Prologue: Rough Starts

The thought of losing someone is saddening, scary, maybe even intimidating. However, for Rodin, there was never anyone to lose. Soon after Rodin was born, his parents fell ill and over time they became just another victim to the plague that quickly spread throughout the land. Rodin still a child was taken in by an old, bitter woman. Netta had only gray hair that would never look decent, her eyes that were once a blue faded to a blackish gray. Her intentions for Rodin were never pure, she never wanted to see him successful or of higher status than her. Once Netta herself fell ill to the plague, Rodin saw an opportunity, he stole what he could carry and took to the streets. Rodin knew that Netta wouldn't need anything anymore and thought it was better he have it than the city guard.

Rodin knew he was in no position to negotiate for he was only ten and now alone. So, when the merchant offered 30 Rulis he gladly accepted however he knew this would not last long, Rodin was now a resident of the streets. Only a month after Rodin sold his "inheritance" he found himself in need of Rulis, for a while he scoured the streets looking for any sign of work or opportunities. Hours passed and the sun faded to the horizon and the moon began to wake from its slumber. Rodin felt hopeless finding nothing throughout the day. As he began to travel back to the dark alley he called home, he noticed a dim light, one from a fading torch. Quietly he made his way towards the light finding that it was behind a locked door. Desperate, Rodin knocked, he could hear muffled voices and footsteps that slowly became louder. The door slowly creaked open as a man looked through the crack. A bright shade of brown with specks of an amber shade peered at Rodin.

"Yes?" the voice was deep and the man sounded rough.

"I've been looking for work, I've had no luck and my pouch of Rulis has gone dry." Rodin knew if he looked sad he would tempt the emotions of those more charitable. However, the man did not fall for such an act.

"I have nothing for you." He began to close the door.

"Wait! I'm not scared of hard work and I'll take a job others may find too difficult. I learn quick and my skillset grows day by day."

After a moment of silence, the man sighed long and hard, "Fine, however, if the watch is drawn to me in any way we will have a problem. Be here tomorrow as the sun fades." Rodin simply nods and begins his way home.