the need to trust~ [Johann]

trust; noun

The assured reliance on the character, ability, strength, or truth of someone or something

---

The apartment belonging to Amalie West was based in one of the more common streets of Tolgalen. Not exactly an extravagant area, but not poor either. Middle Class at best. It was located on the third floor of your average apartment building. Although it was somewhat dreary looking on the outside, on the inside, it fared much better. Amalie had befitted it with her own personal tastes, a combination of modern-classic décor. With dark wood flooring, and white walls. When you stepped inside of the apartment, you would find her living room. In the centre was a burgundy sofa and matching armchair, placed just over a white faux fur rug. On the faux rug, there was a glass coffee table, which at present hosted a bottle of cherry brandy and a half-empty glass beside it. Across from the sofa was a fireplace and a mantel with various ornaments. To the right-hand corner of the room, there was an arched entryway which led into her kitchen. If you bypassed the arch, you would see a small corridor which would lead to her bedroom, bathroom, and various other rooms. It wasn't a large apartment, but it wasn't cramped either. Around the room, one would find multiple items; Midian style paintings, a Fabergé egg, a crystalised statuette of a ballerina and things of a similar aesthetic. Near the doorway there was a vinyl player, and next to it a stacks of records an assortment of jazz, classical, rhythm and blues. She had a tendency to collect music that she found soothing. There were also shelves, mounted with books, several of them. The books would cover a wide range of topics, assorted in various categories; fiction, non-fiction, genre and the like. The only thing the room seemed to lack was any personal photos; not a single picture was put up anywhere in the apartment. Almost as though it was more of a showroom than a place someone actually lived in.

Amalie lay on her sofa, her bare legs dangling over the arm of the couch. She was wearing what could only be described as pyjamas; some silk navy blue shorts and a matching tank. Her arm rested over her eyes; she was trying to relax a little. Although it wasn't exactly easy these days, her mind had been in quite the disarray since that incident in the Rose Garden Sweet Store. For a start, Johann had found out about her being a vessel to a seal, which wasn't so bad, even Mars's reaction had been acceptable. The problem incidentally lay with Anima. The being that had forced himself into her life without her consent and in a moment of bitter rage had taken over her body. It was completely unacceptable, not only had he forcibly taken control of her body and used her magic but on top of which he had attempted to kill a man. The man had been dangerous, but that didn't mean Amalie planned on killing him. She had only ever done that once, and although she understood it's necessity on certain occasions. She didn't feel that moment warranted it. He not only put someone's life at risk, but he almost lost her everything. What would Johann have said had she killed that man? She would have likely been stripped of her membership as a member of the West Fiore Trading Company. Additionally, with so many witnesses, she could've been arrested for second-degree murder.

The stress of the whole situation had taken its toll on her; she was overcome with even more waves of nausea that kept coming and going at random times. She didn't know how much longer she could deal with this physiological disadvantage if she didn't handle the matter soon. It could essentially put her at risk, what if she was fighting and she suddenly got nauseous and was rendered useless. The result of such an incident could easily result in her death.

And Death really wasn't on her agenda right now.

She moved her arm away from her face, wondering if she should change. She had received a message saying that Johann had wanted to talk to her. But she hadn't been able to bring herself to come to the guild, at least not with her fluctuating sickness. So she had sent over a sealed enveloped with her address on it. It was a bit of a risk, no one in the guild actually knew her real address. She rented a different apartment which is what she had put down as her address when she registered at the guild. The apartment she rested in now was her actual home. It was a little on the overcautious side, but she really didn't want to risk Charles finding out she had joined the West Fiore Trading Company and using that information to find her. She swung her legs over the arm of the chair, and sat up straight, using her right hand she ran it through her hair. Picking up the glass of cherry brandy with her left, she took a hearty swig. She noticed Anima was unusually quiet when she had a drink; she liked that. His silence was better for her because she was done talking to him at this point.  

WC: 892

Amalie's head spun around when she heard the knock at the door, Oh...he's actually here... She thought idly, pushing herself up off the sofa. She made her way to the door; she paused glancing down at herself. She really wasn't appropriately dressed to be dealing with her mentor right now. Her shorts were... rather short, and she was showing quite a bit of skin. She wondered if she should actually get changed, but then that meant making him wait outside the door, which seemed much more counterproductive. I mean... he has seen me naked so... She thought, shrugging, she continued on towards the door. He couldn't imagine that he would actually be concerned with how she was dressed. It wasn't like they were at work or that she was out representing the West Fiore Trading Company. She was in her own home, so it most likely wouldn't matter. She heard him speak, confirming it was him. She reached up, undoing the chain lock. She reached over to the side table by the door, picking up her house keys from the bowl. She unlocked the door and twisted the handle open. Looking up at her mentor as he stood there.

She couldn't help but be slightly surprised that he had actually turned up. She had honestly been doubtful that he would actually turn up, but here he was, standing in front of her apartment door. She smirked, "Guess you learned my name huh?" She said in a teasing tone before nodding her head in a gesture for him to enter. Once he had entered, she closed the door behind him. She didn't lock it, but she did re-clasp the chain. She was still fairly cautious, even if he was now the only person in the whole of Tolgalen who knew where she lived. Even so, she couldn't help her paranoia, that at any moment Charles could burst through those doors to kill her. She glanced over at him, "Do you want a drink?"  She asked, regardless of whether he asked for something. She would indicate next to the left side of the sofa, where she had a stand filled with an assortment of alcohol from Vodka, Whisky, Wines and various others. She liked to keep various options there for days she felt like trying something different. But today she was sticking with her favourite, Cherry Brandy. She moved through the arch into the kitchen, before returning a moment later with a short glass for him.

She would then move to the sofa and plonk herself down, placing the spare glass down on a coaster for him. Reaching for her bottle, she filled it up to the top. Before looking over at him, "So what did you want to talk about?" She asked, figuring it was better to let him go first. She did have things that she wanted to bring up to him, but getting into it, wasn't exactly easy. So she would just let him start, seeing as he had come all this way to talk to her.


WC: 507
Total: 1399

Amalie watched as he proceeded to pour himself a glass of whisky, one of the nicer bottles in her selection. It was intriguing to see that this was the sort of drink enjoyed by her mentor. A little fact, she wouldn't normally learn whilst working with him. She glanced around at his compliment of her apartment, "Thank you, I like to think so," She replied idly, truthfully she took great pride in her home. It was a reflection of how far she'd come, she wanted to feel comfortable here. It was one of the few things she actually invested her pay into, that and her wardrobe, for the most part, she saved the rest. It was still her goal to accumulate as much income as she could after all. But still, the idea of living in a place cold and empty, like the one that Sivvy girl had been living in. It was just something Amalie couldn't fathom. It felt all too nostalgic.

She thought he was about to answer her question, but instead, he would put that on hold. Rather, he would take it upon himself to redirect the conversation. She was somewhat taken about by his question, his voice even hinted at actual concern. She wasn't expecting him to actually care about her health, or perhaps the question was more out of obligation? She couldn't be sure. She sighed, pulling her gaze from his towards her drink. She swirled the glass slightly, watching as the amber liquid spun around the glass. "It seems that... since discovering the existence of Anima, my body has started experiencing moments of nausea and fatigue. The more present he is, the worse it becomes. I've found the only way I can suppress him is through this," She raised her glanced, bringing it to her lips she took a swig. Before lowering the glass to the table for a moment. "But I can't exactly come to work merry now can I?" She sighed, she paused thoughtfully. She could easily stop talking at this point, it was enough information to answer his query. Yet that was a niggling in the back of her mind, a hunch of sorts. Telling her to go on, to offer him more in the hopes that he may have something to offer her in return. In the end, she settled on telling him, after all, would it really be harmful for him to know of her intentions?

"In the meantime, I'm trying to work out the best solution for this little predicament. I'm fairly settled on the need for us to separate, but Anima is...resistant. He will not even entertain the idea, nor will he tell me why." Her words were, more honest than she expected them to be. She had meant to withhold a little bit as she spoke it just felt natural to tell him. After all, he better than anyone understand what Anima was, what it was like to share your body with another being. "Tell me, Johann, do you know if Vessels can separate from their seals?" She asked, raising her ice-blue eyes to his. Her question was sincere.

His follow up question, caused the woman to laugh. "Ah yes, I suppose it is rather odd isn't it." She said, she wondered for a moment how much to tell the man. Something told her, if she did tell him, she would be able to trust him not to talk but still, there was that lingering doubt. "Let's just say, I have a made myself the enemy of a rather dangerous man and until I am strong enough to face him, I need to keep him off my scent. So I am fairly cautious in what people know about me. You are the only person who knows I live here." She explained to him, wondering how he would take to this new information. Would he pry? Or leave it alone?

WC: 653
Total: 2052

The reaction she received from her mentor was surprising to the woman. She did not expect him to be as concerned with her well-being as he appeared to be. In fact, As far as she had worked out, he considered her little more than a colleague. Yet, here he was, checking up on her, and as she explained the details and reasoning behind her condition. He almost seemed somewhat 'bothered' by the news itself. Was it because he too was a vessel for one of these seals? Was this somehow an inconvenience for him? Perhaps he was contemplating how to dismiss her from the West Fiore Trading Company, now that she was seemingly unfit for employment. He didn't remark on the news of her being a target for someone dangerous, instead, he would focus on her the question she had directed at him. As he started with a warning, her right eyebrow would rise, curious as to how he was to continue. It seemed the man knew the answer to her question.

She would watch him as he stood, moving around the chairs to go to the stand to pour himself another drink. He had finished that rather quickly, and would then finish off another. Just how much of a drinker is he? She wondered idly, not that it was worth addressing right now. It didn't matter really, now considering the subject at hand. For a better explanation, he would call of the other being in the room, one whom Amalie had admittedly forgotten about. Following which, Johann would undergo that familiar shift, the white of his left eye turning black, while the iris carried an inhuman red glow. He beamed at the blue-haired woman with a zealous grin, revealing to her rows of sharp, deadly-looking fangs. Her face did not display any obvious reaction,  instead, she nodded at him in greeting. "Mars." She replied, watching his mannerism shift to the personality of the vessel now before her. It was curious to see Johanns body move in such a playful, almost child-like manner. Seeing the man dance from side to side, normally it might have amused her, had the subject not require her full seriousness at present. She froze suddenly as he addressed Anima, waiting in anticipation to see if Anima would react to his greeting. Yet as she waited, she couldn't feel anything. Perhaps he was being purposely quiet based on the subject at hand, or maybe the alcohol was really keeping him subdued. It was at least useful to know that even the presence of another seal couldn't lure him out in this state. Although as she had stated earlier, she couldn't function as a normal member of society if she was constantly merry. Nor did she intend on becoming an alcoholic just for the sake of subduing him.

She would blink for a moment in confusion as she referred to Johann as an 'old man'. From what she assumed he was relatively young, perhaps even around the same age as here. She wondered if she had miscalculated his age, either that or the Seal was younger than she realised. The latter was a possibility, seeing as Amalie didn't actually know much about the length of their existence, but she had assumed they had been around for a while. Based on the information she 'had' manage to grasp on the seven seals and the biblical lore around them. Maybe she was wrong in her estimations. He would ask her if she knew of 'Aegror', to which she shook her head, regardless of which he continue on quickly. Explaining that this was the 'Third seal of the Apocalypse'. Amalie's eyes widened a fraction when the man suddenly jumped onto her sofa, playfully crouching before her and swaying to and fro. She would glance idly at the shoes on his feet, biting the inside of her cheek to refrain from comment. She really wanted to hear this, so scalding him for scuffing her furniture would likely to be unbeneficial to her right now. She returned her gaze to him, listening as he continued. So it seemed this 'Aegror', was a man who abused the power bestowed on him by the seal. So Mars saw fit to get rid of him, tearing the soul from him and causing him an agonizing death. Something the Seal seemed to be quite gleeful about. It was following the deliverance of this information that the Vice President of the West Fiore Trading Company decided to make his return, the man's face would return to its previous state. "Yes, thank you Mars. That was....very informative." She added, she brought her drink to her lips midsentence, knocking back the remainder of the contents. She swallowed the brandy, it was smooth, quite fruity, with a hint of marzipan, but still strong enough to deliver a nice kick.

She reached over to the table, topping up her glass. "I would rather not risk my life to remove him from my being, personally the less risk involved the more it suits me. I have far too much I intend to do before I die." She commented, lowering the bottle back to the coaster. She would reach under the coffee table, pulling out another coasted she placed it on the table. Before turning around in her seat, she would lean over to the stand. Picking up the bottle that Johann seemed to be drinking from, and bringing it over to the table, placing it on the newly available coaster. A means to save him from having to walk around the stand, should he want another top up.

"However, unless I can find a better alternative, I really may have to consider this as an option. For one, I cannot exist in a body that becomes unpredictably nauseous and fatigued at random times. Should you imagine this occurring whilst in battle, the consequences could be fatal. Additionally..."She sighed, leaning back against the sofa, she would lean her head back glancing at the ceiling. "Anima and I are conflicted in other ways... you see that day at Rose Garden. There was a moment that Anima decided to take matters into his own hands, he had decided that the man attacking the shop was a despicable human, who ..." She paused, Should I really be admitting this to him? Based on what Mars had just said, he could full well decide the tear seal away Anima then and there, then she wouldn't even have the opportunity to contemplate the risks or do anything to prepare for them. She could be suffering an agonizing death right on this very couch, just because she had chosen to share this information with her mentor. She eyed him for a moment, her normally stoic face would look uncertain for a moment before finally, she sighed. Speaking once more, "Let's just say, Anima decided to deliver his own...diving justice upon the man. Had it not been for my access to your power, he would  have killed him without my permission." She brought the index finger of her right hand above her glass, running her finger around the edge softly.

"Johann...how do you manage? Sharing a body with another, doesn't it frustrate you? When he...takes control and you can't stop it. I want to be in charge of my own decision, I don't want to go ba..." She stopped herself, she had been able to spill a little too much. To mention how she did not wish to return to the state she used to live in, how she had lived this way for too long and finally felt free. But how could she say that? That led to a secret she wasn't sure she was ready to tell him. Or was she? She wasn't sure, she had already said much more to him that she would have admitted to anyone. Yet, the words came easy, if anything she was struggling to hold it in. It just felt good to talk it out with someone, to get all of it off her chest. She settled down once more, trying to collect her thoughts that had been becoming a little rattled as she spoke, "Whatever my decision, I assure you that I will not make it lightly. Nor do I intend to go down without a fight, no matter how agonizing it may be." She said, the smirk returning to her lips, it was a little cocky even for her. But she genuinely meant it, she wasn't ready to die, she still had some important things to do first.


WC: 1426
Total: 3478

Much to the woman's relief, it seemed as she revealed to him a layer of truth behind the incident at Rose Garden. He did not react in anger but rather with understanding. He made a comment about the relation between her seal and his own, making Amalie's ponder if Johann too had to deal with similar ideology from Mars. This strange mindset of his, Anima seemed to hate that human, just for his life choices. Amalie understood that the seals had a strong connection to the Lord, and had since come to the conclusion that Anima's view of humanity was someone skewed. In some ways she could understand, she wasn't especially fond of humanity. The people she had encountered had often been more cruel than kind, forcing their selfish ways on her regardless of how much misery it caused. But still, to Amalie, this did not determine whether someone had the right to live or die, cause this so-called 'divine being', make such a call on the assumption that they were failing the Lord's expectations? It seemed a little arbitrary to Amalie, but she hadn't really sought to discuss it with Anima really. The less she heard from him the better.

Following her question, he would bring his eyes to meet hers. As he spoke, her eyes would widen slightly upon hearing the revelation that the man she was looking at, the one she had gotten to known as Johann Von Weiss, didn't even belong in that body in the first place. She sensed that this troubled the man a great deal, but unlike her, he had come to terms with his bond to the seal and his role of a vessel. It was probably the first time in a long time that Amalie had actually felt sympathetic towards a person, it was a rare emotion for her. She wanted to say something reassuring but, in truth, she really wasn't good at that. She had never tried to make cheer someone up before, what did one even say at this point?

"Well... at least he didn't make you ugly." She said rather awkwardly, knowing full well this wasn't likely to make him feel better. She sighed, wondering if this was what Mars had meant when he had referred to Johann as 'old man' earlier, just how old was the guy? She pushed the question away, deciding it wasn't important. "I'm ...sorry." She said, shuffling in a slightly uncomfortable manner, "That this happened to you." She added simply. She could only imagine how it might feel, to have your body replaced with something completely alien. It was such a key point of what made you an individual, to have someone else decide that it wasn't good enough and to force such a change. Amalie found herself even more surprised by Johann's tolerance. She didn't know if any more needed to be said, but she decided not to push the matter further.

She was mildly surprised when he steered the conversation back to the comment she had made earlier. For a time, she had assumed he didn't feel it was important enough to address. But it seemed she was wrong, he would not only bring it full circle, but he even offered his own assistance. She eyed him for a moment, reflecting on what it was he was offering. When he used the term friend, she glanced away. That was an 'odd' term for Amalie, she had never understood such a concept. From what she knew, those that claimed to be your 'friend' were usually just keeping you nice in case they needed something. She had been one with many self-proclaimed 'friends' years ago, but she knew those were lies. The moment, words got out about Wyatt's death and the bounty Charles raised on her head. Well, they were quick to turn.

She brought her knees up off the floor, shifting in her spot so that her feet were tucked beneath her. She considered her words carefully, did she want Johann's help on this matter? He was powerful, much more so than her. She knew with his help, her chances of surviving was significantly greater but that meant relying on him even more than she already had. She leaned back in her seat, resting her head against the back of the sofa. "Before I explain this... let me just state. By no means do I expect your help on this matter. In fact, I planned to deal with it myself. But, I guess... I should at least let you know the circumstances." She said returning her gaze to him. "The man after me... is the leader of a rather large and powerful underground organization; A sordid individual of the lowest calibre. In the entire time I knew him, he never displayed an ounce of kindness, he is sadistic and quite enjoys lording his power over others. His business is criminal in every sense of the word. There was a time where I was in a position of trust with him, but I did something unforgivable to him. He will likely not rest until has me, in which case I will most likely endure a gruesome punishment, eventually resulting in my death." She explained. This was a reasonable amount of information, enough so that Johann understood the degree of what she was dealing with. Did she need to add more? She didn't really think so. Still, she found her lips parting once more, to add one more... important detail. "To put our relationship into perspective. I suppose I should tell you; he is my late husband's older brother."

She brought the brandy to her lips and drank quickly. That had been much more than she planned to reveal, after taking her sip and put the glass back on the coaster. Maybe she should slow down, it occurred to her that the alcohol was likely allowing her to be more upfront with Johann than she would be. She was feeling a slight warm buzz from the brandy, how many glasses had she drunk now? Three... four? She normally didn't consume this much in one sitting. But then again she rarely found herself drinking in the company of others, she had a fairly high tolerance for alcohol, but even so, she had consumed quite a bit and fairly quickly too.  

WC: 1026
Total: 4504

The man seemed to accept her sympathy easily, making a remark about it being what fate had intended for him. She didn't like that idea of 'fate' and 'destiny'. It just felt another way of enforcing the concept that one's life wasn't actually theirs to control and manipulate. It was also the same as 'karma', receiving punishment for the sins committed to others or in a previous life. Because if such a theory really did exist, then whoever she had been previously must have been a despicable creature. No, she didn't buy it. Life was cruel because humanity was cruel. Every action made based on the choice or desire of one human created a chain reaction and that reaction no matter how small and insignificant rippled into the life of another. Following which that individuals reaction would create a further ripple effect, spreading further and further into the lives of others into someone unsuspecting and usually undeserving suffered immeasurably for it. Someone or something was always responsible for what happened, but 'fate', no Amalie didn't buy it. Fate felt little more than an excuse.

Johann's shocked made Amalie chuckled, she nodded, "Shocking huh? You're not the first to think so." Perhaps it was a vibe she gave off, but she was often considered unapproachable by the opposite sex. Like she had no interest in 'love' or 'romance'. Even her own mother had told her if she didn't soften up a bit she'd never find herself a good man. She hadn't listened, but Wyatt had approached her anyway. Not that he was what could be considered a 'good man'. It was an assumption she never bothered to correct, and the truth was she did desire companionship. She had tasted what it was like to be loved, even if it had been a toxic type of love. She would be lying if she said she didn't miss it.

Johann expressed his own sympathetic apology. She looked away. Not quite sure how to react, he was expressing care over something she didn't actually regret. It was a brutal truth, but she was glad Wyatt was dead. A part of her had become free because of it, and she cherished that. Even if there were still certain chains pressing down on her. Emotional scarring that would likely bind her for the rest of her life, and then, of course, there was her link to his brother. She would likely never be free of him until he was dead; although she wouldn't miss him either. Her mentor commented further, offering his assistance once more. It was a matter she was uncertain on, the idea of getting another involved was unpleasant to her. She wanted to eradicate it completely on her own, so it didn't follow her when she started a new life. But still, it was the one thing that scared her, the idea of having Johann there to help make it seem a little less terrifying.

His next question causes her to freeze; she brought her gaze to him sharply. She had assumed he would leave it there and not pry further. But alas, he was surprising her once again. Her mind began to whir slightly as she tried to think of something to say. Should she change the subject? or make up some lie? Her normally cold eyes grew slightly sad. She knew what she wanted to say. But it was so fundamental foolish that she couldn't believe she was considering it. Could she really trust him that much?

"I..." She gulped, looking down, she noticed her hands were trembling. She clenched them slightly as a means to control herself; she took a slow breath. Closing her eyes, the words left her lips as though she no longer had the will to stop them. "He wishes to avenge the death of his brother." She explained, opening her eyes she scanned his face for a reaction. She stood up suddenly, moving away from him, she walked over to one of the side tables to the far side of the room. "I threw away everything before I moved to Tolgalen, except this. I guess a part of me anticipated that I might need to... justify my actions for a lesser sentence. Should the authorities ever learn of what I did." She reached into the drawer of the table and pulled out a plastic wallet. She popped it open and returned to the sofa. She sat down on the chair next to the man once more and handed him a collection of papers — specifically, medical reports, pages upon pages of the injuries she had sustained. The list was extensive, covering a vast range of incidents all classed under 'accidents'. Were he to read the list, he would read records of broken bones, gashes, head trauma, severe dehydration and even burns — repetitive occurrences and over the span of many years. Sometimes even requiring major surgery or even cardiac resuscitation.

"One evening, he came home in a ...foul mood. He didn't tell me why. Instead, he immediately took it out on me, and when I ... begged for mercy he just got angrier. He began to suffocate me; I don't know if he planned to stop but...I snapped." She turned, it was too real saying all of this out loud. She didn't know how to face the man, never had she imagined she would admit this to anyone. But here she was, telling Johann everything. She brought a hand to her head, running her fingers through her hair, she took a deep breath and exhaled shakily. This was all very intense even for her. Not only that, she wasn't sure how Johann was going to react. "I imagine having a 'husband killer' in the ranks of the West Fiore Trading Company isn't exactly appropriate huh? If you say so, I will leave. I'll just need a week to relocate." She told him earnestly. She was saying this, but she still didn't know his feelings on the matter, for all she knew, he would arrest her and have her locked away regardless. Although a small part of her hoped, that based on her estimation of the man, that he would at least give her a chance to flee.


WC: 1,042
Amalie's Total: 5,546
Overall Total: 9,835

She needed to reel it in; she had been getting far too emotional for her liking. Telling him this much had been more than enough, she didn't want to lose her composure any more than she already had. She didn't like it. She certainly had grown more comfortable around the man, but with the combination of alcohol and a little more honesty than she had anticipated. She had basically exposed her secrets to him entirely; she had pretty much hadn't him them bullets if he wanted to her could ruin her. It was odd for her to open up so willingly. It wasn't as though this was the first time she'd consumed this much alcohol in the presence of others. Yet, even so, she hadn't said a word about her secrets. Just when had she grown comfortable enough in the presence of her mentor to herself at such risk? She straightened up slightly, trying to appear less troubled. Even if she had come to trust him enough to tell him this much about herself, she didn't like becoming so vulnerable to him. She eyed his face; it didn't reveal more than she expected. Shock, and then, well he was still. She couldn't read him, and she didn't know what else to say. She just waited, trying to prepare herself for the dismissal that was like to come.

Suddenly he was standing, his hand touching her shoulder lightly. She rose her eyes to his, listening to him and he began to reassure her that her assumption was for nought. He made a curious comment about the West Fiore Trading Company's members. Amalie was surprised by this, did he mean what she thought he did. Was the company somehow not as a clean cut as she thought, was there something she didn't know. However, he stopped himself, as though contemplating what to say. He continued on to express his understanding, the more he spoke, the more her body would relax. So she didn't have to leave the West Fiore Trading Company. To say it was a relief was an understatement. The idea of going on the run once more was something had been prepared for since she moved. Even so, it was the least favourable prospect. Having to uproot, to leave everything she'd built behind. It was a disheartening outcome she was glad to have avoided. She eyed her mentor, taking a moment to consider her response.

"Thank you, I appreciate your understanding. " She said simply. It really didn't any more elaboration than that. If Johann decided that her actions were within reason, then she saw no point in fighting it. After all, this was what she had hoped for really, that he would accept her actions as a result of self-defence. In order to preserve her own life, she had taken Wyatt's. That was it. There was no planning, no pre-emptive decision to kill him. It had been as she had told him, she just 'snapped'. She couldn't even really recall deciding to cast the spell; her body had moved on its own. The next thing she knew, every piece of glass in the house shattered, The windows, the ornaments, even the glasses in the cupboards; They had shattered. Each piece soaring towards him to fast for him to protect himself. He hadn't stood a chance. She could still hear his final words echoing in her mind even now.

He apologised once more; she sat quietly for a moment. This apology wasn't like the last; the last apology had been aimed at something she wasn't sorry for. Whereas this, well this had been quite impactful, even on a cold-hearted woman as herself. She felt a small tug on her emotions; she reached forward and picked up the glass. She took another hearty gulp. She could barely taste the alcohol anymore. Its flavour had almost blended away with how much she consumed at this point.  It seemed to do the trick, the moment slithered away as quickly as it had come. She would not fall apart in front of this man, that would be too much for her to come back from. She lowered the glass, clearing her throat. She shook her head, before returning his ice-blue eyes to his.

"It's ok," She said softly, "It was a time when I was weak, weak to a man but I am stronger now. I made a vow to myself; a vow never to allow myself to succumb to such weakness again. " She meant every word. Initially, the shock of killing Wyatt and fleeing for her life had left her in shock. Yet, a little while after her separation from the Corvin family, Amalie realised she was finally free. Free to aspire to her own goals. If she continued to run from Charles, then she would end up as nothing, either that or he would eventually catch her, and she would be as good as dead anyway.  She needed to grow strong enough so that she could face him and survive. On top of this, she could finally chase the dreams she truly sought. Dreams everyone else seemed to want to suppress.

"That's quite enough about me," She said, although there wasn't much more to tell the man. Unless she divulged the struggles, she had needed to face before even Wyatt. Although it was a particularly less sore subject, it wasn't something she fancied getting into. She had told him about Wyatt because of the consequence of her killing a man could have brought trouble to the West Fiore Trading Company. But, her childhood would not influence that, and therefore it was not up for discussion. She could feel herself regaining her composure, her shell returning a little, although completely. "I thought you had something you wished to discuss with me?" She remarked, having recalled the original purpose of their meeting. It had been pushed aside to discuss her situation. She could only assume that it was fairly important, for him to have come all this way.


WC: 1,006
Amalie's Total: 6,552
Overall Total: 11,867

Now that the conversation was moving away from the unpleasant history of Amalie's relationship with Wyatt and the consequences of its end, the woman felt herself relax a little more. She doubted they would revisit the conversation, at least not anytime soon. Johann knew what he needed to, and more for that matter. She doubted it would be brought up again unless something came up that was related to Charles. Which hopefully, with all the precaution she was taking in hiding where she was. That wouldn't happen for a reasonable amount of time. Albeit still cautious, she had grown slightly less paranoid than when she had first moved to the area. A small part of her hoped that Charles would grow tired of chasing her, although she doubted it. The man was like a dog with a bone, and in the end, he usually got what he wanted.

As she waited for the man's answer to her question. She would eye his face curiously, it seemed like, whatever it was he had planned to tell her, wasn't an easy subject to bring up. He would fill up another glass, she was surprised by his ability to handle his alcohol. Meanwhile, the blue-haired woman felt herself moving a little way further down the route of merry. Even her cheeks were becoming a little flushed, and her buddy felt really warm, even though she was only wearing shorts and a tank top, both of which were quite thin material. she slouched against the sofa slightly, watching him as he finally began to tell her the reasoning behind his visit. Mentioning the letter from the Magic Council, and the way they had addressed him. H seemed to glaze over some details, before bringing it round to explain that the Magic Council had an issue with his employment in the West Fiore Trading Company. Her eyes would narrow slightly, displeased by the news. Who were they to decide where the man worked? She didn't like this at all and felt it wasn't going anywhere good.

When he mentioned them taking action against the guild, the woman sat up once more.  Her expression still sour, talking about the danger the guild would fall under. She almost commented at that point but stopped herself as he continued. She had been about to say 'Let them come'. Although if the God of Ishgar, as strong as he was, was saying the guild would fall under an attack from such a force. As much as it displeased her, she accepted it as the truth.  As he looked up, she caught his gaze. As he uttered his decision. The woman's ice-blue eyes would widen slightly, her mouth dropping open slightly.

This bothered her. A lot.

From what she could understand, the man who she had just poured all of her secrets to, was going to be disappearing. Admittedly, she hadn't known the man long, but he had been there since she first arrived at the West Fiore Trading Company, and for near enough most of her growth since. He had trained her, aided her, even accepted her for the sin she committed and now he was going to vanish. His final remark would snap her out of her thoughts. Pulling her back into the situation, he was going to leave. She shook her head slowly, "No..." She said in disbelief. She moved suddenly, closing the distance between them on the sofa, so she was now sat next to him, moving so that she was resting on her knees. "Johann... you can't..." She stopped herself, realising this was foolish. He really could. Of course, he could leave, it was his choice. Besides, he was doing it for the West Fiore Trading Company. She swallowed her words, sinking down a little. She didn't know what to say, she rattled her brain. A part of her was telling her she shouldn't care this much, he was just another colleague. Yet there was something else, maybe it was that term he had used 'friend'. Perhaps there was more stock to that term than she was willing to admit. And maybe, she had grown a little more fond of the silver-haired man than she initially realised.

"Fine. If that's your decision, I understand. But they intend you to lead a guild right?" She said, sitting back a little, composing herself a little. "Pretty sure it's going to need members," She told him in a determined tone. "Besides, you just promised me if I needed your help with my situation that you would aid me. How can I possibly get you to help me if I don't keep you around." She leaned in a little closer, moving in such a way that her face was now only a few inches from his. God of Ishgar he may be, she had no qualms about telling him straight, especially with all the alcohol fueling her right now. "Don't think you can tell me 'no' either, I'm coming with you whether you like it or not." She said, reaching over and poking him firmly in the chest, despite her stern tone, she smiled at the man before continuing in a much softer tone.

"Johann, It takes a lot for me to open up to someone, I told you about myself because I've decided to trust you with ... well, let's be honest here, with my life. Do you know how many other people can say they have that privilege? None. Finally being able to be open and trust someone after so very long. It feels pretty nice." She brought her hands together on her lap, leaning back once more. Sighing before she continued,  "And If I'm... unbearably honest... I'd rather not lose that."


WC: 949
Amalie's Total: 7,501
Overall Total: 13,728

Amalie eyed the man as he responded her approach, he seemed a little uncomfortable, perhaps a little flustered. She eyed him with her merry gaze, curiousity growing. Was it that he found her repulsive? Or was there some other reason he didn't appear to appreciate her proximity. It wasn't the first time either, she'd noticed it before when she had kissed him on the cheek. Maybe, he didn't appreciate her touch. But why... She thought, almost pouting at the thought. Her slightly intoxicated mindset wasn't satisfied with this. She wanted to have this justified, she was about to say something but he spoke. Pulling her back to the conversation, reminded her that she was talking to him about something serious right now.

He thanked her and promised not to betray her. There was still a part of her consciousness that would have thought the desire to believe such a promise. Insecurity chirping away, telling her not to trust anyone. But it was heavily quietened by the alcohol she had consumed. "Glad to hear it," She said, her face returning to it's usual smirk.  He pulled her attention when he spoke again, asking her why it was that she had chosen to trust him. She paused thoughtfully, making a 'hmmm' sound. She chuckled, meeting his gaze. "It's hard to explain. I guess, there's just something about you. My gut tells me if I trust you, I'll find what I'm looking for." She said she bit her lip, there was something else. A thought that trickled through her mind. She took a moment to consider, whether she should comment further. It certainly was another risk, a secret she hadn't quite decided on whether to spill.

Yet she reached over and began idly playing with his tie. She wasn't sure why, but she just felt like doing something with her hands, it was almost like a nervous twitch. Although her exterior seemed composed, she felt a little anxious as she began to speak. "This may be a little... inappropriate but seeing as honesty is tonight's theme. I also think..." She took a breath, trying to figure out how to work her next comment. "That it may have something to do with... how drawn I am to you." Her voice became soft once more, laced with a new meaning. She brought her eyes to his, examining his face to see if he was grasping what she meant, and how he felt about it. She moved in slightly more, her eyes narrowed slightly, her voice a little more than a whisper. "I guess you could say there's something I've been curious about for a while..."

It was something the woman had considered, although not allowed herself to think over excessively. He was technically, her boss after all. But it didn't mean she had thought about it, what it might be like. Ever since that day at Rose Garden, Anima hadn't been the only thing that plagued her thoughts. Much to the Seals thorough disapproval. She would wait, it certainly was a conversation worth having. She had prepared herself for the possible dismissal she would receive, after all, she couldn't exactly get a read on him. It was a little frustrating, most men were obvious about their intentions towards the woman. But Johann kept it strictly professional, perhaps that was what added to the allure. Either way, she was taking a bit of a risk, but with alcohol came courage and seeing as she was about to follow him down a new career path. It seemed like the best time to find out, so if need be. She could move on without issue. But she couldn't think about that right now.

Because right now, all she cared about, was his reaction.


WC: 627
Amalie's Total: 8128
Overall Total: 15,280

As she observed his expression, Amalie eyed the slight changes in his atmosphere. These small signals, the once she had yet to witness, had been what she'd wanted to see. The fact that the God of Ishgar was blushing because of her. Well, it was actually making him more appealing to the blue haired woman. Perhaps her theories had been wrong, was it really just that this man was shy. It was an attractive concept. Having only ever surrounded herself with cocky men of extreme arrogance. To see such behaviour, from someone so... impressive in nature. Only prove to stimulate her wanting further. She would run her fingers along the length of the tie, before moving them back to the top and repeating the process.

Eying him with a teasing gaze, she listened as he attempted to dismiss her. Blaming the alcohol, and whilst it was true that the alcohol was playing its part. It was certainly not the reasoning behind her actions. She could see what he might think it so after all this was the first time she had chosen to be so direct with him. All their earlier interactions had only involved 'light' flirting at most. Mainly because she respects him as her mentor. But technically, she wasn't his mentee anymore and frankly the woman had gone over it enough to know that she wouldn't be satisfied unless she knew. "I understand why you might assume that, but I can assure you, tonight isn't the first time I've indulged in such temptings thoughts." She told him, hoping to rid him of any doubt She didn't want to be refused of what she wanted over something as petty as a little merriment. As he turned to her, she felt a slight shift in the air, her uncertainty faded away as he spoke. Her eyes lit up slightly, it was thrilling, she felt as though her body was coursing with adrenaline. The way she was reading the situation, was that Amalie's little risk may have paid off. She hadn't anticipated such an interesting reaction from the man. Perhaps, things were going her way, although there was really on one way to find out.

"An explanation huh?" She repeated thoughtfully, a coy smile on her lips. She took a moment to consider what would be the best way to convey such a thing. She could very well explain it to him if she wanted. But then again, the saying was, that actions spoke louder than words. So she decided that was what she would do. She moved, shifting her weight on her left leg. She would climb over him, sitting herself on his lap, straddling him. She moved her right hand up his tie, she hooked her finger over the knot, loosening it slightly. Before pulling the tie towards her, moving in to close the distance between them. "Will this suffice?" She whispered breathily, before leaning in. Her eyes would close and she would press her lips against his. Kissing him softly.



WC: 504
Amalie's Total: 8,632
Overall Total: 16,476

The risk had most definitely been worth it.

Even Amalie hadn't been certain that he would accept the kiss. He wasn't an easy man to read, and before this moment, in particular, she hadn't been able to pick up on any 'interest' signals of his. There was perhaps mild flirting at most, but not enough for her to predict how he would behave from such an advance. Which was mainly why she hadn't push until now, that and the fact he was her mentor. But he wasn't her mentor right now, not really at least. They were both leaving the West Fiore Trading Company, and with what would happen in this new guild. Well, that was a discussion for later.

She would feel his fingers wrapping around her waist, arching slightly at his touch. He would reciprocate her kiss, which would only to encourage the notion that he too, wanted this. She would move her hands from his tie and wrapped them around his neck. Pulling her body closer to his, enjoying the feel of him against her. She could feel herself getting lost in the moment, the feel of his hands on her, the movement of his lips against hers. She would deepen the kiss, wanting more of him. It had been so long since she had felt this kind of intimacy, and her latent desire was clouding her mind completely. Any walls of hers were melting away into nothing.

"Johann..." She would say between kisses, "Please." Her voice laced with need. She pulled away from the kiss, a little breathless. She would reach down, her fingers gripping the edge of her silk navy tank top. She would lift it up over her head to reveal the navy lace bra she had underneath, allowing it to drop onto the floor. She would return to meet his lips once more, but with a little more passion behind the kiss, her fingers moving to his tie. She would loosen it completely, before beginning to work at the buttons of his shirt. At this point, her mind was focused on nothing but him. Her lust taking over completely, now that she was in this moment, she couldn't get enough.


WC: 368
Amalie's Total: 9,000
Overall Total: 17,292

Perhaps it was because it had been so long since the woman had done anything like this, or maybe it was the fact that she had been fantasising about such an experience for such a time that for it to become reality was thrilling to her. But Amalie couldn't get enough of him. Moving her lips against his with a fiery passion that only reflected her desire. She felt him sit up, using his strong grip to keep her in place as he removed his suit jacket, all the while she unbuttoned his shirt quickly. She pushed the shirt open, revealing to her once more his lean, muscular form. It was an exquisite as she remembered from what she'd witnessed during their job in the Celestial Sanctum. Except now, she got to see it up close, and enjoy it at her leisure. He peeled it away completely so that they were both now topless. She ran her fingers over his chest delicately, enjoying the feel of it. There was something about the heat of the moment, every part of him was taking over her senses entirely. She felt his fingers stroke her skin as one of his hands move to her hips. She allow a slight moan to pass her lips, aching for more of his touch. She would move back slightly to give herself room, her right hand trailing down his chest. The tips of her fingers teasing him, and she brought them lower, stroking his abs for a moment. The  continuing their journey down, before finally reaching the belt of his trousers...


The light peeked through the gap of Amalie's bedroom curtains, the small stream of light illuminating the room. It was quite a fair sized room, to the opposite wall of the window there was a dark wooden, wardrobe fitting with double doors and a body length mirror. In the centre of the room was a large, king size bed, with a leather bed frame. On either side sat mahogany tables, and to the foot of the bed and matching ottoman. In the bed, Amalie was curled up comfortably next to a sleeping Johann. She was dozing comfortably after what had been quite a long night. As the stream of light moved across the room with the rise of the sun outside the window, it would shine over Amalie's face. The light gleaming behind her closed eyelids, waking her slowly. She pulled open her eyes, blinking sleepily. She had been lying on her side, her right arm and thigh resting over the warm body of the man next to her. She shifted the arm beneath her, so she could prop herself up on her elbow. As she looked over Johanns sleeping form, she found herself smiling softly, biting her lip as she recalled what had happened last night.

When she had invited him into her home, she hadn't anticipated that it would take such a thrilling turn. They had engaged in such a serious conversation, one that involved her spilling pretty much the majority of her secrets and him confessing that he would be leaving the West Fiore Trading Company on the order of the Magic Council. Following which, after expressing her sincere loyalty things had taken a rather...exciting turn. It had been by far, one of the best experiences of the women life. She had needed to take the lead in certain ways..., but Johann had been more willing to reciprocate. Not to mention, the man literally had the stamina of a god. Needless to say, the woman had been satisfied thoroughly during the night's events. But even so, as she eyed his sleeping form, even now she had the urge for more. She doubted that he wouldn't mind if she woke him in such a way.

Still, she decided against it for now, moving her arm and leg away gently. She slid off of the bed, climbing to her feet. She moved out of the room, not phased that she was wandering her home in nude. She moved through her living, and into the kitchen. Her head was surprisingly clear, considering how much she had drank. She reached up into the glassware cabinet, pulling out two glasses. Following which she would move to her fridge and pull from it a carton of cold orange juice. Pouring the juice into each of the glasses, she would grab one. Bringing it to her lips, she would drain the contents quickly. Licking her lips and she returned the now empty glass to the counter. She picked up the second glass and returned to the bedroom, she treaded lightly so as to not wake him. She moved around the bed and placed the glass down on a coaster. Before straightening up, she gazed over him once more. God, he's handsome... She thought to herself, she could not but grin, before reaching into the drawer. She pulled out a pen and a sticky note. Plucking off a page, she would write him a message. Sticking it against the orange juice, before returning the sticky pad and pen to the drawer.

Drink this, then meet me in the shower.

It would read in Amalie's smooth italic handwriting. Amalie made her way out of the bedroom, to the bathroom. Perhaps he may not join her, maybe he would decide against it. Although after last night, she certainly hoped that she would get to enjoy him a little more before he left. Perhaps just once. Because who knew where they would stand after this, she wasn't really sure. And she didn't expect anything from the man, after all, he had a lot going on and only more in the future. A girl can only hope... Amalie thought to herself as she made her way to her bathroom. She turned on the shower, allowing it a moment to heat up as she brushed her teeth. Wanting to rid herself of the alcohol taste that lingered on her breathe. Once done, she climbed into the shower, relaxing under the blissful heat of the warm water as it fell over her body.



WC: 1,016
Amalie's Total: 10,016
Overall Total: 18,851