《Kolla》 1. CAKE "Come on Afton, down this alley and to the left. We should be safe down there" Devin shrieked as he and Afton ran away from two local guards after pilfering some food from a pastry cart in the market. The two squeeze down the alley between some empty boxes and the old cobbled walls. As they get to the end of the long dark alley they see a large man grasps the side of the entrance to the alley breathing heavily gasping for air as he leans in glaring down the alley shouting "WHERE DID YOU TWO GET OFF TO". Afton and Devin stay low to the ground as they pray the guards do not check the alley more closely, Afton whispers to himself "Zema save us". The two lay on the ground besides one another, holding hands, holding their breath, making as little sound as possible. Praying the guard will pass by and they will stay safe. As they both lay on the cold hard ground they hear some mumbling at the far end of the alley and see the shadow of the large guard stumble off away still panting. The two stay silent for a few more moments before slowly and carefully standing making sure not to knock anything over. They both slowly manoeuvre back to the entrance of the alley, Devin slowly sticks his head out of the alley and glances both ways trying to spot the guards. Devin abruptly pulls back into the alley grabs Aftons shoulders and says "I hope you still have that cake in your bag, that was a close one". Afton smirks, pushes her hair out of the way of the bag and pulls the cake out. They both jump with glee trying to mask a bit of their excitement so they don''t get found. Afton puts the cake back into her bag, quickly ties her hair up and asks "where to next then?". Devin grabs her arm and after checking each side of the exit once more says "I know a spot". They leave the area in a hurry, trying to look inconspicuous. After leaving the market area of Kolla Devin brings Afton to the factory side of the city, by the docks in the south east side of town. They both try to act like they belong in the area walking with some confidence, Devin suddenly stops as they get to a large old building that looks like its barely able to stand and points to the top saying "The view from up there is mind blowing at sun set". The two climb the old broken stairs that cascade up the side of the building until they get to the top, Devin helps Afton up the final few steps because they are in the worst condition out of the lot. Afton clambers up the last few stairs with his help, after reaching the top she gasps as she gazes across the ocean at the beautiful sunset hiding itself behind the frozen mountains on the other side of the canal to Kolla. The light reflecting off the crystals on the mountain are creating a mesmerising illusion of multicoloured water Infront of them. This novel is published on a different platform. Support the original author by finding the official source. The two sit on the south edge of the building facing the water still in awe that they got away with the cake heist today. Afton pulls the cake out of her bag placing it carefully on the rooftop grabbing a large handful of the cake and waiting for Devin to do the same. The two in unison begin counting down "5,4,3,2,1" and take a large messy bite of the cake, neither of them have ever eaten something so delicious. The sensation of eating the cake is a mixture of joy and satisfaction. Afton speaks up after licking her lips saying "I hate how this is honestly a top 5 moment in my life up to this point, this cant be all this life is, we need to change something" Devin responds "do you mean more cake? or how we are living in general" Afton giggles, punches him on the shoulder grabs another handful of the cake and with her mouth half full says "not just cake, I cant live like this anymore. this is our first meal in three days and its a cake we STOLE" Devin wipes away some of the food Afton spat towards him and responds "I agree but can we please finish this amazing cake before we talk some more?" Afton nods and the two finish off the cake after a few more handfuls each, they both wipe their hands on the roof and the cloths they are wearing. Devin lays back on the roof looking up at the night sky and points "both of the moons are out tonight Afton", Afton also lies on the roof sighing and stretching her arms responding "so they are". Afton moves so she is looking at Devin then says "We have no-one in the world but ourselves, we need to change things ourselves" Devin shrugs "I agree but I''m not sure how we would even do that" Afton whispers "what if we steal something better than a cake, we got away with that who says what we can achieve?" Devin pauses for a moment to think and responds "I see what you mean but doesn''t that sound a little dangerous? we barely escaped today" Afton sits up exclaiming "we barely escaped because we didn''t plan today, I saw the cake and the old man facing other way, we had an opportunity and I took it" Devin smirks "I guess that''s true" Afton leans in closer to Devin before saying "I don''t have any idea what we will take right now but I''m sure we will find something if we go round to Radburns" Devin sighs deeply rolling his eyes before responding "you know I hate that guy... but okay, if you take the lead" They both lie looking at one another as they drift off to sleep, stomachs and heads full of dreams of a better life, apprehensive of what''s to come. 2. MORNINGS As the morning came around and the sun began rising Devin and Afton are awoken by the sounds of the local beasts in the water singing. The city is cloaked in its usual thin layer of fog for the morning, only a few tall buildings in the city are seen above it. Devin sluggishly stands, wiping the sleep out of his eyes, Afton pretends to be asleep, not making a sound, hoping to get a few more hours of sleep. Devin kicks her in the leg a few times and says "I know your awake", she stands up quickly angrily saying "if you knew I was awake why did you kick me so hard?". As they both stand stretching on the rooftop they hear the voice of an older woman shouting up towards them from the path below "Are more of you stupid kids up on that roof again, get off before the whole building comes down". They both quickly dart towards the rickety stairs on the other side of the roof and clamber their way down, swiftly leaving the area making sure not to get spotted by anyone else. They slow down to a walk as they get back into the market district of Kolla, staying far from the streets they used to escape the previous day. After finding a quiet street they stop and lean against the wall of a building and begin to chat. Afton crosses her arms and sarcastically says " so... do you agree with my Radburn idea or should I start scouting a lovely little spot for us to start begging for the week?" "I think its a good idea I just don''t like Radburn and what he does" Devin responds, still catching his breath. "We wont get caught no matter what happens, we will get out of the jobs together" Afton says, looking Devin in the eyes. After they both recover from the morning journey they stand up and gather their bearings before conversing about the directions to Radburns hideout. Navigating through the bustling market, they ventures down narrow streets and pathways, searching for the sign that they know leads to Radburns hideout. Time seems to stretch as they diligently comb through the vibrant market. Finally, after some perseverance and half an hour of wandering around gazing down every alley they walked past a chalk drawing of a cat with one paw pointing down an alley catches their eyes. Relief floods their bodies. The drawing looks a bit weathered like it has been there for a long time but it was still clear that this was the direction to go. They both pick up a piece of chalk that they see underneath the drawing and carefully add a notch for themselves as a silent testament to the beginning of a new chapter of their life''s. You could be reading stolen content. Head to Royal Road for the genuine story. Devin nervously gulps as they put the chalk back down on the ground and begin to walk down the dark empty alley, Afton holds his hand to give him some comfort. Together, they follow the chalk drawings that lead them through the winding alleyways and across bustling streets, traversing through a few districts of the city before they eventually get to the very south docks of the city. They find stairs at the side of the water that they remember lead to the hideout in the old forgotten sewers of the town, a place predating Kolla''s establishment. They apprehensively go down the old, slippery, unkept stairs and across a short pathway that is just over the water line. Finally they reach a large spherical opening that is incorporated into a chalk drawing of a cats face with its mouth open, most of it has been washed off by the water, the intent behind it still remains visible. "Are you sure about this?" Devin says before entering the sewer tunnel with a lot of fear in his voice. Afton hugs him "We can always leave if he asks us to do something we are un sure about". Afton releases Devin and the two stand, staring into the tunnel, waves crashing behind them. Even thought the entrance into the tunnel is only a small step, to them it looks like they can barely reach it, the apprehension limiting their mobility, this simple step holds so much meaning to them. It could mean life or death depending on what Radburn decides. After they make the arduous step into the tunnel they start walking further into the depths of the darkness. Even thought they remember the directions to the hideouts door they find it challenging getting to it. The darkness is as unforgiving as it is all encompassing the tunnel, whenever they get to a wall they whisper in unison "Left one", "Left two", "Right three", "Left four". After the final left turn they are met with a small opening with either side with boxes and old sacks. An old rusting small metal door with a slot at the top stands at the far back, allowing some faint light past into the area the duo find themselves in. Afton stands tall, clears her throat, puts on the fa?ade of a brave face and slowly walks towards the door, Devin following closely behind. She knocks on the door loudly three times before stopping and putting her hands back by her side. They hear faint footsteps coming closer to the door from the inside and what sounds like something being dragged up to the door, the slit opens up and they are faced with the sight of a very young girls eyes. "What''s your names? who invited you, how do you know about this place?" she says injecting a hint of sass into her questions. Afton responds "I''m Afton" she leans to the side revealing Devin "this is Devin... we didn''t really get invited, we did some work for Radburn a few years ago" Before Afton can finish answering her questions the girl closes the slit and walks off. As they hear her footsteps fade into the distance they hear a louder voice from the inside and much larger steps walking up to the door, The door swings open, revealing Radburn standing in the doorway. He gestures with his arm, inviting them inside, and warmly says, "You are welcome here. Feel free to come in.". 3. RADBURN After a few moments Afton apprehensively accepts his invitation, walking past Radburn into a large spherical room with multiple other doors going in many other directions. She turns back after entering the room realising Devin hadn''t followed her inside, He is frozen where she left him, shaking. "Come here devin, its going to be fine" Afton says, holding her arm out to him. He tentatively grabs her arm and walks in. With a deliberate motion, Radburn closed the door behind them, the faint click of the lock sealing them within his mysterious domain. As he turned to face them, Devin and Afton found themselves captivated, their eyes drawn to the figure before them, the elusive legend, Radburn. His towering height commanded attention. Clad in an overcoat of deep velvety purple, he exuded an aura of cunning and intrigue. The rich hue of the coat was matched by the bold crimson of his buttoned up shirt. His hands, covered in sleek black gloves, moved with practiced elegance. A pair of smart black shoes, meticulously laced up and polished adorned his feet. Grounding his outfit with a touch of pragmatism, the contrasting brown trousers were a testament to his impeccable taste in style and practicality, giving him an air of someone who was equally comfortable navigating the highest echelons of society and the darkest corners of the city. His face bore the marks of a life well fought, etched with lines that spoke of hardships. His short, well kept, hazel hair was a testament to his practicality and no-nonsense approach. His strong jawline was accentuated by a faint but noticeable scar that starts on his left cheek reaching halfway down his neck. His deep set emerald eyes are framed by a set of long dark eyelashes and a subtle touch of dark red eye shadow that adds a hint of allure and intrigue to his piercing gaze. Radburn claps his hands suddenly then bends down to one knee to be at a similar height to the two "So... who have we got here? Cate told me you have done a job for me in the past. Can you give me some details? possibly jog my memory" "Three red moons ago one of our friends asked us to help you, you asked us to be the distraction during the play, we were the two that ran onto the stage" Afton says, stuttering slightly "I remember you two now, I gave you a page of rations each if I remember correctly." "y... yes you did" Afton says stuttering slightly, unsure if she should tell him they were stolen from them the same night. Radburn grasps both of their hands "so, I didn''t ask for any help today. What brings you to my door?" This content has been misappropriated from Royal Road; report any instances of this story if found elsewhere. Devin speaks up "We wouldn''t be here if you weren''t our last option" "what do you mean?" "I have heard what happens to the kids that get caught when working for you" Radburn lets go of their hands, stands, towering above them, clears his throat, deepens his voice and says "Do you plan on getting caught?". Bodies struck with fear the two respond almost in unison quietly saying "no" "We just want a place to sleep and more than two meals a week, we are willing to work for it" Radburn goes back to his normal tone of voice "I''m glad to hear it, three of my best went missing recently and I was looking for replacements. Follow me, ill bring you to the area you will sleep, unless you have any questions" They both shake their heads in silence and slowly follow him. He leads them past a door and down a dark dimly lit set of tunnels. The farther they go into the tunnels, the fewer lights occupy them. After a few minutes of walking they see a bright opening approaching. They reach the opening, it is similar to the one they first entered, although this one has multiple levels interconnected by stairs. The top two levels have sets of makeshift beds separated by makeshift walls made from barrels and dirty old bed sheets. On the bottom level three doors lead in different directions. One door is adjacent to an empty cell, appearing unused, while the other two doors show signs of heavy aging, suggesting frequent use. As the two stand in awe at the opening of the large room, Radburn begins walking up the stairs to the higher levels. Their eyes are drawn to the cell as they look around the room, Radburn notices their curiosity, chuckles and says "those who misbehave spend some time in there". The horrible idea fills their heads but they swiftly catch up to him and are brought to the far back left corner, passing many other children who are sleeping, some younger and some older than Afton and Devin. In this corner they find two beds half-made with a few pieces of cloths underneath them, along with what looks like keepsakes beside them. Radburn kicks one of the beds and says "the two that slept here have been missing for a while now, these beds are yours now". Mixed feelings of dread and joy fill the two as they gaze at the beds. Grateful for the roof over their heads, the simple luxury of having their own beds brings a sense of comfort they have never experienced. However, the way Radburn casually talks about kids going missing fills them with unease and second thoughts about their decision. "you should head to bed now; I''ll have a chat with you early tomorrow about your place here and how things work" Radburn says as he walks away, descending the staircase and heading into one of the doors. Both lie down in the beds, their minds racing with anticipation and apprehension for the talk tomorrow. The room is dimly lit, casting eerie shadows across the makeshift walls. Yet, amidst the uncertainty, a glimmer of hope emerges. They are no longer alone, they have each other in this mysterious place, and together, they will face whatever challenge lies ahead. 4. NIGHTMARE In the depths of Devin''s subconscious a nightmarish realm unfolded before him, a dark, unimaginable void filled with ever-moving shadows that seemed to lack any source of origin. The darkness consumed everything, and eerie motions danced around him, casting an unsettling atmosphere of uncertainty. Within this shadowy abyss, there was an eerie silence, only disturbed by the rapid thumping of his heart, echoing loudly in the void. As Devin ventured through the murky shadows, each step felt arduous, almost like some unseen force was holding him back. The shadows seemed to possess a life of their own, swirling around him like sinister apparitions, threatening to ensnare him within their enigmatic depths. Fear wrapped itself tightly around his heart, and an overwhelming sense of dread washed over him, making it difficult to find a way out. Amidst the chaotic movements of the shadows a figure materialized, a woman with an otherworldly aura. Her face remained obscured, yet an inexplicable familiarity resonated within Devin''s heart. She approached him with unnatural swiftness, her eyes locking onto his, burning with an intensity that sent shivers down his spine. Though he couldn''t recognize her, an undeniable connection seemed to exist between them. The woman spoke with a hushed whisper, "Devin, find Eja she will explain everything" Her words echoed through the darkness, gripping his mind with a sense of urgency. "Who... who is she?" He stuttered, struggling to complete a sentence under the intense fear he is faced with. The figure grasps his shoulders "She will answer everything once you find her", They pause for a moment looking behind them "My time is running out, she works in the Ripley Enamour. She''s about your age, Find her at ALL costs" "What is this" Before he could finish his question the woman fell back into the void, dissipated into the shadows, leaving him disoriented and confused. As Devin struggled to navigate through his thoughts the ever-shifting shadows begin closing in on him, fragmented visions and memories flickered before him, further blurring the line between reality and nightmare. He struggled to distinguish between the waking world and the twisted realm of his subconscious. Amidst the despair a glimmer of light emerged in the distance, a faint beacon of hope. Driven by a surge of determination, Devin pressed forward, drawn towards the light, yearning for an escape from the suffocating darkness. As he neared the light the shadows appeared to recoil, offering a fleeting moment of relief. Yet, the woman''s cryptic warning lingered in his mind, haunting him with an unsettling truth. Suddenly, Devin jolted awake, gasping for air. Still baffled with the encounter he just had he remembers the Ripley Enamor is the only producers of enamoured tools in Kolla. He''s heard rumours that Radburn owns a enamored tool that allows him to change his features at will. The few times he and Afton have walked past it they could only see towering walls of stone bricks and the large metal gate that leads into it. The one time he saw the large gates open was for a carriage baring a banner he didn''t recognise. He wonders how he''s going to get inside, find this Eja person and why he has to. He overheard that the workers live within the walls and leave very rarely. After collecting his thoughts he decides to wake up Afton and tell her about his encounter. He stretches and slowly gets out of his bed, makes his way to Afton''s bed and gently shakes her shoulders "Afton" he whispers "I had a really strange dream you need to hear about". Afton slowly stirred awake, blinked a few times. "what''s wrong Devin? are you okay" she asked, noticing the concern in his eyes. "I dreamt of this dark place, filled with swirling shadows" Devin began, taking a breath. "And then there was this woman, I didn''t recognize her, her face wasn''t all there but she seemed to know me. She told me to find someone named Eja. It felt so real, Afton". Afton listens attentively, her eyes fixed on his "Dreams can be strange, we cant explain them. Sometimes they play tricks on us". "I know, but something was off about it, it didn''t feel like a dream, it felt different," Devin insisted, his voice still tinged with unease. "I can''t help but wonder if there is some truth to it. I don''t know anyone called Eja". Stolen content warning: this tale belongs on Royal Road. Report any occurrences elsewhere. Afton took a moment to consider his words before offering a comforting smile. "Devin, we need to be careful. We''re in a tough spot and we are overwhelmed. But we can''t let fear control us". Devin nodded, understanding her point. The sense of urgency he felt in the dream was hard to ignore. "I know, but I can''t ignore this feeling. What if we find this Eja person? Maybe they could help us, the person in my dream said they work in the Enamor". Afton placed a reassuring hand on his shoulder. "If it puts your mind at ease we can keep an eye out for any Eja''s. But we have to stay focused on surviving and getting through each day". Devin appreciated what Afton was doing but he knew that the dream was more than it seemed to her. The mystery woman he saw knew who he was and somehow got into his dreams. He put on a brave face, smiled to Afton and said "I understand it was just a dream, I wont think about it anymore, could I sleep in your bed for the rest of the night?" Afton smiled and said "of course" the two huddled close and fell back to sleep for the remaining few hours of the night. Devin and Afton slowly stirred awake. They found themselves surrounded by a group of children, all slightly older than them, huddled together in hushed conversation. The children glanced at Devin and Afton, whispering among themselves before finally noticing the two newcomers were awake. One of the older children, a boy with dark, unruly hair approached them with a curious grin. "Well, look who''s finally awake" he said, eyeing Devin and Afton with a mix of amusement and interest. "I''m Jamie. These are the rest of the gang" he added, gesturing widely to the other kids. Devin introduced himself with Afton following after, trying to match Jamie''s friendly tone. The rest of the children nodded in acknowledgment, and a few exchanged knowing glances. It was clear they were curious about the new arrivals, this must not happen very often. "Hey, we heard from Cate Radburn brought you both in last night" a girl with freckles piped up. "What''d he want with you?" "We came to Radburn, were sick of how things were so we wanted a change" Afton says confidently. Jamie raised an eyebrow, clearly unconvinced. Before he could question them further one of the large metal doors in the room swung open, revealing Radburn standing in the doorway. He surveyed the gathered children with a stern and authoritative gaze. "Alright, listen up," Radburn''s voice carried a commanding presence across the room. "I need to speak with these two. The rest of you know what you have to do, no dillydallying" The children quickly dispersed to their beds, making them and pretending to be busy for the time being, leaving Devin and Afton standing before Radburn, feeling a mix of nerves and anticipation. Radburn motioned for them to follow him, and they did so obediently, walking through a dimly lit tunnel until they reached his private quarters, He pointed to a table and chairs in the corner saying "sit there, ill be with you in a moment, I hope you both slept well we have a busy day today". Radburn walks over to a messy cluttered table with a large mirror and begins doing his makeup. Devin and Afton exchange glances, unsure of how to respond but they both managed to nod. Radburn''s face softens slightly and he continued, "You''re both young, and I know this new place must be overwhelming for you, But here you have a chance to survive and thrive. There are rules you need to follow, and you must prove yourselves to be trustworthy." Afton speaks up saying "Well do whatever it takes to stay here, we wont let you down" Radburn nods approvingly, "Good, I believe you have potential here, but you need to be smart and resourceful. The streets of Kolla are not forgiving, and neither am I. But if you show loyalty I''ll make sure you have a permanent place here." Devin and Afton exchange glances once more, both understanding the weight of Radburn''s words. They knew they were in a dangerous city, and they have to make the best of the opportunity before them. Radburn turns back after finishing his makeup and sits with the two children, "I''ll speed up the introduction since you seem to have met some of the other strays already, Rule one of this place is Obey my orders without question, if you don''t follow this rule you will live to regret it" The two children discretely hold hands under the table after hearing the first rule. "Rule two, NO fighting here" Radburn raises his voice for the second rule, almost like it has been an issue in the past. "Rule three, No coming into my room without my permission under any circumstances. There are a few more, less important rules which the others will tell you about" He turns and walks back over to the messy table, opening it and taking out a large roll of paper. He then brings it to the two children, rolling it out to show a map of a building. "So, you both know what we do here, here is todays job, we are going to take you two and Jamie to a fighting ring and try to get away with a very valuable piece of jewellery" Radburn explains the rest of the details of his plan to them both. Telling them that the man always stands in the same spot to watch the fights and the watch they are looking for is kept in his right jacket pocket. 5. JOB Devin and Afton exchanged glances, their minds still processing the plans. With a subtle nod, they both turned back to Radburn, their resolve evident in their expressions. "Sounds like a plan," Afton remarked, her voice steady. "Devin can run very fast if that helps." Radburn''s chuckles. "Hmmm, that may come in handy. Tell Jamie when you see him," he replied sarcastically. Afton spoke up, her voice tingled with determination. "We know the plan, the time, and the location. We''re ready to do this, Radburn." Devin nodded in agreement, pushing aside his nerves. "We''ll give it our all" Radburn leaned back, studying the two of them intently. "Stay focused, trust your instincts, and most importantly, trust each other. Hesitation can be fatal. Stick to the plan, but be prepared to adapt if necessary." Afton and Devin nodded. They knew that Radburn''s advice came from a place of experience and survival. With a final nod Radburn stood up, his eyes never leaving theirs. "Good luck," he said, his voice firm. "You''ll need it out there. I''ll be nearby, watching, as we discussed." The two young strays take a deep breath, summoning their courage. They are about to embark on a dangerous path, but they know they have each other to rely on. They bid Radburn farewell and stepped out into the hall leading back to where they slept. They exit the hall into the open room, Jamie meeting them as they exit "Radburn said to tell you Devin can run very fast". "Why would he?" Jamie scoffs, "Never mind, lets get going" As Devin, Afton, and Jamie left the dimly lit confines of the old sewers the outside world greeted them with a stark contrast. The bustling noise of early morning Kolla streets filled their ears, the air heavy with the scent of street food, smog and the distant sounds of fisherman shouting down by the dock. The trio moved swiftly, trying to blend in with the crowd of people going about their daily lives. As they weaved through the busy docks Jamie led the way, navigating the labyrinthine streets with ease. He seems to know every shortcut and hidden alley, guiding Devin and Afton through the chaotic city like a seasoned navigator. The old warehouse where the fights are held loomed ahead, its a decaying relic of a bygone era, its windows boarded up and its brick walls barely standing. It seems like the perfect location for a clandestine gathering. The entrance was guarded by a large burly man with a stern expression. He surveyed each person who approached with a critical eye. Jamie, undaunted, confidently approaches the guard and exchanges a few hushed words. Whatever they said seemed to satisfy the guard, as he allowed the trio to pass without further inquiry. As they enter the warehouse they are hit by a cacophony of sounds and sights. The dimly lit interior was filled with the low hum of conversation, the clinking of glasses, and the smell of stale food. The air was thick with anticipation and excitement as the crowd eagerly awaited the upcoming fights. A makeshift arena was set up in the middle of the warehouse, surrounded by a mix of wooden crates and makeshift bleachers. The atmosphere was electric and Devin could feel the tension in the air. The fighters faces are masked by shadows as they prepare for their matches in the corners of the room. This novel is published on a different platform. Support the original author by finding the official source. Devin and Afton exchanged glances, their eyes conveying a mix of nervousness and resolve. They are stepping into a world far different from their own, they had made their choice are both determined to see it through. As they took their places among the crowd, waiting for the right moment to put their plan into action Devin couldn''t help but worry. His mind flooded with the idea of failure, what if they were caught?, what would happen to them both?. He began to hyperventilate and panic before sitting down trying to calm himself and not attract any unnecessary attention. The atmosphere inside the old warehouse grew more electric as the fights began. The crowd''s excitement reached a crescendo with each clash of fists and roar of victory. Devin and Afton keep their eyes peeled for the opportune moment to execute the plan. Afton caught sight of the man they were after, standing near the makeshift arena and talking to two other men. She gestured to Devin and Jamie, indicating that the man was in position and she was going to go for it. With adrenaline coursing through her veins, she stealthily made her way through the crowd, blending in as she moved closer to her target. Her heart pounded in her chest, but she reminded herself to stay focused, they wouldn''t get a better opportunity than the one presented to her now. However, just as Afton started to make her move towards the man, his sharp eyes caught her movement. He turned his head and locked eyes with her, a glint of suspicion in his gaze. Panic surged through Afton, she froze, paralyzed by the man''s daunting stare. Seeing Afton in danger of being caught, Jamie acts swiftly. He walks up to the man, gliding through the crowd, readying himself then lunging at the man, aiming a swift and well aimed punch. The sudden attack caught the man off guard, he stumbled backwards, clutching his jaw in pain. Afton darts towards the man and reaches into his pocket, hoping for the watch. "GOT IT" she screams towards Jamie, grasping it in her hand as tight as she can. The crowd erupted into chaos as the fight spilled beyond Jamie and the man. People scrambling to get out of the way, creating a chaotic diversion. As the trio are moving through the chaos towards the exit they notice the man standing back up, patting his pockets noticing the watch is gone. They hear a gravely voice shouting "FIND THOSE KIDS". Some of the men near the kids stop fighting after recognising the voice, noticing them. The trio pause, Jamie and Devin raise their hands in a peaceful display, Afton hides hers behind her back. The five men who stopped fighting dashed at the kids trying to restrain them, all three of them dodge the attempts and race towards the exit, being pursuit. They get past the crowd gathering at the entrance, stopping for a brief moment until Jamie goes down an alley, Afton and Devin following closely behind. As the trio raced through the narrow alleyways their hearts pounded in their chests, adrenaline driving them forward. Their pursuers were relentless, gaining ground with each passing moment. Jamie skilfully led the way, taking sharp turns and leaping over obstacles with impressive agility. As the odds appeared to stack against them, a mysterious figure emerged into the alley. Cloaked in tattered garments and wearing a wide-brimmed hat, they crossed paths with the trio, revealing a face with a strong jawline, a pointy nose and intense dark brown eyes. With impressive swiftness and precision, the figure expertly tripped one of the pursuers, sending him sprawling to the ground. The sudden obstacle disrupted the momentum of the others, granting the trio a precious moment to increase their distance from them. Without turning back Afton, Devin, and Jamie press on, following a path that led them further away from their pursuers. They can''t believe their luck, someone appeared just in time to lend them a hand. With their pursuers now far behind them, they continued on, making their way to the predetermined safe spot where they know Radburn would eventually meet them. 6. REVEAL Devin''s heart pounded in his chest as they ran through the narrow alleys and quiet streets of Kolla. The adrenaline that had fuelled them during their escape now began to wane, replaced by a burning ache in their legs and lungs. Afton''s breath came out in short, laboured gasps, and Devin could feel his own muscles protesting with each step he took. Jamie, though trying to hide it, was not faring much better. As they finally reached the meeting point at the edge of Kolla, they collapsed against a rough brick wall, their chests heaving with exhaustion. Their faces were flushed, and their clothes clung to their bodies, drenched in sweat. The pain of their escape was evident on their faces, but they knew they couldn''t afford to rest for long. Radburn appeared shortly after, his tall imposing figure casting a shadow over them as he approached. His normally composed demeanour was replaced by a fiery anger that radiated from his every movement. His emerald eyes bore into the trio. Without a word, he approached Jamie, grabbing him by the scruff of his shirt and lifting him up to his feet shoving him against the wall. Jamie struggled but Radburn''s grip was tight and unforgiving. Afton and Devin both stood up quickly, afraid for their own wellbeing. "What were you thinking?" Radburn shouted, his voice seeming to burst from his mouth. "Starting a fight in the middle of the job? Do you have any idea what kind of danger you put us all in?" he pauses for a moment, thinking... "What if they were able to follow you, if I hadn''t stepped in you would have been caught". The three pause, wondering when he had a chance to help them, none of them can recall seeing Radburn. Devin apprehensive but sure of his words "You weren''t there, we escaped on our own" he raises his voice "we got the watch, you did nothing". Radburn releases Jamie from his grasp causing him to collapse to his knees. His anger barely contained, he slowly advances towards Devin. With deliberate measured movements he reaches into his coat pocket and retrieves a small, intricately designed ring. The ring is adorned with numerous exquisitely detailed faces etched into its surface. Each face possessed its own unique expression, they seem to be following Devin''s face as Radburn approached him. You might be reading a pirated copy. Look for the official release to support the author. With an effortless slide, Radburn slipped the ring onto his finger, the ring is noticeably too large for his gaunt digits. He releases the ring with his other hand and a remarkable transformation begins, the ring''s size shifts with a fluid grace, moulding itself perfectly to fit his slender finger. Remarkably the intricate faces and bands on the ring remained unchanged, appearing as if it had always been the right size for Radburn, without a single distortion. The three children gaze in astonishment as Radburn''s face undergoes a remarkable transformation. Audible cracks and shifting bones alter the positions of his mouth, eyes, nose, chin, and ears. Radburn now in agony, clutches his face and contorts in pain, the area is filled with the sounds of his muted suffering. Suddenly, an eerie silence descended. Radburn stood up straight, removing his hands from his face, revealing that he had become someone else entirely. Before the group stood a woman, her fair eyebrows arched in surprise, she possessed striking bright blue eyes that shimmered with an unusual intensity, a small, delicate mouth, and an elegant nose. Her new face was a stark contrast to Radburn''s former visage. The three children backed up a few steps in shock as Radburn unveiled her new face, Devin rattling his brain for any resemblance of an explanation "This isn''t possible, who are you?" his voice trembled. The other two stood flabbergasted, silently trying to accept what they just saw. "This is the real me, when I''m not wearing the ring I can change my appearance to any I wish. The ring binds me back to my original face. The man who bought you time in the alleyway was me, I stopped the men following you". A wave of dread hit the three confused children riddled with questions they are too afraid to ask. They stand in silence for a few moments before Jamie speaks up "Thankyou for your help, we needed it", "Of course you did, I saw how badly the job went. You didn''t follow the plan and almost got caught" Radburn replies in a sarcastic tone butting in not letting Jamie finish. Blaire thinks about speaking up because she didn''t see Radburn in the building at the time of the job but thinks better of it after realising Radburn could have been anywhere in that room and they wouldn''t have known. "You two, get out of here. I''ll explain more later tonight. Jamie, I have some more choice words for you before I let you go anywhere," Radburn says, gesturing for Blaire and Devin to leave the area. They obey Radburn''s directive and leave the area. As they move away they can hear Radburn''s new feminine voice shouting at Jamie, though they can''t quite make out the words. Nonetheless they''re relieved it''s not them left behind. 7. RETURN Heads hung in shame which they don''t quite understand, Devin and Afton wondered back to the sewer in a random convoluted path to avoid anyone following them to their new home. Radburn explained in the plan that some rival groups may try to find out the location of their sewer home so they should avoid people and try to blend in where needed, not standing out. They descend the wet, slippery stone staircase with cautious steps, being awfully aware of every steps placement to assure sure they didn''t fall into the water besides them. The aggressive waves bashing against the stone walls underneath them, a constant reminder of the damp surroundings. As they reach the bottom of the staircase the graffitied tunnel greets them just as it did the night before. Taking a few steps inside the tunnel, where the feeble glow of the outside world gives way to shadow, they pause. The air feels cooler here, and a subtle sense of anticipation hangs in the salty air. Silence stretches, and they exchange glances, ensuring the absence of any unwanted company that may have followed them there. A few minutes pass, they both agree its a necessary pause to confirm they remain untracked. Satisfied that they are alone, they turn, and with a shared understanding venture deeper into the labyrinth of damp tunnels. When Afton spots the last corner before they reach the door she speaks up, breaking the silence the two have walked home with "We have to talk about what just happened before we go back inside, we don''t know who knows her secret, his secret? RADBURNS secret". Afton nods in agreement, seeming incredibly unsettled by Afton shouting Radburn''s name "I, I agree but I don''t know how we should handle this" They both pause, debating what to say, Afton opening her mouth over and over again unsure how to start this confusing and outright nonsensical conversation. "I don''t think we should bring the whole transformation thing up to anyone, if we aren''t supposed to tell anyone I don''t want to face the punishment" Devin leans back against the wall debating the situation "I think I agree but if Jamie asks us, I want to talk about what we saw. I''m not sure how long I can hold this in." The unspoken agreement passed between Afton and Devin like a secret handshake, a silent understanding etched in their shared glances. Nodding in unison they approached the door, their knuckles drumming out a gentle rhythm on its surface. The doors slit opened, revealing Cate''s inquisitive eyes. "Where are Radburn and Jamie?" she asked, a blend of curiosity and concern in her voice. Afton and Devin, sharing an uncertain look shrugged, uttering a simultaneous, "Don''t know". Cate, observing them through the narrow opening, closes the viewing slit after a moment. The metallic click of the lock followed and with a decisive motion, she swung the door wide open using both hands. Stepping into the room they are greeted by the refreshing scent of soap and water, a notable departure from the lingering staleness of the previous times they were there. The atmosphere was charged with the energy of industrious children, each one diligently engaged in the task of scrubbing floors, brushing surfaces, and generally cleaning up the environment. This concerted effort had not only cleaned the physical environment but had seemingly shifted its entire aura of the hub. What was once a sombre and dull environment now radiated with brightness. Stolen story; please report. Afton and Devin assisted Cate in closing the door, leaving her to manage her responsibilities. They weaved through the bustling hall encountering a few children committed to cleaning the area. Among them was a surprising figure, a tall brown-haired girl holding a brush. Afton and Devin exchanged glances of mutual surprise, struck by the girl''s height which seemed odd with her apparent age. Ascending the staircase, they made their way to the familiar spot where their beds awaited. As they settled into their seats, a collective sigh of relief escaped them offering a brief respite from the uncertainties that had marked their past 24 hours. Seated on their beds the weight of the past day settled upon them. The worn mattress beneath them seemed to absorb the echoes of the chaotic escapade they have just experienced. Thoughts about Jamie lingered in the air, a tangible uncertainty enveloped them. What fate awaited their impulsive comrade? the unanswered questions haunted them. They mull over the enigma that is Radburn, the lines between man and woman blurred in their perception. The image of Radburn transforming into a woman lingered, leaving them to question the nature of the person who has guided them through the shadows. In the midst of this contemplation they found themselves caught in a delicate balance between curiosity and apprehension, pondering the layers of complexity that defined the world they had willingly stepped into. A few hours pass with nothing of note happening, the late afternoon turns to evening. A thunderous BANG echoed throughout the sewer hub as the door swung open aggressively, its metal handle colliding with the cold stone wall beside it. The impact sent reverberations through the rest of the door, causing it to shake. Oddly, most of the children seemed unfazed, either deliberately ignoring the disruptive sound or too petrified to acknowledge it. It was as though this disruptive entrance was a routine occurrence and the children knew better than to react. Afton and Devin, however couldn''t ignore the disturbance. They leaned forward out of their bed, kneeling next to the railing beside them, their eyes fixed on the open floor where Radburn stood. Nearby a group of older children sat around a small wooden table engrossed in a card game. As Radburn forcefully closed the door with another resounding slam, the cards on the table shook, yet none of the children playing batted an eyelid. Radburn turned away from the door, revealing his face to both Devin and Afton. To their surprise, he was a man again. The sudden transformation left them questioning what they thought they had witnessed. Was it all a misunderstanding? Perhaps they hadn''t seen what they thought they had seen. As Radburn''s eyes sweep across the room, he spots Afton and Devin peering over the railing. A ominous grin stretches across his face, and in that moment, the eerie stillness is broken. The two children, catching the gleam in Radburn''s eyes immediately duck, cowering from the unsettling and unpredictable nature of the enigmatic man. They shook... not entirely sure what move to make next. 8. SILENCE The echo of Radburn''s footsteps fill the hall as he nonchalantly strides toward his chambers, showing no sign of disruption, he never once slows his pace. The two youngsters remain seated by the cold stone railing, shaken to their souls, marvelling at his ability to appear untouched by the events of just a few hours ago. Where is Jamie? Who is Radburn? Countless maddening questions reverberate in their minds, intensifying their panic and confusion. They hear the door open, then swiftly close moments later. Radburn leaving the hub causes the air to decompress, and the environment brightens slightly, as if a cloud of shadows had departed. The sounds of his echoey footsteps fade out of earshot as he goes deeper down the tunnel into his quarters. Devin and Afton, stirred by the departure slowly rise, their hands finding support on the worn railing. The children at the card table acknowledge them with a knowing nod before returning to their game. Silently, the two retreat to their sunken, rickety beds. Without exchanging another word, they succumb to another hour of contemplation before the weight of the day finally lulls them into a restless sleep. The flickering light of a solitary lantern casts eerie shadows on the damp walls of the sewer hub. Devin lies still in his rickety bed, the day''s events replaying in his mind like a haunting reel. He''s afraid to surrender to sleep for fear of the nightmares that may visit him again. Every creak, every distant sound, sends shivers down his spine. The ambient echoes of the sewer, instead of providing a rhythm of comfort, amplify his anxiety. He tosses and turns, trying to ward off the encroaching nightmares, but it''s a losing battle. As the night wears on Devin''s consciousness drifts into a fitful slumber. Yet, his mind refuses to grant him solace. Nightmares as vivid as they are terrifying, infiltrate his dreamscape. He''s caught in a distorted reality where shadowy figures morph into menacing creatures, echoes transforming into haunting whispers. The horrors of the night interwound with the echoes of Radburn''s transformations, creating a nightmarish symphony that holds Devin in its thrall. Suddenly, Devin jolts awake with his heart pounding in his chest. Cold sweat beads on his forehead as he gasps for breath, disoriented and shaken by the remnants of his haunting dreams. The dim light of the lantern reveals the damp walls of the sewer around him, and for a moment he''s unsure if he''s truly escaped the clutches of the nightmares or if the twisted reality of his dreams still lingers. The sewer hub remains quiet, the echoes of Radburn''s earlier departure replaced by an eerie stillness that leaves Devin grappling with the unsettling residue of his troubled sleep. He realizes, through the pervasive silence and the dim glow of the lanterns in the room, that only a few hours have passed, everyone else remains in the fickle embrace of sleep. The individuals playing cards earlier have shifted from their earlier positions, and Cate isn''t stationed at the door, the entire hub is submerged in an eerie silence. Carefully, he sits up, manoeuvring with utmost caution to avoid any disturbances that might rouse his slumbering companions. After rubbing the traces of sleep from his eyes and indulging in a satisfying stretch, he debates taking a stroll outside to help him clear his head. The events of the past day have left him fatigued and unsure of his next move. While he yearns for a peaceful night''s rest, he''s aware that such a thing remains unreachable. Unauthorized use of content: if you find this story on Amazon, report the violation. Devin manoeuvres out of his bed with the utmost care, aiming to silence the creaky protests of the worn mattress. He methodically shifts his weight to one foot, gradually rising to a standing position. Surveying the room to ensure his actions remain unnoticed, he moves cautiously, avoiding contact with other beds and personal belongings, careful not to disturb the silence of the sleeping hub. Having secured his footing, Devin descends the cold stone staircase with deliberate steps, each one calculated to minimize noise. Upon reaching the bottom of the staircase he casts a final glance around, confirming the preservation of the peaceful slumber enveloping the hub. Approaching the exit door, Devin glances at the mechanism then unlocks it, the mechanism yielding to his touch. As he steps outside into the stillness of the sewer tunnels, he takes a moment to relock the door, leaving behind the sleeping hub in a state of serene repose. Ensuring a quiet closure behind him with a satisfying clink as the lock engaged. A silent hope lingered in his thoughts "Hopefully, no one will realize I''m gone now." The chilly air, laden with the tang of salt from the outside wind and water, greeted him abruptly, jolting him awake. A strong gust forced him to shield his face, the wind cunningly finding its way through the tunnels. After a moment to regain his composure he recalled the instructions for navigating the tunnels backward and set out into the expansive darkness, his destination, the entrance to the tunnels. Emerging from the tunnel, he ascends the damp stone staircase, the wetness beneath his feet reminding him of the ever-present moisture in the air. At the top he surveyed the surroundings, opting to make his way towards the expansive docks that stretched far into the water. The sun, still veiled behind the crystal mountains across the water cast a mesmerizing rainbow sheen on the water and a small section of the docks. Passing by workers who were beginning their day, Devin strolled toward the dock''s end, passing a series of small warehouses and fishing boats returning after a night on the rainbow sea. He greeted the fishermen and women with waves, receiving friendly smiles in return. Some even waved back, but Devin, still unfamiliar with this part of the city, remained uncertain about the people around him. Reaching the end of the dock Devin discovered a secluded spot at its very edge, seemingly tailor-made for quiet contemplation. Utilizing a couple of empty boxes positioning them behind himself, he fashioned a makeshift backrest, allowing him to lean back comfortably. Seated at the edge, he dangled his legs above the mesmerizing rainbow tides, the vibrant water reflecting on the bottom of the dock. 9. Ailbhe Melodies filled Ailbhe¡¯s room as she woke from a deep sleep. Leaning up from her bed, she found her mother sitting at the corner, playing the Heliah¡ªthe song of their people¡ªon her signature flute. Her mother enjoyed playing her flute in the early mornings for both Ailbhe and her father. She had been playing in preparation for the upcoming festival that was being held by the people of Holedark to celebrate the annual Red Moon. The rhythmic sounds that escaped the flute completely captured the focus of anyone within earshot, compelling them to concentrate on the music. Her mastery of the instrument had earned her immense fame and immunity from the city''s conscription, which many young adults feared. The famed Cleo of Holedark was a renowned name throughout the land for her musical prowess and her ability to command her instrument to create perfect lullabies. Ailbhe stayed silent, leaning halfway up in her bed and clenching the blanket to her body. After a short moment, she forced herself out of bed, threw her legs off the side, and stood up. Raising her arms, she leaned backward and stretched, her legs and back cracking. Cleo winced at the sound of the cracks and stopped playing her flute. "Morning, sleepyhead. It¡¯s almost halfway through the day. Your father has already been out of the house for a few hours. He¡¯s gone out with a bunch of hunters to try to track down those wee lads who didn''t come back home after going out two nights ago." Ailbhe¡¯s legs felt numb, and her heart skipped a beat. She knew where her father was headed and what it meant. She put her arm against the wall to steady herself, fearing she might collapse. Cleo, putting down her flute, stood up with a worried expression and stepped toward Ailbhe to help her if she fell. From a young age, the children of Holedark were told to stay away from the dangers of the north river crossing. Stories of children disappearing after venturing past the river were told to naughty children who ventured too close to the border. Ailbhe knew the dangers of the crossing and recognized the danger her father had put himself in by going out to find those lost boys. She knew her father also knew the dangers and couldn''t comprehend why he would put himself in such an awful situation. She stood upright, grounding herself, gathering her thoughts, then walked over to her clothes and dressed in her usual attire: a fitted, earth-toned wool tunic belted at the waist, loose linen trousers tucked into knee-high, well-worn leather boots. She slipped on her fingerless leather gloves, tied her hair back in a loose braid, and fastened a carved stone pendant around her neck, ready to face the day. Leaving the room, she found her mother who had left the room as she started dressing standing and leaning against the wall of the kitchen. ¡°I know what you''re thinking. You haven''t said a word yet since getting out of bed, and I know why.¡± She paused and sighed, looking down at the floor in frustration. ¡°You want to go help him, don''t you...?¡± Taken from Royal Road, this narrative should be reported if found on Amazon. Standing confidently, Ailbhe furrowed her brow, crossed her arms, and bellowed, ¡°He¡¯s not coming home if he stays out there. Those boys who went missing are a lost cause, and Dad shouldn''t die because they wandered off.¡± She wiped away a tear beginning to form and pushed past her mother, who was about to respond, and left the building. Ailbhe shut the door firmly behind her, stepping onto the narrow street. She weaved her way past the morning crowd, her movements quick and purposeful. The street was alive with activity, vendors calling out their wares, children playing and neighbours exchanging gossip. As she passed a gathering of people at one of the town''s wells, she overheard fragments of heated conversation. ¡°The well''s dry again!¡± one older sounding woman exclaimed angrily. ¡°It¡¯s that damn cavern ceiling. More sun gets in now, evaporating the water faster than we can draw it.¡± Another man nodded; his face grim. ¡°Ever since that crack opened up, it¡¯s like the city¡¯s been baking in an oven. More light, yes, but less water. Something needs to change¡± The conversation about the recent changes to the cavern''s ceiling brought a vivid memory to Ailbhe''s mind. She had been out shopping with her father in the market when suddenly, a bunch of debris fell from above them onto a nearby stall. The salesperson inside it was killed instantly, the area plunged into panic. The marketplace, usually dim and cool, was more brightly lit than Ailbhe had ever seen it because of the new hole in the roof. The chaos and fear that day had left a lasting impression on her, a stark reminder of the precariousness of their subterranean home. Determined, she continued on her way, her thoughts a turbulent mix of worry for her father and the pressing issues facing her home. She soon arrived at the house of her friend, Evie, who lived directly beneath the new hole in the cavern ceiling. Evie was a loner, known to keep to herself and rarely seen in the company of others. Ailbhe was her only close friend, a bond formed in their early childhood that had withstood the test of time. As Ailbhe approached the modest dwelling, she noticed how the increased sunlight had transformed the area. Where once darkness cloaked the home in a perpetual twilight, now beams of light illuminated the space, casting long, sharp shadows. She knocked on the door and waited. Evie answered, her pale face showing surprise at the visit. "Ailbhe," she said softly, stepping aside to let her friend in. Inside, the house was sparsely furnished, with only the essentials visible. "I heard about your father," Evie continued, her voice filled with concern. "Is there anything I can do to help?" Ailbhe shook her head, appreciating the offer but knowing the risks involved. "I just needed to see you," she said, her voice trembling slightly. "This whole situation is tearing me apart, and with the city facing so many issues, I don¡¯t know what to do." Evie nodded, understanding Ailbhe''s troubles. She led her friend to a small wooden table where they sat in the brightened room, the sunlight streaming in from above casting a warm glow over them. "We''ll figure it out," Evie assured, placing a comforting hand on Ailbhe''s arm. "You¡¯re not alone in this. Whatever happens, I''m sure we will figure it out." Ailbhe smiled weakly, comforted by her friend''s support. For a moment, she allowed herself to forget the looming dangers facing her father and just be present, grateful for Evie. 10. Elara If you encounter this story on Amazon, note that it''s taken without permission from the author. Report it. 11. Worry Did you know this story is from Royal Road? Read the official version for free and support the author. 12. Cabin Support the author by searching for the original publication of this novel.