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Jared was nervous, but everyone backstage was supportive. Mark had given them the rundown, and most were pretty chill in showing him the ropes as well. They showed him all the different masks he could use, with separate glamour attachments, but none caught his eye until he found a fancy looking eye-patch.

"Oh, that thing," Rodeo said, laughing. "Some guys like a rough sailor type. Go ahead, kid."

Jared didn't think it looked much like a 'rough sailor type' eye-patch, though obviously he decided to try it on all the same. He was a bit surprised when the strap molded to fit his head, and no matter what he did he realized it felt comfortable. Rodeo flipped the eye-patch up and Jared could see out of his right eye again. He had to admit, the effect was stunning... yet, he flipped it back down on his own.

"You won't be able to see out of that eye if you keep it down the entire dance," another dancer said, though he must have been wearing a glamour because Jared couldn't place him, and he worked there. "Though I guess if you keep your right side to the pole, you won't have much trouble. Crowd wants to see that you're noticing them, and eye contact is a good way to do that..."

More advice kept coming as they helped him decide other things, and by the time he was done he didn't recognize himself in the mirror. He'd thought it was another dancer at first, and a stunning one at that... before he remembered he was wearing a glamour. He really was sexy, wasn't he? Riding high from his confidence boost, he waited until Mark came back.

"Hey, amateur hour's almost here. Is Jared ready?"

"I'm ready," Jared said, right next to him. Mark had to do a double-take before he smiled, though Jared could tell there was a bit of interest there too. "How do I do this?"

"You go out there, dance, and have fun. The boys treated you well if they're letting you wear all that. Usually they give the amateurs the generic stuff."

"Oh! I didn't..."

"Take it as a compliment, though I... need your stage name, if you have one."

Jared looked in the mirror, still amazed it was actually himself he was looking at. A name sprung to his mind; while it seemed random at first, the more he said it in his head the better it felt.

"...My identity is a secret, right? So... Rune. What better name for one as mystifying as myself?"

"If I didn't know you were Jared... no, even knowing you're Jared, that just gave me chills. You should definitely use that confidence," Mark said, clearly impressed. As if responding to his stage name, the eye-patch formed a symbol not unlike a rune over the top of it... no doubt part of the glamour. Standing, he couldn't help but admire the jockstrap that he'd nearly forgotten he was wearing, since it had been so comfortable. It had changed to match his eye-patch, both a midnight blue in color. More runes formed along the strap, each one a different shape. They seemed to shimmer as he moved, giving off a more mystical aura.

"When do I go on?"

"Honestly? It's five more minutes but I am willing to start early."

"Let's do it then," Jared said, smiling confidently at himself, before following Mark down the corridor. A lot of the dancers looked at him as if he were new, though the ones who had helped him gave him parting advice and encouraging remarks. He stood where he was instructed while Mark went through a separate door. Closing his uncovered eye, he could hear the bar just beyond the curtain. Was he really about to do this? It was too late to turn back now, but even so...

"Hey how's everyone doing tonight?" the announcer said, his voice booming over the microphone. Cheers and hollers answered back, and Jared smiled despite himself. "It's Amateur Hour, and you know what that means! Do your best to support all our brave volunteers, and if you like what you see then you know what to do!"

"...Breathe," Jared told himself. "Just breathe..."

"Now, you may have noticed we're starting a bit early, but I've just been informed of a very special act coming up next for your viewing pleasure! Who is he? What does he look like? Can you be sure of your own two eyes? Everyone please welcome to the stage the magical warrior of mysticism... Rune!"

The music started and it was like a light came on in his head; he opened his good eye and smiled seductively. He felt good. Felt confident. Striding out as if he owned the damn place, he was greeted with the crowd's gaze as he walked the catwalk just like he'd seen so many do before him. He didn't rush out like so many did their first time, nor did he hang back. He existed to be admired, to be feared. Was this how Seth felt his first time? It didn't matter; wherever his eye roved, he found men clamoring for his attention, cheering for him. He remembered the things they'd told him backstage as he grabbed the pole: give them a show. Leave them wanting for more. Do what comes naturally.

He knew what they all wanted. He'd been in their shoes countless times. Hell, he'd dug into countless peoples' heads for half a year. Instead of blanking out like a deer in headlights, he began swinging his body around. Slowly, seductively... the music pounding through him and the stares of awestruck patrons melted away all his doubts. This was what he'd wanted; their attention. To feel desirable and to be desired. The runes on his outfit glowed with the light of the stage, shimmering as if dancing with him and playing tricks with the eyes of those who watched him. He hadn't even noticed how silent it had gotten, though he assumed it was to make amateurs less nervous. There was a lot of respect at this bar from the regulars, especially for someone with the guts to do what they couldn't. It was all over too quickly for him, though, and whatever spell he'd cast on himself and the audience was broken with the final notes of the music. Cheers erupted from the crowd as he panted, resting against the pole without making it too obvious he'd tired himself out. What a good workout, and he was already pretty buff as it was.

"Wow, what a spectacularly amazing performance from first-timer Rune! Did he leave you wanting for more? Well luckily for all you fine patrons of the bar, we have more where that came from..."

As he made his way backstage, he passed the next dancer just as they were being announced. Making his way through the corridor, he was handed a bottled water from Rodeo. The bull anthro simply nodded proudly, before wrapping an arm around his shoulder and guiding him to a nearby couch.

"Sit. Hydrate. You did good, Rune," Rodeo said, winking at him. "You sure you've never done this before, though?"

"No. First time," Jared said, using his tusk to pop off the lid before chugging the liquid down. It was half empty before he stopped, catching his breath. "I need to workout more, though. That was exhausting."

"Hey Rodeo," Liam said, having snuck up on them. "Can I speak to Rune for a bit?"

"Sure, hon. Just making sure he replenishes his fluids," the dancer said, winking before moving away.

"...So, Rune," Liam said, smiling at him. "How'd you like it out there?"

"I feel good, honestly. About the whole thing. I just wish I could've kept going. Everyone's so nice back here and the crowd was... well, I've never felt sexier. But I guess it has to end now, huh?"

"What if it didn't?" Liam asked, throwing Jared for a loop.

"What do you mean?"

"What I mean, is do you want to work for me? You're clearly talented. With some training and guidance, you'd be a perfect fit."

"What would I have to do?" Jared asked, curious.

"We'd go up to my office, negotiate a contract... that sort of thing. Nothing too scary. What do you think?"

"...I think that sounds great," Jared said, smiling. "But ah, I already work for you, technically."

"Oh... you're wearing a glamour," Liam said, as if noticing it for the first time. "Mind removing it for me? I make it a point not to peer past the glamours of my dancers. Especially amateurs who are already nervous about going out there."

Nervous, Jared reached up and slowly removed the eye-patch, causing his uncovered eye to wince at the light. Liam nearly gasped before composing himself and smiling.

"...Okay, so we'll have to renegotiate instead of negotiate, but my offer stands," Liam laughed. Jared went to hand him the eye-patch before Liam shook his head. "Keep it. You'll need it for your act, 'Rune'. Training starts Monday."

"...Thanks boss," Jared said, a wave of fatigue washing over him. "I'm beat."

"Rest up here, if you want. Just come up to my office when you're ready. Oh, and don't worry about the rest of your shift. Davin's covering for you. It confused me at the time, but now I know why he said that."

"I'll... rest up here, yeah," Jared said, sighing as he leaned back. This couch was very comfortable, he realized. Had to be, with the variety of different anthros and humans that worked back here. Liam nodded before leaving him there, and before too long Jared's eyelids were drooping. It wasn't much longer before he was fast asleep, the hustle and bustle around him not bothering him in the least.

*******

Seth could only eat so much before the rich food caused him to stop. It was good, very good... but he'd become so used to just cheeseburgers or whatever junk food he could stuff his mouth with that he'd forgotten how good, well, good food could be. Even if he didn't need to eat, it helped to maintain his body and save his energy for more important things... and besides, he still enjoyed eating. It was just a bonus he could eat an entire chocolate cake and not gain a pound unless he really wanted to.

"Are you well?" Dylann asked, leaning in so he could hear him above the din of feasting. "It's okay if you need to-"

"I'm fine," Seth said, laughing. "Just forgot what this was like, is all. And... I want to be near you, so... I'm fine."

"Very well," Dylann said, smiling. "Would you like some more wine? I could..."

"Nah, I'm fine, Dylann. And I can get it myself if I change my mind. No need to interrupt anyone's feasting for my sake. But what's the occasion? You didn't say."

"It's been some time since I was in my realm," Dylann said, though Seth felt that wasn't the entire explanation. "Besides, we don't need a reason to feast. So long as we do it in moderation, of course. We're not Gluttony daemons."

"I suppose not," Seth said, not entirely convinced.

"But... would you like to give it a reason?" Dylann asked, a hesitant look in his eyes. There it was.

"What sort of reason could I give?" Seth asked, smiling. "An aspect shift is hardly worthy of a grand celebration, you know. Happens all the time."

"I was thinking something more official," Dylann said, reaching under the table. Before Seth could ask what he was doing, the sea-goat was placing something into Seth's hands. Looking down, he gasped. It was his old necklace...

"...It's not exactly the same, is it?" Seth said, smiling despite his nerves.

"No. I couldn't ask you to return to your old duties. You'd just bury yourself in work again, and besides, I have enough scholars and court magicians to cover our needs here. But... it still holds authority, this necklace."

"...What would be my duties, then?"

"Whatever you feel like doing," Dylann said, shrugging. "Just promise me you'll step outside this realm every so often, like I do. You have friends and family... a life away from here. What I'm asking of you is no obligation, but a request. You may refuse or give it back at any time, no questions asked. You may be one of my daemons now, but I will not keep you here against your will."

Seth smiled, before slowly bringing his necklace up to his head. People nearby grew quiet as they saw the familiar aquamarine symbol, and as Seth placed it over his head the entire room had grown silent... as if waiting for something. Dylann turned to face them, a proud smile on his face. Taking his goblet, he swirled the enchanted wine within as he waited for everyone else to take up a glass as well.

"For those of you who do not yet know, I brought Seth here with me today. He was once Ortun, though as you have suspected he is now a daemon. And, until just recently, he was of Lust; regardless, he was and is still one of my closest and truest friends. But now he is of Temperance, of my aspect. This allows me to once again confer upon him the title of Second; whatever your thoughts, your feelings of him and his actions, you will respect and obey him as you would me. But for tonight, we celebrate; let us drink in his honor, and feast in his name."

Seth smiled sheepishly as everyone raised their glasses to him, drinking along with Dylann. All this for him? He really wasn't used to this anymore, but it felt good all the same. The necklace suddenly felt very heavy, the weight of his new responsibility becoming clearer to him. He was Dylann's Second. A Temperance daemon with power... and at that realization, he began to feel the realm around him. It was like seeing without his eyes, and as he looked to Dylann the sea-goat simply nodded.

"...I don't know what to say," Seth said, feeling like they were waiting for him. "Um... thank you. Really. I'll do my best to be worthy of this honor."

"That is all any of us can do, Ortun," Dylann said. It was only then Seth realized his voice had been projected in the same way as Dylann's. "Let us feast into the night, for in the morning our work continues."

A cheer rose from the crowd, before the festivities continued in earnest. Seth still wasn't sure how to feel about it all, though he took a sip of his own wine while he thought it through. So much happening in such a short amount of time... he looked up from his brooding when he felt Dylann's hand on his shoulder.

"How long will you be staying for?" Dylann asked, smiling.

"...Depends on how time works here, now," Seth said, shrugging. "Maybe a few days, though?"

"Well, you could stay longer without too much time passing on Earth, though not nearly as much time as before. Still... that necklace should let you come and go much easier now. It's not that I have doubt in your ability to travel, but why waste energy when you don't have to?"

"What about when I go back?"

"What about it?" Dylann asked, tilting his horned head. "It obeys your commands as easily as your own form does. Display your symbol, or change it as you wish."

"Yeah. That makes sense," Seth said, relieved. "I just don't think I'm ready to, you know, announce to everyone that I'm your Second. They'll be shocked enough that I'm of Temperance, now."

"Only if you tell them," Dylann said. "I mean, sure, if you go into one of their realms or the bar, they might be able to tell. But Earth has so many different daemons all around that it's difficult to pinpoint someone's aspect unless you're very strong."

"It's not just that. I already feel a bit different," Seth said, shrugging. "I mean, obviously. I guess I'm just a bit overwhelmed. Sorry."

"Take your time to adjust, Ortun," Dylann said. "It's rough for any daemon to shift the first time. Not to mention you've been through a lot recently."

"Not as much as some," Seth said, before Dylann squeezed his shoulder.

"Your struggles are your own," Dylann said, compassion in his eyes. "Whether someone has it 'better' or 'worse' does not invalidate your own experiences. But we can talk about this later. Try to enjoy your feast, my Second."

"...Yeah, you're right," Seth said, feeling a little better. An aroma hit his nostrils, causing him to look over to a new dish being brought to the table. "Is that... yes, it is. Maybe I'll have a bit more to eat, after all."

"Just don't overdo it," Dylann laughed, taking his hand away as he waved over a servant. "Wouldn't want you getting a bellyache on top of everything, yes?"

"I remember what happened the first time, yes," Seth said, embarrassed as he took a bite with a silver fork. "This is so much better than fast food. Oh my god... my mouth..."

"I'm glad you like it," Dylann said. Falling back into the festive mood around him, Seth feasted and drank as merrily as the rest of them. Though it was different than the wild parties he'd gone to after his transformation. Everyone was more reserved, even as they had a good time with each other's company. More were willing to speak with him as well, when he wasn't deep in discussion with Dylann about some topic or other. No doubt it was because of his aspect or his newly appointed role, but he was grateful all the same. Sometimes, he even thought he spotted a familiar face or two, though with everyone moving about so quickly it was hard to catch a minute or two with them before a new person was introducing themselves or congratulating him. It was going to be a long night, but Seth didn't mind. It was good to just relax, for once. No drama, no giant drones trying to convert an entire realm... just the night and its festivities. Tomorrow's problems could wait.

*******

"Oh not this again," Jared sighed, frustrated already by the mist around him. Had he fallen asleep again? He had a feeling he had. Looking down at his body, he realized he was wearing clothes that didn't belong to him... though, he had to admit they did appeal to him. Simple as it was, he looked like some kind of traveler from a fantasy novel.

"You return," a familiar voice said, and Jared knew Fundinn was beside him before he saw him.

"I still don't know how I got here, but... thanks for the other night, I guess. Even though I get the feeling you could have brought me back yourself without any trouble."

"But what would you have learned about yourself if I had? Though you are right to be angry about it. Still... you have impressed me."

"Who are you, really?" Jared asked, earning a chuckle from the old man.

"A curious one. Good. Will you walk with me again, Jared?"

"...I feel like I need to be somewhere else, actually," Jared said, surprising himself. He had some urge to walk a certain direction. As if something was waiting for him.

"Then perhaps I shall follow you for a bit," Fundinn said, smiling beneath his hood. "Perhaps we are headed the same way. You seem better equipped for a journey this time, at least."

"I suppose?" Jared said, looking at his clothes again. "I mean I don't know why I'm wearing all this, but it's comfortable at least."

"A comfortable set of traveling clothes is rather important. Don't want to chafe, do you?" Fundinn said, laughing as he walked beside Jared. Despite looking frail, Jared found himself struggling to keep up with the older man's brisk pace. Then again, he didn't travel by foot very often... weird dreams aside anyway.

"Did you find what you were looking for last time?" Jared asked, after a bit of an awkward silence.

"Yes. I believe so. Did you?"

"I got home, yeah. If that's what you mean. Still, good to hear you were okay."

"I'm tougher than I look, but I thank you for your concern," Fundinn said, nodding his head in approval. "It isn't often the young worry about the old. Not anymore, anyway."

"I guess not. But ah... I think I'm here? Wherever this is, anyway."

"What a coincidence. This is my destination as well."

"Do you know about it then?" Jared asked, curious about the well in front of them. At least, he assumed it was a well of some kind, though looking at it made his eyes hurt. It was like it was there, but wasn't. Probably something about the mist... it tried to hide it away despite the bright glow emanating from it.

"I do. Though I am surprised you would come here," Fundinn said, shuffling over to the well before resting on a nearby rock. "Not many mortals come here, even knowing what it is. Tell me, Jared: what do you see?"

"A well, glowing with... magic? Some kind of light? I don't really know. It kind of hurts to look at, almost like it's not even here."

"You can see even that much? Then I will tell you what it is," Fundinn said, impressed. "...Hm, seems I was right. You have great potential within you."

"...Yeah, right," Jared said, rolling his eyes. Yet he knew he was being told the truth deep down. "...What potential, though?"

"Magic. Perhaps in your bloodline, or just because you lucked out... either way, I can sense it in you. Begging for release. You've used some already tonight."

"Let me guess. I trade my soul and you give me power."

"You're joking, but no. Not that large a sacrifice, and I can't give you what you already possess. But you must make a sacrifice all the same."

"...I don't have to," Jared said, chuckling. "Maeryn said if I had this dream again, I didn't have to accept anything."

"That would be your choice. But a wise person this Maeryn is, if they know of me. Hmm... still. You would be turning your back on properly controlling your magic. Are you sure you want to do that?"

"...What would I need to sacrifice? Assuming I want magic in the first place," Jared said, figuring it couldn't hurt to at least hear him out. It was only polite, considering he'd walked with him and helped him out before. He didn't trust him by any means, but he wasn't exactly at his house either.

"...Hm. First, let me tell you of the well. It is the Well of Urd, though the true form of the well lies elsewhere. If you drink from it, you will learn many things, including how to use your power, though I can't say what else you may learn."

"And the sacrifice?" Jared said, not so sure about this anymore. He felt this was familiar somehow, like he'd read about it. Urd?

"Well, when I drank... I had to sacrifice an eye first," Fundinn said, and Jared could see the hint of an eyepatch beneath his hood. "But I wouldn't be surprised if he asked something else of you. There will be a cost, regardless. There always is when it comes to power, wisdom, or knowledge."

"He?" Jared asked, before Fundinn shook his head.

"Go and see. I'll wait here for you. It's nice out," Fundinn chuckled, though Jared was starting to get a feeling he wasn't normal even for this place. Not a daemon, but...

"Fine," Jared said, walking toward the well. He was about to reach out and touch it when he felt himself whirling while standing still, unable to see anything but the glow of the well. It took him a bit to recover from his sudden disorientation, but he realized he was somewhere dark. A cave or chamber, maybe. The well seemed more real, though Fundinn was nowhere to be seen. Instead, Jared could sense a presence standing just behind the well across from him. Getting closer, he realized there was some sort of drinking horn, a tablet underneath it. He couldn't read the runes at first, though the longer he stared the more he realized he could understand what it said.

"...So it's an eye you want, after all," Jared said, sighing. "Your name is Mimir, though?"

He didn't receive a response, but that was what the tablet had said. He looked at it again before realizing a handle was sticking out of it. Taking hold, he pulled it until a sharp blade emerged. Even if this was a dream of some kind, Jared felt the weight of this choice pressing down on him as much as any choice in his waking state. He thought about putting it back, but then he remembered when he was a drone. All that could have been avoided if he'd been stronger. If he'd known magic, then maybe...

He spied runes on the edge of the blade; though the thought of taking his own eye was jarring, he somehow knew the blade would take only what he was willing to give. That put him at ease a bit, knowing he couldn't mess up. But he imagined it also meant he had to be truly committed to this choice.

"Once I accept, I must see it through," Jared intoned, nodding. "I understand now."

Jared brought the blade up, his right eye looking down the edge of the blade as it shimmered with the light of the well... and with a flash, it was the last thing that eye saw.

"AH! Fuck!" Jared shouted, the pain intense. The blade was gone, replaced with... he didn't look at it with its twin, and he kept his right eye closed tightly as warm liquid ran down his face. He knew well enough what it was he was holding before he dropped it into the well's waiting maw, and the stone mechanism holding the horn unlocked as it accepted his sacrifice. Carefully but swiftly, he filled the horn with water from the well, its glow captivating him. "This better be fucking worth it."

Drinking deeply, he placed the now empty horn back where it belonged as the pain in his eye lessened. A burning in his blood made itself known as he cried out, though he was too distracted by what was filling his mind to focus on the physical pain. Stepping back, he fell onto his back as he clutched his head. He was back at the misty area, though the mist itself seemed to be falling back as a hooded figure with a spear looked down at him.

"I'll see you again, young Jared," Fundinn said, as Jared suddenly blacked out.

Snapping his eyes open, Jared nearly fell off the couch in a panic. Clutching his temple, he hissed at the massive headache he was experiencing before he stood up. It seemed he'd slept through the rest of the event, since most of the dancers were gone or getting ready to go home.

"I need a drink," he muttered, earning a strange look from some of the others. Maybe they'd forgotten he was there. He felt he'd slept a long time with how stiff he felt. Finding his way, he managed to get to the bar before he realized he was still dressed in his dancing outfit. Fuck it, he wasn't about to go get changed without getting some alcohol in him first.

"Hey, Jared," Davin said, greeting him with a smile. "Sleep well?"

Too tired to argue, Jared simply nodded before tapping the counter with his paw. Davin expertly mixed a drink before sliding it to him; taking a swig, he spat it out into the glass.

"Well... that's a first," Davin said, concern in his eyes. "...Did I mix it wrong? Or maybe you're craving something else..."

Shrugging, Jared smiled apologetically before placing the glass down. Whisking it away, Davin turned back to wait for his order. What did he want, though? He wanted something... sweet? No... something with honey, maybe. To put hairs on a man's chest... though he had more than a few himself.

"Mead," Jared said, and Davin tilted his head. "Please?"

"...Mead, coming right up," Davin said, curious but quick to comply. It took a bit longer, seeing as he had to dig out some things from the bottomless cabinet, but Jared was happy to see the big mug in front of him before too long. It looked perfect.

"Should kill some of that pain you're feeling. You look like you're having a migraine," Davin said, as Jared raised it to his lips. He spared no time in chugging it down, not caring as it dribbled down the sides of his face. As Davin promised, his pain started to fade, and the craving he felt deep down seemed satisfied. Slamming his glass, he winced. He hoped he hadn't broken it.

"Sorry..."

"No, it's fine. Liam told me which dancer you were tonight. You were amazing up there, by the way," Davin said, pointing to the now empty stage. "But tell me what happened. Something did happen, didn't it?"

"...Yeah," Jared said, unable to see out of his right eye. It made sense, seeing as how his eyepatch was there. He told Davin of his dream, and Davin's smile faded as he grew more and more serious. Curious, Davin took a swirl stick and began waving it in front of his face.

"Tell me when you see it," he said. Rolling his eyes, Jared decided to play along. When he finally saw it, he told Davin. "Yeah... I thought so. Jared... I don't know how to say this, but..."

"Hey!" Rodeo said, striding confidently up to Jared. It looked like he was slightly out of breath. Had he jogged over here? "Rune... you forgot this backstage."

"What did I-?" he said, before Rodeo placed it on the counter. Staring down in shock, he reached up with his right hand... it wasn't there. His eye was uncovered... but of course it was. Davin had recognized him immediately. A glamour hid one's identity only while it was worn...

"...Rodeo. Thank you, but... Jared needs some space right now. He's not feeling well..."

"I... sure, boss," Rodeo said, picking up on the sudden tension. "I... just remembered something backstage that needs doing."

"Get to it then," Davin said, helping Rodeo take the out. "Jared, you need to breathe. Calm down, if you can. Focus on my voice."

Jared tried to keep the panic down, looking to Davin as he moved from behind the bar and began guiding him somewhere while continuing to talk to him. He could feel something inside him now, begging to be used and released... was this magic? He remembered more of what he'd seen with the well, and soon images were flying past him before he could fully comprehend them. Coming back to himself, he opened his good eye to see himself in Liam's office. He understood what he had gained now, and smiled.

"You in there, Jared?" Liam asked, cautious. Davin was there too, worry evident in his face.

"I am," Jared said, reaching up to his eye again. Someone had placed his eyepatch on again, though it lacked its glamour now. It felt right, somehow. "What happened?"

"Well, other than you ordering mead in a language I haven't heard in a long while, you kind of started muttering and staring at who knows what after Rodeo left," Davin said, before Liam placed a hand up to silence him.

"How do you feel? Davin told me what happened. What you dreamed."

"I feel... good, but different," Jared said, looking around the office. "As if... all my life I lived in a small pond... but now I am experiencing a vast ocean. How blind I was..."

"You do know what you did, don't you?" Liam asked, and Jared simply nodded. He felt at peace with his decision. If this was what he had gained, then his eye had been such a small sacrifice indeed.

"Fundinn... heh. He has a sense of humor, doesn't he?"

"So Maeryn tells me," Liam sighed, pinching the bridge of his nose. "Well... it can't be helped now. You remember what he said, right?"

"About finishing what I start? I intend to," Jared said, determination in his voice. "Oh. I never did sign that contract, did I?"

"Jared, I think that's the least of our concerns right now..."

"I'm fine, really. Though I get why you're worried," Jared said, rising to his feet. He was steadier than he had been. "My head feels like it's splitting apart, even with that drink Davin made me... but I feel better than I have in a long time. I... sorry I lied to you earlier, Liam. I haven't been taking my medication lately."

"Shit. I have some spare sprays up here, if you need-"

"No. I don't need that anymore," Jared laughed. "I understand now. But that contract...?"

"Oh, right," Liam said, drawing some papers out from a folder. "Here."

"...What do you understand?" Davin asked, as Jared quickly scanned the new contract. He realized he could read much faster now, as well as sense what the contract meant just by a glance. Smiling, he signed it before turning to Davin.

"Many things," Jared said, before turning to leave. Reaching the door, he hesitated for a moment. "Actually, Liam... do you mind if I spend some time in your realm?"

"Sure, I'll get my key and-"

"No need," Jared said, focusing. He could almost see that crossroads in his mind, though this was actual travel. Stepping forward, he phased through the door and into the next world.

"...What the fuck..." Davin said, looking over to Liam for an explanation.

"Ask Maeryn," Liam said, shrugging. "He knows more about this than I do."

*******

Seth looked reluctantly at the Maelstrom; he really didn't want to leave, but he also had a life to get back to. Despite being assured only a day or two had passed on Earth, he had spent more time than he'd meant to as he caught up with daemons he had known and descendants of his old mortal friends. It was jarring, but he supposed it would be something he would have to get used to as a daemon himself. He would outlive mortals, even ones who lived much longer than those on Earth. He was immortal.

"Ready when you are," Dylann said, taking his hand in his. Drawing strength from him, Seth began swimming toward it with the sea-goat, focusing his power on what he would be on the other side. Before too long, they were passing through the Maelstrom and back through a different wall. It was the brick wall outside Deviant Delights.

"Ah... shit, sorry," Seth said, reaching up to fondle his new aquamarine piercing. "I guess I let my mind wander during that..."

"Hey, we made it, it's fine," Dylann said, back in his human form. He was smaller than Seth's wolf form, but he could still sense the immense power of the elder within. "...We can go, if you wish?"

"Yeah, maybe we should..."

The door swung open, and Davin was walking outside as he looked down at his phone. Looking up, he noticed the two before stopping. They stared at each other for a while before Seth sighed and averted his gaze.

"I-I should go," Seth said, feeling very vulnerable. Before he could walk away, he felt Dylann's hand holding him by the wrist.

"I don't know what's going on with you two, but if you keep avoiding each other then you'll accomplish nothing," Dylann said, looking over to Davin. "That goes double for you, Davin. I'm sick of this weird vibe you're all giving off lately."

"I don't answer to you, Dylann," Davin said, turning away. "You wouldn't-"

"I'm sorry I didn't tell you sooner, Davin," Seth said, sighing. "I was a coward. But you have to believe me that I didn't know who he was at first. I didn't mean to hurt you."

"Don't lie to me," Davin said, scowling. "I bet you both had a good laugh about fucking in my bar. Was it exciting for you, Seth? Knowing you were fucking my old boss?"

"...Oh, this is an Orias thing," Dylann said, causing Davin to turn toward him in outrage. Before he could get another word, the door swung open and Jared walked out.

"...Let me guess," Jared said, looking at all three of them as they stared back at him awkwardly. "Orias thing?"

"Fucking hell," Davin said, causing the sabertooth to smile. Seth had to do a double-take; he was wearing an eyepatch that looked familiar to him.

"...Oh, that's interesting," Jared said, tilting his head at Seth. "Did you just come back from your realm, Dylann? I really should visit it sometime... I would love to see how it compares to Liam's. I hear it's beautiful."

"Okay, not that you're getting out of this discussion, but... what is going on with Jared?" Dylann asked Davin, who simply shrugged. "Did he get some cursed item on him?"

"No, that's Rodeo's old eyepatch. You know, from the whole sailor routine you liked so much?" Davin said, teasing despite his discomfort. "Jared's signed a new contract. He'll be dancing for us on Saturdays. Liam was really fucking impressed, and I'm proud of him to boot."

"I'm not the only one making a change, though," Jared said, looking Seth up and down. "But, ah... seems I've interrupted something more serious. Are you two about to fight, or...?"

"Are we?" Seth asked, looking at Davin. The bigger daemon considered for a moment, before visibly relaxing.

"No. Wouldn't want to ruin your new suit," Davin said, crossing his arms as he leaned against the wall. "Where'd you get that anyway? It looks good on you."

"Thought you were mad at me..." Seth said, sighing.

"I am. But I can compliment a man with style, even if he's fucking my enemy behind my back. Though... I guess I can't blame you too much. He was always very persuasive, and you are a new daemon. Of course you'd think with your dick first..."

"I don't have anything against you, Davin, but... I wish you'd tell me the whole story sometime," Seth said, a sad look in his eyes. "Not here, of course, but..."

"...Maybe I'll do that," Davin said, shrugging his shoulders as he looked down at his hooves. "You can... you can have your old job back too, if you want. I won't get in the way."

"No," Seth said, shaking his head. Looking up in surprise, Davin looked him up and down once more. "I'm done dancing for a while. But maybe I'll stop by for a drink every so often. If you're okay with that?"

"...I'm okay with it, but... there really is something different about you, isn't there?" Davin asked, before his eyes rested on Seth's new piercing once again. "...Really? Dylann, did you...?"

"I was just as surprised as you are now," Dylann said, his hands resting in his pockets. "I did nothing to him. It was his doing entirely."

"I believe you, but I still can't wrap my head around it. Seth, flipping Temperance... holy shit."

"It's not exactly uncommon," Jared said, surprising everyone with how easily he said it. Wrapping his arm around Davin's waist, he smiled as he rested his head on his shoulder. "You know that."

"...Okay, now even I'm wondering what happened to Jared. Is he off his meds?" Seth asked, concerned.

"...He doesn't need them anymore, from what he's told us," Davin said, wrapping his own arm around Jared's shoulders. "Though... if you're wondering why he's still wearing his eyepatch off the clock, well..."

"He's lost his vision in that eye, hasn't he?" Dylann asked, a look of recognition on his face.

"What happened?" Seth asked, suddenly alarmed. "Can we fix it or...?"

"Why would I want to fix this?" Jared asked, slightly hostile. "I didn't sacrifice my eye for nothing, you know. But don't worry. I can see so much more now. I don't miss that limited piece of flesh at all."

"...Does Maeryn know?" Dylann asked.

"He knows he's been dreaming. We haven't told him about the eye yet, though I still don't quite get it. Still... he seems a lot happier. And I have to say, the confidence boost is really seductive. Wish I'd followed you into Lust's realm now. After that dance on stage, I just... mmm..."

"Someone's getting excited," Jared said, grabbing Davin's bulge through the fabric of his pants. "Feeling better?"

"Much better," Davin chuckled, before kissing Jared. Dylann and Seth waited for a moment or two before Dylann cleared his throat, causing the two of them to stop their impromptu make-out session. "Ah... sorry. But ah, Seth. If you're willing to flip Temperance of all things, then... maybe I'm... no. I am being too hard on you. You said you didn't know before you started dating him, right? Is that really the truth then?"

"I swear. Though I should have told you when I knew. I just... didn't want you to go to Wrath, is all. You love this bar, but I know you couldn't work here if you were... well, like that. Will you forgive me?"

"...Only if you forgive me. As angry as I am at Orias," Davin spat, the name coming off his lips like venom, "it doesn't give me a reason to be an ass to you. I'll tell you the whole story one of these days. I just... I need time to get my head straight. I really thought he'd never be back. Not that I can fix that now. Liam made us sign shit to 'play nice', remember? Fine by me, if he stays out of my bar. Tell him he's not welcome here."

"I will, but I think he probably knows that already," Seth said, sighing. "Shit. What am I going to tell him about me, though?"

"The truth?" Davin said, as if it was obvious. "What else would you tell him?"

"But if he-"

"Look. If he's into you as much as you're into him, then he'll accept it. If he doesn't, then he wasn't worth it anyway. It's that simple. But look, what's the worst that can happen? He dumps you and you move on with your immortal life?"

"Besides, you still have me," Dylann said, smiling. Seth smiled back, drawing Dylann closer.

"...I think I see how it happened, now," Davin said, smiling. "Don't break his heart, Seth. Or I'll break you."

"...I'll keep that in mind," Seth said, a bit nervous now. Still, he was glad to see that the tension had lifted a bit now. He probably still wouldn't be able to go to the bar for a while, but... he felt like Davin and him could start being friends again. They just needed some time.

"Make sure you tell Liam though," Davin said, starting to walk away with Jared. "It's considered rude among us daemons not to tell your former elder that you've changed aspects. He has a lot on his mind already without finding this out on his own."

"I'll go see him now," Seth sighed, knowing Davin was right. "I'll see you later, Dylann."

"Why? I'll go with you," Dylann said. "Besides, I could use a nightcap."

"...Alright, let's go inside then," Seth said, not caring who saw them together. Nothing could tear them apart, as far as he was concerned.