Rehema looked down once more at the heavy stock card in her hand then up to the small wooden sign that read “Anansi Guardians” as if to make sure she was in the right place. She looked around as people passed, perhaps wondering why she was still standing there after a few minutes, an exaggerated amount of time in her mind, while she considered what to do next. Nothing bad had occurred per say since the two had parted. Prince Anansi was even kind enough to walk her to the clinic the following morning. It wasn't a long trip as he had conveniently spent the night. He had even gone as far as to speak to the clinic guard and offered them his card in case anything were to happen. Though she pretended not to notice, she had and it left a small smile on her face that lingered days after they parted.

Two days actually. Was that too soon? When she told him she wasn't in the market for an escort she had meant it at the time, and she was absolutely certain she wouldn't hire him after their passionate night, no that had conflict of interest written all over it.  She had acted uncharacteristically and while it was hauntingly pleasurable, he had a business to run and so did she. Except, those men were watching her. The ones with the injured friend. Ema had made note to as the night Healer if any construction accidents had come in during the night and there were none to be found. Things had been quiet, thankfully, so she was able to get much needed rest and even go to the local temple to commune. It was on her way back with a fellow Healer that she notices the first one, casually standing at the end of the street, his profile as unfamiliar as it had been when Corvo and she first arrived at her house. The second was behind them by the temple, she had noticed him. They appeared the next day as well, just outside the clinic, the darker one with wide set eyes.

This time she looked directly at him, though fear and anxiety bubbled up in her stomach. She wanted him to know she had seen him, it didn't seem to make a difference, not when he met hers right back.Lady Ranma was the one to insist on the added security and refused to allow Ema to go home without her guards, but she could not continue to lend out her own security, no matter how much Lady Ranma insisted that wasn't the case. “What about that tall Prince, the one who’s legs dangled off my cot and smiled at you.” The Healer had asked. “You said he was an escort, you should contact him.”

The card had burned a hole in her dresser for two days. Surely Corvo Anansi was already assigned to someone else, but she did need the help. Masika didn't like the idea of  having strangers spend any extended time in their home, but agreed that it was only a matter of time before her stalkers got a bit too bold.

A bell chimed overhead as she entered the offices.  A man greeted her, tall more mature but handsome, with familiar features and a square jaw. He introduced himself as Prince Anansi, and Ema smiled shyly and shook his hand. He was pleasant enough and he certainly seemed genuinely surprised to see her, or perhaps that was due to her Caste. Corvo had said they specialized in Healer’s.  “My name is Rehema Abbasi. I think I need an Escort.” Laying the card on the table, she smiled at the older man before folding her hands on her lap once more and smoothing out her skirts. Today she wore a thin strapped coral sun dress with a deep neck. A sheer ivory shawl draped across her bare shoulders and sharp collar bones. Instead of wearing her hair up in a bun, it hung lose in waves down her back. “Please excuse me, I'm not exactly sure how to hire one, I've never gone through this process before.”

She wasn't sure what to expect when arriving at Anansi Guardians, it wasn't as if she had imagined how the building would look or how there was a faint perfume of something citrus refreshing the air.  She wasn't surprised to see that the family worked together, however it was the elder Prince Anansi’s words that managed to trip her up. Corvo had spoken about her and for a moment she had a mild panic at just how much he had to tell and whether or not she should be turning a nice shade of beet. There was nothing in Prince Anansi’s behavior that made her suspect father and son had the kind of gross relationship that swapped telling stories about one another’s conquests and she quickly felt ashamed for even considering it.

Corvo had been nothing but a gentleman, no matter how often she had called him a rouge. He had treated her with respect even care and that was the only reason that she allowed things to go as far as she did. Rehema liked to think she had a well of self control, but on that night he had managed drain that all away. They enjoyed one another and that was all she cared about.  “Thank you. I hope that your son has taken my advice and rested?” She asked trying to switch back to professional courtesy.  He had mentioned her, but in what capacity? Right, the job.  Rehema’s main appeal was that she was a Healer and Corvo had been setting up the sales pitch pretty thick. That had to be it.

Following him in she nodded politely to the others in the room, her lips stretching at the corners into a faint smile as he motioned for her to sit. The curtains fell and she could feel the rest of the space become just a bit more intimate. Surely anyone could hear them, but there was something about the separation that could put clients at ease even if it was just the illusion of privacy. “Thank you.” Taking the offered cup she looked down into the amber liquid before taking a tentative sip. It was hot, actually, just as she liked it. Masika criticized that Ema enjoyed her tea to scald her mouth, but Ema argued that was the only way that someone patient enough could catch it at just the right temperature. The sting of heat didn't bother her.

“What does that entail exactly?” she asked, watching him thoughtfully. Corvo had told her how his father had come to this career, how meeting his mother, who was also a Healer had changed his life. It was endearing to see the wistful affection held in that memory.  “Oh.” she blinked a few times, opening her mouth and closing it again with a smile. She would be lying if she said that the thought of hiring Corvo wasn't the the forefront of her mind. Or that she wasnt pleasantly surprised that he was available. He had handled the two men well enough that they had backed away and he calmed her before she felt like she would crawl out of her skin.  She wasnt sure if she was here to hire him specifically, but then again she also didn't know if she was going to walk in through the door till just a minute ago, so she really was playing it by ear.  Convincing herself it was just practical to go with the only Escort she knew made more sense than wanting to see him again.

Even if she did want to see him again, it didn't matter because she wasn't hiring an Escort for his sexual prowess but for how competent he was at keeping her and in turn, her clinic safe. Keeping it professional was key. If they could do that, she saw no reason hiring the devil she knew, right? “I assumed Prince Anansi, your son, was already on another assignment.” Exhaling through a soft chuckle  she glanced down at her hands feeling a little sheepish. “Does he often worry this much about prospective clients?”  she asked, picking at her thumb. That was not a question for his father. “It doesn't look like your son fell far from that very tall tree.”  she eyed him. Daud had some considerable height, now that she thought of it, the ceiling in the office was vaulted, making the room look even bigger.

“If Prince Anansi is available then yes he would be suitable. I'm not sure if you’re familiar with my clinic? It is the Baudi Clinic on the east side near the newly constructed temple? It is small, but we have three Healer’s. Two of which have hired Escorts which provide the clinic itself two guards on service.” she explained. It was hardly sufficient, a fact that Nailah continued to point out if only by virtue of the Abbasi name Rehema should have had her own guards long ago. It simply wasn't safe, a point that was becoming painfully clear. “ I live in a small house with one of my sisters. As you may have gathered there are some challenges to being my Escort, namely who I'm related to. Its one of the main reasons I am here. How would the contract go? Would Cor...Prince Anansi pick me up in the morning and escort me back in the evenings? The guards for Lady Ranma work on rotation so they see her to and from her station. Your son gave me the impression that Anansi Guardians was more involved.”

A soft nod and a knowing smirk was the only confirmation that Prince Anansi needed. He knew the truth of it better than she, and had answered her query as she had expected.  Corvo wasn't much for taking good advice for as much as he claimed to respect Healers.  The younger version suffered from acute cockiness and a heightened but misguided perception of his own invincibility.  That was just her medical opinion. The biggest issue was that he could make those flaws seem charming.

There was nothing about his initial pitch that seemed off. If he was trying to sell her on the contract he was doing it without being pushy, which she appreciated.  They hadn't gotten to the finer details, but she felt a little less nervous already. Sipping her tea she nodded, hanging on his words. She asked about Corvo and though her outward appearance went unchanged she was glad he had not jumped straight into another contract. “I should be flattered that he waited. Either your son can tell the future or I'm just very predictable. Not sure how I feel about that.”

Flattered, but wary.

“Hm.” That did it. Flattery won over.  Corvo had spoken to his father about her at length, which meant she was at least memorable. He cared enough to walk her all the way back to the Baudi clinic, and had spent the night, which surprised her. To learn he was genuinely concerned for her safety had won him the contract. Setting her lips comfortably, she cupped the delicate tea cup within both her hands. The ceramic was comfortably hot, and her hands soaked up the familiar warmth. “And you Prince Anansi are taller than most. He must have kept growing to fill big shoes, at least that is the impression I received.”   A tender smile tugged at the corners of her lips. Corvo had spoken so fondly of his father and for that brief moment, his mother as well.

A map manifested on the table, unfurling before her. Rehema recognized the map on cripst papyrus. Her eyes shifted for just a moment to the memory crystal before returning to the sheets before her. It took her only a second to orient herself with the streets. Of course the first thing she sought out was the small temple which was to be demolished to make room for the larger on Nailah was having constructed some half mile away. Her eyes sought familiar landmarks,  until she found the intersection where she lived.  It was a small community, lined with humble, unassuming homes.  Once she had her bearings she pointed delicately to the sheet, her head tilted, a thread of pale pink whimsy spun from the tip of her finger lighting the exact route she took from the clinic to her house. “I take two, I change them every other day. This one is generally at the beginning of the week, its a shorter walk.” During grueling days the last thing she wanted to do was spend an extra fifteen minutes on foot.  The thread made the streets on the map glow. She then drew the second path, this one a bit darker, where she cut across a busy market and up the next block before coming to her house from the north instead of the east.

“I also visit the auctions, once a week.”  she said. This one she only pointed to a spot on the map five miles from her home in the opposite direction of the clinic. Prince Anansi would recognize the slave auctioneers right away. Cut apart from the general marketplace, this hub was used to crate in new Blood on a weekly basis. It was a place known only to the vastly rich and to those willing to squeeze blood from any coin.  There was little in between. Wealth and scum coming together for depravity. It was dangerous, and she had been going there for quite some time. “I will go and see to the slaves, see if anyone needs help. We have laws that keep masters from hurting these people...” Not ‘stock’ as some would call them. “But obviously not enough. I will continue to go there, though I'm open to changing the date.”  Considering how even Raejian Blood could be taken to the auctions, it was a miracle she had not found herself seized due to her caste alone. Until now it was the Abassi name that kept her safe. “The rest of the time I am home, or visiting my nephews in the Territory Court or in the city itself.  I live with one of my sisters as well. I don't see discretion as an issue, most Healer’s have guards and as we have discussed your son’s It's fine if he or any guards make their presence known.”  She added, wanting to supply Prince Anansi with pertinent information.

She didn't mention the men who had been following her the last few days. It felt like that would be something she would tell her Escort. The last thing she wanted was to have to pay a surcharge for the trouble.  That and, somehow it seemed rather personal. Ema didn't wish to be a burden on anyone, so it was a big deal that she was here to begin with. She wasn't sure Lady Ranma or Nailah would let her go another day without seeing to her security. “I suppose that's what I need, unless you have any recommendations?” Brushing a feathery strand of hair away from her eyes she offered  a soft but brief smile. “I assume there is a contract and terms.” So far he had told her what he liked to hear, but these contracts were often more involved than that.

“I see”

That was always a loaded statement. It implied judgement, or disapproval. Ema didn't feel insulted, it hadn't been his intent nor was there anything for her to feel defensive of. It was a matter of fact that she didn't take the safest routes when meeting with her patients, that sometimes in order to reach those in the most need, she was forced to take risks.  Kontar was one of the first to argue that she didn't have to make one of those risks her life, or her freedom, and he was right. It wasn't until she felt a justifiable danger that she decided to do something about it.

Then there was the matter of the cost. It was expensive to hire an escort, or even guards like Lady Ranma.  Ema paid the bulk of the necessities of her home and she used whatever stipends the local Courts offered for her personal use on the clinic. The majority of her money went there. Nailah would never understand what a relief her contributions had been. It was more than Rehema had hoped, which gave her some room to budget for something like this.

Ema had to remind herself that this wasn't a frivolous choice. Both Nai and Kontar had offered to pay for the service, but her pride wouldn't allow it. If Sika found out she had taken any money from Nailah especially it would not be pretty. That was before the men began to follow her, something she had yet to inform her siblings about. If she had it handled on her own, maybe the news would sit better. She was doing this because she needed the help. That was the only reason.

Of course.

It wasn't because there was only one night in the last 3 days where she hadn't felt utterly terrified to go outside.

Nodding once she offered nothing to his assessment. Prince Anansi wasn't wrong, except for being a woman of means. Ema always thought in more humble terms. The contract manifested and she leaned forward in her chair, peering over the desk at it cautiously. One thing caught her attention right away and that was the duration of said agreement, though she didn't interrupt him. Her eyes flicked up at his face once more. It seemed like a lot to take in. Corvo, a male unknown to her sister would be a fixture in their home, in her life for the entirety of a year. It wasn't as if she could fire him or send him away.   Her lips parted a question hanging on her tongue when out of the corner of her eye she noticed the curtain shift and Corvo entered on the heels of the conversation. He had been listening, ready to swoop in right as the final decision was made. A closing move.

He would recognize the look of mild amusement she offered as one that asked ‘Really?’, he had seen it at least twice the day they met. He’d better get used to that look.   Then, just as quickly, it dawned on her that she hadn't sensed his approach. His psychic scent was masked and now that she thought of it, the elder Prince’s aroma too was muted. It was only at this close distance that she could make note of it.  When she had first entered shed taken note of the citrus smell hanging in the air.  The Anansi Guardians must have some kind of Craft, perhaps even webs to hide the psychic traces of those who enter the building.  It was incredibly clever. “You use webs to hide your clients?” she asked, then tilted her head between them both. They certainly took every precaution.

Her lips twitched at a smile when he said he was glad she came. He didn't look surprised, then again, he had plenty of time to wipe the shock off his face while awaiting his grand entrance.  Turning back to Daud Anansi she smiled, blinked and looked down at the contract once more, reading through the lines carefully. She wasn't used to making such long term decisions, with the exception of the clinic. This made her nervous. She wondered if she could ask for a shorter contract, but they had both said it was standard, then she went over two or three more questions that Prince Anansi had already answered and felt foolish for her indecision.  Lifting the first page of the contract she read through each line, the gentle sound of the crackling paper was the only sound for a long moment.

She knew herself well enough to know that if she read over the contract again it would only be a stalling tactic until her anxiety had her fully in its hold. No, what she needed was decisiveness. “Can we add a clause that if you are hurt you are to heed my advice or I get a partial refund for my pain and suffering?”  she asked, looking at him askance.  It was all in order, the rate was good, hefty but good, the Guardian was tolerable, the terms, agreeable.  “Alright, I suppose, I now have some protection.”  She wasn't really speaking to them, but assuring herself that this was a good idea. This was for the safety of her patients, her clinic, her sister and most importantly, herself. It would be fine.

Taking in a breath she set the clipboard on the table and held out her other hand to Daud as she conjured a pen and signed her name elegantly on the dotted line. The older male took her hand gingerly and pricking her finger. A crimson pearl swelled almost immediately. Pressing it to the page next to her handwriting she completed the agreement and then exhaled.

“When can I expect you to start?”

Obfuscating their client’s psychic scents was a smart move and in this case it managed to cinch their deal. The attention to detail had put her at ease. Rehema gave herself permission to be proud of her own decisiveness, at least long enough to give her anxiety a chance to properly set in.  It had dawned to her just last night that she had a tendency to worry about the wrong things. All the unknowns in the world could be a trigger and yet her personal safety was treated with much less attention. Nailah and Kontar had helped make her realize that was not such a good idea.

She had almost laughed out loud when Daud amended the contract without any argument, even though it would undoubtedly effect his pocket book. All she had to do was raise her hand and gingerly motion toward the older male to answer Corvo’s question.  He did look well though and she found herself pleased to see him, even if his timing was too convenient.  Daud hadn’t wasted the opportunity to tease his son, she knew she liked the man before and now she knew why.  “Others? I also don’t want to scare my patients away. We see a lot of slaves, some come with their owners consent, most don’t.”   Their skittishness was understandable when they faced the choice between punishment and death through infection.  Corvo had learned some of this the night he stayed at her house. Again, she reminded herself, that it was a fluke, a pleasurable one but unrepeatable.

Taking a tally of her own mental state she noted that she was calm, no anxiety, but now anticipating its arrival was only exacerbating the issue. Instead she took a deep breath considered all that she had to accomplish in the day to make room for her new escort in her home. He knew the layout, most of it, which helped, but clearing some space for him would have to become a priority in her ever growing list of responsibilities. Then there was telling Masika they would have a semi-permeant guest.  The pebble sized knot formed in her stomach at that particularly uncomfortable thought. Masika would not be happy, she would have to find a way to reassure her.

“Now?”  she asked, surprised. “Don’t you have to gather your things?” Taking his hand she stood, taking the scroll with her and vanishing it. “Uhm, alright. “  Collecting herself quickly she turned back to Daud and offered him her hand. “Thank you for your help. It was a pleasure to meet you Prince Anansi. I will see you soon. “ Once she paid her respects to the older male they walked out arm and arm. Corvo was particularly smug, her brow raised, but she said nothing until they had made it half way down the block, even then she waited until a couple with two small children walked passed them.

“So we should discuss some things.  We are employer and employee now so perhaps we should set up some boundaries. This is a professional relationship. I just want to set these expectations down now. Alright?”  Her dark eyes lifted to his face, she had to squint to keep the sun out of her eyes. What happened between them couldn’t happen again.  “I have a room for you, I have to clear out some space, I wasn’t prepared so I apologize for that.” Maybe she should have set things up. It almost felt like she was bringing a pet home and hadn’t properly set up for it. Only in this case, he wasn’t a pet but a Blood male that required a lot more. “Is there anything you like to eat in particular? Maybe I can have Masika bring it home, oh, I have to introduce you to her, we didn’t get a chance to…” and then she was bringing that night up again while rattling off what needed to be done. Fiddling with her hands she turned to continue walking along side him while she rolled over her thoughts.

Rolling her shoulders back she smiled bashfully at him. “I have some patients to see today. Luckily it’s a one stop shop sort of deal and then I have the rest of the day to get things organized I guess if there is anything you need to pick up.  Have you ever been to the Barracks?” She asked the latter rather abruptly. It was a single street name for the more impoverished ghetto on the east side of the city of Kemet. Sitting just at the border the Barracks were navigated by unpaved, dusty roads and home to beggars, and ex slaves. By day the area was dangerous enough, but by night it was near suicide to walk the streets alone. Luckily or maybe unluckily enough, the day was young. “I have a friend I need to see there.”

Reassured that her those already in a vulnerable position who came seeking her assistance would not find themselves further discouraged to ask for aid, Ema nodded at Prince Anansi’s explanation. It was not his bulk but his height which made him imposing. Even now standing next to him was a strange sensation, especially considering what had transpired just a few nights before, and how easily he had allowed himself to be scaled.  Masking her thoughts with a pleasant smile she politely said her goodbye to Daud and acknowledged the rest of the family as they left the offices.

“I meant more like a bed, clothes, blankets, toiletries, a good book?” How could he have nothing with him if he was set to live in a different space. “You did say you had your own place? You don’t just jump from couch to couch on…” she quoted with her fingers “assignments?” Yes, she was teasing him which made her realize just how playful that could be taken.  Ema had put a lot of thought into what it meant to hire Corvo Anansi as her escort and how he might perceive it.  It wasn’t until she considered that taking a guardian, even one she already knew and had gained a rapport with was just a logical step did she stop considering what everyone else would think. The truth was, Corvo was the only choice she had give herself. That had to count for something.

That didn’t however mean that she had hired him to share her bed.  Keeping their interactions as professional as they could would make either party more comfortable. She would not have to concern herself with what he did on his off hours and he…well he would not have to deal with her baggage.  The longer she could carry that on her own the better. Of course the risk of having him around all day every day was that he was likely to notice when some of the contents spilled out. He had agreed, but a little too fast, which earned him a raised brow and a little roll of her eyes. Try as she may a smirk still managed to peek at the corner of her mouth. Professional.  Then almost immediately he reminded her of how familiar he had become with her home. “I have a spare room. Its my knitting room, but you can stretch out in there.”  They were one door down, but a wall was enough of a barrier to keep him from stretching out too much. “I figured you just curled up into a ball at night and unwound come morning.  Like a snake.” Her finger pointed down with a twirl. “Yes I think that would be nice. Sika doesn’t trust many people, so Im hoping that she takes to you and to all of this.” She wouldn’t. Not easily, but here was hoping.

Ema conjured a ticket from her cabinet and tore the tiny piece of paper in half. They had stopped a block down the street, giving him enough time to process what she had just said. Turning her head she checked out both sides of the street for the coach she had ordered. The Crafted ticket would call the coachman to their location, however, they had made it abundantly clear that she would have to walk the moment they reached the outer edges of the Barracks. She wouldn’t be able to pay them enough to enter.  They seemed to have about the same outlook of the notorious street as Corvo did. ”I have many friends, both in Court and in the Barracks yes.”  She smirked at him. The confusion on his face amused her somehow. “I was going to go anyways, aren’t you glad you decided to start today?” Kontar would have been burning holes into her if he would have learned she intended on going to such a dangerous place period. The fact that she was accompanied would not have made it less hot. “I’ve been there many times actually. Though not in the last month. These patients can get rowdy. I will follow your instruction. Promise.”

The sound of hooves clapping against the paved stones drew her attention back to the street. The doors opened before them. “Lady, Prince. Ticket?”  Ema reached up, lifting herself onto her toes to the elderly man who held the rains. He took the ticket and stuffed it in his pocket. “Now, we go see them.”  Stepping into the small cabin she sat. They had enough room to sit directly in front of one another or side by side, but that would be a much tighter fit.  Once he was inside, Ema looked out the window, tucking a strand of hair behind her ear. The sun light streaming in felt warm against her neck and shoulder.  They jostled for just a moment before going on their way.  Glancing back to him she smiled softly, then down to her hands before back up to him. “Be honest Prince Anansi, Did you expect me?”

Yes, she had teased him, but not in the usual flirtatious flavor he enjoyed for her to sample.  Corvo still managed to latch on to that and feed on each line. She was reminded how fluidly their conversation had flowed. Ema was usually the quiet one, her thoughts could be a bit sarcastic at times, but with Corvo it was easy to allow that playful side to see some light. He had no issue displaying it himself, which is why it had been so easy to speak to him.  A couple days and a long night later and she was glad to find that the awkwardness was minimal. In fact it was a relief that it was.  The more he described his large support group the more she began to believe that his ‘place’ was anywhere his family resided. There were just too many cousins and sisters ready to lend a helping hand.

Must have been nice.

Ema blinked, opening her mouth and closing it again. She wanted to scold him for bringing up the couch or even insinuating something more than comfort and relaxation had exceeded its purpose, but she didn't. Not trusting anything that would come out of her mouth as it would probably wind up with her just being embarrassed, she fit him with a withered look and shook her head and convinced herself it was the best course of action to keep things on a professional level.

The soft, thoughtful smile that fit her so easily did not fade, even as he brushed off her jokes she described her sister.”She is just, picky about what company she keeps. You will have to get used to her.“ Masika had always been strong willed and territorial, so it was still bewildering how only one of the twins had been graced by Mother Night’s favor with Jewels.  Corvo was not the problem, nor was Sika, he would just need to learn to navigate her moods, which meant mostly staying out of her way. Of course she wasn't about to give him that warning, no it was better he stuck to being his naturally charming self and hopefully Masika wouldn't send him screaming into the hills.

As she suspected he was taken aback by her choice to visit the dangerous ghetto streets of the Barracks.  Had she mentioned it in front of the elder Prince Anansi she might have been granted an entire entourage for the day, which wouldn't have suited her purposes for visiting.  “Very.”  she glanced at him for recognition, that was the right answer after all. “My name and my Caste has awarded me certain privileges. I’ve taken advantage of them many times.”  The touch was startling, though she did not flinch as his fingers grazed her skin, tickling the small hairs behind her neck.  Those were strong hands capable of being both tender and firm.  Ema hesitated to brush it off but was too taken by the outpouring of his concern. That same hand slipped away and easily found hers, grasping it in a warm squeeze. Glancing up at him she exhaled, lips stretching  into a soft smile before springing back into place. His genuine bearing for her safety was exactly the reason she had chosen to hire him in the first place and not, as she convinced herself, his gentle affection.

Settled in the carriage  she vanished her half of the ticket and looked up to find him studying her with a slightly smug smile. She listened and nodded her head twice, glancing out the window and squinting at the afternoon light when his gaze became a little too much for her to handle without grinning. “Id hope so, we don't do tabs at the clinic, but for you I think we would have to make an exception.”  He would have come to see her again. The other two Healer’s and apprentices, headed by Lady Ranma, had practically started laying bets. Ema ignored their good natured taunts, but once the idea was planted in her head, she considered it might have some merit.  Looking at him again, her shy smile returned though he would get the impression she approved of his answer.

“I do owe you a debt of thanks for that...and...” Licking her bottom lip, she plucked it between her teeth. The carriage rocked slightly as the streets shifted from well kept to more neglected areas. “I did not mention it around your father, but those men returned.  I have seen them a hand full of times since we last saw one another. Though for the last day or so I have only spotted one. Lady Ranma allowed me the service of her guards, but it felt as though I was jeopardizing her safety for my own.”  Fingers idly pinched the soft fabric of her skirt.

“I've seen them again the following morning as we left the temple on two different sides of the street and then yesterday afternoon directly across from the clinic. I'm not sure who they are yet, but Lady Shimi said she approached a man fitting the second one’s description within the clinic itself while I was away. I don't know what to make of it. I just know, I felt safer with you there. Before that day I really didn't put much consideration into my own personal safety, because of those privileges we spoke about. I guess that couldn't last forever.” Scratching her thumb nails together, she glanced out the window again as the city zipped by. Being watched made her uneasy in a way she had never experienced before. She was a nervous person but not a paranoid one so any piece of mind was a relief. “I'm glad you were still available.”

He was right. Her name and the rarity of her Caste was not enough to keep her safe any longer. Nailah was a high profile candidate for ransom and while she was untouchable, Ema and her sisters were not. Even Theoris retained escorts and her Red Moon House was a neutral zone for all intents and purposes.  Had Corvo not been there the first night those men approached her, she wasn’t sure what she would have done.  A part of her knew she would have considered, through naivety that they indeed had an injured friend and gone to lend aid, no matter how exhausted she had been.  Corvo was a good addition in her life, a stop gap for her most basic impulses.

Some of them.

“Oh, I think I expect the right amount. You forget I can feel old wounds when I touched you.” And had she touched him. “While I was healing you.” She quickly added. There it was the embarrassment, her tried and true friend.  Glad for the change in topic, even if it was one that made her nervous, she nodded softly. It was difficult to admit she felt uncomfortable doing everyday things, like walking to the store or going to temple without the threat of being kidnapped. Corvo didn’t have to explain the intent of these men, already her mind had cycled through every horrifying prospect. She didn’t want to feel trepidation every time she left the clinic, which tainted its relative safety when Corvo was not there. Honestly, it made her angry to feel like she had to hide. Having to do so internally with her emotions was enough, she had to take back some control and that was where he had come in.  The corners of his lips twisted into a frown, his eyes hardening in a similar fashion as when he had addressed the two men waiting outside of her home. Only this time it felt heavier. Annoyance filled the reservoir of his scent. “Those were the only times. Twice now. Yesterday I almost crossed the street and confronted the one you spoke with. We made eye contact, I needed him to know that I saw him. Lady Ranma’s guard would not allow me to approach him so he went instead. The man walked off.” Cowards. Lady Ranma had called them scavengers. It fit.

“I'm sure you say that to all the pretty Healers.” She smiled gently, she found she wanted to believe that he would have dropped what he was doing in order to be available for her. Ema watched him for a long moment, studying his gaze. They had locked eyes like this once before, only they had been far more tangled up in one another. It was easy to look at him and forget whatever it was she was thinking about.  “Mmm, you’ll see. I have to make sure you won't try and stop me.”  She grinned at him.  They were going to the Barracks, that should have been enough warning. If she were to tell him they were going into a pickpocket den he might have asked the carriage to turn around.

It took several minutes, but the coach came to a stop just outside of the side streets.  Some transport companies refused to enter the ghetto, citing safety concerns. Ema disembarked and led the way at a brisk pace toward the far end of the street.  He would know that meeting anyone’s eye was an invitation for trouble. For the Healer’s part, she looked strangely at ease. When she was recognized, the people would simply resume what they were doing, be it sitting on rickety porches or playing games on the street.

“Vanish anything you want to keep.” She advised. “The natives will not hesitate to take what is not theirs when we arrive.” She whispered to him.  The houses in this side of Kemet were in terrible disrepair. Thatch roofs were patched with a strange assortment of materials from wood, metal and mud, turning each structure into some warped beast of assorted parts.  There were once paved roads, now broken and worn leaving wide patches in the cobblestones like a mouth with shattered teeth.  There was not an object or person without some sort of sand or soot on them.  Ema turned into an alley where the road was better preserved. Tall buildings pressed together leaving a narrow path of doorways, windows, and hanging clotheslines. Fabric billowed in the sun. A woman pulled on the line from an east window, the hinge creaking loudly in protest as she collected some shirts.

Ema knocked on a red door and it took only a second before a pair of eyes peered from around its lower half. It swung open and the child raced toward a back room.  Stepping inide they found themselves in a small, open courtyard of terracotta brick.  Leading him toward the back, they slipped through the same door the boy had raced through. A Rose Jeweled woman of advanced age sat in a rocking chair just behind another open door leading to a set of bedrooms. She fanned herself with a palm frond.  In her early 70’s she reminded Ema of a very severe grandmother which was pretty accurate.  Indicating Corvo should hang back, she approached the woman with a smile. “Lady Obsenti, I hope the day finds you well. I am here to see Rakel.” Ema’s hands folded before her. “Did you bring anything for me? Who's the beanstalk?” The old woman asked, her voice was low and raspy from years of smoking a pipe. By the ash mounded on a nearby plate, she had not relinquished the habit.  Ema conjured a small bag of coins which was plucked up and pocketed by the woman before she could fully extend. “This is my escort, Prince Anansi.”  She responded briskly. “Escort huh? You’ll need to feed him.”  The woman waved a hand back to indicate Ema should enter. The Healer smirked and motioned for Corvo to follow.

What was to be a set of rooms was merely a great room divided by cots and curtains. The arrangement was easy to follow, divided by the age of the children.  At the far end were the teenagers and toward the front were the younger kids. A little girl played with some straw dolls on the ground. “Lady Obsenti owns these kids. She’s collected them from the streets and the slave markets when they have been separated from their parents. They live here now. She protects them from the barracks.” She also made a very fine wage through their exploitation, but they were fed, educated and safe. There were worse alternatives. Ema looked to the little girl and smiled. “Amani, where is Rakel?”  The girl looked up, her brown curls bouncing against her shoulder and pointed toward the left side. “Bye Lady Emah!” she wiggled her doll at her.

Rakel sat in his cot looking over a book of drawings. His feet were bare, and dry. A child of no more than eight, he had a shaved head and was very skinny. His skin was dark and rich, his eyes the color of dark coffee. When he looked up and saw her he smiled brightly and set his papers down. Pushing off the cot he stood. Corvo would see the issue. The child’s hips were askew, far higher on the right side than the left which shortened his legs. He walked with a clumsy gate as he approached and wrapped his arms around Ema’s hips in a hug. Once that was concluded he stepped back, raised his hands and Ema clapped it with her own. followed by a fist bump.“Hi.”  He looked to Corvo and smiled so genuinely and innocently. The Blood child made his way back to the cot with a grimace and sat. “Hi to you Rakel. This is Corvo.”

“He is tall.”

“He gets that a lot.”

“Do you hit your head a lot?”  he asked Corvo, completely oblivious to protocol or the appropriateness of the answer. Ema moved to join him as the two spoke, and knelt before him. “I’ve heard you injured your foot again. “ The threads of her Craft were already at work, seeping into his skin. The bottom of his left foot was badly scraped and swollen. “Yeah, I was running and there was some glass on the road and we lost our ball.”  He looked back up to Corvo. “Is it hard for you to find shoes?”  he asked him casually again. Ema chuckled as she worked. “Is he your husband?”  He asked suddenly and frowned with a bit of jealousy before looking at Corvo again. “Im going to marry Lady Ema one day. Can you reach up and touch the street lanterns? I almost did once, but I had to jump and I cant jump that far up anymore. Do you want to see my book?”  He rattled off questions as quickly as they came into his mind.

Some distance from home and the clinic, it still gave her some comfort to know that the Anansi Guardians were on top of things. This was a good investment, she told herself though she didn’t let herself dwell on why she had chosen this particular Escort.  The fact of the matter was that they took the contract very seriously and she had to admit she was impressed at how quickly they put everything into motion.  The threads must have been flying on the carriage ride over to the barracks.

For the first time in several days, she would be able to go home and not wonder if someone would be kicking down their door. Masika would be safe and she would be able to sleep.

“Shh.”  She scolded him quickly in a whisper. “Children talk, but…yes.  They have beds, food in their bellies and are educated. It's not ideal but Ive seen worse. ”  Lady Obsenti used the children but she was the lesser of two evils. Actually no, she was the best case scenario for many of the children who stayed within the barracks. Many of which were landen. At least Blood children had a chance to be picked up by a court or adopted into families. Who would want a bunch of potentially powerful Blood running around unregulated and worse, uneducated? The results could be disastrous.   She had taken note that Corvo had armed himself and ignored it for now. It was better that he had it on hand and didnt need it.  Ema was safe within this house, the children were fond of her and despite Lady Obscenti’s age, she was a force to be reckoned with, which meant the neighborhood paid her the respect she deserved. Considering she had raised many of them in her time, no one dared cross a line into her territory.

Amani looked up from her doll to watch the impossibly tall Prince illustrate how to use the toy. A child her age would have immediately reached for it, but unlike them, Amani knew how showing interest in an item meant it could only be snatched away quicker. There was always a price for nice things, so it startled her to see it laid on her lap. Her smile could have lit up the room brighter than Witchfire.  “Thank you!”  she called out after him, picking up the cup and flicking it up so the ball came close to the edge but not quite in. 

When he turned to look at Rehema she was studying him thoughtfully, a smile hanging shyly off the corners of her lips.

Rakel had always been an inquisitive boy. He never took anything at face value. It was a good trait to have. Questioning everything he was told would keep him alive. Ema looked at his feet while he distracted himself with Corvo. He did not note the frown that marred her peaceful expression as her craft wove through his bones and muscles. The deformity would need to be corrected and soon, but doing so in one sitting would cause him so much pain. As he grew, it would only worsen.  “I'm sorry for your Mother.”  Rakel said solemnly, to which Ema muttered his name in a scolding tone. “He is very tall, it must have hurt!” He defended himself if by means of explanation.

“Im not allowed to use Craft here. Mamma Obsenti doesn’t like it.” He explained. Clearly and audibly, then lowered his voice, his fingers wiggling like  Corvo’s “Most of the time.” Ema smirked, and produced some moist bandages, cleaning off the boy’s feet. “No, Im learning to read. I drew pictures in it though, it helps me, see the words…vision..”

“Visualize.”  she offered, absently, to which Rakel nodded. “Look.” He opened the book and showed it to Corvo, even kneeling the boy had to lift it up so he could see clearly. The pages were yellow and worn, but clearly printed. A child’s atlas, the book opened to several maps of territories within Terrielle and regional facts, including what kinds of animals one could find, foods, agriculture and points of interest. “That is Raej and we are here. I want to write a book, but I have to learn to read first, but when I do I will go to these places and write about what I see. ” He pointed to a spot on the map that was nearly faded, his fingers having run through the pages several times. In the margins were crude drawings of familiar lizards, cats and snakes.  “I was born small, but one day Ema will help me be tall.”  Rehema’s smile thinned as she rocked back on her heel next to Corvo and let her smile blossom reassuringly.

“Now Rakel, this was more than glass. Where are your shoes?”  The boy hesitantly pulled his attention from Corvo, looked at her then returned his gaze to the book like a nervous child would. “I lost em.”

“Rakel.” Her voice was soft, her hands resting on the top of his foot. “Did someone take your shoes?” His head shook, chin dipping closer to his chest. “Rakel?”  she asked again, tilting her head and receiving only silence. Ema looked to Corvo, the answer was clear. “Well Ive come with something new for you.”  Ema conjured a small box and set it on the floor as well as a small needle. “But I'm going to need a drop of blood. It won't hurt, I promise.”  Rakel looked skeptical but his trust for the Healer outweighed his fear. Taking his hand she gently pricked him, using her Craft to numb the pain. A tiny pearl of blood hung at the end of the needle. Opening the box she removed a pair of simple leather sandals. The soles were thick and brown. The drop of blood left a tiny stain on the sole which expanded and then disappeared.

The magic-infused sandals grew dormant once more as she carefully slipped them onto his feet.  The boy rocked his feet back and forth as if paddling over water. “Ill only lose them again.” He sighed gently, torn between keeping them only to have them taken again. “What if I told you these shoes are just for you? They will only fit your feet, no matter how much you grow. If anyone takes them they will be very uncomfortable, and you'll be able to find them.”  She smiled, feeling a little clever. It was an expensive item that looked utterly worn and old, but worth it. The shoes would adjust Rakel’s gait as well, at least until Lady Obscenti relinquished the boy.

Rakel shifted his feet, getting a feel for the sandals. She got the impression he didn’t feel worthy of them. “It’s payment for all those beautiful drawings you’ve given me, and the one you will do for Corvo here.”  Rakel straightened she looked up at the male. “Do you actually want that?”  he asked, unsure if it was a fair deal. “If I lose them, will…will you get them for me?”  Ema looked to Corvo, curious of the response.

Rakel was thoroughly pleased by Corvo’s appreciation of his work. He smiled, brighter and longer than Rehema had witnessed in some time. She had always had the impression that his boyhood crush made him overly aware of what he was saying and that fear of embarrassing himself made him a bit less forthcoming on matters of importance. He wasn’t comfortable telling her that the older boys had stolen his shoes, or even that he might have lost them in a fixed game. Ema wanted honesty and names, but Rakel was young and even so, he understood that there was a code that the young ones lived by. No one tattled, they handled their issues on their own if they wanted to survive.

The chances were stacked against a boy like Rakel. He was an easy target for the cruelty of other children.  Corvo complimented her ability and for a moment she wondered if only to herself how much she could actually do for Rakel in this place. He needed to have his deformity healed and it would take time and therapy.  It was not something she could fix quickly with Craft.  Rakel put so much faith in her, and she didn’t want to let them down.

Ema stood, dusting off her hands as the boy swung his feet from the edge of the cot, enjoying the weight of the sandals at his feet. They were expensive, but worth the joy and support that they could offer him. His gait would be corrected and they would self adjust to the length of his uneven legs, at least until his hips could be aligned.

A movement to her left caught her attention. Amani was focused on the paddle toy, flipping the ball into the air over and over only so the string could pull it back down. She had nearly made it into the basket. The young girl smiled and without paying less attention to her new gift, cocked her head to one side motioning toward the back room. She did it two more times, each one more exaggerated before Ema finally understood.  Corvo agreed to get the shoes back if Rakel needed them, which made her smile.

However, he wasn’t her target.

“Excuse me a moment. Im going to make sure the rest of the kids are doing alright. Rakel, can you show Corvo the drawing you made of me?” She smiled, distracting the boy and perhaps even the man. “The resemblance is uncanny.”  It wasn’t, it was quite horrifying, but she knew he would get a kick out of it.

Ema moved toward the back room and peered around the ratty curtain that sectioned off the older kids from the younger ones.  Four boys ranging in ages from twelve to sixteen crouched over some dice. There were small piles of toys, items and even a low mark here and there between them. A boy by the name of Jax, only fourteen was usually the ring leader. He was Blood tanned skin and charming. “Hello there.”  She announced herself, causing the youngest to snatch up the dice and pull it behind his back. Jax slapped his arm playfully once he realized who it was. “Its just Lady Rehema.” The implication was that she didn’t care.  The Healer had no interest in gambling or ratting out the kids if they wanted to have any fun. “Good day Lady Rehema.” They all grew quiet in that awkward way they did until an adult decided enough was enough and simply left.

Ema didn’t. She stepped inside, folding her hands before her. “How is your head Jax? And your hand Elonzoi?”  She asked looking between the two boys respectively.  They had been caught a month ago stealing from a prepared merchant and received a flogging for it. Elonz nearly lost his finger and Jax suffered a terrible concussion that had him vomiting stew for a day before Lady Obsenti had summoned her. “Much better.”  They said in unison which made Ema smile. “Thank you. “ Elonz added and the boys nodded.

“Good, Im glad to hear you are all well. Ill leave you to your game.”

“Bye Lady Rehema.” One said, another boy chuckled, teasing him.

“Oh, but before I forget. Ive been here how many times do you think in the last year?” she asked looking between them. “For personal issues as well as head bumps and broken hands?”  Several times was the answer. She had relieved their pain and kept some rather embarrassing secrets. The kind prepubescent boys did not want getting around. They weren’t sure where she was going with it. “A few.” “A lot”, were the answers. She just wanted to remind them of the fact anyways. “I noticed Rakel misplaced his shoes again. This has happened a few times, so I am hoping that as his foster brothers you could keep an eye out for them, and for him? Make sure nothing happens to his new pair. He is little and he needs to be protected.”  One of the boy’s smirked faintly and nodded innocently, but Jax had enough wisdom to know that wasn’t the end of it. “You see, I keep buying those shoes out of my own pockets, and if they come up missing again, I will have to charge Lady Obscenti each time I come. That includes for anything, rashes, itches, cuts, even private stuff. Old and new. “  The smiles were all but wiped from each of their faces. Airing dirty laundry within earshot of other children was the biggest threat to teenage boys. “Can I count on you all?” she asked.

They nodded. Of course, they did. Suddenly their little game wasn’t the only thing they were hiding. “Wonderful, thank you all. Ill see you soon.”

With that she returned to Corvo and Rakel feeling a little bad, but at the same time, vindicated. 

“We should be going, but I will see you soon sweet one.”