CHAPTER 16: Not a Thief

Anden adapts to life in Port Massy, noting the city’s diversity and discovering a covert Green Bone presence in Southtrap. He learns locals like Dauk Corujon hide their jade in Espenia, where public display would invite trouble, and he grows curious yet keeps his distance, still burdened by his own status as jade-averse.

Late in summer, Anden accidentally takes a nearly identical bicycle from a park rack. The owner, Carson Sunter, chases him, accuses him of theft, and hurls insults. Anden’s apology is rejected, pride and honor flare, and the confrontation becomes a fistfight.

Rusty after time away from training, Anden struggles at first but regains form, outmaneuvering Carson and forcing a concession. Bystanders intervene before Carson can say the words Anden demands, and a nearby Kekonese onlooker rebukes Anden for causing trouble.

Carson departs with violent threats, vowing revenge. Returning home bruised, Anden explains to the Hians, who warn that Espenian law forbids dueling and will not honor an outcome won by combat. They fear retaliation or extortion regardless of fault.

Recognizing the limits of Espenian legal norms for resolving an honor dispute, the Hians decide the best protection is to bring the matter to their local Pillar, signaling Anden’s unintended entry into the neighborhood’s Green Bone sphere.