Ramira Prin

"Mayhaps," the elezen started, "you would prefer the use of an alias? Do you have a pseudonym, perchance?"

"Do I look like a writer to you?" The hyur tilted their head to a subtle angle. Their tone held suspicion as if quietly concealing a dagger ready to plunge into those that got too close or knew too much. Eyes widened to reveal dilated pupils that could engulf the entirety of their eyes. The innkeeper was taken aback.

"I-I apologize for making such an assumption," the elezen bowed. "But you're carrying a manuscript case, correct?"

The hyur looked down at their hands. They were grasping two items with a dragon-like grip: a lalafellin coat and a case inlaid with ivory designs. The case had a chain strap that was adorned with brass beads. A locking mechanism was riveted to the case. Unbeknownst to the elezen, the hyur did not have the key to open the lock.

"Oh...yes…" the hyur continued staring at the items as if they had suddenly apperated in their hands. "I suppose one could make that assumption."

There was a sustained, uncomfortable silence within The Forgotten Knight. Bravely, the innkeeper cleared his throat to try and kill the dead air. "Shall I have you down as 'Anon'?"

The hyur flipped their attention towards the unsettled elezen.

"S-Short for Anonymous…?"

"No."

"Th-then, what name?"

The hyur tightened their grip on the little lalafell girl's coat. They noted a name embroidered into the collar.

Mhm. I see. And, uh, when did you go to see the "apothecary"?

Earlier that day…I think. No, wait! No, I think it was a few weeks ago. I try to space it out to avoid suspicion. Yeah, it went: got the fantasia potion, tracked the guy, took him to my room, feast, dismemberment, then I took the fantasia potion.

Did you clean up before or after taking the potion?

After. I learned from previous experience that whatever dirt, filth, or gore you had on you before you took the potion stays on you. So, yeah, I definitely had a shower.

Okay, you cleaned yourself up but did you clean him up?

Oh, yeah, that happened the next day. I always try to schedule time for a clean up day.

Sounds like you've got it all planned out.

You're godsdamn right.

But, why do it? I mean, I get the whole "men are trash" thing. Any woman would understand that. But why trouble yourself with ending them entirely?

It's just the solution I've come to: I'm doing the world a service by correcting mistakes made by those who would perpetuate a cycle of violation. There's no hope for someone that rationalizes or justifies rape.

You think yourself a hero?

I'm the godsdamn Warrior of Light!

You've also traumatized innocent people.