The glow of the day’s eve was quickly vanishing, and throughout the woods, the voices of nocturnal animals were already echoing beyond the obscured silhouettes of the trees. Along the winding road where there should be naught but silence, the muffled sounds of hooves continued to softly drum against the frozen ground, slowly moving south through the evening chill.

“Chi-Ch-Ch-CH-Ch-CH-CH-ChaaraK!”
Territorial cries of nesting dawnbeaks resounded loudly through the rising mist, and the rhythmic trots of the two horses immediately came to a standstill. Shuddering, both horses began whinnying nervously, having sensed the creature that had awoken from its slumber.

In the dim light, Zirus’ two silvery eyes were already glowing menacingly as it slithered out onto Kaidus’ shoulder. With a low-pitched shriek, it paralyzed both horses and silenced their anxious cries before opening its mouth to let out a lethargic yawn. “Ch-chi-ch-ch-ch-ch-ch…” The dawnbeak’s cries traveled through the air once more, and with one look at its master for permission, Zirus propped itself upward to stretch its glorious wings. With a single beat of its two forewings, it propelled itself into the air and catching an unnatural breeze that had suddenly twisted around them, its six pairs of transparent wings flared outward, shooting Zirus up into the sky.

“I don’t think I will ever get used to seeing that thing…” Narissa remarked from behind as she rubbed her horse’s neck to calm the frightened animal.

Watching the growing serpent leave to hunt and feed, “Let us find a spot for the night.” Kaidus proposed as his mare also began taking timorous steps backward.

It has been eight long days since they left the town of Garnikul, and although Narissa’s curiosity had revealed itself shortly after departing the town, two days of forcing her to keep up on the road had quickly simmered her down and made her less inquisitive. Whether it was due to the fatigue of arduous riding or the knowledge that further interrogation would not be welcomed, Kaidus was glad she had understood the subtleties and left his privacy to himself—for the most part. Fortunately for them both, the trip had been a relatively quiet one ever since.

Moving in front, a small orb of light materialized before Kaidus and began to slowly hover into the woods. Promptly dismounting his horse, he led the nervous beast into the trees. Narissa quickly dismounted and followed closely behind.

…

The warm blazes of a small campfire were burning brightly by the time the last of the day’s light disappeared. Having found a nice spot underneath a large overhanging tree, the both of them–exhausted after a long day’s ride–were sitting quietly across one another, just taking in the warmth of the fire. Tied to two trees a few good paces away, their two horses had already been watered and were left to feed on fallen leaves and small plants.

While waiting for the soup by the side of the flames to cook,
“My arms and legs feel like they’re about to fall off.” Narissa complained loudly while slowly massaging her aching legs. Sitting sideways, her head plates were reflecting the glow of the fire, giving them a soft shimmer every time she moved or twisted her body. Her traveling leathers were already off, and she was barefooted while wearing only her upper garments and a black long pants.

Paying no attention to Narissa’s complaints, Kaidus continued to stare at the fire as a smile made its way onto his face.
Having traveled with her in close company for the past eight days, he had learned that she was quite a puerile and impulsive person. Although only a few years younger than his own mother Adalina, where his mother would be more reserved with her words and quietly press forward, Narissa had been fairly vocal ever since their first night out. Long periods of silence appear to unsettle her and when it came to cooking, while he himself had learned how to cook from Adalina, Narissa on the other hand could barely boil water. The presence of an educated lady could be felt in the way she spoke along with how she composed herself, yet for some reason, Narissa herself was trying to keep the presence subdued.

“We passed by quite a lot of people today. Are you not curious why?” Narissa questioned while letting out another pained groan.

“A little.”
Kaidus quickly recalled the hundreds of strangers they had passed by the past few days. It was very different from when it was just Vick and himself. From when they first arrived and would walk for days without seeing a single face.

“Do you think what Shiar said is actually true?”

“It is possible.” He replied as the pot boiled over.

“Conscription orders… what in the world are they thinking? Why drag this half dead country into another pointless slaughter?” Narissa’s voice slowly trailed off into silent contemplation.

“Sometimes-…” Kaidus quickly paused as the conversation with the forlorn king played through his mind all those nights ago. “Sometimes when an arm or a leg gets infected, is it not the best option to amputate the infected limb to prevent it from festering and spreading?” He quietly replied, garnering a look of intrigue from Narissa as he reached over to take her bowl.

“What are you implying?”

“Although I may have just recently arrived, you and I both know that there is something severely wrong with the current state of Malpaars. As it stands, it is a putrefied cesspool, one afflicted with a potent disease that is spiraling this land into destruction. Unless that disease is expelled, beaten, Malpaars will only get worse. This slaughter as you call it may be the last chance that this dying land has of severing its infected limbs. A last push for survival, and possibly a new breath at life.” Carefully ladling a bowl of soup, he handed it back. “Narissa?” He questioned and turned around only to see her staring with her mouth slightly agape in incredulity, and her eyes filled with conflicting struggles.

“… Is that how you truly feel?” She inquired as she reached out and held onto the bowl, not taking it. “Your words, the conviction within them as if you truly believe them… as if annihilation and reestablishment are the only options left.” She quietly stared back. “How can you even say something like that after what you’ve witnessed? Will destruction bring about better days for people in Garnikul? How many more people must die before stability is achieved?”

Kaidus stopped his mindless words. She was right to be troubled, and it was not his place to speak of her world in such a way. “I may have said too much, please accept my apology.” He quickly lowered his head. “I am but an ignorant child. My views are merely extrapolations of what I have discovered through texts and through my limited experiences. If my words have offended in any way, please disregard them.”

“You- you’re lying.” Narissa quickly contested. “The solemnness in your voice, the way you justified Malpaar’s circumstances as if substituting it in place of something else entirely.” Her face twisted into one of alarmed curiosity. “What exactly are you hiding? What have you seen?”

‘It is not for you to know.’ His mind echoed, but instead, “I must confess, I did not stay with the Droxxon mercenaries for three years without seeing a thing or two about the world’s truth. The vile domains outside of Ferrent, of things and people that are better off absent from this world. From this plane. My time with them has shown me that my life within the city has been one of selfish peace and joviality, and it seems to have given me a harsher opinion on such truths.”

“Kaidus…” Narissa said with a hushed voice.

“But who am I to express how the world should be, right? I’m sorry for spouting such thoughtless words without taking your stance into account. Let us eat.” He added and quickly went back to his seat, careful not to drop the bowl of hot soup in his hand.

“…” After a silent moment of staring into her bowl, Narissa quietly dug into her dinner, her mind lost in thought.

 

—

 

Two days later.
Hovering in the air, Zirus silently surveyed the trees beneath for movements. It was evening, and like it had done ever since choosing to follow its master, it was out hunting again. Circling above the trees, the light of the setting sun illuminated its silver underbelly, giving it a reddish hue to match the burn of the horizon.

Jerking its head to the side, the fleeting movements of a scavenging rat moving along the high branches caught its eyes. Angling its wings to descend, Zirus began gliding closer to the prey.

Mindlessly occupied with a small hole in the tree, the rat failed to notice as a pitch-black line swooped down from above.

With a single swipe of its three-pronged tail, Zirus slammed the rodent against the side of the tree before swiftly grabbing onto a protruding branch.
It watched as the stunned rat fell down the tree and it quickly followed after, latching onto various branches as it made its silent descent.
As the rodent landed on the forest floor, instead of going to claim its prize Zirus quietly descended onto one of the lower branches and waited.
Eventually, the rustling of leaves came from around the tree where it was hiding and a small wolf emerged from a thicket.
An iron tailed kavak, exactly what it had been waiting for.

Watching as the kavak slowly approached the convulsing rodent, Zirus quietly released its hold on the branch and allowed itself to drop toward the wolf. Its wings immediately extended outward to catch its fall and, “Kraaauu!” with a devastating roar, it instantly immobilized the wolf.

“Aaaagggah!!”

A cry came from the darkness and Zirus twisted its head to catch the shape of a man screaming loudly in the dark. Focusing its two silver eyes, the screams intensified as the man spotted them. “Shhrrrraaaa!!!” It hissed back threateningly while guarding its prize, not taking its eyes off the man.

“YAaaaaahhhh! Help me!!!” The shadow screamed out and began stumbling away with haste.

Watching to make sure that the man was gone, Zirus quickly swallowed the rat and began ripping into the kavak.

 

—

 

“Kaidus! Did you hear that!?” Narissa shouted, returning to their camp in sopping wet clothes. She had been bathing in the nearby stream and from the looks of it, she had yet to dry off.

“Hear what?” Kaidus questioned while in the midst of stacking their firewood into a small pile.

“Screaming from further down the stream. It sounded like someone’s in trouble.”

“Hm?” He looked in the direction she pointed to. There was nothing but darkness and no sign of anyone else nearby. “I wonder if there are others out here.” ‘Zion?’

‘By Your Willl…’ The spirit replied and a breeze gathered around them. Yet just as it began, “Help! Help me!!!” a barely audible cry came from further down the river exactly as Narissa had said. This time, they both heard it.

“Stay here.” Kaidus quickly instructed and grabbed his sword.

“And be separated in this forest? No thanks.” With a swift refusal, Narissa hastily slid on her traveling boots and grabbed some dried clothes from her bag.

“Stay here and look after our camp and the horses.” He specified before rushing toward the river without waiting for another word from her.

Running toward the screams, the wind whispered to him and Kaidus quickened his pace. “Where?”

Following Zion’s breeze, the cries became louder and louder until he arrived at a man who was crawling on the ground and screaming hysterically. The pitiful man appeared to have lost all his strength and had been crawling for some time, as his clothes were dirtied and caked with fresh and old mud alike.
“Who are you? What happened?” Kaidus questioned, stopping before the man.

The man looked up with a terrified face.
“A m-monster as large as a man! G-glowing eyes, and fangs longer than fingers!” The man hollered loudly and grabbed onto Kaidus’ legs. “Please y-you have to help! It’s coming after me!”

“Monster?” With glowing eyes… Zirus’ peculiar feature quickly popped into his head.

“That horrible s-shriek! It was going to eat me!” Another bout of hysteria came from the man.

“Where did you come from? What are you doing out here this late?”

“I don’t- I don’t know what happened. I lost my way after fleeing from the monster. P-please, you have to-” As if realizing something, the man stopped and attempted to calm himself down. “My little boy- my boy is still waiting for me. Oh, Izal!”

“Is your camp around here?”

“I don’t know. Please, I’m so tired. My boy… he will worry.”

“Which direction did you come from? Tell me.” Kaidus demanded as he lowered himself to help the man up.

“I- I must… I must get back to my…” The man slurred his last breath as he fell out of consciousness.

“Vishan. Search the surrounding forests, see if you can find any other camps.” Kaidus ordered before hefting the man onto his shoulders and returning to their camp.

 

—

 

Hidden within the forests a day’s ride north of Imvera, was a large encampment consisting of hundreds of people. Made up entirely of those who wished to escape the new orders and commands of the Southern Guards, it was a growing community with a small force of men and woman who were fighting for their freedom. After assisting the village of Esperen, they had moved the majority of their forces from the forests surrounding Esperen in an attempt to outpace the growing southern army, and to consolidate their strength.

A number of patched up tents lined a large opening and though it was the dead of night, numerous patrols were vigilantly walking about, keeping their eyes on anything that may spell trouble.

A tall bearded man with an unassuming face and a broken nose sat anxiously by one of the many fires that were burning endlessly around the camp. Surrounded by a few of his men he looked quite calm, yet his body language and the constant glances toward the shadows denoted otherwise.

“Captain, you should get some rest. We’ll keep our eyes out for Jonns.” One of the patrols voiced as they came to sit beside him.

“I will. Just let me warm up a little longer.” The man replied, looking into the flames restlessly.
He had sent out two dozen hunters in an attempt to add to their inevitable food shortage, and now someone was missing. The others had all returned shortly after dusk, yet it was already nearing morning, and the missing hunter still could not be accounted for. Unsure if they had been discovered or not, he could do nothing but sit and wait. ‘I should have sent a search party. He could not have gone far.’ He silently admonished himself, knowing that it was now too late for such wishful thinking.

“Captain! Wake up! … Captain Biran!”

Watching the fire his tired eyes had drowsed off and by the time he realized it, someone was shouting his name. Jolting into wakefulness, “What is it?” Biran promptly questioned the patrol that was shouting in between breaths.

“There are movements from the north. Yazar said he spotted a light heading our way. It could be trouble.”

Great, just what we needed. Biran scowled and tiredly stood up. In hindsight, it had not been a good idea to stay up all night worrying. “Go alert the others and go wake the mercenary who joined us in Esperen. If there is going to be a fight, I wish to have him alongside us.” Though the skirmish in Esperen had been brief, the skills he had glimpsed from the man–as they stormed the surprised group of thieves–had been enough to keep his attention from dismissing the man as ordinary.

With his instructions, those who had been sitting with him sluggishly got up and began arming themselves.

“Captain.” A voice came from beside him and Biran turned to see one of the patrols holding up a full faced iron helmet.

“Thank you.” The helmet along with a full suit of armor had been won from the knight that they killed in Esperen. And although it was the mercenary who had killed the knight, with no one else willing to use it–and his own set destroyed in the destruction of Vilute–after a little negotiation, the set had become his.

Taking the helmet from the patrol, the image of the mercenary’s fleeting footwork and skillful execution surfaced vividly in Biran’s mind.

With Solio’s impeccable shots to free the hostages and the surprise of their ambush, the mercenary had lunged forward toward the knight. With a sweeping blow, he had easily disarmed the startled man and without mercy, slipped half of his slim swords into the gap under the armored man’s left arm. The attack had been so fast, that the knight barely had time to struggle before blood began gushing out of the openings in his armor.
“Vick Laveranus…” Biran quietly voiced the name that the mercenary had given them. Whoever he was, the younger man was more skillful than—Biran–himself, and he would need such skills if they were to continue evading and keeping ahead of their enemies.

…

By the time he donned his armor and got to the northern side of their encampment, a line of warriors were already there with torches in hand and quietly waiting for the incoming unknowns. Amongst them, the mercenary Vick was leaning wearily against the side of a tree.

Though dawn had yet to greet them, the flickering torchlights bounced off his armor as he moved through the small force that had gathered. Biran stepped out into the dark to address them, “I will not have the fighting be done here in our camp,” he spoke, “if it is indeed the enemy, then we will meet them out there in the woods, and we will cut them down before they can get near this refuge. Keep to the shadows and await my commands. Let today’s dawn be illuminated with our victory!” The sound of silent understanding resonated through the group. Biran turned to march into the trees. With practiced motions, the others swiftly extinguished their torches and fell in behind him in the darkness.

…

A wisp emerged in the distance–showering the surrounding trees with light–and Biran quickly motioned for his men to stop. Standing at the front with his eyes on the single visible area, he warily scanned around it for signs of enemies. As it got closer, his body began tightening up at the realization that it was not torchlight, but a ball of pure white hovering through the air.

“Captain?” One of the men questioned apprehensively as the ball approached in the distance, and Biran gripped onto the cold transparent sword that was sheathed at his side. To run or keep on with the ambush, one wrong call and he would doom the rest of his forces along with everyone who were still back at camp.

Biran stilled his hands and his mouth opened, but no words came out. He had already seen the devastation a single mage could cause against a trained unit of Imperial guards and save for a dozen capable fighters, most of those currently with him were farmers and slaves until recently. “Tell Ulyn’s group to withdraw and notify those at the camp. If it is the enemy, I will send someone back with escape orders. We will try to buy you all as much time as we can.” He solemnly replied, touching the hilt of the enchanted blade that had slain so many of their own in Vilute. The coolness of the metal hilt calmed his hand and as he unsheathed the sword, a thin layer of frost began forming on the transparent blade’s edge as it came into contact with the cold air. It was the weapon of their enemies and he hated it, but it was the best he had and something he still needed to return.

Biran gripped the weapon and strode forth as the sound of rustling came through the trees and the orb got closer.

“Hello? Who’s there?” A faint voice called out through the shadows of the trees and everyone stopped. They all watched as the brightness of the orb dimmed and the shadows of two travelers emerged into visibility behind the light. Following the two travelers were also two horses, with one of them carrying someone across its back.

“Show yourselves.” The voice slithered through the air once more and Biran’s arms began shaking with a hesitation that was unknown to himself. “Kuh-Hahahah!” From somewhere to his left, someone began laughing loudly. The mercenary.

“What in the four god’s names are you doing out here?!” Vick questioned with disbelief, his tone filled with surprised laughter. “Everyone! Hold!” The mercenary shouted and stepped out of his hiding spot.

As Biran watched Vick moving toward the newcomers, the small ball of light exploded, and for an instant, night turned into day as the forest was bathed in white. His eyes burned as the sudden burst took him by surprise, and he quickly shielded his eyes. “Vick?” The unknown voice questioned, and Biran struggled to look forward as groans of discomfort came from around him. As his eyes recovered, his whole body began trembling at the sight before them. “By the gods…” The words escaped his mouth and he dropped the enchanted sword onto the ground. With limp arms and heavy feet, he dragged himself forward as the plate armor began weighing down on him. “It can’t be…”

The soft yellowish glow of warm mage flames hovered in the air where the light orb had been, and standing beside Vick, was a familiar youth. The beginnings of an angular chin were forming on the young man’s face, while his cheekbones were obscured by his long black hair that seemed to blend in with the surrounding shadows. Catching them, the boy’s two sharp eyes looked like they were glowing with a golden light, perhaps a reflection of the flames before him.

“How did you find us?” Vick was already asking questions but as Biran approached, the mercenary quickly stopped and gave him a curious look.
Moving through the bushes and outstretched branches, nothing stood in his way as he trudged forward to stand before the young man. The boy turned toward him, and Biran shuddered.
With unsteady hands he hastily took off his helmet. Without looking back to his men, he knelt down toward the entity before him. “My Lord…” Biran spoke, his voice filled with uncertainty and reverence.

“So fate has decreed for our paths to intertwine once more… Biran Naingart, wasn’t it?” It was the very voice he had been hearing in his mind, the voice from that day when he had cursed the gods and given up on life itself.

“And I am grateful that they had deemed it so.” Biran replied, keeping his head down. “On our parting, you instructed me to carve my own path… to think about my decisions so as not to be led by my words and feelings at the time.” He spoke carefully, as if invoking an oath long since forgotten. “I have done so, and I have been searching ever since. Searching, waiting for the day we would meet again.”

“So that is your decision…” A quiet and curt reply, almost like a whisper yet resounding clearly in his ears.

“Yes.” Biran answered, his own voice filled with determination and unfamiliar pride. “My words are who I am. This chance that you have bestowed upon me… use it as you will. My life is forever yours to command.” He placed his forehead against the ground.

“Wait, what is going on here? How do you-” Vick interjected from the side, but quickly stopped upon seeing the significance of what was happening.

“You carry yourself like a true knight, a protector of the people. As for me, I am not a lord nor do I have any such claims.” The boy calmly retorted.

“Say the words and I shall relinquish all that I am, so long as you allow me to serve.” Biran swiftly countered.

“You do not hear me. I will not be able to employ you as others can. Your own men will shun you for working below your station.”

“My loyalty does not demand gifts or payments, and I have seen with my own eyes what you are. In time, others will come to understand why I am kneeling before you, why I have chosen this path. Please, do not turn me away again.” Biran begged.

“What you chose is death. Serve me, and you will die a thankless death. More often than naught, it will be by my hands.”

The boy’s icy voice gripped him like a deadly shade, and this time, the memories of a frozen Vilute flashed through Biran’s mind. “This life is yours. If you ever wish to take it back, I shall gladly oblige.” He steadily replied without a shred of hesitation.

After a long period of silence, “I see you are unwavering in this…” the boy finally spoke.

“I beg of you… name me your kin, make me your sword, your arms, your legs. Give me purpose once more.”

“… Very well.”

Words of consent came through, and Biran lifted his head to look at the boy. In the light of the mage flames, he thought he caught the boy’s eyes flash silver for an instant as voices of concern came from behind. The enchanted sword he had dropped earlier came flying over, only to stop before the young man.

“So you kept it.” A smile appeared on the youth’s face and without words, the boy grabbed the sword out of the air.
Instantly, ice began forming around the blade exactly like it did so long ago in Vilute. The boy then drove the weapon into the ground, also exactly like how he had done it before.

A chilling mist began rising from the hilt and Biran could almost feel the newly imbued power within the weapon. “It is yours now. Take it, and become my kin.” The boy’s words beckoned him, and he slowly stretched out his right arm toward the sword. He could feel something pulsing outward. Power. More power than he had ever held in his hand, more power than he could ever imagine possible within a weapon. His right hand edged forth, and he grabbed onto the frozen hilt. “AaaRRRHGAAAAHHHH!”

Pain he had never known before rushed from the point of contact through his gauntleted arm and into his body. A cold chilling touch that was turning his insides into ice, freezing while impaling him at the same time. The sound of his own men rushed toward him, screaming and yelling, but Biran kept his grip on the sword. With pain running through his body and unsteady legs, he staggered to stand up while reaching for the weapon with his left hand. With both hands, he held tightly onto the frozen weapon and pulled.

“AAAAHHHH!!!”

Icicles exploded around him and his gauntlet, with his plate armor suddenly freezing before shattering into thousands of pieces. As the weapon came into contact with bare skin, his hands began throbbing with concentrated pain as if they had been dipped in lava. Screaming to pull the weapon out, the frozen heat vanished as soon as the sword slipped out of the ground. Breathing heavily, “… This… this is…” He remarked with shock as power flowed from the weapon into his arms, and throughout his body. Biran looked to the youth.

“A gift, and a test of your resolve.” The boy spoke, his voice calm yet containing a hint of astonishment. “Leagues beyond its previous enchantment, the power within that weapon will allow you to repel ice magic and any forms of cold. So long as I live, its enchantment shall never wane.”

An unknown power coursed through him and holding the weapon, Biran quickly understood what his Lord meant. Even though most of his armor and clothes had shattered from being frozen, he could no longer feel the forest’s chill or the freezing breeze around him. “My Lord.” He lowered himself and knelt once more.

Behind Biran, the dozen warriors who had been there that day in Vilute–those who had fought alongside Biran and bore witness to the boy’s descent–all fell to their knees.
Seeing their companions kneeling and sensing that something extraordinary had just been established before their eyes, the other warriors–although confused–lowered their weapons and knelt.

“You shall be the first of my blades. Rise, Biran Vox Naingart.”

Around them, the trees shook as the lost name was once more birthed into the world, uttered by its progenitor.

-Southern Malpaars-

With silent steps and careful movements, his trainings as a mercenary easily revealed themselves as Vick slowly made his way through the underbrush of the forest.
What should have been a quiet morning of hunting had been interrupted by the sound of falling of trees and smoke, and with animals fleeing in all directions, he had decided to investigate the disturbance. As he got closer to the source, the forest begun echoing with the voices of people and he quickly took to the shadows.

Putting away his bow, Vick reached for one of his azurite swords as he edged closer to the opening that had not been there four days prior. Peeking out from the side of a large tree, he spotted a number of tents and various armed men doing busywork around the camp.
Carefully scanning the company, one of the patrols caught his eyes: a portly man who was more round than tall, and carrying a bow in hand. Unlike the other patrols walking about, the man’s movements were light like that of a seasoned hunter. There was an alertness about the portly man, and he held an arrow to his bowstring, always ready for the draw.

“!” Quickly dodging behind the tree, he barely managed to hide himself as the hunter looked in his direction. His right hand tightened its grip on the sword and he grabbed onto the other with his left. ‘How many more are in those tents?’ Vick wondered to himself, having only counted eleven heads that were out and about.

Waiting in complete stillness, the sound of alarm did not go off nor did anyone approach his position.
‘There’s no time for this. I have to warn the village.’ Hastily making up his mind, he ducked back into the undergrowth and returned the same way he came.

Navigating through the forest, he returned to the temporary camp that he had set up that morning in preparation for his kills. The dolsha that he brought with him was grazing quietly on the plentiful mint bushes strewn about, and he quickly saddled the horse.

Due to the slow witted beast being less than compliant with speeding through the trees, it was already high noon by the time he reached the outskirts of the forest. The plains and rolling hills of the land were now in view, and in the horizon, he could almost make out the brown fields of Esperen that had been recently harvested. “Yah!” With a command, the stubborn dolsha began picking up its strides upon the open fields.

…

“You’re back early. Nothing today master Vick?” A man questioned with a smile of contempt as he rode into Esperen.

“No time for this today, Elond. Gather the other guards and meet up at gran’s. I’ve information to discuss.” Leaving the aggravating man confused, he continued through the village toward the Prancing Myrtle.

“Vick?” A comely young lady with short brown hair called out to him as he entered the inn. Wearing an old patched up dress that had been given to her by the owner, she was carrying a tray of drinks.

“Saadra, where’s the old lady?”

“Gran said she was going upstairs for a bit. Is something the matter?”

“Yes. Serve your drinks and go gather the others. Tell your sister to help.” He quickly instructed and dashed up the stairs. “Gran! Gran where are you?! GRAN!”

“Shaddap! I can hear you just fine!” A loud voice bellowed from one of the guest rooms and a small old lady poked her head out of the doorway. “What are you doing back so early, and what did I say about running up the stairs?!”

“I saw people in the forest. We have to make a decision right now.” He replied, and her irritated expression immediately vanished. “I know you and many of the others don’t want to leave but we cannot stall this out any longer. I cannot say for certain that they’ll pass by peacefully, but even if they did, Esperen will not survive what is to come.”

“We’ve already paid our blood taxes, what more do they want from us?!”

“How about let us not wait to find out?”

“Gah- what in the world is happening??”

“Gran, you need to make a decision NOW.” Vick coaxed, spotting her hesitance.

“DAH! Vauun ‘halahk!” The old lady spat out angrily, and stomped toward the back room.

“Kh-Hahahaha!” Vick exploded with laughter, prompting her to turn and glare at him once more before grudgingly entering her room. “Vauun ‘halahk, huh?” He chuckled to himself. Vauun was the name of the god of selflessness, and giver of life. ’Halahk, a gveril insult literally meaning a rotting horn or an unscrupulous and wicked person, which could also be construed as a rotten genital. Her sudden outburst had caught him off guard, and ended up helping to evaporate much of his anxiety.

Although she was stern, short tempered, and stubborn, the old granny was quite lovable and had grown on him ever since their return to Esperen. Currently, their group of twenty-six were occupying four rooms of her inn and in return for the hospitality, were helping her around the place along with running errands and doing menial jobs for the village. Many of the girls had also lent a hand in helping with the year’s harvest, and a few of them were now learning how to farm. From farming, to cooking, to laundry, to delivering messages for the villagers, their group was adapting to the rural life quite rapidly.
He himself had become the inn’s personal hunter, procuring various fresh and raw ingredients per the old lady’s demands.

As the sound of the disgruntled compliance reverberated back to him, Vick grinned and quickly returned downstairs.

Waiting at the bottom, “I sent Sarah to call the others. What is going on?” Saadra questioned, her voice sounding worried.

“Remember that discussion we had a while ago after the tax collection? It’s time. We can’t stay here anymore, and neither can the villagers. The aggregating forces are amassing too close to us already and if we stay, I cannot guarantee that I will be able to protect you all.” With the solemn answer, he could see the sudden turmoil within the young lady. Their new life had just begun, and it was already time to move again. “Do you understand, Saadra?”

“Y-yes. I will go pack right now and help the others when they get back.” She replied, walking past him and up the stairs.

“Should we be worried?” An aged man was staring at him. It was Diller, a regular of the establishment and the person he had almost gotten into a scuffle with when he and Kaidus first arrived in Esperen.

“I asked Elond to gather the other guards. I’ll speak when they’re here.” Vick replied, sitting down by himself at one of the vacant tables.

“Fuck, don’t tell me those bastards are back for more of our stocks? How do they expect us to survive the coming rinol?” One of the customers pondered out loud.

“Those will be the least of your worries once the southern army comes.” Vick replied dryly, knowing full well that his assertions would infuriate them.
Ever since learning about the south’s conscription of able-bodied men, he had been advocating for the abandonment of the village. Jarnlan, a large town to the north had become the focal point of recruitments, and rumors were now coming through—via traveling merchants–that Karpes had begun to follow. It would only be a matter of time before Esperen was embroiled in the events taking place.

“You keep saying that, outsider, but what do you actually know?” Another man questioned. “Even if they do come- actually, I say let them come! I would love to see them try and steal what we do not have. See them take what they have already stolen. There is nothing of worth here for them.”

“Your lives.”
The room went silent.

“Puh- AHahahahhaa!” A chorus of laughter quickly shattered the silence. “Yea, because them boys with spears and swords have nothing better to do than to torment folks like us. Esperen was unaffected the last time there was a war, and as we have already paid our dues, I see no reasons for them come after us this time either.”

The room’s pointless chattering began again. In silence, Vick quietly waited by himself.

…

A number of girls returned and promptly went upstairs to pack on his instructions, yet those they were waiting for never arrived as noon slipped away.

Eventually, *Blam!* the door to the inn slammed open, and one of the men they had been waiting for burst inside. “Everyone! We’ve got trouble!”

“Trouble?” Diller questioned, and shot a glance at Vick.

“They’re coming from the western road! A group of them!”

All eyes looked to him accusingly. “That’s impossible… there’s no way that they noticed me.” Vick stood up from the table and without another word, bolted out of the inn.

…

By the time he arrived at the village entrance, there was already a large group of strangers there. Numbering a little more than a dozen, they were armed and shouting indiscriminately while holding one of the village’s guardsmen at sword point. Along with the group, many people had also gathered near the entrance including those he had called for earlier.

“H-help me! Please!” The hostage screamed.

“Yes, please do help him.” A man with short black hair stepped forward and scanned the line of villagers. Better equipped than the others, he was wearing a set of almost pristine plate armor with only minor dents and scratches. “All we’re asking for is some food and supplies to help feed and strengthen our forces. Share with us what you have, and we shall leave peacefully.”

“The King’s men have already taken what little we had! We’ve nothing more to give!” A lanky woman holding a child in her arms screamed from the side, followed by a number of resounding echoes from the others.

The armored man looked back to their hostage. “It seems they do not value you.”

“P-Please! I- I don’t want to die! Please!” The terrified guard begged again as his captor placed the sword against his neck, holding back only enough to not break through flesh.

“On behalf of the esteemed Lady Inareh, all your provisions are now property of the newly formed Southern Guards. Surrender what has been requested of you, or have it taken by force.”

“What Lady Inareh?! We’ve just paid our dues to the Countess of the south!!”

“The Countess has recently vacated her position. Lady Inareh is in now charge, and she is demanding your loyalty.”

“This- This is robbery! You can’t do this! No!” A man cried out angrily against the abuse.

Having heard enough, a lone shadow shot out of the crowd of onlookers toward the group. Like an arrow he passed the armored man before anyone could react, and from a low angle, his azurite swords flashed upward followed by a piercing cry that tore through the area. “Run!” Vick commanded as the severed hand and sword plopped to the ground. Seeing the witless fool frozen and motionless, he grabbed the guard’s collar with his left hand and forcefully pulled the man away. Flicking his sword out before him, he barely managed to defend against an axe swing from the front.

“M-MY hand!! You cut off my hand!!” There was a loud roared of agony along with the sound of heavy panting and panic.

Swerving away from the frontal assaults that were coming at him, Vick quickly arched his body back to evade a horizontal slice from behind as the armored man attempted to take his head. Using the evasive maneuver, he planted his free hand on the ground and kicked back with his legs for a backflip while at the same time delivering a counter to the man’s chest plate. The slash forced the man back a step, buying himself enough time to quickly regain his footing and reposition himself against the group. Twisting his azurite sword into a reverse grip, he drew his second one and lowered his stance. “You’ve no more hostages. Tend to your wounded and leave.”

“Ngggghnn! Guu- You piece of- Fuck!!” The one-handed man cried out, trembling with pain and anger as the others attempted to stop the bleeding.

“You drew your weapons with the intent to kill. You should have expected nothing less.” He warned with a sharp glare to the group.

“A swordsman?” The armored man felt along the gash that had been inflicted on his chest plate without taking his eyes off of Vick. “Your movements are surprising, but do you think you can fight us all?” Keeping his composure, the man lowered the tip of his longsword to the ground and changed into a two-handed grip. He slowly edged his left foot forward, preparing himself for a death strike as the others drew around him.

Seeing the aggressive formation, “Get back!” Vick shouted to the villagers and quickly adjusted his own stance to better dodge and counter the incoming blows. Judging from their attacks and reactions to his own earlier, he easily outclassed all of them and should be able to win. Yet, from the look in their eyes, he was not their target.

“Go home! All of you!!” Diller’s voice came from behind and for once, he was glad to see the unruly man. Carrying clubs and wood splitting axes, four of them came to his assistance. “Took you all- Tch!” Evading to his right, Vick skillfully dodged a sudden downward slash from the front. “Whatever you do, don’t let them through!” He shouted as another attack came from below. Occupied against two attackers, the others quickly rushed past him, moving after Diller’s group and the villagers.
‘Fuck!’ He cried out internally as his counter attack against the armored man simply slid off.

Without flinching this time, the man barreled into Vick and forced Vick back a few steps. With all his might and pulling on his longsword, the man twisted his body and sent an arching swing at Vick’s side.
 
*Tiiing!*
Metal screamed against metal as Vick was forced to use both his swords to block the attack. His body shook with the force of the blow and the second attacker quickly lunged at him. Instead of retreating, he lowered himself and pushed the armored man’s sword upward, allowing himself to dash under. Releasing his defensive hold against the longsword, he swiftly spun around and immediately threw a slash behind him with his left.
There was the sound of his sword scraping metal briefly as it moved through its horizontal arch, and then the ever-familiar sensation of sharp steel going through leather and flesh.

Unfazed by the attack, the armored man lurched forward as his partner’s chest was sliced into. With sure footings, the man angled his sword before him into a powerful thrust.

Bringing his freehand forward, Vick barely managed to deflect the thrust as it grazed the left side of his stomach. With his right keeping the man’s sword at bay, he twisted his body and brought his left sword up against the armored man’s neck.

“CEASE YOUR ACTIONS!” A voice bellowed through the sound of fighting and screaming. Before them, two of the villagers had been caught and were being dragged forward with knives to their necks. “Drop your weapons or they die!”

“You idiot! What are you doing here?!” Diller screamed in anger, seeing that one of the two was his wife.

Vick looked back to the armored man and there was a grin on the man’s face, a smugness that was daring him to keep going. Glancing around him, two of the men who had come to help were on the ground bleeding, while another was already dead. Diller was the only one who still looked to have some fight left in him but with his wife a hostage, the situation was looking quite dire.

“I will not repeat myself! Drop your weapons!” Another threat.

Having seen plenty of hostage situations, Vick tightly held onto his sword as he struggled to solve the disaster. By attacking first, he had orchestrated the entire situation. Yet, there had been no two ways to go about it in the first place. From the rumors of what has been happening to the other villages, there were no circumstances where blood wasn’t spilled. Whether the people had willingly given up their possessions or had them taken by force, there was always casualties.

“I’ll give you a choice. Lower your sword, and I will put in a good word for you with the Southern Guards. Kill me, and my men will slay as many as they can before you can get to them.” The armored man threatened with a smile on his face.

‘I can only save one of them…’ Vick thought as he judged the distance between himself and the hostages. A good ten strides away, if he took them by surprise, it might be possible to disarm one of the men before they plunge their knives into the hostages. He shot a glance at Diller who had already drop his club. With very little options, Vick slowly lowered his sword.

*Zwssssh!* something sliced through the air and one of the men holding the hostages grunted before falling to the ground.
 
Turning his head, Vick caught the gleam of metal as another arrow flew straight for the second kidnapper. The sound of footsteps came from the village entrance behind them, and he turned to see another group of armed men charging in their direction. Another arrow zipped by, picking off someone else. Following the path of the projectiles, he spotted a portly man staggering behind the group. Bow in hand, the man had already nocked and drawn his weapon again.

“Do not let any of them escape!” At the front of the group, a tall man with short blonde hair and an unkempt beard was shouting loudly. In his hand, the man was carrying what appeared to be the empty hilt of a sword.

“Haaaa… haHehe- Hahahaha!” Breathing heavily, Narissa began laughing as they came to a stop near the western skirts of Garnikul. They had put quite some distance between their group and Shiar’s residence, and the lack of pursuers was a welcoming sign. With a bittersweet smile on her face, she quickly wiped away the few tears that were escaping and turned to address the four women behind her. “Here.” Extending her hand, she revealed a small idol barely the size of her palm. Intricately carved out of clear crystal, two small rubies were embedded in its eyes.

Still trying to catch their breaths, the four women looked at the object and then to each other in confusion.

“Narissa you…” Kaidus remarked with astonishment from the side, seemingly fine after their less than elegant escape.

“I snatched it on our way out.” She swiftly answered with a grin. Using the excuse of taking his toys away, she had knocked two guards unconscious and broken the women out of their confines after the confrontation with Shiar. “Although this will never be sufficient for what that bastard did, it’ll do for now.” Stepping toward the four women, she handed it to them.

“That- that belongs to Master Shiar. We have to return it.” One of the women reasoned with an almost fearful tone. “He’s going to be angry. He-”

“He locked you all in his cellar.”

“That was because-”

“Stop it.” Narissa rebuked. “Shiar’s not going to do anything as long as he’s still like that. Trust me.” She held out the finely crafted idol again. “You should be able to sell this for a sizable sum of money. Divide it amongst the four of you and leave Garnikul.” Seeing none of them accepting it, she forcefully placed the idol into the hand of one of the women. “Or bring it back and live the rest of your lives as slaves.”

“But… where are we supposed to go then?”

“Do you have families?” She questioned, and they all shook their heads with uncertainty. “Relatives?”

“M-my cousin lived in Imvera-…” One of them answered sullenly after a short moment of silence. “Maybe they’re still alive. Maybe I can find them…”

“I’m sorry.” Narissa replied with a disheartened look. After her team left the cove, they had found the ruins of Imvera. Suffice to say, something tragic had occurred and judging from the expressions of the four, it was old news. Her line of sight turned to the young man who should have also seen the ruins.

“What is it?” Kaidus questioned, catching her eyes.

“S-sorry. Where were you going anyways? Why are you here?” She quickly replied, inquiring about what had been on the tip of her mind.

“My destination was the Plemara Mountains, but from the look of things, I might have to make a detour.”

“Detour?” She echoed.

“Vick should be in Esperen gathering information. I’ve already accomplished most of what I had set out to do, so I’m thinking it is time we regrouped.”

“Esperen? But you heard what-” Staring at Kaidus, she had almost forgotten the events that took place only a short while ago. The unsettling memory of the boy’s arm ripping through a man’s body, those cold yet critical eyes that halted her steps, and the unrestrained display of force against Shiar’s stubbornness. None of that vicious brutality was present anymore, but she could not stop the fear from crawling up her back. In her panic and frustration to answer her own troubles, she had failed to consider why the boy was alone or why he was in Garnikul. Only now after breaking through her worries, did Vick’s warning from all those days ago truly solidify in her head. Make no mistake. He is very dangerous. The words reminded her.

‘Those eyes again.’ Kaidus mused to himself. It was not surprising. She had caught him in a moment of anger, and though she had hidden it well, it was not something someone like her could easily overcome. “Narissa?” He questioned, keeping up a show of ignorance.

“S-sorry. I was- I just-”

“Sorry? About what?”

“No, never mind… I don’t know what I was saying.” She replied, her voice becoming a little less audible with each word.

Sensing the impending silence, “Well, it doesn’t look like anyone is following us.” Kaidus quickly stated the obvious. “What will you do? Hide? Or search for your parents?”

“I-…” Narissa looked to the four women. They were as uncertain as she was.

“If you are going to leave, I believe the sooner the better.”

“Right.” Something clicked in her mind and Narissa hastily straightened herself. “I’m sorry to bring you all out like this, but I will be leaving Garnikul. What about the four of you?”

The women looked at each other. “This is stupid, I should never have left. I’m going back.” One of them who had been oddly quietly spoke up with dismay and walked away.

“Maron?” The other three called out in surprise.

“So what if it’s the life of a slave? At least I’ll have a roof over my head, a place to sleep, and nice hot meals throughout the day. If all that is required of me is to do some housework and warm the master’s bed, then I’m rather content. Better than getting myself killed or captured on the road.”

“You were a prisoner!” Narissa called after her.

“I don’t care!” The woman snapped back and disappeared beyond a corner.

Stunned, Narissa stared at the three who were still present. “I… I’m sorry. I should have thought that through.”

After an awkward moment of looking at each other in silent deliberation, “I want to leave.” “I also want to leave this place.” “If I can find my cousin…” The three women all spoke one after another.

A crude smile slowly returned to Narissa’s face. “Again I’m sorry.” She quickly apologized, lowering her head to express her sincerity. “I can’t promise much, but a few members of my crew are hiding out in Eegas waiting on word from me. If you don’t know where to go, how about going there?” She suggested, thankful that her decision to help them was not completely wrong and misguided.

“Eegas? But that’s at least four days ride away. How are we ever going to get there?”

“There is a man named Miyon who frequents the Green Briar near the southern market. You’ll usually find him drinking alone, but he’s a trustworthy person and can help you find passage to Eagas. That idol should be more than enough to pay for his services as well as your fares.” Narissa quickly explained about what to do for the trip. “Once you get to Eagas, look for Big Bethan’s Embroidery. Ask for Donal, and tell him that Narissa sent you. He will help you.” She added.

With a brief farewell, the three ladies departed.

…

“You’re not going with them?” Kaidus inquired as they were left alone by the side of an alley.

“They’ll be fine, Miyon is very accomplished in his business.”

“And you?”

“Actually, I was hoping to ask if I can accompany you to Esperen.”

“Come again?”

“What? It’s perfect. If Vick has been gathering information in Esperen, maybe he might have some clues pertaining to my parent’s whereabouts. Not to mention, I would sleep a lot better knowing that I’m traveling with a mage.”

“I cannot find fault in your logic, but I am certain that that is a bad idea.

“And I am certain that I should have pilfered some clothes instead of that figurine.” Narissa replied with a sheepish grin and looked down at the gray cloak.

“…”

“It’ll be just until Esperen. Jakob said he was heading to Karpes when we split. If I can get to him, he should be able to help me. Until then, I would feel a lot safer if I am traveling with you.”

“Hah… planning to use me again?” Kaidus sighed, hearing the willful plea in her voice much like earlier.

“I won’t slow you down, I promise. Catch.” Narissa pulled out a small black stone from within her dress and tossed it to Kaidus. “Payment for your services, and don’t forget, you still owe me for bringing you here.”

‘Curses.’ He thought to himself as he caught the black stone. It was a black gul, worth 100erns. “I believe our previous agreement was mutually beneficial?”

“So is this.” Narissa returned a shameless smile and pulled out two more guls from the folds of her dress. “You’re heading to Esperen anyways, I’ll even pay you.”

“Let me guess, Courtesy of one Lord Shiar?”

“I might have taken more than a few erns when I first made my escape, but who’s keeping track?”

“I believe I might have underestimated you.”

“Oh?” Taken aback at the sudden praise, Narissa’s smile widened. “I guess I should take that as a compliment. Well? Consider the favor repaid if you agree.”

‘I just did you a favor.’ The words came to mind, but instead of saying so, “Traveling expenses are on you. Non-negotiable.” He replied. With very few options and an unwillingness to let her travel alone after what happened, Kaidus turned and walked away, having acquiesced to her request.

“Thank you Kaidus…”

“?” The tone of Narissa’s voice had changed, and he turned back to look. Her smile was gone, and there was a solemnness to her expression. One of heartfelt thanks, a sign of genuine gratitude.

“I mean it, thank you. I don’t know what would have happened to me had I not ran into you.”
 
“I’m sure you would have managed.”

“I-… I don’t know why you did what you did back there, and I will not delve on it. I am merely thankful to not be locked up in Shiar’s cellar right now, and that my parents might still be alive.” She gave a dry, troubled chuckle.

“Don’t force yourself on my account. It was unsightly, and I apologize for having you witness such a thing.”

“That’s not what I-” Narissa’s mouth froze as her eyes caught movement from underneath his shirt. “Kaidus! There’s something crawling on you!”

“I know, keep your voice down.” Kaidus calmly replied while at the same time gesturing for Narissa to lower her voice. “He was quite worn out. I didn’t think he’d wake up so soon.”

“H-he?”

“Well seeing how you’ll be traveling with us, let me introduce you.” Placing his arm near the front of his shirt, the young serpent slowly and drowsily slithered out from between the buttons. Coiling around his arm, it gave a tired yawn and turned to glare suspiciously at Narissa. “Narissa, meet Zirus. Zirus, Narissa.”

“A- Th- Wh- You gave it a name?! And what is that thing doing under your shirt!?”

 

***

 

-Darsus-

Standing on guard, Troyle quietly waited outside the palace’s audience hall. It was the first time he had accompanied the lord to the palace, and from the sound of what was going on inside, things were not looking good. “…” He glanced at the two knights standing on both sides of the large double doors. Their lax postures and idle conversation was unbecoming of their place as palace guards, but such did not matter to him. Nodding with a smile as one of them looked over to him, Troyle continued to stand vigilant.

Though it has been more than half a turn since their return to Ferrent, the date for Ralfus Vatenger’s trial had yet to be set. Immensely different from when his own son had been convicted, the process of the Mystiks Guild’s investigation and the King’s own decisions to appoint a royal court was being stalled day after day.

The doors soon opened and Lord Varath stepped out, looking extremely upset. Without a single word, Alzin Varath continued walking and Troyle fell in beside the lord.

…

On their ride back to the 11^th ward.

“The evidences are unsubstantial?! Magic was not found to be involved in the death of the victims?!” Lord Varath screamed, planting a fist into the seat of the coach as it moved through the 13^th ward.

Troyle sat silently opposite the lord, unwilling to let his own anger boil over.

“That lying sack of-! FUCK!”

“This is my fault. I should never have relinquished his son back to him. Had we come straight to the 13^th ward as planned, this may have turned out differently.”

“No Troyle.”

“But it is. You allowed me the final say, and I made the wrong choice.”

“NO! He played on both our sentiments as fathers. I could have made the decision, but I was too weak and I pushed the decision onto you.” Lord Varath countered, sitting forward in his seat. “I did not think that bastard would stoop so low after giving his words as a nobleman.”

“What about the continued testimonies of the two men we brought back?

“Relegated to lies of desperation when pitted against the Vatenger boy’s statements. The investigation forces are still searching for those who escaped after the attack to verify the claims.”

“That’s absurd…”

“But not unheard of. We’re dealing with Lurus Vatenger here, that man has the means. I knew he was protective of his sons but I didn’t know he also had the king’s ear in this. I miscalculated.”

“My lord-”

“I’m not letting this issue go without a proper trial. There will be justice for Oris and Kanaar’s families. If the Mystiks guild and the knights will not help us, then we will just have to find our own evidence. I will revisit the prisoners and get the names of their accomplices. We can put out a bounty for them. We can-”

“Alzin.” Lord Varath stopped. It was rare for Troyle to call him by his given name. “There is no need to put out a bounty, it would only reveal what we are trying to do. If you can get me the identity of the accomplices, I can ask my contacts within the mercenary guild to look into our issue. It might take some time, but it’ll be better than being completely blind.”

“Right, of course. Seeing how the court will not come to terms with our requests, I leave it up to you and your contacts.”

 

***

 

-Elsewhere. Two days later-

The northwestern border of Darsus, a stretch of land that juts out like a large horn trying to gouge the sea. A land of stone and sand, very little grew upon its rocky elevations and storm-worn shores. Yet upon its desolated landscape, there were two men staring out to sea as if watching and waiting for something.

“Did you know that the locals call this place the Gorge Peninsula?” A man, clad in iron questioned as he looked out across the water.

“I did not, but I did hear something about this strip of land being like a withered horn.” A second man replied. Wearing a brown cloak to protect against the winds, the man’s hood concealed much of his face except for the two eyes that were carefully scanning the turbulent horizon. 

“That’s because of the waves. The constant battering against the rocks on all sides have created a hazardous barrier around this peninsula. Along with powerful winds from the west and north, barely anything grows here, hence the withered horn.” The armored man explained as he rotated his body to survey the wide and barren landscape.

“Why are you telling me this?”

“So I can ask: why in the four god’s names are we all the way out here?”

“That is none of your concern. Your role was to guide me, and you have done so. If you wish to leave, I will not stop you.”

“Look, I’m just trying to make sure you don’t go jumping into the water alright? This place is dangerous. If you get too close, a sudden surge and the waves will drag you away before you even know what happened.”

“I am well aware, you need not trouble yourself with my safety.” The second man calmly replied, not taking his eyes away from the darkening horizon.

“Well then, if that’s the case…”

“What is it?”

“I was hoping, would it be possible to pay me a little more for coming all this way with you? Just a little more if I may ask. This wind and atmosphere here are really detrimental to my health and all… Hehehe…”

Shooting an irritated look at his former guide, the cloaked man took out a green fer and toss it before the greedy man.

“Much appreciated, sir. Good luck with whatever it is you are looking for.” With a wide grin, the ironclad man left.

The cloaked man turned and continued to watch the water.

…

As evening toiled about, what he had been patiently awaiting emerged in the distance. A single ship’s silhouette upon the waves of the setting sun.

The man swiftly extended his hands to his sides. “Asiran! Daza Naar Tarak! …” An incantation began flowing out of his mouth and mana curled around his arms as the spell came into fruition. Bending down, the man placed his palms on the ground as the incantation came to an end. The rocky outcrops in front of him shook briefly as the rocks began shifting together, merging and extended outward into the water. Extending above the waves, the rocky protrusion flattened out and smoothed into a wide platform. With enough room for the incoming ship to dock, he stopped the spell and stepped out onto the elevated path.

Soon enough, the large ship began slowing down and eventually came to a stop beside the makeshift stone dock.

The sound of movements and loud commands came from within the vessel and within moments of docking, a group of individuals strolled out.

At the forefront, wearing a dark suit of armor was an aleithian man standing larger and taller than the rest of the group. Two curved horns extended from the man’s forehead, clearly denoting his lineage as a member of the dvuron clan, one of the five ancient clans of the aleithian race.

Behind the horned man were three others:
An old balding man wearing a thin black robe with a smile of intrigue on his face. Although seemingly ordinary, the old man exerted a calmness that screamed of danger, and as he moved, a thick and visible coat of mana could be seen bending the light around him.

Following the old mage was another aleithian man. A feathered Tiirin, and also a member of the five ancient clans. Even more daunting than the first, the man was jittery and walked with a crazed grin while his eyes darted to and fro. Two wings jutted from the man’s back majestically, and though his feathery appearance was handsome and refined, the smell of blood trailed behind him.

The third was a small figure covered in a black cloak. A woman perhaps. Nothing out of the ordinary, the figure moved quietly behind the others and did not pay any attention to their surroundings.

“You are?” The large Dvuron man questioned as the group descended from the ship.

The lone mage who had been waiting for them quickly pulled back his hood to reveal a man in his early twenties with short brown hair and dark eyes. Quickly kneeling before the group, “Ahros sends his apologies for not coming to receive you all. I have been tasked to guide you all while he finishes the preparations.”

“You came alone?” The old man questioned, and a waft of ice-cold air coiled around the mage.

“Y-yes sir.” The man replied, his voice almost lost to the sudden aggression.

“Your magic leaves much to be desired, but it will serve.”

“A-apologies, sir.”

“You do not know who I am, do you?”

“My apologies. I have not had the opportunity to understand much of what is happening.”

“Hmph. They send a new recruit to welcome us. The nerves.” The large dvuron man grunted in displeasure and stepped forward.

“Mallak.” One word from the old man, and the large aleithian man stopped in his tracks. “The welcoming matters not.” The old man stared at the kneeling mage. “Now tell me. What is your name, young raezil?”

Keeping his head down, the mage opened his mouth. “I am Mirat. Mirat Klivus.”

Zion’s laughter resounded disconcertingly through the air as it exploded outward into the raging tempest. Unrestrained and infused with the purest of mana, it swallowed the restless storm that had been thrashing about, halting it instantly.

Body parts and fluids that had been picked up prior–by Roln’s magic–violently crashed down to the ground, showering the area with more carnage. “Such Arroganccccce….” It hissed indignantly as it swam through the air.

“W-Who?!” An unnerved Roln who had been jolted awake from his drunken dream state questioned, uncertain as to why his own magic had suddenly disappeared.

“I Ammmm The Wings Of My Masterrrrrr… The Everssssstorm That Ragesssss Eternalll… The Silence of the Innnnvisssssible Blade.” Gliding around the mage, it drew on the blood seeping into the ground and a thick sheen of mist began rising into the air, covering much of the large square.
 
“What are y-!?”

Taking form in front of the mage under the cover of the misty veil, a partially formed arm grabbed the man’s neck, lifting him into the air. “I Ammmm The Unyielding Winnndddd. Youuuu Dare to Desssssecrate My Domainnnn With Such Trickssss?”

*KRACK!*
“GRAAAAA-!!” Roln released a cry of agony as an unknown force smashed into the side of his torso, breaking a few ribs. The bloody ligaments of the shapeless limb quickly became fully formed as it drew in more blood from the surrounding and rose up to cover his mouth, stifling his screams.

“The Masssster Has Permitted Me Thisssss Moment. Do Sssstaaaay Aliiiive… I Do Not Wisssshhhh To Dissssapoint Him.”

“Mmmmmmm!?!?!” A muffled howl as his knees were bent inward. His body unwilling to move, Roln helplessly stared into the terrifying visage of an entity not of the mortal realm.

 

—

 

Many of the prisoners watched Kaidus carefully as he returned to the four wounded men. Fear permeated through the air and upon noticing the focus of their many gazes, he quickly pulled his hood over his head.

Although he had trained himself to be in complete control of his own body, that single aspect was the one thing he could not wholly restrain.
A remnant of his true self. The shine of his true lineage. The silver of House AnDargus.
Try as he might: an unconscious lapse of judgement, the exertion of power, linking with the spirits, and heightened emotions… they all served to reveal what he really is, what he had been branded.

Paying little heed to people who could never truly understand, he leaned down to the pitiful looking men at the end of their ropes.
“It doesn’t look good, but they’re still breathing.” Kaidus whispered beneath his breath as his mana coursed through one of the men. Directing his magic to heal the wounds and internal injuries to prevent death, more mana surged into the body before he promptly moved onto the next man. Within moments, the four were no longer gasping for air, but soundly unconscious against their cages.

‘Master… There Are Others Approaching.’ Vishan’s clear and displaced voice echoed through his mind.

Sending out a thin wave of mana, he detected footsteps approaching from the eastside of the plaza. The newcomers were moving carefully and quickly, while trying to conceal themselves with magic.
“Let us see what they are up to.” Leaving the prisoners chained, he scanned for Zion’s location through the thick mist and beckoned the spirit to stop.
It did not.
‘Zion.’ Kaidus repeated, immediately suppressing the wayward spirit’s power.
“GRUAAAH!!” Another agonizing scream as Roln was thrown onto the adjacent stage. The wind spirit swiftly returned to take residence in the cloak it had formed earlier, and
the thick mist slowly condensed before falling to the ground.

“Huhgu! Guuuu!!!” Struggling atop the platform where he was thrown, Roln was twitching and gasping for air.

‘As Have Youuuu Commanded…. It Yet Livesssss.’ The wind hissed, and Kaidus turned to walk toward the incapacitated man. ‘Master.’ It was Vishan who had spoken again. Another warning.

The intruders had not come to watch, and had acted.
Kaidus immediately braced himself and the red cloak completely wrapped itself around him as the ground shook. A fissure opened up underneath his feet. ‘Vishan!’ Kaidus directed, quickly expelling his mana outward to shield those around him as he was swallowed up.

Bursting up through the ground as intense flames erupted around its master, in a gush of light Vishan flickered upward, riding alongside the flames and containing them into a fiery pillar.

With the destructive fire and earth magic somewhat contained, Kaidus began drawing in the excess mana that he had expelled in the rush. A bolt of mana suddenly honed in on his position and he looked up to deflect it, but something swooped by and negated the attack. ‘Zirus.’ The youngling’s presence came to a stopped above him. Although he had left the young drakall to hunt on the outskirts of town, it seem to have picked up on the danger and came to help.

“Enough of this.” Kaidus whispered his irritation as he raised himself out of the hole with earth magic. The thought to extinguish the flames flashed in his mind, but another idea occurred to him and he slowly closed his eyes.

‘Massssterrr. Allow Me Insssteaddd…’ Zion contended, begging to be unleashed once more.

“It is a good chance to test his limits.” Kaidus replied, focusing his will and mana into the red gem on the youngling’s forehead. Bracing himself once more, within moments, “KRAAAAUUU!!!” A deafening roar shattered the flames and blew the pillar of magic away, leaving nothing but a smoldering wall of pure white smoke in its wake.

With the sound of tired wingbeats, the serpent swooped down in front of him. “Well done.” He complimented, staring into the two silver eyes that were looking back up at his own for approval. “Krrrraaa!” Baring its fangs in exhaustion and pride, the young drakall launched itself onto his shoulders and promptly slithered into his cloak. As Zirus moved to situated itself around his left arm as usual, ‘!?’ an all too familiar mana signature pulsed outward from within his pocket. One of Eril’s rings had begun to glow. ‘!!’ The fury within him flared up at the knowledge. “… Leave the one with the ring.” With a stern word of command, Zion once against rush forth through the smoke, following his will.

 

—

 

-Present-

Stalking toward the broken Roln who was painfully gasping for air, “The mana lingering around this place. Is it yours?” Kaidus questioned, and his voice weaved through the silence that had gripped the plaza.

“W-Wh- haaah… haa… W-what are… you…?” A broken inquiry came amongst pained breaths.

“What or who I am, is irrelevant. That symbol on your shoulder. It is the emblem of the Scarlet Shields, a chapter of the 10^th ward Mystiks Guild.” The man’s eyes lit up as he stated the affiliation. “Sworn to protect and serve Ferrent, never venturing outside of its walls. One of its three final defenses.”

“Y- *cough! COUGH!* y-you… are from D-Darsus…”

“With your skills, I cannot deny the fact that you may have once been a mage of the shields. Why a former or possible member of the Mystiks Guild is all the way out here, lording over a slave town such as this… that question had intrigued me. Yet with what’s occurred so far, it looks like I have already found my answer.” Kaidus reached down and grabbed Roln by the collar. Pulling Roln up to face him, “what is a former member of the Mystiks guild doing in a town ran by Tal’hrus? Why would their agents try to assist you?”

Roln grimaced in pain and kept his mouth tightly shut.

“Answer me. You have already betrayed one master, another betrayal will mean nothing.”

“F-Fuck YOU! *Cough!*”

“Don’t misunderstand. I already know the answer. I just wanted to hear it from your own mouth before I send you on your way.”

Roln painfully turned to look at the emblem on his shoulder, then back to Kaidus. “A-are you here… Haa *COUGH!*… to bring me back? *Kak! Cough!*” Roln replied, spitting out a little blood. “T-they send a child t-to bring me… to justice…? Haa….hahaha..!! *cough!*”

“Your delusions are quite enlightening, but I am neither affiliated with the guild nor do I have any such plans to take you back. I had simply saw something curious and thought to inquire about it. It is why you are still alive and not your partners.” Kaidus replied coldly, his eyes not showing a single hint of remorse or delight about what he had done.

“K-kill- *Hahk!* guhhh.. aaaAA!!!!” Roln began pounding on his chest painfully with his broken arm.

Kaidus quickly infused a bit of mana into the man to alleviate the pain, and Roln’s eyes turned into shock. “You have thrown your pride as a protector away, yet you still keep such a thing on your person. It is laughable and insulting to the Scarlet Shields.” Kaidus replied with a dry insult, and the man’s shocked face instantly darkened.

“P-pride? Haaah… someone like you… Kuh- dare to speak to me of… pride?” Roln retorted, glaring back angrily as he fought for air. “My pride… has never wavered. Guh- haaaa… contrary to what you have said or may think, it has only grown stronger. This symbol,” Roln replied firmly, his pupil darting to his left should, “is but a reminder… of my past. *cough!* an acknowledgement to the mistakes of my youth. Of a purpose without passion… Haaah-haaaah… a devouring flame that has been constrained from satiating its hunger! In time I will rid myself of it as I have rid myself of Darsus and that damned guild! *COUGH! Cough! HAAAK! Cough!*”

“And where will that hunger lead you?”

Glaring back up at Kaidus, “P-Power… Freedom!”

“So you say, yet all I’ve seen is greed and oppression.”

“Ha… ahahah!!! *COUGH!* hahaha… is it not the same for you?” Roln immediately retorted with a pained smile. “All that power… against someone like me. Ahahaha! You a-are… an abomination!”

“You brought this upon yourself, don’t try to blame me for what happened.”

“That matters little, and you *cough!* ha… know it to be true. You and I… we are quite similar.”

“We were.” Dropping the man to the ground, Kaidus reached into his pocket and pulled out the handful of rings he had confiscated. With a thought, they rose up from his hand and into the air, hovering above Roln. The man’s face once against dissolved into disbelief upon realizing what they were. “These belonged to Eril. These three, I took from the others whom I had the pleasure of crossing paths with. The Countess Belinde, the King’s Advisor, and our unfortunately friend.” Kaidus glanced back at the charred body behind him.

“T-t-those can’t be r-real… Master Eril cannot possibly be…”

“Deny it all you want. It is the truth.” Kaidus replied and stared down at the bewildered man. There was fear in his eyes, along with a glint of understanding. It was a look he knew well. The man was keen enough to recognize his own position. “Whatever it was that caused you to turn from the Mystiks guild does not matter to me. As a former member of your caliber, I am willing to give you a chance to obtain your ultimate goal.” Kaidus’ smiled inwardly. In Roln’s confused eyes, he could see the glint of understanding blossoming into interest. “Bring Tal’hrus to me, and I shall satisfy your hunger with power unimaginable.” By his will, Roln’s broken body rose up off the ground. Placing a hand on the man’s shoulder, Roln began screaming out in pain.

…

“W-what am I supposed to do?” A terror filled Roln questioned weakly while testing his arms and legs.

Kaidus looked up to the man who was now standing a head and a half taller than himself. “There are five rings that belonged to Eril. It stands to reason that there are five people with the counterparts to these rings. I myself have three of them. You will find the other two for me.”

“You have already obtained three on your own. W-why do you need me?”

“I have obtained countless of these rings in the past few years. The problem is that I cannot use them without dispelling the enchantment placed upon them by their creator. Unfortunately your Master Eril is no more, and your friends with the knowledge are quite tight lipped.”

“Y-you want me to… this is insane! They would never trust me once they hear about what happened here!”

Picking out one of the rings, Kaidus flicked it over to Roln. “Tell them that your unit leader fell to an assassin. That he entrusted you with the ring and you managed to escape. And this,” taking out a silver ring of his own make, Kaidus tossed it to Roln. “It requires a simple incantation. Keep it with you and notify me if you succeed or are in trouble.”

Gritting his teeth, Roln reluctantly took the rings. “I do this… i-if I do this, what is there to stop you from killing me afterward?”

“There is nothing to stop me, and no one to stop me should I wish to take your life. Let me make that perfectly clear. My advice to you, is prolong that life and hope I find it useful.”

“You said- you said you’ve obtained countless rings. Why me? W-why make me do this instead of someone else?”

Kaidus looked up to the man. The confident and impeccably dressed mage from earlier was no more. Instead, standing before him was a frightened man with dirty hair wearing an ensemble of torn and dirty strips of bloodstained clothes. “A test of faith maybe? Or if it’ll help, think of this as my sentiments toward a fellow mage of Ferrent.”

Roln looked down at the ground, terrified at what may happen should he not comply. “I-.. I understand…”

“You have until I leave Malpaars. I will find you then. Now get out of my sight.”

On the opposite side of the plaza–near its outer limits, “No! Get off me! Let me go!” The silence that had shrouded the area shattered as a woman’s voice tore through the air.

“What- what do I call you?” Roln questioned carefully, unwilling to look at the disturbance.

“Impatient.” Kaidus replied coldly before turning to the commotion. Someone was running in their direction, followed by a number of people. Beside him, Roln’s footsteps began hurrying away.

Turning from what was happening, he focused his attention to the large cages around the plaza. Most of the prisoners who had been trapped and left behind were staring back, their eyes filled with horror. “Free them.” He ordered, and the sound of metal bars being sliced apart, along with shrieks of terror and chains falling to the ground echoed through the hushed atmosphere.

There was no use in staying any longer. Kaidus turned and walked away.

“Kaidus!!!” A voice cleaved through the noise of the prisoners. Behind him, the woman from earlier was being roughly handled by her pursuers. She had long arms and there were metallic plates upon her head that shimmered every time she turned her face. A kovus. Out of breath, the woman was trying to push her abductors away but even as a kovus, they were quickly overpowering her. “Kaidus! Hel- ugguuu!!!” One of the men wrapped his arm around her neck in a choke hold and the others grabbed her arms and legs.

“Vishan.” As soon as the words slipped out of his mouth, the three men lurched backwards and began screaming as blood spurted out of their arms and legs. Dropped to the ground, the woman started coughing but quickly got up and began racing toward him once more.

It was Narissa. The dress she was wearing had a large tear on its side and she was running while trying to keep it from falling apart. “K-Kaidus…” She voiced while gasping for air as she neared him.

“What are you doing here?” The cold tone of his voice caused her to freeze in her steps. In her eyes, he could see that they were the same as everyone else. Fear, panic, terror, and apprehension, all visible with a single glance.

With a slight hesitation, she picked up her steps and hurried behind him. “T-thank the gods it’s you! P-please help me!” She spoke quickly, her voice filled with what almost sounded like hope.

Two more men arrived and began checking up on the three who were bleeding on the ground. They then looked at Kaidus and Narissa.

“I remember you warning us not to come here. If you knew what kind of a place this is, why are you here?” Kaidus questioned, turning his head to Narissa. With her holding tightly onto the seams of her dress, the upper curves of her body left very little to the imagination and he quietly looked away. “What happened to you?” He queried, releasing the bloodied cloak of air before taking off and handing his gray cloak underneath to her.

“Talk abo- t-thank you.” With a surprised smiled, Narissa quickly wrapped the gray cloak around herself. “I’ll tell you everything later. Please, you have to help me.”

“Lady Narissa! Please return with us!” One of the men shouted.

“Lady? I thought that was behind you?” Kaidus gave Narissa an inquisitive look and she frowned.

“It’s a long story, but please. Please come with me.”

Seeing the trouble in her face and hearing her anxious tone, “lead the way.” Kaidus replied, keeping his eyes on the men who had been after Narissa.

 

***

 

Following Narissa and the guards who had been sent to escort her back, they soon arrived at a large house not far from the plaza.

“I see no ropes on her. She came back willingly?” A kovus man holding his forehead with a wet towel questioned the guard as they were led to an extravagant living space.

“M-My lord. This is… how do I-”

“What is it? And who is that?” The kovus man questioned, looking at Kaidus.

“I came to ask you one last time, Shiar. If you will not help me seek revenge, then at least tell me where their remains are. You owe everyone that much!” Narissa interrupted angrily without allowing for any introductions.

“I don’t owe you anything, but I will thank you for coming back to me.” Shiar replied, looking away from her as he held onto his forehead. “Svas, take her away and throw that child out.”

“…” The guard looked to Kaidus but did not move.

“Svas, are you deaf? And why are you alone? Where are the others?”

“M-my lord. Elburg, Bein, and Trence are currently… incapacitated. Lerak went to get some people so they can bring them back.”

“Incapacitated? What in the world are you talking about? By what? Who?”

“Shiar!” Narissa demanded again angrily.

The guard looked nervously at Kaidus once more, and then turned back to his lord. “My lord, I-I think you should really comply with Lady Narissa’s request.”

Taking the towel off his forehead, Shiar quickly crumbled it into a wet ball and threw it at the guard. “You think?! I think I’ve already told you to do something! What are you still doing here?! Get rid of the boy and take Narissa away!”

“Narissa. He’s clearly not in the mood to listen to reason, much less comply with your pleas.” Kaidus spoke, his voice tired and unamused.

“M-my lord! Please!” The guard quickly pleaded, stepping forth in between his lord and Kaidus.

“Out of my way.” With a simple push, he shoved the guard away and Kaidus stepped toward Shiar. “Some people cannot understand reason, and I tire of these pointless exchanges.”

“I don’t know who you are, but get the fuck out of m–?!” Shiar clammed up and began scratching at his throat. His eyes clouded and started bulging out as if something was constricting his neck. “-PUAH!!!! Haaahh!! Haaah!! *COUGH! COUGH!* W-what the fuck?! What did you do?!”

“You ready to talk?” Kaidus questioned. The man simply stared back, his voice all but lost. With a thought, the man began grabbing at his throat again.

“Kaidus! That’s enough!” Narissa cried out from behind, her voice filled with panic.

“Last chance. Are you ready to talk?” He questioned once more, and the man eagerly nodded his head. Kaidus released the hold.

“KU-AAH!! *HAAA! HAA! HAA!!!*” Breathing and coughing painfully, Shiar shrunk back upon his seat.

“I would not waste any more time if I were you. Tell Narissa what she wants to know, or I will interrogate you. You WILL not enjoy it, and your riches will mean nothing.”

“I caakkkk-nkkkt taakkk.” A barely understandable answer came out.

Kaidus move forward and Shiar jerked up in his chair. “I must’ve crushed something. Don’t move.” Placing a hand on the man’s neck, Shiar grimaced excruciatingly as he quickly healed the damages.
 
“K- W-what do you want?!” Shiar replied, terrified and surprised at what had just occurred.

“Where are my parent’s remains, Shiar? Who killed them? Why?”

“…”

“Answer her.” Kaidus goaded from the side.

“I don’t know…” A hesitant answer.

“You said that you knew. You said you found out what happened to Alxrea.”

“I know what happened at Alxrea. That is the truth. But I can’t tell you where your parents are, because I honestly don’t know.”

“Y-You- damn you Shiar! Why would you lie about something like that?! They could still be alive! Why would you deceive me?!”

“You know perfectly why I lied to you! You would have ran off to search for them, getting yourself killed in the process without knowing if they are still alive or dead! I would rather have you locked here with me, than allow that to ever happen!”

“Don’t try to twist this into something else while using me as an excuse, Shiar. I’m sick of it! The idea of caring for another being does not exist within you, and you know it. Your words are hollow, and I will NEVER fall for them again.”

“Narissa pleas-”

“Stop it! I did not come here to listen to another one of your confessions, or to hear you beg. Tell me what you know, and hopefully this will be the last time we see each other.” Narissa replied adamantly, her anger clearly visible upon her face.

“… if that is how you truly feel, then I give up.” Shiar slouched on his seat and quietly stared vacantly at the seat opposite him. “It was over a year ago… the King’s men found out that your father was smuggling weapons for the Liberation Army. To punish him, they captured everyone from Alxrea as collaborators. From what I found out, he had been doing it for a few turns before getting caught. By the time news reached me and I got to Alxrea, the village had already been seized and its people long gone.”

“You can’t be serious… mother, father, Agleis… everyone…” Narissa’s legs buckled, and she slumped to the ground.

“Stay here Narissa… with me. I can treat you well. I can give you everything you’ve ever wanted.”

“Everything I’ve ever wanted?” She snapped in disgust and stood up. “I want my parents. I want to know that you do not have a cellar filled with women. I want to know that you are not a heartless piece of shit who could do something like this to me after I came to you for help!” Leaning forward, she slapped Shiar’s face, leaving a large hand print. “I want you to know that we are now strangers. Never look for me. Better yet, don’t even think about me. Live your life of luxury and die a fat monster wallowing in wealth like you’ve always wanted.” Standing up, Narissa turned to walk away.

“Where are you going?! Don’t do anything stupid Narissa!”

“The stupidest thing I’ve done, was coming here to ask for your help. What could be worse?” She retorted harshly.

“I’m serious!” Shiar got up from his seat. Holding onto the throbbing side of his face, he quickly moved in front of Narissa. “I didn’t want to tell you, but you need to listen to me for once!”

“Shut up!”

“Narissa! LISTEN! I did not come into my wealth because of luck, and I hope you know that. In these years ever since leaving Alxrea, I’ve built a modest- if not extensive array of information networks. It was how I caught wind of you. How did you think I found out that you were hiding in Eegas?”

“You fucking pervert! I should-”

“Listen to me!” Shiar shouted loudly, silencing Narissa. “A couple of nights ago, we caught wind that the King’s Advisor is dead. Assassinated over a fortnight ago. And lately, words have been coming in that there are strange movements happening down south, as well as to the north and northeast. Provisions are being bought up, farms are being seized, and young crops have already been negotiated and paid for. There are even rumors of conscriptions happening within the south. The whole of Malpaars is stirring, and the whispers are saying that something big is going to happen very soon.”

“Something big? What for? This cursed country just got out of a damned war. Why would there be another?”

“I cannot say for sure, but all signs are pointing towards it. Best course would be that the lords are merely making a show of strength, but who knows. What I’m trying to say is, if you are really going to look for your parents, please wait until things have settle.”

“…Out of my way. I’m leaving.”

“Naris-”

“Shiar. Get out of my way.”

Reluctantly moving to allow her to pass, Shiar returned to his chair, defeated and exhausted.

“It was a pleasure to meet you. Please excuse the intrusion, and I apologize for taking such forceful measures. It was necessary, and I am sure you can understand.” With a curt bow, Kaidus excused himself.

A chorus of terror filled with irrepressible fear and silence resounded through the plaza. Listening to the muffled cries and silent prayers around him, Kaidus slowly reeled his fury under control as his mask of calm restructured itself. Keeping his focus on the mana that he had extended outward, he cleared his mind once again. ‘Massssterrr… There Issss No Need For You To Bother With The Likessss Of Themmm…’ The wind spirit hissed with a hint of discontent as it returned. Without answering Zion’s selfish whim, Kaidus stepped out of the smoke with his eyes locked onto a man standing a distance away.

Wearing fine clothes of gray and red, the unknown man was clutching an item to his chest and mana swarmed about him like a hungry beast. Lying on the ground before the intruder, was the mage whom Zion had dispatched moments ago.

‘Ba-bump’ A single thought along with a single heartbeat, and the crude darkness came rushing back. Out in the open now, he could see that the devastating spell and ruthless execution would have eradicated everyone within the area, had he not contained the blast. Kaidus took a step forward and the abundance of mana around the mage suddenly vanished into the man’s hand. Once again, he could feel the ring in his pocket bursting with mana.
“Tal’hrus…” the name spilled out of his mouth like poison. Mana surged into his fist as tranquility and order quickly collapsed to give way for savagery and wrath.
The slave market of Garnikul as suspected, was indeed a Tal’hrus operation. The fact became overwhelmingly clear and his body swiftly complied with his inner thoughts.

In a streak of light, he reemerged behind the man. Without a word, he shattered the mage’s mana barrier and plunged his right hand into the man’s back. A sizzling sound and the smell of burnt flesh slowly permeated through the air as bones disintegrated and flesh melted. His arm burst through the man’s chest to grasp at what the mage had been clutching, and he quickly drew back as the air crackled and the mage fell to the ground. Ravenous flames immediately rupture forth from the hole in the man’s chest, eager to consume and erase the writhing body.

His fist still infused with the flames of rage, Kaidus opened them to reveal a familiar glowing ring that was quickly fading in his palm. The third of Eril’s five mindless puppets. With a thought, the power along his arm receded and he lowered his hand to the sound of complete silence.

The indomitable fear from before had completely overtaken the plaza. All eyes were now fixated onto him, and the terrified audience–too afraid to make a single sound–watched in complete stillness. Drowning out the horrified gazes with unwavering purpose, he stowed the ring in his pocket and once again, began walking in the direction of the half dead man on one of the battered auction stages.

 

—

 

-Earlier that afternoon-

Expelling waves of mana into the air with each step he took, Kaidus quietly made his way toward the western side of Garnikul. Having caught wind of an irregularity while enjoying lunch, he was following traces of magic that his own mana had picked up on.

Like many other thriving towns, the narrow roads were rife with people pushing and shoving their way around. Greetings and conversations could be overheard here and there, while the booming voices of merchants trying to push their wares echoed through the air alongside the shouts of young children playing in the streets. With the multitude of sounds colliding in conflicting harmony along with a rustic lifestyle that seem to have remained unchanged throughout the years, the town gave off an impression of peacefulness. Yet just like Maverus, there was an unnaturally oppressive atmosphere that denoted otherwise.

As he broke away from the midtown residences and neared the more luxurious part of Garnikul, a curious group of men carrying weapons quickly ran past–as if pursuing something or someone. Stepping aside to let them by, the thought of following was quickly rejected and refocused toward the magic he had been tracking.

…

The trail eventually led to a large plaza near the far side of town, conglomerating at a market square that was bustling with wealthy looking men and women.

Pushing his way through the horde, it became clear as to why they were there.
Various stages were set up with large crowds before each of them. Behind the elevated platforms he could see a number of cages in the back, each holding a multitude of frightened looking people.

Kaidus’ stomach twisted in disgust as his eyes fells upon one of the cages in front of him. Within, a terrified aleithian boy was clutching tightly onto his mother. A young gveril boy with chains around his arms and legs, there many others in the same situation.

He had spotted many slaves while on the move, had heard from the King and many people on the road that Garnikul was a slave town, yet only now did he truly realize the scale of such words. Over a hundred of them, numerous men, women, and children of all races locked up and being pulled out for sale like livestock.
He hurried forward, but stopped as a group of frightened young woman surfaced in his thoughts. His recklessness had already left the girls without a home and although he himself had been the one to meddle with their affairs, the responsibility of looking after them had fallen to Vick.
Kaidus hesitated.

“Six hundred and twenty erns to his lordship with the white collar in the back!”
A man shouted joyfully, breaking him out of his thoughts and Kaidus turned to his left, toward a different stage. Upon it, a young man no older than himself was standing mindlessly with an iron collar around his neck. Metal chains dangled from the boy’s wrists to his ankle, and two despondent eyes clearly displayed that the boy had already given up. As they pulled him away, the boy did not resist.

“And now… onto the next one! Bring her up!” The auctioneer shouted and a gveril woman, one looking to be in her mid-twenties was forced up onto the stage by two men. The single horn upon the woman’s forehead look to have been painfully sawn off, and her metallic right arm was hanging oddly to the side. As she slowly limped toward the front of the stage, one of the men flicked his spear and slapped her metal arm, garnering a pained groan from her and prompting the woman to quicken her pace.

“No!! Bring her back! Release her!!” A scream came from behind the three, and a gveril man looking to be around the woman’s age was shouting angrily. The man’s arms were chained around the bars of the iron cage behind him and while his words were demanding and vigorous, his eyes were in turmoil. A guard quickly stepped toward him and smashed a fist into the man’s stomach, dropping him to the ground.

The sight filled him with abhorrence and Kaidus’ legs shook with eagerness to intervene, yet he did not move.

“Do not let her timid beauty fool you.” The auctioneer began with a smile. “A member of the Eastern Sulrick tribe, she and a few of her tribesmen were apprehended thirteen days ago near the border town of Lizzau. They were captured after killing three of the King’s soldiers. This pretty face herself delivering one of the killing blows.”

Whispers erupted throughout the audience at the shocking information.

“Fear not, my lords and ladies. As you can see,” the auctioneer stepped beside the woman and placed his palm on the right side of her face before patting her cheeks. “She has already submitted. Her rebellious spirit is no more, and the fight in her… nothing but a memory.” A smile appeared on the man’s face and he slid his hand down her neck, then into her blouse as she grimaced without retaliating. Having proven his words, the man removed his hand and backed off a few steps as the disgraced woman lowered her head in shame and resignation.
“Like I said, there is nothing to fear. For insurance we have already taken the liberty of breaking her right arm, so you all need not worry about her strength. The arm will certainly heal, but I’m sure it is a minor problem for fine folks such as yourselves. Not to mention, bed slaves do not need their arms.” The man gave a wide grin.

The words seem to have achieved a favorable reaction from the crowd and the host quickly stomped the stage for their attention. “Now, let’s start at… oh, I don’t know… how about we start the bidding at two hundred erns?”

“We were just protecting ourselves! Don- Gawah!” Behind the stage, a grunt of pain came through as a guard slammed the butt of his spear into the gveril man’s side, silencing the man once more.

“I’ll take her for three hundred.” Someone spoke from amidst the crowd of people.
“Four!” Another voice shouted.
“Four-Fifty!”

“Massara!!” The gveril man hollered and pulled himself up. The guard’s spear came down at him again but, “THWOCK!” bringing up his left leg, the man used his shin to block the attack that was aimed for his stomach. Jerking his body toward the surprised guard, the gveril man kicked the guard down. “Arraaahh!!” Shouting painfully, he forcefully pulled himself away from the iron cage. His shoulders popped out of their sockets and his arms made gruesome noises as the metal cuffs around his left wrists dug into his hand, shaving off a layer of flesh. “AaarrgggH!!!” With an unyielding scream, he tore away from the chains, paying for the freedom with his arms. “Haaa. Haah… I’m coming Massar- !? *Haaak* *COUGH!*” The tip of a spear had pierced through the man’s neck from behind, halting his steps.

“Why?! Ultalr!?!” The voices of the other gverils who were chained to the cage alongside the man went into an uproar. “Aaaaahhh!!” Four of them started pulling to escape their chains in the same fashion. Spears entered flesh and in the blink of an eye, four more bodies were pinned helplessly against the side of the iron cage. Grunting painfully, they struggled in vain as their lifeblood slowly seeped out.

“Stop it!! You’re killing them all!!” Soul crushing screams came from the others, and on the stage, the gveril woman was shouting in anguish. One of her two guards stepped forward to give her a silencing blow.

His mind went blank and before he had thought his actions through, Kaidus was standing on the wooden stage with his back against the crowd. The guard who was about to strike the defenseless woman was now on the floor coughing, and his own xeberite sword had been drawn.

Seeing what had occurred, “W-who are you?! Just what do you think you are doing?!” The auctioneer reproached cautiously, pulling out a short slavers whip from underneath his loose jacket and pointing it menacingly. Around them, the other guards were hastily drawing their weapons.

“I am sorry…” Kaidus whispered, apologizing to the woman behind him as his sword arm trembled with bitterness. Taking a deep breath, he relaxed his grip on the sword to steel himself for what needed to be done. Blinded by the distraction of possible Tal’hrus agents and the unnecessary hesitation of burdening himself and others, he had been too naive. The grounds upon which he stood was a place of suffering. It was a place where living beings became less than human. Where the weak and poor were destined to become nothing more than property.
‘For those who require strength and justice.’ He reminded himself.
If his actions could provide them with a chance for freedom, then there was no need to think about it.

“D-do you know where you are? What you are doing?!” The nervous man repeated, his eyes fixated onto the slim sword that was glowing softly in the sunlight. “Lord R-Roln will have you hanged for this transgression!” The man added, shaking the whip warily.
The others quickly dragged away the guard on the ground and surrounded the stage.

“I do.” Kaidus replied in a low voice, clinging desperately onto the fragile illusion of control he still had left. ‘Masssssterrrr…’ As if in agreement with his subconscious thoughts to massacre everyone before him, Zion’s voice hissed zealously in his mind as recent memories resurfaced: images of a desolated city atop the water and the fate of its inhabitants. Visions of his own judgement and the lives he had taken in return. The situation was vastly different, yet the solution was looking to be the same. “So be it.” He quietly told himself and sheathed his sword. “Expect no mercy should you engage me.” Kaidus warned and closed his eyes.

“Take care of him before Lord Roln returns!” The auctioneer shouted, stepping back through the guards as six of them swiftly stalked forward, swinging their spears down.

His eyes jerked open, and a wave of death surged outward, freezing the attackers momentarily. With the opening, his xeberite sword flashed through the air in a horizontal arc and cries of agony erupted alongside streams of bright red liquid. Lunging a step forward, Kaidus twirled the sword into a backhand grip and with a single stroke, freed two men of their pain. The other four fell to the ground and agonizingly crawled away while holding onto their open stomachs.

“S-stop him! Kill him now!” A startled voice shouted loudly, yet none of the men dared to follow the order.

Shooting a silencing glare at the auctioneer, he stepped forward and the formation of guards scattered before him. 

“W-what are you doing? Don’t touch them! Don’t touch my brother!” A young gveril man who was locked in the cage cried out along with a handful of others.

Ignoring them, Kaidus passed the one who had been speared through the neck and lowered himself to the four who were still chained to the cage. ‘They’re still alive.’ Whether it be due to their unwillingness to lie down and die like animals or the ferocious vitality of being a gveril, the men were still stubbornly clinging onto their lives.
He quickly focused his mind in preparation for healing magic.

‘Massssster.’

A murderous presence exploded from behind and power surged toward him.
Instead of unleashing his magic, Kaidus spun around and slashed at the air with his sword. A powerful shock coursed through the weapon, numbing his fingertips as he brought the weapon down and plunged it into the ground. Something else vibrated through the air and he lunged to his left side, barely deflecting a broken spearhead before it could impale one of the chained prisoners. Twisting his body around, three more spears were already flying at him.
‘No.’ quickly suppressing Zion before it could do anything, ‘Second form, Thoa.’
Instead of evading, he dove toward the spears.
Slicing upward, the first strike connected against the spear in front, rebounding it into the air. Like lightning, his sword curved back along his first attack and Kaidus smashed the flat of the blade against the second spear, slamming it to the ground. Unable to make contact with the final thrust, he twisted his body to the side and grabbed the spear with his free hand as it tore through his cloak. Lowering his body to balance himself with the force of the spin, he drove the spear into the ground to break the dizzying momentum.

Surprised and frightened voices came from the crowd and Kaidus looked up to see the audience and guards parting.

“I guess I should applaud you.” A deep and steadfast voice shattered the confusion, revealing a confidently dressed man who seem to be in his late thirties. His brown hair slicked back, the man was wearing a dark tunic with a pair of dark blue pants to match. Golden stitches ran down the tunic in simple lines, but plastered on his left shoulder, was a peculiar pattern that stood out prominently against the dark outfit. Upon closer inspection, it was a stitching of a familiar red hand.
“No wonder my men are so worked up. Any of them would already be dead in your shoes.” The man continued, scowling at the six bodies on the stage before turning back to Kaidus. “You took my lightning magic head on, using your sword to draw it into yourself and the ground. You even defended against my surprise attack with deft movements. And that last defense you did there… I daresay, none of these dredges could possibly be a match for you.”

Instead of reciprocating the praises, Kaidus stood in silence, carefully watching the man’s blithe movements.

“You must be quite the swordsman with such laudable judgement and abilities… which leads me to a simple inquiry: Why? What purpose could you have in interfering with my men and their work?” The lord questioned.

“You are a mage…” Kaidus replied, glancing at the pattern on the man’s shoulder before scanning the grounds for others. From the precision and speed of the spells, the man was no ordinary mage. The lightning magic was a means to immobilize him but because of how he had dealt with it, the man had quickly followed with other attacks. As the second served to draw his attention and reveal his condition, the final three spears had been aimed to finish him off. It was quite the calculated sequence of attacks and all three had been invoked one after the other in rapid successions.

“Guilty as charged.” The man retorted with a snicker at the obvious statement. “I am Roln Aervas Vienact, High Lord of Garnikul. My friends and colleagues call me Rav. You may call me Lord Roln.” He added, giving a curt bow. “And you are?”

“I do not share pleasantries with those who try to kill me.”

“Hahaha. I guess that is only fair, but…” Roln’s eyes narrowed and his mouth curved into an amused grin, “why stop at trying?” Quickly reciting an incantation under his breath, his demeanor warped as a thirst for blood filled the atmosphere. The spell was swiftly invoked, and dozens of spears belonging to the guards swelled upward into the air amongst the awe of the spectators. “Now answer me before I lose my patience.”

Motionless, Kaidus calmly stared at the red pattern on the man’s shoulder. “…”

“I fear you are mistaken about something, boy. For what you have done, you are already my property. In admiration of your skills I have deigned to show some courtesy, but know that I have no qualms with putting you down.”

“I fear it is you who has misread the situation.” Kaidus curtly replied.

“Is that so?” Roln quickly turned around to face the audience. “Let all who are present witness my judgement!” He shouted loudly, “For his unruly conduct and the murder of my men, I, Lord Roln Aervas Veinact, as per my duty, for the betterment and security of Garnikul, sentence this vagrant to death!” There was a favorable uproar from the people. Turning back to Kaidus, “I am an impatient man. Speak now, and I might allow you to beg for your life.” Roln slowly raised his right hand into the air.

“If this flock is your charge… if this is how you run this town, then there is naught to answer for.”

“You have been found guilty of upsetting the order within this town. I will hereby execute you myself.”
At Roln’s words, the crowd went wild with anticipation. With a forward gesture of his hand, the dozens of spears rained down at Kaidus.

‘Zion.’ A wall of wind surged forth, smashing into the spears and repelling them out of the air. Their excitement cut short, those on the ground scattered in panic as the weapons fell.

“Magic!?” A surprised Roln voiced out loud, frantically looking around the area for the caster. Yet feeling no other disturbances, his eyes quickly fell back onto the young man before him. Roln opened his mouth in curiosity. “It can’t be… you’re the-”

“I am.” Kaidus interrupted and reached forth with his left hand to grasp at the air. The whole of the auction platform around the gveril woman lurched upward, creaking and breaking into dozens of wooden boards. He closed his fist and they closed in on Roln.

“Kuh-!” With desperate haste, his mana erupted around him into a frenzied shield and Roln threw himself to the side, barely escaping the clutches of the wooden bindings. “Vernin stone formation!” He bellowed and hastily began another incantation as two dozen of his guards tentatively gathered before him in a loose formation.

Kaidus raised his hand over his head. By his will, the wooden boards imploded further into thousands of fragments and conformed into a large fist in the air. In one swift motion he slammed his left hand downward and the large imitation followed, gaining speed as it fell against the mass of guards.

From behind the wall formation, a torrent of mana burst outward and four wind blades coursed through the air, cutting into the wooden fist. Slicing the attack into a number of smaller pieces, the wind blades twisted and flew straight for Kaidus.

“?!” Roln looked on in confusion as the winds vanished in midair and the large fist quickly reformed, crashing toward them once more. ‘What is this?!’ His head screamed at the unknown forces. Following up on the previous incantation, he quickly began a follow up spell. “Graaah!!!” The sound of bodies being squashed and bones breaking came from before him, but he pushed the incantation onward. “… Etanss! Zivaroths!” The final command, and mana ripped through his body as magic manifested around him, complying with his will.

Hundreds of transparent wind blades emerged from Roln’s body, slashing outward and gouging into the wall of flesh in front him, growing stronger as they expanded.
Those at the back of the wall formation screamed as their body was ripped to shreds, while the few who were not injured and could still move abandoned the formation completely.
Growing rapidly, the winds twisted and sucked up the dead while tearing apart the large wooden fist.

Seeing the incident suddenly escalate from an open execution to a full on battle, the audience screamed and stumbled over one another as they attempted to escape the incoming doom.

On his order, Zion swiftly snatched the gveril woman who was grieving between them and quickly brought her back to the cages. ‘Master…’ It pleaded as it surged back to coil itself around him. Watching the growing storm and the panic of those still trapped and caged, Kaidus brought his left hand up to level with his chest. “… You WILL control yourself.” He spoke sternly with an uncompromising tone toward the spirit. “I Obeyyyy.” It hastily replied with excitement. With a thought, a deep gash formed along his palm. Focusing his mind, he linked his boundless mana with Zion and the spirit eagerly took in the blood that was spilling out.

‘Hahaaaaahaaaaahah!!!’ With an elated laughter, the wind spirit began taking form as the blood suffused through its body. Brimming with power, Zion flushed outward in a torrent of red and quickly covered its master, manifesting as a protective cloak.

In the midst of the red twister and not paying attention to his surroundings, “You think you can fight me?! Witness the true power of a mage!” Roln shouted loudly, already drunk with his own magic. “This is my domain! In here, few are my equal!!” With a self-assured howl, his bloody cyclone intensified as he fed it more mana.

“Do not kill him… not yet.” Kaidus instructed, finally freeing the impatient spirit.

 

***

 

Unable to flee from the plaza, those who have heard of the old tales saw for themselves, the truth of their turbulent reality. The world had become one of blood and in the midst of the confusion, the young man had finally revealed his true form: a Demon.

–Cold eyes, carrying frozen death. Hair of deep silver, more radiant than moon glow. Body of pure evil, a darkness that dims even the golden sun. Awful and terrifying, is its presence on the fields of blood upon which it visits. Like a wraith shrouded in death and decay, it stands alone and absolute.–

As if summoning death, the demon stood without worry or wane. A red cloak that had materialized out of thin air to cover the demon billowed smoothly and steadily in the raging storm, while gales that swept in his direction slowed and parted to meticulously and carefully avoid him.

“Stupid! You knew this was going to happen! Why did you even come here?!” Narissa angrily scolded herself as she scrambled through the streets of Garnikul.
Barefoot and wearing a dress with a large tear on its side, her feet drummed against the stone pavement, doing their best to take her as far as they could from her naïve choices.
Onlookers ogled her but instead of embarrassment, she was filled with panic as shouts pertaining to her whereabouts erupted from behind.

Passing an intersecting pathway, she swiftly pivoted to her left, barely avoiding a man lunging at her from the side. The abrupt action caused her to lose balance and her body careened into the side of a cart. “Over here! She’s over here!” A voice bellowed as more shouting came through the crowd. With the sound of hounds also closing in, Narissa painfully turned for the alleyways. Yet as she did so, a wall of people emerged from within and blocked her path.

“You can either choose to come back with us, or we can drag you back by those pretty plates of yours. I am sure the master would not mind at all.” A man wearing a dark guard uniform called out as the group surrounded her.

“Kuh! The men of this country reduced to nothing more than lowly thugs without honor or pride, you all make me sick!!” Narissa retorted furiously.

“Honor? Pride? Look around you. Does this look like the sort of place where honor keeps you safe, and pride feeds you?” The man replied, gesturing to the dozens of hopeless slaves quietly observing her predicament. “Now come, or I fear I will not stop these boys from roughing up that pretty face of yours.”

She glared at her pursuers. “I am Narissa Unrigan, and I will not be forced against my will!” foregoing her shame, she took her hand off of the tear on her dress and readied herself for a fight.

“Well then my lady, have it your way.” The man grinned and made a mocking bow, then signaled the others to proceed.

…

“Unhand me you curs!” Narissa screamed, trying to shake off her captors as they dragged her through the house. Her lips were bleeding and her torn dress was only hanging on by mere threads, but she had taken down three of her subjugators before being overpowered. Brought to a staircase that led to the second floor of the house, she was held down and made to wait on her knees.

Some time passed before a kovus man wearing a brown robe appeared at the top of the stairs. There was a large stitching along the left side of the man’s head and on his forehead, barely below his protective plates, was a swelling the size of a fist where she had rammed her skull-plate. Slowly descending down to her, the man was grimacing with each step he took.
Unable to move or stand up, Narissa angrily glared up at the person whom she had thought was a friend.

“Why do you stare at me with such eyes after all I’ve promised you?” The man spoke, not looking away from her. Anger was apparent in his eyes, along with a glint of triumph and a coldness unlike his usual self.

“Fuck you, Shiar!”

“Is that any way to speak to me after what you did? You forget your position.”

“It is you, who has forgotten himself! How dare you do this to me!”

“How dare I?” The man closed in on her, taking a deep breath to dull his pain. “You come here seeking my help while offering nothing, and you expect me to put everything I have built on the line for you? For your vengeance?”

“They were our family, our friends! How can you be so callous!?”

“They were your family and your friends.” The man replied coldly. “I was always the orphan that your father took in, never the son or brother, not even a confidant! I slaved myself away as your father’s apprentice, and what did I get in return? Nothing!” *Guh!* he groaned in pain and held onto his head. “… No, that is not true. I guess I should be thankful for the skills he had imparted onto me.” A sinister smile appeared on Shiar’s face, and he reached out to caress her cheeks. Narissa quickly turned her head in disgust, but he held her jaws and forced her to look up to at him. “And now, I will have what I’ve always wanted.”

Seeing the hunger in his eyes, her body tensed up. “Please Shiar… please don’t do this!”

“It is already too late. You made your choice earlier, and I have made mine.”

“Please! This isn’t you!” She begged once more as she fought to hold back her tears.

“If I cannot have your consent as a proper woman, then I will take you like a slave.” Shiar replied, his voice devoid of any compassion. “Bring her to the cellar and lock her up with the others.”

“O-others?” Shocked, Narissa stared in horror at the person before her.

“You will learn your place soon enough.” The man smiled and turned toward the stairs.

“No! Shiar, please let me go!! Please!” She screamed, trying to break free from the vice-like grips as the guards dragged her away. “NOOO!!”

As if to answer her, the ground trembled and the house began shaking, throwing her to the floor. Decorative statues and large pieces of artworks furnishing the spacious hall came crashing down and cries of alarm echoed throughout the large house. Pushing herself off the floor as the unexpected quake slowly subsided, she spotted her chance for escape seeing that the two men who had been holding her were on the ground in a daze. Ignoring Shiar who had also fallen and was now yelling for the others to stop her, Narissa turned her aching body around and bolted toward the door.

Her eyes widened as she exited the building.
Not far away, a pillar of flame was shooting up into the sky amidst screams of panic.
Without staying to watch or waiting to be captured again, she ran.

 

***

 

-Earlier. In a different part of Garnikul-

A wave of mana surged through the air, irking and alerting the man from his pleasure. Like blood diluting in water, the unknown mana moved without reason or purpose, saturating the room with its presence.

Pushing the slave off, the man hurriedly sat up on the bed and looked around his chambers. “Master?” The slave questioned softly from his left side, her ecstatic face still yearning for more. “Leave me.” He spoke, his voice a broken calm.

“I-I’m sorry. Did I do something to displease you?” The slave queried, her beautiful face starting to panic as she stared back at him.

“Get out!” Unable to get rid of the uneasy feeling in his guts, the man shouted, forcing the slave to quickly get up and leave without even putting on her clothes.

Alone in his chambers, the man listened in silence, wary and confused about the unusual happening. There were only two other mages within the town and he knew them both.
The unfamiliar and unrestrained dispersion was neither of them.
His right hand instinctively reached up to touch the cool metal ring on his necklace and strangely, it calmed him. It has been half a turn since he was last contacted by the master, and the thought of reporting the disturbance surfaced in his mind. “No.” Releasing the ring, he got off the bed and began dressing. Something so trivial did not warrant the master’s attention, and he would deal with it himself.

“My lord, are you heading out?” His guards questioned as he walked toward the gates of his establishment. Magicless, it was no surprise they could not feel the mana floating about.
Without answering them, the man proceeded to exit the gates and they fell in around him, keeping pace with his own.
Focusing onto the source of the mysterious disturbance, he headed west through the town, moving toward the slave markets.

“Turus.” A voice called out and he turned to see a small woman stepping out from the shadows of an inn. Though only half his size, he could sense the skilled control she had over her gift, seeing the shadows slowly coiling around her like a dress.

“Agria.” He acknowledged and with a wave, dismissed his six guards.
“Do you know who it is?” The woman enquired, stepping forth to take their place beside him.
“No. Where is Rav?” Turus replied, continuing through the streets.
“Rav? That bastard should be overseeing the auctions right now.”

Turus looked ahead toward the direction of the central market—to where the man named Rav should be. It was also there, that the unfamiliar mana was coming from. A sense of foreboding slowly crept onto him but he quickly discarded it.
Three of them together, they were the eyes and ears of the Frozen Blade within Garnikul. They were the true rulers of the town, the overseers who were chosen to safeguard the lucrative trading of human lives and its prosperity. Their abilities were second to none amongst those of their ranks within the organization, and one or two wandering mages would do little to stand against them.
“… Let us go see what this is all about.” He replied, picking up his pace.

As the two of them neared the central plaza, another wave of mana surged through the air, smashing into them both.
A chorus of screams came from ahead and an enormous amount of mana suddenly manifested in said direction. “GRAAAAA-!!” Drowning out the screams, a bloodcurdling wail got silenced as quickly as it came.

“Rav…” Turus quietly whispered the name as cold sweat ran down his back. Catching Agria’s eyes, she was wordlessly staring back at him, looking as puzzled and alarmed as he was.

Cautiously making their way toward the unknown by pushing through a horde of terrified slaves and slavers, the truth of what was happening soon came into full view.

The plaza holding the bulk of the auctions was dyed red, and a number of bodies were on the ground, lifeless and unmoving.
At the center of everything, a crimson mist stood eerily in the afternoon sun, not moving or dissipating.

Seeing one of the slavers running by, “What is going on here?!” Turus inquired, grabbing the man by the collar.

“M-my lord! He- he killed them all!! Lord Roln is in there right now, b-but I think he’s in trouble!” The man hysterically pointed to the mist.

Taking a closer look, the bodies lying on the ground were those of their own slavers and guards. “Who?! Who did this?!”

“T-the red w-wizard, my lord. He-”

“GRUAAAH!!” A burst of mana manifested in the fog and Rav’s scream resounded through the air once again.

The slaver yelped in fear and took off without bothering to finish his words.

“T-this feeling…” Agria muttered with a petrified face, sensing the dreadful power that had materialized itself.

“It can’t be…” Turus muttered under his breaths. It was impossible for the master to be there and to be killing their own.

“What do we-” Before Agria could finish her sentence, Rav’s body shot out from the mist, flailing in the air briefly before smashing into one of the many auction stages lining the plaza.
The mist slowly condensed into millions of tiny droplets and fell to the ground, revealing a figure bathed in blood at its center. The overpowering sensation from before had vanished and the spacious area had gone dead silent.

“The red wizard…” Turus slowly muttered.

*Huhgu! Guuuu!!!* Although seemingly dead, Rav began twitching and desperately gasping for air. The unknown assailant turned and began walking toward him.

“We have to do something!” Agria voiced anxiously, seeing that it was not the master.

Turus turned to his partner, then to the person in the plaza. The stranger was not covered in blood as he had thought, but was wearing a red cloak that seemed to shift and flow energetically with each step.
A part of him wanted to retreat, yet his pride and position immediately denied the cowardly thoughts. Looking at Rav, the man was still alive and breathing. The element of surprise was also on their side, and Agria was with him. They needed not fear anyone else besides the master, and with each rational thought, he saw their chances increasing. “Follow my lead. We attack with everything we’ve got.” Turus instructed without taking his eyes off their target.

“Asiran. Vagal Eramus.” He quietly muttered and beside him, Agria began an incantation of her own. “Artua vis fradaeas, Tinal Ures Vaile,” bringing his right arm before him, he gripped it with his left and channeled mana into the arm. “Enaran Kusr…” His right hand curled into a fist as his mana condensed around it. “Zre enlun Emmaras Das!” Invoking the final verse, Turus slammed his fist into the ground. Alongside him, Agria had already invoked a similar spell, supplementing his magic with her own.
Mana swelled together and commanded by his will, the power of the gods burst forth into the world.

The plaza trembled as a large fissure appeared on the ground, traveling towards their target. Merciless, the earth swallowed up the unknown mage before they could react, burying the mage in a prison of stone.

With the first stage complete, Turus redirected the magic onto the second phase of the attack. The ground began shaking violently and a pillar of flame exploded outward from where the target had been buried, hurling molten rocks into the air.
Yet, something else was happening within all the destruction. “Agria!!” He shouted as mana began coalescing at the center of their eruption magic.

Noticing the same thing, Agria reached into her boot and pulled out a slim black dagger engraved with runes. With a quick incantation, she flicked the weapon upward into the air and it instantly shot toward the flames, aiming for the presence that was coming from within.
“What?!” She cried out in surprise as the dagger went against her imposed path. Instead of penetrating the burning spire, it had jerked upward and completely stopped moving.
Looking up, she spotted something in the air.
Drowned out by the spire’s burning light, an elongated silhouette with three pairs of wings was holding her dagger in its mouth.
A flying beast of sort, its two silver eyes were glistening brightly against the backdrop of the flames and its dark body was constantly distorting in the erratic light.

Catching her eyes, the beast jerked its head sideways and tossed the dagger aside before diving headfirst toward the ground. Twisting its body before slamming against the burning earth, “KRAAAAUUU!!!” A piercing roar erupted from its mouth, sending a powerful shockwave outward.

Shielding himself with a mana barrier, Turus managed to brace himself from staggering backwards. His ears still ringing from the shock, his unsteady gaze locked onto where they had combined their magic only moments ago.
It was impossible for such a small beast to have shredded the magic with a single roar, yet the fire had been extinguished and all that was left, was a wall of smoke. “?!” His thoughts froze. Amidst the smoldering veil where nothing but a crater should be, there was a lone shadow, rising out of the rubbles. With a shrill screech, the serpent dove into the smokescreen.

“Buy me some time!” Turus cried out, seeing what was happening before them. At his behest, Agria immediately stepped in front of him. Fumbling for the ring on his necklace, he began infusing mana into the object while muttering the unsealing incantation.

With a protective mana barrier already around herself, Agria invoked another spell of her own and the shadows around them began distorting. Like a river, the mass of undulating shadows flooded over to her in a stream of darkness to swirl at her feet. With a quick command the shadows rose upward, forming a dark but transparent wall.

“What the fuck?!” Turus shouted at the lack of response from the ring. Trying to calm his hysteric mind in case he had misspoke the incantation, he began the unsealing spell once more.

“Turus!” Agria cried out sharply as a torrent of mana exploded outward toward them.

An overpowering presence manifested before them and Turus looked forward, only to see a streak of red splattering onto his clothes. A line of dark liquid began flowing down Agria’s back and she went silent. “Agria!?” He called out, but there was no answer. Her guard was down, her shadow wall had dispersed, and he could no longer sense her protective barrier. Staring at her from behind, her upper torso slowly slid to the side and her lifelessly body crumbled to the ground. “No… this isn’t right…” He voiced in terror at the entity of blood standing before him.

 

***

 

Trembling and fighting to keep herself from screaming, Narissa tightly held onto her mouth while hiding behind a cage. She had thought to use the confusion and panic to her advantage, yet once again, she had made the wrong choice.

The plaza was a battlefield that was being fought by monsters, and she–in her desperate haste–had ran into the middle of it. The thunderous roar that shattered the flames had taken her hearing, and all she could do now, was cower with the slaves who were still chained to the cages.

She watched the dense smoke scatter temporarily, and her stomach turned upon seeing the female mage falling to the ground in two pieces. She felt her face draining of all colors while staring at the nightmarish creature that had emerged. Her mind screamed for her to flee. Yet frozen with fear, she could only stare as the bloody monstrosity slowly retreated backward and someone else stepped out of the smoke.

Narissa’s body shuddered and her mouth quivered at the sight of the young man who was calmly walking toward the older mage.

Instead of heading north to the merchant’s guild, Kaidus made his way back south to where he had met Captain Ardan that afternoon. Locating the mercenary tavern had taken longer than expected, and being in familiar company, he had lost time to the drinks and stories in an effort to keep up with propriety. With the obsidian token still in his bag at the inn and the sun lowering itself beyond the horizon, the trip to the merchant’s guild would have to wait.

Whether it was due to the previous night’s incident or because of the increased patrols, the trip back was very different from the feigned livelihood of the previous evening. The number of people out and about had lessened significantly, and many of the stalls were closed already.

A sweet and delectable aroma accosted him as he passed by one of the few that were still open, quickly reminding him of how long it had been since his last meal.
“Good evening.” Kaidus greeted, addressing a spindly middle-aged woman.

“Hm? Hello there,” she replied with a surprised smile, glancing up from her chair. “Care to buy something, young man? They’re all freshly roasted.” The woman added energetically.

Perusing the goods on the table between them, he started to feel hungry. The simple meat skewers were varying bite sized chunks of glazed meat, while the birds and rodents seemed to have been filled with what looks to be more meat, herbs, and spices. The knowledge that Zirus had not been fed since lunch earlier and was bound to be hungry as well, quickly made his decision for him. “How much?”

“Small skewers are one ern, larger skewers are one and four kuis. The stuffed birds and rats on that side are four each, but for you, I’ll make it three.” The woman answered pleasantly as if she was doing him a favor.

Fishing out four double bits and two single erns from his pocket, he placed them on the table. “Two of the larger skewers and two birds please.”

Halting what she was doing, the woman began picking out his order. With practiced motions, she soon handed him a wrapped bundle.

“Thank y- uagh!” A silent shriek of fear and pain assaulted him from within as he took hold of the purchase. ‘?!’ The visage of the youngling’s distressed face manifested in his mind.

“Are you alright?” The woman questioned, but he did not answer.

Without thinking about where or what he was doing, mana coursed through his body and the wind immediately obeyed, whipping around his vicinity. Clutching what he had just bought in his hand, he surged into the air as screams came from all around him.

…

Zirus’ cries became more prevalent in his mind as he approached the inn. The youngling was in pain and through their connection, it was quite clear that it was in danger.
Smashing through the window, “Zirus!” Kaidus shouted, turning toward the beasts’ inaudible howls of agony.

Near the bed, hundreds of bloody tendrils the thickness of fine hair had wrapped themselves around the young drakall’s body, twisting and constricting it while digging under its scales to penetrate flesh. Glowing dimly in the youngling’s bound mouth and caught in between its fangs, was a pale white seed the size of a man’s thumb.

Rushing over to the struggling serpent, Kaidus grabbed at the seed.
As soon as he came into contact with it, more threads shot forth coiling around his hand and digging into him. Remembering the last time such a thing had occurred, he immediately began infusing his mana into the voracious item. The tendrils quivered, then instantly retracted from his hand. Pouring even more mana into it, the dim glow intensified and the bloody threads started recoiling from the youngling, merging back into the now blood-red seed.

“Krurraaaaa!! Shrraassss!!” A bloody Zirus shook its body and leapt backward, hissing angrily from under the bed without taking its eyes off the sinister object.

“Hello?! What happened in there!?” Someone shouted from the door, having heard the crash.

With a thought, the wooden door melded into its frame, preventing access into the room. Turning his attention back to the seed in his hand, Kaidus continued flooding it with mana. Not letting up, he kept at it until the threads started wrapping and fusing themselves into the glowing orb. Until it had hardened and all that was left, was a dark red object barely the size of his thumb. Hot but not unbearable, the glow had vanished just as it did the last time. “Just what were you- …?” In the midst of admonishing Zirus, something pricked his finger. Looking at the seed in his hand, there were now three little crimson spikes protruding from it, almost like three horns. “It’s changing every time it feeds…” The words unconsciously left his mouth, leaving him stupefied.

“Shraaak!” Zirus screeched and broke him out of the captivating surprise.

Looking to it, the youngling had curled itself defensively underneath the bed and was shaking.
“Zirus…” Whatever disappointment he had for it vanished, upon seeing its sorry state. The floor around the youngling was painted with streaks of blood and he could see that the serpent’s head was still bleeding from a handful of tiny puncture wounds. Placing the seed in a shirt pocket, he took steps toward the young drakall. “Come here,” he calmly coaxed as more shouts came from the other side of the door. It snarled cautiously, not edging forward. “I am sorry. I should not have left something like that in there,” he knelt down beside the youngling. “Come. Let me see to your injuries.”

“Gruuuu…” Slowly and painfully, it slithered out from beneath the bed, revealing a body slathered in its own blood from head to tail. A number of cuts ran along its body, and on its wings where the seed’s tentacles had pierced through, tiny perforations were forming. The only thing that remained unscathed, was the gemstone upon its forehead.

‘It would have killed him…’ The truth was all too clear as he inspected the wounds. Gently stroking the young drakall’s body, Zirus shuddered as his hand ran over the many scales that were almost pried off by the vicious tendrils. “… Hold still.” He instructed, willing his mana into the youngling.

With a sharp cry, Zirus closed its eyes as flesh began repairing itself and scales regenerated. Baring its fangs, it painfully took the magic into its body and within moments, was looking reinvigorated.
The blood covering its body had caked and with a careful swipe of its wings, Zirus easily blew them off.

The sound of more footsteps came from outside. “City guards! Open up!” Someone bellowed and began hammering on the door with force.

Glancing around the messy and bloodstained room, “We’re leaving right now.” He ordered, grabbing his belongings and picking up the parcel he had dropped upon entry. With everything that had occurred, staying any longer would be troublesome.
Not waiting for another word, Zirus sprang up onto his shoulders before propelling itself through the broken window.
Placing two green fers onto the table as compensation, Kaidus swiftly followed behind.

…

Far enough from the city, they descended along a small tributary that fed into the larger river flowing into Maverus.

Exhausted from its ordeal, the young drakall had fallen asleep after devouring what he had bought for it.

Sitting quietly beside Zirus, Kaidus silently watched the flames of their campfire, contemplating about the earlier events. Taking the seed out, he clutched onto it tightly and held his fist over the fire.
The small object had been able to overpower Zirus. It was dangerous, and the amount of mana required to pacify its hunger was growing. Should it keep developing at such a pace, it would one day require everything he had, just to protect himself.
Thinking back, try as he might, he could not understand what it is or why Zeeke had given it to him.

His fist loosened as thoughts about dropping it into the flames came into mind.
“No…” Kaidus slowly retracted his outstretched arm, unable to go through with it. “I will bring you back to Zeeke…” He spoke out loud to solidify the thought as he rolled his thumb over the three horn-like spikes. As dangerous as it is, there was a certain intrigue within him to witness the truth of it. He looked to the slumbering pile of black scales beside him, then pocketed the seed.

 

—

 

-Two days later-

Guided by Vishan, he made his way through the slums of Tirtha to a stone house on the northern side of the town. Shabby and looking quite run down, it was much like those around it–unimpressive and blending easily with the surroundings. The only thing that set it apart from the others, was the nearly undetectable magical seal emanating with power from within.

Approaching the door, a freezing chill washed over him and Kaidus stopped in his tracks. “The Frozen Edge indeed…” His muttered, remembering the man who had fought him as an ice monstrosity.
Hidden alongside the containment seal for the nyzacus shard, was a barrier to deter trespassers. By his will, his mana flared outward, swallowing all traces of the man’s barrier.

The inside of the house was surprisingly simple and ordinary as well.
Far from a base of operations for an organization like Tal’hrus, it had very little furnishing and could barely pass as a home. Ignoring everything within, he headed straight for the back where the seal was strongest: a windowless room that was devoid of anything.
Within, there was no mirror shard to be seen yet he could feel traces of the ancient magic that it exuded.

Kaidus smiled. It was very reminiscent of Zavon’s sealed room where he had obtained the first shard. Placing a hand against the back wall where mana seemed to concentrate, it was freezing to the touch and undoubtedly the seal of the deceased master. Closing his eyes, he focused his mana outward, fusing itself with the already present enchantment. His hair began glowing with streaks of silver and the false wall of ice started crumbling, revealing another room within.

Sitting atop a simple desk in the hidden room, was a broken crescent shard overflowing with power.

 

***

 

-Elsewhere in the world-

The air stank of rusted metal and waste, mixed with a rancid odor that would most certainly induce vomiting. Along with the horrible stench, came the sound of crazed hollering’s and pleas of mercy that echoed through the darkness.
How long they have been there, the inhabitants did not know. It was a place where no light could reach and a world where night and day was synonymous. It was a timeless darkness, one that crushed the mind and will of any who lingered too long.
 
Each who were brought there spoke of the whiteness they were forced to trek though. Of a dead forest that was shrouded in serene fog, and of white silence intertwining with beautiful death. Many even claimed to have witnessed the madness that whispers to them in the cold nothingness, telling them they were no longer of the mortal realm.

*Kchek!* the sound of a lock being undone reverberated through the darkness and a small orb of light manifested in the air, revealing a vast dungeon holding hundreds of terrified prisoners. Bruised and broken, many were chained to the walls and ceilings, while others were held to the ground beneath immovable metal bindings. Those who had given up stared blankly forth at the light, while others shouted out senseless ramblings, having lost their minds.

As the orb of light hovered through the dungeon, it stopped at a cell a short distance away from its point of origin. Within, an aleithian man stood in silent solitude, quietly listening to the screams.

Tall and robust, the man had a sharp and aged face with two golden eyes that reflected the luminescence of the orb. Though much of his features were like that of a human, instead of hair, feathers protruded from his head, slicking backwards like a magnificent white crown. His neck and upper torso too were also lined with a feathery cloak that ran along his shoulders to his back–to where two majestic wings extended.

Unlike the others who had been brought there against their wishes, the man was there of his own volition. The endless screams of despair aided to drown out his thoughts, and the eternal darkness itself was the only thing that calmed his savage thirst for blood.

Following the orb, three cloaked figures arrived at the cell.
“The master summons you.” A voice spoke, unlocking the cell door.

“M-master?” A grin erupted across the aleithian man’s face as the other two walked inside and chained his arms and legs before ushering for him to follow them.

As the four left, the orb of light vanished, allowing the darkness to instantaneously swallow up all corners of the dungeon once more.

…

Instead of four, a lone silhouette walked out of the faintly lit passage. With an anxious gait, the figure rushed toward the center of the cavernous hall where the master was waiting.

“M-master! You have n-need of me?” A man’s strident voice stuttered cheerfully, echoing about the room almost like a child’s laughter. Stepping into the single light source at the center, the aleithian man’s two arms and legs were no longer chained, but covered in blood. Half his face and torso were also dyed red, and he looked delighted.

Standing on the periphery of the light, the old master calmly stared at the winged man. “… How many times must I tell you? My servants are not your play things.”

Sensing displeasure, the man immediately got on both knees. “S-sorry master. I could not h-help myself. Hehehe. The blood… they called for m-me.”

“… Enough with your senseless drivel and gather yourself,” the old man scolded, seeing the change already happening in the unstable man. “You will comport yourself in my presence, or I shall never allow you back into that hole.”

“No!” The man cried out pathetically, “P-please! The blood d-did it! It t-told me to do it!”

“Then the blood better cease this indiscriminate slaughter, or else I will throw you out with the rest of the failures.” The old master threatened, glaring into the man’s two golden eyes.

“Y-yes. Yes! Yes m-master!”

“Hah… Do you know why I summoned you?”

“I k-kill for the master. I always kill for the m-master.” The man replied with an innocent smile.

“Yes… That’s right. Do you recall how you begged me to send you back to Darsus?”

“!?” Eyes bulging with excitement, “D-Darsus?! Yes! Send me! I will g-go now! I w-will kill them!”

The old man’s mouth curved upward into a smile, seeing that there were still some memories intact. “Good. I leave for Darsus tomorrow. You will accompany me.”

“Hahaha! Yes! I go b-back… I f-finally go b-back… Hehehe! Darsus!” An eerie grin appeared on the aleithian man’s face as fractured memories of the past returned to him.

…

“Master,” a deep voice spoke and a cloaked figure stepped toward the light. “Will you not reconsider this decision? There is no need for you to go personally.”

“There is, and no, I will not reconsider my decision.” The old man looked to the four who had emerged once more after the witless aleithian was dismissed.

The man lowered his head. “Then at least allow one of us to accompany you as well. That thing should not be allowed outside of this realm. It is savagery made flesh, and I fear it might turn on you given the chance.”

“Allus.” The room went silent. “To whom do you think you are speaking?”

“I did not-” The old master stepped forward and the man immediately closed his mouth.

“Do you think I am so old that I cannot defend myself? That I need ANY of you to come to my rescue, much less that mindless abomination?”

“No, master.” The man named Allus replied instinctively.

“Then know that your worries are unnecessary.”

“Of course, master…” with a low bow, the man stood and backed up to line with the other three.

“Anyone else wish to share their opinion?” With an irate tone, the old man slowly scanned the four. None stepped forward. “No? Then we are done here. You all know what you have to do. Dismissed.”

Watching the four leave, his hands shook with fury. First it was Zavon, and now even Eril and Kaval were absent.
None of his masters would ever dare to avoid reporting in. They all knew better.
Something else was happening, and he could only think of one person with the blatant audacity to challenge him.
“Kukuku… I don’t know how you are doing it, but your interference will end soon enough.” With a sardonic smile, the old man turned and walked away.

The candle on the nightstand flickered enchantingly, as if dancing to the soft melody traveling around the room.
Holding Lance to her breast, Adalina watched as the boy’s tired eyes fought to stay open, while humming to him of days long past, of love struck maidens awaiting their beloved, and of a mother’s affection. As he fed, she lovingly ran her hand through his fine red hair, stroking it as the boy was slowly pulled into the ever tranquil world of dreams once again.

Just like Anise, the child bore the fire of Troyle’s red hair, along with his light brown eyes. He had grown up quite well, but in contrast to Kaidus’ silent independence or Anise’s cheerful reliance on her older brother, Lance was more of a selfish crybaby.

She smiled at his sleeping face and leaned down to plant a kiss on his forehead. Placing him back on her side of the bed, Adalina picked up the candle and left the room.

Lance’s cries had woken her up in the middle of the night, but something else had caught her attention. On his side of the bed, Troyle was nowhere to be seen.

 

—

 

The two swords laid side by side on the table before him, naked and glistening softly as they were bathed in candlelight.

Whatever was within one of the swords was alive. It had protected him, had mercilessly dealt with their enemies, and would have killed the young noble too—had he not screamed out for it to stop.

He picked up the sword that the black spears and shield had emerged from. The weapon was of plain dark steel, newly forged only a few turns ago in the same design as his others: long and slim with a slight curve, and guardless. Perfect for the Formless Blade style.

With a quick forward flick, the sword hummed through the air gracefully. The weapon felt perfect in his hand, no different from when he first got it. “…” Raising it to eye level, “I know you’re there. Come on out.” He spoke, addressing whatever was lurking within.
What answered was the darkness, mocking his every word with silent echoes.

“What are you?”
Again, there was nothing but silence.

“I know you can understand me. I have seen you do so. Show yourself.”
…
“I command you in my son’s name. Reveal yourself!” He demanded, yet the sword in his hand remained motionless and unchanged.

“Troyle?” Adalina’s voice came from the stairs, followed by the sound of light footsteps. “Just what are you doing and who are you talking to?” She questioned, coming down the stairs.

“Nothing and no one. I will be right up.” He replied, placing the sword back onto the table.

“What’s wrong?” Holding a candle in her hand, Adalina moved across the room to where he sat.

“Is Lance asleep already?”

“He is.” Setting her candlestick onto the table, Adalina sat down next to him. “Did something happened during the trip to Gravas?”

“…” His mind scattered as he tried to think of what to say.

“Look at me.” She took his face in her hands and turned it to face her. “No secrets remember? And you should know by now that I can tell when something is troubling you.”

Troyle chuckled. She was right. Looking at Adalina in the dim light, she was beautiful. Even more so than when he first met her all those years ago by the river.
With resigned breaths, “Two men died under my watch, Ad.” He spoke, lowering his eyes to avoid her gaze. “Because of my carelessness. Because of my complacency, I failed to notice that we were being watched.” He paused, and she released him. “Seeing their lives fading before me, I was so blinded with anger that I… I could have lost my own life. I could have lost you all…”

“You’re still here. You didn’t lose us.” Adalina warmly reminded.

“No, but the thought of it was frightening. All I could think about at the time was not being able to come back to you. To my daughter. To my sons… It’s been so long since I’ve felt like this, that I had almost forgotten what it is that we do.” He slouched forward on the chair and his mouth twisted into a disappointed smile. “Ha… look at me. Oris’ and Kanaar’s family are grieving right now, and all I thought about at the time was myself. I failed them, Ad.”

“You didn’t fail anyone. They gave up their life to protect the lord, just as you would have.” She embraced him.

“No. They lost their lives because of me. I was the target this time.” He felt Adalina’s body tensed.

“W-why? Why would anyone be after you?”

Taking a moment to sort his thoughts, Troyle began disclosing to her about everything that happened. About the surprise attack, the entity that emerged from his sword, the young mage of the Vatenger house, interrogating the captives and what they had learned, and about their return to Ferrent.

“…” In shock, Adalina wordlessly sat beside him, quietly listening.
She didn’t know what to say. The incident at the academy had occurred around the beginning of the year, and the other side had been silent all year long without a word or summon. They had already prepared for the worse should there be repercussions regarding the unsavory case, even ready to move or depart the city, should the laws demand it. Yet nothing had occurred. To hear that something like that happened, she was taken aback by the reality of the situation.

“You should have seen him Ad. So full of hate, I could see it in his eyes that he wanted me dead. And I too… at the time of the attack, I wanted nothing more than to plunge my sword into his chest for what he had done. Were it not for the lord being able to recognize him, I don’t know what would have happened.” Troyle sat back on the chair, disappointment showing on his face. “There will definitely be trouble to come. The lord plans to press this matter and bring it up with the royal court. He is adamant about pursuing justice for Kanaar’s and Oris’ families.” He sighed and looked into her eyes again. “And I fear we are right in the middle of all this.”

 

—

 

Feziel listened in silence.
Though it had been discovered, been commanded, it remained motionless.

Only one being had the capacity and capabilities to compel one such as it to act, and that being was currently absent.
It had done as instructed, and had no cause to present itself before them.
It was a shield. It had protected and it would continue to protect. That was all it needed to do.

 

***

 

-Malpaars. Capital Maverus-

As expected, news of the previous night’s assassination tore through the city like uncontrollable wildfire. Guards and knights scrambled to scour the city for the killer, and by late afternoon, even those living in the slums were whispering about it.

Having left Zirus behind at the inn with his belongings, Kaidus made his ways through the slums, heading for the lower Castletown area where a mercenary guild was said to be operating.
After a little friendly conversation with one of the younger servants earlier while waiting for his lunch, the boy had pointed him in said direction. If it was anything like those from Darsus, he would be able to buy information, maybe even hire someone to look out for anything that may pique his interest.

Crossing one of the bridges to the lower town market, he immediately noticed a change. Although it was an open market, the place was quieter now compared to before and an even larger number of guards were moving in groups, patrolling the area and questioning those who crossed their paths. Including vendors and store owners, many of the people were looking more on edge than the previous day and he quickly understood why.
Rounding one of the many intertwining paths in an attempt to avoid the patrols, the reason for the city’s sulky atmosphere and why everyone had been so careful and apprehensive easily came into full view.

In the middle of the road, a group of three wearing brown leather armor were standing over a man. One of the guard was pressing the butt of his spear against the downed man’s chest, as the other two spat out questions. A gray haired woman, presumably the man’s wife, was kneeling behind them pleading for them to stop—to no avail. Along with the distasteful spectacle, an overturned table lay to the side of the road with a substantial amount of dried fish scattered all over the ground.

“Tell us old man,” one of the guards exclaimed, “Who was it?!”

“Please! It’s the truth! We don’t know anything!” The woman cried out, begging and grabbing at their legs before being kicked away.

All around the disturbance the spectators merely stood in place, wordlessly watching. Some turned their gazes and walked away while those who could not do so, listened and tried not to incur the same wrath.

“Take him. He will talk soon enough.” The guard holding the spear ordered.

Watching as they pulled the man up, he noticed that it was an old man, probably close to his late fifties. The man was bleeding from his lips and looked to be in tears. His dark and leathery arms indicated that he was a fisherman, easily explaining the overturned table and goods.

“No! Please! This isn’t right! You can’t just do this!” The woman shouted, grabbing the guards in an attempt to stop them.

“You bitch!”
Without so much as a warning, the one holding the spear twisted and slammed the back end of his weapon into the woman’s side, dropping her to the ground.

“!” Kaidus unconsciously clenched his fists.
He had not planned on showing himself so soon after what happened, but could not simply stand by and watch any longer. As he stepped forward to intervene, a hand grabbed his shoulder from behind.

A large and imposing man wearing a set of worn brown leather armor stood behind him. With ease, the man pulled him aside to make way and stepped forth toward the others. A full blooded kovus, the man’s head was lined with sleek dark green plates running down the back of his skull to his neck, and two powerful elongated arms fell to his sides, carrying a spear even longer than himself. “What exactly do you all think you’re doing?” Sounding almost angry, his deep voice passed through the air, turning the heads of those who heard.

“Ardan…” The woman cried, and the kovus man walked over to her, helping to sit her up.

“Taking a criminal in for questioning.” One of the guards answered.

In quick strides, the large man stood before the group of three. Standing almost two heads taller than the others, he stared down at them. “On what grounds?”

“H-harboring, and withholding information that may lead to the assassin’s capture.”

“Don’t be ridiculous.” The kovus man quickly shot down the allegations. “Mr. Elsiur has been selling fish in this city for the past ten years without so much as a problem. You dare to accuse him of such a thing?”

“He was talking about Lord Olivas. He knows something.”

“Everyone and their mother knows that the lord was murdered last night! Now get out of here before I send you after him!”

“Are you threatening us?!” The three released the old man to the ground and poised themselves for a fight.

“Leave before you get hurt!” The larger man barked once more.
In irritation, one of the guards attempted to pull his sword. From a standing position, the kovus man’s spear shot straight out without any tells, splitting the air beside the guard’s face and instantly causing the man to freeze.

Watching from the side, Kaidus smiled. Although the man was quite old, his movements and aura were that of a skilled fighter. Without sticking around to watch the outcome, he back off into the circle of onlookers and continued his way.

…

He moved carefully to avoid most of the guards. After asking a few merchants for directions, he eventually arrived at the mercenary guild. Instead of an actual guild house with a training yard for their members, it was more of a modest two-story tavern situated right in between two large inns.

Three men sitting in a corner of the room looked in his direction as he walked in through the door. As he caught their eyes, the three went back to whatever they were doing.
A fourth man stood behind the counter in the back, watching him curiously.
“Can I help you?”

“Sorry. I was told this was a branch of Malpaar’s mercenary guild?”

The three men from the back turned in his direction once more.

“It is. Or it was. If you’re looking to hire, I’m sorry but we’re not taking any jobs right now due to being shorthanded… as you can see.”

The man was right. It was a sorry excuse for a guild branch. The place was nigh on empty, and it looked like a total of four people were in the building. Even the guild’s job board beside the counter was completely empty and looked to not have been used for quite some time.
 
“Then perhaps you might be able to aid me with some information?” Kaidus spoke, moving toward the counter.

“Information?” The man raised an eyebrow inquisitively. “What are you looking for?”

“I’m looking for some people.” He replied.

“Well you’ve found people! BWAHAHAHA!” One of the three from the corner shouted, and they burst into laughter.

“Mages specifically.” He added. The room immediately went quiet.

The man behind the counter narrowed his eyes, his demeanor had also changed. “Can’t help you there.”

“Might there be a few in this city right now?”

“Are you looking for trouble boy? The man said he can’t help you.” One of the three shouted over. “Leave before it finds you.”

“Then I shall welcome it.” Kaidus replied, turning around to them and putting a hand on his xeberite sword. “I know how this works. I understand your need to keep information within the guild to prevent it from leaking to your enemies, but I am not your enemy.” He spoke loud enough so that they all heard him. “I am the son of a former mercenary, and have trained with some of the best swordsmen that I know of. I do not fear petty threats.”

“Is that so?” The door swung open, and someone stepped into the building.

“Captain!” The man behind the counter called out, and the others in the room made respectful nods.

Kaidus turned toward the door and saw that the kovus man he had met earlier was walking toward him. Carrying his long spear loosely, the man had an amused expression on his face.

“Who’s our friend?”

“Kid’s trying to look for someone.”

Kaidus made a curt bow, having been vaguely introduced. “The name is Kaidus. Nice to meet you.”

“Hm? Ah, you. I saw you earlier.”

“It was an honor to see how you dealt with such a situation.”

“Really? Perhaps I should have left it to you?”
The man’s smile widened, and Kaidus narrowed his eyes cautiously.
“Hahahaha. I was just kidding.” The man glanced at the others. “I’m guessing you’ve already heard that we’re not taking on jobs?”

He nodded.

“Captain, what did they want?” One of the men interjected.

“I’ll let you guys know later. Let us first see to our friend here.” Looking down at Kaidus, “I am Ardan Lirfain, captain of these useless bastards. We are the last of the once glorious Black Wolves. Now, did I hear you right? Your father was a mercenary?”

“Former.” Kaidus replied, undeterred by the man’s proximity and large stature.

“Ah, right. Former mercenary. Mind elaborating? Name? Which company did he belong to?”

“My father’s name is Troyle Paltos, the former 17^th chair of the Droxxon mercenaries under Captain Zikale Lorvak.”

Captain Ardan looked to the others, and they all shook their heads. “Never heard of them.”

“Not surprising. The branch operates in Darsus.” He clarified.

“Darsus?” The man’s brows lifted in curiosity. “That so?”

“It is.”

“Hmm…” The man scanned him carefully then stopped at his sword. “I take it you know how to use that?”

“I do.”

“Mind if I take a look?” Captain Ardan questioned.

As he drew the xeberite, the others looked on in awe as the blade began glowing with a green tint upon being exposed to light. Kaidus offered the handle to the man.

“A beauty this one is…” The captain took the sword with his large hand, delicately turning it around to observe the fine craftsmanship. “This weight and color… Xeberite?”

“Yes.” Kaidus confirmed.

“Ho… Your story becomes more believable.” Captain Ardan grinned. Standing calmly with his eyes still laughing, he swung the sword at the boy before him.

“Do not test me.” Kaidus warned, and the sudden surge of bloodlust from the man before him vanished. His own xeberite sword had stopped a hand’s width from his neck. The kovus man was still grinning.

“Hahahah! Rylin! A drink for our friend here!!” The man bellowed joyfully before handing the sword back.

…

“Well, what is it you are after, Kaidus?” Captain Ardan questioned after gulping down his fourth tankard of ale.
Sitting opposite each other at one of the many vacant tables, Captain Ardan eventually threw the heart of the matter into the fray—after a few colorful regaling of his past adventures.

As courtesy dictated, Kaidus had listened and entertained with questions of his own, but his purpose in being there was for information, and the man had finally offer it to him.
“I have need of a mage’s skills. I would like to purchase anything you have that may lead me to coming into contact with one that could help me.” Kaidus answered calmly and concisely, before taking a drink from the cup of honeyed wine before him. It was his second, and the sweet nectar was going down more smoothly now.

“What sort of skills are we talking about here?”

“One capable of defending his or herself in a fight. A malgin preferably, but a powerful raezil should suffice.”

“Planning on getting into some trouble are you?” The older mercenary gave a playful grin before calling for another cup.

“Hardly. I need to do some digging, but my destination is far and it would be a bad idea to lose our lives before we get there.”

“Fair enough. Hmm… Well, there are a few capable mages in this city, but I am afraid you will not be able to persuade them to change vocations.” Captain Ardan answered with a wry smile, looking half-drunk already. “They are all court mages, and with the assassination of Lord Krain Olivas last night, I am sure the few of them are scrambling right now. KAHAHAH!”

“I see. That is unfortunate.” Setting the drink down, he paused as the one called Rylin brought over a jug to refill the old kovus’ tankard. “What about outside of the city? Surely there are others?”

“Wouldn’t know. Enough problems inside these walls. Getting mixed up with mages are the least of our priorities.”

“I understand. Then I will trouble you no further.”

“I didn’t say I was done. Perhaps you might have more luck with the merchant’s guild. Wouldn’t put it past them to be dealing with mages. I’m sure they could point you in the right direction.” Captain Ardan paused and took another gulp of his wine. “Then again… those bastards are also quite secretive, so it might take some wheedling.” The man grinned.

The obsidian token in his extra boot came into Kaidus’ mind. “That might not be a bad idea. I’ll do that. Would you mind pointing me in the direction of the merchant’s guild?”

“Head back to where we met earlier, then go north until you reach the guild. Can’t miss it. It’s the largest building in this damned city.”

“Thank you.” Kaidus nodded gratefully and got up.

“What are you doing? Don’t tell me you’re leaving already? Sit down and drink with me some more. We have much to talk about, and who knows when I’ll see another person who I can talk to other than those dregs over there?”

“We heard you,” one of the men called out from behind.

“Shut up!!” Captain Ardan retorted.

“I’d love to, but I had not planned on staying out this long. There is also something else that requires my attention, so I must bid you farewell.” Bowing apologetically, he stepped forward to the jolly man.
“Until we meet again,” Kaidus extended his hand forward.

 

—

 

With the boy gone, Captain Ardan stood up from his chair. His cheerful grin was gone, and no longer did he need to act half drunk. “Augus. Dirk.” He called, and two of the men who had been sitting a few tables behind him—listening—stood up.

““Yes sir?””

“Pack your bags and enough food for eight days of travel. Rylin will provide you both with any additional supplies that you may require. I will have your destination and a letter ready by tonight.”

“Got it.” Without question, the two men headed upstairs.

“Captain. Was it his Majesty?”

“Yes. Although earlier than anticipated, his Majesty has deemed it time for Count Validare and Count Rais to begin. It won’t be long before our enemies learn about Lord Olivas’ death, so we must take this opportunity to strike before they can make a move.”

The glow of the ring pierced through his pocket, pulsing and emitting more mana than usual. With a thought, he released his own into the ring, fusing with the newly present mana and undoing the seal.
“Apologies Master! I- ug-”
A man’s panicked voice and the sound of splashing water came through the ring. With a confident stride, Kaidus stepped through the hole in the wall.

“-ive me, but this is an emergen-” The voice suddenly went quiet. “By the gods… what in-”

Below him, the drenched man was watching his descent. The man had stopped talking, and was looking up with confusion. Landing upon the ground, Kaidus took out the glowing ring and tossed it over to the man.

“What- no… that- this can’t be.” The man—Krain Olivas—muttered in disbelief, as his own voice echoed from the glowing ring on the ground.

“Why not?” Revealing the other rings, he threw them all into the air. The one that was still glowing on the ground jerked upward to join the others around him, and visible fear manifested on the man’s face. “You should understand what this means.”

“W-who are you? What do you want?!”

“Now that is amusing. Why is it that each and every one of you are curious as to who I am? Do all of Tal’hrus go about spouting their names and objectives when slaughtering the helpless?” He calmly replied, stepping toward the man.

“How do you know of us? Who sent you!? W-was it that ingrate Luraj?!? That- MMMM!!!”

With a thought, the man’s mouth locked up. “You had your chance earlier, but you chose to attack me and flee. It is now my turn.” He willed it, and one of the rings zipped over to him. “Here’s two easy questions. What is the unsealing incantation for the rings, and how many of you are left in this city? Tell me, and I will make this painless.”

“Kuh!” The man grunted upon being able to move his mouth again. “Asiran! Vor-!” Instead of answering, he hastily began a spell. Yet, “-GRUuaaaah!?!” A translucent spear burst through his chest. *Cough!*. From behind, a torrent of water had risen up from the pond, solidified into ice, and impaled him through the right side of his body.

“Over here!” The sound of yelling came from across the yard, along with the burning glow of a torch.

“Such loyalty is worthy of praise.” Unsheathing his xeberite sword, Kaidus stepped forward to stand face to face with the man. “If you don’t wish to answer, that’s fine with me too.”

“N- *Kuhak!* ug-” The Lord tried to speak, but could not as another spear of ice pierced him through the neck. Eyes welling with tears, the man attempted to retaliate by flailing an arm but failed miserably.

“Assassin!! Help!” Someone shouted from behind.

Turning around, a guard was standing there with a torch in one hand and sword in the other. “Stay your hands. My business is not with you or anyone else.”

“Murderer!” The guard screamed, edging closer without looking way.

Illuminated by the light of the torch, he saw that the guard’s faces was filled with shock and fear. Instead of watching him, the man was staring at the body suspended upon an ever flowing spire of water—rising from the pond and into the lord’s back. Catching the guard’s eyes, he could see that the man knew he was a mage.

“R-release the Lord right now!!” The man ordered, moving forward hesitantly while holding his weapon with unsteady hands.

“This is not your fight. Do not be so eager to throw your life away.” Kaidus replied, turning back to the dying man. Ignoring the guard, he leaned closer to the agent. “With this, you will serve a new purpose.” With a single motion, he thrust his sword into the man’s heart.

“Noo!!” The guard screamed.
“Lord Olivas?!” Others shouted, having just arrived. The dozen new guards quickly readied their weapons and surrounded Kaidus. “Don’t let him escape!” Someone shouted, yet upon seeing the state of their lord, many froze as whispers of terror shot through the chaotic atmosphere.

With a silent calmness, Kaidus reached down and removed the ring around the dead man’s finger before taking steps back onto the pond. Without any parting words, he surged upward into the air. The rings that were still floating about swiftly followed behind, along with a piercing howl that caused the guards to cover their ears.

The deed was done. All that was left, was to allow for words of what transpired to reach the ears of those who mattered. With their watchdog on the king gone, it might possibly force the remnants of Tal’hrus to start moving, to seek their master’s commands.

…

By the time the residents of Maverus awoke to greet the new day, he was already back in his room at the Golden Leaf Inn.
The seven metal rings swirled around the room, keeping Zirus busy while he stared at the map sprawled out on the table. Five rings he had taken from the man who called himself Eril the Frozen Blade, one from the Countess Belinde, and the seventh from the man he had just slain—the king’s advisor.

“Dolas Egregin…” The name rolled out of his mouth as Kaidus scanned the map before him. Of the three he was informed about, two were no more, and he was trying to ascertain as to which of the marks to the south of Maverus, was the slave town of Garnikul.

‘Master.’ A voice dutifully resounded in his mind.

“Where is it?” He questioned, not taking his eyes off the map.

The air ignited in the center of the room, and an entity of pure white manifested.

Upon Vishan’s appearance, Zirus quickly darted over to him, slithering up his arms to hide inside his shirt.

“The Shard Lies To The West. Unconcealed, But Hidden Behind Powerful Magic.” The spirit answered with a disembodied voice that resonated through the room, causing the dawn’s light to shimmer and vibrate. “Shall I Retrieve It?” It questioned.

“No. I will do that myself. Thank you.”

“By your will, Master.” As quickly as it emerged, Vishan dissipated and vanished.

He had ordered the spirit to seek out Eril’s piece of the Nyzacus Mirror upon their arrival in Maverus, and as expected, it did not take long for the spirit to locate the shard.

“Kuurrrr…” Zirus growled softly and cautiously, before slithering out from the opening in the front of his over shirt.

“There is no need to do that every time you see them.”

“Shrra!” It hissed as if to refute the statement, then yawned and launched itself off the table, flying up to the floating rings once more.

Feeling his own fatigue setting in, he quickly folded the map and tucked it away before moving to the bed. Seeing him do so, Zirus quickly flew over and nestled itself beside him. Morning has arrived, but it’s been a long night for the both of them.

 

***

 

-Darsus-

A band of weary riders entered the 3^rd ward gate of southern Ferrent. The cheeriness that they left the city with days ago was gone, and in its place, a somber and morose sense of emptiness.

At the front with two of his guards, Alzin Varath wordlessly rode through the streets, moving toward the 11th ward.
Good men had died, and the burden weighed on him heavily. He had chosen to employ them, had befriended them, had entrusted them with his life, and now they were dead. Two men in a single afternoon, with four more injured.
As much as he was their responsibility, they were his.

Slowing his horse, he turned back to look at the three who were tied up and locked in a cart behind them: two mercenaries, and a notable lord’s son—tied together like common criminals. They had been able to capture the lordling along with the two archers who were hiding in the trees, but lost the two men who fled.

“My lord should we-”

“No. Let them see.” Lord Varath replied, ushering his horse forward as a curious crowd formed around them, trying to get a good look at what was happening.

Behind, a second cart carrying the two dead men bought up the rear. Although covered with layers of cloth obtained in Gravas, the pungent odor of death easily persisted through the air.

…

“What do you think you are doing to my son?!” An outraged man, followed by an entourage of family knights rode out to meet them as they approached the gates of the 11^th ward. Although fuming and looking less than dignified, the man’s fine clothes and status more than made up for his lack of composure.

“F-Father!” Ralfus cried out from his shameful position.

“My lord. How nice of you to personally come greet us. I see you’ve also brought company.” Alzin Varath greeted, looking stoically at Lord Vatenger. The man was as daunting as usual, but he was not about to give in to loud threats.

“Get my son out of there right now, Varath! Parading him around like an animal, don’t think your money will save you this time!”

“I dare say the same to you, my lord. Your son is in my custody on the grounds of conspiracy and murder. He and his accomplices ambushed us on the road, injuring my men and killing two of them.” Lord Varath countered sternly. “Perhaps you know why he would do such a thing? Or will you step aside and allow us to proceed, so that we may escort him to the proper authorities?” He questioned, not showing any signs of weakness.

“Murder? Accomplices?” Aelod Vatenger shot his son a sharp glance, and Ralfus kept silent. He then looked at the two brigands, then to the group of Varath guards. His eyes stopped upon a man with red hair riding beside his son’s cart. ‘It can’t be.’ Everything became clear upon seeing the man.
Ralfus’ disappearance for the past few days, the absurd amount of money that disappeared in the boy’s name, and the frequent visits to the common wards.
His insides turned at realizing what his son had done.
Almost trembling, he got off his horse and forced himself to move toward his son.
Two Varath guards quickly stepped in the way and blocked him.

“Father! I didn’t do anything! I didn’t kill anyone!” Ralfus shouted, trying to struggle from his bindings.

“You fool… I told you. I forbade you! Now look what you’ve done!” Lord Vatenger shouted, admonishing the stupid boy.

“My lord. Please step away.” Lord Varath spoke, turning his horse forward once more.

“… Release him.”

“I beg your pardon?”

“Please release my son.”

“You know I cannot do that. Now please step away.” Lord Varath refused and directed his horse to move once more.

“Varath!” Aelod Vatenger shouted, returning all eyes to him. “I know our relations are… less than amicable, but I implore you. Please, give my son back to me.”

“This has nothing to do with our relations, nor is it because I wish to see you and yours fall. Two men were killed in cold blood because of him, and I will not rest until justice has been served. Not for myself, but for the family of my men who were unjustly slaughtered.” Alzin Varath replied solemnly. “Now step aside.”

“Father!! FATHER!” Ralfus shouted as the horses began moving again.

“STOP!” Lord Vatenger bellowed, and his family knights quickly maneuvered to block the gates to the 11^th ward.

The Varath guards immediately readied themselves for a fight, and two of them moved forth to protect their lord. “What is the meaning off this?” Lord Varath questioned, keeping his aggravation from showing.

Instead of replying, Aelod Vatenger knelt down on his knees. “As a parent-”

“FATHER!” Ralfus shouted from the cart.

“-I beg you… please… he is my youngest son.” Lord Vatenger lowered his head. “If your claims are true and should this matter be brought before the king, you have my words that we will neither run nor hide. I will see to it that he takes responsibility for his actions, and I will provide the necessary compensations for you and yours.”

“…” Lord Varath looked to the Vatenger knights, then at his own guards. Both sides were prepared for battle, and it felt as if a full blown skirmish would occur—should he refuse. Yet, “I cannot. For that is not my choice to make.” He firmly replied.

“Is there no way?” Aelod Vatenger questioned, rising from his kneeling position.

“Troyle.” Lord Varath called out, and Troyle rode forward to join them. “You were the target of the attack and also the one who caught him. I’ll leave the decision up to you.”

Troyle looked to the graying lord who had been pleading before them, then turned around and rode back to the cart holding the prisoners. Getting off his horse, he drew one of his swords.

“What are you-?!”

“Noo!! No! What are you doing?!” Ralfus exclaimed.

“Cutting you free.” Troyle replied, sliding the sword in to cut the ropes binding the young man to the other two.

…

“Are you sure about this?” Lord Varath questioned after the Vatengers and their entourage had left.

“No. But as a parent myself, I cannot deny a man his child. Even if they do try to flee, it would only damage their name and house.” Troyle answered, watching the group leaving into the distance.

“… Perhaps…” The lord looked to the remaining two prisoners, then to the second cart, and a despondent expression appeared on his face.

“My lord. Please let me do it.”

“Do what?”

“Be the one to relay the news.” Troyle replied, looking to the covered bodies on the cart. “The families deserve to know what happened directly from someone who was there.”

“… Alright. Take Petres with you. Reassure the families and please give them my condolences.”

“I will.”

“And Troyle. There’s no need to report after you two are done. Go home and take the next few days off. I’ll send a messenger once I’m done with everything on my side.”

“My lord? … Understood.” Troyle complied without digging any further. Unlike his usual carefree self, Alzin Varath’s conduct and attitude had completely changed. After almost a decade of working under the man, he knew better than to question when his lord was in such a state. Leaving Lord Varath’s side, he made his way to the back where the man named Petres was positioned.

 

—

 

*SLAP!*
Dirty and unwashed, Ralfus stood before his father, holding the side of his face with his left hand. The stinging pain on his right cheek was but a testament to his screw up, and the least of his worries.

“Do you understand what you’ve done?!”

“…”

“WELL?!”

“Y-yes father.” Ralfus meekly answered.
Against his outcries, the two men who were captured after him had blurted out everything to their captors: about who their target was, that he—Ralfus—knew about the Varath’s trip to Gravas and instigated everything, how they had waited for the group on the road, and how the attack was planned to look like an unfortunate robbery.

His fate had been uncertain, but now that he was home and within the walls of the city, the worse they can possibly do to someone like him was imprisonment, or exile. And though the Varath house was one of the wealthiest within Ferrent, his own Vatenger house was also quite affluent and had many powerful allies that could be called upon, should anything happen.

“No, I don’t think you do, for you’ve doomed us both!” Lord Vatenger exclaimed, staring angrily at his son. “When he hears about this, it will be the end of us!”

“F-father?”

“GRRAAAH!” Aelod Vatenger turned and slammed an angry fist into the table behind him. “Who was it?!? Who put you up to this?!”

“W-what are you talking about?” Ralfus replied, shrinking back away from his father.

“Look at me!!” Aelod Vatenger strode forward and grabbed his son’s shoulders, pressing onto the stump where the boy’s right arm should have been. “Who put you up to this?!”

“N-no one.”

“Lies upon lies! I expressly forbade you to do anything like this! A coward like yourself would never dare to act on your own! Who put you up to this?!”

“I-… I am not a coward…”

“Tell me!”

“I am not a coward! I did this because- because you refuse to! It’s because of you!!!”

*SLAP!*

“Gu-!!
Ralfus quickly covered his cheek once more. This time, the gemmed ring upon his father’s hand had broken skin and he could feel blood trickling down his cheek. In anger, he glared at his father. “I am not a coward. I was not the one who got on his knees and begged to those below me!”

“You think that’s what I’m worried about? Groveling to that man? You ignorant fool.” Aelod Vatenger replied, holding his shaking hand that had struck his son. Taking a few steps back, he fell into his armchair. “We are well beyond that now. What this is, is a matter of life and death for the family. If this was truly your plan and yours alone, then I am afraid I can offer you no more protection.” He stated, watching his son through pained eyes. “You are a man now. Fully grown and able to shoulder your own responsibilities. When the time comes, and make no mistake for it will, you will own up to the consequences and save this family from any more indignity.”

“W-what are you talking about?”

“…” Aelod brought his hands up and covered his wretched face to conceal the tears. He knew full well that he was sacrificing his youngest child, but there were no other options. What he had seen that night was still burned into the back of his mind: a constant reminder of what they were up against.

“Father!”

“… I am talking about your life, you stupid boy.”
‘You will stay away from my family if you know what’s good for you. Should you ever be involved…’ The warning rang in his head, almost as clear as the night he heard them.

Unloading his belongings at the foot of the bed, Kaidus leaned his xeberite sword against the nightstand and took a look around the small room.

A sweet scent wafted through the air, coming from a jar of dried leaves in the corner, masking the odor of old sweat and vomit not too uncommon in such places. Not including the bed, the simple room had a table upon which the jar sat and two chairs, but nothing else.

He opened the window and new aromas drifted in along with the explosive livelihood of the outside. The sky had already gone dark and night was upon them, but as it was in most cities and towns, the night life had only just begun.

Looking up at the dark sky, he recalled Zirus’ cries when he instructed the youngling to stay behind in the woods outside of the city. The incessant growls, two silvery eyes filled with distress and abandonment, and the powerful grip on his left arm as it refused to separate from him. It was truly like a child, all the way down to the endearing selfishness.

Without much thought, he extended his right arm out the window and snapped his fingers twice, adding it to the discord of noises outside. Quietly watching the sky, barely any time had passed before an elongated form even darker than night emerged in the air, diving directly toward him.
With two silver eyes glowing dimly and not making a sound, the young hvaral stealthily descended before his window. Landing upon the outstretched arm, it quickly slithered up to his shoulders.

“Shrraa!” It hissed with delight before making its way off and onto the cold stone floor.

“Well done.” He smiled, seeing Zirus darting back and forth between the few items in the room. The youngling had been circling over the skies of Maverus ever since evening, and had been patiently awaiting his signal while flying high and staying hidden from sight.
It turned and made a content growl, then with a beat of its wings, leapt onto the table in the corner of the room and began sniffing the jar on top.
Poking and prodding around the room, it eventually settled down and climbed onto the bed, coiling itself into a pile of dark rings.

Seeing that Zirus had calmed down, he focused his vision toward a large silhouette that was alight with specks of torchlight in the distance: Maverus Castle. A grand structure, it was built atop an expansive and elevated part of the landscape that overlooked much of the city. Also surrounded by a wide moat, it towered above the rest of Maverus like a looming giant.

Unlike Ferrent which was fragmented into thirteen different wards, Maverus was one large open city. A thick layer of high rising stone fortifications encompassed the whole capital: from the isolated castle near its center, to both lower and upper Castletown, along with the slums and vast amounts of farmlands. A large river flowed from the northwest, forking and splitting the city in multiple divides as it traveled through to the east. The castle and wealthier upper town was located in the north where the river enters the city, the lower Castletown and markets taking up the center and eastern side where the city gates were located, whilst the farmlands and slums secured the south. The inn he was currently staying at was in the southwestern side of the city, bordering a fork of the river that separated the farmlands and slums.

Although the distinction between rich and poor was blindingly obvious, the city itself was peaceful enough, save for the unusual atmosphere that echoed with an air of dissonance and dread. The residents were uneasy, and he had taken notice of the many minute nuances or actions hidden beneath the people’s contrived cheerfulness. A hesitance here, hushed whispers there, an awkward stare that stood too long, or the abrupt and suspicious silence upon the appearance of a stranger.

Closing the window, Kaidus moved back to his bag and took out the five rings he had obtained from Eril. It’s been eight days since then, yet none of the remaining four had called for their master. ‘Have they finally caught on?’ He wondered, gripping the cold metal rings in his hands. From what he had seen so far of Tal’hrus, it was quite odd that they would remain silent for so long.

The sound of light footsteps came through the hallway outside, and he quickly stowed the rings away in his pocket before walking over to the door. “WHOA!?” A man cried out in surprise. The man was one of the inn’s few servants and was carrying a tray containing his dinner, along with a sizable cut of cured meat that he had ordered from the kitchen earlier. “That was quick. I was just about to come down.” Kaidus spoke, feigning amazement.

“You’re in the Golden Leaf, young master. We have the fastest services around here.” The man replied with a proud grin. “Now, if you could please step aside, I’ll set this down for you.”

“That’s alright, I’ll take it from here. Thank you.”

“Oh. Sure.” The servant carefully handed him the tray before taking a step back. “If you need anything else, please feel free to ask.” With a quick bow, the man turned around and walked away.

“Zirus.” He called after closing the door.
Reinvigorated by the sight of food, the youngling quickly rushed over to him.

…

A thin fog had risen by the time the city quieted down. Obstructed by the mist, the moonlight shining through his window gave off an eerie shattered glow.

Having rested for a while after dinner, he was once again strapping on his sword and donning his cloak. Zirus who had just woken up moved sluggishly by his foot, but the look in the young drakall’s eyes showed that it would not be left behind.

He was not planning on staying in Maverus for long, and if Tal’hrus would not call or come for him, then he would try to find them or flush them out. “Let’s go.” Opening the window, Kaidus leapt out of the room with Zirus following closely behind.

 

—

 

Sitting up on his bed, the man vacantly gazed at the wall of the large empty room. Although exhausted, he could not sleep, for his head was overflowing with thoughts that refuses to be extinguished. His mind sought peace, but his hopeless situation cycled through his head, adding to the endless pain and exhaustion.

Mindlessly trying to keep himself from thinking too much, he attempted to focus his attention onto the lucent rays that were constantly changing and twisting as they penetrated the thick mist outside. For how long he had been staring at it, he did not know.

“Are you the king?” An unknown voice inquired. The voice was different from those always shouting in his head, and it rang with a powerful tone that completely dominated the multitude of voices, silencing them into oblivion.

Having regained control of his mind, the man turned and blankly stared at the individual standing in the shadows. He had failed to notice the intruder entering the room and could only guess as to how long the man had been there with him. “… Are you here to kill me?” He replied, unconcerned and uncaring about what might come next.

“Is that what you were wishing for?” The voice answered, and the intruder stepped forth into the dim moonlight. The imposing figure he had envisioned in his mind vanished and in front of him, was a young man.

“You… who are you?” He questioned.
While the physical appearance was unlike what he had imagined, the boy’s two dark eyes pierced right through him.

“I am merely a traveler seeking answers. I am here, because my journey has brought me here. That is all.”

“Answers?” The man paused and lowered his head wearily. “Then you are in the wrong place… I am afraid there are no answers for you here, young traveler.”

“That remains to be seen. Now, are you the king?” The boy repeated once more.

“Am I the king?” Closing his eyes, a peaceful tranquility fell over him. He was indeed the king, yet circumstances dictated otherwise. “What good would that answer do for you?” He enquired without showing any signs of fear or emotion. “If you are not here to kill me, then I beg you to leave me in peace, so that I may wallow in my own solitude.”

“I am looking for some mages. Specifically those who fought during the war.”

‘Mages? The war?’ He looked up and carefully examined the boy, trying to discern why the child was after such information. “For what purpose?”

“My own.” A swift answer.

“A child of the outlands? Or perhaps a survivor seeking revenge?” … He waited, but the young man did not answer. “I am sorry for your loss, son. I don’t know what you are after, but if you were lucky enough to have survived this long, do not throw your life away.”

The young man took two steps forward and peered down at him. “A country ruled by fear. Children without parents. Families without security. And lords without morals. I had come to kill a tyrant, but all I see is a man at the end of his ropes, restless and troubled by actions he cannot control.” The child spoke solemnly, as if it were true. “Your eyes show me that you are a man who is ready to forsake everything. Tell me what I want to know, and I shall rid you of your guilt.”

“Huhuhu…” He laughed a dry, unamused laughter before locking eyes with the boy again. “Is that so? What would a child like you know? I will not call the guards, so leave whilst you still can.”

“Krruuuur!” Something growled angrily, and two small silver eyes peered out from under the boy’s hood. From inside the cloak, a large serpent—even darker than night—slithered out, settling itself atop the boy’s shoulders. In a single flare of motion, two pairs of wings shot outward, catching the moonlight like a thin translucent veil as the serpent proceeded to reveal its fangs.

“!” Seeing the beast before him. It was not a large snake, but a fledgling drakall.

“There’s no need to get angry, Zirus.” The boy’s voice wrapped around the room and the beast quickly drew back its head along with its wings. “Forgive him, for he is still young and unlearned in the ways of human interactions.” The boy apologized, his voice resounding through the air once more. “Allow me to explain myself. I am looking for a group of exceptionally skilled mages, belonging to a powerful organization. I’ve been told that one such group joined your side in the war. Perhaps you might be able to help me?”

“Tal’hrus…” His eyes widened at the boys words, and he whispered the name before he even thought about it.
It was because of Tal’hrus that the revolution had succeeded even after constantly being overwhelmed. It was because of them, that he was in the position he is today. Yet, it was also because of them, that the country had spiraled and devolved to the way it is now.
Catching what he had said, he looked up at the child. Two silver eyes glowing with an otherworldly aura were now staring at him from under the hood. Obscured by the shadows, the boy’s lips curved upward and he saw something else in the seemingly innocent smile, something that made his skin crawl.
“Where are they?” The young man questioned, and the three words thundered in his ears, compelling him to answer.

…

Having revealed what he could remember of those who joined his service towards the end of the revolution, he also proceeded to give up the locations of three he knew about: a woman who had rallied many to his cause and was granted the title of Countess. His personal advisor, whose job was to watch and keep him under their thumbs. And lastly, a man who was granted the now slave town of Garnikul.

“I heard two other men were bestowed titles. Who are they?”

“How did you-”

“That does not matter. What matters, is whether they are a part of Tal’hrus or not.”

“No… they are not. Count Rais and Count Validare were two of my most trusted allies. Their titles were bestowed upon them, so that they might be able to do what I cannot.”

“Might I enquire as to what that is?”

“To muster up a large enough force so that one day we might take back what is rightfully ours.” He replied.
His fate had been sealed the moment he was crowned King, but it was not so for the others. Their positions were the only things that he could grant them, and even then, it was still a risky maneuver against their watchers.

“I see. Thank you for everything.” The young man made a thankful bow and turned toward the door.

“Wait.” He called out, and the boy stopped. “Just what is it that you are planning to do, now that I have answered you?” 

The boy turned to him with a cold and detached expression. “I plan to start a fire. One so large, that the insects of Tal’hrus will flock to it. Once they have gathered, I will burn their wings and watch them squirm.”

A cold chill ran down his back, but he dared not show any signs of fear.

“How about you my lord? What will you do, now that you know what I am planning?”
Without waiting for an answer, the boy walked to the door and left his chambers.

As soon as the young man vanished from sight, the voices that had been silent all this time surged back into his head.

 

—

 

Light was beginning to pierce through the horizon, signaling the end of night as he arrived near the northern border of Maverus.
‘This is it.’
In the air, he stared down at the structure below. The large building was more of a fortress than anything else, and the fortifications along the outer walls only helped to reinforce such observations. Watching quietly from above, he saw a handful of guards moving throughout the building and grounds, going from one end of the fortress to the other in practiced rotations.

Just as he had done earlier when entering the castle, he descended upon one of the guards.

“Hands up.” He commanded, holding his sword against the guard’s neck whilst keeping himself hidden.

“P-Please. Please don’t kill me. I- I have a family.” The man quickly raised both hands and held his torch high above his head.

“Any sudden movements, and I cannot promise you anything. Do you understand?”

“Y-yes.”

“Now answer me this. Who is the lord of this manor?”

“I beg of you. Please.”

“I will not repeat myself.”

“H-His Lordship, Master K-Krain Olivas. R-Royal Advisor to his Majesty, King Luraj.”

It was indeed the right place. The guard had confirmed the name of the advisor, and all that was left, was to find the man himself. “Where is his chamber?”

“Uk- I-”

He pressed the blade closer against the man’s neck. “Speak.”

“T-third floor. Long hallway to the l-left.”

“Thank you.” His mana gushed outward, enveloping and forcing the man unconscious.

After hiding the body in a vacant room, Kaidus carefully and quietly made his way through the fortress, eventually arriving at a large double door located on the third floor. Exactly as the guard had told him, it was at the end of a long hallway without doors or windows.

‘Masssster…’ Zion’s voice called out in his head.

‘I know.’ By his will, the door slid open and he walked inside.

Like the hallway leading up to it, the room was pitch black and without windows. Four small stones protruded from the corners of the room, glowing weakly and emitting traces of magic. Without even thinking, his own mana flooded the stones and the room instantly lit up.

A flaming spear suddenly flew at him from the left side of the room and he stepped forward, smashing into the flames with a mana shield. “Don’t be hasty.” He calmly called out to the man that was already casting another spell.

“-Kiras! Em Eradas!” Power manifested in the center of the room as the man invoked.

Without calling for his spirits, his body exploded with mana. Power that had constantly been contained and restrained burst forth, overwhelming and disrupting the spell that had been invoked. His mana devoured the incomplete magic until there was nothing left, but a room overflowing with his own.

“Impossible!” A surprised cry came, and the man made a mad dash for the north wall of the room. With a quick incantation, the man threw himself against the wall and it shattered. 

A splash came from below, and as he was about follow, one of the five rings began to glow.