Kypertus had fallen far.

The oppressive sun high in the sky, showering everything in its wake with smoldering heat. Were it not for the merciful winds of the sea, the city would not stand. Built by the hands of giants tens of thousands of years prior, many had called the city home. Ancient man, Elves, even the Djinn of the Brass Empire once held a citadel here, but that was long destroyed. Now the grasping hands of freebooters and buccaneers held the port, ceding a tenuous loyalty to greater Alda'har as a whole. Supposedly the land was ruled by a king, but the barons held near autonomy across the land, letting the money from coastal trade fuel their campaigns of infighting as their subjects went about their daily lives.

Much of the buildings, particularly the spires and chambers of the wealthy, were made of whitestone gathered from the bosom of the coasts. However, most of what was left was made of timber and half beaten rock, even some flotsam wasn't uncommon. The weathered wood hammered together to make doors, tables or signs. It was a sign, in fact, that Rayth stared at from the bustling street. Idly he slid his coin pouch back into his jacket, giving the barest hint of a grin from the memory of swindling that heavyset lark Bungo. Everytime he ran into the thug, the brute got dumber and dumber.

It was only spare pocket change to keep him busy, expecting he would have to wait for hours to speak to this new captain who was looking to recruit anyone desperate enough and stupid enough to actually sail southwest of the Mahab Satrapy. It had been a daunting proposition even for Rayth, and he had been close to there before once in what seemed a previous life. But the mercenary had come to terms with it, so he tore his caramel eyes from the piece of flotsam that pointed him to the 'Docks of Madrid' and made his way through the crowd, keeping his dagger close and his eyes peeled for any loose pouches he might grab.

Traders, artisans, and men and women of all types and ages running errands filled the cobbled streets. A burly fellow bellowed in advertisement of his fresh catch of the day, breathy odor spilling over Rayth and nearly knocking the cutthroat to his knees with the smell. He powered through it, holding his nose and passing by an Elven privateer, nose in the air and keen eyed gaze watching the filthy masses like a powdered hawk. The pointy-ears' weren't seen in the best light by much of the common folk, but they brought wealth and held an air of dignity to them that encouraged respect.

Pushing aside an idiot that just stood in the middle of the street, Rayth entered the accompanying alleyway and decided to make for a shortcut. Two ragged men lay asleep or dead beside fallen heaps of debris in the shade between buildings, Rayth discovering one alive by virtue of scratching his ass as he murmured. Rayth didn't bother to check the other, stepping over what he had to step over as carts and laborers made a clatter across the way.

Minutes later, he had made it four blocks and found himself stepping onto the city's Dock section, which in truth held far more than where ships found berth. Statues of perched wyverns leaped into view, overlooking the streets with gazes that sometimes almost glimmered under their thick, wooden brows. Some whispered the Archmage of the city could watch the trade and happenings from these carvings, but Rayth doubted it. More like the rumor was a scare tactic to keep illicit dealings from being too overt under the sun. Turning his head, he found the place he looked for. A two storied tavern just two streets from the water, dubbed 'Tacklerock Tavern' by the owner.

Finally, a place to take a seat.

---

It had been early morning when The Peregrine docked after five days at sea, its crew proudly exhausted after nearly a week of grueling work. The merchant ship was almost a full day ahead of schedule and the Captain was so ecstatic that he paid the sorceress double what was agreed upon. He had thought he hired some lower to mid-ranking mage when she offered to take the job back in Taranis Port off the coastline of the Seven Cities, not a master worth the highest ranking the College had to offer. Akilah had actually just turned down the proposal to appoint her as a black robe after several years of travel and learning before she boarded his vessel.

The robe system in the college was used to categorize mages based on their power and knowledge. White robes are novices, yellow is for adepts who are then free to travel from the college walls with the master’s permission, red-robed mages were masters of their craft, and black was reserved for those who stood above all else. While many were surprised that she turned down the offer, those who knew her best among the masters had known her answer and simply felt compelled to try. They knew that she was a traveler to her core, going where ever the winds decided to take her and learning all that she could of the world. Accepting the black robe would have changed her current lifestyle and she simply wasn’t ready for that yet.

The vessel itself was pretty impressive for something outside of royal navies or larger more well-known merchant companies with its three masts and sturdy framing. The Peregrine and her crew had stood strong against the limits Akilah had pushed them to. They deserved the pride she saw in their faces as she departed. Captain Salamin had tried his best to keep her on his roster and when she refused he helped to carry her trunk to the nearest reputable lodging called the Tacklerock Tavern.

“It’s not a high society dining house but the food is good, the ale is strong, and the lodging is reasonably priced. If you pay extra, they’ll guarantee you some privacy” he told her as they had walked the short trip to the building. They were just opening up shop for breakfast when they arrived and the Captain put in a good word for her.

“Keep your wits about you here mistress mage. This port allows all walks of life to conduct their business here, some of which is business you are better off not knowing.” He warned her, genuinely concerned for her well-being. Akilah had thanked him for his concern for her and sent him along his way.

It was now nearly noon according to the periodic pops from time candles and she was finishing rearranging herself after a much-needed bath. Akilah had used the hours since early morning to bathe her salty sweaty body and recharge herself. Five days of nearly nonstop channeling a wind spell was a taxing job, even for her. Her stomach rumbled loudly as she detangled and manipulated her hair into a smooth braid once more while she sat on a stool in front of the mirror. It was time to eat.

The small room she occupied was plain but nicely done with dark wooden floors, matching colored wood trimming, and white plastered walls. It matched the rest of the tavern where they spent more of their coin on ornate decorations than parts of the building that required regular maintenance. It was practical and she liked it. The space itself only contained a single body bed, a small desk with a matching chair, a body-length mirror, and the stool she currently sat on outside of the adjoining washroom. Underneath her bare feet was an Izryian rug with an ornate pattern depicting a golden sun sitting within a royal blue sky, a touch of home which was probably why she was given the room to begin with.

Akilah stood, having finished her hair, to inspect herself in the mirror before crossing the rest of the room to slip into her shoes, arrange her cape across her bare shoulders, and collect her staff. Her stomach spoke again as she stepped out the door, but she couldn’t make a run for the stairs just yet. Bending towards the lock she whispered a spell into the mechanism as she turned the key, placing a ward on the device to help protect it from those who would try to pick the lock. She didn’t expect anyone who would be trying to steal from the rooms to be motivated enough to break down the heavy door if they failed to open it. Once satisfied, Akilah made her way down the hallway to the stairs, her staff filling the air with soft chimes as she walked.

The chimes caught the attention of the bartender, a plump older woman who looked like she handled her fair share of tavern brawls.

“I was wondering when you’d emerge again to put some food in that tiny frame of yours! How was the bathwater I sent up? Hot enough?” She asked, unapologetic of her questioning.

Akilah couldn’t help but smile as she took a seat at the currently empty bar and rested her staff against her chest. The woman spoke like her mother. “It was perfect, thank you. Just what I needed after the sail over. Is lunch being served yet?”

“Aye. Most of it is ready. We have a fish stew made from the first catch of the morning, freshly baked bread, meat pasties, and a mix of roasted vegetables. The cook is still working on desserts and will soon get started on the dinner roasts. If you want porridge, it may take them a bit to whip that up for you.”

“I’ll take a bit of everything you have ready now and the lightest mead you have available? No need to trouble your cooks with extra work.”

“Would you have it here at the bar or do you want a table?” The barkeep asked as she reached underneath the thick wooden counter to grab a metallic cup.

“I’ll seat myself at the booth in the corner?” Akilah motioned towards a table that she noticed earlier that sat facing both the door and the stairs to the second floor. It allowed her to eat in peace without being taken by surprise even though the tavern currently didn’t have many occupants. That was subject to change at any time.

“Help yourself. I’ll bring you food and drink in a few minutes.”

“Thank you” Akilah spoke to the woman’s back as she already turned to collect what the Izryian had asked for and probably take additional orders from people who started to walk through the door, starving after a hard morning’s work. Not wanting to lose the booth, Akilah rose from her perch on the stool to go make herself comfortable in the corner booth.

---

The merciless sun was torn from his shoulders as he stepped within the shade of the porch, the cool wind kissing his skin like a lost lover. But it paled in comparison to the smell of fresh cooked food that wafted out of the half lidded windows and ramshackle door. Rayth pulled the door open and stepped into the Tacklerock, seemingly just beginning its lunchhour. He must have been early. The patrons were outnumbered by the staff for once. The rakish rogue shrugged, figuring it just meant quicker service that way. Unshackling his baldric, he was about to take a seat when the door swung open behind him and near half a dozen street toughs stepped in, guffawing at what was likely a poor joke. One shouldered Rayth out of the way as the pack crashed through the doorway. Had they been on the street, Rayth would have bled the man out without the others even noticing he was wounded before it was too late, but as it were they were in a very enclosed space. He'd let it pass without conflict.

Scratching his 5 o'clock shadow, he lazily stalked over to the counter and planted himself down, keeping his sword and dagger close at hand in case of thieves. A portly but confident woman, likely the matron of the establishment, made her way over to him with a smirk. "What will it be, honey?" She asked him, hands on her hips. Rayth gave a lazy smirked back, his every moment like a lounging panther, as if he was merely saving his energy to use it when it counted.

"Anything but fish. I've had enough fish the last week. I'll take a spirit too, whatever you recommend. I trust you." He remarked with a wink.

"Oh you flatter me, but you're far too young and skinny. Might want to try your luck with someone else. Maybe that cute little thing over there." The matronly woman pointed to the corner of the common room and gave him a look, before wiping her hands and going into the back to fetch the food. Rayth glanced over his shoulder to where she had indicated, and he blinked. She hadn't been kidding. Resplendent in swathed robes and bedlah pants that hugged her figure delectably, the very pretty woman in question ate gingerly. Briefly, it registered in his mind she was either a mage or an initiate of some sort, and he nearly took the older woman up on her advice. It was a rare sight to see a beautiful woman sitting alone in a city such as this. But usually there were reasons for those outliers, and so he decided to just keep to himself. It was likely better for both them.

He placed a hand on the side of his neck and rubbed, patiently waiting for his food and easing the tightness from his muscles, still stiff from the brawl at Moonie's two nights ago. That was, until his keen ears caught a gruff voice lift in the air.

"How'd you like some company, girl? A real man'd lighten your day up, I'd say."

Rayth snorted, recognizing the voice as one of the ruffians that had come bumbling in off the street. Ever curious, he peeked behind his shoulder again and realized it was a bit more than he had expected. It was not one, but all five of the brutes standing around the woman's table, smiling like jackals before a fresh kill. One gave a lewd gesture with his fist and another offered his lap for her to sit on. Rayth didn't know why he was going to get involved, but he guessed he was a glutton for an adrenaline rush.

"Come on, darling. Don't look so lone-"

"By Eruvar, I had no idea you sat all the way over here," Rayth interjected, his head poking in amongst the crowd. As the men were suddenly flummoxed at a new voice cutting through their jeers, the cutthroat patted one of them on the head and smacked another playfully on the cheek. "Thank you gentlemen. All this ruckus helped me find her! You-" He wagged his finger at the woman, shaking his head as he sat on the booth beside her. "You scamper about taverns and expect me to look everywhere. Just because I arrived late, you're already eating without me..."

"Oi, who the fuck are you, mate?" A gap-toothed man demanded, reaching for a hidden weapon; likely a cudgel.

Rayth gave him a look like it was the most obvious thing in the world. "I'm her lover? Don't tell me you are too." He chortled and gave the woman a side eyed glance, and plucked a gold coin out of thin air, as if by magic and not the sleight of hand it was. "Thanks so much for keeping her company, fellows. Here's something for the trouble. She's a handful, believe me." Idly he flicked the gold royal it into the crowd of men, a few of them grabbing at it and the others looking more than a bit annoyed. Eventually they found it wasn't worth the trouble of hitting a married man at lunchtime for some foreign tail, so they dispersed muttering amongst themselves.

"I figured," Rayth began quietly, "we could both benefit by having a non-violent meal together, rather than a violent one that would get everyone kicked out of the tavern. Do you agree?"

---

Minka had just returned to the bar from serving Akilah when a boisterous group of men erupted into the tavern. The mage and the innkeeper had a proper introduction this time around since the younger woman was unsure how long her stay would be at the tavern and figured she would enjoy being on friendlier terms with the keeper, especially if she found herself in and out of the port often. The men who came in were brawling types, ill-kept and inconsiderate of everyone around them… but easily offended. Taking a spoonful of soup, she gently blew on the hot liquid until it became a more tolerable temperature before placing the utensil in her mouth. The soup was really good.

The questionable men were all over the place. One barreled through a man getting ready to sit at the bar, another stole a mug out of another man’s hand as he went to take a drink, and a third slapped the rump of a poor waitress who had been cleaning a table nearby. The sound of the strike rang clear across the room and the poor girl practically ran to the kitchen behind the bar with tears glistening from her eyes. Akilah continued to eat but kept an eye on the men between mouthfuls. She was hoping that the men would seat themselves soon because the more they fooled around, the more likely they were to notice her and she was just too tired to want to deal with them.

As she started to take a bite of the meat pastie, the handsy hooligan took notice of her in the corner and backhanded the chests of some of his friends to bring their attention to her corner.

So much for that… she thought to herself as she picked up a napkin to clean grease from her lips. The liquified fat from beef had dripped onto the table as well and Akilah took the time to clean up her mess while the group stomped their way towards her. As they surrounded the table, the one who noticed her first took the seat to her left and the man who had shouldered his way past the bar rested his dirty brown boot on the booth seat to her right. That man leaned in close on his raised leg as he spoke, filling her nostrils with the smell of dirt, sweat, saltwater, and who knows what else.

“How’d you like some company, girl? A real man’d lighten your day up, I’m sure.”

Akilah sighed, she was exhausted from her long trip and unimpressed by the display. She really didn’t want to have to deal with these men. The one on her left patted his thigh, obviously inviting her to sit upon his trousers that were stained with gods knows what, and another of their troupe made a gesture towards her which told her exactly what was on his mind. They obviously misread her expression.

“Come on, darling. Don’t look so lon-“

“By Eruvar, I had no idea you had sat all the way over here.” A sixth body now joined her table. She recognized him as the man who had been shouldered at the bar. Now that he was closer, Akilah got a better look at his face as he taunted his way through the group of street thugs. He had a face of a heartbreaker and the charisma of a performer. It took little effort for him to spin a story to justify his intrusion.

“Thank you, gentlemen. All this ruckus helped me find her! You-“ Akilah actually smirked as the man wagged his finger at her and squeezed his way into the booth to sit to her right side. At the sound of his arrival, the original man that occupied the space had moved to face off the newcomer. “You scamper about taverns and expect me to look everywhere. Just because I arrived late, you’re already eating without me…” The gentleman’s face was a picture of perfect sorrow and she nearly laughed. With him this close she noticed the faint scar that started on the left side of his chin and followed a strong jawline.

“Ok, who the fuck are you, mate.” The elaborate gesturer spoke through gapped teeth, obviously unhappy with the turn of events, and reached towards an inner pocket of his leather vest for what was most likely a weapon.

“I’m her lover? Don’t tell me you are too?” Her savior laughed at his own joke and glanced her way as a gold coin materialized between his fingers. “Thanks so much for keeping her company, fellows. Here’s something for the trouble. She’s a handful, believe me.” Using his thumb, he flipped the coin into the group. Three of the men lost their focus on them as they scrambled after the coin and the remaining two proceeded to give the trickster a dirty look, debating whether or not she was worth the trouble. Eventually, they made their decision and turned away from her table, going with the rest of their friends towards a table on the opposite side of the room.

“I figured,” The gentleman next to her spoke softly, dropping the bravado now that the threat had moved on. “We could both benefit by having a non-violent meal together, rather than a violent one that would get everyone kicked out of the tavern. Do you agree?”

“I don’t think Minka would have kicked everyone out, but I would have definitely owed her more coin than what I’ll pay for in food and lodging to compensate for the damages.” As Akilah spoke she turned her body to face him, resting her elbow on the thick wooden table and using the palm of her hand to rest her left cheek on. “To whom am I indebted for this act of kindness?”

---

The mercenary grinned like a wolf, happy she was comfortable with the whole affair. Many would have been put off by the act, but she intrigued him with her smile. He gave a small, mocking wave to the departing men before he turned to her. Rayth had seen a multitude of beautiful women in his life, but she was what the poets might call ‘breathtaking,’ were he a more academic man.

“Indebted?” He asked playfully, his voice low and smooth. “I’ll have to keep that in mind. As for who I am, I go by many names, most of them unflattering. But you can call me Rayth.”

He faced her now as well, keeping his eyes only on hers. “Now that they’re gone, are you comfortable with me sitting here or would you prefer eating alone?” It was an honest question, but he gave a grin and shook his head, mirroring her stance. “No hard feelings, if so. Some women turn me down, but alas it’s always their loss.”

That was clearly a joke, at least.

“Or perhaps their gain? How many hearts have you broken with your boyish grin and smooth words?” Akilah was growing to like his humour and it didn’t hurt that he was pleasant to look at. “Anyways, you can sit with me if you’d like Rayth. I wouldn’t mind the company and it’s the least I can do for your act of chivalry. You can call me Akilah.”

Minka sashayed over to the two of them, placing down two cups of brandy. She had a knowing look in her eyes and gave a smile to Alikah. Balancing a tray, she placed down Rayth’s trencher and shook her head at the swordsman, though she tried to hide a smirk as she walked away. Rayth had ordered a second drink for himself, but he handed it to Alikah if she would take the offered mug.

“You’ve a way with words yourself, Akilah.” Rayth remarked with approval, taking a sip of his drink and keeping his eyes on hers, a glint of mischief in the brown orbs. “If I may ask, what brings a beautiful woman to the Tacklerock today? Looking for fortune in the city or just wanting to partake in the local cuisine?”

The mage smirked at the innkeeper as they exchanged glances during her arrival to bring Rayth his meal, but didn’t bother to tell the other woman otherwise. Let her think what she will. Lifting her face off her palm, she used her now free hand to take the mug that was extended to her and brought it up to her nose. It smelled stronger than what she had ordered previously, but she took a sip of the brandy anyway. If Akilah took it slow, she shouldn’t get too drunk off the beverage.

“I arrived this morning and was recommended this tavern as it was closest to the docks. I was told that the food was good, the ale was strong, and lodging wouldn’t hurt my coin purse. So far, they weren’t wrong.” She took another sip of the distilled wine. “I’m here looking for work. Something different than just… helping merchant companies or deep sea fisherman.”

“Interesting. I’m looking for work too, though something tells me I don’t have your skillset.” He said, pondering for a brief moment on if he should ask if she was really a sorceress or not. Truth be told, mages made him nervous and he didn’t want to ruin his enjoyment of her company. Then again, it might be the best time to get over his worries. “You know, tomorrow there’s supposed to be a recruitment for an expedition here. Something about sailing west and a promise of riches. It had me curious, so you might want to wait with me…” He shrugged, not entirely convinced himself but seeing where it took him. At that moment he decided to ask, looking her way to gauge her reaction. “What exactly do you do, Akilah?”

“I am a sorceress with the ability to manipulate the winds and weather, amongst other more general taught knowledge.” She met his brown eyes with her blue. “What is it you do, other than save women in taverns from the likes of no good ruffians? And why would you want to share a job with the promise of riches with me?” Akilah was curious. Most people would keep such information to themselves, especially the mages back at the college. They would want all the coin for themselves to spend it away on means to amplify their power. Akilah never was one for such things. They had their uses, but always seemed to turn out to be a handicap for the mage in the end.

So it was true, she was a spellslinger. Oddly, it didn’t put him off too much. He’d rather one be his friend than his enemy. “I figured you were. The robes, the staff, the quick wit…” He iterated, taking a swig of his mug, nearly draining it. “I slay beasts and people. Preferably in that order, but generally it’s switched.” He sounded world weary at that. “Usually for some lord or commander needing things done. Used to be a soldier so it’s what I know.” He explained with a sigh. Though to her question, he blinked, caught off guard. He had a hard time trusting people, but she was curious about him even after he saved her. Why did he save her, exactly?

Smiling, he nudged her with his shoulder. “Well, I figure one loner can help another.” He revealed, and his next words were spoken into his mug before he drank again. “Plus you’re cute.”

She returned his smile and took another swallow of brandy. Akilah never considered herself a loner given she just hadn’t wanted to stay in one place for too long. Was it her fault that no one had come into her life that was willing to travel with her? Possibly. Probably… No, Definitely. She’s had lovers and close friends, but the call of the winds and waves were always too strong for her.

The mercenary’s compliment was not lost on her nor the fact that he took the liberty to touch her without being too forward. It was pleasantly surprising. “And who were you a soldier for? Where are you from?”

“Are you always so curious?” He inquired with gaiety. Most people did not look twice at him, unless they were fearing for their coin purse. She was right, he’d had his fair share of lovers in the past, but they usually went into the particulars far later. He didn’t hold it against this woman though. He found he liked her attention. He leaned back, placing his hands behind his head, toned arms on display. “That would be a long list, Akilah. But I can name a few… Baron Zomestrius of Alda’har for one-” He confessed, referring to the man who served as warden of the southwestern section of the island nation. Rumors were abound of the illicit trade of drugs and spices that were grown and shipped from there, as was there talk of varying rivals to the lordship. “I’ve worked for forces in four of the seven cities through campaign, and I’ve been a privateer once or twice for Andred traders. That’s where I was born, in Visamyrce.” He didn’t know her geographical knowledge, but the nation of Andred was well known in the north, set up in ten provinces, Visamyrce being one of them.

For a moment he seemed lost in thought, his lips parting as he pondered whether to speak aloud his next thought. “My da was a steward to a rich household, but he had an affair with the mistress of the mayor. He squandered it and I left as a child, finding work Ar’Guienne before he headed south to join the Virdun Crusade. I became a soldier there and…never stopped. Except for the legal part, sometimes.”

Normally he didn’t talk so much about himself. In fact, he reddened with embarrassment for a brief moment, shocked he revealed so much. Rayth then shook his head, chuckling at his awkward manner.

The mage was familiar with the names of the places he spoke of, but spent most of her time in and out of ports that she only knew of the hearsay spoken between travelers.

“There is no need to be embarrassed of your past.” Akilah teased. “As a mage, you’re taught to ask questions, otherwise how else will you learn? How else will you discover? Obviously you have to be careful about how you go about these questions, quite a few died in the name of discovery…” she trailed off, remembering the warnings of her teachers of the dangers of magic and the order of the natural world. But then she remembered that asking such forward questions weren’t as appreciated outside the college walls as they were inside of them.

“I am sorry if I crossed any boundaries. I’m sure you’re not used to opening yourself up to strangers and sometimes I get ahead of myself.”

“A friend of mine once said ‘thirst was made for water; inquiry for truth.’ I think you would get along with him.” He said, finishing the last of his mug and setting on the table with a ‘plock’. Idly he turned it over and spun it on the lip of its mouth, holding it steady with a single finger. She seemed to be wary if she had pressed too far, and he gave a wolfish smile.

“‘Crossed boundaries’? Akilah, I’ve been flirting with you for half of the meal, though maybe there is a cultural difference I’m ignorant of. Most people don’t fret over my feelings, so I am actually happy to have found someone respectful enough to speak to, but I am an open book. Close it or toss it away, but it’s there to read.”

“Well, I love to read and I would never throw away a good book… “ Akilah inched herself closer to him, placing the tips of her left middle and index fingers softly against the outside of his wrist and slowly working her way up his arm. “I am way too traveled for there to be any significant cultural differences for me to not notice your flirting Rayth. No matter where you hail from, all men act the same when around women they like. The lingering glances, displays of strength, displays of wealth, going out of your way to do things that you maybe wouldn’t do otherwise…” Her hand moved slowly as she spoke, her eyes focused on her fingers as they traced the flexor muscles along his forearm and continued along to his biceps. “ Perhaps I want more than just a body to help keep my bed warm?”

When her fingers reached his deltoid muscle, she stopped and brought her eyes up to meet his. “Or is that all you’re interested in?” She wasn’t afraid of what his answer would be as there was no shame in the act of laying with another to satisfy the craving, but not that night. She just wanted to sleep.

It was a strange thing, how a man was suave one second and the next, he doesn’t entirely know how to react when the pretty girl does it back. Or he would, had she not hit the mark like a trained markswoman. It made her that much more appealing to him, despite the guilty smile he had. He felt tingles from where her fingers made contact.

Rayth blinked, surprised at her question. Gingerly, he grabbed her hand with a gentleness.

“No,” he said, even to his own surprise. He looked at her with a smoldering gaze, dark eyes alight like gold in the firelight. He kissed the back of her hand and let it go, as gentlemanly as he could. “Perhaps that was my first thought, but after having talked, I think you’re worth taking the proper route. That is, if you’ll have me for a date? Once we’re hired, of course.”

For a moment, Akilah forgot to breathe. Her focus was entirely on the warmth from the touch of his hands, the softness of his lips against the back of her palm, and the heat he carried in his eyes. She drew her released hand back onto her lap and gently stroked the spot he kissed with her thumb, her mind momentarily drifting to darker thoughts. Drawing in a shaky breath, she managed to remember how to function, “Of course.. What shall we do in the meantime then? Unless you have other things you need to take care of.”

Rayth leaned forward, resting an elbow on the table. “We can figure it out, together. I’m just happy to talk.”

---

The next day...

Rayth had an easy sleep. One of the few he had experienced in the past four months. Perhaps it was the promise of employment this day, or a full belly? More likely it was the enchanting woman he had flirted with all night. They had very nearly kissed on two occasions, but they had refrained. Better to know if they were both shipped off the next day, so they did other things. Cards, drinking games, Rayth had shown her the trick to throwing knives. She was good too, for a beginner. He half expected her to be gone by the time he stepped onto the last step that led to the common room.

Instead of seeing Akilah, he saw the waiters moving tables about; the portly innkeeper watching the whole affair with her hands on her hips and a practiced eye, chewing on something between comments on the layout of the place. With her stood a man, weathered and aged, but not yet at the age of retirement. He bore a frock coat and wore a tricone hat, with a strong nose and a sweeping mustache of brown. He held himself in a way that spoke of combat experience. Rayth had long learned how to spot such a thing, and he eyed the sword at the man's belt as well.

As if sensing someone watching them, the lady innkeeper and the fellow turned to regard Rayth, and the three exchanged looks before whom he assumed was the Captain gave a smile, gesturing Rayth to come forward.

"Ah, you're the lad Minka told me about. The lady-killer. Well, you seem a bit older than she told me."

Rayth grinned. "Acting like I was a boy, was she?" The knave stepped forward, taking the captain's hand to shake. The shipman had a strong grip.

"Aye, you're a young'un, but old enough to sail. That's all I care about." He assured him, but pointed a thick finger at Rayth to be wary. "Though if we get enough people I might have to test a few of you."

A few vagabonds drifted into the Tacklerock, and a steady stream of regulars began heading in to get a quick bite before they would head off and unload the ships making berth. It was honest work, but too back breaking and too little payoff for Rayth's taste. He didn't want to die by the sword or the fang, but he'd rather do that than die knowing he never lived. Even the captain could see that glint in his eyes.

"I can sail, fight, and take orders sir." The knave said, giving him an equally strong grip before they let go. "I'm probably the most experienced man you'll have, though I think you'll have use for Akilah even more than me. She's got talents I'll never be able to do."

"The boy's right, she came in on a ship." Minka said, and winked at Rayth. "Lovely girl. They'll both serve you well."

---

Akilah woke that morning feeling refreshed. Taking the time to rest and enjoy herself was definitely worth it, especially with the new company she found herself with. The thought of Rayth brought a smile to her face and butterflies to her stomach. Had they progressed any further, he would have been sharing the room with her right now rather than having lodged in his own. The mage was due to meet with the mercenary downstairs so she quickly got herself together for the day. With her teeth clean, face washed, and appearance all in order, Akilah flew out her door, stopping only to whisper the protection spell back on her lock. The rings on her staff ringing loudly as she walked briskly down the hallway and calmed her pace to descend the stairway into the main dining room.

As she reached the open air, she could just catch Minka's voice. "The boy's right, she came in on a ship. Lovely girl. They'll both serve you well."

Peeking under the ceiling separating the bottom and second floors, Akilah could see the innkeeper and Rayth speaking with an older man who carried himself in a way promised he wasn't someone you should take lightly. Finishing her journey down the steps, Akilah made her way to the small group, the rings on her staff softly chiming with every other step she took. She called out to the trio over the noise of the dockworkers that had filled the room.

"I hope I haven't missed anything important?"

The man's eyes widened in surprise as he pointed his thumb at her while looking between both Rayth and Mika. "This is who you've been talking to me about?! Neither of you said she was a mage!" He leaned forward on one leg to get a better view of her. "Tell me girl, what is it you do?"

Akilah raised her eyebrow as she answered the man, surprised at his reaction to her. "I am a sorceress of storms."

"Bullshit." the man stated.

She wasn't sure if he spoke out of surprise or plain disbelief of her skills, but she decided to give them a taste of what she could do. As she spoke, the tattoos the silvery tattoos began to glow white against her tan skin. "Because of the great respect I have grown for Minka, I will not insult her by summoning a windstorm into her business. So this..." Akila's staff stood unassisted next to her as she placed her hands together firmly before pulling them apart from each other, fingertips facing each other to bridge the magic between her digits. A web of lighting appeared between her hands when her palms separated and maintained a strong current between the magical magnetic poles she formed with her hands. Channeling lighting was a raw form of magic, it was based on the feeling and the understanding of how lightning formed rather than the spoken spell that was required for higher levels of magic."..will have to suffice. Unless of course, you'd like to step outside?"

---

"I trust you can do more than that?" He asked, but he didn't wait for the answer. Clearly he was somewhat of a hardass, but Rayth didn't entirely blame him. He had a crew and an entire ship to look after. "I've never had a wizardess command the winds to make my girl go faster, but if you can do that and not capsize her, you'll pull your weight."

"She'll do her part. We both will." Rayth pipped in, subtly winking at Akilah. He wasn't exactly standing to attention like a soldier, but he carried himself with a confidence befitting someone who knew they wouldn't blow the interview. The Captain turned to him and regarded him with a critical eye, but after a moment of what looked to be simmering disapproval, he smiled and gave a curt nod. "Well, if you do you'll be paid for your effort. If you don't, you'll go overboard. I don't take liars."

Rayth gave a face that spoke volume's when he looked away, essentially 'I better not say anything else or he'll know I'm likely the biggest liar here' kind of face. But when the Captain turned back, he had the same, self assured look on his visage. Minka almost rumbled a laugh, but she kept her mirth to herself and began to wave them away as the patrons began rolling in. Her cooks had begun the late breakfast, but she was needed as always. "You two find a seat, and I'll bring out some warm drinks and a good meal for you. And for you as well, Captain."

"Free?" Rayth asked, raising an eyebrow slyly.

"Just this once, yes." She said, shaking her head and rolling her eyes before she shimmied back into the kitchen.

"Assuming we're hired, when do we leave?" Rayth inquired, to which the Captain looked at him and snorted. "Tomorrow morning. If you're late, you're left behind."

Rayth took Akilah's hand and gently pulled so she would follow him, though he gave a nod to the Captain. "Wouldn't dream of it."

---

Akilah allowed Rayth to lead her away from the bar, a decision that was probably for the best as she seriously contemplated launching the old man through the window and just paying for the repairs. She figured it maybe would have caused some resentment from her new male admirer as she knew he was looking forward to the payout. Inhaling deeply through her nose, she let go of her annoyance on a slow controlled exhale through full lips. Rayth led them back to the booth they had occupied the day before and as they took their seats, she nestled herself against him. The mage had quickly learned last night how delightfully warm he was and how comfortably she fit against him.

"What a charming man." she said simply while picking at some lint that had attached itself to her pants leg. At least she could look forward to spending more time with the mercenary before they set off on their grand adventure, whatever that was to be.

---

The swirl of the morning routine was lost on the two as they went over and sat together. The cutthroat slid in and gave her room to join him, giving her an easy smile in an effort to placate her wrath. She had good control over her emotions, which was good considering she wielded magic that could incinerate him with a word and a wave. He also realized she was kind of sexy when she was angry, which said more about him than anything else and was an extremely dangerous. Not that she wasn't breathtaking regularly, particularly when she smiled and giggled at his jokes and manner.

What he didn't expect was her snuggling up to him in the booth. He nearly stiffened in disbelief, but it felt...right. He slid an arm around her waist, his thick head of brown hair pressing to hers as their faces were very close in comfort.

"Oh, I've met far worse." He said to her, giving another wink. "Most assholes are looking to put a knife in my back. This one seeks to pay us, at least."

Briefly, he watched as a group of vagabonds walked in with all the swagger of men he grew up admiring, though he was wise enough now to know they were simply full of shit and likely rum. A few of them looked like they could carry themselves in a fight by the way they moved, but otherwise they were likely to be deckhands, if they were hired at all. Idly, Rayth began toying with a loose swathe of Akilah's hair, brown eyes turning to her.

"How'd you sleep?" He asked her, earnestly hoping she had a restful night. "The beds here are better than I would have pegged them as. But I suppose sleeping in the street for most of your life makes you appreciate fresh sheets and a soft mattress, more."

---

With his arm around her, she was completely engulfed in his warmth and it helped to calm her further. It was a welcomed comfort.

"While anything would probably be better than sleeping on the hard ground, most ships don't have the softest of beds and the ones that do are more expensive than they're worth." She started, remembering that those ships also carried mages who always looked to test their skill against her and she grew tired of the game long before she was able to leave college grounds in pursuit of knowledge and experience. "They tend to carry their own set of assholes that will insult you with pretty words and deny that they were looking to do you harm for their personal gain..."

Akilah watched as more men filed into the tavern, all probably looking to speak with the crotchety Captain. They seemed like the kind where you'd best sleep with one eye open or your door heavily magicked to deter them from trying to slit your throat while you slept. She watched them calmly and took a mental note of them should they all find themselves boarding the same boat in the morning.

"But to answer your question, I slept very well. It is tiring to get a ship to port a full day ahead of schedule and it is better to rest while you can. The earliest lessons for mages is to know your limits."

---

The interviews wore on, and out of the two or three dozen candidates, a handful were chosen beside Rayth and Akilah. The two commented and joked as the weak were weeded out, enjoying their breakfast and flirting without inhibition until an hour or two before lunchtime. The Captain, who they found out went by the name 'Harkon Graves' seemed satisfied with the selection. Other patrons went in and out, one happy man coming in and saying hi to every waiter and waitress by name and merely talking to them for a bit before leaving again. By Lunchtime, Rayth and Akilah were served again and given their space. But they made the lunch quick, this time. Rayth had suggested they go out and see the town one last time before they headed off on the morrow.

"I've got a decent amount of spending money, and say what you will about Kypertus, but a lot of wealth and trade flows through here. We might find something worth our while." He said with a wink.
"Plus, I know the spots to look. But that's only if you'd like to go look around. We can think of it as a date, if you want. The last two days seem to have been, anyway."

He plucked the last crab rangoon into his mouth, watching her expectantly.

"We'll be back before the night is done. I'm a bastard but I'm a punctual bastard." he added, to stave off any worries she might have.

---

“Well, I appreciate an honest man.” She chuckled. Spending the rest of the day out on the town with Rayth did sound like a good time and Akilah could use the opportunity to stretch her legs. Some of the deckhands on The Peregrine had offered her some sightseeing suggestions as they were approaching the harbor, but she’d rather see what the mercenary considered worth while. Downing what remained in her tankard, she set the mug down with a satisfied thunk atop their wooden round table before accepting his offer.

“Let us go on our date then! Who knows when we’ll get another opportunity.” Akilah said and wiped her lips with her napkin before rising and hailing over a serving girl to take their empty plates. Reclaiming her staff that was left to rest against the wall to her right, the mage turned to her companion.

“While I am impressed you managed to wrangle our breakfast without charge, I highly doubt Minka would be so generous as to include lunch so I’ll take care of that and meet with you outside?” Akilah finished without waiting for his reply and made her way to the bar, the staff’s chimes muffled by the gentle roar of the lunch crowd. She wanted to square off her tab in it’s entirety with the innkeeper before she left early the next morning. Boats leave with the tides, not the winds.

---

"We really haven't known each other very long if you think I am an honest man." He said, eyes lidded from the sun peeking through the windows. It gave his brown eyes a caramel, almost golden quality. Strangely, despite the fact of his statement, he looked earnest. "But I won't lie to you." He admitted. "A lot of men lie to women they like. I find that never works well. I lie for money and profit, and I'll get neither from lying to you."

Rayth took her hand in his and kissed the back of it, his hold on her lingering before he swiftly changed gears, getting up with all the swagger of a cutthroat who just won a game of dice and moving out of the Tacklerock. He passed the Captain and have a curt nod. The Captain mouthed 'first thing in the morning' but he didn't need to. Rayth was punctual when it came to work, nefarious or honest. Particularly nefarious, but he'd make sure with this one as well.

Stepping out into the sun, he felt the heat on his skin. He began to plan their afternoon, trying to discern exactly where Akilah would like to go. If she was paying the tab, he was going to do something for her, particularly if it was a date. His sly mind began to churn, hand idly toying with the hilt of one of his daggers as he plotted and waited for her to come join him.

---

The kiss he planted upon the back of her hand tingled long after his lips left her skin. The gesture caused her heart to race and quickened her breath. It spoke of the possibilities of the developing relationship between the two and Akilah’s mind couldn’t help but wonder how it would feel against more tender flesh. It would take more than a tender kiss and a vivid imagination to make her blush, but she suspected they were well on their way to accomplishing that feat. As she approached the bar, Minka was there waiting with a cloth and wet mug in hand drying off the freshly washed drinkware. There was a smirk on her face with all the smugness of a cat who caught a bird mid-flight.

"Ready to take your show on the road?" the innkeeper asked slyly.

"That is the plan, though I am sorry to rob you of your free entertainment." The mage responded to the older woman's jest in kind.

"Hardly! The girls and I have an ongoing bet as to how long you'll hold out for. So far, quite a few owe me some coin..." Minka eyed the serving girls as she spoke. "They were betting you'd have taken him to your room last night, but I pegged you to be a more sensible woman and make the lad work for it."

"Ah well, they're not the only ones in debt to you despite your faith in my character. That old barnacle wants us at his vessel by morning and I intend to leave before sunrise. What do I owe you for my room and board as well his lunch for today?" Akilah pressed herself against the counter between two empty stools, resting her arms on the sturdy wood with her staff wedged into her elbow as she asked the woman the total of her tab.

”Thats two gold for two full nights for you and two silver for his meal.” the older woman replied.

The mage reached for her belt purse that she kept secured to the inside of the waistband of her trousers and pulled out three gold coins. She placed the coins on the countertop and slid them over to the innkeeper. "Keep the change. You run a fine establishment and I look forward to returning when this is done."

"You're always welcome here girl." Minka stated warmly, swiftly pocketing the coins before any could take any true note of the exchange. "And that is not just because of your coin. Now go, the lad is waiting for you."

Akilah nodded with a smile, resting her weight back onto her feet and leaving the portly woman to her work. She walked towards the exit, her hips seemingly swaying to the chimes provided by her staff with all the grace of a dancer like the ones her people were known for. Placing her free hand on the wooden door, the mage pushed her way into the warm afternoon sun. Once outdoors, she took a moment to allow her eyes to adjust to the shining star and take in the familiar scent of the sea. The seaward winds swirled around her, pulling at her clothes as they greeted her excitedly to the outside world once more, the rings on her staff chiming excitedly as they passed. Among the mages, there are whispers of those who have more primal magic where they can sense the winds having a spirit to call their own. That there are mages who could even hear voices and smells they carried. While Akilah has never experienced the latter herself or found anyone willing to attest to experiencing such a thing, she does believe that the winds are in a sense... alive and a force that deserves one's utmost respect. She had always wondered if she sat long enough with her magical self open to the elements, would the winds be willing to share their secrets with her?

---

The city was awake and vibrant, if a bit lazy considering many took their lunch at this hour. Calls of commerce and social affairs filled the air as they moved southward, walking amid dealers and their wares. One pock mouthed woman hefted large melons in front of her chest in a comical attempt to draw the eye as a hefty, black haired man waved a sea bass around, shoving it into everyone's face who dared get within a dozen feet. They were truly within a stone and wood jungle of thatched roof structures, the streets tight and packed, shadows crisscrossing the ground from lines of fabric above their heads.

"Did you hear?" A voice said. "Grigor has lain siege to Tribartum."

"Katherine would love this." Another piped in. "You know how she gets about chocolate."

"The Duke said pirates murdered a watchman down Lorner Road, is that true?"

Rumors and chit chat flooded the air about them. Rayth had perfected the art of drowning out the noise whilst simultaneously nabbing any information out of the air that could be useful later. Rayth pulled her along, keeping her close. Partly because he wanted to make sure no one stole anything off of her or got any ideas, but mostly because she was gorgeous and he was far too into her for having been around her for such a short time.

They entered Markham Square, aptly named for the square shape of the courtyard, the designs on the fountain and stones beneath their feet filled with right angles and hard designs. A flock of geese aimlessly waddled, and whether they were domestic or had decided to just take a load off, they seemed used to humans. A few honks here or there accompanied them. One child tried to pet one before it bleeted and the kid ran away to his mother's skirts. Commoners, laborers, and merchants alike either hustled or lounged, there was no inbetween. Rayth decided they should lounge, and so he led Akilah over to the fountain, taking a seat beside the bubbling water. At its center, the fountain held a masterfully sculpted statue of Rán, lady of the sea.

"Well now that I have you alone," he joked. The square was sparsely populated, but there was still at least a dozen gazes passing them every few moments from the crowd. "I would be remiss if I didn't ask, where you would like to go? Or, what would you like to look at? I know where most things are in this city. Books, clothing, even scrolls for spells."

---

Akilah planted her rear on the fountain's lip to Rayth's right, ignoring the stares from onlookers. She learned early on that it was best to pretend they didn't happen or else some fool would get the wrong idea if you matched their gaze for too long. While still aware of her surroundings she instead chose to focus on the geese as they wondered about searching for food while painting the stone street with their feces. It wouldn't be long until the feathered masters of flight decided that the fountain's pool was suitable for a quick dip or decided to rest their plump feathered bodies on the warm ground for a nap. The mage stretched out her legs her legs in front of her, flexing her heels to include her calves into the much welcomed engagement of her muscles. The fabric of her loose fitting trousers hung delicately against the lines of her body and was of a quality that wouldn’t betray her body in the rays of the sun despite it’s color.

She cocked her right ear towards Rayth as he spoke, focusing on his voice over the bubbling of the fountain and the low murmur of the crowd in the courtyard. Where would she like to go? Had they more time, any store boasting magical wares was worth her attention, though in the past that had proved to be a problem when she opened her mouth to call out fakes among seller’s stocks. Otherwise, sometimes they are a delightful learning opportunity waiting to happen. Books are a nice past time, but not something that can hold up to the elements of sea travel unless she spelled them for protection and a heavy addition to her trunk. Clothes, while nice to have, was not something she focused on too heavily as she traveled too frequently to bother having a collection.

”Well, what do the local people Kypertus like to do for fun?” Akilah inquired, genuinely interested in what they did. While touristy destinations and world renowned restaurants were nice to go to, she found she enjoyed more what the locals considered a ‘good time’. Some of the best food she has eaten and music to grace her eardrums were found in what visitors would otherwise describe as a ‘hole in the wall’ and brush off without realizing amazing experiences awaited inside.

---

What to do for fun? He was a bit taken aback at the question. Rayth had been fully prepared to be her host of the city, take her anywhere she wanted just to see her smile. It was...strange. He was very good at flirting, but he had never been so readily accommodating. And now that she turned the question on him, he didn't exactly know what to do, and it showed. If he was going to have fun, he would go thieving or drinking, maybe bet on some knife throwing or a game of cards. But...there was a lady present. And then he got that look in his eye. The promise of something fun.

"Are you hungry?" He asked.

He was reluctant to have her get up again as soon as they had sat down, but she had asked...

Half an hour later, Rayth took her by the hand as they stepped up the steep stairway, crowds of people flowing around them like water passing rock. The concert was about to start, a group of the city's best musicians gathered and played a concert every fortnight as a public service. The best way to woo a woman, he decided. Murmurs and chatter rose and fell as waiters called for food available, waving drinks and sausages in soft buns of bread. Rayth and Akilah made it to the 3rd row from the top, finding their seats. Unfortunately, a portly merchant had decided to take residence there with his three children. When Rayth told him to move, the man scoffed and did not. Rayth raised an eyebrow, looked at Akilah, and then back at the heavy set fellow.

Rayth took the sausage he had procured from one of the waiting staff, turned to the merchant who had jowels like a whale, and he slapped the man straight in the face with it, sauce and all. As the man was staggered and dazed from the blow, he struck him again. And again. And again until the man and his children fled their seats.

"I will get you for this!" the merchant cried, gathering his food and drinks and fleeing with his family.

"I doubt it, I'll be gone tomorrow." Rayth whispered, waving goodbye with a faux smile. He sighed, and looked at his date with what looked to be reluctance. Stepping back, he motioned for her to take her seat, as if she were his princess and he her escort. "I'm sorry you had to see that side of me."

---

Akilah watched in amusement as the scene played before her, a comedic treat before the concert they were there to see started. She was glad for the man to be gone with his three young children as such creatures would have killed any mood that Rayth was trying to create for them, though she may have chosen different means than the use of a sausage. The mage liked children well enough, but she was not at a time in her life where she wanted them for herself or wanted to interact with them any more than what is necessary at any given time. At his offer, she lowered herself gracefully into the chair while turning to her right to gently plant her staff against the floor of the balcony. The magical device stood on its own with a simple spell that the mage whispered into the late afternoon air and like the rest of her belongings, anyone who tried to touch it would receive quite a nasty shock.

”Don't be. Had I any less self-control, that sea captain would have experienced flight yesterday and I would be apologizing to you for having seen me lose my temper..." She paused a moment, searching for a more comfortable position in her chair and continued once she was satisfied. "Besides, I am more sorry for the wasted sausage. I'm sure it tasted delicious..."

Akilah picked at one of the soft buns that her companion had gotten for them just minutes earlier that was now meatless but still had absorbed the flavoring of the sauce that the sausages had been stewed in. It was delicious and her face expressed the delight she felt in consuming it. The mage could see why this venue was popular with locals and travelers alike as the food alone was good enough to come. Akilah was glad of it as she doubted the old barnacle cared about the quality of food that was served on his ship so long as it was edible for the crew to function as they needed to. Though the greater curiosity was what the old man was after that he felt the need to hire additional crew members with a simple promise of riches. It was something dangerous enough to need the extra bodies, but the crucial details were anyone's guess...