A/N: AGAIN ! I tried AGAIN to beat the true final boss in the game... but I lost again after a third and fourth time. Although, I made sure to level up all my travelers at lvl 80, and also used 3 advanced classes for my first team, but each time, that damn boss and its "zombies" keep beating my whole team ! WHY IT IS SO HARD ?! I'VE HEARD SOME PEOPLE BEAT HIM AT LVL 50 !!! WAS MY STRATEGY BAD ?!!!

... Sorry. I just wanted to let go. I still haven't finished the game, but I want to finish it before I could play Pokemon Sword which will releases in less than a month(I'm gonna take Scorbunny btw, his leaked evolution looks cool).

By the way, I've forgotten to tell you in the previous chapter that I don't have an editor for my story anymore. In reality, @celaenamoon was pretty busy with her studies and took 1 month to edit one chapter: she is now in secondary school and had so many work :( . I understand that she wanted to de-prioritize anything which wasn't related to her studies, cause me too I had many hard studies...

So, I'm gonna now edit my fanfic myself as I did before, but I would like to thank her again to have helped me for a while !

Also, I swear it was totally unintentionnal, but Travis's powers remind me a little of Sonic... But not the classic or modern sonic from the video games, but the live action version from the upcoming movie.

You know, after the first trailer was released a few months ago, the fans were angry because sonic's redesign was bad... Thankfully they changed the design in a more faithful and cartoonish design at the last trailer they just released a few moments ago! And several times, we could see the blue bur letting a blue electric trail when he run, just like Travis ! Was it a coincidence ?!

Anyway, this A/N seems too long for your taste, and it's not a sonic fanfic here. So, let's get started !

~Primrose's POV~

The morning was the period of the day which the tavern is less crowded, but the noisy and musical ambiance of the place was still clearly present. The stage's curtains were widely opened, but no one was on the scene.

Indeed, the other dancing girls have already finished their show and were now seducing a few customers spread everywhere at the tables.

I spotted one of my comrades, Melissa, approaching a middle-aged man, drinking beer in an abundant quantity alongside with his wealthy associates.

The woman observed him with a seducing glare, as she slowly caressed his clothes with her fingertip.

"What a beautiful tux, my sir...", she complimented him.

"He he... Thanks, beauty...", he answered nervously.

"Is that a new one ?"

"Of course... I made it myself... But I think the texture was softer than it was supposed to be."

"Oh, I see... Can I see it closer ?..."

She watched at him with now an innocent glare, turning the rich man's cheek red, when he grinned.

"Come here, sweet cheeks."

He let the attractive woman sitting on his legs, as he was now succumbing to her charms. They both chuckled while he gave her some money, which she accepted without hesitation.

It was often the same thing in that place for us: when we didn't dance on stage, we make sure to seduce some customers by pleasing them in exchange for money we gather for Helgenish's sake. Of course, the customers were having fun in our company, and a few of them would only visit that place for the girls and neither for eating or drinking.

It was hard to believe this tavern was my workplace: the kingdom of Orsterra might have forbidden that kind of job, but, especially in the Sunlands which also belonged to the Triberia kingdom, there were still people who practiced that activity. At Sunshade, it was Helgenish the responsible for that illegal activity, and he would often give bribes to hide that from the rest of the world.

I was redoing my ponytail, and it was soon my turn to dance solo on stage.

Because of my astonishing performance, I was the only one who would dance alone in my show, while the 4 other dancers always danced together before it was my turn. We taught me that dancing alone gives us more spotlight and attention from the audience than when we dance in a group.

I was ready to dance as always, but for a reason or another, something disturbed me. It was neither the customers or the noisy ambiance of the tavern which annoyed me... I was just thinking about that boy.

Working only for seducing mature men, I've never got along with children, so I wasn't very used on how to deal with them. However, I must admit that I took good care of him despite he was a stranger, but he looked clearly different compared to other kids I've met.

He wasn't like the little girl I've spotted yesterday: indeed, maybe he was also a fan of me, but he was instead aware of my poor situation and showed any mercy for my own person. That's right: Travis was such a pretty nice and caring boy, quite polite and cheerful. He even reminded me of myself when I was a kid too, although I had a more calm personality I inherited from my father.

He might be still innocent and sweet as children of his age, but it was rare to see such a compassionate soul. How such a compassionate soul could live alone in these streets ?

I didn't understand why he wanted absolutely to go to Atlasdam. Does he have any family there ? Or was he hiding me a secret else ?

"Make way, please !", said a waitress carrying a meal.

"Oh ! Sorry ! I was absent-minded !"

I let her pass as I was right in the passage, ignoring the customers admiring me.

Honestly, after he showed up on stage, I really thought I wouldn't see him anymore and he would retrieve his family, but now, it wasn't the case. All I wanted, is that he was safe in that dangerous, and I must admit it wasn't a good idea to leave him alone in the streets...

Unfortunately, I don't really have time to play the babysitter. I have to find more information about one of my father's killers.

It was a special day at the tavern: a lot of wealthy people from every land of Orsterra will come here to watch my special show. This time, I'll use my darkness magic Helgenish taught me in a special dance I've called the Moonlight Waltz. A lot of people will be present in the evening to watch me, so there will be a little chance one of the crow men show up.

I couldn't wait... after 10 long years... to finally have the opportunity to find one of the men who took my father from me... and to plant my dagger right into his heart.

Yeah... I could still feel a cold and deep hate towards these bastards like I did every day as long as my thirst of revenge must be accomplished, and this envy to kill grew up each time I was getting closer to my goal.... What could stop me now ?

I slowly calmed myself.

When I was befriending with this boy, I just noticed my anger was temporarily gone, left behind. Indeed, I couldn't believe his presence would calm down my anger, and it looked like I wasn't myself... Or what if I was still myself, when I cared for Travis instead of my fate ?

I don't understand why was I worrying about something not important... Why can't I stop worrying for that child ? Why have I left behind my faith for that boy I barely know ? Why should I care for him ?

"Primrose ?", said calmly a voice.

It was Yusufa. She observed me by showing certain worrying of my sake.

She spoke back.

"You were lost in our thoughts. Are you fine ?"

"Yeah, yeah... I was just remembering about the man who tried to steal your bracelet yesterday..."

"You mean the man who attempted to abuse you ?... I'm sorry about that. It's a little my fault: I should have been more careful with my stuff."

"Non, no. You're not to blame.", I responded her, while I looked with mistrust at the crowded bazaar outside. "These times, I find Sunshade has never been such a risky town to wander before. Instead of "the city of the thousand pleasures", we should call "the city of the thousand dangers"."

Yusufa smiled.

"You know, I think you need to sleep longer. It's better to be the best in shape. Since a moment, I find you slightly more tired than before."

"It's alright. I just have some trouble sleeping, these times..."

"Oh, I'm just worrying for you, Primrose..."

"COME ON ! GET OVER HERE, DEARIE !", yelled a man at her, while eating impatiently his meal alongside with his neighbours.

They must be waiting for her.

"Sorry, I have to go...", told me Yusufa.

"Me too, I mustn't dally longer.", I answered her while looking at the stagehand who waved at me.

As Yusufa went towards the group who called her, I advised her.

"Try not to let anyone steeling your bracelet, okay ?"

"Okay !"

For once, in that cursed town, Yusufa was the only person whom I cared the most.

She was a girl quite shy and calm, but she was normally kind and polite towards people. While Melissa, Violet or Ellie were all pretty and arrogant women who wanted to take my place as the star of the tavern, Yusufa just wanted to do her best, but she wasn't the best dancer, so it was pretty frequent to see Helgenish sermonizing her, or even worse...

She seemed to like me for what I was doing for her: when the other girls would make fun of her, I would stand up to take her defense, and when Helgenish would abuse her, I would consol her and be the only person whom she could speak. And now, she was worrying for me at her turn.

Actually, I had a job to do, and even the crowd looked quite impatient.

I joined the stagehand, who looked annoyed.

"Kept us waiting long enough, Primrose.", he sighed.

"I was... fixing my hair."

"Heh. It better've been worth it. You're our best chance at getting to eat tonight. And the customers have been waiting."

I noticed that the worried man had a bruise on his face.

That's right: we, dancing girls, weren't the only victims of Helgenish's abusement. Even the rest of his employees were scared to not always perfect in their job, including this man a front of me or the poor delivery man from yesterday. Only his guards were really devoted to him, even if it was rare to see one being beaten up by Helgenish himself.

After adjusting one last time my necklace, I climbed the stairs, while saying.

"... Let's the show begins."

I went on stage, as all the tavern cheered and clapped at my presence.

"It's her !"

"Yeaaaah !"

"She looks like a nymph !"

It was now the time to give them a wonderful show, no matter if they deserve it or not.

The music started to play as I danced gracefully under the glare of the crowd.

Watch over me, Father... That day, I swore revenge against the men who took you from me: the three marked by the crow.

My once proud house fallen, I left home far behind, following their trail... That trail has led me here.

I heard one of them often passes through here on his travels. It was the smallest scrap of hope... but it was all I had. Until I find him, there is no disgrace I will not endure. Losing my honor is nothing compared of the pain of losing you.

Father... I will not stop until I find the three and see justice served, and until I avenge you... I will dance.

~Travis's POV~

"That will cost 3 leaves, young man."

"Here."

I gave the coin to the baker, as he provided me an hot bun.

"Be careful, it's all warm."

"Thanks !..."

CRUNCH !

"Mmh... it's so warm !"

This hot bun was clearly the most warm bread I've ever bread, even if it was the very first one. However, it wasn't as good as the cold piece of breads I was used to steal in the real world, it was a good piece of bread I've bought myself with the money I got. It was pretty nice that I started to be used to live in that video game world.

There was so many people at the market that people called "bazaar", and everyone were dressed with light clothes, like men wearing turbans, or veiled women who wanted to go unnoticed. The sun was still so hot that some people were dressed with only a slip and a turban.

Heat started to sweat my face, but thankfully, Primrose offered me a gourd of freshwater for permitting me to hydrate myself.

I make a stop in order to drink a little, when a carriage rolled towards me.

"Watch out, little guy !"

I moved at the side in time, before the vehicle would rush forward me, when I noticed it was harnessed by an animal, who surprised me.

"HEEEE HAAAAAW !"

I jumped in place, surprised by the donkey.

What a strange animal !

I continued to make my way, making my way between the bystanders and observing my surroundings.

"My carpets ! Who want my beautiful luxury carpets ! Hey, my lady... Does one carpet has caught your attention. I've a wonderful price to propose you !"

"BAAAAHH !", bleated a goat.

A bunch of stalls were present at the place of the town, but unlike at Rippletide, most of them were just a large carpet with the seller showing all of their astonishing merchandise. We could find a lot of things: fruits, clothes, and even baskets made of straw were sold at every size. I guessed the merchant was selling them to help customers who had bought so much in the market.

For the moment, I haven't spotted any camel in that town, and the only one I saw was just a skeleton. All what I've seen was just some wild cats, a goat, and also that donkey who looked too peaceful for an animal transporting so many merchandises. I just wanted to see an animal who lived in the desert like in the books, but it looks like the books didn't always show the truth.

What a quite animated city...

When I was in that exotic town, it was like I was inside a book, a bit like that famous tale which take place in a town like this, which tells the story of a man who find a magic lamp with a genie inside and make a wonderful wish. If ever I have one magic lamp too, without hesitation, I'll ask to have apples at will !

However, I didn't have any magic lamp yet, but I have something else interesting.

Blip ! Blip ! Blip !

"Oh !"

I moved away from the crowd, and took out of sight my compass which continued to cause a little red light to flicker.

Blip ! Blip ! Blip !

"Shhh !... Quiet !"

The noise stopped, but the red light was still there, showing me a particular direction I must go.

That thing was quite weird: it wasn't supposed to work like this... Did the captain Leon ever know about that ?!

I have no idea... Though, something tell me this red light wasn't there by hazard and that it could be something precious like a treasure.

I watched again at my compass.

"Where is it, now..."

That's it ! I'm gonna do a treasure hunt to keep myself busy before I could go to Atlasdam ! Perhaps I would really find a treasure, and sell it at a good price like how Tressa would did ! Too bad she wasn't there to see this !

"Over there !"

I followed the direction, by passing through the crowd and some narrow streets, moving away from the bazaar.

I also made sure to stay discreet and furtive, so no one would see my compass, because it would be too weird for people living in the middle age to see a modern thing !

C'mon, Travis ! Just act like a ninja !

While hiding myself behind a wall, I noticed the red point was closer from the center of the compass. That meant I was close !

"Target spotted !", I grinned happily, admired by that new toy.

According to my calculations, the treasure must be just after that street corner.

So I went at the right and

"HEEE HAAAAAW !"

"Aaah !"

I fell backward, surprised by the animal's appearance.

Wait... Does the red dot was in reality that donkey ?!

I stared  again at my compass to verify.

No. The red dot doesn't point that donkey...

That was bad luck. I think I should be more careful to the position shown by the compass, and gees, that animal has the talent to look disturbing when he needed to !

By the way, I noticed the signal moved to a different position when I fell. What was the meaning of this ? Did the treasure wanted to fly away ?

I don't know, but if I want the answer, I have to follow that new direction.

"No one at my left. No one at my right... Here we go !"

I continued my hunt by borrowing ways through diverse areas of Sunshade I've never seen before, between a narrow street inhabited by a family of cats, or a long street where were patrolling some guards.

According to the compass, the signal came from the right, and went left, by crossing all the length of the compass and passing below the center, like he was...

Right behind me.

I suddenly felt a presence, a great presence behind me which was so important that it freaked me out.

Feeling someone walking behind me, I finally have the courage to turn back, and to see a man with such a menacing aura, quite similar at the yellow helmet's man.

However, it wasn't him. The man looked to large and heavy to be him, even is he hasn't a weird helmet too. The person wore a large cloak as impressing as his stature, just like the hoodie making him look frightening, and his very muscled arms were covered by black bandages.

He looked pretty serious, and he wasn't only an intimidating man... I was sure he was much more than that.

"Could it be ?...", I watched again at my compass, and said in a quite serious tone. "Yes. That's him !"

I verified 3 times again, and this person was indeed what the compass was pointing. So, either that person has found the treasure, or he "was" the treasure.

Anyway, I decided to spy him.

Not too close...

This time, I became more careful and discreet while following him, but I was more determined to find out what he was hiding.

Who was this man ? Why was he so strange ?

"Oh !"

I noticed something inside his pocket, but it was too quick to see.

So, while walking 10 meters behind him, and hiding at each obstacle I could find, I waited he turned at the left, and used my sharp eyes to look for any details, when I smiled.

There's the treasure !

~Primrose's POV~

It's been only almost a quart of hour I was dancing, and some of the customers have already drunk 3 pints of beer while contemplating my show.

The sound of the cymbals permitted to combine my dancing style and the music at the perfection, while I felt myself in another world, in another dimension from that tavern.

I spun again, again, and again, realized my best stepping step at the right time, and I smiled calmly to confirm how much I liked my passion. It's like I couldn't stop myself, that my fate was to dance during all my life, while I felt nothing but passion, and anger.

Suddenly, something was wrong.

I felt an headache, my vision started to be blurred, I couldn't hear the music and the customers anymore, but I still continued to dance, as I knew the music by heart.

The pain covered my eye, that I immediately hid from the public during my show.

"Aaaahh..."

Not again... Especially right now !...

FLASH !

I was back again...

Again in my nightmarish visions.

Lost in that morbid atmosphere.

I then a voice calling.

"Sir Geoffrey !"

SLASH !

"AAAAARGH !!!..."

A guard was agonizing on the stairs of my house, alongside with others guards who have been killed.

FLASH !

I was back to me, still dancing, but I was shocked.

"Be my queen !"

Ignoring the crowd, my eye turned blue again.

FLASH !

"I'm afraid you've been poking your nose into the latter."

"I have only done as my convictions bade me do. I have no regrets."

SLASH !

"Father !"

The scream echoed again, tormenting me in such a painful headache, as I saw again my poor father surrounded by the crow men, hidden in my 13 years old me.

Still the same scene, still the same nightmare....

FLASH !

"Look at the thighs !"

"I want her to be my wife !"

What was going on ?! I never had so many following crises before !

"Aargh..."

FLASH !

That wasn't over yet. I was now dancing in my own vision, just like the place was a dancing stage.

I find myself as a girl, in my peach-colored dress, walking towards a familiar hallway, leading to a slightly opened door.

I've never seen that vision even before. It was something new.

I walked curiously at the door.

"Father ?"

My childish voice echoed through my ears, as I peered at the door.

I observed my father desk, full of old parchments which I've never seen before. They didn't seem to be the kind of documents my father was used to work on.

I then watched at the left.

"Be careful with that. Make sure no one finds him."

It was my father talking to someone. I don't know why, but he looked worried.

In his hand, I noticed something shiny, like a jewel. An orange-red jewel which shined like blood.

What is that mysterious stone ?

He gave him at someone else that I could barely see.

So, I tried to enter in the room, but before I could see the other person, a bright light appeared.

FLASH !

"Aah !"

I was back on stage. The music was over. Everything happened in an instant.

"Yeaaaahhh !"

The customers cheered with their glass in the hand, and some whistled gracefully.

"I think I'm in love !"

I was too shocked that I didn't pay attention to the customers.

What was that thing ?!

I stayed on place, completely concerned, as I reminded what I've seen.

I've never seen that kind of vision before, but it didn't take the form of a nightmare... It looked like... a lost memory.

But was that vision of the past true ? Or that scene was just a picture of my head ?

No... It cannot be my imagination... All of this was real...

I was sure this vision was true. I started to remember, now, the same scene, the same ambiance, and the two persons I've witnessed that day, but it occurred 10 years ago, so I didn't have a clear head yet about this.

What exactly was Aisenma trying to show me, this time ?

What was that strange jewel which made my father worried ?

Who was the person who has been with him at this moment ?

If only my vision lasted longer...

"How about a private show, darling ?"

My attention went back to the customers, who were still as excited as my dance was graceful.

I took a huge breath and calmed down, before smiling innocently at the audience.

"You are all too kind. And too handsome, I might add."

No one have seen it yet...

That was close... If I wasn't a better dancer, my secret would have been revealed. Anyway, not a single customer in that tavern would have noticed, especially when they have drunk so much while their eyes are too focused on the beautiful shapes of my hip and my chest instead of my eyes.

As I received the cheering of the crowd, I left the stage, when I saw the stagehand man applauding as well.

"Not bad, Primrose. Not bad."

"Thank you."

He stared at me curiously.

"Tell me, Primrose. Is your eye hurting you ?"

"Ah... It's nothing. I might have... stared to much at the sun's light outside..."

I had to tell him a lie. Despite the superb show I gave, he might has noticed something was wrong when I got that vision.

"I see. Could you permit me... if I could watch ?"

I had no choice but to accept his request.

So, I let him examining my both eyes, no without he was dazzled by how beautiful they were.

"Hmm... There's nothing wrong... Sorry to have annoyed you with that.", he apologized as a gentleman.

"No, no. It's fine..."

I could understand his curiosity. Everyone in Sunshade have heard about that infamous disease, and most of the citizen would be frightened to catch it. Even Helgenish himself shivered by the simple mention of that disease, and wouldn't hesitate to get rid of any sapphire-eyed person.

The stagehand watched at my feet.

"Hm ? Look at your sandals. Seems you've gone and broken a strap."

I watched at my right sandal and noticed it was quite deteriorated. It might be caused by my lack of rhythm when I got that vision.

"Go back to the dormitory and fetch yourself another pair.", he asked me.

"Most happily."

I went through the tavern, observed by dozens of looks of customers fantasying over me while eating, drinking and laughing in group.

I passed next to a pair of guards who were discussing.

"Have you heard the bad news ?"

"Uhh ? No ?"

"There was one pillar of purple light which appeared somewhere in the Highlands !"

"Again ! It's the third time of the week that this phenomenon appear !"

"..."

First a blue eye... Then a orange-red crystal... And now a purple pillar of light... Why does the weirdest things have to be related with colors ?

I've heard about that rumor of pillars of light before, rumor which has been finally confirmed because there were too many testimonies. I didn't have any idea for why these phenomenons had occurred, and if they were originally natural or not.

Though, a lot of stranger things have happened these times: there are recently more crimes occurred in Sunshade, I had more crises than usually, and the shocking news which told a village in the Woodlands has been attacked and destroyed by a creature while it was right next to where one of the pillar of light have suddenly appeared. Was it a pure coincidence ?

What was going on, nowadays ? Why do I have to worry about ? Shouldn't I care for something more important ?

~Travis's POV~

He walks so slowly...

I continued to follow that guy since a moment, but spying over someone seemed harder than I expected. We have to make sure to not get noticed without losing any trace, just like a spy. For the moment, I was sure he hasn't seen me yet.

But where is he going ?...

He was calmly walking through the streets without really caring about other bystanders, and I must admit that thanks to him, I discover the city of Sunshade. I was actually in a less crowded area which was calmer and darker, but it was still hot with that sun.

After he turned at the left, I profited to stand against the wall discreetly, before drinking some water.

I never knew spying was pretty exhausting...

"My melon ! Who want one of my juicy melon !", called happily a voice from the street.

I peered from the street corner, which was lightly more crowded, and observed there was street vendor who was selling big melons, which looked very fresh and juicy. These fruits were so appetizing that I wanted to buy one, but I have a mission to do and I must stay hidden.

The man with the large coat continued to walk across the streets, and created a not very assuring atmosphere.

I know we shouldn't judge people by their appearance, but I found him very suspicious. He looked very strange, and I was wondering what was this crystal he was keeping safe. Maybe he was a friend of the man with the yellow helmet...

If he was, it would be a disaster ! That could mean he was looking for me to capture me and to bring me to the yellow helmet man. Worse, he might also harm people in this town for finding me.

I refuse to let that happen ! I need to know more about this guy and what was that thing in that pocket. If I could know where he was going and where he was hiding, I will surely have an advantage !

Something tell me that I won't longer stand idly in that city until the carriage arrive.

I watched him turning in place, and walking towards the merchant of melons.

I don't feel it right... I still don't feel it right at all... He's gonna hurt him...

"I would like one melon, please."

WHAAAAAATTT ?!!!

~Primrose's POV~

I need to go back at the dorm and to take a new sandal, as I already have trouble walking with the scrapped one.

I entered to the dorm, where I found the rest of the girls.

While Yusufa was keeping carefully her hair tidied, the rest of the dancers were chattering in their own corner.

What are they hiding ?

Whatever. I went to the bench and noticed a pair of brand-new sandals, like I wanted, ready to be tried.

So, I removed my used sandal, and put on my barefoot in the new one.

"Ow !"

I felt a pain in my foot, that I didn't hesitated to remove it carefully from the sandal.

A thorn... ?

My foot started to bleed as I drew everyone's attention.

"Oh, someone fetch a handkerchief ! Primrose seems to be bleeding, the poor dear.", exclaimed Melissa.

"Perhaps she got a blister ? She's always dancing oh so passionately.", chuckled Ellie.

The dancing girls all giggled by watching at me, excepted Yusufa who rushed worryingly at me.

"Are you all right, Prim ?"

I managed to endure the pain.

"I'm fine. It's nothing I haven't dealt with before."

Yusufa, quite pissed, didn't hesitate to stand up to the others girls.

"Don't you think  that's enough already ? Do you take such pleasure in other's pain ? We're nothing but the master's playthings... all of us ! And we all know  what happens to the girls who displease him. Or have you forgotten ? Beaten half to death and tossed in the gutter. Left for dead, sick and starving, just like Clara."

The mention of that name made the others girls shivering in place.

We all remembered well of Clara: she was a dancing girl, like all of us, who came from a noble family which went broke before she arrived at Sunshade.

She was pretty, attractive, and her blonde hair was magnificent, but she was also very arrogant, and didn't enjoy to be pushed around. She was pretty good for dancing, and was considered like the second best dancer behind me according to our master. However, she never supported him, and thought she deserved more than this miserable life, dreaming to quickly rise through the ranks.

One day at the tavern, she wanted to have a serious discussion with Helgenish by seducing him directly, in order to negotiate about her future. Then, our master, who seemed amused by her behavior, accepted to request and they went together to talk in his office. Since that day, nobody saw her after that.

That incident encouraged us to not mess with our master anymore.

Violet began to stress.

"S-stop that ! We all know well enough where we stand. We know what he can do to us !"

"Then why torment one of our own ?", asked Yusufa.

All the girls stayed silent.

I've never seen Yusufa acting like that: it was pretty rare to see her imposing herself to her comrades.

I gently tapped her shoulder.

"Thank you, Yusufa. But there's no need for you to make foes on my behalf."

"Prim..."

The door brutally opened.

"WHAT ARE YOU DOING,  YOWLING BACK HERE !? SHEATH YOUR CLAWS. IT'S TIME FOR WORK ! OR DO YOU THINK MONEY FLOWS INTO MY COFFERS BY ITSELF !? GET OUT THERE AND COLLECT YOUR TIPS !"

It was Helgenish, more furious than ever.

We stayed as calm as possible and headed to the door.

"Not you, Primrose. You stay.", ordered me Helgenish.

The other girls left, including Yusufa who exchanged me a worried look before leaving.

I was now alone with Helgenish, who showed a somber expression as he turned his back on me.

"What was that sorry show you gave today ?"

"..."

He must have noticed my lack of technique in my dance that morning.

He turned at me furiously.

"DO YOU THINK I'M BLIND ?!", he yelled, before he crossed his arms. "One glance was all I needed to know your mind was not where it ought to be. I can see every thought in that pretty, empty little head  of yours... and they were not of dancing tonight."

"..."

I still didn't dare to say anything, I don't have any reason to provoke him more.

He started to approach me.

"You haven't forgotten your debts now, have you ? You haven't forgotten who owns you.", he stared at me by holding my chin."You know the fate that awaits you if you dare defy me. Don't you, kitten ?"

I nodded, with an upset expression, when he smirked.

"I'm warning you because I care, Primrose. I wouldn't want to see anything untoward happen to my shining star.", he slowly caressed my cheek.

"... I'm sorry, Master. Forgive me. I was simply remembering the first day I came here to you.", I apologized, by taking an innocent look.

"Oh, were you now ?", he looked interested.

I continued to pursue my lie.

"Not a day... not a  moment passes when I am not thankful for all you have given to me. Pray  forgive my lack of focus today, Master. It will not happen again."

"Oh, my dear, dear Primrose."

He then walked across the room, as he felt nostalgic.

"I, too, often think back on the day you came to my door. Just imagining the sight of you  dancing for me, as sweet and innocent as you were... It tickled me so. And you met my every expectation. You have been my best investment."

"..."

I must admit that he cared more for me than any of the other girls reunited.

He continued.

"But that morning, you have displeased me. And for this, you must atone. The crowd is looking thin  today. Out on the streets with you, and bring us some custom. Custom with coin enough to cover a week's expenses. If you can do that, I may  still... go easy on you... At least relatively so, kitten."

He slowly put his bear hands on my shoulders, without I prevented him to.

"You are kind, Master."

As usual, he became more and more suspicious each time I become less trustworthy. He was imagining so much that the future of the tavern's show would depend of my talents and my performance, but if ever I didn't answer his expectations anymore, he will definitely hate me forever.

Next time I'll dance a show, I must be very careful to any Aisenma crises; even if I can't prevent my eye to turn blue, I can still anticipate it and make sure to dance better with one eye opened.

I went outside and saw Yusufa who seemed cheerful.

"Bravo, Prim. That was a performance for the ages. How do you do it ? I want to vomit every time I have to call him "Master"!"

She has been waiting for me at the exit, which made me concerned.

"... What are you doing here ? Shouldn't you be out collecting tips ?"

"I was worried about you. How is your foot ?"

"What ?"

The wound of my foot was still slowly bleeding. It's been a long time I haven't supported any injury, and the pain of a thorn had nothing to do with a simple mosquito bite.

"Here. Use this."

"A handkerchief ?"

Following Yusufa's advice, I took the handkerchief and wrapped it tight around the wound, making sure the blood wouldn't flow anymore. It worked incredibly well, as I felt better in my sandals, and my steps didn't hurt me so much anymore.

"Be careful out there, okay ?", told me Yusufa, before she went back at the tavern.

Since I've left my house in search of my father's murderers, Yusufa was one of the few people who supported me. Me too, I was used to provide her help when she has a problem, unlike the rest of the girls neglected her.

Even if I mostly cared for my ambitions, living and working with her for years permitted us to know more about each other and to become good friends. Although I was surprised when she took my defense, I didn't want her to give her more problems because of me, and I preferred she stays out of my affairs.

But Yusufa wasn't the only person I've helped: there was also Travis whom I invited her to sleep at our dorm. He too, in exchange, seemed to owe me a debt and he doesn't enjoyed my situation.

The main problem when we help each other is that we also shared our problems, our woes, and others could pay instead of me. This is why I wanted to pursue my mission alone, without any help from anyone, and if ever I help someone, this person would help me in return and take some risks for me.

Though, I must admit it's quite selfish from me, but do I have any other choice ? Do I must really forget Travis, and let him alone on his own ? Or should I help him ?

I don't know, but for the moment, I have to get back to work and collect tips from customers as usually. The master also wanted we lure especially rich people to the tavern, and tonight is a special night where more wealthy people coming from all the land of Orsterra than usually.

As I arrived to the bazaar, I noticed a group of neatly dressed men who were visiting the place. They looked to be people doing a business trip, who were just discovering the city of pleasures.

Well, time to put on a different kind of show. These ones looks to be the likely sort.

I smiled lightly and approached towards the well-heeled group of gentlemen.

"What a wonderful city !"

"I thought the city of thousand pleasures was just a legend !"

"Hello..."

"Oh hello !"

They looked a little surprised, but seemed sympathetic as they saluted me politely.

"Lovely morning... isn't it, my lords ? Mayhap you'd care to share it with me ?", I responded them with a soft sensuous voice, taking an attractive pose.

The group all blushed and chuckled, when one of the gentleman said.

"A tempting offer, but we travel on business. We must depart early at midday."

"Yeah, we're sorry, miss."

"Maybe... you will find someone else."

I slowly approached them closer.

"Hmmm... It must be a fascinating sort of business that you do. Perhaps you could tell me more over a drink ? I'd love to get to... know you better."

I put gracefully my hands over my hip, as they started to become hesitant and nervous.

"I-I am most afraid... We cannot..."

"W-we told you... we have to go..."

I chuckled.

"I dance at the tavern just down the street. I'd be happy to put on a show... just for you."

I gave them a dancing show a front of them, spinning gracefully in the middle of the bazaar.

Their eyes widened at my performance, when I asked calmly.

"Admit it, now. Wouldn't you care to spend a little more time with me ?", I winked at them.

All their faces became red like a tomato.

"Oh... Oh my, I cannot resist such beauty..."

"Me neither... We could still wait tomorrow, right guys ?!"

"Y-yeah ! We'll find an excuse !"

"Pray come hither...", I told them calmly.

That was easy.

Now I was followed by a group of new admirers, we went back towards the tavern which slowly started to be well crowded.

I had such an incredible talent to lure men with a fragile psyche, and I was so good that I could seduce several person at a time. They already looked interested by the place and the rest of the dancers, so I guess we have 4 new regulars customers, and rich ones, moreover.

I advised them to take a table, what they did without asking question.

"...!!!"

There's such a strange presence, somewhere in Sunshade... I've a bad feeling about this...

~Travis's POV~

I expected anything but that !

CRUNCH !

"Mmhh..."

He ate calmly the fruit in place, and we couldn't still his face when he was eating.

What a gourmet...

I could even say he has such a voracious appetite !

When he was eating, his upper left arm wasn't hidden by his shirt, and I noticed something interesting.

An enormous tattoo was on his muscle, and it has the form of a bird... actually, it was a raven. What a cool tattoo, but I've heard raven only lived in forests and in fields... unless I was wrong.

Indeed, this tattoo was pretty special, so this guy now seemed even more suspicious. Was this tattoo only to make it prettier ?

He finished his melon and wiped his mouth.

"Delicious. I'll take two more, please."

"Two more ? Ar' ye sure about that ?"

He nodded.

"As ye like it, sir."

There ! The crystal in his pocket ! I must take it from him while he's busy and flee the furthest possible from him.

Here's my chance !

Suddenly, my compass got snatched from my hand.

"Uh ?!"

"HE HE HE HE HE !"

A skinny man wearing only a short just stole me the compass when I was distracted.

"Hey ! My compass !"

"Thanks for the gift, little guy !"

He started to flee from where I came from, but I chased him.

"Give it back to me !"

No way I would let him take my compass ! It's a gift from captain Leon !

He continued to run while smirking, passing and turning through the streets, pushing some people in his way.

"Aaaahhh !"

"Sorry !", I apologized while running.

He then snatched a jewel from another merchant.

"THIEF ! THIEF !", called a man while pointing at the responsible.

I followed the man who went through a farmyard of chickens, as I did the same.

"CLUCK !"

He then jumped through the window, and passed across the house where a man was taking his bath in his pool, splashing him, but I continued to pursue him closely.

SPLASH !

"HEY !"

"SORRY, SIR !"

We jumped out of another window, when he turned at the left, and arrived in an inhabited building, which was a dead end.

"ARGH !"

He slipped and fell in the middle of the room, as I finally cornered him.

"Ahh... Ahh...", he was exhausted by his run, when I approached him angrily, making him stepping back. "Please, don't hurt me !... I shouldn't have done that... I'm so sorry !..."

"Okay... So, give it back to me, please.", I advised him with a serious tone.

I noticed the place, filled of pillars and sand, looked pretty old and damaged, despite it could still host a lot of persons.

Wait...

The skinny thief stood up.

"Okay... he he ! HELP !!! GUYS !!!"

Suddenly, a dozen of men appeared from nowhere in the building, all smirking at me.

"He he he he !..."

Bandits !...

I turned back to see some of them blocking the exit.

I'm surrounded !

I'm really in trouble ! They must have been hiding there since the beginning before putting me in that damn trap !

"As we say: rapped like a fish in a net !", said a large bald and shirtless man, who reached 2 meters of height and looked to be the boss of these men, when he watched at the skinny man. "Well done to have lured him here !"

"Oh boss, this boy was such an easy target !", he smirked while giving him my compass.

Everyone were amused when the boss looked down at me.

"Hey, mah boy: does yer parents have ever taught ye to not stick one's head in the lion's mouth ?"

"What do you want from me ? I was kind of busy !", I retorted.

"AH AH AH AH AH AH !"

"The little rat is getting angry !"

All these bandits mocking over me... it's like I had a feeling of déjà vu.

The boss also chuckled as well.

"Don't worry, we're honest men who just want to help ye to not getting tired of carrying yer heavy bag. The solution, I mean MY solution, is that we're gonna rob ye until ye have nothing left, so ye won't have to carry anything but yer clothes !"

"No way, you bunch of gorillas!", I yelled angrily, holding tight my bag."If you want my stuff, you will have to go through me !"

With the tone I took, I'm sure I must have impressed them !

A small silence occurred in the building...

"Pffff... HA HA HA HA HA HA HA HA HA HA HA !"

"This little rat thinks he's a tiger !"

They still didn't believe me yet.

Why does no one ever want to take me seriously ?...

"Like the brat as wished, guys... let's the party begin ! Go catch him !", ordered the boss.

"HAAAAAA !!!!"

The closest ones started to go after me for catching me.

Look like I have no choice...

I should have watched my back before pursuing one of them, but now, I have to fight them myself if I want to retrieve the compass and get out.

I clenched my fists and stayed in position, before jumping right towards the bandit a front of me, at his surprise.

Being faster than the bandit, I was ready to give him a kick in the stomach, when I saw above me a feet aiming at his face.

What the...

KICK !

"ARGH !"

The bandit was kicked by a feet which has been even much faster than mine. But where did it come from ?!

Someone then stood up a front of me, where I saw two feminine great legs.

"Wanna dance, gentlemen ?"

"Primrose ?!"

She was just there in the building, but I didn't see her coming !

Every bandits were surprised by her apparition.

"W-where does that chick come from ?!"

"Isn't she one of the dancing girl at the tavern ?!"

Primrose stayed focused on the men, and turned at me.

"Are you okay, little guy ?"

"W-what are you doing here ?!"

"I'm wondering why.", she answered me calmly, as she also looked pretty furious towards the gang. "Don't you prefer dancing with me instead of that kid ?"

The boss smirked, as he looked interested by her..

"How could I refuse ? After all, a magnificent babe like ye is exactly what I wanted in my company: we've been expelled for life from the tavern, so there's no way to miss such a golden occasion ! DON'T YE AGREE, FOLKS ?!", he raised his voice at his men.

"YEAAAAAAHHHHH !"

"SO, CATCH HER INSTEAD OF THE BOY !"

"HAAAAAA !"

During their  battle cry, the thieves dashed towards Primrose, who didn't seem to be worried of the number of men.

"Tss... Look like it's time to do a private show again...", she muttered coldly.

At my surprise, Primrose started to dance gracefully, with such an impressing style that every bandits blushed and stayed in place.

"Ohh..."

"W-what... a beauty !"

"Er... Finally... I-I don't know if I'm gonna hit her... That would be rude...", hesitated a closest bandit, embarrassed.

KICK !

"Aargh !"

She kicked him right in the face.

SBAM !

"Ngh !"

And two others with her other leg.

Incredible ! She just beat those guys with only her legs but her reflexes were amazing ! How can she do this ?!

Every bandits were now surprised by her strength, when their boss got mad.

"Rah ! Don't let you getting charmed and get her !"

"HAAAAAAA !!!!"

Every bandits charged towards Primrose, who waited the first comer to hit him.

SBAM !

"Argh !"

"Ouch !"

She repelled him as he landed on another one, and continued to ripost against her enemies who wasn't afraid to hit a girl anymore, even if they missed their blows.

She was kicking them, blind them with sand, breaking their arms and avoiding all of their blows without difficulty, despite the number of enemies who surrounded her.

She's so strong !

I couldn't still believe she knew how to fight in addition to dance. Indeed, she was dodging with style, like she was dancing, and fighting back with an unique style. She was also very fast like Therion and it looked like her ponytail was "flying" at each move she made in the melee. What I was witnessing was totally artistic... just like a dance.

I was so impressed by her skills that I stayed in place, watching her fighting.

"Don't stay here, Travis !", she warned me, as at least 10 bandits started to surround her.

SBAM !

"OUHHH !!"

She made a powerful circular kick around her, and repealed the 10 foes while the rest of the groups stayed back, including the boss who stayed focused.

I tried to listen to her advice and to step back from the fight, but the skinny man suddenly ran toward me and was about to punch me when

SLASH !

"Argh !"

Primrose just took a weapon and sliced his torso, making him knocking down, as she stayed besides me.

That's astonishing ! She just used a knife so quick to beat the man who took my compass ! Just like how Therion would do ! I never expected that a simple dancing girl like her would be such an incredible warrior !

She was now holding it tight while facing menacingly the bandits, who were frightened.

"Watch out ! She's got a knife !", yelled one of them.

"You idiots ! We've all got knives !", said another while taking his knife alongside with the rest of the bandits.

Oh oh !... I think that's gonna get hot !

The thieves were now charging again at her with their sharp weapon, but Primrose stayed confident.

In the middle of the battle, she performed a dance, when the ground became a dark purple, and a big nasty aura surrounded Primrose.

WHIIIIFFFFF...

All the bandits who were caught inside the dark area lost their forces and became weak.

"Aaaahh... What is that thing ?!"

"She clearly brought the darkness !"

"This gal is really demonic !"

You say so ! What was that thing which looked like Ophilia's light spell, but it was purple and dark ?! What was that kind of magic ?!

Primrose continued to knock down the bandits who has been weakened by her power, while some others charged at her, and the rest stayed back in fear, including the boss. She managed to attack them again, with her knife, slicing their torso without killing them, even if I found her pretty violent by beating them like that !

She was really strong, but I don't know how and why... This girl was clearly different from the others: it's like she was fighting like her life depended on it, like she was prepared to fight during her whole life, and all of that while dancing. The more I watched her fighting these bandits, the more I found her ferocious.

Who was really this girl ? Why does she knew how to fight as good as she knew how to dance ?

While she was busy with the group surrounding her several times before being repelled, I heard two other bandits running to me.

"Hey, little guy ! Don't you think we haven't forgotten you ?!"

"If we take you hostage, that chick will definitely surrender ! Ah ah ah ah !"

I couldn't stay there by doing nothing while she was helping me.

Why is there always someone who has to come at my rescue ?...

Even if they were so many, there was no way I would flee while she was occupying them. I knew she was doing this to protect me, but there's no way I would let her fighting them alone !

SCRAAATCH !

Electricity surrounded me as soon as I crossed my fingers, the blast of my power unleashing repealed my two pursuers.

"What was that ?! A thunder ?!"

Every bandits were really surprised of the lightning surrounding me.

"Oh no ! The boy too is completely a devil !", said a thief, before being kicked by Primrose.

Even Primrose was concerned, as she looked curious.

I finally decided to move.

Gztt ! Gztt !

I dashed to one of the men who tried to catch me, and just touched him with my palm to electrocute him.

GZT !! SCRAAAATCH !!!

"AAAAAAAHHH !"

I then dashed to the other, catching him off guard, as I kicked him in the stomach.

SBAM !

SCRAAAATCH !!

"AAAAARGH !!!"

I beat the other, and there was no way I would let someone taking me as an hostage like at the Brigands's den when Sir Olberic couldn't do anything.

Now, I ain't gonna need to be rescued !

I was truly ready to fight all of them and to help Primrose.

She danced in place with her night and sliced her foes surrounding her, while now almost every bandits were unable to fight.

"What is that power ?!", she said, while observing me with concern.

My eyes widened when she didn't noticed a bandit was about to stab her.

"Watch out !"

He managed to grab her arm and make her releasing her knife, but she was just able to grab his other arm and break it.

CRACK !

"AARGH !"

She pushed the man towards me, permitting me to attack him with a kick covered of electricity.

SCRAAAAAATCH !!

"AAAAARGH !!! Ngh !"

After he fell, electricity continued to surround my hand, when an object flying towards me came in my direction.

With an quick reflexe, I grabbed it when it looked to be the knife Primrose has just dropped.

Surprised, I noticed something was written on the blade, and read it.

Even when the blade is held at your heart... faith shall be your shield... House Azelhart ?

What does that sentence meant ? Wait...

The boss finally charged with a big cudgel, when Primrose called me.

"MY DAGGER !"

"FETCH !"

I threw her back her knife, that she caught back her with ease, and before she was about to be hit by the boss's weapon, she dodged it and riposted.

SLASH !

"AARGH !"

She aimed his arm, making him dropping the weapon after the side of his arm has been sliced, as he fell on his knees.

"Ngh !"

He breathed with exhaustion, while all of his men were down, hurt and too terrorized by both of use.

One of them finally decided to run... at the closest exit.

"They... they are not humans !"

"NO WAY WE COULD FIGHT THESE DEVILS !", yelled another one.

Every bandits, even the one who were hurt, now escaped the place like they went all rabbit.

"Stay... stay here you cowards !...", called their boss, who was scared as well.

"No thanks !... We prefer to stay alive !"

After all of his men fled, he watched at us a last time, and finally moved.

"W-wait ! Wait for me !"

All of them were gone, and without they had the time to take their stolen goods with them.

Primrose, who was a little exhausted, suddenly bent down.

"Ngh !!!..."

"!!!... Prim, are you alright ?!"

I ran towards her, and noticed with shock that her foot was bleeding, although I didn't remember to see a bandit harming her foot.

Though, I've still to provide her help. So, I took her hand, and helped her to walk on nearby steps.

"Stay here !..."

I checked outside and tried to spot for any bandit, to make sure there were no more of them attacking us.

"It's ok... They're gone."

I went back towards Primrose, as she was enduring the pain of her foot.

"Is you foot ok ? Do you need any help ?"

"No. Thank you. I've something to stop the bleeding.", she said, while wrapping a tissue around her wound.

"Good... Ngh !"

I felt quite tired too after fighting them. So, after taking back my compass, I sat next to Primrose, wanting to keep her company.

I never expected I would have teamed up with her to fight the bandits, and I ain't never thought she would go to my rescue because of her work.

"Who were those guys, by the way ?"

"The Wild Snakes. I've already dealt with them a few times before, including one last night... That group of bandit is well know for sending a single man to pickpocket a victim, and making sure to lure him in an ambush, so the rest of the team could rob him everything the person has."

I watched back at my compass.

If Primrose wasn't there to help me, I would have said goodbye to captain's Leon gift. I cared a lot for that compass, not only because it permitted me to find treasures, but mainly because I'm used to remind me of Tressa every time I see that tool, and her love for treasures as well. It would be a real shame for me to loose it.

"Thank you, by the way. I really needed that thing.", I told her gratefully.

"You're welcome, but there was no need to help me, you know... I wouldn't have to hold back, so I could have managed to defeat them all... Even if I have to believe you too know how to fight with those little lightings.", she moved her fingers for mimicking sparks.

!!!... I've forgotten to use them discreetly !

"Err !... Please, don't tell anyone !", I said nervously.

"Do I said that I will tell anyone ? There's no need to stress."

I sighed.

Honestly, during the fight, I didn't want to use my superpowers for beating those guys, because I've promised to myself to make sure no one witness them and raise suspicion. That would be an advantage for the yellow helmet to find me.

However, there were too many foes and I had no choice but to help that girl, even if I must admit she was doing well. She too has witnessed my superpowers, and even if she looked nice, I barely knew her....

Do I have to trust her ? Or not ?...

I don't want to make her an enemy, but I neither want her to have problems. So...

"If you really have no trust in me, keep in mind that you too you know my secret.", told me Primrose, while showing me her eye.

" !!!... But !... I would never snitch on you !", I shouted with worry.

"You see. We have both our little secret to keep."

She... she's right !

I know that she has caught Aisenma, and she knows that I got superpowers, so we could have both problems if people managed to learn it.

Besides, she has no reason to snitch on me as well, else why she would tell anyone about my secret ?

Though, there was still another problem.

"But the bandits... they can still..."

"Those bandits may very well being ignored by the inhabitants of Sunshade. You know they are afraid of criminals wandering in the streets, nowadays.", she interrupted me, while tying her ponytail. "However, that doesn't mean they can't spread a rumor about you."

That's quite my fault: I should have been more careful while spying on that man. It's not easy to stay discreet like when I've done a burglary with Therion.

Anyway, I wonder why Primrose came to my rescue, and I was pretty curious about her.

"You too, Prim, you know how to use magic... But I never heard of that one. What is that spell ?"

"Well, this is what we call the darkness."

"Darkness ?"

"Yes. Some people also call it "shadow". Look."

Whif !...

She created a sort of flame, of a dark purplish color, but the form looked more close to Ophilia's light.

I watched her hand moving the spell like it was a smoke, while she explained me.

"An ancient element mostly used by powerful dark sorcerers during an old times. That magic is difficult to master, because unlike the light element which appease the spirits, the dark element can corrupt them. Some people who weren't very cautious with that spell perished after being consumed by the darkness."

That's scary...

I was dazzled by the purple mist, which slowly passed a front of us.

"It was supposed to have disappeared, but only a very small number of people on Orsterra are able to practice it, including me."

A lost... magic ?

The mist of darkness slowly came a front of me, when I reached my hand, but Primrose calmly grabbed it.

"You should only touch with your eyes.", she advised me, before stopping the spell.

That spell was totally different from every others spells I've seen: that kind of mist Primrose showed me, and also when she made an area of darkness which made the bandits weaker... it looked unstable.

"It's my master who partially taught me how to use it.", she added.

Does she meant the man who was abusing her ?

"Oh... And what about that knife ? You seems to use it pretty well."

"You mean my dagger ?... !!!"

She suddenly stood up.

~Primrose's POV~

He... noticed it !...

I should have been careful while fighting back those men, but now, he know about the sentence. He must has seen it when he caught back my dagger.

Since I've landed to that place, I've always managed to hide it from Helgenish or the other dancers... until it has been discovered by a little boy. How could have I made such a stupid mistake after so many years ?!

I stayed calm, watching at Travis who looked innocently at me.

"What is the faith ?"

Hmm ? He doesn't know what is the faith ?

I sighed.

"The faith ? It's an oath we give at ourselves for being faithful to his word, to accomplish exactly what we have promised."

"Ah ok.", he told me, as he looked quite upset. "I've heard about the Azelhart story... It's very sad what happened to them... But I never knew they also made weapons."

"They shouldn't have made weapons by themselves, you know. It's pretty frequent that a family of nobles would ask a blacksmith to build a weapon as beautiful and symbolic as their family were."

"Oh, ok..."

No. In reality, the exception to this was my own House. My father has told me it was an Azelhart himself, first of the name, who has forged that dagger.

Travis then stared curiously at my dagger.

"Does this weapon is yours, Primrose ? Are you... an Azelhart ?"

He looked suspicious, but I denied.

"I... I just stole it. From a man who tried to murder me.", I lied to him.

No one must know my true identity. No one.

Else, the more people know who am I really, the more the rumor will spread, and the crows will know I'm still alive.

"If you say so... Why should it be in his possession ?", he asked me curiously.

"Maybe he has stolen it from someone else too... And please, do not speak about that anymore, ok ?", I adviced him calmly.

I was about to leave to go back at the tavern, without wanting to speak about that subject anymore. I didn't appreciate that we refer to the fall of my own house.

But before I could reach the exit, I stopped in place, and looked back at Travis.

Although my warning, he continued to stare at me with concern, worrying for my own person. This child was very special: it's like he has a personality very different from others, like has a great sorrow for those who have problems.

I could read in his blue eyes he wanted to know more about me, everything which was wrong with me and why do I have that dagger which carried the name Azelhart. However, he didn't look like a scholar who was inquiring information... it seems like he cared for me, and didn't want to bother me even if he was curious.

Honestly, I think that no matter how many times I lie and deny the truth, he would believe more and more at the contrary and discover the truth.

I don't want him to get in trouble if he knew my true identity, but I must admit my behavior has betrayed me several times, especially because this boy might have the faculty to feel what others would feel.

Will he be really safer if he didn't learn the truth that I was trying to hide ?

Indeed, this boy looked trustful, and if he wanted to denounce me about my disease, he would have done it before. And also... I cared for him in a certain sense...

I know that's pretty risky, but for now, he seems to know a lot about me... So there's no way I could keep denying...

I finally took my decision.

I walked back to him, and told him seriously.

"I think it's better that I tell you the truth, but for your own good, you will have to tell..."

"No one.", he interrupted me calmly.

He has quickly understood, I guess...

After checking if no one else was observing us, I sat on a rock a front of him and spoke.

"Alright... In reality, my real name is... Primrose Azelhart."

His eyes widened at the shocking revelation, and remaining silent was such a trial for him.

"You're really someone from the House Azelhart ?...", he asked calmly, concerned, as I nodded. "I... I thought they were all killed by a group of criminals !"

"Yes... This story is what all people tell, nowadays... But no one really know about what really happened... that I was the only survivor..."

"...!!!", he looked surprised.

I've explained him everything which has happened that famous night, everything about the tragedy that befell the prestigious House of my family. I told him the scene where my father was murdered by these men wearing the mark of the crows, although it was never easy for me to tell that to someone.

Of course, Travis was very shocked to hear that morbid story which has ended terribly wrong, especially because it wasn't a story to tell at kids. However, while he was listening, he wasn't very frightened... instead, he had a lot of pity.

"And... it's been how long since you left home ?", he asked in a low voice.

"Around 10 years, and it's been now 8 years I'm here.", I answered, while watching at my feet.

He muttered.

"...it's so hard."

"What ?"

"It's so hard to not imagine what happened to you... I'm sorry for your father, he didn't deserve that we took his life like this for no reasons. However... I never expected... from the girl who is the only survivor of that horrifying slaughter... would have suffered so much...", he confessed, very upset, as he continued."All these years where you have to escape, to run away and hide from these men, with no one to help you, it's really morbid..."

His eyes were full of mercy and sadness, like he was about to cry. The story of my past has definitely gave him a deep pain in his heart...

I feel bad to see him like that, so without thinking, I danced in place.

He watched at me, when he slowly calmed himself and he looked slightly amazed by my soft performance.

"You're so nice... You would do such a great star !...", he smiled slightly at me.

I smiled him back a little, when I sat down next to him.

"You're right... There's no way to hide you that it was the worst period of my life. Unlike people who want to let the past die, I could never manage to forget the story of my house..."

"Me neither.", he said annoyingly, when I curiously listened to him."I'm trying so much to forget everything bad which I've endured before... But each time, I can't forget what happened to me before, even if I can't even remember everything."

"Looks like me and you are the same. We're both people who want to move forward, with the will to change the future. But no matter how much we are motivated, there's still a part of us stuck in the past. This is what which makes us humans."

I didn't know everything he has ever experienced before, but I was sure the misfortune hasn't spared his past.

We briefly stayed silent, when his voice asked me.

"Primrose. Do you really want to kill these men ?... The ones who killed your father ?..."

"I haven't changed my mind. These crow men took my father away from me and destroyed everything he built. Each day, I dream to find them one by one, and with this dagger, I will cut their throat like how they cut my father's. If there is a chance for me to find one of them in this town, I'll do anything to have it. I will never forgive what they did that night, and I'm gonna be sure to redeem my family's reputation."

The more I speak about these crows, the more I could feel anger and hate. I slightly became more impatient to get my revenge over my father's murderers.

"That's why I'm worried for you..."

His voice calmed down my mind, as I looked at him when he said.

"If you say you'll do anything, does this include working with that bad big man ?"

"You mean Helgenish ? If I have to, I will."

He looked contraried.

"It's... disgusting what he's doing to you and the other girls..."

He must have witnessed my talk with Helgenish this morning...

I refused to deny.

"You say so. Helgenish is truly the kind of abusive man who keep   growing their influence in the world through all the evil in him. However, he is   also my master, and I have to respect him..."

"For how long do you still plan working for him ?"

"Unfortunately, I have no idea. This depends when the man I'm looking for come in that city."

"But you don't need this guy to live your life ! He's just the kind of guy who thinks for himself and abuse people just because he wants   money ! I can't stand that you have such an horrible boss !", he warned me with worry.

Exactly the kind of selfless person...

I slowly patted his cheek, staring at him right into his eyes.

"Travis: I'm aware it's hurting you to see me being treated like a black cat... But please, little one, trust me: I know what kind of man Helgenish is and how he's treating me and the other dancing girls, but I just want you to not be implicated in this. Do you understand ?"

"Yes...", he answered with regret, when he asked curiously. "And about these visions, you have..."

"I don't know really how it works, but it would always send me back to the past, always at the same fateful day 10 years ago... and witnessing my father's death again and again, without I could do anything to help him. It's like my mind was tortured..."

"You looks different from the other man with Aisemna I've seen. Maybe it's because you only have one eye which turns blue."

"Mmhh... It's possible. Beside me, I never head of case of sapphire eyed people with one eye."

"Perhaps we should call them "half sapphire eyed" instead..."

I chuckled quietly to his answer, as he did the same.

"And no one has noticed your blue eye again ?", he asked again.

"Thankfully, no. I always manage to hide it and simulating an headache each time my eye turn blue. If ever it's occurring when I dance, I managed to train myself for improvising my dance to make sure no one notices it. And today, I had a seizure while dancing at the tavern right before."

"Really ?!"

I nodded to him, while remembering what I've seen.

"I've still seen myself, as a child, witnessing my father's death... But this time, I've seen something else."

"What have you seen ?"

"I-I don't know really what it was, but I saw my father, asking someone else to hide something which looked like... a red crystal."

"A red crystal ?! But I've just seen something like that a few minutes ago !", he shouted while suddenly standing up .

"What ? Where did you saw it ?!"

I stood up as well.

But how did this boy know about that thing ?!

He showed me his tool.

"This is what I was looking for with my compass. There was a red dot which lighted, and it led me to a man all weird who had like a an orange-red gem in his pocket !"

Just like in my vision ! If ever he has seen this man right before, he shouldn't be far !

I rushed to the exit.

"Hey, wait !", shouted Travis.

I was now running outside the streets, looking for that man this boy have seen.

Why was there a man possessing this artefact I've seen in my visions ?! In that city ?!

I finally stopped in an alley full of people, but I didn't spot anyone suspicious. I was too late, he must be far from now...

Travis managed to join me, when I asked.

"Do you know how he looked like ?"

"Not really. He had a large black coat and I couldn't see his face, but I remember he was muscular. The problem, is that thanks to that thief from before, I lost sight of him. I'm sorry.", he apologized.

"It's alright. I'm grateful that you have discovered that by yourself.", I ruffled his hair, when I looked around. "I'm just wondering how did he put the hand of that crystal... It looked like it was... containing such power... really unstable power."

I described him while we were walking, when he suddenly has something in mind.

"Tell me, Prim. Have you heard about the pillars of light ?!"

"Of course. I heard the new at the tavern...", I confirmed.

!!!... Could it be ?...

"Do you believe the phenomenon and that crystal are linked ?"

"I-I don't know. Maybe your father wanted to hide it because it was dangerous, but I'm not even sure if it could also create a big light in the sky, and it's not even the same color ! However, we have to verify if it's true ! We don't know if this guy really want to summon that light !"

Too much information today... This boy really knew too much than I expected... What was the point between my father's work and those phenomenons ?

Maybe... And Travis was right: if we find that man he has seen, we might figure out the truth about that crystal. Indeed, maybe this person can lead me to the crow man whom I was looking for and killing him.

However, I have a bad feeling about this, and I don't want to force this kid in that dangerous mission.

So, I asked him.

"Are you sure you want to get into this mess ?"

"It's fine, Prim. That's also why I wanted to go at Atlasdam, you know !", he answered seriously.

What a spirit... I like him already !

I smiled.

"Never thought you were the kind of boy ready to put himself in danger... But I can't let you do this alone ever again. It's decided: I'm gonna help you to find that man and get that crystal from him."

"Oh, really ?"

"Yeah. But the town is quite dangerous, so if ever you know where this man is with your kind of weird tool, don't act alone and tell me first. I'll help you with that. Okay ?", I warned him.

"Okay !"

"Good. But for now, I've left my work for too long. I have to go back at the tavern."

I spotted my workplace at the right, when Travis called him.

"Wait, Primrose ! For thanking you to let me sleep at your home, I wanted to give this to you !"

He bought a gift ?... For me ?

He gave me proudly something.

"Oh ! A bracelet..."

It was a small wooden bracelet adorned with rose motifs, which was exactly around the size around my wrist.

It was pretty beautiful... especially the motifs, and the wood was soft at the touch. It must has been made in by the woodlands hunters.

"With the few money I have, I was able to but one which wasn't too expensive. I'm sorry if it's not as beautiful as all your jewels....", told me Travis.

I put the bracelet around my right wrist alongside with a few other bracelets, when I told him.

"... I like it. It really changes from all the precious jewels I have in surplus.", I smiled, and bent down at the boy. "Thank you, sweetie."

Smooch !

I kissed him on the forehead, letting him a little lipstick mark, when he blushed in return and his eyes widened.

Travis was too surprised to say anything, when I waved at him.

"Once again, be careful alone. I promise I'll be back to help you soon."

That's boy was pretty nice. Honestly, I've never befriended with anyone else than Yusufa in that morbid city, and finally, it was slightly easy to befriend with a child. It's a bit like we're befriending with a man, with many differences...

But for now, I must protect him from a possible danger. I never expected to team up with a 6 years old boy and doing a treasure hunt with him, if we could call that a treasure hunt.

Anyway, I have to go back to work.

"PRIMROSE !! COME BACK HERE !!", Helgenish's voice yelled from the entrance.

As some men attracted by my beauty were following me, I apologized to my boss who was slightly upset.

"Sorry, master... I was trying to... look for customers away from the tavern to seduce."

"Good. What were you doing to that brat, anyway ?", he asked me while drinking his wine.

"Oh. He was just a fan, so I gave him an autograph."

A/N: What do you want me to say ?! Everyone has the right to love melons !

It's been almost a month I haven't uploaded my book, as it's not easy to find a writing rhythm with my studies and it can happens that a day I'm too tired to write (I got tired faster than most of people by the way). I'm still gonna try to upload at a rhythm of one chapter every 10 days, but if possible, I'm gonna try to upload at a faster rhythm if I can.

By the way, I'm now actually learning japanese cause I love the language so much, and I have learnt how to write some syllabus in hiragana (japanese syllabus) and katagana (syllabus from foreign countries), like Travis which is pronounced: トラビース

It isn't amazing. I know it look pretty hard to speak japanese, but I can't tell you I'm starting to doing well ! All I have to do is to know how to translate and to write and understand kanji, I still need a lot of practice to do !

Anyway, I hope you enjoyed that chapter and see you next time !