph leaves help ease the pain and the swelling.«

»Good to know.«

Tivon stood up, but Elias grabbed his hand. »Thanks.«

Tivon smiled. »I had to do something. Now they won’t bother us anymore.«

Elias unchained them and smiled. »I think we had enough training for today.«

Tivon smiled back and nodded.

Tivon was lying on his back looking at the night sky. The night was quiet, and even though the waterfall was beside them, Tivon couldn’t hear it. The pleasant warmth from the fire suited Tivon. Elias came and put more wood for the fire down. He lay down beside the fire.

For the rest of the day, Tivon was thinking about what Pit said to Elias. What did he mean by saying that Elias should’ve been dead? He knew it wasn’t the right thing to do, but he still asked. »Earlier, when Pit said that you shouldn’t be alive. What did he mean by that?«

Elias was quiet.

Tivon knew asking him was a bad decision. »I-if you don’t want to talk about it-«

»You know when I told you I’ve been with this crew since I was six?« Interrupted Elias.

»Yes?«

»I don’t remember a lot of it, I just knew that The Rose Sparrow attacked the town I lived in. My parents and I almost managed to escape, but it was to no avail. I was kicking and moving so much in the pirate's hands that I almost managed to escape two times. I remember looking at my parents, they nodded towards my belt, where I had my father’s dagger.« Elias reached to his belt and pulled out the dagger. »My father gifted me this dagger. So, I took the dagger and cut the pirate's hand, trying to run away again. But he crossed my path. Sabur, the captain of The Rose Sparrow. He gave me a proposal. Join them and I live, or I join my parents, who were already bleeding out on the shore.«

He went quiet, gently tracing the red ruby on the dagger.

»Why did you choose to join them?« asked Tivon, but he already knew the answer.

»Because living is better than giving up... Better than dying.« sighed Elias.

»I’m sorry if you didn’t want to talk about it.«

Elias smiled and looked at Tivon. »It’s okay. It was nice to talk about it after fifteen years.«

»You never told anyone?«

»I had no one to talk to.«

Tivon looked at the sky. »Then why tell me?«

»Because I trust your stupid blushing face.« smiled Elias.

Tivon turned red. »I’m smarter than you.«

Elias put his arms behind his head and closed his eyes. »Yeah, yeah, we’ll see.«

Chapter Text

When Tivon woke up, Elias was already up, preparing breakfast. Because it was still warm at night, they decided to sleep outside by the fire.

Elias was crouching beside the fire and roasting a bird that he probably caught earlier in the morning when Tivon was still asleep.

Tivon examined him. Elias wasn’t wearing his coat, revealing all of his scars across his arms. Ever since Tivon first saw them, he took every little chance to see them again, studying each and every one of them. Every time he moved his left arm Tivon could see a bit of a tattoo on his wrist.

The bruise on his cheek had already healed, leaving a smooth surface. The fire was lighting his blue eyes that were focused on the fire. His long black hair was untied, falling freely over his right shoulder.

»Good morning.« He said his eyes still focused on the fire.

Tivon’s face got red in a second. »M-morning.« He stuttered.

Elias handed him the roasted bird. »You’ve woken up at the right time.«

Tivon sat up, taking his breakfast. »You could’ve woken me earlier to help you.«

»I didn’t want to disturb your sleep.« He took his roasted bird and sat down. »You looked too peaceful. And Shui wasn’t up yet.«

»Who is Shui?« asked Tivon.

»I knew you weren’t smart. Who do you think carries the sun around to make it day?«

Tivon thought that he was joking, but Elias’ face was too serious.

After looking at him confused, he said. »Day and night happen because of the rotating of the planet.«

Elias laughed. »Did you drink the water from the pond? You’re talking nonsense. Shui carries the sun around and her brother Morni carries the moon at night.«

Tivon couldn’t believe what he was hearing, but then he remembered the stories of sailors. Elias has been at sea since he was six, of course, he didn’t know anything about planets rotating around the sun.

»No. The planet that we live on is turning around itself and around the sun, because of that day and night happen.«

Elias lay down, crossed his legs crossing his hands behind his head. »Convince me.«

Fine. I’ll show you. Tivon stood up and grabbed a frone and an apple that were laying around in the shade. Elias turned on his belly and supported his chin on his hand.

»This is The Sun,« He pointed to a frone and then pointed to an apple. »And this is our planet.« He started turning the apple around. »We are spinning around ourselves, but we’re also turning around the sun. If we are here, and if I turn it, we have day and as we are moving and turning around, the night comes.«

Elias smiled. »You need to be more convincing Tiv.«

It was the first time he called him Tiv, but Tivon didn’t seem to notice it. He started explaining things all over again. Elias lost his focus. Since he met Tivon, he hasn’t spoken much, so it was a surprise to see him talk this much.

Elias stopped listening to him. He was watching him. His funny gestures, hopping around on the sand, his expressions and his lips. His plump lips talking about some things that didn’t make sense to Elias. He smiled and continued watching him.

Tivon continued to explain to him about the stars and other planets. Finally, he said. »Do you understand now?«

Elias got up to him and took the apple out of his hand. »I understand that this is an apple. And that it’s almost time for lunch.« He bit into the apple.

Tivon looked up and saw that the sun was already in the middle of the sky. »How long have I been talking?«

Elias ruffled Tivon’s hair. »Not long enough. Help me prepare the food.«

After they’d eaten some fish that they caught in the river flowing into the sea, they headed to the clearing in the woods to train. Tivon really wanted to learn how to throw knives and daggers as Elias did.

When they came to the clearing, Elias took his three knives that he carefully carried on his belts. »When throwing knives you first bring it in front of your eyes. When you lock the target you throw the knife a little higher than you want it to go.« Elias brought the knife towards his eyes and threw it in the middle of the tree trunk. He looked at Tivon. »Got it?«

Tivon nodded and Elias gave him a knife. Tivon prepared himself and then Elias stepped behind him, gently grabbing his hands. He lowered his head beside Tivon’s. Tivon froze when Elias’ cheek brushed against his.

»Now remember to aim a little higher.« Said Elias while leading Tivon’s hands. »Don’t worry if you don’t get it the first time.«

Elias stepped away. Tivon closed his eyes and concentrated. He breathed in and out. Then he opened his eyes and threw the knife. He missed the trunk.

»That was good aim a little more to the left.« said Elias.

Tivon tried again, this time throwing the knife too much to the left. Elias sat down and Tivon tried again, missing the tree trunk repeatedly. With every throw, he became more frustrated. Elias saw the irritation in Tivon. »If you need a break-«

»I’m okay.« said Tivon annoyed that he missed again.

Elias stood up and approached him. »If it would help, try to aim more to the left or right.«

Suddenly Tivon threw the knife on the ground and screamed. »I can’t aim!«

Before Elias could say anything, Tivon ran into the woods.

»Tivon!« he screamed after him.

Tivon heard Elias scream his name one more time before he got too far away to hear him. He didn’t want to stop. He wanted to run away as far as he could.

The words of his father came to his mind. He started to run faster. Disabled! Crippled! Degenerate! Tivon felt his tears coming out. He wanted to swallow them, but he couldn’t. He couldn’t stop them. He couldn’t stop hearing his father's words.

He didn’t stop running till the pain in his back got unbearable. Tivon stopped on a hill from where you could see half of the island and an open sea.

He sat down, wiping his tears away. He sat down and hugged his knees close to his chest.

Useless...

Seagulls were flying over the island, disturbing the calm silence. The sun was still up in the sky heating the island, but the cool breeze of the wind made it bearable. Tivon sat there looking at the sea trying to push the tears and the thoughts away.

Elias was running through the woods, trying to find Tivon. I need to find him, before it gets dark... or before somebody else finds him. Oh, please don’t let Pit find him.

He started to panic. He’d been looking for Tivon for ten minutes now and there was no sign of him. He didn’t want to scream his name, for others might hear him.

Tivon, where the hell are you?

He stepped out of the woods and there he saw him, sitting on the hill. It felt like a rock had fallen off his chest and he quietly approached Tivon and sat beside him.

After some time Elias said, »I’m sorry if I said-«

»It was not your fault, just...« Tivon went quiet. »My l-left eye is damaged, I can’t see through it.« He hugged his arms. »It enables my depth perception, sometimes it is hard to coordinate things. I’ve gotten used to it with time, but it’s still hard.”

Tivon knew this was unnecessary information for Elias, but he still said it. “Ever since my eye got damaged, my father started to care less and less about me.«

When Elias said nothing Tivon added, »I’m just useless and he always reminded me of that.«

Even if Elias wasn’t looking at him, Tivon moved his face further away from him.

»You’re not useless.« said Elias.

»How can you say that?«

»You don’t need your eye.« Said Elias looking at the horizon. He looked at Tivon. »Tell me. Did you need your eye when you helped us escape the merchant ship?«

After some time Tivon said. »No?«

»And did you need your eye to survive three weeks with The Rose Sparrow?«

Tivon moved his head. »No...«

»And did you need your eye to humiliate and scare the shit out of Pit?«

Tivon managed a laugh. »No.«

Tivon looked at him and Elias said. »Don’t let your problems affect you. You are more than your flaws.« Elias winked at him. »You are smart. Don’t forget that.«

»Thanks.« smiled Tivon.

Elias got on his feet and offered his hand. Tivon took it and Elias pulled him up. He wanted to turn, but Tivon gripped his hand. »Elias.« He turned around. »I’m sorry I yelled at you.«

Elias smiled. »Don’t worry about it.«

Tivon wanted to take a step, but the ground underneath him gave loose.

Before he knew it, he pulled Elias with him and they started falling and rolling down the hill. The hill wasn’t steep, but it was just steep enough that they couldn’t stop lurching downwards. Eventually, the level of the ground evened stopping the rolling bodies.

When they finally stopped, Elias was lying beneath Tivon, Tivon’s hands locked on Elias’ wrists. They were face to face, their noses almost touching. They were both breathing heavily, still processing what had happened.

Tivon blushed and wanted to pull away, but Elias grabbed his hands, not knowing why. He didn’t want Tivon to get away. He wanted him to stay. He wanted him to stay close to him. But why? What would I even do if he did stay? What would happen if I released Tivon? He didn’t want to know what would have happened. But he didn’t need to do anything, because Tivon suddenly pressed his lips to his.

Elias loosened his grip and before he could realize what was happening, Tivon pulled away. He stood up and started walking towards the lagoon, stumbling on his step.

»W-we should make dinner. B-before it gets late.« stuttered Tivon.

Elias was still lying on the floor, his face turning red, processing what had just happened, too stunned to get up. He lay there for a minute before managing to get on his feet. »Y-yes.«

As they walked towards the lagoon, Elias tried to calm his heartbeat and his rushing mind thinking about Tivon’s warm lips.

Chapter Text

They didn’t talk to each other the whole time they were preparing dinner, and they stayed quiet even after they’d eaten.

As they were sitting by the fire Tivon’s head was rushing. Why did I do that? What was I thinking? He peeked at Elias, who was staring at the lake. And he’s been quiet all this time. Tivon looked away. He probably hates me now.

After some time, Elias broke the quiet. »So does that scar go to your eye?«

Tivon rolled his eyes. I knew he wasn’t looking away back on the ship when I was changing my clothes.

»I knew you weren’t looking away.« Tivon hugged his arms. »It’s nothing...«

»Can I see it?«

Tivon felt unpleasant. »I rather you not.« He moved his face further away from him.

Elias stood up. »It’s okay. You don’t need to if you’re not feeling like it.«

I want to show it to you. I want to tell you everything... I’m just too scared.

He peeked towards Elias and if Tivon’s face wasn’t already red, now it turned crimson red. Elias was undressing his clothes.

»W-what are you doing?« Said Tivon, trying to look away, but couldn’t.

»Going for a swim.« said Elias and walked into the lake.

As he moved his braid over his shoulder Tivon could see the many scars on Elias’ back. If he had a lot of scars on his arms, then he had a whole universe of scars on his back.

Elias looked over his shoulder and locked eyes with Tivon. »Want to join me?«

Tivon’s red face frowned, and he looked away, annoyed that Elias’ teasing always got to him.

I don’t want to go, I don’t want to go, I don’t want to go... He looked at Elias, who was unbraiding his hair.

I want to go.

Here goes nothing. Tivon took off his clothes and quickly jumped into the lake dunking himself in, so his head was the only thing peeking out. Elias peeked at him and smiled.

Tivon swam towards Elias. The water reached only Elias’ hip. He was untangling his black silky hair. Tivon didn’t want to look into Elias’ eyes or anywhere else on Elias.

The water was pleasantly cool, and Tivon convinced himself that it was relaxing, even though his heart wouldn’t stop pounding and he felt everything, but relaxed.

To try not to think about it Tivon asked. »How did you get them?«

Elias looked at him. »The scars?«

Tivon nodded. Elias didn’t answer right away, as if he were hesitant to answer. Tivon couldn’t brush of his worrying stare. But then as if nothing happened Elias smiled.

»You know pirate stuff. Been in a lot of fights, I’ve fallen a couple of times and sometimes I like rolling down the hill with pretty boys.«

Elias didn’t know that Tivon could blush so much, but here he was blushing even more.

»A-aren’t you embarrassed?«

»What, being naked in front of you? Not really.« smirked Elias.

»N-not that. The scars...«

Tivon pointed at his back. After some thought Elias answered, »Not really. Nobody should be.«

He’s right. I shouldn’t be... Tivon turned around and stood up. Elias looked down on his back. The scar covering Tivon’s body was even more unusual from up close.

»I was ten when it happened.« Started Tivon. »My father forced me to go on a trial. He said it would prepare me for the future. I was supposed to go up this secret mountain near my home in the company of other people.”

“Everyone knew that it wasn’t a good idea to go that night because a big storm was about to come. Every single one of them was telling my father that I shouldn’t go. Even mother’s words didn’t persuade him. I was too scared and too young to disobey him, so I had no other choice but to go.”

“On my way to the mountain, the storm was getting worse and worse. I was wet, cold and frightened. I could still hear my father's words. If you don’t make it, don’t even bother going back. Of course, I could not continue the path. And then it happened.”

A shiver went through Tivon’s body at the memory of it. “A lightning struck me. From my head to my right hip. And if it couldn’t get worse, my horse that I was riding, threw me off and I fell down the steep hill, which crooked my back slightly. I wasn’t conscious after that. I was in a coma for almost five days. They later told me everything that happened afterwards.”

“My head and back were almost ripped apart. The wet and cold weather didn’t help with the already bad situation I was in. When they were carrying me back home, I got ill.”

“My mother tried to get me the best doctors around Krens. They could fix the scar on my back, and I did manage to recover. But a month later I started getting pain in my back, which got worse and worse with every year. None of the doctors knew how to fix that, even though they were the best ones around Krens. I was the one who figured out what helped ease the pain. I loved studying flowers, and I found out about Hyssopy flowers. Crushing their dried petal leaves helped.«

Elias was patiently listening, but his expression was full of pity. Tivon continued. »My father never looked at me the same after that. He blamed everything on me. The accident, the money spent on doctors and medicine and my uselessness. He never wanted to go out with me in public, he never allowed me to go outside my home. He disowned me. My father disowned me.« Tivon turned back around, but his look was focused on the water. »It didn’t just leave a scar over my back.«

Tivon took Elias’ hand. Hesitant Elias wanted to move it, but Tivon grabbed it with both hands. He pulled his hand towards his left eye, alluding him to move his hair. Elias carefully moved his hair uncovering a scar going through Tivon’s left eye.

»It crushed my eye.«

Tivon opened his left eye. The eye was colourless, unlike his right brown eye. But it wasn’t just colourless. The eye was cracked just where his scar was going.

»Ever since I got it I’ve hidden it.«

He remembered his father's words. Disabled! Crippled! Degenerate! His father made him hate it.

»I hate it.« Tivon wanted to look away, to hide the monstrous eye away from Elias, yet Elias held his face, still watching his eye.

»It’s beautiful.«

»What?« Tivon thought Elias must be joking, that he was saying that just to sympathize with him. But his face was telling a different story. Elias’ face was fixed on him, his eyes beaming.

»It’s beautiful.« repeated Elias. »I’ve seen countless scars in my life, but yours.« he brushed his finger on his cheekbone. »I understand why you would’ve hidden it, everyone around you was always telling you that it’s unusual, that you should be embarrassed about it. But you don’t have to be. Because of this scar, you are alive. Because of this scar, you are here.«

Nobody ever spoke to Tivon as Elias spoke to him at that moment. He was the first person who didn’t think of the scar as anything bad.

»I’m sorry if-« started Tivon.

»You don’t have to be sorry for anything. If it’s anyone's fault, it’s your father’s fault. No father should be like this. Nobody who does that to a person should be called a father. You don’t have to be ashamed of anything, especially not this. Your father should be ashamed of himself.«

Tivon smiled. He felt the tears gathering in his eyes, but he swallowed them down.

They were looking at each other, their chest close together. Elias gently put his left hand on Tivon’s face and pulled him closer. His lips pressed against Tivon’s. Tivon closed his eyes, stepping on his toes to reach his lips. Elias’ lips were warm and smooth, pulling Tivon even closer, his hands holding Elias’.

When their tongues touched it was like electricity moving through Tivon’s body. He never felt anything like this before. He could feel Elias’ heartbeat against his chest. Tivon wanted for this moment to last forever. He didn’t want Elias to stop when their lips parted.

Elias leaned his head against his forehead. »I’m sorry that happened to you.«

He opened his eyes, only to notice a silver necklace around Tivon’s neck. He took it in his hand. »How did you get this?«

»It’s my mothers.« Said Tivon still dizzy from the kiss.

»That’s the lily of The Kingdom of Naydawin. That necklace...« His eyes widened and he met Tivon’s panicked eyes. His face turned pale as Elias said »You are-«

Tivon grabbed his hands. »Please don’t tell anyone. They’ll kill me.«

»N-no. No. I won’t tell anyone.« stuttered Elias. »I just... I didn’t... You are the son of The King and Queen?! You are a prince!?«

Tivon stepped one away. »You don’t have to think highly of me.«

»Don’t worry, I’m not.« smirked Elias.

Tivon gave him an irritated look. »Oi!«

Elias smiled and hugged him. »But seriously, they must not find out. We aren’t on good terms with the Naydawin. If the crew finds out, they are going to sell you to someone or worse kill you on the spot.«

Tivon swallowed hard and looked up at him. »If they didn’t recognise me by now, I think I’m okay.«

»That’s true.« said Elias and smiled at him. »And I promise I won’t let them find out.«

Chapter Text

The sun had already sat low, and darkness of the night had covered Dalelry. Elias and Tivon were in the cave behind the waterfall. It was already quite late, but both Elias and Tivon couldn’t sleep. Elias was carving his piece of wood and Tivon was drawing in his journal.

Tivon’s mind was all over the place. It was mixed with excitement and hope but also panic and worry. He couldn’t stop thinking about the kiss. He couldn’t stop thinking about Elias’ lips on his.

Tivon looked down in his journal, where he was scribbling without thought. The whole page was filled with sketches of Elias. He suddenly closed his journal turning red as the sun. Elias looked up to see what startled Tivon. Tivon just smiled at him, trying to hide away the blush.

Elias smirked. That dorky smile. Must’ve made his day. Elias looked down at his carving. He was surprised to find himself blushing as well.

Elias made his final cut and said. »And I’m done.«

He stood up and put the knife back on his belt. He came to Tivon and gave him the piece of wood. The wood was carved into a bird.

»What is it?« asked Tivon.

»This is an ohil, an intelligent, but quite a rare bird. They are known as these tiny birds, who don’t need someone to depend on, but when they find a true one, they are loyal to them forever.« Elias closed Tivon’s palm, holding the carving. »It’s for you.«

Tivon smiled. »Thank you.«

He examined it for some time and then put the bird in his inner coat pocket. Elias laid down. Tivon did too, but they still couldn’t seem to close their eyes.

»So now that I know you are a prince, you ran away from the kingdom, right?« asked Elias.

»Yeah.« sighed Tivon.

»Must have been hard to leave the luxury of a prince’s life.«

»I thought that it would be hard.« he glanced at Elias. »But for some reason, it is so much better now.«

Elias sighed. »And all of this time I’ve been thinking that you are just another runaway.«

»Well I still am… Would you think of me differently if you knew who I really was?«

»It probably wouldn’t change, but I don’t know if I would have a chance to even meet you if others knew.«

»Do you regret that you got to know me better?« asked Tivon, slightly scared to hear the answer.

»No. I don’t regret a single minute with you.«

Tivon smiled to himself.

They were lying down in silence and then Elias asked. »Do you want to go for a walk?«

»But it’s the middle of the night.«

Elias stood up and looked over his shoulder. »Are you scared of the dark?«

»N-no.« said Tivon while standing up.

Elias took his belt with two swords, his coat and a lantern.

»So, are you coming?«

Tivon nodded and they headed out.

The night was pitch black and when they stepped into the forest, Tivon couldn’t see a thing in front of him. The only source of light was Elias’ lantern, so Tivon walked close by, trying to keep up with his pace. Eventually, they came out of the forest into the small village.

»Is it okay for us to be out in the village, unchained in the middle of the night?« asked Tivon.

»It’ll be fine, we just need to be quiet. And I don’t have a reason to chain you anymore.« He looked over his shoulder at him. »Unless you want to.«

»I’m okay.« smiled Tivon, not even trying to hide his blushing this time.

»I want to show you something. And teach you some things along the way.« Elias continued walking, and Tivon followed behind him.

The village was quiet and empty. The only sound disturbing the silence, was the footsteps of Elias and Tivon. Elias stopped by a decently bigger building than the others.

»Come here.« Elias showed him the way to the window, that was locked. He took two lockpicks out of his pocket. »I’m going to teach you how to pick a lock.«

»Is it okay to break into a building?«

»Let’s say we are here for a visit.« smiled Elias.

Tivon stepped closer. »The main thing about picking locks is that you have to listen to it.« He grabbed the lock and put in the two metal pieces. »You will hear these little clicks.«

Then Tivon heard a big click, and the lock gave loose underneath Elias’ hands. »And that’s how you do it with a simple lock.«

He offered him his hand and Tivon climbed into the building. The building was dark because there were no windows, except for the one they just climbed in from. In front of them was a big door.

Elias climbed in. »Now it’s your time to pick a lock.«

He gave him the metal picks and showed him the lock on a door. Tivon nervously took the picks and grabbed the lock. He put in the picks and listened carefully. Every time he heard a little click his heart moved. Suddenly the lock gave loose in his hand with a big click.

»Good job. If I’m honest, I didn’t know you could do it this quickly.«

“What can I say, a natural talent.”

Elias smirked and opened the door. They found themselves in a bigger room, its ceiling closing into a dome.

»What is this place?« asked Tivon.

»It was a church of the saint of this island. Saint Dalelry.« explained Elias walking towards the windows covered with curtains. »But it has been abandoned for years.«

»And why bring me here?«

Elias smiled and grabbed the rope of the curtains. »To show you this.«

He pulled the rope, opening the curtains. The light of the moon shone through the coloured glass window, hitting the little pieces of glass on the ground, which reflected the light on the ceiling of the dome, painting a colourful light image.

Tivon was speechless. The colour lights were reflecting in Tivon’s eyes. He looked at Elias, who was leaning against the wall smiling at him.

»How did you find out about this?«

»I was bored.« Shrugged Elias and went to the other side of the room. »But that’s not the only reason I brought you here. I was thinking about how to teach you to throw knives.«

»Elias, you don’t need to, you know I-«

»You could do it with your eyes closed.« interrupted Elias.

»What?« asked Tivon.

»You could throw them with your eyes closed.” repeated Elias. “You just need to learn to hear the movements.«

»And how do you plan on doing that?«

Elias turned and pressed a button on the wall. A loud click went from the dome and a bunch of paper birds tied to the ropes flew down the dome, circling the building dome.

»They were meant for the people, to believe that Saint Dalelry controlled the birds on the island.« said Elias.

»And people believed it?«

»Who knows.« shrugged Elias. He grabbed a piece of fabric and stepped towards Tivon. He gave him his knives and the dagger.

»Is this a good idea?«

Elias took the fabric in both of his hands and asked. »Do you trust me?«

Tivon looked down at the fabric and back up at him in the eyes and nodded. Elias brought the fabric to his eyes and tied it behind his head.

»What if I hit you?« asked Tivon nervously.

»Don’t worry about me. Focus on yourself and listen for the movements.«

He stepped away and Tivon focused on the movements of the paper birds circling them. He brought the knife in front of himself just as Elias had taught him and when he thought he heard a bird coming he threw the knife. He heard it hit the wall and then it fell on the floor.

Elias picked up the knife. »That was really close. Try again.«

He gave him the knife and Tivon released a breath. He listened closely and then when he heard paper flying by at his right side, he threw the knife again, this time hitting the paper bird.

Tivon raised his blindfold to see if he did it and to his surprise the paper bird was lying on the ground, the little knife stuck in it.

Tivon turned to Elias and shouted. »Elias, I did-«

Elias put his finger on Tivon’s lips.

»Shhhh. Yeah, you did it.« smiled Elias.

»Sorry.« whispered Tivon, happy and immensely proud of himself.

»Do you want to try again or did you have enough for today?« asked Elias.

“Just a couple of times.” He said sliding down the blindfold.

Tivon tried it again for a couple of throws, missing some, but hitting most of them. After the tiredness of the whole day hit him, he handed Elias the knives. Elias took his knives, but he left the dagger in his hands. »Take the dagger. You’ll need it.«

Tivon looked at the dagger and then at Elias. »I can’t take it. It’s your fathers.«

»I know. But you’ll need it more than me.« He started walking towards the door. »Come on, let’s go.«

Tivon smiled and carefully put the dagger on his belt and ran after Elias.

Pit was sitting on the roof of an abandoned house. He was drunk but not drunk enough to sleep it off. His body was achy from the stings. That damn shary and lover-boy. Who do they think they are? He threw the bottle on the ground in anger. It didn’t even shatter, which made him even more irritated. They think that they can do anything they want.

His plotting was disturbed by a quiet laughter down on the street. He looked down and he saw Elias and Tivon giggling at each other. He maliciously grinned. He’ll see. When I get that boy alone... He will be sorry that he ever made a fool out of me.

Chapter Text

When they reached the cave, the morning sun was already up in the sky. Tivon didn’t realise he was so tired till he sat down on the ground.

Elias put his swords and coat down and asked Tivon. »Do you want to eat anything, before you-« When he turned around, Tivon was already asleep, his head resting on the side of the bed. »Before you fall asleep.« Elias whispered with a smile.

He carefully picked him up, so that he wouldn’t wake him up and put him on his bed. I guess I can rest a bit too. He lay down on a bed on the other side of the cave and fell asleep.

Tivon woke up before Elias did. He thought that if Elias was still asleep, he could get them something to eat. He glanced at Elias to confirm he was indeed sleeping.

Elias looked even more peaceful and gentle when he was sleeping, his hair loses, falling freely. And he is thought to be one of the cruellest murderers. The thought of that made Tivon laugh, for some weird reason.

Tivon quietly took the coat and Elias’ dagger and silently left the cave. The weather was cloudy, and Tivon predicted that it must’ve been afternoon already. He went through the tunnel out into the woods. There he gathered some lonyes - round mushy sweet fruits.

When he gathered enough, he headed back to the lagoon and on the way back, he gathered sila flowers and leaves. Tivon knew that Elias had some rice stored in the cave. He decided that he would make Lonbuns, which were little rice buns mixed with lonyes and sila flowers, wrapped in sila leaves.

When he got back, he managed to make a fire, from the wood that had been there since yesterday. Tivon boiled some water on it. He quietly took some rice and purple blossom leaves from his bag, relieved that Elias was still sleeping.

When the rice was cooked, he mixed it with lonyes and sila flowers, wrapping everything in sila leaves and putting them in fire embers. He boiled another pot of water and put in the purple flower leaves, letting them soak in.

When Elias woke up and looked around to see if Tivon was still asleep, a quick panic rose in him when saw that he wasn’t there, but then he smelled something from outside. The scent was sweet, and it made Elias ravenous in a second. He headed outside, to find Tivon by the fire.

Tivon turned around. »Just in time. They are ready.« Said Tivon as he was taking the Lonbuns from the fire.

Elias put his hair in a messy bun and sat beside the fire. »What are these?«

»Lonbuns.« He handed him one of them with a glass of tea. »And tea.«

Elias bit into the Lonbun. Its flavour was sweet and mushy and with every bite you had a nice surprise of the sour sila flowers hit your tongue. Elias couldn’t help himself, he was so hungry that he ate it in a second. Tivon was pleased that he liked it.

Elias took a sip of the tea. »Where did you get the fruit?«

»Outside the tunnel.« munching down on his Lonbun.

Elias almost choked on his tea. »You were outside alone?«

»You sound like my father.« frowned Tivon.

»S-sorry, I didn’t mean it like that. It’s just... What if Pit was there?«

»What even is Pit’s problem?«

Elias sighed. »He’s... He has problems if I put it nicely. He can never mind his own business. And... I don’t want him near you. He is particularly fond of... small, young boys.«

A shiver went through Tivon’s body, swallowing hard on the Lonbun. »That’s unsettling to know.«

»Don’t worry, if I’m around he won’t do anything to you. Tomorrow when we set sail, I’ll make sure he doesn’t get near.«

It thundered. Elias and Tivon looked up, as the first droplets fell down on them.

»Guess we won’t be doing anything fun today.« Said Elias as he stood up and took the remaining food. Tivon followed him to the cave and right when they got there the rain started pouring down.

»Just in time.« Said Tivon as he sat down, still munching on his Lonbun.

Elias sat down. »Can I ask you something?«

»Yeah?«

»Did you know about me before you met me?« Tivon nodded. »What did you know about me?«

»Not much actually. Everyone described you as brutal and unforgiving, a murderer with no empathy that came out of nowhere. They call you The Grímur or The Masked man.« said Tivon, looking at his cup of tea.

After a minute of reminiscing he answered. »I see, the same story everywhere.«

»All stories wrong.« Finished Tivon.

»Wrong?« Elias looked at him. »They are true enough.«

»You don’t look brutal and unforgiving. And I never saw you kill more than maybe three men.« He stood up to put his coat down.

Elias had to laugh at how naive Tivon was. »The stories are true. I am a cruel, remorseless killer.«

»I don’t believe that.« Said Tivon his look fixed on him.

»You should. I’m dangerous.« He said quietly looking outside as it thundered. It was getting dark. »I’m just different around you.«

The glass shattered on the ground. Elias turned around to see Tivon on his knees.

»Tivon?«

Tivon managed to get on his feet again, supporting himself on the stone wall. »It’s o-okay.«

He moved towards the stone shelves, where his bag was hanging. His hand was shaking as he was opening the bag.

»Tivon, what’s happening?«

»It’s j-just the pain.« He took a big breath, his head hurting more with every move he made. »I just n-need the medicine.«

He fell, pulling his bag with him. Elias ran to him.

»I’m okay, I’m o-okay.« He said again as he supported himself on his elbow and opened the bag. As he was tossing around the bottles, panic rushed over his body, when he pulled out the bottle of his medicine, empty.

»N-no.« The pain hit his eye, and he slammed towards the ground, Elias catching him in time.

»Tivon, what is happening?!« Elias’ voice was full of panic as he realised that Tivon’s body was hot like it was burning from the inside.

»I ran out of Hyssopy f-flowers.« He grabbed his left side of the head as another rush of pain went through his body.

Elias could hear his voice cracking. »W-what can I do? Tell me how to help you!«

»There are some blue Hyssopy flowers o-outside. In the forest r-right before the village.«

Tivon moved his hand from the eye. It came out smudged in red. He was bleeding from his left eye.

Elias’ mind went into a spiral. I need to find that flower. He picked Tivon and leaned him against the wall. »I’ll be r-right back. Hold on for a bit.«

Without further hesitation, he quickly ran outside into the storm. He didn’t think about the coldness of the night or the rain blinding his vision. He was thinking about the flower, about Tivon’s shaking body fighting the pain. Hold on a little longer.

He came to the end of the wood near the town. He was frantically looking around. Blue flower, blue flower, blue flower. Then suddenly, in the corner of the eye, he saw it. The Hyssopy flower. He quickly grabbed a bunch and started running back to Tivon.

As he was running back, he suddenly crashed into someone.

»What the fuck-« Elias looked Pit directly in the eye. »You.« He said with a bitter voice. Elias could smell the alcohol on him.

When Pit saw Elias’ frantic face, he said. »Why the rush?«

Elias clutched the flowers in his hand. »None of your business.«

»Ohhh, is this for shary?« He stepped closer to him. »Huh? Is that for him, lover-boy?«

Elias pushed him aside. Pit continued. »Did something happen to him? Would have been a shame.«

Elias stopped.

»Maybe he is hurt because of you.« Said Pit with a smile.

Before Pit could notice, Elias grabbed his knife, launching at him. Pit barely jumped away. Before he could realize it, the next stroke of Elias’ knife sliced his arm, blood spilling on Elias’ face. Elias’ pupils were pinpointed, filled with rage, his expression cold. It reminded Pit of who he really was.

»Hey, s-stop-«

Elias punched him in the jaw. Pit fell to the ground. When he managed to open his eyes, Elias was on him, the knife pointed to his throat.

»Elias don’t. P-please.«

Pit was breathing heavily, shaking from fear. Elias was taken aback when he saw the flowers in his hand, beside Pit’s head. His pupils widened.

»Tivon!«

He released Pit and ran to the cave. Tivon was lying on the ground, shaking. Elias held him, breathing heavily.

»Tivon, I got the flower.« Tivon wasn’t responding. His body was burning hot. »Tivon? Fuck!«

Elias grabbed the water near him, crushed the flower in his hand and mixed it with water. He held Tivon’s head and poured the mixture into his mouth. Please work, please work, please work.

After only a minute Tivon’s body started to cool down and he eventually stopped shaking. His breathing came to normal again. Elias had never in his life felt such a relief. He hugged him tight. Thank all the Gods and Saints.

Elias had to laugh at himself. The cruel, remorseless killer, a murderer with no empathy was scared that this particular boy had almost died because of him.

Chapter Text

Tivon woke up, his body heavy and numb from the pain. Even though he had been sleeping since Elias gave him the Hyssopy flower, he was still tired. He was lying on Elias’ lap, blanketed with Elias’ coat, his hand resting on Tivon.

Elias was sleeping. He must’ve been so scared for me. Tivon didn’t want to move. He didn’t want to wake him up or rather he didn’t want to be away from him. It was comforting and warm.

Tivon looked at his hand. There was dried blood on it. He touched the skin underneath his left eye. It was also covered with dried blood. That’s new. He closed his eyes and snuggled closer to Elias. I don’t want to think about it right now.

Elias’, almost mechanically, hugged him closer with the hand resting on him. Tivon looked up, thinking that he woke him up. He was still sleeping. Tivon noticed spattered blood on his face. Is that my blood? It can’t be. But whose is it then?

Tivon’s mouth was dry. He wanted some water, but he didn’t want to move. Didn’t they have to be somewhere? Tivon rummaged through his mind. The ship. He suddenly sat up, waking up Elias.

»We need to get on the ship!«

»What ship,” said Elias with a yawn. “just go back to sleep.« He leaned on the wall and closed his eyes. He then opened his eyes forecefully. »Tivon you’re awake! You’re alright.«

Tivon smiled. »Thanks to you.«

»You scared me.« He looked at Tivon’s bloody hand. »And why didn’t you tell me that this could happen?«

»I didn’t know. This was the first time. And what’s the blood on your face?«

»Nothing.« Said Elias as he frowned and looked away.

»Someone was out there, wasn’t it?« asked Tivon.

»Maybe.« Tivon waited for Elias to continue. Elias crossed his hands and sighed. »It was Pit.«

Tivon sounded surprisingly worried. »You didn’t kill him, did you?«

»No... I almost did.«

»Great. Now I really don’t want to see him on the ship.«

»The ship...« Elias was thinking. »We need to be on the ship!« Said Elias in panic.

»That’s what I’ve been trying to tell you!«

Elias quickly got up and put some of his stuff in a bag. Tivon did the same, just a little bit slower.

»You can lay down, just tell me what you need.« said Elias.

»It’s okay. I’ll manage. We’ll just need to gather some Hyssopy flowers along the way. I just don’t know how to dry them up.« Said as he was taking Elias’ coat off.

»I can dry them in my cabin.« Said Elias putting his belt with swords on.

»You have your own cabin?«

»What can I say, they love me.« He winked at Tivon and took the coat from his hands. »Clean your hands and face.« Said Elias as he headed out.

»You too.« Smiled Tivon behind him.

On their way to the ship, they gathered enough Hyssopy flowers for Tivon to last for a few months. Elias put them in his bag, and they headed to the ship. Before they boarded it, Elias stopped Tivon.

»Tivon.« Tivon looked at him. »I promise I won’t let anything happen to you, but still... Be careful.«

Tivon fixed his necklace under his shirt and nodded.

As they were walking on a desk attached to the ship, Elias said. »You’ll probably need to work with us from now on. That means helping on the ship and when we land we do jobs to earn our own money, or we do the jobs that captain decides for us.«

»I think could manage that.« said Tivon.

Just as they boarded the ship, one of the pirates who always wore a bandana approached them.

»The captain needs you.« He looked at Tivon. »Both of you.«

Tivon looked at Elias, scared that they might have done something wrong, but Elias just looked annoyed.

They headed towards the captain's cabin. When they entered, the cabin was dark as always, the only source of light was the lantern hanging by the door.

»You wanted to see us, Sabur?«

Sabur didn’t turn around to see them. »Why is he not chained?«

»Because he doesn’t need to be. He isn’t dangerous and he won’t run away.« calmly responded Elias.

After that, there was a long silence.

»Fine.« Finally said Sabur. »But he will work.«

He turned around. He looked the same as he did when Tivon first saw him. Face full of scars, a long beard braided at the end, his ears pierced with black earrings and one of his ears chipped at the top. The only thing missing was a big hat with green and purple feathers.

»In three days, we will land in Bradfordshire.” Tivon only thought he saw Elias’ body tens up. “You’ll bring me this.« He slid a picture of a necklace, with a big green diamond in the middle.

»Bradfordshire is big, where exactly should we look.«

Sabur leaned back in his chair. »You are aware of The Green Woman?«

Tivon knew this wasn’t a question, but rather a confirmation. He looked up at Elias. He had never seen him this pale. Elias sighed. »Unfortunately.«

»It’s her sister's necklace. She is a frequent customer at The Jade Paradise. The necklace is worth more than the ship and all of you scumbags on it.«

»And how do you mean to get it?«

He turned around. »Figure it out by yourself. Shary can go now, Filp will show him his net.«

»He is staying with m-?« interrupted Elias.

»Filp will show him the way.« Said Sabur, raising his voice.

Elias shut up. He nodded to Tivon, and he quietly left the cabin.

When he was gone Sabur asked. »He needs to sign the contract.«

»He won’t be signing anything.« Replied Elias, anger in his voice rising.

Sabur turned around. »He is on my ship Elias!«

»You said it yourself. The boy is my problem now. He is under my protection.« He said with a cold stare.

»You’ve become too attached to the boy. Remember what your job is here.« He nodded towards the tattoo on Elias’ wrist. »Go now.«

He didn’t have to tell him twice, Elias was outside the cabin in a second, frustrated at Sabur.

He looked up the gaff, where Pit was sitting, preparing the sails for the ship to set sail. His hand was swathed in bandages. He was looking at him, but when he saw Elias notice him, he frighteningly looked away. He’s afraid. Good. It should stay that way. He continued walking down below deck as the ship set sail.

When Tivon walked out of the captain’s cabin, he didn’t know what to do. How am I supposed to know who Filp is? Tivon just stood there not knowing what to do. Fortunately, the pirate with the bandana came to him and said. »Follow me.«

Tivon guessed that that man had to be Filp. Flip turned around and started walking below deck. Tivon followed him and with the corner of his eye, saw Pit watching him from the gaff. He picked up his pace to catch up with Filp.

He guided him down and showed him his net among other hammocks at the end of the ship in a corner. It wasn’t much, but Tivon didn’t have high expectations, after all, he was on a pirate ship. Not just any pirate ship. The Rose Sparrow.

After spending time with Elias on an island, he forgot how it was being on a ship, filled with strangers, filled with pirates. He swallowed hard, his hand moving towards his inner coat pocket, where he had the wooden Ohil. It’s going to be okay. You’re going to be okay.

He sat down on his hammock trying to keep his balance as the ship set sail.

»You’ll have to get used to not moving too much in your sleep.« said Elias behind him.

Tivon turned around. »I don’t move in my sleep.«

»Oh, you have no idea.« smiled Elias.

Tivon frowned, turning red. Elias looked around. »Sorry you have to be here. Sabur is too stubborn.«

»It’s okay. I’d figured something like this would happen.«

Elias sat beside him. »Well, good news, we have a job. Bad news, I don’t like where it is and what people it involves.«

Tivon looked down. »Who is The Green Woman and what is The Jade Paradise?« He asked.

Elias sighed, steadying his voice. »So, Bradfordshire is a town known for shady people, crime, illegal activities, houses of pleasure and other bad stuff. The Jade Paradise is one of them. It is one of the most popular pleasure houses in town. It supplanted almost every other pleasure house in Bradfordshire. And The Green Woman is the owner of it.«

»Sounds illegal.«

»It is, but nobody in Bradfordshire cares. If there is money, they don’t care if it’s wrong.«

There was silence for a couple of minutes. Then Tivon asked nervously. »Have you ever been to The Jade Paradise?«

Elias fell silent. »Unfortunately, yes. Never as a customer. I hate that place with all my heart.” Tivon was relieved to hear it. »But it’s popular amongst our crew. Especially for Pit.« Continued Elias.

Tivon looked at him, scared for Elias to continue.

»The Jade Paradise is also known to be an all-boy pleasure house.«

Chapter Text

Despite the sea being calm and steady, it was still hard for Tivon to keep his balance in the hammock. Even if somehow, he could stay on the net, he couldn’t sleep with all the snoring of the crew.

Tivon was looking up at the ceiling, thinking about the job he’d have to do in almost two days. The acknowledgement that the job involves a pleasure house with boys, and even worse, Pit’s favourite place, didn’t help. And he knew it wasn’t just him being scared. He saw Elias at the mention of that place and The Green Woman.

He closed his eyes, trying to fall asleep. He tried to ignore the snoring, but it was too much. Tivon stepped out of the hammock and grabbed his journal. He went up on the deck.

Before Tivon stepped outside, he quickly glanced around if anybody was out there. There was no one, just the helmsman navigating the ship. Their eyes met, but the helmsman did nothing, he just nodded at him. Tivon nodded back and sat down on the stairs, leading up to the Forecastle dock.

The night was calm and quiet, the sky clear of clouds, showing stars scattered around the dark palette. The soft wind blowing through Tivon’s hair was pleasant, bringing the salty smell of the sea.

He opened his journal and started drawing the Dalelry from his mind. After some time, the captain’s door opened and Sabur emerged from the darkness of his cabin. He slowly moved up the stairs to the helmsman. His walking slow, with every second step, made with his metal leg, a tund echoed through the night. He whispered something to the helmsman and went back down the stairs.

As he was walking down he noticed Tivon watching him. He looked at him with a cold stare and then continued walking back to his cabin, closing the door aggressively.

A peculiar man. I wonder what happened to his leg and face. He continued drawing. Hours passed and the sun was about to rise when he finished what he was drawing.

»A shary with many talents ar ya?«

Tivon hastily turned around to see Pit leaning against the rail, looking down at him. How long has he been there? Tivon closed his journal and got up on his feet, ready to leave, but before he knew it Pit was in front of him.

»Why don’t ya show me?« He slightly brushed his finger against Tivon’s hand that was holding the journal. Tivon froze. He couldn’t move, he didn’t even dare to breathe.

Pit walked behind him and whispered in his ear. »You alright shary? Is there something ya are hiddin’ in that book huh?«

Tivon started shaking when Pit brought his hands towards his hair over his left eye. »Or maybe ya hiddin’ someone.«

»Pit!«

Pit turned around just as he was about to lift Tivon’s hair. Elias was standing on the Forecastle dock, peering through Pit with angry eyes.

Pit looked at him annoyed. »What? I was just talkin’ to him.«

»Talking huh?«

»I do less than you do to him.« finished Pit.

Elias jumped down the Forecastle dock, grabbing Pit by the collar.

»If you don’t shut up and go mind your own business, I will cut your arm off. This time I won’t miss.« Elias pointed at his arm, covered in bandages. »You need these hands.«

He released him and he quickly disappeared below the deck.

Elias turned to Tivon. »You okay?«

Tivon nodded, still feeling Pit’s whisper in his ear and his finger brushing against his hand.

»I swear I would’ve killed him already if we didn’t need him.« Sighed Elias and sat down, leaning his elbows on the stairs.

Tivon joined him on the stairs. »Why do you need him?«

»He is one of the best mapmakers and he has a great sense of orientation.«

»How good is he?« asked Tivon.

»Too good.« Said Elias, his eyes fixed on the rising sun. »What were you even doing here?«

»Couldn’t sleep.« Now that he thought about it, what was Elias doing on the Forecastle dock. »Were you here all night?«

»Someone has to look after the ship when everyone is sleeping.« He laughed. »Guess I’m doing a bad job. I didn’t know you were up here.«

Tivon smiled.

»I would say that just hold on for two more days and we’ll be off the ship, but I really don’t know what awaits for us in Bradfordshire.«

»Whatever it will be, I’ll manage.«

Elias ruffled his hair and headed towards his cabin. »I know you will.«

I will manage, said Tivon to himself as he was standing by the ship's railing, looking down to the harbour of Bradfordshire. If I managed it for these past three days on the ship, I’ll manage this job too.

Elias came to him.

»Do we have a plan?« asked Tivon.

»We’ll go to The Jade Paradise for a little visit and talk to The Green Woman.«

Tivon looked at him confused. »You plan to talk to her?«

»Yes, we will try to convince her to talk about her sister's daily schedule. There is a chance that we could get her alone to steal the necklace.« Said Elias, while the ship arrived at the harbour.

»You think it’ll be that easy?«

He shrugged one’s shoulders and put the mask on. »Probably not.«

The ship was tied and ready to disembark.

»We will see.« Said Elias, as he walked down the desk into the busy harbour.

Bradfordshire wasn’t like all other towns Tivon had been to. It really stood up to its reputation. When somebody told you that this town was full of unscrupulous, shady people, full of illegal activities and crime, anything you’d imagine for this town to look like, you wouldn’t be far from it.

The town was cramped with buildings, going up to three storages high. Most of the architecture was messy and drab. The houses closer to the harbour were mostly intended for shops, pubs and bars, hotels and pleasure houses. If you went further up the streets you could find small, cramped houses usually for people who could afford a house or an apartment.

The air was full of dampness and sometimes you would find yourself stopping to catch a breath.

If you could catch a breath. The town stank of filth that people were throwing on the streets, and they were probably crawling with diseases. The narrow streets were murky and overcrowded with people.

Tivon felt anxious walking up the main street. Everyone was looking at them, but that was probably because of Elias. Tivon almost forgot that everybody knew him as The Masked man. A man to be feared of.

When they were approaching The Jade Paradise Tivon could see more and more boys dressed up in beryl green coloured silk and sage-coloured chiffon and tulle dresses. All the dresses looked the same, the only thing that distinguished them apart was the different embroidered coloured bracelets. Tivon figured out that these boys had to belong to The Jade Paradise, just by the colour of their dresses.

The Jade Paradise was different from the buildings around it. It was four storages high, and its facade was light brownish green. When they entered the building two enormous people stopped them.

»We’re here to visit The Green Woman.« said Elias calmly.

»Empty your pockets. All weapons out.«

Elias started emptying his belts, putting his knives, swords, pistols and daggers on the table before them. He nodded to Tivon to do the same. Tivon took his dagger and put it on the table.

»The bag.« Said the man, almost twice as tall as Tivon.

Tivon showed him his bag and the man quickly rummaged through it.

»All clear.« He said to the other guy.

Elias wanted to pass by, but the man stopped him, wanting to grab his mask. Elias quickly grabbed one of his knives off the table, putting it on the man’s throat.

»The mask stays on.« He said with a wrathful voice.

He put the knife back on the table. The man just nodded, and he signalled them to follow him. They walked down a hallway with a door on each side of the wall. Weird sounds could be heard through the walls which made Tivon extremely uncomfortable.

Eventually, they came to the end of the hallway where they entered the room, which Tivon thought must be The Green Woman's office. Right by the door were standing two boys dressed in green tulle. The room was gloomy, lightened only by candles and lanterns. The windows were covered with green curtains, the room full of smoke-filled air.

In the middle of the room was a table filled with papers and pens. The woman sitting by the table was facing her back at them.

»The Masked man wished to see you.« said the man.

»Oh!« She waved her hand and the boys by the door bowed and left the room, closing the door.

The woman in the chair turned around. She was wearing a low-cut, brownish-green rich embroidered dress. Her neck was ornated with a big necklace with a big malachite crystal and a pair of matching earrings were hanging from her ears. She had dark brown hair put up in a messy bun, decorated with green feathers.

In her hand, she was holding a quellazaire with a cigarette in it. Her green eyes, covered in black makeup peered through them. Her bright red coloured lips grinned into a big vicious.

»Well, hello marily. Did you miss me?«

Chapter Text

»Did you miss me marily?« The Green Woman inhaled the cigarette. She looked at Tivon. »I see you brought me a gift.«

»He’s with me.« said Elias coldly.

She put down the cigarette embers. She stood up and walked in front of the table. The Green Woman leaned on it and asked. »Then why are you here for?«

»Is your sister in town?« asked Elias, walking around the room.

»Of course she is.« She inhaled while examining every inch of Elias.

»She still visits you?«

»Of course, marily. I would never leave my dear little sister.« She raised her chin. »What do you want with her?«

Elias turned to her. »I want to talk to her. You know eye to eye.«

The Green Woman laughed. »Eye to eye? Ha! That can’t be. Even if she wanted to, I won’t allow it.«

»Is she having those two guards even here?«

»Yes.« she said after a minute, her voice rougher and annoyed. »Stop beating around the bush Grímur. What do you want with her?«

Elias’ voice was calm, but it peered through the air like thunder. »I want to talk to her.«

»The only ones that can speak to her are my jade boys. You already missed your chance Grímur.« She smiled at him. »Unless you want to join.«

Elias rolled up his coat sleeve, showing her the tattoo on his wrist. »Can’t be cursed with two deals.« He rolled down the sleeve.

The Green Woman rolled her eyes. »Sabur…« She put the cigarette in her mouth. »Sorry Grímur, can’t arrange a meeting, she’ll only talk to my boys.«

She glanced at Tivon, her chin up, eyes narrowed at him. »How old are you boy?«

»N-nineteen.« stuttered Tivon.

She stepped closer to him, walking around him. »Nineteen and that small.« She moved his collar a bit down to see a scar on his neck. »Not ideal, but it’ll do.« She walked to her window moving the curtains. »I’ll take the boy.«

Elias turned to her. »Excuse me?!«

»You can’t come to me empty-handed. And if you want to talk to my sister, marily, that boy is the only way.«

»No. You don’t get him.« Elias' voice was full of anger and to Tivon's surprise, panic.

The Green Woman turned around, closing the curtains. »Then forget about talking to my sister.«

Elias wanted to step forward as Tivon said. »I’ll do it.«

Elias looked at him. »W-what? No.« He came closer to him, whispering. »No, I won’t allow it.«

»It’s okay.« He said quietly.

Even though Elias was wearing the mask, Tivon knew that he was panicking. Tivon looked at The Green Woman. »Can we talk somewhere? Alone.«

She studied him for a second and then nodded towards the two men standing behind them. They opened the door and showed them the room on the left. Tivon and Elias went in and in a second that the door closed, Elias put down the mask.

»Tivon, what do you think you’re doing?« he said with panic in his voice.

»She said that the only way we can talk to her is if I work here.«

»Yeah, I get that, but do you even understand what it means to work in this kind of place?! To be in this place?!« Tivon could hear the distress in his voice. He looked around. They were in one of the rooms. The coloured walls were covered in paintings, the floor was covered in carpets and pillows.

Tivon looked Elias in the eyes. »If it’s the only way, I’ll do it.«

Elias grabbed his shoulders. »You are selling yourself away to The Jade Paradise. You are selling yourself away to The Green Woman! And her sister is in the top rank. You’ll never get there in time.«

»Then tell Sabur to give us more time.« He lowered his voice and whispered to Elias. »I have a plan. We need to get some money from Sabur, with it you can bribe people to see me. If we pay them enough, they will leave me alone. Your position changes with ranking. Every customer gets to rank the boy at the end. If the rankings are high your position changes. We just need to bribe some people.«

Elias started walking around the room. »It may work, but I can’t just leave you here.«

»We can still see each other every day. I saw the rankings and the schedule in The Green Woman’s office. An hour a day belongs to each boy.«

Elias didn’t want to look at him. »You can’t just end the contract once you’ve signed it.«

»Don’t worry about it for now.« Tivon grabbed his hand. »Elias, do you trust me?« Elias looked at him, his eyes were filled with discomfort and worry, but he still nodded.

»I’m going to be okay.« Said Tivon, releasing his hand, wanting to leave. Elias quickly grabbed him and hugged him.

»Be careful, please.«

»I will.«

Elias put his mask back on and they returned to the office.

The Green Woman turned around. »So?« Elias slowly nodded. Her smile turned into a big grin. »Great!« She walked behind her desk and pulled out a piece of paper from the drawer.

She gave it to Tivon. »Sign there.« She pointed at the bottom of the page with her quellazaire.

Tivon took the pen and signed the paper. The Green Woman took it. »Ah, Tivon. A peculiar name.« She looked at him. »Welcome to The Jade Paradise.« She pointed at the man. »Walk the new jade boy downstairs.«

Tivon looked at Elias and gave him a reassuring smile, then he left with the man.

The Green Woman looked at Elias. »Anything else marily?«

“Can you promise me something?”

She puffed out a laugh. “My promises are not free. Try me.”

Elias turned around to leave the office. »If anyone by the name Pit comes here. Don’t let him see Tivon.«

After a minute of thought, she said. »You have my promise.«

Tivon silently followed the man down the stairs. As they ended, the room opened into a bigger hallway lightened up with candles. On each side was a small cell with a bed. They walked down the hallway and then the man stopped by an empty cell.

»Your clothes and the bracelet. When you change, come back to The Green Woman's office.« Then he left.

Tivon looked at the blue bracelet - Blue rank, the lowest. There were five ranks. Blue, red, purple, yellow and green. If he wanted for this job to go as planned he needed to get to the green bracelet. I hope Elias can convince Sabur to stay here a bit longer and to give him money, thought Tivon as he was dressing up in his green dress.

He looked in the mirror on the wall. Almost all of his upper body was visible through the chiffon. He turned around to see that his whole scar could be seen. I really hope this plan works out.

When he got ready, he went straight to The Green Woman’s office.

»Ah, you’re here.« Said The Green Woman with a smile. »Let’s get over some rules.« She crossed her hands and leaned her head on them.

"You probably already know about the rankings," Tivon said, nodding. "When a customer wants to see you, I’ll notify you. If they pay for two hours, you two will have a room for one hour. The customer isn’t allowed to touch or do anything to you for the first ten minutes. I’ve had too many issues with that in the past; it has cost me some of the boys' lives. Pity."

“After ten minutes, the client can do whatever they wish. You are not permitted to bring anything into the room, and the same applies to the customer. Everything needed will be provided in the room.”

“Every day, you have an hour for yourself. You still need to behave, as I prefer to maintain a good reputation. Whatever happens to you on the street isn’t my concern, so don’t get into trouble. Also, you need to stay within the radius of the pleasure house; I don't want you running away. If I find out you've been out there for more than one hour...” She shrugged, took a cigarette, and lit it. “Here, you're provided with three meals a day. If you don’t have work, you stay in your cell. I don’t want you wandering around the house.” She stood up and walked toward Tivon. “Any questions?”

»So the client can do anything to me?« asked Tivon nervously.

The Green Woman stroked him over his cheek. »Don’t worry, they won’t hurt you. At least they won’t do anything that could kill you.« She smiled, causing Tivon’s body to shiver. »You may go now.«

Tivon moved quickly to the door.

»Oh only one thing Tivon.« He turned around. She was smiling. »If you get any unnecessary ideas, there will be consequences. And you don’t want to know what those consequences are.«

Tivon nodded and closed the door behind him. No, I really don’t want to know about the consequences.

Elias was standing in the darkness of the captain’s cabin, explaining to Sabur the plan.

»We’ll need more time.« said Elias. »And money.«

»You have some guts to come to me and ask me for money.«

»Tivon just sacrificed himself, for your stupid job.« replied Elias angry.

Sabur leaned back in his chair and smiled. » The boy is your problem. Remember?«

Elias had enough of him. He raised his voice. »Do you want that necklace or not, Sabur?« He tried to steady his shaking voice. He continued, his voice quiet. “You’ve already broken the promise. You said I’ll never have to see her again.”

Sabur went silent for a bit and then he grabbed a sack of money from his drawer and put it on the table. »I give you two weeks.«

Elias tried to grab the sack, but Sabur stopped him. He looked him dead in the eyes. »If I don’t get that necklace in time, the boy won’t be your problem anymore. I’ll make sure of it.«

He released the sack. Elias grabbed it, put his mask on and left.

»If you fail, I will kill the boy.« He leaned back. »If you even manage to get him back from The Green Woman.«

Chapter Text

When Tivon woke up, the food was already waiting in front of his cell. He shoved the curtains away and took the food. On the plate, there was a bowl of rice and a bread roll.

His sleep wasn’t pleasant. The cells didn’t have doors, they were only covered with curtains, meaning that he could hear everything. The whole night he was thinking if Elias managed to convince Sabur to stay here. He felt panic rise in his chest when the thought that The Rose Sparrow had already left crossed his mind. He wouldn’t leave me here.

Just as he finished eating, a bell on the wall of his cell rang. That meant that The Green Woman needed him. He put the plate on the side and headed to her office.

The office was still full of smoke-filled air, but the curtains were folded, bringing the morning light into the room. Tivon didn’t like coming to this room, it didn’t settle well with him.

The Green Woman was standing by the window. »You have your first customer. He’s already waiting for you in room four.« She looked at him with a vile smile. »Don’t disappoint me. Now hurry up, you don’t want your client to be waiting.«

Tivon quickly bowed and rushed to room four. I hope it’s someone Elias bribed in. When he opened the door an older man with a kerchief on his head was standing by the window. Tivon bowed and when he looked up, he was relieved to see the helmsman of The Rose Sparrow. He smiled at him.

»You don’t need to be polite with me, Elias explained everything to me.«

»Oh, okay.« Helmsman sat down on the chair by the window.

»I never caught your name.« Said Tivon.

»Nick. And you’re Tivon, right?«

Tivon nodded and sat on the other chair. There was a table in front of them and on it was a board. On one side there were black squared discs and on the other red squared discs. Nick noticed Tivon looking at it.

»Do you know how to play Elphaty?« asked Nick.

Tivon nodded. He played it with Rea on rainy days. It was somewhat like chess. You had a queen and with each move, you had to protect it, by drawing a pattern with your disks.

They prepared the game and started playing.

»How long have you been on The Rose Sparrow?« asked Tivon as he placed one of the disks on the board.

»Since I could remember.« He fixed his kerchief and placed a black disk on the board. »I still remember when Sabur brought Elias on that ship.«

»What was he like?«

Nick looked at Tivon. »Like you. Scared.« He looked back at the board. »But he was hiding it. He had just been stripped away from his parents. I knew there was something different about that boy. Sabur wouldn’t let him live if he didn’t see something in him.« He sighed. »Unfortunately, he saw a potential killer in him. And he made a killer out of him.«

He placed his last disk, winning the game. »Want to go again?«

»Yes.« Said Tivon and they started over again. »Did he ever try to escape?«

Nick laughed. »Numerous times.« He moved his sleeve showing the tattoo on his wrist, the same as Elias’. »But once you made the deal, you can’t run away from it.«

»But why make a deal with pirates?«

»You don’t have a choice. Either you die or someone else takes you.«

Tivon remembered when yesterday Elias showed The Green Woman his tattoo.

»Does The Green Woman want Elias?« questioned Tivon.

Nick hesitated for a second, a lump forming in his throat. He swallowed hard. »Yeah, she wanted to have him.« Nick placed the last disk, winning again. »But Sabur was quicker.«

»How are you so good at this game?«

Nick smiled. »One of my favourite games.« He stood up and looked at his pocket watch. »I’ll have to go.« He walked to the doors. »Hope this plan of yours works kid. I don’t want you stuck here.” He looked around the room before he opened the door. “This is a bad place.«

He wanted to go, but Tivon stopped him. »Nick!« He turned around. »Thank you.«

He returned the smile. »No worry kid.« He opened the door, but before he left, he turned to Tivon and said. »Elias is waiting for you on the Fedir ally. There’s a door with a red mark on it. You’ll find the stairs there. He’ll be waiting for you.«

He turned and closed the door before Tivon could say thank you to him again. He was glad that there were still some good people on The Red Sparrow. And if Nick was here, that meant the ship was still in the harbour. After a whole night of doubt crossing his mind, Tivon felt hopeful again.

Till afternoon when he had his one hour of free time, Tivon had no more customers, so he took one of The Jade Paradises silk hoods and headed outside. The Fedir ally. Fortunately, there was a sign pointing to streets across Bradfordshire. The Fedir ally was towards the west side of the town.

When he was walking to it, he tried to avoid bumping into people. His eyes were fixed on the ground, but he could still feel other eyes on him.

At last, he arrived at the house, with a sign Fedir ally and on the right side of the house there was a street. Tivon walked in it. The alleyway was narrow and nobody was walking there. Tivon picked up his step looking around for a red mark on the door. Eventually, he came across it. He opened the door and just like Nick said, there was a staircase leading to the trapdoor.

As he walked to the stairs he stopped, doubt came rushing into Tivon’s mind. What if Nick lied? Was he about to get murdered? He remembered the words of The Green Woman ’Whatever happens to you on the street isn’t my problem, so don’t get in trouble’.

Tivon carefully went up the stairs. Before he opened the trapdoor, he took a breath and slowly and quietly opened it.

There was a small room barely enough for a bed, closet, and a table with two chairs.

»Tivon?«

Tivon fully opened the trapdoor and turned around. Elias was standing by the window. He smiled at him. »I see, the meeting with Nick went well.«

He came to him and offered him a hand for Tivon to climb into the room. Elias suddenly blushed while looking at Tivon. The tulle silky dress just barely covered up his skin. He quickly turned away so Tivon couldn’t see his face.

»U-umm, do you want to eat something?« He started looking through the bag for food.

»Not really.« said Tivon.

Elias put some dried fruit on the table. Tivon sat down.

»How much did you pay Nick to visit me?«

Elias sat down, avoiding Tivon’s eyes. »He said he will pay himself.«

»He’s a good man.«

»A rarity on The Rose Sparrow. In the evening, I have an older lady for you. She lives here in Bradfordshire. You’ll like her, she is nice. The only thing is, she can’t talk. For other days I will have to find people. The problem is not getting people, but getting the right people.« Said Elias with a sigh.

»Yeah. We’ll make it somehow.« Smiled Tivon, he looked around the room. »How did you get this room? Isn’t it hard to get an apartment here?«?

»Oh, someone lives here.«

»What?« Said Tivon now scared that he had just broken in someone's place.

»He’s not actually living here. At the time he is in Galssop.« said Elias calmly.

»How did you get the key?«

Elias put his feet on the table and leaned in his chair. He raised his hand and lockpicks on rope fell from them.

»Oh, of course.« Said Tivon, rolling his eyes, but still smiling.

»Did anything unusual happen to you?« asked Elias.

Tivon took one of the dried fruits off the table and ate it. »For now, no.«

»If anything does happen, tell me.« He put his feet down. »I’m prepared to burn that whole place down to get you out.«

Tivon had to laugh. He wasn’t used to people caring for him to the point where they would commit arson for him. He noticed Elias hadn’t looked at him since he came.

»You’re avoiding me.« Said Tivon with a giggly smile.

»No, I’m not.« Said Elias, blushing.

He is. Tivon smiled and removed his silk hood. He leaned on the table. Elias’ eyes moved towards him, but he quickly looked away. Tivon giggled.

»Stop it.« Elias’ face turned red.

Tivon giggled again took one of the dried fruits and ate it. His look was fixed on Elias.

»Okay, enough fruits for you.« He took the dried fruit and pulled them toward himself. He smirked at him.

Tivon stood up and walked past him, eyes still fixed on him. He could see the panic in Elias’ eyes. He moved his hand towards the dried fruit, the chiffon sliding against Elias’ bare hand.

»Stop me.« said Tivon taking the fruit and putting it in his mouth.

Their eyes were fixed on each other. Checkmate, I win. Elias pushed the dried fruits towards him and looked away. »You win.«

Tivon started laughing and Elias had to too. »The pleasure house has really gotten into your head.« Said Elias.

»Let’s hope for your sake that it doesn’t.«

The bell of the nearby church rang. The laughter quickly stopped.

»I have to get back.« Tivon sighed.

Elias stood up and took Tivon’s hood. He turned to Tivon and gave it to him. »See you tomorrow.«

Tivon smiled, took the hood and said. »Yes, tomorrow.«

Chapter Text

Every time a jade boy or for a matter of fact anyone who came in The Jade Paradise had to be looked through. You weren’t supposed to bring anything in. Or even out of the place for that matter. That could be a problem later when the sister visits me. If she’s even going to visit me.

Tivon lay down on his bed, waiting for the bell to ring. This stupid plan better work. He reached for his bag and took out the wooden carving of the ohil. He moved it in his hands. For some reason, it calmed his mind.

The rang of the bell disturbed Tivon. He sat up and put the ohil back in his bag. He quickly fixed his dress and rushed out of his cell. Suddenly a boy bumped into him. He was about the same height as Tivon, but he was much younger. The boy fixed his light brown hair.

»S-sorry.«

Tivon helped him get back on his feet. »Don’t worry.«

The boy smiled and quickly continued his way, as did Tivon. A shame that a boy at this age has to be here. He speed up his pace.

This time he didn’t need to go to The Green Woman’s office. Right by the stairs leading to the pleasure house, there was a board with the number of a room and the time of your visit. He quickly glanced at it and saw that his customer was waiting for him in room six. He went up the stairs and straight to room six.

The woman that Elias found for him, was sitting by the window. She was wearing a plain white dress, and her shoulders were covered with a blue embroidery scarf. She had long grey hair tied up in a bun. She looked at him with green kind eyes. She smiled.

Tivon bowed and walked to her, and sat down on the chair.

»Elias never told me what your name is.« The woman only nodded. Oh, I forgot she can’t talk. »Oh, right. It slipped out of my mind.«

Tivon felt embarrassed, but the woman just kindly smiled at him, reassuring him, that it was okay. She pointed at the flowers sitting in a vase behind Tivon. He turned to see what she was pointing at. The flowers in the vase were Winlies, small violet flowers.

»Violet?« asked Tivon. The woman happily nodded. »Violet is your name?« The woman nodded again. »That’s a pretty name.«

Tivon smiled when he saw Violet blush happily. She pointed at him.

“Oh, I’m Tivon. Do you know how to write?« Violet shook her head sadly and looked down. »What about drawing?«

She looked at him and nodded slowly. Tivon got up and opened a drawer. There was a notebook and a pen. He grabbed them and went back to Violet.

»Maybe we can talk through drawings.«

She smiled and took the pen. Tivon waited for her to finish her drawing. When she was done, she pushed the drawing towards Tivon. She drew the mask that Elias wore.

»The Masked man? What about him?« Asked Tivon. Violet pointed at the picture, at Tivon and then she shrugged.

»Do you want to know how I met him?« Asked Tivon.

She smiled and nodded.

Tivon took a breath. »I was travelling with a merchant ship and The Rose Sparrow invaded us. They killed the whole crew, but if it wasn’t for him I would be dead as well.« Violet touched the drawing and then put the hand on her chest, over her heart.

»You’re right. He is kind. Have you ever seen him without the mask?«

Violet nodded and pointed at the mask drawing again and then moved her hands gesturing as if she was making something.

»You made this mask?« Asked Tivon surprised. Violet approved with a smile. »It is really beautiful.«

Violet blushed again and Tivon smiled. »Why does he wear that mask?«

Violet looked out of the window, thinking about something and then she looked back at Tivon. She shrugged.

»It’s okay. I’ll ask him when I see him tomorrow.« Smiled Tivon. »So you make things?«

Violet removed her earrings and her bracelet. She placed them in Tivon’s hands. Tivon looked at them. They were made with colourful stones stuck together with wire. The earrings were made out of turquoise rocks and the bracelet was made out of red rocks.

»You made them all by yourself?« Asked Tivon while examining them. She nodded. »They are marvellous.«

He gave them back to her. »Is this how you earn money here?«

She nodded again, putting the bracelet and earrings back on.

»You have to earn money somehow.« said Tivon quietly.

Violet looked around the room and then met Tivon’s eyes. She nodded away, her face turning sad.

»I know that this place is not the best, but we need it because of a job that Sabur gave us.«

Violet nodded in acknowledgement. She then stood up and went to him. She grabbed his hands and bowed. »Are you already leaving?« Violet smiled. »It’s okay, I don’t like being here either.«

She laughed. Violet took the drawing from the table and gave it to Tivon. She pointed at it and then put her hand over Tivon’s chest. Tivon didn’t know what she meant by that, but he just happily smiled and said. »Thank you Violet.«

She returned the smile and left the room.

Tivon looked at the drawing of Elias’ mask. Why do you wear a mask? He folded the paper, hid it beneath his dress and headed outside.

While he was walking down the hallway someone shouted behind him. »Hey!«

Tivon turned around to see the boy that ran into him earlier. He looked distressed. The boy ran to him and grabbed his hands. »Can you read?«

»I can-.«

Before Tivon could finish, the boy continued. »Please help me. My client wants me to read, but I don’t know how. Please help me, please.« His eyes were filling up with tears.

»O-okay. Calm down. I’ll help.«

The boy hugged him. »Oh, thank you, thank you! You won’t have to do anything, you’ll just read.«

He took Tivon’s hand and pulled him into the room. There was a woman in a big purple dress lying on the pillows on the ground. She had red long hair. She moved the lock of the hair from her face. »This boy better know how to read marily, otherwise I’ll need to talk to The Green Woman.«

»N-no, he can. He’s the best reader in The Jade Paradise.«

This boy is really putting everything on me. He’s lucky I can read. The woman pointed at the book on the ground. Tivon sat down, opened the book on his lap and started reading.

After reading some lines, he looked up to see if it was okay and if he should continue.

»Mhmm, you have a soothing voice. Continue.«

Tivon looked at the boy, who looked relieved, and he continued reading. In the corner of his eyes, he saw the woman pushing the boy onto the pillows. She slowly started undressing him, but the boy didn’t resist.

Tivon moved away and continued reading, trying not to think about what was happening next to him. He moved the book closer and started to read louder, trying to drown out the moaning and other sounds. When he came to the end of the book, he closed it quietly and sneaked out of the room.

As he was walking down to his cell, he tried not to think about the scene stuck in his head. This is reality Tivon. This is the only life these boys know. This could happen to you if you lose your focus. When he came to his cell, he threw himself onto the bed, putting a pillow over his head. I mustn’t get stuck in here.

He didn’t know when, but he managed to fall asleep. It didn’t last long though, as he got woken up by the ringing of the bell. Another customer?

Tivon fixed his dress and headed up the stairs. He glanced at the sign, but no visits were arranged for Tivon till tomorrow. That doesn’t mean anything good. He knocked on the door of The Green Woman's office, scared of what he might have done wrong. The door opened. The Green Woman wasn’t facing him. »Take a seat, Tivon.«

Tivon quietly sat down on the chair in front of the table. She turned around, her hair loose, makeup still smoky black. She put the cigarette in her mouth and let out a puff.

»You did extremely well on your first day.« Tivon felt a huge relief. »And I heard you helped Adrien.« She leaned forward. »You’re lucky that the customer liked you, if it didn’t you would have problems. If a customer wants to see someone and they get someone else, that could be bad for my reputation.« She leaned back and closed her eyes. »When Adrien's customer came to pay, she was nice enough to rank you and pay for you too. Be grateful for that.«

She looked at Tivon. »If you’ll keep up this pace, you might get to visit my sister.« She moved her hand. »Now go, I need to close this place.«

Tivon went to his feet and bowed. He rushed outside happy that his plan just might work. As he was walking back to his cell, he saw Adrien waiting by the cell. When Tivon approached him, he bowed. »Thank you so much, I don’t know what I would do without you.« He looked up.

»Tivon.« smiled Tivon.

»Thank you Tivon.« He blushed and ran to his cell.

Tivon smiled and turned to his cell. There was something lying on the bed. It was a red bracelet. Tivon removed his blue bracelet and put on the red one. Just three ranks up and I’m out of here.

Chapter Text

Elias was already waiting for Tivon near The Jade Paradise. He was hiding away from the crowd in a dark alleyway. Even though not many people noticed him, Tivon already got a swing of finding him. For some reason, he could feel him when he was near.

When Elias saw him coming, he said. »How did you like Violet?«

»She’s a nice lady.« smiled Tivon.

»One of the best in town.«

He signalled Tivon to follow him. The alleyway they were walking through was narrow and dark, so Elias took off the mask. Tivon looked at it and asked, »Violet made it, didn’t she?«

Elias made a right turn and turned around. »You two were talking? How did you manage that?«

»I have my ways.« He winked at Elias. He was satisfied to see Elias’ face blush.

»But why the mask?«

Elias stopped and Tivon almost crashed into him. He turned to him, looking him directly in the eyes. »I wear it so that not everyone falls in love with my pretty face, Your Majesty.«

Tivon turned red. »Don’t call me that.«

»As you wish, Your Majesty.« He bowed down a little.

Tivon punched him on the side. Elias just laughed and continued his way.

»No, but really, why do you wear that mask?«

When Elias made another right turn, he said. »I was young when Sabur made me a killer. He thought that people wouldn’t be scared of me if they knew I was a kid. I was pretty tall, but my face was giving me away, so he got Violet to make me this mask.« He made a left turn. »That’s it. No other reason.«

»So you continued to wear it because they started calling you The Masked Man?«

»Pretty much.« He stopped by the door marked with red paint. »A shortcut.«

Tivon didn’t even realize that they were already there. He was happy that he’d be spending a little more time with Elias than yesterday.

As they were entering and walking up the stairs, Tivon asked. »So Violet and the crew are the only ones who have seen your face?«

»And you.« He offered Tivon his hand. He took it and he pulled him into the room. Elias noticed the new bracelet. »I see our plan is working.«

Tivon looked at the red bracelet. »Thanks to you.«

»I do the least here. You do all the work Tiv.«

Elias offered him a roll of bread. Tivon took it and sat down. »Did you find anyone for today and tomorrow?«

»Would you believe me if I told you I found three people.« Elias sat down.

»Impressive.« Tivon smiled and munched down on his bread roll. »Do you know them?«

»Not really. I paid them quite a lot. But I think I scared them enough, so they won’t touch you.«

»You don’t need to threaten them.«

»That’s like telling a dog not to bark.« He looked at Tivon, his look was serious. »If anyone dares touch you, they won’t have any fingers to touch anymore.«

»I don’t want anyone’s blood on my hands.« Said Tivon with a sigh.

»I guess it’s up to them.« He saw Tivon roll his eyes. »Don’t worry. I won’t let you go down that path.«

Tivon stood up and walked to the window. The sky was gloomy, and it looked like it was about to rain. Ever since Tivon got here, he hasn’t seen the sun. This town always looked so depressing. He leaned on the window.

»Why do all these boys go to The Jade Paradise?« asked Tivon after some time.

»They need to earn money somehow.«

Tivon remembered Violet's bracelets and earrings. »But why choose this place?«

Elias stood up and joined Tivon by the window. He leaned on the other side of the window. »It’s different for you. You can read and write, and you’re also smart. It’s a completely different story when you lack those things. The only thing you can offer is… yourself.«

»The Green Woman wanted you to be a part of The Jade Paradise, didn’t she?« Said Tivon avoiding his eyes.

»Luana?« asked Elias.

»Is that her name?« Elias nodded. »She wanted to have you?«

»Yes, she did, she still wants. But if she ever...«

Elias went quiet. Tivon moved his eyes from the window and looked into his eyes. He was looking at the ground, his look distant.

»If she ever what?« asked Tivon, trying to understand why Elias went quiet all of a sudden.

Elias sat down. »Elias?«

»I’m okay, I’m okay.« He breathed in. »I just remembered who are we up against.«

Tivon saw that Elias wasn’t breathing evenly – it was shallow, panicked even. Tivon stepped closer to him and put his hand on Elias’ shoulder. Elias jerked back.

“S-sorry, I didn’t mean-“

»It’s okay Elias.« Elias looked up and their eyes met. »I’m here and I won’t do anything. It’s okay.«

Elias closed his eyes and tried putting on a smile. I need to tell him. He deserves to know. He breathed in and out.

»Before Sabur claimed me as his, she got me. Her man kidnapped me and took me to her. She may not look scary Tivon, but she can be. Luana makes every monster, every demon seem like an angel.«

»Elias if you don’t want to tell me, it’s okay.«

»I-I’ll manage.« Said Elias steadying his breath.

He paused for a second and then continued. »I don’t know if she does that to everyone, but she did it to me and she took pleasure in it. Too much pleasure.«

Tivon was patiently listening, allowing him to take time to breathe.

»She took pleasure in c-cutting my back. With every cut on the back, she would say something and always end it with marily, which means darling. She would whisper it in your ear, slowly and quietly, while brushing your hair.”

Elias’ body was shaking. Tivon reached his hand to him, looking at him before he took it. Elias nodded and reached his hand to hold Tivon’s.

“My hair was short then, but since then I never wanted it short ever again. She ruined me that night. She made me more aware of my weak points. And maybe she’s the reason I became such a ruthless killer. Every time someone would brush against my back or go through my hair it triggered it. The memories, the fear.” His voice got quiet. “And anger.«

Elias squeezed Tivon’s hand. »I’m sorry I lied to you that day. After you told me everything, I wanted to tell you the truth I j-just-«

“It’s alright. That’s something hard to share, especially after hearing someone claim he’s a prince.”

Elias had to laugh at that. He let his head lean against Tivon’s hand, closing his eyes. It felt nice, his cold soft hands against his rough warm skin. He could stay like that for hours. But he couldn’t. He didn’t want Tivon to feel like him. He saw it when Pit was around Tivon. He didn’t want Tivon to feel the way he did that night.

Elias held Tivon’s hand and carefully put it away. »If anyone dares to do something you don’t wish for them to do, especially if it’s Luana, tell me.« He looked him in the eyes. »Tell me, scream for me. I will come.«

Tivon nodded. They heard a distant ringing of the church.

»I’ll have to go.« Said Tivon.

Please don’t go. Please stay. But Elias only nodded slowly.

»Will you be okay?« Asked Tivon, still holding Elias’ hand. Please say that you’ll be okay. I don’t know what I’ll do if you tell me you won’t. I don’t want to leave your side right now. Elias released his hand.

»I’ll be okay. We’ll see each other tomorrow.« Smiled Elias and Tivon smiled back at him.

When Tivon left, the silence of the room hit Elias. The little breeze felt like Luana’s touch, he could feel every scar on his back, he felt the blade slicing through the skin, and he could hear her whispering in her ear.

Elias’ body was shaking, his breathing was uneven. I’m okay, I’m okay. He tried to see Tivon, trying to see him telling him that he was okay. I’m okay, I’m okay, you’re okay.

For some ungod reason it helped. This boy that he randomly came across managed to calm him down, even though he wasn’t there. He helped him. He might not know that, but he did.

He was lying on the back, looking at the ceiling. Sleeping wasn’t an option. There was too much happening in his head. Too many questions and too much of him.

Tivon had two scheduled visits for the day, both arranged by Elias. During the visits, he mostly listened to the conversations, but his mind wasn’t focused on the discussions; he was preoccupied with thoughts of Elias. He could still feel the warmth of Elias' skin against his hand.

But he wasn’t just thinking about that. From the first time he saw the scars on Elias’ back, he knew they weren't just ordinary scars. He sensed there was something more beneath the surface. Tivon could never shake the image of the scars shaped like a peacock’s feather from his mind.

However, he could never have imagined the extent of Elias’ traumatic experience and the lasting impact it had on him. Tivon wanted to stay by his side, and he knew that Elias wanted him there, too. Yet, he couldn't take the risk. If he made a mistake, Luana might do something to him, just as she had done to Elias—or even worse.

But the thing with Luana didn’t quiet settle with him too. Why would she kidnap Elias? Why would she do things that she did? And why are the boys willingly coming here to work? He had to know. And he was going to figure it out. But first he needed some little thing from Elias.

Chapter Text

Tivon couldn’t concentrate when he had his visit in the morning. He was just thinking about his little plan. He knew that things weren’t adding up. He knew something wasn’t right and he was determined to figure it out.

When the time passed Tivon thanked his client and then he headed straight outside to Elias, who was already waiting for him at the same spot as yesterday.

Before Elias could say hi to him, Tivon said. »I’ll need your help.«

»With what?«

Elias started walking, but not towards the dark alleyway, but on the main busy street heading to the centre of the town.

»Wait, where are we going?« asked Tivon.

»We’re going to visit Violet.«

Elias was happy to see Tivon smile, but Tivon quickly became serious. "Why are we visiting her?"

»She made something for you.«

Tivon blushed. »Oh.« He quickened his pace, to get ahead of Elias. »I’ll need your lockpicks.«

»Why the hell do you need those for?«

»To break into Luana’s office.«

Elias suddenly pushed Tivon in a narrow street away from the people. »What?!«

»Okay, listen. Something is not adding up. Luana is hiding something from us. Not just us, everyone.«

Elias didn’t take the look off of him. »Were you even listening to me yesterday?«

Tivon looked at him, his look was serious. »Of course I was. That’s why I want to know what is happening.« He looked around to make sure no one was listening to them. »I’ve been in her office a couple of times, I memorized it and I know where to look. Luana isn’t always there, she leaves the office at night. If someone makes a commotion outside to distract the guard, I could sneak in.«

Elias leaned on the wall. »What if she finds out?«

»She won’t. I’ll make sure she won’t.«

»I’ll think about it.« sighed Elias. »Come on, Violet’s waiting for us.«

They continued walking up the busy street.

»Where do you even get this crazy ideas?« asked Elias, when they’ve entered a market square.

»I have a great teacher.« Tivon winked towards him.

Elias looked at him. »Am I really that bad of an influence?«

»A little bit.«

»Hey, you! The boy in green!« Tivon turned to see who was calling him. He saw an old lady dressed in colourful clothes, wearing countless jewellery. She had a crystal ball in her hand. »Do you want to know your future kid?«

Tivon just looked away and continued his walk. Elias stopped him. »Wait, you don’t want to know? It’s rare that a witch sees the future for you just by your looks.«

Tivon looked at Elias. »A witch? Elias, witches don’t exist.«

»Of course they do.« He pointed at the woman. »There is one right there. If she weren’t a witch how is the crystal ball floating.«

Tivon looked at her again. The crystal ball was indeed floating between her hands. Tivon then moved his head a little. When he moved it at the right angle, he could see the wire attached to the crystal ball, going into her sleeve.

»It’s attached to her.« Said Tivon with a calm voice.

»No, it’s n-«

Tivon pulled the hem of Elias’ coat and pulled him towards himself. He then gently held his head and moved it a little.

»Do you see it?«

»Do I see what?« Asked Elias, trying to figure out what he was looking at and trying to ignore the touch of Tivon’s fingers against him.

»The wire, you stupid.«

Tivon moved his head a bit and then Elias saw it. »Oh.«

»How are you going to explain that, huh?« Asked Tivon, proud that he managed to prove something to him.

»Well, she may be fake, but they still exist.« Said Elias and continued walking.

This hard head of his, thought Tivon.

»How do you think Sabur got his scars and why he’s missing a leg?«

»What is that supposed to do with witches?« Said Tivon. He remembered the scars on Sabur’s face. They were in fact quite unusual.

Elias turned to Tivon. »You want to hear a story?«

»Only if it’s true.« Smiled Tivon.

»Sabur was once a captain of the merchant ship. He was the best captain around.« Elias was happily jumping around. »Then once when he was sailing the great sea of Krens, he met a woman. He took her on his ship, because she promised him fortune and love, the only thing she wanted in return was to stay on the ship and him to help her find the lost antes.«

He looked back at Tivon to see if he was still listening. Tivon was patiently listening, so Elias continued. »Unfortunately, things didn’t go as planned. It turned out that the woman was a witch, fooling Sabur. She wanted something from him and when he didn’t give her what she wanted, she killed his whole crew and let her fury out on Sabur. She thought she killed him, but he survived and with all that rage and fury Sabur made The Rose Sparrow. They said that that faithful night the witch cursed him.«

Tivon looked at him baffled. »And why should I believe that story?«

Elias stopped. »Because Sabur told it.«

They were looking at each other. Elias waiting for Tivon’s approval and Tivon looking at him like Elias had just lost his mind.

»And now I should believe in witches?« Asked Tivon after some time.

Elias sighed. »You and your royal, smart heads that aren’t prepared to believe anything that isn’t involving them.«

»You really see me like that?« Tivon knew he didn’t mean him, but for some reason it still hurt.

»N-no. I didn’t mean- I-« He breathed out. »Sorry, I didn’t mean it.«

Now Tivon felt embarrassed. »I’m sorry too.«

Elias awkwardly cleaned his throat. »We’re here.« He pointed at the store, they were standing in front of. »This is Violets shop.«

He opened the door and offered Tivon to enter. The shop was small, but full of handmade jewellery of all colours. Behind the counter was Violet, smiling at them.

»Hi Violet.« Said Elias with a soft voice. Tivon waved at her.

She pointed at the door behind her and offered them to go in. The room behind the shop was even smaller. But it was big enough for a small kitchen, bed and a table. When Violet closed the door behind them, Elias put off his mask and leaned on the wall by the door.

»How are you doing on this lovely day Violet?« asked Elias.

She smiled at him and then pointed at the kettle on the stove.

»Tea?« Violet nodded. »I’ll pass.«

Violet looked at Tivon. He smiled and said. »Yes, please.«

She grabbed a cup out of a cupboard and poured in the tea. She gave it to Tivon with a kind smile. »Thank you.«

She then went back to her shop. Elias’ and Tivon’s eyes unintentionally met and Tivon blushed. He quickly looked away and hid himself behind the cup of tea. Elias quietly laughed.

When Violet came back, she was holding something in her hands. She gave it to Tivon. It was a pin that all the jade boys wore right by the neck so that the tulle didn’t fall off. Tivon looked up, confused to why he needed another one.

»But I already have one.«

Elias came to him. »I know, but this one is different.« He took it and pulled the end of it. The end that stayed in his hand was sharp like a little dagger. »If someone gets any weird ideas you’ll have something to protect yourself.«

He put the sharp end back in and handed the pin to Tivon.

»I don’t want to hurt anyone.« Said Tivon looking at the pin.

Elias took it and swapped the previous pin with the new one. »And I don’t want anyone to hurt you.« Finished Elias looking him in the eyes.

He then turned to Violet. »Do you have by any chance some lockpicks?«

She nodded and went back to her shop.

»I thought you’ll need more time to think about it.« Said Tivon surprised.

»For the record, I still think it’s a bad idea.«

»None of this was ever a good idea.« Smiled Tivon.

Elias laughed as Violet came back with two lockpicks and handed it to Elias.

»Now where will we hide those?«

Violet suddenly grabbed the lockpicks and went to Tivon. She nodded to him to stand up. She moved the chiffon on Tivon’s hip. She put the lockpicks between the layers of the belt. The belt was a harder material so even if the guards look hard enough, they wouldn’t see it nor feel it.

Elias reached in his inner coat pocket and pulled out a sack of money. »How much do I own you Violet, 20 peiges?«

But Violet only turned to him and held his hands and shook her head.

»I need to give you something Violet.«

She smiled. »Thank you.« Said Tivon behind them.

He then quickly put down the cup of tea and set down in the chair.

»Tiv?«

Elias quickly came to him, Violet looked confused, and her green eyes were filled with worry.

»Elias do you have a-any Hyssopy flowers?« Said Tivon, feeling the pain going through his back in waves.

Elias quickly rummaged through his inner pockets. »Y-yes, I have them somewhere.« He finally found the bottle and poured some flowers in his hand. He crushed them and mixed it in Tivon’s tea. Tivon drank it before the pain got any worse.

»Thanks.« He took a big breath. »I left the bag at The Jade Paradise.«

»Lucky for you I always have a spare bottle on me now.« smiled Elias.

Tivon looked at Violet, who was still confused and scared.

»I’m sorry Violet. It’s just pain a get sometimes. You don’t need to worry.«

Violet only slowly nodded.

»I should head back, I don’t want to be late.« He stood up and looked at Violet. »Thank you again Violet.«

She smiled and hugged him. Then she looked at him again and smiled. Even though she couldn’t speak, Tivon knew that she wished him good luck.

Tivon looked at Elias. »Want to walk with me to The Jade Paradise?«

Elias nodded, turned to Violet and thanked her. He put his mask on, and they left.

As they were walking to the pleasure house Tivon said. »She’s a nice lady. I feel bad that she didn’t accept the money.«

»She rarely accepts money from me.« Said Elias.

»Why is that?«

»I’m not sure.« Tivon wanted to continue his step, but Elias’ hand stopped him. »There she is.«

Tivon followed Elias’ gaze. There was a woman in the crowd, her long blond hair falling freely down her back. Her head was covered with big elegant green hat. She was wearing a big basil, green dress, fanning herself with a black and green embroidery fan. She was accompanied by two big men.

»Is that her?« Asked Tivon.

The woman turned. Her face was young and smooth, wearing black smoky makeup and vibrant red lipstick. Her bare neckline was ornated with the necklace. The same necklace that was on the picture that Sabur gave to them. The big Chrome Sphene shining in the light.

»Yes, that’s her. That’s Alieana.«

Chapter Text

Tivon and Elias were watching Alieana from a safe distance.

»So that’s the necklace we need to steal?«

»Yes.« said Elias.

»I think she will notice if it went missing.« Said Tivon, looking at the big crystal hanging around her neck.

»We’ll figure something out. First, we’ll need to get you to the highest rank, but even if you’re there, she still needs to notice you.«

He then gently pushed Tivon forward.

»What?« Tivon didn’t know why Elias pushed him.

»Go, she needs to notice you.«

»N-notice me? Am I supposed to do a handstand or what?«

»You don’t need to do much, just walk past her and be pretty.« Elias leaned forward and whispered in his ear. »And you already know how to do that.«

Tivon’s face turned bright red, but before he could say anything and turn around to Elias, he was already gone, hidden somewhere in the crowd.

This guy.

Tivon took a breath and stepped forward. He relaxed his face and fixed his posture. He was walking slowly and calmly, even though he was nervous.

When he was passing Alieana he could feel her eyes on him. Good, she noticed me. When he passed her, he could hear her whisper something to her guards. I just hope those are good whispers and not about my scar. When he was far enough from Alieana he breathed out. Looking pretty is rough. He heard the bell of the church ring, so he quickened his pace.

When night fell and everyone was in their cells, Tivon quietly got up and sneaked to the door by the stairs. He slightly opened the door and peeked through. Luana was still in her office. Tivon sat down and waited for her to come out.

After a couple of long minutes, the door finally opened. From the room stepped Luana with her two jade boys. She locked the door behind her and moved her hand. The two jade boys bowed and turned to the door. Tivon quickly hid behind the door.

He was grateful that the hallway was so dark because the jade boys didn’t notice him. As he was looking after them, he noticed the scars on their back. They look the same as Elias’. Tivon shivered, remembering what Elias and those boys had to go through.

As the boys entered their cells, Tivon peeked through the doors once more. The path to The Green Woman's office was unobstructed, but at the end of the hallway, two men stood watching.

We’ll have to take care of that. He glanced at the watch on the hallway. Two in the morning.

Tivon carefully closed the doors and went back down the stairs. As he was walking to his cell he heard a cry, coming from the shared bathroom. Tivon followed the cry and when he entered the bathroom, he saw Adrien sitting on the floor, his head between his legs. He carefully approached him and touched his hand.

Adrien jumped and moved away, his eyes full of terror. »T-Tivon?«

»Is everything okay?« asked Tivon cautiously.

Adrien's eyes filled with new tears, he started nodding intensely and hid his head between his legs. He started crying louder.

»Shhh. It’s okay Adrien.« Tivon sat beside him. »It’s going to be okay.«

»How is it going to be okay, I’ve been stuck at blue rank forever. She’s going to kill me if I don’t improve.«

»She’s not going to kill you-.«

»How can you say that? I only have one year left to get to the red rank.« Said Adrien, his tears falling down his cheeks in waves.

»What do you mean only one year left?«

»You only get three years to rank up. If you’re not good enough The Green Woman kills you.«

Why would you only get three years to improve? Just being here voluntarily should be enough. He moved closer to Adrien and put a hand on his shoulder.

»Hey, it’s going to be okay. You’ll get to red rank in time. I’ll make sure of it.«

Adrien looked up, his eyes red from crying. »R-really?«

Tivon didn’t know if he meant it, but he still said yes. Adrien hugged him. »Thank you Tivon.«

Tivon then walked Adrien to his cell and while he was walking to his own cell he thought to himself. You’re complicating this plan. There’s no way you can get yourself out of here, steal some necklace and help Adrien. He lay down in his bed. You can’t help everyone.

Tivon didn’t close an eye the whole night. He was tired, his body heavy and anxious, sinking into bed, but he couldn’t sleep. His mind was racing. The longer he stayed here the more he wanted to escape. But so much needed to be done before that.

He realized he hadn’t slept the whole night when the guard brought breakfast in front of his cell. He forced himself to sit up, his body heavy and tired. He ate the bowl of oatmeal and headed to the schedule board to see if he had any customers this morning. Tivon was glad to see that he only had two in the afternoon.

He ran back to his cell to take the silk hood and ran outside, happy to see Elias lurking in the shadow of an alleyway. Despite the lack of energy Tivon still ran to him.

»I said that looking pretty won’t be a problem for you.« Said Elias leaning off the wall and starting to walk towards the apartment.

»So she did notice me?«

»Yes, she did. Our plan is working.«

Tivon sighed. »But it got more complicated.«

Elias turned around but didn’t stop walking. »Why is that?«

»There’s this boy. Adrien.«

Elias stopped before the door. »Adrien?«

»He needs my help, but I don’t know how to help him.« Tivon was looking at the ground.

They entered the room, Elias put off his mask and looked at Tivon. His look was perplexed. »Help him in what way?«

Is he...jealous? Tivon blushed. »No, not like that.«

»Mhmm?«

»Elias stop, It’s not what you mean.«

Elias sat down on the bed, not moving his eyes away from Tivon. »You can do whatever you want Tiv, I don’t mind. Just be careful.«

But you do mind. »Says the guy who flirts with everyone.«

Elias blushed. »I don’t flirt with everyone.«

Tivon gave him a judging look and Elias looked away embarrassed. Tivon sighed and sat down by the window, leaning on it.

Why do I even bother? I can’t help Adrien, it’ll be nice if I even get myself out of there. He looked through the window. It was still cloudy and gloomy.

Tivon always wanted to help others. He thought that he could help everyone in the kingdom if he became King.

King...

It has been a long time since he thought about it. Why did he even want to become king? Tivon pulled his legs to his chest. Father was right. I could never be king. He couldn’t even produce an heir.

»Got something on your mind?« disturbed Elias.

Tivon slowly nodded, still looking out of the window.

»Do you want to talk about it?« he asked as he sat on the bed and leaned on the closet beside the bed.

»My father was right.« Elias looked at him. »I could never rule The Kingdom of Naydawin. I know I already talked about it, but now that I’m here at The Jade Paradise. It got me thinking. I can’t produce an heir and… I’m d-disabled after all.« He paused for a second. »I couldn’t even please or attract anyone.« He finished, hugging his knees even closer to his chest, burrowing his head between them. Why do I tell him everything?

»That’s what people who go to The Jade Paradise think. There are a lot of people actually who wouldn’t want people like you.«

Just like I said, why did I even tell him?

»But there are still people who wouldn’t mind it.« He stood up and walked to Tivon. He sat down in front of him. »You don’t need certain things to please someone.« He smiled. »It’s who you are that counts.«

Tivon smiled from behind his hands.

»If anyone thinks you are less because of your disability, don’t worry, I have a lot of knives.« He winked at him and Tivon had to laugh.

»So did you use the lockpicks yet?«

»No, I had to make sure at what time Luana gets out. And you’ll need to help me with something. You’ll need to distract the two guards.«

»Okay. When?«

»Luana leaves the office at two in the morning and the guards are standing in the beginning of the hallway. You’ll need to make a commotion outside The Jade Paradise so that they’ll go outside.«

»Will you have enough time?« asked Elias, calculating the plan in his head.

»There should be enough to get through the paperwork and the boys contracts.«

»When are we doing this?« asked Elias.

Tivon looked through the window. »Tonight.«

Chapter Text

It felt like Tivon got more anxious with every visit he had. Besides the anxiety, he had been listening to his customers less and less. It seemed to him that every time he had a customer, he had to be doing something important later in the day. And tonight, he had to be ready.

»Are you even listening to me?«

Tivon snapped back to reality. The woman sitting in front of him seemed annoyed. »Oh, yes, I’m listening.«

The woman rolled her eyes. »Ugh. I know I got paid to be here, but still. I’m in a pleasure house and I can’t do anything. Boring.«

He couldn’t blame her. Elias probably had to pay her a lot. I hope Sabur gave him enough money.

»I’m sorry. It’s just part of the job.« said Tivon.

»At least I get free wine.« Said the woman and took a sip from a cup.

That was true, every client could have as much wine as they wished. It wasn’t the best wine, Tivon had better wine at home, but here they’ve used so much wine that they had to water it down.

»If you want, you can leave.«

She drank up the whole cup. »I will.«

She put the cup on the table and left. Tivon sighed.

He got up, cleaned the room, and went to his cell. I could at least try to get some sleep before the night. When he came to his cell there was a purple bracelet lying on the bed. At least some good news. He took the bracelet and changed the red one with it, he then fell on the bed. His body was heavy, eyes tired and before he knew it, he fell asleep.

It wasn’t that kind of sleep where you wake up and feel like a new person. Tivon woke up even more tired than before he got in bed. A quick panic rose in him when he saw that the lights were low, and everyone was sleeping. He quickly exited his cell and looked at the clock on the wall above the schedule board.

One and a half in the morning. Good, I didn’t oversleep. He quickly reached into the belt to see if his lockpicks were still there. He felt two metal picks between his fingers. Now we just wait. He sat down beside the slightly opened door and waited.

Elias was standing in the shadows, waiting for The Green Woman to come out. The church bell rang. Two in the morning.

Elias put on the hood, so nobody could recognize him. He looked to The Jade Paradise. The main street was busy with people, which was good. The more people that are here the better. The door of the pleasure house opened, and Luana came outside. She covered herself with a green scarf and walked down the street towards the harbour.

Elias moved from the shadows and mixed himself in the crowd. He pulled one of his spare knives out of the belt and moved to where the crowd was most busy. He passed someone and gently sliced his leg, just enough that the man could feel it. Elias dropped the knife and moved away with the crowd.

»Hey, you!« The man turned to the first man he could see. »Ya looking for a fight?!«

»I didn-«

Before he could say anything, the man punched him and before you knew it a brawl took place.

The easiest way to make a commotion is in Bradfordshire. Elias smiled and moved in the shadow of a street beside The Jade Paradise, where he watched the fight take place.

He didn’t have to wait too long before the guards of the pleasure house burst out to stop the fight. As soon as they closed the door behind them, Elias moved to the door, his lockpicks in his hand. He locked the door behind them and moved away.

It’s all on you now Tivon. Be quick.

Tivon was sitting by the door, ready for Luana to leave. He heard the church bells, so he moved behind the door and hid himself in the shadows.

The two jade boys came down the stairs and quietly disappeared into their cells. Tivon could hear The Green Woman lock the door behind her and then her walking down the hallway. He looked through the door and the guards took their positions by the door. Now is your turn, Elias.

He waited a couple of minutes and to his relief, he heard angry voices coming from outside. The guards looked at each other and then they opened the door to see what was going on outside. Tivon could just see the brawl taking place in the street, and then the door closed. Now or never.

He opened the door and went straight to Luana’s office. He took out the lockpick and focused on the lock on the door. It took him a couple of minutes to finally hear a satisfying click.

The door opened and Tivon quickly went inside and closed the doors. First, he opened the closet on his right side. It was filled with dresses and scarves, so he moved to the drawers below. In it was just shoes. He then quickly opened the drawers on the left side of the closet. The first drawer was filled with beautiful knives with a green crystal on every one of them. Tivon swiftly closed it. He didn’t want to know what they were meant for.

The drawer below was filled with contracts. Tivon quickly went through them, but they were all the same. On it was written; This contract is provided as an agreement which defines the relationship and interaction between an individual and one other individual the Master. This agreement cannot be broken, the only way to break it is if one of the individuals dies or if the contract is destroyed. He put the papers back. I will need to get my contract before I get out of here. I don’t want her to claim me forever. He closed both drawers, annoyed that he still hadn’t found anything.

He looked towards the table. There was a drawer beneath it. He sat down on the chair and opened it. There was a stack of paperwork on it. Tivon took them out and read through them.

On the 12th day of April, ten boys were sold to The Jade Paradise for 300 peiges, from Norton. Tivon looked at another paper.

On the twenty-third day of November, twelve boys were sold to The Jade Paradise for 350 peiges, from Harnsey. Tivon’s heart started racing. He moved through the papers.

Three boys sold for 100 peiges. Thirteen boys sold. 200 peiges. From Orkney. From Longdale.

Sold. Sold. Sold.

Tivon came to the last paper. On it was written. Over a hundred boys sold to The Jade Paradise for 8000 peiges, from The Rose Sparrow.

Tivon dropped the papers. The room started spinning and Tivon felt like he would pass out. They’ve all been sold as slaves. They were forced to become slaves.

In the corner of an eye, Tivon spotted something. He moved the papers on the table and what he saw made his heart stop. There was a map of Krens. There were marks of jade rock scattered around the countries. She has pleasure houses all over Krens.

Tivon started shaking and breathing heavily. He suddenly jumped when he heard the church bell ring. I need to get out of here.

He quickly scattered the papers on the desk and headed towards the doors. He carefully opened them and peeked through to see if the guards had already come back.

There was nobody there, so Tivon got through the door, closed it, and locked it with his metal picks. As he was doing that the door at the end of the hallway started opening. Tivon heard a click and ran to the doors leading to the cells. He made it just in time.

Tivon took a big breath. He was still shaking. He slowly got to his cell and lay down in his bed. I need to get out of here. I need to see Elias. He closed his eyes and tried to fall asleep. Stop thinking about it and just sleep, you’ll figure it out tomorrow.

But he couldn’t. He could hear every single sound outside the cell. He could hear the cries and sobs. He understood them now. They were the cries of the sold slaves.

After a brutal night of not sleeping Tivon headed straight outside, unbothered to look at the schedule board if he had any visits in the morning. There was one in half an hour, but he didn’t care. He needed to see him.

Elias was waiting for him at the same spot. Before he could say anything to Tivon, Tivon grabbed his hand and pulled him further into the dark alleyway.

»Don’t tell me you got caught-«

Tivon hastily turned around. He was talking fast, his voice full of panic. »They are slaves! They aren’t here voluntarily. They’ve been sold to a pleasure house.«

»What?«

»The Green Woman has these houses all over Krens. And what’s even worse, The Rose Sparrows sold most of the boys.«

Elias put his mask off. »Tivon what are you talking about?«

Tivon was screaming frantically. »Those boys are slaves Elias.«

Elias grabbed his shoulder. »Hey, hey. Calm down Tiv. Breathe.«

»How can I calm down Elias? T-they were sold into this... This horrible place. And I’m stuck here too!«

»I’ll get you out of here. We’ll do it now-«

Tivon looked him directly in the eyes. »What about the job?«

»Screw the job and that stupid necklace, you’re not staying here anymore.«

»But we’re so close.« Tivon wasn’t sure why he was saying all these things. He wanted to go as far away as he could from this place, yet they were so close to getting the necklace.

»Tivon are you even listening to yourself? « Elias was still holding him.

He wasn’t sure. »Yes.« He breathed in and out. »We’re close to getting that necklace. I’ll manage for a couple of days.«

»Are you sure?«

Tivon smiled and nodded. »I’ll have to go back, I have a visit.«

He wanted to go, but Elias was still holding him. »If you want to get out... Tell me. I’m serious Tivon. You just need to say it.«

Tivon nodded. He turned around and headed back towards The Jade Paradise.

Why did I say that? He looked up to the pleasure house. Why don’t I just run till I can? He wanted to take the next step, but someone grabbed him by his arm.

»Oh, so this is where ya have been shary.« A wave of shivers went through Tivon’s body when he heard Pit’s voice. »It suits ya.«

Chapter Text

»The dress suits ya.« Pit’s voice was like a razor cutting through Tivon. »What a shame I didn’t know earlier that you work here.«

»P-please leave me alone.« Said Tivon, his voice weak.

Pit came closer, tightening his grip on Tivon. »What did ya say shary?«

It took all of Tivon’s energy to scream and push himself away from Pit. »Leave me alone!«

Pit grabbed him even tighter and pulled him closer. »Huh?! Ya dare to tell me what to do?«

Then suddenly, a woman stepped between them and pushed Pit away, causing Tivon to fall. »Didn’t you hear him? He said to leave him alone!«

Pit scowled at her, said something to himself and left with the crowd. He knew better than to mess with a woman.

The woman turned around. »Are you okay?«

Tivon nodded. The woman with long light brown hair dressed in a beautiful long blue dress offered him her hand. Tivon accepted it and she pulled him to his feet. »I hate to see you boys working with these horrible people.«

The sleeve on her hand moved, revealing wounds all over her hand. Tivon recognized them. Anasities. He caught them when he was six. If you caught them, you got these unusual wounds all over your body and a fever, but it was nothing serious.

»Anasities.«

The woman quickly covered her hand. »I-it’s not contagious, I swear.«

»Oh, I know, I had them as a child.«

Her eyes suddenly glowed up with hope. »There’s a cure?«

»Yes.«

The woman looked around and then at Tivon. »What’s your name?«

»T-Tivon.«

»Okay. My poor son has these, and he is struggling a lot. Nobody knows what this is. Right now, I’m running late and I don’t have time to talk. I’ll arrange a visit at The Jade Paradise with you so we can talk in peace.« The woman was talking so fast that Tivon had a problem comprehending all the information. Before he could say anything to her, she was already rushing up the street.

Tivon felt delusional. I need to get some sleep tonight. Before he could overthink what just happened, he headed inside The Jade Paradise for his morning visit.

Tivon managed to stay awake throughout his first visit of the day. He didn’t know if he was just tired or if it was just the fact there were so many things happening that Tivon couldn’t comprehend anymore. He wanted to go to sleep, but he had a customer right after his morning visit.

He moved towards the room that was assigned to him. When he opened the door the woman in a blue dress whom he met earlier in the morning, was standing by the window. Tivon had already forgotten that he had met her.

»Oh, welcome.« Said Tivon bowing to her.

»No need for that.« She smiled. She rolled up her sleeve revealing the unusual wounds. »You said you know what this is.«

Tivon came closer and examined it more carefully now. »Yes, this is Anasities.«

The woman looked worried. »Is it deadly?«

»No, it’s not.« Tivon nodded off. »But if you don’t treat it in time it can leave some bad consequences.«

The woman looked at him with worried eyes. »How long?«

»About two years.«

He could see the relief in her eyes. »You said there’s a cure.«

»Yes. Oligies. It’s an orange flower, and when it’s mixed with milk it helps with the Anasities. Just a glass of it gets rid of the fever in minutes and in a couple of hours it slowly gets rid of wounds, but it’ll take some time for the wounds to fully disappear.«

»Where can I get these flowers?« Asked the woman, rolling down her sleeve.

»I saw them on the market square up the street. They may be called something different here.« He looked at her. »But they can be expensive.«

»That’s okay. Anything for my son. Poor sweet thing has been struggling for weeks and nobody wanted to see him, because they thought it’s contagious.« She smiled, and Tivon could see the hope spark in her eyes. »But now he’ll be okay.«

Tivon then got to the drawer and pulled out a notebook and a pen. He stepped to the table and started drawing the Oligy flower and writing all the stuff she’d need to do. When he finished, he handed her the paper.

»If you’ll have problems finding it, this is how it looks. Make the milk mixture once a week.« The woman carefully took the paper. »Just make sure you hid it away from the guards.«

»You can write? And all these things that you know...« She looked up from the paper. »Why do you choose to work here? With this knowledge, you could do so much more.«

Tivon didn’t know how to answer her.

“Well, it doesn’t matter.” The woman took Tivon’s hands and hid the paper in her sleeve. »Thank you so much Tivon. I’ll make sure to pay you back in some way.«

»You really don’t have to. You already had to pay to get here. Save the money for the flowers.«

She smiled. »Don’t worry about that.« She opened the door and turned to Tivon. »Thank you again.«

And just like that, she left, leaving Tivon alone with his thoughts. He sighed and headed towards his cell, hoping that he’d manage to sleep.

Fortunately, he didn’t have any visits for the rest of the day. He fell on the uncomfortable bed and fell asleep.

The sleep wasn’t pleasant. Tivon would wake up every five minutes, moving over to the other side of the bed, his body in pain from the week of tiredness.

He was fully woken up by the bell. She needs me. He slowly moved out of the bed and headed to her office. Luana was sitting by the table, her angry eyes fixed on Tivon.

»Sit down.« She said her voice sharp.

Tivon quickly sat down, his heart pounding, all of his tiredness washing away. Did she find out I was in her office?

»I heard you’ve been doing a really good job.« She leaned slightly forward. »An unusually good job.«

She stood up from her table and started walking around the room. »Today a woman came to me after your visit, and she paid quite a lot of money. I wasn’t surprised, a lot of your customers leave a lot of money.« She moved to her drawer and opened it. »A lot money for a boy that’s been here for just a week.«

Tivon’s heart was racing fast. She knows.

Luana took out one of her silver knives. »But earlier she came back, giving you even more money.« She turned to Tivon. »A lot more money. She said that you changed her life. Turns out she is the daughter of a wealthy Baron.« She started walking towards him, fidgeting the knife in her hands. »Tell me Tivon…« she moved to him, brushing the non-sharp part of the knife against his cheek. Tivon was paralyzed, unable to move. »What’s your secret?«

She moved around him like a snake waiting to catch its prey. »What’s your technique?« She was smoothly moving her long nails across his shoulders. »Is it the way you talk? Is it the way you touch them?« She moved her lips to his ear and whispered. »Or is it just the way you look?«

Tivon didn’t dare to move, he even forgot to breathe.

She moved her knife to his back. »It’s not okay to keep secrets from me marily.«

Tivon could feel the point of the knife against his right shoulder.

»Don’t worry. I’ll figure it out in time.« She moved the knife away and stepped to her drawer. »But for now, I’ll look through it.«

Tivon allowed himself to breathe when she put the knife back where she got it from.

»You make me quite a lot of money.« She grabbed something from the shelf. She came back to Tivon, took his hand, and put a green bracelet in his hand.

»I never had a jade boy skip a rank.« She peered through him with a fierce look. »Don’t make me regret it.«

She went back to her table and sat down. »My sister saw you two days ago. She asked me about you.« She smiled viciously.

Tivon was still sitting in his chair, looking at the green bracelet, unable to move.

»Maybe you’re lucky and she’ll want to visit you.« Tivon looked at her. »I’ll have to think about it though.« She took her quellazaire and lit it up. »Go now.«

She didn’t have to tell him twice, because Tivon’s body moved on its own and he was outside the office in a minute.

He almost ran to his cell, closed the curtains, and cuddled out in the corner of the bed. That was too close. His body was shaking. He could feel every touch, every whisper of her on him.

That was too close. She was too close.

Chapter Text

Elias was waiting for him at his usual spot. Tivon tried to hide his tiredness behind a smile, but it was hard to hide his sloppy walking. It was impossible for Elias not to notice it. »Is everything okay?«

Tivon smiled and moved his hand with the green bracelet to his face. »You could say that it’s okay.«

Elias put his mask off, his look baffled. »How did you?«

»Yesterday I bumped into a woman and I noticed she had Anasities, a disease I had as a child. I told her that I knew the cure. Then she came to visit me, and I told her about it. She probably found it because she came back and paid The Green Woman a lot of money.«

Tivon didn’t want to tell Elias about the encounter with Pit and the talk with Luana. It’s better if he doesn’t know.

Elias was confused beyond belief. »How did she get the money?«

»Apparently she’s the daughter of a Baron.«

»So the woman turned out to be the daughter of a rich Baron and she paid you a lot of money and because of that you skipped ranks and got the green bracelet?« Said Elias walking beside Tivon, still confused about how Tivon got the green bracelet.

»Yes. Luana also pointed out that Alieana might want to arrange a visit with me.« Said Tivon looking at the ground, concentrating on trying not to trip over his feet.

»That’s great. Now we’ll just have to figure out how to get rid of those two idiots that always accompany her and then how to unnoticeably get that necklace off her.«

They turned right, into a street that was a little wider, on every side there was a short confined dead end.

»That’s going to be a big problem. That necklace must be heavy, she’ll definitely notice it missing.« He closed his eyes, still walking on. »Alieana doesn’t go anywhere without those two-«

Suddenly Elias grabbed Tivon and pushed themselves into one of the cramped narrow streets. He covered Tivon’s mouth. Tivon looked at him, angry that he just interrupted him, but Elias’ look was serious. He put his finger to his mouth and removed the hand covering Tivon’s. He pointed at the street that they were just walking in a second ago. Tivon carefully peeked from the corner.

From one of the side streets bursted out Alieana with her two guards. She looked furious.

»I’ve had enough of you two!« She screamed.

»But my lady your sister-« Interrupted one of the men.

»I don’t care what she said. I had enough! I can’t have any fun when you two are constantly around.« She was waving her arms affrontingly around. »I’m firing you! And you better not be sneaking around when I go see that jade boy, Tivon tomorrow.«

Elias looked down at Tivon. A sudden rush of blush ran through his face when he realized how cramped the street really was and how close he was to Tivon.

Elias’ right hand was leaning on the wall that Tivon was leaning against. His legs between his, their bodies touching. Elias could feel Tivon’s heartbeat against his body. His lips almost touching Tivon’s forehead.

»I’m firing both of you two.« Screamed Alieana, pushing them away and carrying her way down the street, her head held high.

»I think we have one problem less now.« Whispered Tivon and started turning around to Elias. »Now we just-«

Their eyes met and now Tivon also realized the situation they were in.

He could feel the warmth of Elias’ body against his, his breath against his face and his racing heartbeat against his chest. Elias was looking at him with those eyes. Those beautiful blue eyes. Tivon hadn’t had many opportunities to look at them and he admitted to himself that he could be looking at them for eternity. He wanted to pull himself closer to him. He wanted to be even nearer to him than he already was.

Tivon moved his head closer, but Elias rapidly moved his mask down and turned into the street.

»W-we need to make a plan for t-tomorrow.«

He continued walking towards the apartment. Tivon quietly followed him. They remained quiet all the way to the apartment.

Elias could feel the heat underneath his mask. Why did I pull away? Why did I do that? He was afraid to glance back at Tivon, who was walking behind him in silence. But I couldn’t have done anything else. I don’t want to make him uncomfortable by touching him.

They came to the apartment, the silence only growing between them. For some time, they just sat there in silence until Elias spoke.

»Now that the guards won’t bother us, it leaves us just with Alieana.« His voice was shaking. He quickly looked at Tivon. He nodded. »We don’t want to kill her, but we could give her something that will make her fall asleep.«

»We could put it in her cup of wine.« Continued Tivon, his voice quiet.

»And when she falls asleep, you take the necklace.«

»I’ll hide my stuff in the room. I can escape through the windows.« Said Tivon, connecting the dots in his head.

»But now that you’re a green rank, your room is on the third floor.«

»Yeah, I’ll need some help there.«

Elias looked through the window. »I’ll be on the roof of the house beside it. From there I can see directly into the room.« He looked at him. »I’ll be there the whole time.«

»For the sleep poison. Could you try to get me some?«

»I might know where to get it. You’ll get it before the visit.«

Tivon sighed. »I just really hope this will work.«

Elias sat down on the chair by the table and smiled. »It will. I’ll be there and I’ll make sure that it will.«

Tivon finally looked at him and smiled, but then quickly looked away. The silence fell in the room so that only the distant sound of a busy street could be heard.

Finally, Tivon broke the silence even though he didn’t want to. »W-why did you pull away earlier?«

Elias looked up. »I-I... I’m not sure.« He he glanced away. »Well, I know why, it’s just...«

Tivon looked at him peering through Elias with questioning eyes. Elias didn’t want to meet his eyes.

After some stuttering Elias said. »I didn’t want to pull away, but I didn’t want to make you uncomfortable.«

»Why would I be uncomfortable?«

Elias looked at him, confused. »I thought that you were uncomfortable with anyone touching you. The other night on the ship when Pit was around you-«

»That’s because it was Pit.«

Elias almost gasped. Tivon then looked away, his face turning bright red. »I d-don’t mind when it’s you.« He cleared his throat. »I hate when others touch me.« He looked at him. »But never with you.«

Tivon almost laughed, he never thought he would get Elias to blush so hard. His face was almost brighter than his eyes.

Elias hit his head against the table, covering himself with his big arms. »Ugh, I ruined everything now.« He cried.

Now, Tivon did laugh.

»Stop laughing, I’m already embarrassed enough.« mumbled Elias behind his arms.

Tivon couldn’t stop giggling. He stood up and went to him. Elias peeked through his arms. Tivon squatted down to meet his eyes.

»Don’t worry. There will be enough time for that.«

Elias hid himself in his arms again. »I’m sorry.« He mumbled.

»Don’t be.« Tivon gave him a quick kiss on his head and moved to the trapdoor. »I need to get back now. See you tomorrow.«

Elias raised his head up, still trying to process what had just happened when Tivon said. »Don’t forget the sleep poison.«

And before Elias could say anything Tivon was gone.

Elias’ felt like there were a million butterflies flying under his skin. This boy will be the end of me.

The whole time that Tivon walked back to The Jade Paradise he had butterflies in his stomach. He caught himself smiling when he realized how embarrassed Elias was just a moment ago. He was just trying to make me comfortable. He blushed and smiled even more. What a sweetheart. What were the odds that I stumbled across him?

He walked on, happily jumping, forgetting that he hadn’t had a good night's sleep for almost a week and when he walked out of the street, all of the problems he had, came back to him when he saw The Jade Paradise.

Just a bit longer. He sighed and went inside. As he was walking down the hallway to get in his cell, someone bumped into him. He looked down to see Adrien.

»Oh, Adrien.« Something wasn’t right. Adrien looked scared. No, he looked terrified. »Is everything okay?«

He didn’t say anything, he was blankly staring in front of him.

»Adrien?« He finally looked up at Tivon, his eyes full of terror. »Are you okay?« Asked Tivon.

»Oh, yeah. I’m okay.« He was talking slowly. »I’m just going outside to catch some fresh air.«

»O-okay. Be careful.«

Adrien just nodded and continued his way. Tivon was looking after him. I hope he’s okay. He turned around and went to his cell to try to get some sleep before tomorrow.

Five hours had passed before Tivon got woken up by a bell, but it wasn’t just his bell. The bells from all of the boys’ cells rang. Tivon moved his curtains to see what was happening. All of the boys were standing outside their cells, fixing their postures. Tivon quickly did the same.

He looked around to see the terrified expression on the jade boys. Before he could think of a reason why they were so frightened, The Green Woman entered the hallway.

»Good evening, my jade boys.« She slowly moved down the stairs. »You may ask yourself, why am I here.«

She started walking down the hallway. »There’s probably not a good reason she’s here.«

She looked around at everyone. Luana’s and Tivon’s eyes met, but she quickly looked away, her eyes full of anger. »And you’d be right. I am deeply disappointed and angry with one particular person for what they’ve done.«

Tivon’s heart dropped. She knows. She definitely knows. This is it. This is the end for me.

Chapter Text

»I am deeply insulted.« Said Luana.

Tivon’s sight darkened and he felt like he might pass out.

Luana fixed a curl of her dark brown hair from her face. »You see, the actions of this boy was against my rather simple rules.« She continued. »And his actions may damage my reputation.«

She looked around and smiled. »Now would this sweet boy be so kind and stepped forward.«

Everyone remained still, but the boys were looking at each other trying to figure out who The Green Woman was talking about. Tivon couldn’t move. He knew that it would be better if he just stepped forward, but he couldn’t.

»Oh, is my little jade boy scared? He doesn’t need to be.« She grinned. »I promise I’ll be nice.«

Nobody moved so she fixed her green scarf around her hands and continued. »You can’t hide forever.«

Tivon took a big breath and right as he wanted to step forward Luana said. »Adrien? Would you like to tell us something?«

Now all eyes were on Adrien. He was looking at the ground, his body shaking in fear.

»Adrien? Come hear my sweet marily.«

Tivon felt a relief, but it was quickly replaced with a rush of anxiety when Adrien slowly moved forward and stepped in front of her.

She waved with her hand. »Come here. Don’t be shy.« He stepped towards her, his eyes filled with terror. Luana hugged him with her hand.

»Why don’t we tell them what happened huh?« Adrien remained quiet. »Not a talker, I see.«

She looked around to every boy. »You see Adrien here has been stuck in the blue rank for quite some time. Poor marily, must have been so frustrated, so in his frustration and fear of never getting a higher rank he killed his customer.«

A loud gasp rose amongst the boys and Adrien’s eyes started to tear up. Tivon was shocked.

»Adrien decided not to tell me, and almost gave a heart attack to the other jade boy when he found out the body in the room.«

She brushed her hand through Adrien’s hair. »So, what should we do with you marily?«

Adrien started crying. »Please have mercy. I swear I’ll do better.«

»Huh? Mercy? I’m not sure if I know that word.« She looked at him, her eyes viscous.

Adrien grabbed the side of her dress, tears streaming down his face. »Please don’t kill me please.«

Kill? No, she can’t do that. I need to stop this, thought Tivon.

»Please I swear I’ll do better now, please don’t.«

Just as Tivon was about to step forward, Luana pulled out her silver knife out of her sleeve. As Tivon screamed for her to stop, she stabbed Adrien in the heart. »Eye for an eye.« She said with a cold voice.

Tivon covered his mouth, trying to repress his scream. She dropped the body on the floor. Luana snapped her fingers and a jade boy with a cloth came to her. She took it and started cleaning her knife.

»Let this be a lesson to everyone who ever thinks about breaking a rule.« She looked around, her eyes peering through the boys like an arrow. She put the knife back and smiled. »Now clean up and get back to work. I have a reputation to fix.«

And just like that she left.

Tivon was in shock. Everything happened so fast that his tired brain couldn’t comprehend. He glanced at Adrien’s bloodied corpse, but he quickly looked away, as the two boys dragged the body away. His stomach was turning, and he felt like he was about to lose consciousness. He sat down on his bed and passed out.

Even though Tivon lost his consciousness and slept till the midday, he still felt tired. Throughout his sleep, he repeatedly saw Adrien getting stabbed and his body covered in blood.

He felt sorry for that boy. He didn’t deserve to die like that. Or to die in this place.

Tivon forced his body to stand up and moved towards the stairs. I need to meet with Elias so that he gives me the sleep poison. Before he opened the door, he looked at the schedule board to make sure if Alieana was really coming today.

She indeed was written on the board in the afternoon, but there was also another customer scheduled for him. Tivon glanced at the clock and his heart stopped for a second. He was five minutes late.

He started running to his room. He needed to go three stories high and when he came to his room he stopped to catch a breath. He opened the door, unsurprised that his client was already waiting for him, standing by the window. The man was wearing a hat, and he had big moustaches, and he wore glasses.

Tivon bowed and said, »I’m sorry for being late.« He straightened his posture.

The man said nothing, he just ran to him and hugged him.

»U-umm sir, you mustn’t touch me for the first-«

Tivon stopped. There was something familiar about this hug. And the smell. This man smelled of salt with a dash of sweetness. He looked up.

»Elias?«

He smiled and removed the glasses, fake moustaches and his hat, letting his long hair fall down. Tivon felt such a relief seeing Elias in front of him. He hugged him back. Elias went through Tivon’s hair with his hand.

»Surprise.« He smiled.

»How did you get here?« He looked him in the eyes. »Don’t tell me…«

»It was my own money.«

»Elias you shouldn’t have.« He rested his head on Elias’ hand.

Elias smiled, but he immediately noticed dark circles beneath Tivon’s eyes and his slow breathing.

»Tivon are you okay?« Said Elias his voice worried.

Tivon smiled, while still leaning his head on Elias. »Yeah, of course.«

Elias crouched down. »Have you gotten any sleep?«

»Yes.« Lied Tivon.

»Tivon.«

Tivon sighed and sat down on the floor. »Not really. It’s hard to sleep when you can constantly think of... everything.«

Elias examined him. He probably hasn’t slept in days. He looked around the room. There was a big pile of pillows in the middle of the room. He approached them and sat down on them. He signalled to Tivon to lay down, but Tivon didn’t quite get it.

»Lay down and get some sleep.«

»Elias, I c-can’t. You used your own money to be here with me. I just can-«

Elias took his hand and pulled him on the pillows.

»Don’t bother. Your well-being is more important to me.«

The pillows were soft and comfortable. Tivon’s body was slowly sinking in. His eyes were heavy.

»Thank you Elias.« Said Tivon and closed his eyes.

Elias laid down. »No worries Tiv.«

He looked to his left to see that Tivon already fell asleep. He crossed his arms under his head and closed his eyes. I might take a nap too. No, I need to stay awake. He opened his eyes and stared at the ceiling for some time.

Then all of a sudden, he felt something on his chest. He looked down to see Tivon crawled up to him, his head and arm on his chest. Elias smiled and hugged him with his left arm pulling him closer. He was gently stroking his soft, smooth skin with his fingers, wishing for this one hour to pass by slowly.

When Tivon woke up, he finally felt like he regained some energy. He felt the brushing of Elias’ fingers against his skin.

»Good afternoon, sir.« Said Elias.

Tivon looked up to see that he was sleeping on Elias’ chest in between his arms. He blushed and wanted to stand up, but Elias pulled him closer. »Don’t worry, we still have time.«

Tivon relaxed himself in his arms. Laying on his chest gave Tivon a sense of safety. The warmth and the sweet, salty smell calmed him down.

»Just a couple of hours and I’ll be out of here.«

»Speaking of that.« He reached for his hat and from the hidden pocket inside of it, he pulled out a little bottle with a red liquid in it. He handed it to Tivon.

»Just a couple of drops will do the thing.«

Tivon looked at the little bottle and clutched it in his hand.

»You’ll be there right?«

»Yes. And if anything goes wrong, I’ll come.« Said Elias, still brushing his fingers against Tivon’s skin.

»Thank you.«

They lay there for minutes and then Elias said. »I’ll have to go now.«

Tivon sat up and nodded. Elias put on his hat, glasses, and moustaches, while Tivon hid the little bottle in the vase by the jug of wine.

He turned to Elias, who was ready to leave.

»Don’t ever grow a moustache.« Laughed Tivon.

»But they suit me.« Winked Elias and fixed his moustache.

Elias pulled him closer and hugged him gently. »Be careful.«

»You too.«

When Elias left, Tivon came to his cell to take his bag and clothes and hid it underneath his dress. He then came back to the room and hid it in the drawer.

While he was waiting for Alieana he cleaned the room, until he heard voices in the hallway. He took a breath, and quickly looked through the window to see Elias hiding in the shadows on the roof of the nearby house. He turned back to the door.

This is it. Just an hour and it’ll be over.

Chapter Text

When the door opened Tivon bowed. »Welcome to The Jade Paradise.« He said.

He looked up to see Alieana. She was wearing a bordo-red open-leg dress with long sleeves that were too tight for her rather thick body. She wore black eye shadow with a red eyeliner. Her long blond hair fell freely down over her left shoulder. Her bare neck was oriented with the Chrome Sphene.

She smiled and said. »You can call me my Lady.«

»Of course, my Lady.«

She entered the room and lay down on the pillows, uncovering her leg. Tivon tried to avoid looking at her as much as possible.

»Would you like some wine?« asked Tivon.

»Please.« She smiled.

Tivon stepped to the table with a vase, a jug of wine and two cups on it. He quickly looked behind his shoulder to see if Alieana was watching him. Fortunately, she was adjusting herself to the pillows. Tivon took that opportunity to grab the little bottle from the vase and poured some drops into the left cup. He then filled both of the cups with wine.

While he was pouring it, he asked. »Why the red dress my Lady?«

»My sister is being annoying. I’m just provoking her a little.« She smiled at Tivon. »Do you like it?«

»Red suits you well.« Lied Tivon, disgusted at his nice-sounding voice.

He grabbed the cups and offered her the cup. She took it and showed Tivon to sit beside her. He obeyed and sat besides, holding the cup with both hands.

»Tell me Tivon, how did you get to the green rank?«

Tivon took a sip out of the cup to show Alieana that there was nothing in the wine. »I’m just doing my job.«

Drink the damn wine woman.

She came closer to him. »What kind of job?«

He took her cup and drank a sip of it and before Alieana could say anything he pressed his lips against her allowing the liquid to pour into her mouth. When she drank it, Tivon pulled away.

Alieana was shocked, but quickly she smiled, so Tivon took another sip and repeated the process. Now Alieana held his face closer, kissing him back.

Tivon put down the cup as she pushed him on his back. Just two minutes and this will be over. He tried not to think about her. He tried to ignore her touches, her hands moving down his body.

Just two minutes.

Elias was hiding in a shadow on the roof, watching Tivon and Alieana through the window. He carefully watched every move Alieana made. His heart started racing when Alieana moved closer to Tivon. She’s too close. Just drink the cup.

His heart skipped a beat when Tivon took the cup from her and drank it. What are you doing? The moment Tivon kissed Alieana, Elias’ heart sank and he quickly looked away and closed his eyes. It’s just for a job, it’s just for a job.

He wanted to look back, but he caught something in the corner of his eyes. There were two shadows. When Elias realized what was going on, he just barely dogged an axe showed into the ground. He turned around to see Alieana’s guards. One carrying two axes and one with a Dao sword.

He quickly realized the situation they got stuck in. They know.

It’s a trap.

Tivon hated every single second of Alieana touching him, pulling herself closer to him. What is taking so long? She should have fallen asleep already.

Alieana moved her lips to his ear and whispered. »You’re probably asking yourself, why isn’t she asleep?«

Tivon’s eyes opened. Alieana moved away from him, reaching in between her cleavage and pulling out a little bottle with red liquid.

»Is this yours?«

Tivon was out of words. She threw away the bottle, reached to her leg and pulled out a knife that was adjusted on a little belt.

»My sister warned me about you.« She moved the knife down his face. Tivon’s face went white. »It’s such a shame she’ll have to execute such a beautiful young boy.« She pressed her lips to his ear and whispered. »But till then I’ll have you for myself.«

She giggled and pulled herself closer to him.

Elias pulled out his two swords moving his legs apart, slightly bending his knees. The two men launched at him, one of them showing his axe at him, Elias dodging it. He swung one of his swords towards him, slicing his leg. With his right sword he just barely dodged the men who attacked him with a Dao.

The man with axes fell on his left knee, Elias took this moment and punched the man with a Dao in the hand causing him to drop the sword. Elias wanted to reach for his pistol, but firing the pistol would be too loud. Somebody might see them.

Before Elias turned away the men with axes got on his feet, punching him in the face, causing him to fall on the ground. His mask fell off. He didn’t reach for it, for he quickly turned on his back end and blocked an axe to his face with his swords.

The man with a Dao swung his sword towards Elias’ head. Elias quickly moved his hands higher, causing the men to almost slice off the hand of the men with the axes. He screamed in pain and dropped the axe, blood spilling out of his sliced hand. The man with a Dao, stepped away, shocked at what he just did to his comrade.

Elias took this moment to stab the axe guy with his sword, pushing him off the edge of the roof, and taking the sword out of his chest.

He turned to the remaining guy, trying to catch his breath. The man just watched his mate fall to his death. He turned to him, his eyes filled with anger. He launched at him with a roar.

He swung his Dao viciously, slicing Elias’ side of the hand. He moved away and prepared himself for his next attack, but he lost control of the placement of the building’s roof. He forgot that there was a wall behind him. The man pushed him against the wall, leaning on him with his weight.

Elias couldn’t move his hands and before the men could unable his legs Elias kicked him in between the man’s legs. He could see the agonizing pain in the man’s eyes. The men loosened his grip and Elias pushed him off. The man took a step backwards, finding himself standing on the edge.

Elias allowed himself to quickly glance at Tivon and Alieana. He saw her on him, holding a knife over his head. Shit.

Before he knew it the man grabbed his shirt and pushed him to the ground by the edge. Elias lost the grip of his swords. The man's big hands grabbed Elias’ neck, slowly strengthening his grip. Elias could feel the air leaving his lungs.

He tried reaching for his sword. If he could just move an inch closer. His vision was slowly getting darker with each second. He tried to gasp for air, but the man’s grip was too strong. He closed his eyes and gathered all of the air, he could possibly get and reached for his sword.

He finally felt it beneath his fingers. Elias grabbed it and stabbed the man right under his ribs. The men loosened the grip and Elias gasped for air. The pain in his lungs was unbearable. It felt like someone set fire to his lungs.

But this was no time to sit around and breathe. He quickly took his other sword and turned to the men struggling with a sword at his side.

The man slowly pulled the sword out, screaming in the process. He dropped the sword on the ground and looked at Elias with angry eyes. The man lunged at him again, but this time Elias managed to avoid him, punching him in the fresh wound. The man screamed in agony, falling to his knees. Elias grabbed his head and sliced his throat. He let the man fall to the ground.

He felt a sting in his arm. He grabbed his hand, where the men wounded him. It’s deep. The pain stung in waves. He’ll need to stitch it before it gets worse. Then he remembered.

Tivon.

Tivon’s body was paralyzed. With every touch and every kiss Tivon’s body shivered. He knew he had to do something, but his body just wouldn’t move. And Alieana still had her knife in her hand.

»Everything alright, Tivon? You went suspiciously quiet.« She stroked his head. »Things didn’t go as planned? What a shame. The poor prince isn’t used to living a life outside the castle.«

Tivon’s pupils narrowed. How does she know?

Alieana smiled. »You think I didn’t recognize you? Well, most of the people living here wouldn’t, but I know you. It’s funny, even my sister doesn’t know. Nobody knows that the prince of Naydawin has been here for over a week.«

She stroked his hair. »To be here with the prince.« She again moved her lips to his ear and whispered. »The pleasure is all mine.«

Over the past months, Tivon could imagine all the different ways he could’ve died. But to die like this... He would never imagine dying in a pleasure house. Helpless, underneath a woman, who knew all your weaknesses and secrets.

He knew that if he moved, she would kill him, but if he did nothing The Green Woman would probably not make him see the next day. And if for some bizarre reason, they let him live, they would use him for his title.

With that thought in mind, death seemed like the best thing. So, Tivon closed his eyes and let the woman decide his fate.

Chapter Text

Tivon was ready to meet the fate that Alieana had for him. He was ready to either die or spend the rest of his days in this place. Elias said he wouldn’t let me stay here. He heard clashing swords outside on the roof. Something must have happened, otherwise, he would’ve come.

Tivon closed his eyes. I can’t depend my whole life on him. I chose to leave the kingdom, I chose this life. I’m not going to throw it away.

He opened his eyes and grabbed his pin and pulled it out. With a sudden swing, he stabbed the sharp end of the pin in Alieana’s neck. Tivon was careful to stab her directly where the carotid artery would be.

Alieana’s eyes widened. »W-what?«

She could feel the bitter taste of blood in her mouth. »Y-you.« She grabbed the knife and right as she pressed it on Tivon’s neck, Tivon pulled out the pin from her neck, allowing dark blood to fly down her body, pouring like a river.

Alieana dropped the knife and covered her wound with both hands. It was too late. No pressure applied to the wound would help. She started choking on the blood that began pouring out of her mouth.

She looked down at Tivon, her eyes burning with anger. She grabbed her knife and swung it in the air. Tivon couldn’t move, her heavy body was holding him still. She lurched it towards his head, but the knife fell out of her hand, slightly scratching Tivon’s cheek. Alieana’s eyes rolled up and then her whole body fell, lifelessly on Tivon.

Tivon didn’t realise that he had been holding his breath all this time. He allowed himself to breathe.

I killed her. She’s dead. I killed her.

He started breathing hysterically. I killed a person. He tried to dig himself up from underneath the dead body. Panic rose in him when he couldn’t move her heavy body.

He heard banging on the window. He looked to his right to see Elias banging his elbow against the window, eventually breaking it. He didn’t mind the broken glass over the window and on the ground. He quickly jumped in and ran to Tivon. He pushed the dead body off him and pulled him closer.

He was breathing heavily. »Are you okay?«

He looked him in the eyes. Tivon just slowly nodded his body and mind in shock.

»We need to get out of here.«

Tivon nodded again and stood up to get his bag with clothes.

He was relieved to be in his normal, familiar clothes once again. He put on his mothers’ necklace and hid it under his shirt.

While he was changing, Elias bandaged his arm and took the necklace off Alieana. He turned to Tivon. »Let’s go.«

Elias cleared the glass around the broken window and attached the rope around the window's frame. He helped Tivon on the window still and on the rope.

Tivon looked down. There was quite a long way down. He breathed in and out and grabbed the rope. He slowly but surely came down, Elias right behind him.

Elias signalled him to follow. They moved down the narrow dark streets, trying to avoid as many people as they could. In time they came to the harbour, where The Rose Sparrow was preparing to set sail. The sun was setting down colouring the dark architecture in shades of orange.

Elias moved his hand. »Quickly, before they leave without us.«

»Did you tell Sabur to prepare the ship to sail tonight?« Asked Tivon while they were walking towards the ship.

»Yes.«

»What if the plan wouldn’t work?«

Elias helped him step up on the ship. »If you think I would leave without you... I wouldn’t. I would stay.«

Tivon smiled.

»Let’s get this to Sabur and then you can go rest.«

They headed to his cabin as the ship set sail. The cabin was dark as usual, only lit up by a lantern. Sabur sitting in his chair turned away.

»Do you have it?« Asked Sabur, unbothered to look at them.

Elias placed the heavy necklace on the table. »Hope it’s really worth all the trouble we had to go through.«

Sabur turned around and took the necklace. He examined it carefully and only then did he look at them. Elias’ arm was bloodied, his face bruised and the boy beside him, his skin was covered in blood, his look distant.

»You better didn’t cause me more trouble.«

»Even if we did, you’ll manage.« said Elias.

Sabur frowned at him. He carefully put the necklace in his coat pocket. He then reached for his drawer, pulled out a big sack of money and placed it in front of them.

»For now. You get the rest later.«

Elias took the sack and turned to the door, Tivon following him. They both quickly went through the door, before Sabur could say anything.

Elias took a breath. »Finally done with that.« He looked at Tivon, who was still rather quiet and not really there. »There is water below deck. You can clean yourself there and then go to sleep. Sleep through the whole day if you need to.«

They both saw Pit on the Forecastle, arguing about something with Nick.

»I’ll make sure he’s busy up here, so you can sleep in peace.«

Tivon quietly nodded. He looked up and smiled at Elias. »Thank you.« He glanced at his hand. »Is your hand going to be okay?«

»Don’t worry about me right now.« He smiled. »Worry about your sleep.«

Tivon nodded and headed below deck to the barrel full of fresh water. He took a bucket that was sitting beside it and filled it up. He hid himself in a dark corner and removed his shirt. He took a cloth and started cleaning the dried blood off him.

Tivon tried not to think about it. He tried to forget her face.

He glanced at his reflection in the water. There was blood over his face and hair.

You killed her.

He cleaned the cloth in clean water and started cleaning the blood off his face. He tried to tell himself that she was a bad person, that he was just protecting himself.

She is still a human being. You’re a murderer.

He pushed away the bucket and put on a shirt. Stop thinking about it.

He entered the room where all the crew's hammocks were. He slowly moved to his net and laid down. Try not to think about it and sleep. He closed his eyes, trying to steady his breathing by listening to the sound of the sea.

Even though he could still see Alieana’s face, feeling her heavy body on him, his weariness gave in and he fell asleep.

Tivon thought that Elias was joking when he said he could sleep through the whole day. He didn’t even know he was capable of sleeping for so long. He got woken up by the crew gathering in the room for dinner. Tivon quietly sneaked passed them and went on deck.

It was on deck when Tivon realized he slept through the whole night and day. It was afternoon, about an hour away from the sunset. He breathed the fresh salty air. He missed it.

His heart skipped a beat when he saw Elias leaning against the railing, looking at the open sea. His black braided hair flowed in the wind and where the light touched it, Tivon could see a dash of blue in it. Tivon approached him.

»Good afternoon.« Said Tivon.

Elias turned around and smiled. »Did you manage to get enough sleep?«

»I think I got enough for the whole week.« Laughed Tivon and leaned on the railing beside Elias. »How is your arm?«

»Had to stitch it, but I think it will heal up pretty well.« His eyes were fixed on the sea.

Tivon sighed. »I’m so glad I’m not at The Jade Paradise anymore.«

And then he remembered.

The contract.

He forgot it. He suddenly looked at Elias, his eyes filled with terror.

»The contract! I forgot to take it.« He imagined Elias to start panicking, but he just smiled. »Why are you smiling? She has my-«

Elias put his finger on his lips and reached for his pocket. He pulled out Tivon’s contract. Tivon’s face shined. »When did you?«

»The night before, I snuck in through the window.« He ripped the paper into a million pieces and threw them into the sea. »And I also left a little surprise for Luana.«

»What kind of surprise?«

»I poured some highly flammable liquid around her table. When she’ll light up her cigarette it will catch fire. It might burn down the whole place.« He looked at Tivon’s worried expression. »Don’t worry the boys will have time to escape, but it will destroy their contracts. It’s the least I can do to help them.«

Tivon smiled. »You helped them a lot.«

Elias laughed. »It’s weird. I don’t remember the last time I did something good.«

»I’ve seen you do a lot of good things.«

Elias looked at him with a smirk. »What good things do you have in mind?«

Tivon blushed. »N-not those.« He slightly punched his hand.

»Au! Be careful. It’s still healing.« cried Elias.

»S-sorry.« Apologized Tivon. Elias smiled and ruffled his hair.

They laughed and looked back at the sea. Tivon came closer to him and asked quietly. »Did you know The Rose Sparrow were selling boys to The Green Woman?«

Elias’ body tensed. »No. I didn’t. I thought about it when you first told me. They probably did it before I joined them.« He sighed. »The boys kidnapped before me were probably the last ones sold to slavery.«

»But you weren’t.« Finished Tivon. He looked at him. Elias’ eyelids were loose, his lips cornered.

»They didn’t sell me into slavery, but they made me a murderer.«

Tivon looked down at the waves crashing on the side of the ship. He somehow understood him now.

Elias snapped back and looked at Tivon with a smile. »Can I show you something?«

»Sure?«

He moved towards the main mast and looked up. »Up there.«

Tivon looked up. The mast must have been at least thirty meters high. Tivon looked at Elias, a bit scared of what he might want to show him.

Elias offered him his hand. »Do you trust me?«

He did.

Without hesitation, after everything they’ve got through together, he trusted him. And with that trust, Tivon grabbed his hand.

Chapter Text

Tivon didn’t like high places. They reminded him of the accident and the fall that crooked his back. He wasn't afraid of the fall or the weird feeling in his stomach when he fell, but rather of the ground—the hard ground he fell on and the pain that followed.

He was almost at the top of the main mast. It felt to him like he had been climbing up for hours.

»Are you doing okay Tivon?« Screamed Elias from below him.

»Never better.« Said Tivon with a shaking voice.

He looked down, to see Elias right at his feet. He shouldn't have looked down because now he realized how high he really was.

»Don't look down Tivon.«

Tivon nodded and looked back up. He could see the end of the mast. Just a little bit higher.

»It still stands that if you fall I'll catch you.« Said Elias with a smile.

Tivon climbed forward. »I know, I know.«

He made a couple of steps further and Tivon was at the top of the crows' nest. He sat down to catch his breath. He looked at Elias who just climbed up.

»Why did we do this exactly?« asked Tivon trying to calm his rushing heartbeat.

Elias offered him his hand. Tivon took it and Elias pulled him up.

»To show you this.«

Tivon turned around. His eyes widened. The sun was just about to set, colouring the wide sea a beautiful orange colour. From up there he could see the whole endless sea. And the breeze up here was so much more pleasant than on deck.

Tivon never cared or dreamed of being a bird or being able to fly high up in the sky, but here he felt like one. And he felt so free.

»Beautiful, isn't it?« Said Elias leaning on the railing.

Tivon smiled and nodded. »It reminds me of the view from the castle. But here, it's much more beautiful.«

»Glad you like it.« Smiled Elias his check blushing a little.

Tivon looked back, but Elias didn't turn his eyes away from him. After some time he asked. »Can you see anything with your eye? You know because of the light.«

Tivon moved away his hair, uncovering his crocked colourless eye. Elias leaned forward to get a better look at it.

»No, nothing.« He removed his hand, letting his hair fall. He smiled. »You asked that just to see it, didn't you?«

Elias blushed. »N-no I did not.« He stuttered.

»It's okay. If you want to see it just ask me.«

Elias looked down. »But then I won't be able to contain myself.«

»Huh?« Tivon looked at him and blushed bright pink.

»Nothing.« Smiled Elias.

Tivon looked back at the sea, his cheek blushing. »Your eyes are beautiful too.«

»T-they are?«

Tivon was intrigued to hear a genuine surprise in Elias’ voice.

Tivon giggled. »Yes... They remind me of a flower that grows outside the castle walls. The Cobily flower. Rea and I always picked them and made flower crowns with them. When we had the chance to sneak outside of course.«

»Is Rea your friend?«

Now that he thought about it, Elias knew so little about him. He never told him about Rea or much else about his home. It never crossed his mind.

»Yes she’s my friend, the only one I had.« Said Tivon. »Beside my mother.«

He thought about them. Rea’s warm smile and mother's hugs. He missed them.

Tivon sat down and leaned his head on the railing. Life back then was easier. No danger, no hiding, no blood on his hands. His body shivered.

»Does it get easier?« He asked after a minute of silence.

“Does what get easier?”

»You know… killing someone.«

Elias leaned his back on the railing, eyes fixed on the ground, thinking. »The first one you never forget. I still can’t, and it’s been years. I can’t promise that it’ll be easy, but I’ll make sure that it ends here. You shouldn’t walk down the path I took.« said Elias. He looked at Tivon with his heartwarming smile. Tivon knew he meant it.

»Speaking of that.« He reached to his belt and pulled out the dagger that he gave to Tivon on the island. »I managed to get it back.« He handed it to Tivon. He took it and adjusted it on his belt.

»Thank you.« Said Tivon and looked back at the setting sun.

They sat there in silence watching the sunset, waiting for the orange sky to turn dark.

Elias stood up. »We should head back down before it gets too cold.«

He helped Tivon get to his feet. Tivon looked down from the crow’s nest to where he was climbing up just a moment ago.

»Ugh, now I just need to get down.«

»There's a quicker way.« Said Elias.

»What do you mean there's a quicker wa-«

Elias grabbed him underneath Tivon’s arms and pulled him closer. »Hold tight!«

With the other hand, he grabbed a rope and before Tivon knew, Elias jumped off. Tivon hugged him tight like he was holding himself for his dear life. They were falling around the main mast, Elias holding Tivon close to him. When they reached the deck, Elias let go of the rope and released Tivon was still clutching to him. When Tivon finally made sure they were standing on hard ground, he let go of him.

Elias laughed and started walking to his cabin. »Good night Tiv.«

When Tivon processed what had just happened, he smiled and said quietly. »Good night.«

When Tivon was walking below deck to his hammock, he was smiling to himself all the way there. He passed the pirate group enjoying their dinner, ignoring their looks towards him. He sat down in his hammock and took out Ohil.

He laid down and fidgeted it in his hand, thinking about Elias’ eyes. He didn't know how long till they landed, but he was excited to get to spend that whole time with Elias.

»Did lover boy make it?«

Tivon jumped out of his net and turned to see Pit with his fellow mates beside him.

Tivon put the Ohil in his pocket.

»Oh, why are ya hidin’ it now? Come on let's see it.«

An agreeable Ay rose amongst his mates.

Tivon didn't move, but his eyes were reflecting anger.

»Why the angry look, huh?!« He moved closer and stroked his face. »Just want to ask ya something.«

Tivon tried not to show it, but he could feel his body started to shiver.

»My mates were talking, and we've concluded... Why didn't ya tell us you worked at The Jade Paradise?« He moved closer and Tivon was forced to move backwards, hitting the wall.

»How did ya even get out shary?« He moved his face closer. »Did lover boy help ya?«

Tivon stayed quiet. Pit forcefully pushed him against the wall and enabled him to move. »I asked you something!« he rasped.

Tivon tried not to flinch. I must show him that I'm not scared. He looked Pit directly in the eyes with the angriest look he could manage. For a second it threw Pit off, but he quickly found another reason to mock him.

»Why are ya always hidin’ yer eye?« He moved his hair, reviling his scared eye. »Oh, that's why. I understand why ya would hide it. Really ugly to look at.«

Tivon wanted to punch him and run away, but the pressure of Pit’s body was too much for Tivon.

»What happened?« Asked Pit, pushing him harder against the wall.

Tivon stayed silent, fixing his look on him. Like I would ever tell you.

Pit pushed his knee into Tivon’s leg. Tivon tried to suppress a cry as pain spread through his leg.

»I asked ya what happened?!« Pit said, anger rising in his voice.

Tivon quietly reached for his dagger hanging on the belt. He didn't turn his eye off him when he said. »The same thing that will happen to your eye.«

Tivon swung his dagger towards Pit's eye, slicing through it.

Pit didn't even have time to scream. He released Tivon and put his hand on the wounded eye. Pit looked at his bloodied hand and then at Tivon, his eyes radiating anger. »You...«

Suddenly he swung his clenched fist at Tivon’s face, knocking him down. »For a shary ya sure allow yourself a lot of.«

Before Tivon could stand up Pit kicked him in the ribs. »Ever since yer annoying ass came here ya just cause problems.«

He kicked him again and again, this time even harder and Tivon could feel his skin rip apart. Pit grabbed him by his shirt, pulled him up and pushed him against the wall increasing the impact on him.

»Tell me shary, where is your lover boy now?!«

Tivon was determent he wouldn't give in to his playing. He knew Pit wouldn't dare to kill him.

Pit's look was furious. He grabbed his pocketknife and pressed it against Tivon’s neck.

»I said, tell me!« He screamed.

He pushed the knife closer. Tivon could feel the edge of the knife slicing his skin. Tivon’s heart started racing. This creepy man was about to kill him.

Chapter Text

Pit pushed the knife closer, and Tivon thought that this man was about to kill him.

Then suddenly someone pressed the knife against Pit's neck.

Elias leaned to his ear and said with a cold rasped voice. »Make another move and I will put that knife in your throat and then I will paint a nice picture with your blood for your mother to see from hell.«

Pit dropped Tivon without further hesitation, letting him hit the ground hard. Elias pulled Pit away, knife still stuck to his throat. When he was far enough from Tivon, he released him, but still slightly cutting him with the knife.

Elias quickly put the knife into his belt on his thigh and carefully grabbed Tivon. He turned and pushed forward through the silent crew, peering through everyone who would dare look at him, with a deadly look.

Tivon’s body was in pain. He could feel the wet blood beneath his ribs. His right side of the face was beginning to swell and his back hurt from the pressure against the wall. He looked up and he could just barely see Elias’ resentful, but worried face through his swelling eye.

»I can w-walk, you know.« Said Tivon, surprised at how weak his voice was.

Elias didn’t say anything, he just rushed to his cabin and closed the door behind him. He put Tivon down on the chair and turned to his drawer to find some kind of cloth, then turned to the table where he had a bowl of water. Elias soaked the cloth in water and knelt before Tivon. He gently pressed it to his bruised cheek.

Tivon flinched when it touched him and as he moved the pain from the wound on his side spread like lightning through his body. He grabbed his side. Elias looked down to see Tivon’s bloodied shirt. He moved his hands to take off his shirt, but he quickly moved them away. Tivon grabbed his hand.

»Y-you’ll need to help me get it o-off.«

Elias nodded and Tivon took the corners off his shirt to pull it off. When he moved his arms upwards the pain worsened, and Elias quickly helped him get the shirt over his head.

Elias examined the wound. It wasn’t deep, but it was still quite big. Pit must have kicked him really hard.

»I need to get the bandages.« He soaked the cloth in water and carefully pressed it against the wound. He looked at Tivon. »I’ll be back in a minute.«

Tivon nodded and Elias quickly ran outside into the night. When the door closed Tivon looked at the little mirror on the table. He moved his hair to look at his eye. Ugly to look at!

Words rang in his mind like a drum. Disabled! Crippled! Degenerate! No matter how far he was or how long he hadn’t seen his father, he could hear him every time. Am I really such a burden to everyone?

He looked at the knife on the table. Am I really that useless? Tivon knew the answer to that question. He swiftly grabbed the knife.

When Elias grabbed all the bandages, he needed he rushed back to his cabin. When he opened the door, he dropped the bandages in shock. There was a knife on the floor and all around pieces of brown hair. Tivon looked at him, his crooked eye no longer covered by hair.

»T-Tivon?«

Tivon looked down at the ground. »I always hid the eye because my father told me it’s ugly and that people would think less of me if they saw it. But now I realized that he made it that way. He made it hideous.« He looked in the mirror. »I want to forget my father. I want to be free from him.«

Elias came to him and Tivon looked at him. »I don’t want to hide it anymore. I want to show them that I am more than my father.«

Elias brushed his hand over the scar. »You are more than your father. You are more than your flaws.«

Tivon smiled, letting Elias hold his face. Elias quickly glanced at the wound on Tivon. »The wound!«

He quickly let go of Tivon and grabbed the bandages scattered around the floor. He knelt before Tivon and started cleaning his wound.

»If it hurts, tell me.« Said Elias.

Tivon nodded. Elias pressed the wet cloth on his wound. Tivon tried to hide the shivers of pain. Every time he touched him with the wet cloth, the pain got worse. He didn’t tell him. He was too tired. The beating and the pain made him tired.

When Elias cleaned the blood around, he took the bandages and started tying it around Tivon’s waist. Tivon’s body shivered every time Elias’ fingers brushed against his skin. Elias leaned closer and now Tivon could feel his breath on his shoulders, Tivon’s lips almost touching him. He was so close to him, his breath on him, his warmth close, but Tivon’s tiredness gave in and he leaned his head on Elias’ shoulder.

»Is everything okay?« Asked Elias, his voice soft, but still worried.

»Just... tired.« Managed Tivon.

Elias finished tying the bandage and then picked Tivon up. If Tivon had any energy left, he would probably want himself to walk back to his net. Elias laid him down on his bed.

»W-wait, but this is your bed.«

Elias straightened his posture. »You’re not going down there.« His voice was raspy.

Tivon’s eyes were heavy, his voice weak. »Where will you s-sleep?«

Elias sat down by the bed and smiled. »Don’t worry about me.«

Tivon looked up at the ceiling. Despite Elias being there he felt alone. He didn’t want to admit it to himself, but he was scared. He reached to Elias’ shoulder and quietly said. »Don’t go anywhere.«

Elias gently placed his hand on his. »I won’t.«

»Promise?« Whispered Tivon.

Elias smiled. »Promise.«

All that Tivon managed was just a quiet thank you before he fell asleep.

Elias sat there, holding his hand for a moment, then he lightly let go and quietly headed outside the cabin, making sure he didn’t wake him up.

I’m sorry Tivon, I can’t keep that promise.

Pit was washing his eye wound with water, angrily talking to himself. He was enraged that shary managed to cut his eye, leaving him blind. I’m going to show that shary-

Someone grabbed his collar and pushed him against the wall. Pit could just see Elias’ eyes filled with wrath before he got a punch to his face. Elias then threw him in the nearby barrels. Pit hastily grabbed his knife, but Elias was quicker. He grabbed his hand and twisted it, and with a pop, dislocated his shoulder.

Pit screamed in pain. »Please sto-« He cried.

Elias punched him again, this time in the ribs. He grabbed him by his shirt and shoved him at the wall, punching him again.

»That will be enough Elias.« Said a coarse voice behind them.

Elias didn’t let go of Pit as he slowly turned around to see Sabur patiently standing behind them.

»Put him down Elias.«

Elias didn’t let his eyes off Sabur when he showed Pit to the ground, making sure that the fall hurt.

»Did I ever tell you to beat up my crew?«

Elias’ eyes were burning with rage. »He hurt Tivon.«

»I’ve said not to get attached to that boy Elias.«

Elias stepped closer. »Don’t tell me what to do.«

Sabur forcefully grabbed Elias’ hand and showed the tattooed wrist to his face. »I tell you what to do.« He said with a cold deep voice.

Elias pulled away and walked past him. »If anyone dares touch Tivon,« He stopped and looked over his shoulder. »I won’t hesitate to kill every single person on this ship.«

Tivon was still sleeping when Elias came back to the cabin. Elias washed his bloodied hands with water. His knuckles were bruised so he took a bandage and tied them around his hand, so Tivon wouldn’t see them. Then he quietly sat down beside the bed and sighed.

Why did you have to get stuck with me? He looked at Tivon's hand that was still reaching for him. Why did you choose me? He gently brushed his fingers against his hand. Why me? He crashed his head on the bed.

I need to get you out of here. He buried his face in the sheets. But, how? If somehow, I manage to help him escape, they’ll find him. He looked up.

Tivon’s peaceful face was just barely visible in the dim light of the lantern. I don’t want you to leave. I want you to stay. I don’t want to be alone. Elias squeezed his hand.

I’m being selfish.

He leaned his head back on the bed and closed his eyes. I’ll find a way. I’ll find a way to get you out of here somehow. He felt tired. And this time, I promise.

Elias fell asleep, still holding Tivon’s hand, with no intention of letting it go.

Chapter Text

Tivon woke up, his face and body hurting. He slowly tried to sit up noticing that the wound had opened again and that his bandages were covered in blood. I need to change them.

He wanted to sit up, noticing Elias’ hand still holding his, sitting by the bed, asleep. His braid loosened, black silky hair falling freely down his face and back. He looks so peaceful when he sleeps.

Tivon cautiously sat up, trying not to move his hand and wake up Elias. He was surprised to feel pain in his leg, but he chose to ignore it. He brushed his fingers against Elias’ hand, feeling the bandages. Those weren’t there yesterday. He carefully removed them, revealing the wounds and bruises on his knuckles. What did you do now?

»What are you doing?« Mumbled Elias.

Tivon blushed, covering his hands. »N-nothing.«

Elias fixed his posture and looked at Tivon. He didn’t say anything, he was just silently looking at him. Tivon blushed even more. »W-why are you looking at me?«

»He really did a number on you.« Sighed Elias and looked away.

»It will heal.« Said Tivon.

Elias buried his face in the bed. »I know it will.« He mumbled. After some time, he moved his hand to the side and said. »I’m sorry I didn’t come earlier.«

»If you’d come earlier, I wouldn’t be able to slit his eye.«

Elias looked up and laughed. »You cut him quite deep.« He looked at his knuckles. »He won’t bother you anymore. I made sure of that.«

»Huh?!«

Elias hid his hands. »What?«

The moment he said that he mumbled. »N-nothing.«

»Elias what did you do?« His expression was angry, but his eyes were worried.

Elias sighed and looked away. »The same he did to you... Just a little worse.«

»Elias!«

Elias looked at him and raised his voice. »He hurt you, Tivon! What was I supposed to do? Nothing?!«

»You didn’t have to beat him up!«

»He is a bad person, Tivon. Stop giving him chances. Not all people are good and not everyone deserves second chances. He deserved what he got.«

Tivon shut his mouth. He’s right.

Tivon sighed and bent his waist a little, causing pain to rush through his body. It wasn’t till then that Elias noticed the blood on Tivon’s bandages.

He went to his feet. »Why didn’t you say anything?«

He rushed to the table gathering fresh bandages and the bowl of water and sat beside Tivon.

»Not here on the bed. It’ll make a mess.« Said Tivon preparing to stand up.

»You worry too much.« He sat him back down.

Tivon sighed and smiled. »Tell me about it.«

Elias reached for his waist, but Tivon stopped him. »I can do it myself.«

Elias nodded and Tivon slowly unfolded the bandages. The wound must have opened when I was sleeping. Elias soaked the cloth in the water and cleaned Tivon’s wound, being careful that he didn’t apply too much pressure. Tivon then proceeded to tie the bandages around. When he finished, he looked at Elias’ hands, bandaged poorly.

»You did a sloppy job.« He took his hands. »Can I do it?«

Elias nodded and Tivon removed the bandages, letting them fall on the ground. He soaked the cloth in water and cleaned off the remaining dried blood. He then started tying the bandages precisely and carefully around his hand.

His hands are so soft. And gentle, thought Elias. Tivon lightly tied up the bandage. He held Elias’ hand to his face and gently kissed it. »Should be okay now.« He said with a smile.

Elias blushed a bright red, up to his ears. Tivon giggled and went up on his feet, but as soon as he applied pressure to his leg, the pain rushed through his body. Before he knew it, he started falling, but Elias caught him in time.

»Are y-you okay?«

»I probably pulled a muscle.« Said Tivon.

When he looked up at Elias he almost crashed in his face. They both blushed.

»Y-you should lay down.«

Tivon nodded and Elias helped him get back in bed.

»Do you need anything? A-are you hungry?« Asked Elias.

Tivon’s face was still red. »I’m not hungry, for now, but a shirt will be fine.«

Elias has just realized that Tivon hasn’t been wearing a shirt since yesterday. »Oh, y-yeah. S-sorry.«

He quickly turned to his drawer to find a fitting shirt. He pulled out a white shirt, that probably didn’t fit Elias anymore. He gave it to Tivon. »I hope it’s not too big.«

Tivon carefully put it on, struggling because of the pain under his rib. »It’s okay.«

The shirt looked like a bag on Tivon, and he had to roll up the sleeves to fit him more. He didn’t mind it. It was soft and it smelled of him. A sweet, salty smell.

Elias put his hair in a messy bun, closed his eyes and sighed. He’s tired, thought Tivon. Tivon adjusted himself on the bed and said. »Come here.«

Elias looked at him. »Huh?«

Tivon patted his lap with his hand. »Lay here. You look tired.«

»I’m okay.« Said Elias and looked away.

I am tired. I didn’t sleep well last night. No, I don’t need to rest. He slightly glanced at Tivon, who was still waiting for him. But he’s there.

Elias sighed and put off his boots. Tivon moved to the left side of the bed and made room for Elias, who lay down.

»The bed is too small for both of us.«

»Then come closer.« Tivon patted his lap again.

»You’re killing me.« Said Elias and leaned his head on Tivon’s lap.

»I know.« Smiled Tivon and put his hand on his shoulders, being careful not to touch his back or hair.

Elias’ body was tight, heat spreading to his head. How can I relax like this? He could feel his face turning red. It’s soft.

Tivon started stroking him with his fingers. Elias forced himself to relax. He breathed out and closed his eyes. He tried to fall asleep, but the same words came to him as the previous night.

Selfish.

»Tivon,« He said after a minute. »I’ll find a way to get you off this ship.«

»Huh?«

»It’s dangerous for you here. I need to find a way to get you as far away from here. And I will find a way. I could’ve probably done it before. And even the job at The Jade Paradise... I could’ve just said no to Sabur.« He grabbed the sheets with his hand. »I had so many chances to get you away from this ship, from these people.« He laughed. »But I couldn’t. I wanted you to stay, to be with me, so I wouldn’t be alone.« He buried his face in Tivon’s lap and mumbled. »I’m so goddamn selfish.«

»You are not selfish... Maybe I am, because I don’t want to go.«

Elias’ eyes opened wide. He turned around to him. Tivon was smiling at him, his kind eyes looking at Elias, right into his soul.

»But Tivon, it’s dangerous for you here.« Said Elias.

»It may be. I thought of us running away together, but I knew they would find us somehow. In the beginning, I thought of running away myself, but just like you, I couldn’t. I didn’t want to leave you.«

Elias sat up, leaning on his hands and his eyes fixed on Tivon. »Don’t say that, Tivon. Don’t give me more reasons for you to stay here.«

Tivon moved his hands to his neck and removed the silver lily necklace. He held it in his hand, looking at it.

»My mother gave me this necklace the night before I ran away. It’s been in our family for a long time. She said that I should give this to the person I cherish and love the most.«

He smiled. Tivon grabbed Elias’ hand and placed the necklace in the palm of his hand.

»N-no, Tivon.« He pushed it back to Tivon. »It’s the only thing you have from your mother. And there’s probably a million people you know that you could give it to. I can’t accept it.« Stuttered Elias.

Tivon held his hands. »Elias, there is no other person I would give it to. I want you to have it.« He pushed his hands back to him.

Elias opened his hand to look at it, not knowing what to say to him.

»Plus, you already gave me two gifts. It’s only fair that I give you something too.« winked Tivon.

Elias laughed and then he pulled Tivon closer to him, hugging him tight. »Thank you.« He finally said.

Tivon hugged him back. »Will you be able to fall asleep now?«

»Yeah.« Said Elias with a smile.

He pulled away from Tivon and put on the necklace. He hid it underneath his shirt, so nobody could see it. Elias laid back on Tivon’s lap, closing his eyes. The warmth of him helped him fall asleep.

Elias fell asleep quickly. He finally told Tivon what he meant to tell him for so long. And now that he got rid of this burden and knowing that Tivon wanted to stay, he could finally rest.

Chapter Text

They were both awake, but they didn’t want to move. Well, Elias didn’t have a reason to move. He didn’t want to move from the comfort that was Tivon’s lap. Tivon was stroking his arm, swiftly with his fingers.

»Don’t you have to do things outside?« Said Tivon, hoping that he would say no.

»Probably.« He snuggled closer to Tivon. »But I don’t want to.«

Tivon smiled and caressed Elias’ arm.

»Do you know any stories?« Asked Elias after a minute of silence.

»What stories?«

»Any stories. Doesn’t need to be interesting. I just want to listen to your voice.«

Tivon blushed. »I don’t know any at the top of my mind right now.« He looked through a small window by the bed. »But I could read to you if you have any books.«

Elias sighed. »I can’t read, so I never had a reason to have books here.« His eyes suddenly glew up. »But I know where I could get some.«

He quickly went to his feet and put on his boots. »I’ll be right back.«

Before Tivon could say anything, Elias closed the door behind him. He had to smile to himself. There is still a child somewhere inside of him. It was true. When Elias was around others, he was tough and bold, but whenever he was alone with Tivon, he wasn’t afraid to show his inner child.

Tivon moved to the side of the bed. He moved the shirt up to see if he needed to change the bandages. They weren’t bloodied so Tivon figured that the wound was already healing.

He then tried to stand up to see if his leg muscle was any better. Tivon could walk, but it still hurt a little. He caught his reflection in the mirror. At first, he was surprised to see his damaged eye uncovered by the hair, but he quickly remembered that he was the one to cut the hair. The wound on his other cheek was healing too. It should be okay in a couple of days.

Elias rushed back through the door, his hands full of books.

»Where did you get them from?«

»They are lying around in the map room.« He dropped the books and a bowl of dried fruit on the bed. »And I also got us something to eat.«

He sat on the bed and bit into an apple. He threw one at Tivon. »Is your leg better?«

Tivon nodded and bit into the apple. He sat beside Elias and looked at the books. Herbs and Leaves, The Unknown Seas, Historic Sailing Ships, Ships of the Line, Pirate Codex, Flowers of the Islands …

»These don’t have stories in them. They’re just practical books.«

Elias finished his apple and laid down, putting off his boots.

»I don’t mind. You can still read them to me.« He looked at him, his eyes like a child's one. »If you don’t mind of course.«

»I don’t mind.« Giggled Tivon.

He got on the bed and leaned on the wall, where the window was. He took the first book and started reading, every so often munching on a dried fruit.

He read about ships, sailors and pirates, flowers and herbs and even cooking recipes. Elias didn’t mind. He wasn’t listening to text and long paragraphs. He couldn’t care less for the words of sails, Sileis flowers or how to make the most efficient knot for the mast sails.

Elias was listening to Tivon’s voice. His silvery, modulated voice was like a lullaby to him. For a moment it reminded him of a distant memory, his mother reading him bedtime stories. Even though he could barely remember his mother or his home, in that moment he felt like he was back home.

When it got darker, Tivon didn’t stop. He took a lantern and continued reading. Even though his voice was getting tired, he didn’t want to stop. Elias looked too satisfied. When he got to the last page of the final book, Tivon asked.

»Why didn’t you kill me that night?«

Elias noticed the change in Tivon’s voice when he asked the question.

Elias turned to him. »You mean the night we attacked the merchant ship?«

Tivon nodded. Elias looked at the ceiling. He closed his eyes, listening to the calm and quiet night.

»I’m not sure. It was actually the first time that I hesitated to kill someone.« He opened his eyes but avoided Tivon’s eyes. He smiled. »It may sound cliche, but that night something inside me said, that I shouldn’t kill you.«

Tivon closed the book and put it aside. »Well, I’m glad for that little voice of yours.«

Elias sat up and leaned on the wall beside Tivon, their shoulders touching. He smiled. »Yeah, me too.«

Elias brushed his fingers against Tivon. Tivon looked at him and their eyes met. Elias reached his hand to his scar. He gently followed its line.

Elias never noticed it before, but Tivon’s crooked eye looked like an endless white void. It felt like the longer you stared at it, the longer you were falling into it. Tivon parted his lips, letting out a little breath.

»Can I?« Asked Elias.

Tivon leaned closer. »You don’t need to ask.«

Elias cupped Tivon’s face and kissed him. It felt like a whole decade passed since Elias last felt Tivon’s lips on him. He never realized how much he missed it. His plump smooth lips.

He never realized how much he missed him.

Tivon put his hands on Elias’ chest, leaning closer. He spread his legs, coming closer to Elias, quickly finding himself sitting in his lap. Their tongues touched, sending a rush of heat through Elias’ body. He put his hands on Tivon’s waist, slowly sliding his hands under his shirt, feeling the bandages and then the scar underneath his fingers. It felt rough in comparison to his soft, smooth skin.

Their kiss parted only when Elias removed Tivon’s shirt, gently laying him on his back and then again pressing his lips to his. Tivon pulled himself closer like he was longing for his kiss and his body.

Tivon moved his hands under Elias’ shirt, feeling his tight muscles against his hands. Elias helped him remove the shirt. He held Tivon’s hands and lightly pressed them against the bed.

Elias opened his eyes, and they met Tivon’s. His face was so pure, so beautiful. Tivon’s face was lightly coloured pink, with his eyes, filled with kindness and trust. He was staring right into Elias’ soul. Undressing his flaws and mistakes right in front of him.

Elias tilted closer and whispered. »If you don’t want to or if it makes you uncomfortable-«

But Tivon raised his head to his ear and whispered. »Don’t stop.« And kissed him behind his ears.

Elias pulled him closer, kissing his lips, his jaw, and his neck. With every touch and with every kiss Elias felt this warmth spreading through his body, that he had never before.

He never told Tivon how much he actually hated this ship and the people on it, but never in a million years would he think that he would ever feel safe anywhere. But he felt safe with Tivon.

With him there he felt warm, he felt like home.

For just a moment they forgot about everyone and everything.

They forgot about Pit, The Jade Paradise, The Green Woman, The Kingdom of Naydawin.

They forgot about their past, their scars and their fears. It was just them, the dark room lightened up with a lantern and waves crashing on the side of the ship, lulling them to sleep.

They’ve fallen asleep with their bodies close to each other, their breathing calm and steady, their hands holding together. They’ve fallen asleep in the safety of each other’s embrace.

Elias woke up facing Tivon, watching him sleep peacefully. He was still holding Tivon’s hand. With the other hand, he softly went through his scar, following the line from his hairline to the end underneath his eye. To Elias, the scar was so uniquely beautiful.

Elias reached for the necklace around his neck. The small silver lily just barely fitted in his hands. Give it to the person you love and cherish the most. He closed his eyes and fidgeted the necklace in his hand. The person you love and cherish the most...

In an instant, he opened his eyes, his face turned bright red. Had he just confessed his love to me?! He looked at Tivon. And I noticed just now.

His closed eyes, short eyelashes resting on them and his smooth lips slightly parted. Elias held the necklace firmly in his hand. He moved himself closer to Tivon and pressed his lips against his forehead. Then he pressed his forehead on his.

»I love you too.« He whispered.

Tivon moved his head up, his lips slightly brushing against Elias’.

»Do you really?« Whispered Tivon.

He didn’t know if Tivon had been awake all this time, but he didn’t really care.

»Yes.« He said softly.

Tivon came closer, leaning his head on his chest, Elias hugging his arms around him.

Elias thought about the night he first saw Tivon. Or rather he first noticed him. If Tivon hadn’t run from behind the barrels, they would just leave the ship to sink not knowing someone might still be alive.

He also thought about if that voice wouldn’t speak to him that night. What if he did kill him? He quickly brushed that thought away, hugging Tivon closer to him. They both quickly fell back asleep.

It was the last peaceful night, for they would never in a million years anticipated what would happen in the next few days.

Chapter Text

»Your hair is long again.« Said Elias as he was still lying in bed, watching Tivon put on a shirt.

Tivon went through his hair. »It does grow quite quickly.« He looked over his shoulder at Elias. »Want to cut it for me?«

Elias smiled and went to his feet. He grabbed the dagger on the table, while Tivon sat down.

It was just like a month ago when Elias had cut Tivon’s hair in the cell, but this time he didn’t shiver or immediately blush every time Elias touched him. He was there just like that day, but this time he trusted him. There were no more secrets between them. It was just them.

While Elias was doing his job Tivon said with a shaky voice. »Last night...«

»Mhmm?«

Tivon’s cheeks turned slightly pink. »I’m s-sorry if I wasn’t g-good enou-«

»What are you talking about? I should be the one apologizing.«

Tivon looked at him. »Why you? There’s probably been a bunch of men and women before me.«

Elias smiled cheerfully. »I may flirt with almost everyone, but no you’re the lucky one.”

Tivon’s face lit up red. »Really?!«

Elias nodded. »You probably expected a high royal person even for your first time. I’m sorry I’m just a mere pirate.«

Tivon looked at his feet and smiled. »I wouldn’t wished it to be anyone else.«

Elias leaned forward and whispered in his ear. »No need to sugarcoat me, Your Highness.«

Tivon poked him in the stomach but still found himself laughing.

Elias ruffled Tivon’s hair. »I’m done.« He stroke the little braid by Tivon’s right shoulder. »And I added a little something.«

Tivon looked in the mirror and tilted his head to the left. There was a little braid hanging by his ear.

»It looks nice.« He smiled.

Elias grabbed his shirt from the floor and put it on, hiding the necklace underneath the shirt. »Is your leg okay enough for you to go outside? You need some fresh air.«

Tivon carefully stood up to see if he could walk. He took some steps around the room, surprised to see that the pain had gone completely away. He looked at Elias and nodded.

Elias turned to the door, but before he could open them Tivon stopped him.

»Can I do your hair?«

As soon as he said that he remembered why Elias’ hair was long, why he left it that way and why his body shivered at the mention of The Green Woman. Elias stopped midway to the doors. Tivon wanted to take his words back. He looked at the ground. »N-nevermind, If you don’t wa-«

»You can do my hair.«

Tivon looked up. Elias turned around with a smile.

Rea taught Tivon how to braid hair. She showed him countless different ways to make a braid and then she would always offer her hair for Tivon to practice on. But Rea’s hair was nothing in comparison to Elias’.

If Tivon could touch the clouds, he was sure that they would be as soft as Elias’ black silky hair. Tivon was surprised at how well-maintained it was. It was smooth and untangled, despite the salt and the dampness of the air at sea.

When he finished, he could hear Elias letting out a breath he was holding in the whole time. Tivon could notice while he was making his braid the stiffness of Elias’ body.

Tivon swung the braid over Elias’ left shoulder.

»It’s done.«

Elias went through his braid with a shaky hand. »T-thank you.«

Tivon could notice the distant shaking of his voice. He offered him his hand. »Little steps.«

Elias looked at him and smiled. He took his hand.

»Little steps.«

They both had flaws, they both had scars that needed healing. And even if they didn’t promise it to each other, they knew that they would help each other heal them.

Little by little. Step by step.

They were holding their hands to the door, but as soon as they opened the door and stepped out on the fresh salty air, they let go, not wanting others to see them. There weren’t many people outside, because the weather wasn’t nice. It was cloudy and it would probably rain in the afternoon.

From behind the helm, Nick gave them a friendly nod. Tivon happily waved back at him and Elias gave him a kind smile. They walked to the railing, looking to the open sea. Elias leaned on the railing and took a big breath. Tivon did the same.

Even though the air was moist, the salty smell of fresh air was pleasant to Tivon’s lungs. I could get used to this. He probably already did. The more days he spent on the ship with Elias, the less he thought about the kingdom. He thought less about who he was meant to become and what his bloodline was.

Their quiet meditation was interrupted by a ringing of the ship’s bell, calling all the crew to come on deck. In just a minute everyone was up on deck and before Elias could roll his eyes, Sabur’s cabin door burst open.

He slowly made his way to the middle of the ship, where everyone could hear him. Tivon’s body still shivered after every step he made with his metal leg. For some reason, he still didn’t dare to move, or even breathe around him. Elias tediously leaned his elbows on the railing and rolled his eyes.

In the corner of an eye, Tivon spotted Pit, who just walked out from below the deck. His face was still in bruises, and he was holding the side of his body, breathing unevenly. Elias really didn’t go easy on him.

Tivon noticed a big scar forming over Pit’s closed eye. I didn’t go easy on him either. Pit noticed Tivon’s look on him and for a split moment their eyes met, but Pit quickly looked away.

»In the afternoon we’ll land on Ziddim.« Spoke Sabur with his rusty voice, resounding over the ship. »We’ll have an assembly with our old friends Golden Hinds.«

»Aren’t they no friends to us?« Asked one of the pirates and a agreeing Ay rose amongst the crew.

»That’s why everyone is coming. We meet for the trade, but if they get any ideas we’ll be prepared.« Tivon looked around to everyone nodding.

»Prepare your weapons, but don’t bring too much. We don’t want them to know.« He looked at Elias, who looked unimpressed with every word he had just said. »You’ll be standing beside me, watching every member of Golden Hinds. If there’s anything suspicious, you’ll tell me. And you don’t leave without me saying it.«

Elias just nodded, but Tivon could see the fury in Elias’ eyes.

»And if you dare act on your own.« He looked at Tivon. »There will be consequences.« He turned around and started walking back to his cabin. »Go prepare, you scums!«

He aggressively closed the door behind him as the crew got back to their work.

Tivon looked at Elias. »I figure you have some history with Ziddim.«

Elias was still looking fiercely at the spot Sabur was just standing at. »I don’t have the problem with Ziddim, it’s just the pirate assembly that I despise. They anger me quickly.«

»This time it’ll be different.«

»I really do hope so.« Sighed Elias.

»It will.« Smiled Tivon. »I’ll be there.«

Elias giggled. »Yeah. That will help.«

Tivon has never been to any assembly. Even back at the castle. His father didn’t even integrate him in the kingdom's assemblies and now he was going to a pirate assembly. His heart hasn’t stopped pounding ever since Sabur gave his speech.

Tivon grabbed the edge of the railing harder as the ship landed in the harbour. He had heard of Ziddim before in his study books, but all of them had said that this island was inhabited.

Tivon took in the city. Well, more of a ghost town, painting in front of him. He understood now why the books said so. It was an island for pirate assemblies, of course, a kingdom wouldn’t know about it.

The town was a crannog, because of the depth of the sea by the shore. From the deep sea that seemed to have no end, rose cobblestone pillars holding all the weight of an empty town.

Tivon fixed the belt with his dagger and stepped on the cobblestone pier, Elias right behind him, pulling his mask down. They were the last ones to board off the ship.

Tivon walked slowly. On purpose? He didn’t know. With every step, Tivon’s heartbeat became louder and louder. The ghostly silence of the town didn’t help. Every little breeze startled Tivon. He tried not to show it, but Elias could always notice it.

»Everything okay?« He whispered, even though they were far away from the rest of the crew and there wasn’t anyone else but them around.

»Yeah.« Sighed Tivon. »It’s just the town that gives me the creeps.«

»Not my favourite place either.«

Tivon slowed his already slow pace, his look focused on the ground. »Are there any people living here?«

»Yeah, but there’s really just a few of them. Why?«

Tivon hesitated for a moment and then said. »We’re in Krens.« He looked at Elias. »Even though it’s far away from the kingdom, someone might recognize me.«

Elias put his hand on Tivon’s shoulder. »Don’t worry. The people living here won’t recognise you and the Golden Hinds aren’t from these seas. You’ll be fine.« Tivon knew he smiled, even though his face was covered by the mask. »And with this hairstyle, nobody will know.«

Tivon laughed.

»Elias!« Screamed Sabur.

»Yeah, yeah we’re coming.«

They both quickened their pace.

Elias is right, they won’t know. He looked up from his feet.

They were close to the group of pirates when Tivon saw it, in the corner of his eyes. He stopped and for a moment he could feel his heart stop too, and then quickly started beating uncontrollably. Elias followed Tivon’s gaze and when he saw what Tivon was looking at, he stopped too.

It must have been a Town hall, its walls filled with news and posters. But Tivon caught a poster of a young boy, he knew so well a couple of months ago. It was a poster of a missing boy, and they offered a lot of money for him to return home.

A lot of money. Though he hadn’t seen this boy in months he knew him so well.

The boy on the poster was none other than Prince Tivon.

Chapter Text

Tivon’s vision started to darken. The dark, cold cobblestone ground started spinning under his feet. Elias grabbed him firmly by his shoulders, right in time before Tivon fell.

»T-they know.« Tivon managed. »We’re too close.« He looked at Elias with hysteria in his eyes. »They’re going to know.«

»Shhh Tivon. They’re not going to know.«

»Elias, there are missing posters of me!« Said Tivon trying not to shout.

»It’s just one poster and none of the crew took notice.« Elias tried to talk slowly to calm Tivon down. »Just breathe. Nobody is going to notice. I’ll make sure.«

»Elias!« Sabur raised his voice and fixed his big hat with two feathers. The crew was waiting for them.

Elias looked at Tivon. »We’ll make a quick trade and then we’ll leave. They won’t notice.«

Tivon took a big breath and nodded.

»Elias!« Saburs voice rumbled through the silent town.

»We’re coming!« Shouted Elias.

They caught up with the crew, who was already gathered near a large structure. No, it wasn’t a building; it was an old ship that must have been stranded on this island decades ago. It was made of dark wood, and its sails were a dark grey.

As they were entering the ship, Tivon tried to calm down his breathing. There’s a poster of me. What if someone noticed? As he entered, he quickly took in the inside of the ship. All of the ship's windows were shut and barricaded. The inside was lit by millions of candles. In the middle of the big area was a long table.

On one end were already gathered the crew of Golden Hinds, its captain sitting down at the end of it. The captain must have weighed too much for his short height, his chubby cheeks almost unnoticeable because of his long white beard. His head was covered with a black hat with golden roses. With his black eyes, he peered through Sabur who sat down at the other side of the table. Elias stood beside him, his presence feared by the crew of Golden Hinds.

Why is the kingdom even looking for him? Why is his father looking for him? He glanced at the crew. It seemed to Tivon that they were all staring at him, so he quickly looked away, his heart beating uncontrollably. What if they know? He looked at his crew and he met Pit’s eyes. He was staring at him, confused as to why he was so nervous. What if he knows?

The sudden rusty voice of Sabur awoken Tivon. »Greetings mates.«

»You’re late.« Said the Golden Hinds captain.

Tivon didn’t know that anyone with a voice so deep even existed. His voice was booming around the ship as a drum.

»My friend, I’m sorry.« Said Sabur calmly.

And then there was a long silence. Everyone was just looking at each other, their eyes filled with hatred. Tivon only waited till all of them would draw their weapons. But the captain just started laughing and soon enough everyone was laughing.

»Old friend, it’s nice seeing you again.« Said the captain, waving to one of his comrades. »Let us drink.«

The Golden Hinds crew brought in cups of wine and carried them out to every member of The Rose Sparrow, even Tivon who took the cup carefully, trying to comprehend everything happening around him. He couldn’t stop thinking about the poster.

»Let’s make a toast before we trade.«

Why is my father looking for me?

Leader of Golden Hinds rose his cup. »A toast to our old mates again reunited!«

Tivon was looking at the red liquid in his cup. Why my father?

»A toast to my friend Sabur!«

Tivon’s hands were shaking, making the wine flutter in his cup. Wine? It looked too thick for wine.

»For many more trades in the future!«

Tivon brought the cup to his nose. He could smell the irony-bitter smell. The smell of Visha flowers. The poisonous Visha flowers. The wine was poisoned.

Tivon stirred Elias by the hand. Elias leaned to him and Tivon whispered something in his ear. The room went silent. Elias’ nodded. He looked at the Golden Hinds captain, who was watching them, his expression confused.

Elias turned to Sabur and leaned to his ear.

»Are you sure?« Said Sabur his eyes fixed on the captain.

Elias turned to Tivon, who just nodded seriously. He turned back to Sabur. »Yes.«

Sabur sighed, still holding his cup in his left hand. »My friend, we just want to make some deals.« He dropped the cup, spilling the poisonous liquid on the table, and snapping his fingers. The Rose Sparrow crew drew out their weapons. »But if you want to poison your guests...«

He didn’t need to signal it, because Elias had already taken out his pistol firing it in the Golden Hinds captain’s cup.

»It does not end well.« Finished Sabur.

And then the massacre started. Swords were drawn, pistols blazing, blood spilling everywhere.

Tivon took one look at Elias, who nodded for him to get away from this ship as soon as possible.

Tivon ran outside, but against his luck, the fight had already spread outside. He pulled out his dagger, hoping that he wouldn’t need to use it. He looked around to see if there was anywhere, he could hide. He knew that he should help, that he shouldn’t be a coward and hide, but his mind wasn’t prepared to be brave.

He spotted a narrow street. He glanced over his shoulder to see if someone was following him. Tivon only saw the bloodbath happening behind his back. He didn’t think, he just ran in the street. As soon as he took a turn, he realized it was a dead end. Tivon quickly turned back to the main street only to find out that someone from Golden Hinds had followed him.

»Where are ya runnin’ boy?« He said while he pulled out a knife.

He slowly started approaching him. Tivon gripped his dagger tighter, his body shaking.

»Ya scared?«

As he was approaching him, Tivon tried to avoid him, quickly finding himself against the wall.

»Wait...«

He was face to face with Tivon. I could stab him. Tivon tried to move his hand, but his body wouldn’t listen to him. Why won’t you stab him?

»You’re the lost prince?!« Tivon’s pupils widened. »Oh, that’s interesting. Ya worth a lot of money.« He pulled the knife to his face. »But I may just kill ya-«

Tivon heard a bang and the man fell. Elias was standing behind him, his mask and coat covered in blood.

»T-they know!« Elias ran to him. »They know I’m the prince.«

Elias could see that Tivon was starting to panic. »Nobody of ours knows. Don’t worry. Most of the Golden Hinds crew had already run away. Nobody is going to know.« He tried to keep his voice calm and steady.

»B-but what if somebody notic-«

Elias pulled his mask off and grabbed Tivon. »If they knew they would already do something. And even if they figure out now, I’ll do everything to make sure you’re safe.«

Tivon could only manage a small nod.

Elias smiled. »It’s going to be okay. Be right by my side, Sabur said to meet at the pier when we get most of them.«

Tivon took his hand, and they rushed to the pier. In their distress they didn’t notice Pit hiding at the edge of the house listening to the whole conversation, hearing the secret they’d been hiding for all this time.

Chapter Text

Tivon stayed close to Elias, holding the dagger firmly in his hand, but not doing much with it. With all the stress he already had, with all the blood around him, and the people falling lifelessly in front of his eyes, he couldn’t concentrate. With every fallen pirate, he could see Alieana’s bloodied face in them.

Fortunately, there weren’t many Golden Hinds anymore, so Tivon and Elias could head back to the ship. They could already see most of the crew and Sabur on the cobblestone pier, Pit standing by him, his eyes fixed on Tivon.

Tivon didn’t think about it as much, because Pit was always staring at him, but this time he had this weird grin on him. Tivon leaned against the stone railing, looking down to the sea. The sea was so deep that he couldn’t even see the seabed. He tried to catch a breath and calm his pounding heart.

»Was the wine really poisoned?« Asked Sabur.

»Yes.« Tivon sighed. »It was poisoned with Visha flowers.« Said Tivon with a shaky voice.

»This whole assembly was a waste of time.« Protested Elias as he crossed his arms. »And men.«

Sabur turned away and said. »And there’s going to be two more.«

Two people grabbed Tivon and another two grabbed Elias.

»What is happening?! Sabur, what the hell?!« Screamed Elias, he looked at Tivon, who was as shocked as him, unable to speak.

»You have been holding your tongue behind your teeth for far too long.« Sabur looked at everyone. »Why won’t you tell the others, the little secret you’ve been hiding.«

Elias peered through Sabur with eyes burning with fury.

»There are no secrets, Sabur. Release me and Tivon in this fucking moment!«

Sabur turned to him and slowly approached him. He pulled out a silver bracelet from behind Elias’ shirt. »Where did you get this then?«

Elias didn’t look away when he said. »I found it.« He said it with such confidence that even Tivon believed him.

Sabur only smiled and tilted his head. The men who held Tivon punched him in the stomach and the other tied him up with rope.

»Tivon!« Screamed Elias. He tried to free himself from the two men holding him, but no luck.

»Tell us and we won’t throw him off into the sea.« Said Sabur calmly, his voice echoing through the cobblestone.

They attached a big, heavy rock to Tivon.

»Fucking release him Sabur!« His panicked eyes met Tivon’s.

Sabur’s voice was calm. »Tell us and I might consider it.«

Tivon nodded off to Elias not to tell them. Elias closed his mouth, looking away from Tivon.

»Fine.« Said Sabur.

The two men threw Tivon over the edge. Tivon didn’t even have time to scream. The fall was big, and it seemed to Tivon as if he had been falling for hours. Eventually, he hit the water with his back, immediately knocking him out of consciousness, the deep sea swallowing him down into the darkness.

»Tivon! Tivon!« Cried Elias hysterically. He tried to free himself from the men holding them. He could feel warm tears falling down his cheeks. »For fuck sake Sabur, he’s going to drown!«

Sabur looked at him unimpressed.

If Elias were alone, he wouldn’t tell. He was good at being silent. He never would give in, but this time he couldn’t. It was Tivon’s life on the line. Elias gave in.

»Okay, okay. He’s the prince of The Kingdom of Naydawin!« He moved, trying to free himself from the grip. »Now fucking release me!«

Sabur nodded to the guys. As soon as they loosened the pressure Elias grabbed a rope by the edge and jumped down into the deep sea.

He could see Tivon slowly drowning deeper and deeper. He swam to him and cut off the rope. As soon as he grabbed Tivon’s waist the crew started pulling them out. He gripped the rope and Tivon tightly.

When they pulled him out of the water, he looked at Tivon. »Tivon?« His chest wasn’t moving and his heart wasn’t pounding. »Tivon, wake up.«

When they pulled them on the pier, Elias laid Tivon on the cold cobblestone ground and started pushing his chest, trying to make his heartbeat again.

»Wake up Tivon!« He was pushing his chest with as much force as he could. »Tivon!«

He suddenly opened his eyes, spitting out water. Before Elias could release a relieved breath the men grabbed him and Tivon, who was still gasping for air.

»Hey. Hey!« Shouted Elias.

Sabur turned to Elias. »You did well Elias.« Tivon looked at Elias confused. »You did well, bringing the prince to me.«

»What?!« Elias couldn’t believe Sabur’s words.

Tivon looked at Elias, in disbelief. »Elias?«

»N-no. Tivon is not what you think.«

Sabur put his hand on Tivon’s shoulder. »Quite a liar, isn’t he?«

Elias tried to free himself. »Tivon, don’t listen to him. He’s lying, I have nothing to do with this.«

A sudden punch from Sabur knocked out Elias.

»Elias!« Yelled Tivon, his lungs still burning from the water.

»Put them in separate cells.« Said Sabur walking towards the board leaned against the ship.

The men holding Tivon followed Sabur up the ship.

»W-wait. No.« Tivon looked over his shoulder to unconscious Elias. »Elias!« His lungs burned so much, but he still screamed for him. »Elias!«

The man holding him pushed his head forward. »Shut up shary!«

They carried him below deck and before entering, Tivon glanced back to see that they took Elias to the other side of the ship.

Tivon stopped walking. »Where are you taking him?«

»None of ya business.« They pushed him through the door.

They put Tivon in the cell that he was already familiar with. It was the same cell from when he first crossed paths with The Rose Sparrow. They shoved him in so that Tivon fell to the ground and locked him in. His back was already hurting from the impact of the fall into the water and his lungs were still burning.

This isn’t happening. He sat up and leaned against the wall. This couldn’t be it. Sabur must be lying. Elias would never... He clutched his knees to his chest and put his head in between. Had Elias been lying all this time? His wet body started to shiver. All this time with him...

Someone opened the trapdoor and Tivon put his head up from his knees. Nick quietly came down the stairs and put Tivon’s bag by the cell door.

»For if you need the medicine.« He said with a calm voice, avoiding Tivon’s questioning eyes. He turned to leave.

»What will you do with me?«

Nick stopped, hesitating to answer. »I don’t know.«

»You’re the helmsman. You know where we’re going.«

Nick was surprised to hear the roughness in Tivon’s voice. »Sabur hasn’t given the orders yet.«

»What will happen to Elias?«

»Why do you care? He lied to you.« Said Nick this time looking Tivon directly in his eyes.

Tivon said nothing. Why do I care?

Nick sighed and went up the stairs. »Just try not to get in more trouble.«

And he left. He left Tivon by himself with just his thoughts. The thoughts that were slowly starting to eat him alive.

Elias woke up on the ground of the cell. He leaned on his hands and tried to sit up.

»Tivon...« He said before looking around.

»He’s not here.« Said a raspy voice from the shadows.

In a second all of the anger trapped inside Elias came up and he lunged at the cell bars.

»Where the fuck is he?!«

Sabur moved from the shadows into the low light.

»Not your business. I’ll take care of him.«

Elias stretched his arms, grabbed Sabur by the collar and pulled him to his face.

»It is my fucking business and you’re going to tell me.«

His blue eyes glow in the darkness of the cell.

»If you’d told me earlier that a prince of Naydawin was on my ship, we wouldn’t be where we are now.«

Elias gripped harder. »What will you do with him?«

Sabur grabbed Elias’ hands. »Release me and I will tell.«

Elias thought for a bit and then he slowly released him.

»Atta boy.« He stepped back. »Tivon will be reunited with his parents.«

»What?!«

»And the people love an interesting story. Nobody wants a runaway future king, but what if he was kidnapped?«

Elias was trying to connect the dots, his look baffled.

»They will love the story of The Masked man, The Grímur kidnapping a young prince, soon to be king.«

»N-no...«

Sabur stepped to the door. »And shary will believe it too.«

»No!« He ran towards Sabur, but this time he was too far. »You fucking coward Sabur. Let me out in this fucking moment!«

Sabur only smiled. It was a vicious, evil smile. »You’ll be out of this cell soon enough Elias.« He opened the door and went outside, hearing Elias scream when he closed the door. »Soon enough Elias.«

Chapter Text

Tivon sat in the same spot, not moving since Nick left. He was parted. He didn’t know whether he should trust Elias or not. The doubt was killing him.

He suddenly heard the crashing of the waves at the ship, but it was not The Rose Sparrow. He jumped to his feet and stepped on his toes to see from the window. There was another ship sailing right beside theirs. The Young Marry.

Tivon recognized the painted ship. It was the Naydawin’s royal army ship. Someone opened the trapped door and when Tivon turned around, he saw a familiar face.

»General Ivan?«

Right before him was standing the general of the royal army. His blond hair had grown longer since Tivon last saw him. It was tied in a low ponytail. He was wearing a purple uniform with orange embroidered lilies on its sleeves. He wore a silver lily pin above his heart.

Tivon had only good memories of Ivan. When his father gave up on his training, Ivan would never lose faith in him. His hazel eyes widened when he saw Tivon.

Ivan smiled. »Tivon!« He unlocked the cell and ran towards him, hugging him tight. »We’ve been searching for you for months.«

»You’ve been searching for me?« Tivon remembered the posters, but he still couldn’t understand why. Why were they searching for him?

»Come on, let’s get you on the ship and get you some dry clothes.«

He took Tivon’s bag, grabbed his hand and they walked outside.

»Ivan. Why is my father looking for me?«

»What do you mean? You’re the future king and his son. Of course, he’s sick and worried about you.«

They came on deck, where the rest of the royal army was standing in a steady line. Tivon stopped and slipped his hand out of Ivan’s grip.

»No, my father would never.«

»What are you talking about Tivon?«

Before Tivon could answer, four men of the royal army brought out Elias, who tried to free himself from their grip, not noticing Tivon. Tivon gasped, but that was all he managed to do. Ivan straightened his posture.

»So this is the man?«

»Yes.«

Tivon didn’t even realize that Sabur was standing in the shadow of the mast.

»Tivon!« Shouted Elias.

Tivon tried to run to him, but Ivan stopped him, holding him firmly by the arm.

He reached into his inner coat pocket, pulled out a big sack of money and threw it to Sabur.

»W-what’s the meaning of this?« Asked Tivon.

»Their reward for finding you. There were rumours that The Masked man kidnapped you.«

»That is a lie!« screamed Elias, his eyes fixed on Ivan.

Ivan looked at him and said with spite in his voice. »Did I ask you something?«

»No, Ivan, he’s right. He didn’t kidnap me.” Tivon interrupted. “I ran away.«

»Tivon, you’re talking nonsense.« sighed Ivan.

»It’s the truth.«

Ivan looked around at the pirates gathered around. »They probably had you down there for too long. They’ve probably manipulated you into thinking otherwise.«

Tivon couldn’t believe it. »N-no. I ran away.« He pointed at Elias. »He had nothing to do with it.«

Ivan looked at him, his eyes almost empathetic. He closed his eyes and sighed. »I’m sorry Tivon.«

A member of the royal army put a cloth over Tivon’s mouth, causing him to fall unconscious.

»Tivon!« Screamed Elias. »You fucking pieces of shit!«

He shook off the men holding him, running towards Tivon. In a second Ivan pulled out his pistol and pointed it at Elias’ chest. He cocked the pistol.

»One more step pirate and I’ll blow you to bits.« He said his hazel eyes staring coldly at him.

»Is that all you know how to do, general?«

»You’re the one to talk fernty.«

They stared at each other, one’s eyes more furious than others, before the men took hold of Elias.

Ivan put his pistol down and ordered. »Take this man to the secured cells.«

They took him off the ship, Elias still trying to free himself, glancing over his shoulder towards Tivon. One man also carefully picked up Tivon and took him off the ship.

Ivan took one last look at Sabur and spoke. »Only this time captain. The king might trust you, but I don’t. I won’t forget the past.«

Sabur tilted his hat, the green and purple feathers fluttering in the wind. »Of course, general.«

Ivan nodded and left the ship. The Young Marry set sail in the opposite direction as The Rose Sparrow.

Tivon saw her face again. Blood pouring out of her mouth, dripping on him. He woke up, finding himself on a familiar soft bed in his bedroom. No.

He launched himself on his feet. I shouldn’t be here. He ran out of the room straight to the king's main room. His mind was screaming.

No, no, no, no.

He slammed the door open and walked to his startled father.

»Where is he?«

»Is that how you greet your father after months of not seeing him?«

He raised his voice. »Where is he?!«

»You don’t raise your voice at me!« He walked to him. »Do you have any idea how much shame you have brought me? To let yourself get kidnapped?«

»He didn’t kidnap me.« Said Tivon sharply.

»Oh, of course. Go on, lie to me.«

»Me lying? Then you can tell me why the fuck are you working with The Rose Sparrows?!«

Tivon couldn’t even see it when his father raised his hand and slapped him in the face. »You dare talk to your king like that?!«

Tivon grabbed his burning cheek in disbelief.

»Guards!« Urien shouted.

Two guards ran in and grabbed Tivon.

»Where is he?!« Shouted Tivon while trying to free himself.

»Take him at the top of the tower.«

»Where is he?!« Yelled Tivon as the door closed.

As the guards carried him to the top of the tower Tivon yelled at them to let him go, but they didn’t pay him any mind. They shoved him into the room and before Tivon could run to the door they locked it.

Tivon banged on the door. »Let me out!« He heard them leave, walking down the stairs. »Let me out, it’s an order!«

It’s useless, I’m not getting out of here anytime soon.

He looked around the room. It was empty, only a window that was locked. He started to panic. They’ll hurt him.

No, they won’t hurt him. They’ll kill him. He heard a thunder break, and the rain started to pour down from the sky. I need to get out of here.

Elias woke up, his head hurting. When they were taking him off the ship, they knocked him out otherwise he would run away or kill them.

He would kill them.

He looked up to see his hands chained up to the wall. He must have been here for some hours because he barely felt his hands. The room was dark. The only source of light was coming from a small hole in the door.

He moved his hands to see if he could move around. The metal chains around him were tight and they weren’t long enough for him to move to the door. They were so tight around the wrist that he could feel his skin tear apart with a slightest move.

He heard a key opening the door. The light coming from the door blinded him, so he had to look away. When the person who entered closed the door, Elias looked.

Before him was a man with a podgy face. He was holding a lantern lighting up his light brown hair, his roots already grey. He looked down on Elias with his green eyes. He figured that he must be Tivon’s father, despite there being almost no resemblance. In the other hand, he was carrying Elias’ mask.

»The Masked man...« Said Urien while putting down the lantern.

»Glad to see that Tivon didn’t take his looks from you.« Smiled Elias.

Urien only smirked at him. »I see that your presence influenced Tivon too much.«

»Glad to be at your service, Your Highness.«

Urien dropped the mask on the floor and grabbed his jaw. »Not the time to be talking to me like that. You see, I’ve come up with this pretty story that you kidnap my useless son. Didn’t expect that it would work so well. I have The Grímur in my possession and my son is home.«

Elias spat on him. »He is no son to you.« Urien stepped back and wiped away his spat. Elias’ eyes were flaming. » You're just an egoistic fuck who can’t even be a decent king, let alone a decent father.«

Urien grabbed him by the shirt. »What did you say?«

Elias grinned. »You are no father to Tivon. You’re just a useless fuck.«

Suddenly Urien pulled out a knife and stabbed Elias below his right ribs. Elias’ pupils widened, his whole body tightening.

Urien leaned to his ear and whispered. »I am the king of Naydawin and mere fernty won’t talk about me this way.«

He pulled out the knife, letting the blood spill out of the wound. Urien turned to the door and opened it. »Can’t wait to see Tivon’s face when he finds out that he was the reason you’re going to die tonight.«

Elias looked at him furiously, hiding the pain of the stab in his hateful look.

»Have fun dying, pirate. Alone in a cold, dark cell.« He smiled at him. »Just where you belong.« He closed the door behind and locked it.

Elias let out a breath, that he has been holding in this whole time. When he did, the pain got worse, spreading through his body like electricity. He started shaking, his breathing getting uneven, his vision darkening. Elias tried not to move.

He’s right. I guess this is how it was meant to be.

He laughed at himself. Bold of me to think I would die a natural, normal death. His eyes were starting to close.

Quiet a calm death for such a sinner. He closed his eyes and let his head tilt forward.

Chapter Text

Tivon closed his eyes. Calm down Tivon. Breathe. Just breathe. He took a deep breath. Calm yourself and think. He managed to calm his breathing, but his body was still shivering. He opened his eyes and looked around the room. What would Elias do?

He laughed at himself. Who am I kidding? I’m not him.

The door behind Tivon unlocked and when Tivon turned around, it opened, and his mother ran to him.

»Mom?«

She hugged him tight. »Oh, Tivon.«

Tivon smiled. He was in the comfort of her mother’s arms once again. But something didn’t feel right.

Gyla gave him his bag with his medicine and his journal. She cupped Tivon’s face with her gentle hands, her right hand going through Tivon’s scar. »Oh, Tivon what did they do to you?«

Tivon was shocked to see her mother hiding her disgust. He slipped out of her hands and stepped backwards.

»They didn’t do anything to me. I cut the hair myself.«

»Why would you do that Tivon? Your father won’t like it.« She said her voice gentle.

Tivon looked at her angrily. »I could care less about what he thinks.«

She tried to get closer to him. »Tivon. How could you talk about your fath-«

»Why do you let him manipulate you!?« Interrupted Tivon.

Gyla stopped. »W-what?«

»You do everything he says. Tell me, mother, when was the last time you did something you wanted to do, but he said that you shouldn’t? Tell me, when?«

Tivon wasn’t sure what he was saying, but he knew that it was the truth. He could see it every time his mother was around the king. She was living in his shadow.

»Tivon...«

»He probably never told you that I ran away on my own. Did he?« Gyla gasped. »That’s right. I ran away. But he told you about the alliance with The Rose Sparrow, didn’t he?«

»Tivon I-«

»Did you know?!« Screamed Tivon, feeling hot tears running down his cheeks.

Gyla closed her eyes and sighed. »I knew. I knew for years.«

That was all Tivon needed. He turned away.

»Leave...«

She stepped forward, reaching her hands for her dear son she just betrayed. »Tivon.«

»Leave!« Screamed Tivon.

Gyla stopped, tears falling down her cheeks. She turned away and left the room running, locking the doors behind her.

Tivon dropped his bag, trying to wipe away his tears, but they just kept coming out. His mother, his only comfort in this family, his home, had betrayed him. Everyone around Tivon had betrayed him.

No.

The tears stopped. He did not betray me. I need to find him. He ran to the window and looked at the lock. He reached for his bag, glad to feel the familiar two metal picks and his dagger. He pulled them out and started lockpicking.

He was relieved at how quickly the lock gave loose. He opened the door, letting in the rain. He stepped on the window still.

The thunderstorm in the night was raging hard on the quiet kingdom. Tivon carefully looked down. He had to grip the edges of the window when he saw the long fall.

He closed his eyes. It’s okay, it’s okay. He opened his eyes and looked around. On the left there was a roof, leading to a window where Tivon knew the guards wouldn’t be standing. He just had to jump.

He closed his eyes, breathed in and then he jumped.

Elias saw Tivon.

He saw his unconscious body disappearing into the deep sea. He tried to swim to him, but the more he swam, the further away Tivon was.

Elias’ whole body was in pain, but he kept reaching for Tivon. If it were the last thing, Elias did in this world, he would save Tivon. He didn’t know for how long he could hold his breath, but he was determined that he would safe Tivon.

And for a moment he imagined he heard him say his name.

Tivon ran without thinking about the jump he just made. He just barely made it, almost slipping off, because of the rain. He ran through underground tunnels, only known to him and Rea. He knew the complex structure of them by heart. Tivon was headed towards the jail cells.

He came out through the narrow crack in the wall hidden behind a pile of barrels. He exited it and entered a hallway. He carefully looked to see how many guards, he would have to deal with.

There were two standing by a door. Why only two? He was certain that Elias was behind that door but why were there only two guards? This doesn’t mean anything good.

Tivon ran towards them eyes full of panic.

»Guards!« He screamed. »They’re here!«

The guards recognized him. »Sir? What are you doing here?«

»Aren’t you with your father?« Said the other one.

»He sent me to tell you to immediately go to the harbour. We’ve been attacked by pirates.«

»What?!«

»You need to hurry!« Said Tivon, his panicked eyes looking from one guard to the other.

»Y-yeah.« Said the guard already running down the hall. The other one looked at Tivon.

»Stay here prince. Down here is safer.«

He tried to leave, but Tivon stopped him, by grabbing the end of his coat. »Thank you. I will tell my father about your quick response.«

He smiled. »Thank you, my prince.«

And he ran towards the harbour. Tivon smiled and looked at the key, he slipped out of the guard’s pocket. When he couldn’t hear their footsteps, he turned to the door and unlocked them.

He was relieved to see Elias, but his eyes quickly saw the blood at his side and down on the floor.

»Elias.«

He ran to him and unlocked the chains around his wrist, Elias fell into his arms.

»Elias?«

Please tell me I’m not too late. Please. He put his hand on Elias’ face. It was still warm. »Elias!«

Say something. Please, please, please.

Elias moved his face slightly. »T-Tivon?« He managed with a weak voice.

That was enough for Tivon. He grabbed Elias’ mask and put it in his bag. He put Elias’ arm around his shoulder. »Let’s get you out of here.«

He ran outside to the hallway, glad that Elias had enough energy that he could somehow stand on his feet. Tivon didn’t bother locking the door behind him. If they found out Tivon was missing, they would soon enough find out that Elias was missing too. He helped Elias get through the small crack and then again put his hand over him.

Tivon quickened his step, but still made sure Elias could keep up with him.

»W-what is this place?«

»Ancient underground tunnels. Try not to talk too much.«

»Where a-are we going?« His voice was getting weaker and weaker.

»Somewhere where they won’t find us.«

He made a turn left and then a right turn, followed by a left turn. Even if Elias wasn’t losing his consciousness every minute, he couldn’t memorize the turns they had made.

They went up the stairs and they found themselves in a narrow hallway. But it wasn’t a hallway. It was the inside of the castle wall. Right beside the stairs, there was a crack in the wall. Elias could feel the little breeze coming from it. They squeezed through into the rainy night.

There was a dense forest right beside it, and before anyone could see them from the castle walls, they ran into it.

They ran deeper into the forest, Tivon looking at Elias to see if he needed to stop. They quickly reached a big rock, covered in moss. Tivon led them around it where Elias could barely see an entering. Tivon helped him get in, revealing a small cave.

Tivon sat Elias down and turned to the middle of the cave, where there was a fireplace. He managed to make a small fire. Elias wanted to warn him not to do that in the cave, but he quickly saw a little opening in the ceiling of the cave.

Suddenly he felt a sudden pain in his side. Tivon heard the cry, even though Elias tried to hide it. He ran to the other side of the cave, grabbing a clean cloth, a needle and a thread. He put the needle on the fire, sterilizing it. He turned to Elias and pulled up his shirt carefully. He cleaned the wound and put the thread in the needle.

»This will hurt.«

He started sewing Elias up. Elias looked down. He was trying to hide his pain, but with every poke, his body shivered.

»Try to stay still.«

His hands are shaking. He moved his hand to his and brushed his fingers against his.

»P-please stay still.« Tivon’s voice was shaking, the words stuck in his throat. Elias looked up at his face. He noticed a red mark from what Elias figured out was from a hard hit.

»He hurt you...« He brushed his fingers over the redness of his cheek. »Because of me.«

»It's not because of you.« Said Tivon sharply, avoiding his eyes, focusing on the wound.

»I've put you in danger. We've both got captured because of me.«

The poke of the needle going through his skin stung him like hell. He could still feel the twisting knife in his side.

»Stop moving!« Tivon tried to steady his hands. He took a breath. »It's a good thing that father doesn't know anatomy. He just barely missed your vitals.«

Elias looked around the cave. This couldn't be just a random normal cave. There were some blankets, a basket of some sort of things Elias couldn't see, and the walls of the cave were painted with little drawings.

»What is this p-place?« Asked Elias.

»Rea’s and my hideout. I wasn't allowed to go outside the castle, so Rea and I found out about the secret tunnels and then this cave by accident.« Tivon smiled, finishing the final stitch. »This was our little secret that no one knew about. It is a secret still to this day.«

Elias smiled. To have a childhood like that. It reminded him of him first finding the lagoon back at Dalerly.

Tivon put the clean cloth on the stitched wound. »You should rest. I'll get back to the castle to get some supplies.«

He tried to stand up, but Elias grabbed his hand.

»N-no please don't.« He tried to find the right words. The words he was so afraid to say out loud. »I don't want to be alone. I don't want to d-die alone.«

Even though Elias looked like all his strength was leaving him, his grip was tight.

»If I don't get the medicine and food, you will die.«

»Tivon, please. Stay...« He gripped tighter and looked down. His voice was weak. »Promise me you'll stay.«

Tivon could feel him shaking. Elias was scared. He held his hand and sat beside him, close, so that he could warm him with his body.

»Okay.« He whispered. »I promise.«

»T-thank you.« Managed Elias before he drew off to sleep.

Tivon knew if he stayed Elias might not make it through the night. But he couldn't leave him. He couldn't leave him alone. It pained him, but he stayed.

Chapter Text

Tivon was awakened by a subtle cracking of the fire, which was already dying out. He didn’t know when he had fallen asleep. He knew that he shouldn’t, he needed to look after Elias.

Tivon turned to him. He was still sleeping, but Tivon could already see the consequences of him not getting back to the castle for necessities. Elias was breathing unevenly, his sleeping troubled and cold sweat running over his face, down his neck.

Tivon carefully removed the cloth to see his wound. The stitches were still attached, and it did stop the bleeding, but Elias would still need medicine. He put the cloth back on.

Tivon clenched his fists. I promised him. He put his head between his knees in frustration. Elias’ uneven breathing was driving him insane. Not because it was annoying, but because Tivon knew that he could help. I promised you. He lifted his head. I can’t keep this promise. I’m sorry but not now.

He stood up and took his bag. He grabbed a blanket that was too small for Elias, but it’ll do for now. He carefully put it over Elias, trying not to wake him up. He put some logs on the fire and left the cave.

He quickly made his way through the forest and ran straight through the crack in the wall. Tivon ran through tunnels until he came out through a hidden trapdoor in a garden behind a castle's kitchen. It was before dawn, so the garden and the kitchen were empty, rain slowly fading down.

He made his way to the storage room, where he also had stashed his herbs, leaves and flowers. He grabbed as much food as he could. Dried fruit, dried meat, fresh fruit, bread, fresh water, anything that he could fit in the bag. He grabbed bandages, a bottle of a dark brown liquid and two bottles of flowers, one with black petals leaves and one with big yellow leaves.

»Tivon?«

Tivon turned around, startled, and grabbed the side of the cupboard. Standing in the doorway was Rea. Her long golden hair flowed freely over her left shoulder, and she wore a blue nightgown, wrapped in a large white blanket. Her green eyes sparkled in the darkness.

She ran to him and hugged him. »Oh, you’re alive!«

»You’re still at the castle?« Asked Tivon.

She looked at him with worried eyes. »I told my mother I’ll stay till they find you. When did you get back to the kingdom?« She said a little too loudly.

»Shhhh. Stay quiet.« He looked at her confused. »They didn’t tell you I got back?«

»No?« Rea held his hands. »Oh, what horrible things must have they done to you.«

»What? No. They haven’t done anything to me. Well, most of them. I ran away.«

Rea’s look was puzzled. »Then what about that fernty-«

»Elias!« Interrupted Tivon. He lowered his voice. »His name is Elias. And he...« Tivon looked away. »He helped me.«

Rea was looking at him hungry for answers and Tivon looked back at her. »And now he needs my help. My father wounded him.«

»Wait, you escaped with him? Where did you go?« Asked Rea.

Tivon grabbed her warm, gentle hands. »Rea you need to trust me.« His eyes were begging for her to understand. »Please let me trust at least one person here.«

Rea smiled kindly and nodded. She removed the blanket she had over her shoulders, folded it and gave it to Tivon. »Take this.«

Tivon took it, she hugged him and whispered. »You have my word.«

Tivon hugged her back. »Thank you.«

She let him go and Tivon went his way, stopping by the door frame and turning to her. She waved at him, and he smiled. He ran through the garden and quickly made his way back to Elias.

When he came, he dropped his bag on the ground, waking up Elias. He looked around to see why Tivon was in such a hurry. He saw the bag and a blanket on the ground.

»W-where were you?« He was surprised to hear his own voice so weak.

Tivon didn’t answer, he just grabbed the bottle with a dark liquid and black flowers. He came to Elias and uncovered his wound. He put the liquid in a bowl, crushed black flowers, mixed it with the liquid and put it directly over Elias’ wound. It stung and Elias let out a weak, quiet scream. The pain quickly went away, and Tivon gently put more on.

»Y-you said you promised.« Said Elias finally.

»You would’ve died.« Tivon said sharply, focusing on the wound, and putting on bandages.

»You should let me-«

»I would never let you die.« He interrupted.

Elias tried to move. »Tivon-«

Tivon grasped the side of his head, pulling him closer, pressing his lips against his. Rough at first, but slowly he let his lips relax on Elias’. His hand slipped on his neck, and he slowly eased off, his forehead still against his.

»Don’t say that.« He whispered with a sadness in his voice. “Please.”

He looked back down at the wound, tying the bandages around his waist.

Elias sighed and leaned his head on the wall. »I don’t deserve you.«

Tivon smiled. »Yeah, you don’t.«

I don’t deserve you either.

Tivon stood up to grab the bag and a blanket. He offered him a piece of bread and some dried fruit. »Now eat.«

»I’m not hungry.« He sighed. »I’m just t-tired.« Said Elias, but still taking the food Tivon had offered.

Tivon covered him with the white blanket Rea gave him. »You need to eat first.«

He took a bite of the bread. »You need to e-eat too.«

Tivon turned to the fire and put one more log. »I will.«

He was careful to not make the fire too big or too strong, for it might give them away. He took a little steel pot, filled it with water and put it by the fire. Tivon sat down and ate some fruits while waiting for the water to heat up. It was still cold despite the fire. Elias noticed Tivon’s little shivers he tried to hide.

»Tivon.« He looked at him. Elias moved the blanket and patted the ground beside him. »You’re cold.«

Tivon looked back at the fire. »I’m fine.«

Elias started moving, trying to get to Tivon.

»Hey, no, no. Don’t move.«

Elias stopped and smiled weakly. »Then come here.«

Tivon sighed. »Okay. Just wait a bit for the water to heat up.«

Elias carefully leaned back on the wall and closed his eyes, still smiling.

When the water boiled, Tivon carefully put it off the fire, put in the yellow flowers and mixed it. He gave it to Elias and then sat beside him, where Elias made space. Elias covered him with the blanket.

Warm. Tivon snuggled closer to him, leaning his head on his chest. Even though Elias’ body was still rather cold, he felt warm. Warm and comfortable. He closed his weary eyes, but he quickly opened them. I shouldn’t sleep. He straightened his posture, forcing himself to stay awake.

»You can sleep.« Said Elias quietly and took a sip of the tea.

»I can’t. I need to look after you.«

»I’m fine n-now. I won’t die.« He said with a little laugh.

»You better not.«

Elias took another sip and took Tivon’s hand, tangling his fingers with his. »Talk to me.«

»About what?«

»This cave, the drawings on the wall, anything. I don’t want to fall asleep.«

Tivon leaned his head back.

»So, I found this cave when Rea and I were seven years old. We were running around the woods and Rea sprained her ankle. It started raining and we were looking for a shelter and found this cave. We quickly claimed it as our own and every time Rea visited our kingdom, we would spend time here. We would draw on the wall, bring flowers make flower crowns and make simple fires.«

As he was talking, he was pointing around the cave. To the fireplace, to the little drawings and to the dried flower crowns hanging by the entrance of the shelter. Elias was patiently sipping on the tea, listening to his soft voice.

After some time, Tivon’s voice began to fade. His eyes were closing, and his head was dozing off. At last, his face leaned on Elias, his eyes shut, his breathing calm and steady.

Elias hugged him closer, still holding his hand tight. He quietly and softly kissed him on the forehead and leaned his head on his. He closed his eyes and fell asleep at the sound of the fire.

Four days have passed since then. Tivon took care of the fire, Elias’ wound and the food, because Elias’ wound was still healing and even if it were already healed Tivon wouldn’t allow Elias to move. Tivon knew that they shouldn’t stay here for too long. If they did, the royal army would find them eventually. But till Elias was good enough to move, they would stay.

Tivon was drawing the subtle fire in his journal.

»What’s that book you carry everywhere?« Asked Elias.

»This?« He came to Elias and showed him. »This is my journal.«

Elias flipped through it, admiring every drawing in it. »You should be our mapmaker, not that scumbag of a human, Pit.«

Tivon had to laugh, but the smile quickly faded away when they heard murmurs outside the cave. They quickly went to their feet, Elias a little slower than Tivon and they waited for the person to find them.

Chapter Text

They were both at their feet, Elias holding his side and Tivon ready to grab the dagger if he needed to.

Tivon let out a relieved breath when Rea entered the cave. She was wearing a simple magenta dress, her shoulders covered with a red coat. Her hair was braided in a long braid. She smiled and ran into Tivon, hugging him and then to his surprise kissing him. Tivon froze and if Elias wasn't wounded, he would probably kill Rea on the spot.

Rea leaned back and smiled, her hands still holding Tivon. »I knew I would find you here.«

Tivon was still shocked and for some reason a little embarrassed. »Nobody followed y-«

»Nobody knows.« She smiled. »I've told them I was going for a walk.« She tightened her grip on Tivon, her look suddenly serious. »But they knew you are gone, they are looking for you.« She wanted to reach for her bag over her shoulders. »I brought you some things-«

She suddenly noticed a tall posture, leaning over Tivon, angry eyes stabbing through her. »Oh, hi, I'm Rea.«

To Elias’ surprise, she smiled.

»I know.« Said Elias angrily, he grabbed Tivon gently by the hand pulling him away. »Can we trust her?« He whispered.

Tivon looked him in the eyes. »She is the only one that I trust.« Then he smiled and giggled. »Beside you«

Elias smiled, but in the moment, he looked back at Rea his look became serious again.

»Elias you shouldn't be standing.« Said Tivon.

»I'm okay.« He lied. His side hurt like hell, but he didn't want to show it.

Rea offered her bag, filled with food. »Here you go. It's all I could bring for now. I will try to bring more next time.«

Tivon took the bag and smiled. »Thank you.«

»I should go now. Before they think I'm suspicious or something.«

She smiled and waved and before Tivon could say bye, she was gone.

»It’s a good thing she came. Our food supplies were running low.« He started turning around. »Why were you so rough with h-«

Elias took his chin, turned his face to him and kissed him. He eased off slowly.

Tivon’s confused expression quickly turned into a smirk. »You're jealous.«

Elias turned and sat down, pain rushing through his body. »I'm not.«

Tivon laughed. »Yeah, you are.«

Elias frowned and looked away. Tivon sat beside him. »Don't worry, I am yours.« He said quietly and slowly.

Elias’ face blushed, embarrassment quickly taking over.

»I'm sorry.« He said quietly. »I react too quickly.«

Tivon moved closer, brushing his arm against his. »It's okay. Besides, I don't think of her as nothing more than a friend.« He sighed and leaned his head on the wall. »I never thought about marrying her and when father first told me that I needed to marry her, I couldn't think about it. She's my friend. I could never.«

»Pretty shity of a father to force their own child to marry someone.«

»I should've seen it coming.« He looked down. »I'm sure she thinks the same.«

Rea was going through the forest, trying not to go by the same path, for someone might follow her. Her heart was pounding fast. Why was he staring at me like that? Did I do something wrong? It was like he was protecting him from me.

She shook her head, trying to clear her head and continued her way. She entered the castle walls at the main entrance where she left. Rea passed the guard, relieved that he wasn't suspicious of her.

»Hey!« He suddenly shouted behind her.

She turned around thinking that she was done for. He ran to her.

»I'm sorry princess for disturbing your morning walk, but the king would like to speak to you.« He said while bowing to her.

»Oh, okay. Thank you.«

She respectfully bowed back and turned to continue her way. That doesn't mean anything good. She quickened her pace, walking towards the king's main room. If he needs me then let's deal with this now.

She opened the door and found the king sitting by the table enjoying his breakfast.

»Rea, come here.« He said a little too cheerfully for Rea’s liking. »Take a seat.«

She came closer and sat down on the chair before the table.

»You needed me, your highness?«

»No need for formality. You can call me by my name.«

»My apologies, Urien.« She said, his name stuck in her throat.

He took a sip of his coffee and put down the cup. »You may have heard about Tivon's return.«

Rea looked surprised. »You found him?«

»The royal army found him. They also seized the one who kidnapped him.«

»Oh, that's great to hear.«

Urien stood up and walked towards her. »The problem is that they've run away.« He looked down on her, his look dead serious. »You wouldn't know by any chance where they had gone?«

»No.« She lied. »How would I know that? I didn't even know that Tivon came back, let alone know where he would run away to.« She cleared her throat, pretending that she was about to cry. »I can't even understand why he would run away.«

»I am asking myself the same question.« Said the king moving his way to the window. »Tomorrow I'll close the castle walls. I will find him and that fernty. If I'll have to search the whole kingdom to find the fernty and that crippled, I'll do it.«

»Pardon?«

The king looked at her, confusion spreading over his face.

»I'm sorry Urien, but I might have heard you wrong. Did you say crippled?«

»Oh, sorry. You really must've heard me wrong. I said, child.« He sighed. »I just want my son back.«

»Of course.« Rea just wanted to go away from this weird man. »If I get any word of your son, I'll let you know immediately.«

»Thank you, Rea.« He waved at the door. »You may go now.«

Rea quickly stood up and exited the room. I can't stay here anymore. They would eventually find out she had to do something with them. I need to go.

Rea gathered as much food as she could into a big bag, hiding it outside the castle walls in a willow tree. She told the king that she'll go riding and hunting in the evening. She was relieved that he allowed her to, but he warned her to be back by sunset when he would close off the castle walls.

She put on her hunting gear, her brown pants with a simple white tunic, and her necklace over it. She put on a red coat. Rea put her golden hair into a high ponytail, the right side let loose, with a little braid at the left side. She put on her high boots and headed to the armoury room where she took her trusty bow and an arrow quiver, putting it over her shoulders.

She spotted swords and a pistol lying on the table in the room. This must have been Elias’. She took the knives and a pistol, stashing them over her belt. She looked at the two swords. They are too big. Someone will see them.

Rea looked around the room to see if someone was watching her and then put the two swords in her arrow quiver. It could still be seen, so she took some more arrows and added them in, now almost covering the swords. Hopefully, it’ll do for now. She headed to the stables, where she mounted her horse and headed towards the castle walls. The doors were still open, so she exited them, waving at the guard.

Just as she thought that she fooled them and the hard part was over, someone yelled behind her. She turned to see who was calling her.

Ivan was riding a horse, waving at her.

When he was close enough, he said. »The king wanted me to accompany you, princess. He is worried that the pirate that ran away might kill you.«

He probably would, if it wasn’t for Tivon. Rea smiled, trying to hide her annoyance. »It is very kind of you, general.«

»You can call me Ivan, Rea. It feels weird when you call me general. We have known each other for so long, it’s weird.« He smiled as they continued their way.

»Yeah.« Smiled Rea.

It was true. He wasn’t that much older than her and Tivon and he looked after them since they were little kids. But right now, she really didn’t need him here. She had to get rid of him somehow.

Fortunately, she needed another horse and there was one right in front of her.

Chapter Text

Ivan, I always liked your stories, but I really want to be alone right now, though Rea as they were slowly riding through the forest, which was still damp even though it hadn't rained in about four days. Ivan was telling her about his stories on the seas, Rea riding behind him, waiting for the opportunity to get rid of him.

»Why so many arrows Rea? You haven't shot any of them yet.« Said Ivan all of a sudden.

»But there is nothing to shoot at.«

»There is always something to shoot at.« Said Ivan and continued. »You are one of the best shooters I have ever met. It's a shame that we can't have you in the royal army.«

»Women should still be allowed in armies. There are as good woman fighters as there are man fighters.« She said sharply.

»Women aren’t supposed to be in wars Rea.«

And you aren’t supposed to be here Ivan, and yet here we are. Ivan stopped looking down at the forest clearing filled with pink Camellia flowers. He sighed and looked away.

»Is everything okay?«

»He loved those flowers.« He said quietly and continued the way.

Rea knew who he was talking about even though Ivan never told her about it. She heard a word here and there among the guards and members of the royal army. When Rea and Tivon were nine, he had to go to sea because he was called to war.

Ivan had a lover who was also a member of the army, and they went together. Unfortunately, he lost him under the sword of a cursed pirate.

Rea looked down, feeling sympathy for the general. She was fortunate enough that she still had everyone she loved around her. Well, almost everyone.

They quietly continued ridding. She moved her head up, ready to try to cheer up Ivan and then she saw it. Her way to get rid of Ivan. Enixos.

The tree had little round flowers that looked like fruits. If you pop them the inside of the flower gives off an unpleasant smell, putting you in an instant coma for about an hour.

Rea reached for one of the flowers, holding it carefully. She came beside Ivan.

»Hey Ivan!«

As he turned to his right to see what Rea was showing him, she leaned back and popped the flower right under his nose.

»Re-« He couldn't even finish the sentence before he fell down his horse, drowsing off into a deep sleep.

Glad I was growing up with Tivon. She threw the flower away, dismounted her horse and leaned Ivan against a tree.

»I'm sorry Ivan.« While she was fixing him so he wouldn't be uncomfortable. »I promise I'll treat you to a nice breakfast at the town.«

Rea mounted her horse, took the reins of Ivan’s horse and headed to the hollow tree to grab the bag. She then headed straight to the cave, always looking around to see if there was someone following her.

Elias was resting, his head in Tivon’s lap, Tivon’s hand on his chest. Elias’ mind was troubled. Ever since they'd gotten captured his mind was still asking if Tivon ever forgave him. Maybe he never did.

His mouth spoke before his mind. »Did you believe them?« Tivon looked at him. »That I knew all along and that I was ordered to get you captured.«

Tivon leaned his head on the wall and sighed. »In truth... Yeah, I did.«

Elias was prepared to hear that, but deep inside, it still hurt.

»But I quickly realized that it didn't make sense. I figured that Sabur just wanted to get me more scared, more than I already were.« Continued Tivon.

Elias reached for Tivon’s hand. »I didn't know if you'd ever forgive me. Even now.«

Tivon squeezed his hand. »I would.« Elias smiled. »The only one to blame is Sabur and whoever told him about me.«

»It was Pit.« Said Elias quickly. »He overheard us, I’m sure of it.«

»Of course it was him.«

Elias closed his eyes. »I promise I'll kill him the next time I'll see him.«

Tivon laughed. »I'll help.«

»How long do you think we'll have to stay here?« Asked Elias after a minute of silence.

»Until you are ready to walk.«

»I was ready to walk two days ago.« Elias said with a provocative voice.

»Your wound hasn't healed yet.«

He moved his shirt up and removed the bandages. The wound was actually almost healed, but Tivon knew that if he moved it would still hurt him.

»See, it's fine.«

Tivon sighed. »Maybe tomorrow.«

They heard moving outside the cave and before they could move Rea rushed in. »We need to get out of here.«

Tivon was on his feet. »What?!«

»We?«said Elias.

Tivon ignored him and asked again. »What do you mean we need to go?«

She put down the arrow quiver. »Your father is going to close the castle. He's going to organize a search party to look for you. Eventually, he will find you here if we don't move.«

»But Elias isn't ready to-«

»I'm ready.« He stood up, slowly and carefully. »We need to move.«

»Fine.« He pointed a finger at Elias. »But if you start bleeding it's not my fault.«

Elias just smiled and winked at him, making Tivon’s face lit up red.

»I took as much food as I could.« She reached for her arrows and pulled out Elias’ swords. »And I also managed to take this from the armoury.«

She handed it to Elias. He slowly took them and examined them carefully to see if it was really his swords. Rea then reached into her belt and pulled out his three knives and the pistol.

»I think this is also yours.«

Elias took them and to Tivon’s surprise, his voice was genuine when he said thank you. Rea smiled and turned to go outside the cave. »We need to move.«

Tivon grabbed his bag while Elias put his knives and swords in their place. He breathed in relived to finally feel the familiar feel of the knives and swords against his body.

Tivon passed him with a smile. »You seemed to be attached to those things as much as you’re attached to me.«

»It’s hard to say, but I have to admit, I’m more attached to you.« Laughed Elias.

Tivon’s cheeks turned bright pink. He smiled and exited the cave, Elias following. Rea had already mounted her horse. Tivon stepped to the other horse and petted its nose.

»How did you manage to get two horses out of the castle without nobody noticing you?« He looked closer at the horse. »Is this Ivan’s horse?«

Rea smiled. »A long story.«

»Do we have to ride a horse?« Rea and Tivon turned to Elias. »Can’t we just walk?«

»We would be too slow.« A vicious smile ran over Rea’s face. »What, you don’t like horses?«

Elias frowned at her. »I’m a pirate, not a farmer. I ride ships.«

Rea turned and moved her horse forward. »Ay, ay captain.«

I’m going to push her off that horse. Tivon mounted the horse and asked Elias. »Do you need help getting on?«

»No.«

He somehow got on, trying to keep his balance, but as soon as the horse started moving, he grabbed Tivon around the waist, thinking that he might fall.

When he realized what he was doing, he quickly moved his hands away. Tivon smiled and pulled his hands back on over his waist. Elias leaned his head on Tivon’s shoulder and hugged him tighter. They caught up with Rea and moved their horses into a gallop, quickly making their way through the forest.

A ship with green sails moored in the harbour of The Kingdom of Naydawin. At first, the guards didn’t let the woman and her personal little army enter the castle, but her constant persuasion, got the guard to ask the king for permission for the woman to talk to the king.

He allowed it and the woman met the king in the big main room in the castle. She was walking quickly, dragging her long green dress across the floor, her shoulders covered with a green hood, with golden embroideries. Her brown hair was put up in a messy bun, green feathers hanging out of it.

She stopped before the king, inhaling in the smoke from her quellazaire. The makeup was all smudged, for being on her face for a couple of days. She fixed her green eyes on the king.

»What business are you looking for in my kingdom woman?« Asked king already irritated.

»I have some unfinished business.« She smiled. »With your son.«

Urien leaned his head on his hand. »What does my son have to do with you?«

»He owns me money.« She squeezed her eyes. »Lots of money.« She said slowly.

She moved across the room, looking at her surroundings. »I heard he ran away, again. And that Elias is with him.«

»Elias?«

She looked at him. »The murderer.« She inhaled again. »Let’s make a little deal.«

»I don’t make deals with people I don’t know.«

»Listen to me!« She moved closer. »Your son and that marily had been missing for almost six days and your useless army hadn’t found them yet. I have trained men who can find them faster than your royal asses.«

Now she was only one foot away from him.

Urien tried to hide his anger. He leaned back in his chair and thought for a moment. »And what do you want?«

»My money back.« She said sharply. She reached her hand forward. »Do we have a deal?«

Urien looked at her not saying anything. Then he reached into her hand and shook it. »Deal.«

Her red lips curled into a big vicious smile as they shook hands.

Chapter Text

The group of three quickly made their way through the forest. The setting sun made its way through the leaves of the trees, illuminating the forest in warm orange. The shadows became colder. The horses were still in gallop.

Whenever the terrain was uneven or the horse moved weirdly, Tivon could feel Elias’ grip tighten and release quickly. Tivon turned his head and looked over his shoulder, slowing his horse a little.

»Is everything okay?«

»Y-yeah.« Said Elias, hiding his pain with a smile.

Tivon could see that he was hiding something. He stopped his horse and turned to move Elias’ shirt up. The blood got through his bandages.

Tivon looked at him, his look serious. »Why didn’t you say anything?«

»It’s fine.«

Rea stopped and turned her horse. »Is everything okay?«

»We need to stop. Elias’ wound opened again.«

»I said I’m fi-« He tried to move, but the pain got worse.

»Either way we need to find a place to stay for the night.« Said Rea.

She looked around to see if she could find an appropriate spot for them to stay for the night. There was a clearing under a tree, old tree logs laying around.

Rea dismounted the horse. »We could stay here.«

Tivon got off the horse, helping Elias down and tied the horses to the trees. Elias sat down and started removing the bandages. Fortunately, the wound was just slightly opened, the stitches were still attached. Tivon took the brown liquid and the black flowers from his back and sat beside Elias. Rea stood there watching. Elias peered at her as like she was annoying him.

She noticed his look on her. »Oh, hmmm, I’ll go find wood for the fire.« Said Rea, turning around and going off into the forest.

»Okay.« Said Tivon and turned to mix the flower and the liquid. When se was far away, he said to Elias. »You don’t need to be rude to her.«

»I am not.« Tivon put the mixture on his wound. It stung Elias through his body. »Ouch!«

»Just try to be nice.«

Elias sighed. »Okay, I’ll try.«

Tivon smiled, putting the bandages over his wound.

Rea came back with hands full of wood and sticks. Elias stood up and came to her, taking the log into his hands, put them down and started building the fire.

»Thank you.« Said Rea with a kind smile.

Tivon grabbed food from the bag, while Elias set up the fire. They sat around and ate their food as the night fell.

»We should take shifts while we sleep, just to be more careful.« Recommended Rea. »I can take the first shift. You two can sleep.«

Tivon nodded and looked at Elias.

»Well, I won’t refuse an opportunity to rest.« Elias laid down, leaning his head on the log and closed his eyes. »Good night.«

»Good night.« Laughed Tivon.

He turned to Rea. She slowly nodded to him and whispered. »You should sleep too.«

Tivon looked down and nodded. He lowered himself and laid down his head on his bag. Rea pulled her coat over her shoulders and curled herself closer to her knees, looking at the flames curling itself into the night sky.

Ivan was walking down a long hallway. He was filled with anger and embarrassment. He was mostly embarrassed.

He got tricked by Rea. He should’ve seen it coming – Rea and Tivon were a handful growing up. He should’ve seen it coming.

And now he needed to face the king. Fear rushed through his body as he realized the situation he was in. Ivan was in hock to look after Rea so she wouldn’t get captured by the murderer and then she managed to trick him and get him unconscious. And she stole his horse. His horse!

When he came to the door leading to Urien’s office, he took a big breath. He tried to convince himself that he was ready to take all the necessary consequences. He opened the door and looked Urien straight into his angry eyes.

He was not ready.

»Sit down general.«

Ivan quietly moved to the chair in front of the table and sat down.

»So it’s not that my son and a murderer are on the loose, Rea is also missing?« asked Urien sharply.

»My greatest apologies, my king. I didn’t see it coming.«

»Is she with them?«

»I don’t know, sir.« Said Ivan. He didn’t know why he lied. He was sure that Rea was helping Tivon, but something in him said, that it’s better that the king doesn’t know about it.

This means treason, Ivan. Better be careful.

»That woman was right, my army is useless.«

Ivan looked up quickly. »What woman?«

The doors burst open, and The Green Woman walked to them.

»Me.« she said with a big smile. She inhaled her cigarette and looked down on Ivan. »And who’s this blondy?«

»He is the general of my ’useless’ army, as you called it.«

»Oh, interesting.« She smiled playfully at Ivan. »Still haven’t found them?«

»You haven’t found them too.« Said Urien and leaned in his chair.

She looked at him. »Oh, soon enough marily.«

Ivan went to his feet. »You don’t talk like that to the king!«

»A feisty one, aren’t you?« She puffed smoke into his face.

»Luana, could you please leave us alone.«

Luana didn’t turn her face away from Ivan’s angry eyes. »Fine.«

She turned and slowly exited the room, dragging her dress on the floor, stalling for the dramatic effect.

Ivan turned to Urien. »What is this woman doing here? Who even is she?«

The king sighed. »She claims to be a woman of great importance. My son and the Masked Man own her money. She said that she has a personal army who can find them faster-«

»And you just trust her?« Interrupted Ivan.

»Don’t interrupt me!« He raised his voice. »I don’t trust her, but if she finds them, I’m prepared to pay her.« He looked up from the table. »But I still need you. It would be better if you find them first. Send some troops to look at the forest, a troop to look at the village and one at the sea.«

Ivan nodded. He turned around to leave.

»And Ivan.« He turned to the king. »Keep an eye on her.” His voice was sharp and serious. “Don’t let me down again.«

»Yes, sir.« Bowed Ivan and left the room.

When he closed the door Luana was waiting behind them.

»What is such a pretty young man doing in a castle?« He ignored her and continued his way. »You would fit right in my house. Just like Tivon did.«

Ivan turned around. »What?«

»Oh, Tivon was just perfect. Well, not quiet. His scar was a problem and he was a troublemaker.« She waved her quellazaire around as she was talking.

Ivan stepped closer. »What does Tivon have to do with you?«

»Oh, with everything general.« She stroked his face. »You see he owns me money. But not just money.« Her look suddenly became deadly serious. »He murdered my sister.«

»What?! Tivon would never.«

»Oh, marily. He is not an innocent boy you may know.« She moved her quellazaire down his face to his neck. »He lied, manipulated his way to the higher ranks and then when my sister visited him, he stabbed her right in her neck.« She pressed the quellazaire against his neck, causing Ivan to move away.

»Don’t get close to me!« He said while covering the burn on his neck.

She smiled viciously, turned and slowly continued her way down the hallway.

What the hell is wrong with that woman? And Tivon... That couldn’t be true. Not Tivon. He moved his hand away. I need to find them before she does. He turned around and ran to the armoury to prepare the troops to find the missing kids.

He dreamt of her again. But this time he was trapped under her heavy body and blood wasn’t coming out of her mouth. It was coming from her light blue, almost white eyes, pouring down on Tivon.

He quickly woke up, breathing heavily.

»Are you okay?« Asked Rea, staring at him with curious green eyes.

»I’m okay.« He sighed and sat up. »Just a nightmare.«

»Want to talk about it?« Tivon shook his head. He wasn’t ready to tell her about the murder. »If you’re not ready you don’t need to, but you don’t need to hide things from me. You can trust me.« Smiled Rea.

»I know.« He looked at Elias peacefully sleeping.

»How did you two meet?«

Tivon looked at her. »Do you know about The Rose Sparrow?« Rea nodded. »When I ran away, they attacked the merchant ship I was on. They killed the whole crew, but they let me live. He let me live.« He looked at Elias again. »He’s the reason I’m alive.«

Rea leaned closer like a curious child wanting to know the end of the story.

»He showed me around their island, I worked with him, I spent a lot of time with him.« Tivon smiled and Rea could see in the dim light of the fire a slight blush on his face. »He showed me what it means to live.«

»So he isn’t this murderer all the stories tell us about.«

»Oh, he is everything the stories tell. I’ve seen him angry, furious. But never at me.«

Rea looked at Elias and then at Tivon. »He cares about you.«

Tivon nodded.

Rea smiled. It was that kind smile she always gave him when they were little. »I can see it. When he looks at you and the way he talks to you, the way he is around you.«

Tivon blushed and looked at Elias. »I guess I’m lucky, I stumbled across him.«

»Yeah.« Rea tried to hide the sadness in her voice. She yawned.

»You can go to sleep. I’ll take the next shift.« Said Tivon.

He grabbed a log and put it over the fire. Rea nodded and lay down. She was tired. Rea only then realized what had happened that day.

She ran away to help her best friend and a murderer, but at the same time she felt free, she felt alive. She smiled at herself as she fell asleep.

Chapter Text

Elias was sitting by the fire, looking at its fading light as the morning sun peeked through the trees. Rea and Tivon were peacefully sleeping, and Elias had no intention of waking them up yet.

He moved his shirt up and moved the bandages to see to his wound. Whatever Tivon had been putting on him in the last couple of days, had helped the healing drastically. It was almost healed.

Can I fight? He asked himself. He sat up and grabbed one of his swords. Elias moved a bit further into the forest so he wouldn’t wake up Tivon and Rea.

He moved the sword in his hand, trying to find the right familiar grip. He hasn’t been using the swords in almost seven days. He swung the sword through the air. For now, the wound didn’t hurt.

He felt a rush of embarrassment and anger running through him. He hated being this weak, especially in front of Tivon. He swung again, moving his body more. I got hurt because I was weak. He moved again, this time feeling a little sting at the side, but chose to ignore it. I could’ve died. Elias struck the sword into the tree. He could’ve died.

»Elias?«

Elias came back to the reality. He hasn’t even noticed that he has been breathing heavily, his heart racing fast. He turned around to see Tivon standing behind him.

»Is everything okay?« Asked Tivon, his eyes, trying to find the reason why he was acting that way.

Elias pulled the sword out of the tree. »Everything is okay. I was just trying to see if I can fight without the wound opening.«

Tivon came closer. »And?«

Elias moved his shirt. The bandages were clean. »I guess it’s okay.«

He looked up to Tivon. The morning sun shone on him, lighting up his scared eye. So beautiful. I could’ve lost that. He came closer to him, but he didn’t look at him.

»Tivon, I’m sorry.« He sighed. »For these couple of days, I was so weak. I was slowing us down. I still do.« He swallowed. »You could’ve died and I wouldn’t be there to protect you.«

Tivon held his hand.

»Don’t be sorry. It wasn’t your fault and it never would’ve been.« Elias looked at him and Tivon smiled. »And you need someone to protect you too.«

Elias smiled, letting out a small, relieved laugh. He squeezed his hand. He looked at his beautiful eyes. He could see that Tivon was tired, not just tired. Something was on his mind.

»Tell me.« Elias said quietly.

»Huh?«

»Something is on your mind.« Said Elias.

Tivon sighed and closed his eyes. »I saw her again, in the dreams. I saw Alieana.« He took a shaky breath and looked at Elias. »For the most part I’ve gotten used to it, but the feeling of being unable to move, seeing her die.« Tivon looked away. »I just wished it was easier.«

Suddenly Elias dropped his swords and hugged him.

»Oh, Tivon, I wished I could say that it gets easier, but I can’t. I don’t even know how to help myself, let alone help you.« He hugged him tighter. »But I’m trying to, and I won’t stop trying. I promise I’ll stay by your side and help you.«

Tivon hugged him back and Elias could feel Tivon’s warm tears on his shirt.

»Thank you.« Tivon said under his shirt.

»Thank you too.«

Elias held his shoulders and looked at him. »Now let’s go prepare something to eat.« He said while he whipped away Tivon’s tears.

Tivon nodded and added. »And we need to weak Rea up.«

»We don’t need to.« Smiled Elias.

Tivon shuddered him and Elias laughed. »I’m just messing with you.«

He took his sword off the ground, and they headed to the fireplace. Elias grabbed some bread and fruit, while Tivon woke up Rea.

»Is it already morning?« She asked as she stretched her arms.

Elias split the food into three parts and handed it to Tivon and Rea. »Yes, and it’s also time to move.«

He sat down and bit into his bread.

»And your wound is healed all of a sudden?«

»Actually, it is.« He moved his shirt up for Rea to see the clean bandages.

»Aha.«

Tivon had to laugh. »Just eat up, you two. We still aren’t far away to be safe.«

»Where do you even plan to go? They will find us eventually.« Said Rea while biting into a plum. “We all basically committed treason.”

»I’m not sure yet. But I’ll figure it out.« He looked at both of them. »I promise.«

After they had eaten, they put everything in their bags, took out the fire and mounted the horses. They tried to cover up every evidence of them being there.

They took one last look and continued their way through the forest. They were trying to get closer to the little village Penrith.

Six figures entered the cave where Rea and Tivon spent their childhood. They were dressed in black coveralls; their heads were wrapped up in ropes. Their faces were hidden behind dark green masks. The masks resembled a jade dragon. They were armed with all kinds of different deadly weapons.

They looked around the cave, finding still-fresh embers and dried-up blood on the floor of the cave. The group of six looked at each other and signalled themselves with a nod. They quickly exited the cave and mounted their horses, running through the forest, looking at the ground for the marks of horses' hooves.

They didn’t stop, for they had work to do. They had to find the ones who killed their master’s sister.

The trio stopped a little further away from Penrith, which was a rather small village by a forest clearing. They dismounted their horses by a small river and by a half-open cave, for them to hide and sleep in.

»I’ll go into the village to get us some clothes and food.« Said Elias as he was tying the horse to the tree.

»We’ll make a fire in the meantime.« Said Rea and looked at Tivon who nodded.

Elias turned to go as Tivon said. »Be careful.« Elias turned around. »They might not know you, but still be careful.«

Elias smiled and nodded. He disappeared quickly and quietly as a shadow. Rea reached into the bag and picked out two apples. She turned to the horses and gave each one of them one apple.

»Ivan will be so mad.« She said while stroking Ivan's horse.

»They’ll all be.« Laughed Tivon.

He started gathering wood that lay around, bringing it to the entrance of the cave. Rea helped him. For a couple of minutes, they did that in silence, when then Rea asked.

»What made you cut your hair?« Tivon looked at her. »Not that it looks bad, I actually really like it.«

Tivon blushed slightly. »I didn’t want to be limited. I felt trapped, so I just decided to cut it.«

He sat down by the gathered wood and tried to light it up. Rea sat on the other side, curious to hear more from him.

»I know that a lot of people hated it and some still do, but it made me more alive. And it helped me forget about The Jade Paradise.«

»The Jade Paradise?« Asked Rea.

Tivon sighed. He’ll have to tell here eventually. He might as well do it now. »It was a job assigned to me and Elias. We had to steal a necklace, but our plans changed. I had to be a part of The Jade Paradise.« He managed to light up the fire. Tivon lowered his posture.

»I became a jade boy. I became a part of the pleasure house.«

Elias moved from shadow to shadow. The streets were quite busy for such a small village. He hid himself in his coat and moved further through the town, making his way to the market square.

And just as he moved like a shadow, he stole bread there, a shirt there and fruit there unnoticed by anyone, just like a shadow. When he had more than he could hold, he exited the village through a narrow street, leading straight back into the forest.

But something caught his eye. He turned his head to the wall. On it were three posters. Posters of three wanted people.

»A pleasure house?! Tivon who made you do such a thing?« Asked Rea hysterically.

»It was my own choice. And it does sound as bad as it was. Through time I figured out that the other boys weren’t there voluntarily. They were sold as slaves. And if things couldn’t get any worse. The woman who has these pleasure houses, The Green Woman, has these houses all over Krens and even outside of it. One is even in the town by the castle.«

»Tivon-« Rea’s voice was worried.

»And if I wanted to finish the job,« Interrupted Tivon. »I had to meet up with her sister.«

Tivon pulled his knees closer to his chest.

»She knew about our plan and was planning to kill me. But I was quicker.« He lookeAd away. »If you could say so.«

Rea ran to him and hugged him.

»Tivon I.. I« She stuttered.

Tivon could feel hot tears falling on him. »I’m sorry. I’m sorry, I couldn’t be there for you. I’m sorry, I didn’t go look for you.«

Tivon slowly hugged her back. »Rea, you did enough. If it was just waiting for me - that was enough.«

He pulled her away to look into her eyes, which were filled with tears. »Now wipe those tears away. I don’t like to see you cry.«

Rea smiled through her tears and laughed.

Suddenly Elias burst into the cave, startling both Rea and Tivon.

»Good news, I got myself a new shirt.« He said out of breath. »Bad news.« He showed them three posters, on each one of them the trio. Underneath them was written wanted.

»We might have a slight problem.«

Chapter Text

Tivon looked at the posters. The most shocking part was that Elias was drawn without the mask and Tivon’s hair was cut. And they were wanted. The only good thing was that the kingdom needed them alive.

»We'll need to move in the morning.« Said Elias, taking his coat off. He looked at Rea and her face was wet from tears. »What happened to you?«

Rea quickly wiped away her tears. »Nothing.«

Elias just shrugged and threw the coat on the ground.

»This isn't good.« Said Tivon looking at the posters. »And now even Rea is wanted.«

Elias grabbed the edges of his shirt that was ripped where Urien stabbed him and on it was dried blood. »Welcome to my world.« He smiled and took off the shirt, revealing his bandages and a silver lily necklace.

Rea quickly looked away, trying to respect his privacy which Elias didn't seem to care about, but as Rea glanced back, she noticed the necklace. She recognized it in a moment.

The necklace was passed down for generations. A rush of jealousy went through her as she looked away.

Elias put on the new shirt which was almost identical to the one before. It was a sleeveless black sheath shirt with a slight turtleneck. He grabbed his coat off the ground, put it on and sat beside Tivon.

Tivon put down the posters. »We'll need to be more careful now.«

»Well, we are kind of used to it.« Said Elias, he looked at Rea. »It will be a new experience for Rea.«

She didn't say anything. It looked like she was in another world.

»Rea?«

She looked at them. »Yes?«

»Are you okay?« Asked Tivon.

»Yeah.« She smiled and stood up. »I'll just go on a walk for a moment.«

She quickly exited the cave.

»Is this normal for her?«

»When she's on edge she likes to take long walks.« Said Tivon.

Elias leaned on the wall of the cave. »Well, it's not every day you are wanted in a kingdom. She’ll get the hang of it.«

Rea’s heart was racing. She could feel tears coming, but she swallowed them down. She knew exactly what that necklace meant. She knew that Tivon wouldn't just give it to anyone. She stopped, and leaned on a tree, trying to catch her breath. She knew that Tivon and she had been just friends. So why am I jealous? Why am I hurt?

Rea knew that she would one day have to marry Tivon. At first, she didn't want to. They were friends, she could never. But with time she tried to see Tivon as her future husband, and she eventually started to fall in love.

She hated it. She knew it was unfair. So why is she so hurt right now?

Rea took a breath. He deserves better than me. He deserves him. She straightened her posture. And you deserve someone too. Just not Tivon. She smiled to herself and turned to get back to Tivon and Elias.

»Where should we move next?« Asked Rea as they were eating roasted fish that Elias caught in the nearby river.

»We could move towards the Hewe.« Said Tivon. »It's near an abandoned village. We could sleep in one of the houses for the night.«

»We could stop by natural spring lakes on the way there.«

»You want to relax while the whole royal army is looking for us?« Asked Elias, rolling his eyes.

»I didn't mean it like that. Hygiene is still important, but I guess that's not a first priority for a pirate.«

Elias peered through her. »For a matter of fact, I care for my hygiene.«

Rea looked from his feet to his head. »Doesn't look like it.«

Elias pointed a finger at her. »Take that back.«

»No.« Smiled Rea.

Tivon laughed as he was watching them argue.

»And now you too.« Said Elias crossing his arms.

Tivon didn't say anything. He just leaned back on his hands and smiled. He yawned. »I guess I'll go to sleep if you two have that much energy.«

He laid down, using his bag as a pillow. Elias looked at Rea. »You should sleep too.«

Rea smiled and nodded. She lay down and fell asleep.

Yesterday it was all fun when they argued, thought Tivon as they were making their way to Hewe. They were close to the natural spring lakes. But this is too much.

Tivon’s head hurt. Elias and Rea were talking all the time. Well, if it was just talking Tivon could manage, but they were constantly going at each other.

»Haven't seen you use that bow. Do you even know how to use it?« Mocked Elias.

»I probably know better how to use it than you with your swords.« Said Rea, her voice impudent.

»I doubt that.«

Rea looked over her shoulder. »Then prove it.«

Elias suddenly grabbed one of his knives fastened on his leg and threw it into the tree, right passed Tivon’s ear. It hit an apple, but it didn't fall.

»Can you not throw knives near my head!« Screamed Tivon.

Rea let out an impressive hmm. Elias smiled proudly. »Your turn.«

Rea took off her bow and took one arrow. She drew the bow and fired, right at the stem of the apple, causing it to fall off. Before everyone could notice she took one more arrow and shot it through the apple, right by Elias’ knife. The apple impaled into the tree.

Rea smiled and looked back at Elias. Tivon wasn't really impressed, he had seen her shot countless times, but Elias’ jaw was almost on the floor.

Rea laughed. »Are we speechless, huh pirate?«

»W-well, but do you know how to use a sword.«

They moved on, Rea taking the apple of the tree.

»Why would I need to if my bow is enough?« Said Rea, giving the apple to her horse.

»Can y-you two quiet dow-«

Elias just barely caught him before Tivon would fall off the horse. As Elias held him close to his chest, he could feel Tivon’s scar burning. Rea stopped her horse.

»Tivon?«

»It’s just the p-pain.«

Elias quickly grabbed Tivon’s bag to find the Hyssopy flowers, as he was rummaging through the bag he shouted to Rea. »Rea, get me some water.«

She quickly reached into her bag for a bottle of water. In the meantime, Elias found the flowers. He managed to get some of them out of the bottle while holding Tivon with the other hand. Rea moved her horse closer and mixed the flowers in the water. Tivon had just enough energy to grab the bottle and drink it.

Elias held him tightly, wiping the blood coming from Tivon’s left eye.

»Since when do you bleed from your eye?« Asked Rea. Tivon just smiled. »Don’t just smile at me. It could be serious.«

Elias looked at Rea. »We should set camp for today.«

She nodded and turned forward. »The spring lakes are just a bit further into the forest.«

Elias looked down at Tivon. »Can you hold on until we get there?«

»You’re t-talking like I’m dying. I just n-need to rest.«

Elias smiled and hugged Tivon tightly with one arm. With the other, he grabbed the horse reins.

»Do you e-even know how to ride a horse?«

»I’ll manage.« He smiled. “After all I’m a quick learner.”

He moved the horse, and they slowly made their way to the lakes. Tivon managed to fall asleep.

When Tivon woke up Rea and Elias were making the fire. Tivon was covered with Elias’ coat. Rea noticed that he woke up.

»Are you feeling better Tivon?«

He nodded. Tivon looked around to see where the lakes were, but he couldn’t see any. »Didn’t you say that there will be lakes here?«

»There is one down the hill, behind those bushes.« Said Rea pointing behind Tivon.

Tivon took Elias’ coat, carefully folded it and put it on the ground. »Would you mind if I go there? It might help me relax my muscles.«

»Oh, you didn’t need to ask. Take your time.« Said Rea with a heartwarming smile.

Tivon stood up and went to the lakes. Elias sat down and sighed.

»Something on your mind pirate?«

»I have a name.« Said Elias sharply.

»I know.«

She sat beside him. »Go with him.«

Elias blushed slightly. »He wanted to go alone.«

Rea laughed. »He is just scared to say it because I’m here.«

»And you don’t have a problem with that?« Elias looked at her.

Rea looked up into the night sky. »Not anymore.« She looked at him. »But you’ll still need to prove yourself to me, to see if you really deserve him.«

Elias laughed, shaking his head and at the same time blushing even harder.

»Go.« She shuddered him in the arm.

Elias went to his feet and headed to where Tivon was going. He stopped and turned around. »I still don’t trust you.«

Rea smiled. »And I still don’t trust you, pirate.«

Elias smirked and went downhill.

There were countless little lakes, surrounded by rocky hills and trees. Hot steam was coming from them, making the surroundings foggy and warm.

Tivon was in the middle of the lake right down the hill. He was turned away, lost in his thoughts.

Elias stripped off his clothes, let his hair down and joined him in the pleasantly warm water. He swam to him and then stood up as the water was shallow. Tivon looked at him. He didn’t say anything.

Is he going to just stare at me, or is he going to say something? thought Elias as he was looking down at him. Say something.

Tivon looked down at Elias’ smooth, untouched body, stopping his eyes on the wound.

»If it wasn't for me you wouldn't get it.« He said with a sad tone.

»You could’ve not saved me.« Tivon looked up. »You could've believed them to think I knew all along that you were the prince. You could’ve decided to listen to me and not get back into the castle for the medicine, you could’ve just left me to die.« A soft smile ran through his face. »But you didn't.«

Tivon stood up and drove himself closer, moving towards the side of the lake. He reached his hands towards his wound and stroked it gently.

»But your front was clean, barely any scars and now this one.«

»It'll be a great memory.« Laughed Elias.

»A memory? Of me?« He moved closer, reaching his head to his, sliding his hands to his. »A mare runaway prince that fell in love with a gorgeous murderous pirate?«

»A mare runaway prince?« His lips were almost touching him. »That sounds alright with me.«

Tivon pressed his lips against him, pushing him against the rocky wall. Elias’ hands slid down his waist. Elias pulled him closer, sinking deeper into his kiss. As they slowly parted Tivon looked at his blue eyes. It seemed to him that they were even brighter that night. Elias cupped his head and smiled.

»Hey, love birds!« Screamed Rea from behind the bushes. »The fire will go out if you don't get back.«

Elias rolled his eyes. »I’m seriously going to push her off that horse.«

Tivon laughed and kissed him again. Then he quickly turned around and swam back to where he left his clothes.

You make me weak Tivon. Elias smiled. But at the same time, you’re making me a better, stronger person.

»Are you coming?« Shouted Tivon, while putting on clothes.

»Yeah, I am.« Said Elias and swam out of the warm water into the cold night.

Chapter Text

As the night was getting darker and colder the group sat by the fire eating their frugal dinner. As the fire was crackling and warming them up Rea stood up.

»I'll go for a quick swim, if you don't mind.« She looked at them sitting side by side. »Well, you'll defiantly won’t mind.«

Their faces turned bright red in an instant and Rea laughed while turning towards the bushes.

»Just be careful not to fall into the fire.« She screamed behind the bushes, following with a gentle giggle.

Rea walked down the hill, stopping by the lake, undressing herself and letting her hair down. She quickly jumped into the warm water. The calm steamy water welcomed her into its embrace. She breathed out and relaxed her muscles. Could get used to this.

She noticed little white dots on the surface of the lake. She tried to touch them, but it didn't seem that they were on the lake. Rea looked up and, in a clearing, surrounded by trees a night sky full of thousands of million bright stars shone down on her. She smiled.

Definitely could get used to this.

For a minute Elias and Tivon just sat there in silence, only interrupted by the fire cracking. Elias moved closer, putting his coat over his and Tivon’s shoulders.

»You seemed cold.« Said Elias quietly.

Tivon pulled the coat closer and snuggled closer to Elias. And there was silence again, but this time warmer.

»Do you know how to dance?« Asked Tivon all of a sudden.

»Huh?«

Tivon stood up and offered him his hand.

»Tiv, I don't know ho-«

Tivon took his hand and pulled him to his feet. »I can teach you.« He held both of his hands and winked. »It's just like fighting.«

He put one hand over his waist and put his hand on Tivon’s shoulder.

»We don't have any music.«

»We don't need it.«

Tivon pulled him closer, now looking at each other, face to face.

»Avoid my steps.«

Tivon started walking towards him, Elias looking down.

»Look into my eyes.« Said Tivon quietly.

Elias looked up, continuing to avoid Tivon’s steps and Tivon avoiding his. Just as he got a hang of it, Tivon pulled him, making a little circle. Elias almost lost his step, but Tivon held him tight. He smiled at him and turned them around again.

In time Elias got a hang of it, and they started flowing around the fireplace. Suddenly Tivon let go of him, putting his left hand behind his back and holding the right hand up in the air.

Elias quickly did the same and they made two slow circles, looking at each other's eyes. Tivon then put hands on him again and they danced on, quietly, like two fireflies in the dark night.

Rea leaned against the rocky shore, looking at the charming stars sprinkled around the night sky. Even though she was on the run, she felt more relaxed than she had in the past couple of months at the castle. It only matters that Tivon's okay. It only matters that he's happy. That’s all that matters.

She noticed them moving behind the bushes in the corner of her eye. She didn't look. They needed privacy. But it looked like they were running around, so she looked.

A big smile ran across her face when she realized that the two of them were dancing. She rested her head on her arms and looked at them. Didn’t know pirates could dance.

As it was getting colder, she went out of the lake and put her clothes back on, quickly getting back to the fire to warm herself up. She tried to pass the dancing couple quietly and unnoticeably, but Tivon noticed her, grabbing her hand and pulling her to them.

Rea tried to step back and let them dance, but Tivon just nodded, letting her be a part of the dance. Rea smiled and the trio danced into the night, with the voice of Rea’s humming, cracking fire and subtle laughter.

The next day was cold as the sun was trapped behind grey clouds. Tivon looked down from the cloudy sky.

»Let’s just hope it’s not going to rain.«

Rea looked at him. »Well, we are quite close to Hewe and the sun will set down any minute now.« She pointed at abandoned houses and a forest surrounded by the ruins of an old town.

»Why is there an abandoned village near an already existing town? And what happened here?« Asked Elias.

»This town was called Rhiamon.« Started Tivon. »The town had some of the best doctors in Krens.«

»It was known for having a market of countless different herbs, flowers and rocks.« Continued Rea as she stopped her horse to look at the countless different flowers growing over a mossy ground.

»But it was destroyed.« Said Tivon and Rea moved her horse. »Well, more burnt down.”

»Why would you destroy a town that can be beneficial to the kingdom?« Asked Elias.

»There was a rumour - that witches were the ones selling and making medicine, creams and all sorts of liquids.« Said Rea.

She noticed an empty house, that was still standing and would be perfect for their stay.

Elias looked at Tivon. »You said that you don’t believe in witches.«

»I don’t. They were just smart woman.« He sighed. »My grand grandfather-«

»And mine too.« Interrupted Rea.

»Yeah, the Kingdom of Naydawin and the Kingdom of Lucine were connected since even before my grand grandfathers ruled.«

»Our grandfathers were known as The Witch Hunters.« Rea dismounted her horse and grabbed her horse reins.

Tivon stopped his horse, and both Tivon and Elias dismounted their horses. »They went to village after village, killing every witch they could find.«

»What?« Tivon was surprised to hear confusion in Elias’ voice.

Rea looked down. »But this town. The women stood up for themselves, trying to protect this little town.« Rea closed her eyes. »So they burnt the whole village down.«

»You and your royal asses solving problems with murder.« Suddenly said Elias.

Rea turned to him. »Excuse me?!«

»It’s true. For centuries you’ve been hunting down witches and when that wasn’t enough you’ve just burnt down everyone. And I mean everyone innocent too.« He pointed at the ruins. »And I beat you that this isn’t the first town they’ve destroyed.«

»Elias!« Tivon couldn’t quite believe it.

Rea stepped towards him. »That’s a lot coming from a pirate!« She pointed a finger at him, raising her voice. »You’ve been ruining our trade routes for centuries and you’ve destroyed countless of our merchant ships, killing thousands of innocent lives.«

Tivon tried to step in between them. »Rea...«

»And you.« She was face to face with Elias, both of their looks sharp and fixed at each other. »You are the worst of them. You are just a filthy, murderous fernty!« Rea screamed.

»Have you ever reconsidered that I didn’t choose to be like this?! You’ve just heard stories about The Masked Man and thought that, oh, it must all be true. Did it ever cross your noble, highborn mind that they made me like this?! A fernty as you call it!« Yelled Elias. “You have no right to call me that! You have no idea what awful things I had to go through.”

Tivon pushed them away from each other. »Stop it! Both of you.«

Both stepped away, to Tivon's surprise both swallowing their tears down. »We're tired. We've been ridding whole day.«

»I'll get the wood.« Said Elias coldly and turned around.

»I'll take care of the horses.« Rea quickly turned to the horses.

Tivon sighed exhaustingly and went to see the house. He was tired and he knew that they were too, but Elias shouldn't have said that. Then again Rea shouldn't say what she did either.

He quickly glanced at Rea. She was shaking in anger while tying the horses to a tree. Then he turned to see where Elias was. At first, he didn't seem angry, but when you looked at his eyes you could see that they were burning. I need to talk to them.

Tivon walked to Rea, who was struggling to detach the bag from the horse saddle.

»Let me help.«

»I'll manage. Thank you.« She said sharply.

»Rea.«

»You don't need to talk to me. Talk to him.«

He grabbed her hand. »Rea. I know he hurt you, but I'm sure he didn't mean it.« Rea tried to swallow down her tears. »And I'm sure you didn't mean what you said to him.«

»I don't know if I meant it or not.« She sighed. »I know that I don't know him and I probably never will, but.« She managed to detach the bag. Rea looked at Tivon. »If I'm bothering you two just say it. I'll leave.«

She went towards the house, where Elias was already lighting up the fire.

»Rea.«

She didn't turn around.

As soon as Elias lit up the fire, he went inside. Rea sat down by the fire. When Tivon went passed her to go talk to Elias she said. »I'll take the first watch.«

She pulled her coat over her shoulders, avoiding Tivon’s eyes. Tivon opened the door and looked around the room. Elias wasn't there. He noticed the stairs, so he went up. The room was dark and lit up only by the moon peeking through a window. Elias was standing in front of it.

When Tivon tried to take a step forward Elias said. »I don't need you to tell me that she didn't mean it.« Tivon stopped. »I know she meant everything she said.«

»Elias.«

Elias turned around. »They are all the same. They only see the bad in people. Let it be a witch in every woman they see, or a pirate, a murderer in every man that is not some royal blood.«

Tivon took a step forward. »You know that not everyone is like that. I'm not.«

»Don't start with the I'm different.«

Tivon stopped. »You think I'm lying to you? That everything was a lie?«

Elias could hear the hurt in his voice and in that moment, he wanted to take it all back.

»No, I didn-.«

»If you think we're all the same,« he turned. »Then leave.«

»Tivon.«

It was too late. Tivon was gone and Elias was left alone again.

Tivon ran down the stairs, tears filling his eyes, but he couldn't let them out. He sat down and leaned against the wall. Elias was right. They were not different.

If Tivon never met Elias, he would still think of the pirates as... As fernties. He didn't like that word. Since he met Elias’, he didn't want to hear it ever again. He closed his eyes.

Tivon wanted this to end. For this to pass. He wanted yesterday evening to come back. And then Tivon realized that all he ever wanted in life was to have something. And then he knew that Elias was right.

Elias clenched his fist. In sudden anger trapped inside of him, he kicked the nearby piece of wood lying on the floor. You fucking piece of shit Elias. Why are you always so egocentric? He sat down on the window still.

Because the village was on a hill, you could see the big meadow, right before the forest where the ruins of a town could be seen, disappearing in the darkness of the night.

He hurt him again. And this time he didn't know if Tivon would forgive him.

Chapter Text

When Elias woke up, he was still sitting on the window ledge. It was just before dawn. Elias pulled his coat closer to him. He spent the whole night there, away from the fire. He looked over the room, hoping to see Tivon somewhere near him. But he wasn’t there. Elias looked down. I should apologize.

He sighed and prepared to go to him when he noticed something moving in the corner of his eye. He looked through the window to the meadow.

There were six figures dressed in black, riding their horses towards them. Elias’ pupils widened. He didn’t think, he just grabbed his swords, ran downstairs and screamed. »We need to go. Now!«

He woke up Rea, who looked confused, trying to wake up. »What?«

»They’re coming!«

Rea was on her feet in no time. Elias opened the door and burst out almost causing Tivon to have a heart attack.

»We need to go.« Said Elias, grabbing the bag and putting it on the horse. Rea ran out of the house and went to untie their horses.

As Tivon was mounting his horse he asked. »How did the royal army find us this quickly?!«

Elias joined him and looked over his shoulder. The group of six were almost at their feet.

»It’s not the royal army.«

»Go!« Screamed Rea and they moved their horses. Elias had to grab Tivon so that he didn’t fall off.

»It’s The Green Woman!« He screamed.

»Even worse.« Cried Tivon.

Elias grabbed his knife. He turned around and threw it into one of the men, hitting him in the shoulder. The man fell off his horse.

Rea looked over her shoulder to see the position of the five remaining guys. She then looked before her and steadied her horse. She took one arrow and drew her bow, hitting another man in the thigh. It slowed the man down, but he still managed to catch up with the team. Rea quickly grabbed the reins and quickened the pace.

Elias looked in front of them, trying to find something that might help them. Tivon looked behind them.

»Why the hell is The Green Woman after us?«

»Last time I checked you killed her sister, and I killed her guards. And sabotaged her house.« Screamed Elias.

Something passed Elias’ head.

»What was that?« Asked Rea.

She turned to see one of the men holding a slingshot, firing rocks at them.

»Shit.« Said Tivon and grabbed the reins tighter, forcing his horse to go faster. Elias and Rea tried to avoid the flying rocks.

»We should g-« said Tivon before a rock hit the side of his head knocking him out.

Elias managed to grab him in time. »Tivon!?«

He wasn’t responding. Rea looked over her shoulder.

»Shit.« She moved her horse to the right. »Elias this way.«

Elias grabbed the reins with one hand and with the other he held Tivon tightly. He followed Rea. The forest became more cramped with trees. It was harder for them to see the army, but because Rea knew the terrain, they managed to shake off the army.

Suddenly the terrain changed into a rocky cliff, high up from the sea. Rea had to forcibly stop the horse, pulling the reins towards her, so she didn’t fall from the cliff.

Elias couldn’t stop the horse in time, causing it to hit Rea’s horse. Elias and Tivon fell off the horse. Rea’s horse slipped off the edge and Rea just barely managed to grab the edge of the cliff.

»Rea!« Screamed Elias and in the same second, he could see blood dripping down from Tivon’s head. He’s hurt. Tivon’s hurt.

He looked back at Rea, struggling to hold the edge, her breathing hysterical. She looked down to see the sharp rocks peeking out of the sea. It was a long fall. Her hand was slipping, and for a second, she was ready to let go. She was ready to meet death.

Elias launched himself forward, grabbing Rea’s hand, just in time. He pulled her back on the rock-head. She was trying to catch her breath while Elias picked up Tivon, seeing to his wound. In the distance, they could hear the army approach.

Rea looked back in the forest. She walked these woods a thousand times. She knew that there was a big hollow tree trunk, covered in moss, big enough for someone to hide in. She looked at Elias. »Take Tivon and hide in the forest. There’s a hollow tree where you can hide.«

»What about you?«

»You need to save yourself.« Screamed Rea. She took a breath. »You need to get away. I’ll slow them down.«

»I-I can’t go without you-«

Rea grabbed her moon necklace and pulled it off. She put it in Elias’ hand and looked him in the eyes. »If I can’t do anything else, at least I can save your lives.«

She smiled and grabbed the horse reins.

»Rea!«

She grabbed her bow and looked at Elias, who was still sitting on the ground, holding Tivon and looking at her.

»GO!« She screamed as she moved her horse back from where they came from.

Elias grabbed Tivon and ran into the forest.

Rea took one last look over her shoulder to see if Elias listened to her. She then took her arrow and looked forward. She could see them approaching her. Rea didn’t stop.

She ran straight at them. She closed her eyes and breathed in and out. She drew her bow and opened her eyes, firing and managing to hit one guy. Before they could notice, Rea took another arrow firing it again. She passed through them, taking another arrow and turning to fire again, hitting another guy.

But one caught up with her, putting his sword into Rea’s horse. The horse fell with a cry, throwing Rea off. Her bow fell out of her hand.

Rea’s body hurt from the impact of the fall, but she quickly managed to pull herself on her hands and reach for her bow. Just as she grabbed it, a black boot stepped on it. Rea looked up and a jade dragon mask looked down on her.

»Not so fast princess.« He said with a cold voice and then something hit Rea behind her head and she lost consciousness.

Elias was running in the forest, trying to find the tree log Rea was talking about. I should go back and help her. He gripped the necklace and Tivon tighter. I need to help her. He slipped down a hill and looked to his left, where he saw the moss covering the tree. That must be it.

Suddenly he heard someone running behind him. He didn’t think to look behind his back, he just moved the moss and hid himself with Tivon into the tree trunk. He tried to calm his breathing, as someone slipped down the hill.

Elias put a hand over his mouth, standing still as a rock. He could see a person moving in front of the log, looking for them. Don’t breathe, don’t breathe, don’t breathe. Elias’ vision started to blur. Just leave. The man turned around again and then left. Elias put down his hand and breathed.

He looked down at Tivon. He leaned his head to his chest to check if he was still breathing. A rock rolled off his shoulder when he heard Tivon breathe. Elias hugged him closer. He looked at the necklace in his hand. She sacrificed herself to save us. She did that to save us. Elias clenched the necklace and closed his eyes.

Why would you want to save me? After what I said to you. He knew that he would never be able to take back what he said. He moved the moss away and stepped out, looking around if the men were still close.

He moved towards the seashore as the sun rose upon him. He was still thinking about Rea’s sacrifice. Elias could only hope that he would have the chance to apologize to her.

Two of the masked men dressed in black entered a room with smoke-filled air. They bowed down in front of the desk.

»My lady we caught someone, but unfortunately we lost two of ours and one is wounded.«

Luana turned around, inhaling in her quellazaire. »Someone? There should be three.« She said with an angry voice.

The two men bowed down even more. »We are deeply sorry. Two of them managed to get away.«

»Don’t tell me that it was Elias and the boy.« She sighed.

»We are sorry, my lady.«

»Bring her in.« She said sharply.

One of them opened the door and the third person pushed an unconscious Rea on the ground, her hair loosened, hands tied together.

The Green Woman stood up and walked in front of the table. She inhaled in the quellazaire and let out a puff.

»You won’t fit in my house.« She smiled viciously. »But that doesn’t mean I can’t have a little fun with you.«

Chapter Text

Tivon’s head was a mess. The last thing he could remember was that they were running away, and something had hit his head. He touched where it hurt. There wasn't a big wound, but it felt to Tivon like half of his head was missing. And for some reason, one side of his body was in pain. They must've fallen when he was unconscious.

All he did remember was seeing Rea on the side of the cliff for some reason.

He leaned on his hands and looked around himself. They weren't in a forest anymore. They were on a shore, looking at the sea. Elias was sitting beside him, his arms crossed on his knees, looking at the sea, lost in his thoughts. His coat was folded beside him. He noticed Tivon moving.

»Tivon?«

»What happened?« Asked Tivon and looked around to see where Rea was.

»A rock hit your head-«

»Where's Rea?« Interrupted Tivon.

Elias’ muscles tightened. He looked down. »They got her.«

»What?!«

But she was hanging over a cliff. He looked at Elias intensely, trying to find an answer to his sad face. And you just watched.

»She sacrificed her-«

»You let her get captured.« Said Tivon quietly.

Elias looked at him. »What?!«

»She was leaning over a cliff and you just watched. You were still pissed off because of what she said to you! You let her hang there and you ran away like a coward.«

Elias stood up. »N-no. What are you talking about? I saved her. She ran into the army by herself.«

»Why would she even do that?« Tivon was on his feet. Moving hurt his head, but he ignored the pain.

»She did that to save us. She sacrificed herself for us!« Screamed Elias in distress. He could see that Tivon was angry.

»She was right.« Said Tivon coldly. »You really are just a fernty!«

Elias’ eyes widened. He couldn't believe what he was hearing. Tivon would never.

»Fine.« He said, turned around and started leaving.

Tivon was shaking. From anger or fear, he didn't know.

His legs gave in, and he sat down in the sand. What's wrong with you Tivon? Rea is gone and now you pushed him away too. He looked down on Elias’ coat beside him. There was a moon necklace on it. Rea’s necklace.

Tivon had given her that necklace for her birthday. It was a promise. A promise that they will trust each other till their deaths. She wouldn't just give it to anyone. It was too dear to her heart to give it to someone else.

He grabbed it and looked at it. He could hear Rea’s voice inside of his head. Trust him, he’s telling the truth. Tivon buried his head in his knees. What am I doing? I lost Rea and now I lost him.

He took Elias’ coat and hugged it tight to his chest. Why did I yell at him? Why am I so reckless? He looked up at the sea.

On the left side of the shore, Elias was sitting and looking at the sea at his feet. Elias. He didn't leave. Tivon was on his feet in a moment. He went towards him.

Elias was drawing his finger through the sand. Alone. Just like I always was. He guessed that he was meant to be like this. He was meant to be alone.

In the corner of his eye, he saw Tivon sat beside him. They sat there in silence. Tivon looking at the sun setting and Elias looking down at the sand.

Tivon finally broke the silence. »A boy told me to tell you that he's sorry.« Elias stopped drawing in the sand. »He said that he's just stressed and anxious because so many things happened, bad and good. And he recently lost a childhood friend.« Tivon's voice was shaking. »And maybe he's scared because he doesn't want to lose anyone else, especially a particular tall boy with mesmerizing eyes that you could look at for eternity.«

And then there was silence, only a brief sound of the waves crashing on the shore.

Elias laughed quietly. »You know someone told me something like that too.« He looked at the horizon. »The boy never had anyone, he was always alone. He was always surrounded by bad people. He didn’t know any better. And when he met this boy, his world changed. He showed him that the world can be beautiful and most important... He taught him how to love and be loved.«

»That boy must be really amazing.« Blushed Tivon.

»He is... He is the best.« Smiled Elias.

Tivon covered Elias’ shoulders with his coat and sat closer to him. They watched the sun set low.

»We're going to find her.« Said Elias. »I promise.«

Tivon smiled and nodded.

A ship was sailing on the sea. Elias smiled. »And I might just know how.«

They were standing in the forest looking down on a town. Tivon knew this town. It wasn't the kingdom's favourite. A lot of criminal activities and illegal stuff happened there.

They peeked out from the trees.

»Luana has one pleasure house down there.« Elias pointed at a dark brown house with black window frames. »The Emerald Palace. I figured that because it was already night, Rea is in the upper rooms. I could climb up to the window, but you'll need to stay on in the street if someone might want to go into the side street by the house.«

Tivon nodded. »I could stay in the street in front of it.« He pointed at the street in front of The Emerald Palace.

»Okay.« Said Elias and stepped forward. Tivon grabbed his hand.

»Elias, I'm sorry I yelled at you earlier.«

»And I'm sorry for the other day. And I promise when we get Rea back that I'll apologize to her too.«

Tivon smiled happy and grateful that he didn’t lose him.

They headed down the hill into the city. They walked through darker and less cramped streets, finally coming to the main street right in front of the pleasure house. The street was busy with people and portable market stands. Elias and Tivon stopped. When Tivon looked at the pleasure house a shiver went down his spine. He pulled his bag closer.

»Do you need your mask?«

Elias put down his swords. »I think it'll be better if I don't. They might recognize me either way.«

He tried to head out when he suddenly stopped. A royal carriage stopped in front of the house. Out of it stepped Luana, thanking the carriage man in an ironic way.

»What the hell is she doing in a royal army carriage?«

»Nothing good, I supposed.« Said Tivon.

He could feel his body starting to shake while looking at The Green Woman.

Luana entered the house and the carriage drove away. Elias looked at Tivon.

»Try to stay hidden. I'll try to be quick.«

Tivon nodded and Elias sneaked through to the dark alleyway by the house.

Elias was looking up to see which room was lit up. The fourth window on the third floor was lit up so Elias started climbing up. When he reached the third floor, he sat on the windowsill, right at the edge of the window. He looked in and to his relief, Rea was sitting in the middle of the room, tied up to a chair. She's alive.

The door suddenly opened, and three masked men and Luana burst in. Elias had to move even more to the edge for them not to see him.

»Hello sweety.« She said with a rusty voice, fanning herself. »I'm The Green Woman.«

»I know who you are.« Said Rea her angry eyes fixed on her.

She smiled. »It's nice that my words spreads around quickly.«

Suddenly she looked at Rea coldly. »Where are they?«

»Even if I knew I wouldn't tell you.«

Luana closed her fan and raised Rea’s chin with it. »Where are they?« She said slowly and coldly.

»Why do you even need them?«

The Green Woman started circling her, like a snake surrounding its pray. »You see Tivon killed my sister. My dear little sister. And you know how much it hurts to lose someone dear to you.« She stroke her over her shoulders. »And to top that Elias murdered my guards and sabotaged my pleasure house.«

»What's one house when you got a million of them?«

»Hmm, yeah, you're right, but The Jade Paradise was one of the best ones I had. Also, they took something.« She grabbed the chair and looked into Rea’s eyes. »My sister's necklace. I need it back. So, tell me, sweety. Where are they?«

»I don't know.« Said Rea sharply.

Before she knew it, a slap hit her cheek. Luana turned around.

»If I know Elias they are probably at sea.« She looked at one of the men. »Prepare my ship, bring her with us. We set sail in the morning.«

Elias listened to every word they said. We need to get the necklace back. We could trade it for Rea. Elias climbed down the house and ran to Tivon.

Rea looked at Luana, her cheek red. »You'll never find them.«

Luana turned around and smiled. »Oh marily, don't worry. They'll come to us.«

Chapter Text

Tivon didn’t quite like this plan. They were too exposed, the street was too cramped and with the royal army walking around, it really wasn’t to their advantage. But it was the only plan they could think of. So, it had to work.

Tivon looked around at the people that were on the street. Most of them were older men smuggling around and others were people with portable market stands, trying to sell whatever they had. Tivon moved more into the shadow. Please be quick Elias.

A woman with a stand cart with a music box on it, playing a song, came down the street and stopped by the pleasure house. Her stand was full of different kinds of herbs, rocks and flowers. She was wearing a big hat with a brown veil, covering her eyes.

Tivon could only see her black lips. Her lips were moving, but Tivon couldn’t hear what she was saying. He moved closer to the main street but still stayed in the shadow. He looked closer at her lips, trying to read what she was saying.

The sea... Black water... Tivon looked even closer. Lost antes... The cursed pirate... He didn’t notice Elias cross the street.

The words started ringing in his head. A voice of a woman. It screamed. A stab to the heart. And as the woman said those words, she looked at Tivon, her golden eyes peering through him.

»Tivon.« Tivon looked at Elias. »She’s alive, but we need to move quickly.«

Tivon looked at where the woman was standing, but there was no one there. »Where to?«

Elias grabbed his swords. »To the harbour.«

He started heading down the alleyway. Tivon once again looked to where the mysterious woman was standing.

»Tivon?«

Tivon turned to him. »Yeah, I’m coming.« When he caught up with him, he asked. »Rea is alive? Is she hurt?«

»Yeah, she’s alive and she didn’t look hurt. They are going to use her for a trade with us.«

»What do they want to trade?«

»Alieana’s necklace.« Said Elias.

Tivon stopped. »What? But Sabur has it.«

Elias turned around. »Yes and we’re going to steal it back.«

Tivon looked at him like he was out of his mind. »And how if I may ask, will we do that?«

Elias smiled. »We’re going to steal a ship.«

Where does he get these ideas? Thought Tivon as he was climbing up the rope of a smaller pirate ship. He looked up at Elias climbing in front of him.

»Do you just expect them to say yes?« Whispered Tivon.

Elias looked at him, his mask secured on his face. »They’ll be too scared to say no.«

»That won’t work.« Sighed Tivon.

He reached the end of the rope, and Elias pulled him on the ship. »Just leave it to me.«

They heard the laughter of the crew. Elias cut the rope behind them. Tivon took his dagger and nodded.

Elias climbed up to the quarter-deck, where the captain was standing, looking over a map he had spread on the railing. Elias sneaked behind him, putting a knife on his throat and pushed him to the railing, for the small crew, that was gathered for dinner, to see him.

»Gentlemans, we would like to borrow a ship.«

The crew was on their feet in no second.

»What do you think yer’re doing boy?« Said the captain.

Elias pushed the knife closer to his neck. »Shhh. I would be quiet if you don’t want to wake up in hell with no head.«

He stayed quiet.

»What are ya doin’ with our captain?« Asked one of the pirates.

»I just want to make a little deal.« Said Elias. »Let us use the ship and I’ll leave the captain and you alive.«

»Like we would believe ya.« Screamed one of the comrades.

The other one yelled. »It would be better for us to just give ya to the royal asses.«

»Well, then,« Said Elias calmly. »say goodbye to your captain.«

»Wait!« Cried the captain. »Y-you can have my ship.«

Elias smiled and slowly released the captain. »Remember. If you get any ideas we have our knives with us at all times.«

»We?«

Elias grabbed the helm. »Set sail.« He yelled.

Tivon started cutting off the ropes tied to the ship. Elias rolled the helm, and they set sail into the open sea. Tivon came up to the quarterdeck.

»How do you know they won’t betray us?«

»They won’t have time to. Besides, they are too scared to.«

Tivon looked at the crew. They didn’t even try to hide the fear on their faces. They were all shaking, avoiding Tivon’s and Elias’ looks.

»I hope you’re right.« Tivon sighed and leaned against the railing. Elias put down his mask and moved the ship more to the right. Tivon smiled. »You look like a captain.«

Elias tried to hide his blushing with a laugh. »As a kid, I always dreamt to be one.«

Tivon moved closer. »It suits you.« He looked into his blue eyes. »You’re just missing a hat.«

»Pfff. I don’t wear hats.«

Tivon stroked his hand on the helm. »Good.« He leaned to his ear and whispered. »I like you better without it.«

Elias grabbed the helm and turned the ship sharply to the right. Tivon almost fell, but Elias caught him, his hand over his waist. He was face to face with Tivon.

»Really?«

»Ay, ay captain.« Smiled Tivon.

Elias leaned closer.

»Hey!« Elias stopped. »If you steal my ship, don’t treat it like it’s just a piece of wood!« Screamed the captain.

Elias rolled his eyes and let go of Tivon. He fixed the helm and looked forward at the sea. He frowned. »These pirates are ruining everything.«

Tivon giggled.

»What?«

»Nothing.« Smiled Tivon.

He crossed his arms, leaned on the railing and looked at the dark sea.

»So, if you are a prince,« Asked Elias. »do you have your own personal knight?«

Tivon looked at him over his shoulder.

»You know, all the stories talk about princes having their knights.« He stuttered. »I’m just curious if it was real.«

»It’s true. But I never had one. The only one that looked after me was General Ivan, but he was never elevated to be my personal knight.«

»Oh.«

Tivon turned around and leaned on his elbows. »Do you want to be my knight?«

Elias’ face turned bright pink. »Huh?«

»You are great at fighting, an excellent protector. You are brave and loyal. Sure, you might have killed thousands of people, but I could arrange something.«

He stepped to Elias. »Can I have your sword?«

Elias took one behind his back and gave it to Tivon. He knelt in front of him.

Tivon touched one shoulder. »I Tivon, the prince of The Kingdom of Naydawin,« And then his other shoulder. »Make you, Elias, my knight.«

Elias stood up and smiled at him. Tivon had never seen someone's eyes shine so bright as Elias’ eyes did that night. They shone with love and pride.

Ivan was walking towards the king's room. Where the hell could they be? We’ve searched everywhere. He had black circles under his eyes and his walking was sloppy. He hadn’t slept in almost five days.

And that woman... She always disappears at night. Did she already find them and have them hostage somewhere? He bumped into the table with a vase in the hallway. He barely caught the vase before it would hit the ground. Come on Ivan, concentrate.

He breathed in and out. He shook his head to wake himself up. The king called you. You need to look presentable. I can’t fail again.

Ivan walked to the door and opened it. Urien didn’t care for the late hour. He was standing by the window, Ivan walked to him and bowed.

»You called me?«

»You still haven’t found them.« He said sharply.

Ivan was too tired to have this conversation. »I’m doing everything in my power to find them.«

»Obviously not enough. At this rate, that woman will find them before us.« He looked at him.

»What if we asked The Rose Sparrow for help?« Ivan didn’t know why he just said that. He didn’t fancy that idea. He didn’t trust this alliance.

»I already did send a messenger to them.« He looked back through the window. »They’re covering the sea.« He looked at Ivan, who was just barely standing.

»Go with your ship and set sail towards Bradfordshire.«

»Why?«

»The Green Woman has one of her most popular businesses there. She might have some leads to where they could be. If you’re lucky, maybe you’ll find them there.«

Ivan bowed. »I’ll set sail right away.«

»Find them quickly. My reputation and my kingdom are at stake. If you don’t find them, I could lose everything.«

»Of course, sir.«

Ivan turned and exited the room. It’s always mine with him. He sighed as he walked down the castle hallway to the harbour.

It’s like he doesn’t even care for his son's well-being. Or anyone's well-being for that matter. Something didn’t feel right to Ivan, but with how tired he was, he couldn’t connect the dots.

If he did, he might have prevented the cruel future.

Chapter Text

Elias let Tivon sleep until they reached The Rose Sparrows. Tivon was sitting beside the helm, leaning against it and sleeping. The night was still cold, but nothing felt better than a pleasant, salty breeze in Elias’ hair. The familiar wood under his hands, the smell of the sea. He hadn’t realized how much he missed the sea.

But he couldn’t relax yet. They still needed to save Rea. Elias had his eyes fixed on the horizon, trying to spot the black ship. And then he saw it. He steadied the helm and yelled down at the crew.

»Put out all the lanterns.«

He managed to wake up Tivon.

»Why?« Asked one of the pirates.

Elias looked down at them. »If you fools want to get blown up by The Rose Sparrow, then set a bonfire in the middle of the ship for all I care.«

They immediately started putting them out.

»And prepare me a boat.«

Elias started going down the stairs, where the crew was prepering the boat into the sea. Tivon grabbed his hand.

»Are you going alone?«

Elias nodded. »It’ll be better this way.«

Tivon looked down. »Yeah.«

Elias was surprised to hear Tivon allowing him to go on his own. Elias held his hand. »They won’t do anything to you. And I’ll make sure I’ll be quick.«

Tivon nodded, and just as Elias was about to leave, Tivon pulled his hand and the side of his coat. He pressed his lips against Elias’. Tivon slowly parted and looked down.

»Be careful.«

He looked up into his eyes. Elias smiled and nodded. He turned and went down the stairs to the boat. Before he jumped in, he turned to the captain.

»If you even dare to think to run away or touch him, I will find you and slowly cut off every single finger and if that won’t be enough.« His eyes peered through him, while the captain’s face turned white. »Well, I’ll let your imagination do the rest.«

Elias jumped in the boat, and they lowered it into the sea. As he was sailing towards The Rose Sparrow, he watched Tivon looking down at him, slowly disappearing into the darkness.

When he got near the ship, he was relieved that The Rose Sparrow was anchored. He tied his boat to the ship and climbed up at the back to where Sabur’s cabin was.

Every night Sabur came out of his cabin at two in the morning. Elias never knew why exactly, but it was always like that. He just hoped he wouldn’t change his schedule that night.

When Elias climbed to the windows, covered with curtains from the inside, Elias peeked through the corner to see if Sabur had gone out of the cabin. He waited a bit and then the door of his cabin opened, and Sabur came out. Elias didn’t think to stop. He turned to the windows, grabbed his lock picks and broke into the cabin.

Like normally it was dark and only one lantern was lit up. Elias grabbed it and started rummaging through Sabur’s stuff. Where could he have it? He looked through every drawer and every corner, but he couldn’t find it. Where the hell did you put it, Sabur?

He then turned to his table, there was a drawer under it. He squatted by it and tried to open it, but it was locked. Elias grabbed his lock picks and started doing his job.

It wasn’t a normal lock. If it was, Elias could’ve unlocked it in a second. But this one took more time and eventually, it gave in with a satisfying click.

Elias opened the drawer and there it was. Chrome Sphene. He took it out and put it in his inner coat pocket. He closed the drawer and locked it. He quickly turned around and suddenly heard the door open.

»Hello Elias.« Elias turned around. »Nice to see you here.« Said Sabur with a rusty voice. Sabur came closer and Elias grabbed his pistol and pointed it at him.

»Traitors.«

»Traitors?« Sabur smirked. »We’ve been working with The Kingdom of Naydawin for years Elias. Old friends. The stories were just for the people so they wouldn’t rebel against the kingdom.«

»Must’ve forgotten to share that information with me.« He was looking at Sabur with eyes as furious as a hungry wolf.

Sabur laughed and walked around the room, Elias pointing a gun at his head. Sabur looked at the tattoo on Elias’ wrist. »You still belong to me.«

»I belong to no one.«

Sabur looked at him with angry eyes and said slowly. »You belong to me.«

»You forced me to make a contract with you. You kidnap me from my parents and made me a murderer!« He yelled. »And if we’re already at this topic, would you like to tell me about selling boys to Luana?«

»That was in the past.« Calmly answered Sabur. »What are you doing with The Chrome Sphene?«

»None of your business.«

»I think it is. You’re stealing from me.« Said Sabur

»I was the one who stole it. I’m just borrowing it for something.«

Sabur put down his hat on the table. »Does it have to do with Tivon?«

»None of your business.« Said Elias slowly. Sabur came closer, so Elias cocked the gun. »Make another step and I’ll shoot.«

»You wouldn’t.«

Elias stepped closer. »Do you want to see it for yourself?«

»You can have The Chrome Sphene.« Sabur turned away. »Just get off my ship.«

»What?«

»Get off my ship before I change my mind and call the whole crew on you.«

»You’ll just let me leave?« Elias’ look was puzzled.

»Just this time Elias.« He looked over his shoulder. »But next time I cross paths with you, something will happen to you.« He turned back around. »Or to that boy.«

»You leave Tivon out of it. He had to go through a lot of things just because of you.«

»You let him live that night.« Smiled Sabur.

Elias pushed the gun at his chest. »Say that again and I blow you to bits.«

»Just leave before I change my mind.«

Elias stared at him, eyes fixed on him, contemplating if he should just shoot Sabur and put an end to this or leave. Finally, he lowered the gun.

»If you follow me, I won’t hesitate to burn down your ship and everyone on it.«

He walked towards the window.

»Don’t worry, I won’t.«

Elias put the gun back on his belt and climbed out the window and then down to his boat. As he was sailing to their ship, he was still thinking if it was a good idea to trust Sabur.

Something in him was telling him, yes, but it still felt weird. Sabur was planning something. But what? Elias didn’t know. But he would be ready for whatever he had planned.

When he reached their ship, they pulled him up, the captain's face still white as snow. Tivon ran down to him. »Did you get it?«

Elias just pointed at his coat and nodded. He just quickly went up to the quarterdeck and grabbed the helm. Tivon quietly followed him. One of the members of the crew lit up a lantern.

»Put that out!« Shouted Elias.

The pirate quickly put it out, his face covered in pure fear. Tivon turned to Elias, who moved the ship to the left, setting sail into the open sea.

»Did something happen?«

Elias didn’t look at him. He was looking at The Rose Sparrow. »No, everything went fine.«

»Are you sure?«

Elias finally looked at him. »Yeah.« He smiled.

»Okay.« Tivon turned away.

He knew that something was off. He never saw Elias like that. Elias was teriffied.

Ivan walked up to The Young Marry. It was the ship that was assigned to him when he became a general of the royal army. The first day he stepped on this ship, he was excited. He was proud and he knew that he would be proud too. He wished for him to be on that ship with him that day. But destiny had different plans for him. For them.

This night it wasn’t like that day. He wasn’t excited to be on the ship again. He wasn’t as proud as he was that day. And on top of all that, he was tired.

He didn’t know how long he would manage to stay on his feet before he collapsed. But he needed to stay awake. He needed to bear it just a little longer. He needed to find those kids. He promised himself that. He would find them before it would be too late.

Elias looked over his shoulders every other minute, to make sure that The Rose Sparrow wasn’t following them. The ship stayed behind them and when they were far enough, he allowed the crew to light up the lanterns.

He looked at Tivon, leaning against the railing, looking forward at the sea. I should tell him. He should know.

But he didn’t. Elias never did tell him. Maybe this was the mistake. A mistake that led to a disaster. That led to a loss. A mistake that Elias could never take back.

Chapter Text

The sun had already risen, but it was still dark and grey because of the clouds. Elias was still behind the helm, his eyes fixed on the horizon. When Tivon woke up, he went to him.

»Are you sure you don’t want to sleep?«

Elias looked at him and gently smiled. »It’s okay. I’ll manage.«

He looked back at the sea and Tivon followed his look.

»So what’s the plan now?« Asked Tivon.

»We’re going towards Bradfordshire.«

Tivon’s body shivered when he heard that name. »Why there?«

»I have a feeling that she’ll go there. It was already unusual that she left Bradfordshire in the first place. She never leaves that town.«

»You have a feeling?« Tivon sighed. »I trust you, but do you really think we’ll find them there?«

»If we’re lucky we’ll meet them at sea.« Elias looked at him. »I’ll go to their ship and trade Rea for the necklace. You’ll stay on the ship, hidden below deck. It’ll be better if she thinks you’re not here.« He looked back at the sea. »When we get Rea back, we get out of here immediately.«

»Where will we go?« Asked Tivon after a minute of silence.

»Anywhere.« He looked at him and smiled. »The sea will be our limit.«

Tivon smiled. He would like that. To spend his whole life with them, somewhere far away from home.

»And I think that will happen really fast.« He grabbed the helm firmly. Tivon looked to where he was looking. There was a ship with green sails, as small as an ant.

»Go below deck. Don’t come up, no matter what.«

Tivon nodded and before he left, he turned around and looked at Elias. »Be careful.« He sighed and smiled. »Don’t do anything stupid.«

»I won’t.« Smiled Elias.

Tivon slowly waved at him and disappeared down the stairs as Elias ordered the crew to set down the additional sails.

Elias grabbed the helm tightly. I have one chance. I promise I’ll get Rea back. I’ll get her back.

The ships were side by side, a board connecting them, for Elias to walk on. Elias adjusted his mask and walked towards Luana, standing by her personal army, fanning herself and smiling at Elias.

»Oh, hi marily. Already missed me?«

»Cut it out, Luana. I know what you want.« Said Elias sharply.

»Oh, really?« She closed her fan. »And what is that?«

Elias reached into his inner coat pocket and pulled out the necklace.

»Hmmm. Where's my jade boy?«

»He's not with me. And he is not yours.«

Luana squeezed her eyes, looking carefully at Elias’ face, even though he was wearing a mask. It felt to him like she could still see underneath it.

She nodded to one of her guards and he stepped forward to retrieve the necklace. Elias pulled it towards himself and passed the railing over to the sea.

»Not so quickly.« Said Elias. »Let's trade. Bring me Rea and you can have the necklace.«

Luana crossed her arms and considered it for a second.

She said. »Bring the girl.«

Two masked men disappeared below deck. When they returned, they were holding Rea each on one side. Her hands were tied together, and her cheek was swollen, but other than that she looked unhurt.

»Give me the necklace Elias.«

»Untie Rea and release her first, then you'll get the necklace.«

»Fine.«

She waved to them, and they untied Rea. She ran to the railings and  Elias walked towards Luana giving her the necklace.

»Glad that I can make deals with you marily.« She smiled. »But I never liked when you lied to me.« Elias’ froze. »And lately, all you do is lie.«

One of the masked men punched Elias, knocking his mask off. In shock, he turned around to see a black ship behind theirs, swallowing it in its dark shadow. What is The Rose Sparrow doing here?

»W-what?!«

»You see I have the power, Elias. Everyone works for me.«

She looked up at Sabur standing by the railing. She smiled and waved at him. »Hello, my marily.«

Sabur tilted his hat in a nod, and it was then that Elias finally noticed the colour of the feathers on his hat. A purple one for the alliance with The Kingdom of Naydawin and a green one for the alliance with The Green Woman. He then looked down at his ship. The captain was holding Tivon, a knife pressed to his neck.

»Tivon…«

He tried to run to him, but three men grabbed him and pulled him away. And two did the same to Rea.

»Tivon!« Screamed Elias, trying to free himself from their grip. The same tried Tivon, but the captain was holding him firmly.

»Let him go, Luana. Let him go!« He yelled at her, his voice for once filled with pure panic.

»Now Elias, tell me. Why would I do that?« Asked Luana with a vicious smile.

»Leave him and Rea and I'll do whatever you want.«

»Elias no!« Scream Tivon. The captain pulled him closer and put the knife closer. »Don't do it.« He said more quietly now.

»Please Luana, I'm begging you. I'll do anything.«

»Elias, no!«

Luana looked over her shoulder at Elias. »Anything?«

Elias looked down and sighed. »Anything. Just let them go.«

Luana looked at him and then turned back to Tivon and the captain. The crew had already come to The Green Women ship. Luana just smiled and nodded to the captain.

He gripped the knife and stabbed Tivon in the heart. Elias’ pupils narrowed. No.

Tivon forgot to breathe. He looked down, seeing the knife in him, in his heart. The captain pulled it out, letting the blood spill out like a waterfall. He calmly walked off the ship to Luana as Tivon fell.

No.

Elias couldn't move. His mind and body stopped working.

No.

»Tivon!« He cried.

Rea couldn't even let out a cry, tears just started pouring down her cheeks.

Luana smiled and nodded to Sabur. He moved his hand up.

»No!« Screamed Elias.

Sabur gave an order.

»Don't!« Screamed Elias, this time trying to free himself.

The cannons started blasting, destroying the little ship into a million pieces.

No. Elias could feel hot tears running down his cheeks. No. In just a few minutes, the ship was no more. There was only wood lying on the surface of the sea, smoke all around it. No...

He could still be alive. Elias felt the men loosen their grip, so he ran. He pushed them away and he ran. He jumped over the railings into the sea.

The masked man tried to follow, but Luana raised her hand, stopping them. »Let him try.«

Elias was swimming deeper into the sea, trying to find Tivon in the black water, surrounded by wood sinking deeper and deeper. He turned back to the surface and swam up to catch a breath.

»Tivon!« He screamed and dived back into the water.

I can still save him.

He looked around to find anything that might lead him to Tivon. A heavy piece of wood fell on him, but he managed to kick it away. He went back up to breathe. His breathing became more and more unstable. He was starting to panic.

No, no, no! He breathed in and dived back in.

He can't die. Even though he was underwater, his tears wouldn't stop pouring out. Please, don't let it end this way. The smoke from the cannons coloured the sea black and Elias couldn't see anymore. I can still save him.

His heart was racing, and he couldn't hold his breath any longer. He needed to go to the surface. Elias swam up, breathing heavily. The only thing he could do was scream.

So, he screamed. He screamed his lungs out for him.

Someone grabbed him from behind, pulling him on a boat. He tried to shake them off, but they didn’t let him.

»I can still save him. I can still-« The tears wouldn't stop pouring out. »Tivon!«

They pulled him into a boat and held him tightly, tying his hands behind his back. He couldn't fight anymore. His strength was leaving him.

They brought him on The Green Women ship. The rain started pouring down. They shoved Elias before Luana. He looked at her with eyes as furious as the devil himself.

She grabbed his chin. »Don't look at me like that. I did the same you did to me.«

Elias moved his head and looked away.

»Put them down in the cell and set sail to Ascot, to the pleasure house.«

Elias quickly looked at Rea. Her face was numb. He didn't know if it was tears or rain on her cheeks.

They grabbed them put them down and shoved them into separate cells, taking Elias’ swords and knives. When they left, Rea turned to Elias.

»Elias.« He didn't turn around. »Elias, he could still be a-alive.« Elias only briefly nodded away. »Is he really...«

She didn't want to say it. She didn't want to believe that could be possible. She looked at Elias’ back. He wasn't moving, but his hands were clenched, shaking.

Rea knew that if she looked him in the eyes they would be burning. Burning with anger.

He wasn't shaking because he was afraid. He was shaking in anger. They took his only weakness. They took his only anchor.

Chapter Text

Tivon was sinking.

The water was stifling the sound, but he could still hear the cannons firing, the wood falling into the sea, passing him, around him, sinking with him. His body felt heavy but at the same time lighter with every second that came.

He could still feel the knife in his heart, the sharp blade in his body. With every beat his heart made, made the sea redder around him. He didn't know why he was sinking; his body and mind were turning numb.

The world around him turned darker and colder, the sea was hugging him in its arms.

For a second, he could hear him. He thought he just imagined it. His voice. His soft voice. He wanted to hear it again. He wanted to hold him one last time. His soft hair, his smooth skin. He wanted to go home. He wanted to go to him. Tivon reached his hand to him, hoping that he would grab it, hold it and pull him in his arms.

But nobody grabbed his hand. Nobody came.

Tivon’s eyes were heavy, he was tired. He wanted to sleep. He wanted to rest. Tivon let his hand fall. He let the cold darkness take him, hug him in its embrace one last time.

The last thing he could hear was his name before he couldn't feel anything anymore before there was nothing anymore.

Not a sound, not a feel, not a smell.

Not even himself.

Chapter Text

Luana was standing by the railing as the dawn was coming. The rain had already stopped and the clouds began to part. Luana was smiling viciously.

»You seem to be in a rather good mood.«

She turned around to see Sabur walking towards her.

»Oh, marily, I couldn't be more happy.« Sabur stood beside her. »But I'm still a little disappointed with you. You made them steal Alieana's necklace. And they killed her.«

»I've sent them to get rid of shary. I didn't know they would kill her and get the necklace. That was never the plan.«

Luana turned to him examining every scar on his face. »I still don't know if I should trust you. Ever since you stop bringing me boys, you've slowly cut ties with me.« She leaned closer to him and stroked his hand that was resting on the ship’s railing. »Why is that?«

Sabur didn't say anything. He was just quietly, looking at the horizon. Finally, he said, »The witch is back.«

»Oh, come on Sabur, you know I don't believe that story.«

»You should.« He turned around and walked towards his cabin. »It's all true.«

»Just get me to Bradfordshire.«

Sabur tilted his hat and disappeared into the shadow of his cabin.

Luana looked back at the sea, opening her fan. She took Alieana’s necklace out of her pocket. I have avenged you my dear sister, but I'm not done yet. After I take care of some business in Bradfordshire, I'll go to my dear Elias and that girl. She smiled maliciously. I'll do everything they did to you and worse. They will regret everything they did.

Elias was sitting, his back turned away from Rea, hands chained. He managed to steady his breathing, but his body was still shaking. The rain had already stopped.

»Elias.«

Not now Rea. I... I can't.

»E-everything will be o-okay.« She stuttered quietly.

No, it won't. Elias knew he wouldn't ever be okay. Not anymore.

They heard the door open and one of the masked men came down and opened Elias’ cell. He wasn't Elias anymore. He again was The Masked man, The Grímur.

When the men leaned forward Elias knocked him out with his elbow, pushing him against the wooden column. He managed to grab a knife attached to the man’s belt, stabbing him in the stomach. When the man fell, Elias grabbed his keys and unchained his hands. He took his knives, pistol and swords and turned to the door.

»Elias don't!« Shouted Rea and he stopped. »D-don't.« Rea managed.

Elias threw the keys near her cell, close enough that she'll reach them, but far enough that he'll have enough time.

»Don't come out.« He said coldly and closed the door.

»W-what?«

Not even a second passed by when Rea heard pistols, swords slashing and banging of things against the ground.

No. Not things. Bodies.

Rea quickly moved to the bars trying to reach the keys with her chained hands behind her back. I need to stop him. She could hear the screams of the crew, so she reached further out of her cell.

When she finally felt them under her fingers, she grabbed them. Eventually, she managed to unlock her chains. She grabbed the keys and opened her cell, already running towards the door, preparing herself to see the worst.

When Elias opened the door and locked eyes with the first person he saw, he had only one thing on his mind. Blood.

And then the massacre started. Elias drew both of his swords, stabbing everyone who got in his way. More.

Three guys ran towards him, so Elias gripped the swords firmly and sliced through all of them, spilling the blood around the deck. One of the masked men approached him from behind. Elias grabbed his knife and threw it at him, stabbing him in the heart. He just missed a bullet coming for his head. More blood.

He stuck the sword through the man’s neck, sticking him on a mast. He grabbed his pistol and took down three guys. Elias’ expression was numb. There was only anger in his eyes.

Everyone who came in his way, he put down, either with a pistol, a sword or a knife. There were only two people left. A helmsman that Elias would leave to live and the Capitan. The person who killed Tivon.

When the captain saw him, he quickly reached for his gun, his hands shaking vigorously. Elias was quicker he shot him in the hand, causing the captain to drop the gun. Before the man could scream, Elias shot his foot. The captain fell on his knees. Elias slowly walked towards him, pistol still pointing at him.

»P-please, have m-mercy.«

Elias shot him in the shoulder. The man was screaming, yelling in agony. Tears started running out of his eyes.

»P-please. I'm s-sorry.« He cried. »I'm s-sorry.«

Elias put the pistol back on his belt. He moved his sword towards the wound on the shoulder.

»P-please, I have a w-wife.« He cried.

Elias didn't flinch. He pushed the sword slowly into his wound. The man screamed. Elias stopped for a second, letting the men breathe.

»P-p-please. She c-can't live w-without me.« He stuttered. »I w-want to see her a-again.«

Elias leaned closer. »You should’ve thought of that before you killed him.« He grabbed the man and pushed him against the railings. »Enjoy drowning.«

»N-no, please!«

Elias threw him overboard. That man deserved more pain, but slow drowning with all those wounds. It was enough for Elias.

He turned towards the helmsman, sitting in the corner of the railing, shaking in fear.

Elias looked down at him. »Set sail towards Bradfordshire.« He turned around, cleaning his sword in his coat. »If you get any ideas, I'll stick this sword down your throat.«

The man nodded and quickly grabbed the helm, turning the ship to the left.

Rea wasn't prepared to see what she did.

She had seen dead bodies before, one of them her aunt and then countless bodies that wounded soldiers brought back from the war. But what she saw that night was a massacre from one man.

Man, killed only by one single man. She had to grab the edge of the door, so as not to lose consciousness. Her stomach was twisting at the sight of bloodied bodies. The smell of blood in the air made her sick.

She tried to look away, being careful not to step on the bodies. She tried not to think of them as human beings. She didn’t want to think of them as anything. Rea quickly and quietly made her way to Elias.

She must’ve startled him, because as soon as she came behind him, he suddenly turned around, grabbing his pistol and pointing it at her head.

»Elias.« She tried to stay calm, even though Elias’ eyes looked at her furiously and had a gun pointed at her head. »Elias. Please, stop this.« She tried to reach for his gun.

Elias stepped closer. Rea didn’t move. »I know how you feel Elias.«

»How could you know?«

Rea was surprised to hear his voice breaking. He was forcing himself not to cry.

»I know.« She gently put her hands on Elias’. »I know how it feels to lose someone you love.«

Elias was shaking, he was starting to break. Rea carefully took his pistol and dropped it on the ground. Elias hugged her, tears pouring down his face. Rea hugged him back. She didn’t say anything. She couldn’t. There were no words left to say.

They stayed in each other's arms, trying to comfort each other as much as they could. The dawn was coming and, at that moment, no words were needed.

The crew of The Young Marry forced Ivan to go to sleep even though he said he didn’t need it and that he would be fine. He hadn’t even realized how tired he had been until he lay down in the bed. Not even the waves or the rain hadn’t woken him up.

But then a sudden knock on his cabin door woke him up. He needed a couple of seconds to realize where the knocking was coming from. He quickly put on his boots and grabbed his coat. When he opened the door, the morning sun almost blinded him. One of the young soldiers, probably just four years younger than Ivan himself, awkwardly bowed before him.

»I’m sorry general, for waking you up.« He looked at him. »We found something on the way to Bradfordshire.«

Ivan was just staring at him. He’s too young to be in an army.

»Umm, general? Are you okay?« Said the boy nervously.

Ivan snapped out of his mind. »Huh?«

»We’ve come across what we figured out was a destroyed ship. It had to happen recently. The smoke is still present.«

A ship. Might give us some leads to where they are. He looked at the boy, his look suddenly serious and fully awake.

»Prepare a boat, there could still be survivors.«

In a sudden moment, his heart started racing. Let’s hope that they weren’t on the ship. His body shivered at the thought of it. He really hoped he wouldn’t find Rea and Tivon there.

The crew prepared the boat and Ivan jumped in with three other soldiers and they lowered the boat into the sea. As they were sailing through the remains of the ship, moving every piece of wood away, to see if anybody got stuck underneath it, Ivan got worried.

There were no victims, no bodies. If there were any, they would already float to the surface. What is the meaning of this?

Suddenly Ivan noticed something floating on the water.

»Over there.« He pointed at it, and they moved the boat towards it.

Ivan took the soaking wet journal out of the water. It was covered in blood. He recognized it immediately. His heart dropped.

Tivon.

»Search every corner, every piece of wood!« He screamed.

They’ve searched and searched, but they couldn’t find him. Ivan only saw a bloodied knife on a floating piece of wood.

Ivan feared this would happen. He was preparing for this to come. He thought he was prepared. But as he looked down on Tivon’s bloodied journal, he broke. He wasn’t prepared. Tivon was dead and he couldn’t even find his body. The boy he knew since they were kids was gone.

Chapter Text

Ivan was sitting by a table in his cabin, lit only with one lantern. He didn't want the sun coming in. It bothered him. It bothered his tired eyes. He's really dead. Tivon is dead.

He felt tears forcing their way out. And he let them. I really am a useless general. I couldn’t even protect those kids.

He looked over to Tivon’s journal, now dry, but still covered in blood, the knife beside it. He took it and pulled the lantern closer. He slowly scrolled over it, smiling at the familiar sceneries and sketches.

I remember him drawing those. He laughed a little. He always had it with him, even when we were practising. He came to the pages that must have been drawn when he got kidnapped. No, not kidnapped. When he ran away. He was sure of it now. He was sure that Urien was lying to him.

He scrolled through, finding drawings of an island, he didn't know of. There were drawings of fruits and flowers he'd never seen before. And then sketches of The Masked man. Countless sketches of him.

Why him? He found sketches of swords and knives that must belong to The Masked man. He looked at the knife. It was the same as the sketches. Did he kill hi-?

A knock disturbed him. He quickly closed the journal and stood up.

The soldier bowed. »I'm sorry sir for disturbing you. But we need to make a plan and give the orders to the crew.«

Ivan nodded, his mind still puzzled by what he saw. »Yes, call for the meeting.«

The soldier bowed and exited the room, closing the door behind.

Ivan looked down at the journal, his hand still resting on it. I'll get down to this. I promise Tivon.

The Rose Sparrow embarked at Bradfordshire. Luana came to Sabur, who was hiding in the shadow of the mast.

»I couldn't thank you enough Sabur, my marily.« She stroked his face.

Sabur moved his head. »Don't call me that.«

»When are you going to forget that woman?« Frowned Luana and inhaled her cigarette.

Sabur looked at the city, trapped inside of a thick mist. »She will haunt me in death, just as she haunts me in my dreams.«

Luana only rolled her eyes. »You're no fun.« She walked to the board attached to the ship, going down the harbour. »But thank you anyway.«

»Wait.« Said Sabur behind her. Luana turned around with a playful smile. »I can bring you new boys.«

A big smile ran across Luana’s face. »Oh.« She approached him. »You want to make deals with me again?«

»You'll need them to recover The Jade Paradise.«

»How observing Sabur.« She puffed out. »I'm impressed.«

»The first group I'll give you for free.«

»How generous.« Smiled Luana.

Sabur rested his hand on the sword attached to his belt. »And I'll give you one soldier.«

»Oh, marily, you are flattering me.«

He looked at her. »Don't think of it too much. I expect great service from you.«

Luana reached her hand out. »And you shall receive it.«

They shook hands and Luana turned around with a big smile.

»See you later Sabur.«

She waved and disappeared into the mist of the city.

Sabur nodded to Nick and The Rose Sparrow set sail, to steal and kidnap new boys for The Green Woman.

The crew of The Young Marry was sitting by a round table, for once all quiet, each one of them stuck in their own mind, grieving over the loss of a prince. Finally, the youngest of them spoke up.

»We've managed to identify the ship.« Ivan looked up and nodded to him to continue talking.

»The Buccaneers, s-sir.« He stuttered.

»They were working with The Emerald Palace.« Said another.

»Emerald Palace...« Ivan looked up at them. »Is that the one in the Aramore? The pleasure house?«

»Yes, sir. It is run by a woman that hardly comes by-«

»The Green Woman.« Interrupted Ivan.

»Y-yes.« Said the soldier surprisingly.

»Set sail to Bradfordshire.« Nobody moved. Ivan looked at them. »Now!«

Some of them started exiting the room getting ready to prepare the ship for sailing, some stayed in the room. The young soldier asked. »Should we get the news of the prince’s death to the king and queen?«

Ivan stood up. »No.« Said Ivan sharply, looking down at the table, where a map was spread.

Everyone looked at him, surprised. Ivan looked up, realizing how sharp he must've sounded.

»He could still be alive.« He lied.

»But sir, he is definitely dead-«

»We didn't find the body!« Screamed Ivan, shutting everyone's mouth. »We can't go back without his body or real evidence that he is dead.«

»Yes, sir.«

»We need to get to Bradfordshire now.«

They all nodded and quickly exited the room. Ivan sat down on the chair. He knew that he should tell the kingdom about the death, but he couldn't trust Urien. If he finds out, he'll do something reckless. And I can still find Rea. If I couldn't save Tivon, I could still save Rea.

Elias and Rea were sitting down by the railings. Elias’ head was leaning against it, his tired mind troubled. Rea didn't have any other option, but to sit next to him. She didn't want to walk around the ship with all the bodies lying around. She didn't even dare to look behind her back.

Elias was thinking of him. He didn't want it to be true. He didn't want him gone. He blamed himself. He was at fault.

It was his reckless doing that caused Tivon to die. He should never trusted anyone. He should never let him go to The Jade Paradise. He should just leave him on that ship that night. To let him die alone? Would it make any difference if he did? If he never knew him.

Rea’s question interrupted Elias. »What are we going to do now?«

Elias opened his eyes. »We're going to Bradfordshire.« He clenched his fists. »I'm going to kill that woman.«

He thought that Rea would oppose him, but she only nodded quietly.

The sound of seagulls filled up the silence. She shouldn't see what I did, what I'm capable of. I shouldn't have yelled at her that night. He waited all this time to apologize to her. He needed to apologize.

»All those times you called me a fernty.« Rea looked at him. »You were right. I am no different from them. Even more, I'm worse than them. A reckless murderer.«

He reached into his shirt, pulling out the silver necklace. »But he changed me. He made me human.«

He let his hand down and sighed. »What I'm trying to say is that I'm sorry. Sorry for all those nights, and all the things I said. I'm sorry.«

»I'm sorry too. We were tired and anxious. It just slipped out of us.«

Elias nodded, but it still wasn't enough. Elias felt guilty. Why was Rea still here? There's only death where I go. She shouldn't be here.

»You don't need to come with me.« He cleared his throat. »I can find you someplace where you can stay and hide.«

»I'll help you.«

Elias looked at her surprised.

»I know how you feel and I want to help you.« She leaned her head on the railing. »I'm not a vindictive person, but I can't just look away from it. She took him away from me too. If not for anyone else, I'll do it for Tivon.«

She placed her hand on Elias’ and smiled.

»We will find justice for him and then I'll take this safe place you're talking about.«

Elias briefly smiled and that was enough for Rea. That little smile, that little spark of hope was enough for her.

She was sailing, a small boat slowly floating on a surface of a big sea. The music box was still playing the melody. Her black lips were humming the melody, lyrics in a language unknown to the people in Krens or even outside of Krens.

Her right hand was touching the water. The sea was calm, but it was sad. She could feel it. The sea was grieving. Grieving over a boy much too young to be lost in its embrace. Too young to be lying in the graveyard of the seabed.

As she sailed further down it, the sea coloured black, the pain getting stronger. The smell of gunpowder was still in the air. Her hand hit a floating piece of wood, and the melody stopped.

She opened her eyes, the sun lighting up her golden eyes. The sea was alive, and she could feel every inch of it, but there was something that you could not feel. An unbeating heart.

She smiled. »I found you.«

Chapter Text

Bradfordshire. Ever since Elias first set foot in this place, he promised himself he’d never come back again. Elias sighed as he watched the dark city drawing nearer. And yet here I am again. Let’s hope it is the last time.

When the ship embarked in Bradfordshire, Elias, to Rea’s surprise, let the helmsman live.

»Wouldn’t he tell the authorities?«

» There are no authorities in Bradfordshire.« Said Elias walking past her to get off the ship. »And I’m wanted either way. Wouldn’t make a difference.« Elias put on his mask.

»Oh.«

Rea quickened her pace to catch up with him, trying not to look at her feet at the graveyard of dead bodies. She didn’t want to get stuck in this town on her own.

Elias rushed through the dark, narrow streets like he had a time limit. Rea could barely catch up with him, trying not to bump into buildings and make wrong turns.

Eventually, Elias stopped in front of a door with a red mark on it. Elias opened it and they climbed up the stairs, helping Rea up into the room.

As Rea was looking around the humble room Elias said. »You should wait here. I’ll go talk to Luana alone.« He looked out of the window.

»Wait, didn’t we say we’re going to do it together?«

»I know, but when I thought it through, I figured you stay somewhere safe. I am going to kill her, but I might die doing it.«

»What are you talking about?«

Elias turned to her. »If we’re both there, she’ll kill us both. It’s better if it’s just me.«

»Elias-«

»There’s still a chance that she won’t. There’s a chance I’ll live.«

»I can’t just sit here and wait for you to die.« Said Rea with a worried voice.

Elias moved to the trapdoor. »If I don’t come back till night, find Violet. She’ll help you.«

Rea tried to stop him. »Elias!«

But he closed the door behind her. Men and their impulsive decisions. Rea sat down on the chair. He won’t like it if I follow him. I guess I must wait. Wait and hope that he’ll come back.

Elias was standing in the dark alleyway, looking at The Jade Paradise. The fire did quite a lot of damage, but it looked like that didn’t bother The Green Woman. The place was still in business, there were just a little less clients.

The street was still busy, and Elias had no problems crossing the street and disappearing into an alleyway by the pleasure house. He came across the window, or more to say a hole in the building, where Luana’s office once was, now only a destroyed room, everything burned down to ashes. Glad to know that my surprise worked.

He stepped in and walked to the door. He carefully opened it and peeked through it. The hallway was empty, so Elias entered it. The door in front of him was different from the others. It had a green mark on it.

Elias heard someone walking down the hallway, so he quickly sneaked into The Green Woman's office. He hid behind the closed doors. He slowly grabbed his knife as the door opened. As soon as he saw Luana, he pressed his knife against her neck.

Luana didn’t even flinch. »Hello Elias. Last time I remembered you should be sailing towards Ascot.«

»Made a quick turn to deal with you.«

»How many of them died?« Asked Luana with a cold voice.

»All.« Whispered Elias.

»I don’t know why I even asked.«

She tried to move, but Elias pulled her closer, moving the knife closer.

»I wouldn’t move if I were you.«

»What do you want Elias? I can’t just bring him back.« She said sharply. »And besides, there’s so many other pretty boys to catch. You should find a better one.«

Elias grabbed her and pushed her against the wall, knife still at her neck. »You took everything from me.«

»There’s always more to take.« Smiled Luana.

Elias slowly pushed the knife into her skin, red blood coming from it.

»You can’t kill me.« She said with a smile on her face, but Elias knew she was scared. He could hear it in her voice.

»You want to test that theory?« He pushed the knife closer.

»If I die, they’ll kill all jade boys.« Elias stopped. Luana smiled. »I know you want to save them.« Elias pulled the knife away, but he didn’t let her go. »My business is important. Well, it will be till I live. I don’t plan to give it to someone else.« She squeezed her eyes. »When I die, they’ll destroy all of my pleasure houses, every single boy with it.«

Elias pushed her more into the wall. »You wouldn’t dare to do that.«

»You want to test that theory?« Smiled Luana.

Elias loosened his grip. Luana started laughing.

»You are too predictable marily.« She pushed his hands away and started walking around the room. »I know that she’s with you.«

She opened a drawer, grabbed a cigarette and lit it up. »I don’t know where you are hiding her, but that won’t be a problem. I will find her.«

»Don’t touch her.« Said Elias coldly.

Luana looked at him, squeezing her eyes and examining him. »I won’t if you come with me.«

»What?«

»You said you would do anything.«

Elias walked to her once again pushing her towards the wall. »That was before you killed him.«

»And now it’s before I kill her and the boys.« She smiled. »Look. You become my jade boy and come with me, and I’ll leave everyone alone.«

»You’re lying.«

»This time I’m not.«

»And how would I know that?«

Lauan grabbed a paper on her desk and showed it to Elias. »Sign it and I won’t hurt them.«

Elias looked at the contract, his grip once again loosening. Luana smiled and leaned to his ear. »I promise.« She whispered.

Elias was looking at the words that he couldn’t read. It’s a trap. I can’t go through it again. It would kill me. He tried to hide the shaking of his body, as Luana sat down. The scars on his back started to hurt. He could feel every slit all over again. He wouldn’t want me to do it. Tivon wouldn’t let me.

» Let's say this Elias.« He looked at her. »I give you until morning. If you don’t come back, they die.«

Elias put the paper on the desk and quickly left the room, hearing Luana laughing behind him. He ran. He was trying to run away from her laughter stuck in his head. He could feel it crawling under his skin, her touch on his skin, the blade slicing his back. He ran. I can’t go through that again. Tivon wouldn’t let it.

But they will die. She will die. And it will be all because of me again. He ran until he came to the marked door. Tivon wouldn’t let me. He tried to catch his breath, leaning his head against the door. If Tivon was here, he wouldn’t let me. If he was here, he wouldn’t let me go through that again. If Tivon was here... But he is gone.

Elias felt like someone grabbed his heart. Tivon isn’t here anymore. You can’t do a thing about it. And he can’t stop you.

He didn’t know when he could feel again. It felt to him like a whole decade passed since he could last hear and feel. His nose filled up with a damp, but sweet air. Everything felt familiar. This is wrong.

Last time he could remember anything he was drowning. The last thing he could feel was blood running out of his body and coldness covering his body like a blanket. The last thing he remembered that he heard was his name. Tivon!

He suddenly opened his eyes, forcing his body to sit up. His breathing was uneven. He was gasping for air. Was it air? He felt a sharp pain on the left side of his chest. He unbuttoned his shirt, revealing a scar across his chest, where his heart was. Was?

He put his hand on it and to his surprise, he felt it beating. He was alive. Why was he alive? He should have been dead. He felt the blade enter his body that day, he heard all the explosions, and he felt the water entering his lungs. He remembered the darkness and then... nothing. He was dead.

Because of his panicking, he didn’t even get the chance to look around to see where he was. Tivon looked around the place. He found himself sitting on a plain bed in a small wooden room. The walls were covered in different dried flowers, some hanging from a ceiling by a rope. On the shelves were rocks of all colours, jars filled with leaves and herbs and bottles with various liquids. On a bedside table, there was his bag, Elias’ dagger on it. Where the hell am I?

He heard someone humming a song in the other room. He heard that song before. Tivon once heard it from a music box, but where and when, he couldn’t remember.

He took the dagger, holding it firmly behind his back. He followed the source of the humming. When he exited the room, he found himself outside, surrounded by a thick damp tropical forest. The room where he woke up was a little house and before Tivon, there was a wooden bridge, connecting a little wooden house with another bigger but similar one. The humming of a woman’s voice was coming from it. Tivon followed it, slowly uncovering the fabric covering the room.

When he moved it, the humming stopped. There was no one in the room. Tivon quietly stepped in, looking around the room. There was a fireplace in the middle of it, on it a pot with a sweet-smelling liquid. Like the other room, this one was also decorated with shelves and dried plants hanging from the ceiling.

»Hello Tivon.«

Tivon tripped on his feet falling, dropping his dagger. He quickly grabbed it and turned around, holding the dagger before him with both hands.

There was a woman in a brown patched dress standing in front of him. Her long curly hair was loosened. She had long black nails, and her brown skin, dark as a coffee was covered in tattoos. She was looking at him with shining golden eyes. Her black lips moved into a big smile.

»You won’t need that.« Said the witch with a strong accent. A witch Tivon saw that night in front of The Emerald Palace.

Chapter Text

»Who are you?« Asked Tivon, looking up at the witch.

»You don’t know me.« She squatted down to him and Tivon moved the knife closer to her. »You could only recognize me.« She gently put her hand on Tivon’s. »You won’t need that.«

Tivon slowly lowered the blade. »You are that woman who was standing in front of The Emerald Palace.«

She slowly nodded.

»You were saying weird stuff. For some reason, I could hear you.« Tivon’s voice was starting to shake, as did his body. »A stab to the heart.« He looked her in the eyes. »You were cursing me!?«

The woman looked offended. »I was not cursing you, I was trying to warn you.«

Tivon’s breathing was rapidly becoming more hysteric. »How could you know? H-how could you know I was going to d-die?«

Die... But he was alive. Tivon put his hand on his heart. It was pounding.

»Am I dead?«

The woman laughed. »You are not dead.« She put her hand on his shoulder. »You need to calm down-«

»I can’t be alive. I-I remember dying. I remember t-the blade.«

»You did die, but I brought you back.«

Tivon nodded off. »N-no that can’t be. It’s not possible.«

The woman suddenly put her hand over his chest and Tivon’s heart stopped beating. She leaned forward looking into his panicked eyes.

»I brought you back.« She twisted her hand and Tivon could feel his heart twisting. »And I can easily snap that string.«

She put her hand down and Tivon’s heart started beating again. The woman stood up. »But I’m not going to do that.«

»Y-you’re a w-witch.«

She walked to one of her shelves and took a jar of dried leaves. »Took you long enough.«

»No, that can’t be. Witches don’t exist.« His hand was still on his chest, feeling his heart racing.

The woman put the leaves into the pot. She looked at him. »I could stop your heart again if that will make you believe.«

»Then why did you bring me back to life? Just kill me now.«

»I won’t kill you.« She stirred the liquid in the pot. »I need you. And you need to save Rea.«

»And Elias.« Added Tivon without even thinking about it.

»Why save him? It was his knife that killed you.«

»But it wasn’t him that killed me.« Said Tivon angrily.

She looked at him. »Are you sure about that?«

»Yes.«

She sighed. »Everything you had to go through was because of him.«

Tivon stood up. »No. He helped me go through everything that I had to go through.«

»The curse says otherwise.« She said as she poured the liquid into a cup.

»What?!«

She pushed the cup into his hand. »Drink it.«

»No.«

She looked at him, her golden eyes glowing. »I said drink it. It’s not poisoned.«

Tivon took the cup but still hesitated. »What is it?«

»It’s for calming you down.« She sat down. »And for the heart to heal.«

Tivon still didn’t drink it.

»I won’t poison you.« She said roughly. »I didn’t use almost all of my powers to bring you back.«

Tivon sat down and drank the liquid. He almost spat it out because of its bitter taste. »That’s disgusting.«

»I never said it was good.«

Tivon put down the cup. He was surprised that he already felt more relaxed just after one sip. He put the hand on his heart. He still couldn’t believe he was alive.

»It wasn’t easy.« Tivon looked at her. »And it wasn’t cheap.«

»You bargained for my life?«

She peered at him. »How do you think magic works?«

»Just like you did before? With hands?« Tivon made a little gesture with his hand.

She laughed. »Little things, yes. But bringing someone back to life. You need to make some deals.«

»With who?«

»Ghosts, other witches,« She stood up and looked at him. »And the other side.«

Tivon looked down at his cup. That didn’t settle okay with him. The woman turned to her jars. She grabbed a bag and started putting it in. To be alive because of one witch making deals with the other side. It felt weird to Tivon.

»Take your stuff we are leaving.«

»Why?«

She looked at him. »Don’t you want to save them?« Tivon nodded. »Then pack your things.« She smiled. »We’re sailing towards Bradfordshire.«

He should be back by now. Rea was sitting by the table, her head resting on it. She was looking through the window. The sky was getting darker, and Elias was still out there somewhere. Rea could only hope that he was still alive. I should go look for him.

The trapdoor suddenly opened, and Rea was on her feet in a second. Elias rushed in.

»Did you-«

Elias put down his mask. Rea thought she would see satisfaction on his face, but there was only fear.

»She’s still alive isn’t she?« Asked Rea and Elias nodded. »What happened?«

»She knows that you’re with me.« He leaned on the wall and looked out of the window. »And if we kill her, she will have all the boys killed.«

That didn’t sound good. Rea wanted revenge, but if that meant that millions of boys would die, then she didn’t want it.

She sat down and sighed. »What should we do now? If we don’t do anything or run away, she will find us.«

»I’ll surrender. She said if I do that she’ll leave you alone.« Rea looked at him. »I’ll become one of her jade boys.«

»What does that mean?«

Elias took a shaky breath. »I’ll be part of her pleasure house.«

Rea could see the cold sweat running down his face, his uneven breathing. He looked like he was about to pass out. He was afraid.

»It happened before didn’t it?« Asked Rea.

Elias nodded, avoiding her look, his body shaking uncontrollably.

»What did she do to you?«

Elias shook his head, his breathing shaky.

»Elias.« Rea stood up.

Elias looked at her, his look full of fear and pain. »Damage!«

Rea just barely caught him before he would fall.

»Elias you can’t go.« She sat him down.

»There’s no other way.«

»We’ll find another way. I don’t know what she did to you, but I can’t let her do it again.« Elias buried his face in his hands, nodding off. »Elias, something like that wouldn’t break a person like you, so it must’ve been inhuman. I’m not letting you go there.«

Elias took a big breath. »O-okay. I won’t go.«

Rea sat down and sighed. »We’ll find a way in the morning.«

»Yeah, in the morning.« Said Elias quietly. He looked at Rea. »You should rest.«

She smiled. »You too.«

Elias waited for Rea to fall asleep. He had no purpose for sleeping.

He had a plan. It wasn’t the best plan, but it was something. When Rea dozed off, he took a piece of paper, hoping that he would remember how to write words that Tivon taught him.

He quickly scribbled something on and left it on the table. He also left all his knives, swords, his pistol and the mask. He looked at Rea, who was peacefully sleeping.

»I’m sorry.« He whispered and disappeared through the trapdoor out of the apartment.

He rushed to The Jade Paradise. To his surprise, Luana was already standing in the ashes of her previous office. She turned around and smiled.

»Oh, I thought you wouldn’t come.« Three masked men entered the room. »I already had my army prepared to go find her.«

»You won’t hurt her if you have me, right?«

»I promise marily.«

The three men grabbed him and tied his hands behind his back. Elias didn’t resist.

»Glad to have you for myself again.«

Another person with an eye patch over his eye entered the room. Elias’ pupils narrowed when he saw Pit, standing beside Luana.

»What is he doing here?«

»He is my new personal guard. You know, because you killed the other ones.« She stroked Pit’s face. »He can have as many jade boys as he wants for himself.«

Elias tried to lunge at Pit, but the masked men stopped him. »How can you bring such a low-minded and vile piece of human being into this place.«

Elias wasn’t looking at Luana, his furious eyes were fixed on Pit.

Luana only laughed. She leaned to Elias’ ear and said.

»I like to bring chaos to their peaceful life.«

Elias tried to free himself from the grip. He wouldn’t let Pit be here. He must not be here. Luana waved her hand. »Take him down to the room.«

They quickly took him out of the room. Luana turned to Pit. »He really doesn’t like you. Why is that?«

»He wasn’t a guy who would share.«

Luana smiled. »Understandable.« She lit up a cigarette. »Go to the harbour and prepare my ship. After I have some little time with Elias we set sail.«

»To Ascot?«

»No.« She inhaled the cigarette. »Elias needs to think we’re going there.«

»Then where to?«

Luana smiled. »To The Kingdom of Naydawin. I got a new plan. We could still get some money from the king.«

Chapter Text

Rea woke up before dawn. The apartment was still dark, but she could still see that Elias was nowhere to be seen. She was on her feet in seconds. Rea noticed the swords and knives on the table. She picked up the mask. Why would he leave? She noticed a piece of paper on the table by the pistol.

She opened the folded paper. She had to look closely to make out the words and even then, she needed to read it three times to understand it. For what she could read from it, Elias gave her two choices. Save herself and go to a woman named Violet that lived up on the street or hide on The Green Woman ship with his weapons and help Elias with his so-called new plan.

She put the paper back on the table. This guy. She sat down. What should I do? He surrendered to that woman to save me; it would be wrong of me to go help him now. She buried her head in her arms. But I can’t leave him with her. She remembered his scared eyes and his shaking body. I have never seen a person this frightened. With every second she became more stressed. What should I do?

And then she heard a knock. It wasn’t on a trap door, it was coming from downstairs. Rea took the knife from the table and then slowly and quietly opened the trapdoor and went down the stairs. There was another knock.

Rea hid the knife behind her back and slowly put her hand on the handle. She opened the door prepared to pull the knife out if needed.

But she didn’t. The kind smile on the face of the old woman stopped her.

»Are you Violet?«

She happily nodded and stepped inside.

Rea closed the door. »Did Elias come to you before he went to Luana?«

She nodded as Rea walked her up the stairs and helped her through the trapdoor.

»Tivon told me about you when we were running away.«

Her eyes sparkled when Rea mentioned Tivon’s name.

»He told me such nice things about you.« Smiled Rea.

Violet grabbed her hands and smiled.

»It would be nice if he could be with us here.« Frowned Rea.

Violet looked at her confused. She doesn’t know. Rea held her hands. »Tivon... Tivon died.« She managed.

The sparkle in Violet’s eyes disappeared and she looked down.

»I’m sorry that I had to tell you this, should’ve anticipated that Elias wouldn’t tell you.«

Violet looked up, her expression worried.

»He’s okay. Well, he’s coping in his own way.« Rea looked up. »But he needs help. I know he doesn’t want me involved in this, but I need to help him.«

Violet nodded and removed the hood, she was wearing. Underneath she had a bow and an arrow quiver. She handed it to Rea. Rea took it and looked at the beautifully carved bow.

»You made this?«

Violet happily nodded.

»It’s beautiful, but I-I can’t just take it.«

Rea gave her back the bow, but Violet pushed it to her and smiled.

»Thank you.« Smiled Rea.

Violet put her hood back on.

»I’ll walk you to the doors. It’s too dangerous for you to be here. They might already know where I am. That puts you in danger too.«

Violet nodded and allowed Rea to help her to the door. Before she left Rea stopped her.

»Thank you again.« Violet turned around and bowed a little with a kind smile. »I hope I’ll be able to meet you again in the future.«

She gave her another smile with eyes glowing with happiness and kindness. She waved and left down the dark street.

Rea returned to the apartment. She grabbed a bag from a closet and put in Elias’ stuff. She put the arrow quiver and a bow over her back and headed outside. She tried to remember all the turns Elias and she made yesterday.

Eventually, she made it to the harbour. She quickly glanced over all the ships and then she spotted the ship with dark green sails. I really hope Elias thought this plan through. She fixed her ponytail and headed to the ship.

They took Elias into the room, he didn’t ever want to see or be in again. The room didn’t look like much. It was for most parts empty, without windows. There was only a chair and a cupboard on the right.

The man forcefully took off Elias’ coat and shirt. They sat Elias down and tied his hands behind his back. Elias was trying not to shake. He was forcing himself not to vomit.

One of the three masked men took a blindfold and covered Elias’ eyes, tying it firmly behind his head. Elias took a big shaky breath.

»Thank you boys.« Said Luana behind him.

Elias could hear them leave, closing the door behind them. And then he could feel a smile on Luana’s face. Shivers started crawling down his body.

»It’s been years since you were last here.«

She could see Elias’ body starting to shake. Luana came closer tilting his chin upwards.

»Don’t worry marily.« She leaned to his ear and whispered. »I’ll be gentle.«

She released him and turned to the drawers. »Unfortunately, we don’t have much time.« She opened it and took out a knife. »We’ll be sailing off to Ascot in two hours.«

Luana turned to him. »But it will do for now.«

You can do it, Elias, just don’t think about it. He flinched as Luana pressed a knife by his shoulder. »I see, we haven’t finished the painting yet.«

Stay strong. His heart was beating uncontrollably and the room started spinning. There’s a chance that Rea went to Violet, and you’ll need to do it on your own. Just bear with it until you get on the ship.

Luana sliced the skin on his back. She leaned to his ear. »You know you can scream.« She made another slice. Elias could feel blood dripping down from the wound. You can do it, Elias. You’re strong enough.

»You can beg. You know I don’t mind.« She pressed her lips to his ear and said slowly. »Marily.«

In the end, Elias wasn’t strong enough.

It broke him down just like it did that night. He thought that he had over the past. He thought Tivon helped him get through it. But no. He finally realized that he could not be healed. He was broken once again and this time he had no one to heal him.

The sun was already up when Tivon and the witch set sail. Tivon was looking at the little island disappearing behind them.

»You can ask me about it if you want.«

Tivon almost jumped when she saw her standing beside her.

»I don’t have any questions.« He lied.

»Your head is full of questions Tivon. Even if I were not a witch I could see it.«

Tivon sighed and leaned on the little ship’s railing. »Is that island yours?«

»It’s not mine, but it’s my home.«

»Doesn’t it get lonely?« Asked Tivon.

»No. I like to be alone. People bother me.« She sat down and grabbed a little bag she had on her belt.

Tivon turned around. »Do you have a name?«

»Cornelis.«

From the bag, she took out rocks. Tivon sat across her. She held the rocks in her hands and brought them to her lips. She whispered words Tivon didn’t understand.

»What are you doing?«

She let the rocks fall on the wood. She went across them with her hand, concentrating on them.

»Trying to see what will happen.«

Tivon looked at the rocks and then at her. »You see the future in rocks?«

Cornelis ignored him, carefully studying the rocks. »Three ships... The cursed sailor... The Grímur.«

»Elias?«

She looked up. »And death.«

»Death? Whose death?«

»Don’t know. But there is a lot of blood to be spilled.« She said as she was putting the rocks back into her bag.

»And what are we supposed to do with that prediction?«

Cornelis adjusted the bag back on her belt stood up to grab a bottle of the liquid and handed it to Tivon. »Hope that we can prevent it.«

»I’m not drinking that.«

»Well, if you want your heart to rot then don’t.« Tivon rolled his eyes and took the bottle. »You won’t have to drink it for the rest of your life. It’s just for now.«

Tivon looked at her angrily and then took a sip, almost vomiting it out.

»Glad that my medicine isn’t that disgusting.«

He handed it to Cornelis. She took it, looking down at Tivon with a confused look. »What medicine?«  

           
»Hyssop flowers.« Cornelis sat down. Tivon pointed at his cracked eye. »For this. I had an accident that cracked my eye and left a big scar on my back. The flowers help with the pain.«

Cornelis reached her hand to his eye, but Tivon grabbed her, holding it tightly away from his eye. »Don’t.« He said quietly, but coldly.

»I can heal it.« She said softly, her voice to Tivon's surprise sympathetic. Tivon looked up into her golden eyes.

»I can heal it.« She repeated. »I can fix the eye, make the scar disappear. I can make it normal again.«

She could. He could be normal again. He would look normal again. But do I really want that?

She tried to move the hand closer, but Tivon tightened the grip. »Don’t.«

Cornelis lowered her hand. Tivon looked away. »I don’t want to hide it. It makes me... Well, me.« He smiled to himself. »And he likes it. He made me realize that it is beautiful.«

Cornelis smiled as she saw him blushing. She thought that love was something that didn’t exist. She knew love only hurt people. But not him. He made her see that it still existed.

She then asked. »What about the pain?« Tivon turned to her. »I can heal the pain.«

Chapter Text

Rea waited for the last masked man to go off the ship. As she was watching them, she managed to figure out their working patterns.

Two men were given a task to bring barrels on the ship. As one took the barrel and brought it on the ship, the other one just came back down. Rea would sneak behind the last man who had to bring the barrel on.

When there was only one barrel left and the other men already left to see if there were any other things to take care of, Rea ran to it and hid behind the column by the barrel. When the man took the barrel, she sneaked behind him and as easy as that she was on the ship. Before that, she made sure that there were no other people on the ship.

She walked down the other stairs, being careful that the men didn’t see her. She hid behind a wooden column and when the man put down the last barrel and left, Rea hid behind them, sitting down by a little hole in the ship, from where she could see the harbour and the board where they would walk on to board the ship.

And then she waited.

She almost dozed off when she suddenly heard Luana yelling at one of her jade boys. Rea looked through the hole to see what had happened. Luana was just yelling at him because he had dropped her scarf on the ground.

Behind her, she saw Elias. Rea’s heart jumped when she saw that he was still alive. But he didn’t look well. Two men had to hold him, and it looked like he was unconscious. Even from afar, Rea could see the cold sweat running down his pale face. What did she do to you?

As soon as they boarded the ship it set sail. For now, the plan was working. They just needed to put Elias in the cell, and she’ll unchain him. But to Rea’s surprise, they brought him to the floor where she was.

»Chain him there.« Said Luana.

They brought him beside the barrels where Rea was hiding and chained him to the wall so that his hands were tied over his head. Luana grabbed his chin.

»He won’t be able to get anywhere.« She released his head and looked at the two men who brought him there. »You don’t need to look after him. He won’t be able to go anywhere.«

They bowed and disappeared on deck with Luana. Rea waited for a couple of minutes to make sure nobody came down and then she ran to Elias.

»Elias?« She whispered.

She didn’t want to touch him because she didn’t want to trigger anything in him.

»Elias.« She whispered a little bit louder that time.

He moved his head a little, letting out the slightest quiet sound.

»Elias. Oh, thank God you’re alive.«

Rea quickly looked up at his chained hands. There was no way she could unlock them without a key.

»D-don’t.«

Rea looked down. »What? Elias I need to get you out of these.«

»They’ll k-know.«

»And what else are we supposed to do?« Asked Rea hysterically.

»I-I don’t know yet, b-but I’ll figure something out. For now, you h-hide.«

»I can’t just stay behind those barrels and look at you in the state you’re in.«

Rea looked around the place, trying to find something or more likely trying to come up with something to get Elias unchained. She saw a bucket with fresh water. She took a cup beside it and ladled a cup of water. Rea leaned it against Elias’ lips and let him drink.

»Thank you.«

Rea just managed a brief smile and then she sat beside him.

»You need to hide behind t-the barrels.«

»If anyone gets here, I’ll hide. I’m not leaving you alone.«

She crossed her arms over her knees. Elias smiled briefly. »Stubborn princess.«

»You’re the one to talk, you’re half alive.«

Elias smirked. »But still alive.«

Luana was standing beside the helmsman as the sun was setting down. It wasn’t normal for her to be on deck while they were sailing. She wasn’t even the person who liked sailing in the first place. It was even weird for everyone on deck. They were constantly looking over at her like she’s gone mad. But her look was fixed on the horizon like she was waiting for something. Or someone.

»We’re sailing towards the kingdom, aren’t we?«

»Yes mam.«

»Good. We should meet them in no time.« She squeezed her eyes. A big smile ran over her face. »I guess the time has already come.«

She turned to the helmsman. »Sail towards them.«

The helmsman nodded as Luana went down the stairs. The helmsman looked over to where Luana was looking and there, he saw a black dot on the horizon. From this far it was almost impossible to recognize the ship, but he would always recognize that black ship, even if there was full darkness. He moved the helm, turning the ship a little to the left and sailed it towards The Rose Sparrow.

Rea was trying to come up with a plan, but no matter how hard she tried, there was no way they’d get out of there alive. She looked at Elias. His hands were beginning to swell and he still looked like he was passing out from time to time.

Suddenly they heard a cracking of a ship, but not their ship.

Elias moved his head up. »What was that?«

Rea moved to the walls of the ship and looked threw the crack.

»A black ship is beside us.«

»The Rose Sparrow.« Whispered Elias.

Rea turned to him. »What are they doing here?«

»I-I don’t know.«

Rea moved passed him. »I’ll figure it out.«

Elias moved, trying to stop her, forgetting that he was chained up. »Rea don’t! They’ll see you.«

Rea ignored him. She put down her bow and hid it behind the barrels and then opened one of the barrels. She pulled out a mask and black veil. Rea turned to Elias with a satisfying smile.

»That could do.«

Rea smirked, put on the mask and covered herself in a black veil. Before she went upstairs Elias stopped her.

»Hey.« Rea turned to him. »Be careful.«

Rea nodded and rushed up the stairs.

As soon as Rea stepped outside on the deck, Luana was standing by the railing, dressed in a new black dress with long sleeves. Her hair was for once a little less messy. She looked at Rea.

»Hey you, come here.«

That’s it. She knows. Rea slowly came to her, her heart pounding. Luana smiled.

»You’ll be walking around The Rose Sparrow. If there is anything suspicious, you tell me immediately.« She whispered.

Rea nodded and Luana turned to the other two masked men accompanied by Pit.

»Pit is the only one who can walk across the board. Only with his permission, you can go through.« They nodded and Luana smiled. »Now let’s go boys, I have a dinner to attend.«

They walked across the board onto The Rose Sparrow where Sabur was already waiting in the shadow. Pit stopped by the railings as did Rea and Luana walked to Sabur. He offered her his hand.

»Didn’t expect you to be here. Weren’t you going to Ascot?«

Luana took his hand and smiled. »Inside marily, inside.«

He nodded and accompanied her to his cabin. When the door closed the other two masked men stood by it.

Pit leaned on the railings, taking out his knife and started moving it in his hands. He looked at Rea. »Weren’t ya supposed to walk around?«

Rea lowered her voice as much as she could. »Yes, I’m on it.«

She moved on before Pit would become suspicious of her. Rea moved behind Sabur’s cabin, squatting down by the slightly open window. Sabur was just pouring wine into their cups as Luana lit up her cigarette.

»Tell me Luana, why aren’t you sailing towards Ascot?«

Luana smiled, her playful eyes watching Sabur. »He surrendered to me. He’s mine now.«

»Elias?« He sat down. »He is still mine.«

»Oh, Sabur stop it.«

»He still has the tattoo.« He said roughly.

»It’s just a tattoo Sabur, stop making up stories.« She inhaled her cigarette and reached into her sleeve. She pulled out a contract. »He is mine.« She put it back and looked Sabur in the eyes. »And after what I plan to do, you won’t need him anymore.«

Sabur leaned forward, listening carefully to what she was about to say. »And what is that plan?«

»I’m taking him to The Kingdom of Naydawin. I still promised them I’ll bring them the trio.«

»You only have him.«

Luana shrugged. »I don’t need all of them. The king only cares about Tivon and he is dead. I’ll bring him Elias and tell him that he killed Tivon. After that, I will get both of them, The King and The Queen, killed. They don’t have another heir and I’ll get the kingdom.«

Sabur laughed. »I don’t think that’s how it works.«

»Maybe in other kingdoms, but this one is different. If The King and Queen are in danger, they can give their kingdom to anyone they want, without anything to sign on.« She giggled. »I’ll just kill them, make it seem like Elias did it and act like they gave me the kingdom.«

»And you think that it’s as simple as that.«

Luana leaned closer. »Even easier marily.« She smiled. »We will be rich Sabur. Rich.«

Sabur smiled and grabbed his cup. He raised it up. »A toast to us.«

Luana grabbed her cup. »A toast to rich us.«

They drank up their wine and laughed.

Rea was shocked. She needed to get Elias out of her hands. She needed to warn the kingdom.

She quietly stood up and walked to the middle of the ship. Pit was still leaning on the railing. I need to get to him. She brushed her hand against her belt. The knife she took from Elias was still there. I need to get to Elias. Whatever it takes.

Chapter Text

»We can’t just walk on The Young Marry!« Said Tivon as Cornelis was walking towards the ship, boarded in the harbour.

»Cornelis!« Screamed Tivon behind her. »They will recognize me.«

Cornelis only looked over her shoulder and moved her veil attached to the hat. »Hide underneath it. They won’t see.«

From time to time Tivon forgot that she was a witch. He ran to her, and she hugged him over his shoulders with the veil, starting to whisper words Tivon didn’t understand. Together they walked on the ship without anybody noticing them.

»How does this even work?«

»Shhhh. They can hear us.« Whispered Cornelis.

Tivon shut his mouth. They walked below deck into the storage room. Cornelis took out some dried flowers and put them into a circle. She placed her hat down, uncovering them.

»They will see us.« Panicked Tivon.

»They won’t hear or see us if you stay in this circle.«

»I don’t understand you.«

She smirked. »Nobody understands witches.«

She sat down and leaned against the wooden column. Tivon sat down across her, leaning on to the wall of the ship.

»Are you sure they are sailing towards Bradfordshire?«

Cornelis nodded.

Suddenly someone rushed down the stairs. At first, it startled Tivon, but then he remembered that they couldn’t see them.

He looked over the wooden column. Ivan! His heart jumped when he saw a familiar face.

»You general.«

Tivon smiled and nodded, but the smile quickly faded away, when he saw Ivan’s face. He looked tired, not just tired. He looked like he was grieving over someone.

»He thinks I’m dead.«

He tried to step out of the circle, but Cornelis stopped him. »Don’t.«

»He needs to know I’m okay. He may do something-«

»I’ll find that Elias.« Said Ivan to himself. Tivon looked at him. »He’ll pay for killing him.«

»N-no it wasn’t him.«

Cornelis had to hold him firmly for Tivon to not step outside of the circle. »Tivon, you mustn’t step out of the circle.«

»He’ll kill him.« Cried Tivon.

»We’ll stop him before he does.« She sat him down. »I promise.«

Tivon pushed her away and hugged his knees. Cornelis was looking at Ivan. Ivan started walking back up the stairs.

»He’s not just grieving over you.« Said Cornelis quietly after a minute of silence.

»He lost someone important in a battle.« Added Tivon.

»By the hand of Sabur.«

Tivon looked up. »What?«

Cornelis slowly nodded. »He was the one who killed him. And Ivan is still waiting for revenge.« She leaned back on the wooden column. »But he mustn’t kill Sabur.« She added quietly.

She started humming the same song and Tivon noticed that she was fidgeting something in her hand. He recognized the symbol. It was the same symbol Elias and the rest of the crew of The Rose Sparrow had tattooed on their wrist.

»How come you have this? Elias has a tattoo of it.«

Cornelis frowned. »It’s not just a tattoo. It’s a curse.«

»A curse?«

Cornelis looked at him. »Yes, a curse. You see, Sabur was once a captain of a merchant ship. And one day he met a woman, a beautiful woman. And that woman found him beautiful. She fell in love with him in a moment. He hadn’t always had those scars on him.«

She looked down at the symbol and smiled. »She didn’t want much from him, only to help her find the lost antes... Lost boys. Boys who had no home, and no parents. She couldn’t give him anything, but his love. He promised her he would find and help all antes. He promised her his love and he received it back.«

She clenched the symbol in her hand. »But he betrayed her. He became greedy. He started selling the boys and he stopped giving her the only thing she wanted from him. He stopped loving her. He broke his promise. And when the promise is broken the sea will judge you for it. It killed his whole crew, but let him live, giving him the curse. The curse to sail the sea and help the antes, without the help of anyone. But Sabur ignored that. From that day on he sold every boy he crossed paths with, cursing his whole crew with it.«

She put the symbol in her pocket. »The one that kills Sabur, will have the same curse as he. That’s why Ivan mustn’t kill him.«

She leaned her head back and started humming the song. Tivon remembered the story, Elias told him, but it was not the same. Tivon realized now that Sabur made it so that he was the victim. He looked at Cornelis. He saw a tear running down her cheek.

»You are the woman in the story.« She nodded sadly, continuing to hum the song. »And the song you’re singing?«

»We all have something that reminds us of someone. It is either a painful or a beautiful memory.«

Tivon reached into his inner pocket where he had a wood carving of a bird that Elias gave him.

»And what is this song to you?« Asked Tivon.

»Both.«

Tivon could understand that. He could understand the pain she was feeling. He hugged his knees. The curse will fall on to the one who kills Sabur. Elias would kill him. Elias talked about killing him. Elias would kill him. He looked up to Cornelis.

»We need to stop Elias.«

Cornelis stopped humming and looked at him.

»We need to stop him before he gets to Sabur.«

Pit was fidgeting the knife in his hand as he saw one of the men wearing a mask waving at him to come closer. These useless jerks. He walked to him.

»What do ya need, don’t ya see-«

The men pressed the knife to his kidney.

»You will accompany me across the board and you’ll come with me below the deck.« Said the woman’s voice.

»Who are y-ya?«

Rea leaned closer and whispered. »If you don’t obey me, I’ll stick that knife into your kidney. Now turn around and walk.«

Pit turned around and started walking. »Yer that woman.«

Rea pressed the knife closer. »Shhhh, just walk.«

He shut his mouth and walked over to their ship and down to where Elias was.

Elias looked up. »Rea?«

Rea pushed Pit against the wall and pinned his shirt up against the wall with the knife. She took the keys from him and removed her mask.

She looked him dead into his eyes. »If you move even an inch I won’t hesitate to kill you.«

Rea turned to Elias. She came to him and unchained him. She quickly grabbed Elias’ stuff and her bow behind the barrels and gave it to Elias.

»What are you doing Rea?«

»They’re sailing towards the kingdom. They’ll bring all the blame on you.« She looked him in the eyes. »Luana will kill The King and Queen and take the kingdom for herself, blaming you for their deaths.«

»W-what?«

As they were talking Pit slowly reached for the knife. He carefully pulled it out and quietly approached Rea from behind, holding the knife firmly in his hand.

Elias looked down. »But how could she even-« He looked up. »Rea look ou-«

But Rea had already grabbed her bow and arrow, turning to Pit, the arrow pointed straight to his head.

»Drop the knife or I will make a hole into your head.« She said coldly.

Pit dropped the knife.

»Good boy.« She smiled and pointed the arrow to his leg and let go. The arrow hit his leg and before Pit could scream, she covered his mouth.

»Shhhh. We don’t want anyone here to know.« She leaned to his leg and snapped the arrow. »Now listen carefully. You will bring me the messenger bird and you won’t tell anyone about it. If you do, next time I won’t aim for your leg.«

Tears were running down his cheeks. He nodded and Rea released him. He quickly went up the stairs, trying to hide his limping leg.

Elias looked at Rea in shock. »What was that?«

»Negotiation.« Smiled Rea.

She came to him to help him.

Elias smiled. »Remind me to never negotiate with you... Ever.«

Rea laughed. »I will.« She took a piece of paper and started writing on it.

»Well, he deserves it. For everything he did to Tivon.«

»Tivon?« She looked at him. »What did he do to him?« Her look was suddenly serious.

»Too much.« Said Elias as he put on his swords and pistol.

»That low piece of shit.«

He suddenly ran down the stairs, struggling to hold down the bird in his hands. Rea stood up and took it from him. »Thank you. Elias make sure he doesn’t get anywhere.«

Elias stood up. Rea was glad that his face wasn’t pale anymore and that he looked better than before. She rolled the piece of paper and put it on the bird. She then turned to Elias and handed him the bird.

»Hold that for a moment.«

Rea turned to Pit. His face turned white in an instant. »You will bring the bird outside and let it go. And if anybody sees you...« She just smiled. »Understood?«

Pit nodded scaredy.

»Oh, and one thing.« She punched him as hard as she could. »This is for everything you did to Tivon.«

She handed him the bird with a smile. He looked at her with terrified eyes and took the bird. He quickly disappeared before Rea could punch him again. Rea turned to Elias.

»Now we wait.«

Pit released the bird into the skies, looking at it as it flew away. His face was beginning to swell. He tried to hide his leg and the blood running down the leg. He was afraid someone might see it. He was afraid of Rea, but he was even more afraid of what they might do to him. Luana must not know.

Pit was standing by the railing. He saw Luana walk down the board to the ship. She didn’t even notice Pit. She drank too much wine, and she was heading straight to her cabin. Pit took that chance to run to The Rose Sparrow. He burst into Sabur’s cabin without knocking.

Sabur turned around, fixing his angry eyes on him.

»Sir,« Said Pit with a panic. »That woman is working with Elias.«

»What?! They’re working against me?«

»Yeah, and she forced me to let out the messenger bird to the kingdom. If it gets to them, they will be here in a day.«

Sabur hit the table. »I knew I couldn’t trust her.«

»Should I tell-«

»No!« His voice echoed through the room. »We’ll surprise them. Don’t do anything yet.« He looked at Pit. »In the morning.«

Pit nodded and exited the room before Sabur could punish him too.

Little did they know that they had been talking about two different women.

Chapter Text

They couldn't know if it was already morning. The dark clouds had rolled over the sky when it was still night. The rain had started pouring down.

Elias and Rea had been waiting for the kingdom's reply and they had Pit watching from the stairs, for if someone should try to come down. He was too afraid to look at them. Rea bandaged his leg just enough so that he could walk and wouldn't bleed to death.

He allowed himself to quickly glance at her, but he quickly regretted it. She was looking at him with eyes full of fury. Pit quickly looked back, brushing his swollen cheek. What's wrong with these people? How long till Sabur saves me?

He didn't have to think twice before he heard loud footsteps on the deck above them.

Elias looked up from his knife. »What was that?«

Rea was on her feet. She looked at Pit. »What did you do?«

Pit just nervously smiled and ran up the stairs. When Elias and Rea ran to the stairs a body that had been shot in the head rolled down to them.

»What the hell is going on?« Asked Elias as the pistols started blazing.

The ship tilted to the right, causing Rea and Elias to fall. Elias looked at Rea. »We're under attack!«

Rea looked behind him. »Watch out!«

She grabbed Elias and pushed them to the barrels just as the cannon blasted into the ship. Elias and Rea looked through the hole in the ship. The ship that was attacking them was no other than The Rose Sparrow.

»Weren't they working together?« Asked Rea.

»Well, I thought so too.«

Rea pushed herself on her feet. »I will never understand pirates.«

Elias stood up and drew his swords out. He looked at Rea. »Are you ready?«

»Fighting against pirates and a powerful woman as my first battle?« She placed an arrow on her bow and looked at Elias with a smile. »I could never be ready for that.«

»Stay close to me.« He smiled.

They ran outside where the bloodshed was already taking place. There were The Green Women men fighting against The Rose Sparrow crew. It was complete chaos.

Elias glanced over his shoulder to see the black ship right behind them. It was hard for them to see because the rain was pouring down and the wind was blowing heavily.

»Elias!« Screamed Rea as she shot an arrow at the guy running towards Elias. »Don’t doze off.«

Elias nodded and then he saw something behind Rea, right on the horizon. Elias had to squeeze his eyes to block the rain from coming into his eyes. Rea looked to where he was looking. Something was approaching them. Rea recognized the ship sailing towards them.

»It’s The Young Marry.« She turned to Elias. »They got my message.«

»Are you sure? Isn’t it too early?« Elias blocked a sword swinging to his neck.

»Whoever it is they will help.«

She shot an arrow as Elias threw a knife at someone behind her back.

As they continued to fight both The Rose Sparrow and The Young Marry made their way closer to their ship. When the ship came close enough the crew started jumping down on Luana’s ship with ropes. Elias could see both Ivan and Sabur standing in the front of the ship both looked dead serious.

Suddenly Ivan locked eyes with Elias. Wait, aren’t they here to help us? As soon as Ivan saw him, his eyes flickered with anger. He grabbed the rope and dropped down on the ship. Elias gripped his swords firmly, preparing himself to meet him. When Ivan jumped on the ship, he took out his sword and ran towards Elias.

Elias blocked his attack. »I see you didn’t get our message.«

»Oh, the message was pretty clear.« He pushed him away. »Your knife covered with Tivon’s blood.«

He lunged at him. »You killed him!«

Elias just barely dodged the attack, having to cross his swords in front of him. »What?! I did not kill him!«

Ivan pushed the sword closer. »Like I would ever believe you!«

Elias pushed him away, causing him to fall. »It was not me!«

Ivan looked at him, eyes burning with hatred. »Who would believe a pirate like you!?«

He grabbed his sword, but before he could stand up Rea stepped in front of Elias pointing an arrow at Ivan.

»What are you doing Rea? Step away from the fernty!«

Rea’s eyes were fixed on him. »Leave Elias alone.«

»Oh, so you’ve betrayed your kingdom too.« He stood up, but Rea didn’t move.

»I haven’t betrayed anyone.« She lowered her bow. »He didn’t kill Tivon.«

»How can you believe him?« He yelled. »How can you believe a murderer?!«

Elias lunged at him. »I didn’t kill him!«

He pushed Ivan away with his elbows, his swords facing away. Rea ran to him and pulled him away from Ivan.

»Wait! Don’t hurt him.«

»Rea, he’ll kill me.«

Just as he said that someone came behind Rea, and Elias had to push her away to stab the person behind her. Rea drew her bow and shot someone by Elias in the leg. They just nodded to each other. They shouldn’t argue in the middle of the battle.

Elias looked to where Ivan was lying, but there was nobody there. Where is he? He heard someone yelling and running behind him. He turned and slit the men’s neck, letting the blood spill from his neck.

Don’t lose focus. You need to protect yourself and her. He quickly glanced at Rea. She just shot an arrow across the ships to one of The Rose Sparrow pirates. She’ll manage, smiled Elias and continued swinging his swords at the enemy.

Luana burst out of her cabin, her hair and makeup messy. She looked around her ship, people murdering each other.

»What the hell is happening here?« She yelled.

One of the members of the royal army ran towards her, drawing his sword in front of him. Luana froze on the spot. Just as he was about to stab her in the stomach, Pit pulled her away. He grabbed her hand, and he ran to hide underneath the stairs.

»Pit what is going on?«

It was only then that she saw the shaking of Pit’s body and his pale face.

»Pit!« She yelled.

»I-I don’t k-know.«

Someone noticed them hiding and started going towards them.

»Do something Pit.« But Pit was only looking at the man, unable to move, his hand holding a knife, shaking. »Pit!«

The man was getting closer, and Pit didn’t move. Luana had enough.

»Oh, give me that.« She took his knife and stabbed the man in the neck. The man dropped his sword and fell to the ground. Luana turned to Pit. »Useless.«

She walked off, stabbing everyone who got in her way. She needed to know who was responsible for this. And as she saw them, she knew they had something to do with this.

Elias and Rea were across the ship fighting her people. This time she would make sure she wouldn’t let them live.

When Elias pushed Ivan, he hit his head against the railing. I’m going to kill him. He was only thinking about killing Elias. He forced himself on his hands and looked up. I will kill him.

And then he saw him. The one man he promised he’ll get revenge on. The person he promised he’d kill. The man who killed his lover.

Sabur was standing on the front of the ship watching the fight take place. Ivan grabbed his sword, furious eyes fixed on him. He stood up and walked towards The Rose Sparrow.

Elias was surrounded by three people and for some reason one was from The Rose Sparrow, one from The Young Marry and one was Luana's man. I really make enemies out of everyone.

Elias swung his sword at him, stabbing him in the side. He let the sword go and as he turned around, he grabbed a knife and threw it into the other man’s head. Before the third one could comprehend what had just happened, Elias drew out his pistol and shot the third man in the heart. He put his pistol back onto his belt, looking at the man with the bullet in his heart falling before him.

Suddenly someone jumped on his back, knocking them both down. Elias turned around and just barely dogged a knife into his head. The man pulled the knife out and swung it in his head again.

Elias couldn’t push him off. The man was holding him down with his whole weight. This man was about to kill him. The man pulled the knife back out and aimed at it to Elias' head. He will kill me. The man swung it towards his head and Elias closed his eyes, prepared to die.

But nothing happened.

Elias opened his eyes. The man was staring at him, his look shocked. He suddenly fell on him, dropping the knife beside Elias. There was a dagger stuck into his back.

Elias’ pupils widened. His father's dagger. The dagger he gave to Tivon. He pushed the man off him, still looking at the dagger. What is this doing here? It sunk with Tivon.

He looked up to see where it came from. His heart stopped.

Tivon was standing on the other side of the ship. He opened his mouth, but nothing came out. Elias was speechless. Tivon awkwardly smiled, waving at him. Elias stood up, almost tripping onto his legs. He ran towards him.

»Tivon?«

When he came to him, he held his face. He could feel him. He could feel his soft skin underneath his fingers. He was real.

Tivon held his hands. Elias’ eyes started tearing up. His lips were shaking. »T-Tivon?«

Tivon smiled. Elias held his face and pulled him close, kissing him fervidly. He was there. He was alive. Tears started falling down his cheeks. Tivon pulled himself closer, deeper into the kiss. The rain was pouring down on them. It was pouring down on the lost hearts once again found.

When they parted Elias hugged him tightly. His body started to shake.

»H-how?« Was the only thing he could manage to say.

Tivon held him closer and whispered. »I’ll tell you later.« He looked at him. »First, we need to take care of the situation.«

He tried to go, but Elias pulled him back, kissing him again. He looked him in the eyes and ran his palm through Tivon’s scar. »You really are alive.«

Tivon smiled. »Yeah, I am.«

They heard Ivan scream so they both turned to where the scream was coming from. Sabur and Ivan were going at each other, Ivan full of anger and Sabur unchanged and unimpressed. Even though Sabur was winning Tivon said.

»Ivan mustn't kill Sabur.«

Elias gripped his sword. »Don't worry, I will.«

Tivon grabbed his hand. »No! You mustn't.«

»Why?«

Elias couldn't understand why he couldn't kill him. A lot of problems would be solved if he did.

»If you kill him, you'll be cursed.« He brushed his finger over Elias’ tattoo. »Remember that story you told me? It's true. He was cursed, but not by the witch. Sabur is cursed and if you kill him, you will be cursed too.« He tightened his grip. »So please don't. Don't kill Sabur.«

Elias nodded slowly. He grabbed a rope. He took his pistol and looked at Tivon. He smiled and fired the pistol making him fly to The Rose Sparrow.

Tivon smiled. Drama queen. He leaned over to the body and pulled out his dagger. I killed another one. He wiped the blood off his dagger. I should not think about it. Tivon looked up. I was given another life, I won't let this one go so easily.

Luana still couldn't figure out what was happening. Her head hurt like hell from drinking the previous night. He made me drunk on purpose. These had to be Sabur's doing. She gripped her knife and sliced through a member of the royal army. She was going to kill him.

And then in the corner of her eye, she saw a familiar short posture. She turned and her heart started fuming. Why is he alive? I saw him die. She started slowly walking towards him. I saw him get stabbed in the heart. Why?

She held her knife tightly. They're useless. If you want things to be done, you must do them on your own.

She started running towards him, but just as she almost stuck the knife into his back someone pushed her away, shoving an arrow into her sleeve, impaling her on the ship’s mast. Luana tried to pull out the arrow, but she couldn't. She looked at the one who shot at her.

»You.«

Rea didn't lower her bow. »Stay away from him.«

»Oh, I'm going to kill you.« She yelled as she tried to rip her sleeve from the arrow.

When Rea convinced herself that Luana wouldn’t be able to remove the arrow, she lowered her bow and turned to Tivon.

»You have some explaining to do.« Tivon just awkwardly smiled. »H-how are you alive?«

»Like you said, I'll have a lot of explaining to do.«

Rea just smiled, just glad that he was alive, no matter what the reason. She turned to Luana to see how much time she had. Luana had almost ripped her dress apart to free herself. Rea turned back to Tivon.

»I'll take care of Luana. You stay alive.« Tivon nodded and just as he was about to go, Rea pulled him into a hug. »Seriously. Don't die again.«

»I promise I won't.«

She looked him in the eyes, still holding his shoulder. She smiled gently and grabbed her bow again, just in time before Luana freed herself, ripping her sleeve.

She looked at her with fury. »I should've killed you the second they brought you to The Emerald Palace.«

Rea smiled. »Just as they say, Don't bring a woman on a ship. She'll bring bad luck.« She drew her bow. »You will only wish to get rid of me earlier.«

Luana grabbed a sword from the ground and launched at Rea.

Tivon looked at The Rose Sparrow. Ivan and Sabur were still fighting alone, because Elias got attacked by almost everyone on the ship. I need to help him. Tivon ran up to the quarterdeck where there was a rope that he could swing on to get to it.

As he was running up the stairs, someone grabbed his leg, pulling him back down. Tivon looked down at Pit, his hungry eyes looking at him.

»Hello shary.«

Tivon tried to kick him, but he was holding him down firmly.

»Don’t try to resist shary.«

He swung his knife towards his head. Tivon just barely dodged it. As Pit was trying to pull out the knife, Tivon slit his front with the dagger, kicking him away. He ran up the stairs where he grabbed the nearest knives lying around. He then hid behind the helm. Pit was slowly catching up to him, still dragging his wounded leg.

»Come out shary, don’t be shy.« He coughed out blood. »I w-won’t hurt ya.«

The rain had already stopped. Tivon closed his eyes and breathed in and out. He remembered when Elias was teaching him how to throw knives. When throwing knives, you first bring them in front of your eyes. Then when you lock the target, you throw the knife a little higher than you want it to go.

»Shaaary?«

Tivon breathed again and then stood up, his eyes still closed.

»There ya are.«

And then Tivon threw. The first one had to slice his arm. He heard him flinch, so he threw another one this time missing, but it made him take a step back. Tivon didn’t wait for Pit to catch up, he threw another one, hitting his leg, and causing Pit to fall. He started screaming. Tivon had only one dagger left. He threw it with all the power he could manage. As soon as he threw it, he opened his eyes. The dagger hit Pit in the shoulder, pinning him to the railing. That should do.

But Pit just started laughing, blood spilling out of his mouth.

»Oh, shary.« He coughed out blood and smiled.

He’s gone mad. Tivon took a step back.

Pit laughed. »Ya can't kill me.«

Tivon looked down. »I know.«

Pit was right. He couldn’t kill him. Even after all he did to him, he couldn’t. He looked up, locking eyes with Pit. »I can’t. But she can.«

Cornelis walked up the stairs behind Pit. She raised her hand, and Pit could feel his heart twisting. At first, it was slow, the pain getting more intense with every second. Pit started screaming.

Or was it laughter?

Cornelis twisted her hand, making the pain worse. Bloody tears started running out of Pit’s eyes, but he didn’t stop laughing. His angry eyes were fixed on Tivon.

»I c-can still hurt ya.« He slowly stood up, pulling the dagger out of the wood. Cornelis twisted her hand even more, making Pit wail. But he didn’t stop. He slowly started walking towards Tivon.

»I can still p-pin ya down, s-shary.«

Tivon froze on the spot. He thought he saw every horrible thing that this world could offer. But seeing Pit, walking towards him, bloodied, his heart twisting, with a big grin on his face. Tivon was terrified.

Pit was just a step away from him. »I can s-still strip off yer clothes.« He laughed and Tivon could now feel his breath on him. Pit leaned to his ear and whispered. »I can still make ya feel better shary.«

And then Cornelis clenched her fists and Pit’s heart stopped beating. He fell before Tivon. It was just then that Tivon realized his body was shaking and he’d been holding his breath.

He looked at Cornelis, her body was also shaking. She still had her hand clenched and raised. She looked terrified. Tivon knew that look.

The rays of the sun started coming down on them from behind the clouds.

Rea was looking right at Luana's angry eyes, but she could still see what was happening around her. Bodies were falling, blood flowed in streams and the heavy rain smothered the screams of the fighters. How did she get here?

Rea was never the one to fight, and even more, she hated getting into fights. And now she was in the middle of a bloodbath, fighting for herself, her childhood friend and a pirate. Things move on so quickly.

The rain slowly started to subside. She had her bow ready, but would she be able to shoot? She had probably killed some people in the past hour. Would it even make a difference if she killed another one?

Luana launched at her, knife in front of her. No. She can’t kill her. Rea dropped her bow and just as Luana was about to stab her, she dodged it, pushing her against the ship’s mast. She managed to slip the knife out of her hand, pinning her hand against the mast. Luana screamed in pain, but Rea wasn’t done. She grabbed the rope lying near it, and with it, she tied Luana firmly against the mast.

Luana laughed. »Pathetic girl. You just can’t kill me.«

Rea looked her in the eyes, her look slightly scaring Luana. »I know. It wasn’t my intention.« Rea smiled. »But I’ll make sure that you suffer till your last living day.«

Ivan knew that Sabur was strong and that just a few people could measure up to him. Ivan thought that he was strong enough for him to be able to defeat him. I need to find justice for him. He clenched his sword and lunged towards Sabur. I need to avenge him. He hated to see the pleasure on Sabur’s face. Sabur took too much pleasure in it for Ivan's liking.

»You are fighting with rage, general. Why the anger?« He asked as he managed to get him on the ground yet again.

Ivan spit out blood and looked at him. »Because you killed him.«

»I’ve killed countless people in my life, general.« He smiled. »One more solider won’t make a difference to me.«

Ivan lunged at him with everything he had left. »He was everything I had!«

Sabur only grabbed him by the coat and pushed him against the mast.

»You need to get used to losing things in your life.« He said roughly. »Even the ones you love the most.«

»Like y-you know how i-it is to love someone.«

Sabur laughed. »Oh, general, I knew love. It only brings you pain and sorrow.«

»That’s too b-bad.«

Ivan slipped out a knife he had hidden in his sleeve and slit Sabur across the face. Sabur dropped him down and stepped away.

»I will avenge him!«

Ivan stood up and ran towards him, but Elias pushed him away just in time. Sabur laughed and he stood up.

»Oh, Elias.« He started walking towards him, hands open, welcoming Elias back. »I’m glad that you realized for whom you’re working fo-«

Then he felt something sharp going through his chest. He looked down at the familiar sword. The sword he gave to Elias. He looked up, to meet his eyes.

»I’m sorry Tivon.« Whispered Elias with his eyes closed. He pulled out the sword.

Everything stopped at that moment. The wind, the rain, the sea. Rays of sun peered through the clouds. Everyone saw Elias stab the cursed captain. Everyone watched the curse getting passed on to him.

Sabur was the only one to smile. He was finally saved from the curse. And when Elias pulled out his sword and stepped away, he saw her.

She was standing there just like she did the first time he saw her. She was beautiful just as that day. Her golden eyes looked at him. He should’ve never lost her. He should’ve never broken that promise. He saw tears in her eyes. My love... I’m sorry.

A single tear fell down his cheek and then his body fell, his blood covering the black wood, painting it crimson red.

Chapter Text

Tivon was looking at the horizon, watching the royal army ships sailing towards them. The dark clouds had already dispersed, but it was still grey. Even the atmosphere was grey and suffocating. Things are going to be different now.

He didn't want to think of it. Tivon gripped the ship’s railing and closed his eyes. Their future slipped away. He looked back at the ships. But there are still things to be done.

»It looks like your parents are coming to.« Said Rea from behind. She walked to him and leaned on the railing. »Are you ready to talk to them?«

»I think I am.« Sighed Tivon.

They both watched them approach, the wind blowing through their hair.

»Rea?«

»Yeah?« She looked at him.

»Thank you for helping.« He leaned on the railing. »And I also want to tell you that you're strong and no matter what challenges you face in the future, you'll get through them.«

Rea smiled, but before she could say anything, someone coughed behind them. They turned around to see Ivan, bandaged up.

»Sorry if I'm disturbing something. I would like to apologize.« He suddenly went on his knees. »I'm sorry. Sorry for everything. Because of my anger, I was blind. I didn't know who to trust.« He clenched his fists. »But now I know who I should trust from the beginning.«

He stood up but didn't look them in the eyes. »I'm ready to accept any punishment, even giving up the general title.«

Ivan was ready for the future king to kill him on the spot. He wasn't scared. He deserved it.

But Tivon just hugged him.

»You don't need to be sorry for anything.« Said Tivon. »You’re still our friend.«

Rea hugged him too. Tears started running down Ivan's cheeks. He hugged his arms over both of them.

»You two grew up too quick.«

It felt to them like they were back in the days when Ivan wasn't a general yet, when Tivon hadn't had the accident and when Rea was still taller than both of them. It was a simpler time. A time when they were just kids. Kids ready to face the world.

And now they were standing in each other’s arms, all grown up, looking at the sea, ready to take on the world.

Cornelis was sitting by his dead body, ready to let him in the sea, to let him be free from the curse in the sea's embrace. She stroked his face. Did you have to break the promise? She closed his eyes.

I'm sorry. Cornelis kissed his forehead. My love. Two men helped carry him in a boat and they let the boat into the sea. As she was holding onto his hat, looking at the boat disappear into the big sea, she started humming the song. A tear ran down her cheek.

It would be the last time Cornelis would sing that song.

As the royal ships came to them, The King and Queen with the army behind them, boarded The Young Marry. Tivon was standing in front of them accompanied by Rea, Ivan and Elias in the back, leaning against the railing, his arms crossed.

Urien was supporting Gyla who had her hand on her now already big pregnant belly.

»What is the meaning of this?« Asked Urien without even greeting them. »The message said that it was urgent.«

»It was,« said Tivon calmly. »But you were late.«

»Don't test me, boy, you've run away from me twice already.«

»Oh, so I wasn't kidnapped the first time?«

»N-no, I didn't-«

Whispers started to spread amongst the royal army and the crew of The Young Marry.

»Father, would you like to tell everyone about how you were working with The Rose Sparrow, oh and how you made deals with The Green Woman.«

There were some gasps amongst them and the whispers grew louder.

»That's enough! You will not talk to The King like that.«

»You are no king!« Tivon raised his voice. »You betrayed your kingdom. You've committed treason against it. Everything you did was for your own good. You don't care about the people, you don't care about your kingdom. You only care about yourself!«

Urien stepped forward. »You won't talk about me like that. You can't just get rid of me.«

Tivon smiled. »As The King of The Kingdom of Naydawin I can.«

»What king? I am The King! And I never agreed to put you on the throne.« He pointed at Gyla. »And I already have an heir.«

»Are you sure that he is your son?«

Now everyone looked at Tivon shocked, even Rea and Ivan. Gyla held her pregnant belly and stepped back. She wasn't shocked, she was just scared. Urien turned to her.

»Gyla. He is lying.« She was just looking at him with her gentle eyes. »No, tell me he's lying.«

She only looked down and shook her head.

»You have no right to be the king anymore.« Said Tivon.

Urien looked at him, his eyes fuming. »You... You can't be king. You are useless, you are a cripple!«

Elias already straightened his posture, reaching for his swords.

»You're right. I can't be. I have things to take care of. I need to pay my depth. But she can.« He moved his hand towards Rea. She looked at him like he was out of his mind.

»S-she can't.« Stuttered Urien. »No. She can't. Rea has her own kingdom to take care of.«

»The kingdoms are already connected. She can rule them both.«

»You can't possibly do that.«

»I can.« Smiled Tivon.

Urien pointed at her. »She can't. I woman can't possibly take care of two kingdoms all alone.«

»She will have help, she will find her Queen.«

Everyone gasped. Tivon quickly glanced at Rea. Her cheeks were bright red, but she was smiling.

Urien started shaking. It looked like he was going to explode any second now. He grabbed a sword from one of the soldiers and launched at Tivon.

»You disabled piece of s-«

Suddenly he felt a sword at his neck.

»Step away from him.« Said Elias coldly.

»Who are you to talk to me fernty?«

Elias pushed the sword closer and smiled. »Just The Kings personal knight, nothing more.«

»You've all gone out of your minds.« He looked at Ivan. »Ivan take the criminals away.«

Ivan didn't move, he just straightened his pose. »I take orders just from The King.«

Urien dropped the sword.

»Guards,« Said Ivan. »Take the traitor away.«

The guards grabbed him and started dragging him off the ship. He started laughing, hysterically.

»Fine. If you want it this way. Soon you'll come crawling back to me!« He yelled behind them.

Rea turned to Tivon. »You could've warned me.«

Tivon smiled. »I did.«

»How long did you know about your mom? Is the child really not his?«

»From the first day, I knew she was pregnant. Even before that, my father was so stubborn about me not leaving the castle that he never suspected her leaving. She loved to go to the nearby village.«

»Quite the observer.« Smiled Rea. She looked down at the royal army. »Do you really think I can do it?«

Tivon reached into his pocket and pulled out her necklace. He handed it to her. »I'm not just certain.« He looked at her green eyes. »I know you'll make a great Queen.«

She smiled. Ivan stepped to her and bowed down. »Orders, Your Majesty?«

»Take the ships back at the kingdom and take Luana with you. Make sure she doesn't get away. I'll be catching up with you later.«

»As you wish, Your Majesty.«

Rea smiled and winked at him. »You can call me Rea.« She whispered.

»Glad to be at your service Rea.«

Rea tilted her head and smiled.

Tivon was looking down from The Young Marry at The Rose Sparrow whose new captain was walking on it, dragging his hand against the railing.

Cornelis walked to him, stopping by his side. »The ship is his now.«

»What does it mean for him to have the curse now?«

Cornelis was silent for a moment and then she spoke. »He is bonded to the sea.«

Tivon’s heart jumped. »He can't go on land?«

»No, he can still go on land whenever he wants. The sea decides for how long.« She looked at Tivon. »The sea will guide him, it will protect him, it will be his messenger.«

She looked back down at Elias. »He is now obligated to look for the lost antes. The boys who have no home or parents. He needs to save them. If he fails, the sea will be his judge.«

Tivon nodded. It didn't sound too hard. Elias will be able to do it. Tivon was sure of it.

»What about me?«

»The depth must be paid. If it were just my powers, I would let you off without the pay.« She sighed. »But this was a deal with the other side.« She looked at him. »We both are bonded to the other side. We both are the slaves of it.« Cornelis looked at the setting sun. » Besides that, I will need you. There was a reason I brought you back.«

Tivon looked at her. »For what?«

»You'll help me save my sisters.« She gripped the ship’s railing. »The witches killed by hunters, the witches trapped and the ones who still live.«

Tivon was ready to hear that. He had a feeling there was something more to Cornelis just bringing him back to life so he could save Rea and Elias. He knew there wasn't a future where Elias and he could stay together.

»Why me?« He asked softly.

»I’m not yet sure, but it has to do something with your eye.«

Elias entered his cabin. Cornelis looked at Tivon. She knew sadness when she saw one.

»You'll still be able to see him. Just not everyday.«

»I know.« Sighed Tivon.

»Go to him.« Tivon looked at her. »We'll be parting ways in the morning.« She put her hand on his shoulder. »He still needs healing.«

She walked away towards Rea. Tivon looked down to Elias’ cabin. His heart started racing and he felt like it was his first days on The Rose Sparrow again. Scared of what might happen next but knowing that he'll be alright. Because he had him.

Chapter Text

Elias walked on the ship, his hand sliding on the ship’s railing. He had lived on this ship for years, but it always felt unfamiliar and unknown.

It was his ship now. He looked up at the helm where Nick was standing. He noticed him and just nodded with a smile. Some of the crew had survived, but Elias would still need to find more.

His back started to sting. He almost forgot about the new scars Luana made a few nights ago. He had to take care of them, and he needed to rest. He was tired.

Elias opened the door to his cabin which has been changed since he hasn’t been on the ship. All his stuff was gone, there was just a big bed there. Elias didn’t mind it. He sat on the edge of it, pulling off his shirt.

He heard a knock on the door and when he looked over his shoulder Tivon entered. Elias’ heart jumped when he saw him.

»Am I disturbing you?« Tivon asked carefully.

Elias only shook his head with a smile. Tivon sat beside him. Their hands were only an inch apart. The silence grew between them. Elias brushed his fingers against his and said. »I’m sorry.« Tivon looked at him. »I promised you I wouldn’t kill him and yet...«

Tivon held his hand. »There was no other way.«

Elias laughed. »Guess we’re both cursed now.«

»Yeah.« Smiled Tivon.

Tivon glanced at Elias’ back. He had new scars, now fully forming the shape of a feather.

»She hurt you again.«

»It’s nothing, I managed.« He moved his head away.

Tivon looked at him. »No, I know it’s not nothing.« He moved his head to him. »I know it hurts. So let me help.«

Elias closed his eyes and leaned his forehead to his. »Tivon I can’t just put all my problems on you.«

»I know, but you can still tell me. I will listen.«

Elias held his hand and opened it. He then turned around, his back facing towards Tivon. He let go of his hand. Tivon slowly pressed his hand against his back. Elias didn’t flinch. Tivon stroked his hand gently across the scars. He could still feel him shaking.

»Elias?«

He turned around to see tears in Tivon’s eyes. »I’m sorry I wasn’t there when you needed me.«

He leaned in, into a kiss. Elias pulled him closer, sinking deeper and deeper. He laid him down on the bed, sliding his hands over his arms to his hands. When they parted, they looked at each other’s eyes.

Tivon noticed tears in his eyes. He reached up his hand, wiping them away. Elias held it, kissing it gently.

»I’ve missed you so much.«

Tivon moved his head up. »Me too.«

He kissed him on his lips. Elias slid his hands to his hips, pulling off Tivon’s shirt. He glanced down and noticed the scar running across his chest where his heart was. Tivon's chest was steadily going up and down in sync with Elias’ breathing.

Elias carefully touched his scar, scared by the fact that he wouldn’t feel his heartbeat. But as soon as he made touch with his skin, he could feel it.

»I’m alive Elias.«

Elias’ scared eyes met his. He was alive. He was there with him. He smiled. Elias slowly kissed Tivon’s scar, moving his lips to his chest, his neck, his jaw and his ear.

»Don’t ever die like that again.« He whispered.

Tivon moved his head towards Elias’ lips. »I promise.«

He put his hands on his face and pulled him closer into the kiss. He was home once again.

The night fell on two lovers, both scared in their own way, allowing themself to heal each other. Safe in the hug of their bodies.

As they spent their night together a thought crossed Tivon’s mind. A thought that this would soon end, that they would have to part. Tivon quickly shoved that idea away. For now, he was here. His warm embrace mixed with his.

He was home and that was all that mattered.

The night was coming to an end, and the sun was already peaking from the horizon. Tivon opened his eyes, thinking that everything that had happened was just a dream. He turned around.

Tivon wasn’t dreaming. Elias was still there, sleeping tightly by his side, his face turned away from him. Tivon brushed his hand over his smooth silky hair, down his neck, gently stroking his back.

A shiver of cold morning air ran through him. He snuggled closer to Elias, closer to the warmth of his body, gently kissing his neck. Tivon closed his eyes, allowing himself to fall back to sleep.

Suddenly Elias turned around, pulling Tivon closer to his chest, hugging his big arms over him. He brushed his lips over his forehead.

»Tivon, you're real. I am not dreaming, am I? You really are alive.«

Tivon smiled and tilted his head upwards, brushing his lips against his. »Yeah, I am.«

Elias hugged him tighter, burying his head into Tivon’s chest.

»I don't want you to leave.« He sobbed. »I don’t know if I can do this on my own.«

Tivon cupped his head, looking at his blue eyes. »Elias, you can do it. If there is any person who can, it's you.« He hugged his arms around his neck. »I’ll always be thinking of you. And you can still see me whenever you want to.«

»How will I be able to find you?«

Tivon smiled. »The sea will guide you. Just like it did the first time, on that rainy night. The sea will help you find me again.«

»Then stay close to the shore.« He whispered.

»I will.«

He pressed his lips against him, one last time before they would need to go their own ways.

The Rose Sparrow anchored near the island where Cornelis had her humble home. They were standing on a sandy beach, the early morning sun shining on them. Cornelis was watching over the trio, her head covered with Sabur’s hat. Rea stepped to Tivon, hugging him tightly.

»You are always welcome home. You can visit me whenever you want. Even if you sneak in through the secret tunnels and wake me up in my sleep.«

Tivon laughed and hugged her tighter. »I’ll make sure I’ll scare you.«

Rea looked him in the eyes, still holding his arms. »Be careful, Tivon.«

»You too.«

She glanced over her shoulder at Elias, nodding to him. Elias started walking towards Tivon. When Rea looked back at Tivon, he winked at her. »If you need help, tell him.«

Rea nodded and moved back so that Elias could say goodbye to Tivon. Elias took his hands into his.

»Are you sure you can’t go with me?«

Tivon glanced at Cornelis and back at Elias. »You know I rather go with you.«

Elias held his hands tighter. »What is a King's Knight without his King near him to protect him?«

Tivon stepped closer. »He is still his Knight.« He smiled. »And this Knight is more than just a soldier to him. He is more than just a person.«

Elias giggled. »In that case.« He put something on Tivon’s finger. »A promise for us.«

Tivon looked down to a black ring on his finger, he looked over to Elias’ hand, where a matching one was resting on his finger.

»It’s beautiful.«

»You won’t forget me, right?« His blue eyes, shone with the morning light, were looking at him so gently.

»I could never forget you.«

Elias leaned his head against him. »Goodbye Tivon.«

»Goodbye.«

It was only then that Tivon realized how hard was it to say those words. He said them so slowly and they fell so heavily. Tivon had to swallow down his tears. Elias released his hands and smiled one last time before he turned around. He started walking towards Rea. When he reached her, they walked towards the boat.

Tivon turned to Cornelis. His legs were heavy, and it felt like his heart was going to explode out of his chest.

So, this was it? This is the last time I’ll see him, till who knows when. Tivon stopped. No. He turned around.

»Elias!« He screamed.

He ran to him and just as Elias turned around, he jumped into his arms, kissing him for the last time. Elias picked him up, holding him tightly.

In his kiss was the promise of years and the sweetness of waiting for them to see each other again. Elias put him down, hugging him tightly, burying his head into his shoulder. They started tearing up.

»I love you.« Said Elias.

Tivon smiled through the tears. »I love you too.«

Elias cupped his face, kissing him one last time.

Tivon held on to that moment, even after he let go. He held on to it when he watched them sail away. He held it on land and at sea. He held that moment at night and day. He held it in the memory of his eyes, his smile. He held on to it when he was thinking of him.

He held on to that moment till the day that they saw each other again.

The End

Chapter Text

I'm here just to announce this

The first chapter of the sequel Two Swords and a Dagger is published!!! You can found it by the title name A Crown of Daggers! I will post every friday and wednesday.

There is also a map of the setting on my instagram (_lilymo0_). And I also have a spotify playlist (https://open.spotify.com/playlist/3ssD81b4mPcBn7DyHR5BRw?si=d932eb5e925f46b6)