-closed starter for Aspen @morsreliqua Revo Row, the Outerworld; mid morning
A lot had happened lately.
That’s what he reminded himself every time his mind raced or his emotions bubbled up. They made no sense, but feelings never did when they ran so deep. He was learning that with a certainty he’d never experienced before in more than three centuries of life. Was that the effect a single person could have on him because of a dazzling smile—even the shy ones—and kindness that knew no limits?
That wasn’t entirely fair, though. Saylor wasn’t just that, she was so much that she was becoming everything. And that was dangerous. He’d arrived in Calamity with goals and a mask, and now he was disoriented and emotionally naked.
The need to clear his mind and rearrange his plans of vengeance led him away from everything that was starting to feel comfortable. His borrowed feet took him to the Outerworld, to the lines of decrepit buildings and battle ruins that were once home to many. The air tasted like dust and stains of old blood. The wind cut through the grey blocks like a blade, and yet his mind felt at ease. It was so different from the muffled peace he felt underwater, but he’d spent so much time on the surface that he wasn’t sure where he truly belonged anymore.
Stopping in front of what could’ve been a bookshop once, he observed the mess inside past the blasted window. Rows of shelves lined the otherwise empty space, remains of inked paper and glass were scattered across the splintered floorboards. It looked apocalyptic. And tempting.
Quietly, he stepped inside to observe and, with any luck, find any forgotten tomes that hadn’t been completely destroyed or rescued yet. It was as he turned around one of the shelves that he heard a noise, shuffling and crunching coming from the back of the shop. He went completely still, slowly reaching for the water pouch at his waist.
“Why don’t you show yourself slowly, mate?” Adrian raised his voice, cautious yet authoritative. “We can go our different ways without spilling blood.”













