Nyaogi held the finished potion, ready to take it to Kairo. The tavern’s back door opening screeched upstairs. The sound of light steps quickened Nyaogi's pulse. She paused, listening, then composed herself and descended toward the tavern.

Before Nyaogi could make it, Linai moved into her path.

"Linai!" Nyaogi whispered. "What are you doing here?"

Nyaogi stood firm.

"I didn't want any trouble." Linai's voice was low, tinged with resignation.

"You've caused it," Nyaogi said. "Where's Kairo? He should hear this."

Linai winced. "About using kynik crystals? I don't misuse them. I just enhance the drinks."

"He knows. But why come back? You've made a mess."

Linai said, "In Core City, my 'magic' drinks attracted too much notice. I had to leave."

"And you chose here because...?"

"I thought I'd attract less attention. Maybe avoid using magic."

Stolen story; please report.

“Or a bunch of fools in a little town wouldn’t notice?”

Linai didn’t make eye contact. “Maybe.”

"And how's that working?" Nyaogi asked.

Linai hesitated, then admitted, "I'm not much of a bartender without the magic."

“Clearly.”

"I didn't mean to cause trouble," Linai said, her eyes meeting Nyaogi's. "I thought I could start new here, away from the fear of being discovered."

She recognized the fear and resignation in Linai's voice, understanding the desire to escape the past and its consequences. Nyaogi realized the need for caution, considering the inn's safety and the sanctuary it provided for people like Linai. People like her.

"When the inspector arrived, I panicked," Linai whispered. " I didn’t want trouble for me or anyone else."

Nyaogi saw real fear and remorse in Linai's eyes as she spoke.

Linai said, "I knew running away wasn't right. I couldn't leave you to deal with my mess. That's why I came back."

"Linai, your skills are special but could be misunderstood," Nyaogi said. "Maybe we can work together discreetly."

Hope flickered in Linai's expression.

#

In the tavern's stillness, Nyaogi felt a bond with Linai. Her story, fears, and return struck a chord with Nyaogi, reminding her of her own past and the support Kairo had given her. This reflection bolstered her belief in empathy and second chances.

Kairo’s understanding and support had always created a haven at the inn. She recognized his appreciation for trust and transparency, which could be crucial now.

"Linai," Nyaogi said, "we need to tell Kairo everything. About your abilities and your predicament. He's been understanding before."

Linai, apprehensive, absorbed Nyaogi's words. “Is it a good idea?”

"I understand your fear," Nyaogi said.

Linai inhaled deeply. "You're right," she said, her voice firmer. "Hiding hasn't helped.”

“Right,” Nyaogi said. She looked upstairs. “Well, actually, on that note, I need some help hiding some stuff.”