《Extinction X Humankind》 Prologue The world as we once knew it now lies in ruins, with only ashes and remnants of sins remaining. How did our world descend into such chaos, you might ask? Well, it''s been this way for centuries, since the dawn of human civilization. Humans have always been adept at consuming other species and preying on the weak. Only those willing to sacrifice their souls and embrace corruption emerged as the ultimate victors in this ruthless game of survival. The tension between the haves and have-nots has always simmered beneath the surface. Society has become accustomed to this dog-eat-dog mentality, perpetuated by a system that values success, status, and power above all else. From a young age, both old and new generations are indoctrinated in schools to become diligent worker ants, driven by the relentless pursuit of success defined by material wealth and societal recognition. Money serves as the ultimate measure of worth, determining who is elevated to elite status and who is relegated to the fringes of society. Those who fail to thrive in this cutthroat environment often find solace in escapism, drowning their sorrows in drugs and other vices. They become the outcasts, scorned by family, friends, and society at large, forced to eke out a meager existence on the margins of civilization. Meanwhile, as the gap between the rich and poor widens to alarming proportions, the relentless pursuit of profit exacerbates environmental degradation and threatens the very fabric of existence. Natural resources dwindle, species vanish, and the specter of global warming looms ever larger. Yet, blinded by greed and driven by insatiable desires, humanity plunges headlong into self-destruction. Unlawfully taken from Royal Road, this story should be reported if seen on Amazon. The signs were there for all to see, but the powers that be chose to ignore them, prioritizing short-term gains over long-term sustainability. As overpopulation reaches critical levels and resources grow scarce, humanity turns on itself, unleashing weapons of mass destruction in a futile attempt to assert dominance. The cataclysmic events of the last world war leave the planet ravaged and desolate, its once-thriving ecosystems reduced to wastelands of death and despair. Billions perish in the firestorms, and those who survive are left to eke out a bleak existence in the aftermath. Yet, amidst the devastation, a few manage to cling to life. The so-called "crazy" doomsday preppers and the elite 1% retreat to their fortified bunkers and high-tech spaceships, leaving the rest of society to fend for themselves. Centuries pass, and the survivors huddle in the shadows of their fallen world, haunted by memories of a past they dare not speak of. Expeditions are launched in search of hope, but none return, leaving behind only monuments to the bravery of those who dared to venture beyond the safety of their underground sanctuary. Albert Einstein once said, "I do not believe that civilization will be wiped out in a war fought with the atomic bomb. Perhaps two-thirds of the people of the earth will be killed." How right he was. The survivors are left to pick up the pieces of a shattered world, forever scarred by the sins of their ancestors. Act - 1: The Reset This content has been unlawfully taken from Royal Road; report any instances of this story if found elsewhere. Act - 2: Amnesia Before I could react, a powerful kick sent me crashing against the steel wall, sending waves of agony through my body. Blood trickled down my nose from the impact, and a fist to the back of my head left me reeling. I struggled to regain my balance, but my oversized boots only hindered me further, causing me to collapse to the ground. As I lay there, dazed and in pain, someone pinned me down, immobilizing my arms behind my back. I screamed in agony as they pushed my arms upward, intensifying the pain coursing through me. The metallic scent of blood and mud filled my senses, as I grappled with the overwhelming pain. A familiar voice filled the air with taunts and laughter. "Well, well, well... if it isn''t Keinan and his little girlfriend Faith. Still lurking in this dump?" Ajax''s voice echoed with malice as he restrained me, asserting his dominance. Laughter, a sound all too familiar, echoed through the corridor, mingling with Faith''s angry and defiant voice. "Stop it, Ajax!" she exclaimed, stepping closer. "Leave him alone!" However, as Ajax pinned me down, Blaze swiftly intervened, blocking Faith''s path and preventing her from interfering. I was all too familiar with such situations; they had become a regular occurrence in my life, their pattern painfully predictable by now. Ajax loomed over me, asserting his dominance with a menacing stare. His expression flickered with jealousy and irritation as he focused on Faith. "What are you doing, huh? Why are you hanging around this silver-haired trash?" he sneered, yanking my hair and grinding my face into the muddy ground. I grunted in pain, struggling to breathe as blood continued to seep out of me. Faith''s voice rang out, filled with disgust and frustration. "You''re the real trash here! Remember when we all used to be close friends? Why do you keep tormenting him? When will it end?" "Shut up, Faith!" Ajax tightened his grip on the back of my head, his eyes flashing with anger. But Faith persisted, her words cutting through the chaos. "It is really sad to see this is who you''ve become? How can you keep doing this to him?" As Faith''s words hung in the air, a heavy silence descended upon us, filled with the weight of unanswered questions and unspoken regrets. The anguish in Faith''s voice was loud and clear, her concern evident as she look at my with empathic eye at my battered form. I said "It''s alright, Faith," I uttered, my voice hollow and devoid of emotion. "You should go home, we can talk later." Love this novel? Read it on Royal Road to ensure the author gets credit. Amidst the echoing chaos, I couldn''t ignore the frantic squeals of the rat in my grasp. Suddenly, Ajax stood up, snatching the rat from my hands in one swift motion. I tensed, ready to react, but before I could, I was shoved to the ground once more, Ajax''s taunts ringing in my ears. In a menacing whisper, Ajax threatened, "She''ll be mine one day, Keinan. Just you wait. And when that day comes, I''ll have my way with her." As he spoke, anger surged within me, but I knew retaliating would only escalate the situation. Swallowing my pride, I clenched my fists and bared my teeth in silent defiance. Ajax rose with a final sneer. "Let''s get out of here." "This tear-filled scene is about to make me cry," he mocked, his words dripping with disdain. "And before we grow old like this geezer," he added, gesturing towards me. "Oh, and thanks for the meal," he said callously, eyeing Faith like a predator. "But next time, I''d prefer something juicier." With a final pat on my head, he delivered a resounding smack, the sound reverberating through the corridor. He then signaled Blaze, his friend, to leave, their cruel laughter echoing in their wake. Faith rushed to my side, her concern evident. "Are you alright? Can you stand?" she asked softly, her voice laced with sympathy. I could feel her genuine care, but all I could manage was silence, my gaze fixed on the blood pooling beneath me. Forcing a gloomy smile felt like a betrayal to my inner turmoil. Was I living someone else''s life, destined for this fate? My mind wandered, seeking refuge from the bleak reality surrounding me as we walked down the corridor, my thoughts drifting further into the abyss. Every aspect of my existence felt hollow and devoid of meaning. It seemed as though darkness was slowly eroding away every semblance of hope within me. I grew weary of the perpetual struggle, tired of defending myself and striving to be understood. Why bother exerting effort to make others comprehend my actions? Despite my best attempts to demonstrate my worth, my efforts fell on deaf ears. The bitter truth emerged: nothing would change, except me. I realized this at a young age. No amount of reasoning could sway a toxic mindset set against you. Eventually, they would poison the perceptions of others, turning even your closest allies against you. The torment chips away at your mental fortitude. What was left to say or do? Did I dare hope for a brighter future? Why continue living in a cycle of perpetual misery? It felt like sinking into an endless abyss, all because of a long-forgotten childhood mistake. I attempted to explain, but they saw only a child devoid of potential, a harbinger of future troubles. The whispers followed me everywhere, branding me as the cursed one. My words seemed futile, unable to penetrate their ears, minds, or hearts. I had become a mere punchline, a receptacle for their twisted thoughts and words. At this point, my voice held no sway, no power. In this toxic environment, defeat was inevitable, and weakness prevailed. The endless cycle of pain and humiliation has worn me down. Perhaps it''s time to stop pretending that things will ever change. Maybe this is just my lot in life, the fate I must accept. As Faith and I navigate the dimly lit corridors of the bunker, her presence is my only anchor, preventing me from crumbling entirely. She''s the only person who still believes in me, who sees something worth salvaging. But even her unwavering support cannot shield me from the cruelty of the world around us. Act - 3: Faith Ensure your favorite authors get the support they deserve. Read this novel on the original website. Act - 4: Haunting Past *** Faith resemble her mother a lot¡ª they are both truly two of the most beautiful women in the bunker, at least in my eyes. Faith inherited her mom ocean-blue eyes, smooth and clear skin, peachy pink lips, and goddess-like blonde hair, she easily captivates everyone around her without even trying. Her dazzling smile, complete with energetic dimples, lights up any room. Her slender yet curvy figure despite her petite height have developed naturally over the years, making any man''s heart skip a beat as they lay there eyes on her. Then there''s me. My name is Keinan, and I used to be a normal, happy kid, brimming with joy and a big, brave smile. Now, I''m just your average teen. My best qualities are my passion for old relic and my ability to think outside the box, always being kind and helping those in need¡ªtraits my mother always praised in me and my brother since birth. We were once a close-knit family: me, my brother, Mom, and Dad. But then, something tragic happened, altering everything between us. That fateful day haunts me still, a constant wish to turn back time and undo it all. If only I hadn''t been so foolish. It''s a mistake I deeply regret, one that cost me my friends, cost me my brother, and fractured our family. If I could reset everything, maybe I could reclaim the warmth and brightness that once filled our lives. But for some reason, I can''t recall much of the accident¡ªjust how it began, and then everything becomes a blur. This haunts me constantly. Sometimes, I still have nightmares, trying to piece together the missing fragments, desperate to understand what happened that day. It drives me almost to the brink of insanity. I''ve tried to reason with myself, wondering if it''s because I was so young when it occurred... *** Some years ago... On an early morning, I was playing around as usual with my brother Ethan. A few weeks ago, we had stumbled upon an old comic book while exploring a newly cleared digging site. The comic vividly depicted Earth as it once was¡ªlush green landscapes, a vibrant blue sky dotted with towering skyscrapers from ancient times. The concept of planes and cars fascinated me. "My grandpa used to tell me stories about how people flew in those metal bird machines called planes," I exclaimed, holding the comic up to the dim ceiling light, imagining soaring off to distant lands. Ethan and I were always the first to explore the newly opened corridor halls. I can still recall the fresh scent of newly unearthed earth and minerals. While others were occupied with their duties, I raced around, playing joyfully and carefree, like any normal kid would be. Unauthorized usage: this tale is on Amazon without the author''s consent. Report any sightings. It was shaping up to be another mundane day until I bumped into my older brother Ethan around late morning. We often took leisurely strolls through the sprawling hallway corridors that extended from Sector A to G. As we wandered, my attention was drawn to Mr. Orson, the chief of the miner crew, engaged in what appeared to be a heated and significant conversation. Intrigued, I ducked behind some barrels and construction materials, eager to eavesdrop and uncover the reason behind their intense argument. After what felt like an eternity, I listened intently to catch snippets of their conversation. I overheard them discussing a significant discovery¡ªan old door barricaded at the very end of the west wing corridor in Sector G. Opinions were divided about whether to send an expedition to explore beyond the door. Some argued for sealing it up and leaving it alone, while others were in favor of investigating further. My eyes lit up with excitement as a great idea popped into my head. However, I knew my plan was still premature. I needed to carefully plan ahead before convincing my friends and my brother Ethan to join me. I stayed behind the barrel for a couple of minutes, waiting until the coast was clear. When it was safe, I rushed toward the end of the hallway and made my way out of there. By the time my brother Ethan and I arrived back home, it was past noon. We were both so hungry we could eat a horse. Ethan immediately dug into his bowl of vegetable soup, and I followed suit. As we savored our daily rations, I listened to Mom''s nagging about how I hadn''t completed my chores properly the day before. With a distant look on my face, I stared down at my soup, trying to avoid Mom''s penetrating gaze. She always had this way of looking at me that seemed to see right through to my soul, accompanied by her usual disappointed sigh. "This feels like abuse, Mom. Why do I have to work so hard as a kid?" I muttered under my breath. "Do you still ask me these silly questions, Keinan?" Mom responded, her voice tinged with frustration. "Because this place doesn''t have enough help without you kids pitching in, and you know that. Everyone has to pull their weight so this community can survive. We all share the responsibility. Don''t you understand that yet?" She then got up from her chair, walking slowly to fetch a fresh cloth to wipe the rusty old table. She continued her lecture in a more calm tone, "Don''t you know how hard it is to get food around here? Nothing is free in this world, you do know that, right? Your brother never complains about anything. He even got promoted recently to a water boy for the miner crew now. Can''t you follow his example for once?" She smiled gently at Ethan, who smiled back playfully, tauntingly even, trying to rile me up. It worked just as he intended. A surge of jealousy and bitterness overwhelmed my better judgment. I kicked Ethan with enough force under the table to let him know exactly how I felt. He let out a loud, painful shout, "Ahh, my leg! You little shit! Get over here" He jumped up quickly and lunged toward me, reaching for my raggedy t-shirt. I darted down under the table, crawling as fast as I could to the other side. As I ran out the door, I could hear Mom yelling scolding the both of us. Briefly, I turned back toward Ethan, sticking out my tongue childishly, taunting him even more. Feeling satisfied and proud of my little victory, I made my escape in a jiffy. Act - 5: "Tales from Below" After sprinting frantically for a couple of minutes, I paused to catch my breath, casting a quick glance over my shoulder to ensure Ethan wasn''t still in pursuit. Satisfied that I was alone, I slowed my pace and continued down the hallway. At a crossroad, I turned right, entering the bustling C wing section. The area teemed with activity, stalls overflowing with various goods lining the corridor. Candle vendors, household appliances, vegetables, and finely ground insects for food I strolled past a carrot stall, swiftly grabbing one for myself before anyone noticed. At the end of the market, I turned left into a long corridor. Familiar with its twists and turns, I found an unused path. Dodging debris and garbage, I jumped down another passageway, reaching my secret spot¡ªa small, cave-like underground space just big enough for four adults. I had secretly dug out this place myself, using it as a hideout whenever Mom would yell at me or when I got into trouble. Using an old steel door with red writing that read "KEEP OUT" as cover, I entered it silently and checked the cave to make sure no one had been here while I was absent. With relief that everything checked out, I sighed, "Ah, home sweet home," I then settled down near my treasure chest. The inside was filled with old comic books and forgotten items from the past, each holding secrets I longed to uncover. After tinkering and shuffling through my stuff, I got bored pretty fast and decided to lay down on my dusty old carpet, using it as a makeshift bed, as I tried to take a nap, mom''s annoying nagging voice keep appearing in my head. Making me uneasy and shifting uncomfortably unable to sleep. It only got worse as I started to think about how shitty my life was, I hated the fact that I had to work ten hours daily as a garbage collector as a kid. instead I wished I could experience what the surface of the earth was like; I daydreamed like this all the time, longing for a time when earth was a paradise. As i lay there busy daydreaming time flashed by quickly as half an hour had suddenly pass by, then suddenly I heard a loud commotion outside¡ªsome kids were quarreling apparently, their voices escalating into loud screams. Bored and curious, I carefully opened the makeshift door slightly before peeking out of the corner to look outside, to my disappointment no one was there anymore. I decided to walk a little further, trying to find the cause of the commotion earlier. I tried to recall which direction the loud screams had come from some time ago, I ended up just around the unused path ahead by the long hallway corridor. There, I saw five kids beating up two runts. "What a messed-up situation," I thought to myself. At the same time, I knew I had to get past them to reach the crossroad. I decided to leisurely walk past them, ignoring everything at first, I tried convincing myself it wasn''t my concern and that I needed to head to work or i might be late again. So, I walk on with a cold expression while the two runts were being jumped unfairly. I could hear their screams of agony as they got kicked a bunch of time, which made me flick a quick glance at the scene before me. This book is hosted on another platform. Read the official version and support the author''s work. For a brief moment, the two boys lay on the cold, dirt-covered steel floor, and I sensed their pleading eyes upon me. In that instance, I almost stepped in to intervene as i felt bad for both of them, but I hesitated with conflict as i had to choose between obligation or justice. Do i help them? and what about my shift? if i did this i will for sure being late again to my shift. Then before they looked away from me, I noticed the runt on the left had rebellious eyes and unusually clean clothes, suggesting his family was well-off compared to the standard. The runt on the right had more cowardly eyes and looked like he was about to cry. I had seen both of them around the area countless times before, so I knew they were both around my age¡ªI was only 14 years old at the time. My sense of justice urged me to intervene, but my body remained conflicted, standing ten feet away from the scene, i tried to mentally prepare myself for what I was about to do. I convinced myself that if i walk away now i might regret it, then as i was caught up in my though something unexpected occurred¡ªsomething I''ll never forget. Out of nowhere, a stern and authoritative voice of a young girl pierced through the air, lashing out directly at the five bullies. "Stop this right now!" she commanded, her tone unwavering as she strode confidently along the long corridor hallway, her intentions clear. "What''s are guys doing to the poor kids over there?" she ask urgently, her arm resting on her small waist. "Don''t you lowlifes have anything better to do than gang up on two defenseless boys, huh?" Her fierce expression bore into them as she pointed accusingly. In that moment, I couldn''t help but notice her enchanting blue eyes, immediately drawn to the faint freckles across her cheeks. With every movement of her lips, painted a pinkish-red, my gaze remained fixated on her. The five bullies quickly redirected their attention towards her. The chubby-looking kid, seemingly the leader, approached her with a nasty look on his face, he said in a taunting tone, "Oh yeah, what are you gonna do about it shorty?" They began to encircle her. Without hesitation, I rushed in, screaming at them without a second thought, "Hey, you! Pick on someone your own size. Didn''t your mama teach you fuckers not to touch a girl?" I could feel the adrenaline rushing through my body, a mix of both fear and excitement coursing through me. Without hesitation, I dashed in towards my first target, closing the distance of ten feet before he could react. With a swift drop kick to his chest, I caught him off guard, sending him flying several meters across the hallway with a loud, agonizing scream. Rule nr one in a street fight: there are no rules, especially when you''re outnumbered. The chubby kid, seemingly the leader, finally spoke up, urging his friends on with a simple command: "Get him!" In response, a skinny looking kid with a missing front tooth charged towards me. His punch was sluggish and hardly a threat. Disappointed, I stared at him for a moment before retorting, "Really?" With a smile, I reached out with my right hand, seizing his neck and forcing him to the ground. With a swift kick to his rear, I sent him tumbling down onto his face and stomach. I then motioned with my hand, signaling at them to come at me. In an excited tone, I said, "Alright, who''s next?" Act - 6: "Escalating Tensions" In a taunting voice, I decided to provoke their leader by saying, "Only three scrawny runts left, huh? Is this the best you can do?" I wished I hadn''t said that, because they all immediately charged at me at the same time, and let me tell you, the fatso hit like a truck. While I was trying to compose myself, I searched for an opening, ducking and pacing while maintaining enough space to prevent them from surrounding me. Before I knew it, I felt the cold steel wall at my back. They cornered me, and the other runts caught me off-guard, as I attempted to wall kick over them. In that moment, I thought, "Well, I tried," while he two goons grabbed onto my right foot and pulled me down. The fatso punched me in the stomach hard, making me wanna throw up and then he went for my handsome face, making me bleed from my lips. In defiance, I spat blood in his face, further enraging him, and he landed four more shots on my ribcage. In the corner of my eye, I saw the girl trying to interrupt their assault, but I signaled her not to risk it. But suddenly in a terrified voice, the two goons I had been fighting moments ago quickly rushed toward us. Just my luck, I thought. However, they stopped abruptly about ten feet away, one of them pointing behind me, at the other end of the corridor with a look of fear in their eyes. The chubby guy then turned to look at them and asked, "What''s the matter?" They both replied simultaneously with a stuttering tone to their voices, "E...Ethan," while pointing at a shadow slowly approaching. Even the fatso, the leader, became startled and terrified, and I had never seen a chubby guy run that fast in my life. All because of my brother Ethan¡ªwhat? I wondered, trying to make sense of it. He is harmless; why would they be so afraid? I pondered. Ethan, now standing a few feet from me, reached his hand toward my head, ruffling it before grabbing my neck. He smirked slightly at me and said, "Did you? Just get your ass kicked, you little runt!" Without giving me time to answer, he just put his right arm around my neck and smiled at me in a jocular way. After playfully mocking me, his eyes shifted in the direction where the five goons were last seen fleeing in fear. He stopped suddenly with a tone of coldness. He said, "Meet up with me later at the new G wing digging site where I work, and don''t be late." Just like that, he left in the direction where the five runts escaped, walking like the grim reaper himself. A sudden voice caught my attention. "Here you go." I turned to the left to see the same blond girl from earlier. She was handing me her handkerchief. I replied with an awkward "Thank you," nervous and afraid I might act stupid. I suddenly blurted out, "I''m Keinan, by the way," reaching out to shake her hand. While staring down, expecting her hand to reach out to mine, I noticed that she just stood there for a brief second, making me slightly panic. I then looked up at her face. When our eyes met for the very first time, it was like watching this serene, beautiful blue ocean. At that very moment, she decided to smile innocently at me with a playful and gentle tone. She replied, "My name is Faith, thank you for the helping me." Our conversation halted as I could not think of a response. She cautiously stepped closer to me within inches. Only a few feet from me, without any warning at all, she just suddenly wrapped her arms around me and rested her chin perfectly on my shoulder. Reading on Amazon or a pirate site? This novel is from Royal Road. Support the author by reading it there. Did she just hug me? I thought to myself, but surprisingly, I didn''t mind it at all. It was gratifying, yet the sweetest hug I had ever felt in my life. A mixed feeling of confusion and sheer delight overwhelmed me. I didn''t move an inch; I didn''t know how to react since I was only a kid back then. So, in a shaking voice, I said, "Yu... Yo... you smell nice," closely to her ear while stuttering. Then, I discerned her soft giggling laugh, sending her gentle breath across my neck, stirring a shiver right to my innocent heart. It was like Cupid fired an arrow right through me, piercing the core of my heart and making me yearn for more of her nimble touch. Our sweet moment was suddenly interrupted by the black-haired kid on the floor with a painful expression. He said, "Hello, a little help here, please," while moaning slightly in pain, struggling to get up. He then said, "I can''t stand by myself." Faith and I ended our little sweet moment awkwardly before helping both of them up off the floor. We introduced ourselves, and so did both of them. While standing next to them, I noticed the bruises all over their bodies. Well, to be honest, I didn''t look any better than them. The kid with black hair was Ajax, and the average ginger kid was Blaze. They claimed simply to have been unlucky when running into the five kids by accident. They said that while they were having fun talking and not paying attention to their surroundings, they bumped into the five kids by accident, and that''s when things escalated. They continued with their stories of how they were going to visit the new G wing Corridor before the unfortunate encounter with the five goons. But I could tell by the way Ajax interrupted Blaze to take charge of the conversation that they were hiding something. However, I didn''t want to make a big deal out of it at the time, so I shrugged it off. Act - 7: The Monotonous Grind When we all calmed down and became more comfortable with each other, I suddenly felt the pain all over my body as the adrenaline from the fight wore off. Then I remembered I was supposed to be at work and was already late. With a mix of panic and urgency, I quickly explained that I needed to be somewhere. I cut our meeting short but told them I lived near the E wing sector in the second hallway by the slum. We agreed they would visit me tomorrow morning to get to know each other better. I hurriedly started running, already bracing myself for the scolding I''d inevitably receive for being late. Despite the chaos of the day, a sense of happiness filled me at having made new friends. A slight grin crept across my face as I ran frantically, wrestling with a whirlwind of emotions. That unexpected moment when she hugged me was etched deeply into my memory¡ªit felt like love at first sight, though I blushed to admit it at just 14 years old and still learning about such things. Thoughts of her persisted, stirring a powerful feeling in my heart. Conflicted and running like a wild dog, I made odd facial expressions, oblivious to the stares of passersby who likely thought I was up to mischief once again. Finally reaching my destination, I was met with Mrs. Adeline''s stern gaze and her chilling words, "You are in big trouble, young man." Goosebumps prickled my skin as I hurriedly joined the line with the other children. They stood there, of varying ages and heights, each bearing tired, broken expressions and clothes that were torn and dirty. I empathized deeply with their plight. Together, we waited in line to receive our daily task assignments and the numbers that dictated our movements throughout the underground sectors. Life was bleak; we were like rats scurrying underground, moving from home to home across dimly lit corridors for ten grueling hours a day. Our only reward: a meager pack of tasteless soup. As lowborn children with no family status, we were the unfortunate ones assigned to the dirty jobs¡ªcollecting house garbage from hall to hall in exchange for our daily ration points. I felt the weight of the world on my shoulders as I stood in line, waiting for my turn. The underground corridors buzzed with the low hum of generators, the air thick with the scent of oil and mildew. My earlier bravado had faded, replaced by a sense of impending doom. Around me, kids shuffled forward in silence, their eyes downcast, their spirits broken. Enjoying the story? Show your support by reading it on the official site. Mrs. Adeline''s voice cut through the murmur of the crowd. Her eyes, sharp as a hawk''s, scanned each of us, her expression a mix of weariness and stern authority. She wore a patched-up coat, her face lined with the harshness of survival. When my turn came, she didn''t bother to hide her irritation. "Late again, Keinan," she said, her voice like a whip crack. She marked my card with a swift motion. "Get to work." I then joined my assigned group, I noticed the tired, resigned faces of my fellow workers. We moved through the maze-like tunnels, the dim lights casting eerie shadows on the walls. The air was heavy with the smell of rust and decay, the distant sounds of machinery creating an oppressive backdrop. At the garbage collection area, I grabbed a battered metal bin and a pair of gloves that barely held together. The stench hit me like a physical blow, a putrid mix of rot and filth that made my stomach churn. I fought the urge to retch, breathing shallowly through my mouth. The work was tough, each bag of refuse a challenge to lift, each piece of recyclable material a treasure to be salvaged. The dimly lit corridors stretched endlessly before me, lined with stacks of garbage bags that exuded a nauseating blend of decay and dampness. Each step I took echoed faintly against the cold, concrete walls, punctuated by the distant hum of machinery. As I lifted each bag into the bin, the stench enveloped me¡ªa putrid miasma that seeped into my skin, clinging to me like a second skin. My breaths were shallow, the foul odor a constant assault on my senses. Despite the discomfort, I pressed on, driven by the necessity to earn my daily ration points, to survive another day in this bleak existence. The work was grueling, every movement an effort of sheer willpower. My muscles protested with each bend and lift, my back aching from the strain. Yet, amidst the physical torment, my mind wandered to fleeting visions of sunlight and open skies. These brief escapes into daydreams provided a small respite, a fragile hope that gave me thought of comfort imagining a life beyond the labyrinthine tunnels and mountains of waste. I wiped sweat from my brow, smudging dirt across my skin. Each moment spent in this underground purgatory reinforced the harsh reality of my existence. But as I toiled onward, I clung to the promise of a future where the burdens of survival would not weigh so heavily upon my shoulders. When the shift finally ended, I felt like I was walking on air, despite the pain. I collected my ration of soup and headed home, a slight smile on my face. The day had been tough, but I had survived and helped my family put food on the table. Act - 8: Mistake Of The Past If you discover this narrative on Amazon, be aware that it has been stolen. Please report the violation. Act - 9: "Creature Of The Dark" If you stumble upon this narrative on Amazon, be aware that it has been stolen from Royal Road. Please report it. Act - 10: Infected Unauthorized reproduction: this story has been taken without approval. Report sightings. Act - 11: Unbroken You might be reading a pirated copy. Look for the official release to support the author. Act - 12: Darkness" If you discover this narrative on Amazon, be aware that it has been stolen. Please report the violation. Act - 13: "Whispers of a Dark Rebirth" Support creative writers by reading their stories on Royal Road, not stolen versions. Act -14: "The Forbidden Zone" A case of literary theft: this tale is not rightfully on Amazon; if you see it, report the violation. Act - 15: "Nightfall in New York" It was too late for me to hide. By this point, the ruined buildings loomed over me, the darkness came, as the sun start to dim. Leaving a waking reminder of the desolation lands that had suddenly change the atmosphere of this city. As I stepped backward my footsteps tumbling crunching on the ground, I noticed a bunch of glowing eyes in the darkness all around me from inside the buildings. They seem to stare directly at me with an unsettling intensity, reflecting the faint light. Then came the whispers. It was faint at first, almost indistinguishable from the howling wind that swept through the broken windows. "Hello? Anyone there? Help us, please!" The voice was soft, pleading, a cry for help that would have tugged at the heartstrings of any compassionate soul. But I knew better, Ethan harrowing face was my reminder. This was their trickery, their hunting technique designed to lure out unsuspecting victims. I paused as I scanned around my surrounding, my breath hitching in my throat. The hair on the back of my neck stood on end as I strained to listen. The whispers grew louder, more insistent, echoing through the empty halls of the building. "Please, help us. We''re trapped!" The voices overlapped, a discordant of desperation that seemed almost too real. But I had seen their kind before. I had witnessed their deception, their merciless hunt. The eyes in the darkness blinked slowly, a predatory gleam that show they were far from being a human being. I knew they were watching me, waiting for me to take the bait, to step into their trap. The whispers continued on, a fake call to bait me. "Don''t leave us. Please, we are hungry." Each word was carefully crafted to show sympathy in a sadistic way, to draw out the weak hearted like my old self. I could almost hear the smirk behind those words, the anticipation of killing me. Inside me, the voice hissed, "Don''t falter, boy. These creatures are merciless, but they aren''t stupid. They know when to sense that something wrong, hihihi; you''re not normal they await confuse so that''s why they ripped you apart yet." "So, what in the hell are these vile creatures?" I asked, my voice tinged with both curiosity and dread. The voice responded, dripping with dark amusement, "They used to be like you once, believe it or not. But thanks to greed and mutation, this is the nature way of karma, and this is your ancestors'' sin and the result of their corruptions." I became speechless. "They are human. Or used to be?" The realization sent a shiver down my spine, a grotesque twist to the already grim situation. The voice chuckled softly, "Yes, they were human. Now they''re evolved into something else after century of living and adapting in radiations contaminated land. This is what happens when you forsake humanity and let darkness consume you without control." "Does that mean... am I going to turn into one of them?" I asked, my heart pounding. The voice laughed, a chilling sound that sent a chill through my bones. "Hihihi, don''t worry, boy. I''ve tried to do already, but your mutation is unique. Let me rephrase that¡ªit''s more like a failure. Now I''m stuck inside with you, with a kid. But that means you''re safe from becoming like them. You and I are something different, something more of a abomination to them, yet stronger." The weight of the revelation pressed down on me, the dark laughter of the voice echoing in my mind. I stood there, staring into the glowing eyes, no longer feeling the same fear. Instead, a cold determination settled over me. These creatures, once human, were now nothing more than a testament to the corruption and greed that had corrupted them. And I, with the voice inside me, was something entirely different. The story has been illicitly taken; should you find it on Amazon, report the infringement. I moved cautiously, the ground crunching beneath my feet. Suddenly, the roar of an engine echoed through the skies, shattering the stillness. A blinding light pierced the darkness, sweeping over the ruined cityscape. My instincts kicked in, and the voice inside me hissed, "Hide, behind that abandoned car." I darted toward the rusted vehicle, crouching low as the light passed overhead. The hum of machinery grew louder, followed by a series of ropes descending from the sky. Figures in unfamiliar clothes and gear I had never seen before began to rappel down the ropes. Each one held a flashlight in one hand and a sleek, metallic object in the other. Racing thoughts flooded my brain with questions as I noticed their distinctly different appearance from anything I had known. "Bzzz. ''At 05749 North ''Hotel'', Bravo team landed in New York successfully. Preparing to move out," one of them said, his voice clear and authoritative. "Bzzz. Copy that, Team Bravo. Look out for Shriekers and Demonos. Don''t let your guard down." "Bzzz. ''Copy that Black Hawk. Advancing to 5768 North ''Whiskey''. Operation Shadowfall activation in progress," another voice replied. "Bzzz. Copy that, Bravo Team. Good luck and Godspeed, and may the mission be successful." I peeked out from my hiding spot, my heart pounding. Humans. They must be here to help the people in the bunker, I thought, a glimmer of hope flickering in my chest. I was about to step forward and greet them when the voice inside me hissed again, dripping with skepticism. "Don''t be naive little boy; Do you really think they are here to help? Look at what they are holding. That''s called a weapon. That''s a terrifying technology from the modern world that can kill you in second from far away, really, really far away. And these are the people! They are one of the survivors who destroyed this world long ago." It then hit me like a bucket of cold water. Grandpa had told me countless stories, almost like fairytales, about the rich and powerful, blinded by their greed. They had enslaved and killed people, using money as their weapon. Could they be the same people? The ones who had caused so much destruction? I watched them carefully, my initial hope giving way to suspicion. These people moved with synchronization, their faces obscured by helmets and visors. They scanned the area, their movements sharp and practiced. There were at least 500 of them, a small army, each one had the same outfit. My mind raced. If these were the same people Grandpa had warned me about, then they were not here to help. They were here to reclaim, to take control once more. The voice inside me whispered, "Stay hidden, boy. Trust no one." I stayed crouched behind the car, my eyes following their every move. The cold metal of the car''s frame pressed against my palm as hide silently. The voice had been right; I had to asset the situation more carefully. *** The soldiers regrouped, their voices carrying over the distance. "Alpha team is waiting. Move out." *** As they moved away, I let out a breath I hadn''t realized I was holding. My world had suddenly changed in one day, and but so had I. There was no room for blind trust anymore. The stories Grandpa had told me as a little kid were not just tales either, they were real warnings past down from one generation to another. And now, I knew the people in the bunker was in big trouble. So, I had to warn them. But then, the question kicks me? all the misery I had been through caused a conflict within me. Do I still help them after everything they did to me? Despite their wrongdoings. I mean I killed someone cold blooded, and it was exciting... why did that happen? I stayed hidden until the last of them disappeared into the shadows, my mind reeling with the faces of faith, my mom and my dad, No I can''t leave them what would Ethan say. Fuck no, I had to get there before them. But will they believe me after what I did? Argh!! Screw it, I have to try. The voice inside me was surprisingly silent now, but its message was clear. In this new world, trust was a luxury I could no longer afford, and that''s goes both ways. Act - 16: "Stalkers" Stolen from Royal Road, this story should be reported if encountered on Amazon. Act - 17: " Strange Encounters" This tale has been unlawfully lifted from Royal Road. If you spot it on Amazon, please report it. Act - 18: "Legacy of Hard Times" The story has been illicitly taken; should you find it on Amazon, report the infringement. Act - 19: "The Dark Domain" This story has been taken without authorization. Report any sightings. Act - 20: "Awakening" I leaped up the stairs, my heart pounding. Bursting through the door, I saw him¡ªKayn, the soldier with the scar across his right eye. His sneer sent chills down my spine as he hovered over Faith, who was tied up, her own panties cruelly stuffed into her mouth to muffle her cries. "You bastard, get off her!" I roared, my voice raw with fury. With a powerful kick, I sent Kayn flying into the night table. He crashed into it, the impact rattling the room. Faith''s eyes met mine, tears streaming down her face, and my blood boiled. Darkness began to creep into the corners of the room, feeding off my rage. Kayn quickly recovered, his eyes flashing with malicious intent. He grabbed for his gun, but I was faster. I lunged at him, our bodies colliding in a brutal clash. My fist connected with his jaw, sending a shockwave of pain up my arm, but he barely flinched. With a snarl, he swung back, his fist slamming into my ribs, knocking the breath out of me. The room blurred as we exchanged blows, moving with deadly speed. Kayn''s combat training was evident, each punch and kick precise and powerful. But I had something he didn''t¡ªthe shadows. They wrapped around me, bolstering my strength, guiding my movements. Kayn landed a blow to my face, sending me reeling. Blood filled my mouth, but I ignored it, diving back into the fight. I ducked under his next punch, driving my elbow into his gut. He grunted, doubling over, and I seized the opportunity. Grabbing his arm, I twisted it behind his back, forcing him to his knees. "You think you can hurt her and get away with it?" I hissed, my voice low and dangerous. Kayn let out a guttural laugh, even as he struggled against my grip. "You have no idea what you''re dealing with, you little shit." With a surge of strength, he broke free, elbowing me in the ribs. I stumbled back, and he was on me in an instant, his fists raining down like hammers. Pain exploded in my chest and head, but I refused to go down. Using the shadows in my domain, I let them envelop me, my vision sharpening. I moved with inhuman speed, dodging his blows and countering with my own. My fists blurred as I struck, each punch fueled by the darkness within. Kayn staggered back, blood streaming from his nose. His eyes widened in shock and rage. "What the hell are you?" I didn''t answer. Instead, I let the shadows guide me, moving faster than ever. In a flash, I was behind him, my arm wrapping around his throat in a chokehold. He thrashed and struggled, but I held firm, tightening my grip. "You''re nothing," I whispered into his ear. "And you will pay for what you''ve done." With a final, desperate surge, Kayn broke free, gasping for air. He turned to face me, eyes blazing with hatred. "This isn''t over," he spat, clutching his throat. The tale has been stolen; if detected on Amazon, report the violation. But I was already moving, a blur of shadows and fury. My fist collided with his jaw, sending him crashing to the ground. He lay there, dazed and bleeding, unable to rise. I turned to Faith, quickly untying her bonds and removing the gag. She gasped for air, tears still streaming down her face. "It''s okay," I murmured, holding her close. "You''re safe now." Faith sobbed uncontrollably. "Keinan, I was so scared," she managed to say, her voice trembling. "I thought... I thought he would..." She sobs into tears placing her head onto my chest. "I''m here," I assured her, gently stroking her hair. "I won''t let anything happen to you. We need to move, though. More soldiers are coming." Faith nodded, wiping her tears with the back of her hand. "What do we do now?" she asked, her voice still shaky as I turned away letting her getting her clothes on. "We find a way out," I said, determination hardening my tone. "And we get you to safety." The voice inside me hissed a warning. "Boy, his men are closing in. You need to move, now." Panic surged through me as I scanned the room, searching for an escape route for Faith and me. My mind raced, analyzing every possible option. Suddenly, I sensed imminent danger and instinctively dove to cover Faith. The air exploded with the deafening roar of gunfire as bullets tore into the room, hitting me again and again. In that suspended moment, as time seemed to slow, I was on top of her petite body and locked eyes with Faith. Her terrified gaze met mine as I smiled at her with my usual smile, and I locked her serene blue ocean eyes. "It''s okay, Faith," I murmured, blood bubbling up in my mouth. Her scream cut through the chaos, raw and desperate. "Please, Keinan, you''re hurt! Don''t do this!" She pushed against me, but my resolve was unyielding. Bullets flew around us, tearing through the air with lethal intent. The room seemed to close in, a cacophony of violence and fear. I braced myself, feeling each impact as the bullets ripped through my body. The pain was immense, but I refused to let it show. My sole focus was on Faith, shielding her with everything I had. Faith''s eyes were wide with horror, her tears mixing with the blood that now covered both of us. Her hands, trembling and frantic, tried to push me away, to protect me in return, but I stood firm. The sound of gunfire was deafening, but all I could hear was the pounding of my heart and Faith''s desperate cries. Time seemed to slow. With a trembling hand, I brushed a loose strand of her blonde hair behind her ear. Our eyes closed as we shared a tender, fleeting kiss. Her cheeks flushed, but when she pulled back, the realization hit her. My lips had gone still. Her eyes widened in horror as she saw the lifelessness in mine. The bullets had ravaged me¡ªtwenty rounds at least¡ªand I lay there, smiling even in death. Faith''s scream echoed through the room. "No, Keinan! Please, no!" She shook me, her hands stained with my blood. "Wake up! You can''t leave me!" But I was already gone, my last act to protect her. Soldiers grabbed Faith, dragging her away as she fought and cried, her eyes never leaving my lifeless body. "Keinan! No! Please, don''t take me away! Keinan!" Her voice faded as they pulled her from the room, her sobs the last sound I heard as darkness enveloped me. Faith''s sobs grew louder, echoing through the room as soldiers burst in, roughly dragging her and Kayn away. Her screams filled the air, her eyes never leaving my lifeless form. The room, now silent and still, bore witness to the end of one life and the shattering of another. The voice inside me, now distant and cold, whispered, "How can this be my fucking bloodline? Boy love make you blind and weak. You gone learn in time... Hihihi" As the room fell silent, a strange sensation coursed through me. The bullets lodged in my body began to push out, the wounds closing with an eerie, almost mechanical precision. Pain surged and then ebbed, replaced by a tingling warmth as my flesh knitted itself back together. Minutes dragged by, each one an eternity, until finally, my chest heaved with a long, gasping breath. I was back alive... Act - 21: "Void" An eerie silence was suddenly broken by a familiar hissing sound. Emerging from the depths of the void, a shadowy figure appeared, bearing a humanlike form with piercing red eyes that exuded a menacing aura. The dark figure spoke, a sinister grin creeping across its shadowed face. "Welcome to our realm, young one." The words slithered out of its mouth like serpents, dripping with dark intentions and a mocking glee. Its twisted smile, like a grotesque mask, hinted at the horrors that awaited in its realm. My scream erupted into the darkness, echoing off the void and reverberating back at me. The shadows seemed to tremble in response, my fists clenching with rage. "Why am I stuck here?" I growled, my voice filled with frustration and anger. "I have to find them!" My eyes blazed with a fierce determination, desperate for some kind of action in this deep void. "You''re in this mess because you made a huge mistake, kid. It''s going to take some time for you to recover," he said with a smirk on his face. The voice continued with its mocking tone. "So you are here to learn and become what is necessary, boy. Your power is strong but uncontrolled. I will shape you into a powerful, stoic man." He let out a sharp, cold laugh. "Hihihi. From now on, you''ll be training here with me. I''ll teach you everything you need to know. Time moves differently here compared to the outside world; an hour here feels like a mere second out there. So don''t stress about the clock." The void was a vacuum, void of any physical sensation or temperature. Yet, I could feel a pressure building in my chest, a heaviness settling in my bones as the reality of my situation sank in. I managed to keep my voice steady, despite the turmoil raging within me, as I asked, "What''s the first lesson?" His eyes glinted with a sinister joy. "The first lesson is to embrace the darkness that resides within you. Become one with it. Channel it, manipulate it, and make it your source of power. But be warned, this will require immense dedication and mental fortitude." The air seemed thick with menace and the very fabric of the void trembled with dark energy. My heart pounded in my chest, a primal instinct warning me of the dangers that lurked in this place. I steeled myself, knowing that the only way to survive was to embrace the unknown and conquer my fears. The stakes were high, but I could not afford to be weak in this unforgiving world. The voice spoke sternly, "Concentrate. Call upon the shadows and bend them to your command." My eyes snapped shut, blocking out the dim light of the void. In the darkness behind my eyelids, I could sense a shadowy presence growing in response to my call. It twisted and swirled, slowly at first but picking up speed and intensity as I focused my mind. The days blurred together as I endured rigorous training. The voice barked commands like a merciless drill sergeant, pushing me to my limits. "Do it again! Harder! Faster!" Every fiber of my being screamed in protest, but I refused to give up. For every mistake, there were harsh reprimands; for every achievement, there was begrudging praise. After a particularly difficult session, the voice snarled, "You''re weak and pitiful. But you''re making progress. Keep pushing." Exhausted and out of breath, I collapsed to the ground. The shadows around me seemed to dissipate, disappearing like wisps of smoke. My entire body was sore and bruised from countless failures, but I had made some progress. With each try, the darkness became more familiar and fluid, its movements becoming easier to control. *** Day 2: As I practiced my powers the following day, inky tendrils crept up my arms and constricted around me like a suffocating snake. I struggled to maintain control, gritting my teeth against the cold grip of darkness. "Focus!" My mentor''s stern voice cut through the haze, urging me to reign in my abilities. "You are stronger than this. Control the shadows, don''t let them control you." I fought against the suffocating blackness, my muscles screaming in agony as I reached out desperately for the elusive shadows. But they slithered through my fingers like ethereal smoke, taunting me with their slippery escape. "Pathetic," the voice hissed, dripping with malice. "Do you truly want to save anyone, or are you content with being a pitiful weakling?" This novel''s true home is a different platform. Support the author by finding it there. My heart was torn between determination and fear, pounding fiercely in my chest. Despite the overwhelming darkness that surrounded me, I clung to a glimmer of hope with all my might. It was a constant battle within myself. Falling to my knees with a loud thud, I gasped for air that felt like it had been stolen from me. My muscles screamed in agony from the intense effort I had just exerted. The void seemed to be suffocating me, relentlessly pressing in on all sides and leaving me struggling for every breath. My vision blurred as the shadows danced and swirled before me, disorienting and dizzying. The weight of the darkness was almost too much to bear, crushing me from the inside out. "Again," the voice demanded, its tone merciless. My body was a prisoner, frozen in a cage of pain and fear. Every muscle screamed in agony, refusing to obey my desperate commands. The darkness pressed in on me, suffocating and constricting, draining the last shreds of strength from my trembling limbs. A moment of silence passed, filled only by the sound of my uneven breaths. Eventually, the voice spoke once more, this time in a gentler tone that seemed almost thoughtful. "Take a break, young one. You deserve it." I collapsed onto the cold void, finding strange comfort in its chill. The shadows retreated, leaving me in a peaceful quiet. As exhaustion overtook me, my consciousness faded into a calming sense of rest. *** Day 4: Sleep was a distant memory, my mind and body pushed to their limits. The voice was relentless, like a drill sergeant, its commands sharp and biting. "Stand up! You think your enemies will wait for you to catch your breath?" I staggered to my feet, the shadows swirling around me. "Use your anger, your fear. They are fuel for your power." The darkness responded, coiling around my arms and legs. For a moment, I felt a surge of strength, but it slipped away, leaving me gasping. *** Day 6: With intense focus and precision, I drew intricate patterns in the air with my hands, each movement controlling the shadows that danced around me. The voice, a deep and commanding presence, occasionally spoke words of praise, but mostly urged me to keep going. Sweat dripped down my forehead as I pushed myself to perfect my control over the shadows. "You''re getting closer," the voice said, its approval fueling my determination to master this dark gift. "Again!" it would bark, forcing me to rise, even when my legs trembled and my vision blurred. The shadows lashed out at my command, slicing through the darkness with a newfound strength. "Use your anger. Channel your pain. Let it become your power." As days blurred into almost a week, the void surrounding me became a swirling sea of shifting shadows. Each movement of my hands created intricate patterns in the air, controlling the darkness like a conductor orchestrating an opaque symphony. The voice let out a hiss of approval as I successfully held the shadows in place. I enveloped my arms with them like a protective shield. "You''re getting better, but you''re not quite there yet."The relentless drills and grueling exercises pushed me to my limits, but I could feel the strength building in my muscles with each passing day. My once shaky and weary movements were now fluid and precise, as if some supernatural force had taken over my body. The torment was worth it for the immense power coursing through my veins.The voice, now a faint murmur in the depths of my thoughts, assured me that time was passing slowly on the outside. When I eventually emerged from this void, I would be fully prepared. As the final day arrived, the void seemed to have a new energy. The shadows were more alive, their darkness seeping into my very being. It was like we had formed a connection, a deep bond that I hadn''t felt before. The voice that had haunted me for so long was now silent, leaving me alone with my thoughts and the swirling shadows. The shadows thickened around me, cold and comforting. They merged with my body, becoming an extension of my will. I closed my eyes and surrendered to the darkness, feeling it pull me deeper into its embrace. When I opened my eyes again, I could see the faint outlines of the void, a twisted reflection of reality. As my vision shifted, colors took on new depth and life. Each flutter of a butterfly''s wings sent ripples of light across the sky. I could see the ebb and flow of energy within every living thing, and the shadows seemed to whisper secrets in a language only I could understand. With a flick of my wrist, they twirled and merged into intricate patterns, waiting for me to unleash their power. The world had transformed before my very eyes, and I was now its master. As I emerged from the darkness, the shadows clung to my body, creating a swirling aura of dark energy. In that moment, I felt a surge of strength and speed, as if I was in perfect harmony with the shadows. The voice had been correct; I was once weak, but now I was ready to unleash destruction. The world around me had changed. I was no longer bound by light and space. Every pulse of energy, every flicker of light, was now visible to me. The shadows danced and swirled, waiting for my command. I willed myself forward, and the darkness obeyed. My form dissolved into shadow, moving silently and swiftly through the void. I felt everything around me, every heartbeat, every breath. The world was a canvas, and I was the brush. As I emerged from the pitch-black void, my skin prickled at the sensation of shadows wrapping around me like a cloak. My muscles tensed as the darkness pulsated with an otherworldly power, and I felt a surge of strength and agility coursing through my veins. The disembodied voice had been right - I was not ready or strong before. But now, with this newfound connection to the shadows, I was more powerful than ever. I inhaled deeply, savoring the cool night air. The world around me was pulsating with life, more vibrant than I had ever perceived before. For a moment, I stood still and let my senses absorb everything around me. The shadows enveloped me like a protective veil, murmuring secrets and leading my movements. With a mere thought, I blended into the darkness, gliding effortlessly, undetected and unheard... Act - 22: "Breaking Point" I blended into the darkness, my senses on high alert and my body tensed with anticipation. The quietness of my surroundings was almost overwhelming, but I strained to pick up any sound that might guide me towards Faith and my mother. Suddenly, I pick up a faint murmur that broke through the silence, a soft whisper that could easily have been missed. However, it was unmistakably my mother''s voice. It was as though my body had transformed into a finely tuned instrument, each beat of my heart and each movement calculated and purposeful. The darkness around me seemed to bend and shift, revealing a clear path towards my destination. With each step i dashed onward, I felt a surge of energy coursing through me, propelling me forward with a supernatural speed. I was a phantom, a blur of movement, zeroing in on the elusive source of the whisper. As I entered another dimly lit chamber, my eyes were met with a chilling sight. Ten soldiers stood in a circle around my mother, who was on her knees with a look of fear and defiance etched on her face. Each soldier held a rifle, their fingers poised on the triggers. My heart raced as anger surged through me, causing the shadows around me to twist and swirl in response to my fury. My feet pounded against the pavement, as i landed quietly onto the ground and my heart racing as I darted from one shadow to the next. The soldiers were caught off guard, their guns aimed in the wrong direction. In a burst of adrenaline-fueled movement, I weaved through their ranks, knocking them down and causing chaos to erupt around me. They never even saw me coming. The nearest soldier''s feet lifted off the ground as I swept his legs out from under him, his surprise evident on his face. As he fell, I disarmed him in one swift movement, his gun clattering to the ground. I spun around, using his own momentum to launch him into two of his comrades, causing chaos to erupt even more as they stumbled backwards, their formation breaking. Before the rest could react, I was already on the move, my body like vanish again into the shadow. Then reappearing behind another soldier with a swift kick that sent him flying onto another soldier, while a sharp jab to the throat silenced another before he could raise the alarm. The remaining soldiers finally registered the threat, their weapons swinging toward me, but it was too late. As I darted through the shadows, the darkness seemed to envelop me like a cloak. Gunfire echoed in my ears, but I moved with such grace and speed that the bullets couldn''t touch me. My agile strikes landed with pinpoint accuracy, each movement seamlessly blending into the next, as if I were performing a deadly dance. In this chaos, every move had to be perfect; any misstep could mean death. The enemy soldier aimed his gun at me, ready to pull the trigger. But I was too quick, already behind him with my hand wrapped around his wrist, disarming him. A swift strike to his jaw knocked him down. In just a few moments, the chamber fell silent, except for the heavy breaths of the injured soldiers. My mother lifted her head, her eyes wide with a mix of relief and fear. As I approached her, the shadows retreated, and I knelt by her side, my heart beating rapidly from the rush of adrenaline. I hesitantly approached my mother, unsure of how to address the elephant in the room. Her usually eyes were distant and her smile seemed forced. "Mom," I ventured, my voice trembling with worry, "is everything alright?" My heart raced as I waited for her response, unsure if I truly wanted to know the answer. The narrative has been taken without authorization; if you see it on Amazon, report the incident. She nodded, tears streaming down her face. "I should be grateful to you," she said through gritted teeth. Despite her words, her heart was torn between gratitude and resentment towards the person in front of her. She couldn''t deny that I had helped her, but she also couldn''t ignore the pain I had caused her. Her hand trembled as she lifted it to her chest, her eyes darting between mine. "I-I can''t find your father," she said, her voice shaking. "Have you seen him? Is he safe?" My eyes darted everywhere except at my mother, my hands fidgeting nervously in my lap. The weight of the truth was suffocating, making it hard to breathe. I finally mustered the courage to speak, each word coming out in a weak, trembling voice. "Mom...Dad...he''s gone," I managed to say before breaking down into quiet sobs.Her face contorted with a mixture of shock and sorrow. She stumbled backwards, as if the words had landed a physical blow. I moved closer to her, trying to offer some support, but it felt like there was an unbreakable barrier between us. The pain of what we had lost and what could have been was a deep chasm that no amount of words could bridge. My words were barely audible as the weight of our situation hit me like a ton of bricks. The darkness that had once been my refuge now felt suffocating, suffused with regret and the need for absolution. We were stuck in this cycle of pain and guilt, unable to break free from each other''s grasp. My mother''s eyes blazed with a fiery mix of anger and grief. Her voice, once warm and comforting, now dripped with venomous bitterness as she lashed out at me. "Its your fault! you are cursed like they said!" she spat, her words sharp as knives aimed directly at my heart. "You''re a abomination, and anyone who gets close to you is doomed to die." Her accusations cut through me like a thousand blades, leaving me reeling in pain. Before I could even respond, she continued her onslaught. "I wish it had been you instead of Ethan," she seethed, her tone dripping with unadulterated hatred. "Seeing your face makes me sick. "My lips twisted into a bitter smile, masking the storm of anger and hurt boiling inside me. "Please, Mom," I pleaded, my voice trembling. "Don''t do this. You always blame me for everything. I''m just a damn kid, and everyone else is too weak to face the truth. When things go wrong, it''s always me who gets punished." Her eyes flared with shock, then rage, but I didn''t care anymore. I could feel the sharp edge of my words cutting deeper, but the pain numbed me. "I''m done with this," I said, my voice cold and distant. "If you hate me that much, I''ll leave." Turning my back, I let the shadows close in, the suffocating darkness swallowing me whole. As the darkness swallowed me, I heard a sound that sent chills up my spine¡ªmy mother''s voice, twisted and warped. It started as a low, guttural laugh, growing louder and more unhinged with every second. Her laughter echoed in the empty space, a chilling, maniacal sound that didn''t belong to the woman I once knew. "You think you can just walk away?" she cackled, her voice breaking between fits of hysteria. "You''re no son of mine! You''re nothing but an evil, cursed abomination!" I froze, my heart pounding in my chest as her words morphed into venomous curses. "You deserve to die!" she shrieked, her voice rising to a fevered pitch. "You should''ve died in his place! You''re a monster, and I''ll make sure you burn in hell!" Her madness echoed around me, filling the void as if the darkness itself had joined her in condemning me. My feet moved faster, but her voice clawed at my mind, growing more desperate, more twisted. "I''ll kill you! You hear me? I''ll find you, and I''ll end this curse myself!" I quickened my pace, disappearing further into the shadows, but her maniacal laughter followed me, the sound of her madness etched into my soul. Act - 23: "Unlucky Fate" As I moved deeper into the shadows, the familiar voice inside me stirred, but this time, its usual sneer was gone. There was no mocking laughter, no sardonic amusement. Instead, it sounded¡­ concerned. "Kiddo," it began, the rough edge softened, "are you alright?" I didn''t respond at first. The recent confrontation with my mother still lingered, her crazed laughter echoing in my mind. The rage, the accusations, the venom¡ªit was all too raw. But eventually, I broke the silence, forcing a smirk to mask the turmoil within. "Hey, are you starting to get soft on me?" I quipped, trying to shake off the weight of what had just happened. There was a pause, and for a moment, I wondered if I had imagined it¡ªthis sudden shift in the voice that had tormented me for so long. But then, it spoke again, its tone unusually steady. "No," it said slowly, almost as if choosing its words carefully. "No kid should go through what you just did. That shit¡­ that''s not normal. You''re just unlucky, kid. Real unlucky." The words hung in the air between us, and for the first time, there was no malice, no condescension. Just a cold, hard truth that settled deep within me. And in the silence that followed, I realized¡ªmaybe I wasn''t as alone as I thought. The voice interrupted the heavy silence, its usual gruffness laced with a newfound resolve. "Let''s find that girl of yours, kiddo." I nodded to myself, the pain of the past moments still gnawing at my insides, but Faith was out there, waiting, needing me. That was my focus now. I had to push through, no matter the weight pressing down on me. "Yeah," I muttered under my breath, steeling myself. "Let''s go." The shadows curled around me as I surged forward, my steps faster, more determined. Faith was out there somewhere, and nothing¡ªnot even my own demons¡ªwould stop me from finding her. I halted for a bit as a scene of dread unfolded before me, it was mrs Adeline naked corpse, they had defiled her and the body just kept pilling up. Those bastard they had ravaged her, even though she was not the kindest person no one deserve this kind of ending. A menacing voice roars within me, dripping with venom and disdain. "This is how they operate, kid," it hisses. "They have no qualms about killing and plundering their own kind. This is the way your people do things." I try to avert my gaze, but it forces me to see the harsh reality of my species - arrogant and merciless, driven by greed and violence. If you spot this tale on Amazon, know that it has been stolen. Report the violation. The weight of this truth crushes my soul and fills me with disgust for what I have always considered my own kind."My palms ached as I lifted the shovel from the barrel, feeling its sharp edge slice into my skin. With each scoop of dirt, sweat dripped down my face, mixing with tears. My hands shook as I piled bodies into the grave - Mrs. Jenkins from next door, Mr. Patel from the market, little Timmy who always sold lemonade on the corner. Their lifeless eyes stared back at me, haunting me. But a voice in my head reminded me that time was running out and I had to move on. So I said a silent prayer and covered the grave with dirt, forcing myself to push forward in this post-apocalyptic world. In a frantic sprint towards the forbidden zone, I picked up Faith distant scream of desperation that echoed in my mind. The voice within urged me to hurry, warning me that they were closing in on their ship. With every step, my muscles burned with the power coursing through them, propelling me forward with increased speed. Darting from shadow to shadow, I could feel the adrenaline pumping through my veins as I pushed my body to its limits in a race against time. After scanning the area, I finally spot the group of at least 500 soldiers gathered together. The roar of a metallic bird fills the sky as it lands on the ground outside of the bunker. My instinct is to rush in, but my body freezes. The voice inside me warns, "Are you foolish? Haven''t you learned anything? If you expose yourself now, they will capture you and believe me, you''ll wish for death because you''ll end up as a lab experiment. "What do you expect me to do then? Let them take her? I can''t bear to lose her; she''s all I have left. Please, allow me to act, let me save her. The voice inside my head fell silent, and my body became rigid in place. I pleaded with it to release me, but nothing happened. Falling to my knees, anger flooded my soul as I stood there powerless while they loaded people onto their ship. In a final glimpse, I saw Faith''s sad face before the metallic birds lifted off, creating a powerful gust of wind that sent leaves and debris flying through the air. Though I strained with all of my might, I couldn''t budge. Desperate, I extended my hand towards Faith and shouted her name. She caught a glimpse of me through tear-filled eyes and gave me a haunting smile before the door closed slowly. In that moment, I promised to come for her, no matter what. My face contorted in pain as I gritted my teeth, my blood vessels nearly bursting from the effort. And still, I couldn''t move freely. I was in disbelief as the metallic bird spread its wings and soared into the sky. It was a poignant reminder of the struggles and hardships we face in life, causing me to wonder why we are forced to endure them all. Fueled by anger and frustration, I let out a primal scream that echoed through the valley like a wild beast, releasing raw energy into the air. I crumple to my knees, the strain of channeling my powers draining every ounce of energy from my body. The rush of adrenaline dissipates, leaving me feeling weak and dizzy. My eyelids flutter as I struggle to stay conscious, but eventually, the darkness overwhelms me and I collapse onto the cold concrete. Everything goes black as I slip into a deep, dreamless sleep..