Book Two – Chapter Ten – Part Three – A Secret Revealed & A Small Trip

After Momo welcomed her back with tearful eyes, she introduced Servi to Dineria, who told Servi that she had rubbed her body down with water infused with Remedium. Momo and Servi ended up thanking her, to which the Elf just giggled.  

“You’re very welcome. Fisher Jin is taking care of the bill, so please, don't worry about it.” 

“He’s out there?” Servi half-expected to fly into a rage after hearing his name, but she didn’t.  

Is it because of Momo and Dineria? Or something else? I was talking to someone when I was out, right? Was it Itarr?

“He said he wanted to speak with you as soon as you woke up. It’s about the little red creature you saw. The one that had the sleepinwillo?” Dineria leaned up against the wall with her see-through briefcase hugged near her chest.  

Servi was in the process of putting on a particular outfit that Momo had picked out for her. At first, she didn’t know how to explain the items appearing from thin air, but then Servi realized she had stored some bags. She descended into the ring, stuffed the clothes in bags while inside, and took them out in a location that was out of Momo and Dineria’s sight.  

They swore there wasn’t a bag there before, but Momo said that she was too stressed out to be sure. Even though Servi had on underwear and they were both girls, Momo tried to not peek. And the Singi swore she did the best she could, but she might have spared a few glances.  

It’s been a long time since I had to do this manually. I almost forgot how to tie my shoes.  

“I don’t exactly remember a red creature,” Servi said, continuing on with the lie, “but it might be good to ask him.” 

“Then I’ll go get him,” Dineria opened the door and went to shout but stopped when she saw the man in black armor sitting on a nearby bench.  

“Oh my, it’s like you knew she’d be awake, even though she took in spores from a sleepinwillo,” Dineria teased the Captain, and he just sighed.  

“Tell me how much it’s going to cost me,” Fisher started chanting his Dimensional Storage skill but was stopped by the Elf who healed Servi.  

“It’s no charge this time. You’re lucky I was Momo’s mentor. And just so you know, I was totally against you bringing them out to fight a juncea. I knew something was going to go bad, and it did. If something would’ve happened to Servi or any of the others, I would never forgive you. Not in a million years,” as if she just didn’t pour her true feelings out to Fisher, Dineria gave a paradoxical smile that didn’t fit the current atmosphere, then walked towards the stairs. Her white coat fluttered behind her as she descended. Before she got too far away, she turned around. “Don’t be too rough with the girl. She just woke up, so I imagine her mind is in a bit of a jumble, so to speak.” 

And with that, Dineria walked down the stairs and made her way to her store.  

Fisher, meanwhile, took those words to heart.  

Everything was going fine until Servi attacked me. We would’ve been home without a single incident, but I can’t blame it on her. She only went after me because of the things I’ve done in the past. Maybe we can talk this out before she decides to kill me. She was weak before, but if she’s in the right mind, I’m going to die the moment I walk in that room. But if Momo is in there, then I should be fine. I didn’t see her walk out.  But, should I have my weapon out? No, that’s the wrong way to do it. I need to go in to prove I want to talk, not fight.  

Taking a deep breath, he knocked on the door. “Servi? Momo? It’s me, Fisher.” 

“Come in!” came a voice that certainly didn’t belong to Momo.  

He opened it and walked in before closing it. He saw two people in his sight. A girl with black hair and red eyes wanted to murder him, and a Singi with pink hair. Both were sitting on the terrible mattress and looked up at him.  

“Dineria said you wanted to talk to me about the red creature?” Servi stared at her armored, helmetless foe.  His brown eyes stared down at her, then they turned to look at the Singi next to her. 

“That’s right. If it’s alright with you, I was wondering if I could speak to you alone.” 

“I’ll go tell Claire that you’re up. She was worried, too,” Momo announced. She got up, thanked Fisher once more for going to get Dineria, and left. It was only the two of them.  

“Do you remember any of what we talked about?” Fisher started a conversation that might’ve been his last.   

Servi stood up, and two brown chairs appeared from thin air. She sat down in one, and she pointed to the other chair.  

“To be honest, I don’t. But someone I trust and love very much told me what you said. If you want an apology, you’re not getting one,” Servi placed a hand to her heart.  The rugged blue overalls she had put on felt comforting, and she smiled.

Fisher reached out to grab the chair and positioned it behind him. Sitting down, he carefully thought about the right words that he needed to say. “Then you know my regret, right?” 

Servi nodded.  

“You know I cried for them, right?” 

Another nod.  

“And you know my past, right?” 

“I know everything you said to me before we started fighting, so what’s your point?” 

Fisher stared deeply into those red eyes. “Then you should know I’m ashamed of how I was in my youth. I killed a lot of innocent Demi-Humans because I forced myself to see them as enemies. That was something I could never take back, and those lives were cut short because of my ignorance. I admit I was weak and frail, and Arnold took advantage of me. But I don’t blame him. I blame myself.” 

“…” 

“I should’ve known that my past will come back to haunt me, but I didn’t expect it to take a form of a Human who doesn’t play by the rules the Gods have set.” 

“What do you mean?” Servi asked a question she already knew the answer to. She needed him to keep talking so she could figure out, in her mind, the questions she wanted to ask him.

“Your ID didn’t have Telekinesis, yet those swords were flying. Your throat ripped open from your screaming and healed instantly. The green mist, from my staff, was created from highly concentrated sleepinwillo spores that could knock out a dragon for two days, yet you woke up in just a couple of hours. You can use skills even though you messed up the chant, not to mention it’s like you can them without speaking. I could go on and on.” 

“And?” 

“You’re something that goes against everything. You have all of this power at your disposal. Even what seems to be the ability to make physical objects from thin air.” 

“Are you saying it’s wrong for me to use this power to get revenge, even after I swore I would use it to get revenge for those who’re unable to protect themselves?” 

Fisher sighed. “I want to say yes, but I know that if I had this power when my village was attacked, I would’ve used it to its full potential. But ultimately, I would’ve lost myself in the death and carnage I would've brought to the Demi-Humans. I wouldn’t be Human anymore, and my anger would’ve consumed me, eventually turning me into nothing more than a monster. I imagine your anger got the best of you, and that’s why you…” he trailed off and stopped speaking.  

Like what happened to me… Servi sighed. Itarr told me that I was nothing more than a beast who growled and screamed. Gods above, Servi, why did you do that? Is that your true self? A mad dog that can only feel alive when you fight and kill?

“…” 

Fisher continued speaking, going in a slightly different direction. “I know what it’s like to dedicate a portion of your life to revenge. I can’t even begin to tell you how many lives I’ve taken. And hell, even if you don’t believe me, I’m going to do all I can to make reparations. I don’t hate Demi-Humans anymore. I don’t hold those who weren’t born at the time or weren't even there to be responsible for my village’s fate. Silverado and the others—” 

“Then do you expect me to forgive you because you turned over a new leaf?” 

“I don’t. Hell, I still hate myself. If killing me is enough for you to forgive me, then do it. But I won’t go down without a fight. I finally have something to direct my life towards, and I refuse to have that taken from me. I refuse to be separated from my wife and daughters. I know they’re too good and pure for a sin-stained man like myself, but—” 

Servi stood up and sighed. “Goddammit, you’re making it hard for me. I hated you, and I fought off the urge to kill you for a month because I thought I’d have the perfect chance. And I did. But now…” Servi sat back down and cradled her head with her hands.  

“If you don’t mind, can I ask you something?” 

Servi shrugged.  

“Does Momo know any of this?” 

“Nope. And I plan to keep it that way.” 

“Then does anyone else know?” 

“Nobody knows the truth about me, but some know what I’m truly capable of. Those that know that aren’t here anymore, and I don’t know where they’ve gone.” 

“I get the feeling you’re behind the attacks from a month ago.” 

“And?” 

“If you are or aren’t, it is of no concern to me. Hundreds of terrible Humans died in the attack, and many Demi-Human slaves were able to escape. I just want you to know that I want to thank the one responsible for freeing them... I used to be all about Humans. The good ones, the bad ones. The evil and despicable ones. That was the only reason I even bothered to train Silverado and the others.  Because I convinced myself they would use the skills they learned to protect the Humans that would probably join their parties.  

“But when I realized that there were some good Demi-Humans out there... I knew the world had to have its fair share of evil Humans. It sounds weird because I just said I used to be all about Humans, good and evil. But now it's like I'm seeing everything from a different angle. Of course, I’m well aware I’m one of the evil ones, and I’m not denying that. Gods above, I sound like such a hypocrite. I don't even know if the words coming out of my mouth are making any sense...” Fisher sighed and exhaustedly rubbed his head. 

I can’t believe I just approved the actions of the girl who was responsible for hundreds of people dying.  I know I should do my best to bring her in, but...

“However, I can’t forgive the person responsible for slaughtering the few good men who had no choice but to work there, but—” 

“Then here,” Servi interrupted Fisher and brought out the rest of her sacks and filled them with dupla. They were overflowing, and the coins spilled out onto the wooden floor.  

“This may or may not be from the culprit and may or may not have 500,000 dupla in it. The culprit would want the children and family of those affected by her actions to be taken care of. They had no say in the matter, and it wouldn’t be right for them to be punished. I’m sure the culprit knows this can’t bring back their fathers or mothers or brothers or sisters, but she doesn’t know what else to do. She wants to make sure that this money is properly distributed.”  

Fisher cracked a smile and opened his Dimensional Storage.  

“You don’t seem to be surprised at half a million dupla appearing from thin air. Why?” 

“There are things in this world that can’t be explained. From my point of view from nothing is another one of your abilities.” 

“You talk as if I’m a Goddess.” 

“Aren’t you? I believe only a God or Goddess could break the rules set by the Gods.” 

“Itarr, should I tell him?” 

It is up to you.  

“Itarr?” Fisher asked. It must be the one she loves and trusts. In that case, she might be possessed by a spirit. Maybe a Goddess? No, I don't think that's it... I've never heard of a God or Goddess taking control of someone, so it has to be a spirit. They can slip inside weapons and imbue them with their powers, so why they can't do the same with a person?

“Sorry, I can’t say much. But I can, however, say this. I am Human.”  

At least I think I’m Human. I hope I’m Human.  

Fisher moved over to the sitting giant sacks of dupla and began to store them inside his Dimensional Storage. Servi spoke to him. “You’re not planning on telling anyone, are you?” 

“Who’s going to believe me? As far as I’m concerned, you encountered a small red creature who tossed a sleepinwillo at you. Then, you fell asleep and woke up hours later after being treated by Dineria. Your secrets are yours to keep and protect. They can only be revealed when you want them to.” 

Once all of the bags were gone, he sat down back on his chair. Oddly enough, he only had to touch the bags for them to disappear.  

The two silently stared at each other, and it was Fisher who spoke first. “Are you competing in the tournament?” 

“Yeah. Though I realize it’s not fair of me. You saw a bad side of me, but I’m pretty damn good with a sword. You want me to forfeit or quit, right?” 

Fisher nodded. “I do, but I realize you can’t. Your first reason for joining this program was Momo, wasn’t it? I remember you talking about two reasons.” 

“Yeah. Momo's my closest friend, and I originally joined because I needed money. Though, I suppose I only have the one reason now.” 

How strange… I’m talking so freely to the man I wanted to kill.  

“I see," Fisher smiled.

“You didn’t tell Feral and the others, did you?” Servi knew she had already asked about him keeping it a secret, but she wanted to be extra sure.  

“I did not. I just spoke of a red creature that had a sleepinwillo. That’s the lie I made up, so roll with it.” 

Servi sighed again. “Look, I’m sorry, alright?  At the time, I was just so upset and angry that you said you cared about your students when I thought you were willingly hurting Seka and Seko. But now I know your side of the story and your circumstances. If I was in your shoes, I probably couldn’t have done anything differently. So, I’m sorry for attacking you, and I thank you for keeping my abilities a secret.” 

“There’s no need to thank me. If I was in your position, I would’ve attacked myself. I’m glad we were able to talk this out.” 

Servi smiled. “Same here. I guess I know now that I shouldn’t always choose violence. Hell, maybe it’s time for me to tell Momo.” 

“Are you afraid?” 

Servi nodded. “She’s my first friend after Itarr, and she believes me to be unblessed, like her. If I told her that I have these powers, I’m afraid she would hate me.” 

“I won’t say our situations are the same, but I will say this. My wife, Gods bless her soul, didn’t know anything about my past until a few days ago. I told her, and I fully expected her to leave with the kids. But, to my surprise, she was there smiling at me when I woke up. She knows my past and says she’ll forgive me if I can’t forgive myself. But, I need to do all I can to make amends for the lives I’ve stolen.” 

“She sounds like a lovely woman.”  

“Oh, she is. She deserves a better man than I, but she sees something in me. All I can do now is make her proud to be my wife.” 

“And your two daughters are adorable.” 

Fisher smiled. “Mari and Meri are certainly something. I’m proud of them, and I only wish I could do them right. I want them to be proud of their father, but I know I have a lot of work to do.” 

“How are you going to distribute the money? I have 29,459,728 dupla left to use. If that’s not enough, I have some nadrium items and gemstones you can sell to get the rest.”  

“I believe that’ll be enough. I’ll make sure it’s distributed equally. But, there is one thing I’m thinking of that you might like?” 

“And what’s that?” 

“Governor Blasé and his secretary Eina won’t be at the tournament. They had an appointment with someone important and won’t be back for a week or two.” 

“Okay, so what does that mean?” 

“Before we left for the juncea, they wanted me to brainstorm and come up with ideas to improve our city. And I think I have one if you’re willing to hear it. It’s something that’s been in the back of my mind for a few weeks now.” 

“Alright. What is it?” Servi crossed her legs.  

“If you’re willing to pay for it, I believe I can convince the Governor to build an orphanage. There’s a lot of children, both Human and Demi-Human, that are homeless. Right now, they have to steal and lie just to survive. I believe it’s something that Canary really needs right now.” 

“I agree. Does Canary have any orphanages?” 

Fisher shook his head and sighed. “ There’s probably some unofficial ones in the slums, and it’s better than nothing, but I feel it’s not enough.” 

“How much is it going to cost?” 

“A couple million, at least. But that also includes everything: beds, Wash Stones, the buildings, the crops and grains, the animals, and more. There’s a nice spot outside of town that’s perfect for farming and tending to animals.  There's a lake nearby.  For just a little bit more money, it's possible to build a little subdivision from it. That way, we wouldn’t need to use the Wash Stone to provide the water for the crops.  If we do that, then the price drops dramatically.  Wash Stones are pretty expensive." 

“Having the kids work a farm is a good idea, provided they aren’t overworked and are allowed to take enough breaks. They’ve lived a hard life, and I refuse to force them to slave day and night for a place that’s supposed to be their refuge.” 

“Definitely. I agree one hundred percent. I’ll personally see to that. If it’s alright with you, I’ll put together a document detailing everything I have planned, as well as an estimated cost. It’ll be expensive, but eventually, the orphanage would be self-sufficient by selling its produce. In addition, the donations they would receive from nobles wishing to flaunt their wealth and generosity should be more than enough to cover any unexpected costs. And yes, I’ll make sure the money that’s earned goes towards improving it. I won’t allow anyone to steal or embezzle anything."

“That sounds pretty good, and I like it, but don’t put my name on it. Momo doesn’t know I have all this cash on me.” 

“I won’t. I’ll leave it blank. If the governor asks, I’ll just say it’s the same anonymous person who donated 500,000 dupla. But don’t take this to mean I’m just going to have it built and leave it alone. I’m not. I’ll make daily visits, and I’ll instruct my men to have a guard or two hanging around. I’m serious, Servi, the treatment of Demi-Human, both citizens and slaves, and the homeless in this city will turn around. I might not have the reach the Governor does, but people know me as the Justice Captain. Even though I’m not worthy of that damn name, I have a certain sway with some of the populace. I’ll do all I can. I promise.” 

“I know you will. I don’t even know how many orphans I created, and this won’t even come close to paying it back, but if the orphanage needs it, I’ll donate everything I have. Right now, this is the only thing I can think of to atone for my sins."

Servi held her hand out, and Fisher smiled.  He stuck out his armored hand, and they shook on it.

I’m happy for you, Servi. I believe Fisher is a man we can trust.  

“I do too, Itarr.” 

“May I ask what she said?” asked the man whose hand she was just shaking.  

Servi smiled. “Itarr said she believes you’re a man we can trust. And I believe that as well. You’re one of the only people who know my secret.” 

“Your trust in me is something I won’t betray. It goes without saying, but I trust you too.  But.... I need to ask one last thing.  Arnold was the one in silver armor who was with me at that time... Did you kill him?"

Servi sighed heavily.  As she opened her mouth to speak, Fisher stopped her. "Even if you did, I know deep down he deserved it.  And the ones who went with him deserved to die too.  They were just like Arnold in the same way that they hated Demis, and it wasn't strange for me to find them with a dagger deep in a Demi-Human slave that either had no master or had run away.   I had all the chances in the world to put a stop to it, but I was afraid and weak.  But you already know that.  At least they can't hurt them anymore.  Just know that I don't hate you for what you did. I can only hope they died peacefully, without regret filling their heart.  If there is a world after death, then I hope they'll do all they can to atone for their sins."