Marius felt the chair creak as he leaned back and stretched his arms wide. His stomach was full of the feast, whose remnants were now scattered across the modest wooden table, inside the small apartment.   Timon slapped a heavy hand down on the table, fighting through the laughter trying to finish his story. The plates and mugs clinked as the small table shook.
“And so there’s Marius,” Timon roared trying to catch his breath, “sprinting up over the hill with his pants still down around his knees and mauntnow leaves still stuck to his ass!” Karion struggled to choke down his food as the memory came back to him. Barton and Julien laughed in amazement as Marius simply shook his head.
“And over the hill behind!” Timon continued, “Comes an entire garrison of Parliamentary troops! Apparently he was mid dump when he realized, he was shitting right next to a guardsmen’s tent!” Timon slapped the table again as the laughter overtook him, and filled the room. It had only been a few hours since they had arrived, and already Barton, Julien, and Marius were full to bursting. For the first time in days they felt safe, in the company of friends, and they were finally able to relax. Timon and Karion had made quick work of their supplies and a magnificent meal was available within minutes. The three ate as if they had never seen food before, and more importantly, laughed for the first time since they had met. Even Barton, who had initially remained staunchly opposed to the hospitality of these strangers, had warmed up to their kindness.
Julien on the other hand seemed enamored with her hosts. The convent walls had kept her safe as a child, but that had shielded her in so many ways. While she had studied the world extensively, her time at this table had helped her to realize how little of it she really knew. She was amazed at Marius’ new demeanor. He seemed at home, in his element, and dare she say, happy. The smug smirk had been replaced by a genuine and humble smile, and she couldn’t help but think that he looked far more beautiful than before. Yet who were these strange men, who had so readily accepted her and Barton, and had brought out such a bright side of Marius. At the risk of offending her hosts, she decided to indulge her curiosity.
“I hope you don’t find this rude,” she queried, “but you keep some very strange company. How did you all meet again?” Timon chuckled slightly at her naivete.
“We fought together during the rebellions.” Julien still seemed confusion.
“But I thought that the forces were regimented by tribes. Were you all members of the same tribe too?” Julien had clearly already deduced that this statement was incorrect. Karion was clearly of Marihari descent, and Timon didn’t seem to even have any journeymen heritage. Marius smiled wryly. Julien was a good kid. She was kind, passionate, and had a strong will. But she was beyond naive. Everything she knew of life had been learned from a book, and it showed.
“I led a special operations force during the rebellion,” Marius said.
“Not just any spec op force!” Timon interjected, “The goddamn the 76th! Marius’ Raiders! They used to call us the black megguns. We made Rhodian fighters shit their pants!” Karion slapped his hand hard onto the table.
“Hoyah!” Marius and Timon instinctively pounded their fists against their chests, and held them high.
“Hoyah!” They all shouted in unison.
“My regiment was handpicked from some of the other tribes,” Marius continued without skipping a beat, “We only took the best warriors we could find.” Marius watched the wheels turning in Julien’s head.
“I thought the Marihari didn’t join the tribal alliance though,” she asked, clearly directing the question toward Karion’s direction. Karion roared loudly at the question, laughing.
“Oh no!” he exclaimed, “those yikchocks thought that joining the alliance would weaken us. They thought the other tribes weren’t up to the task of war.” His deep voice bellowed.
“So you didn’t agree with them?” Julien asked.
“I wouldn’t say that,” Karion stated simply, with a smug glance in Marius’ direction, “I’ve just never been a big fan of suicide. It was a simple matter of numbers. If I was going to fight a superior army, I liked being outnumbered three to one a hell of a lot more than a couple hundred to one. So I volunteered, and I joined the alliance.”
“What did your tribe think of that?” Julien asked quickly. Her curiosity was getting the better of her, and despite the extremely personal nature of the question, she forged ahead anyway. Karion was somewhat thrown off by the question, but he couldn’t help but admire her interest.
“Well,” he said somberly, “My mother and father disowned me, that was probably the hardest. I was also exiled from the tribe, and told I would never be allowed to return. Technically I’m no longer a Marihari. Though the tribe’s all but gone at this point anyway. I suppose it will make for a more interesting reunion in the next life.” He chuckled with good humor at his joke. She could tell he had made his peace with this fact long ago, but it didn’t seem to stop it from weighing heavily on him.
“And what about you?” she asked, turning to Timon, who was mid gulp from his chalice full of ale, “What tribe are you from?” He quickly swallowed and absorbed the taste of the hard liquor.
“Me?” he groaned, “I’m not a member of any tribe. I’m not even a journeyman.” Julien looked perplexed.
“I didn’t realize any non journeymen fought in the rebellion.”
“There weren’t many,” Marius interjected, “Only a few dozen. They were all absorbed into different tribal forces. Most of them were settlers, like Timon there.”
“Settlers?” Julien asked.
“Journeymen weren’t the only people who lived off the plains,” Timon said, “I was a farmer. I grew up outside of Byann Carr, where my father was a farmer. The revolution proved hell on the business though, so he sold the land, and him and my mother retired in the city. I spent some time there myself, even went to academy, got a pretty decent education. I fell in love, got married, and even had a daughter. But I always missed farming. So, I decided to set up shop on the plains. Had a fairly decent business going to. Until the Parliament decided that the plains better served the nation as chard mines.”
“So they kicked you off.” Julien said.
“Not exactly,” Timon chuckled, “I was given a payment option. See the government bought all the land, legally of course.”
“Wait a minute,” Barton interjected, “If the Parliament bought the land, then why did the rebellion happen?”
“Because we weren’t looking to sell,” Marius said sternly. “The democratic government put out a decree, that as the people’s land, they could claim it for whatever interests best served the people, so long as any citizens who might be displaced were given adequate reimbursement for our losses.”
“So then why did you need to fight?” Barton foolishly asked.
“Because that was our home,” Marius snapped back. “My ancestors lived, breathed, fought, and died there. Some coin and a kindly worded, ‘fuck off’ didn’t match up to that fact. The journeymen had lived on the plains for centuries, we didn’t have anywhere else to go.”
“And some of us believed in the rights of the people,” Timon added, “As law abiding citizens of Olivia we have an undeniable right to make a living where we choose. Strangely enough the people’s government seemed to have a harder time grasping that fact then the monarchy did.”
“So,” Julien started hesitantly, “you joined the alliance to defend your farm.”
“That’s right,” Timon stated.
“And is the farm gone now?” Timon took a deep breath and smiled slightly at his memory.
“That’s right.”
“And your family,” Julien asked carefully, “Where’s your wife and daughter?” Timon took a long moment to answer. The smile faded from his face, and without the light and laughter of him seemed to fade as well.
“They’re gone too,” he said simply.
“I’m so sorry,” Julien stated apologetically, “I didn’t mean to pry.”
“It’s quite alright,” he said.
“So what happened to the rest of your regiment?” Julien asked, as her curiosity began to lead her off again. The three men remained silent. They sat still, and looked at each other.
“Are the on the reservation?” Julien continued. Still, she got no answer.
“Why aren’t the three of you on the reservation with them?” Karion gently placed his hand on hers. She looked into his eyes, and saw the kind fatherly eyes looking back into hers.
“Some questions,” he said slowly and clearly, “are better left unanswered.”
Marius made the change of subject apparent as he slid his chair back and stood up. The table shook from his weight, and he made it apparent that time for somber reflection had ended.
“Alright you drunks,” Marius bellowed with a chuckle, “time for business. Barton sober yourself up you’re coming with me. You two, make sure that she doesn’t leave the house. Keep her safe. Anything happens to her, and I’ll have your asses. Understood?”
“Oh yes sir!” Timon laughed.
“I’m serious on this one,” Marius said sternly, “I’ve got a decent paycheck riding on her. Any problems and I’ll be collecting a debt. Barton let’s go.”
“Why do I have to go?” Barton protested.
“Because I might need backup,” Marius replied sternly, “now let’s go.”
“Woah woah,” Karion stepped in, “Backup? Where are you going?” Marius took a deep breath and sighed heavily.
“I’m going to call a meeting.”

*****

Councillor Jon Handel strode down the marble halls of the Rafe Capitol building. His long flowing robe dragged across the floor as he moved quickly and with purpose. He had worked hard to gain his position of power, even before the revolution. He was a highly respected duke, and a sanctioned public official by the royal family. When “democracy” had swept the nation, he recognized a sinking ship, and he had quickly changed alliances. He always told himself it was for the good of the people, that it was his duty to ensure that certain ideologies were not abandoned. However, ever since the revolution, he couldn’t help but question whether or not his new superiors were worth supporting. More than once the security of Rafe had been seriously jeopardized by the so called “national interests,” and now once again he had been called from the Council floor in order to meet with a national official. He was not happy on this night.
“Voss,” he said approaching the soldier quickly, “This had better be good, I was in the middle of a fucking session.”
“Such language,” came the unseen, but familiar voice, “the people shouldn’t trust the fate of their city to such a filthy man.” Handel dropped his head and sighed heavily. There were few people in the world his disliked or distrusted more than this man.
“Carnus,” he said, turning slowly to meet his dark eyes and smug smile, “You’re in Rafe. Wonderful. Tell me what errand does Litchken have you on now?” The words dripped with disdain and impatience. Carnus moved close to the councillor, looking clear into his eyes. Handel twitched slightly trying to avoid the gaze. Carnus first weapon was always eye contact. He looked into a person’s soul, and in return allowed them peer into his own, an act of which the result was, needless to say, terrifying. There was a hatred beyond all hatred in Carnus’ heart, and he wore it on his sleeve, masking it with sheer physical strength and intelligence.
He moved close enough to speak softly. A number of council and ambassador officials and clerks moved about around them in the massive halls.
“They’re here,” he stated slowly and deliberately.
“Who?” Handel asked hesitantly.
“The candidate,” Carnus snapped back quickly. Handel quickly glanced around, making sure no unwanted ears might listen in.
“What do you mean they’re here? In Rafe? I thought they were in Cabnic.”
“They were,” Carnus replied, “We had them cornered in Gandit’s house, but a rather unfortunate journeyman happened to get himself involved.”
“Well what the happened? Why didn’t you do your goddamn job?”
Carnus cocked his head to the other side. His tone shifted, and Handel swore he could feel the air around him turn colder as well. His heart beat quickened, and he felt a lump begin to form in his chest. A sinking feeling of fear overtook him.
“Are you admonishing me councillor?” Handel stumbled over his words.
“No, that’s not- I’m sorry, I’m just-” He took a moment to compose himself in the midst of Carnus shadow. “I’m heavily invested in this. If word gets out, it ruins me.”
“If word gets out it ruins many people,” Carnus chided, almost as if scolding a child, “I suggest you try and remember your place Councillor. A pawn only survives the fray when they are intelligent enough to know their ranking.” Handel looked away, unable to hold Carnus’ animalistic like gaze. He bit his tongue hard, knowing the truth behind Carnus’ words. A pawn. It tasted rotten in his mouth.
“Look,” Handel began, trying to refocus the conversation, “What do you need from me?”
“Help.” Carnus stated simply. “We’ve got some work that requires the aid of your city and it’s defense.”
“Talk to Joiun Bern. He’s head of the Port Guard, let him know that I’ve okayed your presence in the city. He’ll give you whatever you need.”
“I’m afraid Sergeant Bern is dead,” Carnus stated simply.
“What?” Handel replied with utter shock.
“He allowed a journeymen to escort the candidate and her boy toy within these city walls. His incompetence may have cost this nation greatly. I would suggest that you take more care with selecting you defensive commanders in the future. He was also lied about his error, a mistake which found him guilty of treason. As executers of the law, we took the responsibility upon ourselves and saw that justice was committed.”
“For fucks sake!” Handel blurted out, “He was a goddamn public servant! He was an honored military leader, and you murder him and call it procedure.”
“Classification of the act is not relative at this time. What is important, is that our needs are met, in order to ensure an adequate search of the area is completed.”
“Alright,” Handel stated frustratingly. “What do you need?”
“The capture of these fugitives is absolutely vital to the safety and prosperity of the state,” Carnus said, “I need to know that you understand the importance of this mission.”
“Yes I get it,” Handel stated, eager to get back to his work, “What do you need from me?”
“First off, we need the full aid of your city’s defensive forces. We’ve found that some troops are still refusing to recognize our authority. A more formal decree of cooperation would prove far less tiresome than executing them all the time.”
“Of course they won’t obey you. You murdered their commanding officer.”
“Can you help us or not?” Carnus said sternly.
“Yes, yes,” Handel replied eagerly, “I’ll take care of it, it won’t be a problem anymore.”
“Good, secondly,” Carnus continued, “We need some more clerical data transferred to our intelligence. We’re going to need rosters and manifests from every ship that’s come or gone in the last few weeks. We’ll also need a copy of your most recent census data. Preferably with any former rebel force members highlighted.”
“Done.”
“Good. Finally we’ll need you to close the Port.” Handel gritted his teeth. He knew the moment he had received the summons that this would be asked of him, yet it did little to sooth his anger and frustration with the situation. He sighed heavily, and shook his head.
“For how long?”
“Indefinitely.”
Handel flashed anger across his face and looked straight back at Carnus. He couldn’t believe the request.
“Close the port, indefinitely?! We’re a port city! We rely on every aspect of it to maintain our infrastructure!”
“I understand,” Carnus stated patiently, “But it is imperative that we find these fugitives.”
“Yeah!” Handel interjected, “And while you’re searching through the streets, you’ll bleed us slow into a recession and collapse! No! I’m not killing my fucking city! I’m not letting you walk all over Rafe again! And I’m not taking orders from a fucking journeyman like you! My foot is fucking down!!!” Carnus smiled smugly at the comment. Handel’s anger faded and the reality of his situation came flooding back.
“I’m sorry,” he stated shamefully, “I didn’t mean to-” Carnus cut him off as he put his arm around him, and began to slowly walk him down the hall.
“Johnny. It’s ok. I forgive your prejudice. You’re opinion of journeymen is steeped in ignorance, and it is understandable why you would question our worth. But do you really know what makes a journeyman so strong?” Carnus let the question hang in the air for a moment, “No attachments. See from birth, we’re taught how to live on the move. We’re taught how to attach ourselves to Helen as a whole being, and nothing else. We’re taught how to run, before we even know how to crawl, and stumbling and thrashing we claw our way through life, never taking time to stop and build. We don’t have elections, or council races to deal with. We don’t have to worry about making payments on our beautiful homes in the upper crescent of Rafe. We don’t have to keep our image clean for the public press. And,” Carnus moved even closer to Handel, “We don’t have familys to provide for. Or worry about. We don’t have beautiful wives to protect. We don’t have gorgeous daughters, just about ready to enter the academy, who I’m sure would make the most wonderful sounds if prodded in the right manner...” Carnus allowed his voice to trail off. Handel stared back, terrified of the wrath he faced before him. What choice did he have?
“The port will close. Indefinitely. Just give me two me two hours.”
Carnus smiled.
“I know it will. See Voss, he’ll help take care of the details. He’s ever so good at paperwork.”

*****

Barton leaned against the hard stone wall on the narrow street. The tavern rested on the edge of a level, which allowed Barton a clear viewpoint of the sea. Forte sat alone in the sky, but it’s light shown off the water in a brilliant reflection. Torches lit up the area all around him, and he could hear a commotion inside the building against which he leaned. A few smaller party’s moved about outside around him. Most were drunken sailors, accompanied by some hired companions, though a few tourists and exhausted port laborers, recently off from the evening shift, littered the streets as well.
Barton always knew that every city treated the night differently. Some embraced the late night that Forte night allowed, choosing to sleep during Morendo night and well into the early morning hours. While others embraced the early morning provided to them by the Morendo night, choosing instead to sleep during Forte night, and labor hard with the early violet light. Rafe was clearly a city of the night. It enjoyed libations, and from his vantage point he could see all the way down to the port, where the party seemed to originate. The light of the torches was almost blinding, and the echo of music and shouting, could be heard all the way up here. It seemed as if the higher one climbed in the city, the quieter the streets seemed to be.
He shifted his weight impatiently now against the uncomfortable wall. “Just wait right here, and don’t start any trouble.” It was all Marius had said to him before he had entered the tavern. He didn’t know what he was up to in there, but he couldn’t figure it was simple work. Why would he bring him for back up? He had the choice of either Karion or Timon, and instead he went with the young kid he openly mocked and ridiculed. Maybe Marius had wanted a bargaining chip. Barton laughed to himself. If he was planning to use him, he’d be in for a surprise. He wouldn’t be traded away so easily.
Just then a loud crash echoed out next to him as the tavern window shattered, and a large body came flying through, landing on the cobblestone street outside with a thud. Barton instantly recognized Marius as he rolled over onto his back and groaned.
“You know there is a fucking door!” He hollered back into the tavern. Just then the door flew open as two men emerged from the building and moved toward Marius. Marius tried to crawl to his feet quickly and he hollered to Barton.
“Do something!”
“Like what?!”
“I don’t know! Back me up!”
Without thinking, Barton quickly jumped onto one of the men’s back. He wrapped his arms around the man’s neck and tried to hold on tight, as he avoided the heavy, flailing arms. Marius threw a kick in the direction of the other man, who was still approaching, and caught him in the gut. The man grabbed Marius foot, and twisted him over onto his stomach.
“You think we’d just forget you!” the man shouted as he twisted Marius’ ankle. Barton continued to grasp tight as the first man threw his back against the stone wall.
“I just wanted a meeting!” Marius hollered before sending a sharp kick right into the second man’s face. The man fell back grasping his nose. He withdrew his small dagger and proceeded to approach Marius again.
“I’ll give you a meeting with death you little fucker!” Marius tried to crawl away again.
“Barton! Help!” he hollered. Barton braced himself for another blow against the stone wall.
“I’m a little busy!” he groaned after the hard hit. Before Marius could get to his feet, the second man was on top of him, pressing the blade down against his neck. His dirty teeth gritted together as the moonlight glinted off the knife.
“I’m gonna make this slow, boy. I’m gonna enjoy it.”
A pistol shot startled all four of them, as the man with the knife jumped off Marius and reeled around. Barton took one more hit against the wall, and dropped off the man, falling to the ground. Marius leaned himself up and looked at the sight in front of him. A dozen well armed men stood around a small portly lady. She wore a simple flowered dress, and her hair was up in a small simple manner. A grass-roll hung from her mouth, and the smoke trickled over her hard mannered face. She held the four-shooter high    in the air, the smoke still flowing from the barrel.
“The man asked for a meeting,” she stated sternly.
“But Madame Laxio,” the second man stammered, knife still in hand, “This son of a bitch owes me a debt.”
“He owes me one too!” she exclaimed quickly, “Nobody kills someone before he’s paid up. It’s bad business. Now get the hell out of here.” She snapped her fingers twice, and two of the larger members of her entourage stepped forward. Barton watched with humor as his attackers ran off into the night, tail tucked between their legs. Madame Laxio stepped forward.
“Marius.” she said, shaking her head disapprovingly, “Your must want to see me pretty bad, if you’re willing to show yourself in a Rafe tavern.”
“I could use a hand.”
“Then come with me,” she said sternly, “We can’t talk out here.”
She moved off down the street, a few members of her escort helping Marius and Barton to their feet. They walked down a few blocks, and around the corner, coming to another busy tavern. They walked through the front door and into the mass of drunken song and conversation around them. Madame Laxio nodded at a few massive guards, who quickly ran off to stop a fight breaking out. Onstage, a raunchy modvaud was underway. The crowd jeered as the villain twirled his fake mustache, and cheered as the girls threw their tops to the audience. The entire group moved quickly through the chaos to a private room in the back.
Madame Laxio quickly stepped in and sat at the private table in the middle of the room. A drink was set down in front of her. Marius and Barton stepped in as well.
“No.” Madame Laxio said quickly, “the boy waits outside. You want to talk, we talk alone.” Marius turned to Barton and nodded. Barton, still taken with the entire experience simply nodded back, and stepped out of the room. The door shut with a bang, and Marius found himself alone in the room with the Madame, and her largest guard.
“So,” she stated, lighting another grass-roll, “You want to talk. Go ahead. Talk.” Marius smiled smugly, and hesitated for a moment.
“I need a favor.”
Madame Laxio rolled her eyes quickly, and shook her head.
“Another one. You’re still in debt. Did you forget about the Tynska job?”
“No, I know,” Marius answered quickly, “I’m in no position to ask for help, but I don’t know where else to turn.”
“Well find somewhere,” Madame Laxio stated quickly, “I know your mother and I go back, so out of respect for her I haven’t killed you yet, but that doesn’t mean I’m willing to spoil you.”
“I know,” Marius answered quickly again. “I’m not looking for a handout. I can pay. I promise. You help me out, I can pay off my original debt, plus interest. I could probably even buy a few.” Madame Laxio tapped the ash from the end of her grass-roll.
“You know how to appeal to a woman of coin, but what insurance do I have to believe you?”
“None,” Marius stated plainly, “I’m asking you to trust me.”
“Trust is not a valuable commodity in this day and age.”
“I’ve never gerried a job for you before. I’m telling you this time, I’m good for it.” Madame Laxio tapped the ash again. She studied Marius hard for a moment. He seemed genuine. He seemed honest. But he also seemed desperate.
“What’s the job?” she asked. Marius looked over his shoulder at the guard, and then back at Madame Laxio. Her look made it clear that despite Marius’ wishes, the guard would not leave them. He leaned over the table.
“I need to get into the Capitol.”
“So walk in through the front door.”
“I can’t.” Madame Laxio stubbed out her grass-roll and leaned forward. Her curiosity had been peaked.
“Marius, Marius,” she chided, “What have you gotten yourself into?” Marius lowered his head, upset with his answer.
“I don’t know.”
“That’s bad business,” she exclaimed.
“But they’re paying very well.”
“Well that’s just being greedy,” she laughed slightly, “You never accept a job without specifics. I thought I taught you better than that.”
“I know,” he said chuckling back, “But this kid out here, he’s promising me a fortune. He’s carrying it. I’ve seen it. I don’t know what they need to run from, but they’re willing to pay me a fucking treasure.”
“Perhaps,” she said, “You should consider what it is they would pay a treasure to run from. Because you may be in it’s path now.”
“Maybe,” Marius said, “But that doesn’t change the fact that I need to get into the Capitol. Can you help me or not?” Madame Laxio studied him quietly for a moment. She couldn’t help but indulge the boy a little. She had known him since he was a boy, and she had watched him grow into a vibrant young man. She was there after the rebellions, when he came to her, a broken and bruised man looking for work. While she loved to see him work again, she knew he was destined for greater things in this life. Still, she figured wether she helped or not, he was going to try and get into the Capitol. If she helped him then at least he might not get killed doing it.
She motioned to her guard, who brought her a small box. She reached in and pulled out a small coin, tossing it onto the table in front of Marius.
“I have a contact in the swamps. Jayid here will give you all the details on the way out. That coin bears my mark. Bring it to my contact, he’ll get you in under the blade. And, I expect to be paid as soon as you’re finished.”
“Of course,” Marius said, snatching up the coin, “I promise. I’ll be back in two weeks at most. With full payment.” Marius stood and made to move toward the door.
“And be careful,” Madame Laxio called to him, “Your mother would never forgive me if anything happened to you.”
“Yeah well I’m sure they’ll manage,” Marius chuckled.
“How is your father?” Madame Laxio asked knowingly, “Have you been back to see him yet?” Marius toyed with the coin in his fingers keeping his gaze down cast. Finally he put it in his pocket and looked up at her quickly.
“Thanks for the coin,” he said, heading straight out the door. Jayid briefed him on the details, and he found Barton waiting at the end of the hall.
“Well,” Barton asked, “What happened.”
“We’re all set, let’s get out of here.” Barton stopped.
“Wait a minute, what’s all set? What went on?”
“Don’t worry about it,” Marius said waving him off, “Just securing our passage into the Capitol.”
“Well what about those guys on the street?” Barton asked, angrily.
“Oh don’t worry about them,” Marius answered, frustrated, “That’s a long story, and a boring one. Now come on, we’ve got some supplies to shop for.” Marius began to step off down the hall, while Barton remained.
“Now wait a fucking minute,” he yelled, “I just almost got killed out there. And then you drag me in here, head off to some secret room, and do some backhand deal. I’d like to know exactly what the hell just happened.” Marius moved back toward Barton and smiled smugly. He patted him on the shoulders.
“Kid, you just said it yourself, you almost got killed today. That’s a win. Now come on, we got to get to the markets. We’re losing moonlight.”
Barton begrudgingly followed behind Marius out of the tavern and into the streets. They walked up four levels, making sporadic small talk along the way. Barton was incredibly taken with the city he now found himself in. The sheer size of it overwhelmed him, and he understood now why people said Rafe was a city that never slept. The moons were high in the sky, and the night was in full swing, yet the commotion on the streets would’ve indicated that it was still the middle of the day. He had never imagined he would find himself in such a place. Cabnic now seemed like a small village compared to this. Marius, noticing the boys amazement, couldn’t help but laugh. If he thought Rafe had any decent size to it, he couldn’t imagine what he would say once they reached the Capitol.
They continued on down a number of twisting alleys and stairways. Barton practically had to jog to keep up with Marius’ long strides and quick pace. They passed a number of fights as the brawls spilled out of the taverns and into the streets. On more than one occasion Barton was forced to wave off some especially filthy port whores, attempting to seduce him. He also saw a small number of Port Guardsmen moving about the streets on patrol. For the most part they ignored him though, as they were far too busy attempting to control the chaos. At night Rafe belonged to the neighborhood warlords, and it was nothing short of a massive drunken battlefield.
After a few more turns, they finally reached a large open square, that was filled with a massive marketplace. The more formal trade day had ended, and most sailors and ship captains had retreated to their ships, or the nearest tavern. This left the markets open for some bartering, and made the back alley black market deals far easier. Only about half the stands were still open, but it was all Marius needed in order to secure adequate supplies for the next part of their journey. He grabbed Barton and started to move around the vendors, purchasing some rations and ammunitions for his four-shooter. He also picked up some feed, for the mounts he would be sure to acquire in the morning, when the more formal markets opened again. Barton begrudgingly paid for all of it, and helped Marius to shoulder the load. They made to move back to Timon and Karion’s flat when they were greeted by a familiar face.
Julien came trotting down the aisle between the vendors, stopping briefly to examine the contents of each cart. When she caught sight of Marius and Barton she waved to both.
“Hey guys,” she said, absently, “how’d the meeting go?”
“What the hell are you doing out here?” Barton snapped back, as he advanced on her, “what if someone saw you?” Julien looked back at him, defiance and anger in her eyes.
“So what if they did? They don’t know what I look like anyway, and I wanted to get out of the house.”
“Come on,” Barton said grabbing her wrist, “We’ve got to get you back indoors.” Julien pulled her arm away violently and looked at Barton with a hatred etched across her face. She couldn’t understand who he had become lately. He was angry, stubborn, and harsh. He wasn’t the boy she had fallen in love with anymore. She couldn’t help but feel guilty. Had she brought this change out in him?
She held his gaze for a moment, before finally heading off by herself. Barton moved quickly behind her. As they did, they passed Timon and Karion, both smiled and made to say hello to Barton. Their excitement was quickly destroyed however by the look on Barton’s face. Karion moved off with them, and Timon approached Marius.
“Gee what’s up his ass?” he asked.
“Why is she out of the house?” Marius asked seriously, “I told you to look after her.”
“We did,” Timon answered, defensively, “she wanted to get out. She’s got a kick to her that one. You can’t keep women like that caged up forever.”
“No I suppose not,” Marius thought aloud. It was true. She had been caged her entire life, and though he wasn’t entirely sure, it seemed as if her destination was only a slightly larger cage. He understood why she wanted to get out and explore. He even admired it. But that didn’t erase his job. He wanted to get paid, and that meant he had to keep her safe.
“So I take it the meeting went alright?” Timon asked.
“Yeah, we’ve got passage into the Capitol,” Marius answered, absently still looking in the direction Julien left, “Ran into some old friends along the way. Vagnie and Barq.”
“Aha” Timon snorted, “I bet they were thrilled to see you.”
“They put me through a window.”
“Well, I would say you made out alright then.” Marius chuckled at the thought. He was lucky they hadn’t killed him. Rafe was another a city he couldn’t seem to show his face in. He tried not to think of it often, but the thought always seemed to creep back into his mind. Friendly cities in Olivia were getting to be rare commodities for him. The ground was drying up around him.
“So I have to ask,” Timon said, interrupting Marius’ introspection, “what are you doing looking after these kids?” Marius sighed heavily.
“What can I say,” he answered, “the money’s good.”
“The money’s never good enough to protect a couple of high level national fugitives.” Marius smiled. Timon could see right through him.
“Something happened, on the way here, out on the flatlands,” Marius answered thoughtfully, “You could say it made me a bit of a believer.”
“Well my, oh my. What in the world could make a believer out of Marius the journeyman?” Marius laughed at the joke.
“We were attacked. A black meggun came out of nowhere. Right in the middle of Del Niente. It had the jump on Julien and everything. It even pounced on her.” Marius began to trail off in thought, “But then it suddenly looked at her, and it was like it knew something. And it just stopped.” Timon seemed lost. A wild meggun breaking off mid attack was unheard of.
“It just left?” he asked.
“No,” Marius answered whimsically, “it came back, and fed us. And then protected us the whole way here.” Timon stood next to him in stunned silence, before he too turned to watch Julien walking away.
“Well, I’ll be damned,” he said thoughtfully, “that is interesting.”

*****

Julien awoke as the bright rays of Corna shone in through the open window. Outside she could hear the call of waterflights soaring around the bay, and diving for fish. The streets seemed quiet on this early morning. She stretched, trying to shake off the effects of the late night. It was the first decent sleep she had gotten in almost a week, but it wasn’t enough. She was still exhausted. The shadows moved slowly across her room, as she could tell that the sunrise was still well underway. She yawned deeply and rolled to her side to see if Barton was still asleep in the other bed. It was empty though. She sighed and tried to close her eyes, blocking out the light. She tried to remember happier nights. She tried to remember when Barton used to whisk her away over the wall, to show her the world she was missing. And inevitably, she remembered the mornings when he would return her. She hated the sunrise. It always brought about the end of all hope. The end of her dreams.
She tried to force herself back to sleep when a slow and haunting melody began to sound quietly beneath her. She could hear the measured plucking of strings, and the vibrations of their echoes, flowing ethereal like through the air. The notes moved slowly and sadly, as if a siren song to a long lost memory. She remained for a moment eyes, closed enjoying the sound.
Finally, she pulled herself out of bed and to her feet. She moved out of the room, and followed the sound slowly down the hallway. She felt the floorboard creek beneath her feet, and the quiet music slowly grew louder. As she descended the stairs, she felt each board bend under her weight, and the most minute of audible details now joined the symphony of sound. As she entered the living quarters below she found Marius, wrapped in a small blanket, and the djerik sitting in his lap. He plucked the strings, slowly and methodically.  His eyes remained closed, as if he could feel the vibrations and sounds moving through him. He didn’t play the djerik as if it were his instrument. He simply allowed his fingers to answer the call the instrument gave to him.
Julien moved quietly and slowly, finding a chair and sitting across from him. She watched him closely as his eyes remained closed, and he continued to focus on the sound. His face mimicked the waves and crests of the sound, and his entire being flowed with them. Julien watched in amazement. Without opening his eyes, Marius addressed her.
“You’re not supposed to watch a djerik wielder practice.” Julien flashed a deep shade of red as the embarrassment overtook her.
“I’m sorry,” she said quietly, “I’ll leave you be.”
“No,” Marius stopped her, “I didn’t mean you couldn’t stay. I meant you’re not supposed to watch. Music should be felt. Close your eyes. See what I see.”
Julien remained hesitant for a moment. She had never read anything about feeling music. All of her teachings had told her music was audible experience. Still, she couldn’t help but be intrigued by his playing.
Slowly, she shut her eyes. For a moment she remained in the dark, with no sight, as the music continued on. She breathed slowly and methodically, allowing her weight to relax, and her body to go limp. She felt herself disappear into the chair. It was if all the world faded away from her. The sounds of her breath began to amplify and mix with the music. They tangled together into an unbreakable wed. It became a wave of sound, tightly knotted and indistinguishable, yet with clearly moving parts. She felt the floor fall out from under her feet. Pure nothingness enveloped her body.
Then, little by little, light began to seep into her sight. She took a deep inhale, as she saw the blurred outlines of a vision begin to form.
“It’s ok,” Marius said knowingly, “Just listen, and focus.”
Slowly but surely her breathing relaxed, again forming the tight knot with the music. Her vision slowly lit itself up again. Little by little the colors began to swirl in, and spread around. A pale blue on top was littered with patched of white, while green, grey, and brown mixed at her feet. The sky was the first thing to define itself. It seemed as if she had never been so close to it before. It was pristine and beautiful. The clouds mixed in a swirl, and she swore that could almost taste their moisture as she inhaled them.
The ground began to paint itself into a grassy hill atop a massive mountain. The grass swayed with the gentle breeze, and the earth felt soft and gentle beneath her feet. Soft rocks littered the ground around her.
In the center of her vision, a stone structure began to illuminate itself. It was a massive structure, but it blended with the landscape seamlessly. It did not impose itself, nor did it vanish away. It simply stood, tall and stable, as if it were a monument that would whether all of time itself. A number of small towers jutted out of the main structure, each one beautifully carved and painted with foreign symbols. A massive dome stood at the center of it, and the large wooden gates slowly opened themselves for her. The entire structure was adorned with foreign symbols and what looked to be scientific measuring instruments. Gorgeous fauna grew all over the building. She marveled at it. Marius’ voice cut into her vision as she simply stood in awe.
“Did you learn any instruments in the convent?” he asked quietly.
“No,” Julien answered, “We learned to use our voices. We were taught how to use our bodies as instruments.”
“Join me then,” Marius said smilingly slightly.
Her eyes remained closed as she focused on her vision. She inhaled deeply, and slowly opened her mouth. She made no words, only allowed the sound to pour out of her. The beautiful voice slowly filled the room and intertwined with the djerik’s quiet mediations. It soared above them as if a bird gliding along the air. She marveled at her vision and allowed the emotion to dictate her voice. Marius had never heard such a beautiful sound before.
They sat together, allowing their song to wash over them for sometime. Slowly and methodically, allowing the music to twist and turn with them. Julien’s voice slowly petered off, and Marius continued his playing, slowly fading away. Julien cried silently as her vision began to vanish in front of her. The darkness crept back into her sight, as the djerik’s vibrations faded off, and she was again left in blackness.
Slowly, she opened her eyes, and met Marius’ sight. Marius stared back at her and smiled. He felt confused looking at her. She seemed strong and scared at the same time. He felt his stomach sink, but he felt safe. With her, he felt as if he had purpose again.
Then without warning, Julien moved to him, and sunk her face to his. Her lips gently pressed against his, as her kiss enveloped him. He welcomed it, returning the feeling, and allowing the charge to run through his whole body. He put his passion into her lips, and inhaled her breath. Slowly, she pulled away, keeping her hands pressed against his face. She looked into his eyes with a look of sadness and fear about her. Marius returned her gaze confused. She studied him.
“There is so much pain in you,” she said quietly. Marius breathed heavily, trying to keep himself composed. Then anger suddenly and inexplicably washed over him. He pushed Julien off, and leapt to his feet, dropping his djerik in the process. Julien remained kneeling on the floor in thought as he strode of and threw open the door, walking out into the early morning light. The shadows moved around the city streets, as he inhaled the cold morning air. He clenched his fists together and tried to compose himself again. The anger boiled inside of him and he punched the stone wall next to him, hard. He felt the sting on his knuckles, as he grunted in pain and moved off down the street trying to control his anger. He came to the level edge, and gazed out at the harbor below.
“Can’t sleep huh?” Marius reeled around to find the source of the voice behind him. Barton sat on small stoop overlooking the harbor. A smoking grass-roll sat between in his fingers.
“Me neither,” he said, as he took a deep inhale, and blew out the smoke, “Something about the city just makes it hard, ya know?” Marius shook his head and looked out at the sea.
“Yeah. I know what you mean.”
“Though one good thing,” Barton continued, “They’ve got some beautiful grass-roll here. I’d heard stories. Glad to hear it’s one rumor that isn’t false. Smooth and delicious.” He inhaled deeply and let the smoke fill his mouth, slowly letting it trickle out. Marius nodded and the two men sat in silence for a moment. Marius continued to seethe as he stared out at the rolling waves. Barton chuckled to himself.
“She kissed you didn’t she,” he stated plainly. Marius shot him a glance back that clearly answered his question. Barton laughed to himself.
“I’ve seen that look on enough men before, I’ve even worn it myself a few times. Don’t take it personally,” Barton took another long drag from the grass-roll. “It’s how she understands to people. See in the convent, they teach you how to study people. Not how to know them. So she learned how to feel a person’s most intimate details. She can figure you out based just on how your lips meet hers, or how your mouth moves,” he exhaled the smoke again, “It’s very scientific, not real personable though.” Marius shook his head and tried to control his anger.
“Well she ought to fucking learn how to be a person first,” and with that Marius allowed his anger to carry him off down the street. Barton laughed to himself again, and took another deep drag.

*****

Marius’ eyes clenched tight. He felt disgusted. He tried to bare down the lump in his throat, but it remained high, forcing him to struggle to breath. He tried to steady his motion, and felt his hand fall to the wall for support as his head went light. It had been almost a week since he last fell to his knees, but the weightless feeling returned again like usual. He felt the tears streak against his cheek, and the weight began to lift. His head bowed. And he prayed.
The words came like a hoarse whisper.
“Forgive me, for I have sinned.” The narrow corridor walls, began to glow. Though he remained, kneeling on the hard cobblestone of the Rafe alleyway, they seemed to almost fade away, and the lights began to shine through. The walkway of mirrors formed itself, and she approached, as usual.
“Lord Anashia.”
It was a name he spoke regularly. She strode forward, draped from head to toe with glorious red robes. Her auburn hair shone brilliantly. Her face, striking and beautiful. She wore such age and wisdom on her face, yet a bright light shone through such terrible knowledge.
“Rise, my most favored son,” she spoke quietly, “What troubles your heart this night?”
“My lord,” Marius stated, eyes downcast, “I have delivered the token as you so required, but in doing so I shared in it’s beauty. I saw the vision with her,” he inhaled deeply, “and it was beautiful.”
She reached down her long arm and slightly touched his chin. She guided his head to meet her eyes, and looked down smiling. Tears streaked his face.
“Do not worry my son,” she spoke genuinely, “This is a good tiding. The fates destined long ago for this to happen. You have seen what is to come, and you know it’s necessity now.” Marius calmed himself. He pressed his head against her stomach, and she held him tight. He enjoyed the embrace. It was home to him.
“What would you have me do?” he asked absently.
“We need no more of you,” she answered, with love in her eyes, “you have done your duty. You have served our cause so well, we ask no more of you. What path your life takes now is your choice.” Marius remained resting his head. Suddenly he realized he was lying next to her, tracing the outlines of collarbone. The remained silent, looking into each other.
“I will take her to the Capitol,” he spoke quietly, “I will ensure she reaches her destination.”
Anashia looked back, her eyes aglow. She kissed his forehead.
“I love you.” He looked back and tried to reach his hand to hers.
“I love you too.” The mirrored walls around them began to darken and fade. He could feel himself floating away. She released from his arms, and he was pulled back to reality. He awoke with his head in the
   Marius lay on the cold cobblestone with the familiar aftertaste of vomit in his mouth. He tried to shut his eyes and ignore the pounding in his head, but it was to no avail. The familiar sound of tribal drums was pounding in his head. As reality came back into his mind, and the breeze reawakened his sense. Marius noticed a lack of something in the air. He smelled carefully. It was different this morning. Suddenly, it hit him. It was quiet. Where was the crowd? Where was the din of the port laborers, loading and unloading the ships? Where was the sound of drunken fights over petty debts? The port of Rafe was closed.
Stupid. How could he have missed. There was only reason the port would be closed, the Parliament was in Rafe. They must’ve followed them from Cabnic. Fuck, he thought. they would’ve closed the gate. Where can we get out? Is the aqueduct pass closed today? Before he could regain his focus on the situation however, he heard footsteps coming toward him. He tried to look around, but the massive walls practically covered the entire alleyway in shadow. He could hardly see around him.
“Who’s there?” he cried out, receiving no answer. Slowly, he withdrew his four-shooting, checking the chambers quickly to ensure they were loaded. The footsteps echoed off the walls around him. A disembodied voice began to sing.

On the rolling plains and pale blue sky,
The tribal drums are ro-ar-ing,
On the misty mountains teary-eyed,
The tribal drums are ro-ar-ing,

He recognized that voice. He hadn’t heard it in years. He hated that voice. It’s eloquence cut like a blade.

In the caverns deep, and columns high
The tribal drums will echo loud.
For land is owed to the journeymen,
The tribal drums are ro-ar-ing.

Marius clenched his teeth, and spun around looking for the son-of-a-port-whore.
“WHERE ARE YOU!?” he shouted, with pure rage in his voice. He heard the familiar coy, disgusting laughter.
  “You dirty little shitsticker. If you’ve got a bone of integrity in that body of yours, you’ll show your ugly fucking face to me right now, so I can shoot you in it.”
“Oh Marius,” the sharp voice spoke, “don’t tell me you’re not happy to see me.”
“I’ve prayed this day would never come for five years,” Marius said to the darkness. He tried to wipe away the memory from his mind. He closed his eyes and for a moment saw himself as a young man, only just seventeen, leading the charge. Carnus stood with him. Now his voice echoed around him. Marius held his gun out, searching for a sign of movement. Suddenly he stopped, seeing the outline of a shadow in the darkness around him. It stepped forward, and the light caught the side of his face. Corna made his face look paler that usual, and the shadows covered his eyes. His short dark hair stood on edge.
Carnus stated plainly, “Hi.” Marius held his gun steady.
“What are you doing here?” he kept his cool.
“Straight to business? No small talk?”
“I’m not playing games this morning Carnus,” Marius said sternly, “I’m waiting for you to give me a reason not to blow your head off.”
“Because that wouldn’t be good enough for me.” Carnus flashed a sly smile. “You don’t want me to die. You want me to suffer, you want me to feel the pain you feel. Tell me? Does it weigh heavy on you?”
“You shut your mouth,” he warned him,
“Does it hurt, to know every morning, that they’re all dead because of you.”
“I said shut your mouth,” he repeated.
“They trusted you. They followed you in search of a promise land, in search of honor. What’s worse, they believed in you.”
“I said shut your fucking mouth!” Marius screamed as the pressed the four-shooter right against Carnus’ head. He tried to steady his nerves. His hand shook.
“Go ahead,” Carnus spoke quietly, “Prove me wrong.” Marius’ finger twitched, and tightened. He couldn’t do it. He slowly lowered the pistol. His arm falling limp.
“It’s ok,” Carnus spoke kindly, “You’re never going to be able to kill me. My crime isn’t murder Mari. It’s breaking your heart. You can never kill someone who broke your heart. It’s why we hate them the most.” Marius sighed heavily.
“So is that why you’re here,” Marius spat out quietly, “not done torturing me yet?”
“You mean Timon and Karion,” Carnus asked, “No, no, of course not them. I’ve had them surveilled for almost a year now, but I wasn’t ready to kill them yet. The time just isn’t quite right yet.” Carnus spoke with a cavalier eloquence, as if he were playing a match of daelgroban. “When they die, they’ll die on the run. They’ll die scared.”
“Then why are you here?” Marius asked.
“I’m here to deliver a message,” Carnus said plainly. Marius furrowed his brow.
“Somebody got you play message dog now, brother?”
Carnus laughed. “Ha! Hardly.”
“I’m not sure. Sounds like you’ve become a watchdog for your new master. That is of course if the rumors are true.”
“I don’t think I have to justify my choice of employment to you Mari.” Marius spoke back quickly.
“You know I wonder how your initiation went with the Parliamentary guard though?” Marius mused, smiling smugly.
“That’s none of your damn-”
“It reminds me of a whole host of memories.” Marius started to laugh at the thought of them.
“You have no right to treat me like a child!” Carnus shouted at him.
“Do you remember when we switched all the mauntnow you had packed up with a bunch of magnac?” Marius mused, laughing.
“You will not talk me in this manner-” Again Marius’ voice cut him off.
“You had the rash for two weeks and kept on using it. You just couldn’t figure out why!” Marius laughed even harder, and was quickly cut short by a blow to the stomach for the butt end of one of Carnus’ two hanbarken carvers. He collapsed to the ground as the wind was knocked out of him. He chuckled to himself and he felt the blade come against his neck.
“You should learn to watch your mouth.” Carnus spoke through his clenched teeth, crouching next to him.
“Why?” Marius asked, “You can’t kill me either. Remember, the time just isn’t right yet.” Marius laughed in his face, a look of disgust across his face.
“Unlike you,” Carnus spoke quietly, “I would love to kill you, but at this time my duty forces me to relay this message to you. The child you escort is a national fugitive, and the most dangerous threat our country has ever faced.”
“If a little girl has your government shaking scared, then I’d say their not man enough for the job anyway.”
“It is imperative to the good of the Olivian people,” Carnus continued, “that she is brought to justice. Though I have been authorized to use whatever force I deem necessary in accomplishing this mission, I have been ordered to keep casualties at an absolute minimum. Being as your a man of coin, logic dictates that your loyalty lies not with them. Therefore we are allowing you a reprieve.”
“A what?” Marius spat back.
“A free pass,” Carnus stated simply, “You have six hours. Abandon them. Walk away, and all will be forgotten. Stay, and you will be considered a willing traitor to the democratically elected government.”
Marius scoffed at the thought.
“They can call it whatever they want, I didn’t vote for them.”
“That does not grant you immunity to their law.” Carnus sighed heavily and shifted his weight. He looked Marius right in the eyes.
“I do not envy the chain you bare brother. Rest easy. The end is coming soon. I will bring your suffering to an end soon. I promise. But first, you will beg me for it.” Carnus pulled away the blade and re sheathed it. He stood tall and looked down at Marius below him. He stood regal. Marius couldn’t help but feel sick. The boy could’ve been so much. And instead he stood before him now, nothing more than a traitor to his very name.
“Six hours,” Carnus reminded him. “Take the easy way out, just this once.”
And with that Carnus stepped back into the shadows and disappeared.
Marius jumped to his feet.
And ran.