In his study, an old bald man quietly perused a letter recently delivered to him by an assistant. His face was a stoic mask, but his emotions were in turmoil.

“Sixty-seven dead. Fifteen survivors… and a whole village razed to the ground…” Headmaster Nylen voiced out loud, laying back on his chair.

The letter was a copy of a report from a reconnaissance party of the 10^th ward Mystiks Guild, informing of a village in Southeastern Darsus that was burnt to the ground and its populace slaughtered.

The report noted that a young boy—one of the survivors—saw a group of people entering the town earlier that afternoon on the day of the massacre, going to the village elder’s hut to talk. The report also stated that many of the survivors claimed to hear chanting and seeing fire erupting out of thin air like magic.

“Tal’hrus…” He silently muttered.
He had no definitive proof about who the culprits were, but from the savagery and merciless killings, he could only arrive at the same conclusion no matter how many times he thought about it.

The unknown silence that had pervaded for the past four years was finally broken, and the dreadful group had possibly returned.

Setting the report on the desk, Headmaster Nylen got up and moved to the window.

It was the beginning of Guso the second turn, and his academy was once again filling up with students.
Looking outside, he could spot the figures of future potentials walking about the academy grounds. Young men and women who would one day lead and serve the country.

He silently stood by the window, mulling over the large number of deaths, feeling angry at himself for having been complacent for the past years.

“Will you never stop, old friend?” He asked, trying to come up with an answer.

‘You are nothing, but a fool.’ A voice whispered back in his head, almost as clear as the day he heard them.
Words from a lifetime ago.

–

His white and red Mystiks guild clothes were torn, and his pant leggings had been burnt off. Two shards of ice were lodged in his right thigh, and his face was covered in small shallow cuts. There was a ringing in his head and he could barely feel his right arm as he pressed it against a large gash on his side.

In pain but not willing to give in, he stood up. On the ground around him were three of his comrades and a man whom they had all called brother.

The other three were dead. Their lifeblood had already spilled out and tainted the ground around them.

The fourth man on the other hand, was still breathing. Blood was seeping out of the man’s shoulder and his right leg had been twisted oddly. His clothes were also torn, dirty, and the man looked to have also taken a brutal beating.

“*Ha* kuhh… D-do it… *haah*” The man took deep breaths while glaring up at him with two pale eyes.

He gritted his teeth. With an incantation, his mana drew on the earth and the ground rose up. Coiling itself around his left arm, it hardened and sharpened into an earth spear. “Why Loryl!?” His vision started to blur. “Why…?”

“Do it! *cough cough!*” The man shouted.

He gritted his teeth as tears rolled down his face. Looking at the man who had been a brother to him all his life, “UWAAAAH!!” He thrust the earth spear into the ground, unable take the man’s life.

“*Haaaa* I… knew it…” The man replied triumphantly, lying there half dead.

“My- all my brothers died here today… From this moment forth, we are nothing but strangers.” He spoke as tears rolled down his face. “I pray I never see you again.” He dissolved the spear that was in his hand.

“Hah..Hahaha!… Coward! *Haaah*… you… you were always weak, Nylen… you… you are nothing, but a fool…”

–

He sighed, regretting his decision that day.

If he had strengthened his resolve and gotten rid of his emotions, he could have saved his friend from becoming the monster that had taken over as the head of Tal’hrus.

Although many believed the criminal organization Tal’hrus started after the war half a century ago, he and many in the Mystiks guild knew better. The organization had merely been brought into the open after the war. Its dark history was unknown, but one thing they could be sure of was that the organization was responsible for most of the wars in the past two hundred years.

He too had been ignorant of them. It was only two years before the war began that he learned of the organization. But by then, it was too late as they had already recruited his closest friend, and the most powerful mage amongst their brotherhood of five. The result of the betrayal was the death of two high ranking captains in the Mystiks guild, and three of his sworn brothers.

Ever since then, he had fought, trying to right his mistakes only to end up losing those he loved in the process. He had grown old without making a dent into the leviathan that was Tal’hrus. Every agent he caught, every conspiracy he unraveled, another took its place.

Nylen walked back to his desk and sat down.
He knew he was too old to be gallivanting around hunting rogue mages or trying to save those out of his reach. Yet, he wasn’t about to give up.

“Why now?” He asked himself, wondering about the sudden resurgence of Tal’hrus.
Taking out a piece of paper, he began writing down instructions on how to proceed with the new problem.

‘Someone forced them out of Darsus before…’ He mused and a curious smile crept onto his face before he even took notice, halting his hand.

His search for the mysterious party that devastated the organization years ago had been futile, but his thoughts quickly went back to the only other Malizur within Darsus: a woman seventeen years his junior and known as ‘Rhasula’ for her mastery of the Shadow Element.

Yet the woman had denied any involvement and he himself could not for the life of him see the woman going out of her way to bother with Tal’hrus or care about the plight of the people.

His thoughts settled onto someone else entirely. Someone that knew of the organization, had come into contact with them, and had the overwhelming strength to oppose them. He could only think of one other person.

He recalled the bizarre coincidence from years ago that coincided with the boy’s absence from school, and his lack of security after having been marked by the dangerous organization.

The boy had also denied any involvement with Tal’hrus after they attempted to recruit him, but the situation around the boy was too mysterious.

He took out a new piece of paper and began drafting a different set of instructions.

 

—

 

“Ngahh!! Ngaaahhh!! WAAAA!”
The sound of Lance’s wailing became louder and louder until it woke him up.

“Kai! Help!” Another voice followed after. “Kai!” Anise was holding their baby brother and shouting at him with a distraught voice as she came into the room. “Help!” The young girl pleaded again, holding the baby awkwardly.

He quickly got out of bed and took Lance off her hands. “Where’s mother and father?” He asked with a tired yawn.

“Momma is cooking and daddy left already.” His sister replied, flopping onto his bed with an over exaggerated show of exhaustion.

Even in his arms, the baby continued to cry. “Lance Zakrus Paltos. If you keep this up, we’re going to have to change your middle name.” He warned, looking into his brother’s beady eyes.
The baby began crying even harder.
“Did he just wake up?” He enquired, looked at Anise.

“Uh-huh.”

“He’s probably hungry. Let’s take him to mother.”

With Adalina feeding Lance in the living room, they were tasked with cleaning the kitchen and setting up the table.

“Anise.” Kaidus called out to his sister as he watched her wiping the kitchen table.
A turn had passed ever since he made his decision, but he could never find the right time to tell them.

“Hm?” Two inquisitive brown eyes peered back at him.

“… Never mind.” He gave her a smile and continued to ladle soup into a large bowl.

“Hehehe. You’re weird.” The little girl giggled and continued wiping the table. “Oh! Did you know that it’s going to be Sylvie’s birthday soon?” She added excitedly.

“Really?” He knew Sylvia’s birthday was in Guso, but had never outright asked her about it.

“Yep!”

“Anise. Do you like Sylvia?” He questioned as he brought the bowl of soup over to the table.

“Uh-huh.” She then made a devious grin. “Kai. Do you like Sylvie?”

He stopped and looked at his sister. The girl was studying him curiously. “I do.” He replied as he set the bowl down on the table.
Ever since his return, he had grown quite fond of Sylvia. Learning more about her from Anise and the girl herself, hearing about what she’d done for his family while he was away from Adalina, and seeing her always trying her hardest in everything she does. There was no reason to dislike the girl. Ever since that day he heard her humming in the library, being around her had started to feel normal, and she was even talking to him more easily.  

“Hehehe. It’s a secret, but Sylvie likes you too. Lots.” Anise was grinning happily. “But I like Kai the most!” She suddenly clung onto his arm

“I like Anise the most too.” He smiled and gently pat her head. As they have yet to complete their task, “Can you get the plates while I bring out the roast?” He instructed the endearing girl and she quickly complied.

 

…

 

In his room, Kaidus was copying a rough map of Malpaars from a book onto a large piece of paper.
The book was more of a journal about a traveler’s journey and adventures in Malpaars. Although it was an old book, the details were magnificent and listed quite a number of landmarks that would have stood the test of time. There were even sketches of various plants and animals native to Malpaars in the journal, and successive drawings of how the traveler saw the continent after every ten pages or so, with minute changes here and there.

He had borrowed the journal from the 3^rd ward central library, and had been flipping back and forth between the pages, trying to get a conclusive image of Malpaars’ true shape. The crude map had taken him most of the previous night along with his morning after breakfast and afternoon to draw, and it was quite close to being done.

Along with the map, most of his preparations were done. He had a large sum of money hidden in his dresser that would be used to pay for a ship and anything else required to get to his destination. His three years with the mercenary had not been wasted, and he knew how to sustain himself without being conspicuous.

Every passing day brought him one step closer to the day of departure, and one step further away from his family.

 

—

 

Adalina could feel something was wrong.
Her son had felt distant lately, and she didn’t know what to make of it. He was still her mature and responsible son, but for the past turn, Kaidus had been quieter than usual.

Ever since the beginning of the year, there were times she caught him just staring blankly with a solemn expression on his face, as if in deep and troubled thoughts. Other times, she would see him watching over his younger siblings with a disheartened look as if filled with regret.

She had watched the boy grow from the silent child she thought to be a mute, into a bright young man with the world at his fingertips. Yet whenever she looked at him, there was always the sinking feeling that their time together would eventually end. That one day he would leave her side and walk a path of his own choosing. Marry a girl of his choice, and raise his family in a world far away from her, as she had done to her parents.

All of her children gave her strength, but he had been the one who was beside her during the lowest points in her life, ever watchful and pushing her forward.

“Ouch!” She dropped the knife and pulled back her hand as blood began oozing out of her index finger.

“Mother?” Her son’s voice called out from the living room. She could hear his footsteps coming closer. “Mother, are you okay?” Kaidus questioned as he entered the kitchen.

“I am. Just cut myself.” She smiled, seeing his worried face and held up her finger. She couldn’t help but chuckle at the mistake as it’s been at least half a decade since she last injured herself while cooking.

“Is everything alright? It’s not like you to cut yourself.” He replied, taking her hand in his.
In an instant, the throbbing pain from her finger was gone.

She quickly noticed that her son’s hands had grown larger and were calloused from the years of sword training. Yet, she could still feel his gentle strength as he held her hand and healed it. “Thank you, but everything is fine.” She replied, embracing her son.

“Mother?”

“Don’t worry about me.” Adalina responded, making up her mind. “Is everything alright with you?” She returned his question.

“…” Her son was silent, but through their contact, she could feel something was wrong.

“Kaidus. What’s been worrying you? And don’t say nothing, because I know there is definitely something troubling you. Won’t you tell me?” She pleaded.

“I…”

She released the embrace and stared into his dark eyes. “You?”

“I’ve been thinking of journeying to Malpaars.” He replied back. His voice was as calm as ever.

“A journey? And to Malpaars?” She was petrified. ‘Now?’ The word got caught in her thoughts.

“I’ve been meaning to tell you all, but I just got back and didn’t know how to. It’s what’s been troubling me.”

“But why? And why Malpaars?”

“I did some research about drakalls during my year at the academy and I want to learn more about them. It was why I wanted to join the mercenaries. Everything was to prepare myself for the journey. I also wish to see the outside world for myself, not just Darsus, but all of the seven continents. I want to observe with my own eyes its many wonders. To witness the majesty of the Derzul’s floating castles, to gape at Araun’s Claws, and to comprehend the ever-swirling tides of the Abyssal Maws. To explore the unknown and experience cultures and lands that I’ve spent my whole life reading about.” The boy replied, staring back at her with eyes filled with resolve and curiosity.

“You can’t!” Before she could say anything, her daughter’s voice bellowed through the room. Anise quickly ran over and wrapped her arms around Kaidus. “You can’t leave Kai! You can’t!” Anise began to tear up. “You just got back! You promished!”

“Darling…” Adalina watched as tears poured out of her baby’s eyes. She understood how the girl felt.
In her mind, Kaidus was what held the family together. He was her eldest, and her strength. Troyle loved him dearly, and her little girl revered him, always trying to imitate him in whatever she could.
To lose her son again so soon after three long years, it was too cruel.

“Anise. Listen t-” The boy attempted to say something.

“NO! You can’t leave! I won’t let you!” Anise shouted.

“I’m not leaving yet.”

“Hu-?” Anise stopped and gave puzzled look. Part angry, part sad, and all surprised.

“?” Also surprised, Adalina looked at her son.

“I’m planning to leave in Fulta. It’s still a long ways away.”

“NO!” Anise cried out again.

Her heart sunk even further upon hearing when he would be leaving. He had grown up too fast, and was leaving them too early. Normal children would still be attending school, playing with their friends, and learning about love.

But she knew he wasn’t normal. She had always known.

Malpaars was far, and if he was to travel the world like he said, it could be years, even a decade before they see each other again. She wanted to tell him to stay, but she knew he had already made up his mind. There was nothing she could do but think about how to make the most of their time together.

 

—

 

“Where’s Anise?” Troyle questioned as he got home.
His daughter was usually the first to greet him yet he had already removed his swords and boots, and she was nowhere to be seen.

“In her room.” Adalina replied, trying to give him a smile.

“What’s wrong?” He investigated, feeling that the atmosphere was different and seeing that his wife’s commonly cheerful demeanor had all but waned.

 

…

 

Troyle entered his son’s room. The boy was currently hunched over his desk and scribbling something. “What’re you doing there?”

“Father. Just a little side project.” The boy replied, turning to look at him before going back to whatever he was doing.

“Looks like a map. I’m guessing Malpaars.” He stated, making it quite obvious that he knew.

“… So mother has told you.”

“Of course, she told me. Were you ever planning to let us know?” He took a seat on the bed.

“I was. I just didn’t know how or when.” Kaidus replied with a sullen voice and stopped drawing.

… They sat in silence for a brief awkward moment.

“… You know, I too was a young man filled with wanderlust.” Troyle spoke up. “It was why I became a mercenary in the first place. Had I not, who knows what I would be doing now. Maybe married to someone else and living an entirely different life. I may even be the leader of a village somewhere or a captain of the guards there, and living cozily without worrying about my life or the life of a noble. Or maybe I’d have become a bandit somewhere, or dead, seeing how the only thing I’m good for is fighting.” He grinned.

“Father?”

“But I am none of those. I made my choice, I stuck with it, and the consequences brought me here. Sure, it wasn’t all fine and dandy and the road here was filled with ups and downs, but I am happy where those choices took me. I have a loving wife who bore me two great sons, and a dazzling daughter who I would go to the ends of the world for. If I was to go back and do everything over again, I wouldn’t change a single thing,” he paused. “Well, maybe a few minor changes here and there.” He grinned again, looking at his son who was staring back in confusion.
“I will not tell you that you are too young, or that you should wait until you are older. Our sparring sessions have shown me enough. You are strong. If you wish to go and explore the world, I will not stop you. I know you will be fine. I will even try and help your mother and sister to understand. But if… Sorry, I’m getting a little off topic from my original thoughts. I guess what I’m trying to say is, should you choose to do something, don’t regret it later.” He smiled and got up.
“Also, make up with your sister before dinner please. I know she’s mad at you, but I also know that you are the best at cheering her up.”
He stood up and walked to the door before turning back around. “How long do you think you will be gone anyways?”

“A year or two maybe? Three at the most? I was planning to go to Malpaars first, then come back before heading to the others.”

“Hahahaha. Your mother was worried you’d be gone forever. I guess she’ll be glad to hear about that.”

“Father.”

“Hmm?” He replied, seeing the boy staring back at him.

“Thanks.”

His mouth curved upward into a warm smile. “You were always different from the other kids. Your mother and I both knew it was only a matter of time until you left us. Don’t worry about it.” He replied, putting up a strong fatherly front and leaving the room.

Deep inside, he was extremely proud of the boy. His wife had borne him a son beyond his expectations, a son capable of walking in his footsteps and surpassing him in every aspect. There was nothing more a father would wish for. There was no use in holding the child back, coveting him and hiding him from the world.

 

—

 

“Go away. I hate you…” His sister spoke in a muffled voice from the bed. Her face was buried in a pillow on her knees, and she had draped her blanket over her head and body.

“Don’t say that.” Kaidus replied, moving over to sit beside his sister on the bed.  

“But you promised!” Anise cried out. Her tone of voice was changing into that of a whimper.

“I did, and I am keeping it. Am I not here with you now? Did I not come back because I promised I would?” He gave her a hug, trying to appease her.

“B-but you’re leaving again…” She muttered as he pulled her into his embrace.

“I won’t be gone long, and I’ll be back before you know it. You don’t need me always around you, do you? You’re already a big girl.” He replied, brushing away her hair from her face. “You have mother, father, Lance, Sylvia, and the whole Varath family with you. If you also go to school, I’m sure you’ll make some new friends and forget about me.” He smiled, giving her a kiss on the forehead.

“But I don’t want them… I want to stay with Kai…” She sniffed.

“I’m sorry.” He hugged her to his chest. “I know it’s a little early, but if you ever want to talk to me,” He pulled out a smooth silver ring from his pocket and handed it to Anise. “Tell Hasen, and you’ll be able to talk to me through this.”

It was a communication ring, created by using the mirror shard he acquired from Zavon years ago.

“Hehehe do you think Sylvie is going to find me here?” She whispered as low as she could.

Her knees were huddled against her small body and she took slow silent breaths while quietly listening to her surroundings. With a big grin on her face, she clasped a small black ring in her hands.
Sitting inside a wardrobe in one of the empty guest rooms of the Varath manor was Anise.

… Silence answered her.

She knew the ring could talk.
She had heard it greet them before at her brother’s behest, but had never gotten it to answer her. Although it has been with her for almost four years, it was always silent like a normal ring. No matter how much she talked to it or try to barter with it by giving it treats or toys, the ring never made any sound.
Yet such treatment never bothered her.
Whenever she spoke to it, it always felt as if she was talking to her beloved brother and it would calm her down or cheer her up. It was a treasured gift from him that would protect her, and she had promised to keep it with her at all times.

“You’ll tell me if Sylvie gets close right?” She whispered once more.

Sitting quietly, she started hearing footsteps rushing down the corridor towards the guest rooms. It was unlike her big sister Sylvia to be making such a ruckus whenever they were playing.
The sound of doors opening and Sylvia’s voice reached her ears. She ducked her head into her knees as if such actions would help to conceal her further.

Her smile brightened as Sylvia’s voice got closer.
She’d known the older girl for as long as she could remember, and like her big brother, Sylvia was a warm and loving person. The older girl had taught her about many things over the past couple years and had become irreplaceable as an older sister.

Because she didn’t want to go to school, her mother had been teaching her numbers and writing at home, but it was really Sylvia who was her first teacher. She’d learned how to add, subtract, and how to multiply and divide small numbers through a lot of the games that they play by constantly asking the older girl questions. Reading on the other hand had never really been a problem for her, and she was able to take up writing quite easily as well. It was mostly thanks to the older girl that she was able to impress her mother so much.

The door to the room opened. “Anise? Are you in here?” Sylvia’s voice called out.

She held her breath, trying not to laugh or breathe in case it gave her away.

“Your father and brother are back.”

“Really!?” The wardrobe slammed open and she quickly bounded out of the enclosed container with a big grin on her face.

“Found you.” Sylvia smiled and tagged her.

“Sylvia! No fair!” She pouted, seeing that she’d been tricked.

“Just kidding.” The older girl grinned. “They really are home. Come on.” Sylvia held out a hand and she hastily took it.

They arrived at the manor foyer as large chunks of meat were being carried into the kitchen.
She spotted her mother holding her younger brother, Lady Reanne, and a couple of the servants, all standing together away from the door. They were observing and discussing about which dishes to make with what animal. Not seeing her brother, she ran toward the window to look outside. A large wagon was out there and, on the wagon, her brother was helping to unload.
She grinned and patiently went to stand by her mother to await him.

“Has everything been prepared?” Sylvia’s father questioned as he entered the house.

“Of course. Herbs, spices, wine, plants and tubers for soup or any kind of dishes. Freshly procured earlier today and waiting for you all to return.” Sylvia’s mother, Lady Reanne replied.

“Hello Esen, glad to see you here. Please tell the cooks to not hold back and use as much of the meat as they can. Tonight is a celebratory feast for everyone so please do enjoy yourself once you and your crew are done.” The lord told an older man who was standing with them.

“Yes, my lord.” The man obeyed and swiftly left for the kitchen.

Anise watched as more orders were given by Sylvia’s father to the other servants. Instructions about getting more wine, juice, extra tables and chairs from the storage room, and readying the guest quarters to accommodate more people for the night.

As the trickle of items being carried into the house diminished, her brother entered the house. Without waiting for him to walk over to them, she quickly dashed over to him and threw her arms around him. “Kai!”

“Young lady, behave yourself.” Her mother promptly scolded.

She returned a bashful grin before grabbing onto her brother’s arm. “Kai, can you play with us?”

 

—

 

As the day darkened, the Varath manor came alive as guests arrived for the celebration.

Freshly cooked food and chilled drinks were already out.
It was all on top of a long table in the center of the dining hall along with four other tables to seat the guests.
Stew, roasts, soup, and baked birds with stuffing slathered in spices were spread out evenly along with sweet treats, dishes with delectable dipping sauces, and sweetened juice for the children. Situated in the middle of the table, six large dishes of oriv deer and rakkau drew the attention of the hungry guests.

Lord Varath had hired a different staff for the night to cater and clean up after them, allowing the house servants and their families to indulge themselves in the celebration.

The backyard was lit with plenty of light apparatuses for the guests to relax and socialize even though it was getting dark. Many children quickly gravitated to the outside to get away from their parents and to enjoy the company of other youngsters.

 

—

 

“Hey! Are you him?” A boy asked with an entitled tone.

Two young boys barely older than Anise were in front of him as he was standing beside Troyle and greeting the guests. “Am I who?” Kaidus replied, unsure of who they were asking about.

“You know. The champion of the arms competitions!” The boy replied with a big smile and revealing a missing front tooth.

“I am… Why?” Kaidus returned a quizzical smile.

“See, I told you! He looks just like when we saw him that time.” The young boy happily expressed to his friend.

“C-can you teach me how to fight with two swords?” The other boy questioned with dazzled eyes, looking up at Kaidus.

“Cyrin! We were supposed to ask together!” The boy with a missing tooth cried out.

“May I ask who you both are?”

“I’m Burk. He’s Cyrin. Our fathers work for the lord of his place!” The boy replied proudly.

“Burk and Cyrin?” Troyle interrupted, bending down to take a closer look at the two of them. “Are you two Rey and Lenard’s sons?”

“Mister. Do you know my father?” The other boy questioned, giving a puzzled face.

“Of course. They’re my friends.” Troyle grinned. “Why do you two want to learn how to fight? And why not just ask your fathers? They’re both very strong. I made sure of it myself.”

“But not as strong as the- mmm! Mnnn!!” a hand reached out from behind and pinched the boy’s mouth together.

“I was wondering where you went. Your mother’s looking for you.” A man a few years younger than Troyle easily picked up the jaunty young boy. “Sorry guys. I’ll get them out of your way.”

“Father! That hurts!”

“Cyrin, your mother wants to know if you are hungry. Come and let’s go let your parents know.” The man told the second boy. “Sorry Kaidus. They saw your matches during the competition and have wanted to meet you ever since.” The man gave a smile and walked off with his son and the other boy.

“But father! He was about to take us as his students!” The boy protested as he was carried away.

With a smile on his face, Kaidus looked on quietly as the boys were dragged away. Troyle began laughing.

After they finished greeting most of the guests, Kaidus made his way to the dining hall where a large number of people had already gathered and were eating and drinking while they mingled. He glanced around for his mother and Anise, but could not spot them.

Moving toward the center table to get something to eat, he heard laughter coming from a cluster of women sitting at the end of one of the dining table, near a corner of the hall. Some were standing while others sat, and his eyes fell upon a young girl in their midst. Wearing a beautiful sky-blue dress with long black sleeves and dark floral patterns, her dark blue hair had been braided and was draped around her shoulder to her front. On her wrists were two bracelets that were glittering and complementing her dark sleeves warmly. She stood beside her mother and sister, joyously conversing with the women around them.

Although normally shy and always giving off a nervous vibe whenever they talked, Sylvia was chatting with those around her very naturally. He couldn’t help but smile, seeing her talking and laughing so merrily. Scanning the group, he noticed that Adalina and Anise were also with them along with Lance, who was sleeping soundly in the arms of an unknown woman.

Taking another look around the room, Lord Varath was entertaining a few of the men and their wives with a story about the hunting trip.
He also spotted Larant sitting at one of the tables talking with two young ladies who sat across from him. The girls were giggling and smiling.

As he stood there looking at many of the unfamiliar faces, he sensed a number of people taking curious glances at him. Troyle had introduced him multiple times earlier, but undoubtedly, many still remembered him from the competition.

Not wanting to intrude on the others or congest the dining hall any more than it already was, Kaidus got himself a plate of food and exited the hall.

 

…

 

On top of the Varath manor away from everything else, he silently ate his food as he watched and listened to the playful children in the backyard.

He felt the breeze as Zion zipped around him, frolicking in the darkness.
He watched as a young girl scolded a boy twice her size for running into her friend, and instead of retaliating, the older boy apologized.
He saw kids younger than Anise playing tag, talking, a few playing in the dirt around the light posts, and some of the older children watching their younger siblings.
He caught sight of the two young boys who were asking about him earlier. They too were playing in the yard with a couple of kids their age.

He smiled, seeing a young lady possibly a year or two older than himself feeding a little boy. The boy would take a spoonful of food in his mouth and go play then come back and get another spoonful before running off again. The young lady patiently watched and held the plate as her little brother ran around.

Watching the blissful children playing without a worry in the world, Kaidus calmly zoned out all sounds and closed his mind, focusing his thoughts on his family.

They were not filthy rich like those in the wealthy Dryva district, but money had stopped being an issue for them ever since Troyle was employed by the lord.
Their life in Ferrent was a pleasant one and the thought of all the children currently playing around in the yard were living like them, he couldn’t help but admit to how magnificent the city was. His younger siblings would be able to grow up without any trouble here, and his parents also had many friends whom they could rely on.
The city itself was a prosperous one with its own standing army of mages, guards, and knights that could easily protect it should anything happen.

He evaluated the three years he had been away and saw how little it had impacted his family. They would be able to carry on even if he was not there. “They will be fine.” Kaidus spoke the words out loud to reassure himself.

As he thought about their livelihood, he solemnly reconsidered his plans. ‘I already have most of what I need. The sooner I begin, the sooner I will be able to return…’ He silently pondered, thinking about what to do. ‘Half a year.’ He concluded.

There was no use in postponing it until his 15^th birthday. Although his body has yet to grow into its full potential, his spirits have already returned to him. Even with only three of them with him, an overgrown drakall should be no problem.
The other issue was Tal’hrus, but if their strongest was like Zavon, then he should be able to confront them at his own leisure.
Having made up his mind, all that was left was to let his parents know.

He quietly sat on the rooftop and watched the children in the yard as he came to terms with his decision. Descending to a balcony on the second floor, he reentered the manor and returned to the celebration.

 

—

 

“Phew.” Sylvia breathed a breath of relief as she took off her evening dress and slipped on a nightgown before entering her bed.
The long day was finally at an end, and many of the guests had already left. The few that accepted her father’s offer to stay the night were also already in their own room in the guest quarters.

She was tired and exhausted.
Ever since evening, she had been on her best behavior and conducted herself as best she could. She had helped her mother and sister to entertain the women, greeted and introduced herself whenever she saw a new face—as befitting a member of the house—and conversed with many of the girls her age. Many of them were surprised to learn that she knew how to do housework and that she could even cook and do a little bit of gardening.

Although hosting large gatherings were normal for them, it was a first for such an event where only those working for her family was invited. Thankfully unlike some of the other gatherings, the evening had gone by without trouble and was also very eventful. Her father had even handed out small gifts as the night’s festivities came to an end.

She had no idea what suddenly spurred him, but her father had been planning it even before the arrival of the New Year. She wasn’t sure if it was because of Larant’s progression at the academy, the lucrative trade with the many towns and villages around Ferrent, or if he was merely in a generous mood.
Wondering about the reasons, her mind began fantasizing of an agreement between two men and their children, and a promise of unification between two houses. ‘…’ She quickly shook her head to erase such embarrassing delusions and hid herself under her blanket—as if the boy who was sleeping in one of the guest room could see and hear her thoughts.

She quickly moved her mind toward the girls she’d met.
“Karen, Joslin, Aubrey, Dalane, and Carise.” She recalled the five girls who she talked to and got along with earlier.
“Karen and Dalane has black hair. Dalane is taller than Karen. Carise has curly brown hair and blue eyes, Aubrey is my age and helps at her grandma’s shop, Joslin is the oldest and has a… a male friend.”

She silently repeated their names once more in her head, trying to commit them to memory in case she ever met them again. She started working backwards and trying to recall who their parents were, and which of them worked for her family.

Not only did she get a better understanding of those she saw every day, she saw that each of them had a family and loved ones that supported them. She had noticed that all of their guards were married, and many of the maids and servants also had families of their own.

“It is our bond with our friends and loved ones that grounds us and pushes us forward. A man who has someone waiting for him will work twice as hard to return home even if he is staring death in the eyes.”
Her father had said with a grin on his face after she pointed out that all the guards had wives and children.

‘I wonder if he is the same…’ She pictured the young boy with deep black hair and wondered if his bond with his family was why he was so strong.
Though it wasn’t a topic during the party, she happened to hear a few of the guards talking about encountering a drakall during their hunt. Asking her father about it, he told her what he could remember and even showed her three beautiful red scales as proof.

Twice the boy has saved her father’s life, yet not a word of conceit or a demand of reward ever came out of his mouth.

She shook her head again as her thoughts circled back around to him. Shutting her eyes, Sylvia began to hum Lady by the Bay with the hopes of lulling herself to sleep.

“Wait.” Kaidus whispered, stopping his father and pointing toward a large tree.

Directly ahead of them, obscured by vines and foliage and camouflaged against the trunk of a tree, was a striped rakkau. The large cat had found itself a nice sunspot that penetrated the forest canopy and was lazing comfortably at the base of the tree.

“Ooh. It looks like a big one.” Troyle grinned, seeing the beast. “You spotted it. What do you want to do?”

“I’ll circle around to see if I can get a clear shot. If I can’t take it down, it’s all up to you, father.” Kaidus replied.
With a short bow in hand, he kept his stance low and moved stealthily through the dense undergrowth. Getting as close as he could without alerting the prey, he nocked an arrow and drew. Stabilizing his breathing to steady himself, he aimed for the neck. *Zwoosh!* the arrow pierced through the air, flying toward its mark.

With a loud growl, the cat instantly sprung up and began running opposite his direction. His arrow had missed and instead of the neck, had hit the beast’s shoulder. Kaidus quickly let loose another arrow.

The cat growled again as the second arrowed hit its leg from behind, sending it tumbling to the ground. It quickly got up and was about to pounce away but before it could vanish into the forest thicket, Troyle was already upon it.

With a single smooth motion, Troyle cleanly sliced off the cat’s head. “Good work!” Troyle called out with a smile.

“I need more practice…” Kaidus made a disappointed reply, looking at the arrow that was lodged into the cat’s shoulder. If he hadn’t missed, there would have been no need for the second shot nor Troyle’s assist.
He could have used magic to control the arrow or immobilize the creature, but such was against the teachings of the person who trained him in the bow.

‘Hunting is a sacred relationship between a man, his bow, and his next meal. Work hard, and you will always be rewarded. The convenience of magic has no business in such a delicate balance.’ He recalled the 8^th chair of the Droxxon Mercenary, his archery teacher nagging him about it. It was meant more as a joke because the man could not use magic, but the words had stuck with him.

The rakkau’s gray and black fur around its neck was dyed red with blood, and a head filled with long sharp teeth sat gaping on the forest floor. Looking at the headless beast, it was larger than he had thought. With its legs out and not curled up, the cat was almost as big as he is.

“A good hunt for the morning. Grab the head and the other game I left over there and let’s head back for some lunch.” Troyle instructed, tying the beast’s legs together.

Kaidus picked up the rakkau head and walked to where they had split up. A morning of hunting had acquired them a bundle of foraging critters and a few frost birds, barely enough for him to carry with one hand.

 

—

 

Their campsite was in a small clearing within the forest that had been used by hunters for years. The camp consisted of three tents accommodating four people each, a fire pit at the center, and a wagon to close off the square perimeter. The materials for the tents had been brought from home, along with their weapons, and two troughs with plenty of feed for the horses that were currently tied to the trees.

“Looks like a good haul.” The three guards who opted to stay and watch the camp happily greeted them.

“Sure was. Didn’t think we’d be returning so early.” Troyle replied, revealing the large rakkau he was lugging on his shoulder before setting it on the ground.

“See! This is exactly why I’d rather sit here and tend to the fire.” One of the guard’s exclaimed excitedly after seeing the large cat.  

“Fortunately for us, we got the jump on it. Took two arrows from Kaidus and a swing from my sword.” Troyle cracked a triumphant smile.

“Better the two of you than the others.” Another of the guards added with a wide grin.

Troyle took out a knife and began gutting the rakkau. “Any words from the lord’s group or the others?”

“Not yet. You two are the first to return.” The guards replied.
One of them moved to help Troyle with the rakkau while the other two helped Kaidus with preparing the smaller animals.

Their group of eleven had split into four smaller groups. The three who were watching the camp, Troyle and Kaidus, Lord Varath and his son Larant along with a guard, and the last three guards to make up the final group.

Each team had left the camp in a different direction after breakfast to go looking for game.

…

With most of their bounty skinned then frozen with magic and stashed away in the wagon, the five of them were enjoying an early lunch while they waited for the other two groups to return.

“I wonder if the others are having any luck.” One of the guards voiced as they were sitting around the fire.

“We didn’t see any, but there were quite a few oriv tracks. If they can bring back something big like that, we should be set for the day.” Troyle replied as he bit into a roasted bird.

“That, and a couple of tranil rats.” Another of the guards chimed in.

“I’d rather they brought back a few foxes or wolves instead of deer or rats. Can’t remember the last time I ate a wolf.” The guard who was cooking added.

As the five of them ate, ‘Massssterrrr Sssomething Comessss.’

Kaidus sat up as a hissing voice suddenly alerted him. ‘What?’ he questioned back.

‘A Beasssst.’ Zion replied as the sound of triumphant laughter came through the forest.

A group of six came out of the forest and into the clearing. Lord Varath and Larant were at the front and each had a handful of critters while the guards in the back were all carrying something between the four of them.

“We’ve got a big one!” Lord Varath cheerfully yelled out to them.

As the four guards entered the camp, every pair of eyes fell on the large bloody snake they were carrying. Even with the guards spread apart by a good stride, the serpent’s length extended past the four of them with its two tails almost touching the ground.

“A golden twin tail constrictor? What is it doing out of its burrow already?” One of the guards looked at the serpent warily.

Although green in coloration, the serpent’s green scales were reflecting the afternoon sun, giving it an almost golden shimmer as the four guards set it down.

“Beats me. Damned thing ate my bird that I shot down and nearly got me too. Thank the four gods Kalien was within earshot and the young lord’s group heard us.” The man grimaced, pulling back his sleeves to reveal a bandaged arm where the serpent had sunk its fangs into him. “If not, I doubt I’d still be here.”

‘That?’ Kaidus thought back, questioning the wind spirit.
The serpent was not venomous, but one of such a size could have easily swallowed a man whole. It could easily pass for being the beast.

‘Nay. There Is Something Else. A Winged One. In The Sky.’ With a soft booming voice, Vishan replied instead.

Kaidus looked up and sure enough, there was something in the sky. A snake-like silhouette with three sets of wings was circling above them silently. ‘It can’t be.’ He thought as the silhouette started growing bigger. “Everyone! Cover your ears!” He shouted and they all looked at him. A few of them quickly followed his command while the rest gave him a look of confusion.

“KRAUOOOOA!” A piercing roar assaulted them as the beast descended.
The shockwave from the roar blasted their camp, shaking the surrounding trees and blowing their tents and wagon out of position. The surprise attack had instantly paralyzed the horses and stunned those who failed to cover their ears, throwing them to the ground. Those that promptly followed his directions were merely shocked and stunned by the powerful pressure.

 

—

 

The winged beast circled the clearing twice before it gracefully landed. Its three pairs of wings folded tightly along its side and back, and without arms or legs, the beast’s elongated body coiled together like a snake: poised to strike.

With his feet sunken into the earth up to his knees and a coat of mana protecting him, Kaidus stared at the giant serpent. It was a Hvaral, and its size made the golden twin tailed constrictor look insignificant. He had seen many drawings of Hvarals while researching drakalls, but being in front of such a creature, he could only stare in awe. Two golden eyes with red elliptical pupils gazed back at him as if it was surprised to see him still standing.

Two pointed horns protruded from the hvaral’s forehead, and a majestic black mane went from its head all the way to its first set of wings. Large translucent wings were folded and appeared black against a body of reddish yellow scales with a silver underbelly. The Hvaral’s three-pronged tail was swaying hypnotically as a gem glittered radiantly in the middle of it. Comparing its size to the golden twin tailed constrictor, the Hvaral towered over its ground dwelling cousin.

Opening its mouth, the giant serpent angrily hissed at Kaidus.

‘What’s a drakall doing this close to the capital? Surely the knights would have known if something like this was nesting around here.’ Kaidus pondered to himself. The snake-like drakalls were not known to hunt and kill men but in such a dire situation, he dared not let his guard down. “What is it you want?” He questioned, staring at the beast calmly. Drakalls were intelligent creatures, and it was the perfect chance to see if it could understand him.

“HISSS!” The Hvaral hissed again, jerking its head forward and snapping its jaws as if to test him. Kaidus stood his ground and quietly watched the giant serpent’s display.

“Ugh…” The sound of groaning and the movement of people broke the silence.

The drakall quickly twisted its head and looked at those who were standing up. Opening its mouth, it screeched and sent another shockwave through the atmosphere.

“Enough!” Kaidus commanded, and a tempest coiled itself around the Hvaral’s mouth, closing it before slamming the beast’s head to the ground.

The serpent hissed in surprise, lifting and shaking its head as if fighting to regain its posture.

“What in the…” A dazed Troyle got up to a frightening scene.
His son was quietly staring up against a monster. He knew his son was a formidable mage, but he also knew that Hvarals were extremely powerful drakalls, especially one as large as the current one. Taking a quick glance around, he saw a few of the men also getting up off the ground. Those who had failed to heed Kaidus’ warning were still unconscious.
Seeing the predicament they were in, he did not dare to move or make a sound.

Although the lord, Larant, and a few of the men were still on the ground having been too slow to react to his warning, Kaidus noticed his father and a couple people getting back up. One of the guards stumbled as he tried to stand and collapsed to the ground, breaking twigs and squashing leaves.

The Hvaral instantly turned its head toward the man’s direction before swerving its head back to focus on Kaidus. As if knowing who to be wary of, the creature quickly changed target and with a powerful beat of its wings, it easily propelled itself forward.

Kaidus quickly dashed to the side, putting himself between the giant serpent and whatever it was after. He hastily pulled off his hunting glove and with a thought, a deluge of dark liquid burst forth from a small metal ring on his finger.

Feziel obeyed. Instantly molding itself into two large arms of pure black metal, it grabbed the beast’s horns and wings before the beast could move past its master. With a powerful swing, it threw the serpent back against the trees before promptly returning to the ring.

The Hvaral quickly got up again and hissed angrily. Lifting itself off the ground with its powerful wings, it rose over the trees and glared down at Kaidus. “KRAUOOA!” It roared once more and dove.

As the Hvaral’s large body came hurling down at them with its mouth wide open, Kaidus quickly commanded Zion to pick up everyone and move them out of the way.
Standing his ground, ‘Gauntlet’ he willed, and Feziel obeyed. Once again, a dark liquid surged forth from his ring, encircling his right arm and transforming into a pitch-black gauntlet. Launching himself off the ground with earth magic, he flew straight at the diving drakall then used wind magic to push himself aside to evade the mouth. Focusing his mana, he enhanced his strength and with another aerial boost using wind magic, smashed his armored fist into the beast’s body.

The Hvaral roared in pain as its body convulsed from the force of the attack. Yet instead of falling down or recoiling and running away, it managed to keep itself airborne and bite at something on the ground. With powerful strokes of its wings, it took to the sky once more, flying away with the golden twin tailed constrictor.

“… Don’t tell me…” Dumbfounded, Kaidus couldn’t help but just watch.
Taking a moment to look at their ruined camp site, their tents were uprooted and thrown across the area. The wagon had fallen on its side but looked to be intact, and the horses were still out cold. Their lunch they had been eating were also strewn across the camp.
Something caught his eyes as he was scanning the area.
Near where the constrictor had been, something was shining on the ground. Walking over to it, he found three large glistening red scales, each the size of his palm. Two were cracked, but the last one was in perfect condition. They seem to have fallen off the Hvaral after his attack.
Although he was not trying to kill it, for his strengthened blow to only crack the hvaral’s scales, the beast was quite sturdy.

“Kaidus! Are you okay?!” Troyle shouted from the edge of the clearing.

“I’m fine!” He yelled back, picking up the three scales and pocketing them before running over to where Zion had deposited the group.
A cluster of unsteady and bruised men were looking at him with incredulity while a few others were sitting up with no idea about what had transpired.

 

…

 

“What in the world happened?” Lord Varath question, waking up in the middle of the devastated camp.

“We were robbed, my lord.” One off the guards answered with a sullen tone.

“Robbed? What happened? Is everyone alright?” The Lord quickly looked around to see the disheveled campsite before noticing. “What happened to the snake?!” He exclaimed, seeing that their prized catch was gone.

Going through the men to see if any of them had incurred any serious injury, Kaidus couldn’t help but laugh at the lord’s reaction.
After the Hvaral made its escape, a thought occurred to him. He realized that it wasn’t after him or their group at all but their snake, and the reason why it snapped at him was probably because he was in its way. The Hvaral had probably landed to feast on the snake, but had to change its plans once it saw resistance. He chuckled to himself, glad that he didn’t have to kill such a magnificent creature. 

Those who saw the latter half of the encounter filled in the others who were unconscious during the ordeal. They all knew that Kaidus was a powerful mage, and none of them dared to doubt that the young boy was capable of repelling a drakall. Many of the guards could still recall an incident years ago of the boy obliterating a pack of korgas, and his victory during the Arms competition was still fresh in their minds.

“That damned creature could have left us half!” The man who was bitten by the snake exclaimed gloomily after hearing about what happened.

“Be thankful it left us with our lives.” Another of the guards reminded them of their precarious situation.

“Well, it did leave something.” Kaidus grinned, taking out the three red scales from his pocket. Handing the scales to the disheartened man, he saw the man’s eyes light up.

“This… This is…”

“Scales from the Hvaral. How much do you reckon they’re worth?”

“I don’t know much about appraising exotic goods, but,” *Urgh!* the man tried to bend it to no avail. He tried biting it, but nothing happened. “This toughness and size… I’d say at least 100erns for the cracked ones and 150 for the flawless scale if sold to the blacksmith. I’m willing to bet he can forge something good out of this.” The man looked at Kaidus. “Are there any more?”

“No. I only found those three. Take it. Think of it as the beast’s compensation for taking the snake that bit you.” Kaidus replied with a grin.

The man looked around to the other guards before handing it back to Kaidus. “I can’t. You drove it off. It is rightfully yours. Not to mention, you healed my bite already.” The man smiled.

“Would you all mind if I took it?” Lord Varath interrupted. “Don’t worry. It won’t be sold for my own gains or anything.” He reassured.

“Of course not, my lord. If not for Larant and your assistance, we probably wouldn’t have been able to bring the snake down in the first place.”

All the guards who had a hand in the serpent’s subjugation unanimously agreed to the decision and the scales were given to the Lord.

“Thank you.” Taking the scales, Alzin Varath stowed them away in his coat. “Well then, how about we clean this place up and get back to hunting? Hahaha…”

With only birds and small animals, they decided to divide the group into two: one to go back and hunt for the duration of the evening while the other half stayed behind to reconstruct their camp.

The next morning, a weary but content band of hunters saddled their horses and began the grueling journey back to Ferrent. Within the wagon were two large wooden crates filled with large chunks of frozen meat and animals.

Amidst the chaos, he could see no sign of the boy.

From the cages came the screams of the women and children, as families shouted for one another. There were commands being issued by both defenders and attackers alike and the sound of metal clashing came from all around followed by the deathly wails of dying men. The open plain changed as their captors began casting magic onto the unknown attackers, burning and destroying the landscape.

Those around Biran scrambled about, dragging him along. “Stop! Stop pulling!” He shouted, bracing himself and jerking back on the chain—pulling a couple people down to the ground. His voice fell on deaf ears and those who fell quickly got up and went right back to panicking, trying to hide from what was happening.

A whip cracked, and someone screamed from nearby.
Biran spotted one of the captors behind him trying to subdue those who were trying to flee. He glimpsed a chance at escape. With a burst of strength, he charged their captor before the man could turn in his direction. Towing a few of the prisoners with him, some quickly understood what he was trying to do and started running with him, pulling others along.

With a hard tackle, the captor fell on the ground and Biran jumped on top of the man along with the others.
Snatching a dagger that the man was trying to reach for, he swiftly jammed it into the man’s stomach as the others held the man down. “Get his sword!” Biran shouted, and another man pulled out the dying man’s still sheathed sword. He quickly slit their captor’s throat without any further resistance.

“He doesn’t have the keys!” Another man cried out, patting down the dead captor.

“Get to the cages then!” He commanded, taking the sword. He needed to get to the cages to ascertain the boy’s whereabouts and to use them to break the chains.
The group of men had seen what he did and quickly assented, stumbling and pulling one another as they tried to run.

“Kill’em! Kill everyone!” He heard someone shout.

Still chained together, they failed to make it very far before screams started coming out from those in the back. Looking behind him, the men in his chain of prisoners were being slaughtered mercilessly. He could see the helpless situation going from bad to worse and Biran gripped the sword tightly in his hand, ready to defend himself and those around him.

“Spread out and protect the prisoners!” A woman’s voice bellowed through the chaos. Two unknown riders quickly came up from behind them, dispatching the four who were slaughtering them.

Biran watched, as a squad of riders joined the battle. Fanning out through the battlefield, the riders moved swiftly, killing anyone not bound in chains. Armored in black and riding large horses, they took offensive magic head on without worry. The few who were shot off their horses by magic or other means simply got back up and continued fighting on foot. As if protected by the gods, the new mounted group easily dominated the battle and before long it was over.

Biran stared at the open plain that was now littered with dead bodies. There had been at least forty people herding them like a group of animals, keeping them prisoners, but those people were all dead. Unfortunately, they were not the only casualties. Some of the prisoners had also been slaughtered as a last-ditch effort by their captors. Men, women, and children lay in clusters, chained together. Some dead, some dying, while others looked on in horror. His heart sank, fearing that his young charge was one of the casualties.

Holding the sword that he had taken earlier, he watched to see what was to come next. What their fate would be with the new group.

Two armored riders dismounted and walked toward them. “Are you all alright?” A deep manly voice questioned them.

“Yes! Thank you! Thank you thank you!”
“Thank the gods we’re saved!”
The others around him started expressing their gratitude.

He could not do the same. His thoughts were on something else.

After being briefly informed of the situation by their savoir, they were freed of their chains and cuffs.

“Lyal! Lyal!! Where are you?!” Biran shouted, moving to the four large cages as soon as he was freed.

As he expected, they were no longer in Unotus. They were now in Malpaars, and from what they were told, had been bound for the town of Garnikul, a place that dealt in the buying and selling of human lives.

Their saviors also revealed themselves to be Malpaar’s Liberation Army. But liberating Malpaars from what, he did not know and he did not care. All he could think of was looking for the prince.

Many others were already ahead of him. With agony in their voice, they were all calling for their loved ones.

“Marilin! NO!!” An excruciating cry came from a man who was kneeling beside the body of a woman with a deep gash in her neck.

“Timus… my little… *Sob*” The sound of a grief-stricken father who was holding onto his young son’s lifeless body.

All around him, the survivors were grieving.

“Lyal!!!” He yelled again, fearing for the worst as he looked through the first two cages, turning over bodies. “LYAL!!” He continuously called out.

“Biran! Biran I’m over here!” Near the last cage in the back, a frightened young boy frantically answered his calls. The boy stood with a group of women and children who were still waiting to be freed of their chains.

 

…

 

Sitting on the grass, he watched as two piles of bodies were set ablaze as the sun began to set.
Many of them had spent the evening gathering firewood from the forest and moving all the deceased to give them a funeral pyre. The majority had been against the idea of burning the slavers, so those bodies were left to rot in the open plain.

As the pyres burned, the crackling and smell of burning flesh pervaded through the somber atmosphere. Those who retained their lives watched and cried, trying to pay their last respects to the deceased.   

Biran sat, contemplating what to do next while the young prince slept beside him.
He was glad that his fears had not come true. He was thankful for the small stroke of luck after having endured all that hardship. He didn’t know what other trials the gods had in store for the two of them, but he knew one thing: they were both still alive. Although they were in a different land and had no idea where they are or where to go, ‘As long as we’re alive we can find a way to get back.’ He told himself, trying to reassure himself of their uncertain destiny.

Watching the flames dancing, he saw someone draped in black from head to toe walk up to stand between the two pyres.

“I am sorry for all your losses today,” A melancholic female voice resounded through to everyone, causing all eyes to fall on her immediately. It was the same voice he had heard earlier giving the command to protect the prisoners. “I know that many of you are distraught, and nothing can ever bring them back or fill the empty void their passing has created. Forgive us for being unable to save everyone. Forgive me for being too weak.” The woman made a deep bow.

“If not for this ambush, my wife would still be alive!” A grieving man stood up and shouted as he cried.

“My daughter… *Sob* She was only eight.” A woman cried, breathing heavily, trying to hold back her anger as tears rolled down her face.

A young widow who had lost her husband made a shrill cry, sobbing into her palms.

Filled with grief, those who had lost someone lashed back at the pitiful woman who was apologizing.

“I am sorry…” The woman replied once more, not lifting her head.

Biran watched as one of the armored knights walked in front of the woman.

“There is nothing to apologize for, my lady.” A man’s voice came through the dark helmet and he turned to look at those who had been shouting. “Your anguish is justifiable as your losses are indeed great, but your anger should not be directed toward my lady. If not for her, all of you would be moving towards a fate worse than death. She was the one who pleaded for this rescue after hearing words of your plight.” The man stepped forward and drew his sword. “For that, I Galefore Rvanius, first of her knights will not allow anyone else to further slander her benevolence.”

Those who had been shouting sat back down and wept.

“Please sheathe your sword, Gale.” The woman implored. The knight immediately complied and took a few steps back. The woman stepped forward and pulled back her black hood, revealing a gorgeous face with a broken horn protruding from her forehead. She was a Gveril, and looked to be in her early thirties. “I am Vernera Yufin V. Avarthias, First Princess and daughter of Malpaars late King Phaton Karlion Hars Avarthias. I know that words alone can never make up for it, but I too share your pain. I am sorry for your losses.” She lowered her head once again. Her voice, echoing a deep sadness.

‘The First Princess…’ Mesmerized by her visage, Biran could not help but stare blankly at the Princess.
Malpaars had recently gone through a successful revolution, one that came out of nowhere and lasted for two years, ultimately ending up with the execution of the royal family three years ago. For her to have escaped that purge, he was amazed.

“I know that many of you had no desire to be in this situation. To be frightened and powerless. To be bound and taken against your will to a foreign land and lose those who are dearest to you in the process.” The Princess spoke, looking at all of them with sadness in her eyes. “I want you all to know that none of you have any obligations to me for what I did. Those who wish to leave, I will not stop you. Those who cannot, are free to join me and mine until you are well enough to do so or wish to. That is the only thing I can do for all of you.” She paused and took a moment to look around. “As much as I hate to rest upon these cursed grounds, night is already upon us so we will be making camp here tonight. We will return to our place of refuge tomorrow. You are all welcome to join us.” She declared before walking way.

 

…

 

Along with four others and the young prince, they slept in a makeshift shelter of earth created by the mages. Biran spent half the night thinking.

Come the morning, a small group of men were given provisions before they went their separate ways. The majority of their group of refugees numbering almost eighty survivors joined the Princess and her entourage.

Five days later and after traveling through a large forest, they came to a large body of water. Enshrouded in fog, he could not tell if it was a lake or if they had arrived at the sea. The abnormal atmosphere gave it a bizarre feel as if something would burst forth from the water and attack them at any minute.

The young prince beside him held his hand tightly as they watched Princess Vernera approach the edge of the water with a group of mages. As the group began chanting incantations, the water began bubbling in a straight line and a path materialized on the surface of the water, leading straight into the fog.

“Everyone. Please follow me and do not veer off the path.” The Princess instructed before stepping onto the unknown surface with the mages and entering the fog.

Likewise: Biran, his young charge, and the others followed behind with the riders taking up the rears.

After another long walk without any visibility but the path underneath their feet, the fog began to clear and the sky opened up. In front of them stood a large city, floating in the center of the abnormal fog. At the gate was a group of people who were awaiting them.

Unlike the somber and silent past few days, the sound of cheerful laughter and shouting could be heard coming from the city. Looking to the city’s edge, kids were playing and splashing in the water. He spotted a couple derzul children swimming about and playing with gveril and human children.

“It is good to see you are safe, Princess.” A gveril woman greeted the princess upon reaching the gates.

“Sorry for always troubling you all.” The princess gave the woman a hug.

“My lady. The construction has been completed.” A stocky derzul man with a large upper body chimed in. “The men worked tirelessly these past twelve days and added a new section to the city as you wanted, but I don’t think it’ll be enough to accommodate all the new faces.”

“Thank you Usule. We’ll just have to keep adding onto the city if that’s the case.” The princess replied before turning back to look at the group. “I apologize for the unsettling trek. I know the fog frightened many of you, but is helps to disorient our enemies.” The princess turned to look at the sprawling city. “This is our home. Our base. I welcome you all to the Floating City of Vilute.”

 

***

 

-Darsus-

A group of people were following the road outside of Ferrent and traveling westward. Riding in the front was a young man with pitch black hair wearing traveling leather. Beside him was a man with dark blue hair. Two riders followed behind them along with a wagon and another group of six riders in the back.

“… Elzeores’ theory of mana allocation via runes. Using his works, we now have everyday items that are imbued with magic, offering those who can afford it a convenience to their quality of life. What I aim to do is bring that to everyone. Not just the rich, but to everyone no matter where they live in Darsus with little to minimal cost and maintenance.” Larant spoke excitedly. “Imagine: A conductor that can siphon off the mana from Lagus like a mage. Using that mana, the device can power itself after its initial starting phase. Now take that conductor and make it so that it disperses the excess mana it siphons throughout an area to other objects that can absorb that mana.” Larant made gestures with his hand, noting a large circular orbit. “It won’t be like how it is now where mages have to consistently go around and power apparatuses that have ran out of mana, but instead, it’ll be a giant field of perpetual infusion that encompasses and fuels everything that have been inscribed with the same runes. Placed in villages and towns, it could power any apparatus that requires mana even if said places do not have a mage. Such a thing could revolutionize the way people live their lives.” Larant explained passionately.

“It is a grand idea, but have you considered the harm that such a conductor could bring? The mana from Lagus is very different from those in our own body. Anyone can absorb it as long as they know how, and it corrupts the mind if unpurified. What would happened if a mage decides to use it to amplify their own abilities for destruction considering the convenience, or if unknown problems arise due to exposure to the primal power?” Kaidus inquired, staring at Larant.

For the older boy to have come up with such an idea not just for himself, but for the betterment of the world, it was quite laudable. Should it bear fruit, it would be a great accomplishment. Yet, he knew all too well that one man’s convenience could always become another man’s weapon. He recalled the now sealed mirror shard in his room that was taken from Zavon.

“I… have not considered any risks. Hahahaha.” Larant laughed, giving him a teething grin. “But I can think about that later. As it is, it’s just a concept I’m working with. I don’t even know where to begin, and it may end up just being a transient dream.”

“Ha… the way you were talking about it, I thought it was a work in progress already.”

“I wish.” Larant grinned, looking at the road ahead.

Their group was on a hunting expedition. The New Year was here along with the rjus, which was why Larant was home. Lord Varath had been the one to organize the outing. A five days trip: two days travel to the Linoti forest west of Ferrent for a day of hunting.

Seven Varath guards accompanied them. Two riding behind Kaidus and Larant, one steering the wagon, and four others riding in the back with Troyle and Lord Varath.

They had just left Ferrent. Adalina, Anise, and Lance were staying at the Varath manor for the duration of the trip.

“Hey Kaidus. Did you hunt a lot when you were with the mercenaries?” Larant questioned.

“A couple times.”

“Using magic?”

“I actually used a bow most of the time when I went out. Some of the older mercenaries taught me how to use one.” Kaidus gave a wry smile.

“Hah. A mage hunting with a bow. How inefficient.” Larant chuckled.

“Will you be hunting with magic?”

“Of course. I didn’t spend all that time at the academy learning magic so that I can use a bow to hunt.” Larant quipped.

“I’m looking forward to seeing that.”

“Say, have you met any of the others ever since your return?”

“Jorva and the others?”

“Yes.”

“I have not. Besides going to your place and that time I was summoned to the 13^th ward, I don’t get out of the 3^rd ward much. How’re they all doing?” 

“I’m not sure. I heard that Prim was admitted into the Mystiks Guild right after the academy because of her talents. I think Lisin and Jorva also joined the guild by passing the Trial of Flames.”

“Any idea what Mirat is up to?”

“Afraid not. Last I talked to him was at the end of his 6^th year. He said he would be traveling. Said something about taking your example to go outside of Ferrent and see where his magic can take him before coming back to settle down.” Larant replied, staring at the sky.

“I see. I wish him luck wherever he is.”

“Same…”

Another full day of riding later, they approached the dense Linoti forest.

 

—

 

In the darkness, a large and battered ship crashed onto Darsus’ southeastern shore. Signs of battle could be seen on the ship’s deck, and two of its three masts were missing.

Having grounded, the hull exploded and a figure wearing a black cloak strutted out of the opening onto the shore. The figure’s face was covered by a hood and all that was visible in the moonlight, was a confident grin on their face.

“Your master is back. The time has come for this land to be ravaged once again.” The figure spoke in a deep and powerful voice.

From behind the figure, a large group of people also came out.

“Virlah, Eshin, and Kain. Scout our surroundings. Make sure we are in a secure location. The rest of you salvage whatever you can from the ship for a temporary base. Burn whatever’s left with those rats still in there. We will wait until the next group is here before moving deeper inland.”

““Yes, Master Zavon.”” The group simultaneously obeyed.

The figure smiled.
The name was his. Unlike his predecessor, he would not fail the organization. It was only a matter of time before Darsus once again bowed before the might of Tal’hrus.

 

 

 

 

 

 

“Good morning Kaidus. Doing the day’s shopping for your mother again?” An older woman asked from behind a counter. In her hands were bundles of dried herbs.

“Good morning, Mrs. Grenson.” Kaidus greeted. “Can I get four heads of teraile garlic, two bunches of dried ciscut leaves, and half a cup of venesian pepper powder?”

“Of course.” The woman replied, putting down whatever she was doing and starting on the order. Walking over to a large barrel, “How’s your mother doing? She’s not overworking herself, is she?” The woman asked, scooping pepper powder and pouring it onto a sheet of paper before folding and tying it up.

“Lance has been waking up a lot at night so she’s a little tired.” Kaidus replied, taking the small package of spice powder from the woman.
Adalina being too tired was the reason why he was out shopping. His little brother was a crier, and had been keeping her up all night for the past couple days. To allow her some rest, he was doing the shopping while Anise stayed with her at home to help out.

“Hehehe, is that so? Good thing she’s got a strong young man like you to help out.” The woman returned a pleasant smile. “Oh my. We only have sheia garlic left. Doesn’t look like Dalon’s come by with a new supply of teraile yet.”

“Then three heads of sheia garlic please.” Kaidus readjusted his order. He wanted teraile garlic because it was more aromatic, but either was fine. Sheia was also a little larger than teraile, so three was good.

“Alright.” Picking out three large heads of garlic, the shop lady wrapped it up in another piece of wrapping paper before handing it to him along with two modest bunches of dried ciscut leaves.

“Thank you very much.” Kaidus handed eight erns to the woman before putting the items into a bag he was carrying.
The bag was already filled with some meat, half a qorkos, a whole laraze plant, two bulbous furuce roots, a package of salt, and a bag of ground mulse. He had shopped for both lunch and dinner.

“You’re welcome.” Mrs. Grenson replied, handing back two kuis. “Give your mother my regards please.”

“I will.” He waved as he moved toward the exit.

“AH!” Someone yelped as he opened the door of the shop.

On the ground before him sat a young lady wearing a black shawl over her shoulders. Underneath, she had on a creamy long-sleeved shirt with red floral patterns and a long flowing black skirt with streaks of red. A red hairband held back silky black hair from covering her lovely wincing face.

 

—

 

The door to the shop suddenly opened out in front of her. In her surprise, she fell backwards onto her bottom.

“Sorry. Are you alright?”

Looking up, a boy with pitch black hair wearing commoner clothing: a dark blue shirt under a brown leather vestment and gray pants, all underneath a plain gray cloak was apologizing to her. Holding a bag of grocery in his right hand, he was looking at her with two captivating black eyes that appeared to stare right through her.

Unnerved by the gaze, she froze for an instant before noticing the un-ladylike posture she was in. Before she could move, the boy had already set his bag down on the ground and grabbed her shoulders, easily pulling her up. In contrast to his looks, the boy was very strong.

Images of a young boy with pitch black hair silently holding her frightened hand and walking her home briefly flashed through her mind.

“Are you alright?” The boy asked again, staring at her with the same dark eyes.

“Yes, thank you.” She replied as she dusted her clothes, averting her eyes from the boy’s piercing gaze. ‘What is going on?’ She thought to herself, feeling flustered. She didn’t know who the boy was, but when she caught his eyes, she felt a sense of indescribable peace and familiarity.

“Celene are you alright?!” Someone called from behind and footsteps quickly caught up to her.

“Ah. I’m fine.” She replied, turning around to reassure her friend.

“I told you to be careful.” A girl her age scolded, coming to stand beside her. “You’re always so careless.” Her friend complained, patting at spots on her skirt where she had missed.

“Sorry Tannis…” Celene gave a sorry reply.
They were running an errand for Tannis’ mother, and one thing after another led it to become a competition to see who could get to the Herb and Spice shop the fastest.

“!!” A look of surprise suddenly appeared on Tannis’ face. “Sorry to block your path!” Her friend bowed apologetically before grabbing her arms to pull her aside before ushering her into the shop. As she was pulled past the boy, she glimpsed what looked like a smile on the boy’s face.

“I can’t believe it. He really does live in the 3^rd ward!” Her friend whispered excitedly after the door was closed.

“You know who that was Tannis?” Celene questioned with a curious tone. The boy felt familiar, but she had no idea why.

“That was this year’s arms competition champion! The one I was telling you about a while ago. I can’t believe it. He looks even more handsome up close!” Her friend exclaimed with a giddy tone while smiling brightly.

“That boy?” Celene gave a baffled reply.
She had stayed away from the arms competition because she disliked fighting or seeing people getting hurt. The emotional scars from that day years ago had healed somewhat, but seeing violence always brought back unpleasant memories. To hear that the boy was the champion, it was quite the surprise to her.

“Mrs. Grenson!” her friend shouted, running over to the counter.

“Hello Tannis. What brings you here today? Hi Celene.” The kind old woman behind the counter greeted them.

“Good morning.” She replied, following behind Tannis.

“Mrs. Grenson. Do you know that boy who was just here?” Her friend gestured to the door.

The older woman gave them a smile. “I do. Why do you ask? Did he catch your fancy Tannis?”

“What?! No! I was telling Celene about him but I forgot his name,” Tannis denied. “N-not to mention… I already have Rowan.”

“I was just teasing you.” The older woman smiled. “His name is Kaidus. He lives in the Shorza district not far from here.”

“!!” Celene’s eyes widened.

“That’s right. Kaidus.” Tannis reiterated, remembering the name.

“If you’re thinking about dropping Rowan for him, I say go for it.” The woman gave them a big grin.

“I told you already. That’s not it!”

“I thought he moved?” Celene cut in.

“I don’t know about that, but he’s back now. Wait… don’t tell me you too Celene?” The woman gave her an inquisitive look. “Ah… that’s right. Why wouldn’t you be?” having figured out something out, Mrs. Grenson winked at her.

“N-no. I was just surprised. I thought that he moved or something had happened to him.” Celene quickly responded. “Tannis I’ll be right back. I just remembered I have to do something.” She quickly bolted out the door.

“Celene!? Where are you going?!” Her friend called from behind.

 

…

 

She moved with fervor, following the direction the boy would have taken to get to the Shorza district.

She knew him. He was her savior and she had admired him ever since that fateful day.
The last time she talked to him was four years ago during a visit to his house with her mother. Although she pictured it as talking in her mind, thinking about it, it was mostly him asking her questions and she replying while hiding her embarrassment. After that, for a whole year, she silently admired him from a distance. Ashamed about what she had put him through and too embarrassed to even talk to him, she merely watched whenever she saw him moving through the shopping district.
That was until he suddenly disappeared three years ago. She feared that something may have happened, forcing the boy to move away or that he was exiled, but thankfully neither of those were the case.

He had grown up so much that she did not even recognize him. From the child who was a head shorter than her back then, he looked to be about her same height, if not only a little shorter. She finally understood why she had felt so flustered and why he had felt so familiar.

Not far from the shop, she spotted the boy’s back moving away with a bag of grocery in his hand. Taking a deep breath, she opened her mouth to shout his name but froze. ‘What am I going to say to him?’ The question rang through her mind. She stood there in the middle of the street contemplating her purpose.

As his figure moved further and further away, ‘Whatever!’ Her mind cried out and she ran toward him. “Kaidus!” She shouted the name that had been imprinted onto her mind. As soon as the words left her mouth, a sense of apprehension befell her. ‘What if he doesn’t remember me? What if it’s not him?’ She thought.

In front of her, the boy stopped and turned around. “Celene?” His dark eyes fell on her and his mouth spoke her name.

The apprehensive feeling inside her vanished. Before she even realized it, she was already hugging him. “I thought I’d never see you again.” Words filled with regret escaped her mouth.

“C-Celene?” A startled voice called her name.

“Can we be friends?” Four words she always wanted to ask him came out.

 

…

 

The boy had swiftly led them away from the middle of the busy street, and she was standing against the wall of the bakery, reflecting on what she just did. Thinking about it, her face grew hot and she hung her head down and stared at her feet.

“I’m sorry.” Celene apologized again as the sound of footsteps approached her.
Her shameless actions had drawn quite the attention to them. Yet to her, it felt like a weight had been lifted off her chest when he assented to her selfish request.

“You’ve apologized enough. Please don’t worry about it.” The boy replied, handing her a freshly baked mulse cake.

“Thank you…” Taking it, she took a nibble. The edge of the fluffy round cake easily gave way and a sweetness filled her mouth.
The boy stood beside her, silently enjoying his own. Taking another bite of the cake, she looked at him. “Kaidus.”

“Hmm?” Two dark eyes gaze back at her.

“Do you think I’m weird?”

“No.” His answer was prompt and decisive as he took another bite of his own mulse cake.

“Not even after what I did?” She enquired, looking down at the ground.

“You must’ve had your reasons.” An answer without a hint of derision or falsehood.

“I see…” She was glad. Even if he had found her weird, it wouldn’t have changed how she felt. To hear him say no, it made her happy.

“Have you been well these past few years? How’s your brother doing now?” The boy questioned.

“Naran is helping my father with the family business. He’s already quite skilled at appraising gems and jewelry. Of course, father has to double check and would never say it, but I can see that he’s proud of Naran.” Celene smiled, thinking about it.

“And yourself?”

“I’m doing well.” She replied, giving him a smile and not going deeper into detail.

“I see… say, what did you mean earlier about not seeing me again?”

“I… I just thought that with how you are with magic, you moved away or something. I thought you’d left Ferrent forever.” She tried to make it sound casual. “B-because you know, I never really thanked you for what you did.” She explained, steeling herself before looking at the boy again. “And I’ve always wanted to ask you to be friends.” She gave a sheepish grin. “Did you know it was me earlier when you saw me?” She quickly added, playing off her embarrassment before he could pick apart her words.

“I had my doubts, but then your friend called your name.” A smile crept onto the boy’s face.

“Why? Why didn’t you say anything?” She scowled at him.

“I was going to, but it looked like you both were in a rush.”

“…” She recalled his smile from earlier and couldn’t refute his statement. Tannis has pulled her into the shop after seeing him.

“Where is your friend?”

“Probably heading back h- AH! I’ve been gone for too long. I should go back before she gets angry.” She stepped away from the wall. “I’m sorry again. Thank you for the cake and… and for going along with my selfishness.” She quickly curtsied. “See you again next time.”

“It was my pleasure. Have a good day.”

Walking away, she had a big smile plastered on her face.

 

—

 

His thoughts fell on Celene as he walked home.

He was surprised at suddenly being embraced, and could do naught but acquiesce to her pure emotions.

He recalled the young girl who was bruised and crying. The stouthearted girl who walked into the trial hall that day. The shy girl who sat with him in their living room, too shy to speak unless spoken to.

The girl from all those years ago had grown into a lovely young lady. Her shapely figure, her enticing red lips, her beautiful pearly face, the soft and ample chest that had pressed against his earlier, and the sweet scent of dried cilic berries that clung onto her. It would be a lie if he said he did not find her attractive.

Arriving at home, his thoughts about the fleeting encounter quickly evaporated as he passed by the window of his house. Inside, Adalina was quietly watching Anise who had Lance in her arms.
He stood outside, taking a moment to absorb the soothing scene before entering the house.

“Thank you honey. I’ll get started on lunch soon so can you put that in the kitchen and come watch Lance?” His mother spoke as he got in.

After putting the bag of grocery away, he took out a small cloth bag lined with paper that contained something he bought on the way back.

Anise’s eyes stared at what was in his hand and a bright smile appeared on her face.

“Here.” Kaidus smiled, setting the bag on the table and taking the baby from Anise.

With a joyous expression on her face, his sister took out one of the mulse cakes and gave it to their mother before taking one for herself. The little girl quickly finished hers, before giving him a thankful hug.

“There’s another one in there for you.”

“?” She gave him a curious look. “You don’t want it?” His sister asked, taking a quick glance at the bag on the table.

“I’ve already had mine. The one in there is also for you.” He knew she loved the treat and had bought an extra for her.

“Thanks Kai!”

“You’re spoiling her too much, Kaidus.” His mother reprimanded, smiling at them.

“She deserves it.” Kaidus grinned.

 

…

 

Holding Lance in his arms while Adalina made lunch, the baby’s two beady eyes moved around the room while its tiny mouth threatened to cry. He held Lance gently, making sure to support both the baby’s body and head. Unlike Anise who had dark red hair, Lance’s red hair was lighter and more closely to Troyle’s hair color. Instead of the dark black eyes like Anise, himself, and their mother, Lance also had Troyle’s light brown eyes.

Looking at his brother, his mind began to wander and he started thinking.

His plans were to leave Ferrent once he turned 15, which was a year and a half away. He had yet to tell his parents about it, but he had an inkling they would not oppose his decision. 15 was the age when his mother ran away from home, and his father had already joined the Droxxon mercenary way before that.

He thought about his family’s future after his departure, about his own, and about what he would have to do, to accomplish what needed to be done.

Looking at the small face in his arms, his thoughts turned toward a different direction and he briefly entertained the idea of having his own family. ‘Hahaha.’ He chuckled inwardly at his childish delusions.

As much as he wished to just stay and live a carefree life with those he loves, deep inside of him was a thirst for answers and a darkness that could never be revealed. His current life was but a moment’s rest from what is to come. He did not know what lies ahead, but he knew that his path would be riddled with death and destruction if he wishes to protect his loved ones from a world of fear and tyranny.

“Kai what does this say?” Anise who was reading beside him asked, snapping him back to reality. She was pointing to a word on her book.

“Let’s see… Hahahaha.” He started laughing.

“Kai?” His sister gave him a puzzled look.

“Sorry. That says Proclamation.”

“Prok-kla-may-shen…” Anise imitated. “What does proclamation mean?”

“To announce something important.”

“I see.” She smiled and returned to her book.

 

***

 

-Elsewhere-

Bound in chains, the man trudged forward. He was the first in the line of prisoners.
Physically exhausted, each step he took was more painful than the last. Not caring about his life, all he could think about was the young boy who had been taken away and was riding in a cage behind him somewhere. Every time he tried to look back, he was whipped by one of two men walking beside him. Each time he tried to ask about the boy, he was beaten.

Biran cursed the gods for their bad luck. He questioned the all-knowing one’s motives, shouting angrily at them in his head. Yet unwilling to lay down and die, he marched onward, hoping against all hopes that he and the boy could make it out of this together.

They were prisoners.
Twenty-two days ago, their ship had been commandeered by pirates while on their way to Port Novierre. The pirates had stayed around for another nine days to capture others ships before sailing for land.
He knew not where they were, only that they are no longer in Unotus.

“Pick up the pace! There’s an opening up ahead you can all rest then!” Someone shouted as whips cracked all around him.

“Kuh!” He gritted his teeth as a streak of pain flared upon his upper back, snaking down to his lower left side. He felt a pull, as others along the line fell down to the pain of being whipped. He used the chance to glance back at the four cages being pulled by large dronnons behind him, but couldn’t make out anything.

They had been separated and the women and children were riding in cages like animals, while the men traveled on foot and were killed on the spot whenever they refuse to keep moving.

He heard sobbing and crying, then the line started to move again.

 

…

 

After a tiring trek, they eventually made it to the resting place. In front of him, a large plain opened up. Surrounded by trees on two sides of the road with a stream flowing straight down to intersect the road.

He breathed a sigh of relief at the wondrous sight before him.
Their line of prisoners was led to the stream for water. A line of women and children were also led out of the cages to the stream.

Biran gorged himself along with the other men, drinking whatever he could stomach. He did not care if it was sanitary or not. All he knew was that they had walked all afternoon, each getting only a couple handfuls of water. It was the amount they had received yesterday, and the day before that. Such a chance to drink his fill may not come again.

While taking his drink, he watched those in the back who were coming for water. His sharp eyes caught movements in the trees. The ununiformed ground around them suddenly bulged out and people with swords began rising out of the ground.

One of the captors sounded a horn briefly before he was cut down. Horns began to blow from all around and he frantically scanned the prisoners, looking for the young man whom he was supposed to be protecting as mayhem ensued.

-2 years ago. Lokil, 5^th Turn-

“Hurry! Get everyone out of here!!”
A man wearing a colorful outfit of sapphire blue, jade green, and velvet red was shouting as his subjects scurried about, running for their lives.
The castle was trembling, shaking uncontrollably even with the constant reinforcement of magic. Large chunks of stone dislodged itself from the walls of the castle and crashed onto the stone floors, crushing anything and anyone unfortunate enough to be underneath.

“My Lord, we must go! The castle is collapsing!” A man wearing a set of armor marred by dents and scratches shouted at him, giving him looks filled with fear and doom.

“GO! Get them out of here!” The lord shouted back, ordering the knight to save his subjects. Instead of leaving with them, he took off deeper into the castle. Evading falling tiles and stones, he slowly made his way to the vault where the cause for the destruction was, silently praying to the gods for the strength to overcome whatever had been unleashed.

The unusual quake had begun earlier with the usual shaking of the Iesian box. One of his vault guards had reported it in the early afternoon, but the box’s unusual behavior had become a norm after two years, and he had thought nothing of it. Unfortunately this time, the elongated box did not stop as it usually does. By the time he called for his mages, it had already began to levitate, and it was too late. The mages confirmed that a source of power was emanating from it, distorting everything around it and causing the unknown phenomenon. They had tried to combat it by forming a barrier around the object, trying to seal it off, but their magic was ineffective. Attempts after attempt failed at calming it down and they eventually gave up, moving to evacuate those in the castle instead.

As he approached the family vault, he saw beams of light cutting through the thick metal door and into the stone walls of the castle. Too frightened to approach, before he could decide if he wanted to confront whatever was happening alone or go back for a few mages, a blinding light erupted from within the vault and painted his world white. As soon as the light hit him, the tremors stopped and a suffocating feeling of dread rendered him powerless.

‘Demons!’ He thought to himself, remembering the stories passed down with the box. He cursed himself, having allowed such a thing to happen because of his negligence. Afraid and suffering from an overwhelming power, he forced himself to crawl to the vault door as soon as his vision returned.

His eyes blared wide open as he stared at what appeared to be a man made of light, standing in the middle of the room. The figure was completely featureless and only its shape was like that of a human. Two arms, a head, a body, and legs. It looked like a drawing on a piece of paper with no defining dimensions.

“Freedom At Last…” The figure spoke with a sharp and distinct voice filled with power and indignation.

“Wh-What are you?” His words were filled with terror, but his mouth moved in awe at the sight before him. The figure made of light shifted, turning to stare at him. The Lord saw his life flash before his eyes, fearing the terrible end that was about to befall him.

“The World Shall Know Soon Enough.” Yet instead of killing him, the light answered before morphing into an orb and disappearing through the wall of the vault.

With the deadly pressure gone, the Lord stood up, having survived the horrific ordeal. He walked over to where the light had vanished. A large hole as big as his head bore through four thick layers of metal and three of layers of stone, cleanly cutting through to the outside.

Looking at the ground, the Iesian box laid there with a large chunk of its corner torn off and on the other side of the room.

 

***

 

-Elsewhere, 2 years ago. Kinu, 8^th Turn-

In the Darkness that was its prison, the entity silently flexed is strength, prodding for the seal’s weakness. Brimming with power that it had conserved, it waited patiently for its chance to escape.

After unknown days of waiting, a new strength began flowing into it. The time had arrived. The seals had weakened after countless attempts, and it was time to free itself of the invisible shackles that bound it to the prison.

Under a mountain, buried deep underground in a long forgotten shrine of sealing, a large box made of wood began to twitch. From within, a metal blade pierced through the side of the box, releasing a shockwave that shook the whole mountain range. Animals scattered as nesting birds and drakalls took to the air, flying away from the danger that was to come.

From within the earth, a dreadful aura gushed forth as the mountain was instantly cleaved into halves.

As the shaking stopped and the dusts settled, it revealed a large fissure that tore through the center of the mountain range from one side to the other, cutting through two peaks. At the epicenter was the buried sealing shrine and wooden box. Arms of metal suddenly shot out of the crack and pried open the box before smashing it to bits. The arms melded together and formed a figure of pitch black, calmly looking around itself. The figure neither shined nor reflected light, instead looking like an endless void that threatened to do the very opposite.

“Master.” A single word reverberated through the gorge as it transformed into a sword, falling and embedding itself into the earth. Before long, the sword started to glow then suddenly vanished in a flash of light.

 

***

 

A familiar scene. A familiar scent. Looking around, he was within a forest.
It was still early morning, but stray rays of sunlight came through the forest canopy, enveloping bits of the underbrush in a transcendent glow. A chilling breeze swept through and he shuddered. He noticed he was hiding underneath a thick layer of scented reikin leaves, concealing his scent and presence. A sense of Déjà vu hit him and he realized where he was. Although camouflaged, he knew that two other members of the mercenary guild were also there with him: one inside the hollow of a tree and the other up a different tree, both across from his position.

Their little team of three was hunting a cadrian, a subspecies of wolves that had horns. Although a rare behavior, the beast had been injuring hunters from the nearby village of Allavak, eventually forcing the village to contact the mercenary guild.

The three of them had already set a bait and trap a good distance away from the cadrian’s burrow. Their plan was to lure it out and capture it so that they can dispatch it swiftly and cleanly.

He knew the beast was sleeping peacefully within the burrow. He could sense it. Magic would easily take care of it, but that was not why he joined the mercenaries. He needed to learn how those without magic dealt with such problems, and to ready himself for the years ahead if he didn’t want to draw attention to himself. The experts of the guild had been kind enough to allow him to follow along, knowing that he could defend himself if the need arises.

‘Master.’
A hollow voice, overflowing with power echoed in his mind as he silently crouched in the hiding spot. ‘******?’ After nearly two years, one of the familiars had finally made contact.

‘At Last.’ The voice replied.

‘Where are–?’ Before he could finish his question, a sphere of light manifested in front of him. Like a little sun, the orb was pure white, yet it did not radiate any light or heat. Staring at it, the orb neither burned his eyes nor gave him any discomfort.

‘This is wrong,’ He thought to himself. ‘This is not what happened.’ As soon as the thoughts entered his head, the orb in front of him exploded, engulfing him and everything around him.

Wide awake, he sat up on his bed. It had been a dream of when the familiar returned to him two and a half years ago. Except, at that time, he had commanded the spirit to wait for him to be alone before revealing itself.
“Vishan.” Kaidus spoke, addressing the elemental.

“Master.” A familiar voice answered and an orb of calming pure white manifested in front of him. Around him, the room was still dark.

“What did you do?” Something was wrong and he could sense it.

“What You Could Not.” It hesitantly answered.

“Tell me.” A calm yet deathly tone escaped his mouth.

“A Lesson For Those Who Knows Not Their Place. A Blind Man Needs No Sight.”

“That was unnecessary.” He replied, grasping what the light spirit had done. Kaidus got off the bed and moved to his dresser.

“A Necessity. A Warning.” The orb replied back.

“Unnecessary. The world is no longer what it used to be. Actions like that will only bring more trouble than they are worth. I’ve told you this already.”

“I Will Tolerate Those Who Are Close To You Even If They Mock You. I Can Endure Those Who Know Not What You Are. What I Will Not Do, Is Pardon Those Who See Your Strength, Yet Refuses to Understand Their Position. What I Will Not Forgive Is Those Who Degrade You, Forcing You To Bend Before Them.” The orb replied, unwavering in its conviction.

“Ha…” Kaidus sighed, making his displeasure obvious.
Having lived through a portion of his previous life with them, he understood Vishan’s reasoning. His Spirits were extremely proud and protective of him, but the world now is very different from the one where they had to defend him from their enemies at every turn. He thought the spirit had come to understand such a difference after almost three years, but it seems that was not so.

Putting on a long-sleeved shirt he took out of his dresser, he moved over to the window. Pulling aside the curtains, dim moonlight entered his room. The moon was setting, but it was not yet dawn. He still had time. “I have been too lenient. Next time such actions are taken against my will, I will restrict your movements and strength. That goes for all of you.”

“Masssterrrr.” A tone of compliance hissed.

“This one Obeys.” Another voice grounded in his head.

“Understood… Master.” Vishan’s voice spoke in reluctant confirmation.

Opening the window, a cold breeze blew into the room. Without another word, a thought launched him into the sky, moving toward the Inner wards.

 

—

 

“…Found! Lockdown the 13^th ward and send words to my mages!” His voice boomed through the room. Even without sight, he commanded his servants with reason and authority.

“Dear, you must rest. Who knows what else is wrong with you. At least let the physicians look at you.” His wife’s voice cut through his commands and begged him.

“I CAN REST WHEN I HAVE THAT FUCKER’S HEAD IN MY HANDS!” He shouted. He had already sent words to his royal knights and they would be here by morning. His mages had already combed through the palace for any suspicious magic residue, and he had all his palace guards searching the 13^th ward.

“But you said yourself, you don’t kno…”

Voices started getting distant and his wife’s words became muffled. “Speak up!” He shouted, but even his shout sounded like whispers in his ears. An ominous feeling swept through the chamber and everything became dead silent.

“My apologies for the uninvited visit, your majesty.” A familiar voice clearly resounded through the room. One that spoke to him not even a day ago.

“You…” The hair on the back of his neck stood up and he could feel cold sweat running down his body. His arms started to shake uncontrollably, realizing who the assassin is. His thoughts instantly jumped to Headmaster Nylen’s words.

“Y-you did this. This is TREASON! GUARDS!! WHERE ARE YOU?!” He shouted, but only silence answered him.

“Vishan. Restore his light.” The young boy’s voice issued words of command, and as it happened before, his world was instantly filled with an eerie white. “GAHHH!!!!” Pain once again seared his eyes and he screamed out.

He felt himself fall to the ground, unable to withstand the pain.

As before, the burning eventually vanished and he slowly opened his eyes to the darkness of night. He was still in his bedchamber, but those around him were all lying on the ground—including his wife. Before him stood the young boy from the previous afternoon. “What have you done?!” He screamed in anger and glared at the unassuming boy, having forgotten what kind of situation he was in.

“Watch Your Tone, Ungrateful One.” An orb materialized before him and a beam of light protruded out like a sword, stopping before his chest. It was the same orb that had blinded him earlier, speaking with the same tone and mannerism.

“Vishan.” The boy spoke and the ball instantly vanished. “They are fine. They are merely unconscious,” The boy explained and made a graceful bow with his head low. “We don’t have much time, but I am here to apologize for everything my spirit did. I know that we parted on less than amicable terms and this only complicates things, but I hope we can put all this behind us and start anew.”

“You think an apology is enough for everything I’ve suffered?!” The disposition of a king returned to him and he lashed out, seeing that his life was not the objective. “You think you can waltz into my palace, into my chambers and waltz out without any repercu–?!”

The boy lifted his head and his stare instantly silenced Sarjace. “Don’t misconstrue my conduct as a sign of weakness, ‘Your Majesty’.” A different tone of voice came out of the young boy’s mouth.

King Sarjace shuddered and his mouth slammed shut. The voice was cold, filled with malice, and swam through the air as if tangible.

The boy took a step closer to him. Looking at the young boy now, the piercing black eyes from yesterday’s audience was glowing with an otherworldly bluish hue. While it shone beautifully, there were no emotions presiding in them. “I came to personally apologize for this matter. I did not need to do such a thing, yet here I am.” The boy’s cold eyes locked onto his. “I could have stayed my hands. Denied knowing anything and the whole city would be searching for a phantom. Yet instead of that, I came and restored your vision. Even revealed myself and extended my hand, offering a new beginning; a clean slate between the two of us as a show of apology. It is up to you if you wish to take it.” The boy spoke, staring at him. “But if a genuine apology and offer of goodwill is beyond your comprehension and you wish to strike back, let me make one thing clear to you. An army will not save you. Your life was already mine to do with as I will the moment we met. No one in this city can save you from me. Leave me and my family alone, and I shall do the same for yours.” The boy turned around and walked to the window. “Again, I am truly sorry for what my spirit did. It will not happen again.” The boy apologized one last time before opening the window. A sudden gust swept him up and the boy was gone.

“What just…” King Sarjace stared at the window, filled with disbelief. He wasn’t sure if everything had been a dream but around him, the six guards who had been stationed inside the bedchamber to protect him laid on the cold floor. Servants were strewn about, laying on the ground without order or reason, falling where they stood. His wife’s body slumped on the chair where she had been sitting—talking to him only moments before.

He brought his hand to her mouth and felt her warm breaths. He gently placed his palm on her chest and felt it rising up and down. She was alive. Carrying her to the bed, he set her down gently before moving to the chamber doors.

Opening them, he looked outside but all he could see was bodies lying about, all were undoubtedly unconscious.

‘He could have killed me, and no one would have known who did it.’
The realization finally dawned on him and he his body went limp, falling to his knees. For such a dangerous individual to freely enter and exit his chamber that is located on the 3^rd floor of the palace, at the same time simultaneously knocking out everyone within and around it, he couldn’t believe it. “This is why I should reconcile with him…” He told himself, looking around the room and remembering Headmaster Nylen’s reasoning, along with Evelyn’s incessant advice. “So much for being the King… What would you have done in this situation Father?” A dull silence filled the room. “No. Don’t tell me. You wouldn’t have been foolish enough to allow things to escalate this much.” he spoke out loud so that he could hear his thoughts. “You’d have welcomed him with open arms and accepted his denial with a smile, opting for friendship after his refusal wouldn’t you?” He tried to stand up but couldn’t.
His thoughts moved to the cold eyes that were just looking at him moments ago. “How can such a young child have eyes like that…” He muttered. Powerful eyes that carried death and destruction. Sarjace couldn’t help but tremble, remembering the boy’s threats. The look the boy gave him spoke volumes about the extents that the boy would go to if he tried to retaliate.

Kneeling alone amidst the unconscious bodies of his servants, guards, and a few knights in the hall, he saw for himself what awaited him should he strike back.

 

***

 

Kaidus awoke to the sound of Lance crying. Listening, he could hear Adalina’s footsteps making its way up the stairs.

It was a peaceful morning as usual, and not a single thing felt out of place.

There was a knock at the door during breakfast.

Opening the door, a knight wearing a full plate of armor except for his helmet stood at the entrance with a large horse standing in the street. “Good morning.” The man greeted Kaidus with a smile.

“May I help you?”

“A letter and a parcel for you.” The man pulled out a letter with a royal seal along with a small hand sized bundle. “It’s a little late, but congratulations for winning the arms competition. I saw your two final matches. You were amazing for one so young.”

“Thank you.” Kaidus replied, taking the letter and small bundle.

“Well then, have a good day.” The knight gave him a friendly smile before mounting the horse and riding away.

Breaking the seal, Kaidus unfolded the letter.

‘Kaidus Paltos,

I apologize for my unruly behavior. It was unfit for one who calls himself King.
I’ve thought about what you said and if it is not too late, I wish to extend my hand with yours for a new beginning between the two of us. I fully accept your stance and refusal, but hope that I may be able to call on you in the future should the need arise. Not as King and subject, but as two people who wish for the betterment of the country.

As a show of my sincerity, I have included a medallion with the royal crown insignia, the symbol of Dalzon royalty. If you ever require help or access to me, show it to the gate keepers and they shall allow you into the 13^th ward, no questions asked. I understand that this gesture is miniscule compared to what someone of your caliber deserves, but it is the best I can do without forcing your hand once again.

Even if it is too late, hold onto it in case you ever need it.

Sincerely,

Sarjace J. Roulus Dalzon XII’

 

When faced with an overwhelming opponent, one either submits or fights to the very end. The content of the letter sounded genuine enough, yet he couldn’t help but be suspicious.

“Kaidus! Breakfast is getting cold!” Troyle shouted from the kitchen.

He was still standing at the doorway with the door wide open.

“What was that about?” Troyle questioned as he returned.

“A letter and this.” Kaidus handed the letter to Troyle while he opened the bundle.

The events of yesterday had already been discussed with his parents. They regretted his decision, but it was his choice and they couldn’t help but consent to it. Having given the letter to Troyle, he was thankful, the letter had nothing about the previous night’s visit.

Opening the bundle, he revealed a perfectly circular golden medallion with an intricate crown in the middle. Three tiny gemstones were embedded into the crown and the medallion itself was masterfully crafted. It emitted a faint trace of magic and had a soft warm glow.

As expected, the ulterior motives hidden behind the excuse of an audience came into full view. It was unprecedented for the King to personally invite the champion for an audience, and upon seeing Lord Ravon, he had suspected something was up.

Kaidus lowered his head and bowed. “Forgive me your majesty, but I must-”

“Kaidus.” Lord Ravon interrupted him. “What are you doing son? Becoming a part of the nobility means you can live anywhere within the inner wards. Not only that, you will be given territory outside of Ferrent from his Majesty’s own land to call yours. It is not every day that his majesty awards such honors.”

“I understand, my lord. Even so, I must graciously refuse.” Not lifting his head, he declined without hesitation.

“Won’t you take a moment to think about it? Wouldn’t your parents want this for you?” Lord Ravon reasoned.

“It is not a matter of what they want for me.” Lifting his head, he stared directly at the King. “Your majesty, please do not be offended by my ungrateful words. I do not refuse because I wish to trample on your good intentions. I refuse, because there are things that I must take care of no matter what.”

“Things huh? Do tell.” The king retorted, unconvinced.

“I seek answers that Darsus does not have. There are also promises that I must fulfill.”

“What sort of grand promise could you possibly have? What answers are so important that you would forgo such privileges and deny me, your King?” The King questioned with a tone of irritation.

“The ill-fated kind, and answers that I’ve been striving for all my life. To give up on them would be to deny myself and everything I have done up to this day.” Without faltering, he gave an honest answer, leaving out the details.
He’d already told Zavon that he would annihilate Tal’hrus, and it was a promise he aims to fulfill. His search for answers is not something that he could simply discard, seeing how close he was to actually finding some.

“…” The King silently stared at him, trying to pick out any lies. Around them, the other members of the nobility started clamoring about the unexpected turn of event. “SILENCE!” The king roared, and the room went quiet once again. He turned to Kaidus. “Say the words and my resources are yours to do with as you will. Use them to resolve your business. Use them to find your answers. Just as long as you swear to me.”  

“I cannot. I do not know how long it will take me, for it is unknown to me where my problems truly lie. Accepting such a thing would only besmirch your good name since I will be unable to fulfill my duties.”

Lord Ravon took a step forward and tried to say something but was stopped with a wave of the King’s hand. “I shall ask you once more, young man. Will you not pledge your strength to mine?”

“I apologize, but I have already made up my mind.” Reinforcing his decision, Kaidus bowed once again.

“Kaidus…” Lord Ravon was speechless.

“Thrice I have asked you. Thrice I have been denied. You have proven yourself a powerful mage and I will not rescind your title, but know that by refusing the offer, you have denied your king. May you live with the decision you have made today, for you will surely regret it. Get out of my sight.” With an icy tone, the King spat out words of dismissal.

“Your majesty, surely there is-”

“Silence Gelrin! I’ve wasted enough of my time with this useless peasant! Let him have it his way. One or two more mages makes no difference.”

“Your majesty.” Kaidus lifted his head and left the audience hall without looking back.

“Please allow me to escort the boy out.” Lord Ravon bowed, and with a dismissive wave of the king’s hand, he took steps to catch up to Kaidus.

 

…

 

Away from the Audience hall, “I don’t know what to say, boy. Five years I’ve waited for a chance to put you into his majesty’s graces.” Lord Ravon spoke solemnly, not looking at Kaidus but straight ahead. “I wanted to wait until you were out of the academy, but then you suddenly withdrew and vanished. You come back after three years, win the arms competition, and then single handedly destroy everything I have done for you. Everything is for naught…”

“You can start by giving me an apology, my lord. I came for an audience, not for this charade. You have my gratitude for all your good intentions, but I don’t need you nosing around in mine or my family’s affairs. We are fine where we are.” Kaidus retorted with an indifferent tone, irritated by the lord’s unwarranted meddling.

“Your family may be fine where it is, but did you ever consider what you could have done for the people of this country? What it would mean for Darsus to have one such as yourself standing at its core in a decade or so?” Lord Ravon stepped in front of him and gave him a gaze filled with expectations. “I may not know you well enough, but I consider myself a great judge of character. I’ve seen what you can do. I see what kind of a person you are. You may not believe me when I say this, but within you I see the most noble of qualities. Traits that are sorely lacking in these arrogant and vainglorious lords who flaunt their titles around like a mantle on their shoulders, vying for the King’s favor.” Lord Ravon countered.

“Then you do not know me at all. I am not as virtuous or as noble as you make me out to be.”

“Deny it all you want boy, but by hiding in the shadows of lesser men, you will only be doing the world a disservice.”

“That is where you are incorrect, my lord. The shadow is where I belong.” Kaidus replied, his tone clear and unwavering. “The world is better off not knowing the likes of me.”

“… If that is what you really think, then I don’t know what else to say.” Lord Ravon made a low apologetic bow. “I apologize for doing all this behind your back. If you truly wish it, then it will not happen again.”

“Thank you…”

They walked in silence until they reached the palace gates were the carriage was waiting.

“My lord,” Kaidus spoke after the lord issued for a carriage to be brought around. “Though I cannot be bound to this city, it is my home. It is where I grew up and where my family lives. I have seen its greatness. I have walked amongst its citizens and seen leaders such as yourself lead with honor and impartiality. It is already a great place and has no need for someone such as myself. I may have declined the proposition today, but know that I will do everything I can to protect this place that I love.” Finished, Kaidus got on the carriage that came around and departed.

“One day you will understand…” Lord Ravon voiced out loud to himself as he watched the carriage leave.

 

—

 

Evelyn simply watched as the boy left, unable to do or say anything.
She was shaken up and shocked at how easily she was defeated. Being the Iridescent Flames and a high Malgin, it was ridiculous how easily the boy had shattered her confidence.

Her sister Prim had always spoken about the boy, yet she had always though Prim to be exaggerating. Today, she saw for herself why her extraordinary younger sister spoke so highly of him.

Her firewall could not even be construed as a test, and in her second attempt, it took everything she had just to resist the boy’s magic before being utterly crushed. She had not expected such a one-sided outcome.

As Prim previously put it, the boy was: “like an endless storm of magic. Swallowing and devastating anything unfortunate enough to cross his path.”
It was even more terrifying to see the boy so relaxed afterwards.

She needed to do something. “Your majesty.” Evelyn stepped forth to stand before her King. “Forgive me.”

“Disgraceful. To think you of all people would lose to someone like that.” The king snarled back, glaring at her.

“I take full responsibilities for shaming the court mages.” She got on her knees and kneeled. “But your majesty, I do not believe anyone else would have been able to do better.” She lowered her head. “Excuse my selfishness but I, Evelyn Luciere of House Lithius, implore you to recall the boy and discuss this issue further. We must not lose someone like him.”

“There is nothing else to discuss, Evelyn. He’s made it quite clear that he will not swear fealty to me.”

“What would you have him do once he aligns himself to you, your majesty? Send him out on expeditions? Make the most of his magic? That child?”

“Evelyn!”

“Forgive me, but I must speak my mind.” She pressed onward, keeping her head down. “There is no doubt the boy refused your good will, but it is very clear that he means no offense by it. I feel it would be best if we resolved this matter with the boy cordially, instead of leaving things as it is.”

“Nonsense, Lady Lithius. You’ve seen what he did. Such a simple individual should be imprisoned and his family flogged for putting his majesty through that humiliating ordeal.” A deep voice interjected from the side.

“Lord Belnir, I was speaking to his majesty. Please stay out of this.”

“I am more inclined to agree with Lixus. Why should I make amends with someone like that instead of imprisoning him for being a spy?” The king’s eyes narrowed, giving her an inquisitive look.

“Still not listening to reason are you, Sarjace?” A low voice resounded through the hall, originating from one of the side passages. Eyes turned to look, and an old man stepped out of the shadows and into the hall. Bald and without any facial hair beyond his long beard, the old man’s sharp eyes were staring and laughing at the room. Around him, he was wearing a dark blue robe with golden patterns on it, covering his whole body.

“Nylen…” King Sarjace scowled, seeing the Headmaster of Zorin Academy.

“Grandmaster.” Evelyn turned and gave a respectful bow.

The nobles hushed at the sudden intrusion.

“What are you doing here?” The king questioned with a displeased face.

“A little bird told me something interesting was going on today at the palace. To think such a thing occurred, it is quite unfortunate.” Nylen replied, answering without purpose. “As for your previous question about the reasons to make amends, let me show you.” He brought out his left arm from underneath the robes for all to see. A marble arm extended from a stump of flesh, moving and waving in the air.

“?! Grandmaster? What exactly-”

“The boy.” Nylen spoke, locking eyes with the King and cutting Evelyn’s question short. “This happened five years ago when I attempted to test his true strength. This, is the reason why you should be making amends and not be thinking about imprisoning him.”

 

—

 

Enveloped in darkness, the dim lights of thousands of houses and light apparatuses gave the city a haunting glow. Guards patrolled the streets vigilantly, making sure nothing shady occurred while the city slumbered.

In a house within the third ward, the entity stirred.
Making sure its master was asleep, an orb of light emerged from its master’s body, the events earlier in the day still fresh on its mind.

It had stood idly by as its master was ridiculed and humiliated. It had not interfered as its brothers bickered senselessly, disgracing their master even further. Because of that, its brothers were even now, still being restrained by their master’s powerful will for their uncouth actions. Yet for the entity, it was free to move as it pleased. It had waited patiently all this time. It was time to repay the humiliation suffered by its master.

Against its master’s will, the orb of light phased through the window, flying into the air.

Night crawlers, still out and about saw the night sky light up as a beam of pure white light emerged over the 3^rd ward for an instant before shooting through the night sky, vanishing in the direction of the Inner wards.

 

—

 

The man was trying to sleep, but his mind was preoccupied with various events. The day had been an irritable day, and he could not help but feel frustrated.

He almost lost his temper in that hall today.
He had been courteous and generous enough to offer such a boon to the commoner, and like a stupid peasant, the boy unscrupulously shoved it back in his face. Three times he offered, and three times he was denied. Never before had someone humiliated him so.

The old man’s words today angered him and his thoughts delved on them, especially the old man’s departing words. ‘You are delirious if all you can equate the boy to is a mage of Malgin strength.’ The words rang in his mind, mocking him.

He knew that all the nobles who were there today held him in contempt. The bastards did not dare show it, but he knew what they were thinking.

Unable to sleep, King Sarjace sat up. Looking at his beautiful wife sleeping blissfully, he got out of bed and pulled the blanket to cover her before leaving the room, going for a midnight stroll to clear his mind.

Making his way to the chamber door,

‘Found You.’ A voice echoed in his head amongst his thoughts. Suddenly, the dark room turned bright as day.

“What is-?!” He yelped in surprise.

“For Your Insolence.” The voice spoke to him once more. This time, it came from behind him. Turning around, an orb or light was hovering by the window, illuminating the bedroom. The orb was pulsating, each time growing brighter than the last

“Who is it?! Who’s doing this?!” He barked, demanding answers.

“Sarjace?” His wife’s sleepy voice questioned.

“Humiliation. We Will Not Stand For It.” The voice replied, speaking sharply and fastidiously as if not taking breaths in between.

“Who are you?!”

“You Have Eyes Yet You Do Not See. I Relieve You Of Such Luxury.” The orb pulsed, hovering closer to him.

“GUARDS! GET IN- UAAAAHHH!” The orb pulsed one last time, and a hot intense pain seared his eyes.

The sound of the door opening along with guards and his wife’s shouting could not overcome his screams of pain. As the pain diminished, he opened his eyes to a world of darkness.
“NUAAAHHH!!” He cried out. His vision had been robbed.

 

***

 

-Elsewhere-

Silent footsteps woke her from her slumber.
Two purple eyes sprung open and her mouth curved into a smile. Sitting up on the bed, he saw that it was barely past midnight. Moonlight shone through her window, illuminating part of the room.
She turned and looked at the person beside her. A young man of no more than fifteen with beautiful pale skin and a handsome childish face that attracted her the moment she laid eyes on him. The boy was naked, lying next to her without moving a muscle.
She gently caressed the side of his cheek, feeling his cold handsome face. She slid her hands down to his neck, touching where she had strangled him during sex.

“Forgive me, love. I couldn’t help myself.” She smiled, leaning down to give the young man’s cold lifeless lips a kiss before getting off the bed.
Stark naked, she moved to her wardrobe and donned a thin robe.

As she expected, there was a knock on her door.
“Mistress Kaval. Your guest is here.” Someone called from the other side.

“Did you bring him to the tower?” She asked, opening the door.

“Yes Mistress.”

“Perfect. I’ll go see him right now.” She opened the doors to depart, “Oh, and Trav? Get someone to come remove that trash from my bed before he starts to contaminate my room with his foul stench.” She instructed, leaving her room with nothing on but the thin, almost transparent robe.

She sauntered through the halls of her keep, listening to the pleasant sounds of the night and taking in the cool air. Once in a while, screams from the dungeon’s torture chamber would add itself to the cacophony of insect noises, creating a perfect harmony of natural agony.

She made her way down to the ground floor and out the western side of the keep, moving to a secluded area she called ‘the tower’. It was aptly named because of the countless bodies impaled by earth spikes and left to hang and rot in the air, feeding the birds.

“Hello, Vaylen.” She greeted as she approached the tower.

“What is this sickening structure? The putrid stench alone makes me want to throw up.” The man asked, looking up at the tower.
The man was wearing a black cloak that covered him from head to toe, helping to hide him in the shadow of the spikes.

“I made it myself from those who displeases me. You don’t like it?” She narrowed her eyes like a predator eyeing her prey.

“I- uh. F-forgive me, I thought…”

“What? What were you thinking?” She asked, moving next to him and putting her face right next to his.

“F-forgive me… I wasn’t thinking.” The man quickly got down on his knees.

She quickly invoked an incantation and an earth spike jutted out of the ground, stopping right beneath the man’s chin. “Should I add you to the tower, Vaylen?”

“M-mistress, please. I b-beg you…”

“Just kidding,” The spike retracted and merged back into the ground. “I find this place quite repulsive myself, but it is a fitting place to remind all you bugs about who’s in charge.” She returned a gentle smile. “Well, let’s get down to business, shall we? What’s on your master’s mind this time? To have sent you all the way out here, it must have been quite important.”

With a quick incantation, two stone seats rose up and she gracefully sat down. Across from her, the man nervously took his own seat.

“M-mistress. My lord has been quite apprehensive about the escape of his younger brother. He wishes for confirmation to alleviate his anxiety. If that brat somehow gets back to Karathas, everything we’ve done for the last four years could be in jeopardy.”

“Such unfounded fears, good Vaylen. I assure you the boy will never make it back to Karathas. From the information my team has gathered, it seems they were sailing for Port Novierre, but the ship never arrived.”

“You don’t think…”

“That’s a possibility, but even if it’s not the case and they are still in Unotus, we will find them. Go back and tell your master not to worry.”

 

 

Kaidus weaved his body, swerving and evading the flurry of slashes coming his way. Noticing an opening, he twisted his upper body to the side and extended his right arm, returning a thrust while simultaneously dodging a diagonal downward strike.

Instead of dodging the thrust, Troyle parried it with the practice sword in his left hand. He quickly launched a left kick into his son’s right side, seeing that it was unprotected. Like an acrobat, his son flipped backward, evading the kick and delivering a quick strike at his leg while in the air.

“You’re getting slow, father.” Kaidus grinned, landing gracefully into a defensive stance.

“It’s the price one pays for growing old.” Troyle replied with a smirk while striking at his son once again, paying no attention to the stinging sensation in his leg.

“The Captain’s twice your age.” Deflecting the tip of Troyle’s sword that was going for his left shoulder, Kaidus retorted.

“The captain has-” Troyle quickly switched his right hand into a reverse grip, barely catching a counter from Kaidus’ right sword. “As I was saying, the captain has the benefits of magic.”

“He doesn’t use magic-” With his sword sliding downward, Kaidus quickly shoved it into the sandy ground. “-much.” using it to support himself, he leapt forward with his whole body, dodging an incoming slash.

“Cheeky litt–Whoa!” Troyle spun his body to the side as a kick followed by a slash came straight down in front of him. Dodging the boy’s aerial attacks, he kicked at the sword that was shoved into the ground—throwing his son off balance. Before the boy could recover, he spun his left sword into a reverse grip.

*Clack!* *Thwack!!* *Clack!* Three consecutive strikes.

Rubbing his left arm where he failed to block his father’s second attack, Kaidus quickly retreated a distance.

“Not too slow, I hope.” Troyle sneered.

“Just a light graze.” Kaidus grinned, seeing that everything was a ploy to get him to lower his guard.

It was their first sparring session ever since his return to Ferrent. As always, they were sparring in the courtyard of the Varath house as their own house lacked a backyard and was too small. They had arrived in the early morning, and have been fighting for quite some time already. An audience of guards and servants had gathered, watching silently from the sides.

“Father wait. I want to test out something.” Kaidus stopped the session and took a simple stance.

“You’re a year too early to be testing out techniques, boy. Just come at me.” Troyle replied with a wry smile.

He had seen the boy’s skills, having been at the front of the competition. But now, going head to head against the boy, it brought him a whole different level of understanding. After only three years, his son had grown into a formidable opponent and he was already struggling to keep up.

The boy was flawlessly incorporating single sword maneuvers into the Formless Blade Style, and from their exchanges, he could feel faint traces of Dalzak’s ‘Severing Fang’ Style. Even his son’s heavy strikes were reminiscent of Captain Zikale’s flawless techniques that brought out the full power of each swing. It was like fighting a combination of himself, Dalzak, and the captain at the same time.

A year was an exaggeration, a balm for his ego than anything. There was no telling how easily his son would be able to defeat him soon. The boy’s attacks were reaching further than before. They were much faster and stronger with each successive hit, and not to mention the boy’s incredible speed that will easily surpass his own quite soon.

As a father, he felt nothing but pride along with a sense of vicarious fulfillment, seeing his son’s growth.

“Here I come.”

Troyle lowered his stance and brought forth his swords, ready to engage. He saw as the boy closed in on him, and then a sudden flash of movement. The wooden practice sword’s tip was against his chest before he could even counter. “You…” He was shocked. It was the draw technique he’d seen Kaidus avoiding in one of the matches during the competition.

“I still haven’t gotten it right yet. It looks slow compared to the original.” The boy replied.

“Slow?” Troyle chuckled. It’s been barely six days since the competition. He couldn’t help but laugh and be amazed. “What’s it called?” he inquired curiously.

“Don’t know. Never got a chance to ask,” Kaidus pulled back to reset his position. “What do you think?”

“Terrifying. If this was a real fight, I’d be on the ground right now.” Troyle answered as a chill ran down his back. “Come. Show it to me again.”

 

…

 

“We’re already in the 11th ward. Are you really not going to visit any of them?” Troyle asked.

Having finished their sparring session, they were leaving the courtyard so that the guards could resume their morning training.

“I’ve thought about it, but I see no reason to right now.” Kaidus replied, walking into the manor. The subject was about the various invitations he had received over the past couple of days.

“Money, status, lord’s daughters. I see three very good reasons.” Troyle grinned back at him.

“Was the latter why you entered the competition all those years ago?” Kaidus interrogated with a smile, feigning ignorance.

“What? No. We needed money. You know that.” Troyle quickly defended himself.

“I know.” Kaidus replied with a wicked smile.

“Gah… Anyways, winning the competition and being a mage, such options are within your grasp.”

“But I’m not interested in those options.” Kaidus replied, walking beside his father.

Being affiliated with the Varath and Ravon house was already enough for him. To actively seek and involve himself with those of the nobility was not something he wanted to do.

“It doesn’t matter if you’re interested or not. I’m just saying you should go and get to know some of them. Make some connections with those of the inner wards. You don’t want to be like me who could barely support his family because all he could do is swing his sword around. You’re smarter than that.” Troyle rebutted solemnly.

“Ah, but look at where that has taken you.” Someone spoke from behind. “Was it not your sword that landed you in my employ? Was it not your sword that has protected me all these years?” The lord was right behind them.

Wearing a thick gray robe made of fur over a white attire, he looked quite dashing. Almost majestic.

“My lord, it’s beneath you to eavesdrop.” Troyle reprimanded.

“Nonsense. It’s exactly like me to do such a thing,” the lord grinned. “Especially when you’re trying to persuade Kaidus about such matters like involvement with the nobles. I believe I should also have a say, as I–.”

“I’ll just talk to him later then,” Troyle quickly replied, cutting off the lord. “What are you doing here though? I thought you were waiting for me in your study?”

“I was, but I decided to come see what was going on after hearing that Kaidus also came with you. That was quite the show you two put on.”

“Just a little morning exercise. Can’t very well spar like that at home.” Troyle returned a smile.

“I’m not complaining. It looked like it was helping to motivate the men.”

“Really?” Troyle’s face twisted into a surprised smile.

“Someone who’s getting beaten by his own son. The men looked to be quite enthusiastic, training so that such a thing would not happen to them.” Lord Varath snickered.

“What are you really doing here?” Troyle reiterated, ignoring what the lord just said. His smile was gone and his face, an impassive mask.

Laughing and not paying any attention to Troyle, Lord Varath turned to Kaidus. “I acquired quite a few books these past three years. How about taking a gander at them? We can discuss about them later if you decide to stay, or some other time.”

“I was actually thinking about going to the library to see if you got any new additions.” Kaidus replied, chuckling at the lord’s joke and returning a smile.

A devilish grin appeared on the lord’s face. “Perfect. You remember Artroloxsi Velantrius? The compendium by Hinnegin R. Rucin? Cost quite a bit, but I managed to track down and procured a copy of it two years ago. You should definitely take a look at it if you’re interested in the mages of old.”

“I’ll do that. Thank you.”

“You know where the library is. I’m sure you’ll be delighted. Now, your father and I must talk about today’s agenda.” Putting his arm over Troyle’s shoulders, the lord ushered them away.

 

—

 

“Hmmmm~ hmm hm hmmmmm… Hmmmm~ Hm hmm hmmmm~”

In a circular room decorated with thousands of books, a young girl was walking along a raised platform, humming as she worked diligently. Picking up a handful of books from a stack on the ground, she began placing them into the shelves.

‘Verunis Insepaton’ Sylvia read the name and placed it onto the book shelf.

‘Varnagh the Shadow’s Siege’ Like the last, she placed it into the shelf for V.

A while ago, her father had mentioned that he had left a stack of books in the library and wanted her to help return them to the shelves. It was an unusual request since there were many servants around, but it didn’t matter to her as she was no stranger to menial tasks. She was already quite capable despite her age. She ran errands for her parents, she knew how to shop for grocery, how to cook, how to clean, even gardening was part of her skillsets. She didn’t know when, but such activities had become a norm to her.

She especially loved cooking for her parents and seeing the joy it brought them. To cook for those she loves and seeing them enjoy it, there were few things more rewarding in her opinion.

“Hm~ m mm hmmm~” She continued to hum as she placed the books in their respective sections.

‘Zarak Caverns’ Wonders’

With the last book back on the shelf, she followed the platform around to where the stairs were, blissfully humming and engrossed with a sense of accomplishment.

The large double doors were still wide open like how she left them. Pulling one side to a close, she spotted someone sitting in the middle of the room smiling back at her.

“K-Kaidus!?” Sylvia blurted out, startled to see the boy.

“Good morning, Sylvia.” He greeted, waving to her.

“G-Good morning.” She managed a reply as she tensed up. ‘No. no. please don’t do this!’ She told herself, feeling her nerves leaving. “H-how long have…” Her face became flushed before she could even finish the question, realizing what she’d been doing.

“Not long.”

“Did you h-hear?” She asked, trying to look calm. Deep inside, she was ready to dash out of the room and lock herself away.

“I apologize. It was a very beautiful tune and I could not help but listen.” Kaidus stood up and lowered his head.

*BLAM!*

“S-sorry!” She quickly apologized for accidently slamming the door that she was pulling.

It was too much. She had not expected to see him again so soon after the competition and in such a situation.

“Are you alright?” Kaidus asked, looking at her curiously.

“Y-yes. Sorry…” Her left leg was outside of the room, and she was contemplating about whether she should run or hide from her embarrassment.

“Do you know where your father keeps the newer books?” Kaidus questioned, taking a few steps around the room.

“Newer books?.. I think they’re over there by the bottom shelf to your right.” Her voice carried a nervous muffled tone, and she could hear it. She quietly prayed for him not to notice.

She thought she’d grown accustomed to him with the time they spent together, but that was not the case. Like the sun, he was too dazzling. Ever since the competition, she couldn’t help but revert to her old self, seeing how much more amazing he’d become. Those words of thanks when they went for snacks had smitten her completely. She had to avoid him afterwards, afraid that he would start to dislike her.

“Thank you.” Kaidus turned around and bent down to look through the shelf. “That song you were humming. It’s Lady by the bay isn’t it?” He asked without turning to look at her.

“Y-yes. Adalina was humming it and I liked it, so I asked her to teach me…” She gave an uneasy reply.

“She used to hum it all the time when I was younger. It is one of my favorites, it was why I couldn’t interrupt you. Sorry.”

Sylvia’s eyes lit up. “Really?” A piece of her mind calmed down at his words.

“Yes.” Kaidus stood up and there were two books in his hands. “So please, don’t be embarrassed. Like I said, it was a very beautiful tune.”

“Thank you…” Her desire to flee began to slowly recede, and she took a step back into the library.

In front of her was the young man whom she had worked tirelessly for. ‘Where would I end up if all I did was run?’ She asked herself. She had already made her decision all those years ago. The only thing that was left, was to try her best and see where the future leads.

“It is not that good, but I can hum it for you again if you want…” She offered with every ounce of courage in her, taking another step into the room.

“Please do. I would love to hear it again.” Kaidus pleaded, taking a seat.

With a bright smile on Kaidus’ face, she couldn’t help but comply.

 

***

 

With the setting sun and darkness’ descent, the Port burst into life for a second time. Sailors, dockhands, street-wenches, travelers, all matters of unsavory individuals were out and about, looking for relief from their dreary lives. The taverns along the streets echoed with laughter and shouts, promiscuous moaning could be heard coming through the dark alleys, and drunkards walked the streets regaling tales of days long past.

A shabby man haggardly made his way through the busy portside street, blending in seamlessly as a beggar. His previously tidy and pale yellow hair was now long and a dirty brown color. His face was rife with dirt and grime, and an unkempt beard occupied his face. The man held his right arm to his chest in a sling and walked with a limp. No one paid any attention to him, trying their hardest not to notice lest they made eye contact. Making his way through the streets, the man made a turn into an alley, moving away from the lights and people.

In the darkness, his limp disappeared and he quickly navigated his way through the twists and turns of the alleyways, arriving in front of a dilapidated building far away from the hustle and bustle of the Port’s night life.

*knock, knock, knock*

Three quick knocks.

*Knock… Knock…*

Two delayed knocks.

*Knock… Knock, knock.*

A delayed knock followed by two quick ones.

Soon after, the door opened and two people silently came out. One was an old bald man supporting himself with a cane while the other was a young boy of no more than seven. The old man wore nightclothes and looked ready to retire for the night, but the young boy was wearing a dark traveling cloak.

“Is everything prepared?” The old man whispered.

“Yes. They’re sailing tonight.” The man answered. “Come. We don’t have much time.” He held out his hand to the young boy. The young boy took his hand and moved to stand beside him.

“Thank you for everything you’ve done, Eralus.” The man made a gracious bow before walking away.

“Biran.” The old man stopped him. “We may not be related by blood, but know that you’ll always be my son. Come back and visit again.”

“…Thank you for everything, father. Goodbye.” Without looking back, he vanished into the darkness with the young boy.

…

They meticulously made their way through the alleys and toward the docks, careful not to be spotted by anyone.

“Almost there. Just a little bit further.” He encouraged the young boy.

“Biran the sea isn’t safe at this time of the year.”

“I know, but all the roads are guarded and we’re too far from the capital to get there safely on foot. If we can avoid the pirates and get to Port Novierre, it’ll only be four day’s ride from there to Karathas. It is our best option.”

“… You don’t really think–”

“I don’t know, but my priority is to get you back to Karathas safely. You remember what I told you?”

“Uh huh.” The young boy replied in affirmation.

“Good. Come on.” He picked up the child and ran.

Stealthily making their way behind a warehouse, “The silver god descends in all his glory, furious and enraged by the wisdom of men.” The man named Biran whispered into the darkness.

“For death was his gift, and suffering, his will.” Someone answered from the shadows.

“I am Gabban, the one who seeks.”

“And I am Narlok, the one who shows.” A lanky man stepped out of the dark and ushered them inside the building through a false wall.

Inside, they followed the man through the different storage rooms until they reached the back of a room filled with crates of fruits. Moving some of the crates, the lanky man revealed a hidden passage leading down into the ground. “This passage leads to a channel that empties into the sea,” the man opened it up. “Your ship has already left the docks in case something happens. After descending, keep to the left and stick to the walls. The path will lead you to Arelai. She will take you to the ship.” The man explained.

Surely enough, waiting for them at the end of the channel was a young woman on a rowboat. Without words, they silently got on the boat and the young woman rowed them out to sea.

To the ship that would take them one step closer to home. One step closer to the truth.

“Ahhh!!!” The girl cried out. Faint traces of magic began emerging around her.

Kaidus quickly grasped what was happening. Swiftly moving to her side, he grabbed Naleen’s shoulders and turned her upward to face him. Although surprised at the sudden development, “You need to focus, Naleen! Calm your mind!” He bellowed, trying to get through to her.

She looked at him with confusion before groaning in pain once more. “Naleen! Listen to–!” He attempted once again, but the girl’s body went limp and flames erupted around them.

“Kuh-!” ‘How troublesome’ He grimaced, retreating as an inferno flared up around the girl. It whirled about, protecting her.

He didn’t know why, but she had awoken. The sudden burst of magic protecting its owner was evidence enough. Although mages rarely lost conscious during the process, all awakenings were different depending on circumstances.

He couldn’t help but stare, wondering if he needed to do something or stand back and watch.

Sensing movement behind him, he turned around to see that a man and woman, both wearing uniforms of the Mystiks guild had jumped onto the stage.

“Move away, boy!” The man shouted.

Kaidus hastily retreated backward, thankful for their arrival.

“… –vasu enarus! Ruziierus!” The woman invoked, bringing her arms up.
A torrent of water suddenly surged forth from her arms. Moving like a serpent, it wrapped itself around the inferno spire. *TTSSSAAAA* a screen of steam quickly covered the stage, impeding their visions. “Sylas!” The woman shouted through the mist.

“…-nua! Azure Gale!!” The man invoked, and a powerful gust descended. Blowing away the steam, it revealed a water cyclone where the fire had been.

The water slowly stopped its rotation and slithered back to the woman who conjured it. “Well done.” The woman spoke, touching it. The serpentine form vanished, and the water splashed down onto the stage.

As quickly as it happened, the fire was gone and everything was calm again.
Within a charred circle on the stage, a young lady was lying unconscious on the ground, sleeping peacefully as if nothing had happened. Parts of her leather armor and clothing were singed, but there were no burns or damages to the girl.

“Are you alright?” The man questioned, arriving at his position with a few quick strides.

“I am. Thank you.” Kaidus replied, offering a thankful nod.

“Good.” With a single word, the man walked past him, moving to check on the girl.

“We’ll take care of it from here. Please go and rest for your next match.” The woman who conjured the water serpent reassured him before moving to join her companion.

“Uh… Contestant Naleen is no longer able to continue. Young Kaidus advances to the final eight!” The announcer shouted awkwardly from the judge’s area.

The audience that had gone quiet over the display of magic went into an uproar.

As he walked to the edge of the stage, a woman ascended the stairs and ran past him. Following her was an imposing man who was giving off a very peculiar aura.

“Naleen! My daughter, is she…”

“Congratulations on your victory, Kaidus.” The man commended, stopping before him.

“Thank you, my lord.” He made a respectful bow to the older man. It was not lord Gelrin the Royal Knight Commander, but the Commander’s son, Huin.

“Your previous matches were quite spectacular. Seeing this one, I want to apologize for Naleen’s lack of skills.”

“Not at all. She was a great opponent.”

“She will be stronger now, thanks to you.” A smile appeared on the lord’s stoic face.

Kaidus smiled. “I’m looking forward to the next time we cross swords again.”

The lord’s grin widened. “I will let her know. Good luck on your upcoming matches.”

“Thank you.”

“Until next time then.” The lord nodded before walking away to join his wife and daughter.

Without looking back, Kaidus walked off the stage.

 

—

 

Anise pulled him through the crowd.

Many were talking about what they just saw, but others cheered for him as he and his sister made their way away from the stage.

Having already explained what happened on stage to Troyle, he was currently going to the food stalls with his little sister to get a snack. 

People surrounded them as they moved toward the back of the audience.

“It’s him!”

“Kid! You better keep winning!” Someone yelled.

“How old are you?”

“Can you teach me how to fight?” A young boy questioned.

“STOP IT! Stop bothering my brother!” Anise clung onto him, repelling anyone who got too close with her free hand.

“It’s alright, Anise. Just keep walking.” He patted her head, keeping her moving.

After they broke through the spectators, Kaidus took a moment to look at his sister. “It’s been a long day. You’re not tired?”

“Nope.” She grinned, clinging onto his arm and pulling him toward the food stands.

“Well then, what do you want to eat this time?”

“I want qorkos wings again.” She happily answered.

Beyond stage two’s audience, onlookers paid little attention to them, allowing them to reach the food stalls easily.

“Three wings please!” Anise told the cook as their turn arrived.

“That’ll be three and six, little lady.”

“Here.” Kaidus handed two double bits to the man.

“No Kai! I’m paying!” Anise exclaimed, pulling his arm away. Reaching into a concealed pocket on her dress, she pulled out a little pouch. “Two. Four.” She counted before handing the four erns to the man.

“Thank you, and one is your return.” The man gave them a smile, handing back a metallic kui bit before giving them their wings.

Seared on an open flame then cooked in a mixture of thick sweet sauce, the wings were delectable. Anise joyfully nibbled hers, blissfully chewing through bones that had softened to a gelatinous texture as they walked back. Kaidus enjoyed his own while holding onto the extra for Troyle.

…

 

The return was less hectic, as many people were engrossed in the current match on stage. Forcing their way through the crowd, they joined Troyle at the front.

“Anise got one for you.” He handed the wing to Troyle.

“What about you two?”

“We ate ours on the way back.”

“I see. Thanks, baby.” Troyle smiled.

“I’m not a baby anymore!” Anise willfully pouted in reply.

On stage, two female contestants were fighting it out. Both looked exhausted, but were fighting with all they’ve got.

“And Marin takes the win! She’ll be advancing to the final eight!” the announcer shouted after one of the women manage to unbalance the other, pinning her down to the ground at sword point.

Workers quickly climbed up onto the stage to clean and prepare it for the next match.

Shortly after, the announcer moved from the judge’s area and got onto the stage, declaring the beginning of the final phase for the competition.

In the final phase, the area of stages three, four, and five are remodeled by mages of the Mystiks guild into a final arena. During that time, stages one and two hosts the final eight—four contestants to each stage—until the last two, who will then ascend the grand arena to have a final match in front of everyone for the title of champion.

The audience began shuffling as more and more people congregated around stage two.

With the audience settled, the announcer once again got on the stage. “Thank you all for waiting! Without further ado, the matches to determine the finalist from stage two will commence!”

The crowd thundered with applause and cheers.

“First one up is the young man who rose through the competition with his amazing speed and skills! Kaidus!”

“I’ll be right back.” Kaidus told his father and sister, making his way toward the stairs once again.

“Win! Kai!” Anise shouted from behind.

“From stage three, a dashing young man who recently attained knighthood. With a lifetime of training and discipline, he represents the Knights! Vion!”

A handsome young man wearing dark leather armor climbed up from the opposite end of the stage, walking toward the middle. There was a red sword painted on his chest, and he held a long but slim one-handed sword.

Stopping a couple paces away, the man simply stared back at him.
“Good evening. Let us have a good match.” Kaidus made a courteous bow.

“Hmph.” Vion gave him a look of disdain and fell into a stance.

‘Very well…’ Kaidus thought, taking a stance of his own.

The last time they saw each other was over five years ago. Considering Vion was now a knight, he had expected the man to have grown more respectable.

Unfortunately, that was not the case.

 

—

 

As repulsive as ever, the commoner was trying to act beyond his station.

He has hated the boy ever since their first meeting.

He was sick and tired of hearing about the boy all those years ago, and felt insulted being compared to the lowly rabble by his father and grandfather.

Not only did his grandfather bathe the commoner with privileges, for the head of the esteemed Ravon house to have bowed so low to a commoner, it was disgraceful.

With the boy standing in front of him, all he could think about was teaching the bastard a lesson and showing him where he stands. With magic being prohibited, this was his chance.

Having taken an aggressive stance, he was holding his sword in an overhead draw and draping it over his back. His legs were ready to spring into action at any moment, while his left hand was prepared to intercept or return any incoming attack.

He waited patiently for the signal.

“Begin!”

Vion quickly dashed forward. With his long sword, he swiped out in a horizontal arc, not allowing the boy to advance.
*CLACK!* The sound of impact.
His sword was caught in between the boy’s two shorter swords.
He attempted to pull his sword back, but the boy pushed it forward and upward, before dashing straight at him.
Holding his sword awkwardly with his elbow cocked back and the sword in the air, he couldn’t attack. Instead, he twisted his body and kicked with his left foot.
“GUH!” Instead of landing his kick, his leg was throbbing with pain.
Following the spin, he quickly lashed out again with his sword at where the boy was, only to cut air.

The boy appeared beside him and slammed two swords into his chest, knocking him back.

“You! You’re using magic!” He hollered. It was impossible for the little bastard to be moving that fast.

“You can’t even detect my presence when I’m right in front of you. Magic would be wasted on you.” The boy spoke, calmly staring back.

“Arrogant little shit!” He spoke loud enough so that the boy could hear before lunging at the boy again. Pain blazed through his right side, and he couldn’t help but fall down. ‘What the fuck is going on?!’ His mind shouted, unable to grasp what was happening. There was no other explanation than magic, yet the judges were not saying anything. He stood up again, pointing his sword toward the commoner.

The boy suddenly vanished, and sharp pains dropped him to his knees.

Kneeling, the boy walked in front of him. With a last desperate attempt, Vion slashed out once again. Before he could finish the swing, a pressure assaulted his chest and pushed him onto the ground.

The boy stood above him, pinning him down with a sword to his chest and stepping on his sword hand.

Surely enough, the announcer called out the victor.

 

***

“!” Naleen sat straight up, breathing heavily.
Looking around, she was sitting on a fluffy bed. There was a box of training swords on one corner of the room, while two large dressers and a wardrobe adorned one of the walls. In the center of the room were two chairs and a table. ‘My room?’ she realized.

Taking a gander at her window, the light outside suggested it was still daytime.

The last thing she could remember was her frustration and an overbearing feeling before the pain knocked her out. Right before that, she remembered Kaidus shouting something at her. ‘What happened?’ She questioned herself.

She was obviously home and it was still day, but she couldn’t tell what time of the day. It was almost evening when her fight against Kaidus started, so the competition must have ended.

Her arms and legs felt weird, and there was a different sensation in her body. It was an odd feeling, mixed in with all the pain and fatigue she had accumulated throughout the tournament.

Getting off the bed, she realized she was wearing a nightgown.

Her legs gave way as soon as she stepped onto the ground and she fell onto the floor.

“Naleen!” A voice shouted from the doorway.

Looking up, “Mother?”

“How are you feeling? Are you hurting anywhere?” Her mother ran over to her, embracing her.

“I feel fine. Just a little weak. What happened to me?”

“Thank goodness!” Her mother tightened the embrace.

“W-what happened to me?” She asked again.

“It’s alright, honey. You’ve just awoken to your magic.” Her mother replied, face brimming with happiness.

“My…” She was speechless. Her hands started shaking at what she just heard, and a sense of triumph pervaded through her body. She had been afraid she would remain magic-less like her brother. Elated but scared at the same time, “H-how long have I been asleep?” She managed to ask, trying to divert her mind from the exciting news lest she started shouting with joy.

“Just overnight. Your awakening was quite the exhibition of magic.” Her mother replied, helping her up off the floor. “Let’s get you back on your bed. You need to rest.”

“The competition. What happened to the competition?” Naleen questioned, trying not to think about magic as she crawled back into bed.

“What do you think happened?” Her mother grinned.

“Mother, just tell me.”

“The young boy from the 3^rd ward won.”

“I knew it!” She exclaimed, feeling better about her loss.

“Is that admiration I hear in your voice?” Her mother interrogated with a sly grin.

“No! I mean, maybe a little. It just means that there’s nothing to be ashamed of in losing to him.” She quickly replied, remembering how dominant the boy was during their fight.

‘What am I saying?’ Naleen quickly thought to herself. She had completely forgotten about his little act of mercy and about her anger. “What about Vion? How far did he get?” She asked, trying move away from thoughts about her pitiful state during the match.

“Vion also lost to him. They were matched up against each other in the final stage of the competition.”

A grin surfaced on her face, hearing that her brother lost to the same person. Before she can inquire about the final match, “bRrRrR” Her stomach growled. Her smile instantly turned into one of embarrassment.

“Hehe. Looks like my little girl is hungry. I’ll go tell Arlin to heat up something for you.”

“Thank you…” She gave an embarrassed reply.

“Go ahead and get some rest. I’ll bring it to you when it is ready.” Her mother urged before leaving the room.

Laying on the bed, her mind was racing. She was imagining all the exciting things she’ll be able to do with magic and could barely contain herself from screaming.

 

…

 

While she was having a light meal before supper, two girls came into her room.

“Naleen, are you alright?” Sylvia questioned before they had even reached her bedside.

“My body aches all over but other than that, I’ll live.” She replied with a smile. “What are you two doing here?”

“We heard you woke up and came check on you. How’re you feeling?” Jillian enquired, pulling over one of the chairs in the room.

“Hmm… feeling better than I was earlier today.” She gave a wry smile.

“How does it feel to be a mage?” Jillian quickly got to the point, grinning at her.

“Honestly, I don’t really feel any different. I still have to ask father and grandfather about it, but I’ve been in here all day and they’ve been too busy to visit me.”

“Oh…”

“Can you two tell me what happened? I talked to my mother about it. She said something about a fire?”

“You were swallowed up in a fire, Naleen. You were screaming on the ground and Kaidus came to you. He was shouting something, and then he stepped away right before a fire rose up around you.” Sylvia replied, taking a seat on the bed.

“Hm… fire…. why fire?” She was confused.

“Larant said fire is the simplest element to control. Something about bodies producing heat? He was explaining a lot of things, but I can’t remember.” Sylvia answered.

“Don’t worry about it too much, Naleen. Larant’s awakening was a fiery hare that burnt his room. At least yours wasn’t something so stupid, and you didn’t burn anything except a small part of the stage.” Jillian grinned.

“Really? Hehehe!” Naleen giggled, hearing the absurdity of it.

 

—

 

Kaidus quietly relaxed himself by the window with a book. Beside him, Anise sat silently while reading one of her own.

The Arms competition had ended three days ago.
The final match was against a spear master named Sullivan from western Darsus. The man was great at long distance fighting, but once he got inside the spear’s attack range, he was able to easily take the man down.

Winning the competition, he was given a pouch containing four luminous Rae worth 2000erns, and a custom champion’s token as proof of victory.  

It was quite a big difference from the runner up’s prize of 400erns.

*knock* *knock* *knock* Someone was at the door.

“Ha…” He sighed, getting up to answer it.

“Is this the Paltos house?” A man wearing expensive looking clothes inquired. Behind the man was an extravagant carriage.

“It is.” Kaidus replied.

“Does a Kaidus Paltos live here?”

“He does.”

“Here. A letter from Lord Aliser of the 12^th ward, directed to one Kaidus Paltos. Please make sure to give it to him.” The man handed him a sealed letter before promptly getting back into the carriage and riding off.

‘Another one…’

Closing the door, he opened the folded letter and read through the contents.

It was the same thing he’d been receiving for the past two days: a letter from some lord asking for him to visit, and a promise of employment with lavish gifts and such.

With a thought, the letter went up in flames.