Custody Battles

[Vinny]

Vinny knocked twice on the doors of the Palazzo. He was about to knock again when he heard Anne's voice. "Kat! Go answer the door please, I'm helping your brother get dressed." He heard the pitterpatter of little footsteps approach the door and a little smile appeared as it cracked open.

"Hiya!"

He smiled back at her. "Hey there kiddo. Remember me?"

Katherine nodded and gave him a big hug just as Anne was walking over. "That you Vincent?"

He let Katherine down and stood back up, gathering his words for what would undoubtedly be a tough announcement that was sure to break down into something ugly. "Yes Anne. It's me."

Anne's face brightened. "It's nice to hear from you. Kat, why don't you go help your brother color.

Vincent's face turned a bit grim once Kat had left the room. "Good. I was hoping for a little privacy. We've got some things to talk about."

Anne shifted a bit, but the smile still held. "Sounds serious. Does this have anything to do with the temple?

Vinny took a deep breath. "I'm not sure there's a nice way to say this, so I'm going to just come out with it. I'm filing for custody of the kids. Given recent activities and people you've been associating with, I'm not sure I want my kids growing up in this environment."

Anne's smile quickly faded and was replaced by shock. "WHAT?! YOUR KIDS?! Since when were the YOUR kids. Those are MY children. Filing for custody? How could you do this to me!"

"Since I've spent more time rasing them than you have. You haven't exactly been a model parent. Should I rattle off a couple of reasons?" He crossed his arms, looking irritated at the fact that she had the gall to even question this decision.

Her anger kept on rising as she shouted at him. "First of all, I've been raising them more then you have. You had them for what? A couple of weeks? And a model parent...I'm trying my very best. I'm teaching them good morals, I'm teaching them right from wrong."

"But how much time have you actually spent with them? You left them with Shandren while you and your new beau were off in Rigel. And you've been in and out of court for a while now. And from what I hear, you stand a good chance of being convicted, and I'll be damned if they get left with an assassin as a stepfather.

She stopped for a second. "Let's go outside. I don't want them hearing this."

He held the door open for her as they stepped out. "Fine. I don't like to argue in front of kids anyways."

Once outside, she began to calm down a little. "You know what, I probably will be convicted. For what? Being raised as a pirate? And when it comes to killing Black I didn't have much of a choice. You think Caleb might be a bad father, how about their actual one. And he cares for those two children unbelievably. He knows that his job stays outside of the home."

An evil smirk crossed his lips. "For all they know, I am their father. I can prove it too."

She stared at him, not quite sure of what he was implying. "They call Caleb dad."

"DNA evidence is rather easy to manipulate, given my talents. You know what I'm capable of."

Her eyes narrowed as she stared at him. "You wouldn't dare."

The smirk left his face and resumed back to it's previous seriousness. "If it will put them in an environment worthy of growing up in, I would."

Anne was near tears at this point, the anger showing once more. "Those are my kids Vincent! I love them and they love me! Why would you rip us apart like this? Why...how can you even think to tear away a mother from her children? What right do you have!?"

"The right as a loving father."

"Caleb. Is a loving father. I am a loving mother."

"Who wants his kids to be brought up by a convict and an assassin?"

Her voice changed to an almost pleading tone. "Vincent you know me better then that. You know I'm trying to change. I'm teaching them the way I should've been taught."

"You can't teach them from behind bars."

"And you can't teach them when you're all over RhyDin for the Temple!These kids need a mom. Unfortunatley, that's not you."

"Unlike you, I can be in more than one place at a time. With me, they'll never want for anything. They'll have a proper upbringing. They'll have a parent that will always be there for them."

"A. Parent. Not two. And I'll not let another woman take my place as their mother. And sometimes, it's good to have want. Spoiled kids end up like brats. Even I know that."

"I'm not that cruel as to totally shut you out of their lives. I'd be willing to extend visitation rights."

"Visitation rights? I'm their MOTHER.I gave birth to them. I'm raising them. I love them."

He snorted in disgust. "You? Raising them? You left them with me almost as soon as they were born. And aslmost as soon as you got them back, you left them again to run off and do god knows what on Rigel. And you're about to leave them again to serve a long stretch in prison. Face it Anne. You've never been there for them, and you never will be."

She choked on her tears. "When they were born I watched them for a couple of weeks. Black was still out there, I wasn't willing to let them be taken by him. So I left them with you because it was safer. It was a sacrifice on my part. You think it was easy?

"It would've been safer if you had just left them with me. Then they wouldn't have to be put through this whole mess.

"What sort of mother would I be if I left them with you? Ignored their existence? I'm gonna fight for them Vincent. Heart, soul...whatever it takes. Those are MY kids."

"One who cared for their safety and put their interests before yours."

"They're safe with me."

"That's not what the courts will say after I present my case. They need stability, not a mother who's in and out like she's caught in a revolving door."

By this point, her anger had melted away into the fear of losing her kids. "Vincent, I'm begging you not to do this. Please. I love them, I want to be a part of their lives. This is a tough trial, I can't help it! Once this is all over I'll be there for them, they will have stability.

He shook his head. "I'm sorry Anne. This is what I need to do for my kids."

"They aren't your kids. You aren't their father. They don't even call you dad.

His face twisted in anger as he pointed inside. "Those are MY kids just as much as they are yours!"

"Really? How so? I don't see you with them everyday. I don't see you with them when they wake up from a nightmare. Feeding them, caring for them. You did that for TWO WEEKS. I've done more then that.

He sighed and throw his hands up. "We can argue this all we want, but the end result is going to be that I will get my kids back. I'll have the legal paperwork delivered here within a few days."

"You won't get away with this Vincent."

He turned and started walking away, his parting words echoing back to her. "I will, because I get away with everything."

[Vinny]

Vinny sat in a chair while the court clerk was looking over his paperwork. As the clerk shuffled through the small mountain of papers that were filled out, in triplicate, he sighed softly. The wheels of justice turned slow, even when they were greased by doing everything correctly. "I do hope that everything is in order?"

The clerk looked at him from over her glasses. "Everything appears to be, Mr. Smith. Although if you don't mind my asking, just why are you filing for guardianship? A man of your reputation hardly strikes me as the type to be taking care of kids."

Vinny's eyes narrowed as he glared at the clerk. "Then you don't really know me that well, do you? I'm a man of many layers. And having taken care of these particular children before for an extended period of time, I love them as I would my own, if I had any. So let's worry less about opinions, and more about getting this paperwork processed. It'll all be brought out in the hearings anyways."

The clerk, being somewhat intelligent, knew to keep his mouth shut at that point. the paperwork was filed as soon as possible, and managed to make it's way onto the docket for a preliminary hearing in the next few days. Upon getting confirmation of this, he took the summons, saving the delivery boy time, and headed off. Anne would find a summons waiting for her at the Palazzo. Given the timing of this, which couldn't be worse given her other trial, Vinny was sure that she'd be going out of her mind right about now. The only thing left was to get ahold of that elusive Kendrick.

[Kendrick Albrecht]

Mr. Albrecht,

I regret that we were not more formally introduced the
other night, but given the people in the room and
current events surrounding myself and those people,
the opportunity was not there.

I'm aware that you have a background with Mr. Feren
and Ms. Xile from their recent trip to Rigel, although
I am not aware of how deep this relationship goes. I'm
sure that you aware however, of the felonious nature
of activities that these two frequently partake in.

I would greatly appreciate it, and be willing to
compensate for, knowledge of their activities while on
Rigel, especially anything which I can use against
them for character assassination in our upcoming court
date. I would also appreciate information on Klinton
Caer and Azjah von Drachen Wald, as they are sure to
challenge my claim as well.

A notarized statement will suffice, unless you would
be willing to appear in court to give your testimony.

My thanks to your quick repsonse on the matter,

Vincent VM Smith

He looked the note over silently. His mind raced as he thought of the possible implications and finally a wide smile spread over his face. He quickly penned a response,

Mr. Smith,

I would be glad to appear in court to give testimony as to the fitness of one Miss Anne Xile to be legal custodian of the two children in question. I am aware of the date of the hearing and will attend on that day. Due to the almost certain resistance that will come from this fact, due to certain personal matters that Lord and Lady Caer and I have yet to conclude to our mutual satisfaction, I am afraid that I will not be able to make myself available to you before then as she would undoubtedly take the opportunity to remove me from you list of witnesses by any means necessary. I wish you well until then and am happy to know that the children will have such a loving guardian in the future.

Respectfully,
K. A.

Kendrick folded up the response and Vincents letter. Tommorow he would send it off and no doubt the fun would begin soon after.

[Azjah von Drachen Walde]

The attorney's had brought me copies of the paperwork that had been filed by Mr. Vincent Smith with the RhyDin authorities wherein he is seeking the custody of Anne's children, at the expense of Anne's character, and her feelings. It amazes me that Vincent, who had once called Anne a friend, was now turning like some kind of venomous snake on her. He has to know how much it will hurt her. He certainly knows how much she loves those children despite the circumstances of their birth.

He was seeking custody of the children on the grounds that Anne is an unfit mother. The unfortunate thing is that those who will make this decision have not seen the Anne we know. They haven't seen her with her children, and how much she will do to protect and love them. Vincent's timing is simply lethal. And, he knows that. I read and re-read the forms and charges as I waited on Twilight Isle in solitude for a very long time.

Klinton and I would have to present our papers to the courts, and that should disallow Vincent's challenge for custody of the children. Anne had named us legally the godparents and guardians in the event that anything happened to her given the circumstances of her trial. While Klinton and I are continuing to hope that she will be acquitted, and that our lawful claim to the twins will not be needed, it appears that this is a good contingency in light of Vincent's inexplicable effort to seek custody of the youngsters.

I penned a note to the lead attorney, requesting that he also have Vincent investigated. If you dig deeply enough, you can find unsavory information about anyone. Including Vincent. He is known for animal abuse, and has been less than stable in his time in RhyDin. These facts must be brought to bear should he continue to press his hand.

At length, Shard came out from her tower with a book in hand. She was reading a treatise on the elements, and learning some interesting tidbits judging from the sly smile she gave me when I asked.

I slid the documents back into the valise as Kalinda stepped through the portal. She carried a box that looked like fancy chocolates, and headed for a table near the rings. She seemed a bit distant and maybe a little disappointed as she settled down to wait, inviting anyone to share the chocolates she'd brought with her. Unfortunately, the Isle was nearly deserted, and as the evening progressed, the chocolates remained untouched. In retrospect, even though I do not favor the sweet, I should have done her the courtesy of trying them. Somehow there is a story to that chocolate offering, but I am not privy to the meaning for Kalinda.

Anjolie arrived some time later. Her spirits were a distinct opposite to Kalinda's as she headed into a ring with Keith. I did have to smile as she extolled the virtues of having a plant in his apartment, but Keith seemed oblivious to her encouragement to add greenery to his home. The green house Cory built for her has definitely been a good thing for Anjolie.

Farek.

Are there two syllables in the common tongue that ellicit an almost physical revulsion any better? He stepped through the portal and headed for the bar, "Sometimes I amaze even myself."

That certainly cannot be too difficult!

He found his bottle of rot-gut gin, sucking down a goodly portion before eying the crowd. Thankfully, Esperwind had come, and I could avoid the odoriferous fumes of his cigar!

As I asked Esper about some time to discuss the priests of his homeworld and their abilities to read the psionics of hand written documents, Keith spoke up, "Even my boss can read psionics."

I turned toward him, "And your boss is.....?"

He grinned, "You need ot know her alias? or her name?"

I smiled, "Well, some indication who 'she' is would be helpful. There are a number of 'she's' in RhyDin."

Lucien remained invisible to everyone, and I hazarded a glance in his direction. As Keith gave me the name "Rai Lerdann-Gair", Lucien mouthed "Rhaine Rustovich." This was an alliance I had not recognized, but would be good to remember.

Keith continued on, "there are packs of white robed priests around this town, you might ask some of them. Boss is usually busy til' dizzy."

While Esperwind and I are not friends in the traditional sense, I think I will seek his direction to his own priests for this reading. Something tells me a disinterested reading will be needed.

[Azjah von Drachen Walde]

The evening was marred for me when Vincent arrived. He found himself a place with the elven Queen, Teleperien, who by accounts I am hearing is not acting herself. She has taken on a decidedly dark sense of humor and interest, and her choice of clothing has brought about remarks. The two of them sat talking before Vincent looked at me, inviting me to join him in a ring.

“I will duel you in the Courts Mr. Smith.” I simply cannot imagine why he has decided to challenge Anne for her children. Why he has chosen to cause her pain with his actions when she may lose her very life.

He snorted, “that won’t be a duel. More like a decimation of your efforts.”

I gave him a very cold look, “You over estimate your chances.”

He smirked, “My legal team’s put together quite the case. I like my chances.”

I crossed my legs as I sat beside Brigath, “If you were a friend and cared anything at all about Anne, you would not do this. But since you are, we will see you denied.”

He grew nasty, “You mean how Anne backstabbed me and ran off with Caleb? Friends don’t do that to friends.”

He was acting as though he were a jilted lover! “She deserved none of your actions Vincent. She never gave you a reason to believe she would be your consort!”

He smiled a smile that my my blood curdle, “Relationship problems get so much more interesting when kids are involved.”

“Vincent, you are being unreasonable. Those are not your children. Anne is not your wife, nor your girlfriend. You are being hurtful for no valid reason.”

“Is it hurtful to want to take care of children that one considers his own, and see that they are raised in a proper environment? One devoid of assassins, pirates and arms dealers?”

Ah, so he would try to convince the courts that Klinton and I are unfit as well. This will get very interesting when our team points out his nefarious activities. “But they are NOT your children Vincent. And Anne is no longer a pirate.”

With a bland shrug, he announced that he did have a legal claim to them, announcing that the courts said he did.”

“No, you are twisting the laws to try to get the courts to say that, but you do not have a claim to them.”

He believes that simply because his paperwork was accepted that he has a valid claim, but unfortunately, the courts allow all sorts of bogus charges to be laid, many with absolutely no valid basis. His will be proven to be one of those, he simply does not yet realize it.

With that, our discussion was at an end. He was enjoying getting under my skin too much, and I did not wish to tip our hand to him in the least.

Brig stood up and stretched as I began to brush the sand off of him. “Can’t have you go home to your tower like that.”

He grinned, “Well, I can, but then I’d have to clean up, and that would be annoying.” He then did a tushy shake to emphasize the point.

I gave him a playful swat, “leaving me, hmmm?”

His grin was completely unrepentant, “Sadly, yes, though you are welcome to come with me. I’ve got to get some rest, but I usually wind down with a drink at the top of the tower after a shift.”

I rose off the sand, brushing the fine grains out of my shorts, “I would love to Brig.”

He waved to the patrons as he gave my backside a brush, “you missed some there.” And then he lifted us both from the beach and flew us toward his tower.

[Azjah von Drachen Walde]

As I walked out from the back room, the Arena was fairly empty. Kalinda was looking for a table in the back as I headed for the infamous caller’s sofa that Onyx had had installed. The red velvet couch was notorious for licking, or biting, as it saw fit. I eyed it warily as I asked Kalinda how she was doing. One of these days I’m going to remember to bring my chaise from the Isle for these nights, and avoid that sofa as much as possible.

Kalinda was under the weather, apparently she’d over imbibed and was suffering the consequences. I sent Hubie for my scotch and warily sat down on the sofa.

Kalinda was telling me that she needed to return a room key she held, and I gave her a grin, “should I ask?” She laughed and told me that all she could say was that it was NOT Skyler, and that while she’d been in a mood to do something she would regret, she wasn’t out to commit suicide after the fact. I gave her a merry laugh, “You do not look like the kind of lass who would find favor with such a youth as Skyler.”

“He did try. I believe he finds desire in the denial.” She said. I have to agree, the boy is perverse enough to do just that.

The room began to fill slowly and a verbal spar had sprung up between Charlie and Rix. When I heard Charlie tell Kalinda, “good, then I can kill him and you wouldn’t mind?” With a chuckle, I reminded Charlie that the Arena is neutral ground, and even I couldn’t kill Kendrick the night he’d been in the rings speaking to Siewelt.

Rix was grumbling about ingrates, and informed me that Charlie and Kalinda were not a threat to him. I gave Charlie a quick look. Personaly, I would not want the woman as an enemy.

Rix announced that no one read the histories any more when I confessed I was not privy to his alleged notoriety. At that point Geffen Siewelt arrived. I had not seen Herr Siewelt around since the night I discovered Kendrick had taken up with him. If I had suspicions about him before, I was positively certain of them now. "Good evening Herr Siewelt."

He descended the stairs and smiled politely, but it did not reach his eyes. "Good evening to you as well."

Since we were apparently going to be publicly friendly, I gave him a smile, "We have missed your sparkling wit Herr Siewelt."

"Please," he muttered as he kept his urbane smile intact and proceded to find an acceptable table near the rings.

I took a sip of scotch to cover my amusement.

General Xenograg followed soon there after, and he headed toward the bar and was soon joined by the tallest elf I think I have ever seen.

Vincent dragged himself in, and he appeared to have been far from his usual chipper self. A small part of me hoped he was very miserable. G~d knows he's made Anne's life completely miserable.

He found a duel with Rollo and I called the rat fink to the ring, where I truly hoped Rollo would cause him great pain.

Vincent smirked, "you really need to stay more professional."

I glared at him, "you will be professionally shown the error of your ways next week Mr. Smith."

Rollo gave us both a puzzled look as Vincent assured him not to worry as I was "upset" about his "doring what's right."

"Horse hockey Vincent! You are doing what is undeniably wrong." Kalinda had come to join me, and I warned her about the sofa and its propensity to lick, or bite the unsuspecting who sat upon it.

Rollo asked Vincent why I would be upset at him for doing what is right, and Vincent had the grace to admit that "right" was a very subjective thing.

I glanced at Rollo, "he is trying to take two children away from their mother when they are not even his children, WHILE she is on trial for her life!"

Rollo regarded me a moment, "if she is on trial for her life, should she fail, would it not be best that a surrogate already be in place?"

I shook my head, "she has a surrogate Rollo. A duly sworn and appointed set of parents, and they are NOT Vincent and his floosie."

Vincent faced Rollo in the ring, "I simply object to those surrogates." Vincent's expression changed abruptly, "Since when is an upstanding member of the community a floosie?"

I wanted to say 'since she has anything to do with you', but managed not to voice that opinion.

Face, the resident wookie spoke up, "may I ask you why it's your business then?"

I glanced over at Face, "because Anne is my friend, my employee, and those children are Klinton's and my g~dchildren."

He nodded, "and why is she on trial for her life?"

"Face, she was no angel, but she came to RhyDin and changed her life, turned it around." I didn't want to bring out a laundry list of Anne's charges.

He wanted to know what she was on trial for, so I shortened it simply to Black's murder. He thought about that, "why is it that Vincent tries taking the children?"

"THAT, Face, is the mystery for a man who claimed to be Anne's friend!" I was furious with Vincent every time I even thought about his challenge claiming Anne to be an unfit mother.

Vincent then spoke up, "because Face, I've cared for them before, and I feel they will be better off in my care again."

Face nodded, "ah, so you acted as their father figure."

Nodding, Vincent continued, "for awhile, while they were still but babes."

Face seemed to digest this news before continuing, "Is there anyone better suited to be watching them?"

I had seen enough of Vincent's pious garbage, and spoke up to answer Face. "How about the people Anne appointed? A couple who are legally wed, and not bed hopping with?"

Face frowned, "the question was directed to Vincent."

"Fine Face!" I took a sip of the scotch. Since Face didn't seem to think wedlock was an appropriate requisite over a single person of questionable activities and ties, all I could do was be thankful it was not the decision of the Wookie anyhow.

As Face kept questioning Vincent, I saw Rena kick him. I did have to smile at that point. She could do that again and I would certainly not object.

Vincent told Face, "not the arms dealer, that's for sure!" Better a legal profession than a nebulous covering of a hotel and a man who plays with penguins!

Face asked Vincent who the legally appointed guardians were. As Vincent did not respond to him, he looked toward me for his answer, but Rena whispered something to the Wookie that elicited a quick frown. "The arms dealer who doesn't like kids."

I had not heard what she said, but Face again asked me who the appointed guardians were.

I took a deep breath, "Klinton and I are Anne's choise. Legally filed and duly notarized."

That should have ended it, but Face continued. "Do you already have children of your own?"

I shook my head. "No Face, we do not. Not yet at any rate."

He nodded thoughtfully, "Is there a reason that you two do not have any children of your own already?"

I sighed. Klinton and I had only been married for 4 months, it was much too soon, and besides, I was getting too old. Face repeated his question. "Face, not that I feel that is a public discussion, suffice it to say we haven't been married all that long and I'm getting old."

He shrugged, "how old are the children?"

I told him they looked older than they were, but chronologically they were about 5 months old.

"And how old are you now?" he pressed.

When I did not respond, he asked a second time, and what I would not have given for Rena to have kicked his shins soundly at that point. Alas, she did not. "How old are you if you're getting too old?"

I turned ice blue eyes on him, "I am 33 Rigelian years of age Face. But in most cultures, that is not a good thing to ask females."

He shook his head, "it is a good question for this situation. Have you always wanted children?"

I had grown weary of his questions, they served no purpose and would not be admitted into court. "Face the courts will decide this since that one insists on pressing his bogus challenge to Anne's right to indicate who she wants to raise her children in the event that she is found guilty."

He shook his furry head, "why dodge simple questions?"

Why? Because I do not see merit in his interrogation into a subject that is no concern of his. Face is not on the jury that will hear the plaintiff's challenge. "Face, children never have been a part of my life, but I do not expect Anne to lose her children at all. This is a contingency plan, but what angers me is that he is doing this right in the middle of her re-trial. Using that as his argument for her unfit status. Would a 'friend' do that?"

He continued as if my point had no significance. "So if she is found guilty, the kids would go somewhere that isn't very welcome to children."

"I never said that Face."

Face shrugged, "you said children have never been part of your life, and your patience tonight worries me of your patience with young children. Maybe Vincent islooking at the best interests of the children. That does seem like a thing a friend would do."

I gave Face an incredulous look. He hadn't seen how distraught Anne had been when Vincent told her what he was doing, and certainly a friend would not cause this kind of anguish to anyone at a time such as this. Furthermore, Face was certainly not positive of Vincent's motivation since he was offering "maybe's" and "perhaps". No, Face was not seeing the real motive behind Vincent's actions. If Vincent were a friend, he might have challenged Klinton and I if Anne loses, but now????! I turned cold azure eyes on Face, "A friend would not seek to take your children during the trial, whether you are found innocent or guilty. Vincent is trying to take the children from her at all costs Face. Those are not the actions of someone friendly to Anne."

He nodded, "no, but if he is looking at it that the children should stay somewhere that they are more welcome, I don't see that as a bad thing."

Who the devil could possibly be more welcoming to those children than their own mother???? Has the wookie lost his mind? Or does the wookie think it is alright to steal children away form their birth mother if the culprit deems that his method of raising the children is 'better'? "I think trying to take the children away from a loving mother is a vile, reprehensible thing Face."

He disagreed, and told me that my patience continues to concern him.

What the devil my patience has to do with right and wrong of Vincent's actions remains a mystery to me. "Face, those children belong with their mother, and that is my stand until the trial is concluded." I would fight for Anne's rights to her children as long as I needed to do so.

The wookie then told me "I sensed a lot coming from you and Vincent. I sensed a lot of love coming from Vincent. It seems that he isjust looking to give the children a place where they could be nurtured and grow. If they go to you, who would watch them mainly? Klinton and yourself? Or servants?" He tilted his head as I refused to engage in that discussion. Klinton has been seen regularly playing with those children. He loves them dearly, AND his questions suppose that Anne will not be here for them. A result I am unwilling to accept at this time.

Face shook his head, "you may be able to pay off the judges in your court systems, but if there were Jedi here to look over the justice, I have a feeling the results of this trial for the children would be much different."

I gave Face a hard look, "then Jedi justice would be remiss."

He chuckled, "you obviously don't know who the Jedi are, do you? Or what we can sense? We feel more and see more than you can imagine. The Force shows us many secrets much more than a judge would be able to tell from your compelling story. It's sad that in this place money wins trials, and not justice."

The wookie was accusing me of using my money to influence the judges?? "Justice Face, is to keep the children with their mother, and when such is not possible, to have the wishes of the mother followed." It is Anne who is responsible. Her choices need to be followed. Her decision for how those children should be raised should remain paramount.

We disagreed. "The interests of the children must be put into consideration. If the mother is on trial for murder, her judgment could be very clouded. I sensed a lot of love from Vincent for those children, though I don't sense it coming from you. Though maybe your hatred for Vincent masked it. I couldn't tell tonight."

Again he cited maybes and what if's. "I do not hate Vincent. I find his timing abhorent, and his friendship false."

Xenograg added, "and Vincent is of the Temple." Vincent is the last person living that should have those children.

Face shrugged, "either way I am not sensing the love for children that they need coming from you. If there is nothing clouding that, then maybe Vincent would love and care for them more than yourself and Klinton."

That angered me. Klinton adores those children! "Face, I do not konw what you think you can and cannot sense, but those children would have a home where they were loved."

He didn't see it that way, "Those children would get little attention from yourself. They would most likely be kept busy by your servants so that they do not bother yourself."

His charge was uncalled for. There is absolutely nothing wrong with children growing up with the best of life's offerings, and hired staff could assure that they had all that they needed to grow and thrive! "That is an unfair accusation since you do not know me, nor my household."

Face winced and I suspect Rena kicked him again. "No, but I do sense very little patience in you. I also see a child being upset in your past from quick agitation on your part when the child simply tried to cuddle with you."

I groaned. I was wearing an expensive silk suit that was not conducive to being grabbed and crushed by little sticky fingers. I looked at Face, "Children may not have been in my life, but that does not mean I cannot adjust." I did not add 'if needed' because I cannot think that Anne will lose.

He tapped his fingers on the table, "Vincent's home is a much better fit for these children. They would get much more love and attention than they could receive under your guardianship."

That pompous prig!!! I sipped the scotch. There was no point in discussing any longer. Finally I glanced at Face, "Mr Smith is not after those children out of love. He's out for Temple fodder." How dare Face believe that Klinton and I together could not love Anne's children!

"You have proof of this?"

I rose in preparation of leaving, "Face, just as you have your insights, I too have mine. He didn't want those children when he had them, suddenly he does."

Face gave me a desparaging look, "I don't have blind insights. The Force tells me things that people hide. There was nothing harmful to those children coming from him. Only love." But Face has admitted things can cloud his sight, and Vincent is certainly capable of such duplicity. Also, given the changes all Temple Initiates have undergone, I've not doubt Vincent would see the addition of the children into that Temple as a wonderful thing.

"Given his ability to create copies of himself, I'm not surprised Face."

The wookie underestimates Vincent's abilities ot manipulate magic.

[Anne]

I sat on the couch with Christopher and Katharine. Caleb was out for some reason, he was very secretive and wouldn’t tell me anything except ‘he was going for a walk’. The trial had just gone downhill, and they had found out about a couple more crimes that I had committed. The duration of this torture had extended even further so they could accommodate all of the evidence against me. I spent all my recreational time with the kids and Caleb. I new my life was limited and no one would fool me into believing otherwise.

Caleb and I had been wed as planned and sometimes I wonder what I was thinking. When I had eventually said yes during the ‘ceremony’ I couldn’t help wondering what sort of fate I had sealed. It had been a month since Rhaine had started to heal my eyes. I only take the cloth off during the evenings so my eyes can adjust. It’s very bright and I still have troubles seeing colors clearly.

Vincent is still pressing to take my children. I don’t understand why a man that used to call me friend would try to do this. I love my kids and I do the best I can for them. But I’ve heard other people talking, about how he’d provide a better home for them. Sometimes I can’t help but think he’s right. They would have a stable home wouldn’t they? And he’s had good morals up till now…but I can’t bear to let them go.

Time will tell what happens, but it’s quickly running short. In two days the final day of trial will be held. I can all ready feel my soul being claimed by Davy Jones.

[Vinny]

Vinny sat down with his legal team from the law offices of Dewey, Cheetham, and Howe to go over how they were going to handle the trial. He kicked his feet up onto the table and folded his hands in front of him, grinning from ear to ear. "Ok boys. The trial's coming up in about a week. How're we going to win this thing so I can take custody of my kids?"

Dewey nervously shuffled some papers. "Well, in principle it looks like you have a strong case, although custody battles are so rare in Rhydin that most of our data had to be obtained from outside regions. We eally don't know what the courts will think."

Cheetham chipped in suddenly, much to Vinny's dismay. His voice sounded like nails on a chalkboard, but he was one of the best when it came to legal precedents, manipulating laws, and generally making sure his clients won. "In theory, you may win this case on legality alone. But, since this is the Rhydin court system we're talking about here, I can't say for sure. Current predictions have this turning into a big character bashing session. I will say though, that I advise against trying to bribe any of the officials. If you get caught and it becomes public, you'll be ruined and have no chance."

Vinny nodded. "So we're playing this thing straight up? Honestly, I don't see how this gives us an advantage. Anne does have possession of the kids, and possession is 9/10ths of the law. Is there anything at all we can do to give us that extra edge?"

"Well, the way I have the questioning planned, I think the best thing you can do is to stay on your best behavior" said Howe as he shifted his glasses. "We're planning on calling Ms. Xile, Mr. Feren, and that Mr. Albrecht fellow that you found to the stand and that's it. I am not calling yourself or Ms. von Drachen Walde to the stands. She has the potential to throw a wrench into the plan, but it may be advantageous to let her team call her up first and for us to be doing the cross examining. Easier to poke holes in her that way. With you, I expect that they'll call you to the stand as well. They'll need to in order to try and trap you in some line of questioning. But if they don't, and you stay off the stand altogether, I think it'll be an easy win. Even easier if Ms. Xile loses her other trial first. It'll give us even more ammo to use against her."

Vinny laughed as his feet came back to the floor. "Good work so far gentlemen. Now let's just hope that nothing goes wrong until then. We'll meet again the day before the trial, in 6 days. Just to be sure we haven't missed any possibilities."

[Anne]

I sat in my stone cell and looked out the barred window to catch the last glimpse of sunlight. The trial hadn't ended in my favor. I was excused on second-degree murder concerning Eliza's death but first-degree murder considering Black. I did the world a favor in getting rid of that man but of course, justice is justice. My sentence will be handed out less then a week from now. The jury has deemed me guilty but the punishment can vary. Life-long, or twenty-five years, in prison or the gallows. Personally I'd rather burn on a ship.

Caleb has been told to stay with the children. They need to know who their father is. They need to know how much I love them. If they go with Vincent they MUST know that Caleb takes precedence over him. Katharine and Christopher have grown vastly concerning their mental intelligence. They speak like they are twelve, look like they're five but in reality they aren't even a year old.

I've left a key to a chest that is within the cargo hold of the Death Mage. It contains my will, a few letters, and a picture of my mother and father. I know what's coming and I'm not about to fool myself that I've got a life left. I'm ready.

[Vinny]

It had been a late night at the arena for Klinton Caer, and it had not been made any easier by having another tiff with Azjah. He wrapped his coat tightly around him to keep the chill at bay, but he still shivered slightly when he head a voice come from the shadows.

"Of all the people who are involved in this fiasco, you've been oddly silent," said Vincent as he stepped out of some shadows. "And given your recent problems that I've been hearing about, it makes me wonder if having the kids is what you really want out of this."

Klinton managed a smile after a moment. "Oh, the games we play Vincent."

A smile also creeped onto Vincent's face as well. "I'm well aware of games."

"I want the children with their mother." Klinton's mouth hung open for a second more, but closed it without giving in to the temptation to say more.

Tilteing his head slightly at the hesitation, Vincent decided to keep hammering on this particular tack. "Did they even ask your opinion on the matter? Or is Azjah still just viewing you as arm candy while she goes out for "drinks" with Brigath?"

Klinton shook his head slowly. "Ya know...you may have had at least some bit of an ally....at least until that statement."

Vincent shrugged his shoulders nonchalantly. It seems like he was going to have to take a different route. "I didn't expect any allies in this matter. I'm really just curious as to how much you wanted things to go this way. Are you going along with it because she wants you to, or because you want to?"

"I want to make something clear Vincent. I do not WANT the children. I want the children with Anne....if they can be around Anne, and I happen to have guardianship...then so be it. I will gladly care for them....treat them as my own. But I am not their father...Anne is their mother."

The smile came back to Vincent's lips as he nodded in understanding. "Thank you for enlightening me. And for giving me another nail to put in your coffin."

Klinton again shook his head. "Don't think I was not aware of what I was saying Vincent."

"I know you're aware of what you said. But with all the manipulations and twistings I've done, don't you think it would be easy for me turn your statements against you in court?"

Klinton nodded, fully aware of it. "Yes. I'm sure you could do it quite easily."

"It's why I've stayed quiet and haven't done much on the matter. It seems like all of you are willing enough to dig your own graves. I rather like it that way. Keeps my hands clean."

"Children or no children Vincent, my grave is not dug. I believe the family should stay together. If the courts see that as unacceptable...well then, I have no doubt that you would care for them to the best of your ability. But if I can play a part in the family staying together, I will...if that means I have legal guardianship...again, so be it."

Vincent's arms crossed in front of him as his face took on a more serious tone. "I do believe that is the most senseable thing I've heard anyone say on the situation since it started. Certainly more sensable than anything Anne or Azjah has said."

"There is something in them that is not in us, Vincent."

"Maternal instinct and several different hormones?" The remark was flippant and purposely sarcastic, but at least showed that he got the picture.

" I don't feel that you went about this the best way...filing for custody. Again, I feel that you would certainly care for the children...and, even if I had custody, I would not feel as if you could never seen them. I'm sure that Anne would have allowed you to see them as well."

He sighed. "It's not the same, to be able to see them but not be called 'dad'."

"The unfortunate thing, is that if you lose, you will not be able to see them, unless the courts grant you rights." Klinton was smart enough to realize that Vincent did indeed have a very good chance of gaining custody, but there was always the hope that Anne would be able to keep the kids.

"I haven't even allowed myself to think of the possibility of losing.
I just want my kids back. Is that so wrong, for a father to want that?"

"No. Not at all. But the same goes for Anne. Should they be shut off from her?"

"It seems like she might not be alive long enough to argue that point. I hear her other trial is a mess right now." He bit his lip thoughtfully, debating a few things for a moment before speaking again. "Let's make a deal."

"Vincent...I must admit, I do not think you are an unreasonable man. I do not think you would harm those children at all, but I will not agree to it until I hear the terms."

He chuckled softly. "I didn't expect you to. Should she be found not guilty, I will drop the suit if three conditions are met. One, I am to be designated the actual father on the birth certificates. Two, I will be granted visitation rights, off grounds and unsupervised. Three, I am to be refered to as their father, even by them. Pass that on to Anne, and see what she thinks."

Klinton listened carefully before nodding. "I am uncertain about the birth certificates...not sure how that legally can be done....but I will give them your terms."

"Legally, or illegally done. I care not. Money can solve a lot of 'legal issues'."

"Fair enough, but I have my own terms. You terms are null and void should this conversation ever come up against Anne's case in the custody trial."

His reply came almost immediately. "Granted. Hopefully this matter won't even go to trial now."

Klinton offered a hand. "It might have been much better off had you come to me first. We can speak with reason."

The handshake was returned and Klinton headed on his way, leaving Vincent alone with only a few falling snowflakes as company. Things were working out quite well, and no matter which turn they took, he was prepared for it.

[Klinton Caer]

I stepped into the outback after winning my TDL. I was a bit sweaty, but happy. Azjah had just stepped in before me. She turned, asking if I was going to fight or join her. I said I would gladly join her, and she kissed my cheek commenting that I looked pleased, and I explained that I had just one.

We ordered drinks, and toasted Anne and Caleb’s happiness in their life together. I sipped my drink, and decided to break the news.

“I had an interesting conversation with Vincent, Azjah.”

She was cold toward the mention of his name. “I’ve had several, but I would not have called them interesting.”

I ignored her coldness. “He gave me some conditions, and if the conditions are granted, he will drop the suit.”

Azjah’s tension was obvious. “Conditions? Who does he think he is assigning conditions.”

“I think we should discuss them with Anne. He’s just telling us what he would like us to do, and if we agree, he’ll drop the lawsuit. Which means, Anne will have custody. That’s what we want, isn’t it?”

“Klinton, why should Vincent have any say about anything to do with Anne’s children?”

I shook my head. “He cares for them. He honestly sees himself as their father.”

“Klinton, I’m not so sure about that. I don’t believe he’s got their best interests at heart. I think he’s trying to get them for that Temple.” She sipped her scotch.

I sighed. “If he were going to harm them, he would have. It’s not like he hasn’t had the opportunity.”

“He can’t just take them to that Temple he belongs to just yet, but, why the sudden interest in them? He didn’t even want them before.”

“I don’t know Azjah. He seemed pretty convincing to me.”

“So what did he say?”

I explained the conditions that Vincent had given me.

Azjah was furious, slamming her glass down. “NO. NO NO and NO again!”

I leaned back, trying to be non-confrontational. “I’m the messenger Azjah, just presenting his conditions.”

“That man has NO claim to those children. Who in the name of Hades does he think he is, making those kinds of demands?”

This was turning in to quite a scene. Others were making comments now, I tried to ignore them.

“Klinton, you can’t even mean to give Anne those conditions?”

“I told him I would tell her what they were.”

“Simply unbelievable!” She was exasperated. “So what, Caleb is just a non-entity? What about his rights in marrying Anne?”

“It’s not like he wouldn’t be able to see them. Anne would still have custody.”

“Unsupervised? Would you want to send your children off with someone of Vincent’s ilk unsupervised?” She was ranting now, there was no use in me interrupting her. Caleb kicked open the door, and stepped in.

“I have to say Vincent is pretty good with those kids.” I stated calmly, after letting the initial shock settle in. “I believe he does care for them.”

“That is simply NOT the point.”

“Knowing that he cared for them, Azjah, yes I would send my kids unsupervised. That is my answer to the question you asked.”

Azjah gave a look of disbelief. “Well, I would never. And if I know Anne, she won’t trust him one iota.”

Just as she finished, I found myself being lifted into the air. “You can bloody well send your own bloody kids, craven.” Caleb had pulled me out of my chair.

Azjah protested Caleb’s actions, and he slammed me back into the chair. I fumbled for words, a little shocked. “I am simply stating his wishes. Do not think I am the enemy here.”

“You are now, craven. You yourself said you would allow your kids with that twisted git.”

“Those are not my kids. It is not my decision. So what I think really doesn’t matter at all, does it?”

Caleb continued. “Then you won’t mind me marking you as dead if you come for the kids…will you?” Caleb was all business, while Azjah argued with the other patrons about the kids belonging to Anne.

Caleb spoke about vows. About me breaking my vow as a Godfather. “You are no mare than Vincent now.”

Azjah spoke about having a united team, all I could say to Caleb was, “I’m sorry you feel that way.”

Caleb stepped back out. Azjah asked “Can you in good conscience be fore it in those circumstances?”

I sighed. “That, Azjah, is why I don’t have children. I could never make that decision, I can see Vincent’s point of view…that’s all.”

“I cannot see his point of view at all. He is not their father. Never was. It’s not like he has any interest beyond those of a friend Klinton.”

“But he has interest. I honestly think he cares for them…in which case he has A LOT of interest.”

“Not at the expense of Anne. No friend has that right Klinton. And what, precisely, did you mean about ‘that’s why you don’t have children?”

“Because I could never make a decision about those terms Azjah. And never, never in any of this have I called Vincent a friend. He cares for the children. I’m not saying he’s Anne’s friend.”

We continued arguing for quite some time. I argued that I saw where he was coming from…Azjah argued that he had no right what-so-ever.

I moved to Azjah, who had begun pacing, and took her hand, whispering. She closed her eyes and rested her head on my shoulder.

I am to the point of exhaustion over this. If it continue to comes between Azjah and I, I will simply shut my mouth. I am not about to discuss something that will cause a rift…and so if the rift continues, I wash my hands of it.

Azjah and I stepped out, and headed to the Palazzo.

[Anne]

I paced in my cell. I've heard word that things aren't going well with the custody battles. Vincent has always had the kids best interest in mind, but I don't see how taking them away from me is good for them. I'm not an A-Class mother, I'll be the first to admit it. However, I'm learning, and I am trying my best. The crimes of my past have been forsaken and I haven't so much as stolen a candy bar since I killed Black.

The kids came to visit me today. They're worried about me. I told them that it's okay to be afraid. Courage doesn't mean the absence of fear, it means overcoming it. That's one of the few things I remember my mother telling me. I asked them, as I did every day, who their father and mother were. "You mommy! And he's daddy!" They would say pointing to myself and Caleb in turn. Good. I would tell them the stories of sailing, ones without thievery or fighting. I would tell them all that I knew about how to sail ship. They brought me cookies that I taught them to make one day. Tears threatened to spill from my eyes as they talked about their studies that Nathaniels wife was giving them. Katharine loved her maths, sciences, and music. Chris enjoyed writing, socials, and art.

Visiting hours closed too soon. I put my hand up to the unbreakable glass pane between us. Each hand was placed over mine before they left. However, I would not escape so easily. "Mommy?" Chris asked. "Why are you in there?" I choked as I searched for an explanation to give my children. My eyes met Calebs a brief moment before I looked back at Chris. I wouldn't lie. I promised myself never to lie to them. "Mommy wasn't a good girl when she was younger. But she's a good person now. They might not let me out though, because they don't think I'll stay good. I'll let you know what happens okay? Remember, you can never get away with doing something wrong."

The small boy accepted the answer, but I could still see he had questions in his eyes. If only I could change the past.

[Azjah von Drachen Walde]

The next day I called the team of attorney’s and gave them Vincent’s demands for dropping the suit. Attorney Peck was deeply troubled. “You do realize that if our client accepts his terms, she leaves herself and those children open for further action. Additionally, in the event that she is found guilty, those provisions mean the children would go to Mr. Smith rather than Mr. Feren or yourself. As the ‘natural father’ which is what he is trying to establish, there would be no precedent that would permit either Mr. Feren or yourself to keep them.”

I nodded. I had recognized that, but couldn’t make Klinton see it. Her defense team had to make Anne understand that Vincent’s terms were not acceptable.

Later that night I went to Twilights Isle.

Kalinda was there, and I asked her how she was enjoying the sofa. She said she was enjoying the sofa very much, but that she had been home and had actually missed the disgusting thing.

Topaz and Rhaine arrived, but the Isle was fairly quiet. When Moyrloch came, there was a discussion about a demon that I learned later was the source of Moyr’s obsidian arm as the demon had eaten the original!

Since there was no dueling, I pulled out the papers from the lawyers. They had done as I’d asked, going to speak to her regarding the dangers and risks of Vincent’s indecent bargaining.

I updated Rhaine on Vincent’s activities, and Kalinda wanted to know why I didn’t simply discredit him, but I don’t fight dirty unless I have to.

Anjolie arrived, and I noticed that lately she’s been distracted and just very slightly ‘off’. Dark clothes and lack of patience were also more pronounced, but tonight she seemed delighted to see Moyr.

Klinton stepped through the portal as I was telling Cory that I’d finally gotten rid of the red velvet sofa. He advised me that it would be back, but it wasn’t yet, and I was quite thrilled about it’s absence.

Klinton looked around, “hey, where’s the couch? That thing’s always made my job easier.”

I smiled at Klinton, “It has a new home, where it will be appreciated.”

As Esperwind arrived, I went and changed coming back with twin glasses of scotch and dropped onto the chaise beside Klinton. He hadn’t spotted the envelope from Attorney Peck, but I grew a bit nervous. He wouldn’t like my actions, and I couldn’t remove it without drawing attention to it.

He’d asked how my day was going, and I tried to steer the conversation away onto safer subjects like Anjolie and the mare I’d bought from her.

He nodded, “that’s not entirely what I was referring to. You seem a little off.

In the end, I admitted to talking to the lawyers. One thing I have not been able to do is outright lie to him. Omission, yes. Lies to direct questions, no.’

[Azjah von Drachen Walde]

He sighed, “Anne doesn’t even know the offering yet Azjah!”

I sat up straighter, “I didn’t say anything to Anne. I just told the attorneys, they’ll talk to her.”

“Azjah, that is blatant disregard of me!” he charged.

I frowned at him, “I disagree. You asked me not to talk to her until you did. So I have not.”

He gave me a hard look, “Azjah, you know what I meant by that statement. And you know that by doing what you did, it was simply a way around it. In your political life, that may be accepted. But not in our marriage!”

I bristled instantly. How dare he try to lay conditions on my actions? “Excuse me?” I said in a soft but menacing tone.

He ignored the silken warning, “I wanted to speak with Anne. I wanted to tell her his terms. You have gone behind my back to speak with her lawyers, so they will speak to her about it before I do.”

Folding my arms before me, “It was not my fault you didn’t see her,” came a perfectly reasonable counter to his charge. I rose quickly, grabbing the stilettos as Klinton sighed and headed toward the portal without a word.

Anjolie had beaten him to the portal, and the two of them left the Isel without a word to either Cory or myself. I reached the portal and in exasperation, threw the long heels through, hoping they’d collide solidly with my husband’s back. I swore savagely in Rigelian as Cory growled at the now departed Anjolie.

Cory quirks a brow at me, “Didn’t like those shoes much?”

“I growled back at him, “I loved those shoes, it’s the man that preceded them I was trying to hit.”

He tilted his head slightly. We were both apparently in the same proverbial boat, “Don’t need to say a’nutha word.” He told me as he too glared at the portal before us.

I took a deep breath, “I do hope Dyson has a sofa ready for him.”

He smiled, “wha’, ain’t go’ no dog house?’

I gave him a rueful grin, “I could sent him to the stables I suppose.”

He continued to glare at the portal as though it was the source of his problem, “think I need to ‘crack the whip,” so to speak too.”

I shook my head, “you know Cory, sometimes I have to wonder if all this is aggravation is worth it. Care for a glass of scotch?”

He blinked at me before saying that a drink sounded pretty good to him.

I turned and headed back to the bar, telling him that I would buy, and we settled onto the stools at the bar with two glasses and an entire bottle of good Balvenie scotch.

He looked at me, “flip a coin for who vents first?”

I laid a silver noble on the table in front of him. He flipped it, calling heads as it was in the air. And heads it was.

He laid the coin on the bar before beginning. “These past coupla’ weeks somethings been diggin’ at Anjolie. She’s been reclusive ‘n cold. When ya can find’er, she’s either walkin’ out the door, or too busy to talk. Stayin’ up and out all hours of the night.”

I slowly sipped the scotch before asking him if there was anything he could point to as the source or root cause of her discomfort.

“I go’ a few ideas. “n th’ way she presents herself, ya noticed ‘er wearing more darker colors? Normally she’s vibrant ‘n a pleasure to be around. Lately though…”

His voice trailed off, “Any of those ideas likely to bear fruit?”

He shook his head, “I don’t wanna count my chickens ‘fore they hatch, yanno? If this keeps up and tha’ one time she ignores our daughter, somethin’ unpleasant is bount to happen.”

I sipped the scotch thoughtfully, “I understand. Anything we can do?”

He frowned slightly, ‘tha’s the hangup. I don’t know iffn I should interfere or if this is just a bad phase, and I should just let it fizzle out.” He lifted the scotch to his lips.

“Hard to know sometimes when to act and when to just let it blow over.”

He continued, “now ya know why I’m so frustrated. Tonight wasn’t the first time I’ve been brushed off. It don’t botha’ me, it’s Kallie. I know it’d break ‘er li’l ‘eart for tha’ to happen.”

I frowned, “Kallie is suffering too?” I suspect it does bother Cory, but there is no point in refocusing him at the moment.

“Not tha’ I’ve noticed, I’ve managed to keep ‘er distracted when I could – but I can’t be there 24-7.”

I smiled, “telepathy would be nice, wouldn’t it?”

He worked on the scotch some more, “yah, yah it would, bu’ I’m only human. Only magic I have at my disposal is effective on the Isle only.”

He turned inward, and I figured I should try to find where my angry spouse had gotten off to. “I think I’m going to get Lucien to join me tonight. Hate to drink alone.”

He looked up, “Lucien?”

“An old, old friend,” I told him.

Cory nodded, “I jus’ gotta figure out what the deal is. This is such a 180 degree turn ‘round from Anjolie.” He gulped the scotch and I refilled it for him before he could decline.

[Azjah von Drachen Walde]

At length, I asked him to explain something to me from the male perspective, “why do men walk away from arguments?”

Esperwind spoke up, “I believe you left out part of the questions Azjah.”

I glanced over at him, “Oh?”

He continued, “Should you not ask, ‘why do men walk away from arguments with women?”

Cory nodded agreement with Esperwind. “Tha’s closa’ to th’ truth.”

I quirked a brow at both of them, “alright, amend my query to Esper’s wording. Why do men do that?”

Esperwind fairly smirked, “men are more intelligent than they look.”

I shot him a very dubious look as Cory proclaimed, ”we are!”

I chuckled at Cory, “I wasn’t questioning men’s intelligence, merely the motivation.”

“Wha’ was th’ argument about? Tha’ll help explain some.” He informed me as we remained sitting at the bar.

I frowned, “Seems we have different views on something rather important. You know Cory, I don’t know how two people can see things so differently based on the same facts.”

“Those are gonna happen, bu’ tha’s still goin’ on general information. Iffn ya don’t mind me askin’ wha’s so important? Ya gotta remember tha’ ya’ll were two diff’rent people with diff’rent ideals an’ belief’s.”

I rested my chin in my hands, “I’m trying to do what I think is right, at the request of someone I promised I’d help. But my other half is working in the opposite direction from me.”

He frowned, “completely opposite?”

I gave him a wry smile, “yeah.” Then rising with a sigh, “I’m going home Cory. Going to be tough getting to the car without my shoes. Hopefully one of them nailed him.”

He was still puzzled, but I needed to find Klinton, “A’ight then, lemme know iffn ya need to talk an’amore ‘bout this.”

I nodded my thanks to him, “you too.” And with that, I stepped through the portal into the chill of RhyDin.