Bastian did nothing but gain ownership of her. Alot would have been explained if Bastian hadnt taken off the minute ge had her. There was no time to explain what I had in mind so I've tried to put some of the information in my posts. No Liz's collar isnt a temporary thing. No Liz doesnt have a debt that can be paid off. She told him when he offered her freedom in exchange for her help that he was making a promise that he might not be able to keep but she was willing to try to help him despite not seeing how she could. Removing the collar isnt something any mage can do. It powerful magic and I doubt Bastian can afford to pay one to do it. No one can remove the collars but the head mage. Only he kniws the spell. This is to keep criminals in check so that they cant just pay to have it removed. Yes I suppose it would be possible for a slave to change their appearance if the found a way to pay to have it done but it would be pointless unless they got the collar off. Changing owners is easy. I am sure that slaves are stole all the time. Their criminals which means they have skills most people dont. Those skills can be useful. I dont see what that matters unless someone plans to try to steal Liz. 

I get that Liz only has to ask the right person the right questions. What you dont understand is that Liz is a sheltered naive girl who has no clue what questions to ask. So all i can have her do is walk into this building and start asking everyone if they are the bladed beauty. Which would be stupid. But if thats what you want Liz to do than thats what she will do. But logically that will only draw more attention to the blade beauty and Liz. I've wrote and read about people like who I imagine this woman to be. Im trying to find a logical way for a clueless young woman to find someone who doesnt want to be found. 

I dont understand this curse. But I can see it is going to cause problems. I am fine with drama as long as it helps the characters grow. I am undecided if thus curse does that yet. Once again you seem to have a very specific idea of what is going to happen. I am trying to follow your lead but honestly I dont think I am doing that well.