Chapter Forty-Two
The Spirit Tree
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Sheesh! Three years already, huh?” Awkwardly, I shuffled myself on the couch. I couldn’t believe it had been three years. Three years since I was basically unalived - I hardly remembered what happened. I just know a lot of darkness went through my head, and watching my birth mother hurt in front of me. That would probably stick with me the rest of my life - the first time I’ve ever seen anyone like that get so… Well, unalived.
“I am glad to see this worked out for the best, though,” Yushin commented, giving a soft smile as his messy blue and silver hair got pulled up behind his head - into a man-bun ponytail.
“You and me both,” I said as I dusted off one of the books that were crushed into the couch.
“Good to know you haven’t changed either. Except for the marking on your arm - which I assume the one on your side was changed too,” The Spirit Walker then looked up at Kurai as he leaned back on the couch, a hint of satisfaction in his gaze. “Congrats, Kurai, you oughta be proud of yourself!” He said with a bright smile.
Yushin was as passive-aggressive as always with him. I swear, these two were like fire and ice; they hated each other, it seems. I felt at ease with him, though. Something about his presence. Maybe it was because he is a Spirit Walker, and he’s been around for as long as I have. Perhaps a bit longer - he said he used to work with my mother, but how did he become a Spirit Walker? Was he similar to Yuna, made from my mother’s blood?
“Have... Um, you heard from Yuna?” I questioned quietly.
“Yuna…” His voice dropped as a small, sad smile appeared, his eyes drooping. “I’ve only heard how she was doing through Mati. He can commune with her and say she’s safe - that’s good for me. The Celestials… They use the Spirit Wolf to help them guide souls - sometimes. Sure, they want their control over my Spirits… Err, our spirits, but she’s doing well.”
“As long as she’s safe,” I commented, letting out a restful sigh.
I hated that the creation from my mother was still being used by the Celestials rather than having her in the Underworld, chasing souls that decide to run. Perhaps that’s what she’s doing in the Celestial World, I just hope she was safe. Maybe I’ll get to meet her. Yushin was a lot more calmer when it came to Yuna now - he wasn’t pushing me for questions and answers anymore.
“Ah, nevertheless, Snow. The Celestials have given me more jobs to pass the year as a Spirit Walker - I’m seeing more souls come to the Underworld now. I wish for us to be in full control of Souls, but… This is acceptable,” Yushin said awkwardly.
He was a bit troubled, and I knew he was. “Is it still your same soul guiding as usual?” I questioned.
“Similar - I don’t get to visit all thirteen portals, but I was allowed to visit two of thirteen! But!” He paused as he stood back up and offered me a hand off the couch. “I think we need to get you into the field soon! With me, of course!”
Hesitantly, I took his hand, and he whooshed me off the couch. “Wouldn’t that be fun?” I asked.
Kurai coughed in the corner and asked, “Can that… Maybe wait?”
“Um. No? I’ve been waiting three years to bring her into her position and train her,” Yushin said, avoiding Kurai’s gaze as he ensured I didn’t topple over on the few books left. “Not everyone could run off and train for three years while Mundus and Enoxon roamed freely.”
“Run off?” Kurai questioned him, crossing his arms as his gaze turned cold. “I’m the only reason Snow can start her training.” He grumbled.
“You’re also the same reason she was put off in the stasis for three years when we all knew you could do it from the get-go,” He argued, glancing over his shoulder at him. I could see Yushin was having a great time pushing Kurai - just to bother him.
"You don't understand anything, Yushin," Kurai snapped, his amber eyes blazing. "While you were out flaunting in the fields, guiding souls, and picking flowers, I was busting my ass to achieve this!"
Yushin chuckled softly, his silver and blue-streaked hair catching the light. "A Spirit Walker does not simply flaunt, Kurai," he said playfully, glancing at me with a warm smile. "Come along, M'lady!"
I saw Kurai's expression—an intense mix of jealousy and hurt. Offering him a reassuring smile, I hoped to convey that I appreciated his efforts just as much. Reluctantly turning away, I followed Yushin out of the cottage and into the softly glowing night.
The luminescent mushrooms and plants cast a gentle light over the area, complemented by a few strategically placed candles. In the clearing outside the cottages, Yushin led me down a hidden path, the overhanging tree limbs creating an almost magical canopy above us.
"Snow, I'd like to show you something, if you would, please?" Yushin said, stopping before a strange wall with his hand stretched to me. His silver and blue-streaked hair glimmered in the soft light. "As a Reaper, it's important for you to see this. There are several hidden areas here in the Reaper's Grove, and I want to show you which one is which and why they hold significance to the Reaper."
He paused, his eyes twinkling with excitement. "I want to first show you the Soul Tree. Only you and I can access this area. It's kind of like a map, almost," he explained. "Of course, you've seen your room and living spaces that Mati and I graciously set up for you," he added with a proud grin. "If it's not your liking, I'll be happy to change things for you, okay? So, take my hand, and I'll lead you to the Soul Tree."
Yushin's playful yet sincere demeanor was reassuring. However, he turned to Kurai with a mischievous glint in his eyes. "And no, Kurai, you cannot come. You won't be able to pass the gates to it."
Kurai's amber eyes flared with a mix of irritation and resignation. He crossed his arms, clearly displeased but understanding the boundaries. "Fine. Just make sure she stays safe," he grumbled, his protective nature shining through despite his frustration.
I gave Kurai a reassuring smile before taking Yushin's hand. "I'll be okay, Kurai," I said softly. "Yushin will take good care of me." I glanced at Kurai, seeing his anger. Go get some rest, I told him with a small smile, waving to the Nogitsune.
If he tries anything weird, I’ll tear him limb to limb, ok?
With that, Yushin led me past the strange wall and into the hidden realm of the Soul Tree, leaving Kurai behind to brood in the softly lit clearing.
As Yushin led me through the hidden passage, the air seemed to mystify me. We emerged into a serene, secluded grove where the Soul Tree stood in majestic glory. Its leaves glowed with soft, ethereal light, and the air was filled with a gentle hum as if the tree itself was alive with whispers of the souls it guarded.
"Welcome to the Soul Tree, Snow," Yushin said, his voice reverent. "This tree is the heart of the Reaper's Grove. It connects us to the souls we guide and helps us understand their journeys. Each leaf represents a soul; through the tree, we can feel their essence."
He gently guided my hand to touch one of the glowing leaves. As my fingers brushed against it, a warm sensation filled my mind with fleeting images and emotions. It was as if I could glimpse into the soul's past and feel its presence.
"The Soul Tree not only helps us guide souls but also strengthens our bond with them," Yushin continued, his eyes filled with empathy. "This connection is what makes us effective Reaper Guides. It's a sacred duty to honor and protect these souls."
I looked up at the tree, feeling a deep sense of awe and responsibility. "It's beautiful," I whispered, overwhelmed by the magnitude of the task ahead.
Yushin smiled warmly. "It is, isn't it? And it's a reminder of the importance of our role. I’d like to talk a little more about the tree, though,” He said, bringing me to a flat platform near the tree. “Come have a seat.”
We settled down on the platform, the soft glow of the Soul Tree casting a calming light around us. Yushin's demeanor shifted slightly from playful to severe, his eyes reflecting the gravity of what he was about to share.
"The Soul Tree is not just a tool for guiding souls," he began, his voice gentle but firm. "It's also a place of refuge and healing for Reapers like us. When our responsibilities are too heavy, the tree provides solace and strength. It's as if it understands our burdens and offers its presence to lighten the load."
I listened intently, absorbing his words. The tree's gentle hum resonated with the essence of my being, offering a sense of peace I hadn't realized I needed.
"There are times when you'll feel overwhelmed, Snow," Yushin continued, his expression filled with empathy. "Guiding souls is a noble but heavy task. The Soul Tree can help you find balance and clarity. Whenever you feel lost or burdened, come here and let the tree's energy rejuvenate you."
I tried to remember the name, but it wasn’t sticking. "The Grove of something," I said, my brow furrowed in concentration.
"The Grove of Echoes," Yushin replied, his gaze locked on the tree as he leaned back on the bench a little. "I, unfortunately, had to change it, to put it better," he said, motioning to the tree. "The only reason I had to change it was because of Mundus and his... well, connection to the Reaper’s Heart now."
"What is the Reaper’s Heart? You’ve not been the only one to mention it," I said, gazing up at the tree with him.
"This is the Grove of Echoes now," he said, pointing to the tree before me. "If you concentrate, you will be able to see the souls connected to each Life Strand," he explained. "The Reaper’s Heart, well..." He trailed off, frowning slightly. "It’s an old artifact that the Reapers used to work with—it was a way in and out of the Reaper’s Realm. It was supposed to be practically disabled, but things changed when..." Yushin paused for another moment, "When you nearly were killed. The ritual that was performed between you and Mundus allows him to use it once more."
"Astaroth said he hasn’t come to the Reaper’s Realm?" I questioned.
"No, he hasn’t. But... During Blood Moons, the Reaper’s Heart can also open a single portal into all of our realms—and other realms. It’s an artifact that connects all the realms together and will teleport any and all souls immediately to that position. They decided not to use it long before your mother was created."
“Created?” I asked
“Ah,” Yushin bit his tongue and sighed. “Sorry, that… Wasn’t a topic yet,” He murmured sheepishly.
My curiosity piqued, "You mean my mother wasn't born like a regular Reaper?"
Yushin hesitated, clearly debating how much to tell me. "Your mother... She was part of an ancient lineage, one that was crafted by powerful forces to maintain balance across the realms. It's a complex history involving magic and rituals far beyond the normal understanding of even the most seasoned Reapers."
“What do you mean?” I asked.
“Before you came along, your mother was a human - just like you.” He said with a soft smile. “Well, I guess you’re technically a halfling. But ya know, still.”
“So, my mother was a human - my father, Lord Zonoth, apparently?”
“I… Forgot about him, honestly. I never interacted with him much,” Yushin murmured.
I raised an eyebrow. "Forgot about him? How could you forget about someone like Lord Zonoth?"
Yushin scratched the back of his head. “Well, he was the Demon Lord, Snow!” he exclaimed with a soft chuckle. “He was an all-powerful ruler of the Underworld—stronger than the seven demon brothers, including Astaroth. His supremacy reigned for moons upon moons or billions of years. He never had the heart to take someone on in his life—and then, well, he spotted the Lady in Red.”
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Yushin smiled softly, “Yuna has told me that one day, the Lady in Red—she wasn’t the demon queen at the time—was out returning souls, and he saw her and, well, just… It’s up in the air then. It’s kind of a cheesy love story,” he chuckled. “You think that demons don’t really fall for humans - or other demons or however you want to explain it to yourself - but... honestly? They all have a heart somehow,” He said with a sad smile. “Jenieva, Astaroth, Mati, and even Kurai. They can be tricky and scary, but they’re good demons - well, Mati is a Celestial, but still!”
His blue gaze scanned the clearing and landed on me, locking with my gaze as a smile once more sat on his face. “From what I hear, Lord Zonoth was mesmerized by her compassion and strength. Lady Serelia, your mother, was dedicated to returning souls and maintaining a balance between realms. Despite his immense power, Zonoth was drawn to her kindness and unwavering commitment.”
He paused for a moment, reflecting. “It’s said that he watched her from afar for a long time, ensuring her safety without ever making his presence known. Eventually, their paths crossed, forming a bond that transcended their duties. It wasn’t immediate or easy given their vastly different worlds, but their love grew strong.”
“With time, the Lady in Red accepted Zonoth’s silent guardianship and eventually his love. They balanced each other perfectly—she with her active role in maintaining the balance of souls, and he with his protective nature, ensuring no harm would come to her while she performed her duties.”
Yushin smiled warmly, “So, while your father may not have been as visible or involved in everyday matters, his love and dedication were always there, quietly supporting and protecting your mother.”
“That makes me happy knowing Lord Zonoth was there for her - keeping her safe. But… How did she become a demon?” I asked him, curious.
Yushin nodded, understanding my curiosity. “Well, it’s quite a tale. The transition wasn’t immediate. The Lady in Red, your mother, was originally human, as you know. Her dedication to her Reaper role and deep connection to the Underworld gradually changed her. The Underworld’s energy began to intertwine with her own.”
He continued, “Over time, her constant exposure to the Underworld's powers and her bond with Lord Zonoth started to transform her. It was a slow process, but her essence began to evolve. Her love for Zonoth and her commitment to her duties played a significant role in this transformation.”
Yushin paused, collecting his thoughts. “There came a point when she had to choose—to fully embrace her role and the powers that came with it or to remain as she was. Her love for Zonoth and her desire to protect the balance between realms led her to embrace the transformation.”
“She became a demon, but not like any other. She retained her compassion and dedication, which made her unique. The Underworld recognized her as its queen, not just because of her connection with Zonoth but because of her strength and commitment. And thus, the Lady in Red became the Demon Queen.”
Listening to his story, I was intrigued. I finally learned about my mother’s past - and my father's. I have yet to meet Lord Zonoth - nor do I know if he’s still alive. But by the sound of it, neither of them were alive. My gaze lowered as I looked at my hands, now folded in my lap. “I’m glad you knew them, and they had allies such as Mati and Astaroth.”
“Absolutely!” Yushin said with a happy hop up off the bench. “Besides, you’re now the Reigning Queen and Reaper, just as your mother was!”
I frowned, “Yushin,” I murmured sadly. “I don’t think that’s possible for me.”
He looked offended and asked me, “What do you mean?”
“My mother, the Queen, and the Lady in Red? How did she even live her life? She gave me up to Ren and Sayuri,” I murmured.
“Oh no, that’s not… No, don’t think of it that way,” He had crouched in front of me and gazed up from the ground at me. “That’s not a story for me to tell, Snow. I only became a Spirit Walker shortly after your birth, so I honestly don’t know too much before that. Enoxon’s told you my story, and it’s true. I was human previously, and I lived in the Underworld. In a different area other than the Asturdorm, but still a simple city.”
“You’ll have to tell me your story one day, too,” I said gently, offering a small smile.
“Heh, I promise I will,” he replied, standing up straight and helping me off the bench. “But for now, let me show you something neat about the Spirit Tree while we’re here.”
“Will it teleport us again?” I asked, giving him a wary look.
“No disruptions this time, Snow,” he chuckled as he walked over to the tree and placed his hand on it. “But you’ll need to sit down with me.” He sat cross-legged next to the tree and motioned for me to join him.
Gazing up at the tree and then back at him, I felt a comforting peace wash over me—no voices, no sounds, just calm. I then joined him underneath the tree.
“Now, close your eyes—just as Mati said. Imagine the Strands of Life, but you’ll see them differently now.”
As I closed my eyes, I focused on imagining the Strands of Life as Yushin instructed. Slowly, I began to sense a gentle warmth radiating from the Spirit Tree. It felt like a soft, comforting embrace.
“Good,” Yushin’s voice came through softly, guiding me. “Now, let the energy of the tree guide your thoughts. The Spirit Tree connects all living things and their energies. You should start to see the Strands of Life weaving together, forming intricate patterns.”
I concentrated deeper, and vibrant threads of light soon appeared in my mind’s eye. They intertwined and danced around each other, creating a beautiful tapestry of connections and relationships. Each strand seemed to pulse with life, reflecting the essence of every being it represented.
“Can you see them?” Yushin asked gently.
“Yes,” I whispered, amazed by the sight. “They’re so beautiful.”
“These strands represent the lifeforce of every being connected to the Spirit Tree,” Yushin explained. “By focusing on them, you can sense the energy flow and even influence it to some extent. It’s a way of understanding the interconnectedness of all life.”
“You can see how people’s lives will end, when someone’s will begin, and everything in between. You can learn to heal and guide those lost souls, perhaps one day communicate with them,” he continued. “It’s a powerful ability, one that requires respect and responsibility. But for now, just feel the connection.”
I took a deep breath, becoming even more attuned to the strands. The energy felt like a gentle current, flowing through me and connecting me to the essence of the Spirit Tree. I could sense the myriad life forces, each unique yet part of a greater whole.
“Good,” Yushin encouraged. “Let the energy of the tree flow through you. Feel its wisdom and strength. The more you practice, the more you’ll understand the nature of life and death.”
As I continued to focus, I felt a more profound connection forming. It was as if I could almost hear the whispers of the souls connected to the tree, their stories and emotions flowing through the strands. The feeling was both overwhelming and comforting.
“Remember, Snow, this connection is a gift,” Yushin said softly. “Use it wisely and with compassion. The Spirit Tree is a source of great knowledge and power but demands respect and care. I will warn you, though - with great power comes great responsibility. You shouldn’t use the strands to see someone else’s life here and now. You shouldn’t use it to search for your own, Astaroth’s, or even Kurai’s. I’ll let you know that it’s not easy to change the future.”
With that, I was left alone in the clearing of the large Spirit Tree, which I could get used to. Knowing that only the Spirit Walkers and I were allowed here, I would be abusing that and coming here to get away from anyone causing me drama. I gazed at the tree, head tilted, “I wonder if I can find my mother’s strand somewhere?”
I closed my eyes and focused on the energy of the Spirit Tree. I reached out with my senses, trying to feel for any strand that resonated with the memory of my mother. The strands of life pulsed softly, each humming with a unique energy. I wandered around the tree, lightly tracing my fingers over the strands, hoping to find some connection and hint of her presence. She was the Previous Reaper; I had to be able to connect with her.
As I concentrated, I felt a faint, almost imperceptible warmth. My heart skipped a beat. Could it be her? I followed the warmth, gently parting the strands until I found one that seemed to glow with a soft, familiar light. Tears welled up in my eyes as I touched it, feeling a wave of love and sorrow wash over me.
Memories of her gentle touch and soothing voice flooded my mind. I could almost hear her laughter and feel her comforting presence enveloping me. It was as if she were standing right beside me, holding my hand. I closed my eyes tighter, wanting to hold onto this moment, this connection, for as long as possible.
The strand pulsed with a rhythm that mirrored my heartbeat, each pulse a reminder of the bond we once shared. I whispered softly, “Mom, are you here?” The warmth seemed to intensify in response, and I took a deep breath, feeling a sense of peace and comfort.
I heard raised voices in the distance before I could delve deeper into the connection. Curious and concerned, I decided to follow the sound. As I approached, I recognized the voices of Yushin and Kurai. “What could possibly be happening now?” I muttered to myself.
Their argument grew louder as I approached. I reached a small, hidden path, pushing my way through an invisible barrier and crouching to listen.
“Three years, Kurai! It took you three years to get this done. THREE YEARS!” Yushin’s voice trembled with barely contained anger. “Remember? I get you were off doing whatever the hell it was you were doing to become stronger or more confident...” He trailed off.
“I did it for her,” Kurai retorted, his voice filled with rage. “No one knew how strong Mundus was—except me. What if I failed? What if she didn’t make it back? I wanted to increase our chances, not gamble with her life!” he argued.
“You’re going to break her when she finds out,” Yushin growled.
Break me? I questioned silently, shifting uncomfortably. What did he mean by that?
“She just woke up after three years, Yushin. She’s been chased by a demon, killed by a traitorous sorcerer, and she has a job to do—just like we do,” Kurai snapped.
“She’s a Reaper re-marked by another demon. She should be making her own decisions, not being controlled at every turn,” Yushin grumbled. “That’s what you’re trying to do!”
“Controlling?” Kurai’s voice growled. “She’s been awake for only a few hours!”
“And she was sleeping for three years. None of us can understand why it took you three years to do something you could’ve done already! You disappeared, didn’t even come back to visit her like the rest of us!” Yushin continued, his frustration evident.
The Nogitsune fell silent, and I could sense the embarrassment he held. He had come to visit at least once or twice. Was I wrong? Or was I just not… awake when he came to visit? Perhaps I only remember Astaroth off the top of my head visiting because it was his magic? I couldn’t believe Kurai didn’t come to see me!
“Three years, Kurai, and no one knew what you were doing or where you were,” Yushin’s voice dropped to just above a whisper. “You will break her.”
“I did what I had to do,” Kurai muttered.
I took a deep breath and stepped forward into the clearing. “Hey! Are you guys okay?! I heard yelling just a few moments ago!” I called out, avoiding the topic they were discussing—at least for now. I wasn’t ready to know. “Are we arguing once more?” I added with a half-smile. “I know it’s been a stressful three years without me and Yushin; we have many things to do! I’m ready to face what I need to!” I said, turning my gaze to look over the Spirit Walker.
I caught the two exchanging glances, Yushin’s much more agitated than Kurai’s, but they turned to face me.
“But Snow—”
I raised my hand to stop Kurai and nodded. “I’m ready! Mundus wants me? Mundus gets me, and all this ends! How does that sound? Will I let the demon have me? Nah, I have higher standards than that,” I said, my forced positivity barely masking my resolve.
“Snow, as your guide, I highly recommend—”
“Nope, Yushin! I’m ready to train beside you, learn my basics and advanced skills—I’m ready for it all!”
Yushin’s face lit up with excitement. “It’s much more than just a few things to learn!” he exclaimed. “You’ll learn to judge, guide, fight off corrupted souls, banish demons, and so much more!” The Spirit Walker reached over, grabbing my hands and holding them momentarily. “You’re going to do amazing as the Reaper. Your confidence, your excitement, and your readiness to learn are exactly what we need! But we’ve got a couple of things to take care of first!” he said, a playful grin spreading across his face.
“Such as?”
“Controlling your magic,” he said, gently bopping me on the nose.
Yushin could be childish at times, but it was clear that he genuinely cared and wanted me to succeed. The Spirit Walker indeed seemed invested in my journey and my growth.
Kurai reached over, removing Yushin’s hands from mine, the spark of jealousy returning in his gaze. “I know you’re excited, Snow, but this is a serious time,” He said gently.
I nodded to him and stated, “Well, does it mean freeing Yuna and Enoxon and taking down Mundus? I’ll be more than happy to get it done!” I pulled my hands away as I looked back at Yushin. “I mean, if Enoxon is freed, I’m not sure what’s going on with him,” My voice saddened as I remembered the look he had on his face. He was twisted and corrupted, but when he gave me the water in the locked cell, he had a look of remorse and guilt. “I don’t think he’s all that bad.”
"HE TRIED TO KILL YOU?!" Kurai growled. "He literally—"
"Almost," I replied with a reassuring smile. "But I'm still here. Maybe something influenced him? Maybe he didn't have a choice? Besides, you don't understand how powerful they really are."
"But you do," I said, smiling as I pointed to the new markings on my body, a gift from him.
"Yes, but... that's not always how things turn out," the nogitsune argued, his ears flattening as he realized how resolute I was.
"You know what? Things don't always go as planned," I scoffed. "But I have to try." I gave him a determined look. "I have to try, Kurai. I am the Underworld's Reaper."
"That's right, you do!" Yushin cheered beside me.
"We just need to banish Mundus, right?"
"Ehhhh," the Spirit Walker shrugged nonchalantly. "It's not that simple. But don't worry, I'll teach you magic and cool things!" His voice was cheerful and almost childlike, but there was a strong determination behind it. "Enoxon was supposed to help you with the magic, but things changed because of his ex-girlfriend, fiancée, or whatever humans call each other. He got sucked into a Contract, hoping it would let him see her again. He gave up everything for her... I hope it turned out the way he wanted."
Hearing that stung a little. I knew so little about Enoxon's past; now, I wasn't even sure if what I knew was valid. Sure, he hurt me—almost killed me, even. But did he really mean to?
Was I trying to convince myself to forgive him?
Why would I even think that this sorcerer cared about us?
No, I couldn't forgive him. My rage for him was subdued for the moment, but recalling the events and how they unfolded made me angry. I needed to find him. And Mundus? I couldn't wait to find a way to destroy him for taking my mother away from me.
"Why don't we just get something to eat, hmm?" Yushin suggested, noticing my rising anger. "We can go visit Jenieva and the others."
I smiled, my mind momentarily distracted. "Sounds like a plan."
Kurai, however, seemed apprehensive. "Too many eyes and ears everywhere. Too risky," he muttered, averting his gaze.
"We could hide her...?" Yushin offered.
"Mundus has a taste for her blood—it wouldn’t be easy to hide her," Kurai argued.
"I'll get Astaroth then," the Spirit Walker replied, undeterred.
"I mean, I can stay here," I said, frowning. "But I'd rather not."
"Great, then it's settled. We'll stay here, and you can go do Spirit Walker stuff," Kurai dismissed Yushin.
Yushin chuckled, giving me a quick wink. "I know you're hungry. I heard your stomach growling like crazy back there."
"Again, I'd rather not stay here," I said with an awkward smile.
Kurai rolled his eyes and sighed, standing up. "Fine, a quick meal and a quick hello to everyone. Since it's after hours, this should be fine. The second I sense danger, though, we're out of there."
Approaching me, the fox-demon extended his hand. I reluctantly took it, and he pulled me up onto my feet. With a quick snap of his fingers, a small portal opened, leading us to the Wet Rose, owned by the demon woman Jenieva.