Kaidus hovered high above the 11^th ward. He had flown straight to Zorin Academy upon entering Ferrent. In the darkness, his cloak blended in with the night and concealed his descent onto the academy farmlands.

He did not know how long the trip was going to take when he first set off, but only 12 days had passed since he left on that night. The ryes should have just ended, and class will begin again tomorrow. Flying all night for all those days had worn him out, but he was happy that he made such good time.

“Rrrargar!” Zeeke greeted him as he stealthily entered the academy gates in the middle of the night.

“Shhh!” He attempted to hush the gate seer. Zeeke stopped and looked at him curiously. “I’ll bring you something tomorrow. Please be quiet for now.”

“Rarrrr!” It replied happily. The spirit hushed up and enthusiastically followed him as he made his way to the west side of the academy as if to guard him, only stopping after he had entered the lodging house.

*BANG BANG BANG!* Kaidus woke up to the sound of banging.

“Kaidus?” someone asked from the other side of his door.

Quickly putting on a new shirt and trouser, he made his way to the door. “Yes?” A familiar man stood on the other side.

“The headmaster would like to see you. Please see him in his studies.” The man was one of headmaster Nylen’s assistants.

“When am I to meet him?”

“As soon as possible. The headmaster will be waiting.” Having delivered the headmaster’s summon, the man promptly took off.

‘That old man…’ He thought to himself.

Having not washed up after getting to his room last night, Kaidus refreshed himself before donning a new set of clothes. Without a need to hide himself, Zion was back in ring form and on his finger. Kaidus made his way to the marble building in the north side of the academy—where the perplexing headmaster was waiting for him.

‘That note was a longshot, but surely he couldn’t have realized what is going on… and I never mentioned when I would be returning, how did he know?’ He wondered as he trudged across the academy grounds, pondering about the odd summon.

Passing through the doors of the marble building where the headmaster resides, an attendant led him to the old man’s study.

*KNOCK KNOCK*

“Headmaster, Kaidus is here.” the attendant called out.

“Good, come in.”

“You wanted to see me?” Kaidus asked, entering the room.

“Yes yes. Come and sit down.” Headmaster Nylen motioned to the chair across from his desk.

Kaidus took the seat, unsure about the old man’s objective this time.
First it was a night ambush, second was the council, then the invitation from the Mystiks guild, now this. Every time they met up, something was bound to happen.

The old man stacked his papers, then laid them down neatly onto the desk. “Did you have a productive leave of absence?”

“I did.”

“Good. Glad to hear it.” The old man brought up his earthen arm and intertwined it with his other, setting them on the desk. “Is everything okay?” the old man questioned, looking him in the eyes.

“Yes.” Kaidus replied, confused at the question.

“Has anything strange happened around you?”

“No. Nothing out of the ordinary.”

“Well, that’s good to hear. I thought that with your sudden absence, something had come up.” The old man replied, pulling out the note Kaidus had left with Zeeke.

“No. After our discussion, I took the time off in case my family might be in danger. Nothing’s happened so far. Sorry for the sudden disappearance.”

“I understand, and I’m glad nothing has happened.” The old man smiled. “I called you here today, because I wanted to share some news with you and see if there was anything else you may have recalled since our last conversation.”

“I’ve told you everything, headmaster. I don’t see how I can be of any more help.” Kaidus replied.

“I see…” the old man paused for a moment. “Here, take a look at these.”

Headmaster Nylen pushed a stack of paper toward Kaidus.
The top of the stack was a picture of a man’s face. Behind the picture was a report of the pictured individual, detailing who they are and what they’ve done.

A short haired man with well-groomed facial hair and hollow cheeks.

“Rasiur Vaethol, 47, Known agent of Tal’hrus…. Apprehended twenty-six days ago in the outskirts of a small village that he and his team were burning to the ground… The Mystiks guild barely managed to get there in time to save a handful of survivors… Fifteen bodies found dead in the village, another twenty-four charred carcasses were excavated from the ashes: men, women, children… Objective was a silver mine recently discovered two turns ago by the locals…. With a group of ten that killed six members of the guild during their pursuit before being captured. Currently held in 12^th ward’s Mystiks guild. Interrogation is left with Master Luliene… ”

One after another, he looked through the papers, etching their faces and deeds into his mind.
Murders, assassinations, trafficking, kidnapping, slavery, blackmail, senseless destruction, irrational killings, etc…
He seared everything into himself.

He stopped in front of a woman.
The women had a scar on her face, sharp eyes, and dark black hair.

“Elora Brile, 32. Agent of Tal’hrus.
Caught hiding in Ferrent’s 7^th ward: Soqu 28, Zanaeos 1250… killed herself before being captured.” He stopped.
“Headmaster… This… is this correct?” He pointed to the date.

“Yes.”

“This just happened days ago!?” He shouted in shock.

“Yes.” The old man replied solemnly.

He quickly looked through the remaining pages and saw that the reports that came after the woman were all from Ferrent. Altogether, five agents were found in the common wards. Three killed themselves after being surrounded, while two were successfully captured and have been interrogated.
Kaidus stacked the papers then pushed them back to the headmaster.

“Do you recognize any of them?” The headmaster asked.

“I do not.”

“I see. That’s unfortunate.” The old man began silently looking through the reports once again. “You see, after our last discussion, I sent letters to all three Mystiks guild… We did an undisclosed sweep throughout all of Ferrent, and those five agents were all we found.”

“Is there something wrong with that?”

“Yes. The problem is, Tal’hrus never operates in such low number. Each agent is capable, but they always operate with more than enough people to secure the greatest chance of accomplishing their missions. On the off chance that there is strong resistance, it is convenient to be able to attack from various directions.”

Headmaster Nylen pulled out a picture from the stack. It was one of the agents who had been captured. “Two days ago, this man here revealed that half their unit vanished along with their team leader while moving in to secure their target. He said six people stayed in Ferrent on stand by while another three returned to headquarters.” The headmaster spoke while watching him. “Do you have any idea who or what their target was?”

“I’m guessing it was me?”

“I believe it was. The man did not know who you are, all he knew was that the group was after a young boy with healing magic.”

… The room became silent.

“Kaidus…” The old man paused as if to recollect his thoughts. “I am going to ask you something, and I would like you to be honest with me.” Headmaster Nylen spoke, looking him straight in the eyes. The usual atmosphere had vanished. The old man was very serious.

“Go ahead.”

“Do you know what happened to those men?”

“No headmaster, I do not.” A natural reply, unperturbed by the question that was too close to the truth.

“I see… sorry about that. You can go now.”

“Then I will take my leave.”

“Kaidus.” The old man spoke as he got up. “Don’t underestimate Tal’hrus. Just because they haven’t done anything, does not mean they will stay that way. Be wary of your surroundings and those around you.” The old man gave him one last warning.

“I understand.”

 

***

 

In his study, Malizur Nylen Gvius Das Jozion was putting the pieces together after the boy had left.

He knew too well, the methods of Tal’hrus.
There was no way that they would have left the boy alone after he refused to join them. The boy was too much of a threat. They must’ve considered that he could join the Mystiks guild and work against Tal’hrus.

There were only two ways of escaping Tal’hrus’ grasp after such a thing: death, or the overwhelming abilities that would serve to repel the organization from taking any actions—he himself was one such individual.

The boy was not dead, so it was definitely the latter. But if that was the case, then the interrogated agents would have known, and they would have moved onto the next best thing: the boy’s family. Yet, that did not happen either.

‘He showed no reactions for the agents we caught… even surprised that some were apprehended only days ago within Ferrent…’ Headmaster Nylen paused his thoughts. “But he knows something about the disappearance of the agents…” He voiced the thought out loud.
Although the child denied it, his senses told him otherwise.

“Could he have done it? Could the child have killed half a unit of trained Tal’hrus agents by himself, then hid the bodies somewhere?” Headmaster Nylen wondered, then suddenly recalled his first encounter with the boy. The dreaded eyes filled with hatred and anger, ready to tear him limb from limb as he sat there coughing and bleeding.
He stroked his earthen arm, remembering the cost of what he did.

‘Something did not add up… The boy’s leave of absence came after the disappearance of the Tal’hrus agents…There is something else missing… Something I have yet to understand…’ Headmaster Nylen thought to himself.

 

***

 

“Welcome back. Where’ve you been?” Mirat asked as Kaidus joined them for lunch.

“Home.”

“Did something happen?”

He had been gone for all seven days of school for the last learning period. Of course they were curious about his absence. Currently at the table were: Larant, Jorva, Kaidus who just joined them, and Mirat. Prim and Lisin weren’t there.

“No. Just spending extra time with my family.” Kaidus answered, sitting down to eat his lunch.

“Oh…” Mirat stopped and resumed his own lunch.

“You go home every ryes. Why do you need to spend extra time with your family?” Jorva who was sitting beside him asked.

“I had something to do. Staying home while I took care of it was easier.” Kaidus replied, giving a vague answer.

“And that something is???”

“Nothing.” Kaidus gave a friendly smile to Jorva before putting a spoonful of food into his mouth.

The other boys could see that Kaidus did not want to talk about it.
“Fine.” Jorva dropped the topic, moving onto a different one. “Have you guys notice something odd ever since the last learning period?”

“““No. No. Nope.””” They all replied.

“Doesn’t it seem that there are more Mystiks guild members out and about than before? I saw at least thirteen members of the guild over the ryes. Something’s probably going on in Ferrent.” Jorva explained.

“Now that you mention it, I did see a couple guild members coming around, asking my father something.” Larant added.

“Yours too?” Jorva had a look of surprise on his face.

“Is it rare for the guild to do such a thing?” Kaidus investigated, joining in on the talk.
He knew what it was about, but there was no point in telling. It would just raise questions.

“Not really I guess, but Lord Varath has no affiliation with the Mystiks guild. It was just surprising.” Jorva answered.
Jorva’s statement was understandable. Nobles who were without magic had little to do with the Mystiks guild. Lacking the abilities and the understandings that would be beneficial to the guild where magic was concerned, the two parties rarely intermingle when it came to official matters. 

“Maybe it’s something else?” Mirat threw in. “Like you said, maybe something is happening in Ferrent?”

“Could be… but what?” Jorva agreed.

“No point worrying about it.” Larant chimed in. “Why not ask your father next time the ryes comes around?” Without waiting for a reply from Jorva, “Mirat. You’re taking Intermediate Supplementation of mana, right?” He questioned.

“I am.”

“When does Beginner’s Supplementation start learning how to utilize the mana from Lagus?”

“You don’t really learn how to utilize it in Beginners.” Mirat answered. “The first half of beginners is all theoretical lessons and understanding the process along with the risks and benefits. Absorption is taught in the second half. Using will be at the end of the year, and only as a test.” Mirat explained.

“I see… You’re in intermediate now. I assume it wasn’t hard?”

“Depends on how well you do. I failed the first time…” Mirat answered sullenly.

“Sorry. I just thought you didn’t take it your first year.”

“It’s fine. I thought I understood the concept and the process, but doing it was quite difficult. I was able to purify the raw mana that I siphoned from Lagus using my own mana, but I was unable to cast a spell with the purified mana during the test.” Mirat gave a recollection of his failure.

“At least you passed last year right?” Larant attempted to cheer him up.

“Yea.”

“Mirat, how much of the raw mana are you able to purify?” Kaidus joined in.

“Right now, the masters say it’s less than .4%…”

“You’re kidding…” Jorva muttered from his spot at the table.

“Hey, .4% is a lot for me!” Mirat retorted. “Even with spirits that are pretty much mana incarnate, they can only purify a third of the mana at best. Using my own mana to make usable a measly .4%, I’d say it’s pretty good considering my lack of skills. It’s either go with that, or use the raw mana and become mad with power.”

“I thought the requirement for passing was at least 1% purification?” Jorva asked.

“No. The test consists of tapping into Lagus, absorbing its power, purifying it, then using it. As long as you can do all four, then you pass no matter the amount you can purify on your own.”

“How do the masters know you’ve succeeded? Isn’t all that within your own control?” Larant questioned.

“The purified mana is different. Just the feel of it as it courses through your body for a second is incredible. Even with just a measly .4%, I felt like I was a new person. Like a real mage. I can understand why mages would risk using the raw unprocessed mana even if it cost them their mind.”
Mirat knew he was weaker than the other students in his year.
His abilities were far from adequate in his mind, and he was also one of the few third years who was still taking a beginners class. Usually by their third year, most students were in all intermediate classes, working toward advanced.

“You planning on breaking your mind?” Jorva joked.

“No.” Mirat smiled then stood up and put one foot where he was sitting. “I am Mirat Raesu Klivus, the first in three generations to be born with mana! I carry the dreams of my forefathers, how can I face my great grandfather if I was consumed by the greed for power?” He struck a gallant pose then grinned. “No. I will stand tall and work my way to the top, using the strength bestowed upon me by my parents. Step by step, spell by spell. I will prove myself, and tower over my peers.” Finished with his speech, Mirat sat back down. The grin still plastered all over his face.

“Hahahaha!” Larant burst out. “You and me both, Mirat. People who are gifted like Jorva and Kaidus wouldn’t understand.”
Larant knew exactly how Mirat felt. He himself was also the first in two generations. Although his father Lord Alzin Varath does indeed have mana, his father lacked the abilities and capacity for true magic, stagnating as a Mahj—the lowest ranks of a mages. He himself was a true mage, and was here at the academy to bring honor to the Varath house.

“I don’t know whether to take that as a jest, an insult, or a compliment.” Jorva interjected.

“You can take it however you want.” Larant replied with a wily grin.

“Good, you are all still here!” A familiar voice called to them.

Looking to his side, Kaidus saw two girls were approaching their table. The emerald princess: the beautiful Prim Lithius, and a beauty with short brown hair that came down to her shoulders: Lisin Rhonorus.

“Council business running overtime?” Jorva asked.

“Ugh… I can’t believe we’re having this much problems barely two turns into the term.” Prim answered with a tinge of glum in her voice.
Although only a 3^rd year student, her outstanding progress and skills had caught the attention of the masters. Not taking into account her humiliating defeat at the hands of Kaidus last term, she was definitely one of the brightest student in the academy.

“And just last year you were so jealous of Kaidus’ position in the Council.” Lisin spoke, giggling with a smile on her face.

Kaidus laughed at what Lisin had revealed.
Lisin was not a council member but being Prim’s closest friend, they were inseparable. Surprisingly, she was betrothed to Larant six years ago, but with the sudden awakening of her magic four years ago, her parents had called off the engagement. The group had learned about it after relentlessly questioning about how the two knew each other.

“Lisin, I told you that in confidence!” Prim admonished her friend.

“It was quite obvious.”

“Yep…” Both Jorva and Mirat added.

“You should have seen your face when you learned that you had been recruited into the council. It was probably one of the happiest faces I’ve seen.” Lisin grinned at her friend.

“You… traitorous… AH! Whatever! Fine! I’ll admit, I was jealous then. But now, I don’t know anymore. 1^st chair Alexus has us new members doing everything he thinks is too troublesome, and 2^nd Chair Val is missing half the time. I don’t even think they want to do their jobs anymore…” Prim conceded, voicing out her misery.

“Sounds just like Val and Alexus.” Inside, he was laughing his heart out. “Good thing someone capable like you joined them.” Kaidus added with a chuckle.
Alexus and Val were the 5^th and 6^th chair the previous year when he was in the council. He was 7^th chair, and three other 4^th years were 8 to 10^th chair.

After a year of laboring and solving other people’s problems, no one wanted to become 1^st and 2^nd chair and take charge for this year. Abiding by the rules, previous council members are to elect a 1^st and 2^nd chair from their members for the position, and he had nominated both Alexus and Val.
Those two had gotten lazy over the year, and were delegating most of their work to him because of his abilities. It was his own little friendly payback. Chairs 1-4 were all 6^th years at the time and were all leaving the academy anyways, so they didn’t vote. Many of the members also agreed with his opinions about how lazy the two had become, so as punishment, they were voted for another year. Of course the council had its perks, but nothing beats the freedom to do as he wished.

“You two aren’t eating?” Larant asked the girls.

“Lisin brought me lunch and we ate in the council room while I finished up.” Prim replied.

“A little late to be joining us isn’t it? 3^rd class is about to start.” Jorva spoke up.

“Right. Kaidus.” Prim turned to him.

“Yes?”

“Can you meet me later in the eastern grounds? I’ve been wanting to test something and am curious to see how you would deal with it.”

“Sure. I’ll be heading to the library, but I can meet you there after your 3^rd class is over.”

Adalina finished cleaning the kitchen and entered the living room, only to see her daughter in a sullen mood.

Anise was quietly turning the pages of one of Kaidus’ book.

The girl had waited for Kaidus all evening the previous day, but he never came back. It seems school was keeping him busy.

“Cheer up darling, I’m sure Kaidus will be back as soon as he is free.” She reassured her daughter. “How about we go out and get you some of those sweet mulse cakes you love?” Adalina asked as she picked up the girl.

“Uhn…”

“Let me finish my letter and we’ll go. Okay?”

“Kay Mommy.”

The little girl attempted to give her a strong reply, but she knew her daughter was sadden that Kaidus had not returned. Adalina gave her daughter a hug, bringing the girl along with her upstairs.

Setting Anise on the bed, Adalina continued her letter.

She was turning 29 this year. It has been almost 15 years—half her life—ever since she had run away from home on that fateful day by the riverbanks.

With that single decision, she had left her life in the village of Nultulk behind. She lost her mother, father, siblings, and friends, along with any connections or contacts to them.

Her subsequent years with the mercenary had her yearning for home, but she was afraid of what may happen if she returned to them. She feared that her family would scorn her, thinking she had ran away because of the sweet words of a dashing mercenary.

With the birth of Kaidus, her worries vanished and her yearning for home slowly disappeared.

Only after Kaidus left the house to attend the academy, did she realize how painful it was to see someone whom you’ve poured all your love into ever since they were born leave your side. It was heart wrenching. Although he was only going to the academy, that first night when he left, she had stayed up half the night crying while Troyle tried to console her.

He was too young to be apart from them, but she knew he was a brilliant child. She knew he would be wasting his potential if he did not grasp at the opportunities offered to him. It was why she told him to enter Zorin academy after he had refused the invitation. The inquisitive look he gave her that day, a look of not wanting to leave her side was seared into her eyes. He was truly a gentle child.

Her quill moved endlessly, writing whatever came to her mind.

The letter was for her formerly estranged parents.

The previous year, a few days after Kaidus had left for the academy, she had sent a letter to the village of Nultulk. She hoped against all odds that it would find her family.

Four turns ago, she received a reply from her mother. As she expected, the letter encompassed all the disappointments the family felt, and her mother even noted that her father did not want to even acknowledge her selfishness with a reply. After persuading him, her mother was able to draw up a reply, seeing how she was now herself a mother of two and understood their feelings.

Not only did the letter tell her of how heartbroken the family was at her actions, it conveyed to her how worried they had been, and how happy they are from hearing that she was alive. That they were truly glad she was safe and was happy.

Her younger brother who was only 10 when she left was now already a father of three himself. Her youngest sister who was only 7 at the time, was also now married with two children.

Ever since that reply, she had been sending letters to her parents, keeping in touch with them.

This letter was another of those.
Finished, she dabbed away any excess ink with a cloth and folded the letter before sealing it with wax.

Turning to look at her daughter, the girl was patiently waiting.

“Let’s go.” Adalina smiled at her daughter.

 

…

 

“Five shweet cakesh pleashe!” Anise told the lady who was running the bakery.

“Hello, little Anise.” The woman greeted back, giving her a sweet smile. “Good morning, Adalina.

“Good morning Beine. Here’s 2 and 4 for the cakes.” Adalina replied, placing the money on the counter. 2 erns, and 4 kuis.

“Thank you.” The woman thanked as she picked up five palm sized mulse cakes and placed them into a piece of cloth. “Here’s another for always coming by.” The woman added a sixth cake before tying up the piece of cloth and handing it to Adalina.

“Thank you.”

“Thank you!” Anise also gave her thanks.

“Please come again.” The lady saw them off with a smile.

Back out on the street, Adalina untied the cloth and handed one of the cakes to Anise.

Taking it, Anise delightedly enjoyed her snack. Her sullen mood from earlier was already gone as she bore into the fluffy cake.

Enjoying one herself, Adalina held her daughter’s hand as they moved away from the shopping district and towards more of the community district where the library, community center, and delivery hall resides.

 

—

 

A young girl with long brown hair tied into a ponytail was in her room. She was swinging around a blunt metal practice sword, customized to fit her small build.

She swung it with raw, unrefined finesse as she practiced the eight forms taught to her. A fire burned inside of her as she moved, weaving, spinning, piercing, and slashing. She wore tight fitting clothes that were unusual for a young lady of her status, and swung her sword with a sense of purpose.

She was Naleen, the daughter of renowned swordsman Huin Xoras Ravon, and her venerated grandfather was Gelrin Teralt Ravon, Royal Knight Commander of the 11th ward knights.

Her newfound interest in swords started half a year ago due to envy, but she was now earnestly practicing it.

Ever since meeting the strange boy, she had been hearing many things about him from her grandfather. Praises that went beyond any that he had ever given her or her older brother. Her grandfather had even liken the commoner boy to himself as someone who was surely to become a pillar of strength. That: “The boy will one day be the prosperity of Ferrent with his name known throughout Darsus, and maybe even the world”. Her grandfather had never openly declare such admiration to a commoner before.

Wishing for such praises but too young for her magic, she could do nothing about it. With some deliberation, she instead begged her father to teach her the sword. It did not require her to know magic, and she did not know if she would be like her brother who was already 17 and still magic-less.

As if heredity in being born into a family of knights, she took to it extremely well.

After learning for only a couple turns, even her grandfather had praised her budding skills as a swordswoman, motivating her to continue her training.

Naleen lowered her body.
She fell into a guard stance then transitioned to a parry stance before unleashing a flurry of slashes awkwardly against an invisible foe. She evaded and bobbed around, countering the invisible opponent while putting into practice what her father had taught her.  

‘Guard, slash, strike, thrust, evade, kick, thrust, kick, evade, backwards transition, parry’ the movements resounded in her head as she attempts to adapt each motion, trying to make it flow into the next.

*knock knock* Without waiting for a reply, the door opened and her mother walked in. “Naleen, your teacher is here. Go get ready and meet her at the entrance. I hear you two will be going outside today.”

“May I refresh myself first?” She asked, putting down her practice sword.

“Of course darling, pick one of your dresses for walking and head to the washroom. I’ve already had the servants draw a bath for you.” Her mother replied with a gentle smile.

Her mother had been against her education in the art of swordplay, and had wanted her to grow up to become a proper lady like all the other young girls. Being surrounded by such respectful male figureheads, she had grown up to be more of a tomboy than what her mother had expected. But with her strong sense of justice and incessant begging, her mother had relented, allowing her to learn swordsmanship from her father.

Naleen went up to her dresser and picked out a dress then quickly left the room.

Sitting on the top of the dresser, in a small earthen cup, a crystal flower bloomed beautifully.

 

…

Naleen and her teacher were currently strolling through the 11th ward shopping district. They had taken a carriage to get there, but now they were walking through the streets, just taking in the atmosphere. Their little trip had been the result of learning about the economy, and this was a hands-on experience to teach Naleen how money moves from hand to hand.

The majority of those who were out and about were servants running errands for their masters, but like Naleen and her teacher, quite a few nobles were also walking around.

“Naleen!” A voice called from behind her as they made their way through the streets. Turning around, an older girl three years her senior was coming up to them.

“Hi Jillian.” Naleen greeted the older girl.

The older girl was a tall and beautiful girl, having hit her growth spurt. With long dark blue hair and sporting a dashing smile, Naleen secretly wished for such beauty.

“Mistress Naleen, I’ll be over here if you need me.” Her teacher gave her a smile before sidestepping toward a shop to peruse the displays on the window, leaving her alone with the older girl.

“Outdoor class with your educator?” The older girl asked.

“Yea… economics.” She replied. “What are you doing here?” She asked the older girl.

Jillian Varath, the eldest daughter of the Varath house.

Their parents worked together on many transactions pertaining to trade and for the welfare of Ferrent, so they’ve met each other many times along with the younger sister Sylvia.

Naleen herself liked the Varath sisters. Being the sole daughter of the Ravon house, she envied the two.

It was always fun to watch Jillian beat back the other children’s who try to pick on Sylvia because of her timid nature. While not literally beating them up, with the silver tongue inherited from Lady Reanne Varath—her mother, Jillian could turn her pleasantries around and dish out invectives while revealing information that would most certainly make the bullying party cry.

“Out shopping for lunch.” The older girl grinned again.

“Alone? Why? Where are your servants?”

“About that… My mother has this new saying about doing things for ourselves. We’ve been coming here to buy grocery for quite a while. Sylvia and I are also learning how to cook and clean around the house.” Jillian explained, revealing a prideful smile. “But that’s not what I’m here to talk to you about.”

“Is Sylvia here too?” Naleen questioned, surprised at the explanation.

It was only two turns ago when they last talked, so this was all new to her.

“She’s with mother in one of the shops learning how to pick out vegetables.”

“Why does Sylvia need to learn how to pick out vegetables?” She inquired, curious about this sudden change.

“Mother said it would be a good skill for her to have when she is married off to the commoner boy from the 3rd ward.” Jillian answered.

“Eh?! Your parents are marrying Sylvia off to a commoner?!” She asked in shock.

“I wanted to talk to you about that. Can I ask you something?” Jillian closed in and whispered to her.

“W-What is it?”

“I heard your grandfather Lord Gelrin sponsors him. What do you know about the boy name Kaidus?”

Her mind flashed back to the insufferable and strange boy whom she had not seen for a whole year, but was always hearing about. The crystal flower on top of her dresser suddenly presented itself to her thoughts.

 

—

 

Oozing out of the ring around the little girl’s neck, it traveled through the shadows, making its way down the stairs. Its charges had already fallen asleep, and it was time to do the job given to it.

Hasen bore through the crevices of the doors, making its way into the darkness outside. Its body of smoke wafted through the air, traveling upwards to the roof of an adjacent building where two figures were hiding.

It had noticed them following its master’s family ever since the outing earlier. The figures gave off a sense of danger, and reeked of magic like the ones from before.

Without warning, Hasen struck from the darkness.

In an instant, both were dead without even putting up a fight. It consumed their bodies, leaving nothing behind.

Finished, Hasen traveled through the shadows, back into the house, returning to the girl’s side.

The entity listened motionlessly as its charge quietly slept. Ever since its master left nine days ago, it had been diligent in adhering to its master’s command.

‘Protect my family.’ Words never spoken before by its master.

 

—

 

“huu… *sniff* mother… father… no… please don’t leave me.” The first words it had ever heard. A deep sadness, echoing through Lagus. A childish voice filled with anguish and suffering had given the entity life, awaking it from oblivion.

“No!! Please don’t! NOOO!!” The second time it heard the voice.

The child’s scream tore through the veil that shrouded Lagus from the mortal realm. In that instant, it saw the death of countless mortals and amidst them all, a lone child, weeping for them.

“Why?! Why am I so weak!?!” A voice echoed through to the entity. The child was broken. Laying in a cell, the boy cried in muffled sobs, wishing for death. His will had been shattered, only anger at his weakness filled his mind. The intensity of his emotions resonating through Lagus.

“…Power…” It spoke to the young boy for the first time.

“W-who are you?” A weak and cautious reply.

“…Power… strength…” The entity spoke the words that echoed in the boy’s mind.

“Who are you?! What do you want?!” A frantic reply.

“…I am… yours… I am… power… call… me…”

… The child laid there in silence.

“… Hasen…” A single word from the child’s mouth, and they were bound.

A Rhas of shadow, newly birthed.

Its master, a broken boy, forsaken by the world.

 

—

 

Hasen drew itself out of the memories.

What it just reminisced was a time before its master had become corrupted at the beckoning of another—due to its lack of strength.

The entity was merely recalling its birth into the mortal realm.

A time when both master and elemental were both powerless lifeforms, learning how to deal with the world together. An age before its ascension into what it is now.

Hasen culled the memories from what could only be called its mind.

Their true enemy was still lurking within the world somewhere. The entity would not allow its master to once again, be manipulated into the pits of despair.

Having rested the morning and afternoon away, Kaidus was walking through the forest, searching for dinner. What he was after today was a derring boar that he had heard grunting and snarling through the forest while he was trying to sleep.

It’s been two days since his talk with Zavon and obtaining the mirror shard that was now in his shirt. He was also making good time getting back home.

Approaching his prey, Kaidus fanned out his mana to investigating his surroundings, making sure there were no predators in store for him.

Derring boars were small and only about the size of a dog, but they were extremely ferocious. With metal tusks half the size of their body and a bite that could sheer through rocks, derrings could even stand up to larger predators—three to four times their size—that share their territories. Unlike other species of boars, derrings were solitary, only seeking companions during the mating season and killing any would be competitions.

They have been known to kill many unlucky hunters.

Not sensing any other presence besides the boar, he stepped forward and looked through the thicket.

A derring was feeding on roots and plants, minding its own business. Adorned with a glossy coat of red and black, the animal sported two tusks of iron, gleaming as the rays of light that penetrated the forest canopy hit it. Kaidus willed the thicket to move aside and it obeyed, opening a path for him.

The boar noticed him almost instantly and turned to face him. Fur of red and black flared up and it charged, two sword-like tusks aiming outward to pierce him.

As the grunting boar closed in, he deftly caught the boar’s tusks. His body infused with mana, he stopped the boar in its tracks, then delivered a forceful blow into the boar’s head, killing it instantly.

Using the knife he bought from the village several days ago, he bled and skinned a part of the animal and sliced off a large chunk of meat. With a sturdy stick, he conjured a fire and began spit-roasting his dinner. Using the time it would take to cook, he made off into the forest to scrounge for any edible plant that may supplement his meal.

 

…

 

Night was descending, and he was enjoying his dinner of fire roasted boar meat and forest roots and greens.

The rustling of leaves could be heard again as he ate quietly.

He had already discouraged a pack of wolves that tried to steal his boar earlier, but this time was different. As it got closer, the sound of people brushing away leaves and hacking at branches as they rushed through the dense forest could be heard.

Sending out a wave of mana, three distinct presences were headed straight at him, followed by a larger group.

“Don’t do anything.” He commanded Zion.

Kaidus put on the cloak’s hood and stood his ground, waiting to see who in their right mind was this far away from the main roads. If they were bandits, he would deal with them before he sets off. The hood was to conceal his face in case they were hunters that had spotted his fire.

In the light of the fire, three men came out of the thickets.

A short older man wearing a leather jerkin, black trousers, and a head of long and graying unkempt hair. The man had a short sword and a couple of daggers at his waist.

The second was a stocky bald man. The man wore a pair of metal greaves, leggings, and chest plate but had no helmet or arm guards. He had a long two handed sword strapped on his back.

The third man was a skinny man wearing patched leather armor. He had a short bow, half a quiver of arrows and carried a short sword in his hand.

All three looked disheveled and exhausted.

The three looked at him in shock.

“Seize him!” The graying man commanded and the other two wrapped around to his sides, pointing their swords at him.

 

—

 

Armored in steel forged with magic fire, a man ran alongside his six subordinates who were wearing mercenary leather. He was already in his early 50s, but even in heavy armor, he ran swiftly—not falling behind the others.

They were chasing the leaders of a group of brigands.

Thurllton, a hunting town in northern Darsus had been plagued by bandits for the past two turns, and had commissioned the mercenary guild to get rid of the bandit infestation.

They found the hideout and eliminated most of the bandits eleven days ago, but the leader and a couple of his underlings escaped their grasps, vanishing into the forests. Splitting up their mercenary group, he had chosen to lead the hunting party and had been chasing them ever since.

After eleven arduous days, only 3 of the bandits remained. As they followed the direction of where the three fugitives had gone in the darkening forest, fire light could be seen up ahead.

“Prepare for an ambush.” He notified his subordinates as they approached the light.

In front of him were the three they had been chasing. “No matter how many reinforcements you have, the results will be the same! Give up!” He shouted, his tone deep and commanding. His men made a small formation beside him, ready for any surprises.

“I don’t know about that!” A man with long gray hair countered, stepping aside to reveal a small figure at sword point. “One move, and the boy gets it.”

“You-” He stopped.

‘What is going on here?! Why is there a boy here?!’ his mind shouted in confusion. A figure, small enough to be a young boy of 10 was cloaked in dark red with a hood that concealed the upper half of his face. The boy stood in the middle of the three bandits.

“I don’t know what you’re playing at, but let the boy go and I will give you a merciful death!” He shouted back. “You don’t want to do this!”

“You destroyed our hideout, killed our brethren, hounded us for days, and you expect us to just lie down and die?! NO! You move, and we will kill this boy right here!” The gray-haired bandit leader shouted. “I don’t know what the gods have in store for us, but this is undoubtedly a gift from them! You will all stay here and allow us to leave, or the boy joins us in the afterlife!”

“What do we do captain?” A subordinate asked from his side.

Taking a closer look at the figure, the small boy did not look scared nor was he nervous or shaken up. Instead, a calmness exuded from the small hooded figure.

‘Could this be a ploy?’ He wondered. ‘People like these have no qualms about killing children, but this boy could possibly be one of their own, planted here for this exact purpose. It is incomprehensible that a child would be here alone at this time of day.’ He persuaded himself.

Not yielding to the other party’s demands, he took a step forward.

“Stay back!” The bandit with a bow shouted, inching his sword ever closer to the boy’s throat.

He glanced at the boy once more. In the flickering light of the fire, he saw that the child’s mouth was curving upward into a smile. He hesitated for a second, then move forth with his gut feeling.

‘Sorry if I am wrong, but I cannot let these men go.’ He apologized to the boy in his mind and lunged forward, closing in on the bandit who was holding the sword to the boy’s throat.

“Helto-!” The bandit leader called out, then suddenly stopped.

His target attempted to jump back but froze for an instant. Not letting the chance slip, he brought his sword forth from a low angle and sliced upward in a half moon slash in front of him. The wiry bandit was cleanly cleaved in half.

His subordinates had also moved as soon as he made his attack. The bandit leader and the bald armored bandit to the side both fell without making a single sound.

“So much for being the leaders of their band of brigands, they didn’t even put up a fight.” His subordinates scoffed.

It was quite puzzling that they did not even attempt to defend themselves. Without a second glance at the three dead bandits, he turned toward the boy. “Are you alright?”

“Yes. Thank you.” A polite reply. A childish voice, befitting his small size.

“What are you doing here at this time of the day?” He asked the child, gesturing to the dark forest around him

“I am sorry, but I must be on my way. Thank you for your help.” The boy replied, taking a step toward the darkness.

A lone boy in the middle of these forests. The closest road was at least a day of walking distance away and dangerous animals roamed the forest. Yet here the child was, undaunted by everything that had just occurred around him. Something wasn’t right.

“Who are you, and what were you really doing here?” He pointed his sword at the boy, recalling the eerie smile earlier.

“Captain what are you doing!?” One of his subordinate called out at his actions.

“I’m not with them if that’s what you’re asking.” The boy calmly replied, staring at the three dead bodies.

“What is your name? Where are you from ‘boy’?” He inquired in a serious tone, keeping his sword pointed at the child.

“Who I am or where I’m from is irrelevant.” The boy replied. With the hood obscuring most of his face, it was impossible to determine what the boy was thinking. “I can see that you all are bounty hunting. Put that sword away, or none of you will be returning to collect on those bounties.” Yet, a low voice unlike that of a child’s squirmed through the air, whispering death into his ears.

His senses went up in alarm and he quickly took a step back, falling into a defensive stance. Although unsure if they also heard the voice, his men saw what he did and they too, readied themselves for an ambush.

After a span of time with nothing happening, the boy turned away from the fire and began walking into the darkness. “Stop!” He shouted, but the boy kept walking. “Pazilr, apprehend that boy!” He ordered one of his men.

The man obeyed and dashed toward the boy, bringing his arms out to grab onto the child. With a sudden motion, Pazilr was sent flying back at the group, grunting in pain as he hit the ground. All his men angled their swords and the boy slowly turned to face them.

“I implore you to not try that again. The next one will be joining those three.” The child warned, pointing to the dead bandits. “I appreciate what you’ve done and as a token of my gratitude, there is a boar over by that tree. Feel free to help yourselves to it.” The boy pointed towards something hanging from a tree before walking away again.

“Halt!” He shouted and the boy stopped to turn and look toward him again. “I am Captain Zikale Lorvak, leader of the Droxxon mercenaries. I gladly welcome death.” Announcing himself, Zikale charged to apprehend the small figure. He was confident in his abilities and those of his men. They would capture and question the boy.

Infusing mana into his legs, he stormed forward, ready to counter whatever the child may throw at him. As he loomed over the boy, his hands went for the hood that was hiding the boy’s face. Before he could grab the child, his body froze for a brief moment and in that inexplicable moment of helplessness, with a wave of the child’s hand, he was blown sideways into a tree.

Dumbstruck at what just happened, Zikale quickly pushed himself off the ground and yelled for his men to stop what they were about to do. “You… that was magic…” He spoke in astonishment. Even if the child’s magic had taken him by surprise, a mere child blew him away as if he was nothing. Armor and all. He himself knew a little magic, but what just happened was beyond his understanding. Not to mention, a mere child held such power.

“You could have easily taken care of those three… they did not move to protect themselves because you stopped them while we killed them…” He rationalized what happened out loud. “How is it possible that a child… Who are you?” He questioned again.

“I am just a traveler.” The boy replied before stalking off into the darkness once more.

This time, he stopped his men from attempting to follow the boy.

 

—

 

Away from the group and making sure that no one was tailing him, Kaidus took to the sky.

He had wanted to see who the group chasing the three bandits were before exterminating them all.

The second group was a group of seven:

Six of them dressed in leather armor, each wielding a slim short sword, perfect for quick attacks. Two women and four men.

The seventh man adorned a full plate of armor, covering his entire body from head to toe. He held a longsword, unlike that of the other six. His sword radiated a soft orange glow as if it had just been taken out of the forge. An intricate pattern of runes ran along the side of the blade, giving it an ornate design.

His impression was that they were bounty hunters, considering the dialogue between the two who he deemed the leaders.

In the brief fight against the bandits, as soon as the armored man moved in for an attack, he had immobilized the three who were threatening to kill him—resulting in a one-sided slaughter. The seven did not look like bad people, but he was uncertain about the circumstances that brought them to his location.

The man began questioning him, and a quick exit did not seem to be an option. Even after offering his boar, it did not appease the armored man’s curiosity.

‘Droxxon mercenaries. Captain Zikale.’ It clicked in his head instantly after the man had shouted out his name and position.

The man was Zikale the Red, one of the Ten Captains in Darsus’ mercenary guilds, and Troyle’s former captain from his mercenary days. He had heard many great stories about the man from his parents.

As the man charged him, he could not bring himself to take the life of his father’s old captain. He willed Zion to blow the man away as a show of his domination over the group. His plan succeeded and deterred any further actions.

He was thankful that in the darkness—and with his hood on—none of them had seen his face. Moving away from the fire, he was also glad none of them had followed him.

‘Next time will be with swords.’ He mused to himself, recalling how he had used magic against the unsuspecting man. He smiled.

He had wanted to clash head to head against the man in a test of skill, but tonight was neither the time nor place.

 

—

 

Three days later, he walked out of Ferrent’s proximity village where he had spent the first night of his journey. Having rested and refreshed himself during the day, it was time to return to Ferrent.

Kaidus walked into the woods away from the village as the sun descended over the horizon. In the dark of night, he soared south, following the road to Ferrent.

There was no pity in his eyes as he surveyed the damages.
At least 40 people were before him moments ago, but now a measly dozen stood in their place. He had allowed Zion to test these members of Tal’hrus, and he was woefully disappointed.

He did not know how many people were still in the fort, but that did not matter to him anymore. They would be dealt with accordingly.

Countless body parts were flying about in the storm that is Zion—circulating around their position. Here and there, blood drizzled upon him and those of Tal’hrus who were still alive.

“Is this the proclaimed might of Tal’hrus? Blown to bits by a little storm?” Kaidus glared at Zavon as he taunted the man. “Well?”

Zavon quietly stared back at him. Kaidus could see the glint of fear in the man’s eyes, yet he knew the man was already planning something. Kaidus stepped forward. “You already know who I am. This time, I am not hiding. Let us see if I am destined to fail as you claimed I would.” He spoke using Zavon’s own words against him. A sudden tinge of agitation appeared on the man’s face.

A silent mutter could be heard coming from Zavon.

“Masssterrr.” Zion’s breeze whispered in his ears.

“You need not concern yourself with this. Eliminate any stragglers still in the fort and anyone who attempts to flee.” He ordered the tempest. Without another word, the breeze happily flew off to join its main body.

As soon as he finished, a ball of ice formed a few paces in front of him and exploded. Kaidus took two quick steps back and with a thought, shielded himself with a mana barrier. As soon as the ice shards stopped, he could see that the survivors were fanning out and surrounding him. A bolt of lightning shot at him from his left. With a timely sidestep, he avoided the magic. As soon as he evaded, the ground beneath his feet engulfed him, holding him in place and pulling him down into the ground. Three more magic spells came roaring at him.

Kaidus relaxed himself and pushed his body into the earth along with the pull of the other mage’s magic. Easily breaking the earth binding spell, he shot into the earth as Headmaster Nylen would have, dodging the three attacks.

He willed his mana to burst outward, and the earth gave in to his command. The ground rippled and in quick successions, the ripples erupted into spikes, impaling anyone who was unprepared.

With earth magic, he elevated himself back up above ground.

Two of the agents who were in his proximity had been penetrated by the earth spikes while the others retreated back a considerable distance.

“Formation 13! Use long range spells and wear him down!” He heard Zavon’s voice shout an order.

An ice chain whipped toward him as two more bolts of frayed lightning homed in on his position. With a thought, another mana barrier deflected the two bolts. With his right hand, a fiery dagger manifested and he quickly severed the icy whip.

‘Third form, Hing.’ In a blur—faster than the eyes can see—he vanished from his position and appeared alongside a woman. He was now holding onto two daggers. The woman held onto her stomach as a large cross burst into flame where she was touching. Amidst cries of agony, her guts fell out as the woman fell forward toward the ground, engulfed by the flames.

Without waiting, Kaidus threw one of the daggers at another man.

Seeing the sudden death of his companion, the man finished his spell he had been invoking. A wall of flame shot along a path straight at Kaidus. As the dagger and the fire spell passed through each other, the flaming dagger absorbed the man’s spell, burning even brighter as it pierced the man’s chest. The dagger burst into flames upon impact.

‘Sixth form, Sonis.’ Without looking to see if the first dagger landed, he threw the remaining dagger as a barrage of magic surged toward his position. In a flash, he emerged as the dagger was about to insert itself into the subtle flesh of another member of Tal’hrus.

Catching the dagger in a backhanded grip with his right hand, he jabbed the dagger down into the man’s left leg. As flames burst forth from the attack, the man bent forward in an attempt to pull out the weapon and to grab him. Turning with the backhanded jab, Kaidus steeled himself and his left fist flew forth, squaring the man’s side in an uppercut. A solid strike filled with mana, he blew the man off his feet as the force exited the man’s back. In the man’s side was a large hole penetrating from his lower right side all the way to an exit on the left-side of his back.

With a grunt and the sound of countless bones exploding, the man fell down and died. Blood began oozing out of the wound.

Kaidus stood his ground and turned to glare at Zavon. Waiting.

 

—

 

Zavon looked at the bloody boy a short distance away from him with eyes filled with horror.

Only moments after the earth spikes that had taken two of his subordinates, another three were already dead. As if to insult them even further, the boy was now looking at him, waiting for his team to make the first move.

‘This can’t be. This is impossible!’ His mind shouted. All his senses were running amok, whispering for him to preserve his life. Even his risky nature was now telling him to get away from the thing that was in front of him.

Yet, where could he possible run off to? They were trapped within the bloody whirlwind. He did not know how to counter such a phenomenon and would require time to figure out how to deal with the storm, not to mention the lengthy incantation that may be required.

As if alive, the storm intensified and pulled the five dead bodies outward, sucking them into the hurricane. Zavon could do nothing but erect a defense around himself, trying to keep from being sucked in. He watched helplessly as another three of his subordinates failed to root themselves on the ground and were swept up by the pull.

Drizzles of newly spilt blood rained down upon them.

 “Are we done here?” The boy asked, standing in the same place where he had just taken Ladur’s life.

No one answered the boy.

Zavon looked toward his few remaining men, catching faces filled with fear and disbelief. Suddenly, the boy’s hair flashed and a bright light assaulted their eyes. His vision seared by the blinding light, all he could hear was the sound of bones and flesh being ripped apart.

Mauling his eyes—as if to gouge them out—he screamed out in pain. “What did you do?!” He angrily shouted at the boy as thick liquid and bits of what could only be flesh began bombarding him.

He received no answer, only the screams of agony from his men.

The hot searing pain eventually receded and his vision returned, revealing a crimson world filled with carnage.

He was covered in blood from head to toe. Besides himself, only four of his men remained. They too were covered in blood from head to toe. He noticed that the storm had vanished and the sun was shining down on the bloody scene before him. In the front yard of the devastated fort, all that remained was the boy, four of his men, and himself. All of them bloody from the shower that the storm had given them.

Seeing the destruction of his home and possibly everything he had worked for, Zavon lashed out in anger.

“Asiran! Devo Naagartian! Zu Vasur! Kalshin Mazons Galaos! Reanus VANU!” he shouted, and a portal tore open in front of him as water gushed forth.

“Drown him!” He pointed to the boy and his familiar obeyed as he began another incantation for advance water magic. The boy did not make any movements.

The water that poured out merged into a ball and the spirit bounded straight for the boy. Yet before it could engulf the child, something shot forth and cleaved his water familiar in half. Zavon quickly unleashed his spell and the ground opened up under the boy. A torrent of water blasted the child into the air.

His men saw his execution and followed suit with their own spells. Within the air, there was nowhere to run.

‘NO!’ His mind shouted. In his haste, he had forgotten the first thing he saw. Flying magic.

The boy flew ever higher, evading the four spells from his men. Suddenly, like a lightning bolt, the boy descended upon one of the four. “GUAH!!” a cry of pain, and one of the men was torn to pieces. Within seconds, the body pieces began freezing over. The boy was now holding a dagger of ice in his hands.

Zavon willed his water spirit to attack once more. Instead of moving this time, the boy threw the dagger into the familiar. His spirit’s body of water slowed instantly and began freezing up. Within seconds, it was a huge block of ice. Zavon quickly understood the overwhelming strength between them. “You… What are you?!” He shouted. His tone slightly off and revealing his fear.

“Youuuu Are Undesssservingggg Of Ssssuch Knowwwwledge!”

The voice struck fear into his very being as a bloody gust of wind struck him from behind, forcing him to kneel. Surprised by the sudden force, he looked around, but saw nothing corporeal. Staring back at the child, he could almost make out a figure in the bloody wind as it engulfed the child, slowly transforming into a blood red cloak once again.

‘Impossible…’ The distasteful word resurfaced again. “Ha… hahahha… this can’t be real… this is impossible.” Zavon could do nothing but laugh.

He was ‘Master Zavon’, one of the strongest Malgin within Tal’hrus. There were only 4 others he knew of who could claim to be his equal. All were masters of their own respective domains, as Darsus was his.

The only person he had ever considered as a threat to his life was the old master. It did not matter if they were a Malizur or another powerful Malgin, he was confident he could easily survive such people. The other 14 who had survived alongside him were also of Malgin rank, yet only 4 of them remained. It was fundamentally impossible for a single Malizur or Malgin to be giving them this much trouble. There was little doubt about it.

“Haha… to think that I would see the day! Kahah… haha!” Although not one for superstitions and the unknown, Zavon laughed again. He realize now, the error of his judgement.

Stories of incredible elementals that walked alongside mages of old, spirits filled with intelligence, garnering powers beyond the hopes of any mortals and able to speak the tongue of men. The world was too wide and full of surprises. He knew now that try as he might, he could never escape from what was to come.

He could do nothing but laugh at the unbelievable sight in front of him as his three remaining men saw what just happened and attempted to abandon their oaths to Tal’hrus.

“Haaaaahaaaaahaaaa!” The wind bellowed and gave an eerie laughter as the first of the escaping men was torn to pieces.

One of them attempted to summon a wind spirit.

Upon the spirit’s manifestation, instead of protecting his summoner, the wind spirit turned against his master and suffocated the man. The air sucked out of his lungs, the man wailed about fruitlessly before collapsing onto the ground. The spirit was then consumed by the tempest that manifested during the escape attempt.

The third man never made it anywhere before the wind shredded him to bits.

“Hahahaha!” Zavon laughed hysterically as tears rolled down his face. Everything that occurred within the explicit timeframe of realizing the boy’s identity just moments ago up to now had already become clear to him.

Zavon could do nothing, but await his demise as the boy walked toward him.

“Am I doomed to fail, Mr. Zavon?” The boy asked, standing in front of him.

He had no replies to counter that statement. His group of at least 60 was decimated in minutes. What could he say to reinforce his threats?

Staring at the boy’s glowing eyes, there was nothing in them. No emotion, no pity, no remorse, no hesitation, not even anger. The eyes bound him and within them, he saw his own death.

“I-I’ll do it.” He managed to eke out, forcing himself to not grovel before the boy and keeping what’s left of his pride.

“You’ll do what?”

“I-I’ll pull my men out of Ferrent! We’ll never set foot within its vicinity ever again! You have my words!” He yelled out.

“Not good enough.” The boy replied.

“What do you want?! Tell me! I’ll do anything!” The words escaped his mouth before he could even think about them.

He grimaced at what he had blurted out. His loyalty to Tal’hrus had been unquestionable since joining the organization, yet here he was, about to negotiate for his life. Within seconds of his regret, a calm washed over him.

The possibly that he was the only survivor here gave him peace of mind.

He knew Tal’hrus and how they operated. If he can get through this with his life, he could evade the organization. No one will ever know what happened here or that he had divulged information about the organization. He would just be another dead man, ripped to shreds and scattered about here like all the others.

“Who is your master? The leader of Tal’hrus?” Skipping any small talk, the boy went straight for the figurehead.

 

—

 

“We don’t know his real name. H-He is only known to us as ‘Master’.” Zavon quickly replied.

“What does he look like? Where does he operate from?” Kaidus queried.

“An old man, possibly in his eighties. None of us seven masters know about his daily lives.” Another quick reply.

“How do I reach him?”

“I-I don’t know. He contacts us by messengers.” Zavon answered.

Kaidus stepped forth and delivered a punch into the kneeling man’s chest, breaking a few bones. “You are lying.”

“GUH! *cough!* I don’t know!” Zavon replied. “AUGH!” He moaned, spitting out blood as another blow nailed him in the chest.

It was impossible. The boy knew he was lying.

In his mind, tens of scenarios played out but not a single one ended with his escape. He saw what happened to those who attempted to flee earlier. He remembered what happened when he first attempted to invoke a spell. The only reasons why he and the surviving members had been able to cast any spells at all, was because the boy had allowed them to. Zavon shivered in fear.

“G-give me your word that you would leave me with my life!” He shouted, trying to bargain.

“Your chances will depend on the information given and their honesty. Another lie, and you will join your friends.” Kaidus cautioned, glaring at the man.

“A m-mirror shard in a secret r-room within the fort…” Zavon relented.

“Where?”

“Hidden behind a magic wall…”

“What’s so special about the shard?”

“The shard is a fragment of a relic… *hah…* the master discovered its abilities in the early days of Tal’hrus. We masters have been using them to travel across the seven continents.” Zavon answered.

“Show me.”

 

…

Passing through a long hallway filled with rubbles, they arrived at a wall.

With an incantation, the wall vanished, revealing a hidden room.

“It’s inside there.” Zavon motioned.

Kaidus stepped inside.

A small dank and almost empty room. The shard hung on a wall within. Traces of ancient magic could be sensed circulating within it. He stepped forth to grab the shard.

“Asiran. Gelnos Pleiss Vaynaras Toralg Zucet! Delovus Tretos Valatos!” Zavon quickly invoked, and the room was sealed once again.

“You can rot in there!” He shouted happily as relief returned to him. The room was made to withstand magic attacks, preventing any of his subordinates from getting in without the spell. It should hold the boy for a while as he made his escape.

Zavon turned to run.

*Shaaa* the walls sealing the boy disintegrated into sands before he could even take three steps.

Turning around, “That’s…” He wanted to say the words ‘impossible’, but as if being used too much had removed it from his vocabulary, all he could do was stare blankly at the silver haired boy who was now walking out of the room. It could not classify as a room anymore, as the whole top half of the stone fort had been blown to sand bits. The sun was now shining down on them, and in the sunlight, the boy’s hair was shimmering with an otherworldly luster.

“Thank you again.” Kaidus spoke. In his small hand was the mirror shard. An enormous amount of magic could be felt emanating from it. It truly was a relic from a bygone era.

“N-” Zavon attempted to reply, but he could not move nor make a sound.

“I have no more need of you. With this, I will be able to locate the other pieces.” Kaidus gave the frozen man a sinister grin. “Allow me to give you my utmost gratitude.” He expressed, with a curt bow.

With a thought, Zavon’s fingers exploded and three rings flew up to him. “I’ll also be taking these.” Kaidus grabbed and pocketed three metallic rings that were almost identical to the one he had taken off of Raleun.

“!!- GRUAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAH!!!!!” Zavon shouted as the silence was lifted.

“Hahh… Ha….! If there’s no further need of me, then leave!” He shouted, fighting back the fear and the pain within him. Hoping against all hopes that the child would leave him be.

“True. I will leave you with your life.” Kaidus replied, walking toward Zavon.

“GYAAAAAAAAAAAAH!!!!” Zavon screamed out once more. Both his arms had been cleanly severed and fallen to the ground. His body immobilized; he could do nothing but scream in agony.

“How long you retain that pitiful life of yours, I do not know.” Kaidus walked past Zavon and the screaming stopped. Another silence spell had been implemented against the man. “I WILL Obliterate Tal’hrus, and you will die here knowing you brought about its ruin.”

Unlike that of a child, a man’s voice, imposing, filled with determination and hatred slither and coiled around Zavon’s throat, crushing it slowly. A sudden gust blew from behind him, and the presence of the boy vanished. On the verge of death, his name surfaced within his mind. Bleeding and unable to voice any spells, Zavon’s eyes teared as death overtook him.

 

—

 

The entity called Zion propelled its master gleefully through the air.

Its master’s parting words for the dead man echoed through its very being.

“I WILL Obliterate Tal’hrus, and you will die here knowing you brought about its ruin.”

It was not the message that was delivered, but the voice that delivered it.

After innumerable eons, its master’s true voice once again sounded through the winds. The unrelenting voice that had entrapped and bound Zion’s own indomitable will to this god of death.

Today was but a glimpse of the deaths and destructions that will undoubtedly follow.

Carried by the winds and untethered by the laws of the world, Kaidus soared through the night sky. He had been flying northeast ever since leaving Ferrent, following the mana signature from the metallic ring in his hand.

A few hours later, and he was approaching a proximity village.

These villages serve as a resting point for travelers and merchants moving to and from the Capital, and are a vital place to inquire about information for the road ahead, or to obtain any required resources before making the final journey to Ferrent.

He saw the telltale sign of lanterns and outdoor campfires all along the inner perimeter of the village walls, indicating travelers. It would have taken a day of intense riding or two days of caravan travel, but the village was within his sights in a matter of hours.

Fatigue kicking in and having given up some blood to disguise his cloak, Kaidus willed Zion to lower him onto the ground. In the darkness, he carefully made his way into the village without being noticed by the guards. Unsure of the next time he’ll be resting in a village or town, he headed toward a sizable building that looked to still be doing business at this time of night.

Also doubling as a tavern and diner, the Inn was full of strangers and many people were having a late-night snack as they drank and told stories. Rough looking men and women sat around, minding their own business. Not a single pair of eyes cared for the strangely cloaked young boy who had just entered the building.

“You there. Are there any rooms available?” He asked a woman who was behind the counter—working the bar.

“And who might you be?” She looked around for someone else.

“Why does that matter? I’m asking if you have a room available.” He retorted back.

The woman scrutinized him for a moment. “Aren’t you too young to be out alone at this time of night?” An expected question.

“My entourage and I just pulled in. Do you have a room or not?” He inquired again with a tone of irritation. Opening his cloak, he revealed his finer school clothes underneath as he fished a green fer from his money bag and placed it onto the counter.

“Yes of course my lord. For how many people?” The woman was not stupid. She picked up on the tone and display immediately.

With a fine red cloak, his attitude, how he held himself, and his brazen display of wealth, he gave off an impeccable impression of a young lord.

“Just me. My guards will be camping out tonight with the others.” He replied, not caring about his imaginary companions. “I trust I will be fine in your care?” He asked, giving an imposing stare.

“Y-Yes of course, my lord. Our establishment is one of the most respected in the village. You will never have any problem as long as you are within our walls.” She replied courteously.

It was a plan he concocted as he entered the village. He did not want to be conspicuous, but a normal child wandering around at this time of night was abnormal. Fortunately for him, he had on his finer clothes—as he was supposed to be returning to the academy. With the five green fers in his pocket—250erns—he could play this off as a rich child not wanting to camp with the rabbles and hopefully get a good night’s sleep to restore himself.

The role came to him easily. Being a past noble and now surrounded by pompous lordlings and ladies, there was not an ounce of love for the common folk in his tone.

Without waiting for him to change his mind, the woman scooped up the green fer off the counter and led him upstairs to a nice room. This was only his second time at an inn, but this room was a lot nicer than the one they had stayed in at the Crystal Wayfarer Inn back when they first arrived in Ferrent.

“Would you like something to eat before you retire for the night?” She inquired politely as he strolled into the room.

“I would. Bring me your finest.” A simple reply.

“Yes, my lord.” She gave him a curt bow before heading off to bring him his meal.

“Masssssterrrr.” The cloak hissed.

“I noticed. Wait and see if they do anything. If not, we’ll deal with them tomorrow.” He replied back to Zion.

After pulling out his money, many of the uncaring eyes around the room had turned toward him. Possible bandits masquerading as travelers, thieves scouting their prey, or kidnappers.

Sitting in silence for a while, his food finally arrived.

 

—

 

The night passed and he woke up around midmorning with nothing occurring during the night.

“Good morning, my lord. Did you sleep well?” A man spoke to him as he got downstairs. “Elle told me about you and your arrival late last night. How was your rest?”

“Fair. No complaints here.” He spoke indifferently, trying not to sound too out of character.

“Glad to hear it. Is there anything else we may help you with?”

“For starters, what’s for breakfast? I assume my payment was enough to cover breakfast?”

“Of course. Please sit yourself at a table and I’ll have one of the lads bring it out to you.” The man replied humbly before making a quick series of shouts into the kitchen.

Soon a breakfast of baked mulse bread with a modest bowl of soup and three slices of roasted dronnon meat was before him.

Finished with breakfast, Kaidus went about the small village, purchasing anything he may need for the road ahead: a water skin and a small knife. After some quick shopping and 17erns less in his money bag, he made his way out of the village and northward along the road.

Walking along the main road, he made sure he was a good distance away from the village before stopping. There were people stalking him and he had felt their presences ever since he was still in the village.

His pursuers had also stopped.

“Come out!” He yelled.

“Brave lil one aren’t ya? How’d you know?” A rough looking man popped out of the forest and asked. Four others also came out of hiding and walked onto the main road. He remembered glimpsing their faces last night.

“How I know is none of your concern. Is this all of you?” He replied to the man’s words.

“Hmn?” The man looked at him quizzically.

“There were at least eleven of you in the inn last night watching me. How come there are only five of you here?” He replied with a calm voice. He certainly wanted to be on his way, but this was an exception.

“Hahaha! You all hear that?” Another man laughed. “The boy doesn’t have any idea what’s about to happen to him!”

Kaidus turned to look the man in the eyes. “I know full well what’s happening. You mongrels are the ones who have been attacking and killing travelers.” He replied without a hint of fear in him.

Shopping was not the only thing he was doing earlier. With the uneasy feeling last night, he had asked about the road. It turns out, a group of unknown assailants have been targeting and murdering travelers who traveled in small numbers.

 “So that’s what you were doing. It sure was odd to see a lordling doing his own shopping.” The bandit grinned.

“Just hearing about us means nothing. Don’t worry, we won’t kill ya.” Another added.

The man who first spoke as they came out of the forest stepped forth. “You have no one guarding you nor do you have any idea of what is about to happen. Just give us everything you have, and you can be on your way. Otherwise, I don’t know what my friends may do to you.”

Without flinching, Kaidus stared back at the man who seem to be speaking for the group. “Is that the offer you give all your victims?”

“What’s wrong with you kid?! Do you want to die?! Give us your money or you’re dead!” Another man shouted angrily.

“How about I keep my money, and I grind you all into dust and sprinkle your ashes into the wind? Parasites like you all do not deserve to live.”

“Well, forget my offer. You’ve got a fine tongue in yer mouth and I’ll enjoy cutting it off. We weren’t planning on lettin’ ya go anyways.” The leading man smiled. “I wonder how much money a tongue-less highborn bastard like you’ll bring in.” He added, signaling for two of his friends to grab Kaidus.

“Zion. Leave none alive.” Kaidus spoke as the two men stalked forward to grab him.

“YESSS MASSSTERRR!” A voice hissed happily.

The red cape fluttered, and a razor wind blew forth, slicing both men who were approaching him into halves.

“He’s a mage from the Myst-!” One of the bandits managed before Zion severed his head.

“Y-you…!” The leader stared at him in confusion.

“…”

Kaidus watched solemnly as Zion tore the two remaining bandits apart.

Within moments, his command had been fulfilled. Five dead cut throats laid on the road.

A bloody tempest flew at Kaidus and was quickly absorbed by the cloak, giving it an even bloodier color.

With a thought, all the body parts burst into flame. As the intense flame died down, nothing but ashes remained of the five men. Kaidus shot forth into the sky, blowing their ashes into the wind.

 

…

 

Having recovered from the blood loss that he gave to Zion, he altered his flight pattern after the 2^nd night. The signature had stopped following any road or pathway, and took him over the forests, veering into unknown territories.

Away from populated areas, he hunted for his own food using what he had learned from Adalina. With magic, he easily caught small game, and scavenged for edible plants to supplement his meal—fire and water were not an issue for him. He rested where he could during the day, and soared through the skies at night, moving in the dark, hidden from prying eyes.

After five long days, he reached his destination.
A large fort hidden within the midst of a dense forest. He could almost feel the owner of the mana that was trapped in the metal ring.

In the darkness, Kaidus lowered himself to camp for the night.

 

—

 

Zavon got out of his bed at the break of dawn as he had done every day. The crescendo of birds chirping in the morning had only just begun.

Putting on a robe, he looked back to the bed at the sleeping women whom he had indulged himself in. She was not his wife nor was she his lover. They were nothing more than two adults seeking the warmth and pleasure of one another.

Prying his eyes away from her naked body, Zavon stepped out of the room to go wash himself.

“How many of Alek’s group returned last night?” He asked his adjutant during breakfast.

“Nine, Master. Seven of those in his team were lost in an ambush by a collaboration of the mercenary guilds. Alek reported to have taken down a good portion of the enemy as they made their escape.”

“Did they accomplish what they were sent to do?”

“Yes, master. Two of the 10 heads have been cut off. The guilds will be in disarray for a while as they appoint new leaders.”

“And what of Ladur’s group?”

“They arrived earlier. Doesn’t look like they took any casualties.”

“And their mission?”

“Successful.”

“…” Zavon ate silently as he thought about their current state and made future plans.

“Master. If you don’t mind me asking, how much longer must we fortify this fortress?” His adjutant inquired.

“Only until I am sure that Ferrent has yet to catch wind of us.” Zavon replied, bringing another spoonful of hot food to his mouth.

He had already called back three units of his agents. Along with the return of Alek and Ladurs’ groups, they numbered around seventy strong within the headquarters. His scouts around Ferrent had reported nothing about any movements that may signify the Mystiks guild’s knowledge of their operations.

Yet, his little army was not for the Mystiks guild. It was preparations against the unknown voice that had threatened him.

‘This is foolish…’ He thought to himself. It was unlike him to take such precautions against an unknown enemy. He neither knew who was behind the voice, nor when the attack was coming.

“Tell Ladur and his team to rest up. I’ll be sending them out again tomorrow.” He directed his assistant.

“Yes master.”

 

…

 

Within his study, Zavon was drawing out new plans. New ways that would help the organization prosper and redeem himself in the eyes of the old master. As he wrote down ideas, he started hearing movements along the corridors. Listening carefully, there were shouting and yelling.

*BANG BANG!* within moments, someone was banging on his door. “Master! An attack!” The voice shouted.

Zavon got up and rushed out of his study.

Following the throngs of agents moving towards the front of the fort, upon his arrival, all he could see was a field of blood.

The bodies of his underlings were strewn about in pieces, and amongst the blood and gore, a figure in a bloody cloak floated forward.

‘Flying magic…’ He thought to himself. Amazed at what he was seeing in front of him. Looking closer, two glowing eyes peered at him from inside the hood. “Who are you?!” He questioned, stepping forward carefully. None of his men made a move.

“I have been looking for you.” A familiar voice boomed through. The figure pulled back his hood, revealing the face of a child with dark black hair.

Zavon stopped in his track. The voice was of the man he spoke to before, but in front of him was a child. “Kaidus…” His mouth gave life to the name that echoed in his mind.

“Pleasure to finally make your acquaintance.” The boy replied. This time, in a childish voice.

‘Voice manipulation!’ Zavon’s mind screamed out in distress. His men had been caught while acting on their plans and the perpetrator who caught them was undoubtedly none other than their target. This young boy.

“Exactly who are you? How did you find me?” Zavon questioned the boy. Ferrent was at least 20 days of hard riding away from their hideout. The one time he spoke to the boy was at most 13 days ago. Even if he came right after their conversation, the timeframe did not add up, not to mention finding their hideout hidden within the forest.

A metal ring flew at Zavon and he caught it. Looking at it, the ring was one of his. One of the rings he given to his lieutenants to contact him. ‘Impossible.’ He thought to himself. ‘The connection was destroyed. There’s no way…’ he looked up at the child, only to see a grin on the boy’s face.

“Thank you.” The boy mocked.

“No… it can’t be… KILL HIM!” Zavon quickly ordered as a feeling of apprehension overtook him.

Within seconds, magic of all designs flew at the boy. Lightning cages, fire eruptions, ice fields, water jets, earth traps, spikes, metal blades. Projectiles of all orders of magic flew at the boy, colliding against his position, resulting in an explosion of magic that would have shredded any normal boy.

As the cloud of gas and smoke subsided, a large circular rock stood where all the magic had made their impact. The rock slowly cracked and dissolved, revealing the boy inside without a single scratch.

“Asiran. Ve….” Zavon began mumbling a silent incantation under his breath. Yet as soon as he began, the cloak the child had been wearing dispersed, and a horizontal line of red shot forth at him and those around him. A razor wind.

Zavon quickly modified his incantation and barely defended himself as short screams of pain burst out from those behind him. A fine line of thick red liquid was slashed across his mana barrier, slowly trickling down onto the ground.

Looking around, a few of his subordinates had been severed by the bloody gale while others barely managed to avoid or defend it with magic.

Zavon watched in horror as a tempest began in the midst of the corpses. Blood gushed forth into the air and was sucked into the storm. The tempest slowly tore up the lifeless bodies, throwing them up into the air as its rotation and power increased. As if alive, the storm shredded the bodies of those unable to withstand it, whirling them around and into the air.

Within moments, the hurricane had expanded and accumulated enough strength to cut his fort in half. Screams of agony could be heard as the razor winds took more victims within the fort.

By the time the storm stopped expanding, it was as if night had descended upon them. Red with blood and flesh, the hurricane blotted out the sun, trapping a handful of survivors within.

Zavon looked around and saw the decimation of the group under his care. He counted fourteen survivors. In front of him, the boy stood without batting his glowing eyes. The only thing that changed, was that the boy’s black hair was now shining with a silver glow.

Zavon finally understood a part of the riddle. ‘I am the black winds of carnage.’ The single phrase reverberated in his mind as he stared into the face of death.

“Please come in. He is home.”

Kaidus heard his mother inviting someone into the house. A man and a boy he recognized came in. The man was a 3^rd ward patrol, and the boy was a year older than Kaidus himself. They too lived in the Shorza district.

The man carried the boy inside.

“Good evening Mr. Trinis. Hi Tamner.” He greeted the two.

“Kaidus…” The boy replied with his head hung low, and looked to be in pain.

“Good evening…” The man greeted. His face, full of worry and distress. “I am very sorry to disturb you Kaidus.” Mr. Trinis added apologetically.

“Do not worry about such details. My mother has already told me of your plight. Please, come and sit down.” He motioned for the two to join him in the living room. He had heard everything from Adalina this mid-afternoon after returning home.

This was already the fifth time ever since he treated the man from Tal’hrus. People who had no other options were resorting to what they’ve heard and were coming to him for healing.

The second time was a young woman who had witnessed the trial and had seen what he did to Naran’s scars. A large portion of her body was covered in burn scars from when she was a child, and begged for help to restore her body to a more visually appealing appearance, in the hopes of finding herself a husband.

The third was a toddler who had fallen from a carriage and broken her arm along with a shattered shoulder. The girl was barely alive when they brought her to him. He could still remember the young parent’s horrific cries, begging him nonstop.

The fourth was a mother of three who fell unconscious while out shopping and hit her head against the paved roads, resulting in a coma. He had gone to their house to help treat the woman.

Many people saw his abilities as a convenience, and numerous people came to him asking for healing. He refused most of them seeing that their injuries would not impact their daily lives, or that it will eventually heal over time without any problems. Many people became unhappy at his decisions, but they’ve lived their lives up to this point without someone constantly healing their every injury. He himself was not so benevolent that he would treat every single person who came to him, begging him to heal their scratches.

In Tamner’s case, it was an unfortunate accident.

Some of the boys were playing in the roads of the Shorza district, and a runaway carriage had hit two of them—the horse pulling the carriage had somehow gotten loose from its harness as the carriage was traveling through. The other boy got away with only scratches, but Tamner got his legs crushed against a wall.

Choosing to not use the compensation money they received for an operation, the Trinis family had explained their situation to Adalina, and waited for him to return home. The accident happened three days ago, and even with professional treatment, the possibility that the boy would not walk again was extremely high.

They were hoping that he could help them and was willing to relinquish the compensation money in exchange for their son’s health and livelihood.

Kaidus placed a hand on the boy’s leg and willed his mana to begin doing its work. Moments later, the older boy was up and walking about happily.

The man came forward and handed him a small purse. “Please take this. It’s not much, but it is all we have.” The man offered without an ounce of hesitation.

“No, Mr. Trinis. Please keep it. I did not help your son because of the promise of a reward.” Kaidus replied, unwilling to touch the small bag of money.

“This is the money we were given as reparation for the accident. There is 1100 erns altogether, meant to be used for Tamner’s treatment. It would be foolish of me to hold onto these ill-gotten gains after you have treated him.” The man replied tearfully.

“You all have suffered enough. Please use that money for your family.” Kaidus answered, unwilling to accept the offer.

“Thank you, young man… my family will forever remember your generosity.” The man bowed low in gratitude. Seeing this, Tamner came over to offer his thanks, imitating his father.

“Sorry again honey…” Adalina apologized after the guests had left.

“I’ve told you already. You have nothing to be sorry for.” He replied, refuting his mother’s apology. “If I can use this ability to save a few lives, then it is worth it. You did not raise me to be a selfish man.” He gave his mother a wide smile, trying to ease her guilt.

“Look at you, calling yourself a man.” Adalina giggled, picking him up into an embrace.

“…” His tongue had slipped with his choice of words, and he gave her an embarrassed hug back.

Her nature was one of kindness, unwilling to look the other way in the face of misfortune. His mother who saw the world for its magnificence and beauty, choosing to help those in need rather than forsake them, and he loved her for it.
She knew that healing magic took a toll on him and exhausts him, yet she could not turn a blind eye to those who were in need of his abilities. That is why she apologizes.

Setting him back down, “I’ll start on dinner. Can you go check on Anise for me?” She asked, giving him a warm and heartfelt smile.

“Sure.” He replied, making his way toward the stairs.

Kaidus quietly opened the door to his sister’s room, making sure not to wake her up. She had fallen asleep shortly after greeting his return, and was still napping peacefully in her bed.

“Master…” Hasen’s raspy voice echoed in his head as he approached.

“Anything happened while I was away?” He questioned the entity.

“…No…”

“Good. Keep watching over them.” He replied, glad that Hasen is being vigilant.

“Yes… master…”

“I called for your brothers.” He spoke up.

He attempted to resummon his remaining familiars four nights ago, but have yet to receive any answers. The connections with them were almost nonexistent, and it took all of his mana to reach out to them through Lagus—wherever they were. He could not feel them within Lagus, meaning they were still out in the world somewhere. Even without answering his call, he knew that they were still alive.

“At last… how… may I serve…?” Hasen excitedly inquired.

“I am planning on leaving Ferrent for a duration of time. I do not know how long the journey will take, but you will stay here and protect my family in my absence. Eliminate any threat that would harm them.” Kaidus commanded.

“By your will… Master…”

 

—

 

“Kai! Wake up!” Anise was pounding his chest. It was the morning after his return home.

“You’re getting stronger. That really hurts.” He grinned at his little sister, rubbing where she was hitting him. In the darkness of the room, he saw her shooting a devious grin back at him.

This was his usual morning routine now. Taking their mother’s words of not letting him become lazy literally, Anise had taken it upon herself to wake up at or before the break of dawn to gloriously keep him from oversleeping. Instead of waking up early to do his morning meditations and exercises, he had moved it to after Anise had fallen asleep for the night.

“Are mother and father awake yet?” He questioned the energetic girl, seeing that the room was still quite dark.

“Nope!” She replied triumphantly.

“Can I sleep a little longer?” He asked.

“NO! Mommy shays Anish keep you from be lazy!” She quickly refused, shaking her head.

“Then does Anise want to take a nap with me?” He moved over and brought up his blanket to make room for her.

She looked to make sure he wasn’t lying. “UHN!” Anise grinned happily. She immediately crawled into his bed, hugging him tightly.

Soon, both siblings were back in dreamland.

…

 

“MASTER!” Hasen’s raspy voice jerked him awake.

*CRASH!* his window exploded.

A cloud of smoke erupted between them and the window, blocking the shards of glass flying in the air. The crash had also woken up his sister.

In front of him was a floating dirty brown rag with an excess amount of tears and holes. It billowed ceaselessly as if a strong wind was blowing in the room. “The Elusssssssive Winnndddnnd, Foreverrrrrrrr At Yourrrrrr Serrrrrrvicccccce. Masterrrrrrr.” It hissed.

“Brother…” The ring around his sister’s neck spoke in his mind.

He grinned at the intruder. “Zion.” A single name came out of his mouth.

The rag swooped around the room at his word, and Anise’s face lit up at the display as she continued to hold him tightly.

 

—

 

As usual, his wife was already up and preparing breakfast. Troyle got off the bed and headed downstairs to freshen up.

*CRASH!* halfway down the stairs, he heard a loud noise coming from his son’s bedroom. Scrambling, he charged toward the boy’s room.

“Kaidus?!” He barged inside, yelling for his son.

“Good morning father.” He was greeted with a blank stare from his son. His daughter on the other hand, was giddy with excitement.

“What happened in here?!” He asked, eyes widening at the shards of glass on the floor before noticing the ugly rag flying around his children. “And what is that thing? Are you doing that?” He questioned.

Moving objects with magic was simple to his son. He had witnessed it many times before, but this was the first time something had broken. It was unlike his son to do such a thing.

“Daddy! It talk!” His little girl’s face was beaming with excitement as she spoke.

Suddenly the rag stopped flying about and fell onto the ground, becoming motionless.

“Sorry. I kind of got carried away.” His son apologized. “I’ll fix it right away.”

With those very words, the pieces of glasses on the floor rose up and shot toward the window. The shards melded together, reforming into a perfect pane of glass. Within seconds, the broken window was fully restored.

“Be more careful next time. You both could’ve gotten hurt.” He scolded.

“I will. Sorry to worry you.” His son replied apologetically. Taking another look at his daughter, Anise had gotten off the bed and was looking at the rag on the ground, curiously poking at it with her finger.

“Anise, don’t touch that.” He scolded her.

“Hm?” She looked back at him and poked the rag once more before stopping.

“Breakfast should be ready soon. Come down and wash yourselves before your mother starts going on about how cold breakfast has gotten.” He gave the two a loving smile as he left them.

“We’ll be right down.”

“KAY DADDY!”

A thought occurred to him as he made his way downstairs. The shattered glass was on the inside of the room, meaning a force had entered from the outside. ‘Daddy! It talk!’ he puzzled over what his daughter had said as she watched the rag dancing about.

He quickly removed any further thoughts from his mind. His son was enough of a mystery. There was no need to cram more questions into his head.

Thinking back: Kaidus was always an oddball, but ever since Anise was born, the boy had changed quite a lot. He was more emotional now than when he was still Anise’s age. Hints of embarrassment, joy, anger, disbelief, curiosity, etc.…

Normally sporting an impassive face along with a calm attitude, his son usually came off as a cold and indifferent child, but after all these years, he could read the boy almost as well as the boy read books. A pause in his words, a pitch in his voice, a strange nuance depicting unease, a hesitant answer, a twitch of the eyebrows.

His son was obviously hiding something, but it did not matter to him. The boy will surely tell him whenever he was ready. Until then, all he can do is be a parent to the child as he had for the past seven years.

Heading toward the washroom, another smile crept onto his face as he thought about how inseparable his kids were.

 

—

 

With their father gone, “Go and wash up before breakfast.” He instructed Anise.

“Anish wanna shtay!” And she refused, eyeing the rag on the ground.

“I thought you were a good girl? Good girls listen to their brother’s don’t they?” Kaidus coaxed.

“Muu…” Anise puffed her cheeks, ready to pout.

“I’ll show you later.” He smiled back at her.

“Promishe?” She stared at him inquisitively.

“I promise. Now go.” He grinned.

“Okay!” Anise happily bounded towards the door and downstairs.

‘Master…’ Hasen’s voice echoed in his mind.

‘Stay with her.’ He directed back to the ring.

…

“Zion.” He spoke after closing the door.

“Massssterrrrr.” It hissed, shooting back up and encircling him. “You Look… Difffffferent.” It added with an impertinent tone.

“Will that be a problem?” Kaidus questioned. His hair was now a light silver and he emitted a torrent of mana outward, suppressing the elemental’s movements.

“No Masssssterrrr. Zionnnn, The Everssssstorm At Your Sssssservicccce.” In a display of obedience, the rag stopped moving and lowered itself to his level.

“Surely you heard my summons. Where have you been?” Kaidus questioned.

“Riding The Winnnnd, Resssssstoring Myssssself.” It hissed without delay.

Zion was always like that. A free spirited elemental whose enjoyment of its freedom was only second to its loyalty. “Where is Vishan and Feziel?” He inquired, giving no further thought into his previous question.

“Thissss One Isssss Unccccccertain.” It replied.

“Where have you been? How long has it been since Veratoraliz?” He asked, hoping to get some answers.

“Thisssss One Hasssss Been Sssssslumbering. It doessssss not knowwwww.”

“…” Another unknown. “Conceal yourself for the time being. We will talk later.” He commanded, about to head downstairs.

“Masssster. I Senssssse My Brotherrrrrr… I Too Sssshall Followwwww…”

The rag distorted and shook itself in the air before crumpling itself into a ball. A violent gust of wind gushed forth from within the ball, and in a flash of light, the cloth unfurled outward, revealing a small clear ring floating there. The rag caught fire, and was incinerated instantly, leaving nothing behind. 

“You will not make a sound.” He told the ring as he grabbed it out of midair and placed it in his pocket.

 

…

 

Breakfast was roasted venison with steamed Laraze cut into small bites to be dipped in thick visouris sauce. A bowl of mashed mulse sat in the middle—sprinkled with salt and pepper to give it flavor—while a pot of meaty stew sat next to it. There was also his favorite roasted derilt root with plenty of Dronnon butter to the side. To wash them all down, two jugs of fruit juice sat on opposite sides of the table.

Kaidus took his place at the table for breakfast.
“Is this the last of the Oshun meat from last night?” He asked, taking a slice of the roasted venison.

“It is. Go ahead and eat up.” Adalina answered with a smile.

The meat had been the topic of conversation last night at dinner.

For the past four days, a pair of Oshuns had been raiding one of Lord Varath’s newly planted lisal field, aggressively attacking those who tried to fend them off. From what Troyle said, one of them had skewered a Kaltier with its majestic horns and injured a few of the guards—who were trying to trap the beasts and defend the field—before backup was called in. Backup, being a team of seven of Lord Varath’s trained guards, a hired mage, and Troyle.

Cooperating with those who were already on guard outside of Ferrent, they were able to subdue the two large deer while only incurring minor injuries during yesterday’s clash. The two Oshun were divided amongst those who had helped in their subjugation, and being one of the two who played a key role, Troyle had been given a modest portion of the deer.

“I don’t think we’ll be able to finish all this.” Kaidus joked back to his mother, motioning to all the food on the table.

“That’ll only mean we won’t have to go out shopping for lunch and dinner later. We can spend the whole day inside.” Adalina replied with a grin.

“NO! Anish want go outshide!” Anise exclaimed, raising her face up from her bowl.

“I want ‘to’ go outside.” Adalina corrected her daughter’s words with a smile.

“Anish wantsh to go outshide!” She repeated. This time, grinning back at their mother.

“Hahahaha!” Troyle started laughing.

His parents have been trying to teach his sister how to speak properly, but for some unknown reason, she always refers to herself in the third person. No matter how often they’ve corrected her, it always comes back as “Anise this” or “Anise that”, making for entertaining conversations against the girl.

“Hehehe. I wonder when you’ll stop referring to yourself like that.” Adalina giggled, patted the girl’s head.

Already forgotten about why she was shouting due to the outburst of laughter from her parents, Anise’s face became rife with happiness at her mother’s display of affection.

 

…

 

Breakfast ended, and Troyle was already gone.
Chores around the house were already dealt with, and Adalina was reading to Anise as they spent a lazy morning together in the living room.

Kaidus held a book in front of him, but his eyes stared blankly at the pages. His mind was racing.

After a long while of inactivity, he finally stood up and went over to his mother and sister to join them.

Sticking to his commands, Zion never made a sound.

 

—

 

Two days later, and evening outside of the Paltos house. Kaidus was giving an early goodbye to his family.

Troyle already returned from work, and they had just finished dinner together. There was still a whole day of the ryes left, but it was time to begin his plans.

“I’ll be gone for a little longer this time. Remember what I told you?” He asked Anise, kneeling down to eye level with her.

“Uhn!” She nodded with eyes full of determination.

“Tell me.”

“Alwaysh shtay with mommy, and alwaysh wear thish!” She replied, pulling out the necklace with the black ring to show him.

“Good girl.” He patted her head then gave her a hug. Those were the very words he told her when he first gave her the necklace.

Last evening during dinner, he had told his parents that: due to being a second year student and many things starting to happen for him at the academy, he would not be able to come back home for a while.

Both Troyle and Adalina took his words understandingly.

Surprising enough, Anise did too. Instead of crying, she told him that she was a big girl and she wouldn’t cry as long as he keeps his promises, yet he could see her cute little face fighting back the tears, trying to be strong. To make up for it, he had given her a grand display of magic and stayed with her the whole day today.

“I’ll come back whenever I can.” He told Adalina and Troyle once again. Giving them each a goodbye hug before stepping into the carriage.

He did not want to lie to his parents, but what he was about to undertake was something he did not wish for them to know. It was way better for them to remain ignorant of it for their own safety—for the time being.

The academy on the other hand, was a different story. All he did was leave a note with Zeeke that said he would be taking a leave of absence for a while. The note was to be delivered to any of the masters should they start asking for him. Many of the masters knew how capable he was, and he was hoping that they would not worry about his sudden disappearance. The nature spirit looked intelligent enough and seemed to be able to understand him, so he was only mildly worried about it losing his note. He did not tell anyone else in case they start asking him questions about what he is doing.

 

…

 

Passing through the Shorza district, his carriage took a different turn in the road. It did not move towards the 11^th ward gate, but made a drastic turn elsewhere. After a while, the carriage came to a stop in front of an Inn. It had taken him around the Shorza district, through the Hennelain district, and back towards Ferrent’s outer walls.

Getting out of the carriage, he thanked the driver and waited until the carriage disappeared. Not going into the Inn, Kaidus faded into the shadows of the incoming night, and moved into the alleys and far away from where he might be discovered. He waited until darkness had truly set in, then pulled out the two rings in his pocket.

One made of metal, and too big for his small fingers.

The other, a small clear ring that fit him perfectly.

Looking at Zion’s form, he shook his head, dispelling the thoughts of what may have happened to the other two familiars. He had waited long enough, and there was no use in wondering about it any longer. The three of them being here would make this drastically easier for him, but he had already resolved himself to move forward even without any of them.

‘Zion should be more than enough. I will try to reach the other two again after this is over.’ He thought to himself.

“It is time.” He spoke in the darkness of the alley.

“The Tempesssst Obeysssss.”  The clear ring shattered as the voice hissed out. A gust of wind burst forth and encircled him.

Kaidus brought forth his hand and a large cut appeared on his palm. With a thought, his blood flowed out and the tempest greedily sucked it up. The gale calmed down and merged together, forming a cloak around him—dyed red with his own blood—and concealing him in the darkness.

Illuminated by the moonlight, a blotch of dark red shot out of Ferrent and vanished into the night sky.

Kaidus clutched the metallic ring in his hand, smiling at how easy his work had just become.

Using a sealing spell, he had trapped Zavon’s mana within the ring. At the same time, he had overwritten the synchronization spell within the item, severing the connection between the two permanently. There will no longer be any contact between the two rings, but the trapped mana inside could be used as a means to track down the man. Kaidus laughed at how convenient Zavon had made this little game of hide and seek. It was the reason he would be able to make good on his threats.

He had wanted to live this peaceful life a little longer. To spend time with his family as he leisurely looked for answers, waiting for his body to grow to accommodate his immeasurable power.

But alas, for one who is forever embroiled in death, it seems fate had other plans for him.

He did not want to do proceed with what he was about to do, but the path forward was bound to be treacherous and filled with enemies. His childish body would be unable to sustain itself with long drawn out battles.

Kaidus brought forth his hand, picturing the black ring that had been with him for the past year. The one he had taken off and left with his sister.

 

—

 

A hooded man along with three of his guards walked through a dark hallway. The four of them walked in silence, approaching a wall at the end of the hallway.

The hooded man placed his hand on the wall. “Asiran. Gelnos Pleiss Vaynaras Toralg Zucet! Delovus Tretos Valartus!” With a quick spell, the wall vanished and the man stepped inside. His three guards stood guard outside of the room as the wall rematerialized.

The man took a couple steps forward to stand in front of a large mirror shard. A fragment of a relic from a forgotten age. With a secret incantation, the mirror started glowing and the man was sucked inside.  

He opened his eyes to a world of fog. One he had been to countless times, and a place devoid of life.

Dead trees with branches jutting out here and there littered the area. Through the fog, they created silhouettes eerily resembling those of the damned, clawing for life. After endlessly walking through the fog following the single trail, he arrived at a cave.

Without fear, the man entered the cave and strode forward into the darkness.

As he walked, he began muttering an incantation. Within seconds, a wall of mana washed over him, and he was standing in a dark tunnel with flickering lights coming from the other end. Walking forward, he entered a large open underground room. There were four other hooded figures standing side by side.

He silently joined them.

The five of them stood in silence as two more hooded figures joined them. After a while, an old man came through a door in the wall opposite their position. Their master had arrived.

“Well? What news do you all bring me?” The old man’s tone was demanding as he approached them.

His master, and one of the most powerful mages he has ever laid eyes upon. The old man was well beyond his prime, but within that old aged body lies some of the most destructive potentials ever known to the world.

Without waiting, the hooded man stepped forward. “I bring bad news, master.”

“… Speak.”

A single word brought chills down his spine. “I have lost contact with one of my lieutenants, and also half of my agents in Ferrent.”

“… You disappoint me, Zavon.” The old man spoke solemnly.

“Forgive me master. I will accept any and all punishments.” Zavon replied, his head bowed low and unwilling to meet his master’s eyes.

“Of course you will. I’ve warned you before. Do you know what would happened if Nylen and the Mystiks guild got their hands on your agents? Our operations in Darsus would be delayed by years.” The old man spoke calmly, but his voice was filled with a tension that wanted to kill. “What exactly happened?”

“Apologies master, but we do not know. Half of our agents simply vanished from what the messengers told me. As of now, the remaining agents in Ferrent have gone into hiding.” Zavon attempted a calm reply.

He was not about to disclose to the master that his men may have possibly been captured by someone of authority. The folly was his own, and occurred within his domain. He would be the one to take care of it. Not to mention, such failure could possibly cost him his life right here and now.

Before coming here, he had already sent another unit into Ferrent with the goal of finding their missing agents, and if possible, to eliminate the man behind the disappearance.

“…”The master was silent.

“I shall send anoth- GUAH!” An invisible hand grasped his throat tightly, cutting his sentence short.

“You will do no such thing!” The old man roared. “You will send someone to retrieve all of your agents still within the walls of Ferrent, and we will reassess our plans concerning Darsus! DO YOU UNDERSTAND?!” The old man exclaimed. There was no calm in his voice this time. Only anger.

The invisible hand released his neck and Zavon could breathe again. “Y-Yes master. *cough cough* as you will… *cough* …but what about the child?” He inquired, trying to change the topic.

“If your agents have not already killed him, then it is now too late! We must reinforce our ranks and be ready for the worst case possible. If your men have been captured by either Nylen or the guild, we will surely have a hunt on our hands.” The old man glared at him. “And Zavon. Prepared to take your own life. If I get word that our operations are compromised, I will not be granting your failure a swift death.” The old man spoke coldly.

All Zavon could do was bow and retreat back to standing beside the other seven. It took all he had to not shiver at the old man’s words. Many people have fallen under the master’s ire, and none has ever been seen again. He was sure they had all perished painfully, and the master did not discriminate whether they were friend or foe.

Zavon did not want to be another casualty without proving his worth. He stood silently and listened as the other six gave their accounts. A few reported failure, but none on the level of his own. Half listening to the reports, Zavon was making plans on how to tackle his problems in Darsus. He was one of the youngest to rise to the position of master within Tal’hrus.

His ambitions cannot possibly end here with this single mistake.

 

—

 

An old man woke up from his reverie, sitting up straight in his bed.

It was the middle of the night, and his acute senses had jerked him awake to an invisible force that dominated his academy. Someone was exerting an extremely high amount of mana while at the same time, trying to conceal whatever they were doing. It was unlike any he had ever felt before.

Nylen shuddered in his bed.
Whoever was doing this was extremely skilled, and the concealing of whatever magic they were performing was almost perfect. It was only due to his instinct and acute senses—carefully nurtured and cultivated over the decades—that he was able to even feel the traces of magic flowing through the air.

Calming his mind, after carefully assessing the situation, he recognized who the imposing amount of mana belonged to at once. His nervous shaking stopped, and a grin spread across his face. He was not wrong in what he had called the child. The boy was truly an outlier.

Nylen got out of bed and went to sit by the window, watching the moonlight dance as if welcoming the change in the air.

 

—

 

“Report.” Zavon commanded through a ring. He was currently back in his quarters on Darsus. The meeting with his master was four days ago, and he was growing anxious to remedy his failures.

“We have just passed through the town of Arsalt. It’ll be another 12 days before we reach Ferrent.” The one in charge of this new operation replied.

Zavon could hear the sound of hooves thundering through the ring.

“Contact me immediately if anything comes up. Even if you are on the brink of death!” He commanded.

“Yes master.”

The new unit that he dispatched five days ago were currently on horseback, traveling toward Ferrent. The unit consisted of 11 of his most powerful, and most trusted agents. They will undoubtedly be able to deal with this new problem.

He knew he was going against the master’s command, but he was sure that if he succeeded in fixing his problems and recruiting the boy, he would once again reclaim his glory.

He did not rise to his position by playing it safe.
As a new recruit in Tal’hrus, He had always taken risks, doing what others would not dare to do. He was brash and ambitious, but that was what got him to where he is today. He has never seen these demons of flesh that the old master was so cautious about, and until he witnessed their strength with his very eyes, there was no use in fearing the unknown.

Even if he were to die, there was no way the organization would fall because of him. That was the beauty of Tal’hrus.

Spread out across the seven continents, they worked in secrecy. No agent or master knew everything about their organization’s operations. The only exception was the old master himself. Even the name Zavon was not his real name, and that goes for all of the other seven masters. The names were granted to them once they took the mantle of Master, and none of them knew the real identity or face of their colleagues underneath those hoods. The masters all worked in their own domains without communing with each other, only coming together for emergency discussions, or to give their reports to the old master.

Even if invaders were to find their headquarters, the defense with the magic shard and magic seals within the dreaded white world could not be easily broken.

Taking off a ring from his finger, he recited an incantation. After a while,

“Yes, master?” A female voice came through.

“Shale, gather your group and return to headquarters at once. I have a strange feeling we may be in for a surprise.” He commanded another of his lieutenant.

“Yes master.” The voice complied, and Zavon killed the connection.

Even with his mind at ease, and confidence in his subordinates, there was something nagging him… a hint of agitation.

He did not fear what the old master feared: Nylen and the Mystiks guild within Ferrent could never touch him, and he was sure of it. It was why he had sent agents to infiltrate Ferrent in the first place.

All that stood in his way, was possibly the man who had spoken to him through the ring.

Someone who had been able to subdue nine of his agents. From the sound of it, it did not sound like the man was with anyone else during their conversation. He did not know if the man was working alone, or if their operations in Ferrent had already been noticed by the authorities. He tried picturing the assailant’s face, but all that he could see was a man of status, possibly one of the nobles. The voice sounded like it belonged to a man quite close to his own age.

He couldn’t rule out the Mystiks guild, but it was nearing a turn, and there has been no movements from what his agents outside of Ferrent have reported.

“I am the echoes of those who had been slain by the metal of injustice. I am the shadows of men long silenced and hidden from the light. I am he who rides the black winds of carnage. I am death.” Zavon repeated the lines before the threat on his life.

He had no idea what to make of it. A man proclaiming to be death… it was laughable. Yet, the words struck him into a cold chill when he first heard it. Then there was also the threat that he would eventually meet this man face to face. He could not just plainly dismiss such intimidations. The man even knew about the deeds of their organization from what he can tell of the riddle.

Zavon got up and barged out of his room. It was time to assess their combat strength and prepare for the worst-case scenarios as his master had warned. At least in this command, he would follow it without criticism.

 

—

 

Deep within the earth, buried under countless layers of soil and sediment beneath a great lake, something stirred.

Its master was calling, but it had been too weak to respond. Having slumbered peacefully for eons, its vast strength had already left it.

Awaking for the first time ever since witnessing its master’s demise, the entity slowly tore open a gate to Lagus within itself. The raw mana of Lagus surged into its very being and the entity hungrily devoured the life-giving force, restoring its strength.

After days of having its fill, it was time to return to its rightful place.

A storm brewed within the bowels of the earth and a razor wind tore through the solid rocks that had formed over numerous ages. The wind quickly pierced the earth and exploded through the depths of the lake, surging forth toward the surface. The wind accumulated strength as it stormed upward, breaking the surface of the lake in a grand display worthy of one who governed a force of the world.

A side of the lake gushed forth into the sky as witnesses looked in shock and scrambled for cover. A tempest had emerged in the lake. Walls of water erupted and rained down on the ground, pummeling those in its vicinity. Those who had been in the lake—fishing—were thrown into the air horrifically, before gently landing on the ground or in the water in what could only be considered an unexplainable phenomenon.

Too busy fleeing or recovering from what was happening, those on the ground failed to notice a piece of brown rag emerging from the lake, taking off at unimaginable speed towards the eastern sky.

“Mr. Paltos, please head to the headmaster’s room. Headmaster Nylen wishes to speak with you.” The Advance Arkane studies master yelled out as class was dismissed.

“For?”

“I’m not sure.” The master gave him a sly smirk.

“Understood.” Kaidus acknowledged before heading out of the room.

It has already been two ryes since that night in the Hannelain district.

He had gone back to the building twice after that night, hoping to find other accomplices, but there was never any sign of people.

He had only eliminated the presences that were always tailing him, but the three who monitored his coming and going out of the academy were also nowhere to be found.

Slipping out of the academy the first night to investigate, the three had already vanished. Keeping to their reputation as professionals, all traces of them ever being there had been erased.

It was impossible for them to know of what happened that night, but the disappearances of their comrades had undoubtedly alerted them. Surely by now, all nine already knows, and they were all in hiding. Not wanting to waste his time combing through all the wards for the nine remaining Tal’hrus members, he had decided to not deviate from his daily routines.

He had already taken measures to ensure his family’s safety. All that is left now, was to wait for their next move.

 

—

 

An old man sat quietly in his study, staring at the document in front of him. He read it once already, but was rereading it a second time.

“Heheh…” Headmaster Nylen’s mouth contorted into a smile as his clay arm came up to stroke his scruffy beard.

It has been a whole turn, but the letter he had been waiting for was finally here. An official issue from the Mystiks guild regarding a certain young mage. Along with the document was an officially sealed and unopened letter for said mage.

*KNOCK KNOCK* “Kaidus is here, Headmaster.” A voice called from the other side of his door.

“Please show the boy in.” He replied enthusiastically.

Moments later, the young boy who had stolen his arm walked into the room.

“Good afternoon Kaidus.” Nylen greeted with a grin.

“You asked for me?”

This was only the third time he had come here to talk to the headmaster. The first was after their little skirmish, and the second for official council business. But after how they met—and gauging the dispositions of the old man—Kaidus could do nothing but view the old man in a cynical light. Even seeing the old man’s fake arm brought him no guilt to what he had done.

“Yes, yes. Come over here and sit, won’t you?” Nylen motioned to a seat across from his desk. “Do you have any idea why I’ve called you?”

“I haven’t the slightest clue.” He replied apathetically.

“What do you know about the Mystiks guild?” Headmaster Nylen inquired.

“Only what I’ve read.”

“And what have you read?”

“The Mystiks guild is the Organization in charge of development, distribution, maintenance, and overseeing of anything pertaining to magic within Ferrent. Currently there are three branches of the guild in the three noble wards, each charged with their three corresponding wards from 1 through 9. The guild consists of only mages, and is Ferrent’s mage army in times of war. I am also aware that you yourself were a former guild member.” Kaidus summarized the Mystiks guild eloquently, emphasizing the small tidbits at the end.

“Yes, that is about the general idea of them. But one more thing: the Mystiks guild does not work primarily in Ferrent. Many members are sent off with the knights to help with exterminations or bounties all over Darsus. They also work in various fields unrelated to the betterment of society.” The headmaster added with a wink.

“I know you did not call me here for a friendly chat. What is the true purpose and what does it have to do with the Mystiks guild?” He asked, unsure what the master was getting at. There was no way his actions from two ryes ago had been noticed.

 “Yes, of course. I called you in for this. An invitation from the Mystiks guild.” The headmaster slid a folded and sealed letter over to Kaidus. It was a pure white paper, one very unlike those he usually saw and used.

Unsealing the letter,

‘Hello Mr. Kaidus Paltos,
After much deliberation and witness testaments from prominent members of the guild. I, Thaxxus Baelius V. Terinthier, Head of the 11^th ward Mystiks Guild formally invite you to our establishments in the 11^th ward.

We of the Mystiks guild wish to discuss with you, and offer you a position in our venerable institute, conferring to you all the benefits along with your new station should you accept. Of course, there is the caveat of proving yourself to those of us in the Guild Council as all before you have, but I have been assured that it would be of no difficulty for one such as yourself.

As this is but a brief letter of introduction and an invitation, I ask for your forgiveness in not including any further details. We look forward to discussing further matters with you personally.

Should you accept this invitation, please make a small infusion of mana into this letter. A carriage will be sent for you.

Sincerely,

Thaxxus Baelius V. Terinthier’

‘A personal letter from one of the Guild leaders.’ Kaidus mused to himself.

It was quite laughable how eerily similar the letter was to the deceased Raleun’s invitation to join Tal’hrus.
He set the letter back onto the table after he was done.

“Well?” Nylen asked.

“Do you know about the contents of the letter? Headmaster?” Kaidus inquired.

“More or less. I am very happy for you.” Headmaster Nylen replied cheerfully.

“…”

“Reminds me of my days. Rising through the ranks of the Mystiks Guild, hoping to lead it one day, but then the king granted me this academy. Heheh… quite amusing how things worked out.” Nylen spoke, noticing that Kaidus was silent.

“…Sir. Would it be alright if I left the letter here with you? Also, if you can, please notify them of my refusal.”

“R-Refusal? My boy, won’t you take a moment to reconsider? Maybe give your answer in a day or two?” Nylen was confused. He did not think the boy would refuse.

He had spent the past turn corresponding with the Mystiks guild to elevate the boy’s reputation, securing him a future befitting someone of the boy’s extraordinary skills, but now the boy was refusing the chance. Granted, everything he had done was behind the scenes, but seeing a mage refuse an invitation from the Mystiks guild was quite a surprise to him.

The majority of all the students in the academy aspired for a job with the guild, yet here was someone who was uninterested about such opportunities. He himself had jumped at the opportunity to join the Mystiks guild in his younger days.

“It’s funny, headmaster. That is the second time this turn that I’ve been asked that very question.” Kaidus gazed at the Headmaster, noting every little movement or nuance that the old man made. His previously calm and indifferent demeanor was gone.

“Did one of those thieves from the guild approach you already?” Nylen asked with a hearty laugh.

Observing carefully, “No. No one has approached me about joining the Mystiks guild.” He gave a calm reply, his eyes not wavering from the old man for a single second.

“Well isn’t this great then? Why don’t you reconsider the offer? I know that with your abilities, a high rank within the guild is easily attainable. You do know that powerful mages are routinely given nobilities befitting their skills and ranks correct?”

“I do, headmaster. But titles are not what I am after.” He replied without a second thought.
Status was but an idea of the rich and powerful to flaunt their wealth and step on those less fortunate. He had already seen and experienced firsthand what money and status could do, and he wanted none of it for him and his family.
He already had everything he has ever wanted: a stable home, a loving family, and most vital of all, the overwhelming strength to protect those he loves.

“And what is it that you are after?”

“Answers that are beyond the walls of Ferrent and Darsus itself.” A simple and honest reply.

“… You’re turning 9 this year correct?” Nylen had to make sure. There were too many things wrong with everything that’s happening around the boy so far. The boy was too enigmatic, unfit for someone of his age and status.

“Yes. At the end of Alivai.” Another simple answer.

“…Is that why you spend most of your time in the library? What are these answers you seek? Perhaps the guild can help.” He attempted to coax the boy one more time.

“It is something of a personal nature.” Kaidus answered calmly. But this time, his tone of voice implied that he did not want to talk about it.

“Hmm… is that so… Truly unfortunate.” Nylen spoke, dejected. There were so much that the child could have accomplished in the guild, but it looks like he had his own personal agenda to pursue. “Well then, I must apologize for having disturbed your investigations.” He gave a defeated grin, ending the talk there. From the little contacts he’s had with the boy and from what he has learned, the child was one of few words. Keeping him any longer beyond the matter at hand would only result in silence.

“Then I will leave this with you.” Kaidus slid the letter on the desk back to the old headmaster.

“Ah, yes. I shall let the guild know of your refusal.” Nylen’s face drooped on the desk as he watched the young boy turn around to leave. All his efforts had been in vain. The child was already pursuing his own agendas.

“Headmaster.” The boy called out as he got to the door, turning back around to look at him.

“Yes? What is it?” Nylen’s face lit up, hoping the boy had had a change of mind.

“Do you know of Tal’hrus?”

“Where did you hear that name?!” Nylen stood straight up. His dejected features were now gone, his face was serious and worried.

 

…

 

After the boy left, Headmaster Nylen pulled out a sheet of paper and began writing.

 

—

 

Kaidus walked out of the marble building. His right hand feeling the metallic ring in his pocket. Having erased his suspicion that the headmaster may be a member of Tal’hrus, he had gambled, and the gamble had paid off.

He did not divulge everything that has happened, only that members of Tal’hrus had approached him and invited him into their organization. The reaction he got from the headmaster was one unlike any of the headmaster’s usual behavior. The old man was anxious and restlessly asking about anything that Kaidus may know. Of course he played ignorant, denying any knowledge, only that they had approached him to recruit him before promptly leaving.

On the other hand, he was able to learn something. Using the excuse of being already involved, he was able to extract some information from the headmaster.

He learned that the current war in Malpaars was the doing of Tal’hrus, as was a recent death in the royal family of the Kulis continent last year. The string of murders in the principality of Zarast, of the Unotus continent earlier this year was also their doing.

With an overwhelming amount of espionage all throughout the seven continents along with the current crimes, there has been many events over the past few decades that have been linked with the Tal’hrus organization. The headmaster had warned him that all of this was to make him an aware of the dangers the organization poses. Also that the Mystiks guild will have to be brought in to investigate.

He had also inquired about the higher ups in the Tal’hrus chain of command, but the headmaster had declined to reveal any information about them.

As he had gone straight to meet the Headmaster after the 2^nd class, he was starting to get hungry. Kaidus walked towards the student shops on the west side of the academy to join up with the group of five who were probably already having lunch.

 

…

 

It was evening, and two days after his chat with the headmaster.

Kaidus was currently in the library continuing through the collection of rumors and stories. His progress last year had been slow due to council work, but with only two classes this year, the pace was going much faster.

“Zanaeos 1223, Palx-1. Malpaars.

Villagers spoke of a giant winged beast that blotted out the sun as it swooped past their small hunting village of Trigilt, roaring as it descended upon the mountains to the north of their village. Knights were called in to investigate to no avail…”

Another possibility. He noted the time and place down in his notes, adding another tally to the sightings in Malpaars in a different page of notes.

After a year of looking through thousands of these notes and stories, he had found less than 30 sightings. The tallies were: 11 in Malpaars, 5 in Horuns, 7 in Unotus, 3 in Kulis, and 1 from Rovtoss during a Kargall mating season back 1209. The single sighting in Rovtoss was around Arauns claws.

He was one fourth of the way through with these rumors and stories, and there was really nothing conclusive about the Karugas that he has been looking for. Everything had only been vague sightings, and no proof nor evidence were ever discovered upon following up on any of the rumors from what he can tell.

He knew it could very well be a dead end, but he slogged onward through the records. Rumors and stories were bound to contain some truth to them. Over 10 sightings within 25 years cannot be a mere coincidence.

“Zanaeos 1223, Palx-16. Horuns.
An elderly man in the town of Gevanilt hired a band of mercenaries to scour the nearby forest of Twi-”

Kaidus stopped reading. The ring in his pocket was now emitting a weak mana signature. The signature was too weak, but it may bring trouble if any of the master caught wind of it. Gathering up his notes, he calmly upped and left the library, trying not to draw any attention to himself.

…

Back in his room, he pulled out the ring and placed it on his desk. The metallic ring was glowing dimly, and the mana signature was more pronounced. Uncertain of how to proceed, he infused some of his mana into the ring as he had done when he first obtained it.

This time, something drastically different happened.

“I hear my men’s have vanished. Just who are you?” The ring stopped emitting mana and a man’s voice came through.

 

—

 

“I see. So, beyond a secret incantation, this thing requires both sides to work.” A dignified voice carrying a tone of authority came through the ring in Zavon’s hand. The voice was of a man, but it was not any that he could recognize.

Earlier, three of the agents who were supposed to be in Ferrent had arrived at Headquarters. They reported that Raleun, the one in charge of the Ferrent job had gone missing along with 8 of their other agents.

The three had been working under Raleun as they monitored the boy whom they were trying to recruit, but after putting their plans into motion, they lost contact with the main group. After a whole day of silence, the three had evacuated their post and then left Ferrent after notifying the other six who were still within.

After alerting the other six, they had been traveling all this time, only arriving at HQ earlier that afternoon.

Their story explained why Raleun had not been reporting any progress about the jobs in Ferrent for the past half turn.

“Where is Raleun? And who are you?” Zavon asked the voice that had come through.

“You must be Master Zavon. I am sorry to say this, but Raleun is no longer of this world.” The voice answered.

The voice knew his name. Zavon gritted his teeth in anger at the conjecture that his men were talking. “So, you know of me?” He calmly questioned. His voice was mellow and undeterred, giving an impression that he did not care that his men were dead. Or worst, talking to people they shouldn’t be talking to.

“I do not know of you. Only your name.” A brief answer from the other side.

“If you know my name, then please allow me the honor of your own.” Zavon asked again, trying to at least find out who had captured his men.

“Who I am is of no concern to you. What should, is that I have been wanting to talk to you for quite some time.” The voice replied without delivering who he is.

“Is that so? I am honored. And what is it that you wish to discuss?” Zavon calmly replied, not allowing his agitation to be known.

“More of a warning to be precise.”

“A warning you say? And what is this warning?” He laughed inside.

“My warning to you master Zavon, is: take your band of misfits who are currently in Ferrent and any you were planning on sending here, and move them far away from this city. You do that, and I may yet allow you and that little group of yours some reprieve.”

“Kyahahahha!” He laughed out loud this time, making sure the other side could hear. “You are certainly humorous. And if I were to refuse?” This was not the first time someone had threatened them, and it surely will not be the last. Whoever this person is, he will be dealt with eventually like all before him.

“You will all die. Every last one of you in Tal’hrus.” The voice spoke solemnly.

“You think I am afraid of threats! What can you possibly do!? An unknown man hiding in Ferrent dares to challenge the might of Tal’hrus all because he’s captured a few of our subordinates? For someone who dares not even utter their name to me, you sure think highly of yourself! Stronger and more resourceful people than you have tried and failed. You too, will FAIL!” He shouted back at the ring, attempting to goad whoever was on the other side in revealing more information about himself.

“You wish to know who I am…” The voice spoke.

“…” Zavon silently waited for the mysterious voice to identify himself.

“I am the echoes of those who had been slain by the metal of injustice. I am the shadows of men long silenced and hidden from the light. I am he who rides the black winds of carnage. I am death. Prepare yourself for when next we speak, it will be face to face, and you will know that your death has come.” The voice answered in riddles.

The ring in his palm suddenly emitted a bright light before fading and turning into a normal ring. Zavon attempted to connect again with this mysterious foe, but the connection had been destroyed.

A little girl held a book in her arms, carefully making her way down a flight of stairs.

She had silky dark red hair that came down to her shoulders, and on her face were two determined beady brown eyes and two puffy cheeks. As she passed the little window by the stairs, rays of the morning sun ignited her hair, giving it a fierce fiery color wherever the light touches.

The book was large and heavy and though she could barely carry it with her small frame, she persisted down the stairs, clutching the book tightly to not let it drop or drag. She puffed out her cheeks, as if such actions would give her strength for the ordeal.

The book was taken from her older brother’s room and she was bringing it to her mother.

‘Anish is a big girl! Big girl don’t cry!’ She reminded herself, fighting back the loneliness without her older brother.

She was three years old, and will be turning four this year.

She had cried and refused to let her brother go back when school started again, but she thought herself grown up now. She didn’t even cry when her brother returned to school that morning, and was quite proud of it.

She loved her mother and father, but she especially loved her older brother. He was her most important person.

Ever since she could remember, he had always been there with her. He consoled her when their parents scolded her, watched over her as she played, played with her, showed her amazing displays of ‘magic’, read to her, taught her various things, and made her pain disappear whenever she hurt herself.

He loved her, and she adored him.

“What do you have there?” Her mother asked as she made it downstairs.

“Kaidush book.” She grinned back.

“Again? Let me see… Winged Aleiths and Birds: An ornithological Study. By Hevil Gil. Anstross, and scholars of the Graedusc Academia…” Taking the book, Adalina read the title and affiliation. “This book is too hard. Why don’t you go and get one of your story books?”

“But Kai wash weading it!” Anise protested.

In an attempt to be closer to her brother, she was going through his books and getting her mother to read them to her. This was the 2nd book.

It did not matter that she doesn’t know the letters on the pages, nor did it matter that she couldn’t comprehend the information within them. All that mattered was that her brother had read it. She wanted to imitate him. To be like him.

“What am I going to do with you?” Adalina smiled at the objection. Picking Anise up, they went to the living room and began reading.

 

…

 

*Knock* *Knock* after an early morning of countless questions about the words and their meanings, without Anise understanding very much, there was a knock on the door.

“Ah, they’re here. We’ll continue tomorrow.” Her mom told her.

“Here?” She asked curiously.

“You’ll see.” Her mother replied with a smile.

Marking their spot in the book and closing it, her mother picked her up and they went to answer the door.

Her face brightened up and became overjoyed at the sight of the guests. “Good afternoon Reanne. Hello there, Sylvia.” Her mother cheerfully greeted the guests.

“Hello Adalina.”

“Hi Mrs. Paltos.”

“Shylvia!!” Anise cried out happily. Adalina placed her on the ground, and Anise ran to give the older girl a hug.

They’ve only known each other since the beginning of Alivai last year, but Sylvia was already like a sister to her. Sylvia’s mother usually brought her over to play two to three times every time her brother went back to school, but she hadn’t seen Sylvia ever since her brother came back for his long break. Even after he returned to school again, Sylvia had not come back to play. She had missed the older girl.

“Hi Anise.” Sylvia replied, returning the hug.

“I mish you!” Anise happily confessed.

“I miss you too.”

“Anise, let Sylvia in first. Please come in you two.”

They were still in the doorway. Grabbing Sylvia’s hand, she led the older girl inside.

“Guessh what. Guessh what!” She excitedly asked as she led Sylvia to the living room.

“What is it?” The older girl answered with a warm smile.

“Hehe!” A wide grin.

Anise ran to her box of toys, returning with a tiny handful of wooden miniatures. Putting them on the table, she grabbed one to show. “Look! Ish Me!” She merrily presented a little wooden girl—small enough to fit in the palm of her hands—to Sylvia.

The wooden figure had a dress, long hair to her shoulder, and two large cheeks—reminiscent of her own cheeks. “Look!” Three more miniatures: a woman, a man, and a boy. “Thish ish Kaidush. Thish ish mommy. And thish ish daddy!” She laid out the wooden figures on the table, extremely proud of them.

“Wow. Did Kaidus make these for you?”

“Uhn!” Anise nodded happily.

 

—

 

“These are quite detailed. Did he make them using magic?” Reanne asked Adalina, taking a closer look at one of the toys on the table.

“Anise was crying and wouldn’t let go of him, so he made them to for her.” Adalina answered with a hearty smile.

“That boy never ceases to amaze, does he?” Reanne inquired with a grin. “Adalina, there’s something I thought you should know. Although the nobles usually show little interest in these sort of things outside of their own wards, the rumors about a certain trial has started circulating within the 11th ward. Soon, all 3 wards will know about it. And once the nobles start talking, you can be sure the royal palace will hear of it.” Reanne notified Adalina with a solemn face.

“Reanne… don’t tell me you…” Adalina spoke, an accusative voice towards the gossip loving woman. She had learned that the Varath family came to watch Kaidus’ Trial from Troyle a couple days ago.

“I would do no such thing!” Reanne replied, cutting off the accusation. “That does not serve my plans at all. I myself am dissatisfied that the information even got out of the 3rd ward.” She added.

“Is that why you haven’t been visiting?” Adalina teased, seeing Reanne all riled up.

The last time she saw Reanne and Sylvia was at the end of the year, before Kaidus came back for his long break. It was only yesterday that Troyle told her they would be visiting again.

When these home visits first started, she had been nervous because of the difference in social status, but Reanne quickly remedied that. Lady Varath was a genial person who spoke her mind, loved her family, and someone who she easily got along with. Of course there is the woman’s hunger for information and ambitions, but those were minor demerits to her friendship.

Adalina had known about how the Varath family wanted to wed their daughter to her son for almost a year now, and she herself was all for it. There was nothing to dislike about a promise between their two households.

Sylvia was a cute and well behaved child from a wealthy noble family, her son was an amazing child—in her opinion—and arranged marriages were also common in the world. Their two families got along very well, and the marriage would elevate her son—broadening his future with the influences of Lord Varath.

They were still kids, but wishing to see her son married to a nice girl like Sylvia was a mother’s dream.

Yet, her son had refused the proposal. Surprisingly it did nothing to discourage Lord and Lady Varath, only fueling them to push forward. That was why the visits started.

Troyle also told her of another refusal two turns ago, and after not seeing Lady Reanne and Sylvia for a whole turn—even after Kaidus returned to school—she was beginning to think they had given up, but that did not seem to be the case.  

“Well that, and Sylvia’s been quite busy with her lessons lately.” A sly grin returned to Reanne’s face.

“Oh? How is that coming along?” Adalina returned a broad knowing smile. Reanne has already told her that she was teaching Sylvia how to become a proper lady: all to ensnare Kaidus. Adalina was in on the plans, feeding them information about Kaidus.

“She’s been quite serious about it. Kaidus will have his hands full.” Reanne replied. The two women chuckled heartily.

The two women started talking about events that transpired over the past two turns, while Anise and Sylvia played together.

 

—

 

The four of them were currently in the 3rd ward market. It was a beautiful sunny day, and they were leisurely strolling through the streets, browsing the different wares and products on display.

Their goal was to look for ingredients for lunch and dinner, but they had gotten sidetracked and it was now past lunch already.

“How about dronnon stew?” Adalina threw out an idea for lunch.

“Shtew?” Anise inquired from her arms.

“What are you thinking of adding to the stew?” Reanne asked.

“Heart of plamuses—cores of the plamus plant—are abundant right now so we can get them for a bargain. Also, what do you think about ciscut leaves? Sliced into thin strips, they’ll give the stew a nice aroma and texture. Along with herbs and spices, it’ll be delicious.” Adalina answered.

“That sounds perfect.” Reanne easily agreed.

 

…

 

“Hi!!!” Anise greeted a woman who was selling meat as they approached the shop.

“Why hello there Anise. Shopping with your mom?” The woman greeted back warmly.

“UHN! Big shister Shylvia too!”

“Sylvia’s here too?” The woman giggled. “Hello everyone. What would you all like today?” She smiled, turning to Adalina and Reanne.

“Hello Mrs. Filtoir.”

“Good afternoon.”

“Good afternoon Jannis. Three cuts of dronnon hind meat please.” Adalina answered.

“Of course. I’ll get you the best.”

The woman proceeded to weigh large chunks of meat on a balance scale.

“Dajele said you guys got a new litter of around forty baby dronnits. How is the work coming along?”

“Dreadful. Those buggers eat endlessly, and constantly fight when they’re not eating. Thankfully most of them will be here soon enough.” The woman grinned.

Tightly wrapping three slabs of meat into two separate bundles of paper, she handed them to Adalina.

“Sounds like you two have your hands full.” Adalina smiled, handing six double bits to the woman.

“I am done with that. The kids and Dajele are the ones who will have to deal with them now.” Jannis grinned wickedly. “Thank you for your patronage.”

“I can see the look on his face already.” She laughed, picturing the trouble of taking care of 40 baby dronnits. “Well then, I’ll see you in a couple of days.” Adalina added as they left.

“BAI!!!!” Anise yelled, waving goodbye.

 

—

 

The group rounded a few more stores, procuring their ingredients, and making friendly conversations with vendors.

After an afternoon of purchases, they were walking through the Shorza district with armloads of grocery, approaching the Paltos house.

Adalina held the wrapped dronnon meat in one hand as she carried a small cloth bag filled with heart of plamuses. Reanne carried the other wrapped meat, and also held a bag of plants, herbs, and condiments in her other hand. Sylvia held onto Anise’s hands, trailing behind their mothers.

The four walked slowly so that Anise could keep pace with them.

“Your mother says your lessons are coming along very well, Sylvia.” Adalina spoke to the girl walking behind them.

“No… I-I still have a lot to learn.” An embarrassed reply.

“Don’t be shy. Aren’t you doing your best for Kaidus?” Adalina replied, teasing the girl.

“Uhn…” Sylvia acknowledged, but quickly lowered her gaze to hide her embarrassment.

“That is so cute.” Adalina replied to the embarrassed girl.

“She’s right about it. She still has a lot to learn if she wants to catch that son of yours.” Reanne interjected, giggling at her daughter’s cute reaction. “Still, I’m amazed you do this almost every day.” Reanne changed the topic as they reached the house.

“I only buy this much when you are here to help me carry them.” Adalina joked. She knew Reanne meant going out shopping every day. Not the amount of groceries they had procured.

“Hmmm? That so? I really should hire you that maid then.” Reanne countered, playing along.

After the first couple times buying groceries together, she had offered to hire Adalina a maid or two to help out around the house and shopping. Adalina had refused, saying it was unnecessary.

“Reanne you… Kuhuheheh.” She laughed. “Thanks for always helping. And please, no on the maid.” Adalina graciously thanked her friend. She would rather do things for her family herself, than leave it to others.

 “Look Anise!” Sylvia pointed to a small flock of birds in the sky.

“Birdy!” Anise shouted happily as she saw the birds. “Mommy! Birdy!”

“That’s right. Now come on in.” Adalina replied, opening the door for them all.

“OH!!” Anise suddenly remembered something and dashed inside. Darting over to her toy box, she brought back something. “Look! Birdy!” She exclaimed, showing a little wooden bird to Sylvia as Sylvia sat down on one of the chairs.

“Wow. It looks just like a lippar!” Sylvia complimented cheerfully.

“Uh huh! Ish my birdy!” Anise asserted, gently petting the little wooden bird before giving it over to Sylvia.

“Did Kaidus make this too?”

“UHN! Kai make for Anish!” Anise confirmed with an over exaggerated nod. Her face was beaming at the mention of her brother’s name.

“You love your brother, don’t you?” Sylvia replied with a smile, seeing Anise’s jubilant face.

“UHN!”

The two resumed their playing as Adalina and Reanne made lunch.

 

—

 

She was tired. The sky was turning dark, and her big sister Sylvia and Sylvia’s mother had already gone home.

In the house was just her mother and herself.

Having played and talked the whole day with Sylvia, she sat on the floor in front of her wooden figurines, exhausted. They had played tag, knight and monster, the little village girl, hide and seek, and made up stories with the toys. Sylvia even taught her a song and showed her a few dances.

“Did you have fun?” Her mother asked, picking her up and carrying her upstairs.

“Uhn.”

“Do you like Sylvia?”

“Uhn! Anish like Shylvia lots…” She responded tiredly. She had no concept of what a friend is, but she knew she liked the older girl.

Sylvia was nice to her like her big brother.

“Mommy does too. How about Kaidus? Do you like her as much as Kaidus?” Her mother questioned, gently placing her into her own bed before lighting a candle on the nightstand.

“Anish love Kai… lot.” She verbalized as sleep overtook her. Her fingers grabbing for the gift he had given her this morning—hidden under her dress.

 

—

 

Adalina gently stroke her daughter’s hair as the girl fell asleep. She watched fondly as the little girl slept, thinking about the child’s actions over the past turn. Her little girl was growing up and selfishly following in her big brother’s footsteps. Adalina giggled at what Anise was trying to do, and at how much she revered her older brother.

Even though they were very different from each other, she loved both her children dearly.

Watching the girl for a span of time, the sleeping girl stirred, turning in the bed.

Looking at the child’s cute sleeping posture—sideways, hands together under the blanket—Adalina noticed a gleam around her daughter’s neck, reflecting the flickering candle light. She had not been paying attention and had not noticed it all day.

It was a transparent string.
Gently pulling at the string, there was some resistance. With a stronger tug, the resistance gave way, and something came loose.

The string was made of an unknown material to her, and as she pulled it free, she saw that it was a necklace around her daughter’s neck.

On the necklace was a small plain black ring.

“Don’t bother trying to scream. No one will hear you. I made sure of that.” An imposing voice swam through the room.

Like the silent voices of his opponents, he had already isolated the room with a sound barrier, preventing any noise from escaping.
Stepping toward those who were frozen and poised to attack him,

“You all followed me meticulously for days, even going out of your way to stage an elaborate hoax. Now you think I believe you, just because you tell me you would stop? I am baffled by your naivety!” His calm voice rang sharply through the room.

The seven attempted to shout back, but nothing came out of their mouths.

“Fear not. All those “information” that you refuse to disclose? You WILL fill me in on the details.” He grinned.

It had taken everything he had to stop himself from executing those boys during the Rjus. Here, there was nothing to stop him this time: no emotional constraints, no feelings of sympathy, no possible witnesses, nothing. In front of him were just insects who murdered and destroy families to further their own agendas.

After untold eons, after living this new life for almost nine years, there was finally something worthy of his hatred. The vengeance inside him had unraveled.

“Mr. Raleun.” Kaidus walked over to the man who was undoubtedly the leader. “I will ask you what I want to know, and you will tell me everything. Refusal will end with the life of your comrades, and it will not be painless.” He threatened. Not a shred of pity in his voice.

To prove that he was not fooling around, one of the two unconscious body started writhing, then went limp.

Even in the dimness of the room, everyone could see a pitch-black shadow descending on the body. The shadow enveloped the body, then as if alive, squirmed back into the shadows after a couple seconds. The body had vanished.

“You all will not be going so easily.” He cautioned, and seeing the fear in their eyes, his little demonstration had produced the desired effect.
“First question. How long have you been tailing me?” He asked the man called Raleun.

“Asiran! Va-!” The man attempted to cast a spell, but his voice vanished again.

“It’s was an easy question.” Kaidus casually scolded.
With a thought, an orb of light appeared in front of him, illuminating the room again. He wanted to make sure they all saw what was in store for them. “Hasen. Show them what true agony is.” In the brightness of the light, there was an abyssal shadow. Formless, yet moving about the room. Within seconds, it moved to cover one of the frozen men who had charged at him.

As they watched, the man that was enveloped in the darkness began distorting. His body was being forcibly twisted by the darkness. Sound of bones were crushed, limbs breaking as they were bent in unimaginable angles, bits and pieces of the man started being ripped apart. The body slowly vanished as the black cloud consumed it.

After Hasen finished, only a pool of blood remained.

“Well? How long have you all been tailing me?” He asked again.

“PISS ON YO-!” Raleun screamed out before being silenced again. Intense pain shot through him. His body felt like it was burning for an instant before the sensation vanished.

“It does not look like you value your comrades very much.” Kaidus scolded. With a thought, one of the woman’s face distorted in pain—one of the three who charged him. Her mouth opened to scream, but there was only silence. “You had, but a taste of it.” He told Raleun as everyone looked at the woman.

Standing a good pace away, he silently watched as the woman’s skin started bubbling, then ignited into flames. The heat melted away the ice and the woman began thrashing around the room briefly before finally being consumed by the fire.

“Maybe I should ask someone else.” Kaidus turned to the terrified woman in the back. “Mrs. Wazanir wasn’t it? Won’t you tell me?” He questioned the scared woman. “And before you get any ideas, ask yourself if you would like to die an agonizing death.” He calmly warned before undoing her silence spell.

“S-Since the 2^nd of Guso…” The woman replied. Not a shred of resistance in her voice.

A shock of surprise assaulted him at the answer. They had been following him for almost a fortnight before he even realized it. Anger swelled within him. Angry that it had taken him so long to notice. In that time, something could have happened to his family. He had been too careless.

“What is the true purpose in tailing me?” He tried to calmly ask his question, beating back his anger.

“T-To f-find an opportunity t-to test your magic.” The woman quickly answered.

“… It doesn’t look like I need you anymore, Raleun.” He spoke to antagonize the man behind him.

“What is Tal’hrus?” Quickly recovering his calm, he asked the next question.

“I- I… I don’t…” The woman suddenly became hesitant.

With another thought, the last of the three who had charged him slowly froze over. His face turned blue as his body temperature evaporated, and the man slowly died as his whole body solidified. The frozen body then shattered into tiny pieces.

“Trust me, it was painful. You will be next.” He told her. He knew she was scared. She just needed another push to get him what he wants.

“P-please! I b-beg you! Spare me!” She pleaded.

“Then answer my questions!” He bellowed, giving an intolerant glare.

Without further resistance, the woman began spilling everything she knew.

From her knowledge, Tal’hrus was an organization that emerged shortly after the last Great War, forty-seven years ago.
A hierarchal organization with a single leader, and below him were seven masters who acted as his arms and legs, moving to his will.
Each master is said to be extremely skilled and given charge of operations in one of the seven continents. Under those masters are subordinates who moved as units of ten to twenty people, carrying out missions all throughout their respective area.
For missions, the masters form a unit from their agents and gives a leader that he selects a special item that helps them easily contact the master.
It was a well-funded and secret organization that worked in the shadows, doing everything from assassinations, espionage, political manipulation, instigating rebellions, to extortion, blackmail, kidnapping, human trafficking, and so forth…
She did not know who funded the organization, but that it had footholds in all of the seven continents.

The woman would hesitate to tell him about some of the specifics here and there, but each time she would end up with a broken bone and excruciating pain, enticing her to keep the information flowing. With a satisfied answer, he would heal her to alleviate her pain. All the while she was talking to save herself, he could see the hatred in Raleun’s eyes and those of the other’s as their secrets came out.

He even learned that there was a total of eighteen Tal’hrus agents in Ferrent altogether. With some truly agonizing tactics, he was able to get their general whereabouts out of her. Two currently in the 7^th ward, two in the 9^th ward, another two in the 2^nd ward. The last three were in the 11^th ward, monitoring his movements in and out of the academy.

“Who are your masters? And who is this leader?” He finally asked, after making various inquisitions about the organization and the current operations in Ferrent.

“My *hah…* my master is only known by the name Zavon… I-I do not know the names of the leader… or the other masters… *ha…* please… no more…” Having given up on resisting, she easily answered, pleading for mercy.

“One last question. How many teams are operating in Darsus? And how many in the other continents?”

“Please… I don’t know. We-, we are never given information about other teams or their jobs.”

‘Hmm…’ He thought for a second, then dispersed a thin wave of mana throughout the room. The purpose of it was to detect a magical item. ‘There you are.’ A wide smile was on his face as he turned to look at Raleun.

“It looks like I really have no further use for you. I apologize, but we won’t be getting to that chat after all.” He spoke to the defiant man that was glaring back at him. “And I’ll also be taking that ring.”

Within moments, Raleun’s frozen and immobile left hand shattered, and the ring fell. Before it could hit the ground, it jerked upward and flew to Kaidus.

“Does that hurt?” He taunted, seeing the man’s eyes fill with anger and pain. “Don’t worry. Your suffering is just about to begin.” A sinister grin appeared on Kaidus’ face as the man’s own started changing into one of anguish. “Can you feel it? Thousands of tiny needles stabbing into you?” He asked.

“How many innocent lives have you taken I wonder? Just how many people have you all tortured for information, just like this?” He pondered out loud, leaving the man to his agony.

Not sparing a second glance at Raleun, he took a closer look at the ring in his hand. He could feel traces of magic within the ring. Infusing a small portion of mana into it, nothing happened.

“How do I use this?” He asked the woman.

“I don’t know… only the person who it was given to knows.” She gave a defeated reply.

“How lucky for you, Raleun.” Kaidus turned back to the bleeding man. The blood had seeped through the man’s clothes, dyeing his prison of ice a blood-red color. Kaidus healed the man to prolong his suffering. “Tell me how to use this, and I will free you from your misery.” He offered, undoing the silence spell once again.

“*hah…hah…* I… I will never- betray my master!” Breathing heavily, Raleun angrily shouted. Glaring at the woman, he turned and spat at Kaidus.

Kaidus deflected the man’s last act of defiance with a side step. “I understand.” The man was too loyal to his cause. Any further questions would get him nowhere.

One of the wooden chairs in the room slid over from its position by a desk. The chair started splintering until there were thousands of tiny pieces of sharp splinters hovering in the air.

Kaidus took a couple steps to stand in front of Raleun. The stone floor under him elevated and pushed him up to the man’s eye level.

Without warning, he thrust his right hand into the left side of the man’s chest, easily going through the thick ice and breaking skin to penetrate the muscles underneath. Blood spurted out and with a crack, he pulled out pieces of ribs. There was a gaping hole in the man’s chest. A window to his beating heart.

All the while, the man was screaming in pain.

“Every of your little friends in Ferrent will follow you soon enough.” Kaidus whispered in the man’s ears, as thousands of splinters entered through the opening in his chest. The shards embedded themselves into the heart and forced their way through the inside of his body.

“Four of you left.” He spoke to those who had been watching, leaving Raleun to suffer. Three of them were frozen while the fourth was unconscious and on the floor.

“Any last words?” He asked, removing the silence on all of them. There was a smile like that of a playful child on his face.

“PLEASE! I’ve told you everything!” The woman screamed out.

“Yes, you have. Thank you for the information.” He made a bow of gratitude toward the woman. Turning to the other two, “Give me your best shot.” He goaded the two who were already chanting their spells.

The stone floor rose up, knocking him off balance and throwing him into the air as ice lances shot at him. With a gust of wind, he spun his own body in midair, stabilizing himself. A quick swipe with his right arm shattered the incoming lances and blew them across the room as he landed back on the raised floor.
“I will take those as your last words.” Kaidus voiced to the man and woman who were now shouting at him in silence.

He stepped off the raised platform, and a piece of it broke off. The piece of stone turned into a stone serpent and began undulated toward the two frozen attackers.

“It is a shame. I had only just healed you earlier.” He directed his condolences to the man.

The stone snake, not much larger than his own arm started slithering up the man. Reaching the man’s head, it forced its way into the man’s mouth and crawled inside, situating itself in the man’s throat before expanding. There was a large bulge in the man’s neck and the color of the man’s face changed as he slowly suffocated, ultimately ending in the neck bursting as the serpent bloated itself up.

“HALLEX!!” The woman who was playing the unfortunate man’s wife screamed out. Without waiting any longer, the other frozen woman and the man who was unconscious on the floor burst into flames. Everyone besides “Mrs. Wazanir” was dead.

“Again, thank you for the information.” He spoke, his voice cold and indifferent.

“I’ve told you everything you wanted to know! Please! Have mercy!!” She begged.

“There will be no mercy tonight.” He replied, staring her in the eyes.

The woman’s eyes widened. He saw her realization. That he was never there to negotiate. That there was never any hope of escape.

“Hasen.” A single word.

“NO! PLE-” The woman tried to beg as a dark shadow flitted through her. Her head vanished.

“Master…” Hasen spoke.

“Leave no traces.” He ordered, putting the ring he had taken from Raleun in his pocket.

With a single thought, the blood on his clothes moved as if alive, conglomerating into a blob on his hand before falling onto the ground. Walking toward the wall, he willed them to open up into the darkness of the alley.

Kaidus strolled out of the room without looking back. Hasen encircled and cloaked him in shadows once more, and he vanished into the night.

 

—

 

“KAI!! Wake up! Brahkfest!” Anise was shouting at him.

Opening his eyes, he could see she was already up and was sitting next to him—on the bed. A big smile on her face, and her cheeks sunken with dimples on them.

“Morning, Anise.”

“Heheh. Anish wake up before you!” She boasted proudly.

“You did.” He grinned at her as he sat up.

His little trip last night had only been for a couple hours, but sustaining multiple spells for long durations—while using a plethora of spells at the same time—had exhausted him. His childish body was still unable to perform up to par with his demands.

“I’ll race you downstairs.” He quickly told Anise. He smiled and watched as she rapidly got off the bed and darted out of the room, laughing as she fled.

“Good morning you two. Hurry up and go wash your faces. Breakfast is getting cold.” Adalina scolded as they appeared downstairs.

“Where’s Mr. and Mrs. Wazanir?” Kaidus politely inquired about their guests as he sat down for breakfast.

“I’m curious myself. They weren’t in their room when I called them for breakfast earlier.” Adalina replied.

“Why didn’t you call me?” Kaidus asked his mother.

“Anise wanted to wake you up.” Adalina grinned.

“Anish wake up before Kaidush!” Anise boasted, beaming at her mother.

“That’s right. Your brother is getting lazy, it’ll be your job to stop him from becoming so.” Adalina happily patted her daughter’s head, congratulating her.

“Well, what happened to them?” Kaidus asked, feigning ignorance and rerouting the topic of their discussion.

“Maybe they left earlier this morning? It did look like the Missus was in a hurry to get home.” Troyle answered.

“Maybe… they did say they have kids…”  Adalina added.

Kaidus watched and discussed with his family about the odd guests, and talked about various thing to do for the day, and days up ahead.

After breakfast, he moved to his room to contemplate his next moves.
There was the matter of putting measures in place to protect his family, along with the fact that there were also nine more bugs within Ferrent who needed to be crushed.