《Fire Beneath the Rain》 Introductions The rain poured relentlessly from the grey skies, it weighed heavily on their backs. Their vision was blurred by the intense downpour. The winds whipped through the woodlands, bending the trees to its will and cutting through their clothes. Their horses galloped full speed, but they couldn¡¯t outrun the storm. Lightning and thunder roared behind them as if the gods were in pursuit. Tek¡¯mer More¡¯ti, rode in front. He appeared young and lean, though his muscles never caught up to his height. Among the four of them, he was the only elf. His stark blue doublet grew a shade darker under the rain, his drenched puffy white sleeves glued to his sinewy arms. Following closely behind Tek¡¯mer was Jalems Woresole. An older man past forty, but still in good shape. Jalems bore their loot, an ancient amphora stashed in the leather knapsack he kept at his side. While Tek¡¯mer rode, he kept looking back at Jalems. It was a futile endeavor, he had too many other things preoccupying him. Apart from the reins of his horse, the night was dark as ink, and the rain obscured his sight. Nevertheless, suspicion lingered in Tek¡¯mer¡¯s mind like a putrid stench. He regretted not holding onto the relic himself, he never fully trusted humans. The girl landed face first into the ground, she was alone in a cave. A portal dissipated behind her, though she didn¡¯t notice its presence.The taste of mud and blood pungent on her tongue. She lifted herself from the soil, her head throbbed. She was young and slender as a knife. The girl observed her surroundings but nothing felt familiar. She looked down and noticed small letters engraved on her wrist. The word ¡°White¡± in neat cursive calligraphy. She looked upon the tiny marking with confusion, until its meaning fell into her remembrance. It was her name. Behind Jalems was Marie Woresole, his adopted daughter. A young girl seventeen years of age. She never met her parents, and though Jalems did his best as her father, she mourned her childhood. Lastly, behind Marie was Gale, the Drey. Most Dreys were identified by their petite build, lilac eyes and skin pale as milk. Though Dreys were an enslaved species, Gale salvaged freedom, an accomplishment her kind rarely achieved. While the others kept moving forward, the two lagged behind. The sky rumbled. Then suddenly a spear of lightning struck the ground. The blinding light illuminated their immediate proximity, and for a moment Marie could see clearly. The leaves looked like a thousand hands waving in the wind, in the distance she saw Gale beckoning to her. Behind her was a cave large enough for the group and their steeds. Marie¡¯s eyes widened. Her damp clothes stuck to her slim frame, she wanted nothing more than to find shelter. Marie yelled, in an attempt to alert the others, the wind swallowed her voice. She squinted in search of her companions, but the rainfall clouded her eyesight. She felt fear coil in her stomach like a snake, she lost sight of her father. An idea crawled into her mind, though she was uncertain of its success. She closed her eyes and focused all of her mental effort. Droplets of rain trickled down her pale skin. A sphere of fire slowly emerged in her palm. She felt the warmth burning bright in her hand, her eyes shot open. She launched it as far as she could, hopeful her plan would work. The fire flew through the air like a flare, coloring the sky fire engine red. From the ground, Jalems could see her signal. The projectile landed in front of Tek¡¯mer. The blaze sparked the ground only for a moment. His horse brayed lifting its forelimbs to avoid the flames. They both turned their horses around aware something had changed. Her head felt light, her temples pulsated, she felt her heart speed up. She knew the risks of her plan, but she pushed through. Marie yelled again, this time they heard her. White wandered closer to the entrance of the cave. The mist from the rain drifted inward. She could feel the moisture against her fair skin. Her wide-sleeved pastel dress was soft as sin, she felt almost naked. She rubbed the tattoo gently, hoping she could remember anything else that led her to this current situation, her mind was vacant. She heard horse hooves trotting towards her. The noise startled her, but she remained still. Gale strolled into the cave, a thick scarlet cloak covered her head. Her face hidden under the brim of the hood. She guided her beloved horse Wildfire behind her. She gave her that name because her mane grew red as rubies. Wildfire was different just like she was. White watched Gale, though her face was concealed by a covering, she could still see those eyes. Gale¡¯s eyes were a stark magenta, vibrant and intense. A glimpse of them seared into White¡¯s soul. She was speechless. A draft entered the cave, White felt her teeth chatter, her body trembled. She grabbed the nearest sticks she could find. Gale heard crackling from behind, her muscles tensed and her breathing quickened. She was accustomed to surviving. She escaped slavery when she was only twelve years of age, growing up her master looked for reasons to beat her and her people. Overtime Gale grew numb to his whip. She understood violence better than her mother tongue, it was all she knew. She turned around expecting to find an enemy, she was ready. But instead, she saw a young woman, with hair white as powder down to her ankles, fixing a fire. ¡°Who are you?¡± Gale asked, her accent was thick, it sounded like her tongue did not move when she spoke, but she could understand her. ¡°I¡¯m White, what¡¯s your name?¡± she said, a smile appeared on her face. Gale studied the girl¡¯s expression, she had never met anyone that looked quite like her. White shifted her focus back to sparking a fire, but the sticks she found were damp and brittle. Her efforts were useless. White became slightly frustrated, but she persisted, ¡°Why won¡¯t this work¡± she whispered, before she gave up, a flame ignited before her. The flame rose to the ceiling, then calmed to a safer acme. Gale took a step back. White examined her hands but nothing had changed. ¡°I-I don¡¯t know how that happened, but look we have a fire!¡± she said excitedly, she ran over to Gale and embraced her. Gale was breathless and unsure of what to do. Though the girl was a stranger, her scent disarmed Gale. Vanilla and honey filled her nose. White released her new friend from her arms, a cool chill entered the cave, she scurried back over to the flame. Her body shivered. It didn¡¯t help that all White wore was a thin off-the-shoulder dress. Her clavicle was exposed and the bottom barely covered her poulaines. The others finally entered the cave. They stationed their horses next to Wildfire. Their backs were turned to the flames. ¡°Since when do you know how to start a fire¡± Marie jested at Gale. She twisted her hair wringing the water from her golden curls. The others towered over Gale¡¯s tiny frame. Her skin pale as milk, she looked like an apparition standing next to them. Gale stayed quiet, she avoided making eye contact with the others. ¡°Good job Drey, you¡¯re finally good for something¡± Tek¡¯mer snorted unimpressed, he peered at her, with pupils white as cotton. Jalems unsheathed his sword, Iris, a double edge blade made of refined steel. Jalems earned it while serving a high lord, though life forced his path from riches to poverty. ¡°Who is this?¡± he grimaced, his lips encased by the thicket of his beard. Gale stepped in front of Iris, ¡°a friend¡± she fumbled under pressure, grasping for a name. ¡°I¡¯m White, it¡¯s nice to meet all of you¡± she grinned from ear to ear, unthreatened by the tension suffocating the confined space. Marie touched her father¡¯s wielding arm, her icy blue eyes softened him. She gave him the same look that always worked. He sheathed Iris securing the blade at his waist. Marie took one look at White, and could tell she was a friend. The cave was musty, the soil moved beneath them, but the warmth made it feel like home. White sat on one side of the fire, Gale next to her, and the rest of the group directly opposite from them both. ¡°Where are you from?¡± Tek¡¯mer inquired, his tone dry. The flames revealed his skin, dark as umber, his gaze unrelenting. Those sharp angular cheekbones made him intimidating. ¡°I don¡¯t know¡± White responded, her mind drew a blank. ¡°What are you doing out here?¡± Jalems jumped in, he crossed his arms waiting for a response. White paused, her eyelids fluttered, ¡°I don¡¯t know¡± she shrugged. ¡°Do you live near here?¡± Marie asked a softness behind her tone. Before White could respond ¡°Oh wait let me guess, you don¡¯t know¡± Tek¡¯mer interjected. ¡°I wish I could tell you more, but all I remember is waking up in this cave,¡± White apologized, her chiffon white hair washed out her skin. Her long tresses laid beside her in a small mound. Her soft facial features made it hard to find her untrustworthy. ¡°Well, this is a lost cause, onto more important matters¡± Tek¡¯mer turned to Jalems. ¡°Where¡¯s the relic?¡± he queried. Jalems pointed in the corner, the item bundled in leather bound by a thin rope. Tek¡¯mer shuffled over to the knapsack, eager to inspect its contents. Tek¡¯mer unraveled the bag, the ancient artifact glistened like gold. The handles were sculpted stallion heads. Rose, amber and fuschia-colored jewels encrusted its circumference, their color changed dependent upon the direction he held it. His eyes met with disappointment. It wasn¡¯t the artifact he was searching for, but he figured they still could get a good trade for it. Jalems kept his eye on Tek¡¯mer, he trusted him, but anxiety lingered in his gut like food he could not digest. That artifact would keep them afloat, for the time being, he could not afford for anything to happen to it. ¡°We should help her¡± Marie whispered tugging on the sleeve of her father¡¯s thick black cloak.¡°I know we¡¯re not supposed to take on other people¡¯s problems but,¡± Jalems interjected. ¡°You take on their problems once and you¡¯ll be doing it for the rest of your life¡± Jalems huffed, he sharpened a dagger with a whetstone. Marie rolled her eyes and mocked his gestures. ¡°But she¡¯s like the same age as me¡± she protested. ¡°What if...she was me¡± she uttered, her tone was sad and empathetic. Her chin sank between her knees. Jalems sighed, he stopped her. ¡°Fine, we¡¯ll escort her to a nearby village, after that she¡¯s no longer our concern¡± Jalems commanded, he held a gentleness in his voice. ¡°We have a deal?¡± Jalems lifted his pinky. She raised her head, ¡°deal¡± Marie smiled, she linked her finger with his sealing their arrangement. The narrative has been stolen; if detected on Amazon, report the infringement. *** Marie woke to sweet melodies of birds singing. The sun glazed over the cave. She covered her mouth as a fierce yawn parted her lips. She hadn¡¯t slept that well in ages. They departed for the nearest village. Marie and Jalems took the lead, behind them Tek¡¯mer, and at the rear Gale and White rode Wildfire. The streams of sunlight fingered through the lush greenery. The air smelled crisp and sweet with rustic leaves blowing in the chilly winds of Fall. ¡°Where are we headed again?¡± Marie looked at Jalems beside her. He kept his focus on the dirt road ahead of them. ¡°Brinebourne,¡± he said sharply, ¡°just think, on a day like this you were born,¡± he mentioned, Marie¡¯s eyes narrowed unsure of what that meant to her. Jalems told Marie when she was seven that she was adopted, though he never mentioned much of her parents. Her chest tightened whenever she thought of the subject. She wondered what kind of people they were and often daydreamed of the life she should have had. ¡°What were they like?¡± Marie asserted, she could feel her temper stirring. Jalems turned to her, his forehead wrinkled, ¡°Who?¡± he knew who, he prolonged the conversation hoping she would drop it. ¡°My parents, what were they like?¡± she asked, Jalems sighed heavily, he cleared his throat. ¡°I never knew your parents, I only found you,¡± Jalems said, he became impatient. He wanted to leave the topic in the past, it was too painful for him to remember that day for more than one reason. ¡°You didn¡¯t try to find them? I mean who just leaves a baby lying in the dirt to fend for herself¡± Marie grew upset the more she thought about it, her cheeks flushed pink with fury. ¡°I tried my best to find them, I did¡± Jalems lied. Though he always promised to tell her the truth. Some truths are too difficult to say out loud and she was not ready to hear it. ¡°From that day forward I vowed before the Gods to protect you,¡± Jalems said, Marie scoffed at his attempt to give her an answer. Her attitude infuriated him, ¡°And that¡¯s what I did¡± he shouted, his voice startled a flight of crows. The trees repeated his words. Marie became quiet, she turned her face eastward. She didn¡¯t want him to see her tear-filled eyes. ¡°Where are you from?¡± White asked, her high-pitched voice alarmed Gale. White placed her hand on Gale¡¯s forearm. Her body was shaking, she relaxed slightly under her touch. ¡°Are you okay?¡± White wondered. Gale responded with a slight nod. It felt brutal and unconvincing. ¡°Then why are you shaking?¡± White meddled, digging her gaze into Gale. She averted her eyes, though she was no longer a slave she carried the trauma with her like a waterskin. White backed away from Gale. She felt an uneasiness brewing. ¡°I didn¡¯t mean to pry¡± White lamented. Gale looked back at White, her lips formed a brief smile. ¡°You didn¡¯t pry, I was always told to never make eye contact and when I did-¡± Gale struggled, her expression went blank. She felt numb for a moment, stuck in a recurring memory of her past. ¡°And when you did?¡± White asked, her voice brought Gale back to the present. ¡°Nothing¡± she shifted her gaze back to facing forward. *** The clouds had turned tangerine, they knew they needed to find shelter before nightfall. Upon arrival in Brinebourne, a rural town buzzing with liveliness, their first stop was a bustling tavern. The interior mirrored an aged-pecan color, the tables were so well kept they glimmered in the sunset. Jalems marched to the barkeep, Marie rolled her eyes at her father. The rest of the group nabbed a table by an open window. White lagged behind she was too busy drinking in her surroundings. The barkeep brought Jalems an ale in a tall frost-covered mug, he downed the glass before it touched the mahogany counter top. ¡°Long trip huh?¡± the barkeep laughed, he cleaned a beer mug with a towel he pulled from his waist. His hands were riddled with age spots. Jalems wiped his mouth with the back of his fingerless gloves.¡±If you only knew¡± he chuckled. ¡°How¡¯s the wife?¡± Jalems asked, the man stopped cleaning. His eyes saddened, ¡°the sickness took her.¡± the barkeep mumbled. Jalems regretted asking that question. He still hadn¡¯t faced his own grief, let alone share someone else¡¯s. ¡°But one day, if the Gods allow it, I¡¯ll see her again. So that gives me my peace¡± the old man beamed, he started wiping down the counter. Jalems feigned a smile. The barkeep poured him another round. ¡°Jalems, I don¡¯t know who you screwed over this time, but I¡¯m not sure if I can house you tonight¡± he warned. The barkeep¡¯s frail grey hair blew lightly as the front door opened. Jalems jaw tightened ¡°Come on, all I need is one night and we¡¯ll be out of your hair,¡± he beseeched. Jalems was a proud man, but he¡¯d do anything for his little girl, even beg. The barkeep hesitated, his jowly face frowned, his lips formed a hard line. The only thing he had left to live for was his establishment, and Jalems¡¯ presence would put that at risk. ¡°Alright one night, but that¡¯s it no more Jalems, I mean it.¡± he reminded. Jalems grinned, he finished his second glass. A bright canary yellow butterfly attracted White¡¯s attention. She eyed the creature, keeping up as it passed each window until she found herself floating out of the entryway. Marie scanned the pub looking for White. She spotted her prancing outside. Jalems walked over to the group, he blocked her sight ¡°Marie, we¡¯ve done our part, best let her be on her way¡± he reminded her. Marie kept her eyes on White, she was protective of her, though she didn¡¯t know why. Tek¡¯mer felt something, he never could find the words. It was a sensation that left as quickly as it came. A high-pitched noise pierced his ears, his breath became heavy. He recognized the feeling it never meant anything good was about to happen. A loud horn permeated the tavern walls. The sound was deafening, it brought the liveliness to a halt. Marie could feel her heart beating through her clothes. ¡°Come out Thieves, we have you surrounded.¡± A Crimson Guard announced, his voice stoic and menacing, the group froze in their tracks, while the other patrons scurried to the exits. Crimson Guards were highly-trained knights. They served King Cerulean, ruler of the realm Luition. They called him the Just King, though his methods were quite brutal. Marie ignited two small orbs of fire in both hands. Jalems readied Iris, his palms sweaty with anxiety. Tek¡¯mer pulled a dagger from his side, the jewels glittered on its hilt. Gale¡¯s eyes gleamed a shade brighter. They were ready or at least they believed they were. A handful of Crimson Guards stormed the tavern. Jalems lunged forward he easily cut down the first two, another rushed in and surprised him. Before he could attack, the soldier was engulfed in flames. Jalems looked behind him, Marie folded over, her head was pounding. She wrapped her temples with her forearms. The immense pain pulsated behind her eyes, it brought Marie to her knees. Jalems rushed to his little girl, he couldn¡¯t bear to see her in such agony. Marie raised her head, ¡°look out¡± she shouted. The pub flooded with soldiers armored in crimson. Their polished musket rifles aimed at the group. The click of their rifles rippled. The four of them had no choice but to resign. A dozen Crimson Guards pulled them out of the establishment. Their hands bound behind their back, thick metal collars slapped on their necks. The Crimson Guards lined them up with their shoulders touching. They raided their personal items. ¡°I got it¡± A lowly guard announced, he ripped the relic from Jalems¡¯ knapsack. The commanding officer stepped forward, planting his feet before Jalems. ¡°You realize you stole from the King?¡± the commander said, he stepped closer to Jalems. ¡°If you¡¯re going to kill me, you need to include your Majesty, he stole that from the Ashmor temple.¡± Jalems shouted. The commander chuckled ¡°that place no longer exist,¡± he turned his back to him. ¡°That¡¯s a lie¡± Jalems interjected the collar forced him still, the man turned around and stepped in front of Jalems. He stood face to face in front of him. He towered over Jalems, he had to lift his chin to look him in the eyes. ¡°You can¡¯t openly disregard the king and not expect repercussions,¡± he sneered. Jalems eyes widened. The commander walked behind his troop. ¡°By order of King Cerilium of Luition, the Law of the Land and Keeper of Peace¡± the commander stopped, he fixated his gaze on Jalems though he was referring to all of them. ¡°I sentence you to die.¡± White headed back to the alehouse from her spontaneous adventure. The butterfly rested on her shoulder like a broach. The insect was drawn to her. White felt a certain connection to nature, she couldn¡¯t explain it. Abrupt loud shouting voices scared off her new friend. She looked around, but all she could see were trees standing over her. The noise continued, she walked closer to it, and spotted a group of men dressed in crimson armor. She cowered behind bushes. She looked closer observing the spectacle, she saw Marie and the others chained by their necks. White covered her mouth, she knew she had to do something, but what could she do against twelve professional killers. Marie grasped for her father¡¯s hand, their fingers fiddled until they interlocked. She tried forcing the collar off with a spell, her powers stretched the collar¡¯s chains, but it was resistant to her strength. The metallic collar was cold and unbending. She could feel the life escaping her body under its suffocating weight. Jalems knew there was no talking about of this one. The weight around his neck forced him to cough viciously, and veins protruded from his forehead. His face was turning beet red, he was angry and afraid, he had failed his family again. Gale¡¯s neck was too small for her chains. Though her hands were tied behind her back, she was cutting away at the hemp with her fingernails. She kept her moves slow and effective to go unnoticed, but she had barely reached half way through the rope, her heart raced she knew she was running out of time. She didn¡¯t escape bondage to die in chains. Tek¡¯mer, was the calmest of them. A deep sigh escaped his mouth, almost like he was getting bored by their prolonging it. He stood still completely unbothered by the chains and ropes that subdued him. He had lived his life, and he was ready to die, unashamed. White shuffled closer to the scene. She saw them lined up like cattle and linked together with chains. The image triggered a memory. She had been at this very moment in her life before, powerless. She stepped into another place, a different time. The remembrance felt real, she had stumbled into an alternative reality, a post-apocalyptic ruin. The air reeked of exhaust and death, she covered her nose, but the smell was unrelenting. Three people stood on the gallows, thick nooses around their necks. The accused, shared her face and hair color, but they felt foreign. The crowd was wide as the sea, they hurled insults at the accused and shoved against one another like a mosh pit. A guard shot one in the air to calm them. She squeezed through the crowd making her way forward. White had finally reached the front, she stood a few feet from the gallows. She locked eyes with her sister, she had to make a choice. Risk it all, or regret it forever. She lunged forward extending her arm, but before she could intervene, the floor under them dropped. She heard their heads disconnect from their spines. White gasped, her eyes filled with rage and tears. She dropped to her knees, hopeless. The faces around her paused in unison. They turned to her when they heard sobbing. Her cries echoed in the crowd, the air was silent not even the wind said a word. Her face was buried in her palms. They regarded her, not with empathy, but anger. To them, she was mourning the deaths of people who brought with them famine and destruction. White stopped crying, something had changed. She felt their eyes on her, she leapt to her feet holding her dress in her hands. They closed in from all sides. She hurried towards the postern, it was only a few feet away, yet in the moment it felt much further, she could feel them clawing at her dress and her long hair. The mob chased her like prey, they threw their bodies at her, they were hungry for her blood as well. She ran fast as her feet would allow, and in the process a ring of light formed in front of her. She jumped through it arms first. The circle closed behind. Somehow she escaped the dark colorless world and reemerged back to where she began, in the forest. She folded over taking a moment to understand what just occurred. Was that real. Did that happen now or in a different world. How much time had passed. It frustrated her like a scratch just out of reach. A picture of Marie popped in her mind, She remembered they needed her, she wondered if there was still time. This was her second chance. She bolted towards them. ¡°Fire¡± Their rifles rang out simultaneously, one shot each. Marie clenched her eyes bracing for certain death. Bodies dropped onto the gravel. She opened her eyes, the first thing she saw was the Crimson Guards laid dead. Blood soaked the ground under their armor. A bullet in the head for every one of them. She scanned the surroundings, no one was left alive. She was so focused on the dead guards, she didn¡¯t even notice White standing there. The wind stirred her hair behind, the look in her eyes Marie would never forget. The friendly girl they met in the cave, was not the same woman before them. This should have terrified Marie, instead, she was intrigued. White¡¯s eyes were contained pure-white flames. She was as equally beautiful, as she was terrifying. White stretched open her hand, she moved her wrist in a small circle, her fingers flowed like ribbon. A moment later their collars popped off their necks and their chains rolled off of them. The solid metal made a loud thud on the ground, dust bounced from the dirt. Marie¡¯s eyes widened, her mouth agape. Garett - 1 A young man, in his mid-twenties, sat alone in his hut. The pressures of feeding his people weighed heavily on his shoulders. He found peace when he stared into the fire. Garett became the leader of the rebels after his father, Spruce, named the Rebel King, was killed leading a raid towards Westercrest, the second largest city in Luition. The small bonfire glimmered against his skin, a smooth shade of copper. The night was dark as obsidian. A messenger opened the flap to his tent, he was out of breath. He stretched his arm with a scroll in hand. ¡°A raven¡± Garett snatched it out of his grip. The Blackbird has fled into the night, her wings wide and feathers bright. He balled up the note within his grasp. He scowled, he knew this meant nothing good for their cause. The rebels sent messages in riddles so if intercepted, the reader remained ill-informed. A scroll about a black bird meant a death or a disappearance. ¡°Garett, scouts have reported Cobalt nearby, what should we do?¡± he said, Fear struck Garett¡¯s face, just by the sound of that name. ¡°Cobalt you say, are you sure?¡± Garett asked. ¡°Yes, I wouldn¡¯t take that lightly, he¡¯s merciless, Word has it he steals people in night. I bet that¡¯s what that scroll is about isn¡¯t it?¡± the messenger asked, Garett did not speak a word, but his silence served as confirmation. The messenger continued ¡°We need to do something about it.¡± he commanded, though he maintained respect for his king. Garett was still, his lips quivered. He had encountered a battle against Cobalt before, it didn¡¯t end well for him and his father. He wanted revenge, at the same time he knew the horrors he was capable of, for the first time in a while, he was faced with indecision. Noises from outside distracted them, he was fearful the enemy struck under the cover of darkness. He marched out of the hut, his trusted advisor at his side. His people consisted of humans, Dreys, and Muhrs alike, everyone had a part to play. The humans who followed his cause fell on the lower end of the socioeconomic spectrum. Dreys were typically an enslaved species, but in Newbury, they were free. Muhrs were another disadvantaged group, considered animals in human flesh. Their skin the color of burnt amber. Their hair thick and matted reeked of dirt and fragrant oils. Love this novel? Read it on Royal Road to ensure the author gets credit. Together, in Newbury, these marginalized groups formed a community. They built homes together, broke bread with one another, however, occasional cultural disagreements arose between them. In the distance, a heated argument ensued between a Muhr and a human. Their chests pressed together, they exchanged words aggressively. Garett couldn¡¯t make out their debate. The human shoved first, his push had no effect, his opponent¡¯s hair was his armor. The Muhr wrinkled his brow, he shoved back forcing him to the ground with ease. Garett rushed over to diffuse the fight before chaos emanated. He placed himself between them.¡°We need each other, remember who the real enemy is,¡± he yelled while looking back and forth between the two of them. A silence intensified the moment. The Muhr clenched his fist, but then walked away, it seemed he had won the fight before it began. Garett helped the man to his feet and dusted the dirt off his back. ¡°I don¡¯t trust them¡± the man whispered in Garett¡¯s ear. ¡°You don¡¯t have to forever, only for now¡±, he mumbled. Garett was faced with an impossible task. Uniting people who despised one another to fight a greater enemy, but he knew there was no other way. ¡°Garett¡± a voice called out, ¡°we¡¯ve got something,¡± a messenger asserted. He followed him, the young man led him to a tree where they had restrained a Crimson Guard. His face was badly beaten, full of fresh blood. Garett lowered to his eye level, ¡°tell me what you know¡± Garett commanded. The Crimson Guard shivered, Garett found it fascinating to see one of the mercenaries so vulnerable. ¡°If I tell you what I know you¡¯ll let me go?¡± the Crimson Guard asked, his body trembling. ¡°Depends on if I like what you say. What are you doing out here?¡± he inquired, his voice soothing. ¡°The King sent us to reclaim a stolen artifact, we found the thieves but¡­¡± he stopped, he recalled the tragic event. His expression went blank, as if he was in a trance. ¡°But what?¡± Garett asked, trying to refocus the man¡¯s gaze. ¡°She killed them, she killed them all. She made them turn on themselves. I didn¡¯t sign up for that ya know.¡± he bawled, terror filled his face. ¡°Who?¡± Garett growled. ¡°Some girl, she was tiny as a stick, she had white hair like a ghost¡± he mumbled. ¡°You¡¯re telling me a little girl killed a dozen Crimson Guards,¡± a spectator asked in disbelief. The crowd behind him boomed with laughter. ¡°I say we kill him,¡± the man continued. The crowd roared in agreement. Garett stood before them, a hush fell over the group. ¡°No¡± Garett commanded, ¡°we are better than them¡±. Cobalt - 1 Cobalt raced between the trees on his destrier. The wind chill blew silently, he could feel his face absorbing the cold. The leaves whistled as he passed. Light beads of sweat formed on his pale skin glistening under the moonlight. He slowed his horse to a light trot, his companion Clay right behind him. The king¡¯s son, Cobalt, ravaged through the forest. They had been hunting animals all day, but Cobalt wanted to play another one of his games, in particular, his favorite hide and seek. ¡°I love a good hunt¡± Cobalt said, a devilish smile crept on his face, steam escaped his lips as he spoke. He embellished himself with fine leather and wolf fur, the animal, he wore as a trophy. It was a deep charcoal grey, so soft it felt like touching running water. They came to a halt. Cobalt scanned their area, in search of the other participant. He observed the trees, then the horizon but for a second he wasn¡¯t sure which direction to follow. ¡°My prince, perhaps we should turn back we¡¯re a hard ride from the Capital, our armor is not suited for such unforgiving weather.¡± Clay suggested, his body trembled in the below freezing temperature. Cobalt darted eyes at him, his face grew hot with frustration. ¡°Does the night frighten you, surely the Lord Commander of the Crimson Guard has a stomach for blood.¡± Cobalt looked on the ground and found footprints in the soil. The clue he was searching for had revealed itself. He plodded on in their direction, unbothered by his subject¡¯s request. Clay acquiesced and caught up with his prince, it was a death sentence to refuse him. Cobalt enjoyed hunting, far more than any man should, for him it wasn¡¯t about the prey. In his mind it wasn¡¯t about the killing, but about something else. The one thing a lifetime supply of gold and privilege couldn¡¯t afford him. A Muhr dashed through the thicket of trees, ducking low branches, leaping over logs. He ran as fast as he could as if something was pursuing him. He sensed there was something right on his tail, so close he could feel breathing on his nape. Was it his imagination or had they caught up with him. Nonetheless he couldn¡¯t take any chances, he needed to run and fast, it was too late to rely on his people coming to his rescue. He ran into a river long in width and the waters calm. He stopped, panic was setting in his chest like a dry cough. Though he could see the other side, it still felt too far. He looked for a boat or any type of logs, but he had no such luck. Behind him, he heard horse hooves closing in. They sounded close enough to peek through the trees at any moment. It was now or never. He ran into the stream confident he could make it across. His movements became slower after every step, kicking the waters became more and more difficult. After a handful of steps his legs froze in the water. His teeth chattered uncontrollably, the water was so cold it felt like it attacked his bones. Despite his best efforts, he could not find the strength to continue. This book was originally published on Royal Road. Check it out there for the real experience. Cobalt reached a wide stream of water, he had located his prey. Excitement filled his expression. To Cobalt this was simply a game, and he had the advantage. ¡°Hand me Phantom.¡± Cobalt stretched his arm towards his companion, keeping his attention forward. ¡°Are you certain my Prince¡± Clay knew what was about to happen, he hoped to prolong it. ¡°I should not have to ask twice¡± Cobalt commanded, Clay handed him a double-curved wooden bow taller than he was. Cobalt snatched it from Clay¡¯s grip cutting his eyes at his companion. Cobalt gently removed an arrow from his quiver, careful not to alarm the other player of his location. He placed a feathered arrow carefully in the bowstring. His movements were slow and calculated like threading a needle. Cobalt¡¯s eyes gleamed an arctic blue, a subtle frost outlined Phantom, it mimicked his eye color. The weapon lifted from his grip, and hovered above them both. Clay watched Phantom levitate upward into the night sky, the arrow had not moved an inch. Cobalt kept his eyes ahead, his gaze remained on the hairy beast knee deep in the water. Cobalt felt his body growing colder the longer he held his weapon. It was so cold it burned. A layer of frost began freezing the arrow and in the process, it doubled in size. His fingers and toes turned a shade paler, he felt a thousand needles poking at them all at the same time, but he endured the pain, for him it strangely calmed him. All he focused on was his target, and this time he would get it right the first try. In one swift motion the arrow released itself. Cobalt blinked, his eyelids fluttered and his eyes returned to their normal cinnamon color. The projectile pierced the Muhr¡¯s chest, he looked down and saw the sharp end of the arrow peeking through his sternum. The frozen arrow stunned his body upon impact, he felt the frost seeping into his body. He coughed up a mouth full of blood. He dropped to his hands and knees, then fell face first into the freezing cold water. The river flowed red around his lifeless body. ¡°Bulls eye, I¡¯m getting good at this¡± Cobalt exclaimed, a wide smile brightened his face. Clay was less than enthused. ¡°Father has banned me from using magic, I don¡¯t see why¡± Cobalt continued. He buried his hands into his fur. He had an idea as to why his father prohibited him from using magic, but he never explained in detail. Everytime Cobalt used his powers, he felt different afterwards. He figured it meant he had grown stronger, but deep inside the change felt off, it couldn¡¯t figure out what it meant. He leaped from his horse and marched toward his victim. Clay dismounted and followed behind his Prince. Phantom dropped from the sky into Clay¡¯s arms, he gasped he figured he would be used to it by now, but the tasked proved challenging. He slung it around his back. Cobalt flipped the muhr over. He forced the arrow down with his foot, it crunched under his boot, the body was stiff as a plank. ¡°I wonder if he bleeds red, I¡¯ve heard stories¡± Cobalt stated, he unsheathed his sword, and struck him once more. This time his final blow landed between his eyes. Blood splattered from the entry wound, it sprayed onto Cobalt¡¯s face. He could feel the warmth sprinkle on his skin. He inhaled deeply, he enjoyed the scent of bloodspill, it was like fresh linen to him. He wiped his blade on the Muhr''s chest. He placed his sword back in its sheath. He looked at the muhr. Its face had turned pale blue, the hair that adorned his body was frozen still. Cobalt¡¯s face twisted in disgust, he figured he was doing society a favor by eliminating such beast from the realm. He kicked the body out into the water, it floated for a while until the river swallowed him whole. ¡°I guess the stories are just that¡± he chuckled. He stepped back onto dry land, his face sprinkled with droplets the color of sangria. Clay took a step back, he didn¡¯t have the same taste for violence. King - 1 Atop the Capital, the largest city of Luition, stood the King¡¯s palace. Glorious in stature, a symbol of nobility and elegance and built on the backs of millions of Dreys. Each brick of limestone laid painted the royal residence. It towered over the Capital, no other structure could match its splendor. The castle was erected so high, the common folk believed the King dined with the Gods. Laughter drifted from the top floor windows. The King¡¯s table stretched across the conference hall. The table was full of the ripest fruits exploding with flavor, and summer wines rich and savory. The wealthiest lords and ladies graced a seat at the table. Mainly elves, and humans, but there sat one Drey, the master of slavers. ¡°My King, you haven¡¯t aged a day, you wear ruling well,¡± an elf said. His protruding stomach bounced as he spoke. The King ruled over Luition for two decades, but he looked as young as the day of his coronation. His olive skin remained wrinkle-free, he appeared to be still in his prime years. ¡°Thank you, but we¡¯re not here to talk about myself. We have far more important matters to discuss.¡± The King stood, his chair scuffed against the polished floors. He sauntered around the table. The room swelled with silence. ¡°We have to bolster our Crimson Guard force, we need to-¡± the King hesitated, ensuring he used the right choice of words. ¡°Calm the people. In order to maintain peace.¡± the King nodded, he shifted his eye contact between his guests. ¡°I will need more of a contribution to do so,¡± the King smiled. He had a natural charisma with his words. His defined jawline and frosty blue eyes commanded the room. He knew anybody could be persuaded to do anything, they just needed the right amount of encouragement, with either honey or vinegar. One of the high lords scoffed, ¡°we give you enough damn gold as it is¡±, the old gentleman took a swig from his goblet, his bushy grey mustache concealed his upper lip. ¡°Yes, Lord Fairmount? Do you have an opinion you would like to share?¡± the King questioned, he maintained his friendly aristocratic composure. The other guests sank in their chairs. ¡°Every time I turn around you have your hand out, claiming my gold is for the good of the realm.¡± he finished off his wine, his drinking hand was full of gold rings. Lord Fairmount was the longest reigning Lord over his city. He had seen rulers come and go before King Cerilium. The previous kings never commanded so much as a penny from him, but the Just King was not like the others. ¡°And I give you plenty of benefits in return¡± the King pointed out. He slowly walked closer to the High Lord. King Cerilium knew his methods provided longevity for the realm, and his vision wasn¡¯t just a hunch. For him this was a second chance, and if this was going to work everyone needed to work together to achieve this goal, both wealthy and impoverished alike. The tale has been stolen; if detected on Amazon, report the violation. A silence persisted between their words. They locked eyes, he could see fury fuming behind Lord Fairmount¡¯s eyes. He gradually became more disgruntled, he tapped his fingers on his goblet. ¡°Ask the common folk, I¡¯ve paid my fair share,¡± Lord Fairmount snapped, veins popped out of his neck, his forehead wrinkled as his skin flooded red. The King smiled, completely unphased by his temperment. A small chuckled escaped his lips. This wasn¡¯t the king¡¯s time dealing with difficulty, he found it comical when humans defied him. ¡°Oh but I do, I ask more of them than any of you in this room, but this is an ambitious expenditure. I came to you all because you are my closest friends, so naturally,¡± the king looked around making eye contact with his other guests, ¡°I turned to you first.¡± the king assured, his voice gentle and warm. ¡°Pay for it yourself if it¡¯s so damn important.¡± he shouted, he slammed his fist on the table, then bolted from his seat marching towards the doorway. His jewelry clinked with every harsh step towards the exit. The king sighed, ¡°I was hoping we could resolve this peacefully¡± he shouted, he then nodded at his Crimson Guards. ¡°Sir Fairmount, Lord of Westercrest, it¡¯s been a long journey for you, hasn¡¯t it? You¡¯ve traveled all this way,¡± the king asserted, he crossed his arms behind his back. The king strolled towards the exit. Two of the Crimson Guards blocked Lord Fairmount¡¯s path. He turned around to leave through the separate exit, but another two surrounded him from behind. ¡°Let me pass¡± he commanded. Fear lodged in his throat. He found himself trapped. He looked for an escape, but none stood out to him, other than the windows. ¡°I imagine it¡¯s difficult for you, ruling in your old age,¡± the king suggested, he stood in front of Lord Fairmount, his Guardsmen between them. ¡°Let me take that burden off of you and your family.¡± the king pleaded, his voice sincere despite the horrors coming next. One of the Crimson Guards punched Lord Fairmount in his abdomen, the blow brought him to his knees. He covered his stomach, an intense cough left his throat. For the first time in his life, Lord Fairmount was powerless. The guards cleared space for the King, he leaned down while he kept his eyes fixed on him. ¡°We want the same things, I think you need some time away, a vacation maybe?¡± the king inquired, Lord Fairmount lifted his head and nodded in agreement. The king stood, an smile came across his face. ¡°Take him some place where he came have some alone time, the gods know rulers don¡¯t get enough of it¡± he said, he smiled at Lord Fairmount as they carried him off to the dungeons. The High Lord struggled, but he lost. The king turned his attention to his other guests. He was met with pure fear in their expressions. He smiled, it gave him a small pleasure seeing the panic on their faces. It meant their thoughts were untainted by any seed of rebellion. The feeling gave him comfort. ¡°Well, if there are no other opinions we are all in agreement, yes?¡± the room nodded in unison. No one dared spoke a word against the king. ¡°Great, now let¡¯s continue our discussion¡± he said, he sat in his chair. The quietness was stifling, like the king forced a pillow over their heads until they stopped resisting. He would do anything to maintain his version of serenity. His violence meant peace. Marie - 2 After escaping certain death, the group travelled to Elderburgh, a dainty town, on the outskirts of Brinebourne. They managed to blend in with relative ease. Though the town structures were stained gloomy and drab, it buzzed with energy. It was filled with peddlers, shopkeepers, and passers-by. ¡°How much for it?¡± Jalems dropped the relic on a shabby table. The trader¡¯s eyes widened, he carefully examined the artefact. He held it in his hands each way he turned it, the light changed the colors. The amphora absorbed light and thrust shards of fuscia and flamingo onto the ceiling. The Clerk¡¯s eyes widened, the relic colored the entire room. He motioned for Jalems to wait for a moment. The scrawny sales clerk stumbled to the back of his establishment. ¡°Hey, I¡¯m going to look around for a bit,¡± Marie said, her father acknowledged her request. She stepped out onto the busy street. The trader handed Jalems a hefty sack of silver, large enough he needed both hands to carry it. He grabbed a seat towards the back, and began counting. Jalems needed to ration their earnings if they were going to make it til their next job, which seemed far and few between. *** She stepped outside, a mule carrying a bail of hay almost ran her over. Smoke filled her lungs forcing her into a coughing spell. The place felt familiar but dread lingered like the pain in a sore muscle. She didn¡¯t want to stay any longer than necessary. Muffled screams caught her ear. She walked around back in between the dingy buildings. She saw two men dragging a young maiden by her coffee-colored hair. Marie became enraged, she clenched her fist at the sight. ¡°Hey¡± she shouted, the two thickset men turned around, they traced her body with their eyes. Marie¡¯s most beautiful feature was her long legs, though she encased them in mute-colored stretch pants. ¡°You want to join the party sweetheart?¡± one of them stepped closer to her. He brandished a knife from its sheath. Ensure your favorite authors get the support they deserve. Read this novel on Royal Road. ¡°Let her go, I¡¯m warning you¡± she demanded. The young lady kept kicking trying to free herself. The man restraining her struck her face, she let out a wordless cry. Marie took a step toward the girl, but the man blocked her path. ¡°I¡¯ve never had a blonde before, I wonder what you taste like¡± he licked his lips. Marie balled her fist. Her hands ignited into two flames. The man was taken aback. ¡°I said let. Her. Go.¡± Marie yelled. Her face was hot, her heartbeat was throbbing so intensely she could feel it in her head. Adrenaline rushed through her like the sun pouring heat onto the earth. Her rage stirred quickly even she couldn¡¯t keep up with it. Before he could move she hurled her fist across his face, burning his skin on impact. He fell to the ground helpless, one strike did the trick, but Marie persisted. While she struck him, all she could think about was how helpless that girl felt against them. How badly they were going to harm her if Marie hadn¡¯t heard her cries. How terrifying it must have been, knowing they had the power to end her life in more ways than one. How could they think of doing such a thing. Who gave them the right to force her against her own will. These thoughts fueled her fists, after a while anger took control, and Marie slipped into autopilot. The other man released the young maiden, once he saw Marie in action. She kept punching the man, pummeling his face into the ground, until White stopped her. ¡°Marie¡± White gasped, she dropped her basket to the ground, the fruits sprawled out on the gravel. White grabbed her fighting arm. Marie snapped back from her rage. Gale watched from a safe distance. ¡°Can¡¯t you see he¡¯s helpless?¡± White pointed out. Marie looked at him. She had brought such a husky man to his knees, he trembled beneath her screaming in agony. Half his face was pink as ham. The friction burn exposed his skin to the elements. She could see the muscles of his jawbone, along with his rotting teeth. She couldn''t believe she caused it. Horror painted on her face, she let him go. He staggered to his feet barely clinging to life. Her fists returned to soft fingers. She observed her hands, blood-stained and bright cherry red from contact. Shame overwhelmed her. This wasn¡¯t the first time something like this had happened. As her scope of empathy increased, it blinded her from the amount of violence she was capable of. Marie didn¡¯t know her own strength, it excited her, but other times she hated herself for it. A wetness fell from under her nose. She grazed her upper lip. A cold stream of blood trickled down. Her body suddenly weighed heavily on her, she couldn¡¯t lift herself to stand. Marie - 3 The night had fallen upon them, they found shelter with Jalems¡¯ old acquaintance, MacArthur. The two first met right after Jalems ended his service with the brute, Lord Fairmount. One storm-ridden night, where the sky was dark as onyx and lighting was the only illumination in the sky. MacArthur¡¯s silver pocket watch, a family heirloom, passed down from his great grandfather was stolen. Skilled thieves had swiped it in the night, along with the life of his son trying to defend it. He found his son¡¯s body the next morning, the guilt devastated him. How could he have slept peacefully while he son laid bleeding out. All to protect a family history he¡¯ll never inherit. His future was gone. Jalems ran into him that same day, and when he learned of Macarthur¡¯s story, he made it his personal goal to find the cowards who committed such a heinous crime. Through days of hiding behind walls and spying on meetings in dark alleys. Jalems managed to find the low lifes and retrieved the item. Though he was forced to use less than honorable methods. MacArthur was his first client. The group huddled around a cozy fire in the middle of the makeshift home. Macarthur¡¯s residence reeked of animal dung and wet soil, Tek¡¯mer couldn¡¯t stand the stench, he kept dry heaving randomly. The others were grateful they had a place to lay their heads, though tonight sleep evaded them. Jalems sharpened Iris, he rested her on his lap. The charcoal steel stretched past both his knees. His movements were slow but thorough. He tended to Iris like she was wounded, a thousand lines stacked on top of one another, forged his beloved sword. Marie watched him as he stroked it. She could see the ripples folded within the steel, it looked like they were moving, the harder she stared at it. Though Marie didn¡¯t fight with weapons, she found a certain beauty in the blade. ¡°Why did you name it Iris?¡± Marie asked, Jalems stopped mid-stroke, he looked up at her. He placed the whetstone to the side, then he exhaled. Although he wasn¡¯t sure how to talk about it, without his feelings leaking out of him. He knew starting was the most important. ¡°While I served Lord Fairmount, as head of his army, I went through quite a few swords¡± he said, he chuckled at the thought. Marie leaned closer to him, she could tell when he was getting into a good story, Jalems rarely spoke about his past with her. ¡°On my born day I walked into my chambers, and a large wooden box laid on my bed. I figured it was a mistake until I noticed a small note sitting on top of it.The handwriting I recognized right away, so I ripped the box open, and there she was. The most beautiful sword I ever laid eyes on. Well balanced, slim but sharp. I stared so long at it I didn¡¯t hear her footsteps behind me. I turned around when I heard her soft voice say so what do you think?¡± ¡°Aww,¡± Marie said, she covered her mouth. She wondered why he never talked about her, she sounded like she was a kind woman. ¡°Yes, at first I named it Deathbringer, she thought it sounded too vain¡± he said. Marie chuckled,¡°Seriously dad, Deathbringer?¡± she repeated, emphasizing the pretentious name. Unauthorized content usage: if you discover this narrative on Amazon, report the violation. ¡°Hey, I was young once, let me live¡± he said, a smile wrinkled his face. ¡°So I changed it to Iris,¡± he continued. ¡°Why Iris¡± she asked, his expression suddenly saddened, as if a weight pulled his face downward. Marie sensed the change. ¡°It was a way to honor her, she liked it.¡± he said, his lips began quivering. Marie froze, she leaned closer to him. It hurt Marie to see her father like this. Before she could comfort him he sheathed his sword and stood to his feet. ¡°Well, I¡¯m going to fetch us some water, we¡¯ll need it come sunrise¡± Jalems announced, a sniffle left his nose. Marie sat on her knees, she sucked her teeth as she watched him leave. A cool draft snuck in after his departure. ¡°Tek¡¯mer, where are you from?¡± White inquired, her eyes full of bounce and jubilance. He hesitated, ¡°I¡¯m from Westercrest,¡± he said unenthused. He tied his hair into a ponytail it fell past his shoulders. ¡°What¡¯s it like there?¡± she followed up, she fired questions back to back, barely giving him time to catch his breath. ¡°It has... its own type of beauty,¡± he said, his bright blonde straight hair glittered in the fire. He sat upright, a smirk hopped on his face, ¡°It has everything really, beautiful weather it¡¯s much warmer there. Every house looks like a smaller version of the King¡¯s palace. When I was a kid we would go down to the center city. A whimsical place, full of exotic foods and liveliness and towers as tall as the sky, I always loved going. My father would let us get this treat, I forgot the name, but it was delicious. It was like eating a candy-flavored cloud. I can taste it now, how melts in your mouth but the flavor floats on your tongue.¡± he said, reminscing brought joy to him, if only for a moment. His smile faded as thoughts of his family came to him. Tek¡¯mer realized how much he missed them. Their elaborate family dinners and outings with the upper echelon of Westercrest. These distant memories, he was slowly forgetting. ¡°Wow, It sounds like a great place, why did you leave?¡± she asked. Tek¡¯mer sighed,¡°Because they didn¡¯t appreciate me ¡± he said slyly. White chuckled, she could sense his abrasiveness was merely a shell of his true persona. He was angry with his decision to leave. He knew his mother and siblings would forgive him. However, his father¡¯s opinion determined his fate, and he wasn¡¯t changing his mind any time soon. ¡°Have you remembered anything else?¡± Gale asked, she turned towards White. Marie rolled her eyes at Gale, she wondered how she traveled with them for seven years and still had her accent, she never spoke her native tongue around them. ¡°No, not much I¡¯m afraid¡± she responded, her head lowered. All she could think of was the moment before the others were almost killed. Where did she go, and how time had stood still. Did she travel back in time or forward. Maybe there was still hope for her family, or was it already too late. Her mind swirled with possibilities. ¡°You must have remembered something, I saw the look in your eyes, you were different. What are you?¡± Marie stood, commanding the room. ¡°I wanna know how did you do that?¡± Marie fumed, ¡°how did you save us back there?¡± she stated, she balled her fist demanding answers. White looked at Marie, for a time neither of them spoke a word. White exhaled deeply, ¡°I-I don¡¯t know, I just felt a rush of energy come over me, I knew I had to do something¡± White fumbled for the right words. ¡°Believe me if there¡¯s anyone who wants to remember anything about me, it¡¯s me¡± White stated. A hush fell over the room, her words spoke the truth. Marie walked over to White, with slow thoughtful steps. Their eyes locked, the only sound in the small space was the thud of Marie¡¯s boots. Marie muscles tensed, her fist were clenched. White remained still, seated on her knees, unmoved by Marie¡¯s sudden movements. Tension brewed between them, everyone could feel it. Marie sat right in front of White, ¡°Teach me¡± she looked at White with intensity. White reciprocated her gaze, she nodded in agreement. Marie - 4 Jalems was deep into the woods. The stars scattered the dark night like fireworks. Jalems rarely had the chance to appreciate such beauty. He spent most of his time keeping himself and Marie alive. He took in the sight, enjoying the peace of mind. He pressed on and with each step, he could feel his bones hitting the earth. Though he didn¡¯t look his age, he felt like it. The night winds sliced through him, his cloak billowed behind, it was difficult to stay focused. He reached his destination. The sound of flowing water comforted him. He dropped to his knees, but before he touched the stream, his reflection startled him. He hadn¡¯t seen his appearance in a few years now. He touched his facial hair, his once thick black beard was now silver with a few streaks of black in it. His hairline had retreated out of his sight. He knew he felt more of a breeze atop his head, but to see it looking back at him left him speechless. His jowls were sagging, all this time in his mind he was still young, but his reflection told him otherwise. He cleared his throat focusing his attention. He filled his palms with the river and thrust it onto his face. The icy chill relieved him from grogginess. He heard noises behind him, his muscles tensed. He grabbed onto Iris¡¯ hilt. A bird flew off into the sky, the crow flapped its wings fervently. He watched it as it moved, envy materialized while he looked at the bird take off. He imagined the freedom it must have, with the wind under its belly. The sight disarmed him. A sigh of relief escaped his throat. He continued to fill the pale to capacity. He heard another sound again, but this time it was too late. A deep slumber fell over their hut, except for White. She twisted and turned in her sleep. Her dreams were filled with horrible images of death, fire, and ruin. A dark cloud hovered over her as she ran for her life. Soldiers dressed in polished crimson armor galloped behind her. Their horses right on her heels. Her heart was racing, sweat trickled down her forehead. She ran so hard she felt her lungs were about to burst from her chest. While she ran, she could see leaves forming on tree branches, the fog lifted from the sky. A breeze brushed against her, she turned around the Crimson Guards were gone. Only lush greenery nd colorful flowers filled that space. She then saw a man standing at the edge of the prairie. She walked closer to him, he turned around and placed a rose in her hand. Her cheeks flushed pink, he was handsome with kind features like royalty almost. His eyes a crisp blue, soft and warm. He was the only part of her dream that made her feel safe. Together, the two of them gallivanted through an open field. They stopped and exchanged glances. He tucked a fly away behind her ear. His hands were soft as a cloud. His muscular arms swathed her tiny waist. Her hands found their way to his broad-shouldered chest. He cupped her fingers into his palm and gave the back of her hand a gentle peck. A ring appeared on her left hand. Two hands pushed Jalems¡¯ downward, submerging him into the river. Their strong arms felt firm and stiff on his chest. He could see an outline of the person attacking him, but couldn¡¯t make out a face. He felt his air supply running low, his head started feeling lighter, his vision became blurry. He wondered was this what it feels like to die, it was calm but terrifying. It felt as if the remaining breath was leaking out of him like a pipe burst. His efforts seemed futile, and wasted on fighting, until Marie came to his mind. What would she do without him, he had to survive not for himself but for her. He reached for Iris, but the stranger¡¯s knee rested on her hilt. He struggled, his hands searched for anything he could use to defend himself, but all he felt was the water running between his fingers. An image of a knife popped into his head, he felt for the small weapon he kept hidden. He unsheathed a curved dagger and plunged it into the assailant¡¯s abdomen. Their hands lifted from him. Jalems raised himself above the water, his lungs grasped for air. The attacker adorned himself in all black, including his face. The man fell to his hands and knees and covered his stomach wound, streaks of red colored his hand. Jalems felt his waist for Iris, but she was missing. He had lost track of both weapons, he was so fixated on breathing, his mind blocked out everything else. He searched the ground, dirt buried into his fingernails in the process. He finally located the dagger, but so did the assassin. Ensure your favorite authors get the support they deserve. Read this novel on Royal Road. They both looked at the weapon and raced for its pommel. Jalems had it within his grasp. His fingertips right on the edge, but then the masked man lunged for it. His hands pushed it just out of reach. The dagger slid under a bus, no telling how deep it went. They both staggered to their feet, weakened but their will unshaken. Jalems felt weak, his soaked cloak weighed him down even more. Droplets of water trickled down his face, though they frozen before they hit the ground. Jalems was too old for this, he needed to end this now. He decided to handle him old fashioned, with blood and knuckles. They balled their fists and exchanged blows. Jalems hit him with a strong hook. It threw his opponent off balance. When it seemed he had the upper hand, the assassin landed a punch in his gut. The blow forced a cough from Jalems¡¯ stomach. He then tackled Jalems to the ground. He wrapped his rugged hands around Jalems¡¯ throat. He could feel the life slipping from him. Her fantasy soon turned back into a nightmare. The prairie ignited into a roaring fire. She was surrounded within seconds. From the distance she saw her family, a hoard of Crimson Guards closed in on them. The flames prevented her from reaching them. She watched in horror as they fought against them, but there were far too many guards for the three of them to take on. Her father, mother, and sister were taken into royal custody, metal collars placed on them. Somehow the chains subdued their power. Their trial took place before the entire town to see. The crowd was as wide as the ocean, spectators chanted kill all Entie, Their voices formed one deafening roar. Their fists raged like torches, the people were on the verge of rioting. Pandemonium was unfolding before her eyes. She pushed through the crowd, forcing her body through whatever tiny openings she could find. She thought if she could just get there in time then maybe she could stop this madness. White spotted her little sister, her prepubescent body on trial looked ridiculous. The rope was too big for her, it looked more like a necklace, but the mob carried on. A Crimson Guard walked over to her. White was hopeful he would let her go, what sense does it make to hang a little girl. Instead, the man tightened the noose ensuring she wouldn¡¯t slip through it during the drop. Her eyes widened in disbelief. ¡°Magic has descended the world into chaos we must kill all the Entie, in order to bring peace¡± a voice proclaimed, the crowd roared in agreement. She couldn¡¯t recall the name of the one who spoke, but his voice felt vaguely familiar. The softness in his tone gave her comfort despite the fact he was the one inciting chaos. In one quick pull of a lever, the wooden surface dropped beneath them. Their feet dangled as the rope strangled them. Their bodies flailed like fish out of water. She watched as their eyes filled with blood. The snap of their necks echoed in her ears. The sound haunted her, it was engraved in her like the tattoo on her wrist. Jalems balled his fist, he swung at his attacker knocking them off of him. The man grabbed his side, letting a groan slip from his lips. Jalems took advantage of his weakness. He knocked the man onto his back and pummeled him, until he subdued the assailant. Jalems ripped off their mask, ¡°Who are you?¡± he shouted. He didn¡¯t recognize his face. The man was young, no older than thirty, his eyes shaped like almonds. ¡°I¡¯m nobody, but you¡¯re dead,¡± he grumbled, ¡°I may not be the one to do it, but your days are numbered. For you and that pretty little girl of yours¡± he said, At the mention of Marie, Jalems grit his teeth and struck him again. His fist bashed in the man¡¯s cheek. Jalems felt his knuckles crush his face. The pain felt powerful. The assassin groaned in agony, a cough forced its way from him chest. He slowly turned his gaze back at Jalems. A sick smile appeared on his face. The attacker¡¯s mouth had turned red. Blood oozed from his teeth. A small light bounced off the man¡¯s chest. On his tunic laid a broach with a crescent moon symbol inside a circle. Jalems¡¯ eyes widened, this was no ordinary bounty on him, important people wanted him dead. ¡°Who sent you?¡± he growled, his breath steamed with his words. The attacker laughed at him. He spat a mouthful of blood in his face. Jalems clenched his jaw, anger fueled him. He grabbed his face with both hands and slammed his head into the ground repeatedly. Until he no longer moved. Red tears slid down the assailant¡¯s cheeks. Jalems stumbled to his feet, he spotted Iris, her scabbard blended with a nearby oak tree. He stumbled over to her, unsheathed the blade, and thrust her into the man¡¯s stomach. Iris bit into the ground piercing his body with ease. Jalems breathed heavily, exhaustion forced him to his knees. White - 1 White woke up from her sleep, her chest heaved up and down, she looked around the hut panicking. Gale slowly woke up, ¡°What¡¯s wrong?¡± Gale asked, White, shook her head ¡°I had the most horrible dream¡± she rubbed her temples. Gale gently placed her tiny hand on White¡¯s shoulder. The contact relaxed her. ¡°What was the dream?¡± she asked, ¡°it was awful he killed them all, even my little sister. She was only nine.¡± she muttered. ¡°I¡¯m sorry to hear that, I pray that was only a dream,¡± Gale mumbled. ¡°But it wasn¡¯t¡± White muttered. ¡°It was a memory.¡± she brought her knees to her chest, she stared deeply into the fire. Their voices woke Marie, but she stayed still pretending she was asleep. Stolen from its original source, this story is not meant to be on Amazon; report any sightings. ¡°I had a sister¡± Gale mentioned. ¡°They killed her¡± White¡¯s eyes widened, she had never heard Gale speak so much. Marie overheard them talking about their families. She wanted a sister, but life stole that option from her. She bit her lip forcing her tears back. Envy coiled in her, she found herself envious of their small talk, completing neglecting the trauma they endured. ¡°She was so hard-headed, she never listened, but that was the sister I got¡± she said, she didn¡¯t allow herself to feel anything usually, but the smallest smile jumped on her face. It left as quickly as it came. White listened attentively. Peace fell over them. Jalems burst through the door and slammed it shut behind him. Everyone woke, frightened by the noise. Before he could say anything he folded over his chest heaved with every breath. ¡°We need to go, now¡± he commanded. ¡°Why what¡¯s going on?¡± Marie asked. There was a knock at the door. Their eyes fell upon it. Marie - 4 The fist knocked again. The noise pounded softly and with a slight pause in between them. As if it was a warning before something else. The air stiffened. They encountered countless times like this before, but somehow this time felt different. White walked over to open the door, Jalems stepped in front of her. ¡°What do you think you¡¯re doing?¡± he said in a low voice, but she could feel his fury. She noticed blood splattered on his face, she took a step back. ¡°I¡¯m opening the door, clearly they need help.¡± White asserted, she regained her composure. Marie slowly walked closer to her father, ensuring her footsteps did not attract too much noise. She had never seen her father so wild-eyed and panicked, something was wrong. ¡°Father what happened to you?¡± Marie asked, once she was close enough she noticed his face. It looked like messy red paint, she was disgusted and horrified. She grabbed a piece of fabric, and patted it over his face. Before she could finished, he stopped her wrist. Marie found herself always taking care of her father, be it his old age that worried her, among many things. He didn¡¯t make it easy for her. He had a tendency to go off, then return in worse shape than he left. She feared one day he wouldn¡¯t come back. A sight left his lips. There was no way he could tell his daughter that because of his actions, that both of them were in serious trouble. The guilt was too much to handle. His one job was to keep her safe, how could he bring himself to admit he put her in danger. He released her wrist, she lowered her hand she could tell something was wrong. He wouldn¡¯t make eye contact with her, whenever he didn¡¯t want to tell her something he could never bring himself to look her in the face. ¡°I was attacked down by the river, but I¡¯m fine, it¡¯s not my blood,¡± Jalems said wanting to control the situation. Marie covered her mouth. ¡°By who?¡± she asked, fear filled her words. ¡°I don¡¯t know, I didn¡¯t recognize them. Stop with the questions so I can think¡± Jalems shouted. His voice echoed in the small space, no one said a word. The silence only heightened the intense situation. Marie feared there were more Crimson Guards, her muscles tense, but then she thought, they would have already burst through the door. Maybe it was another attacker sent to finish the job. If these people were after her father, were they after her and everyone else as well. Questions flooded her mind. She buried her knees into the solid floor. Fear hovered over her like rain clouds. ¡°I mean no harm, I¡¯m here to help¡± an unknown voice cajoled from behind the door. ¡°We should open it¡± Tek¡¯mer advised. He didn¡¯t feel they were in any immediate danger. He would usually hear that awful noise cut through his pointy ears, but in this moment he only heard silence. If you spot this narrative on Amazon, know that it has been stolen. Report the violation. White snuck past Jalems and swung the door open, her eyes met with Garett¡¯s. When Garett looked at White, he became speechless, he grasped for words. ¡°Hello, are you lost?¡± she said. They locked eyes, he didn¡¯t know what to think of her. ¡°Um yes, I mean no, I¡¯m looking for I think... you¡± Garett fumbled. Confusion painted across her face. ¡°You must be cold come in¡± she let him pass. He cleared his throat as he stepped through the doorway. ¡°When I heard a white-haired petite little lady had slain a dozen Crimson Guards, I had to find her,¡± Garett said, he removed his gloves. He was intrigued, she was thin, her hair fell to the floor. Something about her looked mythical like she was a walking piece of long lost history. He eyed her once more. Garett the observed their shared space. A small fire illuminated the room, their shadows were tall black giants against the walls. The floor was dirt and hardened soil, the smell was retched. He felt everyone eyeing him, even his tiniest movements. ¡°I did not slay anyone, I heard they had turned against one another¡± White said. She stared at Garett intensely. ¡°Smart, that would work if there wasn¡¯t an eye witness who saw what you did, and if that same eye witness wasn¡¯t a Crimson Guard. Now the King will be looking for you,¡± he warned. Her muscles tensed, she knew he was right, she wouldn¡¯t be able to handle an entire army. His attention turned to Marie standing close by, they all continued staring at him unsure of his next move. ¡°And tales of a fire priestess have not been far from my ears¡± he said, Marie¡¯s cheeks turned soft pink. She rubbed her elbow awkwardly, for some reason when he looked at her she became nervous. As Garett talked his dimples sank into his cheeks. He wore his hair shorn on the sides and back, but long up top. His dark loose curls complimented those emerald green eyes. Marie had never felt this fluttering in her stomach before. Her heartbeat quickened slightly in his presence. He scanned the room, ¡°You all have made names for yourself for better,¡± he saw Gale off to the side, ¡°or for worse¡± he stated sorrow hid behind his eyes. ¡°What do you want?¡± Jalems commanded, his jaw clenched when he spoke. ¡°I¡¯m a part of a movement, to overthrow the king, he¡¯s ruled long enough,¡± Garett argued, his muscles flexed under his pale tunic, as he balled his fists. ¡°Yea, right, good luck with that¡± Tek¡¯mer scoffed. Garett shifted his eyes to Tek¡¯mer. ¡°Tell me, what brings a wealthy elf such as yourself, to the poorest side of the realm?¡± he retorted. Tek¡¯mer darted eyes at Garett. ¡°What makes you think I¡¯m wealthy?¡± Tek¡¯mer smirked, he began reading, ignoring Garett¡¯s presence. ¡°Please, I¡¯ve never met a poor elf in my life,¡± Garett jeered. Jalem and Marie both looked at Tek¡¯mer, he was obviously uncomfortable. She thought about how much she actually knew about Tek¡¯mer, he traveled with them for a couple years now. He always knew so much about the items they were confiscating, but she knew next to nothing about him. They shared countless nights where sleep was their supper, she could not help but wonder why anyone would choose this life. ¡°Perhaps you should travel more¡± Tek¡¯mer jested, he licked his fingertip and flipped onto the next page. ¡°I plan on it, but not by running from my problems¡± Garett retorted. White - 2 White stared longingly into the fire, their voices faded. She became lost in the crackling flames. Her mind drifted off to her family. She remembered them so vividly. Her sister¡¯s sweet innocent laugh and always stealing her jewelry. Her mother¡¯s delicious beef stew sprinkled with herbs and spices. Her father¡¯s bear hugs made her feel like there was no safer place to be. The memories were too much to carry, a part of her wished she never remembered, but it was all she had left of them. White was hypnotized watching her memories on replay. Gale placed her moist hand on White¡¯s bare shoulder yanking her from her trance. White was startled, ¡°I¡¯m sorry¡± Gale apologized. She sat down next to White. ¡°Oh no you¡¯re fine I was just in deep thought,¡± she responded. ¡°About what?¡± White was silent for a moment, ¡°Life¡±. Garett pulled Jalems to the side, ¡°I can¡¯t put her life in danger, which is exactly what your little cause is all about.¡± Jalems said, still keeping his voice low. ¡°I know you think we¡¯re just a bunch of soldiers, but it¡¯s much more than that.¡± he persisted, Jalems crossed his arms. Unauthorized use: this story is on Amazon without permission from the author. Report any sightings. ¡°There is a bounty on both your heads,¡± he whispered. Though Jalems didn¡¯t trust easily, after his recent brush with death, he knew he was telling the truth. ¡°Okay yes we do fight, a lot and quite often, but only when we have to,¡± Jalems remained unconvinced, anything that sounded too good to be true usually was. ¡°Look, don¡¯t join our cause for me,¡± Garett looked at Marie, then back at Jalems. ¡°Do it for her, we can house you, feed you, as long as we can count on you.¡± Garett¡¯s voice echoed in Jalem¡¯s ears. Jalems had a similar offer, during his prime years he was a world-renown swordsman. He competed in the king¡¯s tournament, when King Cerilium first won the crown. He placed third. Lord Fairmount hired him on the spot that day. He was his personal Crimson Guard. At first it was perfect, he protected his lord from assassins and other dangers. He attended royal galas with his Lord dressed in the finest armor any man could forge. He even lived in the palace of the second largest city in the entire realm. His lord soon named him, the Top Lieutenant of his army. He was officially a high-ranking member of society. The arrangement was mutually beneficial. Everything worked out fine for both sides, until Jalems got married. Jalems¡¯ wife was truly beautiful, her hair was bright as beaten gold, her eyes a perfect shade of honey. His lordship took notice. Lord Fairmount demanded more unreasonable requests from him, commands challenging Jalems personal code of conduct. One day Jalems refused his orders, but today was a different time and different circumstances. Jalems agreed, Garett embraced him. ¡°We¡¯re a half day¡¯s ride away from home, it¡¯s best we leave now while the darkness covers us.¡± Cobolt - 2 ¡°Next¡± Cobalt shouted. He leaned back into his chair, a yawn left his mouth. He was seated in the Prince¡¯s throne hall. An immaculate conference room adorned with oil paintings of previous rulers, refinded golden ornaments, and a chandelier big as a horse swayed softly over the room. A plush wine carpet laid over the stone floor. The decor reminded all who entered, that he was royalty, as did the dozen Crimson Guards surrounding the room like pillars. A thin, scrawny man stood before him. His sleeveless tunic a size to big for him, his bone strucutre poked through his skin. The man appeared as if he hadn¡¯t eaten in days, his arms no big than twigs. An odor of wood and smoke followed him as he stepped closer to Cobalt. One of his duties as the Prince was to tend to the needs of the commoners, his father relied on this information. Although he didn¡¯t possess his father¡¯s charm, his style was productive in other forms. A line of citizens spilled out into the hallways of the palace. ¡°Your Grace,¡± he said as he knelt, he lifted his face. Cobalt sat high on his throne, steps cascading down like a waterfall. The man felt terrified, but he knew he had to be here. Only the Prince had the answers he sought. ¡°My horses are dying, there¡¯s something in the soil. I don¡¯t know what it is, but something¡¯s not right. You see when we lost the first one, we didn¡¯t think much of it, but now they¡¯re dropping off the face of the earth.¡± the man said, his voice thick with worry. ¡°How many horses did you start with?¡± Cobalt asked. He wondered if this was the return of the Terra Firma, the great grass reaper that spread ages ago killing half of all soil life. The spread occurred within a fortnight. Thousands died, humans, animals, Muhrs and Dreys alike. If one didn¡¯t die from famine, it was from looters coming to take what they had. The realm spun into chaos, everyman for himself. It wasn¡¯t until his father came, that the land¡¯s vegetation improved. Many called him the savior. He was named King shortly after. ¡°Fifty, your Grace¡± he said quickly. ¡°And how many do you have now?¡± Cobalt asked, narrowing his eyes. If this was the return, he would have the chance to make a name for himself, like his father. He rubbed his hands together, eager for a number. ¡°Fourty-seven¡± he said, his voice was shaking, the man began crying. ¡°I lost Centara, she was my favorite, she had so much life ahead of her¡±. Cobalt tapped the arm rest of the chair. The man¡¯s sobs echoed in the room, no one shared his sadness. It was uncomfortable to watch him. Cobalt yawned over his cries. ¡°Fourty-seven you say?¡± he chuckled slightly. ¡°Horses die all the time, have them buried and be on your way about it, good day¡± he said, he dismissed the small man. Every story wore his patience thinner. Cobalt clenched his jaw hiding his contempt. ¡°But I-I wasn¡¯t done talking-¡± his soft voice contested, Did you know this story is from Royal Road? Read the official version for free and support the author. ¡°You¡¯re done talking when I say you¡¯re done. You¡¯re boring me with your little problem you could fix on your own.¡± Cobalt leaned forward his face full of rage. ¡°Now leave, before I change my mind and have you hanged¡±. The man scurried from his presence, his knees buckling as he ran. ¡°Next¡± Cobalt shouted. A sentry escorted the next one before Cobalt. A young lord entered, his ringmail armor clinked with his every step. He was tall and lean, with defined facial features. ¡°My Prince¡± he knelt, then lifted his head, ¡°I am Sir Erwin Bolbec, from Arrowmound , I was raised by my Grandfather Lord Bolbec. I have come before you on his behalf.¡± ¡°I know Sir Bolbec, he served on the Crimson Guard force of the King before my father, until his untimely death. I always wanted to know, what happened to your parents?¡± Cobalt asked, when he finished talking he rested the side of face on his knuckles. For Cobalt, the only way to keep boredom out, was feign interest. ¡°Yes, he has told me of the generosity the crown has bestowed upon him.¡± Erwin paused, a pain swelled in his chest, he could never talk about them within the feeling. It was as apart of him as his golden hair. ¡°they along with my little sister were killed in a fire¡± he said, he swallowed his tears before they could surface. ¡°I¡¯m sorry to hear that. I lost my mother on the birthing bed, nothing quite like grief, right? A wound that doesn¡¯t leave a scar, doesn¡¯t bleed, but never fully heals.¡± Cobalt said, a hint of sorrow sparkled in his eyes. ¡°But I¡¯m sure you didn¡¯t come here to talk about the dead, so I can I help you Sir Bolbec¡± he inquired. ¡°Yes, your Grace, today to ask for more of your Crimson Guards. I need help to maintain order on my grandfather¡¯s land. Last week we lost a handful of my slaves, I need your assistance in getting them back.¡± Cobalt leaned forward from his chair. ¡°When was this?¡± he asked curiously, the task intrigued him, he always found Dreys fascinating. Their tiny bodies and milk-white skin, he wondered which of the gods created them, and for what purpose. They seemed so useless. ¡°About a fortnight ago your Grace¡± he said, nervously. He cleared his throat. His blond hair shimmered in the light from the crystals hanging over him. ¡°How many did you lose?¡± Cobalt fired questions out like he shot arrows. ¡°Roughly twenty or so your Grace.¡± he lowered his head in shame. He waited for the Prince to yell at him like he did the man before him. He closed his eyes awaiting his verbal lashing. ¡°Do you have any idea, where they may have gone?¡± Cobalt asked. Erwin lifted his head slowly, his eyes widened. Maybe the stories he heard about the Prince weren¡¯t all true. Maybe he¡¯s not as monstrous as they say. The two of them appeared to be relatively the same age. ¡°No your Grace,¡± he said, a slight cough forced its way from his throat. ¡°But I¡¯ve heard of this town in the South it supposedly promises shelter for all. I assume they may have fled there.¡± A twisted grin jumped on Cobalt¡¯s face. The word fled, excited him. He enjoyed tracking people down it was another opportunity to play one of his favorite games. He leapt from his seat. ¡°I will assist you in this endeavor,¡± he grinned from ear to ear. ¡°Thank you, your Grace I am forever indebted to your kindness¡± he bowed nervously, then stood to his feet. His armor weighed on him as he moved. Cobalt rushed down the steps of his throne. Enthusiasm hurried his feet along. His fur bounced with his steps. He looked like he was already prepared for travel, dressed in all black, bound in a fitted royal doublet, long cape, and slick leather his prize sword at his hip. He gestured at the Crimson Guards. ¡°Looks like we¡¯ve got ourself a hunt,¡± he exclaimed, he was the only one excited in the entire room. Clay lowered his head. Cobalt rushed to his father¡¯s meeting. King - 2 The Crimson Guard who was held captive by the Rebels, finally reached the King¡¯s palace. His bare feet exposed and bloody, his face beaten and bruised, he was almost certain his ribs were broken. He trekked up the palace, every step more difficult than the last, at one point he was forced to use his elbows to pull him up the never-ending steps. Until he finally breached the entryway to the conference hall. ¡°My King, I bring news¡± he yelled, the man folded over trying to catch his breath. The entire room fell silent. The soldier interrupted an important small meeting. The room was full of the King¡¯s counselors, five influencers from various walks of life. They advised the King from areas of financing the crown to military warfare. These men guided the King through every decision both fair and cruel. All eyes stared at the bloody man. The King¡¯s posture remained regal with opulence. He sat on his throne, the velvet cushion made him feel like he was seated upon a cloud. When looked at the doorway, his face twisted at the sight of the guard. He covered his nose with a silk handkerchief. ¡°What news is so urgent you didn¡¯t have time to tend to your wounds?¡± the King inquired, he feigned genuine concern in his tone. The Crimson Guard wheezed vehemently, his breath jagged and uneven. ¡°My King, there is a magic user, she-¡± the King interjected. ¡°Leave us¡± he demanded, his counselors lifted from their seats quickly. They knew not to stir the King¡¯s wrath. One of his advisors in particular, was surprisingly elegant on his feet for such a large man. Rolls of fat bounced under his silk robes as he rushed to the doorway. Though his advisors were dismissed, the Crimson Guards maintained their positions. Cobalt entered as the leaders made their exit. ¡°Now as you were saying¡± he motioned for him to come closer. The soldier staggered forward, he fell to his hands and knees. ¡°My liege, there is a magic user among us,¡± he blurted out, his gaze faced the ground. ¡°Magic how can you be sure?¡± he refuted. The story has been stolen; if detected on Amazon, report the violation. ¡°She made the men of my troop shoot themselves.¡± he responded, he kept trying to regain his breath. The King¡¯s eyes widened, ¡°I saw her do it, she said something to them and then they pointed their muskets at their own heads.¡± the King leaned forward in his chair. He wondered if it was her. ¡°This girl, what did she look like?¡± he asked, he kept a cool composure, but secretly he thirsted for details. ¡°I-I don¡¯t know my lord I didn¡¯t see her face only her hair, it was white as snow¡±. The King stroked his chin, a few days of stubble had formed on his face. Was it possible she was still alive, but how could she this didn¡¯t make sense. In any case he needed to be sure it was her. ¡°Do you have proof? Lying to the King is a great offense.¡± the King warned in a friendly manner. He stood fixed his attire and casually stepped down from his throne. ¡°My liege I would never, I know the penalty for such a crime¡± he cried. The King paced back and forth for a moment, then he stopped in front of him. He examined the soldier, a puddle of blood formed around his toes. ¡°You need someone to look at those feet,¡± the King placed a hand on the man¡¯s shoulder. He needed this to be kept quiet. Surely no one would believe a lowly Crimson Guard, but still this was a delicate situation, he couldn¡¯t afford anyone to step out of line. The King nodded at his guards. ¡°Thank you my King¡± he pleaded. Two burly Crimson Guards grabbed the man by each arm. He struggled, but with little success. ¡°Wait my King, I¡¯m telling the truth¡± he shouted. He kicked and screamed trying to free himself. His eyes wide as plates, he couldn¡¯t believe the Just King he spent his youth serving would imprison him for speaking the truth. He stopped resisting. ¡°I know you are¡± he muttered, they locked eyes as the Crimson Guards carried him off. The King turned and walked back to his throne. ¡°Father¡± Cobalt interjected, ¡°Would you like for me to get the truth out of him¡± Cobalt bowed. ¡°Were you not listening?¡± he said, his words became a whip. Cobalt stepped back, he sensed his father was hiding something. He turned around and looked at his son. ¡°My dear boy, no, he¡¯s not lying I knew this day would come.¡± The King plopped down in his seat. Frustration flooded him, he rubbed his temples, ¡°I need you to find this girl with white hair, I don¡¯t care how you do it, bring her to me.¡± the King commanded, a sigh left him. ¡°Alive¡± he reminded him. ¡°Of course My King¡± an eerie smile formed on Cobalt¡¯s face.