《The Girl With The Crimson Eyes》


 Dear Reader

    I''d like to thank you for your interest in my first novel, The Girl With The Crimson Eyes. This story has been on a long hiatus, and in that time, it has gone through multiple edits too.


    The version I''m publishing now is the remastered and (possibly) final version of TGWTCE. As such, I''ll be updating daily, resuming where the story left off before being unpublished.


    I apologize to my loyal readers for the long absence but I needed to take a long break due to personal reasons. However, I''m back and ready to finish this novel once and for all.


    Thank you very much for your support~<3


    This book''s true home is on another platform. Check it out there for the real experience.


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    ~Instagram~


    https://www.instagram.com/crysomlm/


    ~Discord~


    https://discord.gg/cJGM5ZY2dW


    ~The Published Version of my Novel~


    https://www.royalroad.com/amazon/B09QJT84SX


    ~*~*~*~

 1: Autumn Leaves

    Remnya


    A soft drizzle caressed the bruises on Remnya''s pale face, numbing the pain as she climbed to the highest branch of an old oak. The spot had a privileged view of the hazy city beyond the walls of the orphanage. They weren''t allowed to leave, but dreaming was free and helped her to forget the punishments.


    She curled up, allowing herself to get lost in the mysterious landscape. Droplets soaked her long black hair, where two tiny horns grew like thorns on a rose, a testament to her particular nature. Perhaps, that was the reason they had forced her to wear that device around her neck. A weird collar that emitted an obnoxious beep at night, interrupting her nightmares.


    Why was she the only one wearing it? That incident hadn''t only been her fault.


    In her thirteen years of life, there had never been time for weakness. The survival of the fittest was the norm in that prison they called home, an ancient building with decaying walls looming over a large front yard where the orphans drowned their misery every afternoon.


    Breaking the rules was a great way to feel alive, but the caregivers showed no mercy to problematic kids. Discipline meant pain and scars, a reminder of what not to do.


    At least her bruises healed quickly.


    The sound of feet splashing the wet soil brought Remnya back to reality. Beneath her, she saw her friend, Zeo, holding a bag in his hands. She eased herself to a lower branch and jumped off the tree, landing smoothly like a cat.


    "Why are you here alone, Rem?" Zeo asked, wiping his thick-rimmed glasses with his white shirt.


    "I wanted to see the city towers, but it''s too foggy today." Remnya shrugged and brushed two strands of wet hair sticking to her face. "What''s that?"


    "Oh, this is for you." Zeo drew a lunch box from his bag and handed it to her. "You haven''t eaten yet, have you?"


    "Thanks." Remnya rushed to open the box and found a chicken leg dipped in mashed potatoes. The caregivers had punished her without food for two days, but Zeo always found a way to receive an extra meal from the kitchen, where he worked.


    Her friend smiled, his cheeks turning pink. Zeo was one year older than Remnya, but his delicate face and malnourished body made him appear younger. He had long, pointy ears and messy hair that fell over his green eyes.


    "Let''s go back inside. It''s getting cold." Remnya closed the box and motioned for Zeo to follow her. He rushed after her, trying to keep up with her long and fast legs.


    They crossed the front yard, passing by a wooden shelter where the older kids gathered every afternoon; faceless orphans, who saw her differences as a crime and always reminded Remnya she didn''t belong there.


    Focusing on the void of her mind, Remnya sped up her pace, trying to ignore the judgemental eyes locked on her. However, the nasty murmurs had already started.


    "Horned witch," someone whispered.


    Remnya clenched her fists and shot a poisonous glance from the corner of her eyes, yet she continued.


    "Such a nice couple of freaks," a girl, called Gina, sneered, followed by the laughter of her friends. She was her roommate, and such comments had become routine.


    Remnya halted, slamming her feet on a pond of brown waters, and turned to them with a glare, heat building up in her chest. The girls exchanged scornful looks and gossiped. They always talked behind her back but never dared to confront her directly.


    "She''s so ugly, she doesn''t even look like a girl."


    The high-pitched laughter from the group echoed in her head, over and over. Like waves of unjustified hatred, they cut her skin.


    The chain holding her back snapped, and as if a demon had possessed her body, Remnya began to walk toward them.


    But Zeo grabbed her arm.


    She looked at him, her teeth gritting. "Let me go." Her voice sliced the rain.


    "Rem . . . " Zeo shook his head, his lips trembling. "They''re not worth it. I don''t want you to get in trouble again, please." The last time she had fought, her roommate had ended up in the infirmary, but Remnya was locked in the basement for one week, not without a previous beating from the caregivers.


    She stared into Zeo''s tender eyes for a moment, and the demon in her chest seemed to calm down.


    Taking a deep breath, Remnya swallowed her anger. He was right, her wounds were still fresh, and her time in the orphanage was coming to an end. It wasn''t worth it. She forced her ears not to hear and strode toward the building while a fire burned her insides, threatening to explode through her mouth and fists.


    As usual, Zeo tried to distract her, and from his bag, he grabbed a book. Remnya was allergic to reading, but her friend always bugged her with new interesting facts about the world.


    "I found this at the library," Zeo said, displaying the cover of his new book. It read The Fourteen Wonders Of Nature in faded letters. "I was learning about the Nephilims." He looked away, embarrassed by his statement.


    "Nephilims? That weird thing again!" Remnya scowled at him. She hated him reading about the Nephilims. Everyone knew the last one had disappeared during the Blood War; the powerful creatures who protected Earth and brought peace thirteen years ago. Now only a few hybrids remained, the offspring of Nephilims and humans.


    Zeo claimed she was one because of her horns and tail. Her tail was long and thin, with an arrow-shaped tip she always tried to hide. Remnya wished she didn''t have such weird things on her body. Though, Zeo insisted there was nothing wrong with her.


    None of it mattered. All Remnya knew was that she was different, a freak in everyone''s eyes. Her unique ability was to get in trouble and get beaten for it. If anything, being a Nephilim was a curse.


    They headed to the dorms through the main corridor. Windows on the left and drawings glued to the wall on the right. Visitors usually sat there to watch the kids playing in the yard and then picked one like a puppy. The scent of damp lingered in every corner, accompanied by cobwebs swaying around pale lights.


    "I am making a going-away present for you," Zeo whispered, hiding his face.


    "Really? What is it?" Remnya''s eyes shone, forgetting her anger for a moment.


    "It''s a surprise." He giggled


    Remnya smiled and patted her friend''s back. "I guess you were right, after all."


    "About what?"


    "If I kicked Gina''s face out there, we wouldn''t be able to spend our last days together," she murmured, and the spark of joy in her quickly faded away.


    Silence.


    Zeo dropped his gaze and rubbed his hands together. "When are you leaving?"


    "I don''t know, but the old hag said soon." Remnya glanced at his downcast eyes and swallowed. Mixed feelings tangled around her heart. Remnya was glad because she would finally have a family, but leaving her friend behind would be the hardest part.


    This content has been unlawfully taken from Royal Road; report any instances of this story if found elsewhere.


    "You need to learn how to defend yourself before I leave!" She raised her fist.


    "I know, Rem, I know . . . " Zeo sighed. All he wanted was to read and learn in peace. Instead, he was the target of cruel jokes and the boys'' punching bag. "Wish I didn''t have these ugly things." He tugged his ears.


    "I think they''re cute." Remnya smirked. "Anglish ears, was it?"


    Zeo stifled a chuckle. He had shown Remnya an old book that narrated the story of the Anglishes, an ancient race from far away. They concluded Zeo looked like them, except they were strong and brave, traits he considered the opposite of his own. If Nephilims were a rare wonder, Anglishes were the holy grail of evolution. But unlike Nephilims, who faded out as they mixed with humans, Anglishes had been exterminated long ago.


    They sat on a humid bench in the courtyard, separating boys'' and girls'' dorms.


    Remnya''s stomach growled as she opened her lunch box, but before she could take a bite, Zeo jumped from his seat and put his hands on his head. "I forgot my book in the kitchen!"


    Remnya put her lunch box on the bench. "Let''s go for it."


    "Don''t worry, Rem." Zeo smiled and gestured at her to stay in her seat. "I''ll go for it myself and be back before you know it." Before she could reply, he dashed into the corridor. His shoes echoed against the tiles until they faded in the distance.


    *¡ã*¡ã*


    Remnya raised an eyebrow, wondering if he was hiding something, but preferred to trust his word. She grabbed her plastic tableware, eager to try the food, and slowly took the first bite.


    Smiling, she savored it, enjoying every ounce of flavor, knowing how lucky she was to have at least one meal a day, unlike other orphans, who had to fight for a plate of food. If it weren''t for Zeo, she would be in the same situation.


    Remnya observed the younger kids playing in the courtyard. They rarely made fun of her horns and tail, so she tolerated them and even laughed at their antics.


    As the minutes passed, the drizzle turned into a shower that punished the ancient structures of the orphanage and flooded the floors. The kids disappeared, seeking shelter, and Remnya finished her meal, wondering why Zeo hadn''t returned.


    She waited by the corridor, leaning against the wall to avoid the spray of water sprinkling from the roofs. The autumn rain had always been unpredictable.


    In the distance, she spotted a little girl running in her direction with tears in her eyes.


    Remnya called out to her, "Amy! What''s wrong?"


    "Zeo is in trouble!" The little girl sniffled.


    Her blood froze. "Where is he?"


    "The backyard!"


    Silence.


    "I''ll take care of it," Remnya said, wiping the tears off Amy''s cheeks and squeezing her soaked body tightly between her arms. "You go back to your room and change your clothes, okay?"


    Amy nodded, sobbing, and then Remnya rushed toward the scene.


    Remnya sprinted through the corridors, dodging kids and caregivers in her path. She kicked the back door and bolted outside. Her worn sneakers and white socks turned brown as she hopped over puddles of mud. Her heart raced at the thought of what lay ahead, but her legs moved on their own.


    Under the branches of an old maple, Remnya spotted her friend.


    Zeo lay on the ground next to a pile of debris and trash, surrounded by three boys. His glasses and his book lay buried in the mud, and blood spilled on his white shirt.


    A menacing shadow loomed over her friend. She recognized him, Liam. A tall boy whose face reminded Remnya of an angry rat.


    "Get up!" Liam yelled, burying his foot in Zeo''s back.


    Trembling, Zeo placed his hands on the moist soil and tried to sit up, but before he could regain balance, a fist smashed against his face, sending his head like a stone to the ground.


    Everyone laughed as he bit the dirt.


    Remnya clenched her fists and sneaked behind a dead trunk, fury burning her insides. She recalled her last encounter with them, the night they had locked her in the bathroom and tried to force her to kiss a boy.


    She glanced at two mossy rocks dug into the soil. They were huge.


    Liam grabbed Zeo by the collar of his torn shirt, forcing him to stand, and pushed him against the tree. Zeo''s green eyes glistened with tears.


    "Butter! Pull his pants down," Liam ordered an overweight kid who followed him everywhere.


    Butter walked forward, making Zeo flinch and bump his head on the tree.


    "No, please, don''t!" He cried while Butter yanked his belt. Instinctively, Zeo smacked Butter''s fat hands, trying to keep his arms off him.


    The resistance was brief. A punch in the stomach shattered Zeo''s will to fight. He writhed in pain and let out a muffled squeal.


    "Shut up!" Liam grunted, gripping his throat. "Santi, hold his hands!" he commanded his other friend, who watched with discomfort.


    "Isn''t this too much?" Santi asked, grimacing at Zeo''s sobbing. "He''s bleeding. The old hag is gonna get mad at us!"


    "The old hag doesn''t care." Liam sniggered. "Do it! It''ll be fun."


    "He''s a coward too," Butter said, slapping Zeo''s hands away. Zeo froze, afraid of receiving more punches, and allowed him to undo his belt.


    A loud thump resounded throughout the yard, and suddenly Butter''s hands were paralyzed.


    His eyes turned white, and his smirk faded. He sprawled over Liam, forcing him to release Zeo, and dropped to the ground like a bag of cement.


    Liam noticed the bleeding wound on his nape and a rock next to him. His eyes widened, scanning his surroundings until he spotted the culprit standing a few meters away.


    "Leave him alone, stupid suckers!" Remnya yelled, drawing back her arm to throw another rock.


    "The horned witch!" Liam roared.


    "Go away, or I''ll open your head too, rat-faced jerk!" Remnya shot a menacing glare at him, her eyes spitting fire. Liam was twice her size, but Remnya wouldn''t be easy prey. Despite her slender body, she was taller and stronger than most boys.


    Liam hesitated for a moment and glanced at his friends. Butter was on the ground, groaning in pain, while Santi hid behind a tree. He bared his teeth and snatched a broken metal pipe from the trash pile next to him.


    "Come on then, bitch! If you dare."


    Remnya swallowed through a closed throat while a bead of sweat rolled down her forehead. Her instinct yelled at her to flee, but her heart didn''t allow her to abandon her friend. She loosened her shoulders and tightened her fingers around her only weapon and hope.


    With a violent jerk of her right arm, she threw the rock as hard as she could.


    The projectile missed Liam''s cranium by inches, scratching his earlobe with a trail of sand and mud.


    Like an enraged animal, Liam charged at her, shouting unintelligible curses. Remnya stood still with her pupils locked on his movements.


    Liam aimed his weapon at her head. But she ducked and leaned back, avoiding his blows.


    Furious, he stomped at Remnya again. She leaped aside, kicking his knee as he blindly passed next to her. He groaned with frustration and swung his pipe aimlessly.


    Remnya evaded all her clumsy attempts, but as she took one step backward, her foot slipped on a mud puddle.


    Using her palms, Remnya avoided the fall and pushed herself back to her feet. However, when she lifted her eyes, she witnessed Liam over her, about to land a full blow on her face.


    Unable to evade it, she closed her eyes, waiting for the impact.


    It never arrived.


    Zeo jumped on Liam and pushed him with his whole body to the ground.


    Remnya felt a burning pain on the side of her face. A long red line had formed where the sharp edge of the metal cut through. If it hadn''t been for Zeo, Liam would have smashed her head. Her blood boiled with anger and frustration. Despite her unmatched reflexes and agility, she couldn''t fight him, not with solid metal threatening to break her skull.


    A loud thump resounded in her brain, and suddenly, everything was spinning. Remnya staggered as acute pain spread through her head. In her confusion, all she could see was a massive fist impacting her head for a second time.


    Unable to react, thick arms wrapped around her from behind. Butter had recovered and crushed her body with a tight grip. Liam''s high-pitched laughter echoed throughout the backyard as he kicked Zeo away from him. He lifted his weapon and strolled toward Remnya.


    Remnya twisted her body, unable to break free from Butter''s grasp. He was three times her weight, and being two years older, matched her strength. She regretted not using a heavier rock. His head was so thick he barely received any damage. She kicked his legs with her heels and tried to headbutt him, but he was shorter than her, and she couldn''t hit his nose.


    "Hurry!" Butter screamed, desperation in his voice as she buried her nails into his stomach.


    "Liam, don''t do it, man!" Santi shouted from behind the tree.


    "Shut up!" Liam roared as he loomed over Remnya. If he hit her, she would end up in the hospital again. Nobody wants to adopt broken kids; that''s what the adults always said. Her chances to leave would crumble.


    And who would protect her friend? Without her around, Zeo would suffer a terrible fate in the hands of those monsters.


    No way in hell she would allow that. As long as those people existed, they would keep causing harm.


    She had to get rid of them.


    Remnya felt her heart burning as if dipped in boiling water. Her hot hands hissed as they dug into Butter''s skin. An unbearable heat flowed through her veins like magma until it erupted through her skin like a volcano.


    A crimson flash blinded her, and tongues of fire caressed her face.


    Butter let out a terrifying shriek and released Remnya just in time for her to dodge Liam''s hit.


    A loud crack resounded throughout the backyard as the metal landed on Butter''s forehead, and a spurt of blood showered Liam''s face.


    Remnya couldn''t understand anything until she stared at her arms. They were covered in crimson flames, burning her clothes. She panicked and sprinted toward the nearest bathroom, leaving a trail of embers and sparks behind her.


    Her heart was in her throat, choking her as she stormed into the bathroom and turned the shower on, putting out the fire. She panted and trembled, her heartbeats hammering in her brain. With dilated eyes, she scanned her skin, terrified of the horrible burns she had gotten.


    There was nothing.


    Her skin was intact, smooth, and pale as usual. She lifted the remnants of her burnt shirt in front of a cracked mirror. Her stomach, arms, and hair were undamaged.


    Remnya brushed her hair with trembling fingers. She could swear it was on fire, but it was still as long and perfect as always. Why?


    Even the terrible pain in her head had disappeared.


    Leaning against a corner, Remnya dropped to the wet floor. She curled up, burying her face between her knees, and trembled as guilt tore her insides apart.


    "What did I do?" she mumbled, her voice cracking. "I didn''t want to do it, I didn''t want to . . . "


    *¡ã*¡ã*

 2: Old-New Enemies

    Remnya


    The wail of sirens invaded the evening, along with the murmur of adults and the cry of children. The hallway resounded with the steps of those who rushed outside to witness the scene. Remnya remained hidden in the darkness, contemplating the consequences of her actions over and over. The crack of Butter''s skull still echoed in her head and sent shivers down her spine.


    If the adults learned the truth about her nasty ability, they would lock her in the basement, deeming her unstable and dangerous, which meant no one would ever adopt her. Moreover, if the books Zeo had shown her spoke truly, she would be sent to The Eugenics Center of Crysalton, an infamous facility in the big city for misfits like herself.


    Her dream of having a family would crumble like a sandcastle.


    Remnya clenched her fists and leaned against the cracked tiles of the bathroom, burying her head between her knees. Her eyes burned, but no tear could escape from them; she had promised not to cry ever again.


    "Rem?" a soothing voice whispered from the doorway.


    "Zeo?" Remnya answered, springing from the floor.


    Zeo rushed into the bathroom and turned on the light. His eyes had swollen up, and blood had dried on his lips. "Are you okay?" he murmured, scanning the damage the fire had done to her clothes.


    Remnya scowled and nodded, crossing her arms to cover her exposed belly.


    Zeo lowered his gaze and bit his lower lip. "It wasn''t your fault, Rem. I am the dumb coward who caused all this." A tear trailed down his cheek.


    "It''s not your fault!" she shouted, narrowing her eyes. "If those jerks had never hurt you, this would''ve never happened! It''s their fault!"


    "But¡ª"


    "I don''t wanna hear no more!" She glared at him and bared her teeth. Zeo flinched and nodded. Turning the light off, Remnya approached the doorway and hesitatingly peeked outside. "Where''s the old hag? If she finds out about this . . . "


    "Don''t worry, Rem. She''s busy giving explanations to the police right now."


    Remnya swallowed and stared vacantly at the dirty wet floor, wishing Butter recovered soon. As much as she disliked those boys, she never wanted to hurt them.


    Zeo placed his hand on her shoulder. "Know that no one mentioned you out there, not even Santi. When they arrived at the scene, Liam was the only one to blame."


    "That stupid jerk." Remnya let out a sigh and shook her head, wondering why everyone hated them so much. Zeo was kind, polite, and harmless, so Remnya assumed she was the issue. If anyone deserved to be adopted, that was him, not her. The sole thought of leaving him behind stung the depths of her heart.


    "Oh, right!" Zeo exclaimed, interrupting her gloomy train of thoughts, and ran to retrieve a bag he had left by the door. "I brought you clean clothes. I took them from the laundry."


    Remnya inspected the bag and then looked at Zeo''s tender smile. "Thanks . . . " She pushed the self-hatred into a corner of her soul and rushed to change before the caregivers noticed their absence.


    They hid the burnt clothes in a trash can and headed back to the dorms. Crossing the main hall, Remnya observed the green flash of the ambulance reflecting on the cracked walls. Her face turned pale like a ghost, but she hid it under a scowl.


    As they passed in front of the infirmary, Remnya grabbed Zeo''s hand, stopping him. "What are you doing, Rem?" he asked, widening his eyes.


    "You''re hurt." She scowled, staring at the trail of blood sliding from the corner of his mouth, and then dragged him inside.


    "But I am fine!" Zeo struggled to follow her but didn''t try to resist.


    Remnya knew that if she didn''t take care of him, no one else would, not even himself. However, Zeo was more resilient than he looked; no matter how much they hurt him, his body recovered in no time, even faster than hers.


    Silently, they waited for the nurse in a cold room where only a stained fluorescent lamp illuminated their faces. The humidity had cracked the walls; they crumbled to the touch like dry biscuits. A fat rat emerged from a hole in the floor and stared at them with deep red pupils. Remnya crouched and tried to touch it, but it ran away as loud steps came from the doorway.


    "What happened now?" Ellyn, the nurse, said, looking at the wounds on Zeo''s face. She was a scrawny woman with pale beige hair and insipid gray eyes. Ellyn looked younger than her thirties and always kept a bored expression as if she only lived because the air was free.


    Zeo lowered his head and looked at Remnya, who stepped forward. "That Liam and his stupid friends again!" she shouted, fueled by anger, forgetting the consequences for a moment. No matter what, she would never forgive them for hurting Zeo.


    "Liam?" The nurse narrowed her eyes. "When did that happen?"


    "Well-Uh," Remnya stammered, struggling to think of an answer. "In the afternoon? Liam wanted to undress Zeo, but Butter didn''t agree with it, so they started arguing. Zeo took advantage of it to escape, and their fight escalated!" Remnya gestured with her hands effusively in hopes of sounding more convincing. "You know Liam. He''s mean and ugly and uh . . . He hates cute boys!"


    Zeo''s face turned red.


    Ellyn raised one eyebrow and scratched her head, processing Remnya''s story in silence. But in the end, she only shrugged and rolled her eyes. "Whatever. I just want to go home early tonight." The nurse opened the infirmary''s door and then turned to Remnya with a weary face. "You better go back to your room before Orena returns. Behave properly, and I won''t tell her about this."


    Remnya froze. "About what?" she murmured as her heart raced in her chest.


    "Go," Ellyn said firmly, narrowing her eyes at her.


    Remnya swallowed and exchanged looks with Zeo, who looked as perplexed as herself. She bobbed her head, waved at her friend, and headed back to her room, wondering if Ellyn knew the truth about her cursed skill. Why would she keep the secret, though? Since when did she care about her?


    Dusk had fallen when she arrived at the courtyard separating boys'' and girls'' dorms. Remnya lifted her eyes to the sky and witnessed a dim orange glow that faded across thick clouds. Droplets landed on her cheeks, reminding her why she hated cloudy days. Remnya strode into the last dark corridor that led to her room, which she shared with nine more girls.


    Everyone had to be in their rooms by eight, except for those who worked, such as Zeo. The pay was having a plate of food at night. Remnya was used to her stomach growling all night, but Zeo had begun bringing her food whenever he could sneak an extra meal into his satchel.


    Stolen from Royal Road, this story should be reported if encountered on Amazon.


    Standing by the door of her room, Remnya spotted her little friend, Amy. A nine-year-old girl with lilac hair and huge green eyes.


    "Sister!" Amy shouted, running toward her.


    "Amy!" Remnya kneeled to allow her into her arms. The little girl grasped her as Remnya squeezed her malnourished body.


    "Are you okay, sis? Did you kick Liam''s butt?" Amy asked, her eyes flickering with the innocence of a child. Remnya realized she had never left the room and had no idea about the gruesome events unfolding outside.


    "Yes, I did." Remnya forced a smile and pinched her cheek. "You got nothing else to worry about."


    "I''m glad!" She jumped with joy and threw a playful punch at her arm.


    "What are you doing here alone, though?" Remnya raised one eyebrow and eyed her surroundings in search of anything suspicious.


    "I wanted to show you something but don''t want the others to see." Amy pointed at her head. "Look, look!"


    "What did you do now?" Remnya laughed, ruffling her hair tenderly until her fingers felt a bump on her head. She gasped and widened her eyes, realizing what Amy meant. "They''ve grown," she murmured.


    Amy pouted and nodded, touching the bumps on her head.


    "Don''t tell anyone about them, okay? I''m sure they won''t grow anymore," Remnya said, beaming at her, but a faint worry hastened her heart. It wasn''t right. Amy didn''t deserve to go through the same hell as her. At least she doesn''t have a tail.


    "What if they grow like yours, sis?"


    "They won''t." Remnya''s voice was categorical; she wanted to convince herself too. Trying to bury the fear growing in her chest, Remnya stood up and took Amy''s hand. "Let''s go. It''s getting late, and you need to rest. Plus, I got a new bed story for you!" Amy nodded, allowing Remnya to lead her back inside.


    The atmosphere of the room was heavy and gloomy as usual. Like every night, Remnya checked her bed for any new prank her roommates tried to play on her; they usually spilled water on her mattress or destroyed her things. However, Remnya was relieved to know she didn''t have to fight again that night.


    As promised, she read Amy a bedtime story: the tale of a dog and a cat who loved each other, but as usual, she changed the ending for a happier one.


    By nine, Remnya dropped on her bed, immersing herself in the warm embrace of a dream, taunting her with the promise of a better place.


    *¡ã*¡ã*


    In the morning, a sleepy Remnya headed to the office of the orphanage director. The older kids always had to clean the rooms and corridors. Otherwise, they couldn''t play outside, but everyone despised and avoided cleaning the director''s office, also known as the old hag, Orena.


    Even though they had assigned Remnya the worst task, she was relieved they didn''t know about her participation in Butter''s incident.


    A gray mist lingered in the office, along with the reek of tobacco. Remnya''s lungs burned as she mopped the floor and tried to gasp for oxygen.


    A dying cigarette quivered between Orena''s thin lips as she stalked the kids playing in the front yard. Her plump cheeks were red as a tomato, and sweat slid through her wrinkles. The ruckus was reaching her window, so she barked out at someone to silence the brats.


    The door burst open, and a caregiver broke into the office, her face pale like a ghost. "Miss Orena!" she called, covering her nose with her sweater.


    "What do you want?" Orena rasped, blowing a mouthful of smoke, her red eyes still locked on the kids.


    She swallowed and mumbled, "He''s here."


    Orena threw her cigarette into the front yard and glared at her. "And now you tell me, you twat?" She pushed the caregiver aside and stomped out of the office, the floor shaking under her feet. The younger girl let out a sigh and ran after her.


    As soon as they left, Remnya rushed outside to take a mouthful of cleaner air. Detoxing her body with deep breaths, she leaned on the wall and wiped the sweat off her forehead. She lifted her hair in a ponytail and stared at her wet shirt and pants with frustration, knowing that was her last change of clean clothes.


    Since most girls were shorter than Remnya, she had gotten used to wearing used male clothes, but no boy, other than Zeo, would let her borrow some. Unfortunately, her friend''s clothes didn''t fit her fast-growing body. As if being called a horned witch wasn''t enough, the kids often compared her with a giraffe.


    I guess I''ll have to ask Ellyn . . .


    The raspy voice of Orena in the distance brought Remnya back to reality.


    She rushed to grab a broom lying on the floor and started sweeping the corridor.


    From the corner of her eyes, she spotted an unfamiliar face.


    A well-dressed man walked next to Orena, drawing everyone''s attention with his imposing looks. He dressed in a jet-black suit matched by pointy shoes that shined like crystals. His hair, of a dark umber color, was slicked back elegantly.


    His loud steps stopped a few meters away from her.


    Remnya shot a glance at the stranger and then pretended not to see him. Orena faked a yellowish smile and talked effusively to him, but the man ignored her. His sharp obsidian eyes locked on Remnya. He observed her in silence as if he was witnessing a rare animal in the zoo.


    Frustrated by his insistent gaze, Remnya turned to him with a frown and stuck out her tongue before resuming her job.


    Orena''s face flushed with anger as she yelled at Remnya. However, the man chuckled at her reaction. "I''m so sorry, Mr. Marcus. We''ll discipline her right away!" Orena stomped in Remnya''s direction, raising her fist, ready to strike her, but the man snatched her wrist, stopping her.


    "No need for that," Marcus said firmly. "It seems like our girl here has the right personality." He grinned, observing Remnya''s frowning face. "The Lady will be pleased."


    Marcus? The Lady?


    Remnya widened her eyes, wondering who he was; no one in the orphanage had the power to stop Orena when it came to beating them, and she had never seen the old lady acting so polite and submissive in the presence of a visitor.


    The man gestured for Orena to follow him and turned his back to them, walking away. Orena glared and pointed her finger at Remnya, letting her know the rest of the day would be much worse, and then followed Marcus.


    Remnya stuck out her tongue at the hag and kept on doing her job, wondering why such a classy-looking man had dared to enter that horrible place, but especially why he had shown interest in someone like her.


    *¡ã*¡ã*


    The last sunlight faded behind the town buildings, and another exhausting day of work had ended. Remnya leaned on the window ledge and stared vacantly at the sky. Clouds dissipated as the first stars tilted in the blue-orange hue of the horizon. She took a deep breath, allowing the moist air to fill her lungs.


    After dumping all her tools in the cleaning room, Remnya headed to take a bath as ordered by Orena.


    When the cold water of the shower hit her back, she writhed in pain. Her open wounds felt like thousand of bee stings. However, after a while, her body adapted to the pain, and she could relax.


    It was almost bedtime when Remnya finished and changed into old but clean clothes Ellyn had lent her; a black male t-shirt and sweatpants where she could hide her tail.


    Leaving the bathroom, Remnya found someone waiting for her next to the door.


    It was Liam''s friend, Santi. He leaned on the wall with both hands in his pockets.


    She frowned, turned her back to him, and began walking away.


    "Wait!" The boy stopped next to her, his bulging brown eyes boring into her soul. Remnya always thought he looked like a goblin.


    "What you want?" she hissed.


    "I didn''t tell anyone about what you did," he said, grinning with crooked teeth.


    "I did nothing!" Remnya glared at him. "You and your stupid friends started it."


    "It was Liam''s idea."


    "And you''re friends with that jerk."


    Santi giggled awkwardly, making Remnya''s blood boil. "I won''t tell the old hag about it, but I want something in exchange." He stepped closer and touched her hair.


    "Are you serious?" She shoved him away. "What you want anyway?"


    "Come to the boys'' bathroom before bedtime, and I will tell you." He smirked.


    "Go to hell." Remnya raised one fist, threatening to slam it on his face.


    "If you don''t, I will tell the old hag about the fire."


    His words felt like a splash of icy water on her back. "What . . . ? Remnya widened her eyes and froze in her spot.


    "Remember to come alone. I promise you it''ll be fun." Santi winked at her and began walking away.


    The sound of his steps echoed in her mind as his small figure vanished in the distance.


    Remnya swallowed, her heart racing in her chest. She clenched her fists and held back the impulse to run after him and kick his face. He had put a leash around her neck that threatened to end her last chance to be adopted.


    Remnya stood still for a moment, staring vacantly out the window.


    The memories of a recent event still lingered in her head. On her last birthday, the older boys had locked her in the bathroom and tried to kiss her. Fortunately, Remnya managed to escape, aided by Zeo and a piece of broken glass.


    From the girls, she had heard Santi liked her, and that made her shiver with disgust. Even if he didn''t want to hurt her, he wasn''t trustworthy.


    Yet, if she didn''t go, he would reveal her secret.


    Her life would be over.


    Silence.


    There wasn''t time to pity herself. Remnya lifted her face, gritted her teeth, and took the first step toward the consequences of her decision.


    *¡ã*¡ã*

 3: A New Beginning

    Remnya


    Despite the kids running past Remnya, the corridors felt cold and empty, and the ruckus was a distant whisper. She chewed her decision, knowing regret was the most likely outcome. But if it meant to safeguard her only chance to leave that place with a family, she''d do it.


    Instead of heading to her bedroom, she turned toward the boys'' dorms. The time seemed to slow down. Her heart kicked against her ribs, and her palms were soaked with sweat.


    I have to do it.


    I have to . . .


    Otherwise . . .


    At the end of the corridor, the stench of the boys'' bathroom reached her nose. A smell that triggered the memories of that night. She stood in front of the door and gritted her teeth. Looking left and right, she couldn''t see a single soul. She was on her own to face whatever lay behind those rotten walls.


    Silence, ominous silence.


    Remnya closed her eyes, took a deep breath, and gathered the strength to face the consequences of her reckless decision.


    Without thinking, she strode into the bathroom.


    . . .


    The place was empty.


    She scanned every corner in search of Santi until a whisper coming from behind made her turn immediately.


    Santi walked into the bathroom with a smirk on his face. Remnya''s heart calmed down, seeing he was alone, but disgust flowed through her glare.


    "I am here. Now what?" Remnya said, clenching her fists.


    "I just wanted to talk." He circled her like a hyena stalking her prey. Yet his small size posed no threat to her, who looked down her nose at him.


    "Don''t waste my time." She folded her arms. "If this is about what I think it is, the answer is NO!"


    Santi giggled. "You say that, but we''re not as different as you think, Rem." He walked closer, and Remnya flinched away.


    "What do you mean?"


    "See for yourself." He leaned forward, putting his head in front of her. "Touch me."


    Remnya winced at his words but quickly noticed something different on his head. Reluctantly, she reached out for his greasy hair.


    She gasped when her fingers touched two bumps similar to Amy''s sticking out.


    "No way . . . " Her jaw dropped in disbelief. "You are . . . "


    "It seems like we have something in common, after all." He smirked.


    Remnya took a moment to assimilate her discovery and then spoke, "I guess so . . . but I don''t understand why you chose to tell me of all people."


    "You already know why." He shrugged. "And I know Amy is like us too."


    She gaped. "Amy?"


    Santi nodded and smiled. "This is why we''re meant to be together, Rem." He stepped closer. "We''re the same."


    Remnya put her hands in front of her, keeping him at a distance. "I''m glad you shared this with me, but I''m not sure I understand what you want from me."


    "You do know."


    "I don''t! And I better get going now."


    Suddenly and without a word, Santi stomped toward her and grabbed her wrists, moving her arms out of his way.


    "Stop it!" Remnya glared at him and tried to shove him away. But her eyes widened when she realized his strength was way beyond his scrawny appearance and cowardly behavior.


    Santi squeezed her wrists and pushed her against the wall, but Remnya freed her right hand and smashed a fist against his mouth.


    He stepped backward and stood still for a moment, but a smile spread across his face. "You''ve always underestimated me, haven''t you?" He lifted his gaze at her; his pupils had turned into two red dots stinging her skin. "Do you think I hang with Liam out of fear?" He giggled. "That fool gets me what I want, whenever I want. Though, it''s a pity he hasn''t managed to get rid of that four-eyed nuisance yet."


    "You mean Zeo?" Remnya buried her nails into her palms. "Don''t tell me you''ve always been the one behind all his suffering!"


    Santi folded his arms. "I couldn''t get rid of him myself because it was too risky, so I always got those idiots to do the dirty job for me."


    "Why?" Remnya shouted, glaring at him as fury burned her insides. "What he ever did to you?"


    "That bitch has always been all over you. It''s annoying." Santi''s face changed, and his expression darkened with hatred. "And you only seem to care about him. Why?"


    "I can''t believe it . . . " Remnya walked forward, gritting her teeth. "You''re the worst, you jerk!"


    "Oh, am I?" Santi pouted mockingly. "Why don''t you try to burn me too then?"


    "I . . . " Remnya froze.


    "What do you think will happen when they find out about what you did?"


    Silence.


    "Why . . . ?" Remnya shook her head, unable to recognize the monster in front of her. "I always thought you were better than them."


    "Bullshit. You never saw me differently." Santi took one step forward. "But it''s okay, Rem. I always get what I want, one way or another." He lunged toward her and slammed her body against the wall, holding her arms with unnatural force. Unlike Liam or Butter, his hands felt like a press, crushing her wrists. She had never felt something like that before.


    He leaned forward, trying to kiss her, but she ducked and smashed her head against his nose.


    Blood flew away as he winced in pain. Remnya took advantage of his confusion to kick his groin and free her hands from his grip.


    Santi curled up in pain, and Remnya saw the chance to run away as fast as she could.


    From behind, she overheard a roar of anger and unintelligible curses, but that didn''t matter anymore.


    Even though her blood boiled with anger, her legs didn''t stop. Fleeing was her best choice. Remnya had never met someone who could overpower her with such ease, and using her fire against him was out of the question.


    Remnya bolted into her room and shoved herself under the blankets, trembling. Her heart kicked against her ribs, resonating in her ears with violence. Not even the nasty comments of her roommates could reach her.


    Was it over for her?


    Why would Santi go that far?


    What could she do to stop him?


    Unable to find answers, Remnya closed her eyes and allowed the exhaustion of her body and mind to shut down his brain.


    *¡ã*¡ã*


    A grim atmosphere filled the orphanage that night. The violent wind caused all kinds of screeches on the weakened structure of the building, resembling the cackle of a witch. Yet, Remnya was deeply asleep, drooling on her pillow. She lay diagonally with her arms and legs hanging outside the bed.


    A case of content theft: this narrative is not rightfully on Amazon; if you spot it, report the violation.


    As mercy of fate, nightmares gave her a break.


    In her dream, Remnya saw her gray and white cat¡ªthe one she missed so much. That year had been harder without him, and ever since then, she had refused to shed a single tear. She played with her kitty, petted him, and allowed him to purr under her blanket.


    That was her ideal world, a world where death didn''t exist, and neither did Orena, Liam, or Santi.


    But it wasn''t real. It was stupid.


    The monster of reality reminded her of it every morning when it devoured her dreams.


    It was four-thirty in the morning when the door burst open, and Orena stomped into her room. She walked up to Remnya and shook her violently.


    "Wake up, brat!" she yelled, but Remnya barely noticed her. The old lady grabbed a glass of water from a nightstand and splashed it on her face.


    Remnya flinched at the cold water and covered herself with the blankets. "What''s going on?"


    "Get up!" Orena roared, pulling the blankets off her and yanking her off the bed. Remnya sat back on the bed half-asleep, trying to understand the situation, but Orena forced her to stand up and out of the room.


    Remnya''s head felt like falling apart, and her soul threatened to escape her body as the pieces of the puzzle began to fit. Had they found out about what happened with Butter? Had Santi revealed her secret? Was she being taken to the basement?


    "I can explain!" Remnya shouted desperately, but Orena kept on dragging her through the cold corridors.


    Is it really over?


    The old lady pushed Remnya into an empty dark bedroom.


    Remnya had begun to think of an escape plan when Orena turned the lights on, and Ellyn entered the room with a sleepy face.


    "What''s going on, Ellyn?" Remnya asked, scanning every corner with wide-open eyes. The room looked normal, and she couldn''t find any belts or sticks to beat her body.


    "We gotta get you ready. Your family is coming soon," Ellyn said, trying to untangle hair out of a brush.


    "What?" Remnya''s jaw dropped as she blinked with confusion. "Now? For real?"


    Ellyn bobbed her head and forced a smile. Remnya scanned her gray eyes in search of lies or ill intentions, but there were none. It was the truth, a truth she had been longing for since she was a toddler.


    The time slowed in that gloomy room, and a bittersweet sensation wrapped around her heart. Perhaps, her everlasting dream of having a family had become a reality.


    Remnya froze while a hurricane of emotions unleashed in her head. The idea of a family was an alien concept, and she had assumed no one would ever want to adopt a devil with horns.


    It had to be a dream or a joke.


    Orena yanked Remnya''s arm and forced her to sit in front of a mirror. "Now, stay still!" she roared, pulling at her hair roughly with a brush.


    The pain brought her back to reality. It was real.


    "Ouch! All this is too sudden!" Remnya twisted her body. "I haven''t said goodbye to my friends yet!" The face of Zeo and Amy popped up in her mind.


    "I don''t care!" Orena yanked her hair, forcing Remnya to lift her head.


    "That hurts, old hag!" Remnya yelled, pushing Orena''s hand away, causing her to drop the brush. The old lady roared and slapped Remnya across the face. Her head barely moved; she was used to her hits and wouldn''t give her the satisfaction of seeing her in pain.


    "Orena, please," Ellyn said, holding Orena''s fist before it landed on Remnya''s face again. "Remember what he said."


    Orena clenched her teeth and bent over to pick up the brush. Remnya looked at her through the mirror and stuck out her tongue. The old lady held back not to hit her again. She ordered Ellyn to finish combing Remnya''s hair and then stormed out of the room.


    Ellyn finished and went to retrieve several bags with clothes she dropped on the bed. A blue dress caught Remnya''s attention. She picked it up and sniffed it.


    "It smells like new," she said, holding it up to take a better look at it.


    "Do you like it?" Ellyn asked. "Sarah picked that for you."


    Remnya gave Ellyn a sidelong glance and put the dress back on the bed. "It''s cute, I guess . . . But why?"


    "Just a last gift for you." Ellyn smiled. "Now, please change into your new clothes. The socks and shoes are in the other bags," Ellyn said as she walked out of the room and closed the door behind her.


    Remnya wondered if they had gone crazy overnight; they had never given her new clothes in her life.


    I can''t trust them. It has to be a trap.


    Remnya finished changing and looked in the mirror, barely recognizing herself without her tomboyish clothes. Sometimes Remnya forgot she was a girl, so the sight staggered her. Why did those kids call her an ugly witch? What was wrong with her face? Remnya felt stupid, but a smile pulled at her lips.


    Her eyes widened when she noticed something. Her collar was gone. "What?" she shouted, inspecting her neck. I bet they took it when I was asleep! That sneaky old hag! Her neck looked naked without it, but it was a pleasant feeling.


    Tired of looking at herself, Remnya tried to open the door and go to Zeo''s room to say goodbye, but they had locked it from the other side. "Stupid old hag!" Remnya roared, kicking and punching the door several times. But no matter how hard she hit it, no one came.


    Sleepy and furious, Remnya sat on the bed, crossing her arms, and waited for the witches to return.


    The silence allowed her to rethink the events from last night. Without her around, Santi had no reason to hurt Zeo anymore. Perhaps her absence was for the better. After all, she was the cause of all problems, she thought.


    Everyone should be happier without me.


    I just hope he can understand this . . .


    Eventually, fatigue won over her body again.


    *¡ã*¡ã*


    A heavy hand landed on Remnya''s face.


    "Look at your hair!" Orena yelled, shaking her violently. Remnya had messed up her hairstyle and felt how the old lady brushed her bangs roughly. She was still half-asleep when Orena forced her to walk out of the room.


    The bright light of the morning blinded her sleepy eyes when they arrived at the entrance hall. She glimpsed a familiar face; it was that elegant man again, Marcus. He was standing at the front door with a frown.


    "Him?" Remnya raised her eyebrows, pointing at Marcus.


    "Shut up!" Orena yelled, slapping her hand. They stopped in front of him, and the old lady smiled. "She''s ready, Mr. Marcus. As promised."


    Marcus scanned Remnya from head to toe. His sharp pupils stopped at her red cheek. He remained silent for a moment and then asked coldly, "Did you hit her again?"


    "No, no, sir!" Orena said, shaking her head nervously.


    Remnya frowned at Orena and nodded at Marcus. "I should get your hands cut, old woman," Marcus said, glaring at Orena, who widened her eyes in fear and began apologizing. "Don''t apologize to me. Apologize to her." He gestured at Remnya.


    Orena looked at Remnya and back at Marcus. His face emanated a deadly aura. "I''m sorry, Remnya," she mumbled, swallowing her pride.


    Remnya stifled a chuckle making Orena''s face swell with fury. Marcus'' serious expression faded as he stared at Remnya. "Are you ready to go, young girl?" he asked in a gentle voice.


    She gaped at him, unable to believe he could be polite. "Can I say goodbye to my friends?" she asked, embarrassed.


    "Go ahead." Marcus bobbed his head. Remnya smiled at him and darted toward the dorms.


    Remnya rushed to find Amy first.


    The little girl slept wrapped to her teddy bear. Remnya hugged her, kissed her forehead, and watched her sleep for long seconds. That''s when the realization hit her like a train. Her eyes filled with tears, but she held them back. Amy will be mad at me, Remnya thought as she ruffled her silky hair for the last time.


    She headed to the next dorm and stopped by Butter''s ex-room. "I hope you get well soon," she murmured.


    "I doubt that fatass will."


    Remnya turned with disgust to find Santi standing behind her with a smile.


    "I got no time for you now." She began to walk away.


    "Does your new dad know about your fire?"


    Remnya glared at him, heat building up in her chest. Yet she spoke confidently, "Go ahead and tell him, if you dare."


    Knowing he wasn''t worth it anymore, she left him behind. Santi said something, but her ears were deaf to poisonous words. She had something more important to do.


    Remnya wandered the corridors for a while until she finally found her friend. Zeo was already waiting for her near the stairs with a bag in his hands.


    They exchanged looks as she leaned on the wall next to him.


    The moment seemed to last forever until Remnya spoke.


    "I didn''t think it would be so soon," she said, caressing her tail.


    "It''s okay, Rem." Zeo smiled shyly while his eyes seemed unable to recognize Remnya in those clothes. She looked like a girl, a cute girl. Realizing his mouth was wide open, he forced his gaze to the floor. "I said I would make a present for you, and since there won''t be another chance . . . Here." Zeo handed her the bag he was holding. "Sorry, though, it''s not finished yet."


    Remnya took the bag but didn''t look inside. "I''m gonna miss you."


    "Me too," Zeo''s voice finally cracked, and his eyes flooded with tears.


    Remnya pulled him toward her and hugged him tightly. His slim body was shaking between her strong arms. Zeo tried to say something, but his voice drowned in the rainfall that rolled down his cheeks.


    "Be strong, Zeo. I don''t care what those jerks say about you. For me, you''re brave and strong." She tightened her grasp around him.


    Zeo seemed to want to say something, and express his inner feelings, but words didn''t dare to come out. Every time he tried, tears muffled him.


    "Remember, you''re not a coward, so stop thinking that. I believe in you." Remnya released him and stared deep into his wet, green eyes.


    "Thank you, Rem," Zeo mumbled, taking off his glasses and wiping his tears. "You . . . I . . . " he stuttered, unable to say it.


    Remnya''s vision blurred with tears, but again, she fought them back. Remnya regarded him with a faint smile, and in a sudden, clumsy movement, she kissed his moist cheek. After that, Remnya didn''t dare to look at him anymore and ran away.


    Zeo turned red as he watched her disappear at the end of the corridor. He sniffled and rubbed his eyes, trying to get ahold of himself. He caressed his cheek and sobbed. "Rem . . . " He sat on the floor and buried his face between his knees.


    It was over. It was time to go.


    Remnya stood next to Marcus in front of the orphanage. Some kids gathered by the windows to witness her departure while Orena and Ellyn stood by the door.


    Remnya lifted her eyes to stare at the orphanage, and a knot oppressed her chest. She would miss that ugly place; it had been her home ever since she could remember; too many friends and memories.


    But the time had come.


    She waved at everyone with a smile on her face and walked toward the car. Marcus opened the backdoor, and she hoped inside. He eased on his seat and adjusted his mirror until Remnya appeared in its reflection.


    She grabbed the bag Zeo had given her and drew her gift from it.


    A doll.


    But not any doll. It was her doll: black hair, crimson eyes, two tiny horns, a tail, and a smile on its face. It even smelled like her favorite perfume, vanilla lemon. A warm sensation filled her heart as she hugged it. Zeo said it wasn''t finished, but when Remnya inspected it, she couldn''t find anything wrong with it.


    It was perfect.


    The car started up. Remnya glanced over her shoulder at the orphanage for the last time, and finally, Marcus drove away.


    She was on her way to a new beginning.


    *¡ã*¡ã*

 4: The Mirror

    Remnya


    Clouds vanished as the sun tickled Remnya''s pale cheeks. She was glued to the car window, fascinated by the landscape. The road ahead was a thin line squeezed by immense meadows and a row of dark orange mountains on the horizon. At their bottom, the city of Crysalton rose like a dark sea of concrete and steel.


    A turbulent river of rust-colored waters separated Crysalton from her birthplace¡ªthe town of Fallen Star. An immense metropolis guarded by an imposing mountain chain, climbing up to the highest slopes, painting the iron rocks with a grayish-blue tone.


    The road took a steep descent into the city, where the first skyscrapers rose in the distance, dwarfing the tallest building.


    A smile drew across Remnya''s face. The place she had always admired from a treetop was now beneath her, embracing her into its arms.


    The noon turned into evening as those monsters of steel obscured the sky. The quiet road became a busy boulevard accompanied by the roaring of engines. A faint smell of coffee and fuel fumes filled the car.


    Stores and theaters glowed with dazzling LED lights and realistic holograms advertising rare products. Loud music, vendors yelling, vehicles roaring, claxons; everything was a symphony of chaos.


    The slow traffic allowed Remnya to examine the crowded streets. People rushed like ants, ignoring the rampant technology around them. Their eyes were too focused on their phones, and their senses were numbed by habit.


    Leaving the tumult behind, they entered a fancy neighborhood. The overwhelming technology ceased as the streets became empty.


    Their car slowed in front of an iron gate. It opened, allowing them into the property. They advanced through a narrow street surrounded by violet Empress trees casting uneven shadows over moist grass.


    "What is this place?" Remnya asked, not taking her eyes away from the window.


    "This is the Lovecraft Mansion, young girl," Marcus said. "Your new home."


    "What?" Her jaw dropped. "Are you serious?"


    Marcus nodded at her through the rear-view mirror.


    "No way!" She rushed to comb her hair with her fingers and adjusted her ribbon.


    "There." Marcus pointed at the front. Remnya gasped as she spotted a mansion glimmering at the end of the street.


    They circled a fountain with a phoenix statue that shot water in different shapes, drawing rainbows under the sunlight, and finally came to a halt in front of the mansion. Long stairs guarded by two stone lionesses led to the entrance where a woman waited for them.


    Marcus opened the back door for Remnya and bowed to the mysterious woman. "She is Lady Magenta," he said, presenting her with a polite gesture of his hand.


    The woman walked toward them, tiny diamonds dazzling on her heels with every elegant step. She leaned forward and took Remnya''s face between her hands. "You''re so beautiful," the lady said.


    Remnya stared at Magenta''s piercing green eyes. She was imposing and taller than her. The silk of her purple dress was tight on her curvy body, displaying a perfect figure. Her hair fell smoothly on her waist, shining with a garnet color.


    Magenta scanned Remnya''s horns and tail. "You are a Nephilim, right, my dear?" She caressed her left horn.


    "I am not." Remnya leaned away from her touch. It was a new beginning; she didn''t want to be seen as a freak again.


    Magenta grinned, amused by her reaction. "What''s your name?"


    "Remnya."


    "Such an exotic name. Marvelous!" The lady brushed a strand of hair aside. "Do you know why you are here?"


    Remnya scratched her head. "Someone adopted me?"


    The woman chuckled and reached out for her hand. "Come, my dear."


    Remnya glanced at her hand. Multiple sapphires sparkled on her long fingers. Hesitantly, she gripped her cold hand and followed her to the mansion.


    A smooth vermillion carpet welcomed Remnya into a large entrance hall, where a stair with rubies on every step invited her to the higher floors. Old rare paintings adorned the chocolate and cream-coated walls. The ceiling was of dark-red wood and glass, with gold chandeliers hanging from it. What is this place? Remnya thought as the luxury spun around her.


    Magenta observed her reaction with amusement. "What do you think?" the lady asked. But Remnya stammered, trying to find the words. Magenta smiled and patted her head. "It''s okay, my dear. You''ll have time to get used to this."


    Remnya curled her lips and looked away. She wasn''t used to being left speechless.


    Magenta locked her eyes on Remnya''s face. She leaned closer to inspect her cheek. "Who did this to you?" the lady asked, caressing the cut on Remnya''s face, left by her last fight with Liam.


    A heavy silence filled the room.


    "This? Uh . . . " Remnya lowered her head.


    "My apologies, my lady." Marcus walked forward. "It seems like Orena had been punishing her despite my warnings. I''m at fault for not being severe enough."


    The lady remained expressionless, but her eyes pierced through Marcus like knives. She looked back at Remnya. "Is that true, my dear?" Her voice was calm and cold.


    Remnya touched the cut on her face. "This is nothing, don''t worry." She laughed nervously.


    Magenta stared at her for a moment and chuckled. "Of course." Without taking her eyes away from Remnya, she beckoned at someone with a hand gesture. A young girl crossed the hall and stood by Magenta''s side. "This is Maria, one of my most trustable maids."


    Maria smiled and bowed to Remnya. "It''s a pleasure to meet you."


    "Hi." Remnya bowed clumsily, glancing at the beautiful girl. She couldn''t be older than twenty.


    "Maria will show you the way to your room," Magenta said, holding Maria''s arm. "I''m confident you will like it."


    Remnya raised her eyebrows.


    "Please, feel at home, my dear." Magenta beamed at her. "I will meet you at lunch, so we can get to know each other better. Okay?"


    Remnya blinked in confusion and then bobbed her head. "Thank you, miss," she said and allowed the maid to guide her toward a long hallway.


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    Magenta admired the young Nephilim until she disappeared behind the doorway.


    *¡ã*¡ã*


    The mansion was a luxurious maze for Remnya; the maid had taken her through multiple hallways. Maria walked graciously in front of her. A velvet ribbon swayed on the back of her frilly dress. Her peanut brown hair was short, and her bright lavender eyes matched her warm smile.


    They crossed a large courtyard surrounded by a multicolored garden, where a fountain of crystalline water stood out in the middle. The cold, humid air of the morning lingered there, along with violet hummingbirds flapping their wings around black roses.


    At the end of the garden, wide crystal doors led back inside toward the dorms.


    An endless corridor with bizarre paintings on smooth beige walls, the carpet was dark red like wine, and a soft perfume of roses and citrus floated in the air. A girl stood halfway in the corridor, waiting for them. She had her eyes locked on Remnya.


    "She is Brisa," Maria said as they stopped in front of her.


    Remnya lifted her eyes at her. Brisa was taller and thinner than Magenta. She looked foreign with a very exotic beauty; long hair like black silk, dark bronze skin, and a mystical golden gaze.


    "I can''t believe my eyes," Brisa said in a strange accent as she leaned closer to scan Remnya from head to toe. She grabbed and pinched her cheeks. "Amazing, her skin is so soft. No wonder she''s so expensive!"


    "Hey!" Remnya shoved her hands away and scowled. "What do you mean?"


    "Brisa is just being silly, young lady!" Maria stepped in the middle of them, pushing Brisa away.


    "Jeez! I didn''t know Nephilims had such a bad temper," Brisa sneered with a shrug.


    "I am not a Nephilim!" Remnya yelled.


    "The important thing, young lady!" Maria interrupted with a big smile and stepped on Brisa''s foot with her heels. "We have a beautiful room ready for you!"


    Remnya frowned and gave Brisa a sidelong glance.


    "Brisa, please, can you show us the room?" Maria asked.


    Brisa squinted at Maria as she massaged her foot. "This way." She pushed the door next to her. Maria inspected the room and gestured for Remnya to come inside.


    Remnya''s jaw dropped at the sight of such a large room. It had a wide bed covered by fluffy burgundy blankets and lustrous Blackwood furniture on every corner. The walls and ceiling combined an elegant mix of pastel red and black, her favorite colors. She noticed the place had a TV, a laptop, an AC, and a bathroom so big it could fit another room inside.


    "What do you think?" Maria asked, holding her hands together.


    Remnya admired every corner, unable to speak as she breathed the soft scent of wood and lemon-vanilla floating in the air. She looked at Maria and stammered, "Really?"


    She nodded. "This will be your room from now on."


    "This is awesome!" Remnya shouted, running to stroke the bedsheets.


    "Yay!" Maria beamed as Brisa rolled her eyes. "Now, please make yourself comfortable, young lady. Brisa will come for you later and show you the way to the dining room."


    Remnya nodded, distracted, as she checked her big closet, full of new clothes. When the girls left, Remnya jumped on the bed, bouncing and burying her skinny body in the soft covers. She stared at the ceiling and smiled as the room embraced her.


    *¡ã*¡ã*


    Zeo


    Zeo was reading in the corner of his room, the safest place now that Remnya was gone. He''d found an old book about martial arts in the library and dreamed of becoming as good as Remnya at fighting. He wanted to protect others too.


    Kids at the orphanage were scary, but few dared to mess with Rem. He always remembered the time the older boys locked her in the bathroom. He saw everything and could do nothing. When everything was over, she just laughed it off. ''This is nothing, don''t worry,'' she had said as her mouth bled. From that day onward, Zeo hated himself for being weak and a coward, but he wanted to change it. He had to.


    A loud knock on the door made Zeo jump and drop the book. "Lunchtime!" A sharp voice yelled. "Are you there, four-eyes? Go now!"


    Zeo sighed as a shiver ran down his spine. The kids told him Liam had been released from the basement that morning. As expected, the adults didn''t care about his behavior, and the fact that Butter didn''t die was enough to let that monster roam freely again.


    If the caregivers weren''t around, Liam would have his revenge on him, Zeo knew. However, he was starving; he had given his last meal to Rem the night before.


    Zeo took a deep breath, clenched his fists, and opened the door. I can''t be a coward forever; Remnya will be disappointed. He walked down the long hallways that felt like the labyrinth of death.


    The dining hall was loud and messy as usual. Kids ran from all directions, food and tableware flew above his head, and to his distress, no sight of the caregivers. He peeked at every corner and shuffled toward the food table. Since he was late, there wasn''t much left to choose. He grabbed a plate and put on mashed potatoes with a chicken leg. Zeo rushed to eat where he stood, staying alert in case Liam came for him.


    "Boo!" Someone pinched his sides.


    Zeo jumped and flipped his plate, dropping the food. He whirled with a pale face, but his heart slowed when he saw Amy standing behind him. "Please don''t do that," he mumbled, trying to catch his breath.


    "Sorry." Amy giggled, scratching a strange bump on her head. He sighed and crouched to pick up his food from the floor. "Liam and the others aren''t around." She smiled.


    "Are you sure?" Zeo scanned the hall for the fifth time. "Does that mean he''s still locked in the basement?"


    Amy shrugged and grabbed Zeo''s hand. "Come!" She dragged him to a table in a corner, where they sat with other little girls. His face turned red, thinking about how much the boys would make fun of him, but he was relieved Liam wasn''t around. He hoped he finally got what he deserved for hurting Remnya.


    Zeo finished his food in silence while the girls laughed and talked. He was used to eating alone or with Remnya and Amy and was glad the little girl still enjoyed his company, unlike most kids. Now that Rem is gone, I am the one who has to protect Amy. He wiped his mouth and ordered the tableware meticulously.


    "Four-eyes!" a girl said. Zeo turned and saw one of Remnya''s ex-roommates standing behind him with a smirk. Her name was Gina. A fifteen-year-old girl with blonde dyed hair with faded pink tips and lots of make-up. "Is it true what they say? The horned witch got adopted by a rich family?"


    "Yes," Zeo said sharply, looking away.


    "So, it''s true." She gritted her teeth and faked a smile. "Anyhow, four-eyes. Wanna play a game with us?"


    "No." Zeo turned his back to her. He wasn''t falling for it again; the last time, they had stolen his pants and glued his glasses to the back of his head.


    "If you come with me, I''ll give you a kiss." Gina wrapped her arms around him and rubbed her cheeks on his face. Zeo hated her perfume and was scared of her, yet he blushed. He tried to move away from her grasp, but she held him tighter.


    "He doesn''t like girls!" Amy yelled, scowling at her.


    Zeo wished she didn''t say anything. "He doesn''t?" Gina asked. "Well, the boys say you are gay."


    "That''s not true!" Zeo raised his voice, his heart hammering faster as sweat rolled down his back.


    "Then show it!" She rubbed her fingers on his lips, her long nails pink and bright. "Come with me."


    "Why? What do you want?" He kept trying to lean away from her.


    "I want you." She bit the tip of his long ear, making him flinch. His reaction made everyone watching them burst out laughing.


    "He doesn''t wanna go! Piss off!" Amy threw a paper ball at her face.


    "Hey! You little shit!" Gina yelled and tried to slap Amy''s hands, but she dodged it.


    "Leave him alone, clown face." Amy threw a meatball at her and stuck out her tongue.


    "Okay, that''s it! I''m gonna beat your ass!" Gina bolted toward Amy.


    But Zeo grabbed her arm, stopping her.


    Gina turned around and slapped Zeo with full force, sending his glasses flying away. His cheek burned, but he didn''t let go of her. He knew she meant her words and would hurt Amy. It wouldn''t be the first time. "Let me go, stupid four-eyes!"


    "Run!" Zeo screamed at Amy, struggling to hold her back, but the little girl was more stubborn than Remnya. She kept throwing food at Gina, fueling her anger. Gina buried her nails in Zeo''s face and punched him several times. Her punches were soft compared to the boys'', but her nails stung like needles in his skin.


    The scene attracted all the kids, who surrounded them to watch, laughing and cheering for them to fight. Most insulted Zeo and cheered for Gina to beat him, but a few others found amusement in supporting him.


    The pain was getting worse, and his face was covered in blood, but he had decided not to let her hurt Amy. Her arm began to slip away from his hands, so in a desperate attempt to stop her, Zeo reached out to hold her shoulder, but his hand accidentally landed on Gina''s face.


    That''s the last thing he remembered.


    Silence filled his mind, and in one second, his head was on the ground, sharp pain traveling through his left side. Liam had smashed his head with a metal pipe. All Zeo could see and hear was the crowd going crazy and a tall shadow over him, kicking him.


    "Damn four-eyes! Hitting girls now?" Liam said.


    Zeo tried to yell ''No!'', but words didn''t come out. Liam and his friends dragged him to the backyard. He heard the kids shouting his name along with insults and Amy crying for them to stop. He tried to react but couldn''t move; someone or something was restraining his arms and legs.


    One punch, and another, and another. It hurt a lot at first, but after a few minutes, the pain became numb. Zeo lifted his green eyes and peered at Remnya, staring at him. See Rem? I''m not a coward. He smiled.


    I . . . am not a coward . . .


    I am . . . not . . . a coward . . .


    *¡ã*¡ã*

 5: Lights And Shadows

    Remnya


    Noon arrived sooner than expected. The time flew by in the mansion. Remnya was still figuring out how her laptop worked when Brisa came for her. The maid took her to the dining hall without saying a single word. She seemed in a bad mood, so Remnya didn''t dare to start a conversation.


    The dining hall was massive. Remnya scanned the place in awe; every room was an exciting experience, a new world she had only seen in her dreams. Brisa told her to sit and wait for Magenta, but curiosity drove her to examine every corner. The place had a great view of the garden, thanks to the immense crystal windows surrounding it. Sunbeams warmed up the interior as they mirrored on the wine marble floor, giving the hall a divine glow.


    A sharp sound of heels echoed from the doorway throughout the silent hall. Remnya rushed to sit and adjust her wrinkled dress.


    Magenta walked into the hall, each step leaving a trail of elegance behind her. The white silk of her long dress danced around her legs while the sun''s reflection cast a radiant aura on her figure. She looked like a goddess. Magenta sat at the end of the table and beamed at Remnya, who returned a twist of her lips resembling a smile.


    A soft essence of mango mixed with roses reached Remnya''s nose. She smells like she looks.


    Magenta crossed her arms on the table and locked her eyes on Remnya, analyzing her every move in silence. Remnya looked away, trying to escape her green gaze, and shifted in her seat.


    "You don''t have to feel nervous, my dear," the lady said in a soothing voice.


    "I''m not." Remnya forced herself to keep eye contact, but Magenta''s eyes felt like needles.


    The lady smiled at her reaction. "I know that orphanage was a bad place, but no one will hurt you here."


    Remnya glanced at her and then at the vivid garden.


    "Orena . . . " Magenta shook her head. "She was awful, wasn''t she?"


    Remnya raised her eyebrows. "Do you know the old hag¡ªI mean, Orena?"


    Magenta chuckled. "Unfortunately. That''s why I sent Marcus to deal with her. I can''t stand people like that."


    "She was a mean hag, but," Remnya pointed at the cut on her cheek. "She didn''t do this."


    "Interesting." Magenta leaned forward. "Who did that to you?"


    "Liam . . . He is a very annoying kid who hates my friend Zeo and me."


    "Liam?" Magenta pressed her lips with her index finger. "What else did he do to you?"


    "He didn''t dare to bother me much, but once, he locked me in the boys'' bathroom and tried to get his friend Santi to kiss me." Remnya shuddered at the thought.


    The lady blinked, remaining expressionless. "Did they do anything else to you? You can trust me with anything," she assured her in a firm voice.


    Remnya thought about it for a moment. "No. I punched them and kicked them, and then . . . I used a broken glass." Her voice hesitated as she dropped her gaze. "Sorry, I know that wasn''t okay to do."


    "No, my dear. That''s quite impressive."


    "Is it?" Remnya tugged her dress and looked at Magenta from the corner of her eyes. "Even if I hurt someone? I didn''t mean to."


    "You defended yourself. I would''ve done the same." Magenta''s upper lip twitched. "No, maybe worse."


    Remnya widened her eyes. "Really? A lady like you?"


    "You can be a lady and lioness at the same time." Magenta smirked. "Men think they can do whatever they want to us. It''s our duty to put them in their place sometimes."


    Remnya gaped at her and then smiled. "Well, I put those kids in their place."


    Magenta grinned and crossed her fingers. "You mentioned your friend Zeo too. Is he the Anglish boy?"


    "Anglish?" Remnya giggled. "Zeo is just a normal boy with long ears." She tugged her ears. "I''m afraid Liam might hurt him now that I''m not there to protect him."


    "Is this Liam boy dangerous?"


    "Well, Liam and his ugly friends always beat Zeo for no reason, but he is very resilient. Even that time they hit him with a baseball bat. I think his head is made of steel."


    Magenta clasped her hands as she closed her eyes. She stayed pensive for a moment and then spoke. "In that case. We''ll see that your friend Zeo is safe from now on."


    "For real? Can you do that?" Remnya stood up, placing her hands on the table.


    "I can do anything, my dear." Magenta regarded her with a smug smirk.


    "You''re impressive, miss!"


    The lady chuckled. "Please, call me Magenta. We are family now."


    "But, is that all right?"


    "Yes, my dear." Magenta stared deep into her crimson eyes. "A lot of things are about to change for you."


    "It''ll feel weird, but okay." Remnya made a long pause. "Magenta," she mumbled.


    "You''ll get it right soon." Magenta stifled a giggle and then gestured at the cooks waiting by the doorway. Two men in white aprons walked into the hall carrying two big plates in each hand. "Shall we eat now?" the lady asked, beaming at her.


    Remnya bobbed her head eagerly, hypnotized by the delicious smell of that exotic meal.


    *¡ã*¡ã*


    Remnya woke up early that morning and pinched her arm to ensure she wasn''t dreaming again. It had been one week, but she was still skeptical of her new life. She stared at her wardrobe for a while: twenty dresses, twenty-five shirts, fourteen pairs of shoes, and much more. The sight overwhelmed her. She picked the most comfortable clothes and then headed outside.


    The verdant gardens and courtyards were perfect for exploring. Remnya had climbed every tree, smelled every flower, dipped her body in the fountains, and drank their waters¡ªit tasted better than the clean water from the orphanage.


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    However, there were rules. Remnya wasn''t allowed to leave the mansion, entering certain rooms was forbidden, and going to bed early was mandatory. That was what Magenta had told her, and Remnya didn''t want to disappoint the fancy lady. It was a new start, and she had to do things right.


    Strolling through the garden on a warm afternoon, she spotted Marcus standing by a Blackwood tree. He talked to a massive man, one head taller than him and broader. She didn''t recognize the stranger and got closer, trying to see his face.


    When the man turned to her, she flinched, widening her eyes. He was even bigger at that distance. He wore unbuttoned, dirty overalls, and a muscle shirt covered his hairy chest. His arms were thick logs, each one heavier than Remnya''s body, and a thick beard darkened his broad face. Remnya froze when his penetrating black eyes locked on her. His sole presence made her skin crawl.


    "On your way, monkey," Marcus said, stepping in front of him. "You''re making the young lady uncomfortable."


    "No, he''s not," Remnya mumbled.


    The big man kept a stone face and bowed to Remnya before walking away, his heavy feet shaking the ground.


    "That''s wasn''t very nice," Remnya said, putting both hands on her hips.


    "He''s just a servant, young lady." Marcus shrugged. "No need to worry about his feelings."


    "You need to be nicer!" She frowned at him.


    Marcus stared at her, a hint of amusement on his face. "I''ll try, young lady." He smiled at her.


    Remnya curled her lips. Marcus was too strict and often yelled at the servants, insulting and threatening anyone who made a mistake. However, he was a different person around her. She let out a deep sigh and opened her mouth to ask something, but words didn''t dare to come out.


    Marcus observed her hesitant eyes for a moment. "Anything bothering you, Remnya?" he asked, leaning closer.


    Remnya widened her eyes; he had never called her by her name. She lowered her gaze and rubbed her arm. "I don''t know, it just feels weird when adults are nice to me. Everyone here treats me as if I was some kind of princess or something."


    Marcus chuckled. "I don''t know if you are a princess, but you are indeed special."


    "How am I special?" She huffed. "I''m just a normal girl, okay?"


    Marcus grinned and crouched in front of her. "I know it''s hard to believe or even accept it, but you are a Nephilim, and as such, you''re unique."


    Remnya curled her lips and frowned.


    Marcus ruffled her hair, caressing her horns. "I bet Orena and the kids made you believe your horns and tail were a bad thing, right?"


    She looked away but didn''t recoil from his touch. Unlike Magenta''s cold hands, Marcus''s hands felt oddly warm.


    "Being a Nephilim is a wonderful gift of nature, you should know that."


    "I just want to be normal, not the horned witch," Remnya said between teeth and seized her tail. "People hated me before for having horns, and now, all of sudden, everyone likes me for it? Makes no sense!"


    "It doesn''t have to make sense." Marcus stared deep into her eyes. "People always look down on those who are different, mostly because they''re afraid of them. Afraid because of their own insecurities, afraid that person might threaten their pathetic existence or overshadow it. So, they need to make that person miserable." He placed his heavy but tender hand on her shoulder. "But, you can''t allow people to make you feel bad for who you really are, can you?"


    Remnya pressed her lips together, glanced at the mansion, and then back at Marcus. "I don''t think I deserve all this, though, not while my friends are still there . . . "


    "You know, I had been observing you from way before you came here, Remnya. You''ve always protected your friends, even when that meant risking your own well-being. You always tried to do the right thing." Marcus'' perfect teeth gleamed under the orange sun. "You deserve the good things happening to you. You''ve earned it."


    She fixed her eyes on the ground for a moment and sighed. "You''re weird. Why are you nice to me? You don''t even know me." She narrowed her eyes and pointed her finger at his face. "And don''t you dare say ''cuz you are special'' again!" Remnya did her best impression of Marcus'' deep voice.


    He rubbed his chin and stayed pensive for a moment. "I guess it''s because you remind me of my girl."


    "Your girl?"


    He bobbed his head. "My daughter, she''s around your age."


    "You have a daughter? Where is she now?" Remnya tilted her head.


    "Home," Marcus said, looking at the flowers swaying with the breeze. His eyes saddened.


    "Why is she not with you?"


    "She wouldn''t be happy here with me, she''s better off at home, with her mother." Marcus smiled.


    Remnya saw through his smile. His sad eyes weren''t so different from Zeo''s or her own. She knew how it felt to miss someone dear to you. "Maybe I can meet her someday."


    "You two would get along, she''s just as stubborn as you."


    Remnya giggled. "Tell me more about her." She sat on the ground next to Marcus'' feet and beamed at him. "I want to know what the life of a normal girl is like."


    Marcus regarded her with a tender smile. His hand moved on his own, trying to pat her head, but he stopped it. "Alright, young lady . . . " He sat by her, not caring about the dirt on his expensive suit. "But, you will tell me something about you afterward, deal?"


    "Deal!"


    *¡ã*¡ã*


    Marcus


    Twilight had set, and the chaotic melody of blue cicadas announced the end of warm days. The May bugs loved to climb up to the balcony of Magenta''s office on the last floor of the mansion.


    The place had a majestic view of her front garden and the city. She enjoyed relaxing there, drinking champagne, and staring at the Four Heaven Towers, four skyscrapers where multiple shopping malls operated. They glowed in four different colors at night: red, blue, green, and yellow. Only the richest shopped there.


    Marcus stood still behind her, waiting for Magenta to finish her drink. He admired the colorful sight of the city, packed with buildings, blinding lights, and cars slithering like glowing ants through the streets. The Four Towers illuminated the balcony, reflecting on Magenta''s cup as she stared at Marcus through the crystal.


    "Did I hear right, Marcus?" she asked, sipping her drink. "Do you want to send our girl away?"


    "I thought we agreed on that, my lady," Marcus said, holding his hands behind his back.


    "That was before I knew the true value of a Nephilim."


    "With all due respect, Karx is the best place for Remnya. Her abilities would be put to good use."


    "So, you want me to send her to some army of brutes to train her? Into what? A warrior?" She sniggered.


    "A girl like her could change the fate of many."


    "And how do I benefit from it, Marcus?"


    "They will pay a lot, my lady. I can assure you that."


    Magenta stared at his cup and then back at Marcus. "We already have someone willing to pay a lot."


    Marcus gulped as he clenched his fists. "He''s a monster. You can''t allow him to put his hands on her." He raised his voice.


    "A monster willing to pay five million Dentz. I''d be too stupid to reject such a deal."


    "We both know what he wants. You can''t allow¡ª"


    "Whatever he wants is not my problem, Marcus!" Magenta silenced him with a piercing glare.


    Marcus lowered his head.


    The lady stared into the city and finished her champagne. "How do you think we built this?" she asked in a soothing voice.


    "Hard work and sacrifices."


    "Exactly." She strutted toward Marcus and continued her speech, "The more we want to achieve, the more we need to sacrifice . . . and the more we need to do things we don''t like."


    He said nothing and stared vacantly at the city.


    Magenta seized his chin, forcing him to look her way. "Why are you troubled, Marcus?"


    "This is not right."


    "No." She shook her head. "You never cared about what is right or not. You''re worried about the little Nephilim." Magenta scowled. "You''re afraid and hesitating."


    His dark eyes locked on hers in a long, deep gaze. "I just want us to do what is best for everyone . . . And he is not."


    Magenta buried her long nails in his skin. "We are doing what is best for us, Marcus. I don''t like this either, but he''s our best choice." She let go of him and admired the city. "It''s not just money, it''s power! After this, half of this city will belong to us. Do you understand that?"


    "Is it worth it?" he asked bitterly.


    "It is worth it!" Magenta raised her voice, darting a contemptuous glance at him. "We will be more powerful than ever, and the price to pay for it is just . . . one girl."


    Marcus tightened his lips. "Just one girl . . . "


    "You never cared about anyone . . . " Magenta''s voice filled with venom. Her expression darkened, hinting at an old memory that had haunted them both for years. She frowned and asked, "Why now?"


    Marcus opened his mouth, but words didn''t dare to come out. He hesitated and clenched his fists, knowing the true meaning of her question.


    "My dear Marcus." Magenta caressed his face. "Unless you get those brutes from Karx to pay more than him, this is how we''re doing our business. Understood?"


    "Understood." His words were quick and sharp, trying to send that memory back to the depths of their past.


    Marcus''s phone rang in his pocket. He rushed to answer under the intense look of Magenta.


    "Goddamit," Marcus muttered between clenched teeth and hung up. The lady''s eyes penetrated his face in search of answers.


    "Bad news," he said, pressing his fingers around the phone.


    "Who was it?" Magenta''s upper lip twitched.


    "Orena." Marcus let out a deep sigh. "Something bad happened to Remnya''s friend, the Anglish boy."


    *¡ã*¡ã*

 6: Withered Flower

    Zeo


    Unknown voices echoed in the distance, unintelligible words drilling his head, trying to reach his consciousness, a void where death seemed welcoming and called his name like an old friend.


    Yet, Zeo seized the hands of life. His senses awakened, and the warmth of another opportunity filled his cold body.


    It''s not your time yet . . .


    If you leave . . .


    Remnya will be sad . . .


    . . .


    Everything was silent darkness when Zeo overheard the raspy voice of Orena resounding in his head. It kept growing louder until her roar was blaring right in his ears.


    "Hey, four-eyes. Wake up!"


    A flash blinded Zeo as he opened his eyes. He recoiled at the incandescent lights and waited a moment until his pupils adapted to his surroundings.


    Finally, Zeo could recognize the blurred, round figure standing by his right. It was Orena. As he turned to his left, he saw Ellyn rubbing something on his forehead.


    "What happened?" Zeo mumbled weakly.


    "It seems like Liam went too far this time." Ellyn said, pressing a bandage against his head.


    Dizziness and acute pain traveled throughout his skull. He realized he was lying on a bed in the infirmary. He tasted a metallic flavor in his mouth and noticed how the pain lingering in his body was intensifying.


    "I can''t believe you were so stupid!" Orena yelled at Zeo, his voice giving him a headache. "You deserve what happened to you!"


    Zeo lowered his gaze and nodded. He would have slapped himself if his arms had had any strength left. What was I thinking? Trying to be brave?


    "I gotta admit any other kid would be dead in your place, or in a coma," Ellyn said, scanning his body as if witnessing an oddity.


    "Like Butter?" Zeo added, grimacing at the pain.


    Ellyn nodded. "I guess Remnya was right. Your head is as hard as steel."


    Zeo sighed. No matter what Remnya thinks of me. I''m still weak and a coward. "Is Amy okay?" he rushed to ask. Her cries still echoed in his mind.


    "That little rat is fine," Orena answered, glaring at him. "She was here earlier but ran away scared of blood."


    Zeo took a deep breath as relief seemed to spare him some pain.


    The nurse finished treating his wounds while Orena smoked a cigar by the window, filling the room with a dense gray mist. The pain was intense, especially on the left side of his head, which felt like falling apart. Even thinking seemed to hurt.


    "Mrs. Orena!" a caregiver called nervously from the doorway. "Someone wants to see you!"


    "Who?" Orena glared at her, blowing smoke from her nostrils. "Tell them to wait."


    "I tried doing that but he says it''s urgent!"


    The old lady hissed. "I don''t care! I''m on my break right now."


    "But Mrs. Orena¡ª" Before the woman could finish her sentence, a strange man pushed her out of the way and stomped into the infirmary.


    "Mr. Marcus . . . " Orena murmured, dropping her cigarette as her pupils dilated.


    Cold silence engulfed the room.


    Zeo observed that man for a moment until he finally recognized his face. Remnya''s adoptive father, he thought. Zeo tried to sit up, but the excruciating ache made him groan in pain and sent him back to the pillow. Nonetheless, he lifted his torso, aided by his arms, and looked at the gentleman in front of him.


    Nervously, Orena and Ellyn bowed to Marcus, but his expression displayed a killer intent as he bore his gloomy eyes into the ladies.


    "We can expla¡ª"


    "Shut up," Marcus said sharply, giving her a glare that froze everyone in the room. His eyes turned to Zeo, sending shivers down his spine. "So, this Liam kid did this to you?" he asked.


    Zeo hesitated for a moment, but his imposing presence forced him to reply with the truth. "Yes, sir."


    Marcus stared at Orena with disgust. "What the hell were you doing when this happened?"


    "Mr. Marcus, the duties of the orphanage had been overwhelming us lately. We have too much work, and our staff is limited." Orena lowered her head. "I''m truly sorry, sir."


    Marcus remained silent, but his expression told everything they needed to know. His gaze returned to Zeo. "Are you friends with the young lady Remnya?"


    "Young lady Remnya?" Zeo widened his eyes. "Yes, sir, I am! Is she doing well?"


    "She''s doing good. I bet you''d like to see her again, right?"


    "Of course, sir! I miss her a lot!" His heart hastened at the thought of his friend.


    "If that''s the case." Marcus folded his arms. "I need to know if you''re willing to leave this place and work for me back in Crysalton."


    "Really?" Zeo''s jaw dropped. "I''m willing to do anything you need, sir." Ignoring the pain, he bowed to Marcus. "Plus, it''d be a honor to work for you."


    Marcus stifled a chuckle. "Alright. We''ll arrange everything so we can make it possible."


    "Thank you so much, sir!" A smile spread across Zeo''s face, unable to believe there was a chance to see his best friend again.


    "Don''t mention it." Marcus nodded and then glanced at Orena and Ellyn. "Now, we need to talk."


    The women exchanged terrified looks and bobbed their heads, rushing out of the room. Before leaving, Marcus looked back at Zeo and gave him a thumbs up. Zeo smiled and bowed again.


    The conversation had made him forget the pain for a moment, but now it was back. Slowly, Zeo leaned his head on the pillow and stared at the ceiling. Only the buzzing of a fluorescent lamp accompanied him in the room, but the thought of his best friend warmed his heart.


    Zeo took a deep breath and allowed the silence to clear his mind. He wanted to see Remnya again, but that meant leaving Amy behind. The little girl was her last friend in the orphanage, and he had sworn to protect her, even if that meant weeks of pain.


    The consequences of her reckless decision began to invade her head, and the idea of working for Marcus didn''t seem as great anymore.


    *¡ã*¡ã*


    Remnya


    On the second week, the lunch with Magenta went by with little to no words until Maria broke into the hall and whispered something in the lady''s ear. Magenta excused herself, saying she had business to attend to, and from the look on her face, it seemed to be something urgent. She left Remnya alone to finish the delicious meal.


    Making sure no one saw her, Remnya finished Magenta''s portion too. She stretched her arms and smiled in satisfaction; she had never eaten so much in her life.


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    Brisa stood nearby and looked at her with disdain. Magenta had ordered her to show Remnya the way back to her room. No matter how many times she wandered that fancy labyrinth, she still got lost.


    "Hurry!" Brisa shouted, leaving the hall before Remnya could say a word.


    The maid hastened through the corridors in silence. Her gold eyes fixated straight ahead as if Remnya wasn''t there. Unlike Maria, Brisa never smiled and dressed in darker colors. Her dress had a gothic style and combined an exotic design of black with yellow shades. She wore black heels that made her look even taller and a gold necklace with a rune-shaped symbol.


    "Can I go to the garden?" Remnya asked. A walk after a good meal was great for digestion; that''s what Zeo always said.


    Brisa ignored her request and sped up her pace.


    Remnya repeated the question but still didn''t get an answer. "Hey, I asked you a question!" she raised her voice.


    "No," Brisa said in a cutting voice.


    Remnya curled her lips and kept walking in tense silence until they arrived at her room. Brisa pushed the door open and folded her arms, waiting for Remnya to get inside.


    "I wanna go for a walk. You don''t even have to come, just tell me how to get to the garden." Remnya placed her hands on her hips.


    "No, you''re going to your room." Brisa pointed at the interior of the room. "Go, Nephilim!"


    "Don''t call me that!"


    "You''re a Nephilim. That''s why you have those." Brisa grabbed her horns.


    "No!" Remnya slapped her hands away and scowled. "And I told you, I just wanna go for a walk."


    "Look, I don''t care about what you want." She raised her voice, narrowing her eyes. "You even got your own TV and laptop there to entertain yourself. Just stay in your room, Nephilim!"


    Remnya glared at her and took one step forward. "I won''t stay in my room."


    Brisa scoffed and looked down her nose at her. "I don''t know how you brats did things in that disgusting place you came from, but you''ll need to learn some manners here."


    "You''re the one who needs to learn manners!" Remnya yelled, pointing her finger at her face.


    The maid clenched her fists as her face turned red. "Honestly, I don''t understand why the lady bought a brat like you."


    "Bought me? What the heck are you talking about, ugly girl?"


    "Ugly girl?" Brisa stepped forward and placed her index finger on Remnya''s chin. "Now listen to me, you little b¡ª!"


    "That''s enough." A soft but firm voice surprised Remnya, who was about to bite Brisa''s finger.


    A man dressed in a casual midnight blue suit walked toward them. He seemed to be in his mid-twenties. His perfect smile emanated confidence, and his mysterious blue eyes looked like a deep ocean.


    "Are we having a problem here, Brisa?" he asked, standing next to the maid. He was shorter than her.


    "Mr. Ronner?" Brisa stepped backward, widening her eyes as if she saw a ghost. "We were talking," she mumbled.


    "I heard the young lady wanted to do something." He glared at Brisa and then looked at Remnya from the corner of his eyes.


    "Yes, sir. I was just explaining a few things to her," Brisa said. Her upper body was stiff, and her legs trembled.


    Ronner turned to Remnya with a tender smile. "What did you need, young Remnya?"


    "I-Uh," Remnya stuttered as she scanned the handsome man in awe. "I wanted to go for a walk, mister."


    "And you can, young lady. This place is your new home." Ronner squatted in front of her and leaned closer. "Perhaps, did Brisa tell you otherwise?"


    Remnya glanced at Brisa. The maid was pale, with her gaze fixed on him. "No . . . she didn''t."


    He looked deep into Remnya''s eyes. His blue gaze was intense, almost hypnotic. "Are you sure?"


    Brisa gulped and stared at Remnya, her eyes asking for help. "Yes, mister. She was just explaining some things to me." Remnya smiled at him.


    "That''s great!" Ronner seized Brisa''s hand and squeezed it. "She''s a good girl. I hope you get to know her better." He increased the pressure on her hand until her fingers turned white. "Remember, they are your servants too, and they will do as you please, whenever you please."


    "My servants?" Remnya gaped at him.


    "I guess Magenta assumed you already knew this." Ronner chuckled. "Forgive her. She can be oblivious sometimes."


    Remnya giggled. "No, it''s okay!"


    Ronner ruffled her hair and gave her a perfect bright smile. "I promise I will make sure you''re happy and get everything you need here, okay?"


    Remnya blushed and looked away. She didn''t trust most people, but his words and soothing voice calmed her down. Plus, his eyes made her feel safe and comfortable. "Thank you, mister." She nodded.


    Ronner winked at her and stood up. "Do I need to say anything else, Brisa?" He gave the maid a sidelong glance.


    "No, Mr. Ronner. I understand." Brisa bowed, her voice soft and submissive.


    "We will meet again, young Remnya." Ronner caressed Remnya''s face one last time and walked away.


    Remnya hated to be touched, but she didn''t feel the need to move away from him. She watched him disappear at the end of the hallway.


    Brisa let out a deep breath and wiped the sweat off her forehead with a handkerchief. She turned to Remnya and lowered her head. "I apologize, young lady," she said, resignation in her voice.


    Remnya noticed how the pink on Brisa''s cheeks returned. "Who was that?"


    "Mr. Ronner . . . " Brisa shuddered. "Lady Magenta''s boyfriend."


    "What?" Remnya''s jaw dropped. "Is not he too young for her?" She scratched her head.


    Brisa flinched as if Remnya had said the worst kind of blasphemy. "Anyhow!" She smiled, placing her hands on Remnya''s shoulder. "Let''s go for a walk?"


    Remnya tilted her head and stared at Brisa; she looked like a different person. Her perfect teeth highlighted her smooth bronze skin and the exotic features on her face. "You should smile more."


    Brisa rolled her eyes as her smile faded. "Yes, I should . . . I really should."


    *¡ã*¡ã*


    Remnya opened a heavy math book and grimaced at it. She had begun to take private classes. Magenta had told her she needed to learn everything a kid her age would learn at school and more, such as proper manners and knowledge of her new lifestyle in the mansion.


    Math and sciences in the morning and what Remnya called ''fancy lady training'' in the afternoon. There was no time to wander the gardens or climb anymore.


    Her teachers demanded her to dress properly, but arguing with them was funnier than obeying. However, one morning, when a teacher yelled at her and called her a freak, Marcus smashed his head against a wall and choked him, whereas Remnya had to stop him.


    Unlike before, other people suffered the consequences of her wild nature. Remnya tried to behave better, fearing Marcus would kill someone one day.


    Only Brisa enjoyed the situation. She always had a mocking smirk for Remnya. Ever since that incident with Ronner, the maid seemed resentful. Her condescending eyes emanated jealousy, and her commentaries were full of poison.


    It was the first winter morning when Remnya got out of bed. She had insomnia thinking about her upcoming test and decided to wander the garden to relax. Unfortunately, the doors were locked, so her next option was to stroll the mansion until sunrise.


    The mansion was a different world at that time. Its main lights were off, but the hallways were still illuminated by rows of beautiful crystal lights placed along the walls. Such a sight was relaxing and pleasant for the eyes. The longer hallways glowed in a tenuous creamy tone, while the shorter ones did in a soft blue or pink.


    Sobs coming from a room caught Remnya''s attention. She tiptoed toward a half-open door and sneaked her head behind the wall to peep inside.


    The sight took her breath away. It was Brisa''s room. Being too entertained by the mesmerizing lights, Remnya hadn''t realized she was at the maid''s dorm.


    Brisa lay on a loveseat next to a window in the corner of her room. She was still, covering her face with a cushion. I can''t be wrong. I heard someone crying! Remnya assumed she was pretending to be asleep and had to find out why.


    "Brisa, are you okay?" Remnya took one step into the room, but the maid remained still.


    Remnya walked closer to have a better look and gasped when she caught a glimpse of her clothes; her beautiful black dress was torn around her waist and hips, while her knee socks were all ripped. Remnya shook her head, refusing to believe her eyes.


    Bruises and red finger marks covered Brisa''s wrists, forearms, and thighs.


    "Brisa? What happened?" Remnya asked, freezing next to her.


    The more Remnya inspected her body, the more she found traces of pain. Blood had dried in her inner thighs and knees and had stained her seat.


    An avalanche of hurtful memories crushed Remnya''s heart. She had been in her place so many times. Her own bruises stung at the sight of that poor girl in front of her.


    "Talk to me, tell me what happened!"


    Remnya scanned her surroundings. Everything else looked normal and ordered in the room. With a trembling hand, she reached out for the cushion and uncovered Brisa''s face. Remnya felt slightly relieved her face wasn''t hurt.


    The maid slowly opened her eyes and gave her a blank stare. Her eyes were irritated, tired, and sadder than usual. If she had been the one crying, she was doing a great job hiding it now.


    "What do you want, brat?" Brisa muttered, her voice thin like a thread.


    "What happened?"


    "Nothing. Leave me alone . . . " She closed her eyes.


    "You''re hurt, and your dress is . . . " Remnya frowned. "Something happened! Hey!"


    "Whatever happened is none of your business!" Brisa raised her voice for a second, and then it faded again. "Leave me alone."


    "Who hurt you? Was it Marcus?" Remnya asked as her heart raced. She had seen Marcus slapping the servants before, but he had never beaten anyone like this.


    "Marcus? No, he would never do something like this."


    "Tell me who! Whoever did this needs to be yelled at!" Remnya shouted.


    "Remnya, can you please shut up? I wanna be alone." Brisa opened her eyes and glared at her.


    Her refusal to talk was angering Remnya. She was about to yell at her when tears began rolling down Brisa''s cheeks. She was gritting her teeth, trying to hold them back, but it was futile.


    Remnya lowered her eyes as a burning pain oppressed her chest. She clenched her fists, not knowing what to do. "Let me help you."


    "If you want to help me, leave me alone . . . Please," Brisa whispered as her voice cracked. She covered her face with both hands.


    Remnya reached out for her, trying to caress her head, the same way she did when Zeo cried. However, she stopped, afraid of hurting her further. Feeling powerless and useless, she decided it was better to do as Brisa asked.


    She began walking away but stopped at the doorway to glance over her shoulder at her for the last time. "You know . . . " She hesitated but managed to untie the knot in her throat. "You can come to my room and take a bath if you want, and . . . I have some clothes you could wear."


    Brisa didn''t seem to be listening. She was trembling, trying to muffle her sobs, but they only became louder.


    "I''ll be there if you need me, Brisa," Rem said in a defeated voice, lowering her head as she left the room.


    Remnya headed back to her room, a turmoil in her head. Who would do this? Brisa might not be the nicest person, but hurting her is wrong! It''s very wrong!


    Remnya slammed the door of her room and dropped onto her bed. She curled up and covered her face with the blankets. Remnya hoped Brisa would listen to her. She wanted to help her more than anything in the world, but there was little a brat like herself could do.


    The stress had drained all her energy, and finally, Remnya fell asleep.


    *¡ã*¡ã*

 7: Dawn

    Remnya


    Nightmares plagued Remnya''s head as she turned over in bed and sweated through the cold morning. She almost missed her classes but woke up in time thanks to Maria. Despite the concern in her head, Remnya passed her test, impressing her teacher, who always thought she was dense and distracted.


    However, Remnya didn''t care about grades. As soon as her classes ended, she wandered the mansion in search of answers.


    She questioned Maria and the rest of the servants, but no one knew anything. "Where are Magenta and Marcus?" Remnya asked as she strode through the corridor.


    "Lady Magenta is out, she left yesterday and is not coming back until tomorrow," Maria said, struggling to follow Remnya. "And Mr. Marcus is busy with work right now."


    "Why didn''t you tell me sooner?" Remnya opened a door, peeked inside, and then slammed it.


    "I didn''t think¡ª"


    "You never think!" Remnya cut her off with a glare. "What about Mr. Ronner?"


    "Mr. Ronner is, uh . . . " Maria smiled and looked away.


    "What?"


    "I honestly don''t know where he is, young lady. I apologize." Maria bowed to her, her purple dress dancing nervously around her legs.


    "You don''t know?" Remnya scowled at her and exhaled deeply. "Find him right now!" she yelled, her voice echoing throughout every hall.


    Maria widened her eyes as her smile faded. "As you wish, young lady." She bowed again and dashed toward the garden.


    Remnya realized how loud she had been speaking, or rather, shouting orders. That was not her. She sounded like Marcus. After spending so much time with him, she had begun to pick up some of his habits. At that rate, she would start hitting the servants too.


    Remnya dropped to a couch and bit her lower lip.


    I should apologize to Maria. She did nothing wrong.


    After a short wait, Ronner stepped into the room. He looked sleepy, and his hair was a stylish mess. He was wearing a black t-shirt and jeans. Remnya had never seen him without his impeccable blue suit. Despite his short stature, his arms were huge and dense like rocks.


    "Good morning, beautiful," he said, his teeth sparkling.


    "Mr. Ronner!" Remnya shouted, running up to him with a wide smile. "There''s a problem!"


    "Tell me about it." He messed up her hair and sat on the couch next to her.


    Remnya did her best to explain the situation. Ronner listened in silence, yawning and rubbing his eyes. His face remained expressionless as Remnya revealed the awful details.


    "Who could do something like that, Mr. Ronner?"


    Ronner rubbed his chin and kept a serious expression. He glanced at the door, over the windows, and finally, his blue orbs halted on Remnya''s crimson gaze.


    "I think I know who did this."


    "Who?"


    "Marcus."


    "What?" Remnya''s face froze as her breath stopped. "No way, he wouldn''t . . . "


    "He said he would punish Brisa for having broken some jewelry. I forbid him from doing so, but he''s a stubborn man." Ronner sighed.


    Remnya shook her head nervously. "But . . . Brisa told me he didn''t."


    "Of course. She''s scared of him, no way she would admit it. He would beat her again and fire her from the mansion."


    "But . . . " Remnya held her head in her hands. Her chest hurt as her feelings wrestled each other in a vicious fight.


    "I know it''s hard to believe, but it''s true. I had hoped you didn''t have to see her like that. I''m sorry, my girl." Ronner wrapped his arms around her.


    Remnya gripped him and leaned her head on his perfumed chest. She wanted to scream, but Ronner''s heartbeats calmed her down. "Where is Brisa now?" she whispered.


    "Home." Ronner ruffled her hair. "She''s recovering. Fortunately, it''s not serious, and she will be back soon."


    "I''m glad to hear that." Remnya felt slightly relieved and forced a smile.


    "Though, Marcus." Ronner shook his head and narrowed his eyes. "He needs to be punished for this."


    Remnya clenched her fists and hesitated to speak. "Even if Brisa made a mistake, hurting her was wrong."


    He caressed her face and lifted her chin to look into her eyes. "Don''t be sad about it. I''ll do everything I can to find a fair solution. Brisa will recover, and Marcus will learn his lesson."


    Remnya nodded slowly and then realized how tight she was holding Ronner. His body felt like a rock.


    She released him. "Sorry."


    "You''re really something, aren''t you?" Ronner chuckled.


    She blushed and looked away.


    "Now, if you excuse me, I have a business to attend. We will meet again later, okay?" He kissed her forehead, beamed at her, and left the room.


    Remnya''s whole face turned bright red as her heart jumped to her throat. She didn''t know how to react. Remnya fell on the couch and buried her face in the cushions.


    "Everything is so confusing here!" she yelled and punched the couch with all her strength, almost ripping the velvet apart. "Marcus . . . Did you really do something like this?"


    *¡ã*¡ã*


    Zeo


    A case of theft: this story is not rightfully on Amazon; if you spot it, report the violation.


    The days had been long and painful, but Zeo recovered. His regenerative capabilities never ceased to amaze the doctors. Orena ordered the caregivers to find him a new room where he could be alone. Zeo didn''t understand; the old lady had never cared about him.


    The kids still made fun of him, but without Liam around, the cruel pranks had stopped. He hadn''t seen his bully in weeks, and Santi always ignored him, even when Zeo tried to talk to him.


    That night, he sat with Amy and her friends in a corner of the dining hall. Since Rem''s departure, Amy clung to him more than ever, making him feel like an older brother. Zeo enjoyed her company and felt guilty for worrying her so much.


    When the little girls finished, he offered to wash their dishes and headed to the kitchen. Everyone had to be in their rooms after dinner. Hence the corridors felt as still as the night. However, two familiar voices caught his attention; a girl arguing with an adult. Zeo assumed the caregivers were scolding someone for being out of their room.


    Though, the girl''s voice revealed a hint of desperation and fear. Unable to ignore it, Zeo left the plates on the floor and turned toward the old dorms where some caregivers spent the night.


    Near a dark corridor, he found Gina arguing with a caregiver called Coscu. He was one of the few males working in the orphanage: a tall, slender man without a single hair that made his head look like a shiny egg. Coscu''s reputation was questionable, but Orena wanted the cheapest staff she could get.


    Coscu held Gina by the arm and leaned closer to her face, whispering. She recoiled with disgust at each one of his approaches, which caused him to become more aggressive.


    Zeo knew Remnya and every other girl hated that man. Coscu had made a habit of watching the young girls playing every morning and made them uncomfortable with his penetrating eyes.


    Suddenly, Coscu slapped Gina across the face, almost sending her to the ground in tears. However, he caught her and tried to drag her to his room.


    Unable to understand the situation, Zeo''s body moved on its own, knowing something was wrong. Even though his flight instincts kicked in, his heart pushed him forward mindlessly.


    "What are you doing?" Words escaped his mouth while his heart kicked wildly against his ribcage.


    Coscu turned to him with a glare. "What are you doing here, brat? Go back to your room before I give you a beating too!"


    Zeo realized how stupid his behavior was being, and for a moment, decided to walk away, but Gina spoke to him, "Don''t let him do it, please . . . " Tears rolled down her cheeks. "Help me!"


    Silence.


    At that moment, an unknown feeling took over Zeo''s body, and he walked forward, clenching his fists. "Leave her alone," he muttered, trembling. Zeo knew that man wasn''t trying to punish her; he wanted something else.


    Coscu''s face turned red with anger. He pushed Gina violently against the wall and stomped toward Zeo.


    The time slowed.


    What would Remnya do?


    The bald man loomed over him and raised his fist, ready to strike him.


    Again, Zeo''s body moved on its own and dodged Coscu''s punches skillfully before running toward Gina. He grabbed her hand, helping her to stand up, and dragged her with him toward the exit corridor.


    Coscu chased them, shouting out curses and threats. His long legs, trained by countless escapes from the police, were much faster than theirs.


    "You go ahead," Zeo said firmly, without thinking, and faced the monster behind them.


    "Zeo, you''re crazy!" Gina tried to grab his arm to take him with her, but Zeo pushed her away.


    "Please, go . . . " he murmured, fighting the fear paralyzing his body.


    Gina hesitated for a moment, but as Coscu closed the distance between them, she obeyed and ran away.


    She shouted something, but Zeo couldn''t hear her anymore. Everything was spinning around him, and pain traveled through his head. Zeo staggered and leaned on the wall, and then another blow crushed his jaw, sending him to the ground.


    Coscu tried to run after Gina. But from the ground, Zeo snatched his ankles, causing the man to fall like a tower and hit his head violently against the floor. He let out a groan of anger and pain while Zeo took advantage of his confusion to escape.


    His heart kicked against his ribs, and his legs burned, but Zep ran as fast as he could, not looking behind until he reached his new room.


    Zeo locked the place and leaned against the wooded door, panting loudly as his brain began to comprehend the consequences of what he had just done.


    Nonetheless, deep in him, Zeo knew he had done the right thing.


    *¡ã*¡ã*


    The night felt eternal until Zeo''s heart calmed down, and he could finally rest, hoping the hairless monster didn''t try to open his door.


    In the morning, he woke up sore, with a metallic taste in his mouth. He washed his teeth and observed the contusion on his cheekbone. Being used to pain and bruises, he shrugged it off, changed clothes, and gathered the strength to walk outside. It was time to face the consequences of his crazy actions.


    The halls felt weirdly calm and silent, and everyone ignored him as he crossed the main corridor. Zeo took a broom from the cleaning room and began sweeping the floors, wondering when the caregivers would punish him and how harsh it would be.


    In the distance, he spotted Gina walking along with her friends. His face turned red, thinking about how stupid he must have looked last night. Gina''s friends left, and then she trotted toward him. Zeo hid his face behind a door and pretended not to see her, but she grabbed his shoulder and forced him to turn at her.


    "You!" she said, scowling.


    "I''m sorry." Those were the only words that dared to come out of his mouth.


    Gina giggled. "I wanted to thank you." She smiled.


    Zeo''s cheeks turned red like a tomato as he averted his eyes from her intense gaze.


    "If you weren''t there, I don''t know what would have happened to me."


    "I . . . did nothing," he stammered.


    "I thought you''d run for help or something, but I never imagined you''d dare to face that ugly pervert." She stifled a chuckle and grabbed his chin, lifting his face to stare into his eyes. "Why, though? I''ve always been a bitch to you."


    Zeo forced himself to look at her and realized she wasn''t as scary anymore. He had never seen her freckles before, and her undyed black hair in a long ponytail looked better than her blonde and pink mess.


    "I don''t know," he said. "It was stupid."


    Gina shook her head. "No, you were brave. Braver than any other guy here." She beamed at him. "I don''t understand why you allow everyone to hurt you, though."


    "Because I am not brave . . . " Zeo clenched his fists.


    "I was wrong about you." Gina bit her lips and averted her coffee-brown eyes. "I am sorry about what happened that day . . . I promise I never asked Liam to hurt you. He came out of nowhere and did that!"


    "I know. Liam hates me, so it''s okay. No hard feelings." Zeo smiled, clasping his sweaty hands.


    "I want to make up to you." She snatched the broom from his hands. "You go read or do any of your nerdy things. I''ll clean the floors for you."


    Zeo widened his eyes. "No, no, it''s okay!" He tried to take the broom back from her, but she dodged his clumsy attempts.


    "I said I will do it!" Gina faked an angry face. "Unless, you want to fight me again?" She winked, making Zeo blush and choke.


    "Uh . . . " he stammered, unable to find words.


    The floor shook under his feet.


    "There you are!" Orena roared, stomping toward them in the distance.


    "Oh, crap," Gina whispered. "The stupid old hag."


    "I''m done for," Zeo said, sighing with resignation.


    "I''ll defend you!" Gina wrapped her arm around Zeo in a friendly way, but he froze, feeling his cheeks about to burst in embarrassment.


    "Why didn''t you tell me, you punk?" Orena shoved her index finger on Zeo''s chest.


    "I''m sorry, miss." Zeo bowed to the old lady. "But I did it to help someone."


    "Coscu is a pervert!" Gina shouted angrily. "He was asking me to take my clothes off and then asked me to accompany him to his room!"


    "What were you doing out of your room, anyway?" Orena questioned, giving her a dirty look.


    "Coscu told me he needed help in the kitchen and didn''t even let me have dinner. All he wanted was me cooking for him!"


    Orena pointed her finger at Gina and opened her mouth to yell, yet she remained silent and spoke softly, "No one can know about this."


    "Why?" Zeo asked.


    "Because I say so!" Orena roared, threatening to slap him. "You keep quiet about this or there will be consequences!" She turned to Gina. "The same goes for you, brat. And if you don''t want stuff like this happening again, better start dressing more modestly. That way, you won''t attract unnecessary attention." The old lady turned her back to them. "And we won''t talk about this again!"


    She stomped away while Gina and Zeo exchanged confused looks. Once again, anger seemed to fill his chest, and words almost escaped his mouth, but he slammed his hand on his lips to remain silent.


    "That old bitch. I hate her!" Gina snapped, flipping Orena off until the old lady disappeared in the corridor.


    Zeo swallowed his anger and let out a deep sigh. "I don''t care what she says. I won''t let him hurt you or Amy or anyone else," he said, a fire burning in his chest. "I''m tired of this . . . " For the first time, Zeo felt no shame in his words and didn''t care about the consequences.


    Gina widened her eyes as if she was looking at someone else, someone braver, not a coward. Finally, a shy smile drew across her face. "Thank you."


    *¡ã*¡ã*

 8: An Eye For An Eye

    Ronner


    Ronner woke up early that day and noticed Magenta had already left his bed. He stretched his arms and opened the curtains, allowing the sunlight to bathe his room. His balcony provided a panoramic view of the city hills and their blueish tones, covered by dense urbanization.


    Every morning, Ronner enjoyed sitting by the window, drinking his finest wine, and tasting the flavor of success. But there was something to do first. Magenta rarely woke up earlier than him, so he headed to her office to confirm his suspicions.


    The servants bowed as he walked past them, smiling and winking at the girls. Their submissive looks never got old; he had earned them. Yet something was missing in his palace.


    Ronner arrived at Magenta¡¯s office and found The Lady talking on her phone. She paced around the room, scowling and kicking things out of her way. He shook his head, knowing the reason behind her behavior.


    Magenta finally hung up by smashing her mobile on the floor, the sixth one in one week. ¡°That stupid pig!¡± she roared. ¡°How dare he speak to me like that?¡±


    ¡°I guess this is a bad moment to talk,¡± Ronner said, smirking.


    ¡°He doesn¡¯t wanna wait anymore and is threatening me! I should put a bullet in his fucking brain!¡± Magenta seized a crystal cup and smashed it against a wall. Ronner watched how sparkly glass debris fell to his feet, amusement on his face.


    ¡°You need to relax, baby.¡±


    ¡°Shut up, idiot!¡± she yelled, her pale face red like a tomato.


    Ronner laughed and grabbed a bottle of Red Fire from a Blackwood shelf. ¡°He can say whatever he wants, but we¡¯re the ones who own the Nephilim.¡±


    ¡°This is Marcus¡¯ fault.¡± Magenta scoffed, allowing Ronner to fill her cup with the exotic beverage.


    Ronner rolled his eyes and shook his head.


    Magenta strutted toward her balcony with her eyes fixed on the city. ¡°He promised me those brutes from Karx would pay more than him.¡±


    ¡°Bullshit. No army from Karx has that much money.¡±


    ¡°We should at least try . . . ¡° Magenta sipped her drink as she glanced at Ronner.


    ¡°Why bother? The stupid pig is our best option. He has the money and contacts we need.¡± Ronner walked up to Magenta. He rested his chin on her shoulder and whispered, ¡°You don¡¯t believe in Karx. You¡¯re only doing this because of that sullen butler of yours.¡±


    ¡°He¡¯s not a butler, he is a¡ª¡±


    ¡°Yes, I know.¡± Ronner cut her off, wrapping his arms around her waist. ¡°You keep him around because you still hold some affection for him. Am I wrong?¡± His voice was calm, but with an edge to it.


    She remained silent, focused on the Four Towers, drawing tangled shadows over the roads. ¡°I promised to give him a chance, and I will. If they don¡¯t convince me, nothing will change.¡± Magenta leaned her head back and bit his cheek. ¡°But you¡¯re right. I have a soft spot for him. Does that bother you?¡±


    Ronner stifled a chuckle as he tightened his grasp around her. ¡°I already told you can sleep with him. I don¡¯t care.¡±


    Magenta pushed Ronner away and leaned on the black marble railing. ¡°He¡¯s offered himself to finish your dirty job. You should be more grateful.¡±


    ¡°I am! This way, I got more time with you.¡± Ronner stood next to her and sniffed her hair. ¡°So, when is he doing it?¡±


    ¡°Soon . . . ¡°


    ¡°See? He still loves you,¡± Ronner said, running his fingers through her garnet hair. ¡°No more than I do, of course.¡± He sniggered.


    Magenta seized his fingers. ¡°Ah, Ron . . . Don¡¯t believe I¡¯ve forgotten what you did.¡±


    ¡°You mean the little incident with your maid?¡±


    ¡°Little? Remnya saw it, big stupid!¡± Magenta glared at him.


    ¡°Don¡¯t worry, she was happy with my explanation.¡± Ronner beamed, his teeth shining under the sun. ¡°Rem is such a sweetie, honestly. It¡¯ll be hard for me to let her go.¡±


    ¡°Next time, hide your mess from her.¡±


    ¡°My bad, I got carried away.¡± Ronner caressed her hips and whispered in her ear, ¡°Can¡¯t help it, okay? She keeps tempting me.¡±


    ¡°It doesn¡¯t matter, she¡¯s disposable.¡±


    ¡°Is she?¡± Ronner raised one eyebrow. ¡°Like those pathetic puppets from the orphanage?¡±


    She nodded. ¡°They couldn¡¯t even take proper care of the boy. Last night, they had another incident with one of their caregivers. Why are commoners so useless?¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t worry. I will take care of that bald pedophile personally.¡±


    ¡°You better do, and I don¡¯t care what you do with the rest of them, either.¡±


    ¡°I know. Everyone is disposable here . . . Everyone but you . . . ¡° Magenta moaned as Ronner yanked her body against his. ¡°Even myself.¡± He smirked and slid his hands down her inner thighs.


    ¡°You think so? I¡¯ve always thought hybrid Nephilims like you had some appeal,¡± Magenta whispered and turned to kiss him. Ronner was rough, but she didn¡¯t seem to mind.


    If you only knew, dear Magenta . . .


    They spent the rest of the morning in the office.


    *¡ã*¡ã*


    Marcus


    This tale has been unlawfully lifted from Royal Road. If you spot it on Amazon, please report it.


    Dusk fell over the orphanage as the old orange lamps lit up the empty street, while a timid breeze dragged chunks of clouds through the sky, preluding what would be the coldest night in months.


    Marcus stood by his car, smoking as he stared vacantly at the building in the distance, where Orena and Ellyn awaited his arrival.


    He took the first step forward and crossed the iron gates.


    Without kids, the front yard looked deserted, and only an orange lamp post illuminated his face and drew awkward shadows across the dry soil.


    Marcus stood by the entrance door, puffing his cigarette, and tried to ring the rusted doorbell, but before his finger could touch the metal, the door opened, and Orena rushed outside with a wide smile.


    ¡°Mr. Marcus, welcome!¡± the old woman greeted him. She had dressed in a new long dress, styled her ragged gray hair, and applied cheap make-up to cover her wrinkles.


    He looked at her with vacant eyes and blew a smoke cloud into the sky. ¡°I heard the boy is doing well,¡± Marcus said softly.


    ¡°He is!¡± Orena nodded eagerly. ¡°We kept him out of trouble, as promised.¡±


    ¡°Good.¡± He smothered his cigarette in his palm and stared deep into the empty front yard. ¡°Do you ever miss her?¡±


    ¡°Who?¡± Orena gave him a confused look and then reacted to his question. ¡°Oh! Remnya? I do, I do!¡± She laughed.


    ¡°How is she doing?¡± Ellyn asked, sneaking up from behind the doorway.


    ¡°Shut up, woman!¡± Orena yelled.


    ¡°She seems happy,¡± Marcus replied.


    Ellyn gave him a half-smile while Orena glared at her.


    ¡°What brings you here, Mr. Marcus?¡± the old woman asked, rubbing her hands together. They both knew the meaning of his visit very well.


    ¡°I need you to accompany me. Lady Magenta has a present for you two.¡± Marcus began walking toward his car, motioning for them to follow him. Orena and Ellyn exchanged looks and did as he asked.


    Marcus opened the backdoor and invited them to get in. Without questions, Orena went first, eager to ride in such a luxurious vehicle, but Ellyn seemed hesitant and glanced at Marcus several times. The old woman shouted at her to hurry, so she had no choice but to obey.


    Blueish headlights swept the asphalt as they left the orphanage.


    They drove through the town for a while. The cold streets felt desolated, except for the homeless people sleeping on the sidewalk. Marcus had kept his window open all the time, turning the car into a freezer with wheels. Ellyn sat on her hands to warm them up and looked around nervously. Though Orena didn¡¯t seem to mind, as revealed by the smirk on her face.


    ¡°Can I ask what is it, Mr. Marcus? Our presents?¡± Orena asked, leaning closer to the driver¡¯s seat.


    ¡°Soon,¡± Marcus said, offering a lit cigarette to the old woman. Her eyes shone; his cigarettes were of the best quality.


    Finally, the car stopped in front of an old building in a poor neighborhood near the border with Crysalton; it was an ancient structure and looked abandoned with its decaying walls and broken windows.


    A rusted lamp post illuminated the corner of the street, but the rest of the neighborhood was total darkness and silence, except for the barking of stray dogs in the distance and the sound of the chilly wind freezing their bones.


    Marcus opened the back door and asked the ladies to follow him. Orena did it without hesitation, but Ellyn stood still next to the car, looking up at the building looming over her.


    ¡°Anything wrong?¡± Marcus asked, scanning Ellyn¡¯s sweaty face.


    Silence.


    ¡°What are you trying to do?¡± Ellyn mumbled, narrowing her eyes at him, and took one step backward.


    Marcus tilted his head, unamused.


    ¡°I swear to God!¡± Orena snapped and seized her arm, trying to yank her toward the building.


    ¡°Don¡¯t be stupid!¡± Ellyn shook her hand off her and pointed at Marcus. ¡°That man is up to something!¡±


    ¡°Shut up!¡± Orena slapped Ellyn twice. Her heavy hands caused the scrawny woman to stagger and fall on the cracked sidewalk. ¡°You idiot, you¡¯re ruining everything!¡±


    Marcus gave Ellyn a pitiful glance, knowing the children in the orphanage took those hits daily.


    ¡°Please forgive her stupidity, Mr. Marcus,¡± the old woman said. ¡°She¡¯s still a pathetic kid!¡± Orena glared at Ellyn, full of contempt.


    ¡°The nurse doesn¡¯t have to come if she doesn¡¯t want to,¡± he said, paying scarce attention to the scene. ¡°Let¡¯s go.¡±


    Ellyn sat up and touched her bleeding lips. She glared at Orena, who just flipped her off and entered the building.


    As the woman went ahead, Marcus stood by the door, waiting for his remaining guest.


    Ellyn wiped the blood off her mouth and stood up, but as soon as she tried to walk away, a massive, dark figure bumped into her.


    Her face turned pale when Gorth loomed over her, with his pitch-black eyes penetrating her soul. Ellyn leaped back and tried to run away, but he seized her arm.


    ¡°What are you doing?¡± Ellyn yelled, pulling her arm away from him in a futile attempt to break free.


    He wrapped his massive arms around her thin body and picked her up as if she was a mere rag doll.


    ¡°Let me go!¡± she screamed, twisting her body. ¡°Please, someone! Help!¡±


    The wind blew her words away as Gorth carried her inside before the uninterested gaze of Marcus.


    An empty room with a crumbled roof and rotten walls waited for them. Marcus and Gorth knew words were needless; they had to finish the job that started with Remnya¡¯s adoption.


    Ellyn froze when she witnessed Orena kneeling in front of Marcus. ¡°Why, Mr. Marcus? WHY? I did everything I was told!¡± The old woman trembled and cried like a little kid. She held her hands together and begged, ¡°Please, Mr. Marcus! Forgive me!¡±


    ¡°Orders from Lady Magenta,¡± Marcus replied coldly as he stared at Orena with an unreadable expression.


    ¡°No! The boss wouldn¡¯t do this! I worked so hard for her, please!¡± Orena screamed, bending to the floor. It was a pathetic sight; the mighty director Orena begged like any of those orphans she punished with vicious ease.


    Gorth threw Ellyn into a corner like a bag of flesh. She leaned against the wall and curled up her body. She seemed to want to cry, but tears didn¡¯t dare to fall. She just trembled and sweated under the heavy gaze of Gorth.


    ¡°What are you gonna do with us?¡± Ellyn stammered as if terrified of the answer.


    ¡°I hate hurting women,¡± Marcus started, handing a pair of black gloves to Gorth. ¡°So, be glad it¡¯s us and not Ronner doing this.¡± He pointed at Orena, who sobbed on the floor. ¡°Knowing him, he¡¯d do a bloody mess with you.¡± Then he stared at Ellyn. ¡°And with you, Ronner would . . . ¡° Marcus tightened his lips and then glanced at Gorth. ¡°Don¡¯t you agree?¡±


    ¡°He gives me the creeps,¡± Gorth said, stretching the gloves on his massive fingers.


    Orena crawled over Marcus¡¯ feet and kissed them. ¡°Please! I beg you, Mr. Marcus, forgive me! I¡¯ve always been loyal to the boss! I never meant to hurt Remnya! I¡¯m so sorry!¡± She held his ankles and shrieked. Her make-up had stained her cheeks with black trails.


    ¡°Please, Marcus . . . ¡° Ellyn mumbled as a tear rolled down her cheek. ¡°You don¡¯t have to do this.¡±


    Nothing they said mattered anymore, he knew.


    ¡°You¡¯re wrong, old woman. We¡¯re not doing this because you hurt our Nephilim girl or because you almost got our Anglish boy killed.¡± Marcus gestured at Gorth, and the big man walked toward Orena, drawing a long gold knife from his belt. ¡°We¡¯re just tying loose ends. Did you really think Lady Magenta would allow you to live after all the things you know about her?¡±


    ¡°No . . . NO!¡± Orena squealed and dragged herself away from Marcus, but Gorth grabbed her by the hair and yanked her head upward, exposing her short neck.


    In a quick sweep, he buried the knife in her flesh and sliced it like butter.


    A rainfall of blood covered Orena¡¯s chest and dress as she dropped to the floor like a flesh doll. She tried to mumble something, but instead of words, a spurt of blood erupted from her mouth and nose.


    Trembling, Ellyn locked her dilated eyes on Orena¡¯s convulsing body, lying on a growing pond of darkened red.


    The old woman twitched and began to turn purple.


    Her right hand trembled for the last time when life abandoned her body.


    Marcus crouched next to Ellyn with his silver knife in his hand. ¡°Now, listen to me.¡± He placed the edge on her cheekbone, and a thin trail of blood trailed down her cheek. ¡°You have a great mother and a nice boyfriend, don¡¯t you?¡±


    The pain seemed to bring her back to her senses. Her eyes met his, and she bobbed her head.


    ¡°We don¡¯t want them to suffer the same fate as her, right?¡± He pointed the knife at Orena¡¯s corpse. ¡°You will forget about this and work diligently for your boss. You will do as she says, and everything will be okay.¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t hurt them . . . ¡° Ellyn whispered as her irritated eyes filled with tears. ¡°They know nothing about this. They¡¯d hate me.¡±


    ¡°They will know nothing. You have my word. And it better stay that way.¡± Marcus stood up and gestured at Gorth to get rid of the corpse. ¡°Now, let¡¯s go back home . . . Director Ellyn.¡±


    *¡ã*¡ã*

 9: Black Diamonds

    Marcus


    The wind blew wild that cold night, dragging depressing clouds past the crescent moon. Marcus was standing on the mansion porch, a cigarette between his lips and both hands in his pockets. He looked different, wearing an elegant black tuxedo. The shadow drawing across his face turned his obsidian eyes into holes of darkness.


    Strangely, the events of that night lingered in his mind. Why? Regret was still unknown, but something else burdened his soul. His path seemed feeble. Like a slippery road, his steps felt uncertain.


    However, there was no time for hesitation. He had to do it for her.


    For her.


    Magenta slammed the front door and bolted outside. She was wearing a long, dark carmine dress that fell on her ankles, tickling the diamonds on her black heels. She paced around her fountain, inspecting every detail as she brushed the marble with her pale fingers. The water shined with a cobalt glow while six beams of water danced and drew fancy figures in different tones of red.


    The Lady walked up to Marcus. ¡°Why that face?¡± she asked, frowning.


    ¡°It¡¯s nothing, my lady.¡±


    ¡°He¡¯s coming soon. You better change that face of yours now!¡± Magenta glared at him. She looked more agitated than usual.


    ¡°Yes, my lady.¡± Marcus forced a smile. Magenta rolled her emerald eyes and dashed back inside.


    Marcus let out a deep sigh. His thoughts were wild animals trapped in his brain, and he was trying to keep them caged. He lit his twentieth cigarette in one hour and fixed his eyes on the entrance.


    The wind calmed, and silence materialized for a quick second.


    A sudden clank resounded as the front gates of the mansion opened. A vermilion limousine drove through, blinding Marcus with its blue headlights until it stopped at the entrance. Two men in black suits stepped out.


    The tallest one opened the back door, and a man in a flamboyant red suit descended from the car. He adjusted his lapel as a smug smirk drew across his flushed, plump face. He tightened his bowtie and strutted toward the entrance.


    He looked like a giant tomato in his gaudy attire. Gold teeth dazzled dimly on his twisted smile while multiple rings sparkled on his fat fingers. Most of his hair was gone, except for a few black strands on the back of his head.


    Magenta was waiting for him at the door, accompanied by Maria and Karen, another one of her maids. He walked up to them, swaying his body in a feminine rhythm. He glanced at the maids and then locked his eyes on The Lady.


    ¡°Dear Magenta, long time no see!¡± he said, grabbing her hands between his and greeting her by kissing her cheek.


    ¡°Mr. Doman, it¡¯s a pleasure to see you again.¡± Magenta returned a beautiful smile.


    ¡°I¡¯ve heard great things, and I had to come and see them by myself.¡± He didn¡¯t let go of Magenta¡¯s hands.


    ¡°You¡¯ll be pleased. It¡¯s probably better than you think.¡±


    ¡°Now, those are good news!¡± He laughed in a high-pitched grunt. ¡°Please, dear Magenta, call me Persen.¡±


    ¡°Alright, Persen. Let me introduce you to my girls.¡± She reached out for Maria. ¡°This is Maria. I think you¡¯ve met her before.¡±


    Persen approached Maria, biting his lower lip. He seized her hands and kissed her cheek with an open mouth that left a trail of saliva on her. ¡°How are you, young Maria? It¡¯s been a while!¡±


    ¡°It has, Mr. Doman,¡± Maria said, smiling as her body squirmed nervously.


    Magenta introduced the other girl and then invited him to come inside. Persen allowed the ladies to go first. But when Maria walked past him, he reached out for her rear. The maid gasped and glanced at him in disbelief, her lavender eyes widening.


    ¡°Keep going, young Maria.¡± Persen winked at her with a creepy smile.


    Maria turned pale and nodded slowly before resuming her walk.


    Marcus paid no attention to the situation because his gaze was locked on Persen¡¯s bodyguards: Viper and Skado. Viper was tall and bulky, with a long forehead and long grayish-black hair like wool. His penetrating eyes were pale gray, and his smile inexistent.


    Skado was younger and shorter. Slender body with a bony face and sunken black eyes. He had the coldest stare Marcus had ever seen and a weird tick that made his upper lip quiver all the time.


    They smell like death, Marcus thought as he kept eye contact with them for long seconds.


    Everyone arrived at the great hall. Magenta and Persen sat on two large sofas covered in red velvet, arranged on opposite sides of a crystal table adorned with rubies. Maria and Karen stood behind Magenta while Marcus stood closer to the door. Viper and Skado stood behind Persen.


    ¡°Dear Magenta, I can¡¯t wait to meet her!¡± Persen said, rubbing his hands together.


    ¡°You will tonight.¡± Magenta winked at him.


    ¡°Where is she right now?¡±


    ¡°She will be ready soon, Persen.¡± Magenta glared at Maria. The maid apologized and rushed out of the room.


    Her eyes returned to Persen. ¡°Shall we drink something while we wait?¡± Magenta offered a cup of martini that Persen took with delight.


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    *¡ã*¡ã*


    Remnya


    Remnya was looking at the moon through her window when she heard someone knocking on the door. She clenched her fists and hissed, knowing what they wanted from her. Leaving the door locked and ignoring Maria seemed like a good idea, but angering Magenta was the last thing she wanted to do.


    I have no choice.


    Remnya stepped out of her room and slammed the door behind her. She crossed her arms and scowled. ¡°Why do I have to do this?¡± She sighed.


    ¡°We just, uh . . . ¡° Maria looked away, hesitating to speak. ¡°We have a special guest tonight, and as Magenta¡¯s daughter, it¡¯s expected of you to be there.¡± She giggled nervously.


    ¡°Ok, but,¡± Remnya grimaced as she pointed at her new dress, ¡°why do I have to wear this stupid outfit?¡± she yelled. Her dress differed from anything she had worn before. It was tight on her waist and very short, plus it didn¡¯t cover her chest as much as she wished.


    ¡°It¡¯s just different, but looks great on you, young lady!¡± Maria assured her with a smile.


    She scoffed, shaking her head. ¡°Do I have to go now?¡±


    ¡°Yes, please.¡±


    Remnya rolled her eyes and gave Maria a sidelong glance. The maid was clasping her hands and avoiding eye contact with her. Remnya knew she had to go, or else Magenta would be furious. She took a deep breath and followed Maria.


    An odd feeling grew in her stomach as she walked toward her meeting.


    They arrived at the great hall and stood by the doorway. Remnya peeked out at the weird man laughing with Magenta. As soon as Persen spotted her, a wide smile drew across his round face. She felt a sudden urge to flee when his gray gaze hit her like a punch, but Magenta was motioning for her to come.


    Remnya held her breath and walked forward while Persen¡¯s eyes pierced her like knives.


    ¡°Dear Persen, this is Remnya,¡± Magenta said, holding Remnya¡¯s hand.


    ¡°Remnya, uh?¡± Persen scanned her from head to toe in silence. He did it three times over, nodding after every inspection. ¡°You are way more beautiful than I thought. It¡¯s a pleasure to meet you.¡± He beamed at her and offered his hand.


    Remnya had a knot in her throat. His sole presence made her skin crawl, but she had to be polite; Magenta was watching. ¡°It¡¯s nice to meet you too, mister,¡± she replied, bowing her head and ignoring his hand. The last thing she wanted was to touch him.


    ¡°My name is Persen. I¡¯m so glad we finally got to meet, young Remnya. Magenta told me a lot about you, but your beauty can not be described with words.¡± He leaned forward to inspect her dress.


    ¡°Thank you,¡± Remnya stuttered as she gave him a suspicious look.


    ¡°Come, sit, Remnya.¡± Magenta patted the seat next to her.


    Remnya tugged her dress and sat with her legs pressed together. She hated that stupid dress.


    Persen had never stopped staring at her. She tried to avoid eye contact, but his eyes always searched for hers.


    ¡°How old are you, Remnya?¡± he asked, crossing his fingers.


    ¡°Thirteen, mister.¡±


    ¡°Really? I could¡¯ve sworn you were older!¡± He guffawed.


    Magenta and her maids forced a smile, but Marcus rolled his eyes. Persen kept asking questions, and Remnya always replied with short answers and a serious face. It was a sketchy interrogatory.


    When Persen was done with his questions, he turned and raised his eyebrows at his bodyguards. They understood what he meant, and so did Magenta.


    ¡°Well, Persen. If you excuse me, I need to attend an urgent business right now. I promise you it won¡¯t take long.¡± Magenta turned to Remnya with a grin. ¡°My dear, I need you to keep Mr. Persen company while I¡¯m gone.¡±


    Her words sent cold shivers down her spine. Remnya wanted to shout at her not to leave her, but couldn¡¯t. She¡¯ll think I¡¯m afraid . . . I¡¯m not afraid! But this is weird! Resigned, Remnya clenched her fists and nodded.


    Magenta stood up and beckoned her maids and Marcus to leave. Remnya was left alone with Persen, and the immense hall seemed to shrink around her.


    Persen leaned forward with his orbs locked on her body. He didn¡¯t even try to pretend anymore. ¡°That dress looks superb on you, young Remnya.¡± He caressed his fat cheeks and nodded.


    ¡°Thank you, I guess.¡± She tugged her dress down to cover her legs.


    ¡°Can you stand up, please?¡± Persen rubbed his hands together.


    Remnya widened her eyes, thrown off by such a request. What the heck? Why is he asking me this? She wanted to yell ¡®NO!¡¯, but the image of Magenta popped into her head. Remnya scowled and let out a silent sigh. She held her dress tightly over her legs and stood up.


    ¡°You¡¯re really tall, aren¡¯t you?¡± Persen nodded to himself, approving of the sight. He scanned her body, so focused he seemed to see through her clothes.


    Remnya dropped to her seat again. A fire was building up in her, threatening to burn that obnoxious man.


    Persen caressed his chin. ¡°Tell me more about you. Do you have a boyfriend?¡±


    ¡°A boyfriend?¡± Remnya gaped at him. That¡¯s none of your business, weird old man! ¡°I don¡¯t!¡± She raised her voice as her heart kicked in her chest.


    A yellow grin covered his face as he nodded over and over. ¡°Is there any boy you like?¡±


    ¡°No, there¡¯s no one.¡± Her face turned red. His stupid question only fueled the fire burning in her chest.


    ¡°How can such a cute girl like you not have a boyfriend? I¡¯m sure the boys go crazy for you!¡± He let out a burst of high-pitched laughter.


    ¡°I don¡¯t care about that.¡± Remnya glared at him; her eyes had turned into blazes.


    ¡°Yet.¡± His thin lips twitched. Persen dragged his body forward, sitting on the edge of the sofa. He stretched his short neck to look at her chest. ¡°You are growing. I¡¯m sure you¡¯ve been feeling different lately. Am I right?¡±


    ¡°Different?¡±


    ¡°Yes! Your body is changing. You don¡¯t look like a little girl anymore. You¡¯re starting to look like a woman.¡± Persen licked his upper lip and smirked. ¡°I¡¯m sure you¡¯ve noticed how your chest is growing bigger and bigger!¡± His voice cracked with excitation.


    The red on Remnya¡¯s cheeks turned as crimson as her wide-open eyes. She instinctively covered her chest as a mix of embarrassment and anger revolted her stomach. Stupid old man! Why is he telling me this?


    She buried her fingers in the sofa. The fire in her was about to erupt through her mouth and fists. Before it was too late, Remnya decided she wouldn¡¯t speak one more word to the creepy man, or else her fist would end up in his disgusting mouth.


    ¡°I see you¡¯re getting embarrassed talking about this, but don¡¯t worry, it¡¯s something natural for all girls your age.¡± Persen leaned back in his seat. The irritating smile had never left his shiny face.


    She fixed her eyes on the doorway, wishing Magenta would return before she kicked Persen¡¯s prominent belly.


    ¡°You¡¯re a bit shy, but I really enjoyed our time together,¡± Persen said as he stood up.


    Remnya froze in her seat. That man loomed over her like a giant. He leaned closer, and Remnya flinched, rushing to take a defensive stance. Was he trying to hurt her now? Persen was thousands of times scarier than Orena. She could hear her heart kicking like crazy against her chest while cold sweat rolled down her back.


    Persen reached out for his back pocket and drew three bundles of money. He placed them on the table in front of Remnya.


    ¡°You can buy something nice with this. Thank you very much for the talk, young Remnya.¡± Persen beamed at her, his gold teeth reflected in her eyes. ¡°Hopefully, we can meet again soon.¡± He started toward the door.


    Remnya watched him leave the hall. She was panting and shaking, but when that monster disappeared, her heart slowed down. Remnya sat still with a vacant stare and a numb feeling in her mind. She overheard Persen and Magenta¡¯s voices echoing outside for a while until they faded into the night.


    Long minutes passed. Remnya caught her breath and could move her body again. She wiped the sweat from her forehead and grabbed the money on the table. She stared at it: 50,000 Dentz; she had never seen so much money together in her life. Remnya tightened her fingers on the bundle, her hand trembling.


    Remnya stood up, narrowing her eyes. She let out a roar of anger and slammed the money on the floor.


    ¡°I don¡¯t want your stupid money, creepy old man!¡±


    *¡ã*¡ã*

 10: Troubled Soul

    Zeo


    The news had hit Zeo like a truck, shattering everything he believed until that moment. Late at night, the caregivers informed Zeo that the man called Marcus had adopted him. Doubts and questions lingered in his head as he packed his belongings in an old backpack. He squeezed his action figures, books, and clothes and then scanned his room for the fifth time to ensure he didn''t forget anything.


    That was the last morning he would see those crumbling walls and smell the musty scent of the orphanage. Mixed feelings tangled around him; seeing Remnya again filled his heart with joy, but leaving the little Amy behind stung the depths of his soul. Who would protect her?


    Amy deserves a family much more than I do. Perhaps if I tell Marcus about her horns . . . He might . . .


    Zeo walked the empty corridors for the last time and arrived at Amy''s room. He stared at the door for long seconds. She was mad at him for leaving. The night before, she had punched him and cried, refusing to say goodbye. Zeo swallowed and knocked on the door several times, hoping to hug her little friend one last time.


    But she never answered.


    Zeo left a package with her name by the door and leaned on the wall to sob in silence.


    I''m sorry, Amy. Don''t think I''ve abandoned you. I''ll come back for you as soon as I make enough money. I promise you.


    The doorknob turned, making Zeo''s heart skip a beat. However, his hope was brief. Instead of Amy, Gina peeked at him from behind the door with a sleepy face. Quickly, Zeo turned away to hide his tears.


    "Amy is asleep," Gina whispered, closing the door behind her. "Should I wake her?"


    "No, it''s okay." Zeo sniffled and wiped his eyes before putting his glasses back on. "I don''t want to make her cry again."


    Gina leaned her hand on his shoulder and stared into his wet eyes. "I''ll take care of her for you. I promise."


    "Really?" Zeo gaped at her.


    She nodded and smiled. "It''s the least I can do. I won''t let anyone hurt her."


    "Thank you . . . " Zeo muttered, holding back the tears blurring his vision.


    "You know," she started, leaning closer. "I know I''ve been a bitch to you all this time, but I''ll miss you."


    Zeo tightened his lips as his cheeks turned red. "I . . . Uh, " he stammered. "I''m sure we''ll meet again soon." He forced a smile.


    "Maybe, who knows?" Gina pursed her lips and poked his chest. "But the next time we meet, you''ll be a different person."


    "Why do you say that?"


    "Feminine intuition?" She shrugged and brushed a strand of hair aside. "I just know it''ll happen."


    Deep in his heart, Zeo knew she was right. "I don''t know if I will change, but if I do, I will try to be better."


    Gina giggled. "You will, and then, when we meet again . . . " She smirked. "Nevermind."


    "What?"


    Without a word, Gina pulled Zeo closer and wrapped her arms around his body tightly. Zeo froze, but his cheeks turned red like blood, feeling the warmth of her body against his and the sweet scent of her melon perfume.


    "Goodbye, Zeo." Gina''s voice cracked as she released him and turned toward her room, hiding her face. She grabbed the package for Amy from the floor and bolted inside, slamming the door shut.


    Silence.


    "Goodbye, Gina . . . " Zeo murmured, confusion invading his mind. He would never understand girls, but knowing that he had made another friend filled his soul with the strength to move forward and face his new life.


    His next stop was Orena''s office. Despite the years of abuse, that woman had given him the chance to have a roof over his head. However, the old lady wasn''t there. Her room was dark and still, with its windows closed, the trash can empty, and her desk covered by dust. She hadn''t come to work for one week, so a caregiver called Jenna had named herself director during her absence.


    Ellyn was the last person he wanted to say goodbye to, but she had been missing for one week, too. Zeo hated not being able to thank her for the multiple times she had healed his wounds.


    No one else mattered. The rest of the kids despised him.


    It was early and freezing that morning. Zeo sat by the entrance door with his luggage by his feet and wrapped himself with an old pullover Remnya had left him. He looked out the window at the cloudy sky. Only the wind whistling through the door''s cracks accompanied him. While he waited, his mind kept taking him back to the events of the past weeks.


    Footsteps coming from the front yard brought Zeo back to reality. He rushed to peek out the door and glimpsed a young man standing outside.


    "Excuse me, has Ellyn come to work today?" he asked.


    "She hasn''t, sir," Zeo said, scanning him from head to toe.


    "Jeez, where could she be?"


    "I''ve not seen her in a while, sir."


    "That''s what worries me. She hadn''t contacted me in one week now."


    Zeo widened his eyes. "Are you a family of hers?"


    "Well, I''m her boyfriend. My name is Adrian."


    "Oh! Nice to meet you, sir." Zeo bowed to the young man. "I''m Zeo."


    "Zeo? Ellyn talked a lot about you!" Adrian smiled, displaying perfect teeth. He looked younger than Ellyn, with coffee hair and eyes that emanated a warm aura.


    "Really? She did?"


    "Yes! I had been meaning to meet you for a while." He offered his hand to Zeo, who shook it and returned a polite smile. "Anyhow, Zeo. Are you telling me you haven''t seen her in a while?"


    Zeo shook his head. "I thought it was strange, too."


    Adrian took a deep breath as he rubbed his chin. "I don''t like this at all." He placed his hand on Zeo''s shoulder and stared into his eyes. "Would you mind coming with me? I need to ask you something."


    Zeo nodded and accompanied him toward an old oak tree Rem used to climb.


    "So, there''s this man who has been worrying me. Do you know someone called Marcus?"


    "Marcus?" Zeo gaped at him. "Yes, Mr. Marcus. I was waiting for him."


    "No way!" Adrian glanced at the gates. "Please, don''t tell anyone, but I think this man Marcus is dangerous."


    "Dangerous?" A cold shiver ran down Zeo''s back.


    Adrian bobbed his head. "Ellyn will hate me for this, but I gotta say it. The night before she went missing, I accidentally read a message on her phone. The sender read as ''Marcus The Jerk'', his message was concise: ''No more mistakes''."


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    "No more mistakes?" Zeo stayed pensive for a moment. He recalled the time he met Marcus and how nervous Ellyn and Orena looked. "Anything else?"


    "Yes. The last time I saw Ellyn, she was strangely nervous, pacing around the house, unable to sleep." Adrian sighed. "I insisted on accompanying her that day, but she got really upset. She threatened me with breaking up if I kept sticking my nose in her job." He clenched his fist and punched the ground. "I should''ve followed her, anyway! I regret it so much . . . "


    Zeo shuddered as crazy ideas fought in his head. "Mr. Adrian, the last time I saw Ellyn, I recall seeing Mr. Marcus'' car parked outside. I headed downstairs to greet him, but when I arrived there, they were gone. I asked Jenna about them, and she said they had left with Marcus."


    Adrian''s eyes dilated. "That bastard! He did something to her!"


    "That can''t be . . . Why would he do something to her? Ellyn has always been so nice." Zeo clenched his fists and shook his head.


    "Zeo, you said you were waiting for him. Am I right?"


    "Yes, he is supposed to come for me today and take me to work in his house. My friend Remnya lives there now."


    Adrian placed both hands on Zeo''s shoulders and locked his eyes on his. "I need to ask you a great favor, Zeo. I need you to hide before he comes. I want to confront Marcus right here, right now."


    "But, Mr. Adrian, this has to be a mistake."


    "We will find out soon. If I am mistaken, I''ll apologize. I promise I won''t cause you any trouble. But please, Zeo, I have a feeling something terrible is going on here."


    Zeo gazed at Adrian. His lips quivered, and sweat covered his forehead. That was the sight of a desperate man.


    "Alright," Zeo mumbled, taking a deep breath. "I''ll do as you ask so you can talk to him."


    "Thank you so much, Zeo." Adrian smiled.


    Zeo rushed to hide his backpack under a bush and then sneaked behind a pile of card boxes someone had left near the door. Zeo didn''t want to believe Adrian''s words and hoped he was wrong. Yet, he had had a weird feeling all this time. What if Mr. Adrian is right? Remnya could be in danger!


    *¡ã*¡ã*


    The loud screech of metal gates announced Marcus'' arrival. He sped up carelessly through the front yard and hit the brakes over the sidewalk, leaving a black trail on the concrete. Adrian waited at the entrance, fists clenched and eyes locked on him.


    Marcus strode past Adrian, ignoring his presence. "Excuse me, are you Marcus?" Adrian asked, loud enough to be heard.


    Marcus gave him a brief, careless glance and kept going.


    Adrian walked up to Marcus and grabbed his shoulder. "We need to talk, sir." When his hand touched Marcus''s impeccable suit, he turned, darting a spiteful glare, and pushed the young man away by slamming his chest with an open hand. Adrian stumbled but regained his balance.


    "Keep your hands off me," Marcus said in a threatening tone.


    "Listen!" Adrian raised his voice. "I got several questions for you!"


    Marcus scanned his face. "Who the hell are you?"


    "Adrian, Ellyn''s boyfriend, and I know you did something to her!"


    A long silence.


    "What are you talking about?" Marcus asked, giving him a dirty look.


    "You''re the last person who saw her. She hasn''t contacted me nor come to work for over one week. Something bad happened to her!" Adrian shouted, his voice rumbling throughout the quiet hall.


    Marcus narrowed his eyes and stayed pensive for a moment.


    "Tell me where Ellyn is now!" Adrian took one step forward, puffing his chest to make his slender body look bigger. He was one head shorter than Marcus, and his bony arms were half the size of his.


    Marcus opened his mouth to say something but clenched his teeth instead. "Listen! I know nothing about your bitch, nor do I care. I got more important things to do now." His words were sharp swords full of poison.


    Adrian''s soft face turned into a tempest. Zeo gasped at the sight, his heart racing in his chest, fearing the worst. Part of him wanted to stop hiding to avoid the upcoming confrontation, but his legs didn''t dare to move.


    Marcus turned his back to Adrian and started toward the hall. "You fucking bastard!" Adrian roared, darting toward Marcus.


    Adrian threw a punch at him.


    Marcus ducked it with ease, but his knuckles scratched the back of his head. Marcus whirled and in a swift movement, slammed a heavy blow on his jaw.


    Adrian dropped to the ground as a stream of blood flowed from the side of his mouth.


    "I''ll repeat it one last time!" Marcus yelled, his deep voice echoing in every corner as he stepped outside. "I know nothing about your fucking bitch!"


    "Liar!" Adrian shouted, pulling himself to his feet. His legs trembled. "You''re the last person she talked to!" Adrian charged at him again, throwing uncoordinated punches that missed his target. Clearly, Ellyn''s boyfriend was not a fighter, but his fury seemed to push him forward.


    Marcus seized one of his punches and retaliated with an uppercut that sent Adrian flying backward. His back hit the ground first, and then his head whipped the concrete as he let a groan of pain.


    Marcus took one step forward but stopped as if hesitating to hit him again. There wasn''t anger in his sharp eyes. He looked confused.


    Adrian stood up, sprawled on the ground, and leaned against a tree. He had only received two punches, but his jaw was a mess of blood, almost falling apart. Zeo couldn''t believe he was still conscious; his love for Ellyn must''ve been the force driving him forward.


    He charged again, and again he met the ground. He tried one, two, three times; each fall was worse than the last one. Marcus was mopping the floor with him. Adrian spurted a mouthful of thick blood and teeth. Marcus'' hands were like concrete blocks smashing his skull.


    "I will never forgive you . . . " Adrian mumbled, staggering aimlessly. "I''ll never forgive you for hurting Ellyn!" He used the tree to impulse himself forward, trying to reach Marcus'' face.


    Marcus seized his arms, gave him a pitiful look, and shook his head.


    Kids had woken up and watched the scene from the higher floors while the caregivers peeked out at them from behind a door with a terrified expression.


    Marcus lifted his gaze at the kids and let out a deep sigh. He twisted Adrian''s arms behind his back and dragged him away from their sight. Adrian tried to resist, but his body didn''t respond anymore. Zeo waited until they were out of sight and then hopped out of his hiding spot to follow them.


    Zeo found them in the backyard. He sneaked behind a mountain of trash and debris and peeked at Adrian, lying still over a bed of dried leaves. Marcus still loomed over him.


    "Stupid!" Marcus roared with frustration. "I''m honest when I say I know nothing about Ellyn!"


    "No more mistakes . . . " Adrian mumbled, trying to get back on his feet, but fell back to the ground. "That''s what you said to her."


    A sharp silence cut through them.


    "I know it was you!" Adrian lifted his swollen eyes at him. "Where is she? Please, tell me!"


    "I don''t know."


    "Is she hurt? Is she even alive?" Adrian trembled as he tried to sit up.


    Marcus said nothing and paced around the backyard with his eyes lost in thoughts. He circled Adrian, scratching his head and clenching his teeth. Finally, he punched a wall and let out a deep sigh of resignation.


    He came to a halt in front of a pile of rocks. He lifted the heaviest one and carried it toward Adrian.


    "What are you do¡ª"


    Marcus dropped the rock on Adrian''s stomach. The young man let out a groan of pain as his chest cracked under the weight. The rock was almost the size of his body.


    "You . . . " Adrian mumbled, cradling on the rock as he struggled to breathe. "Why . . . ?"


    "Sorry," Marcus whispered, turning his back to Adrian and walking away.


    *¡ã*¡ã*


    Hidden behind a mountain of trash and debris, Zeo witnessed how Marcus abandoned a dying Adrian on the ground and returned to the building.


    Making sure he was gone, Zeo rushed to Adrian''s side. The young man lay still, breathing heavily, close to falling unconscious. Desperately, Zeo tried to move the massive rock crushing his body without success.


    "Please, hold on!" Zeo said, tears welling up in his eyes.


    Adrian nodded slowly, his swollen eyes shut and his face stained with darkened blood. Zeo needed help, but Marcus was still in the building. He had to remove the rock on his own before Adrian ran out of oxygen. Zeo punched his head in frustration. Doctors had always labeled him a genius, but now he felt stupid and useless.


    He scanned his surroundings for a solution until a flash illuminated his brain. He remembered Orena''s old car, which was still parked near the front yard, and no one had moved it in days.


    It was a crazy idea, but it could work.


    Zeo returned to the building through the backdoor. A ruckus invaded the orphanage as Marcus kicked doors and mopped the floor with a male caregiver who politely asked him to leave. Unnoticed, Zeo rushed to Orena''s office. After turning the place upside down, he found the car keys in her drawers.


    He dashed to the parking lot, where the old car hid under a mattress of dried leaves. Zeo had never driven in his life, but he had read a lot about it and knew what to do. He tried to start it several times.


    The car started on the fifth try but shut off as soon as Zeo touched the throttle. He insisted until he figured it out. Motivated by sheer will, Zeo forgot his fears and drove slowly around the building.


    He parked close to Adrian, who had just fallen unconscious. Zeo checked his vital signs and exhaled in relief when he heard his heartbeats. He grabbed a chain that hung from a nearby tree and attached it to the car''s hitch. Zeo wrapped the other end around the rock on Adrian''s body and carefully placed a thick wooden board on his side so it wouldn''t crush his bones.


    He got in the car and hit the gas pedal.


    The rock moved and stumbled to the side without causing more damage. Zeo returned to Adrian and noticed he breathed better. However, his wounds were still serious; he needed medical attention immediately. His life was in his hands now. I''m not a coward, I''m not a coward, he repeated in his head as he dragged Adrian''s body to the car. Zeo felt how his ribs dangled in his torso; the damage was worse than it looked. Marcus had left him to die.


    Sweat rolled down his forehead, and his back hurt. Adrian wasn''t heavy, but Zeo''s body was weak. Panting and running out of breath, he got Adrian in the backseat of the old car and then hopped into the driver''s seat. As Zeo adjusted the mirror, he saw his eyes glistening with tears and his face and hair covered in dirt, but he saw the boy he wanted to be, the one Remnya saw too: a brave one.


    His hands trembled on the steering wheel, and his heart pumped violently, but he accelerated without looking behind.


    As they crossed the orphanage gates, the time stopped, and his vision focused on the long road ahead of him.


    Zeo traveled several kilometers, hitting the brakes, the car shutting off, and avoiding accidents. Nevertheless, he drove away.


    *¡ã*¡ã*

 11: Fire Heart

    Zeo


    The public hospital of Fallen Star was a gloomy place. It reminded Zeo of the infirmary, but hundreds of times bigger. They treated Adrian while Zeo sat in the crowded waiting room. He witnessed people bleeding, burnt, with missing limbs, cries, wails, screams, and all kinds of odors that revolted his stomach. Zeo closed his eyes, sweating and shaking, but he held his own.


    One hour later, Zeo walked into Adrian''s room. The young man had woken up and stared at him with a smile plastered across his broken face.


    "Zeo, I have no words to thank you," Adrian whispered, his voice thin and fragile.


    "No, mister. I did what I had to do. You were right about Marcus. I should be the one thanking you," Zeo said, staring downward.


    "Still, thank you."


    Zeo smiled and nodded.


    "Check the pocket in my pants, Zeo." Adrian pointed at a chair nearby and tried to lift his head.


    He reached out for the pants hanging on the chair and found a golden card in them. "What is this?" Zeo inspected it. The card said ''Lovecraft Mansion'' and had three phone numbers with some codes. "This belongs to Marcus."


    Adrian nodded. "I took it when he was hitting me." He laughed and then grimaced at the pain in his jaw. "Lovecraft Mansion . . . That is in Crysalton."


    "Yeah, so that''s where Rem is!" Zeo''s eyes shone. "And this is an ID. We can access his personal information with this!"


    "Exactly, we can find out what is going on behind all this mess, and perhaps find Ellyn . . . "


    "We need to act fast," Zeo said, standing up. "I''ll be back soon, mister."


    He hastened to the lower floor, where they provided free computers. Zeo used the ID on the infrared scanner and accessed Marcus'' profile. He used the card attached to it to input the passwords. Zeo had learned a lot about computers and managed to gather some information, except for the one encrypted with different passwords. He rushed to print everything. Time was running out; once Marcus realized he had lost his ID, he would lock the access to it.


    Zeo sat in a corner and read everything.


    ''Marcus Froilan, 37 years old. Magenta Gandini''s personal bodyguard. Divorced. One daughter.'' Nothing suspicious about him. Zeo searched for Magenta online and found some information. ''Magenta Gandini, 39 years old, Co-owner of the Red Heaven Tower and owner of the Lovecraft Mansion. Single. No children.


    He returned to Marcus'' profile to check things about Magenta he hadn''t found online. ''Magenta Gandini, member of the ECC: Eugenics Center of Crysalton.'' Zeo had read about the ECC in the past, but like most people, he thought they were just a myth. Up until that moment.


    Eugenics was a common practice among the richest citizens. People paid millions for modified babies or for enhancing their own abilities and health. Illegal in some states and legal in others, the black market for eugenics was huge across the globe.


    The myths claimed the ECC experimented with humans, Nephilims, and even Anglishes. Some crazy people assured the government supported the ECC because they provided the military with genetically enhanced humans.


    A shiver ran down Zeo''s spine when things began to make sense.


    What if this Magenta woman didn''t adopt Remnya but bought her? What if Ellyn knew something? That wouldn''t be good for them. Zeo knew that a lot of the said crazy people suddenly disappeared from the face of Earth after speaking about the ECC.


    The more he read, the harder his heart pumped with adrenaline. He found another important name in his research: Ronner Kavalar, 26 years old. Hybrid Nephilim. Unfortunately, most of the info about him seemed to have been erased from the Internet, no matter how much he searched.


    It wasn''t much, but the results were enough to freeze his blood. His mind began connecting the dots. Those people had something to do with Ellyn''s disappearance, and to his distress, Remnya was in danger.


    *¡ã*¡ã*


    By sunset, Adrian left the hospital. Despite his broken ribs, the young man could walk and hopped in a taxi that took him far away from Marcus'' reach. However, Zeo stayed, wondering if he had made the right choice. His heart said yes, but his brain refuted that statement.


    Adrian had begged him to abandon the hospital with him, but Zeo chose the bravest path, going to the mansion. Being close to Rem would give him the chance to protect her and gather information about Magenta and Marcus. He would need all his wits to solve that crazy puzzle and survive, but Remnya was enough motivation for him.


    He drew a cracked cellphone from his pocket: Adrian''s gift. He tightened his grasp on the device as he remembered the young man''s words. ''I''ll do everything I can to help you and your friend.''


    Should I have gone with Adrian?


    No.


    If I stayed with him, Marcus would chase us non-stop. They want me, after all.


    This is for the best. It has to be.


    A neglected garden next to the hospital provided a dose of fresh air for Zeo and his thoughts. He sat on a stone bench and observed the ten-story building towering over him. It was a matter of time until they came for him that cold afternoon.


    Half an hour went by until the automatic doors from the hospital slid open. A giant-looking man stomped outside. Zeo had seen that stranger in the orphanage before. The weight of his gaze kept Zeo glued to his seat as the man walked toward him.


    The tale has been stolen; if detected on Amazon, report the violation.


    "Are you the boy?" the stranger asked in a deep, raspy voice. His imposing figure cast a large shadow over him.


    "Yes, sir." Zeo stood up. Despite the intimidating sight, his heart was calm.


    "My name is Gorth. I come on behalf of Mr. Marcus."


    "I am Zeo." He bowed.


    "Why are you here?"


    "I apologize. I didn''t mean to cause you trouble, but Mr. Adrian needed help." Zeo lifted his eyes to meet his dark orbs.


    The man furrowed his thick eyebrows. "Why didn''t you ask for help, then?"


    "I had no one to ask." An itch of anger crawled up his throat.


    Gorth crouched next to Zeo and stared straight into his eyes. "Do you know where the nurse''s boyfriend is?"


    "I don''t know, sir."


    Gorth exhaled and stroked his tangled beard. "He stole something very valuable from Marcus, you know that."


    Zeo buried his gaze in the ground as he fiddled with his blood-stained shirt.


    "Once my men find him, his fate will be worse than death. Do you understand that?"


    Zeo tightened his lips and clenched his fists. Adrian''s words resonated in his head, hammering his brain.


    "Sir." Zeo glanced at him, his voice trembling. "Are you going to hurt me, too?"


    "What?" Gorth widened his small eyes, confusion spreading across his face. "Listen, boy. I''ve been tasked with protecting you. Ever since the young lady was taken to the mansion, my mission has been to keep you safe."


    "Is that why you got rid of Orena, sir?" Zeo mumbled as his heart kicked against his chest.


    Gorth exhaled through his nostrils, his breath steaming. He remained pensive for long seconds and finally spoke, "It had to be done."


    Zeo''s lips twitched. "What about Ellyn? How about Liam?"


    Gorth never answered; his expression was solid ice.


    "I know they did wrong. They hurt my friends, yes, but . . . " Zeo narrowed his eyes at Gorth. "Death is not the solution! We don''t just put down an angry dog, we teach him with love and good actions, not with more violence. I know it''s stupid, but that''s what I believe."


    The big man blinked and scratched his head. "Sometimes . . . " Gorth let out a deep. "Things are more complicated than we would like, boy."


    Zeo remained silent as his words sunk into his mind.


    "I understand." Zeo stood up, his legs shaking and cold sweat soaking his back. "I''m ready whenever you want to go, sir."


    Gorth bobbed his head and stood up, covering the faltering sun with his massive figure. He lit a cigar between his lips and blew a mouthful of smoke. "Let''s go back to the orphanage for your belongings. We''ll travel all night." Gorth turned his back to Zeo and drew a pair of keys from his pocket. "I promised the young lady Remnya I''d bring you to her safe and sound."


    Zeo''s eyes shone when he heard her name. He swallowed the knot in his throat and straightened his back, lifting his gaze as he took the first step toward his chosen fate.


    *¡ã*¡ã*


    Remnya


    Remnya sat up suddenly on her bed. She was panting, and cold sweat soaked her body. Her dilated pupils searched for the window. It was still a deep night. Her heart drummed inside her chest as silence whistled in her ears, along with the distant song of crickets.


    She had dreamed of his gray eyes again. That terrifying gaze slowly undressed her while she screamed for help. Remnya shuddered at the thought and hopped out of her bed to drink water.


    A voice in her head repeated his name, over and over.


    Persen Doman.


    Remnya didn''t understand why, but she already hated him. Perhaps she was unfair. He had done nothing to her. Maybe he was a good man with a stupid sense of humor? Remnya questioned herself every day. She always tried to see the good in everyone, but she found it hard to see it in him. Persen made her feel small, weak, and vulnerable. Every damn thing she hated.


    Letting out a deep sigh, Remnya sat at her computer. With trembling fingers, she typed his name on the search engine: Persen Doman.


    Remnya held her breath as the results appeared.


    Persen Doman. A powerful businessman. Owner of one of the biggest oil companies in the country. But more importantly, he was running for governor of Crysalton. Remnya found out he was married and had one daughter. Everything about him was too good to be true. He took part in countless charity events, helped foundations, and people seemed to love him. She couldn''t find anything negative about him.


    It must be my imagination. He seems like a good man . . .


    Yes! It''s just my imagination. It has to be! She preferred to think so. She hoped so.


    Remnya glanced at her nightstand, where her doll sat still, looking back at her with its button eyes. She grabbed it and stared at it for a moment. The image of Zeo popped up in her head. How much she missed him. She squeezed the little memory between her arms and pressed her face against it.


    "I have everything . . . " she murmured. "Why do I feel like this?" Two tears threatened her eyes, but Remnya destroyed them before they came to life. She looked in the mirror, trying to recognize herself.


    So, I am a Nephilim, Zeo? She glared at her weak reflection. I''ll show you what I am capable of. You''ll be impressed the next time we meet. Amy, you too!


    Remnya kissed her doll and placed it back on her bed. She smirked and bolted out of her room toward the library.


    The whole mansion slept while Remnya rushed through the cold corridors. A crazy idea was maturing in her head. Remnya unlocked the tall library gates and sneaked inside.


    Clenching her fists, Remnya walked toward the beautiful fireplace. A black and red hearth surrounded by gold accompanied the silent readers when they rested on the velvet sofas. However, Remnya used that place to sleep when she hid from her teachers.


    "I''ll show you what the horned witch is capable of," Remnya mumbled, gritting her teeth as she lit the fireplace.


    Remnya contemplated the orange flames dancing in front of her. She bit her lower lip, her sweaty hand trembling as hesitation arose in her mind.


    "I''m not afraid!" Remnya repeated over and over until she swallowed the lump in her throat. Slowly, she reached out for the fire. She flinched twice as the heat bit her fingertips. Remnya had begun to have second thoughts when the image of Persen popped into her mind. Those gray eyes, trying to undress her again.


    Remnya let out a scream of anger and shoved her hand into the fire.


    Silence.


    One, two, three seconds.


    She felt nothing.


    Ten seconds passed. Remnya was shaking, her gaze locked on the mesmerizing flames caressing her skin. She closed her eyes, feeling a warm breeze around her fingers. Remnya thought she was still dreaming, but when she looked again, the reality made her shiver.


    "Why?" she murmured.


    One minute had passed on the old grandfather clock when she took her hand off the fire and stared at it. Her skin was intact.


    A rainfall of memories hit her back. Remnya was only six when her body set itself on fire for no reason. She had been so terrified she couldn''t sleep for months, thinking she would burn to death in her sleep. Orena called her a pyromaniac, and the kids made fun of her for having burnt all her clothes. That''s when she started to defend herself.


    Remnya hated fire so much. It was the reason everyone called her a horned witch. Back then, no one stood up for her, no one but one, Zeo, who told her there was nothing wrong with her, that she was just "special."


    Now, Remnya saw it. The fire wasn''t her enemy. It had never been, it had never hurt her. People did.


    There was only one way to assure her heart. She grabbed a strand of hair and admired it in her hand. It shined in deep black and smelled of strawberry. Remnya hated most things about her body, but her hair was her proudest feature. If it couldn''t harm the softest part of her body, it meant the rumors were true.


    Remnya glared at the fire, and trembling, put her hair on it.


    Nothing.


    It was immune, too.


    She froze as the flame brushed her hair tenderly. "No way . . . " she mumbled, sitting on the floor. "Zeo was right."


    Remnya recalled Persen''s gray eyes. She grimaced at the thought, and quickly, her vision was engulfed by crimson flames, destroying the horrible gaze haunting her nights.


    "I''ll show you what I am capable of, Zeo!" Remnya smirked as her heart raced in her chest, slowly burning with a newfound flame of hope.


    Her crimson fire.


    *¡ã*¡ã*

 12: Revelations

    Zeo


    The gelid morning air dissipated as the first sunbeams sneaked through rows of red pines, caressing Zeo''s astonished face. Over towering walls, a silver plate engraved with gold letters read ''Lovecraft Mansion.'' They circled that fortress and stopped in front of two massive metal gates, which opened to allow the car inside.


    Zeo admired the place from the window, his mouth wide open. A majestic sight he had only seen in his dreams. It was like a castle set amid an oasis. His mind trailed off for a moment, but quickly, he snapped back to reality, remembering his mission.


    The car stopped under a cherry blossom tree, and Gorth unlocked the doors. Zeo adjusted his backpack, clenched his fists, and hopped out of the vehicle. The moisture in the air sunk into his skin, freezing his cheeks and ears. But as he followed the big man through a cobblestone walkway, the morning sun warmed his body and soul.


    The long path led them to the Servants'' House, on the opposite side of the mansion. A rustic three-story house where the boss placed her disposable staff. Despite its ancient structure, it displayed elegance with its Victorian style and burgundy walls.


    Gorth stood in front of the servants'' house and turned to Zeo, scowling. "Do you remember the rules, boy?" he asked.


    "Yes, sir." Zeo said, holding his arms behind his back. "Only twenty minutes, and I''m not allowed to step in the mansion."


    Gorth bobbed his head and took Zeo''s backpack. "Go straight this way." He pointed at the tiled walkway crossing a large garden.


    Zeo bowed and thanked him before taking the first step toward his destination. His heart hastened at the thought of Remnya waiting for him on the other side. It had been two months, and a knot formed in his stomach mixed with the tingling feeling of moths.


    I wonder how much she has changed.


    The rising sun warmed up the large garden, bathing the blooms of White Fangs growing on each side of the walkway. A perfumed breeze brushed his bangs, the sweet scent of those snow-like petals.


    Zeo almost swallowed his tongue when he glimpsed a familiar figure standing by a tree. His jaw dropped in disbelief. No way that''s Rem! His heart kicked wildly in his chest, and the tingling moths of his stomach turned into a snake slithering through his throat. Zeo slowed his pace to observe her for a bit longer.


    She looks beautiful.


    Two violet hummingbirds flapped their wings around Remnya as she frowned under a Liquid Amber tree. She was wearing a fluffy red jacket and a black ruffle skirt, matched by black tights and shoes. Her shiny hair swung above her tail as she squirmed and blew warm air between her hands. Zeo remembered how much she hated winter.


    "Hi Rem," Zeo mumbled, standing a few meters away from her.


    Her crimson eyes shone as she darted toward him with a wide smile. Without warning, she bumped into him and wrapped her arms around his body, picking him up. Zeo hugged her back, blushing and struggling to breathe. Her strength was unchanged.


    She kept Zeo hanging in the air until a crack on his back forced her to put him down.


    "Zeo! I can''t believe it''s you!" Remnya shouted, tugging his ears and cheeks.


    He giggled, ignoring the pain in his back. "Rem, you look great."


    "Thank you!" Remnya chuckled. "So, is it true? Are you gonna be working here now?"


    Zeo nodded. "Mr. Gorth was showing me the place. Starting tomorrow, I''ll be helping in the kitchen."


    "Will you be a chef now?"


    "I wish." He scratched his head. "I''ll learn from the cooks, and hopefully, be a chef someday. It''d be great to cook for you, Rem."


    She laughed. "You''re still so dumb."


    Zeo smiled as he scanned her from head to toe, unable to believe how cute she had gotten.


    "Have you been well, Rem? How are these people treating you?"


    "Everyone has been very nice to me, especially Mr. Ronner."


    "Mr. Ronner?" He remembered the name.


    "Mr. Ronner is awesome! Once, he took me for a ride in his car and bought me two giant teddy bears and one lion!" She raised her voice, gesturing a lot.


    Zeo bit his lower lip. "How about lady Magenta?"


    "Magenta is weird, but she''s been nice so far."


    "I''m glad." Zeo grinned. Again, nothing suspicious. Too good to be true.


    "How about you? Have you had any trouble with the idiots?" Rem asked, messing up his hair.


    "No . . . No one has bothered me ever since you left," Zeo stuttered as he recalled the events from the past months.


    Rem gave him a suspicious glance. Zeo wasn''t a good liar, but he rushed to change the topic. He talked about Amy and her messages for Remnya, Ellyn, Gina, and even Orena. Zeo told her all the positive things and kept his concerns and worries to himself. He would need to work hard to find out the truth, but he didn''t want to get Remnya involved. His priority was to keep her safe and happy.


    They wandered the garden, catching up with each other until his time was over.


    "You can''t come?" Remnya asked, scowling at him. "I want to show you something!"


    "I can''t! That wouldn''t be okay!" Zeo said as he covered his flushed face.


    "Come on!" She grabbed his arm and yanked him toward the doors of the mansion. He tried to resist, but she was much stronger. "I found out something, but I can''t show you here."


    "What did you find out?"


    "Sorry, young lady. That won''t be possible," Marcus interrupted, stepping outside.


    "What? Why not?" Remnya frowned, putting both hands on her hips.


    "Boys aren''t allowed in the girls'' dorms, and most servants aren''t even allowed in this garden. Orders from Lady Magenta." His voice was firm.


    "That''s not fair!" She scowled and pointed at Zeo. "He''s my friend!"


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    "Sorry, young lady. We made an exception allowing him to be here today, but he needs to come with me now."


    She glared at Marcus and crossed her arms, her face reddening with anger.


    Zeo leaned his hand on her shoulder before she blew up. "It''s okay, Rem. We will have time to hang out later." He beamed at her.


    "He''s right. You two will have time to catch up with each other. But right now, he has work to do."


    "Mr. Marcus is right. I need to go to my room and organize my things. Remember, I just arrived this morning." Zeo laughed nervously.


    Remnya pouted, glared at Marcus, and then at Zeo. "Fine, then!" she shouted, her voice rumbling throughout the garden. Marcus stepped aside as she stormed past him and faded into the mansion.


    Marcus sighed as he walked up to Zeo with a serious expression. "Gorth already explained the rules to you, right?"


    Zeo''s blood froze. He couldn''t forget what Marcus had done. "Yes, sir," Zeo mumbled as he straightened his back.


    "Good. Now, let''s go."


    *¡ã*¡ã*


    Zeo spent his first night at the Servants'' House tossing and turning in bed. His brain refused to shut up, whispering negative thoughts that invaded his mind. He hopped out of bed and paced across the room, scanning the simplest of details. Two beds, one closet, and a tiny window half covered by tree branches. It was discrete but much better than any room in the orphanage.


    Zeo stood by his window and stared at the stars, trying to appreciate the silence of the night. However, he overheard his cell phone vibrating under his pillow. Zeo rushed to pick up and read ''Adrian'' on the caller ID.


    A cold shiver ran down his spine. "What is it, Mr. Adrian? Bad news?" he asked, swallowing the lump in his throat.


    "Zeo! I don''t have much time, so I''ll be brief." Adrian''s voice trembled with excitation and concern. "I researched the ECC and Magenta''s role in it. I found out something." He took a deep breath. "She''s been doing business with one of the most important members of the ECC. Persen Doman. They''ve signed multiple trades, and he''s been the major investor of the Lovecraft Mansion for many years."


    "Persen Doman? Is not he the man running for governor?"


    "Yes! And he has close ties with the ECC, too. If you search for his name online, you will only find good things. But! If you access the hidden dark web, the things you can find are disturbing, to say the least."


    Zeo tightened his fingers around the phone. "It''s really hard to bypass the security of those websites. How did you do it?"


    "I got help. Marcus had access to it, so all I needed to do was dissemble his ID. I gathered the codes to trick the system." He cleared his throat. "Anyway, Persen Doman. He''s a high ranked member of the ECC, a powerful and corrupt man. He has a known criminal record for drug and human trafficking, all of which had been mysteriously erased from his public profile."


    "That''s terrible!" Zeo sat on his bed, trying to process the information. "You also mentioned he invested in the Lovecraft Mansion. Invested in what?" Zeo was suddenly scared of the answer.


    "This is a wild guess, so take it with a grain of salt. But I think he''s been investing in people, people Magenta provided to him for the past ten years."


    Zeo shuddered. "People . . . What would he want people for?"


    "I''m not sure. He has the money to hire people to do whatever he wants." Adrian made a short pause. "Perhaps, he was looking for something else? Remember, he''s a member of the ECC. What if the people he paid for weren''t normal people, but people with special abilities?"


    "Like a Nephilim . . . " Zeo''s heart kicked against his ribs as those intrusive thoughts filled his mind again. He clenched his teeth and narrowed his eyes. "This can''t be."


    Adrian remained silent for a moment and then spoke slowly, "Zeo, now more than ever, be careful and look after Remnya. I''ll do my best to get to the bottom of this. It won''t be easy, but I''ll do my best for you, your friend, and Ellyn."


    "Thank you, Mr. Adrian . . . I''ll do my best too."


    "Please take care, Zeo." He hung up.


    Zeo''s heart pumped adrenaline throughout his whole body. He wiped the sweat off his forehead and sat still, staring vacantly at the window. His head spun with crazy ideas he refused to believe. Zeo knew he had to be smarter than ever now; the fate of Remnya depended on it.


    *¡ã*¡ã*


    Ronner


    Mrs. Amelia loved to sit on the porch of her humble house. An old avocado tree protected her from the sun as she trimmed her carnations. The afternoon was warm, and a breeze caressed the growing leaves above her, drawing jagged shadows across the garden. She sat and fixed her gray eyes on the narrow street, waiting for that dear person who would never come.


    Adjusting his clothes, Ronner stood by her fence and clapped, trying to get her attention. She stood up, aided by her stick, and walked toward him. She glimpsed at his messy blue hair, matched by deep ocean eyes and a wide smile. He was wearing a black shirt with long sleeves, jeans, and white sneakers. She squinted, trying to recognize the stranger.


    "May I help you, young man?" Amelia asked.


    "Mrs. Amelia, right?" He beamed at her. "My name is Ronner Kavalar. May I have a minute, please?"


    "I''d never heard your name before. What brings you here?"


    "I''m new to the neighborhood." His teeth sparkled under the sun. "Anyhow, I heard about your daughter and wanted to say I''m really sorry about it." He tightened his lips and lowered his head.


    The old lady said nothing, but her eyes dropped to the ground in a lost stare.


    "I wanted to help you, my good lady. I brought you something." Ronner lifted two bags full of groceries.


    "You''re very kind, young man, but you don''t have to bother."


    "Please, I insist." He held his hands together as he bowed to her. "Allow me to try to make you smile. That would fill my heart, please."


    Amelia regarded him with tender eyes and opened a short wooden gate. Ronner stepped in and helped her to walk toward the house.


    He placed the bags on an old table with a marble pot in the middle and scanned the room. The place was old but impeccable; it seemed that the old lady had been cleaning every day. Several portraits hung from the walls. He saw old pics of Mrs. Amelia''s younger years, her deceased husband, and her lost daughter.


    Ellyn''s pictures were everywhere, from her younger years until the most recent ones.


    The old lady inspected the bags and bobbed her head, pleased by Ronner''s choices. "It''s been three weeks now, young man," she murmured, caressing a portrait of her daughter.


    "She''s a beautiful girl, isn''t she?" Ronner said, staring at the picture.


    "She is." The lady chuckled. "I always told her that, but she never believed me."


    "Make sure to remind her of it when she comes back."


    Amelia nodded, her eyes lost in the picture of a happy Ellyn. "Did you meet my girl? I don''t think she had a lot of friends, if any . . . "


    "I met her in the orphanage. A sweet, caring girl. Kids loved her."


    She eased herself onto a couch and pointed at a chair for Ronner. "She had a great heart, but that Orena lady . . . " Amelia shook her head. "She always tried to take my girl on the wrong path. I advised her a lot of times. I thought she had listened to me, but now I don''t know anymore."


    He sat. "Why wouldn''t she listen to you?"


    The old lady shrugged her shoulders. "She was naive. Who knows what kind of ideas Orena shoved in her head? When Ellyn began bringing more money for no reason, I had a feeling something was wrong."


    Ronner leaned forward, crossing his fingers. "What do you think it happened to her, Mrs. Amelia?"


    "I think my girl got involved with the wrong people." Amelia smiled with her eyes full of tears. "Only God knows where she is now."


    He stayed pensive for a while. "It''s ok, my lady. We''ll find her soon."


    "Wish I could believe that, young Ronner."


    Ronner knelt next to her and grabbed her hand. "I promise you. I will find her," he said in a firm voice.


    Amelia chuckled as a tear trailed down her cheek. "You''re a good man." She squeezed his hand.


    They talked for over one hour. Ronner kept her distracted and listened to her endless stories, always trying to avoid the hurtful topic. He had a way with words and made the old lady laugh a lot.


    Something about her reminded Ronner of someone from his past. Someone dear to him.


    He finally said goodbye and promised to visit her soon. Ronner left the sad old lady with a smile and newfound hope.


    The streets gleamed with an orange glow as he walked back to his car, the sun setting in front of him. He hopped in and sat still with his hands clenched on the steering wheel.


    His mind was blank.


    As dusk fell on him, he started the car and drove away. Ronner left the town but didn''t return to Crysalton. He took a different road toward a small village amid a green valley.


    A wooden house rose on the slope of a hill, where Ronner parked his car.


    "Mr. Ronner, welcome," a broad man said, bowing to him. A machine gun gleamed by his side.


    Ronner said nothing and gestured at him to move out of his way. The man rushed to obey, allowing Ronner to unlock the door.


    He walked up the stairs, the wood under his feet screeching. His destination was at the end of the corridor.


    "I bought everything you told me," Ronner said, walking into a small room. "Your mom was happy."


    "Thank you."


    Ronner walked up to a girl who sat on a bed and grabbed her chin, lifting her face to look into her gray eyes. "Magenta thinks you are dead." He chuckled. "How naive, right?" Ronner ruffled her long hair and sniffed her neck. "How could I eliminate such a valuable pet?"


    She bobbed her head, giving him a vacant stare. Tears had dried on her cheeks, and her whole body trembled.


    "Now . . . Ellyn." He smirked, his pupils displaying the depths of hell. "My men have worked really hard these past weeks. I believe it''s about time you give them a well-deserved reward."


    *¡ã*¡ã*

 13: Prelude Of Pain

    Zeo


    Gorth came for Zeo early in the morning and took him to the kitchen for his first day of work. His boss was an old lady called Hena, who explained everything he had to do there. It was simple: peeling potatoes, lots of potatoes. He spent all morning doing so with her. A monotonous and slow task, but much better than the slavery he had to endure back in the orphanage.


    The delicious smell of food and the skillful display of the cooks made his time more enjoyable. By the afternoon and after lunch, Zeo was allowed to leave the servants'' house. Eagerly, he ignored his fatigue and headed to meet his old friend, who had promised to wait for him in the large garden.


    In the distance, Zeo recognized the unmistakable black hair and horns he knew so well.


    Remnya was standing under a cherry blossom tree. Two violet hummingbirds flapped their wings around her as she smelled the scent of a White Fangs flower in her hand.


    Zeo walked toward his friend, and a smile spread across his face when she noticed him. They exchanged looks, greeting each other in silence, and sat on a wooden bench.


    A perfumed breeze whistled between them, throwing Zeo''s bangs over his glasses. He peeked at Remnya from the corner of his eyes, still unable to believe that cute girl was the same tomboy from the orphanage. The moths in his stomach went wild, making him squirm in his seat.


    "Zeo . . . " Remnya said, biting her lower lip. "Tell me about the Nephilims."


    Zeo widened his eyes, thrown off by the unexpected question.


    "You''ve always said I was one." She turned to him. "Well, now I want to know more about them."


    He took a moment to process her request and then nodded. "What do you want to know?"


    "Magenta and Marcus told me I was special, and everyone here treats me as if I was some kind of . . . " Remnya huffed. "What are Nephilims good for, anyway?"


    He held his chin, glancing at Remnya''s clenched fists around her flower. "Nephilims are stronger, faster, and more durable than humans, and they have special abilities too. Do you remember how fast your wounds used to heal?"


    "Magenta doesn''t care about that." Rem frowned. "Otherwise, she wouldn''t force me to spend hours learning stupid things such as ''what''s the right way to arrange tableware?'' No!" she shouted, leaning closer, whereas her face was right in front of his.


    Zeo met her eyes, feeling the frustration in her. "A pure Nephilim like you is a rare wonder, Rem. After the Blood War, everyone thought Nephilims were extinct, yet here you are. You are indeed special."


    "Special, uh?" Remnya squinted at him. "Something has been bothering me ever since I arrived here." She observed two birds chirping on a tree. "There''s this girl called Brisa who said Magenta bought me." She curled her lips.


    "Bought you?" Zeo remembered the crazy ideas drilling his head for the past few days.


    "That''s not it! One week ago, this weird man came to the mansion. He seemed to be really interested in me, and in a very weird way!" She gritted her teeth. "You will think this is stupid, but that night, I felt as if Magenta were trying to sell me to him."


    A cold shiver ran down Zeo''s spine. He froze for a second. "That makes no sense, Rem." He laughed nervously. "Where did you get that from?"


    "I don''t know, but a lot of things are out of place here." Rem scowled. "I can''t leave the mansion at all. Only Mr. Ronner takes me outside sometimes. I barely know the city, and I take private classes instead of going to school." She shook her head and slammed her hands on the bench. "One night, I even found a maid badly beaten in her room!"


    Zeo clasped his sweaty hands and swallowed through the knot in his throat. The pieces of his puzzle wanted to fit together. "Rem . . . What was the name of that weird man?"


    "Persen Doman."


    The last piece fit in his head. Zeo felt a heavy cross dropping on his shoulders while his heart sank to the bottom of his stomach. He did his best to hide the war unleashed inside him with a big smile.


    "Everything will be okay, Rem, trust me. No one buys people anymore." He giggled. "You still need to get used to your new life. It''ll take time, but you''ll see how things get better. Plus, I''m here for you now!"


    Rem regarded him with a weak smile and grabbed his hand. "I missed you. I didn''t have anyone to vent like this. I can''t trust anyone else, Zeo."


    Zeo squeezed her soft hand and blushed. Part of him wanted to reveal everything he knew about Magenta and Persen. However, his priority was to find a solution and ensure Rem''s safety.


    "I missed you, too," he stuttered.


    They remained silent.


    She didn''t take her crimson orbs away from him. Zeo enjoyed looking at her beautiful face, but his whole body was trembling and soaked in sweat. He rushed to draw his cell phone out of his pocket and showed it to her.


    "Look! Someone gave me this." Zeo took advantage of the distraction to wipe the sweat off his hands. "Now, you can contact me whenever you want."


    "A phone? I never imagined you had one!" Remnya beamed at him. "That means we can call each other anytime!"


    He nodded. "Whenever something is bothering you, I''ll be here to listen to you."


    "Thank you!" Remnya hugged him, making sure not to hurt his back this time. "You''re the only person I trust here."


    Zeo''s face flushed bright red while his ears burned, but he hugged her back, squeezing her slim body. I''ll protect you, Rem. No matter what I have to do.


    A tender silence embraced them for long seconds.


    "Zeo," Remnya whispered in his ear.


    He swallowed the knot in his throat and stuttered, "Uh-yes, Rem?"


    "You were right. I''m immune to fire."


    *¡ã*¡ã*


    Marcus


    Devil Peaks Park was a green plateau amid undulant hills. Located at the feet of one of the highest mountain chains of Crysalton, it provided a majestic view of the entire city. The place was an oddity held by a massive slope that fell over the abyss. The park became crowded at night when people gathered to witness the glowing city spreading across the valley like an endless swarm of fireflies.


    That afternoon was oddly quiet and warm. Marcus sat on a bench in front of a fountain shooting blue beams of water. Next to him, a young girl ate a tower of ice cream. She had the same sharp obsidian eyes as him and light chocolate hair styled with twin tails. They smiled and talked as they watched the aerial tramways come and go between hills.


    "You need to come with us sometimes," the girl said.


    "I don''t think your mom will like it," Marcus replied.


    "You''ll never know if you don''t ask her!"


    He chuckled and ruffled her hair. "Why don''t you come with me instead? Just the two of us."


    "I want to, but mom says I can''t go with you." She sighed. "I wish it could be like before, dad. The three of us together!"


    Marcus'' finger trembled while he caressed her cheeks. His eyes flickered with sorrow. "Well, baby . . . Some things are more complicated than we would like, but I''ll find a way to make that trip together. I promise." He kissed her head.


    The genuine version of this novel can be found on another site. Support the author by reading it there.


    A black limousine turned into the park and halted nearby. Marcus recognized its silver rims with rubies. The chauffeur opened the back door, and an imposing lady stepped out, sapphires sparkling on her heels. She twisted her lips into a smug grin and sauntered in their direction, drawing men''s eyes to her like a magnet.


    The little girl observed the fancy lady as a smile drew across her face. "Magenta!" she shouted, running toward her.


    Magenta beamed at her. "How are you, Karina, my dear?"


    "I''m great!" Karina wrapped her skinny arms around Magenta. "You''re so pretty today, aunt Magenta!"


    The lady touched her head with her fingertips. "Thank you, my dear. You too."


    "Look!" Karina showed her the ice cream and two stuffed animals. "Dad bought me this!"


    "He''s such a great dad, isn''t he?" Magenta glanced at Marcus, her eyes flashing with poison.


    Marcus let out a deep sigh and walked toward them. "Okay, my girl." He ruffled Karina''s hair. "I need to talk to Magenta. Would you mind waiting for us at the Pink Garden? It won''t take long, I promise."


    The little girl nodded and gifted a smile to Magenta before running away to chase a white dog. Magenta and Marcus exchanged sketchy looks and walked to a lookout on the edge of a cliff.


    Magenta''s smile fell apart as she narrowed her eyes. "Why here, of all places?"


    "I don''t want that boy toy of yours to stick his nose in our business," Marcus said, leaning on the crystal railing.


    "Fair enough. Now, let''s get straight to the point." Magenta folded her arms and huffed. "I couldn''t believe it when I heard it. The nurse''s boyfriend ran away, and as if that wasn''t bad enough, he suspects something about us?"


    Marcus nodded.


    "I can''t believe you, Marcus!" she shouted, glaring at him. "How could you allow this to happen?"


    "I did try to restrain him until Gorth came for him, but I never imagined the Anglish boy would pull such a feat."


    "Calling you stupid would be a compliment for you!" Magenta twisted her carmine lips, shaking her head.


    "Adrian only has suspicions about us. Nothing more." Marcus kept a stone face.


    "And you confirmed them by trying to kill him, big idiot!"


    "I didn''t want to kill him. I tried to win time for Gorth because my priority was the Anglish¡ª"


    "You did neither!" Magenta seized his shirt collar, pulling his face against hers. "What do we do now, Marcus?"


    "I''ll take care of Adrian. Trust me, I know where he is." Marcus grabbed Magenta''s wrists, softly disentangling her fingers from his.


    She brushed a strand of hair off of her face. "What about the nurse? Where is she?"


    "You should ask Ronner about that. He''s the main reason all this struggle ensued on us." Marcus frowned.


    "That''s why I am so pissed at both of you!" Magenta bellowed, drawing several eyes toward them. She clenched her fists and lowered her voice. "Fucking stupid men, you don''t use your brain! You are all like animals driven by instinct. All this could have been avoided!"


    "I apologize, my lady," Marcus said sarcastically.


    "Don''t give me that shit!" Karina, who was petting a dog, glanced at them with a concerned expression. Magenta took a deep breath, her face red like a pepper. She folded her arms and tapped her heel on the asphalt. "You already identified his location. Now, leave the rest to me. I got a more important mission for you and that other fool."


    Marcus widened his eyes.


    "I''ll take the delicate matters in my hands, but you and Ronner will take care of those brutes from Karx." Magenta''s eyes pierced Marcus'' soul. "You two will go to their cave or whatever disgusting place they inhabit and get a good deal for me."


    "My lady, you . . . "


    "Don''t get me wrong!" Magenta yelled, pointing at his face. "I''m not doing this for you or the Nephilim! I just hate Persen as much as you do, and even though his offer is tempting, I''d rather not have to see his gross face every day. Like I would have to if I agreed to his terms."


    A slight smile drew across Marcus'' face. "Thank you."


    Magenta locked her eyes on him and caressed his face and lips with her fingertips. "Is this so important for you?"


    "Yes." His tone was categorical.


    "Okay . . . " Magenta ran her fingers along his neck and tried to kiss his cheek.


    Marcus leaned away from her. He stood still with his arms bound to his sides and his stare fixated straight ahead. "Magenta, please. Not here . . . "


    Magenta buried her nails into Marcus'' skin, the veins on her forehead swelling. "Why? Is this because of your fucking promise?"


    "It''s better this way, Magenta," he murmured, his eyes lost on the horizon. "There''s no point in trying anymore."


    The lady turned to observe Marcus''s daughter playing with three stray dogs, who licked her face. The little girl laughed and hopped around, her hair a happy mess. "That little spawn . . . You didn''t even love that bitch of her mother."


    "I didn''t." Marcus'' eyes turned to his daughter. "But I love my girl more than anything in the world."


    Magenta let out a silent sigh and turned her back to him, her black dress dancing around her long legs. "You''ll go to Karx and convince them to pay more than Persen." Magenta glared at him. "But if you fail, your dear Nephilim will belong to that pig, and it''ll be your fault."


    Magenta whirled and walked away, her heels resounding on the ground.


    *¡ã*¡ã*


    Over twenty kilometers from the mansion, near the slums of the city, Marcus drove the most expensive Magenta''s car. It wasn''t the most luxurious, but certainly the safest. Its armored body could withstand the most severe damage and keep the passengers alive in the worst apocalyptic scenario.


    Three cars in total. Ronner led the way alone, Marcus followed him with two armed men, and one last car covered their back.


    They headed to one of Karx''s hideouts, far from the city and hidden from the eyes of the law. Karx was a large, infamous organization composed of warriors from different origins. Among their ranks, Hybrids, Humans, and Others fought as one.


    But their armies became weaker every day. The Blood War had left them scarred with wounds that threatened to end their legacy.


    Labeled as a terrorist group by the government, they were hunted like animals by the Earth''s Elite Forces, also known as The Hunters. While the weaker armies perished, the stronger ones resisted. One of those armies, known as the Lazio Coalition, still fought, refusing to give up. Ronner and Marcus would meet them that night.


    They arrived at a ghost village surrounded by thick mountain forests. They parked next to a crumbling building on the slope of a hill. Deep darkness engulfed the place, except for the waxing moon casting a weak light on the dry soil.


    A reddish lamp next to a door swung with the wind, lightning the rough face of a bulky man who waited for their arrival. He gestured at them with lifeless eyes and then faded into the building. Ronner followed him, smirking as he led the pack confidently. Marcus went after him, calm but wary of his surroundings. Two of their men accompanied them inside while the rest stayed by the cars.


    They halted at what resembled an abandoned factory. Improvised lights hung from the ceiling, illuminating the interior with a weak yellow glow. Ronner shook the dust off an old chair and sat with his arms folded. Marcus scanned the place; there was darkness beyond the reach of the lights. He wondered how many eyes observed them from the shadows.


    "Welcome," a raspy voice said as an old man stepped out of the darkness. He was short and slender, with gray and black stripes on his hair and a weird tattoo on the left half of his face. He was wearing a sleeveless shirt that displayed thin yet steel-hard arms. "I''m glad you came." He smiled, multiple branches of wrinkles breaking across his face.


    "Captain Ramos, isn''t it?" Ronner asked, scratching his chin.


    "That''s correct." He bobbed his head. "I apologize for the poor conditions. We didn''t have time to clean." The old man sat on the floor and analyzed their faces. "Can I offer you something to drink?"


    "No need for fake courtesy," Ronner said, leaning forward with a cocky smile. "How much?"


    Ramos chuckled, unfazed by Ronner''s attitude. "Three million Dentz."


    "Not enough, Persen is paying four."


    Ramos regarded him with focused, wine-red eyes. "You know we will provide your girl with the best training she can have to develop her abilities. Plus, we''ll keep her safe and healthy. Can Persen do that?"


    "I don''t know, nor I care. He''s paying more, that''s it." Ronner folded his arms and winked at two blue eyes glaring at him from the shadows.


    "That house of yours is no place for a Nephilim. Her potential will go to waste in such a poor environment." Ramos shook his head and caressed his thin beard. "And Persen . . . That scum will ruin her, you know it."


    "The lady decides." Ronner shrugged, distracted by a moth flying by his head.


    "Captain," Marcus interrupted, taking one step forward. "The lady won''t change her mind unless you improve your offer." He stared Ramos straight in the eyes. "Remnya is a precious gem. You can''t allow a swine like Persen to put his hands on her."


    The captain lifted his eyes, locking them on Marcus. He nodded with a smile. "Help me here, then. The war has been cruel, we don''t have a lot of money left. Nephilim or not, we have to feed her and take care of all her needs. Teenage girls are complicated." He chuckled. "My granddaughter is the perfect example."


    "Four Dentz and four of your best men," Marcus said firmly.


    "Four of our best men?" Ramos held his chin and stayed silent for a moment. "It wouldn''t be the first time Karx provides the Lovecraft mansion with men." He glanced at Ronner with a smirk.


    Ronner stifled a chuckle. "I did what I had to do, captain."


    "Ronner Kavalar, ex-Lieutenant of the 237 division, Silver Army." Ramos grinned. "You seem to enjoy your peaceful life better than here."


    "I''m weak to women and money, and I don''t like to get dirty, captain," Ronner said as a smug smile spread across his face.


    "We need strong men like you. The next battle might change the fate of Karx forever." Ramos eased himself from the floor and walked up to Ronner. "I''m willing to pay four million Dentz and provide Magenta with four of my best men, but in exchange, I want your services, Lieutenant Ronner." His tone became grave and sharp as he stared deep into his eyes.


    Ronner scoffed, looking away with visible annoyance. "Are you asking me to risk my precious life for your stupid cause? Am I hearing right?"


    "No. I''m asking for your services in one single battle. That''s it."


    "Ronner, please," Marcus said, gazing at Ronner. "This is the best for every one of us."


    "Marcus." Ronner shook his head. "I was right about you. You care about the Nephilim girl too much."


    "You know the mansion is no place for her." Marcus narrowed his eyes as he clenched his fists. "I might not possess your skills, but I''m willing to risk my life with you if that means accepting this deal."


    Ronner raised one eyebrow and sniggered. He stood up, pushing Marcus aside as he paced over to Ramos. Ronner closed his eyes, stretched his arms, and let out a deep sigh. "Fine . . . I guess we have a deal then."


    Ramos bobbed his head and offered his hand to Ronner. "You won''t regret this."


    They shook hands. Ramos and Marcus exchanged looks while Ronner rolled his eyes.


    The deal was closed.


    *¡ã*¡ã*

 Remnya ~Artwork~

Remnya by Crysom


    <figure style="text-align: center">


    If you find this story on Amazon, be aware that it has been stolen. Please report the infringement.


    </figure>

 14: A Shot In The Dark

    Ronner


    Ramos¡¯ army gathered in the forest bordering the outskirts of Crysalton. A tense atmosphere lingered among the warriors, who tried to distract themselves with alcohol and music. Whether they lived or died, that would be their last battle.


    The war against The Hunters had been long and deadly. The Hunters were gifted warriors loyal to no one but the people. Rumors claimed there were still pure Nephilims among their ranks, but no one knew for sure. Their main motto was to protect the weak, but it varied according to their interests.


    Marcus¡¯ first choice had been to offer Remnya to The Hunters, but Magenta refused, arguing she wanted to avoid them at all costs. Most Hunters wouldn¡¯t see the trading of a young girl with good eyes. A word in the wrong ears and her whole empire would crumble like a sandcastle.


    Ronner walked among the suspicious stares of Ramos¡¯ soldiers with a cocky smile. He looked different without his fancy suit. That night, he dressed in combat clothes: a black sleeveless shirt of bulletproof fabric, a black leather belt reforged with diamonds, and military pants, matched by combat boots. His muscular body and clothes choices made him look like a veteran warrior.


    He had been part of Karx for several years, led a big army, and fought several battles. No one knew how he ended up as one of Magenta¡¯s men. People gossiped she had bewitched him. How could a prideful warrior like him follow orders from a simple woman? The men of Karx wondered, but no one dared to question his decisions. His loyalty toward Magenta gave her the edge over anyone who tried to challenge her empire.


    However, that night Ronner was a mere stranger in enemy territory. Everyone shot him daggers of contempt and fear.


    ¡°The captain trusts your word, but I don¡¯t,¡± Prad, the first officer, said, standing in front of Ronner. He was an immense broad man, two heads taller than Ronner and twice as wide. He had penetrating, yellow eyes and long, black hair wrapped in a pigtail that touched his waist. ¡°Try anything suspicious, and you¡¯re a dead man, yo¡¯ hear me?¡±


    Ronner shrugged. ¡°Don¡¯t worry, Prad. Once I¡¯m done here, you won¡¯t have to see my pretty face again.¡± Ronner smirked as he slapped the big man¡¯s shoulder.


    Prad glared at his hand. His fists trembled as if he were holding back not to tear Ronner¡¯s arm apart. Prad groaned, smacking his hand away, and turned around to leave.


    Ronner laughed and continued toward Ramos¡¯ tent. They met next to a campfire with blue flames. Three lamps hanging from a wire attached to the trees illuminated a map spread across a wooden table. A young blonde girl in a combat outfit accompanied Ramos. She darted a glare at Ronner, her blue orbs shining with hatred.


    ¡°What is he doing here?¡± she asked, springing from her seat.


    ¡°Calm down, Kana. He¡¯s with us.¡± Ramos leaned his hand on her shoulder.


    ¡°He can not be trusted!¡± Kana shrieked, clenching her right hand into a fist that began glowing red.


    Ronner smirked as he walked toward her. ¡°She¡¯s gotten beautiful, hasn¡¯t she?¡± He winked.


    Kana aimed her hand at his face. ¡°I¡¯ll kill you right here.¡± Her palm sparkled with branches of electricity.


    ¡°Enough!¡± Ramos seized her hand, causing the energy to disappear.


    She scoffed, shooting a deathly glare at Ronner before storming away. Ronner smiled at her reaction while Ramos sighed.


    ¡°Forgive her attitude, Lieutenant Ronner. She¡¯s still a child,¡± Ramos said as he flattened the map in front of them.


    Ronner shrugged and grabbed a bottle of liquor sitting on the ground.


    ¡°Alright, I need your attention here.¡± Ramos pointed at the map of the city. ¡°The Hunters will be waiting for us at Blackriver. We¡¯re sending a few men there as bait.¡± Ramos glanced at Ronner, who nodded with a bored expression. ¡°We will attack their fort at Black Hill. They won¡¯t see us coming. Now, if they try to retreat, the rest of our men will hold them back until we destroy their front lines.¡±


    ¡°Sounds good, captain. Your strategies always startle me,¡± Ronner said in a disinterested tone.


    The army gathered with Ramos and Ronner, who stood at the edge of a hill. The men attacking Blackriver would send a flare signal soon, which meant they had ten minutes to arrive at The Hunters¡¯ fort and initiate the attack.


    The tense seconds felt like hours.


    A blue ball hissed in the sky, turning the night into day.


    ¡°Was that light supposed to be that color?¡± A confused guy murmured.


    ¡°Let¡¯s go!¡± Ramos roared, dashing downhill into the forest. Ronner and the rest followed him.


    They sprinted through the darkness, dodging trees, rocks, and deep pits. They crossed a wide river with icy waters and came to a halt behind a low ridge.


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    ¡°There,¡± Ramos whispered, pointing at the fort located a few hundred meters ahead of them. They could reach it within one minute. ¡°Lieutenant Ronner, this is the time.¡± He glanced at Ronner and then focused his deep eyes on their target.


    Ronner nodded. He knew they had to attack first while the rest surrounded the fort. Being the strongest ones, they would do most of the damage. A smirk spread across Ronner¡¯s face as he cracked his knuckles, waiting for the signal.


    ¡°Now!¡± Ramos let out a war cry as he jumped over the ridge and dashed toward the fort like a bullet. Ronner followed him, matching his velocity quickly.


    Ramos charged energy in his palms until they glowed into scarlet fireballs. The captain was a known fire Elementalist. Ronner gazed at him, mesmerized by the sight as Ramos launched his first attack.


    A large stream of blinding flames spurted from his hand and impacted the sidewalls of the fort, destroying them as fire engulfed the place.


    Four men rushed outside and charged at them.


    Ronner dodged the first one with ease and elbowed him in the back of his head, sending his face crashing into the ground. A second one tried kicking Ronner from behind, but fast and light as a feather, he ducked and crushed his ribs from below with a powerful uppercut.


    Ramos stopped two punches aimed at his face and then hopped over his attackers. Before they could react, Ramos blinded them with two white fireballs that landed on them, causing a big explosion. Body parts and debris flew into the air, along with tongues of fire.


    The last man alive froze at the sight of his dead companions. He tried to retreat, but Ronner emerged from behind the smoke and slammed his head against a rock, crushing his skull like an egg. Ronner¡¯s brute strength was unmatched.


    Having defeated the four men, they rushed to the fort and destroyed the electric fences surrounding it. Ronner kicked the entrance gates, cracking the metal in half. They pushed the gates open and scanned the unknown place.


    Surprisingly, it was empty and in the dark.


    *¡ã*¡ã*


    The atmosphere changed as the black smoke of the fires covered the night sky, drowning the stars. It was odd. Those men had been too weak; they couldn¡¯t be part of The Hunters with such poor skills. Ronner noticed no one of Ramos¡¯ warriors had arrived at the fort yet. They had to surround it, yet all he saw was darkness and chilling silence.


    ¡°Something is wrong,¡± Ramos said, extinguishing the fire in his hands. However, Ronner said nothing. He was standing still with his back turned to the Captain.


    ¡°Lieutenant Ronner!¡± Ramos shouted. ¡°Are you okay?¡±


    Destiny had different plans for the warriors. Ronner¡¯s body began convulsing as he stifled his increasing laughter. But unable to hold it any longer, he guffawed maniacally, turning the silence into a tragic joke.


    Ramos widened his eyes as Ronner turned to face him. ¡°It was a pleasure working with you, Captain Ramos,¡± Ronner said, smirking.


    The realization struck Ramos like lightning, but it was too late. His eyes saw the movement, but his body couldn¡¯t react in time.


    Ronner¡¯s right arm glowed like an electric fire from hell, and with a violent thrust, he pierced through Ramos¡¯ chest like a drill through a piece of glass.


    His face showed no pain, just misery.


    The metallic smell of blood filled the air as a stream of crimson ran along Ronner¡¯s arm, showering the ground.


    Ramos¡¯ body became paralyzed as he stared vacantly at his own demise. Finally, the Captain raised his eyes to meet the face of the traitor.


    ¡°Why?¡± he muttered.


    Ronner¡¯s deep blue eyes shone in the darkness, his smile growing as he marveled at his deed. ¡°Did you really think I would risk my life for you?¡± His voice was as cold as the river they had just crossed together.


    ¡°My army . . . Where are they?¡± Ramos¡¯ voice began losing its strength.


    ¡°Dead.¡± Ronner yanked his arm out of his chest violently, releasing a cascade of blood, flesh, and bones that soaked the soil. Ramos stumbled but refused to fall. ¡°The Hunters knew your intentions, so they allowed you to walk straight into a trap.¡±


    ¡°Traitor! How could you betray Karx?¡± Ramos¡¯ legs trembled as he struggled to breathe.


    ¡°Karx is finished. You lost the war. But I¡¯m not gonna go down with you.¡± Ronner shook his arm, splattering blood across his face.


    ¡°You gave me your word . . . I trusted you!¡± Ramos coughed red droplets as he fell to his knees, his eyes lost in a void.


    Ronner chuckled. ¡°Let¡¯s just say someone else hit the jackpot and I couldn¡¯t reject his offer.¡± He motioned at a silhouette standing in the darkness. ¡°Sir, why don¡¯t you come closer?¡±


    Ramos¡¯ eyes filled with fire when he recognized the man in a red suit walking toward him, accompanied by two guards. He had a wide smug smile on his fat face and smoked a cigar.


    ¡°Persen Doman!¡± Ramos roared, full of hatred.


    ¡°Hello,¡± Persen said, waving at him like a child. ¡°Such a pitiful sight.¡± He blew a mouthful of smoke.


    ¡°Sorry, Captain, but Persen doubled your offer.¡± Ronner removed his blood-stained shirt. ¡°Or should I call you Governor Doman?¡± He regarded Persen with a smirk.


    ¡°It has a nice ring to it!¡± Persen guffawed, displaying his yellow teeth shining with gold. He had been elected governor of Crysalton, and with it, sealed the fate of Ramos¡¯ army. The Captain despised Persen because of his participation in the fall of Karx, plus his lack of ethics and morals. Persen would side with whoever was on the winning side. Now, he was siding with The Hunters.


    ¡°Hey, boys! Show our dear Captain what happens when you go against the new world order!¡± Persen shouted at Viper and Skado.


    They walked toward Ramos and threw something at him. As it rolled in his direction, he recognized it, the severed head of his first officer, Prad. Prad seemed to look at him with his lifeless, swollen eyes. Ramos grimaced in pain, contemplating the sight.


    Another head rolled toward The Captain, thrown by Skado. Ramos gasped when her blonde hair shined under the glow of the fire. That was Kana. Her beautiful blue eyes shut forever.


    Ronner walked over to the severed head and picked it up by the hair. Her blood was still warm. ¡°Such a waste.¡± He shook his head. ¡°She was a cute girl, don¡¯t you agree, Captain?¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t touch her!¡± Ramos roared, darting out of the ground with his last bit of strength. But his legs didn¡¯t respond, and his face hit the ground.


    Ronner sniggered and threw the head away. ¡°Don¡¯t worry, Captain, I¡¯m a man of mercy. I¡¯ll allow you to meet with them soon.¡±


    Ramos trembled in great pain and hatred, his stare lost in the void of the night. A beautiful sight, feeding Ronner¡¯s lust. The Captain kneeled on the floor, waiting for his end. Everything and everyone he had once loved was now gone.


    And it had been his fault.


    This is mercy. Nothing else.


    ¡°I¡¯m sorry, I¡¯ve failed you all,¡± Ramos murmured as tears rolled down his bloody cheeks. Finally, he raised his eyes to face Ronner, who held him by the hair.


    ¡°Lieutenant Ronner, remember this face when you meet your own demise. Because one day, you all will pay for all your sins.¡± Ramos grinned as if his words had released some pain from his torn heart. ¡°The person you least expect it will avenge us. I can promise you that.¡±


    Ronner¡¯s smirk faded as he nodded at Viper.


    Viper walked up to them, and with a quick swift of his blade, he put an end to Ramos¡¯ misery.


    His eyes closed as his head rolled on the ground.


    *¡ã*¡ã*

 15: Redemption

    Marcus


    Marcus stormed through the halls of the mansion, slamming doors and breaking the decoration. His face threatened to unleash havoc on anyone who dared to step in his way. He searched for Magenta everywhere until a poor butler told him her location.


    Magenta was sunbathing on a chaise lounge chair at one of her courtyards. She was wearing a white beach dress with a discrete floral design, sunglasses, and a wide sunhat. A maid stood by her side, pouring mango juice into her cup.


    Marcus rushed toward her and ordered the maid to get lost with a glare. The scared girl ran away, leaving the two of them alone. Magenta lowered her sunglasses to look at him.


    "You look awful, Marcus," she said.


    "Mind explaining what the hell is the meaning of this?" His voice rumbled throughout the courtyard.


    The lady sighed as she sat up. "Persen won, that''s it." Her voice was calm.


    "That''s it?" He clenched his fists. "Ramos'' army was obliterated! We had a deal!"


    "We did, but Persen''s offer was impossible to reject." She took off her sunglasses. "Six million Dentz, plus his protection. We are untouchable now, Marcus. Can you believe it?" Magenta beamed at him.


    "Fuck that!" Marcus snapped. "Hundreds of people died, and one innocent girl has been sold like a slave!" His throat knotted with anger. "What have you turned into, Magenta?"


    Magenta scowled as she eased herself from her chair. She walked up to Marcus and stung her eyes on his. "I did what I had to do!" she shouted in his face. "Persen is our new governor. We have his protection now, and we are more powerful than ever! I did this for us. Why can''t you understand that?"


    Marcus stared at her with contempt and shook his head. "Power has blinded you. You''re no better than Persen." His voice filled with poison. "I should''ve left you where I found you."


    "What did you say?" She glared at him, lips quivering as her face flushed with fury. "What the fuck do you know, Marcus?" Magenta seized his collar, yanking him toward her face. "Do you know all the shit I had to go through to achieve this? All the disgusting things I had to do? The fuck you know! You ran away when I needed you!"


    He pulled her hands off him. "I didn''t run away. You drove me away with your insanity. And now I see I was right . . . You''re a monster."


    Those words pierced Magenta like knives. She slapped him and then began punching him, but Marcus seized her arms and pushed her away from him.


    "I''m done with you, fucking coward!" she roared. "Get the fuck outta here! I don''t need you anymore! Go!" Her screams attracted the servants, who gathered by the windows and doors. Ronner, who had been watching the scene from above, yelled at them to disappear. In one second, every servant vanished.


    "Do you expect me to leave the poor girl alone?" Marcus took one menacing step forward. "I won''t allow it!"


    Magenta laughed between her clenched teeth. "You''re leaving. It is an order you''re gonna follow whether you like it or not."


    "And what if I don''t?"


    She lowered her head, tightening her fists. Blood ran between her fingers as she buried her nails into her palms. "If you don''t . . . Your girl and that bitch of your ex-wife will suffer the consequences." Magenta lifted her gaze at him, her eyes a green tempest. "Please, don''t push me anymore . . . Go, Marcus, disappear from my sight."


    The time froze.


    Marcus could only hear his heart screaming and kicking in his chest as turmoil built up in his mind. He could not believe that woman was the same one he had once loved.


    There was no point in words anymore. Marcus took a deep breath and swallowed the knot in his throat. The anger in his chest had vanished. It was something else, a feeling he couldn''t understand, but it tore his soul apart.


    Marcus gazed at her for the last time; in search of traces of the young girl he used to know.


    There was none.


    He nodded, bowed to her, and walked away.


    Magenta locked her eyes on the ground, refusing to look at him until his steps faded into the distance. She rubbed her eyes and grabbed a bottle of champagne next to her chair.


    "You idiot!" she yelled at Ronner. "Make sure he''s gone by tomorrow!"


    "Should I hurt him a little?" Ronner asked, smirking at her from a window.


    "No . . . " Magenta drank from the bottle and then smashed it against the floor. She stared at her wrists, red bruises spread across her skin, along with the marks of Marcus'' fingers.


    "Do not dare to hurt him . . . "


    *¡ã*¡ã*


    The evening glowed orange as the sun faded behind the mountains. Marcus packed his last suitcase in the trunk of his car, an old sedan he had owned for a long time, and stood still contemplating the gloomy horizon.


    He had always put his daughter''s life first and would do it until the end. However, leaving the little Nephilim behind destroyed his soul.


    Footsteps caught his attention.


    Marcus widened his eyes at the sight of Remnya, who stared at him from the porch. She had been distant ever since that incident with Brisa, which helped to make his departure easier, but now that she was there with her crimson eyes fixed on him, his heart sank into the abyss.


    "So, it was true," Remnya said, walking toward him with both hands in her pockets.


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    "I thought you didn''t want to see me anymore," Marcus replied, closing the trunk.


    "Where are you going?"


    He stared vacantly into the garden. "Far from here."


    "I see." Remnya curled her lips and paced over to his car in silence, avoiding eye contact. "Dinner will be boring without you."


    "I''m sorry, Remnya," he mumbled.


    "For what?"


    Marcus took a deep breath. "For everything, I guess. Just promise me you will be strong."


    She raised her eyebrows. "Aren''t you coming back?"


    He tightened his lips and remained silent for long seconds. "I want you to know I care about you, and despite the bad things you''ve heard, I tried to do my best to protect you."


    Remnya shot a glare at him. "You always talk about protecting me, yet you never did. You don''t protect anyone!" She raised her voice.


    Marcus lowered his head. Her words stung like hot needles. "You''re right. I suck at protecting people. That''s why I''m leaving."


    "Mr. Ronner said you were fired because of what you did to Brisa."


    Marcus clenched his fists. His lips quivered as hatred invaded his mind. Ronner had forced him to take the blame for it. If he dared to tell Remnya the truth, her daughter would suffer the consequences.


    "I''m sorry, Remnya." He looked away to hide his burning eyes.


    Remnya fixed her eyes on the ground and let out a deep sigh. "But even if you did that, I will still miss you."


    Marcus lifted his gaze, realizing she was holding back her tears. An acute pain oppressed his chest as the thoughts of her dark future tortured his mind. He knelt in front of her and spread his arms.


    Remnya hesitated. She clenched her teeth and scowled at Marcus, but finally, she buried her face in his chest. He squeezed her body as she tightened her grasp on him. Her thin arms felt like a press around him. He could tell she was no ordinary girl.


    At that moment, Marcus felt he was abandoning her own daughter.


    She groaned with anger and glared at him. "You have no idea how much I wished everything Mr. Ronner said was a big lie!"


    The silence was Marcus'' only answer, a silence crawling through his chest, tearing his insides apart as it tried to escape its cage of slanders.


    They remained together until the sun died and the night was born.


    When Marcus released her body, he stared at her straight into the eyes. "Be strong, like you''ve been until now," Marcus whispered as he ruffled her hair.


    "I will." She bobbed her head, not a single tear in the eyes of that prideful girl.


    Marcus stood up and gifted her his last smile. He got in his car and adjusted his mirror until its reflection showed him Remnya''s face.


    He gazed at his little Nephilim for the last time and drove away, leaving a trail of silence behind him.


    *¡ã*¡ã*


    Marcus lifted his gaze at the old inn in front of him and puffed his cigarette. The orange paint of the walls was peeling off, revealing the moisture that ate the concrete. He turned off his phone and cracked it in half before removing its chip and burning it with his lighter. The Lady wouldn¡¯t need to call him anymore.


    Throwing his cigarette away, Marcus walked into the inn in search of his last hope. The receptionist glanced at him suspiciously, but a thick bundle of money loosened her mouth, answering all his questions. She nodded and swore to stay silent while Marcus executed his plan.


    Room 14 on the second floor was his destination.


    Marcus knocked on the door several times in the hope of avoiding forcing his way into the room.


    ¡°I already had dinner. Thanks,¡± a voice said from the inside, and Marcus knew he was in the right place.


    ¡°Now,¡± Marcus whispered in the ear of the women he held at gunpoint in front of the room.


    ¡°We have a message for Mr. Adrian Montero,¡± she said nervously. ¡°Can you please unlock the door so I can confirm your identity?¡±


    Silence.


    Marcus knew Adrian had been moving from one place to another for weeks, using taxis and buses to move across the town, and sleeping in cheap inns.


    As Adrian peeped through the keyhole, Marcus pushed the receptionist forward and stayed out of sight.


    Finally, Montero opened the door, and his tired face turned pale like a ghost.


    ¡°Thank you, miss,¡± Marcus said, releasing the scared girl.


    Adrian tried to slam the door on him, but Marcus kicked it open, pushing the young man away. Marcus rushed to lock the door while Adrian raised his fists, ready to defend himself.


    ¡°I¡¯m not here to fight,¡± Marcus stated, taking one step forward.


    ¡°If you think you can take me to Magenta, you¡¯re wrong! You¡¯ll have to kill me first!¡± Adrian shouted as he jumped over his bed and reached for a gun hidden under his pillow.


    Marcus darted toward him and smacked his chest, throwing Adrian out of the bed before he could reach his pistol. Marcus rushed to grab the gun, unloaded it, and tossed it on the floor next to Adrian.


    ¡°As I said, I¡¯m not here to fight. I¡¯m not your enemy.¡±


    ¡°Bullshit! You hurt Ellyn and tried to kill me! You¡¯re scum!¡± Adrian crawled toward a knife gleaming on a small wooden table, but Marcus quickly seized his arms, twisting them behind his back.


    ¡°Listen to me!¡± Marcus pinned Adrian down, holding him against the cold floor. ¡°If I wanted to take you to Magenta, I would¡¯ve done so long ago. I wouldn¡¯t be wasting my time trying to reason with you!¡± Marcus tightened his grip on Adrian, who kept twisting his body. ¡°You can hate me all you want, but I¡¯m honest when I say I have nothing to do with Ellyn¡¯s disappearance!¡±


    Adrian stopped fighting and thought for a moment. ¡°What the hell do you want then?¡±


    ¡°I want to save the Nephilim girl.¡± Marcus released his arms.


    ¡°Why? Since when do you care about others?¡± Adrian shot daggers of contempt from his eyes.


    ¡°Does it matter? I need your help, and you need mine. I know who kidnapped Ellyn.¡±


    Adrian widened his eyes. ¡°Who?¡±


    ¡°Ronner.¡± Marcus¡¯s expression darkened. ¡°You may think I¡¯m a monster, I don¡¯t care, but know this: Ronner is the one who you should be terrified of.¡±


    ¡°Why would he kidnap Ellyn?¡±


    ¡°He wasn¡¯t happy with our decision of allowing her to live after we . . . ¡° Marcus tightened his lips.


    ¡°So, it was true . . . You killed Orena too.¡±


    ¡°What¡¯s done is done.¡± Marcus¡¯s voice was ice. ¡°She was scum, and I don¡¯t regret it.¡±


    Adrian gave him a sidelong glance. ¡°And you expect me to trust a murderer like you?¡±


    ¡°Not like you have a choice, anyway. It¡¯s just a matter of time until Ronner finds you and tortures you to death. But with my help, you have a chance to survive and find Ellyn.¡±


    Montero folded his arms and stayed pensive for a while. ¡°What do you want from me, exactly?¡±


    ¡°My hands are tied right now. If I dare to go against Magenta, they will hurt my daughter.¡± He leaned closer to stare into his eyes. ¡°But you can do something. I¡¯ll provide you with the info you need, and we can find a way to reach the people from Karx.¡±


    ¡°Karx? Why them?¡±


    ¡°Karx hates Ronner and Persen. Those two have betrayed them and caused the death of thousands of their people. They would be happy to destroy those traitors.¡±


    ¡°Why would Karx need our help? Aren¡¯t they powerful enough?¡±


    ¡°Ronner is a hybrid Nephilim, and his abilities are unmatched, plus he has an army backing him up, while Persen is protected by his two sons: Viper and Skado, the dark faction of The Hunters, and his personal army.¡±


    Adrian held his chin. ¡°So, basically, Persen is untouchable.¡±


    ¡°The core of his power resides in his immense fortune and his sons, two powerful hybrids he created and brainwashed into loyal servants.¡± Marcus paced around the room.


    ¡°The Nephilim girl . . . What does he want her for?¡± Adrian gulped.


    Marcus clenched his fists. ¡°He¡¯ll use her for his sick goals, just like he did with others before her. He¡¯ll use her to create powerful hybrids.¡± Marcus¡¯ voice trembled. ¡°However, Remnya is the first pure Nephilim he has laid his dirty hands on.¡±


    Adrian¡¯s gaze fell to the ground, hesitation on his face. ¡°Alright.¡° He sighed and stood up, taking a deep breath. ¡°I¡¯ll help you, not only because I want to save Ellyn, but also because I want to save that girl and the boy.¡±


    ¡°We¡¯re running out of time.¡± Marcus peeked outside from behind the curtains of a small window. ¡°We better start moving now.¡±


    Adrian grabbed his bag and shoved a few clothes in. ¡°Why are you taking such a risk?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m tired of watching innocent people die, or used as guinea pigs by them.¡± Marcus stuck a tiny device on the wall. ¡°I¡¯ve made mistakes. I am a murderer like you said. But if I am to die, at least I¡¯ll go doing the right thing . . . for my family, Remnya, and myself.¡±


    Adrian bobbed his head and tightened his grasp on a picture of Ellyn he carried in his pocket.


    The last hope.


    *¡ã*¡ã*

 16: The Calm Before A Storm

    It had been raining all day, but that night, as a dim prelude, the full moon peeked out from behind dark indigo clouds. The wet streets surrounding the mansion gleamed with the blue headlights of Persen¡¯s limousine, leaving a trail of red spray behind.


    Shiny white boots with gold and diamonds crawled out of the vehicle as Persen stood tall with a smug smirk. He was dressed in a white tuxedo with a red ribbon tie and had a crimson rose on his lapel. His bodyguards accompanied him, wearing their classic black suits.


    Ronner waited for him at the porch, wearing his favorite jet blue suit and shoes and faithful to his style, no tie for meaningful meetings.


    Persen and Ronner didn¡¯t say a word and just exchanged sketchy looks before shaking hands.


    They all headed to the dining hall, where Magenta waited with a gloomy look on her face. She still beamed at Persen and invited him to sit. Magenta and Persen sat at both ends of the table, facing each other. Ronner sat in the middle by Magenta¡¯s right side, while the bodyguards preferred to stand by the doorway.


    ¡°Let¡¯s celebrate!¡± Persen smiled, lifting a cup.


    ¡°What are we celebrating?¡± Ronner asked.


    ¡°The beginning of a great alliance . . . No! A great friendship that will transcend time!¡±


    Ronner rolled his eyes as they made a toast with Magenta¡¯s most expensive wine.


    ¡°But this celebration wouldn¡¯t be complete without the star of this night, the one who made it all possible!¡± Persen¡¯s eyes shone. ¡°My beautiful Nephilim!¡±


    Magenta grimaced in a reflex response, but a smile quickly forced its way across her face.


    ¡°Don¡¯t be so anxious, my friend. You¡¯ll have plenty of time with her.¡± Ronner gestured at Maria, who peeked at them from behind the doorway. The maid bobbed her head and left.


    Magenta curled her lips and drank her wine in silence. She had her eyes fixed on the table and nodded at Persen¡¯s questions without paying much attention.


    Remnya


    Remnya was adjusting the white ribbon on her head when Maria came for her. She was in a good mood; dining with Mr. Ronner was a rare opportunity. Remnya was wearing Ronner¡¯s present too: a white dress he had bought her on one of their trips to the shopping. It looked perfect on her and matched the white heels with diamonds Magenta had given her.


    As they arrived at the dining hall, Remnya¡¯s smile fell apart. ¡°Him?¡± Remnya yelled, pointing at Persen, who had his back turned to her. ¡°What is he doing here?¡±


    ¡°He¡¯s our special guest, young lady,¡± Maria replied, glancing at Magenta, who glared at her to hurry. ¡°You need to be polite with him like the lady you are.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m not a lady! And I don¡¯t like that old man!¡± Remnya pushed Maria out of her way. The maid almost fell as Remnya whirled to return to her room.


    Magenta gestured at Ronner, who was holding his laughter as he observed Maria¡¯s reaction. He said nothing and sprang out of his seat toward Remnya.


    ¡°Please, Rem,¡± Ronner said, grabbing Remnya¡¯s hand gently, which caused her to stop and look at him. ¡°I know you don¡¯t like that old creep. No one does. But we need to endure his presence here tonight. That¡¯s how business works.¡±


    Remnya curled her lips and squeezed his hand. ¡°He makes me feel uncomfortable, and I don¡¯t want to be left alone with him again!¡±


    ¡°You won¡¯t, I promise. I¡¯ll stay with you all the time.¡± Ron beamed at her.


    She tried to hide the smile drawing across her face. ¡°Really?¡±


    He nodded. ¡°And If he makes you feel uncomfortable, I¡¯ll kick his ass.¡±


    Remnya giggled. ¡°Okay . . . Only because you¡¯re asking me, Mr. Ron.¡± She blushed.


    They returned to the dining hall. Persen¡¯s eyes darted at her like magnets, locking on her new dress. Remnya ignored his disgusting presence, and despite Magenta¡¯s orders, she dragged her chair next to Ronner, sitting between him and Magenta.


    Magenta glared at her. She had purposely placed her chair closer to Persen. Ronner tried to hold his laughter, but a small chuckle escaped his lips.


    ¡°How are you, young Remnya?¡± Persen asked, scanning her face. ¡°You look splendid tonight!¡± His eyes dropped to her chest.


    ¡°Thank you,¡± Remnya mumbled as she played with the tableware.


    ¡°I¡¯m so glad we got to meet again! I had missed you since our last encounter.¡± His yellow teeth gleamed with gold.


    Remnya ignored him and focused on building a tower with a fork and a spoon.


    ¡°Anyhow!¡± Magenta raised her voice, snatching the fork from Remnya¡¯s hands. ¡°Dinner is ready!¡±


    Four cooks entered the hall, carrying several big plates that they carefully placed across the table.


    Remnya gaped when she spotted Zeo among them. He had a serious expression and held two plates in each hand. She waved at him, and he replied with a nod and a smile.


    When Zeo passed by Remnya to place the last plate, he tossed a tiny folded paper at her. She seized it in a quick movement and hid it under her kneesocks.


    The cooks left. It was time to eat.


    Persen kept trying to start a conversation with Remnya, but either she ignored him, or Ronner interrupted him with annoying comments that made Persen¡¯s face swell with anger. However, the big man kept his cool and laughed at himself.


    Magenta kept kicking Ronner under the table and glaring at him to shut up, but Ronner enjoyed it too much, and so did Remnya.


    Remnya smiled, seeing Ronner as the handsome knight who would protect her from the ugly orc with a creepy smile and his minions.


    Dinner was over, and Magenta¡¯s pale face was red like a tomato. Luckily for her, and despite Ronner¡¯s big mouth, Persen was smiling from ear to ear.


    ¡°This was great, Magenta. I enjoyed every moment,¡± the big man said.


    Taken from Royal Road, this narrative should be reported if found on Amazon.


    ¡°I¡¯m glad you did, Persen. I hope the childish comments of my dear man didn¡¯t bother you.¡± Magenta beamed at him.


    ¡°Not at all. He¡¯s a funny fella, isn¡¯t he?¡± Persen darted poisonous daggers at Ronner.


    Ron shrugged. ¡°I can¡¯t help it. Some of us are born handsome and funny, unlike others.¡± He glanced at Persen with a smirk.


    Persen grinned, gritting his teeth. ¡°I¡¯ll meet you at the courtyard, dear Magenta. Going for a walk after a delicious meal always helps my digestion.¡± He guffawed and left.


    The hall remained silent for long seconds.


    Remnya lowered her head, realizing she had gone too far with Magenta. She had never seen the lady so mad.


    ¡°What the hell is wrong with you, big idiot?¡± Magenta yelled at Ronner. ¡°How could you say his head looks like a red scrotum? Seriously?¡± She facepalmed.


    Remnya covered her mouth, trying to hold her laughter, but failed.


    ¡°I was just playing with him.¡± Ronner smiled, scratching his head.


    Magenta shook her head and then looked at Rem. ¡°And you, young lady.¡± She narrowed her eyes. ¡°We¡¯ll have a serious talk later. Now, go back to your room.¡± Magenta motioned for Maria to take her away.


    Remnya bobbed her head, slightly relieved by Magenta¡¯s reaction. She expected much worse. Remnya smiled at Ronner and bolted out of the hall, leaving Maria behind.


    *¡ã*¡ã*


    Remnya unfolded the paper Zeo had given her and widened her eyes as she read it. ¡®Come to the big garden and make sure no one follows you. Please, this is URGENT!¡¯.


    Her heart skipped a beat. Zeo wouldn¡¯t tell her such a thing without a good reason. Remnya did as he asked, and ensuring no one saw her, she rushed to the garden.


    Zeo was waiting for her as promised.


    ¡°What¡¯s the meaning of this, Zeo?¡± Remnya asked, raising the folded paper in her hand.


    Zeo hushed her with a hand gesture and then grabbed her arm, pulling her with him behind the trees and bushes that surrounded the garden.


    ¡°Listen, Rem. You need to leave this place right now!¡± Zeo whispered, panting as he scanned his surroundings.


    ¡°What are you talking about?¡±


    ¡°Magenta . . . ¡° He glanced left and right before speaking. ¡°She wants to sell you to Persen Doman!¡±


    A chill ran down her spine.


    ¡°You need to leave before it¡¯s too late! They will hurt you!¡± Zeo tightened his grasp on her wrist. His hands were sweaty and cold.


    ¡°That can¡¯t be . . . ¡° Remnya shook her head slowly as her heart kicked hard against her chest.


    ¡°Trust me! Mr. Marcus told me himself. They¡¯ll hurt you! You need to leave now!¡± Zeo released her arm and rushed to clear a path ahead of them by removing vines and thorny bushes with his bare hands.


    ¡°You¡¯re bleeding, Zeo.¡± Remnya stared at his blood-stained fingers. Why was he going that far?


    ¡°Please Rem, please!¡± Zeo seemed to run out of breath as he jumped from one place to another, removing every obstacle.


    ¡°Zeo!¡± Remnya shouted, snatching his arm to stop him.


    ¡°We can¡¯t waste any more time, Rem, you need to-¡°


    ¡°Stop it!¡± Remnya yelled, scowling at him. ¡°Have you gone crazy?¡±


    ¡°Rem! You¡¯re being sold to Persen!¡± Zeo¡¯s eyes dilated as he grabbed her wrist and desperately tried to drag Remnya with him. ¡°He will hurt you!¡±


    ¡°No!¡± Remnya shook his hand off her and stepped away from him. ¡°You¡¯re lying!¡± she screamed.


    ¡°I am not! These people are willing to do anything for money! They even killed Orena and Ellyn!¡± he shouted, narrowing his eyes at her.


    Remnya held her head between her hands. ¡°No, no, no!¡± Her breath hastened as a knot oppressed her chest. She had worked so damn hard to rebuild her life. She studied, learned manners, behaved, and even learned how to cook some food.


    Those people had accepted her despite being a horned witch, a freak.


    Her newfound hopes and dreams, everything would crumble.


    It couldn¡¯t be true. Zeo had gone insane for sure.


    ¡°I know it¡¯s hard to believe, but it¡¯s true!¡±


    ¡°They won¡¯t hurt me . . . ¡° Remnya laughed nervously. ¡°Mr. Ronner will protect me. I know that!¡±


    ¡°Ronner is a monster! He killed Ellyn!¡± Zeo tried to grab her hand, but she pulled away from him and glared.


    ¡°Liar!¡± Remnya roared, pushing Zeo away from her so hard he stumbled and fell to the ground. ¡°Mr. Ronner would never do that! That is a big lie! Marcus is so angry he made all this up!¡±


    ¡°Rem . . . ¡° Zeo mumbled as his eyes filled with tears, unable to believe her words.


    ¡°And you were so dumb to believe him! Marcus lied to you! He hates Mr. Ronner because he fired him!¡±


    ¡°He didn¡¯t lie! I saw it myself! Are you stupid, Remnya?¡± Zeo roared, fire in his wet eyes.


    Remnya froze for a moment, unable to believe the way her dear friend was behaving.


    ¡°Remnya, please.¡±


    ¡°Shut up, Zeo!¡± Her scream echoed throughout the garden. ¡°Shut up and leave me alone!¡± Remnya ran away from him.


    Zeo sprang from the ground and tried to run after her, but his foot tangled on the vines, causing him to fall flat on his face.


    Hurt still, he got up and scanned the garden for his friend.


    His heart sank when he saw Remnya running toward Ronner, who had just arrived at the garden looking for her. She hugged him and murmured something in his ear.


    Zeo froze. An avalanche of pain crushed his heart. He wanted to run to her, punch Ronner and save her. But if Ronner found out he knew about their plans, he wouldn¡¯t hesitate to get rid of him, and then no one would be able to help Remnya anymore.


    Tears burned his eyes as he saw Ronner taking his dear friend away from him. He dropped to the ground and buried his head in the grass. A raging stream flowed down his cheeks.


    He had failed.


    No . . .


    It¡¯s not over yet . . .


    Hell no! I won¡¯t give up yet!


    Zeo punched himself, opening a cut in his mouth, and bit his lower lip until it bled. His sobbing stopped, and he rushed to dial Adrian.


    ¡°She didn¡¯t believe me! We need to do something now!¡± Zeo screamed into the phone as he wiped his tears.


    ¡°Calm down, Zeo,¡± Marcus answered. His voice was too calm. ¡°I¡¯m gonna save her. It¡¯s not over yet. Be strong and be aware. We¡¯re gonna do this together.¡±


    Marcus¡¯ words eased the tempest in Zeo¡¯s heart. He took a deep breath and nodded to himself.


    ¡°Mr. Marcus . . . ¡° He stood up, trembling as he clenched his fists. ¡°Please, save my friend.¡±


    *¡ã*¡ã*


    Maria informed Magenta that Remnya had returned to her room. Relieved, the lady ordered her bodyguards to keep an eye on the Nephilim while she rushed to meet with Persen in the courtyard.


    Persen paced around the fountain, smoking his cigar. His bodyguards stood nearby. Magenta stopped for a moment to stare at him from afar. She took a deep breath and walked toward the obnoxious gentleman.


    ¡°Finally!¡± Persen exclaimed and blew a mouthful of smoke.


    ¡°My apologies, Persen. We were finishing some details.¡± She sat on the edge of the fountain, avoiding eye contact with him.


    ¡°I¡¯ve been patient enough. I want this done right now!¡± Persen raised his voice while his face inflated like a red toad.


    ¡°We¡¯re getting everything ready for you, Persen.¡± Magenta gritted her teeth, faking a smile.


    Persen walked up to her and shoved his face right in front of hers. ¡°Didn¡¯t you listen to me? I said, RIGHT NOW!¡± he roared, shooting droplets of saliva on her face.


    Magenta glared at him as she clenched her fists. It took all her willpower not to punch his face and kick his groin. ¡°As you wish.¡± She stood up, pushing him away, and strode toward the mansion.


    Doman scoffed and threw his cigar into the fountain. ¡°Stupid bitch,¡± he said, loud enough for Magenta to hear, but she ignored him.


    ¡°Watch your mouth when you talk about my lady,¡± Ronner said, walking up to him with a serious face.


    ¡°Ronner.¡± Persen smirked. ¡°Do you think I actually believe that bullshit?¡±


    Ronner scanned Persen from head to toe and leaned closer. ¡°No.¡± He laughed, slapping Persen¡¯s back. ¡°But it¡¯s cute when she thinks she¡¯s in charge.¡±


    Persen guffawed. ¡°Poor Magenta, she still thinks she holds any power here.¡± He lit another cigar and sneered. ¡°Women can¡¯t be in charge of anything. They¡¯re useless for these things!¡± Persen stretched his arms, beholding his surroundings. ¡°They¡¯re like pretty jewels we enjoy exhibiting as trophies, but in the end, they are just that, pretty disposable objects.¡±


    Ronner rolled his eyes and paced over to Viper and Skado, scanning the dark expression on their stone faces. Viper twisted his lips.


    ¡°Never underestimate your enemies, Persen.¡± Ronner smirked, glancing at Persen.


    Electric silence cut the air.


    An orange flash lit the sky.


    The ground shook as a loud explosion shattered the crystal of doors and windows.


    The massive shockwave hit them like a ton of bricks, deafening Persen, who dropped to the ground and covered his head.


    ¡°What the hell was that?¡± Persen groaned.


    ¡°Shit!¡± Ronner roared and darted toward the doors. ¡°You stay here!¡± he ordered Persen before disappearing into the mansion.


    ¡°Go with him!¡± Persen yelled at his bodyguards, and they rushed to follow Ronner. ¡°Shit!¡± Persen¡¯s forehead shone with sweat as he slowly stood up. ¡°Nothing will ruin my special night with my Nephilim.¡±


    A cold piece of steel caressed Persen¡¯s cheek.


    ¡°Don¡¯t move, nor scream.¡±


    Persen caught a glimpse from the corner of his eye and recognized Marcus standing behind him. He had his left hand wrapped around his neck and a revolver pressed against his temple.


    Persen gulped. ¡°What are you doing, Marcus?¡± he asked, smiling nervously. ¡°Drop that gun.¡±


    ¡°This is over, scumbag. You won¡¯t lay a finger on Remnya . . . EVER!¡±


    *¡ã*¡ã*

 17: Marcus

    Two Days Ago


    The midnight was soaked in urban silence. Only distant car alarms filled the background noise of that empty street. Marcus stood by his car, enjoying his cigarette as he contemplated the elegant house in front of him. He knew it well; the mother of his child lived there with her husband.


    Marcus finished his cigarette and ensured no eyes followed him before unlocking the front gates. Keeping those keys had been a wise decision. Little did people know how easy it was to destroy their sophisticated security systems. He deactivated the alarm and forced the lock off the doors.


    Everyone slept in the house. Marcus figured out where his daughter¡¯s room would be. He tiptoed upstairs and reached the corridor, where a dim light peeked from behind a door. Peeping through a narrow opening, he saw his daughter sitting on her bed reading a book.


    ¡°Baby, it¡¯s me,¡± he whispered behind the door. ¡°Please, don¡¯t scream.¡±


    Karina flinched, throwing the book away while Marcus sneaked into her room and gestured at her to keep her voice down.


    ¡°Dad?¡± Karina widened her eyes. ¡°What are you doing here?¡±


    ¡°Hi, baby. I told you I¡¯d surprise you one of these days, remember?¡± He smiled. ¡°Well, this is the day. We¡¯re going on that trip as promised!¡±


    ¡°What?¡± She scanned his face in search of lies. ¡°Are you serious, dad?¡±


    ¡°You tell me.¡± He sat next to her, displaying three plane tickets in his hand. ¡°We will go to the Kingdom of Nebran. What do you think?¡±


    ¡°Wow!¡± She grabbed the tickets, making sure they were real. Her eyes shone. ¡°But dad, what did mom say about this? She won¡¯t like it at all!¡±


    ¡°Your mom agreed to this. It will be like the old times, you, mom, and me.¡± He beamed at her.


    ¡°No way!¡± Karina giggled. ¡°How did you convince her? And how did you convince Mr. Peige?¡±


    Marcus twisted his lips at the mention of his daughter¡¯s stepfather.


    ¡°I got my ways.¡± Marcus caressed her face and stared deep into her obsidian eyes. ¡°Now, pack your clothes and get ready. We¡¯re leaving in the morning.¡±


    ¡°Alright, dad.¡± She nodded and hopped out of her bed, darting toward her closet.


    Marcus¡¯ smile faded as he closed the door behind him and headed to the room at the end of the dark corridor.


    He pushed the door slowly and peeked inside. His daughter¡¯s mother was sleeping next to a man who snored like a pig. Marcus walked over to her, and in a quick move, covered her mouth.


    ¡°Don¡¯t scream,¡± he whispered in her ear. ¡°And listen to me carefully.¡±


    The woman opened her sleepy eyes, trying to comprehend the situation. When she recognized Marcus, her blue pupils dilated. She twisted her body, trying to break free from his grasp. Marcus wrapped his arms around her and dragged her out of the bed while he muffled her screams.


    ¡°Listen, Cecilia. Karina and you are in great danger. We need to leave right now!¡±


    She punched him and buried her fingernails into his hands.


    ¡°Quiet!¡± His voice was a muffled roar. He tightened his grip on her. ¡°Magenta is behind all this. You were always right about her, okay? But listen to me now! I only did those awful things to protect you. I was forced to do her dirty job. Otherwise, her men would kill you both! You need to understand!¡±


    She stopped scratching his face and mumbled something. He took his hand off her mouth.


    ¡°All the pain you¡¯ve caused wasn¡¯t enough? Now you want to ruin our lives too?¡± Cecilia glared at him from the corner of her eyes. They almost glowed in the darkness.


    ¡°I deserve all your hatred. I¡¯ve caused you a lot of pain, but everything I did was to protect our daughter and you. Magenta is bad, but his men are far worse, they¡¯re monsters! I could never refuse their orders. It was either kill that man or have you both killed!¡±


    Her eyes filled with tears as he released her body. She covered her face with both hands and shook her head. ¡°You are a monster too, Marcus, and you¡¯ve ruined our lives!¡± she shrieked.


    ¡°Hate me all you want, I don¡¯t care! The important thing now is taking our daughter to safety! Once they find out I¡¯ve betrayed them, they won¡¯t hesitate to come after you!¡±


    Cecilia dropped to the floor and sobbed, burying her head between her knees. ¡°My baby does not deserve this! She deserves to be happy!¡±


    ¡°She will be happy! I¡¯ll do everything I can to see her smile, but . . . ¡° He leaned his hand on her shoulder. ¡°We need to go now.¡±


    She slapped his hand away from her. ¡°You go!¡± she yelled. ¡°We¡¯re staying here!¡±


    ¡°Can¡¯t you understand your lives are in danger?¡± He raised his voice.


    ¡°James will protect us!¡± she roared, glaring at him. ¡°Unlike you, he¡¯s a good man and will find a way to do it! We¡¯ll call the police, ask for protection, anything!¡± Her voice filled with hatred. ¡°You can die for all I care! Leave us alone for once and for all, we don¡¯t need you! You¡¯re just the pet of a megalomaniac bitch!¡± Cecilia sprang from the floor toward her husband.


    Marcus caught her and covered her mouth before she could reach him.


    She grabbed a lamp from her nightstand and hit Marcus, but unfazed by it, he seized her hands, twisted her arms behind her back, and snatched something from underneath his suit.


    He injected a syringe into Cecilia¡¯s neck, silencing her screams in one second.


    ¡°I¡¯m sorry, I¡¯m sorry . . . ¡° he whispered in her ear as she closed her eyes and fell asleep in his arms.


    Marcus eased her onto the floor and checked on James. The old man still snored in a profound sleep. Marcus then ran toward Karina¡¯s room to make sure she didn¡¯t hear the screams. Fortunately, her room was far from them.


    He returned and stared at Cecilia¡¯s sleeping face. Self-loathing burned his insides, but he had no other choice. Marcus picked her up and carried her to his car. He placed her in the backseat and locked the doors.


    Marcus returned for Karina, who was ready and wondering where mom was. Marcus showed her she was sleeping in the backseat, but Karina started asking questions.


    ¡°Mom was so tired she fell asleep again.¡± Marcus laughed nervously. ¡°She worked really hard yesterday. We should let her rest, don¡¯t you think?¡±


    Karina tilted her head and poked her mom¡¯s nose. ¡°Are you sure she¡¯s sleeping?¡±


    ¡°Yeah!¡± Marcus grabbed Karina¡¯s hand softly. ¡°Don¡¯t do that, baby. We will wake her up when we arrive at the airport. She will be surprised!¡±


    ¡°Okay . . . fine,¡± Karina mumbled as she glanced at her mom one last time.


    Marcus adjusted her seatbelt, and finally, they drove away.


    *¡ã*¡ã*


    Cecilia woke up before arriving at the airport. She scanned her surroundings and quickly understood the situation. Her heart and eyes burned; she wanted to scream but remained silent for Karina¡¯s sake.


    As they parked at the airport, she pretended to sleep while Marcus unpacked their luggage and accompanied Karina to do their check-in.


    She stepped out of the car and took a deep breath. Her head spun while needles stung her brain. Stopping his madness wouldn¡¯t be hard. All she had to do was call the police or James. But for some incompressible reason, she couldn¡¯t bring herself to do it. Cecilia leaned on the car and waited with her eyes lost in the planes landing and taking off in the distance.


    Marcus returned, his face displaying signs of defeat. His eyes avoided hers as his breath shortened. She straightened her back and searched for his gaze.


    ¡°Is James okay?¡± she asked in a tired, soothing voice.


    Marcus bobbed his head as he lit a cigarette.


    Support creative writers by reading their stories on Royal Road, not stolen versions.


    ¡°That crap is bad for your health.¡± Cecilia scowled.


    He said nothing and kept blowing smoke like a chimney.


    ¡°Kingdom of Nebran, uh?¡± Cecilia chuckled ironically as she folded her arms.


    Marcus put out his cigarette on his palm and faced her. His eyes were two black holes under the poor light of the parking lot. He lowered his head and dropped to his knees in front of her. He bent over and hit his head against the asphalt.


    ¡°Forgive me, Cecilia. Forgive me for all the pain I¡¯ve caused you.¡± Tears began soaking the ground under his face.


    Cecilia widened her eyes. She couldn¡¯t believe what she was witnessing.


    ¡°Marcus?¡± she stuttered, almost losing her voice.


    ¡°Everything I did was to protect you. It¡¯s my fault, yes! I¡¯m a fucking monster too, yes! But, I love our girl and will give my life for her if necessary. You gotta believe me!¡± Marcus shouted as his voice cracked. He lifted her gaze at her, tears rolling down his cheeks.


    She had never seen him crying.


    ¡°Marcus, don¡¯t do this . . . ¡° Cecilia shook her head as tears formed in her eyes. She covered her face and stepped backward. ¡°Don¡¯t do this.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m sorry, Cecilia. . . for everything.¡± Marcus lowered his head as his whole body trembled.


    She crouched and placed her hand below his chin, lifting his face to stare into his eyes.


    ¡°Is it the pain that you¡¯ve kept bottled inside so big?¡± she asked, blinking to clear her blurred vision.


    He bobbed his head.


    ¡°I understand.¡± Cecilia wiped his tears with her soft fingers. ¡°Get up. I don¡¯t need you to ask me for forgiveness. Just tell me what I need to do.¡±


    She grabbed his hands and helped him to stand up.


    ¡°Leave now.¡± Marcus¡¯ voice recovered its strength. ¡°This plane will take you to Nebran. I deposited all my money into your bank account.¡± Marcus glanced at the airport¡¯s crystal doors. ¡°There¡¯s a man called Adrian waiting for you. He¡¯ll tell you everything you need to know.¡±


    ¡°A man? What about you? Aren¡¯t you coming too?¡± Cecilia¡¯s heart hastened.


    Marcus shook his head. ¡°I¡¯m staying here. They want me, and I won¡¯t get you two involved anymore.¡±


    ¡°Are you crazy?¡± she yelled. ¡°How can we trust some stranger over you to protect us?¡±


    ¡°I considered this many times, over and over, and concluded, this is the best solution.¡± Marcus glanced at Adrian, who was laughing with Karina inside. ¡°Adrian is a good man, he has honor and a good heart. I couldn¡¯t trust anyone else with this.¡±


    ¡°Still. . .¡± She lowered her head to hide her tears. ¡°They will kill you, Marcus.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m not that easy to kill.¡± He caressed her face and stared into her glistening eyes. ¡°I want to do the right thing for once. I¡¯ll bring Magenta and his empire down. But to do so, you two need to be safe.¡±


    Cecilia sobbed, covering her face. Marcus pulled her toward him and hugged her tightly. She wrapped her arms around him and muffled her cries in his chest.


    They said goodbye.


    Marcus lit his last cigarette as he observed Karina by the airport¡¯s doors. She was laughing at Adrian¡¯s jokes. Marcus¡¯ heart didn¡¯t want to beat anymore, thinking about how sad her baby would be when she found out he was not coming with them. He leaned on a wall, facing the bricks. His eyes burned as doubts arose in his mind. Was he doing the right?


    Yes, this is the right thing to do . . .


    I am the only one who can stop them . . .


    It could have been my girl instead of Remnya . . .


    His sobbing stopped as he took a deep breath of fresh air. He turned his gaze toward his girl again and held it there for painful minutes.


    It was time for them to leave.


    Adrian glanced at Marcus. They kept eye contact for a moment where the time stopped, and then both bobbed their heads. Adrian¡¯s eyes displayed forgiveness, and that eased the turmoil in Marcus¡¯s heart.


    Marcus finally saw how Adrian accompanied his family toward the departure hall. He stared at his girl for the last time until she faded into the airport.


    His heart shattered.


    Every bit of it stung deep in his chest like knives. He tried but couldn¡¯t hold back the raging stream falling from his darkened eyes.


    ¡°Goodbye, my baby girl . . . Goodbye.¡±


    *¡ã*¡ã*


    The Mansion


    Acute silence cut through the thin air of the courtyard where those two stood still. Marcus¡¯ heart was calm, he had done the right thing, and his daughter was safe. They had abandoned the city with Adrian as promised.


    Despite transferring all his money to Cecilia, he was richer than ever that night. Owner of his fate.


    A drop of sweat ran down Persen¡¯s forehead. ¡°So, that¡¯s what this is about, uh?¡± Persen smiled lightly. ¡°What do you want from me? Tell me.¡±


    ¡°You will allow Remnya to leave the mansion and reach Karx.¡± He pushed the gun deeper into his temple.


    ¡°And, why would I do that?¡±


    ¡°Because if you don¡¯t . . . ¡° A click resounded on Persen¡¯s brain when Marcus cocked his gun. ¡°I¡¯ll blow your fucking brains out of your head.¡±


    ¡°Fair enough.¡± Persen giggled.


    A breeze whistled throughout the courtyard.


    ¡°Drop that weapon, Marcus,¡± Magenta murmured, her voice as thin as paper. She looked like a ghost in the middle of the garden.


    ¡°Release the girl, Magenta. Now!¡± Marcus ordered.


    ¡°You can¡¯t do this . . . Your daughter¡ª¡±


    ¡°Shut up!¡± he roared. ¡°My girl and her mother are safe. I¡¯m not afraid anymore and will do the right thing.¡± Marcus seized Persen¡¯s throat, choking him. ¡°Do as I say!¡±


    ¡°They will kill you, Marcus. Stop it, please!¡± Slowly, Magenta walked towards him, with her emerald eyes fixed on the darkness of his gaze. She shook her head with a defeated look on her face.


    ¡°She¡¯s right you know,¡± Ronner added as he strode through the crystal gates of the mansion. ¡°Let him go and you may live, and so can your daughter and Cecilia.¡±


    ¡°Fuck you, Ronner! You¡¯re the last person I¡¯d trust.¡± Marcus spat on the ground with contempt.


    ¡°I¡¯m honest!¡± he exclaimed, raising his hands with a big smile. ¡°If you let him go, we¡¯ll just forget this happened. Right, Persen?¡±


    ¡°Yes, of course!¡± Persen nodded eagerly.


    ¡°We¡¯ll never touch your family. You have my word and Persen¡¯s.¡± Ronner smirked.


    Marcus laughed and gritted his teeth. ¡°Ronner . . . You¡¯re the most disgusting being I¡¯ve ever known. You¡¯ve manipulated Magenta, Ramos, and even Persen. You set up everything for this.¡± Magenta widened her eyes. ¡°You even kidnapped Ellyn to use her against Magenta when you get bored with her, am I right?¡±


    ¡°What¡¯s he talking about, Ronner?¡± Magenta asked, narrowing her eyes. "Wasn''t she dead?"


    ¡°Bullshit, nothing else.¡± Ronner shrugged. ¡°Although I do have Ellyn, yes, that¡¯s true. But I wasn¡¯t planning to use her against Magenta.¡± He sighed as a twisted smile drew across his face. ¡°I just thought it¡¯d be a waste to kill her. She¡¯s such a fun toy for my men, you know?¡±


    ¡°I can¡¯t believe you . . . ¡° Magenta shook her head, scowling at Ronner.


    ¡°Anyhow!¡± Ronner took one step forward. ¡°I¡¯ll give you ten seconds to release Persen. Otherwise, your daughter¡¯s head will adorn my shelves.¡±


    Marcus shot a glare at him. His eyes were red and dilated while his hand trembled, increasing the pressure of the gun on Persen¡¯s head.


    ¡°After Persen, you¡¯ll be next, fucking scum!¡± Marcus¡¯ voice was a rumbling thunder.


    Ronner giggled and brushed his hair backward. ¡°You know what?¡± He smirked, taking another step forward. ¡°Kill him. I don¡¯t care.¡±


    ¡°WHAT?¡± Persen shouted, his eyes almost popping out of his head.


    The time froze.


    Marcus lifted his eyes at Magenta. Tears rolled down her pale cheeks as her lips quivered, trying to say something, but words never came out. His heart hesitated. She almost resembled the young girl he had met thirteen years ago.


    He looked at Ronner. His cold blue gaze and constant grin were unfazed by the situation. Perhaps the number of deaths he had witnessed in Karx had numbed any feeling of remorse and empathy in that beast.


    Finally, he observed Persen. The fat man was soaked in sweat, and his heart throbbed against the hand gripping his short neck. He panted and murmured unintelligible words. He was a monster, but at that moment, he seemed so pathetic and fragile.


    Magenta bolted towards Marcus, and he didn¡¯t understand why. He noticed how her pupils dilated as she moved in slow motion in his direction. What was she trying to do? Had she gone crazy?


    An electric discharge shook his whole body.


    Burning pain traveled through his back.


    Marcus pulled the trigger.


    But his hand didn¡¯t respond.


    His hand wasn¡¯t even his anymore.


    Skado, the younger, had buried a long knife in his back, perforating his lungs and heart in a soft swift he never saw coming.


    Viper, the older, had landed a clean cut on his wrist, severing his right hand from his forearm with a short sword.


    Marcus tried choking Persen with his remaining hand, but his strength had left his body.


    Persen broke free, and Marcus fell to his knees. His black suit turned dark red while a crimson pond formed beneath him.


    ¡°I told you,¡± Ronner said in a voice that reminded him of death. He stepped next to Marcus and looked down his nose at him.


    His vision became blurry, but he glimpsed Magenta falling to her knees in front of him. His blood dying her luxurious white dress. Her warm arms caught him when he dropped to his side and then wrapped around his cold body. Marcus could barely breathe, yet he could smell her sweet perfume and hear her sobbing in his ear.


    ¡°Help him! Call the doctors!¡± Magenta shrieked between sobs.


    Ronner sighed. ¡°Fine, fine!¡± He bolted away.


    Two black trails rolled down Magenta¡¯s cheeks as she caressed Marcus¡¯ pale face with trembling hands. He rested his head on her chest and reached out for her hand.


    ¡°It¡¯s not too late for you, Maggie . . . You can still do the right thing,¡± Marcus whispered.


    She squeezed his hand and muffled her sobs in his shoulder. ¡°Why Marcus? Why did you do this?¡± She sniffled.


    ¡°I¡¯ve hurt too many people . . . I¡¯ve been a coward all my life.¡±


    ¡°No . . . You were never a coward.¡± Magenta¡¯s body trembled as she tried to speak. ¡°You were everything to me.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m sorry,¡± he mumbled as a weak smile drew across his face. He lifted his dilated obsidian eyes to meet her glistening emeralds. ¡°You were right. I should¡¯ve stayed with you.¡± Marcus coughed droplets of blood but gathered enough strength to continue. ¡°Perhaps, that way, I could¡¯ve saved you.¡±


    ¡°I know why you left.¡± Magenta leaned her forehead on Marcus¡¯ and stared deep into his eyes. Her tears mixed with his. ¡°I already forgave you for it.¡±


    She remembered.


    Thirteen years ago.


    When they were just two young dreamers.


    When she wasn¡¯t Lady Magenta, but an innocent teen who came to the city chasing her dreams.


    When she worked as a maid in the mansion of the leader of The Hunters.


    When Marcus was just a stubborn delivery boy who asked her out for the first time.


    They dated, they laughed, they loved each other.


    She even remembered a long-lost memory she had buried in the deepest corner of her heart. The time she lost her baby.


    The memories crushed Magenta like an avalanche of pain. She tightened her arms around his cold body.


    ¡°I¡¯m sorry . . . ¡° she murmured over and over in his ear. ¡°Don¡¯t leave me again, please . . . I need you . . .¡±


    ¡°I never stopped loving you . . . ¡° Marcus mumbled with his last bit of strength.


    Magenta tried to say something, but her voice was muffled by tears. Instead, she caressed his nose with hers and kissed his lips softly.


    ¡°I . . . ¡° she started.


    His heart stopped.


    Silence.


    Her mind became blank.


    Magenta felt trapped in a void of time, and her heart wasn¡¯t hers anymore.


    She sat still with him for what seemed an endless moment.


    Ronner, who had just returned along with the doctors, stared at her from afar. No one of the doctors dared to get close. They were too late.


    Persen was lying on a couch with Viper and Skado handing him drinks. He scoffed and tried to say something.


    ¡°Shut the fuck up!¡± Ronner roared.


    The big man flinched, swallowing his words.


    Magenta eased Marcus¡¯ body on the ground, rubbed her blood-stained hands, and stood up. She stared at him for long minutes until the blood on her body and tears in her eyes dried up.


    She glanced at Skado with lifeless eyes, the one who had ended Marcus¡¯ life. She reached out for her thighs and drew something from under her dress.


    A gun.


    Magenta pointed it at Skado¡¯s head and pulled the trigger.


    *¡ã*¡ã*

 18: Black Tears

    Magenta


    Silence lingered in the mansion¡¯s corridors like a gelid mist, yet the echoes of that grievous night invaded Magenta¡¯s mind. She rested on her bed, only wearing her underwear. Her face was buried in her pillow, and her blood-stained dress lay torn on the floor. She wished everything was just a horrible nightmare. A nightmare from which she would wake up soon.


    However, the reek of blood in her hands was too real, and his perfume pervaded her nose and brain.


    . . .


    Someone knocked on the door several times.


    But deep silence was her only answer.


    The minutes passed.


    Magenta overheard Ronner¡¯s voice on the other side as he grabbed his keys to unlock the door. She didn¡¯t react. She couldn¡¯t care less about his presence.


    Slowly, the door opened.


    Ronner sighed at the sight of her pitiful state and paced over to the bed. He sat next to her.


    ¡°Look,¡± Ronner started, taking a deep breath. ¡°This was never my intention. I was winning time for them to stop him, but I never imagined those idiots would do such a thing.¡±


    Magenta said nothing and remained still like a corpse.


    ¡°I was honest when I said I would spare him if he released Persen, but he would have never listened to me, you know that.¡± He caressed her back. ¡°Persen is furious because you tried to kill his man.¡±


    ¡°Wish I killed the three of them,¡± Magenta mumbled.


    ¡°Well, had he been a normal human, he¡¯d be dead by now. I didn¡¯t know you had such a good aim.¡±


    ¡°Why did you stop me?¡± She buried her nails into her thighs.


    ¡°Because you were out of control, risking your own life. If you go against Persen, you go against The Hunters. Your whole empire would¡¯ve been destroyed.¡± He massaged her shoulders.


    ¡°All this because of that Nephilim . . . ¡° Magenta stared over her shoulder at him. Two dark makeup circles surrounded her eyes, along with multiple black trails staining her cheeks. ¡°Wish you never found her.¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t blame the little girl.¡± He leaned on her back, wrapping his arms around her. ¡°We need to move on. Remember our main mission.¡±


    ¡°Stay away from me.¡± She pushed him away, her empty eyes shooting a glare. ¡°I want to be alone.¡±


    ¡°Alright.¡± Ronner stood up and started toward the door. ¡°By the way, should we let his family know?¡±


    ¡°No . . . His child doesn¡¯t need to bear with that pain at such a young age. It¡¯s better this way, just the way he wanted it.¡± She bit her lower lip and scowled at Ronner. ¡°Now, go!¡±


    Ronner rolled his eyes and closed the door behind him.


    Magenta remained still for long minutes, contemplating the silence of her mind. However, her pride pushed her to sit up and lift her gaze. The Lady couldn¡¯t allow herself to become such a pathetic creature. Not yet.


    She stood and locked the door, making sure Ronner was gone, and then grabbed her cell phone from her nightstand. Magenta still remembered his number and quickly dialed it with trembling fingers.


    . . .


    As soon as he picked up, The Lady knew it was the right thing to do.


    ¡°Who is it? I don¡¯t recognize your number,¡± the nurse¡¯s boyfriend questioned nervously.


    ¡°I¡¯ll be short and concise, so listen carefully,¡± Magenta said, clenching her fists. ¡°Lacacia forest. You¡¯ll find a small cabin at the top of a hill. I¡¯ll send you the location and the code numbers to unlock the doors.¡±


    Adrian made a pause as if trying to process her words. ¡°Is this Magenta?¡± He swallowed. ¡°Why are you doing this?¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t ask stupid questions and listen.¡± She scoffed. ¡°I¡¯ll get rid of the men guarding the cabin, so hurry up and get your girlfriend outta there before 4 a.m. Otherwise, you¡¯re a dead man.¡±


    ¡°I-Uh . . . ¡° he stammered. ¡°Understood.¡±


    ¡°One last thing.¡± Magenta leaned her ear on the door to ensure Ronner wasn¡¯t around and returned to her phone. ¡°If you manage to escape, there¡¯s only one place for you to go.¡±


    ¡°Is this . . . the place I think?¡±


    ¡°Yes.¡± Magenta gritted her teeth, feeling fury and sorrow burning her insides while tears trailed down her cheeks. ¡°I swear on Marcus that . . . I will finish what he started.¡±


    *¡ã*¡ã*


    Remnya


    Remnya stayed in her room for the rest of the night, clueless about the events unfolding outside. She had heard a big explosion, but Gorth assured her everything was under control and guarded her door until she fell asleep.


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    In the morning, Remnya headed to the dining hall for breakfast. A gelid silence lingered in the mansion. Speaking to Maria, she found out Magenta had left early along with Ronner. The maid seemed distracted, her eyes swollen, and her smile faker than usual. But faithful to her personality, she said everything was alright.


    Remnya thought about meeting Zeo, but she was still mad at him. Nothing had happened last night; he had lied to her. But what troubled her the most was not knowing why. Zeo had never done anything like that before.


    Instead of confronting him, she preferred to wait until her anger faded.


    Magenta returned in the afternoon. Remnya was sitting on the branch of a Blackwood tree in the garden, a book lying on her lap. She noticed the lady strutting toward her.


    ¡°Get ready, we¡¯re going out,¡± Magenta said, standing beneath her. The lady was wearing all black from dress to heels, a rare color for someone like her.


    Remnya widened her eyes. Magenta had never come personally to tell her such things. ¡°Where are we going?¡± Remnya asked, spotting eye bags under her sunglasses.


    ¡°Shopping in the city. Pick some nice clothes. I¡¯ll come for you in twenty minutes.¡± Magenta¡¯s voice was thin and lifeless. She regarded her with a weak smile and then rushed to return inside.


    Her strange behavior triggered a lot of questions, but Remnya brushed them off. Going out with Magenta was a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. She darted to her room and did as the lady said, picking the best clothes she could find.


    Magenta came for her as promised. She walked into her room without saying a single word. Remnya observed her with confused eyes. The lady paced over by her bed, brushing the sheets with her fingers, and peeped through the window. Magenta closed the curtains and turned the lights off before facing Remnya with a fragile demeanor.


    ¡°Anything wrong, Magenta?¡± Remnya asked.


    ¡°No, my dear.¡± The lady reached out for her hand and smiled. ¡°Let¡¯s go?¡±


    Remnya grabbed her hand. It was tense, and her fingers were as cold as her rings.


    They walked to the entrance hall. Magenta gestured at Maria, who was waiting for them by the door. The maid nodded and bolted away with a pale face. Remnya blinked. Were they playing a game where she was the only one unaware of the rules?


    A limousine stopped in front of them. A smile drew across Remnya¡¯s face when she thought the driver was Marcus, but it quickly faded when she saw Gorth instead. As they got in the car, Magenta whispered something in his ear, and finally, they drove away.


    The farther the mansion disappeared behind them, the more nervous Magenta looked. She was sweating and taking deep breaths. The car accelerated through the narrow streets of the neighborhood until it reached the crowded part of the city. Magenta closed her eyes and leaned on her window. Remnya glanced at her, hardly recognizing her without that imposing aura she admired so much.


    A loud whistle resounded in Remnya¡¯s ears.


    The driver¡¯s windows blew up into a shower of sharp crystals.


    Magenta screamed when a bath of blood splattered across the interior of the car.


    Remnya witnessed how Gorth fell onto the passenger seat with a smoking hole in his head. Her whole body froze as she saw her arms and dress covered in red.


    Quickly, Magenta took off her seatbelt and stretched her body, trying to reach for the steering wheel. She got ahold of it but couldn¡¯t reach the brakes in time.


    A truck flashed before their eyes.


    Remnya stretched her arms, trying to grab Magenta¡¯s body, and closed her eyes, waiting for the impact.


    The windshield exploded.


    Their car crashed into a truck parked on the side of the avenue. The impact shot glass needles toward them like bullets.


    A loud silence whistled in Remnya¡¯s ears as everything came to a halt, followed by the beats of her heart.


    She opened her eyes. The front of the car was buried under tangled metal, but the seatbelt had held her tightly in her seat, along with the airbags. However, Magenta lay unconscious in her arms. Remnya trembled, refusing to believe her eyes. She didn¡¯t understand how, but she had caught Magenta, avoiding her body from being catapulted against the windshield.


    Remnya pushed the door open with all her strength, bending the steel surrounding her with ease. Even though glass debris had hit her face, none of it hurt her skin. Remnya staggered out of the car and took a moment to breathe. She returned for Magenta and helped her to lie in the backseat. Relief eased her mind when she realized the lady was alive though unconscious. Remnya ran to the driver¡¯s seat, and the sight horrified her.


    Gorth¡¯s body was barely recognizable under the twisted, sharp metal.


    She crouched and held her head in her hands. ¡°No, no, no,¡± she murmured.


    People began surrounding the scene, and a familiar voice was heard in the distance.


    ¡°Out of the way, idiots!¡± Ronner roared, pushing people out of his way. A policeman tried to stop him, but he smashed his head against the sidewalk. He ran to Remnya and hugged her.


    ¡°It¡¯s okay, my girl. Everything will be fine.¡±


    ¡°Ronner! Please help them!¡± she shrieked, gripping him.


    ¡°The ambulance is on its way. Don¡¯t worry.¡± Ronner checked on Magenta and then pulled Remnya away with him. He took her to his parked car a few meters away from the scene. ¡°You need to calm down, please. Are you hurt?¡±


    ¡°Nothing happened to me.¡± Remnya covered her face. Besides the glass debris in her hair and blood staining her dress, she was unharmed.


    ¡°Hey, it¡¯s okay. I¡¯m here. I¡¯ll save them.¡± Ronner squeezed her body. ¡°Now, please. Get in my car and wait there. I need to talk to the doctors.¡±


    Remnya bobbed her head and curled up in the backseat. Her heart kicked against her ribs as she panted and covered her ears. The wail of sirens was unbearable.


    The minutes felt like hours until Ronner returned.


    ¡°They took her,¡± Ronner said, opening the backdoor. ¡°The doctors say she will be alright. I don¡¯t know how you did it, but you saved her life, Remnya.¡±


    ¡°What?¡± Remnya uncovered her ears, widening her eyes.


    ¡°It seems like you stopped Magenta when she got launched from her seat. I saw the marks of fingers on her arms and torso.¡±


    ¡°No way . . . ¡° Remnya mumbled, staring at her hands.


    ¡°Yeah. If you hadn¡¯t done that, she wouldn¡¯t be alive now.¡± Ronner smiled, placing his hands on her shoulders.


    Remnya took a deep breath and locked her eyes on him. ¡°What about Gorth?¡±


    He ruffled her hair and hugged her tightly. ¡°I¡¯m sorry, Rem.¡±


    Before tears could form in her eyes, Remnya felt a powerful impact on her head. Her whole body weakened.


    Her mind became blank, and her eyes closed as she dropped into the backseat, unconscious.


    ¡°I¡¯m sorry, my girl.¡± Ronner caressed her face, stepped out of the car, and locked the doors.


    Viper walked among the crowd, staring at Ronner with lifeless eyes. He stopped in front of him.


    Ronner handed him the keys to his car. ¡°All yours.¡±


    ¡°What will happen to your woman now?¡± Viper asked in a monotonous voice.


    ¡°I¡¯ll take care of Magenta.¡± Ronner glanced at the ambulance and sighed. ¡°Can¡¯t believe she tried to take our girl away.¡±


    ¡°Is it because of the butler?¡±


    ¡°Yeah . . . but he had to go. Sorry for blaming it all on you two, though.¡± Ronner chuckled as he slapped Viper¡¯s shoulder. ¡°Magenta would¡¯ve thrown a tantrum if she found out I ordered his death.¡±


    Viper bobbed his head with a stone face. ¡°I¡¯ll take my leave now.¡±


    ¡°Take care of my girl.¡± He smirked. ¡°She¡¯s still a soft flower.¡±


    ¡°Understood.¡± Viper opened the car door.


    ¡°Oh, by the way.¡± Ronner winked at him. ¡°Nice shot! You blew out his fucking brains.¡±


    Viper returned a stare that could freeze a soul. He nodded and drove away with Remnya.


    *¡ã*¡ã*

 19: Crimson Roses

    Remnya


    Everything was darkness. Remnya could only hear murmurs echoing in the distance. She felt like floating in a void for what seemed hours or days. Time made no sense anymore.


    A flash awakened her senses again, and she recognized her body lying on a bed. The soft smell of citrus filling her nose assured her she was in her room. She lifted her heavy eyelids and squinted at the blurred figures surrounding her. It took her a while to make sense of them. No doubt, it was her room, but it looked different. Half of it was in the shadows, except for one white light blinding her.


    Nothing hurt, but her head spun like a wheel. When Remnya tried to sit up, her body felt heavy like concrete, and she fell back on the bed. She massaged her head and slowly remembered the recent events. How she wished she didn¡¯t. Remnya stared at herself, realizing she wasn¡¯t wearing her blood-stained dress anymore. Instead, she was wearing the white dress Ronner had given her. Why?


    ¡°I¡¯m glad you woke up.¡±


    Remnya sat up suddenly, the whole room turning around her. She scanned the shadows, squinting over a corner until she discovered the source of that creepy voice.


    Persen Doman. He was sitting on a couch next to her desk.


    Her eyes widened like full moons. ¡°What are you doing in my room?¡± she stammered.


    He replied with a giggle.


    Remnya sprang out of her bed, stumbling as her feet touched the cold floor. Her heart raced as she staggered to the door.


    It was locked.


    ¡°Are you afraid of me?¡± Persen asked.


    Her sweaty hands slipped on the doorknob. Remnya turned to him with a glare. ¡°Get out of here!¡±


    Persen stood up. His belly bounced as he strutted in her direction. She realized he wasn¡¯t wearing his usual suit but a casual shirt and short pants.


    ¡°I just want us to get along, my beautiful Nephilim.¡± His grin grew wider with each step.


    ¡°Where¡¯s Magenta? And Mr. Ronner?¡± Remnya leaned against the door, locking her eyes on his unpredictable moves.


    ¡°Magenta is fine, don¡¯t worry. I made sure to pay for her treatment. As for Ronner, he is taking care of her.¡± Persen sat on her bed and stroked the sheets. ¡°It¡¯s just you and me here.¡±


    The room seemed to shrink around her.


    Not losing sight of him, Remnya darted to her windows. However, they were locked too, and the keys were nowhere to be found. ¡°What is the meaning of this? What do you want?¡± Remnya scowled at him, reaching out for her drawers. She swept the interior, looking for the knife Marcus had given her.


    ¡°I just want us to get along.¡± Persen caressed his chin and regarded her with a smirk. ¡°You look even cuter when you¡¯re scared.¡±


    ¡°Shut up!¡± she yelled. ¡°Get outta my room now, stupid old man!¡± Her heart kicked when she realized her drawers had been emptied. Remnya didn¡¯t understand the situation but knew she had to get out of there.


    ¡°So mean.¡± Persen pouted and then smiled again. ¡°Alright. I will tell you what¡¯s going on.¡±


    Cold sweat rolled down Remnya¡¯s back.


    ¡°You belong to me now, my precious Nephilim.¡± He stood up, blocking her way to the door. ¡°And as such, you will do as I say.¡±


    ¡°Screw you!¡± Remnya shouted as she seized a table lamp from her desk and threw it at him. Persen covered his face as the lamp shattered on his arms, shooting sharp crystals into his skin.


    ¡°Enough!¡± Persen roared, charging at her.


    But Remnya smashed her notebook against his face. The hit stunned him, giving her enough time to reach the door. She used all her strength to twist the doorknob, cracking it in half. The door opened, and she bolted out of the room.


    ¡°Dammit!¡± Persen screamed. ¡°The little flower still has that much strength? Didn¡¯t the drugs have any effect on her?¡±


    A heavy hand seized her arm. She glanced over her shoulder and recognized Skado''s hollow eyes.


    Her blood froze.


    Remnya shook and pulled his arm away from him, but his grip was unbreakable. Skado yanked her toward him and twisted her arms behind her back. She kicked him several times with her heels, but the man was unfazed by it. Remnya headbutted him with the back of her head, but the pain stopped her. His head was like a rock. Skado pushed her into the room, forcing her to walk.


    ¡°Let go of me now!¡± Remnya roared, her voice echoing throughout the empty halls. Skado covered her mouth and pushed her toward Persen, who waited on her bed with a smirk. She bit Skado¡¯s finger, forcing his hand away.


    ¡°You can¡¯t even handle a little girl,¡± Ronner sneered, standing in the doorway.


    ¡°Mr. Ronner!¡± Remnya shouted as a smile drew across her face. Her knight had arrived.


    Ronner walked into the room and observed the scene with an expressionless face. He scanned Persen¡¯s bleeding hands and face and stifled a chuckle.


    ¡°Mr. Ronner! Tell them to stop!¡± Remnya stared at him, twisting her body and kicking Skado, who didn¡¯t ease his grip on her.


    Ronner scratched his head and stood in front of her, gazing into her crimson eyes in silence. For the first time, Remnya didn¡¯t feel safe with him.


    ¡°I¡¯m sorry. I can¡¯t help you, Rem,¡± Ronner said with a stone face.


    His words felt like knives through her chest. Remnya shook her head in disbelief. Of course, he had to be kidding. ¡°Mr. Ronner?¡± She scanned his face, desperately searching for his tender smile. ¡°Please! I did nothing wrong!¡± Her vision blurred as tears welled up in her eyes.


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    Ronner caressed her face with the back of his hand and then sighed. That was the last time he looked at her. He averted his gaze and smiled at the monster crawling on her bed. ¡°Be gentle with her.¡± He told Persen in a monotonous tone and turned his back to her. Persen nodded with a big grin and sweat on his forehead.


    Remnya¡¯s heart shattered like crystal, and every piece turned into needles that pierced her insides. The man she admired so much, the man she trusted, had abandoned her.


    ¡°Mr. Ronner . . . please, don¡¯t leave me alone,¡± she muttered with her last spark of hope, but his blue eyes never turned to her again, and he faded as the door closed, sentencing her to hell.


    As Skado dropped her on the bed, her will to fight disappeared and silence filled her head.


    *¡ã*¡ã*


    Persen grabbed Remnya''s left arm, and as soon as she felt his touch, her body reacted on its own. She buried her nails in his hand and yanked her arm away. "Leave me alone!" she yelled.


    He tried to grab her legs, but Remnya almost broke his fingers with a powerful kick. She wished she had her shoes on. Persen let out a grunt of pain but didn''t release her arm.


    "You''re an aggressive one, aren''t you?"


    "Stupid, ugly old man! Let me go now! Marcus will kill you if you hurt me!" she screamed, glaring at him.


    "Marcus?" Persen guffawed, and Remnya silenced him with a powerful punch to the mouth.


    He flinched away as blood erupted from his nose. Her hands were heavier than he had imagined. "Skado!" he called when Remnya was about to get away from his grasp. Skado seized her free arm, and Persen took advantage of it to wrap his fat arms around her torso from behind, restraining her arms. Remnya twisted her body with all her strength. Unlike Skado, Persen had difficulties holding her.


    "Marcus will kill you!" she roared when Persen sniffed her hair and neck. Remnya felt disgusted. His expensive perfume was the grossest odor she had ever smelled. "Let me go!" She headbutted him.


    Persen winced, stunned by the blow. He realized the young Nephilim wouldn''t be easy to handle, but he wanted to subdue her himself. She was his trophy, his prey. He reached out for her thighs and tried to lift her dress, but Remnya landed a hit with her head on his nose, cracking his bridge. The stinging pain forced him to release her.


    Free and furious, Remnya whirled and struck him in the stomach and then missed another blow to his mouth. Persen ran out of air. She jumped off the bed to run away, but Skado caught her again.


    "Damn Nephilims! You are like wild animals." Persen laughed, rubbing his bleeding, deformed nose. No matter how much she damaged him, Persen recovered every time. He didn''t seem human anymore. "Skado, tie her hands up," he ordered, realizing he couldn''t handle the Nephilim on his own.


    Remnya elbowed Skado in the face, but it was like hitting a rock. He didn''t move an inch and jerked her arms behind her back, drew a leather belt from a nightstand, and tied up her wrists. Finally, he pushed her back on the bed. As she bounced on the mattress, Persen jumped over her and dropped on her legs, suppressing further attacks.


    Unable to punch or kick, Remnya wriggled her upper body in a futile attempt to break free. No matter how much she tried, Persen felt like a mountain crushing her legs. Remnya couldn''t understand why he was doing it. Why was that man trying to hurt her? Why was he trying to touch her body?


    Persen leaned on her to whisper stupid, disgusting things in her ear, things she didn''t comprehend. His nauseating breath reminded her of booze and rotten meat. He got too close to her mouth, and instinctively she bit him.


    The big man let out a cry of pain and took a hand to his cheek to check the damage. A stream of blood tinted his white shirt and underwear.


    "Fucking kid!" Persen bellowed and slapped Remnya across the face. His hands were much heavier than Orena''s, yet she felt nothing. "Okay, that''s it. Not gonna be gentle anymore!" His eyes turned red with anger, and then he charged at her, reaching for her clothes.


    With vicious yanks, he tore her dress apart, hurting her skin with his sharp nails. She didn''t understand why, but profound guilt accumulated in her chest, closing her throat. Was it her fault? Had she forced that man to do that to her?


    "Stop it!" Remnya shrieked. Her eyes were burning. For the first time in her life, she couldn''t defend herself. For the first time in her life, she was too weak. Where had all her strength gone? Ashamed of her pathetic self, she couldn''t hold it back anymore.


    Two tears trailed down her cheeks. They felt like boiling water in her eyes and skin. She hated herself for having broken her promise.


    "Please, stop it!" Remnya whimpered. Her pride shattered with every tear, slowly falling apart.


    "Don''t cry, my Nephilim." Persen smiled, wiping her tears with his finger and then caressing her face. "Just relax."


    He never stopped.


    Not until her dress was completely ruined.


    She looked away but still caught a glimpse of his eyes. Those weren''t the eyes of a person; those were the eyes of a beast driven by twisted instincts. Every beat of her heart pumped shame and terror throughout her cold body. Her weakness, now exposed to the delight of a monster. Her pride, now crushed.


    "Please . . . " Remnya sobbed, hoping that there was still humanity in him. "I''m sorry if I did something wrong." She sniffled. "Please stop, I''ll be good . . . I promise . . ."


    Persen ignored her. He was too focused on her body. Remnya gathered her last bit of strength to twist her torso, hoping, wishing her arms would break free.


    It was futile.


    Remnya closed her eyes.


    The world darkened.


    Hope vanished.


    She was forced to lie on her stomach, burying her face in the pillow. Remnya never understood the situation. Her pure heart was too naive to comprehend why Persen was removing her clothes. She wanted to disappear; she wanted to be swallowed by the earth. She wanted to die.


    Trembling and waiting for whatever Persen wanted to do with her, Remnya thought of Marcus. He had promised no one would hurt her. He lied to me . . . Why did everyone abandon me? What did I do wrong? I did nothing wrong! I did nothing wrong . . .


    The image of her friends flashed before her eyes.


    I''m sorry, Zeo . . . I was stupid . . .


    I should''ve listened to you . . .


    Silence.


    . . .


    Mom . . . Where are you?


    . . .


    A spark flashed into her darkness.


    An unbearable heat burned in her heart, flowing through her veins like magma, traveling throughout her body like a furious dragon, trying to destroy its chains.


    Remnya couldn''t hold it back anymore, her tears turned into fire, and so much pain erupted through her skin like a monstrous volcano.


    Persen screamed.


    He cried in horror.


    Crimson flames erupted from Remnya''s body, engulfing her bed, clothes, and Persen''s body.


    Persen shrieked and crawled away from her. He staggered and tripped on his own feet, dropping to the floor with both arms covered in crimson flames that melted his skin. He tried putting out the fire with clothes and sheets, but it was futile. It was glued to him like hot tar and dug deep into his skin, devouring his muscles.


    "Skado! Help me!" Persen howled as the flames caressed his face.


    Skado stood still with a blank stare fixed on him. He remained expressionless and did nothing other than watch him burn.


    Persen darted to the bathroom and turned the shower on, but the water only fueled the flames. His skin hissed and fell apart as he dragged his body out of the bathroom.


    With his face half-melted and unable to breathe, he finally dropped to the ground.


    He burned, writhed in agony on the floor, tried to get up, and fell again. He burned in crimson. His body melted like a candle, and when he tried to scream in horror for the last time, he couldn''t. The flames filled his entrails and cooked him inside out.


    Remnya burned too. A mesmerizing crimson blaze guarded her body. She lay on the ashes of her bed with her eyes closed and a peaceful expression.


    The whole room burned while smoke filled every corner. However, Skado stood still, watching in awe the deathly fireworks.


    Ronner walked into the room. A crimson glow flickered on his smile as he strutted among the flames.


    "Beautiful," Ronner whispered as he paced over to Remnya. She slept as roses of fire hugged her body. Her face was a river of lava and tranquility. That was her true self. She was more beautiful than ever.


    Ronner glanced at Persen''s burning body lying on the ground and chuckled. "Pathetic." He turned to Skado and patted his back. "Good job, my friend." The crackling sound of flames melting that corpse echoed in the crumbling room. "We didn''t have to intervene as you feared. Our little girl defended herself, just the way I told you she would."


    Skado said nothing. His eyes fixed on his dying father.


    "This is what happens when you try to play with fire." Ronner smirked. "You get burned."


    *¡ã*¡ã*

 20: Ashes In Your Mouth

    Ronner


    Ronner observed the disaster with fascination. Crimson tongues of fire devoured the weakened structure of the room, which crumbled into a mist of glowing embers. Remnya still lay on the ashes of her bed, unconscious. Her body had reached over one thousand degrees Celcius, forcing Ronner to wait hours before carrying her to the mansion''s mini-hospital.


    The young Nephilim slept while the doctors checked up on her health in search of abnormalities, but her body was intact. The fire had caused no harm. On the contrary, it had healed her wounds.


    While Ronner took care of Remnya, Skado removed his father''s corpse from the room, and along with his older brother, destroyed it, shoved it in sealed bags, and disposed of it as trash.


    When the mansion went to sleep, Ronner met the hybrid brothers in the courtyard. He carried several bottles of Redfire to celebrate, and two maids followed him. He pushed the girls toward the brothers and winked at them, proud of his present.


    Viper ignored the scared girls, his vacant stare lost in the distance. Skado wrapped a bony arm around the shorter one and bobbed his head, where he still wore bandages, courtesy of lady Magenta.


    "This is the beginning of our rule!" Ronner shouted, lifting his cup.


    Viper glanced at him and said nothing while his younger brother nodded in silence.


    "With Persen''s empire in our hands, we''re one step closer to our goal." He drank his red beverage. "The Kavalar coalition of Karx will be the most powerful army in the world."


    "Ramos''s allies still think you betrayed Karx," Viper said with his eyes fixed on his cup.


    "They can come for me whenever they please." Ronner shrugged. "I''m the only one who sees the bigger picture here. Karx doesn''t need wimps like Ramos and the like. They thought peace was an option and tried to find a pacifist way out of the war." Ronner spat on the ground. "Not only Karx, but The Hunters will grow to respect and fear my name."


    "What about the Nephilim?" Skado asked, sniffing the maid who poured his drink with trembling hands.


    "Remnya is the key to our success. The blood we need to achieve our goals."


    "The Crimson Project?" Viper inquired.


    Ronner nodded with a smirk. "Your pathetic father believed I''d just allow him to have my Nephilim and taint her body with his inferior genes." He guffawed. "How stupid."


    "We can create the most powerful warriors on Earth." Skado cracked a smile.


    "We might," Ronner said, scanning Skado''s face, surprised by his unusual reaction. "She''s not only a pure Nephilim, but she also has the crimson fire, the fire that will burn the whole world."


    Skado stifled a chuckle and paced around the garden under the attentive look of Ronner, who couldn''t believe that such a monster had emotions.


    "He seems more excited than usual," Ronner told Viper.


    "Yeah . . ." Viper glanced at his bother and then back at Ronner. "I''ll keep an eye on him."


    Ronner sipped his drink. "When Persen created you both," he started. "Did he use Netomic Cells?"


    "Yes." Viper gritted his teeth as his voice filled with contempt and disgust. "He couldn''t impregnate our mother otherwise."


    "Right . . . Human males have less than 5% of mating success with a hybrid female, even lower if the female is a pure Nephilim. That''s like 0,01%."


    "How ironic. Nephilim males have 100% of having offspring with a human female," Skado added, wrapping his claws around the other girl, who trembled and begged him not to hurt her.


    "That''s how pathetic humans are, inferior in every way." Ronner leaned on a tree, swaying his cup, observing the red liquid. "However, the offspring of a pure Nephilim female and pure human male is the most valuable creature you can get your hands on."


    "Is that so? Why?" Viper asked, seizing Skado''s arm before he killed the scared girl.


    "They say that the hybrids born from a female Nephilim lack the restraints of pure Nephilim genes. They can break all limits. However, they inherit the worst qualities of humans, making them prone to lose control. They''re driven by human emotions after all."


    "Dangerous creatures." Viper sipped his drink with his eyes locked on his unstable brother, who had a sinister grin plastered across his face.


    "Exactly," Ronner added with a serious look. "But, there''s a way to suppress such negative traits."


    "The offspring of a female Nephilim and a hybrid," Skado exclaimed, crushing the bones of the maid against his chest. The girl let out a squeal as her eyes turned white before fainting.


    Ronner bobbed his head, unfazed by the cruel sight. "Though," he added. "That''s not my intention. Remnya is still a little girl, and I''m not wasting her potential in such a pathetic fashion."


    Skado''s smile faded as he shattered the cup in his hand. He tried to say something, but Viper stopped him with a glare and shook his head in a silent warning. Skado returned a dirty look, spat on the ground, and walked away, leaving the unconscious girl lying on the ground.


    Ronner darted a sidelong glance at him and giggled. "Do keep an eye on him, my friend."


    Viper nodded as he enjoyed the last drop of Redfire on his tongue.


    *¡ã*¡ã*


    Brisa


    Brisa returned to her room late at night. A gloomy aura lingered in the hallways like a melancholic ghost stalking her from the shadows. Without Magenta around, the mansion was falling apart. Her perfectionism used to reflect on the littlest details, but now with Ronner in charge, everything was a distant memory.


    The maid stopped by the corridor where Remnya''s room used to be. Everyone had seen the fire last night, but no one dared to ask about it. Brisa took a deep breath and decided to find out what lay ahead. She gasped, covering her face as she witnessed that room in ruins. It had been destroyed, and Ronner did little to hide it. He didn''t care anymore, he was the boss, and nobody was crazy enough to question his decisions. Brisa shook her head and hesitantly took one step forward.


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    Everything reeked of burnt wood and cloth, but as she got closer to the bathroom, an intense odor of burnt flesh almost made her puke. Brisa bolted out of the room to gasp for air. She began panting, and her face turned pale.


    What the hell happened here? Where is Remnya? It can''t be . . . No, no way.


    Brisa turned to face the disaster again. She knew Remnya was valuable for them, so she had to be alive, no doubt, but thinking about what Ronner had planned for the Nephilim froze her blood. She had started toward her room when someone seized her arm. Trembling, and with unshed tears in her golden eyes, she turned to face her nightmare.


    Ronner had his penetrating blue orbs locked on her.


    "Worried about Remnya?" he asked with a mischievous twist of his lips.


    Brisa lowered her gaze and shook her head.


    "Don''t worry, she''s fine. She''s recovering from her petty outburst." He glanced at the burnt room. "Pay attention, honey, because that innocent Nephilim is a true monster." Ronner leaned closer and winked.


    Brisa flinched away. "I understand, sir," she mumbled as sweat crawled on her skin.


    "I don''t like that look in your face, Bris." Ronner caressed her cheek and brushed her hair. His eyes scanned her body, reaching her soul. "You see . . . Magenta is out of the game now. It took me a while to get rid of her, but she made it easy with her last stupid mistake."


    The maid averted her flickering eyes. She gulped and nodded, hoping he would let her go soon. However, he tightened his grasp on her arm, burying his fingers in her skin.


    "I know I''ve made mistakes, but . . . " Ronner grabbed her chin and shoved his face right in front of hers, whereas their noses touched. "I want to make up for it. I wanna be a good man for you." He smiled, almost sounding honest. But Brisa only saw the monster behind his mask.


    "You''ve been good," she muttered, doing her best to keep eye contact.


    "Bullshit. I can see the fear in your beautiful eyes, Brisa." Ronner sniffed her neck, caressing her skin with his nose. "But you won''t fear me anymore. This is a new beginning for us." She could feel his minty breath and his delicious yet terrifying aroma.


    "What do you want from me?" Brisa asked, narrowing her eyes. She knew her fear was irresistible to him, so she tried to show courage.


    Ronner chuckled. "Come with me, my beauty." He pulled her with him through the corridors.


    Her heart raced as she tried to match his pace. Tears trailed down her eyes, but she quickly wiped them with her free hand. Whatever he wanted, she hoped it would be quick and not too painful.


    Ronner took her upstairs toward the last floor. He released her arm in front of a large room. She could only hear the screams of her heart, desperately trying to escape her chest.


    As the door opened, he beckoned her to step inside with a sinister smirk. Her knees weakened. Thinking about what he would do to her was like getting ready for a slow and painful death. With resignation as her only ally, she took a deep breath and did as he said.


    The bedroom was massive, way bigger than Remnya''s, and luxury spread across every corner.


    "What do you think?" he asked, standing next to her.


    "It''s beautiful," she murmured, forgetting her fear for a moment. The gold and diamonds covering every piece of furniture were mesmerizing.


    "With Magenta here, I could never show favoritism, but with her gone, I don''t need to pretend anymore." Ronner stood in front of her and smiled, his eyes shining. "This will be your room from now on."


    His words struck her with confusion and fear. She had always wanted a royal room like that. She was extremely jealous of everyone getting better things than her, but the situation was far from pleasing. Perfect on the outside but rotten on the inside.


    "Are you sure?" she asked, marveling at the golden silk on the bed; he had picked her favorite colors.


    "Yes!" Ronner slid his hands around her waist and squeezed her sides with odd tenderness. "I never cared about Magenta, you''ve always been my favorite, I wanted you so bad that I had to do what I did . . . " He pressed his hips against hers. "I''m sorry."


    Brisa tightened her lips. Her entire body trembled at his touch. She couldn''t believe his words and hated how honest he sounded. But she was trapped; he would have his way whether she wanted it or not.


    Ronner had been after her ever since the day they met. Brisa remembered the first time she saw him. He was like a prince, perfect. The way he looked at her was hypnotic. She never imagined a high-class man like him could be interested in a maid like herself. Eventually, he approached her, lured her into his lips, and shared his bed with her.


    However, Brisa found out he was Magenta''s man, and despite her feelings, the second time, she rejected him out of respect for The Lady. She couldn''t have anything to do with him anymore, but Ronner wouldn''t accept that. The handsome gentleman transformed into a wicked beast who forced her to do everything he wanted. Nobody dared to do or say anything. That was the beginning of her torment.


    Brisa nodded. "I''m sorry too," she whispered, hoping those words could ease the pain in her soul and please the monster in front of her.


    "I know what you''re thinking, Brisa," he started. "You''re terrified . . . and know refusing me wouldn''t do you any good." Ronner sighed. "No need to play dumb with me, I''m not that stupid." He squeezed her body with such force she could barely breathe. "Now, be honest with me. Tell me how you really feel."


    She held back tears and stared into his terrifying eyes. "I''m afraid . . . " Tears rolled down her cheeks as she gathered the strength to speak. "Why are you like this? Why do you hurt me? I did nothing wrong to deserve all this!"


    Ronner''s expression softened as he released her body. "I don''t know," he murmured. "I don''t know how to behave. I''m like an animal." He bit his lips and lowered his gaze. "You dared to reject me. How could I allow such a thing?"


    "You were Magenta''s man!" Brisa yelled as she wiped her tears. "I was just doing the right thing, and you . . . " She covered her face, muffling her sobs.


    "I want to change." Ronner narrowed his eyes. "Help me change, Brisa."


    Brisa''s eyes burned. She didn''t care about the consequences at that moment. She had to scream what she held inside. "You killed Marcus, Gorth, and now you want to kill Magenta too! Stop it, Ronner, please!"


    Ronner let out a deep sigh as he dropped onto the bed. He folded his arms and twisted his lips. "I have yet to decide what to do with Magenta."


    "What about Remnya? Are you gonna hurt her too?" Brisa scowled.


    "That''s not my intention. It all depends on how well she responds to our experiments."


    Brisa kneeled in front of him, sniffling as she shook her head. "Don''t hurt her, please. If you truly want to change as you claim, don''t hurt her."


    Ronner gave Brisa a sidelong glance, disbelief on his face. He closed his eyes and thought for a moment, tense silence cutting through them. When his eyes opened again, he gestured at Brisa to sit on his lap. She let out a silent gasp. Her body shivered, but she did as he said. He wrapped his arms around her, holding her tightly.


    "If I don''t hurt Remnya, would you give me a chance?" he asked in a monotonous tone, his eyes fixed on the floor.


    Brisa gritted her teeth. Even if she didn''t, he would still do whatever he wanted with her. She took a deep breath and clasped her hands. "Yes . . . I would."


    "No." Ronner squeezed her thighs and scanned her face in search of lies. "Would you stop fearing me if I don''t hurt Remnya?"


    "That''s likely." Brisa did her best to sound convincing.


    "Show me," he whispered, expressionless as his eyes didn''t move an inch.


    The maid thought of Remnya, the only one who had cared about her when no one else did. She remembered that night. When no one else gave a damn about a disposable maid, Remnya tried to help her. Brisa swallowed her fear and turned to him, locking her eyes on his gaze. His pupils were whether a tunnel toward a tsunami of terror or a tender sea of peace.


    Brisa ruffled his hair, noticing how soft it was. She hesitated for a moment. Her heart wanted to stop, but she found strength in her will to protect the Nephilim. Brisa leaned on and kissed him.


    The maid forgot who he was for a second. Being the second time she kissed him willingly, his lips felt different, almost tender. Not full of violence and lust.


    She stopped to stare at him, blushing with fear and shame. Ronner''s face was ice. He seemed to be fighting the demon he had inside. His hands twitched on her thighs as if he were fighting his will to hurt her.


    It felt like hours until he spoke again.


    "Go back to your room, Brisa. We''ll bring your belongings here tomorrow." His voice was weak, without emotion.


    Brisa nodded and stood up. She glanced at Ronner, who looked like a statue. What was he thinking? That monster almost looked human. Brisa bowed and rushed out of the room. She felt like walking out of a cage full of lions.


    Tears soaked her eyes as painful feelings tangled in her mind, but deep in her heart, she felt like this could be the beginning of the light at the end of the tunnel.


    *¡ã*¡ã*

 21: Youre Not Alone

    Magenta


    The infirmary of the mansion had been built as a mini-hospital with its own doctors and sophisticated equipment. It was an unknown place for most servants. However, her most trusted maid, Maria, knew it very well. Magenta was lying in a narrow bed, pale and pitiful, her figure a ghost of the powerful woman she used to be; bandages wrapped around her arms and head while several devices checked her vital signs.


    Someone opened the door, and immediately, Magenta recognized Maria¡¯s soft steps. For the first time, the maid would see her lady without makeup or fancy clothes.


    Maria tugged her dress and sat next to Magenta, her gaze fixed on the white sheets. The young girl remained silent for long minutes. Without her lady nearby, her fate was uncertain, and Ronner was the owner of her life.


    ¡°My lady,¡± Maria murmured. ¡°What should I do?¡± She wiped unshed tears from her lavender eyes and lifted her face toward the ceiling, where incandescent lights made her squint.


    ¡°Maria,¡± Magenta whispered, her voice a thin thread.


    ¡°Yes!¡± She rushed to answer and grabbed her cold hand. ¡°I¡¯m here.¡±


    Magenta¡¯s eyes were a thin line, but her emerald gaze sneaked through her eyelids, fixing on Maria. ¡°You look awful,¡± the lady said.


    Maria chuckled. ¡°I know . . . How are you feeling, my lady?¡±


    ¡°I feel like shit.¡± Magenta scoffed, opening her eyes. Her cranium felt like falling apart, but she wouldn¡¯t let Maria see her in pain. ¡°Are you okay? Did that jerk hurt you?¡±


    The maid shook her head. ¡°He has not shown any interest in me as usual.¡±


    ¡°Good.¡± Magenta¡¯s eyes shut again. ¡°You need to leave this damned place as soon as possible.¡±


    ¡°No way I¡¯d do that!¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t be stupid!¡± The lady scowled at her. ¡°Who knows what he will do to you!¡±


    ¡°Even so . . . I can¡¯t just abandon you, my lady.¡±


    Magenta chuckled bitterly. ¡°I chose this, this is my fate. I fell into my own trap. But you? You still have a life to live!¡± she shouted, squeezing Maria¡¯s hand with all her remaining strength.


    ¡°How could I live leaving you all behind?¡± Maria shook her head again. ¡°No, I can¡¯t do that! Don¡¯t ask me that, please.¡±


    The lady sighed. ¡°I know what you¡¯re thinking . . . You believe there¡¯s still something you can do to save me and Brisa along with the Nephilim.¡±


    ¡°I must try . . . ¡° Maria lowered her gaze and fixed it on her hands wrapped around Magenta¡¯s fingers.


    ¡°Stubborn as usual, silly kid.¡± She chuckled. ¡°I¡¯d kick your ass outta here if I could.¡±


    Maria smiled. ¡°I know we can do it, my lady. It¡¯s not over yet. I can feel it.¡±


    Magenta remained silent for a moment. ¡°Marcus . . .¡± she trailed off, recalling his sulky yet beautiful eyes. ¡°He told me about his plan. He knew he wouldn¡¯t make it out of here alive and trusted I¡¯d do what he asked me.¡± Her lips tightened as she swallowed her pain. ¡°Fucking idiot. He knew me too well.¡±


    ¡°We can still finish what he started . . . ¡°


    ¡°Marcus left me a letter where he explained everything to me. I did as he asked me. Everything should¡¯ve gone as planned, but . . . ¡° A tear rolled down her cheek and landed on the pillow. ¡°I made a mistake . . . I wasted time, and Ronner figured out my plan sooner than expected.¡± Magenta took a deep breath, trying not to drown in sobs. ¡°However, you can still finish his mission for me.¡±


    Maria tightened her grasp on her hand. ¡°Tell me what I need to do, my lady! I¡¯ll do whatever it takes!¡±


    Magenta regarded her with a tender smile and caressed her face. ¡°You¡¯re so naive . . . but I¡¯m glad I can count on you, Maria.¡± The maid beamed at her. ¡°Alright. Listen to me carefully now, my dear, because the slightest mistake could be your last.¡±


    Maria leaned closer, narrowing her eyes as she bobbed her head.


    ¡°Ronner¡¯s a narcissist prick who thinks he can outsmart anyone, but . . . ¡° Magenta smirked. ¡°Hybrid or not, he¡¯s still a man, with the weakness of a man. One of his biggest flaws is his overconfidence. He still believes I never saw through his facade.¡± The lady bit her lower lip. ¡°For the past years, I took my time doing my own research. Honestly, I had hoped I¡¯d never have to use this against him, but I have no choice now . . . Pay attention here, my dear.¡±


    Maria¡¯s hand twitched as Magenta¡¯s eyes penetrated through hers. A fire burned in the lady¡¯s soul. ¡°I¡¯ll tell you the location of our last hope. First, go get the Anglish boy, you¡¯ll need his help, and then, find this person . . . the only one Ronner fears in this fucked up world . . . ¡°


    *¡ã*¡ã*


    Zeo


    Every afternoon Zeo wandered the garden where he used to meet Remnya. His vision blurred at the thought of such a distant memory. That tragic night, while every servant ran and screamed, Zeo stood still, gazing at the crimson fire. He knew it well; he had seen it in the orphanage before. But the memory had been caged deep in his heart for years.


    Until that night.


    Instinctively, Zeo knew his friend was in danger and ran to her aid, but Viper, who guarded the mansion¡¯s gates, stopped him. Driven by sheer will or naive madness, he tried to force his way in to save his friend, but Viper put him to sleep with a punch.


    Zeo lay on the grass all night until a maid woke him up when everything was over. He thought of multiple ways of getting into the mansion, but guards watched the gates day and night. Powerless and unable to know Remnya¡¯s fate, desperation began to invade his body like a giant spider crawling on his skin.


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    He only found a fragile peace, believing the crimson fire was Remnya¡¯s guardian angel. If it had protected her before, it would do it again. She had to be safe. He hoped so.


    But for how long?


    Having cleaned the kitchen, Zeo strolled through the garden one last time before twilight. He observed the White Fangs blooming behind the bench where they used to sit together. Tears didn¡¯t escape his eyes this time; he had cried enough.


    Zeo glimpsed someone walking toward him in the distance. Magenta¡¯s maid, Maria. He had seen her before, but never that close. She didn¡¯t dress as a maid that day; she was wearing a casual white dress. Zeo froze at the sight of such a beautiful girl. She smiled at him, and his heart almost popped out of his chest.


    ¡°Zeo, right?¡± Maria asked.


    ¡°Yes!¡± Zeo stuttered, standing upwards with both arms crossed on his back.


    ¡°May I talk with you?¡±


    ¡°Yes!¡± he shouted, almost choking.


    Maria eased herself onto a wooden bench and took a moment to order her thoughts in silence. ¡°I¡¯ll get straight to the point, Zeo . . . ¡° Her smile faded. ¡°Remnya is in danger, and I need your help.¡±


    Her words felt like a gelid punch to the face. His nervousness shattered, giving way to a fire burning his veins. ¡°What happened? What did they do to her?¡± He raised his voice, burying his fingernails in his palms.


    Maria explained the situation, every detail from Ronner to Persen and his sons. The more Zeo learned, the paler he became. He wanted to dart toward the mansion and rescue his friend with his very hands, but his brain yelled at him to think.


    ¡°That¡¯s why I need your help, Zeo. You need to leave the mansion and find this person.¡± Maria bit her lower lip as she scanned their surroundings every second.


    ¡°Maria . . . I can¡¯t abandon my friend,¡± Zeo mumbled. His eyes locked on the ground.


    ¡°We¡¯ll do our best to take care of her. Not only me, Brisa too. As far as we know it, Ronner only wants to use her Nephilim cells to enhance his own abilities. It¡¯ll be tough for her, yes, but she¡¯s a strong girl.¡± Maria sprang from her seat and grabbed Zeo¡¯s hand. He froze. ¡°The sooner we stop him, the less damage he will cause to her.¡±


    Confusion and sorrow tangled around Zeo¡¯s brain like a dark hand crushing his mind. Her words were true, and he hated how useless he had been until that moment. ¡°Who is this person I need to find?¡± Zeo narrowed his eyes. ¡°I¡¯ll do anything to save Remnya . . . and all of you, too.¡±


    Maria let out a silent sigh of relief and beamed at him. She slid her fingers in her pocket and drew a thin tablet, turned on the screen, and focused her eyes on it. ¡°His name is Debrin Kavram. Lady Magenta doesn¡¯t know much about him, but he was Ronner¡¯s captain in Karx. She believes he¡¯s the main reason Ronner abandoned Karx, and the main reason he¡¯s building an army and needs Remnya¡¯s help.¡±


    Zeo held his chin in a serious expression. ¡°Even if that¡¯s true, why would he help us? How do we know he¡¯s not as bad as Ronner?¡±


    ¡°We don¡¯t know that.¡± Maria rubbed her arm and looked to the side. ¡°But the lady did her research. He¡¯s the person Ronner hates the most, yet has never dared to attack. What¡¯s stopping him?¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t know,¡± Zeo trailed off as he observed the flowers blooming under a tree. ¡°Is there really a chance of saving Rem, though?¡±


    ¡°Lady Magenta risked her life because she believed in it, Zeo. His initial plan was taking Remnya to Debrin Kavram. She trusted he could help her.¡± Maria placed her hand on his shoulder, furrowing her eyebrows as she leaned closer. ¡°Do you believe she would take such a risk for nothing?¡±


    Zeo lowered his head, feeling his doubts were an insult to Maria. ¡°I¡¯m sorry . . . I¡¯m just afraid and lost.¡°


    Maria shook her head. ¡°As are we all, Zeo . . . The lady knows she probably doesn¡¯t have much time left, and there¡¯s nothing I can do to protect her.¡° A tear trailed down Maria¡¯s cheek as her hand twitched on his shoulder.


    Zeo grabbed Maria¡¯s hand and narrowed his eyes at her. Her tears reminded him of what he was fighting for and who he wanted to be. He had failed to protect people so many times before, especially Remnya. Zeo was tired. Tired of seeing people in pain and being unable to do anything.


    ¡°Alright . . . ¡° Zeo mumbled at first, but then his voice sharpened. ¡°I¡¯ll do it, Maria. Whatever it takes, I¡¯ll do it!¡±


    The maid wiped her tears as a tender smile drew across her face. ¡°Thank you, Zeo. I knew I could count on you.¡±


    Zeo stared deep into her glistening eyes and tried to return a smile, but footsteps forced him to snap back to reality. They spotted Skado and two men gathering near the mansion¡¯s gates.


    ¡°I need to return,¡± Maria whispered as she sneaked a cell phone into Zeo¡¯s hand. ¡°I¡¯ll call you as soon as I can. Please, do not lose this phone.¡±


    ¡°Understood.¡± Zeo bobbed his head.


    Maria beamed at him. Her tears had disappeared, and her teeth reflected the dying sunlight. She looked perfect. Zeo watched her walking away until she faded into the mansion.


    *¡ã*¡ã*


    Hot, damp air lingered in the garden like a giant woolen blanket. The night sky had blurred with dark clouds, teasing with promises of rain. Zeo returned to the servants¡¯ house with a tower of plates in his hands; he had offered to work extra hours. It helped with his growing anxiety. Plus, it gave him the chance to wander the garden until midnight. Perhaps he could sneak into the mansion and see Remnya.


    Done with all his tasks, Zeo dropped on his favorite bench and stared up at the sky. A droplet landed on his glasses. Finally, a break from the heat. He wished he could stay in the garden all night. Being physically close to Remnya eased the pain in his heart a little. Zeo closed his eyes and allowed the tender breeze to drag away his concerns for a moment.


    Hold on, Rem, I¡¯ll get you out of this damn place soon!


    He must¡¯ve fallen asleep because when he opened his eyes, the garden was empty. Only the wind whistled softly in his ears. Zeo looked left and right, but it seemed like everyone had gone to sleep and forgotten about him. Shaking his dreams off, he rushed to the servants¡¯ house before they locked the doors.


    ¡°Very impressive, sir. I expected no less from you.¡±


    An unknown voice in the distance froze Zeo on the spot. His right ear twitched.


    ¡°Yes, it¡¯s just a matter of time.¡±


    He recognized the second voice. Skado. He could not forget his terrifying, raspy pitch. Scanning the garden, he spotted a group of three men gathered at the mansion¡¯s gates. Zeo crouched and dragged himself behind the bushes.


    ¡°The high bitch doesn¡¯t have much time left.¡±


    Zeo tiptoed closer to overhear their conversation. He dropped under a tangled bunch of vines and lifted his long pointy ears; their size would come in handy now.


    ¡°But what are you waiting for, sir?¡± a deep voice asked. Zeo peeked out from behind the leaves at Skado and a broad man.


    ¡°Ronner being a cunt as usual,¡± Skado replied with contempt. ¡°He wants me to wait, just in case. He said the maid needs to stay safe for now. That way he can use her to force Magenta to sign all the papers.¡±


    ¡°Oh, is he really doing it that way?¡± The man laughed. ¡°If Magenta signs that shit, all her fortune, til the last cent, will be his. That smart bastard!¡±


    ¡°Once that¡¯s done, the maid will be mine.¡± Skado chuckled and blew a mouthful of smoke.


    Zeo let out a silent gasp as his heart kicked in his chest.


    ¡°She¡¯s cute, isn¡¯t she? I wonder if she¡¯s good in bed.¡±


    ¡°Ronner claims she¡¯s still a virgin.¡± Zeo could distinguish Skado¡¯s smirk.


    ¡°No way! I thought she had something with that butler, Christian, wasn¡¯t it?¡±


    ¡°She better not, or I¡¯ll have to gift her the butler¡¯s head in a nice box.¡±


    Everyone guffawed.


    ¡°Ronner promised me a lot of things, he better not lie to me. I told him I want Magenta¡¯s maid and I¡¯ll have her.¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re so lucky, sir. Wish I could have a beautiful girl like Maria.¡±


    A heavy hand landed on Zeo¡¯s shoulder. ¡°What are you doing here, kid?¡±


    Zeo¡¯s eyes almost popped out of his eye sockets as he whirled to face the voice behind him. It was Clara, the gardener, an old lady with a funny frown.


    ¡°Look at what you did, Zeo! You crushed the sprouts!¡± she yelled, pointing at the mess Zeo had done with her flowers.


    ¡°I¡¯m so sorry, lady Clara!¡± Zeo shouted, springing from the ground. He bowed to her and darted out of her reach like a bullet.


    ¡°Hey! Come back here!¡±


    Zeo sprinted to the servants¡¯ house, holding his breath while his heart pushed against his throat.


    No, no, no. . . This can¡¯t be!


    Maria. . . She is in danger too!


    *¡ã*¡ã*

 22: Stranded Soul

    Remnya


    Remnya¡¯s mind was a void in her head. Devoid of sensations, she couldn¡¯t tell the difference between life and death. A timeless nightmare where her only company was her brain playing tricks on her. During her three days journey through hell, she glimpsed familiar silhouettes in the darkness. The most vivid one was Marcus¡¯. Why was he the only one? Remnya felt an overwhelming nostalgia when his bodyguard showed up before her. Unfortunately, she couldn¡¯t feel his warm hugs anymore.


    The faint smell of alcohol and disinfectant woke her up on the fourth morning. Back to her senses, she tried to open her eyes, but her eyelids were too heavy, and a white flash blinded her. It took her a moment to recognize her surroundings. Remnya tried to sit up, but her body didn¡¯t respond. When her eyes adapted to the incandescent lights, she witnessed in horror her arms and legs restrained.


    Her body hung from her wrists and neck, held tightly by steel devices attached to a platform. She was only wearing her underwear, while multiple wires were attached to her body with electrodes. Her heart kicked against her chest as she twisted her weakened body in a futile attempt to break free.


    ¡°I¡¯m glad you woke up, young lady,¡± an old man in a white coat said. He was sitting meters away from her with his glasses fixed on a computer screen.


    ¡°What is this? Where am I?¡± Remnya mumbled, scanning the place with dilated eyes. Everything was glowing white.


    He walked up to her. ¡°My name is Sagan. Doctor Sagan. I apologize for the uncomfortable circumstances we meet in, but Mr. Ronner thought this would be the best method to execute our tests.¡±


    A blow of realization hit her face as she recalled isolated events from the past. The last thing she remembered was an unbearable heat inside her body and falling unconscious when Persen was undressing her.


    ¡°Persen . . . ¡° she whispered, and her breath shortened. ¡°Where¡¯s he?¡±


    ¡°Worry not, young lady.¡± Sagan smiled. ¡°He¡¯s dead and buried. We shall keep those events as a secret, though.¡±


    Her face turned pale like a ghost. ¡°What events? What did he do to me?¡± Remnya shouted, panting as cold shivers ran down her spine.


    ¡°Nothing. You defended yourself. Well, technically, your body did. Your pureness has been preserved, young lady.¡± He bobbed his head with enthusiasm.


    An odd feeling of relief eased her heart, but soon, new concerns arose. ¡°Let me go!¡± She glared at Sagan. ¡°What¡¯s the meaning of this?¡±


    ¡°Please, relax, young lady. We shall proceed with our tests now. It won¡¯t take long.¡± Sagan typed multiple keys on a blue touchscreen.


    A long cylindrical device resembling a gun emerged from the floor in front of her and stopped, aiming at her left arm.


    ¡°What is this? What are you doing?¡± She shook her body.


    ¡°Breath deeply, young lady. This shouldn¡¯t hurt.¡± The man entered a command and dropped a switch. The tip of the device glowed orange as it heated up. Remnya ran out of breath, shrieking as she felt the heat increasing over her.


    The device shot a stream of blue fire directly into her arm. Remnya forced the steel around her wrists with all her strength and closed her eyes.


    However, the flame didn¡¯t hurt at all.


    Slowly, she turned to look at it. The fire was hitting her forearm, yet she only felt a warm sensation, softer than her hairdryer.


    ¡°What is this? What are you trying to do?¡± Her voice trembled.


    ¡°As expected. Not even this 5000 degrees Celsius torch can harm your body, young lady.¡±


    Remnya widened her eyes, staggered and mesmerized by the blue flame caressing her skin.


    ¡°You¡¯ve always been immune to fire, but ever since you¡¯ve awakened your hidden abilities, your resistance to heat has increased dramatically.¡±


    The flame stopped.


    Sagan grabbed a steel beam he had been heating up over a stove and approached it to Remnya¡¯s stomach.


    ¡°Take that away!¡± she yelled, leaning away from the metal. But again, when it touched her belly, it didn¡¯t hurt.


    ¡°Fascinating,¡± he said, taking the metal away.


    ¡°Who the hell are you?¡± Remnya scowled at him. She wanted to kick his face and shove the metal up his mouth. ¡°Where¡¯s Ronner?¡±


    ¡°I told you, young lady. I am Sagan, a bio-scientist from the ECC of Crysalton.¡± He bowed. ¡°Mr. Ronner trusted me with this research. I¡¯m so honored to work with you.¡±


    ¡°Why am I chained like this? Let me go!¡± she shouted, shaking her arms and legs violently.


    ¡°Mr. Ronner assumed you wouldn¡¯t be very fond of cooperating with us. My apologies, young lady. This was not my decision.¡±


    ¡°Ronner . . . ¡° Remnya huffed. ¡°This is embarrassing! I want my clothes back, stupid old man!¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m sorry, young lady. We had to remove your clothes or else they could catch fire.¡±


    Remnya clenched her fists as an actual fire built up in her. ¡°Shut up and let me go now!¡± She spat on his face.


    Sagan was unimpressed. He blinked and wiped his face with a handkerchief. ¡°I¡¯ll release the young lady if she promises to cooperate and not hurt me.¡±


    ¡°I promise!¡± she yelled, shooting a glare at him. ¡°Now, do it!¡±


    Sagan deactivated the security system from his computer. A loud beep and a clank resounded throughout the room as the locks released Remnya, who dropped to the solid metal floor. She rubbed her wrists and demanded him to give her clothes back. As she tried to stand up, her legs didn¡¯t respond. They were numb and cold.


    ¡°Take it easy, young lady. One step at the time. Remember, you¡¯ve not walked in days,¡± he said, observing her clumsy moves.


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    Remnya curled her lips and dressed up where she lay. It took her a while until she could stand on her own. She wanted to punch the old man but held back; her body was too weak for it. She took her time to scan the place. It was a lab, no doubt. The room glowed in dazzling white, and screens covered every wall, each displaying different information.


    A metal door slid open, and Ronner walked in. Sagan bowed as he approached Remnya, who sat in a corner with her eyes locked on him.


    ¡°I¡¯m glad you¡¯re awake. I was so worried,¡± Ronner said, smiling.


    Remnya darted at him like an arrow, knocking him to the ground, and punched him with all her strength.


    *¡ã*¡ã*


    Remnya had Ronner pinned down on the cold laboratory¡¯s floor. Sagan tried to talk her out of it but blinded by rage, Remnya slapped the doctor¡¯s face, sending his glasses flying away. Her fists returned to Ronner, who laughed at her weakened hits.


    Ronner seized her wrists and smiled at her. ¡°Rem, please, don¡¯t do that.¡±


    ¡°Asshole!¡± she shouted, headbutting him like an angry ram.


    Ronner was unimpressed and pushed Remnya away as he sat up without releasing her arms. ¡°I¡¯m glad you¡¯re feeling so lively today.¡±


    She yanked her arms away from his grasp and kicked his chest. ¡°Stupid jerk! You lied to me!¡± Her eyes burned with unshed tears, but she wouldn¡¯t let them out in front of him.


    ¡°At least allow me to explain this situation to you, Rem.¡± Ronner blocked a kick aimed at his nose.


    Remnya¡¯s body began to feel the effects of her three days nightmare and realized her hits wouldn¡¯t make a difference. She stopped, her fists clenched. She wanted to scream, run, and cry.


    ¡°You¡¯re right to be mad,¡± he started. ¡°But you need to understand I did all this for your own sake.¡±


    Remnya scowled and fixed her eyes on the floor. Nothing would change what she went through.


    ¡°I needed you to unlock your hidden abilities, and the only way to achieve that was by pushing you to your limits.¡±


    ¡°You sold me to that disgusting old man!¡± She shot a glare at him. ¡°I thought I was gonna die!¡±


    ¡°I was gonna stop him before he hurt you.¡± He shrugged. ¡°Your body is intact, isn¡¯t it?¡± His voice was calm and laid back, giving little importance to her horrible experience.


    Remnya still couldn¡¯t believe he was the same person she had trusted so much. Zeo¡¯s words echoed in her mind, stinging her brain like sharp knives.


    ¡°You¡¯re a piece of shit . . . ¡° she murmured, her eyes glistening with hot tears of hatred.


    ¡°That¡¯s rude, Remnya.¡± His warm look changed. Now it was ice freezing her bones.


    ¡°Marcus never hurt Brisa. It was you, wasn¡¯t it?¡± Remnya raised her voice as she buried her nails in her hands.


    Ronner regarded her with a smirk and said nothing.


    ¡°Answer me!¡± Remnya seized his suit, yanking him toward her face. ¡°For once, stop lying to me!¡±


    He took a long moment to digest her question, and then his smile fell apart, revealing his true nature. His demeanor darkened as his eyes fixed on her, sending shivers down her spine.


    ¡°Yes, I did.¡± His voice was low and gelid like a glacial. ¡°Your innocent mind would never comprehend the complexity of my love for Brisa. That¡¯s why I lied to you. You¡¯re too naive for this world, Remnya.¡±


    ¡°I blamed Marcus for it . . . when it was all you!¡± Remnya screamed as boiling tears trailed down her cheeks, burning her skin. She charged at him and landed a powerful punch on his face; all her sorrow and pain accumulated in a stone fist that crushed his jaw.


    Ronner flinched away, slightly stunned by the unexpected force of her blow. Remnya panted, all her energy suddenly gone.


    Ronner stifled a chuckle and turned to face her, his skin reddening. ¡°What¡¯s done is done, Remnya,¡± he said and pushed her away from him. It was a gentle thrust, but it sent Remnya flying backward like a rag doll.


    She almost fell and hit her head against the wall, but Sagan caught her in the air. He helped her back to her feet and stared at Ronner with disbelief in his eyes.


    Remnya froze, unable to believe how easily Ronner could hurt her if he wanted to. Her knees began shaking.


    ¡°Whether you are happy with it or not, I don¡¯t care.¡± Ronner stood up and shook the dust off his suit. ¡°We have a more important mission here.¡± Ronner smirked, his eyes penetrating Remnya¡¯s body like lances.


    ¡°Your mission is to cooperate with us and provide me with your powerful Nephilim DNA.¡±


    ¡°What the hell are you talking about? I¡¯d never help you with anything!¡± she shouted.


    ¡°I guess I wasn¡¯t clear enough. I¡¯m not asking you, it¡¯s not a choice anymore, Rem.¡±


    Remnya lowered her gaze and tightened her fists, wishing she could erupt into flames again to melt the cocky expression off his face. Remnya knew she had a powerful ability, yet she had no idea how to use it and was terrified to find out.


    ¡°Soon, you¡¯ll realize I am your ally, not your enemy. If you cooperate with me, no one is gonna hurt you. You have my word.¡±


    ¡°What do you want from me?¡± she murmured, glancing at him.


    ¡°It¡¯s simple. As for now, all I want are blood samples, and your cooperation with the tests we will perform to measure the true magnitude of your power. Your life won¡¯t change for the most part. The only difference is that you¡¯ll need to visit Sagan, and of course, keep this as a secret. Sounds pretty easy, right?¡±


    Remnya curled her lips, her fists softening as resignation crushed her soul. ¡°What if I refuse?¡±


    ¡°Your friend Zeo . . . ¡°


    ¡°No!¡± Remnya shouted, glaring at him. ¡°Do not dare!¡±


    Ronner smirked. ¡°Then, be a good girl and help me help you, and your friend will be alright.¡±


    Remnya took a deep breath. She squeezed her eyes shut, tears slipping through her eyelids, and swallowed her pride. ¡°Alright . . . I¡¯ll do it.¡±


    ¡°Excellent.¡± He beamed at her, his expression changing again. He almost resembled the man she used to trust. ¡°I knew I could count on you.¡±


    ¡°But!¡± Remnya rushed to add. ¡°I want to see Zeo! I won¡¯t help you unless I know he¡¯s alright!¡±


    Ronner chuckled. ¡°Of course! I¡¯ll let you see him as soon as possible. Just be patient, okay?¡±


    Remnya tightened her lips and bobbed her head slowly.


    ¡°Very well. Now, I have a surprise for you. Come with me, please.¡± Ronner started toward the lab door, which slid open, displaying an endless white passage.


    Remnya glanced at Sagan, who had an unreadable expression on his face. ¡°Comply with his demands, young lady. It¡¯ll save you a lot of pain, trust me,¡± the doctor whispered in her ear and then bowed to her.


    Remnya clenched her teeth and trotted to match Ronner¡¯s pace.


    They stepped into an elevator at the end of the passage. Remnya stood by his side with her arms folded and her lips quivering.


    A mechanical buzz resounded in her ears as the steel floor went up.


    Walking out on the surface, she realized the elevator had taken them back to the mansion, right into one of the restrooms. How come she had never seen it before? Remnya wondered, but then realized how the elevator¡¯s doors disappeared behind a massive bookshelf.


    ¡°How is Magenta doing?¡± Remnya asked, following Ronner toward the second floor.


    ¡°She¡¯s doing well,¡± he replied. ¡°If you are good, I¡¯ll take you to see her soon.¡±


    The walk through the corridors was brief; Ronner stopped in front of a wide door. ¡°Since your old room got burned to ashes, I found you a better one,¡± he said with a smile and opened the door. Remnya widened her eyes as she saw all her belongings carefully ordered in that massive room. ¡°And, of course, I made sure to move everything here before you destroyed it.¡±


    Remnya frowned and bolted into the room before Ronner could invite her. A warm relief filled her heart when she found Zeo and Marcus¡¯ presents there. She rushed to grab her doll, which was sitting on her new nightstand; it still smelled like Zeo¡¯s perfume.


    ¡°As you can see, I¡¯m not as bad as you want to think.¡± Ronner winked at her.


    Remnya scowled at him. ¡°Is it true that Orena and Ellyn died?¡± she asked, squeezing her doll between her arms.


    ¡°Orena is as good as dead, yes. But Ellyn is alive, as far as I know.¡±


    ¡°I see . . . ¡° Remnya glanced at the moon stalking her from behind her new windows that covered half of her south wall.


    ¡°Any other question?¡±


    ¡°Where¡¯s Marcus?¡±


    ¡°Marcus . . . ¡° Ronner took his time to chew her question and then smiled at her. ¡°He¡¯s left the city with his daughter.¡±


    A weak smile drew across Remnya¡¯s face. ¡°I¡¯m glad.¡±


    ¡°Well,¡± Ronner walked up to her and ruffled her hair with odd tenderness. ¡°I¡¯ll take my leave now. Enjoy your new room, Rem.¡± He beamed at her and started toward the door. He disappeared, but his presence lingered in every corner.


    Remnya stood still, tears welling in her eyes as merciless silence hugged her with its gelid arms. She tightened her grasp on her doll and let out a muffled whimper, her whole body trembling.


    In the end, no matter how strong she tried to be or how hard she tried to hold back her tears. Remnya understood she was still just a child.


    Zeo . . . Marcus . . . Where are you?


    I feel alone . . .


    And I¡¯m scared . . .


    *¡ã*¡ã*

 23: A Dying Moon

    Zeo


    The clock announced midnight while the crescent moon peeked at Zeo from behind his window, bathing his dim room with a yellow glow. He waited on his bed, his belongings packed by his feet. That night would define the fate of many; he had to succeed for Remnya''s sake.


    If everything went as planned, he would be out of the mansion soon and on his own to find the last hope.


    Despite the circumstances, his heart was calm, and his mind focused on a single goal. Perhaps all those years of pain had numbed his senses, or perhaps it was just the sheer will to protect his best friend. Zeo didn''t know and didn''t care. He would face any consequence that night.


    Maria came for him as promised, gracious and elegant as usual. Her presence caused Zeo''s heart to pump like crazy as all the accumulated tension had unleashed on him at once. Yet, he did his best to show confidence while she explained the details of his mission.


    Brisa would take care of Ronner, and since Viper was out taking care of his father''s business, their main concern was Skado. However, he didn''t know the mansion as well as Maria, and she knew how to delay him along with the rest of his men.


    Once outside, Zeo had to find Marcus'' car, located in a garage three blocks away from the mansion. He had left it there on his last night. Only Magenta knew about it, and now, Maria and Zeo too. Lastly, the maid gave him a fake ID and a car license in case the police stopped him. The rest was Zeo''s job.


    "Are you okay?" Maria asked, staring at him with concerned eyes.


    "Yes!" Zeo rushed to answer through the knot in his throat. His hands and feet were soaked with cold sweat. The weight of everyone''s hopes rested on his shoulders. But that was his choice, and he smiled, thinking about what Remnya would say if she knew.


    He took a deep breath and pushed his concerns deep into a corner of his soul. There was no place for hesitation anymore.


    "Thank you, Maria," he muttered, narrowing his eyes at her.


    Maria beamed at him. "Thank you too, Zeo. You''re brave."


    Zeo froze for a moment, trying to digest her words. She was the third person in his life to call him brave. His face heated up, turning red like a tomato. Was it because her words meant the world to him? Or was it because she was, after Remnya, the cutest girl he had ever seen? Zeo didn''t know, but his confidence reached the sky.


    "I am ready," he said firmly, puffing his chest and tightening the grasp on his bag. That was his night, and he would succeed.


    Zeo followed Maria through the tenderly illuminated hallways. Her sweet perfume caressed his nose. He couldn''t help but admire her mesmerizing figure as she strolled ahead of him. However, there was no time for trivial things. He shook his dumb thoughts away and focused on the task at hand.


    Everything seemed to go as planned as they crossed the last hall and reached the back garden. A cobblestone walkway accompanied by a line of fancy lampposts separated Zeo from his goal.


    They waited, the song of crickets hammering in Zeo''s ears.


    The lights turned off.


    Maria nodded at him and took the first step into the darkness. Zeo followed her.


    Adrenaline raced through his veins like electricity, threatening to stop his heart.


    The distance seemed to grow larger with each step.


    When they were halfway, Zeo became suspicious and questioned the situation in his mind. Why would Ronner disregard that part of the mansion? Was he being overconfident? Or were they walking into a trap?


    "Maria, wait!" he whispered, and driven by his instincts, grabbed her hand. "Let''s hide!"


    She didn''t argue his suggestion and hid with him behind the bushes. They observed the garden in silence. A warm breeze whistled through the trees while the moon rose over the mansion. Zeo thought he was overreacting, but sharp footsteps spreading throughout the garden made him shiver.


    Skado strolled through the garden with both hands in his pockets.


    From the opposite side, two men walked in his direction.


    Maria let out a silent gasp. "What are they doing here?" she whispered, her eyes flickering with fear.


    "Did you see her?" Skado asked.


    "No, sir. We''ve been guarding the gates all night, but nothing," a bodyguard, called Belo, replied. He was a huge, broad man with dark skin and long reddish hair.


    "This can''t be . . . " Maria murmured, her face pale like a ghost. "How did they know?"


    Skado paced across the garden while his men rushed to slash every bush and vine resembling a hiding spot. Zeo gulped and tightened his lips. If they already knew about their plans, that was their last and only chance.


    Maria held her head in both hands and kneeled on the moist soil. It was a matter of time before they found them.


    "Maria," Zeo said, fixing his eyes on Skado, who shot glares at every corner. "How long would it take us to reach the gates?"


    "I don''t know . . . " Maria stuttered. "Less than one minute, probably."


    "How long would it take me to reach Marcus'' car?"


    "Why are you asking me this, Zeo . . . They''ll find us!" Her voice cracked, defeat spreading across her face.


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    "How long?" Zeo narrowed his eyes at her and grabbed her cold hand.


    She stared at him, tears welling up in her eyes. "One minute or less . . . Leaving the mansion and reaching the car, all of it would take us less than one minute." A tear trailed down her cheek. "Yet, we can''t even do that. There''s no time!"


    Zeo locked his eyes on the ground and observed two White Fangs blooming beneath his knees; their scent mixed with Maria''s soft perfume tickled his nose. He stroked the petals, and an odd peace filled his body.


    He regretted never giving Remnya flowers.


    Zeo took off his backpack and handed it to Maria, who looked at him with confusion. "What are you doing?" she mumbled.


    Standing, he smiled at her. "After thinking it for a while, I concluded this was the only way to keep our hope alive." A soft breeze brushed Zeo''s bangs. "I''ll distract them and buy time for you to leave the mansion."


    "What? Are you insane?" Maria sprang from the ground and placed her hands on Zeo''s shoulders. "You have no idea what they could do to you! We can still find a way. Perhaps, if I explain the situation to them, they''ll let you go unharmed!"


    "No." Zeo''s green eyes gleamed when the moon reflected on his gaze. "They''ll do terrible things to you, they already know your intentions." Zeo glanced at Skado, who cursed and commanded his men to find them. He remembered that man''s sick plans for Maria and clenched his fists. "It''s just a matter of time until he decides to lay his hands on you."


    "Zeo, you can''t be serious! They might kill you!" She raised her voice.


    "They won''t." Zeo grinned. "They need me alive."


    "They''ll torture you . . . "


    Zeo took a moment to digest her words and stared up at the sky. The moon looked back at him as the gold eye of the night said goodbye.


    "There are two letters in my backpack. One is for Rem, the other for Debrin Kavram." Zeo straightened his back. He looked like a giant. "Take care, Maria. You can do it." His voice was soft but cut through the air like a sharp knife. Maria stared up at him, tears in her eyes and out of words.


    "Oh, by the way, Maria." Zeo chuckled. "You''re beautiful." He gifted her a last smile.


    "Zeo-" Maria tried to speak, but Zeo bolted out of the bushes like a bullet, thorns stung his skin, but he advanced like a stallion toward his fate.


    "Excuse me, sir!" Zeo shouted at Skado and his men. "I was looking for the bathroom. Can you tell me where it is?"


    Maria''s eyes welled up with unshed tears. She hesitated for a second, but Zeo had passed his flame to her. She had to keep it burning, no matter what.


    "Zeo . . . You are . . . " Maria swallowed her tears and ran. She ran with all her strength toward the gates.


    Skado fixed his lifeless eyes on Zeo as he walked up to him. "Where is the bitch?" He buried his fingers in Zeo''s shoulder.


    "I don''t know what you''re talking about, sir." Zeo grinned, holding back his will to writhe in pain.


    "Fucking kid!" Skado seized his neck. "I''ll open your threat if you don''t tell me!"


    Zeo grabbed Skado''s wrists and muttered, feeling the pressure in his throat. "I don''t know what you are talk¡ª"


    Before Zeo could finish his sentence, Skado lifted him by the neck, covering the moon with his body. "You have a death wish, fucking Anglish?"


    Zeo let out a muffled grunt and lowered his gaze to face that monster. "I know nothing, sir," Zeo mumbled, forcing a painful smile.


    *¡ã*¡ã*


    Skado''s eyes reddened with anger. He squeezed Zeo''s neck, burying his fingers in his skin. Blood flowed through his knuckles, dripping on his shoes.


    Zeo groaned in pain. Unable to breathe or swallow, oxygen began to leave his brain.


    "Sir, please! We can''t kill the boy yet!" Belo reminded him, leaning a hesitant hand on Skado''s shoulder.


    Skado growled and smashed Zeo''s body against the ground. Zeo let out a deep gasp for air and coughed, writhing on the grass.


    "Sir! We could not find the maid anywhere!" Another man shouted as he sprinted in their direction. His name was Trace.


    "Shit!" Skado roared.


    Zeo lifted his eyes at the men surrounding him. Skado, Belo, and Trace. The monster and his minions, all together. Zeo reached for his pocket and grabbed a device he had been working on for the past few days.


    "I''ll tell you where Maria is!" Zeo shouted, staggering to stand up.


    All the eyes darted at him. "Speak now, kid! Your life depends on it!" Belo rushed to say before Skado changed his mind.


    "Yes, sir." Zeo smirked, drawing the device out of his pocket. "I''ll tell you everything." He activated the device and hurled it at Skado''s face.


    It exploded into a massive smoke cloud that engulfed the whole place.


    Everyone began coughing uncontrollably. Zeo dragged himself away from the smoke but felt his lungs and eyes burning and his throat falling apart. It was the effect he wanted.


    Skado shouted curses between coughs and leaped away from the smoke while Trace and Belo curled their bodies, unable to breathe.


    A caravan of servants came searching for Maria.


    "Sir!" a young butler called with a trembling voice. Skado glanced over his shoulder at him. "She''s escaped!"


    "What the hell you talking about?" Skado''s expression turned into a tempest.


    "She''s not in her room, or anywhere in the mansion, and . . . " The young man gulped. "Our registers tell us someone activated the back gates!"


    Skado''s glare swept the garden, piercing through his men''s souls. "Useless pieces of shit!" he bellowed and slapped the young man across the face. The hit sent him flying unconscious against a tree.


    Refusing to accept the truth, Skado sprinted toward the back gates with unstoppable fury.


    Zeo coughed as he leaned on an old oak tree, waiting for his punishment. Despite the circumstances, his heart was at peace. Maria had to be safe by now and on her way to save Remnya. Nothing else mattered.


    Silence cut through the air.


    Skado returned, his eyes spitting fire while veins full of hatred wrinkled his face. "All this . . . " he murmured between teeth. "All this . . . " He loomed over Zeo. His body reeked of death. "All this is your fault, fucking Anglish!" He kicked Zeo in the chest with such force his body crushed the tree behind him.


    Zeo dropped to the ground, unable to feel half of his body. He tried to sit back up, but his arms felt like noodles and bent under his own weight. He groaned when an electric pain traveled throughout his chest; his ribs had broken. Zeo curled up and gasped for air.


    "Fucking Anglish!" Skado shouted, lifting Zeo by the neck. "I can''t believe an insignificant cunt like you could fool us like this." Skado laughed, gritting his teeth. His eyes looked like two black holes in the darkness.


    Zeo never looked away. He faced the monster in front of him with bravery.


    "Well done, Anglish, well done . . . " Skado slid his hand under his suit and drew a silver knife and then placed it against Zeo''s throat.


    Trace grabbed Skado''s wrist. "Sir, please, you can''t do this! Mr. Ronner will-"


    Before he could finish his sentence, and without taking his eyes away from Zeo, Skado sliced Trace''s throat in a quick swift. The man dropped to his knees, holding his neck while blood and life gushed out of his body.


    "An inferior being like you, fooling a Nephilim like me. Unforgivable . . . " He took a deep breath and unleashed a thunder across the garden, "UNFORGIVABLE!"


    Skado spun the knife in his hand until the metal aimed at Zeo.


    A violent thrust.


    His knife pierced through Zeo''s chest.


    Zeo let out a silent gasp, and his body froze. No pain, only numbness.


    A crimson stream erupted from his mouth and chest, rolling down his stomach and darkening his white shirt.


    Skado yanked the knife away, allowing a shower of blood to bathe his face and body. He opened his other hand, releasing Zeo from his grasp.


    Zeo dropped to the ground like a flesh doll and let out a muffled squeal.


    A crimson pond grew beneath him. His hands twitched as his eyes fixed on the dark sky.


    Gelid but gentle arms hugged his body, assuring him everything was ok. It was like a tender winter embracing his soul.


    He felt sleepy.


    Zeo glanced at his side and saw Remnya, who watched him with an expressionless face. I wonder what she''s thinking? Zeo tried to tell her something, but only a red mist came out of his mouth.


    Before the cold breeze put him to sleep, Zeo regarded his dear friend with a tender smile, and Remnya smiled back at him. That''s all he wanted, seeing her smile once again.


    I''m going to miss you . . .


    Be strong, Rem . . .


    I love you . . .


    *¡ã*¡ã*

 24: The Taste Of Iron

    Brisa


    Silence lingered in the great hall. Its tall crystal windows were wide open, allowing a gentle breeze to caress Brisa¡¯s hair. Her eyes locked on the courtyard and the dying moon. Did Maria make it?


    A heavy arm wrapped around her. Ronner stood still by her side with his gaze locked on her. He seemed to analyze her slightest movements. If the rumors were true, he could read people¡¯s thoughts and drill into their brains. Ronner caressed her face and brushed her bangs with odd tenderness. He had been too silent.


    Brisa was stiff, trying her best not to shake or shiver. He kissed her cheek and sniffed her hair. His fingers trembled on her waist as if trying not to dig his claws into her skin and rip her clothes apart. It had been weeks since the last time he had forced her to do his will.


    The big doors slammed open when Belo stormed into the hall, his face devoid of color.


    ¡°Sir! I apologize for interrupting you, but this is urgent!¡± he shouted, standing upright near his eyesight, the closest he would dare to be.


    ¡°The hell you want?¡± Ronner asked in a monotonous tone, without taking his eyes away from Brisa.


    ¡°I don¡¯t know how to explain this, but¡ª¡±


    ¡°Hold your tongue, motherfucker!¡± Skado yelled as he broke into the room, his suit covered in fresh blood. ¡°I have bad news for you, Ronner.¡±


    Brisa¡¯s heart skipped a beat, fearing the worst. Ronner released her and turned to face Persen¡¯s son.


    ¡°The fucking maid escaped, and . . . ¡° Skado clenched his fists and let out a grunt.


    Ronner fixed his eyes on Skado and walked toward him, tilting his head as he tried to read through his soul. ¡°And what?¡±


    Skado didn¡¯t say a word until Ronner stood right in front of his face.


    ¡°The Anglish boy is dead,¡± Skado said, his face hard as stone.


    Ronner blinked. He turned to look at Brisa as if searching for answers, and then his eyes locked on the marble floor. He rubbed his chin and scratched his head. ¡°Did you kill the boy?¡± he asked, his voice dancing with tension.


    ¡°Yes.¡± Skado nodded with a scowl.


    Ronner¡¯s eyes darted at Skado like arrows. ¡°Why?¡±


    ¡°He delayed us with his stupid antics, causing the maid to escape.¡± Skado¡¯s voice filled with contempt. ¡°The fucking kid deserved it!¡±


    ¡°I see,¡± Ronner said with a calmness that sliced the air. He smiled and brushed his hair backward. He began pacing through the hall, his expression unreadable.


    Finally, he came to a halt in front of Skado. ¡°So, Zeo is dead.¡±


    ¡°It doesn¡¯t ma¡ª¡± Skado began.


    But Ronner¡¯s fist smashed into his face.


    The powerful impact released a shockwave, shattering the crystal windows, and sent Skado flying like a bullet against the wall. His body penetrated the concrete, causing the wall to collapse on him like a domino.


    ¡°Fucking idiot! Are you stupid, motherfucker?¡± Ronner bellowed, his voice resounding throughout the hall like an angry lion roar.


    When Skado tried to sit up, Ronner charged at him. He jumped and landed on his stomach with his knee, and then another fist met Skado¡¯s jaw.


    He landed two more punches until Skado stopped the third. He spat blood at Ronner¡¯s eyes and retaliated with an uppercut. The blow stunned Ronner for a second, and Skado tried to get up.


    Blinded, Ronner used his head like a hammer and struck Skado¡¯s nose, crushing his bridge.


    Skado missed a punch at his face, giving Ronner an opening for a heavy jab that crushed Skado¡¯s mouth. A tooth flew away with a torrent of thick blood that bathed the floor.


    Skado answered with a knee strike to Ronner¡¯s groin and a hard punch to his cheekbone.


    Ronner didn¡¯t let go of Skado. He was like a vicious beast trying to tear his prey apart. He didn¡¯t seem to feel pain anymore. Blinded by raw instincts, Ronner buried his fangs in Skado¡¯s neck, penetrating his muscles. Skado let out a grunt of pain. The first one anyone had ever heard.


    Skado scratched Ronner¡¯s face, trying to reach for his neck to choke him or stab one of his eyes, but failed miserably. Instead, Ronner shoved his thumbs into Skado¡¯s eye sockets and pushed forward.


    Skado screamed and desperately tried to shove Ronner away with all his strength.


    His eyes began to bleed, slowly crushed, and a smirk drew across Ronner¡¯s face.


    Viper wrapped his arms around Ronner from behind and yanked him off his younger brother. However, he struggled to hold that unleashed monster.


    Ronner headbutted him, opening a cut on Viper¡¯s forehead, and bent over, catapulting the Doman brother against the wall, which collapsed by the impact.


    ¡°Ronner, please!¡± Brisa shouted when Ronner¡¯s fists began glowing and spitting cobalt sparks. She was shaking, with tears welling up in her eyes.


    Ronner froze and glanced at her over his shoulder. His face, eyes, and hair were soaked in thick warm blood. His suit was a ragged thread around his exposed chest, where multiple lines flowed with red.


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    Viper helped his brother to sit up and glared at Ronner.


    Ronner pointed at Skado and roared, ¡°I should fucking kill you, you stupid inbred bastard.¡± He turned to Viper. ¡°The next time, I¡¯ll bathe myself with your fucking brother¡¯s entrails. First and last mistake! Do you hear me?¡±


    ¡°Are you really gonna threaten us, Ronner?¡± Viper asked, standing upright with his chest puffed forward.


    ¡°No, this is not a threat. This is a warning, stupid cunt!¡± Ronner wiped the blood from his mouth and spat on the floor beside Skado¡¯s feet.


    Skado chuckled as he staggered, trying to stand up, aided by his brother. ¡°You need us, asshole.¡±


    ¡°Last mistake,¡± Ronner said, his voice calm, but his eyes dismembered his soul. He whirled to face Brisa, who stared at him and trembled like a leaf.


    He sauntered toward her, panting as the fury flowed out of his body. Ronner locked his red and blue eyes on her. The stench of blood and sweat sent shivers down her spine. ¡°You didn¡¯t betray me, did you?¡± he asked calmly.


    Brisa took a deep breath and shook her head. She had never felt death so close.


    ¡°Good . . . ¡° Ronner smiled and strutted to the door. He removed his remaining clothes and used them to wipe his face.


    Brisa watched him disappear, wondering how she would tell Remnya about her dear friend.


    *¡ã*¡ã*


    A tender moon cried over the garden, the last witness to an unnecessary crime. Brisa brushed the crystal windows with frozen fingers and stared into the darkness, knowing what lay ahead. She barely knew the boy. She didn¡¯t even know his voice, but thinking about Remnya¡¯s reaction crushed her heart.


    ¡°You don¡¯t have to see this,¡± Belo said, standing by her side.


    Brisa swallowed, her throat closed with a knot. She knew it. He had saved Maria and given her and everyone a dim light of hope. The least she could do was make sure the boy had a dignified farewell. He would¡¯ve loved to be with Remnya for the last time, even if his eyes had shut forever.


    She took the first step, and Belo followed her.


    A chilly wind brushed her long black hair, tangling over her wet eyes. She was alone that night; the man accompanying her was just a shadow. It felt like an endless walk until she caught a glimpse of the scene.


    Her heels slowed, and her steps hesitated, but she kept going forward. The time stopped when she halted before the young boy.


    There he lay on a pond of darkened blood, white as a ghost, quiet as a statue. A sprinkle of moon sparked on his still-open green eyes. Unable to hold back her tears, she crouched next to Zeo and touched his rigid, cold hand.


    This will destroy Remnya . . .


    Why God? Why is it always the innocent who suffer the most?


    Brisa gestured at Belo to leave, and alone, she wept in silence, holding his hand with all her strength.


    ¡°Zeo, was it?¡± Brisa whispered between sobs. ¡°I know it¡¯s not much, but I promise you . . . I¡¯ll make sure to get Remnya out of here.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s a promise, Zeo.¡±


    She stared up at the sky. The moon faded behind the mansion, leaving a trail of gold above the stars.


    For a moment, she believed Zeo¡¯s hand twitched, but of course, it was her mind playing nasty tricks on her.


    Silence.


    It happened again.


    His hand twitched under the pressure of her fingers.


    Brisa widened her glistening eyes and stared at Zeo¡¯s expressionless face. No way . . . She leaned closer and rested her right ear on his blood-stained chest, where a deep slit had dried up.


    No sound.


    She closed her eyes, trying to stop the raging stream from flowing from her eyes.


    A beat.


    Brisa froze.


    ¡°What is this?¡± she murmured. ¡°This can¡¯t be . . . ¡°


    Another beat.


    He was dead; no way it was his heart. But then, the beats continued, steadier and stronger. Brisa sat up, scanning Zeo¡¯s face in search of any trace of life, but he was stiff, his eyes blank and motionless.


    ¡°Zeo . . . ¡° She sniffled. ¡°Are you still clinging to life?¡±


    An explosion shook the ground under her feet.


    Brisa heard a screech so intense and brutal it made the night shiver.


    Zeo let out a deep gasp.


    Brisa flinched away, dropping on the soil with her widened eyes locked on Zeo. He gasped for air and coughed while blood erupted from his mouth and nose.


    He groaned, twitched, and cried as his skin recovered its colors.


    ¡°He¡¯s alive!¡± Brisa screamed, full of terror and relief. ¡°He¡¯s alive! He¡¯s alive!¡±


    Belo sprinted toward her. ¡°No way!¡± he shouted, halting over Zeo and resting his head on his chest.


    ¡°Hurry! Take him to the doctors now! We can still save him!¡± Brisa ordered and helped Belo to lift Zeo¡¯s convulsing body.


    Brisa ran as fast as she could, trying to match Belo¡¯s pace as he carried the boy. Her heart and legs burned. She felt like fainting but never stopped. Was that a crazy dream or nightmare?


    It didn¡¯t matter. Brisa had to see him alive. She couldn¡¯t lose him again.


    *¡ã*¡ã*


    Brisa sat in the waiting room of the mansion¡¯s hospital, shaking like a leaf, her black dress stained with red. She prayed in silence, glancing at the emergency room every second. The minutes felt like hours.


    The door opened, and Ronner stepped out of the room, his face still bruised with stripes of darkened blood. He sauntered over to Brisa and pulled her off her seat by the arms. He hugged her and stared deep into her eyes.


    Brisa¡¯s lips quivered as she scanned his face in search of answers.


    He caressed her face and asked, ¡°Do you believe in miracles?¡±


    Brisa didn¡¯t have the words to reply. She froze under his gelid gaze.


    ¡°Well, they do exist.¡± He kissed her cheek and smirked. ¡°The Anglish boy is alive!¡±


    Her eyes flooded as she let out a whimper, and a painful smile drew across her face. ¡°How?¡± she mumbled between teeth.


    Ronner shrugged. ¡°He should be dead. Skado tore his heart and lungs apart. Yet, his regenerative capabilities are beyond our comprehension. I had believed he was a failure, a simple hybrid with no talent, but.¡± His smile grew wider. ¡°His Anglish nature has woken up! This is magnificent!¡±


    Brisa¡¯s brief joy quickly faded, giving way to her worst fears. His words only meant one thing, another subject for his sick goals. ¡°You seem happier than ever . . . ¡° she whispered.


    ¡°I am! Not only Remnya with her crimson fire. Zeo is special too!¡±


    ¡°What can an Anglish do?¡± Brisa squirmed in his arms.


    ¡°Regeneration, telekinesis, air manipulation, those are just some of their potential abilities.¡± His heavy eyes melted her hopes. ¡°He¡¯s an oddity. Such skills only develop in pure Anglishes. This is the first time I know of a hybrid with such power.¡±


    ¡°So, what are your plans for the boy?¡± Brisa was terrified of the answer.


    ¡°Initially, I just wanted to use him to force Remnya to cooperate and awaken her power, but with this, I believe he¡¯ll be useful to create Netomic cells.¡±


    ¡°Netomic? What is that?¡±


    ¡°You see, Netomics are cells created from the blood of certain organisms, such as Nephilims. Once developed, they are injected into someone¡¯s body to enhance his natural abilities.¡± Ronner squeezed her waist and pulled her against him. ¡°Whose body do you think that will be?¡±


    Brisa lowered her gaze and shook her head.


    Ronner giggled. ¡°With Remnya¡¯s help, Sagan will finish developing the first batch of Netomics, and once that happens, I¡¯ll go through the first process of enhancement.¡± He stared at his hand as if marveling at his own skin.


    An intrusive thought filled Brisa¡¯s head. She wondered if there was the slightest chance he died in the process, but then she realized there were two more monsters: Viper and Skado.


    Before he could read her thoughts, she rushed to fake a smile and said, ¡°I¡¯m glad for you, Ron.¡±


    Ronner tilted his head and beamed at her. ¡°The future is shining for us, Bris. I¡¯ll be the greatest warrior on earth, and you . . . ¡° He held his soft face between his hands. ¡°You¡¯ll be the lady who stands by my side on my journey. You¡¯re my lucky charm!¡±


    His words made her shiver, but a strange feeling hastened her heart. She would never forget how much he had hurt her. However, he sounded so honest, she felt even more terrified.


    ¡°Ron . . . what do you want from me now?¡± she asked, wiping her last tears.


    ¡°You¡¯ll be the new lady of this mansion,¡± Ronner said casually, his voice soft like a feather on her skin. ¡°I¡¯ve decided it. You¡¯ll be my wife.¡±


    *¡ã*¡ã*

 25: Tomorrow

    Zeo


    Unknown voices echoed in the distance, unintelligible words drilling into his head. Zeo felt like floating on a gelid river of dark waters as dense as blood. The current dragged him somewhere, far away. A metallic flavor lingered in his mouth, making him dizzy.


    Every time he began to doze off, an electric shock awakened him, sending excruciating pain throughout his body. Zeo tried to scream, but his voice was a wordless cry no one would ever hear.


    Zeo . . .


    He recognized that sweet voice.


    Zeo . . .


    Yeah, it was her.


    A flash before his eyes and the horrible pain crushing his chest woke him up. He gasped for air with all his remaining strength. Everything was dazzling white. His whole body burned as if dipped in acid, he could feel his skin melting and his eyes falling apart.


    Everything turned into silent darkness again.


    Isolated events from the past wandered his mind like ghosts, but the only vivid memory hammering his brain was her.


    ¡°Remnya . . . ¡° Zeo mumbled with his eyes still shut.


    ¡°Zeo?¡±


    He recognized that voice, the same sweet voice from before, the same strong accent from always. Zeo felt warm fingers wrapping around his hand. He tried to squeeze them but couldn¡¯t. Instead, he whispered again, ¡°Remnya?¡±


    Zeo felt a warm body bumping into him as strong arms wrapped around his torso. He recognized her lemon-vanilla perfume and the strawberry shampoo fragrance of her hair.


    He finally opened his heavy eyes and saw her black hair tangled around him. Zeo heard her sobs, sobs he hadn¡¯t heard in years.


    Remnya was hugging him so hard he could feel his bones cracking, but Zeo didn¡¯t care. Tears rolled down his cheeks uncontrollably, and his body recovered some of its strength. Zeo wrapped his arms around Remnya and cried with her.


    Nothing else mattered; she was in his arms again. It was only them in the world.


    ¡°Rem . . . ¡° Zeo whispered in her ear. ¡°Why are you crying?¡±


    ¡°Dumb idiot!¡± she yelled. ¡°I thought you were dead!¡±


    ¡°I would never leave without saying goodbye, Rem.¡±


    Zeo felt her hot tears soaking his shoulder. He didn¡¯t want to let her go, ever, but reality slapped him across the face, reminding him of what this second chance meant for him.


    ¡°Rem,¡± he murmured, caressing her back and silky hair. How he wished that moment lasted forever, but he had something to do. ¡°We need to talk, Rem.¡±


    ¡°Yes . . . we do,¡± Remnya replied between sobs and sniffles and then released his body.


    Finally, Zeo could see her face. Remnya was a mess of tears, her eyes and nose red like a tomato, and her hair tangled and glued to her wet cheeks. Zeo smiled so much that his jaw hurt like hell.


    Remnya rushed to wipe her tears and brushed her hair off her face. It was such an odd sight. Zeo thought he would never see her tears again. It had been so long. Immense guilt crushed his weakened heart.


    ¡°I¡¯m sorry, Rem . . . ¡° he said, lowering his face and narrowing his eyes. ¡°I couldn¡¯t do anything to protect you.¡±


    Remnya shook her head eagerly. ¡°No, no! It¡¯s my fault! I should¡¯ve gone with you when you told me! I was stupid! I¡¯m sorry!¡± Tears rolled down her cheeks like a raging stream.


    ¡°No, it¡¯s not your fault . . . It¡¯s their fault.¡± Zeo caressed her face and wiped her tears with a gentle touch. ¡°But it¡¯s not over yet. I¡¯m gonna get you out of here, Rem.¡± His eyes lit up with fire.


    Remnya gave him a concerned look and pouted. ¡°I heard what you did, Brisa told me.¡±


    Zeo looked away and clenched his fists.


    ¡°I want to punch you so bad, jerk!¡± she yelled.


    Zeo wanted to punch himself too. Trying to save her had made her cry. Unforgivable. ¡°You know why I did it?¡± he asked as a tear threatened to escape his eye.


    ¡°You wanted to save me . . . I know, but¡ª¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s because I love you!¡± Zeo raised his voice, narrowing his eyes as his pupils connected with her beautiful crimson orbs.


    Remnya froze and stared at him as if trying to recognize the shy boy from the orphanage. ¡°I-Uh . . . ¡° Remnya stuttered and hid half of her face under a strand of hair.


    Zeo laughed and grabbed her hand. She didn¡¯t react. ¡°When I was lying on the ground, and life began to leave my body, I could only think of you.¡± He squeezed her soft hand. ¡°And you know, what hurt me the most wasn¡¯t the pain. It was knowing I¡¯d never have the chance to tell you are the most important thing in my life.¡±


    Remnya¡¯s jaw dropped slowly, and her face reddened. Her lips quivered as she tried to say something, but no word dared to come out.


    ¡°I promised that if I had one more chance, just one more chance . . . ¡° He beamed at her. ¡°I¡¯d let you know how much I love you.¡±


    A deep silence.


    ¡°Idiot . . . ¡° Remnya muttered, her gaze locked on the floor and her hair covering her face. ¡°Zeo, you . . . ¡°


    ¡°What?¡± Zeo tilted his head.


    ¡°You are a stupid idiot, Zeo!¡± Remnya yelled, her eyes spitting fire. She snatched her hand away from him and darted toward the door.


    Zeo blinked, trying to process her reaction, his mouth wide open.


    Remnya halted, her hand trembling on the doorknob. She grumbled and slammed her feet on the floor. ¡°I should punch you!¡±


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    Zeo stifled a chuckle. ¡°Yes, you should.¡± He tried to sit up, but an acute pain resembling a knife through his chest made him groan in pain.


    Remnya whirled and rushed back to his side, a deep scowl on her face. He giggled, trying to hide the intense pain revolting in his flesh.


    ¡°I¡¯m sorry, Rem . . . ¡°


    ¡°Shut up!¡± Remnya snapped and smacked his hand. She curled her lips, hesitated for a moment, and then reached out for his face; Zeo felt like melting at her gentle touch. Her angry face softened a little. ¡°We¡¯re too young for that, dumb four-eyes.¡±


    ¡°For what?¡± Zeo stifled a chuckle. ¡°I¡¯m not asking anything, Rem.¡± He regarded her with a tender smile. ¡°I¡¯ll get you out of here. That¡¯s all I know.¡±


    ¡°By risking your life again? Dumbass!¡± She smacked his forehead.


    He ignored the pain. ¡°If I need to¡ª¡±


    ¡°I want you alive!¡± Remnya leaned closer as she glared at him. ¡°If you die, who will be by my side, uh?¡±


    Zeo was suddenly out of words.


    ¡°I¡¯ll get you out of here too!¡± Remnya shouted, clenching her fists. ¡°I have a power, and I¡¯ll use it!¡±


    ¡°Rem . . . Are you talking about your fire?¡±


    Remnya narrowed her eyes and nodded. ¡°If I can control it, no one is gonna stop me!¡± A smile forced its way across her face.


    Zeo wished he could share her joy. ¡°It¡¯s too dangerous. You could be risking your life!¡±


    ¡°Then, so be it.¡± She glared at him. ¡°You risked your life, didn¡¯t you? Yet, here you are.¡± Remnya smirked. ¡°We¡¯re not that easy to kill, Zeo.¡±


    He let out a silent sigh. ¡°I know I can¡¯t stop you, but please, don¡¯t do anything reckless. If anything bad happens to you, I¡ª¡±


    ¡°I will be fine, I promise.¡± She messed up his hair. ¡°You know I never break my promises.¡±


    A smile drew across Zeo¡¯s face. ¡°We will do it together then.¡±


    ¡°Together.¡± She grabbed his hand tightly and gazed deep into his eyes.


    They remained silent for a moment, whispering her thoughts to each other. Zeo had a sudden urge to lean closer to her face but didn¡¯t dare. He just stared at her, cherishing the moment, loving her close to him.


    ¡°We do not have much time left . . . ¡° Remnya lowered her gaze. ¡°Ronner won¡¯t allow me to see you often, so I don¡¯t know when we will meet again.¡±


    He caressed her cheek and lifted her face to stare into her eyes. ¡°Doesn¡¯t matter. Once I get you out of here, we¡¯ll have plenty of time to explore this city together.¡±


    Remnya bobbed her head and regarded him with a sweet smile that melted Zeo¡¯s concerns for an ephemeral moment. He ignored the terrible pain and leaned closer to her, closing his eyes, but Remnya put her index finger on his nose, stopping him while she shook her head.


    ¡°What are you doing, you silly?¡± Remnya smirked and pinched his nose.


    ¡°Sorry. I just wanted to see your cute face up close.¡± His words flowed fearlessly.


    Remnya stifled a giggle. ¡°Don¡¯t die, and when everything is over, you¡¯ll be able to see this ugly face more often.¡±


    ¡°Another promise?¡± Zeo asked. His pain had disappeared.


    ¡°Promise.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ll live until then.¡±


    *¡ã*¡ã*


    Remnya


    It was a muggy evening. Orange and gray clouds threatened to unleash a flood, but Remnya didn¡¯t care. She strode through the garden, carrying two bottles under her arms. Brisa followed her, shaking her head as concern flickered in her eyes.


    They stopped at the southernmost part of the mansion, meters before a massive wall protected by electric barbed wires and a sophisticated alarm system. There was no grass or trees nearby, the perfect place for Remnya¡¯s experiment.


    ¡°This is a terrible idea, you know?¡± Brisa said, putting her hands on her hips. ¡°And why do I have to help with such madness?¡±


    ¡°Because . . . ¡° Remnya opened a bottle and poured a blue liquid on the dry soil, drawing a circle around her. ¡°You¡¯re my friend, aren¡¯t you?¡±


    Brisa rolled her eyes and then covered her nose, grimacing at the reek of gasoline. ¡°Where did you get that anyway?¡±


    ¡°Harry, the mechanic, got it for me.¡± Remnya smiled at her. ¡°He took it from Belo¡¯s car.¡±


    ¡°Even if you claim you¡¯re immune to fire, this is too dangerous!¡± The color on Brisa¡¯s face slowly disappeared as she observed Remnya lighting up a match.


    ¡°Trust me, fire can not hurt me.¡± Remnya smirked and gestured for Brisa to step away. ¡°No matter how scary it looks, do not try to put out the fire, ok?¡±


    Brisa tightened her lips and nodded slowly, sweat forming on her forehead.


    Remnya dropped the match to the ground, and a massive orange blast engulfed her body. The intense heat made Brisa flinch and grab a hose lying nearby.


    ¡°Don¡¯t!¡± Remnya shouted as her clothes fell apart into glowing threads. Flames hugged her body and brushed her hair with flickering fingers. She closed her eyes and focused on the warm sensation traveling through her body. Remnya stood still, breathing in the heat and tasting the flames.


    I gotta be one with the fire . . .


    Brisa¡¯s legs trembled as the blaze reflected on her dilated eyes, her mouth wide open.


    The fire began to die, and Remnya reached out for the next bottle, forgetting for a moment how physics worked. When she touched the bottle, the heat from her hands melted the plastic, causing the gasoline to blow up in her face into a massive fireball. The explosion stunned her and sent her flying backward. She dropped to the ground like a human torch.


    ¡°Remnya!¡± Brisa shouted, running toward her, but the heat made her halt one meter away from the scene. ¡°Are you ok?¡±


    Remnya lay still and chuckled. ¡°That was fun.¡±


    Brisa scowled and groaned with frustration. She rushed to grab the hose and splashed Remnya¡¯s face at maximum pressure.


    ¡°What are you doing?¡± Remnya mumbled as the cold water muffled her words.


    ¡°You¡¯re gonna turn into a pyromaniac at this point!¡± Brisa aimed the stream at her mouth.


    ¡°This is the only way to learn how to control fire!¡± Remnya yelled as she covered her body. ¡°Don¡¯t look!¡±


    ¡°Dumbass!¡± Brisa dropped two towels over Remnya¡¯s head. ¡°Did you think your clothes were fire-resistant too?¡±


    ¡°Oops, I didn¡¯t think about that.¡± Remnya giggled as she wrapped a towel around her body and used another to dry her hair.


    ¡°Good thing I did.¡± Brisa shook her head, stretching her hand at Remnya. ¡°Let¡¯s go. You need a shower.¡±


    Remnya rolled her eyes and grabbed Brisa¡¯s hand, easing herself off the ground.


    Back in her room, Remnya allowed the shower to remove the soot from her body. She grabbed her strawberry shampoo and rubbed her hair for long minutes.


    ¡°Did you find out anything new?¡± Brisa asked, standing by the doorway with her arms folded.


    ¡°No.¡± Remnya sighed. ¡°I still can¡¯t move the fire at my will. It just burns on its own.¡± She turned off the shower, and Brisa threw a towel at her.


    ¡°You will figure it out eventually.¡± Brisa twisted her lips in a weird smile. ¡°I know you can do it.¡±


    Remnya returned another smile and grabbed her hairdryer. ¡°I noticed,¡± she started, glancing at Brisa through the mirror. ¡°You¡¯ve been wearing such cute clothes lately, Brisa.¡±


    ¡°Have I?¡± Brisa narrowed her eyes and smirked. ¡°Are you implying my clothes weren¡¯t cute before?¡±


    ¡°No! I mean, you don¡¯t look like a maid anymore.¡± Remnya turned to look at her, scanning her from head to toe.


    Brisa stared at her reflection in the foggy mirror. She certainly looked like a high-class lady now. ¡°Lots of things happened . . . ¡°


    Remnya wrapped a burgundy towel around her and gazed at Brisa. ¡°Is it Ronner, right?¡±


    ¡°What?¡± Brisa widened her eyes.


    ¡°He¡¯s the one buying you nice clothes.¡±


    ¡°No . . . No! It¡¯s just . . . ¡° Brisa bit her lower lip.


    ¡°He says he loves you. Is that true?¡±


    Brisa stayed pensive for a moment and then let out a deep sigh. ¡°Whatever he feels doesn¡¯t matter. Nothing will change what he is or what he has done.¡±


    Remnya lowered her eyes and rubbed her hands together. ¡°When Persen had me trapped in my room . . . I didn¡¯t understand what was going on.¡± She gulped as a knot formed in her throat. ¡°I thought he wanted to hurt me, or even kill me, but . . . ¡° Remnya grimaced and clenched her fists. ¡°Now, I understand what he wanted to do to me.¡±


    ¡°Rem, no . . . ¡° Brisa walked up to her and placed both hands on her shoulders. She stared at her with sweet golden eyes. ¡°He¡¯s gone forever, and neither he nor anyone will try to do that you ever again. Remember, your fire won¡¯t allow such a thing to happen.¡±


    ¡°I understand, Brisa, but . . . I really need to ask you this.¡± Remnya locked her crimson orbs on Brisa¡¯s confused stare. ¡°Did Ronner do that to you?¡±


    Brisa widened her eyes as her body froze. She looked away.


    Remnya leaned her hand gently on Brisa¡¯s cheek. ¡°You¡¯re so strong.¡±


    Brisa stared at her from the corner of her eyes and tightened her lips.


    ¡°If it were me, I could not stand it. I¡¯d just lose my mind, but you? You¡¯re here, trying to help me, with a smile on your face. You¡¯re amazing, Brisa.¡± Remnya beamed at her and grabbed her hand tightly. ¡°I admire you, I really do.¡±


    A tear trailed down Brisa¡¯s cheek as she turned to face Remnya. Perhaps her words could heal a little bit of her soul, easing the pain for a moment. Brisa smiled, trying to hide her hears. ¡°Thank you, Rem . . . ¡° she mumbled.


    Remnya nodded as her eyes shined as bright as the fire burning in her soul. ¡°I¡¯ll get you out of here too, Brisa. It¡¯s a promise.¡±


    *¡ã*¡ã*

 26: Soul On Fire

    Ronner


    Ronner sauntered through the hospital¡¯s hallways, carrying a crimson bouquet. Fearful eyes followed his steps, feeding his growing ego. He winked at the nurses, making them shiver with his mere presence.


    He halted in front of Magenta¡¯s room, combed his hair, and pushed the door.


    A smirk spread across his face as he witnessed Magenta¡¯s malnourished figure. She was sitting on the edge of her bed, painting her nails black. She ignored his presence, her expression unreadable. If there was one person who didn¡¯t tremble before Ronner, that was The Lady.


    ¡°I bought you these,¡± he said, offering the bouquet to Magenta.


    ¡°Why don¡¯t you shove that up your ass?¡± Magenta replied in a casual tone as she stretched her fingers to check her finished work.


    Ronner chuckled and left the bouquet on a desk. He eased himself next to her, a smile dancing from ear to ear.


    ¡°Did you come here to enjoy the sight?¡± she asked, glancing at him.


    ¡°I already enjoyed the sight too many times, but I admit I never thought you could look so sexy covered in blood.¡±


    ¡°Yeah, that¡¯s the only way you can get an erection.¡±


    ¡°Ouch!¡± Ronner observed the gifts Maria had left for Magenta on a nightstand next to her bed. ¡°Did you know your maid tried to escape?¡±


    ¡°Can you blame her?¡±


    ¡°What if I told you we have her? Skado is eager to test that brand new body of hers.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯d tell you are a fucking idiot for thinking I¡¯d believe that. If you have her, bring her to me.¡±


    Ronner giggled. ¡°It¡¯s just a matter of time. She won¡¯t make it far, and then you will regret not cooperating with us.¡±


    ¡°I already regret too many things, but not pleasing you is not one of them.¡± Magenta looked out her window into the morning sky.


    ¡°Yeah, you¡¯ve always been really bad at pleasing me. That¡¯s why I needed fresher meat, instead of a used one.¡± He ran his fingers along her neck.


    ¡°You clearly needed it.¡± Magenta smirked, slapping his hand away. ¡°Unfortunately, the one you wanted never wanted you.¡±


    ¡°Big talk for someone whose boyfriend dumped her like a trash bag.¡±


    Magenta¡¯s eyes gleamed with a spark of hatred. ¡°Do you actually believe that bullshit?¡±


    ¡°C¡¯mon, Magenta. You¡¯ve always been Marcus¡¯ bitch. You should be glad I freed you from such a burden.¡± His lips twisted into a sneer.


    ¡°You¡¯ll always be half the man Marcus ever was.¡± Magenta turned to him and scanned his body with contempt. ¡°Even in death, he¡¯s still much more than you.¡±


    ¡°You think so? Even after he abandoned you? Twice?¡± Ronner sniggered. ¡°Let me remind you he dumped you after you lost his baby, am I right?¡±


    Magenta glared at him.


    ¡°He went for a healthier, better woman who could give him children.¡± Ronner shot her a disdainful look as a smirk deformed his face. ¡°Instead of a failed shell like you, who couldn¡¯t even breed properly.¡±


    Magenta¡¯s upper lip twitched, her black nails digging into the sheets. ¡°Ah, Ron . . . Your diminutive brain would never allow you to understand our story. As I said, you can only dream of being half the man he was. He earned everything he had, unlike you.¡±


    ¡°Yes, he earned a pathetic death, like the dog he was.¡±


    ¡°He earned the love of many, while you, lesser man, have lived a life of rejection. First, Karx expelling you from their army because you were a failure as a warrior. That¡¯s why you sought refuge under my wing, like a scared puppy.¡±


    Ronner¡¯s smile slowly fell apart.


    ¡°As if that wasn¡¯t bad enough, the girl you fell for, Brisa, rejected you.¡± Magenta giggled, gazing at him with a hint of amusement. ¡°You are such a little man that you had to rape her in order to feel her warmth. The warmth no one ever gave you, not even your parents. Only your dear dead grandma¡ª¡±


    Runner snatched Magenta¡¯s neck, burying his fingers into her skin, and pinning her down against the bed. His eyes narrowed in an intense glare. ¡°And yet, here you lie, dumb bitch. I¡¯m the owner of your life. Your dear dog is dead, your maid will soon be destroyed, your empire . . . All mine. What you have left, Maggie?¡±


    Magenta grabbed his wrist and smirked at him, her eyes turning red. ¡°At least I had true love . . . ¡° She gasped for air but still managed to spit her words like daggers. ¡°Everything I have, I earned it myself, not being someone else¡¯s dog when my army dumped me like trash!¡± Her nails cracked as she tried to hold his arm in a futile attempt to push him away.


    Ronner¡¯s face became stone as he increased the pressure against her neck.


    Magenta¡¯s skin turned purple as her glistening eyes fixed on Ronner in a death glare.


    He released her neck.


    Magenta coughed and fought for air with all her remaining strength.


    ¡°When we find Maria and Marcus¡¯ family, you¡¯ll be begging me to cooperate.¡± Ronner stood up and adjusted his suit.


    This content has been misappropriated from Royal Road; report any instances of this story if found elsewhere.


    ¡°You¡¯ll never own what I built . . . ¡° she mumbled as the color returned to her face. ¡°Never!¡±


    Ronner sneered. ¡°There are other ways to force you to speak. Your butler, Ricardo, seems to have a sick obsession with you.¡±


    ¡°Do whatever you want, pathetic jerk. Your pitiful methods just confirm my words!¡± Magenta kept coughing and curled up in the bed.


    Ronner stared at her for a moment, his hands shaking and his eyes burning with bloodlust. ¡°You¡¯ll be out of here soon, so you might want to get in shape. I heard he¡¯s rough with sluts like you.¡± Ronner¡¯s smile filled with darkness as twisted ideas invaded his mind. He would get her to talk, no matter what. His cruel methods could destroy the strongest spirit.


    He winked at her and walked away.


    *¡ã*¡ã*


    Remnya


    Remnya leaned on the marble railing of her balcony, her stare losing into the garden. Dizziness lingered in her head. She still could feel the pain from her last blood test through her veins. Every morning, six needles attached to her arms drained her life like vampires of steel. The torture lasted for one hour until six tubes filled with her blood.


    Sagan had told her she needed to feed properly to recover energy, but food was the last thing on her mind. However, if she wanted to control her fire, she would need to stay strong. Remnya bit her fourth lemon pie and scowled as she remembered that tragic night. That intense feeling in her body ran through her veins like lava. A feeling she had never felt before.


    How could she recreate such a horrible sensation? Remnya sweated at the mere thought of his gaze. She wanted to forget about that monster forever.


    Persen is dead. He can¡¯t harm me anymore, she repeated over and over.


    Her brain refused to remember, terrified of the outcome, yet it was the only way to save Zeo and Brisa and escape from Ronner¡¯s hands.


    However, even if she managed to do it. What was next? What would she do with her skill? Burn Ronner the same way she did with Persen? Remnya shuddered. As much as she hated him, she didn¡¯t want to kill him. She wasn¡¯t a murderer.


    Her doorknob clicked, and someone stepped into her room. A smile drew across Remnya¡¯s face when she saw Magenta standing by her bed. The lady had just left the hospital and came to see her as promised.


    ¡°Magenta!¡± Remnya shouted and darted to Magenta, wrapping her arms around her in a tight embrace.


    The lady brushed her hair and regarded her with a weak smile. ¡°You¡¯ve gotten taller,¡± Magenta said, her voice as thin as a thread.


    ¡°Yes! I turned fourteen yesterday!¡± Remnya beamed at her, trying to share a bit of her brief joy.


    ¡°Happy belated birthday, my dear.¡±


    ¡°Thank you!¡± Remnya grabbed Magenta¡¯s hand and invited her to sit next to her on a wide couch. She scanned the lady¡¯s downcast eyes and face; no trace of makeup on her. ¡°I¡¯m glad you recovered, Magenta. You look as pretty as always!¡±


    ¡°Thanks . . . ¡° Magenta let out a deep sigh, her gaze fixed on the marble floor. ¡°How have you been, my dear?¡±


    Remnya stared at the bruises on her arms and wrists. ¡°I¡¯m alright. It could¡¯ve been worse.¡± She shrugged and smiled.


    ¡°Indeed, but remember, bad times will soon be carried away by the tide.¡± Magenta lifted her eyes at her in a deep stare and then caressed her face. ¡°There¡¯s something I need to tell you, Remnya.¡±


    Remnya nodded. ¡°What is it?¡±


    ¡°Please, don¡¯t blame Brisa or Maria for not telling you. They were following me my orders.¡±


    ¡°What are you talking about?¡±


    ¡°You need to know this before it¡¯s too late.¡± Magenta wrapped her cold fingers around Remnya¡¯s hand. ¡°Ronner lied to you about Marcus.¡±


    Remnya¡¯s heart skipped a beat as a knot closed her throat. ¡°About what?¡± she mumbled.


    ¡°Marcus . . . ¡° The lady hesitated as tears welled up in her eyes. Her silence lasted for long seconds. ¡°Marcus . . . is dead.¡±


    Remnya¡¯s face lost its color. Her whole body felt light and cold as if every joint disconnected from her brain. She blinked, trying to process her words.


    ¡°I¡¯m sorry, my dear. It happened the night before I took you away with me. I was trying to fulfill his last will, but I failed . . . ¡° Crystalline tears trailed down Magenta¡¯s cheeks. ¡°Ronner and Skado killed him when he returned to the mansion. He tried to save you. You need to know that, Remnya!¡± Magenta¡¯s voice cracked.


    ¡°No . . . This can not be true.¡± Remnya¡¯s eyes burned as she searched for lies in Magenta¡¯s face, but there were none. Her tears revealed the only truth. ¡°That¡¯s why he didn¡¯t come for me that night . . . ¡° Remnya¡¯s body trembled as she tried to fight her will to scream. ¡°This can¡¯t be!¡±


    Magenta narrowed her glistening eyes and grabbed Remnya¡¯s hands tightly, her frozen fingers shaking. ¡°Listen to me, Remnya. You need to be strong. For him, for Zeo, for everyone! Now, your fate is in your hands.¡± Magenta wiped Remnya¡¯s tears with the back of her hand. ¡°You gotta fight! Be the lioness you¡¯re supposed to be!¡± Magenta¡¯s voice echoed in Remnya¡¯s brain, filling her body with her fire, which burned hotter than her own.


    Remnya took a deep breath. The pain was ripping her insides apart, but she held her own. There was no time for weakness. There was no time to cry.


    ¡°Yes . . . Magenta . . . You¡¯re right,¡± Remnya mumbled, her tears boiled, and her whole body felt on fire. ¡°They¡¯ll pay for this . . . They will pay for everything!¡± Her voice echoed throughout the room. She sprang from her seat and rushed to step away from Magenta, fearing her body could become dangerous.


    Magenta witnessed how Remnya¡¯s tears turned into steam, drying on her eyes. ¡°Remnya . . . I need to tell you one more thing.¡± Magenta kneeled in front of her and lowered her head. ¡°I¡¯m sorry . . . I¡¯m truly sorry! I caused all this! If I hadn¡¯t been so stupid to listen to Ronner, perhaps Marcus . . . ¡° Magenta covered her face with both hands, muffling her sobs.


    Remnya widened her eyes and fell to her knees. She pulled Magenta into her arms. ¡°Magenta, it¡¯s okay.¡± The fire in her chest calmed down; she couldn¡¯t hurt Magenta. ¡°I already forgave you . . . ¡°


    Remnya¡¯s tears were gone, but she could feel Magenta¡¯s pain against her chest. The powerful lady she admired so much was kneeling before her. She could not fail. Everyone¡¯s fate was in her hands, in her fire.


    The Crimson Fire wasn¡¯t meant to kill, it was meant to protect. Remnya finally understood that. It wasn¡¯t supposed to burn and destroy. It had to flow through her body and protect the people she loved, the ones who needed her the most.


    They remained together for long seconds as silence accompanied their pain.


    Finally, Magenta lifted her eyes and rushed to wipe her face. ¡°There¡¯s something I need to give you.¡± Magenta sniffled as she slid her hand under a pocket in her dress, drawing a key from it. ¡°Room 125, that¡¯s where my most precious memories are. Get there and you¡¯ll understand a lot of things.¡± She pushed the key into Remnya¡¯s palm and wrapped her fingers around it.


    ¡°Magenta . . . ¡° Remnya tightened her grasp on the key. ¡°Why do I feel like you¡¯re trying to say goodbye?¡±


    Magenta smiled, the most genuine smile she had ever seen on her face. She wasn¡¯t looking at The Lady anymore, but at a simple woman with weakness and strengths, hopes and dreams. Perhaps a friend.


    ¡°My dear, there are many people who need you right now. Zeo, Brisa, Maria . . . Marcus¡¯ family.¡± Remnya felt an electric shock traveling throughout her body. ¡°It¡¯s not me, the one you need to protect. I can take care of myself.¡± Magenta chuckled and caressed her face. The lady¡¯s eyes looked more beautiful than ever; as if her words had freed her from so much pain.


    ¡°Magenta, even if you tell me that . . . ¡° Remnya swallowed, her heart obstructing her chest. ¡°What will happen to you?¡±


    ¡°Remnya, remember these words.¡± Magenta¡¯s eyes pierced her soul like a powerful lance of hope and strength. ¡°You need to fight, you need to be strong! You can¡¯t hide what lies inside you, embrace it, and never walk away. Be the lady and be the lioness!¡±


    At that moment, Magenta shone as The Lady Remnya admired so much. That was her true self, and she was more powerful than ever. ¡°Protect those who need you the most! Wake up your fire!¡±


    Magenta¡¯s words cut the air like sharp swords, slicing Remnya¡¯s doubts forever.


    Remnya narrowed her crimson eyes and bobbed her head.


    ¡°I will save them, Magenta! I promise!¡±


    For you, and for Marcus.


    *¡ã*¡ã*

 27: Smile In The Dark

    Skado


    Skado twirled his titanium knife between his fingers, the same one he had used to end Marcus¡¯ life. The metal gleamed, reflecting on his eyes. He still carried the scars Ronner had gifted him that night, especially on his neck, where the infection had just begun to disappear.


    As he wandered the hallways looking for his brother, he counted the number of people he had sent to the grave that week. Humans were disposable. Unfortunately, Viper and Ronner had grown a liking for inferior beings. Such a shame.


    Without knocking, Skado walked into his brother¡¯s room.


    A shirtless young man sat on his brother¡¯s lap, both hands wrapped around his neck. Their faces lingered dangerously close. Viper shot a glare at Skado, who observed the scene with amusement.


    ¡°New toy?¡± Skado asked, stifling a chuckle.


    Viper gestured at the young man to move. The boy rushed to stand up, gold hair falling over his shoulders. His slender figure and androgynous face matched his brother¡¯s type. He bowed to Skado and bolted out of the room.


    ¡°What the hell do you want now?¡± Viper snapped, frustration in his voice.


    ¡°It seems like the young Nephilim has been training lately.¡± Skado dropped on a cushion and smirked. ¡°She¡¯s growing so fast.¡± He licked his lips.


    Viper adjusted his coat and stood up. ¡°You better keep your filthy eyes away from that child.¡±


    Skado sniggered and bobbed his head. ¡°Anywho, the so-called Crimson Project is almost complete. How does that make you feel, big brother?¡±


    Viper shrugged as he ordered the sheets on his bed. Nothing was out of place in his gloomy room, and it always smelled of roses.


    ¡°Is that it? Doesn¡¯t it bother you at all?¡± Skado leaned forward, crossing his fingers between his knees. ¡°That cunt will achieve the ultimate power. You know what that means, right?¡±


    His brother said nothing and opened his crystal windows, allowing the fresh breeze of the night to fill his room.


    Skado scoffed and sprang from his seat. ¡°It means we¡¯ll be his fucking servants for the rest of our lives! Don¡¯t you get it?¡±


    Viper unbuttoned his coat and grabbed a glass from his nightstand. He filled it with a blue liquid. ¡°We¡¯re not servants. We¡¯re allies. Have you already forgotten why we agreed to this?¡±


    ¡°Keep telling yourself that!¡± Skado scowled at him. ¡°What makes you think he won¡¯t get rid of us as soon as we are of no use to him anymore, uh?¡±


    Viper tightened his lips. ¡°He needs us. We¡¯re his strongest allies.¡±


    ¡°Exactly! We¡¯re the biggest threat to his empire.¡± Skado stood in front of Viper and scanned his gray eyes. ¡°C¡¯mon! I know you¡¯ve considered this plenty of times.¡±


    Viper pushed Skado out of his way and sauntered toward his window. He remained silent, his gaze lost in the darkness. ¡°Unlike you, I use my brain. Do you think going against him would be wise right now?¡± Viper gave him a sidelong glance. ¡°Do I need to remind you of that night? If I hadn¡¯t been around, Ronner would¡¯ve crushed your skull like a fucking pumpkin.¡±


    Skado clenched his teeth, his eyes turning red like blood. He held back not to smash his fists against the walls. ¡°Has anyone removed your balls, big brother? Ronner won¡¯t hesitate to annihilate you if he wants to! He has no honor at all. He¡¯ll do anything for power!¡±


    Viper let out a deep sigh and shook his head. ¡°Okay, big-brained idiot. What do you suggest?¡± He sipped his drink, waiting for his answer.


    ¡°It¡¯s time to take what¡¯s ours!¡± Skado raised his voice. ¡°Ronner might be strong, but . . . ¡° He smirked, taking one step forward. ¡°Together, we¡¯re unstoppable. Don¡¯t you see it?¡±


    His brother lifted one eyebrow and tilted his head. Skado knew this was his chance.


    ¡°Soon, the recruits from Karx will arrive. I¡¯ve been doing my research, more than one of those pricks is eager to see Ronner¡¯s head on a spike. We don¡¯t need a huge army, just the right people to do the dirty job for us.¡±


    Viper¡¯s lips twisted into a frown as the glass in his hand shattered. ¡°We can¡¯t take him down. I¡¯ve considered this option too many times.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s why I have a plan.¡± Skado¡¯s lips quivered. ¡°Ronner likes to act tough, but I¡¯ve come to realize he has a soft spot.¡±


    ¡°A soft spot, uh?¡± Viper scanned his brother¡¯s eyes for a moment until he understood his intentions. ¡°You mean that maid, Brisa, right?¡±


    A sinister smile spread across Skado¡¯s face as he nodded. ¡°Once I turn the recruits against Ronner, it¡¯ll be easy to abduct his bitch and use her as bait in our rebellion.¡±


    ¡°How are you gonna convince those deviants from Karx?¡±


    ¡°Sharing is caring, my brother.¡± Skado raised his hands, his yellow teeth sparkling. ¡°We¡¯ll share that Nephilim with them.¡±


    Viper widened his eyes. ¡°Wouldn¡¯t you mean . . . ¡°


    ¡°Yes!¡± Skado sniggered. ¡°We¡¯ll share the Netomics with our allies, after we¡¯re both enhanced, of course!¡±


    Viper scowled. ¡°She wouldn¡¯t survive. That¡¯s madness.¡±


    ¡°Oh, she will!¡± Skado walked up to his brother and leaned both hands on his shoulders, joy gushing out of his eyes. ¡°She won¡¯t be the only Nephilim we will use. In fact, we¡¯ll create many, many more!¡±


    Viper grimaced at him and slapped his hands off him. ¡°That¡¯s too much for a girl her age.¡±


    ¡°What?¡± Skado giggled. ¡°Since when do you care about little girls? She¡¯s a fucking Nephilim! Can you imagine the monsters we could create with her body? Can you imagine how powerful we would be?¡± Skado guffawed, his voice thundering throughout the room. ¡°We could even rival Debrin Kavram with such an army!¡±


    ¡°Skado, you . . . ¡° Viper shook his head. ¡°Are you fucking crazy?¡±


    Stolen content alert: this content belongs on Royal Road. Report any occurrences.


    ¡°Yes, Cassius, yes!¡± Skado clutched his brother¡¯s hand and stared deep into his eyes. ¡°Please, dear brother. Say yes to me. Let¡¯s take that piece of shit down!¡±


    Viper dropped his gaze to the ground. He bit his lips and remained silent for a while.


    A sharp breeze whistled through the window.


    Finally, Viper¡¯s eyes met his brother. ¡°If we fail, we¡¯re dead men. You know that, right?¡±


    ¡°No.¡± Skado held Viper¡¯s face between his hands. ¡°I¡¯ll be a dead man. If everything else fails, I promise you I¡¯ll take the whole responsibility for it. You have my word.¡± His voice sharpened as his eyes narrowed into a profound gaze. Skado had never broken a promise to his brother.


    Viper¡¯s expression softened, and then he let out a deep sigh. ¡°Fuck that.¡± He grabbed his brother¡¯s hand, squeezing his fingers. He smirked. ¡°If we die, we die together.¡±


    Skado pulled his brother against his chest and wrapped his arms around him in a powerful embrace of darkness.


    *¡ã*¡ã*


    Remnya


    A gust of wind blew dust and sand into the morning sky, covering the sun with a layer of haze. Remnya closed her eyes while the hot air messed up her hair. It hadn¡¯t rained for two months, and that part of the mansion had turned into a desert; an immense terrain of lifeless soil spread beyond the garden, ending at the massive walls marking the limits of the property.


    That neglected field was perfect for Remnya¡¯s training. No trees or animals nearby gave her the freedom to be as reckless as she wanted.


    Remnya glanced at the walls. It seemed too easy to escape, but she knew better. An electric barrier of barbed wires and deadly traps separated her from her freedom, along with alarms that would go off as soon as she landed a foot outside. Plus, heavily armed men guarded the surroundings, ready to take anyone down.


    If by any chance, she managed to get through that fortress, the consequences would be nasty. Ronner had been clear. If she dared to try such a feat, he would cut Zeo¡¯s ears.


    Remnya gritted her teeth and dropped onto a wooden bench, frowning as she waited for her best friend. Ronner allowed her to see Zeo once every two weeks. It was better than nothing. Although, for the first time in years, they couldn¡¯t spend their birthdays together.


    Half an hour went by, and Remnya became impatient. Where is that jerk?


    Finally, she caught a glimpse of Zeo in the distance. Her face flushed red. Remnya had never felt the urge to hide before; it was always Zeo the one doing it.


    Zeo beamed at her, closing the distance between them. Remnya stood up, returning a twist of her lips, and narrowed her eyes not to give away her joy. She noticed the odd confidence in his steps.


    ¡°Why aren¡¯t you wearing glasses, four-eyes?¡± Remnya asked, a mischievous smile escaping her lips.


    ¡°I don¡¯t think I need them anymore,¡± Zeo replied, his teeth shining as he stood before her. ¡°Ever since that night, my eyesight has improved. It¡¯s as if my whole body is fixing itself.¡±


    ¡°Weirdo,¡± Remnya joked, peeking at the bag Zeo carried in his right hand.


    ¡°Yeah, I know.¡± Zeo chuckled and blushed as his eyes scanned her from head to toe.


    ¡°Stop looking at me that way!¡± Remnya glared at him and raised a fist, threatening to punch him.


    ¡°I¡¯m sorry.¡± His gaze fell to the ground, but a sneaky grin escaped his pretty lips. ¡°By the way, this is for you.¡± He stretched his arm at her, where a colorful bag reflected a rainbow beam of light. ¡°Happy Birthday.¡±


    ¡°Thank you.¡± Remnya took the bag and regarded him with a tender smile. He blushed.


    Faithful to their tradition, she didn¡¯t open her present and left it on the wooden bench.


    Remnya smirked. ¡°I gotta show you something!¡± She snatched his hand and dragged him toward the dry open field.


    Zeo observed how Remnya drew a small bottle from her pocket and poured alcohol on her left hand. She grabbed a lighter. Zeo¡¯s eyes widened when a blueish flame engulfed her skin and danced between her knuckles.


    Remnya hovered her fingers above the fire, and suddenly, the flame jumped from one hand to the other like a little tamed animal. Zeo¡¯s jaw dropped.


    ¡°As you can see, I can keep the fire alive in my hands now.¡± Remnya turned her right hand, and the flame dropped back onto her left palm. ¡°I think of it as a slime.¡± She giggled.


    ¡°That¡¯s impressive, Rem!¡±


    Remnya rolled her eyes. ¡°The problem is, I can¡¯t create fire on my own. I need fuel, oxygen, and a heat source. The triangle of fire you told me about, remember?¡±


    Zeo nodded and studied the flame as he rubbed his chin. ¡°Rem,¡± he said and took one step forward. ¡°What happens if I touch your fire?¡±


    ¡°Are you crazy?¡± Remnya scowled and hid her hand behind her. ¡°You¡¯ll get burned, of course!¡±


    ¡°Let¡¯s find out how much control you have over it.¡± Zeo smirked and took another step forward.


    ¡°No!¡± she roared, taking one step backward. ¡°You just recovered from your wounds, and now you want to get burned too?¡±


    Zeo lowered his head and nodded, an unreadable expression on his face. Remnya fixed her eyes on him for a moment and then sighed.


    She uncovered the fire. ¡°I know you want to help, but¡ª¡±


    Before Remnya could finish, Zeo darted at her like a bullet.


    She tried to dodge him, but he snatched her wrist, pulling their hands together.


    ¡°What are you doing?¡± she yelled, trying to yank her hand away from him but couldn¡¯t. His fingers wrapped around hers in an unbreakable grip while the fire engulfed their hands. When had he gotten so fast and strong?


    ¡°So,¡± Zeo beamed at her. ¡°It seems like you can¡¯t burn me.¡± He squeezed her hand and giggled.


    Remnya gaped and scanned the flame for a moment. No way he was immune to fire, too. Her eyes met with his. ¡°What are you feeling?¡± she asked.


    ¡°Uh . . . It¡¯s hard to explain.¡± He observed the flame caressing his skin. ¡°It¡¯s an odd sensation, like warm water, I guess?¡±


    Remnya blinked and remained silent, contemplating their hands together.


    ¡°Now, try to burn me,¡± Zeo demanded in a firm voice.


    ¡°Zeo, you!¡± Remnya was about to scold him, but the sharp look in his eyes stopped her. She took a moment to digest Zeo¡¯s words until she understood his intentions. Remnya gulped as a bead of sweat rolled down her forehead. ¡°I¡¯ll try,¡± she mumbled and focused on the fire.


    A long silence.


    The timid flame began to crackle and grew. It flickered in orange and yellow, and suddenly, it gained a strange red tint, almost crimson.


    ¡°Ah!¡± Zeo let out a muffled grunt of pain and snatched his hand away.


    ¡°Zeo!¡± Remnya rushed toward him, concern filling her eyes. Tenderly, she grabbed his hand, terrified of the damage she had caused him. His skin was red and hot, and his fingers throbbed. ¡°I¡¯m sorry, Zeo!¡± She pouted, tightening her lips.


    Zeo let out a loud chuckle and smiled. ¡°You¡¯re impressive, Rem.¡±


    ¡°Shut up!¡± She smacked his chest and scowled at him. ¡°Have you gone crazy lately? Stop doing stupid, reckless things!¡±


    He smirked and gestured with his eyes at where the fire still crackled. Remnya lifted her hand and witnessed how her flame had turned crimson. ¡°This color . . . ¡°


    ¡°Do you feel any different, Rem?¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t know . . . ¡° Remnya focused on the mesmerizing color. A smile escaped her lips. ¡°It¡¯s so pretty,¡± she whispered as the crimson flame merged with the color of her eyes.


    Remnya tried to lift the fire with her right hand, the same way she had been practicing lately.


    But the crimson blaze darted from her left palm like a bullet, dodged her right hand, and exploded against a leafless tree.


    A crimson fireball destroyed the trunk, slicing the wood in half.


    The tree collapsed and burned like a crimson torch.


    Remnya and Zeo exchanged worried looks and rushed toward the disaster. Remnya let out a sigh of relief, seeing no animal harmed by her mistake.


    ¡°Try to pick it up?¡± Zeo suggested, standing next to the burning tree.


    Remnya kneeled and stretched her arms to touch the flame devouring the wood.


    Timid like a crimson snake, the fire wrapped around her hands and wrists, abandoning the tree, which turned into ashes and embers.


    The fire seemed to stare back at her as it flickered and spat white sparks.


    ¡°I told you, you¡¯re impressive.¡± Zeo¡¯s eyes shined with pride.


    Remnya smiled at him and stood up, cradling the flame between her hands like a puppy. ¡°Thank you, Zeo.¡±


    Zeo took one step forward and stared deep into her eyes. ¡°We can do it, Rem,¡± he said sharply.


    His words and body language made her shiver. When had he become like that? Remnya barely recognized the shy boy from the orphanage. She nodded and blushed.


    Their pupils connected in an intense gaze. His green orbs touched her soul, and his silence told her everything she needed to know.


    Zeo reached out for her hand. She lifted her hand, where the fire still burned, and slowly wrapped her fingers around his.


    Zeo stood still, no hesitation on his face. She squeezed his hand while her crimson flames caressed his skin. Her heart beat faster, filling her body with joy and something else, a feeling she didn¡¯t understand.


    Remnya leaned closer and whispered in his ear, ¡°We can do anything with together.¡±


    *¡ã*¡ã*

 28: Ghost Love (Part One)

    One Month later...


    Remnya


    Remnya lay on Brisa''s bed, waiting for her to come out of the changing room. Remnya had agreed to help her pick the best dress for the upcoming ceremony; Ronner would be waiting for her at the altar that night. He had invited everyone in the city to witness the humiliation: the powerful Lady Magenta replaced by a simple maid.


    Ronner had made sure to spread nasty rumors and lies across the city; Magenta had ordered the deaths of a poor old lady called Orena and an innocent girl called Ellyn. However, his then-boyfriend, Ronner Kavalar, had exposed her crime. Afraid, she tried to run away, but Ronner and his men stopped her and brought her to justice.


    People were gullible and stupid; they would chew and swallow any bullshit the elites threw at them. They had voted for someone like Persen Doman as governor, and now, his son Cassius Viper Doman would replace him. Remnya''s blood boiled, thinking about how many lives had perished under the schemes of those demons.


    If she could just expose them to the world.


    The door of the changing room opened, and Brisa finally walked out, wearing that dress she hated so much; her wedding dress. An exotic design of black mulberry silk with a long trail showered in gemstones, mainly amethysts, giving the dress violet sparks. Her long hair fell graciously over her shoulders, blending with the silk into a mesmerizing shimmer.


    Remnya sprang from the bed. "You look beautiful!" she shouted, scanning Brisa from head to toe.


    "Do I?" Brisa twisted her lips and fixed her downcast eyes in the mirror. She let out a deep sigh. "I always thought it would be different."


    Remnya stood behind her and leaned her hands on her shoulders. "Don''t worry. You''ll be out of here before you realize," Remnya assured with a confident smile.


    "When I was a little girl, I always dreamed of getting married to a prince." Brisa stifled a lifeless chuckle. "Have you ever dreamed of it?"


    "No," Remnya rushed to say, ignoring her childish dreams of knights and princesses. "But I used to dream of having a family."


    Brisa stared at her for a moment, and then a tender smile drew across her face. "You already have a family."


    Remnya raised her eyebrows and took her time to digest those words. Do I have a family? She fixed her eyes on their reflection. They looked so different, yet so alike. She smiled. "Well, we have the same hair color, and I''m almost your height now! You could be my older sister."


    Brisa smirked. "You still got a long way, midget."


    "Hey! I''m almost 5''8 (1,72) now!" Remnya pouted. "You cheat by wearing heels!"


    "Yeah, I know." Brisa snickered. "Trust me, you''ll be a giant when you reach adulthood. I''ll be a shorter older sister." She turned to Remnya and ruffled her hair. "Come, help me remove this dress. It''s too heavy, I can barely move." Remnya nodded and accompanied Brisa toward the changing room.


    They struggled with the dress for a while. The slightest mistake could ruin the fine silk.


    "Where''s room 125?" Remnya asked, removing the trail of Brisa''s dress.


    Brisa widened her eyes. "Room 125?"


    "The key Magenta gave me belongs to that room. Where is it?"


    Brisa removed the last piece of her dress and stood up. "There''s no room 125."


    "What?" Remnya shouted, holding her head in her hands. "Then, what did Magenta mean by that? She said her most precious memories were there."


    "Her most precious memories?" Brisa held her chin in a pensive expression.


    "Here." Remnya showed her the silver key gleaming between her fingers.


    "Oh, that is . . . " Brisa''s eyes shone as she scanned the flower-shaped key head. "I think I know where we have to go." She walked toward the door, gesturing for Remnya to follow her. "Let''s go!"


    They headed to the first floor. Dozens of Ronner''s men wandered the mansion now, terrorizing the servants and doing their will whenever they pleased. However, no one dared to lay a finger on Brisa or Remnya. Otherwise, the consequences would be worse than death. Brisa ordered them to move out of their way as they strode toward their destination.


    "I''m pretty sure Magenta was vague on purpose," Brisa said, leading Remnya through the last corridor. "She probably wanted you to take your time figuring this out."


    "Why?"


    Brisa gave her a sidelong glance and smirked. "You''re a hot-headed brat, quite literally sometimes." A chuckle slipped through her lips. "She probably feared you''d do something reckless."


    Remnya pouted. "She could''ve just warned me about it!"


    "The Lady has always been a calculating woman. If she does something, you can bet she has good reasons for it."


    "Or perhaps she didn''t have a choice." Remnya scowled and bit her lower lip. "She''s defenseless and overpowered."


    This book''s true home is on another platform. Check it out there for the real experience.


    "The lady has been dealing with monsters way before we were even born. Give her some credit."


    Remnya had to believe that. Magenta had kept Ronner at bay for too long.


    "Why didn''t you ask me sooner, though?" Brisa glanced at Remnya.


    "I didn''t want to get you involved," Remnya mumbled, rubbing her arm.


    Brisa narrowed her eyes. "Rem, we''re friends. You know you can ask me anything."


    "I know, I know! It''s just that," Remnya averted her eyes, "I need to do things on my own. You''ve already helped me too much."


    "So have you." Brisa patted her head and smiled. "You''re not alone, remember that."


    Remnya twisted her lips into a shy smile and nodded. Other than Zeo and Amy, she had never trusted someone so much. How could she fail her?


    They crossed the last hall and halted in the middle of an endless corridor. Empty rooms loomed on both sides, and a faint scent of dampness lingered in the air. Remnya realized that was the end of the mansion, which they used as a storehouse. Old furniture and home appliances were scattered everywhere. The only ones walking that zone were the electricians, plumbers, and cleaning staff.


    Remnya helped Brisa move a pile of heavy boxes, uncovering an old cracked door. It had no number, only a flower-like symbol engraved in silver.


    "Are you sure it''s here?" Remnya asked, scratching the rotten wood.


    "Yes. Try the key," Brisa suggested.


    Remnya did as she said, but the key didn''t fit. In fact, the door was already unlocked. Remnya and Brisa exchanged surprised looks.


    The screech of ancient rusty hinges drilled Remnya''s ears as she pushed the door open. A cloud of dust welcomed her into a cold dark room. Remnya coughed and covered her nose as she stepped inside. Brisa stood further away, waiting for the dust to settle.


    "There''s no light here!" Remnya complained, stumbling on a chair. She halted and swept her surroundings with her hands. Old furniture and boxes spread everywhere. She could barely move in such a cramped space.


    Brisa followed Remnya and grabbed her tail not to lose track of her steps and avoid the obstacles. "There hasn''t been electricity in these old rooms for years. Should I go get a torch?"


    "No need." Remnya snapped her fingers. Sparks crackled between her thumb and middle finger as a crimson flame grew in her hand, illuminating the whole room.


    Brisa gaped at her. "What? When did you learn to do that without a lighter?"


    "Long story." She smirked, thinking about her last meeting with Zeo.


    They continued through the mess. Everything flickered in crimson. Boxes, chairs, tables, refrigerators, ovens. They looked in perfect condition, way better than anything Remnya had seen in the orphanage. Yet, these people just threw it there like trash. How many orphanages could have had warm food and cold water with half of those things? How many children could have had a smile on their faces?


    "We didn''t even have enough tables . . . " Remnya murmured, increasing the fire in her hand. Brisa stopped, blinded by the intense light. Remnya realized only her eyes weren''t affected by it.


    Remnya let out a silent gasp when she spotted a pile of books and boxes lying in a corner. She kneeled next to them and began tossing things around until she uncovered what lay beneath. A massive iron chest buried under a thick layer of dust. "This!" Remnya shouted as she swept the dust away with her free hand.


    "How did you know this was here?" Brisa asked, crouching next to her.


    "The key," Remnya replied. "I knew it was different from the keys we use for the doors. I figured it had to belong to a chest or something."


    Remnya pushed the key into the lock, and it fit perfectly. She took a deep breath and then turned the key.


    The chest opened.


    There she saw it; Magenta''s memories. Piles and piles of pictures, photo albums, boxes full of letters, gifts, and withered flowers.


    Remnya''s eyes shone when she found what she was looking for; a book buried in a corner. Its cover read ''My Most Precious Memories.'' Remnya took it between her hands, and a picture slipped through the pages, falling on the dusty floor.


    Remnya picked it up. A knot closed her throat when she saw it; Magenta and Marcus in their younger years. Remnya observed the image in silence as tears welled up in her eyes.


    "He was so handsome," Remnya whispered, caressing the old picture. "And she was just as beautiful."


    "You''re right." Brisa leaned her chin on Remnya''s shoulder and observed the picture too.


    "Why?" Remnya asked bitterly. "Why couldn''t they be happy together? They were so perfect."


    "I don''t know much about it, other than what Ronner told me. They both made mistakes, they both had too many regrets . . . " Brisa sighed. "In the end, I guess we need more than love to be happy." Brisa''s voice trembled as she rubbed Remnya''s arm and kissed her head. "You''ll need to learn the truth by yourself, Rem."


    Remnya nodded and placed the picture upside down over a cardboard box filled with letters. Her pupils caught a glimpse of sparkling metal peeking at her from a corner of the chest.


    Remnya rushed to remove the boxes.


    Her jaw dropped, and her blood froze at the sight.


    A huge shotgun, and two revolvers. They gleamed in lustrous titanium. "What is this?" Remnya mumbled as her trembling fingertips caressed one of the guns.


    "Remnya, be careful with that!" Brisa shouted, terror filling her voice.


    Remnya ignored her warning and cradled one of the guns in her hands. Her heart kicked against her chest. She had never touched anything like that. "Why did Magenta leave this here?"


    "No idea . . . Perhaps, a mistake?"


    "No." Remnya narrowed her eyes. "She wouldn''t make such mistakes. You said it yourself, she has good reasons for everything she does."


    "Are you telling me that . . . " Brisa gulped, "she left these weapons here on purpose?"


    Remnya eased the gun back into the chest and glanced at Brisa. "She wants me to get everyone out of here . . . in order to do that, I need to fight."


    "But . . . weapons are extremely dangerous! Why would she do this?"


    "Bris." Remnya regarded her with an endearing smile. "My fire is a thousand times more dangerous. Magenta believes I am ready to handle this responsibility. I can''t fail her or you, or anyone else."


    "Rem, even if you say that . . . "


    "Don''t worry. I know I can''t kill someone, I''m not a murderer, but I need to use them if necessary. Not to kill, but to protect those who are important to me."


    "Those aren''t ordinary weapons, though."


    "I noticed."


    "Those use plasma type cannon bullets. They''re made of titanium."


    Remnya tilted her head, widening her eyes. "How do you know those things?"


    Brisa giggled. "Ronner told me about that . . . I need to listen when he goes on his rants."


    "So, do you know how special these are?"


    "All I know is that those things can seriously injure the toughest of enemies." Brisa took a deep breath. "Ronner told me that Magenta tried to kill Skado with one of those. She aimed it at his head and pulled the trigger. The impact sent him unconscious, almost cracking his skull before his brother stopped her. He tried to kill her, but Ronner stopped him."


    Remnya took a moment to process her words. "That''s why he used to wear bandages . . . "


    "Several bullets to the head could even kill one of them. However, Ronner is far stronger than any of the Doman''s brothers."


    "What about the big one?"


    "If what he says is true, one of those things could penetrate through the skin of a Nephilim, so they''re likely to kill any of them. I''d dare say, even Ronner, as long as he doesn''t protect himself with one of his skills."


    "So . . . a surprise attack."


    Brisa tightened her lips. "We should return. They''ll become suspicious if we stay here for too long."


    "Yes, we should . . . " Remnya ordered the weapons and boxes in the chest but made sure to take that one photo album with her. She closed the chest and locked it.


    *¡ã*¡ã*

 28: Ghost Love (Part Two)

    Remnya


    Remnya returned to her room and closed the door behind her. Letting out a deep sigh, she dropped onto her bed, holding that photo album in her hands. The leather cover was red with the worn shapes of what used to be a flower artisanally carved. Her fingers left a clean trail as they brushed the dust off the cover. Remnya hesitated, her heart racing at the thought of what hid inside.


    She took a deep breath and turned the first page. ''Regina'' is what it read on the pale paper. Remnya blinked, wondering what that meant. The picture on the next page hit her like a punch of melancholy and sorrow; Magenta and Marcus, younger and happier. He held her in his arms, and her smile was genuine and innocent. Remnya read a short text on the bottom page: ''Just today we found out we''re gonna be parents! I''m so happy!''.


    Remnya felt her soul escaping her body, leaving a void in her heart. Her trembling fingers tightened around the book as she tried to process what she had just read. "Parents? But . . . she has no children." Remnya wanted to close the book right there, but her fire wouldn''t allow her such cowardice. She wanted me to find out the truth, and I have to! Remnya was panting, but she continued.


    More and more pictures, each one of them showing them so happy, so full of hopes and dreams. Tears escaped Remnya''s eyes, soaking the pages. What went wrong? What? Remnya questioned as frustration burned her chest.


    Finally, she saw it. The last page was wrinkled, torn, and stained with dried blood and black dots.


    ''So, here it ends. Life has once again shown me there''s no place for childish hopes and dreams. The doctors had been clear. After what happened to me, I can no longer bear children. Why was I even born a woman in this disgusting world? Just to suffer?


    Marcus still doesn''t know . . . He still believes I''m just infertile, but no . . . There''s more to it, much more.


    If he knew, he''d murder them all. The Hunters. Fucking wicked beasts living under the facade of protecting the weak, starting a pointless war to fulfill their greedy ambitions . . . I hope you all burn in hell.


    No one will ever know what I went through. No one will ever know what I felt when they took my baby girl''s life. No one will ever know what they did to me.


    They took everything I loved.


    They ruined me forever.


    Marcus. I don''t deserve you, nor do you deserve me. I don''t deserve our beautiful baby.


    I''ll never forgive them.


    I''ll kill them all.


    No matter what it costs me. I don''t care if it costs my whole humanity. I''ll hunt them down to the depths of hell if necessary. They will pay for what they did to us, every one of them.


    I''m sorry, Marcus, but I won''t drag you with me into that inferno. You deserve to be happy . . . GO AWAY. There is still salvation for you. Leave this monster to rot in the bowels of hell.


    MG.''


    Remnya was trembling. She dropped the book on her bed and stared at her hands, shaking, sweaty, and cold. Her eyes burned as she gritted her teeth so hard her jaw hurt. Remnya buried her head into the blankets and sobbed. She yanked at her hair and let out a roar of pain, desperation, and frustration.


    "Why?" Remnya screamed. "None of them deserved this!" She punched her mattress, tearing the fabric apart. Her fists smoked and glowed. "A life of pain just to end like this?" Remnya murmured, sniffling as a raging stream burned her cheeks and turned into steam. "It''s not fair . . . it''s not fair!"


    Remnya staggered away from her bed as crimson sparks shot from her skin.


    "That''s why she got with Ronner . . . for revenge . . . to kill the ones who took everything from her." Remnya took a deep breath, filling her chest with the pain tearing her soul apart. "I''m sorry, Magenta . . . If I just knew . . ." Remnya closed the book and squeezed her eyes shut, holding back her tears and the fire crawling in her heart.


    "I won''t leave you alone . . . Sorry, I know I promised it, but you don''t deserve to go alone. No one deserves that."


    *¡ã*¡ã*


    Magenta


    Magenta stood still on her balcony, contemplating her garden. An orange sun faded on the horizon, warm and beautiful, and the breeze was soft like a kiss. Pride filled her soul as she marveled at the White Fangs blooming beneath her. They would always be her favorite: Marcus'' first and last gift.


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    She thought about those days when life was simpler and dreams a childish illusion, not an everlasting memory filled with regrets. Life had given her power, money, and fame. Why could she never be happy?


    Marcus never walked away. She drove him away.


    After Magenta lost her baby, she went into a spiral of madness and hatred. Life had turned its back on her again.


    They had waited for their little girl so much. Magenta chose her first name, Regina, and Marcus did her second one, Karen. Regina Karen Froilan was such a crappy name; that''s what she had always told him.


    Magenta smiled, thinking about those beautiful moments that would never ever come back. She took a deep breath, filling her lungs with the sweet scent of her garden. She removed her necklace and cracked the gold pendant open. A diminutive red and black pill fell into her palm.


    Magenta brushed the marble railing with her fingertips and closed her eyes. She remembered that night when she decided to leave Marcus to pursue her nightmares of fame and power, thinking that''d fill the void in her heart. How wrong she was.


    Her fate had never been being a mother or a wife. Her fate had always been a shallow ladder to the depths of hell. No way she would drag the man she loved with her.


    Yet, she did.


    A soft knock on the door caused her to squeeze the pill into her palm.


    The door opened, and Ronner''s gleaming shoes crawled into her room. His lips twisted into an obnoxious smirk as he sauntered over to her. He leaned his chin on her shoulder and wrapped his arms around her waist.


    "Are you ready for tonight?" he whispered in her ear.


    Magenta said nothing; he wasn''t worth any of her words. Her eyes fixed on her exotic garden of black roses, contrasting with her treasured field of White Fangs.


    Ronner chuckled and sniffed her neck. "I could stop all this with just one word. All you have to do is comply with my request."


    The lady didn''t move an inch. She would never kneel before such a pathetic man, she would never yield for mercy.


    "Ricardo is eager to destroy that body of yours." His voice turned into ice. Magenta felt his minty breath hitting her neck.


    She closed her eyes, allowing the silence to drag the darkness away.


    "Have a good night, Maggie," Ronner susurrated and kissed her cheek before leaving the room.


    The sun died behind dark indigo mountaintops, leaving a hue of orange and blue scattered across the sky.


    That monster with ocean eyes had once made her happy. That monster had cleared the path for her ascension as one of the most powerful women in the country. Yet, the price to pay had been too high. How many lives had perished because of her own greed?


    It didn''t matter anymore. Magenta had accepted her punishment long ago. Life had given her everything she deserved, and it had taken the only man she had ever loved too.


    Magenta paced around her room and stood in front of her massive closet. Buried in a corner, she saw it; Marcus'' suit. Magenta took it between her hands and stared at the thread for painful seconds. Tears welled up in her eyes. She smelled it, breathing the faint essence of his perfume, and then squeezed it against her chest.


    "You know, my love," she whispered, fidgeting with that mysterious pill between her fingertips. "If I had known you''d return to me, I would''ve never accepted to become The Lady . . . " Magenta stifled a chuckle as she admired the little mercy between her hands. "I would''ve abandoned Ronner, my title, my entire fortune, my revenge, my whole life for you . . . "


    Magenta caressed her lips and opened her mouth. "When your girl was born, I thought it was over . . . That our story had reached its end." She pushed the pill between her lips and slowly dragged it into her mouth with the tip of her tongue.


    "I was wrong."


    She swallowed it.


    "We were meant for each other." She smiled, thinking about her younger self and his handsome gentleman. "Wait for me, my love. I''m coming home."


    Silence.


    The whole room began spinning around her. Magenta staggered toward her bed and eased herself onto the soft sheets.


    "That young girl . . . she will change the fate of many, won''t she?" Magenta giggled as she lay down, burying her face in the pillow, hugging his suit tightly between her arms.


    Are you ready to go, my lady?


    "Almost . . . "


    Her door burst open.


    "Magenta!"


    The lady recognized Remnya''s voice. What was she doing in her room?


    Magenta felt her strong arms wrapping around her body and loud sobs in her ear. Magenta tried but couldn''t open her eyes; her body wasn''t hers anymore. Her soul was the only one refusing to leave.


    "My dear . . . " Magenta mumbled. "What are you doing here?"


    "Now I understand it all . . . " Remnya''s voice cracked as she pulled Magenta against her chest. "No one deserves to die alone . . . "


    "Rem, don''t worry about me." The lady smiled, feeling the heat in Remnya''s heart and soul. "You already found a family, and they love you." Magenta used her last bit of strength to squeeze Remnya''s hand. "Now, get out of here and be the lady and the lioness you''re supposed to be."


    "Protect them for me . . . "


    Remnya''s hot tears fell on Magenta''s face. "I will, Magenta . . . I promise I will," Remnya whispered in her ear, her voice filling Magenta''s soul, assuring her it was safe to leave. That young girl would finish what she started. How proud she was.


    "Thank you, Remnya."


    A deep silence.


    Magenta felt sleepy while a cold but motherly breeze embraced her body. All the pain in her chest was suddenly gone.


    A familiar figure flashed before her eyes, blurred at first, but slowly, it imposed over the darkness.


    Marcus stood next to her.


    Magenta smiled, reaching out for his hand. She wrapped her fingers between his.


    Marcus beamed at her.


    Without releasing his hand, Magenta eased herself from the bed and stood before Marcus. She lifted her gaze at him, scanning every feature on his face. He was so young and handsome.


    Marcus didn''t say a word, but she understood the meaning of his tender eyes.


    "Do you think I''ll be able to see her?" Magenta asked, her pupils shining with joy.


    He bobbed his head. "Our little girl is waiting for us."


    "Does she have your eyes?"


    "No." He laughed. "Her eyes are two beautiful emeralds."


    "Good! I would''ve hated those ugly eyes of yours." Magenta smirked, leaning her head on his chest.


    "I know." Marcus kissed her cheek and squeezed her body tightly against his.


    The soft essence of White Fangs filled Magenta''s soul with a profound feeling of peace.


    They stared at each other.


    "I love you."


    "I love you too."


    *¡ã*¡ã*

 29: Nightmare

    Remnya


    Lightning broke through the night sky as violent winds stripped the trees from their leaves. Remnya was leaning on the balcony of her window, a flame flickering in her hand, unyielding. A burst of rain whipped her cheeks, evaporating against her skin. Her body was dry; no raindrop could penetrate the crimson aura surrounding her.


    Thunder rumbled in the distance, shaking the ground under her feet.


    The crystal windows from her room opened behind her, and Brisa walked outside, carrying an umbrella. She squinted as a gust of wind splashed her face. ¡°Why don¡¯t you come inside?¡± Brisa asked. ¡°You¡¯ve been there for hours.¡±


    Remnya said nothing. Her mind was stranded far away.


    ¡°I asked Ronner what you told me.¡± Brisa stood next to her, covering both of them with her umbrella. ¡°He agreed to it. Magenta will be buried next to Marcus.¡±


    ¡°Thank you,¡± Remnya replied, her voice empty.


    ¡°You did everything you could,¡± Brisa assured, combing Remnya¡¯s messy hair with her fingertips and then rubbing her back. Remnya¡¯s body was glowing crimson, but it would never harm Brisa. ¡°You were there for her until the end.¡±


    ¡°Yeah.¡± Remnya closed her eyes and allowed the cold raindrops to land on her skin, washing away the sorrow. ¡°When will the wedding be now?¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t know. Ronner needs to get rid of some people first. Her sudden death raised a lot of questions among the citizens.¡± Brisa let out a deep sigh. ¡°I wish the world could see who he really is.¡±


    ¡°They will.¡± Remnya¡¯s gaze landed on Brisa. ¡°I¡¯ll make sure of it.¡±


    ¡°Rem, you need to think about this carefully.¡±


    ¡°I did.¡± Her voice was sharp like a knife.


    Brisa gulped. ¡°What if your plan fails?¡±


    ¡°It won¡¯t.¡± Remnya¡¯s eyes returned to the sky as her body glowed crimson again. Her drenched clothes waved as the water evaporated.


    Brisa lowered her gaze and nodded. ¡°So, what do I need to do?¡± she asked, tightening the grip around her umbrella.


    ¡°Nothing.¡± The fire in Remnya¡¯s hand crackled, spitting sparks. ¡°When the day comes, I¡¯ll take care of them.¡± She glanced at her bedroom. Two loaded weapons hid under her bed. ¡°I¡¯ll take Skado down with a surprise attack. Viper won¡¯t be here that night, so I¡¯ll take my chances.¡±


    ¡°What if that fails?¡±


    ¡°I still have my fire to fight.¡±


    ¡°What about Zeo?¡± Brisa bit her lower lip.


    ¡°I¡¯ll talk to Zeo. He will have to hide and come for you once Skado is out of the game. Meanwhile, I¡¯ll lure Ronner away from the mansion.¡±


    ¡°No way Zeo would allow you to do such a thing!¡± Brisa raised her voice, furrowing her eyebrows.


    ¡°He will!¡± Remnya glared at her, her eyes landing on Brisa like a punch. ¡°I¡¯ll force him to leave if necessary!¡± She slammed her fist against the railing of her balcony, cracking the marble. ¡°Even if I have to knock him out and drag him out of here myself!¡±


    Brisa widened her eyes, disbelief spreading across her face.


    ¡°None of them expect the little Nephilim to stand up for herself and fight. They¡¯ve always used fear to control everyone.¡± Remnya¡¯s pupils dilated and spat fire. ¡°But I¡¯m not afraid of them anymore!¡±


    ¡°Remnya, please!¡± Brisa pleaded, wrapping her fingers around her clenched fist. ¡°Don¡¯t do this. You¡¯re not thinking straight. They¡¯ll hurt you!¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t care!¡± Remnya yelled, shaking her hand off her. ¡°They have to pay for everything!¡± Her hair bristled as crimson flames burst from her body, missing Brisa¡¯s face by inches and quickly fading into sparks and smoke.


    Brisa flinched, stepping backward as the heat kissed her skin. Remnya¡¯s eyes glowed in the darkness as fury boiled in her veins.


    Another thunder rumbled through the sky.


    ¡°Remnya, please, you¡¯re not like this . . . ¡° Brisa tried to continue, but her whole body became paralyzed. She let out a sudden groan of pain and arched her back. She staggered toward the wall, dropping her umbrella.


    Remnya rushed to her side before she fell to the floor. ¡°What¡¯s wrong?¡± she asked, holding Brisa tightly between her arms.


    ¡°Nothing . . . ¡° Her voice was weak, half-muffled by the sound of rain.


    ¡°Nothing?¡± Remnya narrowed her eyes and helped Brisa to walk back inside. She eased Brisa onto her bed and rushed to close the windows.


    Everything fell silent and still.


    Brisa trembled and breathed heavily. ¡°I¡¯m just dizzy,¡± she murmured.


    Remnya scowled, reading the lie through her pale face. ¡°Should I call the doctors?¡±


    ¡°No, I-Ah!¡± Brisa let out a short scream, and her eyes opened wide. She sprang from the bed and darted toward the bathroom. Remnya gasped and followed her.


    Brisa leaned against the sink and began throwing up again.


    ¡°You need a doctor!¡± Remnya shouted, her voice escalating with fear.


    ¡°No,¡± she mumbled and let out a grunt. ¡°I¡¯m fine . . . ¡°


    Remnya¡¯s heart kicked hard against her ribs. Fearing the worst, she grabbed her phone and dialed the doctor¡¯s number.


    Brisa snatched her hand. ¡°Please, don¡¯t,¡± Brisa pleaded, staring at her through the mirror.


    ¡°Please, tell me what¡¯s going on.¡± Remnya rubbed her tense back and brushed strands of hair out of Brisa¡¯s face. ¡°This is the third time in the day . . . ¡°


    ¡°I don¡¯t know,¡± Brisa murmured, refusing to look into her eyes.


    ¡°I believe you know.¡± Remnya searched for her gaze, unsuccessfully, and then leaned her hand on her belly. ¡°Could it be . . . ¡°


    ¡°Remnya, please . . . ¡° Brisa¡¯s voice cracked, gripping Remnya¡¯s wrist. Tears welled up in her eyes. ¡°It can¡¯t be that.¡°


    Remnya wrapped her arms around her, pulling her against her chest, allowing her to cry all her pain out. ¡°It¡¯s ok, my dear sister.¡±


    ¡°I can¡¯t be! I can¡¯t!¡± Sobs muffled her voice as she shook between her arms. Hot tears drenched Remnya¡¯s shirt.


    ¡°You took the test, didn¡¯t you?¡±


    ¡°Yes . . . ¡° Brisa sniffled.


    ¡°So, are you?¡±


    A long silence.


    ¡°Yes.¡± Her voice shattered. Brisa tightened her grasp around Remnya and muffled her wails against her chest.


    Remnya was out of words. All her plans had suddenly turned upside down.


    Stolen from Royal Road, this story should be reported if encountered on Amazon.


    ¡°Why don¡¯t you tell him?¡± Remnya whispered in her ear.


    ¡°No!¡± Brisa shouted, terror in her voice. ¡°If he knows, he might do something awful!¡±


    ¡°No,¡± Remnya assured confidently. ¡°Even if he¡¯s a monster, I know he won¡¯t hurt you.¡± She couldn¡¯t believe her own words. Perhaps it was the fact that they both shared Nephilim¡¯s blood, but deep inside, she knew Ronner¡¯s twisted feelings for Brisa were real, even if no sane person would ever understand them.


    ¡°Still!¡± Brisa let out a whimper. ¡°He can¡¯t know!¡±


    Remnya rubbed her shoulders and then caressed her face, wiping her tears. ¡°Ronner¡¯s awful, yes, but he seems to care about you. Despite the odds, he¡¯s kept his promise so far. I believe that if he knows you¡¯re carrying his baby, he won¡¯t dare to hurt you.¡±


    ¡°How can I carry the baby of a monster, Remnya? Tell me!¡± Brisa¡¯s glistening eyes pierced Remnya¡¯s soul; they screamed for help.


    Remnya had no answer. She lowered her head and clenched her fists while opposite feelings wrestled in her mind. Even if the father was a monster, her baby was innocent. However, Brisa shouldn¡¯t be forced to have him. She had gone through too much already.


    Remnya let out a silent, resigned sigh. ¡°Whatever you decide to do, I¡¯ll support you, ok?¡± She caressed her moist cheeks and tried to gift her a smile of hope. ¡°I made you a promise, and nothing in the world will change that.¡±


    Brisa dried her tears with a handkerchief, her eyes and nose red like blood. ¡°Thank you . . . ¡° she murmured.


    Remnya bobbed her head. ¡°Come, you need to rest.¡± Remnya accompanied Brisa back to the room. She eased her onto her bed and removed her shoes. She rushed to turn off the lights, leaving only the bathroom LEDs on.


    She sat next to her sister and held her cold hand tightly.


    ¡°I¡¯m sorry . . . ¡° Brisa whispered, covering her face with a pillow.


    ¡°For what?¡± Remnya asked, leaning closer.


    ¡°For worrying you . . . You already have too many things to worry about. I¡¯m sorry for adding another problem.¡±


    ¡°Please, don¡¯t say that!¡± Remnya shook her head, squeezing her hand. ¡°None of this is your fault!¡±


    Brisa¡¯s lips quivered. She tried to say something, but words didn¡¯t dare to come out. She just nodded.


    The rain hit violently against the windows while blue flashes lit the sky. Yet, a loud silence filled the room. The soundproof crystal didn¡¯t allow the tempest unfolding outside to reach their ears.


    Finally, Brisa fell asleep. Remnya sat still in the shadows, playing with a diminutive flame that wandered above her palms, wrists, and forearms back and forth.


    A familiar perfume of roses floating in the air reminded Remnya of The Lady. Her words resonated in her head. She had to protect them, no matter what. Now, one more life was in her hands.


    She could not fail.


    A knock at the door drove Remnya¡¯s attention away. She covered Brisa with her blanket and rushed to answer the door.


    Belo stood there, his bulky figure looming over her. He tried to smile but failed.


    Remnya scowled. ¡°What do you want?¡±


    ¡°Mr. Ronner requests your presence in the great hall, young lady,¡± he said, clasping his hands.


    Remnya scanned him from head to toe and twisted her lips. What could that jerk want from her so late at night? She had already done her daily blood test.


    ¡°I¡¯m busy right now. Tell him to stop bugging me!¡± Remnya tried to slam the door in his face, but Belo stopped it with the tip of his boot.


    ¡°Please, young lady,¡± Belo almost begged, bowing to her. ¡°He¡¯s not in a good mood. He might do something reckless if you refuse to do as he says.¡±


    Remnya rolled her eyes. She knew Ronner would beat Belo if she didn¡¯t go with him. Remnya had nothing against him. He was just following orders, plus he had never hurt Brisa or Zeo. In fact, he was the one who carried Zeo to the infirmary that night.


    Remnya sighed and nodded. She stared at Brisa for a moment, making sure she rested well, and then closed the door behind her. They strode through the corridors. Belo looked oddly nervous; she could swear he was shaking. Why?


    Remnya broke into the great hall and glared at every corner. ¡°Ok, what the heck do you want from me now?¡± she yelled, but Ronner was nowhere to be found. ¡°So?¡±


    A cold piece of metal buried into her neck. Burning pain filled her veins as something was injected into her system. Remnya whirled and tried to react, but the strength had escaped her body.


    The hall spun around her. She felt dizzy and closed her eyes, staggering before falling onto her side. Belo caught her in time just before her head touched the floor. He picked her up and glanced at his boss with disdain.


    ¡°Well, that was easy,¡± Skado said, smirking as he threw a large steel syringe over a luxurious glass desk, cracking the crystal in half. ¡°Time to do this. Let¡¯s go!¡±


    *¡ã*¡ã*


    The moist grass sprinkled as the first sunbeams disintegrated the last layer of clouds in the sky. The scent of dampness lingered throughout the garden, along with orange butterflies rejoicing in the humidity from last night¡¯s rain.


    A bead of sweat dripped from Zeo¡¯s forehead as he finished his last push-up. His arms and chest burned, but a smile drew across his face after breaking his own record. Zeo had never thought he could train so much without fainting; his body didn¡¯t seem his own anymore.


    Before his working day started, Zeo headed outside to jog around the Servants¡¯ House. The old lady Hena shook her head as he ran past her. She had advised him to get those crazy ideas out of his head. Hena knew better; she had served in the mansion for fifty years and had witnessed the lowest miseries of life.


    Zeo bowed to her respectfully and thanked her for the wise advice. However, he was not wise himself, and his heart belonged to the girl with the crimson eyes.


    He ran ten laps around the house.


    ¡°Very impressive, buddy.¡±


    Zeo halted to scan his surroundings until he spotted Ronner strolling in his direction. Zeo took a deep breath, fixing his eyes on the monster.


    ¡°I¡¯m impressed with your progress.¡± Ronner smirked, closing the distance between them.


    ¡°Thank you, sir,¡± Zeo mumbled through clenched teeth.


    ¡°Sagan said your regenerative skills had matured, and every flaw in your body was corrected.¡± Ronner scanned Zeo from head to toe, paying close attention to the growing muscles in his arms.


    Zeo swallowed the hatred obstructing his chest.


    ¡°But I didn¡¯t come here to talk about that, right?¡± Ronner placed his hand on Zeo¡¯s shoulder and leaned closer, his gelid eyes seeing through his soul.


    A sharp silence cut the air.


    Ronner¡¯s smirk faded, and his expression turned into stone. ¡°I want you to tell me where Maria is.¡±


    Zeo lowered his gaze, gluing his eyes on the ground.


    ¡°You know I could use Remnya to force you to speak, right?¡±


    ¡°Please,¡± Zeo mumbled, his heart racing in his chest. ¡°Remnya has nothing to do with this. Whatever you want to do, do it to me.¡±


    ¡°I was considering the possibility of,¡± a twisted smile deformed Ronner¡¯s face, ¡°using your girlfriend¡¯s body to test the weapons we¡¯ve been developing.¡±


    A monster crawled through Zeo¡¯s chest, burning his insides as it possessed his body with ardent fury. His hands moved on their own and snatched Ronner¡¯s collar, pulling him against his face.


    Zeo glared at him and let out a muffled roar. ¡°Do not dare.¡±


    Ronner¡¯s smile grew wider. ¡°Marvelous. Those are the eyes of an Anglish.¡±


    In a powerful thrust, Ronner buried his fist into Zeo¡¯s stomach.


    Zeo let out an airless groan and dropped to his knees, coughing as intense pain traveled throughout his body.


    ¡°You should be more grateful, Zeo. I allowed your girlfriend to have a great life. I gave her everything. I protected her. Can you imagine what Persen or Skado would¡¯ve done to her if I wasn¡¯t around?¡± Ronner shook his head and sighed.


    Zeo glared at him, his knuckles turning white as he dug his nails into his skin. Staggering, he stood up, his eyes tearing apart Ronner¡¯s body. ¡°You¡¯re not better than them,¡± Zeo spat.


    Ronner chuckled and shoved his face in front of his. He grabbed Zeo by the hair and yanked him against his forehead. ¡°Am I not?¡±


    Ronner smashed Zeo¡¯s head against the ground. ¡°Stupid!¡± he roared. ¡°I¡¯m giving you all damned creatures a chance in life. I saved you from that disgusting orphanage and provided you with the best life you could ever imagine.¡±


    He squatted next to Zeo and brushed his hair tenderly. ¡°And how do you return my kindness?¡± Ronner whispered in his ear. ¡°You backstab me by allowing that Maria bitch to escape, trying to take what¡¯s mine.¡±


    Zeo glanced over his shoulder at him and shouted with all his strength, ¡°Do whatever you want to me, but leave Remnya alone!¡±


    ¡°Tell me where Maria is.¡± Ronner stood up, stretching his hand at Zeo, a soft smile drawing across his face. ¡°If you tell me, I promise you no harm will fall on Remnya. You have my word.¡±


    ¡°I can¡¯t . . . ¡° Zeo¡¯s arms trembled as he tried to get up, ignoring Ronner¡¯s hand, fury burning his insides.


    A powerful kick met Zeo¡¯s sides, almost shattering his ribs.


    He rolled on the concrete and contorted his body, gritting his teeth before the agonizing pain escaped his mouth.


    ¡°Pathetic creature, you have yet to know what true hell is,¡± Ronner sneered as his eyes turned red with anger. ¡°But, it¡¯ll be my pleasure to show you, little Anglish.¡±


    Before Zeo could process his words, a glowing fist crashed against his temple, shaking his whole world.


    Everything faded to black.


    The taste of blood and the murmurs in the distance brought Zeo back to his senses.


    A punch landed on his jaw, causing his neck to twist sideways. He could barely breathe, his cracked nose obstructed his nostrils, but he could perceive the reek of dampness and decay. Blinding lights surrounded him, causing his pupils to burn.


    As his eyes adapted to the brightness, Zeo realized he was sitting in the middle of an immense room. Dried blood splatters stained dark gray walls, and bones were scattered across a black-tiled floor. Deep into a corner, a fresh corpse lay half-buried by dust and debris; he still wore his butler suit. Was he Christian?


    Zeo swallowed the knot in his throat and lifted his gaze to face his nightmare.


    Two macabre figures loomed over him.


    ¡°Did you sleep well?¡± Ronner asked.


    Zeo tried to stand up, but his body didn¡¯t respond. He was bound to a metal chair, his arms and legs restrained by titanium locks.


    ¡°We meet again, Anglish.¡±


    Zeo¡¯s blood froze when he recognized the horrible voice of Skado. His eyes opened wide, witnessing the crooked smile of his executioner.


    ¡°So,¡± Ronner started, leaning closer, whereas his nose touched his. ¡°Where is Maria?¡±


    Zeo stared deep into his gelid eyes and spoke, ¡°I don¡¯t know.¡±


    ¡°Ok.¡± Ronner nodded and smiled. ¡°In that case . . . ¡° Ronner stepped aside, revealing the most horrifying sight Zeo had witnessed in his life.


    An unconscious Remnya hung from a steel platform, held by devices attached to her neck, arms, and legs. A familiar collar wrapped around her neck; it looked like the one she used to wear in the orphanage, but thicker, with wires connected to a computer screen.


    ¡°I¡¯ll ask for the last time . . . Where is Maria?¡±


    *¡ã*¡ã*

 30: Despair

    Zeo


    The familiar flavor of blood filled Zeo¡¯s mouth, along with the reek of that corpse rotting nearby. His irritated eyes locked on Ronner, who stood by an unconscious Remnya.


    ¡°Given your refusal to speak, I was forced to use more effective methods,¡± Ronner said, caressing Remnya¡¯s face. Her soothing breath contrasted with the nightmare unfolding around her. ¡°As you can see, she¡¯s unharmed. We put her to sleep painlessly.¡±


    ¡°Leave her alone!¡± Zeo roared, twisting his body with brutal strength. The veins of his neck bulged as boiling blood raced throughout his body. ¡°Fucking coward! Do anything to me, but don¡¯t hurt her!¡± Zeo¡¯s wrists and ankles bled due to his extreme force against the sharp metal. There was no pain, only a monstrous fury.


    ¡°No matter how much we torture you, you won¡¯t speak. I know that.¡± Ronner giggled as he walked toward him. ¡°But, it¡¯ll be a different story if your beloved girl is at stake, am I wrong?¡±


    Zeo muffled a groan as the steel cut deeper into his skin. He didn¡¯t care about his life anymore; he had to get Remnya out of there.


    ¡°He¡¯s a stubborn one, isn¡¯t he?¡± Ronner shook his head ironically and gestured at Skado.


    ¡°We¡¯ll test the magnitude of his stubbornness,¡± Skado said as he lifted his hand, aiming it at Remnya. A hissing sound filled the air. Sparks spat from his fingers as a ball of energy grew into his palm.


    Zeo widened his eyes, his face gleaming with cold sweat.


    ¡°I¡¯ll give you ten seconds to speak,¡± Ronner said, burying his fingers into Zeo¡¯s jaw. ¡°Otherwise, Skado will destroy one of her legs.¡±


    ¡°No . . . ¡° Zeo murmured, trembling while his body fought to break free. ¡°Don¡¯t do it!¡± His throat burned as he emptied his lungs.


    ¡°Don¡¯t worry, we won¡¯t kill her.¡± Ronner patted his head and ruffled his hair. He chuckled. ¡°But she won¡¯t be able to walk for a while.¡±


    ¡°Perhaps,¡± Skado added, glancing over his shoulder at Zeo. ¡°We should wake her, so she can witness how her dear friend watches her get destroyed and does nothing.¡±


    Zeo stopped fighting, his body stiffened, and silence invaded his mind. Everything went blank.


    ¡°Tell me where Maria is, and we¡¯ll release your girl.¡± Ronner kneeled in front of Zeo, a smile dancing above his lips.


    ¡°Please . . . ¡° Zeo wanted to cry, but no tear escaped his eyes. That well had gone dry.


    ¡°10,¡± Ronner started, his voice cutting through Zeo¡¯s flesh and bones.


    9


    Zeo¡¯s soul burned. Knives of fear and desperation slowly destroyed his spirit.


    8


    If they found Maria, their hopes would vanish forever. He knew there was no way she could reach out to Debrin Kavram in less than one month. He couldn¡¯t tell them yet.


    7


    But how could he allow Remnya to go through this?


    Either choice led to hell, and he was, once again, powerless, weak, and useless.


    6


    How much he hated himself.


    5


    No matter what Remnya says . . .


    4


    I¡¯m weak and a coward.


    3


    Silence


    2


    No.


    1


    Fuck no!


    I can¡¯t fail her again, no!


    Remnya, I love you, and I¡¯ll protect you no matter what! I made a promise!


    The lights began flickering, and chunks of concrete crumbled from the roof. A sudden earthquake shook the ground, raising a massive dust cloud that filled the air.


    ¡°STOP IT!¡± Zeo¡¯s voice was a monstrous roar rumbling throughout the room.


    Skado stumbled as he shot his energy at Remnya.


    Two spectral arms emerged from the ground beneath Skado¡¯s feet, causing his energy to explode against his face, pushing him away, stunned.


    Like a tentacle, a ghostly hand sliced through the air and wrapped around Skado¡¯s neck, sending his body against the ground with a vicious thrust that shattered the floor.


    The second one snatched Ronner¡¯s neck, shoving his body against the wall with inhuman force, cracking the thick concrete like glass.


    ¡°Fuck!¡± Ronner shouted, gasping as he gripped the invisible force trying to end his life.


    ¡°FUCKING DIE!¡± Zeo¡¯s voice was an unrecognizable growl. He didn¡¯t look human anymore. His eyes had gone white, and every vein in his body bulged as if to blow up.


    The titanium restraining his arms and legs exploded into thousands of pieces.


    Hellish fury clouded his reasoning. His mind was a tempest craving for blood, death, and destruction. The hand holding Skado increased the pressure against his neck. Skado¡¯s eyes glistened, turning red, while his skin turned purple.


    The one around Ronner¡¯s neck pushed even harder, yet the monster never lost his twisted smile. ¡°Impressive, little Anglish,¡± Ronner mumbled, slowly pulling the inhuman force away from his throat.


    Support creative writers by reading their stories on Royal Road, not stolen versions.


    Zeo let out a deep roar, releasing all his energy in a last attempt to murder that wicked beast.


    Before the hand could cut through Ronner¡¯s neck, an electric glow engulfed his body.


    Everything around him exploded into massive branches of electricity, destroying the spectral arm pushing against his neck.


    The shockwave blinded Zeo and sent him several meters away, burying his body against a wall. He felt his skin burning while arcs of electricity covered the whole room, avoiding Remnya by inches. Skado didn¡¯t run the same luck; arcs of electricity landed on his body, penetrating his skin.


    Both ghostly arms disappeared, turning into green vapor. Zeo let out a groan of pain, almost fainting as every bit of energy drained out of his body.


    ¡°Amazing,¡± Ronner whispered, marveling at the damage Zeo had caused him. Marks of fingers circled his neck in deep red.


    Skado coughed blood as he staggered to stand up. His neck was worse; two holes bled from where the spectral fingers dug deep. Unfortunately, it hadn¡¯t been enough to crack his neck. He glared at Zeo and lifted his hand, ready to kill him.


    ¡°Wait!¡± Ronner ordered, strolling toward Zeo, who lay still on the ground. ¡°As you can see, no matter how strong you get, I am beyond any of your abilities.¡± He leaned closer and caressed Zeo¡¯s chest with his fingertip, where the electricity had cut through, leaving a dark red trail from shoulder to hip. His skin was smoking. ¡°That was close. You almost made me kill you.¡± Ronner chuckled. ¡°Please, Zeo. Don¡¯t push your luck anymore. Speak now.¡±


    Zeo tightened his lips. He felt no pain but could perceive the smell of his burnt flesh. Blood soaked his whole body, a dense red filling his mouth and eyes.


    He thought of Maria, her sweet smile, and her courage to protect them. A tear trailed down his cheek.


    ¡°Last second, last chance.¡± Ronner¡¯s voice was ice.


    I¡¯m sorry, Maria . . .


    Everything turned into horrible darkness.


    ¡°Debrin Kavran.¡±


    Ronner widened his eyes. ¡°What?¡±


    ¡°Debrin Kavram¡¯s hideout. That¡¯s where Maria¡¯s heading,¡± Zeo murmured, his voice trembling as tears rolled down his cheeks.


    Ronner blinked, disbelief in his dilated eyes. His face turned pale like a ghost. ¡°Debrin Kavram . . . How?¡±


    ¡°Magenta told her everything . . . ¡° Zeo¡¯s heart shattered, guilt tearing his insides apart. His whole soul screamed at him: Traitor, coward!


    ¡°Tell me everything you know about it now!¡± Ronner yelled, snatching Zeo¡¯s neck and shaking him violently.


    Zeo felt nothing; his heart, brain, and soul had merged into one. Words slowly flowed out of his mouth, revealing every detail.


    ¡°This can¡¯t be . . . ¡° Ronner clenched his fists and let out a groan of anger. ¡°Fuck! This can¡¯t be possible!¡±


    Ronner yanked at his hair and stormed toward the door, gesturing at Skado to follow him. ¡°We can not waste any more time! Let¡¯s go, fucking idiot!¡±


    Skado glared at Zeo, his hands trembling as he seemed to fight the will to stay and kill him. His eyes flashed with bloodlust, but he darted after Ronner.


    Shame crawled in Zeo¡¯s body as he forced himself to look at Remnya. ¡°I¡¯m sorry, Maria, but I have to protect her. I have to!¡±


    Remnya slept, unaware of the monstrosity unfolding around her.


    Zeo tried to stand up but fell to the ground; his legs felt like noodles. He dragged himself toward Remnya, leaving a trail of blood behind him. He gripped the metal structure and pulled himself off the floor. He wrapped his arms around Remnya and squeezed her body against his, tears burning his eyes and cheeks.


    ¡°I¡¯m sorry, Remnya . . . but you¡¯re everything to me. Forgive me for what I¡¯ve done.¡± Zeo dropped to the cold floor and leaned against the platform, breathing heavily.


    Ghastly silence filled the room, yet Zeo believed to hear screams in the distance as if the souls who had lost their lives in that place called at him. Zeo didn¡¯t care anymore; exhaustion forced him to close his eyes.


    Either minutes or hours passed.


    Belo broke into the room and rushed next to them. He used a remote control to deactivate the locks holding Remnya. With nervous care, the man disentangled her from the platform and eased her onto the floor. Finally, he approached Zeo and leaned a hand on his chest, feeling his heart.


    ¡°Hold on there, boy, I need to take care of the young lady first,¡± Belo said, rushing to wrap his arms behind Remnya¡¯s knees and back to pick her up.


    ¡°Is she ok? Where are you taking her?¡± Zeo asked, new strength filling his voice as he glared at him.


    ¡°She¡¯s alright. Once the anesthetics wear off, her body will be back to normal.¡± Belo tightened his lips. ¡°As far as she knows, she¡¯s only been sleeping. For her own sake, I suggest you don¡¯t tell her anything about this.¡±


    Zeo stared at him for a moment and nodded. ¡°Take care of her, please.¡±


    Belo bobbed his head and darted out of the room.


    *¡ã*¡ã*


    Ronner


    Ronner ordered the Doman brothers and his men to meet him at the Great Hall. His eyes glowed with fury as he paced around, sweating and mumbling curses. He promised to make Maria and Zeo pay for the terrible chaos they had caused.


    The men gathered around him, silent and nervous.


    He halted in front of the crystal windows and stared at the crescent moon rising above the horizon. Taking deep breaths, he allowed the fury to flow out of his tense body.


    A cold silence.


    Finally, he whirled to meet everyone¡¯s eyes. ¡°I¡¯m guessing most of you already know why you are here,¡± Ronner said, oddly calm. ¡°We must act fast, although it might be too late now.¡±


    ¡°We still have time,¡± Viper said, walking forward. ¡°It¡¯s only been three weeks. No way a lonely girl could cover that much distance in such a short period of time.¡±


    Ronner scoffed, shooting a contemptuous glance. ¡°It¡¯s not about the time she takes to reach Kavram, it¡¯s about the time we take to find her. We need to cover a large area, with the risk of drawing unwanted attention to us.¡±


    ¡°We can still do it,¡± Skado interrupted, twisting his lips. Blood had dried under his clothes. ¡°I¡¯ll personally offer to lead this hunt. She¡¯s my prey, and I believe you¡¯d want a disposable ally to risk his life for you. Am I right?¡± Skado smirked, his words and eyes full of venom.


    Ronner stared at him for a moment, and then a cynic smile drew across his face. ¡°It seems fair that you make up for your stupid mistakes, but you won¡¯t lead shit. I¡¯ll assign my own men for every expedition. You will follow.¡±


    ¡°What?¡± Skado gave him a dirty look and took one step forward, his boot slamming against the marble floor. ¡°I¡¯m not your fucking servant!¡±


    Viper stepped in front of Skado, shoving his hand against his chest and pulling him away. ¡°It¡¯s fair,¡± Viper agreed, glancing at his brother. Skado had his glare locked on Ronner, the veins on his forehead bulging with anger. ¡°But I have a request.¡± Viper straightened his back. ¡°I want the recruits from Karx to join us in this search. They¡¯re experienced fighters who will be of great help to us. Plus, they¡¯re disposable. If they die, we won¡¯t lose much.¡±


    ¡°You got a point,¡± Ronner said, nodding. ¡°I¡¯ll send the recruits from Karx to assist you. The rest of my men and I will remain here. No way I¡¯d risk leaving this place unprotected now.¡±


    Skado gritted his teeth as blood dripped between his clenched fingers. Viper remained calm as usual, his stone face unreadable. ¡°I got no objections,¡± Viper added. ¡°You need to take care of the Nephilim, the Anglish, and your soon-to-be wife.¡± Viper turned around, sweeping everyone¡¯s faces with his gray eyes. ¡°Does anyone object to the decision of our boss?¡±


    The men exchanged worried looks, their faces revealing the terror crawling in their skin, but no one dared to say a word.


    ¡°Very well,¡± Ronner raised his voice, folding his arms as a smirk danced above his lips. ¡°I¡¯ll assign ten parties led by a trusted soldier of mine. Viper and his stupid brother will be assigned to different groups for logistical purposes.¡± He sneered at Skado, whose swollen face was about to blow up. Ronner kept eye contact with him for long seconds before resuming his speech. ¡°However, the maid shall not be harmed. At least until she¡¯s brought to me. No one will touch her until I say otherwise. Failing to do so will lead to severe punishments. Understood?¡±


    ¡°Yes, sir!¡± Everyone shouted in unison, except for Viper and Skado, who just nodded.


    ¡°Questions?¡± Ronner asked, pacing around his men, scanning their faces in search of hesitation.


    A deep silence.


    ¡°Why does the maid need to remain unharmed?¡± Skado asked between gritted teeth.


    ¡°She¡¯s the last person alive who has information about Magenta¡¯s secret fortune and testaments. No matter how much I looked, I couldn¡¯t figure out where all her money went after her death. There¡¯s no trace of it in any bank of this city.¡±


    ¡°What if I just force her to speak?¡±


    Ronner chuckled. ¡°No. I¡¯m the only one who can ask the right questions, so do as you¡¯re told.¡± He looked at Skado with contempt.


    Skado swallowed, burying his fingernails into his palm, and nodded.


    ¡°Alright, let¡¯s do this!¡± Ronner roared, and all his men chanted his name.


    Debrin Kavram . . . I¡¯ll show you what I am capable of. This time, it¡¯ll be very different.


    *¡ã*¡ã*

 31: Overture

    Skado


    Skado¡¯s search party arrived at the forest of Lacacia, marking the border between Crysalton and the Kingdom of Nebran. Their jet plane had taken less than two hours to cover a distance of three thousand kilometers; there was no way the maid could outrun them.


    The night was crisp and clear, with the gleam of a golden half-moon. Skado inhaled the faint scent of moist soil lingering in the air and frowned as the rest of his party gathered nearby. They rushed to set up a camp and unload their search devices. A pack of black wolves accompanied them, specially trained to find any trace of human life. Skado grabbed his thermal goggles to see in the dark and a shotgun and waited for his party leader to give the order to move.


    ¡°Alright, boys!¡± the leader-a giant-looking man-roared. ¡°Let¡¯s do this! Whoever finds her first will fuck her first!¡±


    Everyone chanted a stupid war cry and split into smaller groups to spread out into the forest. Everyone but Skado, who alone strayed away from his party, losing himself in the vegetation.


    The howling of wolves and men¡¯s shouting faded, leaving behind a silent gap quickly filled by the song of crickets. Dried leaves crunched under Skado¡¯s boots as he strolled down a rocky path. He lit a cigar between his lips and leaned on a tree. Staring up at the sky, Skado swore to the moon; he would end Ronner¡¯s life with his own hands.


    A gust of wind made the forest screech.


    Uneven yellow eyes glowed in the darkness, landing on Skado with an intent gaze. Skado stared back at them, unimpressed, and beckoned at the creature to come closer.


    A short man stepped into the moonlight. He had the face of a kid and the body of a man. His left eye squinted, and his tongue stuck out from the side of his mouth. He smiled with a stupid face.


    ¡°Balrok,¡± Skado said, blowing smoke from his nostrils, ¡°I thought you wouldn¡¯t come.¡±


    ¡°You got my interest, Doman,¡± the man admitted in a thick accent. ¡°I didn¡¯t believe it when my soldiers told me, but it seems like it¡¯s true. You want to betray the blue man.¡±


    ¡°As do you.¡± Skado smirked.


    Balrok¡¯s lips twitched. ¡°What are the odds? What makes you think we stand a chance now?¡±


    ¡°If you¡¯re having second thoughts, you may also walk away and become Ronner¡¯s bitch,¡± Skado spat, contempt flickering in his eyes.


    Balrok giggled and took one step forward. ¡°I wouldn¡¯t be here if I didn¡¯t think this was a great opportunity.¡±


    Skado scowled and put out his cigar against his cheek. ¡°He¡¯s got a pure Nephilim and a full batch of Netomics ready to use. Once he goes down, that¡¯ll be ours.¡±


    Balrok¡¯s good eye grew wider. ¡°How do we know that¡¯s true?¡±


    ¡°See it yourself.¡± Skado tossed a leather pouch at Balrok, who snatched it in the air. He untangled the cord that held it together and drew a blood-filled flask from it. Balrok scanned the thick liquid for a moment. Carefully, he opened it and tilted the flask against his mouth until a red drop landed on his tongue.


    He tasted it, chewing the flavor for long seconds. A sick smile spread across his face as he swallowed it. ¡°Nephilim blood, no doubt,¡± Balrok said, closing the flask before sliding it into his pocket. ¡°Ok, you speak the truth. What¡¯s your plan?¡±


    ¡°You join us with your army to face Ronner. In exchange, we¡¯ll share the Nephilim with you, not only that, but we also have a hybrid Anglish ready to use.¡±


    Balrok caressed his chin, and his bad eye twisted from side to side. ¡°You claim you got a full batch of Netomics.¡±


    ¡°What about that?¡±


    ¡°That be mine.¡±


    Skado gave him a dirty look. ¡°The hell you mean by that?¡±


    Balrok giggled like a kid. ¡°You give me your Netomics, and we fight by your side. Fair, it¡¯s fair.¡±


    Skado huffed and chuckled ironically. ¡°If that¡¯s your price, we¡¯re done here.¡± He turned his back to him and began walking away.


    ¡°You hate Ronner, don¡¯t you?¡± Balrok smirked.


    Slowing down, Skado shot him a contemptuous glance. ¡°I¡¯m not giving you shit unless you vow to help us.¡±


    ¡°Half of it.¡± Balrok folded his arms and bobbed his head eagerly.


    ¡°Half of our Netomics?¡± Skado halted to consider the deal.


    ¡°That way, none of us gets a power advantage. We work together, we win together.¡±


    Skado scanned the disgusting face in front of him. Normally, he would¡¯ve walked away right there, but Balrok was his best bet. His army despised Ronner as much as he did and had the strength to face him. As pathetic as he looked, Balrok was much stronger than Ramos, yet, thousand times more stupid. Skado knew he could manipulate that beast to his advantage.


    ¡°Half of it,¡± Skado agreed, ¡°and you join us with your army tonight. The faster we act, the less time he¡¯ll have to prepare himself.¡±


    Taken from Royal Road, this narrative should be reported if found on Amazon.


    Balrok scratched his bald forehead, where a brown scar had settled long ago. ¡°We¡¯re ahead of you in that regard.¡±


    ¡°What do you mean?¡±


    ¡°Your brother had talked me into this before you. I was just testing you, Doman.¡± He cackled.


    Skado¡¯s face swelled with fury, but he chose to keep it bottled inside. He¡¯d have time to get rid of that bastard later. ¡°So, did you set your army near Ronner already?¡±


    Balrok bobbed his head. ¡°They¡¯re just awaiting my orders.¡±


    This cunt might be smarter than he looks, Skado thought, grinning. ¡°Now, I see why my brother wanted you by our side.¡± Skado smirked, stretching out his hand at him. ¡°It¡¯ll be a pleasure to work with you, Captain Balrok.¡±


    Balrok scanned his hand for a moment and then shook it firmly. ¡°The blue man is a dead man.¡± A twisted smile spread across his face. ¡°I never lie.¡±


    *¡ã*¡ã*


    Brisa


    Brisa was sitting on Remnya¡¯s bed, watching her younger sister sleep. The room was dimly lit by rows of LED lights placed along the walls, soft and pleasing for the eyes but bright enough to see each other¡¯s faces. Brisa caressed Remnya¡¯s sleeping face and kneaded the blanket over her body.


    Ronner stood still nearby, his arms folded and an unreadable expression across his cold face. He didn¡¯t wear his classic blue suit that night, but a T-shirt and jeans.


    ¡°You promised me you wouldn¡¯t hurt her,¡± Brisa murmured, tears welling up in her eyes.


    ¡°And I kept my promise,¡± Ronner said, his voice low and soothing. ¡°We put her to sleep painlessly. The thing is, those anesthetics could put an elephant to sleep, so it¡¯ll take a while for the effects to wear off. But trust me, her body is unharmed, and once she wakes up, she will remember nothing about this.¡±


    ¡°Why?¡± Brisa glanced over her shoulder at him, anger filling her chest. ¡°Why did you have to use her to force the poor boy to speak?¡±


    ¡°Did I have a choice?¡± Ronner raised his shoulders. ¡°We need to find Maria, no matter what. Now, more than ever.¡±


    Brisa clenched her fists as her eyes returned to Remnya. She asked her gods for one more favor: that those beasts never find Maria. ¡°Will the boy recover from this?¡± Brisa mumbled.


    Ronner walked closer and leaned a gentle hand on her shoulder. ¡°Of course, that kid is indestructible.¡± He chuckled. ¡°You should¡¯ve seen him, he is a true monster.¡±


    As you are, Brisa thought, but her lips remained sealed. Instead, she reached out for his hand and caressed it gently. Brisa knew it was easier to tame a beast with honey than vinegar.


    ¡°Did you need me downstairs?¡± Brisa asked.


    ¡°Yeah, my men requested my presence there, it seems like they found out something important, and I want you there. It won¡¯t hurt you to learn one or two things about commanding people.¡±


    ¡°Alright.¡± Brisa bobbed her head and leaned over to kiss Remnya¡¯s forehead and whisper something in her ear. She stood up and adjusted her black dress. Burying the hatred into a corner of her heart, she turned to face her future husband. ¡°Show me the way, my love.¡± Brisa beamed at him.


    Ronner¡¯s eyes shined with something resembling joy or lust; she didn¡¯t know or care. Holding his arm, she strolled down the hallways. Her mind was blank; she didn¡¯t even feel the presence of the man next to her. Her only wish was to see Remnya awake soon.


    Brisa noticed a group of people gathered in the front yard. As they halted in front of them, she recognized Belo and Sagan among the bunch. The rest could¡¯ve also been faceless. Unknown eyes scanned her from head to toe, sending shivers down her spine. For the first time, she felt slightly relieved knowing Ronner was by her side; she wondered what those people could have done to her under different circumstances.


    A heavy atmosphere lingered in the air, mixed with cold silence. Ronner wasn¡¯t pleased; he bared his teeth and raised his voice, ¡°Mind explaining what the hell is going on here? Why calling me in the middle of the night?¡±


    ¡°Sir,¡± Belo replied sharply, walking forward as he always did. ¡°We found two armed men lurking near the mansion. We have strong reasons to believe they belong to Balrok¡¯s army.¡±


    Ronner tilted his head, furrowing his eyebrows. ¡°Where are they?¡±


    Belo waved behind his back, beckoning his men to come forward. The group spread out, allowing two guards to drag two chained men toward Ronner. One of them was a young boy, no older than sixteen. His face was a bloody mess: one of his broken legs dangled awkwardly, and one rock was shoved into his mouth to keep him silent.


    The other was older and taller, and a trail of blood followed him. His face wasn¡¯t as bad as the boy¡¯s, but his stomach had been cut many times. He had been deemed silent with another rock, destroying his teeth.


    Brisa froze, widening her eyes, while Ronner walked forward and crouched in front of them. He yanked the rock out of the older man¡¯s mouth. A stream of blood and teeth followed it as he coughed and gasped. Ronner lifted his head by the hair and scanned the skin of his neck, where a tiny tattoo showed, buried under wrinkles.


    ¡°This one belongs to Balrok, no doubt.¡± Ronner¡¯s voice was cold, but Brisa recognized a hint of concern.


    ¡°We confiscated their weapons. They were carrying plasma cannon riffles!¡± Belo shouted, smashing a rifle against the ground.


    Ronner¡¯s pupils glimmered as he gazed deep into the man¡¯s eyes. ¡°What¡¯s your name?¡± he asked in a soothing voice.


    ¡°Orland, sir,¡± he mumbled through a toothless gum.


    ¡°Ok, Orland. Choose your words wisely.¡± Ronner placed his index finger against Orland¡¯s eye. ¡°What was your business here in my territory?¡±


    There was a brief silence. ¡°I-Uh . . . ¡° he stuttered. ¡°We were forced to do this, sir! Please, forgive us!¡±


    ¡°Forced by who?¡±


    ¡°Balrok.¡± Orland trembled under the intense stare of Ronner.


    ¡°Why?¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t know, sir. We were given these weapons and told to attack the mansion.¡±


    ¡°Liar,¡± Ronner whispered coldly, and in a sudden thrust, he shoved his fingers into Orland¡¯s eye socket, blowing up his eyeball.


    Orland tried to scream in pain, but Ronner shoved the same rock against his throat. The man twisted on the ground, unable to breathe, while his eye socket spurted blood on the ground.


    A knot closed Brisa¡¯s chest. She tried to cover her eyes, but her hands stopped in front of her face. Deep in her heart, Brisa knew she had to watch, no matter how cruel or disgusting it was. She had to learn.


    ¡°You do know why. Balrok told you.¡± Ronner sauntered over to the younger man and removed the rock from his mouth.


    ¡°Please, my lord, don¡¯t hurt me!¡± the kid wailed, wetting his pants as he tried to crawl away from him.


    Ronner snatched his neck and leaned closer, locking his eyes into the kid¡¯s soul. ¡°Name?¡± he whispered.


    ¡°Leyton,¡± he muttered between sobs.


    ¡°One lie, one eye. Do you understand?¡±


    Leyton nodded eagerly, knowing his life depended on it.


    ¡°Why did Balrok send you here?¡±


    Leyton glanced at his dying companion and swallowed, tears racing down his cheeks. ¡°To distract you, sir.¡±


    ¡°Distract me?¡±


    Orland let out a muffled grunt, his eyes spitting hatred at Leyton as his veins bulged against his forehead. ¡°I¡¯m sorry, Orland! But I don¡¯t want to die!¡± Leyton screamed, staring at his companion in horror.


    ¡°Distract me? Why?¡± Ronner yelled, gripping the kid¡¯s neck.


    ¡°To destroy your army, sir. They will kill you.¡±


    ¡°Ronner!¡± Brisa screamed.


    A red flash turned the night into day, covering the whole mansion with a bloody glow. Hissing across the sky, a massive fireball approached them faster than sound.


    Ronner darted like a bullet at Brisa, covering her body with his.


    Everything turned into darkness.


    *¡ã*¡ã*

 32: A Demons Fate

    Ronner


    A rain of glowing rocks and embers turned the sky into hell, spreading chaos throughout the night. The earth still shook under Ronner¡¯s knees. He held Brisa tightly between his arms while burning debris hit his back. His shirt had vanished under the intense heat, and red marks spread across his skin.


    Ronner whipped the ground with a powerful lightning strike, opening a path among the flames, and carried Brisa away from the hell surrounding them. He eased her over a soft pile of dirt and debris and scanned her body in search of wounds. ¡°Brisa, are you hurt?¡± he asked, caressing her cheek and removing ashes from her skin.


    Brisa squinted at him, fear and fires flickering in her eyes. ¡°I am okay . . . what happened?¡± she murmured, clearly stunned, and leaned both hands on her abdomen.


    ¡°Don¡¯t worry about it,¡± Ronner replied as he whirled to face the source of such chaos. The front of the mansion was gone. It had crumbled like a sandcastle, leaving flaming ruins behind. Fires devoured every corner, and half of his men were dead, crushed by rocks and burning trees.


    One of Balrok¡¯s men lay lifeless on the ground while the younger one crawled away. Ronner lifted his hand and shot a lightning bolt at the kid¡¯s head, blowing up his brain.


    ¡°Sir!¡± Belo called, running toward him. His clothes were ragged, but he seemed to be in good shape. ¡°Are you okay?¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t ask stupid shit! Who is behind all this?¡± Ronner roared, standing up, pushing Brisa behind him to shield her.


    ¡°We couldn¡¯t locate the source yet, but it must be nearby.¡± Belo swallowed, sweat rolling down his forehead. ¡°That attack, though . . . It had to be a Deflagrating Missile.¡±


    ¡°Fucking cowards!¡± Ronner glared at the torn facade of the mansion bitterly. Scanning the disaster, he noticed Sagan hiding behind a mountain of debris. Ronner felt slightly relieved to see his valuable pet alive.


    Belo opened his mouth to ask something, but a loud explosion forced him to turn his head. The mansion¡¯s gates glowed in intense orange before exploding into a thousand pieces of molten iron. On the other side, a large group of armed soldiers awaited to break in. Belo grabbed his only weapon from his waist, a plasma pistol.


    ¡°Don¡¯t,¡± Ronner said, grabbing his arm. ¡°I¡¯ll take care of this myself.¡± His eyes overflowed with hatred and bloodlust while a smirk drew across his face. ¡°You take my girl to safety now. Protect her with your life until I get back to you. Understood?¡±


    Belo nodded and darted to Brisa¡¯s side. ¡°What¡¯s going on, Ronner? Tell me!¡± Brisa shouted, her voice trembling, but Ronner never looked back at her. Without a single word, Belo rushed to pick her up and sprinted toward the back of the mansion. Sagan staggered out of his hiding spot and followed them.


    ¡°Guys!¡± Ronner yelled at his remaining men, who formed a barrier between him and the intruders. They all raised their weapons. ¡°I don¡¯t need you here! Go with Belo and assist him with everything he needs. Leave the rest to me. Go!¡±


    ¡°Yes, sir!¡± His men shouted in unison and did as he ordered. They all abandoned the battlefield while a furious horde of soldiers stomped into the mansion¡¯s territory, yelling and cursing, with their weapons aimed at every living thing in sight.


    Silence.


    The first gunshot rumbled, and the first soldier fell to the ground, both eyes cooked and a hole in the head. His plasma bullets exploded before reaching their target into a scarlet fireball.


    A flash of lightning blinded the front lines as Ronner jumped over them, propelled by his own energy. They aimed their weapons at him, but Ronner was faster; multiple bolts of lightning shot from his fingers, hissing as they searched for their victims.


    The screams were sharp and short, quickly silenced by intense electric arcs that penetrated their skulls, roasting their brains and causing their eyeballs to implode. The unlucky ones who survived the initial impact shrieked on the ground with their skin burning.


    A bullet scratched Ronner¡¯s cheek, but he retaliated with a powerful punch that shattered a young woman¡¯s skull like a pumpkin of flesh and bones. Three soldiers wielding swords surrounded him, trying to slice through his body. Ronner evaded each swing of their blades and answered with a shower of electric cobalt fire. They all collapsed to the ground, contorting and smoking. Ronner counted twenty-two corpses; seventeen men and five women.


    Four soldiers shot at him, but he leaped backward, dodging the bullets. Sprinting among the corpses, Ronner snapped an old man¡¯s neck and took his shotgun. He shot three in the head and cut the fourth one in half with his bare hands. A massive man wrapped his arms around Ronner from behind, stopping him, but one lightning struck him in the chest, opening his ribcage and exposing his roasted heart.


    Thick blood showered the ground, along with deformed corpses and the reek of burnt flesh. Balrok¡¯s warriors hesitated for a second, giving Ronner an opening to kill ten in a row with a single strike.


    ¡°Bunch of pussies! Fight, motherfuckers! Fight!¡± Ronner bellowed, smirking as blood rolled down his hair and skin. His body glowed in blinding cobalt as electric arcs crackled in his hands.


    ¡°I yield!¡± a girl screamed, dropping her weapon and kneeling. Two others followed her.


    Ronner didn¡¯t give a shit; his lightning strikes hit them all. The rest tried to flee, but he used the ground as a conductor and shocked their legs. No coward deserved to live.


    When he was satisfied, there was no one left. Ronner was panting, his heart beating like crazy, but a twisted smile was plastered all over his bloody face.


    ¡°Balrok!¡± he shouted with all his strength. ¡°Skado!¡± His voice was a monstrous thunder that made the night shiver. ¡°Viper!¡± Lightning shot from all his fingers, crashing against the ground, cracking the asphalt from the street in half, and covering the sky in blinding ocean blue. ¡°You¡¯re all dead men! You hear me, motherfuckers? YOU ARE ALL FUCKING DEAD!¡±


    *¡ã*¡ã*


    The gelid water from the shower washed the blood away from Ronner¡¯s body. A dark brown pond formed under his bare feet, a thick mix of death, dirt, and soot. Belo stood nearby, holding a towel.


    ¡°So, we lost contact with half of our army.¡± Ronner chuckled bitterly and leaned against the tiled wall. ¡°Anything else?¡±


    ¡°Bruno was the last one to contact me,¡± Belo said, his voice rasping with tension. ¡°He had solid reasons to believe they found Maria too. Unfortunately, I lost contact with him too, and his location disappeared from the radar.¡±


    Ronner said nothing. He just closed his eyes and took a deep breath. ¡°I got no choice . . . I need to end this myself.¡±


    Belo tightened his lips and straightened his back. ¡°Sir, with all due respect, all this seems like part of a bigger plan. They¡¯re trying to lure you away from here.¡±


    Ronner scanned his face, his irritated eyes drilling into his soul. ¡°I¡¯m glad you use your brain, but I already was aware of this.¡± He walked up to Belo and snatched the towel from his hands. ¡°What do you suggest then? Allowing them to just run away?¡±


    Belo lowered his gaze and mumbled, ¡°It seems like the wisest choice, sir.¡± Ronner glared at him. ¡°I mean! I¡¯d suggest we gather the remaining armies and strengthen our defenses before going after them.¡±


    Ronner grinned and squeezed Belo¡¯s shoulder. ¡°You got guts, I¡¯ll give you that. Unfortunately, half of my men are dead.¡±


    ¡°What about the other Karx recruits? We could contact them and¡ª¡±


    Reading on this site? This novel is published elsewhere. Support the author by seeking out the original.


    ¡°No,¡± Ronner snapped, shooting a glare. ¡°We need money for that, and I already wasted a lot on Balrok¡¯s army, the same one I just turned into a bloody pulp.¡± Ronner let out a frustrated sigh. ¡°I recruited that stupid fuck because I knew Viper and his brother couldn¡¯t be trusted anymore, but obviously, I made a huge mistake.¡±


    ¡°Why do you think he betrayed you, sir?¡±


    Ronner put his underwear on and combed his moist hair backward in front of the mirror. ¡°I overestimated his intelligence. I believed fear and juicy rewards would be enough to keep him at bay. I never imagined he¡¯d be so stupid as to choose death over it.¡± Ronner gritted his teeth. ¡°Fucking idiots, they dug their own graves.¡±


    Belo lowered his downcast eyes and furrowed his thick eyebrows. ¡°What¡¯s our next move, sir?¡±


    ¡°First things, first.¡± Ronner applied cologne around his neck. ¡°Tell my men to prepare my plane. I¡¯ll just take one pilot with me.¡± Ronner slapped Belo¡¯s back and smirked. ¡°Once you do that, I want you to go activate the underground bunker. Unlock the gates and prepare a safe escape route. You know that place very well.¡±


    ¡°Sir, are you going to . . . ¡° Belo straightened his back and swallowed his words. ¡°As you command, sir!¡±


    *¡ã*¡ã*


    Brisa


    Ronner adjusted his Kevlar vest and wrapped its titanium pieces around his chest, providing extra protection for his vital organs. His eyes spat fire as he tightened his belt, held by a silver buckle with the shape of a snake¡¯s head with blue eyes, the sigil he inherited from Karx.


    Brisa sat still on his bed, trembling as he paced around his room in search of his weapons. She had never seen him so nervous in her life. After the recent events, she feared the worst. No doubt, he was hiding something from her, yet she didn¡¯t dare to ask.


    Ronner hid his poisonous daggers in the multiple folds of his pants and combat boots. When he was ready, she could feel the gloomy aura emanating from his body. Finally, his hollow eyes landed on her, making her flinch. Ronner strode toward Brisa and halted with his face inches from hers.


    The time stopped as his eyes penetrated her soul. Brisa swallowed through the knot in her throat and forced herself to stare back at him.


    ¡°I¡¯m leaving,¡± he said as his fingers caressed her cheek. ¡°Belo and the rest of my men will take care of you and Remnya.¡±


    ¡°Uh-where are you going?¡± she stuttered.


    A long silence.


    He smiled. ¡°I¡¯m going to end this.¡±


    Brisa widened her eyes, not knowing how to feel anymore. ¡°Alone?¡±


    ¡°I already lost too many good men, not willing to risk any more.¡± He sat next to her and stared blankly at the ceiling.


    Her heart raced in her chest. Why? Was she worried about him? No way. Impossible. That was the perfect chance for all those monsters to kill each other.


    Or was it?


    ¡°Do you know anything about Maria?¡± Brisa asked.


    ¡°If what my last man said is true, they found her.¡±


    Those words cut through her like knives. Her blood froze as she clenched her fists, trying to hide the terror traveling through her veins.


    Ronner locked his pupils on hers. ¡°Are you worried about her?¡± Brisa¡¯s lips quivered, unable to articulate words. Ronner wrapped his heavy arms around her and leaned closer until his forehead touched hers. ¡°She made a mistake, you know that.¡±


    ¡°Please . . . ¡° Brisa mumbled, her eyes filling with tears.


    ¡°Don¡¯t.¡± His voice trembled with restrained anger.


    ¡°Ron, please.¡± She shook her head desperately. ¡°If you find her, don¡¯t hurt her. Save her.¡±


    ¡°Maria went too far.¡± His voice was ice. ¡°She betrayed me, she¡¯s a traitor. If I find her, she¡¯ll pay for everything.¡±


    ¡°Please, I¡¯m begging you!¡± Tears trailed down Brisa¡¯s cheeks. ¡°She was scared. All she wanted was saving Magenta.¡±


    ¡°Way more than that.¡± Ronner narrowed his eyes. ¡°She wanted me dead.¡±


    ¡°No, she¡ª¡±


    ¡°I won¡¯t hear no more!¡± Ronner roared, his eyes dilating. Brisa¡¯s heart almost popped out of her chest. Once again, he looked like the demon she used to know.


    ¡°Please. . .¡± Her voice weakened, and her body lost all its strength, as if her soul had just abandoned her. Unable to react, she collapsed on her side, numb and dizzy.


    Ronner caught her in his arms. ¡°What¡¯s wrong?¡± he asked, his expression softening as he held her tightly. She heard his voice, but she could not speak; the whole world spun around her. Ronner eased her on his bed and scanned her face and body, concern rising in his eyes. Brisa was pale and still. Her heart wanted to give up.


    ¡°Brisa, you can¡¯t save Maria,¡± Ronner whispered as he rubbed her cold arms, trying to get her blood flowing again.


    ¡°If you don¡¯t do it for me,¡± she murmured, her eyes burning with boiling tears, ¡°do it for him . . . ¡° Brisa placed her trembling hand on her belly.


    Ronner widened his eyes. ¡°What are you talking about?¡±


    Brisa covered her face, sobbing uncontrollably, but gathered the courage to mumble the truth. ¡°Yes . . . I¡¯m pregnant.¡±


    The color left Ronner¡¯s face. He froze with his gaze fixed on her abdomen.


    A sharp silence embraced the whole room.


    ¡°It can¡¯t be,¡± he murmured. ¡°I can¡¯t have children, I know that.¡±


    ¡°You think so?¡± Brisa uncovered her face, narrowing her irritated eyes at him. Intense fury built up in her chest.


    ¡°I know so. It was caused by a battle wound long ago. I¡¯m sterile.¡±


    Suddenly, Brisa recovered her strength. Her eyes turned into a blaze as she grabbed Ronner by the collar, sitting up and yanking him against her face. ¡°Fucking asshole!¡± she screamed, her tears a raging stream. ¡°You¡¯re the only person I¡¯ve ever slept with in my fucking life!¡± Ronner was frozen, his jaw slowly dropping. ¡°You know it¡¯s true!¡± she yelled in his face, glaring. ¡°Don¡¯t fucking tell me otherwise!¡±


    Ronner pulled her hands away from him gently. He blinked and scanned her eyes in search of lies, lies he never found. ¡°I know . . . I made sure of that.¡±


    Brisa fell back on the bed like a lifeless doll, drained of all energy. She couldn¡¯t even cry anymore. Her mind was a horrible void.


    ¡°It¡¯s a miracle,¡± he mumbled, leaning closer. ¡°I had lost hope long ago.¡± He caressed her belly with odd tenderness; she could feel his hand trembling against her.


    ¡°I¡¯m tired . . . I¡¯m tired of this nightmare,¡± Brisa murmured, her voice fading. ¡°Why don¡¯t you kill me already?¡±


    Ronner wrapped his arms around her and pulled her against his chest. ¡°How can you say that?¡± He smiled. ¡°Life is giving me another chance.¡±


    She didn¡¯t react.


    ¡°I was right. You truly are my lucky charm, Brisa.¡± He tightened his grasp on her. His body felt warmer than usual.


    ¡°Lucky charm, uh?¡± She smiled bitterly. ¡°What the fuck does that even mean to me? I¡¯m your fucking toy, that¡¯s it. Whatever I feel means shit to you, fucking asshole,¡± her voice cracked.


    ¡°No,¡± he said sharply. ¡°It took me a while to realize this, but it¡¯s crystal clear now. I used to think I was confused, that it was just animal instinct, that you were just another girl on my list. I didn¡¯t understand why I couldn¡¯t bring myself to break my promise. I had planned to carry experiments on Remnya, testing weapons, but I couldn¡¯t do it.¡±


    Ronner ruffled her hair and wiped Brisa¡¯s last tears drying on her cheeks. ¡°Even that night, when Skado shot at Remnya to force Zeo to speak, I shielded her, causing his attack to explode against his face. It took me all my life to understand these feelings, but this is the last proof I needed.¡±


    Brisa stared at him blankly. Her breath was thin. Everything felt like a dream, a painful dream refusing to turn into a nightmare for some reason.


    ¡°I love you, believe me,¡± he confessed in her ear, sounding more honest than ever.


    ¡°Prove it to me, Ronner.¡± Brisa gazed into his soul, searching for that love he had promised her. Was it even real? Could such a monster have feelings? She didn¡¯t know, but his eyes had changed. There was joy in them, true joy. ¡°Don¡¯t hurt Maria. Forgive her. Show me you can truly change.¡± Brisa didn¡¯t know why, but she held his face between her cold hands and leaned her forehead against his. For the first time, she saw hope on his face. For the first time, she didn¡¯t see that horrible monster she knew. Brisa used her last bit of strength to speak from the bottom of her heart, ¡°Ronner . . . I believe you can change. Perhaps, this is the proof, as you say. Perhaps, you can still bury the past and become a new man. Perhaps, for the first time in my life . . . I truly believe in you!¡±


    Ronner stared at her for long seconds, his ocean eyes connected with hers in a powerful gaze that made her shiver with fear, hope, and something else. Something different from hatred.


    ¡°Perhaps . . .¡± Ronner murmured, regarding her with a tender smile.


    Brisa twisted her lips, trying to return a smile, a genuine one, but all her energy had died out. She closed her eyes and fainted. Ronner didn¡¯t let her fall; he held her in his arms, not daring to move.


    A deep silence filled their embrace.


    Ronner kissed her cheek, eased Brisa onto his bed, and covered her body with his blankets. He stared at her for a moment. ¡°Now, more than ever,¡± he began, ¡°I need to do this, but,¡± Ronner clenched his fists, ¡°I¡¯ll do as you ask, Brisa. I¡¯ll save Maria. No harm will fall on that traitor.¡± Anger dripped from his words, but they were honest. He leaned closer and kissed her lips. ¡°You have my word.¡±


    Brisa¡¯s eyes twitched at the sound of his promise, and her fingers wrapped around his, thanking him.


    A loud knock on the door shattered their moment.


    ¡°Sir! Everything is ready to leave!¡± Belo called from the other side of the door.


    ¡°Bring the doctors right now!¡± Ronner ordered, the softness of his voice turning into a roar. ¡°Tell them to bring all their equipment to my room. Hurry up!¡±


    Belo returned only silence, clearly thrown aback by his order. ¡°Yes, sir!¡± he replied and bolted away, the slams of his boots fading away.


    It didn¡¯t take them longer than five minutes. The door burst open, and Sagan, along with two doctors and nurses, broke into the room, carrying a wide range of equipment.


    ¡°Sir, what happened?¡± Sagan asked, widening his eyes.


    Ronner stood up and leaned his heavy hands on his shoulders. ¡°Take care of her.¡± He narrowed his eyes. ¡°If anything happens to Brisa, your fates will be worse than death.¡± His eyes swept the faces of every person in the room.


    Sagan gulped and nodded. ¡°Yes, sir!¡±


    ¡°Belo!¡± Ronner called. ¡°You and the rest of my men will take care of Brisa and the Nephilim. Now, listen to me carefully.¡± He gazed deep into Belo¡¯s eyes. ¡°Take them to the underground bunker as soon as possible. In the worst-case scenario, it¡¯ll be impossible for any of them to find them there. Remain with them until I return.¡± Ronner held Belo¡¯s face between his hands tightly. There was genuine concern in his ocean eyes. ¡°Protect Brisa, no matter what.¡±


    ¡°Understood, sir!¡± Belo shouted from the bottom of his soul. ¡°I¡¯ll protect her with my life if necessary.¡±


    Ronner smiled and patted his shoulder. ¡°You better do, my friend, you better do.¡±


    *¡ã*¡ã*

 33: And Then There Was Silence

    Brisa


    A loud thud resounded throughout the thick walls of the underground bunker. Brisa was lying on a bed with her eyes wide open, wondering what was happening on the surface. Belo had told her to stay in that room for her own safety.


    Another dry blow echoed in her ears. This time, her bed shook nervously. Brisa sat up, taking deep breaths to calm down, and rushed to fit her shoes. An intense pain drilled through her head, but at least her nausea had stopped. She feared the Doman brothers had intercepted Ronner at the mansion. Or worse yet, he could be dead.


    For the first time in her life, was she worried about him?


    It didn¡¯t matter. Brisa sprang out of bed and headed to the door to lean her ear against the cold iron.


    Only silence came from the other side.


    Brisa knew she had to call Belo to unlock that door, so she grabbed her phone and dialed his number several times.


    BOOM!


    The ground shook violently under her feet, and then a massive shockwave hit her like a truck, sending her against the floor. All the lights flickered, and dust crumbled from the roof like a gray mist over her head.


    And then screams, painful screams.


    Loud blows rumbled throughout the corridors, mingling with indistinct shouts and cries. Among the chaos, Brisa overheard rushed footsteps drawing closer.


    The door burst open with a sharp clank, and Belo stormed into her room, his face devoid of color. He locked the door behind him and rushed to Brisa¡¯s side.


    ¡°My lady, are you okay?¡± he asked, concern flashing in his eyes as he scanned her body for injuries.


    ¡°I¡¯m okay, don¡¯t worry,¡± she replied, grabbing his arm to lift herself from the ground. ¡°What¡¯s going on outside?¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s Skado,¡± Belo admitted, tightening his lips as sweat spread across his forehead. Those words sent shivers down Brisa¡¯s spine. ¡°He¡¯s killing our people. Right now, only our last guards are holding him back, buying time for us to escape.¡±


    Brisa¡¯s heart jumped to her throat; she could barely breathe. ¡°This can¡¯t be,¡° she mumbled, staggering toward her bed, aided by Belo. ¡°Ronner . . . Where is he? Why didn¡¯t he stop Skado?¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t know.¡± Belo shook his head, lowering his gaze. ¡°It seems like Skado is the only one here. I dare to say his brother is fighting Ronner while Skado attacks the mansion. We need to take you and the Nephilim girl out of here.¡±


    ¡°Remnya,¡± Brisa murmured as a rush of adrenaline filled her body. ¡°Yes! We need to go for her!¡±


    ¡°I got ahead of ourselves, my lady. Remnya is already waiting for us outside,¡± Belo assured, gripping his shotgun.


    ¡°Really?¡± Brisa widened her eyes as slight relief eased her heart.


    Belo nodded and unlocked the door. ¡°Let¡¯s go, my lady, or else the sacrifice of those brave men will be in vain.¡± His voice cracked with pain. Brisa clenched her fists and nodded.


    They bolted out of the room and sprinted through a long corridor. Brisa ran as fast as her legs allowed it, but spasms twisted her stomach, forcing her to slow down.


    ¡°This way!¡± Belo hopped into one of the three elevators that led back to the mansion.


    Brisa halted to glance behind her and then at Belo. ¡°Why are we going back there? Where¡¯s Remnya?¡±


    ¡°Remnya is on the surface, hidden in Mr. Ronner¡¯s room. I don¡¯t know how, but Skado figured out where you were. He even blocked our main escape route. We got a traitor between us!¡± Belo roared, punching the wall next to him, cracking it as his fist buried into the metal. ¡°Right now, the safer escape route for us is through the mansion.¡±


    Brisa gulped, trying to process his words, and then grabbed Belo¡¯s arm, climbing onto the elevator¡¯s floor with difficulty. At that moment, the only thing on her mind was making sure Remnya was safe. The floor underneath vibrated and buzzed as the lift started toward the mansion.


    Back on the surface, everything was eerily silent and still.


    They sneaked between furniture and half-closed doors and headed to the garden. Cold sweat prickled on Brisa¡¯s forehead as the pain in her abdomen intensified with every step. They took a shortcut through an abandoned room. Belo locked the door and pushed a massive bookshelf over it.


    ¡°This way!¡± Belo crouched next to an old hearth. ¡°I¡¯m sorry, my lady, your clothes might get dirty, but this is the fastest route.¡±


    Brisa rushed next to him to stare into the hearth. There was a small hidden door big enough to fit an adult body. Belo did his best to remove as many cobwebs as possible, along with ashes and dust. Aided by him, Brisa pushed her body through it.


    She fell into a dark room on the other side, coughing as she shook dust and ashes from her dress and hair. Belo fell behind her, groaning as his knee slammed to the floor.


    He pulled Brisa to her feet. She staggered, feeling dizzy and weak. ¡°Are you okay, my lady?¡±


    ¡°Yeah,¡± Brisa mumbled, gathering all her strength to continue. ¡°Let¡¯s hurry.¡±


    Belo craned his neck into the corridor, glancing left and right before beckoning her to follow him. The last corridor felt endless, like a marathon to escape hell. The creamy LED lights of roofs and walls began to flicker until halfway into their run, they all went out. Quickly, the emergency lights turned on, illuminating the whole place with a scarlet glow.


    An excruciating groan of pain resounded in Brisa¡¯s ears, forcing her to halt and turn around. Belo fell to his knees.


    ¡°Run . . . ¡° he muttered as blood spurted from his mouth and nose.


    Brisa¡¯s first instinct was to rush to his side and help him, but her eyes caught a glimpse of the monster approaching behind him.


    Skado.


    He strolled in her direction with a smirk dancing on his lips. Several daggers gleamed between his fingers, three of which had buried into Belo¡¯s back.


    ¡°Run!¡± Belo screamed with his last breath, one second before another dagger pierced his skull, opening his head in half.


    The time stopped. Blinded by terror, Brisa whirled and ran as fast as she could. Her mind and heart merged into one, pumping with adrenaline as her legs moved on their own.


    She didn¡¯t make it far. A dagger cut through her ankle, causing her left leg to bend on its own. Her whole body whipped against the cold floor as electric pain traveled through her leg and blood stained her shoe. Skado closed the distance between them in a quick sprint and loomed over her before she could react. Brisa leaned against the wall, trembling as she curled up.


    Knowing it was over, her last reaction was to cover her abdomen and plead with quivering words, ¡°Please . . . ¡° she stared into his lifeless eyes, ¡°I don¡¯t care about my life, but please, don¡¯t hurt my baby.¡±


    ¡°Your baby?¡± Skado tilted his head, amusement and surprise drawing across his face.


    ¡°I¡¯m carrying Ronner¡¯s baby. Please, don¡¯t hurt an innocent being.¡±


    Skado¡¯s body contorted as laughter spurted out of his mouth, echoing throughout the corridor. ¡°Damn! This makes things a lot more interesting!¡±


    ¡°Please . . . ¡° Tears rolled down Brisa¡¯s cheeks as she tightened the grip around her lower body.


    ¡°I¡¯m not planning to kill you . . . yet. I just want to take Ronner down, and you¡¯ll help me with it. You¡¯re the bait that will lure him to his demise.¡± Brisa widened her glistening eyes. ¡°But knowing you¡¯re carrying his spawn makes things a lot better. No way he¡¯d just give you up.¡± A terrifying smirk twisted his disgusting face, half-covered by the blood of people she used to know.


    Brisa closed her eyes, and the pain in her belly intensified. A red pond had formed under her feet, and she felt dizzy.


    ¡°Let¡¯s go!¡± Skado grabbed Brisa by the arm and forced her to stand up, but her legs bent under her weight, and she fell back to the floor. He scowled and yanked her upward. ¡°Move!¡±


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    ¡°Please, I can¡¯t walk anymore!¡± Brisa cried. Her body felt like falling apart.


    ¡°Stupid bitch,¡± he sneered and tightened the grip on her wrist, dragging her body through the floor.


    ¡°Please! Stop it!¡± she screamed with all her strength, pulling her arm away in a futile fight.


    ¡°For fuck¡¯s sake!¡± Skado¡¯s eyes gleamed with rage as he lifted his arm, ready to hit her.


    A flash blinded Brisa¡¯s eyes, and a fireball exploded against Skado¡¯s face, shooting his body several meters away and leaving a trail of smoke behind him.


    ¡°Stay away from her, ugly bastard!¡±


    Brisa lifted her gaze to find the source of that familiar voice.


    Remnya stood in the middle of the corridor, carrying a massive shotgun between her hands. Her whole body glowed crimson.


    ¡°Rem . . . ¡° Brisa mumbled.


    ¡°On the ground!¡± Remnya ordered, and Brisa obeyed without thinking. Remnya unloaded the whole ammo on Skado, who was trying to stand up. The bullets whistled above Brisa¡¯s head, a deafening flurry that forced her to cover her ears.


    When everything stopped, Remnya ran up to her and kneeled by her side. ¡°Are you okay?¡± she asked, caressing the blood on her leg.


    ¡°All my body hurts . . . ¡° Brisa murmured and tried to sit up but fell on Remnya¡¯s chest.


    Remnya hugged her. ¡°We need to leave now.¡± Her voice was sharp and decided.


    ¡°You need to, this is your chance to escape.¡±


    ¡°Shut up!¡± Remnya threw the gun against her back, held by a leather strap, and then she wrapped her arms around Brisa, pulling her against her shoulder.


    ¡°Rem, what are you doing?¡± Brisa asked, widening her eyes. Remnya said nothing. She just gripped her body tightly and lifted her from the ground with ease. Brisa caught a glimpse of her eyes; they were burning, and a crimson glow danced in them furiously.


    Remnya stood up and sprinted through the corridor, carrying Brisa in her arms, until Skado¡¯s smoking body disappeared behind them. Brisa didn¡¯t dare to speak anymore and finally fainted.


    *¡ã*¡ã*


    Remnya


    Remnya¡¯s first thought had been to reach Zeo¡¯s room, but that would take her too long, and Brisa needed help as soon as possible. She took a different route and broke into a large room where two beheaded maids lay on a red pond. Remnya ignored the sight and rushed to ease Brisa onto a bed and blocked the door with every piece of furniture she could find.


    Kneeling next to Brisa, Remnya wrapped a blanket around her wound, trying to stop the bleeding, but it was futile. The blood kept flowing out like a torrent, sliding between her fingers.


    ¡°Shit!¡± Remnya groaned in frustration and tore the blanket apart.


    A desperate idea popped into her head. She lifted Brisa¡¯s leg, holding it tightly as her hands glowed crimson. Ensuring Brisa was still unconscious, Remnya pushed her fingers against her wound, increasing the heat gradually until it burned, cauterizing the gash. The blood stopped, and Remnya rushed to wrap a bed sheet around her ankle.


    Unfortunately, there was no time to relax. Skado still moved, and his footsteps drew closer. Remnya sat next to Brisa, gripping her shotgun over her lap with trembling fingers. It was her last row of titanium bullets; she could not fail. That monster had to pay for his sins.


    The footsteps stopped, and silence engulfed the eerie night.


    ¡°Rem . . . ¡° Brisa mumbled, squinting at her. ¡°What are you doing?¡±


    Remnya cocked her shotgun and glanced over her shoulder at her. ¡°I won¡¯t let him hurt you or your baby.¡±


    ¡°Rem, this is your chance.¡± Brisa reached out for Remnya¡¯s hand. ¡°Go get Zeo and escape.¡±


    Remnya chuckled. ¡°Do you really think I¡¯d just leave you behind?¡± She caressed and squeezed Brisa¡¯s hand. ¡°They will do anything to take Ronner down. As much as I hate him, he¡¯s better than Skado. At least he seems to care about you.¡±


    Brisa closed her eyes. ¡°I told him.¡±


    ¡°What?¡±


    ¡°He knows I¡¯m carrying his baby.¡±


    Remnya stared at her for a moment. ¡°One more reason for him to come back¡ª¡±


    A loud crack followed by a hissing sound shattered the door in half.


    Electric arcs engulfed every corner of the door frame, and the furniture blocking it exploded into a hundred pieces of wood.


    Remnya jumped over Brisa, covering her body with hers, and pushed her against the floor. Burning splinters flew past her head.


    ¡°Ok, Nephilim bitch!¡± Skado shouted, his voice a rumbling thunder. ¡°Hand over the fucking maid, and perhaps no harm will fall over you.¡± He stepped forward, glaring at every corner. His clothes had been destroyed, and multiple brown bruises covered his skin.


    ¡°Screw you!¡± Remnya sneaked from behind the bed, aiming her weapon at his face, and pulled the trigger.


    Fast as lightning, Skado closed the distance between them and smashed Remnya¡¯s head with a powerful fist, sending her body like a bullet against the wall, cracking the concrete with brutal force. She fell to the ground, motionless.


    ¡°Remnya!¡± Brisa shrieked and crawled toward her little sister, but Skado caught her by the hair and smashed her head against the floor.


    ¡°I swear you bitches are getting on my nerves!¡± Skado spat, looking at them full of contempt. A trail of blood rolled down Brisa¡¯s forehead as she trembled on the floor, unconscious. Skado snatched her arm and dragged her like a lifeless bag of flesh.


    Remnya staggered, leaning against the wall as she tried to stand up. Her gaze was fixed on that disgusting monster.


    ¡°Stay on the ground, Nephilim,¡± Skado warned, shooting a deadly glare.


    ¡°Leave her . . . ¡° Remnya mumbled, her body swaying from side to side as blood trailed down her forehead and cheeks. ¡°Leave her . . . ¡°


    Skado hissed and turned to face Remnya. ¡°Fine! I¡¯ll put you to sleep too, fucking bitch.¡± He lifted his hand at her. A blinding energy ball grew into his palm, hissing and spitting sparks.


    Remnya didn¡¯t move an inch, and her glare pierced into Skado like a poisonous knife. She was tired, so damn tired.


    ¡°I¡¯ll never forgive you . . . ¡° Remnya whispered as smoke blew out of his mouth and nose. ¡°Never . . . ¡° Her eyes glowed crimson and immense heat filled her veins like magma, pushing against her insides like a volcano about to erupt. ¡°You killed him . . . ¡°


    Her pupils disappeared.


    ¡°YOU DESERVE TO DIE!!!¡±


    Remnya charged at Skado like a bullet, her whole body a furious crimson blaze, leaving a trail of flames, sparks, and smoke behind her.


    Skado tried to block her attack, but his wrist bent under the brutal force of Remnya¡¯s fist. Her punch crushed his face with monstrous power, burying his nose into his skull as tongues of fire exploded into his eyes and mouth, engulfing his whole head.


    His body slammed against the wall while crimson flames roasted his skin, eyes, and hair. Skado screamed and contorted in pain. ¡°Fucking Nephilim!¡± he howled, desperately charging two lightning bolts into his hands. Branches of electricity shot from his fingers, spreading throughout the room.


    Remnya rushed toward Brisa, covering her body with hers as two electric arcs landed on her back. Even though they could not burn her body, they stung like thousands of needles. She could feel her nerves twisting and breaking in her spinal cord. She bit her lips not to cry in pain.


    The fire around Viper¡¯s face ceased, leaving deep smoking scars across his molten skin that still boiled. The smell was disgusting; it reeked of rotten, burnt flesh.


    Seeing how Skado charged another bolt, Remnya ignored the pain and sprang from the ground, facing him. She charged two crimson fireballs into her palms, the same way she had practiced with Zeo, and hurled them at Skado.


    He destroyed them with two quick bolts that ionized the air, causing Remnya¡¯s hair to bristle. The fireballs exploded, turning into a deadly crimson rain. Skado tried to dodge it, but several droplets landed on his skin, sizzling as they dug holes into his muscles.


    Remnya took advantage of the situation and picked Brisa up, trying to carry her away from the danger.


    A lightning bolt struck her back.


    Remnya¡¯s legs became paralyzed, forcing her to drop Brisa as her whole body slammed against the floor. She rushed to get up, but her legs didn¡¯t respond anymore. Had he shattered her spine?


    Skado staggered toward them, his arms and body smoking, and then charged another arc. Remnya noticed he was aiming at Brisa. Using her trembling arms, Remnya pushed herself up and glared at Skado, ignoring the excruciating pain. She had to destroy that damned beast no matter what, even if her whole body got destroyed.


    Skado smirked. His left cheek had melted, and she could see his teeth. The air hissed, and her hair bristled as Skado¡¯s whole body was engulfed by a magnetic field. Lightning bolts danced around him, ionizing the air and crying like thousands of angry crows.


    Had he given up trying to abduct Brisa? Was he trying to kill them now?


    The time stopped. Remnya¡¯s energy was draining rapidly from her body. In the end, she was still just a kid. No matter how powerful her fire was, her body was untrained. She was just a dumb girl trying to fight against the world, a world she didn¡¯t belong to, a world she didn¡¯t choose.


    Remnya stared at Brisa for a moment. ¡°I¡¯m sorry, Brisa,¡± she mumbled while a crimson tear trailed down her cheek. ¡°I¡¯m sorry, Zeo . . . ¡°


    Skado guffawed maniacally as thousands of electric arcs swirled around his body.


    . . .


    But even this dumb girl can do great things.


    Remnya dragged herself forward, placing her body between Skado and Brisa, and opened her arms. A smile drew across her face. ¡°Shoot, coward,¡± Remnya said sharply, her glare locked on that monster. ¡°You¡¯re only going to kill one girl.¡±


    Hesitation flashed in Skado¡¯s eyes.


    Why?


    A giant crimson blaze engulfed Remnya¡¯s and Brisa¡¯s bodies, roaring and crying with immense fury as it grew bigger and wilder. The heat was so intense the paint on the walls began to melt, and all the furniture caught fire.


    Skado let out a monstrous scream as he shot at them. Thousands of lightning bolts hissed through the air, all aiming at Remnya¡¯s heart.


    The electricity and the fire clashed and merged into one, fighting like two ardent dragons, releasing a massive shockwave that wrecked the whole room. Roofs and walls crumbled into crimson flames as a hurricane of fire engulfed everything in sight.


    Deaf and blind, Remnya wrapped her arms around Brisa, waiting for her fate. Her crimson friend did the rest. Tongues of fire shot from every corner like a furious beast, turning the room into an inferno, a crimson inferno.


    Only one lightning bolt penetrated through the blaze and sunk into Remnya¡¯s skin. The rest vanished into oblivion and sparks, devoured by crimson.


    Remnya cried.


    But the monster cried louder.


    Skado contorted his body like a desperate viper and fought the flames biting at his skin like wild tigers, taking chunks of his melting body. He covered himself with an electric field, and his last electric arcs spat in every direction, aimlessly, each one weaker than the latter.


    The crimson flames kept taking bigger bites off Skado¡¯s skin and muscles, slowly cooking him. He kept fighting until it was too much. Skado wailed and groaned in terror and pain and used his last bit of strength to summon a massive electric plasma ball around him.


    A flash covered the whole room, turning the chaos into oblivion.


    The heat turned into ice, and the pain into numbness.


    And then.


    There was silence.


    *¡ã*¡ã*

 34: Embers

    Zeo


    The explosion, followed by screams and an intense reek of smoke, woke Zeo in the middle of his nightmare. He sprang out of his bed, ignoring the pain of his open wounds, and limped toward the door. Remnya was in danger. That¡¯s all it mattered.


    Zeo crossed the large garden while servants ran past him, shouting and crying, some with severe burns. In the distance, he witnessed thick black smoke coming out of the mansion and people crawling away from what lay inside. Zeo advanced with all his remaining strength, his legs sending excruciating pain until he reached the gates of chaos. Covering his nose with his shirt, Zeo took the first step forward.


    ¡°Zeo!¡± the old lady Hena called from behind, but he ignored her. She grabbed his shoulder. ¡°Are you crazy, boy?¡± she scowled, sweat sliding between her wrinkles.


    ¡°Yes,¡± Zeo replied coldly, shrugging her hand off him.


    ¡°There¡¯s nothing you can do!¡± The old lady coughed as she stepped in front of him, opening her weak arms. ¡°It¡¯s over, young boy. They¡¯re all dead.¡±


    Her words cut through Zeo¡¯s heart like a venomous dagger. No way. He shook his head. That is impossible. No way Remnya was gone.


    Impossible.


    ¡°Move, please!¡± Zeo shouted, pushing the old lady aside, doing his best not to hurt her.


    ¡°Zeo! Skado killed everyone!¡±


    ¡°If that¡¯s the case, I¡¯ll kill that motherfucker myself,¡± Zeo spat, his eyes turning red with fury. His pain had suddenly disappeared, and his steps became heavier, turning his limping into a furious stride. ¡°Go away, lady Hena, this is a dangerous place for you. Don¡¯t worry about me.¡± He glanced over his shoulder at her for the last time and smiled. ¡°I¡¯ll be fine.¡± Zeo turned to face the inferno and sprinted toward his fate.


    ¡°Zeo!¡± Hena¡¯s voice faded behind him as he was engulfed by black smoke and fire, along with the reek of burnt flesh.


    Flames reached for his ankles as Zeo hopped over debris and corpses. His eyes and lungs burned as the surrounding heat blurred reality, turning it into an orange-red nightmare. A few familiar faces had succumbed to the deadly carbon monoxide filling the mansion, while the rest were half ashes. Zeo knew the toxic gas could kill him sooner or later, but he didn¡¯t care. His steps only became fiercer.


    Finally, Zeo reached the heart of the chaos. The explosion had vanished seven rooms around, and the upper floors had crumbled, burying everything and everyone under the ruins. Zeo didn¡¯t see or hear anything; the only thing in his brain was the scream of his heart, crying for her. He staggered over glowing embers and flames biting at his feet, stepping on corpses and burnt body parts.


    Into the smoke, a demonic figure flashed before his eyes like a ghost, a familiar one. Zeo halted, trying to discern whether he had fallen unconscious or not.


    The body turned to him, and Zeo flinched, stumbling upon a crushed head. His back and elbows landed over the burning embers. But he reacted in time and lifted himself to witness what loomed over him.


    He recognized the unreadable eyes of Ronner.


    There wasn¡¯t a smirk on his face. This time, Zeo saw grief, the same grief tearing his insides apart. For the first time, that beast looked human. ¡°Ronner,¡± Zeo mumbled, standing up and removing ashes from his skin and clothes.


    Ronner tilted his head, the fire flickering into his pupil. ¡°They took them,¡± he said.


    ¡°What?¡± Zeo gasped. ¡°Who? Why?¡±


    ¡°Viper and his men. They have Brisa and Remnya.¡±


    A cold shiver ran down Zeo¡¯s spine, almost stopping his heart. He shook his head in disbelief. ¡°How did you allow this to happen?¡± Zeo yelled, glaring at him.


    ¡°They set me a trap.¡±


    Just then, Zeo noticed Ronner¡¯s left arm. His hand was missing, and blood dripped from his exposed broken bones. Dried blood covered half his body, and several bullets had sunken into his skin. Zeo lifted his gaze. Ronner¡¯s right eye was gone, too.


    Trembling, Zeo fell to his knees and shook his head.


    Ronner chuckled. ¡°By the look on your face, I must look like shit.¡± He gripped his broken arm and used his lightning to cauterize the wound. ¡°I didn¡¯t notice it was bleeding again. Fuck, I guess I¡¯ll have to get used to fighting with one hand.¡±


    ¡°How did this happen?¡± Zeo murmured, his eyes locked on Ronner¡¯s broken body.


    ¡°This? Uh . . . Let¡¯s just say I found some old friends from Karx, and they had prepared a big party for me!¡± Ronner smirked. ¡°It was a huge army, led by an old friend called Balrok. I lost count of how many of those motherfuckers I killed. However,¡± He glanced at his missing arm, dangling aimlessly, ¡°they fought well, I¡¯ll give them that.¡±


    Zeo stood up, narrowing his eyes, and swallowed through the knot in his throat. ¡°I have to save Remnya,¡± Zeo said sharply.


    ¡°Oh, I know, so do I.¡± Ronner walked up to Zeo. ¡°I need to save Brisa and my son.¡±


    Zeo widened his eyes. ¡°Your son?¡±


    ¡°Yeah.¡± Ronner smiled. ¡°She¡¯s pregnant with my kid. Can you believe it?¡±


    Zeo scanned Ronner¡¯s bloody face, his smile was genuine, and his words dripped with joy. He was a monster, no doubt, but at that moment, Zeo saw another human being. Clenching his fists, Zeo took one step forward. ¡°Let¡¯s go, you need to treat those wounds before you can fight.¡±


    Ronner guffawed. ¡°Nonsense, kid. I¡¯m fine! My car is waiting for me outside, I was just looking for you. I¡¯ll take a few doctors with us, so they can fix me while we travel. It¡¯ll be a long trip, though.¡± Ronner hopped over a mountain of debris and fire and gestured at Zeo to follow him.


    ¡°Do you even know where they are?¡± Zeo rushed after him.


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    ¡°Yeah. Unfortunately, they took my plane and destroyed the rest. We¡¯ll need to travel by car, which will take longer.¡±


    Zeo tightened his lips and bobbed his head as he matched Ronner¡¯s pace through the flames. Wait for me, Rem. Soon, everything will be over.


    *¡ã*¡ã*


    Brisa


    Brisa woke up from her nightmare in an unknown room. Silence whistled in her ears as she saw herself lying on an old bed covered by a green blanket. The last thing in her blurry memory was the blood covering Remnya¡¯s face. Numbness invaded her body, but the pain was gone.


    She swept the room with wide-open eyes. A wooden roof and walls surrounded her, along with cobwebs swaying from a yellowish lamp. There was a rotten door, and everything smelled of pine and dampness. Brisa slapped the blanket off her and sprang out of her bed.


    Where is Remnya? Where? Brisa paced around the room, scanning every corner, her heart kicking against her chest.


    Halting in front of an ancient closet, Brisa concluded she wasn¡¯t in the mansion and that her nightmare was far from over.


    The door screeched as someone pushed it open. Brisa raised her fists, leaning her back against the wall, getting ready for the unknown. Two lifeless gray eyes landed on her.


    Viper.


    He stood still under the doorframe, scrutinizing her body. He tilted his head and sauntered over to her. ¡°How are you feeling?¡± Viper asked, too calm.


    ¡°I¡¯m fine,¡± Brisa replied, clenching her fists as she glared at him. ¡°Where¡¯s Remnya? Is she okay?¡±


    ¡°The Nephilim is okay, don¡¯t worry. She¡¯ll live . . . ¡° Viper took a deep breath, ¡°and so will my brother.¡±


    The damn bastard survived?


    Fury filled her chest. ¡°Ronner will kill you all,¡± Brisa said sharply. Any hesitation had already died that night.


    Surprise spread across Viper¡¯s face. He folded his arms and spoke, ¡°Unlikely.¡±


    ¡°Even if he¡¯s alive, your brother can¡¯t fight anymore. You¡¯re alone, and you¡¯ll die.¡± Every one of her words overflowed with hatred and venom.


    ¡°Do you really think we¡¯re alone, uh?¡± Viper took one step forward, but Brisa didn¡¯t move, her glare locking on him. ¡°I wouldn¡¯t have gone this far if I thought we didn¡¯t stand a chance.¡±


    ¡°You returned for your brother that night, instead of facing Ronner. You took us hostage because you knew you stood no chance against him.¡±


    ¡°Half-true, maid.¡± He leaned closer, his eyes cutting through her skin. ¡°Come with me and see it with your own eyes. I¡¯ll show you why Ronner is a dead man.¡± Viper turned his back to Brisa and beckoned at her to follow him.


    Brisa hesitated for a moment, but the image of Remnya flashed before her eyes. She had to save her little sister, even if that was the last thing she did.


    Straightening her back, Brisa took a deep breath and followed Viper.


    They walked through a narrow corridor. Old paintings hung from rotten wooden walls, and the floor screeched under Brisa¡¯s socks. At the end, there was a metal door. Viper unlocked it, and Brisa glimpsed long stairs leading to what seemed to be a basement.


    Brisa¡¯s heart raced in her chest as they descended toward a gloomy room that reeked of dust, decay, and a faint smell of roasted meat. Bright lights blinded her as she laid her feet on the cold stone floor at the end of the stairs. Right in a corner, she witnessed the most horrifying sight.


    Skado lay still on a metallic bed.


    He was unrecognizable; most of his skin had molten and fallen apart like candle wax. He was red and brown, trembling and groaning. His eyes and jaw were gone, and Brisa could see his teeth and tongue sticking out through the side of a lipless mouth. His chest expanded slowly as he tried to breathe through the holes left by his inexistent nose.


    Brisa covered her mouth as her nausea returned like a tempest, twisting her stomach with disgusting force. Cold sweat prickled on her body. Brisa crouched when the liquids in her stomach threatened to escape.


    ¡°Behold!¡± Viper shouted, pain in his voice, ¡°What your dear Nephilim is capable of! That little monster better be put to good use before she goes out of control.¡±


    ¡°You caused all this,¡± Brisa spat, holding back the pain in her stomach. ¡°You pushed her to this point! It¡¯s all your fucking fault!¡±


    Viper glared at her, clenching his fists. ¡°Look at him,¡± he ordered, but Brisa didn¡¯t move. Fury flashed in his eyes as he stomped toward her and grabbed her arm, yanking her upward to watch the horrible scene.


    Brisa slapped his hand away and looked. Not because he was forcing her to, but because she wanted to witness that monster in pain. Curse them all.


    ¡°I am looking!¡± she yelled, tears rolling down her cheeks. ¡°I am looking, you fucking asshole! What do you want me to say? That I am sorry?¡± Brisa walked closer to have a better look at that monstrous thing. ¡°I am glad,¡± she spoke from the bottom of her soul, ¡°I am glad he¡¯s like that. That monster deserved it more than anyone. I am glad he¡¯s dying and suffering!¡±


    Brisa didn¡¯t know when it happened, but she was lying on the floor with her mouth bleeding. Viper loomed over her with rage dripping out of his eyes. Though there was no pain, and she was glad. Brisa had never wished ill on anyone, but she was tired.


    So fucking tired.


    ¡°You¡¯re bold, maid, bolder than I thought. No wonder that twisted beast chose you.¡± Viper¡¯s voice was sharp but trembled, and his stone-cold face displayed grief. ¡°But you¡¯ll regret every one of your words sooner than you think.¡±


    Brisa grinned. ¡°If you kill me, Ronner will tear you apart.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m not that stupid.¡± Viper sauntered over to his brother and leaned his hand on his chest. Skado let out a muffled grunt but nothing else. ¡°Do you think I only returned to the mansion for you two?¡± He glanced over his shoulder at her. ¡°Doctor, come here!¡±


    Brisa stood up, shaking the dust off her dress and wiping blood off her mouth. She glared at every corner, trying to understand what Viper meant. The stairs clanked as a familiar figure walked down.


    Sagan, the doctor, strolled through the basement and stood next to Viper, who placed his hand over the old man¡¯s head as if he were his pet.


    ¡°You fucking traitor!¡± Brisa roared, her eyes drilling into Sagan¡¯s smug face. ¡°It was you who revealed our location! Coward!¡± Brisa grabbed a screwdriver lying on the floor and threw it at Sagan¡¯s face. Viper caught it before it stabbed the doctor¡¯s eye.


    ¡°I¡¯m sorry, my lady, but I value my life more than any of you,¡± Sagan said as a timid smile escaped his wrinkled lips.


    ¡°Unlike you all, Sagan was smart,¡± Viper added, caressing the doctor¡¯s head. ¡°He knew where true power resided. We offered him way more than Ronner would ever dare to give him.¡±


    ¡°I had to choose between being Ronner¡¯s slave, or aiming higher and becoming the right hand of our next governor, Cassius Doman.¡± He glanced at Viper proudly.


    ¡°Fucking stupid! I should¡¯ve never trusted you!¡± Brisa shouted. Tears burned her eyes, but she wouldn¡¯t let them escape in front of him. ¡°You chose to be their pet instead! The pet of two sick monsters! A fucking pedophile and this one¡ª¡° Brisa stopped, out of words. How much worse were they compared to Ronner? How much worse was Viper? Not long ago, she would¡¯ve agreed Ronner was just as bad, if not worse. But now, she truly believed Ronner could change for the better. At least with her help.


    ¡°I¡¯m sorry, my lady,¡± Sagan said, lowering his gaze.


    ¡°It¡¯s too late for regrets, maid.¡± Viper raised his voice. ¡°That night, I returned to the mansion for you, the Nephilim, and,¡± he patted Sagan¡¯s back, ¡°the Netomics he retrieved for us.¡±


    ¡°What?¡± Brisa widened her eyes.


    ¡°That¡¯s right. We have the Netomics with us, and with Sagan¡¯s help, we¡¯ll use them. Unfortunately, most of them will have to be used on my brother. The Netomics will be enough to heal him and enhance his powers. Soon, Skado will recover his strength.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s impossible . . . ¡° Brisa murmured, refusing to believe his words. ¡°No way he can recover from this!¡±


    ¡°Oh, it¡¯s possible,¡± Sagan added, grinning. ¡°It¡¯ll just take a few days with the right treatment.¡±


    ¡°Ronner will find you before that.¡± Brisa¡¯s lips quivered.


    ¡°He won¡¯t,¡± Viper assured. ¡°We made sure to send him to the wrong place.¡±


    ¡°What makes you think you could fool him?¡±


    ¡°Want to bet?¡± Viper walked toward her. Brisa tightened her lips, not knowing what to believe or think anymore. Viper loomed over her, the reek of death reaching her nose. ¡°He has no plane. There¡¯s no way he can cover so many kilometers in less than four days by car. That¡¯s enough time for us to finish healing my brother.¡±


    Brisa lowered her gaze, her mind going blank. Even her heart had gone silent.


    She caressed her abdomen and thought of Remnya. ¡°You can try,¡± Brisa said, locking her eyes on Viper as a fire lit up her soul. ¡°But . . . you¡¯ll be dead on the fourth day. That¡¯s my promise.¡±


    *¡ã*¡ã*

 35: Snakebite

    Remnya


    Darkness and silence.


    Those were Remnya¡¯s only friends in her agony. She lay on a gelid metal bed with her limbs restrained by unyielding locks, cutting through her skin like knives. The reek of decay, merged with the scent of damp, filled her nose in what seemed to be the bowels of hell.


    At times, Remnya slept and dreamed of childish memories until nightmares woke her up, screaming and crying as she remembered her misery. Her blood was fresh and cold, dripping from her open wounds.


    How long had she been lying there?


    Her eyes had gone dry from crying. She thought of Brisa and Zeo. How much she wanted to hug them and feel their warmth. Were they even alive? Remnya would¡¯ve traded her life to make sure they lived. Not even the pain in her body could overshadow the pain in her heart, but she refused to cry another day. It was pointless.


    As usual, her feelings were pointless.


    Even her fire had abandoned her. Every time Remnya tried to summon it, only sparks spat from her numb fingers. Two devices that felt like tight leather gloves around her hands suppressed her powers.


    Silence.


    A door opened, and an intense light burned Remnya¡¯s eyes, assuring her she was still alive.


    Soft steps drew closer, and a long shadow loomed over her. Remnya¡¯s heart raced as she tried to discern the face of what seemed to be her grim reaper.


    Has my time come?


    ¡°Drink, little girl,¡± a soothing voice whispered, pushing a straw between her dry lips.


    No, it¡¯s not my time yet.


    Remnya sucked through the straw with all her strength, putting out the fire in her throat.


    ¡°Easy there,¡± he said, taking the straw away.


    ¡°I¡¯m thirsty!¡± Remnya yelled, cocking her head to reach the water source.


    ¡°You need to take it easy, or it¡¯ll be bad for you.¡±


    Remnya clenched her teeth. ¡°I don¡¯t recognize your voice.¡±


    ¡°You don¡¯t know me, but I know you, young lady.¡±


    The man stepped aside, allowing the light to reveal his face. ¡°My name is Danny. I was one of your servants.¡±


    Only then, Remnya recognized him. Long blonde hair and a delicate face. She had seen him around Viper a lot before. ¡°Why are you here?¡± she asked as confusion invaded her mind.


    ¡°You need water and food. That¡¯s why I am here,¡± Danny replied, smiling as he approached the straw again.


    She took a deep sip before he took it away. ¡°Why would they allow you to be here?¡± Remnya was panting, the pain pulsating against her insides.


    Danny let out a deep sigh. ¡°Let¡¯s just say, Cassius trusts me.¡±


    ¡°Cassius? You mean Viper.¡± Remnya scowled. ¡°So, you¡¯re with them.¡± Her thirst was suddenly gone, and anger rose through her chest.


    ¡°I can¡¯t blame you for hating him, but I do know Cassius is not as bad as you think.¡±


    ¡°He¡¯s a monster! Just like his brother, and probably, you¡¯re the same!¡± Remnya glared at him and then closed her eyes, jolting against the metal restraining her wrists, drawing more blood.


    ¡°I¡¯m sorry,¡± Danny murmured, pressing his hands against her forearms, trying to stop her reckless movements. ¡°I don¡¯t expect you to trust me, but please allow me to help you.¡±


    ¡°If you want to help me, free me!¡±


    Danny¡¯s lips tightened. ¡°I can try to convince Cassius to free you from this horrible place, but you need to promise me you¡¯ll keep your powers suppressed.¡±


    ¡°Even if I promised that, you wouldn¡¯t believe me . . . ¡°


    ¡°You¡¯re a good person, young lady, I know that. But if I free you, and you do something reckless. I won¡¯t be able to protect you anymore.¡±


    Remnya took her time to digest his words. Why was he trying to help her?


    ¡°No one can protect me,¡± Remnya murmured through gritted teeth, and in anger, she tried to kick against the metal restraining her legs.


    Only then she realized her body had died from the waist down. Remnya had convinced herself it was a nightmare, but glimpsing at her motionless legs, she understood it was real.


    ¡°I can¡¯t feel my legs anymore . . . ¡° Remnya confessed as hot tears filled her eyes. ¡°Do you think I¡¯ll run away? I can¡¯t even do that!¡± Tears trailed down her face, landing against the cold metal.


    Danny leaned closer and scanned her face and body, grimacing at her horrible wounds. ¡°Please, don¡¯t try anything reckless.¡± With trembling hands, he drew a remote control from his pocket. ¡°If you behave, I promise you they won¡¯t hurt you.¡±


    Remnya lifted her irritated eyes at him. The young man was honest, no doubt, and stupid too. She nodded.


    ¡°I used to be terrified of Cassius, but . . . ¡° Danny pressed a button, and the first lock opened around her right wrist. ¡°He¡¯s shown me he¡¯s not a bad man. He¡¯s thousands of times better than his sick brother, and much better than Ronner too.¡±


    ¡°Is he, uh? Why am I here then?¡± Remnya asked bitterly and bit her lower lip, feeling how hatred filled her heart.


    ¡°You were on the verge of death when we found you. He saved your life.¡± A clank resounded in her ears, and the second lock opened. Her hands were free. ¡°But he was too afraid of your powers, Remnya.¡± Danny rushed to cradle her hands between his and rubbed her wrists and fingers, easing the pain with great ability. She felt how the blood flowed again through her veins.


    ¡°I¡¯m sorry things went this way.¡± He unlocked all the remaining locks at once.


    Danny wrapped his arms around her back and carefully eased her body from the platform, helping her to sit up. He began to massage all her muscles and joints. Remnya could feel his tender touch, relieving the pain, except on her lifeless legs.


    ¡°Is Brisa okay?¡± Remnya murmured, sniffling and wiping her tears as she stared into his eyes.


    ¡°She seemed okay to me, better than I imagined.¡± Danny grabbed a damp rag and cleaned the blood from Remnya¡¯s arms and legs.


    ¡°Can I see her?¡±


    Danny averted his eyes. ¡°I don¡¯t think that¡¯s possible for now . . . but I¡¯ll talk with Cassius about it.¡±


    ¡°Thank you,¡± Remnya muttered, taking a deep breath as he removed the gloves around her hands. I wonder if I can use my fire again. Her eyes scanned the young man in front of her. He looked so small and vulnerable. It would just take a good punch to send him unconscious, and then she could find a way to escape. She knew Skado was wounded, so all she had to do was take Viper down.


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    And everything would be over.


    And everything will be over . . .


    A small flame crackled in Remnya¡¯s right hand. Danny widened his eyes, flinching away from her as fear spread across his face.


    ¡°I¡¯m sorry, Danny,¡± Remnya mumbled, aiming her fire at him.


    ¡°Remnya?¡± Danny murmured, trembling and pupils dilating as he took one step backward. ¡°Please, Remnya . . . I know you¡¯re hurting and think there¡¯s no other way out of this, but,¡± He gulped, ¡°I also know you¡¯re not like this.¡±


    ¡°Am I not?¡± The fire spat sparks, and the heat increased, lighting the whole room in a flickering crimson glow, caressing Danny¡¯s face.


    ¡°You¡¯re not like this . . . ¡° He shook his head, pleading for mercy.


    Remnya chuckled weakly. ¡°You¡¯re right,¡± she said, her voice fading as the fire vanished.


    ¡°I am not like this. I don¡¯t want to be like this . . . ¡° Remnya¡¯s voice cracked as all the accumulated grief hit her at once like an avalanche of pain and sorrow. Her eyes turned into a stream of tears racing down her cheeks.


    Danny wrapped his arms around her and caressed her bruised back. Her whole body trembled as she tried to muffle her sobs against his shoulder. He didn¡¯t say a word, but a hug was all Remnya needed at that moment; the warmth of another human being, not willing to hurt her.


    ¡°I¡¯m not a monster . . . I didn¡¯t want to do it . . . I never wanted to hurt anyone . . . ¡°


    ¡°I¡¯m sorry!¡±


    *¡ã*¡ã*


    Brisa


    A tear trailed down Brisa¡¯s cheek, but she quickly wiped it away.


    Be strong, she repeated, even if your heart falls apart.


    The orange glow of an ancient hearth flickered on Brisa¡¯s glistening eyes. She was sitting on the ragged couch of a discrete living room. The furniture was scarce and old, and a thick layer of dust covered the black floor tiles. Danny paced over the place, carrying plates and cups between his hands. He filled a mug with green tea and offered it to Brisa, who took it with a suspicious glance.


    ¡°The young lady is recovering well,¡± Danny assured as he covered a couch with a clean blanket, hiding bloodstains. He sat. ¡°And I¡¯ll do everything I can to help her.¡±


    Brisa¡¯s hands trembled with anger as she sipped the hot tea steaming against her nose. ¡°You were with them all along.¡±


    Danny straightened his back and brushed a strand of hair off his face. ¡°No.¡± His sky-blue eyes halted on hers. ¡°I met Cassius long ago when Persen used to frequent the mansion, but I had no idea about all this.¡±


    ¡°Now you do, yet you support them.¡± She glared at him, swallowing the last drop of tea.


    ¡°I don¡¯t support this, but this is a situation none of us have control over,¡± Danny replied, his voice and lips quivering. ¡°Would it be fair for me to say you support Ronner, too, Brisa?¡±


    Brisa clenched her fists and sprang from her seat. ¡°It doesn¡¯t look like you¡¯re being forced to do any of this!¡±


    He gritted his teeth and lowered his gaze, locking it on the floor. His voice trembled, ¡°I didn¡¯t choose this either. What can you do when the person you love is trying to destroy himself?¡±


    Brisa slammed her hands against the glass desk. ¡°Stop him! I don¡¯t care if he destroys himself, but don¡¯t sacrifice innocent lives because of your fucking twisted love!¡±


    Cold silence.


    Tears trailed down Danny¡¯s cheek. ¡°And you think I¡¯ve not tried? Every single day?¡± He sniffled. ¡°I kept telling him to stop, that this was a mistake, that his brother would carry everyone to hell, but he never understood. Cassius truly believes he can do the right thing, despite this chaos.¡± Danny stood and walked up to Brisa. He leaned a trembling hand on her shoulder. ¡°I¡¯m doing everything I can . . . but I am just a man. None of us chose this fate. You have no idea how much I¡¯ve cried for the past nights, for the past months.¡±


    Brisa took a deep breath and grabbed his hand. ¡°We¡¯ve always been pawns in a game played by monsters.¡± Her voice was soft but with an edge to it. ¡°But I need to help Remnya . . . ¡° Brisa buried her nails into his skin and glared at him. ¡°And I will do anything it takes for her.¡±


    Danny tightened his lips and bobbed his head.


    Heavy footsteps coming from a doorway made Brisa flinch and return to her seat. Danny rushed to wipe his tears with a handkerchief and forced a smile across his face.


    Viper walked into the room, scowling at every corner, deep eye bags under his irritated eyes. His stone face softened at the sight of his man.


    ¡°Have you been crying again?¡± Viper asked sharply, trying to hide the concern in his tone. He stood in front of them.


    ¡°Yes, but don¡¯t worry. It will pass,¡± Danny assured, beaming at him.


    Viper caressed his cheek and scanned his face with piercing gray eyes. ¡°It¡¯ll be over soon.¡± His voice was soothing now.


    ¡°I trust it will.¡± Danny gripped his hand.


    Brisa was gaping at them, unable to believe Viper¡¯s behavior. He almost resembled a human being.


    ¡°She¡¯s coming soon,¡± Viper said, his voice recovering its powerful rasp. ¡°Get ready, Dan, and remember everything I told you.¡±


    Danny bobbed his head, and Viper returned a smile before striding out of the room. Brisa¡¯s eyes were wide open when Danny turned to face her.


    ¡°Unfortunately, we got a guest tonight,¡± he admitted, sitting next to her as defeat spread across his face.


    ¡°A guest? Who is it?¡±


    ¡°You¡¯ll see soon.¡± Danny twisted his lips and caressed Brisa¡¯s hand. ¡°For your own safety, don¡¯t say a single word. She doesn¡¯t like it when people talk.¡±


    Brisa swallowed. She had too many questions but preferred to follow the simpler rules and do as he said. She had learned to remain quiet and pretty a long time ago.


    A stained clock on the wall marked midnight when Viper rushed into the living room. He wore his classic black suit, and his long hair was perfectly slicked back.


    ¡°You look so handsome, Cassius,¡± Danny said, winking at him as he adjusted his tie.


    ¡°Shut up,¡± Viper replied, hiding a smirk.


    They waited next to the entrance door and peeked outside through a narrow window.


    ¡°Remember what I told you. Remain calm and no eye contact.¡± Viper leaned closer, narrowing his eyes until Danny nodded.


    The roar of a car filled the night. Viper rushed to unlock the door and adjusted his suit to welcome the unknown visitor.


    A gelid gust of wind hit Brisa as the door burst open, and then black leather boots slammed against the floor, raising a cloud of dust.


    A tall lady stood under the doorframe, frowning as Viper and Danny bowed to her. She wore all black. Tight leather pants fastened by a thick belt; its buckle was a five-pointed silver star with sapphires. A heavy coat fell to her ankles, and a star-shaped emblem sparkled with a blue gleam on her right shoulder. Her hair was short with the color of amber, and her eyes, lifeless.


    ¡°Captain Alayna, welcome,¡± Viper said politely and grinned.


    She rolled her eyes and swept the room with a quick glare, ignoring them. ¡°This is a pigsty.¡± Her voice was sharp and deep.


    ¡°I apologize, my lady, but we had no time to clean. We barely made it out of the mansion alive.¡±


    Alayna scoffed and paced around the room. Finally, her lime-green eyes landed on Brisa like a punch. ¡°Is this his girl?¡±


    ¡°Yes,¡± Viper replied, glancing at her.


    Alayna walked up to Brisa and loomed over her with a contemptuous gaze. She looked like a giant. Brisa¡¯s throat closed as her heart tried to escape her chest; that woman¡¯s presence reminded her of Skado.


    ¡°She¡¯s a simple human woman!¡± Alayna exclaimed, disbelief and mockery in her voice. She crouched to look into Brisa¡¯s eyes; her orbs were two needles piercing her soul. A bead of sweat rolled down Brisa¡¯s forehead when she noticed a horn sprouting out from the left side of her head.


    Alayna sneered. ¡°So, this is the reason Ronner will die for?¡± She guffawed, her teeth sparkling in yellow and silver.


    Viper forced a smile and nodded. ¡°She¡¯s carrying his spawn too.¡±


    ¡°Interesting.¡± Alayna stretched her arms and tilted her head, cracking her neck. ¡°Well, I honestly don¡¯t care. We came here for what¡¯s ours.¡±


    Viper¡¯s face changed. ¡°With all due respect, that wasn¡¯t the deal.¡±


    Alayna scowled. ¡°We agreed to help you kill Ronner, and we¡¯ll take your mansions in exchange. Sounds pretty simple to me.¡±


    Viper straightened his back. ¡°My father had a long history of mutual cooperation with you. He helped you rise among the ranks of The Hunters.¡± He cleared his throat as the tone of his voice raised. ¡°We never requested anything from you, despite the countless favors you requested from us.¡±


    Alayna darted toward Viper like an arrow and snatched his neck, slamming his body against the wall. ¡°Are you telling me we owe you?¡± She gritted her teeth as her eyes penetrated into him. Danny flinched and took one step forward, but Viper ordered him to stay quiet with a glare.


    ¡°No,¡± Viper grumbled. ¡°I¡¯m just asking you one favor. You have so much more to win here.¡±


    ¡°Such as?¡± Alayna increased the pressure against his neck. ¡°We can take your fortune and your life. All it¡¯d take is a word from me.¡±


    ¡°Yes, but,¡± Viper gripped her wrist, struggling to push her hand away. ¡°You can¡¯t defeat Debrin Kavram without our help.¡±


    Alayna released his neck, dropping Viper on the floor. He coughed, gasping for air. ¡°I¡¯m listening,¡± she said with contempt.


    Viper chuckled. ¡°No matter how strong you are, you need money to fund a powerful army.¡± He stood up, caressing his neck, where a red bruise had formed. ¡°You also need power over the masses. Your army has strength, but lacks power and money. If you attack Debrin Kavram, what do you think will happen?¡±


    Alayna¡¯s face was stone.


    ¡°With Ronner¡¯s money and our help, you¡¯ll be able to buy wills, opinions, and warriors. Who knows, you could even find a pure Nephilim out there.¡± Viper smirked. ¡°How many armies do you think we could build? I might become the future governor of this dirty town, and I can use my connections to open the gates for your army. You need us, Captain Alayna.¡±


    Alayna stared at him for a moment, twisting her mulberry lips. ¡°Very well.¡± She spat on the ground next to Viper¡¯s feet. ¡°Let¡¯s see if that¡¯s true. First things first, we need to eradicate Ronner from the face of Earth.¡±


    ¡°It should be easy with your help.¡±


    ¡°I wouldn¡¯t underestimate that bastard. He took down an entire army alone.¡±


    ¡°He¡¯s probably wounded. He stands no chance against you, trust me.¡±


    ¡°I hope so.¡± She clenched her fists, glaring at Viper. ¡°That asshole needs to pay for what he did to me . . . ¡°


    ¡°He will . . . with every drop of his blood.¡±


    Alayna returned a look of contempt and began walking toward the door.


    ¡°One more thing,¡± she said, halting under the doorframe. She glanced over her shoulder at Brisa and smirked.


    ¡°We¡¯ll take his bitch with us.¡±


    *¡ã*¡ã*

 36: Fate

    Zeo


    Memories vanished into embers and ashes. The legendary Lovecraft Mansion crumbled like a paper castle, devoured by fire. Gold and diamonds melted along with sand and debris; hell didn''t discriminate between gems and rocks.


    An orange glow flickered in Zeo''s eyes as he took one last glimpse at his past, knowing he would probably never return. Ronner waited for him in his old black limousine. Zeo hopped into the armored vehicle and nodded at his new ally, who gestured at the driver to move.


    The powerful motor roared as they advanced through the front garden. Zeo leaned his face against the cold window, allowing his thoughts to wander away. Ronner sat on the opposite side with two doctors in front of him: a man and a woman, who used electrodes to cauterize his wounds and fixed his broken arm.


    "Can you control your Vectors now?" Ronner asked calmly, ignoring the knives slicing his skin.


    "Vectors?" Zeo replied as the city lights flashed before his eyes. "I don''t know. That was the first time I did something like that."


    "Those spectral arms you summoned are called Vectors. It''s a telekinetic ability that turns the matter around you into conductors of electric impulses connected to your brain."


    Zeo blinked, processing his words. "Vectors," he repeated, staring at his own hands.


    "They''re rooted in your brain." Ronner flinched and gritted his teeth as the doctor cauterized his empty eye socket. "When you try to use them again, focus your energy on your head. Nor your arms, nor your legs. Your head."


    Zeo nodded and tried to remember what he felt that night when Remnya was in danger. Pain, despair, and what else?


    "Anger," he murmured, glancing at Ronner. "I felt unrestrained anger. Something I had never felt before."


    "Then, get angry, kid." Ronner smirked while the female doctor injected a metal syringe into his neck. "Ah, that feels much better."


    "I am already furious!" Zeo raised his voice, slamming his fist against the car door. "I want to kill Skado with my own hands!" His eyes reflected a deathly glow.


    Ronner turned to him, smiling from ear to ear. "You''re bold, no doubt, and too stupid too." He gestured at the male doctor, who reached for his medical bag. "My man here will give you something to help you use that fury efficiently."


    Zeo widened his eyes as the man drew a massive syringe with a green liquid. "What''s that?"


    "We call it LCT, or Liquid Cells of Tritium." Ronner chuckled. "Once injected into your veins, it''ll give you a massive boost of energy and power along with immunity to pain."


    The doctor sat next to Zeo, swirling the syringe between his fingers. "Mr. Ronner is right, and you better know this is extremely painful too," the doctor warned, scanning his bruised body. "It literally burns through your veins and muscles, and I can''t assure you won''t have a seizure followed by a heart attack."


    Zeo pulled down his shirt, exposing his neck. "Do it. I don''t care about the consequences."


    "However," Ronner interrupted as the female doctor handed him his new clothes, "the effects might take a few hours to kick in. We should be knocking at their door by then. That idiot thought he could fool me." Ronner guffawed.


    "How did you track them so fast?"


    "Brisa," Ronner said, a hint of frustration in his voice. "She carries a diminutive device in her pendant. Neither Sagan nor Viper knows about it. We were lucky that Remnya''s fire didn''t melt it, though. Her fire control is even more impressive than I thought."


    "Never underestimate Remnya." Zeo glared at him.


    Ronner smiled. "Anyway, I asked Belo to place the tracker in Brisa''s pendant before I left." He made a long pause. "That fella was a good soldier."


    Zeo stared at Ronner for a moment. "He was and deserves a proper burial."


    "He will have it."


    Zeo''s eyes landed on the doctor beside him, who stared at them in confusion. "What are you waiting for?" Zeo shouted, scowling at him. "Do it!"


    The man rushed to approach the syringe to his skin. "Breath," he suggested, shoving the titanium needle into his aorta vein. Zeo bit his lips and clenched his fists as a burning sensation filled his neck, spreading throughout his body like acid. His veins turned brown, and his muscles stiff like rocks.


    His eyes glistened as the pain almost made him scream, but Zeo gritted his teeth with all his strength. He wouldn''t let it out. He wasn''t a coward.


    "You''re a true Anglish," Ronner complimented him, smirking. "The first time someone injected that shit into me, I cried like a little girl." He chuckled, grabbing a blue eyepatch from the female doctor''s hands. He tried it on. "Does it look good on me?"


    The pain blurred the reality around Zeo as he gazed at Ronner, and dizziness haunted his mind. "Yes," he mumbled, closing his eyes and slamming his head against the window.


    "By the way, I noticed you can control Air too."


    "What are you talking about?" Zeo''s voice weakened, feeling his stomach twisting and contracting with spasms.


    "It seems to be your element. I thought you controlled vectors through Electricity, much like me, but no, Air is your nature. So you better take advantage of it, it''ll save your ass and Remnya''s."


    Zeo''s head was light, and nausea threatened his insides, but he focused on Ronner''s words. "How do I do that?"


    "Wish I knew, I can only control electricity." Ronner dragged himself closer to Zeo and leaned a heavy hand on his shoulder, shaking his body violently to keep him awake. "You''ll need to feel it, kid. We''re surrounded by air. Use your instincts. Speak with the wind, and while you are at it, try to stay alive." Ronner reached out for the control panel of the car door and opened Zeo''s window, allowing the warm breeze of the night to fill the interior.


    "Understood," Zeo whispered as the wind messed up his hair. He focused his mind on his goal, saving Remnya. Nothing else mattered.


    "I can do it . . . I will do it."


    You''re not a coward.


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    Zeo recognized her sweet voice in the distance, caressing his ears. Her pink lips, whispering his name. Her crimson eyes, waiting to see him again. Her silky hair tangled around his fingers.


    And the warmth of her delicate body between his arms.


    I am not a coward.


    His eyes opened.


    The city lights had vanished, and deep darkness surrounded everything around him, except for the car headlights, glaring at the endless road. Shy stars twinkled on the horizon behind the uneven shadow of trees and distant hills. The moon hadn''t risen yet. Zeo stretched his hand out the window and opened his fingers, feeling the wind running through his skin.


    Please, lend me your power tonight . . .


    If I can save Remnya, I promise you . . .


    I''ll be eternally yours . . .


    . . .


    . . . Lord of Darkness.


    *¡ã*¡ã*


    Brisa


    Tense silence froze the night. Brisa stood still, her gaze fixed on Alayna''s lifeless eyes, digging into her soul. A cold bead of sweat rolled down her forehead as Alayna took the first step in her direction. Brisa masked the terror with a glare and clenched her fists. She had learned to stare death in the eyes long ago.


    The seconds felt like hours.


    Viper stepped in front of Alayna, obstructing her path. "No," he said sharply.


    Alayna halted, scanning Viper from head to toe with contempt. He was one head shorter than her. "No?" Her eyes reddened with anger.


    "His woman stays with us." Viper''s voice rasped.


    Alayna sniggered and combed her short wild hair backward. She looked down her nose at him and nodded ironically. "Are you the one giving orders now, little snake?"


    "No, I''m trying to do what is best for every one of us." He scowled. "Captain Alayna, I know what you''re thinking, but hurting her won''t give you an edge over Ronner. On the contrary, it''ll just make him stronger."


    She stepped forward, her boot slamming against the floor. "Move." Her voice was a suppressed thunder.


    Viper took a deep breath, puffing his chest, standing his ground like a giant. "Listen to me, Captain, this is a mistake!"


    Faster than sound, Alayna''s fist crushed Viper''s jaw, sending him like a rock against the wall. The wood shattered as his body was buried into a net of splinters and bent metal. Danny ran to him.


    "Pathetic fool, you think you''re gonna tell me what to do?" She spat on the floor and dashed to Brisa. Alayna snatched her arm and yanked her toward her.


    Brisa gazed deep into her dilated pupils, refusing to give in to fear. "Do whatever you want," Brisa muttered, her lips quivering, "but please, allow my baby to live. That''s all I am asking you."


    Alayna''s eyes were two voids. "I don''t give a shit about your spawn. It has Ronner''s blood, he''ll be a disgusting thing. Why would I allow it to live?"


    Brisa glared at her, hatred burning her insides. "Do you still have some humanity left, Captain?" Brisa swallowed, gritting her teeth as she held back the will to spit on her face. "Ronner raped me. I never had a choice, like I''m sure you never did either. Yet, this baby is my only reason to continue and see the light at the end of the tunnel. Do you think I don''t hate him just as much as you do?" Brisa''s voice was a tangled net of lies and truths, flowing out of her mouth like a furious river.


    Alayna''s grip around her arm softened, and her face displayed hesitation for a second. Brisa knew that woman wasn''t completely gone yet.


    "I''m just asking you this favor. Don''t be worse than Ronner, don''t stoop down to his level. We are both women trying to survive in a cruel world ruled by men. I might be an inferior human for you, yes, but I also know what true pain is."


    Alayna released her arm and tilted her head, scrutinizing Brisa in silence. She took a deep breath before speaking, "What''s your name, woman?"


    "Brisa."


    "Okay, Brisa," Alayna murmured as her pupils connected with Brisa''s in what seemed a test of life and death. "For a human, you''re brave." She leaned closer, twisting her lips. "Be honest with me. How far is Ronner willing to go for you?"


    Her question triggered a tempest of doubts in Brisa''s heart. She knew Ronner would come for her no matter what, but she also knew telling the truth would give Alayna an edge over him.


    A lie could mean her death.


    The truth could mean everyone''s death.


    Brisa gathered the courage to speak the words that would seal her fate. "Ronner will come for me," she murmured, her heart hitting against her throat, making her voice tremble, "he loves me after all."


    Alayna dug into her soul with a penetrating stare. The silence seemed to last hours.


    She finally spoke. "I can''t assure your life, human woman, but," Alayna twisted her lips into a half-smile, "I can assure you Ronner will be dead soon."


    The captain turned to look at Viper. He leaned against the wall, blood dripping from his nose, staining his suit.


    "You all passed my test." Alayna let out a cackle, her voice echoing throughout the room. "If what my men say is true, Ronner will be here sooner than expected. You totally failed to fool that asshole."


    Brisa''s heart raced at her words.


    "What do you mean?" Viper asked, widening his eyes as if his worst fears were confirmed.


    "Somehow, that bastard tracked you. I knew this before coming here." Alayna shook her head in disappointment. "His woman will stay here, and so will we. The rest of the plan will proceed as we agreed."


    Viper lowered his gaze, resignation spreading across his face. That was the sight of a defeated man. "Danny," he said, his voice thin like a thread. "Take Brisa to the underground bunker and get everything ready."


    Danny gaped at him, and tears threatened his eyes. He shook his head. "Please, don''t do this . . ."


    "Shut up and leave!" Viper roared, his eyes flickering with anger and sorrow, refusing to look at Danny.


    Silence.


    Danny stared at him for a moment and then bobbed his head. "I''ll be waiting for you," he murmured, ruffling his hair with trembling fingers. Danny turned to face Brisa, a tear trailing down his left cheek. He walked up to her and reached out for her hand. "Please, come with me."


    Brisa held her breath and looked at Alayna. The woman returned an assuring, approving glance and folded her arms. Brisa knew she would live another day. She followed Danny. Too many questions invaded her mind, but there was no time for them.


    Death waited for no one.


    Several metal stairs led back to the narrow underground corridors where Skado still lived. They took an alternative route and rushed to the last floor. Danny''s tears had dried on his cheeks, and his eyes were fixated straight ahead, refusing to look behind. Brisa felt his pain reaching her own soul, spreading like poison.


    "Do you want to see her?" Danny asked, his voice empty.


    "W-what?" Brisa stuttered, and then his question hit her like a punch. "I do! I want to see Remnya more than anything!"


    "Alright."


    Brisa was panting, and her legs burned with fatigue, but her spirit was alive, craving to see her little sister again.


    They reached the last room through a dark, crumbling hallway. A heavy atmosphere lingered in that place, and oxygen was scarce. Halting in front of a massive metal door, Danny typed a command on a green touchscreen.


    The locks clanked, releasing a gust of wind against their faces as the door opened.


    A small room was on the other side, poorly lit by a single fluorescent lamp. The scent of mold and dust filled Brisa''s nose. Right on a corner, there was a bed, and under a blood-stained blanket, Brisa witnessed the sleeping face of her little sister.


    Tears trailed down Brisa''s eyes as she ran to Remnya and wrapped her arms around her motionless, bruised body. Her heart calmed, and her mind assured her everything was okay. Brisa cried in silence as Remnya''s warmth healed the scars in her soul with the purest form of love.


    The peace lasted for a moment.


    "Brisa," Danny whispered, standing behind her. His eyes were full of tears too. "I''m sorry . . . " His sobbing didn''t allow him to speak anymore.


    "I understand, Danny," Brisa murmured, sniffling. "I understand it very well . . . " Carefully, she eased Remnya back on the bed and wiped her tears, refusing to take her eyes away from her sister. "This is the last time I''ll see her, am I right?"


    Danny trembled and closed his eyes, clenching his fists until his knuckles turned white. He nodded.


    "I see." Brisa ruffled Remnya''s hair. "Alayna knows nothing about Rem, right?"


    He swallowed and stuttered his words, "She doesn''t. If she knew, it would be the end for all of us."


    "What will happen to Rem after I''m gone?" She turned to face him, peace in her eyes.


    "Viper promised me to send her away. Unlike his brother, he doesn''t care about power. He just wants peace."


    "Where?"


    "The Silver Army of Karx." Danny crouched next to Brisa, fixing his eyes on Remnya. "Debrin Kavram''s army."


    "Is it safe there?"


    "It''s the safest place for someone like her." He rubbed Brisa''s back. "She''ll go on to live a great life as a true Nephilim."


    "Bless your souls if that''s true," Brisa said, smiling at him, and grabbed his hand. "What will happen to you?"


    Danny shrugged, smiling back. "If we happen to survive, we''ll go far away." His eyes shone with hope. "Perhaps, we can be happy somewhere else. Otherwise, I don''t mind dying with him."


    "You will live." Brisa raised her voice, squeezing Danny''s hand. "And so will I . . . "


    "Even if the whole world falls apart, tomorrow will be the day we choose our fate."


    *¡ã*¡ã*

 37: Purgatory

    Zeo


    Zeo hopped out of the car, a numb sensation traveling throughout his body. The burn across his chest was fading, and his arms and legs twitched as every muscle regenerated. He glanced around, witnessing total darkness, except for the scarlet glow of a full moon rising behind the shadows of the forest.


    Ronner stretched his arm and cracked his neck. An eyepatch covered half of his face, hiding his gloomy expression.


    "We''ll continue on foot," Ronner said as he opened the trunk of his car. Zeo nodded, gazing into the mountain forest ahead of them. "You might need this." Ronner walked up to Zeo and shoved a shotgun into his hands. "Aim for the chest for a more effective shot."


    Zeo gripped the weapon and fastened a leather strap around his torso, holding the shotgun tightly against his back.


    Ronner grabbed a couple of Kevlar vests and tossed one at Zeo. Finally, he whispered something to the driver and the doctors, who nodded and bowed to him. They remained by the car while Ronner gestured at Zeo to follow him into their chosen fate.


    Before taking the first step, Zeo lifted his eyes at the sky for a moment. The stars stared back at him, and the breeze caressed his hair.


    That night, the boy would turn into a man.


    Climbing down a slope, they left the road and broke into the forest. Only shy moonbeams seeping through thick canopies guided them through the darkness. Ronner had left all his electronic devices behind, fearing his enemies would be able to detect radio signals. However, Brisa''s location seemed burned into his memory. Despite his feelings, Zeo had to trust the man who had caused them so much pain.


    After one hour of fighting their way through unwelcoming vegetation, the forest opened, and the trees became scarcer, slowly replaced by short, thorny bushes. The terrain took a steep fall into a hill, and the soil turned into sand and rocks, making the ground slippery. Zeo balanced himself not to roll down into the abyss. Ronner went ahead, jumping between rocks with great agility.


    Stumbling, Zeo made his way to the bottom of the hill, where grass grew again and dead oaks loomed nearby. Ronner stood still, scanning their surroundings for a while.


    "I feel no one, but of course, they''re waiting for us," Ronner whispered and crouched to caress the ground. He dug his fingers into the soil and frowned. "Figures. They''re not as stupid as they look."


    Zeo widened his eyes.


    "They choose a place where I can''t take full advantage of my powers. I can''t conduct electricity through this dry, soft terrain."


    Zeo scrutinized the landscape ahead. An endless plain faded into the mountains, an open field where they would be easy targets.


    "Ronner, were you trying to use your electricity to attack them by surprise?"


    Ronner chuckled. "No, kiddo. I was gonna use my magnetic field to detect their presence. All living beings emit radiation, and my body can react to it, but in order to do so, I need to use the ground as a conductor."


    "We need to get closer," Zeo suggested.


    "No. That''s what they want from us." Ronner caressed his chin, glancing left and right. "Your skill could come in handy now, though."


    "What can I do?"


    "I told you, you can control Air."


    "Yeah." Zeo twisted his lips. "But I have no idea how."


    "I''m sure you can feel the vibrations in the air. Close your eyes, and try to perceive the changes in the atmosphere." Zeo let out a sigh of frustration. Ronner rolled his eyes and leaned closer. "Aren''t you smart, kiddo? Plus, you know Remnya better than anyone. You know how her body reacts to the air. Maybe not directly, but unconsciously, your brain and vectors know it."


    Zeo clenched his fists and nodded. "I will try."


    "Do it!" Ronner glared at him.


    Zeo kneeled, burying his knees into the soil, and closed his eyes. He tried to disconnect all his senses. Ronner stood next to him and murmured in his ear, "Feel the changes in the atmosphere . . . in the wind."


    Zeo focused on the tender breeze of the night, trying to understand what it whispered to him. It was a whistle, a soft one, but uncompressible. He thought of Remnya and what she was going through. How much she had suffered, and he hadn''t been there when she needed him the most.


    How many times had he failed to protect her?


    He couldn''t protect her from Liam, Butter, and Orena. He couldn''t protect her from Persen either. He had failed to protect her from Ronner and, finally, Skado.


    Zeo remembered how much he hated himself for it.


    "Connect your mind with it, dammit!" Ronner yelled in his ear. "C''mon, do you want to be a wimp all your life? Use your fucking brain and release that power!"


    Zeo took a moment to digest his words and then nodded.


    "Ronner, you''re a piece of shit," he said through clenched teeth. "But you''re right."


    Zeo''s head hurt from the turmoil released in his mind. He buried his fingernails into his skin until blood came out, dripping between his fingers.


    The wait seemed eternal, and patience was turning into a double-edged sword.


    Why can I never do anything to protect her?


    WHY?


    WHY!


    Zeo punched the ground, and droplets of his blood spilled on the soil like a dense crimson rain.


    Quickly, the earth absorbed his blood, and silence filled the night.


    . . .


    He felt it.


    A vibration. A change in the atmosphere. Blood and earth merged into one, and his closed eyes saw something.


    He didn''t understand it, but he felt it. He saw it. It was something he didn''t comprehend, but it was his, and it was there under his body.


    "I see three," Zeo mumbled.


    "What? Three what?" Ronner asked, widening his eyes.


    "There are three powerful presences right underneath us." Zeo raised his voice, opening his eyes to glare.


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    "Tell me where!" Ronner ordered.


    "MOVE!" Zeo roared, bolting away from his spot as fast as he could. Ronner didn''t question his words and did the same.


    A large stream of fire erupted from the ground, right from where they had been standing.


    The intense heat ignited trees and grass alike, and a mist of orange particles floated in the air like deadly fireflies. Ronner rushed to his fighting stance and charged electricity between his fingers.


    A burning hole spread out on the ground, and from it, a female figure emerged among the flames, smirking.


    "We meet again, darling," she said as tongues of fire swirled around her hips and chest.


    Ronner''s surprised expression faded, giving way to a smile. "Alayna. You were the last person I''d expected to see here."


    Zeo gaped at her imposing figure. His heart raced in his chest, but he didn''t move despite the sparks flying past his eyes. He could feel the fire against his skin but couldn''t tell whether it was real or just his wind, feeling it.


    The flames vanished as Alayna took one step forward. "I see you brought a companion." She scanned Zeo from head to toe. "An Anglish? Nice finding, I might keep him, if he survives, that''s it."


    Ronner laughed and licked his lips. "He already has an owner, but you might have a taste of his powers before I roast your nice tits with my fingers again."


    Alayna''s lips quivered, and the veins in her forehead bulged. "I knew you were stupid, but should you be walking into your death so casually?" Her right arm glowed in intense orange light. "Make it more interesting, asshole!"


    A whip of fire hissed through the air as Alayna swung her arm and landed against the ground with a powerful strike.


    Unfazed, Ronner leaped aside, dodging it with ease. "Kiddo," he whispered, loud enough for Zeo to hear him. "You already know where they are, right?" Zeo bobbed his head without taking his eyes away from Alayna. "I''ll open a path for you. It''ll only last for a few seconds, so you better be fast, you won''t have a second chance. Using the same hole that bitch came from should lead you to them, am I right?"


    Another whip of fire landed inches from Ronner''s legs, leaving a trail of flames behind.


    "Yes, I saw it. There''s a whole maze of corridors underground," Zeo murmured, his heart kicking against his ribs.


    "Once you get there, you''ll be on your own. Use your powers wisely." Ronner charged a blinding electric arc that made Zeo squint. "Remember, feel the wind, and don''t die like an idiot."


    "Dying is the last thing in my mind." Zeo clenched his fists, taking one step forward, sweat rolling down his forehead. Alayna cackled and charged at Ronner with her arms engulfed by flames, leaving two trails of hell behind her.


    They clashed into a massive explosion of orange flames, cobalt sparks, and lightning, releasing a shockwave that sent Zeo to the ground.


    Alayna buried a fist into Ronner''s stomach, pushing him away, but he retaliated with two quick lightning bolts, forming an X in the air.


    Alayna leaped right and left, evading them before dashing at him again. Her right arm burned so hot it turned into a mass of plasma she aimed at Ronner''s face.


    Ronner crouched and backflipped, evading a deadly sequence of punches that opened the ground in half like the very gates of hell. Ronner giggled as he landed on his toes. Even with one arm and one eye, his speed and reflexes resembled a lethal jaguar playing with his prey.


    Ronner used his electricity to propel himself back at her, leaving a cobalt stream behind him.


    Alayna couldn''t react, and faster than his lightning, Ronner crushed her jaw with a powerful fist, followed by a knee blow to her stomach. Alayna stepped back, stunned, and staggered, trying to regain balance.


    He charged a plasma ball in his hand.


    "NOW!" Ronner roared, releasing all his energy into Alayna''s face.


    A massive ball of cobalt plasma engulfed the night, and the shockwave hit Zeo like a freight train, but he refused to fall. Leaning against a rock, Zeo shoved himself back to his feet and then sprinted with all his strength toward the pit in the ground. Silence filled his mind as he ignored the fire biting his skin and the burning debris hitting his back.


    Zeo overheard a scream of pain but ignored it.


    Nothing else mattered.


    He dived into the pit, and everything turned into darkness.


    *¡ã*¡ã*


    Wish you could hear me, but it''s better this way.


    When all this ends . . .


    We''ll walk those streets together.


    Free, finally.


    And there won''t be any more tears . . .


    I promise you that.


    My father always believed Crysalton was the city of opportunity, where dreams came true.


    He died believing that.


    I don''t believe in dreams . . .


    But I do believe in fate. I met you for a reason, and I''m so glad it happened.


    If we never get to see each other again, at least, I hope you know how much I love you, you''re my family, and I''ll never forget you . . .


    . . . My little sister.


    . . .


    *¡ã*¡ã*


    Remnya


    Soft lips kissed Remnya''s forehead. The last thing she felt before silence and darkness engulfed her mind, sending her back into an endless dream.


    Life seemed to fade away, but the tight grip around her body didn''t allow her to leave.


    Not yet.


    She still had a mission in her life.


    You need to live.


    In the shadows, Remnya woke up with tears in her eyes and a weight oppressing her chest. A familiar perfume filled her nose, a tender vanilla scent that embraced her with nostalgia. Remnya glanced around, trying to recognize the room through her blurred vision.


    A fluorescent lamp flickered and buzzed in the middle of the cracked ceiling.


    Slowly, her brain began connecting the pieces of her past in that cruel puzzle of life and death. She lay still, trying to remember the sweet voice from her dream. That voice had told her so many stories, and somehow, it had given her the strength to wake up.


    The dried blood staining her body was gone, and her clothes were dry and clean. Even her hair smelled of strawberries again. Why? When did she take a bath?


    Remnya glimpsed at the reflection of a glass of water sitting on a nightstand next to her bed. That''s when her body reacted, and thirst attacked her throat. Struggling with pain, Remnya tried to sit up, but her body felt as if it weighed tons; she could barely lift her arms.


    After four failed attempts, she finally managed to lift her upper body, supported by her forearms. Her head felt like falling apart, and a numb sensation traveled throughout her back. She reached for the glass of water and drank desperately, putting out the fire in her insides.


    When she finished, she was panting, and her heart ran several miles in her chest.


    Something cold tickled her neck as she eased herself back on the pillow. Remnya caressed a gold pendant hanging from her neck and scanned it for a moment.


    She recognized it, Brisa''s pendant.


    Silence invaded her mind, and the realization hit her like an avalanche of sorrow and anguish. All those words she had heard in her dream were real.


    Tears threatened her eyes, and her whole body began trembling, trying to hold back the pain crushing her heart. Remnya didn''t fully understand, but she knew Brisa was gone. She buried her face into the pillow, muffling her uncontrollable sobs.


    Was she even alive? Uncertainty felt worse than death.


    Fueled by anger and frustration, Remnya tried to get out of bed, but her legs didn''t respond. She remembered she couldn''t walk anymore. All she could do was cry and pity herself. Giving up seemed like a tempting option.


    "No . . . " Remnya mumbled between sobs, biting her lips. "If I give up now, all their deaths will be in vain." Her eyes burned as tears raced down her cheeks mercilessly.


    Remnya buried her fingernails into her thighs and forced her legs to move. Dragging herself toward the edge of the bed, Remnya gave a thrust forward, sending her whole body against the floor. The pain was meaningless. She lifted her upper body, supported by her elbows, and took a moment to consider her reckless decision.


    Brisa''s words still lingered in her mind. What could she do to protect her? She barely survived her fight against Skado when her body was still functional. Now, she stood no chance.


    Leaning against the bed, Remnya closed her teary eyes, hoping, wishing a bright idea would light her darkness. She shrieked in pain and frustration and covered her face with both hands, trembling like the defenseless girl she was.


    Remnya felt trapped, with nowhere to run. Powerless, at the mercy of a cruel fate, her choices weren''t hers anymore.


    And her sister, perhaps gone forever.


    A metallic thud resounded throughout the room, bringing Remnya back to her senses.


    Indistinct chattering came from the other side of the door, and then someone began slamming the steel furiously. Remnya recognized Sagan''s voice but couldn''t discern what he was saying. There was another voice, a deep one, yelling and cursing.


    Clenching the mattress of her bed, Remnya lifted herself from the ground and focused on the voices.


    "You can''t do this!" Sagan yelled but was quickly silenced by what sounded like a punch.


    Several clanks echoed in her ears as the locks of the door opened. A deafening screech screamed as it slowly opened.


    A cold bead of sweat rolled down Remnya''s forehead. Sagan stood on the other side, a terrified expression across his face, his mouth bleeding and half of his coat torn apart. Next to him, Remnya witnessed her cruel destiny.


    Skado.


    Her nightmare had just begun.


    *¡ã*¡ã*

 38: Hell

    <figure>


    </figure>


    Remnya


    Eerie silence preluded a nightmare, like the calm before the storm. Remnya leaned against her bed, gripping the mattress not to fall, her lifeless legs bending. Her eyes locked on an unrecognizable Skado, who returned an empty stare through veiny eyes. Remnya¡¯s worst nightmare in a rotten human vessel, standing under the doorframe.


    Skado smirked, his deformed lips twisting awkwardly. His skin was pale pink, peeling like paper layers. His hairless head gleamed under the fluorescent light, and her ears and nose were gone. Scars covered his shirtless torso with a pattern of burned skin, displaying different tones of red.


    He had become death itself.


    ¡°Mr. Skado, this is a mistake!¡± Sagan shouted, wiping the blood from his nose. ¡°Plus, you¡¯re still convalescent, the treatment has barely started. You can¡¯t do this!¡±


    ¡°Shut the fuck up! I¡¯m not gonna spend my days lying on a fucking bed!¡± Skado roared, his voice dry and raspy, almost unrecognizable. His eyes scanned Remnya from head to toe, freezing her bones. ¡°I will make this bitch pay for all the pain she has caused me.¡±


    Remnya¡¯s pupils dilated at the sound of his words, and a cold shiver ran down her back until the tip of her tail.


    She tried to summon her fire in her left hand.


    A white flash lit the room, and a gunshot rumbled in Remnya¡¯s ears.


    Electric pain paralyzed her left arm as a bullet penetrated her skin, destroying her bone and exploding against the wall behind her.


    Blood splattered the bed, and Remnya lost balance, slamming her body against the floor. She shrieked in pain as a red stream flowed from the hole in her forearm. Tears formed in her eyes, and the intense pain made her dizzy.


    Skado shoved his revolver in his waistband and stomped to Remnya. He jerked her arms against her back and used a metallic device to lock her hands together, immobilizing her fingers and restraining all her moves.


    Lifting Remnya¡¯s head by the hair, Skado whispered in her ear. ¡°Did you believe I¡¯d make the same mistake twice?¡± He chuckled and slammed her face against the ground, almost breaking her nose. Remnya let out a groan of pain and a few tears.


    ¡°That device will keep you from using your fire, and that bullet has an anesthetic that will paralyze your muscles for a while.¡± Skado seized her tail and dragged her toward a corner, leaving a trail of blood behind. ¡°Wanna know what¡¯s the best thing about it, though? You will still be able to feel pain!¡± He guffawed, his disgusting voice echoing throughout the room.


    ¡°Mr. Skado, this is a mistake!¡± Sagan stepped into the room and held his hands together, begging. ¡°She¡¯s useful for our mission. Hurting her won¡¯t bring us anything good!¡±


    Skado gave the doctor a contemptuous glance. ¡°I don¡¯t give a shit. We already have the Netomics. We need no more.¡±


    ¡°The treatment is not even complete, sir! What if that batch of Netomics is not enough to fully heal your body?¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t care.¡± Skado shrugged and grabbed Remnya¡¯s shirt, tearing it apart with a violent yank.


    Remnya twisted her upper body in a futile attempt to break free and tried to summon her fire, but none of her limbs responded. All her senses seemed to have disconnected from her brain. Dizziness and pain invaded her whole self, and hatred filled her heart, kicking violently against her ribs.


    Skado removed her shirt and tried to pull her pants down, but Sagan snatched his arm.


    ¡°Stop it!¡± The doctor raised his voice. This time, he wasn¡¯t pleading; it was an order.


    Skado turned to him, surprise and disbelief across his deformed face. ¡°Do you have a death wish, dog?¡±


    ¡°How can you be doing this when your brother is out there, fighting for you?¡± Sagan asked sharply, his words full of disgust.


    ¡°My brother?¡± Skado sneered. ¡°Cassius protected this fucking Nephilim and the maid, all while I was dying in a bed.¡±


    ¡°And he saved your life.¡± Sagan narrowed his eyes in an intent look. ¡°He preferred to use the Netomics to save your life, instead of enhancing his own abilities. And this is how you repay him? Taking revenge on a little girl?¡±


    The veins in Skado¡¯s hairless head bulged with increasing anger. ¡°Do you expect me to go out there and die like an idiot? Cassius chose his fate,¡± He lifted his fist and smashed it on the old man¡¯s jaw, ¡°and I chose mine.¡±


    Sagan crashed into the floor tiles and spat out a mouthful of blood.


    Remnya took advantage of the distraction to drag herself toward a knife gleaming under her bed. Perhaps Brisa had left it there?


    Coughing, Sagan lifted his eyes to glare at Skado. ¡°Coward,¡± he murmured with clenched teeth.


    Skado froze for a moment, processing those words. He turned to face the doctor and took one step forward. ¡°What did you say?¡±


    Skado lifted Sagan by the collar of his torn suit. ¡°Big words for a dog who runs after my brother¡¯s tail.¡± He charged an electric arc between his fingers and aimed it at Sagan¡¯s face, the electricity reflecting in his glasses.


    ¡°If you kill me, who is going to heal you, uh? You don¡¯t know how to use the Netomics.¡± Sagan trembled like a scared puppy, but a smile forced its way across his face.


    Skado stared deep into his eyes for a moment and then nodded. He released Sagan, dropping him onto the ground.


    As the doctor tried to stand, Skado struck him in the face with a kick that sent him like a flesh doll against the wall.


    ¡°You¡¯ll live,¡± Skado sniggered, strolling toward him. He reached for a rusty steel beam sticking out from the ceiling and snapped it in half. ¡°But a painful life.¡± He caressed his new weapon and smirked at Sagan.


    ¡°What are you¡ª¡±


    Skado smashed Sagan¡¯s legs with the thick metal, crushing his knees with several vicious strikes. The old man pleaded and screamed in pain as his bones cracked with every hit.


    Ignoring the horrific sight, Remnya stretched her neck, grabbing the knife from the floor with her teeth.


    When Skado finished, Sagan¡¯s legs were bleeding and twisting awkwardly. Tears rolled down the doctor¡¯s eyes as he trembled and drooled on the floor.


    ¡°I¡¯ll leave your arms intact for now. You should be grateful!¡± Skado chuckled and spat in Sagan¡¯s face. He turned to Remnya and strolled in her direction. ¡°Now, it¡¯s your turn, Nephilim.¡±


    Hiding the knife between her lips, Remnya shot a glare from the corner of her eyes at him. Skado grabbed her hair to lift her from the ground.


    Remnya reacted by whirling her body against him, and with a furious jerk of her neck, she buried the knife into Skado¡¯s chest.


    He let out a roar of pain and punched Remnya across the face.


    Skado rushed to pull the knife out of his chest. A bloodstream flowed from the hole between his ribs. Unfortunately, Remnya¡¯s attempt hadn¡¯t been enough to reach his heart.


    You might be reading a pirated copy. Look for the official release to support the author.


    The veins in Skado¡¯s head bulged as if about to explode, his eyes turning red with fury. Yet he smiled, cauterizing the hole in his chest with his electricity.


    ¡°No matter what you do, little bitch. You won¡¯t get away from me again.¡± Skado snatched Remnya¡¯s neck, lifting her body, and smashed her head against the wall, breaking her nose.


    Remnya clenched her teeth, suppressing her screams as Skado shoved her skull against the concrete over and over again. Blood spurted from her nose and mouth. Skado released all his anger and frustration on her until the concrete cracked with the shape of Remnya¡¯s head.


    When satisfied, he released her neck, allowing Remnya¡¯s body to fall on the floor, but before she could process the pain, a sudden kick almost shattered her ribs. Remnya screamed in agony as the air left her lungs.


    ¡°Hell! You¡¯re way more resilient than I thought!¡± he sneered, burying his boot in Remnya¡¯s back, crushing her against the cold tiles.


    Remnya glared at him as multiple crimson streams trailed down her forehead and between her eyes, dripping from her nose to stain her chest. Her body was too weak to break the shackles restraining her arms and suppressing her fire.


    If only she had a bit more strength.


    Skado was panting and trembling, his eyes dilated, and his skin covered in Remnya¡¯s blood. He crouched over her and tried to whisper in her ear.


    Using her last bits of energy, Remnya head-butted him twice, breaking his nose on the second try.


    He winced and flinched away. His nose and exposed flesh began bleeding. ¡°Little whore! No matter what you do, I¡¯ll finish what my fucking father started!¡± he yelled in her ear and crushed her body against the floor. Grabbing the same knife Remnya used on him, he cut through her pants, slicing her thighs, and then tore the thread apart.


    As he reached out for her underwear, Remnya whirled against him. Using the same metal restraining her wrists, she slammed Skado¡¯s face with a powerful strike. He fell to the ground, stunned, with Remnya on top of him.


    ¡°You¡¯ll have to kill me first, disgusting bastard!¡± Remnya yelled and bit Skado¡¯s neck with all her remaining strength, taking a chunk of his rotten flesh.


    He wailed in pain and landed a clumsy fist against her head, pushing her away.


    Remnya tried to retaliate, but her body didn¡¯t respond anymore. It was slowly shutting down, her energy draining out of her in a pond of crimson blood.


    ¡°I¡¯ll fuck you and then kill you,¡± Skado spat, wrapping his arms around her. He tore apart her underwear with a vicious yank.


    Remnya¡¯s mind trailed off for a moment, the idea of giving up invading her mind. Why was she still fighting? She had already given her all and would die soon; Remnya knew it. What difference would it make for her body to get tainted when she died, anyway?


    Two tears trailed down her cheeks, turning red as they merged with her blood. She closed her eyes and let out a sob of resignation.


    Skado stood up, looming over her naked body. He was breathing heavily, and a smirk slithered across his deformed jaw. He unfastened his belt.


    Remnya glanced over her shoulder at him. The blood and tears in her eyes blurred the monstrous figure behind her. ¡°You can do anything to me . . . ¡° Remnya mumbled, ¡°but please, don¡¯t touch my friends.¡±


    Skado guffawed as he pulled his pants down. ¡°Dumb bitch, once I am done with you, your Anglish boyfriend will be next.¡±


    Remnya¡¯s whole body trembled as she dragged herself forward, tears racing down her cheeks. ¡°You won¡¯t touch Zeo . . . ¡°


    ¡°Oh, hell I will! When I find him, I¡¯ll give him the most painful death.¡± Skado snatched her ankle and yanked her toward him.


    Remnya began to doze off as a gelid sensation traveled throughout her body like ice.


    But her soul still burned. Even if it was over, she couldn¡¯t leave that world without fighting. Zeo would be disappointed.


    ¡°I love you, Zeo . . . ¡° Remnya murmured as her heart raced, pumping boiling blood through her chest. ¡°And I love you, Brisa . . . ¡°


    Skado sprawled over her and bent over, trying to reach for her lower body with his dirty hands.


    The fluorescent lamp flickering on the ceiling blew up.


    A crimson flash blinded Skado, and the room turned hot like an oven.


    Remnya glared at his attacker, and a stream of fire shot from her eyes, exploding against Skado¡¯s face into a massive fireball.


    The explosion pushed the monster away, his head engulfed by flames, and his back whipped the floor.


    ¡°That was my last bit of energy . . . ¡° Remnya smiled while peace filled her soul. ¡°Now, do whatever you want with me . . . ¡° Finally, she closed her eyes, and everything turned into darkness. An endless dream to escape her nightmare forever.


    Skado howled in pain, grabbing bedsheets and cloth to put out the blaze roasting his skin. ¡°I¡¯ll destroy you, Nephilim! I will destroy you!¡± He rolled on the ground until the last flames died on his face, leaving deep smoking scars on his melted skin. He stood up and staggered toward Remnya, stumbling and falling on his side, half-blind. His left eye had imploded due to the intense heat.


    He crouched and crawled over Remnya, decided to finish what he had started, even if that was the last despicable deed in his life. He pulled Remnya¡¯s unconscious body toward him.


    A smirk drew across his burned face. ¡°I¡¯m gonna destroy you, slut, I¡¯m gonna do it . . . ¡°


    His bloody fingers stretched, trying to touch her body.


    . . .


    But something stopped him.


    A monstrous roar blared in Skado¡¯s ears.


    ¡°DON¡¯T TOUCH HER!¡±


    As he tried to react, arms as strong as steel wrapped around his neck, yanking him away from Remnya.


    Skado gasped for air and jolted his head, trying to recognize his attacker.


    Zeo was behind him, growling with fury, crushing his neck with both arms. He didn¡¯t look like a kid anymore. He was a furious beast.


    <figure>


    </figure>


    Zeo


    ¡°Don¡¯t you ever touch her again, fucking bastard!¡± Zeo¡¯s voice had turned into a demonic bellow, his eyes were red with hatred and bloodlust, and his vectors whistled through the air uncontrollably, slicing everything in their way.


    Running out of oxygen, Skado head-butted Zeo, cracking his nose. Blood spurted out of his nostrils, but Zeo didn¡¯t let go of him. His grip became stronger; he would murder that wicked monster no matter what.


    Skado managed to snatch Zeo¡¯s arm, and using his electricity, he released a powerful shock into his body.


    Zeo got kicked away from him, and his body slammed against the wall. Numb pain filled his whole self, and cramps twisted every one of his muscles. But Zeo didn¡¯t give a shit. He stood up, his skin smoking. The pain was meaningless; he was ready to fight until death for her.


    Before Skado could stand up, Zeo charged at him like an enraged bull and crushed his jaw with a powerful punch, releasing a cascade of blood. As Skado hit the wall with his nose, Zeo darted at him again and kicked his head.


    Skado went to the floor, and Zeo sprawled over him to release a flurry of vicious strikes.


    One, two, four, six punches landed on Skado¡¯s face, drawing a torrent of blood, skin, and teeth. Zeo¡¯s eyes began glowing in an emerald tone, and his irises turned into two lines resembling the stare of a wild tiger trying to tear his prey apart.


    Skado stopped the tenth punch and retaliated with a solid hit to Zeo¡¯s nose, drawing a stream of blood.


    Zeo flinched away, and Skado sat up, shoving him away. He charged an electric arc in his right hand.


    ¡°Die, fucking Anglish!¡±


    Skado lifted his arm, ready to release a massive lightning bolt against Zeo¡¯s chest.


    Zeo¡¯s eyes flickered in the darkness like green flames.


    He smiled.


    A vector cut through the air, whistling like a whip of death.


    In a quick swift, it sliced Skado¡¯s right arm.


    The electricity vanished into sparks as his forearm landed on the floor, splashing the cracked tiles with blood and broken bones. Wide-eyed, Skado witnessed his severed limb contorting on the ground, his fingers clenching and stopping.


    Zeo didn¡¯t give him time to contemplate his life choices. His vectors grabbed his neck and shoved him against the wall in a violent thrust, burying his body into concrete and steel, which bent under the monstrous strength.


    Skado gasped and groaned in pain while Zeo glared at him with a smirk, his eyes two spectral orbs from hell.


    Unable to break free, Skado¡¯s deformed face gaped with terror.


    ¡°Don¡¯t do it,¡± Skado murmured, gripping the vectors with his remaining hand. ¡°You¡¯re not a murderer . . . ¡°


    Zeo was deaf and blind. He strolled toward Skado until his face was right in front of the disgusting monster who had caused Remnya so much pain.


    ¡°You¡¯re not . . . a murderer . . . ¡°


    ¡°Am I not a murderer?¡± Zeo asked coldly.


    ¡°I had no choice . . . ¡° Skado whispered, his voice thin like a thread, barely escaping his crushed neck. He gazed into Zeo¡¯s eyes with only one eye half-closed and filled with blood. ¡°I was wrong. I allowed hatred to consume my soul . . . ¡°


    ¡°Forgive me.¡±


    Zeo snickered. ¡°Why are you pleading for mercy now?¡±


    ¡°Forgive me, kid . . . this is not you . . . ¡° Skado¡¯s voice vanished as his skin turned purple.


    . . .


    Zeo released his neck.


    Skado¡¯s body fell to the floor as he cradled his neck and coughed blood.


    Silence.


    Skado smirked. ¡°You¡¯re a dead man.¡± A magnetic field engulfed his body, shooting lightning and sparks across the room.


    Zeo realized his intentions. He was trying to use his energy to blow up, killing himself and everyone in the room. The same cowardice he had tried in the mansion.


    No.


    The air whistled and vibrated as if a thousand furious wasps were released into a hurricane.


    Skado¡¯s eyes glimmered in the shadows while two spectral vectors glowed and approached his neck.


    He tried to attack Zeo, but his time had come to an end.


    A short whistle. A clean-cut.


    The electricity turned into silver sparks and smoke, and Skado¡¯s head slowly detached from his body.


    It hit the floor, rolled down, leaving a red trail behind, and stopped against the tip of Zeo¡¯s shoe.


    Zeo stared into Skado¡¯s eye, blinking like crazy, and his tongue sticking out of his broken jaw. He seemed to be looking back at him. His lips twisted as if trying to say something, but words never came out, only a spurt of blood.


    A heavy silence fell in the room.


    The vectors disappeared, and Zeo¡¯s eyes returned to normal. He felt nothing, not even hatred anymore.


    Stumbling, Zeo rushed to Remnya¡¯s side. He removed his blood-stained shirt and snatched a ragged bedsheet to cover her naked body. He wrapped his arms around her and picked her up.


    A dying Sagan watched from a corner. Zeo ignored him as he ran past him, heading to the door.


    He halted under the doorframe to glance over his shoulder at his deed.


    Skado¡¯s body still convulsed on the ground, and his head spurted blood from his mouth, nose, and ears.


    Zeo blinked and whirled to face the light, and then he ran with all his strength with the girl he loved in his arms.


    Nothing else mattered.


    *¡ã*¡ã*

 39: Ice

    Remnya


    Remnya squinted at a blurred figure standing next to her. Two long ears and eyes as green as the beautiful gardens of the mansion. An unknown yet familiar presence, calming the turmoil in her body and soul.


    Warm hands caressed her face, gently cleaning the blood from her skin. She recognized his touch, and her tired eyes widened at the sight of him.


    "Zeo," Remnya whispered, dizziness causing the gloomy room to spin around her.


    Zeo leaned his hand on her cheek and returned a tender smile. "Hi, Rem," he said, "I''m glad you''re back."


    That''s all she wanted to hear. Not taking her pupils away from him, Remnya allowed her thoughts to fit the pieces of her mind together. Why was Zeo with her?


    Silence.


    Slowly, isolated memories from the past returned to haunt her like the waves in a dense ocean. Her chest felt heavy, as if a massive rock had dropped on her weakened body, and the air became thinner with every breath. Cold sweat prickled on her skin as her heart kicked against her ribs.


    A sudden burst of anguish exploded inside her. She remembered.


    "Skado!" Remnya screamed, yanking the blanket over her, "Please, no!"


    Remnya tried to jump off the bed, but Zeo wrapped his arms around her, holding her tightly against his chest.


    "Nothing happened, you''re safe now," Zeo whispered in her ear. Tears flowed mercilessly as a tempest unfolded in Remnya''s brain, yet she heard his soothing voice in the void of her mind. "Skado is dead. Gone forever."


    Remnya gasped for air as she fought the ghosts from her past. She gripped Zeo''s body with all her strength. No one else in the world could make her feel safe but him.


    The battle lasted for what seemed an eternity.


    Zeo never left her side. He held her against his chest, his heartbeats calming her mind. Remnya squeezed his back, feeling his warm skin covered by scars, blood, and dust. She took a deep breath, smelling his aroma. So strange yet so familiar.


    Her last memory flashed before her eyes. She remembered: When Skado loomed over her, Zeo broke into that room, and then everything turned into darkness.


    "You saved me," Remnya murmured.


    "I did what I had to do," he replied, his voice soft but sharp.


    "How?" Remnya asked, releasing his body to look into his eyes. She noticed the cuts across his face and shirtless torso. Dried blood stained his nose and mouth. "Why do you keep risking your life like this, Zeo?"


    "You already know why." He shrugged as a timid smile pulled at his lips.


    "You''re crazy and stupid!" Remnya scowled, clenching her fists. "But you''re amazing! I''m sorry I was too blind to see how strong you really are."


    "Nonsense. If you hadn''t believed in me from the beginning," Zeo cradled her hand, "I wouldn''t be here now."


    Remnya lowered her face, embarrassed and out of words. Then, from the corner of her eyes, she noticed the horrible burnt scar crossing his chest. Remnya gasped, and without thinking, she touched his skin.


    "Who did this to you?" she asked as her trembling fingers trailed the dead skin across his torso.


    "Don''t worry about it now." Zeo smiled.


    "Uh . . . What happened to Skado?"


    "Dead," he replied coldly.


    Remnya ran out of breath for a moment. "Who killed him? Ronner?"


    Zeo tilted his head, his gaze as gelid as ice. "I killed him. I cut his head off."


    Remnya''s arms dropped on the bed, lifeless. Her pupils dilated as she scrutinized the boy in front of her. Was he Zeo? She tried to read his face.


    A cold shiver ran down her back.


    He wasn''t lying.


    "I''m sorry," she mumbled, lowering her head as tears welled up in her eyes.


    "For what?"


    "For causing all this . . . " Tears landed on the blanket, forming moist dots on the white thread. "It''s all my fault, I dragged you into this."


    "No." Zeo frowned and leaned closer. "You did not. You''re a victim here. Those monsters forced you into this hell."


    Remnya sniffled, trying to hold back her tears. "If I weren''t a Nephilim, none of this would have happened . . . You wouldn''t have gone through all this pain because of me . . . "


    "You did nothing wrong." Zeo cradled her hands between his. "You''re wonderful, the most amazing girl I''ve ever met." He leaned his forehead against hers and stared deep into her eyes, almost caressing her soul. "Nephilim or not, I don''t care. You are you, and I love you for it. Stop blaming yourself for being who you are, Rem."


    His words pushed against the softest spot of her heart, and tears flowed like a torrent of sorrow and joy. Remnya darted at him, burying her face in his chest, and squeezed his body.


    Remnya cried, and Zeo held her. The time lost its meaning; it was only them in the world.


    "I . . . " she started, but tears muffled her words. "I . . . " Remnya swallowed the pain and ran her fingers through his messy hair, soft and rough, stained by blood.


    A sudden spasm shocked her body, and Remnya let out a groan of pain.


    "Don''t push yourself. Your body is badly hurt." Zeo caressed her back tenderly, trying to ease her pain, and then helped her to lie on the pillow. "I''ve been treating your wounds, but I still have a lot to do. However, I tried to use my Vectors to fix your back."


    "Vectors?" Remnya widened her eyes as she wiped her tears.


    Zeo chuckled. "It''s a long story."


    Remnya rolled her eyes and nodded. Trying to understand the severity of her wounds, she lifted her blanket to stare at her body. Her chest was covered by bandages, and all she was wearing was a white shirt that barely covered her thighs.


    Heat burned her ears and face; she wanted to scream and run. "Don''t look at me!" she yelled, pushing Zeo away and yanking the blanket over her head.


    "I never looked, I promise," Zeo rushed to say.


    Remnya''s cheeks turned as crimson as her eyes. "Stupid idiot! Why didn''t you tell me I was naked!"


    "You''re wearing my clothes . . . "


    "Dumbass!"


    Zeo lowered his head. "I''m sorry, Rem, but I couldn''t dress you while you were unconscious. That''d mean I had to look at your body."


    Remnya suppressed the urge to punch his savior and peeked at Zeo from behind the blanket. "Do you promise you didn''t look at me at all?" she asked, stuttering.


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    "I promise." Zeo leaned his hand on his heart. "As soon as I found you, I covered you with my shirt and carried you away from that place."


    Remnya could read Zeo like a book, and she knew he was honest. She lowered the blanket, revealing her pouting flushed face. "Okay . . . "


    "Can you move your legs?" he asked.


    She sighed as a gloomy expression spread across her face. "I can''t . . . my body is useless now."


    "Try," Zeo said.


    "Zeo, I told you¡ª"


    "Do it, Rem." He raised his voice, narrowing his eyes.


    Remnya stared at him for a moment until resignation forced her to comply with his request. She hissed and nodded.


    It''ll never work. My body is dead from the waist down.


    Ignoring the pain, she tried to move her right leg.


    She gasped. "What?"


    Her right foot moved, and then her left one, her knees, and even her hips. Everything worked again. However, a pain resembling a knife stabbing her bones turned the slightest moves into torture.


    Seeing her grimace in pain, Zeo rushed to her side and caressed her hand gently. "Take it easy, please."


    "What did you do, Zeo?" Remnya murmured as a part of her still refused to believe that guy was her old friend.


    "Don''t worry about that. Now we need to focus on the important things." He caressed her face, his touch causing the pain to disappear.


    Remnya curled her lips and nodded. "Thank you."


    Zeo beamed at her, and her cheeks turned red. She averted her eyes.


    "I''d love to spend more time with you, but we don''t have much time left," Zeo admitted, letting out a deep sigh. "You need to get out of here and find someone. He''s the only one who can protect you now."


    "What are you talking about?" Remnya gaped at him. "You and Brisa need to come with me."


    "Things are more complicated than that." A downcast expression spread across Zeo''s face. He sat on the bed next to her and began explaining all the events that led to that moment.


    The light left Remnya''s eyes as she learned the details of their tragic journey. Tears threatened her eyes again, but she refused to let them out. There was no time to cry anymore.


    "So, Danny guided you here," Remnya murmured, her gaze fixed on the blanket.


    "He managed to lead Alayna''s soldiers through a different route. If I ran into them, I wouldn''t have made it in time."


    "Are you telling me he wanted you to . . . " Remnya swallowed through a closed throat, " . . . kill Skado."


    "I don''t know, but he wanted me to stop him."


    Remnya clenched her fists. "What will happen to Brisa? I can''t just abandon her."


    "Rem." Zeo raised his voice, staring deep into her glistening eyes. "You need to understand your limitations. You did everything you could and more. You saved her life. Now, it''s time for you to allow us to take care of this."


    Two tears trailed down Remnya''s cheeks. "I can''t . . . "


    Zeo leaned his hands on her shoulders and leaned closer, frowning. "You can''t save the world alone, Remnya. That''s why I am here. Brisa was brave and went out there to protect you, and I am here to fulfill her wish." He caressed her cheek, wiping her tears. "Ronner, Viper, and even Danny are going to bring her back alive. Hell! I hate Ronner, but he''s fucking strong and somehow loves Brisa more than his own life. Give that bastard some credit."


    His words sent shivers down her spine. Anguish and sorrow mixed with a dim light of hope in her restless heart. She remembered her dream, Brisa''s words echoing in her mind.


    ''When all this ends, we''ll walk those streets together. Free, finally . . . and there won''t be any more tears. I promise you that.''


    Remnya squeezed her eyes shut and buried her fingernails into her palms. Her whole body trembled as she muffled her sobs. Finally, she nodded.


    "Just promise me you won''t die," Remnya mumbled, fixing her glistening eyes on Zeo, her crimson fire burning in her heart.


    Zeo leaned his forehead against hers, and their noses touched. He narrowed his eyes, the fire in his soul as powerful as hers. "I promise you I won''t die."


    *¡ã*¡ã*


    Ronner


    A large cloud of black smoke and embers spread across the battlefield, along with the corpses of Alayna''s soldiers. The dry trees crackled, devoured by fires that flickered in Ronner''s eye. He stood still, his face half-covered by blood, and his right arm, glowing in an intense cobalt light. Open wounds drew a red river across his shirtless torso, yet he smiled.


    In front of him, Alayna staggered, trying to stand tall and imposing, but her left leg limped and bent under her weight. Blood filled her mouth, and multiple crimson lines covered her body. Her coat had been destroyed, and only her broken armor covered her chest. Her eyes glimmered under the moon as she glared at Ronner, the veins in her forehead bulging with hatred.


    A magnetic field surrounded Ronner''s body, causing his hair to bristle. "It seems like even with one arm and one eye, I''m still better than you and your army."


    Alayna clenched her teeth, sparks shooting from her fingers, and smoke coming out of her mouth. "A nasty bastard like you will never come out victorious. I won''t allow it!" she bellowed, limping forward.


    "You''re alone now, most of your soldiers died trying to fight by your side." He snickered. "Honestly, I thought better warriors walked among The Hunters."


    "Shut up!" Alayna roared and shot a stream of scarlet fire from her right hand.


    Ronner summoned a cobalt whip of plasma, destroying her attack with a quick swing of his arm. The fire turned into a rain of sparks and glowing particles that roasted the grass.


    "I gotta say I''ve seen a fourteen-year-old girl with more impressive fire control than you." Ronner sniggered.


    The ground beneath Alayna''s feet exploded as she charged at him like a burning torch, leaving a trail of flames behind her. She threw one punch followed by an uppercut, but Ronner dodged them easily.


    He ducked, evading a kick to his face, and counterattacked with a strike to her nose, drawing a stream of blood.


    Alayna recoiled, letting out a muffled groan of pain. Before she could react, Ronner whipped her body with a lightning strike, causing an explosion across her chest.


    The electricity burned her skin, opening a deep bloody line from neck to waist. Alayna staggered backward, refusing to fall. She trembled and clenched her teeth not to let out any sign of pain.


    Ronner took a confident step forward and smiled, his teeth reflecting the moonlight. "Is that it, Captain?"


    As she cursed between her teeth, two men emerged from the shadows charging energy in their hands. They dashed toward Ronner, closing the distance in half a second.


    Ronner stopped a fist aimed at his face and retaliated with an elbow to the stomach of the first man. The second one swung a massive sword at his neck, but Ronner used his companion as a shield.


    The blade cut through the first man, opening him in half. Using his electricity and the sword as a conductor, Ronner released an electric shock into their bodies, roasting them instantly.


    Both men fell to the ground, contorting and screaming with their skin smoking.


    "Nice try, I already knew you were there." He glanced around, a smug smile dancing above his lips. "Anyone left? C''mon! Come out of your hiding spot and die with your dear captain!"


    Guffawing, Ronner turned to Alayna and scrutinized her wounds, marveling at his deed. Alayna tried to attack, but an electric arc emerging from the ground paralyzed her legs.


    A powerful punch to the face sent the captain with her back smashing into the floor.


    Ronner shook his head as he loomed over her, mocking her with arrogant eyes. "Pitiful," he said, brutally kicking Alayna''s sides.


    She contorted in pain but refused to let out a single sound. He sprawled over her and snatched her neck. "Does this sight remind you of something?" He giggled.


    "Fuck you," Alayna spat through clenched teeth and buried her fingernails into his arm.


    "Luckily for you, this time I''m not interested in your body. I found someone better, much better." He buried his foot into Alayna''s wounds. She let out a scream of pain as his boot broke through her open skin, drawing a torrent of blood.


    "However, I missed your moans of pain, Alayna." Ronner licked his lips, pushing his foot deeper into her muscles.


    Alayna charged a fireball in her left hand and hurled it at Ronner''s face, but he leaped aside, allowing the fire to whistle by his side. It exploded against a nearby tree, turning the trunk into a scarlet torch.


    "If you tell me where they are . . . " Ronner shoved his finger into her mouth, "I might allow you to live, what do you say?"


    She tried to bite his finger off, but Ronner electrified her mouth, shocking her. "I''m gonna start by chopping your limbs, that might change your mind, fucking bitch."


    Alayna''s mouth and nose were smoking. However, her body was immune to burns, only the shock of his electricity had caused damage, and blood dripped from her tongue and lips.


    "No matter what you do . . . I''ll never give up before a coward like you, not ever again!" Alayna''s voice was a furious roar, echoing throughout the night.


    Ronner shrugged. "As you wish."


    Alayna tried to kick Ronner''s groin, but a punch to the face stopped her. Blood flowed from her broken lips, staining the dry soil.


    A twisted expression crawled through Ronner''s face, and a sinister smirk made the night shiver. He shoved his hand against Alayna''s breast, close to her heart, and buried his fingernails into it. His hand began glowing in an intense cobalt blaze, shooting sparks over her chest.


    "Do it, coward!" Alayna spat, glaring at Ronner as she missed two punches aimed at his jaw. Her whole body twisted violently, trying to break free from his powerful grip, but her clumsy attempts didn''t faze Ronner anymore; wounds had taken their toll on the prideful captain.


    "I''m not gonna kill you . . . yet," Ronner said coldly as electric arcs formed around his arm, reflecting in his blue pupils. "But I''m gonna rip off your tits."


    A blinding flash lit the night.


    The hot air turned into a gelid breeze, killing the fire particles in the air and turning them into white mist.


    Several cracks echoed throughout the night.


    Ronner tried to attack Alayna, but his arm didn''t respond.


    Half of his body had been covered by a thick layer of ice, freezing his bones.


    Glancing around the dead field, Ronner spotted a familiar figure standing behind him. His attacker''s hands were buried in the ground, and a path of glimmering ice had formed between him and his body. His eyes glowed white, fixated on his prey: himself.


    Ronner grinned, enraged, and marveled at the sight. "I was wondering how long it''d take you to show up." A smirk spread across his face. "Viper."


    "I came to finish what I started, Ronner," Viper said, his voice as gelid as his ice.


    "I always wondered what your ability was." Ronner jerked his arm until the ice cracked. "So, Water manipulation . . . Not bad." He giggled. "But you will need much more than this to stop me." Releasing a burst of energy, Ronner shattered the ice around his body, turning it into thousands of sharpened crystals, sparkling under the moonlight like a rainbow of diamond dust.


    "This is just the beginning of the end." Viper rushed to his fighting stance, half of his body engulfed by white.


    "One of us will die tonight."


    *¡ã*¡ã*

 40: Emeralds And Shadows

    Remnya


    A yellowish lamp flickered on the cracked ceiling, devoured by moisture and time. Zeo looked away while Remnya changed into the clothes he had found for her: old sweatpants, his shirt, and worn-out shoes that loosely fit her feet. Using a piece of broken mirror, Remnya looked at her face, noticing the cuts around her mouth along with her swollen lips, forehead, and eyes. The metallic taste of blood reminded her that she was lucky to be alive.


    Zeo stood still, facing the locked door. A ragged T-shirt covered his scarred torso, and blood-stained jeans completed his gloomy figure. Remnya stared at him for long silent seconds, admiring and fearing what her best friend had become. A true warrior.


    But at what cost?


    "I am ready," Remnya said, limping forward while pain traveled from her legs throughout her entire body.


    Zeo rushed to her side and offered his shoulder to lean on. Reluctantly, Remnya wrapped her right arm around him, and he held her by the waist, easing the effort from her weak legs.


    "I can carry you if you want. I don''t mind," Zeo admitted, glancing at her with a smile.


    "Hell no!" Remnya snapped, pushing him away. "I can walk!"


    He chuckled. "As you wish, but we need to hurry. Danny told me he would do his best to distract Alayna''s soldiers, but there''s always the risk we run into them, so we better be ready."


    Remnya sighed and shook her head in frustration. "Wish I could be more useful, instead of a burden for you."


    "Shut up, Rem," Zeo joked, squeezing her side gently.


    Ignoring the pain, Remnya smiled and allowed Zeo to help her walk toward her fate. He unlocked the door and craned his neck to look into the dark corridor. He glanced left and right, and silence answered from every corner, assuring them it was safe to move.


    Together, they took the first step.


    A heavy atmosphere lingered in the shadows, accompanied by the scent of damp and decay from crumbling walls. However, a strange sense of freedom filled Remnya''s body; for the first time in her life, she was the owner of her fate.


    The underground looked like a maze of life and death, but Zeo knew where to go and guided her confidently. At the end of the last corridor, a spiral staircase emerged in front of them. They halted to inspect it, and Remnya witnessed an endless ascent through the bowels of the earth. Rust covered the metallic handrails, and the cracked wooden steps looked on the verge of falling apart. How was she going to climb that death trap?


    "Get on my back," Zeo said casually, releasing her waist.


    Remnya widened her eyes and stuttered, trying to understand his words, "Uh . . . What?"


    "You''re too weak to climb, so I''ll carry you upstairs. This the safest way out of here." Zeo furrowed his eyebrows, his gaze deep and sharp like a knife.


    "No way¡ª"


    "Rem, there''s no time to be embarrassed now!" He took one step forward, making Remnya flinch. "You can yell at me all you want once you''re safe."


    "Zeo, I can do it myself!" Remnya retorted, scowling at him. "I''m not a weakling!"


    "I know that very well. If you weren''t hurt, you''d be way stronger than me, yeah." He leaned closer and frowned. "But you''re not right now."


    "Ugh!" Remnya groaned and whirled, trying to climb the stairs, but Zeo snatched her arm, stopping her. "Let me go!"


    Zeo let out a sigh of frustration, and quick as lightning, he pulled Remnya toward him, causing her to lose balance. She gasped and landed on his arms. Zeo picked her up and dashed down the stairs, carrying her like a scared little girl.


    Remnya yelled and punched him in the face several times, but Zeo was unfazed, and his steps only became heavier and steadier.


    "You jerk! Put me down now!" Remnya roared, punching his nose with all her strength.


    "Shut up! For once in your life, shut the fuck up and allow me to protect you!" Zeo shouted, his voice sending shivers down her spine.


    Remnya froze for a moment with her pupils fixed on his face. That wasn''t Zeo, he was someone else. His eyes didn''t display the warm innocence she had always known; they were full of fury and frustration.


    Yet, under the tenuous reflection of distant lamps, she saw a spark of hope in him.


    His cold expression softened as he halted midway, panting. He stared into her eyes, blood trailing down his nose, clearly caused by his punch.


    "I''m sorry," Zeo said.


    Remnya averted her eyes and twisted her lips, ashamed. "Don''t apologize . . . " She reached out for his face, wiping the blood with the back of her hand. "I''m sorry for being such a brat."


    "Even weakened, your hands are heavy as usual." Zeo snickered. "I wouldn''t like to take a punch from you at full strength."


    "Same." She giggled, ruffling his hair. "But I believe you should punch me sometime."


    "What?" Zeo''s eyes almost popped out of their sockets.


    "Nothing." Remnya hid a mischievous giggle. "Just do what you gotta do." She leaned her head against his chest and wiped the blood from his nose with her sleeve.


    Zeo nodded and resumed his restless climb through that spiral of ancient metal and wood. The rotten steps screeched under his feet and fell apart into the abyss beneath them, yet he didn''t hesitate.


    This content has been misappropriated from Royal Road; report any instances of this story if found elsewhere.


    Despite the long ascent, the time seemed to fly for Remnya; she focused on her savior and strangely felt safe. For once in her life, Remnya allowed herself to be a pathetic damsel in distress.


    Jumping over the missing steps, they reached the last floor. Zeo put her back on the ground and leaned against a wall to rest. He was panting heavily, and sweat rolled down his forehead. Remnya wiped his face with the sleeves of her shirt and then ruffled his hair, assuring him she was there for him.


    "A few more rooms, and we''ll be out of here," Zeo murmured, taking a deep breath.


    "The person I need to find . . . " Remnya trailed off. "Debrin Kavram was his name, right?"


    Zeo nodded.


    "You need to come with me." Remnya leaned closer, fixing her crimson eyes on him.


    "I can''t." He tightened his lips.


    "I don''t want you to leave me." Remnya held his face between her hands, and her pupils trembled with hope and fear. "I don''t know if I''ll ever be able to see Brisa again . . . I can''t lose you too."


    Zeo lifted his gaze at her, his green orbs glistening under the weak light of a distant room. "I don''t think it''ll be possible for both of us to escape¡ª"


    The screech of wood against leather echoed throughout the corridors when heavy footsteps slammed against the floor.


    Zeo grabbed Remnya''s hand and pulled her with him into a nearby room, cramped with construction tools and old furniture. He tried to close the door, but the scream of old hinges stopped him. He preferred to leave it half-open, hoping the intruder didn''t notice them in the darkness. They squeezed their bodies together into a corner and remained still.


    The footsteps drew closer with every second, along with the jingling of keys and perhaps weapons.


    Remnya clung to Zeo''s body, her breath stopping not to give away their location. Only her heartbeats resounded in that gelid room.


    Minutes turned into hours as the footsteps wandered back and forth, halting and resuming their unnerving noise.


    A silhouette loomed in the shadows. Remnya recognized a man clad in a combat outfit, a plasma shotgun hanging from his back, and a knife in his right hand. Her throat knotted while she dug her fingers into Zeo''s back.


    The man stood still for a moment, and Remnya''s heart stopped.


    He reached for his shotgun.


    In the darkness of their room, Remnya glimpsed two emerald orbs glowing.


    Zeo left her side, taking a loud step forward.


    In disbelief, Remnya tried to stop him, but he was already gone.


    BOOM!


    The floor beneath the unknown man shattered, and two spectral arms emerged like ghosts from hell. The man fumbled with his weapon, but the arms snatched his neck, slamming his body against the wall.


    Letting out a groan of pain, the stranger fell to the ground, and Zeo darted at him. He kicked his shotgun away and smashed his face with a powerful punch, causing him to drop his knife.


    Remnya''s jaw dropped, and her eyes widened like full moons.


    "Who are you and what are you doing here?" Zeo asked, his voice a terrifying roar.


    "Are you the Anglish?" the man replied and was met by another punch to the face that drew a mouthful of blood.


    "Answer my question!" Zeo snatched the knife lying on the ground and pushed it against his throat.


    "Zeo!" Remnya called through a closed throat and rushed up to him. "What are you doing?"


    "What do you think I am doing?" Zeo looked at her as if she were asking the most stupid question in the world.


    "The Nephilim," the man said, widening his eyes.


    With a violent thrust, Zeo buried the knife into the man''s arm. He let out a wail of pain as blood erupted from his muscle.


    "Fucking piece of shit, how do you know about her?" Zeo bellowed and grabbed him by the collar, shaking him violently.


    Remnya tried to say something, but words didn''t dare to come out. Once again, Zeo had changed, and the only light coming from his eyes was a ghastly emerald glow. Even his pupils had turned into two lines resembling a furious feline.


    "Dammit! Okay, okay, I''ll tell you!" the man shouted, struggling to breathe as those spectral hands crushed his neck. "I belong to Alayna''s army. I was looking for Viper''s brother to eliminate him as asked by my captain."


    "So, you''re one of her soldiers." Zeo yanked the knife out of his arm and leaned closer with a glare. "How do you know about us?"


    The soldier coughed and clutched the hands wrapped around his neck. "The old man told me . . . He promised me that if I saved his life, he''d tell me about the Nephilim."


    "The old man?" Zeo asked, thrown aback.


    "Sagan," Remnya murmured, remembering the dying doctor in that room.


    "Fuck!" Zeo spat, punching the wall. "I should''ve killed him when I had the chance!"


    "I was surprised to find Viper''s brother dead too." The man gazed into Zeo''s eyes. "It was you, the Anglish, no doubt."


    "Who else knows about us?" Zeo asked, threatening his eye with the knife.


    "I helped the old man to get out of here . . . He''s probably spreading the word right now. Everyone in The Hunters will know soon."


    "Bloody hell!" Zeo shouted, the veins in his forehead bulging with rage.


    Remnya stood still, pale, and unable to react. Her brain was too weak to process the horrible turn of events, and her convalescent body could barely keep her on her feet.


    "We need to hurry." Zeo tried to bury the knife into the man''s throat, but Remnya reacted and snatched his arm, stopping him.


    "Zeo, no!" she yelled. "You''re not a murderer!" Remnya scanned Zeo from head to toe, her knees shaking as she scowled at him.


    Zeo stared back at her for a moment. "Rem, it''s too late to worry about that . . . "


    "Listen, kid," the man whispered, resignation in his voice. "You can kill me, but that won''t get you anywhere. Our army is not what you should be worried about. All this was just a huge trap for every one of us."


    "What do you mean?" Remnya asked.


    He sighed. "Someone else set us to fight against each other, kill each other. Alayna wanted revenge, and he wanted to get rid of Ronner, who had already become too dangerous. This was the perfect opportunity for him to kill two birds with one stone."


    "Him? Who is him?" Remnya clenched her fists, cold sweat rolling down her forehead.


    "Who else? The only true master, playing with the threads of destiny. He decides who lives and who dies. We''re just his pawns, young girl." The hands around his neck disappeared, and the man leaned closer, cradling his neck. "Alayna and Ronner will kill each other, and once again, he will win." He grinned. "The great master, Azmon. The leader of The Hunters."


    "Your leader," Zeo said, tilting his head as he scanned the soldier, searching for lies. "Aren''t you part of The Hunters too? Isn''t this great for you?"


    The man chuckled ironically. "We''re not part of The Hunters yet . . . Alayna and the rest of us are being tested to see if we''re worth it. We''re part of their disposable armies, guinea pigs. They promised Alayna a spot in The Hunters if she returned with Ronner''s head and eliminated both the Doman brothers. I suspected something was odd about this whole mission, but now it''s crystal clear. We are just pawns. Once Ronner and Viper are dead, all their fortune and power will belong to The Hunters. That''s how it has always been."


    "Why should we believe you?" Remnya asked, scowling.


    "You don''t have to, young girl." He chuckled.


    "If that''s so . . . why were you looking for us?" Zeo inquired, the glow in his eyes intensifying. Remnya leaned her hand on his trembling fist, where he held the knife.


    "I had hoped that finding you first would guarantee me a good position in The Hunters." He sighed. "I was wrong. You young fellas are too strong for me."


    Silence.


    "Zeo!" Remnya yelled as the man''s right hand glowed with a scarlet blaze, aimed like a sword at Zeo''s sides. Desperately, she tried to summon her fire.


    But before the heat could reach her hand, a knife buried into the man''s left eye, piercing through his brain until the tip stuck out from his nape, followed by a spurt of blood.


    The soldier fell on his side, convulsing as life left his body, and Zeo retrieved the knife with a quick yank. He wiped the blood against his pants and turned to face Remnya with a worried look.


    Remnya returned a blank stare, her heart echoing in her brain. Zeo said something, but she couldn''t hear him.


    A void filled her body, and dizziness hit her like a truck. Suddenly, everything began spinning around her.


    Warm arms surrounded her body as she collapsed, and her reality turned once again into horrible darkness.


    *¡ã*¡ã*

 41: A Blue Demon (Pt 1)

    Ronner


    An eerie full moon watched over the burnt field, where Ronner loomed over Alayna, who lay on a pond of blood, with half of her chest stained by dark red splotches and deep wounds.


    Ignoring his prey, Ronner fixed his gaze on Viper. The Doman brother stood tall, a white mist swirling around his body like crystal powder, glimmering under the moonlight. No matter how hard Ronner tried, he couldn''t detect fear in his eyes.


    Taking advantage of the distraction, Alayna sprang from the ground and smashed her fist against Ronner''s jaw, pushing him away as she broke free from his grasp. She bolted away, keeping a safe distance from him. Her breath was short and heavy, but her eyes burned with hatred and desire for revenge.


    Ronner giggled as a red line trailed down his lips, his gaze still locked on Viper. "What are you doing here? Is death such a tempting fate for you?" Ronner wiped the blood from his mouth and cracked his neck, his hair waving against a gust of dry wind. "Honestly, I thought you were smarter."


    "Honor brought me here," Viper said coldly, "something you know nothing about."


    "Honor?" Ronner guffawed. "What is honor when you''re dead?" He charged a magnetic field around his body, melting the last layer of ice around his legs, which exploded into gelid needles shot like bullets. Alayna struggled to dodge them, her moves slow and clumsy due to her wounds.


    "As I said, honor is something a man like you would never understand. I promised to fight, and I will."


    "Honor . . . " Ronner sneered. "Kidnapping my woman and my kid and using them as bait to lure me here? Where''s the honor in that, Viper?"


    "I saved your woman and your kid, and even Remnya," Viper shouted, scowling at him.


    "Remnya?" Alayna asked, her eyes widening.


    Viper gave her a sidelong glance and continued, "The little harm I caused Brisa is nothing compared to what you did to her, or the young girl."


    Ronner took a moment to process his words, his expression darkening. "Where is Brisa? If you tell me, your death might be quicker."


    "On her way to safety."


    "WHAT?" Alayna bellowed, gaping at Viper. "What the hell do you mean by that, Doman?" Alayna struggled to stand still, the veins in her forehead bulging with anger.


    "I''m sorry, Captain." Viper let out a deep sigh. "I decided I don''t want to use an innocent woman and her baby as tools for a pointless war."


    "Fucking traitor! How could you make such a decision behind my back?" Alayna''s voice echoed throughout the field, but Viper''s expression was stone, unreadable.


    Ronner''s mind became blank, trailing off as mixed feelings wrestled in his brain. Unable to understand his own feelings, he hesitated to speak.


    "If that''s true . . . " Ronner started, his pupils piercing into Viper''s soul, "what are you doing here?"


    "I already told you. Honor." Swords of ice engulfed Viper''s arms up to his shoulders, and the white mist turned into a vortex, lifting dust and pebbles around his body. "I promised Alayna I''d fight alongside her and help her avenge her comrades, the ones you murdered. I gave her my word, and I plan on keeping it."


    Silence.


    "I see . . . " Ronner whispered, clenching his fist. "Is Rem okay?" he asked, charging electric arcs around his arm.


    "She will be okay." The ground beneath Viper turned into a carpet of crystal, glimmering like glitter, and then a smile forced its way across his face. "I have a feeling someone will protect her."


    Realization fell on Ronner''s shoulders like an iron cross, crushing everything he knew until that moment. So, he allowed Zeo to reach Remnya . . .


    The image of Brisa flashed before his eyes for the last time, and the turmoil in his head dissipated. I wonder if we''ll ever meet again . . .


    "Alright," Ronner said, nodding as a grin covered his face. "Killing you might not be as enjoyable as I thought, after all." He glanced left and right, locating his prey.


    Facing the moonlight, Alayna trembled with fury. Most of her armor had been destroyed, and only her ragged coat covered her body. An orange blaze engulfed her arms, crackling and shooting sparks.


    "You''ll have to give me a few explanations after this," Alayna told Viper through clenched teeth, then her eyes locked on her target.


    "As you wish, captain," Viper replied, lifting his gelid fists into a fighting stance. "I''ll take responsibility for all my sins tonight."


    "As I will," Ronner interrupted, smirking.


    The time stopped.


    The calm before the storm.


    A war cry, and the silence shattered.


    Fire and ice clouded the sky like the children of honor and revenge, while a blue demon stood tall in the middle of the battlefield, laughing and taunting them like the grim reaper about to take the whole world to the depths of hell with him.


    *¡ã*¡ã*


    An earthquake boomed throughout the night, and the ground shattered beneath Ronner, who charged electricity in his fist. Flames neared him like blazing snakes from his right, and from his left, several blades of ice approached him, with their sharp edges gleaming under the moonlight.


    Ronner jumped, impulsed by a cobalt stream shot from his arm.


    The blades were buried into the soil, freezing it and shattering into thousands of needles. One snake of fire exploded nearby, raising burning debris and smoke, while the other followed Ronner into the sky.


    An electric arc clashed with the fire, causing an explosion that covered the battlefield with an orange glow, followed by a thick smoke cloud.


    Cutting through the smoke, two ice blades flashed before Ronner''s eyes. He threw his head away, dodging the first one, which sliced his cheek with a gelid edge that seemed to freeze his skull.


    The second blade was already under him, about to impale his body.


    This story is posted elsewhere by the author. Help them out by reading the authentic version.


    A magnetic field surrounded Ronner, followed by a shockwave that shattered the ice into a rainbow of frozen crystals.


    Unable to stay airborne, Ronner landed on the ground, only to feel the intense heat of a fireball roaring in his direction. He dashed through the smoke, trying to simultaneously avoid the attack and close distance with Alayna.


    Noticing his intentions, Viper rushed after him and froze one of his legs from behind.


    Ronner let out a groan of pain as the tendons in his leg threatened to break due to the brutal force he had to use to break free from his trap.


    The fireball roared by his side, burning part of his arm and leg, but he managed to avoid most of the damage.


    BOOM!


    A shockwave of intense heat and burning debris shook the night. Ronner could feel his skin melting.


    Ronner realized a ranged battle would be his doom. He had to close distance with at least one of them and kill them before they got a lucky hit. He eyed Alayna; she looked worn out, panting and limping behind a mountain of debris and flames. Despite her wounds, she looked decided to end that battle, even if that meant her own death. Viper was fresher, but Ronner concluded he wasn''t as dangerous as her.


    Ignoring the pain in his leg, he charged like a furious bull toward Alayna.


    Viper tried to stop him by freezing the ground beneath him but using his electricity, Ronner impulsed himself into the air and flew at her, leaving a cobalt trail of electricity and sparks behind him.


    Alayna reacted with two whips of fire, and from his right, a path of ice chased him, threatening his legs.


    Since Ronner was using his arm to keep himself airborne, he couldn''t protect himself from Alayna''s attack.


    As the intense heat approached his face, a crazy idea lit his brain. "Of course," Ronner murmured, halting in the middle of those two deadly traps.


    Twisting in the air, Ronner landed with his arm on the ice, which quickly froze up to his elbow, but he used an electric discharge to shatter it like glass.


    Before the fire reached him, Ronner summoned a magnetic field around his body and deflected most of her attack toward Viper. However, the heat burned part of his chest, arm, and legs. It was a small price to pay for his suicidal tactic.


    Ronner clenched his teeth as his skin hissed against the flames, but he managed to deflect the blaze toward the ice path, melting it and forming a trail of water between him and Viper.


    Quickly, Ronner buried his hand into the water and smirked at his victim.


    Viper''s eyes widened, realizing his mistake.


    Releasing massive energy, Ronner struck the ground with a brutal lightning bolt, which shattered the land in half.


    A cobalt flash turned the night into day, blinding everyone like the sun on earth.


    The electricity traveled through the water and reached Viper''s body.


    Electric arcs emerged from the ground, engulfing his body and shattering one of his arms. Lightning pierced his flesh, slowly burning his skin.


    Despite the sight, his scream was short and cold, followed by silence.


    Ronner smiled.


    When the hellish lightning faded into sparks and smoke, Viper''s body was still standing. However, half of his body had been destroyed. The flesh of his right arm and chest was falling apart up, and one of his eyes had exploded.


    Viper fell on his knees, trembling with smoke coming out of his mouth, eyes, and nose.


    "Dammit, is he still alive?" Ronner questioned, unaware of his surroundings.


    "DIE!" Alayna roared behind him.


    As he whirled to face her, he witnessed Alayna charging at him like a furious lioness ready to tear him apart.


    Having used a dangerous amount of energy, Ronner couldn''t react in time, and Alayna crushed his jaw with a powerful punch, followed by a sidekick that drew a mouthful of blood.


    Ronner''s body crashed into the ground, and she hopped over him to release a flurry of heavy blows against his skull.


    The whole world shook as if concrete blocks smashed his cranium, and crimson colored his vision. Alayna''s curses and screams blared in his ears like the cries of an angry and sorrowful beast.


    The punishment seemed to last hours, yet the pain was a feeling Ronner had forgotten.


    A crack echoed in Ronner''s head, and the night fell still again.


    Ronner took a moment to allow his eyelids to wipe the blood from his pupils and then glanced from the corner of his eye at Alayna.


    The captain sat over him with her face, arms, and knuckles covered by his blood. She was still and panting as if about to collapse. Her right fist was still buried into his face, so Ronner reached for it, but when he touched it, he realized the crack he had heard hadn''t come from his bones.


    Alayna''s right hand and wrist were completely broken.


    Ronner stifled a chuckle and clenched his fingers, shattering the rest of her bones. She didn''t make a single sound, but her eyes displayed pure hatred.


    He tried to sit up, but Alayna slammed her head against his nose, breaking his bridge.


    Ronner winced and cursed between teeth, "Fuck! You won''t give up, will you?"


    She said nothing, and Ronner took advantage of the moment to recover some energy. Leaning his hand against Alayna''s chest, he released an electric shock into her body.


    Her whole body convulsed, and her eyes glowed with lightning and sparks before she fell on her side, half unconscious.


    Ronner sat up, the whole reality spinning around him, and his jaw on the verge of falling apart, yet he still felt no pain. He swallowed the blood in his mouth and glanced at the prideful captain. Alayna lay next to him, breathing heavily and covered by blood. Her eyes had lost their fire; they glistened under the moonlight.


    "Why . . . " Alayna murmured, her voice trembling while her expression shattered like crystal, giving way to a hint of despair. "Why does a disgusting man like you exist . . . Why?"


    Ronner shrugged, wiping the blood from his mouth. "You should''ve disappeared when I gave you a chance, dear." He twisted his lips and spat on the ground next to her. "Trying to join The Hunters was your last mistake."


    "Why you of all people?" Alayna shouted, her whole body quivering with frustration and anger. She squeezed her eyes shut and tightened her lips. "You don''t deserve anything you have . . . Not when you took everything from me!" A red tear trailed down her cheek.


    Ronner giggled and stood up, staggering until he managed to regain balance. "Don''t worry, if either of you tells me where Brisa is, I''ll allow you to live another day." He stepped on her chest and loomed over her with an arrogant look.


    Tears left a trail of desperation along Alayna''s face, yet her fiery voice was the one of a warrior. "I have no idea where she is . . . and even if I did, I would never tell you, fucking piece of shit!"


    "That''s ok." Ronner buried his foot into Alayna''s wounds. She let out a wail of pain and contorted on the ground. "I still have enough energy to cause you a lot more pain before your death." He smirked.


    "Despite everything, you haven''t changed a bit," Viper murmured, his eyes still locked on the ground and his knees buried into a pond of blood.


    "Ah, still alive? You''re a tough motherfucker, aren''t you?" Ronner sneered, increasing the pressure against Alayna''s chest.


    "Let her live . . . " Viper lifted his gaze at Ronner. His right eye was gone, burned along with half of his face. "I''ll tell you where Brisa is heading if you give me your word and allow Alayna to live."


    "I am all ears." Ronner opened his arms and looked down his nose at him with a contemptuous smile. "Once you speak, I''ll decide what to do with her."


    "If you can''t even do that . . . " Viper stood up, fury flashing in his eye. For the first time, Ronner witnessed rage in the Doman brother. "If you can''t even do that . . . you don''t deserve to call yourself a warrior!" His voice boomed. "No matter how strong you are. You''ll never be a man!"


    Ronner scrutinized Viper from head to toe. "I don''t care about being a man, and I don''t care about being a warrior. All I want is seeing her again."


    "Wish granted," a voice echoed across the burning ruins of the field.


    Ronner whirled to face what he realized would be his last enemy.


    A man clad in The Hunters'' uniform stood in the middle of the night. Next to the stranger, a wounded man lay on the ground, bleeding from a deep cut across his stomach. Ronner recognized him: Danny.


    Ronner''s breath ran short as he lifted his eyes, and his heart sunk to the bottom of his chest.


    Held by a massive arm wrapped around her neck and with a gun aimed at her head, Ronner acknowledged his fate.


    Brisa.


    Her golden eyes fixed on Ronner, who froze at the sight of the woman he loved.


    Yet, he saw no fear in her. He could no longer read her beautiful golden eyes.


    The man tightened his grip around her neck, fury in his gaze. Familiar eyes. Eyes Ronner had witnessed when he destroyed Alayna''s army six years ago.


    "You might want to consider your choices now," the man said coldly and cocked his gun.


    "Kira?" Alayna murmured, trembling as she raised her head with painful difficulty. "You''re still alive . . . How?"


    The man glanced at Alayna and tightened his lips.


    Hiding the turmoil in his mind, Ronner smiled and spoke calmly, "Oh, Kira, was it? Alayna''s favorite dog. I was sure I had killed you back then."


    "You got it right. Kira, the dog as you call me, and also," He looked at Brisa and then glared at Ronner, "the owner of her life."


    Before Ronner could reply, Viper interrupted them with a sorrowful murmur, "Danny . . . Why?"


    "I''m sorry, Cassius, " Danny whispered, trembling on the ground while blood stained his blue shirt. "They found us. . ."


    *¡ã*¡ã*

 42: A Blue Demon (Pt 2)

    Ronner


    A gust of hot wind hit Ronner''s face while a tense smirk danced above his bloody lips. Glowing embers floated across the battlefield like fireflies, and old trunks fell apart, crackling as furious flames devoured them.


    The moon was gone, and the night sky had fallen still, awaiting the next move that would seal the future of many. Only the stars were witnesses of an unknown destiny.


    Ronner''s gaze connected with Brisa''s golden eyes, which stared back at him, and a profound turmoil invaded his mind. He could betray anyone in the world but her. Yet, despite his doubts, Brisa''s expression showed no fear; silently, she yelled at him to finish what he had started.


    Clenching his fist, Ronner glanced at Danny, who struggled to breathe on the ground. Unless a doctor arrived in time, he wouldn''t make it.


    Spitting blood over Alayna''s wounded body, Ronner took the first step forward. "What''s your big plan, dog?" he shouted at Kira, cracking his knuckle. "If you kill Brisa, I''ll tear you and your bitch apart. You know that."


    "You''re a dead man, you already know that. The question is . . . " Kira stifled a chuckle, his grip tightening around Brisa''s neck. "How do you plan to go?"


    Ronner glanced at Alayna, who struggled to sit up. Killing her would be easy. However, his priority was Kira. Ronner had defeated him six years ago, but he was a different warrior now, and Brisa''s fate was in his hands.


    No more mistakes.


    Lightning could reach Kira before he could pull the trigger, but the energy released would kill Brisa.


    Using Alayna as a hostage was a tempting option, but as Ronner turned to her, a heavy punch landed against his nose.


    Ronner flinched, staggering backward, and from the corner of his eye, he saw Alayna clumsily leaping away from him. She stood her ground with her sane arm raised in a fighting stance. Despite her severe wounds, catching her wouldn''t be easy. Her pride was still as unbreakable as the last time they met.


    What was that oppression on his chest? Regret, perhaps?


    No. Ronner refused to believe such a thing. The mighty blue demon never regretted anything.


    Never.


    Never . . .


    Not even what he did six years ago to a younger Alayna and her growing army. They weren''t his target, yet he couldn''t help but have fun with them. Ronner was on his way to eliminate his last target. One of the most powerful men in the country; the ex-Magenta''s boss. The same man who had ruined The Lady''s life.


    Alayna''s army had nothing to do with it.


    They were innocent.


    They were innocent . . .


    Those thoughts drilled into Ronner''s brain as he witnessed Kira''s gun pointed at his face.


    A gunshot.


    Ronner could barely see the bullet with his blood-stained eye, but he dodged it at the last millisecond.


    His reflex action was to try to charge at Kira with lightning growing in his arm, but the man quickly shoved his gun against Brisa''s temple.


    Ronner halted, and a smirk drew across Kira''s face. "I know what you''re thinking," his enemy said, "you still believe you can fool me and take advantage of your speed to reach me before I pull the trigger."


    Brisa locked her eyes on Ronner and slowly shook her head.


    Gritting his teeth, Ronner allowed his energy to vanish from his arm. "Fair enough." He smiled, burying his nails into his hand. "What do you want from me? What''s the price for her life?"


    "Their lives," Kira corrected him. "I already know she''s carrying your child."


    "Is that so?" Ronner took two steps forward. "I know you. You''re not the kind of man who would murder an unborn child."


    "The fuck you know about me, Ronner?" Kira shouted, his voice full of contempt and spite.


    Ronner swallowed, and for the first time in years, his heart hastened a little. An unknown feeling crawled on his back, a feeling he barely remembered. The last time Ronner had felt something similar was fifteen years ago when he lost the last person he cared about.


    After that, his life was stained by blood and lust, burying any useless feeling in the depths of his rotten soul. Why would such a pathetic sentiment arise at the worst possible moment?


    Grandma would be disappointed, Ronner thought. The old hag will think she raised a weakling.


    Fuck no . . .


    Her sacrifice won''t be in vain.


    Hell can wait. I''m not going yet.


    "Dear Kira, even if you say that . . . " Ronner wiped the blood from his nose with the back of his hand. "I know you''re weak," he murmured, lifting his eye into a mocking gaze. "This is the only way you have to fight me. I know you couldn''t protect Alayna six years ago." Ronner sniggered. "I know you watched her getting raped by my men and did nothing other than crying like a little bitch." He stifled a chuckle. "Am I wrong?"


    Kira''s eyes reddened with fury, and in a sweep of his hand, he aimed the shotgun at Ronner''s head. "If you dare dodge this bullet, I''ll bury this fucking knife into her neck." In his left hand, the blade of a short knife gleamed under the flickering flames, pointing at Brisa''s neck. She breathed slowly with her pupils locked on Ronner, who recognized her silent words; Brisa was telling him to kill that damned bastard.


    "You won''t dare to do that because you''re a coward," Ronner challenged him with a wide bloody smile that reflected the fire surrounding them and took another step forward.


    The narrative has been stolen; if detected on Amazon, report the infringement.


    "Fucking piece of shit." Kira cocked his gun. "You don''t deserve to live, disgusting narcissist. You don''t even care about your own woman." Kira''s finger slowly pressed the trigger.


    "You''re right." Ronner nodded, charging electricity in his arm. "I don''t give a shit about her nor my spawn, nor any of you."


    Wrath flashed in Kira''s eyes as he pulled the trigger.


    Thunder rumbled throughout the arid field.


    The time stopped.


    Ronner glimpsed a familiar face on the horizon, staring at him. Those eyes warmed up the coldness in his body and soul.


    "Old hag, what are you doing here?" Ronner whispered.


    A familiar woman stood beside Kira, who was frozen, holding Brisa, who never took her beautiful eyes away from Ronner.


    The woman nodded, and Ronner knew what she meant.


    "As you order . . . "


    The time resumed, and a blazing bullet neared his head as fast as lightning.


    Ronner dodged the bullet.


    Kira''s left hand twitched and trembled as he reluctantly pushed the knife into Brisa''s neck.


    . . .


    But instead of Brisa''s skin, the knife broke through someone else''s arm.


    Danny had shoved his body against Kira and pushed his arm between the knife and Brisa, causing the blade to bury into his muscle. The tip came out from the other side of his forearm, but it was already far from Brisa''s neck.


    Before Kira could react, a layer of ice engulfed his arm, stopping him from hurting Danny further. Astonished, Kira loosened his grip around Brisa, and Danny took advantage of it to push him with all his strength, causing him to lose balance and giving Brisa an opening to break free from him.


    As Brisa fell to the ground and crawled away, Kira tried to catch her, but a blinding cobalt flash turned the night into a hellish day.


    Lightning struck Kira in the head, who desperately shot at Ronner. Most bullets missed, but three impacted Ronner''s legs and stomach.


    The shock paralyzed and burned Kira''s body, and part of the massive amount of energy transferred to Danny. Ronner diverted the lightning toward the ground, reducing the impact on Kira to save the young man from being cooked alive.


    Danny collapsed on the ground, his body convulsing, while Kira refused to fall but dropped his shotgun and knife.


    Ronner limped to Brisa and covered her body with his. He rushed to check on her, scanning her body in search of wounds. Brisa returned a reassuring look: besides the marks of fingers around her neck and minor bruises, she was alright.


    Eyeing his surroundings, Ronner spotted Alayna covered in ice too, and a long trail of frost reached Viper''s body, who lay unconscious with his arm buried into the ground.


    That bastard . . . He used his remaining strength to stop them.


    Darting his eye back at Kira, Ronner noticed his enemy''s body smoking. The lightning bolt had left a small hole in his forehead, and blood spilled down his nose. Yet, a smirk was plastered all over his face.


    "Do you think I didn''t prepare myself for your lightning for the past six years?" Kira sneered, lifting his long sleeve. Only then, Ronner noticed a metallic net surrounding his arms, chest, and legs. He recognized a titanium exoskeleton, a device used for soldiers to shield themselves from electricity manipulators like himself.


    If he had only used more energy instead of avoiding Danny''s death.


    There was no time for regrets; his priority was their lives.


    "Disappear." Kira''s voice turned into ice as he shoved his hand into his waist, drawing a revolver.


    Being too weak, Ronner couldn''t charge enough electricity on time. His only reaction was to pick up Brisa, shielding her with his body while he tried to take her to safety.


    Five gunshots roared across the night.


    The first canon bullet penetrated Ronner''s lung, and two more dug into his spinal cord. Ronner didn''t stop; he clenched his teeth and rushed toward a mountain of rubble and debris looming behind a wall of flames. The fourth bullet destroyed his other lung, and the fifth penetrated his liver.


    A burning sensation filled his stomach, and the metallic flavor of blood filled his mouth and nose. His legs weakened with every step, threatening to bend and break like the branches of a dying tree. Yet, Ronner would never stop. Not until Brisa was safe.


    Two more bullets whistled past his head as Ronner reached his destination, hiding behind a mountain of ruins and finally fell on his knees, dropping Brisa on the ground. The whole world spun around him as his brain assimilated the damage his body had received. There was no pain, but as Ronner tried to speak, his voice barely came out. Oxygen had left his lungs.


    "Are you ok?" Ronner murmured between short empty breaths.


    Brisa sat up, lifted her teary eyes at him, and then nodded. She gripped his hand and spoke softly. "Why do you keep fighting?"


    "For you . . . " Ronner muttered as a bullet buried in his left side exploded, causing a blast of blood and muscle that splattered Brisa''s face and the ground. He made a pause and gritted his teeth. "I hate Canon Bullets."


    Undisturbed, Brisa rushed to wrap part of her torn dress around Ronner''s side and pushed with all her strength to stop the hemorrhage.


    Ronner widened his eye at the courage of her woman. He could barely recognize the scared maid from the mansion. "You know," he started, his voice thin like a thread. "It''s a bit too late now, but . . . " Ronner turned to his side and coughed a mouthful of blood. His eye returned to Brisa. "I''ve finally come to understand my mission in this fucking world."


    A tear trailed down Brisa''s cheeks, but as she tried to speak, Ronner sprang from the ground to peek at Kira from behind the ruins.


    Out of bullets, his enemy rushed to pick up his loaded shotgun lying on the field.


    Ronner charged a lightning bolt in his arm, but only sparks shot from his fingers. "Fuck . . . I got no enough energy to charge," he whispered, letting out a chuckle while Brisa gripped his sides. His blood dripped between her fingers, staining her dress as she held him tightly. "But . . . I still have enough energy to use a last magnetic field . . . " Ronner panted, his throat closing as his heart rate slowed. "You''ll need to run into the forest and make it as far away from here as possible."


    "Do you plan to die like that?" Brisa questioned, shaking her head as she glared at him, her eyes glistening, filled with fire. "Is this how you plan to go?"


    Ronner twisted his lips into a weak smile. "Wish I had more choices, my dear, but I don''t."


    Silence.


    "No," Brisa whispered in his ear, wrapping her arms around his torso. "You can do it . . . You can do it!" Her weak whisper turned into a lioness roar. "I believe in you, Ron! You can do this!"


    Ronner took a moment to process her words while Kira dashed through flames, trying to find the best angle to shoot at them.


    "I won''t leave your side because I know you can do it." Brisa leaned her head against his back, her tears soaking his blood-stained clothes, and her body, trembling and burning with fury and hope, now put in him.


    That''s when Ronner realized the meaning of her words.


    The words someone else had told him on her last breath too.


    The words that sealed his fate.


    . . .


    Why could I never see it before?


    When it was right in front of my eyes . . .


    Did I have to lose my eye to finally see it?


    Kira emerged from behind the flames with his shotgun aimed at his head.


    Victorious, his enemy laughed.


    The same way Ronner had laughed so many times at his dying victims.


    In the end . . .


    This is my fate . . .


    Ronner smirked while Kira pulled the trigger for the last time.


    Perhaps it was the warmth of that woman against his cold body while life drained into a pond of crimson. Or perhaps, it was her sweet voice echoing in his mind.


    Or perhaps, it was that child he had sworn to protect with his life, the only mark a demon could leave on that cruel world.


    I finally understand that idiot . . .


    Marcus . . .


    You died well . . .


    Ronner had never feared death until that night.


    A blue demon raised.


    No pain, no sadness, no anger.


    Only a will. A will that charged the most monstrous hope, hissing and sparkling in blinding cobalt plasma.


    Like a spiderweb, lightning spread across the sky.


    Kira shot.


    Dreams and nightmares merged into a written fate.


    Like a sun in the darkness and fire in the water, several warriors became immortal that night.


    A tempest wailed like a banshee, freezing and burning the bones of those who still had humanity.


    A flash among the stars.


    And then.


    Silence.


    *¡ã*¡ã*

 43: A Demon Turned Human

    Ronner


    The void left in Ronner''s chest at the tender age of eleven had consumed the lives of many. Innocent souls, victims of a futile attempt to fulfill the empty darkness.


    Hundreds of women had visited his bed during his life, faceless humans with no names. Numbers in the records of his tumultuous memories. Sporadic feelings, unable to cloud the pain from his loss.


    His second love had been Death. Rivers of blood washed his humanity away, the metallic flavor in his mouth and nose, and the sweet screams of another life put down by his hand.


    Yet none of it was enough. It was never enough.


    Magenta had come for him at the right time.


    The Lady gave him a chance to turn nightmares into dreams. Power, flesh, and money at the tip of his fingers in exchange for blood and bones. The perfect deal that sealed too many fates.


    Naively, she was seeking revenge and peace, and Ronner, a chance to prove himself capable of the impossible. What could go wrong?


    They shared the same bed too many times, but Ronner never loved her, and neither did she.


    No.


    They both loved someone else.


    How stupid.


    How fucking stupid, right, Magenta?


    Ronner sighed and clenched his fists. If you had only stuck to our deal . . . Perhaps, you''d be alive today.


    Perhaps Marcus would be alive tonight . . . I wouldn''t have had to kill him.


    You could be happy with him, and I . . .


    Ronner hesitated.


    And I . . .


    You could be happy too.


    Widening his eyes, Ronner overheard a familiar voice. He chuckled. What the fuck are you doing here, Magenta?


    You''re still too stupid to see it. Why am I not surprised?


    Clenching his teeth into a cynical smile, Ronner spat his words into a silent question, "Have you come to enjoy the sight?"


    Magenta giggled, her soothing voice echoing in his brain. "No. I''ve come to open your eyes. How long do you plan to be a blind fool?"


    Her last words resounded in the void of his mind until they faded, giving way to an eerie silence.


    "I''m not blind anymore . . . " Ronner murmured. "I don''t need you nor anyone to tell me this."


    "Your ego has always been your worst enemy."


    "Do you still think so?" He smirked bitterly and bit his tongue.


    Closing his eyes, Ronner took a moment to decide whether he was already dead or not.


    Finally, he spoke again, "I don''t give a shit about what you think. You''re dead. He is dead. Your baby daughter is dead."


    "You''re right. We''re only ghosts from the past . . . Your past."


    "Yet . . ." Ronner took a deep breath. "I could finally understand why you two died with a smile."


    "You all died fighting for what you believed in . . . Even if it was stupid and useless . . . Even if your deaths achieved nothing. I told you this before, and I''ll repeat it now . . . Marcus died like a fool."


    "So let me ask you this . . . Why did I agree to give him a proper burial? Why is it that even though I knew his daughter''s and ex-wife''s location, I never tried to hurt them?"


    A knot closed Ronner''s throat as he searched for answers in the turmoil of his head.


    "Because you respected that fool," Magenta said.


    . . .


    "I did . . ." Ronner whispered, swallowing his last droplet of ego. "I respected that fool, and despite everything, I respected you too."


    "Oh, I know you did."


    "I was never gonna carry out my threat. Even though I knew you would never speak and I needed your money . . . I couldn''t bring myself to humiliate you the way I wanted . . . I lied. I wasn''t gonna do it."


    A case of literary theft: this tale is not rightfully on Amazon; if you see it, report the violation.


    "I know that."


    "Then, why?" Clenching his teeth, Ronner hissed and glared into the horizon. "Tell me why you chose to die?"


    "Because I wanted to be with them . . . It''s not easy to stay in the shallow cold when the loves of your life are waiting for you on the other side."


    . . .


    "I see."


    . . .


    "May you find your peace, Magenta . . . because I never did."


    Silence.


    "Goodbye, Ron."


    *¡ã*¡ã*


    Facing his destiny, Ronner stood taller than ever, with an immense amount of energy roaring and hissing around his broken arm. Lightning shot in every direction, crashing and piercing holes into the rocks and the ground.


    Electric arcs and sparks swirled around Brisa''s hair, caressing her face and gleaming in her wide-open eyes that witnessed how something so brutal and savage could be so harmless to her.


    Brisa tightened her grip around Ronner''s waist and whispered in his ear. Her words drowned under the wail of his electricity, but Ronner understood what she meant.


    Kira shot, and hundreds of bullets blazed through smoke, flames, and dust.


    Victorious, his enemy laughed maniacally. However, Ronner smirked, the same way he had done so many times.


    Bursting with the energy of a morning star, a massive cobalt plasma ball grew between them, turning the night into a blue day. Not even Alayna''s fire could compare with the heat emanating from Ronner''s last ball of lightning.


    The energy melted the rocks around them, leaving a trail of magma behind as it approached its target.


    Like a cobalt dragon of plasma, Ronner''s last attack released all its fury, covering Kira and Ronner himself.


    The blast made the whole city shake with the force of a hundred earthquakes.


    Ronner hugged Brisa as the shockwave hit them and sent them flying through molten rocks and burning trees.


    The cobalt day turned into darkness.


    Silence engulfed the field.


    . . .


    Trembling, Brisa sat up to witness her surroundings. Ronner lay on top of her with his arm wrapped around her torso.


    Covered by thick black smoke, a gigantic crater burned in front of them, radiating an intense heat that distorted reality.


    A silhouette glowed amid the inferno as the smoke dissipated into the sky. Brisa gasped.


    Kira stood still in front of them. All his clothes were gone, and his body had turned a dark brown with smoke coming out of it. There was a hole in his chest, perfectly shaped. With his heart gone forever, Kira coughed a spurt of black blood and collapsed against the molten rocks, his legs and arms falling apart.


    His whole body vanished into nothingness, and the wind carried away his ashes.


    Lying stiff on the ground, Ronner chuckled. Brisa rushed to turn his body around and gazed into his eye.


    A single bullet had penetrated Ronner''s head, and blood flowed from it like a crimson river of life and death. Ronner tried to sit up, but his body didn''t respond anymore. The blue demon fell into the arms of the woman he loved.


    The last fire vanished, and the wind went quiet.


    Staring at the sky, Ronner realized the stars had never looked so beautiful.


    Hot tears landed on his face, mixing with his blood. Why was Brisa crying? He didn''t deserve her tears. He never did.


    Glimpsing through a layer of red covering his iris, Ronner contemplated Brisa sitting next to him, holding his cold body in the middle of the void of the night.


    Why was he still alive? That bullet had been buried in his brain. What kept him alive?


    Her sobs reached his ears, causing his weak heart to beat a little bit faster. "Why are you crying?" Ronner muttered while a gelid breeze hugged him from behind.


    Brisa said nothing. She buried her face against his broken chest and muffled her sobs. Ronner tried to caress her hair, but his arm didn''t move.


    "Don''t cry anymore . . . " His heart stopped for a moment, causing an excruciating pain throughout his body, yet he didn''t care and continued, "This is my fate . . . and I don''t deserve any of your tears."


    "You made it this far . . . " Brisa whispered, lifting her head to stare at him.


    How beautiful she was.


    "Despite everything, you kept your promise," Brisa wiped her tears, her face stained by his blood. "You have no idea how much I hated you . . . yet . . . " She sniffled and smiled. "You truly showed me you could change."


    Her words cut through Ronner''s soul like a sharp knife, burying into his heart and mind. He gritted his teeth and squeezed his eye shut in a futile attempt to stop the pain he had been holding inside for over fifteen years.


    A tear trailed down Ronner''s cheek, drawing a clean line through the dried blood.


    "You''re human after all," Brisa assured him, leaning her forehead against his. "You made mistakes, yes, but . . . " She closed her eyes, trying to stop the tears that still landed on Ronner''s face. "I forgive you . . . "


    "I forgive you."


    Those words resonated in his mind, shattering everything he had believed in for fifteen years.


    Hatred, lust, greed . . .


    Those shallow feelings had never filled the emptiness of his chest.


    Yet those simple words had given him that peace not even all the money and power in the universe could ever buy.


    "Thank you . . . " Ronner murmured as blood began to fill his throat. "Thank you for everything."


    Brisa returned a tender smile and slowly leaned on him. Her warm lips touched his, sending waves of peace throughout his whole body, causing his tears to flow again as they did fifteen years ago when life had taken everything from him.


    Ronner realized he''d live forever in the woman he loved and the fruit she carried in her.


    In the end, it seems like what kept me alive for this long was my endless search for a reason to die . . . Don''t you agree, old hag?


    You''ve already found it . . .


    Not a reason to die. A reason to live forever. Join me on this journey, boy.


    We''re gonna walk the bowels of hell again, grandma?


    That''s where we belong. We''re demons, this is our home. She chuckled. I''ve been waiting for you here, my dear boy.


    So be it, old hag.


    Ronner smirked and stared at Brisa for the last time.


    "Tell my kid that I loved him, and despite all, I truly loved his mother."


    Tears welled up in Brisa''s eyes as she tightened the grip around his body. She nodded.


    Ronner allowed his head to rest, leaning on Brisa''s arms, and finally, his heart stopped.


    . . .


    Silence.


    At the gates of hell, Ronner caught a glimpse of a better future.


    His boy would change the fate of many.


    Rem . . . Please, take care of them.


    As the first sunbeam of the morning seeped through the mountains, an immortal warrior had left the earth.


    A demon turned human.


    His name was Ronner.

 44: On That Day

    Remnya


    The glare of dawn blinded Remnya as she squinted into the horizon, trying to recognize her surroundings. An unknown reality spun around her like the roulette of life and death. Glimpsing the trees passing by her side, Remnya realized she was moving.


    Heartbeats hammered against her head, echoing in her brain, merging with the panting of someone next to her. Shielding her eyes from the orange glow of the morning, Remnya lifted her head and witnessed Zeo carrying her in his arms.


    He strode through the thick forest, his cold gaze locked on the path ahead. Branches and thorns scratched his body, but he advanced like an unstoppable warrior.


    An avalanche of questions filled her head, and Remnya tried to remember the recent events, but a terrible headache attacked her brain, making her grimace in pain.


    Zeo glanced at her and rushed to a halt next to a tree looming over a rocky field. He kneeled, easing her against the trunk, and ruffled her hair, lifting her bangs from her forehead, which felt like burning.


    "I''m glad you''re awake, Rem," he murmured, wiping the sweat from her skin with a soft rag.


    Remnya stretched her neck and squinted at him, blinking as she took her time to recognize her savior. "Zeo . . . where are we?"


    "It seems like your fever has gone down a little," Zeo replied, ignoring her question, and held her face between his hands tightly to stare deep into her eyes. "Try to rest. We''ll need to keep moving soon . . . " As the words left his mouth, Zeo dropped onto the leafy soil and let out a deep, exhausted breath. He leaned on a massive rock nearby and closed his eyes.


    Remnya dragged herself closer to Zeo, noticing a shotgun hanging from his back. She gulped and grabbed his hand. "How long have you been running with me?"


    "Doesn''t matter, Rem," he whispered, squeezing her hand. "Just a little more, and we''ll make it."


    The forest fell still.


    From behind a dark row of mountains, sunbeams seeped through a veil of clouds, and the last bit of blue of the night faded. A tender breeze caressed Remnya''s hair while the faint scent of distant rains and dust floated in the air.


    A myriad of birds woke up amid the canopies above their heads, announcing a new beginning.


    Holding Zeo''s hand, Remnya stared toward the place they had left behind. An eerie gray mist lingered in the distance like the ashes of a battle. She swallowed through a closed throat and gripped the pendant hanging from her neck.


    Protect her, please . . . You''re the only one who can do it.


    Remnya turned to Zeo and scanned his face and body in search of wounds. His bruises were still there, but there was no fresh blood anymore.


    Leaning next to Zeo, Remnya wrapped her arms around him and gently pulled him against her chest. He didn''t react and allowed her to hold him tightly next to her heart, hammering with a mixture of indecipherable feelings. Remnya kissed his forehead and squeezed his body, once so thin and fragile, now so sturdy and fierce.


    Zeo fell asleep in her arms, and Remnya allowed herself to cherish the silence of the moment. A moment she knew it wouldn''t last.


    "You need to stay with me," Remnya whispered in his ear, clenching her fingers around his skin. "Stay with me . . . please."


    In the prelude of the morning, their souls connected once again, embracing each other, refusing to accept the cruel fate those monsters had chosen for them.


    Why can''t Zeo be happy? Remnya asked the sky and wondered what a Nephilim could do to change that. The horned witch must have had a reason to be born. Her crimson fire couldn''t be just an erratic joke of destiny.


    What was her mission?


    Remnya didn''t know whether or not she had fallen asleep, but in the middle of the void of her thoughts, she overheard footsteps drawing nearer. She glanced left and right, trying to discern the danger among the vegetation, but only a chilly wind whistled in her ears, raising her long hair.


    Convinced it was just her imagination, Remnya closed her eyes again, but an unknown murmur froze her blood.


    A few meters away from them, two men talked. Their voices were unrecognizable, but she knew their intentions could bring no good. Remnya shook Zeo, who opened his tired eyes, but before she could say anything, he put his fingers on her lips, silencing her. Slowly, Zeo stood up, peeking at the intruders from behind the rock.


    A cold shiver ran down Remnya''s spine, and her heart seemed to want to break free from her ribcage.


    Zeo''s ears twitched; he could hear what they were saying. His face lost all its color, and his pupils dilated as he glared at the intruders. Without taking his eyes away from them, Zeo gripped Remnya''s hand, his skin as cold as ice.


    "What are they saying?" Remnya whispered, squeezing her body against him, trying to peek from behind the rock.


    When Zeo''s gaze met hers, Remnya understood the meaning of his silence. His pale face and melancholic eyes told her everything she needed to know. Remnya tightened her lips as her whole world shattered again, crushing any slim hope her stupid self had believed possible. She nodded while her heart sunk into a void of gloom.


    The men murmured one last time, and then their voices faded. Even the song of the forest felt silent.


    A flock of blue parrots flew into the sky, fleeing from what Remnya felt was rotten energy. Ignoring reality for the last time, Remnya thought those animals were beautiful.


    Zeo buried his fingers in her skin, and like a bullet, he sprang from the ground pulling her with him.


    Remnya did her best not to stumble as he dragged her violently through rocks, thorns, and vines. She couldn''t hear anything except for her own heart kicking like crazy against her throat.


    The time slowed, and Remnya felt like floating in the forest for a moment. Blind and deaf, they ran into the unknown. Was it a dream or a nightmare? What were they running away from?


    All their enemies were dead . . .


    As reality seemed to fade away, an acute feeling-like stab paralyzed her right leg. Remnya bumped into Zeo, who halted in front of her. Drained of energy, Remnya almost lost her balance, but he caught her.


    Ignoring the source of her pain, Remnya lifted her dilated eyes to face what lay ahead.


    Scarlet pupils penetrated her soul in a gelid gaze that resembled death. In front of them, a bulky man with long dark hair stood still amid the forest. His wrinkled face was stone as he twisted his pale lips into an unreadable expression.


    He wore a black coat that reached his toes, and a silver emblem gleamed on his shoulder with the orange light of the sunrise.


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    "Are you ok?" Zeo asked, between clenched teeth, glaring at the stranger in front of him.


    Remnya lowered her face to check her leg and noticed a red chain attached to her ankle. The other side of it ended at the unknown man''s hand. Her jaw dropped, and her soul tried to escape her body. That man emanated energy she had never felt before. Not even Skado or Persen had such a heavy and gloomy aura.


    "Don''t worry, Remnya Scheduna." The man''s voice echoed in her brain. Despite his grim presence, his voice was oddly gentle. "I''m not here to hurt you." The chain wrapped around her ankle turned black and unwrapped, releasing her, and returned to his hand. Suddenly, all the pain in her leg disappeared.


    Zeo took one step backward and covered her body with his. "Who are you, and what the hell do you want?" he shouted, his voice trembling.


    As he spoke, a spark flashed in his scarlet pupils, "I came here for her, so please step aside, crossbreed."


    "Are you from The Hunters, aren''t you?" Zeo asked, taking another step backward.


    "The Hunters?" Remnya muttered, swallowing as she squeezed Zeo''s hand.


    "That''s correct," he replied, his chain chiming against the silver tips of his boots. "We have no interest in dirty crossbreeds like you, so . . . " He lifted his arm, swinging his chain upward. "Move."


    "Wait!" Remnya yelled, stepping forward in front of Zeo. "Do not dare hurt him!" Her frozen blood melted with the heat of her heart, now beating harder than ever.


    The man lowered his arm, and his heavy chain slammed into the ground, resonating throughout the forest.


    "Is it me who you want, right?" Remnya glared at him.


    "Shut up! There''s no way I''ll let him take you!" Zeo roared, struggling to pull her behind him.


    "Listen, Remnya Scheduna." The man clicked his tongue and tilted his head. "You might''ve grown a sympathy for that crossbreed boy, but such creatures are a mistake of nature. They must not exist, and it''s our job to ensure the balance of the world is restored by eliminating them."


    "That''s stupid!" Remnya spat, taking two steps forward, ignoring Zeo''s attempts to stop her. "Aren''t you the ones supposed to protect us? What kind of sick mindset is that, old man?" Her crimson eyes blazed.


    Silence.


    The man lifted his thick eyebrows. "We''re here to ensure our race prevails in this decaying world." He shook his head, causing his long hair to wave, revealing two horns, the same shape as Remnya''s, but bigger and darker. He pulled his coat aside, and a long tail rose from behind his legs. "Lieutenant Edo from the 731 Hunters'' Force, Crysalton''s last line of defense." He bowed to her. "This is our world, Remnya Scheduna." His eyes darted at Zeo. "Deviants like your pet friend and Ronner should not exist."


    Remnya''s pupils dilated as the color left her face. She began shaking, and Zeo rushed to grab her arm and step in front of her.


    "Yeah, I''m not surprised," Zeo raised his voice, scanning the man with contempt. "It all makes sense. You''re the ones who control everything, aren''t you? You''re the ones who turned Karx into the enemy and played the heroes in the war. Tell me something, is Alayna your puppet too?"


    Edo said nothing and brushed a long strand of hair aside as his chain glowed red. "Allow me to put an end to your pitiful existence, crossbreed."


    "NO!" Remnya screamed, pushing Zeo away with all her strength.


    The chain buzzed above Zeo, scratching Remnya''s arm as she fell on top of him.


    "That was close," Edo said with disgust, retracting the chain around his forearm. "I don''t want to hurt you, Remnya Scheduna. Move!"


    Zeo''s pupils thinned like a feline and began glowing in an emerald color, and his two vectors emerged from the ground. Remnya rolled next to Zeo and snatched the shotgun from his back to aim at their enemy.


    With cold, trembling fingers, she pulled the trigger.


    The canon bullets exploded as Remnya discharged the weapon on the Nephilim. Sparks and smoke engulfed Edo as the ammo burst against his body, pushing him away with a barrage of titanium and fire.


    Taking advantage of the distraction, Zeo pulled Remnya with him toward the denser part of the forest.


    They hid behind a massive rock with their backs glued against each other. Remnya gripped the gun and panted frenetically while Zeo''s vectors whistled around them like a swarm of furious hornets. Her cold hands quivered as she tried to reload the shotgun.


    "Run east and don''t stop," Zeo murmured while a bead of sweat rolled down his forehead, sliding on his cheek.


    "What do you mean?" Remnya muttered, leaning her head against Zeo''s, their bodies trembling together.


    "If what Danny told me is true, the next city is controlled by Karx. It''s the safest place for you right now."


    "You expect me to leave you behind just like that?" She clenched her teeth while tears welled up in her eyes, blurring her vision.


    "We stand no chance against that monster, you know that. However, I can still stop him and buy time for you." Zeo grabbed her hand. "Once the rest of The Hunters arrive, all our hopes will be gone. Please Rem . . . " He gripped her hand tightly. "Please leave . . . save yourself, live the life you''ve always wanted."


    A tear trailed down Remnya''s cheek. She squeezed her eyes shut, feeling how her heart shattered, and its shards ripped her chest. As much as Remnya wanted to stay and fight by his side, she knew it was a lost battle. Her body was too weak; Remnya could barely stand on her own.


    "It''s me who they want," she whispered, wiping her tears with the back of her hand. "This has nothing to do with you, Zeo."


    "Rem!" Zeo yelled, glaring at her, but before he could finish his sentence, a shrill clank resounded in their heads.


    BOOM!


    Edo''s chain snapped the rock behind them in half.


    Both cut pieces collapsed, shaking the ground as they collapsed in front of them, lifting sand and dry leaves into the air.


    The whistle of that chain drew near again, and the metal approached Zeo at the speed of sound.


    His vectors rose like two ghostly arms in front of them and burst against the metal, releasing a powerful shockwave that stopped the chain and sent both of them to the ground.


    Retracting his chain, Edo emerged like a demon from the shadows of dead trunks. Zeo''s eyes glowed as he commanded his vectors toward his enemy. Whistling, his arms darted at Edo''s head, who stood still with a surprised expression.


    Swinging his chain, Edo countered his vectors. The coils wrapped around Zeo''s spectral arms, stopping them in front of his face.


    The emerald glow around Zeo''s body intensified, and the veins in his head bulged as if about to explode. His vectors screeched and shook the chain violently, causing Edo to smirk awkwardly.


    Remnya leaned against a tree, aimed the shotgun at the monster''s head, and pulled the trigger.


    The remaining birds in the forest flew away as three bullets exploded against Edo''s face, making him flinch. Zeo broke free from his chain and sent his vectors against his enemy again, trying to slice his body.


    Edo leaped away, tumbling backward with great agility while the vectors buried into the ground. His face smoked from the canon bullets, but it was still intact.


    Before Zeo could react, Edo whipped his chain against him.


    Zeo tried to evade it, but the last two coils struck his right leg. He let out a groan of pain and dropped to the ground.


    Remnya dashed toward her friend to cover him. The chain returned, shrilling through the air, and loomed over her head, but Zeo pushed Remnya aside, receiving the impact for her. The metal landed against his back, sending him against the ground with brutal force, burying his body into the soil.


    "Zeo!" Remnya kneeled next to him, lifting his body. A deep wound crossed his back, releasing a dangerous amount of blood, while his right leg dangled awkwardly, broken. "I''m sorry, but I can''t leave you behind!" She wrapped her arms around him and glared at her enemy, who sauntered toward them with his lifeless eyes locked on her.


    "I was wrong," Edo said, "that crossbreed is not an ordinary specimen as I thought. He might be of use after all."


    "Go to hell!" Remnya roared, covering Zeo''s body with hers. "I don''t give a shit about who or what you are! You''ll have to kill me before I let you hurt Zeo anymore!"


    "I couldn''t expect any less from you, Remnya Scheduna." Edo twisted his lips into an eerie smile. "However, my mission is to bring you with me alive." He whipped the ground with his chain, releasing a shockwave that shook the surface beneath Remnya''s knees.


    Clenching her fists, Remnya dropped her shotgun and locked her dilated pupils on Edo. She raised her arms and allowed the furious monster inside her to take over her body and mind.


    Zeo crawled behind her, wrapping his hand around her waist. He leaned his head against her shoulder and whispered in her ear, "you''re a stubborn one, aren''t you?" His tone was soothing, almost calm.


    "We''re on this together." She smiled as her heart beat faster, and her tears dried up against the hot breeze emanating from her crimson aura. "My body might have reached its limit, but my soul is willing to fight until the end."


    "This is why I love you," Zeo said, standing up and pulling Remnya with him. They both rose in front of their last enemy.


    Remnya glanced over her shoulder at him and gifted him a tender smile.


    Like a volcano refusing to die, fierce heat filled her insides, magma running through her veins, burning her heart with despair and hope. The pain had disappeared, and all her dreams merged into the crimson dragon crawling in her chest.


    Zeo whispered something in her ear and kissed her cheek, and the shrill of her fire filled the morning, engulfing everything around them, embracing them with all its power.


    A crimson ghost loomed over the forest. Bones made of magma, hollow eyes flooded with fury, and a monstrous wail resembling a banshee that could freeze the blood and melt the skin of every living thing.


    The Crimson Ghost wouldn''t abandon the soul of a young girl who promised to do great things.


    Once and for all, Remnya would fulfill her fate.


    <figure>


    </figure>

 45: Our Dreams

    Remnya


    The crimson ghost loomed over the forest, devouring everything in its path with vicious bites, turning beauty into ashes and darkness into light. Remnya felt her body vanishing into the blaze; it wasn''t part of her anymore; she had become fire itself, burning with immense fury.


    Yet, she could still feel Zeo''s heart beating next to her, fueling her unbreakable will.


    If Zeo lived, she would depart with a smile.


    Edo''s silhouette faded before her eyes, but his grim aura lingered in her consciousness. Remnya had to destroy it, even if it meant her own demise.


    Unable to restrain that monster in her weakened body any longer, Remnya allowed all her nightmares and dreams to clash into oblivion, the birth of a demonic entity, wailing with the sorrow of thousands of banshees.


    Her crimson fire would decide her fate, and she was at peace with it. Deaf and blind, her body faded into the flames.


    "I''m sorry, Zeo," she whispered, her words vanishing into the unknown.


    As the blast reached its target, the earth shattered beneath her feet, and the lament of all her demons finally fell still.


    A tempest silenced her nightmares.


    Remnya closed her eyes and felt how a river of magma carried her away toward her last destiny. If that were her fate, she would happily accept it. No more darkness. Only an intense light awaiting her arrival.


    Peace at last.


    A beautiful maiden sauntered among the flames. Her eyes were as crimson as her own, and her hair as dark as the night of her mind.


    So warm, yet so distant. So familiar, yet so unknown.


    The maiden spoke, her pale lips hiding a bittersweet smile.


    "It''s not your time yet, my little girl."


    Her voice reached deep into her soul, and tears flowed mercilessly from her blind eyes. Remnya knew that voice very well. She had heard it too many times in her dreams.


    The beautiful woman from her dreams. The one who had loved her with all her soul until the end.


    "Is this you . . . Mom?"


    . . .


    "It''s not your time yet, my dear baby."


    . . .


    Between sobs, Remnya gathered the strength to ask the only thing she had always wanted to know.


    Why had she abandoned her in that world?


    But those words never left her mouth.


    Deep within, Remnya knew the answer.


    . . .


    The maiden looked at her and gifted her a last smile, reassuring her heart with a beam of hope before fading among the crimson flames of her soul.


    An everlasting memory that would accompany her until the end.


    Her words echoed in her mind.


    It''s not your time yet, my dear baby.


    . . .


    Silence.


    . . .


    "REM!"


    Remnya recognized Zeo''s voice among the cries of her soul, and the overwhelming heat engulfed her body again, triggering all her senses with the euphoria of life.


    Remnya shrieked as she fought the dreadful reaper, inviting her with its gelid hands into the cold nothingness. But it wasn''t her time yet.


    Mom had said so.


    "REM!"


    "ZEO?" Remnya screamed desperately, fearing her words would fade into the darkness.


    "Do you remember the last time you protected me?"


    Silence.


    "Why are you asking me that now, of all times?"


    "When you found me in the backyard and fought Liam and his friends alone for me."


    "What about that?"


    He chuckled. "I never got the chance to thank you properly for it."


    . . .


    When Remnya opened her eyes, she witnessed how beauty had turned into embers and fires spread across what once was a forest full of life. The earth glowed orange like the crater of a volcano, and the hot air waved on the horizon, distorting reality.


    In front of her stood Zeo, like an imposing knight.


    Beyond them, Edo''s body was engulfed in blue flames, shielding himself from her crimson ghost, slowly fading away along with all her energy.


    "That was quite impressive, Remnya Scheduna," Edo said, his voice sending chills down her spine. He was unharmed, holding back her crimson blaze with the sole strength of his left arm while blue flames covered his right arm.


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    "When they told us our target was a fire manipulator, I volunteered myself for the task." Edo swung his arm against Remnya''s fire, causing a massive explosion that shattered the ground around them and tore apart the crimson ghost looming over him.


    A short wail and her ultimate attack burst into millions of sparks, embers, and smoke, falling over them like a crimson rain, turning everything into hell.


    No, no, no, NO, NO, NO.


    Her heart screamed in her chest, refusing to accept what she saw. Remnya had already given her all, and it hadn''t been enough.


    Drained of energy, Remnya dropped to the ground, tears stinging her eyes. She punched the soil with a weakened, bruised fist while fury burned and mangled her insides.


    I failed.


    Remnya lifted her face to stare at Zeo and ask for forgiveness, but she noticed her friend using his vectors to hold back Edo''s blue fire as it tried to break through the green shield protecting them.


    "Your friend isn''t any less impressive, I''ve got to admit." Edo snickered and turned his fist into a ball of fire and then charged at Zeo at the speed of sound, leaving a trail of blue hell behind.


    Before Remnya could process the events unfolding around her, Edo punched through Zeo''s shield and crushed his jaw, sending him flying like a doll against the burning ground.


    The shield shattered like a crystal dome, emerald droplets evaporating into the hot air.


    "Zeo!" Remnya tried to run to him, but Edo was already over her and caught her arm.


    "Although impressive, your crimson fire is still at an immature stage. A child''s play." Edo stared down his nose at her, almost disappointed. "However, with proper training, you''ll reach levels beyond your imagination. Come with me, little sister, join us. We Nephilims are your only family in this world, not those pathetic humans or that crossbreed." He glanced at Zeo, who struggled to sit up, his jaw completely broken.


    Remnya snatched her arm free from his grasp and glared at him. "Screw you! You''re nothing to me but a disgusting monster!" She clenched her fist and tried to punch him, but Edo blocked it, grabbing her wrist with brutal force.


    He yanked her against him and shoved his face into hers. "It''ll take time, but sooner or later, you''ll understand you belong with us, the true rulers of this planet." He twisted her arm behind her back, almost breaking her elbow. Remnya clenched her teeth, holding back a groan of pain, and shook his body with all her remaining strength. Edo lifted his eyebrows and nodded in approval. "I see you still have some energy. I''m glad I broke through your attack. Otherwise, the amount of energy you used would have killed you."


    "I don''t care about what you say!" Remnya roared through clenched teeth. "I''ll never join a disgusting bunch of monsters who prey on the innocent!" Remnya whirled, kicking Edo on his knees twice. "NEVER!" She elbowed him with his free arm and tried to headbutt him.


    Edo twisted his lips into a gloomy scowl and jerked her arm sideways until her bones cracked.


    An electric pain filled her right arm, paralyzing all her senses. He released her, and Remnya fell to the ground, burying her teeth into her lips to hold back a scream filled with pain and hatred.


    "I apologize, but being a Nephilim, your bones will heal quickly." Edo sighed. "I didn''t want to do this, but you left me no choice¡ª"


    A fiery explosion detonated over Remnya, shaking the land beneath her knees, and emerald lightning flashed before her eyes, engulfing Edo''s face and forcing him to stagger away from her.


    Before Edo could react, one of Zeo''s vectors grabbed him by the neck while the other snatched his face, trying to break through his eyeballs.


    Groaning like an enraged beast, Zeo charged at Edo and pushed him away from Remnya with the brute force of his vectors, burying his enemy against the incandescent earth.


    Zeo dashed toward Remnya and stood between her and the monster. He roared with the fury of a lion, "DON''T EVER TOUCH HER AGAIN!"


    The veins on his forehead bulged, and blood rolled down his face and arms in streams of crimson, dripping onto the soil.


    Remnya tried to stand and join her friend, but her legs could barely hold her body. She stumbled twice before being able to limp to his side.


    "Rem, this is our last chance. GO AWAY NOW!" Zeo bellowed, despair clouding the anger in his voice.


    "Zeo¡ª"


    "If you don''t leave now, he''ll catch us both, and a new hell will begin for you and me!" His words cut Remnya''s flesh like a sharp razor, burying deep into her soul. "You''re the only one who can change our fate, and that''s it, abandoning this place and hiding from them." Zeo''s voice trembled as he fought the pain filling his body, destroying his veins with the immense force of his vectors. His veins began popping, bursting blood over his face. "Go away, Rem . . . It''s now or never!"


    Edo roared and cursed, fighting Zeo''s vectors. Those ghastly arms buzzed like millions of furious hornets as they pushed Edo''s head against the earth, trying to destroy it.


    How long could Zeo resist?


    Remnya clenched her teeth and battled the tears burning her eyes, falling incessantly on the burnt soil. "Don''t tell me that, dumbass . . . We need to stay together." She tried to walk closer, but Zeo''s emerald aura pushed her away like a punch to the face. She stumbled and fell heavily over a mountain of ashes.


    With her eyes locked on Zeo and shaking, Remnya released a painful, desperate scream, "WE NEED TO STAY TOGETHER!"


    Zeo turned to look at her, his pupils glistening and flickering with sparks and tears. "We will, Rem," he murmured, "that''s why I''m doing this. It''s the only way for us to escape this hell." The glow in his eyes made her shiver; they connected with her very soul, assuring her he meant every one of his words. "You know what you have to do now."


    Remnya understood.


    She finally understood.


    All her dreams with Zeo shattered.


    In the end, it wasn''t meant to be. They couldn''t be happy together; she had always known it, yet refused to accept it, hoping fate would smile upon them one day.


    No.


    Remnya would have given her life for him, and Zeo knew it.


    Her legs trembled as she stood up, tears rolling down her cheeks and his broken arm sending excruciating pain throughout her body.


    "I won''t die, Rem. They need me." Zeo smiled at her for the last time. "We will meet again, I promise."


    "You never broke a promise . . . " Remnya murmured through a closed throat, "you never did . . . " Her heart cried in her chest, and the world slowly fell apart before her crimson eyes.


    "It''s a promise," Zeo''s voice began to fade away as the glow of his vectors and eyes strengthened. The earth beneath Edo cracked with the immense power Zeo was using.


    "It''s a promise."


    Remnya swallowed and stood still, her heart kicking viciously in her chest, trying to break through her ribs, and a new resolution burning in her soul. Tears blurred her vision as she contemplated her friend for the last time.


    The boy who had turned into a warrior, the boy who had given her a reason to believe in dreams and fight for them, the boy who had taught her how to be a human.


    The boy she had always loved.


    Remnya could not fail him. They had fought so much together to be happy; it couldn''t be the end.


    It wouldn''t be the end.


    He was her reason to live and fight. They both would survive.


    "I''ll see you soon, Rem," Zeo told her and beamed at her for the last time, his face as beautiful as the aura surrounding his imposing figure.


    "I''ll see you soon, Zeo," Remnya whispered between sobs, clenched her teeth, and forced herself to look away.


    Finally, she left his side.


    A powerful shockwave pushed her away as Zeo released all his hidden powers against Edo, covering the sky with an emerald blaze. Lightning spread across the burnt forest, destroying everything in its path, yet ignoring Remnya as she ran toward her fate, far from him.


    Refusing to fall, Remnya ran away. She ran as she had never done it before. Remnya ran for him and his dreams.


    Remnya never looked behind. All her remaining energy filled her chest and weak legs, giving her the power and will to escape hell once and for all.


    Zeo''s sacrifice wouldn''t be in vain; she deemed that her mission. Remnya would change the fate of many, and they would meet again.


    Once and for all, the girl with the crimson eyes would fulfill her fate.


    *¡ã*¡ã*


    <figure>


    </figure>

 46: The Path To Oblivion

    Remnya


    East.


    Run east, and don''t stop.


    Those words resounded in Remnya''s head, hammering her brain as she sprinted through the forest ruins. Her shoes had melted under the intense heat, and her bare skin scraped against the sharp edge of rocks and burnt thorns and vines, closing the path ahead.


    As her lungs fought for oxygen, her stride weakened until Remnya couldn''t feel her legs anymore. However, they kept moving on their own, fueled by the fire burning in her chest.


    The flames surrounding her faded, and the green of life slowly grew beneath her feet. Even the song of birds echoed louder with each step.


    Immense canopies rose in the distance, covering the morning sun behind an emerald sky, darkening everything ahead of her under eternal shadows. The humid air lingering in the forest appeased the hell in her lungs, and her wild heart slowed down.


    How long had she been running for?


    Her body began to shut down, and her vision blurred, turning her surroundings into an unknown land of life and death. The loud symphony of birds ringing in her ears was the only thing keeping her awake and moving forward; the sound of life.


    Having lost all her senses, Remnya collapsed against a mountain of dried leaves and rocks, opening wounds in her knees and elbows as she tried to avoid slamming her face against a net of thorns. Burying her face into the moist soil, she groaned in pain and frustration. She wanted to keep going, but her body didn''t respond anymore.


    Remnya tried several times, dragging herself over the ground with her only usable arm, but exhaustion forced her to stop. Rolling over moist dry leaves, Remnya lay down on her back and stared vacantly into the sky, covered by thick canopies intertwined in a web of life. Weak sunbeams reached her face, and an odd feeling of peace filled her body.


    Reality began to fade.


    And the melody of those beautiful birds watching over her assured her it was safe to rest.


    Everything turned into darkness.


    But the precious glow of his eyes flashed in her dreams. Remnya had made him a promise; she would never break her word. She would never fail him.


    Run east, run east.


    Run east, and don''t stop.


    The break was short; the intense heat in her heart didn''t allow her to relax anymore. Her eyes opened, full of tears.


    Something tickled her broken arm.


    As Remnya turned to her side, she saw a squirrel standing by her side, observing her while its nose inspected her strange smell. Unconsciously, Remnya smiled. Perhaps seeing life among so much death reminded her there was still hope.


    Having recovered some energy, Remnya sat up, causing the squirrel to flee from her. and scrutinized her surroundings. An endless maze of giant trunks faded in the distance. Squeezing the ground, she noticed a mattress of dry leaves of all tones of green and red beneath her.


    Next to a trunk, a family of blue mushrooms shined brightly under sun sparks.


    Remnya remembered Zeo''s nerdy talks about the forest. Red meant edible, green poisonous, violet deadly, and any other color unknown. She needed energy as soon as possible, and there were no fruits in sight.


    Her next option was hunting. Remnya stared up at the squirrel, observing her atop a mossy rock. Clearly, that animal had never seen a human, and its curiosity turned it into easy prey. It wouldn''t be hard for Remnya to lure it toward her with some patience. And then, she could snap its neck and cook it.


    No.


    Remnya twisted her lips. As hungry as she was, she could not kill an innocent animal. Her gaze returned to the mushrooms. If the food from the orphanage hadn''t killed her by then, neither would such innocent-looking things, she thought.


    Remnya fell twice before she could stagger toward the blue fungi. Up close, they looked grosser, with white and green spots and sticky slime dripping from their caps.


    Overthinking would make her dumb resolve waver. Remnya yanked a mushroom from its family, held her breath, and took an angry bite.


    A salty flavor invaded her mouth and nose, reminding her of the ancient mold growing in the orphanage mixed with mud. The blue delicacy dissolved in her mouth like a mix of sticky flour and sand. She did her best not to taste it and swallowed the goo filling her mouth.


    Throwing up was tempting, but her body needed energy. The subsequent bites tasted better until the mushroom family disappeared.


    "I''m a Nephilim. A mushroom can''t kill me," Remnya murmured, wiping the juices dripping from the side of her mouth. The flavor would stay with her for a long time.


    Remnya sat on the mossy rock and observed the animals surrounding her while she waited for the mushrooms to show their effect on her body.


    Her stomach grumbled for the next twenty minutes, and mild pain and nausea made her clench her teeth. But that was it. Whether because she was a Nephilim or because she was lucky, the mushrooms didn''t harm her.


    It was time to continue.


    Tearing her long pants, Remnya crafted a sling-like device to hold her broken arm, stopping it from dangling around and torturing her with electric pain. Finally, she stood tall ready to continue her journey.


    Remnya looked at the squirrel, who had climbed down the rock, and observed her from the ground. She smiled and waved at it before taking the first step toward her destiny, resuming her journey through an unknown land.


    *¡ã*¡ã*


    Zeo


    The forest trembled as emerald lightning spread across the sky, striking the ashes of oblivion. Zeo released all the fury he had restrained in his heart and soul, unleashing all his dreams and nightmares into a tempest that wrecked the remnants of life.


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    His spectral arms turned into beams of green plasma, hissing and glowing with electric arcs swirling around them. All his power was released into Edo, who struggled to hold the vectors drilling into his face. Time was meaningless. Zeo knew he had to stop him for as long as his body resisted; Remnya needed enough time to escape hell.


    The veins in his body began to explode into bursts of blood, and his energy drained rapidly. The power of his vectors weakened.


    Regardless of the love and hatred filling his heart, his body had reached its limit. Zeo let out a last roar, his voice echoing throughout the forest, and then his muscles paralyzed and cramped, forcing him to collapse on his knees.


    Edo bellowed with fury and finally broke through the vectors, shattering them into a rain of emerald crystals.


    Zeo''s heart stopped for a moment, and his body stiffened, threatening to shut down. The emerald aura surrounding him faded, and his brain disconnected from his limbs. Reality lost its meaning.


    Groaning and cursing, Edo stood up, blood rolling down his cheeks. His right eye was closed, and a red stream erupted from his eye socket. There was death in his grim face, but Zeo didn''t care anymore. He had stopped that damned beast.


    He had fulfilled his mission.


    Edo touched his right eye with his fingertips and lifted his eyelid. Blood filled his empty eyesocket, erupting in a stream of crimson, staining his face and clothes.


    Blue fire engulfed his fingers, and in a quick thrust of his hand, he buried his fingers into his eye sockets. Unfazed, he burned the remnants of his eyeball with his flames. The blood stopped, and his scowl turned into a stiff smile.


    Edo chuckled, locking his remaining eye on Zeo. "I need to congratulate you, crossbreed," he said, his voice soothing and calm, "You''ve proved yourself worth keeping as a pet."


    Zeo returned an unbreakable gaze, his heart beating peacefully in his chest. He had already accepted his fate. Remnya was safe. That''s all it mattered.


    Zeo''s body trembled out of air and energy, threatening to collapse, yet he never lowered his head.


    Edo sauntered toward him, cracking his neck and wiping the blood from his face. "I never thought a crossbreed like you would be able to damage my body like this." Anger filled his words as he smirked wickedly. "Unforgivable."


    Edo halted, looming over Zeo like death itself. Using his remaining strength, Zeo lifted his eyes, staring into the face of his executioner. Bloodlust filled his remaining red iris, flickering with the flames in the distance.


    "Do whatever you want with me," Zeo whispered with the last breath of his lungs and closed his eyes, collapsing above Edo''s feet.


    A powerful kick to the face awakened Zeo''s senses as his body flew against a rock. However, no pain reached his nerves. All he felt was his bones cracking as Edo jumped over him and crushed his head with vicious punches.


    Remnya''s face flashed before him. Like ecstasy, she took the pain away. Zeo managed to smile while blood filled his mouth, and his jaw bones cracked like glass.


    Holding Zeo by the hair, Edo lifted his face and twirled a knife between his fingers. Through a red blurred vision, Zeo glimpsed the gleam of metal aimed at his left eye. Thinking of Rem, Zeo took a deep breath and waited for that monster to finish what he had started.


    Silence lingered, followed by a gush of hot wind.


    . . .


    A high-pitched cackle made the forest shiver.


    "That''s enough," an unknown voice resounded in Zeo''s ears.


    Edo became petrified and dropped his knife.


    A lanky man emerged among the flames, followed by a trail of fire glued to his clothes. As he snapped his fingers, the fire vanished, revealing his uniform, which resembled Edo''s, with the same emblem sparkling on his shoulder. His horns and tail revealed his Nephilim nature. However, his aura was different; whereas Edo''s emanated a grim presence, this one emanated rotten energy.


    "Captain Leuko!" Edo shouted, turning his face toward the unknown man and bowed while the rest of his body remained frozen on the ground.


    "When they told us Ronner, and the Doman''s brothers were hiding a Nephilim and an Anglish, I couldn''t believe it." The man scrutinized Edo from head to toe, and then his gaze landed on Zeo, making him shiver under his venenous violet eyes. "It seems you gave Edo a hard time, young Anglish." He smirked.


    The captain licked his lips and nodded to himself. "I''ve heard your kind has the ability to regenerate your bodies. I''m anxious to test if that''s true." He lifted his right fist and opened his hand. A violet flame burst in his palm and engulfed his fingers.


    Zeo widened his eyes, blinking to wipe the blood blinding him.


    "You told me you could handle two children." Leuko''s gaze shot daggers of contempt at Edo. "Now, I honestly believe you were just too afraid to face Ronner." His smile fell apart, giving way to a scowl. "Unfortunately, that bastard was already dead when I got there."


    "Ronner is dead?" Zeo murmured as his heart halted in his chest.


    Leuko lifted one eyebrow and smirked at Zeo. "Yeah," he replied. "Such a pity, though. I wanted to end that crossbreed with my own hands." The man clenched his fists, and his fire grew and danced wildly, shooting sparks and smoke.


    Zeo bit his lower lip and narrowed his eyes, feeling the pain traveling throughout the broken bones of his face. He gulped while a heat filled his insides, mixed with unknown feelings of hatred and melancholy.


    Ronner, the last wall separating Remnya from The Hunters, had fallen.


    Leuko sauntered over in their direction, fiddling with his fire. "Oh, by the way, I found your bitch, Alayna." He told Edo and giggled. "That useless crossbreed was unconscious . . . What a failure! But worry not, she''s still alive."


    Fueled by fury, Zeo spat the bitter words he had been holding inside, "Alayna and her army were your puppets, weren''t they?"


    "Puppets? That''s a strong word." He beamed at Zeo, putting out the fire in his hand. "She was our pet. A pet who did as I said, and despite being an inferior creature, she fulfilled my commands."


    "A pet . . . " Zeo buried his fingernails into his thighs. "You knew she couldn''t defeat Ronner."


    "It was unlikely. However, Ronner was wounded, she had good chances, yet she failed." He brushed his thick jet-black hair backward and smirked smugly. "She''ll be downgraded to slave now and sold to the best bidder."


    Edo flinched.


    "That''s what your kind is best at." Ignoring the pain, Zeo shook his head and smiled bitterly. "Treating people like tools to achieve your sick goals."


    "We, Nephilims, are at the top of the food chain," Leuko replied coldly and scanned Zeo with amusement as he strutted toward his ally. "EDO," Leuko roared, and Edo, who had remained like a statue on his spot, sprang from the ground, facing his captain.


    "Sir!" Edo shouted, standing straight with both arms glued to his sides.


    The captain stood before Edo and scanned his body from head to toe. Contempt and disgust filled his bony face as he spotted his wounds. "How is it possible that two kids did this to you?"


    "It was my mistake, sir. I let my guard down. I underestimated the crossbreed." Edo''s words came out like daggers, with no hesitation.


    The captain chuckled and tilted his head. "Where''s the Nephilim girl?"


    "She''s escaped," he confessed bluntly.


    Leuko''s lips twitched. "And why did you choose to beat up this fucking kid instead of going after her?" He leaned closer, his nose touching Edo''s chin.


    "I . . . " Edo''s voice trembled.


    "Give me your hand," Leuko''s high-pitched tone turned into a gelid, deep whisper that froze Zeo''s blood.


    Edo lifted his left hand, and Leuko took it between his.


    "Verkum Zakrav." Leuko''s eyes glowed violet as he squeezed Edo''s fingers.


    A loud crack.


    In a quick movement, Leuko yanked Edo''s fingers, tearing them off his hand.


    A spurt of blood shot from his severed knuckles, but Edo remained expressionless.


    "Open your mouth," Leuko ordered, and Edo did as he said. The captain shoved the severed fingers into Edo''s mouth. "Eat them." His voice was ice.


    Edo nodded and proceeded to chew his fingers. Several cracks resounded across the forest, blood dripped between his teeth and lips, and bone splinters scattered the ground.


    A wicked grin spread across Leuko''s face. "The next time, I''ll chop off your hand and, if I feel like it, perhaps your whole arm. Do you get it?"


    Edo nodded.


    "If you keep making stupid mistakes, your body will only be remnants of flesh, guts, and bones." The captain yanked Edo by the collar of his uniform and pushed him toward Zeo violently. "Now, stupid cunt. Your next mission will be to take care of this Anglish. You will heal him, wash him, dress him up. And you''re not gonna touch him until I say otherwise. Bretzava?"


    "Bretzavi," Edo shouted, chewing the remainings of his fingers in his mouth.


    "I''ll find the Nephilim myself. I can still feel her presence. She''s not too far away." Leuko cracked his knuckles and glared at Edo. "You return to Crysalton and inform the crew. Tell them I''ll be back by night with our sister under my arm."


    Edo rushed to Zeo''s side and leaned over him. Zeo grimaced at his presence, but he had no more energy to fight. Edo took him between his arms and picked him up.


    "Now, go!" Leuko bellowed, and Edo darted away from him like a scared animal, carrying Zeo on his shoulder until they got lost in the ashes of the forest.


    The next thing Zeo knew was that he was begging in his nightmares for Rem to make it while tears streamed like a river down his cheeks.


    Finally, like the mercy of God, his mind vanished into hell.


    *¡ã*¡ã*

 47: Those Sunset Eyes

    Remnya


    The dense canopies of ancient trees had kept the forest in the shadows for hundreds of years, endless passages of unexplored land that faded on the horizon in a gradient of emerald greens. Only the tender sunlight seeping through dancing leaves guided Remnya, who advanced like a wandering soul. Her feet were numb, and her lungs struggled for oxygen, but the pain in her arm kept her awake within her senses.


    Despite the tears, Remnya found herself smiling at times, amazed by the beauty of birds, squirrels, and snakes inhabiting that mysterious place. Exotic flowers adorned her path, tickling her nose with strange aromas that reminded her of a home she never had. As Remnya passed by a massive bush of wild black roses, the image of Magenta popped into her mind, and with her, Marcus''.


    Her legs hesitated for a moment, and tears threatened her eyes again. The hopes of so many people rested on her shoulders, the alive and the dead.


    She could not fail.


    By sunset, the intertwined foliage above her opened, and Remnya could finally glimpse the orange glow of the horizon and the evening star rising with its golden glimmer. Feeling her body on the verge of collapsing, Remnya decided to sit next to a giant rotten trunk, half-buried into the ground. Cobwebs entangled in her hair as she dropped on the moist soil, and spiders crawled on her arms and legs. She didn''t mind; the orphanage''s spiders were much bigger.


    As the night neared, the first stars appeared, flickering among isolated clouds that still reflected the dying sunlight. Remnya took a deep breath, filling her lungs with the fresh air rising across the forest.


    Beyond a maze of trees, Remnya noticed a strange glow. She blinked, making sure it wasn''t a dream. But as the illusion persisted, she crawled toward a slope to have a closer look.


    Her eyes widened at the glimpse of hope. Ahead of her, a massive valley spread amid endless lands, and the lights of a distant city tilted like millions of fireflies.


    "I made it," Remnya murmured with trembling lips and fell to the ground with a smile on her face and tears in her eyes.


    At last, an oasis in her desolation.


    The flame in her chest burned hotter and brighter, fueled by her newfound hope, filling her exhausted body with the energy to keep fighting.


    Ignoring the open wounds and pain burning her legs, Remnya stood again, aided by the dead branches of a nearby trunk. If she walked all night, she could reach the city by morning, and the chances of saving Zeo would increase.


    He was all that mattered.


    Remnya limped through the darkness, guided by the distant radiance of a better future ahead of her. The night closed, and stars covered the sky while a symphony of crickets and owls filled her ears, keeping her awake while exhaustion threatened to send her to the ground.


    Like a sleepwalker, Remnya floated through the unknown, numb, blind, and almost lifeless. She advanced until reality faded, and her body collapsed beside a creek.


    "Wait for me, Zeo . . . " she whispered, biting the soil and leaves under her face. "I''ll save you . . . "


    Silence.


    Minutes or perhaps hours passed for her.


    When Remnya woke up, the soothing sound of water running next to her assured her she was still alive. Dragging herself toward the creek, Remnya buried her face in the cold water. She drank what seemed to be the best drink she had ever had in her life. The coldness filled her insides, washing out the desert of her throat.


    Having hydrated herself, Remnya lay down on her back and stared into the night sky. The stars reminded her of those empty nights in the orphanage when she would sneak out of her room to sight shooting stars with Zeo. Remnya wished she had paid more attention to him instead of falling asleep as he spoke about the space.


    Tears welled up in her eyes, but she shook her head and bit her lips. There was no time to cry anymore.


    A gust of wind pulled her bangs over her moist eyes.


    "I''m glad you''re still alive."


    Remnya realized the fatigue was making her hear voices, so she decided to rest for a few minutes before resuming her journey. She closed her eyes, allowing nostalgia to fill her dreams.


    "Don''t worry. We''ll take care of you from now on."


    This time, the voice was closer.


    Her heart hastened, and a cold shiver traveled throughout her spine. Of course, it had to be her imagination, and her brain tried to calm her.


    "You got nothing to fear, little sister. You''re safe now." A high-pitched voice echoed in her head, freezing her blood.


    Remnya sprang from the ground, sitting up to scan her surroundings while dizziness drilled her head.


    The darkness returned only silence mixed with a tender breeze.


    Sparks shot from a corner in the forest, and a violet flame reflected on the water. Like a small sun in the night, Remnya was able to see everything clearly. Her nightmares have followed her all the way down there.


    Violet eyes gleaming under the flickering flame paralyzed her body, and her lips trembled as she murmured a futile question, "Who are you?"


    A slender man sauntered in her direction like a specter from hell glowing in a ghostly light. "Allow me to introduce myself. My name is Leuko," he said, smiling, and pulled his coat aside, revealing his Nephilim tail.


    Remnya scanned his body from head to toe, noticing the horns sticking out of his head. A profound turmoil filled her chest.


    "Why that face?" Leuko asked, pouting as he stood in front of her. "I''m not here to hurt you, young sister. My subordinate exceeded himself with you, but worry not. He will get what he deserves." He beamed at her, her fangs sparkling under the flame. "I''ll chop off his right arm for you. What do you think about that?"


    Swallowing through a closed throat, Remnya gathered the strength to speak, "Is Zeo alive?"


    The time stopped as she craved an answer.


    "Your friend is okay." Leuko stretched his hand at her, inviting her to get up. "I''m sure you''re eager to see him, right? Come with me. I''ll allow you two to be together again."


    His words almost calmed the war unleashed in her heart, but something about him made her shiver in terror. It was the smell of death.


    Unauthorized duplication: this narrative has been taken without consent. Report sightings.


    Remnya shook her head eagerly and dragged herself away from him.


    Leuko chuckled. "You know, we are both so much alike. I was born with the ability to control fire too. However, mine is nowhere as lethal as yours, my young sister." He shot a stream of flames at a dead trunk nearby, setting it on fire and illuminating the whole place with an intense glow.


    Remnya trembled, her eyes fixated on the wrinkles crossing Leuko''s face, which drew an eerie smirk.


    "I can''t blame you for not trusting us," he admitted, sitting on the ground in front of her. "Ronner put you through so much pain." He sighed and shook his head. "But he''s gone for good now. You got nothing else to fear."


    "What do you mean?" Remnya asked, widening her eyes while her heart stopped.


    "You didn''t know, did you?" His smile fell apart. "Ronner is dead."


    "Dead?" A void filled Remnya''s chest, and her heart fell to the bottom of her stomach.


    "Yeah . . . I truly wanted to kill him with my own hands for what he did to you." Leuko let out a deep sigh.


    Brisa . . .


    Remnya clenched her fists, holding back tears. "How did he die?" she asked.


    The man tilted his head, surprised by her reaction. "Well, it seems like he died protecting someone." He shrugged. "That''s the only logical answer because he left a feast of corpses behind."


    Remnya buried her fingernail into her palms. "Was he alone?"


    "No." Leuko fiddled with a small flame dancing between his fingers. "My pet Alayna was still with him, though unconscious. I still don''t know who killed him, but it was certainly not her." He giggled. "Why are you so worried about it, young sister? Did you like Ronner, or perhaps . . . " He twisted his lips into a smirk, "there''s someone else you''re worried about?"


    "No." Remnya glared at him.


    Leuko grinned and stood up, looming over her. "Don''t worry anymore. I don''t care about anyone else but you. You''re our kind, blood of our blood."


    Remnya saw through the facade of his wicked smile. Having spent so much time with Ronner, she could read the intentions of a monster.


    "It''s time to go, young sister." He stretched his hand at her, his long fingers twisting awkwardly. "I''ll help you walk, although it''d be better if I carried you. You''ll receive the best treatment a Nephilim can get."


    Remnya lowered her head and smiled bitterly. "Is it better than any treatment for humans, right?" she asked between clenched teeth.


    "Of course!" Leuko exclaimed, his voice echoing throughout the forest. His eyes flickered with a hint of contempt. "Do you think we, Nephilims, deserve the same treatment as those inferior beings?"


    Silence.


    Remnya clenched her fists and lifted her face to look into his eyes. "You''re right. Humans have only caused me pain and suffering." Her smile turned into a scowl, and her pupils glowed crimson.


    Leuko nodded eagerly at her words. "You''ll be able to choose the humans you want dead, and we''ll hunt them down. Did you know about human farms?"


    A profound repulsion filled Remnya''s chest, and hatred tried to escape her mouth, but she forced a sweet voice. "No, I didn''t know about that, but it sounds great." Remnya grabbed his hand.


    Leuko guffawed, his high-pitched voice resounding throughout the forest. "Oh, my young sister, we''ll have so much fun together." He pulled her off the ground and helped her to stand up.


    "I think I''ll be able to walk," Remnya murmured, adjusting the sling around her broken arm. She slid her hand into it, brushing the interior with her fingertips.


    "By the way, Remnya." He beamed at her. "Did you really think I''d believe anything you said?" He lifted his right arm and tightened her hand into a fist, ready to strike her.


    Remnya snatched the small gun hidden in her arm sling.


    Before Leuko could touch her, she pulled the trigger, shooting him in the legs and stomach with all its rounds.


    Letting out a groan of anger, Leuko stepped away, and then the canon bullets blew out on his body.


    The explosion''s shockwave sent Remnya to the ground, but she used her sane arm like a spring to push herself back onto her feet. She jumped over the creek and dashed through the forest as fast as possible while the remaining rounds exploded on Leuko.


    Her heart echoed in her chest, kicking furiously as it pumped adrenaline throughout her body. An eerie silence filled Remnya''s ears, and the darkness consumed the silhouettes in the distance.


    The seconds seemed like hours as she sprinted through rocky terrain, slicing her feet with its sharp edges while the thorns of dry vegetation buried into her skin. Blind, she crashed into trunks and stones but refused to fall.


    When the ground flattened, and stars became visible again, Remnya saw the city lights closer than ever. Jumping over a slope, she descended a hill, avoiding the sharp rocks sticking out like knives.


    Remnya stumbled upon a barricade of dead trunks, probably left by lumberjacks, and fell face-first against the ground, swallowing soil and leaves. Fueled by sheer will, she got up and tried to resume her escape.


    However, her body hit something. A heavy and cold figure loomed over her. Refusing to acknowledge that monster, she tried to run to the other side, but her head slammed into the ground like a heavy stone. The pain took a moment to reach her brain, and she let out a groan of pain.


    Lifting her pupils, Remnya witnessed Leuko squatting next to her. "You''re bold and reckless, I like that," he said, smirking. "Our men are gonna love you."


    Instinctively, Remnya dragged herself away from him like a scared animal, knowing full well she would never make it. Her escape had been the delusion of a stupid kid.


    Resignation crushed her heart, and the image of Zeo flashed before her eyes, now dry from so much pain. Numbness invaded her whole body as she accepted her fate.


    "I''m sorry, Zeo . . . " she murmured, kneeling under the weight of her desolation.


    "We''ll test how fast your body can heal itself," Leuko whispered, leaning over her, his nauseating breath hitting her face. He lifted his foot, and in a violent thrust, he slammed it against her ankle, crushing her bones as if they were glass.


    The crack resounded throughout her body, but unresponsive, she barely felt it.


    "I''m sorry, but I don''t want you to keep running like this." Leuko caressed her trembling face with the back of his cold hand. "They''ll heal quickly, don''t worry."


    Another crack followed, and electric pain filled her legs and hips. Remnya clenched her teeth, but her body was shutting down, and the pain faded along with her will to live.


    "Now it''s time," Leuko said, his high-pitched voice drilling into her brain.


    It was over.


    Forgive me, Zeo. I''ve failed you.


    In the end, Remnya thought death was the best fate for both of them. At least in the afterlife, they would be forever together, like Magenta and Marcus.


    No more pain . . . No more tears . . .


    Remnya wished she could leave the world right there.


    She closed her eyes, feeling how Leuko dragged her numb body through the darkness like a lifeless doll.


    . . .


    The tender breeze of the night stopped.


    And electricity filled the atmosphere around her.


    Remnya squinted, and an orange flash hit her face.


    Sparks flew above her body.


    Was she about to die?


    Leuko''s grin suddenly turned into a scowl, and his calm demeanor displayed a hint of desperation. Violet flames engulfed his arms, the intense heat resembling her own, and the sand beneath her began melting.


    Her captor rushed into the darkness, leaving two streams of fire behind.


    Another flash blinded her, and the next thing she saw was Leuko''s flames dissipating into smoke and embers.


    A loud groan escaped his throat.


    Like a dream, Remnya witnessed through half-closed eyes how multiple spectral arms pierced through Leuko''s body, glowing like a fire from hell. Blood spilled on her face, boiling hot and thick. Leuko tried to attack a silhouette in the darkness, but his legs bent like fragile branches. He kneeled in front of her, and blood flooded his mouth, falling on the ground like a cascade.


    A loud buzz resembling millions of furious wasps deafened her, and Leuko''s eyes exploded into a shower of fire, sparks, and crimson rain. His skin melted, falling apart, revealing his skull, and his jaw separated from the remains of his head.


    His body finally collapsed, and the spectral arms vanished into a glowing orange mist.


    Trembling, Remnya lifted her gaze, and beyond the corpse, a tall figure stood amid the darkness. Unable to discern its face, Remnya glimpsed two orange orbs glowing like two stars in the sunset.


    The figure began walking toward her. Remnya''s heart fought to break free from her chest, but the soothing sound of its feet against dry leaves and sand calmed her down.


    Up close, Remnya could see the figure of a man. In the shadows, his hair seemed to be of an umber color, and behind his messy bangs, two long ears stood out, identical to Zeo''s. His expression was unreadable, and multiple scars covered his cheeks like whiskers.


    Despite his imposing aura, his sunset eyes, resembling those of a furious feline, emanated peace. Remnya felt as if a huge weight had been lifted off her shoulders. He crouched and stretched his hand at her, showing her there was nothing else to fear. In the turmoil of her mind and soul, Remnya found a beam of hope, and her heart felt at peace for once. Her eyes locked on his, full of tears, silently begging him to either end her suffering or save a broken girl.


    He reached for her cheek, caressing her bruised skin with his warm fingertips.


    Was it resignation, or was it her body paralyzed by terror? Remnya didn''t know, but she didn''t fight his touch. She had fought enough.


    Remnya''s eyes flickered, craving an encouraging answer for once in her nightmare.


    He said nothing, but his wordless answer was clear to her.


    Out of strength to keep going, and at the mercy of an unknown destiny, Remnya nodded and closed her eyes.


    "You''re safe now."


    For the first time in her life, Remnya believed those words.


    *¡ã*¡ã*

 48: Shadow Of Angels

    Remnya


    Pale lamp posts covered by moths flashed before Remnya''s eyes as she floated through the cold waters of her dreams. In the distance, a hollow moon followed her journey along with its faint stars. The breeze against her hair and skin reminded her she was still alive, yet she couldn''t tell whether it was real or another illusion.


    As the senses of her body slowly returned, Remnya felt a presence looming over her. Someone carried her in their arms and dragged her toward the unknown. Powerless, a weight oppressed Remnya''s chest as if a massive rock had dropped on her, but numb like a doll, she couldn''t turn her head to discover who owned her fate.


    Silhouettes emerged among the darkness of an empty street, and from behind the shadows, lifeless pupils watched her steps, gloomy stares that vanished into nothingness.


    Remnya managed to discern the broken faces of strangers, lingering in the night like wandering ghosts. As the remnants of society, homeless people were scattered on every corner. A large bunch gathered around an abandoned store, sharing syringes and substances. Others lay still on the sidewalk, alive or dead, she didn''t know, but their eyes begged for mercy.


    Crossing an alley, the faces of a misfit made her shiver. He stood next to a faceless woman and smoked from a pipe. They murmured something, but she couldn''t decipher their words.


    Feeling her soul trying to escape her body, Remnya saw the world spinning around her, but before she could understand her fate, consciousness left her body again.


    Void and silence.


    The reality turned into a dreadful game where her mind was her only enemy, tricking her into truths and lies. Remnya couldn''t differentiate life from death, dreams from nightmares; everything was a puzzle of emotions battling to win over her broken soul.


    Run East and never stop.


    Voices echoed in the distance, but deprived of her senses, Remnya couldn''t understand them. They drilled her brain over and over for minutes, hours, or perhaps days.


    She knew nothing.


    At one point, her heart finally rested, and the shadows from the past gave her a break.


    Run East and never stop.


    In the middle of a void, Remnya opened her eyes.


    Her ears buzzed, and her blurry vision turned into an incandescent white glow burning her pupils. She squinted and blinked several times until her surroundings began to make sense. The first thing she saw was her own body lying on a bed, covered by a green blanket, and an intravenous line injected into her left arm.


    A pungent odor of alcohol filled her nose, making her flinch while the beep of a machine echoed in the back of her head. The next thing she witnessed was the large room around her and the fluorescent lights flickering on a cracked ceiling.


    "I''m glad you''re awake, Rem," a soothing female''s voice said.


    Remnya turned to her right and lifted her eyes to find a pale lady standing by her side. She wore a white doctor''s coat, and thick-rimmed glasses hid her gray eyes. Her pale beige hair touched her shoulders as her lips twisted into a smile.


    No way.


    It cannot be her.


    "Ellyn?" Remnya murmured, her dry lips barely moving.


    The woman said nothing and rushed to her side, wrapping her into a warm embrace. Sobs filled Remnya''s ears and triggered a hurricane of memories in her mind. Even that obnoxious vanilla perfume hadn''t changed at all.


    It was Ellyn.


    Unable to move, Remnya allowed her tears to stream down her cheeks like a torrent of pain and nostalgia.


    "I''m so happy to see you alive, Rem!" Ellyn shouted, sniffling and squeezing her body with her skinny arms. "Please, forgive me!" Her voice turned into a shriek full of sorrow.


    Remnya tried to answer, but words didn''t dare to come out of her trembling lips. She heard ''Sorry'' over and over again until words lost their meaning. An avalanche of emotions choked her with doubts and regrets. At one point, she had blamed herself for Ellyn''s death, yet she was there.


    Something nasty and heavy lifted off her shoulders.


    Ellyn released Remnya and stared deep into her eyes. "I''m sorry for everything. I have no enough words to express how much I''ve regretted each one of my mistakes," Ellyn stuttered as she wiped her tears and nose with a handkerchief. "But whatever I feel doesn''t matter anymore. Right now, I need to know how you''re feeling."


    Remnya had had no time to care about her body; she had forgotten she even existed until that moment. Her senses gradually returned as she tried to figure out whether she was alive or sharing the afterlife with Ellyn. Remnya still remembered the pain from her broken arm and legs, but trying to move them, she realized the pain was gone. Unable to find words, she nodded.


    "I''m so glad," Ellyn said with a trembling voice while a smile spread across her face. "You had been unconscious for weeks. I''ve been praying every day for you to wake up." She adjusted the needle on her arm and gave her a tender look. "I''m sure you must have tons of questions, but it''s better if you rest now."


    Remnya took a moment to scan Ellyn from head to toe. Her usual bored eyes displayed deep sorrow mixed with a hint of hope, her body was skinnier than ever, and scars covered her arms and neck.


    "I thought you were dead," Remnya whispered, lifting her broken arm to touch Ellyn''s hand, which surprisingly didn''t hurt anymore. "I''m sorry too."


    Ellyn shook her head and took her hand tightly between hers while tears trailed down her cheeks. "It was all my fault. I was blinded by money and greed. Everything that happened afterward, I deserved it."


    "No, nobody deserves that." Remnya raised her voice and scowled. "It wasn''t your fault! I would''ve gone through the same either way. They had targeted Zeo and me from the day we were born. I know that."


    "Still . . . " Ellyn averted her eyes and sniffled. "I helped with it, I . . . "


    "I already forgave you for it!" Remnya cut her off and gripped her hand with all her strength. She leaned closer despite the dizziness and pain drilling her head. "Ellyn. Please don''t apologize anymore. Let''s leave the past behind, at least for today."


    Ellyn nodded, hiding her tears, and leaned over to hug her again. Remnya caressed her back, feeling her bones and weak flesh. Despite her mistakes, Remnya concluded she was just another victim in that horrible world. The faces of the monsters who used them as toys for their wicked games flashed in her memory, and anger wanted to erupt from her soul. Yet, she brushed those negative thoughts away.


    "Why are you here, Ellyn?" Remnya asked as her brain tried connecting the dots of her puzzle. "It''s dangerous being around me."


    "I work here," Ellyn replied, sitting on the bed next to Remnya. "He brought you here, and I was more than happy to help you recover." She beamed at her, warming Remnya''s heart which now beat faster.


    "He? Who is he?" Remnya held Ellyn''s hand and stared deep into her eyes.


    Ellyn''s smile turned into a serious look. "I think you should ask him yourself."


    This book was originally published on Royal Road. Check it out there for the real experience.


    The door clicked and opened, allowing a gush of wind into the room.


    . . .


    A tall figure walked in.


    Remnya lifted her gaze to witness an unknown yet familiar face, the same one she had seen in the forest.


    It was him.


    Remnya couldn''t forget those sunset eyes nor the scars covering his cheeks like whiskers. In the light of her room, she saw his Anglish ears clearly and his unreadable expression that emanated such imposing energy that seemed to crush her small body.


    She scowled at him.


    Only the beats of her heart resounded in her head.


    "Why did you help me?" Remnya asked, clenching her fists around the blanket.


    Silence.


    He tilted his head and took an eternal moment to answer. "I saw a defenseless child in danger. I just did what I had to do," he replied, his voice a rasp of tranquility and confidence.


    Remnya glared at him. "I don''t believe you!"


    "Remnya. . ." Ellyn whispered, almost pleading, and shook her head.


    Remnya paid no attention to her; her fire had begun to consume her body. "Too many defenseless children are tortured every day!" She raised her voice, frustration filling her throat. "Why me out of all? Is it because I have horns, isn''t it?"


    Unexpressive, he gazed into her eyes, looking into her soul in search of lies, truths, and perhaps an answer. He crossed his arms and took another long break before replying. "A lot of people wanted to protect you. She''s one of them." He gestured with his chin at Ellyn, who lowered her eyes as if terrified of him. "And that other young woman too."


    Remnya widened her eyes. "Young woman?"


    Silence.


    "Maria," he replied, his voice echoing throughout the silent room and hitting Remnya like a punch.


    "No. . . That can''t be." Her body stiffened as a cold shiver ran down her spine. She scanned that man from head to toe in awe and confusion. "That means you are. . ."


    He nodded and sauntered over to her bed. "Yes, my name is Debrin Kavram." He stood next to Ellyn, towering over them with his sunset eyes locked on Remnya, and stretched his giant hand at her. "It''s nice to meet you, Remnya Scheduna."


    *¡ã*¡ã*


    <figure>


    </figure>


    Zeo


    Metal and concrete walls surrounded the small room where Zeo had spent his last weeks. A plate of food lay on a corner, engulfed by cockroaches and flies. On the opposite side, a dirty rag on the floor worked as his bed. Two tenuous LED lights on the ceiling kept the shadows from consuming the rest of his cage, covered by several layers of mold, dried blood, and rust.


    Silence kept Zeo company in his isolation, only interrupted by the screams of agony echoing in the distance. Sometimes they lasted minutes, sometimes hours, but they always vanished before midnight.


    Despite his reality, Zeo''s heart remained at peace, knowing Remnya would make it.


    That''s all it mattered.


    Since his captors had considered it unnecessary to chain him, he could roam around the room freely. However, Zeo spent most of his days seated in the darkest corner, solely focused on the void of his mind.


    One day, the door opened, and the massive figure of Edo walked in. The beast loomed over him, an eye patch covering half his face and a leather glove hiding his missing fingers. He hadn''t dared to touch him ever since that incident and always avoided eye contact, yet Zeo could feel the fury burning in his veins, ready to end his life at any moment.


    "Get up, we''re leaving," Edo spat, picking up the unfinished food with trembling hands; bloodlust seemed to drip through his skin.


    Not today, Zeo thought, standing up. He''d get to live another day.


    They left the cell and walked through the dungeon corridor. Cobwebs hung from buzzing fluorescent lights that covered the ceiling in a long line that faded into darkness. Doors with big number plates gleamed on each side, caging those who had dared to challenge The Hunters but were deemed valuable enough to live.


    The smell of death lingered around Zeo like a thick mist of rotten flesh and bones, accompanied by faint moans of agony crawling through the cracks of the walls. Rats and cockroaches crossed under their feet as they arrived at the end of the corridor.


    "This way," Edo said, his deep penetrating voice resounding in Zeo''s chest.


    Like a robot, Zeo followed every command without thinking. He knew that shutting down his brain was the best way to survive and keep some sanity in hell.


    They crossed a large courtyard that separated the cells of each dorm. Unlike the mansion, the grass of that place looked lifeless, pale green with hints of dry yellow that crunched under his bare feet. Trees on the verge of falling apart spread along the pathway. The only song of nature around them came from crows and hawks, feeding on bones and rotten flesh left there after an execution.


    Crossbreeds and humans deserved nothing better. That''s what Edo always said.


    The next corridor was not better, but the smell of death was fainter. They walked up to cell number thirty-three, and Edo dialed the code to unlock it.


    As the massive iron door screech made Zeo cringe, a familiar face emerged amid that gloomy room. His heart and blood froze at the sight of his downfall.


    "I believe you know this lady," Edo said, giving him a sidelong glance, a hint of mockery on his face.


    She raised a melancholic gaze at Zeo, and her eyes filled with tears. The sight felt like a punch to the face, but Zeo did his best to keep his emotions inside; displaying weakness would mean his demise.


    Maria?


    They found Maria.


    Clenching his fists and avoiding eye contact with her, Zeo spoke, "I don''t know her."


    Edo stifled a chuckle and tilted his head, staring at him for a moment. "She''s the maid who worked in Ronner''s mansion, isn''t she?" Edo leaned closer to inspect his face. "We know everything, stupid crossbreed. She''s the one who escaped to find Debrin Kavram. Back in the day, one of the Doman''s brothers told us everything about it, along with other interesting details."


    Edo sauntered to Maria, who stood still against the cracked wall, trembling with her eyes locked on Zeo.


    "Did you find him?" Edo asked her.


    Maria swallowed and slowly turned to him. "I didn''t," she murmured.


    Edo shook his head in disappointment. "Lying won''t get you anywhere, little human." He returned to Zeo, towering over him with his gaze piercing his soul. "You can stay here with her. Our captain is a merciful and generous man." Edo leaned on and shoved his face against Zeo''s, hitting his forehead. "He is the only reason you''re still alive, crossbreed."


    Finally, that monster headed back to the door and locked the cell. His boots resounded outside for what felt like hours until they faded into the cold silence. Yet his presence lingered in the room for a long time.


    Zeo stood frozen in one corner of the room, refusing to look at her, fighting the stupid emotions crawling in his insides, trying to break free into a tempest of terror and misery.


    Maria made the first move and took two steps forward, tears trailing down her cheeks. She was a shadow of what Zeo remembered; she wore a dirty T-shirt and old ripped jeans worn out because of time. Her short hair was longer than ever, way past her shoulders.


    "Zeo, it''s okay . . . " she murmured, slowly walking closer. "We did everything we could."


    Zeo gritted his teeth and buried his fingernails into his skin, drawing blood.


    It''s not okay!


    "They know everything about us now. There''s nothing else we can do." She stood in front of him, searching for his eyes. "But know Rem is safe now," she whispered in his ear, "I found him."


    Zeo widened his eyes, finally looking at her. Her soul hadn''t changed; her lavender eyes were still as beautiful as ever.


    "He promised me to help her," she assured him, smiling.


    He didn''t know when or why but driven by an impulse, Zeo wrapped his arms around Maria, pulling her against his chest, embracing her as tightly as he could. She did the same, hugging him as she sobbed uncontrollably.


    "Why didn''t you run away?" Zeo asked, squeezing her malnourished body. He could feel the bones of her spine through her thin skin.


    Silence.


    "Because I made Lady Magenta a promise," Maria whispered, caressing his back. "Debrin offered to protect me, but I still had one more thing to do. I returned to the mansion."


    "WHY?" Zeo shouted, pulling away to stare deep into her teary eyes. "Why did you choose this fate? Why?" His angry heart craved an answer.


    "Because I had to," she replied calmly, leaving Zeo without words. He released her body and stood still with his gaze lost into nothingness.


    "You know," she started, grabbing Zeo''s cold hands between hers, "Lady Magenta made me everything I am today. She gave me a reason to live, she took care of me when I needed it the most." Maria tightened her lips and narrowed her eyes into a serious expression. "I had to fulfill her last wish."


    Zeo took a deep breath, his hands trembling with anger and frustration. "Wasn''t her last wish for you to live and be happy?"


    Maria nodded. "That''s true, but . . . " Her eyes flickered with a hint of anger. "I could never be happy knowing the monster who took her baby and her dreams is walking this world unpunished."


    Zeo''s jaw dropped, and then he stuttered his next question, "I thought Ronner had killed the ones who did that to her."


    Maria shook her head as she squeezed his hand tightly. "Ronner did kill most of the men who attacked her that night, but . . . " She began trembling, and sweat covered her palms. "The main perpetrator who used her as a toy for his friends'' entertainment and himself is still alive."


    "Is he here?"


    She nodded. "If what Debrin Kavram said is true, not only he''s here, he''s the head of this disgusting organization, hiding under the facade of protecting the life of this world." Maria sobbed, and her whole body shuddered. The joy Zeo knew in her eyes was long gone. "He''s the leader of The Hunters, the true and only monster who has played with each one of us from the day we were born."


    The last piece of the twisted puzzle of life and death fit perfectly in Zeo''s brain, and the light of wisdom seemed to open his eyes once and forever. He recalled the words of that man he killed: he spoke the truth.


    Zeo pulled Maria against his chest, embracing her trembling body tightly next to his furious heart.


    "No matter what," Maria murmured between sobs, "they can not know where Debrin Kavram''s hideout is. Promise me, Zeo . . . Remnya''s life and Magenta''s dreams depend on his success. Everything will fall apart if they find him."


    . . .


    "They''ll never know."


    Zeo didn''t need to think his words.


    That truth would die with him.


    *¡ã*¡ã*

 Rem & Zeo ~Artwork~

    Rem & Zeo By Crysom</a>


    This story has been taken without authorization. Report any sightings.


    <div>


    Tears blurred her vision as she contemplated her friend for the last time.


    The boy who had turned into a warrior, the boy who had given her a reason to believe in dreams and fight for them, the boy who had taught her how to be a human.

 ~Interlude~

    A hope and a dream.


    Two paths, one destiny, and a war brewing on the horizon.


    The growth of two young souls whose fates were written with blood.


    Reading on this site? This novel is published elsewhere. Support the author by seeking out the original.


    The Girl With The Crimson Eyes


    ~PART TWO~


    Conclusion


    *¡ã*¡ã*


    Next Chapter: November 5

 49: Journey Of Fire

    Remnya


    The soothing song of crickets faded in the distance, and moonlight seeped into Remnya''s room through a small window, drawing exotic shadows over the blanket covering her body. She lay still in the darkness, assimilating her surroundings, her eyes sweeping the unknown, wondering where Ellyn and that man had gone.


    Aided by the tenuous glow of the moon, Remnya discerned the shapes of her bed, a different one from the hospital, cozier and softer. But when had she left the hospital? Her last memory was the face of Debrin Kavram, his penetrating eyes digging into her soul.


    The rest was a cloudy void.


    Under the covers, she felt warm and comfortable, but crazy ideas raced in her head, trying to connect the dots of her past and figure out where fate had taken her. As Remnya squirmed and stretched her arms and legs, she realized her broken bones had healed.


    A wisp of peace eased the anxiety oppressing her chest.


    He hadn''t hurt her.


    The silhouettes of trees danced outside, shaken violently by the wind that whistled through the cracks of her window.


    However, when the night fell still, she overheard quiet snores coming from a corner.


    Her blood froze.


    Someone else was there with her, but Remnya couldn''t see it. Her heart began pumping adrenaline throughout her body again, and cold sweat prickled on her back.


    Yanking the blanket off her, Remnya jumped from the bed and, holding the mattress, staggered awkwardly until her legs balanced her body. But as she tried to take the first step, she fell to her knees.


    Remnya held back a grunt of pain and rubbed her bruised skin. How long had it been since she walked for the last time?


    Unable to use her legs, she crawled toward the source of that sound.


    From the corner of her eyes, Remnya sighted the reflection of the moon on a metallic doorknob, revealing a half-open door, and as she got closer, a familiar face emerged amid the gloom.


    Debrin Kavram.


    He was motionless, sitting on the cold floor and snoring.


    Remnya stifled a gasp and scowled at the sight.


    She remained still like a statue and took a moment to understand her new reality. An avalanche of questions filled her mind, and opposite ideas battled in her head, yet the tempest in her heart seemed to calm down.


    Even though that man''s intentions remained unknown, her gut told her she shouldn''t fear him.


    His snores resounded across the room while Remnya forced herself to stand up and walk. As a toddler, it took her several tries to take her first step.


    On the tenth attempt, Remnya succeeded, and without thinking, she rushed to leave the room.


    There was a short corridor sunken in darkness and, in the end, a room illuminated by a weak glow. Remnya tiptoed toward it, keeping her senses alert for any slight change, sound, or movement.


    On the other side, an old lamp hanging from a wooden ceiling revealed a cramped room.


    Mountains of boxes and tools rested over a table and scattered across the floor. Scanning the place, Remnya saw a gas stove and a large cupboard that looked hundreds of years old. On the opposite side, two ancient bookshelves completed the chaos.


    The entire room looked stuck fifty years into the past.


    As Remnya explored the place, the smell of fried food reached her nose, making her mouth water.


    She noticed a pan covered by a plate on the stove and rushed to it.


    Lifting the cover, Remnya saw an unfinished omelet with a fork stuck in it with a steak. She had forgotten the last time she saw such a nice-looking meal and the last time she ate solid food.


    Remnya swept her surroundings with a quick glance and grabbed the fork, wondering if she had gone crazy. But rushed by hunger, she began eating.


    Remnya didn''t notice when she finished it, but the pan was clean within a few seconds. Licking her lips and fingers, she thought that meal was one of the best she had had since her time in the mansion.


    Yet her stomach kept growling.


    "There must be more food somewhere in here," Remnya whispered, scanning her surroundings. She crouched to look into the cupboard''s doors and drawers. She searched everywhere, but most were crammed with pans, plates, and other tableware. However, Remnya found a bag of chips in a corner, and faster than she could think, she devoured it too.


    KNOCK, KNOCK, KNOCK.


    The front door resounded like an earthquake across the room, shaking the walls and ground.


    Kicking a chair out of her way, Remnya rushed to hide under the table. Like a scared animal, she peeked at the door from behind a pile of boxes.


    The blows against the door intensified for a while, but then they stopped.


    Remnya let out a brief sigh of relief, but then a loud bang smashed the door, almost shattering the wood in half.


    It opened and slammed against another pile of boxes, sending tools and devices flying everywhere.


    A giant-looking man stomped in, carrying a leather sack over his shoulder. A gust of chilly wind broke in after his steps, making Remnya shiver. She clenched her fists and remained still while her heart echoed in her brain.


    The man kicked the door shut and sauntered toward the table, dropping the sack on the floor. He glanced at the stove and scowled, noticing the mess Remnya had made. The ground shook as he stomped toward the cupboard to put everything back in place.


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    Remnya held her breath while a bead of sweat rolled down her forehead.


    Silence.


    "Why are you hiding?" the man asked, his deep voice resounding in Remnya''s brain and chest like an explosion while he lifted the tablecloth and looked at her.


    When had he moved so fast and next to her?


    Remnya let out a high-pitched scream and grabbed a spoon from a box. Without thinking, she slammed it against his head.


    Unimpressed, the man snatched the spoon away from her and narrowed his fiery gray eyes, scolding her with a deadly expression. "Don''t do that."


    An icy shiver ran down Remnya''s back, her eyes locked on that unknown monster.


    "Hey, don''t scare the kid!" Debrin''s voice came booming from the corridor, and his sleepy face peeked out from behind the wall.


    He took a quick look at them, glared, and then turned around, returning to his room as if nothing had happened.


    The big man guffawed and stood, inviting Remnya with his hand to come out. "I''m sorry, I didn''t mean to scare you. . . Remnya, right?"


    Remnya took a long moment to breathe and allowed her heart to quieten. She leaned onward and scrutinized his massive figure, noticing a long thick tail sneaking from under his black coat. "Yes," she murmured, scowling at him.


    Finally, Remnya gathered the courage to come out from under the table and stand before him.


    "Nice to meet you, Remnya." He smiled, displaying perfect teeth, and stretched his hand at her. "I am Merle."


    Remnya scanned him from head to toe. His short silver hair looked like snow under the pale lamp, and the multiple scars on his wrinkled face told many war stories.


    Reluctantly, she took his massive hand.


    He nodded at her, and then Remnya saw something that froze her blood.


    Nephilim horns.


    Merle noticed her reaction and chuckled. "Yes, I am like you." He scratched his right horn. "I know you''ve only had bad experiences with people of your race, but know that not all of us are like that. The Hunters are the true monsters here, not us, Nephilims."


    Remnya averted her eyes and tightened her lips. "It doesn''t matter," she murmured.


    Merle patted her head. His heavy hand seemed to crush her skull. "You''ve gone through too much, young girl. Give yourself some time to relax."


    Remnya flinched away from his touch and glared at him.


    He smiled and walked toward the stove, leaning over it. "It seems like you''re feeling better, though. You ate my food."


    "Sorry," Remnya mumbled, pursing her lips.


    "Take a seat. I''ll prepare more food." He grabbed a pot and filled it with water.


    Remnya stood still. She clenched her teeth and locked her gaze on the cracked floor, trying to process the events unfolding around her. Part of her refused to believe those people weren''t trying to hurt her.


    It couldn''t be real.


    Merle glanced at her while he took a bag full of eggs from a box. "Let me help you order your ideas, young girl," he said, cracking the eggs over a pan and turning on the stove. "Debrin, the fool sleeping right now, and I, are part of the Silver Army of Karx. I am the second in command, or as my people like to call me, Captain Merle." He mixed spices and salt in the pan, the smell reaching Remnya''s nose. "You might be wondering why we are living in such a pigsty. It''s unlike Karx, isn''t it?" He chuckled.


    "I honestly know nothing about Karx." Remnya pushed the words out of her throat and sat on the chair next to the table.


    "Well, let me tell you something interesting. None of us share the ideals of either Karx or The Hunters. They''re equally pathetic, in our eyes." Merle locked his gaze on her and made a long silence. "We''re part of Karx, yes, but we follow our own rules."


    "You''re a Nephilim," Remnya said, narrowing her eyes at him. "I thought all Nephilims were supposed to be part of The Hunters."


    He giggled and shook his head, "I''d rather die before joining those fellas. I believe you''ve already had a taste of the kind of people they are."


    Remnya lowered her head and clenched her fists. "They have my friend Zeo."


    "I know." Merle''s expression darkened. "He''s alive, though."


    "Really?" Remnya jumped off the chair, and her eyes widened, shining with hope. "How do you know that?"


    Merle scratched his head. "We have undercover warriors in The Hunters, of course. We also know their top priority right now is Debrin''s head."


    "Is it because of me?" Remnya bit her lower lip as a fire burned her chest.


    "No." He crossed his arms. "This was supposed to happen sooner or later. We''re a big pebble in their shoes. They had wanted to eliminate us for years. Yet here we are." Merle smirked.


    Remnya took one step forward and gathered the strength to speak through the knot in her throat. "Is there a chance to save my friend, mister?"


    "There is, but. . ." He took a moment to scrutinize her malnourished figure. "That''s beyond your reach right now, Remnya."


    His words felt like knives through the skin. "I don''t care!" She raised her voice. "I need to rescue my friend no matter what!"


    "Then go out there, get kidnapped, and turn your friend''s sacrifice into a futile endeavor." Merle''s voice was calm, but his eyes pierced through her soul.


    Remnya stammered; words had left her mouth.


    "Nobody will force you to stay here. You''re free to go whenever you want." He turned his back to her and continued cooking.


    A long silence.


    "However. . ." Merle glanced at her, "if you decide to stay, you''ll be very welcome."


    Remnya lowered her head as tears welled up in her eyes. At that moment, she felt stupid and pathetic.


    Crimson sparks shot from her fingers as she buried her nails into her skin.


    A heavy hand landed on her shoulder. "Please, always raise your head when you cry," Merle said firmly. "There''s no shame in it."


    Remnya lifted her eyes at him and wiped her tears with the back of her hand. "I don''t know what to do anymore. . ."


    Merle handed Remnya a paper towel and then spoke softly, "You know, Debrin found you over one month ago. After that, you remained unconscious in the hospital for weeks, and during that time, he and I guarded that place 24/7." Merle leaned closer, gazing into her pupils. "You have a second chance in life now, Remnya. Very few in your position can say the same. Don''t let it go to waste, please."


    Remnya pursed her lips, rubbed her tears angrily, and let out a deep sigh of frustration. "Why did he help me that night? Why me?"


    "Didn''t he tell you already?"


    "He said people wanted to protect me, but that''s not enough of a reason to go so far for me. . ."


    "He''s a weird guy, I must say." Merle patted her back and returned to the stove. "Perhaps, he wanted to make up for his past mistakes. . . who knows?"


    Silence.


    Remnya nodded and sniffled, blowing her nose with the paper towel. "I won''t abandon my friend. . . No way! No matter what you say! I need to help him."


    "If our research is correct, your powers have an immense potential." Merle turned off the oven. "You managed to take down powerful opponents, like that Doman''s guy. What was his name? Skado?"


    "How do you know about that?" The memories of that night returned like a hurricane into Remnya''s mind, even the pain, the last time she was awake to hug Brisa.


    He ignored her question. "Your powers are still immature and untrained, yet your abilities are impressive. With proper training, you could become the hope for not only your friend but also for the weak out there, who fight to survive in this fucked up world."


    Remnya lifted her gaze at him, her eyes sparkling with a hint of hope. "Would you train me?" she requested, her words recklessly leaving her mouth.


    Merle guffawed and then strolled toward Remnya with a smile on his face. "Do I look like a warrior to you?" He lifted his right hand, and a ball of blinding white fire emerged in his palm, sparking and hissing. "I''m not good at teaching, but. . ." The flame first turned pink and then gained a deep crimson color. "I can try."


    Remnya fell on her knees and bowed to him, her head touching the floor. "Please, teach me how to control my fire! I want to grow stronger and save my friend. Please, Mister Merle, teach me!" Tears trailed down her cheeks and fell on the ground, and the blaze in her chest burned hotter with an avalanche of emotions.


    Merle kneeled in front of her and grabbed her chin, lifting her face to look into her eyes. "Don''t do that, please. You''re not a beggar." He beamed at her. "You''re a warrior, Remnya. I-No, we will do everything we can to help you."


    "You can count on it."


    His words filled Remnya''s soul like a sea of magma, the heat running through her veins. She smiled and nodded, feeling how the crimson flame of hope burned in her chest again.


    A crimson path of fire awaited her, and Remnya was willing to embark on that long journey. Once and forever, she wanted to accept her Nephilim nature and fulfill her last destiny.


    To live and die by the fire.


    *¡ã*¡ã*


    Next Chapter: November 9

 50: Rebirth

    Remnya


    Remnya woke up past noon and found herself alone in the bedroom. Birds chirped atop an orange tree next to her window while sunbeams seeped through the crystal, warming her body. She remained still with her eyes locked on the ceiling, taking a moment to assimilate her new environment.


    The smoke of lavender incense lingered in the air, causing her nose to itch.


    Pushing the blanket aside, Remnya jumped off the bed and peeked out the window, witnessing a backyard full of fruit trees and flowers and a dense forest that seemed to surround everything in sight.


    Where am I?


    Remnya turned to inspect the narrow room. A nightstand rested next to her bed, and on top of it, a small picture frame. Carefully, she took it between her hands and observed the worn photo of a young girl. It had to belong to Debrin, no doubt.


    She rushed to put it back in place and continued looking around. Several piles of boxes were scattered on the floor, and in a corner, an ancient-looking wardrobe loomed over her.


    Hanging on a wooden chair, Remnya saw a pair of pants and a shirt. She concluded someone had left them there for her since no other person could fit those clothes. Debrin and Merle were huge, taller than Marcus ever was.


    Marcus.


    Remnya swallowed and clenched her fists, pushing any futile feeling away, and rushed to change her clothes. Surprisingly, they fit her well. The design was plain, but the thread was of high quality. Remnya found a pair of sneakers next to her bed, the perfect size for her feet.


    Wearing new clothes for the first time in weeks, Remnya rushed out of the room.


    The kitchen looked as cramped as last night, and the smell of fried food refused to leave. But rather than eating, Remnya wanted to explore her new world and discover what kind of fate awaited her outside.


    As soon as Remnya opened the door, the fresh, moist air of nature welcomed her with open green arms.


    A dirt walkway crossed a corridor of citrus trees and led to what seemed to be the main road. Their hideout was a rustic cottage built with rock and bricks, surrounded by wilderness. Remnya could barely see the horizon through the dense vegetation, yet she spotted nearby mountains half-covered by low clouds.


    The song of birds lit the afternoon while the spring sun warmed her pale skin once again. The fresh breeze of nature filled Remnya''s lungs with a sense of peace she hadn''t felt in a long time. She wandered the place, her mouth half-open in awe.


    Without realizing it, Remnya made it to the main road. Half of it remained in the shadows, covered by oaks and pines, but as she advanced, the vegetation opened, revealing a small creek.


    Remnya spotted a familiar face.


    Debrin Kavram.


    He sat on a rock next to a stream of crystalline water. Next to him, there was a mountain of vegetables, ranging from carrots and potatoes to pumpkins. Debrin didn''t seem to notice her. He held a knife and peeled carrots in the slowest possible way.


    Remnya slammed her feet on dried leaves and stood in the middle of his eyesight.


    He tossed a carrot into a bucket with water and grabbed a potato. "Did you sleep well?" he asked, not taking his eyes away from his task.


    Remnya nodded and walked closer, raising her right eyebrow at him. "What are you doing?"


    "We''ll have guests tonight." He twirled the knife in his hand and twisted his lips. "And they eat a lot."


    Remnya stood in front of him and observed him for a while. His dark-ginger hair reflected the sunlight, turning it almost red. She noticed a deep scar crossing his right eye and the whisker-like stripes on his cheeks.


    Debrin wore a muscle shirt, displaying his massive arms and pale skin. More scars covered his biceps and forearms, a testament to countless battles. A tattoo showed on his left shoulder; a V-like symbol intertwined with a black snake and the number seven.


    "Is that a Karx tattoo?" Remnya asked, leaning forward to have a better look.


    Debrin bobbed his head. "The ''V'' means Vuratzavav: Vurat is honor, Zava is life. Literally: To live in honor." He lifted his gaze at Remnya, his pupils two thin lines, like the ones of an enraged feline. "The snake symbolizes nature, its brutality, and its beauty."


    Remnya widened her eyes and nodded, clueless. "Why the number?"


    "My army," he replied, resuming his task of peeling vegetables.


    "Where are we?" Remnya asked, observing a flock of blue parrots flying above them.


    "Lacacia forest, province of Penzey." Debrin pointed his knife at the highest mountain on the horizon. "Beyond that volcano rises the valley of Nebran." He turned to the opposite side. "Behind us, the hills of Crysalton."


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    "How far are we from. . ." Remnya averted her eyes.


    Silence.


    Debrin stared at her almost tenderly. "The Hunters'' headquarters are about 400 kilometers from here. Though, I believe Merle explained how pointless it is for you to return there."


    "He said he would train me," Remnya rushed to add.


    "If he said so, he will. However, that doesn''t mean you''ll be able to save your friend."


    His words stung Remnya''s skin like cold knives. "We don''t know that!" She scowled.


    "Remnya." Debrin raised his voice, fixing his sunset eyes into hers. "I''ll be honest with you. It''s impossible for you to save your friend on your own."


    Remnya clenched her fists. "I know that!" she shouted. "Why I need your help with it."


    Debrin lifted his eyebrows.


    "Please, I need you to help me rescue my friend." Remnya stared at him, feeling her eyes and throat burning. She had cried so much in her nightmares to the point her eyes had gone dry. Yet the pain stung like thousands of needles in her flesh.


    He let out a silent sigh. "As much as I''d like to help you, that''s beyond my power right now."


    "But you''re super strong!" Remnya took one step forward, narrowing her eyes at him. "You defeated that man with ease, I remember." She swallowed and bit her lower lip, trying not to recall the events from that horrible night. "You''re probably stronger than Ronner."


    Debrin took a deep breath and twirled the knife in his hand twice. "That was reckless and foolish of me. Such action put my whole army in danger. We, Karx, aren''t allowed to confront The Hunters unless it''s for survival. Yet, I was a deserter and broke a sacred rule, triggering a potential war upon us. Now, what do you think would happen if I attacked the very core of The Hunters?"


    Remnya tried to speak, but words didn''t dare to leave her mouth. She remained still, struggling to think of coherent words. "Why did you help me then? I need to know this." Her eyes pierced through Debrin, seeking an answer. "If I am such a burden. Why even bother?"


    He threw the knife into the ground, the metal buried into the soil, and then he lifted his gaze at Remnya. "That woman, Ellyn, and her boyfriend arrived at one of my army''s camps one night. My people were ready to execute them, but I got there in time. That''s when I learned about you for the first time."


    Debrin leaned forward and furrowed his eyebrows. "Not long after that, a young girl called Maria arrived at our main base. I learned about Ronner''s plans too, and all the chaos his actions would cause to not only Karx and The Hunters but also the entire country."


    "Maria. . ." Remnya murmured but chose not to interrupt him.


    "At first, I thought stopping Ronner would be easy, but that''s when I found out The Hunters had their eyes on him. He had tried to ally with The Hunters by using Persen Doman."


    "Ronner was a monster. . ." Remnya whispered, "yet, he was nowhere as awful as Persen and The Hunters."


    "Ronner was a prodigy but too smart and arrogant for his own good." Debrin closed his eyes and remained thoughtful for long seconds. "He was a ticking bomb, a reckless creature who could never follow orders. He would always put my army in danger with his actions, why I saw myself forced to banish him."


    "Do you know how he died?" Remnya tightened her lips and lowered her head.


    "Ronner had become a nuisance for The Hunters. Unpredictable and gaining power too quickly, he had to be eliminated. So they set up a trap for him. They used that woman to lure him away." For the first time, Remnya observed a hint of anger in Debrin''s icy expression. "The most pitiful about it is, they didn''t even get their hands dirty with blood. . . They used other people like puppets to do the job."


    "That woman you mentioned. . ." Tears trailed down Remnya''s cheeks, burning her skin. "She. . . she was like a sister to me."


    "Was she?" Debrin made a long pause and stared at Remnya deeply. "She is alive, and as far as I know, safe."


    "WHAT?" Remnya rushed to Debrin''s side and put her hands on his shoulders, leaning forward, almost touching his forehead with hers. "IS SHE REALLY ALIVE? HOW DO YOU KNOW THAT?"


    Debrin twisted his lips as if trying not to smile. "When I arrived at the battlefield, I only found Ronner''s corpse. My people told me a woman had escaped north with two wounded men. I assumed she was the girl Ronner tried to protect, so I ordered my people to make sure she made it out of there safely."


    Remnya didn''t know when her body moved, but the next second, she noticed her arms wrapped around Debrin and tears streaming down her cheeks like a torrent. She hugged him with all her strength, feeling a warm sensation in her soul.


    Finally, Remnya realized she could trust that man.


    Debrin remained like a rock, blinking in confusion while Remnya cried against his shoulder.


    Silence.


    It took her several seconds to understand what she was doing.


    But as soon as Remnya saw herself hugging Debrin Kavram, she pushed away from him, embarrassed.


    Hiding her red face behind a strand of hair, she murmured, "I am sorry. . ."


    Debrin chuckled, displaying a stiff yet genuine smile. "I didn''t know she was important to you."


    "She''s as important as my friend Zeo." Remnya sniffled and wiped her tears with the back of her hands. "All I want is for them to be safe."


    "I know she was safe, though I don''t know where they were heading to."


    "I need to find her too," Remnya added, raising her voice. "Did you know she''s pregnant?"


    "What?" Debrin tilted his head. "Who is the father?"


    "Ronner, of course!" Remnya shouted, her voice echoing throughout the forest.


    Debrin raised one eyebrow and scratched his head. "That explains a lot." He crossed his arms and remained silent for a moment. "I need to inform my people about this so they can track her."


    "Will you find her?" Remnya smiled, jumping in excitement.


    "If my people can find her, I will ask them to make sure she survives. She''s carrying the child of one of my ex-soldiers after all." Debrin sighed. "A hybrid too. I can''t allow The Hunters to lay a finger on him or her."


    Remnya nodded eagerly at his words. "Is this part of Karx''s code of honor too? The tattoo thing?"


    "No," he replied, standing up. Remnya looked up at him; her head barely reached his shoulders. "This is our own code of honor."


    Remnya widened her eyes and tried to hide an awkward smile. "That''s awesome. . ."


    Debrin shrugged. "It can''t be helped. We''re all a bunch of fools, aren''t we?"


    "No, you''re not." Remnya giggled. "By the way, you didn''t tell me why you helped me yet."


    Silence.


    "Well. . . about that." Debrin walked closer, standing right in front of her. "When three humans risk their lives to protect a child, what else am I supposed to do?"


    "Still! You went too far to protect someone like me." Remnya tugged her shirt and tightened her lips. "Why?"


    Debrin rested his large hand on Remnya''s head. "You know, my girl would''ve been your age today." He messed up her hair with rough yet tender strokes. "Do you expect me to allow The Hunters to take the life of an innocent child again?"


    Remnya lifted her gaze at him, noticing the melancholy in his sunset eyes. "What was her name?"


    "Crimson."


    He smiled.


    "Her name was Crimson Kavram."


    *¡ã*¡ã*

 51: The Hunter And The Haunted

    Zeo


    Zeo saw the blue sky for the first time after weeks of isolation. He waited in the courtyard as ordered by Edo. Mountains loomed over him, building a fortress around The Hunters'' territory. Zeo ignored his location, but the falcons gliding above his head and the thin air told him he was from the city. A perfect hideout to carry out the most brutal crimes against defenseless creatures.


    A thick collar around his neck prevented him from any attempt to escape. It served not only as a tracker but also released a powerful electric shock through microscopic needles hidden, ready to pierce his neck had he tried anything stupid.


    The chilly wind against his skin gave him goosebumps while clouds circled the sun, threatening another gray day.


    Edo showed in the distance, striding in his direction. After him, Zeo recognized Alayna.


    According to rumors from behind the walls, The Hunters had rescued Alayna and treated her wounds. However, she had been stripped from her warrior title and downgraded to mundane and humiliating tasks, such as cleaning cells or serving food to prisoners.


    Without her Hunter uniform and badges, she dressed as an ordinary servant, a plain yet elegant long dress with a dog emblem on her shoulder that let everyone know she was The Hunter''s property.


    Alayna glanced at Zeo with lifeless eyes and twisted her lips, covered by lipstick someone had forced her to wear.


    A shadow of the prideful warrior she had once been.


    Ordered by Edo, Zeo followed them into a large hall located in the main building.


    Zeo stood behind them and observed an exotic table in the middle of the room decorated with diamonds. The Hunters'' emblem shone high on the walls: a wolf-like creature with horns, engulfed by the five elements of Earth, finely crafted in gold and gems.


    They waited for the second Lieutenant, the third in command of their army. Zeo knew she had an announcement to make but ignored why he had to be present.


    Alayna squirmed next to Edo and crossed her arms behind her back while Edo hissed and tapped his boots against the marble floor.


    Half an hour passed until loud steps echoed from the open door.


    The second lieutenant sauntered into the hall, holding a notebook and a smile plastered across her face.


    Her name was Marakudra, or Mara, as Edo called her, along with a dozen insults. She wore the classic Hunters'' black coat and emblem on her shoulder. Her coffee eyes sparkled with joy, so Zeo assumed the worst.


    Alayna bowed to her while Edo snarled, pointing at the clock on the wall.


    Mara took her time to stroll around the room and sat at the furthermost end of the table. She beamed at them, her perfect teeth and fangs highlighting her mocha skin.


    She twirled a curl of her hair and stared at Edo, enjoying his displeasure. Zeo noticed the horns sprouting from her head.


    "Eddy! Long time no see!" she said, leaning on the table like an excited child. "Guess what!"


    Edo bared his teeth. "I don''t fucking know," he spat, gesturing at her to spill the news.


    She pouted, but her eyes expressed something else. "Our beloved captain Leuko is dead."


    Edo widened his eyes. "What are you talking about?"


    "It seems like he couldn''t find the Nephilim kid and instead found a gruesome death." Mara shrugged and shook her head in disappointment.


    Edo clenched his fist, burying his nails into his palm. "Bullshit! Nobody out there has the power to challenge our captain and live!" he roared, taking one step forward.


    "So. . . is this bullshit too?" Mara pushed the notebook across the table toward Edo, who snatched it mid-air.


    As he read the papers, the veins in his forehead bulged on the verge of blowing up.


    "No way this is true!" He slammed the notebook against the table, cracking the crystal and wood. "Who? Who could do this? Answer me!"


    Marakudra sighed and shook her head. "Who knows, but whoever did it turned our beloved captain into a bloody pulp." She giggled.


    Edo kicked a chair out of his way, breaking it in half, and stomped toward Mara. "Watch your mouth when talking about him, bitch!"


    Silence.


    Mara''s expression darkened, and her eyes began to glow red. "Your captain is right before your eyes." She shot a deadly glare at him and stood up. "And if you plan to keep your remaining hand, you better learn how to talk to me more properly."


    Hatred seemed to erupt through Edo''s veins while his clenched fist trembled. Zeo could feel the bloodlust emanating from his body.


    Suddenly, two men with black masks and robes broke into the room.


    The whole atmosphere changed.


    Death filled the air.


    The men stood still by the door like statues, but their hollow eyes pierced through Edo.


    Edo stared back at them for a moment.


    They didn''t seem human; their presence resembled something else, ghastly and rotten, forcing Zeo to avert his eyes from them.


    Not even Edo dared to hold his gaze on them. In the end, he loosened his fist, let out a silent sigh, and lowered his head.


    "My apologies, captain Marakudra," Edo murmured.


    She chuckled and licked her lips. "Good boy."


    Within the tension of the moment, a smile forced its way across Zeo''s face; with Leuko dead, Remnya was safe.


    "Who do you think killed Leuko?" Edo asked calmly.


    Mara shrugged. "No idea, but we know a thing for sure. There''s someone out there with powers that surpasses ours. The Great Lord is eager to find out too. He has sent several expeditions into Crysalton and Penzey to locate the responsible."


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    "Penzey. . ." Edo twisted his lips. "That province is controlled by Karx."


    "Which is why the Lord sent a Rank A Squad into the city." Mara sauntered over to them and stood in front of Edo. Zeo noticed she was the same height as him in her heels. "You know what''s the best thing about this, though?"


    "What?"


    She leaned forward as a sinister smirk drew across her face. "The Lord authorized us to eliminate any Karx member we find in our way." She giggled, caressing Edo''s cheek with the back of her hand.


    "What about. . . Debrin Kavram." Edo''s voice hesitated when he mentioned him.


    "Debrin Kavram. . ." Marakudra swallowed. "That monster wouldn''t dare to step in our territory and kill one of us. . . Right?" She narrowed her eyes. "Are you telling me he took the Nephilim girl with him?"


    "If that''s the case, he needs to be eliminated as soon as possible. Unfortunately, we have not managed to find his main base yet."


    "I believe you have the source of such valuable information with you." Mara''s gaze landed on Zeo.


    She grinned and walked to him, scanning him from head to toe. Marakudra stood before him, her toxic perfume of peaches burning Zeo''s lungs. She patted his head. "I plan to be a good captain, Eddy, better than our dear deceased Leuko."


    "I believe that," Edo whispered.


    "I''ll lift your restrictions regarding this cute Anglish."


    Zeo''s blood froze.


    "Obtain as much information as possible from him. I don''t care what means you have to use for it." A sinister smirk spread across her face.


    Edo turned to Zeo, his pupil penetrating his body like a rusted sword. "I''ll get to it, captain."


    Marakudra returned to Edo and placed her index finger on his lips. "Though, there''s a rule." She leaned closer, and her nose touched his. "You can''t kill him."


    Edo took one step back and bowed to her. "Thank you very much."


    "One more thing," Mara added, her smirk displaying a hint of wicked intentions. She walked to Alayna and ruffled her hair. "This pretty one will be my personal pet from now on."


    Edo''s whole body became stiff. He turned to Mara, his eye quivering. "Why her?"


    "Because. . ." Mara sniffed Alayna''s neck and ran her fingers down her chest, stroking her breasts. "I like to break prideful toys."


    "That''s. . ." Edo started but bit his tongue. However, Zeo noticed how his face changed every time he looked at Alayna.


    Marakudra glared at him. "You don''t seem too happy about it, Eddy."


    "It''s not that," Edo rushed to say. He stared at Alayna, who locked her eyes on him and seemed to shake her head slowly. "If that''s your decision. . . so be it, captain." Words forced their way through his lips.


    "Perfect!" Mara beamed at him, her fangs reflecting the sunlight coming from the door, and then her eyes returned to Alayna. "Don''t worry, little crossbreed. . . I''ll be gentle with you."


    *¡ã*¡ã*


    That night, sleep arrived sooner than expected. Insomnia vanished, and something strange in the air drowned Zeo''s nightmares, giving his mind a break from the chaos.


    After one month, he could finally rest.


    However, peace was a leisure a crossbreed like himself didn''t deserve.


    Distant voices echoed in the darkness like faceless ghosts. Soothing at first, but as Zeo''s senses began to wake up, they intensified, hammering his brain repeatedly.


    Silence.


    A metallic smell mixed with decay filled his nose and mouth.


    Zeo woke up to screams of terror, drilling his ears with unintelligible words of mercy.


    As his eyes adapted to the blinding lights surrounding him, he glimpsed two legs drenched with blood and a crimson pool growing beneath them.


    A young man with horns hung from the wall, restrained by locks around his neck and limbs. Both his hands were missing, torn apart as they lay on the ground motionless.


    In front of him, a massive Nephilim held a broken sword. Shirtless, his veiny arms were the size of Zeo''s torso.


    The young man panted, his body shaking uncontrollably and his lifeless eyes staring into nothingness.


    "Where am I. . ." Zeo murmured and tried to walk forward, but his body didn''t move an inch. He understood his situation; metal devices held his limbs and neck with brutal force.


    "You woke up just in time, crossbreed," The Nephilim said, shooting a contemptuous glance at Zeo, and then his eyes returned to his prey.


    With a violent thrust of his arm, he buried the sword into the young man''s stomach.


    His victim let out a short cry, quickly drowned by a dirty rag the Nephilim shoved into his mouth.


    "Stop!" Zeo roared, glaring at him.


    The Nephilim sneered. "Watch closely, crossbreed, because this is the fate of those who dare to challenge The Hunters." He twisted the sword in his flesh, giggling while the man contorted and grunted in excruciating pain. "How ironic, though. Stabbed by his own sword." The Nephilim guffawed and licked the fresh blood spilled on his face.


    "Fucking coward. . ." The sharp locks around Zeo''s wrists began cutting his skin like knives as he shook them violently in a futile attempt to break free.


    A beep followed by a clang in the distance announced the arrival of another monster.


    The large gate opened, allowing a gelid wind to fill the room, freezing the sweat on Zeo''s skin.


    Heavy steps drew near until then the nasty figure of Edo emerged among the shadows.


    He stared at Zeo, like a lion stalking his prey, and strolled in his direction, holding a cross-shaped knife. Its blue gleam reflected on Zeo''s pupils as the sharp edge swung in Edo''s hand.


    A grim atmosphere engulfed the place.


    "Lieutenant Edo," the Nephilim said, bowing.


    "Leave," Edo ordered, not taking his pupil away from Zeo.


    His subordinate nodded and rushed to leave the room, ignoring the dying man in front of him.


    As the gate closed, an echo persisted in the distance, slowly fading away.


    Everything remained in absolute silence for the next minute.


    The splatters of dried blood painting the walls told Zeo several tragic stories while the reek of death lingered around them like the heavy mist of a macabre tale.


    Without words, Zeo understood his destiny.


    . . .


    At last, Edo spoke, "I''ll be clear and concise with you. Reveal Debrin Kavram''s location, and I''ll allow you to go unharmed." He twisted his wrinkled lips, hatred dripping from his disgusting demeanor. "I give you my word."


    Zeo stifled a chuckle. "What makes you think I care that much about my life?"


    Darkness consumed Edo''s face, sinking it into a deadly glare. "I can''t say I am surprised, crossbreed." He leaned closer, his hot, humid breath hitting Zeo''s skin. "You''re too stupid to understand your pitiful position. But unfortunately, your trial is over. Today your promised hell begins."


    Silence.


    Zeo lifted his gaze, locking his eyes on Edo''s red pupil. "So be it." His words erupted from the depth of his throat, cold and fearless, resounding throughout the room like an earthquake.


    Edo''s hand trembled around the hilt of his knife as his fingernails buried into his skin.


    For a moment, he seemed to hesitate as if his hatred had suddenly disappeared.


    With a grunt of frustration, Edo lifted the knife, placing it in front of Zeo.


    Zeo observed the beautiful cobalt gleam of titanium alloy inches away from his left eye.


    "Last chance," Edo whispered, his words weaker than expected, almost refusing to leave his mouth. His hand quivered while a bead of sweat rolled down his skin.


    "You care about Alayna, don''t you?" Zeo said, looking his executioner straight in the eye.


    Edo bared his teeth and gripped Zeo''s face, clawing his cheeks. "Are these your last words, crossbreed? How stupid can you be?"


    "You can try to fool yourself all you want, but I saw through it." Zeo smiled, defiant. "Despite all the shit you spit, you care about a crossbreed."


    Edo buried his fingers into Zeo''s skin, drawing blood. "Whatever you or I believe means nothing. Crossbreeds are what they are, inferior creatures, mistakes of nature that should not exist."


    "Pitiful, isn''t it?" Zeo chuckled, almost disappointed. "Being a prisoner of yourself must be sad."


    Edo released his face and remained silent for a moment, the veins in his forehead bulging.


    Slowly placing the knife in front of Zeo''s face, he whispered, "Eventually, you''ll understand why we, Nephilims, are cursed with carrying the weight of this world." Edo spat to the ground with contempt. "Alayna, your friend, and I have all been doomed since the day we were born. I already gave up on trying to change my fate. You better do it soon too."


    . . .


    "Unlike you, I''d rather be free," Zeo sentenced, took a deep breath, and closed his eyes.


    . . .


    Edo swallowed and nodded. For the first time, he looked at Zeo with something other than contempt.


    . . .


    If there''s an afterlife, I''ll meet you there, Rem.


    . . .


    A violent thrust into Zeo''s face.


    The knife penetrated his eyelid and broke through his eyeball.


    Hot blood, like boiling water, streamed down Zeo''s cheeks while an electric pain paralyzed his body and forced him to let out a grunt, yet he clenched his teeth and focused his strength on not giving those monsters the satisfaction of hearing his screams.


    Zeo''s whole body trembled and contorted in agony as shivers traveled throughout his back like electric waves.


    The metallic flavor of blood filled his mouth and nose, choking him.


    Air slowly left his lungs.


    Edo said something, but Zeo couldn''t hear him.


    His body shut down, and the pain turned into numbness and a gelid sensation in his heart.


    The reality, once again, faded to black.


    *¡ã*¡ã*

 52: Fire And Bones

    Remnya


    Night had fallen, and the smell of grilled meat sneaked into Remnya''s bedroom. She lay still in the darkness, listening to the music blaring through the walls, mixed with the shouts and laughter of Debrin''s army.


    They had arrived by twilight and surrounded the house with their camps. According to Merle, they celebrated another successful mission.


    Remnya didn''t feel like meeting new people, but being courteous was the least she could do for those who had protected Brisa. She sat up and took a moment to recover her energy.


    The golden pendant around her neck tickled her skin, reminding her of her last words. Remnya wondered if she''d get to see her sister again.


    Just one last time.


    Remnya rushed to the bathroom to wash the melancholy off her face.


    Looking in the mirror, she noticed how long her hair had gotten; her bangs covered her eyes, and the back touched her tail. She lifted it in a ponytail, adjusted her clothes, and headed outside to face the horde.


    As she opened the door, the music hit her like a train, resounding in her ears and chest with loud thuds.


    Lamps hanging from trees illuminated the forest, along with the orange glow of multiple campfires placed around tables and chairs where Debrin''s people drank and ate.


    Nobody noticed Remnya as she wandered among the crowd. Nephilims, hybrids, and humans; everyone laughed together. An unlikely sight that gave Remnya a dim light of hope.


    A heavy hand landed on her shoulder. She turned and saw Merle beaming at her with a roasted turkey in his left hand.


    "I thought you wouldn''t come," Merle said, the reek of alcohol hitting Remnya like a punch. "Glad to see you!"


    "Mr. Merle, I was just. . ."


    Before she could finish, Merle shoved the turkey into her hands, covering her clothes and skin with sauce and oil. "You''re too skinny. You better start eating more if you want to become strong!"


    She almost dropped the food but caught it mid-air while Merle guffawed at her clumsiness.


    Remnya scowled. "I can''t eat all this on my own." She tried to give the food back, but Merle didn''t listen.


    "Come with me! I will introduce you to the rest of my crew!" He grabbed her arm and dragged her with him toward a table, where a group of shady-looking people gathered.


    Remnya hugged the turkey and gulped when two creepy eyes locked on her.


    "Is this the kid you were talking about?" a shirtless, overweight man said, biting a goat''s thigh. He sat on the floor with a lady by his side.


    "That''s right!" Merle slapped Remnya''s back, trying to be playful, but his massive hand emptied her lungs. "The big fella here is Vladimore, and the beautiful lady next to him is his wife, Ozura."


    Remnya rushed to bow to them. "It''s nice to meet you. I am Remnya." She noticed he and the lady had horns and tails too.


    The big man chewed his meal and scanned Remnya from head to toe while the woman greeted her with a cold smile.


    "Merle said that woman was your friend," Vladimore told Remnya, dipping his bread in spicy sauce.


    "What woman? Brisa?" Remnya asked, widening her eyes.


    "Yeah, that one." He pointed at her and nodded. "We found her."


    "REALLY?" Remnya put the turkey on the table and rushed to him with a smile plastered on her face. "Where is she?"


    Vladimore chuckled, his pink cheeks shining under the yellow light. "The outskirts of Crysalton, hiding in some cabin amid the mountains."


    "Is she okay? Is she alone? Is she safe?" Remnya''s pupils sparkled with hope and joy.


    "She seems to be alright, plus I don''t think The Hunters have any interest in that human."


    Remnya gulped. If they only knew she was pregnant with a hybrid baby.


    "Mister." Remnya narrowed her eyes and took a deep breath. "Will you be coming back to that place soon?"


    He scratched his reddish beard. "We plan to return to Crysalton when the situation is less hostile. The Hunters seem to have begun a witch hunt on our people."


    "I apologize for asking this, but," she said and swallowed slowly before spilling his bold request. "When you return to Crysalton, can I come with you?"


    The whole table fell silent as Remnya waited eagerly for an answer.


    "Sorry, child. That''s beyond your reach right now."


    "I can take care of myself. I promise I won''t cause you any trouble."


    "We know your history." His expression darkened. "I''ll be damned if I risked my people''s lives because of such a naive request. The answer is no."


    Remnya let out a silent sigh and nodded, but her insides burned with anger and frustration.


    "Those crimson eyes are eager to burn the world, aren''t they?" Merle said, putting his hand on Remnya''s head and messing her hair. "I can''t blame Vladimore for not wanting to get burned." He chuckled.


    Remnya leaned away from his touch and averted her eyes. "It''s fine. I don''t want any of you to get in trouble because of me again."


    Merle grabbed a bottle of wine and chugged half its content before speaking again. "If you want to return to Crysalton so bad, I''ll take you there myself."


    "What?" Remnya''s eyes widened like full moons.


    "Consider it part of your training. We''ll find your friend and bring her with us."


    "Are you serious, Mr. Merle?" A wide smile spread across her face.


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    He nodded and finished his drink. "I had planned to return there alone anyway, but your company will come in handy. Tell me something, can you cook?"


    "I''m not good at it, but I will do my best if that''s what you need!" Remnya''s eyes shined as her heart raced in her chest.


    "That works."


    "Merle, what the hell are you talking about?" Vladimore raised his voice, scowling at him, while the group at the table murmured and exchanged disapproving looks. "That''s madness. Have you stopped to think what would happen if The Hunters find out you''re hiding this girl here?"


    "If anyone finds out, we''ll just eliminate them." Merle shrugged.


    "How many drinks have you had?" Vladimore stood up and stomped toward Merle. "You can''t go to Crysalton alone either. The place is completely besieged."


    Merle raised an eyebrow. "Vlad, since when The Hunters scare you so much?"


    "Fool!" Vladimore shouted. "Are you seriously going to risk your life for this child? What about your army? What if you die?"


    "If I die in such a stupid way, it means I was never good enough to lead any of you."


    Vladimore facepalmed and shook his head in frustration. "What makes you think the Boss will allow such stupidity?"


    "Debrin will be the first one to agree."


    Vladimore''s jaw dropped. He tried to say something, but words didn''t dare to come out. He put his hands on his head, showing defeat, and returned to his spot by the table next to Ozura.


    Silence.


    "You''ll have to trust his judgment," the woman said, caressing Vladimore''s back as she held his hand. "He and the Boss are of a different breed. Most of us wouldn''t be here if they weren''t crazy enough to go against all odds."


    Vladimore let out a deep sigh and nodded at her, refusing to look at Merle again. The rest of the group only murmured and shot glances at Remnya.


    Remnya felt as if the weight of a mountain had fallen on her shoulders. The eyes of Karx were on her and penetrated through her skin like knives of distrust.


    Ozura locked her purple eyes on Remnya. "Have you ever killed anyone, young girl?"


    Remnya''s blood froze, and hesitation invaded her body. Yet, she clenched her fists and forced herself to answer. "I haven''t."


    "I see," she said in a soothing voice and observed her for the next minute, which felt like hours for Remnya, who couldn''t bring herself to look back into her eyes.


    "I trust her," Merle said, slamming her hand on Remnya''s shoulder. "She might''ve not killed anyone, but she has looked death straight in the eyes more than once. How many of you have faced The Hunters and lived?"


    Half of the people at the table averted their eyes, but the woman still held her gaze on Remnya.


    "She''s faced people like Ronner, Edo, and Leuko and survived. Yet she''s not afraid to return to the very gates of hell again. If that''s not impressive, I don''t know what it is."


    "If you trust her, I will too," a young man said from a corner.


    "So will I," said the next one, and soon six more followed.


    The woman bobbed her head and smiled. "Alright. We''ll see what she''s made of soon."


    "I''ll prove it to you, miss, and everyone here." Without thinking, words escaped Remnya''s mouth like wildfire. She took one step forward, her heart racing in her chest. "I won''t disappoint my friend, who is waiting for me, nor Brisa, nor anyone!"


    Remnya''s knees felt weak and trembled, but the magma running through her veins kept her standing with raw confidence.


    "She''s a true Nephilim, isn''t she?" Vladimore finally spoke and looked at her with approval, which warmed Remnya''s soul. "It''ll be a dangerous journey, young girl, and having this crazy monster by your side will make it worse." He smiled and glanced at Merle. "Are you ready for it?"


    "Yes! I''ll do my best, mister Vladimore!" Remnya shouted, clenching her sweaty fists.


    Vladimore nodded, and so did Ozura.


    "It''s decided then!" Merle raised his voice and patted Remnya''s head. He whispered in her ear, "Tomorrow, your training will begin."


    "Tomorrow?" Remnya swallowed through a closed throat, and a bead of sweat rolled down her forehead.


    He smirked. "Eat well and get enough rest tonight because tomorrow things are gonna get exciting."


    Remnya raised her head at him and narrowed her eyes. "Yes, sir!"


    *¡ã*¡ã*


    By midnight, the music had faded, and the smell of food vanished into the moist air of the forest. Owls murmured amid the trees while a swarm of fireflies surrounded the tents.


    Before bed, Remnya searched for Debrin. She hadn''t seen him since the morning, but by asking around, she found his location.


    Debrin sat alone in the darkness under an avocado tree, far from the noise. He ate a meal of fresh vegetables he had prepared that afternoon. Two empty pumpkins cut in half rested on the table along with the peels of tomatoes, eggplants, and potatoes.


    Remnya stood nearby and observed him in silence. She could have sworn ten people ate at his table.


    "Why are you alone?" Remnya asked, crossing her arms behind her back.


    "I can''t stand the reek of meat," he said and took a careful bite out of a piece of pumpkin.


    "You don''t eat meat?"


    He chewed slowly and swallowed before answering. "I''m tired of blood, flesh, and bones."


    "I can understand that. I don''t like it a lot either." Remnya walked closer, noticing how no firefly dared to swarm nearby; every insect kept a distance, forming a circle around the zone where Debrin sat. Why?


    He stared at her for a moment, his sunset eyes unreadable as usual. "You''ll go with him tomorrow."


    "Oh, they already told you."


    "No." Debrin pointed at his ears.


    "Right. . ." Remnya chuckled. "Zeo could do the same."


    "Our ears are a curse and a blessing, I guess."


    "I think they''re cute, though." Remnya beamed at him.


    Debrin twisted his lips, hiding a smile. "It''ll be a dangerous journey. Make sure you listen to Merle. If you make a mistake, I won''t be able to protect you anymore."


    "I am aware." Remnya lowered her head. "Why I wanted to ask for your permission before doing this."


    "My permission?"


    "Yeah." Remnya narrowed her eyes and took one step forward. "You went through too much for my sake. It was stupid of me to agree with this without thinking things through. . . I''m sorry."


    "It''s not your fault. I can understand how you feel about your friend. If I had to blame someone, that would be Merle."


    Remnya shook her head. "I know I''m still young and naive. That''s why I want to learn from my mistakes, and I won''t make another reckless decision without asking someone who knows better, like you."


    Debrin raised his eyebrows and brushed a strand of dark-ginger hair away from his eyes. "I believe you should go. I hate to admit it, but Merle is right. We''ve been living on the edge of life and death for far too long. Fear is a feeling he and I have long forgotten." He tilted his head. "Are you afraid, Remnya?"


    She tightened her lips and nodded. "Very."


    "Good." His pupils glowed like the alpenglow. "That means you''re not stupid. You''re ready to do this."


    Remnya beamed at him and nodded. "I promise I won''t disappoint you."


    "I know you won''t." Debrin nodded and began cutting the giant tomato he had harvested in the morning. "Do you want some?" He took one of the halves and offered it to her.


    Remnya was full but didn''t dare reject such a gift from him. She took it between both hands and smiled.


    "By the way." Debrin buried his long kitchen knife into the table and gazed at her. "When you return from your little trip, I''ll tell you about your parents."


    "What did you say?" Remnya''s blood froze as she squeezed the tomato in her hands. "My parents?"


    "When we were researching about you, we ran into some valuable information. At the time, it was essential to be able to find you, but now, I believe such information belongs in your hands."


    "My parents. . ." A burning feeling stung the depths of her chest. "All I know about them is they died during the Blood War."


    "There are things about them that will help you understand more about yourself, and perhaps, find closure."


    Remnya locked her gaze on the ground and remained silent for a moment.


    A gentle breeze caressed her hair.


    "I''ll be happy with anything you tell me about them." She cracked a fragile smile, hiding a tear that trailed down her cheek, which she quickly wiped.


    Debrin''s expression softened. He stood up and walked up to Remnya. "Make sure you return alive, and we''ll talk about them." He patted her head.


    "Thank you." Remnya stared up, her eyes glistening with melancholy and hope. Being so close to Debrin, she perceived the faint scent of lavender lingering around him, the same one from his room.


    He leaned closer and ruffled her bangs tenderly. "Please, don''t die, Remnya," he whispered in her ear.


    Remnya felt a cold shiver running down her back. A mix of strange emotions invaded her body, and peace eased her soul, hearing his fatherly voice so close to her.


    "I-I won''t," she stuttered, holding back the stupid urge to hug him and cry in his chest.


    Silence.


    Debrin grinned awkwardly as if showing emotions was painful for him. "You should sleep now." He wiped a tear from her cheek.


    "Where are you gonna sleep, though?"


    "Don''t worry about it." He returned to his table to finish his meal.


    "I can sleep on the floor if you want."


    He shook his head.


    Remnya rolled her eyes. "Fine. . ." She turned and began walking away but stopped to look at him for one last time. "Goodnight, Debrin." Remnya beamed at him and darted away, waving.


    Debrin waved back at Remnya and watched her fade in the distance, along with the sounds of the night.


    . . .


    "You need to live. . . Crimson."


    *¡ã*¡ã*

 53: One Way Journey Home

    Zeo


    As the waves of life, voices echoed in the midnight of an everlasting dream. Sleepless nights, restless mornings. A caring touch, reaching the depths of a broken soul, trying to persuade a vacant mind.


    The same cycle, repeating itself, over and over.


    Like a curse, a burden, the weight upon sore shoulders.


    But death was never a choice.


    Once again, Zeo returned to hell. A familiar fiend who would not abandon his side.


    Through a slim opening of his right eye, Zeo glimpsed the blurred face of Maria. She pressed a cold, wet cloth against his head and murmured something through trembling lips.


    She looked like a lost angel, searching for her way home.


    "Maria," Zeo mumbled.


    "Don''t talk, please," Maria said in a soothing voice. She was kneeling next to him, dried tears on her cheeks and messy hair, the consequences of several sleepless nights.


    Zeo lay on a thin blanket, his back suffering the unyielding stone floor.


    Why am I still alive?


    Despite the torturous pain, he remained still and took a deep breath before gathering the strength to speak again. "Take a rest. I will be fine,"


    Maria didn''t seem to hear his voice and kept pressing the cloth against the left side of his face, where his left eye used to be.


    Zeo was cold and numb, his life worthless. He had paid the price of his actions. In the end, that was his fate.


    "This is just the beginning," Zeo said, "There''s no point in trying to help me."


    Maria stopped to look at him, her lavender eyes glistening with tears. "Am I supposed to let you die?"


    "I won''t die," Zeo said like a robot.


    Covering her face with blood-stained hands, Maria began sobbing again.


    Zeo grabbed her arm tightly. "I''ve not given up yet."


    Maria sniffled and wiped her tears with the back of her hand. "You were gone for twelve days. . ." she mumbled, her voice cracking. "This time, I truly thought you were. . ." She swallowed and shook her head before letting out a squeal of pain and frustration.


    "They won''t let me die. They need me." Zeo stared deeply into her pupils, witnessing the remains of a broken soul.


    Maria averted her eyes, her body shaking.


    Zeo caressed her arm and then took her hand between his. "I''m in no position to make promises right now, but," Zeo tightened his lips, holding back a grunt of pain. "I''ll do my best to get you out of here."


    Maria looked at him tenderly but deprived of life and hope and then returned an empty nod.


    His brain questioned his words. But deep down in his heart, Zeo knew it wasn''t over yet. Fate had kept him alive for a reason, and he would fulfill his goal before death.


    *¡ã*¡ã*


    In the morning, the pain had reduced.


    Zeo realized his body was quickly adapting to his one-eyed vision. He lay still on the ground staring blankly at the ceiling, wondering if Maria would ever get to see the stars again. She sat next to him, disinfecting the wound, now almost closed.


    Scanning Maria from head to toe, he understood such a gentle soul wasn''t meant for that world. He twisted his lips and reached for her hand, holding it close to his chest.


    Maria stared at him for a moment and then smiled. "Are you hungry?" she asked.


    "I''m good." Aided by his other arm, Zeo sat up, feeling his cranium on the verge of falling apart. "But you need to rest."


    "Zeo, you¡ª"


    "Don''t even say it," Zeo cut her off and scowled. "Rest. I need to exercise anyway. My body is still weak. I need to recover as soon as possible." He stood and stretched his arms and legs, ignoring the pain traveling from his head to the tip of his toes.


    Maria let out a sigh of resignation and nodded. Zeo knew she was at her limit; her pale face and trembling legs gave it away, and it was his fault. Self-loath devoured his insides since the day he woke up. The least he could do was to punish his pathetic self with training.


    She sat on a blanket in a corner and observed Zeo while he started doing push-ups. Her eyes were melancholy, yet her sweet expression brightened Zeo''s darkness.


    From then on, the days flew by with little to no words.


    Someone fed them twice a day through a hole in the door. Insipid meals Zeo never finished, hoping Maria would, but she just stared blankly at her plate, took two bites, and returned to her corner again.


    Their bathroom was the darkest side of the cage. Zeo had lost almost all sense of shame, but a lady like Maria still struggled. He would often pretend to be asleep to give her some privacy.


    Taking a shower happened once a week when someone shoved a hose through a hole in the door and shot icy cold water at them for one minute.


    At night, the nightmares became less frequent, as well as the dream of Remnya rescuing him. Zeo had accepted his fate and concluded Remnya shouldn''t return for him. She had to be happy, alone, and far from him.


    He had to follow his own path too. Alone.


    Alone.


    To keep his mind busy, Zeo trained nonstop every day until all his energy drained and he passed out from exhaustion. That was the best way not to think about the future and shut down his brain.


    Yet, intrusive, almost animal thoughts wandered his mind.


    Maria always watched him train. It seemed to calm her down. And he looked back at her.


    Zeo realized the isolation was playing tricks on his mind and body, injecting nasty ideas into his brain. Thoughts he had to murder before they became dangerous for him or for her.


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    Days became shorter, and the line between morning and night blurred. Even the memories of Rem began turning into a distant illusion.


    Rem had no reason to return for him.


    He had risked it all to save her. She couldn''t throw it all away.


    No.


    That would be stupid. Rem had to live her own life far from him.


    Far from him.


    He was on his own.


    . . .


    In the third week, Maria spoke again.


    "What will you do when you leave this place?" she asked, holding her bent knees against her chest.


    Zeo stared at her and searched in the void of his mind for an answer.


    There was none.


    "I''ll think about it when the time comes," Zeo said, stretching his neck before his daily training routine. "You?"


    Maria cracked a lifeless smile. "I''d love to have a normal life, for once and for all. That''s it."


    "You will." Zeo''s words meant nothing to him, but if they could lighten Maria''s soul for an ephemeral moment, he would spit those merciful lies.


    "When the Lady found me," Maria started. "I was just a little girl. Did I ever tell you I was raised in an orphanage too?"


    "I didn''t know that."


    Maria nodded. "I was around eleven when she adopted me. However, in the mansion, I was raised by her servants, yet the few times I could share a moment with the Lady, she showed me that she wasn''t the monster everyone thought."


    "Magenta lived her life for revenge," Zeo said, clenching his fists. "How many innocent people perished because of it?"


    "You''re right." Maria lowered her head. "I''m not justifying the horrible things she did, but to me, she was like the mother I never had. A mother who didn''t choose to be a monster." A tear trailed down her cheek. "I know all the pain she caused, but trust me, in the end, she did everything she could to save you both."


    Zeo stared at her for a moment, his gaze cold and numb. "It doesn''t matter." He began doing push-ups. "Whatever she wanted doesn''t matter. Just like whatever we want means nothing."


    "Zeo," Maria whispered, her voice trembling as she shook her head. "Don''t let it take over you, please. . ."


    Zeo chuckled bitterly, feeling how the shadows of his past embraced his heart with blood-stained hands.


    How naive and stupid can you be, Maria?


    There''s no more room for dreams anymore.


    There''s only misery.


    . . .


    No other word was spoken.


    *¡ã*¡ã*


    Remnya


    That night, Remnya tossed and turned in her bed for hours, thinking about all the possible mistakes that could lead to her death. Failing wasn''t an option; for them, she had to survive.


    When sleep finally arrived, birds already chirped outside.


    At 6 a.m, Debrin''s alarm clock blared in her ears.


    Her dilated pupils met the alpenglow of the morning, seeping into her room like a coral mist. Despite the lack of rest, she felt full of adrenaline, running through her veins like boiling water.


    Remnya sat on the bed, a bead of sweat rolling down her face. She looked out the window, seeing the morning star rising behind thick canopies.


    The unknown awaited.


    Despite the uncertainty in her heart, the thought of finding Brisa gave her the strength to stand up and walk forward. Remnya left the room and headed to the entrance door.


    As she stood outside, the cold breeze of the morning sent shivers down her spine. White smoke from dying campfires lingered in the forest like fog, with the smell of burnt wood.


    Everyone slept in their tents except for Vladimore, who stood unpacking boxes from an SUV parked under a tree.


    Remnya exhaled, filling her lungs with the fresh air, and walked toward a pile of firewood to prepare tea. With the tips of her fingers, she set the wood ablaze carefully not to turn everything into ashes.


    Vladimore glanced at her, his eyes displaying a hint of annoyance. "Girl! Stop wasting time and go to change your clothes right now. You can''t go wearing that attire."


    Remnya stood straight like a statue. "Yes, sir!" she rushed to say but realized she had no other clothes than her shirt and sweatpants. "What should else I wear, though?"


    The big man frowned and shoved his arm into the trunk of the SUV to grab a package. He tossed it at Remnya, who caught it mid-air and soon noticed its heaviness.


    Remnya stared at the package, tightly wrapped in plastic and thread. She nodded at Vladimore and bolted back to her room.


    Unwrapping the covers, Remnya found a uniform: a shirt with Kevlar protection around the torso, a black jacket made out of a strange material heavier than Kevlaar, and pants made from a lighter material, yet with a thick fiber that protected the crotch and joints.


    Remnya rushed to change, noticing the V-shaped emblem of Karx on the jacket''s shoulder. As Remnya adjusted the last piece, she realized her body had gained about ten kilos and struggled to move.


    "How can they wear these things?" Remnya grunted and tried to stretch her pants, but they felt like solid leather.


    Waddling out of her room, she bumped into Merle, who had just woken up.


    "Good morning." He beamed at her, the reek of alcohol punching her in the face.


    Remnya covered her mouth and nose. "Morning," she mumbled.


    "That uniform sure suits you!"


    "Thanks." Remnya tried to raise her arms but couldn''t and let out a sigh of frustration. "But, how can you move in these clothes?"


    Merle shrugged. "I forgot, I''ve not worn that in years. It''s very uncomfortable."


    "What?" Remnya''s jaw dropped. "Why do I have to wear it then?"


    "Because it''s part of your training." He smirked. "Plus, it can save your life, so get used to it."


    Remnya gritted her teeth, resignation filling her chest.


    "It''s not yet complete, though, so please wear these too." Merle handed her a pair of boots he had been hiding behind his back.


    When Remnya took them, the weight sent her to the ground. "WHAT IS THIS?"


    "Boots!"


    "What is this made of?" She struggled to pick them up and then scanned the materials. It looked like leather but felt solid, like a rock.


    "Aramix."


    Remnya stared at him, clueless.


    "It''s the same material as your jacket and pants. It is heat-resistant and extremely durable. It should be able to stand your fire."


    "That''s cool and all, but how am I supposed to move?"


    "You''ll have to figure it out, yourself." Merle''s merry expression turned into a serious one. "If you can''t do that, then you can''t come."


    Remnya swallowed and clenched her fists. "I can do it."


    "Good!" Merle messed up her hair. "I''ll meet you outside in ten minutes."


    He left, whistling a happy tune as his flip-flops slammed the floor.


    "I can do it. . . I know I can!" Remnya scowled and wore the boots, adjusting two metal locks around her feet.


    Fueled by sheer will and anger, she took the first step forward.


    The muscles of her legs felt like they were tearing apart, but she managed to move. Remnya knew she had to keep the fire burning in her chest if she wanted to stand a chance out there.


    "I know what you''re doing, old man," she murmured, clenching her teeth as she advanced. "You want me to give up before even trying." She buried her fingernails in her hands, sweat rolling down her forehead. "Well, screw that! I said I''d go, and I will!"


    When Remnya made it outside, her face was red like a tomato, and all the muscles of her body throbbed. The sweat on her face reflected the first sunbeams peeking from behind the mountains.


    Despite the pain, Remnya found herself smiling. It wouldn''t be easy, but nothing would break her spirit.


    "For you, Zeo, for you, Brisa, and for the ones who are not here anymore. I will do it for every one of you!"


    Remnya''s eyes glowed crimson once again as she took a confident step toward her fate.


    Strangely, her legs felt lighter.


    Merle smoked under a tree and drank from his liquor flask. As he noticed Remnya, a smile pulled at his lips. "Good job! It seems like you''re beginning to understand."


    "Understand what?" Remnya asked.


    "That you need to push your body to its limits to awaken its full potential."


    She sighed. "I wish I could control it better."


    "Give it time. The stronger your body gets, the more powerful the fire you''ll be able to use."


    Remnya nodded, cracking her knuckles. "Are we leaving soon?"


    "Yeah, just allow me to finish my breakfast." Merle chugged his liquor, emptying the flask quickly.


    Remnya shook her head and wondered how such a person had survived so long.


    "Is Debrin awake? I want to say goodbye."


    "Debrin left earlier this morning."


    "Oh. . ." Remnya lowered her head and twisted her lips.


    "Honestly, I don''t know where he is. That fool enjoys solitude way too much." Merle shrugged. "It''s annoying."


    "Perhaps a mission?"


    "That''s likely." Merle dropped his flask over a bush, where ten more piled together. "We''ll clean this mess when we return." He began walking toward the main road.


    "Are we going by car?" Remnya asked as her heart raced in her chest, fearing the answer.


    Merle guffawed. "No, why would we? We''re going by foot." He pointed at two massive travel bags sitting next to the SUV.


    Remnya''s jaw dropped. "How many kilometers do we have to Crysalton?"


    "Over one thousand." He smirked and pointed at two large travel bags by the car. "Pick those up. All our supplies are in there, so keep them safe."


    Remnya swallowed through a closed throat and tested the weight of the bags with her foot.


    I won''t let you win, old man. I will go with you no matter what!


    She picked up the heavy baggage on her back and forced her boots to move. A long journey awaited her, but deep inside, her chest itched with joy and hope.


    Brisa, wait for me.


    And Zeo.


    I''ve not given up on you yet.


    Please, don''t give up on me, either.


    *¡ã*¡ã*


    <u>Next Chapter</u>: November 23

 54: A Cruel Joke

    Remnya


    The morning sun warmed up Remnya''s cheeks, and sweat itched on her whole body. The thick, heavy fabric of her clothes had turned every step into a challenge, keeping the heat trapped in her torso like an oven. Merle strode ahead of her, whistling as he crossed through a field of sharp rocks that threatened to slice the flesh of whoever dared to stumble. He had purposely taken the steeper path, bordering a cliff with loose soil and deadly pits.


    Thorns and branches had marked Remnya''s exposed skin, drawing red stripes on her face. She gripped trees and vines not to fall to her doom and eyed two hawks circling a nearby corpse; animal or not, she didn''t know.


    After six hours of uninterrupted walking, Merle stopped next to a mountain creek.


    Remnya exhaled a mouthful of fresh air and staggered toward a rotten log buried in moss. She dropped the bags she carried on her back and eased onto the ground, allowing her body to recover while she wiped the sweat from her forehead.


    Merle opened a flask of liquor he carried in his pocket and took a sip. "Nothing like some fresh drink before lunch." He smiled.


    Catching her breath, Remnya nodded vacantly at his nonsense, feeling her head lighter and all her muscles throbbing like a heart.


    "There''s no time to rest." Merle scowled and pointed at their travel bags. "You need to prepare lunch."


    "What?" Remnya said, feeling her entire body on the verge of passing out.


    "You said you could cook, didn''t you?" Merle''s expression filled with annoyance.


    A burning sensation grew in Remnya''s chest as frustration and anger tried to erupt from her mouth, but she remained quiet. After all, he was right; she had chosen that of her own free will. Dragging herself toward the bags, Remnya looked for something edible, but all she could find were a pan, a pot, and silver tableware.


    "Where''s the food?" she asked, her heart racing in her chest, predicting the answer.


    "That''s your job." Merle glared at her menacingly. "If you can''t even do that, you better run home, kid." His words cut deep into her skin.


    A shiver ran down Remnya''s back as her illusion shattered. She couldn''t recognize the friendly man she had met at Debrin''s house anymore. Remnya clenched her fists, biting her lower lip as she forced herself to remain silent. In her frustration, she imagined one of those rocks hitting his face. The kid from the past would have done something reckless, but not this Remnya. Swallowing her anger, she lowered her head, nodded, and took the first step into the forest to find food.


    Accompanied by the song of birds, Remnya wandered for a while until Merle''s scowl vanished in the distance. Looking left and right to ensure no one watched her, she unfastened her heavy boots and kicked them off her feet. Her toes were red and swollen, and blisters had formed around her ankles. The next thing was removing her jacket and pants. Remnya let out a exhale of relief when her body could finally feel the fresh air of nature.


    Hanging her clothes on a low tree branch, she noticed how light her body had become. Remnya explored her surroundings, looking for fruits or mushrooms to cook, but all she could find were wild blackberries that caused diarrhea. The temptation to pick them up and feed them to Merle was strong, but she decided otherwise.


    Not daring to go any further wearing just her underwear, she put on her pants again and broke into the denser part of the forest barefoot. Birds, snakes, and squirrels seemed like the only source of food. However, Remnya had never killed an animal nor was willing to change that, not even if Merle ordered her to do so.


    Remnya walked for half an hour when she noticed smoke in the distance. Halting behind a bush, Remnya remained still with her eyes focused on the source of that smoke. Unintelligible voices reached her ears along with the smell of burning incense, irritating her nose. Despite her curiosity, getting closer would mean an unnecessary risk, so she decided to return.


    Dry leaves crunched.


    "Don''t move."


    Remnya froze as a young voice echoed behind her.


    From the corner of her eyes, she glimpsed a boy around Zeo''s age with a bow, aiming a golden arrow at her head. "DEMON! I FOUND A DEMON!" he screamed at the top of his lungs. "HURRY UP!"


    "What? That''s not true!" Remnya tried to silence him, but as soon as she moved, the boy pulled the bowstring even further, ready to shoot her.


    Her body became paralyzed. The boy''s fingers trembled, yet the deadly glare in his dilated pupils revealed his killer intent.


    "Listen. I am not your enemy," Remnya said, doing her best to sound as calm and friendly as possible, but his expression displayed deep hatred as if in the presence of a monster. "I am not a demon and don''t want to hurt you. I got lost, and all I want is to go home. You gotta believe me."


    He chuckled bitterly. "Demons with horns always say the same shit." His hazel eyes flickered under the sunlight. "But I''m not stupid. I won''t make the same mistake as my father."


    "I am sorry my kind has caused so much harm, but I am honest when I say I have nothing to do with them."


    "Shut up." He smirked, glancing left toward the smoke. Remnya overhead steps, drawing nearer. "My village will be overwhelmed with joy when I return with a demon''s head."


    "Wait!" Remnya shouted, her eyes widening with fear.


    The boy''s hands moved on their own, pulling the bowstring violently while his gaze penetrated Remnya''s soul with fury.


    He shot the arrow, and the time slowed.


    Silence.


    A crimson flashed across the forest.


    And the heat in her chest erupted through her skin.


    What she witnessed afterward froze her blood.


    The arrow aimed at her head had turned into ashes, and the boy in front of her, shrieked in horror as his arms were engulfed by crimson flames. His skin hissed and began to melt while he ran desperately, trying to put it out.


    Instinctively, Remnya summoned her fire back to her hands. The flames vanished, but the boy''s arms had turned into roasted flesh that boiled and smoked like embers. He collapsed on the ground, convulsing with his eyes twisted into nothingness.


    Everything moved in slow motion as Remnya ran to him. The reek of burnt flesh and hair triggered the horrible memories of her past. From Persen to Skado, and their screams of terror when the crimson monster devoured them slowly.


    This text was taken from Royal Road. Help the author by reading the original version there.


    Shouts and curses in the distance alerted Remnya of the presence of more people. A horde of men advanced in her direction with guns, bows, and torches.


    Remnya had two choices: staying and risking getting killed or running. The decision seemed easy, but her heart didn''t allow her to move away from the boy she had hurt accidentally. Remnya kneeled beside him, holding his burnt body while the mob surrounded her.


    "Cursed demon! We''re too late!" an old man said, aiming a shotgun at her head.


    "I didn''t mean to do this. . ." she murmured, shaking. "He attacked me. . . I didn''t want to!"


    "DIE, DEMON!"


    The man shot.


    A crimson silence invaded her mind.


    *¡ã*¡ã*


    Zeo


    The mornings were a cold, timeless routine. Metallic noises echoed throughout the lifeless corridors, cell doors opening one by one, interrupted by the cries of a lost soul, quickly silenced by the mercy of a fist or the edge of a sword. A pointless fight in the jaws of a demon, a never-ending battle an Anglish couldn''t win.


    Life had always been a cruel joke.


    Sleepless, Zeo sat on the gelid floor, staring vacantly at the blood-stained walls. On the opposite corner, Maria still rested, trembling, and wrapped by two blankets. Like two caged animals, their fates belonged to someone else. They were puppets, dancing to the tides of anger and melancholy; a crude reality Zeo had come to embrace with spite.


    A shadow obscured the light coming through the gaps in the door. Had they finally decided to end their misery?


    Silence.


    "It''s purge season. Comply with their requests, and don''t fight if you want to keep her alive."


    That was Alayna''s voice. Springing from the ground, Zeo dragged himself toward the door. "What do you mean?" he asked, leaning against the metal, but Alayna was already gone. Only a soft breeze remained, sneaking through the door cracks to caress his bruised skin.


    After that, the minutes felt like hours for Zeo, who waited to discover the truth behind her words. Why would she even care about them?


    She was his enemy.


    . . .


    Or was she?


    The truth wasn''t clear anymore.


    A loud beep drilled into his ears. The locks clanked one by one, and the door opened for the first time in four weeks.


    On the other side, a silhouette emerged amid dust and fog. Zeo recognized the face of the same Nephilim who tortured that young man in the dungeon. Listening to the murmurs of the walls, Zeo had learned his name was Pyon, the beast who had taken thirty lives in the past week.


    His sole presence filled their cell with the reek of death.


    Next to the Nephilim stood a massive man in a violet suit. Short blonde hair and a smirk that emanated ill intentions. Zeo scanned him and spotted two small horns sprouting from his head. However, there was no tail.


    A hybrid.


    Pyon walked forward, ignoring Zeo. His eyes searched for someone else.


    "Is she the one?" the man in the suit asked, caressing his chin as he looked at a sleeping Maria.


    "Yeah, that''s the human," the Nephilim said, walking toward her.


    "What''s the meaning of this?" Zeo said, standing on guard with both fists clenched.


    Pyon glanced at Zeo with contempt. "Stay quiet if you want to keep your remaining eye, crossbreed." He stomped toward Maria and grabbed her blankets, yanking them away to uncover her body. Before she could wake up, he took her by the torso with his massive hands, lifting her like a rag doll.


    "What''s going on?" Maria screamed, shooting terrified glances in every direction, his pupils dilated.


    "Brand new human, good behavior, groomed by Lady Magenta herself," Pyon said as a disgusting smile spread across his face.


    "Leave her alone!" Zeo roared, charging at Pyon with his fists, ready to strike him.


    But before Zeo could reach the Nephilim, his body was slammed against the wall, cracking the concrete. From the corner of his eye, Zeo witnessed Edo holding him with brutal force.


    "Calm down, or it''ll be much worse for her. Don''t be stupid!" Edo shouted, glaring at him as he buried his nails into his skin.


    "Oh, fuck you!" Zeo spat, summoning his vectors with the sheer will of his rage. Two spectral arms emerged from the ground beneath Edo and snatched his legs.


    He released Zeo and smashed a fist against his jaw.


    The cell spun around Zeo as his body rolled and hit the unyielding floor. Yet his vectors refused to release his enemy. A powerful electric wave traveled from his brain and throughout his body, focusing on his vectors to crush Edo''s bones.


    Zeo sprung from the floor and tried to land a punch in Edo''s face.


    Edo dodged it, staggering due to the pressure around his legs.


    A second strike by Zeo reached his cheekbone.


    However, Edo took advantage of his uncoordinated movements to wrap his arms around Zeo''s neck, oppressing his throat.


    The vectors cut through Edo''s skin, but oxygen had begun to leave Zeo''s lungs rapidly. Despite his fury, reality blurred before his eyes as hypoxia threatened to shut his brain. Driven by his wildest instincts, Zeo bit Edo''s forearm.


    His enemy let out a muffled grunt of pain and tightened the grip around his neck even more. Zeo''s bones cracked, and his spine felt on the verge of breaking.


    Without oxygen and close to losing consciousness, the vectors loosened, giving Edo time to break free and crush Zeo''s jaw with an uppercut.


    Zeo hit the ground, half unconscious.


    "The crossbreed is a tough bastard, isn''t he?" Pyon sneered and released Maria, who dragged herself to Zeo''s side.


    "Zeo! Please resist!" Maria shouted desperately, caressing his face with trembling fingers.


    "Maria. . ." Zeo mumbled. "I won''t let them take you away."


    "Sorry for the inconvenience, Mr. Carlsen," the Nephilim said, gesturing at Edo to hold Zeo. "As you can see, this crossbreed here has grown attached to his human."


    "I can see that." The man giggled as he scanned Maria from head to toe with lustful eyes. "She seems like a fine specimen. No wonder this boy is willing to die for her."


    "She''s a bit dirty and unhealthy right now, but I think you''ll be able to take care of that."


    "Don''t worry, Lieutenant. I can still see her beauty through all that shit and dust." He licked his lips.


    Edo crushed Zeo''s body against the floor while Maria pleaded with them to leave him alone. Glaring at Edo, Zeo noticed his enemy''s uniform had changed. It was no longer black but brown and had been stripped from all its badges and emblems.


    "Edo!" the Nephilim shouted. "Bring that human here right now! We need to deliver at least twenty today."


    Edo bared his teeth. "Since when do you follow the orders of a crossbreed, Pyon?" He stared at Carlsen with contempt.


    "Lieutenant Pyon for you!" Pyon snatched a whip from his belt and struck Edo across the face. He glared and pointed at Maria. "Do it, unless you want to lose your remaining hand, fucking cunt." He wiggled his fingers mockingly.


    A trail of blood rolled down Edo''s cheek. He clenched his fists and lowered his head, the veins in his forehead bulging with rage. Hesitantly, he took his remote control from his pocket and activated Zeo''s collar.


    A shock exploded throughout Zeo''s body as the needles in the collar penetrated his neck, paralyzing and cramping all his muscles. He contorted on the ground, unable to move his body on his own. Yet he kept fighting the pain to protect Maria, who sobbed next to him and begged them to stop.


    Edo grabbed Maria by the arm and dragged her away from Zeo. "Please, stop it!" she pleaded, tears rolling down her cheeks. "Don''t hurt him anymore. I''ll do anything!"


    "Shut up, bitch!" Pyon roared, glaring at her. "You have no idea how lucky you are. Most humans here are disposed of as a residue of flesh and bones, but Mr. Carlsen considers you worth buying. He''ll give you a better life. That''s more than you deserve, pathetic human."


    Maria kneeled in front of them and sobbed in silence, trembling. She crossed her fingers, begging them. "I''ll go with you, but please, don''t hurt Zeo anymore. Please! If you still have a heart. . ."


    Pyon and Carlsen exchanged looks and then guffawed at her stupid words, their voices booming throughout the cell. However, Edo''s face was cold stone, his gaze locked on the ground. Pyon reached out for a knife in his belt and tossed it at Edo, who caught it mid-air. "If that bitch speaks again, slice her tongue," he said.


    "Hey!" Carlsen widened his eyes.


    Edo gritted his teeth and stood still like a statue for long seconds. His fists trembled as if trying to hold back his true intentions: murdering the two men in front of him. But eventually, he kneeled next to Maria and murmured something in her ear. Maria nodded while her tears flowed like a waterfall, soaking her ruined dress.


    He stretched his hand at Maria. Reluctantly, she took it and eased herself from the floor. Maria stared at Zeo for the last time, her beautiful eyes deprived of life and hope, and followed Edo.


    Zeo let out a monstrous roar of anger, pain, and frustration witnessing the scene and forced his arms to drag his body toward them. Electric shocks attacked his heart and brain, yet he refused to give her up.


    I have to protect Maria. . .


    I HAVE TO! I HAVE TO!


    With his last ounce of strength, he summoned a single vector and shoved it against Pyon.


    Blood spilled in the air, splattering the walls.


    . . .


    His energy was suddenly gone.


    Pyon stepped in front of him, his black eyes burning with fury. "You''re a persistent one, aren''t you?"


    A fist heavy like iron crushed his jaw, spinning his head. Zeo felt his neck breaking and then his body shutting down.


    He collapsed, and the last image in his mind was three monsters and a sweet, broken soul.


    I''m sorry, Maria. . . I''ve failed again.


    *¡ã*¡ã*


    <u>Next Chapter</u>: November 26

 55: A Soul And A Warrior

    Remnya


    A blast echoed through the forest.


    Several flocks of birds rose to the sky, urgency in their wings as they vanished behind the clouds. The forest fell still, and silence filled the atmosphere like a dense mist, accompanied by the reek of blood and burnt flesh.


    The glowing projectiles of a shotgun cut the air, searching for Remnya''s head.


    Time slowed as the faces of Zeo and Brisa flashed in her mind; if she died, all those dreams would come to an end. She had made it so far, and the weight of her promises rested on her sore shoulders.


    No matter what, she couldn''t give it up yet. Even if it meant going against her convictions, she had to survive.


    Remnya gritted her teeth, hating herself for what she was forced to do. Crimson engulfed her hands and quickly spread through her body.


    On the verge of tears, she waited for the right moment to retaliate.


    . . .


    Yet, the impact of that gun never arrived.


    . . .


    A shriek of pain blared in her ears, followed by a violent gush of wind that brushed her burning hair against her face, sparks floating before her eyes.


    Silence.


    When time resumed its natural flow, a trembling Remnya turned to witness the events unfolding behind her back. Three men lay still on the ground, their guns buried in the grass. Next to them, the massive figure of Merle loomed over their lifeless bodies.


    Placing her hands on the burnt soil, Remnya pushed herself to her feet. Her heart raced in her chest as her dilated pupils searched for answers.


    "That was close," Merle said, cracking his knuckles.


    "What happened?" Remnya mumbled, locking her eyes on the corpses.


    "Isn''t it obvious?" He raised an eyebrow, giving her the look of a disappointed father. "Only that kid is left." Merle took one step toward the unconscious boy and raised his right fist.


    "NO!" Remnya shouted, standing with open arms between him and the boy.


    "That kid saw what you did. If we allow him to live, he''ll spread the word, and then what do you think will happen?"


    "Still!" Remnya panted heavily, trying to calm her heart. "Why did you have to kill them?"


    "We can not afford to let fanatics like these live. Especially, not today."


    "Fanatics?"


    "These deviants belong to a cult called The Last Order. They believe Nephilims are the spawns of Lucifer on Earth." He laughed mockingly and shook his head. "These assholes attack savagely whoever has horns."


    "Can you blame them?" Remnya clenched her fists and stared at the unconscious boy. "Our kind has caused so much pain."


    "Innocent or guilty, they''ll attack any Nephilim or Hybrid who dare cross their path. Plus, allowing them to live means the word about us spreading to nearby villages like wildfire. It''d be just a matter of time for The Hunters to find us." He folded his arms and looked down his nose at her. "Are you willing to take that risk, little Remnya?"


    "Even if that''s true, killing them is wrong!" she yelled, her eyes glowing with anger and frustration. "How are we different from them if we just kill anyone who we deem as too dangerous to live?"


    "Would you risk Brisa''s life because of your beliefs?"


    "I. . ." Remnya swallowed and lowered her head, out of words. Even though her heart knew what she wanted, reality had never given her a chance to decide. Remnya was tired of seeing blood spilled wherever she went. That wasn''t the path she wanted to follow; that wasn''t the world her parents would''ve wished for her. She had to be better. . . for them.


    "Listen," Merle stood next to her and leaned his heavy hand on her shoulder. "I understand how you feel, but unfortunately, things can''t always be the way we would''ve wanted. This whole mission will fail if we allow any of them to live."


    "If I hadn''t been stupid enough to step into their territory, they would still be alive," Remnya murmured, her lips trembling as a lump closed her throat.


    "True, and perhaps they would''ve found an innocent Hybrid girl and murdered her instead of you." Merle walked over to one of the corpses and kneeled next to it. "Come, take a look."


    Remnya hesitated, the reek of death revolting her stomach. Yet, she knew she had to face reality, no matter how terrible or cruel it was. Dreams were just dreams, and nightmares were her loyal companion. Remnya dragged her feet toward the scene and stared at the lifeless eyes of a bearded man; he reminded her of the soldier Zeo had killed that night.


    Merle snatched a necklace from the man''s neck, severing the chain, and showed it to Remnya. "What do you see?" he asked, displaying two tiny horns that hung from the chain, much smaller than hers yet unmistakable. "Nephilim horns." Merle''s expression darkened. "How do you think they got them?"


    Remnya dropped to her knees and shook her head, refusing to believe the sight. Covering her face with both hands, she spoke through gritted teeth. "Why would they do this? Those horns are barely the size of my friend Amy''s horns."


    "People do horrible things out of fear or greed." Merle shook his head. "The size clearly reveals these horns belonged to a child not older than two. It''s easier to end a Nephilim''s life when they are still babies, after all." He narrowed his eyes, inspecting the necklace more closely. "Though, these didn''t belong to a Nephilim. The round shape and brown color show they belonged to a Hybrid baby."


    A cold shiver ran down Remnya''s back. She squeezed her eyes shut and buried her nails into her skin. "When will this madness end? When?"


    "I don''t know." Before the corpses, Merle sat next to Remnya and patted her head. "But I do know what we must do."


    They remained silent for a long moment.


    "Debrin and I have had enough of this shit. We will take The Hunters down and change the fate and reputation of our kind." He messed up her hair tenderly, his gaze lost into the horizon. "However, you need to understand that in order to protect those who need it the most, we must sacrifice a lot of things."


    "Is that true?" Remnya lifted her eyes at him, her pupils flickering with fear and an ounce of hope. "Ending The Hunters will put an end to this endless cycle of violence? Will it?" Deep in her soul, she wished the answer was so simple, yet she knew that wasn''t true.


    "No." Merle''s voice was a cold sword of honesty. His eyes locked on hers. "But it will be a beginning. The Hunters will go down, and so will Karx."


    This tale has been unlawfully lifted from Royal Road. If you spot it on Amazon, please report it.


    "What?" Remnya widened her eyes, the whole forest falling still.


    "Karx and The Hunters are two sides of the same coin, Remnya. Nephilims, Hybrids, and Humans. The powerful fighting each other, while the innocent suffer under the crossfire." Merle narrowed his eyes. "We''ll put an end to this pointless war."


    His words echoed in the back of her head over and over, slowly forcing their way into her mind. She took a moment to process his revelation but couldn''t decipher its meaning. "All I ever wanted was to protect my friends, my family. . ." Remnya murmured, her voice trembling and tears welling up in her eyes. "I never wanted to hurt anyone. . . I never hated anyone. . ." A tear trailed down her cheek as she lifted her gaze at Merle. "If there''s a single, a small, chance to put an end to so much suffering. . . I want to do it. For Zeo, for Brisa, for everyone."


    "The journey will be long, and the road will be tough." Merle stood up and stretched his hand at her. "But remember you''re not alone, Remnya."


    Remnya tightened her lips, bobbed her head, and took his hand, easing herself from the ground. "I understand," she said and turned to the boy lying on the ground. "Yet. . ." She walked over to him and stared at his unconscious face, now deprived of hatred. "Yet I can''t go against what I believe." Words escaped her mouth sharply. "I want to walk this path, I really do! And I will never give up on my journey, but. . ."


    Remnya narrowed her eyes and stared deep into Merle''s cold gaze. "I''ll never betray my heart nor those who fought for me. I am sorry if I am stupid and naive but, the least I can do is taking this kid, who hates me so much, to a hospital and give him a chance at life. Don''t worry, I won''t ask you to help me. I want to do it myself."


    Merle''s expression darkened for a moment, but quickly his scowl turned into a smile full of pride. "As expected of you!" He chuckled. "I guess it can''t be helped then. We''ll drop him at our next stop in Andras Village. They have a nice hospital and great inns to stay at."


    "Are you serious?" Her jaw dropped.


    "Of course!"


    A faint smile forced its way across Remnya''s face. "Thank you. . ."


    Merle messed up her hair and stomped over to the boy. He picked him up over his shoulder and looked at Remnya. "Go retrieve your uniform from that tree, and I don''t care if you didn''t get any rest." He smirked. "Break time is over."


    Clenching her fists, Remnya bobbed her head, savoring her small victory, and bolted toward the spot where she had left her clothes.


    As she neared the tree, something on the ground caught her attention. Remnya took her jacket and boots from the branches and observed the package lying on the soil: a lunch box. Remnya took it between her hands and rushed to open it. Inside, she found a pumpkin pie with a note that read: ''Crimson eyes, don''t die yet. DK.''


    Remnya stifled a chuckle as her heart filled with a warm sensation. "Thank you," she whispered, adjusting her uniform, ready to continue her journey. Despite her sore muscles and exhausted mind, Remnya felt she was capable of much more.


    The hopes and dreams of many rested on her shoulders, and the fire in her heart still burned with the same fiery flame those she loved had fed.


    *¡ã*¡ã*


    Zeo


    Zeo woke up to the blinding lights of massive lamps towering over him atop metal pillars. He lay in the middle of an iron platform, surrounded by dense fog so cold it froze his bones and numbed the pain from his wounds.


    Staggering, he stood up and witnessed the horizon fading ahead of him into the lingering night sky. The humidity in the atmosphere filled his lungs, along with the faint scent of dust and burnt coal.


    He inspected his surroundings aimlessly, his worn shoes echoing against the floor, quickly replaced by an eerie silence.


    . . .


    "Did you sleep well?" a familiar voice whispered behind him.


    . . .


    Zeo turned toward the source of that sound.


    Marakudra emerged amidst the fog, droplets soaking her uniform and buckled hair. With a confident smile plastered across her face, she advanced in his direction. Zeo flinched and lifted his clenched fists, locking his pupil on hers. Mara chuckled at his reaction and halted to scan his punished body.


    "Do you understand the only reason you''re still alive is because of me, right?" she said, folding her arms and twisting her thick lips.


    "Should I thank you?" Zeo replied bitterly.


    She giggled. "Unlike the stupid dogs under my command, I can see beyond trivial matters such as your inbreed nature." Mara winked at him and smirked. "I hadn''t seen a crossbreed with so much potential in years. You put up quite a fight against Edo and Pyon, and from the records my men gathered, you killed that inbreed son of Persen, Skado Doman. Is that correct?"


    "Why does it matter?" Zeo narrowed his eye and loosened his fists, unable to perceive the reek of death in her.


    "A specimen like you would be of much better use alive than dead. I don''t give a shit if my men are Nephilims, Crossbreeds, or Humans. Resources are resources." Marakudra sauntered over to Zeo, who stood still, holding his breath until she was right in front of him. She was one head taller than Zeo, and her upper arms were muscular and massive. Mara leaned forward, her irritating perfume of peaches burning Zeo''s nostrils. "Do you want to save Maria, don''t you?" she whispered in his ear.


    Zeo widened his eye as his heart skipped a beat at her words. "Where''s Maria? Didn''t they take her away?"


    Marakudra giggled and caressed Zeo''s cheek tenderly with her fingertips. "She''s safe for now, but her fate depends on you."


    Zeo leaned away from her touch and scowled. "What do you want from me?"


    "Zeo Azlanin," Marakudra started, her voice deepening and her eyes penetrating through his soul. "Half-Anglish, Half-Human. Fifteen years old, with the unique ability to manipulate the infamous Anglish''s Vectors." She made a pause and straightened her back. "I want you to swear loyalty to me, right here, right now."


    Her words paralyzed Zeo''s whole body, and time seemed to slow down. He swallowed through a closed throat and lowered his gaze, staggered and conflicted by her request.


    "If you accept my proposal, I''ll grant you Maria''s property, a nice room for yourself, servants, and more importantly, the status of a Hunter Soldier, the highest position most crossbreeds could only dream of." Marakudra placed her hand on his shoulder and leaned forward, her nose touching his. "What do you say?"


    Zeo gathered the strength to speak, cold sweat rolling down his forehead. "What about Debrin Kavram? I am not going to reveal¡ª"


    "I don''t care about that anymore," Marakudra cut him off. "We already located Debrin Kavram and his army." She beamed at him, a shimmer of gold sparkling in her fangs.


    Shivers ran down Zeo''s back like the cold hands of death. His heart kicked violently in his chest as he clenched his fists and thought of Remnya''s beautiful smile.


    Giving up his soul in exchange for an ounce of hope seemed like the easiest choice.


    He could save Maria from hell.


    And from the inside, he could find a new way to protect Remnya.


    Though, selling his will and dignity to those demons meant the beginning of a path with no return.


    A one-way journey to hell.


    Innocent lives would perish at his hand if she ordered her so.


    She would be the owner of his life and death.


    "What do you say, Zeo?" Marakudra''s voice echoed in the depths of his mind.


    What was the price of his soul?


    How selfish and stupid could he be to reject such an offer?


    . . .


    Despite the war in his mind, Zeo had always known the answer.


    . . .


    My fate. . .


    . . . never belonged to me until now.


    . . .


    Zeo nodded.


    "I accept."


    Zeo nodded again.


    "I accept this proposal."


    Zeo nodded a third time.


    "This is my fate."


    Marakudra beamed at him, her coffee eyes sparkling with the joy of someone who had won without spilling a single drop of blood. "Kneel and swear."


    Without questioning her request, Zeo kneeled. The face of Remnya popped up in the darkness of his soul, but he fought it away. Burying his nails into his skin, Zeo grimaced with anger and pain.


    Leave me alone, Remnya. . . You don''t fucking need me anymore."


    GO AWAY!


    I DON''T FUCKING NEED YOU!


    GO AWAY AND LIVE YOUR OWN LIFE AWAY FROM ME!


    Tears welled up in Zeo''s eye, burning his skin as they rolled down his bruised cheek, sliding into his wounds.


    We were never meant to be together. . .


    "Go away, please. . ." Zeo murmured and leaned forward, grabbing Marakudra''s boot between his hands.


    He kissed it. "My soul belongs to you, Captain."


    Marakudra gestured at him to stand up.


    Zeo took a moment to gather the strength to look at her new fate and then rose like a new man.


    Mara held his face in her hands tightly and wiped his tears with her fingertips. "This is your fate, Zeo Azlanin. Welcome aboard." Marakudra kissed his forehead, her lips cold and sticky, leaving a trail of saliva on his skin. "Give me your hand."


    Zeo stretched his hand at her, his mind a void in his brain. Marakudra sliced his wrist with her sharp claws, drawing blood. She proceeded to do the same with her wrist, opening a small cut for her thick blood to flow out. Mara rubbed her blood with his, and Zeo felt his whole arm burning like fire.


    Like Remnya''s fire.


    His head felt light, and his body staggered backward, only stopped by Marakudra, who held him tightly. "You need to rest now," she whispered in his ear. "When you wake up, everything will be over."


    Like a robot, Zeo nodded and allowed his exhausted body and mind to collapse in her arms, knowing neither his soul nor his heart belonged to Remnya anymore.


    *¡ã*¡ã*


    <u>Next Chapter</u>: November 30

 56: Silent Killer

    Remnya


    The shadow of a Redwood tree loomed over Remnya, who sat atop a hill observing the village of Andras above the horizon. A hummingbird hovered over her head while she ate her pumpkin pie and hummed a sad song. Merle had gone ahead, promising to leave the boy at the hospital while she rested. However, he had ordered her to meet him at the village square before sunset.


    Remnya finished her meal and planted the remaining pumpkin seeds into the ground. She took a deep breath, stretching her arms and legs, and then put on the cap Merle had given her to hide her horns. Lastly, she shoved her jacket into one of the travel bags and rolled up her tail under her pants.


    The road ahead was a downhill dirt path, squeezed by farmlands where cows and sheep roamed freely. Having rested, Remnya felt her body full of energy again, and the cozy sight of nature helped her calm her mind and heart. She walked for half an hour until the village entrance rose in the distance.


    Andras was smaller than her hometown, yet elegant and tidy, with rustic buildings and paved streets. People looked modest and hardened by agricultural labor, but most wore a smile on their faces, something she wasn''t used to seeing. The only sounds in the village belonged to street merchants selling fruits, meat, and strange handicrafts, accompanied by the occasional roar of some old car that drove by without a destination.


    Out of curiosity, Remnya approached a nearby vendor to check his items. Rune necklaces crafted with beautiful stones, gold and silver rings, and fancy earrings sparkling like stars, among other things, lay over a red velvet carpet.


    A man with white hair like snow locked his droopy eyes on her and smiled. "Welcome, young lady! Are you looking for something? We have a beautiful collection of garnets that would sure go great with your eyes."


    "Hello!" Remnya said, scanning the jewelry with embedded stones that shone like a rainbow under the sunlight. However, she looked for something else, a cursed item made out of death and bones. Remnya needed to know if the villagers shared the same customs as those monsters. "I am looking for something." She paused, gathering the strength to push the words out of her mouth. "Do you have. . . horns?"


    The man''s smile faded as he furrowed his eyebrows. "What kind of horns?"


    "Small horns," Remnya murmured.


    Silence.


    "Like animal horns?" He twisted his lips, wrinkles spreading through his face. "Or Nephilim horns?"


    Remnya took a moment to process his question and nodded. "Nephilim horns."


    He folded his arms and bore his pupils into her. "Sorry, young lady. I think you''re asking the wrong person. Not only that''s illegal, but it''s also a grave sin against the Lord." He scowled. "Why are you interested in such a thing?"


    "I am not!" Remnya rushed to say, feeling stupid for even asking about it. "I was, uh. . ." An idea popped up in her head. "Doing my research for school. . . Yeah! That''s it!"


    "School?" The man scanned her from head to toe and raised an eyebrow. "You''re not from around here, are you?" He made a long pause, and then, his eyes widened like two moons. "Oh! I beg your pardon, young lady. I hadn''t noticed it until now." He bowed to her. "You must be the daughter of one of the overlords of Crysalton."


    "What?" Remnya blinked with confusion.


    "Aren''t you part of the commission of Crysalton that arrived last month?"


    "I. . ." She hesitated. "I am not."


    "Oh, my apologies then." The man let out a sigh of relief and wiped the sweat from his forehead. "Forgive this silly old man. I''ve been worrying way too much about my first interaction with the overlords."


    "Don''t worry." Remnya forced a smile. "But who are they? I just arrived here today."


    "The well-dressed men with horns and luxurious cars. If you happen to run into them, you''ll recognize them immediately. Rumors claim they were sent by the government of the Capital to watch over the rising cases of attacks on horned people."


    Remnya''s pupils dilated, hearing his words. "Is that all they are here for?"


    "I''m not sure, but ever since they arrived, the crime rate has dropped dramatically, and the most dangerous criminals have. . . well, disappeared." The man grinned, a hint of hope in his eyes.


    "Really?" Remnya tightened her lips, confusion invading her mind. "Haven''t they caused any problem? I''ve heard they''re dangerous."


    He shook his head. "Not at all. In fact, we''re glad they''re here. My daughter can walk the streets without the fear of being attacked by some drunk bastard, robber, or worse, a rapist. They were everywhere not long ago."


    Remnya stood still, staring vacantly at the jewelry in front of her. Was that man speaking the truth?


    "You probably came from a big city and might not be familiar with this place, but the situation used to be pretty bad. We thank those men for what they''ve done for us. If I have to honest, the only ones you should be afraid of are those criminals from the forest." The old man leaned closer and whispered in her ear, "Karx."


    "Karx?" Remnya asked, widening her eyes.


    The man gasped and gestured with his hands for her to lower her voice. "Please, young lady, don''t mention them here. They''re dangerous criminals who have only caused pain and destruction."


    "That''s not true." Remnya scowled at him. "The Hunters are the ones behind the biggest crimes."


    "The Hunters?" he asked cluelessly. "I don''t know who these Hunters are, but I do know the wild men with V-shaped tattoos are wicked beasts." The old man narrowed his eyes. "I lost my wife to one of their raids, and they almost took my daughter the last time. Not to mention the number of friends who have lost their lives because of them."


    "Karx?" Remnya repeated, refusing to believe his words, but the man''s eyes revealed honesty and pain. Remnya knew those eyes; they were the ones of someone who had lost half of his life. She clenched her fists as guilt tore her insides. "I am sorry about all that, mister."


    "You have nothing to be sorry for, young lady. All this must be new for you. Forgive this silly old man for rambling about himself. I didn''t mean to scare you either." He bowed to her and grabbed a silver necklace from a shelf behind him. "Please, accept this as part of my people''s welcome present."


    "I can''t, mister." Remnya shook her head. "It''s my fault. I was asking dumb questions." She laughed nervously. "I''m sorry for bothering you with all this."


    The man chuckled. "Please, I insist. You have the eyes of a girl who has seen the world." He reached out for her neck and bowed to her. "This will bring you luck in your journey to find that precious person you''re looking for."


    His words sent a shiver down her spine. "I. . ." she stammered, taking the necklace between her hands and inspecting it closely: a golden chain with a half-moon pendant crafted in a turquoise gemstone she couldn''t recognize. "I can''t accept this, mister!"


    "Hey, you!" a deep voice roared behind her. "Why are you wasting your time buying jewelry, knucklehead?"


    Quickly, Remnya turned and saw Merle''s scowl looming over her. "I wasn''t buying anything!" she shouted.


    "Let''s go! Get moving now!" he grunted, grabbing her arm and dragging her away from the shop. The villagers turned to them and gossiped; two old ladies buying vegetables shook their heads at Merle. Remnya imagined they thought Merle was her father, making her even more embarrassed and frustrated.


    Hissing, Remnya shook her arm away from his grasp and turned to look at the old man behind her. He smiled tenderly and waved at her. Remnya sighed and did the same before following Merle.


    "You didn''t have to yell in front of everyone," Remnya complained, folding her arms.


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    "We''ve wasted way too much time already, and I just find out those motherfucking Hunters are stepping on our tails. The info my men gave us was wrong. Someone snitched on us!" Merle clenched his massive fists. "When I find out who. . . I''m gonna force them to eat their own tongue before I crush their fucking skull with my own hands."


    Remnya gulped. "What do we do now?"


    "We move! Forget about spending the night here. We''ll travel all night long."


    "Understood." She sighed and then noticed something in her hands: the old man''s necklace. "Dammit," she whispered, glancing behind her. I guess I''ll have to return it later.


    "Also, your wish will become true," Merle said, punching a nearby wall, destroying the concrete in half, and scaring a boy selling fruits. "We''ll travel by car from here."


    "Do we have a car?"


    Merle guffawed and slapped her back, emptying her lungs with the weight of his massive hand. "I always wonder how a naive kid like you made it this far without dying." He messed up her hair.


    "I wonder the same," she murmured, knowing her journey had just started.


    *¡ã*¡ã*


    Zeo


    Good morning.


    That soothing voice eased the tempest in his heart.


    I hope you rested well.


    He felt as if a massive weight had left his shoulders.


    I prepared your favorite food.


    Perhaps that had always been his fate.


    What do you want to do today?


    Perhaps fighting his true nature had always been his mistake.


    I''m glad we''re together.


    Perhaps his soul could finally be free from his chains.


    I love. . .


    Perhaps just perhaps.


    I. . .


    No.


    Silence put an end to impossible dreams.


    No more.


    Reality annihilated his crimson fantasy.


    I don''t need you anymore.


    . . .


    . . .


    . . .


    *¡ã*¡ã*


    Slowly, Zeo opened his heavy eyelids and saw her face. So beautiful, so distant, her eyes deprived of joy. Not the one of his dreams, but the only one.


    Despite her tears, Zeo knew he had made the right choice.


    "Good morning," Maria said soothingly and forced a smile. She wore a casual yet captivating white dress that revealed more than she probably wanted. Her long hair had been washed and styled elegantly, and her skin looked more radiant than ever under the pale lights.


    Someone must''ve forced her to wear that.


    "Good morning," Zeo answered, scanning his new bedroom. A massive cage for his new life, two beds, two large closets of blackwood, a tall bookshelf, and doorways leading to more rooms. A thin LED monitor loomed over him with a tiny camera; he knew it was more than a TV or a computer.


    Zeo sat up and stretched his arms, cracking his knuckles and neck. The mild pain told him his wounds had improved.


    After a long silence, he spoke to Maria again, "Do you know why I did it?"


    "Zeo," Maria murmured and shook her head. "You don''t have to give me any explanation." She lowered her gaze. "You did what you had to do."


    Zeo clenched his fists, hating the fact that the turmoil in his heart had disappeared. It wasn''t right. Why didn''t he feel remorse? Why didn''t his decision crush his soul and mind? Unable to find an answer, he brushed the stupid thought away and got out of bed, ready to face the consequences of his choices.


    "Where''s Mara¡ªI mean, the captain?" Zeo asked, looking for his eyepatch.


    "Gone, but she left a message." Maria held her hands together behind her back. "She said you can rest all this week."


    "There''s no time to rest." Zeo opened one of the closets and found a wide range of clothes, from Hunter uniforms to casual shirts. Inside a drawer, he saw a collection of eyepatches of different colors. He grabbed a black one and chose a light combat shirt and pants. "I''ll go explore this place."


    Maria tightened her lips and nodded hesitantly.


    Zeo changed and adjusted his new clothes, unfazed by Maria''s presence. In a corner, he found his footwear and picked a pair of combat boots that matched his black pants. Ready to face his new environment, he walked toward a large metal door but stopped to look at Maria for a moment. "Do you want to come?"


    Maria''s eyes revealed fear, yet she nodded. "I''ll come with you if you want me."


    Zeo considered leaving her in the room, but he knew she had to get used to her new lifestyle as soon as possible. "Yeah, I want you to come." He tapped a touchscreen next to the door. A beep resounded through the room, and the doors slid open.


    On the other side awaited a long corridor surrounded by white metallic walls and blinding LED lights that covered the ceiling. Zeo took the first step, and Maria followed. As they advanced, he noticed every door had a number plate where he could read the full names of his new companions.


    Another door glimmered at the end of the corridor. Zeo tapped another touchscreen. After a beep, it opened, revealing what seemed to be a dining hall. The eyes of several soldiers landed on the pair like magnets, but Zeo ignored them and headed toward a food machine. Two men murmured behind his back while a group of three women gossiped about something.


    Multiple food machines were lined up along the wall, offering various meals and drinks. Zeo grabbed two bottles of apple juice from one and two chicken sandwiches and a salad from another.


    Far from everyone, they sat at a table in a corner, and Zeo finally lifted his gaze to recognize his fellow Hunters. Maria shifted awkwardly in her seat, with her legs trembling. Zeo grabbed her hand and stared deep into her eyes. "It''s okay. No one is going to hurt you anymore," he said confidently.


    Maria stared back at him for a moment, her lavender eyes flickering with fear, and then nodded.


    A tall man stood in the distance, smirking at the pair, and then began walking in their direction. Zeo locked his eye on him, observing every one of his movements until he halted before them. Uninvited, he sat across their table, slamming his elbows on the metal, and grabbed one of Zeo''s sandwiches.


    Silence.


    "I''ve heard great things about you, Azlanin Zeo," he said in a soft voice that contrasted with his hardened appearance. Zeo could not perceive sarcasm or ill intentions in his words. "Not many can say they faced the ex-Lieutenant Edo and survived. Let alone, take one of his eyes."


    "I did what I had to do," Zeo said, burying his fingers into the sandwich the man had taken between his hands, "and I would do it again."


    The man let out a burst of laughter, nodding and releasing the sandwich. "My name is Arkor, and like you, I am a hybrid too." He opened his arms and glanced at the people in the hall. "In fact, everyone here is a Hybrid."


    "I thought The Hunters hated Hybrids." Zeo took a bite of his food.


    "Don''t get me wrong, Azlanin Zeo." He narrowed his eyes. "Even if we''re here as members of the great Hunters, we are still just cannon fodder. Our lives depend on our lords, or as we like to call them, our Gods. Though, you''re lucky, my friend. Our dear captain Marakudra chose you as his warrior."


    "What about you?"


    "Me?" Arkor chuckled and shook his head. "I was stupid enough to challenge our lords, believing I could liberate my people. In the end, my army was crushed, my home destroyed, and my friends reduced to corpses. The only reason I am still alive is that I earned someone''s respect out there."


    "I see," Zeo replied, uninterested, and kept chewing his food.


    Arkor let out a silent sigh, and his eyes revealed the pain of a soldier who had lost everything. "Ever since our demise, we''ve been surviving under the command of our lords. Everyone''s lives here belong to our dear captain, Marakudra, and her subordinates, Pyon and Edo."


    "Edo. . ." Zeo buried his nails into the bread.


    Arkor nodded, analyzing Zeo''s reaction for a moment. "We follow their commands like our supreme law. We live and die for them."


    "Edo and Pyon can go fuck themselves," Zeo spat, narrowing his eye.


    The whole room fell silent and still, and everyone''s eyes turned toward Zeo.


    "Azlanin Zeo," Arkor whispered, leaning closer. "I''m in no position to give you any advice, but if my words mean anything to you. Please, try to cooperate with them when necessary. I know our lord captain chose you, but," he glanced at Maria, "her life is too fragile between these walls."


    Zeo twisted his lips and gave Maria a sidelong glance. "I''ll keep that in mind."


    Arkor nodded and stood up. "Enjoy your food, and welcome aboard, Azlanin Zeo."


    "Before you go," Zeo raised his voice. "I got a question for you."


    Arkor bobbed his head and smiled. "How can I serve you?"


    "How did they manage to locate Debrin Kavram''s army?"


    "Oh, that. . ." Arkor folded his arms and looked left and right, making sure no one heard him. "It seems like the brave warriors of the great Debrin Kavram aren''t as loyal as we thought. Someone betrayed him."


    "What?" Zeo grimaced, unable to believe his words. "What kind of coward would do that?"


    "The information is scarce, Azlanin Zeo, but if what the rumors claim is true, one of his warriors couldn''t resist our Lords'' offer and sold his leader to The Hunters. It''s just a matter of time before the great Debrin Kavram meets his demise."


    Zeo buried his nails into his skin, drawing blood, and then glared at Arkor. "Bullshit!" he shouted, standing up and slamming his hands on the table.


    "I''m sorry, Azlanin Zeo. That''s all I know. Who knows which the real truth is." Arkor bowed to him and walked away.


    Zeo dropped back on his seat, gritting his teeth while the veins of his forehead bulged with anger. Maria leaned her hand on Zeo''s back and whispered in his ear, "Even if that''s true, Debrin Kavram won''t fall. I''ve met that man. If someone can destroy The Hunters, it''s him."


    Zeo took a deep breath and bobbed his head. "I guess that doesn''t matter anymore. That''s Rem''s battle, not mine."


    "You''re right." Maria lowered her gaze, refusing to speak further, and focused on her food.


    "I also confirmed something," Zeo murmured, contempt invading his face.


    "What is it?"


    "These people aren''t even Hunters. They''re just disposable trash."


    Maria widened her eyes, holding still a fork before her mouth. "What makes you say that?"


    Zeo chuckled bitterly and looked her way. "Am I wrong? They don''t even own their own lives. They''re pathetic."


    "Not long ago, we didn''t own our own lives either. . . I still don''t."


    "All I know is they''re worthless." Zeo took the last bite of his sandwich and grabbed his juice bottle to drink. "And I don''t give a shit about any of them either, not even Marakudra. I am still the owner of my life."


    "Zeo. . . is this really you?" Maria''s scanned his face, her pupils flickering. "Are you. . ." Her lips trembled as she tried to say something, but no word dared to come out. She just lowered her face and clenched her fists.


    "Now I understand," Zeo murmured, adrenaline rushing through his veins as if a chaotic demon had taken control of his senses. "I needed to lose my eye to be able to see the truth about this fucking world." The melancholy in his heart seemed to vanish, and an unknown feeling of power and bloodlust invaded his brain, making him smile.


    "I''m sorry, Maria, but the Zeo you once met is already dead."


    *¡ã*¡ã*


    <u>Next Chapter</u>: December 3

 57: Family

    Remnya


    The sun faded behind the horizon, and the first street lights began to glow orange, shifting the welcoming atmosphere of the village. Remnya and Merle crossed the market street, where all the merchants gathered by sunset with their food carts. The smell of fried meat lingered in the air, and people flooded the streets searching for the best meal.


    Despite the distractions, Remnya focused on her surroundings, scanning every corner for the men with horns. Merle advanced in front of her, wearing a ridiculous fedora and drinking from a large liquor bottle he had bought at a tavern.


    They turned into a narrow street, where the appetizing smell of food was replaced by the reek of alcohol and cigarettes. Kids and elders vanished, and menacing gloomy faces emerged from the shadows. Prying eyes scanned Remnya from different corners, making her skin crawl. Arriving at an intersection, she noticed several pubs and brothels on each side of the street.


    Merle halted in front of a pub and scratched his chin, scanning his surroundings. Finally, his eyes landed on an old truck parked nearby. Remnya read his intentions as soon as he stomped toward the vehicle.


    "Are you serious?" Remnya questioned, her heart racing in her chest.


    "Stay quiet and do as I say." Merle scowled and stood next to the truck. He glanced left and right, making sure no one looked his way, and then placed his hand against the driver''s window. His skin glowed, and the crystal began to melt, opening a hole. Merle shoved his hand through it and unlocked the door. Those seconds felt like hours for Remnya, who noticed two drunk men and a lady looking their way.


    Unfazed, Merle sat on the driver''s seat and gestured at Remnya to get inside. Shunning away the conflicting emotions lurking in her head, she obeyed, hopping in the vehicle and closing the door. The truck smelled of dust and dampness mixed with old diesel and oil.


    "This is stealing!" Remnya shouted, feeling cold sweat prickling at her skin.


    "We''re just borrowing it." Merle used the wires under the steering wheel to start the engine.


    "How many times have you done this?" Remnya asked, glancing everywhere, fearing the owner would show up at any moment.


    "I grew up among cars, this is a piece of cake." Merle released the handbrake, and the truck moved, its old motor roaring as it released a trail of thick black smoke.


    Merle honked and insulted a drunk man limping along the street and accelerated recklessly. Remnya''s heart sunk to the bottom of her stomach, thinking about what the witnesses would say about her. Yet, she was relieved no one dared to confront them about their crime; Merle''s intimidating appearance was enough to deter any fool from trying to play the hero.


    They turned left onto a dirt road and sped up through the twilight. A green sign on the side of the road read: ''Crysalton 567 KM''.


    "This road should take us to the main highway," Merle said, then pointed at the travel bag where he had put his bottle. Remnya grabbed the liquor and handed it to him, who, smiling, rushed to chug it. She wondered if they would make it to Crysalton alive.


    Resigned, Remnya sighed and adjusted her seatbelt. She leaned her face against the stained window and tried to focus on the landscape. A tenuous beam of sunlight still peeked at her from behind a wall of Redwood trees that spread along the roadway, building a fortress of crimson, home to countless animals.


    The soil was of an orange tone like clay, soft and slippery, which caused the truck''s tires to lose traction as Merle sped up aggressively around a narrow curve, ignoring bumps and holes. The ride fell like a rollercoaster of sand and clay.


    An orange mist of dust trailed after them, disappearing as the last spark of sunlight vanished.


    Despite Merle''s alcoholic and reckless behavior, Remnya felt safe. He wasn''t the type of man who would hurt her willingly. He had already saved her once.


    The minutes turned into one boring hour, and drowsiness took over Remnya''s body. She rested her eyes for a moment, but without realizing it, she fell asleep.


    . . .


    Rem.


    . . .


    Rem.


    . . .


    Do you remember our promise?


    . . .


    I do! How could I ever forget? Why?


    . . .


    Rem.


    . . .


    That promise. . .


    . . .


    Forget about that stupid promise.


    I don''t want you nearby.


    I don''t need you anymore.


    . . .


    What are you saying?


    We made a promise!


    Why are you telling me this now?


    This. . .


    This is not you!


    . . .


    Zeo!


    . . .


    If you stumble upon this narrative on Amazon, be aware that it has been stolen from Royal Road. Please report it.


    ZEO!


    . . .


    . . .


    A splash of cold water on Remnya''s face shook her dream world and brought her back to reality. Her body was shaking, wondering whose that voice was.


    It couldn''t be Zeo. No way.


    Just a stupid dream.


    Just a stupid dream.


    Remnya rubbed her eyes, trying to comprehend the situation, and then saw Merle standing next to her with a scowl and a water bottle in his hand.


    "At last!" he shouted. "C''mon! Get moving, we can''t waste any more time."


    "You could''ve just yelled and I would''ve gotten up!" Remnya yelled at him, brushing her drenched hair with her fingertips.


    "I''ve been doing that for ten minutes. You sleep like a fucking bear." Merle tossed the water bottle at her. Remnya caught it and hopped out of the truck, yawning and stretching her arms.


    She scanned her surroundings and noticed they had parked next to a dirt road engulfed by darkness. However, on the horizon, the headlights of vehicles rolled left and right on what seemed to be a highway. Beyond, she recognized the city lights of Crysalton, rising to the highest peak amid the mountains.


    "Where are we?"


    "Lacacia Forest," Merle said, dropping a massive tree trunk on the road to block it.


    Remnya remembered that name from overhearing Ronner''s conversations with his men.


    "My girls and boys cleared the path for us, so we better hurry. C''mon!" Merle stomped down a cliff, vanishing behind the rocks.


    "Wait!" Remnya rushed after him but halted over the edge of a ridge to calculate the fall. Beneath, all the vegetation had been burned to the ground, and embers still glowed like the eyes of a feline.


    Remnya balanced her body carefully through the irregular, steep terrain and followed Merle.


    The smell of burnt wood lingered in the air, mixed with the nocturnal moisture of the forest. Remnya strode through rocks and the remnants of trees covered in ashes. The only sounds in the ambient were Merle''s stomps and her boots crushing charred branches.


    Deeper into the forest, bordering a hill, the vegetation grew again, and the whispers of owls filled the silence. They crossed a dry creek and took a steep path toward another ridge that seemed to touch the night sky from Remnya''s perspective.


    They reached the top, and Merle stopped to observe the landscape beneath them. He pointed at a small cabin hidden behind trees and bushes in the distance. "There."


    Remnya''s heart raced in her chest, and without thinking, she went ahead. "Is Brisa there?" she asked, her eyes locked on their destination.


    "That''s likely." Merle slowed his pace, allowing her to lead the walk. "It''s better if you arrive first."


    Remnya nodded, her legs moving on their own, almost running, while an avalanche of feelings was unleashed inside her. The sharp rocks and deadly thorns of cactuses in her way didn''t seem to be there anymore.


    She reached the cabin quickly and stood in front of a wooden door. Despite the rustic exterior, the door lock had an electronic device with a digital pad and a blinking red light.


    "This security system. . ." Merle stood next to her and scratched his chin. "Right, this place must''ve belonged to Ronner."


    "So, this is no ordinary place." Remnya knocked on the door and leaned her ear against the wood.


    "The precarious appearance is only a cover. This cabin is built like a fortress, she probably learned about this place from Ronner himself."


    Remnya kept knocking, but the minutes passed with no answer. "We need to get inside somehow," she said.


    "Then do it." Merle gestured with his eyes at the door lock. "Destroy it. Your friend won''t need it anymore after all."


    Clenching her fists, Remnya nodded and placed her hand on the lock. Like a torch, she shot a stream of crimson fire from her palm. The metal device heated up until it glowed, first orange and then yellow.


    When the metal turned into an incandescent white, it began to melt, revealing a thick steel layer underneath.


    BOOM!


    The door lock blew up like a small bomb, kicking Remnya away like a doll.


    She landed on her back against the hard ground and let out a grunt of pain. Merle guffawed at her while flames and sparks covered his body and destroyed the front of the cabin; the explosion had barely moved his massive body.


    Remnya felt her head spinning like a wheel and her skin and eyes burning. The impact had felt like thousands of punches to the face, and her whole body ached.


    "What the hell?" she shouted, staggering to stand up and massaging her head. She glared at Merle. "You knew this would happen, didn''t you?"


    Merle smirked, holding his laughter. "These devices are cool, aren''t they? If they can''t stop the intruder, they''ll blow up, killing them or at least causing as much damage as possible."


    "Ugh!" Remnya gritted her teeth and wiped the soot and ashes from her face. "I''ll get you back for this, old man."


    Merle guffawed and then placed his hand against the remnants of the steel door. "I''m sure your friend will end up hating me too." The ground shook under Remnya''s feet, and then Merle released a powerful blast from his hand. The steel cracked and exploded into several pieces, releasing sparks and blades of sharp metal in every direction.


    Remnya covered her face as the metallic bullets whistled inches from her body, only scratching her clothes, unable to penetrate the thick thread to harm her skin. Merle glanced at her, but Remnya said nothing; she knew he had done that on purpose to prove a point. She scoffed and walked toward the broken door, which collapsed as soon as Merle gave it a soft push.


    "Go find your friend, she''s probably underground," Merle said, searching for his liquor bottle in his pockets. "Hurry up, we''re running out of time."


    Remnya bobbed her head and rushed inside through ashes and smoke.


    She arrived at what seemed to be an entrance hall, immersed in darkness and silence. The faint smell of pinewood floated in the air. Poking her surroundings, Remnya walked through a narrow corridor until a tenuous blue glow in the distance caught her attention. Nearing the source of the light, she found the entrance to the underground bunker.


    "Monsters like you never give up, do you?" Someone cocked a gun behind her.


    However, Remnya recognized that voice.


    "Is this Danny?" she asked, removing the cap from her head to reveal her horns and hair.


    Danny''s eyes widened like full moons when Remnya turned to him. He dropped his weapon and rushed to her encounter. "Remnya? Is this really you?" He took her hands between his while a smile spread across his face.


    Remnya nodded, beaming at him. Danny had changed, his long blonde hair was up in a ponytail, and two deep scars crossed his face. His blue eyes glowed in unison with the light, looking fiercer than ever.


    "I am glad to see you alive," Remnya said, squeezing his hands.


    "So I am to see you again, Remnya." Tears welled up in his eyes. "You look strong and radiant in those clothes."


    Remnya blushed and shook her head. "No, no. I was forced to wear this." Before the joy of seeing him again distracted her, she forced herself to focus on her main goal. Remnya narrowed her eyes and spoke firmly, "Danny. We need to get out of here as soon as possible. Where''s Brisa?"


    Danny raised his eyebrows and nodded. "Come with me." He took her hand and guided Remnya downstairs.


    One last door with the same security device blocked their path, but Danny quickly dialed the code to unlock it.


    Clanking and squeaking, the heavy steel door opened, revealing a massive bunker. There were several shelves full of canned food and water bottles on each side of the room. Two automatic rifles hung from a wall, along with bullets and what seemed to be grenades.


    Danny gestured at Remnya to follow him through a passage made from cramping shelves together. Four bunk beds were on the other side, lined with the walls, and two large closets.


    Remnya swallowed, and her heart rushed in her chest.


    Sitting on a bed, she recognized the face she had been craving to see for months.


    Brisa.


    Her golden eyes filled with tears, and a beautiful smile spread across her face.


    Without thinking, Remnya ran toward her.


    Her arms wrapped around her sister, and tears escaped her eyes, feeling her warm body, providing that peace she had needed so much on her long journey.


    "I am sorry, I am sorry. . ." Remnya repeated over and over, sobbing uncontrollably against her chest, overhearing the beats of her heart.


    "Everything is okay now, Rem," Brisa whispered in her ear, caressing her head and squeezing her body tightly against hers. Her fingers brushed her hair, and then she gently kissed her cheek. "I am here for you."


    Peaceful silence filled Remnya''s mind, wishing that moment would last forever.


    Remnya closed her eyes and smiled. "Brisa. . . it''s time to go home."


    *¡ã*¡ã*


    <u>Next Chapter</u>: December 7

 58: Nothing Else Matters

    Remnya


    I do not believe in dreams. . .


    But I believe in fate.


    Remnya still remembered those words, words spoken the night she thought would be her last.


    However, life had given her a second chance.


    I won''t let it go.


    Never again.


    The soothing heartbeats resonating in Remnya''s ears seemed to heal the wounds her journey had left on her body and mind. A warm bosom where she could rest her head and allow her dreams to flourish once again, at least for an ephemeral moment.


    Family.


    My family.


    I must protect it.


    Tears ceased, and silence embraced the room with motherly arms. The dream was over, but perhaps, reality had decided to spare her the pain that night.


    Remnya raised her eyes to observe her beloved sister. Her beauty hadn''t changed, and neither did the golden warmth of her eyes. She wore a plain pink shirt and jeans, and her hair was shorter than she remembered. Lowering her gaze, Remnya noticed the size of her abdomen.


    A rush of joy filled her heart.


    "You''re fat," Remnya said, poking her stomach with a big smile plastered across her face.


    "Oh, shut up, brat!" Brisa replied, smirking, and then pinched her cheeks. "You''ve gotten taller."


    "Did I?" She giggled and held her hands tightly in hers. "How long until he or she is born?"


    "Two or three months, probably?" Brisa glanced at Danny, who stood by the stairs, grinning. "He says it''ll be a boy."


    Remnya pouted. "I wanted a girl, but whatever."


    "I don''t want another annoying brat like you." Brisa faked an angry expression. "So, boy it is."


    Remnya stuck her tongue out at her and giggled. "What will his name be?"


    Brisa remained pensive for a moment. "I''ve not decided it yet."


    "As I thought! But don''t worry, I got your back. I thought of a lot of cool names!"


    "Oh? Mind telling me some of your great names?"


    "Well. . ." Remnya tried to remember, but suddenly, the gloomy face of Merle popped up in her head, reminding her of their primary mission there. Her smile faded, and she furrowed her eyebrows. "I''ll tell you later. . . Right now, we need to get outta here."


    Brisa widened her eyes. "Where are we going? I imagine you didn''t make it here alone, did you?"


    "That''s right." She nodded. "It''s a long story, but let''s just say the people from Karx helped me, and now we''re going back with them."


    "Karx?"


    "I''ll explain everything to you on our way home, but first, we need to leave this place." Remnya gestured at Danny to get closer. "You''re coming with us too."


    "Me?" Danny put his hands in front of himself and shook his head. "I can''t leave this place yet. I need to wait for Cassius."


    "Cassius?" Remnya raised one eyebrow, trying to recall that name until the memories of her past returned like an avalanche. Cassius Doman, also known as Viper. Skado''s brother and Persen''s son. A cold shiver ran down her back. "That guy?"


    "Believe it or not, he''s the reason we''re still alive," Brisa added, leaning her hand on Remnya''s shoulder. "He risked his life to protect us, and he''s the main reason Zeo and you could escape that night. He chose to fight instead of turning you in to The Hunters."


    Remnya clenched her fists. No matter what, she couldn''t forgive Viper for what he had done to them. "I am not waiting for that man," she raised her voice, scowling.


    "That''s understandable." Unfazed, Danny folded his arms. "You and Brisa should get to safety as soon as possible. I''ll stay here until he returns."


    "Danny, you can''t be serious." Brisa strode to him, shaking her head. "Do you expect me to just leave you behind? You need to come with us!"


    "You''ve always had a great heart, Bris." He giggled and caressed her shoulder. "But what we did for you, we did it because it was our duty. We both caused you and Remnya a lot of pain. Let''s say, we were just making up for our past mistakes." Danny narrowed his eyes. "You owe us nothing."


    Remnya swallowed as guilt and frustration stung her insides. She wanted to save Danny too, but she couldn''t risk Brisa''s life because of those stupid feelings. She had lost her once; it couldn''t happen again.


    "Brisa," Remnya spoke coldly and clenched her fists. "We have no time to waste. Go get your belonging and let''s get out of here."


    "Rem. . ." Brisa stared at her for a moment, her pupils flickering with hesitation. The weight of her dilemma erased the joy from her face.


    "Remnya is right," Danny added, squeezing Brisa''s hand. "Don''t waste time trying to convince me. Go with her, she''s your family. Cassius is mine. I''ll be fine. I doubt The Hunters have any interest in a pathetic human like me."


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    Brisa lowered her gaze and made a long pause. "I am sorry," she murmured, biting her lips. "I won''t try to convince you because I know you won''t listen, but please. . . survive."


    Danny stifled a chuckle. "I''ll do my best."


    "I''ll wait for you outside," Remnya said and strode toward the stairs, feeling the sword of guilt stabbing her chest. Again, life refused to give her a choice and forced her to decide between two equally pitiful paths.


    But even if she hated herself for it, her priority was to protect Brisa.


    Nothing else matters.


    Outside, a full moon rose over the horizon, and an owl hooted atop a low tree branch. Below, Remnya was surprised to find their truck parked and Merle sitting on the hood, drinking. She wondered how he had managed to drive the old vehicle there despite the rough terrain.


    As Remnya walked toward him, he quickly recognized the turmoil in her head.


    "You don''t seem too happy," Merle said.


    She nodded and leaned on the truck next to him. "Taking Brisa with us means leaving a good person behind to fence on his own. . . All because of that Viper jerk."


    "Viper Doman?"


    "Do you know him?"


    "Not personally, but I''ve heard he''s a weirdo." Merle shrugged and hopped off the hood of the truck. "Vlad told me some wounded man fought his way through the Hunters. Luckily for him, my buddies got there in time to help him escape. That was before we found your friend."


    "Is it wrong to not care about him?" Remnya pursed her lips. "He''s Skado''s brother and. . ." She clenched her fists. "Persen''s son."


    "I can understand how you feel. I wouldn''t give a shit about him either." Merle stood next to Remnya and messed up her hair. "However, you''re not me, you''re you. Do whatever you feel is right."


    "There''s no time either way."


    A sudden crunch of dry leaves alerted Remnya of the presence of someone.


    Her pupils dilated, shooting nervous glances toward the darkness, trying to locate the source of that noise. She raised her guard and took one step backward when a shadow moved behind a tree.


    "Don''t worry," Merle said, leaning his hand on her shoulder. "That''s no enemy."


    A young man wearing the same uniform as hers emerged from the bushes. He limped in their direction, half of his face covered in blood.


    "Joan? What are you doing here?" Merle called out and rushed to his encounter, catching his body before he collapsed to the ground. "What happened?"


    "They''re everywhere," he muttered, taking deep breaths as blood flowed from under his pants and through his legs, spilling on the soil.


    "The fucking Hunters? Where''s your team?"


    He gripped Merle''s clothes and stared deep into his eyes. "Captain, both teams have been obliterated. I barely made it out of there alive."


    "Why didn''t you request for backup? WHY?" Merle yelled, shaking the young man in frustration.


    "That''s impossible," Joan murmured, taking a mouthful of oxygen before he continued. "They released an ECM attack across the whole city to track and block incoming and outgoing radio signals."


    "I see. . ." Merle muttered, easing Joan onto the ground. "FUCKING HUNTERS!" he roared, the veins on his forehead bulging with fury. "Just wait till I put my hands on those cunts!"


    Remnya stood stiffly next to them, her heart kicking against her ribs. She wondered if their chances to return home had vanished.


    "I guess that''s why I was unable to contact Cassius," Danny interrupted, walking outside along with Brisa. He helped her to carry two travel bags. "Though, I believe your communications could get through if you manage to connect to one of those ZG Towers of Crysalton."


    They stared at him in silence for a moment.


    "You''re right, blonde boy," Merle said, scratching his chin. "If we get into the ECM range, we can contact them using a ZG port. However, the call will be easily tracked by those bastards."


    "He''s Merle, by the way," Remnya told Brisa, pointing at the big man. "Captain of the Silver Army of Karx."


    "Nice to meet you, sir." Brisa murmured, widening her eyes at Merle''s imposing figure while Danny acknowledged him with a bow.


    "You must be Brisa." Merle scanned her from head to toe. "Ronner always had a fine taste in women. And I don''t know who the blonde kid is, but it doesn''t matter right now." He gestured at Remnya to move.


    Remnya nodded and rushed to grab the travel bags from Danny''s hands. She placed them in the truck bed and then opened the back door. "If that''s all, we should get moving," she said.


    "You all should drive back to safety while there''s still time," Merle said, opening another liquor bottle.


    "Only us? What about you, old man?" Remnya scowled.


    "I am staying here, kid." Merle smirked, cracking his knuckles. "Those sassy bastards seem to think they can kill my people and walk away unharmed." He narrowed his eyes, his gaze sending a cold shiver down her spine. "They''ll pay with their blood."


    Remnya gulped and walked toward him, shaking her head. "Old man, that''s too dangerous! Are you planning to fight alone?"


    Merle chuckled. "Debrin will arrive soon, but the rest of my army will be sent home. At least, we will reduce our loses if we happen to fail." He turned to the young man sitting on the ground. "Joan, can you still fight?"


    Joan lifted his gaze at him and nodded. "I''m ready for anything, captain."


    "Good! Because your next mission will be driving these women back to safety." He pointed at Brisa and Remnya.


    "As you command." Joan placed his hands on the ground, and like a wild cat, he jumped back to his feet, ignoring the severity of his wounds. "It''ll be my pleasure to accompany you, young Remnya." He bowed to her.


    "I. . . Uh. . ." Remnya stammered and then bowed too. "Thank you very much."


    "That''s it then. Get the fuck outta here, kids!" Merle shouted, turning his back to them and drinking his beverage. Joan saluted his captain and ran toward the truck. He hopped in and rushed to start the engine.


    Brisa exchanged looks with Remnya and then nodded, telling her everything she needed to know. Brisa grabbed Danny''s hands and whispered something in his ear before embracing him into a tight hug.


    Remnya swallowed, a knot closing her throat, wondering if she would ever see him again.


    Merle placed his hand on Remnya''s head and smiled. "It seems like he''s an important person for your friend."


    "I wish I was strong enough to protect him too. . ."


    "You''ve proved your strength way too many times." He messed up her hair. "Now leave the rest to me."


    Remnya bobbed her head, feeling oppression on her chest. "Please take care, old man."


    "You too, kid. . . You too."


    Silence.


    Wiping her tears, Brisa walked toward Merle. She stood in front of him and then bowed. "You''ve done so much for Remnya and us. Thank you. I''m forever grateful to you, sir."


    Merle guffawed. "Well, young lady, if you want to thank me properly, tell me where the alcohol is. I''ve not drunk anything proper in days."


    "Oh, sir, please follow me," Danny said, gesturing at Merle to come inside. "We have a whole shelf full of vintage wines."


    "Now we''re talking!" Merle shouted and stomped in his direction. Remnya smiled and watched Danny and Merle vanish into the cabin.


    Thank you for everything.


    Remnya grabbed Brisa''s hand and guided her toward the truck. They hopped in the backseat and closed the door.


    Joan shoved the first gear and accelerated. The old engine roared as the truck began moving through the steep terrain leading back to the road.


    Remnya turned her head to look behind and watched the old cabin fading in the darkness. Please, don''t die. . . Mr. Merle, Danny, and Debrin.


    Brisa took Remnya''s cold hand and held it tightly. "Everything will be okay, Rem," she whispered and gifted her a tender smile that warmed her heart.


    Staring into her sister''s eyes, Remnya nodded and squeezed her hand. She knew Brisa could read her emotions like a book, yet she forced a smile not to worry her.


    "We''ve come a long way." Brisa brushed a strand of hair away from Remnya''s face. "It''ll be over soon, and then we''ll be able to fulfill our promise of going shopping together."


    "I want to help you buy baby''s clothes," Remnya murmured, averting her eyes, embarrassed by her own words.


    "We can do that." Brisa nodded and then smirked. "And we''ll buy new clothes for you too. Your sense of fashion is way off."


    "Shut up!" Remnya scowled, but Brisa chuckled at her reaction.


    "Hey, we gotta help each other, right?" Brisa beamed at her. "We''re family after all."


    A smile forced its way across Remnya''s face. "Yes. We are."


    *¡ã*¡ã*


    <u>Next Chapter</u>: December 10

 59: Endeavour

    Remnya


    Remnya and Brisa arrived at Debrin''s hideout by sunrise. A symphony of birds welcomed them as the truck crossed the gates that led to the citrus garden, where the army had spent their last dinner together. The smoke of dying campfires lingered in the air like a gray mist, along with the smell of burnt wood and incense.


    They parked under a lemon tree and stepped out of the vehicle. Brisa admired her surroundings, her mouth wide open as hummingbirds flapped their wings near her hair. Remnya rushed to help Joan stand up, but the man declined her aid with a polite shake of his head.


    "I guess your mission was a success," a soothing voice said from behind.


    Remnya turned and saw Ozura walking in her direction. Her purple pupils scanned Brisa from head to toe. "Is this your friend?"


    "Yes, miss," Remnya replied and grabbed her sister''s hand. "She is Brisa."


    Brisa gasped and bowed to Ozura. "It''s a pleasure to meet you."


    Ozura twisted her lips, staring at Brisa''s abdomen for long seconds, and then looked into her eyes coldly. "These are sorrowful times to bring a child to the world," she said.


    Brisa lowered her gaze and said nothing. However, Remnya scowled and opened her mouth, but words didn''t dare to leave the depths of her thoughts. She didn''t choose to!


    Silence.


    Ozura''s expression softened as she observed Remnya''s and Brisa''s reactions. She brushed a strand of carmine hair out of her face and spoke, "Anyway, you two must be tired. Please come in, I was making breakfast."


    "Don''t worry about me, miss." Remnya pointed at Joan. "I think he needs breakfast more than me."


    Ozura chuckled, displaying two perfect Nephilim fangs. "He''ll be fine. Plus Joan hates my food."


    Joan nodded. "She''s right. Don''t worry about me, young Remnya. I have all I need in my tent." He bowed to them and walked away, fading behind the trees.


    Remnya blinked in confusion and then shrugged. "Alright then." She rushed to unload their bags from the truck bed, and together, they entered Debrin''s home.


    The interior looked different. Someone had cleaned the mess Debrin and Merle had left, turning the kitchen into a tidy and welcoming environment. Remnya barely recognized it without the dozen boxes scattered everywhere. Even the smell had changed; a sweet scent of peach floated in the air.


    Ozura''s breakfast was a cup of red tea with orange and lemon. Next to it, there was a plate with tangerine jam and bread sliced neatly. Remnya and Brisa sat across from each other while Ozura sat at the end of the table, smiling at them. Remnya had a hard time recognizing that lady without her combat uniform. She wore a long dress and an apron that made her look like a caring mom, unlike the fearsome and ruthless warrior everyone claimed she was.


    Driven by hunger, Remnya rushed to eat and finished before Brisa even took the first sip of tea. Ozura offered her another cup and more bread, which Remnya happily accepted.


    "So. . ." Ozura looked at Brisa. "What will his name be?"


    "His name?" Surprised, Brisa swallowed her food and thought for a moment. "I am bad at names, so I agreed to let Remnya choose one for me. Maybe two."


    Ozura turned to Remnya, expecting an answer. A smile spread across Remnya''s face. "I wanted to name him Amy, but since he''ll be a boy, I was thinking of. . . uh. . ." She stayed pensive for a moment. "How about Zaoly? Like the kid from that story Zeo read me."


    "Zaoly?" Brisa tilted her head. "Who was Zaoly?"


    "Zaoly was a kid who wanted to ride clouds and travel the world. He was strong too, and kind to animals, so one day, the birds decided to help him fulfill his dream. They built a giant nest like thingy to carry him through the skies, but the evil kids from his village didn''t want him to be happy, so they burned the forest." Remnya lowered her gaze. "I guess it''s not the happiest story, but Zaoly was brave and never gave up trying to protect those who were important to him. Even if they were as small as a hummingbird."


    "I like that name," Ozura said, sipping her tea elegantly. "It''s different and would suit a child born in the forest." She twisted her lips into a slight smile.


    "I agree." Brisa nodded and smirked at Remnya. "Your head can be as dense as a rock sometimes, but I can''t deny your creativity."


    "Shush!" Remnya stuck her tongue out at her and threatened her with a spoon.


    "I believe there''s still hope," Ozura trailed off, staring through the window into the horizon. Sunbeams reflected on her pupils, sparkling. "Once this war is over, people will be able to rebuild their future, without fear. Perhaps, the children of tomorrow will see a better world than the one their parents left behind."


    Remnya and Brisa looked at her in silence. Her words seemed like a distant dream, yet Remnya wanted to believe in and live by them too.


    "I do not expect to see it myself, but I know you can." Ozura locked her eyes on Remnya.


    Remnya furrowed her eyebrows and nodded. "You will too! Debrin, Merle, Vlad, you, and this whole army. You all can do it!" A spark flashed in her heart, making it beat faster. "Brisa, Zeo, and I will do it too."


    Brisa beamed at Remnya and bobbed her head, hope flickering in her pupils.


    "I guess I have no choice but to believe those crimson eyes," Ozura said, her words soothing but powerful enough to feed the hope burning in Remnya''s chest.


    Support the creativity of authors by visiting Royal Road for this novel and more.


    The door burst open.


    Joan bolted inside, his face pale with a sorrowful expression.


    "What''s the matter?" Ozura asked, sipping her tea.


    "News from Crysalton." Joan took a deep breath and remained silent. His lips trembled as if refusing to reveal a secret.


    "Speak." Ozura''s sharp voice resounded through the room, her soft demeanor changing into a deep scowl.


    He clenched his fists and nodded hesitantly. "I''m afraid our Great Leader and Captain Merle didn''t make it in time. . . Vladimore''s army has been defeated."


    *¡ã*¡ã*


    Zeo


    The Hunters'' Headquarters was amid one of the highest plateaus of the Republic of Razdef. Its strategic location between the capital city of Crysalton and the prosperous Kingdom of Nebran allowed them to pull the strings of society at will.


    At 5000 meters above sea level, the place also provided a challenging environment for training due to the low oxygen levels and extreme cold. Rumors even claimed monstrous creatures lurked in the highlands, turning any escape attempt into a death sentence.


    Zeo stood still, staring at the bottom of a precipice. A gelid breeze brushed his long hair, now grown past his shoulders. He lifted his bangs with a headband and took a deep breath before jumping into the abyss.


    Using his vectors, he slowed his body as it neared the sharp edges of rocks. His spectral arms gripped the mountain and stopped him vertically above a mountain river of violent icy waters.


    The call of an eagle echoed through the gorge.


    Zeo used his vectors as his own arms and grabbed the rocks sticking out to climb. However, the low grip made the task extremely difficult. The veins of his forehead bulged as he struggled not to let go of his only lifeline.


    The vertical ascent took him half an hour, but he finally made it to the training grounds atop the mountain. Arkor waited for him on the other side. He offered his hand to help Zeo stand up, but he refused and stood on his own under the attentive stare of his companions who gathered near the cliff.


    "That took you forever, crossbreed," Pyon said, folding his arms. He directed the training that day.


    Zeo said nothing; words weren''t worth it anymore. He knew he was better than them. Even though his fighting skills were inferior, his vectors could kill everyone there in seconds, except for Pyon. Zeo stood alone, far from the group, and cracked his knuckles, feeling cold sweat prickling at his skin.


    "Listen here, pathetic crossbreeds," Pyon shouted. "I know you were all bred to live a meaningless existence and die for your masters, but I want you to try and give me more than that." He circled the group, shooting contemptuous glances at his subordinates. Everyone lowered their gazes except for Arkor and Zeo, who locked their pupils on him. "A great battle against Karx is coming, and I need you all to be ready. We have a unique opportunity to seize one of their greatest aces on the battlefield, Debrin Kavram."


    Zeo tightened his lips.


    "However, his army is fierce and totally different from anything you''ve faced before. You''ll need to fight with everything you got and more." He chuckled. "Many of you will die, I hope you know that. But, I don''t want your deaths to be as meaningless as your lives. Make it worth it!" he roared, raising his fist. "When you go out there to die, I want you to show Karx why we, Hunters, are the most fearsome army in the world. Fight until your whole body is destroyed, show them you''re more than just pathetic mistakes of nature!"


    "YES, SIR!" everyone shouted in unison, except for Zeo, who spat on the ground with disgust.


    Pyon glared at him but said nothing and continued his speech, "Now, with this said, I''d like to make an announcement." The group exchanged confused looks. "Our dear Captain Marakudra has informed me that the army of Karx we ambushed last night has retreated into Lacacia Forest. Our ranks took advantage of it to lay siege to the remaining troops, and soon, they''ll march forward to finish the hunt." A crooked smile spread across his face. "As you can guess, she has requested our presence there to keep Debrin Kavram''s army under attack and crush their spirit for once and for all." Impulsed by a sudden rush of anger, Zeo raised his hand. "What do you want, one-eyed crossbreed?"


    "Why do they need us there? Aren''t they strong enough to defeat the remnants of Kavram''s army?"


    "Good question." Pyon smirked sarcastically. "You see, we could easily obliterate those pathetic deviants from Karx. However, our main goal is to lure their leaders there. Debrin Kavram would never abandon his people to their luck. If not himself, his Captain Merle or the fearsome Vladimore will show up to rescue them. That''s when our primary plan will unfold." He giggled. "But you crossbreeds do not need to worry about that. Your only mission there is to spread as much terror as possible."


    An eerie breeze whistled through the mountains, and silence lingered among the soldiers, who murmured nervously. Zeo locked his eyes on the ground, chewing Pyon''s words, and wondered if Remnya could be among the defeated Karx army.


    It didn''t matter. The Hunters weren''t the only ones with a plan. Zeo had decided to hold the reigns of his destiny.


    "Anyhow!" Pyon cracked his neck and gave a wicked look at his subordinates. "Before sunset, we''ll have a sparring session, but there''s twist." He smirked, and his lifeless wine-red pupils displayed the joy of a monster. "You all will have to show me you''re ready to die for our great leader, Marakudra. Today, the matches will be to the death."


    The faces of several warriors changed, turning pale, and whispers, with a hint of fear, could be heard. Unfazed, Zeo scanned his companions, wondering who would be his victim. His heart was calm, and that sent a shiver down his spine.


    "The rules are simple," Pyon said, grabbing his tablet. "You will be paired randomly on one versus one matches of ten minutes. In those ten minutes, I want you to fight to the death. All weapons, skills, and dirty tricks are allowed. You can''t give up nor receive help. Keep in mind, you might not be able to kill your opponent by the end of the match, that''s okay. However. . ." He swept the group with a cold glare. "If I see any of you not giving it all during those ten minutes, I''ll send both contenders to die in the Devil''s Mouth."


    Zeo had learned that word from his companions. The Devil''s Mouth was the name given to the only active volcano in the country. Prisoners sentenced to death had their limbs chopped and lowered into the volcano pit, slowly cooking their bodies with the heat of the lava. Furthermore, they made sure their deaths weren''t quick by pulling the prisoners out of the volcano before they died, only to repeat the process over and over again.


    It could last days or weeks.


    "Are we clear?" Pyon asked.


    "YES, SIR!" they boomed in unison while Zeo folded his arms in silence.


    "Very well." He began arranging the matches on his tablet screen.


    Zeo doubted the pairing would be random because that jerk hated him, but he was ready for anything. He had decided to live.


    Pyon announced the first pairing. Kristina and Myrian, two girls who were friends and something else. Their faces displayed terror. Zeo assumed he didn''t want any relationship among his disposable army, so that was an excellent opportunity to get rid of one of them.


    The next pairing surprised Zeo. Arkor wasn''t paired with him as he had predicted. Instead, when Pyon mentioned Zeo''s name, he understood his true intentions.


    His opponent was a young girl called Stella. She was around his age and had recently joined. Stella rarely spoke and always hid her face from others. According to Arkor, her parents had been killed by The Hunters, but she was spared due to her skills and forced to join.


    As Zeo took a moment to assimilate his new challenge, his cold heart came back to life and kicked against his chest. Though, he feared it was more than adrenaline running through his veins.


    Nonetheless, his emotions had to die, for once and forever.


    There''s no turning back now.


    Zeo walked forward and stared the young girl straight in the eyes. Stella averted her gaze, trembling, and Zeo understood that no matter the outcome, his endeavor would haunt him for the rest of his days.


    He bowed to her and smiled, knowing it was the least he could do for her. "Stella. . . Let''s do our best."


    *¡ã*¡ã*


    <u>Next Chapter</u>: December 17 (Updating weekly from now on)

 60: Fateweaver

    Remnya


    Ozura remained silent for what seemed hours, her eyes staring blankly at the wall and her fingers twitching around her tea cup. Remnya sat still, fearing her next words and wondering why Merle hadn''t saved Vladimore''s army as promised.


    Cold as ice, Ozura let out a short sigh and nodded. "Thanks for telling me. Now you can leave," she said, closing her eyes.


    Joan bobbed his head and rushed to leave the room while Remnya looked at the lady in confusion. She had expected any reaction but that one.


    "What will happen now?" Remnya asked, clawing the tablecloth.


    "Everything will go as planned, child," she murmured and sipped her tea. "I promised Vlad I would stay and protect this place, and that''s what I''ll do."


    "I don''t understand... Mr. Merle headed there. Why didn''t he arrive in time?"


    "Too many unforeseen events might occur on the battlefield, Remnya." She gazed into her pupils. "I don''t know if Vlad will ever return, but I do know Debrin won''t abandon them." She rested her eyes and made a long pause before whispering her resolution, "I''m in peace knowing that."


    Remnya tightened her lips and nodded vacantly, feeling the weight of duty crushing her shoulders.


    There was a short silence, and then Remnya stood up. "Thanks for the meal, miss Ozura," she murmured, grabbing her empty tea cup. "Please, excuse me now. There''s something I need to do." She bowed to Ozura and smiled at Brisa before heading outside.


    Ozura nodded while Brisa stared at her perplexed.


    Remnya crossed the front yard and took her Karx''s uniform that hung from the branch of a lemon tree. She adjusted her boots and strode toward the forest, ignoring the discomfort of her heavy clothes.


    There was no time to rest. War waited for no one.


    Near the creek, where Debrin used to sit to wash vegetables, Remnya found a good space for her venture. Crimson flames engulfed her arms, and her eyes focused on the horizon, where clouds began to descend over the emerald relief of mountains. Remnya took a deep breath and lowered her gaze toward several mossy rocks sprouting from the water.


    She focused on her targets and began practicing her aim by trying to destroy each one of them.


    Imagining each rock looked like Persen''s head helped, and before midday, Remnya had already obliterated all her targets. Her fire control had drastically improved over the past months.


    The next stage was working on her body, so she ran several laps around the house until her legs gave up. Surprisingly, her body had adapted to the heavy uniform, and despite running for two hours, she still had plenty of energy. However, the summer sun and her clothes seemed to cook her skin.


    Remnya continued with push-ups, planks, crunches, and every exercise she could think of until her muscles trembled with exhaustion.


    After five hours of non-stop training, she dropped to rest on the grass. Her whole body burned and sweat prickled her skin. Her heart kicked wildly in her chest, but Remnya knew she could endure much more. This is nothing compared to what Zeo must be going through, she thought and got up after a five minutes break to continue.


    "You should eat something," a voice said from behind the bushes.


    Remnya turned and saw Ozura standing by a tree with her arms folded.


    "I''m good," Remnya said as she hung from a tree branch and lifted her body.


    "Eating properly is key to become stronger."


    "I''ll eat later."


    Ozura chuckled. "If you wanted to train so bad, you could''ve asked me."


    "I don''t want to bother you, miss."


    "It''s no bother." Ozura sauntered toward her. "Your friend, Brisa, wanted to come check on you, but I told her it was better to leave you alone for now."


    "Thank you. She needs rest." Remnya released the tree branch and landed heavily on the ground. "Her baby will come soon."


    "That''s true." Ozura smiled, standing next to her, and offered her a bottle of lemon juice.


    Remnya took the bottle reluctantly. "Thank you." She inspected the juice.


    Ozura gave her a soft smile. "Debrin loves to make them whenever he can."


    "Really? He seems to love nature."


    "Oh, he does. If he could abandon society and live inside a tree, he would."


    Remnya stifled a chuckle. "I guess he can''t just abandon his people after all."


    Ozura brushed a strand of hair aside. "That''s the only reason most of us are still alive."


    Remnya lowered her gaze and swallowed. "Do you think Mr. Vladimore and his army will return?"


    A soothing breeze whistled between them, carrying leaves and the fallen petals of pink flowers.


    Ozura stared at Remnya for a moment and let out a silent sigh. "If what Joan said is correct, Vlad''s army has been under siege for the past two days. Even if Debrin and Merle make it through The Hunters, their chances of survival are scarce."


    "Isn''t there anything we can do to help them too?"


    "Yes." Ozura narrowed her eyes. "Our mission is to remain here and protect this place. Initially, I was going to accompany Vlad on this mission, but unlike our past missions into Crysalton, he had a bad feeling about this one. He asked me to stay and protect this place, and that''s what I am going to do."


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    Remnya clenched her fists and nodded, fighting the impotence of her uncertainty. However, she had to trust Debrin and Merle. They had a mission, and she had her own.


    Ozura leaned a tender hand on Remnya''s shoulder and stared deeply into her eyes. "Come, have something to eat and recover some energy. After that, you can continue with your training. Your friend, Brisa, is waiting for you."


    With a sigh of resignation, Remnya bobbed her head and accepted the offer. Brisa must be worried.


    *¡ã*¡ã*


    Zeo


    A burning gust of wind wiped Zeo''s face as the first fight started. Arkor charged at his opponent like a freight train and hardened his right arm, turning his skin into a blade. His skill was called Iron Maiden and allowed him to turn parts of his body into solid metal.


    Arkor''s opponent was a hybrid boy called Uvex, who lacked any unique ability. However, his fighting skills and experience surpassed Zeo''s by far. The boy drew two swords he always carried on his back and waited for the impact.


    They clashed into a deafening burst of sparks and steel, releasing a shockwave that shook the ground. Zeo understood that he''d need to train much harder to stand a chance in hand-to-hand combat with any of them.


    A distraction ended the fight before the two minutes mark.


    Uvex lost focus for one second, allowing Arkor to sever his head with a brutal slash of his arm. A shower of blood reddened the arena, and Arkor smirked, victorious.


    Zeo observed the young boy, his headless body still twitching awkwardly. Zeo realized that, no matter what, if he wanted to keep his head, he couldn''t hesitate to kill.


    The next match faced a couple of girls, Kristina and Myrian. Their faces displayed hesitation and fear, yet they exchanged a deep look of resignation. Pyon licked his lips, craving to see the despicable spectacle, where one of the two lovers had to die.


    But as Zeo expected, the girls couldn''t kill each other. They fought bravely, but none of their attacks showed a killer''s intent, and their disgusting judge saw it. The ten minutes finished, and Pyon''s face was a tempest of hatred. He only uttered two words: "Devil''s Mouth."


    The lovers would suffer the worst destiny, yet their faces showed they had accepted to die together.


    Three more fights followed, and on each, one perished.


    Finally, it was Zeo''s turn. He closed his eyes, took a deep breath, and walked forward. Someone whispered something in his ear, but Zeo didn''t listen; he didn''t care. He was the owner of his fate.


    Stella walked from the other corner. She was pale, and her boots against the ground hesitated with each step. Yet, when Zeo looked into her green eyes, he saw her will to survive. She took a fighting stance and glared at Zeo, her pupils penetrating his body like poisonous blades.


    Zeo''s plan was simple: as soon as Pyon roared his command, he''d stab Stella''s chest and arms with his vectors. She was a skillful fighter and could manipulate daggers like a stealthy leopard. However, if Zeo managed to disable her arms, she would become easy prey.


    The wind fell still, and sharp silence cut through the battlefield.


    "FIGHT!" Pyon roared.


    Zeo''s vectors emerged from under Stella''s feet, aimed at her chest and arms.


    The young girl jumped like a feline, evading his attack. Airborne still, Stella drew her poisoned daggers, and with great agility, she tossed two at Zeo.


    He saw them, but his body couldn''t move in time. Instinctively, he summoned a magnetic field like the one he had used to protect Remnya that day.


    The daggers exploded against his energy and fell to the ground. But when Zeo tried to counterattack, Stella landed behind him and shoved a dagger toward his face.


    Zeo evaded her attack by inches. Though the blade cut his cheek, and the poison penetrated his blood. A burning sensation spread through his face, but a second dagger approached his neck before he could process the pain.


    This time, his vector stopped the attack, penetrating Stella''s arm, which forced her to drop the weapon. She recoiled in pain and tried to grab another dagger from the ground, but Zeo lunged at her and smashed her face with a powerful fist.


    Stella took several steps backward, yet she didn''t fall. Instead, the girl whirled toward him and, quick like lightning, impacted his jaw with a sidekick, sending Zeo to the ground.


    He couldn''t believe her strength, and his head felt like spinning after the impact. Stella grabbed her dagger and charged at him, but another vector snatched her ankle, causing her to whip the ground with her body.


    That''s when Zeo saw it. An opportunity to end the fight.


    All he had to do was send his free vector toward her head and penetrate her brain.


    And it''d be over.


    It''s over.


    Silence.


    But hesitation clouded his mind.


    . . .


    His vector missed her head, only scratching her neck, and buried into the ground.


    Unable to break free from his vector, Stella lifted her face and took her last chance. From the ground, she threw the dagger in her hand at him.


    Zeo couldn''t react, and the blade penetrated his shoulder. He let out a groan of pain while his arm became paralyzed due to the poison. He released Stella, and the girl began running toward him. On her way, she grabbed another dagger from the ground.


    Her eyes revealed a killer intent; if she reached him, it''d be over. Yet, his body didn''t move. The poison had begun to take effect, paralyzing his muscles.


    Before he could process the burning pain in his organism, Stella was already looming over him, with her eyes full of fury and tears.


    Zeo understood. Her tears revealed a truth he had tried to ignore. His strength, the will, the fury, feeding his vectors, the same one that could kill Skado and hold down Edo, that strength didn''t belong to him.


    Remnya gave her that strength.


    Without his best friend, that fight was pointless for him.


    Death stared at him from behind Stella''s shadow.


    It was over.


    "We made a promise!"


    Zeo recognized a voice in the silence of his mind.


    "You can''t die yet!"


    . . .


    "You''re right, Rem," Zeo murmured, grabbing the dagger that penetrated his shoulder.


    Stella dropped her arm over him, trying to stab his neck.


    Not today.


    Zeo rolled sideways, dodging her attack, and snatched the dagger out of his skin with a violent yank of his arm. A cascade of blood flowed from the hole in his shoulder, yet he didn''t care.


    With a lung of his whole body, he lurched at a startled Stella, burying the dagger into her stomach and then slicing her belly in half, releasing a shower of blood over his face.


    She dropped her weapon and staggered backward, her face turning pale as she held her abdomen, trying to keep her entrails from falling to the ground. She dropped to her knees, coughing blood.


    Zeo stood up, wiping his face with the back of his hand, and dropped the dagger. It was over.


    Dizzy, Zeo loomed over Stella and stared at her for a moment. That girl in front of him had already given up. She trembled in pain and lowered her head, accepting her fate. A single slice of his vectors could end her misery.


    His vectors buzzed through the air like thousands of angry wasps and looked for her neck.


    . . .


    Yet, they stopped, caressing her skin.


    Zeo didn''t move an inch and stood still silently, witnessing the brutality of his will to survive while the seconds passed.


    I''m the owner of my fate.


    . . .


    "I''m done," Zeo said, turning his back to Stella.


    Pyon''s smirk turned into a face of disgust. "What the hell are you saying, crossbreed? FINISH HER NOW!"


    Zeo said nothing and looked at him defiantly.


    "If you don''t, you''ll be one sent to the Devils'' Mouth! OBEY NOW!"


    "I don''t give a shit," Zeo spoke firmly and lifted his gaze at his companions. "Unlike you all, I''ll be the one who chooses my fate, not some asshole I don''t respect."


    Pyon strode toward Zeo''s, penetrating his soul with a deep glare, and stopped in front of him. "Fucking crossbreed, I''ll kill you right here, right now!"


    Zeo stared at him and smirked. "Go ahead, do it," he said, knowing that pathetic man had no power over him anymore.


    His fist shook the entire world around him, yet he was still alive. Zeo spat a mouthful of blood and giggled, confirming his suspicions.


    Pyon lowered his gaze, burying his fingernails into his palms. He gritted his teeth and roared a command, "Training is over!"


    *¡ã*¡ã*


    <u>Next Chapter</u>: December 24

 61: Departure

    Zeo


    The sound of metal against flesh and bones resounded throughout the arena as Pyon whipped Zeo''s back with a spiked chain. His blood rolled down his skin, staining the ground, while the shackles around his wrists cut his skin. However, Zeo remained stoic and still on his knees, with his mind focused on the next battle. No matter what that beast did to him, he would never own his fate.


    Most of his companions had been dismissed, except for the losers of each battle, alive and dead. They watched the punishment with aversion, knowing their fates would be worse. Much worse. Zeo pitied them more than himself and thought the mangled corpses lying on the ground were the luckiest.


    "What are you doing?"


    Zeo recognized Marakudra''s voice echoing in the distance.


    Pyon stopped immediately and bowed to her. "My lady," he said. "I''m punishing the disobedience of this recruit."


    "Is that so?" She furrowed her eyebrows and twisted her lips. "What order did he refuse to follow?"


    "He refused to end the life of his defeated opponent, displaying great cowardice and disrespect for our sacred rules."


    Marakudra stared at the scene in silence for a tense moment and then spoke coldly, "Release him now."


    Pyon nodded and rushed to unlock the shackles around Zeo''s wrists. Zeo ignored his open wounds and stood calmly. He bowed to Marakudra and straightened his blood-stained back.


    "How many died today?" Mara asked, scanning her surroundings with disgust.


    "Eleven and five more will be sent to the Devil''s Mouth." Pyon spoke pridefully, a smile spreading across his face.


    Mara''s eyes displayed a tempest of hatred. She strode toward Pyon and snatched his neck, burying her claws into his skin. "I told you to get rid of the weakest ones." Her voice deepened into a suppressed roar. "So tell me, why is it that I see some of our most promising soldiers dead or on the verge of dying?"


    "My lady," Pyon mumbled, struggling to breathe but locking his pupils on his captain. "They were incapable of coping with the pressure of a real battle. We need no such burden in the battlefield. Especially not when facing the forces of Debrin Kavram."


    "Stupid bastard! We''re in no conditions to dispose of valuable canon fodder. I thought you were smarter than this." She glanced at Zeo and then glared at Pyon, increasing the pressure around his neck. "Now, go make sure that each one of the wounded ones survive because if a single one of them die, you''ll lose way more than one eye and an arm." She shoved Pyon away from her and walked toward Zeo. Pyon bowed and rushed to Stella, who bled on the ground, unconscious.


    Mara stood before Zeo, inspecting his wounds, and asked, "Can you walk?"


    Zeo nodded. The adrenaline in his body had numbed the terrible pain.


    "Good." She shoved a black pill in his hand. "Swallow that, or the poison will destroy your nervous system." Mara whirled and began to walk away, her steps long and firm and her intense peach perfume leaving an obnoxious aura behind her.


    Zeo swallowed the pill, which tasted sour and bitter, and turned to look at Stella. Pyon picked her up and shouted angrily at the doctors to rush to the battlefield. He hoped she would survive, even if part of him wanted to see Pyon tortured if she died.


    *¡ã*¡ã*


    Remnya


    Remnya''s arms trembled, her veins bulging as if about to explode. Sweat ached on her skin while the kicks of her heart resounded in her brain. Yet the imposing silhouette of Ozura stood unscathed behind a curtain of fire and smoke.


    "Not even a single one of your attacks have managed to touch me." Ozura tilted her head, looking disappointed. "Are you sure you are the fire child Debrin claims you to be?"


    "You''re just too fast!" Remnya shouted with frustration. No matter how fast she charged and launched her energy, that lady moved swiftly like a feather through the wind. Ozura''s feet seemed of cotton, and she reacted before Remnya could think.


    Brisa stared at them from a safe distance and rooted for her sister. However, Remnya felt undeserving of such fearsome power.


    "Remember, ten fails, and you get hit." Ozura smirked.


    Remnya took a deep breath and tried to focus. Even though that lady didn''t use her hands to hit her, her wind whip attacks felt like the slap of rocks against her cranium. She had been close to losing consciousness twice but, driven by sheer will, managed to recover. Plus, not only Brisa was watching, Karx was too.


    Biting her lower lip, Remnya charged another crimson fireball. Unbearable heat filled her body, causing her blood to boil, and with a violent jerk of her arm, she threw it at Ozura as fast as possible.


    The flames hissed by the lady as she moved aside, searing grass and soil and leaving a trail of glowing embers. It exploded in the distance, shaking the ground and shooting burning debris everywhere that set aflame new trees.


    Ozura rushed to smoother the fire using her wind, and then with a stealthy movement of her hand, fulfilled Remnya''s punishment. A gust of wind smashed Remnya across the face, sending her to the ground with her mouth bleeding.


    "That''s it for today," Ozura said, stretching her neck, and wiping the dust off her beautiful Karx uniform.


    "I can still fight!" Remnya yelled, placing her fists against the ground and forcing her body to stand up.


    "You can, but it''ll be a waste of time." Ozura sauntered over to Remnya and looked down her nose at her. "Your attacks are becoming slower and clumsier. Go rest and recharge your energies for tomorrow."


    The last sun rays faded on the orange horizon, which meant they had been training for six hours. Remnya lowered her head and bit her lower lip, tasting the blood of defeat. She knew Ozura was right.


    "Food will be ready soon, so make sure you clean yourself before sitting at the table." As Ozura began to walk away, Brisa rushed to Remnya''s side.


    Reading on this site? This novel is published elsewhere. Support the author by seeking out the original.


    "You did great, Rem," Brisa assured, wiping the blood from her face with a soft handkerchief. "And I mean it! I was astonished to see how fast and skillful you are now! It''s like you''re a completely different person compared to that time in the mansion."


    "Really?" Remnya asked vacantly. "It''s still not enough."


    "Perhaps, but you''ve progressed a lot. It''s just a matter of time before you unlock your true potential. Trust me!"


    Remnya stared at Brisa for a moment and smiled. "If you say so. But tomorrow, I plan to do it. I will finally get her!"


    "I''m sure you will."


    Remnya returned inside with Brisa and took a shower to remove the layers of ashes, sweat, and blood from her body. As the water washed away the battle marks, her mind wandered away, wondering how Zeo was holding back in The Hunters. She didn''t care what they said, she would return for him and fulfill her promise, no matter what.


    When the night settled in, Remnya and Brisa ate with the rest of the army outside. Ten men and three women remained with them in the camp; respectful people with a tendency to drink too much, except for Ozura, who only drank tea and water. Brisa shifted awkwardly in her seat as suspicious stares landed on her once in a while, but Remnya could not see malice in them, only justified concern.


    They finished, thanked for the food, and moved far from the ruckus the warriors had started as they drank, shouted, and played unfamiliar yet upbeat music.


    A pale crescent moon peeked at them from behind the Crysalton hills, reflecting on Brisa''s golden eyes. As they caught up with each other and the events from the past months, Remnya finally dared to ask about that night when Ronner saved her sister''s life.


    Brisa didn''t hesitate and revealed every detail, making Remnya shiver with her heavy words.


    A long silence lingered in the forest.


    Her sister stared deeply into her eyes and grabbed her hand. "Rem, nothing will change the horrible things he did . . . but neither will I live the rest of my life with hatred in my heart."


    Remnya nodded, squeezing her sister''s hand, and thought for a moment before speaking. "If you forgave him . . . " She took a deep breath. "Then I forgive him too."


    Brisa gaped at her. "Are you sure about what you''re saying?"


    "I am." She raised her voice and narrowed her eyes. "I want to focus on the future too, not the past. Even if I hated Ronner, I''m still grateful he kept his word and protected you two." She smiled, caressing Brisa''s abdomen. "Now we have a lot of things to look forward to, don''t we?"


    "We do." Brisa beamed at her. "And I''m convinced everything happened for a reason, but soon, life will smile upon us again."


    "It will. Soon, you, Zeo, and I, will be together again."


    *¡ã*¡ã*


    Zeo


    Four days passed, but the promised one finally arrived.


    Heavy fog covered the dawn, freezing Zeo''s nostrils as he stood still in front of Aerodrome Number 3, from where he and his companions would depart toward an unknown fate. He was clad in his new uniform; a dark-blue Aramix jacket with the cobalt emblem of The Hunters, boots, and combat pants with multiple pockets to hide every indispensable item for the battlefield.


    The potent lights of the aerodrome drew gold lines through the mist, yet Zeo could barely see beyond the reach of his arms. Arkor stood beside him with his unreadable smile and two guns on his back. Kristina stood behind him next to Myrian: the two never left each other''s side. Zeo thought they were like conjoined twins.


    After an anxious wait, Marakudra emerged from the fog, accompanied by Pyon and Edo. Over her uniform, she wore a long black coat that resembled an exotic gothic dress while her Hunter emblem gleamed on her left shoulder. Her buckled hair was held tightly by a carmine bandana, and her serious face displayed rock-hard determination. Zeo had never seen her fight, but Marakudra truly looked like a vicious panther ready to tear off her enemies.


    The leaders stopped in front of the army, but Mara stepped forward. "Unlike the men here, I don''t like losing my time with pointless, flamboyant speeches," she said, twisting her thick lips. "Many of you will die today, I hope you know that. Kavram''s army might be weakened, but they won''t go down without a ferocious fight. Our job is to back up Medeo''s Army and secure the south region of Lacacia by annihilating the remnants of Karx." Marakudra made a pause as three crimson lights in the sky turned the fog into a bloody mist.


    The roar of three aircraft shook the ground like an earthquake as they landed behind Marakudra, who stood unfazed with her pupils locked on her army. A gust of violent hot wind hit Zeo in the face as the metal beasts came to a halt and lowered the power of their massive jet engines.


    "It''s time to go." Marakudra cracked her neck from both sides and smirked. "I''ve divided each army based on your experience and skills. You can check your phone, there is all the information you need." She turned her back to them. "Team A comes with me, Team B with Pyon, and Team C with Edo. Now stop lazing around and follow your assigned leader." She strode toward the planes.


    Zeo didn''t need to check his phone; he knew where he belonged. He was the first to advance toward his fate, keeping his gaze locked on Marakudra''s imposing figure. Yes, dear Captain . . . You''re right. Many of you will die tonight.


    The first aircraft was a combat jet designed to transport soldiers. Its aggressive shapes, matte black color, and crimson blinding lights on both wings made it look like a metal bat from hell. As Zeo approached it, the intense heat of its two engines made him forget the gelid morning. Either from the heat or anxiety, Zeo began sweating when he stood next to the plane. Marakudra gave him a sidelong glance and smirked before hopping on the wing and stepping into the aircraft.


    "There''s no stairs . . . " Kristina murmured behind Zeo. She had been separated from Myrian and looked terrified.


    "I''ll help," Zeo said, turning to her and summoning his vectors. They grabbed the hot metal of the wing and pulled Zeo over it. "Hold my Vector, I''ll pick you up," he told Myrian, who looked back at him in disbelief.


    "I can''t see it," she whispered.


    "Right in front of you."


    She swatted the air until his spectral arm touched her hand. Zeo grabbed and pulled her with him over the wing. She didn''t seem to react, but her dilated pupils told him everything he needed to know.


    Zeo helped the rest of the team to get on, and finally, he walked toward the door. The smell of jet fuel and burnt metal had permeated his nose when he glimpsed the first sunbeam through the thick fog.


    He stepped into the plane, and the heavy atmosphere from the exterior changed. The air inside felt light and clean, and the temperature was much more comfortable. Two long rows of seats lay on each side of the plane corridor. Zeo saw no windows but small LED screens on each side to look at the exterior.


    Marakudra sat on the first seat alone. Her eyes were closed as she relaxed, listening to music. However, the rest of his companions were a tangled mix of anxiety, fear, and hyperactivity. Zeo walked the corridor to the last seat, where he sat alone and lay his head on the cold digital window.


    The door closed with a loud clank that silenced the loud buzz of the idle engines outside. Everything felt eerily quiet until the first engine started. The whole aircraft vibrated, and Zeo could see the crimson flames of the afterburners coming out of the right-wing. When the second engine started, the vibration became almost unbearable, and the sound loud enough to deafen him. Zeo became dizzy but held his own. However, some of his companions looked on the verge of a breakdown.


    There was a short moment, and then Zeo''s felt as if a mountain had smashed against his whole body. The crimson afterburners turned blue, and the aircraft took off, burying Zeo deep into his seat. The G forces were such that he couldn''t move a single part of his body, and his eyes felt like they were blowing up.


    In three seconds, the aerodrome and the lights from the Hunters Headquarters disappeared, and the ground was covered by gray and white clouds. Zeo could barely appreciate the transition because of the intense headache and burning sensation in his eyes.


    Finally, the G forces stopped when the aircraft reached its maximum speed, and Zeo could finally move his head to observe his surroundings. The gloomy gray atmosphere outside had turned into a light blue sea of tranquility with a white cotton bed covering the earth.


    Murmurs started around the plane as his companions began to relax and play jokes on each other. But Zeo focused on his mission: killing every Karx soldier in sight.


    Only twenty minutes had passed when the plane began a steep descent into enemy territory.


    Zeo felt like floating as gravity disappeared, and his body lost all its weight, held only by his seat belt.


    Marakudra stood, imposing herself in the middle of the plane, unfazed by the forces pulling at their bodies. Her heels were glued to the ground.


    "In one minute, the war will start," her voice boomed through the plane. "Give it your all and fight until the end and I''ll make you a promise."


    Silence.


    "I''ll grant freedom to the warrior who brings me Lieutenant Vladimore''s head."


    *¡ã*¡ã*


    <u>Next Chapter</u>: January 1

 62: Resolution

    Zeo


    The Siege of Lacacia was the name given to the mission carried out by The Hunters, and its main goal was to undermine Debrin Kavram''s army by cutting off their supplies and slowly killing their soldiers. The Great Leader of The Hunters, Azmon, knew someone like Debrin would never abandon their people to suffer such a pitiful fate, so he had planned ahead.


    Debrin''s army had already been reduced to half in the past two nights. The Hunters had the upper hand, and the remaining soldiers had no escape. Time was running out for them, while The Hunters had all the time in the world.


    The army led by Marakudra gathered around an ancient sequoia tree. Zeo lifted his gaze at the canopies hiding the sky like an umbrella intertwined with branches and foliage, where thousands of birds announced the advent of a new day. The last morning for many, and Zeo wondered if it was his last one too. However, he had stopped fearing his last day long ago.


    Myrian stood behind Zeo, tightening her fists nervously, while the Captain paced around them, shooting piercing glances in search of doubts and fear.


    Finally, Marakudra halted before them, took a deep breath, and spoke too calmly. "I''ve already explained the details of our current mission, and I need you to focus on your own commands and nothing else." She locked her gaze on the recruits, who couldn''t stop trembling. "The main goal of group number one is to track and locate any soldier from Karx. However, you must avoid combat unless absolutely necessary. Group number two will take care of the offensive. Proceed the way we''ve trained before. Lastly, us, group number three," she looked at Zeo, "will remain in the rearguard and cover your asses while we wait for orders from Lord Azmon. Are we clear?"


    "YES, CAPTAIN!" the army shouted in unison while Zeo only nodded.


    Group one marched forward, leaving a trail of dust and leaves behind them. One minute later, group two did the same.


    As most of the group split, the silence of the forest filled the void. Marakudra ordered her soldiers to set up a camp and then sat on a tree stump, crossing her legs as she adjusted her radio and earphones for eventual new orders. Myrian and others built tents inside the gigantic trees while the rest climbed them to set up observation points. Zeo and five more were tasked with patrolling the surroundings for any suspicious activity.


    Twenty minutes passed.


    Zeo was feeding a deer when he spotted a red flare hissing in the sky; they had found Karx''s soldiers.


    Immediately, Marakudra eased from her seat and raised her hand, ordering them to remain still and silent. A few seconds went by until the radio beeped in her hand.


    "Captain, captain?" someone said on the radio.


    "Speak." Marakudra scowled.


    "Fourteen individuals, mostly hybrids. I don''t detect any large source of energy, though. Level of danger: B."


    "Alright. Proceed as planned. Distract them and avoid direct confrontation until group number two begins the attack."


    "Roger, captain."


    Marakudra lowered the radio from her face and smirked. "Pay attention to the sky. Ambushes are likely," she whispered and pointed in different directions for her army to move. "Zeo." She locked her gaze on him, and Zeo quickly stood before her. "I need you to use your Vectors to detect the presence of enemies. You can do that, can''t you?"


    Zeo widened his eyes and nodded. "I can''t fully control it yet, but I can do it."


    "Good. I need you to focus. I want to reduce our casualties as much as possible."


    "Understood," Zeo said, hitting his chest with his fist to salute his Captain. He walked up to a tree and used its roots as aids for his Vectors. He had done it before to detect enemies when he and Ronner looked for Remnya. However, his motivation had changed, and hesitation seemed to invade his body.


    As the minutes passed, the uneasiness in Zeo''s chest intensified. His hands sweated as he buried them into the moist soil and focused on the sounds of the earth. From the books he had read at The Hunters'' library, he knew Air and Earth were closely related, almost symbiotic. Unlike elementals like Fire and Electricity, Air wasn''t a manifestation of a chemical reaction but a manipulation of the environment.


    An electric current traveled through his body.


    Zeo felt multiple presences right beneath his feet.


    "Captain!" he shouted, pointing north from where the energy emanated abruptly like magnetic waves.


    "Those pathetic fools!" Marakudra hissed, burying half her arms into the ground.


    The fresh atmosphere of the forest turned into a heavy and hot fog that engulfed the army. Waves of vapor oscillated in the distance, blurring reality while the heat intensified, almost burning Zeo''s skin.


    Marakudra let out a feline roar and shot two streams of fire from her hands.


    The ground shook, and every tree began to burn as her fire traveled underground like magma.


    A piercing scream was heard in the distance, and a massive wall of molten rocks erupted from the ground like a volcano. Multiple bodies shot into the air, burning and screaming in pain.


    Mara took her arms from the ground, her hands still glowing and smoking, and shot a man in the sky, blowing him up with a fireball. Burnt corpses rained over the battlefield, along with flaming body parts.


    Zeo grimaced at the reek of burnt flesh, hair, and bones as he dodged a burning leg that landed next to him.


    "Pitiful," Mara said, stepping on a roasted torso and crushing it with her boot. "They truly believed hiding underground would work against me?"


    . . .


    "It did, you stupid bitch."


    Mara and Zeo turned toward a dying man whose body smoked on the ground. He smirked at them and pressed a trigger he held in his remaining hand.


    The ground glowed and then expanded as a powerful blast engulfed everything and everyone in sight.


    Zeo thought his end had come.


    But Marakudra jumped over him and summoned her fire to shield them from the blast.


    Nonetheless, the explosion sent them into the air, flying several meters away, while the rest of their army vanished into hell.


    Silence.


    The next thing Zeo knew was that he lay on the ground, and his skin burned as if melting. As he forced himself to sit up, he saw his arms red and throbbing, covered in blood.


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    "Damned bastards!" Marakudra roared, standing up with part of her coat torn apart and blood across her face, yet she looked mostly unscathed. She turned to Zeo, her eyes sending shivers down his spine. "Get up, soft boy. You''re alive."


    Zeo ignored the pain traveling throughout his body and obeyed. Staggering, he regained balance and took a deep breath. He noticed his nostrils blocked by ashes and began coughing and sneezing.


    "It seems like those sisterfuckers managed to halve my army. Curse them all!" Mara strode toward the crate left by the blast, and Zeo followed her.


    The sun had been completely blocked by the smoke and dust rising into the atmosphere, turning the morning into twilight.


    At the core of the explosion, the ground still glowed like the mouth of a volcano, and multiple corpses rested buried under molten rock and ashes. Zeo remembered Myrian was nearby and began calling for her and the rest of his companions unsuccessfully.


    "There''s no use," Mara said and sighed. "She and the rest must''ve been obliterated too."


    Zeo tightened his lips and clenched his fists. "Why did you save me?"


    Mara chuckled and looked at him with contempt as if he were asking the most stupid question. "Because you''re not disposable like the rest. Why else?"


    Zeo expected that answer, yet he still felt pathetic and disappointed.


    "I wonder if this shit still works." Marakudra tried to get her radio to call the rest of her army, but it never turned back on. "Well, dammit!" She smashed it into the ground.


    "We should gather with Pyon and Edo," Zeo suggested, looking left and right for enemies. "We''re completely exposed here."


    "Nonsense." Mara cracked her knuckles and neck and then pointed at the horizon, where an orange glow embraced the forest. "The battle has already begun. No matter where we go, death is everywhere." She smirked. "We''ll fight and tear apart those Karx''s bastards today."


    Zeo swallowed and nodded, knowing he had no other choice. He was a Hunter, and Karx wanted his head too.


    They strode through the forest, following the glow in the darkened, cloudy sky. Dismembered corpses lay under Zeo, some still moving and moaning in agonizing pain. Amid the death toll, he recognized Myrian''s remnants buried under molten rocks, and his body halted on its own. Zeo grimaced in frustration as he witnessed the gruesome image but shook his head and forced himself to continue.


    As they drew closer, Zeo overheard the screams of the battle, and the ground quaked under his feet.


    A short silence.


    A cobalt flash blinded Zeo, similar to Ronner''s energy.


    Marakudra stopped abruptly and pushed Zeo away.


    An explosion destroyed the forest in front of them, shooting burning wood and rocks like bullets. A few hit Zeo, but most were deflected by Marakudra''s energy.


    From the black smoke lingering around them, a prominent figure emerged. Zeo widened his eyes when he recognized a Nephilim: a tall, bulky man with slicked-back silver hair and multiple scars. His eyes glowed silver too, and a smirk was plastered across his face.


    "You two are the only ones left?" he asked, folding his arms. "Damn, I thought this would be funnier."


    "Who the fuck are you?" Marakudra took a fighting stance, and her hands began to glow red.


    "Oh, pardon my manners." He bowed and then winked at them. "My name is Merle, captain Merle."


    "Captain Merle?" Marakudra''s face turned pale as her eyes dilated.


    Zeo was taken aback by her reaction and scanned the man from head to toe. He emanated an imposing aura, and his eyes seemed to penetrate his soul like blades. But the strangest thing about him was his nauseating reek of alcohol.


    "Why? Why are you here?" Marakudra shouted desperately. "You sent your army to its death! You betrayed Debrin Kavram, then WHY? WHY ARE YOU HERE?"


    "So, you are the coward who betrayed them?" Zeo spat, driven by fury. That man''s actions could lead to Remnya''s death, he knew.


    Merle chuckled and brushed a strand of silver hair aside from his face. "I betrayed no one. You people really thought Debrin would show up?"


    "You are the one who revealed the location of each one of your armies!" Mara roared, her clenched fists shaking. "You murdered most of the people who followed you. Isn''t that a betrayal?"


    "Is it?" Merle scratched his chin and tilted his head. "My army chose to fight for our cause, no matter what. Part of it required sacrifices; whether they knew it or not, it didn''t matter. All their deaths had a purpose, which was, luring the stupid hunters into our party." He guffawed.


    "You sent your people to die? Did they even know?" Zeo asked, gritting his teeth.


    "Most didn''t know. However, they admired us as their leaders. We gave them a reason to live and die. Their lives served a purpose, and the fall of The Hunters is around the corner." He smirked. "Right now, Debrin is taking advantage of this distraction to annihilate everyone in The Hunters'' Headquarters. Not even Azmon could predict this."


    "Rem . . . " Zeo murmured, his heart sinking in his stomach. "Maria . . . "


    "No way!" Marakudra took one step backward as her whole body glowed.


    "Yes, way!" Merle stepped forward with a creepy smile. "Now, it''s time for you two to say goodbye too."


    Marakudra seemed to hesitate, but Zeo stepped forward, driven by unknown emotions. "I sent Remnya with you because I thought you were better than The Hunters! But it turns out you''re just as miserable, you disgusting piece of shit!" Zeo''s eyes burned, and his vectors spread across the forest, glowing green and slicing everything in their path.


    "Remnya?" Merle widened his eyes. "You know the crimson knucklehead?"


    "What?" Zeo froze for a moment.


    "Oh!" Merle grinned and bobbed his head to himself. "It makes sense. You''re the Anglish boy she was talking about."


    "Where is Rem?" Zeo asked, invaded by confusion.


    "Don''t worry, boy. She''s safe and sound. Debrin made sure to take good care of her."


    A strange relief eased Zeo''s heart for a moment, yet he couldn''t trust a man who had just sent his army to a horrible death.


    "Once I''m done with this hunter rat, I''ll take you to see your friend." Merle smirked and then gave Mara a death stare. "Let''s finish this quickly, darling."


    "As if!" Mara bellowed while massive flames engulfed her right arm.


    She tried to shoot her energy at Merle, but the big man charged at her faster than lightning, closing the distance, and smashed his giant fist against her jaw, sending her to the ground.


    Marakudra sprang from the ground and tried to retaliate but was met by multiple blows to the face and body. Blood spurted from her nose and mouth as her body was buried into the ground by the brutal force of Merle''s punches.


    Overpowered, she let out a groan of pain as Merle sprawled over her and snatched her neck with his left hand while his right arm began to glow white with blue sparks. A thick layer of ice formed around his muscles, creating a blade he pointed at Mara''s head.


    Marakudra''s face displayed resignation, and her eyes dilated, knowing she couldn''t fight anymore.


    Merle lunged forward to sever her head from her body.


    Moved by sheer instincts, Zeo charged at Merle and, using all the strength of his vectors, managed to push him away, causing his ice blade to miss Marakudra''s neck by inches.


    Merle turned to him and staggered with wide-open eyes and a smile. "What you doing, kiddo?" he asked with a hint of amusement.


    Zeo stood between him and Marakudra while his vectors hissed through the air. "Paying my debts," he said firmly, with no hesitation in his actions.


    He glanced at Mara as she struggled to sit up and looked at him in disbelief. "Why are you doing this?" she murmured.


    "Life for life," Zeo replied, knowing he could be making the biggest mistake of his life. But he had decided to be the owner of his own fate. No matter what Merle said, he couldn''t trust him. On the other hand, even if Marakudra was a monster, she had saved his life twice. "What kind of warrior would allow his savior to die such a pitiful death?"


    "This is a huge mistake, boy." Merle shook his head, disappointed. "Are you sure you want to go against me? You gonna give up your friend again because of these people?"


    "I''ll see my friend again, regardless of you or anyone." Zeo spat, glaring at him. "I''ll write my own fate, and so will Remnya. I still have a mission here, so fuck you!" His vectors went crazy and hissed like thousands of bees.


    Merle stifled a chuckle. "You got guts. I''ll give you that, but," he cracked his knuckles, "can you protect her? I can get through your vectors and end her life easily. You know that."


    Zeo held his ground while his vectors covered Mara''s body. "I''ll still try."


    Merle let out a deep sigh, smiled, and shrugged. "As you wish, kid." He charged at Zeo.


    Zeo clenched his fists and awaited the impact.


    However, Merle stopped inches away from him and turned his gaze toward the horizon.


    A powerful presence invaded the forest, crushing Zeo''s chest with its harrowing aura. The sky darkened, and heavy fog and the scent of death fell over them.


    "Such bad timing," Merle murmured, not taking his eyes away from the horizon.


    "Azmon Infernoz," Marakudra whispered in Zeo''s ears, holding his shoulders to stand up.


    "The leader of the Hunters?" Zeo''s jaw dropped.


    "I guess this is your lucky day, hunter lady." Merle chuckled, glancing at them with amusement. "Unfortunately, I''m not crazy enough to stay and fight that motherfucker on my own." His silver orbs scanned their pitiful states as he smirked. "Though, remember my words. When the day comes, Azmon and The Hunters will meet their demise. The time is running out for you, and Debrin Kavram will be the name you all will remember for the rest of your brief lives." Finally, his gaze locked on Zeo. "You''re really something, kid. I''ll tell Remnya you''ve turned into a man already."


    He winked at him, and then the ground exploded under his feet, sending Zeo and Mara to the ground with a powerful shockwave. Like lightning, Merle sprinted through the forest, leaving a trail of sparks and fire behind him until his body vanished into the dark mist of a dead land.


    *¡ã*¡ã*


    <u>Next Chapter</u>: January 7

 63: Emissary of Agony

    Zeo


    Amid the inferno devouring the forest remnants, an imposing figure emerged like a God Of Death, clad in a distinctive uniform with aggressive gold shapes and emblems contrasting the deep black Aramix of his coat, boots, and cape that waved like the flag of doom. His sole presence sent shivers through the ashes of those who had just perished in an unjust battle.


    "Lord Azmon," Marakudra murmured, pushing herself from the ground, aided by Zeo''s arm.


    Burning hatred revolted Zeo''s stomach as he observed the monster who, he knew, had always ruled their lives.


    Two prominent horns protruded from Azmon''s ash blonde hair that fell over his shoulders, swinging wildly against the burning wind. His deep ocean-blue eyes drilled into Zeo''s soul, freezing him in place until he stopped before them.


    "My lord," Mara said, burying her knee into the ground and lowering her head. She snatched Zeo''s arm and yanked him with her, forcing him to kneel. Zeo thought spitting at that bastard''s face was more fitting but obeyed his captain.


    Silence.


    "It seems like our dear Debrin played his cards masterfully this time," Azmon said, his voice soothing like velvet, and gestured at Marakudra to stand up. Zeo helped her to ease from the ground and allowed her to use his shoulder to keep her balance.


    "I apologize, my lord. Unfortunately, we were unable to catch Merle Zalah." Mara gritted her teeth, not daring to look Azmon straight in the eye with her bruised, swollen face.


    Azmon chuckled and returned a pitiful look. "I''m rejoiced to see you alive, Mara darling." He moved closer and grabbed Marakudra by the chin, forcing her to stare at him. "Your army served its purpose. No need to feel sorry about it."


    She widened her eyes at his words. "I apologize, my lord, but most of my army has been¡ª"


    "I know." Azmon twisted his lips into a gelid smirk, deep wrinkles filled with someone else''s blood drawing across his pale face. "That''s why I sent you on this mission. First and foremost, I needed to test what our friends from Karx were capable of. Now I''ve confirmed Debrin won''t hesitate to sacrifice his own people if it comes to snatching a pitiful victory from us."


    "My lord . . . " Mara clenched her fists, and her eyes displayed a spark of hatred. "Did my whole army perish so that you could test the enemy?" Her voice trembled.


    "Dear Mara." Azmon leaned closer, his long thick nose touching hers. "I would sacrifice the whole world if that meant achieving my goals." He kissed Mara''s cheek, tasting her blood. "Now, be thankful I allowed you to live another day. You''re a good servant," he whispered in her ear.


    Marakudra froze, her pupils flickering as if she held back her killer intent. Zeo observed her in silence and tightened his grasp around her arm, advising her not to do anything stupid.


    "Now, please return to your landing point. A plane should arrive soon to carry the remnants of your army back home." Azmon turned his massive back to them and began to walk away, leaving a gloomy aura behind his Nephilim tail.


    "Azmon," Zeo called without thinking, driven by his inner instincts. "Lord Azmon," he corrected himself and lowered his head.


    Azmon stopped and gave him a sidelong glance. He scanned him from head to toe and waited for the words that would seal his fate.


    "Forgive me for speaking to you, but I need to know, and I don''t think I''ll have another chance to ask you." Zeo lifted his gaze at him and clenched his fists. "Our fates . . . Remnya''s and mine, have they been written before we were even born?"


    The monster remained silent for a moment, and then a condescending smile pulled at his thin lips. "You''ve probably heard I am the one who wrote your fate, haven''t you?"


    Zeo''s pupils dilated.


    "I''ll just tell you one thing if that helps ease your unrestful heart, young man." He closed his eyes and made a long pause. "You were destined to be here, at this precise moment and place, asking me this question from the day you were born."


    A cold shiver ran down''s Zeo spine.


    "I knew of your existence since the day your parents died, as I know of the existence of thousands of others children born from Nephilims and Anglishes. In this endless war, they''re all destined to live and die for the greater good."


    "Why?" Zeo gritted his teeth. "What''s your goal?"


    . . .


    "Peace."


    That was his last word as his steps vanished in the distance. The hot wind carried embers and ashes that scratched Zeo''s face as he remained petrified, digesting those contradictory sentences.


    Silence.


    "Snap back to reality, kid. I need your help here!" Marakudra roared, gripping his arm.


    He stared at her, wondering if his plan would still work. "Captain," he whispered, taking a deep breath. "Why do you fight for this man?"


    Marakudra spat a mouthful of blood. "I don''t fight for him." She glared into the distance where Azmon had disappeared. "I fight for myself and my legacy. I couldn''t care less about that arrogant bastard." She buried her claws in Zeo''s shoulder and turned to him. "But like you, I have no choice but to follow his commands until I can earn my freedom."


    "Freedom, uh?" Zeo almost pitied her. "What do you want freedom for?"


    Marakudra hesitated for a moment. "Certainly not for me."


    Zeo witnessed a hint of humanity in Marakudra''s deadly eyes for the first time.


    "I want freedom . . . for someone else."


    *¡ã*¡ã*


    Debrin


    Flames charred the corpses piled up throughout the ruins of The Hunters'' Headquarters. Four captains had stayed to protect the place, yet it hadn''t been enough to stop the fury of the man who emerged like a reaper amid the chaos.


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    Debrin Kavram lifted his sunset eyes to the sky. A dense curtain of smoke lingered over the mountains, yet through his vectors, he could perceive the presence of crows and vultures circling the battlefield. He strode over the remnants of the soldiers who had charged toward him, commanded by their agonizing captains.


    The sacrifice of his people had been worth it. Vladimore and his army could rest in peace, knowing their final mission was one step closer.


    Debrin adjusted his backpack, a pink one with the face of a bear, where he stored every piece of information he could gather, plus a large batch of Netomics ready to use he had taken from the corpse of a captain. Opening a path through the flames, he headed toward the second building, searching for the last piece of information he needed.


    Two soldiers reached out for Debrin''s feet, begging him to end their misery.


    A buzz cut through the air as his vectors pierced both men in the heart. Nobody deserves to suffer anymore, he thought. It''ll be over soon. Ten more survivors pleaded for the same, and Debrin didn''t hesitate.


    The second building had been damaged by the explosions but didn''t collapse. Debrin rushed inside and inspected the place, filled with the red glow of emergency lights and the wail of the alarms. He noticed two women hiding behind a broken metal desk and strutted toward them.


    The oldest one let out a shriek of terror as he squatted in front of them. He put his fingers on her lips, silencing her, and spoke softly, "I need to find Maria Vramovic. Do you have any idea where she might be?" The younger woman nodded nervously and pointed toward an elevator on the other side of the hall. Debrin stared at it for a moment and asked, "That leads to the underground dungeons, am I correct?"


    She bobbed her head.


    "Thank you." Debrin stood up, and the older woman crawled under the desk in terror. However, he had never been interested in taking lives that didn''t threaten his mission.


    Since the elevator was damaged, Debrin decided to get to his destination through the ground. He sensed the presence of survivors under his feet and located his next objective. Focusing his strength on his right fist, Debrin punched the floor, shattering the metal and concrete into hundred pieces, and then opened his hand to release a beam of energy that perforated the earth.


    Flames and smoke spurted out of the hole as it dug the path toward the underground floors. Debrin jumped inside and reached a large corridor covered in darkness. However, he didn''t need his eyes to see. Guided by his vectors, he reached the hideout of the survivors.


    Debrin charged his energy on his fist and punched through the steel door, opening a hole for him to pass through. On the other side, ten armed soldiers waited for him. Their faces displayed fear as they raised their weapons nervously.


    "There is no use in fighting a losing battle, much less losing your lives for a man who has deemed you worthless pawns." Debrin took two steps forward, and everyone stepped back, some aiming their guns at his head. "Lay arms and live another day. I just came here for one person."


    "You won''t get away with this, Kavram!" A large man shouted, firing his weapon.


    The canon bullets impacted Debrin''s head and exploded, sending many soldiers to the ground with the shockwave. Though, such a reckless action had no effect on Debrin, who stood still unharmed.


    A vector pierced through the man, from his feet to his heart. He collapsed motionless under the terrified look of his companions.


    "I won''t repeat myself." Debrin walked forward, glancing at the soldiers who moved aside, lowering their heads and weapons, opening a path for Debrin to pass through toward his objective.


    In the last room, Debrin sensed the presence of the person he needed. Crushing a steel door with a powerful kick, he arrived at his destination. About twenty persons hid there, or rather, were held hostage. He scanned the faces in front of him; many displayed terror while others grimaced with hatred. But one of them showed a hint of hope.


    "Long time no see, Maria Vramovic," Debrin said, standing in front of her.


    "Debrin?" Maria said, her jaw dropping as her eyes dilated with confusion. "What are you doing here?"


    "You need to come with me." He rushed to scan his surroundings to recognize the witnesses and leaned closer. "You hold a valuable piece of information."


    Maria gasped, her lips trembling. "Are you here for that?"


    "That''s just one of the many reasons I am here." He folded his arms. "Honestly, I didn''t think you''d be alive."


    "Zeo saved me . . . again." Maria lowered her gaze and clasped her hands. "He swore loyalty to them in order to protect me."


    "That makes sense." He scratched his chin. "Back then, when you left our camp. You claimed you had one more mission to fulfill, yet you didn''t speak the truth."


    Maria averted her eyes and tightened her lips.


    Debrin continued, "Believe it or not, that little piece of information might make a huge difference in the upcoming war."


    "Can it, really?" she murmured.


    "Hopefully. At least, it''ll save several lives. That''s more than enough of a reason to make good use of it."


    "What do you want me to do?"


    "You need to come with me. Now."


    Silence.


    "I . . . " Maria hesitated. "I need to wait for Zeo. I can''t just abandon this place without him." Her eyes glistened with anxiety and concern.


    "Unfortunately, there''s no time nor choices." Debrin let out a deep sigh. "You will come with me right now."


    "I can''t," she whispered, the words barely leaving her trembling lips. "Besides, it''s Lady Magenta''s secret . . . She¡ª"


    "What is it that you''re hiding, woman?" a girl interrupted. Debrin turned to see a hybrid woman walking toward them, her piercing glare buried in Maria. "Go with him! Don''t you want these pieces of shit to pay for what they did to us? How long are we gonna be living under their boots?"


    "But, Alayna . . . " Maria hesitated as tears welled up in her eyes. "This is a promise I made to Lady Magenta."


    "Wasn''t she a victim of these bastards too? Wouldn''t she be happy if there''s the slightest chance to have her revenge?"


    Maria hesitated and locked her eyes on the ground.


    "So you''re Alayna," Debrin said, scanning the tall and malnourished woman beside him. She had been a warrior, no doubt, but her appearance revealed the humiliating treatment she had suffered.


    "And you''re the infamous Debrin Kavram, uh? I must say I expected a different kind of monster. You''re a lot less threatening than they claim you to be." Alayna stared deeply into his eyes. Several scars crossed her face, neck, and arms, and her dress was torn apart.


    "Ronner mentioned you before," Debrin said.


    Alayna grimaced in disgust and spat on the floor. "Yeah? Well, I''m glad that piece of pig meat is rotting in hell now."


    Debrin shrugged, and his eyes returned to Maria. "Listen to me." His pupils glowed in the darkness. "There''s no more time. It''s your choice whether you come with me willingly or not. Either way, we''re leaving this place."


    Tears rolled down Maria''s cheeks, and she wiped them with the back of her hand. "All you care about is destroying The Hunters, isn''t it?"


    "No," Debrin assured her firmly. "I want to end the war, and I''ll do whatever it takes to save whatever is left of humanity in this decaying world."


    "You''re not someone to be easily fooled. Let alone by someone like me." Maria glared at him. "You knew I was hiding something from you when I left the camp that night."


    "Of course I did." Debrin folded his arms. "That''s why I tracked you down to ensure the rumors were true."


    "Why didn''t you stop The Hunters when they found me? Why did you allow them to kill the remaining soldiers of Ronner guarding the mansion? WHY?" she shouted, her eyes spitting fire.


    Debrin remained silent, stood, and turned his back to her. "Enough talk. We''re leaving. Azmon is on his way." He began walking away.


    "Let me come with you," Alayna asked, rushing next to Debrin. "If there''s anything I can do to destroy these bastards, I will."


    Debrin gave her a sidelong glance. "Did your infatuation with The Hunters already fade?"


    "What?" She recoiled in frustration. "What do you know about me?"


    "Only what Ronner told me. Alayna Ledakyan, an aspiring member of The Hunters."


    "I admired and respected them, yeah, that''s true." She buried her nails in her palms and trembled with anger. "But that was before I learned who they really were. Before I found out they used me and my army as puppets to kill Ronner. I''ll never forgive them for that!"


    He stared at her for a moment and shrugged. "As you wish, but I can''t guarantee your life."


    "That''s fine. Anything is better than being their fucking pet." Alayna walked to Maria and snatched her arm. "Let''s go!"


    Maria didn''t try to resist and allowed Alayna to drag her to the door under the confused look of the remaining prisoners. Some begged Debrin to take them with him, but he ignored them and used his vectors to knock everyone unconscious.


    *¡ã*¡ã*


    <u>Next Chapter</u>: January 21

 64: The Last Straw

    Remnya


    The crimson flames had turned the training ground into a deserted land with carbonized trees and charred bushes. Craters spread sporadically, smoking, and a thick gray mist emerging from the ground blurred the dying sunlight on the horizon. Amid the chaos, Remnya loomed over the destruction with both arms covered in flames. Her eyes shot glares in every direction as she searched for Ozura, hoping one of her fireballs would finally reach her.


    Sweat rolled down her forehead, quickly evaporated by the intense heat. Most of her clothes remained undamaged due to the drastic improvement in her fire control; she could choose what and who to burn. However, Ozura was unlike anything she had faced before. The wind lady moved like a hurricane through the forest and hit just as hard every time Remnya failed her attacks.


    Remnya spotted a shadow charging at her and whirled in its direction to shoot a large stream of fire.


    Ozura evaded it at the last millisecond and struck her jaw with a fist heavy like concrete.


    The impact shook Remnya''s reality, and her surroundings spun around her head, but she regained balance and tried to retaliate with a sidekick to the stomach.


    Ozura deflected her attack with a swift of her right hand and answered with another kick that impacted Remnya''s back, sending her to the ground.


    As her face hit the burnt soil, she used her arms to bounce back on her feet and charged all her remaining energy into a fireball. With her last breath, she twisted her torso toward the lady and released her attack, letting out an angered roar.


    Ozura widened her eyes, realizing she could not evade it in time. Instead, she stopped it with her bare hands, buried her knees on the ground, and diverted her attack over her head, sending the fireball to detonate in the distance.


    The explosion sent burning rocks and debris flying toward them faster than sound. Some impacted Remnya, but stoically, she resisted the ferocious impacts opening wounds in her skin. Driven by sheer will, she tried to attack again, but her body didn''t respond anymore, forcing her to halt for oxygen.


    Ozura stood, smiling almost pridefully. "That was a close one." Her palms still smoked from the intense heat of her attack.


    "Not enough." Remnya shook her head, gritting her teeth.


    The lady stared at her for a moment and took a deep breath. She brushed a strand of hair out of her face, revealing two lines of sweat rolling down her forehead. "You made me work today. I believe you deserve a delicious meal."


    Remnya panted, wiping the blood from her mouth, and nodded without a complaint. It had taken her long to understand, but resting and eating were as important as training.


    After taking a bath, she sat at the table outside with Brisa, Ozura, and other members of her new family. Joan had prepared the food that night: roasted pork with apples and spices accompanied by mashed potatoes and carrots. His cooking was superior to anyone else''s, except when it came to sweet dishes, where Ozura''s skill shone the most.


    She filled her stomach, thanked the cook, and washed the dishes before leaving for the forest to think alone.


    Since Remnya began training, she refused to sleep on a bed again. Instead, she had decided to sleep in the forest until the day she rescued Zeo, and the silent nature slowly embraced her into its arms. Wild animals roamed nearby, such as pumas and jaguars, but Remnya was used to more dangerous beasts, and whenever she could, she tried to feed and pet the felines, who seemed to be more scared of her.


    As she tossed remnants of meat to a female jaguar with cubs, she overheard an old engine roaring in the distance. "Can it be . . . " Remnya petted the feline and rushed to return to the camp.


    In the distance, the clamor of people told her everything she needed to know.


    Captain Merle had returned.


    Remnya rushed to Brisa''s side and witnessed the old truck they had stolen parking under a tree. She shook her head.


    As the minutes passed and no other car arrived, the excited mood switched to tension and uneasiness. All the remaining soldiers became alert and surrounded the old truck. Remnya exchanged looks with Brisa and sharpened her senses for the unexpected.


    Mixed expressions merged among the warriors as Merle walked out of the vehicle alone, covered by deep wounds. The warriors opened a path for their captain until he halted in the middle of the crowd. He looked at them and smirked. "I see more long faces than I''d like."


    "Captain. Welcome," Ozura said, walking forward. She bowed and stared at him intently as if expecting an answer.


    Merle''s eyes revealed a hint of gloom as the campfires reflected on his pupils. "Ozura! Thank you for keeping this place safe during my absence."


    "It''s my duty," Ozura replied coldly and remained serious with her eyes locked on him.


    Merle let out a deep sigh and eased himself onto a tree stump by a fire. He drew a liquor bottle from his pocket and took a deep chug before looking at the warriors again.


    "Vladimore''s Army," he started, his voice sharp like a knife, "Alario''s Army and Inna''s Army. They''ve all been defeated by The Hunters."


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    Silence engulfed the night.


    Many soldiers lowered their heads, displaying signs of pain, frustration, and hatred. However, Ozura remained stoic and never took her gelid violet eyes from Merle. "Is he dead? Did you at least manage to retrieve their bodies?" she asked calmly, but tension danced on her lips.


    "Nothing was left there for me to retrieve, nor was it safe to do so." He finished his liquor. "I''m sorry."


    "I see." Those were Ozura''s last words. She turned her back to Merle and walked away, fading into the forest darkness.


    Nobody else said a word, and the crowd surrounding Merle dissolved.


    Hesitantly, Remnya walked closer to him, and as soon as the old man noticed her, he smiled. "It''s good to see you again, knucklehead."


    "Mr. Merle. I''m glad you''re alive."


    "So am I." He chuckled, patting her head; his hands felt like a hammer on her brain. "Did Ozura treat you well?" He inspected the cuts and bruises on her face.


    "She fed us very well, for sure." Remnya smiled.


    "That''s great then."


    Remnya clenched her fists and forced herself to ask, "How did they die?"


    "They died fighting, outnumbered, overpowered, but they died as true warriors."


    "Will Miss Ozura be okay?" She clasped her hands.


    "She''s a strong woman, and the war is cruel. They both knew it was a matter of time until death met either of them. She''ll be fine."


    Remnya nodded and bit her lower lip. "What about Debrin? Is he okay?"


    "Debrin is fine but needed to take care of something back there."


    "Is it safe for him to be alone out there?" Remnya widened her eyes.


    Merle guffawed and slapped her back, standing up. "The true question is, will the people out there be safe with him alone?"


    With those words, Merle walked away, drinking and whistling a sad war song.


    *¡ã*¡ã*


    Zeo


    The Hunters Headquarters was a shadow of what had once been. Kavram''s attack had left hundreds of corpses behind, destroyed critical infrastructure, stolen valuable information, and caused several prisoners to escape. However, a new fortress was born from the ruins within a few weeks. As ordered by Azmon, every remaining prisoner and low-rank soldier worked as slaves to rebuild his kingdom.


    Marakudra''s army had borne the brunt of it. With the loss of more than half of her people and Pyon missing, she was forced to appoint Edo to First Lieutenant again. Strengthening The Hunters'' forces after such a defeat was essential, so Azmon had tasked every captain with recruiting new members. Mara had no choice but to hunt for fresh blood. Otherwise, her position would be at risk.


    That afternoon, Zeo sat in the dining room, contemplating the remnants of his companions around him. Half of the tables were empty, and silence lingered like a ghost of gloom. Arkor sat across the table, fiddling with his tableware, and Kristina sat beside him with her eyes lost in nothingness. After the death of her girlfriend, Myrian, she spoke little and cried when she thought nobody saw her. Seeing the traumatic effects of that battle on his companions helped Zeo understand most of them were mere victims of a pointless war.


    They''re just scared kids, aren''t they?


    Zeo sighed and crossed his arms over the table, wondering why Kavram had taken Maria with him. The days seemed to move more slowly since her departure, but at least he was no longer tied to his duty of protecting her.


    This is for the best, he thought and closed his eyes.


    As a sun ray hit the table, reflecting on the roof, the clock marked three in the afternoon. Several faces showed resignation as everyone stood and began to leave the room. It was time for their scheduled meeting at the training grounds.


    In silence, they walked a long corridor illuminated by incandescent lights. Zeo spotted a familiar face joining them from the back: Stella. She had recovered from her wounds and strode with her eyes fixed on her destination. Zeo slowed his steps and searched for her eyes, but as soon as she noticed him, she shot him a deadly glare. He chose not to waste words on her.


    They arrived at the training grounds, where Marakudra waited amid the arena. Next to her, Zeo saw Edo, who was still recovering from the wounds of his battle with Vladimore''s army. Zeo stood at the front of the group and straightened his back to look at the captain.


    Marakudra stared through them, deep into the horizon, the sun reflecting on her fiery eyes.


    After a long silence, she uttered the first words of her speech. "As you all know, we''ve lost more than seventy percent of our army. Not only that, but our sister armies, led by captains Ifrit and Liodan, have also suffered major losses." She swept the warriors with a quick glare. "Our current situation leaves us no choice but to make drastic changes and decisions." Mara took a deep breath. "As ordered by Lord Azmon, we''re going to organize special search parties to track and find recruits fit for our army."


    "Figures," Zeo murmured.


    "After weeks of research conducted by my fellow captains and myself, we''ve managed to locate our best candidates in the town of Fallen Star." She looked at Zeo. "We''ve discovered at least five hybrid Nephilims under the age of fifteen inhabiting that place."


    Zeo widened his eyes as blood slowed in his veins, freezing.


    "Azlanin Zeo." Her gaze landed on Zeo like a punch. "You''ve been assigned to lead the first search party. Your mission is to find and bring at least three of those hybrid Nephilims before me." Her words resounded in Zeo''s brain over and over. "You''re allowed to take a maximum of three soldiers with you, who will obey your every command until you accomplish your task."


    Zeo clenched his fists, his throat burning with anger. "What if I refuse?" he spat defiantly, and the rest of his companions murmured behind him, trying to warn him.


    Marakudra wasn''t impressed by his words. She stared at him for a moment and spoke calmly, "Lord Azmon already knows about the existence of a hybrid Nephilim who lives in the same orphanage you were taken from. I personally asked him to allow my warriors to carry out this mission." She took one step forward and raised her voice. "And I highly doubt you''d want anyone else but you to carry out this mission. Am I wrong?"


    Zeo understood immediately, and his pupil dilated in shock. Those weren''t Marakudra''s commands but Azmon''s wicked games, where he pulled her strings like a puppet. If someone had to carry out that mission, it was him and no one else. He felt stupid for questioning his captain.


    "My apologies, captain," Zeo said, burying his nails in his skin. "It''ll be my honor to lead this mission."


    Marakudra narrowed her eyes and nodded before continuing her speech, but Zeo didn''t care about her words anymore; his mind was stranded in thoughts. He knew what she meant and hated himself for being unable to stop it.


    His mission was simple: return to the orphanage and find his little friend.


    Amy.


    His blood boiled, knowing Azmon was behind such a disgusting task. Of course, he knew about Amy''s existence from the day she was born. It had been almost two years since he left her behind, and now, she was ready to be part of The Hunters.


    Zeo wondered if there was anything he could do to protect her. Even if it were the last thing he did in his life.


    After contemplating his choices for long minutes, an idea popped up in the darkness of his mind.


    When Marakudra finished her speech, Zeo had made a decision, and his heart finally rested in his chest.


    Filled with determination, Zeo cursed the devil itself and swore to the sky that, no matter what, he would never allow those monsters to lay a finger on Amy.


    *¡ã*¡ã*


    <u>Next Chapter</u>: January 28

 65: Tangled Dream

    Remnya


    A bird chirped atop Remnya''s forehead as she rested on a thick tree branch. It hopped on her nose and pecked her bruised cheek before flying away as soon as she opened her eyes. A breeze caressed her skin and hair, dancing with the canopies above her. She sat up and stared into the horizon, witnessing the orange hue of the morning.


    Remnya jumped off the tree and landed heavily on the ground, blowing away a mattress of dried leaves before heading toward the creek to wash her face. The crystalline mountain water felt like ice but helped her numb the pain and remove her drowsiness.


    Merle''s return had brought drastic changes and forced Remnya to adapt to a harsher routine as he took over her training and released Ozura from her duty. It had been over one week since the last time anyone had seen the lady, and even though Merle downplayed her disappearance, the lack of answers made Remnya fear the worst.


    However, she had no time to worry anymore; sunrise meant her torture was about to begin.


    The old man''s training was much more physically demanding. He didn''t care about her fire or speed but her close combat skills, strength, and endurance. The force of his fists was brutal and sent her to the ground bleeding every time she failed to dodge or defend properly.


    Early, another season started, and with it, more painful contusions. Remnya wondered if she could survive that alcoholic monster for another week.


    A fist against her jaw drew a mouthful of blood and made her surroundings spin like a roulette, yet she refused to fall and glimpsed another blow traveling to her face.


    Remnya remembered Ozura''s advice and used her fire to protect her body, focusing her energy on where his punches landed. She waited for the impact and shielded her face with her forearm. The weight of Merle''s arms could easily break her bones, but she compensated for the physical difference with the immense power of her crimson fire.


    The impact caused a shower of fire and sparks, yet her arm resisted. However, the blows wouldn''t stop coming, forcing her to switch her energy from one part of her body to another. It had taken her one week, but she had begun to understand the nuances of a successful defense.


    Nonetheless, a few punches broke through and crushed her forehead, shoulder, and stomach. Remnya staggered backward while her knees threatened to bend under her weight and charged a fireball in her left hand.


    Merle smirked and opened his arms, exposing his massive chest. "C''mon, knucklehead! Show me what kind of fireworks you got!"


    Screw you, old man! She wanted to say but remained silent and launched her fireball as hard as possible.


    Merle wouldn''t dodge it, Remnya knew, so she had planned ahead of him. When her blazing attack was inches away from him, she clenched her fist, causing her energy to blow up.


    The explosion lifted a large column of debris, fire, and smoke, covering Merle''s vision. That''s when Remnya''s plan unfolded: she closed the distance between them and shot a stream of flames from her right arm.


    Like a fire lance, her attack penetrated the smoke. It reached Merle, causing a second and bigger explosion that forced Remnya to cover herself from the blazing rocks traveling faster than sound in every direction.


    Despite the pain and exhaustion, she smiled for having pulled off the combo she had been practicing for months.


    As the smoke began to dissipate, Merle walked forward. Her attack had reached the left side of his body and burned half the clothes of his torso. The skin of his shoulder looked red, yet there was no trace of blood.


    He chuckled. "Predictable."


    Remnya scowled. "If it was predictable, why didn''t you dodge it?"


    "No fun in it." He shrugged. "If you want me to evade your petty attacks, give me something that will force me to do it."


    She gritted her teeth and raised her voice. "I''ll keep improving and show you what I can do!"


    "Oh, will you?" Merle smirked and crossed his massive arms. "You''ve not progressed a lot since our last meeting. Though, I''m not surprised. Ozura tends to be too soft and lenient."


    His words made Remnya''s blood boil. She glared at him and shouted, "That''s not true! She helped me a lot and taught me a lot of things too!"


    "Oh, did she?" He sneered.


    "You have no idea because you weren''t even here."


    "Maybe, but let me tell you something." Merle paused to smother the flames surrounding his boots and continued, "You''ll never save your friend at this rate." He observed with amusement how Remnya''s expression changed from annoyance to anger. "Just like she couldn''t save his husband."


    "Shut up!" Remnya roared, taking a step forward, her foot crushing a burned branch. "She didn''t even have the chance to save him because she trusted you to do it!"


    Silence.


    Merle stared at her for a moment, his eyes penetrating her soul, and then guffawed like a buffoon. His voice resounded throughout the forest. "Is that what you really think?"


    Remnya realized she had said too much. She lowered her gaze and shook her head.


    "Would you prefer Ozura to train you instead of me?"


    "It''s not that." Remnya bit her lower lip. "But while you were gone, she trained me, fed us, and made sure Brisa was okay . . . " She let out a groan of frustration and punched a nearby tree. "Now all of a sudden she''s gone and nobody will tell me anything about her! It''s like no one cares!"


    Merle raised one eyebrow. "Is that what''s troubling you?"


    "It is! Despite all the things she did for us, I never got the chance to thank her properly." She stared deep into his gaze. "I asked you to train me, and I''ll accept any kind of training you give me, but I also need to know what happened to Miss Ozura! Is she even alive?"


    Merle twisted his lips, closed his eyes, and remained silent for what felt like hours. The only sound in the forest was Remnya''s heart kicking against her eardrums.


    "As expected of you." He chuckled and shook his head, looking at her as if she were a child throwing a tantrum. "Wanna know what''s your biggest weakness?"


    This novel''s true home is a different platform. Support the author by finding it there.


    "What?" Remnya answered reluctantly.


    Merle pointed at his own chest.


    "My heart?" She tightened her lips and scowled.


    "That empathy of yours might be a virtue, but in the battlefield, it''ll become your worst enemy."


    "Are you suggesting I stop caring about others?"


    "I am suggesting that, once the time comes, do not hesitate to sacrifice everything and everyone if that means succeeding in your mission." He smirked. "Even if the one being sacrificed is myself."


    "Why are you telling me this? You know I can''t do that."


    "Which is a pity." He shrugged. "Because your friend Zeo seems to have understood this very well."


    "Zeo?" Remnya widened her eyes.


    Merle nodded. "I met him in the battlefield."


    Remnya''s jaw dropped. "No way!" She ran up to Merle, craving for answers. "Is he okay?"


    "Looked okay to me. At least he''s alive and seems to have turned into a true warrior."


    A smile spread across her face as a weight seemed to lift off her shoulders. "Did you tell him about me? That you know me?"


    "Oh, yeah, I told him about you, and he said something like I''ll write my own fate and finished with fuck you!"


    Remnya stifled a chuckle. "Sounds like him . . . " she admitted with regret.


    "You don''t seem disappointed I didn''t drag him with me here."


    Remnya narrowed her eyebrows and stared Merle straight in the eyes. "Why would I be? It''s my friend and my mission, not yours. I would never ask you to get in more trouble because of me."


    "Fair enough."


    "But thank you for telling me." She beamed at him.


    "I didn''t mean to brighten your day, knucklehead." He cracked his neck, hiding a smile. "I''m just letting you know your friend is leaving you behind."


    "That only means I need to train harder!" Remnya shouted, raising her arms and clenching her fists. Knowing Zeo was still alive and fighting for his freedom had filled her body and heart with the energy and courage to take on any challenge.


    Merle shook his head and took a fighting stance. "Let''s make a deal then."


    "Sure."


    "If you last until sunset without being knocked unconscious, I''ll tell you where to find Ozura."


    Remnya charged two fireballs on each hand and locked her eyes on her prey. "We have a deal!"


    *¡ã*¡ã*


    It was a moonless night. Crickets and cicadas invaded the forest with their songs of love and melancholy, joined by toads resting on the rocks across the creek. Remnya sat on a tree stump while Brisa placed a bag of ice against her bruised face. The pain left for a few seconds under the cold pressure and returned as soon as she took it away. But it had been worth it, and Merle kept his word.


    However, Brisa shook her head and lectured Remnya about how stupid she was for pushing her body to that extent. "That man is an alcoholic brute!" Brisa said, anger glowing in her golden eyes with the light of a lamp that hung from a tree. "I don''t care if you''re a Nephilim or whatever, you''re still a child! That jerk is gonna hear me."


    "Brisa," Remnya called, seeing how red Brisa''s cheeks had gotten. "How is Zaoly today?" she forced a painful smile.


    Her words took Brisa aback. She took a moment to process her question and then let out a deep sigh of resignation. "Zaoly''s been more active than usual lately, but he seems happy." Brisa brushed a strand of hair from Remnya''s face and narrowed her eyebrows, trying to look upset. "I didn''t get to tell you because all you do now is training like a maniac, but Ozura bought a lot of new clothes for him."


    "I''m sorry I''ve not spent enough time with you lately." Remnya pursed her lips and caressed Brisa''s arm.


    Brisa hissed and squeezed her hand. "I don''t care if you can''t spend time with me, but I care about your well-being. Harming yourself this way is not gonna do any good, you know?"


    "This is not gonna last forever." Remnya swallowed the blood in her mouth. "Once I rescue Zeo and Debrin defeats The Hunters, the three of us will be free, finally."


    "What if Debrin fails? Have you thought about it?"


    "He won''t!" Remnya raised her voice. Such an outcome wasn''t possible in her head. Debrin had to succeed.


    "What if?"


    Remnya thought for a moment. "We''ll move somewhere else where Zaoly can grow safely."


    "Rem." Brisa placed her hands on her shoulders and stared tenderly into her eyes. "Please, don''t let our lives be what dictates your destiny. I promise I''ll protect Zaoly until the end, but I need you to promise me you''ll take care of yourself too. We don''t know what might happen tomorrow, so I want to see you happy for as long as I can."


    Remnya tightened her lips and lowered her gaze. "I''ll only be happy knowing you, Zaoly, and Zeo are okay."


    "And we''ll be okay knowing you''re happy."


    Silence.


    "It''s getting late." Remnya stood suddenly, gritting her teeth from the pain in her body.


    "Are you going to see her?"


    Remnya nodded. "The old man said she would wait for me."


    "I understand." Brisa wrapped her arms around Remnya and hugged her tightly. "I''ll return to the camp, so make sure you at least come to say goodnight before bed, okay?"


    "I will." She smiled.


    "And that brute won''t get away with this so easily." Brisa scowled.


    Remnya bobbed her head reluctantly and hugged her sister back before turning toward the depth of the forest.


    Merle had assured her Ozura would be waiting by the training ground. Once a dense part of the forest turned into a plain of ashes, debris, and charred nature. It would be their last encounter, Remnya knew, and her heart pumped adrenaline through her body with each step.


    Remnya stood on a low hill that provided a perfect view of the burnt training ground and the mountains of Crysalton on the horizon. Even at that distance, the city glow reached her with a tenuous brightness that resembled thousands of dying fireflies. So close, yet so far.


    Descending the hill, Remnya glimpsed a silhouette under a tree. She rushed the pace until Ozura''s violet eyes landed on her bruised face. The lady wore her Karx combat uniform and had her hair in a bun. She scanned Remnya for a moment and then turned her gaze to the sky.


    The night seemed to freeze for a moment. Not even the leaves moved until she spoke.


    "Did you need to see me?" she asked, her voice soothing and tired.


    "I was worried about you," Remnya rushed to say.


    "I apologize, child. I didn''t mean to worry you."


    Remnya shook her head. "I just thought something bad had happened to you."


    "It wasn''t an easy journey, certainly." She smiled.


    As Remnya''s eyes adapted to the darkness, she noticed the bleeding wounds in Ozura''s abdomen and chest. "What happened?" She rushed to her side. "You need to see a doctor!"


    Ozura chuckled and placed her hand on Remnya''s head. "There''s no time for that, child. I still have a mission out there."


    "I thought you had already fulfilled your mission." Remnya narrowed her eyes. "You protected this place, took care of everyone, and even trained me. What else do you need to do?"


    The lady remained silent for a moment, her eyes displaying peace. "My army requires one more sacrifice from me."


    Remnya grimaced at her words. "You don''t have to die!"


    "Remnya." Ozura raised her voice, which echoed in Remnya''s ears like a suppressed roar. "I''m just a grain of sand in this ocean of life and death. Yet, if I do my part, perhaps, just perhaps, the children of tomorrow will be able to see a better future." She stifled a chuckle as she turned to her. "We''ve fought so long and so hard, Remnya, and despite everything, here we are. We''ve left so many friends behind, buried so many memories, gave up on so many people. All that so we could be here, this close . . . so close."


    Ozura locked her cold yet fiery eyes on hers and spoke from the depths of her heart. "If my life can bring people one ounce of hope and happiness, if my life can change the course of our fates, if my life can bring Debrin one step closer to end this war once and for all. I know that I will gladly give it to him and my army."


    Remnya was out of words. All she could do was contemplate her choices in silence while the creatures of the forest filled the silence of the night.


    Ozura placed her hand on Remnya''s cheek and beamed at her with her perfect teeth and fangs. "I don''t expect you to understand me. All I want you is to raise your head, fight for your dreams, and never give up. You still have a long life and a bright future ahead of you, Remnya. Make it real, make it happen."


    Silence.


    Remnya stared deep into her eyes, witnessing a spark of hope and sincerity in her soul. She took her words and made them her own, saving them deep into her heart, and nodded. "I won''t disappoint you, Miss Ozura. I''ll fight until the end like you and Mr. Vladimore."


    "Thank you." Ozura pulled Remnya against her chest and tightened her arms around her in a motherly hug that filled her soul. "You''re a true warrior, don''t let anyone tell you otherwise, and I know you will save your friend, Zeo. Trust me, I know you will."


    Her words made Remnya shiver, and tears welled up in her eyes. Yet they wouldn''t fall that night. They evaporated with the heat of her fire, along with her last fears. If the most powerful lady she had met believed in her, how could she not believe in herself too?


    "Thank you." She gripped her tough yet tender and warm body with all her strength. "Thank you for everything."


    *¡ã*¡ã*


    <u>Next Chapter</u>: February 4

 66: Home, Bitter Home

    Zeo


    The day woke gray with thick fog engulfing the hills on the horizon and a drizzle that soaked Zeo''s new clothes, given to him to blend in with the crowd. He stood still under the tender water drops caressing his face and stared at the aircraft that had just dropped him, taking off from the Fallen Star Airport.


    After informing Marakudra of their arrival, he headed toward the parking lot, where his chosen warriors awaited him: Arkor, Kristina, and Stella. The first two hadn''t hesitated to join him, but Stella grimaced with hatred when her name appeared on his list. However, Zeo knew those three were the best choices, and the success of his mission depended on them.


    Zeo scanned the crowded parking lot and spotted his companions next to two vehicles. They looked like ordinary teenagers in their casual attires, and other than their scars and melancholic eyes, no one could tell they were slaves of The Hunters.


    Arkor smiled when Zeo stood before them and observed the two vehicles parked nearby: a black van and a blue sedan. Average-looking cars meticulously prepared by The Hunters to face the challenges of their mission.


    "Not what I expected, but this will do," Zeo said, knocking on the hood of the blue car. He could feel the thick bulletproof layer underneath.


    "I''ve not driven in so long! I wonder if I still remember how to do it?" Arkor turned to Kristina and Stella. "Unless any of you wanna do it?"


    Kristina shook her head, and Stella ignored him as she shifted awkwardly and shot suspicious glances at every passerby.


    "She''s been like that all day," Arkor whispered to Zeo.


    "I''m not used to crowds," Stella retorted, pulling up her hoodie to cover part of her face.


    "Relax!" Arkor smirked, brushing up his wet hair to uncover his forehead. "This is nice for a change. The smell of people is captivating." He followed a pretty girl with his eyes and licked his lips.


    Stella rolled her eyes with disgust.


    "Don''t worry," Zeo spoke calmly but bore his pupils on Stella, who glared at him. "This will be over before you know it. After that, you can return to your cage if that''s what you want."


    "We got no place to return," Kristina added, frowning.


    Arkor put his finger on his lips, suggesting she remain silent.


    "Alright, listen." Zeo straightened his back. "Our mission is simple. Arkor and Kristina will head to the town''s outskirts and locate the two Hybrids hiding in that farm Marakudra mentioned. You already have the coordinates of that place on your phone, so it should be easy to find them. Once you do, let me know and wait for orders. Understood?"


    "Roger, boss." Arkor saluted him, holding back his laughter, and Kristina nodded.


    "Stella and I will head to the orphanage in the southern area of the town." She grimaced at his words, but Zeo had good reasons to take her with him. "I know that place very well, so it shouldn''t take us long. Any questions?"


    Kristina raised her hand. "Our Captain said those two Hybrids posed no threat to us, but how should we proceed if we encounter issues? They won''t come with us willingly."


    "Fair point." Zeo thought for a moment. "If you judge the situation could escalate and present a risk to our mission, wait for us. Limit yourself to monitor our targets and keep them from escaping."


    "Now that I think about it, we have scarce information about the people we''re dealing with," Arkor added, crossing his arms. "All they told us was ''two hybrids between twelve and eighteen.'' Nothing else."


    "Don''t worry about it, and proceed as ordered." Zeo''s voice cut through the rain. They had one mission there, and nothing would stop it.


    Arkor shrugged and walked to the black van. Kristina nodded at Zeo and followed her companion.


    The engine roared as they drove away, leaving a trail of water spray behind. When they disappeared, Zeo turned to Stella, who avoided direct eye contact and sulked over her impending fate.


    "Let''s go," Zeo said, opening the door of their car, and sat inside. The dashboard was modified with multiple buttons and switches, and a QLED screen was in the middle, displaying the interior of Arkor and Kristina''s car. However, they had no idea about it or could see them.


    Stella slammed the door shut as she sat on the back seat and crossed her arms. Zeo glanced at her through the rearview camera and turned on the car. Fortunately, he had practiced his driving skills before their mission and felt confident enough, unlike his last time.


    Zeo took the main avenue and drove through the town he had once known. In almost two years, very little had changed. The same old big stores remained on each side of the pavement, the same street vendors and beggars on the sidewalk, and the reckless drivers cutting him off at every intersection. Even though he rarely left the orphanage back in the day, he still remembered his trips with the caregivers. He recalled Remnya had never been taken out but enjoyed hearing him talk about it.


    As they drove south, the stores became scarcer and cramped neighborhoods with rustic houses popped everywhere. Even the smooth asphalt turned into a rough surface full of potholes Zeo had to dodge on every street.


    When they passed by a landfill site, Zeo broke the awkward silence and asked, "What''s the name of your hometown?"


    She said nothing.


    Zeo stopped next to a large dead tree and turned to her. "I already know your parents were killed by The Hunters and that you were forced to join." He observed how her eyes filled with hatred. "And I also know that as soon as I let my guard down, you''re gonna stab me with the dagger you''re hiding under your sleeve." He smirked and used his vectors to grab her arms and legs. She tried to react, but Zeo had already restrained all her movements.


    Stella shook her body violently and let out a groan of anger as she tried to break free.


    "If you think I am your enemy, you''re wrong." Zeo glared at her, disappointed. "Do you really think killing me and running away would be a smart decision?"


    "Shut up! I don''t care what you say!" she roared as her cold face transformed into a tempest of fury and frustration. But his vectors wouldn''t let her go.


    "That''s the problem with you!" Zeo raised his voice. "You think bottling it all inside and isolating yourself from the rest of the world will grant you freedom eventually? You''re fucking stupid!"


    "You''re just Marakudra''s dog! You have no right to tell me what to do!" The veins in her forehead bulged, and her face turned red like blood. "You have no idea what I''ve been through!" Stella managed to release her arm and tried to reach him with her dagger.


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    Zeo snatched her wrist and stopped it in front of his face. It was too easy to kill her. His vectors could stab her head and chest easily at that distance. However, he still had something to say. "I might not know. You''re right. But I do know what it feels to lose everything you love and be forced to swear loyalty to those you hate."


    Her arm trembled before his eyes, slowly approaching him.


    "I choose you for this mission for one reason." He took a deep breath, struggling to hold her arm. "I know you''ve not given up yet. I know there''s something or someone out there for you to fight for, something keeping you alive! Otherwise, you would''ve died that day. Am I wrong?"


    Stella hesitated for a moment, giving Zeo a perfect chance to disarm her with his vectors. She dropped the dagger, and he restrained her arms and legs against the car seat.


    "I do not plan to return." Zeo stared deep into her irritated eyes. "I''ll take my friend and run away. The Hunters can come after me. I don''t give a shit because I am the owner of my fate. Now the question is, are you the owner of your fate too?"


    Her pupils dilated, and her resistance seemed to waver. Stella lowered her gaze and remained motionless for long seconds.


    Zeo''s vectors aimed at her head and heart as he waited for an answer.


    "I . . . " she murmured. "I still have my aunt out there." As she uttered those words, her voice cracked.


    Silence.


    "Is that why you want to live?"


    "She''s the last survivor of my family." Tears rolled down her eyes. "She thinks we all died that night. All I want, my last wish, is to survive and return to see her one more time. For the last time. Even if The Hunters kill me afterward!"


    "Then do it!" Zeo scowled, pushing her away as his vectors released her. He let out a sigh of relief. "I didn''t choose the three of you to help me on this mission. I just wanted to give you all a last chance to be free."


    "Free?" She chuckled bitterly. "Don''t be stupid. If we desert, we''ll be hunted like animals by them, you know that, right?" She slammed her fist against the backseat. "We have trackers in our necks! Microchips to locate us wherever we go!"


    "Why do you think Marakudra chose me as her pet?"


    Stella widened her eyes as Zeo showed her a small hole in his neck. "She explained to me how the trackers worked and where they were implanted. You can use a special needle to remove it, but that''ll cause serious damage to your body as it''s specifically designed to self-destruct and trigger an alarm. However, with my vectors, I can deactivate it temporarily and shut down that alarm to remove it."


    "Marakudra told you that?" Her jaw dropped. "Why would she?"


    "You will know that when the time comes. However, I need to ask you something first." Zeo leaned forward, narrowing his eyebrows. "I can remove the tracker in your neck right now, and you can run away. Free. Or you can stay with me and proceed with the mission as planned. Whatever it is, I''ll respect your choice, so I need to know, what will you do?"


    Stella thought for a moment, fiddling with her clothes under the intent look of Zeo.


    She finally spoke. "How do I know you''re telling the truth?"


    "During all this time, I could''ve killed you five times, or I could''ve just broken your nervous system, disabling your whole body." He unlocked the doors and turned his back to her. "I have no interest in harming you."


    "Even if that''s true." She bit her lower lip. "These cars belong to The Hunters. I''m sure they have microphones listening to everything we just said."


    "I already took care of that."


    "Does it have to do with Marakudra?" Stella leaned forward, gripping Zeo''s seat, and spoke in his ear, "How can we trust her?"


    Silence.


    "Time is running out for us." Zeo scowled, starting the car. "Decide now, please."


    She widened her eyes and leaned back in her seat, looking startled. Zeo understood all her doubts and concerns, but if she became an obstacle to his mission, he had no choice but to eliminate her.


    Stella took a deep breath of resignation while her hands trembled on her lap. "Alright." She nodded hesitatingly. "I already died once, after all, and anything is better than living like a slave. So I don''t mind accompanying you for a bit longer."


    "It''s decided then," Zeo said coldly as his vectors vanished, leaving marks on Stella''s neck. He turned to face the wet street ahead and tightened his fingers around the steering wheel. "It''s about time the hunter becomes the hunted."


    *¡ã*¡ã*


    The rain stopped by midday. Zeo parked in front of an abandoned house and told Stella to do whatever she pleased while he fulfilled his mission. He stepped out of the car and locked his eyes on the horizon before taking the first step.


    It was a sight he knew well. The cracked asphalt glimmered under the dazzling white sky, and water dripped from the ancient trees on the sidewalk.


    The fresh humidity in the air wrapped around his body with a nostalgic feeling.


    A familiar yet distant smell of food lingered in the neighborhood as he passed by the open windows of an old restaurant. He recalled the few times the caregivers had been kind enough to bring them a meal from there and how much they had enjoyed it.


    Zeo''s boots splashed a puddle as he stopped by a massive wall stained by dampness and graffiti. He had arrived at the prison once called home. Standing before the rusted iron gates, Zeo looked into the front yard. Like a picture stuck in time, the place hadn''t changed. Memories from the past taunted his mind like a weak tide. Happy moments he had never appreciated enough.


    Despite all the pain, Remnya and Amy were with him.


    If he could go back in time, it would be different.


    Only if.


    Zeo shook his head and shunned those stupid thoughts away. His mission there was more important.


    He pushed the iron gates, once so heavy, now so light and feeble, unable to contain his orphaned will. He walked the long concrete path leading to the entrance, and the gloomy aura of the past fell over his shoulders. But unlike before, he could carry the weight of thousands.


    Marakudra had told him that after the deaths of Orena and Coscu, Ronner appointed one of his men as the director of the orphanage. However, with his death, The Hunters had placed their own puppet there, and she knew Zeo was coming.


    As soon as he stepped on the cracked stairs, an old lady welcomed him effusively.


    "Welcome, young man! I was waiting for you," she said, smiling from ear to ear. She was a short, stocky lady in her sixties with short red hair and violet lipstick on her dry lips.


    "Where is she?" Zeo asked, ignoring her antics, and entered his old home. The place looked different: the walls had been painted, the railing on the stairs repaired, and the musty smell replaced by a nasty citric perfume.


    "Oh please, let me show you," the old lady tried to guide him, but Zeo grabbed her shoulder, stopping her.


    "No." He scowled. "Tell me where she is. I''ll find her myself."


    She widened her eyes, displaying a hint of fear, and nodded. "The Hybrid girl is at the courtyard right now," she murmured.


    "Thanks," Zeo said with disgust and strode toward the doors he had memorized as a toddler.


    Kids ran past him, shooting curious glances at his eyepatch and messy long hair, and a few seemed to recognize him but didn''t dare to speak. He was a shadow of his former self, but a part of him had been left in that orphanage forever.


    In the courtyard, Zeo searched for familiar faces, and in a corner, he found the sweet person he longed to see.


    "Amy," he mumbled and clenched his fists.


    His little friend sat on a bench, eating with two girls and one boy, who exchanged laughs with her.


    Zeo marched in her direction, swallowing through the knot in his throat, and halted in her sight.


    The time stopped.


    Amy took a while to notice his presence, but as soon as she did, her food fell on the floor. Her eyes grew like full moons, and her jaw dropped in shock. She froze while her friends asked her what was wrong.


    Slowly, Zeo approached her and forced a smile. "Hi, Amy. Long time no see."


    Her friends stared at him with fear and ran away, but Amy kept her beautiful, huge green eyes locked on him.


    Silence.


    "I know it''s been a while, but¡ª"


    Before he could finish, she darted at him like a bullet and buried her face in his chest. She gripped him tightly like a press, her little arms reminding him of Remnya''s strength.


    Zeo''s hardened soul and body broke for a moment, and like the old times, he hugged her against his chest, kissing her head. The warmth of her body melted his stone-cold heart, and his eyes burned with unshed tears he refused to set free.


    No. Zeo said to himself as his will wavered. I can''t let my emotions speak anymore.


    His body trembled as he resisted the urge to be a kid again and embrace his lost innocence. The innocence he saw in Amy, the little friend he never stopped loving. His heart pumped life throughout his body again, showing him he was not the monster he thought he was. Despite everything, a trace of humanity was still in him.


    "I missed you so much . . . " Zeo whispered. "So damn much."


    "I missed you too." Amy cried and sniffled against his chest. "You left without saying anything! You''re so dumb dumb dumb!


    "I''m sorry." He leaned over and kissed her cheek. "I''m sorry I couldn''t return sooner."


    "I knew you''d come back, though." She leaned back to stare at him and smiled, her eyes full of tears and a reddened nose. "You never broke a promise."


    Zeo was out of words and just nodded, knowing that no matter what, The Hunters could never lay a finger on Amy.


    His life purpose was to protect her until the end.


    *¡ã*¡ã*


    <u>Next Chapter</u>: February 11

 67: Not Yet Gone

    Zeo


    Zeo sat with Amy on a wooden bench in the courtyard. A familiar place they walked together so many times. The kids ignored him as they ran past them, splashing puddles on the cracked floor and shouting at each other. However, his presence seemed to disturb the caregivers, who shot nervous glances in his direction and gossiped.


    Amy tugged his sleeve insistently as she bombarded him with questions, her high-pitched voice filling his ears. Zeo did his best to answer honestly and told her about the mansion and how Remnya and himself had gone on separate ways, which disappointed his little friend. Regarding his journey, Zeo told her he had joined the military.


    ¡°The military?¡± Amy asked in surprise, with her mouth full of food, and bread crumbs landed on his lap. ¡°That means you learned how to fight!¡±


    ¡°I guess you could say that.¡± Zeo smiled.


    ¡°What do you do there?¡±


    Zeo thought for a moment, struggling to find the right words. As much as he wanted to keep her happy, he didn¡¯t want to give her false hopes. ¡°My job there is to protect people, but I came all the way here because I wanted to protect someone very special to me.¡± He narrowed his eyes. ¡°You.¡±


    ¡°Me?¡± Amy giggled. ¡°Protect me from what?¡±


    ¡°Bad people.¡± Zeo caressed her face and leaned closer. ¡°There are bad people out there, but I won¡¯t let them harm you.¡±


    Her pupil dilated. ¡°Who are those bad people?¡±


    ¡°Let¡¯s just call them . . . Demons.¡±


    She chuckled. ¡°Like the demons in that book you read me?¡±


    Zeo recalled a fantasy book about the war between Demons and Elves. ¡°Yeah, there are demons out there.¡±


    ¡°But why would the demons want to harm me?¡± Amy pointed at her tiny horns. ¡°I am a demon too.¡±


    ¡°No, you¡¯re not.¡± Zeo scowled. ¡°Who told you that?¡±


    ¡°Everyone.¡± She shrugged. ¡°After you left, Orena told me I was a half-demon like Rem, and then the boys and girls started calling me that too.¡±


    ¡°Those assholes,¡± Zeo muttered between his teeth.


    ¡°Hey!¡± Amy pouted. ¡°Don¡¯t say bad words!¡±


    ¡°Sorry.¡± Zeo put his hands on her shoulders, staring tenderly into her innocent eyes. ¡°Listen to me, Amy. You¡¯re not a demon. You¡¯re a half Nephilim.¡± As soon as those words left his mouth, he questioned their veracity. Every adult with Nephilim blood he had met had been a ruthless beast to him, and he couldn¡¯t help but wonder if Remnya and Amy would turn out like that at some point too.


    No. Zeo shook his head. They¡¯re different.


    ¡°Oh, but I know that.¡± Amy giggled, bringing him back to reality.


    ¡°Wait, what did you say?¡±


    ¡°I read some of the books you left.¡± She grabbed his ears and pulled them softly. ¡°You¡¯re an Anglish, and Rem is a Nephilim!¡±


    Zeo blinked with confusion. ¡°So you already knew.¡±


    Amy nodded effusively. ¡°I also know my horns will keep growing. Mirtha told me.¡±


    ¡°Mirtha?¡±


    ¡°The director, Mirtha! She¡¯s really nice. A lot nicer than the previous directors, so I am happy she replaced them.¡±


    ¡°What else did she tell you?¡±


    ¡°She told me about The Hunters too.¡±


    A cold shiver ran down Zeo¡¯s back.


    ¡°She said since I am a half Nephilim, I must protect humans and Nephilims. She also told me The Hunters are the protectors of our planet.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s not true.¡± Zeo scowled, and words left his mouth without thinking. ¡°The Hunters are the true demons.¡±


    Amy tilted her head, unimpressed. ¡°Are they the demons trying to harm me?¡±


    Zeo flinched as he realized his mistake, and his brain tried to find an explanation for his outburst, but there was none. ¡°Amy, please listen carefully.¡± He sighed. ¡°The only reason I returned is to take you with me. The orphanage is not safe anymore, but I am here to protect you.¡±


    Amy looked undisturbed by his revelation. ¡°I never said I believed her.¡± She looked left and right and leaned closer to whisper in his ear. ¡°I heard the adults talking about it. They said The Hunters kidnap kids and force them to make babies.¡±


    Her words froze his blood, but Zeo kept his cool and tried to be the wise big brother she needed. ¡°Amy, whatever they said doesn¡¯t matter anymore. I won¡¯t let anyone hurt you. That¡¯s my promise.¡± He narrowed his eyes and brushed her soft hair. ¡°And please, no matter what, don¡¯t ever tell anyone about this. This will be a secret between you and me, okay?¡±


    ¡°I won¡¯t tell anyone. Pinky promise!¡± Amy bobbed her head and kneeled on the bench to hug him and kiss his cheek. ¡°I¡¯m just happy you are back.¡±


    ¡°And I¡¯m happy to see you again, Amy.¡± Zeo smiled and squeezed her little body. ¡°Now, go get your things ready so we can leave today.¡±


    ¡°Wait!¡± She pushed him away and shook her head, scowling. ¡°I can¡¯t leave today. It¡¯s my friend¡¯s birthday!¡±


    ¡°Hey, there¡¯s no time for that,¡± he said firmly and grabbed her hand. ¡°The sooner we leave, the safer we¡¯ll be.¡±


    ¡°Not yet!¡± Amy glared at him, slapped his hand away, and jumped off the bench. She stuck out her tongue at him and stormed away from him like a bullet.


    Zeo stood still for a moment, processing her reaction, and then let out a deep sigh. Despite everything, it wouldn¡¯t be so easy. Amy reminded him of Remnya, but bolder and more stubborn, and he wondered if forcing her to leave was even an option.


    However, there was something to do before making a drastic decision.


    *¡ã*¡ã*


    Their mission could only proceed after Arkor and Kristina located the two Nephilims on the farm. It was a crucial part of his plan, so Zeo grabbed his cell phone and called them.


    The narrative has been taken without permission. Report any sightings.


    The minutes passed, but no matter how many times he dialed their numbers, neither picked up their phones.


    "Dammit." Zeo slammed his fist on the wooden bench with frustration. He sat still, staring vacantly at the sun peeking at him from behind the clouds. He hoped his teammates would call him back when they noticed his missing calls. Otherwise, it meant something had happened to them.


    The clouds slowly vanished, and the smell of food reached his nose as the orphans gathered to have lunch.


    A group of girls walked past him, shooting contemptuous glances and murmuring something about him before laughing. Zeo just stifled a chuckle, pitying their pathetic existences, and focused on scheming a new plan in case things went south.


    However, a presence distracted him from his thoughts.


    Someone stood next to him. A skinny and stylish girl with blonde dyed hair and faded pink tips. Her earrings glimmered under the sunlight as she smiled at him.


    Zeo sprung from his seat to look at her closely, and when he recognized her, his jaw dropped a little.


    "Zeo?" she asked, her coffee-brown eyes locked on him.


    "Gina?" Zeo murmured.


    "Oh my God, is this really you?" She rushed to Zeo and wrapped her arms around him, squeezing him with all her strength. He didn''t react and only managed to sniff her perfume, that vanilla-lemon smell that burned his nose.


    Gina released him and beamed at him. "I can''t believe it!" She inspected his face and scanned his body from head to toe. "It looks like you, but you look and feel different!"


    "A lot of things happened." He forced a smile. "But how have you been?"


    "I''ve survived." She giggled, displaying an adorable smile. "You?"


    "Same . . . "


    They sat together and talked about their journeys. Zeo revealed what he considered was relevant but omitted anything that could endanger Gina''s life. Her company filled his body with a strange feeling of peace. For the first time in forever, he felt like a normal teenager hanging out with a cute girl, and worries seemed to disappear for a few minutes.


    "I can''t believe you''ve gone through so much." Gina put her hand on his shoulder, a hint of admiration in her eyes. "No wonder you''ve changed. You look nothing like the boy who left this place that morning."


    "You''ve changed too." Zeo stared at Gina for a moment. She had always taken care of her appearance, but being older, she looked even better in her cheap yet fashionable clothes. Though, he always thought she didn''t need that much makeup on her pretty face. "You look good." Words escaped his mouth.


    Gina widened her eyes. "You think so?" She blushed and took her hand away from him.


    "Yeah . . . " Zeo scratched his head while sweat prickled his skin, and an intense heat burned his cheeks.


    "Thank you."


    Awkward silence.


    "Sorry." Zeo gulped and tugged his shirt, feeling cold air against his armpits.


    "It''s okay." She giggled and poked his cheek. "I can see the old you again now."


    "This place makes me feel different." Zeo swept his surroundings with melancholic eyes.


    "I honestly didn''t expect to see you again."


    "I won''t be here for long," Zeo admitted.


    "Figures." She lowered her gaze and twisted her lips. "When are you leaving?"


    "Soon." He swallowed, feeling the weight of his choices on his shoulders.


    "It''d be nice to spend more time with you before you leave." She beamed at him, and he flinched, causing Gina to chuckle at his reaction.


    Zeo buried his nails into his palms, feeling stupid. His old self was dead; he tried to convince himself of it, and driven by frustration, he spoke without thinking, "I''ll come to see you again later."


    Gina gaped at him, surprised, and hesitated for a moment. "I''d love that, but," she hid her face under a strand of hair, "is it okay? They''re very strict with us now, and girls shouldn''t talk to outsiders, especially boys."


    "Since when do you care about the rules?" His other self took over his body, and anger stung his insides. He stood suddenly and scowled.


    "I don''t!" Gina stood too. "I just don''t wanna cause you trouble."


    "You won''t." Zeo turned his back to her, pride burning through his veins. "But if you prefer not to come, it''s fine." He began to walk away and muttered, "I don''t care."


    "Wait!" She grabbed his arm, making Zeo halt under the soft pressure of her hand. "Meet me in the backyard after lunch? Under the old tree. I''ll be there."


    For some reason, those words broke through his shell, and a warm sensation filled his insides. He turned to her, hiding a smile. "I''ll be there."


    They parted ways, and Zeo rushed his pace to walk away from her as soon as possible. Part of him hoped she never came to see him. He knew how reckless he had been and how dangerous it could be for Gina.


    Nonetheless, his egoistical side disagreed. If he was going to die anyway, he hoped it would be without regrets.


    *¡ã*¡ã*


    In the evening, Zeo waited for Stella near the orphanage in front of the old restaurant. He stood under the shadow of a broken lamppost and leaned against a cracked brick wall. Few people dared to be outside after sunset, so the narrow street was quiet, except for the cars stopping by to pick up food from the restaurant.


    The bliss had been ephemeral, but Gina''s words still echoed in his mind, distracting him. She wasn''t part of his plans, so why did he even care about such a trivial affair? His brain kept playing stupid tricks on him, and Zeo regretted not abandoning the orphanage with Amy in the morning.


    His cell phone buzzed in his pocket.


    It was time to face reality again.


    Zeo drew the device from his pocket and looked at the screen. A message from Stella read: ''Change of plans. Meet me at the Azul Factory as soon as possible.''


    He raised an eyebrow, trying to decipher her behavior. Was she trying to double-cross him, or had she encountered problems?


    It didn''t matter; she already knew too much, and there was only one way to figure out her true intentions.


    Scheming an escape plan in his head for Amy and himself, Zeo hopped in the car and grabbed a revolver with canon bullets from the glove box. He hid it under his belt and drove toward his destination.


    The industrial area was two kilometers from the orphanage in one of the poorest neighborhoods¡ªa shady place with wide streets and improvised apartments that had once been abandoned factories.


    As soon as he crossed the railway, the air changed. A stench of rotten eggs polluted the air, along with a thick mist that covered the sky. The Azul Factory was behind a wasteland surrounded by an electrified fence with barbed wire. The odd location triggered multiple alarms on Zeo, who knew something was wrong.


    He stopped on a dirt road near the entrance and got off the car.


    The place was grim, like a graveyard, and the buzz of the electric fence vibrated in his ears. A row of orange lights illuminated the street, and in the distance, he overheard the machines from nearby factories working and contaminating the atmosphere. However, the Azul Factory was in uncanny silence and total darkness.


    Zeo called Stella many times, but all he got as a response was another message: ''I am inside by the gas tanks.'' He scanned his surroundings and spotted several liquid hydrogen tanks behind fences with multiple danger signs.


    "Don''t try to play with me," Zeo said, scratching the surface of his gun with his fingertips. "If this is your plan to kill me, let me tell you it''ll never work."


    Silence.


    "Where are the security guards? Do you want me to believe this place was left unattended?" He shouted while his vectors traveled underground to perceive the earth''s vibrations. "Don''t be stupid!"


    His voice echoed against the factory walls. Zeo regretted giving Stella a second chance and swore he would kill her if she betrayed him.


    He stared at the hydrogen tanks for a moment and considered using his gun to shoot them and blow up the whole place. However, there could be innocent people nearby, "Stella, you know I''ll kill you if you try to play with me." Zeo summoned his vectors and tried to detect her presence, deciding to end that ridiculous game once and for all.


    A body moved.


    Eyes seemed to look in his direction.


    . . .


    A monstrous presence hit Zeo''s like a freight train.


    His vectors hissed and sent pain throughout his nervous system.


    "What the hell?" Zeo rushed to hide behind the car and grabbed his gun. "Someone released a huge wave of energy. What''s the meaning of this?"


    . . .


    All the lampposts blew up, and a violet flash followed by electric arcs and sparks blinded him.


    "Dammit!" Zeo shouted when a hand snatched his neck and slammed his body against the car door, crushing it.


    Zeo could barely breathe and glimpsed two violet eyes glowing in the dark. He tried to summon his vectors, but they didn''t respond.


    "That''s futile. I''ve blocked your energy," a female voice said, soothing and cold like ice.


    In the darkness, Zeo discerned a lady with carmine-red hair holding his neck tightly. She wore a long black coat, and a crimson pendant glimmered on her chest. "Who are you?" he muttered, gripping her wrist with both hands.


    "I will be the one asking questions here." She glared at him, her pupils penetrating his body like amethyst knives. "The others were unable to give me useful information, but perhaps you''re more willing to talk, young Anglish?"


    "The others?" The realization hit Zeo like a truck. "What did you do to them, you bastard?" he roared.


    "They''re still alive, for now," she increased the pressure against his neck, "but that might change soon depending on what you have to say."


    Silence.


    "Now start talking." She leaned closer and bared her fangs. "Why are you, Hunters, here?"


    *¡ã*¡ã*


    <u>Next Chapter</u>: February 25

 68: Between The Sword And The Wall

    Zeo


    As soon as the word Hunters left that woman''s mouth, Zeo understood he only had one chance to survive. Her claws penetrated his neck while her fingertips began to cut the oxygen to his brain.


    But it wasn''t his first time dancing with death. He breathed slowly, calming his heart, and focused on his unresponsive vectors.


    "I got nothing to tell you," Zeo said, snatching her wrist with both hands and trying to pull it away.


    Her expression darkened, and her purple eyes glowed with contempt, but he spotted a weakness: the left side of her abdomen was bleeding through her clothes.


    Before the woman could decide his fate, he threw a kick to her wound. She used her left leg to block it, giving him a brief opening; the skill restraining him wavered momentarily, and Zeo took his chance.


    A boom of energy traveled through his vectors, reactivating them, and a spectral arm emerged from the ground, trying to reach the woman''s head.


    She diverted it with her free hand, but Zeo''s second vector snatched the arm holding his neck and tried to sever her wrist.


    The woman released him and crushed his jaw with a punch. The impact felt heavy like a boulder and sent him to the ground with a mouthful of blood, though he quickly recovered and bounced back on his feet, ready to fight for his life.


    She cradled her wrist and stared at him in disbelief. "You''ve already put up more of a fight than your friends." She smirked and cracked her knuckles. "But for how long?"


    "Until you disappear from my sight," Zeo spat, taking a defensive stance.


    The woman shook her head. "Isn''t it ironic? An Anglish fighting for The Hunters." She scanned him from head to toe, giving him a disappointed look. "You''re fighting for the ones who eradicated your kind. How pitiful."


    "I don''t give a shit about The Hunters!" Zeo roared, glaring at her and analyzing her body for a weakness, but there was none. Unlike fighters like Edo or Pyon, she had complete control of the battlefield and covered every opening.


    "The boldness of a young man, I see." She brushed a strand of hair from her face. "Unfortunately, you''re not leaving this place until you speak."


    Zeo observed the horns on her head and grimaced with disgust. "You''re just another Nephilim, aren''t you? You don''t care about Hybrids or Humans. Why should I tell you anything?"


    "Because the fate of three Hybrids depends on you. If you speak now, I swear on my dead brothers and sisters that I shall spare them."


    Silence.


    A gust of cold wind scratched Zeo''s bruised cheek. "Who are you?" Deep inside, he wanted to believe that woman was honest and did not intend to end their lives. "I can tell you don''t belong to The Hunters, so who are you?"


    "Please, don''t make me repeat myself." She closed her eyes and opened her arms while a vortex formed around her, lifting debris, scrap metal, and dust. "This is your last chance to speak. Why are you, Hunters, here?"


    Zeo understood that reasoning with her wouldn''t be possible. She was his enemy, and no matter what, he couldn''t trust her. Besides, he had a mission to protect Amy, and nobody in the world would stop him.


    "Zeo," he said firmly, locking his pupils on her bleeding wound. "Azlanin Zeo."


    The ground shook, and a shockwave traveled through the land as he charged at her impulsed by his wind. His vectors rose before the woman as he closed the distance between them. One vector searched for her left leg, while the other shielded his body as he drew his gun.


    "Zeo?" The lady let her guard down for a split second, giving Zeo a chance to seize her ankle.


    He yanked her leg toward him, and she shouted, "Wait!"


    His vectors violently sent her to the ground, burying her body in the dry soil. Zeo jumped on her, placing both legs on each side of her body, clenching his fist to smash her face.


    "You''re Remnya''s friend!" the lady exclaimed when Zeo jerked his arm in her direction.


    Her words forced him to stop inches away from her nose. "Remnya?" He stared at her with dilated eyes. "Did you say Remnya?"


    "You''re her friend, Zeo, aren''t you?" She put her hand on his chest and pushed him away with a violent motion of her arm. Zeo fell on his rear and whipped the ground with his back. She stood, looming over him, and spoke calmly, "I met Remnya."


    Zeo blinked in deep confusion, put his hands on the ground, and sat up to scrutinize the face of that lady one more time.


    "Remnya talked about you, but she never described your appearance. All I knew was The Hunters held you hostage, so I never imagined to find you out here, of all places."


    "If you know Rem, that means you''re from Karx." Zeo narrowed his eyes. "You must belong to Debrin Kavram''s army!"


    The woman remained silent for a moment and took a deep breath. "Why is her friend fighting for The Hunters?"


    Zeo hesitated. Part of him refused to answer, but if she genuinely knew Remnya, perhaps, just perhaps, she could be trusted with a dim piece of information. "If what you say is true, and you learned about me from Rem herself," he gritted his teeth, "you should already know I have no sympathy for The Hunters."


    "Then, young man, please, explain to me why you are here, working for them when she is out there training so hard to save you."


    Silence.


    "I''m not working for them," Zeo muttered between his teeth and glared at her. "And I don''t need to be saved."


    "Are you sure about that?"


    "I have no time for this!" he shouted, clenching his fists while deep anger and frustration filled his veins. "Remnya and I have chosen different paths. Her goals aren''t my goals. Her dreams aren''t my dreams. Her life choices have nothing to do with me anymore!" Words left his mouth full of poison and resentment. "So, with all due respect, lady. What the hell do you want from me?"


    She never took her sharp eyes from him and seemed to process his reaction in judgemental silence. When she spoke again, her voice had a hint of melancholy. "I want nothing from you, young man. The only reason I am here is to save as many innocent lives as possible."


    "Then tell me, where are my teammates? They''re mere slaves. They have nothing to with the Hunters nor this stupid war."


    "I wouldn''t be so sure about that." She pursed her lips. "One of them was eager to reveal your location and everything about your mission."


    "What?" Zeo''s jaw dropped.


    "He is loyal to The Hunters." The woman drew a tiny device from under her coat and showed it under the dim light. "This is used for direct communication with The Hunters'' Headquarters." Zeo stared at the metal piece intently. "Unlike the one in your neck, this tracker keeps records of conversations too." She crushed it in her hand. "Good thing I disabled it as soon as I met your friends."


    "You took that from . . . " Zeo muttered, knowing the answer.


    "The only boy in your group."


    "Arkor . . . "


    "I already know you all came here searching for Hybrids, but I wanted to confirm that information with you." She crossed her arms. "I also know The Hunters are coming since he sent off an alarm as soon as I ambushed them."


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    "That bastard!" Zeo punched the ground, wishing he had taken Arkor''s life when he had the chance.


    The woman stepped closer. "Perhaps, are you trying to dessert, young man?"


    "I won''t answer that unless you show me proof you know Remnya." He clenched his fists, glaring at her. "If you do that, I''ll tell you what I know."


    She nodded nonchalantly, grabbed a cell phone from her waist, and tossed it at Zeo, who caught it midair with his vector. "Check the last photos," she said.


    He gave her a sidelong glance and then scanned the device. It was unlocked and had a wallpaper with teddy bears drinking tea. Hesitatingly, Zeo opened her photo gallery, and his pupils dilated when he witnessed a familiar face: Remnya and that woman smiling together.


    His heart stopped, and the whole world seemed to freeze around him. Seeing Rem''s face after such a long time helped Zeo realize how much he craved to hug her again. He gritted his teeth and gripped the phone tightly.


    The woman walked up to him; her deadly aura had vanished. "My name is Ozura," she placed her hand on his shoulder, "and we really need to talk, Zeo."


    The night fell still as he swallowed his pride and processed the sudden turn of events.


    Fate seemed to smile upon him one more time. Or perhaps, was it another illusion?


    Zeo chose to believe.


    He squeezed his eyes shut and nodded, knowing his friend had never given up on him. "Okay." He took a deep breath of hope. "I''ll tell you what I know."


    *¡ã*¡ã*


    Remnya


    Remnya placed a mattress on the grass near the creek and prepared a comfortable bed for Brisa. Her sister slept with her when the weather was benign, and bugs didn''t bother her. Nonetheless, Remnya slept on the ground as promised until she saved her friend. They lay down and stared at the starry sky while fireflies surrounded them, along with the sounds of the forest.


    News had arrived in the morning, but no one had told her anything. Even Merle ignored her when she asked, which triggered even more questions in her head. But whatever it was, Remnya felt ready to face any upcoming challenge.


    She observed a stranded cloud passing by and then turned to Brisa. "How long has it been now?" she asked, resting her chin on her hand.


    Brisa thought for a moment and replied, "Over ten months."


    "Oh! Ozura said Hybrid babies take longer to be born."


    "That''s true, but Zaoly will be born this week. I know that." Brisa crossed her arms over her abdomen and sighed. "It''s been a long journey."


    "It has . . . " Remnya fiddled with a tiny flame on her fingertips. "What''s the first thing you will do when everything is over?"


    Brisa turned to her, her eyes displaying a tender hint of hope. "I''ll find a job and a place to live for you and Zaoly. After that, I''d like to visit my father''s grave since I never got the chance to do it."


    "Is he resting in Rexton, right?"


    "Correct." She smirked. "But I bet you don''t even know where that is."


    "Of course I do!" Remnya scowled. "Rexton is a country located in the south of Razdef, our country!"


    "Oh, very good." She giggled and lay on her side, staring at Remnya. "My hometown is called Green Valley, and it''s so much prettier than Crysalton."


    "So . . . " she twirled a strand of hair. "We should move there!"


    "That''d be nice."


    Remnya smiled. "Nebran is in Rexton, too, right?" Brisa nodded, looking surprised. "That''s cool. I''ve always wanted to visit the Kingdom."


    "We got a lot of places to visit¡ª"


    Heavy footsteps shattered the calm of the night, and a deep voice called their names. Remnya sprang from the ground and sharpened her senses, ready for the unexpected. Brisa stood behind her nervously.


    A stocky man emerged from the shadows, and Remnya recognized it was one of Debrin''s warriors. He stopped before them, panting, and spoke, "We''re leaving this place."


    "Why?" Remnya widened her eyes.


    "Captain Merle has confirmed our suspicions. The Hunters have tracked us down." He grabbed the mattress and put it over his shoulder. "Go get your belongings and get on the trucks as soon as possible." He turned his back to them and rushed back to the camp.


    Remnya and Brisa exchanged worried looks and picked up the pillow and blanket from the ground. "I guess Zaoly will be born on the road," Brisa faked a smile.


    "Good thing we have people who can deliver babies." Remnya squeezed the pillow between her arms and then grabbed Brisa''s hand. "Let''s go."


    Back in the camp, everyone ran in all directions, carrying their belongings, loading the trucks, and shouting orders to coordinate their departure. However, Merle stood still in the middle of the chaos; his gaze lost in the dark horizon.


    Remnya rushed to his side. "What happened?"


    "Those cunts found us again." He chugged his liquor bottle with anger. "It was a matter of time, anyway."


    "Where are we going?"


    "Joan will decide. You just follow him."


    "What about you?"


    "I''m staying here, of course." Merle cracked his knuckles. "A captain never abandons his ship."


    "Alone?"


    "Stop asking stupid questions and go!" he roared, pushing her away.


    Remnya staggered and balanced her body not to fall. Frustrated, she hissed and glared at him, wondering why she even cared about that alcoholic brute. She returned to Brisa and led her to one of the trucks, asking her to wait there while she returned to help the warriors.


    She found Joan securing the house door with twisted metal bars. "What about Debrin''s belongings?" she asked as he placed multiple explosives around the entrance.


    "There''s nothing of value for them in there."


    "What about his garden?"


    "Plants will grow again." Joan pointed at a piece of thick titanium on the door. "Can you, please?" Remnya understood what he meant and melted the bar with her hand, welding it to the metal frame under the wood cover.


    When everything was ready, Joan destroyed the lamps hanging from the trees and smothered the last campfire. In the distance, the engines roared in unison as the exodus began, leaving a dust cloud behind the convoy that advanced toward an unknown destination.


    Joan beckoned Remnya to follow him, but she stopped to contemplate Debrin''s camp for the last time. A strange nostalgia filled her chest, and she wondered if he would ever return and what he would feel if The Hunters destroyed his cozy place.


    "I bet it won''t be the first time," Remnya murmured, walking to the garden to pick up the last pumpkin.


    Finally, she rushed to the vehicle where Brisa waited, an old blue SUV, and noticed it was cramped with luggage and at least thirteen people inside. "It''s full," the driver said, closing the door.


    "But my sister is there!" she yelled at him, knocking on the windshield.


    "Don''t worry. We''ll protect her," a woman said as she rolled down a window. "We''re all part of a big family now, remember?"


    She wasn''t entirely convinced by her words and circled the SUV, looking for Brisa''s face, until she found her sitting in the middle. "It''s okay, Rem. I''m comfortable here," Brisa assured her, waving her hand.


    Remnya bit her lower lip. "I''ll be right behind you!" she shouted and bolted toward the next vehicle, where ten people traveled.


    "There''s some space in the back," the driver said. "Hurry up!"


    She jumped on the truck bed, squeezing herself between metal boxes and her pumpkin. The truck rumbled and advanced through the rocky terrain, causing the luggage to hit Remnya''s face with each bump.


    The camp shrunk on the horizon, and within seconds, it disappeared. Only the headlights following them mitigated the darkness, illuminating the dust cloud rising behind them like brown fog. Remnya gripped the steel cage and accommodated herself to look forward, trying not to lose track of the red lights of Brisa''s SUV.


    After ten minutes, the convoy increased its speed, and the road bumps almost catapulted Remnya out of the truck. The wind hit her face violently while the vehicle ahead shot dirt and pebbles at her face, forcing her to squint to be able to see.


    Someone opened the back door and climbed to the roof. Remnya recognized him: a sniper called Sadio. He squatted skillfully and beckoned her to his side. Remnya gripped the truck with all her strength and crawled to him.


    "We''ll be ambushed soon," he said calmly, and Remnya gulped. "I need you to shoot anyone you see hiding in the trees. Destroy everything in sight if necessary."


    "What about Brisa?" Her heart kicked in her chest.


    "She will be fine. They''re all seasoned fighters. You need to focus on our truck now, understand?" Remnya hesitated for a moment and then nodded. "If we coordinate our attack properly, they stand no chance against us."


    "Do I have to kill them?" Remnya muttered, and a shiver ran down her spine.


    "By all means, do it." Sadio reached for the truck bed and grabbed two canon rifles. "Use this too, so you don''t waste your energy unnecessarily." He shoved the gun in her hands.


    "Understood." Remnya bobbed her head while sweat rolled down her forehead. The only life she had ended was Persen''s, but it hadn''t been intentional. Could she even follow such orders?


    She gripped the gun with one hand, dragged herself back to the truck bed, and waited.


    The minutes moved like hours, and clouds began to cover the sky, slowly engulfing the stars. Remnya ducked as entwined canopies passed above her head, and tree branches hit the windshield.


    A gunshot blared in her ears as Sadio fired into the darkness. She shot blind glances until something smashed their truck on the side with brutal force.


    Remnya moved her gun aimlessly as a second and heavier blow lifted the vehicle from the side. Sadio lost balance but snatched the back door and impulsed himself back on the roof.


    "Are you okay?" she asked, but a battery of gunshots from the truck windows muffled her voice. The blasts deafened her, and in the heat of the moment, she summoned a fireball in her hand to illuminate whatever they were attacking.


    Remnya discerned a masked man looming over her, but a massive explosion illuminated the night before she could react.


    Everything shook, and their truck turned over. Boxes and twisted metals smashed Remnya''s body as the world rolled around her.


    She buried her knee in the soil, and crimson fire covered her body, protecting her from the multiple impacts. She overheard screams and grunts of pain from every direction until her eyes adapted to her surroundings.


    The truck was on fire, turned over in a ditch while Debrin''s warriors faced glowing silhouettes that emerged from nothingness and vanished in the darkness. Remnya realized Brisa was ahead of them and searched for her vehicle, but there was only chaos nearby.


    Remnya stood with both hands engulfed by fire and glared at three Hunters who surrounded her, their faces displaying hatred and lust.


    "I got no time for this. I need to find Brisa," she murmured and clenched her fists, increasing the temperature of the whole forest.


    "Be careful," the masked man said, his voice penetrating like sharp steel. "That one is the crimson fire."


    "Alive or death?" a woman asked.


    "Alive if possible. Otherwise, her head should be enough."


    The time stopped, and Remnya thought of Brisa and Zeo, swearing in their names that she would survive, no matter what.


    There was a short silence.


    And then, crimson covered the night.


    *¡ã*¡ã*


    <u>Next Chapter</u>: March 18

 69: A Prideful Stride

    Zeo


    The Azul Factory had once been a prosperous producer of rocket fuel, but due to the costs of the war, the production had halted indefinitely. In a few years, it had become a giant tomb of deadly chemicals stored under tons of steel.


    A faint smell of dust and oil lingered as Zeo walked the factory hallways, carrying Stella in his arms. She was unconscious, with cuts on her arms and a contusion on her head, but Ozura assured him she hadn''t used lethal force.


    Rusted hinges squeaked as Zeo pushed a door with his foot, revealing a cramped storeroom full of broken equipment. He eased Stella onto a pile of crushed boxes, ensuring it was soft enough, and after scanning the room for hidden threats, he dropped to the floor. His body felt light and sore, and the consequences of his confrontation showed on his swollen face.


    Neither Ozura nor Karx was trustworthy, but Zeo could trust Remnya and her friendship with that grim lady. She had promised to help him as long as he provided her with information about The Hunters. Such actions could cause conflict with Marakudra''s plans, but the only thing that mattered was to protect Amy.


    Sacrifices were necessary.


    Under a stained fluorescent light, Zeo closed his eyes and rested for five minutes until footsteps from the hallway awakened his vectors. He gripped his gun and slid his vectors between the door and the exterior, analyzing the changes in the air until they recognized Ozura''s presence.


    "No need for that," the lady said as she opened the door. "We''re on the same side now."


    "I wouldn''t be so sure about that." Zeo stood up and put his hand on Stella''s arm.


    She stepped closer with her pupils locked on him. "Even if Remnya says you''re a good person, I have no reason to believe her."


    "Then, why haven''t you killed me yet?" His vectors slithered near her feet.


    "Remnya, for one." She crossed her arms. "And because I believe that with your help, our chances of winning this war will increase."


    "I don''t care about this war. All I want is for my friends to be free from these monsters."


    "And that''s why this is your war too." Ozura made a pause to look at Stella and then continued. "Hundreds of children will be kidnapped and forced to join The Hunters as canon fodder or breeding material. Even your friend, Amy. What do you think will happen if we allow that?"


    Zeo processed her words in silence.


    "If we don''t stop Azmon soon, the entire world will fall under his rule. He''ll raise armies in every country. Every child with Nephilim and Anglish blood will be his." She leaned closer, her gaze heavy like tungsten. "Most civilians see Nephilims and the like as monsters. That''s part of Azmon''s plan too. Alienate those children from society, making them hate humanity and slowly brainwashing them to be part of a so-called superior army. An army that hates crossbreeds and humans alike.


    "Tell me something, young man. Weren''t you and Remnya constantly seen as outcasts? Weren''t you rejected for being different? Wasn''t she called a horned witch? She told me about it."


    Zeo gritted his teeth and averted his gaze while her words slowly penetrated his iron shell. "Kids are assholes. You don''t need to be a Nephilim to be treated like trash."


    "True." Ozura brushed a strand of hair from her face. "But did you know about the Nephilim hunts occurring across the country? Where babies with horns are burned alive and their horns used as relics?" She leaned against the wall and folded her arms. "You and Remnya were the lucky ones. You were allowed to live by the humans who found you. Or perhaps, you two were found by someone else."


    "Like who?" Zeo swallowed while his heart rushed into his chest.


    "Like The Hunters themselves."


    Gelid silence froze Zeo''s blood.


    "I can''t tell you this for certain, but high chances are that either Azmon or his warriors found you. High chances are your parents were Hunters who died during the Blood War. It wouldn''t be the first time, and it won''t be the last."


    Zeo''s fists trembled as he assimilated her revelations. "If that''s the case. Why would they send us to an orphanage when they could groom and turn us into puppets from the beginning?"


    "I can''t answer that. I''m just telling you how The Hunters operate under Azmon''s rule." Ozura walked up to Stella and stared at her with pity in her eyes. "She''s a hybrid, and her parents were hybrids too. She''s one of the lowest creatures in their eyes. Even lower than humans. Every one of your teammates is too." Her gaze returned to him. "Haven''t you wondered why you''re in command of a group of low-class Hybrids?"


    He took a deep breath as her words began to make sense and connect the dots in his head. Why did Marakudra choose him? Was she ever honest with him? What was the true reason she had given him so much power? Neither Arkor''s, Kristina''s, nor Stella''s parents were pure Nephilims. They had been Hybrids too, and in their blood, only a meager percentage of Nephilim blood flowed.


    "You might be a hybrid Anglish, but at least one of your parents was a pure Anglish, and you inherited a great part of their genes." She gave Stella a sidelong glance. "In The Hunters'' eyes, you''re superior to them."


    "I saved my captain''s life," Zeo murmured, clenching his fists. "In exchange for that, I was granted my freedom." He lifted his reddened eyes at her and scowled. "Marakudra told me Azmon was going to do a cleanse of her army. The three of them would be used as guinea pigs anyway, so she allowed me to bring them with me." Zeo punched the metal wall, digging a hole in it. "We all were supposed to die that morning in the Siege of Lacacia."


    Ozura''s pupils dilated. "Were you there?"


    "Of course I was!" Zeo raised his voice. "You should already know that. Your boss was there. Didn''t he tell you?"


    "My boss?"


    "The man with white hair. The disgusting one who reeks of alcohol."


    "Merle."


    "Yeah, I believe that was his name."


    "He never mentioned you."


    Zeo thought for a moment and spoke carefully. "And I''m guessing Merle didn''t mention he sent his army to die there either, did he?"


    "What are you talking about?" Ozura bore her eyes on him and walked toward him slowly, her face turning pale.


    "Merle told me sacrifices were necessary, so he sent his people to die. That way, Debrin Kavram and himself could defeat The Hunters." Zeo hissed bitterly. "So you didn''t know? C''mon!"


    A case of content theft: this narrative is not rightfully on Amazon; if you spot it, report the violation.


    Ozura shook her head. "If I knew about that, I wouldn''t be here doing exactly what he ordered me."


    "Well, now you know." Zeo crossed his arms. "I heard rumors the last man standing was called Vladimore, but I still don''t know who ended his life."


    Silence.


    Ozura stood still as a statue with her vacant stare lost in nothingness.


    "Now you understand why I don''t trust anyone." Zeo observed her briefly, wondering if she would try to kill him again.


    A fake smile crossed the lady''s face, and she let out a lifeless chuckle. "I see, so Vlad was right, after all."


    Zeo blinked in confusion.


    "Thank you for telling me." Ozura sighed and put her hands on her hips. "Unfortunately, it''s too late for a change of plans now. The Hunters will arrive soon."


    Zeo caressed the tiny wound in his neck, where his tracker used to be. "Why did you choose this place to face them?"


    "Because I know this place like the back of my hand." She opened the door and walked outside. "However, you and that girl should leave as soon as possible."


    "Are you gonna stay here and die fighting alone? Just like your friends at Lacacia?" Zeo furrowed his eyebrows and shook his head. "You don''t have to follow that bastard''s orders anymore."


    "This is not for him." She cracked her knuckles, and her eyes revealed a fiery determination that sent shivers down his spine. "I came here to save as many hybrids as I could. I came here to honor my brothers and sisters, who died like caged animals that day. This is my last mission, young man."


    Zeo walked to her and tried to say something, but words never came out. He realized that no matter what, that lady wouldn''t rest until The Hunters felt the horrors of the war they had started.


    Ozura seemed to notice the concern on his face and smiled tenderly. "Regardless of the outcome of my endeavor, I want you to fulfill your mission, Zeo."


    Zeo tightened his lips, locked his eyes on her, and nodded.


    "There''s a complex net of underground tunnels beneath this factory. You must use that to escape." She drew her phone from her waist and dialed a number. "Let''s get moving. This place will turn into hell soon."


    "Understood." Zeo rushed to Stella''s side, slid his arms under her body, and picked her up.


    As they left the room, he briefly stared at her sleeping face and wondered why he cared about her life. However, the only answer he could find was an unexplainable will to save those who had believed in him despite all his mistakes.


    *¡ã*¡ã*


    Zeo followed Ozura through a series of rusted stairs, descending to the underground while the temperature slowly dropped. Despite the dire situation, that lady remained immutable and patiently explained everything he needed to know to make it out of there alive.


    She revealed the Azul Factory had once been her workplace, but the government, fearing a new war, had forced them to halt the production. Not long after that, the building of underground bunkers and tunnels started to hide the large amounts of fuel produced.


    She explained how the complex worked and gave him instructions to escape. He listened carefully and schemed an alternative plan in case things went wrong.


    They stopped before a massive circular door, and a thermometer on the wall marked the temperature had dropped below freezing point. Ozura entered a code on a touchscreen, and the door opened, shaking the ground to reveal an immense warehouse full of liquid hydrogen tanks. They hissed and emanated white fog while multiple frozen pipes pumped cryogenic gas into them.


    The gelid ambient made Zeo shiver as he squeezed Stella, trying to provide heat to her body. Ozura walked toward a small room in the middle of two massive tubes, and he rushed after her. She unlocked the door and invited him inside.


    As Zeo crossed the door, the temperature returned to normal. However, in a corner, he recognized the face of a traitor: Arkor. He lay blindfolded on the ground, his limbs and neck chained to the wall. He had been stripped from all his weapons and clothes except his underwear and shifted awkwardly, causing the metal to chime.


    Zeo eased Stella onto the ground and rushed to his ex-teammate, feeling his stomach revolting with disgust and pity. Ozura removed the blindfold from his face, revealing his dark deceiving eyes and bruised face.


    "Zeo, she''s a liar!" he shouted, shaking his body desperately. "She''s only using us to lure The Hunters into her trap!"


    "Is that so?" Zeo asked, clenching his fists while his blood boiled.


    "I don''t know what she told you, but her only goal is to destroy us! You have to believe me!"


    "Shut up!" Zeo roared, threatening him with his vectors, which grabbed his face. "Don''t try to fool me anymore. I know the truth."


    Arkor shook his head. "What''s wrong with you? We''re in this together, remember? We made this team to reclaim our freedom and survive! C''mon, man!"


    "Stop lying, you fucking bastard!" Zeo kicked him across the face, breaking his teeth and drawing blood.


    "Enough." Ozura stepped in and pushed him away from her prisoner. She crouched before Arkor and grabbed his face, forcing him to look at her. "Speak truly, young man," she whispered. "It might be your last chance."


    "I got nothing to tell you." He averted his gaze and spat blood on the floor. "You''re our enemy."


    "Listen." She placed her hand on his shoulder and bore her eyes on his pitiful figure. "This place will turn into hell soon, so whether you live to see another day or burn along with The Hunters here depends on you only."


    Arkor ignored her and looked at Zeo. "You fool. You fell for her tricks." He chuckled. "Such a disappointment. You''re just a pathetic sheep, after all."


    "You piece of shit!" Zeo stomped toward him, but Ozura stopped him again, holding him firmly.


    "Hurting him is not going to do you any good." She scowled.


    "We don''t know that." He summoned his vectors and grabbed Arkor''s foot.


    "Stop it!" she shouted.


    Zeo didn''t listen, and his violent energy reached his vectors. With a yank of his spectral arm, he twisted Arkor''s ankle, breaking it in half. The traitor let out a shriek of pain and contorted against his chains.


    Zeo tried to tear his foot off his leg, but Ozura sent him to the ground with a punch, forcing him to release Arkor.


    "Don''t be stupid!" Her calm voice had turned into thunder. "Are you trying to use the methods of The Hunters on this boy? Acting by rage will only get you and the people you love killed!"


    Her words barely reached him. He wasn''t angry Arkor had lied to him, but his actions had put Amy''s life at risk. Unforgivable. "I don''t care what method I have to use." Zeo stood up and locked his pupils on his prey. "If he refuses to speak, I''m gonna kill him."


    A loud thud echoed throughout the place, shaking the ground and causing dust to fall from the ceiling.


    Ozura looked up and twisted her lips. "Time is over," she said.


    Zeo cursed under his breath and glared at Arkor but noticed his face had changed: a hint of joy mixed with bloodlust flashed in his eyes. "It''s too late now," Arkor murmured, twisting his broken ankle, trying to fit his foot back in place. "Once they arrive, it''ll be over for you and her."


    "You''re gonna die here anyway." Zeo stepped closer under the attentive look of Ozura. "So why don''t you just admit who you''re working for?"


    "No one." He shrugged.


    "No one?" Zeo chuckled bitterly. "You''re a loyal dog to The Hunters. Your only purpose was to watch us closely and ensure we couldn''t desert!"


    "Half true." Arkor grimaced in pain as he dragged himself closer to the wall. "Zagado knew Marakudra was too volatile and prideful to follow orders, and her ideals differed from Lord Azmon''s, so he asked me to keep a close eye on her and keep him informed about all the decisions in our army."


    "Zagado?" Zeo asked, blinking in confusion.


    "Captain Zagado Rain," Ozura added, crossing her arms. "One of Azmon''s most trusted allies."


    Arkor snickered. "With all the information I''ve gathered for them, Marakudra''s days have come to an end."


    "You''re a despicable rat," Zeo spat while Ozura held him by the arm tightly.


    "If you''re revealing us this, that means you''re confident enough that they''ll come to your rescue. Am I wrong, young man?"


    "Oh, maybe." Arkor gestured with his eyebrows toward the surface.


    His words sent a shiver down Zeo''s spine, yet Ozura remained unyielding and walked out of the room to scan the ceiling.


    "Yeah," she whispered. "They''re here."


    Zeo stood next to her and swallowed through a closed throat. "What''s next?"


    "The stairs at the end of this place lead to the first tunnel." Her muscles tensed, and a purple aura emanated from her body. "Take door number six. The codes are UQL639 and RJW944. A trusted friend of mine called Manzur will be waiting for you at the orphanage, so get there before it''s too late. Understood?"


    Zeo nodded, clenching his fists. "Are you gonna fight alone?"


    She smirked. "Believe it or not, I can handle a few Hunters on my own. You don''t need to worry about me."


    "Why are you helping me?" he asked while his vectors perceived The Hunters'' presence getting closer.


    "Because Remnya believed in you." Ozura looked at him tenderly and smiled. "And so do I."


    Silence.


    "Please, go now."


    "Thank you," Zeo said and bowed to her.


    He rushed to Stella, kneeled beside her, and picked her up, and before leaving the room, he glanced at Arkor. The traitor winked at him and sneered. Whatever that meant didn''t matter; he could only pity him.


    Zeo walked past Ozura, exchanging a silent goodbye, and sprinted toward his destination, finally understanding why Remnya had befriended that lady. A mix of shame and pride filled his heart as he looked at Ozura for the last time, knowing that he would never be able to repay her.


    Nonetheless, his fate was his again, and he vowed not to disappoint her and save those who still believed in a pathetic boy with long ears, the same boy who had once feared death.


    *¡ã*¡ã*

 70: Childhood

    Remnya


    Crimson flames illuminated the forest, charring the grass beneath Remnya''s feet and revealing the faces of those who wanted her life. The voices of her mind muffled the battle cries of the night as she focused on her endeavor. Even though her life could end, her heart pumped an unbreakable will to live through her veins.


    Remnya thought of those who had left the world and lifted her gaze to stare death straight in the eyes.


    I won''t lose today.


    Silence.


    A tree collapsed under the flames.


    And a Hunter charged at her, closing the distance before she could blink.


    Remnya dodged a fist to the face and a kick to the stomach while an energy ball blinded her from the side.


    She waited until the last moment to dodge the attack, which hissed by her shoulder and then counterattacked with her fire.


    An incandescent snake sparkled with crimson lightning from her right hand.


    Her attacker evaded it, but she shot another one from her left hand. The man leaped aside desperately, groaning as the fire burned his arm.


    From behind, a woman tried to kick her head, forcing her to block with her forearm. Soon after, a punch reached her jaw, shaking her surroundings.


    Tasting blood, Remnya snatched her wrist tightly, and flames erupted from her skin like gas torches.


    The woman shrieked in pain as the fire wrapped around her arm and spread to her torso. Remnya recoiled in disgust when the smell of burning flesh reached her nose; it reminded her of Persen.


    A lightning bolt impacted her shoulder, pushing Remnya against a tree with a stinging pain on her side. A shadow in the distance prepared another skill, but before it could attack her, Remnya shoved her palms forward, gritted her teeth, and shot a fireball.


    When her enemy tried to react, it was too late.


    BOOM!


    A fire mushroom rose to the sky, and a flaming body flew through the night, falling in the distance. Smoke and embers covered the sky while the ground where her attack impacted glowed like magma.


    Remnya rushed to extinguish the fire devouring her enemies, avoiding their deaths, and glared at them. The woman panted while deep burns smoked on her arms and chest. Part of her uniform had turned into ashes, revealing a charred bleeding torso.


    However, the masked one was unscathed and smirked at her; only his dark lips were visible. "Impressive," he said. "The rumors about the crimson fire seem to be true."


    "Why aren''t you attacking?" She scowled as flames intertwined with her hair.


    "I didn''t want to interrupt your magnificent display of power." He chuckled. "But tell me, why are you holding back?"


    "I don''t wanna kill any of you," she murmured, clenching her fists. "I just want you to get out of my sight!"


    "Is that why my pets are still alive?" He sneered and looked at the woman next to him. "If you don''t finish them, I will, for you."


    "Pets?" Remnya glared at him, her eyes glowing. "What kind of sick game is this?"


    "You could call this their baptism of fire." He giggled, glancing at his other subordinate, who slowly limped away from the ashes with his body falling apart. "Quite literally."


    Her fists trembled, and blood boiled in her veins. "You coward! Don''t send them to do your dirty job!" She stepped forward and took a defensive stance. "Fight!"


    "Do you wish to continue?" he asked the woman.


    She hesitated, her eyes displaying fear as she stared at Remnya for long seconds. "Yes, Lieutenant Ferron," she whispered, gritting her teeth due to the pain. "Please, let me continue."


    "As you wish." He shrugged.


    "Stop fighting!" Remnya shouted at the woman, pride and anger taking over her heart. "You''re no match for me, and he doesn''t even care about your life. This is a pointless fight!"


    "Shut up!" the woman retorted and charged at her clumsily.


    Her stubbornness cracked the last bit of patience left in Remnya. Ultimately, her only goal was to eliminate her obstacles and reach Brisa as soon as possible. She had no time for games anymore.


    "Sorry," Remnya murmured and darted toward her enemies, her eyes locked on their lieutenant. The woman tried to hit her, but Remnya crushed her nose with a violent punch, knocking her unconscious, and then advanced toward Ferron while flames engulfed her body.


    A stream of fire shot out of her hand, and the man shoved his hands forward.


    The attack exploded against his palms and diverted in multiple directions, forming crimson tongues that crossed the sky and impacted the ground across the battlefield.


    Remnya focused on his movements; decided to end that battle once and for all. Her body temperature increased drastically, and vapor came out of her mouth as she bared her teeth.


    Ferron chuckled, and a harrowing smirk deformed his mask. "Marvelous."


    A flash turned the night into day, and her fist impacted his forearm as he blocked it. The next one smashed his shoulder, and he counterattacked with a jab that scratched her chin.


    Remnya remembered Ozura''s advice and used the temperature of her body to wear the enemy''s stamina. They engaged in a fast exchange where their knuckles clashed into small shockwaves that spread across the battlefield.


    Several impacts landed on Remnya''s face and body, but she had gotten used to Merle''s brutal strength, and despite the pain, they weren''t enough to stop her. Plus, her fire mitigated his attacks and cauterized her wounds.


    Sweat shone on Ferron''s skin as the battle progressed, and Remnya combined her punches with fast fireballs he diverted with great dexterity. But when the Hunter backed away, Remnya summoned a large fire sphere in her hand.


    However, a lance made of ice emerged from the ground and lunged at her face. She evaded it by inches, but two more lances rushed at her from both sides. Remnya ducked the first and jumped over the second one.


    As she tried to resume her attack, she saw Ferron looming over her.


    A fist heavy like concrete buried her head into the ground, and blood came out of her mouth. The impact made everything shake around her, and her ears whistled, but despite the confusion, Remnya found an opening and threw a fireball at Ferron as he tried to hit her again.


    He leaped aside, evading her attack, but Remnya caught his ankle. He tried to crush her head with his boot, but she released an explosion of energy through her body. Flames shot in his direction and covered Ferron, who protected his body with a thick ice layer.


    Remnya stood and focused all her energy on finishing that fight. A profound anxiety and melancholy filled her body, and her heart kicked in her chest violently. She groaned as a crimson mist emerged from her back and grew into the sky until it turned into a monstrous skeleton.


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    It had taken her several months to control the crimson ghost, and Merle had advised her not to use it unless necessary. But Remnya knew her sister needed her.


    Ferron widened his eyes at the monumental sight, and his ice layer began to melt.


    "I don''t want to kill you . . . " she muttered and let out a roar of anger and frustration. "I DIDN''T WANT TO KILL YOU!"


    The beast in her pounced on the Hunter, covering him in a blaze of thousand degrees. He said something, but his body disappeared behind the crimson ghost.


    BOOM!


    The explosion pushed Remnya away, throwing her violently against burning trees. She flew against trunks and rocks while a giant mushroom of plasma, smoke, and lightning rose like an atomic detonation.


    Her body finally stopped, but the ground still vibrated under her. Remnya coughed blood and smoke as the flames of her body crackled furiously against the pile of wood and rocks she lay on. Recoiling with pain, she pushed herself back to her feet and staggered like a zombie until her legs collapsed.


    She buried her knees in the ground and lifted her eyes to witness the chaos she had caused.


    The place had turned into an inferno, with fires surrounding everything in sight. Embers and molten rocks showered the battlefield and painted the sky crimson and orange. Nonetheless, Remnya''s only concern was to find her sister.


    She locked her eyes on the west and stood up, gritting her teeth. "Brisa, wait for me," she murmured, ignoring the pain as her tired, sore legs moved toward an unknown destination.


    *¡ã*¡ã*


    Remnya hopped over a dismembered corpse and increased her speed while a brutal battle unfolded around her. Chaos became her reality, embracing her restless heart. People she knew perished by her feet, and their screams blared in her ears. Yet she couldn''t stop.


    A mangled body flew before her eyes, and something hit her back violently, making her lose her balance. But she refused to fall; fire engulfed her body, burning anyone trying to stop her. Even if it felt like a betrayal, she advanced without looking behind and ignored the shadows pleading for mercy.


    She couldn''t stop.


    Time moved slowly, and the metallic reek of blood asphyxiated her.


    She couldn''t stop.


    No matter what happened, her only goal was to save her sister.


    She couldn''t stop.


    As the night grew older, the darkness began to appease the mayhem. Remnya slowed her sprint, barely feeling her legs while her flames vanished. Even though the screams faded in the distance, they still echoed in her brain, over and over.


    She halted by a large pine and leaned on its trunk to catch her breath and recognize her surroundings. The horizon glowed like the gates of hell, and for every passing second, a new life reached its end.


    Looking over a nearby pit, she saw a totaled truck buried in the ground. It was empty, but Remnya realized she could communicate with the survivors using its radio transmitter. She rushed to it and yanked off the door to reach the cockpit.


    The radio still worked, so she made several calls. "This is Remnya," she said, her hands shaking. "If anyone knows Brisa''s location, please tell me!" Her fingers tightened around the device. "Please!"


    She repeated the same message several times, desperation growing with each attempt.


    . . .


    "Follow the road."


    . . .


    Remnya''s pupils dilated. It was a voice she had never heard before, and an ominous sensation filled her stomach. "Who is this?"


    "Follow the road," they repeated, and the transmission cut off. She insisted on her questions, but they never answered again.


    A gelid shiver crawled up and down her back like a giant spider about to pierce her skin. Remnya clenched her fists and stood, glaring at the dirt road ahead, knowing she had no choice but to obey that voice. It was the only clue that led to her sister.


    Flames engulfed her body again, and she took off, running as fast as her legs allowed.


    Remnya penetrated the darkness like a blazing lance, leaving a trail of crimson behind her, making the forest tremble with her presence. Multiple scenarios flashed in her mind, but she focused on her goal. Brisa and Zaoly were the fuel feeding her soul.


    In the distance, she descried the headlights of a parked vehicle.


    Her heart rate accelerated as the sight became clearer. Out of breath, Remnya halted before a grim scene, her blood freezing.


    It was Brisa''s vehicle.


    All her fellow Karx members had perished. The driver''s head lay on top of a tree stump in front of the headlights that reflected in his lifeless eyes. Beneath, his companions'' heads formed a circle around it in a humiliating display.


    Remnya''s body was stiff like ice while she dragged her feet toward the scene. She trembled as her dilated pupils looked for her sister''s head.


    But it was nowhere to be found.


    "I knew you''d come," a gentle yet harrowing voice forced her to shoot a glare toward the shadows.


    A masked man walked forward, materializing his figure under the headlights. His mask resembled a skull, with hollow eyes that glowed in an intense green. His uniform was pitch black, and his cape waved gently against the breeze.


    His presence was heavy like tungsten and seemed to crush her bones. However, the world collapsed on her shoulders when she witnessed Brisa lying on the ground next to him.


    Her sister was bleeding with multiple contusions yet conscious. She crawled forward, lifted her golden eyes at Remnya, and murmured an inaudible plea.


    That monster grabbed her sister by the hair, lifting her before her eyes, and Remnya''s heart exploded with the fury of thousands of demons.


    "GET YOUR HANDS OFF HER!" she roared, charging at him while flames burst from her body.


    When she came face to face with him, a flash blinded her, and an electric shock paralyzed her body, sending her violently against the ground with excruciating pain through her veins.


    Remnya groaned, spitting blood, and tried to get up, but her limbs trembled, unable to support her weight. She turned and tossed against the soil, desperately trying to stand.


    "Pitiful," he said. "Despite being a pure Nephilim, you waste your potential on worthless creatures."


    Remnya buried her tail in the ground, using it to push herself upward, and gritting her teeth, she stood up. She tried to shout, but only desperate whispers left her mouth. "She has nothing to do with this." She glared, her jaw shaking. "Take me if you want, but leave her out of this!"


    He looked at Brisa and swayed her like a rag doll. "So . . . This creature is the one holding you back." He lifted his left hand and aimed his sharp claws at her sister''s back. "But worry not. I''ll free you from your chains at once."


    "NO!" The ground exploded beneath Remnya as she propelled herself with her fire, a crimson stream of fury and agony. "DON''T DO IT!"


    The crimson ghost erupted from her body and tried to tear apart the demon before her. All her emotions clashed into a monstrous shriek that gave birth to a gigantic banshee that wailed with sorrow and despair.


    All her life energy attacked that demon in a last attempt to protect her sister.


    Everything vaporized around them like a sun on earth, consuming the remnants of the people she knew and the whole forest with them. Remnya traveled through the plasma of her last will, trying to stop the demon who threatened to take her family away.


    Remnya gave everything in her heart and soul to stop him.


    . . .


    Remnya gave her last breath to stop the man she hated more than anything in life.


    . . .


    Remnya abandoned her humanity that night.


    . . .


    Remnya grabbed her sister, embracing her in her flames as a furious inferno consumed reality, destroying the nature she loved so much. Innocent creatures died that night, and with them, all her dreams.


    Tears rolled down her eyes like a waterfall, creating steam that blurred her vision.


    Brisa lifted her dilated pupils at her and smiled, with her face covered in blood.


    Remnya squeezed her sister tightly, feeling her thick warm blood drenching her hands, which sprouted from her chest like crimson roses.


    She was cold, her breath vanishing, yet she had the strength to whisper her last plea in her ear. "Save Zaoly, please."


    Remnya widened her eyes in shock and stared at her sister. "What are you saying?"


    "He''s still alive . . . " Brisa murmured, her lips trembling. "I''m sorry for asking you this, Rem . . . " She gripped her hand.


    "I can still save you both!" Remnya picked Brisa up and tried to walk, denying reality for the last time, but her sister stopped her.


    "Please, Rem!" she cried, her voice fading with each word. "I don''t have much time left. You need to save him!"


    Remnya gritted her teeth, dropping to the ground, burying her knees in molten soil. "I''m sorry . . . " Her tears burned her eyes like acid. "I''m sorry I couldn''t protect you . . . "


    "Don''t blame yourself." Brisa''s trembling hand reached out for her face, and Remnya gripped it tightly against her cheek. "You''re my little sister, and I''ll always love you."


    "I love you too . . . " Remnya''s throat burned, choking her words. She pulled her sister against her chest and trembled, holding back all her pain to ease her last moments. "And I promise you I''ll protect Zaoly with my life," she lied, feeling the warm blood of her abdomen sliding between her fingers.


    "Thank you . . . " Brisa murmured and laid her head on her chest, silently assuring Remnya that she would always be with her.


    When the wind ceased, her beautiful golden eyes froze forever.


    And with his mother, Zaoly stopped moving.


    Silence embraced the chaos of the forest, and black smoke covered the sky, engulfing the stars.


    No more light.


    Her crimson fire couldn''t illuminate their lives.


    . . .


    With her heart shattering into million pieces that pierced her soul, Remnya eased Brisa onto the ground and placed her hand on her sister''s abdomen. She pushed against it, hoping, wishing, Zaoly would move again.


    . . .


    Nothing.


    . . .


    That demon''s hand had snatched his life too.


    Hatred devoured her existence, and she wished her fire would consume her with them.


    Her mind wandered off, wondering if Marcus had ever forgiven her. She wondered if Magenta had ever found peace. She wondered if Persen was still burning in hell.


    Remnya wondered if Ronner would hate her for having failed.


    Her emotions remained frozen in a void of time, but her nightmare was not over yet. Multiple shadows gathered around her to watch her pitiful self. They laughed at her misery and mocked her existence.


    Remnya hugged her sister with all her strength and kissed her cheek. "Don''t worry, Bris," she murmured, taking her gold pendant between her trembling fingers. "I''ll be with you two soon."


    The agony of her mind numbed the pain of her body and soul, and she stood up to stare death straight in the eyes.


    Flames erupted from her insides furiously, craving vengeance. The Crimson Fire had no reason to protect anymore and was prepared to execute her last will.


    To burn the whole world with her.


    *¡ã*¡ã*

 71: Jeremiad

    Remnya


    Hell consumed everything Remnya had once loved while tears slowly evaporated from her eyes. Her sister''s lifeless body and baby had vanished into her flames, becoming a painful memory.


    A memory of her failure.


    Because of her weakness, an innocent soul would never get to see the light of the world. But neither would Remnya. She looked at the reddened sky and gripped her sister''s gold pendant in her trembling fist.


    Distorted silhouettes emerged from the flames, with their eyes glowing like torches.


    Death had finally come for her.


    Remnya staggered toward them as her legs threatened to give up, searching for the demon who had destroyed her dreams. However, his rotten presence was gone. Only mere beasts remained, claiming her life.


    Even though her body was at its limit, she had enough hell in her veins to turn them all into ashes. "Come on, you fucking cowards!" Remnya roared throughout the night, blood running down her forehead, mixing with dried tears. "I''ll burn you all until my last breath!"


    Scornful laughter resounded in the distance, and three shadows charged at her.


    Punches and kicks punished her body, bringing Remnya to her knees. Yet her fire attacked them like vicious snakes with open jaws. She no longer cared about defense or whether her whole body was destroyed. Her only mission was to eradicate their existence.


    Some shrieked like horrified hyenas as they melted away, a sound she had always hated. But at that moment, their terror eased her vindictive soul. The more disgusting Hunters she took with her, the better.


    Remnya lost count of how many burned to death; her mind vanished into a silent pandemonium where all she could see was crimson. The smell of burning flesh became natural, and the horrified screams of dying monsters were soothing.


    Her world crumbled into an abyss, descending to the depths of hell. The only home a demon with horns deserved.


    Remnya descended into the inferno that was her new reality.


    The voices in her head joined the chaos of her mind, and the same events replayed incessantly in her brain; that cursed demon''s hand penetrating her sister''s abdomen and her warm blood flowing between her fingers.


    Endless torture.


    The torture she deserved for having failed.


    The torture she deserved for having broken her promises.


    The torture she deserved for being a Nephilim.


    How she wished she could die.


    Yet, for some damn reason, her soul refused to leave her damned body.


    Let me go . . .


    I just want to go!


    I DON''T WANT TO BE HERE ANYMORE!


    . . .


    . . .


    . . .


    <figure>


    </figure>


    Remnya woke up.


    Her body lay on the ground, covered in cold sweets, surrounded by darkness and silence.


    The stars reflected on her pupils, and a gentle breeze cooled her skin, dragging the ashes away.


    Remnya remained motionless, contemplating the sounds of the night. She glimpsed her surroundings and discerned several burnt corpses hissing and smoking around her.


    However, many of them lay mutilated with no trace of burns. Remnya lingered over the scene, realizing someone else had joined the massacre.


    . . .


    His presence interrupted the quietness of death.


    "What are you doing here?" she asked, her voice dry and lifeless.


    Debrin Kavram was sitting on a pile of corpses, his sunset eyes glowing as they stared at her misery. "Stopping you from doing something stupid," he said.


    His words made her blood boil. Remnya slammed her elbows on the ground to lift her torso and glared at him. "Fuck you!" she shouted and began coughing, her throat full of ashes and blood.


    "You have every right to hate me." Debrin folded his arms, undisturbed by her reaction. "But you must know that as soon as the news reached my ears, I left everything behind and returned."


    "You weren''t here when we needed you the most!" Remnya screamed her words like poisonous knives while acute pain spread through her head from her broken jaw. "You''re no leader! You''re just another piece of shit who abandoned his people!"


    Debrin looked at her for a moment, and his lips twitched. "I might be an awful leader. I probably never deserved any of you by my side. I might be a piece of shit, as you call me. But I never abandoned you."


    The genuine version of this novel can be found on another site. Support the author by reading it there.


    Remnya gritted her teeth, observing how The Hunters'' blood washed the scorched soil. "What about the people at the camp? What about Vladimore''s army? They all died waiting for you!"


    Debrin''s expression changed as he stood up, crushing a burnt hand with his boot. "I tasked Merle with protecting the camp during my absence." Remnya witnessed a hint of anger in his emotionless face. "He had multiple ways to foresee this ambush and prepare accordingly, yet for some reason, he let it happen."


    "So, is all this his fault now?" Remnya chuckled bitterly and slammed her fist on the ground. "Haven''t you considered he might be dead too?"


    "Impossible." He shook his head. "I surveyed the whole place, and no Vetzlayer was present in this attack."


    "What the hell is that?" Remnya furrowed her eyebrows.


    "Azmon''s Elite Warriors. They aren''t deployed unless necessary." He glanced over the remnants of The Hunters. "For ambushes like this, they send Executioners, who are lower in the hierarchy and solely trained to torture and kill. I know they commanded this attack, and Merle was fully prepared to face such a threat."


    "What if he was outnumbered?"


    "No," he said firmly. "The main reason I trusted Merle with protecting the camp was that I knew he could handle those masked deviants alone."


    "Masked?"


    "You''ll recognize them by their skull masks and the number on their foreheads. They also execute traitors and hunt deserters."


    "Skull masks . . . " Remnya murmured, the veins in her forehead bulging with hatred as she remembered that demon.


    "I know how you feel, Remnya," Debrin said, kneeling beside her, and lowered his head before her furious gaze. "I could say I''m sorry I failed you, but that will do nothing for you."


    Even though Remnya wanted to spit on his face, his words felt honest. She looked away and spoke with disdain. "You''re right. Your apologies mean nothing to me."


    Debrin grabbed a backpack he carried around his shoulder and drew a small flask from it. "At least allow me to heal your body."


    "I don''t need it." She scowled and tried to stand, but her arms and legs were broken. Yet she ignored the pain, and driven by pure hatred, she stood up, gritting her teeth while her broken bones cracked.


    "You''ll die if your wounds aren''t treated immediately." He stared at the damage in the rest of her body; a deep hole in her stomach reached her entrails and a deep cut across her face blinded her left eye.


    "I don''t care about dying!" She glared at him, holding her abdomen, trying to stop her insides from coming out.


    "What about Zeo?"


    Remnya swallowed and clenched her fists. Her sister and Zaoly were gone, yet she had one more mission left before leaving that cursed world. "I''ve not forgotten about him," she admitted as she lost balance.


    Debrin caught her before she hit the ground. "If you still plan to rescue your friend, you must recover as soon as possible."


    Remnya pushed him away and took a moment to chew his words. As much as she wished to avenge her sister and save his friend, her body was useless. "I''ll save Zeo," she said firmly, staring Debrin deep into the eyes. "And then I''ll kill the fucking demon who took Brisa from me." Her fury burst through her eyes, turning into bloody tears that rolled down her bruised cheeks.


    Debrin held his gaze on hers and nodded. "If that''s what you want, let me help you."


    "This is my mission. Not yours." She bit her lower lip while flames covered her face, destroying her tears. "All I need right now is to recover my strength."


    "I do not plan to interfere with your mission. All I want is to give you a chance to make it a reality." Debrin summoned his vectors; four spectral arms glowed in an intense orange light. "So, can you please sit down? I''ll close your wounds before you lose more blood."


    Remnya exhaled with resignation and allowed herself to fall. Her back slammed on the ground, and she held back the desire to scream.


    She gritted her teeth and looked at the stars while Debrin began to treat her wounds.


    "Why do you claim this was Merle''s fault?" she asked, trying to get distracted from the pain.


    "Because Merle allowed this to happen."


    "Why would he do that?"


    "That''s beyond my understanding, but ordering a convoy with all our people to drive through enemy territory is not a rookie mistake."


    Remnya swallowed as his words penetrated her brain. "He''s your friend, isn''t he? How can you not know?"


    Debrin finished healing her stomach before speaking again. "The war is cruel, Remnya. People who go through excruciating pain and irreparable trauma change. Many times for the worse. Merle is no exception to that rule. No matter how much he tries to hide it."


    "If what you say is true." She clenched her fist, feeling her blood boiling in her veins. "He''s responsible for Brisa''s death too."


    Debrin''s vectors tugged her skin as they closed the last wound on her face, and a warm sensation seemed to ease the pain. He finally spoke. "I truly meant to protect my people." He tightened his lips. "That''s why I always fought my battles alone, but eventually, I had to sacrifice important friends too. All in hopes of saving as many lives as possible.


    "When I left that morning, I didn''t go to Lacacia. I headed to The Hunters'' Headquarters and destroyed 90% of their armies, forcing them to halt their operations for weeks. That gave me enough time to prepare my next move." He leaned his cold hand on her forehead and rubbed a stinky ointment on her skin. "Thanks to my people''s sacrifice, I finally could figure out Azmon''s weakness. The key to ending this war."


    Remnya processed his speech slowly, unable to decipher his true intentions. Yet, if there was a method to end those monsters, she wanted it to succeed. "What''s his weakness then?"


    "Azmon Infernoz had a daughter. Lilith." Debrin locked his pupils on hers. "She died six years ago, but that daughter had a son. And the reason I returned to Crysalton was to find out the location of that child."


    "Does Azmon even care about his grandson?"


    "He definitely does." Debrin narrowed his eyes. "He''s done everything in his power to hide his existence from us."


    "So you''re gonna use his grandson as bait," Remnya guessed, expressionless.


    Debrin didn''t give her an answer and continued. "Azmon thought he had managed to erase every bit of information regarding his family. However, he forgot an important piece of this puzzle. A piece I found in the Lovecraft Mansion."


    Remnya widened her eyes. "Did Magenta know about this?"


    "Doubtful, but the Lovecraft Mansion had once belonged to Azmon, and Lilith met Magenta there. You could say they became friends and shared some secrets. Ironically, Magenta kept an important piece of information hidden in the underground passages of the mansion. Information that could end the legacy of the man she hated the most."


    Remnya assimilated his words in silence and then spoke. "If that''s true, she might finally rest in peace . . . "


    Debrin sighed. "Remnya. We have both lost important people in this conflict, but for the first time, there''s hope for millions of innocent lives."


    She twisted her lips and nodded. "Eradicating The Hunters from Earth will certainly help fix this disgusting world."


    Debrin stood, and his vectors vanished. "Please remain still while the Netomics take effect."


    "Netomics?" Her jaw dropped.


    "Yeah." He shrugged. "Guess you didn''t notice when I injected them in your body."


    "Why the hell did you do that?" She scowled.


    "Because they will help you regenerate your body." He folded his arms. "Besides, these are Class B Netomics. There won''t be undesirable side effects on you."


    "Who did they belong to?"


    "Do you really want to know?"


    Remnya blinked in confusion and annoyance but realized she was too exhausted to care about the morality of such actions anymore. "Whatever." She closed her eyes. "All I want is to recover as soon as possible."


    Debrin bobbed his head and turned toward the piles of corpses surrounding them. "Now, please, try to rest while I purge this place. Too many souls are lamenting in my ears right now."


    "What are they saying?"


    "Too many words to understand right now. Anger, grief, regret." He took a deep breath. "It''s better not to worry about it at the moment. There''ll be time to satisfy each one of their demands."


    "Do you hear Brisa?"


    "No. Her soul only belongs to you."


    *¡ã*¡ã*

 72: Bitter Honey

    Zeo


    An explosion in the distance shook the ground, and chunks of rock hit Zeo as he advanced through a cold tunnel sunken in absolute darkness. His vectors guided his way and protected Stella, who remained unconscious in his arms, ignorant of the fragility of her life.


    After kilometers of restless running, Zeo finally reached the end of the route. Catching his breath, he groped an object obstructing his pass and remembered Ozura''s words about a heavy iron door covering the exit. He eased Stella onto the ground, which felt soft with grass and mud, and leaned against the metal structure.


    Aided by his vectors, Zeo pushed the door with all his strength, huffing and puffing until a fresh breeze blew through a small opening. The aroma of wildflowers reached his nose, imbued with a sense of freedom. He focused all his energy on the last effort and gave a violent thrust that made the door screech loudly.


    A mountain of dirt and rust fell on Zeo, who squinted his eyes and stuck his head out of the hole. Stars flashed above him, revealing an open field with dry vegetation and leafless trees. The town lights glowed on the horizon while gunshots echoed in the distance.


    Zeo returned for Stella and took her behind a pile of rocks and rotten trunks near the tunnel''s exit. Sitting on the ground, he recovered energy and analyzed his next move. As long as Ozura resisted, The Hunters would be distracted, so he had to move fast. However, a vehicle was necessary.


    He scanned his surroundings and spotted the main road on the other side of the field. It was a short sprint for him alone, so the idea of leaving Stella behind invaded his head. Yet, he had vowed to save her along with Kristina, who was still in Ozura''s hideout. They don''t deserve to die like this, he thought and picked up Stella.


    Zeo crossed the arid land, jumping over rocks and thorny bushes while his heart kicked in his chest. When he reached the road, two headlights approaching them in the distance gave him an idea. He held Stella with his vectors and raised his arms, waving at the upcoming vehicle.


    A red car stopped on the roadside, and an overweight man walked out. He adjusted his glasses and widened his eyes. "Are you okay? What happened? Is she alive?" he asked, looking at Stella with concern.


    "She''s still alive," Zeo answered. "But I need to get to the hospital as soon as possible."


    "Let''s go then!" He rushed to open the backdoor.


    "Thanks." Zeo walked forward and took a deep breath, relieved he wouldn''t have to coerce an innocent civilian. He placed Stella in the backseat, closed the door, and sat beside the driver.


    "What happened?" the man asked, doing a U-turn to return to the town.


    "We were hit by a car." Zeo glanced left and right, searching for threats and possible ambushes from the shadows. "They drove away and left us here."


    "How terrible! Are you hurt?"


    "I''m fine."


    The man kept talking, but Zeo didn''t care about his words. He had to think fast to succeed and wondered if Ozura would decide to blow up the whole place. Such a large amount of fuel would kill anyone within a one-kilometer radius; even a Nephilim would struggle to survive unless they were fire-resistant like Remnya.


    "Old man," Zeo said, gripping the door handle. "Where are you from?"


    "I''m from here, District number 76. You know it?"


    "I do. I just hope we''re not delaying you."


    "Oh, don''t worry." He chuckled. "I was heading to my farm, but that can wait. This is more important."


    "Would you mind passing by the orphanage?" Zeo asked as they reached the main avenue.


    "But your friend needs medical attention!"


    "You''re right."


    They stopped at a red light, and Zeo glanced at his surroundings. There were no cars behind.


    "Thank you for the help," Zeo murmured, and before the man could answer, he knocked him unconscious with a blow to the back of the head.


    He rushed into the driver seat, grabbed the man with his vectors, and dragged him to the sidewalk. He took his phone and dialed the emergency number before returning to the car.


    Ignoring the red light, Zeo accelerated and turned left toward his destination. The lampposts passed by him like flashes, capturing his reckless actions, and the few pedestrians he saw seemed to look at him with judgemental eyes. Was he doing the right thing?


    It didn''t matter anymore.


    Zeo crossed the town and reached his destination. He circled the block where the orphanage was and parked behind the building.


    Taking a deep breath, he stepped out of the car and stood still, witnessing his last day as a free man. If Arkor spoke truly, Marakudra and her army would meet their demise soon. Besides, Ozura wouldn''t be able to resist for long if a Vetzlayer like Zagado was involved in that battle.


    "You''re fast," a short man walked out of the shadows and stood before him.


    Zeo locked his eyes on him as his vectors buzzed loudly.


    "Wait!" The man raised his hands. "I''m here by orders of Lieutenant Ozura. My name is Manzur."


    "Is that so?" Zeo scowled and used his vectors to detect other presences, but he was the only one there. Then, he remembered Ozura''s instructions and lowered his vectors. "So you''re her friend."


    "More like her loyal servant." He giggled and glanced at the car. "I''ll guard this place so you can proceed with your mission. So please, go ahead and get Amy to safety."


    Zeo stared at him for a moment and frowned. "How do you know her name?"


    "Didn''t my lieutenant tell you?"


    "No."


    "That child is my lady Ozura''s daughter."


    Zeo''s eyes widened like full moons. "What are you saying?"


    "It''s a long story, and we have no time for that right now, so please," Manzur gestured with his chin at the orphanage, "hurry up."


    Zeo nodded, processing the shock of his revelation, and jumped over the orphanage walls evading the barbed wire and sensors that triggered the alarms. He landed inside, rushed to the backdoor, and kicked it open.


    As Zeo ran upstairs, he remembered all the orphans were locked in their rooms by midnight, so he would need to force his entrance to Amy''s room. However, when he made it there, the door was already open. All he had to do was push it as quietly as possible.


    Stolen from its original source, this story is not meant to be on Amazon; report any sightings.


    In the darkness, he found Amy sitting on the bed with two bags on each side. She scrutinized his face in judgemental silence. Zeo gritted his teeth with regret, approached his little friend, and kneeled before her. "Why are you awake?" he whispered.


    She tilted her head and furrowed her eyebrows. "That spooky old man told me everything."


    "What? He did?" Zeo gaped.


    Amy nodded and brushed her messy hair with her fingertips. "If you came here so late at night, it means the bad people want me. Right?"


    Zeo nodded reluctantly, clawing the mattress with frustration.


    Amy pouted and folded her arms. "I didn''t want to miss my friend''s birthday."


    "We''ll return soon. I promise." Zeo sat next to her and caressed her head. "Once the bad people are gone, I''ll take you to live with me, and we''ll come to visit the orphanage every day if you want." He grabbed her hand and forced a smile. "I''ll do everything I can for you, Amy. You''re my little sister. Do you remember that?"


    Amy placed her other hand on his face and touched his eyepatch. "Will we go to see Rem too?"


    "Of course! We''ll get to hang out with Rem soon." As those words left his mouth, he questioned them. Will he ever be able to see Rem again?


    Amy lowered her gaze and squeezed his hand. "Well, you promised you''d come back for me, and you did."


    "I''d never break a promise." He stared deeply into her eyes. "Not to you."


    Amy looked at him silently for what seemed hours and then nodded. "Okay . . . " Holding back her tears, she wrapped her arms around him tightly. "I trust you, so I''ll come with you."


    A warm sensation filled Zeo''s soul as he hugged her little sister back and brushed her soft hair. "Thank you," he whispered, squeezing her tender body.


    You''re my last reason to live.


    *¡ã*¡ã*


    Zeo sat on a bench in the courtyard while Amy packed all her belongings and said goodbye to her friends.


    Silence lingered in the orphanage, but the kids'' voices still echoed in those ancient walls, along with faint waves of memories from the past. All those years of survival had forged his persona and led to the moment he contemplated in the present.


    Nonetheless, a new opportunity seemed to arise for someone who had lost all hope.


    As Zeo closed his eyes and pondered his choice, his vectors perceived a presence nearby.


    "Sneaking into the girls'' dorms at night, uh?" someone said from the hallway.


    Zeo turned to see Gina walking in his direction, and conflicting emotions filled his heart. Part of him felt relieved she wouldn''t be involved with a monster like himself. Yet, his egoistical self hated that fate.


    He wondered if life had just written it that way.


    "Of course not," he replied. "Why are you awake, though?"


    "I drank too much water." Gina shrugged, stopping in front of him. "And I stole that old fart''s keys a while ago." She smirked, displaying a key chain.


    Zeo shook his head and stood up. "You shouldn''t be here."


    "That weird old man told me the same."


    "That guy doesn''t know when to shut up," he murmured.


    "It seems like you can never catch a break."


    Zeo shrugged. "So, you already know why I am here?"


    "I can tell by the bruises on your face." Gina leaned closer, touched his swollen cheek, and wiped a line of blood that spilled from the side of his mouth. "Are you okay?"


    "Don''t worry about it." Zeo removed the blood with his backhand.


    "Those people hurt you again." She grabbed his face between her hands.


    Even though Zeo wanted to pull away from her, a warm sensation in his body stopped him. He locked his eyes on her and spoke. "What people?"


    Gina scowled and pinched his cheeks. "You don''t have to hide it from me anymore, Zeo! I know enough." She sighed, sadness glistening in her eyes. "I know you''re trying to protect Amy. You can trust me. I won''t judge you for anything you do."


    "Gina . . . " Zeo lowered his gaze and grabbed her hands, disengaging them from his face. "I need you to be safe too."


    "The old lady said I should stay away from you too."


    "Why are you here then?"


    "Why wouldn''t I?" She glared at him. "Do you think I have anything left in this awful place? I''ll be seventeen soon! Once that happens, I''ll be kicked out of here. You know how things work, don''t you?"


    Zeo bit his lower lip and nodded. When orphans turned seventeen, they were given a six-month trial to be adopted. Otherwise, they were emancipated and banished from the orphanage with a three-month minimum salary to survive. Since survival chances were scarce in the real world, most orphans went down the wrong path. Only a few would reach adulthood, and those who survived would go through hell.


    "I got no family nor a chance to be adopted anymore. How do you think I''ll survive out there?" She laughed sarcastically, and her eyes revealed anger and frustration.


    Zeo just stared at her, unable to find the right words.


    "I got nothing to lose, and I don''t expect my life to be long either." She forced a smile and squeezed his hands. "I like you, Zeo, and I just wanted to let you know that."


    Zeo widened his eyes and hesitated, trying to say something but couldn''t. He froze with his eyes locked on hers while his heart raced in his chest.


    "Your face is red," Gina said, holding back her laughter.


    "What? Is it?" Zeo looked away, scowled, and released her hands.


    "You''ve not changed that much, after all." She giggled.


    "I''m not used to these things." Zeo pursed his lips and folded his arms, looking toward the sky.


    "Don''t worry. I don''t expect anything from you, anyway." Gina shrugged and stood next to him, staring at the stars. "After all, your girlfriend is waiting for you out there."


    "Who?" He gave her a sidelong glance.


    "Duh!" She rolled her eyes. "Remnya, who else?"


    "We''re just friends."


    "Yeah, right. You were always after her back then. The two of you, always together." There was a hint of anger in her voice. "You looked at her with admiration while you looked at me with fear and disgust." Her hands trembled as she clenched her fists. "I don''t blame you for it, though. I am too dumb to approach a boy without scaring him away."


    "You''re wrong." Zeo raised his voice and turned to her. "Remnya and I will always be close, but . . . " He hesitated for a moment, wondering if speaking further was wise. Nonetheless, his mouth didn''t wait for his conclusion. "Remnya and I have chosen different paths. I love her, yeah. She''s my best friend." He sighed. "But we''ll never be together. Life has separated us definitely."


    Gina stared at him momentarily, and her lips hesitated to speak. "What does that mean, Zeo?" She frowned. "Don''t lie to me!"


    "I am not lying." Zeo scowled and leaned closer. "I don''t even know if I''ll be alive tomorrow. A war is coming, and I am willing to die protecting Amy." He grabbed her hands tightly and stared at her surprised face fearlessly. "However, If I survive. If I manage to save my friend and earn my freedom." He gulped. "I''ll come back for you."


    Gina froze and blinked in shock while a gentle breeze caressed her hair.


    "Zeo . . . " Gina smiled, her teeth sparkling under the stars. "Is that a promise?"


    "Yes." Zeo nodded while his brain called him a fool over and over. But he didn''t care about it anymore. He was tired of running away. "I promise that if I survive, I''ll return for you."


    Gina darted at him and wrapped her arms around his torso, squeezing him tightly. Zeo''s face turned red as he felt her warm body rubbing against his. The heat seemed to burn his skin, and her perfume filled his nose as his heartbeats resounded in his brain.


    "I will wait for you," Gina whispered in his ear, her voice cracking, and tears soaked his shoulder. At that moment, he realized how much those silly words meant to her.


    Zeo hugged her back and allowed himself to relish her warmth and forget the chaos for an ephemeral moment, a moment that seemed to heal part of his soul.


    They remained together for a long minute and then stared at each other. Gina blushed and wiped her tears with the back of her hand, and Zeo stared at her, knowing he had to survive. Not only for Amy and Rem. For Gina too.


    . . .


    "What''s going on with you two now?" Amy said from the hallway, holding two huge bags in each hand.


    "Nothing. NOTHING." Zeo rushed to grab her bags and smiled awkwardly. "We were just talking."


    Amy raised one eyebrow and gave him a suspicious glance. "Talking about what?"


    "About what we''ll do when he returns," Gina interrupted, smiling and patting Amy''s head like a dog. "You lil shit do not need to worry about that."


    "Shut up!" Amy slapped her hand away. "I don''t know what you two are plotting, but I''ll find out soon!"


    Zeo stifled a chuckle but quickly realized the peace was over. It was time to face reality. He narrowed his eyes and spoke firmly. "Okay. It''s time to go, Amy."


    Amy bobbed her head and turned to Gina, who opened her arms, trying to hug her. "I''ll see you later, clown face," Amy said, sticking out her tongue at her before bolting toward the backdoor.


    Gina''s jaw dropped. "That rude brat!" she shouted, slamming her feet on the floor. "That''s it! I won''t even have to miss that little demon now!"


    Zeo shook his head and walked up to Gina. "I''ll lecture her about that."


    "It''s okay. I''m used to it." Gina smiled and stood in front of him. "Well, I guess it''s time to say goodbye again."


    He nodded. "Please, stay safe."


    "You too." She leaned closer and spoke softly, "I know I only got to see you for one day, but . . . it was great. I''m really going to miss you."


    Zeo leaned closer too. "I''m confident everything will be over soon."


    "I''ll plan a lot of things to do together when you come back . . . " Gina wrapped her arms around him tightly as if refusing to let him go. "I''ll see you soon, Zeo," she whispered, suddenly kissing his cheek.


    Zeo froze and could only breathe in her perfume. "I''ll see you soon, Gina," he murmured as she released him, turned away to hide her tears, and ran away.


    *¡ã*¡ã*

 73: Decision

    Zeo


    The intense light of a lamppost cast a reflective sheen on the car''s exterior as Zeo organized Amy''s belongings within the trunk. At his side, his friend stared intently at the red sedan, her eyes wide like two green emeralds. In the background, the symphony of crickets serenaded from nearby bushes while a gentle breeze dragged papers and dust over the asphalt.


    Amy tapped on the rear window where Stella rested. "Who is this?" Amy asked, scowling at her. "Your girlfriend?"


    "Of course not." Zeo slammed the trunk shut and opened the passenger door. "Let''s go."


    Amy looked at him suspiciously. "Weird!" she said before hopping inside.


    Zeo shook his head, closed the door, and stared at Manzur, who sat on a motorcycle across the street. Several presences hid in the shadows, guarding the place. Unfortunately, none of them was allowed to help their lieutenant Ozura.


    Manzur waved at one of his men to come and gave him instructions while the rest dispersed into the town. Zeo sat behind the steering wheel and took a deep breath, bracing for what lay ahead.


    Amy was poking Stella''s cheeks and nose. "Is she dead?"


    "No." He grabbed her wrist. "And please, don''t do that. She''s hurt, so we''ll be taking care of her. Okay?"


    She nodded and looked out of the window.


    Manzur gestured at Zeo, letting him know it was safe to move, and drove away in his motorcycle.


    Zeo started the vehicle and thought momentarily, analyzing their route and eventual challenges. Manzur had already given him instructions to find Ozura''s hideout. However, he still had to decide where to go from there.


    "When we''ll go to see Rem?" Amy asked.


    "Soon." He reached out for her head to brush her hair. "Meanwhile, be patient, okay?"


    "Yes, sir!" She gave him a military salute, making him stifle a chuckle.


    Gripping the steering wheel, Zeo adjusted the rearview mirror and stepped on the gas pedal, marking the start of a long journey. He rolled down the windows, allowing Amy to stick her head out of the car to look at the orphanage for the last time. She waved at the old building while Zeo glanced at her, surprised by her mature reaction.


    As they took the main road, the street lights slowly disappeared until deep darkness consumed the car. Staring at the white lines on the asphalt, Zeo wondered why Ozura had abandoned her daughter in such a place. Yet he chose not to judge her decision, knowing she had saved both of them from The Hunters.


    Boredom took over Amy, and she began touching buttons and asking Zeo about their functions. He answered all her questions, and time seemed to move faster.


    There was a short silence.


    BOOM!


    A flash turned the night into day, blinding him momentarily.


    A giant fireball rose from the west, shooting glowing debris-like projectiles into the town. Zeo grabbed the steering wheel with his vectors and hugged Amy, shielding her with his body and covering her ears.


    The shockwave reached the car one second later, shaking it violently and shattering the windows.


    Amy screamed while glass splinters hit Zeo''s body. He stopped the car and held his friend tightly for a moment that seemed to last forever.


    The explosion echoed across the land like an endless roar, lingering around them for several seconds, and immense flames erupted like a volcano on the horizon.


    "Are you okay?" Zeo asked, inspecting her face and body for injuries.


    She nodded, trembling while she gripped his body.


    "Good." He caressed her face and looked into her eyes. "There''s a fight going on, but don''t worry. We''re safe here."


    "Is this a war?" she asked, her dilated pupils reflecting the inferno in the distance.


    "No." Zeo swallowed, trying to convince himself too. "Someone is fighting The Hunters, but I''m sure they will win."


    Amy dragged herself closer and cuddled her body tightly against his. "I don''t like it."


    "It''ll be okay. Trust me." He allowed her to sit on his lap, ensuring to remove all glass debris from him and the seats. He held Amy tightly with his right arm and accelerated again.


    When the heat of the explosion reached his skin, Zeo thought of Ozura and hoped she was still alive.


    The journey continued, and Zeo distracted Amy with questions and different stories until she fell asleep on his chest. The fireball vanished in the distance, yet a hellish glow persisted on the horizon.


    They advanced through a dirt road for several kilometers and reached a small cabin in the middle of endless walnut fields.


    Zeo left Amy sleeping in the driver''s seat and stepped out to inspect the place. It was a small cabin with an iron door and walls with multiple layers of steel painted like wood. Manzur waited by the entrance while Zeo used his vectors to scan every corner in search of threats. "Where''s Kristina?" he asked.


    The old man beckoned for someone to come, and a girl walked out


    fearfully. Kristina. She stood before Zeo, avoiding eye contact and hiding her hands behind her back. "I''m sorry I''ve failed my mission," she confessed, ashamed.


    "That doesn''t matter. Are you okay?" Zeo noticed a bruise on her forehead.


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    She nodded. "They could''ve killed me, yet they treated me like an equal."


    Zeo tightened his lips, realizing that having been mere slaves all their lives, they didn''t know any better. "Good." Zeo cracked his knuckles. "We should keep moving then."


    "Why don''t you spend the night here?" Manzur interrupted.


    "There''s no time for that." Zeo didn''t even look at him and opened the back door to move Stella and make room for Kristina. She looked at Zeo nervously and thanked Manzur for his help before rushing to the car.


    "You don''t even know where you''re going." Manzur narrowed his eyes.


    "I''ll figure it out." Zeo picked up Amy carefully and held her in his arms.


    "We got food and beds inside. You might not need it, but the girls with you need to recover." He folded his arms and stared at Amy. "Especially the little one. She needs time to assimilate the sudden changes in her life. And do you even have enough fuel?"


    Zeo hissed, realizing the truth of his words, and looked at Amy''s sleeping face. He hadn''t decided his next move yet, didn''t know the road ahead, and ignored whether the car would last the whole journey.


    "If you stay, I promise I won''t become a nuisance to you. I''ll remain outside, patrolling this place for your safety and hers." Manzur locked his gray eyes on Amy, the daughter of his lieutenant.


    "If Ozura loses . . . Will this place still be safe?"


    "Our only mission here is to keep her child safe, young man." He tilted his head. "If this place weren''t safe, I would never ask you to stay."


    Zeo clenched his fists and took a deep breath. "Alright." He glanced at Amy. "Only because of her."


    Manzur nodded with relief and turned toward the house, beckoning for them to follow him.


    The hideout was small and cozy, with its interior finely painted in apple green. There was a table with four chairs, a fridge, an oven, and two small rooms. Zeo placed Amy on the softest bed he found while Kristina left Stella in a different room. He observed the cramped place and frowned. It smelled of dampness and dust and barely fitted two beds. The walls were light blue, and wood filled with cobwebs completed the ceiling.


    He covered Amy with a bedsheet and walked into the dining room, seeing Manzur had placed food and drinks on the table.


    "What do you know about Ozura?" Zeo asked, clasping his hands.


    "Alive for now."


    Zeo widened his eyes. "Are you sure?"


    "Underestimating The Chaos Wind is many men''s greatest mistake." He sipped from a tea cup with the childish design of bears.


    "You think she''ll return?"


    "She never promised me to return."


    "Why aren''t you fighting alongside her?"


    Manzur finished his beverage before answering. "I would if that was my mission." He placed his cup on the table and locked his eyes on Zeo. "But my lady''s orders were clear: to protect her child with my life."


    Zeo gave Amy''s room a sidelong glance, ensuring she was asleep, and then leaned closer to whisper. "Why did she abandon her own daughter?"


    A tense silence filled the room. Manzur processed his question for a moment, his lips hesitating. "She didn''t choose to have her," he confessed.


    "What about her father?"


    Manzur furrowed his eyebrows, and Zeo felt a sudden rush of anger emanating from that man. "If that bastard is still alive, he must be walking among the files of The Hunters."


    Zeo swallowed and remained pensive with his eyes on the colorful tablecloth. "So Amy is . . . "


    "A child of rape." Fury flashed in his eyes.


    Zeo buried his nails into his skin and cursed The Hunters once again. "Thanks for telling me."


    "You''re welcome, young man." Manzur returned an empty look and turned toward the door. "Please, enjoy your food." He walked outside and closed the door behind him, leaving a heavy aura to linger in the room.


    Zeo grabbed a piece of sweet bread from a plate and took a bite, wondering how much pain Ozura had endured before making such a drastic decision. Blaming her for abandoning her child didn''t feel right. Nonetheless, Amy deserved to know her mother was still alive. But how much time did Ozura have left?


    As he satiated his hunger, dozens of questions invaded his mind like a storm of uncertainty.


    The Hunters would find him sooner or later, he knew. He was a deserter and had aided others to do the same. Was Amy safe with someone like him? Was he selfish for wanting to be with his friend?


    Answers were blurry, but when Zeo finished the food, his heart reached a conclusion. He rose from his seat and glanced over Amy''s room with nostalgia, knowing that his next step would change the fate of his dear friend and himself forever.


    *¡ã*¡ã*


    Outside, Zeo unpacked Amy''s belongings from the car, his heart kicking in his chest while he analyzed the future consequences of his actions. Be it by pride or honor, Zeo couldn''t abandon the woman who had saved Amy''s life. Besides, he still had a mission; running away and living like a fugitive wasn''t the life he wanted.


    Manzur leaned on a tree, observing him. "Why do I tell her when she wakes up?"


    "That''s up to you," Zeo replied, placing her bags in Manzur''s hands. "I know Amy won''t forgive me for this anyway. I''ve abandoned her twice." The thought of her reaction¡ªwhen she found out he was gone again¡ª stung the depths of his soul. He only hoped Amy would understand him when she grew up.


    "I''ll protect her with my life." Manzur handed Zeo a metal box with a Karx''s emblem shining in gold. "I gave my lady my word, and I''m giving it to you too."


    He took the box between his hands, feeling its heavy weight, and quickly understood what it contained inside. "Thank you."


    Zeo left the box on the passenger seat and glimpsed someone storming out the door. It was Stella. She looked exhausted and dizzy as she stumbled, her reddened eyes locked on him.


    "I was wondering when you''d stop eavesdropping and come out," he told her, closing the car door.


    "What''s this madness you were saying?" Stella stopped in front of him and shook her head. "This is a mistake!"


    "My whole life is a mistake." Zeo shrugged, checking the tires with the tip of his boot.


    "Zeo." She grabbed his arm to get his attention. "You saved my life. I thought it was a dream, but I heard your voice in the darkness. You protected me despite all the stupid things I did and said."


    "Don''t even mention it." Zeo stared at her, waiting for that request he would never fulfill.


    Stella gritted her teeth, her face filling with frustration. "What''s the point of everything you did if you''re just gonna return there and throw it away by dying at their hands? What about your friend?"


    "I''m doing what I must, and Amy will be fine. Her mother made sure of that."


    "I won''t let you go!" She raised her voice, and her pupils dilated as the veins of her forehead bulged. "I owe you my life. There''s no way I''ll let you do this!"


    As Stella tried to attack him, Zeo summoned his vectors, grabbed her arms and legs, and pinned her against the ground. She contorted her body and cursed at him, trying to break free.


    "Stella," he murmured. Guilt hurt his insides, but he was proud of her. "Thank you." He gave her a saddened smile.


    She stopped fighting and froze with her eyes locked on him. A tear rolled down her cheek. "Why is it that every time I care about someone, they turn out to be such assholes?"


    Zeo released her and stretched his hand at her. "Dying isn''t part of my plans. I''ll have to ask you to trust me one more time."


    Stella wiped her tears and grabbed his hand tightly, standing up. "At least, let me go with you."


    "No." He bore his eyes on hers. "You still got a place to return. They''ve waited for you long enough. Don''t make them wait any longer, okay?"


    Anger and frustration transformed her face, and tears flowed mercilessly. "I understand," she murmured, turning her back to him and began to walk away.


    Zeo observed her disappear into the house and close the door. That was his own fight, and Stella had suffered enough. He took a deep breath, adjusted his cursed Hunter uniform, and looked at Manzur. "Rexton, right?"


    He nodded. "It''s the safest place for my lady''s daughter right now."


    "Any words for Ozura? Assuming she''s still alive."


    "No." He twisted his lips into a half smile. "She already knows what I feel for her."


    Zeo stared at him for a moment and bobbed his head. He hopped in the car and grabbed the box that the man had given him. As it opened, three syringes glimmered with a cobalt glow. Zeo remembered Ronner''s words that night: Liquid Cells of Tritium, also known as LCT, a dangerous chemical that boosted strength in exchange for destroying vital organs.


    "When this is over, I''ll meet you at Nebran then," Zeo told him confidently, grabbing one syringe in his hand.


    Manzur bowed to him respectfully, recognizing him as his equal. "May the fortune shine upon you, young man."


    Zeo bobbed his head, started the car, and pierced his veins with the thick titanium needle of LCT.


    *¡ã*¡ã*

 74: Mother

    Zeo


    Sirens pierced the night as ambulances and police cars flooded the streets of Fallen Star. Prey of panic, people ignored the authorities and tried to abandon the town in their vehicles. Zeo stood beside his car on the roadside, witnessing how a colossal column of black smoke and fire rose where the Azul Factory used to be. Everything else was in ruins, where molten metal and concrete sprawled across kilometers of devastation.


    Zeo clenched his fists and ran toward the chaos, the heat in the air intensifying with every step. A group of firefighters tried to warn him not to go beyond the safe zone marked with red lights, but he ignored them.


    On the horizon, an intense orange glow blinded Zeo, and a massive crater emerged before him like the very gates of hell.


    As he contemplated the endless chaos, loud thuds shook the ground, echoing in his chest.


    When a violent gush of wind battered his face, Zeo realized the fight was far from over. He moved closer to have a clearer view and discerned Ozura facing someone. He could barely follow their movements but recognized The Hunters'' Uniform in her adversary.


    An explosion flashed across the clouds, and a smoking body fell rapidly from the skies.


    Ozura crashed onto the ground, sending rocks and debris flying everywhere. Zeo jumped over the ruins and reached her side. The lady lay half-buried in stones, her clothes destroyed and blood covering her face and chest. Her left arm was gone, and so was one of her horns.


    "What are you doing here?" Ozura murmured weakly, opening her blood-filled eyes.


    "Sorry, but I won''t let you die alone here," Zeo told her and turned to face his new enemy.


    An eerie man hovered in the sky, looming over them like the angel of death. His ripped coat waved wildly against the scorching wind, and scars covered his exposed muscular chest. "Are you Marakudra''s wonder boy?" he asked, his deep black eyes glowing like onyx. "What has brought you to this place?"


    "I came to face my destiny." Zeo glared at him.


    "Don''t be stupid . . . " Ozura said, holding his arm to draw herself up. "This is futile. You should''ve gone with Manzur." She staggered over the loose rocks, but Zeo held her firmly.


    "Maybe so, but your daughter is waiting for you."


    Ozura widened her eyes and hesitated before speaking. "Nonsense." She gritted her fangs. "I''m no mother. I deserve no child."


    "You''re wrong." Zeo raised his voice, scowling. "Despite everything, you''re here willing to give your life to protect your daughter. That''s what a true mother does."


    Ozura lowered her gaze. "Is she okay?"


    "Yes. When I left, Amy was sleeping with a smile."


    "I see." She took a deep breath. "As long as my girl is safe, I don''t care about anything else."


    "She will be." Zeo''s vectors buzzed like millions of bees around their bodies. "She''s a warrior like you, after all."


    The lady wiped the blood from her lips with her backhand. "Though, you should''ve never come." She locked her fiery eyes on the enemy, who descended from the skies and landed before them. "That man is Zagado Rain, a Vetzlayer. He can manipulate every known elemental and use telekinetic powers. There''s very little we can do to stop him."


    "Is that so?" Zeo turned to face him, scanning him from head to toe, and shrugged. "Well, I guess this will be my last battle then."


    "Stop it!" she shouted, gripping his arm. "Amy needs you, and so does Remnya!"


    Zeo gave her a sidelong glance and smiled while his veins bulged, the chemicals sending a rush of adrenaline and insane power throughout his body. "Amy needs her mother more than she needs me."


    "What are you saying? Did you¡ª" Ozura''s jaw dropped when she realized Zeo had used the LCT shots. She tried to hold him down, but the ground exploded around her as all his power erupted from his body, forming a green, electric aura. "Don''t do this!"


    Her words faded behind Zeo as he strode toward his life''s biggest challenge. Zagado smirked and locked his heavy eyes on him. Unlike anything he had faced before, that man emitted an eerily calm energy, almost as if his intentions weren''t despicable. The Hunters had mentioned his name before, and Edo had always expressed his admiration for him.


    "Azlanin Zeo," Zagado said, brushing two strands of jet-black hair off his face. "What''s your mission here?"


    "My only mission is to protect her." He scowled, his vectors hissing as they touched the ground.


    "Why?"


    "Because she''s an honorable warrior and doesn''t deserve to die here."


    "No." Zagado chuckled. "You have another reason to be here. There''s something you''re trying to hide."


    Zeo thought for a moment. If the rumors spoke truly, perhaps there was a chance to talk to that man and make a deal. "What if I asked you to spare her life and let her go?"


    "I''d tell you that''s impossible." The Hunter closed his eyes.


    "Why?"


    "She did not only interfere with our mission here but also killed many of our soldiers. Besides, she is Debrin Kavram''s loyal Lieutenant."


    "What if I turn myself in and swear loyalty to you?"


    Zagado smiled and folded his arms. "What makes you think you have a choice, young Zeo?"


    "I do." Zeo took a fighting stance. "You won''t take me alive. I can assure you that."


    "I have to respect your courage." The Hunter opened his arms, and the earth began to tremble. Rocks and debris ascended around him while the quake intensified. "However, I''m afraid your delusional journey ends here."


    "We''ll see about that." A green aura covered Zeo and his vectors, electric arcs forming around him as his energy increased. His muscles swelled with immense power, and his eyes glowed, feeling the LCT reaching its peak.


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    Zeo charged at Zagado, his vectors unleashing a furious onslaught. The Hunter responded with a magnetic field, absorbing each impact and sending shocks through Zeo''s muscles. Yet he resisted and intensified his assault.


    His vectors darted and swayed like furious snakes, striving to sink their fangs into Zagado. The Hunter parried and dodged every move until one vector scratched his skin, causing his smug face to change to amusement. Undisturbed, he seized the spectral arm, sending intense pressure throughout Zeo''s body.


    Clenching his hand, Zagado crushed his vector, causing it to explode into a spectacle of green lightning and sparks. An intense electric shock paralyzed Zeo and sent him to the ground.


    He quickly recovered but realized his vector felt numb and unresponsive when he tried to summon it again.


    "Vectors are energy," Zagado''s cold voice whispered in his ear. Zeo recoiled in surprise and saw him standing inches away from him with a big smile. "All I did was block your Anlas receptors."


    Zeo tried to punch him, but The Hunter disappeared like a ghost before his eyes.


    "I can kill you anytime I want, Zeo."


    The voice murmured behind him. Zeo turned desperately, but there was nothing there. Yet, he felt his heavy presence in his head.


    "But will I?"


    Zeo''s fingers dug into his flesh as his remaining vector launched desperate strikes against that monster in an attempt to survive.


    "So . . . " Zagado emerged before Zeo and grabbed him by the chin tightly, forcing him to look him in the eyes, his pupils resembling poison and darkness. "Do you still think you can save her?"


    Before Zeo could answer, a large energy beam exploded on his enemy, propelling him toward the blazing crater. Zeo regained his balance and beheld Ozura standing with her lone arm outstretched, trembling, and wreathed in smoke. She panted and bled, yet the fearless look in her eyes conveyed that surrender was far from her thoughts.


    Ozura fell to her knees, and Zeo ran to her. "You can''t win this fight," she said, coughing blood. "Leave while you still can."


    Even though her words held truth, Zeo had promised to fight until the end. "He won''t kill me," he assured her. "I''m still useful to them. We need to use that to our advantage."


    Ozura remained silent with her gaze fixed on the ground.


    "Hey!" He put his hand on her shoulder. "We can do this, trust me!"


    She chuckled bitterly and murmured with trembling lips. "You know what hurts the most?"


    "Uh?" Zeo tilted his head, taken aback.


    "It''s not the wounds in my body."


    "Ozura . . . "


    "It''s knowing that I never hugged my own child." A crimson tear rolled down her eye.


    Silence.


    "You can still do it. There''s still time!" Zeo shouted, leaning closer to get her attention. "We''ll survive, and I''ll take you to where Amy is!"


    "Zeo." She held his hand tightly. "Spare my little girl the pain of losing her mother again." Her blood stained the ground beneath Zeo''s boots. "Don''t tell her anything about me. She''ll be happier believing her mother never existed."


    "How can you ask me that? Amy deserves to know her mother was willing to give her life to protect her! She didn''t abandon her!"


    "No." She shook her head. "I''m begging you. Don''t tell her, please." She buried her teary amethyst pupils into his gaze. "Promise me, you''ll never tell her."


    Zeo''s heart sunk to the bottom of his stomach, finally understanding the true meaning of her words.


    Overwhelmed by frustration and anger, he nodded. "I promise."


    "Thank you," Ozura said, and a purple aura emanated from her body. She released him and stood firmly on her own while plasma wrapped around her remaining arm. "I have enough energy for one more attack before my body collapses. Do you think you could buy me ten seconds?"


    Zeo''s throat closed when he witnessed Zagado emerging from the crater unscathed and grinning. He took a deep breath and bobbed his head. "I can. I''ll distract him for as long as possible."


    Pride and hope illuminated Ozura''s face as she stared at Zeo. "You''re just like Rem described you." She smiled.


    "I''m probably worse," Zeo admitted, smiling back at her, and stood to face Zagado one more time.


    The Hunter extended his hand, a taunting invitation for him to attack.


    Zeo concentrated all his energy into his remaining vector until it glowed in an intense green light, becoming visible to the naked eye. He charged at his enemy, swinging his lone vector like a lethal weapon of emerald flames.


    Zagado dodged each attack, but Zeo channeled his Air skills into his arms, forming a vortex of razor-sharp wind capable of slicing through steel. He launched it at the Hunter, who leaped aside to evade it. At that moment, Zeo seized an opening. He hurled himself at his adversary and delivered a thunderous punch across the Hunter''s face with all his strength.


    His enemy was briefly stunned, and Zeo saw a chance to grab his neck with his vector. All his energy focused on crushing his bones. Zeo roared, his veins bulging as he released all his power, trying to strangle that monster.


    However, a dark aura emanated from Zagado, who turned to stare at him with a smirk. A shrilling sound in the air made Zeo shiver. It was an elemental he had never seen before.


    "Tenebra," a voice resounded in Zeo''s head, and he realized it was Ozura using her Air skills to connect with his mind. "He can manipulate Dark Elementals."


    Zeo remembered the books in The Hunters'' library. Tenebra: the combination of negatively charged elementals to create more powerful ones, capable of destroying matter at the touch.


    "RUN!"


    A ghostly aura shrouded the sky, and a claw-like specter emerged from the ground. It lunged toward Zeo, who vaulted away to escape its grasp. Nevertheless, it brushed against his forearm, inflicting a gelid pain that seemed to freeze his veins.


    His skin turned pale and purple, and the pain reached his bones, making him grit his teeth not to scream.


    "Good job!" Zagado smirked and winked at him. "I made it easy for you, but the next one will be faster, okay?"


    Zeo widened his eyes, realizing his remaining vector had stopped working and disappeared from The Hunter''s neck, which was unharmed.


    The smell of death filled Zeo''s nostrils, and a large hand loomed over him, covering the sky.


    Unable to dodge, Zeo summoned his magnetic field to protect himself. The Tenebra energy destroyed his shield, but the explosion caused by it sent him flying away toward a pile of rocks. The unyielding surface stopped his body abruptly, making him groan in pain.


    "Again, good job." Zagado smiled and clapped his hands. "Not many can survive that."


    For a brief moment, Zeo felt as defenseless as the weak kid from the orphanage, yet he shook his head, pushing his intrusive thoughts away, and focused on his enemy. He had to survive, no matter what.


    "Since our fight is over, I''ll finish with the Karx''s lady." Zagado turned to Ozura, who had stopped charging energy and dropped to the ground.


    "Wait!" Zeo shouted, standing up with his legs trembling. "I can still fight, you asshole!" Two vortexes formed in his hands, and he threw them at his enemy in a desperate combo.


    The Hunter blocked them with ease and chuckled at his pitiful attempt. "Perhaps it''d be better if I put you to sleep."


    Zeo didn''t wait for his attack and charged at him, driven by all his fury and honor. He tried to hit The Hunter with punches and kicks that landed nowhere.


    A single punch to the stomach emptied Zeo''s lungs, sending him to the ground on his knees. Zagado followed up with a kick to the jaw, burying his head into a concrete wall with such force the whole world spun around him.


    The wall collapsed, and Zeo fell before his enemy''s feet.


    Refusing to give up, he grabbed his ankle, feeling the leather and steel of his cold boots.


    Another kick to the face sent him rolling across the ruins until a totaled car stopped him.


    The pain seemed to disappear as his body began to shut down.


    Zagado began to walk away, but Zeo crawled behind him. "Wait . . . " he muttered. "I''ve not given up yet!"


    The Hunter ignored him and focused his eyes on Ozura. "I let him live, just as you requested," he said as he marched toward her.


    "What does that mean?" Zeo roared and tried to stop him with his vectors, but they never responded. Not even his wind worked anymore. Zagado''s Tenebra skills had consumed all his energy quickly, and his body withered like a dying rose. "DAMMIT!"


    The sky darkened, and the furious fires ceased, giving way to an eerie silence.


    Zagado loomed over Ozura.


    She lifted her fiery gaze at him, fearless, and murmured, "Thank you. The boy has nothing to do with me or Karx. Don''t make him suffer for my mistakes."


    Zagado contemplated her request in silence and then nodded.


    He raised his right arm, and his hand glowed with an underworldly aura.


    Zeo watched, powerless, cursing himself for not being strong enough. Guilt tore his insides, knowing Amy would never meet her mother.


    . . .


    Zagado made it quick, and his impenetrable eyes exuded respect.


    . . .


    When fires ceased, the skies cleared, and another great warrior abandoned the battlefield with all the honor of the world.


    She left, but the indelible mark of her love resonated in Zeo''s soul.


    The love of a mother who gave her life for her child.


    *¡ã*¡ã*

 75: Hollow

    Remnya


    The Netomics in Remnya''s blood caused an anesthetic effect, putting her into a deep sleep. Nightmares stopped, replaced by the void of her mind. Every muscle and bone regenerated while that tragic night faded away.


    As a new day arose on the horizon, warm sun rays caressed Remnya''s skin. She opened her eyes, and for a brief moment, she believed everything had just been a horrible dream. However, the reek of burnt flesh, carbonized vegetation, and ashes covering the ground reminded her of what she had lost.


    Tears threatened her eyes, but Remnya vowed never to let them flow again. It was futile. They would never come back.


    Never.


    Remnya moved her fingers first and then her arms, realizing there was no more pain. She lifted her torso, pushed away the blanket covering her body, and looked at herself. Dried blood and ashes extended over her skin, and her torn clothes barely hid her naked body.


    A Karx uniform lay beside her, so she tore apart the remnants of her clothes and wore the new ones.


    She scanned her surroundings, witnessing the devastation. Nature was gone, replaced by black trunks falling apart, smoke, and a thick mattress of ashes. Nonetheless, the corpses had disappeared.


    Even though the pain was gone, her body felt numb and weak, and her legs trembled like a newborn when she stood up. It took her several attempts to walk, but her bones seemed to have recovered. Yet, deep scars covered her whole body.


    She limped across the place, trying to find signs of life in the desolation where not even birds chirped anymore.


    Eerie silence.


    Remnya sat on the remnants of molten rock and contemplated her solitude, wondering if saving Zeo was doable for a failure like herself.


    The roar of an engine interrupted her thoughts, and she saw an old truck stopping nearby, blood and ashes imprinted on its tires.


    Debrin craned his neck out the driver''s window and shouted, "How are you feeling?"


    "I''m fine," she said and coughed, feeling her throat as dry as sandpaper.


    "Do you want to return to the camp?"


    His question sent shivers down her spine.


    Remnya lowered her gaze, clenched her fists, and pondered her choices. Seeing the place where Brisa had been happy for the last time would tear her soul apart. However, if she didn''t face reality, she would never get over her pathetic self. The scared, weak child who failed had to die once and for all.


    "I''ll come," she said firmly and stood up.


    Debrin nodded and drove next to her. She hopped in the truck and slammed the door shut.


    The truck roared as its tires spun on the slippery terrain, leaving a gray cloud of ashes behind them. Remnya stretched her arm out the open window, trying to feel the morning breeze, but the atmosphere had changed. Unlike the usual fresh aroma of the forest, a burnt wood smell lingered everywhere, mixed with a faint reek of rotten flesh.


    Charred trunks erected crookedly across kilometers of craters and desolation, along with the crushed metal skeletons of the trucks that never made it. Remnya wondered how Debrin removed hundreds of corpses in a single night.


    A familiar fa?ade emerged on the horizon like a distant memory.


    The camp.


    What had once been vigorous fields of citrus trees and vegetables had become a graveyard. The house had collapsed, and all their belongings lay buried under tons of rubble.


    They stopped where the entrance used to be, and Remnya walked out of the truck to contemplate the scene. Not even the beautiful mountains in the distance could placate the dread before her eyes. The last memories of Brisa had vanished along with that structure of concrete and steel.


    The last place where her sister had smiled was no more.


    Debrin inspected the ruins of his home. His face showed no emotions, yet his aura was different, as if deprived of all its energy. How many times had he lost everything?


    "You might want to take a look here," Debrin said, shoving his hand into the rubble.


    Remnya swallowed. "What''s the point?"


    "Some of your sister''s belongings are still here."


    His words hit Remnya like an iron fist, threatening to break her apart. Nevertheless, her mind held the pieces of her heart together. Clenching her fists, she strode in his direction and kneeled before the ruins.


    Although most lay destroyed, Remnya recognized Brisa''s clothes and other belongings covered by dust and ashes. She stared at it for long seconds, feeling thousands of needles buried in her skin, and took a deep breath. "There''s nothing left here." She rose suddenly.


    "There''s something you should know," Debrin started, picking up something from the ground. "Before your sister arrived here, we researched her background and noticed something odd. She had a millionaire sum of money in her bank account. At first, it didn''t make sense, but now I understand Ronner was behind it."


    "I see." Her voice was lifeless.


    "What I''m trying to tell you is that her money is untouched. We kept it safe because Brisa was saving it for you."


    Remnya assimilated his words and then spoke with frustration. "You can keep it. I don''t care about money."


    "I know, but it could be useful in the future, don''t you think?" Debrin stood before her and placed something in her hand.


    She looked at her hand to see a small black metal card with a gold emblem. "What''s this?"


    "A bank ID. You can use it to validate your identity if you ever need that money."


    This text was taken from Royal Road. Help the author by reading the original version there.


    Remnya tightened her fist, wondering if that money could ever make someone else happy. Maybe Zeo or Amy, she thought, and instead of throwing it away, she shoved it in her pocket.


    "Now, there''s one more thing to do here." Debrin jumped over the rubble and headed toward a mountain of molten rock. Remnya widened her eyes when she felt a foreign presence nearby and rushed after him.


    The sight froze her blood.


    Restrained by solid metal straps buried in the ground, a young man shifted miserably while his eyes shot terrified glances. He was naked, sitting on a puddle of blood that leaked from his amputated legs. Debrin stood before him, and the guy recoiled in fear as he removed the gag from his mouth.


    "Who is this?" Remnya asked, glaring at the prisoner.


    "The only Hunter I allowed to live," Debrin replied. "He was with the group that attacked Ada''s vehicle. The one where your sister traveled."


    "Please, don''t kill me!" he screamed when Remnya''s expression changed from surprise to hatred.


    The blood in her veins boiled as she approached the young man, emanating a deadly aura. "Give me a single reason I shouldn''t burn you alive."


    "I''ll tell you everything you wanna know! Please!"


    "Start speaking now." Remnya gritted her teeth while her eyes began to glow. Debrin observed her with no apparent intention of intervening.


    "I didn''t have a choice! We were forced to be here! They were gonna kill us if we refused!" He spurted every word as fast as possible.


    "I don''t give a shit why you were here. I need information!" Remnya squatted in front of him and leaned closer to his face. "Who is the fucking demon who killed my sister?"


    "I-I . . . " he stammered and shook his head. "I don''t know who your sister is . . . I''m sorry!"


    Remnya snatched his neck as fury began taking over her body, her arm trembling. "A human girl." She took a deep breath, trying not to crush his trachea. "Black hair, golden eyes." She gritted her teeth while her eyes burned. "She was pregnant . . . "


    "Oh! I remember someone like that!" he rushed to say, and Remnya waited. "When our commander seized the last group of Karx, a big Nephilim woman begged him to spare the human among them. I believe the human was pregnant, too." He shook his head desperately. "But I had nothing to do with it! I swear!"


    "Who is your commander?" Remnya slammed the back of his head against the rocks and raised her voice. "Tell me his name now!"


    The young man trembled as his pupils dilated. "The great Executioner . . . Vir-Virgil . . . "


    "Virgil?" Remnya buried her fingers in his neck.


    "Virgil Alzer?" Debrin interrupted and stepped forward. "Why was a high-class soldier like himself here?"


    "Orders from the Great Zagado Rain," he mumbled, struggling to breathe. "They wanted to secure this place without letting their guard down like before."


    "So they feared Merle would play them once again." Debrin stifled an empty chuckle, kneeled beside Remnya, and grabbed her arm, easing the pressure on the boy''s throat. "Is there any other question you need to ask?"


    Remnya released his neck and lowered her gaze, assimilating his revelations. "Do you?" she whispered.


    "No." Debrin patted her shoulder and stood up. He turned his back to them, letting Remnya know that the boy''s life now belonged to her.


    A bird chirped atop a carbonized branch with its feathers covered in sooth. Despite everything it had lost, it sang for a new morning. Remnya listened to its words and lifted her eyes toward the sky. "Why . . . " A flame formed in her hand, making the boy cringe in terror. "Why did you kill them all?"


    "Please . . . " he tried to say, but Remnya shoved the flame in his face, stopping inches away from his skin. He trembled and peed himself while his terrified eyes pleaded for mercy.


    "Answer my question." The heat intensified in her hand.


    Tears rolled down his eyes as he murmured his last words. "The Lord said Make Debrin Kavram feel the same I felt."


    Silence.


    Remnya slammed her hand on the boy''s face. He screamed in terror and jerked his body desperately, but her flame vanished into smoke before burning his skin.


    The time stopped, and Remnya understood her woeful journey for vengeance, a journey where nobody would ever win. Only misery awaited her.


    Yet it was her impending fate.


    She stood up and stared at the bird singing for its fallen companions. So beautiful, yet so sorrowful. A reflection of her own self.


    Deprived of hope, she began to walk away.


    No matter how much blood she spilled. No matter how many bodies she burned. Nothing in the world would fill the void in her heart again.


    *¡ã*¡ã*


    Black smoke covered the sky as Remnya and Debrin incinerated the remnants of the camp, erasing every trace of what had once been a place full of life. Memories and dreams turned into ashes and merged with nature to bury a bitter chapter of their journeys.


    The flames danced in Remnya''s pupils as she stared vacantly into an uncertain future. A numb sensation lingered in her chest, devoid of emotion, as if the night had consumed all the fuel feeding her fire. There was nothing.


    Nothing.


    When the last flame vanished, Remnya returned to the truck, folded her arms, and rested her back on the cold metal. Behind her, their prisoner lay on the truck bed, blindfolded and unconscious, ready to be delivered to the closest hospital.


    Debrin opened the truck''s hood to check the engine and add oil and coolant.


    "What did you do with the bodies?" Remnya asked, observing her surroundings.


    He turned to her, his eyes reflecting the sun. "I burned them all."


    Remnya twisted her lips. "So we''re stepping on them right now."


    "They''re part of nature again. Even our enemies will soon be the soil that feeds new life."


    She contemplated the ashes beneath her feet and nodded. "What happens now?"


    "I need to rebuild our army and prepare, accordingly, for the next battle." He grabbed two packages from the truck bed. "While I am here, my leader is still fighting out there."


    "Your leader?" She gave him a sidelong glance. "Aren''t you the leader of Karx?"


    Debrin smiled and shook his head, offering her a lunch box and a juice bottle. "I''m the visible face of Karx and the public enemy number one of The Hunters, but I''m far from the title of leader. I believe we both can agree on that."


    "Your leader failed, too." She scowled. "He allowed his people to die like this."


    "You''re not wrong for thinking that." Debrin placed the food on the ground next to her feet. "However, he is fighting a greater war, and his armies have occupied several countries across the world. The Hunters refuse to acknowledge it, but they''re losing territories in other continents." He put her heavy hand on her shoulder. "I understand your discontent, but he has helped us more than you might think. He''s the only reason Azmon hasn''t declared a full-scale war on us. He''s the reason a pure Nephilim like you didn''t end up in the hands of The Hunters as a newborn."


    Remnya stared at him intently, processing his words. She picked up the food from the ground and spoke. "What''s his name?"


    "Mephisto."


    "Is he stronger than you?"


    Debrin shrugged. "It''s hard to tell. He is the brain, I am the muscle."


    She took a deep breath. "Where will you go now?"


    "Rexton."


    "Brisa''s country," she murmured. "Why?"


    "That''s where our remaining armies will reunite to prepare for the last battle. Once our people are ready, the next destination is the Republic of Kolkam, in the continent of Nayrunda." Debrin lifted his gaze toward the sky, and his pupils glowed like two embers. "That''s where Azmon and I will die."


    Remnya widened her eyes, his words resonating with her blood. She wanted to say something, but no word came out of her mouth. Despite her anger, deep in her heart, she refused to accept that fate.


    Debrin seemed to notice the dread in her face and smiled. "After that, peace might finally become a reality for you and your friend."


    Remnya furrowed her eyebrows and lowered her head, locking her gaze on a half-burned shoe beside her foot. "I still have a mission here, but . . . " She gritted her teeth. "Once I destroy the demon who took my sister''s life and free Zeo, I want to join you."


    "Are you sure?"


    She nodded. "I don''t know if I''ll make it out alive from there, but if I do, I want to help end The Hunters too."


    Debrin scrutinized her face, but as soon as Remnya locked her fiery pupils on him, he seemed to understand her resolution. "If that''s what you wish, I''ll be honored to have you fighting by my side." He patted her shoulder.


    Remnya bobbed her head and clenched her fists, knowing there was no turning back. Her only path was a one-way journey to hell, a path that would probably lead to her own destruction. Yet nothing in the world would change what she felt in the depths of her soul.


    Azmon and The Hunters would be burned to death until only ashes remained, and nobody in the world would ever know their names nor that they once existed. Remnya made that her ultimate mission in life, swearing her crimson fire would burn the whole world before she failed again.


    *¡ã*¡ã*

 76: Genesis

    Remnya


    Having left the burnt forest behind, Debrin and Remnya advanced through the main highway in Lacacia, connecting the Republic of Razdef with the Kingdom of Rexton. Debrin explained that Karx had always controlled the neighboring country, and his king welcomed them in exchange for protection. The Hunters'' influence in the Kingdom was limited. However, Azmon held power over a few rebel provinces, which caused instability in the entire country.


    An imposing gorge marked the border between both nations, where massive mountain chains squeezed the road and cast everlasting shadows. Remnya stuck her head out the window to feel the fresh wind of vortexes imprisoned by ancient rock. There was a marked difference between both sides of the road: green and humid to the east and dry with reddish rock to the west.


    On the horizon, a large road sign with intense LED lights read: Welcome to The Kingdom of Rexton, and multiple military vehicles appeared stationed on the roadside with armed soldiers.


    A soldier holding an anti-Nephilim rifle stopped their car and approached the driver''s window with a look of disgust. "IDP, REG ID, and Authorization Letter," he told Debrin, then glanced at Remnya, scanning her from head to toe.


    Debrin''s vectors emerged from his face, glowing orange, and penetrated the man''s head.


    The soldier''s pupils dilated, and a second later, he smiled stupidly at them. "Welcome to the Kingdom," he said and bowed.


    "Thank you," Debrin replied and resumed his driving.


    Remnya stared at him but chose not to ask questions.


    When the gorge ended, endless verdant meadows welcomed them to the other side. They crossed farmlands and small towns, and the road became a rollercoaster of ascents and descents. Remnya noticed people looked different, yet familiar. Their features faintly reminded her of Brisa''s, filling her chest with nostalgia.


    "Where''s Green Valley?" she asked, admiring the windmills along the road.


    "To the west." Debrin pointed to the hills in the distance. "There''s an intersection ahead where you can take the road that leads there."


    "That''s where Brisa was born."


    He turned to her. "Do you wish to go there?"


    Remnya tightened her lips and shook her head. "No. There''s something else I need to do first."


    They crossed the intersection and took a sinuous mountain road. A steep ascent began, and Remnya contemplated Brisa''s birthplace down on the horizon, wondering if she would live long enough to visit that place someday. Nonetheless, the answer didn''t disturb her soul anymore.


    The Kingdom of Nebran was the country''s capital and main metropolis, but their destination was a small village at the feet of a volcano called Extaquia.


    After one hour, they finally stopped before a farmland full of goats and mountain cows. A familiar old man waved at them and opened a wooden gate, allowing them into the property.


    "Welcome, my lord." He bowed.


    Remnya stepped out of the truck and noticed a red sedan parked in front of them. The man walked to her and smiled, wrinkles spreading through his hardened face. "Remnya, I''m so glad to see you alive."


    "Manzur?" Remnya widened her eyes. "How did you survive?"


    "It''s a long story." He gestured with his chin toward the red car nearby. "But on my way, I found someone who will be truly happy to see you."


    "Really?" Remnya turned around to inspect the place. Several cabins faded in the distance along green fields, and multiple people in Karx Uniforms gathered around them.


    "Is she alive?" Debrin asked, opening the truck bed to unload boxes.


    Manzur''s face darkened. He lowered his gaze and shook his head regretfully.


    "I see." Debrin remained undisturbed by his revelation while Remnya''s heart began racing in her chest. "Regardless, you should let Remnya know about the recent events."


    "As you wish, my lord."


    Remnya swallowed and listened to Manzur''s narration of the previous night. She learned about Ozura''s plan to save her daughter, her encounter with Zeo, and The Battle of Fallen Star, where the lady lost her life and Zeo his freedom.


    If you find this story on Amazon, be aware that it has been stolen. Please report the infringement.


    To conclude, Manzur confirmed Debrin''s sayings about Merle, triggering a relentless fury in Remnya''s insides and a deep desire to destroy the man she thought was on her side.


    "I''m really sorry for your loss, Remnya," Manzur added, bowing to her.


    Remnya nodded vacantly while her brain assimilated the tragic final of another friend, a friend she could never save.


    "You must be exhausted." Manzur placed his soft hand on her shoulder. "Why don''t you get some rest? There''s a whole cabin for you alone. You can take a bath and eat there. What do you say?"


    She took a deep breath. "All I need is a place to clean myself. I won''t be here for long."


    "If that''s the case, please follow me." Manzur gestured at her as he walked toward a tiny cabin hidden behind a row of old oaks. Remnya exchanged looks with Debrin and then followed the old man.


    *¡ã*¡ã*


    Remnya stood in the middle of a narrow hall, the air heavy with the scent of aged wood and dampness. The walls bore the marks of time, adorned with ancient war paintings with their colors faded but their stories enduring. In the center, a rustic table and two chairs waited as silent witnesses. In the back, a glimpse into the solitary bedroom revealed a double bed and a small door that led to a modest bathroom.


    Manzur left a pair of clean clothes on a chair and assured Remnya she could stay for as long as she wished.


    As he closed the door behind her, the weight of melancholy dropped on her shoulders, pressing her spirit into the suffocating grip of loneliness. Amid the silence, Remnya assimilated her loss. The shell cracked, and the wounds of her soul bled mercilessly. She dug her fingernails into her flesh and exhaled, the pain erupting from her insides.


    Remnya limped toward the bathroom and locked her gaze on a stained mirror that revealed the fractured fragments of her existence. She glared at her reflection, marred by the fresh wounds of battle. Her face, swollen and bruised, bore the cruel testament of her defeat. Her left eye, half-shut and clouded with blood, displayed the pain she carried within.


    Her trembling hands felt numb as she began undressing, her cold fingers tugging at her clothes clumsily. Her body quivered, revealing skin covered by deep scars, contusions, and dried blood.


    ¡°Is this the price of becoming a monster?¡± Remnya murmured, staring at her naked body with disgust.


    She glanced at the hall and noticed something gleaming with the sunlight that seeped through a circular window on the ceiling. Remnya walked toward it and found a blade sticking out under a pile of boxes. She picked it up and held it before her eyes. It was a tungsten knife with an extremely sharp edge.


    Remnya returned to the bathroom, stood before the mirror, and stared at her reflection along with the weapon. The dark metal seemed to blend with her hair and soul, like an invitation from the depths of hell.


    Her flames engulfed the blade, and even though her heat could melt anything, she focused all her energy on keeping it together to form a lethal fire weapon.


    The knife glowed with crimson light and shot white sparks with such intensity that it illuminated the whole room like the sun itself.


    ¡°I couldn¡¯t save them . . . ¡° Remnya murmured and approached the knife to her head as she gritted her teeth. ¡°I couldn¡¯t.¡±


    Driven by relentless pain and hatred, Remnya snatched her bangs with one hand and thrust the knife with the other, slashing the hair covering her eyes.


    The favorite part of her body fell on the bathroom floor.


    Her blood boiled with frustration, remembering how much Brisa loved brushing her beautiful hair every day. With each knife slash, she let out all her misery and agony, and long black strands of hair accumulated on the tiles surrounding her feet.


    When Remnya finished, her hair reached above her neck, and her hands trembled incessantly. Yet, she wanted to keep going. Beyond her hair, beyond all the pain, beyond her monstrous self.


    Remnya¡¯s mind went blank, and without thinking, she tried to bury the knife into her skin.


    The knife exploded against her neck, and thousands of glowing sparks rained all over her trembling body. Molten metal stuck to the walls, digging holes, and Remnya let out a roar of painful agony. She punched the mirror, her fist penetrating the wall behind it, and cursed her existence once again.


    Remnya breathed heavily while her heart pumped ire and resentment throughout her body. She dropped to the ground, embraced her legs, and buried her head between her knees. Her reddened eyes burned, filled with hot tears, but her fire evaporated them.


    Nonetheless, her heart cried. It cried like it had never cried before.


    The sun vanished, and darkness filled the bathroom, where she remained still with her eyes fixated on the floor. All the events from the past flashed in her brain, punishing her over and over again.


    Remnya spent the night lying on the floor naked in body and soul, fighting the nightmares that invaded her head. Sporadic minutes of sleep were interrupted by misery until a new morning arrived.


    However, with the bright of the day, her energy waned. Her unshed tears faded away, and so did her will to end her life. Much to her dismay, a simple knife couldn¡¯t kill a monster like herself.


    She had no choice but to live.


    Sunlight seeped into the bathroom through a narrow window. Remnya remained silent, lost in the void of her mind. Unable to see or hear anything. She had lost all sense of time, and the cycle repeated with another endless night.


    Over time, her nightmares became less frequent. They lost their strength, and her sister¡¯s voice resounded louder and more vivid in the depths of her soul.


    Brisa asked her not to give up.


    . . .


    She still had a reason to live.


    . . .


    On a cold morning, Remnya rose again.


    She looked into the cracked mirror, witnessing how her wounds had become less visible. Her eye had recovered, and her hair had grown slightly over the last few days.


    Feeling numb still, Remnya turned on the shower and allowed the freezing water to wash off the remnants of blood, ashes, and soot from her body. The water turned brown under her feet, mixing with cut hairs.


    Remnya left the bathroom, grabbed a Karx uniform from a chair, and headed to the bedroom. She sat still, contemplating the silence until she overhead birds and cows outside. Even if trivial, those sounds made her understand she had survived and that the world awaited her return.


    Clad in her new Karx uniform, Remnya finally stepped outside, and the sun welcomed her with the heat of another opportunity. She lifted her eyes to the sky, unaffected by the glare of the golden star, and murmured, ¡°Sorry for worrying you, Bris. I¡¯m back now.¡±


    *¡ã*¡ã*

 77: Remnants

    Remnya


    At sunrise, Remnya could appreciate the endless acres of the camp. Farmlands rested on the volcano slopes, and a scattering of cabins sprawled along a sharp ridge. Ominous clouds covered the volcanic peaks in the north, casting distorted shadows, and a faint murmur from deep within the Earth''s core reverberated through the air.


    Remnya''s cabin nestled far from the others, concealed amid ancient oak trees and surrounded by a cow farm. She leaned against the rustic fence, gazing at a massive cow and her calf. The duo regarded her with wary curiosity, and a fleeting smile graced Remnya''s lips as she connected with those creatures for an ephemeral moment.


    It was a short walk through rocky terrain before she spotted Debrin Kavram cooking under an avocado tree. Encircled by vegetables, he sliced five carrots at once and dropped them in a cauldron with boiling water. Remnya approached him, forcing herself to look into his eyes.


    "Welcome back," he said with a smile and resumed his activity.


    "Does it look awful?" she asked, clenching his fists.


    He stopped again to inspect the mess she had done to her head. "It looks decent, but let me fix it a little for you." Debrin left his vegetables on a table and summoned his four vectors. They surrounded her, a soft breeze hitting her face, and began cutting her hair with quick slashes. She remained still until his spectral arms vanished. "That should do it."


    "Since when do you know how to cut hair?"


    "Did you already forget I once had a daughter?" he said, his lips twitching.


    "No . . . I didn''t forget," Remnya murmured and walked to the old truck parked nearby to check her appearance in the mirror. Her short hair looked a lot better. "How long was I in there?" she asked, stretching her arms and cracking her knuckles.


    "Over one week." Debrin tossed a lunch box at her. "So you better start eating again. You need it."


    "Thanks, but there''s something I need to do first." Remnya left the food on the table beside him and headed toward the center of the camp.


    The strangers glanced at her; unfamiliar faces, bodies of steel, hardened by countless battles. A mixture of conflicting emotions emanated from those warriors. Some eyes reflected melancholy and grief, others the desire for vengeance, and a few the vacant stare of resignation.


    And she wasn''t different from them.


    "REM!"


    A high-pitched voice echoed in the distance, and Remnya saw a little girl running in her direction.


    "Amy?" Her jaw slowly dropped.


    Amy jumped on her, tackling her with all her strength, and wrapped her arms around her torso. A startled Remnya needed time to assimilate the moment, but her soft embrace seemed to awaken traces of the dormant humanity in her.


    Feeling her little friend''s warmth against her body reminded her of her past and who she had once been: not always a monster but a young orphan with hopes and dreams.


    Remnya swallowed and hugged Amy tightly. Her chest burned with guilt, knowing how close she had been to her mother, yet she could never bring them together.


    "I''m so happy to see you, Rem!" Amy told her with teary eyes.


    "So am I." She forced herself to smile.


    "You look so different!"


    "You think so?" Remnya patted her head, caressing her horns, now developed completely.


    "Yes!" Amy bobbed her head. "You look pretty and strong!"


    Remnya widened her eyes. "Are you sure about that?"


    "Of course! The new look really suits your face."


    She lingered on her words for a moment and then stifled a chuckle. "Not as pretty as you." She pinched her cheeks. "But thank you."


    "I saw Zeo," Amy rushed to say, but her face changed as soon as the words left her mouth.


    Remnya tightened her lips and remembered the events narrated by Manzur. "I know." She leaned closer and narrowed her eyes. "Zeo is the reason you''re here. He fulfilled his promise, didn''t he?"


    Amy shifted awkwardly, lowering her gaze. "He left me again."


    "He had no choice." Remnya placed her index finger under Amy''s chin and lifted her head to look into her eyes. "But don''t worry. I''ll go back there and bring him to you, safe and sound."


    "Can you do that, Rem? It''s dangerous! I heard the bad people caught him."


    "It doesn''t matter." She furrowed her eyebrows. "I''ll rescue him. I promise."


    Amy''s eyes shined with hope under the sunlight. "Rem, it''ll be like in the orphanage, remember?"


    "What do you mean?" She tilted her head.


    "You always protected Zeo from the bad kids!"


    Silence.


    "I guess . . . you could say that."


    Hesitant steps reached Remnya''s ears, and a pale girl stood nearby, clasping her hands. Her dark brown hair touched her shoulders, and long bangs covered her elusive blue eyes.


    "Oh, there you are!" Amy said, running to the girl. "Rem, look, look!" She pointed at her new friend effusively. "This is Stella. Zeo''s girlfriend!"


    "THAT''S NOT TRUE!" Stella shouted, her face turning red. "I was just part of his army!"


    "Army?" Remnya asked, turning to Stella to inspect her from head to toe. She noticed a deep scar on her cheek.


    Stella stood upright, giving Remnya a military salute. "My name is Stella Prandelli. It''s an honor to meet you, Remnya Scheduna." She bowed to her. "Zeo saved our lives and freed us from The Hunters, but there''s no other relation between us. That''s the truth."


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    "I see." Remnya offered her hand to Stella, and she rushed to take it. Holding it tightly, Remnya tested the strength of her grip and realized that the girl was no ordinary human. She nodded in approval. "I heard what Zeo did for you. That totally sounds like him."


    "I''ll forever be grateful to him." Stella averted her gaze.


    Amy elbowed Remnya and whispered, "She likes him."


    "I don''t!" Stella scowled at Amy and then looked at Remnya nervously. "I truly don''t, Ms. Remnya! At least not that way! I just¡ª"


    "You don''t need to explain yourself to me." Remnya leaned her hand on Stella''s shoulder, trying to calm her, and smiled. "If you like him, that''s okay. I''m sure he''d be happy to know someone cares about him."


    "B-but . . . but . . . " Stella stammered while her face turned red like a tomato, trying to find the right words.


    "Anyhow, Amy." Remnya messed up Amy''s hair. "Wanna go grab some food?"


    "Yes, please!"


    "Alright." Remnya turned to Stella. "You can join us if you want."


    Stella widened her eyes and hesitated. "Would that be okay?"


    Remnya and Amy nodded.


    "I''ll be honored to, Ms. Remnya."


    "Just call me Remnya."


    *¡ã*¡ã*


    The girls gathered around a large table under the shadow of a vine, where several plates of food had been arranged to feed the warriors. Remnya filled two dishes with roasted beef and potatoes and handed them to Amy and Stella. Then, she loaded her own plate with a mix of only vegetables and sat on a tree stump behind a cow enclosure.


    Amy dragged a chair with her to sit next to Remnya, and Stella stood nearby, glancing at them nervously. Cows lowed at their presence, and a curious calf approached Remnya, sticking his head out of the fence as she offered him a carrot. But as soon as Amy tried to pet him, he ran away.


    They ate in silence and observed the animals until someone approached them.


    Remnya lifted her gaze to see Debrin Kavram standing before her. "I prepared something for you." He tried to caress Amy''s head, but the little girl winced away from his touch. "Whenever you''re ready, meet me at the last cabin. Okay?"


    Remnya nodded, munching on a broccoli. "Can they come too?"


    "I don''t see why not, but you''ll have to be extra careful with them around."


    "Understood."


    Amy scowled at the tall man, scanning him from head to toe. "Who are you?" she asked.


    He smiled. "You can call me Debrin."


    "Oh! You''re Debrin! I am Amy."


    "It''s nice to meet you, Amy." He gave her a gentle handshake.


    As he revealed his name, Stella''s face lost all its color. She froze with her pupils dilated as if she had seen a ghost. Remnya noticed her reaction and walked to her. "You don''t have to worry about him. You''re not part of The Hunters anymore."


    Stella was breathing heavily, her hands sweating. "I never thought I''d meet the famous leader of Karx . . . " She gulped. "Is it really okay for me to stay here?"


    "Of course." Remnya put her hand on Stella''s shoulder. "He knows your story, so you can trust me when I say you''re safe here."


    She swallowed and bobbed her head. "Thank you." Then she bowed to Debrin. "It''s an honor to meet you, sir."


    Debrin bowed back to her. "Likewise, Stella," he said, gesturing with his eyes at Remnya before leaving. She understood what he meant and nodded.


    They finished their food, and Remnya cleaned the plates and cutlery with her fire, disintegrating every food remnant. Amy was impressed by her skill and began asking questions, which Remnya answered without hesitation.


    "That''s so cool!" Amy jumped, excited about her discovery. "The old hag always said you liked to burn things, but I knew that wasn''t true."


    Remnya grinned as they walked together. "Like when my bed burst into flames while I was asleep?"


    "Yes! Everyone was surprised nothing happened to you."


    "Well, now you know why."


    After a long walk, the girls spotted the last cabin at the end of a steep ascent through loose volcanic rocks and dry vegetation. Remnya held Amy''s hand firmly, assuring she didn''t fall, while Stella followed them with careful steps.


    The last cabin was like a fortress, built with black rock like obsidian, giving it a gloomy aspect. Several training dummies and rusted weapons lying on the ground surrounded the place, and behind, a metal door revealed a narrow path squeezed by dark mountains.


    Remnya approached the door, and Amy poked the locks. "Where this goes?" her friend asked.


    "The Vezzanyo," Debrin answered as he walked out of his cabin, holding two teddy bears in each hand. "That''s the name of our volcano." He gestured with his chin toward the dark clouds rising to the north.


    "Is that a good place to train?" Remnya observed the volcano on the horizon.


    "I can''t think of a better place for you." He gave Amy a huge purple teddy bear.


    Amy inspected the gift with wide-open eyes. "For me?"


    Debrin nodded. "I heard purple is your favorite color."


    "Thank you!" Amy beamed at him, squeezing her new toy. "It''s so cute!"


    Remnya observed the gift and smiled. It was half of Amy''s size, and when her friend approached it to her face, she noticed it smelled of grape.


    "This one is for you." He gave Stella the remaining one.


    She froze, taken aback by the unexpected courtesy. "Sir?" Hers was green with a heart on its belly.


    "It''s okay if you don''t want it, though."


    "No, it''s not that." Stella observed her gift and blinked in confusion. "But why?"


    "I thought you girls would like it. That''s it."


    Her hands hesitated, but she finally took it between her arms. "Thank you, sir."


    "Stella!" Amy ran to her to compare their bears. "Yours is green like Zeo''s hair!"


    "Hey! That''s not true." Stella frowned. "It''s green like, uh, apples."


    Remnya stifled a chuckle and walked to Debrin. "Thanks," she whispered.


    Debrin glanced at her. "I had one for you, but I don''t think you want it."


    "Yeah, Amy can have mine." She folded her arms and narrowed her eyes. "Now, I need you to tell me how to get to the volcano. I can''t waste any more time."


    "I will." Debrin turned to Stella. "Can you two take cover, please?" He pointed at the cabin.


    Stella widened her eyes and quickly understood his request. She grabbed Amy''s hand and took her inside. However, they observed the upcoming clash through a small door opening.


    Debrin''s eyes began to glow as rocks rose and swirled around him. The air vibrated faster with each swing as he glared at Remnya. "Show me you''re ready."


    Before she could answer, the rocks shot at her like bullets.


    Remnya dodged the first and second attacks, but the latter scratched her cheek, causing crimson flames to erupt from her hands.


    More rocks approached her, whistling through the air, but with a swipe of her arm, her fire destroyed them, turning them into glowing sparks that rained around her, melting the ground.


    Stella observed the crimson fire flickering in Remnya''s hands with admiration. "Amazing," she murmured.


    "Wow!" Amy''s mouth was wide open as she hugged her bear.


    Debrin summoned his vectors, and the ground began shaking like an earthquake.


    A massive boulder emerged behind Debrin, raising soil, volcanic rock, and roots.


    With a brief gesture of his lips, he hurled the boulder in her direction as if fired from a canon.


    Remnya saw no opening to dodge the attack, so she raised her arms, and two fireballs formed in her palms. They grew massively until the boulder reached them.


    As the projectile touched her fire, the fireballs detonated. The force of the explosion pushed Remnya into the ground, burying her legs up to her knees while she resisted.


    The boulder seemed to crush her arms but stopped as her fire began disintegrating its surface. She let out a scream of rage, followed by a burst of energy that broke through the projectile.


    The boulder shattered and exploded into thousands of burning pebbles. A rain of fire fell on them while Stella and Amy hid in the cabin. Remnya sighed in relief; her calculations had been correct, and the explosion hadn''t reached their hideout.


    "As expected." Debrin folded his arms while small fires spread around the whole place. He put them out with a swing of his vectors. "Ozura did a great job with you."


    "What was the point of that?" Remnya scowled, exhaling smoke from her mouth. "Stupid tricks like that won''t work on me."


    "I wanted to ensure you were ready to go beyond the gate."


    "Of course I am ready!" She clenched her fists.


    "The dangers out there are not to be taken lightly, Remnya."


    "I don''t care. I want to break my limits once and for all."


    Debrin analyzed the fiery look in her eyes and nodded. "If that''s your wish." The magnetic field surrounding the mountains disappeared, and the metal door behind the cabin unlocked.


    "Rem!" Amy ran toward her. "You''re amazing! How did you do that?"


    "That was nothing." Remnya put her hand on her friend''s head. "I will become much stronger than this and bring Zeo back."


    Amy opened her mouth in awe. "Yeah! If someone can do it, that''s you, Rem!"


    Her words gave Remnya a boost of hope. She clenched her fists and bobbed her head. "A promise is a promise."


    "That means you''re going to that volcano?"


    Remnya kneeled before Amy and held her face between her hands. "Yes, but first, I want to spend the rest of the morning with you." She gave her a tender smile. "What do you say?"


    "Yay!" Amy hugged her. "Yes! Let''s have fun today!"


    *¡ã*¡ã*

 78: Eclipse

    Zeo


    Zeo awoke in a room surrounded by steel walls and red neon lights that burned his vision. It was cold with the scent of dust and rust, embracing him into a new calvary. Memories of Ozura''s final moments echoed in his mind, accompanied by the lingering metallic taste, a stark reminder of his defeat. His left arm remained numb, and his vectors lay dormant, but the rest of his body had recovered.


    A plate of food lay on the floor, inviting him to satiate his hunger. Zeo took it between his hands and observed a scant portion of orange puree and a boiled egg. He ate without a second thought and then sat still, feeling the pressure of silence.


    Time crawled by until the cage door opened, emitting an electric buzz reverberating with loud clangs. A rush of cold wind swept in, and a familiar figure walked forward, his boots heavy, resonating in his ears.


    "You?" Zeo murmured, seeing his old enemy before him: Edo. The man wore a blue and white uniform, a typical attire for a private soldier, unworthy of a pure Nephilim warrior.


    "Why did you return?" Edo asked, frustration reflecting in his eyes.


    "I had a mission here." Zeo shrugged. "Besides, living like a fugitive doesn''t appeal to me."


    "You''re stupid." He shook his head with disdain. "Marakudra gave you a chance, and you threw it away."


    "Did I?" He narrowed his eyes. "I saved my friend. That''s all that matters."


    "Yeah, and it turns out that orphan you helped escape is way more valuable than everyone thought."


    "What do you mean?" Zeo feigned ignorance.


    Edo hissed. "When they sent you on that mission, they didn''t know who that child truly was, but recent DNA tests have confirmed their suspicions."


    "DNA tests?"


    "They keep blood samples of every potential recruit, and she is no exception." Edo took a deep breath and folded his arms. "That child is the daughter of our commander and executioner, Virgil Alzer."


    Zeo''s eye widened, recognizing the name but never having seen the face of that monster. "That piece of shit is her father?" He spoke with disgust.


    "Listen, fool." Edo squatted before him, his gaze penetrating his soul. "You were lucky Marakudra saved your pitiful self, but things have changed. You''re no longer useful to them. You are but a mere slave now, worthless." He tightened his lips. "Take it from me. If you appreciate your life, start cooperating with them."


    Silence.


    "What happened to Marakudra?" Zeo shifted the focus, diverting from his harsh reality.


    "She''ll suffer the same fate as you." He spat on the floor. "Can''t say I''m not enjoying the thought."


    "And what about you?"


    Edo chuckled, a bitter edge to his tone. "Can''t you see me? I lost my rank. Our whole damn army got demoted. We, the top dogs, are now assigned to humiliating roles. The rest? Reduced to slaves, or worse. All thanks to Marakudra''s idiotic decisions. She doomed us all!" He punched the wall, crushing the metal as an echo filled the room. "From the beginning, I knew this would happen. She''s always been an incompetent bitch."


    Zeo processed his words, jaw clenching. "Where is she now?"


    "In another cell, getting what she deserves, so is her pet, Pyon."


    "You''re not locked in a cage, though. And they''re suffering. You should be happy."


    "Her suffering is irrelevant to me." Edo stood up, stretching his neck from side to side. "After all, every one of us will pay for her mistakes sooner or later."


    Zeo bobbed his head. "Thanks for telling me."


    Edo looked at him, teeth bared. "I still can''t believe you were so fucking stupid. You have no idea what kind of monster Virgil Alzer is."


    "I''m not worried about him." Zeo closed his eye and rested his head against the cold metal wall. "I''m ready for anything."


    "Because you don''t know him," Edo whispered, his voice cold and tired as he walked out of the cell and gave Zeo a pitiful look while the door closed.


    A loud clang echoed in Zeo''s ears, followed by silence and a heavy aura that lingered around him with the weight of uncertainty. He wondered why Marakudra hadn''t deserted as planned. Her actions seemed as unreasonable as his own. What was holding her back?


    More questions than answers plagued Zeo''s thoughts as he closed his lone eye and tried to alienate himself from reality. His fate seemed sealed; there was no escaping the will of his tormentors. Nevertheless, knowing Amy was far from their claws helped ease his heart.


    On a freezing day, Edo returned without uttering a word. Zeo understood the reason for his premature arrival. He stood and shook the dust off his torn clothes. The collar around his neck emitted a loud beep and vibrated as the red light atop the doorframe turned blue.


    Zeo walked out of his cell, and Edo pushed him to walk in front of him. The fact that Edo hadn''t restrained his limbs or used anesthetics on his body meant he knew his vectors were dormant, or perhaps he trusted that collar with his life.


    Metal doors with numbers lined the corridor, and cockroaches scurried before Zeo''s bare feet. The stench of fecal matter emanated from some cells, mixed with the lingering humidity in the air, created a dense atmosphere that enveloped Zeo as he strode toward his next challenge.


    A gelid gush of wind brushed against his skin as a large gate opened, and the reek of putrefaction filled his nostrils. On the other side unfolded a vast enclosed arena, illuminated by red and white floodlights towering over them like metal giants. A thin mist clung to the cracked concrete ground, sending a chill through Zeo''s feet and legs.


    Edo pushed him forward, and with each step, the reek of death intensified. Zeo glimpsed a few skeletons piled up nearby and a crawling torso with half of its body missing, begging for mercy.


    The gleam of a throne-like chair perched on a steel platform compelled Zeo to lift his gaze. There, a man loomed over them. A surge of disgust filled Zeo''s chest as an oppressive presence penetrated his soul.


    "Great Virgil, I present you with the prisoner, Azlanin Zeo," Edo declared as he dropped to his knees and bowed like a slave.


    A silver skull mask covered the face of a man clad in a pitch-black uniform with a snake emblem on his shoulder. His purple hair spilled over his shoulders, and within the hollow eye sockets of his disguise, two orbs glowed in eerie green. Zeo recognized his rotten energy, a haunting echo of an unforgettable memory. Even though his heart was calm, his knees trembled, and sweat prickled his skin.


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    Virgil eased from his chair, revealing a long Nephilim tail. His body ascended, defying gravity like a specter of death, and landed before them. The air shifted, becoming thick and oppressive, carrying an elusive scent that hinted at burnt flesh and molten metal. Was this monster truly Amy''s father?


    "Leave," he ordered, his voice low and soothing. Edo bowed and departed immediately. The man''s gaze shifted to Zeo, laden with the weight of countless deaths. "So, you''re my daughter''s ally."


    Zeo widened his eye and swallowed, trying to compose himself. "Your daughter?" He clenched his fists.


    Virgil made a pause before speaking again. "Azlanin Zeo, your actions have led to the abduction of my daughter by Karx."


    He gathered the strength to speak without a care for his life. "Since when do you care about her? She was abandoned in an orphanage!" His words left his mouth with anger and frustration.


    Silence.


    Virgil seized his mask, its sharp claws long and black, and pulled it away from his face.


    Zeo''s pupil dilated, confronted with the true appearance of the monster before him. His heart recoiled at the realization that Amy shared the same tainted blood.


    Nonetheless, the resemblance hit his soul like a punch. His lime-green pupils were an eerie replica of the innocent eyes of his friend. His hair color and even the shape of his horns reminded him of her. Zeo stepped backward and grimaced, refusing to accept that sight.


    "Her mother hid her existence from me," Virgil spoke, devoid of emotions. "Yet, upon learning of her, I returned. Unfortunately, she was already gone." He tilted his head and stared into Zeo''s insides. "Due to her mother''s interference, the blood of my blood is far from where she belongs."


    "She doesn''t belong with you." Zeo gritted his teeth.


    "Is that so?" Virgil circled Zeo like a lion stalking his prey. "She''s a Nephilim. Her blood is my blood. Sooner or later, her true nature will awaken, and the world will regret it."


    Zeo took a deep breath, regaining control over his body. "What do you want from me? No matter what you say or do, I won''t tell you anything."


    "I am aware of that." He halted in front of him and leaned in. Deep scars crisscrossed his face like a spider web, and most of his nose and ears were missing. "I don''t need you to tell me anything. I already know where she is."


    Cold shivers ran down Zeo''s spine. "What do you mean?"


    "Manzur Faradh ran away with my daughter. He''s hiding her in a village within the Kingdom of Rexton."


    Zeo''s jaw dropped while his heart kicked against his chest. "That''s . . . not possible."


    Virgil smiled, displaying his yellow fangs. "It''s just a matter of time before my daughter returns to me."


    "Nonsense!" Zeo shouted, narrowing his eyes. "You''re just bluffing now!"


    "If that''s what you want to believe." Virgil turned his back to him and raised his right arm. Teal electric arcs formed around his fingers, and his hair raised as electricity filled the room. "Do you want to know something else?"


    "Uh?" He took one step back.


    "Remnya Scheduna is coming for you." Virgil turned to him.


    "What?" Zeo widened his eye, and before he could process his words, Virgil grabbed his throat, shattering his collar, and an electric shock surged through his body, making him groan in pain.


    As he struggled to breathe and break free, the monster released him, dropping him on the ground. "Don''t worry. All I did was reactivate your Anlas receptors."


    Coughing, Zeo rose from the ground, attempting to retaliate, but quickly realized Virgil spoke the truth. His vectors emerged from his face, hovering around him, pulsating with sparks of green energy.


    Virgil twisted his lips into a deformed smirk, his fangs shining. "You, Anglishes, are an interesting species. I''ve always been fascinated by your vectors and regeneration skills."


    Zeo furrowed his eyebrows as his spectral arms vanished. No matter how much he desired to destroy him, that was beyond his possibilities. He had to conserve energy. "Tell me . . . " He took a deep breath, clutching his neck. "What do you mean by Remnya is coming for me?"


    Virgil crossed his arms, observing Zeo''s fatigued figure. "I''ve encountered your Nephilim friend. She now belongs to Debrin Kavram, a pitiful yet understandable circumstance. I saw the potential in her; she''s no ordinary creature. That''s why I allowed her to live."


    A cold shiver traveled down Zeo''s back as he clenched his fists. "She has no reason to come for me."


    "Oh, but she will." A sick smile drew across his unreadable face. "Not only because of you, but also because I gave her a reason to come for me."


    His words made Zeo understand his sinister intentions, and his blood began to boil in his veins. "You fucking bastard . . . WHAT DID YOU DO TO HER?" He took a step forward, raising his fist.


    "I got rid of the useless burdens she carried with herself."


    "WHAT DO YOU MEAN?"


    "I eliminated every living creature surrounding her. However, she seemed the most appalled about this particular creature."


    The world froze around Zeo as his words slowly penetrated his mind. "Did you . . . " He didn''t dare to finish his questions, his heart racing with despair.


    "Yeah. There was this female human carrying the spawn of Ronner Kavalar in her insides." Virgil shrugged. "Naturally, I had to get rid of both."


    . . .


    As if a volcano had erupted in his chest, a torrent of hatred surged through Zeo''s body, propelling him forward with unrestrained fury.


    His vectors exploded around him, and a powerful punch landed on Virgil''s jaw, carrying not only his fury but also the weight of Remnya''s tears.


    A shockwave rippled through the arena, propelling his enemy against a concrete wall. His body crashed through the unyielding surface, disappearing under tons of rubble, steel, and rock.


    Zeo''s fist trembled and smoked, glowing intensely. "YOU FUCKING PIECE OF SHIT!" he roared, veins bulging in his head.


    His vectors buzzed like enraged hornets, hurtling toward the breach in the wall, eager to locate Virgil''s body and destroy it.


    Blinded by anger, Zeo unleashed a relentless assault, aiming to pierce his enemy. The wall crumbled, rocks melting as his energy intensified. Sparks and lightning enveloped the entire area, Zeo''s eye shining in a blinding emerald green.


    "Don''t waste your energy." Virgil emerged from behind Zeo. As he turned to face his enemy, the monster delivered a brutal sidekick that broke his jaw and sent him crashing into a column.


    Struggling to rise, aided by his vectors, Zeo found his arms and legs restrained. Rings of teal energy encircled his wrists and ankles, searing his skin. His vectors attacked Virgil only to disintegrate in the face of the massive energy emanating from his body. An odious aura that burned Zeo, filling his nostrils with the smell of burnt flesh.


    Virgil Alzer loomed over him, the side of his face reddened from the punch, a trickle of blood rolling down the side of his mouth. "I see you both share the same reckless behavior. Lack of self-control and an inclination toward the most primal emotions. This is why you''re destined to be a slave your whole life, Azlanin Zeo."


    "Go fuck yourself!" Zeo spat, ignoring the pain in his jaw, giving Virgil a death glare. He wished he could tear the monster apart with his bare hands. "You will pay for what you did, you hear me? YOU WILL PAY FOR IT!"


    The monster stifled a chuckle. "I''m looking forward to the day she comes for me."


    Zeo wanted to spit out all his insults but realized it would be futile, a waste of time and energy. His anger would change nothing, neither for him nor Remnya. He bit his tongue and took a deep breath, seeking to appease the anger in his heart. "Why am I still alive?" he asked, swallowing the blood in his mouth along with his hatred. "Why don''t you end me once and for all?"


    "For starters, I adhere to the orders of the Great Zagado, but I also have my own reasons." He folded his arms, and the energy rings around Zeo''s limbs disappeared. "Besides, Remnya Scheduna will want to see you alive."


    "What makes you think she will come?" Zeo sat, drenched in sweat, panting, the pain in his jaw incessantly pounding in his head. "She doesn''t even know if I am still alive."


    "She will come. That is a certainty." Virgil cracked his knuckles and then wiped the blood from his mouth with the back of his hand. "The true question is, will you survive until then?"


    His question left him speechless, devoid of answers. Zeo knew Remnya wouldn''t give up on him. No matter what, it wasn''t in her to abandon her principles. She wasn''t a coward like himself. Rem would come.


    Zeo''s fists clenched, and he lowered his gaze, the weight of realization settling on his shoulders. "Can you, at least, tell me what the hell you want from me?"


    "I want you to stay alive, Azlanin Zeo," Virgil replied, a nonchalant shrug accompanying his words. "That''s all."


    The sincerity in the monster''s voice made his skin crawl. If the rumors held true, Virgil Alzer had already discerned his weaknesses and would exploit them to turn his life into hell. Keeping him alive would give him plenty of chances to make him miserable.


    "I don''t care what you do." Zeo declared, rising to his feet and meeting Virgil''s perverse gaze head-on. "But know that I''ll never help you hurt my friends. Even if I need to die to protect them."


    Virgil''s response was a chilling smile, his pupils glowing with a disturbing green radiance. The monstrous figure turned his back on Zeo, ascending into the air until he vanished into the thick fog veiling the arena.


    Zeo stood there, drained of energy and the will to fight. The thought of Remnya''s suffering fueled his anger and regret. His soul cried, yet his body stood like solid steel, refusing to break. Even if the world conspired against his existence, he had to resist.


    He knew, with unwavering certainty, that Remnya would come. Sooner or later. There was no doubt anymore. She would come to retrieve either his broken body or his rotting corpse, but she would come.


    Rem.


    Until that day, Zeo resolved to keep fighting¡ªfor Remnya, for Amy, and for the childish promise of a day when they could stand together again.


    *¡ã*¡ã*

 79: Fire Crystals

    Remnya


    At Amy''s insistency, Remnya spent the night within the camp, departing before sunrise while the stars kept vigil. Clad in Karx uniform, she shouldered a borrowed backpack with a change of clothes, food, water, and her friend''s favorite toy¡ªa worn-out doll with one eye and no hair.


    The cold wind lashed against Remnya''s face, freezing her ears as the mysterious terrain unfolded in darkness. She refused to use her fire to illuminate the path and relied on her other senses.


    Amid the alpenglow, rocky silhouettes emerged, bathed in an orange aura, revealing an imposing volcano on the horizon. Dark clouds veiled the snowy peak, intertwining with the toxic gases emanating from the Earth''s core. An inert volcanic crust extended for kilometers with vents exhaling hot vapors.


    Fourteen kilometers of arduous ascent and subzero temperatures awaited, yet her only concern was whether or not Zeo could survive long enough. She trusted her friend''s strength and ignored the intrusive thoughts threatening with a tragic outcome.


    As a panoramic view of Rexton''s valleys grew behind her, the path became steeper, and clouds covered the sky. The surface beneath her boots took on a stickier texture while sporadic gusts of wind played a game of ice and fire, alternating temperatures with each breath.


    The height increased, the sky darkened, and an intense reek of sulfur filled her nose. A few raindrops landed on her skin, acid rain. They were heavy and warm but unable to harm her.


    Remnya widened her eyes when something glowed in the distance. Dense rivers of magma flowed between the rocks like blood. She rushed forward, eager to see such a fascinating liquid for the first time. She dug her hand into it and grabbed a chunk, squeezing it between her fingers. It looked like liquid candy mixed with sand but felt dense and heavy as a rock.


    A smile escaped her lips. Her fire body was a privilege for an ephemeral moment. Not many could ever experience that connection with nature.


    Her journey continued through several magma rivers and chimneys of hot vapors. The air was thinner, and her body felt heavier with each step.


    After one hour, Remnya crossed what Debrin called the Sunset Zone, and the first traces of death emerged along the path. Two human skulls lay half-buried in molten rocks surrounded by volcanic flies. The insects were half the size of her fingers and fed on rotten flesh.


    Remnya witnessed more skulls and bones, but the further she advanced, the older and drier they were. Debrin had warned her of the "Necrotix" that inhabited the Sunset Zone. She had no idea what that meant but was eager to find out.


    The first sight of said creatures happened when she stood on the edge of a cliff to marvel at the view of Rexton''s valleys. A strange humanoid creature wandered around a volcanic pit at the bottom of the cliff.


    Fascinated, Remnya slid downhill along the slope and landed on a rock. She walked toward it, making enough noise for the Necrotix to notice her.


    The creature turned in her direction. It was tall and bony with long arms and short legs. Its face reminded her of a corpse, with two worm-filled holes for eyes and rotten flesh falling apart to reveal a massive skull. Its teeth were large like a horse''s and lacked ears, so Remnya assumed it detected through smell.


    Suddenly, it charged at her like an enraged animal. She took a fighting stance and focused on its movements.


    The beast was quick and swatted its arms violently at her. Remnya evaded the attacks, causing its hands to hit the ground with enough force to shatter the obsidian in half. It let out a shrilling shriek of anger and agony and attacked again, but she was faster and sent it flying against a rock with a sidekick to the head.


    "This thing smells awful." She grimaced at the reek of rotten flesh.


    The Necrotix twisted its body, defying anatomy, and crawled in her direction on all fours faster than before. Remnya summoned her fire and engulfed the creature in flames.


    However, it didn''t stop and pounced on her, shrieking and opening its mouth.


    Surprised by its speed, she couldn''t dodge the whole attack, and its teeth scratched her leg, ripping the Kevlar off her pants and part of her skin.


    Remnya landed on her elbows and back and quickly jumped back on her feet. "Interesting," she said, increasing the temperature on the Necrotix''s body until it began to melt and fall apart.


    The creature kept trying to reach her until its legs collapsed. Yet, it dragged its torso toward her, using its limbs like a spider, stretching its neck, and opening its jaw frenetically, eager to consume her flesh.


    Remnya smashed the creature''s head with a descending kick and crushed its skull with her heel, cracking it in half against the sharp terrain. A brown and green liquid full of larvae oozed from it.


    Even headless, the Necrotix kept swatting the remnants of its arms in her direction and scratched her arm. Remnya gritted her teeth and burned the rest of its body until it became ashes.


    Remnya observed her deed for long seconds and analyzed the outcome of her first battle. Underestimating those creatures would be a mistake, she realized. Besides, the energy necessary to kill them was high.


    Stolen novel; please report.


    Debrin had told her there were hundreds, if not thousands, of them, roaming around there.


    Remnya smiled and looked up at the cloudy sky, her heart beating faster, craving for the next challenge.


    *¡ã*¡ã*


    On the first night, Remnya heated an instant soup on the running magma beside her improvised camp amid a flat terrain. The temperature had dropped below zero, but the warmth of lava kept her body from freezing. The air was thin, and the toxic gases in the atmosphere made her dizzy, but she trusted her lungs could handle it.


    The lament of Necrotixes echoed in the distance, interrupting the silence, but her fatigue overpowered the noise.


    Remnya slept for a few hours and woke up with an intense headache before sunrise. Ignoring the pain, she drank water, gathered her belongings, and continued the ascent.


    Although the top of the Vezzanyo was a mere seven kilometers away, the remaining path posed daunting challenges.


    Necrotixes of different sizes crossed paths with Remnya, but thanks to her previous encounter, she was more cautious and avoided using her fire to preserve energy. Their weaknesses and strengths became more evident with each kill.


    Despite lacking eyes and ears, the Necrotixes possessed a developed sense of smell, and their endurance surpassed anything she had faced before.


    Her body received minor scratches during her confrontations, and the itch on them intensified with every passing minute. Yet she was too focused on her goal to care.


    A dense blanket of clouds embraced Remnya within a cold and dismal landscape, where she could barely discern her arms. Humidity filled her nostrils, along with the sulfur smoke signaling that her destination was close.


    Her boots crunched an unfamiliar surface. Remnya lowered her gaze and saw her feet surrounded by snow. It was Remnya''s first time seeing that cold substance. She picked a handful and crushed it between her fingers while her eyes widened at the rare sight.


    Curiosity led her to take a bite, but the bitter taste, infused with sulfur and ashes, immediately compelled her to spit it out.


    After hours of fighting through an almost vertical ascent, Remnya rose above the clouds, panting, with her fingers frozen.


    An intense orange light on the horizon merged with the smoke, reflecting on the sky where sporadic sunbeams seeped through. Remnya climbed the last step of snowy rocks and raised her head to witness her destination.


    The Vezzanyo top spread before her eyes. An immense crater radiated a blinding glow, its heat waves brushing her skin. It pulsated like a living being and bent reality around its reach.


    A smile drew across Remnya''s lips as she walked around the edge of the Vezzanyo, looking for the best path to descend into The Heart. Molten snow rolled down the slopes like small cascades along with water vapor.


    Climbing down a glowing rock, Remnya began her descent into the bowels of the Earth. The lava lake beneath her was mesmerizing, glowing in different tones of red. It seemed to growl as the molten rocks rumbled, echoing against the walls with the pops of magma bubbles.


    Remnya sat on the edge of a pointy rock and closed her eyes, feeling the hot breath of the core brushing her hair. Perhaps she was a demon, after all.


    The gates of hell felt like home.


    A nearby wall cracked, and chunks of rock fell into the lake, creating a brief stillness.


    Then, a distant roar shattered the silence, reverberating across the crater and bringing Remnya back to reality.


    As she opened her eyes, a formidable force struck her head, propelling her body against the rocks.


    A massive creature stood before her, roaring with the force of thousands of lions. She thought of a Necrotix, but it had a muscular figure and human proportions. Even its movements reminded her of a seasoned warrior.


    The creature charged at her and crushed her against the volcano walls with several punches as it tried to bite her face.


    Remnya harnessed energy in her hands and pushed it away with an explosion of crimson fire.


    The beast precipitated toward the crater but caught a protruding edge and stopped the fall. It climbed like a spider, its glowing eyes approaching at great speed. It roared and launched another assault.


    Even though Remnya blocked the attack, its heavy punch embedded her into the walls with brutal force. She tried retaliating, but the monster snatched her torso and jumped with her into the crater.


    Unable to break free, Remnya channeled a stream of fire to reduce the impact against the lava, yet it felt like a freight train crashing on her body.


    As the creature tried to bite her, Remnya shot it in the mouth with a fireball and held its jaw with her right hand to protect her neck. Another crimson blaze shot from her left palm, forcing the beast to release her.


    She sprawled on the unstable ground of magma, and her boot soles began to melt. The creature jumped at her and hit Remnya with its head, followed by more punches that impacted her face and body.


    Bewildered by the creature''s exceptional speed and strength, Remnya questioned whether her body had weakened or her enemy was beyond her capabilities.


    Unable to defend from its attacks, the monster buried its fangs in her shoulder, causing her to groan in pain.


    "You rotten bastard!" Remnya summoned her crimson ghost, and the temperature of her body increased until it reached its maximum.


    A punch forced the creature away from her with its mouth smoking and lips melting, and then her Crimson Ghost pounced on it, sending it toward the crater.


    "DIE!" Remnya jumped too, her body glowing with fury, and charged all her energy into a massive fireball.


    Her attack impacted the creature on the chest and buried it into the bottom of the crater. Remnya covered herself as the lava rose, filled with crimson fire.


    A massive explosion followed, and an enormous eruption covered the sky with a mesmerizing orange and crimson glow. The Vezzanyo ejected Remnya''s body like a bullet, and lightning formed above the crater like a hellish storm. The volcano fractured, causing an avalanche of rocks, lava, and fire.


    The world around Remnya as she fell from the sky like a luminous meteor. Desperately, she shot fireballs against the ground to reduce the impending impact. However, the violent fall almost rendered her unconscious. Her body was buried under tons of half-molten rocks.


    Incessant earthquakes shook the whole place, and lava lakes flowed toward the valley of Rexton like blood. Remnya groaned in pain as she crawled out of the ground, bleeding and coughing. "Dammit!" She ignored the pain and ran downhill, stumbling upon sharp obsidian.


    She desperately ran along the glowing avalanche, trying to think of ways to stop the apocalypse from reaching the camp where her friend was.


    As Remnya was about to summon her fire, a flash blinded her eyes, forcing her to stop.


    A thick ice layer covered the ground.


    The lava stopped, sizzling while everything around her froze. Vapor filled the atmosphere, and the earthquakes ceased.


    Remnya dropped to her knees, panting, smoke coming out of her insides while she witnessed a surreal view. A crystal landscape emerged before her eyes like a mirror, sparkling like thousands of diamonds. The hot atmosphere turned into an icy wind that brushed her hair.


    Relief filled her heart, understanding that Debrin was the craftsman behind that spectacle of ice. She lay on her back and stared at the cloudy sky, sore and exhausted.


    However, within the depths of hell, a dreadful energy pulsated with ire. Whatever had attacked her was still alive and craving for her blood. It wouldn''t take long until it broke free from its temporary prison.


    Remnya stood up, adjusted her torn clothes, wiped her blood, and limped toward her camp, knowing the most challenging training of her life had just begun.


    *¡ã*¡ã*

 80: Desperate Stand

    Zeo


    Enduring the intense pain throbbing in his jaw, Zeo wandered through the foggy arena, his mind clouded by uncertainty. A distant red glow marked the exit, but as he approached it, the gates slammed shut with a resonant thud, followed by a rumble that echoed in his ears. His fingers brushed the cold metal, and anger oscillated in his chest like waves.


    A shrill sound filled the arena, and a familiar voice emanated from different directions. Zeo turned around, looking for the source of that noise.


    "Zeo, my friend! Long time no see!" A large screen illuminated above a metal structure, revealing Arkor''s grinning face. "How are you doing, buddy?"


    Zeo grimaced at the sight of his old teammate and clenched his fists. "You?"


    "Me!" He laughed. "I''m glad you decided to come back. I missed you."


    "I thought you were dead."


    "Oh, no." Arkor shook his head. "That Ozura lady took good care of me." He taunted him with a smirk. "Too bad she''s dead now, though."


    "Too bad she didn''t get rid of trash like you." Zeo spat.


    "It hurts me that you think that, buddy." He pouted. "But on the bright side, we''re back together now. Just like the old times, uh?"


    Zeo rolled his eyes and vented his frustration by punching the gate behind him. "What do you want?"


    "I have a little favor to ask you. There are some troublemakers here, and I need a hand dealing with them. Would you mind helping me?"


    He raised an eyebrow, knowing nothing good could come from that traitor.


    The whole arena began shaking, and the center of the floor split open. A metal platform rose from the underground, carrying four men. They surveyed the surroundings with confusion and hatred.


    "Yo, Ricio! Are you ready, my man?" Arkor asked.


    The older man looked at him with contempt. "What kind of game is this, you sick bastard?"


    "The boy in front of you is none other than Zeo." Arkor giggled, his eyes shining. "He is your mission. If you want the rest of your people to be released, all you need to do is eliminate this rapist."


    "Rapist?" Zeo muttered, unable to believe his words.


    The leader locked his deep black eyes on him and scanned him from head to toe with disgust. "Is that it? Aren''t you playing with us?"


    "Yeah. That''s it." Arkor nodded. "If you manage to eliminate this guy, I''ll release Karia, Mero, and Ivy."


    The man took a deep breath, and his gaze switched from Zeo to his companions and then back to Arkor. "You give us your word?"


    Arkor bobbed his head. "Of course! You have my word."


    "HIS WORD MEANS SHIT!" Zeo snapped, pointing at the screen. "That scumbag is a traitor and a liar! I know because I fought alongside him. Don''t listen to his bullshit."


    The man seemed to hesitate for a moment and glared at him. "Do not dare speak to me after what you did."


    "What the hell are you talking about?"


    "All the witnesses described you exactly like this. A green-haired Anglish with an eyepatch. Don''t try to fool me now!"


    "Exactly!" Arkor agreed, folding his arms. "He''s been imprisoned for the rape and murder of Launa Klemin. He no longer has a place in our society."


    "LIAR!" Zeo stepped forward, veins bulging in his forehead. "I was thrown here because I went against their twisted ideals! All The Hunters are disgusting trash with respect for no one!"


    "You already hear the testimonies of the witnesses." Arkor sighed and shook his head, pretending to be sad. "That child Launa suffered a lot. She deserves some peace, don''t you agree?"


    "If that''s all it takes . . . " a red-haired boy whispered, holding Ricio''s arm. "We can do this, yes?"


    Ricio exhaled, thought for a moment, and bobbed his head. "Arkor, if you don''t keep your word, you will pay for it."


    "Don''t worry, my friend. I always keep my word." Arkor smiled. "Now I''ll go tell Karia to pack her things. That her dad is coming for her. Good luck!"


    This book was originally published on Royal Road. Check it out there for the real experience.


    The screen turned black, leaving a chilling silence that engulfed the arena. Zeo''s heart kicked in his chest as he stared at the men before him. "Arkor, I''m gonna kill you as soon as I get the chance," Zeo muttered between teeth, anger building up in his insides.


    "Your horrible crime won''t unpunished." Ricio raised his guard, his fiery eyes locked on Zeo.


    "You can''t believe that scumbag." Zeo buried his nails in his palms. "Come on!"


    "Quiet, you disgusting rapist." He spat on the ground and gestured at his men, who took a fighting stance. "I''ve heard enough. I have no reason to believe you."


    Eight hatred-filled eyes penetrated Zeo''s soul like daggers, and a deep desire to make him pay for something he never did. Zeo realized reasoning with them would be futile, and swallowing his frustration, he prepared for the impending attack.


    "You guys stay behind. Remember the way we practiced," Rocio told the boys. "We don''t know what he''s capable of yet. Keep your eyes open and senses alert."


    "Understood!" they answered in unison, surrounding their leader.


    Ricio drew two swords from his back and charged at him like a bullet.


    Zeo evaded the first slashes, his body feeling clumsy and slower than usual, but his will to survive kept his senses sharp.


    His opponent increased his speed, and the attacks became more difficult to predict until one blade opened a superficial wound on his arm. He tried to move away, but Ricio grabbed his leg and lunged for it with his sword.


    His vector stopped the attack inches before his thigh, and Zeo countered with a punch to his opponent''s jaw.


    Ricio stepped backward, stunned, and Zeo''s spectral arms grabbed him by the neck, sending him to the ground. The man struggled against his grip and threw uncoordinated slashes that he avoided.


    The red-haired boy kicked Zeo on the back, pushing him away from their leader, while a chubby man crushed his already broken jaw with a heavy punch.


    A third man tried to pierce his neck with a dagger, but his vectors stopped him and smacked his face.


    Punches and kicks approached from all directions. Zeo struggled to keep up with the flurry of blows raining over his body. Many broke through his guard, causing severe pain, but he focused on avoiding the deadliest threats; several blades whistled past his face and neck.


    Nevertheless, his blood painted the ground as more and more slashes sliced his skin. "Dammit!" Zeo roared, and his vectors lunged forward, knowing he had to stop them before he lost more blood. "STOP IT! I DON''T WANT TO KILL YOU!"


    The red-haired boy saw an opening and buried his dagger in Zeo''s arm, making him groan in pain and contract his muscles.


    He pulled the knife out and lunged for his stomach.


    But one vector impaled the red-haired boy, entering through his groin and coming out of his trapezius. The boy dropped to the ground, his blood spurting all over his friends and Zeo. They stared in horror, paralyzed, except for Ricio, who attempted to stab him in the chest.


    "STOP IT, DAMMIT!" His remaining vector severed Ricio''s right arm, and a shower of red rained over the floor, yet the man didn''t stop and used his remaining limb.


    Zeo leaped to the side to avoid his attack and kicked him on the back, sending him face-first to the ground. He cursed and shouted things Zeo couldn''t understand. His mind was blank; his only goal was to survive the twisted game set up by Arkor.


    Another blade buried in his stomach, stopping halfway thanks to his vector but causing severe damage to his insides. Zeo''s spectral hand found the culprit and stabbed him through the eye, piercing his brain.


    The chubby man let out a short gasp and collapsed like a bag of cement.


    Ricio struggled to get up as he lost liters of blood while the remaining boy stared at him with horror and shock. The boy trembled before Zeo''s gaze, his face covered by blood and his eyes filled with tears.


    Zeo stopped momentarily, his brain processing his horrible deeds and guilt consuming his soul as he stared at the corpses around him on a large pond of blood. "You made me do this . . . " he murmured. "I ASKED YOU TO STOP!" He breathed heavily and put his hands on his head.


    The time stopped, and silence deafened him until the only sound was the violent kicks of his heart resounding in his skull. Was that the price of surviving?


    Dying seemed like the most merciful path for his pitiful existence. However, Remnya''s image flashed before his vision.


    . . .


    Ricio disappeared, and Zeo took a second to react.


    When he noticed his enemy''s presence, he was already looming over him with his sword inches away from his chest.


    Unable to evade or stop it, Zeo closed his eyes.


    . . .


    A thick, hot liquid rolled down his skin like a warm embrace, and a metallic smell filled his nostrils.


    A metal sound echoed in his ears as a blade hit the ground.


    And Ricio''s body dropped to his knees.


    His headless body leaned against Zeo''s leg while a fountain of blood sprayed his clothes and skin.


    Someone stood behind him and put a hand on his shoulder, black fingernails gripping it tightly.


    Devoid of energy, Zeo turned and saw Marakudra looming over him with a somber expression on her face. "That was close, you idiot."


    "It was." He stared at her lifelessly, clenching his fists to check if his limbs were still attached to his body. "Why are you here?"


    "Same reason as you." She shrugged and kicked the headless body away from him. "This is why your stupid ass should''ve never returned."


    "I didn''t ask to be saved," Zeo murmured as his eye searched for the lone survivor of the group. He found the boy lying on the ground unconscious with a knife in his hand.


    "You can''t die yet. I need you alive." Marakudra frowned and pushed him away. "You stupid asshole." She paced around the victims, her boots resounding through the arena. Deprived of her uniform, Marakudra wore a tank top, making her huge muscles, tattoos, and scars visible, and ragged military pants.


    "Why didn''t you escape, though? I thought that was your original plan."


    "Because I still got a mission here." She inspected the boy and kicked his body to make sure he was still alive. "I can''t leave until then."


    "I see . . . " Zeo felt dizzy and nauseous, the whole place turning around him.


    "You lost too much blood." She walked to him and grabbed his arm, not to let him fall.


    The gates opened, and several men in white uniforms walked forward, holding guns and multiple tools.


    Everything became blurry while one of them injected something in his veins, numbing his senses.


    Unable to understand reality anymore, Zeo closed his eyes while someone carried him through an endless hallway. He allowed exhaustion to shut down his body and mind for an ephemeral moment, knowing his hell had just begun.


    *¡ã*¡ã*