A Bold Claim

*This chapter is part of "The Small Town Magic Arc." This saga began with Chapter 134*

"I was born with my powers, although they skip generations." Jahno replied with a smirk. "I have never met this Glicko you speak of, but apparently there is a story here. Do tell me what this fellow has done to become your archenemy."

"He has put a curse into the world that mutates people into monsters, my ex-wife being one of his victims." The Pirate answered. "He claims that it only happens to those who choose to do evil. Even so, people should not be forced to choose their conduct to avoid mutating."

"He wiped my memories, but left me with the knowledge that he is the one responsible." Cerissa added.

"My memories were also taken away, except for the fact that Glicko is the one who stole them." Essie said. "Cerissa and I have no memories of our past, and we are currently relearning our magic."

"Glicko kidnapped my parents to test his curse on them, based on their pure hearts." Rick said. "They were unaffected by the curse, but he won't release them due to them knowing about his plans."

"Wow, this guy really did a number on you all!" Jahno laughed gleefully. "So that's why you were so eager to face me, you thought I would bring you closer to this Glicko! Well I hate to disappoint you, but like I said, I have no connection to him whatsoever. If I did, he probably would have cursed me too!"

"Shut up." The Pirate said calmly, promptly stopping Jahno's laughter. "Yes, we would have loved to have gotten one step closer to stopping Glicko, but we came here to help Tamma regardless."

"Thank you." Tamma said softly, wiping her tears as Rick and Essie went to her side to support her.

"You know, I kind of like you guys." Jahno smiled. "Maybe I don't know your pal Glicko, but what if I told you that I have the capability of undoing all of the terrible things he did to you all?"

"I would say you're a liar, just like you've been doing to your own flesh and blood." The Pirate said heatedly.

"I assure you, I am being completely honest with you." Jahno said, no longer speaking in a mocking tone. "I can break the curse on your ex easily. I sense that curse within your own blood Pirate, and I could easily remove it. It would also be child's play for me to restore the memories of your mages, and return the teenage boy's folks back to him. However, I won't do these things for free. Shall we make a truce Pirate?"

To be continued....