“Don’t do it, Parne. That would only rouse suspicion!” The man quietly reproached the woman who had gotten out of their sleeping place.

“Shut up Hallex! If you hadn’t fallen unconscious and hadn’t agree to stay the night, we’d already be done with our job!” The woman angrily retorted.

“That couldn’t be helped! That man wasn’t about to let us leave in our state. I could see the worry in his eyes.” Hallex replied logically. “And what’s the rush? Our job is over already. We’ve confirmed what we were sent in to confirm!” He added.

“I’m not staying here any longer Hallex! You saw him, you should know what I mean! We need to warn the others!” The woman argued back.

It was fleeting, but they both witnessed the abilities of the young boy first hand.

Voiceless incantation, instantaneous manifestation of magic, his extraordinary healing abilities. Even the calm he exhibited as he cleaned and addressed the vile wound unsettled her. Of all their agents currently in Ferrent, none was capable of what they had seen. Even their master, Zavon, was not one capable of voiceless incantation. Only two of the eight masters, and the Old master was capable of such.

Yet, it was not the overbearing skills the boy displayed which frightened her. How the child had done everything so casually, as if he was merely breathing. That was what terrified her.

Even when she was playing her part as the good wife, begging the boy to heal Hallex, a foreboding sense of fear was already wrapping around her. It was one of the reasons why she had refused the man’s offer to stay the night.

“You’re overthinking it Parne. He may be skilled, but I doubt he’s suspected anything. If we leave now, it’ll be even more suspicious when they find us gone tomorrow!” Hallex attempted to persuade his partner.

The two were sleeping on the floor in the little girl’s room.
Their hosts had been kind enough to stack three blankets as a mattress for them, and the makeshift bed was as comfortable as could be. The exhausted man only wanted one thing: to sleep. The woman on the other hand, was anxious to finish their mission as soon as possible.

Ever since they were confident about the boy’s movements, their plan had been set in motion. All to verify the boy’s abilities. Even the man’s deathly wound that could have taken his life—if not his arm, was real. The wound was inflicted for this specific occasion, and left to fester to make their story as genuine as possible.

They had decided against hiring others outside of the organization as it was too risky, so the man had taken it upon himself for this life-threatening escapade. The previous few days with the festering wound had been grueling and insufferable. There were even times when he begged his accomplices to hack off his arm, just to save him from the pain. Having at last been freed, Hallex was in no hurry to resume his duties.

“I don’t care Hallex! I’m leaving with our without you!” Parne was already at the door of their room.

“Damn it Parne! Fine! Come give me a hand!” Hallex finally agreed. It would be even more awkward if he was the only one there tomorrow.

Quietly opening the door, the house was dead silent. Parne and Hallex stealthily exited the room and in the dark and made their way to the stairs. Upon reaching the first floor, Parne pulled Hallex against the wall and listened. There was movement on the first floor of the house.

Their eyes having adjusted to the dark, the two could see other dark figures in the house.

Staying motionless for what felt like an eternity,

“Hallex? Parne?” A woman finally whispered. It was one of their own.

“Lile! What are you doing here?” Parne whispered back, relieved at the reinforcement.

“You guys never came out. Raleun sent us in to investigate. What happened?” The man whispered.

“Help me with Hallex. We need to get everyone out of here.”

 

—

 

Cloaked in shadows, Kaidus stalked the five who had cautiously left his house.
He had known something was up ever since the first ryes of the new term. There were always presences following him whenever he left the academy or his house. To what purpose, he did not know. As long as they did not act, he could do nothing but keep vigilant.

At first, he thought them to be after his family, but after the second ryes, it was clear that he was their target.

On his way home earlier, the presences had vanished.
There was no one tailing him. The usual four presences as he made his way home were not there, and then there were the visitors.

He had known right away something was off.
Their story was quite convincing. Quite so, to the point where he could see that Adalina was sympathetic to their plight. As soon as he began infusing mana into the man’s arm, he could feel the man’s own raw mana from within. Mages knew better than to engage in close combat against skilled swordsmen, and it would be impossible for mere bandits to even scratch an accomplished mage.

Curious about the reasons, he had moderately healed the man, then put him to sleep. The two had claimed to be from the 4^th ward and a trip back would take too long by the time he wakes the man up, causing Troyle and Adalina to offer rest for the night. If they had not stayed, there were plans to follow them, but that had not been the case.

The patterns of his stalkers had changed, and then the curious visitors. He was not going to take any chances. He had told Hasen to alert him if anything happens for that exact reason, and his assumptions held true. He could sense the two moving about in the other room, and there were also an additional three presences entering the house when he woke. Hasen had even notified him of their genders.

The five moved in unison, moving through the alleys and taking to the shadows to avoid the night patrols. Even with the handicap of the man called Garuhn, from their movements, he could see they were not amateurs. He was dealing with skilled operatives of some sort.

Following the five, they stopped in an alley of the Hannelain district–another residential area bordering his own district of Shorza–between two modestly sized buildings.

A small wisp of flame appeared in the middle of the five. Within seconds, another manifested further in the alley. Two more figures were there.

“You guys are late. You two should have been here before nightfall.” One of the two figures spoke. A woman.

“Where is Raleun!?” The wife, Mrs. Wazanir inquired.

“Awaiting you two. I assume you have accomplished your mission?”

“Yes! Now take us to Raleun!” The woman spoke anxiously.

“Of course.”

With an incantation, the wall of one of the building opened up, revealing a large and well-lit room inside. Mr. and Mrs. Wazanir entered.

 

—

 

“Hallex! Parne! Looks like they found you.” Raleun happily received the two who entered. He had been waiting all night for any updates about the situation. “Something happened?” He asked, seeing the look on Parne’s face.

As the wall closed behind them, “The information is true. The child knows healing magic and can heal others.” Parne quickly spoke up. Raleun’s face lit up at the news. “Raleun, we need to cease all operations for the time being and reevaluate our plans.” She advised. A sense of terror had been clawing at her ever since they left the residence.

“Nonsense. We must move onto phase two of the plan at once!” Raleun joyfully reveled at the success. “Martis, you will engage the boy next-”

“Raleun!” Parne interrupted the man. “We are dealing with an unknown factor here! At least call in the others.” Parne warned. Currently, only twelve of them were working on this case pertaining to the boy, and nine of them were operating in the 3^rd ward. There were seven of them in the room at the moment while the other two were outside on guard duty. “The child is not as ordinary as we thought him to be!” She shouted back, irritated at the man.

Raleun kept his composure through the interruption. “What about you Hallex? What do you have to say?” Raleun turned to Parne’s Partner.

“I care not about the future plans. My job is already over. I just want to sleep.” Hallex replied, taking steps toward the interior of the building. He was weary from everything that had transpired. “You’re overthinking it Parne. You should get some rest too.” Hallex urged. Two others fell in with him, moving towards the rooms.

“Don’t be daft Hallex! The boy boiled water instantly without an incantation! Your swollen and rotting arm recovered within seconds! All, might I add, WITHOUT invoking any incantations!” She retorted angrily. The three stopped moving, and everyone in the room looked at her grimly.

“Parne, stop it already. We’re already here with everyone. If you were so afraid, we should have stuck to my idea and spent the night there instead of returning.” Hallex was tired. He did not want to argue any further.

“If we hadn’t left that room, Lile, Martis, and Jahren would have risked being discovered!” Parne threw in the coincidence, calling out the others in the room.

“Enough. That was my call to send them in after you two. You did not show at the appointed time, we thought you had been exposed.” Raleun interjected. “With you two returned and everything accounted for, we will proceed with phase two.” He ordered.

“Am I the only one seeing the bigger picture?!” Parne cried out. “How many people know voiceless incantations?!” She shouted, presenting her point.

She could see one or two of the other’s agreeing with her.

“That is why we must proceed, Parne. Think! If what you said is true, imagine how much easier our jobs would be from now on if we could bring him to our side! The losses we suffer in combat would drop dramatically!” Raleun replied.

“And if he does not join us? What then?!” She argued.

“Then we follow through with our orders and get rid of him before he could become problematic.” A calm reply, confident and unwary of any dangers.

“…” She did not know what to say to that. Hearing the calm confidence in Raleun’s voice in comparison to her own anxiety, she stopped to think.

Their overall strength consisted of 18 well trained mages, all at the rank of Raezil. Raleun, the one in charge of their operations in Ferrent was bordering the strength of a Malgin. Their unit had been trained to work and fight as a group, complimenting each other’s abilities. Although powerful in their own right, as a unit, they were even capable of defeating a high ranked Malgin with little losses. Perhaps she was thinking too much about the situation at hand. After all, their opponent was only a child.

She had been spooked when it was just Hallex and herself, but now they were back in their base of operations, a sense of calm started budding inside her. A sense of comfort in numbers, fighting the unknown terror that claws at her.

It wouldn’t hurt to at least proceed with the already established plan, and see if they could sway the child to their side. She was thinking to herself. Even if the plan fails, there were many other ways to persuade people who have a family.

“Fine. But my job is over. I will be spectating from here on out.” She finally responded, adding her own conditions.

“Of course. Please go and get some rest.” Raleun replied.

“How about a-” Hallex spoke, but the walls suddenly opened again. Stopping in their tracks, Parne and Hallex turned in sync with the others in the room to look at the opening. No one entered.

“Keele? Wirleigh?” Raleun asked. They were the two on guard outside.

… No answer.

Two bodies came flying in through the opening, hitting the ground limply as they slid towards those in the room. The bodies of their two guards.

A shadow stepped out of the darkness and into the room.
The light of the room illuminated the intruder as he entered, and the seven stared in shock. A young boy with deep black hair and his whole body shrouded in shadows, stood before them.

The walls closed behind him.

 

—

 

“Fear not, they are merely unconscious.” Kaidus took the initiative and spoke first.

In the room were the ones that had been following him all Guso, along with the couple from this evening. “I apologize for the visit.” He greeted. The shadows that cloaked him vanished as he strolled toward the group.

Four of the seven in the room quickly poised themselves for battle. There were three women and four men—excluding the two that were passed out on the floor.

“Please allow me to inquire as to who you all are, and why you have been following me.”  He spoke calmly as he strolled forward, his keen eyes watching those in the room. Many of them had looks of confusion. Catching Mrs. Wazanir’s eyes, he could see she was starting to panic. A man in his mid-30’s stood in the middle of the room and gazed at him calmly before motioning for the others to stop what they were about to do.

“Well, this certainly expedites our plans.” The man spoke. A hint of surprise in his voice.

“Raleun w-!” The woman nervously called out, but was motioned to stop.

“How very generous of you to join us, ‘Kaidus’. May I offer you something to drink?” The man calmly asked, his mouth curving into a smile. He had emphasized the name as a warning and to let Kaidus know that they knew him.

“I’m afraid I do not have time for pleasantries. Please allow me an answer to my questions.” Kaidus stared back at the man, undeterred by the intimidation.

“How unfortunate.” The man almost sounded disappointed as he stepped forward to stand before Kaidus. “Before I answer your question, may I ask if you came alone? And did you do that to my guards?”

“I am, and I did.” Kaidus promptly replied.

“I see… I am Raleun. As for your questions, we are Tal’hrus. We have been following you to ascertain your abilities.” Raleun answered with a friendly smile.

“For what purpose? What is it you are after, Raleun of Tal’hrus?”

“You, of course.” A blunt and unexpected reply. “My superiors are very interested in your… abilities. They wish for you to join us.” The man spoke outright about their goal. Looking into the man’s eyes, he could see that the man did not see him as a threat.

“Then why go through all this trouble? This charade?” Kaidus spoke, looking at the woman and man who had disguised themselves as a couple.

“Alas, we were unsure of how to approach you. All of us have heard the rumors of your healing magic, but we had to make sure they were true. My apologies for doubting them.” The man replied cordially.

The other six in the room stood silently as they listened to the conversation.

“And your superiors?” Kaidus inquired.

“I apologize, but I cannot reveal such information. Join us, and you will know soon enough.” Raleun replied.

“What is Tal’hrus?” Kaidus changed the subject.

“We are, but a collection of mages trying to make the world a better place. Nothing more.” Raleun gave a simple answer, “I know this is sudden, but thank you for coming to see us.” The man spoke before he could investigate any further. “Everything since the beginning of Guso has been all for this moment. We, of Tal’hrus would like for you to join us.” The man bowed his head low as he made the proposal.

“I am sorry, but I must refuse.” Kaidus gave a curt reply. The man’s eyes flickered for an instant.

“I assure you; it would be in your best interest. There are many benefits we can provide. Information, wealth, even assistance in cultivating your abilities to even greater heights. We also know you frequent many book stores. With the power of our organization, even rare books are not a problem.” Raleun attempted to entice him.

“I must still refuse. Surely there are better candidates out there to spend your resources on, than a child like me.” Kaidus replied.

“You don’t-” The man tried to speak.

“For whatever reasons, I cannot join you. I have my own plans.” Kaidus interrupted. Without waiting for explanations, “You have learned what you wanted, and I have given you my answer. I assume this will be the end of all this?” Kaidus questioned the man, his voice full of resolve and unyielding.

“Yes… of course.” Raleun politely replied, giving up the recruitment.

“Well then, sorry to intrude and please excuse me.” He turned to head back toward the wall.

 

—

 

Raleun quickly signaled the others to begin phase three of their plans as the boy was leaving.
Seeing the condition of Keele and Wirleigh, he had thought against it, but there were seven of them, and the child was but a single child. If they killed him now, they could easily dispose of the body. Not a single trace would be left as evidence and no one would even know that the boy had been there. It would also save them the trouble of doing it later.

With nods of acknowledgment from everyone but Parne, three of his accomplices charged toward the boy as he and two others began incantations of their own to bind the child.

Yet before any of them could finish, an eerie laughter, one unlike that of a child resounded through the room. The boy had stopped walking and they themselves were all frozen in place.

A field of ice bound them all, preventing any movements. The ice encapsulated them from their legs up to their arms, leaving only the head. A high-grade ice immobilization spell, Raleun’s eyes widened in disbelief.

“Ku- Kuahaha…. Hahahaha!!! Thank you! I am thankful, that people like you all still litter this world! I will have no qualms about this!” A different voice reverberated through the room, suffocating those in it. A sinister voice was full of excitement, anger, and hatred.

The boy slowly turned around and as he did so, darkness descended.
Trinkets, magical gadgets, and candles that illuminated the room died out. The only source of light, was coming from the child’s now glowing silver hair and his cold unforgiving eyes that were emitting a bluish hue.

Raleun tried to finish his incantation, but he had no voice. Turning his head sideways, he caught Parne’s pale white face. It was filled with terror.

“Hello there Kaidus!” A burly man past his prime exclaimed happily.

“Good afternoon Mr. Genum.” Kaidus replied with a smile, taking off his hood.

Mr. Genum was a man in his early 50’s, and the first person to let Kaidus borrow from his store. He had known the man ever since he was two years old, and has been a regular at this store ever since. While the man had a large and stout build giving off an image of a veteran mercenary, he claims to be a scholar in his younger days before opening the bookstore.

“Here for my new stock?” The graying man asked with a grin. He knew Kaidus well.

“I am. Are they in the same place?” Kaidus replied with a knowing grin of his own as he returned a borrowed book.

 It was the 3^rd of Guso, and he would be heading back to the academy tomorrow for preparations. Having lain low at home for the past few days, today was his last chance to make one last round of the bookstores before the new term starts.

“I was starting to worry I wouldn’t see you again this turn.” Mr. Genum joyously replied as he pulled out a couple of books from behind the counter. “Logistics of the Trade by Alson Foresburn, a traveling merchant. Fallen colors of the Phrae by a scholar named Goerzin Trablerin, detailing his extensive research into the elusive spirits….” The old man started naming off the books as he pulled them out.

“Looks like Kenus brought in quite the load this time.” Kaidus replied, ogling the books in front of him. He recognized a couple of them but a few looked to be new additions to the world of literature. “Why were they kept behind the counter?”

“I figure you’d like to see them before they were sold.” The old man grinned. He knew Kaidus was a ravenous reader. A few books wouldn’t last the boy a couple of days, and it didn’t hurt his business by lending the books to the boy.

“Thank you.” Kaidus thanked the kind old man as he proceeded to pick at the new books.

“… Is there something on my face?” Kaidus asked, spotting the old man staring at him with a smile.

“Hahahaha.” The old man laughed heartily. “With everything that’s happened, I was reminded of the days when you were just a toddler, barely up to my knees yet already bickering with me about books. Who knew that little tyke would grow up to be a mage?” He grinned a devilish grin, delighted and proud of Kaidus.

 

…

 

Wearing a small cloak with a hood to hide himself, Kaidus made his way through the streets and took to the alleys when he could to avoid people. Making his rounds to three different bookstores, by the time he was done it was already past noon. As he made his way home, in his hands were a stack of four books.

‘Worked better than I thought.’ He praised the cloak.

With the books that he had borrowed safely returned and newly purchased books to occupy him, he was ready to return to the academy. All that was left, was to pack everything.

 

…

 

In the carriage bound for the academy, Kaidus sat silently reading.

There were three bags of luggage beside him filled with pen, papers, vials of ink, and four sets of clothes, Lord Ravon’s sponsorship letter, a lunch Adalina had packed, and his notes from the previous year. He had left the Jae in the care of Troyle and Adalina, and only brought the four green fers Troyle allotted him the previous night.

When she saw his bags being loaded onto the carriage, Anise had cried as she did the year before. With careful persuasion and another promise, he was able to calm her down.

He also made a brief detour to the Ravon Estate to pay his respects to Lord Ravon first, before making his way to the academy. Not staying long, he only had a quick lunch with the lord before leaving.

…

“We are here, young master.” The carriage driver called out as they passed the long stretch of farmland and arrive at the academy’s gate. It was nearly evening.

“Those who needs help carrying their luggage, please let us know!” A master overseeing the transition shouted out. “You will be given a paper depending on your order of arrival. Head to admissions when it is your turn. Otherwise, head to the student area in the Westside of the academy to reclaim or sign up for boarding!” Infusing mana into his voice, the master’s directions could be heard all around them.

Besides Kaidus himself, there were many other carriages dropping off students.

In the crowd of teenagers and young adults wearing fine clothing, he stuck out like a wild danach in a garden of finely cultivated tasiens. Many familiar faces recognized him and paid no mind, while many new faces were staring at him curiously.

Kaidus paid no attention to the inquisitive stares and made his way to the gate.

“Hello Master Zaele.” Kaidus greeted the master.

“Ah, Kaidus, Welcome back. Please go on ahead.” The master replied. Seeing the floating luggage behind the boy, there was no need to help.

He was handed a small piece of paper as he approached the gate. Although the paper was blank, he could sense minute traces of mana within. Without a second thought about the paper, Kaidus passed through the gate, officially entering the academy.

“GRARAAAAR!” Zeeke popped out from the shed and ran toward him as he entered.

“Hello Zeeke!” Kaidus greeted cheerfully as the spirit came up to him. “I’ve got something for you.” Feeling in one of the three bags he packed, he pulled out a germinating derilt seed. The seed was about the size of his thumb, and he had saved it after eating a derilt fruit.

“GAR!!” Zeeke yelped happily at the sight of the seed. Gently taking the seed in its mouth, Zeeke wisped back into its shack before coming back out again. “Garrr! Garar!” the spirit cried happily.

“Exactly what are you doing with them?” Kaidus asked the spirit.

“Rra! Raaaara!” It shook its head, unwilling to tell him as it pranced around.

“Well then, I’ll come by again sometime.” Taking his leave, he made his way to the boarding area.

Without a single change to his living arrangements, he retained the same lavish room he had from the year before.

In the middle of snacking on the lunch Adalina prepared for him—after unpacking and settling in, the blank piece of paper started glowing a reddish glow and emitted a warm heat. It was his turn for admissions.

 

—

 

Three people were standing around the carriage service, watching as the throngs of highborn students entered the academy. They had tracked Kaidus all the way here from his house in the 3^rd ward.

“He is a student of Zorin academy…” A man spoke.

“This only helps to solidify our assumptions and to bolster the truth about the rumors.” Another replied.

“We need to let the boss know. We need to see how we should proceed from here on out.” A third voice chimed in. This time, a woman.

“Leiza, how many of us are currently free to operate?” The first man asked.

“Six of us at the moment. The others are in their respective wards gathering information.” The woman replied.

“Six huh? Zorin Academy has two gates. We need sentries watching each of them. Form two teams from our available agents and make sure to not lose the target if he comes out.” The man instructed. “I will contact the boss.” The man went inside the building to hire a carriage.

 

…

 

Middle of the night, in the woods away from Ferrent.

“What is it, Raleun?” A voice echoed through a dimly glowing ring on the man’s finger.

“Master Zavon. I have news about the target.” He replied back to the ring.

“Speak.”

“The target’s identity is a boy named Kaidus Paltos. He is currently living with his parents and a younger sister. Also, we have just found out that he is attending Zorin Academy. How do you wish to proceed from here?” Raleun questioned.

“… If he is attending Zorin and if the stories are true, he might already be under Nylen’s influence. It might already be too late to bring him to our side…” Zavon whispered back, contemplating the situation.

“Yes. That is quite possible.”

“What about his abilities? Have you confirmed them?”

“No master, that is still unknown to us. The boy has kept himself hidden ever since the trial. There has been no chance to witness his abilities.” Raleun replied.

… Complete silence.

“… If there is no chance, then make them.” Zavon finally spoke through the ring.

“Master?” Raleun was puzzled.

“The old master said if we cannot get the mage to join us, then we are to dispose of him. Use everything and everyone at your disposal. If by any chance the boy could be made to join our cause, try to persuade him. If not, deal with him quickly and get out of there before Nylen picks up your trail.” Zavon ordered. “The old master views the man like a demonic specter. Do not get caught. I would hate to prove him right.” Zavon added.

“Yes Master.” Raleun replied.

He waited and made sure his master was finished talking before cutting the connection. The ring’s dim light vanished as he stopped infusing mana into it, becoming a normal ring again.

 

—

 

Kaidus brought his bowl of oshun stew back to the table where the others were waiting for him. It has been two days since the new term started, and their little group was already falling into the usual pattern after everyone had settled in.

“There are a lot of new faces staring at you Kaidus.” Mirat spoke as Kaidus got to the table.

“I would look too, if I saw a random child walking around the academy grounds.” Jorva grinned. “I doubt any of them suspects Kaidus to be an advanced student.”

“Don’t mind them.” Kaidus replied to Mirat. “And I don’t need them to suspect anything. I just want to do what I’m here for, and leave when I’m done.” He spoke as he put a spoonful of stew into his mouth.

“Oh right. You even cut off a class this term for that reason, didn’t you?” Mirat asked.

As Mirat stated, his new classes as a second year were:
Strategic Magic Engagements and Maneuvers, or SMEM for short. An advance class that utilizes magic for combat against enemies of superior numbers, or abilities. It was a debate and theory class about specific situations instead of hands on combat like the previous Advance Group Combat class.

His second class was Advance Arkane studies—since he never finished Intermediate Arkane Studies—in the hopes of learning something new about the progression of magic over the centuries.

He had decided to not choose a 3^rd class, using that extra time in the library to further his investigations. He was also glad to not have been dragged into the council again.

“Yea.” Kaidus replied.

“You sure that’s a good idea? Looking for mythical creatures and spending your time in the books?” Jorva questioned.

“I could always use some help looking through those rumors and stories.” He replied with a wide grin.

They knew he was looking for information about elder drakalls. What they didn’t know, was what the information would be used for. They all thought it was just his childish fancy, or some research he was doing as a hobby. There was no need to tell them his true motivations, his goals.

“Uuu… I’m not one for reading…” Jorva muttered.

…

 “You must be Kaidus.” A young man cheerfully interrupted them as they were talking.

The five stopped and turned to look at the intruder. Mirat, Lisin, Jorva, and Prim held their tongues, as the words were directed at Kaidus.

“I am.” Kaidus replied, looking at the older boy.

Short dark blue hair, a pointed feminine chin, a slender build, dark cunning eyes, and very familiar looking. “Larant? Son of Lord Alzin Varath?” He queried.

“Wait? Larant!? What are you doing here?!” Lisin exclaimed.

“Indeed, I am Larant. Good to see you too Lisin.” The standing young man made a curt nod, then grinned brightly like his father. “May I join you all for lunch?” He asked.

“Of course.” Kaidus answered, returning an amicable smile back.

Larant Varath took a seat next to him. The table was an elongated table with wooden seats on both sides, and the four boys took one side while Prim and Lisin took the other. The seating arrangements were: Larant, Kaidus, Jorva, and then Mirat.

“How do you guys know each other?” Prim inquired, after everyone had introduced themselves.

“Although I haven’t seen her for four years, Lisin and I are old acquaintances. But this is my first-time meeting Kaidus.” Larant answered with the same grin on his face.

The other four had puzzled looks at that explanation.

“My father works for Lord Varath. He used to teach Larant the sword before Larant awoke to his magic two years ago.” Kaidus supplemented.

“Your father spoke about me?” Larant inquired.

“He did. He said you were a bright student, one with talent for the sword. He felt bad not being able to teach you everything.” Kaidus replied.

“I see… I should ask Troyle for lessons again after I finish here.” Larant had a considerate look on his face. “… You know, my father has also told me a lot about you.” His considerate face changed back into a grin.  “He said you helped him greatly over the Rjus, and that you have immense power for your age. He even warned me that if I ever got on your bad side, it would probably mean the end of the Varath line.” Larant, Kaidus, and Mirat laughed at the joke.

Prim, Jorva, and Lisin tensed up. They weren’t laughing.

“L-Larant, what classes are you taking?” Lisin asked, trying to dismiss the memories and change the subject.

“Let’s see… Beginners Magic Artificing, Supplementation of Mana, and Beginners Arkane Studies.” Larant answered. “My mana capacity isn’t great, so I want to be an artificer to create magical items that would help those even without magic. This year is just the preliminary, but I plan to get into summoning and get a metal elemental spirit to help with my goals.” He explained optimistically.

“Wow… that is quite the goal.” Jorva spoke, amazement in his voice.

“What about you all?” Larant asked.

As the six talk about their classes and goals, lunch ended. Five of them went to their classes, while Kaidus headed for the Library.

 

—

 

“The target is moving again. Go tell Leiza.” A woman spoke to her partner.

“Alright.” A man replied, scurrying off upstairs.

They had disguised themselves as lords and ladies to not raise any suspicion within the 11^th ward. Using their resources, they even paid for two luxurious rooms at an inn—nearby the academy—as their base of operations, claiming they are there to oversee the farm work. One of them was always in the rooms resting, another staked out the gates from the inn’s diner downstairs, and another roamed the streets pretending to do their job while keeping watch.

They have been staking out the boy for almost a turn now, and they were confident they knew all his movements. Everything from: who he interacts with outside of the academy, when he usually leaves the academy to go home, where he goes in the four days, he’s home, pretty much everything he does outside.

“He’s leaving for home again.” The man spoke to Leiza.

“Right on schedule.” Leiza opened the window. With a lengthy and careful incantation, a sliver of light manifested in front of her and shot off into the distance.

 

—

 

Upon returning home, Kaidus saw a few unfamiliar faces sitting in the living room.

“Kaidush!!” Anise happily cried out, rushing over to hug him.

It was the Ryes, and he had returned home right after 2^nd class. It was not yet evening.

“Kaidus, please come here.” Adalina called.

Picking his little sister up, he made his way to where the guests were.

“Hello.” He greeted.

A man and woman sat across from Adalina. The couple look to be in their mid-20s. The woman had a face full of worry, while the man looked tired and exhausted.

One look, and he knew it was only a matter of time before situations like this came knocking on their doors.

“This is my son Kaidus, the one you were speaking of, and whom we have been waiting for.” Adalina introduced him. “Mr. and Mrs. Wazanir are from the 4^th ward. They have been here the whole day, and have something to ask of you.” Adalina spoke solemnly.

“How can I help you?” He calmly asked the couple, as he handed Anise over to Adalina.

“Are you him? Are you the child?” The woman asked anxiously.

“Please tell me what’s wrong.” Kaidus coaxed.

“W-we heard rumors… *UGH* about a child… that could heal. *Grunt* the rumors say that you can… you can perform miracles…” The husband spoke, each time grunting in pain.

Motioning for his wife, the woman unbuckled the man’s shirt and pulled out his right arm, wrapped in bandage. Unwrapping the bandages revealed a purplish arm.

There was a huge gash along the biceps, along with a smaller wound on his forearm. Both wounds were already infected and horribly festered.

“He got these eight days ago. Our lightly guarded caravan was assaulted by bandits, and Garuhn… H-he got these protecting me and our son. *Sniff* Those in the caravan did everything they could, but by the time we got him to a physician two days ago, they claim the only way to save him now is to amputate his arm *Sniff*.” The woman started weeping.

“P-please… Can you help me? I need both my arms… if I am to provide for my family…” The man pleaded.

“Please, save my husband!” The woman begged.

“Mother. Can you bring me some water, some clean bandages, and a rag?” Kaidus told Adalina. He was going to clean the wound first before doing anything else.

Adalina quickly returned with what he asked, setting a pail of water in front of him.

“Please take Anise and go upstairs.” He told his mother. Adalina promptly grabbed Anise and left them.

With a thought, the water in the wooden pail heated up to a boil before settling down again. Dipping the rag into the hot water, he carefully wiped away the pus that was coming out of the wounds.

After cleaning the wounds, he placed his hand onto the man’s arm and willed his mana into the man. The healing immediately began. The dead blood inside the arm, bacterial infections, pus, everything oozed out of the open wounds. He instructed the woman to wipe them away. Within minutes, the purple arm regained its color and the open wound was starting to bleed vibrant red blood instead of dead black blood and yellow pus. He quickly seared the wounds with magic before having the wife bandage her husband’s arm.

The woman sat by her husband, crying after she finished. “Thank you! Thank you so much!” She cried out, having seen the change in the arm.

Having bit his own shirt to keep himself from screaming at the pain in his arm, the exhausted man fell unconscious.

By the time the man woke up, Troyle was already home.

…

After dinner.

“It is already dark. Please rest here for the night.” Troyle offered, as the couple was about to leave.

“You’ve already done so much for us. We shouldn’t impose any longer.” The woman answered politely, supporting her husband.

“I would hate to see you two out in the dark, and Garuhn has yet to even recover. Stay for the night and I will call you two a carriage tomorrow.” Troyle insisted.

“Very well. We thank you for your generosity.” The husband bowed, accepting the proposal.

 

—

 

Kaidus stirred and quietly woke up in the middle of the night. He had commanded Hasen to notify him if anything out of the ordinary occurred.

Beside him slept his little sister, her tiny hands grabbing onto his left arm.

The guests were sleeping in Anise’s room for the night and she had refused their parents, opting to sleep with him instead. She slept peacefully, innocent, and oblivious of the evil of the world. He had vowed to never let anything happen to her.

Gently removing her hands, he got out of bed.

There were pests in the house.

*Swoosh* *Swoosh* *Whoosh!* A familiar sound of metal slicing through air.

Kaidus went downstairs to find Troyle in the living room, swinging his sword with his left hand. Anise was still asleep, and Adalina was busy preparing breakfast.

Troyle was smiling heartily as he moved into different stances, swinging the sword in all range of motions—testing his arm.

Troyle’s injuries were severed tendons in the shoulder along with cuts into the bones. The cause of it was a slash from behind that cut deep into his shoulder blade before making its way out the left side of his shoulder.

The wounds were stitched, and Troyle’s body had repaired itself to a usable condition after 10 years. Yet, the damages have already been done, and the shoulder was never like how it used to be.

The healing process was similar to Naran’s, and Troyle had gritted his teeth through it—refusing to scream out in pain—as if trying to show his own mental fortitude to Kaidus.

“Father. How long have you been at that?” He called out.

“You’re up early.” Troyle turned around and replied with a grin. Beads of sweat were rolling down his face. “I’ve only just started. I was going to wait until I got to Lord Varath’s place, but I never thought I would be able to use my left hand like this again. I couldn’t wait any longer.” Troyle’s grin widened.

“Please don’t overexert yourself.” Kaidus replied.

“Don’t worry. I just wanted to see if I my body can still remembers some forms, that’s all.” Troyle replied, then continued his practice as Kaidus watched.

… *swoosh* *whoosh* step, *swoosh* …

“What kind of style is that?” Kaidus asked after watching for a while.

“My fighting style?” Troyle responded, hearing Kaidus’s question.

“Yea. Last year when I was at the Ravon manor, I watched the knights training. Your movements are very different from theirs.” He quickly made an excuse.

“Have you finally taken some interest in swords?” Troyle asked him eagerly, face full of enthusiasm.

“A little… but mother says she doesn’t want me learning how to fight until I’m older.” He answered, and Troyle made a disappointed face. This was not the first time Troyle had wanted to teach him how to use a sword.

“Well, not like my little mage needs a weapon to protect himself.” Troyle replied with a smirk, recalling what happened the previous day, and what Kaidus could do. “To answer your question, my movements are different because…” Troyle started explaining.

Troyle was an ambidextrous fighter, and fought using a style called ‘The formless Blades’ style which incorporated two swords as extensions of his own arms. The style was an erratic but precise form of fighting, consisting of quick flurries of attack and quick movements, not leaving the enemy a chance to counter. Troyle said his former mercenary captain had made him learn it after finding out that Troyle was just as adept with his left hand as his right.

Although Troyle was only using one sword at the moment, thinking back to the few forms that he caught, Kaidus could picture where the two swords would complement each other—attacking in an elegant flow of blazing fast motions.

“When you’re older, I’ll teach you.” Troyle grinned at him.

“Kaidus, can you come help set the table?” Adalina called from the kitchen, having heard them talking.

“Coming!” He made his way to the kitchen and left Troyle to continue his practice.

 

—

 

Two days later.

‘They should be back soon.’ Kaidus thought to himself.

He was sitting in the living room reading one of the few books procured over the Rjus. It was nearing the afternoon, and his mother and sister should be returning soon from their morning shopping.

This was the last day of Hiso, and he would be returning to the academy soon. The new term starts on the 6^th of Guso, so he would have to leave by the 4^th to get everything ready for his classes.

Kaidus also stayed home today as he had done for the past couple of days.

Going out the day after the trial, he was accosted in the street by many people asking him about the specifics of the trial. Luckily for him, those who were not there doubted he was capable of healing magic—the rumors were there but the belief has yet to set hold. They goaded him to prove his abilities, but the situation was one where such thing was unnecessary. He had refused the taunts.

Most people in the shopping district already knew that he was attending Zorin academy for mages. It was only a matter of time until the whole of the 3^rd ward knew about him, and his peaceful days would eventually come to an end. There was no point in quickening that process by showing them he could heal people. He’s been hiding at home ever since, waiting for the new term to begin.

As if complying with his thoughts, the door soon opened and Adalina walked in. Both her hands were holding onto Anise, and there was no grocery. Adalina had a big smile on her face while Anise has her usual tired look from walking around too long.

“Kaidus, you have a guest.” Adalina spoke, smiling at him.

“??” He looked at her with a look of confusion.

“Please come in.” Adalina motioned for someone else to enter.

A young girl with sleek black hair like Adalina’s, wearing a pretty blue dress–with yellow flower patterns on the skirt–entered the house. It was Celene. Following her, the same woman he had seen with Celene at the trial also entered, carrying a basket of groceries.

“I’m sorry to have burdened you, and welcome to our humble home.” Adalina turned to thank the woman.

“Please, no need to thank me. It was the least I could do.” The woman politely replied.

“Welcome.” Kaidus greeted, having made his way to the door.

“We’re home Anise, time to get down.” Adalina spoke as she set a tired Anise onto the ground. “Please show Mrs. Valnur and Miss Celene to the living room.” Adalina instructed Kaidus as she took the basket off of the woman’s hand. “We seldom get visitors, please make yourselves at home.” Adalina added as she moved to put the basket away in the kitchen.

“Kai-*yawn* …” Anise yawned as she tried to call his name.

“Need a nap in your room?” He questioned his sister, gently patting her head.

“No… Anish don-*yawn* wan to…” She replied, rubbing her eyes in an attempt to get rid of her drowsiness.

“Alright.” He conceded, then turned to the guests. “Thank you for helping my mother. Please, this way.” He thanked the woman and motioned for them both to follow him to the living room.

The Paltos house was not so big that guests would have to be shown their way about. The door outside opens directly into the living room that took up little more than a quarter of the first floor. His actions were nothing more than keeping with propriety.

“Please have a seat.” He showed the woman and Celene to the few chairs that circled a low table.

The living room itself had little furnishing. There were four wooden chairs for the four of them, a low rise table, an earthen vase—with dried flowers—sat on the table, a small shelf in the corner of the room by the window where Kaidus kept a few of the books he’d been reading along with various other small trinkets that belonged to the family. By the shelf, there was a small desk with Adalina’s sewing kit, and Anise’s wooden toys in a small crate under the desk. There were no pictures along the walls, nor were there any luxurious decorations. It was a simple room.

The whole time, the woman was watching Kaidus.

“Is there something wrong?” He asked, as he sat down.

“No. Everything is fine.” She answered, giving him a smile as she and Celene also took their own seats.

“Sorry about the other day. Although it is late, I am Kaidus Paltos. I apologize for dragging your family into my problems.” He quickly introduced himself along with an apology.

“Nice to meet you again Kaidus. I am Mayley Valnur, wife of Joral Valnur, and you’ve met my daughter Celene.” She answered back with her own introduction. Celene sat quietly beside her.

“Gai…dush…” Anise called him as she drowsily wobbled over to where he was sitting. She reached him then slumped onto his legs, as sleep started taking hold of her.

“See? You need a nap.” He told her again.

“No…I-*yawn*…” She weakly tried to counter his statement, but failed to fight back the drowsiness.

“I’m sorry, I must see my sister to bed. My mother will be with you shortly.” He easily picked up Anise, and started for the stairs.

…

Mayley recalled the events of the 34^th, and her reasons for being here.

In the joy of her son’s recovery, she had failed to personally thank the boy for his kindness. Seeing the quick recovery and change in her son, she had spent all of the previous day searching for the boy. This morning—along with Celene, was also spent with three maids combing the streets of the market district and asking for the boy and his family. Luckily, most people knew who she was talking about, and it was a lucky coincidence to have found the boy’s mother in the onslaught of morning shoppers.

Watching the young boy carrying his little sister with ease, it was quite the sight for Mayley. She could see his love and care for the younger girl in his actions and the few words the two had exchanged. The stoic and cold child who easily broke a man’s arm was nowhere. All she could see was the compassionate child who saved her son and daughter.

Adalina quickly came out of the kitchen with four cups and a pitcher of water, along with a plate of thinly sliced dronnon jerky.

“Please help yourselves.” Adalina spoke as she sat the plate of snack onto the table and filled the cups with water.

“Thank you again for allowing this untimely visit.” Mayley gave a word of thanks. They had already talked and gotten to know each other on their way back to the Paltos house.

“No problem at all. As I mentioned earlier, we seldom get any visitors.” Adalina responded with a smile. “You said both Joral and yourself grew up in Ferrent, were you two not born here?” Adalina continued their chat from their walk home.

As the two continued their conversation, Kaidus returned.

“She looked really tired, is she sleeping now?” Adalina asked as Kaidus sat down with them.

“She is.” He answered.

It was not a rare thing for Anise to fall asleep after tiring herself out walking around with Adalina.

“You remember Mrs. Valnur and her daughter Celene from the trial. They’ve come to talk to you.” Adalina explained.

“I see.” Kaidus replied. “How may I help you?” He asked Mayley. 

“Forgive me for the delay, but Joral and myself wanted to thank you for what you have done.” Mayley spoke and bowed in gratitude. “Joral wanted to be here, but his work has kept him. He wanted to entrust you with this.” Mayley reached into a side of her dress and pulled out a dazzling gem. The gem was small enough to fit into the palm of Mayley’s hands, but unlike normal gems, this one was flashing a violet light periodically.

A Jae.
Gemstones containing fragments of spirits within, they were extremely expensive with the lowest grades valued at around 5000 erns, while the highest grades were up in the hundreds of thousands. The grades, being determined by the size of the gem, their luster, clarity, and type of spirit fragment inside.

‘A Phraestone…’ Kaidus thought to himself, remembering how they are created.

Mages at the pinnacle of magic, greedy for even more power enslaved the helpless Phraes, forcing them to rip apart and bind their elemental cousin’s essences into these gemstones. Everything for the sake power, at the cost of the elemental’s life.

Jaes were designed as single-use elemental attacks, or to amplify a mage’s spell of the same element exponentially. Coincidentally, the grades also correlated directly to the strength of the gem when used for magic. Higher quality gems exuded more light and their gems were clearer and more transparent.

Yet he doubted the world right now had such knowledge of their creation and use. Even the Phraes themselves were so scarce now that he had yet to see one ever since being reborn, unlike before where the friendly spirits coexisted with the races throughout the seven continents. All the books he had come across had detailed only how they might be used in ancient days—none having anything to do with magic, and many theories about how they might have been made. The books only mentioned that all the Jaes in the world were found, nothing about being created. Jaes themselves were later circulated into the world’s economy amongst the rich upper class because of how beautiful they are.

The Jae Mayley pulled out was of a lower grade, but would still probably be around 20000erns if sold. It was beautiful, and had the violet hue of one containing a lightning spirit fragment. Little sparks of bluish-purple lightning flashed every now and then within the stone.

“We would like you to have this. Although this could never cover the life of our two children, it is the only thing we have of any value.” Mayley got off her seat and came up to presented the gem to him.

“I apologize, but I cannot accept… I did not help because I desired a reward.” Kaidus spoke, unwilling to accept the small fortune that was offered. Not because he knew of their origin, but because anyone would have helped in that situation if they could.

“It is not a reward. It is a gift, freely given.” Mayley countered. “This has been in Joral’s family for four generations. It was meant to be used in emergencies when the family business first began, but there has never been any need for it to be sold. The Valnur house is quite well off now so such insurance has become unnecessary. It is something of a family heirloom, and the only thing that holds any sentimental value to Joral. He wishes for you to have it.” Mayley clarified.

“More so now, I cannot accept such a precious thing.” He was not about to deprive the family of something so precious.

“It is because it holds such value, that we are giving it to you. What you did for our family, is beyond what this little gem could replace. Please take it.” Mayley pleaded.

“… Very well. Thank you, for your generosity.” Kaidus replied as he reluctantly brought forth his hand to accept the gift. He could see in her eyes that Mayley would not take no for an answer.

“Thank you.” Mayley happily echoed, returning to her seat.

With that over with, Mayley questioned Kaidus about various things as Adalina supplemented his short and precise answers. Celene quietly spectated when she was not the one being questioned, interjecting here and there to reprimand her mother when Mayley starts talking about embarrassing things concerning her.

“How about joining us for lunch?” Adalina asked as noon came around.

“If it is not too much trouble, we would love to.” Mayley replied.

“None at all. Please relax as I prepare us lunch.” Adalina got up to go cook.

“I do enjoy cooking every once in a while. Allow me to assist you.” A candid smile on her face, Mayley also got up to go help.

 

…

 

 “Have you been well?” Kaidus spoke, breaking the silence. With Mayley and Adalina cooking, and Anise asleep, it was only the two of them in the living room.

“Y-Yes.” Celene answered, she was getting nervous.

After the trial, after spilling the truth, she abruptly stopped dreaming about him. As if her fear and anxiety was the reason behind it all, the dreams had vanished when the truth came out. She thought she had grown stronger after the ordeal, but seeing him sitting casually across from her, her head was racing and nothing comprehensible was coming to mind.

“Did you see the Lippars migration around ten days ago?” Kaidus asked, trying to make conversation.

“N-no…” Celene answered, disappointment in her voice. The migration had occurred shortly after her incident, and she was too scared to either go outside or look outside.

“Oh. Well, you can always see them when they leave.” Kaidus spoke cheerily, attempting to cheer her up.

“Uhn. Yea…” Celene replied. She wanted to talk to him about the dreams, but she was afraid of what he might think. There were so many things on her mind, she wanted to just talk with him, she wanted to be friends, to ask him questions about himself, any questions, but the words were not coming out.

Kaidus made small talk asking about the Dryva district school, her favorite colors, food she likes, friends, her family, and various things that elaborated on the subjects they had talked with Mayley earlier about.

With Celene not talking much, the majority of the conversation was him awkwardly talking as she listened. Kaidus kept at it, abiding by the rules of ‘it’s a host’s job to entertain his guests’, until Adalina and Mayley called them for lunch.

 

—

 

-In a different corner of the world-

“Zavon… why have you called for an assembly with such haste?” An old man asked the seven hooded men in front of him.

One of the figures took a step forward. “Master. My agents in Ferrent relayed to m-”

“You sent agents into Ferrent? After I called to cease the activities around there?” The old man interrupted. He gazed coldly at the man call Zavon.

“Apologies master. I only sent them in after we lost the familiar to keep watch and relay information. They are not to do anything that would rouse the suspicion of anyone even if it costs them their lives.” Zavon quickly tried to placate his master’s growing irritation.

“You are naive… just hope your agents do not get caught alive, or we may have trouble on our hands.” The old man spoke solemnly, then motioned for the man to continue his report.

“My agents spoke of a new mage, capable of healing magic. Although inconclusive, this particular mage is believed to be able to do more than heal himself. From asking around, my agents believe that this mage can possibly share his gifts with others.” Zavon ended his report. His eyes not wavering, stared right back at his master. The old man’s face lit up and Zavon could see the plans being constructed in that ever calculating mind of his. It was the reaction he wanted.

“… That is quite the news. How many agents do you have stationed in Ferrent?” The old man asked Zavon.

“I have eighteen altogether. Two in each of Ferrent’s lower wards.” Zavon replied.

“Have them confirm the mage’s identity and abilities. If he truly knows healing magic, see if they can bring him to our cause. If not, dispose of him.” The old man commanded. He knew what powerful assets mages with recovery abilities can be. Nylen made sure he knew that.

“Yes master.” Zavon answered as he stepped back in line with the other figures.

The man’s scream resounded throughout the hall.
Having fallen to his knees, the man’s right arm had been torn out of his shoulder and was now sagging to his side.

Those in the front had heard, as the muscles tore and snapped, and the boy who had witnessed a similar display not long ago hid his eyes, crying at the memories.

“KYAAAAAH!!!” Kalwun Heldeins wife screamed out at her husband’s dangling arm.

Everyone else was too shocked to make a sound. They just saw the boy wrench a grown man’s arm out of its socket.

The judges cringed at the dastardly sight. Before they could even stop him, the unassuming child had already stepped forth toward the infuriating man and dislocated the man’s arm from his shoulder.

The child was now standing in front of the man, watching calmly as the man screamed in pain.

The child reached out his left hand, and the man recoiled back in fear. Placing a hand onto the man’s shoulder, within seconds, the arm jerked itself back into place.

The boy stepped back.

The man’s screams had stopped. His eyes were filled with terror, but there was also a hint of resignation.

The man slowly raised his arm that had been dislocated. He raised it sideways, then swung it back and forth. He clenched his fist and he flexed his arm to make sure nothing was out of place.

His arm was back to normal. He was healed. Phantom pain lingered where he knew his shoulder should have been dislocated.

“Does that constitute as proof?” The boy asked the man in front of him.

… The room was silently watching, waiting for the answer.

“Y-yes…” Kalwun Heldeins finally replied. His head drooped in shame, staring at the floor.

Seeing the young girl come in to testify, hearing both stories, he knew his son was in the wrong. But as a father, he could not just back down and avert his eyes from his son’s pain. He fought against the verdict to bring retribution against this child in front of him, but in the end, everything was as the child said. There was nothing left to refute in the child’s story. The boy truly could use healing magic on other people: He himself was proof. The excruciating pain had suddenly vanished, and his arm healed completely. It was his complete and utter defeat.

He remembered the incessant begging for them not to look for the attacker.

He recalled the choices he’d made.

If he did not push to bring this issue to a public trial, his son would have been safe from the disgrace of attacking a child, and the matter of Joral’s son would still be in the dark for many people.

Kalwun stalked over to where his wife and the other parents were sitting, regretting his actions.

“This trial is over! Go home!” The head judge called out.

There was nothing else they could do. The child had attacked someone in front of them, but he had also healed the victim, proving himself in the process. They too realized that doing so was about the only thing that could have ended this trial.

The judges slowly made their way through the audience, and out of the room. The audience followed after, chattering about the outcome of the trial.

 

—

 

Seeing the man’s eyes, Kaidus recognized the look. It reminded him of the ones Troyle used to have: full of fear and uncertainty.

The man wanted proof, and he had given him indisputable proof. The only thing now, was to face his parents and see the fear in them.

Kaidus turned toward his family.

Instead of fright, Troyle was grinning at him. Adalina had on her soft smile, eyes red from crying. Anise stared back at him quizzically, confused about everything that had just happened. Kaidus walked over to them.

“Good show.” Troyle told him happily. “You should have broken his legs too, and his neck while you were at it.” Troyle joked quietly so that only they could hear. A wide grin on his face.

The swarm of emotions earlier had subsided. Being a body guard, Troyle also caught the man’s movement towards Kaidus earlier. Before he could move to intercept, the man had already been immobilized. His anger was at its boiling point, but seeing what Kaidus had done, the demonstration mollified his hatred towards the man.

“No, he shouldn’t!” Adalina rebuked, “Kaidus… did you really have to do such a thing?” she asked him.
She was shocked at the display, but it was her beloved son. There was no way she would not love him even if he does turn out to be a demon. She had already come to terms with such thing’s years ago. While many things had shocked her today, she always knew that Kaidus was more than he lets on. Much more. Ever since he was born, there was something peculiar about the boy, something special. The feeling only grew stronger as the boy grew up.

“You saw the man. He wasn’t about to give up unless something drastic happened.” Troyle replied in Kaidus’s defense, “But healing magic? You were always an odd child beyond our expectations, but this… this is something else altogether!” Troyle exclaimed with the grin still on his face. “Since when have you been able to?” Troyle inquired.

“I’ve only just started dabbling with it a couple turns ago.” Kaidus partially lied.

He always knew healing magic, but it wasn’t until he was used to his body a couple years ago, that he began experimenting with it.

The restrictions of using magic to heal others is that: a body cannot withstand foreign mana, and will always reject it. But such rules did seem not apply to him.

Bending the magic to his will, his mana coursed through the body and picked out any forms of irregularity within. Muscle aches, bruises, pains, broken bones, tissues, cuts, etc… anything that was out of place in a healthy state of the body. By infusing his mana into such damages, his mana is able to perfectly conform to the body, becoming a part of the person—repairing the damages.

By having his mana becoming a part of the body, it eliminates the body’s rejection. Although it costs him an excessive amount of mana, along with his complete concentration.

Yet, that was not the extent of his abilities. Through many tests and experiments on himself, he had developed something even more frightening. An ability that he never even dreamt of possible in his past life. Something that would rewrite the known laws of ‘Healing Magic’.

“Sorry mother. I did not mean to scare you.” He replied to Adalina.

Apologizing for what he did, in turn, he got a stern scolding for being reckless in regards to what he did to himself, and to Mr. Heldeins.

As the Paltos waited for the room to clear before leaving, a man approached them with a girl in tow.

 

—

 

Joral Valnur had quietly watched as everything unfolded, and he could not believe what transpired in front of his eyes. Upon seeing the small child, he had his doubts, but now it was like stepping into another realm. One that defied logic.

For such a small child to easily perform such an act of violence without batting an eye. To have smashed his own hand and reform it without as much as a cry of pain. The unanswered mystery in his daughter’s story was now clear. This young boy, had truly saved and healed her.

Joral watched in shock as the boy dislocated the detestable Kalwun Heldein’s arm out of his own shoulder, then heal it without uttering a single word of apology.

‘Could it be possible?’ He thought to himself. Without waiting for the family to leave, he took his daughter and approached the family. The sliver of hope in him overcoming the terror of what he just witnessed.

“Please pardon my intrusion.” He spoke. The family turned to look at him. “I am Joral Valnur. I wish to thank you for what your son has done for my daughter.” Joral made a bow of gratitude as he brought forth his daughter. Celene also gave her thanks.

“I am Troyle Paltos and this is my wife Adalina. This is our son Kaidus, and daughter Anise. Please think nothing of it. Anyone would have helped in that situation.” The man who introduced himself as ‘Troyle’ replied back. “We give you our thanks for coming to our son’s defense.” Troyle gave a bow in return.

Joral was surprised. The family did not look particularly wealthy, but the man held himself with dignity.

Looking at the young boy who was staring back at him with deep dark eyes, Joral got down on his knees.

“I thank you from the bottom of my heart for what you have done. You have brought justice to me and my family.” He bowed graciously to the boy, “I know that this is selfish of me, but I wish to beg for a favor.” He added, lowering his head even further.

The few remaining spectators who were leaving stopped in their tracks. The families of the other boys who were also waiting to leave, turned to watch the shameless groveling.

“What is it?” The boy replied, his voice as calm as ever.

“My son… He has been left crippled, unable to do anything for himself. I hear his screams at night. Even though he denies it, it breaks my heart to hear him begging for death… I beseech you, young healer. Please… *sob*” Joral started to cry. “W-With your magic, *sob* please, save my son Naran. *sob* H-He has done no wrong… I beg of you, please save him.” Tears streamed down his face.

 

—

The man in front of him was crying as he begged. Celene was also crying, along with the woman who was undoubtedly her mother.

Kaidus turned to look at the silent broken young man who was suffering the most and the older boy met his eyes for a single instant, before looking away.

He was a skinny young man. His cheeks were sunken, his eyes looked as if they have forsaken the world and was now awaiting the sweet release of everlasting sleep. A tear rolled down his depressed cheek before the young man turned away to hide his sadness.
Kaidus lowered his gaze to the young man’s arms. They looked as if they had been deformed and were dangling above the shoulders of the two men who were supporting him. Broken and unsightly, the young man’s legs were wrapped in a blanket, undoubtedly to hide the damages to them. Without a seat, the two men held onto the young man.

There was nothing else to be done. Kaidus stepped forth toward the cripple. The two men saw and they lowered the broken boy to his level.

“I am sorry for your pain. This will hurt a bit, but please bear with it.” He spoke softly to the older boy. His voice infused with mana, calming the boy.

The young man turned his resigned face to look at Kaidus. Seeing him up close, Kaidus could see there were scars on the boy’s face.

Kaidus brought forth his left hand and placed it on the young man’s chest. Without hesitation, he poured mana into the young man. Like a part of him, the mana courses through the body, detecting anything and everything that was wrong.

The arms were broken all the way from the elbow to the hands, and tiny bits of shattered bones had lodged themselves in the muscles.
There were twelve broken ribs that had mended, but four of them did not set properly.
The femur was broken in two places. In the middle and where it connected to the tibia. The knee caps had also been shattered, and the tibia was in pieces. Like the arms, tiny shards of bones were also embedded within the muscles.

The bones were healing, but had healed incorrectly. At this rate, the boy would never walk again. There were also various cuts that were scarring the body, presumably made by the physicians who had operated on the boy.

“Please hold onto him.” Kaidus spoke, and the two men tensed at his words.

Concentrating, Kaidus willed his mana to begin.

“GYAH!!! UGGAAAAAHH!!!!!” The young man screamed out in unbearable pain.

Destruction and Restoration.

Kaidus willed his mana to shatter the brittle bones, triggering intense pain. Without flinching at the screams, he willed his mana to begin the healing process: mending bones, fusing them back together, realigning them, and setting them properly. Within moments, all his mana in the boy’s body vanished, having completed their purpose of healing the young man.

Kaidus took a few steps back toward his family. Wiping away the tiny droplets of sweat that had formed on his face. The ordeal had taken much out of him.

This was only the third time he had healed someone, and to restore a fragmented body of this degree, there had been no margin for error. The difficulty was far from healing himself, healing a dislocated arm, or mending newly broken bones.

The precision of having to break the bones before he could heal it was the most trying part of the process. A single slip up while smashing the bones, and his mana would have crushed the body—like crumpling a piece of paper—killing the boy.

‘I need more practice…’ He thought to himself, not because of what could have happened, but because of the exhaustion it brought forth.

 

—

 

The pain suddenly vanished. Naran could feel that his body had undergone a sweeping change.

Forcing his arms and legs to move, he felt strength in them both. The pain that always assaulted him whenever he tried to do so, was gone.

“Let me go!” He weakly cried out.

As the two men who supported him both withdrew their hands, they slowly placed him on the floor.

“Naran!” His father called out, coming to his side.

“STOP!” He shouted against his father’s help. He had been crippled long enough. He was going to use his own strength to ascertain what had just happened, and to see if this was indeed real, or just a cruel dream.

Naran put his arms on the ground and tried to push himself up. The hands complied. There was no pain in them as the joints locked together, pushing himself up.

He tried standing. His legs wobbled and buckled a couple times before he was able to force himself up, but he was standing. The pain in his legs were also gone.

He tried to take a step forward and fell back down to the ground.

In his despair, he had been wishing for death to escape the nightmare of being a burden on his family.

Ever since the incident, he had felt that his life was not worth living. As each day passed in the constant care of those he loves, unable to do anything for himself, he fell into self-loathing. Wishing to die, he had started starving himself ever since the beginning of Hiso. The only thing that kept him going, was the hatred for those who had wronged him, and the pain he would cause his family if he were to have died.

Having tasted the sweet sensation of being able to move his limbs again, he attempted to walk toward the young boy who had given him another chance at life.
His weakened body gave out.

In the pitiful position, Naran cried gratefully toward the young boy.

 

—

 

Kaidus watched as the older boy was picked up again by the two men. This time, taking his own steps forward while being supported.

“Thank you! *sob* Thank you!” The older boy cried. The scars on his face had also been healed, along with those on his body.

The boy’s mother and father were both crying tears of happiness.

“Please, that is enough. I wish you complete recovery, and good health.” Kaidus replied.

Looking around, many people were still in the trial hall. They had been quietly watching the event. In his concentration, he had forgotten about all of them.

Seeing that no one was leaving, there was no point in waiting anymore. “Let’s go home?” He asked Troyle and Adalina.

“Yes.” Adalina and Troyle both replied. They were both smiling at what he had done.

The Paltos family headed toward the door with Troyle carrying Anise.

“WAIT!” A man called out. Looking back, it was Kalwun Heldeins.

“Y-you! Why?! Why our sons?! You could have done the same thing and healed them!” The man shouted at Kaidus.

“They are undeserving!” Kaidus replied, his voice filled with anger as he glared at the man. The memories of Naran’s injuries fresh on his mind. He walked away without looking back, or at those around him. Troyle and Adalina strolled after.

…

 

As they walked home through the streets of the 3^rd ward, there were more stares than usual. Faces filled with wonder, fear, astonishment, hate, jealousy, admiration, all different sorts of emotions, watching them as they passed by. The most unusual of all, were the proud faces of the shop owners as they passed through the shopping district. It seems the news of the trial had traveled quickly within the market district.

“Kaidus.” Troyle spoke as they got home. “…would it be too much to ask for you to heal my left shoulder?” Troyle asked jokingly, trying not to overburden his son.

“Something’s wrong with your shoulder?” Kaidus asked, it was the first time he’d heard of it.

“An old injury. Way before you were born. I used to be quite the mercenary.” Troyle grinned proudly.

He had never really seen Troyle fight except during the tournament a couple years ago. Even then, there didn’t seem to be anything wrong with his father. Although it did appear that Troyle favored his right arm more than his left, he had assumed it was a preference in Troyle’s fighting style.

Other than that, he already knew that Troyle used to be a Mercenary, but left such a life after marrying Adalina. He’d heard many stories about staying with the Droxxon mercenaries from Adalina when he was still a toddler, but never about an injury.

“Don’t lie. You always came back bleeding and half dead. I had to patch you up every time.” Adalina replied, refuting Troyle’s boast.

“Come on now, I’m already feeling useless after all that’s happened today. At least let me praise myself a little in front of my son.” Troyle scowled jovially.

Adalina laughed as she carried Anise—who had fallen asleep on their way home—up to bed.

“If you would like.” Kaidus replied, a grin on his face.

 

—

 

Riding back home were: Alzin Varath, his wife Reanne, and their two daughters Jillian and Sylvia.

“… I wonder who that young girl was.” Lord Varath spoke his mind.

“I’m not sure myself. But it looks like she knows Kaidus.” Reanne replied.

They all saw the otherworldly spectacle and were truly enthralled, but the Varath family were thinking about other priorities.

“How old are you this year Jillian?” Alzin asked his daughter.

“I’ll be fourteen, father.” The girl replied.

“Guh! Already?” He joked.

“What does that mean?!” The girl retorted, her face pouting at her father’s response.

“I guess we’ll have to leave this to Sylvia.” Lord Varath replied, grinning.

“It looks like you may have a rival, Sylvia. Work hard.” Lord Varath told his youngest daughter.

“Y-Yes, father!” Sylvia replied, her voice was full of spirit. The meek little girl at the beginning of the Rjus was barely recognizable. In her place was a determined girl, giving it her all to attain what she wants.

 

—

 

“GAHAHAHAH! Incredible! He’s even able to use healing magic!” An old man without his arm laughed cheerfully in the carriage that was taking him and two of his companions back to the Academy.

“Headmaster… is it safe to allow the child to do as he please? Shouldn’t we monitor the boy?” One of the masters spoke.

“Zaele, the boy’s been with us in the academy for a whole term. He took my arm, stopped three intermediate spells from you all without so much as revealing his true strength, and you’re asking me this now?” Nylen tilted his head into a quirky stare of curiosity.

“I understand that Headmaster, but while he is in the academy, he is within our sights. Outside of the academy, I fear many more of these situations may arise.” Zaele countered, explaining himself.

The four of them: Headmaster Nylen, Master Zaele, Master Hamin, and Master Nion had all wanted to come to watch the trial, but Master Hamin was left with the charge of the academy. Zaele got the information about the trial from his friends at the Mystiks guild, and after disclosing it to the headmaster, this was the result.

“Well, I don’t think there is anything to fear. You saw for yourself the true reasons why the boy took action. Even our little skirmish with the boy had been because of us provoking him.” Headmaster Nylen threw in his thoughts about the boy. “And do you two really think a monitor will be able to stop him?” Nylen asked the two sitting on the opposite side of the carriage.

“…” They did not give a reply, remembering that night and what the Headmaster had called the boy.

Along with what they just witnessed at the trial: a healing ability that far outstripped that of headmaster Nylen’s own healing magic.

There was only really one answer to that question. They knew it, and the headmaster knew it.

 

—

 

At the same time,

‘I am not mistaken.’ Thought Lord Knight Commander Ravon.

He was sitting in a carriage accompanied by his son Huin, and two of his most loyal knights. The knights did not know about the true purpose of the outing, but now they sat across from him. Speechless.

“Well?” Lord Ravon spoke to the three around him.

“… I am still trying to wrap my head around it. Was that really a child?” One of the knights spoke, not trusting what he had seen.

“That was THE child. The very one from a year ago.” Lord Ravon replied.

“Father… did you know about all this?” Huin asked, having finally glimpsed a fraction of the boy’s abilities.

“I had an inkling, but this is the first time I’ve seen the boy using healing magic. I had no idea he was hiding such a thing.” Lord Ravon replied.

When the boy had revealed that he healed a young girl, there was no doubt in his mind that it was the truth. It was too late to doubt the boy who has exceeded his every expectation. Even more shocking was when the boy had smashed his own hand, and proved himself to everyone.

In that instant, he felt every action he had taken for the boy was correct.

He was looking at something that had not walked the mortal realm for eons. A true mage, unparalleled and untethered by the laws of men. After untold centuries, a Dvitus has finally appeared.

He shuddered at the unknown destiny awaiting the child. The only thing that he can be sure of, is that there would be change in the world.

 

She was running. Chased by a creature that threatened to consume her.

She ran as fast as she could, screaming for help, only to realize that there was nothing but darkness all around her.

Her legs gave out as she ran out of strength, the monster opened its jaws to swallow her whole. Suddenly, a wall of light rushed forth from behind her, destroying the monster and shattering the darkness.  

“It’s alright. Everything is okay.” A voice coiled around her. Like a warm blanket in the coldness of night, it warmed and comforted her. Protected her.

She turned around, and in front of her was a familiar boy. A gentle smile on his face with an outstretched arm.

She extended her own shaking hand to reach for his.

…

Celene woke up. It was just another dream.

Ever since the incident, she had been having nightmares. Although each nightmare was different, they always ended the same way. A bright light, and the same boy extending his hand out to her. As soon as she reach her own hand out to grab his, she would instantly wake up with tears flowing down her cheeks.

It has already been nine days since the attack, and the incident had traumatized her to the point where she refused to step outside of the house. Her parents had constantly asked her what was wrong, but she did not know how to explain it.

Her memories of the attack was real. The pain was definitely real. The four boys who attacked her were also very real. The only questions that troubled her was: how did she get out of there, and how come there was no pain or injuries. It was something she couldn’t explain. Everything pointed back to the mysterious boy who saved her.

She got up out of bed. Slipping out of her nightgown, she put on something more appropriate. She went to the washroom—to wash her face and comb her hair, before going downstairs for breakfast.

Like many of the houses in the Dryva district, the Valnur house was two stories tall. There were eleven rooms upstairs, and five rooms downstairs—where the helps live. Also located on the first floor, was a meeting room for business, the kitchen in the southern corner of the house, and a large living area for entertaining guests and relaxing. There was even a small backyard with a garden.

As Celene descended the stairs, she could hear her father talking to someone.

“…es, the same attack in the shopping district.” A man spoke.

Celene stopped in her track, and quietly listened.

“And they’ve found who did it?” Joral Valnur, her father asked.

“Yes sir.”

“… I hate to say it, but those boys deserved what they got for what they did to my son.” Joral spoke, his voice unsympathetic.

“It looks like the trial is in a couple days on the 34^th. It is to be a public trial. Should I make time for you to go?” the man asked.

“Hmm…. No. I may do something unforgivable if I see those thugs again. If someone has given them a thrashing, then I thank those who did it. I say, let them all kill each other so that better people may live in peace.” Joral replied, indifferent about the trial.

“Yes, master Joral.” The man replied.

“That aside, have you found a suitable teacher for…”

Celene’s mind drifted off from the new topic. She was trying to piece together what she just heard. ‘An attack? Surely it can’t be the same one…’ She thought to herself.

“F-father, what were you and Linus talking about?” She meekly asked her father at breakfast.

“Hm? What did you hear?” Her father looked at her quizzically.

“I… I heard you both talking e-earlier. I was just c-curious.” She answered.

“It is nothing for you to worry about.” Her father replied as he somberly looked toward the broken young man sitting on a nearby chair—being spoon fed by his mother.

“… Okay…” She obediently complied.

After Breakfast, she went to look for Linus—the head servant.

“Little Celene, what is it?” Linus asked with a smile, as she called out to him in the garden.

Linus was a greying old man—even older than her father, and has been with the Valnur house ever since her father was a boy. Though he treats Joral Valnur formally as the head of the house, he treated the children casually and played with them often. Both Celene and Naran loved him dearly.

“U-uncle Linus… I-… I have something to ask.” She wasn’t sure how she would go about this.

“What is it?” Linus lowered his right eyebrows curiously, trying to get a reaction out of the girl.

“Can… can you tell me what you and father were talking about this morning?” she requested.

“Hmm… about getting you a home teacher because you won’t go to school?” Linus asked.

“N-no. I think it was about something that… that h-happened in the shopping district.” She barely managed to answer coherently.

“Ah, that.” Celene could see Linus knew what she was talking about. “Just some ruffians attacking each other. You shouldn’t worry about it little one.” Linus told her, as he patted her head.

“P-please?” she asked, her eyes begging for the answer.

Seeing her pleading, Linus gave up.

“Hmmm… You didn’t hear it from me okay?” Linus told her, a smile on his face.

“Uhn!” She nodded.

“You remember the mean boys who attacked your brother Naran?” Linus questioned. Celene nodded. “Someone attacked them in the shopping district a while ago.” Linus added.

“D-did they find who did it?” Celene asked, trying to hide her involvement.

“They did. I was telling your father this morning that they have found the one responsible.” Linus answered, looking at her curiously. “Why are you so interested in this unsavory topic?” Linus inquired.

“Ah… um… no reason. Thanks Linus.” She lied, quickly running away before Linus started asking questions.

She did not know what happened to the boys, but she had a feeling she knew who the “attacker” was. She remembered the young boy who brought her home, and frequently appears in her dreams.

‘What did he do? What if he’s in trouble?’ She was afraid for the young boy. She had no idea how he got her out of the situation, but if such a thing did happen to the four boys, then there was no way the attacker was going to get away. She prayed for the boy to be innocent.

…

 

Two days went by, and more details of the trial came to light. Her fears came true. The perpetrator was not another group of malicious boys, but a single person: a boy. Also that the trial would be overseen by mages of the Mystiks guild.

‘That boy…a mage…’ She thought about the boy that always appeared in her dreams.

Her insides warred against each other. A part of her wishes to go to his side, to save him as he had done so for her. Another part gripped her tightly, whispering words of pain and fear into her. She remembered the single instance that it took to show her how terrible the outside world could be.

The fear won. She didn’t dare to step outside.

As the day of the trial approached, she grew anxious. Her feelings in turmoil, the fear inside her preyed on her trauma, rendering her unable to speak out about what truly happened to anyone.

She feared for the injustice that the trial would bring about. She screamed at herself to be strong, willed herself to be strong, but nothing worked.

…

She was dreaming again. This time too, she was standing in total darkness. She closed her eyes, waiting.

She waited for the inevitable monstrosity that would come after her. She waited for the light that would undoubtedly save her. For the soothing voice that would reassure her that everything was fine. For the single fleeting smile that always brought her comfort.

She stood in total darkness… nothing happened. No monster, no running, no fear, no voice, no smile, no hand that reached out for her to wake her up.

A deep sadness seeped into her. She curled up and cried in the darkness.

Waking up, Celene was tearing up as usual. Feeling around, her pillow was soaked—she had been crying even in her sleep. The emotion she felt in the dream was still there, tugging at her.

The strange dream cycled through her mind during breakfast. The truth inside of her begged to be freed—to be given voice.

“F-father.” She spoke up at the table.

“What is it?”

“Ca-can we go watch the trial today?” She asked, in a low voice.

“No.” Joral promptly refused, without another word or reason.

“But fa-”

“No! Celene, we will not go and gawk at the misfortunes of other people.” Her father quickly interrupted her.

“Why do you think I had your brother’s trial a private one? Those boys deserved whatever they got. Same goes for the one who attacked them. We do not need to watch such theatrics.” Joral Valnur spoke, dominating the atmosphere.

… The family ate in silence after the exclamation.

…

It was nearing afternoon, and the trial would be starting soon.

“Did you see him?” One of the maids asked.

“I did. I can’t believe a young boy like that did such a thing. Wish I could have stayed and watched.” Another replied, as they made their way to the kitchen.

Celene heard as the maids who went out for morning shopping came back. It was time to either choose to do something, or wallow in her own regret if something bad happens to the boy.

She mustered up her courage, and spoke to her father.

“Father… I…I want to go watch the trial.” Celene told to her father. They were both in the living area.

She had made up her mind. No matter how scared she was, she would do what needed to be done. She would go help the boy.

“Celene. No. I will not hear any more of this.” Joral spoke with irritation in his voice.

“We-we have to go. Father, please.” She begged.

“CELENE! What is wrong with you?!” Joral shouted at his daughter.

“What is happening to you two?” His wife came into the living area.

“Mayley! Maybe you can help get this idea of going to watch the trial out of her head!” Joral replied.

Her mother looked at her.
“What is going on honey?” Mayley asked softly.

“Mother… *sniff* we have to go help him.” She replied, sniffling as she wiped away the single tear that was making its way down her cheek.

“Honey…” Mayley gave her daughter a hug. “What is wrong?”

“He… *sob* He saved me. They were hurting me, and the boy- *sobbing*” She tried to explain, but tears came out instead.

Joral’s eyes widened at what his daughter just said. “Who? Who was hurting you?!” He shouted angrily. Not at his daughter, but at the unknown assailants.

In her mother’s embrace, Celene slowly calmed down. “T-the boys- *sniff* the boys who hurt big brother Naran. *sniff*” She replied, still sniffling. Mayley looked to her husband in confusion.

Anger swelled in Joral.

Mayley gently embraced her daughter. “It’s okay honey. Tell us what happened.” She gently persuaded.

Celene recounted what she could remember from that day to her parents. She recalled the pain, her dream, the child, how he had walked her home. She explained why she had been so opposed to going outside, why she was in such a state. The only thing she couldn’t explain to them: was how she and the boy got away, or why the pain disappeared.

Joral angrily got up and walked off after hearing the explanation.

“Joral?” Mayley called to her husband. She could see the anger in his eyes.

Shortly after, two large men came into the Valnur house. They brought Naran out of his room, and the Valnur family got into a carriage and left for the trial.

…

Reaching the community building, they headed toward the main hall where the trial was in progress. Approaching the door, they could hear loud chattering coming from inside.

Celene opened the door. The audience turned to look at them.

As the Valnur family entered the room, the audience could see the young man that was being carried by two men. They automatically assumed another victim had appeared. Without waiting, the audience made way for the new victim to get to the front.

Celene strolled forward, she knew what she had to do. Behind her were the two men who carried her brother. Bringing up the rear, were her parents.

“Celene?” The young boy standing at the podium turned and spoke her name. He looked exactly like the boy in her dreams. The only difference now, was that his face had a look of confusion.

“H-hello Kaidus.” She answered him. Trying to give him the same smile she always saw in her dreams. It was strange to remember his name so clearly.

…

“I apologize for the intrusion, but this is of the utmost importance.” Joral Valnur spoke, bowing toward the judges.

The judges looked at the newcomers. The young boy and this young girl that just came in, seem to know each other.

‘This is the girl.’ All the judges thought in their minds.

“And what is so important that you had to barge in on an official trial?” One of the judge calmly asked. It was all in the name of propriety. They could guess exactly what he was there for.

“It has come to my attention that, there is more to this trial than what was previously expected.” Joral spoke, trying to ease his position into the trial.

“Would this be about the harm that befell your daughter?” The same male judge asked.

“Y-Yes sir.” Joral replied. He was surprised that the trial had already progressed so far, and that they even knew about it.

“Excellent timing. We were just touching on the very topic.” The judge spoke to Joral affably.

Joral looked at the judges and then turned to look at those around him. The parents of the four boys were sitting up straight and their faces looked a shade lighter upon catching his eyes. He looked at the boy sitting with them, cowering between his parents.

Turning to the other side, he saw the other family. A man and a woman with a daughter on her lap. He looked to where Celene is standing, and spotted the one who saved her. A young boy, almost a full head shorter than his daughter. He stood at the podium calmly.

As if noticing his gaze, the boy turned and caught his eyes. The child had dark black eyes that looked to tear right through his very being. Joral quickly turned back to look back at the judges, afraid of what he would see in those eyes.

“Well then, this really changes everything.” The female judge in the middle spoke. “I would like to hear what the girl has to say before taking this case any further.” She spoke out loud.

“Agreed.” All the other judges consented.

“How old are you, and what is your name?” The judge asked.

“I- I’m 11. My name is C-Celene Valnur” Celene answered.

“Can you tell us what happened on the 20^th of Hiso, Celene Valnur?” The female judge spoke kindly, trying not to scare the girl.

“Y-yes.” Celene replied. She had come for a reason. It was too late to be scared now.

The whole hall listened in silence as the young girl recalled her horrific tale as she fell into tears.

The faces of the audience went from curious, to disbelief as they heard the young girl’s story. Their shock at the young boy’s brutal attack—against the four older boys—turned into shocks of revulsion at what the four boys had done.

After the girl’s story,

“Were you all aware of this?” The head judge asked the parents of the so called, “victims”. Staring at them closely.

The parents were speechless. The boy sitting with them had not told them everything. None of their sons who are currently recovering had even mentioned a word about attacking a young girl. For her to be the younger sister of the boy their sons maimed two turns ago, what other excuses were there that would help their case?

“I cannot believe such a tale!” A woman finally spoke—the mother of one of the boys. “Look at her! She looks perfectly healthy! They are obviously working together in this!” she cried out.

“You call my daughter a liar after what your sons did to mine?!” Joral argued, unable to stand it any longer. He had sat through enough of their fabrications during his son’s private trial.

“My son already paid for what he did to yours! Is this your ploy to get back at our sons?!” The woman angrily shouted back.

“MY SON IS NOW A CRIPPLE!” Joral roared, pointing to his son Naran.

The new information sounded through the hall. The audience watched in contempt, as the parents of the boys attempted to defend their son’s actions.

“ENOUGH!” The judge shouted. “Clearly there an issue between all of you! There will be no more of this, or none of you will be able to talk!” Sdmonishing the two who were yelling.

 “Young lady. You said the pain disappeared, and you fell asleep?” Another judge picked up the questions.

“Y-yes. When I woke up, I was all alone with K-Kaidus. He walked me home.” She answered. It was strange to call the boy by his name.

“The pain in your body was gone. Do you have any idea how?” The judge asked.

“I… I don’t know…” Celene replied to the question that’s been mystifying her.

“Hmmm… Their stories do collaborate with each other. There … magic… that … for…” The judges began talking to each other quietly. People started chattering again as the judges took their time discussing.

Troyle and Adalina sat quietly in their seats. Both of them were bewildered by what had just been exposed.

Kaidus never ceased to amaze. Firs it was his uncanny abilities from such a young age, then his unusual demeanor, and now, healing magic. They could do nothing but sit there proudly, as their son stood up for what was right—even if he had gone overboard.

“Quiet in the audience!” The head judge finally spoke. “We have come to a consensus.”

“I thought we would get another chance to defend our sons?!” Another man cried out, rising from his seat.

“I believe you have all spoken enough. Lying to the Mystiks guild is a serious offense. Be glad that we believe you all had no knowledge about the assault on this young girl.” The head judge reprimanded the man.

“We have made up our minds.” She threw her voice around the room, infused with mana. “In the case of young Kaidus, as a mage, for the crimes of brutally attacking three non-mages with magic, he is… to be exiled. For-”

Before the judge could finish, the room fell into pandemonium. The audience were speaking out against the ruling.

“NOOO!!!” A cry sheared through the noise.

Adalina broke down and cried. Troyle sat stoically, trying to comfort his wife. Inside of him, a torrent of emotion attempted to force their way out.

Everyone—except for the parents of the four kids—were questioning the severity of the punishment.

Kaidus stood silently. As calm and collected as ever. As if accepting his punishment.

“QUIET!” Another judge yelled out. “THE RULING IS NOT FINISHED!”

The disturbance quickly died out. The room held their breath and waited. Only thing that could be heard was the judge speaking, and the sound of Adalina sobbing in the background.

“As I was saying, for the brutality of attacking three non-mages with magic, he is to be exiled. BUT! For saving this young girl, for fighting back in self-defense, for being the only side to have told the truth. He is to be acquitted! We have determined that this incident is due to self-defense, and the compulsion to protect this girl!” The judge spoke, gesturing to Celene.

The hall breathed a sigh of relief. Adalina was recovering, and was now looking up at the judge.

“AFTER ALL HE’S DONE?!” The parents who were silent in the uproar were now voicing their opinions. “He just goes free!?”

“Are your sons crippled with broken arms and legs?” The judge asked, looking at the broken young man being supported by two men. “If they are not, consider yourselves very lucky. Let this be a lesson for them.” She added. “This farce of a trial has wasted enough of everyone’s time. I am officially calling this trial to a close.” The head judge ruled.

As the trial ended, chattering about the verdict began.

As soon as the chattering began and the judges were rising from their chairs, a man charged Kaidus.

 

—

 

Kalwun Heldeins was not happy with the ruling. Using the opportunity of the shift at the trial’s end, he faked getting up to leave, then rushed toward the young boy who had devastated his son and was now going to be released without any charges.

Before he could reach the boy, “MMMMM!!!!!” He sounded off angrily, as his body refused to move.

Those in the front turned to look at the oddly postured man.

“Exactly what were you trying to do? Mister Heldeins?” One of the judge had seen the movement and had quickly bound the man with an immobilization spell.

“MMMM!!!” He cried out, as guards stepped in between him and the child.

“You are deplorable.” The judge remarked as he released the binding and canceled the silencing spell.
 
“I refuse to accept this!” Kalwun exclaimed, his mouth finally able to talk. “This is obviously a ploy against our sons!” He shouted again, denying the testaments of two children.

“Your son cripples a boy, and now that he’s hurt, you want revenge?” The judge asked.

“I- This whole trial was a joke! You all arbitrary decide the ruling without giving a single thought into the fact of the matter! There is still no proof that our sons attacked the girl!”

“Is that what this is about? Proof?” The judge asked. “What about that boy? Is he not proof enough for this situation?” She pointed to Naran.

“These are two very different issues!” Kalwun shouted back angrily.

“Really? The way I see it, they are very similar. If this boy had not stepped in, who’s to say the same thing wouldn’t have happened to that girl?” The judge was nearing the end of her patience.

“But that is not the case! I refuse to take the words of a child, and call it proof to absolve the heinous crimes committed against my son!”

“Hah… Mister Heldeins… what is required for you to accept the judgement?” The judge sighed. This problem needed to be nipped in the bud before it bloomed into something horrible.

“I require proof! If he truly knows healing magic, allow everyone here to witness it!” Kalwun demanded.

“If that is all you require, I will oblige.” A childish voice came through from behind the guards. The guards moved, and Kalwun saw the boy staring back at him. A calm and apathetic face, unfazed by his demands.

Without looking away from him, the boy brought his hand forth and smashed his wrist into a corner of the podium. Bones shattered, and his hand twisted irregularly, drooping parallel to his forearm.

Those at the front gasped in shock. They were unprepared for the display.

“NOO!!” Adalina yelped, her hands quickly covered her mouth to suppress the screams.

The judges watched, astounded at the young child who: without hesitation, broke his own wrist with only so much as a grimace. Their eyes widen in surprise at the indescribable phenomenon occurring before them.

In seconds, the dangling hand twisted itself up again as the shattered bones fused back together, and the fingers started moving again. The boy made a show of a fist, and stretched each finger to show that his hand had healed.

‘A monster!’ Kalwun thought in his mind. The proof was in front of him, yet a part of him would not allow this boy to walk free. “You claim to have healed that girl! Heal someone!” He shouted, grasping at straws, hoping the child would fail in the endeavor.

“Enough of your sophisms Heldeins!” Someone from the audience called out.

“Break your own hand for the boy to heal!” Another fed up spectator yelled.

 

—

 

Kaidus was already sickened by the man in front of him, and Hasen was not helping by relentlessly asking for permission to disembowel the man.

The only thing keeping the man safe from Hasen right now, was his iron will that kept the entity in check. A single slip-up of consent, and Hasen would burst forth, severing the man in two before consuming all that he is.

“I have conceded to your demands, and now you want to change the rules?” Kaidus asked, glaring at the unreasonable man.

“It was your own claims!” The man retorted.

“Your exact words were: ‘If he truly knows healing magic, allow everyone here to witness it’. Did I not just do so?” Kaidus calmly asked, still glaring at the man.

“That does not demonstrate your ability to heal others!” The man spouted. He knew that healing magic was pretty much an impossibility, but here, he was spouting about not just healing magic, but healing others as if it was some common magic.

“Very well.” Kaidus replied. There was no other way to appease people like this. ‘What better way, then to experience it first hand?’ He thought to himself.

“GYAAAAHH!!!!!!” The man screamed out in pain.

 

“Find the boy who did this to my son. Use any means necessary.” A well-dressed man spoke solemnly to those around him. His face distorted angrily, as he looked at the sleeping young man in front of him.

“Yes sir.” Three men responded, before promptly leaving the room.

Seven broken ribs, a cracked sternum, and a punctured lung. Using his wealth, he had hired the best physicians around to treat his son—his heir. The bones had been set, and the puncture stitched up, but his son was now unconscious.

‘A child…’ he thought to himself.

The sole person who had gotten out of the ordeal unscathed, had also begged and cried as he gave his recollection of what happened. A monster in the form of a child assaulted the four of them in the alley, dealing such damage to his son and two of his son’s friends. Strangely, the boy had begged for them to not pursue the attacker, as if fearing for his life.

“I will find this ‘monster’, and make him pay for what he’s done!” The man vowed in anger, smashing a fist into the nightstand by the bed.

The similar incident last Zali—which his son took part in—was already forgotten.

 

—

 

“Kaidush! Look! Birdy!” Anise pointed to the sky.

A large flock of small birds was flying above Ferrent, flying low enough that Kaidus recognized what they were.

The annual Lippar migration was here.

Tiny exotic birds of greenish gold for females, and blackish silver for males. They were nomadic birds and always appeared around the turn of Hiso. They inhabit the surrounding forests and gorged on insects before moving onto a different forest around Darsus.

“I guess it’s that time of the year again.” Kaidus spoke to himself as he watched as the cloud of Lippars grow larger and blanket the sky.

“Kaidush, can Anish have a burd?” Anise asked, not taking her eye off the spectacle.

“Maybe if you’re a good girl.” He replied back.

“Anish ish a good gurl!” She pouted.

“I know.” Kaidus answered, a big smile on his face—showing that he was joking.

He cupped his hands together and stretched it out to his little sister. With a thought, he willed mana into the cupped hands.

Kaidus motioned for Anise to put her hands under his. She did so, and he opened his. A tiny wooden Lippar fell into her cupped hands.

“WAAA!!! Can I have it?!?” Anise beamed back, her eyes were overjoyed.

“Of course. I made it for you.” He smiled.

The Paltos siblings were currently at home, watching the migration through the living room window. Kaidus had been reading while Anise played with some toys that Adalina bought her. Adalina herself was sitting on a chair nearby, sewing a new dress for Anise.

*knock knock!* someone was at the door.

‘Who could that be?’ Adalina wondered, as she got up to get the door.

“Hello madam, is this the Paltos residence?” A stranger asked. There were two of them—a man and a woman.

“Yes, it is, and who might you two be?”

“We are mages from the 11^th ward Mystiks Guild. We would like to ask you a couple questions. Is that alright?” The female responded. On their right chest, they each wore a silver badge with a symbol on it.

“Yes, of course. How may I help you?” Adalina replied.

“Were you and your children in the shopping district five days ago? Around the afternoon?” The woman questioned.

“Five days ago… yes. Yes, we were.”

“What were you doing?”

“Buying ingredients for lunch and dinner…” Adalina answered, not sure where the questions were going.

“What about your son?” The man asked.

“What about my son?” She questioned.

“Was he also out shopping with you?” The man asked again.

“No. As I recall, he separated from me and my daughter, and went to a book-” Adalina stopped. She was feeling uneasy about this. “Sorry. May I ask what this is about?” She inquired.

“Of course. Around noon five days ago, three young men were beaten horribly in an alley near the outskirts of the shopping area. We are just following some leads that brought us here.” The man replied.

“…W-Why here? What does that have to do with us?” Adalina was dreading the answer.

“We were called over to investigate this event three days ago. One of the victims had injuries that would be impossible without magic. The only witness mentioned a young boy with black hair who used magic to attack them.”

Adalina’s body went limp.

As if on cue, Kaidus came over to the door. “Is everything alright?”

“K-Kaidus…” Adalina barely managed his name.

“You are Kaidus Paltos?” The woman asked, a hint of surprise in her voice as she scrutinized him.

“Yes, I am.” Kaidus answered, gazing back at the woman.

“We have information that you have awoken? And that you are currently going to Zorin academy?” The woman queried, almost doubtful.

“Yes.” Kaidus simply replied, not tearing away the gaze.

“Are you aware of an attack a couple days ago in an alley off of Trilsuv Street?” The woman added.

“Yes.” Kaidus calmly replied.

“Were… you involved”? The woman got to the point of the matter.

“Yes, I was.” Another calm answer, precise and honest.

Adalina’s knees buckled at the confession.

“For what reasons did you attack the boys?” The woman questioned. She was looking at him differently now. Unsure what to make of the brazen reply.

“I did it in self-defense.” Kaidus answered. Not wavering, or showing an ounce of regret.

“Self-defense?” The man spoke up. It was the first time they heard of any such thing.

“I was cutting through the alley, and they attacked me. I merely fought back.” Kaidus replied with a straight face. He did not want to lie, but he didn’t want to drag the poor girl who had gone through so much pain into this mess. Also, it was mostly the truth. They did attacked him first.

“…” The two mages were not sure what to make of it.

“M-My son would never do such a thing without reasons.” Adalina had managed to pick herself off the ground, and moved to hold Kaidus as she defended him.

“…that is the first we’ve heard of you fighting back in self-defense. Using magic maliciously to attack others is a serious offense. I’m sure you know that. Yet, if it was for self-defense, considering your age, there may be some justifications.” The man spoke.

“The point of this investigation is to find the culprit and bring them to trial. Would you be willing to explain your side of the incident in a trial?” The woman asked him, curiosity and doubt both showing on her face.

“Who am I to be judged by?” Kaidus promptly asked.

There were three different types of trials.

One is a trial judged by the people of the ward you live in. This sort of trial normally encases: domestic violence, disputes, theft, various damages, murders, fraud, etc… pretty much anything that had to do with any crime. The offenders are judged by those in their own ward, and was the most common trial for both commoners and nobles.
The second was a trial judged by members of the Mystiks guild. This usually happens when someone is abusing magic.
The third was the royal court. Offenders are brought before the King himself, and judged by him. This was where disputes between nobles usually ended up, along with uncertain disputes between high profile people in Ferrent.

“The Mystiks guild will oversee your trial. A messenger will deliver you the time and place.” The woman answered.

“Understood.” Kaidus calmly replied.

“NO! PLEASE! There must be a misunderstanding!” Adalina pleaded.

The Mystiks guild held the highest authority in Ferrent when it came to magic. At best, Kaidus would be freed without any problems. But if guilty, they would brand him as a dangerous element, and exile him. She has heard many stories from Lady Reanne of nobles who are found guilty of abusing magic, and sent to other continents as exiles.

“The decision has already been made during the beginning of our investigation. With that, our search comes to an end. Good luck at the trial.” The woman replied to Adalina’s pleas. The two mages promptly turned around and walked away.

They had been searching for the boy for three days already. It was only through their connection with Zorin academy, which they learned of a young mage. With that contact, they were able to trace the boy’s name back to where he lived. For him to have admitted to his crimes so easily, they were thankful that they did not have to resort to more violent means.

…

Two days later, a messenger arrived at the Paltos residence. The trial would take place at noon on the 34^th within the 3^rd ward. Three days before the end of Hiso.

 

—

 

It was nearing the afternoon, and Kaidus was sitting in a large room filled with people. They were waiting for the judges from the Mystiks guild to arrive.

The current room was in the 3^rd ward community building—located near the 3^rd ward library, and is one of the largest buildings in the area. The trial is in the main hall, allowing for spectators.

The room had two wooden podiums set on two sides—for the parties involved. There was a large desk in front of the podiums for the judges. Behind the podiums were benches for both parties, along with anyone else who would speak for them. The rest of the hall was empty of furniture, and the audience was left standing.

Troyle and Adalina were sitting next to Kaidus, with Anise on Adalina’s lap. Troyle had gotten the day off to come stand by his son for the trial.

Opposite of their position sat four angry families, and the boy who was unharmed. The boy was begging his parents to let him leave. Making eye contact with Kaidus, the boy started crying in fear—it only infuriated his parents.

Earlier when they saw each other, the angry parents had threatened to overrun the Paltos family. Lucky for them, the guards quickly stepped in before Kaidus needed to do anything. With the guards now in between them, the parents were now shouting at Troyle and Adalina for being unable to discipline Kaidus.

The Paltos family sat quietly as they waited for the judges.

A large audience had gathered in the hall.

Many of those from the shopping district—who knew the Paltos, were there to spectate. Others who heard of the attack and were curious to see the outcome, were also there to watch. Many people were merely there for entertainment, hoping for something dramatic.

Everyone was shocked to see that the malefactor who had caused such grievances, was nothing but a young boy. Even those from the shopping district who knew him, were shocked to hear that the calm young boy would do such a thing.

Mixed in with the crowd were a couple of nobles from the 11^th ward. An immaculately dressed old man with an insignia of a sword and helmet on his coat, with three companions. Another old man with a white beard and missing his left arm, also in the company of a few people. The two groups were in the back, failing at the feeble attempt to not draw attention to themselves. They were just there to see what the boy would do, and the outcome of the trial.

Also mixed in with the crowd were: Lord Varath, Lady Reanne, Jillian, and Sylvia. The Varath family had heard about the attack, and was there to witness the outcome of the trial.

As noon rolled around, nine people came into the room. Six women, and three men. The nine of them each wore a cloak with the insignia of the Mystiks guild on it—a flaming hand. The women wore cloaks of black and red, while the men wore white and red.

“Thank you for waiting. Let us commence this trial.” A woman around her 30’s spoke as the group sat down.

…

As the trial proceeded, Kaidus did not believe what he was hearing.

The parents of the four boys were collaborating their stories. Claiming that their kids would never have provoked Kaidus, and that the injuries they received were unwarranted. They appealed that their sons were good kids, even if they’ve done some wrong in the past, and that what Kaidus did was nothing short of attempted manslaughter. 

Each of the parent’s took turns going up to the podium to relay about the condition of their son, and what kind of a child they were. Spouting praises without an ounce of blemish.

This was the main goal of the vindictive families. Cooperating, the wealthier Heldeins house had used money and bribes, to force this into a public trial. They would discredit the boy who had done this to their sons, and disgrace his whole family.

Even with one of the boy’s incessant begging to not do such a thing, the parents had gone ahead with the plan.

“And the side of the offender?” The woman sitting in the middle of the desk—facing both parties—spoke up, gesturing to the Paltos family.

Troyle quickly stood up to defend his son.

“Father, please. Let me explain myself.” Kaidus request, also getting up.

Troyle heard the resolve in his son’s voice. He had heard about the problem from Adalina during dinner the day she learned of it. They both listened Kaidus’s short recount of the engagement. He knew his son would not do something like this without proper cause. Although he did not know what the cause was, he was confident in his son. Troyle sat back down, and allowed his young son to defend himself.

“You want to speak for yourself?” one of the judges spoke. Astonishment in her voice, at the young boy who took the stand.

“Yes.” Kaidus replied.

Surprise flew about the faces of the judges. They were not expecting such a young child—even after hearing about the case. For said child to calmly walk up to the podium, and ask to speak for his own defense, it was quite the unusual trial.

“Very well… can you tell us what happened on the 20^th of Hiso, in an alley near Trilsuv Street? What you were doing, and how did this incident come about?” Another judge asked.

The audience watched with abated breath, as the young culprit took the stand.

“Of course. I was on my way to the ‘Waylaying Pages’ book store. Using a path I normally take to avoid the rush of shoppers in the early afternoon, I ran across the four of them in the alley.” Kaidus calmly conveyed the first part of the engagement.

“Noticing that something was wrong, I approached the boys to investigate. Unable to divert me away with threats, three of them attacked me. In my surprise, I retaliated in self-defense. Upon seeing what they were doing, I simply gave them what they deserved.” He finished off his defense, not going into details.

“You dare lie in front of everyone?! The audacity!” A well-dressed man in his 40’s shouted at Kaidus. Anger in his voice, and sparking whispers amongst the audience.

“ENOUGH! Mister Heldeins, you will sit back down and hold your tongue!” The judge in the middle cried out, silencing the man—along with the room.

“And what was it they were doing?” The judge inquired.

“They were doing to someone, what I did to them.” Kaidus replied, his calm tone was gone. His words were filled with venom, as he turned glared at the man who spoke out of turn

The parents of the victims straightened up in their seats. They knew their sons were far from the stalwart images they had painted earlier.

“They were assaulting someone?” The judge asked.

“Yes Madam.” Kaidus replied, turning back to the judge. His dark eyes not showing an ounce of dishonesty.

The judges’ eyes perked up in curiosity. They had not heard of another victim.

“Who is this someone?” The judge added, as she watched Kaidus closely.

“I will not divulge that information. It would be better to ask the “victim” over there.” He replied, gesturing to the scared young man sitting on the other side.

“Young man. What is the boy talking about?” The head judge in the middle turned to ask the older boy.

“PROPOSTEROUS!” The same angry man shouted. “Six guards were there at the scene! Not a single one of them saw another person!”

“I am not asking you, mister Heldeins!” The judge shot an angry glare at the man. “One more outburst, and you will forfeit any further chances of disputing your claims!”

“YOU CAN’T BE-” The man started shouting again, but with a quick incantation from the judge, the man’s mouth locked up—unable to speak further.

“What is the boy talking about?” The judge looked at the cowering young man, and asked again.

“I-I-We…” The boy was tearing up, fear gripped him. He was unable to reply. The visage of his friend’s father attempting to shout, brought back the memories of what the child had done to them.

“He is in no position to answer. I will have to ask you to answer in his stead.” The judge spoke, returning to Kaidus.

“…” Kaidus was contemplating about whether or not to reveal the identity of the girl.

“It was a child… They were assaulting a young child.” Kaidus finally answered.

“My Ashis would never do such a thing!” A woman yelled out.

“Such drivel! My son would never harm a child!” The parents started yelling together, in congruity.

“SILENCE!” Another judge bellowed. His voice infused with mana—thundering through the room, silencing everyone. “Mister Heldeins brings up a good point. Where was this child when the guards came to help?” He asked Kaidus.

“I did not want to leave her with them, so I helped her home myself.” Kaidus replied.

More silent chatter from the audience at the mention of “her”.

“Her?” The judges’ face darkened. The pieces were coming together in this farce of a trial. They had only been briefed that a young mage viciously attacked four boys in self-defense. Nothing about the mage being such a young boy, that he was saving someone, or that the true victim was a little girl.

“And just how did you manage to help this girl, who you claimed was beaten so badly, home? Surely someone would have noticed her condition.” The head female judge asked. With the revelation of the girl, there was something else in the judge’s eyes. Perhaps a look of understanding, of sympathy.

“I healed her.” Kaidus openly stated, seeing no way out of the question. The hall flew into an uproar.

Healing magic was the highest order of magic, far beyond that of the other nine elements. It is not an element, but originates directly from the casters themselves. It was the epitome of a truly powerful magician. One who has complete mastery of their mana, and can bend it to their will.

Healing magic could heal injuries as horrific as severed limbs to things as simple as scratches. As long as the body was whole—or could be made whole again, it could heal it. The only known exceptions were: death, destroyed body parts, and the ability to heal others.

It was the most coveted of all skills. There were currently less than ten mages in the world who could heal themselves. While there are mages who dabbled in healing, they were nothing more but common physickers who could only set bones and stop internal bleeding with magic. True healing magic was the recovery of broken bones, the nullification of pain, and reinvigoration of one’s own body to a comfortable state of wellbeing.

The judges began whispering to themselves at the revelation.

Another person with healing magic had appeared in Ferrent. Not only is the user a child, his healing magic was not restricted to only himself. Someone who was overturning the laws of magic was in front of their eyes.

In the uproar, the door to the trial room opened. The people in the audience stopped chattering, and turned to look. The audience split down the middle, allowing those that had just entered to proceed to the front.

A young girl in a beautiful black dress walked forward. She walked with a stride that exhibited fear and hesitation, but her eyes shone with resolve and determination.

Behind her were two large men, carrying a young man. Two well-dressed man and woman followed behind.

“Celene?” Kaidus asked, as the young girl reached the front of the room.

“H-hello Kaidus.” She spoke, trying to give him a smile. Her actions belying the resolve in her eyes.

The parents of the “victims” turned pale at the intruders.

“Please… *sob* please let me go…” A young girl begged as she was surrounded by four teenage boys. Curled up against the wall, she clutched her knees to her body, trying to make herself as small as possible. On her left arm were scratch marks where she was forcibly pulled, her left cheek was red where she had been slapped, her black hair was ruffled up, and the blue dress she wore had patches of dirt on it marred with footprints.

“You’re not going anywhere until we’re done with you.” one of the boys replied.

“Damn right she isn’t.” another added, then grabbed her face—forcing her to look at him. “Now your brother is really going to regret telling the guards on us.” he said as he kicked her legs.

The girl screamed out in pain and one of the other boys quickly covered her mouth to muffle her screams before letting go again. The girl continued her silent sobbing.

She remembered these boys clearly. Her older brother was beaten by them, and her father had brought the guards in to investigate the brutal beating. After some careful coaxing, her brother revealed who the assailants were, and the proper punishments were served. That incident occurred last Zali, and it has already been two turns since then.

She was on her way to visit a friend, when she saw these boys. Confronting them for what they did, she was surrounded and dragged into this isolated alley.

“Do they really think a whipping and sitting in that dank cell for a turn is going to scare us?” the boy who kicked her smiled as he spoke.

“Don’t blame us, blame yourself and your brother for not doing as he was told. 200 erns is nothing for your family. He should have just kept bringing the money.” Another boy spoke, then kicked her.

She screamed out again, but a hand quickly covered her mouth.

Unable to cry out or shout for help and her body in pain, the young girl was powerless to do anything.

“What is going on here!?” a different voice broke through the air. She could not see who it was because of the large crate blocking her, but it sounded like that of a child.

 

—

 

Half of the Rjus had gone by since the event outside of Ferrent, and Kaidus has been enjoying the peaceful days relaxing. He still frequented books stores, but most of his time was spent with Adalina and Anise, just enjoying each other’s company.

After what he said in the carriage, Lord Varath had stopped pestering him about marriage.

His morning started with the usual routine: wake up early, meditation and mana exercise, eating breakfast with everyone, helping Adalina with chores, and spending the morning inside. Nearing the afternoon, after most of the chores were done, Adalina took Anise and went out shopping. Kaidus went along with them until the shopping district, then he separated and headed off by himself.

Making his way through the shopping district, he weaved through the throngs of people moving about doing their shopping, using the alleys as shortcuts and to avoid crowds.

As he made his way towards the outer edge of the shopping district—to one of his favorite book store, he ran past a large alleyway that cut into the one he was going though. Passing by, he heard a scream. Promptly stopping, Kaidus turned back to investigate. He saw three older boys smiling perversely at something that was hidden behind a large wooden crate filled with smaller containers.

“What is going on here!?” Kaidus shouted. The three boys turned to look at him, their smiles disappeared.

“None of your business, kid. Get out of here!” The one in front yelled out. The other two walked up and all three of them formed a wall, aligning themselves with the large crate, as if hiding something.

Kaidus took a few steps forward into the alley for a better look. The three boys were at least in their late teens, and towered over him. “I thought I heard someone scream?” he asked innocently, while expanding his senses.

“Nothing for you here. Get out of here before you get hurt!” The first boy shouted again.

Kaidus took another step forward toward them.

“I see… people like you can only be up to no good.” He replied at their threats, taking another step forward. His senses had picked up the presence of 5 people. The three boys, and 2 behind the crate.

“You Brat!” The first boy rushed Kaidus. He took one step, then froze. The other two looked surprised, as their friend suddenly stopped.

Kaidus walked toward them casually.

The two other boys tried to move, but they were also frozen.

Walking up to the three boys, he gently pushed the one who tried to rush him aside with magic and opened the human wall.

He walked past the crate to see what they were doing.

Hiding behind the crate, another older boy was holding onto a young girl of around the age of 10, his right hand covering her mouth. Tears were streaming down the girl’s face, her eyes were begging for help, and her cheeks were swollen. Even her expensive looking blue dress was all dirty. With the hand over her mouth, the girl couldn’t even make a sound.

The four of them had picked quite the place to commit such cruelty. Passerby who looked into the alley from the main road would only see the trash and stacks of smaller crates that the stores had thrown out. While those like him—who took the alley he came through, would only see a large crate overflowing with combustible materials, waiting to be burned. Even if they looked, they would only see three young men loitering, and not the beaten girl that was hidden in between.

Intense anger flared up inside of him.
-A young girl, laying broken… dying…
The vivid memory flashed in his mind.

He recalled the innocent Anise that was currently shopping with his mother. He saw her in the same position as this girl and the one from his memory.

The world stopped for a second, then his mind returned, and time flowed again.

“Release your hands, if you wish to keep them.” He commanded. His voice filled with an icy calm that seared the ears.

The fourth boy quickly released the girl. He was responsible for holding down the girl—keeping her quiet, while his friends dealt with anyone that came to snoop around. Standing up, he saw his three friends standing there, not moving. He tried to run, but as soon as the thought hit him, he was unable to move his body.

The young girl started sniveling, begging for help and to be released.

Kaidus could see the distinct hand prints on her cheek where she had been slapped more than once. He saw dirt on her dress where she had been kicked, and the scratches on her arm. She was curled into a tiny ball, her hair was messy as if it had been pulled. He did not know how long the abuse had been going on, but it looked like her mentality had been crushed.

“Hasen, conceal the alley way. Make sure no one can see what happens in here.” He grounded his teeth as he made the command.

“By… your will…” Hasen humbly obliged.

A shroud of darkness burst out, and covered both ends of the alley, making their position dark and imperceptible to those looking in.

With a thought, two dark walls of stone emerged from the ground, blocking any escape and sealing the six of them in.

He dispelled his immobilization spell and the four boys quickly grouped together, fear prominently showing in their eyes. Their previous smiles were gone, and none of them dared to do anything.

“You enjoy beating on little girls?” Kaidus spoke as he turned around to look at the girl who was begging and shaking in pain. His voice meandered through the air, freezing the four who heard it.

“Y-y-you… you’re a monster!” the boy who had rushed him before cried out, cowering as the group moved to the corner.

“YOU ARE THE MONSTERS!” He angrily yelled back. “Four of you beating on a little girl, and you accuse ME of being a MONSTER?!” The four boys shrunk back at his shouts.

“Sh-She had it coming! Little bitch was mouthing off at us!” the same boy yelled back with fear in his voice.

“*Hic* my *hic* m-my brother. T-they beat him… *sob* He- He can’t walk anymore… *sobbing*. Please… help me…” As if reflexively defending herself, the barely conscious girl spoke out against the accusation and begged for help.

Kaidus walked up to her.

He placed his hands on her curled up knees, and sent an infusion of mana into her. His mana worked as he willed and surged throughout her body, fixing any interior damages, and mending bones. Her swollen face cleared immediately and her crying quieted. *COUGH COUGH*. Coughing, the girl threw up a small amount of congealed blood.

He hugged her to his chest and with another thought, he willed the young girl to fall asleep.

He did not want her to see what he was about to do next.

 

—

 

Having laid the girl down to rest, Kaidus turned to look at the four boys.

“I take back my words… for lying to justify your malicious acts of evil… to have gone this far because a child angered you… for trash like you guys, please allow me to become a monster.” Kaidus spoke as he walked toward the four. His eyes were now glowing with a blue hue, and the temperature around him was dropping drastically.

“Y-you…” one of the boys attempted to speak, but stopped. Feeling the abnormal chill in the coldness of Hiso, his words grounded to a halt. The four of them backed up instinctively.

“You all ganged up against a defenseless girl without feeling an ounce of disgrace. Smiling happily, as you kick her and prevented her from screaming for help. Where is your conviction now? Where is your spirit?” Within arm’s reach of the boys, Kaidus ridiculed them, staring at them with disdain. Seeing the hesitation and fear in their eyes, “All that you have done to that girl, I shall return It.” he expressed his intentions.

Seeing no way out, one of the boys took a step forward and lunged at him—fist aiming at Kaidus’ head.

Seeing the attack, Kaidus twisted his body to the right and avoided the punch. Using the twisting motion, he brought forth his own right fist and blasted the arm that was coming for his head. The force of the punch halted his momentum and spun him the other way. Using the reverse spin, he threw forth his right foot for a low spin kick, smashing the outstretched leg of the older boy. The arm and leg shattered. Dangling only by the skin, blood gushed out profusely.

The older boy fell to the ground and screamed in agony, but nothing came out. It was as if something was blocking his mouth, preventing the sound of excruciating pain from escaping.

Upon seeing what happened, the three boys who were thinking about attacking trembled in fear. They tried backing up some more, but they were already up against the stone wall that cut off their escape.

The one who was holding down the girl earlier fell on his knees and started begging, but his voice did not come out. A violent gust shot at him, pummeling him in the chest—pushing him against the wall. His chest caved in, and the sound of bones breaking could be heard. The boy fell onto the ground gasping for air and coughing up blood.

Without waiting, the boy who had threatened and lunged at Kaidus, fell down in tears. His hand was together and his mouth begged and ask for forgiveness. But like the others, nothing came out. He suddenly fell onto the ground, convulsing, as his arms and legs dislocated and popped out of their sockets one by one—as if some force was pulling him apart. His mouth opening in silent screams of pain each time a bone dislocated.

The last one was also now begging wordlessly. Kaidus drew up closer to him.

“Are you scared?” He whispered. The older boy nodded his head vehemently. Tears were flowing out. “How does it feel? To be the one on the receiving end?” he asked, without doing anything further.

Kaidus took a step back from the bodies in front of him. “To have beaten someone to the point where they can’t even walk… to attack a child, because she challenged you… knowing your kind, I doubt this is your first time.” Kaidus spoke slowly.  “There is nothing lower than all of you. It would be a boon to the world, if I got rid of you all right here.” His tone was emotionless.

The only pair of eyes looking at him dilated. All hopes disappeared in those eyes.

“Yet, I am sure there are people who love you. Loved ones who would grieve if such trash were to be disposed of…” He added.

Kaidus approached the sleeping girl and picked her off the ground with magic. He heaved her arm over his shoulders, supporting her sleeping body as he moved toward the back alley. The stone wall opened up for him.

“I will now leave with this girl. As soon as the walls come down, you will go call for help for your friends. If they are treated quickly enough, they may yet live. Their life is in your hands. That is more than the chance you all would have given this girl.” Kaidus spoke indifferently. “One more thing.” He add, turning to look the boy in the eyes and making sure everyone heard him. “Do not look for me, or dare to do anything else like this. Next time I hear about such a thing, I WILL kill all of you. Stay out of my sight.” He warned as he left.

The opening in the stone wall closed up after Kaidus left. As if waiting on cue, the opposite wall slowly dissolved back into the paved ground, opening a path into the main roads.

 

—

 

She was dreaming.

The young girl was watching her brother getting attacked by a group of boys. Every time they punched him, she felt the pain. Each time he was kicked, she felt the shoes against her small body. Her brother curled up as they broke his legs, he begged as they shattered the arms protecting his face. She watched as he was crippled and left bleeding in an alley.

She cried.

Suddenly the dream shifted, and it was her in that exact position. Four boys were grinning as they kicked her. One held her mouth so she couldn’t yell for help. Deep inside of her, she feared for her life. She screamed inside with all her might for what felt like an eternity, screaming for help. Suddenly a voice shattered the painful dream. She felt her body refreshed and the pain disappeared. Her brother was there with her. He had helped her and they were both walking back home, happily laughing.

Her mind wavered at such bliss. That was not her reality. She remembered the position she was in. Her brother was not there to help her. He was laying in his bed, recovering from the injuries he had sustained. Her happiness shattered, and the pain came back. She fought with all her might to escape.

“-s…. ight… ery… kay…” she heard a familiar voice.

“It’s alright. Everything is okay.” She heard it clearly this time. There was a warmth to the voice. She could also feel a warm sensation right next to her, supporting her.

“Big brother?” she spoke as she tried to open her drowsy eyes.

“Are you feeling better?” The familiar voice asked her.

Rubbing her eyes to wake herself up, she turned to see a young boy. One even younger than herself.

Sleek black hair that fell down to his eyebrows. A childish face that was in the process of evolving, and wearing plain clothes that were common amongst the populace.

He turned to look at her then gently sat her on a crate.

The girl looked around. They were in an alley.

“NO! NO!!!!! PLEASE DON’T!!” She cried out, remembering what happened. His small hands quickly shot forth to grasp hers to calm her down. A strength belying his small stature.

“Please… no more…” She begged, on the verge of tears.

“It’s okay now. No one’s going to hurt you.” The boy spoke. His voice was calm and very soothing.

“What is your name?” He asked.

“C-Ce-Celene V-Valnur.” She managed.

“Good. Do you know where you live, Celene?” a coaxing voice that calmed and reassured.

“Y-yes… 3^rd w-ward, Dryva district…” she answered.

“Well then, let’s get you home.” He held out a hand to her.

She walked in silence, holding onto the younger boy’s hand. The fear and panic inside of her had subsided. She noticed that there was no pain in her body and that there was something strange about the boy. She wanted to ask, but she was too afraid to do so. Whether it be about him, how he got her out of that horrific situation, or what happened to her injuries, she kept silent, quietly walking behind the boy until they reached her house.

The Dryva district. Another residential area bordering the 3^rd ward’s shopping district. The difference between Dryva and that of the other districts were that: it was where the wealthy of the 3^rd ward lived. Large houses—almost comparable with the manors of nobles—rose side by side, many were even gated, and stationed with guards.

“Then I will take my leave.” The young boy spoke as they came upon the gates of her house.

“T-thank you…” She replied. Questions for the boy warred in her mind, trying to get out but none prevailed. … Seeing the boy leaving, “M-May I have your n-name?” Was all she could muster in her state.

“I am Kaidus Paltos.” The boy replied as he walked away.

“Lynor! Take Sylvia and Kaidus into the barracks! Everyone else, with me!” Lord Varath commanded.

“My Lord! You should also go inside! We don’t know what’s going on over there!” Troyle quickly advised Lord Varath.

“I will not hide while my men are fighting for their lives! Gather those who can fight! We’re moving soon!” Lord Varath replied, then shouted at his men.

Unarmed guards quickly went inside to gear up.
Soon enough, a group of men were standing outside of the building, armed with swords, spears, and bows. Their group numbered 11 altogether: 5 guards who came in the carriages, 4 uninjured guards who were stationed in the building, along with Troyle, and the Lord.

“Lord Varath, please allow me to join you all.” Kaidus pleaded as the group was about to move out.

“I thought I ordered Lynor to take you and Sylvia inside?” Lord Varath spoke, surprised that he was still there.

Troyle looked at his son, and then turned back to Lord Varath.
“My Lord, please allow my son to join us.”

“You said yourself, we do not know what is happening over there, and you want to bring along your son?” Lord Varath questioned.

“Kaidus himself wants to come along. If there’s any chance that he could help, I will not stop him.” Troyle answered.

Lord Varath turned to look at Kaidus more closely. Seeing the child’s calm and unyielding eyes, “…Very well… I welcome your help, young mage.” He spoke, clarifying Kaidus’s role to those around them. The group of guard’s eyes lit up at the mention of a mage in the party.

“Let’s go!” Lord Varath screamed out.

 

—

 

“…master…” Hasen echoed.

“I know Hasen. I can feel it.” Kaidus replied in his mind.

Each step they took, brought them closer to the ominous presence.

 

By the time they reached the point of entry into the forest, the screams had stopped.

Like many other forests, this one was also thick with wild plants and tall trees that branched out and covered the forest canopy. While the interior of the forest was quite visible and could be traversed due to it being only the afternoon, there was something innately wrong about it.

“My lord, will you not stay here and wait for us?” Troyle spoke, sensing the doom up ahead.

“I will not repeat myself Troyle. I am coming with everyone.” Lord Varath replied, adamant about his decision.

“Very well. Kaidus, stay by the Lord’s side at all cost. You two will be in the middle.”

“Yes, father.” Kaidus obeyed.

As they were about to head into the thick forest, a rustling could be heard coming from within. It got closer and closer until at last, one of the guards burst out through the thickets.

“Ha… ha… r-run..!” he voiced breathlessly, before collapsing onto the ground.

“Darin!!” all of the guards shouted, running to drag him out of the forest.

Bringing him out of the forest and into the light, they quickly noticed something wrong with the man.

Darin was missing his right hand, his weapons were gone, his clothes torn, and his face bloody. His pants were ripped and there were teeth marks on his legs, his hand was bleeding out, and the man looked half dead.

“Darin?! What happened in there?!” One of the guards shouted at the barely conscious man as they set him down on the ground.

“UUAAAAAAHHHH!!!” Darin suddenly screamed out in pain, snapping out of his exhaustion. Everyone gasped as a red flame flared up and cauterized the bleeding hand.

“Wrap his hand up!” Lord Varath ordered.

Without waiting for a second command or looking to see who had cauterized the wound, one of the guards took out a long piece of cloth from a bag he was carrying, and started bandaging the wound.

“My lord, we need to take Darin and get away from here now!” Troyle spoke anxiously.

“No! Lea-leave me… run!” Darin shouted painfully.

“RAOOOOOOOHH!” a piercing howl shot through the air.

“You… must leave! *COUGH COUGH*” Darin cried out one last time, before he started coughing.

“Circle formation! Surround the wounded!” Troyle swiftly ordered the guards, sensing danger.

The group seamlessly transformed into a circle surrounding Lord Varath, Kaidus, and the wounded Darin. Many of the men had trained with Troyle, thus they knew him to be a capable person. No one questioned his sudden commands.

Even before the formation had finished, korgas started streaming out of the forest as if they’d been waiting for the signal to attack. Small brown wild dogs that were up to the knees of a grown man, with long snouts for digging up burrowing preys, and sharp claws that allow them to latch onto trees—for simple climbing.

“What in the world?!” A guard spoke out.

“This can’t be real!” Another one cried in distress.

Some of the guards were silently praying, while other’s voiced their thoughts about the surreal situation.

“Where did all these come from!?!” Another shouted.

“Larvus, Grenth, and Zinn…*sob* everyone… they all gave up their life so that I- *sob* I could escape!” Darin started shouting and crying.

By the end of the outpouring, the korgas outnumbered the little group at least four to one. Korgas were known to live in packs, but never beyond the limit of 10 to 15 due to infighting, and lack of food. Having at least 40 together in a pack, was an unprecedented number.

Unable to move because of the defensive formation and in the middle of the road, the group was easily surrounded with nowhere to go. The less experienced guards started panicking.

“Group up together, and close the formation.” A voice reverberated through the air. The voice spoke, as if to each of the frightened guards individually. Commanding yet gentle, one that calmed and soothed, echoing in their head even after it had vanished.

Intuitively, everyone took a step back to stand shoulder to shoulder—closing the circular formation. Their fear replaced by the calming voice in their minds.

Having surrounded the group, the korgas were cautiously waiting for a chance to attack. Upon seeing the sudden movements, the korgas at the front leaped into action.

Some of the guards brought up their shields to defend while those with bows let fly their arrows. Out of nowhere, a small hurricane burst forth around them, smashing away the korgas in midair and catching the arrows.

Everyone turned to look at the only person in the group who could have done such a thing: the dark-haired child in the middle of the formation, the young mage.

Only now, the child’s eyes were glowing dimly, and his previously black hair was flashing silver in the light of the afternoon sun.

 

—

 

His instincts were correct in telling him to come with the group.

Surrounded with no way out, Kaidus quickly took action before anyone could get hurt.

Using voice magic, he quickly calmed the terrified group of guards. With a single thought, he called forth the wind, and coaxed it into a protective wall around them. With another thought and his dominating will, hundreds of small earth spikes shot out of the ground, impaling many of the korgas. Without waiting, he sent a wave of intense flame outward from their position—in the eye of the storm—and incinerated everything around them. The korgas that were injured by the earth spikes and those too close, turned into ashes while the few in the back quickly pounced out of the way, and back into the forest.

Everything happened within seconds of each other.

“GRAAUUUUHHH!!” Another piercing howl from the entrance of the forest.

The flame that was surrounding the hurricane got cleaved in half, and the tempest faltered for a few seconds before picking up again.

“It’s here. It’s here!” Darin shouted hysterically.

Out of the forest came the demon that the farmers had seen. A large hound, even bigger than the kaltiers. Glowing golden eyes, a jewel-like rock on its forehead, fiery red mane, and dark black fur. There were also two small horns sticking out of its head, along with powerful legs that could very likely rend through flesh and bones.

“Master…” Hasen whispered. “It is… corrupted… please… let me…”

“Wha-”

“RAAUUUUH!!!!” The creature howled again, cutting Kaidus’s questions, and his magic.

‘?!’ Kaidus was surprised.

A part of the wind shield got blown away, and he had to refocus his mana to strengthen it again. He refocused himself and stared at the beast with intrigue. The beast’s howl had the power and shock to blow away sustained magic. Even if momentarily, it could prove troublesome. ‘What do you mean corrupted?’ He shouted back in his head.

“Lost spirits… corrupted… unable… to return… to Lagus…” Hasen whispered back.

‘How is that possible?’ He asked.

“I… do not know…”

Yet seeing the thing in front of him, there was no denying it. The presence faintly resembled that of a spirit, and looking closer, the creature’s mane did not look fiery, but were in fact fire itself. The creature may have been a fire spirit.

“Stay within the barrier.” He commanded again. His childish voice weaving to everyone around him. Kaidus then took a couple steps forward until he was at the edge of the circular formation.

“Kaidus!?” Troyle called out to him.

“Father. Please stay here.” Kaidus replied before motioning for the guards to break the circle and let him out—not waiting for Troyle to stop him. The guards complied without a word.
Walking through the tempest and coming face to face with the corrupted spirit in front of him, it was all too real a fire spirit. The mane was emitting heat, the golden eyes burned with a yellow flame, and smoke was coming out of the beast’s mouth. Looking into its eyes, the beasts beckoned him, as if praying for release.

Around the beast, he could see that most of the korgas that fled in his fire attack earlier had returned.

“Hasen… free them all.” Kaidus ordered. “Everything returns to darkness…” He spoke quietly and solemnly, as Hasen unleashed its wrath.

 

—

 

He was hesitant to bring the child along, but seeing Troyle’s trust in the child, he had allowed it.

Now Lord Varath knew why.

Alzin Varath knew the child was extraordinary. He had seen for himself, a display of the child’s magic on their first meeting. But that was just a display, and he had his doubts about the effectiveness of a child when it came time for action.

He saw now, how wrong he was.

After easily dealing with the korgas that surrounded them, the child calmly walked out of the safety of the raging tempest, and confronted the fiery beast.

A mass of dark smoke manifested in front of the child, and shot forth at the beast. The beast quickly leaped backwards and blew deep red flames out, but the flames were consumed by the dark cloud as it moved forward. As if sensing danger, the beast turned around and attempted to jump back into the forest for cover. Yet before it could, the cloud had transformed into two arms and grabbed its hind legs.

“RAAAUUUHH!!! The beast howled once more, but the arms held tight. The cloud expanded and formed into hundreds of tiny daggers, then inserted themselves into the beast’s body.

Dark smoke started pouring out of the creature’s mouth, and eventually, the giant hound dissolved and vanished into smoke. The dark cloud then split into a thick mist and flew at the remaining korgas that were frozen with fear, consuming them all while leaving nothing behind.

Lord Alzin Varath and everyone watched, as the terrifying spectacle played out before them.

 

—

 

Having dealt with the problem, Kaidus eased his mana and willed the wind to disappear.

As soon as all magic ceased, he found himself staring at a group of bewildered guards.

Troyle stepped out of the group.

“Are you alright?” Troyle asked, not a shred of fear in him toward his son.

“Yes.” Kaidus answered, glad that Troyle no longer looked at him in fear.

“Did you know what that was?” Troyle added.

“It was a fire spirit. I don’t know what, but there was something wrong with it. I could see it when I looked in its eyes…”

“Thank you, Kaidus. I don’t know what would happen if you had not asked to come earlier.” Lord Varath came out of the fortification, and gave Kaidus his thanks. A glint of fear could be seen in his eyes.

A team with Troyle at the front was sent into the forest to look for remains of the deceased, while the rest waited at the entrance.

“WaaaaaUwaaaaa!!” Crisis averted; Darin began crying. “Those demons, they killed Zinn first! They were eating him, and I-I couldn’t do anything! Larvus got dragged off, and Grenth…*sobbing* H-h-he chopped off my arm so that I could escape from the mouth of that beast! *sob* He stayed behind so that I could escape!” Darin cried, recalling everything that happened in the forest. “He saved a coward like me!” guilt stricken; tears streamed out of him.

The small group waited in silence as they listened to the cries of their comrade, relieved that their situation had not gone the same route. Some of them turned towards the child that had changed it, their fear slowly turning into gratitude.

After a while, the forest team returns with three large bundles.

“We were able to find all three of them, but… there were only bones left.” Troyle told everyone.

“I see… bring them. We will give them a proper burial.” Lord Varath spoke gravely.

No one spoke on the trip back to the farm barrack.

…

“Lord Varath!” Lynor rushed out to greet them as soon as he saw them. “What happened?!” he exclaimed at the sight of Darin, and the bloody bundles.

“Lynor… now’s not the time. Please send word to the family of Grenth, Larvus, and Zinn.” Lord Varath ordered.

“Yes, my lord…” Lynor somberly walked back into the build to issue the task. He understood all too well, what notifying the families meant.

—

 

Lord Varath, Troyle, Kaidus, and Sylvia were all riding in a single carriage back to the Varath manor.

All of the guards that had gone with them were now stationed in the outskirts, and the only people returning were the 4 carriage drivers, and the four of them.

Being the good child, she is, Sylvia had not asked about the event of the day. They rode in silence until they reached the gates of the 11^th ward before Lord Varath finally spoke up.

“I… I don’t know how to thank you Kaidus.” They all looked at the lord. Lord Varath had on a solemn and serious face, his usual playful demeanor gone.

“I have offered you my greatest treasure… my daughter… the gift of family and the riches along with it, but you have refused.” The lord spoke slowly and eloquently.

“Although it is something of a secret, I myself am also a mage. Though I lack the abilities, and my rank is the lowest of Mahj, I still considered myself someone of power. Today, I saw for myself what a truly powerful mage is. I now understand your refusal towards my daughter, and I can’t bring myself to take any offense at the refusal. For one such as you who will surely be granted all he desires, I can give nothing but my deepest gratitude for all you’ve done.” Lord Varath gave a sincere bow.

“Please raise your head, my lord.” Kaidus spoke in his usual calm tone. “I do not refuse because of my gifts. I refuse, because I will not be the shackles that binds your daughter. I will not keep her from her freedom, and rule over her life. I implore you to let this notion of marriage go, and allow the future to unwind as it will. Sylvia is a beautiful girl. I know that she will one day find a partner befitting her.”

“I understand…” Lord Varath replied, looking at the child who had put such thoughts into the proposal.

The four of them sat in silence all the way until the Varath Manor.

 

—

 

It was evening, and dinner had just passed.

In her room, Sylvia was thinking about everything that had occurred over the course of the day.

She thought about the morning and her carriage ride with the boy.

About the stories he had told her while on the ride, his expressions that lit up when she asked about certain things pertaining to magic, his serious face as he stared quietly toward the broken fields, and his calm coolness like those of an adult, which only made her more nervous around him.

She heard her father order them both inside the building earlier, but when she got inside, he was nowhere to be found.

Not only did her father take him into a dangerous situation, from what she heard, he was the one who saved her father and everyone else.

What the boy said on the ride home really caught her by surprise.

She remembered everything that her mother and father told her over the past year after meeting the boy for the first time.

At first, a small part of her was intrigued by the boy, but in her mind she was always fighting against her parent’s future designs. Lessons about being a proper lady, proper etiquette, engaging in conversations, reading the atmosphere, education, and even dancing lessons which she was bad at.

Everything, they claimed, was for her future with this young boy who she barely knew. She went along with it because she did not want to disappoint her parents, but what he said earlier today opened her eyes to why they were so adamant about it.

“I refuse, because I will not be the shackles that bind your daughter.” She quoted him. She was young, but she had been taught well—especially over the past year. She was not one who could not read the underlying message in those words.

She pictured his calm impassive face in her mind. “Kaidus” she spoke his name, and her face grew hot and embarrassed.

“I refuse, because I will not be the shackles that binds your daughter.” She spoke the words one more time, replaying the scene and his conviction again in her head. She smiled briefly, then remembered the words after that. “I implore you to let this notion of marriage go.” It had struck her hard when he first spoke it in the carriage. She had finally started to like the boy, and he even saved her father’s life. Hearing those words, it felt like a harsh rejection.

“You think you can catch him?” her father’s words after their first meeting interrupted the playback, giving her a little hope.

Her mind was made up. She got off her bed and went to look for her mother.

She had been watching the boy all day long. Next time she sees him, she would at least make him notice her. Marriage, or no marriage.

 

—

 

-In a different corner of the world-

An old man walked through a desolate forest filled with dead trees. Nothing grew in these woods, and not a single animal or insect could be heard. All it is, was barren grounds filled with gray lifeless trees covered by a thick fog.

Undeterred, the old man walked diligently along a path until he came across a small hut. Opening the doors, the inside was empty, save for a single burning candle on a small post. With a thought, the ground of the hut opened up, revealing a stairwell leading down into the earth. The old man gave another thought, and an orb of light ignited in front of him to slowly descend the stairs. The old man followed.

Reaching the bottom of the stairs, the earth opened up into a large room. Seven hooded figures stood, waiting for him.

“Thank you for coming, master.” One of the hooded figures spoke out.

“What is the occasion for calling me?” a tense atmosphere swept through the room at his words.

“One of our familiars in Darsus has been destroyed.” Another hooded figure spoke up.

“Destroyed? Where in Darsus?” The old man questioned.

“The link broke outside of Ferrent.”

“Was it Nylen?” The old man immediately remembered an old enemy.

“We do not know, master. The link was severed and all traces of the familiar has disappeared.” The figure replied back.

“Interesting… I wonder if Nylen’s little play school has actually bore some fruits.” The old man pondered out loud.

“Master, what should we do? Should we send in another?” the hooded figure asked.

“We poke around any longer, and Nylen may notice something is up. Recall our scouts for now.” the old man answered. “What about the situation in Malpaars?”

“The revolution is going as we hoped. All that is left, is to wait it out, and see which side comes out on top. Both sides will be devastated regardless of who wins.”

“Perfect.” The old man smiled at the good news. “Give me the other reports.” He commanded.

“Yes, master.” The group of seven simultaneously answered.

“Good afternoon everyone.” A weary Kaidus spoke to the group as he sat down.

“Are you okay?” A female student asked him.

“I’m fine. I just didn’t think the council would still be having this much issues to deal with after a whole term.” Kaidus replied, almost as tired as he looked.

“Is the council still dealing with the Zeyvir problem?” A male student asked.

“No. We were able to get that sorted out before the last ryes. This time is something else.”

It was now Palx—the last turn of the year, and the end of the school term. The next turn Hiso, would be the Rjus—a long break. His Birthday had come and gone, and he was now 8.

Currently, their 2^nd class had just ended and the usual party had gathered for lunch. The group consisted of: Mirat Klivus, Jorva Zeille, Prim Lithius, Lisin Rhonorus, and Kaidus himself.

It has almost been a whole term since the day Prim and Lisin first joined him—to formally apologize to him. After that, they had joined him for lunch whenever they could. Jorva also came and apologize to him, joining them. After seeing the four of them, Mirat also joined in.

While an awkward amalgamation at first: a commoner, a low Noble, a prestigious princess of the Lithius family, and two high nobles. The group eventually got past their differences, and were finally starting to speak casually to one another as respectable colleagues.

Eating together had been something that Prim and Lisin were doing to alleviate their guilt while getting to know Kaidus better, but with the addition of Jorva and Mirat, lunch became something of a get-together. As Jorva and Lisin got to know Kaidus, their fear receded, and both started joining in on the conversations—making small talks of their own. The incident between them, all but forgotten.

“So, what happened?” Mirat followed up on his earlier question.

“Another scuffle between students last night. I spent all of 2^nd class helping with the questions and recording everything down. This is the third day in a row.” Kaidus answered as he ate.

“Ugh… sounds rough…” Mirat replied sympathetically.

“I heard the last student in intermediate summoning class has managed to contract with a spirit. It seems, come the new term, all of them will be moving up to advanced summoning.” Prim spoke, not wanting to intrude onto council business.

“Oh, me too. There’s only a few of them this term, right? Maybe we should sign up next term, and see if we can get ourselves a spirit.” Lisin suggested.

“You must be offered the class during enrollment Lisin. The masters are the ones who decides which classes you could sign up for.” Prim informed.

“Ah right… that’s too bad…”

“I’m sure you’ll be able to get into summoning class soon Lisin. You just have to keep going like how we’ve been ever since our first year.” Prim reassured her friend.

“Yea.”

“OH! I just remembered something I heard from my father over the ryes. Any of you hear about the conflict in Malpaars?” Jorva interjected.

“The war?”  Lisin asked.

“A little. My older brother spoke to me about it.”

“No, can’t say I have.” Kaidus answered.

“Me neither.” Mirat added.

“From what my father says, it seems bandits had incited a…” Jorva spoke as everyone else ate while listening to him.

…

“What is everyone’s plan for the Rjus?” Mirat asked the group after they finished their talk about the war.

 “I’m staying here to practice my magic with some other students who are also staying.” Jorva swiftly answered.

“My father says he has a trip planned for my siblings and I, but I still don’t know how long the trip will take. I don’t want to miss the start of the next term.” Prim answered.

“Lisin? Kaidus?” Mirat questioned.

“I’m not sure. Maybe go back home and spend the Rjus with my family.” Kaidus answered.

“Me too.” Lisin added.

“And you Mirat?” Jorva asked.

“Heheh… I will be traveling around and going through Ferrent’s nearby villages and towns with my father. Getting a feel for the land, and acquainted with the people.” Mirat smiled happily as he spoke.

Lunch went by like usual. Random tidbits of information here and there, friendly banters, inquiring about classes, and helping each other with aspects relating to their class.

As lunch came to an end, the group dispersed and Kaidus left for the council room.

…

“Where’s Philnor?” He questioned as he entered.

“Not here yet.” Julesi answered as she was jotted something down.

Kaidus went over to where Willex the 3^rd chair is, and started helping to sort through the council records by date—for the end of the term.

The Council had not been what he expected. Thinking back, he had been naïve.

The mundane tasks he was shown that first day was but a fraction of the jobs in the council. He planned to use any free-study time to peruse the library, but there was always something to do.

Student’s accidently hurting bystanders with magic, breaking things, blowing up objects, flooding rooms, fighting with other schools, misconducts unfit for those of the academy, along with various other troublesome causes. The egos of nobles were a truly frightening thing, and was more so for nobles with great power.

…

With the day over, Kaidus was in his room looking through the notes he wrote down earlier in the library.

His quest for clues was still an ongoing one. As he had hoped, there were clues regarding large winged creatures in the thousands of records of eye witness accounts and stories. Having meticulously looked through more than half of them, he was able to find some information.

‘If I can just find one of these… if they are as old as the stories claim, maybe… just maybe, I can get some answers.’ He thought to himself as he looked through the countless pages of notes he recorded, putting together where these unknown creatures were spotted.

 

—

 

As the term came to an end, Kaidus was leaving for home. Most of his belongings had already been sent ahead of time, and it was now just him and a small sack with his notes.

Having said his good byes to the masters, and their little group earlier at lunch, it was time to leave the academy.

As this would be the last time he see Zeeke for a while, he decided to bid the Gate seer goodbye.

As he approached, the feline looking spirit came up to greet him.

“Grrrarar!” It sounded happy.

“Hello Zeeke.”

“Garaaaa”

“I’ll be going home for a while, so I’m here to say goodbye for now. I’ll be back next term.”

“Ra?” Zeeke replied, sniffing about Kaidus and his luggage.

“Here you go.” Kaidus pulled out a small piece of derilt root from his pocket and gave it to Zeeke.
“Rrraarararaa!” it was elated. Quickly snatching the derilt root and swiftly disappearing into its shack before coming out again.

“RAAAR!!” it roared happily, moving in to nuzzle Kaidus’s leg.

“I’ll bring you something fresh when I come back.” He said as he bent down to stroke the small cat’s grassy fur.

The nature spirit had been indifferent to him at first. Try as he might, he was getting nowhere close to befriending it. It wasn’t until he came back to the academy, and was eating Adalina’s packed lunch on one of the benches nearby, that Zeeke came to him. It was because of the laraze slices in the lunch that had attracted the feline. 

Ever since then, he has been giving it all sorts of vegetables. It turns out, Zeeke will only take uncooked raw vegetables. He still had no idea what Zeeke did with them, but it was somewhat bringing them closer together.

After saying his goodbye, Kaidus left the academy.

 

—

 

“KAIDUSH!! Anise tackled him as he arrived at home.

“Welcome back honey.” Adalina also gave him a hug.  

“I’m home.” Kaidus gave them a big smile.

“I’ve put the luggage you sent earlier in your room.”

“Thank you, mother.”

“Diner is ready, but your father is not home yet. Would you like a snack while we wait?”

“No, it’s okay, I had a snack on my way home. We can wait for father.” He answered as they made their way to the living room.

“Kaidush? Are you shtaying thish time?” Anise asked, her face pleading him to stay.

“I’m staying for a long time.” Kaidus answered back with a grin.

“YESH!” Anise exclaimed happily as she hugged him. Adalina watched with a warm smile on her face.

“So, what have you been up to this time while I was gone?” Kaidus asked Anise.

True to his promise, he had been coming home every ryes to spend time with the family.

“Mommy wead the shleeping dog and the angwy cat to me yeshterday. And guessh what, guessh what.” she asked him with a smile on her face.

“What?”

“We shaw a big dog today! He walked by ush but I washnt shcared!” a huge grin on her face, her dimples prominently showing.

“Good girl.” He smiled back as he gently stroke her hair.

“Ehehehe!” And she laughed as she hugged him again.

“You said last time that this will be a long break?” Adalina asked from where she sat.

“Yea. It’s a turn long, so I’ll be home until the start of Alivai.” He replied back to Adalina while gently petting Anise’s head.

…

“So… Lord Varath’s been asking about you.” Troyle said with a grin as they ate.

“…Why would he be asking about me?” Kaidus asked.

“He really likes you. And… I may have said something about you coming back for a long break while we were drinking a couple days ago.” Troyle tried to give an innocent grin.

“…”

“Is this about the marriage proposal?” Adalina interposed.

“Why does mother know?” Kaidus asked Troyle curiously.

“I… may have told her.” Troyle gave another innocent grin. This time, with a wink.

“…” He was dumbfounded.

“Oh? Is it bad that I found out?” Adalina teased.

“No. What do you think about the proposal?” he asked Adalina calmly.

“I thought it was a fine proposal.” Adalina replied. “Miss Reanne has brought Sylvia over a few times to visit. Isn’t she a cute girl? She’s very nice, and gets along well with Anise too.”

“Shylvia?” Anise looked up from her plate.

“Yes. Big sister Sylvia. You like her don’t you?” Adalina spoke to Anise.

“Yea! Big shister shylvia ish very nicshe. She plays with Anish!” Anise replied happily at the mention of Sylvia.

“You too Anise?”
‘What fearsome parents.’ Kaidus thought, remembering Lord Varath and his wife Reanne. They were truly trying to ensnare him one way or another.

“I know you just got back, but how about joining us tomorrow? The lord’s been asking me to bring you to visit for quite a while now. I’ve been telling him you are at school, but I don’t think I can use that excuse anymore.” Troyle asked.

“A visit to Lord Varath’s Estate again?” Kaidus inquired cautiously.

“We’ll just be there to pick up the Lord. We’re heading outside tomorrow to check up on the derilt farms.

“Something wrong with the farms again?”

“There was a report two nights ago about an attack. The lord has gathered up some men, and we’re going to check it out and make sure the farmers are okay.” Troyle explained.

“I see, in that case, please allow me join you. It’s been too long since I’ve ventured outside of Ferrent.” Kaidus replied.

“Good. Same time tomorrow then.”

“Got it.”

 

—

 

“Troyle. What do you think is happening?” Lord Varath questioned with a wide grin on his face.

“My Lord, they’re children…”

There were four carriages moving toward the outer gates of Ferrent.
Troyle and Lord Varath in the first one, two kids in the second, followed by another two that were occupied by guards.

Kaidus sat facing a girl with short dark blue hair in a cobalt dress. This time, she was meekly looking back at him. The scared sheltered princess he had met almost a year ago was holding her grounds.

When they arrived at the Lord’s estate, Lord Varath had immediately called for Sylvia to join them, then threw them both in a carriage together.

“Good to see you again, Lady Sylvia. How have you been?”

“I-I’ve been fine. T-Thank you.” She managed a meek reply.

“Is this your first time out of Ferrent?” Kaidus asked.

“Y-yes.”

“Are you scared?”

“No. F-father said you would p-protect me.” She replied nervously, but her eyes showed absolute trust in her father’s words.

‘Hah… that man…’ Kaidus pictured Lord Varath’s grinning face in his mind.

“Did he say anything else?”

“No…” She looked away embarrassed.

“Sorry. I will not pry on the subject.” Kaidus felt that it was better he did not know.

“F-father said you go to Zorin academy… my big brother Larant is going there soon.” She timidly spoke, trying to start a conversation.

As they rode, he attempted to entertained Sylvia with stories about the academy, and about magic.

…

Reaching a building in the outer farmlands, he finally witnessed what Troyle had always talked about as he stepped out of the carriage.

The areas of farmland that bordered the forests and wilderness were ravaged by wild animals, and many guards were injured. Having expanded the farms into their territories, many animals were retaliating against the farmers, and eating or destroying their crops.

“This is quite bad…” Troyle spoke as they saw the fields.

“Indeed. Even worse than the last time.” Lord Varath added to the grimness.

“Lord Varath. Thank you for coming!” A guard came out of the building to greet them.

“Lynor, what happened here?” Lord Varath asked his guard.

“Two days ago the korgas suddenly came out of the woods and killed three of our kaltiers and two farmers. We’ve been fighting them ever since. Some of the workers were able to escape in time because of the hounds, but none of them are willing to go back out into the fields now.” The guard answered.

“Three kaltiers and two workers?” Lord Varath voiced in disbelief. “Korgas are but a fraction of the size of a kaltier, how is that possible? And what happened to the workers?” Lord Varath inquired further.

“My lord… the workers claimed a demon was commanding the korgas, and that it was the one who killed the Kaltiers. The attack was so sudden, that we were caught unawares… we couldn’t protect those two.” Lynor spoke angrily at that last part.

“A demon?”

“Yes, my lord. They say it was in the guise of a large hound. Those who saw it, said it was as large as any Kaltier with thick fiery red fur, and glowing golden eyes.”

“Did any of you see this demon?” Troyle asked the guard.

“No sir, we have not. But with the kaltiers dead, the korgas have been coming further into the farmlands. We barely repelled them yesterday day. If you had not come today, I fear to imagine what would happen if they attacked again.”

“Take me inside. I want to hear everyone’s own account. Grenth, you guys keep an eye out, and watch my daughter and the carriages.” Lord Varath ordered.

“Yes, my lord.” Both Grenth and Lynor answered.

 

—

 

Staring at the damages, Kaidus could see that it was out of the ordinary. The fences along the outsides were broken, derilt plants were trampled and dug up, soil was overturned here and there, and the land was a huge mess.

After a while, Lord Varath and Troyle came out of the building.
“Grenth, take a few men and follow the road. I want you to circle back into the forest and scout that area.” Lord Varath pointed towards a patch of the forest bordering the fields. “Don’t take any chances. Just see if you can pick up anything and report back.”

“Understood.”
Taking half the men who came with them, Grenth and the scouting party followed the road until they were out of sight, then ventured into the thick forest.

“What do you make of this?” Lord Varath asked Troyle.

“I don’t know my lord. Maybe we should consider what the farmers are saying?”

“Hmmm…”

“Every one of them said the same thing. They all clearly saw something and it would be unwise to not consider the possibilities.”

“I don’t doubt that they saw something, but no one has ever seen a demon or even know what they look like. I can’t bring myself to believe that it is anything more than an overgrown beast of sorts…”

Kaidus was silently watching the forest as Troyle and Lord Varath talked about the problem at hand. Having silently observed for a while, an ominous presence began manifesting from the direction of the scouts.

“Something is happening.” Kaidus interrupted their talk.

“What’s going on?” Lord Varath asked.

“GYAHHH!!!!!” A doomed scream sounded off in the distance.

A sizable room with a round table in the middle. Currently there were five people in the room including him.

A female gveril, a large human male, a skinny male Kovus, and two human female students.

“I see.” The large male student said after reading the introduction letter.

“I am Philnor Strusaend, 6th year advance student, first chair and head of this small council.” Philnor introduced himself and then turned to the others in the room.

“That is Alexus Vanaragh, 5th chair and a 5th year student. The woman over there is Julesi Haringsilt, 2nd chair and a 6th year also.” Philnor continued undisturbed. “That is Val Reudin, 6th chair and the only 4th year in the council. Currently away on council business are: Willex Qholton 3rd chair, and Dresile Gullivin 4th chair, both 6th years.”

Having introduced everyone in the room, he brought forth Kaidus.

“Everyone, this is Kaidus Paltos. You may have heard the rumors, he is the youngest student ever admitted into any of the academies, and our 7th chair as of today.”

“Don’t forget, he’s a commoner too.” The female student called Val added to Philnor’s introduction.

“He’s a little small…” Alexus gave a gauging remark.

“His height and origin matters not. I’m sure he’s in Zorin on his own merits.” Philnor reprimanded Alexus and Val’s words.

“I didn’t mean that as an insult. What I mean is: don’t forget that he is a commoner with the ability to get into Zorin. I would not dare to insult someone like that. Forgive me if I may have given offense.” A calm and eloquent explanation came out of Val along with an apology toward Kaidus.

“None taken. My commoner status is true, and no secret to anyone.” Kaidus replied in his usual tone.

“Will he be able to handle council business? I understand that only those with sufficient abilities are in the council, but isn’t he too small? Wouldn’t his size hinder his abilities?” Alexus asked, upon evaluating Kaidus further.

“That rumor we were just talking about earlier… the student that faced off against four mast-”

“Him?!” Alexus’s face distorted with disbelief.

“It must be.” Philnor replied back, showing no annoyance at the interruption. “Currently, students are still being evaluated before they are drafted into the council. Rumors of someone fighting the masters last night started flying around this morning, and then he shows up with a letter announcing his position as a first year. This is too much of a coincidence.” Philnor explained.

“Really?!” Val’s eyes lit up. “The rumors say you took on four of the masters single handedly!” she exclaimed.

“No. I was only fighting one of them, and it was just a test.” Kaidus replied, trying not to go into details.

“I see! So that’s why you’re in here!” Her excitement over the topic was obvious.

“If you don’t mind, what exactly is this Council of Magi, and what do we do?” Kaidus quickly asked.

“The council is a selective self-study plus enforcement class made up of 10 students. Besides the head and his second that rolled over from the previous year’s council, everyone else is new and hand-picked by the masters.” Instead of Philnor or Val, Julesi replied to his question.

“With the completion of their studies, older and more experienced students leave the school while new students join. In this new phase, while the students try and sort each other out, troublemakers always appear. It is the job of the Council of Magi to discipline these reckless people and inspire them. Whether it be through sheer display of our magic, or forcing them into submission. Along with various other chores and perks”

‘Great…’ Kaidus quickly recalled the incident with Jorva and Lisin in his mind.

“… Master Drilm also mentioned something about rivalries with other schools?” Kaidus added”.

“Yes. Students frequently get into disputes with other schools during the ryes, so it is also our job to judge and administer proper punishments. When it is brought to our attention, of course. Each of the three councils are responsible for their own students…” Julesi started a string of explanations.

Listening, Kaidus memorized the key points.

Essentially:

-Student related problems go directly to the Council, and are solved by the council–sometimes with help from the masters. These are things such as improper use of magic, mismanagement of funds for those working in the student ran shops, student disputes, or conducts unfit for members of the academy. Punishments ranges from minor services or apologies, to payments if properties were destroyed or broken, to suspensions and expulsion.

-Disputes with other schools are judged via representatives and given a suitable penalty after both parties have had a chance to give their stories. If a punishment is found untasteful, representatives can contest against other school reps to instill their own punishments that they see fit.
-People will keep quiet and leave their issues out, but any that that does come through, is handled to the utmost by the council.
-It is a free study class when there is no problems to mediate or issues to solve. Each student may do as they wish.
-There is no master for the class. Each of those chosen as a member should have the integrity to uphold themselves, and the honor of Zorin.
-Council jobs may excuse members from their other classes.
-Only capable students are recruited to join the Council of Magi.

“What about today?” Kaidus asked, having grasped responsibilities of the council.

“We got words that one of the newer student’s got into a minor feud with another from Tiokin over the ryes. I’ve already assigned Willex and Dresile to get his statement.” Philnor replied. “I’m pairing you with Val. Go with her and watch how things are done to get a feel for the job. First up, is extracting an offender from his class.”

…

Walking through the academy grounds with Val, he had to quicken his steps to keep up with her longer strides. Seeing it, Val slowed down to keep pace with him.

“So you’ve awoken?” She asked, amazement in her voice.

“Yes.”

“Since when?”

“A couple years ago…” Kaidus gave a vague answer.

“Amazing. I’ve never heard of anyone awaking before they are at least in their teens. You must be some kind of genius. Who taught you how to control your mana?”

“I… my magic is self-taught…” It wasn’t really a lie. He had taught himself ever since moving to Ferrent using his old memories.

“Really?”

“Yea… my parents couldn’t afford a teacher, so I just kind of practiced on my own, getting a feel for the magic.” He left out the truth, but gave an explanation that would help explain his unusual circumstance.

“… I don’t know what to say, but if that’s the case, you really are a genius. I’ve heard of people learning magic on their own, but never to the potential of those with a teacher or here at the academy.” She replied, smiling at him.

Having appeased Val somewhat,

“So, who are we after and what did they do?” Kaidus questioned, before Val could inquire any more about him.

“Bastus Granilt. A student reported yesterday that there was water coming out of the room next to his. When Alexus went to investigate, he found that half of the room was burnt, and the floor soaked. We questioned Bastus, the owner of the room, and he confessed to having burnt the room trying out one of his new incantation. We’ve moved him, but Alexus has been logging the cost of the damage.”

“So now that Alexus is done, this summon is to finalize the fees?” Kaidus finished.

“You got it. We’re going to call on him to get some paper work filled out, and make sure that he knows what he’s being penalized for.”

“You said he confessed, what happens when people don’t confess?”

“Well, then they risk expulsion when we find out the truth.”

“How?”

“By bringing in the masters. A few of them can concoct some nasty potions that make people quite talkative. With a little bit of goading, the truth always comes out.” Val gave Kaidus a sinister grin.

Following Val and observing, it turns out, the council’s job was quite mediocre and mundane. There were lots of tedious processes, and a whole lot of going back and forth between the council room and other practical buildings. So far, it was nothing as enthralling as he had been made to believe.

‘Please let it continue like this.’ Kaidus thought to himself as the class came to an end.

 

—

 

Making sure his shoes were tied, his clothes were buttoned, and anything that would impede his movements were in safe hands, he was currently preparing to enter the arena with his partners.

It has been seven days since he first started the new schedule, and the ryes was tomorrow. The plan was to go back home to spend time with his family.

But first, it was group combat.

“Alright! Since you are the first groups, I’ll go over the rules again.

NO LETHAL MAGIC! Got it?! Begin when ready!” the master quickly shouted out as the participants entered the arena.

Kaidus sighed. He had not wanted to participate and had used various menial jobs as a council member to excuse himself. With the consent of the combat master, the ruse had worked for a short while, but those who learned about it were boldly speaking up against his inactivity in the class. With many eager students waiting to see the abilities of a child who rose to advance in his first year, and many questioning those abilities, he was left with no options but to join in.

Walking to their respective sides, the two groups waved to each other signaling readiness.

“Since this is your first mock battle, you can support from the rear.” An older student called Eryne told him as they started. With mana enhanced legs, the student quickly dashed toward their opponents.

“Asiran! Velo tashine oray-” His other teammate was casting a mana shield for the one that was charging.

Kaidus watched the inevitable clash.

An opponent in the back finished casting and shot forth a bolt of lightning to stop his charging teammate. The other two finished shortly after, and blew forth a combination of wind and water to impede the charge also.

The lightning bolt struck first, but was absorbed by the mana shield, while the water and wind blasted Eryne, halting his progress. With the shield protecting him, Eryne edged toward the left to escape the surge of wind and water, conjuring a mana shield of his own to reinforce him.

As soon as he was close enough to the edge, the ground distorted and softened, swallowing his legs and stopping his movements—the mage who casted the bolt had changed magic.

Suddenly the mud underneath solidified and pushed his legs out of the ground. Eryne quickly moved away from the torrent.

Seeing him escape, the three opponents stopped sustaining their magic. One moved out to engage while the other two supported him from the rear.

“Frost-Field!” One of the opponents shouted an immobilization spell. The area around Eryne started growing colder, and his body began slowing down.

“Flames of life!” Kaidus’s other partner countered with an invigoration spell.

Before the invigoration spell could take effect, the opponent who had moved to the front quickly moved toward Eryne. With his hand in a fist, the student was going for a stomach blow but was suddenly thrown backwards.

With the invigoration spell kicking in, Eryne easily escaped the frost field and got into range of the opponent that was thrown backwards. He went for a fast kick to the side, but the opponent was already up and guarded the kick.

Roots shot out of the dirt field and grabbed onto Eryne’s legs and left arm.

“Water lance!”  A spray of sharp water attacked the opponents who had conjured the roots and bound Eryne.

But the spell was a little too late, and the opening gave their foe an opportunity to throw a punch back at Eryne, squaring him in the chest.

*UAH!* Eryne grunted as the opponent charged him to the ground after the punch and started blasting him with air magic, keeping him down.

“I’m going in. Keep Zirl off of Eryne before he passes out.” Kaidus instructed his teammate as he ran in, avoiding incoming spells and missiles headed their way.

“Alright!” The partner yelled back.

Dashing toward their opponents, Kaidus enhanced his small body with mana. “Earth Grave!” his partner shouted from behind. Eryne’s whole body was sucked into the ground. The spell was a capture skill, but in this situation, it would protect Eryne in his downed state.

Closing in on the opponents, a small dagger of flame materialized in his hand, and Kaidus threw the weapon.  

His opponents saw the projectile and attempted to shoot it down, but was unable to.

The spectators gasp as they watched the flaming dagger sail through the air, heading toward one of the three participants. It was surely to impale one of them. The combat master started invoking a shield.

Like lightning, Kaidus materialized before the impact. His hands on the handle of the fiery weapon, his hair streaking silver briefly before quickly turning black again.

Having used ‘Sonis’ to close the distance, he blasted the opponent with a wall of mud, knocking the opposing student down. With a thought, he hardened the thick mud to restrain the opponent on the ground.

Two roots shot forth to restrain him, but with a quick slash of the dagger, the roots burned up. With a swift dash, he closed in on the second opponent. *WHOOOSH* a powerful wind blew at him as he approached, threatening to knock him off his feet. “Earth wall!” his partner yelled out, making a wall to shield him.

Within seconds, *BAM!* the wall cracked, and through it, a fist came flying. Using wind and earth magic, Zirl had broken through the wall. Kaidus saw his chance and quickly reformed the wall, catching Zirl in it. With his own earth magic, he sunk both Zirl and the wall into the ground.

As he was getting ready to take down the last opponent, his partner’s earth grave opened up and Eryne came out.

“I ALMOST DIED DOWN THERE!” Eryne yelled. After taking a second to grasp what was going on, instead of complaining further, he charged the remaining opponent.

The practice had become a one-sided match once he joined the fight.
Having finished, he stepped out of the arena to a drastic change in his fellow students. Everyone was looking at him differently, their eyes filled with awe and veneration at what they had just witnessed. No one was complaining now.

Naught about his lack of skills, why he is in the council, and not a mention about being a child. Even the complaints about why a first year is in the advance course was shut off completely.

They wanted proof of his abilities, and he had given them a glimpse of it.

 

—

 

At the eatery, he was having a meal before heading home.

“Mind if we join you?” A voice called out to him.

Looking up, a beautiful girl with emerald hair and eyes was looking at him while another hid behind her.

“Of course not, please go ahead.” Kaidus replied back to Prim. A look of surprise on his face. The three ate in silence until he finished his meal, and was about to leave.

“I’m very sorry…” Prim finally spoke, standing up from her seat, “Without Jorva and Lisin, I’ve had plenty of time to reflect on my actions, and about what you said. Thinking about it, I was jealous… with my lineage, I had believed myself a skillful mage easily capable of surpassing others. Yet there you were, someone far beyond my reach, rising even faster than I could ever hope to. I was angry at my own lack of strength, so I responded poorly, intending to humiliate you.” Prim lowered her head. “All to give myself a sense of superiority, and to feed my vanity.”

Another surprise. He had not expected to talk to Prim ever again, but here she was, giving him a formal apology.

“I know that a mere apology would be unable to compensate for our actions, but I am very sorry for what we’ve done.” Prim gave him a low apologetic bow.

To the side, Lisin also stood up and gave an apologetic bow. She had been silent the whole time and unwilling to look at him.

“Thank you. I too apologize for my childish behavior, and any grief it may have caused.” Kaidus gave a curt bow back. “If you will please excuse me, I must be on my way before it gets any later.”

“Thank you…” Prim replied as he left.