I do not know how long I was floating there in a half awake state. I could feel myself falling, but at the same time, it almost felt like I was wrapped in a silken blanket lying on top of a rather comfortable bed. I did not remember what had happened nor why I was there at the time. All that I knew or cared about was that I was oh so tired and did not want to leave the warm presence of the bed.

Wherever I was, it was dark. Not the kind of dark that you achieve when you turn off the lights just before lying down for the night, but a palpable variety of darkness. It felt thick, as I waved my arm in front of me. For a moment, I felt claustrophobic, almost panicking in my prison. But then I remembered that I was tired. So I rolled over and drove myself further under the silk. It felt odd at that moment as I lay on my side. There was a distinct feeling that something was missing. I thought not of light nor logic which both did not seem to be present, but of my hand which was immovable. My free hand moved over to investigate and my breath caught.

I lost my arm.

Only then did the memories of the past few hours return to my remembrance. I panicked, and if someone were there to observe my loss of sanity, I imagine it would appear as if I were seizing.

Suddenly, light burst in small points in the distance. Temporarily, I forgot about my predicament and waited in silence as the light grew closer. Closer. Closer. It was when it flooded my vision with brightness that I dove at it. Not caring much for the consequences, only seeking to abandon this darkness and the feelings of fear with it. It was almost too bright for my eyes to take.

~~~~`~

If you recall back to the last time you saw a sci-fi or fantasy movie where the protagonists get thrown through some portal or teleportation spell and they get spit back out, rolling on the ground only to get up and continue on their way no worse for the wear, It was all a lie.

As the light spit me out, giving me not only my vision, but my cognizance back, I was thrown to the ground. And not lightly either. The only real memory I have from that moment was the splitting and utterly mind numbing pain that ran up my back and coalesced in the back of my skull. I cried out, tears leaking forth almost immediately and infinitely. I was sure I had just earned myself a concussion, and if there were copious amounts of blood that stained whatever I had landed on, well, it would not surprise me nor would I care. My back, I swore, was broken, but I was somehow still able to move my hand to my left side where it grasped a stump. Which I soon found out was also leaking my precious fluids.

Screams were muffled by gritted teeth only to be set free whenever a new wave of pain crawled agonizingly along my back, arm and head. At this point it was only a matter of time before I would bleed out, perhaps not before losing consciousness.

Looking back on that moment, I can't help but wonder why, through all that pain, through all that agony, and lack of hope, the thoughts that seemed to cross my mind were of my perhaps dead parents. They did not deserve their fate. And I blamed myself. I also still do not understand why my body did not pull itself back together with my inherent regenerative abilities. I had sustained many an injury, a lot of them worse, after that time, yet I was made to suffer in that moment of utter helplessness.

I knew I would die if I did nothing. But that was just it, I could do nothing. My body did not respond on command, and that was that. I was doomed at that moment. Or so my weakened mind thought. I had no knowledge of the pair of eyes that watched me. The hands that shook my motionless body. The arms that scooped me up, a hand behind my head and carried me off. The voice that told me to hold on, that pleaded me to stay awake. To fight it. To fight off death.

Those moments are absent from my memories, aside from blurred, half conscious visions of my savior. For the next long while, reality was fiction. The only company I had, were the dreams that riddled my subconscious.

I do not recall much of the dreams that I had that day or, perhaps, days. One included a fight I participated in back when I still did MMA. One of my nastier fights, my opponent had given me a concussion by punching me repeatedly, while I was down. I did not win that fight, however I felt no pain after getting up a minute later.

Another was of the day before this all happened. When I was gazing up at the star ridden sky that somehow peered through the relentless smog. They were fond memories, at least the ones I remember clearly. But they were far outweighed by hazy, twisted dreams that I can only describe at the moment as gut wrenching, and fear inducing.

I did wake up several times, or at least I thought I did. I could see blurry figures moving around a room, occasionally coming to my side and giving me clarity as to their identities. I know my mother was there. I thought I saw the large frame of my father but wasn't sure. I heard voices but never made out any words. I attempted to sit up, but vomited and fell back into the dreamscape. This happened two or three times, but I didn't always vomit. All I knew for sure; the one thing that stood out among the haze, was that I was miserable. And I wanted to die.

~~~~~~~~~`

It was because of cries of pain that I awoke from my slumber. Not my own thankfully, but rather someone outside a door on the opposite side of the room. Bright daylight entered through a sky light, or rather, the whole ceiling was missing. It looked like tree cover was a makeshift roof. There were no windows otherwise. The walls and floor were polished wood, but there seemed to be no distinction between the two. Where they met, it was beveled to remain one surface. The room was generally bare save for a few beds that sat against the walls. Glass lamps also lined the walls, probably to give light during the night.

No one else was in the room with me, but I could hear several sets of voices conversing outside. I could only guess this was some hospital or medical center. With that bit of speculation and the curiosity it warranted, memories came back to me of my earlier ventures on the brink of death. My hands, well, hand, did an immediate search of my body. I learned that I was unclothed, bandaged around my head, and that my back was incredibly sore. My stump was bandaged as well and when I mustered the courage to take a look, I found that it was relatively clean save for a few specks of blood. I guessed that I had been here more than just one day.

For the next couple of minutes, I was left to ponder my location and situation. It was not too long after I started that the door creaked, and in walked what I could only hope was a figment of my imagination. It was short, perhaps just under 4 ft tall. Humanoid in shape but not in features. It honestly looked to have the head of a deer, but more human like. Deer ears were present as well. As one could well imagine, I was apprehensive in my current situation. Then it spoke and I did not know whether to feel relief that it was sapient, or to scream at the fact that a talking man-deer was advancing on me.

But perhaps this was not a man at all. In fact, the voice sounded like a child's more on the female side. It's voice was honestly something you would hear from an anime character. I never caught what it said, as I was either mesmerized or horrified by the creature standing in front of me. It's body was slender and small, giving more to the fact that it was more than likely a child. I instantly decided that I would get the hell out of this place.

“W-wait! You can't move!” It pleaded holding it's small hands up and waving, gesturing for me to stay put. “You just woke up, and if you move around too much you could hurt yourself. Just take it easy and maybe go back to sleep. I could bring you some food if you're hungry. Or I could check your bandages to see if they need to be changed! Or-”

I held up a hand to stop it in the middle of its mile-a-minute ranting. It obeyed. I took a deep breath and held it in for a few seconds before letting it back out slowly. “I am going to ask you a very important question and I need a straight, serious answer. Can you do that for me?” It nodded slowly. “Where are we?”

“We're in Elksjö. It's to the south of Concordia.”

I had never in my life heard those names. And I considered myself to be at least half-way decent at world geography. I took another breath. “Country?”

The creature looked at me as if I had gone dumb. “Cervidas.” It said slowly. I knew for a fact that is not a real country. “Are you okay?” It asked after a while. I suppose it was justified because I was more than likely staring at them with an odd look.

“Okay, this is going to sound a bit odd but humor me: What planet are we on?” I held my breath waiting for the answer. I swear an hour passed before I got my answer. And when I did, it was in the form of a giggle.

“Silly! We're on Earth of course!” The creature went into a fit of giggles before exclaiming. “Maybe you hit your head harder than we thought.” I did not know whether to be offended, relieved, or just go back to bed and hope this all would go away. “Oh, where are my manners? My name is Anika.” Anika had jumped up on my bed and was getting uncomfortably close. “What's your name?”

I contemplated giving a false name. If that Jareb guy was here as well. I did not want him finding me, at least not yet. But then again a name alone wouldn't give much to track would it? “Ami.”

Anika's eyes got rather wide and she smiled wider, if that was possible. “Both our names start with an 'A'!” She started giggling. She went on making jokes about it, continuing in her merriment while I just sat with a worried smile.

That continued until there was a quiet knock on the door, before it opened to reveal another, but similar creature. I would guess they were of the same... species? But this one was clearly male and stood perhaps nearly 7 ft tall. He was built fairly with broad shoulders and his face was rough; mean looking almost. He wore thick cloth trousers, a coat of similar material (one that was open and showed his muscular, furred stomach and chest) and a necklace made from what I would guess were wolf teeth and claws. He himself was a sandy color with dark brown hair that hung loose down past his shoulders. A long set of antlers protruded from his head and his deer-like ears were pierced in several places. At the moment, he wore a rather emotionless expression.

“Anika.” His voice was deep. “Why don't you gather a meal for our friend here. I can imagine she would have quite an appetite after such an ordeal.” He accented the order with a stomp of a foot and a grunt when Anika failed to comply. She sighed and got off the bed.

“Yes Sir!” She quickly said with a mock solute before running out of the room, continuing her giggles.

Once the door had clicked shut, the new man heaved a sigh and smiled. “I apologize on behalf of my daughter. She can be quite the handful. I trust she did not do any harm?”

“Oh, no, no.” I hastily said. “She is a cute one though.”

That seemed to be the right thing to say, as he laughed loudly. “Indeed she is. I apologize, allow me to introduce myself. I am Elesius Clove. Second in command in this humble village. I was actually sent here to inform you that the Chief requests your audience.” After a moment of thought, he added. “After you have eaten of course.”

All I could think of was to mutter a “Thank you.”

After that, he left and I was again left alone to my thoughts. Not too long later, Anika returned with what looked like a salad, bread covered in cheese, and a glass of wine. I had drunken very little in my life, but I was not against it. However, after just waking after who knows how long due to serious injuries, I thought alcohol would not be the best thing at the moment even if it would help to dull the pain. After explanation, Anika was all too happy to fetch me a glass of water in the wine's stead. The meal was delicious, and filling. Perhaps it was my dry mouth longing for some flavor, but I devoured it hastily all the same. The vegetables in the salad were crisp and fresh. The cheese on the bread wasn't anything I was used to but it was creamy and delicious. I guessed it was goat cheese or something.

As I drained the last of my water, Elesius returned. “Are you able to walk?”

“Let's find out.” I said with a healthy dose of apprehension. I slipped the covers off only to remember I was naked, and hastily covered myself again. A quick, embarrassed look to Elesius showed that he had his regular stony expression. I gave him the universal look of 'Get out so I can get dressed, you pervert.' But that look wasn't as universal as I had thought.

“The clothes you were wearing were dirty and torn. They were sent to be mended. In the meantime, you may use those sitting on the table.” I looked over to a table nearby and saw clothes very similar to the ones he was wearing. Thankfully, a shirt was included. However, Elesius still made no indication of leaving.

“Would you mind leaving or at least turning around so I can get dressed.” That must have surprised him, if the look he gave was any hint.

“I apologize. My people are usually not so prudish.” He left the room.

“Prudish?” I whispered as I attempted to stand. It came rather easily and without incident. I walked over to the table, before I was assaulted by dizziness. I leaned on the table for stability until it passed. I hastily slipped on the pants, and then the shirt. I forewent the makeshift coat on account of it looking itchy. That is to say, that the pants weren't all that much better without underwear. They were a pretty decent fit, but just to be safe, I tightened on a belt that I found under the coat. When I finished I looked myself over. To be honest I looked like an Indian. The pants were full length, but the shirt (which was made of a softer material and felt rather good) showed the majority of my stomach.

“Finished?” I jumped, and spun around to find Elesius poking his head through the door. I could only sigh, and nod, before following him out.

Walking through the halls, I soon came to affirm that it was indeed a hospital. There were only one or two rooms on each floor, and we went down five or so floors before reaching the bottom. I knew there were more, because I remember seeing stairs going up the opposite way we went. When we got outside, I found, much to my shock but amusement as well, that the hospital was made from a tree. Large wooden structures sat on thick branches, presumably being each room. Looking around, each building was made of wood, or built into a tree. It reminded me a lot of the elven city in the Eragon books. It was breathtaking to say the least. Along the way, Elesius was all but stoic like I had expected him to be and he was talkative and friendly. He asked me numerous questions about myself, all of which I answered in detail. I was starting to really like this guy. When he asked where I came from, he snorted at my answer. “So you are from Pony lands. Quite interesting considering you are not a pony. Come to think of it, I do not think I am familiar with your species.”

I looked at him as if he had just suggested that I jump from the nearest cliff. “Um... no. Not a pony. Philidelphia. In America. Humans?” I thought it was worth a shot.

“Are you certain you are sane?” He said it almost jokingly but serious enough.

Again, I just stared at him.

“Ah, here we are.” He stated, seeing fit to discard the conversation in favor of his duty. We had arrived at the largest structure yet. Two willows framed the entrance to the only stone building in this whole place. The stone was mossy and covered in vines. Vibrant flowers adorned the vines, and gave the stone a very earthy feel. Large wooden doors were then pushed open by two guards holding spears. Once the door was open, both guards dropped to one knee and bowed their heads, placing a fist over their heart.

“Come...” He cleared his throat. “I do believe I have failed to acquire your name.” He looked down to me with an apologetic expression.

“Amethyst. Just call me Ami.”

He did a slight bow, and motioned toward the open doors. “Then come, Ami. I shall introduce you to our chieftain. I nodded and motioned for him to lead the way. We passed through several long hallways with doors inlaid in the stone every 20 or so feet. Eventually, we ended up in front of yet another set of large gilded doors. Through the same process set forth by the guards, we were allowed entrance into a very spacious throne room. Columns lined the sides, and a silken green carpet led the way to a wooden throne. Flowers, vines, and other various plant life grew on and around the throne, while vibrant green grass blades poked their way through the cracks in the mossy stone. Shafts of light fell upon the area through carved openings in the ceiling, thick vines falling towards the ground through the same openings. On either side of the throne were more guards, lightly armored, and wielding various weapons. The whole scene was something I would typically stereotype towards an elven race or otherwise forest oriented tribe.

“Enter, Guest. I am glad to see you are well.” A soft, and distinctly feminine, voice called out to us as we stepped inside. It was only then, that I laid eyes on this supposed chieftain. Which was yet another surprise as when someone mentions a chieftain, usually it is an elderly man that is referred to. But the one who sat upon the throne before me was a rather young looking (if the creatures surrounding her were anything to judge by), woman; Deer. Silver fur covered her body, much in the same fashion as everyone else I had met so far. Deep green eyes looked upon me with a motherly tone. One I knew all too well. While the guards by her sides were outfitted with armor that looked really similar to leather, but I wasn't too sure, she was adorned with a set of armor that seemed to cover her chest, shoulders, wrists, legs, and feet. Her stomach, upper arms, hands, neck and head were left uncovered. It almost seemed like it was more for aesthetic appeal or dominance rather than functional protection.

The large piercings on both ears jingled softly as she stood. She clapped her hands twice, and motioned for the guards to leave the room. Once gone, she looked passed me to Elesius, and nodded to him. “Your assistance is most appreciated Elesius. I would like to speak with out guest in private.”

He bowed in answer and muttered, “Of course, Sir.” He left immediately after.

Now alone with the strange woman, I felt uneasy. No elk/deer/thing should have naturally silver hair. And there was still the whole thing of them being a foot taller than her. It was... disconcerting.

She took me by surprise with a deep bow that exuded acute grace, obviously one that had been practiced over many years. After returning to her full height, she spoke. “I am Seldanna. The head of this humble village.”

“No offense, but this throne room looks a little more than a village chieftain's.”

She giggled at that and it carried with it a slight echo. “All too true. You see, where we stand was once the largest kingdom in Cervidas, and I it's ruler. Times change, wars rampage, and new powers arise. But excuse me, I get ahead of myself. Please, tell me your name.”

“Amethyst. But please, call me Ami.” I attempted a slight bow of my own. Nothing at all like the one that was performed for me, just a quick dip of my head.

Something flashed in the Chief's eyes, but it was quick and uncertain, perhaps a figment of my imagination. She circled me, looking me up and down, studying me with her luminescent emerald eyes. When she talked again, there was more of a curious, awe-filled tone. “Do tell me, Ami. Where is it that you hail from?”

“Philadelphia.” I wondered if she would reach the same conclusion as Elesius.

She giggled again. “It has indeed been quite some time since we have seen the appearance of a human in this world.

“So you know what I am? Do you know how I can get back home!?” I let too much enthusiastic hope slip into my voice, making me sound all too desperate. Perhaps rude.

“And why would you desire such a thing, when it is here that you belong?” She was smirking all the while, I figured she had an important piece of information that she was hiding. Still, it did not stop me from putting on a very surprised look. She cleared her throat when she noticed it, “Excuse me, forget I said anything. To answer your question, yes and no. There are several ways to cross realities, but I would assure you that you would be very hard-pressed to find anyone that would would willingly perform the necessary actions. I can, however, point you to someone who might have more information.” She was back on her throne now. She must have noticed my eagerness, and she continued. “But before that, there is someone who I would trust you want to meet.”

I cocked my head to the side. “Who would that be? I know no one here.”

Her smile deepened and she lightly chuckled. “Why, your savior of course.”

I did not remember much at all, but I guess someone had to of brought me here. “Yes, I would like to thank him. Where can I find them?”

“I will have a guard escort you to the outskirts where you will be given directions.”

I thanked her for her help and turned to leave, but was stopped. “One more thing. My condolences concerning your arm.”

I nodded and left.

~~~~~~~~~`

I was directed towards a grove on the outskirts of the town. It did not take long to get there, but without an escort, I was not spared the embarrassment of asking directions, which often resulted in odd looks not always due to the question. When I finally arrived, the view stole my breath away. It was more of a glade due to the overhand of many willow trees that allowed only specks of light to hit the ground. Occasionally a breeze would pick up, pushing the branches aside and allowing more light to spill onto the myriad of flowers that painted the ground in all different colors. I could hear a brook trickling by somewhere unseen as well as the occasional rustle as small animals darted from cover to cover, curious enough to scout out the new intruder, but cautious enough to not be seen.

Looking around, I was beginning to wonder if anyone was actually here, but my eyes caught sight of a sitting figure, hunkered down in the crowd of plant life. I was hoping for human, but what I got was again, human in shape, yet vastly different. A gray cloak hid the personages body from view, but the lowered hood that was attached failed to hide the dark purple head adorned with evergreen spines running down the middle, reaching down it's neck and continuing into the cloak.

I drew closer with quite steps, hoping not to startle him, but failed around half-way. At this range I could tell it was in a meditative pose, it's gloved hands with half exposed fingers curled into the stereotypical “o” with the other fingers outstretched. Upon noticing my presence, his head turned slightly, and he muttered, “give me a moment.” And he resumed his meditation.

Slightly off put by him ignoring me, but content to take in the scenery more, I stopped where I was still halfway, and imitated his pose. I took several long breaths, before evening out my breathing and focusing inwards to my thoughts. I had done this a lot growing up, both as a medium to defuse my built up anger and frustration with the world as well as a way to focus my thoughts before a match. It was true that it took a great deal of patience, but in my opinion the outcome was always worth it.

The cool breeze brought a shiver, but the sound of the swaying leaves lulled me into a deeper trance. I must have fallen asleep, because I woke from a tapping on my forehead, and when I opened my eyes, I yelped at the sight of a pair of green reptile-like ones staring into mine.

The man who was meditating earlier was now crouched in front of me. He wore a somber expression, and his interest in my being here seemed to be a little lackluster. When he saw that he had my attention, he stood up slowly, giving a weak stretch, and began to walk in the direction that I had come from. When I failed to follow, he grunted, stopped and used his tail as a cursor to indicate the direction I should be moving. I rolled my eyes and stood, getting the feeling that he wasn't much one for talking.

When I caught up to him, I started to strike conversation. “So I hear talk that you are my savior?” I was hoping this was him, at least to save an awkward situation.

His reaction sparked utter confusion, but nevertheless I ducked to miss his swipe at me. When I looked for an answer, I only saw a gaze of pure hatred. His sharp teeth bared and gritted, while breathing heavy, he took another lunge at me. Ready for him this time, I grabbed his arm and maneuvered around him, pinning it against his back. It was tricky with one arm but his resistance was pathetic and amateurish at best. If he caught me with those claws or got me in a hold with his muscle then I might've been in trouble, but he lacked skill. I pushed him to the ground and put a knee on his spine while holding one arm to the ground with my other knee, and his other with my hand.

I leaned down to where I guessed his ear was. “I don't know what the hell your problem is, but attack me like that again and I will drop you faster than a sack of -” I stopped mid threat on the account of hearing weak sobs. Looking around to the other side, I confirmed the fact that he was crying. Tears rolled down his cheeks and his eyes held shut. He was still gritting his teeth again but the sobs escaped through them.

I was more confused than anything, but I was not without a bit of sympathy. What was his problem?

“Oh my.”

I spun around, releasing my hold on the lizard man and standing up to face the newcomer. He stood about a head above me and had a similar fur problem that the deer folk had. His fur was a charcoal gray and he had silver hair such as my own that sat on his shoulders. I could tell at the very least that he was not the same as the townsfolk I had awakened to find, not only due to the difference in the ears which were shorter and a bit more round, but most of all because of the horn that protruded from his forehead. Azure eyes fixed me in a stare of curious mirth. His body was obscured by cloth trousers, combat boots, a cloak and shirt but I could tell that he was muscular.

“Now what possessed you to incapacitate my pupil?” There was no anger in his voice but instead he chuckled.

Like a child caught in a parents scorn, I mumbled “He started it.”

“Yes, well whoever it was, I will commend you. You look to be quick on your feet.” He directed himself towards the now standing man behind me. “Spike, I would like you to continue where we left off last night while I talk with our friend here.”

Spike's gaze hardened, and he stared back defiantly. He was looking at the man beside me, but I could tell he meant every bit of it towards me. I couldn't blame him after all.

The man matched Spike's gaze and set into a readying stance. Spike continued for little longer before he faltered and turned to leave, kicking a rock at his feet.

“Please excuse him. Now, please accompany me to my abode. It is not far.” He directed me down the same path I had come earlier. I only looked back once, but I was once again astonished, when eyes filled with sorrow and apology followed me down the road.

~~~~~~~~~`

“A sight to behold is it not? The spring in these lands are simply breathtaking, though an understatement if I've ever made one. The vivid petals bloom upon the ground while the lush leaves sway to a subtle cool breeze. Wildlife is an abundance here, and they are docile and confident enough to approach as a domestic dog would be. Of the many places which I have resided in my lifetime this is without a doubt my preferred location. I-”

We had been walking along a dirt path for a few minutes before he had started rambling about the features of the land. Enticing as they might seem, it was not at all what I was interested in at the moment. My love for plant life aside. In all honesty I was quite impressed by the many tree houses that resided in the town. Though it was a bit more literal than my world's counterpart.

“- Oh do excuse my trivial small talk. I beg your pardon, but we have not been introduced.” He dipped to a low bow. “I am known as Malik.”

“Ami.” I said simply.

“Pleased to make your acquaintance Ami. The young bipolar dragon you scuffled with earlier is known as Spike.”

“Dragon?” I shouted in exasperation. I was tempted to not believe him, but I had seen enough to convince anyone today.

“Indeed. Though it may not appear so due to his young age and stunted growth, he is in fact a pure blooded dragon. And I do wish to apologize properly for his ferociousness. He has had a rough time of it the last few years and his mind is a bit broken. Give him time and he will come around.” He leaned down and said in a whisper. “Just between us, I really do think he likes you. He did save your life after all.” He stepped back with a smile before continuing down the road.

“So if he saved me, why did he just try to kill me?”

“My dear you must understand that while you are around him, and trust me that you will be around him quite a bit, you must watch what you say and tread lightly when speaking on a personal level. Please, do not pry further as it is no business of mine to spread speculation.”

My nose wrinkled at his promise. “What do you mean I will be around him a lot? As far as I'm concerned, I came only to thank him properly. I have no intention of sticking around him.”

Malik remained silent for the next few moments as we continued down the road. It was not much further along that we reached a farm that sat on the outskirts of the town. We turned down the slightly rougher path but Malik veered before we could reach the door, heading out into the field. No plants were sprouting anywhere, even weeds and stray grass were totally absent. The ground was tilled and dark appearing ready for plants.

He stopped in the middle of the field and turned towards me. “Now, I would like you to attack me. Do not worry about prying eyes, this farmland is isolate from any and all company aside from wildlife.

“Are you going to answer me?” Frustration was clear in my voice. I did not know anything about this man aside from that he was probably some martial arts master, if his “pupil” was anything to go by. If he was hoping to take me on as another student, he would be disappointed.

“If you win.” He said smoothly with a crooked grin.

“Don't you think it would be a little one sided when I am at a loss for my left arm?” I pointed out, hoping to get out of this.

“I have faith in you.” He quipped.

I did not want to fall for this trap. I very much desired to turn around and walk away. But as foolish as I was, I stood my ground and nodded to my opponent, my pride unwilling to offer any leeway.

He nodded as well and fell into a stance. It was not martial arts, I don't think. I had faced enough of that in the ring as foolish a tactic as it seemed when they would lie at my feet. It looked reminiscent of military cqc, but I was not sure. I took my own stance and readied for the worst. I couldn't have expected my opponent's skill.

I was the first to move to try and gain the upper hand. I erased the distance between us and threw a test punch to gauge his speed. He dodged it with ease, and delivered his own. It was quick and without much power, but when it grazed my ear, I flinched and he took the opportunity to fall to a crouch and sweep my legs out. I jumped up and back with mere centimeters to spare and fell into a back handspring to recreate some distance. The sudden strain on my cold muscles was already hounding on my performance.

“Too late to quit now.” I breathed. I took deep breaths and steadied my already racing heart. Malik waited patiently twenty or so feet away. I clenched my fist and took off, letting my strong legs carry me the shortening distance in little time. Once in range, I feinted a high punch, and while he was ducking under it, I swept my legs around, hoping to take his legs out from under him. He reacted quickly enough that he barely cleared my attack. He jumped back and a split second after landing, dove towards me, a neutral expression on his face. Without missing a step, he landed, twisted around me and knocked me to my knees with a hard elbow to the spine. I coughed and sputtered, writhing around tears from the pain rolling forth. He had no mercy and he knew that I knew he would not be pulling his punches. Could I stop pulling mine?

“If you keep restraining yourself, you will never accomplish victory against an opponent like me. You lack the skill, but your raw strength might save you.” He was by my side, making no move to either help me up nor kick me down again.

I was struggling to regain a standing position. The pain from my back raging in my mind, making me want to effectively give up and just lay there. I closed my eyes and heaved, trying what I could to get my breathing under control. This was twice I was made to feel so pathetic in such short time. Twice now, I was incapacitated within a minute of the fight starting. I had let my apparent strength and skill in the ring go to my head and act as a cushion for my ego. While in reality I was nothing to these people. Whatever this world was, it was better than I.

“Get up!” Malik roared. His sudden change in demeanor frightening me further. “If you wish to die, then I will oblige. But if you wish to become anything of worth, then stand and fight.”

What did he want from me? A stranger was treating me as some chosen hero meant to save the world. I did not agree at the time. I wanted rest. I wanted to return home. I wanted my parents back. I wanted to curl up and shut out the world. If dying would achieve these desires, then it did not seem so bad. Though a spark in my thoughts made me wonder why I had become so soft. A drastic change from how I used to be.

Malik scoffed. “I suppose you have every right to choose your fate... I was wrong about you.” I heard him turn on the dirt and walk away. “Though I wonder what sorrow such a fate would bring your mother?”

I did not know what it was, hope or anger, but something happened within me. I did not know if he really knew anything or if he was trying to get me riled up. Perhaps both, and I wanted to find out. Unbeknownst to me, my body had made my decision before I had time to think it out. I found myself on my feet, wavering in stance and enjoying a particularly terrifying migraine, but I was standing nonetheless.

It was mere seconds before my body made any move continue the fight and though my movements were sluggish at first, they were picking up speed. Malik turned to face me when he heard my footfalls on the loose ground, but it was too late. I doubted even he could evade something as fast as that quick, fierce strike that I delivered to his jaw. I poured forth every ounce of strength I had into that punch, without remorse. But once the dust, so to speak, settled, I felt fear gnawing at my stomach.

The day I had learned to pull my punches was one of nightmare inducing trauma. It was during one of my earlier matches when I was still inexperienced with my limits. I wanted to test them and it was with determination that I walked out to the ring. I stood opposite my opponent and visualized my fist driving hard into her face and a smug grin stretched my face. The girl facing me was looking nervous but had a grin to match mine.

When the match started, I made no attempt to bait my opponent into making a wrong move like I usually do but instead went straight for the kill. If I had known how literally that statement would effect the outcome, I would have never acted. My strike tore through her weak defenses like a hot knife through soft butter and connected with her nose. On impact I knew my mistake almost immediately as I felt her skull collapse with ease under the pressure.

That girl barely uttered a gasp before her lifeless body fell to the ground in a heap. Minutes passed that I stood there staring at the corpse. I couldn't tear my gaze from the one of shock and fear that was lifelessly staring into the void. Eventually, I too collapsed, and my body went into shock.

The ref had finally made a move and was checking for a pulse on my opponent. When he muttered that she was dead and called for a medical team, I completely lost it. Screaming and kicking at those who had come to help me, I still couldn't stop looking at the body. It took my father's strength to get me off the ground, and still I made it as difficult as possible to carry me.

I had murdered someone that day, and it took me several years to accept that fact. However unintentional it was. No charges were pressed, but I did not fight for those several years. Though when I did return, I had not been forgotten. As a matter of fact, hat was also the day I received the name Ami-The-Fist. It was more of an accusation than a glorified title.

Now I had done it again. I let his words get to me and in my blind rage, did something I knew I would regret. Coming out of that wrathful state, I walked towards the body with extreme trepidation. It had landed awkwardly an impressive ten or so feet away. Limps haphazardly bent underneath, and the neck grotesquely spun to a degree not possible of it's own volition. Blood trickled from the lips set uneven by the misplaced jaw.

I bit my lip and tried to look away, though I knew I would not be able to. The only thing I found odd were the eyes that met mine in a gaze that was very much alive. In fact they swelled with mirth, and even seemed to be laughing. All common sense leaving me, I jumped backwards and turned to run, but was stopped by the voice that had caused all of this.

“Hahaha! I knew there was more to you! Your raw strength is indeed unparalleled on a monstrous scale. Tell me, have you ever run into a dilemma of this nature?” Malik's voice, unmistakably, stopped me mid sprint and with a mixture of hope and horror I turned confirm that he was indeed alive and well standing straight. No broken limbs, no broken neck, and no crushed jaw maimed his form.

“No... no no no no! I just killed you, you're dead!” I looked on in wonder, tears of what I believe were relief.

“Now now, my dear I promise it would take a substantial amount more of damage to put me into the ground. Fear not, I am unharmed. Besides, it was my desire to bring about this outcome and I must say that I am indeed pleased with the results. I apologize for any trauma. It was rude of me.”

I did not know what to think at all. Why was he commending my strength when he so easily evaded death from my strongest blow? “And you couldn't have asked me beforehand to demonstrate?” I growled, growing angry from the unwanted trip to past memories.

“Yes, I could have. But I am quite sure in the fact that you harbor some memories that would disallow such a show of strength in your right mind. Am I wrong?” He started walking to the house at the edge of the field, stopping momentarily to see if I was following. When I said nothing, aside from letting my scowl speak for itself, he continued. “Follow me, and I shall attempt to answer any questions you may have. I believe I have a bit of information you would very much want to hear.

Despite myself, I followed him.

“Somehow, I think you knew I would not take this seriously.” I groaned

“I also gave warning that you would have to take what I said in the mindset of not a skeptic but of a dreamer. Sure, it seems impossible, but could you sit there and inform me that I am not real? That all you have experienced is fiction? Do not dubiously throw aside the only full explanation you will likely receive.”

The tea, or so I guessed it was (I did not ask, but it tasted peculiar), aided in calming my racing heart, but did little to soften the blow of the information that was dumped upon me. “Sorry, but I hope you realize that anyone from my world would find it very hard to believe someone who was telling them that they were now a resident of a magical world not unlike a fairy tale.”

“Such a statement is relative is it not? If I were to find myself in your reality, would it not appear to me as fiction or a dream? I understand your skepticism, but please bear with me. Now, any questions?” He set down his empty glass and began to pour himself a second helping of the golden liquid.

“Why I'm here? And no 'destiny' BS.” I too reached for another glass. Mysterious liquid or not, it was delicious and refreshing.

“Destiny? Bah, such nonsense is a childish claim. We forge our own paths, we are not destined for anything. Though this is one inquiry I have not the knowledge to answer. I have my theories, and some may or may not be quite solid, but they are not ones I am willing to share unless I am absolutely sure. According to what you have told me concerning the circumstances of your arrival, I would say that you are... excuse me.” He got an expression of enlightenment on his face and stood up before walking out of the room. Curious to see what that was about, I stood as well and made to follow him. “Please re seat yourself, I will not be but a moment.

“Crazy mysterious bastard.” I huffed to myself as I sat back down. Another glass full of tea later, I was welcomed with the slam of a hard leather-bound tome on the wooden table which groaned from the use.

He spent several moments flipping aged pages in search of something. When he apparently found it, he spun it around so that I could see it. “Do you recognize this mural?”

My brow lifted when I saw what it was. A charcoal drawing of the stained glass window from the castle filled the page. It was accompanied by wear with smudges here and there, but there was no doubt about it. “This. This is what he pushed me through. It's the last thing I remember before waking in this world.”

Malik nodded sagely as he turned the book back towards himself. “This definitely explains how you got here. There are two goddesses who rule over a country across the sea. The one depicted in this work is of the moon. Luna. Her sister, Celestia, is of the Sun. Together they rule as princesses. But that is beside the point. Both have powerful magic and they are formidable, but it can be used against them in a case such as this.

“Magic is not something one can call their own. It resides in objects, plants, the earth, the air, et cetera. When a large collection of magic resides in one area, it can be used as a way point for travel through space. In theory it can be used for short distance travel or trans dimensional travel, it all depends upon the power of either being. However, this mode is very unreliable and unpredictable. The margin of the space you arrive in is large, though it will be relatively close. But time is another variable, so one could very well appear several years from the time he wished. Are you following?” He stopped his lecture with a glance towards me. I was so very confused, but despite myself I was interested and nodded for him to continue.

“I would venture a guess that this is what your Jareb character attempted to do in order to invade this world. It would also explain why he arrived a good seven years before you did-”

I spit out my mouthful, and looked at him incredulously. “Seven years!? But I went through before him.”

“As I said, the time intervals are entirely random.”

“But if he's here, then I need to find him!”

“That will indeed be an issue. He instigates hit and run tactics, appearing when he sees fit and soon disappears entirely when he is finished. He and his little group are notorious but so little is known about them.” The mess cleaned up, he sat back down in his chair and settled for a buttered piece of bread with a slice of cheese on top. “I understand your concern, but as you are, you will not be terribly” successful in your dealings with him.”

“But that bastard killed my parents! He tortured me, and cut off my arm! He mutilated my whole life, and I will not sit idly by if there is a chance I could get revenge.” A stood from my chair and slammed my fists on the table, to get my point across

He chuckled lightly before issuing any response. “That's what I'm here for. I will aid you in your endeavor, but know that your justice will have to wait in a long line of people this man has wronged. You are merely the first of his targets among many he as victimized. A good portion of this world's population would love to get their hands on him. But I digress. Will you accept my help?”

“I hope you realize that I have no obligation to believe anything you've said up to this point. You are a stranger in a strange world after all. But my gut is telling me that I can trust you to an extent.” I stepped away from the table and turned to leave. “I will sleep on it.”

He chuckled again. I was started to hate it because he somehow made it sound so condescending. “As you should. It is late and the sun has long since retired. I have a spare bed if you do not have prior arrangements. You are free to make use of it.”

“Thanks but no thanks. I don't trust you that much.” When he made no reply aside from a defeated sigh, I exited his humble abode, and began my stroll back to the town's hospital. The only thought on my mind was what Jareb had called me. A homunculus. Just what was that? What exactly was I?

Author's Note

I do sorely loathe it when people sugar coat things. Please, let me know how I can improve my writing and do be honest.