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A Chance To Start

This piece from Marsel-Defender in September of 2023 served as the perfect vehicle to an addendum for In Captivity. I wish I did a better job at sprucing up the dialog with more detail, but I’m willing to bet this is one of those posts I wrote in hurry.

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“Now that you’re officially free, what are your plans?”

“Support my partner. Volpes and I have been through much together, and now that my feelings are mine I intend to stand by him.”

“Then you’ll remain in the city?”

“For a time.”

“In that case, might you consider taking on some work for the Rangers? We could always use someone of your talents.”

“Ranger work? That’s almost nostalgic.”

“Then you’re interested?”

“I’ll think about it. I have a lot to think about.”

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After their conversation, the Great Detective Enigma told the newly freed titan of a place, high up in the mountains just outside the city, where only the boldest and bravest of the city dare trek. If one was looking for a place to think, there would be no better place than that, for it is also home to one of the most scenic overlooks, giving a full view of Magistrum City.

The events of the past few months: Getting caught, captured, cured. Seeing his son for the first time in a decade. Realizing for the first time how horrific his decisions had been in that regard. It all coursed through his mind like a tidal wave.

He had much to do, and much to make up for. Reaching the mountain tops, feeling the bitter cold as it nonetheless failed to chill his titan blood, Azurium sat on his knees, closed his eyes, and began to meditate.

The tidal wave began to quiet, funneling itself into a steady stream. The large tigerkin’s mind emptied, the stream running through it without gaining purchase. And in the process, Bartholomew realized that by working here at the Magistrum, allowing himself to once more lay down roots, he might not be able to mend the damage he had done. But he might give himself a chance to start.

“Ranger work, huh? Suits me just fine.”