text: [Themes: fantasy, anti-hero, serious]
  
  Year 30
  
  None of your dealings with gangs has ever been positive which is why its odd that you inadvertently became looked up to one.
  
  Granted it's made up of a bunch of snot nosed teenagers, but they've been trying to emulate you for years since they were snot nosed kids.
  
  The Black Hooks have been unofficially looking to you for guidance ever since you easily caught a couple of them trying to pick your pocket a couple years ago and scolded them for their sloppy technique. Some of them seem to have potential, others just seem like they're just in it to cause trouble and be rebellious. Their "leader" Marco talks a big game and even seems to resent the fact that so many in his gang speak positively of you, but in the scheme of things, he seems like he wants to be like you on some level.
  
  Still, as teenagers are want to do, they don't always listen very well. You certainly didn't.
  
  "Marco, I know you and your little friends are really proud about your recent string of break ins, but you lot still have a lot to learn about stealth. I've told you the story about the Bloody Talons haven't I?" you remark.
  "Yes! A million times!" Marco says exasperatedly.
  "And you'll hear it a million more until you fuckers get it right or you're going to end up just like the Bloody Talons! More importantly, you're making shit unnecessarily more difficult for the rest of us trying to make a living out here. The more reckless you are, the more the Jicol Watch starts actually cracking down on everyone. We don't need that shit. We got it good here thanks to Jicol tending to worry more about pirates than us land based criminals."
  "I think I'd rather be a pirate."
  "Pfft, no you wouldn't. You like the IDEA of being a pirate because you hear all about their glorious tales of raping and pillaging whenever they dock here. Trust me, I've dealt with enough pirates for them to tell me some of their stories to know that that life isn't all that glamorous. Most of the time it's a lot of waiting around on a ship fighting off scurvy and other crew members trying to do harm to your fucking asshole by shoving a dick it in. You want to get fucked in the ass?"
  "Um, no?"
  "You didn't sound so sure about that. Because if that's what you want, I'm pretty sure there are a lot of pirate captains that would like a cabin boy like you."
  "No! Fuck no."
  "Alright then. In any case, stop immediately breaking windows when you're struggling with a lock. Locks are like women and sometimes you gotta take a little time with them before they open up and give you the goods. It's a pain in the ass, but most of the time it's worth it and you'll feel a better sense of accomplishment. Understand?"
  "Yeah, I suppose so."
  "So what are you trying to sell this time?"
  
  After doing a little bartering and taking advantage of Marco's lack of knowledge of the value of his stolen goods, you bid him and his buddies goodbye and remind him to remember what you said.
  
  As you make your way back to your humble home, halfway there you get the sense that you're being followed and watched. It isn't he Black Hook either.
  
  "Alright, you lot might as well come out, unless you intend on shooting me from the shadows that you're hiding in."
  
  A single older man steps out from said shadows.
  
  "Nope, just me." He says.
  "Who are you?" you ask.
  "Oh I go by the same name I have for years now. Sneaks. Though apparently not sneaky enough seeing as you sensed me. Such is the failing of once superior skills with getting old."
  "You won't be getting too much older if you keeping following me around, now what do you want?"
  "No need for hostility friend, though I suppose it would have been better to just approach you directly. Honestly, I've known about you for a year or so now, but seeing as I do my own fencing like most others like myself around here, never really needed to speak with you before."
  "Oh? So do you have something then?"
  "Oh no. It's not that. It's more of a concern that...well let's just say the underworld community has."
  "Underworld community? First I'm hearing of an organized gang here."
  "That's because there isn't one and we're all hoping it stays that way. Nothing good comes from monolithic organizations. I should know I had to directly fight the Ebony Claw Syndicate back in Holgard and ultimately lost."
  "Well you'll get no argument from me. I've never been part of a gang and never had any positive experiences with them."
  "Interesting. Then one wonders why you're actively encouraging and acting as a mentor of sorts to one."
  
  You nearly chuckle at what Sneaks is getting at.
  
  "The Black Hooks? I mean yeah I guess they're a gang, but they're hardly the Ebony Claw Syndicate. They're mostly a bunch of dumb teenagers." You say.
  "Well I'm sure the Syndicate started as a bunch of dumb teenagers too, until someone molded and lead them to be a powerful organization." Sneaks replies.
  "I am NOT the leader of the Black Hooks nor do I have any desire to be. That dubious honor belongs to their mildly more intelligent member, Marco. I can't help it if some of them look to me for tips and shit. If anything, my guidance as you call it, is making things better for the rest of us. I just told them to knock it off with their smash and grab routines and other shit that brings the heat down on everyone."
  "Yes, I can see that would be a good thing, however I don't think you're looking at the greater picture. You are correct in that they're mostly dumb teenagers and their actions draw more attention. However, I also imagine that they wouldn't last very long. Sooner, rather than later, the Jicol Watch would wipe out most of them and things would be harder for the rest of us for awhile, but eventually the status quo would return since Jicol has always been more concerned with a potential pirate attack rather than anything else."
  "Your point?"
  "My point is, YOU are teaching them to be better criminals. Basically, more of them are going to survive and even thrive because of you. Not only does this mean more competition for all of us, it also means the Black Hooks are likely to survive as a gang. This organization is going to eventually realize that they outnumber the independent competition and take steps to eliminate said competition, or force them to join. Since some of us aren't likely to go quietly, some of the independents are going to form their OWN gang for protection and before you know it, there's a war going on. As I said, I've read that tale before and it didn't end well."
  "So you're telling me who I can or can't associate with?"
  "Look, I'm not saying to not continue to do whatever business you have with them. I wouldn't dream of doing something like that. Anyway I said my piece. Do what you want obviously. I'm just suggesting that helping them as much as you have been, might not be in any of our best interests in the long run."
  "Duly noted."
  
  With those words, Sneaks nods and takes his leave. You have to admit, he does have somewhat of a point, but on the other hand some of it sounded like a threat with that last bit.
  
  You continue on your way home and then you see a figure near it. The figure isn't even hiding. They're just casually sitting on your front step. Seems you're popular today.
  
  As you approach a little cautiously, the notice the figure is female and a little furry animal pop out from around her then...
  
  "Annah?" you call out.
  "I was wondering when you'd get home. I would have let myself in, but who knows what traps you've rigged and I'm not quite as nimble anymore. Besides, wouldn't be polite right?" Annah replies.
  "Glad to see you've at last respected my boundaries. Not just for me, but for yourself. That door doesn't even lead inside, come on, I'll take you the real way."
  "Oh, a secret way in. Nice, but aren't you concerned about me knowing?"
  "Not at this point. Besides, I don't keep anything of actual value in here anyway."
  "Of course you don't."
  
  After leading Annah in the real way to your home (with Checkers slowly following behind), she asks you how you've been and what you've been up to. You give a brief answer that you've been doing better since the last time you saw her (physically and mentally) and how it's mostly been back to the standard burglary for you along with some fencing for the Black Hooks.
  
  "Black Hooks huh? They Jicol's version of the Talons?" Annah asks.
  "They wish. It's mostly a bunch of teenagers being wild. Though I've been mildly trying to direct them away from what led to the Talons' demise in Klyton." You say.
  "That's rather altruistic of you."
  "It's more like covering my own ass in the long run so Jicol doesn't turn into another Klyton. However, someone recently told me that I should just let these kids twist in the wind and get themselves killed by the law since it gets rid of a potential greater threat in the future, like the Black Hooks actually becoming competent and powerful united force."
  "I can see a logic in both approaches actually. So what were you planning to do?"
  "Nothing. I'm going to continue to go about my life and if anyone gets in my face about what I'm doing, I'll deal with it then."
  "Sounds like you. Sooo...the Black Hooks the only gang in the city?"
  "If you can call them that. Yeah. Everyone else is more or less independent though I'm sure a few work together at times. Nobody really has any turf though as far as places being off limits to others. Not even the Black Hooks are like that, though they do have a location where they all hang out that they probably consider their own."
  "Would you say there is a strong disregard for authority here in the underworld community?"
  "Isn't there always?"
  "Well yes, but I meant it sounds like other than the Black Hooks, nobody is really organized and probably would resist against such a thing."
  "Annah, this is an odd line of questioning you're going for...out with it."
  
  Annah looks down a bit, before looking at you again. You have to say, you still aren't used to that eye patch she has.
  
  "Promise you won't get mad?" Annah asks.
  "Well that doesn't sound good. (Sigh) Fine. I promise I'll TRY not to get mad." You reply.
  "Okay. Well, since we last saw each other, I've been in Holgard and I've sort of had dealings with the Ebony Claw Syndicate."
  "Oh for..."
  "No, no, it's okay. I'm actually on good terms with them now. Well at least the chapter in Holgard. Apparently the head there Rook. Isn't too pleased with some of the leadership decisions in the Delantium Kingdom and he's been making a few moves of his own. To cut a long story short, I've been working with the Syndicate."
  "You joined the fucking Syndicate?!"
  "No! I'm more like a hired gun. Literally, most of the time. I...uh...accept a lot of contracts on people."
  "...Wow. Okay then. Still, I would have thought the Syndicate would have had people like that on their payroll."
  "Eh, that's sort of the problem with the Holgard chapter. It doesn't get much support from the top. It's almost seen as more of a money-making outpost. Enough to keep a presence in, but not important enough to put extra manpower into. This might not be a problem if Holgard didn't suffer shit like civil rebellions and religious faction fights every five years or so. As a result the Syndicate chapter in Holgard has had to make more use of independents than they would like. Though they tend to REALLY want you to join. I've gotten the sales pitch several times. Fortunately I'm good enough at what I do that I've been able to decline and still remain unaligned."
  "Seems like a dangerous game you're playing Annah. I mean this is the same organization that...well did THAT to you."
  "Same organization, but different people and different circumstances. Besides, I'm not trying to rip them off this time. I'm legitimately doing work for them, which is why I'm here actually."
  
  Annah goes into an explanation that the head of the Syndicate chapter in Holgard, Rook is looking to expand his own power base here on Jicol. Since Annah has done such good work for him in the past he's sent her here to scout the place rather than sending his own people.
  
  She says that her main job is to make a note of all the major players in the city. She says that when she learned you were living here, she figured she could save some of the legwork by directly speaking to you about it.
  
  "So...what then? Is the Syndicate just going to take this entire city over?" you ask.
  "Well that's the plan, unless it turns out to be too much trouble, but based on even what little you've told me and what little I've seen, this place seems pretty ripe for a Syndicate takeover. Or at least Rook's takeover." Annah says briefly petting Checkers who is asleep by her feet.
  "There's nothing I can do to stop this?"
  "Well no, not really. The Syndicate is really looking to branch out here. Nothing that can be done about that unless you're going to try to unite everyone against them, but it would be pretty stupid to try that. The Syndicate pretty much always gets what they want. I should know."
  "It still surprises me that you'd be working for them, given what happened. You never did tell me exactly."
  "Okay. I get what you mean. But shit happened and I wound up in bed with the Syndicate again. Fortunately it's been in my favor this time. It's sort of an amusing tale, maybe I'll tell you about it when I'm not currently so busy." Annah replies.
  "Still never told me about how you managed to get a room in the Klyton university dorms either."
  "Heh. Well I'll tell you that story too. I want to tell you everything. I mean...shit...I still miss you, y'know? When I found out you lived here I was looking forward to seeing you again. Last time we parted company you said we'd meet again as we seem to be destined to always do."
  "Yeah I remember. Just thought it might be under less complicated circumstances this time."
  "I don't think that's how our relationship goes."
  "Obviously not."
  
  Annah takes a deep breath and continues.
  
  "The Syndicate is coming, but it probably won't be immediately. In the meantime, I can speak positively about you when I get back to Holgard and you could probably become an associate much like I am. I could even relocate here while we prepare this place and we could work on tasks together like in the old days. Lots of coin to be made and we both know how much you like that." Annah says.
  
  While you wouldn't mind such a thing under normal circumstances, you really aren't keen on Annah's Syndicate involvement.
  
  > talk Annah out of this
  Annah might think she has a handle on things and maybe she does, but you need to try to talk her out of getting in too deep with the Syndicate again.
  
  But you also think that maybe starting with a lecture might not be the way to go about it, so you start with helping her a little.
  
  You give a rundown on every underworld contact you have of relative importance, along with the strength and numbers of the Black Hooks. You then also give Annah an approximate guess on the strength of the Jicol Watch and how effective they are.
  
  "Would you say they're susceptible to working with the Syndicate? The Holgard Watch has never been too much of a problem in that regard." Annah says.
  "Well, the Jicol Watch isn't adverse to a bribe here and there, but the Mayor of Jicol tends to pay them well enough for them to not to make a habit of it." You say.
  "Mayor of Jicol? Anything like the Governor of Hessla?"
  "He's ten times more reclusive. Apparently most haven't seen him in decades. About the only descriptions that exist are that the Mayor is male and human, but who knows? In any case, while this place is no stranger to corruption, it still adheres to law and order fairly strongly. Not Klyton level, but that's probably due to more emphasis on their fleet rather than land force which is thankfully smaller."
  "I see. Anything else?"
  "Not really. So...you going to go assassinate them all now?"
  "Heh. Well, based on everything you've told me, doesn't seem like I need to bother. I suppose I could anyway. You said you spoke to someone called Sneaks that used to belong to the Thieves Guild in Holgard recently? I bet Rook would want to someone like that taken care of. Maybe the leader of the Black Hooks as well just to keep that group from getting too organized."
  
  You just sort of stare at Annah for a moment and exhale a bit while briefly rubbing your hand over your chin. This doesn't go unnoticed.
  
  "What? Is there some other potential obstacle you haven't mentioned?" Annah asks.
  "No. I saw you in action three years ago remember? I have no doubt you've only gotten more dangerous since then and are more than a match for anyone here." You answer.
  "But?"
  "But, you told me to think about working with you on this Syndicate business and I truly do not see a good ending for us that way if we stick with them and the longer we do it, the harder it's going to be to get out. I personally don't want to associate with them. The Black Hooks are about the most I'm going to tolerate for reasons I've mentioned. You say you aren't formally connected with the Syndicate and that's good, because I think after you do this last job for them, you REALLY need to break ALL ties with them. Things might be going good now, but they might not always be."
  "You could say that about anything."
  "Yeah I could, but I'm talking about this. Look, you say this Rook fellow isn't happy with the rest of the Syndicate leadership and he's trying to build a power base here. This sounds like it's the prelude to a big internal power struggle, which is likely to escalate very quickly. Now I don't pretend to know as much about the Syndicate as you do, but from what I gather, any threat to the leadership is going to be met with an extreme use of force to ALL involved. Best thing to do when that happens is to be as far away from the conflict as possible."
  
  Your words about a potential violent power struggle have weight and she looks as if she didn't really think about that before.
  
  "Hm. You might have a point about that. I'm going to have to think on that." Annah says.
  "Annah, I'd rather you not think and just do what I tell you." You answer.
  "Well apologies, but that's not the kind of woman I am. Pretty sure you know that."
  "Yeah, don't I know it..." you say and then start chuckling.
  "What's so funny?"
  "I was just thinking about how many times back in Teckleville I used to go out my mind telling you to do something and you'd just blatantly ignore me."
  "Teckleville...seems like a lifetime ago."
  "Yeah, it's weird though sometimes I still think about the place and my family. Wonder how my mom and dad are doing. Probably living a safe and boring life. Drama free life too without me around. I guess if we'd stayed our lives would've eventually been safe and boring too."
  "I dunno, you almost got killed there."
  "Yeah. Can't go home again anyway."
  "Is...that what you want?"
  "Eh. I mean when was running a semi-legitimate business, I thought it was a little dull at times, but there was sort of a relief that I wasn't looking over my shoulder every five minutes. But of course after that all was over, I obviously went back to my old ways."
  "Any particular reason why you did?"
  "No. Just habit I guess. Plus, wasn't like I had a reason to really go legit anymore."
  "So it took the love of honest woman to make you settle down?"
  "Wouldn't call Zalmora an honest woman, she was an ex-Talon. Just had more sense than the rest. I dunno, I liked her and she liked me and I thought you were gone for good so I suppose I just latched on to her."
  "So you didn't love her?"
  "Yeah. I mean fuck, I dunno. I assume I must have on some level. What's with all the questions?!"
  "Okay, relax. Just asking. I'm not mad or anything. I mean it's not like I didn't meet someone during my eventful stay in the Delantium Kingdom."
  "Oh? You never mentioned that during our last meeting."
  "Well I was still sorting it out then not to mention all that other shit with you went down. Wasn't really a good time for the story."
  "Let me guess. It involved the Ebony Claw Syndicate."
  "Yeah he was definitely a Syndicate member. Met him by chance, but had years of fun with him. Had so much fun that he got the fool notion to want to run away with me with a bunch of the Syndicate's coin. Sure you know how that one turned out."
  
  You nod and don't say anything while she continues.
  
  "Funny thing is, I thought for a brief moment that I'd put you behind. I'd gotten over you. I mean I THOUGHT what I had for him was love. But it wasn't."
  "Oh? What was it then?"
  "Distraction. I mean what we were doing was wild and exciting. Defying the law, ripping off the Syndicate, I probably loved all that more than him. Didn't really realize that until I was being fucking tortured and I gave him up so easily."
  "What?"
  "Oh sure, I held out a bit, but honestly most of the shit the Syndicate did to me was AFTER I gave up his secret hiding spot. I imagine they would have done much worse or killed me had I not given him up so easily. You know they killed him right in front of me, after they tortured the both of us. Even when they told him how I gave him up, he wasn't mad he just kept pleading for them not to kill me."
  "Well...I guess you did what you had to."
  "Damn right I did. And I don't feel any remorse about it. I mean at first I was upset, but I think that was mostly from the physical torture and fear that I was also going to die that night. As for him? All I could think is how foolish he was for falling for me in the first place."
  "That's some cold shit...but again I get it."
  "After I was let go, I dwelled on all of it for very long time. I wondered if I was evil or crazy, even wondered if I was possessed by a demon. However when I found you again in that store in Hessla, all those old feelings I felt for you, they came back and I was right. You would always be my one and only."
  
  Annah puts her hands in her face and you can tell she's starting to get emotional.
  
  "I...I guess I just wanted to know if you really loved another even briefly and the reasons. As I said, I don't care, but the fact that you were able to move on and I wasn't, the fact that you don't kill unless you have to, while I've done it without hesitation says a lot about me. (sniffle) Namely...I'm fucked up. I don't know if I got that way over time, or it was always there."
  "Well I wouldn't call myself a beacon of role model behavior Annah. I mean I haven't been tortured by the ECS or had the same experiences you've had. All that plays a part and take a toll. There's still A LOT we don't know about each other and missing gaps, despite the fact that we seem to be drawn to each other. Maybe if we talked more..."
  
  Annah immediately goes to kiss you.
  
  "I don't want to talk anymore. I just want to feel you inside me again. I want you to love me again." She says and continues to kiss you while trying to strip off her clothing.
  
  You proceed to help her achieve her desires.
  
  It's been a long time since you've been intimate with her like this. Even as forward as she was with the initiation of this, she suddenly becomes unsure when your hands embrace her and run across her back. She even attempts to pull away a little, but you reassure her that it's okay and that you don't care.
  
  You aren't sure why, but you also feel the need to mention that you cleared up that shit you caught from Flameflower (whatever the hell it was). Oddly, you don't think it would even matter to Annah right now, but she gives a brief smile at your insistence of being
  
  Later...
  
  You wake up to Annah laying next to you dressed again and just staring at you.
  
  "I know, I know. Watching you sleep is probably creepy." Annah remarks.
  "Considering I once woke up after you drugged me and robbed me blind, this is a lot more preferable. What the hell..." you reply when you feel a wetness on your hand that's hanging over the bed.
  
  You look over briefly and realize its Checkers licking your hand. You sit up and move your hand away.
  
  "Hm, uncharacteristically friendly of Checkers to be licking my hand rather than biting my ankle." You say.
  "She likes you, you know." Annah says.
  "Well the furry beast has participated in saving my life a few times, so I guess she's alright. Has she grown at all? She looks about the same size when I first saw her."
  "Not much. Just grown older I suppose."
  "Happens to the best of us."
  "I don't really like to think about how her years are probably coming to an end soon though. Weird, I know considering what I've been doing the last few years."
  "Well seems like she's had a good life under your care. Whatever else you may be thinking about yourself Annah, you've got a nurturing side to you."
  
  You give Checkers a pet and get up to get dressed. Annah continues to go from watching you and staring at nothing in particular. By the time you're half dressed, she suddenly gets up.
  
  "Hey, so I gotta go now. Best that I get this information back to the Syndicate and all." Annah says.
  "You're leaving? Already?" you ask.
  "Yeah, no point in sticking around. If the Syndicate wants anyone wiped out, they can do it themselves."
  "Ah. So you're taking my advice and this is going to be your last job with them?"
  "Yeah. I thought about it and you're right. I need to do something else with my life. This...path with or without the Syndicate that I'm on really isn't the healthiest. I don't sleep much, I'm constantly looking over my shoulder, well you know how it is."
  "Yeah I know how it can get. And I imagine for you it's worse. So what are you going to do?"
  "I dunno, guess I'll have to figure that out. In any case, you might want to start thinking about relocating yourself. Not immediately, but y'know."
  "I could just come with you right now. I mean its not like I'm tied to this place."
  "As much as I'd like that, I think I need to work some things out. Last thing I want to do is destroy what little we still have left due to some stupid argument we're going to inevitably get into."
  "Annah, I don't really get this. I mean it's obvious you want to get back together and I'm open to it, so I don't see the need for you to just go wandering off again. We're obviously both different than we were thirteen years ago. Whatever personal demons and shit we got to deal with, we can deal with them together."
  "Remember how you weren't ready the last time we met up? It wasn't your fault or my fault, just bad timing?"
  "Yeah, but..."
  "Well, this is yet another case of that. I got shit going on in my head that I don't even want to heap on you. Your life as it is right now, is calm. I know you. You like to keep things simple. That's probably why you nearly went legit with Zal. It was easier and more convenient at the time since that's the way life seemed to be heading. When it was gone, you fell back into the old ways, because again it was easy and familiar. While I know I'm familiar, I'm definitely NOT easy to be with. I don't know what the future for me holds. Everything is always a whirlwind of thrills and not always in a good way. You don't want to deal with that and I don't want you to have to deal with it. At least not until I believe I've got my shit together enough that it's not going to fuck up your feelings for me."
  "Annah, unless you shot me in the dick or something, whatever you got going on right now isn't likely to change how I feel, but fine. I won't bother arguing with you even though I really want to. Obviously you feel strongly about this, so once again I'll see you when I see you and hopefully whenever that is, you won't be affiliated with these Syndicate assholes again."
  
  Annah touches your face and smiles a bit.
  
  "I'll be careful." She says and kisses you goodbye before calling Checkers to follow her.
  
  And once again Annah's gone. One of these days the pair of you are going to get your timing right.
  
  In the meantime, you at least got some knowledge about what changes are about to come to Jicol even if not immediately. You figure you'll stick around for now and see how things go.
  
  Maybe you can even prepare for the coming storm.
  
  > Time passes...
  Year 32
  
  "So yeah, they're going to start rebuilding that old Fel temple in the jungle and turning it into a headquarters soon." Marco tells you.
  "Hm, looks like the Syndicate is moving quicker everyday." You answer.
  "Yeah, but its good. I mean I know you told us all to watch our asses, but so far the Syndicate members that we've had dealings with have all been pretty reasonable guys. Even said that the Black Hooks could be fully incorporated as full members in a year or so. We've been doing a lot better in general."
  "Well glad to hear it. Maybe I was wrong."
  "It's okay. I guess you were just looking out for us like you always have. Y'know, you should join too! You're really skilled and the Syndicate is looking for members like that!"
  "So I've heard. A couple of them have approached me a few times, but I'm just not interested."
  "Yeah, but if you joined you wouldn't need to pay protection and you'd be able to do whatever you wanted!"
  "Pretty sure I wouldn't be able to do WHATEVER I wanted. It's not like the old days where you can just break and enter into anywhere. Thanks, but I'm good with what I'm doing now. Anyway, what's the Syndicate tax this month? Did it go up to help rebuild the temple?"
  "No, it's the same, but you know you don't need to worry about it. I got you covered, but I just don't know how long I'm gonna be able to. Sooner or later the Syndicate might get one of their guys to start doing the collecting. That's why I'm trying to become a real member soon!"
  "Thanks as usual Marco, but don't worry yourself too much about it. I'll be fine."
  "Okay...see you later then. And thanks for unloading that other stuff for me."
  "No problem. Later Marco."
  
  Marco leaves your "shop" and you just shake your head and smile at what a few little words of encouragement and support can do to mold a young mind. Marco probably sees you as the dad he wished he had. You imagine some of the other Black Hooks d too.
  
  Which of course is handy since its paid off as far as you not really having to kick anything up to the Syndicate whose presence has becoming more noticeable in last few months. Might be time to leave soon. You don't know where you'll go though.
  
  While you're pondering this, the door opens and someone comes in.
  
  "Son, you and I need to have a long talk."
  
  You can't believe it. He's older (But to you he was always old and unfun) but you'd never mistake his face or his voice.
  
  "Dad?" you ask.
  "Of course its me!" he responds.
  "Wh...what the hell are you doing here?"
  "Trust me, it's not something I wanted to do, but after a long talk with your mother, its what we both decided in the hopes that you've still got it in you to do the right thing. Call us hopeless optimists."
  "You came all the way here to give me a lecture after nearly twenty years? How the hell did you even find me?!"
  "Annah told us. Well told us where your last where abouts were anyway. She said you'd probably still be here since you've always had a tendency to stay put unless you absolutely have to move, which sounds about right."
  "Wait, you've spoke to Annah?! When?"
  "Nearly on a daily basis, for the past couple years. Pretty much ever since she come back to Teckleville and had the babies."
  
  "Congratulations, you've got twins you've never seen."
  
  You are getting flooded with so much information right now that you can't even process it all.
  
  "That's...impossible. Last time I saw Annah was two years ago."
  "Yeah well that timeline matches up since that's how old they are. Look, I delivered them myself, not to mention they look like you and your sister. You're definitely the father, despite Annah trying not to admit it. That didn't last long though, since I'm pretty sure that's why she came back to Teckleville in the first place. She knew your mother and I wouldn't NOT help her."
  'I...don't believe it. I mean...and I hate even asking this, are you REALLY sure? I mean maybe this..."
  "Is what? A scam to get money from us? Boy, I wasn't born yesterday. I told you, the two little buggers look like you and your sister. The genetics are impossible to ignore. I mean the hair is darker and there's a difference in eye color, but there's no mistake. Shit, I even hired a wizard from Klyton to double check. They're definitely your work."
  "Fuck..."
  "Yeah, well that's what got you into this mess. Anyway, this brings me to why I'm here. YOU need to come back and take responsibility. I understand you're off having fun being a criminal, but even Annah gave that up after having children. They need a father and your mother and I need a fucking a break. Our days of running about catching two twin terrors are supposed to be over."
  "Wait, why are you just now coming to get me then?"
  "Oh, I wanted to get you a lot sooner. However Annah always claimed that she didn't know where you were. Having raised two of the best liars, I knew she wasn't telling the truth, but I always assumed you pissed her off and she didn't want you involved. However, thanks to your mother's monthly interrogating via niceness, Annah finally broke down a few months ago and as it turned out Annah just didn't want you to put your own life on hold for this. She said she'd put you through enough trouble in the past. Ain't that sweet?"
  "Sounds like her."
  "Also sounds fucking retarded. Why the hell should you get to continue to live without care and responsibility? Your mother of course thought you should come back too, but she was worried about me going to get you. Thought we should hire bounty hunters to find you, but I figured I'd make more of an impression and you're probably already adept at avoiding capture anyway. So here I am."
  "Yes, so here you are. You might have been better off going with mom's idea though. At least you would have had a better chance of getting me back to Teckleville. Speaking of which, how the hell can I go back anyway? Aren't I wanted for murder there?"
  "Oh. Yeah, no. That actually got settled shortly after you ran off with Annah. Some of the witnesses to the fight admitted Klint started it and you killing him was more of an accident and even self defense."
  "You're shitting me."
  "Nope. Surprised me too. Not that you weren't a murderer, since I figured Klint started it because he was an asshole like his father, but that people actually came around and spoke up in your favor. Anyway, the charges were dropped which pissed off Klint's dad who left the village swearing revenge and that was about the end of it."
  "So you're saying I'm completely free and clear?"
  "Yep. Have been for years now. The old sheriff is dead now anyway, so it's not even like you have worry about him either. In fact Annah, works as a deputy of the town now, so you've got a lot of breathing room as far as your shady past is concerned."
  "Annah's a...what the...well I guess she found something new to do like she said she would."
  "Yep. And it's time you do as well."
  
  Your dad sees the apprehensive and non-committal look on your face and sighs.
  
  "And of course you're going to be stubborn about this..." he remarks.
  "Dad, I appreciate the update and all this news about Annah, but this is a lot to fucking take in! I mean I don't know what she's told you, but our relationship isn't exactly the most stable. I mean its not like she came here herself and TOLD me about her being pregnant. Shit, she didn't even tell you and Mom where I was until recently like you said. I might not have even been here anymore. Obviously she thinks we're better off apart."
  "Bullshit, if she really thought that, she wouldn't have come back home at all. She knew your mother and I would help her. Gods know her own lush of a mother isn't going to help. Look, I'm not some relationship expert, but obviously you two have enough chemistry between each other that you got yourselves into this mess."
  "Maybe, but kids didn't really play a part in any of it."
  "Yeah well shit happens. You think your mother and I planned for twins? Also didn't plan on you two being criminals. Still don't know why the hell you two turned out the way you did considering you had everything."
  "Here we go, another lecture...I'm not a fucking teenager anymore dad."
  "Damn right you aren't, which is why its time you stopped fucking acting like one and take some responsibility for a fucking change! What the hell do you have going on that's oh so fucking important right now? From what I can tell this dump you're living in, you aren't exactly living some carefree life of a swashbuckler like in those badly written novels. What, you spend all the coin you steal on wine and whores?"
  "I'll have you know I live frugally and save very carefully."
  "Well great. Good for you. Glad to hear you're a thrifty thief. Actually explains a lot. Now, if you've got so much coin saved up, you've got enough to support your children."
  "Is this what it's ultimately about? Fine, I'll go empty out my safe and you can take it all to give to Annah and the kids."
  
  Your father suddenly gives you a minor tap upside your head. It's unexpected and you almost feel like you're ten years old again.
  
  "What the fuck?!" you utter.
  "This isn't about money, this is about responsibility and YOU needing to fucking take some! Your children need their father, you've already missed some of it, you really want to miss it all?" your father says.
  "Why don't you do it? Obviously you think I'm a no good vagabond, so I would make a terrible father."
  "Maybe you would, but I don't think so. Surprised to hear me say that?"
  "A little."
  "Well I'm not saying it to boost your ego, I'm saying it because I believe based on what Annah's told me about you and the boy I used to know. There is a streak of responsibility in you. I mean even as a thief you're obviously preparing for the future by saving your ill-gotten loot. I remember how you always stuck by your sister and tried to take the blame for some of the more serious shenanigans you two got up to. It looks like you're running some sort of shop here and Annah's said you've run a shop in the past with some other woman that you apparently had a stable relationship with. You've got it in you to be a contributing member of society."
  "I don't know about that."
  "Well you won't know unless you try and you might as well try with a family. As far as you and Annah are concerned, well I don't know if you two are going to be a proper husband and wife. I mean it'll be good if you can, and I'm inclined to believe you two are still in love. However, if that doesn't work out, you should at least still be there for your children."
  "You don't think I'll just be a bad influence?"
  "Oh, I don't doubt that you won't to some degree, however I also don't think you're going to want to put up with the headache of raising two little criminals. I know Annah certainly won't and I can't say I'd want to be on her bad side. What the hell happened to her anyway? I swear she can shoot the wings off a fly."
  "Long story, though I don't know all of it since she's never told me the whole story about her adventures during our times away from each other either."
  "Well maybe that's something you can finally catch up on and bond over. Besides, y'know, your kids of course."
  "Maybe."
  
  Your father puts a hand on your shoulder.
  
  "Look, this has been an exciting adventure for me and all, but I really want to get back home before your mother starts hiring a search party. I need to know if you're coming with me or not. It's a simple answer that doesn't require much overthinking. If you are, let's get going now. If you aren't, then I won't bother you again with this."
  
  > go with your father
  It's a strange position that you never thought you'd ever be in, but you're in it and even stranger, you're ready to embrace it.
  
  One thing your father said that convinced you the most was the question of "What are you doing that's so important?"
  
  Nothing. You are not doing anything of major importance. If anything, you're probably living just as boring of a life in Jicol as you would in Teckleville. You haven't actually done any real thieving since the Syndicate started making more of a presence here, you do more middle man merchant shit than anything else.
  
  You could leave and start over elsewhere which is what you thinking about doing anyway. But if you're going to do that, you might as well have a better purpose than just doing the same thing again.
  
  Besides, you've done fairly well in this profession all things considered. You might as well "retire" ahead of the game before something REALLY bad happens to you. This might as well be your out as it were. Not to mention, Annah's saved your life several times over. The least you could do to repay her is to help out with your spawn.
  
  That's going to be weird though. You suppose you'll just have to muddle through that, hopefully better than your own parents did.
  
  "Okay dad, I'll come with you, but need to get some things first and make some arrangements." You say.
  "By the gods, you actually listened to me for once. I'm not going to question it, but glad to see I finally got through." Your father says in partial disbelief and relief.
  
  To ensure a safe trip home with your savings, you hire a few mercenaries to escort you to Klyton. From there you figure you shouldn't have much problem.
  
  You also leave your "shop" and home to Marco and his group, though you don't tell him that immediately, you write a message and hand it to a courier to give it to Marco in a few days. Just a simple note not explaining where you went, just that you had to leave and that they can do whatever they want with the property.
  
  Finally you board a ship heading to Hessla with your father (and your small retinue).
  
  While you're on board, your father has one more surprise for you that you have plenty of time to talk about along the way.
  
  "Oh by the way son, I guess I might as well tell you, you've got a younger brother now." Your father says.
  "WHAT?! How?!"
  "Pretty sure you're familiar with the process."
  "Ha ha. I'm talking about you and mom. I mean you guys are old!"
  "Fuck you, we're weren't THAT old when you and your sister took off. True, we sort of thought that part of our lives was over, but soon after you were gone, I guess nature decided to give us another chance to get it right. And we did. Adam has never been a problem child."
  "Hm, well congratulations I guess. Another new family member for me to meet I suppose."
  "Speaking of family, you know anything about your sister? Any contact with her at all?"
  "No. I do wonder what she's been up to though. Always hope she's okay."
  "She is as far as I know. Your mother and I get occasion messages from her. Not many and the last one I think was a few years ago but she said she was doing fine. Having her own adventures no doubt."
  "Oh. Well I'm glad to hear that. Hope that's still the case. I miss her."
  "Your mother and I do as well. Despite her criminal ways, she was always creative. Just wish she put more into that instead of...well unlawful behavior. Still, I guess she has been doing that from some of the stuff she's written to us."
  
  The rest of the trip is mainly you catching up with your father. It's odd, but neither of you really argues once. You even laugh and joke a few times. You don't tell him everything that happened though. Some things you just would rather leave buried. At least for now.
  
  Your father never really presses you for too much information anyway. He probably doesn't want to know some of what you were involved in. Although there is one question...
  
  "Just wondering, I mentioned Klint's father left Teckleville muttering about revenge. My guess is he went to go look for you. You never ran into him did you?"
  "Nope. Can't say I ever did."
  "I only ask since you mentioned you ran to Klyton, and my guess is that's where he first went to look for you. I asked Annah once and she said she never bumped into him either. Still, seems strange he never came back here."
  "Dad, if he did, you know Klyton's a huge city. I mean it wasn't like I was making myself well known there either. If he did go there, he must have given up and went elsewhere. Not exactly like safe travels are a sure thing, hence why I hired mercs for part of our trip."
  
  Your father looks at you a moment. You already know he's trying to see if you're lying.
  
  "Okay. Just thought I'd ask."
  
  You aren't sure if your father believes you or he just doesn't care and was merely curious. Either way, he doesn't press the issue.
  
  You eventually reach Hessla, then Klyton and from Klyton you start the last stretch of your trip in the carriage ride to Teckleville. That's when you begin to get nervous. You didn't think that would happen, but you begin to get so nervous that its visibly noticeable to your father.
  
  "Not having second thoughts I hope." Your father says.
  "No, not at this point. Too late to turn back now. Fuck..." you say.
  "Son, you'll be fine. You'll soon realize this isn't the end of the world."
  "Yeah, I guess."
  "Think of it this way. What's the worst thing that has ever happened to you? Don't tell me if you don't want. Just think about it. Now with that in mind, do you have ANY thought that reuniting with Annah and seeing your children for the first time is going to be remotely worse than that?"
  
  You think for a moment, wincing a bit about your encounter with Flameflower.
  
  "No. Definitely can't be anywhere near as bad." You say.
  "Well, see? There you go then." You father says and then pats you on the shoulder a couple times.
  
  Which is easy for dad to say considering he doesn't really know the extent of just how bad that event was. In any case, you manage to calm yourself down and just try to rest before you get to your destination.
  
  Eventually you reach Teckleville during the night. Your father wakes you up.
  
  "Get up, we're here. I'll help the driver get your things off the carriage, in the meantime you go knock on the door and make your presence known." Your dad says.
  "Wha? Wait, where exactly are we?" you ask half asleep.
  "Teckleville, ya idjit. We're near Annah's home. Still early in the night so you probably aren't going to be waking her up."
  "Shit. I'm really here. Okay, well guess nothing to it, but to do it."
  "You'll be fine."
  
  You get out of the carriage and your dad once again points to the house where Annah lives. Fairly small, but then, probably doesn't need too much room and this is the best she could do.
  
  You have no idea why you're still so nervous. You've bumped into Annah several times in the past after long stretches of being separated. Why is this different?
  
  Oh right.
  
  The other thing that's different is you're seeking her out, or rather your dad dragged you to her. In most other instances, she's always been the one to go to you. She didn't even tell you about being pregnant. She could have at least got a message to you or something if she really thought it was important for you to know. Apparently she didn't.
  
  You know what your father said her reasoning was, but maybe she really just wanted to make a clean break. Start fresh. Maybe you being here isn't what she would want at all. For all you know she's going to tell you to get right back on that carriage and go away.
  
  You march up to the door and before you can even knock, the door opens.
  
  "Annah. I..." you start to say before she immediately hugs and kisses you.
  
  Well so much for her telling you to go away. Apparently the love is still there.
  
  "Your mother told me your father went to get you. When I heard the carriage outside I just hoped it was you!" Annah exclaims with some emotional tears in her eyes.
  "Annah, why didn't you just tell me?" you ask.
  "I don't know! It was stupid, but I just thought...I dunno a part of me just didn't think you needed to be saddled with all this. But I'm so glad you're here now! You're back right? You're not going anywhere right?"
  "As far as I know I'm not going anywhere Annah."
  "Oh I'm so glad. We'll finally be a proper family."
  
  As you embrace Annah's tight hold on you and those words of being a "proper family" you feel a small part of your old life slipping away.
  
  Not really in a bad way, but you really know now for certain that things are never going to be the same. You're going to have to find something legitimate to do. You doubt even fencing stolen goods is going to be something you can engage in around here. You'll think of something though.
  
  Your father and driver drop your trunk of stuff near you.
  
  "Well I can see you two got a lot to talk about. I'll leave you to it. Your mother will probably be by to see you tomorrow so expect to see her." Your dad says as the driver walks away back to the carriage.
  "Um, okay dad. And thanks." You say.
  "Hm. Told you, it would be fine."
  
  Soon, the carriage is gone and so is your father, leaving you and Annah alone.
  
  Well not totally alone.
  
  "So hey let me help you get that trunk in and you can finally meet your son and daughter." Annah says.
  "Don't worry I'll get the trunk." You say and take one side of the hefty trunk and drag it just inside the house.
  "I've actually told them about you a few times."
  "Oh? Hopefully just the good stuff, because I'm sure their grandfather will be more than willing to tell them the bad."
  "Come on, I'll take you to them."
  
  As the front door closes and Annah takes your hand, you realize your life as a rogue is over.
  
  > Epilogue
  Epilogue 12: No Place Like Home
  
  Year 36
  
  "Emma, Evan, come over here and pay attention to what I'm doing because this might just come in handy one day." You say beckoning your children over.
  
  The pair of them come over to watch you work and listen to you talk as you put together a new lock. They probably don't understand everything, but that's fine. Just as long as they're absorbing something. They'll learn in time.
  
  Of course it isn't the most stimulating thing to watch, so they soon get bored.
  
  "When are you going to put another trap together?" Evan asks.
  "Heh, prefer watching me do that huh? Probably next week, I'll get a bunch of requests for some. Jackalope season is coming or at least they should start popping up a lot." You say.
  "Can you build a trap to catch one so we can keep it!?" Emma asks.
  "Emma, I told you before, Jackalopes do NOT make good pets. I don't care how cute you think they look. Maybe when you're older, you'll get a dog. And that's a big maybe."
  "Mom said she had a dog once. I don't remember it though." Evan remarks.
  "Well you probably were too young to remember. I wasn't around at the time, but she said Checkers departed this world about a year after she came here. In fact she's buried right where that bush with the flowers on it is growing in the backyard." You reply.
  "Was Checkers fluffy?" Emma asks.
  "I do recall her being on the fluffier side, yes. She was also little, but surprisingly a bit of a fighter for her size. I'm sure your mother could tell you more about her if you ask."
  
  Suddenly Evan asks you a question you weren't really expecting.
  
  "Dad, how come you weren't around before?" Evan asks.
  "Well, I would have been, but I didn't know about you guys. When I found out, I obviously came here to be here for you and your sister." You answer.
  "But how come you didn't know?"
  "Well, that's a long story and one that you'll probably learn later when you get older. However I will say this, you and your sister don't have to worry about me not being around again. You and your mother are my life and I'll always be here for you okay?"
  
  This comment seems to get nods from the pair of them.
  
  "I also want you know that while I know it might seem boring around here and there may even come a day when you want to leave for whatever reason, you've still always got a home here." You say.
  "When me and Evan get older we're going to be explorers and fight monsters!" Emma beams.
  "Oh really? The pair of you have decided this?"
  "Yeah! We'll build big traps and catch them!" Evan adds.
  "Well good thing I'm here to teach you how to make such traps then."
  "Yeah! I'll set up the traps and Emma will shoot them when they get caught!"
  "Sounds like you two have got plans to work together. Heh, reminds me of how me and my sister used to work as a team when we were your age."
  "What did you do?"
  
  You chuckle a bit and nearly want to go on about all the shenanigans you and your sister got into, but since you don't really want them repeating said shenanigans, you leave it vague. Their grandfather will no doubt tell them one day anyway.
  
  "Oh, we just had a lot of fun making up games and such. I guess you might even say our teamwork ultimately resulted in how I know so much about locks and traps today."
  "Understatement of the century."
  
  You look towards your shop door and see a familiar face. It's been years. Decades. But you'd never forget no matter how much time has passed, in fact you're so overcome with emotion, you forget to rein in your language.
  
  "By the fucking gods! Is it really you I see there before me?" you ask.
  "Yep, it's your sister from the same mister! Well don't just stand there, give me a hug!" Your sister responds.
  
  You almost push Evan and Emma out of the way to embrace her. You can't believe she's really here. Meanwhile your children are wondering who this woman is.
  
  "It's good to see you after what twenty years?" You say.
  "Too damn long bro. Too damn long. Hey don't squeeze too tight, I got my mandolin on my back and it's pretty unique." Your sister says.
  "Well you look good anyway, not sure about your clothing though, a little too colorful for my tastes, but then you always were the flashy one."
  "Oh ho! Well at least I can still fit into my clothing from twenty years ago! What the hell have you been eating?" Your sister remarks poking your belly a bit.
  "Alright, alright, I haven't gotten that fat. When did you get here?"
  "Last night actually. Didn't know you were here, mom filled me in a little on some things. So let me guess these two little darlings are my niece and nephew I assume?"
  
  You motion Emma and Evan to come over to meet their aunt for the first time. Since they have heard of her before they ask a few simple questions about herself which she happily answers. At this point the pair of them are probably wondering if they have any other family members that are going to suddenly drop into their lives.
  
  Suddenly the door opens and Annah comes in. Your sister is very surprised to see her. She knew you two were married since your mom told her, but Annah's appearance is probably a shocker.
  
  "Hey Annah, look who dropped in." you say.
  "Yeah I heard, ran into your mother during patrol and she mentioned your sister was back in town. Hey, been awhile." Annah replies.
  "Yeah, I'll say. How are you Annah?" your sister says.
  "I'm fine. I just finished my rounds for today and heading home. Figured I'd take Emma and Evan with me, it's getting time to eat and they're probably bored here anyway."
  
  Emma and Evan both nod in agreement and go to Annah right away.
  
  "I'm guessing you two are going to play catch up here for awhile, so I'll leave you to it. See you at home. Say goodbye to your aunt, children."
  
  Emma and Evan both say goodbye to your sister and the three of them leave. Since Annah's right that you'll be talking with your sister awhile, you close up the shop.
  
  "Gotta say Annah looks very different from when I last remembered her. Shit, she actually looks a little dangerous."
  "Oh she's definitely dangerous. Crack shot with firearms. She'll probably be sheriff around here eventually."
  "How the hell did that happen? I mean I heard you two ran away from here not long after I left and I get that events can change a person, but what the hell did you two get up to? In fact didn't you kill that asshole Klint?"
  "Yeah, that's why I left, though I really wasn't intending to at the time, despite him trying to kill me. Annah actually just followed me; she wasn't in any trouble over the incident. Of course if I'd waited a few months, I could have returned a lot sooner apparently since my name got cleared."
  "Would you have returned?"
  "Probably not. I was living my life in Klyton at the time, such as it was. Still, would have been nice have known it was an option."
  "Were you in Klyton the whole time?"
  "Oh no. I eventually moved to Hessla for awhile and even Jicol before I came back three years ago."
  "Wow, okay. So you haven't been back here that long. Wait, so was Annah with you the whole time? Mom told me you two are married now."
  "Heh, no. Annah and I had an interesting extended courtship shall I say. Wasn't always positive, but it worked out in the end obviously."
  "Well that's good. Always knew she liked you even back then. Very surprised that you got married though, even more surprised you're living this sort of ordinary life that dad always wanted us to live."
  "Surprises me too at times. I don't miss the old ways as much as I thought I would. I think I've had enough wild experiences to last me the rest of my life. A lot of it was fun, but some of it, yeah...not so much."
  "Yeah, I hear you there. There's definitely sometimes when I would have preferred to be in a nice cozy home."
  "So are you staying here too?"
  "Well maybe for awhile, but I think I'm just a wanderer by nature and eventually I'll move on. Still, I sometimes miss having you around to assist like the old days."
  "Hey, maybe you could convince Adam to go with you when you leave. I'm assuming you met him seeing as he's still living at home, but is looking to move out soon."
  "Oh yeah! Our new younger brother! Shit, that one was a big surprise too! Yeah I spoke to him yesterday. Sort of quiet, but seemed nice enough. Don't think he'd be a replacement for you though. Guessing he was the non-problem child."
  "Yeah, apparently he might as well be a saint of Joachim. Though I guess mom and dad deserved a break after us.
  "Hah, you're probably right. So are you happy then?"
  "I am sis. I really am. It's probably a lot less exciting, but I'm okay with that and I'm happy with my family."
  "Good. Glad to hear it. However, I don't want to hear about the boring stuff. I want to hear about the adventures you had before you settled down and became a family man."
  
  You chuckle.
  
  "Well it's a long story." You say.
  "Best ones usually are." Your sister replies.
  
  You begin your tale...