The place was quiet, yet soothing with the presence of a rose gold music box playing by the background. There were also honey colored daffodils placed in a cutely knitted basket by the burnt sienna colored window sill. What made the lively flowers even prettier were the company of the fluffy white clouds and clear blue sky outside the window.

Aegir was busy pouting to himself as he sat by a gold colored lounge just inches away from the window. His pink lips puckered and brows crumpled like a child who didn't get what they wanted.

He was a little sad that Anthony couldn't be with him because he needs to enroll for the incoming school year. It was just yesterday that they finished their first mission. Just getting reminded of how painful it was getting his leg broken like that made him place his hand on his leg and gently caressing it. He even started to berate himself for being a little too careless.

If he could just decide on what to do, he wants to rest from fighting for a week but unfortunately they can't. They're scheduled to do another mission again tomorrow that's why he's here—in a certain blacksmith and magic tool creator's home to get the pair of gauntlets Artemisia commissioned just for him. Since he usually fights with his physical strength coated with his mana, a magical tool to stabilize his mana is much needed.

He also heard that the magic mirror and the communication device were all made by the same blacksmith.

Aegir sighed. He missed his master. It's the first time that they'll be far from each other. Maybe, he'll ask Anthony how human phones work so he can still call him.

"What's taking that other man anyways? " He was referring to the first customer who entered the blacksmith's workroom. "I want to finish things soon so I can go home early. " His gaze went to the tall gold clock beside the table where the music box was placed.

Aegir was also worried about the two kittens who were left again in their home.

Aegir heard the sound of the bell ringing and a slow creak coming from the door leading to this room; indicating that there's a new visitor. He didn't spare a glance and continued eyeing the blacksmith's workshop's door; hoping that the person before him would leave soon. He tapped his foot as impatience washed over him.

He sensed the incoming sounds of footsteps, a low clicking sound coming from a boot. Eventually, the presence was beside him as the foam of the lounge creaked sofly under the person's weight.

Aegir didn't really care who it was but he felt the gravity of their stares aiming at him; feeling a little self conscious, Aegir motioned his body to face the stranger; a she with a striking silver mane tied in a high ponytail, her cobalt blue eyes danced with confusion as her lashes flutter staring at Aegir.

He also blinked repeatedly not because of how she looked at him but how he thought her looks were somehow familiar. Aegir had seen this eye shape before, almond with straight shaped thick eyebrows. Although he just couldn't pinpoint where.

He shook his head and decided to forget what he thought.

The woman, Aimee, gave a tentative smile to the feline next to her. She feels that he seemed new because she only saw him today. But she may be wrong, so it's right to ask him directly. "Are you new here? " She asked him, lips etched with a warm and friendly grin.

Aegir was reluctant to answer but the woman seemed kind enough. Although she has that quite toned shoulder muscles; she doesn't look like she'll pouce at him and tear him to pieces.

With a nod, he replied, "Yes, I actually just finished my first mission yesterday. " Aegir faintly smiled, his hand went to the back of his neck; stroking it slowly.

Aimee's eyes widen in stupefaction. She couldn't help but to frown; sadness crept inside of her. Based on how he looked, Aimee could tell he was quite young, maybe nineteen or twenty, around the same age as her younger brother. For someone this young to be exposed to the danger of battles. She couldn't help but to pity him and get angry at the same time because people as young as him were compelled to fight to survive.

The news already reaches her and the nymphs that a vampire might be involved in all of these and Aimee's desire to kill the culprit intensifies. She couldn't bear to bury yet another pile of corpses she shared memories with.

Aimee's eyes darkened. Aegir could see the change in her expression and he laughed nervously, in particular if Aegir were in his cat form right now; he may hiss in fright because of the woman. He raised both of his palms and waved in front of her to try and tell her he's okay.

"You don't have to be so worked up. I fought alongside someone and Vin was with us! " He tried to convince her, tone low and calm. "And I did some pow pow stuff to the enemy on my own you know? " Now Aegir sounded smug, he even crumpled his knuckles and punched playfully in the air.

Solace found its way again to Aimee's face upon the mention of Vin-the esteemed paladin who treated her comrades' injuries. But the sadness in her heart still remained, she couldn't help but to see her brother, Anthony, to the guy in front of her.

He always acted the same way before. Copying the moves he saw on the television and will often wear a cape; smiling childishly as if he owned the world.

She wanted to see her brother's smiles again but she couldn't afford to drag him to this mess. A nymph's halfling's awareness to magic will only awaken if they'll be exposed to a mana-stricken place. They can live as a regular human if kept away from it. That was their mother's wish for them-to forget about their nymph lineage and live peacefully as a human.

She wants to be with him again and tell him everything but now's not the time.

Aimee gritted her teeth, her hands were gripping her jeans tightly. Aegir could witness her scary expressions again but he could tell that somewhere in her eyes was deep-rooted misery. One can tell if they venture further to her blue eyes, it'll feel like being drowned in the sea of tears.

He's been there before, he understands.

Aegir tilted his head on one side. His other hand went to reach the woman's knee; gently tapping it. Just as the sun's light hit his pretty face; he beamed. "You're going to be fine! Don't lose hope! " Aegir's smile reached his eyes after he uttered these words, as if he's quite sure it's certain.

The woman's eyes widened but seconds later, a drop of tear slid down her cheek. She felt her heart stir, the encouragement reached her heart. The gravity of Aegir's sentence resonated a lot to her. No one had told her these for too long-the last one were years ago from her beloved younger brother.

The young man really reminded her of the main source of her hope-one of the reasons why she kept on fighting. Aimee went to reach out and gently placed her hand atop Aegir's head. She playfully tousled his head just like what she does to her brother.

Aegir was caught off guard but he didn't hate the gesture, in the contrary; he was also reminded of the times where Anthony does it to him. They have the same warmth for some reason. But of course his master's was still the best!

"You sure remind me of my brother, " her voice laced with genuine fondness. "Thank you. "

Aegir was a little clueless on why she said she reminds her of her brother but he guessed it's not a bad thing since her scary expression already vanished.

But what she asked next made Aegir unmoving for a bit. "Say, why are you fighting? " She asked him. She knows that maybe there's a drive for this young man to be involved even though he doesn't look like the type to fight.

To be honest, Aegir never thought about the reason. Perhaps he wanted to stay alive? But it's not the only reason why he's trying. His mind wandered trying to ponder the truth but as what he's chasing became clearer; images of Anthony's smiling face flashed on his mind. Memories started to flood his brain-of their shared moments together; he, Anthony, their cats and how each time Anthony stayed by his side and protected him.

A mellow smile crept on Aegir's lips. His eyes twinkled like the first star appearing in a beautiful night. Aegir's smile turned into a wide grin, showing radiance. His face was slightly flushed resembling the sun rising on the east.

"At first, I just want to live but as time passes by I am doing this for another person. As much as I want to preserve my life... I want to walk with that person every step of the way. " Aegir's voice trembled slightly, he's quite shy to say these things to a complete stranger but he couldn't help it.

Aimee couldn't help but to admire his pure resolve. She could see the light of his eyes shining so brightly; the gaze of those stricken with love. "So, you're doing it for love. Your partner must be very lucky having you. "

Aegir's face was painted with a stunned look. The idea of love was foreign to him. He certainly craves affection but he isn't sure if he could also love. After all, his life was shaped by survival.

"He's a guy and he's my master. It's my obligation to be with him. " The words left from his mouth sounded unsure, desperate to be logical even. Anthony is his master so it's natural for him to serve him so that he could receive his affection just like any other cat.

Isn't it just like a business transaction?

He could hear Aimee snickering at his comments. "When you see someone as important and you always want to be with them... you have them in your heart, with no conditions and buts. You feel happy with them. And if they leave, you'll feel an excruciating pain and emptiness. " Aimee pointed at Aegir's chest where his heart was.

Aegir blinked his eyes in bewilderment. But the moment the idea of Anthony leaving him sank in, he felt like his heart was being crushed into pieces. His system immediately pushed the idea as impossible-with a resounding no. His eyes started to wet in tears. "But I don't know what love is and how to love. He'll leave me... " Aegir sounded in despair, panic laced on his voice as he kept on repeating the last sentence in dread.

Aegir's voice suddenly turned almost a whisper; questioning and hesitant. "But do I... " he held his breath before continuing, "Do I really... love my master? "

Aegir's mind painted him a motion picture of his master as Anthony stood by the kitchen, Aegir could only see his back. He was cooking their dinner, happily humming something. When Anthony heard his footsteps, he turned his head to face him. Anthony's golden orbs radiated warmth, his lips curved into a sweet smile when he called Aegir's name.

Aegir felt happy that day. He felt like he was home.

A tint of pink humored Aegir's milky cheeks. He shook his head a couple of times, his gray cat ears twitching in response.

Aimee was moved but she couldn't help but to laugh at the poor cat's antics. She'll have to send prayers to whomever it is that the young lad treasures. "You'll figure it out sooner, kitty cat. " Aimee patted his head once more.

Aegir was about to ask another question when the door of the blacksmith's workshop burst open. The last customer stepped in; a tall elf wearing a hood. He has that drained expression on his face as if he suffered from diarrhea. Strapped on his back is a newly made bow made from ebony.

Aegir pulls a face. The elf looked horrible, he wondered what happened inside? Is that guy inside that room scary?

He heard someone called from the inside of the room. Their voice was fruity and full of enthusiasm. "Next, please! " Aegir heard the voice said.

Aegir slowly stood up from his seat, he was still skeptical about going. He also still has so many questions to ask the lady and there's no way that what she said will be forgotten.

That's something grave! How will he face his master when he sees him home?!

The lady looked at him and motioned him to go. She smiled at him one last time and uttered, "You'll find the answer soon enough, don't worry about it! "

With heavy steps, Aegir walked to the door; pushing it slowly until he heard a low creaking sound. He winced upon entering when his skin felt the smoldering heat coming from the blacksmith forge. There's a huge chunk of metal inside of it; burning orange red as the fire danced around it. The place was rather tidy for a workstation, the tools are properly placed on the shelves near a huge panel window.

The sound of the metal being hit repeatedly could also be heard. In the middle of the room is a tall man, probably a 6'3ft striking the metal using a platinum hammer; creating tiny sparks of light every time the hot metal meets the hammer. The blacksmith wears nothing but the brown colored jumper-like apron, his huge muscles in full view.

Aegir couldn't help but to flicker his eyelids, he was quite surprised by how the blacksmith looked. It's nothing like how Anthony described them in his novels or what he saw on the television.

The blacksmith has a rather conspicuous pearly white skin, long slender neck, and fluffy platinum wolf cut hair, on top of his hair is a protruding horn covered in white fur. What's more shocking to this blacksmith is his face, it doesn't look intimidating at all. His face was rather feminine with a round face shape. His eyes were also round with a jet black color. He also has distinctive long lashes and a pink cupid bow lips.

The blacksmith was an alpaca... man. And it seems scary to see that face holding a heavy looking hammer.

The alpaca-man caught Aegir staring, he gave his visitor a kind smile. His index finger motioned Aegir to the cream colored chair near one of the shelves.

And by his smile, Aegir couldn't help but to throw some glances laced with suspicion to the alpaca.

"Oh, you must be Aegir! Vin told me about you being his dear pupil. I am Cross, nice to meet you!" His voice sounded jovial and overly positive sounding as if everything around him was good.

Aegir went to the seat where the alpaca-man had pointed, he didn't say a word, he just quietly sat there. "Wait a minute! " Cross took the metal he's been working on with a tong and placed it on the bucket of water near him, releasing a stream of smoke.

But just like before, Aegir didn't reply. His mind is busy thinking about the ideas of love and he doesn't have the room to add another, especially his intuition tells him that this blacksmith can be annoying.

It feels like this guy will do something he'll find infuriating. He can feel it in his bones.

True to be told, given his silence; Cross tried to open a topic. "Do you want to hear something metal? " he suddenly asked Aegir who was now yawning in his chair.

Aegir shoots him a bored look. Something from his system urged him not to answer, especially that man with that irritating smile on his face. Aegir started to think that perhaps dealing with the blacksmith was what made the last customer take so long. The last customer looked like his soul had already left him!

Aegir didn't speak any words yet the alpaca laughed. "The adjective for metal is metallic, but not so for iron...but isn't it ironic? "

A painful silence echoed in the room. Aegir's face darkened. A sharp glare was thrown to the blacksmith who was not fazed in the situation; he was even laughing in amusement. Aegir stood from his seat, his eyes closed; sighing.

"You know, I think I don't need the weapon. I am fine, really. I need to go home. " Aegir heard Cross laughing again, seconds later he heard a drawer being opened.

Cross went near the cat-man who still had the annoyed expression on his face. He opened his palms, revealing velvet colored boxes. Cross could see the questioning look that Aegir has because the size was too small to become a gauntlet.

Cross smirked, proud of his work. He opened one of the boxes revealing a silver ring engraved with a cat's face; its two eyes were adorned with a green stone. "These two right here are one of my lovely creations. The first one that I opened is called Prototype Mau and the other one is called Raven's Iris. If you channel your mana here and by envisioning it as a gauntlet, it will be a gauntlet. And there's more to it, try using it! " Cross' voice sounded so excited that it sounded so creepy for Aegir.

Aegir was doubtful to take the ring out of the blacksmith's hands. But since he wanted things to be over soon; he swiftly snatched it away from the alpaca who just chuckled.

"I suggest you use it on your right ring finger. It will definitely look good. " Cross wiggled his eyebrows as he eyed the other unopened box.

Aegir didn't know what he meant so he just slid the ring on his fingers right away. He raised his fingers in the air and try to examine it. His eyes sparkled just by admiring the beauty of the gems,  the color also resembled his eyes.  The alpaca didn't lie, it indeed looked good.

"Now channel your mana and let it transform into a gauntlet, " the alpaca instructed him.

Aegir did as he was told. Moments later the ring started to glow with the color of his mana-pink. It slowly encased both of his hands until a striking silver gauntlet took its place. There's a cat's face engraved to where the back of his hands are supposed to be; just like the ring it has two eyes with green orbs.

Aegir couldn't help but to look in awe. He moved his hands; twisting it and making a fanning gesture. Shockingly, it doesn't feel heavy even if it looks like metal.

"Now, say, 'claws out' and see what happens, " Cross continued, his eyes sparkling. If only he could pat his own shoulders right now, he'd do it for doing such a good job.

Just like before, Aegir obliged. His mouth shaped like the letter o when the normal gauntlet suddenly started to have five pieces of sharp silver claws.

Cross didn't wait for Aegir to speak, he placed the other box he's holding in Aegir's hand. "And this is for your master. This will help him stabilize his mana so he can control his shears' powers and also it can help him connect with souls more, it'll also look good on his ring finger, tell him. " The alpaca wasn't satisfied enough and fished something from his pockets; a rather large rectangular paper bag. Aegir won't even be surprised if that clothes he wore is also something Cross made.

It was Vin who told him about the idea of making two almost identical rings.  And Cross wasn't born yesterday to realize why. He knew the bunny's evil plan and he'll support it along the way.

"And this is from Vin. These are books he told me that you'd like. Read it when your master isn't looking. " Cross winked as if there's meaning behind his expressions before continuing to speak.

"By the way, once you two die, these weapons will also cease to exist with you. I will not forgive you two if you will destroy my weapons! " Cross made a frowning face; his index finger moving from left to right indicating a no.

Upon the mention of death, Aegir's body ran cold; the hairs from his tail stood up. Cross laughed and patted the frightened cat man. "I love my weapons, okay? Cherish it as you cherish your life. "

After all, the reason why he was forced to create a self-destruction output to his weapons was the guns he had created before that were used by the enemies by killing and controlling his patrons' dead bodies.

Aegir could see the sudden shift of the alpaca-man's expression. His eyes suddenly turned sad upon mentioning how he loved his creation and he couldn't bear to see them be destroyed.

The topic he and the woman from before flashed to his mind. She and Cross has the same views about love. And Aegir is starting to think that they're right.

Losing something or someone you love is equivalent to a horrible pain.

And that is what exactly he feels if there would come a time his master will slip away from him...he'd break for sure.

-

Anthony was deadly tired. He was walking like a zombie as he entered his house; kicking his shoes somewhere he didn't care. The queue was long in his university when he was trying to enroll and he had to endure ample time for it. Anthony fished his phone and went to check the time, sighing; he was feeling relieved that it's only 1pm in the afternoon and he's sure by now that Aegir was finally home from fetching his gauntlets.

A lazy smile crept on Anthony's face. He's certain that Aegir will definitely flaunt his new gauntlets to him excitedly. "Well, that will heal my tired self, " he absent-mindedly muttered looking at the plastic bags he's carrying; full of ingredients for tonight's dinner.

Anthony remembered that Aegir requested having a salmon party tonight.

If only Anthony had heard what he carelessly spat, he'll surely flip by now. Perhaps his exhaustion made him a little delusional.

"Aegir? I am home! " he called his housemate. Although he knew that Aegir must be with their cats in the living room by now, watching television.

He walked towards the living room with a smile on his face.  He found Aegir cozily lying by the sofa;  his head at the right corner of it and his long hair sprawled on the floor.  The television was open with an image of cats being shown.  Aegir was not watching,  rather,  he was busy cuddling with their two cats.  Their two cats were lying on Aegir's chest and he was showering them with kisses and pampering massages.  Soft meows,  purring,  and occasional giggles coming from Aegir and their cats could also serenade the warm place.

Anthony stopped on his tracks and decided to watch them for a while.  He couldn't wipe out his smile while gazing at them.  His heart felt full and almost like it's more magical than the existence of powers in his world; this caused him to have that sensation of being healed,  more potent than even Vin's healing abilities.

Before meeting Aegir and their cats,  his life was considered completely dull. He'll just come home after a long day without a sense of excitement and purpose other than lying on his bed to rest.  Right now,  it's different.  He's always looking forward because he knows that he'll not be alone.

Anthony watched Aegir suddenly get up,  an obvious pout on his lips.  Aegir looked at their cats and spoke to them,  tone complaining,  “Ah! I'm getting impatient! When will he come home? ” The cats tilted their heads to Aegir's question.  A mellow meow escaped their tiny lips.

Anthony chuckled because of what Aegir had said.  He shook his head softly.  Anthony knew that Aegir arrived 10-15 minutes before him because his housemate still had his pink long sleeves and jeans on;  the same outfit he wore before entering the magic mirror to go to the blacksmith.

He's just impatient... or maybe he's also getting hungry.

Tibby,  the eldest of the two kittens who already had the ability to speak,  placed his little paw on Aegir's plump cheek.  “Don't worry! ” the little kitten beamed, making Aegir smile and pat the little kitten's head.

Anthony wasn't that shocked anymore when he made peace with the truth he now couldn't deny.  For him now,  these things are considered his new normal.

He also couldn't help but to get his phone from his pocket and proceeded to take a couple of photos while watching Aegir hugging the kittens.

‘What if I'll just surprise him that I'm home? ‘ A thought ran to Anthony's mind.  He was snickering to himself.  He's in the mood to tease his housemate after all they weren't together for a few hours. 

Anthony quietly approached Aegir,  his heart fuelled with anticipation of his plan to surprise him.  His reactions will be funny, he's quite sure.  He tiptoed and went to grab both of Aegir's shoulders from the back;  earning a gasp and a hiss from the oblivious guy.

Anthony's laughs echoed in the living room even out shining the volume of the show being played on their television. 

It took a minute for Aegir to glare at his master, almost like he's ready to dig his claw to his face that was enjoying his misery.  Aegir took a couple of breaths to calm himself;  he then grabbed one of the pillows on the sofa and hit Anthony repeatedly.  Anthony was trying to shield himself using his arms but he's miserably failing.  He couldn't concentrate on protecting himself from it because his laughter still didn't die down.  He was really enjoying it.

”Idiot! Idiot! How could you! ” Aegir grumbled,  continuing to smack his master with a pillow;  now,  he took another one and simultaneously beat his master with it.

The two kittens could just watch in tranquility as they saw both of their caretakers ’bicker’. Or perhaps,  it's one-sided because Aegir was the only one hitting and berating Anthony who was not even angry at receiving the attacks; in fact,  he's entertained by it. The light on his eyes were even serene but glowing lively just like the moon in its full form.

Aegir's attacks turned slow each passing second,  indicating that he's getting tired of it.  With a pout,  he returned the pillows on the sofa.  His brows were still crumpled as he stared at his master;  his hands now placed on his hips. 

Anthony grinned,  his hand found its place on the top of Aegir's head.  He patted it gently.  “I'm home! But I am not sorry I startled you, “ Anthony announced himself; smirking.

Aegir frowned,  a visible pink tint flashed on his face.  Aegir tried to look away but eventually he gave in to what he really wanted to do.  His arms wrapped around his master and his face buried on his chest,  inhaling his familiar and comforting scent.

Anthony was glued on the spot,  body rigid like a statue placed on an exhibit.  He found his cheeks burning hot, he's sure that he's redder than a tomato now.  He's quietly praying that Aegir won't hear how loud his heart is beating right now or he'll probably just come with an excuse that it's because of the adrenaline when they're having a pillow fight a while ago.

Aegir bobbed his head to look at Anthony,  this time his forest green eyes are now coated in tears.  He still couldn't forget the idea that Anthony might leave him and that thought was the one making him anxious of Anthony's return.  He was so afraid that Anthony would not come home and that he's in terrible danger.

”You wouldn't leave me,  right?  Promise me? ” Aegir was whimpering, tears continued to fall from his cheeks,  soaking Anthony's chest.

Anthony doesn't know what's the reason why Aegir suddenly said these horrible words but somehow it affects him;  almost like an anvil was placed on his heart.  His throat suddenly went dry and the thought of leaving Aegir hypothetically made him angry towards himself.  He knew that if Aegir left his side,  his life would turn to the same barren and cold land once again.

And he couldn't afford that!

Anthony's thumb went to wipe down Aegir's tears,  shaking his head;  saying a hard no.  He then rubbed Aegir's hair.  ”No,  silly.  Why would I do that? Pinky swear! ” Anthony raised his pinky finger,  Aegir also raised his now both of their fingers intertwined with each other.

Aegir's whimpering died down,  a sweet smile etched on his pink lips;  trusting fully what Anthony had said.  He wasn't still sure if he loved his master but one thing he's sure of... He won't let him leave. 

Aegir suddenly remembered what the alpaca tasked him to do.  He slid his hand inside his jeans to take the box. ”By the way,  master.  I want to give you something. “ Aegir broke from their embrace. He took Anthony's palm who were quite bewildered by Aegir's sudden action.

Anthony felt like choking when he saw Aegir's ring finger.  He saw a silver ring wrapped around Aegir's slender finger.  He's not dumb not to assume that whatever it is inside on the velvet box Aegir placed on his palm was not a ring. 

He stared at the box absent-mindedly.  He never made a sound nor a move when Aegir opened the box,  proving his suspicions correct—it was indeed a silver ring.  Their designs weren't the same,  Anthony's ring has a raven's face and wings engraved.  Its eyes were made of violet colored stones. 

He's really trying to push the idea of that identical ring aside.  Perhaps it's just a gift and a coincidence.  He's trying so hard but his mind went into the gutter.

Anthony's words couldn't reach his tongue,  he was adamantly trying to think straight but all his mind could see was a blank sheet.  Almost like a foreign fire ignited his heart as he felt Aegir locked gazes with him.  His cheek tainted red almost like newly bloomed roses in spring.

He couldn't hear anything but the sound of his own heartbeat.  And any minute from now... perhaps he'll get insane.

Aegir took the box again and now he slid the ring to Anthony's cold ring finger just like Cross had instructed him.   He mustered a triumphant smile as he saw how the ring fit perfectly on Anthony's finger.

He looked at Anthony who was now red from his face down to his neck.  Aegir didn't know why Anthony looked this way because of a ring.  But it doesn't look bad.  For Aegir,  his master's appearance seemed adorable.

Aegir explained to Anthony about the ring and when it dawned on him; Anthony placed both of his hands on his face—trying to cover his embarrassed face.

Of course,  why would he think it was an engagement ring out of all things?! What's wrong with him?

Although he couldn't push away the feeling of disappointment upon learning that the ring wasn't from Aegir.  Now,  Anthony could now slowly discern that whatever's happening to him right now was something not normal.

He has an idea but his rational mind wants to push it aside.  He suddenly has the urge to consult a therapist or he'll go nuts.

And it wasn't just Anthony who fell down the rabbit hole that day.  When Anthony went to the kitchen to prepare some snacks,  Aegir went to read the books Vin had given him.  Aegir wished that he shouldn't have opened it because the images stayed on his mind—creating various scenarios.

It was a series of books about two men's romantic journey with each other.  They were affectionately staring at each other on the book's cover and even worse—the cover for series two is the same men… kissing.

-

Artemisia felt a presence walking straight to her shop.  She immediately went down the stairs with her usual old hag disguise.  She knew that this person is not someone that's part of people because they knew nothing about the magic mirror portal. 

She finds this person dubious.  They're not her patrons on her side business either.  She got no new appointment for today.

She sat by the blood red sofa,  waiting for the person to come.  Eventually,  the door of her shop creaked open and a man stepped in.  The man's face was dead serious but there's something in his eyes that shows deep fear and it's not directed to Artemisia or her shop but to an entirely different reason. 

The man was familiar,  as Artemisia stared at the man;  she remembered his face.  He was Saint and Anthony and Aegir knew him.

Why was he here?

Artemisia decided to stay put and hear what Saint has to say.  When Saint found her by the sofa;  he quickened his pace as if he's really eager to talk to her.  Artemisia could tell that there's something bothering him. Artemisia could read him and by what energy she could pick up from him—she started to worry.

When Saint was already in front of her,  she saw his hands shaking,  trying his best to speak.  ”I should've gone to Anthony but I figured out it's best to come here. I know your secrets but don't worry I don't intend to tell it.  In fact,  I am here to give you some information, “ Saint's voice was stuttering.  Whatever information he had took a toll on him because of the presence of dark and heavy eye bags dangling below his eyes.

Artemisia wasn't prepared on what Saint told her.  She could tell that he wasn't lying because the veracity of this information may even endanger this human's life but he chose not to hide it.

Well, Anthony and Aegir deserved some rest and time together. I am not that evil and even these chapters contribute to the plot.

Some character details below: