Time to find a Job.

Ruvel nodded to Johann as he repeated his words "I am going to force you to face your darkest memories and fears." he said standing, it was something he himself had to do before he got his own mark. He still hated them all for taking back to that forsaken place though he knew it needed to be done for his well being; even on a day to day basis his resolve was tested due to having such hurdles, memories and fears but he had proven that if pushed he could overcome it all even if it was only while dealing with a threat or task that challenged his guild and family. He knew it it wasn't for them then he would be in that terrible place a broken doll to their whims like he had been so close to becoming twice before. "I understand that it will not be something that you will want to do, but I see it as important..." he said holding the back of his chair "Courage isn't the absence of fear, it's being able to overcome it when needed so they say." he smiled faintly "I fear so much and every day I have to face the fact my fears may become a reality, so forgive me for making you face yours but as I said it is an important thing to me."

Trust wasn't the easiest thing for the youth, he still had trouble trusting Cirven and his summons fully and they were the closest to him; but he knew they would protect him no matter what. He needed to be able to believe that if he was found by his past that those who where with him would try and help him even if faced with their own fear as he would try to do the same in their shoes. "I'm glad" he said simply heading down to the beach standing in the sand listening to the gentle crashing of the waves on the shore. Once the other joined him "If you wish to stop, please clearly say yield" as he asked about starting he nodded. 'Shindara' He summoned the void dweller to his shadow as was the way of things 'Make him face his darkest fear, do not hold back' he sent to his summon through their own link 'As you wish our summoner.' and with that he would force the elder male to face his darkest fears, what the other didn't know was this was only the first step of this test.

Word Count: 423
Total Word count: 7,922

Everything around Johann went black for a second, but then he opened his eyes to see his father standing before him, rapier in hand. "Now Johann, come at me with everything you have, and try to learn something for once !" he shouted, pointing the tip of the blade in Johanns direction. Johann blinked for a second, and he figured he must have drifted off in some daydream again. He just had other things in mind than learning how to use a sword or how to hold cutlery or what to say to who. He was endlessly bored with the life he had been given, but his father always went on and on and on about how lucky he was and it annoyed him to no end. He drew his own rapier, rolling his eyes and responding with a simple "Yes, father" before making his boredom know with an annoyed sigh.

He took a couple steps forward and swung the rapier, but his father easily blocked the advance, almost knocking the delicate weapon out of Johann's hand. He took a step back only to dash forward once more, swinging his rapier from bottom to top, a tactic that wasn't allowed in a duel. For a split second his father looked surprised, but the surprise was quickly replaced by anger as he jumped back, swinging his sword at Johann so hard he almost cut his own hand, sending the boys rapier flying. He sheathed his own rapier and quickly made his way over to Johann "What was that just now, boy ? Have you no shame ?" He said with an angry voice. He kneeled down, his tone changing from angry to disappointed. "Look Johann, I know you have no interest in these kind of things, but one day they might come in handy. I'm just trying to help you in case you need to defend yourself". "Defend from what ? Nothings ever gonna happen around here, it's always quiet and boring day-in day-out, this meaningless and stupid and I don't wanna do it" Johann screamed at his father before storming off.

He leaned against the old hollow birch tree where he usually went when he didn't want to be disturbed. It was the perfect hiding spot for when people came to look for him as none of them had any idea about the tree being hollow and Johann made an effort to keep it that way. He was angry at his father. Johann had tried to explain that he didn't want any of this, he didn't want to be the only heir to a noble family and rule over this irrelevant island in the middle of nowhere until his death, just be the count blabla of blabla. Just thinking that made him sigh in frustration. All he wanted was to be an adventurer, an explorer, a mage. His dream was to join a guild, but his father was furious when he had heard that his only son didn't want to continue his line, but run off to some some random guild to dig through dirt and do others chores for a living. He had forbidden him to talk about it and it made Johann even more angry just thinking about it again.

His thoughts were interrupted by screams, and in his head he went "Here we go again. Well, if they're looking for me guess it's time to go back". He made his way out of the hollow tree and walked a few meters when he heard more screams in the distance. It was odd since normally his father would just send one or two servants to look for him, and that was when he noticed the smoke and the bright red glare on the horizon. "Oh no no no no" he shouted while picking up pace, now running back to the village that was his home. He had barely made his way over the hills when he saw the inferno that used to be houses, gardens and farms. He broke down and fell to his knees. As he watched for a few seconds in shock and disbelief he heard a rough and deep voice that he had never heard before behind him exclaiming "Oho, looks like I found another one he he he".

He turned around to see a tall, muscular man with a broadsword in one and a dagger in the other hand, a scar running from one brow to the other. "Now, if you don't want to die, kid, get your hands up where I can see them and start walking" the other shouted, pointing his sword at Johann. He didn't even think about it, drawing his own sword and storming forward to attack the man. He swung his rapier, but compared to the bandit, his moves were slow and clumsy, and the bandit just knocked the sword out ot Johanns hand before striking him over the back of his head with the pommel. The bandit cackled "Not fast enough" and gripped Johann, who could barely hold himself on his own two feet, at his collar, dragging him to the edge of the firestorm that he used to call his home. When Johann started to regain his vision he looked around and his face went pale. He saw that the horde had rounded up everyone he knew, the villagers, he sailors ... his eyes wandered around, looking for his family, only to discover the face of his father seconds later. He was bleeding from a wound on his head and from his mouth, unable to move, laying in his mother's arms.

His father turned to face him, his eyes opened and he saw Johann just a moment later. His face went pale and was in utter shock. It didn't seem like he could muster his voice, but Johann understood that his mouth spelled one word again and again and again ... "RUN". He struggled and tried to free himself from the grip of the bandit, but it didn't help. The man only offered Johann taunt as he commented with "You're a wild one, aren't you , he he he ? I'm gonna save you for myself."

"Now boss, what are we gonna do with these people" another voice asked the tall man. "Huh, isn't that obvious man ? he he. We've already taken everything worth a penny or two. Shoot them". Johann stopped his struggle and he almost collapsed at these last two words. The gang surrounded his friends, his family, everyone he knew. "Ready" the scarred man cackled with an amused voice. "stop". Johanns voice was but a whisper between the crying and screaming of everyone else. This was hell. It was a nightmare. He was sure he had died and gone to hell for acting like a spoiled brat towards his father. "Aim". The words broke Johanns heart. A stream of tears ran from his eyes and over his cheeks. He raised his voice once more "STOP". He had seen all of this before, he had felt all of this before. This couldn't be. He regained his spirit. He lifted his head only to stare into the eyes of his terrified father and his crying mother. His soul shattered and his face filled with pure rage and hatred. "he he he, this is my favourite part". "I. SAID. STOP". In a calm and serious voice the bandit leader spoke the word that Johann had never forgotten and would never in his life forget. "Fire"

A cracking explosion echoed through the hills, and then, silence. It was not gunfire however. Johann had seen enough. He knew he had seen this before, nothing in the world could make him forget what happened after the bandit spoke those words. He raised his hand, his voice almost cracking from pure hatred as he said "PRESSURE CRUSH". Within a fraction of a second, the man who stood so tall in Johanns memory had been reduced to a pulp from the pressure of the air that descended onto him, eradicating him entirely as his blood splattered all over the ground. "Not fast enough, huh ?" He turned around, exploding into a stream of air and dirt as he slashed through every single one of the bandits with a speed that made him invisible to the naked eye, hthe man and his blade showing no mercy on those that would, no, those that had murdered everyone he had ever held close. He had seen it happen before, but he would NEVER. EVER. in his life let it happen again. He cut through the darkness only to open his eyes once more, finding that he was standing on the beach still. He hadn't moved an inch, but he clenched his rapier in his right fist so hard that blood was dripping from his hand. He lowered his head, tears rolling from his eyes. He sheathed his sword, but had trouble even keeping himself on his feet. "That wasn't fair" he uttered before falling on his knees.

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Post Word Count: 1.504
Word Count Total: 5.799 / 12.500

Ruvel moved to sit on the sand slowly as the first part of the trial began, a sorrow filled look crossed his eyes though the rest of his face remained unchanging. He hated himself for what he was about to do to the elder male, but he needed to know would they fight against their fears to protect what would become their home and family. 'Shindara, I need not see what he is facing but I need to know if he fought.' he sent to the summon 'Don't hold back.' he finished his left hand going to right arm gripping it almost like he was trying to reassure himself that this was the best course of action. He couldn't assess physical strength, nor could he note worth while skills as he wasn't a fighter and was still learning the ropes on how things worked and what was needed for what. What he could assess properly was a person personality, will and determination.

'Yes, our summoner' Shindara sent back doing what was requested, the summon watched everything that was happening in complete silence, but took note on Ruvel's feelings also knowing such things made the youth uncomfortable as it was a mode of torture used on him quite often. As the elder male fought back he ended the fear memory 'He passed our summoner, he fought against it.' his tone to the other calm to Ruvel 'Thank you Shindara.' he sent back as he looked to the elder male watching the tears roll down his cheek as he fell to his knees, his eyes went to the blood as he moved into his pocket as he shuffled over wrapping a piece of cloth around the wound "I'm sorry for what I made you face Mr. Weiss but in honesty this part of your trial isn't done." his voice showing just how much he hated himself right now "Would you like to stop?" he asked in a small tone he knew Shindara's ability was bad but Amuul's was worse because he could twist memories and that was the second part of this trial, the other assessment he would deal with later if the older male didn't break and wanted to continue.

Word Count: 369
Total Word Count: 8,291

Johann needed a moment to regain his composure. He wiped away the tears while Ruvel bandaged his hand and got on one knee, still shaking, but giving Ruvel a friendly smile again. "I guess you caught me off guard, dear Ruvel ...". Johann was a good liar, but the things he had just experienced had taken their toll on him, and the smile couldn't hide that Johann still felt like crying. He had just relived his worst fear, the fear of losing everyone he considered family and the reason why he had never considered someone else than them family before. In the end, however, he noticed he had learned something from it. He felt at ease knowing he had stood up to this nightmare and thus, he got back on his legs.

Johann was still breathing heavily, looking at Ruvel with bloodshot eyes. "I suppose ... that was the mental part ... of the exam then ... you mentioned a physical part before ?" Johann wondered just how terrible it would be to have Ruvel as an opponent. He himself said that he possessed no physical strength, but failed to realize that physical strength was just another means to an end. Ruvel was strong, stronger than anyone he had encountered before. It was this day that Johann had forever accepted Ruvel as a capable fighter.

Where there was confidence before there was now cautious respect. Johann took a few deep breaths and just stood there in silence for a minute as he relived once more what just happened when he finally regained some of his calm. "Very well, good sir" his face now displaying a grin, his chest rising with each heavy breath "I do not yield yet. Let us continue".

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Post Word Count: 291
Word Count Total: 6.090 / 12.500

Ruvel tilted his head looking to him as he said the youth had caught him off guard and moved back looking to him shaking his head a little "I didn't catch you off guard, I told you you'd face a fear even I don't know what you faced. I requested not to see, your mind is yours." he said calmly, he didn't see the fear it wasn't his place to the man's mind was his sanctuary and not one he ever wanted to step into if he had a choice. He took note at the others eyes and it made him feel that much worse for what he had done and would continue to do to the elder males psyche "You still want to cry." he said to the other voicing his observation, his puffed up and blood shot eyes proof of just how much damage he could have just done to the man that only wished to join his family. He wanted to make sure that his family would be safe and strong. That was his duty as part of the family... right?

Ruvel listened to the statement that the other said and shook his head "That was only one part of that test." he said watching how the man was breathing heavily, he was doing well trying to keep everything together but living with the constant fear of being returned to his old home he could see just how badly that fear had effected Johann. "As you wish to continue, we shall. As before if you want to stop just say yield." he said sadly his eyes moving to the left, how he feared what he was doing 'This is the correct path right?' he thought to himself before standing once more 'Amuul' he thought calling the younger void twin to his shadow 'You requested me our summoner' he sent to Ruvel who nodded his head 'Choose a memory of Johann's and give it physical life, everything is to be how it was in the memory until I request the change' he said calmly to his summon 'As you request, I shall give you the form of someone he knows also.' he sent doing as was requested

Word Count: 369
Total Word Count: 8,660

Johann was a bit embarrassed that the other had noticed him falter like that, but he guessed it couldn't be helped now. He sighed as the other explained to him that the mental part of the exam wasn't over and, for a brief moment, thought about just quitting this, but he had come this far. Quitting wasn't an option for him anymore ever. For a few seconds he just stood there, his eyes still fixed on Ruvel, when he was once more engulfed by darkness.

He opened his eyes. He found himself once again facing his father in duel, but it was not the same day as before. It was another training session. The sky above them was clear and a fresh spring breeze was shaking the wet grass. His father looked at him for a few seconds and drew his rapier. "Now, Johann, this time, please actually attack me. You can't just stand there and block all the time". The feeling of annoyance returned and he reluctantly drew his own sword. "I'll try, father".

Johann had always thought of himself as weak. He wasn't particularly tall, his strength was below average and he hesitated when swinging his sword, something one should never do when they want to use a weapon effectively. On top of that, he had next to no magic. He remembered when he was around 5 years old they had tested him, but all he managed to do was knock over a paper cup with a tiny stream of wind. He had tried again and again, but without results. However, that fact only made him want to join a guild more. He was certain they would help him advance his magic abilities, but he hadn't told his father yet. The boy was afraid of how he would react, and he knew his father well enough to say that it wouldn't be a particularly good reaction.

He sighed and drew his own weapon. His father wanted to educate him in the use of a rapier, a traditional weapon where Johann came from, but all of Johann's thoughts revolved around magic and adventure, not swords. Still, his father took him to the field behind their chalet everyday to train.

He advanced step by step, waiting for any advance of the other or a window to attack. His father took a step to the side and he figured that this was his chance, but just as he had already taken a step forward he realized this was a feint. The other, with superior agility, maneuvered around him and slashed the rapier out of Johann's hand, who lost his balance and fell over his own feet, landing in the dirt. "That was way too harsh" he mumbled and got back on his feet, the rapier now sticking in the ground beside him vertically. "I don't want to do this father" he complained to the elder. He mustered all the courage he had build up over the last couple of days and figured this was the moment he would finally tell his father how he felt. "Father" he began to speak "I want to join a mages guild". He closed his eyes, expecting what came after. His father screamed at him with an anger that he had never seen on him before. "Are you insane, kid ? What are you even thinking !?" Instinctively, he turned around and ran away to his usual hiding spot.

He was staying in the hollow birch tree for hours possibly, he had no way of telling the time, as he was crying in pain, letting out his anger. He got out after a while, noticing that the sun was already about to go down. He couldn't help but curse. He had forgotten that his father had organized a ball for this evening, and he couldn't miss that. His father was representing their house before the other nobles, and he had no intention of making him look bad, so he hastily made his way back home. The second he got back his mother and father both started to scold him, but there was no use having a discussion with them about it at this time. Maybe later when they had calmed down. "I won't let you abandon our family's legacy, Johann. I worked hard to maintain it, and I forbid you to ever talk about this guild-nonsense again!" was what his father said, and he was frustrated like never before, but he quietly accepted and stormed off to his room to change clothes for the ball, but not without making his frustration known by crying tears of pain.

The evening had come and he had calmed down a little. The other noble families had started to arrive one after the other, and so he reluctantly made his way to the festivities. For the first half of the event he was expected to introduce himself to everyone and play nice, a thing that Johann had hated with passion, and for the second half he could do whatever he wanted, so he decided to sit down on a chair on the side of the hall. He was bored and still rather angry with his family when someone sat down beside him. He had no intention to socialize more and wanted to leave when he looked over and saw that a beautiful young lady was smiling at him.
"Hello, young sir, my name is Rose. pleased to make your acquaintance". His face turned red. "J-Johann" he stuttered. "N-Nice to meet you".

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Post Word Count: 921
Word Count Total: 7.011 / 12.500

Ruvel looked to himself to see whom he had become and blinked seeing a dress groaning a little 'Amuul, are you kidding me?' he sent to his summon whom chuckled a little seeing his summoner wearing an elegant blush pink and white Victorian styled dress his hands gloved 'You should be use to wearing dresses our summoner.' he sent back to Ruvel who glared at his shadow 'I swear Amuul' he sent back, if Johann actually knew what was going on he would realise Ruvel wasn't best pleased with what his summon had done to him 'Brother, this isn't funny.' Shidara scolded his younger twin, they both knew just how much their young summoner went through and this was nothing more than a degrading torment that he was being forced to relive. Closing his eyes he sighed, given what he was putting the older man through he could deal with this so put on a smile.

Taking hold of the skirt of the dress he gave a courtesy to the sitting Johann "Such a unique name, the pleasure is all mine." he said blushing a little as would be customary, he may not have been able to like but he could fake emotions with ease. "Are you the son of Lord Weiss?" he enquired trying to gauge him "Like I said my name is Rose, my family name is De la Roche" he said getting the information he needed from Amuul, the smile faded as he tilted his head to the side "Johann, can I ask what you're doing all the way over here? I mean there's a marvellous ball going on to honour your birthday." he giggled now noticing the blush he realised this must have been Johann's first love and knowing that no matter how he twisted it, it would hurt the man. Sighing he shook his head 'Amuul end it, I don't want him to be hurt..' he sent to his summon who instantly broke the illusion

"Some things I will not damage, the heart is something more fragile than the mind and I won't do it." he said sitting on the sand looking out to the beach, he brought his knees to the chest. His pairing with Demi was forced on him and where theirs wasn't a relationship as they had hoped the two did love each other in their own way and even now she felt her loss. "Forgive me Mr Weiss..." he whispered crystal tears falling down his own cheeks "I didn't want to cause harm either time, I just..." he went silent as he cried "I know a little about you.." he whispered his dual coloured eyes going to the elder male as he brought up his sleeves with a shaking hand the skin would seem unnaturally perfect and pale but then he done something he had only doe once before and dropped the glamour around his arm revealing it for how it truly was. The arm was covered with scars, welts, burns, carvings, needle marks, bore marks, brandings, it was even covered in bruises in different stages of healing and golden runes, not to mention other things.

"This is why I needed to be sure..." he said shaking even revealing that small portion of his body made him feel open for attack, the glamour covering the wounds "A lot of my body looks the same way..." he whispered shaking his voice braking each word he spoke "I need to know I am safe from them, I need to know my family and guild are safe from them too..." he was trying so hard to remain strong but he was failing "that they can protect me and each other." his eyes continued looking at the water. He had hurt the other, now the other knew the reason behind such horrible tests, he was frightened and wanted to protect his family through that fear.

Word Count: 650
Total Word Count: 9,310

"Thank you" Johann responded to the blond haired girl in the pink dress. "I have the feeling I've heard that name before ... yes, Friedrich von Weiss is my father". he sighed at the girls next question. "It's nothing, really" He turned to face her and faked a smile "It's just that sometimes family is a really complicated thing, still, you find that you just can't be mad at them for too long because you love them nonetheless". He had barely ended the sentence, when the image of the fancy hall around them faded away and was quickly replaced with the sight of the beach they had been on before.

He found himself sitting next to Ruvel, who explained to him that he wouldn't go any further with this memory since he didn't allow himself to damage a person's heart with tears in his eyes. Johann let out a sigh and said "So that's how it was, hm ?". "You know" he continued with a sad smile on his face "This day we spent the night together, and the next day she departed again with her parents. I've never seen her again. And just a few weeks later ..." he stopped mid sentence. He lowered his head. Ruvel pulled up one of his sleeves and explained to Johann.

"You shouldn't ask for my forgiveness, dear Ruvel. I am the one who should beg forgiveness from you, for I didn't know." He got up, now standing besides Ruvel and, without a warning or other indication, hugged him. "I'm sorry" he mumbled while tears were rolling down his cheeks again. The tests Ruvel had provided really had taken their toll on Johanns psyche.

Johann let go of the young man, who seemed visibly uncomfortable, and drew his rapier, pointing the tip towards him before slamming the blade into the ground. He got down on one knee, as if he was a knight speaking to his sovereign. "If you and your family will allow me" he spoke with a steadfast and unfaltering voice "then I will solemnly swear to protect both you and them with all he might I have from anything that dares to threaten them" before taking back his sword and standing up again. Ruvel had impressed Johann and earned his respect, and thus, his loyalty, not a thing that many people could say about themselves. He absolutely meant what he said.

Johann couldn't even imagine what the youth had been through, and compared to him his own pain seemed almost laughable. He would make sure that no one would ever hurt him again the way it had been done. He gave Ruvel a smile. "Is that all, good sir ?"

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Post Word Count: 450
Word Count Total: 7.461 / 12.500

Ruvel listened to the elder male, he had met his first love and lost her all in the same evening. He didn't understand the emotion really, he understood the heart was the strongest muscle but the easiest to break but the emotion itself was a mystery to the youth. How could he understand it his emotional map was impaired and broken due to his old home, the closest person to him was a person they forced him to pair him with and though Demi and himself cared for each other deeply it he knew it wasn't the same kind of feelings that Johann had for Rose. "I'm sorry for your loss Mr. Weiss" he said quietly watching the waves as they hit against the shore softly. He was caught off guard when the older male said he had no need to apologise that he should be the one apologising to the youth for not knowing.

"How could you know?" he asked but again he didn't understand why the other felt the need to apologise for something he had no part in. "Why are you apologising to me? You done me no harm but the same can't be said about me in regards to you." he said in honesty to the other, suddenly he felt himself being hugged his body started naturally shaking violently as he tensed. He was frightened every time he was touched by anyone but Demi it usually ended in pain. "I didn't mean to cause you mental anguish, but now you have faced those fears you can move forward stronger than before." he hadn't seen the memory but Cirven and Barthenz said that facing things that where painful made a person stronger. He didn't see it working in his case. He then watched what happened next baffled wiping away the tears in his eyes.

"P-please don't bow like that, I'm not a noble..." he said in a quiet tone crawling over to the other pushing him back "I'm a nobody... don't bow to me" his voice was shaking but his eyes showed he meant his words, that he believed in everything he had said "You've passed my tests and when we get to Tolgalen I will put in my request for you to get your marking." his voice was honest as he spoke "I don't know if they will want to test you further but as far as I'm concerned you're more than able to be with us."

Word Count: 411
Total Word Count: 9'721

Johann felt the need to tell Ruvel that everything is going to be okay and talk to him about what Ruvel had showed him, but he didn't want to dig deeper after seeing the scars. He didn't pity Ruvel, but rather he admired the young man for what he was doing. He had seen the worst parts of life despite his age already, and still, he was standing there, continuing with all the strength he had, thrown into a world that punished him simply for existing. Johann saw in Ruvel a reflection of his former self, although it seemed that Ruvel had had it far worse in the past.

"You're right, I couldn't have known, but still" he didn't really understand why he said it himself, there was no way of knowing about the others past, but that didn't change Johanns feeling on this matter. He knew he had done the boy no harm, but he had felt some of his pain as if it was his own in the past, and it only made him more determined to give more than 100% for Ruvel and his friends.

"You are right, my friend. I thought about this part of my past a lot recently, and I've found that I can finally come to terms with the things that happened. Although somewhat traumatising", Johann was staring at the bloody bandages on his right hand, "I think that an important lesson has been learned. If we scold ourselves for the mistakes others made in the past we can't progress" he concluded, turning his head to face the ocean.

After he had offered Ruvel his service in the only manner he knew he responded to the others remarks "I have left nobility and title behind, dear Ruvel. Noble or common, it matters not. You are far stronger than you think, and I offer you my sincerest respect for that". He left it at that.

"I thank you, good sir. I'm looking forward to meeting the ones you call friends" he gave Ruvel a warm smile again. "If you think we have nothing more to discuss for now" he continued "I would like to retreat to the suite for a bit to gather some thoughts. If you want we could meet again for Dinner ?" he said while a single tear made his way down his cheek that was still smiling at the youth, hitting the sand below him.

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Post Word Count: 405
Word Count Total: 7.866 / 12.500

Ruvel looked at the still coming waves the water now reaching his shoe, he didn't move from the spot he found himself sat. His past was just that and no matter how many wanted to change the facts he knew it would never change, he was scared by it inside and out and would be for the rest of hi life. What he did have power over however was to rise above it, to use it to become stronger. Still he knew that his old home and new home where close to each other, so the chances of having runs in with his past would eventually come around one day and hoped he would be ready for it because there was no way  he wanted to return back to that life. "I dislike being touched." he finally spoke about how the other had suddenly hugged him, he knew the elder male would understand after seeing the damage on his arm alone. He moved his knees to his chest hugging them close as he placed his head on them "Please tell no one what you seen, the only people to know are my summons and my teacher." he muttered in a voice that almost seemed numb to any emotions.

"Earlier I told you I was an orphan..." he whispered his dual coloured eyes looking the other directly in the eyes as he spoke 'Amuul, shidara please' he sent to the twins, who where surprised given they knew what the other was wanting, they didn't want to do this they knew it was painful for their summoner. This was something that he hadn't even shown to the man that was closest to him but they believed it was something to do with the trauma that he had inflicted on the older man. Soon the scenery would change unlike earlier however Ruvel would still be sat where he was and Johann would look like himself as the scene unfolded. The scenery became a room filled with elegantly decorated with lavish furnishings that would make the suite seem second rate in comparison. On the floor there would be a young boy, it was easy to see that the boy was perhaps four or five years old and dressed in the finest silks of whites and reds, the embroidery on the clothing would be unchallenged. The boy had neat raven black hair with golden and silver streaks, dull golden amber eyes, around his neck there would be the pendant Ruvel had revealed to him earlier, a happy smile on his face as he giggle playing with blocks on the floor.

This changed however as a loud bang would be heard making the youth jump looking like a deer that was about to be run over. Next he seen his mother and father running into the room, his mother scooping him up and heading to the farthest point from the door while his father drew a sword from his side taking a defence position ready to protect his family from whatever awaited on the other side of the door. The young Ruvel looked between his mother and father in confusion he had truly no idea what was going on, this was the first time he had seen his parents act in such a manner. "Jikapr, opsola?" he said with the wonder only a child could have "Tir ti vorq, tir ti nymuer, trelk dout saurivic vur wexeag." the woman said with a trembling tone helping her son to cover his ears holding him close to her chest as the door burst open at the exact time and the bodies of sixteen people dropped to the floor after had just being executed. The youth struggled from what the woman was doing to protect him seeing but it was to late he had witnessed the vile act. The only other people he knew in his life laying still and silent, blood pooling around them eyes wide open and filled with the knowing their fates where at an end. The youth couldn't help but start crying his mother holding him close doing what she could to calm her scared child.

A man clad from head to toe in armour dashed forward towards his father, who deflected the initial blow like a seasoned warrior, a battle ensued between the two men and it was easy to see with speed and skill the defender had the higher ground but in overall power it was the attacker who had the advantage. As the father was about to claim the winning blow after an intense battle the armoured man had used an underhanded tactic and blinded the other, stumbling back a few steps the mother moved to try get her husband but retreated this was however enough time for Ruvel to see his fathers demise through the slits in his mothers fingers. "Come here woman and we'll spare you the indignity that others won't be so lucky of." the man chucked his mother looked down repeating her words but added more "Tir ti vorq, tir ti nymuer, trelk dout saurivic vur wexeag.. yth nishka tafiaf tenamalo shio ulnaus vur lotoc. Qe versvesh hesi moxt mitne." she whispered kissing his forehead currently adorned with a small blue gem that seemed to sparkle with starlight before putting him down. The youth placed his hands over his ears clenching his eyes tightly doing what he was told, but curiosity got the better of him as he opened his eyes the man had his mother by her hair and had pushed a sword through her neck snuffing out her life.

The youth was frightened but still crawled over to his parents shaking them as if trying to wake them "Jikapr, opsola... rocen svern, coi ui ti tairais ekess vdri... petranas... petranas rocen svern" he begged them but nothing happened they where as still as the others fear creeping into his eyes as he looked up to the ones who had taken everything he knew from him a sword pointed at the gem his mother had just kissed ready to push through it. "Say goodbye kid." the man said with a smug tone but then sheathed his weapon noticing something he hadn't before that confused the youth that much more as his hand was roughly taken by the cold metal gauntlet covered hand. He tried to stuggle but was back handed and though crying sat still as the man had observed the liquid that seemed to come from an wound that Ruvel had gained on his fathers sword while crawling over to him "We take this one alive, he'll be useful" he said throwing the youth to another male. With that the memory ended and they where back at the beach.

he remained quiet tears falling "I didn't understand what happened back then, I knew I was alone that they wouldn't ever wake but I still cried for them for so long." he spoke in a low voice that was almost crackling with each word he spoke "I don't remember what I thought about being spared... grateful I guess.. but.." his hand went to the arm he had shown the other showing that the emotion vanished when it had begun. "My father was a strong man I think.. I don't remember" he said his throat hurt from the constant crying "I am not like him." he ended not caring that the water was moving around him. He nodded to what the other said about gathering his thoughts he seen no issue in it.

Translations:

Word Count: 1,255
Total Word Count: 10,976

Johann was still standing by Ruvels side, the youth now sitting in the sand as the tide came closer and closer. The encounter with Johanns past seemed to not only have taken an effect on him, but Ruvel seemed to recall his own past as well. The young man continued explaining to him. "I see. I'm sorry, my friend. I was not aware. Of course, I will keep everything to myself" the grey-haired man continued "I swear by my honor". Given that Johanns honor was everything to him, the other could be certain that even under torture, Johann would never give it away. He would rather die.

Johann had finished his sentence and kept his eyes on Ruvel for a few more seconds with a serious expression when their surroundings changed once more. Johann and Ruvel remained where they were, unchanged, but he suddenly found himself in some other room. He assumed it was Ruvel who had manufactured this illusion, but he didn't understand why until he noticed the boy playing on the ground. He was somewhat shocked and surprised by this, and wanted to open his mouth to speak when more people came storming into the room. Johann watched silently and in sorrow the events that followed, and even though he did nor understand, the context made it clear that all of this was Ruvels own past.

The images disappeared again and Johann turned his attention back to Ruvel, who still sat in the same spot as before, silently crying as the soft waves of the ocean now slowly but surely found their way around the young man's body. He sat down beside him, caring not for the cold water or the rising tide. He opened his mouth to speak and, for the first time since he had met Ruvel, he made an effort to drop the manners, a gesture he hoped would signal that he had exposed his true and unchanged personality to Ruvel, that he had dropped his guard entirely ...

"Ruvel ... You're not alone anymore. It's okay to cry and mourn over the past, but" he continued in a soft voice, smiling at the other "what matters now is the present. I can understand why you feel how you feel " Johann said with a slightly cynical tone, and he really did given how Ruvels story had a few similarities with his own, "but you don't have to constantly push yourself to the limit. It's okay to lower your guard every once in a while. I know it might be hard, I know the pain" he remembered how broken he was after he had fled from his own home and survived only by pure luck, lived on the streets and dwelled in mud and garbage for hours just to find something to eat, how he wished he had just died on this godforsaken island, "but sometimes, all it takes is a friend who pulls you out of the dirt and helps you stand straight. Believe me, the fact that you are still walking, breathing and even crying alone after the things that happened makes you strong. Stronger than most".

He wished he would've had people that helped him, believed in him. He remembered how he was launched into a world that wished he wouldn't exist, labeled him an outcast, and still, he had stood up to them and showed them what force of will can do if you just believe in yourself, and all he tried was to tell Ruvel that you need confidence and a push in the right direction by someone who knows to push. He was sure that Ruvels friends would try their best, and he would join them in their efforts. He stretched out his hand towards Ruvel and held it open. "I don't know about you" his face changed back to a friendly grin "but I am pretty damn hungry".

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Post Word Count: 650
Word Count Total: 8.516 / 12.500

Ruvel remained still looking out at the horizon in front of him "My summons say I was only four when the massacre happened, those people where all that I knew before that day." he spoke quietly his voice numb of tone "I don't want to lose another family and I don't want to be hurt like I was after it again." he said his voice didn't change as he spoke "Strength can be beaten out with the right strategy, the right tactics and by numbers... the mind is something that is more vulnerable to attack, break that away and you become like people I once knew." he wasn't about to go into what he meant but it was clear that there was something behind his words as he tried to regain himself, he feared that he would become like those who where known as 'the lost' by those who still functioned somewhat normally, he almost became like them twice barely getting through it either time. He didn't know if he would be so lucky again but guessed that's why Cirven and Barthenz where so rough with him when it came to training.

"I know, I'm not alone anymore." he said his eyes turning to look at Johann bloodshot and puffy due to crying so much, how he wished they would stop stinging but knew eventually it would happen in time. "I have a great big brother, if not a little weird and strict." he wouldn't have Cirven any other way if he had to be honest with anyone, he would take it all if he could remain by the one that showed him that his past had no sway over him especially if he had anything to say about it. "I have my guild who are like family even if I am anti social most of the time." he was still getting use to the being around others thing, the only person who willingly stayed beside him had since passed so he was trying to adjust it was just going slower than most would like.

"I've never been allowed to mourn my family" he said honestly, he was allowed around a week then if he cried he was beaten and told he now had a reason to cry; he stopped within a few days afterwards not wanting to feel the pain. "To do it now it would be senseless, I barely even remember their faces or the sounds of their voices" he said honestly his voice trembling "I can't afford to lower my guard, if I do they'll find me." he hugged himself tightly shaking it would be easy to see that it wasn't the cold water that made him shake but sheer fear his eyes clenching as he spoke but they opened soon afterwards "Cirven has put safety measures in place so that no matter what happens I'll be safe, he seen things that I wish he hadn't but the past can't be changed no matter how much we want it." he hated that he was seen being hurt in such a way, he hated himself for Cirven's darker nature rearing itself because of him.

"I am not strong..." he whispered, it was only because of others he was doing any of those things well at least as a free person but even now he knew it was far from over. He knew what the elder male was trying to say and was appreciative of it but still it didn't change anything for him. He shook his head "I will stay here a while longer, please go and get something to eat" he said not wanting to keep the other.

Word Count: 611
Total Word Count: 11,587

Johann sighed. He didn't know what had scarred Ruvel to become like this, but it was obvious that it had been bad. Really bad. Still, he believed that Ruvel's family would be there for him and help him with whatever he would need, which made Johann smile a little. "Yes, we can't change the past. But we are still here, aren't we ? Might as well make the best out of it." Johann was grinning again "I am sure that even if those people would be coming for you, we all would be there to help you out. It is good that you have found so many friends" Johann took back his hand with a sigh. He figured that the other needed some time to heal their, judging by the what Ruvel had shown him before, relatively fresh wounds. He couldn't even imagine what grevious torture would produce such scars on ones body. Then again ... sometimes there were scars that nobody could see, scars that would never close, scars that would be branded onto ones mind for eternity, a lifetime.

Johann stood up, opening his mouth to speak "Very well, dear Ruvel" he started his manners again "I will head back to the suite for some rest, please notify me if you want to meet or discuss something. I guess tomorrow we will head out for Divide Island ?". With that, Johann raised his hand to his chest and performed a deep and respectful bow. With the words "I hope I will see you later" he made his way off the beach and back to the hotel, Ruvel still sitting in the wet sand and the crashing waves. It had been more than taxing on the old man, his body aching more than he would ever care to admit, and his mind in distress, his thoughts in turmoil.

He opened the door to his suite. While they had started early in the morning, it was now noon and the sun stood in it's zenith. Still, Johann was tired. Where he had thought that the exam would be a duel or fight of sorts, it was more something that tested his mental strength. He had not been prepared for something of this gravity, either, not at all. He wouldn't have thought it would affect him as much as it did, and he had evidently been proven wrong by the childlike other. He removed the improvised bandages from his hand and went to the bathroom. He figured that he had pushed his fingernails into his hand while he was trapped in Ruvel's illusion by looking at the 4 cuts on his palm. He sighed and turned on the hot water for the bathtub, the calmly flowing stream gradually filling up the metal tub.

The hot water, in contrast to the coldness of the ocean, felt as if it would be a miracle to Johanns muscles. He laid back and thought about the events that had taken place today, about Ruvel, about his past, about everything. He let out a sigh. It wouldn't help to endlessly obsess about the things he had seen, so he figured he would concentrate about the now and what was to come, but since Ruvel had shown him what he had pushed away for such a long time, he felt as if he was finally able to completely let it go. He had found it easier and easier to deal with it as he got older, but it would still pain him greatly. Since he had found out about Ruvel and what he apparently had to go through the feeling of sadness and pain was replaced with confidence and conscientiousness.

He got out of the bathtub, put on fresh clothes, the old ones were wet and dirty from the ocean, sand and a bit of blood, and took a fresh bandage from the first-aid-kit that was conveniently present in the suite. After he had taken his bath and freshened up he figured he would head straight for the restaurant. He didn't lie to Ruvel when he said he was pretty damn hungry.

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Post Word Count: 686
Word Count Total: 9.202 / 12.500

Ruvel listened to everything the elder male had said remaining quiet for the longest time, he could understand what the other was trying to do and was saying but words right now where lost on the youth. He knew he had survived the massacre of his family. That however was due to his blood and had soon realised that he wished to be with them over what fate he had then inherited. Was the pain, suffering, anguish and torture worth the breath he now drew, to him it wasn't he was still suffering "What I went through, isn't worth each pain filled breath I still draw" he whispered, it was true he found solace in Cirven but still the wounds were still fresh for the youth, but he tried hard each moment to continue not just for himself but for Demi and those still within the magic cage of the home he once knew.

"Things have been done to ensure my safety and health Mr. Weiss, thank you for your concern however." he felt like a burden to Cirven, his summons and to his guild as a whole; he knew a note had been made in his personnel file that stated that under no circumstance was he to ever to be given a task to go to or near crescent island alone. He had to notify Alisha if he was leaving the grounds and a direct communication link to Cirven when he left the guilds headquarters was created, then there was the fact he was the only one with a room within the headquarters itself all be it, it was a refurbished store room that would allow no light in, nor did it have any windows to speak of but it was what his summons had requested and Cirven had approved. On more than one occasion he swore that Cirven even travelled in his shadow making sure he was alright but that made him feel more paranoid that he really should have been. He nodded to the end question "Yes, we leave at noon tomorrow." he explained leaning back in the sand allowing the water to surround him as his eyes closed listening to the crashing waves almost wishing for them to take him with them.

'Our summoner you'll drown if you remain there much longer.' Shindara warned the youth who didn't move an inch 'Or you may end up sick due to the cold.' Amuul added, Ruvel worried little about the normal sickness others seemed to get it, he rarely got that kind of sick so he didn't see the point in it. 'Dear one, please get out of the water I would not wish to tell him that you drowned yourself due to being lost in thoughts of the past.' he heard from the summon who acted as mother and healer to him "I guess, he'd end up finding a way to revive me just to give me extended training." he said sitting up his clothing sticking to his body, his hair sticking to his face as he stood up walking to where he had rested the night before blinking as his day to day clothing was sat folded neatly "H-how?" he seemed completely confused by it 'We left them our summoner' Shindara's voice came forward 'We didn't think wet clothes would be a suitable look for a guild member' Amuul finished his brother's sentence. Ruvel who quickly changed into the dry clothing folding his wet ones knowing they would be collected by one of his summons 'Go eat kid and something not a salad' Barthenz finally voiced making the youth nod and head towards the bar. When he got there he smiled seeing the bartender "Let me guess water, fruit and regular salad small?" he said making Ruvel shake his head "Glass of water, small bowl of lentil soup and a wholemeal roll please" he said making the bartender look shocked but quickly regained his composure and gave the glass of water. Ruvel went back to his normal table awaiting the food he had ordered

Word Count: 678
Total Word Count: 12,265

There was still a bit of light outside when Johann made his way back onto the main road that would lead to beach with the bar area, but the sun had already started to set and streaks of red and orange could be seen on the horizon. It would be dark soon, and lacrimas everywhere started to turn on one after the other, illuminating the twilight of the street. Johann wondered just how long he had been lost in thoughts while lying in the warm water of the bathtub. Judging by his surroundings he figured it must've been hours. Now that he had calmed down a bit and went through all of the events of this day again he could really start to feel his hunger and thus,he hastily made his way to the restaurant that Ruvel and he had been to before.

He stepped into the bar area and, to his surprise, Ruvel had made his way to the bar before him once again. What was even more surprising however was the fact that Ruvel seemed to actually eat a real meal. Johann was a bit astonished. He didn't let that dissuade him from making his way over to where Ruvel was sitting and greeted him with a friendly "Good evening, dear Ruvel." and a grin on his face. It occurred to him now that the youth could have made his way to the bar area earlier than Johann because he wanted to eat alone, undisturbed by the stress of what had happened today. "Do you want me to leave you alone so you can have your peace and quiet, my friend, or would you prefer if I joined you ? And please" he continued in a more serious tone "answer truthfully". He wouldn't force his company on the young man, and he could more than understand if Ruvel wanted time for himself after this day. He didn't want to leave him alone however, he was concerned for him, and he was longing for a friendly chat with the boy about the nature of his guild and the other members and whatever else might expect him on Divide, but he would certainly respect Ruvels wish.

Perhaps he just wanted to spend time with the youth, with someone who understood the plight, the pain he had been subjected to, long healed wounds once again ripped open through the "test" the other had come up with. It was somewhat gruesome. Who would even test someone like that ? This West Fiore Trading Company really didn't joke around ... which was one more reason why Johann, with great certainty and unwavering determination, was set on becoming a part of the group that harboured people with such strong prowess and abilities.

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Post Word Count: 460
Word Count Total: 9.662 / 12.500

Ruvel's order had just arrived as the other turned up, as he looked to the portion for a moment he didn't notice the elder male at first. "Thank you Daisy." he said to the waitress, he had no idea how he was going to eat much of what had been placed in front of him as for a small portion it may as well been the entire pot to the youth. 'Eat what you can kid.' Barthenz said to him making a small sigh cross his lips as he now checked his surroundings one more. Seeing Johann once more he lowered his hood and smiled a bit "Good evening, you look refreshed." he returned the others greeting as it was polite regardless of how he ever felt he was always polite and spoke when spoken to. Hearing the older males question surprised him, he had never had someone ask him if they wanted to be left alone so it was a new experience for him.

As he was about to answer he was interrupted making him blink once more. "Is everyone liars?" was the first thing that the youth had to say, it wasn't the first time that someone had asked them for or about something adding for him to be honest about it. "Mr. Weiss, I can't lie." he said looking at the other directly in the eye to show he was speaking the truth on the matter, it wasn't a conscious decision through what he was and his upbringing it was just plain impossible for him to do such things. "Please feel free to join me, you technically a guild member now." he said with a small smile, with him it was that simple. "And please use my name, the way you speak to me makes me uncomfortable." he said his eyes going to his glass of water.

Word Count: 310
Total Word Count: 12,575

Johann now took one of the menu cards that were placed on the tables. It was strange, it was the first time he would take a look at their menu despite already ordering food there twice before. He had just made assumptions before but strangely, they were correct. "Most people are" he answered the one who was sitting beside him "be it to hurt other people or to help them." Johann wanted to continue and say that lying was a deeply human thing but given that Ruvel had told him he can't lie he probably would've taken that as an insult, so he just kept his mouth shut. He thought about what the other had said for a few seconds and recalled the events of earlier. "Is that so, Rose ?" he thought to himself. He didn't know how the other would react to that, so he kept it at a thought and an amused giggle. Still, he opened his mouth to answer "Sorry, Ruvel. I guess I've been speaking with manners for so long that it's just become normal. It's just the way I talk." He grinned, but it required some effort on his part to drop the manners and speak colloquially.

Daisy came back to take his order now. "I'd like the beef steak with a large portion of fries, the salad with chicken breast and boiled egg, and a glass of red wine." He turned his attention back to Ruvel, who had, probably due to the ocean's slightly cold embrace, changed clothes. "You look refreshed as well" he gave back to the youth. "How do you feel ?" he awaited the others answer and continued. "So, now that I'm officially a member: What can you tell me about the other members of the West Fiore Trading Company. From what you've been saying they sound like great people and, I admit, I'm rather intrigued. Also, how do we continue from this ? We're gonna head out for Divide Island tomorrow, but what is gonna happen then ?" Johann continued to look at Ruvel with inquisitive eyes.

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Post Word Count: 348
Word Count Total: 10.010 / 12.500

Ruvel looked to the other as he spoke to him about how people lied, sometimes it was to help them but other times it was to hurt them. This confused the young summoner to no end as to him a lie was a lie there was no difference. "What is the difference between the lies? For me they are one in the same as this is how I was... um.. taught." he was a little hesitant to say to much more on the matter, where he had never been able to lie he had seen others within the facility that had been and caught doing so, he remembered the harsh punishments given as messages to others who may decide to do the same. As much as he felt for those people he was glad that was at least one punishment he knew he would always able to avoid, well at least if the girl he was paired with didn't lie. Then again she wasn't one for talking all that much even when asked a question she would keep it short and sweet. He began to look out the window over the ocean wondering if those he knew were safe for the evening but constantly knowing that wasn't true.

Soon however he was snapped back to the current moment as the elder male's thought was conveyed to him by Amuul this caused a deep blush coming to his cheeks instantly "D.. don't call me that..." he stuttered in embarrassment, if it wasn't bad enough he normally looked like a girl even in what he was wearing the fact his summons had decided to make him play a female role in the second memory. He had this funny feeling that he was never going to be allowed to live this down from his summons whom already made his life difficult and the new member to the company, he did however bring this down on himself so he had no one else to blame for it. He nodded understanding however when the other moved from his thoughts to speak once more "I understand that myself, this has been the way I've spoken since I can remember.. Cirven has been trying to break me of the pattern but it doesn't seem to be breaking so I might be stuck like this." he was almost ashamed to admit such a thing but he had been conditioned to speak in such a way so it was unlikely ever to change anytime soon.

The youth smiled a little as the other spoke of how he was refreshed and where it was not completely true he had felt worse so couldn't complain on it "I am well, thank you for asking." he said finally after a long pause to decide how to answer such a question. Hearing the others question he had truly no idea how to answer it, he hadn't met everyone in the company yet but most of those he had seemed like good people but there were a few he tried to avoid because something about them was just off putting to him. "I have yet to meet everyone within the company Mr. Weiss, most of those whom I have seem rather nice but there are a few even without speaking to them make me feel at ill ease." he confessed "I don't know if it's just me being paranoid as I myself am quite new or if there is something there but I've been avoiding the interaction just in case it is the latter, though I have to admit I am not one who interacts easily." he said calmly his eyes keeping contact with the other as he spoke so the other could tell he wasn't lying on the matter.

Hearing the next question he nodded "Yes, tomorrow we head back to the island but it seems like that won't be our home much longer, I don't know the details though. Just that our new home is going to be ours and that it will be better for everyone even if it means more work too." he said scratching his head still wondering what his elder brother had up his sleeve, he guessed like everyone else he would just have to wait and see. "I will then introduce you to the owner of the company, let him know I've tested you and that you are more than capable to take any position he offers you..." he paused and smiled "Except chef because the food would never leave the kitchen, but it is nice to see people with healthy appetites; if I had to guess I would say you have a lot of speed within your magic and it makes you go through your energy quicker." he had no idea if this was indeed the case or not it was merely an observation on how the other seemed to always be hungry and never put on weight regardless of how much he ate.

Word Count: 828
Total Word Count: 13,403

Johann held his breath for a second. How was he supposed to explain that subject matter in greater detail ? The older male obviously had more experience regarding the nature of man, having seen the odd thing in his years and years of travel between towns, cities and even countries, sometimes jumping from one battlefield onto the next one. "Well, you see ..." the silver haired male started to speak with thoughtful tone, raising his hand to his chin "... sometimes people can lie to protect other people. It is still a lie, that much is sure, but ... is it not a justified lie if you save a friend ? Is it not a noble goal to help others ? Sorry, young friend, I'm just speculating. Though, with certainty, I can say that there are differences between lies, are there not ?". Of course, he figured that Ruvel had a reason for the way he presented his outlook, and he couldn't exactly condemn it. How would you go about explaining this to someone who hadn't really learned this from a very young age on ? Well, it was of no particular importance anyway, at least for the time being. If pressed, of course, he would respond, but he would not pursue the topic   by himself.

Johann looked up, the waitress approaching with 2 plates and a glass which was filled with a deeply crimson liquid, placing the food before the elder male, his eyes widening. Finally he would be able to fill up, already craving the meal that he had just received. "Don't call you ... oh, right", Johann giving the other a weak smile, remembering the fact that the boy could use the other beings that accompanied him to see into his minds and thoughts. "I'm sorry, just a passing thought, a joke, really", a slight smile, a smirk, lifting up the corner of his mouth. "No need to explain yourself, either" he continued, taking a bite from the steak before him after taking a sip of the fruity red wine that had been delivered to the table "I understand how it is to have ones manners be dictated by ones ... education". Of course, judging from what the older mage had seen, that education was would prove to be more than questionable for the youth. "I understand" Johann quickly gave back when the youth had spoken, looking down at his plate in thought and contemplation when the boy had explained "Well, there are a few rotten applies in every bunch. You can only try and avoid them", he spoke from experience, after all. "You're fine, young friend. You have capable friends that will guide you along the way until you become what you can comfortably be, yourself", of course referencing the young mage's summons.

Johann, quite happy with the rest of his meal, finished the steak and the side, moving on to the salad all the while taking the occasional sip from the glass of wine. After days on sea the freshness of the vegetables, the sauce and the combination of flavours was a more than welcome change. "Oh ? Is that so ? I understand. Thank you for letting me know. I am, though, undeterred in my resolve to join the West Fiore Trading Company", after everything he had just been through that wouldn't be surprising at all, of course. "I am more than prepared to work any position your leader will bestow on me, should he bestow such onto me". He couldn't help but chuckle at the youth's next comment, the awkwardness from the beginning of their meeting seemingly overshadowed as the two had started to get deeper into their conversation "You have to appreciate what you get. I don't quite know if it is ingrained in my past or connected to my magic, but it has never hindered me anyway". In truth, he couldn't quite pinpoint where his love for a hearty meal came from, but he reckoned that it was probably connected to his years on the streets of Minstrel where food was sparce and you took absolutely anything you could get your hands on. With that, the silver haired, older male finsihed his salad, placing aside the cutlery before finishing the single glass of wine, sighing a breath of satisfaction. Already, he felt more energetic, ready to take on what would come. "Your Company, though, young friend, I must admit, sounds like ... a unique place indeed. I must admit ..." a smirk spread across the man's face "... I do quite look forward to what awaits me"

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Post Word Count: 766
Word Count Total: Thread Word Count reached

The younger of the two sat at the table watching the other, it was clear to him that the elder male was contemplating the question and how to explain it in such a way that he would understand. Just by the way he spoke it was clear he had no idea the difference between lies, this would be strange because most people by his age would know the difference but here he was innocent on the matter. Hearing the elder silver haired male speak he leaned in as if getting to know some sort of ancient secret that wasn't known about by people at large. On listening to the others explanation then the question that followed he shook his head "No, it doesn't." he said bluntly, to him a lie was a lie regardless of the reason behind it, he could understand where the other came from but given what he had been through and seen what others had gone through for lying he was dead set against the practice regardless of reason. "Where I was raised, a lie was a lie and was punished regardless of reason. I am lucky, I can not lie but I got the opposite to the others. They tried to make me lie and when I didn't I was punished..." he whispered holding his sleeves "I tried to fulfil their wishes but I never could not matter how hard I tried." he said his eyes looking to the bowl of soup in front of him, he remembered the punishments and shuddered slightly.

He looked up though kept his head lowered "I do want to help others, but lying is beyond me I'm afraid... if that makes me a bad person then..." he whispered, he really couldn't help how he was and the thought of being a horrible person because he couldn't lie to protect people was terrifying to him but he tried to not worry about this, he could find other ways right? "Then do I deserve my brother's kindness?" he asked now questioning if he would become a hindrance to the guild and family that taken him in, he thought that he should just up and leave because it would better but he was stuck by a contract his summons had made with Cirven. He would have to talk to them soon and see if they would release him from the contract, he doubted it but again it wouldn't hurt to try given what he now knew. He shook his head to the final question "With how I was raised, a lie was a lie regardless of why it was done, it was punished and most severely. To myself and those like me there is no difference in them, does this make me a failure as a good person?" he asked honestly a twinge of fear heard in his voice half expecting the other to say yes as it had happened many times when he failed what apparently was such a simple task for others.

He watched as the waitress came back to the table unable to fathom how one person could eat so much when he struggled merely to eat the things he did, he was starting to understand however how he was treated growing up was cruel and shouldn't ever happen to anyone; especially children but for him the damage had been done and there was no way to go back from it. At least not at the moment but he was trying, still some mannerisms would stick with him for the rest of his life and though he was ashamed of this thanks to his new knowledge he was also content knowing that it wasn't a common occurrence that one day he would be able to go back 'home' when he was stronger, when he was not so afraid and help end it all as they all prayed for. He knew even then he would need the support of others or he would fall back into his old ways no matter how far he had risen from the hell that he was raised in. "One day... would you... a... accompany me home Mr Weiss?" he asked quietly almost afraid to be heard, this was his problem and he would completely understand if the answer was no but that was the worst thing he would say if he declined right. "I'm not ready to speak on the place I was raised but I promise, I'll tell you some day before we go there..." he said sincerely, it was still to fresh a wound for him to touch on it right now, he tried not to think of the older silver haired man saying no, for once he wanted to think positively on someone and why not the one he had most likely emotionally scarred and shared some of his own past with.

He nodded understanding that it was a passing joke and smiled faintly as his summons told him that this was what friends done with one another outside of the facility. "You're my friend Mr. Weiss?" he asked a childish innocence held in his otherwise calm voice. "You would be my first outside of home, I didn't know friends teased one another until I was just told; i.. if done in private o.. or if dressed in such a.. a manner again. I.. I.. I won't mind the name.." he stuttered, he knew he looked more feminine than masculine and had already been told that such a thing would work to the guilds advantage, he didn't like being treated as a tool by anyone but at least time he was told he could refuse. It blew his mind to find out he actually had a choice in what sort of things he could do, the only rule was he never spoke of the guild and didn't embarrass the company. He had already placed a fail safe in with the twins that if he was ever to be interrogated about the guild that they would hide those memories from him, after all you can't lie about something you have no knowledge of. "You had a strict education too?" he asked, he had no idea if it was as bad as his own and he hoped that it wasn't but it was nice to know someone understood such things.

He continued to listen to the others wise words and smiled as he heard him being called his young friend, that at current was the highlight of his entire life regardless of how long or short it may have been. "I ha..." he stopped shaking his head for a moment before tapping the centre "No, it's wrong to speak ill of other people, they'd know." he scolded himself it was almost like an instant response to what he was about to say, like he had been taught that talking badly of certain people was a heinous crime and so punished himself for it. After a few moments of doing what he was doing he lowered his hand placing them in front of his face and leaning forward. Within the elder males head he would hear Shindara 'Please tell him, his sin is forgiven; this is one of the things we are trying to break from him' the tone that he used was calm but the undertone showed true sadness within it as he shared his thoughts. Once done Ruvel would lower his hands to the table and look to the other "You're most gracious in your kindness Mr. Weiss" he said a faint smile on his face his eyes showing he meant as he said, though there was fear almost as if he believed the other shoe was waiting to drop as it most often was.

He nodded to the others thanks in letting him know what the plan was for the day following as he started eating a little of the soup and roll he had ordered. "That is quite a feat, I am sure it will come in handy." he said warmly, if nothing else he would be the fastest guard around but he could already see there was something about the elder male and would point it out to his older brother the moment they got back to the company. "It's lively alright because let alone what the clients bring or the day to day issues of the company itself... the employees keep you on your toes, that's for sure." he said thinking back to the few that he had met, though he didn't know them to well he knew they weren't exactly what they seemed but then he knew he had no room to complain or judge on that one. Once he finished what he could he smiled to the other as he started standing, "I will take my leave and see you at the docks at dawn, please have a pleasant evening Mr. Weiss it was nice to spend another meal with you again. Perhaps I will make you one some day." he said his hand going to his chest as he slightly leaned forward into a light bow before making his way out of the bar and back to where he rested.

Word Count: 1,535
Total word count: 14,938

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