《The Glitched One》 Chapter 1: Theres gotta be someone When I asked the question, "Teacher, is there a god?" he chuckled and answered, "Well, Axel, theres gotta be someone responsible for all this shitshow, right?" I still remember that day, how that small moment shaped my childhood. When I was bullied, I believed that God would punish them, that Id be rewarded for enduring it all. But as I grew older, I realized how naive that thinking was. Eventually, I asked myself, "What if theres no one?" I lowered my head onto the desk, eyes shutting to the hum of classroom chatter around me. The room buzzed with students talking among themselves, their conversations overlapping each other. A girl with her hair in loose braids whispered something to her friend across the aisle. Nearby, a group of boys laughed a little too loudly, their desks cluttered with open books from the previous lesson. Sunlight filtered weakly through the cloudy windows, casting a soft glow that seemed at odds with the noise. "You heard what happened?" one girl said to her friend, leaning closer as if sharing a secret. "He failed at math. Again." "Shh. Hell hear you," her friend replied, stifling a giggle. Thankfully, they weren''t talking about me. With my dull expression and a presence so forgettable, I doubted they even knew my name. Honestly, I couldn''t blame them; I only knew the teachers name myself. "Hey, Ax," James called out, dropping into the seat next to me with a grin. "You look rough." "Hmm." I muttered, rubbing the back of my neck. "Worked late hours. You really should stop that. He said. Hey, you heard whats going to happen today? Its awesome. Ill earn millions of dollars? Better than that. He replied. You know the story of the lost school, right? I even sent you a mail about it yesterday. Mail? I asked. How old are you, sixty? It was a made-up tale about this school where, 100 years ago, in 1930, all the students and their teacher mysteriously vanished. And today marked the centenary of that event. They said it happened one evening after classes ended, coinciding with some rare alignment of the stars---bla, bla. Just a story to scare children, I guess. Stop believing in fairy tales, James. Ah, shut up. Its exciting to think it could be real. James was one of the few names I remembered in this class. He had this oddly approachable vibelike he could charm his way out of hell straight into heaven. With his natural blond hair, sharp features, and that effortlessly warm smile, it wasnt surprising he was popular with the girls. But his gaze always seemed to drift to one personAda, the quiet girl at the back, who also happened to be my childhood friend. He pulled out a biology book from his bag, setting it on his desk with a thump. Two rows behind us, Ada sat by the window, her eyes distant, staring out at the gray sky. Our school uniform was simple: Ada and the other girls wore a navy blue pleated skirt with a white blouse, the collar and cuffs lined with a subtle shade of blue that matched the school crest. The boys, including James and me, were dressed in matching navy blue trousers, white shirts, and blazers with the same crest embroidered on the pocket. "Man" James sighed, his eyes never leaving Ada. "I wanna talk to her." I didnt respond, just leaned back into my chair, eyes half-open as I stared at the ceiling. My body ached from yesterdays shiftworking as a waiter in the city''s busiest district was no joke, but at least the pay was good. Id finally saved enough to upgrade my old phone which had a cracked screen. Seeing James still watching Ada, I closed my eyes, exhaling slowly. My hands slipped into my pockets as I settled back, waiting for the teacher to show up. Outside, dark clouds loomed overhead, a light drizzle tapping against the window panes. Just hours earlier, the ground had been blanketed in snow, and now it was soaked. Krenda''s weather always seemed to defy logic, shifting from winter''s chill to a spring-like dampness in the blink of an eye. "Come on, say something," James groaned, nudging my arm. "Don''t just grunt and lean back like that." "What do you want me to say?" I asked, my tone dull. "Tell me I should talk to her." "You should talk to her. James squeezed the bridge of his nose, frustration clear in his expression. "Ugh... You''re as dense as you look, Ax." "Hmm. The teacher entered the classroom, a stern look on his face as he scanned the room. The moment he stepped in, the buzz of chatter died down, and everyone returned to their desks, sitting straight and quiet. Today wasnt just any ordinary dayit was the day wed finally find out how we did in the biology test. The tension was almost tangible; one could see it in the way everyone held their breath, eyes flicking nervously toward the front. Ms. Carter shook her head, adjusting her glasses as she scanned the rows of students. Her expression was hard to read, but it was clear she wasnt pleasedit was almost like she was silently scolding us all. Being in the F-class, the so-called "worst of the worst," failing was always on the table. "All of you failed," she announced, her voice clipped and stern. "Even you, Ada. Im disappointed in you." Gasps and mutters spread through the room. "We all failed?" a student mumbled in disbelief. "Wow" Ms. Carter didnt let the chatter last long. "This calls for a punishment," she continued. "I spoke with Mr. Soon, and he agreed to my proposal." "Proposal?" James muttered under his breath, his brows furrowing. Unlawfully taken from Royal Road, this story should be reported if seen on Amazon. "You will all attend an extra biology lesson after school," Ms. Carter stated, her tone leaving no room for negotiation. "Itll last 45 minutes." A wave of groans rippled through the class. James let out a sigh of resignation, Ada simply rested her chin on her palms, her eyes steady on Ms. Carter. It mustve taken an impressive amount of failure for all of us to bomb an exam this thoroughly, so the extra lesson didnt feel like an overreaction. Still, Id have to let my boss know I''d be late to work, and he''d definitely dock my pay for it. "Now," Ms. Carter continued, her voice slicing through the remaining murmurs, "open your books to page 231. And if I hear any more talking, youll be looking at another punishment." "Great," James grumbled under his breath, shaking his head. "This sucks, Ax. Seriously sucks." "Mm." I muttered, flipping to the page without much energy. "It does." "But hey, that means Ada''s gonna be here after school too, right?" His tone perked up a bit, and his eyes flicked toward her. "Maybe I can finally get a conversation going with her?" "Yeah, you do that, James," I said flatly, my voice lacking enthusiasm. "Im sure youll sweep her off her feet." "Sometimes I wonder why I''m friends with you, Ax" he muttered, sounding both amused and defeated. TTTTTT?TTTTTT As the last bell rang, signaling the end of our regular lessons, most students gathered at the windows, watching others leave the school grounds. I walked to the far end of the classroom, fishing out my phone to call my boss. After a few rings, he picked up, sounding annoyed even before he spoke. "Hey, Ms. Olim," I said, keeping my tone even. "I, uh, wont make it to work today. Got an extra lesson ''cause" "Okay, scar-head," he cut me off brusquely. "Itll come out of your paycheck." "Yes, sir," I replied, staring blankly at the ceiling. "Thanks." "Uh-huh," he muttered before hanging up. "Scar-head? Jerk," I said under my breath, slipping my phone back into my pocket. "Talking to yourself?" Adas voice came from beside me, her presence sudden yet somehow calm. "My boss," I replied, meeting her eyes for a moment. "Let him know Im gonna be late." Adas dark brown hair was styled into a pixie cut, sharp and neat, framing her face in a way that highlighted her high cheekbones. She was medium-height, her posture always slightly slouched, but there was a certain alertness in her dark eyes, like she was always half a step ahead of the conversation. "I''m thinking of just sneaking out," Ada said, a small smirk playing on her lips. "Pretend Im sick or something." "Hey!" James appeared, practically bouncing over. "Ax! And, uh, Ada. Hi!" "Hey," Ada said, giving him a polite nod. "James, right?" "Yeah!" He grinned, scratching the back of his neck awkwardly. "Surprised you remember my name." "Im not like Axel," she teased lightly. "Ive got enough room in my brain to remember a few names." "Har-har," I deadpanned, already moving back to my desk. "Gonna catch some shut-eye." Settling in my seat, I put my head down, hoping to nap, but sleep just wouldnt come. I shifted, leaned back, sipped some water, even put on my headphonesnothing worked. Finally, I pulled out a book Id borrowed from James and started reading. Outside, the weather turned gloomier, dark clouds casting a heavy shadow over the school as the last few students trickled out, and the security guard closed the front gates, retreating into his booth. All the while, James kept rambling to Ada, never quite managing to bring up anything that seemed to interest her. He went on about random topics, and when Ada finally excused herself, returning to her seat, he sank into his chair with a sigh. "Hey, Ax," James said, looking utterly defeated. "I think I might be an idiot." "And the sky is blue," I mumbled, not even looking up from my book. "I talked about the stock market!" He groaned, burying his face in his hands. "Told her she should tell her parents to invest in Kiroma shares Ax, her parents are fucking dead. I didnt know that. Why didnt you tell me?" "Never asked," I replied calmly, turning the page. "Couldve been worse, though, right?" He slumped further into his chair. "Man do you think I upset her?" Before I could answer, the door opened, and our biology teacher walked in, a serious look on her face. I straightened up, tucking my book back into my bag as the rest of the students fell silent, eyes fixed on Ms. Carter. "You might see this as a punishment," Ms. Carter said, standing confidently in front of the blackboard. "But in reality, this is an opportunity for you to get better. Im not going to sugarcoat ityou might be in F-class, the worst of the second years, but that doesnt mean you dont have to try. Ms. Carter was in her mid-twenties, strikingly beautiful with a kind of elegance that seemed out of place in our dull classroom. Her long chestnut hair was pulled back into a ponytail, and her sharp green eyes carried a mix of disappointment and determination as she spoke, like she genuinely believed we could do better if we tried. It was hard to find these types of teachers in this day and age As two minutes passed, James let out a bored sigh and started twirling his pen between his fingers, his attention clearly drifting away. It was obvious he''d had enough of school for todayjust like everyone else in the class, myself included. "Well" James leaned in, lowering his voice. "Hows life at home?" "Ms. Carters gonna notice," I muttered. "Dont talk." "Were whispering; she wont even notice," he insisted, a small grin on his face. I shot him a look of exasperation. "James, seriously. Just zip it, okay? I dont wanna" "Mr. Millo," Ms. Carter''s voice cut through the air like a blade, her gaze landing sharply on me. "What could possibly be so important that you need to discuss it with your friend right now?" "I, uh" I stammered, feeling my face flush. "I was just telling him Im feeling a bit under the weather, maam. Could I go to the restroom for a minute?" Ms. Carter narrowed her eyes, skepticism clear. "Under the weather, is it?" she repeated. "Fine. You may go. But be quick about it." "Yes, Ms. Carter. Thank you," I replied, throwing a sidelong glance at James, who tried to hide a smirk. As I exited the classroom, I heard a few students snickering under their breath. Ignoring them, I shut the door behind me and let out a long sigh, heading down the quiet corridors. The emptiness made the place feel almost eerie, the kind of silence that makes you second-guess every step you take. If I believed in ghosts, I''d probably have turned on my heel and gone straight back to class. I pushed open the door to the restroom and stared at my reflection in the mirror. My brown hair was a mess, and dark circles clung under my eyes like permanent shadows. I wasnt exactly handsome, but I wasnt ugly eitherjust another forgettable face in the crowd. Turning on the faucet, I splashed cold water on my face, the chill jolting me slightly awake. I took another glance in the mirror, shaking my head. "What a hassle" I muttered to myself. Just as I was about to leave, a flash of bright red light caught my attention through a nearby window. I tried to ignore it at first, but curiosity got the best of me. Changing direction, I moved toward the window, peering outside. What I saw made my blood run colda massive black sphere hovering in the sky, its surface twisted and veiny, as if it were alive, pulsating with some sickly movement. It didn''t belong here; it looked like something ripped straight out of a nightmare. I blinked, and in that heartbeat of a moment, the sphere transformed into a grotesque eye. It snapped open, staring right back at me. "What in the?" I whispered, my voice barely audible, disbelief tightening in my chest. Before I could react, I felt something cold and unnatural beneath my feet. My eyes darted downward, and I saw a dark, swirling hole expanding on the floor, like ink spreading in water. I looked back at the window, and everything outside was suddenly normal again, as if the giant eye had never existed. Panic surged through me as shadowy hands emerged from the hole, their fingers coated in some kind of dripping black goo. They clutched my legs, yanking me down with a strength that felt otherworldly. "Help!" I shouted, my voice breaking with fear. "Somebody! Help!" But my cries were swallowed by the silence. My struggles were useless as the hands pulled me deeper into the abyss, my fingers clawing at the floor in desperation. Then, as my entire body was engulfed by the darkness, everything went pitch black. I was falling into the void, sure I was done forgone. And for the first time in my life, I hoped my teacher was right; that maybe, just maybe, there was someone out there responsible for all this shitshow. Chapter 2: Level 1 I diedor at least, I thought I did. Slowly, my senses returned, the world around me coming into blurry focus as I groaned, my body aching all over. I lay on something cold and soggy. Every slight movement made a squishing noise, though I couldn''t fully grasp it with my ears still ringing like crazy. Nausea churned in my gut, but I forced myself to hold it down. Birds chirped nearby, their sounds cutting through the haze, and as my vision cleared, I saw the branches of trees swaying above me. The sky was a bright blue, the sun casting its light down, and a cool breeze rustled through the leaves. My clothes were caked in mud, sticky and wet. "Ugh" I muttered, shaking my head. "Man... crap." Level 1: Axel HP: [????] 60/100 Mana: [????????] -1/100 Stamina: [??] 70/100 Options: [Inv | Skills | Quests] "What I blinked hard, my vision warping and darkening. I fell face-first into the mud again, my cheeks smeared with dirt. I managed to crawl away, grabbing onto a nearby tree for support, using my sleeve to wipe off the mess. Then, I realised I was in a forest, trees in every direction, their leaves thick and filtering the sunlight. I took a shaky step forward, my knees almost giving way beneath me. Catching hold of a low branch, I steadied myself, panting heavily. It took a few seconds before I could walk without stumbling, though my head still spun, my balance teetering. "What wherewhat? How?" I mumbled, confusion clouding my thoughts. Suddenly, a rustling sound came from behind. I spun around, heart racingonly to freeze at the sight of a creature standing a few feet away. It was a monstrous two-headed dog, its fur a deep charcoal black, each head with glowing red eyes. The most startling feature was its tail, which flickered like a burning torch. Both heads seemed to breathe in sync, small puffs of smoke escaping their nostrils. Its left head had a scar running across one eye, giving it a fierce look, while the right one had slightly drooped ears, almost giving it a sad expression. Despite its intimidating appearance, its eyes didnt seem hostilemore curious than aggressive. But I wasnt taking any chances. My eyes widened in terror, and I turned to run, my feet slipping on the muddy ground as I scrambled to get away. Adrenaline kicked in, driving me forward even as my legs threatened to buckle. I didnt dare look back, focusing only on escaping the beast. "No, no, no!" I shouted, my voice hoarse with panic. "Help! Someone, help!" I broke through to a clearing, a dirt road cutting through the trees, and to my right, a carriage trundled slowly toward me. It looked like something out of an old western moviea wooden cart with large wheels, creaking as it moved. The coachman slumped in his seat, half-asleep, the reins loose in his grip as the horses plodded along. Waving my arms frantically, I dashed toward the carriage, yelling at the top of my lungs. The coachman jerked awake, dropping the reins in surprise, his hand instinctively reaching for the sword at his belt. "Help!" I screamed, stumbling to a stop in front of the carriage. "Please, there''s a monsterit''s chasing me!" The man squinted down at me with a mix of concern and disbelief. "What in the blazes happened to you, boy? Youre covered head to toe in mud!" "Flaming tail monster," I panted, my breath coming in ragged gasps as I pointed back to where Id come from. "It was chasing me two heads its real, I swear!" The coachmans expression softened slightly, though he still kept a firm grip on his sword. "Two-headed dog with a flaming tail, you say?" He gave a low chuckle, shaking his head. "You mean a Trododle? "I dont know..." I muttered, my voice shaky as I stared at the creature. "What is that?" The creature trotted down the dirt road, its four paws kicking up dust. It wasnt massive or tiny, just about the size of a regular stray dog you''d see wandering the streets. But still, the sight of its two heads and the flickering flame at the end of its tail had my nerves buzzing. When it got about four metres from us, it stopped and began spinning in circles like a playful pup. I raised an eyebrow, glancing at the coachman for an explanation. "Everyone knows theyre harmless," the man chuckled, shaking his head. "How did you not know that, boy?" "I didnt..." I stammered, confusion plastered on my face. "I dont know?" With a grin, the coachman hopped off the carriage, dusted off his worn-out clothes, and casually approached the creature. Crouching low, he reached out to pet its heads, and the beast rolled over, exposing its belly like a domestic dog begging for scratches. The coachman rubbed its stomach as if it were the most natural thing in the world. Either Id somehow missed the news that wed discovered a bizarre new species or I was trapped in the most realistic nightmare of my life. The coachman was a man in his forties, with a rugged face framed by a bushy beard and hair that had streaks of grey running through it. He wore a long, buttoned coat, weathered boots, and a wide-brimmed hat that shaded his stern eyes. His outfit was like something from a different era, which was a weird fashion choice. "What happened to you, boy?" he asked, his gaze shifting back to me. "You look like youve been through hell." "I... I saw something weird in the sky," I blurted out, trying to piece my thoughts together. "And thenI was in school? Where am I?" He narrowed his eyes. "Oh, boy, you really are a strange one." Unauthorized content usage: if you discover this narrative on Amazon, report the violation. I looked around, hoping for some familiar landmark, but there was nothing. Just an endless stretch of forest surrounding us and a narrow dirt road cutting through it. Birds chirped from the branches above, the forest alive with sounds that felt foreign to me. I wiped more mud from my face, turning away from the coachman as I took a deep breath, hands on my hips in frustration. The creaturethis two-headed dogsuddenly bounded over to me, nuzzling my legs like a cat and circling around me playfully. I stood rigid, afraid to make any sudden movements that might trigger an attack, my eyes locked on the beast. "I..." I muttered, turning back to the coachman with uncertainty in my voice. "Where are we? I dont remember a forest anywhere near the city." "Youre far from the city, lad," he replied, his tone softening a bit. "Are you a survivor from that village? If so, the gods mustve been watching over you." "Village?" I repeated, trying not to sound completely clueless. Not wanting to raise suspicion, I nodded slowly. "Yeah. Im from that village." "Poor kid..." He sighed, walking to the back of the carriage and pulling away the blanket covering the rear. "Maybe you know some of these folks?" When he yanked the blanket off, my stomach twisted at the sight. At least ten bodies lay there, lifeless and pale, their clothes stained with dried blood. Some had deep gashes across their torsos, others had limbs severed, and one man''s neck was cut so deeply it seemed barely attached. Flies buzzed around the gruesome scene, their relentless hum making me want to hurl. I staggered back, my face going white as I pressed a hand to my mouth to keep from gagging. "Too much for you?" the coachman said, his voice softer as he pulled the blanket back over the bodies. "Sorry, boy. Any of them your folks?" "N-no," I managed to choke out, swallowing hard to keep my composure. "Who... who did this?" "Goblins," he said flatly. "Poor sods never stood a chance." "Goblins?" I asked, disbelief hitting me like a punch. "Youre serious?" "Yeah," he replied. "We didnt think this part of Nutar had goblins... but we were wrong." "Nutar?" The name didnt ring any bells, and my confusion mustve shown on my face. He raised an eyebrow, almost amused. "You really dont know the name of the country youre living in? Youve got more than a few screws loose, boy." "I..." I began, but my head spun again, and I shut my eyes tight, trying to keep it together. "This doesnt make any sense." "Mustve been through quite an ordeal," he said, hopping back onto the carriage. "Come on, get in. You shouldnt be out here alone in your state." "Y-yeah," I muttered, grateful for the offer. "Thank you." As he reached out to help me onto the carriage, he gave me a small nod. "What''s your name, lad?" "Axel Millo," I replied, my voice still trembling slightly. "Mortan Catren," he said, offering a weathered smile. "Nice to meet you, kid." "Likewise. As the horses began to trot along the dirt road, the rhythmic clopping of hooves pulled me from my scattered thoughts. I tried to piece together what happened back at schoolhow that giant eye in the sky stared me down, then the black hole opened beneath my feet, dragging me into its depths. Beyond that, everything went hazy, like a fading dream I couldn''t quite grasp. The coachman reached into a worn sack beside him, pulling out a sandwich stuffed with tomatoes and cheese. Without taking his eyes off the road, he held it out to me, waiting for me to grab it. "Thanks," I said, taking the sandwich and biting into it. The taste was surprisingly good, fresh and comforting. "Its delicious." "Wife made it for me," he said, a hint of pride in his voice. I nodded, chewing thoughtfully. "She''s a great cook." His eyes flicked toward me, curiosity creeping into his expression. "You ran away from that village, didn''t you? Wherere your parents?" I hesitated for a moment, then lowered my gaze. "They died a long time ago." He paused, the lines on his face softening. "Oh... sorry to hear that." "Its alright," I replied. For some reason, his empathy made me feel a little less on edge. "So, this place... Nutar, right?" "Yeah, Nutar," he confirmed, raising an eyebrow. "Im not from around here," I admitted, glancing out at the endless stretch of trees surrounding us. "Im from... well, far away." "Oh? How long have you been here?" he asked, giving me a sideways glance. "Just shy a month," I lied smoothly, hoping he wouldnt press for details. "Gotcha," he said, nodding. "Which country are you from?" "The U.S.," I answered. "Huh? Wheres that, north?" His brow furrowed in genuine confusion. "Y-yeah. North." I said, forcing a nervous smile. "Its a small country, not many people have heard of it." "Ah, makes sense," he muttered, dismissing it with a shrug. Panic began to simmer just beneath my calm facade. Even a kid in elementary school would know what America is, yet this guy had no clue. That was a big red flag, a sign that I might be farther from home than Id ever imagined. I needed to find a way out of this mess, fast. I directed my gaze back to the road, trying to ignore the unsettling thought of the bodies piled up behind us. The universe seemed to have a twisted sense of humour, throwing me into this chaos with no lifeline. Out of the corner of my eye, I noticed a piece of paper peeking out from the coachmans sack, dangling slightly in the breeze. It looked like a map, and considering my decent grades in geographythank you, B+I figured I could at least try to get my bearings. "Hey," I said, swallowing another bite of the sandwich. "Mind if I take a look at that map?" "Hmm?" He glanced at me, then nodded, reaching into the sack and handing over the folded paper. "Sure, here you go." "Thanks," I said, unfolding the map and studying it closely. =================== NOTIFICATION =================== * Location Discovered: Un-a Forest * Map Updated! -------------------------------- + XP Gained: 5 -------------------------------- | Current XP: 05 / 100 -------------------------------- | Progress: ???????????? ========================= My eyes widened as a translucent box appeared in front of me, its text hovering just within my line of sight. And judging by the coachmans lack of reaction, he couldn''t see it at all. "What in the world..." I whispered, my voice trailing off in disbelief. "Everything alright, boy?" the coachman asked, giving me a curious look. "Uh, yeah," I stammered, quickly folding the map and forcing a shaky smile. "Yeah, its nothing. Just thought I saw something, that''s all." He gave me a slow nod, clearly unconvinced but choosing to let it slide. As he turned his attention back to the road. Oh, man, I whispered to myself. What is this Chapter 3: New quest After about five minutes of riding, Mortan, the coachman, brought the carriage to a halt to give the horses a break. I followed him as he hopped off, my eyes darting around, half-expecting some bizarre creature to leap out of the underbrush. Unlike me, Mortan looked completely at ease, as if he knew these parts were safe. Seeing his calm demeanour eased my nerves a bitless monsters, more peace of mind. Mortan pulled a brush from his sack and started grooming the horses gently. I stood a few steps behind him, watching. Back in the city, the most Id ever dealt with were stray dogs and the occasional cat. Seeing a horse up close for the first time made me anxious; they were so much bigger than Id imagined. We waited for about two minutes, Morton tending to his horses while I fixed my eyes on the dirt road ahead, trying to make sense of what was happening. This couldnt be realno way. This was either a vividly realistic nightmare or an elaborate prank. There was no other explanation because nothing was making the slightest sense. "Say," Mortan said, without looking up from his work, "how old are you, Axel?" "Sixteen," I answered. "Same age as my son," he said. "So, Im guessing where youre from, you go to school? Learning magic and all that?" I blinked at him in confusion. "Magic? What do you---" If you say you dont know what magic is, Ill just leave you here, boy. Stop fooling around. Not funny. No, no. I just I--- I shook my head to gather my senses. Its not real. What? Something is not right I put one hand against a nearby tree trunk, tilting my head down and shutting my eyes tightly. When I opened them, I wanted to wake up in my class. I wanted this nightmare to be over. Weird monsters, magicit didnt make any sense. This was just not making any sense at all. This had to be a nightmare. Opening my eyes, I sighed and gazed at the sky. Cold sweat ran down my face, my body shaking slightly. This was real. As real as it got. This I muttered. Where am I? Are you okay, boy? Mortan asked, placing a hand on my shoulder. I dont know, I said, pushing myself off the tree trunk and taking a few steps. This doesnt make any sense. Why arent you driving a car? Who even rides a carriage in this day and age? Huh? I mean this is just. Why? What do you mean? He asked. You mustve hit your head, boy. Calm down. This is real? Nah. No. Before he could respond, a sudden noise grabbed my attention. Someone was chuckling, but also trying to hold it in at the same time. ================= NEW QUEST ================= Quest Title: First Encounter -------------------------- Deadline: !Ambushed! Objective: * Eliminate the Goblins -------------------------- Rewards: - Gold: 5 - Experience: 10 XP ========================== "Goblins?" I mumbled, scanning the area. Before I could fully process what was happening, a small green creature with long ears and a wicked grin leaped out of a nearby bush, clutching a tiny dagger. I yelped, startled, and the horses spooked, rearing up before bolting down the road. The back of the carriage swung around, hitting me hard and sending me sprawling to the ground. The goblin didnt give me a second to recover. It lunged, dagger aimed right at my chest, but Mortan was faster. He kicked the creature square in the chest, pinning it down with one boot. Chanting something under his breath, flames burst to life in his palm. He aimed the fire straight at the goblin''s face, turning it into a smouldering mess in seconds. I stared in shock, my legs frozen as I took in the sight of the creature''s charred remains. It was magic. A real magic. Two more goblins emerged from the brush, snickering and inching closer. Thats when reality hit meI wasnt in my world anymore. "That... that fire," I stammered, scrambling to put Mortan between me and the goblins. "You just cast a spell?!" Mortan smirked. "Its the most basic one, kid. Dont tell me youve never cast a spell before." "I-I haven''t," I said, eyes wide, voice trembling. With a shake of his head, Mortan shoved a dagger into my hands. "Then defend yourself with this if you can''t use magic." Before I could even think about wielding the weapon, Mortan sprang into action. He made quick work of the remaining goblins, launching fireballs from his hands that turned them to ashes in moments. I stood there, stunned, watching the scene unfold. Magic was real, monsters were real, and I was in a world that seemed pulled straight out of a nightmare I needed to leave fast. =================== This book''s true home is on another platform. Check it out there for the real experience. NOTIFICATION =================== * Quest Completed: Ambushed -------------------------------- + XP Gained: 10 + Gold Earned: 5 -------------------------------- | Current XP: 15 / 100 -------------------------------- | Progress: ??????????? ========================= A translucent box appeared in front of me, and my knees buckled as I sank to the ground. The box seemed to hover in place, tracking my movements as if it were locked to my field of vision. Mortan, meanwhile, looked utterly unfazed, already scanning the road for his runaway horses. "Ah, there they are," Mortan said, pointing at the distant figures of the horses down the road. "Thought I had lost them for a second. "Goblins" I muttered, the word leaving a sour taste in my mouth. "Is the city safer than this place?" "Of course," Mortan replied, extending a hand to help me up. "Why do you ask?" "This place is way too dangerous for my liking," I said, gripping his hand and pulling myself to my feet. "Where Im from, we dont have problems like this." "Must be a paradise," he said. "Maybe I should visit someday." "Yeah," I muttered, brushing the mud off my clothes. "So, whats the name of the city were heading to?" "Kinowa," he said. "The biggest city in Nutar." "Biggest city, huh..." I repeated, my voice trailing off as I took in the reality of this strange world. "And the safest, right?" Mortan''s grin widened, a hint of mischief in his eyes. "Well, my dear friend," he said, "that depends. TTTTTT?TTTTTT As we climbed a gentle slope, the city of Kinowa finally came into view, surrounded by high stone walls with bowmen standing alert on top. Unlike the dense forest where Id woken up, the area around the city was more open, dotted with a few trees. The city seemed smaller compared to what I was used to, but in this world, I could see why it might be considered one of the largest. I could see a solid stone bridge that spanned a wide river in the distance. Beyond it were fields of crops gently swaying in the breeze, along with a small stable positioned just outside the city gates. It was all very different from the towering buildings of my world, yet it had its own quiet sense of purpose. Kinowa, Mortan said with a hint of pride in his voice. Magnificent, isnt it? I nodded, taking in the sight of the city. "Yeah," I replied, forcing a smile. "It really is." As we drew closer, Mortan pulled the reins, bringing the carriage to a stop on the side of the road. He hopped off, and I followed, unsure why wed paused so close from the city. From our vantage point, I could see the activity inside the wallspeople setting up stalls, chatting in small groups, and bustling through the streets. Mortan moved to the back of the carriage and sighed as he pulled back the blanket covering the bodies. He pointed toward a shaded spot in the forest, a small clearing just visible between the trees. Well drop them off there. The graveyard keeper will take care of the dead, he said, his voice calm but tinged with weariness. Can you give me a hand with them? I hesitated for a moment, then nodded. Alright, I said, swallowing back the lump in my throat. Its the least I can do. "Thanks," Mortan replied with a nod. Is this your usual job? I asked, hoping to keep my mind off the grim scene. Transporting bodies like this? Mortan gave a short, dry laugh. No. Im a blacksmith in Kinowa. I was on my way to that village to buy some supplies when I found it destroyed by goblins. I felt a chill run through me as he spoke. Thats... horrible, I said quietly. Mortan hoisted a womans lifeless form onto his shoulder with, while I reluctantly reached for the small body of a child. The sight made me flinch, my breath catching in my throat. His arm was gone, hacked off at the shoulder, his face eerily peaceful despite the violence he must have faced. I forced myself to grip tighter, lifting him while keeping my gaze averted. Doesnt the city have a graveyard? I asked, desperate to keep talking so I wouldnt focus on the body in my arms. It does, Mortan replied, his tone grim as he adjusted his hold on the woman. But its full, so they had to open another one out here, just a few minutes away. He glanced at me, concern softening his features. You alright? Y-yeah, I stammered, forcing a nod. Its just... my first time seeingwell, seeing a body like this. Mortans face darkened, and he stared at the ground for a moment. I was in the army once, he said softly. You get used to it. Seeing life fade from people you knew. As we stepped into the clearing, the air seemed heavier, the silence pressing in on all sides. A small cabin stood to one side, surrounded by tall grass and fresh-cut tree trunks. The only sound was the rustle of leaves and the faint creak of the wooden door as it swung open slightly in the breeze. In front of the cabin, a lone man sat on the steps of the door, chewing on an apple. His face was weathered and lined, like someone whod spent years tending to the dead in solitude, his eyes distant and tired. =================== NOTIFICATION =================== * Location Discovered: Graveyard * Map Updated! -------------------------------- + XP Gained: 5 -------------------------------- | Current XP: 20 / 100 -------------------------------- | Progress: ?????????? ========================= Kolaya! Mortan called out, his voice cutting through the silence. The man looked up, his gaze sharpening as he spotted us. Mortan? he replied, raising an eyebrow. Whats going on? Death going on. Mortan answered simply, setting the body down gently on the ground. A village got hit. Many didnt make it. Kolayas eyes flicked over to me, then back to Mortan. Whos this one? he asked, nodding in my direction. This is Axel, Mortan said, gesturing to me. Hes a survivor. Found him on the road, figured he could use a lift to Kinowa. I managed a small nod. Hello, sir, I said awkwardly, not quite sure how to greet a man who dealt with the dead for a living. Kolaya grunted in acknowledgment, his gaze lingering on me for a second before turning back to Mortan. How many more bodies? Too many, Mortan replied, shaking his head. Itll take us some time to bring them all here. Kolaya nodded, standing up with a resigned sigh. Alright, lets get to work then, he said, watching as I carefully lowered the childs body onto the ground. TTTTTT?TTTTTT I put the last body to rest and dusted off my clothes, but the stench of blood and death clung to me like a shroud. I kept my distance as Mortan and Kolaya spoke quietly, exchanging a handshake before parting ways. Never had I imagined I''d be hauling corpses to a graveyard. I needed to escape this nightmare. I missed my bed, my schoolhell, I even missed James annoying chatter. I didnt want to exist in this world for another moment. The coachman smiled at me and gestured toward the exit before moving ahead. I hesitated, then shook my head and followed him. You ready to hit the city now, kid? he asked. Yeah, I replied, hoping to find some answers there. I am Chapter 4: Kinowa The carriage drew closer to the bridge, the horses now trotting with more speed and energy, relieved of the weight from the corpses wed left behind. The sun dipped lower in the sky, casting a warm orange glow across the landscape. I could feel the stares of the nearby farmers as we passed. They glanced at me curiously, their eyes lingering on my muddied clothes and the mess of dried mud that streaked across my face. My hair, still damp from earlier, clung in clumps. I lowered my gaze, trying to smooth my hair into some kind of order with my fingers. It was a lost causemy appearance screamed "out of place." More than anything, I just wanted a long bath to wash away the grime and my growing unease. "Where would I find a world map?" I asked, hoping to gather some sense of direction. "Every tavern has one. Why do you ask?" Mortan''s eyes were still on the road, his voice casual. "Just wanting to get one," I replied, trying to sound nonchalant, though my mind was racing with thoughts of how to find a way back homeor anywhere that made sense. "You dont have a place to stay, right?" Mortan continued, his tone shifting slightly. "Youre going to need a job. Maybe try the Guild?" "The Guild?" I repeated, the word unfamiliar. "Yeah. Its where people pick up quests, make a living," he explained. As we rode on, we left the last farm behind and continued along the road. To our right was a small stable, and to the left, a few guards stood at ease, chatting with each other. Their leather armour looked basic, protecting only the essentials, allowing them to move freely and efficiently. They seemed more relaxed than I expected, their swords sheathed, but they still kept a vigilant eye on the surroundings. Mortan brought the carriage to a stop in front of the massive double doors of the city gates. Two guards stepped forward, their eyes sweeping over us, assessing in a way that made my skin prickle. "Hey, Mortan. Whats inside the sack, ingots?" one of them asked with a familiar tone. "Yep," Mortan said, nodding casually. The guard took a quick peek inside the sack, satisfied with what he saw, and then gave the nearest horse a friendly pat. He turned his attention to me, his gaze lingering as if trying to figure out why I looked so out of place and dishevelled. "Whos this?" he asked, his eyes narrowing slightly. "I found him near a village that was attacked by goblins," Mortan replied. "Hes the sole survivor of that place." "Goblins?" The guard''s face softened slightly. "Damn. Sorry for your loss, kid." "T-thanks," I mumbled, unsure of how to react. "All clear," the guard announced, signalling to the other. Together, they heaved the gates open, revealing the city beyond. "Welcome to Kinowa." =================== NOTIFICATION =================== * Location Discovered: Kinowa * Map Updated! -------------------------------- + XP Gained: 10 -------------------------------- | Current XP: 30 / 100 -------------------------------- | Progress: ???????? ========================= As the gates swung wide, I got my first glimpse of Kinowa, and the sight was breathtaking. The city spread out before me like a vision from another era. Cobblestone streets wove their way through clusters of quaint, two-story houses with thatched roofs and wooden shutters. Smoke rose from chimneys, mixing with the fading sunlight to cast a soft haze over the town. Market stalls lined the streets, vendors already setting up for the evening rush, their goods spilling out in a riot of colorsfresh produce, shining metal trinkets, and fabrics in every shade imaginable. At the heart of the city stood a grand tavern, its dark timber and stone structure bustling with life. Warm light spilled from its windows, and a wooden sign with a foaming mug swayed gently above the entrance. Flags bearing the city''s emblem fluttered from the upper floor, adding colour to the scene. In the distance, a bit to the right, I could see a blacksmith hammering away at a forge, sparks flying with each strike, and nearby, a group of children darted through the narrow alleyways, their laughter echoing in the air. To my left, just a few metres past the city gates, was a building with two guards flanking the front entrance of it. The sign that was swaying in the air had a sword icon, and under that it read, Guardhouse. If you encounter this narrative on Amazon, note that it''s taken without the author''s consent. Report it. "Wow," I muttered under my breath, the words slipping out before I could catch them. "Yeah, wow indeed," Mortan said with a chuckle. "Ill drop you off at the Guild. Thenyoure on your own, kid. No heartbreaks because I cant take you to my home." "Of course," I replied, nodding slowly. "Youve done enough for me. I can manage." The road split in three directions. To the left, a zigzagged path climbed a gentle slope. Straight ahead lay a massive tavern, seemingly the busiest part of the city, teeming with life and noise. To the right, a narrow lane stretched on, too tight even for a cart, ending with a statue of a kneeling woman, her eyes obscured by a snake. She held a vase, and water flowed from it into the fountain at her feet. Noticing my gaze lingering on the statue, Mortan pointed toward it. "Goddess of Death. Rowe," he said, his voice carrying a hint of reverence. "Thats the graveyard site. Goddess of Death, I repeated thoughtfully. Hmm. Were getting close, he continued, slowing the cart. Ill drop you off here. Okay, I agreed, glancing at the surroundings. The cart halted in front of a blacksmiths workshop. A young man, probably around my age, was hard at work, his brow glistening with sweat from the heat of the forge. His build was solid, with broad shoulders and the kind of muscular arms that spoke of years of swinging a hammer. His hair, a wild mess of dark curls, framed a face that was both rugged and kind. His eyes, sharp yet warm, flicked up as he noticed us arriving. A small smile crept across his lips, and he gave Mortan a respectful nod before turning his attention to me with a curious tilt of his head. Hey, son, Mortan called out, hopping off the cart with a grunt. How was the day? You were late, the young man replied, a crease of concern forming on his brow. I was worried about you. What happened? Mortans face darkened slightly as he wiped the sweat from his brow. The villa where I bought the equipment was attacked. Goblins. Had to haul the bodies to the graveyardcouldnt just leave em there. The gods wouldve judged me. The young man shook his head, his lips pressing into a thin line. Yeah, but risking your life like that... its not worth it, Father. He paused, then glanced my way. Whos this? The village I was buying the equipment from?, Mortan said, gesturing to me. Goblins attacked. Hes the sole survivor. I jumped down from the cart, landing lightly. Hello, I said with a small nod. Im Axel. Aiden, he responded, his expression softening. Nice to meet you. And... Im sorry about your folks. Oh, I was living there alone, I said with a dull voice. My parents passed a long time ago. Ah... gotcha. Mortan pointed toward a worn staircase across the street. You see the stairs? Go up and turn right. Walk a bit, and youll find the Guild building. I followed his gesture and saw the weathered stairs sandwiched between two houses, each with a small backyard. Turning back to Mortan, I nodded in gratitude. Without his help, I''d still be lost in that forest, unsure of what to do next. Thank you, I said, sincerity clear in my voice. For everything. No problem, kid. Take care of yourself. Hmm. Oh, and, he added, as if suddenly remembering, head over to The Diamond Eyes. Tell em I said hi. You can get cleaned up there. Thanks, Ill do that. I turned and began climbing the stairs, feeling the weight of the citys eyes on me. My clothes were a mess, caked in mud and grime, and I could sense people whispering behind my back as I passed. At the top, I turned right as Mortan had instructed. The streets here were wider, enough for two carriages to pass comfortably with plenty of room for pedestrians. The houses looked sturdier, with large backyards that suggested a more affluent area. In the distance, I spotted the Guild building. It was a large, imposing structure with a weathered wooden sign that creaked slightly in the breeze. The emblem on the sign depicted a shield and sword crossed, symbolising unity and strength. Thats gotta be it, I muttered to myself, feeling a mix of relief and apprehension. But first, I needed to clean up. The Diamond Eyes was just next to the Guild building, its windows revealing patrons inside, enjoying drinks and hearty meals. The sign above was simple yet inviting, marking it clearly as a tavern with a simple beer icon. Wouldnt hurt to try my luck, I said under my breath, pushing open the door. Inside, the tavern was warm and lively, with the scent of roasted meat and freshly baked bread filling the air. Wooden beams stretched across the ceiling, draped with old banners and lanterns casting a soft glow. The tables were packed with travellers and locals alike, their laughter and chatter mixing with the clinking of mugs. In the corner, a bard strummed a lute, his fingers gliding over the strings as he played a soft, melancholic tune. I approached the counter, a little hesitant, and nodded politely to the woman behind it. She had a stern face but kind eyes, and she crossed her arms as she looked me over. What happened to you? she asked, one eyebrow arching. Youre muddying up my floors. Yeah, sorry, I said, scratching the back of my neck awkwardly. Mortan said I could get cleaned up here... I, uh, dont have any gold, though. She eyed me for a moment, her expression unreadable. Mortan, huh? Hows he doing? I heard he was late today. Yeah, he ran into trouble, I explained. The village he was getting equipment from got attacked by goblins. Her eyes widened slightly, and she let out a low whistle. Goblins, that close? Thats... troubling. Yeah, I said with a nod. Its pretty bad. Whats your name, kid? she asked, leaning on the counter. Axel, maam, I replied. Phobe, she said. Alright, Axel, go down that corridor and take the second door on the left. Theres a bath in there. Get yourself cleaned up. Thank you, maam, I said, relief washing over me. As I made my way down the narrow corridor, the noise from the main room faded, replaced by the quieter hum of my own thoughts. I reached the second door, pushed it open, and stepped inside. The room was small but cozy, with a large wooden tub in the centre. Steam rose from the hot water, and a stack of clean towels sat neatly on a chair nearby. I stripped off my mud-caked clothes, tossing them to the side, and lowered myself into the tub. The hot water stung at first, then gradually eased the tension in my muscles. I let out a long breath, leaning back, closing my eyes. The grime and dirt of the past few hours seemed to melt away into the water, and for the first time in what felt like forever, I felt almost... human again. "This is good, I said, leaning my head back against the tub. Finally something positive for once. Chapter 5: Good luck I cleaned myself up as best as I could, but my clothes were still in rough shape. Washing them in the bathtub would mean waiting for them to dry, and without a spare set, that wasnt an option. So, I scrubbed out the worst of the dirt and slipped back into my school uniform, feeling at least a little more presentable. To my surprise, the soap they had was just as good as the shampoo I used back home. As I was buttoning up, I heard a knock at the door. I hurriedly pulled on my pants and cracked the door open. It was Phobe, standing there with a bundle of clothes in her hands. "Here, wear these" she said, handing them over. "Your clothes are in bad shape." Ohthank you, maam, I said, a bit taken aback by her kindness. I really appreciate it. She gave a small nod before heading back to the bar. I glanced down at the clothes shed given me. I quickly stripped off my uniform and slipped into the new outfit. The tunic was long and dark, made of a durable fabric that reached down to my mid-thigh. The trousers were simple but well-made, brown, and snug at the waist, tapering neatly down to my ankles. On my right shoulder, there was a piece of light armoursolid metal with a matte finishthat extended down my upper arm to my forearm. It was practical yet sleek, designed to offer protection while keeping flexibility. The gauntlet was reinforced but still allowed for a good grip, making sure my sword holding arm was safe as if Id swing a sword once. On my left shoulder rested a piece of brown light armour that provided some protection, from which a dark blue cape draped smoothly. I could let it hang down to conceal my entire left arm or rest it on my back, the thing wasnt hard to move with at all. After adjusting the belts and checking that everything fit properly, which took more than ten minutes since I had no idea how these old clothes worked, I stepped out of the room and went to a small mirror at the end of the corridor. I stared at my reflection: my eyes were still half-open, and my face looked as forgettable as ever. It looked like I finally returned to my roots. Shit, Ax, I muttered to myself, shaking my head slightly. You look ridiculous. I made my way back to the counter, holding my school uniform in my hands, and caught Phobes eye. She was busy pouring a beer for a patron who looked far too drunk to know which way was up. He swayed in his seat, barely managing to keep himself upright. Once she finished pouring, Phobe turned her attention to me, giving my new outfit a quick once-over. "Looks good on you," she commented, a hint of a smile forming on her lips. "It was my sons." "Thank you, maam," I said, feeling a bit awkward under her gaze. "Can I ask you something?" "Go ahead," she replied, wiping her hands on her apron as she leaned on the counter. "These, uh, the translucent boxes that appear... you know what I mean?" I fumbled, unsure of how to phrase it. She gave me a puzzled look. "Transluwhat now?" "You know, the boxes," I said, my voice trailing off as I realised how strange it must sound. "You dont have that?" You might be reading a pirated copy. Look for the official release to support the author. A faint smile tugged at the corner of her lips, almost like she was trying to hold back laughter. "Kid," she said, shaking her head gently, "you need some rest, I think." I nodded quickly, feeling my face heat up with embarrassment. "Yeah, youre probably right. Thanks again, maam. Ill be sure to repay your kindness someday." "Heh, you better," she said, her tone lightening up with a touch of humour. I left the tavern and focused on my next destination: The Guild. If I wanted to survive in this world long enough to find my way back home, I needed a roof over my head. And to get that, I had to earn some money. I didn''t know anything about this country''s economy or how much things cost, so Id have to learn as I went. Pushing open the double doors of the Guild, I took in the scene before me. The room was crowded; adventurers of all shapes and sizes gathered around long wooden tables, some nursing mugs of ale, others sharpening their weapons. A large board with papers on it dominated one wall, plastered with all sorts of quests. I shut the door behind me, taking a deep breath to steady myself before heading to the counter. Standing behind it was a burly man with a no-nonsense expression, who glanced up as I approached. "Hey," I said, doing my best to keep my voice steady. "Im here to pick up a quest." The man barely looked up from what he was doing, jerking his thumb toward the board behind me. "Boards over there. Pick a quest, rip the paper off, and bring it here." "Right. Thanks," I muttered, turning to face the quest board. As I scanned the papers pinned to it, my stomach tightened. Every quest seemed impossible: slay goblins, hunt bandits, clear out ruins. They all demanded skills I didnt have, the kind of tasks that could easily get me killed. "Hey!" the man called out, waving his hand to get my attention. "How old are you?" "Sixteen, sir," I replied, trying not to let my nervousness show. He raised an eyebrow and shook his head slightly. "In that case, youre looking at the wrong board. Those are for adults. The board next to the door is for your age group." "Oh," I said, embarrassment creeping in as I quickly turned to the other board. "Got it. Thank you." This smaller board had far fewer quests, but they were more manageabletasks like collecting flowers, carrying supplies, or looking after animals. Relief washed over me as I scanned the options. I settled on two quests: one to gather a type of flower that only bloomed at night and another to find a missing dog in a district called Forha. I ripped the quest papers off the board and handed them to the man at the counter. He glanced at the papers, then set them down. "Alright, two redama flowers, that''ll get you five silver coins. You can also pick one, thatll get you two instead of five. And finding that lost dog without a leg, thats only one gold." I nodded, trying to mask my unease. "Hmm," I grunted in acknowledgment. "Name?" he asked, grabbing a pen to jot something down. "Axel Millo." He scribbled my name on the papers and looked up at me. "Let me know when youve finished the quests. Good luck out there." "Thanks," I said, hesitating for a moment. "Uh, do you have a map by any chance? Im not sure where to find that flower." He reached under the counter, pulling out a folded map and handed it to me. "Usually, Id charge you two silver for this, but this ones on me," he said with a smirk. "Thanks, thats generous." I said with a dull voice. "By on me, I mean Ill deduct the cost from your reward when you complete the quests," he added with a knowing grin. "This isnt a charity, kid." "Still a good deal," I said, shaking my head slightly but grateful for the help. "Yeah, yeah," he replied, waving me off. "Good luck, kid. Dont get yourself killed." Chapter 6: Burn them all I sat down at a table, setting my school uniform to the side. I needed a moment to catch my breath before heading out again. I was exhausted, even if I didnt show it. More than anything, I wanted to go hometo lie in my own bed, wake up early, and get back to my normal routine. I missed my monotonous life, and Id do anything to get it back. As I thought about the translucent box that appeared earlier, I raised an eyebrow, curiosity taking over. Glancing around to make sure no one was watching, I leaned in closer, bringing my elbows to rest on the table. Translucent box thingy I muttered under my breath. How do I open that? In response, a box flickered into view in front of me. Level 1: Axel HP: [???] 70/100 Mana: [????????] -1/100 Stamina: [?] 85/100 Options: [Inv | Skills | Quests] HP? I muttered. Like health? I quickly scanned the room again to make sure no one else could see it, then cautiously reached out and tapped the "Inventory" option. The box blinked out of existence for a split second before reappearing with new information. ====================== |Inventory ====================== --------------------------- | Gold: 5 --------------------------- | [Empty] --------------------------- | [Empty] --------------------------- | [Empty] --------------------------- | [Empty] ====================== There wasnt much to seejust five gold pieces in my possession. I pressed my finger to the "Gold" slot, waiting for some reaction. Nothing happened. Sighing in frustration, I tried again, this time double-tapping it. Suddenly, a warning message flashed in front of me. ======================= |Warning ======================= | Are you sure you want | to withdraw 5 Gold? | [ Yes ] [ No ] ======================= With a cautious glance around, I tapped "Yes." A faint light glowed from my palm, and I quickly hid my hand under the dark blue cape draped over my left shoulder, hoping not to draw attention. When the light faded, I opened my hand to find five gold coins resting in my palm, each one marked with the image of a womanlikely a queen or some other figure of importance. Holy shit, I whispered, staring at the coins. Gold. Just by thinking about it, the status box reappeared in front of me again. My gaze landed on the Mana barit was at -1. Not a good sign, but I shoved the thought aside for now. I needed to focus. The story has been stolen; if detected on Amazon, report the violation. Curious about my abilities, I tapped the "Skills" option, only for another message to appear. ======================== |Warning ======================== |Currently known Skills: 0 ======================== Hmm, I muttered, rubbing my chin. How does one even learn a skill in this place? A few people nearby were beginning to give me weird looks. One man nudged his friend, gesturing toward me with a puzzled expression on his face, clearly wondering why I seemed to be interacting with thin air. Realising I was drawing unwanted attention, I grabbed my uniform, stood up, and made my way to the door. I needed to figure out this whole box situation in private if I didnt want people thinking I was crazy. Outside the Guild, I unfolded the map the man had given me, studying it closely. It showed the layout of Kinowa, the city I was currently in. According to the map, if I left through the eastern gate, I''d reach the river in about ten minutes. There was a shortcut through the forest that would cut the time down to approximately two minutes, but with the sun already gone, I wasnt keen on taking any unnecessary risks since the flower I was looking for only bloomed in darkness. Okay, I said, rolling the map back up and tucking it into my pocket. Lets do this. The streets were mostly empty, except for a few stray animals and the occasional figure closing up shop for the night. Guards patrolled the area, talking quietly amongst themselves, their hands resting on their sword hilts as if ready to respond to any threat. As I started toward the eastern gate, I draped my school uniform over my shoulder, keeping my head down. My steps echoed softly in the quiet streets. Oi, you! Make way! a guards voice barked from behind me. I immediately stepped aside, watching as the guard roughly shoved a man forwarda man with long, pointed ears and pale skin. If those games I played had taught me something, the poor man was an elf. He looked like he hadnt eaten in days, his clothes ragged and his face covered in scars and bruises. He stumbled along, looking weak and defeated. Keeping my face neutral, I kept my distance but couldnt help but watch as the guards dragged him down the street and around a corner, out of sight. A few people nearby began muttering to each other, shaking their heads. Good riddance, one of them said with a sneer. Filthy elves. Hope they hang him, another added with a twisted grin. Burn them all for what they did to us, someone else chimed in. Damn elves, muttered another, spitting on the ground. Not wanting to get involved, I kept my head down, my gaze fixed on the cobblestones as I moved. Seeing someone mistreated or facing injustice wasnt a new sight to me. This city had taught me some harsh lessons early on: keep your troubles to yourself, and always remember that good deeds often lead to consequences, while bad deeds always come with rewards. Turning the corner, I spotted the guard again, still dragging the elf. The poor man stumbled, his knees buckling, and with his hands bound in chains, he couldnt catch himself as he hit the ground face-first. The guard didnt even flinch. Instead, he kicked the elf in the head, grabbed him by the arms, and forced him back to his feet without any hint of compassion. I had no idea why the elves were hated here, nor did I have any desire to find out. Crap, I muttered under my breath. Thats harsh. I stopped to observe like the others in the crowd. The guard led the elf toward a platform that looked ominous in its simplicitya wooden structure with a raised stage, accessible by a set of ten steps. It didnt take much imagination to figure out what it was for. The platform had a trapdoor in the centre and, above it, a noose dangled, swaying slightly in the breeze. It was clearly an execution site, designed to display death like a public spectacle. The guard hauled the elf up the steps, and despite his weakened state, the elf struggled feebly, desperation plain on his face. The guards response was quick and brutala hard punch that knocked the fight out of him. Without any hesitation, the guard slipped the rope over the elfs neck, securing it tightly as the poor man stood trembling on the trapdoor. People of Kinowa! the guard shouted, his voice carrying over the murmurs of the gathering crowd. We found this rat hiding in the alleys, part of a group of vermin plotting against our city. We managed to catch this one, but he wont give up the locations of his friends. Remember, if you see elves, dont trust them. Alert the guards immediately. They are a plague, and we will cleanse Kinowa of their filth! A ripple of cheers and shouts erupted from the crowd. "Kill him!" one voice yelled. "Burn them all!" another spat out. Hang them high! The guard turned back to the elf, a twisted grin spreading across his face. "Any last words, elf?" Please! the elf begged, his voice cracking with fear. I didnt Before he could finish, the guard pulled the lever with a cold smirk, and the trapdoor swung open beneath the elf''s feet. The rope snapped tight, and with a sickening jolt, the elfs neck broke instantly. The life drained from his eyes in a heartbeat, his body swinging lifelessly before the silent crowd. Even though I kept my face impassive, I couldnt suppress the chill that ran through me. The guards ruthlessness, the crowds cheersit was all more brutal than Id ever expected. I needed to escape. There was no other way. TTTTTT?TTTTTT Chapter 7: The lost school Leaving the disturbing scene behind, I continued toward the east entrance. At one point, I got turned around, but after asking a guard for directions, I managed to get back on track. The chill in the air was noticeable, but the new clothes I wore provided just enough warmth to keep me comfortable. After about five minutes, the streets had almost cleared out, with only a few lingering passersby and the occasional patrolling guard. Most of the buildings that still had their lights on were taverns, their windows glowing faintly in the dim evening. The streetlights were simple lanternsglass cases enclosing a flickering candle inside, casting soft, uneven light that barely reached the ground below. "Scary," I muttered to myself. At this hour, I should''ve been at home, tucked under my blanket, with my laptop open, aimlessly watching something mundane on the internetnot out here hunting for some obscure flower that only bloomed at night or searching for a dog that had been missing for days. The thought of my old life made me uneasy. I desperately wanted this to be some elaborate prank or just a terrible nightmare I''d wake up from. And finally, I spotted the east entrance gate. It was smaller than the one Id used to enter the city, with a single door that stood about three or four metres tall. A lone guard stood there, his spear resting against the ground, its sharp tip pointing toward the sky. Slowing my pace, I approached, my cape draped over my left shoulder. Hello, I greeted, giving a nod. I need to go outside. And I need a chest full of gold, kid, the guard replied with a smirk. Why do you want to head out this late? I picked up a quest from the Guild, I said. Supposed to gather a flower called redama. Ah, those, he said, leaning his spear against the wall as he opened the gate. Got a torch or something? I... dont, I admitted. Well, good luck out there, then, he said with a hint of amusement. Is this your first time leaving the city? Yeah, I said. I wont go far. The flower blooms near bodies of water, right? The closest one should be about ten minutes away. Those ten minutes could stretch into ten hours if youre not careful, friend, he said, his tone dropping a bit. By the way, we caught an elf just now. Keep an eye out. If you see any of them, just run. Why? I asked, genuinely curious. Why do people hate elves? Why? He looked at me like Id just asked why the water was blue. You been living under a rock, kid? I come from another country, I said, offering a small, apologetic shrug. Sorry. Oi! another guard called out from a distance. Time to change post! Coming! the guard I was talking to responded. He turned back to me with a serious look. Good luck, kid. Dont go getting yourself killed out there. Graveyards full already. Just beyond the gate lay a clearing, a stretch of land that opened up to the wilds outside the city. The landscape unfolded into rolling fields dotted with clusters of wildflowers, their soft colours almost glowing under the dim light of the moon. Tall grass swayed in the gentle night breeze, and the occasional tree stood like silent sentinels, their branches rustling quietly. In the distance, the silhouette of a forest loomed, its edges blending into the dark horizon. A narrow dirt path cut through the open ground, leading toward the woods, where the faint shimmer of a stream could just barely be seen glistening in the moonlight. The air was cool, carrying the earthy scent of damp soil and fresh vegetation, and the quiet sounds of nocturnal creatures beginning to stir. Just before the forest, a small tavern stood welcomingly, its warm lights spilling out into the night and casting a golden glow on the surrounding area. I could hear the inviting sound of laughter and clinking mugs drifting through the open windows. Opposite the tavern, an old outhouse stood, its door creaking and swinging with each gust of wind, adding an eerie touch to the scene. A few houses with small farms were spread out in the area, similar to those near the citys main entrance, though they were smaller than them. This story has been stolen from Royal Road. If you read it on Amazon, please report it Taking a deep breath, I stepped outside and paused for a moment, watching the gate swing shut behind me. I was alone, once again. Okay I muttered to myself, glancing down the path that stretched ahead. Lets go, Ax. I pulled my phone from the pocket of my school pants that were draped over my shoulder and turned on the flashlight. Thankfully, the new phone Id recently bought was fully charged, its battery life boasting a week of usage on a single charge. Oh, technology, I muttered with a dry tone, the glow from the screen casting faint shadows across my face. Saved me once again. With a small sigh, I continued down the path, passing by the nearby tavern as my steps led me closer to the edge of the forest. But as I ventured further into the trees, my earlier courage started to drain away. The flashlight from my phone felt useless, swallowed by the creeping darkness around me, which seemed almost alive, ready to reach out and snatch me away. Every rustle in the underbrush set my nerves on edge, and the birds in the branches above stared down at me, their crimson eyes gleaming like eerie watchers in the night. My breath hitched as I halted in my tracks. Hesitation gripped me, and with a quick pivot, I retraced my steps and emerged from the woods, relief washing over me. My stomach growled, and I latched onto that excusedeciding that grabbing a meal was a perfectly reasonable diversion. Truth was, I was just stalling, finding any reason to avoid the darkness because, plain and simple, I was scared. Pocketing my phone, I pushed open the doors of the tavern. The interior was dimly lit and filled with the low hum of chatter, a few wooden tables scattered around with patrons nursing their drinks. The air smelled faintly of ale and cooked meat, a welcome change to the chilly night outside. Finding an empty table near the corner, I dropped into the chair and set my school uniform beside me. Hello, sweetie, came the voice of a waitress, her smile warm despite the lines of age on her face. She looked to be in her fifties, the type of woman who''d seen it all and then some. What can I get you? I hesitated, not entirely sure what was on the menu in this tavern. Ill just have a simple meal, I said, trying to sound casual. Alright, honey. Thatll be one silver. Fishing a gold coin from my pocket, I handed it to her. Here you go, I said, giving a small nod of thanks. She took the coin. Ill bring your nine silver with your meal, sweetie. How about a drink to go with that? Maybe a beer? Just water, please, I replied, my tone even. Water and a simple meal. Coming right up, she said, giving me a kind smile before heading off toward the counter. I watched as she leaned in to say something to the woman working there, likely placing my order. My gaze wandered around the room, stopping when I noticed something familiar hanging on the wall behind the counter. A uniform, similar to mine but older, was displayed above a painting. Curiosity sparked, and I found myself rising from my seat, drawn to it. As I approached the counter, my eyes locked onto the uniform, my eyes getting wider as I saw it up close. It was unmistakably my schools uniform, though worn and faded. On the white shirt, the number ''1930'' was embroidered in bold, italicised letters. I couldnt be mistaken, it was my schools uniform, one hundred percent. It even had the initials of our schools founders, Kara and Nina, written on the chest pocket. Shit I whispered under my breath, the weight of realisation sinking in. The lost school James was right. That fairy tale, this is 100 years ago The waitress placed a gentle hand on my shoulder, concern in her eyes. Whats the matter, honey? Couldnt wait for your meal? I blinked, snapping back to the present. Oh, no. I just I pointed vaguely at the uniform. That uniform. Its nice. What unifooh, that one? She followed my gaze and nodded, a hint of sadness showing over her face. It belonged to the tavern owner''s son. They both passed away. It was my dads, the woman behind the counter said, her voice flat, yet tinged with a trace of pride. She looked to be in her sixties, her eyes watching me with a mix of curiosity and wariness. Why do you ask? I swallowed, feeling a lump in my throat. Its good, I said quietly, not knowing what else to say. The woman raised an eyebrow, unimpressed. Thats it? Its good? You came all the way over here to say that? Yeah, I mumbled, feeling a bit foolish. Sorry for bothering you. The waitress patted my shoulder again and gave me a sympathetic smile. Its alright, sweetie. You look exhausted. Go on and sit back down. Well have you fed in no time. No worries. I nodded gratefully, muttering a soft, Yeah, before returning to my table. I sank back into the chair, a heavy sigh escaping my lips. No worries Chapter 8: Gentle one The waitress placed the plate on the table with a warm smile. It was a simple mealroasted meat with two slices of bread and some pickled vegetables. Not exactly my favourite, but Id never been a picky eater. I remembered the days when I was so poor that Id experiment with weird combinations of food just to break the monotony, like putting chocolate on cheese. Maybe thats why my taste buds were all messed up now. As I chewed the meat, my gaze drifted back to the school uniform on the wall. The story James told me about how all those people from the school went missing that eveningit wasnt just a myth. They didnt just vanish; they were teleported here, just like I was. So its possible that others were teleported here as well? I muttered under my breath, staring at my plate. The people from my class, and our biology teacher. "Did you hear about the elf they just hung? I was there to see it," a voice drifted over from a nearby table, catching my attention. "Yeah, I heard," his friend replied. "I wish I''d been there to watch." "They deserve every bit of suffering after what they did to us in the past." "You''re right," the first voice agreed, his tone darkening. "We should make them paydo even worse than what they did to us." "Exactly," the friend said with a nod. "I would''ve loved to see that elf hang. Cant believe I missed it. They caught him, then hung him like five minutes after. They sure do work fast, huh? Yeah. The guards know what theyre doing. I took another bite, leaning back in my chair as I sipped the water. I needed to focus on gathering those two weird flowers and completing the quest. I had to stay on trackotherwise, I might end up without a roof over my head tonight. The night air was cold, and I definitely didnt want to be sleeping on the streets. My eyes wandered around the room while I took another bite of the meat. A staircase led up to the rooms for rent, and with the four gold and nine silver coins in my pocket, I wondered if I could afford one for the night. My mind kept drifting back to the darkness outside, and the more I thought about it, the less appealing the idea of venturing out seemed. No choice, I whispered to myself, trying to muster up some courage. Come on, Ax. Finish your meal and get moving. Hey, mister, a young voice piped up beside me. I looked down to see a kid standing there, his eyes wide with curiosity. What happened to the side of your head? I blinked, caught off guard. "Oh..." My hand instinctively went to the scar on the left side of my heada bullet wound that prevented hair from growing there. It was a small reminder of my past, a wound caused by my mom. One night, when she was drunk, she showed me a gun she''d gotten from a friend, and it accidentally went off. The bullet just grazed me, but it was enough to leave a scar. That incident was a turning point for her; she quit drinking and got clean. If you stumble upon this narrative on Amazon, be aware that it has been stolen from Royal Road. Please report it. A monster attacked, I said with a dull tone. A big one. The kid''s eyes lit up in amazement. "Wow! So cool! I want a scar like that!" Trust me, you dont, I replied. It hurt like crazy. How did it happen? This monster was actually a gentle one. I said. But sometimes, when she got light-headed, shed do weird stuff. Hurt the people she loved the most. She? Yeah. I replied with a monotonous tone. She. Gabriel! A girl''s voice called out as she hurried over. She gently pulled the boy away from my table. What did I tell you about talking to strangers? You never listen to me, I swear! Sorry, sister, the boy mumbled, looking a bit sheepish. The girl turned to me with an apologetic smile. Im so sorry for my brother, she said, her blue eyes shining with embarrassment. Her blond hair fell in soft waves around her face, giving her a gentle yet, strangely, a determined look. Hes way too friendly for his own good. I hope he didnt bother you. I shook my head, offering her a reassuring smile. Its alright. He didnt bother me at all. Bye-bye, mister! Gabriel said, waving as they walked away. Take care, kid, I replied with a nod, watching them leave. Turning back to my meal, I noticed a light drizzle outside, the raindrops tapping against the window. A few people who had been outside were now rushing into the tavern, seeking shelter from the weather. With a sigh, I finished my last bite, placed my fork on the plate, and stood up. I put on my hoodie and took my school uniform, readying myself to step back into the night. Alright, I muttered, bracing myself. Lets do this. As I opened the door, a powerful gust of wind hit me square in the face, forcing the door to slam shut with a loud thud. I flinched, my reflexes betraying me as I nearly jumped in surprise. Trying to act casual, I straightened up and looked around, only to hear a few chuckles from the women behind me. Shoulders slumping slightly, I turned back and slouched into my chair, propping my elbow on the table and resting my chin on my palm. The waitress returned to clear the table, her hands deftly collecting the empty plate and glass. Pretty windy out there, huh? she remarked with a knowing smile. Hmm. Planning on staying here for the night? she asked, glancing at me with a hint of concern. Its a long way from the school. You should head to the city when the weather clears. Oh, I dont go to school, I said casually. She raised her eyebrows in surprise. What? Its the law here for kids your age to attend school. How else are you going to learn magic? Its the law? I repeated, frowning. Yes, it is, she nodded firmly. You didnt know that? I Im not from around here, I said, scratching the back of my neck. Im still getting used to the laws and customs. Well, now you know, she said, her voice softening. You should check out Redwood Academy first thing in the morning. Sure, I muttered, giving a half-hearted nod. Thanks for letting me know. I had no intention of attending school here; my plan was to return to my own world, even if I had no idea how. There had to be a way, right? Just as I had been teleported to this wretched place, surely there must be a path back there had to be. It simply had to exist. As the waitress walked away, I stared out at the rain intensifying outside. The wind howled, making the windows rattle slightly, a low hum echoing through the tavern. Great, I muttered to myself, leaning back in my chair. Looks like Im stuck here for the night Chapter 9: Slow and steady I remember the first time I was bullied. Hassan, a boy from my class, used to mock my expression. Hed say that my face was so forgettable, hed blink and forget what I looked like. I understood what he meant; back then, my life was a mess. My parents had split, and every time I went home, my mom was either drunk or high on drugs. I had to make my own meals and take care of myself. Life was bleak, and it showed on my faceI just didnt want to be seen, didnt want to exist. That expression, the lifeless look with half-closed eyes, stuck with me. Then came the incident where my mom accidentally shot me. That was the final straw. I thought about ending it all with that same gun, but I couldnt go through with it. I wasn''t sure if it was fear or some hidden courage that held me back. Hmm. I muttered to myself, snapping out of my thoughts. The rain outside had slowed, and the wind was finally dying down. This was my cue to head outno more excuses. I had to find that strange flower, get back to the city, and secure a place to sleep. In the morning, the search for that lost dog would begin. It all seemed straightforward on paper, but I knew it would be much harder in reality. Taking a deep breath, I stood up and opened the door. This time, there was no wind to slam it back in my face. Hey, wait up, the waitress called, hurrying over with something in her hands. You almost forgot these, kid. I turned to see her holding my school uniform. Oh, right. Thanks, I said, taking it from her. She gave me a curious look. "That uniform doesn''t look like the ones from Redwood Academy. Looks like a knock-off." "Yeah," I said, glancing at it. "Probably is." "You should get yourself the real thing. The school would give you an official one," she suggested. I hesitated for a moment, then asked, "How did these uniforms become the standard here? They look a bit different from regular clothes, no? She chuckled softly. "That''s a story for another time, kid. Youll learn all about the origins of those uniforms at Redwood Academy." "Right," I muttered, feeling the weight of everything sinking in. Thanks for everything, maam. The meal was great. Take care of yourself out there, she said with a warm smile. Have a nice evening. You too, I replied, giving her a small nod before stepping back outside into the quiet night. I began walking toward the edge of the forest, taking one last glance at it before stepping into the dense cover. As I ventured deeper, I turned on my phone''s flashlight, the beam cutting through the darkness, and picked up my pace. The dirt path wound its way through the trees, strange animal noises coming from all directions. According to the map, I''d soon reach the road on the other side. Taking a shortcut through the forest itself crossed my mind, but I quickly dismissed the ideadefinitely not an option for me. This content has been unlawfully taken from Royal Road; report any instances of this story if found elsewhere. Each step was accompanied by the crunch of fallen leaves beneath my feet, the faint light of the moon barely piercing through the canopy. My flashlight offered little reassurance, lighting up only a metre ahead. Fear gnawed at me, but I clenched my jaw and pressed on, determined to see this through. Come on, a bit longer. Finally, I broke through the other side of the trees, emerging onto the road. "Phew," I muttered, wiping the sweat from my brow. "Okay the hardest part is done." I pulled the map from my back pocket, tracing my finger over it to figure out my next steps. Once I had my bearings, I set off again, knowing that if the map was accurate, Id reach a pond in about eight or ten minutes. "Slow and steady... slow and steady," I whispered to myself, trying to calm my nerves as I continued on my way. A bird perched on a branch above me, its crimson eyes fixed on me as I moved forward, each step careful. I couldn''t shake the feeling that something was lurking in the shadows, some creature that retreated just beyond the reach of my flashlight whenever the beam swept over it. Paranoia crept in, and after a couple of tense minutes, my phone gave a warningit had been using the flashlight too long and suddenly shut it off. Those ten seconds it took me to unlock the screen and turn the light back on felt like an eternity. Swallowing hard, I resumed walking, my pace quickening despite my best efforts to stay calm. I kept repeating to myself that I was alone, that no monster was stalking me in the darkness. "Come on, Ax," I whispered under my breath. "Slow and steady..." TTTTTT?TTTTTT I tried to focus on keeping my steps steady, but with every unfamiliar noise, I''d stop and glance back over my shoulder, reassuring myself I was still alone. At one point, I paused on the side of the road, sitting on a rock to catch my breath. I checked the map again, confirming I was heading in the right direction. The faint lights of a small village near the pond glowed in the distance, guiding me like a beacon. I stood on a cliff''s edge, where a wrong step would mean a steep fall into the churning sea below. Waves crashed against the rock face, sending up a spray that mingled with the light drizzle of rain. The forest loomed behind me, and the path I needed to take stretched out to my right. "Okay... just a little more, Ax," I said, trying to steady my nerves. Entering the forest once again, I pushed forward, navigating the trees that seemed to blur into one another in the dim light. My heart raced as I searched for the pond shown on the map, weaving through the underbrush until, finally, I spotted it. Relief washed over me when I saw the flowers glowing in the darkness, their bright pink petals shimmering with an otherworldly light. The flower was unlike anything I''d ever seen. Its petals seemed to pulse softly, emitting a subtle glow that illuminated the area around it. Tiny sparks of light danced across its surface, almost like fireflies trapped within the petals. The stem was twisted with veins of iridescent blue, and from its center came a low, vibrating hum, like the kind of noise that lingers in your ears after listening to loud music. As I reached out my hand, the hum grew louder, resonating through the air. "Finally," I breathed out. "Good..." Just as I grasped the flower, a sudden jolt of pain shot through my hand. A sharp, blade-like structure hidden within the petals pierced my palm, drawing blood. I let out a scream, trying to pull my hand away, but the flower''s grip was iron-tight. The pain was unbearable, searing through my senses, and then the flower let out a piercing shriek, almost like the cry of a woman in distress. From the darkness, red eyes began to appeardozens of themclosing in on me with slow movements. My vision started to blur from the blood loss, and I felt light-headed, my strength waning fast. "Oh no," I whispered, eyes wide with fear as the creatures drew nearer. "No, no, no!" Chapter 10: Unyielding as iron I couldnt move; that little flower had me in its grip. I tried to rip it from its roots, but it was as unyielding as iron, impossible to escape. The red eyes drew closer, and when I mustered up courage and looked at them, I finally saw what I was dealing with. They were twisted beings, almost human-like in form, with two legs and two arms, but their faces were blank slatesno eyes, no nose, no mouth. Their hands ended in razor-sharp fingers that looked more like claws, capable of slicing through anything they touched. Their skin was rough and brown, like corroded metal. Come on, come on, come on I pulled against the flower''s hold, each movement sending a fresh wave of agony through my palm. The blade that had pierced my hand remained embedded, with blood dripping from both sides. I couldn''t tell if the dizziness washing over me was from the pain or the blood loss, but I knew I wouldn''t last much longer. One of the creatures reached me, looming over me at least two metres tall. Its faceless head tilted downward, probably staring at me. My pulse quickened, my attempts to break free becoming more desperate. "Oh, crap," I muttered, frozen in fear. As a last-ditch effort, I grabbed my phone from the ground and shined the flashlight directly at the creature. To my surprise, it disintegrated instantly, the particles scattering into the air like dust. Gasping, I redirected my focus to the flower, frantically trying to kick and shake it free from my hand. No matter what I did, it held tight. I snapped my head toward the next closest creature and flashed my phone''s light at it, causing it to vanish just as quickly. But then, my phone''s screen lit up with a warningit was overheating, and the flashlight would automatically shut off in ten seconds. Panic surged through me as I desperately kicked the flower again, struggling to pull my hand away. Damn it! Come on! Let me go! One of the creatures crept up behind me, and in the struggle, my phone deactivated its flashlight on its own to prevent it from overheating. The creature''s massive hands wrapped around my waist, squeezing with a vice-like grip. I kicked at its arms and thrashed on the ground, but my blows seemed as effective as hitting a steel wall with a pillow. Desperate, I grabbed a large rock with my free hand and hurled it at the creature''s head. It staggered back, letting out a strange, guttural sound, but after a moment, it shook off the impact and tightened its grip, crushing the air out of my lungs. Ten more seconds like that, and my insides would be on the outside. I felt myself weakening by the second, my vision fading into darkness as I neared the brink of unconsciousness. Ugh, no. No, no I can''t Just then, the flashlight flickered back on, its beam cutting through the darkness. I snatched the phone and aimed the light directly at the creature. In an instant, it dissolved into dust, releasing me from its hold. I gasped for breath, my chest heaving as I realised how close I''d come to losing everything. If you stumble upon this tale on Amazon, it''s taken without the author''s consent. Report it. That was way too close, I muttered, my voice shaky as I tried to steady myself. Ugh crap. More of them were closing in, and I doubted I could stand there, holding my flashlight every time they approached. I had to think of a solution fast, or Id be screwed. Just when I thought I was done for, the flower finally loosened its grip on my hand. I wasnt prepared for the sudden release, and I stumbled backward, losing my footing on the muddy slope. I tumbled down, rolling in the dirt, trying to grab at the slick ground to stop myself, but it was useless. After a few chaotic seconds, I slammed into a tree with a thud, wincing in pain. Agh crap. Ugh. Level 1: Axel HP: [??????] 45/100 Mana: [????????] -1/100 Stamina: [??] 70/100 Options: [Inv | Skills | Quests] The translucent box appeared before me, showing my HP had dropped to 45. I let out a shaky breath, struggling to get to my feet. The screams had finally stopped, and the creatures with glowing eyes had vanished into the darkness. I put one knee on the ground, gripping my shoulder, trying to catch my breath. I was alive, but barely. A small wooden splinter was lodged in my leg. Though it wasnt deep, it hurt like hell, and with the cut on my palm, the pain was making me dizzy. I needed to find help, and fast. Great I muttered, gritting my teeth as I pulled the splinter out. Just great. Shit. I started limping in the opposite direction, but then it hit meId left my phone near the flower, its flashlight still casting the only bit of light I had. I hesitated, weighing my options. Running away sounded appealing, but battered and disoriented, I didnt trust myself to navigate the pitch-black darkness without a light source. Id surely get lost and make everything worse for myself. Sighing in frustration, I turned around and began climbing back up the slope. It looked like the monsters disappeared the moment the flower''s scream stopped, so I hoped it was safe to retrieve my phone now. Fuck fuck me, I muttered under my breath as I reached the top of the slope. I took a quick look around to make sure everything was clear before inching closer to my phone. Its light was the only thing piercing through the darkness, about ten or twenty metres away. In the dim light, I tripped on a rock and nearly fell, but managed to catch myself. Then, I hurried over to the phone, reaching down to grab it. Phew, I exhaled, pocketing the phone. Okay thats done. The flower lay on the ground, seemingly dead but still glowing faintly pink. I cautiously nudged it with my foot, half expecting something to jump out. When nothing happened, I rolled it around with my shoe to make sure it was completely detached from its roots. Then, carefully, I used my phone to scoop it up, using the screen to lift it off the ground. No way was I touching it with my bare hands again. Once I had the flower secured, I slipped it into my pocket, taking a moment to breathe and gaze up at the sky. It was over; now all I needed was a good nights sleep. Man, that was way too close, I whispered to myself. Alright, time to to get out of here. Chapter 11: Out for a quest Trees blurred together as I stumbled through the dense forest, feeling like I''d passed the same twisted trunk at least three times. I was hopelessly lost, disoriented in the maze of trees that seemed to stretch endlessly in every direction. Somehow, Id missed the edge of the forest, the one that was supposed to lead me to the dirt road. Instead, I was swallowed by the wilderness, my path becoming more confusing with each step. To make things worse, my phones flashlight kept shutting off to cool down, leaving me in darkness for what felt like eternity. I leaned against a sturdy tree, my hands on my knees, gasping for breath. My wounds stung, my chest ached with every breath, and the exhaustion was seeping into my bones. It was like a never-ending nightmare, one I couldnt wake up from. Ah I exhaled shakily. Okay, okay, calm down. Where did I come from here? I spun in place, desperately searching for something recognizable, but everything looked the same. It felt like the forest was swallowing me whole. Finally, too drained to stand, I sank to the ground, my back resting against the rough bark of the tree, and switched off my phones flashlight to give it a break. I pulled out the map I''d gotten from the Guild, squinting at its worn surface. It didnt have a handy You Are Here marker, and I couldnt make sense of my position among the maze of trees. Great, I muttered under my breath. Shit I even lost my school uniform. Then, a thought hit methe translucent box had mentioned something about a map update after I entered Kinowa. My hope flickered to life as I stood up, took a deep breath, and called out, Open map? To my relief, the translucent box appeared again, this time displaying a detailed map in front of me. It was far more advanced than the paper map I''d been holding. Icons marked specific areas, showing where different animals could be found. Directly at my current location, marked with a bright red X, there was an image of a bear. A little to the north, the map indicated deer, and further on was a creature I couldnt recognizeit had the body of a wolf but was covered in scales, with elongated limbs and a serpent-like tail. Its presence on the map made it clear that it wasn''t an ordinary forest animal. Not too far from my position, the map displayed a city encircled by towering walls, labeled "Kinowa." Hope sparked in my chest as I realized that I might be close to civilization. When I took a few steps, the X on the map shifted with me, indicating my movements. Yes thank you, mysterious box thingy, I whispered with a dull voice. Determined to reach Kinowa, I straightened up and began to walk in that direction, following the map''s guidance as it tracked my steps. TTTTTT?TTTTTT Emerging from the forest, I spotted the familiar sight of the tavern with the school uniform hanging on its wall. Wiping the cold sweat off my brow, I picked up my pace, heading toward the eastern entrance. Relief washed over meI was finally out. Id almost lost my life for a strange flower that I didnt even know the purpose of. Reaching the gate, I knocked firmly and took a step back. A small peephole slid open, and a guard''s eyes peered out, examining me. "Who goes there?" he asked, his voice gruff. "Im... Im Axel," I replied, still catching my breath. "I was out for a quest." "Anyone with you?" He squinted at me. "No, sir," I said, shaking my head. With a nod, he closed the peephole, and the gate creaked open just enough for me to slip through. My legs wobbled as I stumbled inside, the guard watching me with a raised eyebrow. He secured the gate with a heavy clank, then grabbed his spear from the wall and returned to his post. This tale has been unlawfully lifted without the author''s consent. Report any appearances on Amazon. "What happened to you, boy?" he asked, his gaze lingering on my torn and bloodied hand. "I... tried to pick a flower. Redama redema? But it got me," I said, my voice hoarse. "Got you?" He let out a short chuckle, shaking his head. "Even my five-year-old daughter knows you dont just grab redama like that. You use a fire spell to make it close its petals first, then you pick it up." "Oh," I muttered, feeling foolish. "Well noted." The guard gave me a pitying look but said nothing more, and I nodded at him in thanks before turning toward the Guild. My mind was set on one thing: ending this day. I needed a warm bed, a place to sleep, and to forget about everything that just happened. As I made my way down the street, I caught sight of the elfs body still hanging by that rope. A crude sign was nailed to her chest, reading, "Death to all elves," scrawled in rough letters. A few crows perched on the body, their crimson eyes glinting in the dim light. My stomach turned at the sight, and I forced myself to look away. This world felt harsher and more brutal with each passing moment, and I knew I had to find a way back to my monotonous lifethe life I actually understood. Reachinf the Guild, I opened the door and I trudged up to the counter, where the man behind it barely glanced at me before returning to his book. But when he finally noticed my disheveled state, he raised an eyebrow. "Done," I said, dropping the flower onto the counter. My voice came out as a tired croak. "What happened to you?" he asked, his gaze shifting to my bloodied hand. "You look like youve been through hell." "That flower," I muttered, pointing at it. "It nearly killed me when I tried to pick it with bare hands." He gave me a sympathetic nod and pulled out two silver coins from under the counter. "Here. We offer healing services for one silver if you need it. Looks like you could use it." I didnt hesitate. "Yeah, sure," I said, handing back one of the coins. "Head through that door," he said, pointing to a nearby room. "A healer will be with you shortly. Oh and I wont charge you for that map. Dont worry. Hmm. Thanks. With a weak nod, I dragged myself to the door, feeling the eyes of the Guild members on me as I walked past. I stepped inside and closed the door behind me, finding a simple room with nothing but a small bed and a wardrobe. The window showed the quiet street outside, where only two guards patrolled. I sat on the bed, exhaustion pulling at my limbs. A few minutes later, the door opened, and a man with a gentle smile entered. "Hello," he said, his voice calm and soothing. "Lets take a look at that wound." He took my hand, inspecting the damage. The flowers blade had pierced straight through my palm, and seeing it up close made my stomach churn. He chanted softly under his breath, and a faint green light glowed in his hands as he began to heal me. I winced, feeling the strange warmth spreading through my hand. "Thats... a healing spell?" I asked, eyes wide. "Yep," he replied, focused on his work. "First time seeing one?" "Y-yeah," I stammered. The wound on my palm closed slowly, though the ache lingered. After a few moments, he crouched down to check my leg, where the wooden splinter had pierced me. His eyes glowed with the same green light as he expertly pinpointed the injury. "How did you know?" I asked, surprised. "Where my injuries were, I mean." He smiled slightly, showing his glowing eyes. "High-level spell. Lets me see injuries clear as day." "Oh," I muttered, feeling slightly awestruck. He repeated the healing process on my leg, then stood up, pulling off his gloves and tucking them into his pocket. "You''re a student at Redwood Academy, right?" he asked, a hint of curiosity in his tone. "N-no," I said, shaking my head. "Im not a student there." "Really?" His eyebrows arched in surprise. "Its illegal to be wandering around without attending the academy at your age, you know." "Yeah," I said, nodding, trying to keep my expression neutral. "Ill look into it." "Good," he replied, giving me a firm nod. "And rememberdont touch redama with bare hands again, or youll be poisoned and start seeing things that arent really there." "What?" I asked, stunned. "You mean the monsters I sawthey werent real?" "Yep," he said with a grin. "Just hallucinations. Redama does that to you if you mess with it wrong. Makes you see your worst fears." I shook my head in disbelief. "It all felt so real." "That''s how it works," he said, patting my shoulder. "Take care, kid." I left the room with a sigh, feeling the lingering pain but grateful for the healer''s help. As I exited the Guild and stepped onto the street, I made up my mind to find The Diamond Eyes tavern, like the coachman had suggested. I needed somewhere warm to stay, somewhere that didnt feel as hostile as this world. Ugh I muttered to myself, limping slightly. Wounds are healed, but the pains still there. Even though the injuries were closed up, every step sent a jolt of pain through my leg. And my handit still refused to form a proper fist after that flowers attack. One thing was clear: this world wasnt pulling any punches. Chapter 12: Barely Opening the doors of the tavern, I made my way to the counter, giving a nod to the woman behind it. She had just finished pouring a drink for another customer, wiping her hands on her apron before turning her attention to me. The evening outside was growing darker, with the rain intensifyinga heavy, relentless downpour. But at least I was safe now, surrounded by these walls, away from the threat of monsters lurking in the wilderness. "You''re alive," Phobe remarked, eyeing my battered state. "Barely so, huh?" "Yeah," I said, my voice barely more than a mutter. "Uh, how much for a room?" "Three silver," she replied. "Its got a bed and a chest for your belongings. No meals included, though." I nodded, digging into my pocket and placing a silver coin on the counter. She took it, crouched down to grab a key from beneath the counter, and handed it to me. The key was simple, with a small tag that read "3," marking the room number. I pocketed the key and let out a sigh, a sense of relief washing over me. Finally, a moment to rest wasnt too far away. "Thanks," I said. "Upstairs, right?" "Yep," she confirmed with a quick nod. Grunting in acknowledgment, I headed toward the stairs. The corridor I entered was narrow and dimly lit, with the brown wooden walls showing signs of wear and age. Faded patterns on the wallpaper suggested this place had seen better days. A few flickering candles were mounted on the walls, casting a warm but uneven glow that made shadows dance across the floor. The wooden planks creaked slightly under my weight as I moved forward, the smell of old timber mixing with the faint scent of burning wax. Finding the door marked with a "3," I inserted the key and turned it, pushing the door open. The room was as plain as promiseda single bed pressed against the right wall, a simple chest to the left, and a window in the centre that overlooked the rain-swept street. Next to the window sat an unlit candle in a small glass holder, its wick untouched. Without bothering to remove my armour or gauntlet, I kicked off my shoes and sank into the bed, eyes shutting as soon as my head hit the pillow. The ache in my body from the day''s ordeals was still there, but at least I was warm and safe. I opened my eyes halfway, staring at the ceiling. It was still hard to believe that all of this was real. A flower had nearly killed mehow ridiculous was that? I wasnt meant for this world, no way. "What a hassle," I mumbled to myself. "Let this all just be a nightmare." Restless, I rolled over in the bed a few times, finally giving up and walking to the window. The heavy rain tapping on the glass was the only sound that filled the room, mixing with the faint, muffled voices of patrons downstairs. Sleep had never come easy to me; insomnia was a constant companion, and now, with all this chaos, it seemed even more elusive. Out of curiosity, I got up and opened the chest in the room. Seeing it up close was oddit looked just like the ones youd find in video games. I stared at it for a moment, feeling a strange mix of familiarity and absurdity. "Too bad I have nothing to put in," I said, shaking my head. As if summoned by my thoughts, the translucent box appeared in front of me again: Level 1: Axel HP: [???] 70/100 Mana: [????????] -1/100 Unauthorized usage: this tale is on Amazon without the author''s consent. Report any sightings. Stamina: [??] 75/100 Options: [Inv | Skills | Quests] Seeing my stats laid out like thatespecially the negative manafelt surreal. This whole experience was too much like the games James used to make me play, only this time, it wasnt a game. I lay back on the bed once more, rolling to one side, then the other, staring at the ceiling. Sleep just wouldn''t come. At one point, I even left the room, pacing the corridor from end to end several times. It didn''t help. Back in my world, Id just take a diazepam pill, and that would be that. "Man... can''t sleep," I muttered to myself, frustration creeping into my voice. Finally, after what felt like an eternity, sleep began to claim me. The sound of the heavy rain tapping on the window seemed to soothe my restless mind, pulling me into a deep, much-needed slumber. At last, this wretched day had come to an end. TTTTTT?TTTTTT I always had these kinds of nightmares; they never missed a night. This one was a memory from when I was maybe eight or nine, back in my living room. After my sister, Kaira, died from an illness called nebulitis, my mother became paranoid. She was convinced that every little thing could lead to sickness. Every day, she''d give me different pills, insisting theyd keep me healthy and safe. In reality, those pills were ruining me, both physically and mentally. I could barely keep my eyes open in class, always drowsy, always exhausted. The constant stomach aches were just the cherry on top. In the nightmare, my mother would come home from work and force a pill into my hand, telling me to take it. Shed pat my head like she was doing something good, like she was protecting me. Then, out of nowhere, she''d pull a gun from her pocket. Shed say it was for our safety, to protect us from burglars, because she had these twisted dreams where I was kidnapped. As she was showing me the gun, it accidentally went off, shooting me right in the head. Thats when Id wake upevery time. I opened my eyes, heart pounding, the memory of that nightmare still fresh in my mind. I took a deep breath, staring at the ceiling before covering my face with my hands. I sat up slowly, trying to shake off the lingering unease. Judging by the light streaming through the window, it was probably around eight or nine in the morning. Okay I muttered, pulling my shoes on. Im still alive. Thats a good sign. I opened the door to my room and made my way downstairs. The common area was bustling with people having breakfast, waitresses weaving between tables, and cleaning up the empty ones. Sunlight poured in through the windows, and the fresh scent of rain lingered in the air, now replaced with a bright, clear morning. "Sleeping princess is awake," Phoebe called out with a smirk from behind the counter. "Did you have a good sleep?" I grunted in response, still groggy from both the nightmare and the restless night. "Are you hungry?" "How much for breakfast?" I asked as I walked toward her. "One silver," she replied. "Great," I said, sitting down at a nearby table. "Ill take one." "Sure thing. A simple meal comin'' right up," she said, giving a quick nod before heading off to prepare it. I pulled out all my coins and laid them on the table, counting them. Buying breakfast left me with four gold and six silver coins. I could survive a few days with that amount, but then what? I''d have to start taking quests again, doing all sorts of nonsense just to keep myself fed and sheltered. Back in my world, it wasnt that differentI was always working hard just to pay the rent. But at least I didnt have creatures lurking in the shadows, waiting to pounce. After a short wait, Phoebe returned with my plate, setting it down with a friendly smile before heading back to the counter. I picked up the fork and took the first bite of my meal, staring out the window. It was all too realI was truly in a different world. "Man" I sighed. The porridge was plain, but I wasnt one to complain. Id come from a life where hunger was a constant companion, so I could appreciate even the blandest meal. I took another bite, then leaned back in my chair, slipping my coins back into my pocket. No point in tempting any would-be thieves. That mysterious translucent box thingy had at least given me five coins for completing a task, which was a lifesaver. I couldnt help but wonder if I could find another quest from that thing, maybe earn a few more coins to keep me going. Taking the last bite of my meal, I thanked Phobe and left the tavern, breathing in the fresh air. Hmm. I muttered. Now, onto the second quest; finding that dog. Chapter 13: Died easily Karmak District was quite a trek, according to the map. The quest paper mentioned that the dog was last seen there, supposedly playing with a cat. It had a distinct appearance, having lost a leg as a pup, which made me think it wouldnt be too hard to spot and bring back to the Guild. As I made my way there, I had to pass the execution site. The elf from before still hung from the gallows, swinging lifelessly. Passersby gathered around, their expressions filled with disdainnot because of the execution itself, but because the victim was an elf, as if his mere existence was a disease. "He died easily," a woman remarked, her voice almost disappointed. "Yeah, I wish I''d seen it," her friend added with a casual shrug. "Missed it cause I was tucking my kids into bed." "Rot in hell, you piece of trash," a man spat, his eyes burning with a deep-seated hatred. I clenched my jaw, forcing myself to look away. "Glad I dont have pointy ears like my biology teacher," I muttered under my breath. Up ahead, I spotted a group of students about my age, wearing uniforms that were oddly familiarlike the ones from my old school, though somehow more refined. The boys wore white shirts, ties, dark blue blazers, and black trousers. The girls wore similar outfits, but with skirts and knee-high socks. The sight made me feel even more out of place, standing there in my travel-worn clothes, clearly not one of them. Ugh, one of the students groaned, dragging his feet. I didnt do my math homework. Wait, we had homework? his friend blurted out, eyes wide with panic. Yeah, dude! Didnt you know? Nah, crap! Thats the fifth time Im showing up empty-handed. The teachers gonna kill me. I let out a grunt. "This world has math too? End me." As if on cue, the universe decided to challenge me further. I checked the map, making sure I was headed in the right direction. When I looked up, my breath caught in my throat. A creatureno, a personwas walking straight toward me. She looked mostly human but had two horns protruding from her head, her crimson eyes glinting as they caught the light. Her skin was a shade of red that almost seemed pink, and two wings rested on her back, shifting slightly with each step. She wore the same school uniform as the other students. I froze in place, the map slipping from my hand. For a solid ten seconds, I couldnt move, my body paralyzed by fear. Then, as if I didnt even exist, the girl brushed past me without a second glance. Everyone around acted like she was the most ordinary thing in the world. What? I muttered, confusion washing over me. "Oi!" came a sharp voice from behind, snapping me out of my daze. Huh? I turned slowly to find the horned girl glaring at me, her eyes narrowing. "Whatre you staring at?" "Me?" I asked, pointing at myself dumbly. "Yeah, you. Never seen a Noxivera before or what?" This story is posted elsewhere by the author. Help them out by reading the authentic version. I kept my face neutral. "No, actually. Never seen one." She raised an eyebrow, crossing her arms. "Youre taking me for a fool now? "Im from a different country," I said quickly, keeping my tone even. "We dont have NoxiNoxiveras there. Sorry." She studied me for a moment, her gaze piercing. Then, with a dismissive huff, she turned back around. "Whatever," she muttered, walking away. I let out a breath I didnt realize Id been holding. This world was getting stranger by the minute, and I was in way over my head. I had to find a way out of here, somehow. The memory of that eyeball in the sky haunted me, the one that had appeared before everything went dark. Maybe if I could learn more about that thing, Id have a clue on how to get back home. And where else to gather knowledge in a world like this but a school? Redwood Academy. Maybe attending wasn''t such a ridiculous idea after all. Shaking off the thought for now, I continued on my path toward the district, reminding myself of the task at hand. There was still a legless dog waiting for me to find it. "Noxi Noxivera?" I whispered to myself, taking the map off the ground. "What a mess. What. A. Mess." TTTTTT?TTTTTT Karmak District was unlike the place Id come from. The narrow streets buzzed with life, lined with food vendors on nearly every corner. The scent of spices, grilled meats, and fresh bread intermingled in the air, creating a unique blend that somehow managed to be both strange and enticing. The absence of carriages made sense here; the streets were too tight, their cobblestones uneven and not designed for wheeled traffic. The buildings seemed like theyd weathered countless storms, their surfaces cracked and faded. Nature had claimed a victory in this part of the citymoss and greenery covered almost every wall, creeping up from the ground to drape over window sills and rooftops. Vines twisted around wooden beams, and patches of grass grew stubbornly in the gaps between the cobblestones. It was as if this district was a small village where people would go for a holiday or something. I stopped in front of a tavern, its wooden tables set outside where patrons were already indulging in their breakfast and morning drinks. Taking a breath, I pushed open the creaky double doors and stepped inside. The interior of the tavern felt worn and tired, its wooden beams darkened from age and years of smoke. The floors were scuffed, with patches of mismatched planks filling in where the old ones had given way. Welcome, a waitress greeted me, glancing up from wiping down the counter. Were full right now. Only got seating outside. Hey, I said, stepping closer. Im looking for a dog. A dog with only three legs. Its name is Borado. Have you seen it around? She paused, tapping her chin thoughtfully. Yeah. We took that mut in, she was bleeding from her head. Bleeding? Yeah, she was attacked. We dont know by whom, though. We tried to take care of her but she died. Oh shame. Okay. Thanks for letting me know. I replied with a dull voice. Im sorry for your loss, kid. She said, Im sure she was a good girl. She wasnt my dog. I explained. Anyways, thanks again. By the way, how old are you? Shouldnt you be in school or something? Her question caught me off guard. I am on my way there, I lied smoothly. Just thought Id ask about the dog before I headed over. She raised an eyebrow, clearly sceptical. And your uniform? Its wet, I answered, trying to sound nonchalant. Forgot to bring it inside last night, so it got soaked in the rain. Oh, I see, she said, nodding slowly. Well, was there anything else? No. Thank you, maam. Have a nice day. You too, hun. I stepped back outside, a mix of relief and irritation swirling in my chest. This worlds obsession with enforcing school attendance was a problem I didnt need. If my plan wasnt to escape this place as soon as possible, maybe Id consider playing by their rules. But for now, I had bigger issues to deal with than fitting in. She was attacked, huh. I muttered. By whom, I wonder. Chapter 14: Minus one I began to make my way toward the Guild to report that the dog was dead and wrap up the quest. It was disappointing not to get paid, but it couldve been worse. At least I wasn''t dealing with hallucinations from some bizarre flower attack. As I walked, I noticed two students nearby casting spells. One had fire flickering in her palm, while the other shaped water into intricate forms. The sight of magic being used so casually was surreal, like it was just another regular Thursday for them. Level 1: Axel HP: [????] 60/100 Mana: [????????] -1/100 Stamina: [??] 70/100 Options: [Inv | Skills | Quests] I stared at the translucent box that appeared in front of me, my mana still in the negatives. If spellcasting required mana, which I was sure it did, I was out of luck. Negative oneprobably the lowest level imaginable. I couldnt help but smirk bitterly. "Minus one," I muttered under my breath, shaking my head. "What a joke. The streets were full of activity; people went about their routines, while some of the homeless folks Id seen earlier now looked sickly, with red noses and coughs. A few volunteer healers were moving among them, casting spells to alleviate their ailments. Watching them work, I realised just how little I knew about this world''s magic. Memories of my childhood came rushing backwhen Id make up imaginary battles by myself since I had no friends. I''d pretend to save a princess, swinging an invisible sword or casting spells in my bedroom. The old me, the one who still had hope, wouldve probably loved this world. Save the princess, huh? I muttered to myself with a dull voice. What a fool I was back then. TTTTTT?TTTTTT Arriving at the Guild, I walked in and nodded to the man behind the counter. He looked up from his book, eyebrows raised, waiting for me to speak. Hey, I began, rubbing the back of my neck. I couldnt complete the quest. The dogit didnt make it. Something attacked her. Ah, thats a shame, he said, sighing as he closed his book. "Gabriels gonna be heartbroken. He was holding onto hope." The name sounded familiar, but I didnt dwell on it. I just gave a small nod as the man reached for the quest paper and tore it in half. "Well, anything else? We''ve got new jobs on the board if youre interested." Maybe later, I replied. Alright then, take care, kid, he said, waving me off. I stepped outside, taking in a deep breath. The sky was clear, and though I had enough money for now, I needed a plan. If I wanted to survive in this world long enough to find a way back home, Id have to learn how to defend myself. Weapons like daggers or swords crossed my mind, though fighting was never really my thing. Back in my world, I always preferred to avoid confrontation whenever possible. If you stumble upon this narrative on Amazon, be aware that it has been stolen from Royal Road. Please report it. Deciding it was time to at least get a basic weapon just in case, I headed toward Mortans blacksmith shop, recalling the directions hed given me. Luckily, it was fairly close. Changing my direction, I made my way toward the main gates. The guards stationed there gave me side-eye glances, their eyes narrowing slightly as if questioning why I wasnt in a school uniform like the other kids my age. Thankfully, none of them confronted me about it; the last thing I needed was to explain my situation. I was pretty sure, Hey, I came here from another world, and Im just trying to find my way back, dont mind me please, wouldnt fly as a valid excuse. Descending the stone steps, I finally reached Mortan''s blacksmith shop. He was sitting on a sturdy wooden bench, using a large grinding wheel operated by a foot pedal. His leg moved rhythmically, powering the rotating stone as he pressed a sword against it. Sparks flew in a shower of orange and gold, casting flickering light across his face and the blade. The grinding wheel itself was massive, mounted on a frame of weathered wood with metal reinforcements, looking like it had seen years of use but still turned with smooth precision. Mortan''s hands were steady, guiding the blade at just the right angle to sharpen it without damaging the steel. Ah, hey, Axel, Mortan greeted, glancing up from his work. Morning, lad. You look rough. Morning, I replied, nodding in acknowledgement. How are you? Same old, same old. How about you? Howre you finding the city? he asked, switching to another blade. A thing of beauty, isnt it? Its disgusting, I said bluntly. Then, hesitating for a second, I added, Hey, do you know where I could learn about magic in this world? He looked at me with a smirk. World, huh? Youre talkin like youre from another world. Oh, right. I mean, where I come from, its forbidden to learn magic. They were, well, they were a bit strict about the rules. I said, making the lie sound as natural as possible. Here is---like its like a new world for me. Mortan raised an eyebrow but didnt press further. Well, if youre serious about it, start with Redwood Academy. I shook my head. Im not here to become a student. Any other options? He chuckled. You might wanna reconsider. Every student gets a free room until they graduate. The thought of buying a dagger for my safety disappeared. And also, attending school in this strange world didnt sound unnecessary to me. My eyes widened slightly, barely noticeable. Free room? Yep. Meals, bathsthe whole deal. He said. You also didnt know that, huh? Wheres this Redwood Academy? I asked, trying to keep my excitement in check. Just follow the kids in the uniforms, he said, pointing to a group nearby. Theyre headed there now. I paused, then hesitated before asking, Hmm---okay. So, lets say I have -1 mana. What does that even mean? I cant cast any spells? Mortan gave a small laugh. Manas not something you can count like coins. Its spiritual energy, kid. Youd need to talk to someone with more knowledge on the subject. I nodded, feeling a bit foolish. Right. Thanks for the info. Mortan looked at me a moment longer. Youre, uh, youre not mad about me not taking you in, are ya? I shrugged. Nah, if I were you, I wouldnt have helped me either. Taking me in the forest was more than enough. He gave a small smile. Fair enough, boy. Fair enough. Well, I said, nodding, looks like Im off to Redwood then. Good luck, kid. Im sure youll fit in eventually, he said, with a wink. Chapter 15: Inhumane Exchanging goodbyes, I left Mortan''s blacksmith shop and started to trail a group of students wearing the Redwood Academy uniforms. The thought of attending a school in this world made me feel uneasy, but I didnt have much of a choice. If I wanted a roof over my head and food in my stomach, I had to go along with it. Besides, understanding how magic worked could end up being useful. If I could learn even the basics, maybe there''d be a chance for me to cast spells somedayassuming my negative mana situation ever improved. As we neared the execution site, I noticed that the elf''s body had finally been taken down. The gruesome sight was gone, but the air still felt heavy with hostility. Whatever the elves had done in the past, it was clear that now, even the innocent were paying the price for their actions. Human resentment towards them was strong, and the prejudice ran deep. Did you hear about the elf? said a girl in the group I was following. Her voice was low but troubled. It was so brutal. They dont deserve this. Shh! her friend quickly warned, glancing around nervously. Others will hear you. Just keep quiet. I know, I know. Its just...you know? Its so wrong. So inhumane, the girl insisted, shaking her head slightly. Well, another boy from the group chimed in with a smirk, its not inhumane if they arent human, right? The girl frowned. Is being racist the new trend or something? We shouldnt be hanging someone just because theyre a different race. You remember the story, dont you? the boy replied, his tone growing darker. How the elves attacked that villagekilled the men, took the women and children, raped them to death, and then left their bodies hanging as a message. You think they dont deserve worse than what they got? Even the kids, another student added, a trace of disgust in his voice. Whats wrong with those monsters? They always acted like they were better than us, the boy continued, his eyes narrowing. Thought they were high and mighty. Well make sure they learn their place. Wow, I muttered under my breath, my voice almost a sigh. Real pieces of work. I wonder what sparked this conflict in the first place The more I listened, the more I realised that hatred ran deep on both sides. Whatever history lay between humans and elves, it was a wound that hadnt healed and probably never would. The students took one last glance at the execution site before turning right, and I followed them. At some point, I lost track of them, but it didn''t matter much since more students were filling the streets. Wherever this Redwood Academy was, it seemed to be far from the main entrance of the city. As I walked, the scenery began to change; the houses on either side of the street became less frequent, replaced by a surge of greenery. The trees stood taller, their leaves looking vibrant and full of life, and the sunlight seemed to shine more brightly, casting a warm glow over everything. The flowers and foliage appeared almost as if they were glowing, the colours rich and intense. =================== NOTIFICATION =================== * Location Discovered: Redwood Academy * Map Updated! -------------------------------- + XP Gained: 10 -------------------------------- | Current XP: 40 / 100 -------------------------------- | Progress: ??????? ========================= Turning the final corner, I found myself face-to-face with Redwood Academy. It was impossible to overlook; the building stood proudly, a blend of grandeur and history. The iron gates at the entrance were tall and sturdy, opening into a wide, welcoming courtyard. Cobblestone pathways crisscrossed the space, weaving between flowerbeds bursting with colourroses, daisies, and lavender all mixed in a riot of hues. Tall, ancient trees with thick trunks stood guard over the garden, their branches stretching out like open arms, creating dappled patches of shade beneath which students gathered. If you discover this tale on Amazon, be aware that it has been stolen. Please report the violation. Scattered around the courtyard were stone fountains, their water flowing in gentle arcs that added a soothing murmur to the atmosphere. A few cats lounged lazily beneath the benches, their eyes half-closed as they napped in the warm afternoon sun. Some students leaned against the tree trunks, their books open on their laps, while others laughed and talked in groups, the air filled with a blend of voices and the rustle of leaves. The main building of the Academy rose several stories high, its stone walls worn by countless seasons but still standing firm and resolute---unlike my school, where each day ended with a sigh of relief because even the weakest earthquake wouldve reduced the building to dust. The Academy felt enduring and timeless. Vines crawled up its surface, threading through cracks and framing the windows with green. These windows were tall and arched, their glass panes catching the light and reflecting glimpses of the activity inside. The roof was covered with a mix of weathered slate and reddish tiles that seemed to glow under the sunlight, giving the building a stately look. At the centre of the structure was a clock tower, its face clear and bold, marking time with a steady tick. Well---at least I knew what time it was now. Wow, I whispered to myself, taking it all in. Its quite the building. A stern voice interrupted my thoughts. "You," said the guard standing at the gate, his eyes fixed on me. "Are you a student here?" "No, sir," I replied quickly. "I''m here to get enrolled. I came to this country from far away." The guard''s gaze lingered on me, sizing me up. "Mm" he said finally, giving a small nod. "Wait here. Ill get a teacher for you." "Right. Okay," I said, doing my best to appear calm despite the nerves stirring in my gut. The weight of the Academy''s presence pressed on me as I waited, wondering what lay ahead. After a bit of waiting, a student approached, accompanied by another guard. The student looked to be around my age, maybe my heightabout 175 centimetres. His brown hair was neatly kept, and his eyes had a sharpness to them that contrasted with mine. James always joked that my eyes looked like those of a cat--- a cat that had been dead for two decades. This guy, though, had a presence about himhandsome, yes, but with a seriousness that suggested he was someone important. This boy says hes here to get enrolled, the guard said, his tone casual yet slightly deferential. What do you think, council president? The boy adjusted his glasses with a flick of his hand, his expression barely changing. How old are you? he asked, his voice calm and composed. And youre just enrolling now? he continued, raising an eyebrow. You do realize its illega Yeah, I know, I interrupted, holding up a hand. I came from another country. Magic was forbidden there. His gaze didnt waver, but a hint of curiosity flashed in his eyes. Which country? Its you wouldnt know it, I said, shaking my head slightly. Quite far away. He paused, narrowing his eyes at me, then gave a slow nod. Do you have anything dangerous on you? Dangerous? I echoed. No, why? Turn around, kid, the guard ordered, stepping forward with a gruff look. Gonna check you over. I hesitated for a moment, then complied, turning my back to him. His hands were rough as they patted me down, and when he reached my pocket, he stopped. With a quick movement, he pulled out my phone, turning it over in his palm, his expression a mix of confusion and suspicion. He held it up in front of me, waiting for an explanation. I let out a quiet sigh, adjusting my tunic and straightening the gauntlet that hed somehow managed to jostle loose. Its a device from my country, I said, keeping my voice steady. A torch. The student council heads eyes narrowed slightly. A torch? Show us. The guard glanced at the student, looking uncertain. You sure thats a good idea? If he meant any harm, he wouldve done something already, the boy replied, his tone dismissive. Let him demonstrate. The guard grunted reluctantly. Fine. Dont try anything funny, kid. I took the phone back and quickly turned on the flashlight. The beam of light shone brightly in the guards face, and he blinked in surprise, clearly fascinated. The student council head, however, remained impassive, arms crossed over his chest, entirely unamused. Alright, the boy said, breaking the silence. Come with me. The headmaster will want to talk to you. Thank you, I said, giving a nod of appreciation. Names Axel, by the way. Liam, he replied curtly, turning on his heel. Now follow me, Axel. I fell into step behind him, doing my best to keep my excitement hidden beneath a calm exterior. Despite everything, there was a flicker of anticipation in my chestsomething I hadnt felt in a long time. Chapter 16: The test The students shot glances my way, whispering to each other as I passed. I stood out like a sore thumb, my clothes worn and dirt-streaked from my tumble down that slope in the forest. I limped slightly, my leg still sore even though it had mostly healed, and kept my arm held close to my side to avoid jarring the injury to my palm. I couldn''t help but grumble to myself, remembering that bizarre flower in the forest. What a nightmare that was. When we reached the double doors of the building, Liam pushed them open with a firm shove and stepped aside, nodding for me to go ahead. I hesitated for a second, then moved past him, entering the massive hall beyond. Inside, the space was breathtaking, like stepping into a different world. The ceiling arched high above, supported by massive stone pillars. In the centre of the hall stood a massive tree with crimson leaves, its trunk thick and gnarled, reaching almost to the ceiling. Its branches spread wide, casting dappled shadows over the long tables arranged beneath it. Students sat around the tables, some studying, others engaged in conversation, their laughter echoing off the walls. The floor was polished stone, reflecting the light from the hanging chandeliers, which were shaped like glowing orbs suspended in mid-air. Huh I muttered, my voice barely a whisper as I took it all in. Its quite big. It is, Liam said with a hint of pride. This building was constructed by tamed giants. Tamed gian I began, but stopped short, just staring up in awe. Wow. Come on, this way, he said, urging me forward with a wave of his hand. Headmasters room is upstairs. Sixth floor. Gotcha, I replied, and we headed toward the grand staircase that spiralled upward. As we climbed the stairs, I couldnt help but marvel at the scale of it all. Everything felt so rich, like Id stepped into the future. The hall alone was bigger than my old school; it was overwhelming in the best way possible. Hey, I started, hesitating a moment before continuing. What if someones mana is nonexistent. Like, zero. Liam slowed his pace, considering my question with a furrowed brow. Thatd be impossible, he said finally. Everyone has some level of mana, even if its minimal. A zero mana pool? That just doesnt happen. How can you be so sure? I pressed. Because thats what weve been taught, he said with a shrug. Its impossible. Simple as that. I wasnt usually one to initiate a conversation. In fact, Id have been perfectly content to stay silent, listening or pretending to listen. But now, I was forced to ask questions, to engage, to understand this world and its strange rules. And, honestly, I wasnt thrilled about it. As we continued to climb, I asked, Do you know anything about translucent boxes? Ensure your favorite authors get the support they deserve. Read this novel on Royal Road. Liam shot me a puzzled glance. What boxes? They show your HP, Stamina, Mana, that kind of stuff, I said, trying to sound casual. He shook his head, clearly baffled. Never heard of anything like that. Where did you hear that? My country, I lied smoothly. Its just something I remember hearing when I was a kid. HP? What does that even mean? I gave a small, dismissive wave. I dont really know. Like I said, I was just a kid. As we reached the third floor, I noticed Liams pace hadnt slowed a bit. He moved effortlessly like he wasnt tired. Back in middle school, Id gotten good at staying on my toes, running from bullies whod try to jump me for my lunch money. At least those jerks taught me how to be quick on my feet. Youre not tired? Liam asked, glancing back with a raised eyebrow. Thought youd be. Nah, I said, giving a quick shake of my head. Finally, we reached the sixth floor. The hallways here were lined with open classroom doors, and inside, students could be seen taking notes or listening to lectures. Cats slept lazily in the corners or curled up under the windows, their eyes half-closed as they basked in the sunlight streaming through the tall windows. Come on, Liam said, nodding toward a hallway to the right. This way. Okay. We reached the end of the corridor, where a large double door stood imposingly before us. The dark wood of the door was polished to a shine, with ornate handles made of bronze, shaped into curling vines that seemed to grow out of the surface. The wood itself was strong and heavy-looking, with subtle patterns in the grain that gave it a refined, almost regal air. Liam knocked firmly on the door, and a voice responded almost instantly, "Come in." He pushed the doors open with a steady hand, revealing the room beyond. The headmasters office was spacious yet minimalistic, with high ceilings and tall windows that let in streams of natural light. The furnishings were simplea large wooden desk, a few bookshelves lining the walls, and two chairs placed neatly in front of the desk. A single painting hung on the wall, depicting a serene landscape of a distant mountain range. Behind the desk sat a man who was clearly the headmaster. He was a broad-shouldered figure with a neatly trimmed grey beard, likely in his fifties. His hair, long and silver, fell gracefully over his shoulders. He wore pristine white gloves, and his suit was impeccably tailored, every crease in place as if it had been pressed moments ago. His piercing blue eyes gleamed as they shifted from the book he had just closed to focus on us. Sir, Liam said with a respectful nod, his posture straight and formal. This is Axel. Hes come from another country and wishes to enrol at our academy. The headmasters gaze sharpened, his voice carrying a weight of authority. Have you attended school in your own country, Axel? No, sir, I answered, bowing slightly in return. I dont know anything about magic. Where I come from, practising it is forbidden. Forbidden, you say, the headmaster mused, stroking his beard thoughtfully. So youre entirely unfamiliar with the nature of magic? Yes, sir. Im afraid so, I replied. He leaned back slightly, eyeing me with a mixture of curiosity and calculation. Have you been tested? I blinked, glancing at Liam in confusion before turning back to the headmaster. Tested, sir? Liam, the headmaster commanded with a firm nod. Take Axel to Ms. Canley. She will conduct the necessary tests. Yes, sir, Liam said without hesitation. He paused for a moment before asking, Will Axel be officially enrolled at the academy? It is the law, the headmaster replied with a decisive tone. He must be. Make sure he gets a uniform. Speak with Mr. Bentley about it. Understood, sir, Liam responded promptly. Well be on our way then. Have a good day, sir. The headmaster offered a final, brief nod, his eyes lingering on me for just a second longer before he returned to his book, signalling the end of our audience. Chapter 17: Affinity toward nothing We left the headmasters room and began our descent down the stairs. It seemed like the first lesson of the day had already begun, as the classroom doors were closed, and we could hear the muffled voices of teachers lecturing from within. The once-bustling halls were now quiet, save for a few cats lounging about, lazily napping in the patches of sunlight filtering through the windows. We halted at the fifth floor, where a teacher stood in the corridor, casting a small fire spell to re-light a candle that had gone out. As the flame flickered to life, she adjusted her robe and offered us a warm smile. Well, hello, she greeted, her tone light. Liam. And you are? Axel, maam, I replied, giving a slight nod. Axel, nice to meet you, she said with a friendly grin. Im July Canley. Pleasures mine, maam, I said. Hes here for the test, Ms. Canley, Liam explained, his hands clasped behind his back. Could we proceed now? Absolutely, Ms. Canley said, turning gracefully. Follow me, both of you. Liam and I trailed behind her as she led the way at a steady pace. Ms. Canley was a strikingly young and beautiful woman, her long, dark hair flowing freely down her back. She wore a deep blue robe and dark gloves. A small dagger was fastened to her belt, its handle worn yet well-maintained, suggesting she knew how to handle it if needed. Where are we headed? I asked, glancing around the unfamiliar surroundings. To assess your mana pool and abilities, Ms. Canley responded without missing a beat, her tone calm and professional. May I ask a question, Ms. Canley? I said, my curiosity getting the better of me. Of course, she replied, briefly looking back over her shoulder, her gaze attentive. What if someone has... no mana at all? Is it still possible for them to cast spells? She gave a soft chuckle, shaking her head slightly. Thats impossible, Axel, she said. Every living being has some amount of mana within them. Even the tiniest, most insignificant creatures like the mosquitoes you swat away in the summer. Oh I see, I said, nodding slowly. And, uh, have you ever heard of translucent boxes that show your stats? Like, health or stamina? Ms. Canley paused for a fraction of a second, her brows knitting slightly. Translucent boxes? No, I cant say I have, she replied, looking genuinely puzzled. Right, got it. Thanks anyway, maam, I said, tucking away my questions for later. TTTTTT?TTTTTT After descending to the ground floor, we stepped outside through the back door, revealing a surprising sight. Another large building stood behind the main one, hidden from view until now, connected by a graceful stone bridge that arched over a gentle stream. The back garden was filled with lush greenery, and the view ahead was dominated by a dense forest, its towering trees creating a picturesque backdrop. This book''s true home is on another platform. Check it out there for the real experience. We crossed the bridge and entered the second building, which, though slightly smaller than the main one, still impressed with its spaciousness. The hall was lined with glass cases displaying trophies and awards, some shining with gold and silver. Photographs adorned the walls, capturing the Academys historystudents receiving accolades, teams celebrating victories, and moments that seemed to hold a legacy of excellence. The floor was polished to a gleam here too, reflecting the light streaming through tall windows. This way, Ms. Canley instructed, her voice guiding us forward. Liam closed the door behind us, and we took an immediate left, entering a long corridor that seemed to function like an indoor bridge. The arched windows on either side allowed a clear view of the garden below and the forest beyond, blending the natural and architectural beauty seamlessly. At the end of the corridor, Ms. Canley led us through a lone door on the right. Inside, we found ourselves in a small, dimly lit room that looked more like a forgotten library than anything else. Dusty shelves lined the walls, filled with old books, while a few wooden tables stood against the corners, covered in a thin layer of dust. With a flick of her wrist, Ms. Canley brought the candles on the wall to life, their warm glow illuminating the space and casting flickering shadows on the stone floor. Sit wherever youre comfortable, Axel, Ms. Canley said with a calm smile. Were about to begin. Right... I murmured, trying to sound nonchalant as I took a seat on one of the chairs. Ms. Canleys smile grew a touch more sympathetic. Youre not one to show excitement easily, are you? I remember my first testI was trembling like a leaf. I guess Im just good at hiding it. Reaching into her pocket, Ms. Canley pulled out a small, thin sheet of paper. As I settled into the chair, she laid the paper carefully on my open palmthankfully not on my injured hand. Pressing a finger to the centre of the paper, she closed her eyes for a few seconds, and the sheet began to glow, emitting a soft blue light. My palm started to burn, a searing pain spreading across my skin. I clenched my jaw, fighting the urge to pull my hand away, my muscles tensing with the discomfort. Ms. Canley and Liam exchanged a concerned look, their eyes flickering between the glowing paper and my strained expression. The papers light grew brighter, and strange symbols seemed to shift on its surface, though I couldn''t make out what they were. Finally, the glow dimmed, and the pain subsided. I exhaled sharply, letting out a breath I didnt realise Id been holding. What was that? I asked, shaking the tingling sensation from my hand. Its not supposed to hurt, Liam remarked, a puzzled frown creasing his brow. Thats... unusual. Indeed, Ms. Canley murmured, examining the sheet with a mix of curiosity and concern. Axel Millo. Height: 175 centimetres. Weight: 67 kilos. You have an affinity toward nothing. Affinity? I repeated, trying to hide my disappointment. There are five main types of magicElemental, Nature, Arcane, Celestial, and Shadow, Liam explained, pushing his glasses up his nose. You show no natural affinity toward any of them. Its... well, not ideal, to be honest. And your mana, Ms. Canley continued, her eyes narrowing slightly as she studied the paper, is extremely weak. Almost too weak to even register properly on this test. Oh, I said quietly, my suspicions confirmed about my poor magical potential. Is that a bad sign? Ms. Canley gave me a strained smile, the kind that tried to be encouraging but didnt quite reach her eyes. Dont lose heart. Mana levels can improve with time and training. Youre not stuck with what you have now. Affinity toward nothing, Liam muttered under his breath, his tone a mix of surprise and pity. He straightened up, turning to Ms. Canley. Is the test complete, then? Yes, she confirmed, giving a small nod before flicking her wrist. The paper lifted into the air, igniting into a small flame before disintegrating into dust. Well place him in Class F. Class F it is, Liam said, glancing back at me. Come on, Axel. Lets get you your uniform. I stood up, brushing off the lingering sting in my hand, and followed him with a silent nod, trying to muster a sense of resolve despite the disappointing news. Chapter 18: Effort We left the dim room and crossed back over the indoor bridge, the open windows revealing the back garden once again. The crisp air and the sound of leaves rustling in the wind greeted us, providing a momentary distraction from the swirling thoughts in my head. Honestly, I was just looking forward to getting a room of my own at this academy. Paying for a bed in the tavern had been bleeding me drynot that I had much to begin with, or even a wallet anymore. "Bizarre," Ms. Canley muttered as she led the way, her pace steady while Liam and I trailed a few steps behind. "Ive never encountered a student quite like you." "Yeahsorry for being a disappointment, ma''am," I said with a dull voice. Ms. Canley quickly turned her head, waving her hands in an almost frantic gesture. "Oh, no! I didnt mean it like that at all. I just meant well, below average." "Below average would be a huge compliment for me right now," I replied, my tone dry. "Thanks, though." "Hey, dont be so hard on yourself," she said softly. "You still have plenty of room to grow. You just might have to put in more effort than the others, thats all." I gave a half-hearted nod. "Right. Effort." She smiled, giving me one last reassuring look before turning her gaze ahead. "Ah, theres Mr. Bentleys office," she pointed out. "Ill leave you two here, then. Andwelcome to Redwood Academy, Axel," she added with a kind wave before departing. Liam and I continued into the main building, passing by the enormous tree with its vibrant red leaves, and made our way to a door marked with the name Mr. Bentley. We stepped inside the small office, which was packed with tailoring tools and fabric samples. To the right stood a small wardrobe, and on the left wall hung a variety of tailor''s tools. The man behind the desk was inspecting a piece of fabric through a magnifier, his brow furrowed in concentration. Liam closed the door with a quiet thud and gave Mr. Bentley a nod. The man put down his fabric and magnifying glass, straightening up as he turned to face us. "Ah, Liam! And whos this young fellow?" Mr. Bentley asked, his voice warm as he focused on me. "A newcomer," Liam explained, gesturing toward me. "He needs a school uniform, sir. Class F." Mr. Bentleys gaze landed on the scar at the side of my head. "What happened there? Sword wound?" he asked, his eyes gleaming with curiosity. I touched the old bullet scar and shrugged slightly. "Yeah. Happened when I was younger, sir. Im Axel, by the way." He gave a wide smile, seemingly unfazed by the story. "Looks pretty cool if you ask me. Wish I had a scar like that. Liam''s expression tightened as he cut in, clearly uncomfortable. "Mr. Bentley, thats inappropriate. What if its a sensitive topic for Axel? Mr. Bentley raised his hands in mock surrender, smirking. "Alright, alright, President. Always so serious. Lets get to the uniform then, shall we?" Liam sighed. Please, sir. He walked over to the wardrobe, pulling out a crisp, neatly folded uniform. "A medium size should fit you well," he said, handing it over with a nod of satisfaction. The narrative has been taken without permission. Report any sightings. I took the uniform from him, feeling the fabric between my fingers. It was clean and sharp, clearly well-maintained. Draping it over my shoulder, I gave it a quick once-over, trying to suppress the strange mix of anticipation and dread swirling in my chest. "Thats all settled," Liam said, turning toward me with a small smile. "Youll officially start tomorrow, Axel." "Rooms?" I asked, raising an eyebrow. "Ill get a dorm room, right?" "Yes," Liam confirmed with a nod. "Each classA, B, C, D, and Fhas its own dorm building. Youll be assigned a room once youve officially enrolled tomorrow." "Got it." I replied. "Thank you for your help, Mr. Bentley," Liam said, his tone respectful but firm. "Anytime, boys," Mr. Bentley replied with a grin. "And welcome to the academy, Axel." After leaving the office, Liam and I settled down at a nearby table under the enormous tree in the hall. We leaned back in our chairs, both of us clearly worn out from all the walking. It showed on our faceswe needed a break. I glanced around, taking in the surroundings. I never thought I''d end up at a school here. But I had little choice. For the sake of a free room, I had to go through with it. I couldnt keep taking those risky jobs from the Guild forever, gambling with my life every day. If I was going to find a way back home without putting myself in constant danger, this academy was the safest bet. At least, for now, I didnt have to worry about money. Liam broke the silence, resting his hands on the table. So, how are you finding our school so far? Does it live up to your expectations? I shrugged, staring off into the distance. Its different from what I imagined. Good different or bad different? He leaned in slightly, his expression curious. I havent decided yet, I admitted, letting out a long sigh. My mind was still a whirlwind of thoughts. Well, whether you like it or not, youre obligated to graduate. Theres no skipping out once youve enrolled. he said with a serious tone. I raised an eyebrow, not exactly thrilled with the idea of sticking around that long. Yeah, well see about that. Mm. Not wanting to linger on the subject of graduationwhich wasnt even on my radarI quickly changed the topic. Hey, Liam. Why do people hate elves so much here? His face darkened instantly. Despicable creatures, he spat out before quickly composing himself again, his voice turning cold and measured. You really dont know the history? No, I dont, I replied, genuinely curious. Fill me in. Liam folded his arms, his gaze hardening. Two hundred years ago, Sultan Bhar of Hilzaan invaded our country. We were weak, barely able to defend ourselves. The kingdom was on the verge of collapse. Then the elves stepped in. They helped us with soldiers, resourcesenough to turn the tide and push Bhars forces back. They were seen as saviours. Hmm He paused, his eyes narrowing. But we didnt realise the real threat. As soon as the fighting ended, the elves used their newfound influence to infiltrate our politics. Bit by bit, they placed their people in strategic positions, pulling strings behind the scenes. By the time we noticed, the king was nothing more than their puppet. I nodded, following along. "What happened next?" The kings brother saw through it. He assassinated the king and took the throne. He pushed the elves out of power before they could fully seize control. If it wasnt for him, wed be living as slaves under elven rule, Liam said, his voice filled with bitter conviction. You dont think theres even one good elf out there? I asked, curious if his hatred ran that deep. He didnt hesitate. No, he replied firmly, the finality in his tone leaving no room for debate. I let out a quiet hum, absorbing his words. Gotcha. Liam stood up, brushing off his pants. Ive got to get to my next class, he said, offering a nod of farewell. Good meeting you, Axel. And once againwelcome to Redwood Academy. Chapter 19: Papers Just as Liam was about to leave, I thought of asking him about the strange, eye-like thing that appeared near my school before all of this happened. I was convinced that whatever that thing was, it had to be responsible for throwing me into this world. But then I hesitated, not wanting to come off even crazier than I already had. I rose slightly, but then stopped, watching Liam walk away until he disappeared from sight. Despite his cold demeanour, I had to admit he helped me through my unofficial first day at Redwood Academy. A voice broke my thoughts. "It''s you," someone said from behind me. "I saw you. You''re the newcomer, huh?" Turning around, I found myself face-to-face with a Noxivera, the girl with the horns I had bumped into on the street. She was sitting at a nearby table, popping grapes from a plastic lunchbox into her mouth, seemingly unfazed by my presence. "Yeah," I replied. "Newcomer." "Which class?" she asked casually. "F," I said, not bothering to turn fully toward her. "Whoa, Class F?" she repeated with mockery in her voice. "You suck." "Thanks," I replied dryly, wishing the conversation would end. Noxivera seemed to wait for a beat, then added, "You''re not going to ask me which class I''m in?" "Which class are you in?" I said, my voice flat and unenthused, still staring straight ahead. "B," she answered, as if expecting more of a reaction. "Mm-hmm." "Wow, you really don''t know how to talk to people," she grumbled, standing up. "Fine. Suit yourself." I heard her footsteps grow fainter as she walked away, finally leaving me alone. I let out a slow breath, relieved to have some space to think. The idea of finding that library room from the test crossed my mind. Maybe, just maybe, thered be some book or record about the giant eye in the sky. It was a long shot, but I had to start somewhere, no matter how slim the odds seemed. "Tomorrow," I muttered to myself, making a mental note to explore that room later. ================ NEW QUEST ================ Quest Title: Papers -------------------------- Deadline: Today Objective: * Complete two quests from The Guild on the same day. -------------------------- Rewards: - Gold: 2 - Experience: 25 XP ========================== [Accept] [Decline] [Enhance] This novel is published on a different platform. Support the original author by finding the official source. Suddenly, a translucent box appeared in front of me, startling me so much that I jolted up, smacking my knee against the underside of the table. I winced in pain, rubbing my knee while a few students gave me odd looks before resuming their conversations. Ignoring them, I focused on the quest box that hovered in the air. I still had no idea what this weird interface was or why it kept showing up, but I knew I needed to understand itjust like everything else in this world. My eyes lingered on the [enhance] option, curious about what it might do. I hesitated for a moment, then tapped it to see what would happen. Quest Title: Papers Piling Papers -------------------------- Deadline: Today Objective: * Complete two four quests from The Guild on the same day. -------------------------- Rewards: - Gold: 2 4 - Experience: 25 XP 60 XP ========================== [Accept] [Decline] The upgraded quest box displayed its new terms, the rewards now significantly higher. Four quests seemed like a lot to handle, and honestly, I wasnt thrilled at the thought of risking my life again for a few pieces of gold. After all, I was about to get my own dorm room, which meant I didn''t need to worry about paying for a place to sleep. But then again... 60 xp could mean levelling up. And maybe, just maybe, levelling up would help me finally access my mana. The possibility gnawed at me, tempting me with the idea that it might unlock something within me that could make this whole ordeal a little less hopeless. I sat there, eyes shut, weighing my options. The thought of taking on more quests made my stomach churn, but the idea of improving myself, of finally finding a way to use magic, was too enticing to ignore. With a deep breath, I opened my eyes and nodded to myself. "Eh," I muttered, reaching out and selecting the enhanced quest. "Ill try." With slow steps, I began to walk toward the front entrance of the building. Everything was making my head spin. It all seemed so unreal. I couldnt wrap my mind around the fact that I had just enrolled in another schoolin another world. The craziness kept piling up, as if the universe was telling me, screw you, and it was getting its message across loud and clear. As I left the building, I glanced back at Redwood Academy one last time before passing through the gates. Four quests in one day. It was enough to gain me a level, according to the translucent box. ========================= | Current XP: 40 / 100 -------------------------------- | Progress: ??????? ========================= "Okay," I muttered, eyeing the numbers floating in front of me. "With 60 XP, I''ll level up... but then what?" I stopped in the middle of the street, watching people go about their everyday lives. Kids were playing pretend with wooden swords and shields, while vendors sold their goods at stalls. Everyone was moving forward with their lives. Except me. I was stuck here, doing pointless tasks just to survive. I let out a sigh, heavy with frustration, and began heading toward the Guild. On paper, four quests sounded easy, but in reality, I knew it wouldnt be. "I miss my bed," I whispered, lost in the crowd. "I miss my home." But I knew that breaking down and crying wouldnt fix anything or bring me back to my world. With a sudden burst of determination, I quickened my pace. The sooner I got those quests from the Guild, the better. TTTTTT?TTTTTT The quest board had twelve papers pinned to it, and I picked the four easiest, though none were exactly ideal. Still, they were better than nothing. First up, I had to track down a runaway sheep just outside the tavern, the same one with the school uniform hanging on its wall. Conveniently, the quest-giver lived right across from it, so at least I wouldnt have to run all over town. The second quest seemed more straightforward. Apparently, someone had dropped their wedding ring near the stables by the front gates. All I had to do was find it and return it. Easy enough. The third and fourth quests, though, were more complicated. Both involved heading to a place called ''Requiem,'' a well-known blacksmith shop according to the Guild clerk. The third quest required me to handle a rat infestation there. And for the fourth, I had to capture a specific rat with a blue tailit was someones pet that had gone missing among the other rats. Things definitely couldnt get more complicated. Man, I sighed, sinking into a chair at one of the tables. "What a hassle." I rubbed the back of my head, feeling the weight of the tasks ahead. Four quests seemed a bit much now that I thought about it. Killing rats? I muttered to myself. Ive never killed anything before anyways. Wouldnt hurt to try, at least. Chapter 20: The lost sheep I slipped the map into my back pocket and looked ahead. Requiem, the blacksmiths shop, stood before me. Outside was an older man, likely the blacksmith, standing near his waresshields and weapons on display, still damp from the rain the day before. I remembered seeing his quest on the board when I grabbed that flower retrieval job. The poor guy mustve been dealing with this rat problem for a while. Judging by his age, there was no way he could handle a rat infestation on his own. As I approached, I gave him a polite nod. He returned a warm smile, gesturing toward the equipment behind him as he scratched his beard. Sorry, kid, he said. Cant use my shop at the moment. These are all Ive got for now. Im here for the quest, I replied. The rat infestation. Oh okay. Thank you, he said, pulling a key from his back pocket and handing it over. Those damn rats have been giving me nightmares for days. YeahI had the same problem back home, I said. Would it be alright if I didnt kill them? Sure, he said, sighing. Just get those rats out of my shop, please. Nodding, I took the key and unlocked the door. Stepping inside, I immediately noticed the state of the shop. The blacksmith''s tools and equipment were scattered about, with a few rats in the corner nibbling on bits of something. The place was dim, with the smell of soot still lingering in the air from previous forge work. While I scanned the room, I spotted the blue-tailed rat I needed to capture sitting on the counter, munching on a piece of bread. The moment I stepped forward, all the rats darted back into their hiding spots, including the blue-tailed one. Most of them scurried under the counter, while a few others dashed out of a small hole in the back wall. I could hear them skittering behind the wall, making their way through the tight spaces. Making a mental note of where the blue-tailed rat had disappeared, I crouched down, looking through the little hole. A faint scratching noise came from the other side. The hole led to a back alley, and a foul stench wafted through it, hitting me full force. Ugh I stood up quickly, unlocked the back door, and stepped outside to investigate. What I saw made me stop in my tracksa dead cats carcass lay in the alley, and a swarm of rats had gathered around it, gnawing at the poor thing. Now I understood why the rats had become so interested in this area. They were drawn to the rotting body. Shuddering, I placed one foot over the small hole to block the rats from running back inside, shooing them away as I gingerly picked up the cats remains. I found an empty box nearbyprobably something the blacksmith used for deliveriesand used it to block the hole, preventing any more rats from entering the shop. Grimacing, I carried the cats body into the main street. People shot me looks of disgust as they passed by, but I didnt know where else to put it, so I placed it in a corner away from the road and returned to the alley. What I wouldnt do for gold I muttered to myself, shaking my head as I headed back inside to finish the job. I closed the door behind me and walked toward the counter, listening closely. The sounds of scurrying were unmistakableat least four or five rats were still hiding underneath. If I was going to capture that blue-tailed rat, I needed a good trap. Luckily, an idea was forming in my mind. Heading outside again, I grabbed the empty box I had spotted earlier. It was large enough to trap a good number of rats, maybe even twenty. After blocking the hole in the back wall with another box, I pulled out the small piece of cheese I had wrapped earlier in a scrap of cloth I bought on the way here. I carefully placed it inside the trap. Using a sword from the blacksmiths display as a makeshift ramp, I leaned it against the box, creating a stair for the rats. It would make it easier for them to climb in, but once they were inside, they''d have no way out. Satisfied with my setup, I dusted my hands off and took a step back.Did you know this text is from a different site? Read the official version to support the creator. That should do it, I muttered to myself, giving the box one last check. "Now, onto that lost ring." Leaving through the front entrance, I locked the door and handed the key back to the blacksmith. He was in the middle of a sale, discussing a shield with a customer. I waited until the man handed over some coins and walked off before I spoke. Most of the rats are gone, I said, crossing my arms. Theres a hole in the back wall. Youll want to put some vinegar on it until you can get it fixed. That should keep them away. The blacksmith glanced through the window, squinting to peer inside his shop. Ah, thanks for the tip, he said, then pointed toward the box. Whats that for? Just a trap for the ones that are left. Ill check it in about ten or twenty minutes, I replied, my voice flat. Dont worry. Ill handle it. The old man smiled, looking relieved. I appreciate it, boy. Thank you. No problem, sir, I said, nodding before turning to leave. Ill be back shortly. Without another word, I started toward the next quest. I started walking toward the east entrance, deciding to deal with the lost sheep first. I had never seen a sheep in real lifeonly in video games and pictures from storybooks when I was a kid. Everything here felt so foreign, pushing me further and further out of my comfort zone. What a joke this all was. The only thing keeping me going was the hope that, one day, Id be back in my world. Sitting in my room with a hot cup of coffee, watching the rain, safe from monstrous creatures. Hell, at this point, Id even tolerate listening to James rant about the stock market. Ill be back... I whispered to myself. After some walking, I noticed a crowd gathered around a woman giving a speech. Keeping my expression neutral, I veered toward the gathering, slipping into the middle of the crowd. The woman stood on a wooden box, her attire suggesting she was of middle-class standing. The crowd murmured amongst themselves, some nodding in agreement as they chatted. So, the woman continued, her voice growing louder, when you see an elf, report it to the nearest guard. They arent safe. "Yes!" a man shouted from the crowd. Two days ago, one of them tried to rob me on my way to the second graveyard! I barely escaped with my life! You see?! The woman gestured wildly. Elves cant act like normal humans... because they arent human! What makes us human is our beating hearts. And those creatures? They have stone where their hearts should be! Yeah! Kill the fuckers! Damned elves! Death to all of them! "Monsters... every last one!" I pushed my way out of the crowd, shaking my head in disbelief. These people were serious about hating elvestalking about killing them on sight. Casual racism existed in my world, sure, but I had never seen this level of hate, this deep-rooted malice. It was as if theyd been fed stories about how evil elves were since birth. Sheesh, I muttered. What a bunch of racist idiots. The east gate was open, people passing through constantly. Some were carrying buckets of water on their shoulders, while children played games, darting between adults. It all looked so... normal, despite the craziness swirling in my head. I passed through the gate and headed toward a small house near the tavern. A dog lay lazily by the front door, its eyes half-open, while a woman tended to her crops with the help of her children. A few sheep were penned in a clean-looking enclosure nearby. I had expected a stench, but the area was surprisingly well-kept. I nodded at the woman, but she didnt seem to notice me. It was one of her kids who spotted me first. The boy tugged on his mothers clothes, drawing her attention. She finally glanced my way, her eyes scanning me, trying to figure out my purpose. Hello, I began, stepping forward. Im here about the quest. The lost sheep? Oh, right! she responded, wiping her hands on her apron. Yeah, one of our sheep got out last night. It ran into the forest. My husband went after it, but he came back empty-handed. We figured it was time to call in some professional help. Help... I mumbled under my breath, the idea of me being considered a professional, was funny. Ill do my best to find it. Which way did it go? She pointed toward the edge of the forest. It ran off in that direction, opposite the dirt road. Got it. Thanks for the info, I said, offering her a quick nod. Oh, if you do find it, just make sheep noises. Itll follow you. Sheep noises, I muttered. R-right. Got you. Ill do that when I find it. She shrugged, her face showing doubt. I doubt itll be found. But... good luck. TTTTTT?TTTTTT Chapter 21: Innocent or guilty Crouching under a low-hanging branch, I emerged into a small clearing. The dense trees made what shouldve been easy navigation a frustrating chore. I leaned against a nearby trunk, taking a moment to catch my breath. My leg still throbbed from the wound, but at least I could walk. No infection to worry about. Still, the pain gnawing at my palm and leg was a real problem. Pushing off the tree, I reached into my back pocket and pulled out my map. According to it, I was close to a well. Other than that, just an endless sea of trees. "Great," I muttered. "Just an endless forest. How hard can it be?" With an exhale, I resumed my search. The forest was eerily quiet, save for the occasional caw of a distant crow. A light breeze would stir the leaves now and then, only to die down as quickly as it came. The air had a chill to it, but nothing too bad. After a few more steps, I arrived at the well. It was nothing impressivejust a moss-covered structure with a bucket hanging from a frayed rope. Vines had crept into its cracks, overtaking most of the stone. "Right," I mumbled, "Let''s try over here..." The muddy ground squelched beneath my boots as I veered toward a towering tree ahead. Draped from its branches were strands of old fabric, probably left behind by someone. Its trunk had crude heart shapes, likely carved with a blade. Looked like a spot where lovers would meet, not where some idiot would be searching for a runaway sheep. I moved past the tree, hopping down from a nearby rock, maybe forty or fifty centimetres high. My leg screamed in protest, the forgotten pain flaring back to life. "Agh..." I groaned, gripping my leg. "Shit. Alright, okay. Come on, keep it together." I pressed on, limping slightly, hoping to finally catch a glimpse of the lost sheep. I couldnt help but feel irritatedmost of these Guild quests were the same: find this, fetch that. It was all busywork. The main board had more varied quests, though. Everything from eliminating a bandit leader to retrieving some strange artefact from an old ruin. Those paid more, naturally. I saw a quest offering 250 gold for capturing a wanted rapist from Kinowa. The thought faded as I stopped, taking in my surroundings again. It was still dead silent. No sign of the sheep. No baaing in the distance. "Come on, sheepy, sheepy," I muttered, the words flat as I scanned the trees. "Where are you?" A sudden rustling behind me made me jump. Spinning around, I spotted a deer standing on the rock I had just hopped off. Its eyes locked onto me, completely still. It didnt even look like it was breathing. I took a step toward it, and in an instant, it darted off into the forest, vanishing into the trees. Still a bit shaken, I turned back around and continued forward. I couldnt afford distractions right nowI had a job to do. "Come on..." I muttered under my breath. "Why would you run away in the first place?" Rubbing my leg where the wound still ached, I pushed onward. Who would''ve thought that the sound of a sheeps baa could become the highlight of my day? Ahead, the grass grew taller, giving the place a swampy vibe. Pushing the grasses aside with my hands, I made a path through the overgrowth. The sound of frogs croaking and the faint trickle of water became more noticeable, and the dirt underfoot was getting muddier with each step. One wrong move and I''d be flat on my back. "If I were a sheep," I muttered, "this is the last place I''d wander into." I soon stumbled upon a small pond. To my surprise, there was a freshly cut tree trunk nearby, and resting on it was a large shield. Raising an eyebrow, I scanned my surroundings before approaching. The shield was heavytoo heavy to carry easily. But if I managed to sell it, I could probably make a decent amount of gold. After giving it a once-over, I placed it back on the stump with a sigh. I had to sell this thing. Level 1: Axel HP: [?????] 55/100 Mana: [????????] -1/100 Stamina: [??] 70/100 Options: [Inv | Skills | Quests] Tapping the "Inventory" option, a new screen popped up, displaying what I currently had. ====================== |Inventory ====================== ---------------------------The narrative has been taken without authorization; if you see it on Amazon, report the incident. | Gold: 0 --------------------------- | [Empty] --------------------------- | [Empty] --------------------------- | [Empty] --------------------------- | [Empty] ====================== Seeing the zero gold amount caused a small heart attack, but I quickly remembered that Id already taken out my gold. Right now, I had four gold pieces and four silver left, having spent some on that cheese earlier. It wasnt much, but Id have to make it work until I found a way back home. "Alright come on." I grabbed the shield again, lifting it with both hands, and moved it toward the translucent box interface. My palm throbbed from the effort, but I pushed through the pain. The shield hovered just in front of the screen but nothing happened. With a small ache in my palm, I placed the shield back on the stump and scratched the back of my head in thought. Tapping on one of the empty slots in my inventory, a smaller box popped up. ============== Buy Slot 1? (1s) ============== [Accept] [Decline] Raising an eyebrow, I shrugged and hit "Accept." I felt the weight in my pocket lessen as one of my silver coins vanished. Four gold and three silver left now. "Alright, lets try this again..." I reached for the shield once more, bringing it closer to the translucent interface. This time, a glowing line appeared around the shield, forming a circle before glowing and disappeared into my inventory. ====================== |Inventory ====================== --------------------------- | Gold: 0 --------------------------- | [Worned out shield] --------------------------- | [Empty] --------------------------- | [Empty] --------------------------- | [Empty] ====================== "Nice," I muttered, feeling a small sense of accomplishment. "Now... back to finding that runaway sheep." With a resigned sigh, I turned my attention back to the task at hand. Just then, a weak scream echoed from the far side of the pond, opposite where I had entered. I knew exactly how these horror stories played outrushing in was a surefire way to get myself killed. Instead, I turned and started to backtrack, only to hear footsteps approaching from the direction I needed to go. Panic set in, and I threw myself behind the tree stump, forcing myself to calm my breathing. "Shit. Shit. Shit." I hear him! a voice shouted. Dont let him get away! Weve already got a man on him, another one replied. Hes as good as caught. I pressed myself harder against the stump, holding my breath. The footsteps came to a stop nearby. I didnt dare peek around the corner; this wasnt the kind of excitement I signed up for. After a few moments, more footsteps approached from where I had heard that scream earlier. Ive got the human, a third voice said, filled with mocking triumph. Thought you could outrun an elf? Please! A desperate man cried out, his voice trembling. I didnt do anything wrong. Please! My father didnt do anything either, one of the elves sneered. Yet you people hung him like an animal. Take your revenge on the guards, not me! The man pleaded, his voice breaking. I didnt harm anyone! I dont care if youre innocent or guilty, the elf replied coldly. Your kind paints us as monsters, killers so well give you exactly that. No! Please! Please! I risked a glance around the stump. Four elves had encircled a man kneeling on the ground, his hands tied, his face battered and bruised. The tallest elf stood over him, holding a dagger in one hand, his eyes burning with rage. With a quick movement, the elf yanked the man up by his collar and plunged the dagger into his neck. Blood spurted across the clearing, and I recoiled back behind the stump, my face expressionless, though my insides churned with fear. Let his corpse rot, the tall elf ordered. Lets move. Wait for me, I left my shield on that stump... huh? one of them said, confused. It was right here. Are you sure? the leader asked, his tone impatient. I dont see it. Im positive, the other elf muttered, stepping closer to where I was hiding. I flattened myself against the stump, every muscle tense, willing myself to be invisible. Were wasting time! the tall elf snapped. Leave it and move. Fine, the other elf grumbled, stepping back. Ill just get another one later. I waited, not daring to move until the sound of their footsteps faded into the distance. Slowly, I pulled myself out from behind the stump. Elves and humansthis wasn''t just a case of racism; there was a deep-seated hatred between them. Both sides truly loathed each other, and I had little hope for their relationship improving anytime soon. I sat on the stump, tilting my head down as I exhaled. I didnt want to look back and see the corpse behind me I just had to get out of the forest. And then, as if the universe decided to throw me a bone, a familiar sound reached my earsbaafrom the same direction the scream had come from. Finally, I muttered under my breath, relieved. Somethings going right for once. TTTTTT?TTTTTT Chapter 22: Just run Come on, stupid sheep, I muttered with a dull tone, leading it through the edge of the forest. The tavern and the quest-giver''s home were now in sight. Herding this sheep felt ridiculous, like I was some kind of shepherd dog. Whenever it veered off the path, I had to step in, cutting it off and guiding it back on track. According to my phone, Id only spent about ten minutes in that forest, which wasnt bad considering I thought Id never find the sheep in that endless maze. The quest-giver stepped out of her house, her kids trailing behind her. As the sheep and I approached, she opened the gate to the pen, and together we nudged the sheep inside. Ah I sighed, catching my breath. That was exhausting. You actually did it, she said, clearly surprised. I cant thank you enough. Its fine, I replied, waving it off. Just doing my job. Take care. You too, boy. Thank you again! How did you even find it? A bit of luck. I replied. Gah, I need that kinda luck in my life, kid. Really. With a nod, I headed toward the east gate. I needed to stop by the blacksmiths shop and see if my trap had caught those rats. As I stepped through the gate, my mind drifted back to what I had witnessed in the forestthe elf, so indifferent to the murder he''d committed. It sent a chill down my spine. I considered reporting it to the guards, but that would just bring attention I didnt need. The last thing I wanted was for those elves to come after me for snitching. I decided to let it be. I was only here temporarily, anyway. Soon, Id be back in my worldat least, thats what I kept telling myself. So messed up That woman was still giving a speech about how elves were the worst of the worst and why humans should avoid them at all costs. Both sides werent holding back their punches, which was only making things worse for everyone. Turning the corner, I spotted Requiem, the blacksmiths shop. The man selling goods outside waved at me, likely having been waiting for me to check in on the trap. Hey, you here to check the trap? he asked as I walked up. Yeah, I nodded. Ill let you know how it went. Oh, I hope it worked. Fingers crossed, kid. Hmm. Without wasting time, I entered the shop and went straight to the trap. Inside the box were six rats, including the elusive blue-tailed one. The cheese was, of course, gone, but the trap had done its job while I was out chasing sheep. I nodded to myself and grabbed the box. It was heavy, but nowhere near as bad as that shield from earlier. I nudged the door open with my foot and stepped outside. The mans face lit up when he saw the boxs contents. Oh, thats fantastic, young man! he exclaimed. These little pests finally gone. Thats the last of them, I said. Remember, keep some vinegar near the hole until you can patch it up.This story has been unlawfully obtained without the author''s consent. Report any appearances on Amazon. Thank you, boy. Really, thank you. Just doing what Im paid to do, I replied, keeping my tone flat. Have a nice one. Hey, wait. He said, handing me a silver coin. For your troubles, boy. A little extra. Hmm. I said, pocketing the coin. Thank you, sir. Now, I just had to return the blue-tailed rat to its owner and track down that ring someone lost near the stables. Alright, I muttered to myself, heading off. Three down, one to go. TTTTTT?TTTTTT After handing off the blue-tailed rat to its owner, I made my way to the stables, hoping to find the missing ring. The stables were small and worn, their wooden beams weathered from years of use. The horses stood idly in their stalls, occasionally flicking their tails or snorting, their hooves shifting restlessly on the straw-covered ground. Nearby, some guards were lounging under a large tree, their swords resting against their shoulders as they chatted lazily. It was a peaceful afternoonclear skies and not a cloud in sight. Ring I muttered to myself, scanning the ground. Where are you The stable owner, standing near one of his horses, glanced in my direction. Whatre you looking for, kid? A ring, I replied, turning briefly to face him. Part of a quest. Havent seen anything like that. Good luck, though. I nodded and crouched, spotting something shiny in the dirt. My heart sank as I picked it upjust a smashed piece of metal. Letting out a frustrated sigh, I continued my slow search, eyes glued to the ground. There was a chance someone else mightve already found it, but I wasnt about to give up. This was the last quest I had lined up, and I wasnt going to let it slip through my fingers after coming this far. Not long after, a man came rushing toward the stable, his face pale. The guards immediately snapped out of their relaxed state, jumping to their feet and drawing their swords. Whats going on? one of them called out. Someones been killed! the man gasped, trying to catch his breath. In the forest! Near that well! Damn it, the shorter guard grumbled. Bet its those damn elves. Ill let the Captain know, the other guard said, already heading off. Well check it out after. I kept my distance, continuing to search for the ring as their conversation drifted away from my focus. Things were getting tense in this town, and I wasnt about to get caught up in the growing conflict between humans and elves. I crouched down again as something else glimmered in the dirt, but when I picked it up, it was just another fragment of glass. I dropped it with a huff. This was taking longer than expectedit felt like trying to find a needle in a haystack. For all I knew, someone could have already pocketed the ring, or some kid could be playing with it right now. Unbelievable, the stable owner muttered, clearly shaken by the news. You hear this, kid? Those damn elves. Yeah, I replied, still focused on the search. Do you think humans and elves will ever live in peace? He let out a harsh laugh. When the moon touches the earth, boy. When the moon touches the damn earth. Hmm, I mumbled, distracted. The stable owner crossed his arms, leaning against the fence. Hey, that ring youre looking forit belongs to Ms. Shala, right? Yeah, I said, glancing up from the ground. The name Nio Shala was on the quest notice. Shes an older woman, the stable owner continued, shaking his head. Always losing and forgetting things. Wouldnt surprise me if she never even dropped it. You should probably go check on her. Might save you a lot of trouble. I stood up, brushing the dirt off my knees. You think she still has it? He shrugged, patting the neck of one of his horses. Wouldnt be the first time. Shes a bit forgetful. If you ask me, theres a good chance she still has it lying around somewhere in her house. Great, I muttered. Where does she live? The quest just said to return the ring to the Guild. No address. You know Mortans blacksmith shop? Yeah. There are some stairs across from it. Head up those and its the first house on the left, right at the top. I gave him a nod of thanks. Alright, Ill check it out. Thanks. No problem, kid. Oh, and, if you see any of those cunts just run. Hmm Chapter 23: Consequences will be severe After walking through the front entrance of the city, the guards swung the gates open for me without question. I was starting to feel the fatigue from all this walking, and that wasnt something I normally dealt with. Still, I made my way to Mortans blacksmith shop and found the stairs the stable owner had mentioned. Climbing them slowly, I reached the first house on the left. The place was small, ivy creeping along the stone walls, with windows fogged over by age. I knocked on the door, hoping Ms. Shala was home. A moment later, the door creaked open, revealing a frail-looking woman with silver hair and narrow, piercing eyes. She squinted at me, her voice raspy as she asked, Yes? What do you need? Before I could respond, a younger voice called from inside. Whos that, Mom? A woman, presumably her daughter, stepped into view, opening the door wider. She gave me a brief nod, her gaze curious but not unfriendly. Hey, I began, clearing my throat. Ms. Shala posted a quest about a missing ring. I was wondering if it couldve ended up somewhere else. The daughter crossed her arms and leaned against the doorway. Yeah, I posted the quest on her behalf. We were out foraging mushrooms in the forest, then came through the front gates. She had the ring with her up until then. Im sure of it. I raised an eyebrow. What makes you think it was dropped near the stables? She let out a sigh. A group of kids was playing there, and one of them bumped into my mother. She mustve dropped it at that moment. Or, I suggested, glancing between the two, one of those kids mightve lifted it off her. Did you get a good look at him? The older womans voice cracked in defence. Hes no thief! That boys my neighbours son. I know him. Your neighbours kid, huh? I said, shifting my weight. He lives nearby? The daughter nodded, stepping outside to point down the street. Two houses over. That one, right there. I followed her gesture and nodded in return. Alright. Ill check it out and let you know if I find anything. Thanks again, she said, stepping back inside. Good luck. Hmm, I muttered, walking toward the right. As I approached the house, I pulled my hood up, letting my cape drape over my left arm, blending in with the surroundings. The house stood out from the othersa single-story, much less sturdy, with a cracked window next to the front door. The door itself was made of cheap wood, warped and weathered by time. Circling around the back, I spotted a small kitchen window. Unlike the others, this one didnt have curtains, giving me a clear view inside. A man was slouched in a rocking chair, the half-eaten sandwich on his stomach rising and falling with each breath. The inside of the house was a mess. Dishes piled high in the sink, clothes strewn across the floor, and empty bottles littered the corners of the room. It looked like the man had given up on any sense of order. Hmm I muttered under my breath, making sure no one was watching as I crept closer to the window. No sign of any kids. That old woman either had no idea what happened to her ring, or it had clearly been swiped. The more I thought about it, the more it seemed unlikely shed just dropped it. My gut told me the ring was inside this very house. Turning around, I looked out over the street. From here, I could see the blacksmiths shop in the distance, along with the nearby graveyard. Sturdy wooden fences lined the edges of the elevated street, meant to keep people from falling. I circled back to the front, knocking on the door before stepping to the side to peek inside. The man stirred, startled awake, quickly wiping the drool from his chin before shoving the rest of the sandwich into his mouth. He stumbled toward the door, his walk unsteady, and opened it with a bleary look. We locked eyes, and I gave him a brief nod, keeping my expression neutral. I couldnt exactly say, I think your kid stole a ring from the old lady next door, so let me search your house. Improvising would be the only way to handle this. Hello, I greeted, my tone calm and boring as always. May I interest you in a piece of advanced technology from my homeland? The man squinted, tilting his head in confusion. Advanced what now?This tale has been unlawfully lifted without the author''s consent. Report any appearances on Amazon. Its a torch, I explained, pulling out my phone and turning on the flashlight. This one doesnt need fire to burn. It works with prayers. He stepped back, eyes wide in disbelief. Gods above... what is that? May I come in? I asked, gesturing toward the open door. Itll be easier to explain inside. Still staring at the light in awe, he quickly waved me in. Gods... yes, yes, come on in. That thing is... magnificent! As I stepped inside, I scanned the room. It was just as messy as Id seen from the outside: plates piled high, crumbs scattered across the floor. My gaze locked onto a boy sitting near the kitchen table. He looked roughmessy hair, sharp eyes, and an attitude that screamed trouble. He had the kind of look that instantly reminded me of the bullies from school. He couldnt have been older than thirteen, maybe fourteen at most. He wasnt a kid like Ms. Shala said. Hell, when she told me she bumped into a, kid, I thought hed be like eight or something. I took a seat near the table, my eyes never leaving the boy. I placed the phone down, its light still illuminating the room. As you can see, it doesnt burn, I said calmly. But you can still see in the darkness just as clearly. The man, still mesmerised, sat beside me. Whats... whats this thing called? Smartphone, I replied, sliding the phone slightly across the table. Im selling it for five gold. He blinked, reaching a tentative hand toward the device. Does the fire... ever run out? Before I could answer, the kid broke the silence with a snarl. Who the hell are you? His eyes narrowed, full of suspicion. Father, why are you letting some random weirdo into the house? Shut up, boy! the man snapped, not even glancing at his son. Cant you see the torch hes holding? Its... its the future! Just then, a knock at the door interrupted our little show. The old man muttered under his breath, looking annoyed as he stood to answer it. Damn guards again, he grumbled. Theyve been asking questions about elves. Probably searching the area again. I nodded, keeping my expression neutral. No problem. As the man moved toward the door, I shifted my attention fully to the kid, who had crossed his arms and was glaring at me from the kitchen counter. He was trying to intimidate me, but Id seen enough kids like him to know he was just a small-time bully trying to assert dominance. I stood up slowly, taking a few steps toward him, closing the distance between us. Only a metre separated us now. Neither of us blinked as we locked eyes, the tension thick between us. I lied to your father, I said, my voice calm, yet cold. The boy scoffed, pushing me hard enough to make me take a step back. What the hell are you talking about? I regained my balance and straightened up, my eyes still locked on his. This device? Its not just a torch. It helps me communicate with Rowe herself. The Goddess of Death. His sneer faltered for a second, but he quickly recovered, spitting venom with every word. Suck my dick, weirdo. Get out of here before I throw you out myself. You angered her, I continued, ignoring his insult. You should be careful with your words. Rowe doesnt forgive easily. While his face hardened, doubt flickered in his eyes. That was all I needed. I subtly opened the notepad app on my phone behind my back, typing out a few lines quickly. You bumped into Ms. Shala, I said, my tone steady. And you took her ring. The hell I did, he snapped, his voice rising. Even if I did, its none of your business, elf-lover. Now get out! You did. I took a step forward, my voice unshaken. Stop lying. He lunged, shoving me harder this time. My back hit the wall with a thud. What if I dont? he growled. Whatre you gonna do about it, huh? My expression remained neutral, unfazed. You have a foul mouth. Its rude to speak that way in the presence of a goddess. What goddess? He cocked an eyebrow, but his voice wavered. Get out, you freak! I tapped the phone and activated the text-to-speech app, watching the screen flicker. Then, after I finished writing a sentence on it, a robotic woman''s voice echoed through the room from my phone. You! You have stolen what you should not have! Gods above! What the hells is that? The boys bravado vanished in an instant. He looked around the room wildly, trying to figure out where the voice was coming from. Whos there? Is this some kind of trick? You have stolen my ring, The voice declared, calm and still robotic. The one I gifted to my subject. Return it, or face the consequences. The boys hands trembled as he fumbled for something in his pocket. I... I didnt mean to She sent me here, I said, cutting him off. Rowe herself pointed me in your direction. Shes very angry. Panic flared in his eyes as he yanked a ring from his pocket and slammed it onto the table. I needed the money, I swear! I... I had to take it. The voice from the phone spoke again, this time abruptly cutting off. Voice assistant trial has ended. Subscribe within the link to see your personal offers. What the...? The boys confusion was clear. She says... I cleared my throat, quickly turning the phone off. She wants you to stop bullying other kids. Or the consequences will be... severe. His eyes widened. I swear! I swear Ill change! Ill never bully anyone again, I swear on the gods! Good, I muttered, pocketing the ring. I think were done here. Chapter 24: Still at minus one =================== NOTIFICATION =================== * Quest Completed: Piling Papers -------------------------------- + XP Gained: 60 + Gold Earned: 4 -------------------------------- | Current XP: 100 / 100 -------------------------------- | Progress: ========================= A few more translucent boxes appeared in front of me, but I dismissed them for now since this really wasnt the time. As I made my way to the door, I noticed the father and a guard deep in conversation. I nodded briefly, excused myself, and stepped outside. But before I could get far, the man grabbed my arm, stopping me in my tracks. He still hadnt given up on the idea of owning my phone. His desperation was almost tangible. Sorry, I said, keeping my tone casual. Ive changed my mind. Im not selling it. Hope you can understand, sir. What? But you were--- Yeah, I know. But Im not. I shrugged, starting to walk away. See you. But... wait! You said you were selling it just a minute ago? What changed? Shaking off his hold and leaving his question unanswered, I continued toward the Guild. With all four quests successfully completed, I was feeling pretty good about myself. Checking my phone, I saw that Id only spent fifty-seven minutes running around. Considering how my very first quest went, this was not bad. With the bonus I had gotten from the blacksmith, that brought my total money to eight gold and four silver, with the four gold being in my inventory. Id need to invest in a proper coin pouch soon. Not bad, I muttered, counting the coins before slipping them back into my pocket. Might as well enjoy it while it lasts. With free meals and a bed at the Academys dorms, the gold wasnt burning a hole in my pocket. For once, things were going smoothly. That was a rarity ever since I got dumped into this strange world. As I walked, two guards hurried past, probably heading toward the stables where the news of a murder had spread. Did you hear? I overheard a woman say to her friend. Someone was killed near the well. Elves, right? the friend replied bitterly. Monsters... Im never going outside the walls again. Curse them, the first woman said, her voice laced with fear. Devils! Yeah, curse them! When are we going to get rid of them? Gods Shaking my head at their conversation, I pushed open the Guilds doors and approached the counter. This time, a different clerk sat therea guy with oversized glasses, probably in his mid-thirties. He dropped the papers he was looking at as soon as he saw me approaching. I placed the ring on the counter. Finally, happy that I could wrap this up. Name? he asked, looking from me to the ring.If you encounter this tale on Amazon, note that it''s taken without the author''s consent. Report it. Axel Millo. Ive completed four quests. Four? he repeated, surprised. Are you in a hurry or something? Something like that. He muttered okay, under his breath, reaching under the counter to grab a hefty stack of papers. Sorting through them, he eventually separated the ones with my name on them, skimming through each one. Lost ring, two silver. Cleared the infestation, one silver. Found the blue-tailed rat, one silver. Got the sheep back into the pen, two silver. Thats six silver in total. Sounds right. He counted out the six silver coins, but just as I reached for them, he closed his hand, holding them out of reach. His eyes narrowed as he studied me. Youre not pulling a fast one, are you? he asked, suspicion clear in his tone. These are really done, right? Youve completed all of them? I didnt flinch, meeting his gaze with a calm expression. You can ask the quest-givers if you want. He grunted and slowly opened his hand. I guess Ill go and just do that. I took the coins and stepped back, keeping my eyes on him for a moment longer before turning away. I wasnt angry. I understood why he was cautiousplenty of people probably tried to scam the Guild by claiming to have completed quests they hadnt even started. I sank into a chair and exhaled. With that, I now had four gold and ten silver. Everything was going well, and now that I was done with the quests, I could finally focus on the translucent notification thingy that had been waiting for me. Time to see what it had to offer. =================== | You have reached Level 2! =================== | New Skill: Fireball =================== | HP, STA & MP Restored =================== | Available Ability Points: 3 =================== Staring at the translucent box, I raised an eyebrow. I hadnt expected to get ability points for levelling up, or for my mana to show even a chance of restoration. A small flicker of hope stirred in me; maybe I could eventually cast spells again. Level 2: Axel HP: [] 10/100 Mana: [????????] -1/100 Stamina: [] 100/100 Options: [Inv | Skills | Quests] Ah still at minus one, I muttered, the reality sinking back in. This all felt like something straight out of a game. I couldve used James endless gaming knowledge hereif only Id actually listened when he went on about them, instead of just pretending to pay attention. =================== | Ability Points | | Available: 3 | =================== | [+]Strength: (0) | [+]Agility: (0) | [+]Intelligence: (0) | [+]Constitution: (0) =================== | Confirm Allocation | [Confirm] [Reset] =================== A new box appeared with the [Confirm] option greyed out. If I remembered right, intelligence was tied to spellcasting. But with my mana still in the negatives, it seemed unnecessary to add a point there. Strength tempted me for a momentbut I wasnt planning to get involved in fights with humans, elves, or anything else here. Staying out of trouble felt like the best strategy, so agility seemed the way to go. No need for strength if Im avoiding fights, I murmured, my fingers hovering over the options. Hmm. I assigned two points to agility and one to constitution, then tapped confirm. As soon as I did, a strange sensation swept over me. My body felt lighter, and each breath seemed clearer, almost purer, as though my lungs had been scrubbed clean. It felt weird, yet refreshing. =================== | Ability Points | | Available: 0 | =================== | Strength: (0) | Agility: (2) | Intelligence: (0) | Constitution: (1) =================== Level 2: Axel HP: [?] 100/110 Mana: [????????] -1/100 Stamina: [??] 100/120 Options: [Inv | Skills | Quests] Good, I muttered, flexing my hands as I adjusted to the unfamiliar feeling. Feels different. But good. Nodding to myself, I got up and left the Guild. Now, all I had to do was wait for tomorrow, get my own dorm room at the Academy, and figure out what that giant eye thing was that Id seen at school. I could feel it; I was getting close to escaping this place and returning to my own world. Chapter 25: The Queen In my world, Id seen firsthand how people turned a blind eye to each other. Once, on the bus, I was sitting at the back when I noticed an elderly woman trying to get off through the back door. She moved slowly due to being oldprobably in her eighties. The driver, unaware, assumed shed stepped off and shut the doors, catching her hand between them. She let out faint cries for help, but he didnt hear. The rest of us? We just sat there, watching in silence. I was just relieved it wasnt me that got stuck there. It hit me then how the city had numbed me, made indifference a reflex. Here, though? People offered me free baths, free rides, even helped me with a quest. It was jarring but still, Id choose my city because at least I knew its rules. Hmm. After paying for a room, I counted what I had lefteight gold and seven silver. With no plans for the rest of the day, I figured I might as well attempt a nap. Unfortunately, being an insomniac meant sleep rarely came easily, and I wished for my pills to knock me out. The sun was still high, kids were at school, and I was lying around. It couldve been worse, but here I wassomehow, still alive. "Wish I could charge my phone I muttered, glancing at the screen. The battery was dropping fast, no doubt thanks to all the flashlight use. Maybe I shouldve just sold the thing while it had juice left because, once dead, itd be nothing more than a weight in my pocket. Unless I found a way out of here first. Turning over, I sighed, shutting my eyes to the muffled sounds of people talking and eating downstairs. Sleep really wasnt coming easily. A knock at the door startled me. Hey, its Phobe. Are you sleeping? Phobe? I muttered, swinging my legs over the bed to answer the door. I opened it to find her standing in the hall, her expression anxious, like shed been fretting over something. Hey, honey, she said, apologetically. Sorry to bother, but have you seen Gentle Gerald? Gentle Gerald? I asked, trying to place the name. Yeah, the dog who lazes around here, she explained, concern deepening in her voice. Oh no, sorry. Havent seen him today. Ugh, hes missing. This isnt like him. Hmm, I muttered. Hope you can find him. I heard you found that lost sheep pretty quickly, she went on, hopeful. Think you could help find a dog too? Id make it worth your while, of course. Sure, Ill give it a shot, I replied, a hint of tiredness slipping through. Thank you! Last I saw him, he was headed toward Karmak District to play with the cats. He loves that spot. She said, You might want to check there.If you find this story on Amazon, be aware that it has been stolen. Please report the infringement. I nodded, already mentally preparing for another search. There was another missing dog there. Borado alright, Ill let you know if I come across him. Thank you, really, she said, relief softening her expression before she turned to leave. Shutting the door, I sat on the edge of my bed, slipped on my shoes, and let my cape drape comfortably over my left shoulder. For a moment, I just sat there, gaze resting on the empty wall, eyes half-closed. Eventually, I let out a quiet sigh, took one last look out the window, then stood up. I stepped into the corridor, locked the door, and pocketed the room key. As I headed downstairs, I noticed two guards speaking with Phobe, who was stationed behind the counter, handing them a cold beer. No, honey. No elves here, she said, her voice firm. If I ever see one, Ill be the first to report it, trust me. Good, replied one guard, his helmet glinting as he nodded. Cant be too careful in Kinowa anymore. Little rats might be everywhere. Phobe caught my eye, and I gave her a slight nod before stepping outside, stretching as I adjusted to the blazing afternoon heat. The sun was merciless, and people were fanning themselves while kids played, undeterred by the weather. Back home, it was either cloudy or, well more cloudy. Perfect, I muttered to myself, my voice dull. Just what I need, a sauna. Great Oh, hey! A familiar voice called from my left. Axel! I turned to see Mortan waving. Hey, Mortan, I replied, noting the impressive sword he was holding. You doing alright, kid? he asked, shifting the weight of the sword. It was a beautywell-crafted, almost regal. Getting by, I said, eyeing the blade. Thats some sword youve got there. Ah, yeah, he chuckled, holding it up so the light caught the details along the blade. This ones a delivery for the Queen herself, all the way to the Queens Palace. Had to close the shop for this. Normally, my son would run deliveries like these, but hes still at school. Hmm. Mortan reached into his pocket and held out a piece of parchment. Actually think you could take it to her for me? This paper should help get you inside. What do you say, eh? Normally, I wouldnt jump at the chance to help anyone, especially without a reward. But Mortan had gotten me out of the forest. I figured I owed him this much at least. I took the sword and examined it closely. The blade was polished to a mirror-like sheen, runes etched along its length. The hilt was wrapped in fine, deep blue leather, with a polished silver crossguard that gave the weapon a noble appearance, as though crafted for royalty. Credit where credit is due, he did a good job making this sword. Alright, I said, accepting the weapon and the parchment. Thanks, boy, he replied, nodding approvingly. Now, remember, when you get to the throne room, kneel on one knee, hold the sword by both blade and hilt, and lift it into the air. And whatever you do, dont make eye contact with Her Highness. Understood? I nodded. Got it. Good. Catch you later, then oh, I almost forgot. Which class are you in? F. I replied curtly. I got free room, though. Free? F doesnt get free rooms. Its one or two gold a month, can''t remember." Oh Well, anyway. Congratulations. See you, kid. Watching him walk away, I let out a breath, the weight of the sword solid in my grip. It gleamed under the bright sunlight, making the usual guard swords look like they were crafted from scrap metal in comparison. I had a feeling this one could take down a tree with a single swing. "Guess finding that dog will have to wait," I muttered, unfolding the map from my pocket. I traced my finger over to the Queens Palace, a district away. Alright, lets get this over with. Chapter 26: Three blocks away The palace was just a few blocks away from the Academy, and I made my way toward it with the sword held carefully in one hand, hoping I wouldnt drop it. People stared as I passed, eyes widening at the sight of the polished blade. Some nudged their friends, while guards gave approving nods, almost as if to say, Thats impressive. Even kids pointed it out to their mothers. This sort of attention grated on me, but at least it was directed more at the sword than me. Oi, a guard stepped into my path, his voice stopping me. Where are you going with that sword, lad? To the Queen, I answered plainly. Delivering this on behalf of Mortan. Ah, thats Mortans blade, alright, the other guard remarked, nodding. Are you running errands instead of his son? Yeah. His sons at school, I replied. Wait, why arent you in school? he asked, eyeing me curiously. You should be at Redwood Academy. Its the law. Ill be starting tomorrow, I said. I just enrolled today. Alright then. Youre clear, he grunted, stepping aside. Hmm. That little exchange reminded me of how little I knew about this placeits rulers, its customs, or how it stood with nearby kingdoms. Id been so focused on escaping that Id overlooked the basics. Pulling the cape around me, I covered most of the sword to avoid drawing more stares. Only the tip peeked out by my knee, and the hilt rested discreetly against my shoulder. Thats better, I murmured. Hello, mister, a voice called from behind, making me pause. I turned to see that kid from the tavernthe one whod asked about my bullet wound. He looked up at me with wide eyes. Oh hey, I greeted, slightly surprised. Sorry, forgot your name. Gabriel, he replied, keeping pace as I started moving again. Shouldnt you be in school? I asked, raising an eyebrow. Its past three. Schools out, he answered, then added, Have you seen a dog around? Missing one leg? A dog? I asked, recalling the quest in the Guild. Was it your family who reported it? My sister did, Gabriel said with a nod. She says he ran away but I dont think thats true. I paused, realising I needed to stick to the story. Hmm. Tough luck. Gabriel didnt seem convinced. I asked the Guild worker who reported it, and he said it was youa guy with a weird scar on his head. Smart kid. At his age, Id been too preoccupied with my own worries to even think about solving mysteries. He was already piecing things together like a junior detective. Made me wonder if the Guild worker was bending the rules by sharing my details.Unauthorized use: this story is on Amazon without permission from the author. Report any sightings. Yeah, that was me, I admitted, with a dull voice. How did you know he ran away? he pressed, his eyes narrowing. I kept my tone calm. Someone saw him chasing a squirrel while a guard was letting a woman through the gate. Your dog slipped past, probably got lost outside. Im sorry, kid. Gabriels shoulders sagged, his eyes dropping to the ground. Oh Hey, I said, glancing back as he slowed to a stop. Dont worry. Youre a strong kid. Youll be alright. Th-thank you, mister he murmured softly, his voice trailing off as he lingered on the path. With a nod, I turned away and kept walking, letting the moment settle in the afternoons heat. TTTTTT?TTTTTT Norman District was farther than it looked on the map, and I found myself taking more breaks than expected. The sword seemed to grow heavier with each step, and my legs were starting to ache. By the time I was within a couple of blocks, my breath was short, and my patience was wearing thin. I spotted a bench and collapsed onto it, leaning the sword against my side with a sigh. It felt strange to be this tired from just walking, but the weight of the sword and the lingering pain in my leg were wearing me down. So hot, I muttered, wiping my brow. I miss cloudy weather After a quick break, I forced myself up and continued onward. With each step, the surroundings became more elegant. Luxurious houses were sprawling, multi-story structures, and people dressed in clothes I hadnt seen anywhere else. Even the pavement beneath my feet had a polished look, like even the ground itself was made to show off wealth. Finally, the entrance to Norman District came into view, flanked by two guards standing between two imposing houses. They were turning away anyone who looked less than affluent, even denying a kid whod chased his ball toward the entrance. Halt, one of the guards ordered, blocking my path. What business do you have in Norman? I have a delivery, I replied, handing over the parchment Mortan had given me. Here. The guard unfolded the paper and scanned it with a scrutinizing gaze. Hm. Youll want to deliver this to the Queen''s Palace. Go ahead. You may pass. Thanks, sir, I said, reaching to take back the paper. Hold on, not so fast. He stepped closer. Gonna need to pat you down first. Got any weapons on you? N-no, I stammered, standing still as he roughly patted me down. If I wanted to attack someone Id just use this sword He found my phone, examining it in his hand, tapping at the screen and shaking it slightly. After a moment, he seemed to decide it wasnt a threat and returned his attention to me. Alright, you can go through, he said, still holding my phone. Whats this thing, though? Wait, arent I getting that back? I dont know what it is, he replied, shrugging. Not letting you through with it. But---fine. Just keep it safe, alright? The guard scoffed, tucking the phone away. Keeping things safe is my job. You dont need to remind me, kid. Hmm Stepping past him, I was greeted by the sight of an open square with a massive fountain at its centre. Atop the fountain stood a statue of a man in a crown, his swords tip resting on the ground while his hands gripped the hilt. Around the square, finely-dressed people strolled by, and every stall displayed high-quality waresjewellery, rich fabrics, and fresh produce, all with a hefty price tag, no doubt. Not a single homeless person in sight, like in the other districts, and every home lining the square had an air of richness to it. Wow, I muttered, taking in the scene. Thats rich. Grabbing the map from my back pocket, I followed a path toward the Queen''s Palace and then rolled it back up. I was closejust three blocks away. Hmm, I grunted. So tired Chapter 27: Not a one I walked over to the fountain, watching as small birds chirped along the edges, some splashing and shaking off the water. Circling around the fountain, I let my gaze wander before refocusing on the path ahead. The Queen''s Palace wasnt far, and keeping royalty waiting probably wasnt the smartest move. I adjusted my belt with one hand, making sure the sword rested securely on my shoulder. In this upscale part of town, people barely glanced my way, likely used to seeing high-quality items. Still, I gripped the hilt tightly, imagining the trouble I''d be in if I accidentally dropped it. Nearby, a guard was questioning a jewellery merchant---probably because of elves. Seen any elves around here? he asked. We have reports that some pointy-eared cunts have been spotted. In Norman? No, sir, not a one, the merchant replied quickly. Keep an eye out. These are dangerous times, the guard warned, his tone low. If you see one, steer clear and call for us. Yes, of course. Gods protect us from them, the merchant muttered, looking genuinely rattled. As I walked past, I caught snippets of another conversation drifting from a stall nearby, where two well-dressed women were examining ornate vases. It seemed like the fear and distrust of elves reached every corner of this society, even here in Norman. How do elves even get in here? the blue-eyed woman asked, shaking her head. Whats the point of paying more in taxes if they can still sneak around? Ah, darling, elves can even trick a god, her friend replied, rolling her eyes dramatically. It was only a matter of time before one ended up in our precious district. What a joke, her friend scoffed. The Queens doing her best to rid Nutar of them, gods bless her name. All we can do is pray she succeeds. I kept my head down and moved along, realising just how deep the resentment went. From what Id seen, both humans and elves seemed capable of causing harm to innocent people. Trying to figure out who was right was a waste of time; it felt like stepping into a mess that no amount of reason could untangle. Best to steer clear. Turning a corner, I glanced up at the sky. Not a cloud in sight. The heat was intense, and even the occasional breeze did little to cool things down. At this rate, you could probably crack an egg on the street and itd cook. Behind me, another conversation reached my ears, two women gossiping as they walked. Did you hear about Natashas dog? one woman said, her voice thick with concern. Apparently, it ran off. Oh, poor thing. She should go to the Guild and post a quest for it, her friend replied. Shed never set foot outside Norman for that. Says the dog isnt worth sullying her reputation.If you spot this tale on Amazon, know that it has been stolen. Report the violation. Wait, I thought she loved that dog? her friend asked, sounding a bit surprised. Not as much as her pride, it seems, I muttered under my breath, quickening my pace to escape the overheard chatter. Guess some things never change, even in a different world. Nice to know rich people are still rich people. TTTTTT?TTTTTT There it stood, the Queens Palace, an imposing five-story structure shaped in a broad "?." Its symmetry was almost mesmerising, with each wing mirroring the other, featuring rows of arched windows that gave glimpses of lavish interiors. A wide path ran down the middle, leading straight to the grand entrance, bordered by vibrant blooms that created a dazzling carpet of colours. The front garden sprawled, even larger than Redwood Academys grounds, filled with unfamiliar trees that twisted and spread in every direction. Various flowers lined the walkways, while a large clock sat atop the palace, ticking quietly. Guards were stationed everywhereat the gates, near the flower beds, and along the paths. Hmm, I muttered, approaching the front gate. Nearby, a modest tavern stood close enough to the palace to draw glances, though it was at least fifty steps back. Through its sparkling windows, I caught a glimpse of patrons enjoying their meals and drinks, clearly unfazed by the palaces shadow. Several carriages trundled by, their horses remarkably well-groomed, muscular, and clearly well-fed. Even the armour the horses had looked expensive. As I neared the palace entrance, two guards flanking the gate raised their swords slightly, motioning for me to halt. I complied, holding out the sword and the papers Mortan had given me. One guard stepped closer, examining the document, then shared a quick nod with his companion. The wait was getting tedious with all these security checks. You may enter, one of them finally said, his tone firm. Follow me. Yes, sir, I replied, ready to move forward. We walked through the palace garden toward the entrance, the path flanked by guards who stood silent and stoic, watching me intently from behind their helmets. As we reached the main doors, the guards stationed there stepped aside, granting us entry. Inside, the Queens Palace was grand and ornate. A vast hall stretched before me, its polished marble floors reflecting the sunlight streaming through enormous stained-glass windows. Elegant chandeliers hung from the high ceilings, casting a soft glow across the spacious room. Along the walls were towering statues of past rulers---probably, each one carved from dark stone and featured golden accents. Guards were stationed around the room, standing at attention near each door and staircase. Plush red carpets led up to several grand staircases, each one curving upward. This way, my escort instructed, nodding toward the nearest spiral staircase. I gave a quick nod, following him up the winding steps, keeping my expression neutral.. I wondered, half-regretfully, what might have happened if Mortan hadnt spotted me back at the tavernperhaps Id still be on the hunt for that missing dog, Gentle Gerald. Hell, I wished I hadnt gone to the restroom at school. If I hadnt, maybe I wouldnt have been teleported to this strange world. I wouldnt have to deal with the giant eye staring down at me from the sky. I could be at home right now, lounging around and listening to James rant about the stock market on the phone. Reaching the top of the stairs, we stopped in front of an ornate door, its surface shining as though made of solid gold. The guard rapped on the door and turned to me, his gaze serious. Our Queen has been a bit on edge for a few days. I hope this sword will lift her spirits, he said. Elves? Yeah. Those damned bastards and their Come in! a voice called from inside. Ah, okay, the guard replied. Are you ready? Uh-huh, I said, taking a steadying breath. Im ready. Chapter 28: A joke As the doors creaked open, I took a deep breath and stepped inside, keeping my head tilted down, just as Id been instructedmuch like those old days when my teacher would scold me for daydreaming. I caught glimpses of polished marble floors, the faint glint of gold fixtures, as my head was down, I wasnt able to see much. In front of me, towering steps led up to the Queens throne. I couldnt see much of her figure clearly with my head down, but I felt her presence in the hush of the room, as if her gaze alone commanded the entire space. Okay I thought to myself. Calm down, Ax. Finally, I reached the steps, dropping to one knee and lifting the sword toward her with both hands. "Your Highness," I announced, my voice echoing against the towering walls, a gift from Mortan, the blacksmith. Nothing. The silence wrapped around me, stretching the moment longer than Id expected. All I could hear was her faint breathing and the sound of her clothing shifting on the throne. I started to wonder if maybe I should have found a way out of Mortan''s request after all. A simple excuse like, Im in a hurry, couldve done the trick. My eyes drifted up ever so slightly, enough to catch the subtle movement of the Queen standing. I instantly dropped my gaze back down, inhaling and then exhaling slowly, trying to steady the anticipation building in my chest. That garment you wear, she said, her voice strong yet calm, was Phobes sons, wasnt it? Yes, Your Highness. I kept my tone steady, careful not to reveal any hint of discomfort. He was a good man, she continued, stood against an elf raid on a village and saved forty-six lives. Died as a hero. I didnt know that, Your Highness, I replied sincerely. He must have been a brave man. Her footsteps echoed softly on the floor as she descended toward me. Her gown brushed against the ground with a sweep, its fabric layered and regal, trimmed with silver stitching that glistened faintly even in the muted light. Her attire was elegant, fitting for a queen, yet it bore a simplicity that spoke of command over any extravagance. Her fingers glided along the swords blade before she wrapped one hand around the hilt, lifting it from my grasp. A fine piece of work, she noted, examining it with a keen eye. Are you Mortans new delivery boy? Mortan he helped me out quite a bit, I replied, choosing my words carefully. Im just repaying the favor. She clicked her tongue, a small smirk tugging at the edge of her lips. Youre kneeling with the wrong foot, she observed, not unkindly. Didnt Mortan teach you the correct way to behave in the throne room?Reading on this site? This novel is published elsewhere. Support the author by seeking out the original. Ohright, I mumbled, quickly switching my stance. Apologies, Your Highness. Too late for that, she quipped, her expression unreadable. Have his head. I snapped my gaze up in shock, trying to make sense of her words. It was my first real glimpse of her face: long, golden hair framing piercing blue eyes, a gaze that was intense yet amused, a mouth that held just a hint of a mischievous smile. She was the sort of woman my friend James would call a divine milf with huge rack, But her eyesthey were sharp, scanning me with the precision of someone who missed nothing. Our eyes met, and that fleeting smirk widened as she raised the sword, her hand steady as she swung it. The tip missed my nose by a fraction. A joke, she said, her gaze unwavering. Even Queens are allowed to make jokes. Y-yes, I stammered, swallowing as I lowered my head back down. A joke of course. "Tell Mortan I appreciate his gift," the Queen continued, her voice firm. She held out a small dagger, its edge blunt. "And make sure he sharpens this. Its gone dull." "Yes, Your Highness." I took the dagger, then fumbled to open the sheath at my belt. My fingers scrambled over the unfamiliar straps, and cold sweat started formingnot so much from embarrassment, but from the weight of her earlier words about having my head, still lingering in my mind. I could feel the pressure building, something Id never usually succumb to, but I guessed a whole other world had its ways of chipping at me. The Queen leaned down and iIn my peripheral vision, I caught sight of her cleavage as her gown dipped with her movement, but I quickly snapped my eyes back to the floor. This was different. With a calm smile, she reached down, deftly undoing the sheath with ease. Grateful, I managed to slide the dagger into it properly this time. "Thank you, Your Highness." She waved a hand dismissively, returning to her throne. "You may go. And dont lose that dagger, alright? Or Ill really have your head this time. Understood, Your Highness." I gave a small bow, stood up, and quickly made my way toward the door. The guard stationed there pulled it open for me, and I stepped through with a deep sigh of relief. This whole ordeal had been far more challenging than Id anticipated. There was no way Id ever set foot in the Queens Palace again if I could help it. No more strange quests. No more debts. This wasnt my world, and it was time I focused on finding a way home. The guard whod escorted me signaled for me to follow, and I gladly fell in behind him, grateful this bizarre sword-delivery mission was finally over. Maybe now I could look for Gentle Gerald, Phobes lost dog, and end the day with something simpler. "So, how did it go?" he asked, raising an eyebrow. Intense, I replied, keeping my tone flat. She threatened to have my head if I lose the dagger she gave me. He nodded, a flicker of amusement on his face. Ah, her dagger collection. That one belonged to her father. She cherishes her blades more than any jewels. Has a room full of swords she treasures. Hmm We finally exited through the front entrance and headed toward the gates. The afternoon sun still beat down, the heat somehow even thicker than before. As we reached the main gates, the guard gave a nod and returned to his post. I stepped through, feeling the tension start to ease from my shoulders. With the sword delivered, I could finally focus on the last task of the dayfinding Gentle Gerald. At least that wouldnt involve me nearly getting my head taken off. "You''re good to go," the guard at the gate said, giving me a nod. "Safe travels, kid." "Thanks," I murmured with a relieved exhale. "Appreciate it." Chapter 29: Risky Taking my phone from the guard, I slipped it into my pocket and started toward the district where Gentle Gerald liked to wander. The air was finally cooling a bit, just enough to make my walk bearable. I pulled out the dagger and looked it over. It didnt seem dull to me, though I wasnt exactly an expert. I was the guy who ordered takeout, barely touching the kitchen unless I had to. The only time I''d been forced to cook was when my mom was so out of it from drugs she couldn''t lift a finger. Id made us a quick snack once, only to slice my finger trying to cut bread. I definitely wasnt chef material. Citizen, a guard interrupted, eyeing the dagger in my hand. Sheath that blade. Youre making folks nervous. I stopped, sliding the dagger back. "My apologies." He nodded curtly, scanning the crowd. Have you seen any elves around here? We suspect theyre aiming for our Queen. Gods bless her name. I shook my head. No, sir what happened with that murder near the forest well? Were still investigating. Leads are thin. Right. I hope you catch whoevers responsible. My voice came out flat, disinterested. We will. His gaze sharpened. Keep that dagger in the sheath. Now, move along. Yes, sir. He moved on, joining another guard nearby. As I resumed my walk, a sudden gasp caught my attention. I turned to see two men dragging a hooded woman from a nearby tavern. They forced her to her knees, one of them yanking her hood back, revealing her pointed ears and pale skin. An elf. Guards! one of the men yelled, his voice thick with pride. We caught one! Damn elf! spat the guard whod just spoken to me. He stormed over, striking the elf with the back of his hand. She crumpled to the ground, and the men who captured the poor woman kicked her as if it was sport, the hatred in their faces all too clear. "Whered you find her?" the guard asked, looking at the two men. She tried to rent a room, sneered one of them. She had a kid with her, but he ran off through the back door. Good enough, the guard replied, smirking. Well find him soon enough. No, please, dont hurt him! the elf pleaded, clutching the hem of the guards clothes. Please! He roughly yanked her away, staring down at her. Were not monsters like your kind, he spat. We dont rape or torture. We give merciful deaths. Hes just a child! she screamed, her voice desperate. Please! Child? The guards expression darkened. Humans have children. Not your kind. You have monsters. She tried to protest, but he slapped her hard, cutting her off mid-sentence. Another guard approached, this one helmetless, grinning with malice. An elf, huh? Yeah, the first guard responded. Ill send word to prepare the execution grounds. Perfect, the new guard replied, yanking the elf to her feet with a twisted grin. Ill bring the monster out. I watched the whole scene, my expression neutral. As they marched her away, our eyes met briefly. In that moment, I had one single thought: Glad that wasnt me. TTTTTT?TTTTTT The walk to the Karmak district was tense. Guard presence had clearly increased, and people were more on edge than ever. Conversations drifted past me, snippets of hushed voices debating the murder in the forest and their growing resentment toward elves. This endless cycle of hatred was becoming senseless, only fueling more damage on both sides. Rounding a corner, I pulled out my map and double-checked it. A shop sign behind me read No-Lala, just as it did on the maps depiction of Karmak district. Alright, Gentle Gerald, I murmured under my breath. Where are you hiding? I started down the cobbled street, scanning the alleys and glancing at every shadow, hoping to catch a glimpse of Phobes dog. I vaguely remembered something about a strange P mark on his body.This novel is published on a different platform. Support the original author by finding the official source. I spotted a man walking nearby and stepped in front of him, giving a slight wave. Hey, sorry to bother you. Im looking for a dog with a P mark on its body. Seen anything? The man gave me a quick once-over, frowning. Cant say I have. My own dog went missing here, too. They say it ran off. Mans best friend, huh? Doesnt feel like it right now. Right, I replied, offering a sympathetic nod. Well, thanks anyway. Good luck, kid, he muttered, already walking away. I continued down the street, stopping briefly at a narrow alley with an old homeless man dozing on a dirty pillow. He seemed peaceful enough, so I quietly backed out and wandered further down to another alley, just as empty, except for some litter blowing around in the wind. After pushing through another few alleys, I stepped out into a small clearing, where a tall statue of the Queen watched over the square. Around her, small vendors sold trinkets, worn swords, and glittering jewellery. I spotted a woman rearranging items on her blanket display and approached her. Hi, I said politely, sorry for interrupting, but have you seen an older dog with a P marking? She paused, tapping her chin as if trying to recall. Older dog... No, dont think Ive seen him. But you could try asking that man. She nodded toward a stall across the way, where a burly man stood over a display of shields and daggers. With a nod of thanks, I crossed over to the stall, hoping this lead might get me closer to finding the dog. Hello, sorry for bothering, I greeted him. Have you seen a dog with a P mark on its back? The man scratched the back of his head, glancing up at the sky as if trying to rewind his memory. Maybe yeah, I think I saw one like that last night, just outside that tavern. He gestured to a building down the street with a lazy nod. Are you certain? I asked, holding his gaze. Of course. My stalls open day and nightI see a lot come and go. I let out a small sigh of relief. Thank you. That helps a lot. No problem, boy. Be safe. I made my way to the tavern the man pointed out, realising it was the same one Id visited to ask about Gabriels dog. Theyd said the dog was attacked, injured so badly that it didnt make it. I could only hope theyd help me track down Gentle Gerald this timethis whole thing was starting to feel like an endless chase. I stood outside the door, taking a quick glance around before stepping inside. The place was quiet, empty except for an older woman standing behind the counter and a younger woman, maybe late twenties, wiping a glass beside her. Hello. I approached them, my voice steady. Maybe you remember me. I was here looking for a lost dog. The older woman squinted, recognition sparking in her eyes. Yes vaguely. Which dog was it? I frowned, catching her tone. Which? Are that many dogs coming through here? No, the younger woman chimed in, setting her towel aside, but dogs have been going missing up and down the street. All over Kinowa, really. Ours went missing too. A weight settled in my stomach. Any idea why? The younger woman hesitated, glancing at her mother. Well, it--- No, the older woman cut in quickly. Its dangerous, Suzan. Weve discussed this. Ignoring her mothers warning, Suzan went on, her voice dropping. Elves. Theyre taking the dogs. I saw it myselfan elf living in one of the back alleys. I saw him grab a dog and a cat and slip away toward the exit. My eyes narrowed. When did this happen? They always do it at night, right after the patrol shifts. She spoke with certainty. I saw his pointy ears and everything. It was definitely an elf. The mother shifted, clenching her hands as she shared a wary glance with her daughter. They were holding something back; the air between them practically hummed with unspoken words. It was something---evil? So why didnt you tell the guards? I pressed, leaning in. If theres more going on here, I need to know. I just want to find the dogs. The mother looked away, then finally murmured, We we gave him food, a blanket, even some water. The elf had a little sister with him, and we couldnt bring ourselves to turn him in. And Suzan continued, choosing her words carefully, we just couldnt let them die. So Gabriels dog, I clarified, the elf wounded it and ran? The mother looked puzzled, but Suzan nodded slowly. Yes, it was hurt when we found it. We tried to help, but it was too late. The mother sighed, muttering something under her breath. Too old to deal with all these elves Suzan glanced at her mother, a stubborn set to her jaw. Mom, I can go check that place I mentioned. Youre worrying so much No, the mother said firmly, her voice steely. Youre not going there alone. Absolutely not. What place? I asked, picking up on their tension. Suzan looked at me, a mix of hesitation and determination in her eyes. One night, I worked up the courage to follow that elf. Hes been bringing the dogs to a small hut in the forest. I turned back before I could do anything about it. I could tell the guards---but if they found out wed been helping him and his sister, wed be in serious trouble. Hmm. She looked at me, her gaze pleading. Would you come with me? If youre there, maybe my mom will finally let me go. I shook my head. This sounds way too risky just for a dog. Well pay, she offered quickly, her eyes desperate. Two gold. How about it? I tapped my chin, weighing it. It felt foolish to risk my neck for a dog, but two gold could go a long way for supplies, and if I was going to survive here, that might be worth it. I let out a resigned sigh, nodding. Alright. Lets go find those dogs. Chapter 30: Hilarious I sat at a nearby table to wait for Suzan, pulling out my phone and swiping through random screens, not really focused on anything. Doubts crept inthis whole forest trip sounded riskier by the second. I almost considered apologising and just walking away. But that two gold reward was too tempting. Itd cover one or two months of dorm rent at the Academy, and with the little I had left, I could finally buy essentialslike a dagger or something to defend myself. Kinowa wasnt a place to wander around without protection, and it wasn''t like I could get pepper spray here. Just then, Suzan emerged from a back room, now draped in a long robe that covered most of her. She walked over with a slight nod. I pushed myself up from the table, brushing off my clothes with a sigh. Ugh She said, holding her hand up. Stupid painting cut my finger again. Painting? Huh? Oh, just forget it. Hmm So---were good to go. Her voice was quiet but determined. Alright. Lead the way. Suzan gave a faint smile. I really hope my dogs still out there I muttered an acknowledgment, watching as she held the door open for me to step outside. Not much of a talker, are you? she teased as I passed through. Nah. Just I dont have much to say, I replied, glancing around the crowded street. Suzan chuckled as she closed the door behind us. Thats the very definition of not much of a talker, isnt it? Guess so, I replied with a dull tone as we started walking. After a few quiet steps, she turned slightly. So whats your name? Ax, I answered simply. Interesting name. Nice to meet you, Ax, she said, picking up the pace. Likewise. The silence didnt last long. Why arent you in school? she asked, making an effort to keep the conversation going. Just enrolled today, I said, feeling her curious gaze linger. Feels like an interrogation. She let out a small laugh. Just trying to make the walk a little less awkward. The forests a bit of a trek. Rounding a corner, I followed a few steps behind. How far is that cabin, anyway? Fifteen minutes maybe twenty. She paused, recalling. When I followed that elf there, I chickened out halfway and ran back. Took five minutes, tops. Yeah, Id rather walk, I replied dryly. Same here. She kept pace, glancing back with a grin. Which class are you in? F. She raised an eyebrow, letting out a low whistle. If my mom knew you were in F, she probably wouldnt trust you to go with me.Ensure your favorite authors get the support they deserve. Read this novel on the original website. I shrugged. Guess Im lucky she didnt ask. Guess so, she replied with a smirk. Must mean your mana pools pretty bad. No offense. But hey, I was in Class D, so I cant really talk. Is it true Class F has to pay for dorms? Yep, she nodded, a little too enthusiastically. Two gold coins a month, I think. And meals arent included... I think?" I grunted, doing some quick calculations in my head. Is there free healthcare, at least? Free what? She glanced over her shoulder, frowning. Oh! Nope, nothing like that here. Student loans, no free healthcare, discrimination I muttered under my breath. Feels just like home. What was that? Nothing, I said, brushing it off. Lets keep moving. Suzan scoffed and quickened her pace, her expression clearly saying shed had enough of the back-and-forth. I picked up my stride, staying just a step behind her. Beneath her robe, I couldnt tell if she was carrying a weapon; not the smartest choice if wed run into trouble. I still had the Queens dagger, but using it here was too riskyI didnt want to risk damaging it. If we were heading into the forest with nothing but bare hands, this was going to be sketchy. Suzan glanced over her shoulder, catching me looking her way. She raised an eyebrow, probably thinking I was being a pervert since I was checking where her belt would be under that robe. Teenagers, she muttered, rolling her eyes. I shook my head. Nah, I was just checking if you had any weapons. She smiled, reaching under her robe to reveal a slim dagger at her belt. Wouldnt be out here without this little beauty. I gave a brief nod. Good to know. We continued walking, slipping past the open city gate. She tilted her head, curious. So any family? The question caught me off guard. I took a moment before answering, keeping up the story Id been telling. Theyve been dead for ten years. I was all alone when those goblins attacked my village. She let out a low hum, clearly surprised. Heard something about goblins hitting a village. So you were there? Living by yourself? Yeah. I kept my tone flat, hoping shed let the topic drop. Thats illegal, isnt it? she asked, clearly not letting it go. Every kid your age has to be in school, learning magic and all. And the closest school is here in Kinowa. I sighed, steering the conversation away. Lets talk about something else. How about you? You were in Class D, right? She groaned, slumping her shoulders a bit. Dont remind me. School days were a nightmare. Hmm. You wont ask why? No. Huh. Wow. What a jerk. As we made our way toward that tavern with the uniform displayed on its wall, I noticed the woman Id helped with her runaway sheep standing nearby, chatting with a young boy who looked like her son. She caught my eye and gave a friendly wave. Oh, hey. Thanks for finding my sheep, kid. I nodded back. Hmm. No problem, maam. She smiled warmly. Thank you again! Much appreciated. Suzan muttered under her breath, So it was you I raised an eyebrow. Hmm? Suzan stifled a grin. Id heard about some guy wandering out of the forest, baaing like a sheep to lead it home. Never thought it was you. I kept my face neutral. I wasnt baaing. Oh, baaahck off, she shot back, barely holding back a smirk. Or Ill baaahckhand you. I gave her a flat look. Hilarious. Just kidding, she said, laughing lightly as she continued walking. Why are you so I don''t know, stone-faced, anyway? Not once has your expression changed. Its like talking to a wall. Then how about we keep quiet? I offered, picking up the pace to stay level with her. She shook her head, amused. You dont know how to talk to a lady, do you? So much to learn, young one. Hmm. Suzan waved her hand in dismissal, finally giving me some peace. Anyway, come onfive, maybe ten more minutes of walking and were there. Got it. I murmured, falling into step behind her. TTTTTT?TTTTTT Chapter 31: Time helps As we moved deeper into the forest, the confidence Id felt in the tavern drained with every step. The tall, shadowy trees seemed to lean in, casting long shadows. I didnt need the gold that badly, and I sure didnt need to be risking my neck for a stray dog. Yet here I was, helping Phobe locating her pet out in the forest. Death wasnt the issuedying stupidly was. Id prefer not to end up as a cautionary tale, like choking on dinner or getting mauled over a dog or getting eaten alive by a damn flower. Suzan suddenly stopped and sank down onto a tree stump, taking a moment to catch her breath. Noticing her pause, I leaned against a nearby tree, crossing my arms. I wasnt exhausted, but the dull ache in my leg was a reminder of the last close call Id had in these woods. Were close, she said, her voice a little winded as she unclipped her dagger. But you know, Ive never actually used this thing. I raised a brow. The dagger? She nodded, twisting the hilt thoughtfully. Yeah. Never needed it before. But now what if that elfs still around? Then we turn back. Run if we have to, I replied simply. Suzan shook her head, slipping the dagger back into its sheath. If it werent for my dog, Id be home right now. I swear. I shifted, changing the subject. So why did you start helping that elf and his sister? She paused, scratching her head as she considered. They looked weak, vulnerable. I felt sorry for them, so I started sharing food, blankets But then, when I saw them taking the dogs I had to stop. I didnt realize theyd do that. Are elves really as bad as everyone says? I asked, watching her expression shift. Her face darkened. From what I saw yes. Theyre monsters, plain and simple. I was stupid, thinking they could be different. I grunted, glancing up at the fading sunlight. We should keep moving. Suns setting. She followed my gaze, nodding. Right. Last thing we need is to get caught out here after dark. We continued down the trail, natures noises around us shifting with the dimming light. Id never been fond of the outdoors, maybe because Id grown up surrounded by the concrete jungle, skyscrapers boxing me in on all four. My mom used to take me out for school picnics when I was a kid, back when she was still herself, not hooked on drugs. Shed constantly warn me about bugs and plants, like they were lurking dangers out to get me. One bite could kill you, or This plant can paralyse you. Maybe thats where it startedmy unease around nature, born from her paranoia. I wondered if Id feel differently if Id grown up without her fears pressing into me, but I pushed the thought aside before it could drag me further down. Suzan brushed off her clothes as she got up, looking at me thoughtfully. Hey, she asked, out of the blue, if you died would anyone care? Like, would anyone really mourn you? Hmm?Support creative writers by reading their stories on Royal Road, not stolen versions. She shrugged, hands in her pockets as we resumed walking. I ask myself that a lot. For me its just my mom. Shed be heartbroken, but thats it. My friends? Theyd move on. They all have other people to lean on Sometimes I feel like Im just alone. My mother wouldve cared, I answered, not meeting her eyes. Was she a good mom? she asked, stepping around a fallen branch. Mine is. I paused, choosing my words carefully. She wasnt perfect. Better than nothing, I guess. Suzan glanced over. When you said she was gone you didnt sound too upset. Didnt it hit you hard? Id be lost if anything happened to my mom. I was upset, I replied, more to myself than her. But time helps. I learned that. She stepped over a log, shaking her head. Time thats fine for people who have it. What about those who dont? Who doesnt have time? I asked, stepping over the same log. Me, maybe? Im tied up at that tavern almost every hour of every day. Im so busy I barely have time to scratch my ass. Hmm. Suzan snorted. Not the chatty type, huh? I kept my face neutral, shrugging slightly. We had this conversation already. Right. She said, smiling. You are so boring. Hmm. TTTTTT?TTTTTT Suzan parted the tall grasses, revealing a small, weathered cabin tucked within the trees and surrounded by vibrant flowers. The place seemed quietno sign of elves or danger. Just Suzan and I, crouched low in the grass, studying the scene like some kind of amateur spies. Id never imagined myself sneaking around like this; this world was really pulling me out of my comfort zone. She glanced back at me, worry etched on her face, hesitation flickering in her eyes. Her expression mirrored my own thoughtswe could still turn back. If that elf was inside, wed be in serious trouble. Should we go back? Her voice was barely a whisper, her eyes scanning the cabin nervously. I shrugged, voice low. Up to you. After a moments pause, she steeled herself. No we came this far. We can do it. I bet the elves arent even in there. Well just get in, grab the dogs, and go if theyre still alive. I gave her a nod, feeling a bit more determined. Alright. With her hand wrapped tightly around her dagger, she took a deep breath. Just in case, she muttered, holding it like a lifeline. I clenched my fists, trying to steady the tremor in my hands as we crept closer to the cabin, every step making my heart race faster. My fingers hovered near the dagger the Queen had given me, my focus narrowing to the cabin ahead while everything else faded into the background. We finally emerged from the grasses and flattened ourselves against the cabins weathered wood. Inside, I could make out faint whimpering soundsdogs, hopefullybut otherwise, the place seemed deserted. Suddenly, Suzans hand landed on my shoulder, and I nearly jumped out of my skin, barely stifling a gasp. I hadnt expected her touch, especially in my agitated state. My heart did a nosedive. She gave me a concerned look. Your face doesnt show it, but youre trembling, she whispered, her voice softer than before. You can stay back if you want. Let me handle it. I took a shaky breath. No, Im Im alright. Her eyes narrowed, unconvinced. You sure? Youre practically sweating like a bull. Forget about me, I replied, shaking my head to clear it. Lets just get this over with and head back to the city. She offered a faint smile and gave my shoulder a quick pat. Alright. Weve got this. Chapter 32: Sleep tight I recalled sneaking into the kitchen as a kid, slipping past the door my mom had barred. She used to tell me fasting would make me healthier, that it would keep me safe, unlike my sister. But I knew it was her paranoia mixed with the drugs she was on. Every morning shed hand me pills, and every night, more of the same. Watching tutorials online, I learned to pick locks, got good at it too. That allowed me to enter the kitchen and swipe snacks, even swapping those pills with gum. Ten-year-old me was more rebellious and smart than Id realised. Clear, Suzan whispered, glancing through the cabin window. There are dogs. Multiple. All chained up. I tried the door and muttered a quiet curse. Locked. I could use a wind spell and blow it open, she offered, casting a hopeful glance. I considered it, then shook my head. What if elves are nearby? We could be giving ourselves away. She huffed, pacing with her hand on her chin. Then what do we do? Wait a second. I crouched by the door, examining the lock closely, and took out my phone to shine a light into the keyhole. The flashlight helped reveal the inner mechanismsimple enough if I could get the right angle. Suzan peered over my shoulder, eyes widening. What is that? she asked, more intrigued than alarmed. Ignoring her question, I muttered, Think I can work this one. She quickly handed me a small bundle of paper. Here. Try these. I unwrapped it to find a few lockpicking tools and got to work, focusing on the lock while Suzan kept watch. Her eyes scanned the forest, her posture tense. The stress was getting to both of us Suddenly, we both jumped at the sound of rustling behind us, only to spot a rabbit staring back at us with wide, innocent eyes. She groaned. That freaked me out. I stayed silent, concentrating on the lock. Suzan kept glancing over her shoulder. Are you done yet? Give me two minutes. She shifted her weight, eyes scanning the forest line. Where did you even learn how to pick locks? Natural talent, I muttered, my tone dry. Uh-huh. So, dodging the truth then? Im not. Let me work in peace. Fine, fine. Whatever you say, you''re one boring man. Hmm I kept my focus, ignoring her prying. As I worked, I wiped the sweat off my brow, hiding any trace of nerves. My usual deadpan expression didnt change, just the half-lidded eyes and blank face that seemed to bore people. Finally, I heard a satisfying click, and my hand froze. Suzan noticed immediately, her face lighting up with relief.Unauthorized content usage: if you discover this narrative on Amazon, report the violation. You close? she whispered, her gaze darting back to the trees. Is it unlocked? Please say yes. Not yet, but almost there. Just a second. She clenched her jaw, muttering under her breath. Stupid elves damn it. I knew I shouldnt have helped them. Whats done is done, I replied, glancing at her briefly. Yeah. Thats exactly what my mom said, she murmured, a hint of regret in her voice. Maybe not all of them are like this? I asked. Maybe some of them are actually No, She cut in. Theyre the same. Trust me. Hmm One final turn, and the lock clicked open. Suzan took a steadying breath, steeling herself as we prepared to enter. Holding our breaths, we pushed the door open. Inside was a nightmare. Dog corpses littered the floor, torn flesh and scattered fur covering the dimly lit room. Some dogs were still chained to the walls by their legs, whimpering weakly, their eyes filled with terror. Bones pressed through their emaciated bodies, some missing limbs, others lying barely breathing. In the centre stood a rectangular table, stained and sticky with dried blood. The walls and floor bore the same dark, gruesome stains. I recoiled, holding a hand over my mouth, the sickly stench assaulting me. The horror of the scene would haunt my dreams for years. Oh Suzan whispered, her face twisted with disgust. This is revolting. Yeah I muttered. Thats Gentle Gerald. Is it even alive? Shit. She said, My dog isnt here. Fucking elves fuck! Disgusting. I whispered to myself. How could someone do such a thing? Elves. She replied, Damned elves could do it. Who else? Ssh, I said with a dull tone. Dont yell. They might be close. Sorry. Sorry---its just fuck. What even is this cabin? Theyre butchering them and what, eat them? Probably. I replied. I approached the dog chained by its neck. Gentle Gerald cowered, trying to pull back, but the chain yanked him down. I crouched beside him, gently patting his head to soothe his fear. Poor thing was missing a leg, and he trembled at my touch. Suzan quietly shut the door and locked it, then sheathed her dagger. I shot her a curious look. In case the elves return, she said, her voice low. Lets help these dogs and get out of this nightmare. Alright, I nodded. Ill take this side, you get the other. Right. Be quick. Hmm. Poor things gods. Poor things. Look at them. Yeah. Theyre just waiting for their turns to get chopped up. I followed Gentle Geralds chain to where it was bolted to the wall. Bracing one foot against the wooden panel, I pulled hard, but it didnt budge. I needed a different approach. Examining the collar, I spotted a small keyhole. Unfortunately, Suzans lockpicking tools were too large to work here. These chains are locked too tight, Suzan called, frustration in her voice. Smart bastards. Same here. I sighed. What now? What do we do? Mm. Hey, come check this out. I found something. Hmm? I turned to her, just in time to see her fist rushing toward my face. Pain exploded as my head smacked against the wall, and I crumpled to the ground. Blinking through the haze, I saw Suzan standing over me, a key in her hand and a chilling smile across her face. She raised her foot, her smile twisting cruelly. My, my, my. I caught a big one this time, huh? Just my luck. Her foot crashed down on my face, knocking the breath from my lungs. This wasnt the first time Id been betrayedI could still remember my friend stealing my chocolate in kindergarten. But this? The stakes were a bit higher than some candy. No parents, no friends---no ones going to miss you, look for you, she sneered, crouching down with her voice dripping venom. A shame, really. What a fucking shame. Then, with one last brutal kick to my face, darkness overtook me. Goodnight. Sleep tight. Chapter 33: The escape I blinked, disoriented, staring at a ceiling that was sterile and whitenot the cracked, faded paint of my usual room. Glancing to my right, I saw my mother, her face red from crying, clutching my hand as if I were about to slip away. The memory of her frantic sobbing lingered, her disbelief that her own gun had nearly ended me, the bullet grazing my skull. I was luckyanother inch, and Id have painted the carpet with my own brains. Oh, Axel! she sobbed, hugging me tightly. Thank god. Youre awake. Mom? A chill ran through me. Not quite. The vision vanished, and I opened my eyes again to find myself bound tightly in chains, strapped to the bloody table in the cabin. My clothes were gone, and no amount of struggling loosened the chains. Suzan, the traitor, stood before me, her gaze cold and fixed as she brandished a gleaming knife, her smile unwavering. She strolled over, pressing her finger down between my eyebrows, applying a painful amount of pressure. I clenched my teeth, trying to contain the panic rising within me. Time for a little carving, Axel, she murmured, her face inches from mine, her breath warm and taunting. Excited? Why? I managed, my voice breaking. What the hell is this? Why? Suzan stepped back with a smirk, playing with the knife. Oh, you really want to know? Youre going to be so disappointed. Desperately, I twisted against the chains, muscles straining, trying to free even a hand, a leganything. But the bindings were tight, leaving me almost no room to move. Are you ready for the big reveal? she asked, feigning dramatic anticipation. She let out a small laugh as I stared, helpless. Just tell me, I demanded, voice laced with frustration and fear. Why are you doing this! She paused, eyes sparkling with deranged excitement. Taxes. Tawhat? I managed, frowning, my voice laced with disbelief. Though, I could tell she was lying. Do you have any idea how expensive meat is? she said, twirling the blade in her hand. We needed a solution, and lets just say, we got creative. Youre insane! Go hunt in the forest or something! I yelled, anger igniting as the reality of her words sank in. Her smile twisted. In one quick motion, she plunged the dagger into my shoulder, the blade piercing through to the wood beneath. Pain erupted, sharp and burning, and I choked back a scream as the agony surged through me. Goddamn it! I groaned, panting. Youre insane She chuckled, covering my mouth to muffle my cries. I personally prefer elf meat, she mused, her voice tainted with dark satisfaction. The elves I told you about? Oh, they were delicious. My customers couldnt get enough.This tale has been pilfered from Royal Road. If found on Amazon, kindly file a report. Youre sick! I spat, voice hoarse. Completely sick! It was rare for me to lose control like this. I was always careful, calm, calculated. But here, shackled to a table, facing a twisted death, Id lost my usual mask. Panic clawed its way up my throat as I struggled, feeling the knife dig deeper into my shoulder with every move. Sweating, I scanned for a way out, something to break the chains, anything to buy me even a slim chance. My heart raced as I considered the reality that I might end up as her next meal. This woman had tricked me, exploited my trust. I had been a fool, and now I was paying for it. Let me go, I pleaded, swallowing hard. Please. You you dont have to do this. Ignoring me, she crouched by a dogs corpse, shoving it aside to reveal a hidden trapdoor. With a look of cruel satisfaction, she opened it and reached down, pulling out two severed headsan elf man and a young girl, no older than ten, their lifeless eyes staring blankly. She set them down beside me, their expressions frozen in horror. No! I screamed, thrashing, chains cutting into my skin as I struggled. No, this is These were the elves I was talking about, she said, glancing at the heads with a disgusting pride. I wanted the brother for a while and planned to keep the girl around a bit longer but things dont always go as planned. Im not even from this world! I shouted, desperation seeping through every word. I came from another world! Just let me go, please. She raised an eyebrow, smirking. Oh, and Im the Queen herself! she sneered, mocking me. Better bow down, then! I felt the bile rise in my throat, my body stiffening in panic. Listen to me! Im serious! I gasped. Please dont do this But her cold smile remained. Somehow, I could sense her sadness. Like she was forced to do this. Sorry. Cant do that, kid. As a faint rustling sound echoed from outside, Suzan''s attention shifted. She moved to the window, peering out, then muttered a curse under her breath. Her expression grew tense, her sinister smile fading as she turned back to me. Dont go running off anywhere, my dear Axy-Axy. Ill be back, she taunted. She leaned down, planted a mocking kiss on my cheek, and left, locking the door behind her. The moment she was gone, I strained my neck, scanning the room for anything that could help. Dogs whimpered around me, adding to the sickening scene. My clothes lay crumpled near Gentle Gerald, and, glancing down, I finally noticed how the chains were securedmy feet were bound to a ring on one table leg, while my hands were locked to a ring on the opposite leg. Dangling one leg off the edge, I began kicking at the ring. One strike, two, threeon the fifth, it broke free with a metallic clang. I was finally free half-free. When I tried to sit up, however, pain flared from the knife still buried in my shoulder, pinning me down. Ah damn it First, I bit down on the knifes hilt, tugging to loosen it, but it barely budged. Sucking in a breath, I braced myself, then forced my body upward, enduring a new wave of agony. The knife shifted slightly, but not enough to remove it completely. Blood seeped faster from the wound, throbbing with every heartbeat. With a final push, I managed to sit up fully, gasping in relief. Thank god. Okay. Okay. Gritting my teeth, I seized the knifes hilt, closing my eyes and steeling myself. I tugged, feeling the blade tear against muscle with a sickening sound, but it finally came loose. My shoulder flared in pain, but the worst was over. Kicking free the remaining ring binding my arms, I was fully unchained. Ignoring the pain, I quickly pulled on my clothes, then crept toward the window. I scanned the area. It looked clearno sign of Suzan. Alright, I whispered to myself, taking a shaky breath. I can do this I can get out. Ou---out All of a sudden, everything became grey and I fell on the floor due to the blood loss I experienced. Agh I whispered. I---out crap. Chapter 34: Hang on Ada was the first to notice how drained Id become. She saw how Id sleep through classes, barely eat, and just seemed exhausted with life. The day I was called in sick, she came by my house to drop off homework. But my mom sent her away, saying she was probably there to harm me. Then, she tore the homework into shreds, saying it was poisonous. Hmm Opening my eyes, I blinked up at the ceiling for a second, trying to process everything. Then, it all hit me, and I shot up. I was still in the cabin, and footsteps were closing in from outside. Damn it, I whispered, glancing around before spotting the trapdoor. I quickly yanked it open. Below was a pitlittered with corpses. It reminded me of when James told me about the crawlspace under his childhood vacation house, though his didnt have bodies. Hed talked about sneaking into the house through a trapdoor, scaring his parents, and somehow linking the story to some bizarre stock advice I lowered myself down, stepping onto a decaying body, feeling the slimy surface under my foot. The stench was overwhelming, filled with rot and worms. Elves, dogs, humansit was all a horrific, decomposing mess. I crawled out to the opposite side, away from where Id heard the footsteps. I tried to stand, but a wave of weakness hit me hard. Bad boy! Suzans voice rang out. Looking left, I saw her. She was already peering down at me through the trapdoor, her head appearing upside down with a crazed smile that stretched across her face. That sight alone gave me enough adrenaline to push myself up and sprint. Ill gouge your eyes out and make you eat them! she sang as if she were reciting a nursery rhyme. Hear that, Axy-Axy? Just leave me alone! I yelled, racing into the forest. No can do! she laughed, her voice echoing closer. Why not stop and make it easier, mmh? Screw you! I shouted back. Aww, now thats just rude! Jumping over a large rock, I nearly stumbled, catching myself by throwing a hand to the ground and pushing onward. The maniac was still close behind, but I didnt dare look back to see just how close. The whole situation was beyond surreala nightmare. Id almost ended up as someones dinner. Finally mustering the courage, I glanced over my shoulder. Suzan had her hands stretched forward, and suddenly, two blazing fireballs shot my way. I swerved to the right, barely dodging the first, then dropped to the ground to avoid the second. The dodge threw me off balance, and I hit the dirt hard, rolling a few times. Somehow, I managed to spring back up and keep running, heart pounding. Come on, lets just talk! Suzan called out, voice lilting with mock sweetness. No need for violence. Youre insane! I yelled, pushing through thick grasses, shielding my face with my hands. Insane? Im just crazy, not insane, Axy-Axy! Every step made my injured shoulder throb, but I couldnt stop. I had to get to the city, to Kinowa, but Suzan was forcing me in the opposite direction. Come on, stop! Please? She laughed, closing the gap between us. She was only a few steps away nowone misstep, and Id be done for. Get away from me! Oh, youre fast, she taunted. Didnt take you for a runner.If you spot this tale on Amazon, know that it has been stolen. Report the violation. Just leave me alone! Again---no can do! She yelled, her voice taking on a sing-song tone. Tell you what for some reason, she didnt complete her sentence. Ill stop, okay? Bye! Good luck! What? Turning forward, I suddenly saw what she meant: a massive black bear stood in my path, scars crisscrossing its muscled body, one eye clouded over but the other locked squarely on me. So thats what I heard outside. Suzans laugh echoed as she circled back. Good luck, Axy-Axy. Oh, great. Just perfect, I muttered. With a ground-shaking roar, the bear charged. I turned to run, but it closed in fast. Its heavy body slammed into me, sending me crashing to the ground. A crushing paw pinned me, and I felt sharp claws rake down my back, cutting into flesh. I screamed, agony flaring hot and sharp. The bear snapped its jaws down on my arm, but thanks to the sturdy gauntlet I wore, it couldnt sink its teeth in. Frustrated, it turned to my injured shoulder, biting down and thrashing its head back and forth. Gritting my teeth, I punched at its snout, but the blows barely registered. Desperately, I reached for the dagger the Queen had given meonly to realise it was gone. I mustve lost it back at the cabin. The bear swiped at my face, and I barely rolled to the side in time. Its massive paw landed on my right leg, and it sank its teeth into my thigh, yanking me toward it with a roar. Saliva dripped from its mouth onto my face. I tried to roll away again, but it pressed one of its legs onto my stomach, its full weight crushing me and leaving me gasping for air. Aghno, no, no! Level 2: Axel HP: [??????????] 09/110(!) Mana: [????????] -1/100 Stamina: [?????????] 23/120 Options: [Inv | Skills | Quests] A flashing, red-outlined box appeared in my vision, warning of critical status, but I couldnt focus on it with the bears jaws clamping down on me. Barely able to breathe, I curled into a tight ball, hoping it might lose interest. Instead, the bear bit down on my cape, hoisted me, and hurled me against a tree. My back hit hard, pain flaring anew as I crashed to the ground, vision swimming and blood flowing from too many wounds to count. No not like this, I whispered. No shit. God. No. No. Desperation clawed at me as I remembered how Mortan cast that fire spell. Raising a shaky hand, I extended my palm toward the bear, clenching my teeth and closing my eyes. I couldnt dienot to a wild animal---not in a place like this. The bear was closing in, I didnt have much time to do something. Or I was a goner. Heat built in my hand, strangely soothing. Cracking one eye open, I watched as a fireball materialised, then blasted forward with a force that jolted my whole arm, like firing a high-calibre rifle. The flame shot straight at the bear, striking it with deadly accuracy. With one final roar, it collapsed, blood splattering across me as its body crashed to the ground. ========================= * Bear slain! -------------------------------- + XP Gained: 5 -------------------------------- | Current XP: 05 / 100 -------------------------------- | Progress: ???????????? ========================= Ah damn. I actually cast a spell, I gasped, pain gnawing at every part of me. Agh okay okay. Crap. I tried to stand, struggling through multiple failed attempts until, finally, I managed to get to my feet. Stumbling a few steps toward the trees, my adrenaline began to fade, and I collapsed. The forest spun as my blood pooled around me, mixing with the bears, dark and thick. Father? Damn it! Wheres that bear? A deep voice muttered nearby. It ran this way. Are you sure, Father? a younger voice replied. Yes, of course. Maybe it changed direction? Possible. Keep an eye open. Wait is that someone on the ground? I felt a hand gently roll me onto my back, and through blurred vision, I saw a burly man and a girl about my age peering down at me, concern etched into their faces. Claw marks, the man murmured. The bear messed him up pretty bad. The woman, I rasped, barely able to speak. The cabin dogs Hes delirious, the girl whispered. Probably in shock. We have to help him. The man lifted me carefully, draping me over his shoulder. Hang on, kid. Dont die on us, alright? Ill try Chapter 35: Stitch him up The man started walking, while the girl kept a worried eye on me. With every step, I left a faint trail of blood on the ground. My wounds burned fiercely; even the slightest breeze stung. All I could think about was wanting to be home, away from this nightmare. The man shook his head. This wont work He seemed to notice my state and gently set me down on a large rock, crouching beside me. The girl joined him, her expression tightening as she examined my injuries. She lifted a torn bit of fabric to reveal the deep stab wound on my shoulder, then carefully turned me to inspect the bear claw marks along my back. She grimaced and exchanged a tense glance with her father. Though they didnt speak, I could see the worry on their faces. "He''s losing blood too fast," she murmured, her voice tense. "I dont know if hell hold on until we reach home." Can you manage a healing spell? her father asked, his brow furrowed. "I can try, but it wont hold for long. He needs higher-level healingspells Im not ready for. Her father nodded, understanding. Thats not good She turned her gaze to me. Ill close your wounds as best I can, alright? But its going to hurt. I managed a weak sound in response, but there was no strength left to object. The girl rummaged through her backpack, pulling out a small kit. Inside were needles, thread, and a few basic tools. She threaded a needle, her hands steady but her face betraying a flicker of unease. Seeing her prepare to stitch me up, I tried to shake my head, a silent protest escaping in a faint gasp, but I couldnt form the words. She took a deep breath, positioning the needle by the edge of my wound on my shoulder. Sorry, she whispered. No dont The needle broke through my skin, and a scream ripped from my throat. My fists dug into the rock, my nails scraping against it as her father held me steady, keeping me from thrashing in pain. I dared to look down, catching sight of the needle puncturing through the torn skin. Each stitch dragged the thread through the edges of the wound, drawing it tightly closed with a pull that felt as if my skin were being torn all over again. Crap! She yelled. This is a stab wound? The blade broke inside. Get it out. Her father replied. Dont pull it, youll hurt him more. Make it exit through the other side. O-okay. I can do this. She grabbed a pair of tweezers and inserted them into the wound, forcing it open further. The searing pain made my body tremble, my fingernails digging into the rock beneath me as I tried to endure it. Gripping a thin, splintered stick, she forced it deeper into the wound, tearing through layers of raw tissue with a wet, nauseating squelch. The jagged edges scraped against something hardbone, maybeand the grinding vibration sent waves of nausea rolling through me. Blood and bits of flesh bubbled up around the stick, dripping in slow, sticky streams that clung to her hands as she twisted it with grim determination. I could feel the blade moving disgusting. Finally, with one last effort, the blade emerged from the other side of the wound. She steadied her hands and carefully pulled it free. "Done! I did it, Father!" "That''s my girl," he replied, pride evident in his voice. Now stitch him up.Reading on Amazon or a pirate site? This novel is from Royal Road. Support the author by reading it there. Yes yes, okay. The girl didnt pause; her hands moved quickly, the needle slipping in and out with a nauseating rhythm. I could feel the fibers of the thread tugging at raw flesh, every pull forcing the skin to press together in a way that only amplified the pain. My breaths came in short, ragged bursts as I tried to hold still, but each stitch sent a fresh wave of agony up my arm, and it was all I could do not to wrench away from her hands. Ugh shit. Shit After four stitches, she cut the thread, exhaling in relief, her hands trembling just a bit. They propped me up, and she moved to the wound where the knife had exited. I tried to brace myself, watching as she gripped the needle and thread again, but the moment she pierced the other side of the wound, I was hit by another shock of pain. My muscles tensed so hard it felt like theyd snap, and my jaw ached from clenching my teeth. Thankfully, she finished this side fasterjust a few more merciless stitches, the thread biting in with each tug. When she finally cut the thread, I slumped forward, exhausted, my skin still throbbing from the fresh stitching. The whole process had left me weak and shaking, but at least the worst of it was over. The man looked at the wound with a frown. A stab wound Thought you were attacked by a bear? My mind reeled for a moment, trying to catch up, but his words finally broke through the fog of pain. A woman, I managed, the words coming out broken. In a cabin eats dogs. She attacked me. The mans eyebrows shot up. A woman in a cabin? I nodded weakly. Her name was Suzan. They exchanged glances before the man gently helped me back to my feet. I tried to stand, but my knees buckled almost immediately. He caught me, steadying me before lifting me onto his shoulder once more. My wounds were still seeping blood, but at least the worst one had been stitched shut. For now, all I could do was cling to consciousness as they carried me forward, hoping Id make it to safety. I lifted my head, squinting at the blood trail Id left behind, then shut my eyes, breathing slowly to keep the pain at bay. I was barely hanging on, every step making the world tilt and blur. The girl moved to my left, extending a hand toward me. A soft green glow pulsed from her palm, washing over me in waves. The spell was helping, just enough to keep me from drifting out of consciousness. Youre holding on, kid? the man asked, glancing back. Barely, I muttered. The girl looked at me, recognition flickering in her eyes. Youre the one my brother, Gabriel, spoke with in the tavern. He asked about your wound, right? She let her hand fall, ending the spell, her gaze lingering on me with concern. Her blonde hair swayed in the wind, and her eyes were as clear as the skyGabriels sister, I remembered now. Yeah, I managed with a nod. It was me. Howd you end up here? she asked. And who did this to you? I mean, it wasnt just a bear who attacked you, right? Youve been stabbed. A woman named Suzan, I repeated. She tried to butcher me. Like I was an animal. Gods above, muttered the man. Are you serious? I gestured weakly at my injuries. These dont lie. The girl clenched her jaw, a look of resolve passing over her. We need to inform the guards. And your name? Axel. She nodded. Im Jane, and this is my father, Kenneth. Hang in there, Axel. Kenneth shifted my weight slightly to make me more comfortable. So Suzan, huh? Howd you get away from that monster? I took a shallow breath, wincing. Escaped. She chased me, but then a bear showed up. Kenneth let out a low whistle. Thats a hell of a story, son. Cannibal and a bearsounds like the punchline of a bad joke. Jane frowned as she watched me sway, then reached up to place a hand on my forehead. Hes shivering. And hes starting a fever. Well get you to a vailhouse soon, Axel. Just hold tight, Kenneth assured me. He adjusted his pace, and I could feel his grip tighten, making sure I didnt slip. Itll be faster through the north gates, Jane suggested, glancing toward the road. Hios path is closer. Kenneth gave a nod of agreement. I was about to ask what a vailhouse was, but the strength had already drained from me. All I could do was slump against Kenneths shoulder, trying to keep myself conscious. Ugh what a nightmare, I mumbled, barely aware of my own voice as the world continued to blur. TTTTTT?TTTTTT Chapter 36: Here鈥檚 hoping Lifting my head, I caught sight of Kinowas gates, open and guarded by two men. One of them nudged his distracted companion, both staring at us as Kenneth carried me forward. Their brows knitted with curiosity, likely wondering how Id ended up in this battered state. One guard stepped forward, casting a wary glance at me and the others around, who were starting to murmur. A few voices muttered theoriesanother elf attack, maybe whispered one passerby. The sun was sinking low, casting a golden light over the city, as the chill began to creep into the air. Overhead, dark clouds gathered with the promise of rain. Elves? The guard finally broke the silence, his gaze fixed on my wounds. Was it them? Kenneth didnt miss a beat. A bear got him, he replied. We found him like this. The guards suspicion deepened. So hes a poacher, then? Bear hunting is prohibited this month by the Queens decree. Only for brown bears and cubs, Jane interjected, quick to clarify. And he wasnt hunting. Look at himhe doesnt even have a bow. The guard grunted, giving us a reluctant nod. Eh, fine. Go on through. Kenneth adjusted me on his shoulder and moved forward, entering the gates with steady and quick steps. Despite their guarded responses, I couldnt muster the strength to question why theyd kept silent about Suzan. Right now, all I could manage was breathing, my mind replaying images of her twisted actionsthose butchered dogs, the cold metal of that knife, her face inches from mine. A shiver ran through me. All I wanted was to escape this nightmare and get home. Why didnt you tell them about Suzan, Father? Jane asked. Kenneth kept his voice low. If we alert the guards, shell find out Axels still alive. Better to keep this quiet. Ill speak to the district captain directly. Hell handle it. Jane nodded slowly. Makes sense its just wish we could do more. I wish, daughter. I wish. Kenneth glanced over at me, his voice dropping to a cautious whisper. Which district is her tavern in, son? Karmak, I managed, each word feeling heavier. Cant remember the name, though Karmak. Kenneth repeated thoughtfully, then quickened his pace. I could tell he was getting tired from carrying me. Only a few taverns there, should be easy enough to find. Suzan, you said? Her surname? I dont know, I replied, my words barely a mumble. But she has an old mother. Works there too. Her mother is in it as well? Jane asked. Yeah, probably. They take peoples dogs. Chop them up. Serve them as meals. She swallowed hard. So shes the reason pets have been vanishing left and right? I let out a shallow breath. Gabriels dog its gone too. Kenneth shifted uncomfortably, muttering, Best we dont tell him that, right, Jane? Right, she agreed, her face pale. This is who could even think of something like that? And why?This narrative has been unlawfully taken from Royal Road. If you see it on Amazon, please report it. Monsters dont need a reason, Kenneth replied coldly. Just like the elves. Janes face tightened, her lips pressing together as if she didnt agree with her father, but she kept her thoughts to herself. As I lowered my head again, the cobblestone streets blurred under me, each step jostling the wound in my shoulder. Jane reached over, gently pressing her fingers to my back. The stitches are opening up, she murmured, a flicker of regret in her eyes. SorryIve only ever stitched up Gabriels toys. You did good, I breathed. Thanks. Kenneth interrupted, relief in his tone. Were here. Theyll take care of you, Axel. This one is a great vailhouse. He was sweating, muscles trembling from carrying me. He was a bulky man---but he was old. This was probably too much for him for a man of his age. Propping myself up to get a better look, I saw the two-story building ahead. Above the entrance, Hio Vailhouse was carved into the stone. A statue stood in the small garden, a serene woman reaching for the stars, her draped clothing just enough to cover her private parts. The plaque at the statues base read, Goddess of Beauty, Haru, heal our wounds. The effort it took to lift my head was dizzying; the world felt like it was spinning in slow, nauseating circles. Weak, I let my head fall back down, shutting my eyes against the disorienting blur. Whatever a vailhouse was, I just prayed they could help. As we neared the entrance, a voice called out, Hey, Kenneth! A passerby slowed, eyeing me with curiosity. Whos the lad, and what the hells happened? Kenneth chuckled, never breaking stride. Bear got to him. Hes lucky to be breathing. The man shook his head in amazement, his voice raising as he called after us, The gods mustve kept him safe, then! They sure have, Kenneth replied, a hint of solemnity in his tone. The sounds around me grew muffled, the steady rhythm of Kenneths footsteps blending into a dull hum. I felt myself slipping, vision graying as if I were floating above it all, disconnected. The air was growing colder, even too cold for me to handle. Noticing my fading state, Jane crouched to meet my eyes, her face blurred but unmistakably worried. Dad, hes not looking too good. Kenneths voice rang out with urgency. We need help! Hes been mauled by a bearsomeone get over here! Twomaybe threepeople rushed out of the vailhouse. Kenneth gently lowered me to sit against the statue, my head leaning heavily on the stone figure. Everything around me was a haze of grey, and only the blood droplets marking my trail stayed vivid, like splashes of red ink against the cobblestone. Two women in white robes reached their hands out toward me, whispering words I couldnt catch. Their palms began to glow with a faint green light, and warmth spread through my body, numbing the sharper edges of my pain. The spell felt similar to the one cast by the Guild healer, though it barely touched the deeper injuries. Just a soft dulling, like a balm over an open wound. One healer shook her head, assessing my state. Hes been through a lot. This will need more than we can manage here. Janes frustration burst out, her voice edged with worry. But youre healerswhat do you mean? Hes lost too much blood, the second healer explained, steady but serious. Even with our best magic, theres only so much we can do. Only the highest spells could properly heal him in this stateand no one here can cast those. The first woman added, Well stitch his wounds and hope the gods favor his recovery. She turned to Kenneth. Itll be two gold. My hands instinctively moved to my side, searching for my pouch. Nothing. Suzan mustve taken it. That left me with only whatever small amount I had in my inventory, whatever Id managed to save from quests---just four gold coins. This whole ordeal, supposed to be a simple quest for a few coins, had cost me the Queens dagger and my money. Still, I reminded myself it couldve been worseId at least escaped with my life. Two gold, it is, Kenneth said without hesitation. Lets get him settled. One of the women nodded. Take him to the third room. Ill bring what we need. Jane gave me a comforting smile, her hand resting on my uninjured shoulder. Youll be all right. Theyll take care of you now. I took a shallow, shaky breath, my face dull. Heres hoping Chapter 37: A mess At one point, I wanted to yell, Stop healing me and just knock me out already, but I managed to hold it in. What a nightmare They carried me carefully up a creaking staircase to a room on the second floor and laid me on a bed. The room was small and simple, with soft white walls that reflected the glow of the single oil lamp on a wooden nightstand. Above the bed, a small square window overlooked the cobbled street below, its frame encased in ivy that climbed from a potted plant nearby. Several other plants dotted the room: one with broad, green leaves and another with delicate purple blooms that seemed to shimmer faintly, infused with a touch of---magic, maybe? Youll be okay, a woman murmured as she leaned close. Her voice was steady, reassuring. Youre in good hands. Now, I want you to close your eyes. Alright, I whispered, surrendering to the fatigue. Then, there was only darkness. Whether Id fallen asleep or just passed out from the pain, I didnt know. At least I wouldnt have to experience any more stitching while I was consciousa rare thing to be grateful for. TTTTTT?TTTTTT When I opened my eyes again, the room was bathed in pale moonlight filtering through the small window. A man sat nearby, perched on a low couch by the window, his attention absorbed in a book. He was angled slightly away from me, his face partially hidden, with the book covering the rest. I shifted in the bed, my mouth dry, as a faint ache pulsed through my body. The stranger glanced up, closing his book as he rose to his feet. It was the headmaster from Redwood Academy, the one whose name I still hadnt caught. Youre awake, he observed with a slight nod. I promised myself Id leave if you didnt wake by the end of this page. He tapped the closed book, almost amused at the timing. I swallowed, surprised hed waited. Why why are you here, sir? An investigation is underway. About a woman named Suzan, he replied, voice steady, though his eyes darkened. She attacked one of my students. You. He emphasized the word my, his tone protective. Your safety is my responsibility. It took a moment for me to process his words. Thank you, sir. I brought the best healers to treat you, he continued, his gaze assessing. Your wounds are partially healed, though the scars will remainthe claw marks and the stab wound. Testing his words, I carefully rolled my shoulder. The sharp pain had faded to a dull throb, about a five on the pain scale. I traced my fingers over the scar on my back, feeling the roughened edges. Then, with a jolt, I realised my sheath was emptythe Queens dagger was missing. It mustve been lost in the fight with Suzan or the bear. The thought of facing the Queen without it knotted my stomach. I was screwed Feeling the drain of fatigue, I leaned back on the bed, the moonlight casting its glow across the room, illuminating both our faces. Did they catch Suzan, sir? I asked, clinging to some hope for closure. He shook his head. No. According to records, theres no Suzan who owns a tavern in Karmak. Officially, she doesnt exist. What do you mean? He glanced down, his expression unreadable. Suzan her real name is Alez, he said quietly. She was my student, years ago.If you encounter this tale on Amazon, note that it''s taken without the author''s consent. Report it. I blinked. How do you know its her? He paused, running a hand over the cover of his book. I recognized her by the cabin you were found in. She once lived there with her mother. Oh I murmured, the pieces of his story only raising more questions. As he tried to rise from the chair, he wavered slightly, his hand gripping the armrest. After a moment, he steadied himself and straightened, clutching his book as he gave me a final nod. He looked tired, almost drained. The headmaster was an odd man, but there was something in his mannerdetached yet intentthat felt sincere. Outside, a faint drizzle had begun, pattering against the window. People hurried home beneath their cloaks as guards continued their patrols, and in the courtyard below, two women scrubbed at the statues platform, washing away the blood Id left behind. You should get some rest, the headmaster said, glancing back at me. Come to the academy tomorrow evening. Well discuss more then. Alright, I replied, sinking back into the bed as my eyes grew heavy again. Thank you for visiting, sir. After the headmaster left, I grimaced, pushing myself upright and shuffling over to the window. The women whod been scrubbing my blood from the statue were gone, and the streets outside were even emptier now, shrouded in the quiet of the night. A lone carriage rattled down the road, its wheels clicking softly on the cobblestones. It was the same type of carriage Mortan had used to pick me up before. From the back, a pale hand dangled limply, exposed beneath a thin, tattered sheet. I couldnt make out the figures face, but the delicate ring on her finger glinted in the dim lightshe was likely a woman. Another corpse With a heavy sigh, I pressed both hands onto the window sill, leaned forward, and let my eyes fall shut. Id seen enough of this, too much to be disturbed by it anymore. Tomorrow, Id finally get to search the Academys library. There had to be something in there that could explain that black eye Id seen before being thrown into this world, something that could point me toward a way back home. "Man what a mess." As if on cue, another carriage rolled past, stopping just outside the Vailhouse. Then another arrived, and then anotherthree carriages in total, each stopping in quick succession. A squad of guards stepped out from the first two, forming a tight circle around the final carriage. From it emerged the Queen herself, her gaze sharp and cold, cutting through the night air. Oh, Im screwed. My stomach twisted. The guards closed ranks around her as they moved toward the Vailhouse, their armour catching the flickering torchlight. The staff members outside scrambled to their feet, bowing low in deference as she approached. She was coming for me, no doubt. And she wouldnt be happy about that dagger. I couldnt risk stayingif I didnt leave now, itd be either torture or worse. I had to run. Ignoring the pain that shot through my battered body, I limped toward the door, slipping into a narrow, dimly lit hallway. On both ends were small windows, casting faint beams of light that pooled on the wooden floor. The walls were lined with tightly spaced doors, each leading to rooms as cramped as my own. Off to the right, a narrow staircase spiraled down to the lower floors. I turned left, quickly scanning for any way out, and spotted an open window. Hobbling over, I peered down. About two metres below, a wooden pole jutted out from the wall, a flag flapping softly in the night breeze. Gulping, I clambered up onto the window sill, my fingers clutching the edges tightly as I lowered myself down. Taking a deep breath, I let go and stretched for the wooden pole, catching it just in time to avoid plummeting straight down. My arms shook from the effort as I tried to steady myself. Then, crouching low, I gripped the pole firmly with both hands and released my grip, dropping the remaining few metres. The impact knocked the breath out of me, and I collapsed to my knees on the cobbled street, gasping in pain. Ugh I winced, clutching my side. Get up, Ax. You have to get up. With a groan, I forced myself to my feet, ignoring the sharp ache in my legs, and slipped into a nearby alleyway. I pressed myself against the wall as another carriage passed, keeping low and out of sight. Once it was safely down the road, I ducked back onto the main street, casting a glance over my shoulder. Then I froze. A guard was ahead, ten, maybe twenty metres away, his gaze narrowing as he spotted me. I knew I couldnt outrun him, not in this state. My options were slipping away. The guard raised an eyebrow, his eyes focusing on me as he started forward. Oi, hold up, he called, his tone more curious than hostile. I recognize you. Shouldnt you be in bed? I muttered under my breath, Just my luck. Chapter 38: Lying to a royal I limped in the opposite direction, away from the guard. But I barely managed five steps before he caught up, grabbing my arm and yanking me back. I stumbled, crashing to the ground, the cold cobblestone slamming against the back of my head. I blinked up at the night sky, feeling the weight of it allfirst the goblins, then that bizarre flower, then Suzan and her crazed attack. And now this. It was as if this world was determined to keep me on the ground. The guard pulled me upright, sheathing his sword with a shake of his head. "What in the hells are you doing, boy?" he barked. "Why are you running off?" I fumbled for an excuse, still dazed. "I... just... needed some air?" Normally, a lie would slip off my tongue effortlessly, but in my battered state, my mind felt sluggish, the words sticking in my throat. He let out a rough chuckle, nudging me forward. "You''re a strange one, arent you? The Queen herself comes all the way here to see you, and you''re out here getting some air. Right." I muttered an apology, feeling his grip tighten as he steered me back toward the Vailhouse. For a moment, I considered breaking away, slipping into an alley, disappearing. But as we neared the building, the sight of countless guards stationed outside killed that idea instantly. There was no escaping this. No place to hide. We stepped inside, and he led me up the narrow stairs, stopping at my room. He rapped on the door, and a firm, familiar voice responded. "Come in." The guard gestured with a tilt of his head. I swallowed, steeling myself, then stepped inside. The Queen was waiting, standing by the window, her figure framed by the moonlight. I bowed low, eyes fixed on the floor, mimicking the guard beside me. The guard spoke first. "Your Highness, I found him outside." The Queens voice was cold, unamused. "Outside? There''s only one staircase, I wouldve seen you. I stammered, feeling her scrutiny like a weight on my shoulders. "I I was already outside, Your Highness." "And what, exactly, were you doing?" She arched an eyebrow, watching me with narrowed eyes. "Just getting some air, Your Highness." Her tone dropped, icy. "Lying to a royal? Try again, Axel." There was no point hiding the truth now. I exhaled, resigned. "I was trying to run." "Run? From whom?" "You, Your Highness," I admitted, feeling the blood drain from my face. "I I lost the dagger. I was attacked by a woman named Su" "Suzan," she interrupted, her tone clipped. "Yes, Ive heard the name. So, my dagger is gone?" I nodded. "Yes..." "How?" Her voice was deceptively calm as she leaned a hand against the window. I swallowed, trying to piece it together as clearly as I could. "Phobe---the tavern keeper asked me to look for her dog, Gentle Gerald. I followed up some leads and I ran into Suzan. She said the elves were responsible for the lost animals. She told me there was a cabin in the forest, and that the elves were putting the dogs they kidnapped there. When we reached there---she tricked me, knocked me out, and stole everything. She... she strapped me down, tried to cut me up." The Queen studied me, her expression unreadable. Then she spoke, her voice low. "And you chose to delay delivering my dagger to Mortan to look for a dog? I I couldnt answer, couldnt find words that would justify it. She stepped closer, tilting my chin up with a single, cold finger, her gaze unwavering. "You will find that dagger. Or I will have you hanged. And I am not joking this time, Axel." Yes, Your Highness. My voice came out as a whisper. "Good." She gave my cheek a light, almost mocking tap. "Im glad we understand each other." The guard next to me stepped forward. "Ms. Mearta is waiting, Your Highness. Were behind schedule."This book was originally published on Royal Road. Check it out there for the real experience. She nodded, her gaze never leaving mine. "You have until tomorrow evening to bring me that dagger." But tomorrow" I started, but thought better of it, nodding instead. "Yes, Your Highness." "Good." She smirked as she turned toward the door, her voice almost too calm. "There will be a reward if you succeed." With a last glance, she swept out of the room, the guard closing the door quietly behind them. I stayed rooted, feeling the weight of her words settle on me. Finding that dagger in less than a day was impossible. But if I wanted to survive, I had to try. I felt the cool outline of my phone in my pocket, and walked back to the window, watching as the Queen entered her carriage, her presence as imposing as ever even from a distance. No rest for the wicked, huh?" I murmured to myself, already dreading the journey back to the forest, to the cabin. TTTTTT?TTTTTT With my phone in hand, I hopped over a large puddle, pausing on the other side to catch my breath. My legs were aching, and every step sent a sharp throb through the claw marks across my back. The tattered remains of my clothes did nothing to keep out the cold, each gust of wind chilling me to the bone. But at least I was alivea small victory I hadnt expected to feel so grateful for. Sighing, I switched on my phones flashlight, casting a beam across the dark, thick trees until I found my way to the cabin. The door was ajar, and several guards were stationed nearby, ready and alert. As soon as they noticed me, hands went to the hilts of their swords. Two stood by the front entrance, two more at the side, and a handful gathered around a campfire, roasting meat. It looked like they were waiting for Suzan to return. Who goes there? one guard barked. Axel, I replied, stepping forward. The Queen sent me to find her dagger. Thought Id take another look around here. The guard eyed the phone in my hand. Whats that youre holding? Its a torch, I said, quickly switching it off. Just a device from my country. I moved closer, letting the firelight illuminate my empty sheath. I dont have any weapons on me. One guard raised an eyebrow. You came here without any way to defend yourself? Must be a strong magic caster, then. I gave a half-hearted nod, avoiding his gaze. Something like that. Alright, he said, a hint of scepticism in his voice. Search away. Thanks. I turned my flashlight back on and began combing the area, carefully scanning the wet ground. I circled around the cabin, even crawled beneath it, but came up with nothing. After a while, I scratched my head in frustration, my eyes narrowing as I studied the dirt. Realising Id have to search inside, I walked over to the entrance, peering into the dim room. The chains and animals that had been tied up before were gone, though the table where Suzan had bound me was cluttered with the guards spare swords and shields. Blood stained the floor in streaks and pools, and I could tell which ones were minethe crimson looked fresher, glistening faintly in the light. Nothing, I muttered, clenching my fists. Damn it. You find that dagger yet, kid? a guard called from outside. No. I forced the word out, Suzan mustve taken it with her. Too bad. He shook his head. That was the Queens favorite. I exhaled sharply and left the cabin, heading toward the spot where Id killed the bear. Its carcass lay just where Id left it, charred fur still smouldering, its head mangled beyond recognition. My stomach churned, and I turned away, covering my mouth with my hand. But I knew I had to keep looking. After a couple of minutes of searching around the bear, I still came up empty-handed. I slumped onto a nearby rock, switching off my phones flashlight. Nothing I mumbled, feeling the weight of failure settle in. No luck? the guard yelled over, his voice laced with amusement. I called back, No. Cant find it anywhere. The guard and his companions laughed. Youre in trouble, my friend. I wouldnt want to be in your boots. Yeah great. Thinking that maybe Id dropped the dagger when Kenneth had laid me down on a rock for Jane to stitch me up, I quickly got to my feet and headed in that direction. After a few minutes of pushing through the trees, I found the spot. The rock was still stained with my blood a lot of blood. But, just like everywhere else, there was no dagger. I exhaled sharply, frustration bubbling up as I turned and made my way back toward the cabin. My phones flashlight had switched off again, but I didnt bother turning it back on, figuring the guards torches would light the way once I got close. However, an uneasy feeling crept over me as I approached; the usual torchlights were missing. The cabin and the surrounding area were blanketed in darkness. It didnt sit rightmaybe theyd left, or had gone to sleep? Quietly, I slipped through the last line of bushes and peeked out. My breath caught in my throat. Shit All the guards lay sprawled across the ground, unconscious, their half-eaten bowls of chicken soup scattered beside them. Suzan was crouched over them, rummaging through their belongings with her usual wicked grin. I ducked behind a large rock, peering out from the shadows. My mind raced, weighing my options as I watched her pull out pouches and valuables, seemingly oblivious to my presence. And I could see it. The Queens dagger on hand. Damn it I whispered, gripping my hands into fists. What to do now? Chapter 39: Ruining the fun Steeling myself, I crept closer from my hiding spot, readying my hand to try that fire spell again. I didnt understand how Id managed it last time, especially with my mana running on empty, but if I was going to survive this, I had to take the risk. There was no turning back nowthe Queens punishment would be far worse than whatever Suzan or her mother could throw at me. Fighting went against everything Id believed in, every rule Id followed to keep myself safe, but survival was on the line. Emerging from behind an old, weathered bench, I extended my hand, focusing on summoning that elusive warmth. But before I could even attempt the spell, a sharp gust struck me, nearly knocking me off balance. I staggered to the side, catching sight of Suzans mother smirking, her gnarled fingers wrapped around a wooden staff. Well, look who wandered back, Suzan purred, a twisted smile spreading across her face. Missed us, Axy? Seems he didnt get a taste of our special chicken soup, the old woman jeered, a glint in her eye. Wasnt chicken in that pot, you know. Just leftover travellers. Youre both out of your minds, I said, keeping my voice steady. This ends here. Surrender. Suzan let out a cold laugh. So they can string us up? Hardly. Mother, I think weve found our next course. I bet the customers will love him. The old womans eyes gleamed. Indeed they will, my dear. Suzan lunged, her grip tight around the Queens dagger. I sidestepped, throwing out my arm and shoving her off balance. She hit the ground with a snarl, but before I could gather my thoughts, her mother was already on the attack. I barely registered the fireball streaking through the darkness before it slammed into me, sending me hurtling backward. My body hit the ground hard, rolling from the impact, but I forced myself to get up, ignoring the sharp ache radiating through my side. Suzan was on me again in seconds, dagger flashing in the moonlight as she aimed for my throat. I twisted, narrowly dodging, but her blade tore into my wounded shoulder. I gasped as pain shot through me, and she took the opportunity to drive her knee into my stomach, knocking the air from my lungs. Come on, she taunted, her voice dripping with mockery as I stumbled back. Dont go soft on me now. Youre ruining the fun. Desperately, I opened my palm, focusing on that spark, feeling the heat gatheronly for Suzan to strike again, her dagger grazing my leg. My spell shot off course, igniting a nearby tree instead. The old woman crouched, placing her hand to the ground, and I barely had time to react as thick branches sprang up from the earth, coiling around my legs and pinning me down. Suzan approached, her face twisted with a bloodthirsty grin, lifting the dagger high, poised to strike. I wrestled against the branches, freeing an arm just in time to block her downward strike, knocking her arm to the side and sending the dagger skidding to the ground. In one swift move, I grabbed a fistful of her hair, yanking her back and landing a punch square on her jaw, dropping her to one knee. With a quick kick to the back of her head, I dislodged the final branch from my leg, seized the dagger, and sprinted into the forest, my pulse pounding.Reading on Amazon or a pirate site? This novel is from Royal Road. Support the author by reading it there. Not so fast, young man! As I sprinted, the ground suddenly surged up around me, walls of dirt rising like hands closing into a fist. I spun left, only to see the earth shifting again, boxing me in. Within moments, all four sides were sealed tight. I was trapped. Suzan pushed herself up, dusting off and clapping her hands together with an unsettling smirk. As she spread her hands apart, a sword materialised, floating in midair. She snatched it by the hilt and swung with a force that sent a gust of wind barreling toward me, knocking me back a few steps. They had spellsmagic I hadnt even heard of. My body ached from wounds that hadnt fully healed, and the weight of it all hit me: I didnt stand a chance. I had to escape, somehow. Where are your manners? Suzan taunted, her voice dripping with sarcasm. Clearly, someone needs to teach you some respect. Just let me go, I pleaded, struggling to keep the desperation out of my voice. You dont have to do this. Ill keep my mouth shut. I wont tell the guards you were here. Oh, you think I trust you? Her eyes narrowed. Id be an idiot. Thanks to that blabbering headmaster, everyone knows my real name, and now theyre after me. We can still walk away, I tried again, searching for any crack in her resolve. This doesnt have to end in blood. Oh, but it does, she purred, a cruel gleam in her eyes. Ill find a new town, open my little tavern, and youll be the special on the menu. Youre insane. Who isnt? She laughed, gesturing grandly. We live in insane times, dont we? Before I could respond, she snapped her sword, and a dark, whip-like energy lashed out, striking my arm with a sharp sting. I gritted my teeth, staggering back as pain flared, only to trip over a rock and hit the ground hard. Suzan closed the distance in an instant, pressing her boot firmly onto my chest, her smirk hovering above me. Goodbye, Axy-Axy. Get off me! I managed, grabbing her leg and shoving her back, scrambling to my feet just in time for a fireball to slam into me, sent flying by her mothers quick spell. I slammed into the dirt wall, barely recovering before Suzan landed a solid kick to my chest. I tumbled backward, crashing into a weak tree that snapped under the impact, pinning my arm beneath it. Grunting, I freed myself just as another attack loomed. This time, the old woman conjured razor-sharp ice shards that hung menacingly in the air before streaking toward me. I twisted to dodge two, but one embedded itself deep into my shoulder. Pain tore through me as I leaned against the nearest tree, gasping for breath, my mind clouded with panic. Surprise, surprise! Suzan laughed as she kicked the ice shard, driving it deeper. The blade pinned me in place, anchoring me painfully to the tree. I forced myself to raise my hand, gritting my teeth as I summoned that faint warmth. And then, fireballsdozens of themblasted from my palm in rapid succession like a minigun. Suzans eyes widened as she danced out of the way, deflecting them with her sword. Her mother quickly summoned a barrier, the flames dispersing harmlessly against the shield. What the hell? Suzan blurted, shock flashing across her face. How are you casting like that? Just leave me alone, I growled, ripping the ice blade from my shoulder with a shudder, blood dripping down my arm. This isnt necessary. Just go. Suzans mother glanced around. Theyre waking up. We need to gonow. Suzans sneer faltered, her bravado slipping. Fine. But Ill be seeing you again, Axy-Axy. Ugh Well, at least I got this! With a mocking wave, she flashed the Queens dagger, her eyes dancing with malice before she disappeared into the darkness. As the walls receded, melting back into the earth, I slumped against the tree, spitting blood onto the ground. Id failed to get the dagger back but at least I was alive. That was way too close. Chapter 40: For everyone鈥檚 safety As I exhaled sharply, I sank to the ground, staring up at the night sky. My breath was ragged, and my chest rose and fell as I tried to steady myself. The distant murmurs of guards waking drifted through the air, none of them yet aware of what had happened. My eyes slipped closed, frustration settling inthe dagger and Suzan had slipped through my fingers. I felt a pang of exhaustion mixed with a strange hollow ache, but my expression remained impassive, my gaze lifelessly fixed on the moon. After a few moments, I forced myself to sit up and shook off the weariness. I pushed to my feet just as one of the guards, gripping his sword, approached. His brow furrowed as he took in the surroundings, his gaze finally landing on the jagged wound in my shoulder, still raw from the ice shard. Damn, he muttered, clearly taken aback. What happened here? Suzan and her mother ambushed us, I explained, swallowing back any emotion. The soupshe spiked it. You all were out cold. His jaw tightened. That cunt whered they go? I fought them off. But they escaped. I gestured to my shoulder, still throbbing. They were stronger than me. He grimaced, muttering under his breath. Figures And here we are, needing a so-called milk-drinker to save us. What a disgrace. I could use some healing, though. Think you can help? Yeah, yeah. He gestured toward a healer in the distance. Come on over here; weve got someone for that. Thanks. I followed him, clutching my injured shoulder, each step hurting like hell. My whole body slumped forward, favouring my injured leg as I walked. The chill of the night bit into my wounds, and my shoulder stung as if freshly torn. I was beyond weary of getting beaten down like this; in my old life, Id always kept my head down, avoided trouble. But here, I had no choiceno easy way out of these brutal confrontations. The guard motioned to a nearby bench, and I sank onto it, hardly caring about the splintered wood beneath me. He exchanged a few words with a long-haired healer, who approached with a gentle but serious expression. Let me see that wound, the healer said, gesturing for me to expose my shoulder. With a nod, I moved my hand away from the injury. He examined it closely, frowning, then took a seat beside me. He held his palms up, closing his eyes, and a faint green glow illuminated his hands. I felt a soft warmth as he pressed them near my shoulder, the magic working to close the wound. The pain, however, pulsed hotter, and I clenched my fist, pounding it on my knee to keep myself from flinching. My vision blurred momentarily as I pitched forward, barely catching myself in time. After a few long moments, the healer let out a breath. That should hold for now. Youre tough. He looked at me curiously. Mind telling me who you are? Axel, I replied quietly, resting my head on my knee, looking at the ground. Im here for the Queens dagger. I lost it here. The healers eyes widened slightly. Maybe it got lost in the skirmish? No, I saw it, I said bitterly. That woman---Suzan has it. She showed it off right in front of me. Thats not good news. He glanced over his shoulder, a trace of worry in his gaze. Any idea where she went? I exhaled heavily. She talked about skipping townsetting up shop somewhere else, serving special dishes to whoevers unlucky enough to cross her path.Unauthorized use: this story is on Amazon without permission from the author. Report any sightings. The healer grimaced. So why come here? Why target us? Gold, most likely. I caught her looting the guards, I replied, weariness dragging down my words. Damn it He clenched his fists, his voice thick with frustration. She played us for fools. The guard with the sword nodded grimly. Best you stay the night here, lad. If shes still out there, waiting for another chance, youll be safer with us. Yeah, I agreed, the exhaustion weighing on me. Probably the smart move. He motioned toward the cabin. Get yourself some rest. Well set up a few makeshift beds. Thanks, I said, nodding my gratitude. The guard grumbled under his breath, casting a last look toward the darkened woods. What a damn night TTTTTT?TTTTTT Standing before the Academy, I took in the massive structure, hands tucked deep into my pockets. The headmaster had made it clearRedwood at noon. But I couldnt. That insane woman, Suzan, and the dagger were out there, I had to find them before I found myself hanging by a tree. Escaping this world could wait; so could finding answers in dusty books. For now, I had no choice but to follow this strange path. I pulled up my hood and started away from the Academy. My clothes were a mess, torn and stained, though my cape partly concealed the worst of it. As I walked, snippets of conversation drifted through the air. Did you hear about the cannibals? a woman asked her friend in hushed horror. Thank the gods I didnt eat there. Her friend shuddered. Theyre as bad as the elves. The gods save us from them all. Human meat! Fed their customers human meat! the woman shrieked, her voice wavering. What a sick world this is. And dogs, too! Thats why no one in my neighborhood can find their pets just vile. Rounding a corner, I caught sight of two elves shackled to the wall, their bruised faces pressed against the cold stone. Their bodies bore fresh marks from some cruel treatment, and judging by the guards sneers, these elves werent meant to live much longer. They were likely waiting for their turn at the gallows. I limped to a nearby bench and sat, my gaze fixed on the grim sight. The guards yanked them roughly each time they moved, slapping them silent if they dared to speak. People passed, muttering darkly. Cannibals. Elves. a man scoffed. Whats next? Those damned elves, muttered another voice behind me. Bet they had a hand in it, somehow. An older man chimed in, nodding in agreement. You can see the connection. I rubbed my wounded leg, stretching my sore arm to ease the pain, then rose, aching all over. Id only managed six hours of sleep, my insomnia gnawing away at what little rest Id hoped for. Everything felt twisted. I adjusted my hood and moved on toward the tavern, the one where Suzan and her mother had served their gruesome dishes. The thought turned my stomach, but I couldnt ignore the possibility that theyd left some clue behind. A criers voice broke the murmur of the crowd as he walked down the street, flanked by two guards. Unrolling a parchment, he began, By order of the Queen, a curfew will begin at midnight! For the next fourteen days, no one shall be out after that hour. Spread the word! About time, a woman muttered nearby. Its for everyones safety. Another man nodded. Exactly. With those wretched elves and that madwoman loose, we need it. Right? I turned right, making my way past a tailor shop, then walked another five minutes before reaching the tavern. The rain had finally ceased, clouds giving way to a pale sun, which cast a grim light over the place. The front of the building was crawling with guards, ten at leastno chance Suzan and her mother were still here. But there was always the chance of a lead, something left behind that might point me in their direction. Halt, one of the guards barked as I approached the door, stepping forward with a firm hand held up. Whats your business here? Im here for the Queens lost dagger, I replied, standing straight. Names A Axel, he interrupted, giving me a knowing look. I remember when the Queen gave you that dagger. Havent found it yet, I see? Not yet, sir. He grunted, folding his arms. Alright. Go in, but dont linger. Hmm. Thank you, sir. Chapter 41: Some clue The guard pushed the door open, and I stepped into a tavern that looked like it had been through a war. Tables lay overturned, unwashed plates cluttered the bar, and dirt streaked the floormuddy boot prints probably left by guards searching the place earlier. All the windows were covered with thick curtains, making the dim interior feel oppressive. I circled the room, slipping behind the bar to search the shelves. A few papers caught my eye, so I pulled them out and spread them on the counter. They turned out to be uselessrecords of beer, wine and water shipments. Frustrated, I shoved them back and kept going. There has to be something here something My eyes drifted to the wall behind the bar. I recalled that Suzan had entered from a door back here when she first met me. But now, instead of a door, there was a bookshelf standing oddly out of place. I moved to its side and gave it a push, revealing a hidden door behind it. My heart jumpedbut as soon as I opened it, disappointment set in. It led only to a tiny, empty room, barely large enough for a couple of toilets. To the right, a fancy-looking landscape painting hung on the wall, adding to the feeling that I was being taunted by dead ends. Damn it nothing. Frustrated, I turned back toward the bar, gripping the counter as I leaned forward, mentally retracing Suzans every move. Shed once mentioned that the painting had cut her finger I froze, eyes narrowing at the painting. Without wasting a second, I moved closer, inspecting its frame and running my hand along its edges. A slight resistance met my fingers on the backside of the frame. Taking a breath, I pressed the hidden buttonand the wall in front of me began to slide up, stopping at knee height to reveal a narrow opening. I crouched, wincing as my injured leg throbbed, and shone my phone''s flashlight into the gap. Id have to crawl a couple of metres to reach the next room, but it was a risk worth taking. Please let this lead to something Ignoring the discomfort, I crawled through the opening, the confined space adding to my growing anxiety. On the other side, I stood and dusted myself off, taking in the small, dim room. A tall, wide bookshelf dominated the left wall, packed with books and tomes. To the right of the shelf stood a wooden table, covered in papers, while directly across from it was a closed door. A metal chain dangled ominously from the ceiling to my immediate right, the shackles at its end crusted with dried blood. The floor beneath it was stained dark red. What what is this place? I approached the table and sat, picking up one of the papers. It was a map of Kinowa and its surrounding areas, marked with red circles around certain spots, including a forest location connected to the city by a black ink line. Setting the map aside, I grabbed another papera list of names with disturbing notes next to each: ?Adeye Ur Both legs ?That bearded elf Both arms and legsIf you spot this story on Amazon, know that it has been stolen. Report the violation. ?Karayu Julie Heart ?Siblings Head-arms-legs... I don''t want to do this anymore. Gods help me. A chopping list? I shivered, setting it down as I reached for a letter. I pulled out the paper inside, but it only mentioned a beer delivery scheduled for tomorrowcompletely irrelevant to what I needed. Turning to face the door across the room, I tried to open it, only to find it had no handle. Frustration bubbling up, I searched along the walls, feeling for another hidden button or switch, but nothing turned up. There had to be a way forwardI just hadnt found it yet. Hmm. I threw my uninjured shoulder into the door, hoping to knock it down, but it barely budged, solid as if it were made of metal rather than wood. Frustrated, I took a few steps back, leaning against the bookshelf while I rubbed my chin. One by one, I pulled on the books, hoping they might trigger some hidden mechanismjust like in those old movies. Nothing. Sighing, I gathered the papers from the table, stuffed them into my back pocket, and scratched my head. There had to be a way to get through this door. Alright lets try this. I braced myself, took a deep breath, then sprinted toward the door, kicking it with all my strength. But it held firm, leaving me sprawled on the floor, gripping my leg in pain. Grimacing, I started to push myself up when something caught my eyea small lever tucked beneath the table, almost completely hidden from view. I hobbled over and pulled the lever. A faint click echoed as the lock disengaged. Grateful, I hauled myself up and opened the door, revealing a narrow ladder descending through a cramped opening, barely larger than a manhole. I shone my phones light below, assessing the drop. It wasnt too far, but my battered body wouldnt handle a jump well. Gripping the ladder, I descended carefully, feeling the air around me grow colder with each step. Somewhere below, I heard water dripping in steady, echoing drops, the sound coming from deeper in the darkness. What fresh hell is this I muttered as I reached the bottom, casting my phones light around. The space opened into a circular chamber, like a cavecold, damp, and eerily silent. Bats clung to the ceiling, some taking flight as I disturbed the air. There wasnt a single light source, and without my phones flashlight, I wouldve been lost. I took a cautious step forwardonly for my phones flashlight to flicker off, leaving me in total darkness. Cursing under my breath, I waited, letting the phone cool, then pressed forward blindly. Every step felt like a gamble, as if something could leap from the shadows at any moment. Finally, my phone flickered back to life, and as I swept the light around the room, I froze, horrified by what it revealed. Along the cave walls were cages, each holding the remains of someone long gone. Limbs were missing, heads lolling at grotesque angles. The bodies inside were in various stages of decay, some with flesh clinging to bone, others reduced to little more than skeletons. There were at least ten cages, and not a single one held anyone alive. My stomach lurched as I took it all in, bile rising in my throat. Fuck me I managed, swallowing hard. What is this place? Scattered throughout the cave were severed limbs, likely taken from those unlucky enough to end up here. Every time my flashlight swept over a new section, it revealed something worsea detached arm, a skull with hollow eye sockets. This was beyond anything I could stomach. Id had enough of this nightmarish world. Turning on my heel, I bolted back to the ladder, ignoring the pain that flared with each step, and scrambled up. Once I made it through the crawl space and back into the main tavern, I collapsed on the floor, panting heavily, my heart racing. Alright I mumbled, clutching my stomach to keep from vomiting. At least Ive got these papers maybe theyll have something useful. Some clue I hope. TTTTTT?TTTTTT Chapter 42: Through the mud Seeing that Phobe wasnt behind the counter, I quickly ascended the stairs to my room, locking the door behind me. I spread the papers from the tavern across the bed, then pulled the chest over to sit on and began examining them. Kinowa was circled on the map in thick black ink. A green line, if I had it right, led from the east gates, snaking through the forest toward that same cabin where Id been taken. But along this path, red circles marked spots with small scrawled notes, like base1 and base2. A darker green circle caught my attention, near the well I''d seen in the forest, about fifteen minutes on horseback. I muttered under my breath, Their second base, maybe? I set that map aside and unrolled another paper. This one detailed Kinowa and its surroundings even more. The well, the cabin, and the green and red circles were all marked here too, but with more specifics. Above the dark green circle was a sloppy note: Kora Village, direct the goblins there, scoop up the dead, new base plus food. I clenched my fists. Mortan had mentioned a goblin raid on a villagethis had to be it. Damn it So she was behind that attack. I rubbed the back of my neck, frustrated. I could try to investigate the base myself, but those two were stronger than me; there was no chance Id make it out alive. Id have to tell the guards. Level 2: Axel HP: [?????] 50/110 Mana: [????????] -1/100 Stamina: [???????] 43/120 Options: [Inv | Skills | Quests(!)] I noticed an exclamation mark beside the quest option on my HUD. Curious, I tapped it, bringing up a new translucent box. ================ NEW QUEST ================ Quest Title: Queens dagger -------------------------- Deadline: Today Objective: * Get the Queens dagger before midnight. Alone. -------------------------- Rewards: - Gold: 2 - Experience: 25 XP ========================== [Accept] [Decline] [Enhance] I sighed, stepping over to the window. Rain was still coming down hard, and the few people on the street looked miserable like me. I could try declining the quest, but failure to deliver the dagger would likely cost me my life anyway. And---getting there alone? My plan had been to let the guards know about the place and have them raid it. Honestly, I wouldnt have even thought twice about declining the quest if that crazy bitch hadnt stolen my money. But I needed the cash to survive. Five gold would make all the difference. Since discovering my new skillthe fireballI might even be able to have a fighting chance and get the dagger. Unless, of course, shed already fenced it off. It was a risk I was willing to take. With that money, I could buy better armour and pay the rent for the Academy dorms. I tapped Enhance, wondering what it would add. ================ NEW QUEST ================Stolen content warning: this content belongs on Royal Road. Report any occurrences. Quest Title: Queens dagger Through the mud -------------------------- Deadline: Today Objective: * Get the Queens dagger before midnight. Alone. * Kill Suzan and her mother. -------------------------- Rewards: - Gold: 2 7 - Experience: 25 XP 75XP - 1x Common item material - 1x Uncommon item material - 1x Rare item material - 1x Epic item material - 1x Exotic item material ========================== [Accept] [Decline] I shuddered, realising Id have to kill them both to complete this version of the quest. Grimacing, I declined that option and accepted the original quest. Sighing, I slumped back onto the chest, deep in thought. I had the location of their hideout, but no way to get there. I needed a horse or something. Ugh where to get a horse, now I muttered, opening the door. Oh! Phobe gasped, hand raised to knock. I heard what happened Im sorry, hon, for dragging you into all this. Its fine, I replied, keeping my voice neutral. You couldnt have known. Her brow creased with worry. The guards mentioned you were hurt. Are you alright? Yeah, yeah, I assured her. Thank you for asking, maam, but I need to head out. Oh, school, right? Arent you late? Uh, yeah. I said with a dull tone.. Definitely late. Id better hurry. See you later? She nodded, her smile tight. Stay safe, hon. Keep away from that woman if you can. I nodded, stepping past her and heading downstairs. Hunger gnawed at my stomach, a cold ache spread through my body, and every step felt unsteady. I needed to sleep---heal a bit, but I didnt have the time, not while Suzan had the Queens dagger with her. I had no other choice but to keep going. My hand reached the door handle, but my stomachs protest stopped me in my tracks. Reluctantly, I turned back. I had to eat something. At the counter, a woman stood behind the bar, ladling oatmeal from a pot. It looked plain, basic, but it was better than nothing. I leaned on the counter, my face as dull as ever. "Could I get a bowl of oatmeal, please?" I asked, my voice weary. "Think I could pay later? She shook her head, already reaching for a bowl. "No need. Phobes orders. Youre covered today; she feels responsible for everything." Oh I murmured, a little taken aback. Thank you, thats kind of her. Thank her, not me, she replied, placing the bowl and a spoon in front of me. I sat down with the bowl, wanting to savour it, thinking it might be my last meal for a while. It tasted bland, like the kind of food my mom used to make when shed tossed random ingredients together when she was high on drugs. But Id gotten used to eating whatever was in front of me; years of weird dinners had numbed my taste buds to almost anything. You look rough, she observed, drying a plate as I took another spoonful. I nodded, pausing to chew. She handed me a cup of water, her gaze shifting back to her work. Yeah Its been complicated, I finally admitted, stirring the oatmeal absently. Queens dagger, right? she asked with a faint, sympathetic smile. Youve got the worst luck. So unlucky. I raised an eyebrow, surprised. Howd you know about that? My boyfriends a royal guard. He mentioned it, she explained, her tone warm but serious. I hope you find it in time. I exhaled, taking a sip of the water. Thanks Lets hope so. You couldve sat down, you know, she added, eyeing me with concern. Why the rush? Oh, just late for school, I lied, scratching the back of my neck. She chuckled, shaking her head. Right, Im helping you skip class! Youre probably missing the first lesson as we speak. I nodded, scooping the last bite. Guess so. Thanks for the meal; it was great. Good luck out there, she called, waving as I headed for the door. I murmured back, half to myself, Yeah luck. TTTTTT?TTTTTT Chapter 43: See it through With my worn-out shield taken from my inventory, I ascended the stairs toward Mortans blacksmith shop. Outside, by the door, I noticed a man in his forties sharpening a knife. He glanced up when I walked up, pausing to set the knife on a nearby crate. Dusting his hands, he grabbed a towel hanging by the window and gave them a quick wipe. Hey, I greeted him, holding up the shield. I, uh, wanted to sell this. He took the shield from me, turning it over and inspecting it closely. Mmkay Wheres Mortan? I asked, curious. He didnt look up from the shield. Visiting his wifes grave. I blinked in surprise. I thought his wife was alive? He even offered me a sandwich she made. The mans eyes flickered, not missing a beat in his examination. His second wifes alive. The first passed away when they were eighteen. Oh and his son, is he from the first marriage or second? Second, he replied, giving a slight nod. Got it. Finally, he looked up, meeting my gaze. I can give you two silver for this, he said, holding up the shield. Would that be enough to get a ride to a nearby village? I asked, feeling the familiar weight of my limited funds. Carriage services run around five silver, he said, tucking the shield away beside the knife hed been sharpening. You might try the stableowners son offers rides at a bargain. He raised an eyebrow. So, still want to sell? ====================== |Inventory ====================== --------------------------- | Gold: 4 --------------------------- | [Empty] --------------------------- | [Empty] --------------------------- | [Empty] --------------------------- | [Empty] ====================== Noting the four gold still in my inventory, I nodded, signaling my decision. He reached into his pocket, counted out two silver, and handed it to me with a nod. Thanks, I said, pocketing the coins. Take care. You too, kid, he replied, already focused back on his work.If you discover this tale on Amazon, be aware that it has been unlawfully taken from Royal Road. Please report it. I left the shop and headed toward the stable. As I stepped through the gates, though, I felt a strong grip on my arm, halting me mid-step. I turned around to see a guard studying me with a scrutinising gaze. I could tell he was wondering why a student was leaving during school hours, and Id have to think fast. Swallowing, I fixed my eyes on him, keeping my expression steady. He let go of my arm and looked at me in the eyes. So, he began, what business does a student have leaving the city at this hour? Thought you were supposed to be in class. I straightened. I have permission from the Queen herself, I replied smoothly. Im on a mission to recover her lost dagger. He raised an eyebrow, clearly intrigued. Ah, so her Highness sent you? I heard about the missing dagger. And she picked you to retrieve it? Yes, sir, I said, my tone unwavering. It was stolen on my watch. I have to make things right. He studied me for a long moment, scepticism flickering in his gaze. Then wheres your permit? Got anything in writing to confirm this? My heart sank, but I kept my voice steady. It was an unofficial assignment. No papers, just her orders. He shook his head, unimpressed. Unofficial or not, you need proof. Head back to Redwood now, he ordered, gesturing back toward the city gates, or Ill escort you myself. I tried one last time. But No buts, he interrupted firmly. Back to class. Slumping my shoulders, I turned back toward the gates, frustration gnawing at me. I needed a way out of the cityjust not through the main entrance where guards were too alert. Trying any of the other gates felt just as risky. I had to find a way to slip past unnoticed and make it to the stable. Thinking it over, I headed toward Mortans blacksmith shop, then ascended the stairs opposite, reaching the upper street. I scanned the area, weighing my options. Where now? I muttered under my breath, glancing around. A few patrolling guards shot me suspicious glances, and I quickly pulled my hood up, walking away at a casual pace. I couldnt go back to Redwood and sit through classes like everything was normal. I had a job to doa desperate one. I had to find Suzan and recover the Queens dagger, or my own neck would end up in a noose. I ducked into a narrow alleyway, pacing in circles as the urgency of my situation mounted. Alright Suzan said guards change shifts at certain times. Maybe I could slip through then? It was a long shot, but it was all I had. Hoping this would work, I left the alley and headed down the stairs to the lower street, keeping my distance from the guards as I searched for a spot to wait. As if on cue, Mortan appeared, his face a shade darker, his pace slower. He walked toward his shop, offering a tired smile to the man working inside. I was a little further away, but I also could see them clearly from where I hid between two buildings. Mortan gave the man a pat on the shoulder, and they exchanged a few words before the man cleaned his hands on a towel, removed his gloves, and stepped away. Mortan hadnt noticed me; his gaze was fixed on the ground, lost in thought. Knowing hed just come back from his first wifes grave, it wasnt hard to guess why he looked so worn. Did you hear me? a voice drifted out from the tavern next door, sharp enough to cut through the air. We have to intervene in that tournament. She has to win. And how, exactly? replied a woman, her voice low but still audible. Are we just going to jump into the arena and beat her opponent if it gets close? I dont know, the man muttered. But we took the job. Weve gotta see it throughor who knows whatll happen to us. You idiot. I warned you not to take that job, she huffed. Youre so dense. The pay was good, alright? What would you have me do? I stayed rooted in place, listening to their bickering through the window just above my head. They sounded like the kind of people I didnt want to be seen by. Back in my own world, the most illegal thing Id done was pocket a stick of gum as a kid. I wasnt exactly a saint, but I wasnt like them, either. The conversation died down, and I glanced toward the city gates, shifting from one foot to the other as I waited. My window of time was shrinking. If I didnt find a way out soon, I might as well save the Queen the trouble and hang myself from the nearest tree. After five minutes, the man inside the tavern sighed, and I heard the woman mutter something, though it was too quiet to make out. Just as I thought about inching closer, I caught a glimpse of the guards at the front entrance switching shifts. Finallymy cue. Yes---alright nows my chance. Chapter 44: Kora Leaving my hiding spot, I caught sight of two guards descending the stairs to the lower street, while the ones stationed at the gates headed toward the stairs, likely off for a meal or drink. This was my moment; if I moved quietly and quickly, I could slip out through the unguarded main gates. I pulled my hood down lower, fists clenched, and exhaled slowly. If this didnt work, they''d haul me back to school. I couldnt let that happen. As the two groups of guards converged briefly in the middle of the streetone pair moving to the stairs, the other toward the gatesI seized my chance. Moving at a brisk pace, I passed them, my heart pounding as I half-expected someone to call me back. But no one did. With the last step, I was outside the city walls, glancing at the stable a few paces ahead where the owner sat on a stool, chewing on a piece of grass. Alright I muttered, striding toward the stable. The man from earlier, the one who suggested checking with the old woman about her ring, looked up and gave a nod. Well, if it isnt you. Did you find that ring, kid? Yes, sir. Thanks for the tip. I said to the stable owner. Good, good. He got up slowly, dusting off his hands. So, what brings you back here? I need a ride to uh I struggled to recall the villages name. Kora Village. Urgent business. Kora? That place overrun by goblins? He eyed me curiously. What in the worlds got you heading there? Its personal. I replied. Can you take me, or know someone who can? He chuckled. Not me, kid. But my son can. He pointed toward a carriage a few metres away, where a young coachman lounged, idly adjusting the reins. Go have a word with him. Thank you, sir. I nodded. Just stay safe. He called after me with a small wave. I walked over to the carriage and gave a nod to the coachman, a tall man in his late twenties with sharp eyes and a rough stubble across his jaw. He glanced at me with a raised eyebrow, his gaze appraising. Hello, I greeted. Can you take me to Kora? Kora? His eyebrow inched higher. Odd place to be headed. You sure? Yeah. Personal reasons. I held his gaze, hoping he wouldnt pry further. How much for the trip? Five silver. Just by thinking I opened my inventory, focused on withdrawing five silver, and a small prompt appeared, asking for confirmation. With a quick nod, the HUD faded, and in an instant, the coins materialised in my palm, faint golden light shimmering as they settled.Unauthorized duplication: this narrative has been taken without consent. Report sightings. I handed him the coins and climbed into the back of the carriage. It wasnt the most comfortable setup, but at least it had a covered seat with curtains to block out the wind and rain. Kora the coachman muttered as he flicked the reins. Had some good folks there once. I glanced at him sympathetically. Sorry to hear that. He grunted, his voice laced with bitterness. Bet it was the elves behind it, pushing those goblins toward the village. Always been troublemakers. Maybe I said, keeping my tone neutral, though I knew it was Suzans doing. Couldve been them. Either way, its a real shame. Damn right, he muttered, shaking his head as we began our journey. TTTTTT?TTTTTT As the carriage slowed, I parted the curtains at the back to get a sense of where I was. The dirt road behind us was uneven, scattered with potholes and rain-filled puddles. The sky had turned dark, heavy clouds blotting out the sun as a cold wind swept through, making the tree branches sway wildly. Oddly enough, it felt a bit like home, if only for a moment. When the carriage came to a stop, I hopped out and walked over to the coachman, who was scanning the area with a wary eye. I couldnt blame him; something about this place felt wrong, like we were being watched. "This is it," he said, nodding toward the dark path ahead. "Just keep walking that way. Youll reach Kora." Got it. Thanks. He nodded. Good luck whatever it is youre doing out here. Hmm. I watched as he turned the carriage around, heading back toward Kinowa. Once he was out of sight, I took a slow look around. The eerie quiet settled in, and the unease Id been suppressing rose back up. Somewhere ahead, Suzan might be hiding. A part of me wanted to turn back, to report her to the guards and let them deal with it. But that could take time, and who knew if theyd even reward me for the risk. I needed the gold; maybe that was a little selfish, but it felt like my best option. I adjusted my cloak, draping it over my shoulder. The rain beat down, cold and relentless, slipping through the torn patches in my clothes. Calm down, Ax, I muttered, forcing myself to breathe. Youve got this. Bracing against the wind, I took my first steps forward. The rain slapped my face, the storm intensifying by the second. My shoulder wound and the claw marks across my back flared up, stinging with each gust. This had to be one of the worst days of my life well, maybe second-worst. Once I entered the forest where the coachman had pointed, the wind lessened a bit, and I could finally walk at a normal pace. I tried to stretch my arm, rotating it gently to ease the pain. But each movement only made the wound throb harder. "Ugh it hurts." Ahead, I spotted a bridge stretching over a deep ravine, maybe twenty or thirty metres below, with a river rushing beneath. The bridge was old and weather-beaten, the wood creaking in the wind. In any other situation, I wouldnt have set foot on it, but I didnt have the time or energy to look for another way across. I placed one foot on the bridge, testing the weight. It held, so I took a few cautious steps, gripping the cracked rail tightly. Each gust made the bridge sway, and my heart pounded with every creak. Come on, come on just a little further. Finally, I made it across. Exhaling in relief, I looked up and saw the village just visible through the trees. I was close. Alright, I murmured to myself, steeling my nerves. I can do this I can do this. Chapter 45: Dont look back Emerging from the forest, I took in the grim sight of Kora Village. It was in ruinshouses burned and shattered, fields reduced to ashes, and the ground littered with traces of violence. Bloodstains smeared the earth, and bits of organs remained scattered around, though Mortan had already cleared away the human corpses, leaving only the dead goblins sprawled about. Their small, green bodies with pointy ears seemed surreal, as if staring too long dulled my sense of reality. It was like a word repeated too many times, losing all meaning. I moved cautiously toward the village center, keeping an eye out for any possible hideouts. If Suzan and her mother were anywhere here, theyd be hiding in a place chosen carefully, not just any random building. "Where would a maniac set up shop?" I murmured, scanning the surroundings. To my right stood a blacksmith shop. I stepped inside through the broken doors. The place was stripped bare; every tool, every scrap of metal was gone, even the counters. All that remained were the dust-filled outlines of where they used to stand. There were no other exits or hidden spaces here. Nothing useful. I left the blacksmith shop and walked toward a small tavern nearby. The village was tiny, just a handful of houses, a tavern, and a two-story blacksmith shop with a tailor''s entrance via an exterior staircase leading to the second floor. Where are you, Suzan? I muttered. Shes probably rigged some hidden mechanism again. Inside the tavern, I was met with an eerie sight: a man and a woman lying near the entrance, their lifeless hands still clasped together. The horror frozen on their faces was chilling. Stepping carefully around them, I glanced around. The place was gutted; counters, tables, chairseverything was gone. Whoever cleaned this place out had done a thorough job. "Nothing left," I muttered. Could it have been Suzan? Suddenly, I heard footsteps nearby and quickly ducked behind a fallen horse. It was massive, its thick gray fur a clear indication it wasnt just any ordinary horse. Crouching behind it, I could stay out of sight, even though the animals body had been hollowed out, leaving an unsettling hole where its organs used to be. Did you loot these idiots? A gruff voice called out, close by. Yeah, those goblins? Got everything, another voice replied, closer now. I know, right? One of them had two gold coins. These little bastards are richer than us. Yeah. Alright. All the houses, too? Houses? Mm yeah, except the one with the pink roof. Fine, Ill check that one. Then we should go, the weather is messing me up. Uh-uh. I swore under my breaththe house with the pink roof was right next to me. My mind raced for a solution as their footsteps neared. With no other option, I held my breath, squeezing myself into the horses hollowed-out body, fighting a wave of nausea as blood dripped onto me from inside. My clothes were instantly soaked, the smell revolting.If you stumble upon this narrative on Amazon, be aware that it has been stolen from Royal Road. Please report it. Damn it damn it I whispered, trying to keep calm. Oi! one of them shouted, stopping beside the horse carcass Id hidden in. You sure you emptied this beast? Huh? the other called out from inside the house. Yeah, I cleaned it, man. Relax. The first looter grumbled, shaking the horses body slightly, causing me to shift inside. Are you sure? Because you throw up at the sight of blood, he taunted. Human blood, moron, his friend snapped back. Human blood. Human or not, blood is blood, idiot. It doesnt matter. It does for me. "Ugh, this thing stinks," the man groaned. Thinking ahgain, maybe I wont check "Thank god I muttered under my breath, praying hed leave. Just go away. Yes! The other one said. A little trust is what Im asking for. Trust--- He chuckled. Yeah. Trusting you. The man who would sell her own mother for just a bit of gold. Fucking asswipe. That was uncalled for. Eh, you know what---nah, better safe than sorry. He stepped around to the back of the horse, just where Id crawled inside. My heart pounded, the smell, the blood, the fearit was overwhelming. I had to act, or Id be found. The looter peeled back the ragged wound his friend had carved into the horse, peering inside. He barely had a second to register my presence before I lunged forward, hitting him in the face like a cheap jumpscare. He stumbled, surprised, his balance wavering. Just beyond him, through a window, I could see his partner looting without a care. I couldnt let him see me. I didnt waste a second, locking my arm around his throat and pulling him to the ground, dragging him into the hollow carcass. He clawed at my arm and face, his nails scraping against my skin as he fought for air. His hand darted toward the dagger in his boot, but his swipes with it were wild, uncoordinated. Fear surged through me as I held my grip, tightening until he went limp. Damn it I muttered, finally letting go and stepping back to calm my shaking hands. Shit shit. Okay. Its done. Okay. He was still breathing, thank the godI hadnt gone that far. Knocking him out was my only option, but seeing him lying there, I couldnt help but feel a surge of guilt. I was becoming something I barely recognized in this world. Taking his dagger, I slipped out of the carcass. His friend was still busy looting, visible through the cracked window. Judging by the mess theyd left, these two were likely behind the ransacking of the village. I couldn''t keep searching the village with him around. Id have to take him down too Just keep your head down don''t look back I whispered to myself, inching closer. I had barely moved into position when he walked back outside, arms loaded with a coat and shirt. I pressed myself flat against the wall, holding my breath. Ten seconds ticked by. He strolled past me, completely unaware. I took a quiet step forward, wrapped my arm around his throat, and pulled him down with me. He struggled, thrashing to break free, but I held tight, fear lending strength to my grip. I didn''t let go, not until his body went slack, his mouth hanging open as a string of saliva dripped down. I released him and stood up, my hands trembling. Sorry, I whispered, guilt heavy in my voice. What am I doing? Knocking people out, hurting them. This isn''t me. Shaking off the chill that had settled over me, I straightened and moved further into the village, still uneasy, but focused. Chapter 46: Not like this With a shaky breath, I entered another house. As expected, it was stripped barenothing of interest at first glance. I scanned the walls, pressing here and there, hoping for some hidden mechanism, a clue that Suzan might have left behind. But I found nothing. Taking a deep breath, I stepped back outside and looked around. Suzan could have already left, but giving up wasnt an option. I had to keep moving. Across from me was another building, a two-story house, distinct from the others. I approached the slightly open door and nudged it further, slipping inside. The scene was grim. Blood smeared across the walls, brain matter staining a rug near the entrance. Straight ahead lay the kitchen, just a few steps away, while to my right was the living room, where two old couches faced a wardrobe pushed against the wall. To my left was a table with six chairs, remnants of rotten food scattered across it. Empty I muttered to myself, frustration starting to build. I moved cautiously, shoving the couches aside, hoping to uncover some hidden trapdoor or panel. But all I found were dust bunnies. Next, I opened the wardrobe, half-hoping for a secret passage like in the stories. No luckjust old robes hanging inside. The kitchen was equally barren. I sifted through counters and shelves, searching for anything that might point to Suzan or her mothera forgotten personal item, a trace theyd been here. Another dead end, I grumbled. I stepped outside, then froze, a thought crossing my mind. This house had an upstairs, but I hadnt seen any stairs inside. I re-entered, double-checking every room, every corner. No stairs. Odd. I returned to the yard and examined the upper windows. They were boarded up with planks. Something about that was suspiciousmy gut told me I was close. Back inside, I meticulously searched every crevice, pressing on walls, tapping around the floors, feeling for a lever or a hidden switch. But after scouring every inch, I still came up empty. Suzan was a crafty one; shed hidden whatever she was hiding well. Hmm Frustrated, I leaned against the table, arms crossed, and scanned the room. Everything looked worn and aged, as though it belongedexcept for one thing. The couch by the window looked newer, out of place next to its older, faded counterpart. I walked over, giving it a good shove. Less dust covered it compared to the rest, a detail Id overlooked before. I crouched down, tipping the couch back to examine underneath. Nothing. But I couldnt shake the feeling I was missing something crucial. Think, think I lifted one of the cushions, and there, tucked inside, was a small piece of parchment. As I pulled it out, I heard a faint click somewhere in the house, like a lock releasing.This narrative has been unlawfully taken from Royal Road. If you see it on Amazon, please report it. Placing the couch and cushions back as they were, I clenched the parchment, eyes darting around. I needed to locate the source of that sound. Where was that? I murmured, wandering the room as I listened carefully. As I approached a specific spot on the wall, the parchment in my hand began to stiffen, almost as if it were reacting to something. I stopped, glancing down, and moved my hand closer to the wall. The closer I got, the more rigid the parchment became. I was definitely onto something. I noticed a small section of the wall had shifted, revealing a hidden compartment with a narrow slotjust the right size for the parchment. I held it near, and it snapped into place in my hand as if drawn by a magnetic force. Suddenly, I heard the creak of movement, and the ceiling in the living room slid open, revealing a ladder that descended to the floor. Quickly, I darted outside to check on the two men Id knocked out. Both were still out cold. Assured I was alone, I returned inside and began climbing the ladder. My heart raced with each step, half-expecting Suzan or her mother to be waiting above, ready to strike as soon as I peeked out. Pausing halfway, I took out my phone, held it up to check the room through the camera, and saw no one. Good, I muttered, relieved. Once I reached the top, I clapped my hands off and took a look around. I was in a small bedroom with a single bed pressed against one wall and a small wardrobe opposite. The window was tightly boarded, blocking out any light. I opened the door and peered out into a larger area, furnished with a big table in the centre, surrounded by chairs. The walls were decorated with paintings, which made me think that the looters hadnt found this place yet. To my left, I saw another room with a curtain made of rope strands. Through the gaps, I could see that it was empty. Hmm At the far end of the room, near two more boarded windows, there was a small coffee table with a couple of chairs and a book resting on top. The dim light made the room feel eerie, but I didnt need a flashlight just yet. Scanning the floor, I noticed that one area was slightly different in colour, as if there was a staircase before. That part of the room, the left one, looked oddly empty, with darker tones than the rest of the tiles. Okay, I whispered to myself. Please let the dagger be here. Come on I moved into the room with the rope curtain, parting it cautiously and stepping inside. It was sparse, just a small table under a boarded window, with a dark blue book lying on it. My fingers traced over the cover, feeling its rough, almost damp texture, as if it had been left out in the rain. It made an unsettling sound under my touch, almost like pressing on raw meat. I opened it, flipping through the first few pagesempty. No writing, no markings, nothing. This strange book was unsettling, not the kind Id want in my room. What even is this? I muttered. Suddenly, a shout pierced the silence. No! Alert, I perked up, rushed to the window, and gently pried a plank loose just enough to see outside. Suzan stood below, one hand holding a bow and the other an arrow, her expression twisted with anger. She smiled, then nocked an arrow and released it, striking one of the men I had knocked out earlier, the arrow plunging in his head with a sickening thud. He dropped lifelessly to the ground, the arrow sticking out like a grotesque horn. My stomach twisted at the sight, but at least his friend was still safe, hidden inside the horse carcass. Suzan was coming closer, and I knew there was no way to escape without revealing myself. I was trapped Shit. Shit. Shit, I whispered under my breath. Not now. Not like this. Chapter 47: Missed you As the crazed woman entered the house, she stopped abruptly, probably scanning the room. Muttering under her breath, she began pacing with small steps. I slipped back into the room with the trapdoor and threw myself under the bed, heart pounding so hard I feared shed hear it. My hands trembled uncontrollably, sweat rolling down my face as panic surged through me. One mistake, and I was dead. She muttered again, her words muffled, incomprehensible. Then, with slow steps, she climbed the ladder. Each creak of the rungs sent a wave of dread through me, the sound grating against my nerves. "Thieves found this place, huh?" Her voice was sharp, laced with irritation. Reaching the top, she gripped the last rung tightly before hoisting herself up. "Damn idiots." She retracted the ladder and sealed the trapdoor. Her sharp eyes swept the room as she turned to leave but paused suddenly, glancing back over her shoulder. Her jaw clenched, teeth grinding audibly. For a brief moment, her usual mocking smirk vanished, replaced by something much darkerraw hatred. The intensity in her eyes made my skin crawl. She looked like an entirely different person, her demeanour ice-cold and menacing. Shaking her head, she inhaled deeply, holding the breath before releasing it slowly, almost like she was calming herself. Her hand brushed against the hilt of the dagger strapped to her beltthe dagger I needed. If I could just grab it, Id run and never look back. This wasnt about stopping her; it was about surviving. And I needed that dagger to survive. They broke into my home, she hissed, her voice dripping with venom. I should eat them for that alone. Her words sent a chill down my spine. I stayed frozen as she left the room, heading toward the curtained doorway. Quietly, I slid out from under the bed and flattened myself against the wall near the door, peeking out just enough to see her. She was in the other room, holding the strange book Id found earlier. She flipped a page, her expression tightening. She was---reading an empty page? Ill find another one, she muttered, gripping the book like it was her lifeline. I swear. How about that man outside? I leaned a little more, trying to see if anyone else was in the room with her, but she was alone. Talking to herself. Why? she whispered, her voice cracking. Please stop. Dont make me. Her fingers curled tightly around the book before she hurled it against the wall with a frustrated shout. It bounced off and landed on the floor with a dull thud. Grabbing at her hair, she pulled it messily, her face contorting with anguish. I didnt know what her problem wasand I didnt care. The dagger was my goal, not whatever was happening in her mind. No, no, she begged, her voice trembling. Let me be Its dark there! I dont She froze mid-sentence, her hands dropping limply to her sides. Slowly, her mouth twisted into a sly grin, her entire demeanour shifting. Picking the book off the floor, she placed it gently on the table, her movements unnervingly calm now. The change was almost too starkit was like watching two different people inhabit the same body. Footsteps echoed from below. Hearing the trapdoor click open, I dove back under the bed, holding my breath as the ladder creaked again. Im getting too old for this, an older woman muttered, her voice tinged with fatigue. Suzans mother ascended slowly, her greying hair dishevelled and her shoulders hunched. Reaching the top, she shut the trapdoor behind her and stepped forward. Her posture straightened when she saw Suzan step out of the curtained room, book still in hand. The older woman knelt on one knee, her head bowed low. My Queen, she said reverently, her voice trembling with devotion. We can finally move to another city. We have enough gold.Stolen content warning: this content belongs on Royal Road. Report any occurrences. Suzans lips curled into a cruel smile. Not yet, my loyal subject. I want one more victim. Who, my Queen? her mother asked, lifting her gaze. That boy. Axel, Suzan growled, her voice dripping with malice. I want him. In me. My stomach twisted. I had assumed these two were just deranged cannibals, scavengers devouring whatever they could find. But this? This was something far darker, far stranger. Their relationship was nothing I could have anticipated. Queen and loyal subject? This was too much. The older woman nodded solemnly, her expression unwavering. Then you shall have him, my Queen. Shall I go and find him for you? Yes, Suzan snapped, her tone sharp and commanding. Bring him to me. As soon as possible. I swallowed hard, bile rising in my throat. Whatever this was, I was in way over my head. And now, I had a target on my back the last thing I needed. The mother opened the hidden entrance and descended the ladder, her footsteps fading into the distance. Suzan lingered in the doorway, her head tilted slightly, her gaze fixed on the floor. After ensuring she was alone, she began pacing, her steps slow. Then, with a sigh, she entered the room where I was hiding and sat at the edge of the bed. The mattress sagged under her weight, pinning me even tighter against the floor. I froze, one hand clamped over my mouth to muffle my breathing, my chest tightening with the effort to stay silent. She unbuckled her belt, letting it fall carelessly to the ground. The Queen''s dagger rested on it, gleaming faintly in the dim light. It was within arms reachso tantalizingly close. My instincts screamed at me to grab it and bolt, but my rational mind knew better. If I made the wrong move, shed have me in an instant. What the shit! A voice from outside broke the tense silence. Oi! Are you okay? Suzan snapped her head toward the sound, her expression shifting to annoyance. She jumped to her feet, moved to the window, and pried a plank loose, peering out. It had to be the other manthe one Id knocked out and stashed inside the beasts corpse. He must have woken up and discovered his dead friend. With a low grunt, she stormed back to the hidden entrance, yanked it open, and began descending. This was my chance. I could have placed the dagger in my inventory just to be safe, but the thought of Suzan catching me without any weapon to defend myself felt like a death sentence. I crawled out from under the bed, heart pounding in my ears, and snatched the dagger from the ground. Sliding it into my sheath, I crouched by the trapdoor, waiting for her to fully disappear. The moment I was sure it was clear, I leapt down. Pain shot through my leg as I landed hard, my wounded knee buckling beneath me. I bit down on a cry of agony, crawling frantically across the floor before I could force myself back onto my feet. Every step was a struggle, but adrenaline kept me moving. Shit come on, come on. Peeking through the door, I saw Suzan outside. She held the man by the neck, lifting him effortlessly off the ground. His legs kicked wildly, his hands clawing desperately at her face. She only grinned wider, her expression one of sick delight. Then, with a quick, horrifying motion, her fingers clenched, crushing his throat as if it were paper. Blood sprayed from the wound, and the mans lifeless body crumpled to the ground. Oh, fuck, I whispered, barely able to process what Id just seen. My stomach churned, but there was no time to dwell on it. I ducked back inside as she turned, her sharp eyes scanning the surroundings. Her footsteps approached the house, growing louder with each passing second. I darted behind the nearest couch, crouching low and pressing myself against its base. My hands trembled violently, and cold sweat dripped down my face. If she found me, thered be no escape. Suzan entered, her steps echoing ominously as she moved through the room. She checked every corner, like she was looking for something---or someone. My pulse quickened with every sound she made. At one point, her footsteps stopped, and the silence became deafening. I dared to peek out, inching my head around the edge of the couch. My eyes scanned the room. She was gonevanished as if shed evaporated into thin air. Panic gripped me. I turned back, and there she was. Standing right in front of me. Her twisted grin stretched across her face, her eyes alight with malice. Yellow, Axy-Axy, she purred, her voice dripping with mockery. She cocked her head, her expression utterly delighted. You dont know how much Suzan and I missed you. Chapter 48: Better be worth it My eyes widened in terror as I kicked Suzan in the leg, throwing her off balance. Without wasting another second, I bolted for the door, adrenaline pushing me past the pain in my injured leg. Her manic laughter echoed behind me, each step of hers sounding closer than the last. Panicking, I snapped my head back and hurled fireballs in desperation. The first one missed, but the others struck her squarely. Smoke filled the air, and I dared to hope it had workeduntil she emerged, unscathed and faster than before. My stomach sank. I couldnt outrun her, not like this. Ah, shit. Oh, Axy-Axy! Im coming for you! She retaliated with fireballs of her own. Two slammed into my back, searing pain ripping through me. I hit the ground hard, tumbling uncontrollably as I slid down a steep slope. My body twisted and rolled, slamming into tree trunks along the way, the impact jarring me with each hit. Gasping for air, I scrambled to my feet at the bottom of the slope. To my right was the bridgemy only chance to escape. I limped toward it as fast as I could, but Suzan was faster. With an inhuman leap, she landed in front of me, cutting off my escape. Her eyes gleamed with malice as she clapped her hands. From thin air, a sword materialised, floating briefly before she grasped it with a wicked grin. Who are you?! I demanded, stumbling backward. Her voice deepened unnaturally, layered with something dark and otherworldly. Who am I? Im your nightmare, Axy-Axy, she hissed, the twisted grin on her face growing wider. Stay away from me! I shouted, throwing more fireballs. She laughed as my spell hit her. Im weak. I havent fed in a while. I need something I need you. I launched fireballs at her in rapid succession, pouring every ounce of energy I had into the attack. Flames burst around her, dozensno, hundredsstriking her. Finally, she fell to the ground, her body consumed by smoke and heat. I didnt wait to see if it had finished her. I sprinted for the bridge, ignoring the stabbing pain in my leg. My heart pounded as I reached the midpoint, the planks creaking beneath my weight. But she wasnt done. You wont escape me this time! she shrieked. A fireball hurtled toward the bridge, the impact sending it swaying wildly. I lost my footing, stumbling forward. Another blast came, snapping one side of the ropes entirely. The bridge collapsed, leaving me dangling by the remaining line. The planks swung violently, slamming into the dirt wall on the other side. Disoriented, I clung to the planks, my grip slipping. But Suzan wasnt finished. She appeared above me, her sword gleaming in the faint light. She raised it high, ready to strike. Crap, I muttered, and then... I let go. The world spun as I plummeted into the river below, the icy water shocking me into full awareness. The current swept me away instantly, its force dragging me toward jagged branches sticking out like deadly obstacles.Support the author by searching for the original publication of this novel. Shit! I sputtered as a branch struck my face, knocking me under. I fought my way back to the surface, only to be slammed by another. This time, I grabbed hold of it, the rough bark digging into my palms as I gasped for air. The relief was short-lived. The branch snapped, sending me careening downstream again. I tumbled through the chaotic waters, my limbs flailing as I struggled to regain control. My leg slammed into something sharpa rock. Pain shot through me as blood clouded the water. My foot was stuck, wedged tightly beneath the rock. Desperation fueled me as I pushed against it with all my strength. Come on! I shouted, bubbles rising as I screamed underwater. Finally, I freed myself and surfaced, gasping. My hands found another branch, this one sturdier. I clung to it, coughing and trembling, but an ice shard whistled past me, slicing into the wood and forcing me to let go. The current dragged me toward a looming log. Eyes wide, I ducked under the water, letting the force carry me beneath it. When I surfaced again, my surroundings blurred with motion, and then I saw itthe edge of the waterfall. No. No. No! I shouted, clawing at the water, searching for anything to stop me. The roar of the waterfall grew deafening. And then it happened. The current hurled me over the edge, and for a moment, I soared through the air, weightless and helpless. My body tensed as I shut my eyes tightly, bracing for the inevitable impact. This was going to hurt. I hit the water with a deafening splash, the cold biting into my skin. My back slammed against jagged rocks beneath the surface, and I let out a guttural scream as pain coursed through my body. The water wasnt deep, barely reaching above my knees, and I struggled to roll myself upright. Every inch of me felt numb, my limbs unresponsive, and my chest heaved as I fought to catch my breath. Finally, I managed to stand. My legs wobbled as I trudged forward, every step agonising. I reached the shore and collapsed onto the damp sand. Lifting my head, I glanced around. I was near a forest, the trees towering ominously above me. The area was unfamiliar, the shadows swallowing any hint of where I might be. Shit I rasped, my voice barely audible. With trembling hands, I unsheathed the Queens dagger. Relief flooded me as I found it intact. Clutching it tightly, I exhaled a shaky breath and let my exhaustion take over. My vision blurred, and I surrendered to the darkness. TTTTTT?TTTTTT When I opened my eyes, it was night. The sky above me glittered with stars, their light barely piercing the branches of the thick trees. My body throbbed with pain, every wound demanding attention. Old injuries ached alongside the fresh ones, while scratches from the branches earlier stung relentlessly. My face felt caked with dried blood, my vision tinted red from the cuts near my eyes. I groaned, rolling onto my back. The cool night air did little to soothe the fire coursing through my muscles. Reluctantly, I pushed myself up, biting back a grunt as I dusted off my torn clothes. The Queens dagger lay half-buried in the sand beside me. I snatched it up, inspecting it for damage again. It was still intact, its edge gleaming faintly in the dim starlight. But as soon as I stood, dizziness washed over me. My world spun violently, and my legs buckled beneath me. I hit the ground again, my face inches from the sand. My chest heaved as I tried to steady myself. No, no, no, I muttered, my voice hoarse. I cantI dont have time for this. I pushed myself to my knees, ignoring my bodys protests. My arms trembled as I dragged myself upright again. Every muscle screamed at me to stop, but I couldnt afford to. The Queen had demanded her dagger back by tonight, and judging by the position of the stars, it was already late. I have to go, I whispered through gritted teeth. Come on, Ax. Get moving. You can do this. I sheathed the dagger and took a shaky step forward. Pain radiated through my injured leg, but I forced myself to keep going. Turning slowly, I scanned my surroundings, piecing together where the current had taken me. East. I needed to head east, back toward the city. But judging by the dense forest and unfamiliar terrain, it was going to be a long journey. My breath hitched as I took another step, my injured body screaming in defiance. This better be worth it, I muttered under my breath, limping into the night. TTTTTT?TTTTTT Chapter 49: No time =================== NOTIFICATION =================== * Quest Completed: Queens dagger -------------------------------- + XP Gained: 25 + Gold Earned: 2 -------------------------------- | Current XP: 30 / 100 -------------------------------- | Progress: ?????????? ========================= Wiping the sweat off my brows, I sank onto a nearby rock and shut my eyes. How long had I been walking? An hour? Three? My legs screamed in protest, my wounds burned with every step, every gust of wind, every cold raindrop. The last few days had been nothing short of hell. Trouble seemed to find me at every turn, something I always avoided in my old life. Back then, I kept my head down. But this world? It demanded more. It forced me to adapt, to face challenges head-on. The city lights flickered in the distance, faint but unmistakable. Maybe ten minutes away, or twenty. Yet I was spent. One more step, and I knew Id hit the ground. I needed to rest. Just a momenta long, long moment. My eyelids grew heavy, sleep beckoning me like an old friend. For someone like me, who struggled to sleep most nights, it shouldve been a relief. But now wasnt the time. Come on... youre so close. I pushed myself up, took a deep breath, and forced my legs to move. Every step was agony. My left leg dragged behind me, a dead weight, while blood dripped steadily into my eyes. I had to stop every few minutes to wipe my face, the crimson streaks blurring my vision and stinging like fire. Then it happenedI stumbled. My legs gave out, and I nearly collapsed face-first. Grasping blindly, my hand caught a low-hanging branch, and I leaned heavily against a nearby tree. Agh, I groaned, clutching my throbbing leg. It hurts so much. Damn it. My body refused to cooperate any longer, and I slid down the trunk, slumping against it. My head rested against the bark as I struggled to breathe, the dizziness setting in. Blood from the cuts on my face smeared over my skin, but I didnt have the energy to wipe it away. Rain poured steadily, the cold seeping into my bones, and the wind howled through the trees. It wouldve been easy to just give upto let the exhaustion take over and wait for the inevitable. I shut my eyes, letting the darkness claim me for what felt like seconds. Then, a loud crack of thunder shattered the stillness. Lightning struck a nearby tree, the flash lighting up the forest like day. My body jolted, my heart racing. Just a little more, I muttered, spitting blood onto the ground as I forced myself to stand. My legs trembled beneath me, but I pushed forward. A little more. Come on. A translucent box materialised in my vision: Level 2: Axel HP: [??????????] 11/110 (!) Mana: [??????????] -1/100 Stamina: [??????????] 08/120 (!)Stolen story; please report. Options: [Inv | Skills | Quests] I swiped it away with a shaky hand, dismissing it from view. My body was screaming in protestmy injured leg from earlier, my back still aching from the fall. Every inch of me hurt. The terrain shifted to a slight incline, and I dug into my pocket for my phone. Miraculously, its water resistance had held up. The flashlight clicked on, illuminating the path ahead. Familiar shapes emerged in the dim light: distinctive trees, a stretch of forest I remembered. Relief mixed with desperation. I had to be close. Okay, I murmured, my voice weak. Im almost there. Just keep moving. Each step was an act of will. After a minute, I paused to catch my breath and leaned my forehead against a tree trunk. Recognition sparked. This was the spot where Id found the lost sheep before. A sliver of hope flickered inside me. You can do this, I whispered. Pushing off the tree, I continued forward. My phones flashlight dimmed and then shut off, overheating from the strain. I didnt stop. I couldnt stop. Yes yes I leaned heavily against a boulder, leaving smudged, bloody fingerprints on its surface as I pushed myself away. Between the dense branches, the city lights glimmered like distant beacons. Lifting my leg, I stepped over a fallen log and trudged forward. Parting the tall grasses ahead, I finally emerged onto the outskirts of Kinowa. To my right was the familiar tavern with the school uniform still hanging by its wall, and straight ahead, the city gates loomed. I was herefinally. All that remained was delivering the Queens dagger and collapsing into a bed. As I limped closer to the gates, the lone guard stationed there stepped forward, raising his hand sharply to stop me. Who are you? His voice was firm. You cant enter the city. Breathing heavily, I squinted at him. I cant? Why not? Curfew. He stood tall, unyielding. No one goes in or out after dark. Turn around. I staggered closer, clutching my side. I have to. Ive got the Queens deliveryher dagger. He crossed his arms, unimpressed. Then youre late. Try again in the morning. There is no morning for me, I said flatly, my voice hollow with exhaustion. If I dont deliver this tonight, shell have me hanged. The guard chuckled, shaking his head. Well then, Ill make sure to put flowers on your grave, boy. Now scram. And what in the hells happened to you? You look like death warmed over. A second guard stepped out of the shadows, his voice cutting through the exchange. Let him through. The first guard turned, confused. Are you sure, sir? Yes, the other replied, his armor gleaming with golden accents. The Queens business takes precedence. Ill write him a pass. The first guard hesitated but stepped aside, muttering something under his breath. I nodded weakly and followed the second man as he motioned for me to come along. We veered left, heading into a nearby building marked with a sign of a sword and shield. He opened the door but shut it behind him before I could enter. I leaned against the wall outside, muttering, At least Im inside A moment later, he returned, holding a small parchment with an official seal. He handed it to me, his expression stern but not unkind. Here, he said. This states youre out on the Queens business. Curfew rules wont apply to you tonight. I unfolded the parchment and scanned the handwriting: By order of the Crown, the bearer of this pass, engaged in service to Her Majesty, is exempt from the curfew for the duration of this night. No interruptions to their task will be tolerated. The signature at the bottom read: Captain Eliard Veras. The guard crossed his arms. Just make sure you put in a good word for Giarda, yeah? Giarda? I asked, folding the pass carefully. He smiled faintly. She works at The Diamond Eyes. My girlfriend. Ah, I replied. I didnt catch her name before. Thanks for the help, Captain. He waved it off. No problem. But kid, you should stop by a vailhouse before heading to the Queens Palace. You look like youre about to drop. No time, I said, already limping away. Thanks again. Have a good night. He called after me, his voice trailing off. Yeah you too, kid. TTTTTT?TTTTTT Chapter 50: Defiance Level 2: Axel HP: [??????????] 07/110 (!) Mana: [??????????] -1/100 Stamina: [??????????] 05/120 (!) Options: [Inv | Skills | Quests] Every street brought a new confrontation, another guard halting me with a raised hand. Each time, I fumbled for the pass, showing it to them without a word. Theyd glance at it, nod, and wave me through. My pace never quickenedI didnt have the strength. I just hoped the Queen would take pity on me. Dying over a dagger in a world I didnt belong to felt unbearably cruel. Finally, I reached the gates of the Queens Palace. The massive iron barriers loomed over me, flanked by two guards who immediately stepped forward. Halt! barked the first, gripping his spear. Where do you think youre going, boy? Are you out of your Pass, I rasped, holding out the document. Just let me through. The guard snatched the paper, squinting as he examined it. After a pause, he grunted. Fine. But the Queen has guests right now. Youll wait inside. Uh-huh The second guard eyed me, his lip curling. Rowes hair, kid, what in the hells happened to you? You look like you were dragged through a battlefield. Long story, I muttered, shuffling past them without another glance. The garden seemed endless as I trudged toward the palace doors. By the time I reached them, my head was spinning, my vision swimming in and out. Leaning against the cold stone wall, I braced myself, sucking in air to stave off the creeping darkness. Youre almost there, I whispered to myself. Just a little more. Pushing off the wall, I staggered forward, my hand trailing along for support. The spiral staircase ahead stood like a cruel challenge. One step at a time, I climbed, pausing every few steps to catch my breath. Agh damn it my leg The pain was blinding, but I kept going. At the top, the grand golden doors came into view, guarded by two imposing sentries. Both of them straightened as I approached, their gazes hard. They exchanged a look before one of them barked, Halt. Whats your business here? I didnt even answer. Wordlessly, I held out the pass, too exhausted to argue. The guard took it, his eyes scanning the text. Hmph. The Queen has guests. Youll need to wait Shes expecting me, I cut in, my voice hoarse. You didnt hear me, boy? the guard growled. Shes not to be Its my neck on the line, I murmured, gripping the door handle and pushing it open. The guards lunged, trying to stop me, but I slipped through their grasp. Whatever punishment waited, it couldnt be worse than this nightmare. Inside, the Queen sat at a grand square table, surrounded by guests. She was at the head, regal and composed. To her left sat a woman in royal attire that wouldve made designers in my world weep with envy. Across from her, a girl, maybe a year or two older than me, tore into a plate of chicken with gusto. Beside her was a small boy sipping soup, while at the other end of the table sat a burly, scarred man whose glare could probably kill a weaker person. The room fell silent as all eyes turned to me. My ragged form, dragging footsteps, and bloodied appearance drew their scrutiny. I could hear the guards hissing behind me, demanding I stop, but I ignored them, limping forward with a single purpose.Ensure your favorite authors get the support they deserve. Read this novel on the original website. Your Highness, I croaked, pulling the dagger from its sheath. I bring your dagger. The Queen rose from her seat, her eyes narrowing slightly as she approached. Axel, she said, her tone sharp but controlled. Youre late. You shouldve been here two hours ago. My head dipped low. I Im sorry, Your Highness. I held the dagger out, my knees trembling. As I tried to lower myself to kneel, my vision blurred, and the strength in my legs gave out. The dagger slipped from my grasp, clattering to the floor. Gasps echoed through the room. The Queens eyes hardened at first, as if suspecting defiance, but her expression softened when she realized what was happening. My body tipped backward, the world tilting as I lost control. She stepped forward, catching me by the arm and pulling me upright. My head slumped forward, landing against her chest. The scent of strawberries filled my nose as my legs completely gave out. Get off the Queen! one of the guards barked, yanking me back and shoving me to my knees. Pain flared up my injured leg, staring at the blood that dripped from my face, pooling beneath me. Ugh Are you insane? the guard shouted. You dare touch her like that? I didnt mean to I rasped, coughing as I struggled to stay upright. The Queen bent down, retrieving the dagger from the floor. Her fingers brushed the hilt, and she studied it carefully before nodding in approval. Then, without a word, her gaze shifted back to mecalm, calculating, and unreadable. After glancing at me, the Queen turned her sharp gaze toward the guard standing behind me. Heal him. Yes, maam, the guard replied with a stiff nod, stepping closer to me. Her tone grew colder as she continued. Then throw him into the dungeon. Let him out in the morning. He interrupted our meal. Understood, maam, the guard said. The man grabbed my arm and hauled me up, barely giving me a chance to steady myself. My left leg dragged behind, each step a fresh reminder of the pain radiating through my battered body. Relief washed over menot entirely, but enough. She hadnt ordered my execution. The dungeon wasnt ideal, but at least Id live to see another day. The heavy doors closed behind us, sealing off the opulent hall. I exhaled, wiping some of the blood from my face. Move, the guard barked, shoving me forward. Hmm. When I say the Queen isnt to be disturbed He shoved me again, his tone growing sharper. The force sent me stumbling, and I hit the ground hard. I mean she isnt to be disturbed, boy! he snarled. I groaned, propping myself up on one arm. Yeah... Sorry. Not waiting for me to rise on my own, the guard yanked me upright and all but dragged me down the grand staircase. My pace was too slow for his liking, my injuries hindering every step. Youre pathetic, he muttered. Without warning, he shoved me hard from behind. I lost my footing and tumbled down the spiral staircase, my body bouncing against the cold stone. My head struck the floor with a sickening thud, pain exploding through my skull. Blood trickled down my temple as my left leg burned in agony. I tried to push myself up, only to collapse under my own weight. The guard sighed irritably, grabbed me by the cape, and dragged me across the hall. My battered body scraped against the floor as he hauled me toward another flight of stairs. Fucking idiot, he spat, his voice dripping with contempt. At the next set of stairs, he didnt bother to help me down. Instead, he threw me forward. I hit the steps awkwardly, tumbling once again. My hands scrambled to grip the railing, finally catching hold, but a swift kick to my back dislodged me, sending me crashing the rest of the way down. The air was colder on this level, the stone walls damp and unforgiving. When the guard caught up, he yanked me by my cape once more, dragging me toward a heavy wooden door. He opened it with one hand and shoved me inside. Get down there yourself. No healing for you, damned idiot. he sneered, slamming the door shut behind me. The small, dimly lit square room reeked of mildew. The only light came from two flickering lanterns on the walls. Ahead of me was a narrow staircase descending into complete darkness. Groaning, I reached into my pocket and pulled out my phone. The flashlight barely penetrated the inky blackness, but it was better than nothing. I tried to push myself up again, leaning heavily against one of the lanterns for support. My body screamed in protest, but somehow, I managed to stand. Each step down was agony, but I forced myself onward. And I thought---I thought my boss was a bad person, I muttered, the faint echo of my voice swallowed by the oppressive darkness. Chapter 51: Worth a shot At the bottom of the stairs, I found myself in a dim, cold dungeon. To my left was a table, where a guard sat lazily in his chair, a bored expression on his face. Just a few metres from the table was a sturdy wooden door, locked tight with iron bars. In the corner, four open chests revealed their contentsclothes, swords, and a handful of personal trinkets like rings and necklaces, probably confiscated from other prisoners. I limped toward the table, clutching my injured shoulder, and gave the guard a weak nod. No matter how miserable this place looked, I was just relieved the day was finally over. Sleepeven in a dungeonwas all I wanted. Im the Queen sent me here, I managed to say, my voice hoarse. The guard raised an eyebrow. No one with you? None of the others escorted you down? A guard did, I said, leaning heavily on the table. Told me to get here myself. He muttered something under his breath and motioned toward the table. Leave your belt there. Your gauntlet and armour, too. I winced. Will I at least get healing? No. Biting back a groan, I fumbled with the straps of my shoulder armour, which also held my cape. My trembling fingers struggled to unbuckle it, but eventually, I managed to lay it down alongside my gauntlet, belt, and phone. The guard stood and gave me a rough pat-down, his hands prodding my bruised body to ensure I wasnt hiding anything. Satisfied, he grabbed a heavy ring of keys from his pocket and turned to unlock the door. Move, he said, jerking his head toward the open doorway. I stepped inside, the clang of the door behind me sending a shiver down my spine. The corridor was lined with cages, each one filled with prisoners. Some were sleeping, others were murmuring to themselves, their words incoherent. The cages were barejust piles of hay for bedding, a bucket for waste, and a small lantern casting weak light. Each cell had a tiny window high on the wall, framing the night sky and its scattered stars. The guard unlocked an empty cage, shoved me inside, and slammed the door shut. Without a word, he turned and left, the sound of his retreating footsteps echoing down the hall. Great I let out a heavy sigh and dropped to the cold, unforgiving floor. The hay pile was only a few feet away, but I didnt have the strength to crawl to it. My body screamed for rest, so I shut my eyes and tried to ignore the stabbing pain from my wounds. The chill began to seep into my bones. Shivering, I rolled over and forced myself toward the haystack. It wasnt much, but it was better than lying on stone. Without a blanket, the cold gnawed at me, and I hugged myself in a futile attempt to stay warm. Damn so cold, I muttered through chattering teeth. After a while, I managed to push myself up and reach for the bars on the small window. Peering outside, I saw the rain still falling, droplets leaking through and dampening the hay beneath the window. Sighing, I sank back onto the makeshift bed, shutting my eyes again. I tried to convince myself things couldve been worse, but my mind was a mess. I was exhausted, broken, and at my wits end. This world was a nightmare, and I had to find a way to escape it. Ill find a way. I whispered to myself with a dull voice. I will. The sound of footsteps echoed through the hall, snapping me out of my thoughts. I opened my eyes to see the same guard from earlier approaching. He carried a plate of food, the contents as uninspiring as the rest of this placebland rice and a piece of bread. He crouched and shoved the plate under the bars with his boot before walking off without a word.If you find this story on Amazon, be aware that it has been stolen. Please report the infringement. I groaned as I sat up, dragging myself over to the plate. Picking up the wooden spoon, I began eating. The food tasted as dull as it looked, but thanks to my mother, that wasnt a problem for me. Ugh at least itll keep me alive, I muttered between bites. The cold remained, the pain lingered, and the dungeons oppressive silence weighed on me. But at least Id survived another day. For now, that was enough. Finishing my meal, I took a deep breath. This was going to be one long, miserable night. TTTTTT?TTTTTT A loud thud jolted me awake. My heart jumped as I sat up, disoriented. The guard stood outside my cage, unlocking it with a tired expression. I shook my head to clear the grogginess and staggered to my feet. My body felt slightly better after the rest, but my wounds still achedespecially my leg, which forced me to limp. I needed a vailhouse for healing, but two gold coins that was a problem. The guard swung the door open, gesturing impatiently for me to move. Out. I hobbled through the doorway, watching as he locked the cage behind me. Without a word, he led me back to the room where Id dropped my belongings. Take your stuff, he said, collapsing into his chair with a grunt. These are yours. Thanks, I muttered, picking up my armour, gauntlet, and phone. The metallic scent of dried blood clung to me like a second skin. I was filthy, wounded, and desperate for a bath. Mm. Now go. The Queen ordered me to be healed, I said, testing my luck. Could I receive some help before I go? The guard snorted, not even looking up. And she ordered me to have a mansion in the capital. Scram, kid. Im not lying. And I do not care one bit. Fine fine. Okay. He glanced at me lazily as I strapped on my armour. And dont let me see your face down here again. Biting back a retort, I climbed the stairs slowly, my body hurting like hell. My thoughts drifted to my next steps. First, a vailhouse for healing. Then, Redwood Academy. I needed information about that ominous eye Id seen in my worldthe one that had brought me to this nightmare. If I could uncover its secrets, I might find a way home. At the top of the stairs, I tried the door, but it was locked. I heard keys jingling, followed by the scrape of a hatch opening. Two sharp eyes peered through. Hey, I said. Im supposed to be released. Uh-uh. Name? Axel. The hatch shut with a clunk, followed by the sound of the door unlocking. The guard stepped aside, smirking. Oh, youre that boy. The one who interrupted the Queens dinner. You might want to avoid coming back here for a while. Youre probably not her favourite person right now. Noted, I replied, stepping outside. Hey, could you help me get some healing? The Queen ordered it, but the guard who brought me here refused. The guard shrugged, leaning against the wall. No can do. Best bets a vailhouse. Theyll patch you up. Hmm. Okay. I grunted, deciding to move on. Can I ask something? He rolled his eyes. One question. Make it quick. Do you know anything about an eye in the sky? He frowned. What now? Or translucent boxes? The guard stared at me like Id sprouted another arm. Kid, did you hit your head down there? Get outta here with your weird questions. It was worth a shot, I muttered as I walked away. Level 2: Axel HP: [?????????] 15/110 Mana: [??????????] -1/100 Stamina: [????????] 30/120 Options: [Inv | Skills | Quests] The translucent box flickered into view as I thought about it, the exclamation marks next to my health and stamina now gone. My stats still looked rough, but they were better than yesterday. Five hours of sleep hadnt fully restored me, but it would have to do. I climbed the final set of stairs and pushed open the door to the outside world. The sun hadnt risen yet, and the early morning air was colder than Id expected. A handful of people moved through the streets, likely heading to their jobs. The guards at their posts looked half-asleep, with one audibly snoring in the distance. Okay, I muttered to myself, rubbing my shoulder. Vailhouse first, then the academy And with that, I limped off into the waking city. Chapter 52: Dirty sinner Sitting on a nearby bench, I withdrew all my gold from my inventory and began counting. The coins felt heavier than they should, considering how little there wasfive gold and five silver. Two were reserved for the vailhouse, another two for the academy dorm. That left me with scraps. I sighed and leaned back, letting my gaze drift to the sky. The sun was slowly rising, and the air was warming despite the light drizzle still falling. I stayed there for a few more minutes before forcing myself up. Reaching into my back pocket, I pulled out my map only to find it soggy and illegible. "Great," I muttered, balling it up and stuffing it back into my pocket. "Now I need to pay for a new map too." As soon as I said map, the translucent interface appeared, this time displaying an incredibly detailed map of the area. My location was marked with a small arrow, and the vailhouse was clearly indicated nearby. A glowing yellow line stretched from my location to the vailhouse, like a GPS directing me to my destination. "Right" I muttered, staring at the translucent box. "I forgot about this weird thing." The map disappeared, but faint yellow glows appeared on the ground, mimicking the path from the map. Relieved that I didnt need to buy a replacement, I started following the glowing markers, dragging my injured leg behind me as I limped. The Queens order for free healing still echoed bitterly in my mind. Yet here I was, about to pay out of my own pocket. I couldnt believe Id been so reckless last night, barging into her room after the guard explicitly told me not to disturb her. It was a stupid move, plain and simple. Have you heard about the tournament? A mans voice caught my attention as I passed a nearby stall. Its happening in Redwood, another replied, setting up goods. Yeah, the first said, grinning. Always fun to watch. Those students know what theyre doing. My girls fighting this year. No way! Really? Yup. Hope she wins. Im betting on her. You gambler, the other teased. Dirty sinner. Says the guy who drinks like a fish. Fair enough. Their banter faded behind me as I rounded a corner. The vailhouse was now just a street away. I could feel the dried blood caked on my face and the overwhelming stench of sweat, grime, and that creatures---the one I crawled inside to hide---blood still clinging to my clothes. People visibly recoiled as I passed, covering their noses or stepping aside, murmuring loudly enough for me to hear. Whats his problem? He shouldnt be here. This districts too elite for someone like him. Ugh, he stinks. Bet he just discovered fire. Soups probably too advanced for him. Hmm," I muttered under my breath, ignoring them. Finally, I arrived at the vailhouse. The building loomed over me, its exterior in pristine condition, giving a rich aura of wealth. The building was four stories tall, its windows as clean as a whistle, and the walls appeared to be freshly painted or maintained every month or so. Two women standing near the entrance with black robes spotted me immediately and hurried over.Unauthorized usage: this tale is on Amazon without the author''s consent. Report any sightings. Gods above, one said, her eyes wide. What happened to you? Long story, I replied, voice flat. Can I get healing? The second woman folded her arms, giving me a skeptical look. You dont look like someone who can pay two gold coins. I fished two coins from my pocket and held them up. I lived in a shitty country with shitty laws. Im used to not getting free healthcare. She glanced at the coins and then at me, as if still doubting my ability to pay. Finally, she sighed and took the gold. All right, she said, gesturing for me to follow. Come with us. Hmm. I followed the women into the vailhouse, their soft steps echoing faintly as they led me to a small room on the first floor. One of them helped me sit on the edge of the bed, while the other closed the door and joined us. They began examining my injuries, their quiet words muffled as I struggled to focus. My thoughts drifted elsewhere, tangled in everything Id been through. The room was simple: a bed in the centre, a wardrobe and chair to the left, and a window to the right. Unlike the last vailhouse, this one had couches lining one wall with small tables in front of them. Their voices faded entirely when a warm glow washed over me, snapping me back to reality. Both women extended their hands, green light radiating from their palms as a soothing warmth enveloped my body. My muscles relaxed, and for the first time in days, I felt at peace. One of them tilted my head to the side, her fingers gently prodding at my shoulder. She frowned and motioned to the other healer. The stitches on your shoulder have opened up, she said. We need to fix that before it gets worse. Not again I muttered, already bracing for the pain. The healer walked over to the wardrobe in the corner and retrieved a small box. Turning her back to me, she prepared a needle and thread before returning. I shut my eyes and clenched my fists as the needle pierced my skin. She worked quickly, and the sharp pain faded just as fast as it came. All done, she said, putting the needle away, her eyes glowing green. Lets focus on your leg now. Youve been through hells, the other healer said, her green-lit hands hovering over my injuries. You should count yourself lucky to still be breathing. Yeah, I muttered. I should. The warmth of their magic eased the lingering ache in my body, though my thoughts still weighed heavy. The past few days had been overwhelmingmonsters, strange magic, elves, and cannibals. Everything felt foreign and dangerous. I missed the predictability of my old life, where nothing changed, and I knew what each day would bring. After about five minutes, the healing stopped. One of the women wiped her forehead, visibly drained, while the other sank into a chair. You one of them said, her voice tired but curious. What in the hells happened to you? I was attacked, I replied, keeping the details vague. Will I be okay? Youre healed, the other woman assured me. But the pain will linger for a few days. Thanks. You shouldnt head to Redwood today, the first healer advised. You need to rest. I cant, I said, shaking my head. I have too much to do. Your choice. After a pause, I decided to ask, Do either of you know anything about an eye in the sky? An eye in the sky? the first one repeated, puzzled. Is that the monster that attacked you? Ive never heard of anything like it. Never mind, I muttered, brushing off the question. They left the room after finishing, leaving me alone. I stood up and tested my left leg, carefully placing my weight on it. The pain was still there, but it was bearablemuch better than before. Good, I muttered. At least I can walk again. Now I need a bath. Level 2: Axel HP: [?] 96/110 Mana: [????????] -1/100 Stamina: [????] 75/120 Options: [Inv | Skills | Quests] With my stats displayed before me, I felt a rare moment of relief. My health was nearly full, and my stamina had recovered significantly. Leaning on the windowsill, I stared outside. The faint drizzle continued, but the sun was beginning to rise, illuminating the city in a muted glow. Finally, I muttered, exhaling deeply. A little break. TTTTTT?TTTTTT Chapter 53: Gluttonous queen I stepped through Redwood''s gates, the school uniform fitting snugly against my form. The fabric was high-quality, but the cravat felt too tight around my neckit was Phobe who tied it for me, after I admitted I didnt know how. Ada used to do it for me back in my worldand before her, my mom. People stared as I walked by, their glances lingering on the scars on my face. Though the nurses assured me they would heal without leaving marks, they also warned me that complete healing would cost two more gold coins. I had refused, knowing I needed those coins for the dorm room at Redwood Academy. Besides, the scars werent too severe. The deeper injuriesthe claw marks on my back and the stab wound on my shoulderwould stay as permanent reminders, no matter how much healing magic was used. Feeling like I was being watched, I looked up at the rooftop. Hmm. "Axel," a familiar voice called out behind me as I made my way toward the main building. I turned to see Liam standing near a fountain, his posture confident and serious. "Oh Liam, right?" "Yes," he said, walking toward me. His sharp eyes scanned my face. "What happened to you?" "Fell," I replied curtly, knowing the excuse was flimsy. "Not very convincing, but I wont pry," he said, adjusting his glasses. "The headmaster wasnt pleased you missed your first day yesterday." "Yeah, I had some personal stuff come up," I said, trying to keep my tone neutral. "I couldnt make it. Sorry." "Is that why your face looks like that and your legs still limping?" "I thought you said you wouldnt pry." "Touch," he said with a serious voice. "But as head of the student council, Im responsible for every student here. The headmaster takes this place seriously, and so do I." "I get it, and Im sorry," I said, keeping my voice steady. "It wont happen again. I know Im at fault, and, like I said, Ill make sure it doesnt happen in the future." He paused, studying me for a moment before crossing his arms. "Youre one of those people, arent you?" he said, his tone slightly colder. "The kind who tells others what they want to hear. Plays weak and unassuming so you wouldn''t come across as a threat." "Thats a strange assumption," I said. "Im nothing like that. Except, I was. When I was younger, Id found recordings of my fathers police interrogations stashed on his work laptop. They fascinated methe way he pushed suspects to the edge without aggression, using the Reid technique like an art form. He could break down even the hardest criminals with a calm demeanour and a few precise words. He knew exactly what to say, and what not to say every time. He could manipulate a stubborn criminal into confessing their crimes like it was nothing.If you come across this story on Amazon, it''s taken without permission from the author. Report it. Those recordings became my secret obsession. Without friends, they were my only entertainment. And over time, I started mimicking what I saw. I would create imaginery scenarios where I was trying to get a criminal to confess something he did, or make a gang member confess where he hid the drugs---safe to say that I was a stupid kid back then But then my world collapsed. My father abandoned us, my sister died, and my mother turned to drugs. Everything Id learned went out the window as I sank into the citys unspoken rulestrust no one, show nothing, survive at all costs. The citys numbness stuck to my face as I lost every crumble of hope I had. "Hey," I said, trying to steer the conversation into safer waters. "Is the library open at this hour?" "Yeah," Liam replied, glancing at the clock tower. "The first lesson starts in twenty minutes. Why do you ask?" "Just curious. I like reading." "Mm. Right. "Since we''re on the topic of books," I continued cautiously, "do you know of a book with blank pages? Its cover was kind of... squishy." Liam''s expression shifted slightly. "You mean Orlaath, the Gluttonous Queen of Endless Desire?" "Endless des---huh? What?" "She has a book like that," Liam said, adjusting his glasses as he spoke. "Each page is blank, but it holds a tally of how many people shes controlledhow many bodies shes taken over throughout the centuries. Each page traps a human soul. Dead or alive, they''re imprisoned within." "The... wait, Orlaath of Gluttony?" I asked, frowning. "Who is that?" "Orlaath, the Gluttonous Queen of Endless Desire," Liam corrected, his tone sharp. "She came from Veldyrn, the portal connecting our world to the devils'' domain." "Theyre... devils? Real devils? "Yes," Liam replied, his voice dropping slightly. "No one taught you this?" "No," I admitted. "So... Suzan is being controlled? Hmm." "Suzan?" "Uh, how does she control someones body?" I asked quickly, trying to change the subject. "A pact has to be made," Liam explained, his voice serious. "I dont know the exact details, and you shouldnt, either. This is forbidden knowledge." His eyes narrowed. "Why are you so curious about her all of a sudden?" "I overheard someone talking about it," I lied, keeping my tone casual. "Anyway, thanks for the help." "No problem," he said, though his gaze lingered on me for a moment. "Are you going to be staying in the dorms?" "Yeah," I said. "Its two gold and five silver coins. You know that, right? "Two and five?" I repeated, my tone dull. "I thought it was just two." "It was never two gold," Liam said, his tone firm. "Who told you that?" "Mortan, the blacksmith," I replied. "Mortan... ah, Mortan. Aidens father," Liam said, nodding. "It had to be two gold in his fathers time. Things have changed drastically since then, as you can imagine." "Hmm okay." I muttered, realising Id be completely broke if I paid. But staying at a tavern long-term would drain my pocket faster. "Now, Ill head to the library, if youll excuse me." "Why are you so interested in the library?" Liam asked, his sharp gaze probing. I couldnt tell him the truththat Id been yanked into this world by a bizarre cosmic eye, and I was desperately trying to figure out how to escape back to my own. So, as always, I fell back on a lie. If the city hadnt numbed me so much, I mightve thrown in a sad face or some other act. Instead, I kept it simple. "Like I said, I just want to try some new books. The village I grew up in didnt have much to offer." Liam studied me for a moment before fixing his glasses. "Alright. But keep in mind, the first class starts in twenty minutes. Your classroom is on the first floorlook for a door labelled with a 1F." "Thank you," I said. "Ill be going, then." "Okay," Liam replied, his sharp gaze still fixed on me as though trying to spot a crack in my story. "See you soon, Axel." "Yeah, see you, student council." "Just Liam," he corrected. "Alright," I said, adjusting my tone. "See you, Liam." Chapter 54: The lesson鈥檚 starting With a nod, I headed into the building, pushing open its heavy double doors. The inside was livelystudents lounged on benches, some deep in conversation while others dozed off. Most of the activity centered around a large tree in the middle of the hall, with groups sitting on tables beneath its sprawling branches. A few teachers wandered the area, their watchful eyes ensuring order. Back in my world, I wouldve slipped through unnoticed, blending in as if I didnt exist. But here, I felt exposed. Peoples gazes lingered on my face, tracing the scars that hadnt fully healed, and on the slight limp in my left leg. Attention like this made my stomach twist. I kept my head down, focusing on the hallway ahead. My goal was clear: get to the room where Id been tested. If I couldnt find anything in the books about the strange eye, I had no backup plan. A familiar figure caught my eye as I passeda girl with red skin, dark wings, and sharp horns. A noxivera. She sat at one of the tables, her presence impossible to miss. I tried to ignore her and move on, not wanting to waste time. What happened to you? Her voice cut through the hum of conversation. And where are you rushing off to? I stopped and turned halfway toward her. In a rush. Sorry. Do you even remember my name? I paused, hesitating. No. Sorry. Mox, she said flatly, crossing her arms. Where are you going? Getting some air, I lied, hoping it would end the conversation. Goodbye. She sighed, leaning back in her chair. Hold on. I need to talk to you. Trust me, Im not thrilled about it either. I glanced at her, my shoulders tightening. Im listening. Thanks for finding those dogs, she said, her tone softer than I expected. The stray I was feeding? I felt awful when she disappeared. I had no idea that Suzan woman would do something like that. I sighed, stepping closer. How did you know it was me? Phobe mentioned it, she said with a shrug. I eat at her place sometimes. Shes a good friend of my motheralways gives me a discount. Right. I nodded stiffly. No problem. Thats it. Just wanted to thank you. You can go now. Hmm. Will do. I gave a curt nod. Goodbye. Hey, actually, one more thing--- She said. Did you see someone on the rooftop today? Uh no? Yeah thats what I thought. Right. Mustve seen a bird or something. Anyways, see ya. As I walked away, I made a mental note: rescuing those dogs shouldve stayed hidden. Attention from strangers, no matter how well-meaning, was the last thing I wanted. I''d have to talk to Phobe about it. After a few minutes of walking, I realised Id forgotten where I was supposed to go. The building''s grandeur only added to my disorientationfountains inside the hall, elaborate statues lining the walls, and the massive tree made everything feel luxurious yet unfamiliar. I longed for the dull, featureless halls of my old school. Hmm was itoh yeah. That way. Recalling the path, I moved toward a door and stepped into the back garden. Rain from yesterday had left the benches soaked, and students who sat on them used clothes to keep dry while chatting with their friends.Stolen content warning: this tale belongs on Royal Road. Report any occurrences elsewhere. Crossing a small bridge that led to another building, I stepped inside and followed the corridor. Turning left, I came to an inner bridge with the endless forest stretching out on both sides. The sight reassured me I was heading the right way. At the end of the bridge, I opened a door and entered the room where Id been tested. Inside, it was dark, with only the dim torches on the walls providing light, just as I remembered. The bookshelves lining the walls were swallowed by shadows, the faint glow unable to reach them. Good, I muttered under my breath. Now lets see. A woman, likely a teacher, stood by the bookshelves, skimming through their contents. She glanced up, her sharp gaze landing on me. Who are you? Axel, maam, I replied, standing straighter. The library is open, right? This room isnt a library anymore, she said, setting a book aside. Its now used for testing. The library is upstairs on the second floor. Oh sorry. I didnt know that. What kind of book are you looking for? she asked, tilting her head slightly. Maybe we have it here. My chest tightened with hope. Its about an eye that appears in the sky. A very disgusting one. Her eyes narrowed as she thought for a moment. Oh, yes. That. Theres a book mentioning it. Really? I leaned forward. Do you know the title? Or who wrote it? I dont recall the author but the books name is Void 101. Its fairly common. Thank you, I said, with a dull voice. Ill go check it out. Not so fast, young man. She stepped forward, blocking my path. The first lesson is about to start. You should head to your classroom. I hesitated, then nodded. I, uh right, maam. Have a good day. Thanks for the help. TTTTTT?TTTTTT I stood in front of the door labelled "1-F," staring at it. Memories of my first day in high school crept innothing special, no excitement. Id just walked in, claimed an empty seat, and quietly waited while everyone else chatted. Ada wasnt in my class back then; she was in Class D. James, on the other hand, ended up sitting next to me because hed been late. The first thing he said was, Hey, Im James. Did you see how Merona stock dropped yesterday? Wild, huh? Snapping back to the present, I muttered under my breath, Im temporary here. No need to overthink this. But deep down, my chest felt tight with unease. It wasnt about fitting inthat was never an issue. It was the fact that I wasnt in my world, a place where I understood the rules. Here, everything felt unstable, unpredictable, and I hated it. With a sigh, I pushed open the door and stepped inside. The classroom was unremarkablelined desks, students either chatting or resting their heads. Two open windows let a light breeze in, rustling old curtains. The teachers desk sat on a slightly raised platform, with a chalkboard behind it. I caught a few stares but ignored them, choosing an empty desk at the very front, right in front of the teachers table. There were around ten desks, half of them empty. Leaning back in my seat, I let out a soft grunt. Better than my high school, I muttered to myself. With five minutes until class started, I reached into my pocket, pulled out my phone, and mindlessly opened the calculator app. Closed it. Opened it again. My shoulders tightened under the weight of all the eyes still on me. This wasnt something I was used toI was supposed to blend into the background, not stand out. Footsteps approached, and I slumped forward, resting my head on the desk. Maybe if I pretended to sleep, theyd leave me alone. Hey, a voice said, stopping beside me. Its Axel, right? I raised my head and turned slightly. Standing there was Jane, the one whod stitched my wound back at the cabin. I still owed her a proper thanks. Yes, I replied, sitting up straighter. I, uh, thank you for helping me back then. You really saved my life. Her lips curved into a small smile. No need. Anyone wouldve done the same. ''Not me,'' I thought but nodded instead. Yeah, of course. Her gaze swept over the room before she leaned against the teachers desk, crossing her arms. So Class F, huh? Tough luck. I exhaled sharply. Yeah. My mana pool was so low, they couldnt even measure it. She tilted her head, a flicker of pity in her eyes. Thats rough. What about affinity? None, I said flatly. Not even a trace. She winced. Oof. Well, I thought I had the worst scores, but you mightve just beaten me. Right? I mumbled. The sound of the door opening cut through our conversation. Alright, everyone, the teacher called, stepping in with a commanding voice. Take your seats. The lessons starting. Chapter 55: The practice area Jane straightened, giving me a brief nod before heading to her seat. I leaned back in mine, my eyes blankly fixed on the teacher as he scraped his chair back and took a seat. He appeared to be in his mid-thirties, with a neatly trimmed beardmostly brown except for the streak of grey in his moustache. His long hair bore a single streak of white along the side, giving him a distinguished appearance. Broad-shouldered with a triangle-shaped build, he had sharp yet kind eyes that showed authority. His hands were gloved in pristine white, a uniform detail among the teachers here. As he prepared to address the class, his gaze landed on me. My stomach twisted as I immediately sensed he was going to call me out. Hoping to deflect attention, I tilted my head and scratched the back of my neck, avoiding his eyes. I see youve finally joined us, Mr His voice was firm but not unkind. Axel, I replied, lifting my gaze reluctantly. Axel Millo. Mr. Millo, he repeated, his tone curious. Ms. Hawke mentioned you were attacked in the forest. How are your wounds, may I ask? Im all healed up, sir, I assured him, keeping my voice even. Good to hear, he said with a small nod. Then, leaning forward slightly, he added, Would you kindly stand and introduce yourself to the class? I rose hesitantly, turning to face the sea of curious eyes staring back at me. My throat tightened as memories of a similar moment from my old school flooded backintroducing myself to a roomful of strangers, only to pass out mid-sentence. The teacher back then had been so spooked she never called on me again. I took a slow breath, trying to piece together a plausible story. Telling the truththat I was yanked into this world by a giant eye in the sky and desperately wanted to leavewasnt exactly an option. Lying, it seemed, was once again my only choice. Out of the corner of my eye, I caught a movement on the rooftop, but I didnt think much of it, as I was focused on how to lie to the entire classroom. My name is Axel Millo, I began, my voice steady but low. My village was destroyed by a goblin attack. I wasnt attending any school before, so all of this is Greek to me. Greek? a student called out, confusion rippling through the room. Unfamiliar, I clarified quickly, suppressing a sigh. Anyway, I hope we can all get along. Thank you, Mr. Millo, the teacher said, his expression softening. Im Ju Poley. Nice to meet you. Likewise, Mr. Poley. You may sit down, he instructed, watching as I quickly obeyed. Since this is your first time at a magic school, Ill briefly go over the basics for your benefit, Mr. Millo. Thank you, sir. Clearing his throat, he stood and clasped his hands behind his back. Those blessed by the gods can wield magic naturally. Others may only access magic through books or tomes. If someone has an active mana pool, it will show on the tests. Those without mana are not required to attend magic schools. He paused, his sharp eyes scanning the room as if daring anyone to interrupt. The five main types of magic are elemental, arcane, nature, celestial, and shadow. Each has subclassesfor example, elemental magic includes pyromancy, hydromancy, geomancy, and aeromancy. He turned his gaze to me. Did your test reveal any magical affinity, Mr. Millo?If you encounter this tale on Amazon, note that it''s taken without the author''s consent. Report it. I hesitated before answering. No, sir. I I didnt show any affinity. A brief silence hung in the room before quiet chuckles rippled through a few students. Mr. Poleys expression hardened slightly as he tugged at his cravat, straightening it with care. These things happen, he said firmly, his voice cutting through the snickers. Youll simply need to work harder than others, Mr. Millo. Y-yes, sir, I stammered, nodding quickly. Satisfied, he smoothed his cravat once more, then brushed his hands down the front of his impeccably tailored waistcoat. The navy-blue fabric was flawless, so crisp it seemed freshly pressed. His grooming was meticuloushis beard, neatly trimmed, and his polished boots catching the faint light from the windows. Everything about him radiated order and precision, as if imperfection was his greatest foe. For the last time, Mr. Poley adjusted his cravat before he turned his sharp gaze back to the class. He surveyed the room, letting his eyes linger briefly on each student before landing on me again. One can cast a spell by channelling their mana and visualising the intended effect, he explained, his tone steady and authoritative. Some advanced spells, such as Hellstorm, require chanting to maintain control. As first-years, you wont touch those until your second year. A hand shot up from the back of the room. Mr. Poley, could you cast an advanced spell? Ive never seen anything like that before! The teacher hesitated, rubbing his chin as if weighing the request. Mm, very well, he said at last, a small smile breaking his otherwise serious demeanour. Well try something harmless yet effective. This spell is called Rabbit, a support spell that enhances jumping ability. Now who wants to volunteer? The same student practically bounced in his seat. Me! Please, sir! Alright, stand up, Mr. Poley instructed. Yes, sir! The student leapt to his feet, brimming with enthusiasm. The teacher raised one gloved hand, his fingers curling slightly as he chanted softly: "Grant this body lightness, Boundless energy within. Rabbits Leap, take flight!" A faint purple glow enveloped the students body, shimmering for a moment before fading. The student examined his hands, his expression lighting up with excitement. Without hesitation, he crouched low and sprang upward. The class collectively gasped as he shot toward the ceiling, his head nearly colliding with the beams. Before disaster struck, Mr. Poley raised his other hand and cast another spell in a fluid motion. An almost invisible gust of wind spiralled upward, catching the students leg like a lasso. With a gentle tug, the teacher pulled him back down to the desk with precise control. The student landed safely, a sheepish grin spreading across his face as he climbed off the desk. He muttered something to his friend, his cheeks flushed. Mr. Poleys brow furrowed. Clean the desk, he instructed, his voice sharp. Dirtiness is humankinds worst enemy. Yes, of course, the student said, wiping the desk with the edge of his uniform. Thank you, sir. That was amazing. Anything for my students, Mr. Poley replied, clasping his hands behind his back. Another hand shot up. Sir, are we continuing with barrier casting today? Ah, yes, the teacher said, stepping down from the platform. This will be an excellent exercise for our new student. One partner will cast a protective barrier while the other practices offensive ice magic. I can pair with Axel, Jane offered, her hand raised. Very well, Ms. Hawke, Mr. Poley agreed, motioning for the class to stand. Everyone, follow me to the practice area. Chairs scraped against the floor as the students shuffled to their feet, murmuring among themselves while they gathered their belongings. I followed quietly, mentally preparing for whatever awaited me next. Chapter 56: Thats troublesome Leaving the classroom, we followed Mr. Poley down the hall. I trailed behind the group, my footsteps slow and heavy, eyes fixed on the floor. The initial rush of attention on me had finally subsided, though the weight of being here still pressed on my mind. I reminded myself over and over: This is temporary. Ill go back home, back to my monotonous life. But first, I needed to get through this lesson, head to the library on the second floor, and pray Id find somethinganythingabout that ominous eye. Jane slowed her pace, falling into step beside me. She offered a small wave and a kind smile. I nodded in response, directing my gaze back to the floor. Youre limping a little on your left leg, she said, her tone laced with concern. Are you alright? Yeah, Im fine. She frowned, studying me briefly. Suzan must have really done a number on you Shes awful. Truly awful. Yeah, I muttered, careful not to let slip the truththat Suzan was likely being controlled by something far worse. And thanks for covering the cost of the vailhouse. Ill pay you and your dad back the two gold. I hate owing anyone. Theres no need, she said, shaking her head. You dont owe us a thing. Still,Ill pay it back, I insisted, keeping my voice low. Before she could respond, Mr. Poleys voice cut through the air. No talking, students. Other classes are still in session, and we wouldnt want to disturb them, would we? Jane gave me a quick nod, then rejoined her friends near the front of the group. I followed quietly, steps dragging, until we emerged into the back garden. The air outside was cool and fresh, the drizzle of rain gentle and unobtrusive. Even so, Mr. Poley raised his hands and began muttering under his breath. Golden lines formed a square on the ground, then rose into the air, creating a translucent barrier around us. The rain now splashed harmlessly off the glowing ceiling, leaving the space dry and protected. With another flick of his hand, Mr. Poley sent a gust of wind sweeping across the area, pushing benches aside to clear the space. He then clapped his hands once, the sharp sound silencing the low hum of chatter. Pair up, he announced, scanning the group. Well begin shortly. Sir? A student held her hand up. I think I saw someone on the the rooftop? Stop with the nonsense, people. Focus. The teacher said, I want you to work hard in this lesson, boys and girls. Understood? Jane stepped in front of me, her boots kicking up a bit of damp dirt as she stopped a few paces ahead. Im terrible at barriers, she admitted with a half-smile. So, whatll it be? Defense or attack? I hesitated. Ill defend? Alright, she said with a quick nod. Cast a barrier. Ill fire some ice shards, and well see how you hold up. Barrier spell, I repeated under my breath. Right. Taking a deep breath, I shut my eyes and focused, doing exactly as Mr. Poley had instructed. I visualized the barrier, trying to channel my mana into it. But as I reached for that power, there was nothing. It felt like trying to grasp at air. Frowning, I opened my eyes, only to find a glowing translucent box floating in front of me. ================== | Spell Not Yet Learned! ================== I blinked, utterly baffled. The box vanished as quickly as it appeared, but when I tried again, it reappeared, flashing red. No matter what I did, it refused to budge. It was clear I needed to unlock the spell somehow, though I had no idea how. Around us, the other pairs were already training, their spells and barriers forming with varying degrees of success. Jane and I stood out like a sore thumb in the middle of the flurry of activity. I cant cast it, I admitted, scratching the back of my head and glancing away. Sorry.Support the creativity of authors by visiting the original site for this novel and more. Janes brow furrowed slightly, but she didnt look annoyed. Instead, she tilted her head, studying me as though trying to figure out what to do next. Janes brows furrowed, her voice low as she murmured, You... cant even cast a basic barrier? My little brother Gabriel can even do that. I shifted uncomfortably, offering a half-hearted explanation. Where I grew up, magic was forbidden. Im still getting the hang of all this. Her skepticism was evident. I thought you said you were from a nearby village? I am, I replied quickly. But before that, my family lived in another country where magic was banned. Strictly. Interesting, Mr. Poley interjected, his voice laced with curiosity as he appeared behind me. And which country might that be? Somewhere up north, perhaps? Id... rather not talk about it, sir, I said, forcing a somber tone. It brings back bad memories. He studied me for a moment, then nodded. Fair enough. Lets try something else. Can you cast an ice spell? No, sir. I only know how to cast a fireball, I admitted. Jane tilted her head, her curiosity piqued. Fire and ice are on the same level. If you can cast fire, you should be able to cast ice too. Try it. Reluctantly, I closed my eyes and focused again, trying to visualise an ice spell. But just like before, a translucent box appeared in front of me: ================== | Spell Not Yet Learned! ================== I sighed, letting my shoulders sag. I cant cast it. Sorry. Jane crossed her arms, her expression softening from confusion to mild concern. Weird You should be able to. The sound of Mr. Poley clearing his throat brought our attention back to him. Alright, lets keep moving. Ms. Hawke, youll cast a barrier. Mr. Millo, step back and throw a fireball her way. Lets see how it holds up. Are you sure about this, sir? I asked, wary. That doesnt sound safe. Itll be fine, he reassured me, though his tone was firm. If anything goes wrong, Ill intervene. Jane smiled, taking a confident step forward. Good luck. She clasped her hands together, and with a deep breath, a swirling wind barrier materialized in front of her. The gusting shield looked impressive, strong enough to fling an arrow off course. I hesitated, feeling the weight of everyone''s eyes on me. Steeling myself, I planted one foot back, raised my palm, and focused. I felt a flicker of warmth in my hand, but nothing materialised because I didnt want to cast it. Come on, Mr. Millo, Mr. Poley encouraged. Focus on your mana. Visualize the spell. I... I cant, I muttered, frustration creeping into my voice. Mr. Poley nodded thoughtfully. It might be your injuries. Youve been through quite an ordeal. Yeah, I mumbled. Probably. It was pointless, he wasnt going to give up until I cast this spell. Suddenly, the warmth in my hand intensified, and a small flame flickered to life. Jane recast her barrier, her confidence unwavering. Mr. Poley gave a nod of approval. Good. Now focus and send it. Yes. Its too weak, he added. Put more mana into it. All of it? I asked, hesitant. No, Mr. Poley said firmly. Yes, Jane interrupted. I can handle it. Mr. Poley shot her a sharp look. Ms. Hawke, thats dangerous. Please, sir. Ill be fine. With a resigned sigh, Mr. Poley stepped closer to Jane, positioning himself to intervene if needed. Alright, but Ill stay close. I nodded, focusing harder. The warmth in my hand grew into a searing heat, my body tingling with energy. Then, it became unbearable. My palm burned, and the energy coursing through me felt as though it would tear me apart. It hurts, I grunted, my breath shallow. Send it! Jane urged, her voice firm. Come on, Axel! Unable to hold back any longer, I exhaled sharply and released the fireball. The moment it left my hand, the world seemed to slow. Mr. Poleys eyes widened in alarm. He lunged forward, shoving Jane out of the way before turning to the students behind us. With a quick motion, he cast a wind spell that swept them aside to safety. The fireball roared to life, far larger and faster than I had anticipated. It shot through the air like a meteor, slamming into the forest beyond the school grounds with a deafening boom. Trees splintered and ignited as the fireball tore through the landscape, carving a path of destruction until it collided with a distant mountain, leaving a charred hole in its middle. The silence that followed was deafening. Huh, I murmured, staring blankly at the destruction. What... was that? Mr. Poley straightened, brushing himself off as he turned to face me, his expression unreadable. Youre... you''re not an F-rank, he stated matter-of-factly. The test must have been wrong. Around us, the students whispered in hushed tones, their gazes bouncing between me and the obliterated forest. Jane, still on the ground where shed been pushed, looked at me with wide eyes. I blinked, my dull gaze fixed on the distant mountain. That''s troublesome... TTTTTT?TTTTTT Chapter 57: Perhaps too bold I shifted uneasily, my arms hanging stiffly at my sides. The headmaster stood near the window, gazing at the scene of destruction Id left behind. Charred trees stretched for miles, and the mountain in the distance now had a gaping hole that pierced clean through. His shoulders stiffened as he turned back, stepping away from the window. Mr. Poley stood beside me, his expression unreadable. The headmaster silently took his seat, opened a drawer, and withdrew a folder. He pulled out a document, laid it on the desk, and began skimming its contents. The air in the room felt thick, and I resisted the urge to fidget. My thoughts drifted to the libraryhow I should be there right now, searching for that book instead of waiting to be reprimanded. Hes F-rank, Mr. Poley, the headmaster finally said, his tone flat. The test results leave no room for doubt. His mana pool is minimal, and he lacks any elemental affinity. Mr. Poley gestured toward the window with a sharp motion. Then how do you explain that? An F-rank couldnt produce something of that scale. That level of destruction is beyond even S-rank capabilities! The headmaster didnt even glance at the window. The test doesnt lie. Well prepare another test for him. See if we made a mistake. Yes, we should. He said. Mr. Millo deserves to be in at least B. The headmaster looked at me. Axel---you told us youve never practised magic before. But this, He pointed out the window. This proves that all the things youve said are lies. No, sir. I replied, shaking my head. No lies. I swear this was my first time casting a spell. The door slammed open, and a student stumbled in, pale and out of breath. S-sir! he stammered, his voice shaking. The Queen shes here. She wants to speak with you about the forest. Before anyone could respond, a guard appeared, firmly but gently pulling the student aside. The door opened fully, and there she wasthe Queen, radiating authority. Mr. Poley immediately dropped to one knee, tilting his head in a formal bow. Following his lead, I quickly did the same, though my movements were stiff and unfamiliar. The headmaster, however, remained seated, his eyes locking onto the Queens with a serious expression. A second guard stepped forward, dragging a chair to the desk and dusting it off before gesturing for the Queen to sit. She adjusted her royal attire with fluid grace and lowered herself into the chair, crossing her legs. My dear brother, she began, her voice cool and composed, though there was an edge beneath the surface. Would you care to explain what happened to the forest? Mr. Poley immediately spoke up, his tone steady but deferential. It was my fault, Your Highness. I overdid a demonstration spell while teaching. I take full responsibility. The Queens gaze hardened, her displeasure evident. Reckless behaviour. Im disappointed that a teacher at this institution would act so irresponsibly. Her words stung, but I couldnt let him take the blame for something Id done. Gritting my teeth, I spoke up, keeping my head low. It wasnt him. It was me, Your Highness. I couldnt control my mana. I apologise for the damage. The Queens focus shifted to me, her sharp heels clicking against the floor as she rose and approached. I caught sight of her shoes and the shadow cast over me. My heart pounded, but I stayed still, refusing to let Mr. Poley shoulder my mistake. I hated owing anyone. The Queen studied me silently, her expression neutral. After a moment, she sighed, her irritation giving way to a measured calm. She turned away, nodding slightly as if coming to a decision. The headmaster stood abruptly, stepping between us. He crossed his arms, his presence suddenly imposing. You wont harm any of my students, sister. She raised a brow, her tone laced with sarcasm. Harm him? Ive already thrown him into my dungeon once before after she found my dagger. What? The headmasters eyes widened, his voice rising. You imprisoned him for what? Finding your lost dagger? The Queens lips twitched into a faint smirk. Indeed. He retrieved it for me. A dungeon seems an appropriate... reward, dont you think? Youre impossible, the headmaster growled, his frustration barely contained. The Queen waved him off dismissively and turned back to me. Which class are you in, boy? A-rank?The author''s narrative has been misappropriated; report any instances of this story on Amazon. I hesitated, then answered quietly, F, maam. Im in the F class. Her gaze narrowed, and she tilted her head, as if sizing me up. No one in F could produce magic like that. Do you think Im a fool? The headmaster stepped in again, his voice firm. He is F-rank. Ive got his test results herelow mana reserves, no affinities. Its all in his file. The Queen looked between the two of us, her expression unreadable. The tension in the room felt almost unbearable as the weight of her scrutiny bore down on me. As a translucent box flickered in my vision, my gaze was drawn to the faint exclamation mark near the bottom of my peripheral sight. It took a moment for me to process, but then, a series of notifications began to flood the screen in rapid succession. You have killed a deer! You have killed a rabbit! You have killed a bear! The list continued, detailing every creature affected by the destruction. The notifications kept appearing for nearly twenty seconds before disappearing, only for another box to take their place. =================== | You have reached Level 3! =================== | New Skill: Void Portal =================== | HP, STA & MP Restored =================== | Available Ability Points: 3 =================== The Queen paced back and forth, her cold gaze cutting through the silence in the room. The guards stood by, watching closely. I kept my head low, feeling the weight of her anger. The forest lay in ruins, and the mountain had a gaping hole that couldnt be ignored things were getting serious, I could feel it. Take this teacher, she ordered, her tone sharp and decisive. He needs to be taught a lesson. Cut his tongue. No! the headmaster exclaimed, stepping forward. You will not harm my students or my staff! Her expression hardened. You dare to challenge me, little brother? Ill silence you if I must. The headmaster held his ground. This is my school. You have no right to interfere. Her eyes narrowed, the tension in the room thickening. Youve grown bold. Perhaps too bold. Another notification appeared, drawing my attention. +-------------------------------+ | Ability Points | | Available: 3 | +-------------------------------+ | [+]Strength: (0) | [+]Agility: (2) | [+]Intelligence: (0) | [+]Constitution: (1) +-------------------------------+ |Confirm Allocation |[Confirm] [Reset] +-------------------------------+ Desperation clawed at me as I quickly allocated one point to intelligence, hoping to fix my negative mana. But my stats remained unchanged. Panicking, I dumped all three points into strength, praying it would help somehow. +-------------------------------+ | Ability Points | | Available: 0 | +-------------------------------+ | [+]Strength: (3) | [+]Agility: (2) | [+]Intelligence: (0) | [+]Constitution: (1) +-------------------------------+ |Confirm Allocation |[Confirm] [Reset] +-------------------------------+ The moment I confirmed the changes, another translucent box popped up, showing my updated stats. The pain in my leg and shoulder faded, leaving me feeling strangely invigorated. Level 3: Axel HP: [] 110/110 Mana: [?????????] -1/100 Stamina: [] 120/120 Options: [Inv | Skills | Quests] The guards grabbed Mr. Poley by the arms, dragging him toward the door. My heart raced as I stood, unable to let him take the blame for my actions. Please, your highness, I pleaded. It was my fault. Let him go. I beg you. One of the guards struck me across the head. Hold your tongue, boy, before you make things worse for yourself! Mr. Poley winced as he was roughly handled but turned toward me. Dont, Mr. Millo. Dont make this harder on yourself. The headmaster sighed, his tone softening. Mirelda, enough. The Queen hesitated, turning her gaze toward him. After a tense pause, she motioned for the guards to release Mr. Poley. They let him go with a shove, and he clutched his arm, glaring at the Queen. Come with me, she commanded, pointing at me. Well talk. Sister The headmaster cut in. Do. Not. Calm down, dear brother. She said with a smile. Im just going to talk with him. Nothing will happen. You--- Now sit down before you make me angry, brother. She continued with a smile. Come on, Axel. Follow me. Chapter 58: An excellent idea I remained frozen, my gaze fixed on the headmaster. It seemed he had done all he could to shield me. Any further defiance of the Queen could lead to his downfalleven if they were family. That revelation had stunned me when I first heard it. But now that I knew they were blood-related, I chastised myself for not catching the resemblance sooner. Normally, I was the type to notice the smallest details. It came naturally, observing life from a distance as I often did. The guard beside me motioned toward the door with a curt gesture. Reluctantly, I stepped forward. Spending another night in the dungeon was out of the question. Whatever the Queen wanted to discuss, Id play along, agree to everything, and hopefully be done with it quickly. In my world, avoiding people like her was second nature. They were too preoccupied with their lofty ambitions to notice someone quietly slipping by beneath their notice, all while silently wishing for their fall from grace. It seemed some things didnt change, no matter the world. The rich always got their way, leaving the rest of us to scrounge for scraps. As I took another step, my throat tightened, and I swallowed hard. Today was supposed to be simple: finish the lesson, find the library, and get that book. Yet obstacles kept piling up. The door clicked shut behind us, the sound echoing down the corridor. I came here to observe the tournament training, the Queen began, her voice sharp but calm. She turned slightly to glance over her shoulder. Then I saw that fireball. Was it really you? Yes, your highness. I apologize. My voice came out steady, but my stomach churned. Hmm, she murmured, beginning to pace slowly. I also came to speak with you. Me? I asked, following hesitantly. The guard trailed a step behind, his eyes never leaving me. I want to know how you managed to retrieve my dagger, she said without looking back. You outwitted my guards and found it before they did. It was pure luck, your highness, I answered, choosing my words carefully. I stumbled across her hideout by chance. Thats when I saw her. Her? she asked, her pace slowing. Explain. In detail. I I hesitated, crafting the lie carefully. I was trying to return to my village, your highness, to retrieve a few personal belongings. Thats when I saw herSuzanand her mother. Her steps faltered briefly. The village overrun by goblins, she said softly, more to herself than to me. She resumed walking, her heels clicking against the stone floor as we descended a spiral staircase. And then? I crept close enough to grab the dagger straight from her sheath, I continued, feeling the lie twist in my gut. Then I ran, but she caught up to me and well, she beat me up pretty badly. A hand gripped my arm, tugging me back slightly. One of the guards leaned in close, his breath hot against my ear. You dont walk beside the Queen, boy. Stay behind her. Where are your manners? Let him be, the Queen said dismissively, her voice light but commanding. If the elves attack, hell be caught in the crossfire. That works for me. Elves? I asked, confused. Are they planning to attack? Of course, she replied, her tone as casual as if she were discussing the weather. They know Ill be watching the training today. They wouldnt pass up an opportunity like this. At the bottom of the staircase, she stopped abruptly. I froze in place as well, and the guards followed suit. She turned to face me, her piercing gaze studying my expression. Her hand reached out and rested over my chest, right where my heart pounded like a drum. I stiffened, unsure of what to do. My eyes darted anywhere but at hertoward the windows, the floor, even the guards standing rigidly by. Her touch was light, yet it weighed heavily on me. Whatever she wanted it, or wanted to say, couldnt be good. You look unaffected by everything, the Queen said, her tone sharp and probing. Your face never changes. But your heartit beats like a war drum. Youre afraid, arent you? Yet you bury it well. The tale has been stolen; if detected on Amazon, report the violation. I clenched my fists, holding her gaze for a moment before lowering my head slightly. Anyone would feel fear standing so close to you, your highness. She withdrew her hand from my chest, her expression unreadable. So, youre saying people see me as a monster? A cruel ruler? No, I replied carefully, trying to keep my voice steady. What I mean is youre an important figure in this country. Its natural for people to feel intimidated in your presence, your highness. Thats all. Her attention lingered on me, but I caught a flicker of movement from the corner of my eye. Two of the four guards trailing behind us leaned toward each other, whispering while casting furtive glances our way. Their murmurs ceased abruptly when I turned my head to look at them, and they snapped back into formation as though nothing had happened. Mirelda nodded, resuming her walk. Students scattered across the halls bowed deeply as we passed, only moving once she was out of sight. Even the teachers halted in their tracks, heads lowered respectfully until she was beyond them. The cats, however, paid her no mind. They lounged lazily under benches, curled near tree roots, or stretched indifferently under the heavy air of her presence. Do you like cats, Axel? she asked suddenly. No, your highness, I said flatly. I dont like animals. But you saved a pack of dogs from being slaughtered, she countered, glancing at me from the corner of her eye. Thats commendable. I was just running from Suzan, your highness, I replied. The guards saved them, not me. She sighed softly, muttering to herself, Why are men so resistant to compliments? Hmm Her gaze lingered on me again, and this time it settled on my forehead. That scar it doesnt look like one from a sword. An arrow wound, I lied smoothly, masking the truth. Not a sword, no. Who gave it to you? My mother, I said without hesitation, keeping my gaze ahead. She shot me. The answer seemed to surprise her, and she tilted her head. Your mother hated you? No, your highness, I replied evenly. She loved me, but she loved her drugs more. One day, while high, she accidentally shot me. The Queens expression softened, her curiosity evident. Theres no bitterness in your voice, she remarked. You dont hate her for it? No, your highness, I replied calmly. I hate my deadbeat father for abandoning us. My mother wasnt perfect, but she did her best. She always made sure I was fed, even if it meant going without herself. She loved me in her own way. Mirelda seemed to contemplate my words. Thats noble, she said finally. My mother, on the other hand, tried to smother me in my sleep. She wanted Ayax to take the throne instead of me. Ayax? I asked, surprised. Your headmaster, she said casually. And guess what I did when I claimed the throne? Executed her? I guessed. No, she said with a slight smirk. I gave her a mountain of gold and banished her. Hmm, I muttered, unsure of how to respond. Hmm? Thats all you have to say? she teased, raising an eyebrow. Youre not even listening to me, are you? Im trying not to say anything foolish that might warrant my execution, your highness, I admitted bluntly. She laugheda surprisingly light and genuine sound. Fair enough, Axel. Fair enough. The heavy front doors creaked open, and we stepped into the rain-soaked courtyard. The slight drizzle showed no sign of letting up, and the grounds were nearly empty save for a few patrolling teachers and workers transporting weapons. Despite the gloom, the district radiated an almost unnatural vibrancy, as though enchanted to defy the dreariness of the weather. Mirelda tilted her head back, closing her eyes briefly as she breathed in the fresh, rain-scented air. She seemed impossibly youthful in that moment, her face betraying no trace of the power she wielded or the cruelty she could unleash. Are you going to join the tournament? she asked, lowering her gaze to me. You should. Your mana may be lacking, but you clearly have some skill. The destroyed forest is proof enough of that. No, your highness, I said, shaking my head. I plan to focus on learning magic. Where I come from, practicing magic was strictly forbidden. A shame, she mused. It would have been entertaining to watch you compete. We can arrange a training session, one of the guards suggested. He can spar against someone in F-class if you wish to see his skills, my Queen. An excellent idea, she muttered, her lips curling into a sly smile. Lets do that. I opened my mouth to object but stopped myself. The thought of challenging her decision felt dangerous, and I didnt want to risk the dungeon again. Yes, your highness, I said reluctantly, bowing slightly. Id be happy to train. Chapter 59: Save the Queen One of the guards gestured for me to step inside the building. Without a word, I followed, leaving the Queen and the other three guards behind in the garden. The man leading me had a massive greatsword strapped to his back, the blade gleaming faintly even in the dim corridor lighting. As we entered the halls, I noticed the lessons had ended, and students filled the space, some seated in groups and chatting, others simply loitering. The atmosphere shifted as we passed. Heads turned, hushed whispers followed us, and every so often, I caught snippets of gossip about the Queens unexpected presence. Thankfully, it seemed her arrival had overshadowed the minor destruction I had caused earlier. For now. The guard ahead of me glanced back briefly, his eyes scanning me with a flicker of curiosity before he faced forward again, clearing his throat. Youre not limping anymore, he remarked, his voice gruff but neutral. Yeah, I replied, keeping my tone casual. Looks like it finally healed. He didnt respond, but his attention lingered on me for another moment before shifting back to the hall. This guard was different from the pair who had whispered to each other earlier. While those two carried twin swords at their sides, this man wielded a weapon so massive I doubted I could even lift it, let alone swing it. As we rounded a corner, a commotion ahead drew both our attention. Two students were locked in a brutal fistfight, rolling on the ground as they traded blows. A teacher tried to intervene, but one of the boys lashed out with a wind spell that struck her square in the chest, sending her sprawling to the floor. The guard halted immediately, his hand flying to his sword hilt. He waited a moment, perhaps expecting the teacher to regain her footing and take control, but when she remained unconscious, he stepped forward. Oi! he barked, his voice cutting through the chaos like a blade. Stop that right now! The Queen is here, and this is how you behave? Hes a damned elf sympathizer! one of the boys shouted, his face twisted with fury. My mother died because of those monsters, and he has the nerve to say they should be treated as equals! Thats enough! the guard snapped, his presence looming as he stepped closer. One more word, and youll both be thrown in the dungeon! The other boy, struggling to his feet, glared defiantly. Not all elves are the same, he said, his voice trembling but firm. Some are bad, yes, but some are good. Just like humans. Thats all I was saying. Teachers rushed into the scene, pulling the boys apart and escorting them in opposite directions. One teacher cast a healing spell on her unconscious colleague, helping her sit up, while the guard beside me shook his head and sheathed his sword. Pathetic, he muttered under his breath as we resumed walking. The tension lingered, heavy in the air, as though the fight had left an imprint on the space. It wasnt surprising that even here, among students, the hatred for elves ran deep. But the defiant boys words echoed in my mind, a rare voice of dissent in the sea of prejudice. The guards hand tightened on his sword hilt, his eyes scanning the hallway as if expecting another outburst. His vigilance was palpable. If I were tasked with protecting the Queen, Id probably be just as jumpy. One mistake, and it would be my head on a pike. Na?ve thinking, the guard said suddenly, breaking the silence. Humans and elves living in peace? Thats a fantasy. I glanced at him. So, you agree with the other boy? That all elves are evil? Of course, he replied without hesitation. But I dont blame kids like him for holding onto hope. Its foolish, but hope often is. I didnt respond, merely humming softly as we stepped into the back garden. The drizzle had stopped, leaving the air cool and damp. A handful of students lingered, some reading under trees, others chatting in small groups.A case of content theft: this narrative is not rightfully on Amazon; if you spot it, report the violation. The guard moved to the center of the garden, his boots crunching against the gravel. Removing his helmet, he raised his voice to address the students. Students of Redwood, clear this area immediately! A training session is about to begin for the Queens observation. The students groaned audibly, their displeasure written across their faces as they gathered their belongings and shuffled toward the building. Despite their frustration, none dared to argue. The Queens authority was probably too large for that. As the last of them disappeared indoors, the guard signaled me with a raised hand, gesturing for me to approach. I stepped out of the buildings shadow and walked toward him. There, he said, pointing toward a nearby training ground. Go wait there. Ill find your teacher and arrange for someone from F-class to spar with you. Yes, sir, I replied, my voice steady despite the churn of unease in my stomach. The guard gave a curt nod before striding off, leaving me alone in the clearing. I let out a long, quiet breath, bracing myself for what was to come. Fighting had never been my thingI''d spent most of my life avoiding confrontations. Now, here I was, willingly walking into one just to get the Queen off my back. It felt like I was miles outside my comfort zone, a foreigner in every possible way. The training grounds stretched out before me, a vast square with tiered seating surrounding it, each row slightly higher than the one in front, offering a clear view of the arena. The scale of the place reminded me of a football stadium back home, though the ground here was grass, unlike the gravelly back garden I had just left. "Great," I muttered under my breath, my shoulders slumping. "Sparring just what I needed." I climbed up to the second row of seats and sank down into a chair. My eyes scanned the arena, but my mind was somewhere else entirely. I''d never held a weapon in my life, let alone used one. If the Queen thought this would be entertaining, shed be sorely mistaken. My strategy? Run, dodge, and hope my opponent got bored before I got hurt. Even though my body had healed, my mind was still bruised from every encounter I''d been through since arriving in this world. My fingers fidgeted with the edge of my school uniform as my thoughts wandered. I remembered the first time my mother hit me. She had been high on drugs, her paranoia at its peak. Shed accused me of being a doppelganger sent to steal her money. No matter how much I pleaded, telling her I was her son, she wouldnt listen. She slapped me, her voice trembling as she screamed that I shouldnt dare speak her childs name. The memory felt distant, like an old scar, but it still ached. My dull gaze drifted to the arena again, only to lift when I noticed movement. The door to the main building opened, and the Queen emerged. Three of her guards trailed behind her, their polished armor reflecting the faint sunlight. I straightened in my seat, my mind snapping back to the present. The fourth guard wasnt with herlikely the one tasked with finding someone for me to spar with. As I watched her approach, the air seemed to thicken. Suddenly, a translucent box appeared in front of me, hovering just above eye level: ================ NEW QUEST ================ Quest Title: Save the Queen -------------------------- Deadline: Today Objective: * Save the Queen before its too late. -------------------------- Rewards: - Gold: 2 - Experience: 25 XP ========================== [Accept] [Decline] The world slowed as my eyes locked onto the message. My heart thudded against my ribs. I shot up from my seat, my focus shifting between the Queen and the guards around her. Something wasnt right. The guard nearest to her unsheathed his twin swords with smooth precision. My hand shot out instinctively, though I wasnt sure what I was even trying to do. The sound of steel scraping echoed across the training grounds, and before I could shout, the second guard followed suit, drawing his own weapons. Then it happened. One of the guards kicked the man in the center, sending him stumbling forward, his balance broken. The other guard took advantage of the moment, plunging his sword directly into the mans skull. Blood sprayed as the victim crumpled to the ground, lifeless. My breath caught in my throat. Oh, shit, I whispered, frozen in place. Youve got to be kidding me The Queen turned sharply, her eyes widening as she registered the betrayal unfolding before her. The surviving guards raised their weapons, their intent clear as they closed in on her. "No, no, no. Fuck me," I muttered, my pulse racing. My feet moved on their own, carrying me toward the arena. I didnt have a plan, but I knew one thingif I didnt act now, this wasnt going to end well for anyone. Chapter 60: Running out of time One of the guards gripped the Queen by her neck, his sword raised high, ready to strike. She twisted sharply, jerking her head back to smash into his nose with a sickening crack. The blow made him stumble, giving her just enough time to break free and stagger forward. Another guards blade whistled through the air, narrowly missing her and slicing through her royal garments. She stumbled two more steps, her gaze locking with mine as we met in the middle of the arena. At first, I saw fear etched into her features. But in an instant, it morphed into furya blistering rage that made the anger she''d shown during dinner seem tame by comparison. Her glare shifted back to her attackers, her face a mask of pure hatred. It was the kind of look that promised slow and brutal vengeance. She clapped her hands together, a surge of mana crackling between them. As she opened them, a sword shimmered into existence, hovering briefly in the air before she snatched it by the hilt. She dropped into an aggressive stance, her weapon raised, while I stood frozen, my hands awkwardly stretched out in some meaningless gesture. You treacherous bastards! she roared. How dare you! Shut up, whore, one of them sneered. His lips curled into a vile grin. Ill kill you first, then have my fun with that royal body. Her knuckles whitened as she tightened her grip on the sword. Youll regret this, she spat through clenched teeth. Ill make sure of it! Yeah? The guard chuckled darkly, his blade glinting. Well see. Desperately, I hurled a fireball toward the guard on the right, but it sputtered weakly, barely singeing his armour. He didnt flinch, didnt even blink. A cold wave of realisation washed over mewe were completely outmatched. Let this boy go. she shouted, her eyes not leaving her enemies. He doesn''t need to die here! Oh, so he can fetch help? the guard snapped, his gaze flicking toward me. Youre both dead. Just make it easy on yourselves. The first guard lunged, his sword meeting the Queens in a clash of sparks and steel. The second guard turned his attention to me, his swords gleaming with dark intent. My chest tightened as he advanced. I had no choice but to move. When his blades swept toward me, glowing with a sinister red hue, I barely managed to sidestep and duck. The air crackled with energy where the swords had passed, and I could feel the heat radiating from them. Before I could recover, he kicked me hard in the side of the head. Pain exploded across my skull as I hit the ground, my vision spinning. He loomed over me, his swords raised for the killing blow. Panic seized me. With no time to think, I grabbed a fistful of gravel from the ground and hurled it into his face. He stumbled back, cursing loudly as he wiped at his eyes. The Queen, meanwhile, unleashed a gust of wind, knocking her opponent off balance. She followed up with a quick strike aimed at his midsection, but he recovered just in time to block with one of his swords. The other blade lashed out, catching her across the cheek and drawing a thin line of blood. She hissed, more out of anger than pain. Youll pay for that, she snarled, adjusting her stance. The guard pursuing me wiped the gravel from his face, his expression twisted with fury. You little pest, he growled, his voice dripping with venom. Ill make you regret that! Let us go! I shouted, my voice cracking. Just stop! I scrambled to my feet, my breath ragged, and launched another fireball at the advancing guard. He deflected it effortlessly with his sword, the spell ricocheting back and slamming into my chest. The impact hurled me several metres backward, the wind knocked out of me.This story is posted elsewhere by the author. Help them out by reading the authentic version. Before I could recover, he charged, ramming his shoulder into me. The force sent me sprawling onto the ground once more, my back stinging from the rough landing. Stay down, you little rat! he barked, spinning around and dropping to one knee. His swords came down in a deadly arc, aiming to finish me. With a desperate roll, I avoided the strikebut not entirely. One blade grazed my stomach, the shallow cut instantly searing with pain. Ahh, damn it! I hissed, clutching my side as blood began to soak through my shirt. Across the battlefield, the Queen faced her own dire situation. Her opponent, with a twisted smirk, muttered an incantation. The ground beneath her stirred, and two wooden hands, rough and strong like tree bark, erupted from the soil. They clamped around her ankles, pinning her in place. She swung her sword at the restraints, but the enchanted wood resisted every strike without so much as a splinter. The guard seized the opening, slashing at her with brutal precision. His blade caught her left arm, slicing through the royal fabric and drawing blood. The Queen cried out, and with a fierce second strike, she managed to shatter the wooden binds. As the guard prepared his next attack, she ducked low, rising sharply to drive the crown of her head into his chin. The satisfying crack of bone was followed by a gush of blood from his bitten tongue. He snarled, hatred burning in his eyes. Meanwhile, my opponent glared at me, his teeth bared like a predator closing in on prey. Dont even think about running! he growled. Itll only make this worse for you. His words were punctuated by a sharp kick aimed at me, but I caught his knee with a desperate kick of my own, buying myself just enough time to scramble to my feet. He was on me again in an instant, his twin swords flashing like fangs. For a fleeting moment, I caught my reflection in his blade: hollow eyes rimmed with dark circles, sweat dripping from my face. My body trembled with fear, but I had no choice but to fight. I raised my arms in defence, and his swords bit into them, carving twin lines of fire up my forearms. I gritted my teeth against the pain, shoving him back with what little strength I had. Desperation fueled me as I began casting fireballs one after another, the air crackling with heat as I hurled them. He blocked each one with a shimmering barrier, his swords discarded for the moment as he focused on maintaining his defence. "How the hell is he casting so fast?!" the guard snarled, dropping to one knee as he struggled to keep the barrier intact. His frustration only spurred me on. I kept throwing fireballs, refusing to let up, hoping to wear him down. Damn it, just die already! his comrade bellowed at the Queen, their swords clashing in a vicious exchange. The Queen, panting but resolute, flung an ice shard at him, forcing him to retreat a step. Taking advantage of the reprieve, she tore at the lower half of her gown, ripping it for easier movement. Her crown clattered to the ground as she tossed it aside, her expression grim and focused. Were running out of options here! I shouted, barely sparing her a glance as I continued my barrage. As if to answer my desperation, the guard I was facing dropped his barrier and reached for his swords. Before he could grab them, I rushed forward, slamming my knee into his face. The sickening crunch of cartilage breaking was followed by a spray of blood from his nose. He staggered back, his lips split and his expression wild with rage. But even that wasnt enough to stop him. He pushed himself back to his feet almost instantly, blood dripping from his face as he growled. You were chosen by me! My personal bodyguards, the Queen spat, her voice filled with rage as she parried another strike. And yet you betray me? Traitors! Where are the rest of the guards? I shouted to her, ducking another swing. You didnt come here with just these three, right? Her lips tightened, but before she could respond, one of the guards laughed darkly. Havent you figured it out yet? Your precious Queen ordered them all out of the school grounds to sweep the district. His grin was mocking, his eyes gleaming with malice. I did no such thing, you tricked them! the Queen snapped, her voice dripping with fury. Youll pay for this treachery! Why side with the elves? They are the enemy! Youre the enemy! he roared back, his sword carving through the air. Youll be the ruin of Nutar! Were saving this country from you, you racist bitch! Her eyes burned with rage as she lunged at him, their blades locking in a deadly embrace. Nutar needs me! Youll regret this betrayal! Do you hear me? Regret it! I gritted my teeth and steeled myself. We were running out of time. This wasnt a fight we could win alone. Chapter 61: For the greater good The two guards circled us, their swords gleaming, ready to strike. My throat tightened as I followed their every movement, heart pounding. Beside me, the Queen wasnt as hesitant. Without warning, she surged forward, her blade slashing down toward one of the guards. He raised his sword just in time to block, sparks flying from the impact. But the Queen anticipated thisshe drove her elbow into his jaw, the crack echoing in the tense air, and unleashed a powerful fireball straight into his chest. The spell sent him staggering backward, his armor scorched and smoking. Just as she prepared to drive her sword into his chest, the other guard crouched low, his palm slamming into the ground. The earth beneath us quaked violently, the ground rippling like water. The tremor sent both of us tumbling, our balance completely thrown. The injured guard seized his chance, lunging at the Queen and pinning her to the ground with his hands locked around her throat. She gasped and clawed at his fingers, her face reddening as she struggled for air. My instincts screamed at me to runto disappear into the second building while they were distracted. After all, this Queen had thrown me into a dungeon, mocked me, and threatened innocent people. But leaving her now would label me an accomplice to her murderand two gold coins as a reward could go a long way. Damn it, I muttered before yelling, Stop! as I rushed toward the fight. Before I could intervene, the second guard grabbed me by the hair and threw me to the ground with brutal force. His boot came down on the back of my head, grinding my face into the dirt. Stay out of this, kid, he growled. Watch as Nutar is freed from her tyranny! I struggled against his weight, my fists pounding the ground. Stop! You dont have to do this! No. For the greater good we have to. The Queen, still locked in her attackers grip, sank her teeth into his hand. He howled in pain, jerking back and loosening his grip. She seized the opportunity to punch him hardonce, twicebefore delivering a fierce kick that sent him sprawling. Wasting no time, she scrambled to her feet and drove her blade straight through his neck. Blood spurted as he gurgled and collapsed, lifeless. I barely had time to process this before the second guards boot collided with the back of my head. Stars exploded in my vision as I stared up at the sky. The sun, momentarily peeking through the dark clouds, felt unbearably bright. My vision blurred, each blink stretching into an eternity as my body wavered on the brink of unconsciousness. Gravel bit into my skin, and the metallic tang of blood mixed with dirt in my mouth. Ugh... I groaned, spitting out the foul mixture. Shit The guard stood over me, sneering. You leave blood and destruction wherever you go, Queen. This country will be better off without you! The Queen, her chest heaving, glared at him with unyielding defiance. You dont understand what Ive seen. You dont know what the elves have done. Dont make excuses! he shot back. You treat non-humans like dirt, tax them into poverty. Is that what a Queen should be? Nutar is a human kingdom, she retorted, her voice sharp. When we rose against the elves domination, no other race stood with us. This country was built with the blood and sweat of our people.This story has been unlawfully obtained without the author''s consent. Report any appearances on Amazon. Lies, he spat. You wrap your cruelty in patriotic nonsense. Nothing but lies. Before the argument could escalate, the sharp hiss of an arrow cut through the air. It landed inches from me, embedding itself into the ground. My eyes widened in panic as I struggled to push myself up, but my head spun and I collapsed again. Another arrow whizzed past, grazing my ear and making me flinch. The third struck me square in the back of my shoulder. I screamed, the searing pain shooting through my body. Before I could catch my breath, a fourth arrow pierced my lower back. My legs gave out, and I collapsed behind a bench, clutching my wounds. Peeking out from my makeshift cover, I spotted figures perched elegantly on the rooftops of the school building. Their hoods cast shadows over their faces, but their poised stances and masterfully crafted bows were unmistakable. They moved with a precision and grace that chilled me to the core. Elves, the Queen hissed, batting away an arrow with her sword. Of course. Bastards! Arrows rained down from the rooftop as I swore under my breath, hurriedly yanking the shafts from my body. Each removal sent jolts of pain up my spine, but thankfully none of them had sunk deep enough to cause serious damage. My movements remained steady for now, though I knew when the adrenaline wore off, the pain would cripple me. Five elves leapt from the rooftop with ease, landing as gracefully as cats. If I tried something like that, they''d scrape what was left of me off the ground with a shovel. These elves were no amateurs---they were professionals. Uh-oh I muttered, eyes widening as one elf approached, bow drawn and ready. Dont! Please! She didnt hesitate. The arrow whistled through the narrow gap in the bench, finding its mark in my arm. I cried out, the force of the shot throwing me backward. The impact drove the arrow deeper into my flesh, and a wave of dizziness washed over me. Blood trickled down my arm, warm and sticky, and the world around me began to dim. With trembling hands, I snapped the arrow and yanked it free, gritting my teeth against the pain. Then, scrambling like a desperate animal, I threw myself behind the Queen, who had conjured a barrier spell. Arrows ricocheted off the shimmering shield, but her arms quivered with the strain of holding it up, her legs visibly shaking. The spell wouldnt hold much longer. What do we do? I asked, panting as I forced myself to stand. Theyre going to kill us. Then we die on our feet, she replied, her voice resolute but tinged with exhaustion. Any chance of a plan B where we dont die, Your Highness? I pressed. If you come up with one, she said, offering a strained smile, let me know. Before I could respond, an arrow struck the barrier with explosive force, shattering the spell and sending both of us flying. I landed hard on the second row of arena seats, rolling to a stop with my head spinning. Coughing through the smoke and debris, I pulled myself upright, using a chair for support. A sudden whistle filled the air as an arrow struck the seat in front, the tip grazing my throat. My breath caught as I flung myself backward, clutching my neck to make sure I was still intact. Too close I whispered, my voice trembling. I crawled a short distance away, the rows of chairs obscuring their line of sight. My mind raced. I needed a stronger spellsomething big enough to shift the tide. My thoughts turned to the fireball Id conjured against Mr. Poley, the overwhelming force Id felt surging through me that day. It had hurt, sure, but it worked. Come on, Ax. Youve got this. Heat began to build in my right hand, growing hotter with each passing second. Sparks danced in the air, and my palm throbbed with a searing pain. The magic was reaching its limit, just as it had before. All I had to do was let it loose. But before releasing it, I tried one last time to reason with them. Stop! I shouted, leaving my hiding spot. Please, you dont have to do this! Hes still alive? the guard sneered, his voice dripping with disdain. Kill that bastard. Great. So much for diplomacy Chapter 62: A dungeon rat With a grunt, I released the fireball. The force recoiled through my body, throwing me backward and slamming my head against a seat. Ugh damn it The spell exploded on impact, leaving a crater in the arena floor. Smoke billowed outward, obscuring everything. I stumbled forward, coughing, and spotted the Queen struggling to rise. An unconscious elf was on top of her, likely caught in the blast. As I made my way toward her, an elf emerged from the smoke, her silhouette sharp and menacing. Before I could react, her boot connected with my face. The impact sent me sprawling, blood spraying from my mouth as I hit the ground hard. Once again, stars danced in my vision, and the smoke made it impossible to see where shed gone. You ruined everything! she screamed from somewhere in the haze. Another arrow hissed through the air. Instinctively, I raised my arm to shield myself---and glad I did. Pain tore through my palm as the arrow punched clean through, stopping millimeters from my face. Shit! I shouted, gritting my teeth as I rolled onto my side, cradling my injured hand. Where is she? the elf snarled, her voice filled with rage. Wheres that damned Queen? I cant see her in this smoke! Kill the bitch! Clenching my jaw, I forced myself to focus. Kenneths advice from the forest echoed in my mind: Push the arrow through, or youll do more damage. Breaking off the shafts protruding end, I steeled myself. My breaths came in sharp gasps, and I counted silently, though I knew I wouldnt make it to three. Without warning, I shoved the arrow through, a raw scream tearing from my throat as it exited the other side. Tears streamed down my face as I lay there, clutching my bleeding hand. My lips trembled as I bit down hard to stifle another cry, the coppery taste of blood mixing with the salty tang of sweat and tears. Okay okay I whispered to myself, struggling to suppress the overwhelming urge to pass out. Youre not done yet. I peeled the fresh bandage from my shoulderthe wound Suzan had left during her attackand quickly wrapped it around my bleeding palm. The bandage turned red almost instantly, but it would have to do. The moment I straightened up, somethingor someoneslammed into me from behind, driving me to the ground. The metallic clang of armor told me it was the traitorous guard, though the lingering smoke made it impossible to see him clearly. Before I could react, he climbed on top of me, pinning me down, and began pummeling my face with relentless punches. Left, right, lefteach strike landed with sickening force. I raised my arms to shield myself, but he yanked them aside every time, refusing to let up. Damn it! Stop I choked out, trying to push him off.The author''s content has been appropriated; report any instances of this story on Amazon. Shut up! he snarled, his fists continuing to rain down. After six or more brutal punches, I managed to twist onto my stomach, forcing him to mount my back instead. Taking the chance, I threw my head backward, connecting with his nose in a sharp crack. He cried out and stumbled off me, finally giving me space to breathe. I barely had a moment to recover before the elf emerged through the thinning smoke, her bow drawn. I dodged to the side, the arrow grazing my arm as it shot past. The smoke was clearing slightly, but my vision remained blurred, my head pounding from the earlier beating. Behind me, the guard scrambled to his feet and grabbed a discarded sword. He swung wildly, and though I tried to dodge, the blade''s tip slashed across my back. Pain flared up, sharp and burning, but the wound was shallow enough that I could still move. Please, I begged, stumbling forward. Just stop. Please! The elf didnt listen. She closed the distance and drove her fist into my stomach. The blow knocked the wind out of me, leaving me gasping and disoriented. I collapsed to the ground, clutching my abdomen, the world spinning around me. I needed to act. Now. Closing my eyes, I visualized the spell, pouring everything I had into it. The familiar warmth engulfed my right hand, but this time it burnedsearing hot and almost unbearable. Sparks crackled as the magic intensified, and I gritted my teeth against the pain. Pushing myself to one knee, I raised my hand and aimed at the guard. With a roar, I released the fireball. He reacted quickly, casting a barrier spell, but it wasnt enough. My attack shattered the shield, sending him flying into the main building. Glass shattered as his body crashed through one of the windows, disappearing inside. Ah, thank fuck. I whispered. Crap. The elf froze, her bow trembling in her hands. She took a few hesitant steps back, then turned and vanished into the smoke, retreating for now. Panting heavily, I stumbled toward the Queen. The unconscious elf was still sprawled on top of her, so I dragged him off, my injured hands shaking from the effort. Reaching down, I grabbed her by the arm and hoisted her upright. She groaned as she tried to step forward, only to crumple back down. Damn it she muttered, her face contorted in pain. Your ankles hurt, I said, catching her before she fell completely. Without a second thought, I lifted her into my arms, carrying her like some kind of fairy-tale damsel. Her head rested against my chest as I ran toward the second building, weaving through the dissipating smoke. Every step sent jolts of pain through my body, but I pushed on, knowing we didnt have much time before the elves regrouped. You she murmured weakly, her voice barely audible over my laboured breathing. How---you? I think, I said with a dull voice, shouldering the door open and stepping inside, we can safely call this Plan B, dont you think, Queen? She gave the faintest laugh, closing her eyes as I kicked the door shut behind us. Not bad for a dungeon rat And with that, I had officially exhausted all my strength, nothing left to even stand. I carefully placed her on the ground, then turned back to see if the door could be locked. Noticing that it could, I grabbed the thick wooden bar from the wall and lowered it into place, securing the door. The teachers and students who had likely been watching the fight outside came rushing down the stairs, their faces etched with concern. I sighed in relief as I sat on the ground, my back resting against the wall. The blood coming from my wounds was forming a small pool around me, and every inch of my body ached. Finally I whispered to myself. Its over. Chapter 63: First day =================== NOTIFICATION =================== * Quest Completed: Save the Queen -------------------------------- + XP Gained: 25 + Gold Earned: 2 -------------------------------- | Current XP: 95 / 100 -------------------------------- | Progress: ? ========================= Dismissing the translucent box with a wave of my hand, I staggered to my feet, moving closer to a window. The smoke was clearing, and the elves outside were stirring, slowly getting back on their feet. One of them pointed directly at the building we had taken refuge in, and the others began advancing, bows drawn. My breath hitched as I ducked back out of sight, narrowly avoiding the gaze of one who had gotten too close. The air felt heavy with tension as I leaned against the wall, exhaling shakily. The teachers were herding the students back up the stairs to safety, their voices hushed but urgent. I hurried over to the Queen, offering my hand to help her up. But, with a grimace, she pushed herself to her feet on her own. Theyre coming, arent they? she asked, her voice steady but low. I nodded. Yeah. Whats the plan? Well she trailed off, gripping the wall for support, her expression tightening. Before she could finish, a loud thud echoed through the room as someone outside attempted to kick the door down. The lock held firm, but the kicks kept coming, each one louder than the last. Frustrated, the attackers abandoned the door and moved to the window. I flinched as an elf swung a sword at the glassbut, to my surprise, it didnt shatter. The window seemed as sturdy as the door. The Queen straightened up, still bracing herself against the wall with one hand while clutching her stomach with the other. Her breaths came shallow and quick, her face pale. Can you cast a healing spell? she asked without looking at me. I cant, I admitted. I dont know how to cast anything but that fireball spell. She let out a dry chuckle, shaking her head. Fantastic. Just the fireball, huh? And something called Void Port A sudden, thunderous crash outside cut me off. The pounding noises stopped, replaced by the unmistakable sounds of chaos: steel clashing, screams, and the wet, sickening noise of blades cutting into flesh. I ducked low and crawled back to the window, peeking cautiously. My heart nearly stopped when a body slammed into the glass, leaving a smear of blood as it slid down. Gasping, I fell backward, landing hard on my backside. Shaking my head, I forced myself back up to look again. Through the thinning smoke, I saw hima massive, armoured figure, the same burly man who was there when I had interrupted the Queens dinner before. He was a force of nature, cutting through the elves with terrifying efficiency. Their arrows clanged uselessly against his golden shield, and their spells didnt so much as scratch him. In seconds, the group outside lay motionless. The archers on the rooftop leaped down, attempting to overwhelm him. Two loosed their arrows, while the others charged with blades drawn. It didnt matter. They were no match. In less than twenty seconds, the battlefield was silent, littered with elf bodies. Wheres the Queen? he roared, planting his sword in the ground with a reverberating clang. Queen! My throat felt dry, but I managed to croak, H-here! Were here!Stolen content alert: this content belongs on Royal Road. Report any occurrences. He spun toward the second building and sprinted toward us. The door hadnt even fully opened when he shoved past me, sending me stumbling to the floor. Ignoring me entirely, he rushed to the Queens side and immediately began casting a healing spell. A faint golden glow surrounded her, and her pained expression began to soften. As he worked, his eyes flicked upward, noticing the teachers and students standing frozen on the stairs, watching the scene unfold. His face twisted in fury. Why arent you helping the Queen, you fools? he barked, his voice booming. She needs healing! The room seemed to come alive as guards poured in, weapons drawn and ready for another fight. I let out a sigh of relief, finally feeling the weight of the situation lift slightly. Dragging myself to my feet, I leaned against the wall, every inch of my body throbbing with pain. The headmaster entered moments later, his gaze immediately falling on me. He scanned me briefly before glancing at the Queen, then back to me. Gods are you alright? he asked, his tone unusually gentle. I offered a weak nod, wiping the blood from my face. Not exactly the first day I was expecting. Stay still, he said, preparing to cast a healing spell. A faint warmth spread through my body as the spell took effect, numbing the pain in my wounds. Thank you, sir, I murmured, finally able to catch my breath. TTTTTT?TTTTTT Mr. Poley opened the infirmary door, holding it wide for me. Without a word, I limped inside, avoiding the gazes of the nurses. Exhaustion weighed me down as I practically collapsed onto the nearest bed, smearing the pristine white sheets with my blood. The day had been relentless, and all I wanted now was to sleep for ten uninterrupted hoursor, better yet, escape to a world where nothing was trying to kill, maim, or otherwise destroy me. The infirmary smelled faintly of herbs and antiseptics. Bright sunlight filtered through the tall windows, reflecting off rows of neatly arranged beds with crisp, white linens. Cabinets along the walls housed various potions and tools, while a soft hum of magical wards buzzed faintly in the background. One of the nurses approached and gently guided me to lie on my back. I winced, my eyes fixed on the ceiling as her fingers carefully examined my wounds. After a moment, she leaned closer to her colleague and murmured something, but I couldnt catch what she said because my ears were ringing. Her hands glowed faintly as she began casting a healing spell, warmth spreading through my body as the pain gradually ebbed away. Youve been through hells, Mr. Poley remarked from his spot near the door, his arms crossed as he watched the nurse work. And I owe you my thanks, Mr. Millo. Defending me like that I wont forget it. It was my fault that the forest was destroyed, I said, my voice softer now, drained of its earlier edge. I shouldnt have put so much mana into it. He arched an eyebrow, his curiosity evident. Fault? Im actually impressed. You should be in one of the higher classes, not F. The amount of mana you used for a level-one spellit shouldnt have been possible. Not by a long shot. A thought struck me, and I hesitated before speaking. What if hypothetically, someone had negative mana? What would happen then? Negative mana? His expression shifted into one of mild amusement. They wouldnt be able to cast even the simplest spell. Its not possible, theoretically or otherwise. I hummed thoughtfully but said nothing further. The nurse straightened up, dusting her hands off as the glow faded. Hes healed, she announced. The arrow wounds werent too deep. His palm injury, though, will need time to fully recover. Good work, Mr. Poley said with a nod. Another nurse added, without looking up from her task, Hell need to rest. Ideally tomorrow and maybe the day after too. Understood, Mr. Poley replied, his tone decisive. Hell take the time he needs. A knock at the door interrupted us. A student stepped inside, his eyes scanning the room before settling on Mr. Poley. The headmaster needs you, sir. Where is he? Hes with the Queenits urgent. Queen, huh Yes, sir. Okay Ill go now, Mr. Poley said, adjusting his waistcoat. He glanced back at me briefly. Take care of yourself, Mr. Millo. Thanks, sir, I muttered, watching him stride out the door. Once he was gone, I attempted to sit up, my muscles protesting. The first try failed, but on the second attempt, I managed to prop myself up. Across the room, the nurses were focused on another patienta guard who had apparently been struck in the knee by an arrow during the attack. He lay unconscious, pale but stable. I flexed my hand, then unwrapped the bandage. The wound, once a gaping hole, had closed completely, leaving no trace that it had ever existed. I stared at it for a moment, relief washing over me. Can I leave now? I asked, my voice hesitant. One of the nurses glanced in my direction but didnt pause her work. Youre free to go. Just dont overdo it, especially with that hand. No heavy lifting. Understood. Thank you for taking care of me. Her colleague chimed in without looking up, We just did what were here for. Take it easy, boy. I nodded, though they werent paying attention anymore, and rose carefully to my feet. The pain was mostly gone, but the days events had left me drained. Still, I couldnt shake the feeling that more trouble was waiting just around the corner. What a first day Chapter 64: Void 101 I walked past the nurses, easing the door open and stepping into the hallway. The second floor stretched before me, and I paused, confused. I had no memory of climbing up here from the first floor. Everything from earlier felt like a blur, as if my mind had been in survival mode, blocking out unnecessary details. A low murmur drew my attention to a cluster of students gathered by the windows, their eyes fixed on something outside. Curiosity tugged at me, and I moved closer, peering out alongside them. Below, guards were dragging the surviving elves into chains, forcing them to their feet. The captured were shoved toward a carriage, their legs bound together. I winced as one guard struck an elf across the head, sending him staggering. Another guard grabbed a captive by the collar, slamming his face into the carriage door with enough force to break his nose. Blood splattered on the dark wood, but the elf didnt resist, his body limp. I hope the Queens okay, a boy near me muttered, his voice tense. Same, his friend replied. Still cant believe it they attacked her here. At Redwood of all places. And a student too. Bastards, the first added bitterly. The second boy crossed his arms, his tone hardening. You know, I used to think the elves werent so different from us. That they could be reasoned with. But after this? Nah. Kill them all. End it. Exactly, his friend agreed. Its the only way to deal with monsters like them. I pulled away from the window, their conversation leaving a sour taste in my mouth. Down the hall, the library doors stood open, students streaming in and out, oblivious to the scene outside. My gaze lingered on the massive double doors. That library might be my only shot at answersat understanding why I was here and, more importantly, how to get back. My legs felt heavy, but I forced myself to move toward the library. The murmur of the students behind me faded, replaced by the echo of my footsteps. None of them seemed to care about the elves suffering. If anything, they seemed to revel in the guards brutality. Hey! a voice called out from behind me. I slowed, turning to see a familiar figure leaning casually against the wall. It was that Noxivera girlthe one whose name had already slipped my mind. Its you again, she said, her tone light but teasing. Uh hey, I replied, scratching the back of my neck. Please dont tell me youve forgotten my name already. She tilted her head, crossing her arms as her dark and scaly wings gave a subtle twitch. Its, uh Its I stammered, wracking my brain. Mox, she said, shaking her head with a mock sigh. Unbelievable. Anyway, I saw how you fought to protect the Queen. Nice job. Yeah, I muttered, avoiding her gaze. Didnt have much of a choice. I figured if I ran, people might think I was in on it with the attack. Staying felt safer. Her lips quirked into a smirk. So noble. And here I thought you liked playing the hero.This story originates from Royal Road. Ensure the author gets the support they deserve by reading it there. No one likes being a hero, I said flatly. Trust me on that. Her almost-pink skin shimmered faintly in the light streaming through the windows. The black horns on her head gleamed, and her dark red wings shifted slightly, as if she moved them unconsciously. My gaze lingered a moment too long, and she must have noticed. Her expression tightened, and she turned to the side, her wings flaring out. One of them smacked me straight in the face, the force knocking me back a step. I stumbled, clutching my nose as I looked at her, embarrassed. I wasntI didnt meanSorry. Its my first time seeing a Noxivera. You already said that, she remarked, brushing a strand of dark hair from her face. I hesitated, then asked, Can you fly? She smiled, her wings giving a quick flutter. A little. A few meters, maybe. What about you? Got wings hidden somewhere? Uh, no, I replied, deadpan. Shocking, she said with mock surprise, pushing off the wall and standing upright. So, where were you rushing off to? The library, I answered, glancing toward the open doors in the distance. Im looking for a book called Void 101. Why? Got recommended to me. I shifted on my feet. Sorry, Im in a hurry. See you around. Huh. Right. Sure, she said, stepping aside with a casual wave. Good luck. I nodded, turning and resuming my walk toward the double doors. Entering the library, I paused, taking in its impressive size. The space was vast, with towering bookshelves covering every wall and lining the middle of the room like silent sentinels. The library had two stories, with staircases at either end on the right and left. Looking up, I could see the second floor forming an upside-down ''U,'' the balcony lined with more shelves and railings. The wooden floor beneath my feet creaked softly as I stepped further in. Much of it was covered by an ornate red rug, its strange patterns almost glowing under the dim light. The windows, one near each staircase, werent enough to illuminate the room fully. Instead, several candles were mounted on the walls, their flickering flames casting shadows that danced across the shelves. The room felt warm relaxing almost. A few students were scattered around, occupying the comfortable furniture placed throughout the library. Thick, padded couches sat in cozy corners, some with small side tables stacked with extra books. A couple of polished wooden desks, each accompanied by a chair with a cushioned seat, were spaced out near the shelves for individual study. It all seemed inviting, a quiet haven for anyone seeking peace or answers or weirdos like me searching for an eye in the sky. To my left, a lone desk sat near the entrance. Behind it was a woman with sharp eyes and a faintly amused expression, deeply absorbed in the book she was reading. She barely glanced up as I approached. Hello, I said, stepping closer to her desk. Im looking for a book named Void 101. Can you tell me where to find it? She turned a page calmly, not bothering to meet my gaze. Interested in the Void, huh? Her voice had a teasing lilt. Good taste. Yeah something like that, I replied, unsure if she was being sincere or sarcastic. Do you know where it is? Its levitating behind you, she said nonchalantly, as if that was the most normal thing in the world. I blinked, turning slowly. Sure enough, a book hovered behind me, bobbing gently at shoulder level. Its movement was almost hypnotic, as though carried by an invisible tide. Hesitating, I reached out and grabbed the book from the air. It was unnervingly cool to the touch, its black leather cover smooth under my fingers. I glanced back at the woman, who gave me the faintest nod before returning to her own reading. Swallowing hard, I found the nearest empty desk and sat down. My chest tightened as I placed the book before me. This was itthe moment I had been waiting for. If this book didnt have answers about the strange eye that threw me into this world, I didnt know where else to turn. Alright, I muttered to myself, flipping open the cover. My fingers trembled slightly as I smoothed the first page. Lets see what youve got. Chapter 65: A part of it The Void. It was described as a place where time had no meaning, where nothingness consumed everything. A realm apart from reality, shrouded in mystery. The information was fragmented at best, with no mention of the eye in the sky I had seen. Instead, the book detailed a colossal creature, said to be as large as a city, covered in countless, unblinking eyes. According to legend, this entity once roamed this world but was cast into the Void ages ago. Instead of perishing, it adapted to its new domain and became the God of the Void. In ancient times, only a select few could open a portal to the Void, but now such knowledge was lost. The Void had become a prison for the most dangerous and unnatural beingsimmortal creatures unable to die. The book also hinted that anyone entering the Void would slowly lose their memories until nothing of their former self remained, a chilling fate. Someone opened a portal to the Void in my world? I muttered, my voice barely audible. No, that doesnt make any sense. Axel, a familiar voice called out, soft yet startling in the quiet of the library. Youre here? I turned, my eyes landing on Jane as she approached. Oh yeah, I replied, closing the book halfway and sitting back. Just reading. She slid into the chair next to mine, her movements casual. What book? Void 101, I said, tapping the cover lightly. Her eyebrows rose slightly. Ah, that one. Strange stuff in there. Are you done with it? Not yet, I admitted, glancing at the thick section of unread pages. Barely scratched the surface. Its dense. Yeah, it is, she said with a faint smirk. But its worth it. Did you read about the Lost 100 yet? The Lost 100? I leaned forward, the term unfamiliar. She nodded, her tone shifting as if recounting a tale passed down through generations. They were the ones who defeated Valkaar the second timethe creature from the Void. Without them, Nutar wouldnt exist. No, this whole realm wouldnt exist. I furrowed my brow. Who were they exactly? Janes eyes lit up. When Valkaar breached our realm, its power destabilized and accidentally opened a portal to another world. A hundred people came through, their mana so overwhelming it rivaled even the gods. The Lost 100, I echoed, the name rolling off my tongue with weight. They were wearing this school uniform, werent they? Jane chuckled softly. They were. Strange sense of style, huh? But those uniformstheyre part of our history now. This clock tower, for example, she gestured toward the window, was inspired by their world. It helped us track time like never before. Even the school uniforms we wear are based on theirs. Comfortable, arent they? Oh, they also taught us this language." What happened to them? I asked, leaning closer. Did they ever go back? Her expression dimmed slightly, and she shook her head. No. They tried, but they couldnt. They spent the rest of their lives here, in Nutar.Stolen content alert: this content belongs on Royal Road. Report any occurrences. The words hit me like a brick wall. My grip tightened on the edges of the book, the leather creaking faintly under my fingers. They never left? I whispered. They couldnt, she said softly. Like I said, they tried, but nothing worked. They lived out their days here. I sank back into my chair, my chest hollow. My mind raced, connecting dots I didnt want to believe. The Lost 100James ridiculous story was true. Years ago, people from my school were pulled into this world, just like me. They defeated a monster, changed history, and still they never made it back. So that means I whispered, my voice tight with unease. If something like this happened again---I mean, people were to teleport here again, does that mean the monster could return? Janes expression darkened. Its possible. But its just speculation. No one knows for sure, and lets hope we never find out. I hesitated, lowering my gaze to the book, my fingers tracing its edges. Why did this thing open a portal in the first place? Why those people? Why my scho---why that 100 people? She shrugged, leaning back slightly. Her voice was quieter now, tinged with uncertainty. No one really knows. Maybe it was just random. Valkaars power was unstableit could have happened anywhere. I nodded slowly, forcing myself to stay calm. And the monster it was defeated, right? Completely dealt with? Not exactly. Janes voice was steady but serious. Something like that cant truly die. The Lost 100 managed to push it back into the Void, but they had to seal it there to keep it from coming back. Sealed it? How? They worked with the gods to create shrines. A gods power depends on prayerspeoples faith keeps them strong. As long as the gods remain powerful, the seal on the Void holds. I exhaled, running a hand through my hair and sitting back in the chair. So, if the gods lose strength it gets out? Exactly, she said softly, her tone grim. The weight of her words pressed against my chest. I stared at the book again, the faint shimmer of its dark cover catching the light. A chill ran down my spine as questions swirled in my mind. I couldnt tell her the truthnot now, not ever. No one could know I was pulled here. If the Lost 100 had been brought into this world centuries ago to stop Valkaar, and I was here now did it mean something was stirring again? Was this creature breaking through its prison? Or worse was I a part of it? I swallowed the lump in my throat and forced myself to sit upright. Its a lot to think about, I muttered, keeping my voice steady. Jane gave a faint nod, her gaze lingering on me for a moment. Yeah. But its all just old history now, you know? Nothing to worry aboutat least, for the moment. I managed a weak nod and turned my attention back to the book, but my thoughts were anything but calm. Nothing to worry about? I doubted that. Whatever had brought me here wasnt randomand if the Lost 100 couldnt leave, what chance did I have? I refused to be stuck here, I refused to fight a war that wasnt mine. I had to get to my own world, I was just temporary here. No escape, huh? I muttered, my fingers brushing absently over the edge of the book. Yeah. A bad fate. She tilted her head slightly, her brown eyes narrowing. Why the sudden interest in the Void? Its I hesitated, letting out a long sigh. Someone recommended this book to me. Jane didnt press further, her shoulders relaxing a bit. Well, its an interesting read. Creepy, though, if you ask me. I stood up, tucking the book under my arm. Yeah, Ill head out. Thanks for explaining that stuff, Jane. She pushed her chair back and stood as well, brushing her skirt smooth. No problem. Oh, youre staying in the boys dorm, right? Havent paid the two gold and five silver yet, I said, shaking my head. Then you should find Liam, she suggested, pointing toward the library door. He hangs around after school to make sure everythings in order. Hell help you out. Got it. Thanks for the tip. Take care, Axel, she said with a small smile as she turned to leave. You too, I replied, watching her walk toward the exit before heading out myself. Chapter 66: Check the room out I paused in the middle of the hallway, my dull eyes fixated on the scene outside the window. The sun was shining brightly now, the rain a distant memory. Birds chirped in the trees, and their branches swayed gently in the breeze. A pang of determination stirred within me. I couldnt give upnot yet. Not until I had exhausted every possibility. I just refused to accept that I was stuck here. I refused to live in a world where monsters lurked around every corner. I couldnt give up. The books mention of the Lost 100 lingered in my mind. If I could uncover more about them, maybe, just maybe, Id find a way out of this nightmare. After all, ancient sorcerers had once opened portals to the Void. And fateor something sinisterhad gifted me with a skill called Void Portal. But I wasnt ready to use it. Not yet. The risk was too great. Opening a portal could unleash the Voids monstrous god, Valkaar, into this world and bring destruction. That skill was a last resorta gamble I wasnt willing to take until I knew more. Hmm To my right, I noticed Liam reaching the top of the stairs, heading toward another window. He leaned against the sill, his gaze lost in thought as he surveyed the outside world. Adjusting my cravat, I walked toward him. Hey, I called out. Liam. He glanced over his shoulder, his expression calm but curious. Axel. Still hanging around? Was reading a book, I replied casually, stopping a few steps away. Mind if I ask a couple of questions? Go ahead, he said, resting an elbow on the windowsill and turning to face me fully. The Lost 100, I began. What do you know about them? Not much, honestly, Liam said with a shrug. They showed up here a century ago. The thing is, there werent exactly 100 of them. Thats just what people started calling them. Why the name? I asked, leaning against the wall. Its catchy, I guess. Easier than calling them the mysterious group who saved the world. He replied with a serious face, then folded his arms. They were teleported here when Valkaars power became unstable. You know who that is, right? Yeah, I replied, nodding. God of the Void. Or goddess, Liam corrected, raising an eyebrow. Theres evidence to suggest Valkaar was humana womanbefore being consumed by the Void. Huh Liam straightened, his tone turning somber. She was a mother. To maintain peace in her country, her son was demanded as a sacrifice by Rowe, the Goddess of Death. She refused. Fought back against an entire kingdom, killed countless innocents, and even assassinated the king. But they caught her in the end. Her and her son were both thrown into the Void as punishment. I crossed my arms, frowning. Thats harsh. Yeah, he said, his voice tinged with bitterness. When she was trapped in the Void, her body decayed, her memories faded, and her rage grew. Thats how she transformedpure hatred turned her into a monster. I glanced at the floor, processing his words. So, when she became the God of the Void, she attacked again? Right, Liam confirmed. She tore through dimensions to invade our world a second time. But her power was unstable, and thats when the portals opened. His gaze darkened as he added, It wasnt just portals, though. Monsters flooded through. The sun vanished. Ash fell instead of rain. It was chaos. Thats all in Void 101 if you havent gotten to it yet.Love this novel? Read it on Royal Road to ensure the author gets credit. Im reading it now, I muttered. The Lost 100 stopped her, right? Well, stopped is a stretch, Liam replied, They forced her back into the Void and sealed it. You cant really kill a god. I hesitated before asking, I heard their mana pools were massive. That true? Depends on who you ask, Liam said, scratching the back of his neck. People like to say their mana was so immense it dwarfed everyone elses. But theres no actual record of it. Just speculation. Figures, I murmured, glancing back toward the window. Liam pushed himself upright, brushing off his sleeves. Anything else? Ive got things to do. Actually, yeah, I said, pulling out a small pouch of coins. Im ready to pay for the dorm room. His brows rose in mild surprise. Two gold and five silver, right? Follow meIll get you sorted. With a nod, I followed him, my mind still turning over everything hed said. TTTTTT?TTTTTT The boys dormitory stood like a fortress, a towering four-story structure. Its barred windows gave off an austere vibe, and a long rectangular flag fluttered down from the roof to the ground. The bold white fabric bore the words REDWOOD BOYS DORMITORY in sharp black lettering, edged with golden corners. The triangular tip near the ground was black, as if it had been dipped in ink. Across the street, the girls dormitory mirrored the design perfectlyan identical building with its own matching flag. The dormitories werent far from the school, only a short walk of four or five blocks. Very different compared to my world, where I had to wake up at the crack of dawn to catch the bus. It was a small silver lining in a situation that otherwise filled me with dread. I clenched my fists briefly. This didnt change anythingI was still determined to escape this place. Here it is, Liam said, stopping beside me. He gestured toward the entrance. The boys dormitory. Lets head in. Right, I muttered, stepping forward. Liam opened the heavy door, and we walked inside. The interior was unexpectedly cozy for a student dorm. The wooden floor creaked faintly underfoot, and the air carried the warm aroma of roasted chicken and spices wafting from the kitchen. The main room was a mix of functionality and comfort. Wooden tables and chairs were scattered around, their design simple yet sturdy, with cushions that looked slightly worn but inviting. Along the walls, bookshelves stood neatly stocked, offering a mix of novels and textbooks. A long counter stretched across one side, clearly the hub of activity. Behind it, a short man with a magnificent mustache polished a glass with a towel. Above the counter, a chalkboard menu listed various meals and drinks, though none of them were alcoholic. The warm lighting from brass fixtures overhead gave the space a welcoming glow. This is not bad. Liam nodded, leaning against the counter. Better than expected? I shrugged, my face neutral. Its something. He waved me over as he reached into his pocket. Lets get you settled. I think theres a single room on the first floor. Follow me. The man behind the counter noticed us and straightened up. His face lit up at the sight of Liam, though his brow furrowed slightly when his gaze shifted to me. Liam! he called out warmly, setting the glass aside. Good to see you, my boy. Liam didnt waste time with pleasantries. This is Axel. New student of F. He needs a room. Got anything available? The man scratched his chin, his mustache twitching. We do, but well, theres that one. You know, the old storage room we cleared out. Liam nodded thoughtfully. Theres also the option of a shared room. Ill take the storage room, I said without hesitation. Both men blinked at me, surprised by the quick decision. Suit yourself, the mustached man said, reaching under the counter to pull out a thick ledger. Name? Axel Millo, I replied, watching as he flipped through the pages. M-I-L-L-O? he confirmed, glancing up briefly. Yep. He scribbled my name down. F-class. Next payments due this day next month. Welcome to the Boys Dormitory, Axel. Liam placed the coins Id given him on the counter, then gestured for me to follow. Come on, lets check the room out. Chapter 67: So much luck The stairs creaked slightly as we ascended, opening into a wider, more inviting hallway. The space felt alive, with small benches lining the walls where students lounged, chatting quietly or flipping through books. Shelves filled with knickknacks and potted plants broke up the monotony of the walls, giving the corridor a warm, lived-in atmosphere. In one corner, a cluster of small tables and chairs was arranged, with a few students sipping steaming mugs while poring over notes or laughing at some shared joke. The faint hum of conversation filled the air, punctuated by the clink of ceramic and the rustle of pages. Beneath my feet, a rich, velvety rug stretched the length of the corridor. Its deep crimson and gold patterns were intricate, almost hypnotic, but the most peculiar thing about it was the way it shifted. I noticed a few muddy footprints I''d left behind when we had first entered, but as I took another step, the marks began to fade, the rugs fibers knitting together with a gentle, almost imperceptible ripple, erasing the evidence of my presence as if by magic. Wow. I muttered. Yeah. He nodded. Thats what I said when I first saw this place. Its huge. Liam led me through this bustling scene, his stride calm. At the very end of the corridor, where the lively atmosphere gave way to quieter surroundings, he turned left. There, a small set of four steps led downward to a plain wooden door. With a quick glance back to ensure I was following, he pulled the handle and stepped aside, gesturing for me to enter. The room was barely more than a closet. A single bed, its thin mattress looking worse for wear, was crammed against the right wall. The door brushed its edges when fully opened. Opposite the bed sat a tiny desk and chair, both scratched and wobbly, with a small window above them. A single candle mounted near the door provided the only light, casting faint shadows on the peeling white walls. Liam wrinkled his nose. This is pathetic. My thoughts exactly, I muttered, stepping inside. You sure you want this room? he asked, crossing his arms. We can still put you in a shared one. I shook my head. No. This works. Liam sighed, his expression skeptical but resigned. Your call. You can change it whenever you want. Yeah, I murmured, sitting on the edge of the bed and glancing around the room. My call, huh Liam paused at the top of the steps, glancing down at the narrow space I was now calling home. His sharp eyes met mine, his brow furrowing slightly. I stood near the bed, arms loosely crossed, my expression unreadable. The state of the room didnt faze me much. My old room had been worseants crawling in through every crevice, and the damp, rotting floorboards constantly emitting a stench that stuck to me like a second skin. I used to bathe twice a day just to avoid the whispers of unkind classmates accusing me of never showering. Compared to that, this was manageable. The only thing I truly missed was the comfort of my old beda sanctuary where I could escape the world. Even in my bleakest moments, it had been my safe haven. No one else, no eyes watching mejust me and my relentless, boring thoughts. Ill head out now, Liam said, adjusting his glasses as he straightened up. Room 401, top floor, if you need anything. Dont hesitate to come by. Thank you, I said softly, my voice steady. You didnt have to go through all this trouble. As head of the student council, its my duty, he replied with a curt nod, already stepping back. Good luck, Axel.The tale has been illicitly lifted; should you spot it on Amazon, report the violation. Goodbye. I watched him leave, his footsteps fading as he ascended the steps. Just as I turned to close the door, a figure appeared at the bottom of the small staircasea boy who looked vaguely familiar. My eyes lingered on him as he approached, trying to place his face, but my brain, ever quick to discard unremarkable details, refused to cooperate. Still, I was certain wed crossed paths before. Hey, the boy greeted, stopping just outside the door. His eyes flicked over the cramped room, and he winced. Yikes. This is uh cozy. Yeah. My tone was flat, almost disinterested. Not much space for two people, so I wont even invite you in. He chuckled awkwardly, shifting on his feet. Im Aiden. Mortans son. Weve met before, I think? Oh, right. Aiden. I nodded, though my voice betrayed no real recognition. Nice to see you again. You live alone? He asked, his gaze sweeping the tiny room again. My friends and I are just down the hallsecond floor. Weve got an extra bed in our room if you want to join us. Itd be less depressing. No, thanks. I leaned against the doorframe, keeping my tone polite but firm. I wouldnt want to be a bother. But I appreciate the offer. He hesitated, as if unsure how to respond, then gave a small shrug. Well, alright. Just thought Id say hi to our new neighbor. Neighbor, I repeated, a hint of amusement in my otherwise dull tone. Thanks for stopping by. Anyway, Aiden continued, stepping back, dinners almost ready. Theyre serving it early since classes are out for the day. Are you coming? Yeah, I replied. Could use some food. Great, follow me. He led the way down the hall, his footsteps light against the wooden floor. As we descended the stairs, the rich aroma of spices and cooking meat wafted up, teasing my senses. My stomach growled audibly, earning a chuckle from Aiden. On the first floor, the dining area was already bustling with students. Tables had been pushed together to accommodate larger groups, laughter and chatter filling the space. Behind the counter, the mustached man from earlier was handing out steaming plates of food, his cheerful demeanor infecting the room with warmth. Stews on the menu, Aiden said over his shoulder, grinning. Smells good, right? I nodded slightly, keeping my face neutral even as the scent made my stomach clench in anticipation. We joined the line, the students ahead of us chatting animatedly. So, Axel, Aiden started, glancing at me, howd you find Redwood so far? Its big, I admitted after a pause. Never been to a school like this. He smirked. Its one of the biggest in Nutar. They like to brag about that a lot. I offered a noncommittal hum in response. Aidens tone shifted slightly, more curious now. By the way, you did a solid job during that fight alongside the Queen. I dont know if I couldve handled it. Just had some luck on my side, I replied, stepping forward as the line moved. Luck? He raised a brow. Come on, I saw how much mana you poured into that fireball. No way youre F-Class. Youve gotta be at least B. Like I said, I repeated, keeping my voice level, a little luck. He gave me a skeptical look but didnt push further. Instead, he grinned. You thinking of joining the tournament? I tilted my head slightly. Tournament? Yeah, Aiden explained. First, its just our schoola tournament with participants from every class. Then the winners go on to face students from other schools. Its a big deal. Tons of people come to watch. Not really my thing, I replied, shaking my head as we neared the counter. Id rather not. Fair enough, he said, shrugging. Though the prize is 250 gold. Imagine what you could do with that. Hmm. I glanced at him briefly, my expression unchanged. Yeah. Axel, the new student! the man behind the counter exclaimed with a broad grin as the line moved forward. Youre in luckmy special stew today. I stared at him, deadpan. Yeah, lucky me. So much luck Chapter 68: Retrieve the artifact Aiden and I sat at an empty table, steam rising from our bowls as we grabbed our spoons. I had barely chewed my first bite when two boys approached, nodding in silent greeting before sliding into the seats across from us. I returned the nod, my gaze flicking between them, trying to place their faces. They didnt look familiar, but when one leaned toward Aiden and muttered something, I pieced it togetherhis roommates. The one sitting closest to me had messy red hair that fell around his face like a halo of chaos, a man bun tied sloppily at the back. His dark crimson eyes sparkled with mischief, his smirk adding to the roguish air. The other boy was his oppositeneatly groomed, with blonde hair and sharp blue eyes. His stature was smaller, maybe 170 centimeters, and his cravat was tied so meticulously that it screamed effort. His uniform, however, had seen better daysfaded and fraying at the edges. So, Aiden began, pointing to the redhead, Axel, meet Leo. Leo grinned, leaning forward slightly. Nice to meet you. Likewise, I said, keeping my tone neutral. And this, Aiden continued, gesturing to the blonde boy, is Seker. Pleasure, Seker said, his tone polite but not overly warm. Same, I replied with a short nod. Leos grin widened as he picked up his spoon. First day, and youve already got a story worth bragging about. Saving the Queen? Damn, man, youre a legend. Impressive, Seker added, his voice softer but still sincere. Not many wouldve stood their ground like that. I shrugged, stirring my stew. Luck, mostly, I said before taking another bite. But thanks. Leo chuckled, tapping the edge of his bowl with his spoon. If thats luck, Id love some of it. I was dead asleep during the attack, and when I woke up, people were raving about how you poured so much mana into a fireball that you destroyed half the ground. Thats... an exaggeration. My voice remained flat, betraying none of the discomfort their attention stirred. I was just trying to survive. Despite my deflection, I could feel their eyes on me. My attempts to fade into the background were failing spectacularly, but honestly, I couldnt bring myself to care. Blending in was the least of my problems. My focus was elsewherefinding a way out of this world and back to mine. The words from Void 101 echoed in my head. If people in ancient times could cast portals to the Void, surely someone here could replicate it. But where would I even start? My spoon idly stirred my stew as my thoughts spiraled, the noise of the hall fading into the background. Youre distracted, Leo said, snapping me back to the present. His finger poked at the tear in my uniform near the shoulder. And your uniforms a mess. Arrow hole? Yeah, I muttered, glancing at the damage. Forgot about that. You should fix it, he said, his tone light but insistent. Cant go around looking like a walking war story. Good point. Seker leaned forward, his gaze steady. You should join our team. Team? For the tournament, he explained. Were still short by two people. I shook my head, leaning back slightly. Not my thing. I dont like fighting. Fair enough, Leo said, shrugging. Not like wed win anyway. Redwoods never taken the top spot.This tale has been unlawfully obtained from Royal Road. If you discover it on Amazon, kindly report it. You never know, Aiden interjected, a hint of optimism creeping into his voice. We could make history. Leo snorted, waving his hand dismissively. Sure, in our dreams. But hey, Im game to try. Seker turned to me, curiosity evident. How did you do it? I mean, youre F-Class. Your mana pool should be low, but you poured so much into that spell. I met his gaze, unflinching. Like I said, luck. Luck. He repeated the word with a faint smile, his expression tinged with something I couldnt quite place. Wish I had a little of that right now. Leo frowned. Why? Whats going on? Seker sighed, his shoulders sagging slightly. Moms medicine. We still need four doses, but the price keeps going up. How much now? Aiden asked. Twenty-five gold, Seker replied, the frustration clear in his voice. It was ten just yesterday. Leo let out a low whistle, shaking his head. Thats insane. Have you picked any guild quests? Of course, Seker said with a weary smile. Im always at the guild. But since I cant pick from the main board, the pay barely covers anything. Bastards, Leo muttered. A ten-to-twenty-five jump is robbery. Aiden leaned forward, concern etched across his face. Hows your mom holding up? Worse, Seker admitted, his voice tightening. Were rationing the doses we have, but its not enough. Without hesitation, Leo pulled his pouch onto the table, spilling coins onto the surface. One, two, three Ive got five gold. Three here, Aiden said, digging into his own pouch. Seker shook his head firmly, pushing the coins back toward them. Keep your gold. Ill handle it myself. Leo rolled his eyes, leaning back in his chair. Always the prideful one. Its not pride, Seker retorted. Its responsibility. I cant rely on others for this. Leo smirked, his expression suddenly lighting up. In that case, Ive got a plan. Seker raised a brow. What plan? Leo leaned closer, lowering his voice. Well pick quests from the main board. They pay way better. Thats against the rules, Aiden said, frowning. Were not allowed. And how would you even do tha--- I tilted my head slightly, cutting in. Youll get an adult to pick the quest for you and give them a cut. Thats what youre thinking, isnt it? Leo grinned, pointing a finger at me. Exactly! Youre sharp, Axel. We think alike, eh? That was something I used to pull back in middle schoolgetting adults to buy cigarettes for me. Id slip them a little extra cash, acting like it was some masterstroke of rebellion. Back then, I thought sneaking my moms cigarettes and puffing away made me the coolest kid on the block. But as time went on, I dropped the habit. It wasnt good for my healthor, of course, my wallet. Seker leaned back in his chair, his fingers drumming a restless rhythm on the table. Across from him, Aiden propped his chin on his hand, his brow furrowed as he stared at the floor. Clearly, he was mulling over the proposal. Meanwhile, I kept eating, my eyes fixed on my bowl. Sure, I wouldnt say no to earning some gold, but diving into mainboard quests? That sounded riskier than I cared for. Lets say we go along with this plan, Aiden said, breaking the silence. What kind of quest would we even pick? Im not killing anyone. Thats non-negotiable. Seker nodded, his lips pressing into a thin line. Most of the stuff on the mainboard is extreme. Leo scoffed, crossing his arms as he leaned forward. Not all of it. Theres one quest I saw earlierexploring some ruins and retrieving an artifact. Fifty gold for the job. Fifty! His voice rose, excitement cutting through his tone. Tell me thats not worth considering. A ruin? Aiden raised an eyebrow, his skepticism tempered with curiosity. I guess thats manageable? Maybe? I set my spoon down, brushing off the lingering heat of the stew. If its on the mainboard, its there for a reason. Probably means its dangerous, I pointed out, keeping my tone even. And, Seker added, folding his arms across his chest, theres a good chance someones already taken it. Mainboard quests dont sit around for long. Leos smirk widened as he reached into his pocket and pulled out a crumpled sheet of parchment. He slapped it onto the table, smoothing it with one hand for emphasis. The hastily scrawled text read: Retrieve the artifact from Gullious Cave and bring it back to me. Reward: 50 gold. There, Leo said, his eyes glittering with mischief. Still available. Found it right before dinner. Aiden glanced at the paper, then back at Leo. You pocketed a quest sheet? Thats against the rules. Rules schmules, Leo shot back, rolling his eyes. So, what do you think, boys? TTTTTT?TTTTTT Chapter 69: No more delays Gullious Cave. It was past the well and the strange flower Id picked earlier. For this venture, I wore the armor Phobe had given me. While it was a little worn, it still offered decent protection. The others had also suited up in light black armor, each piece clearly designed for mobility over defense. The sun hung low in the sky, and darkness wasnt far off. We had maybe three hours before nightfalland we had to be back in the dorms before eight. Breaking curfew wasnt exactly something I wanted added to my list of questionable decisions. Parting the bushes, we stepped into a small clearing in the forest. I still cant believe were doing this, Seker muttered, his voice a mix of nerves and disbelief. We are so breaking the rules right now. Aiden turned toward Leo, narrowing his eyes. You picked this quest up earlier, didnt you? Were you seriously planning to go alone? Leo shrugged nonchalantly, adjusting the strap on his scabbard. Yeah, I was. But when I heard about Sekers mom, I figured keeping the reward to myself would make me feel like a colossal jerk. Youre insane. Aiden shook his head, his tone half scolding, half amazed. If my dad finds out about this, hell turn me into ash and forge me into a hammer. Blacksmith problems, Leo quipped with a smirk. Now lets get moving before we run out of daylight. Aiden glanced at me as we walked. For the record, hes not always this reckle... actually, uh never mind. Hes always like this. Hmm. We began descending a slope, the city fading behind us, the old well visible to our right. For reasons I couldnt explain, I felt a spark of excitement over this. Sure, Id broken rules beforesneaking cigarettes as a kid, for onebut this? This was an entirely new level. Aidens gaze fell to the dagger on Leos belt. His brows furrowed as he exchanged a glance with Seker before asking, You brought a weapon? I thought this was supposed to be a safe job. Just in case, Leo replied without missing a beat. What if we get ambushed by elves or something? Seker hesitated, his steps slowing. You think that could happen? Maybe we should turn back. This doesnt feel right. Leo spun on his heel to face him, placing a hand on his shoulder. Hey, this is for your mom. Trust me, man. Do I look like someone whod let us walk into a death trap? Yes. Seker didnt even pause. Absolutely. The sound you just heard? That was my heart shattering into a million pieces, Leo said, clutching his chest dramatically. Enough, Aiden said, pinching the bridge of his nose. Lets just keep quiet. If theres any sign of danger, we bolt straight back to the city. Agreed? Everyone nodded, and we moved on. Aiden kept checking the map, his steps slowing every now and then to ensure we were on track. Meanwhile, I focused on the path ahead, boots squelching in the thickening mud. This wasnt something Id ever have done in my world, but I needed that gold. Desperation had a way of turning rules into suggestions. The trees grew denser with each step, their branches forming a canopy that blocked out the remaining sunlight. Dark clouds rolled in above us, signaling rain was only a matter of time. Leo glanced over his shoulder at me. Hey, Axel. Is it true the Queen threw you in the dungeon? I narrowed my eyes. Where did you hear that? Guards were talking about it. His grin was wide, almost eager. So? Did it happen? No, I replied flatly, unwilling to indulge his curiosity. She didnt.Reading on Amazon or a pirate site? This novel is from Royal Road. Support the author by reading it there. Shame. Wouldve made a killer story, he muttered. This way, Aiden announced, consulting the map again before pointing ahead. Were almost there. We entered a muddy clearing, and a chill ran through me. I recognized this spot. This was where Id found the shieldand where Id seen that elf take a mans life like it was nothing. My gaze lingered on the patch of ground for a moment too long, a knot forming in my stomach. Killing shouldnt be that easy. It wasnt right. I tore my eyes away and kept walking, trailing behind the group. Leo and Aiden led the way, Seker a few steps ahead of me. The mud clung to our boots, every step accompanied by the wet, sticky sound of suction. Ugh, Seker grumbled, lifting a boot and grimacing. I just cleaned these. This is the shortcut, Aiden said over his shoulder. Better this than wandering deeper into the forest. Leo snorted. Sekers boots have officially been sacrificed for the cause. Dont start. Maybe the real artifact was the boots we muddied along the way, Leo quipped, grinning as he kicked some mud off his heel. Ugh Seker groaned, glaring at him. Focus, Aiden urged, glancing at the darkening sky. Its almost night. Move faster, guys. Seker frowned as he trudged behind the group. Who picked the quest for you anyway, Leo? Can we even trust them? Leo waved off his concern without looking back. Relax. Nothings going to happen. Well get in, grab the artifact, and get out. Simple. Seker mumbled under his breath, his tone laced with doubt. Lets just hope he doesnt rat us out to the school and pocket the gold himself. Finally, we left the mud behind and reached another slope, this one steeper and slick from yesterdays rain. The descent was slow and cautious, every step a potential slip into the forest floor below. We gripped rocks and tree branches for support, navigating the rough terrain with careful precision. The rain had made everything harder than it needed to be. When we reached down, Aiden paused, pulling the map from his satchel. He scanned it, nodded, and let out a breath. Five minutes, he said, his voice firm. Then we move again. Leo immediately flopped onto a nearby boulder, stretching his arms. Finally. Ive really worked up a sweat. Same, Aiden admitted, leaning against a tree and wiping his forehead. Seker, meanwhile, stood with one foot propped awkwardly on a rock, inspecting his mud-caked boots with a grimace. Mud. Mud everywhere. We cant walk into the dorm looking like this. Theyll definitely know weve been out. Dont worry, Aiden said, pointing to the map. The cave entrance is underwater. That should clean you up. Underwater? Sekers head snapped up. Waiteveryone knows how to swim, right? Leo and I nodded in unison. I wasnt exactly an expert, but I knew how to stay afloat and paddle, thanks to Ada. Her dad had taught us at the beach where he worked. They used to laugh at my frog-like swimming style, but heyit worked. Satisfied with our nods, Aiden dropped the map onto the ground, pinning the corners with nearby stones to stop it from blowing away. He joined Leo on the boulder, his expression thoughtful. Do we even know what this artifact looks like? Leo shrugged, reclining slightly. Not a clue. But Im sure well know it when we see it. Leaning against a tree, I crossed my arms, staying on the edges of the conversation. Joining in wasnt really my thing. If anything, I preferred listening and fading into the backgroundit was easier that way. And it seemed to be working; no one paid me much mind. Until Leos eyes landed on me. He tilted his head, studying me as if seeing something new. You dont talk much, huh? Nah, I replied, quickly improvising. My minds just stuck on that elf attack. Still shaken up, I guess. Leo nodded, his expression softening. Makes sense. Id be the same way if Id come face to face with death. Seker glanced at me, his brow furrowed. Not to bring it up again, but I noticed something during that fight. You only cast fireball. Whys that? My lips tightened, and I shifted uncomfortably. Its because I dont know any other spells. Where Im from, magics forbiddenstrictly. I only started learning recently. Oh, Seker said, blinking in surprise. That explains it. Makes sense now. Before the conversation could go further, Aiden stood abruptly, dusting off his hands. Breaks over. Lets go. Leo groaned as he hauled himself off the boulder. Hey, you said five minutes! Its only been two. Two, fivedoesnt matter, Aiden shot back. Were close. No more delays. With a resigned sigh, Leo fell into line behind him, and we continued toward the cave, the shadows of the forest growing darker with each step. TTTTTT?TTTTTT Chapter 70: Dead as one could be I stepped closer to the edge, peering down at the sea thrashing below. Waves crashed against jagged rocks, the wind whipping water into the air. The map wasnt entirely clear, but Aiden had explained there were two entrances to Gullious Cave. One had been sealed off by an earthquake, leaving us with only this underwater tunnel. Aiden claimed wed be back at the boys dormitory in one or two hours topsunless, of course, things went off script. Not that we even had a script. According to plan was starting to sound like a bad joke, especially since none of them, except Aiden, seemed like the type to plan more than a step ahead. So, Seker asked, voice laced with hesitation, the caves right under us, yeah? Aiden dropped to a crouch, nodding as he ran his fingers over the ground. Yeah. Let me confirm something first. He closed his eyes and exhaled, placing one finger on the soil. A strange hum resonated, followed by green ripples spreading out from his hand. The waves passed through me without effect, but I stayed quiet, pretending I understood what was happening. No point in looking clueless. When Aiden opened his eyes, Leo extended a hand to help him stand. Dusting off his pants, he tucked the map into his back pocket. His calm demeanor was reassuring. No undead in the tunnels, Aiden announced. Were clear. Perfect, Leo said with a grin. Lets dive in. Ill go first, Aiden replied, rolling his shoulders. I can hold my breath longer than you guys. Ill leave markers to guide you through the tunnel. Markers? Leo tilted his head as Aiden pulled small squares of white fabric from his pocket. They bore the Queens portrait with Kinowa printed above ittorn strips from some ceremonial flag, maybe? With the cloth in hand, Aiden joined me at the edge. He glanced down at the water, studying the movement of the waves below. It was a straight drop, no slope to ease our way in. One wrong move and the current could carry us off course. Seker shuffled closer, leaning cautiously over the edge. He inhaled sharply, shaking his head. Oh, boy Were really doing this, huh? Yep, Leo chimed in, patting him on the back. We really are. Aiden went over the plan again. Ill dive in and tie these markers to the rocks underwater. Wait two minutes, then follow me down. The markers will show you the way to the entrance. Got it, Leo replied, giving him a thumbs-up. Aiden hesitated for a moment, whispering under his breath. O, Rowe, please dont take me today. Leo snorted. Hey, if youre scared, I can Ah, fuck you, Aiden cut him off with a smirk before leaping off the edge. He sliced cleanly into the water, disappearing beneath the surface. We watched the ripples spread and then vanish, leaving the oceans chaotic rhythm in their place. I stared at the waves, the enormity of what we were doing sinking in. Leo broke the silence, whistling softly. And hes gone. What an insane bastard. I feel like this is my fault, Seker muttered, eyes still fixed on the water. I shouldnt have Hey, dont start that, Leo interrupted, nudging him with an elbow. Were all in this together. No blame games. But you and Aiden, sure, I get why youre here. Seker turned to me, his expression uncertain. But, Axel, why are you even with us? For gold? The boys dorm gives you a bed and meals for two gold and five silver a month. You couldve taken some easy Guild quests and been set.Help support creative writers by finding and reading their stories on the original site. I crossed my arms, leaning back slightly. His words stung, mostly because he wasnt wrong. Id been questioning my choices a lot since getting thrown into this world. From knocking out those looters at Suzans hideout to diving headfirst into madness like thisit was all so far removed from the life I used to know. Back home, the worst injury Id dealt with was stubbing my toe. Now, I was practically lining up for trouble. I just want to see the artifact, I admitted, shrugging. Call it curiosity. Plus, Leo said it wouldnt be dangerous. If Aiden had detected undead, Id have bolted by now. Fair point, Seker muttered, shifting uneasily. Youve seen artifacts before, right? Leo interjected before I could answer, grinning. Of course he has. The guards were talking about your little magic torchthe one without fire. I pulled my phone from my pocket, switching the flashlight on and off. This? Leos eyes widened. Yeah, that! How does it work? With electricity? I said, hesitant. His grin grew wider. Oh, so you cast some sort of lightning spell and Guys, Seker interrupted, looking at the water below. Should we dive now? Its been two minutes. What do we do? Youre right, Leo said, straightening up. Ill go first, check if Aiden left the markers. Okay. Seker nodded, biting his lip. Be careful. Leo cracked his knuckles, shaking out his arms. Alright, here goes nothing. Dont die, Seker muttered nervously. Leo laughed. Thats the plan. There! Weve got them! The shout came from the forest, then, an arrow whistled past my ear, embedding itself into a tree. My instincts kicked in, and I threw myself behind a thick trunk. Seker froze like a statue, wide-eyed, until Leo yanked him behind a nearby boulder. He couldve jumped straight into the water to escapehe was closerbut instead, he chose to drag Seker to safety. Arrows rained down, their dull thuds echoing as they struck trees and rocks. The rustling of bushes and hurried footsteps grew louder, closer. Leo gritted his teeth, his hand darting to the dagger at his waist. This is bad, he hissed. Seker leaned against the boulder, his breaths coming in quick, shallow bursts. This is my fault, he stammered. Oh gods, this is all my fault! An ambush. Leo said. Fuck. Those cunts like that post quests on the Guild, then follow whoever picks up the quest. And they rob em but these fucks are trying to kill us! Oh, gods. Were were Seker muttered. Shut it! Leo snapped. He turned to me, eyes sharp. Axel, Ive got a plan. I nodded, trying to steady my breathing. What is it? You do that crazy fireball spell of yours. Blast them. Then we jump into the water and head for the cave. Got it. I stayed low, closing my eyes and focusing on the spell. Warmth began to build in my palm, the familiar heat of mana pooling and expanding. Not yet. I needed more. I poured everything I had into it, ignoring the strain creeping through my body. Fifty gold! a gruff voice shouted from the trees. Who could resist such an offer? Idiots! Youre all idiots! Let us go! Leo called out, his voice laced with defiance. Or well fight back! Shiver me timbers! The voice broke into laughter. Oh no, the kids are going to fight back! Stop, youre killing me! We dont even have gold! Seker yelled, desperation thick in his voice. What do you want from us? Oh, were just hungry, the man replied mockingly. Suzans Tavern closed! Now we have to hunt for food ourselves! Axel, Leo whispered. Now! I stood, unleashing the fireball into the clearing ahead. Flames erupted, the blast tearing through the air with a deafening roar. Chaos followedshouts, the sound of trees snapping, and the crackle of fire. Go! Leo yelled. Seker and Leo dove off the edge into the water below. I took a deep breath, sprinting after them. One stepthen anotherthen I felt the sharp, searing pain. An arrow pierced my throat. I didnt even have time to process it. My body went cold, numb. My legs gave out, and I fell forward, gravity pulling me into the water. The world tilted as I hit the surface, the current dragging me toward the cave. I was dead. Dead as one could be with an arrow through the throat and my blood mixing with the rushing tide. Chapter 71: Another way out =================== NOTIFICATION =================== * Location Discovered: Gullious Cave * Map Updated! -------------------------------- + XP Gained: 5 -------------------------------- | Current XP: 100 / 100 -------------------------------- | Progress: ========================= =================== | You have reached Level 4! =================== | New Skill: Ice barrier =================== | HP, STA & MP Restored =================== | Available Ability Points: 3 =================== I opened my eyes, realizing I was still underwater, the current pulling me relentlessly. Panic surged as I screamed, bubbles rushing from my mouth, and I clawed at a rock to anchor myself, but my grip slipped. The water dragged me further. My back slammed into something solidI couldnt tell what, too overwhelmed to thinkand I flailed, desperate to surface. But I couldnt. The caves low ceiling blocked any chance to break through for air. To my right, I spotted one of Aidens markersa piece of white fabric fluttering in the current. Gritting my teeth, I swam toward it, though the currents force and my disorientation made every stroke feel futile. An arrow. I remembered an arrow going clean through my skull, exiting my throat. I shouldve been dead. But I wasnt. Somehow, I was alive. However, if I didnt get air soon, this time thered be no miraculous reprieve. I gripped another rock and yanked myself forward, inching closer to the fabric. My vision dimmed, narrowing to the marker ahead, my singular focus. I grabbed another handhold, planted my feet, and pushed off toward the next piece of fabric. Almost there. But my fingers slipped on a loose boulder. It dislodged, and the current swept me away, undoing all my progress. Turning back, I saw a shadow in the watera figure swimming toward me with terrifying speed. One of the attackers. His expression was cold, predatory. No, no, no! My thoughts screamed as panic took over. He grabbed my leg, jerking me backward. His dagger gleamed in the murky water as he aimed for my chest. I lashed out, kicking him hard and wriggling free. Grabbing a small rock, I swung it at his head. Blood clouded the water, but it wasnt enough. He surged back, punching me in the face. My head spun as he locked me in a chokehold, his arm squeezing with brutal force.Unauthorized reproduction: this story has been taken without approval. Report sightings. My vision blurred, red tinging the edges. The life was being drained out of me, and I couldnt fight back. Then blood filled the water again, this time not mine. The attackers grip slackened, and his body went limp. I turned, gasping, to see Leo, his dagger buried in the mans neck. Without a word, Leo grabbed my arm and began swimming, pulling me toward the markers. Ten agonizing seconds later, just as darkness consumed my vision, we broke the surface. I gasped, choking on air, coughing and vomiting water as I clawed at the caves edge. Oh, fuck my life, I rasped between heaving breaths, collapsing against the wall. Leo hauled himself out and grabbed me, dragging me to solid ground. You good? he asked, concern sharp in his voice. I coughed again, spitting water. Ugh ogh! Agh, oh! It was a setup! Aidens voice echoed through the cave, anger and frustration laced in every word. How the hell did I not see that coming? I pushed myself upright, leaning against the rough cave wall. My chest heaved as I caught my breath. This was too close. Way too close. I shouldnt have taken this job. Shouldve stayed in the boys dormitory, safe and sound, thinking of a way back home instead of risking my life for some measly gold. Leos face darkened with fury as he stormed over to Seker. He shoved him hard, sending him sprawling to the ground. You told me he was shot dead! Leo barked. If Id listened to you, hed really be dead now! I-I saw it! Seker stammered, his voice shaking. I swear, an arrowit went through his head! I thought You fucking coward! Leo snarled. You just didnt want to risk your own neck, so you wrote him off. Thats it, isnt it? Youre better than this, man! I I mustve seen it wrong, Seker muttered, staring at the ground. Im sorry. Damn it! Aiden shouted, pacing furiously. How did I not notice the ambush? This is on me. Im an idiot! Enough! I barked, my voice cracking but firm. Nows not the time to fight. We need to figure out how to get out of this cave before more of them show up. The echoes of my voice faded into the darkness, replaced by the distant sound of rushing water. We were still in danger, and arguing wasnt going to save us. We had to think something fast. Or we were going to rot away in this cave. Im sorry, Seker muttered, stepping closer to me, his expression filled with guilt. I really thought I saw you get shot. I Im so sorry. Its okay, I replied, keeping my voice calm. An arrow was fired at me, yes. But I dodged it at the last second. I didnt know Seker looked down, rubbing the back of his neck. I feel like a jerk. I shouldve been sure. Shit. Its fine, I said again, more firmly this time. Whats done is done. As his words sank in, I stared at the ground, my thoughts racing. Seker wasnt wrongI should have died. I remembered the sharp pain, choking on my own blood, and then nothing. Yet here I was, coughing up water and breathing like my life hadnt almost ended. It had to be that translucent boxthe strange leveling-up mechanic Id stumbled upon. Somehow, when I leveled up, it mustve restored my stats, including my health. That realization sent a shiver down my spine. I was alive because of luck. Pure, absurd luck. Aiden pinched the bridge of his nose, his brow furrowed as he stood deep in thought. Leo sat nearby on the damp cave floor, his gaze fixed on the dagger in his hands. His knuckles were white, his grip tight. He looked shaken, likely grappling with the fact that hed just killed someone. I couldnt imagine what he was going through. You okay? Aiden asked Leo gently, breaking the heavy silence. What happened down there? Leo shook his head, exhaling slowly. Nothing, man. Its just He paused, his voice low. Sorry for dragging you all into this. You couldnt have known, Aiden said, his tone steady but kind. We all took the quest, knowing the risks. Its not your fault. Still Leo muttered. I thought it was legit. Thought we could make some quick gold. Instead, I He stopped, clenching his jaw. Whats done is done, Aiden said, his voice firmer now. We cant change it. What we need to do is keep moving before those bastards find the entrance. Leo sighed, nodding slowly. Youre right. Lets go. Does this cave have another way out? Lets hope so, Aiden said, already moving toward the deeper part of the cave. He glanced back at the rest of us. Come on, Axel. Seker. We need to keep moving. Now. Chapter 72: Left or right The part of the cave we were in was cramped, with two tunnels branching off in different directions. Aiden and the others had small flames flickering in their palms, casting shadows that danced along the uneven walls. I, on the other hand, stuck to my phones flashlight. Trusting myself to cast a spell in this situation wasnt an option. Luckily, the ultra-battery-saving mode kept it alive, though calling someone or using the internet was a long-lost dream. Aiden moved toward the left tunnel while Leo and Seker checked the right. I stayed back, watching their movements, unwilling to dive headfirst into another risky situation. My mind was already set: if I made it out alive, I was heading straight back to my dorm to sleep like a log and avoid quests forever. Aiden returned, his expression tense. So, left or right? Should we split up? Leo asked, half-turning to the group. That is officially the dumbest idea Ive heard in my life, Aiden shot back, raising an eyebrow. Leo smirked. Alright, man, calm down. Just tossing ideas around. More like tossing nonsense around. Aiden quipped. Alright, alright! Leo rolled his eyes, muttering something under his breath. Seker stepped forward, his voice quieter. Lets just go left. If its a dead end, we can turn back. We should mark the tunnels, Aiden suggested, running his hand along the wall. Dont want to get lost. Good call. Leo nodded. Lets move. Our group fell into formation. Aiden took the lead, Leo followed closely behind, and Seker and I stayed at the rear, his steps just ahead of mine. The tunnel was narrow, forcing us into a single file. Oddly enough, it was probably still wider than my dorm room. Maybe Liam had been rightI shouldve switched rooms after all. Leos grip on his dagger was as tight as ever. Aiden and Sekers eyes darted to every shadow ahead, scanning for any signs of movement. Seker cleared his throat, breaking the tension. So there was never an artifact, huh? Just a setup to ambush whoever took the quest? Exactly, Aiden replied, his voice laced with disdain. Evil bastards. Gods curse them. They mentioned being customers of Suzan Seker trailed off. That name rings a bell. Where have I heard it before? Probably from that psycho cannibal and her maniac mother, Leo chimed in, glancing back briefly. They ran a tavernselling dog meat and, well people. Ugh, gods, whyd you have to remind me of that? Seker groaned, his face contorting in disgust. Leo smirked, gesturing toward me with a nod. Our quiet friend here had a hand in shutting that place down. I sighed, keeping my eyes on the uneven path ahead. Word gets around fast, huh? Yeah, I ran into her. What happened? Seker asked, his curiosity evident. Long story short, she tricked me, strapped me to a table, and was ready to chop me up. By some miracle, I escaped, I explained, my tone flat. Didnt stop her myself, though. Just alerted the guards. Aiden abruptly stopped, dropping to a crouch. Quiet! he hissed, holding up a hand.This novel is published on a different platform. Support the original author by finding the official source. I immediately turned off my flashlight. The others extinguished their flames, and we pressed ourselves against the rough cave walls. The sound of footsteps echoed in the distancetwo, maybe three sets. It was hard to tell, but one thing was clear: we werent alone. Our silent decision to backtrack was cut short when another set of footsteps echoed from the left tunnel, much closer this time. Whoever it was, they were heading toward the cave entrance or somewhere else close to it. Shit, Aiden muttered, glancing down the right tunnel. Weve got no choice. We keep moving forward. Leo grimaced. Theyre already here? That means theres another entrance, Aiden whispered, his voice tight with urgency. We need to find it. And how do we do that? Leo asked, his tone sharp. This place is huge. People always said it was a labyrinth. I dont know, Aiden admitted, his jaw clenched. But we dont have a choice. Lets go. With no further debate, we pushed deeper into the tunnel. The air grew damp, and the narrow passage opened into a wider space. The walls, previously dull and gray, were alive with patches of colorvibrant mushrooms and flowers clinging to the rock, their bioluminescent glow casting an eerie light. Thorny vines snaked along every surface, breaking up the monotony of stone with bursts of green. Water dripped from the ceiling, forming scattered puddles that splashed underfoot as we moved. The tunnel eventually split into two pathsone leading forward, the other curving to the right. Faint light flickered on the walls to the right, casting long, distorted shadows. One shadow stood outa man sitting against the wall, his silhouette shifting with the flicker of a lantern. Shit, Aiden muttered, lowering his voice. He motioned toward the forward path. Lets keep going straight. Avoid as many of these guys as we can. Leo raised a hand, halting us. Wait. He pointed toward a structure barely visible in the gloom. Look at this. These arent the same people hunting us. Theyve been here before we got here. Like months ago. I followed his gaze. There, tucked into the caverns edge, was a weathered wooden structure lit by dim lanterns. The beams looked old, their edges rough and splintered, as though thrown together in haste months ago. It was hard to discern much more in the darkness, but Leo had a point. The people here werent the same as the group from earlier. Aiden frowned, staring at the ground as if weighing our options. His silence mirrored my own thoughts. Could we trust these people? Asking for help might get us out of this nightmareor it could land us in even worse trouble. Oi! a coarse voice growled from the right, cutting through the silence. Its my turn with that little slut. Its mine, another snapped back. You had her yesterday! The first mans tone turned petulant. Come on, I only lasted five minutes. Im going another round. Then go screw one of the adult elves, the second retorted. Those old hags? Theyre not even old, idiot. Theyre eighteen at most! The words hung in the air, vile and repulsive. Aiden, Leo, and Seker all froze, their faces twisting in disgust. Their expressions quickly hardened, determination setting in like a flame being fanned. Aiden leaned forward, peering down the right tunnel to check the area. When he turned back, his voice was cold and clipped. Tell me I didnt just hear that. Theyre slavers, Leo growled, his grip tightening around his dagger. Theyre taking elves. Selling themor worse. A kid? Seker asked, his voice trembling with barely contained rage. Theyve got a kid? And theyre theyre---doing stuff to her. Disgusting fucking disgusting! I took a step back, trying to inject some logic into the moment. We can report this later. Alert the guards. Were students, not soldiers. These guys are professionalswe dont stand a chance. Hells no, Leo snapped, his voice low but seething. Were not waiting. Were helping them. Now. Aiden rubbed his temple, torn. I mean most elves would kill us if they got the chance. But kids? Thats different. Thats Off-limits, Seker finished, his fists clenched. Leo looked around, his eyes blazing. Whats the plan? Because Im not walking away from this. Before anyone could answer, the second mans voice cut through the cavern again, filled with vile glee. Now wheres that little whore, huh? His shadow shifted, disappearing from the wall as he stood. The air felt electric, heavy with the weight of the decision we were about to make. Ah, fuck it. Fuck everything. Aiden said. Were saving that kid. Only that kid. Then well report this to the guards. Chapter 73: Here they come After the second man left, we turned right and spotted a narrow tunnel branching off to the side. At the end of it was a small room with a wooden table sitting squarely in the center. Aiden signaled for us to wait, scanning the space to ensure it was clear. Once satisfied, he waved us over. We stepped inside cautiously, but the room was barren. The only object of interest was the tablescarred and stained, likely from years of misuse. But as I swept my phones flashlight toward the ceiling, my stomach churned. My usual blank expression cracked, replaced by a grimace that felt foreign even to me. The sight above us was evil. Pure, unfiltered evil. Just fucking evil. Elvesten, maybe fifteenhung from the ceiling by ropes around their necks. The victims ranged in age, from small children to young adults barely older than me. Their bodies were mutilated beyond recognition. Some had organs crudely removed, with remnants still dangling from open wounds. Every one of them was stripped bare, their skin bearing horrific signs of abuseblackened eyes, torn-out teeth, missing limbs, and countless bruises. Oh, gods Seker collapsed to his knees, retching violently. Leo stood frozen, his face pale. These these mustve been the ones they couldnt sell. They butchered them for parts and then He broke off, his voice cracking. My flashlight swept lower, revealing something worse. Just two steps ahead of me lay a placenta, glistening darkly in the faint light. In the corner, piled haphazardly like discarded trash, were the bodies of newborns. Their tiny, lifeless forms had been hidden in the rooms shadows until now. Fuck this is Seker whispered, trembling. Leo placed a hand on his shoulder, his voice firm despite his shaking hands. Seker. Deep breaths. Nows not the time to break. I know I know Seker stammered, clutching his chest. Just give me a second. Before anyone could respond, the sound of a cage being rattled echoed from behind the rooms only closed door. Leo pulled Seker to his feet as we crept closer. I crouched low, peering through the keyhole. Two cages stood just beyond the door. In one, two elvesbarely older than mehuddled together, their bruised and malnourished bodies trembling. In the other, a young girl, no older than seven, stared blankly ahead. The guard kneeling in front of her cage fumbled with the key, a twisted grin spreading across his face. One hand unlocked the cage, while the other moved to unbuckle his belt. His lips curled in anticipation, and bile rose in my throat. Whats going on? Aiden whispered, his voice low and taut. I gestured for him to take a look. He crouched beside me, his eyes narrowing as he peeked through the keyhole. A deep, controlled breath escaped him as he straightened up. His jaw tightened, and he pressed his hands together. A moment later, a sword materialized in the air before him, shimmering faintly before he grasped it. Seker raised a hand and muttered an incantation. Aiden and Leos bodies glowed faintly green before the light dimmed. The tension in the air was something else. This was it, we were going in. A sound behind us broke the moment. A man stepped into the room, his eyes widening at the sight of us. Who the fu---Love what you''re reading? Discover and support the author on the platform they originally published on. Without hesitation, Leo whirled around and hurled his dagger. It struck the intruder in the leg, sending him crashing to the ground with a sharp cry. Aiden surged forward, delivering a brutal kick to the mans head. The impact knocked him unconscious, his body slumping lifelessly to the floor. Shit Seker whispered, staring at the downed guard. You almost killed him. Leo shot him a glare, his voice cold. What the hell did you think was going to happen when we burst through that door? You think were going to politely ask that bastard to stop? Get your head in the game. I I dont know, Seker muttered, glancing away. No time for this, Aiden interrupted, gripping his sword tightly. We move on my mark. Got it? Yeah, Leo said, grabbing his dagger. Aiden nodded, steadying his breath. One two three! Aiden smashed the door open with a solid kick, and Leo surged forward without hesitation. The man inside barely had time to blink before Leo drove a foot into his stomach, sending him stumbling backward. He then followed with a shove, slamming the mans head into the wall. The sickening thud echoed through the room, and a brutal punch to the face ensured he was out cold, collapsing in a heap on the ground. The commotion, however, had been loud enough to alert the others. The sound of hurried footsteps filled the adjoining room, accompanied by shouted orders. Seker darted to the door, slamming it shut just as the first men reached it. His hands fumbled with the lock, twisting it into place as heavy fists pounded on the wood from the other side. Aiden stepped toward the small cage where the little elf girl cowered. She recoiled, her back pressing hard against the metal bars. Hey. Calm down, Aiden said, trying to keep his voice steady, though his tone was more forceful than he intended. The girl whimpered, her small hands clutching her knees. Please no dont hurt me. Aiden cursed under his breath, running a hand through his hair. Were trying to help! Come on, we dont have time! Seker pushed Aiden aside with a shake of his head. Youre useless with kids. He knelt beside the cage, his movements slow. Holding his empty hands up to show he meant no harm, he gently opened the door. No Hey there, Seker said softly, offering her a reassuring smile. He shrugged off the guards bloodstained cape and draped it over her trembling form. Its okay now. No ones going to hurt you. I promise. The girl hesitated but allowed Seker to wrap her in the fabric. She clung to it, her wide eyes brimming with tears. The two adult elves in the second cage gripped the bars desperately. Please, one of them rasped. Get us out of here. Theyll kill us if you leave us behind! Help us! the other cried, her voice frantic. Theyre monsterstheyll come back for us! Seker picked up the little girl, who clung to him like a lifeline. Were getting you all out of here, he said firmly, turning to the others. Another kick rattled the door behind them, splintering the wood slightly. Aiden leaned in close to Leo, his jaw tight. Are you sure about this? Elves cant be trusted. Theyll turn on us the moment we give them the chance. Leo shot him a glare that could cut stone. What the hell is wrong with you? Were not leaving them. Not like this. Theyll stab us in the back, Aiden muttered, glancing nervously at the door. Im just saying Shut up and start helping, Leo growled. The door shuddered under another kick, nearly giving way. Crap Aiden relented with a frustrated groan. Fine! But if they betray us, Im saying I told you so, you moron! The third kick sent the door half off its hinges. Here they come! Leo called, drawing his dagger and stepping toward the door. Brace yourselves! Seker shifted his stance, positioning himself protectively in front of the girl. Get ready, boys, he muttered, his voice firm. Were not dying here right? Chapter 74: A choice Another kick slammed into the door, splintering the wood further. Leos hands trembled as he fumbled with the guards keys, struggling to find the right one. His breathing was shallow, panic overtaking him as each failed attempt pushed him to the edge. The next kick made the door shudder violently. One more would break it off its hinges entirely. My heart pounded against my ribs, fear taking over even though my face didnt show it. Regret clawed at my mindmemories of my mother, James, Ada---all threatened to slip away forever. I refused to let it end here. I tightened my grip on reality. Survive. No matter what. Even if it meant using that Void skillthe one Id earned from the strange translucent box. With a click, Leo finally freed the elves just as the door burst open, sending shards of wood flying. Guards stormed in, their armor clinking as they yelled commands. One of them flung a glowing purple spell our way, and Aiden deflected it with a sweep of his sword. Move, elves! Leo barked, throwing the cage door open into a guards face. The man crumpled with a grunt, but more were pouring inat least five, maybe more. We were cornered, hopelessly outnumbered. My hands shook as I fumbled with my menu. Desperation made my decision for me: I dumped every last point into Constitution, hoping the extra health might make a difference. +-------------------------------+ | Ability Points | | Available: 0 | +-------------------------------+ | [+]Strength: (3) | [+]Agility: (2) | [+]Intelligence: (0) | [+]Constitution: (4) +-------------------------------+ |Confirm Allocation |[Confirm] [Reset] +-------------------------------+ Level 4: Axel HP: [?] 115/140 Mana: [????????] -1/100 Stamina: [??] 100/120 Options: [Inv | Skills | Quests] Kill the bastards! a guard roared, his voice venomous. Elf-lovers! Damned elf-lovers! Idiots! Why are you helping them! They are elves! Fucking kill them! Kill all of them! The words barely registered as the chaos around me deepened. Leo wrestled with a guard near the cages, gritting his teeth as his shoulder caught a blow. Aiden faced two enemies at once, his fire shield deflecting one blade while his sword clashed with the other. Seker muttered incantations, his hands glowing faintly with unfamiliar magic this wasnt looking so good. The elves finally unlocked their chains with the guards key, their eyes glowing crimson. Without hesitation, one summoned a dagger that shimmered with an otherworldly sheena black blade with a gilded hilt. The other murmured under her breath, and the air around her pulsed. Light burst forth, blinding everyone in the room. When the glow subsided, two massive figures stood near the spellcaster. Golems. Their rocky forms towered over everyone, ruby eyes glowing ominously. Black markings began at their foreheads, spiraling down their arms like tattoos, gradually covering their bodies in dark patterns. The rest of their form had a rough, grey, stone-like texture. The elves broke their chains! someone shouted. They can cast spells! Get the boss! Panic rippled through the guards, but their numbers didnt dwindle. Instead, more swarmed in, shouting obscenities and threats.If you encounter this story on Amazon, note that it''s taken without permission from the author. Report it. We fell back behind the golems, watching as the fight went on. It seemed like they were going to hold the guards off, but not for too long. I could already see cracks appearing on their bodies. We need to move! Leo snapped, clutching his shoulder as Seker helped him stand. Now! Aiden looked grim. We cant fight our way out. His voice wavered, but he kept his blade raised. Gotta find a way out! What about the way we came in? I asked with a dull voice. Maybe those cannibals left already? What if they havent? What if theyre still there? Aiden countered. We cant risk it. Can we risk finding another entrance? I asked. Shit no. But--- The first golem collapsed in a cloud of dust, its ruby eyes dimming. The second continued to fight, swinging its massive arms with earth-shaking force, but more cracks were forming in its stony skin. Were running out of time, Seker urged, his voice tight with tension. Please dont leave me. The little girl said, holding Seker by the arm. Please. Please. No one is leaving you. He replied gently, despite the dire situation. Well escape together. Okay? Okay The remaining golem crumbled, leaving us exposed. Eight guards advanced, their weapons gleaming. The elves also stepped forward, their stances sharp. We were six against eight, but more would come, surely. These slavers were serious about their jobs if one could call this a job. I clenched my fists. Every instinct screamed that we were screwed, but giving up wasnt an option. Not like this. No. A shadow filled the doorway, and a man entered. He was even bigger than the golems, his sheer presence filling the room like a storm. The guards instantly stepped aside, parting to make way. His dark skin gleamed under the dim light, and his bald head shone as if polished. But it was his eyes that truly unnerved mesharp, experienced, and filled with a smoldering menace that could melt steel. He towered over everyone, his massive frame brushing the ceiling, easily two meters tall. His muscles rippled beneath a long coat that barely seemed capable of containing him. James had always called people like this behemoths. Guys. Seker whispered. Were done for. Yep. Leo replied. We are. We definitely are. I swallowed hard, dread curling in my stomach like a coiled snake. The others instinctively shifted, weapons drawn, bodies tense. The elf with the conjured dagger was the first to move, her crimson eyes flaring as she dashed forward with a burst of speed. Seker whispered a spell, enchanting her blade with a faint glow, but it didnt matter. The man moved impossibly fast for someone his size. He caught her wrist mid-strike, his massive hand engulfing her forearm. Without hesitation, he yanked her off the ground and hurled her back at us like she weighed nothing. We barely ducked in time. She slammed into the wall behind us with a sickening crack, her body crumpling to the ground. The wall itself bore the imprint of the impact. This was bad. Really bad. Humans helping elves, he sneered, his voice as deep and imposing as his stature. Now Ive seen everything. Aiden stepped forward, his sword gripped tightly. Youre torturing them! The Queen forbids that. If they must die, it should be quick and merciful. The man let out a dark chuckle, shaking his head. Do you know what they did when they were in power? The killing, the raping, the torture? The elves they earned this. So, what? Leo cut in, his voice steady but laced with disdain. Youre just continuing the cycle? Perpetuating the same cruelty you claim to despise? Be better. The man smirked, his expression unreadable. You can walk away from this. Leave the kid and the others. Go back to your families. Hug them. Be grateful you werent alive when the elves were in charge. You wouldnt have lasted a day under them. How can we trust you? I blurted, unsure why I even spoke. My voice wavered, the doubt clear. You cant, he replied bluntly, turning his gaze to me. But the alternative is worse. No! Leos voice rang out, cutting through the tension like a blade. Were not leaving them. Aiden glanced at the man. What about just the kid? We only take her, and we No, Leo snapped, his tone firm. Were saving all of them. Think for once! Aiden hissed. Were outnumbered, outmatched! We cant win this fight. Leo squared his shoulders, meeting the behemoths gaze with a defiant smirk. No deals. No compromises. The man shrugged off his long coat, revealing a body like a solid slab of muscle beneath his tight black shirt. He rolled his shoulders, the motion sending a ripple of power through his frame. Last chance, he said, his voice steady but brimming with finality. Walk away now, and Ill spare you the agony of whats coming. Leo chuckled, the corner of his mouth twitching into a grin. Shut it, man. The mans face darkened, his massive hands flexing. I gave you a choice. When I hang you from the ceiling, bleeding and broken, remember that I warned you. Chapter 75: Last-ditch effort The man barreled forward, his men following like a pack of wolves. Panic surged through me as I stumbled back, only to feel the cold, unforgiving wall at my back. Trapped. No escape. If I didnt fight now, this lunatic would keep his promise and hang us like trophies, just like the elves before us. The image of their limp forms haunted me, a grotesque scene that would never leave me Seker stepped forward to cast, but the mans massive hand swung out, catching him with a brutal backhand that sent him crashing to the ground. Leo lunged, but the mans bulk smashed into him, throwing him aside like a ragdoll. Then his hand lashed out, snatching Aiden by the throat. Aiden clawed at his grip, his feet kicking helplessly in the air as the giant squeezed, his face calm but his eyes full of malice. Adrenaline surged, and without thinking, I thrust my hand forward. The mana gathered instinctively, heat pooling in my palm before erupting into a fireball. It streaked through the air, slamming into the mans chest. The force knocked him and a few of his men back, scattering them across the room. Agh. Aiden muttered as he hit the ground. Crap. For a moment, there was silence. Then the mans booming laugh filled the space. Slowly, he got to his feet, dusting himself off as though Id only mildly inconvenienced him. His grin stretched wider, and he pointed a finger at me, wagging it mockingly. Youre first, kid, he growled, his voice dripping with sinister glee. I promise you that. Leave us alone! I shouted, my voice trembling despite the bravado. His grin didnt falter. And if I dont, friend? What then? Before I could answer, Leo was already moving, dagger in hand, his expression twisted with determination. He darted toward the man, aiming for his chest. But the giant sidestepped with startling speed, and one of his men clocked Leo hard across the face. Leo staggered back, blood streaming from his nose, clutching his face in pain. The elf conjurer tried to summon her golems again, the faint glow of magic beginning to build, but the light fizzled out just as quickly. She dropped to one knee, her breath ragged. I cant, she whispered, shaking her head. Im out of mana. I stepped forward. Please, let us go. We dont have to do this. The mans gaze bore into me, cold and mean. Youre right, he said, spreading his arms in mock generosity. You dont have to do this. Im already letting you walk away. All you have to do is leave. And let you keep torturing these people? Leo growled, cradling his injured arm. Youre a monster! The man chuckled, low and dark. Torture? You think theyre innocent? The same people who slaughtered and enslaved humans for generations? Im continuing a tradition, sure. But its their kind started. The elf conjurers voice cracked as she screamed, We didnt do that! Not us! The mans expression hardened. Your kind did, he hissed, his tone dripping with hate. Dont speak unless spoken to, you worthless whore. Aiden raised his hands, his voice calm but edged with urgency. Maybe theres another way. We could work something out Work something out? Leo snapped, spinning on him. With this psychopath? Are you kidding me? What the hell is wrong with you? Shut up, Leo! No, you shut up! Leos voice cracked with rage as he pointed toward the man. This is wrong, and you know it. Grow a spine! Have some guts! The man took another step forward, his sheer presence suffocating as he loomed over us. Last chance, he rumbled, his voice dangerously calm. I dont give second chances often. Walk away. Now.This story has been stolen from Royal Road. If you read it on Amazon, please report it Leo glared at him, blood dripping from his split lip. He shook his head, defiance radiating from every inch of his battered body. Go to hell. The man sighed, as if genuinely disappointed. Fine, he muttered, rolling his shoulders. Youve officially ruined second chances for me. Boys, lets end this. ================ NEW QUEST ================ Quest Title: Second chances -------------------------- Deadline: Today Objective: * Escape the cave. -------------------------- Rewards: - Experience: 25 XP - 4x Common item material ========================== [Accept] [Decline] The translucent box flickered in front of me. My hand trembled as I accepted the quest. Did I even have a choice? This was going to hurta lot. The behemoths thundering footsteps shook the ground as he charged. His enormous hand swept to the right, sending the elf flying into the wall with a sickening crack. Then, with equal brutality, he swung left, Aiden crashing into the opposite side. His speed didnt falter as he bore down on me. Before I could react, his massive frame collided with mine, driving me hard into the wall. Pain shot through my back like a lightning bolt. Desperately, I drove my elbow into his side, but it was like hitting a brick wall. Unfazed, he stood tall, gripping my throat in one hand. His other fist crashed into my chest with the force of a sledgehammer, driving the air from my lungs. The impact shattered the wall behind me, and we tumbled through to another tunnel. Dust and debris filled the air as I crumpled to the ground, coughing and gasping for breath. I told you, kid, he growled, his voice a deep rumble, youd be first. He yanked me up by my collar like I weighed nothing and slammed me into the ceiling, the impact leaving me dazed. Before I could recover, he hurled me to the ground with bone-rattling force. My cape became his next weapon as he grabbed it and flung me down the tunnel. I skidded across the rough stone, landing on a stray lantern. The flames leapt to life, licking at my clothes. Panic flared as I rolled frantically, extinguishing the fire before it could spread. But there was no time to breathe. He came barreling toward me, his knee driving into my chin like a battering ram. My head snapped back, smacking against the wall. Stars exploded in my vision as the world spun wildly. Get up, you little shit, he snarled, looming over me. N-no I croaked, my voice barely audible. He seized my collar again, his fist hammering into my face. Pain erupted with every strike until I could barely see through the blood and swelling. With a wicked grin, he grabbed my head and slammed it into the ground. Then, he planted one massive boot on my chest, his full weight pressing down. I wheezed, the air forced from my lungs, my ribs creaking under the strain. In a last-ditch effort, I raised my hand and tried to cast a fireball, but his other foot came down, pinning my arm. The spell misfired, blasting into the ground beneath us. The tunnel floor gave way. We plunged into darkness, the world tumbling in chaotic disarray. My fingers instinctively clung to his leg as we fell, and I managed a wild punch to his face before we hit the ground. I landed on top of him, the impact rattling my bones. Ugh he groaned, dazed for a moment. But I didnt wait. I kicked his head like I was punting a ball, the force snapping his head to the side. Then, summoning every ounce of mana I had, I fired a fireball into his face. He roared in agony, clawing at his burnt skin. I didnt stop. Another fireball. And another. Again and again, until my hands burned with the effort, and my vision blurred from exhaustion. How the hell are you casting so fast?! he bellowed, throwing up a glowing barrier. The next fireball ricocheted harmlessly off his spell, and I stumbled back, gasping for air. The tunnel was pitch-black, save for the flicker of flames reflecting off his barrier. The air reeked of scorched flesh, and tiny creatures scurried along the edges of the tunnel, their eyes gleaming like pinpricks in the dark. Ill kill you! he roared, his voice echoing ominously as he advanced. Desperation clawed at me. I hurled fireball after fireball, each one deflecting harmlessly off his barrier as I retreated step by step. Stay back! I shouted, my voice raw. But he kept coming, relentless and unbroken. My back hit the wall, and his enormous hands seized my wrists. He hoisted me into the air, his smirk returning despite the burns and bruises covering his body. Youll make a fine trophy, he sneered, his breath hot and reeking of blood. Trust me you will. Chapter 76: Free The man spat blood on the ground and squeezed my both wrists with brutal force. A sickening crack echoed through the tunnel, and a scream tore from my throat. Pain radiated up my arms, and I writhed helplessly in his grip. He finally released me, but only to deliver a savage headbutt to my nose. My head spun as I staggered back, blood pouring freely. My back hit the wall, and I slid down to the ground, gasping. The giant shook his head, gathering his senses while inspecting the burn marks on his arms. His face twisted into an expression of pure rage. Before he could close the distance again, Leo jumped down from the hole wed fallen through. Wasting no time, he cast a wind spell that sent the man staggering backward. Leo rushed to my side, gripping my arm and helping me to my feet. Shit, are you okay? he asked, glancing at my battered frame. No, I muttered, wincing. We we cant beat him. Yeah, no kidding Watch out! I shouted as the behemoth roared back to his feet. The man hoisted a boulder from the ground and hurled it at us. It hit Leo square in the head, sending him crumpling to the ground, unconscious. Dusting his hands off, the man began striding toward me, slow and deliberate, like a predator savoring its prey. Desperation clawed at me as I cast a fireball at the ceiling above him. The spell hit with a thunderous crash, and the rock gave way, collapsing onto him. Dust and debris clouded the air, and the ground beneath me began to tremble. The floor cracked and collapsed, and I plummeted through the opening. I managed to grab the edge of the crumbling floor at the last second, my legs dangling over the void. Below, I saw raging waters, the sea churning violently. My arms burned as I tried to pull myself up, but my battered body refused to cooperate. On my third attempt, my strength gave out, and my grip slipped. I fell. The icy water swallowed me whole, and my head struck a jagged rock beneath the surface. Blood clouded my vision as I struggled to make sense of up and down. My lungs screamed for air. Just as the water cleared slightly, a hand clamped around my ankle and yanked me downward. It was him. The giant, his face twisted in a bloody grin. We struggled underwater, limbs thrashing violently. I managed to break free with a lucky punch to his nose, but before I could escape, his hand closed around my throat. He squeezed. Argh I choked, bubbles escaping my mouth as I struggled against his iron grip. Planting both feet on his chest, I pushed off with all my strength, breaking free and swimming for the surface. I spotted light ahead, faint and flickeringthe entrance wed come through. Adrenaline fueled my strokes as I swam desperately toward it. Breaking the surface, I dragged myself onto the rocky floor, gasping for air. My wrists screamed in agony, but I forced myself to keep moving. I stumbled into the left tunnel, my vision swimming. Before I could get far, he caught up to me. His massive hand grabbed a fistful of my hair, yanking me backward. My head slammed against the cave wall. He didnt stop there, grinding my face against the rough surface like he was scrubbing a stain. Sharp pebbles bit into my skin, drawing fresh streams of blood. Youre skilled, he muttered, his voice low and menacing. Ill give you that. He shoved me to the ground, his boot pressing down on my chest before he mounted me. His knees pinned my arms to the floor, leaving me defenseless as he rained punches on my face. Each blow sent shockwaves through my skull, and my strength began to wane.The narrative has been illicitly obtained; should you discover it on Amazon, report the violation. Summoning my remaining energy, I pointed my hand upward and cast a fireball. The spell struck the ceiling, dislodging a massive chunk of rock. It fell directly onto the giants head, knocking him off me. I didnt wait to see the aftermath. My eyes locked onto a ladder extending upward through the hole my spell opened, its top disappearing into the faint glow of light. Hope flared in my chest. It was just within jumping reach. Shit. Shit I muttered, scrambling onto the boulder that had fallen onto him. I jumped, my fingers catching the ladders cold metal rungs. I began climbing, each movement a battle against my battered body. Halfway up, I heard him. The unmistakable sound of grunting and metal clanging as he started to climb the ladder after me. He was faster, his sheer size making each ascent seem effortless. When he reached me, he grabbed my leg and yanked hard. My grip on the ladder held firm, but barely. I kicked at his face with frantic desperation. Let me go! I shouted. I already let you go once! he roared back. But you refused! The ladder was affixed to the cave wall by metal brackets on one side, holding it in place. However, the bolts creaked under our combined weight and struggle. I kicked him again, harder this time. The upper bracket gave way with a loud snap, and the ladder tilted to the left. We slammed into the opposite wall, the lower bracket barely keeping the ladder from toppling completely. I clung to the swaying ladder, my knuckles white, praying the remaining bracket would hold. The man below me cursed, his grip tightening as he tried to steady himself. The entire structure groaned ominously. Axel! Aidens voice echoed below. Where the hell is he? Help! I screamed, my voice raw. Im here! Through the haze of pain and exhaustion, I saw Aiden and Seker appear below us, peering through the hole. They were battered, their clothes torn and bloodied. Aiden had a gash across his forehead, but it wasnt deep. Seker, however, had a nasty wound on his chest, the blood seeping through his tunic. He looked pale and unsteady, clearly losing blood. Aidens eyes flicked up to the ladder, his expression sharpening. Thinking quickly, he cast a spell Id never seen before. A black, whip-like tendril shot upward, lashing onto the giants leg with a sharp snap. Aiden then tied the dark tendril to the hilt of his sword, anchoring it. He planted his feet firmly and began to pull with all his strength. The giant snarled, tightening his grip on my leg as he struggled against the force pulling him downward. The strain was agonizing, and I kicked at him desperately. For five seconds that felt like eternity, the giant held on. Then, finally, his fingers slipped. His eyes widened as he fell, plummeting down. The sickening sound of impact filled the tunnel as he struck the boulder below, his neck snapping violently. The fight was over. Ah, shit. Fuck, I muttered, trembling as I clung to the precarious ladder. Aiden froze, staring down at the body. His hands shook as he whispered, I I killed someone. Seker snapped his head away from the scene, his face pale. Go up! We found another exit! he shouted, his voice strained with urgency. O-okay. But before I could climb further, the ladder groaned and gave way entirely, tearing free from the remaining hinge. My stomach lurched as the world seemed to fall with me. Instinct took over. I leaned my back against the right wall, my hands pressing firmly against the rough stone. My legs pushed against the left wall, supporting my weight. With a sharp breath, I pushed off the left wall, my legs trembling as I forced myself upward, inch by inch. The stone scraped against my back, but my hands stayed anchored to the right, helping me climb higher. I gritted my teeth, focusing on each push, each shift, as I fought to pull myself up. Come on, I whispered through gritted teeth. Come on. Sweat and rain mixed with blood as I worked my way up. My hands strained with each push, but I didnt let go. Slowly, painfully, I climbed the narrow space, dragging my legs higher with each movement. After what felt like an eternity, I reached the opening. Daylight streamed down, and I hauled myself up with the last of my strength. Gasping for air, I collapsed onto solid ground. I realized I was inside the hollow trunk of an enormous tree. The wood smelled damp and earthy, and faint beams of light filtered through cracks in the bark. With a groan, I kicked at a loose section of the trunk, forcing it open. Rain poured in as I crawled outside, the downpour washing the blood and grime from my battered body. I fell to my knees, my chest heaving. Oh, fuck, I muttered, my voice barely a whisper. Im alive. The storm raged on, but for the first time in what felt like forever, I felt free. Chapter 77: Could鈥檝e been worse =================== NOTIFICATION =================== * Quest Completed: Second chances -------------------------------- + XP Gained: 25 + 4x Common item material -------------------------------- | Current XP: 25 / 100 -------------------------------- | Progress: ???????????? ========================= After two minutes of lying in the mud, I saw Aiden and Seker emerge from the forest, trudging toward me. Seker had the little elf walking beside her. The girl moved hesitantly, her small steps timid. She clutched her shoulder, where a bandage covered a wound that didnt look as severe as the rest of ours. We were all in shambles, our injuries weighing heavily. My body refused to cooperateI couldnt even summon the strength to sit up. All I could do was stare at the darkening sky, the rain mingling with the dirt on my face. How long had we been trapped in that cave? Aidens expression tightened as he got closer. His eyes darted around, scanning the area, his movements tense. Seker trailed behind him, his steps slow and heavy. He shook his head, muttering under his breath, his face clouded with unease. Finally, Aiden stopped in front of me, looming over my crumpled form. Axel, he demanded, his voice taut. Wheres Leo? I exhaled slowly, my gaze still fixed on the sky. Down in the caves, I rasped. Seker grimaced, running a hand over his bloodied chest. The cannibals overran the tunnels. We barely slipped through. His tone wavered. Leo didnt make it out? I closed my eyes briefly, exhaustion overwhelming me. No. That man knocked him out. Hes still down there. Aiden clenched his fists. We have to go back. If we dont Movement in the distance cut him off. Two familiar figures emerged from the forest, supporting someone between them. Aiden and Seker froze, their faces lighting up as recognition dawned. The elves had returned, both of them carrying Leo by the arms. They moved slowly, steadying him with each step. He looked battered, but alive. The elves wore shirts that likely belonged to the guards, large enough to cover their private parts, though it seemed they hadnt had time to find pants.They stopped a few paces away, their sharp eyes locking onto Aiden with disdain. Wordlessly, they eased Leo to the ground and disappeared back into the forest. They helped him, Aiden muttered, disbelief softening his voice. They returned the favor, Seker replied, watching the elves vanish. Guess freeing them paid off. Aiden hurried forward, limping as he reached Leo. Are you okay? His words spilled out, relief laced with worry. Leo groaned but managed to sit up. Yeah Im alive, he said hoarsely. They even healed me a bit. Lucky break, huh?If you come across this story on Amazon, it''s taken without permission from the author. Report it. Thank you, sir, the little elf said. For helping us. No problem, kid, Leo replied. Do you have a place to stay? Y-yes, she stammered. But I cant tell you, sir. The village elder doesnt like when humans I understand, he said, cutting her off gently. You dont want us there. So can you get back to your village on your own? Yes, she nodded, stepping in front of us and bowing her head. Thank you. Aiden looked away, his face unreadable, while Seker and Leo smiled warmly at her. She bowed once more, her expression softening with a smile, before she turned and disappeared into the forest. Her bare feet splashed in the mud as she walked, vanishing into the dense trees. At least we got all the prisoners alive. That was something. I forced myself to sit, closing my eyes to stop the world from spinning. Then, with slow, shaky steps, I joined the group, each movement a fresh wave of pain. My torn clothes hung on me in tatters, offering no protection against the cold rain. I leaned against a nearby tree, my shoulder throbbing as I pressed a hand to it. For a moment, my eyes met Leos. I gave him a noda quiet thanks for what hed done back there. He returned it, his face tired but resolute, before turning to the others. Well, he said with a faint smirk. Couldve been worse, right? Fuck you and your quests, Aiden snapped as he dropped heavily to the ground, his exhaustion finally catching up to him. Next time you come up with some idiotic plan like this, Ill pretend you dont exist. For real, Seker muttered, his voice flat. Were lucky we even made it out. Aiden rubbed his temples. And since we didnt complete the quest, no free healing for us. Seker huffed. As if wed get free treatment. The quest was picked by someone else. We wouldnt have gotten the free healing anyways. Ah, good point. The forest around us grew darker, the rain still falling in steady sheets. I shifted against the tree, wincing as another jolt of pain ran through my body. We need to move, I said finally, breaking the silence. Its getting dark. Seker glanced around, his brow furrowed. Where even are we? This place doesnt look familiar. As if in response to my thoughts, a faint yellow mark began to pulse on the ground in front of us, pointing the way toward Kinowa. I let out a sigh, grimacing as I pushed off the tree. I know the way, I said, gesturing to the path. Follow me. TTTTTT?TTTTTT Emerging from the forest, I let out a weary sigh, dragging a hand down my face to wipe away the furrow in my brow. To our right, the tavern with the schools crest still glowed warmly, its windows casting light onto the damp street. We still had about half an hour before curfew, so wed made it back just in time. All we needed now was to find a vailhouse, heal our wounds, and put this wretched day behind us. The smell of food wafting from the tavern hit like a punch, sharp and enticing. I caught Seker, Leo, and Aiden sniffing the air, their steps faltering slightly as if the aroma might reel them in. But healing came firstdinner could wait. Man, I could eat a dragon, Leo muttered, clutching his stomach as we pressed forward. The gates loomed ahead, and the guards standing watch gave us a look that said theyd already written a dozen questions in their heads. One of them stepped forward, raising a hand to stop us. His sharp eyes roamed over our ragged clothes and bloodied forms. Whats this about---is it elves? His voice was firm, almost accusing. Whereve you been causing trouble? Leo stepped forward, shaking his head. Not elves. Cannibals. His tone was steady but tired. We barely made it out alive. The guards eyes narrowed. Cannibals? They ambushed us, Aiden added, doing his best to straighten his posture. We were just out for a walk. He stumbled over the words, careful to avoid the truth. The guards expression darkened as understanding flickered across his face. Gods, he muttered. Suzans customers I take it, huh? Guess they got hungry and turned on you. Aiden nodded quickly, seizing the explanation without hesitation. Exactly. Can we go? We need to hit a vailhouse before anything else. The guard paused, his gaze lingering on our wounds before stepping aside with a curt wave. Yeah, go on through. Without another word, we shuffled past him, our battered group dragging tired feet into the city streets. The smell of the taverns food lingered, tantalizing and cruel, but none of us dared pause. Healing was all that mattered now. TTTTTT?TTTTTT Chapter 78: Expensive And with that, I was officially brokejust one gold to my name. Leaving the vailhouse, I noticed Aiden and the others waiting under a tree nearby. Their wounds were fully healed, just like mine, though I still felt a faint ache here and there. The rain continued to fall, pattering softly against the thick branches above them, offering some shelter from the downpour. I glanced at my stats. Level 4: Axel HP: [] 140/140 Mana: [???????????] -1/100 Stamina: [??] 95/120 Options: [Inv | Skills | Quests] You good? Aiden asked, stepping forward. Yeah, I replied, stretching slightly. Just bummed about the two gold they took from me. Daylight robbery, huh? Leo crossed his arms with a scoff. But what choice do we have? Anyway, should we head back to the dorms? I shook my head. You guys go ahead. I need to figure some things out first. Alright, Seker said with a small wave. Goodnight, Axel. Take care, I murmured. We parted ways, the others disappearing down the street while I wandered in the opposite direction. My hood was pulled low against the rain, my hands shoved into my pockets. The streets were nearly deserted, save for a few market stalls clinging to the last moments before curfew. Stray dogs nosed through puddles, and homeless folk huddled under awnings for warmth. The night felt calm but heavy. I needed to earn some gold. With only one piece left, I wouldnt make next months payment at the dorms. The Guild was my next stepbut that was a problem for tomorrow. For now, I just wanted to sleep and end this miserable day. At the end of the street, I noticed a tailors shop still open. The owner was tidying up, preparing to close for the night. The small shop looked more like a house, with an open door revealing an L-shaped counter and, further in, a modest bedroom with a wardrobe crammed beside the bed. My tattered clothes desperately needed attention. Stepping inside, I cleared my throat. Excuse me. Could you Were closing, the man interrupted without looking up. But when his eyes landed on me, he froze. By the gods, what happened to you? Long story, I replied tersely. Can you fix my clothes? Sure. Thatll be a gold. Can we do five silver? I countered, wincing. Im kind of broke right now. Eight. Seven? Eight, he repeated firmly. I dont usually give discounts, kid. I sighed. Fine. Eight. Leave your clothes here, he instructed, jotting something down in a notebook. Pick them up in the morning. Name? Axel Millo. He repeated it under his breath as he wrote. Got it. I hesitated, glancing at my ruined outfit. Uh I dont have any backup clothes right now. The man raised an eyebrow. "Wear those. My boy found them in the dirt outside the city walls." I glanced at where he was pointing, my eyes widening slightly. It was my original school uniform, the one I lost while picking that strange flower. I had completely forgotten I dropped it there. It looked worse than the clothes I was wearing, but it was better than going into the boys'' dormitory naked. If you encounter this tale on Amazon, note that it''s taken without the author''s consent. Report it. I changed into my original uniform at the corner and placed my clothes and armor on the counter along with the one gold. The man took them and handed me two silver as change. "Like I said," the man added, "come back in the morning." "Right," I replied. "Goodnight." "You too, kid." With that settled, I stepped back out into the rain and made my way toward the boys dormitory. Even though insomnia usually had me tossing and turning, I could feel exhaustion sinking in, weighing my eyelids down. By the time my head hit the pillow, I knew Id be out cold. TTTTTT?TTTTTT I woke up drenched in cold sweat, my breath shallow as my eyes locked onto the ceiling of the small, dim room. A nightmareI knew Id had onebut the details were already gone, leaving only a sinking feeling in my chest. Exhaling deeply, I rubbed the sweat from my face and swung my legs over the side of the stiff, uncomfortable bed. Rising, I shuffled to the window, pushing back the stray strands of hair obscuring my view. The rising sun painted the street below in soft, muted colors as the townsfolk began their day. Sitting back on the edge of the bed, my eyes unfocused on the wall, a single thought bounced relentlessly in my head: escape this world and go home. I have to. Ugh I slipped into my school uniform, the fabric rough against my skin, and stepped out of the room. A few early risers lounged in the common area, mugs of steaming coffee in their hands as they chatted quietly and gazed at the rain outside. The warmth of the hall was the opposite to the dreary weather. Descending the stairs, I exited the dormitory into the crisp, rainy morning, the chill waking me further. The sound of the door opening behind me caught my attention. Turning slightly, I saw Seker stepping out, looking half-awake. The dark circles under his eyes made it clear he hadnt slept much. Oh, youre up early, he muttered, suppressing a yawn as he ran a hand through his hair. Yeah, I replied, adjusting my collar. Heading to the tailor shop to pick up my clothes. Right, from yesterday. He rubbed his neck awkwardly. That whole mess I need to get my armor fixed too. Mind if I tag along? My moms house is on the way. I shrugged. Sure. But if youve got a house, why stay at the dorm? His expression tightened as he began walking. Its... complicated. And a long story. You dont have to explain if its personal. Seker hesitated, then sighed. Her, uh, well---you know, boyfriend. We dont get along. At all. Got it. I nodded, following his lead. He glanced over, clearly eager to shift the topic. Did you sleep alright? Because I couldnt. Neither could Aiden. I did, surprisingly. My thoughts flickered to Aiden. Hows he holding up? He was pretty shaken after what happened. Seker frowned, his gaze lowering to the wet cobblestones. Not great. Taking a life thats not something you just get over. No, its not, I agreed softly. But he saved me. Thats something. He did. Seker nodded firmly. We walked in silence for a moment before I asked, How long have you known each other? Sixteen years. A hint of a smile tugged at his lips. Aiden, Leo, and I grew up together. We were neighbors. Hmm, I acknowledged, the rain filling the quiet space between us. What about you? he asked cautiously. Did you have any friends back in your village? A few, I lied, my voice steady. They didnt make it. I was the only survivor. His face fell. Damn Im sorry. I shouldnt have asked. Its fine. Ive moved past it, I assured him, brushing it off. He nodded slowly, though the guilt lingered in his eyes. I still cant believe goblins were that close. Im sorry for what you went through. Hmm, I muttered, not wanting to linger on the subject. The rain continued its steady rhythm as we walked, our boots splashing through shallow puddles. The cold air bit at my skin, but I barely noticed; this kind of weather was nothing new to me. After a stretch of quiet, Seker broke the silence. So can you maybe reconsider joining the tournament with us? I arched an eyebrow. You know Im in F-class, right? Youd want someone better than me. I saw what you did to that forest. He shot me a knowing look. Theres something different about you. I dont know what it is, and you dont have to tell me. But everyone has their secrets, which is totally okay. You want to win the tournament for your mom, right? I asked, steering the conversation. His jaw tightened, and he nodded. Yeah. If I win, I can cure her for good. Whats she sick with? We dont know, he admitted, his steps slowing. But one of Harus followersa priestess, maybecan bless her. That blessing can heal anyone, even someone on deaths doorstep. Haru Goddess of Beauty. I muttered. And I take it thats expensive. Ridiculously. He gestured ahead. Thats the tailor shop. Ill wait out here for you. I glanced at him briefly and nodded. Alright. Be back in a minute. Seker leaned against a nearby post, the rain dripping from the edge of his hood as I pushed open the shop door. Chapter 79: Dig in The tailor looked up briefly as I entered, his focus quickly returning to the rich, dark cape in his hands. A small hole marred its left side, likely from an arrow. With careful precision, he threaded the needle, his glasses slipping to the edge of his nose as his sharp eyes honed in on the fabric. I approached the counter and noticed my clothes hanging neatly on a wooden hanger next to him. They looked completely refreshedevery tear and fray gone, like theyd never been damaged in the first place. The man had clearly done good work. Morning, I greeted, nodding toward the clothes. Im here for mine. Thats them, right? He gave a slight nod without looking up. Yeah. Didnt think youd be this early. Just finished them a couple of minutes ago. Hmm. I reached for the hanger, inspecting the repair. Thanks. You did a great job. Dont mention it, kid. Have a good one. You too. With my freshly mended gear Phobe had given me in hand, I stepped out into the cool morning air. The rain had eased into a light drizzle, leaving the streets slick and reflective. For a moment, I considered stashing everything in my inventory, but I hesitated. Until I knew how common or unusual such magic was here, it seemed smarter to avoid drawing attention. Seker was standing a short distance away, his back to me. He seemed absorbed in something happening further down the street. As I approached, I saw two men shouting at each other while a guard struggled to break them apart. One of them had a split lip, and a toppled market stall lay in ruins beside him. Youre back, Seker said, glancing over his shoulder. Didnt even hear you. Whats going on over there? I asked, nodding toward the commotion. The guy with the busted lip got accused of being a cannibal, Seker explained grimly. Apparently, he was a regular at Suzans tavern. But hes denying it. He probably didnt even know they were serving human meat. I said with a dull voice. Yeah still, disgusting. I cant imagine it. Glad I never stepped foot in that place. Hmm, I murmured, trying not to think about it. Seker shook off his disgust and turned back to me. So, whats your plan now? Ill drop these back in my room and head to school. He hesitated, then asked, Wanna tag along for a bit? My moms house is just around the corner. Im not great with parents. Thanks for the offer, though. Come on, man. He groaned, shifting uncomfortably. I dont want to go there alone. Just come with me. I sighed, sensing he wasnt going to let this go. Fine. Lead the way. Youre a legend, he said, visibly relieved. Lets go. We walked past the tailor shop and turned a corner. Rows of quaint houses lined the narrow street, their cobblestone facades giving the area a rustic charm. The road itself was just wide enough for two carriages to pass. Randomly placed trees punctuated the scene, their branches stretching across rooftops or hanging low over the path.If you stumble upon this narrative on Amazon, be aware that it has been stolen from Royal Road. Please report it. As someone used to the sprawling urban chaos of my worldtowering concrete buildings and endless pavementthis kind of peaceful, organic layout was almost foreign to me. I couldnt even remember the last time Id seen a tree back home. Hey, I said, breaking the silence. Do you guys have anything like an inventory spell? A way to stash stuff magically? Seker gave me a confused look. You mean, like a magical bag? Never heard of anything like that. Hmm. Gotcha, I replied, keeping my tone neutral. After another minute of walking, Seker came to a stop in front of a modest house. Its wooden shutters were closed, but the light from inside gave it a warm, inviting glow. Someone was definitely inside, because the shadows on the curtains were moving. This is the place, he said, his voice low. Excited? I asked, my tone monotone. He shook his head. Nah. I just dont want to see that mans face. But but I have to. For my mom. Lets get this over with, then. He nodded, straightened his posture, and knocked on the door. Right We stepped back a little and waited, watching as the shadow on the curtain shifted before disappearing entirely. The sound of uneven footsteps followedslow and uneven, with pauses between every couple of steps. Whoever was inside moved carefully, almost hesitantly. The door creaked open, revealing a frail-looking woman. Her short gray hair framed a kind face, and her large brown eyes sparkled with warmth despite the weariness they carried. Sekers mother couldnt have been more than fifty, but her movements were unsteady. Her expression brightened immediately when she saw her son, and she pulled the door open fully. Seker! she exclaimed, stepping forward for a hug. Her voice was soft but filled with delight. I didnt expect you this early! Hey, Mom, Seker replied, wrapping his arms around her gently. How are you feeling? Im good, Im good, she said, pulling back slightly to look him over. And you? You look well. Im alright, he said with a small smile before gesturing toward me. Mom, this is my friend Axel. Axel, my mom, Helena. Hello, maam, I said with a polite nod. Oh, hello, Axel, she said warmly, her eyes briefly scanning me. Well, dont just stand there, boys. Come inside. I just set the table for breakfast. Uh, actually, we were just going to Seker started, rubbing the back of his neck. Nonsense, Helena interrupted, her tone firm but gentle. Youre not leaving without eating first. Come on in. He sighed, giving me an apologetic look. You hungry, Axel? Not really, I said, shifting the bundle of clothes in my arms. I should take these back to my room before they get soaked. Ah, hes just being shy, Seker teased, grabbing my arm and pulling me inside despite my protests. Youre eating, too. The house was modest and cozy. The kitchen was at the back, its white-tiled floor contrasting with the dark brown tiles covering the rest of the space. To the left was a small but inviting living room, and to the right stood a rectangular dining table near a window. Plates of food were already laid outfresh tomatoes, cheese, bread, and vegetables, with a small bowl of steaming boiled eggs in the center. Sit, boys, Helena said, heading toward the cabinets. Ill grab a couple more plates. Ive got it, Seker said quickly, moving to the kitchen. You sit down, Mom. Ill take care of it. She gave him a grateful smile and sank into the chair at the head of the table. Such a sweet boy, she murmured before turning her attention to me. So, Axel, are you staying in the boys dormitory or do you live with your parents? Boys dormitory, maam, I replied, sitting down on one of the empty chairs. With Seker, Leo, and Aiden? No, I explained. I have my own room. Its small, but it works for me. Oh, I see, she said, her tone curious but kind. And your parents? Do they live nearby? I hesitated briefly. They passed away a long time ago, I lied. I live on my own. Her expression softened, and she leaned forward slightly. Im so sorry to hear that. Its alright, I said, my voice steady. Alright, plates are here, Seker announced, returning with two in hand. He placed them on the table and grinned. Lets eat. Helenas eyes sparkled as she began passing the food around. Well, then, she said with a smile, dig in, boys. Its not much, but I hope its enough. Chapter 80: Cute cat I mirrored Sekers movements, reaching for a fork and taking a small bite of the tomato on my plate. The bread caught my attentionit looked freshly baked, with small black olives scattered throughout. As I shifted my position to reach it, my foot accidentally brushed against something soft beneath the table. Leaning forward, I glanced down and spotted a cat curled up, sleeping peacefully. Seker noticed my reaction and grinned. Hang on, he said, bending down. He gently scooped up the drowsy feline and placed it on an empty chair beside him. The cat barely stirred, stretching once before settling back into its slumber as if nothing had happened. Cute cat. I said. Hes the same age as me, Seker commented, gesturing toward the cat with a fond smile. An old fart. Helena chuckled softly, shaking her head. If sixteen counts as an old fart, then Im ancient. The exchange drew a faint smile from Seker, but Helenas gaze eventually settled on me. Her eyes lingered, studying my expressionless face. It wasnt the first time someone had been caught off guard by my demeanor. She seemed to catch herself after a moment, clearing her throat as she scooped some cheese onto her plate. I pretended not to notice her scrutiny, grabbing a slice of olive bread. As I bit into it, the rich, earthy flavor made me pause. I had to admitit was good. Swallowing, I glanced at my empty plate before lifting my gaze to meet hers. Socializing wasnt exactly my strong suit, but I could sense the awkwardness hanging in the air. I needed to say something. This is really good, I said finally. Thank you. Baked it myself, Helena replied with a small smile. Even the olives are from my garden. Hmm, I murmured in response, taking another bite. So, Seker began with a rhythmic tapping of his fingers on his knee, hows the medicine situation, Mom? Helenas expression faltered, her smile fading as she busied herself rearranging the food on her plate. Im managing it, she replied carefully. Lets not talk about that in front of your friend. Seker ignored her hesitation, his tone sharpening. You had fifteen gold, right? Did that good-for-nothing boyfriend of yours manage to sell anything? How much do you have now? Helenas posture stiffened, and she raised a hand as if to stop him. Seker, she said firmly, this isnt Just tell me, he interrupted, leaning forward. Axel doesnt care. Right, Axel? I stayed quiet, glancing between them. This was awkward. Helena sighed, brushing a strand of gray hair behind her ear. Its complicated, she muttered. Complicated how? Seker pressed, his frustration evident. How much do you have? She hesitated, her hands folding tightly in her lap. Jun Jun lost the gold, she admitted, her voice barely above a whisper. Seker froze, his jaw tightening. Even the cat perked up, opening one sleepy eye as if sensing the tension. Lost it? Seker repeated, his voice rising slightly. How? Where did he drop it? How can he just drop fifteen gold? Is he an idiot? Helena shifted uncomfortably, leaning back in her chair as she avoided his gaze. He didnt drop it, she corrected reluctantly. He gambled it away. The words hung in the air like a lead weight. Sekers eyes widened as he processed what shed said. Slowly, he exhaled, closing his eyes for a moment before opening them again, now brimming with barely-contained fury.Enjoying this book? Seek out the original to ensure the author gets credit. Helena shrank into her chair, her hands clasped tightly together. I didnt want to upset you, she whispered. Sekers fists clenched at his sides, his shoulders rising and falling with each breath. He was trying to rein in his anger, but it was clear he was on the verge of losing control. Sitting there, I couldnt help but feel out of place. My original plan had been to grab my clothes and head back to my roomnot to get caught up in a family argument over breakfast. I shifted uncomfortably, unsure of whether to intervene or stay silent. This was getting weirder by the second so I just took another bite from the bread, trying to ignore them. Gamble. He leaned forward, his hands pressing against the edge of the table. I worked so hard for that gold, Mother. Do you have any idea how many quests I picked up for it? And now that bastard just Pof. Gone. Just like that? Helena rubbed her temples, her shoulders slumping. He was sorry about it, she explained quietly. Im sure he can sell something and And what? Seker cut her off, throwing his hands into the air. So he can gamble again? You know what hes like! Hes a deadbeat idiot, Mom! He cant even be a man, let alone your husband! Helenas expression hardened, and she straightened her posture. What do you expect me to do, Seker? she asked, her tone defensive. Im sick. I cant work. And you have school. I need him. I need the gold to If you need gold, kick him out, Seker snapped, his voice trembling as he tried to calm himself. He drew in a sharp breath, exhaling slowly. Its that simple. And who would look after me? Helena shot back, her voice softening but no less firm. You? I wont allow it. Im your mother, Seker. Im supposed to take care of you, not the other way around. Sekers hands curled into fists, his nails digging into his palms. Ill win that tournament, he declared, his voice filled with conviction. Last year, we lost, but this time its different. Well win, and then you can kick that idiot out. Well use the prize to cure you. Helenas head tilted slightly, her eyes full of doubt. Youre in C-class. Aiden and Leo, too. You know this isnt something you can just win, honey. Its not that simple. We need to face reality. She glanced at me, then back at her son. Now come on, youre embarrassing me in front of your friend. Lets eat and Were late to class, Seker interrupted, rising abruptly from his chair. His voice was tight, masking the obvious lie. I think we should leave, Axel. I pushed my chair back, standing as well. Everything was perfect, maam. Thank you, I said, trying to smooth over the tension. Helena opened her mouth, but no words came out. Her gaze followed us as we walked to the door. I grabbed my clothes from the nearby chair, nodding politely before stepping outside. Seker slammed the door shut behind us, his frustration spilling over as he kicked a tree trunk. The branches rustled, leaves falling softly to the ground. He ran a hand through his hair, shaking his head. I never thought a boy like him would get mad. He seemed calm and calculated on the outside. I He started but stopped, exhaling deeply. Im sorry, Axel. This isnt how I wanted breakfast to go. Its okay, I replied, my tone even. Just wish there was something I could do. Only the gods can help us now, he muttered bitterly. That bastard lost the last bit of gold my mom had. Now how is she supposed to buy her medicine? Cant you go talk to what was his name? Jun? Id rather not see his ugly face. Seker said. Ugh Ill have to figure something out. I have to. You and your friends could pick up quests from The Guild, I suggested, watching his tense movements. Maybe theyll help? Id offer you some gold, but Ive only got two silver coins to my name. Of course, that was a lie. I wasnt some kind-hearted fool, handing out gold to strangers out of a sense of charity. Because back in my world, deep down, I knew the citys laws all too well. And I wasnt about to ignore that. I didnt need to pretend to be a saint. Greed was as much a part of me as the breath I took. I remember what it felt like back in schoolseeing my friends toss around money, buy what they wanted without a second thought. Snacks, school trips, clothes I could only dream of. Thats when I learned the real lesson: Money was everything. Without it, you were nothing. And when I grew up, the city didnt just teach me that; it burned it into my soul. Being selfish? It was easy. It was natural. And, more importantly, it worked. Lets just get out of here, Seker muttered, rubbing his temples. Youre heading back to your room to drop your clothes, right? Yes. Okay see you at the academy? Hmm, I said. See you. Oh, and sorry again. His shoulders sagged as he avoided my eyes. I really didnt think Jun, that bastard, would do something like this. You shouldnt have had to sit through all that drama. As if you didnt have enough problems of your own. Its fine, I replied in a dull tone. Im used to family drama. Seker managed a weak smile, though it didnt reach his eyes. Yeah. See you at school. Hmm. Chapter 81: Surprise yourself We went our separate ways. My pace quickened as the rain intensified, soaking through my newly repaired clothes. People darted across the streets, shielding themselves with whatever they could find, desperate to escape the downpour. The sky was heavy with dark clouds, making it impossible to tell if it was day or night. The cold, damp air wrapped around me like a familiar cloakit reminded me of home. Back there, people were just as unfeeling as the weather. But here people seemed different. Less self-centered. Or maybe I was losing my edge. Hard to say. Not wanting to catch a cold, I slipped into the nearest building and let out a breath of relief. The Diamond Eyes tavern greeted me with the hum of quiet chatter and the scent of old wood and ale. Behind the counter, Phobe poured a beer for a patron, her face a bit sleepy. My gaze drifted across the room, landing on a familiar figureMox, the Noxivera from Redwood. She sat alone at a table, her crimson skin and wings standing out against the dimly lit backdrop as she quietly ate her breakfast. Ah! Phobe greeted warmly as I approached the counter. Axel! Long time, no see. Howve you been? Getting by, I replied, shrugging off the rain from my sleeves. You? Better, now that things have settled, she said, bending down to grab something. When she straightened, a grin spread across her face as she held up a familiar dog. Look whos here! She gently hoisted Gentle Gerald into view, supporting the old dogs frail body. The three-legged mutt barked softly in recognition before hopping onto the counter and licking my face with surprising vigor. I wiped my cheek with the back of my hand, staring into his tired but kind eyes. His body bore scars from countless tortures probably, but he was still kicking. Still hanging in there, huh? I muttered, patting Gerald twice on the head. The dog wagged his tail lazily before Phobe put him down. Whos the good dog? You are. Whos the mothers favorite? You are. Do you have olive bread? I asked, settling onto a stool. Phobe raised an eyebrow, smirking. Olive bread? First thing in the morning? What, you on some fancy diet now? Kind of, I replied dryly. Well, no luck here, kid, she said, tossing the rag she was holding onto her shoulder. She gestured toward the window, where the rain was hammering down mercilessly. This weather, though. Youd think the gods had a grudge against us. Is it always like this in Kinowa? I asked, glancing outside. Oh, you bet, she said with a small laugh. Rains practically a local tradition. I leaned back, exhaling softly. Feels familiar. Phobe tilted her head at that, but before she could press further, a voice cut in from behind me. Well, well, Mox said, sliding onto the stool beside mine, her wings shifting slightly. If it isnt the great savior of the Queen himself. Mox, I acknowledged with a slight nod. Morning. You two know each other? Phobe asked, glancing between us as she wiped down the counter. Hardly, Mox replied with a chuckle, her crimson lips curling. Were not exactly in the same social circle. Hes in F-class, after all. Oh, right, Phobe said with a knowing smirk. So whered you meet?Reading on this site? This novel is published elsewhere. Support the author by seeking out the original. I crossed my arms, my tone even. Id never seen a Noxivera before coming to Kinowa, so I stared a little too long when I saw her. She took it personally. Mox leaned her elbow on the counter, her grin widening. Scared him half to death, she said, her voice teasing. You shouldve seen him. Really? Phobe raised an eyebrow. I thought Korathe village you came fromhad a few Noxivera living there. I even know---knew one of them. He was a sweet man. Had two kids. I My voice faltered for a split second before I forced a reply. Yeah, but I wasnt exactly social back then. Never really got close enough to talk to one. Huh, Mox murmured, clearly unconvinced, her eyes narrowing. Its a shame, though, Phobe interjected, her tone softening as she returned to cleaning the counter. It seemed like she bought my half-assed lie. What happened to Kora is just horrible. Poor people. I nodded, forcing a neutral expression. Inside, my mind raced. It wasnt often I slipped up with wordsId always prided myself on knowing how to steer a conversation, having a silver tongue. But Phobe had nearly caught me. Another reminder of why I avoided sharing too much about myself. The fewer people knew, the safer I was. Moxs gaze lingered on me, heavy and probing. I pretended not to notice, focusing instead on Gerald, who had nestled under my stool. He lay there quietly, licking at his scars. You found yourself a team yet? Mox asked, her sharp gaze lingering on me. Team? I leaned back slightly. For what, quests or something? The tournament, she clarified, taking a slow sip from her glass. You should join. I shook my head, my tone dismissive. Im good. Fighting really isnt my thing. Oh? Her lips curled into a faint smirk. After the forest fiasco, Id think youd at least try your luck. Who knows, you might surprise yourself. I responded with a noncommittal hum, neither agreeing nor disagreeing. Phobe wiped her hands on her apron as she turned to Mox. Want anything while youre here? Ive got some fresh peach juice. Ill take that, Mox said, sliding a silver coin onto the counter. She tilted her head back toward me, her wings shifting slightly as she spoke. Youre up early. Couldnt sleep, I muttered. Same, she said, stifling a yawn. Woke up at five. This damn storm had me up, and I havent been able to get any decent rest since. Yeah, weathers been rough. I glanced at the droplets streaking down the window. Phobe placed a glass of peach juice in front of Mox. Here you go. Thanks, Mox said, taking a sip before glancing at the dog curled under the counter. Hows Gentle Gerald holding up? Hes good and lucky, Phobe replied, her voice tinged with relief. Im just glad to have him back. Moxs expression darkened. Cant believe he was going to bewell, you know. Chopped up and sold for parts. That Suzan and her mother are pure monsters. Phobe waved it off with a tired sigh. Forget Suzan. Were you hurt during the elf attack? I still cant wrap my head around them targeting Redwood. The Queen, of all people! The students were fine, Mox said, her voice steady but distant. The elves werent after usjust the Queen. Cant say the same for Axel, though. They really had it out for him. I exhaled sharply, shrugging. Only because I happened to be with the Queen during the attack. Phobe raised an eyebrow, leaning on the counter. Why didnt you run? I mean, Ill give you thisyou were brave. But still, wasnt that a bit reckless? I looked down briefly, weighing my words. I was afraid people would think I was in on the attack if I ran. So, I fought. Didnt go too well for me, though. Got beaten up pretty bad. Mox smirked faintly, swirling her juice in the glass. Thats one way to put it. You were lucky to walk away. Either way, people think youre a hero, Phobe said with a shrug. Though most only know your name. Hmm, I muttered, my eyes flicking to the window. The rain had started to ease, the relentless downpour softening into a steady drizzle. Looks like its calming down. I should head to Redwood before it picks up again. Ill come with you, Mox said, hopping off the stool and stretching her wings slightly. Lets go. Uh okay. Gerald barked softly as we stepped toward the door, the muted sound of rain greeting us outside. Mox adjusted her cloak and gave me a nod, her expression unreadable. Without another word, we walked into the fading storm together. Chapter 82: All too much Our steps splashed through shallow puddles on the cobblestone streets. The rain had eased slightly, but it was far from over. A cold, damp breeze lingered in the air, adding to the chill. Most market stalls were closed, though a few hardy vendors braved the weather under makeshift cloth canopies. I couldnt help but muse over the absence of umbrellas in this world. If I invented one, I could probably rake in some gold. A soft hum broke my thoughts as Mox raised her hands slightly, a golden barrier shimmering to life above our heads. Droplets of rain hissed and evaporated as they hit the dome, leaving us dry. Her concentration never wavered as we walked, though the barrier''s glow pulsed faintly, revealing the effort it demanded. Heading to the academy? she asked, breaking the silence. Her gaze flicked to the bundle in my arms. Whats with the armor and clothes? Yeah, I replied, adjusting the wet fabric clinging to me. I was going to drop these off at my room first, but its a bit late for that. Weve got forty minutes before class, she offered. We can still swing by the boys dormitory. Then lets do that, I said. And, uh, thanks for the barrier. Its draining my mana pretty fast, she admitted, her voice steady but edged with fatigue. Can you cast a barrier if I need a break? I rubbed the back of my neck. I can manage an ice barrier. If thats a thing. That works, but itll be cold, she said, her tone teasing but thoughtful. If you can cast an ice barrier, other basic ones shouldnt be much harder. I shrugged. Guess Im just not great at spellcasting. She raised an eyebrow, her eyes narrowing slightly. Yeah, she said, her tone sharp enough to sting. I guess so. The suspicion in her voice wasnt lost on me, but I pretended not to notice, keeping my expression neutral. It was better this waylet her think whatever she wanted. I had no interest in explaining myself. We walked in silence for a few minutes, the looming boys dormitory coming into view. Its towering structure was impossible to miss, even in the rain-soaked gloom. Theres my stop, I said, slowing my pace. No need to wait. Its fine, she replied, shrugging. Ill head to the girls dormitory anyway. Forgot my book. See you in two? Hmm. She nodded, turning down the street toward her dormitory. The golden barrier dissolved the moment she stepped away, leaving me exposed to the drizzle once more. I hunched my shoulders and picked up my pace, eager to escape the rain. By the time I reached the dormitory door, I practically crashed into it, shoving it open with my shoulder. Inside, the scent of freshly baked bread and coffee wafted through the air. Students sat scattered at tables, eating breakfast and chatting in low voices. I ignored them, heading straight for the stairs and climbing to my room.The narrative has been stolen; if detected on Amazon, report the infringement. Once inside, I dumped my soaked armor and clothes in the corner and exhaled a long, weary sigh. This lifethis struggle to survive in a world so alienwas wearing me down. Cannibals, bandits, a self-absorbed Queen... It was just all too much. Come on, Ax, I muttered to myself, my voice barely above a whisper. Push through. I closed the door behind me and trudged back down the stairs. Halfway down, I spotted Liam descending from the upper floor. His sharp, serious eyes met mine, and he nodded in acknowledgment. I returned the nod silently, brushing past him to the first floor. The counter was busy, with students lining up for breakfast. Plates of bread, butter, eggs, and cheese accompanied by glasses of orange juice were being served. My stomach growled faintly, but I pushed the thought aside. Mox was waiting. Axel, Liam called from behind me, his voice calm but curious. Not eating? I already ate, I replied without stopping. Right, he said, adjusting his glasses. Good morning, by the way. I gestured to the window, where the rain continued to streak down the glass. Not much of a morning, huh? Cant even see the sun. He glanced at the window and gave a small shrug. Its always rainy in Kinowa. Hmm. Anyway, I gotta go. See you later. I said, pushing open the door and stepping back into the damp streets. See you, he replied, his attention already shifting toward the breakfast line. Stepping out of the dormitory, I was greeted by Mox waiting just a few steps ahead, her wings twitching faintly as droplets rolled off their edges. Her golden barrier hummed softly, shielding her from the rain. Without a word, I moved toward her, stepping back into the protective sphere. The rhythmic patter of rain softened within its confines. The streets were beginning to stir as students poured out of their dormitories, trudging through the damp morning toward the academy. Besides them, the only other souls braving the downpour were shopkeepers huddled under their stall awnings and a few homeless people curled in dry corners. This weather was for the desperateor the late. Ready to go? Mox asked, glancing at me. I nodded. Hmm. Thanks for waiting. No problem, she said with a shrug. Then her eyes flicked toward her outstretched hands, the barrier flickering faintly. Hey, think you can take over with the barrier spell? Im running on fumes here. I hesitated, rubbing the back of my neck. Uh sure. How exactly do I do that? You dont know how? She shot me a skeptical look. You said you could cast an ice barrier. I mean its complicated, I muttered. I can cast it probably. Complicated? Her wings gave an impatient twitch. Its a basic spell. Just focus your mana and visualize it. Its not that hard. I sighed, coming to a halt. Alright, let me give it a shot. Closing my eyes, I exhaled deeply, trying to focus. I extended my hand forward, fingers slightly spread. At first, there was nothingjust the chill of the rain-soaked air. But as I concentrated, a faint spark flared to life within me. It wasnt something tangible, more like an instinct, a whisper that guided me. The spark grew, fanning into a steady warmth as mana coursed through me. A moment later, a shimmering blue barrier formed around us, its surface rippling like frozen glass. Rain hissed and evaporated as it hit the shield. Just as Mox had warned, a biting cold emanated from it, but it wasnt unbearablejust enough to make me shiver slightly. Not bad, she said, lowering her hands and letting her barrier dissolve. Didnt think youd pull it off. Me neither, I admitted, my tone as flat as ever. Shall we? Lets. She grinned faintly, already moving forward. Chapter 83: Yet another day As we walked, I kept the spell active, the steady hum of mana a new sensation for me. I glanced sideways at Mox, whose wings seemed less tense now that she wasnt maintaining her barrier. The academy wasnt far now, and with the cold shield around us, the rain no longer felt like an obstaclejust an inconvenient backdrop to another dreary morning in Kinowa. I just wish I had these strange spells in my own world, itd save me from a lot of troubles. So, Mox began, her tone casual yet probing. What was life like in Kora? Standard, I replied, keeping my voice flat. And boring. She tilted her head slightly, as if weighing my words. You mentioned your folks passed away when you were younger... in another country, right? How old were you, if you dont mind me asking? I clenched my jaw for a brief moment, then shook my head. I, uh---rather not talk about it. Brings back bad memories. Fair enough, she said softly, glancing ahead. I understand. We walked in silence for a moment, the rain-muted street providing a brief reprieve. Just as I began to think the questions had stopped, I caught her giving me a sidelong glance. Her gaze was sharp, calculating, and her wings twitched slightly, betraying her curiosity. It was clear she wasnt done. How did you escape the attack? she asked, her tone laced with subtle suspicion. The goblin attack, I mean. I was ready for this. Lies were easier when rehearsed. I wasnt in the village when it happened. I was out gathering mushrooms in the forest. Her eyebrows raised. Mushrooms? I nodded, keeping my expression neutral. When I got back, I saw goblinskilling people, burning homes. I ran as fast as I could, but one of them chased me down. I paused for effect, then added, I managed to fight it off. Her eyes narrowed slightly. And then what happened? The goblin ran off, and I passed out. When I woke up I found Mortan. Mortan? A blacksmith. He took me in, I explained, keeping my voice steady. Lucky break, she remarked, her tone skeptical but laced with resignation. Guess so, I said with a shrug, careful not to elaborate. Lucky break indeed. As we approached the academy gates, the air grew tense. Guards lined the streets in greater numbers than usual, their eyes sharp and scanning every face. A few were forcing people to remove their hoods, their inspection methods far from polite. One man refused, pulling his hood tighter. The guard kicked him in the chest, knocking him down, and yanked it off roughly. Once satisfied the man wasnt an elf, they didnt even bother helping him up, moving on to the next unfortunate target. They were serious about this whole thing. Yikes, Mox muttered, her voice dripping with disdain. Guards are such jerks. Theyre looking for elves, I said. Do you agree with how theyre handling it? Agree on what? she asked, her wings twitching slightly in annoyance. Do you support how they treat the elves? She scoffed, her tone bitter. Of course not. The Queens just a racist tyrant. She taxes anyone who isnt human more than the rest. I nodded. One of the elves who attacked her said something similar.Unauthorized usage: this narrative is on Amazon without the author''s consent. Report any sightings. Her expression darkened. Wish you hadnt stepped in to stop them. Her death mightve actually saved this country. And then what? I asked, my voice low. If she dies, who takes the throne? She has two kids. The youngest is ten, the eldest sixteen, she replied. But since the eldest is a girl, the boy would inherit the throne. Huh If the elves had succeeded, theyd have to wipe out her entire family to prevent another tyrant from rising. No rulers left. Just chaos. Her voice was steady but cold, like shed given this more thought than she cared to admit. The old order would fall, and a new one would rise. You really hate her, I said, glancing sideways at her. Of course I hate her. Show me a Noxivera that doesnt, she shot back, her eyes glowing faintly in the gloom. Fair enough, I muttered, keeping pace beside her as the school came into view in the distance. The number of guards increased the closer we got to the academy. At the gates, two stood rigid, inspecting every student like hawks as they entered the grounds. Their presence turned the school into something that felt less like a place of learning and more like a fortress. It made sense, thoughafter yesterdays attempt on the Queens life, precautions were necessary. Still, it seemed excessive, bordering on paranoia. We passed through the gates without incident and stopped under a tree for some cover. I let the shimmering blue of the ice barrier fade away, pretending it drained me completely, though the truth was far from that. Id felt like I couldve kept the spell going indefinitely. Still, I didnt want to draw suspicion, so I exhaled deeply and slumped my shoulders. Im spent, I muttered, faking a labored sigh. Sorry. Mox leaned against the trunk of the tree. Not bad. Honestly, you were better than I expected. My record for holding a barrier spell is, what, two minutes? You lasted close to seven. Thats A-class level mana control. I shrugged. Didnt want to get soaked, thats all. She tilted her head slightly, studying me for a moment before smoothing out her hair with a flick of her fingers. The movement was casual, but her eyes lingered on me, the sharpness in her gaze unnerving. I shifted my focus, staring up at the academy rooftops. My mind wandered back to yesterdays ambush. The elves hadnt been after me specifically, but being near the Queen had put me squarely in the line of fire. Their blades and arrows didnt care who I was or what I wantedthey just wanted blood. The closest Id ever felt to real danger in my old world was when a strung-out guy tried to mug me. I still remembered the panic, the blind sprint through the streets to get away. But here? Here, life was a constant fight for survival. Id trade this world for that chaos any day. Whats on your mind? Moxs voice cut through my thoughts, pulling me back to reality. Nothing, I replied flatly, my gaze still fixed above. You She paused, her tone both curious and concerned. Youve only got one expression. Never seen you laugh or even look remotely excited about anything. Im just boring, I said, finally looking at her. Never had much in my life to be excited or happy about. Ouch, she said, raising a brow. Depressed much? Nah. She started to speak again, but I wasnt in the mood for an interrogation. Knowing her persistence, I decided to throw her off track. Can I touch your wings? The question came out so abruptly that she froze mid-sentence, her mouth hanging open in surprise. Her head tilted slightly, and she scratched the back of her neck, glancing at her wings, which twitched reflexively. Uh sure? I stepped closer, lifting a hand. Youre sure? Yeah, go ahead. I reached out and let my fingers brush against the surface. The texture was rougher than I expected, with faint ridges and the steady pulse of veins beneath. It was oddly fascinating. The wings were retracted, held close to her backlikely to avoid drawing attention in the crowded space. Well? she asked, her tone dry and edged with sarcasm. Satisfy your curiosity, Axel? If so, let go before people get the wrong idea. Right, I said, pulling my hand back quickly. Sorry. Before the awkward silence could stretch too long, a sharp voice called out from the academys double doors. Students! A teacher stood in the doorway, her tone brisk and authoritative. For your safety, all students are to remain indoors during breaks. Classes will begin shortly, so head inside. We should go, Mox said, straightening and adjusting her bag. Ill find my friends. You? Same, I lied, knowing I didnt have anyone to look for. See you later. Yeah. See you, she replied, giving a small wave as she headed toward the doors. I lingered for a moment under the tree, the chill of the dissipated barrier clinging to my skin. With a sigh, I turned and followed the flow of students into the building, bracing myself for yet another day in this world. Chapter 84: Too loud As I followed the stream of students, I ended up near the halls familiar central tree. The space was packed, students clustering around every table and bench. The mandatory confinement had made the area feel more stifling than usual. At one of the tables, I spotted Jane with her friend group, chatting animatedly and laughing. Her voice carried over the hum of conversation, but I couldnt make out what she was saying, nor did I care. My focus was elsewhereheading to the library to dig deeper into the mysteries of the Void. I adjusted my pace, taking the stairs slowly, hoping Jane wouldnt notice me as I slipped past her group. Halfway up, I saw Aiden and Leo standing by a window, engaged in what seemed like an intense conversation. Not in the mood for idle chatter, I turned my face slightly away, pretending not to notice them. Hey, Axel! Leos voice rang out, breaking through the crowd noise. He waved enthusiastically as if I hadnt just ignored him. Morning! Morning, I replied curtly, keeping my pace steady. Aiden turned toward me, his expression neutral. Seen Seker anywhere? Sorry, no, I said in a flat tone. In a bit of a hurry. Right, no problem, Aiden said with a casual shrug. Take care. I gave a slight nod and moved on, relieved the exchange hadnt dragged on. When I reached the library, I realized that its calmness was the opposite of the chaos outside. Finally I could relax a bit, be alone with my thoughts. I needed this. I stepped through the doors and made my way to the familiar shelf where Id left Void 101. The book was right where Id placed it yesterday. Grabbing it, I sank into one of the worn couches in the corner, a small coffee table separating me from the shelves ahead. Opening the book, I let my eyes scan the pages, but before I could immerse myself in the text, a translucent screen materialized in my visiona pop-up Id become begrudgingly accustomed to. ================ NEW QUEST ================ Quest Title: Grind -------------------------- Deadline: Today Objective: * Kill five goblins. -------------------------- Rewards: - Silver: 4 - Experience: 25 XP - 1x Uncommon item material ========================== [Accept] [Decline] [Enhance] The word kill lingered like a sour note. Without hesitation, I tapped Decline, and the quest faded into nothingness. Another pair of quests hovered beneath it. One involved hunting a bear. I didnt even bother reading further and declined that too as I had a bad experience with a bear before. The last quest caught my eye. ================ NEW QUEST ================ Quest Title: Bow & arrow -------------------------- Deadline: Today Objective: * Hunt a rabbit. -------------------------- Rewards: - Experience: 25 XP - 2x Common item material ==========================Support creative writers by reading their stories on Royal Road, not stolen versions. [Accept] [Decline] [Enhance] Curious, I tapped Enhance, only to see the requirements balloon to hunting four rabbits. That was far beyond my skill set, so I returned it to its original state and accepted. Hunting a rabbit wouldnt be easy either, though. I lacked the tools, and my fireball spell wasnt exactly suited for precision. The thought of acquiring a bow gnawed at me; with my limited funds, it wouldnt be a simple task. Shoving the quest to the back of my mind for now, I returned to the book, focusing on the weird descriptions of the Void. The room around me buzzed with murmurs, but I managed to tune them out for a while, turning page after page. called in sick for one day, and elves attacked the Queen? a girls voice drifted from a table behind me, breaking my concentration. Oh, yes, her friend replied, her tone dripping with intrigue. It was planned, obviously. They were everywhererooftops, alleys, you name it. And you said someone from F class saved her, right? Yeah, apparently. Though all he used was a fireball. Makes me think thats the only spell he can cast. His name was Axen or something. Forget spells! What happened next? The Queens general showed up. Took the elves down like it was nothing. Her voice carried a mix of awe and disbelief. Honestly, he made it look easy. The first girl gasped. Isnt he her right-hand man or something? General, right hand, who cares? Point is, he saved the day. Ugh, I cant believe I missed it, the girl lamented. Of all days to call in sick Their conversation faded into the background as I closed the book for a moment, rubbing my temple. I didnt like hearing my name ring out like that. This was my worst nightmare coming to life. Attention was the last thing I wanted. If people started focusing on me, theyd start asking questions. And if one of them happened to be from Korathe village I claimed I was fromthey might expose me as a liar. My dull eyes locked on the ground, unmoving, unblinking. I needed to take control of my life. Right now, I was like a leaf caught in a storm, tossed whichever way the wind blew. But where was I supposed to start? I didnt have a clue. I was lost, plain and simple. Did you see those tits? a boy two seats away blurted, grinning like an idiot. His voice carried louder than it shouldve. Yeah, I did, his friend replied, snickering. Theyre unreal. I pinched the bridge of my nose and let out a quiet sigh. Grabbing my book, I stood up and walked toward the windows. I found an empty chair, sat down, and leaned against it. This side of the library was quieter, free from the pointless chatter. Only the steady patter of rain hitting the glass accompanied me. It was oddly calming. Beyond the window, students scurried into the building, their cloaks and uniforms drenched as they ran from the downpour. Guards patrolled outside, eyes sharp, scanning the area with the vigilance of people expecting something worse than rain to fall from the sky. I turned back to my book, scanning the pages for any mention of escapeany sliver of hope. But all it had to offer were descriptions of the creatures within the Void. I kept reading, holding out for something useful. Ten minutes later, I closed the book with a soft thud, letting my shoulders slump. No answers. Just names of monsters Id never want to meet. Damn it I muttered under my breath, pressing my hands to my face. My fingers dragged down slowly as I stared at the ceiling. Am I stuck here? No no, theres gotta be a way. I glanced toward the entrance just in time to spot Mr. Poley walking past the hall. My body moved before I thought, rising from my seat and following him. My footsteps echoed softly in the corridor as I picked up my pace, catching up to him. Mr. Poley glanced back, slowing his steps. His brow raised as he noticed me, offering a small nod of acknowledgment. Morning, sir, I said, walking beside him. Morning, Mr. Millo. He glanced at me with mild curiosity. Need something? I had some questions about the Void, I asked, keeping my gaze steady. His eyes narrowed, but he nodded. Curiosity is good. Ask away. I hesitated for a moment, collecting my thoughts. The Lost 100, I began, they came from another universe, right? They pushed back Valkaar, the God of the Void? Yes, he confirmed, his tone shifting to something more serious. Defeating her wouldve been impossible, so they sealed her away. The gods assisted them, and its thanks to their intervention that the seal still holds. But the Lost 100 got stuck here, I continued. Do you really think there was no way for them to return to their original world? He glanced at me with a hint of something I couldnt quite placepity, maybe. Then his gaze hardened. There was a way, Mr. Millo, he said slowly, his voice lowering. That caught me off guard. There was? He stopped walking and turned to face me fully, folding his hands behind his back. They couldve worked with Valkaar, he said, his eyes sharp. Help her get her revenge on this world. In exchange, she couldve sent them back home, probably. My heart skipped a beat. Theyd work with the God of the Void? Thats the idea, he replied with a grim smile. But its all in the past now. Fortunately, none of them took that path. If it was even possible, that is. I stood there, the weight of his words sinking in. Right Anyway, back to class with you, Mr. Millo, he said, his tone lighter now, more like a teacher ushering a student along. Lessons about to start. Y-yes sir, I replied, still rooted in place as he walked off. My eyes followed him, even after he turned the corner and disappeared. Work with Valkaar, huh? Help the God of the Void just to go home. I grit my teeth. My fists clenched at my sides. No, I muttered, shaking my head slowly. There has to be another way. There has to be. But doubt dug its claws into my mind. What if there wasnt? I stared down at my hands, my fingers twitching like they didnt belong to me. What if that was my only option? Crap I breathed, my eyes unfocused. The world around me seemed too loud, too close. My thoughts swirled like a storm. What am I going to do now? I muttered, but no one was there to answer. Chapter 85: Suit yourself Shaking the fear off, I descended the stairs and started toward the F class. The hallway was so massive that I instantly forgot which way I was supposed to go. Luckily, I spotted Jane walking in the opposite direction. Without a second thought, I fell in behind her, keeping a steady pace. I needed a third perspective on this whole "work with the god of Void" mess. Mr. Poley didnt sound sure that Valkaar could actually open a portal back to my universe. Hed only hinted that it might be possible. Even if it was I didnt think it would be wise for me to risk it. That maniac tried to destroy the world, probably killing countless innocent people. I was officially screwed. Is that him? a boy muttered behind me. The guy who was with the Queen when she was attacked? his friend replied in a hushed tone. Yeah, thats him. Be quiet, hell hear you. Doesnt look like anyone special. Right? If it was me, Id kill them right there. Bam, bam, bam. Easy. Unfortunately, I seemed to be the talk of the day. It didnt bother me much. People would move on soon enough. After all, the only thing theyd probably remember about the attack would be how the general saved the Queen and wiped out all those elves single-handedly. I just had to wait it out. Jane entered the classroom, and I followed. I slid into my seat near the front, just ahead of the teachers desk, and leaned back. The view from here was limited to the city walls and the greenery stretching beyond them. Hey. Jane''s face popped into my peripheral vision as she leaned over, arms tucked behind her back. Her eyes were sharp with curiosity. How are you feeling? Good, I said, straightening up. You? Same, she replied, her gaze shifting briefly toward the chattering students. Everyones talking about you, though. Yeah, I muttered, scratching my temple. I guess they are. They keep calling you the guy who was there when the Queen got attacked. Not, the guy who saved the Queen. Must be so annoying for you, huh? I didnt save her, I said, keeping my voice low. We barely escaped their attacks. I just think its Alright, class, Mr. Poleys voice cut through the room as he strode in, his coat swaying with each step. Take your seats. Weve got a long day ahead. Ah, talk to you later, Jane whispered, flashing me a quick grin before retreating to her desk. Hmm, I grunted, already glancing toward the front.Stolen story; please report. Yesterday was a reminder, he began, his gaze sweeping across us, sharp as ever. "A reminder that danger can strike when you least expect it." His voice was steady but carried enough weight to make even the restless kids at the back sit still. Fortunately, no one was hurt. But that doesnt mean the danger is gone. A pause. Just long enough to let those words sink in. Classes will be shortened to twenty minutes for the next two or three days, he continued, eyes scanning the room. "This will allow you to return home early. But you will not be allowed outside during breaks. What if they attack again? a student blurted out from the middle row. Guards have been stationed here to protect all of you, Mr. Poley assured him, his tone leaving no room for doubt. Youre safe. Now, open to page 78. No murmuring, no side talk. We only have twenty minutes, so let''s not waste it. I glanced around, watching as everyone pulled books from their bags and set them on their desks. My hands stayed empty. No books for me yet. Mr. Poley noticed. His eyes scanned the room, narrowing on each student until his gaze landed on the girl sitting alone at the back. She was a Noxivera. Her short silver hair covered one eye, and she kept her head low, focused on something only she could see. Ms. Miop, please sit with Mr. Millo here, Mr. Poley announced, his gaze shifting toward me. He doesnt have his book yet. Yes, sir. Her response was dry, like she just woke up. She moved slowly, her red skin and sharp horns marking her as unmistakably Noxivera. Her small frame, probably no taller than 150 centimeters, made her large wings look even more prominent. Her eyes had the same vacant, indifferent look I often saw in my own reflection. In her hands, she carried a thick, hardbound book titled Spellcasting. I slid my chair aside to make space, watching as she sat down and flipped straight to page 78. Without a word, she glanced in my direction, giving me a brief, silent nod before turning her attention to the book. Spellcasting is the backbone of magic, Mr. Poley began, his voice steady as he walked slowly across the front of the room. As I mentioned before, spells can be cast without chanting. Today, well be practicing that technique. Which spell, sir? Jane''s voice cut in from the middle row, her hand only half-raised. Pick one from page 78 and 79, Mr. Poley replied, tapping the page number on the board behind him. Those pages are limited to support spells, so youll have plenty of options. I leaned in to get a better look at the book Miop held open. My eyes darted across the page, taking in the names of spells. Each title was written in bold script, but none of them were familiar. Without that weird translucent box to grant me new spells, I had no way to learn them naturally like the others. Id need to rack up experience points and level up. Miop shifted, and I realized too late that I was leaning too close. Her gaze flicked to me, one brow slightly raised as if waiting for me to move. I leaned back quickly. Ah, sorry. Done reading? she asked, her tone flat but not unkind. Im turning the page. Hmm. She flipped to the next page, and my eyes locked onto a familiar heading. Barrier Spells. Relief washed over me, subtle but solid, and I sat up straighter. Picked one yet? Miop asked, eyes flicking toward me but not lingering. Ice Barrier, I said. Think Ill pick this one. Her wings gave a faint twitch as she glanced at me with mild surprise. Thats one of the hardest ones on the page, she remarked, her voice as calm as ever. Id go with a healing spell. Way easier. I shook my head, tapping the page lightly. Ill stick with this. Thanks for the advice, though. Suit yourself, she muttered, her attention already back on the book, eyes scanning the spells with the same quiet intensity. Now, Mr. Poley said. Lets begin. Chapter 86: Next year Mr. Poley leaned against his desk, arms crossed, his gaze sharp as he surveyed the classroom. The low hum of murmurs filled the air as students flipped through the pages of their books, eyes darting back and forth like they were searching for a secret answer. Beside me, Miop stayed quiet, her eyes fixed on the text. No unnecessary chatter. No forced small talk. Just focus. I liked that. Everyone ready? Mr. Poleys voice cut through the whispers like a knife. His gaze swept the room. "Let''s start from the front. Ms. Miop, step forward." Yes, sir. Miop rose from her seat, her chair legs scraping the floor with a brief, sharp screech. And which spell have you chosen? A healing spell, sir. She stood tall, her voice steady but unenthusiastic. Good choice, Mr. Poley replied with a nod. Healing spells are the easiest to cast but the hardest to make effective. Conjuring light is one thing. Actually mending flesh is another. He clapped his hands together. When he pulled them apart, a dagger shimmered into existence, floating weightlessly between his palms. Without hesitation, he grabbed it and drew a short, clean cut across his palm. A thin line of red welled up instantly. Miop stiffened, her eyes locked on the trail of blood. She didnt flinch, but she didnt move either. The room went dead quiet. Every head turned to watch. The only sound was the faint rustling of a few students flipping through their book more urgently than before. Students probably chose to cast healing spells just like Miop did. And now, seeing what was happening, they were having second doubts, trying to find another spell to cast. Dont just stand there, Ms. Miop, Mr. Poley prompted, holding his bleeding hand out to her. "You know what to do." Y-yes, sir. She stepped forward, extending her hand over his. Her fingers hovered above the wound, trembling ever so slightly. Her eyes shut tight, and after a moment, a faint green glow flickered to life in her palm. It pulsed weakly, struggling to stay lit. The light dimmed, faded, then returned, only fainter than before. Her lips pressed into a thin line as she focused harder, her brows furrowing. It wasnt working. Her breath came in sharp, quick huffs, but she didn''t give up. She lowered her arm, let it hang at her side for a second, then raised it again. This time, she didnt close her eyes. Her gaze locked on the wound, unblinking. Her breathing slowed. Thats right. He said. Youre doing good, Ms. Miop. Concentrate. Yes, sir. The green glow returned, stronger than before. Steady. Focused. Her fingers hovered just inches from his palm, and slowly, slowly, the cut began to close. By the time five seconds had passed, the skin was smooth again, the blood gone. Mr. Poley inspected his hand, turning it over like he was looking for any signs of failure. Satisfied, he gave a nod. Well done, Ms. Miop, he said, clapping his hands once. I knew you could do it. Excellent control.Love this story? Find the genuine version on the author''s preferred platform and support their work! Thank you, sir, she replied, wiping her brow with the back of her hand. "Had a bit of a rough start." Completely normal, Mr. Poley assured her. Healing takes more mana than most of you realize. A small cut like this would drain half the mana of every F-class student here. Ouch, someone muttered from the back. You should feel inspired, not discouraged, Mr. Oper, Mr. Poley shot back without missing a beat. Back to your seat, Ms. Miop. Next up his gaze shifted to me. Mr. Millo. Step forward. A few students leaned in their chairs, eyes glued to me as I rose from my seat. My legs carried me to the front on their own, steady but stiff. I could feel every stare on my back like pinpricks, sharp and annoying. Jane caught my eye from across the room, flashing me a grin and a thumbs-up. By the time I reached the front, Mr. Poleys gaze was locked on mine. No smile. No encouragement. Just expectation. Alright, Mr. Millo, he said, his voice cool and even. Which spell have you chosen? Ice Barrier, sir, I replied, keeping my voice firm, steady. His eyebrows lifted just a fraction, like I''d said something bold. "Ambitious." He shifted his stance, eyes narrowing in scrutiny. "Barrier spells are no small task. Conjuring one takes a lot of mana, and maintaining it drains you every second it stays active." Yes, sir, I said, giving a small nod as if Id known that already. Alright, then, he said. Lets see it. I expect you to hold it for twenty seconds. Understood. I rolled my shoulders back, fingers flexing at my sides. The spell activated without a hitch, a soft blue glow wrapping around me like a big shield. I flexed my fingers, feeling the faint hum of magic coursing through them. Mr. Poley looked at me with interest as he approached the front of the room, his gaze sharp but thoughtful. His hand lifted, and he pointed behind me. Your back, he remarked, tilting his head toward it. The barrier only protects the frontthe direction your palm is facing. Try placing your other hand behind you and casting a second barrier. Ill give it a shot, sir. Shifting my stance, I followed his instructions, stretching my free hand behind me. I focused, feeling for that familiar pulse of energy. But the moment I tried to cast, I ended the spell and failed knowingly, the glow around me flickered and died. My arms dropped to my sides, and I let out a loud, exaggerated breath, wiping at my forehead like Id just finished a marathon. Phew, I muttered, slumping my shoulders as if I''d just run laps. Mr. Poley nodded, his face softening with understanding. He gave me a firm pat on the shoulder. Not bad, Mr. Millo. Its a tough spell to control, and you managed it for a solid stretch. Well done. Thank you, sir, I replied, keeping my breathing a little heavier than usual to sell the act. Hard spell to pick for your first go, but you handled it well, he added, folding his arms. You can return to your seat. Lets move on. I made my way back to my desk, dropping into my chair with a quiet sigh. Leaning back, I let my eyes drift to the window. The endless green beyond the city walls filled the view, wild and untamed. It was too muchtoo much life, too much open space. Back home, it was concrete as far as the eye could see. Sure, it wasnt pretty, but it was familiar. The cold air, the colder people, the way everyone only cared about themselves. I missed that. At least back there, nobody was trying to chop me up and eat mewell, aside from that one time with those crackheads chasing me through the alley. Weird night. Weird people. Come to think of it, Ive always been surrounded by weird people. Not bad, Miop said, drawing my attention back. She watched me with that same neutral stare, one wing shifting behind her like she was flicking away a fly. You almost kept it active for fifteen seconds. Almost, I muttered, glancing at my hands. But I didnt. Doesnt matter, a boy behind me chimed in, his voice carrying a lazy sort of confidence. Were Class F. No one expects us to be great. Well move up to D next year for sure. Yeah, I muttered, propping my chin on my hand. Next year TTTTTT?TTTTTT Chapter 87: Don鈥檛 mention it After the classes ended, I sat at one of the tables near the giant tree, its branches stretching wide overhead. The gates were still shut as the guards finished their "safety check," making sure no elves were waiting outside. I didnt mind. After everything that happened, my heart wasnt ready for another ambush. I could wait, no problem. I pulled two silver coins from my pocket and set them on the table, tapping them idly with my fingers. Just two coins. Nowhere near enough to buy a bow and arrows. Id have to hunt a rabbit to complete the quest eventually, but without proper gear, that wasnt happening. Rich man over here, a familiar voice quipped from behind. I glanced over my shoulder to see Mox strolling up, her wings shifting slightly as she walked. Her grin was sharp, teasing. She plopped into the chair next to me, leaning her elbow on the table like she owned the place. Peoplell start getting jealous if you keep flaunting that fortune, she added, flicking a finger toward the coins. Yeah, right, I muttered, still turning one of the coins in my hand. I need a bow. How much do you think one costs? Mox tilted her head, thinking it over. Ive got a spare, she said casually, like it was no big deal. What are you hunting? Rabbits, I replied. Never shot an arrow before, though. Her eyes flicked to me, amused. Oh, so youre a complete beginner, she said, leaning back in her chair with a grin. I could teach you. Im pretty decent with a bow. What do you want in return? Smart, she said with a short laugh. I just picked up a quest from the Guild. I glanced at her, waiting for her to explain. Gotta deliver two shields and two swords, she continued, stretching her legs out under the table. And let me tell you, those things are heavy. Carry them with me, help me deliver them, and Ill give you the bow. Thats it? I asked, eyeing her carefully. Thats it, she said, flashing a grin. Deal? Deal, I replied, leaning back in my chair. When are we heading out? As soon as they let us out of here, she said. Meet me in front of the girls'' dormitory. The weapons are stored there. Hmm. Her grin twisted into a mock scowl. No thanks? No ''appreciate it, Mox?'' Just a grunt? I didnt bother answering, letting the silence settle between us. My eyes drifted to the ground as my thoughts wandered to Void 101, that book Id read. It mentioned that people used to open portals to the Void, but that was back in the "olden days"whenever that was. Maybe people like that still existed. If I could find them, they might help me get back home. But thinking about it too long made it seem more like a pipe dream than a plan. Mox let out a long sigh, clearly bored. She kicked her legs under the table, swinging them back and forth in slow, lazy arcs. Can I be honest with you? she asked suddenly. Hmm. She leaned forward, resting her chin on her palm. Her gaze pinned me with quiet curiosity. I dont think youre from Kora. My eyes flicked up to meet hers, my face still as stone. There it wasthat exact problem Id been trying to avoid. I knew getting too close to people would bring this kind of attention. Shouldve kept my distance. Shouldve kept my mouth shut. But it was too late for that now.The author''s content has been appropriated; report any instances of this story on Amazon. I took a slow breath, keeping my gaze steady. And what makes you think that? Youre from Kora, but youve never hunted with a bow? Never seen a Noxivera before, either, she said, her eyes narrowing. Doesnt add up. Her words hung in the air like a blade balanced on its edge. Lets say youre right, I said, leaning forward, my voice low and even. What then? She shrugged, her wings giving a faint twitch. I dunno. Just curious why youd lie about it. She leaned back in her chair, watching me with that same cool stare. Its not just that, though. Your mana feels off. I heard about you in class. People said you dropped that Ice Barrier spell after ten seconds I think it was on purpose. Her eyes narrowed. Didnt want to stand out too much, huh? Why would I do that? I asked, my eyes sharp on hers. Like I said, I dont know, she replied, her voice as calm as if we were discussing the weather. She tilted her head, studying me like I was some puzzle she couldnt quite solve. You hiding something, Millo? I folded my hands on the table, leaning forward just a bit. And what if I am? Her wings twitched, her eyes narrowing as a smile curled at the edge of her lipsnot a friendly one. Leaning forward, she pressed both hands onto the table, her gaze locked on mine like she was sizing me up. I stayed put, my face blank, refusing to rise to whatever challenge she thought shed set. If she wanted to push me, shed be disappointed. Her mouth opened like she had more to say, but after a pause, she leaned back in her chair instead. Her wings gave another flick, but she didnt press further. I quietly exhaled, keeping my relief hidden. Lying in a world I barely understood was already hard enough. The last thing I needed was someone like her digging into it. No matter how I looked at it, she had enough clues to piece things together. My story was full of cracks, and I knew it. The longer I stayed here, the more tangled the lies would get. I needed something more solid, something that would stick. A teachers voice called out from across the courtyard, sharp and clear. You can all go out now. Everything is safe. Moxs chair scraped against the ground as she stood. Her wings shifted as she stretched, glancing at me. Come on. Lets go. I got up, shoving my hands into my pockets. My gaze stayed ahead, watching the doors swing open. You were right, I muttered, keeping my eyes on the path ahead. Im not from Kora. Her pace slowed just enough for her to glance at me, eyebrows raised. Knew it. I went there to see if there was anything worth taking after the attack, I said, the lie already forming as I spoke. But a goblin spotted me, so I ran. A scavenger, huh? She tilted her head, watching me like she wasnt sure if I was clever or just pathetic. Not a thief, I said firmly, matching her gaze. I used to live in a hut outside Kora. Then one day, a bandit group showed up, ransacked my home, and chased me into the woods. I glanced to the side, my voice quieter now. I ended up near Kora, but the villagers didnt care. They called me a freeloader, a thief. Beat me up and threw me out. Her grin faded. Her eyes shifted toward me, and this time, she didnt look amused. Thats rough, she muttered. Yeah, I said, brushing my thumb over the edge of my sleeve like it was nothing. There were two Noxivera in that crowd. They did most of the damage. So, when I saw you back in the street that day I hesitated, glancing at her wings. I thought you were one of them. Thought maybe you followed me. Thought I was after you? she asked, her tone more curious than offended. I nodded. So, after they kicked you out, what happened? I stayed in a cave for a while, I said, my gaze distant like I was replaying it in my head. But hungers a nasty thing. I went back to the village hoping maybe maybe theyd listen this time. But turns out, I didnt have to. The whole place got attacked. I rubbed the back of my neck, looking anywhere but at her. Figured Id scavenge for supplies. Thats when the goblin spotted me. Yikes, she muttered, folding her arms. Her gaze lingered on me for a second too long, her eyes sharp with thought. Yeah, I said. Fun times. Why lie about it? she asked, her steps matching mine as we neared the doors. Thats not even that bad of a story. Just tell people. I shook my head. Dont want them knowing I was alone in the forest. A loner. I muttered. Can you keep this between us? Her wings shifted, giving a lazy flap as she glanced up toward the sky like she had to think it over. Fine, she said with a shrug. But only if you follow through on helping me with this quest. Deal, I said, stepping through the double doors as they creaked open. The world outside stretched wide with the afternoon sun catching the rooftops and cobblestone streets. The fresh air hit my face, cool but welcome. Thanks, Mox. Dont mention it, she said, walking ahead with her hands behind her head. No, seriouslydont mention it. People start thinking Im nice, Ill never hear the end of it. Chapter 88: Patience The lie held firm, rooted in something real. Id seen a burnt-down hut by the bridge a few days back. Its charred remains looked like theyd been abandoned for weeks, maybe longer. No one alive would claim it now. It was a convenient cover story, and for now, it kept Mox off my back. But I had to be careful. Lies like this had a way of snowballing. Sticking to myself was the only option. People werent safe. Id learned that the hard way with Suzan. Shed seemed kindgentle evenwith her soft-spoken words and tender care for those elves and their dogs. But kindness here wasnt free. It was a mask, and by the time I realized it, I was strapped to a table, seconds away from being carved up like meat. This world---it didnt want me here. And, honestly, I didnt want it either. Every shadow was a threat. Every kindness was a setup. Back home, I knew how to navigate the concrete jungle and selfish people. Here, it felt like the world itself was trying to tear me apart. Looks like the rain is finally stopping, Mox muttered, flicking her wings out with a few quick beats. Droplets scattered off them like tiny gemstones. Took long enough. I glanced at her wings, droplets still clinging to the edges. Hmm. Bad for drying, she said, tilting her head toward me. Takes forever. I can imagine. Imagine me being naked and drying my wings? She asked, a hint of sarcasm in her voice. My eyes met hers, flat as stone. I said nothing, just stared until her grin faded. Then I turned forward, matching her pace but keeping a half-step behind her. Let her think whatever she wanted. I wasnt playing her game. Ugh, youre no fun, she muttered, folding her arms as she walked. Do you always just suck the air out of a room like that? Only when Im in it, I replied. Yeah, well, its working. She clicked her tongue and kicked a pebble down the path. It bounced off a tree root, vanishing into the brush. Her gaze slid back to me. Why were you living in that hut anyway? What happened to your parents? I didnt miss a beat. Theyre dead. My eyes stayed forward, not giving her anything else to latch onto. And stop asking questions. Alright, alright, she said, lifting her hands like Id pulled a blade on her. No need to snap. She walked in silence for a bit, hands swinging casually at her sides. Touchy subject. Got it. Hey, Axel! A familiar voice called from behind. I turned to see Aiden jogging toward us, his face tense. His steps were quick, like he had news he didnt want to share but had to anyway. I stopped, waiting for him to catch up. Whats wrong? Its Seker, Aiden said, his breath sharp from the short run. Hes missing. I tilted my head, feigning confusion. Maybe he skipped school? Aiden shook his head, his eyes darting to the ground, his fingers raking through his hair. No, he wouldve told me. And he wasnt there when Leo and I woke up this morning. Just... gone. His pacing picked up, back and forth like his thoughts were spinning too fast to control. He wouldnt do that. Not without telling one of us. I couldve told him we went to visit his mom. Couldve told him about how that visit ended. But that wouldve led to more questions, and I didnt have the energyor the patiencefor that. So I stayed silent, letting Aiden burn off his worry while I stared at him with the same dull, steady look I always gave people.This tale has been unlawfully lifted from Royal Road; report any instances of this story if found elsewhere. Eventually, he stopped pacing, his breath coming slower. He glanced up at me, eyes half-hopeful. You sure you didnt see him? Didnt see him, I said flatly. Alright. He scratched at his neck. If you do, let me know, yeah? He started walking backward, his eyes still on me. See you. Yeah, I replied, already turning away. See you. Mox watched Aiden leave. Who was that? No one, I muttered, picking up my pace. No one, huh? She glanced at me, her wings shifting with a slow motion. Youre pretty cold, you know that? Im not cold, I said, not looking at her. Im just tired. Her brow lifted in surprise. Tired of what? Of this place. Of this world. Of pretending. Of every conversation feeling like a game where the wrong answer costs too much. But I didnt say that. I kept my eyes ahead, my steps steady, and gave her the version that would end the talk the quickest. Tired in general, I muttered. That elf ambush messed me up. Still feeling it. Mm, she hummed. Sure. Thats a valid reason, I guess. She walked ahead of me, leaving me half a step behind. We stepped through the gates, our pace steady as we headed toward the dormitories. The rain had eased into a light drizzle, and with the weather improving, more people filled the streets. Stalls lined the sides of the road, vendors calling out to passersby, their voices blending into the hum of the city. Guards were everywherestationed on the streets, tucked into alleyways, and even perched on rooftops like hawks on watch. Their eyes scanned the crowd, alert for any sign of trouble. I hadnt thought much about how powerful Nutar was as a country or how secure Kinowa was as a city, but with this many guards around, it was clear they werent taking any risks. Their sheer presence felt like a show of strengthor maybe fear. Ahead of me, Mox glanced over her shoulder, her gaze drifting toward me. I met her eyes, waiting for her to speak, but she only turned her head back to face the road. Her expression was unreadable, her face as still as stone. Whatever was on her mind, she wasnt letting it slip. So, she began, her voice calm but firm, have you decided to join the tournament yet? Not really, I replied, stuffing my hands into my pockets. "Too risky for my taste." Wheres the fun if theres no risk? She raised a brow, a slight grin tugging at the corner of her mouth. Besides, people bet on those fights. Twice the thrill. Hmm. I kept my eyes forward, kicking a loose stone along the path. Whens it supposed to start? In a few days, she said, glancing up at the sky like she was counting the days in her head. Normally, thered be training going on right now, but since the whole elves in the city thing happened, they called it off. Figures, I muttered. The conversation fizzled out after that. We walked in comfortable silence for a while, letting the chatter of the street fill the void. More stalls popped up along the road, kids darted around playing make-believe battles with sticks for swords and scraps of wood for shields. Their laughter echoed, loud and carefree, as if the world outside didnt exist. Mox slowed her pace, letting me catch up until we were walking side by side. She shot me a quick look, her eyes sharp but not unkind, before turning her attention back to the road ahead. Whyd you go hunting for a rabbit? she asked, her tone casual but curious. The boys'' dormitorys got one of the best chefs in the school, doesnt it? Just wanted to practice my aim. Right. Her eyes lingered on me for a second longer. My father taught me how to shoot. Once you figure it out, its like second nature. Its all about patience and steady hands. Patience, huh? I sighed. Yeah, Ill need plenty of that. Trust me, you will, she said, smirking. We rounded a corner, and the dormitories came into viewone for boys, one for girls. The streets here were livelier. Students sat on benches, talking in small groups, while others strolled along the pathways, some with bags slung over their shoulders, likely returning from class. The air felt lighter here, like it belonged to a world separate from the watchful guards and tense streets behind us. Come on, Mox said, picking up her pace. Lets get inside before the weather turns ugly again. Yeah, I muttered. Lets go. Chapter 89: Royal treatment With a brisk pace, we reached the end of the street. Mox veered right toward the girls dormitory, her eyes fixed ahead, while I made my way to an empty bench beneath a tree. The rain had left it damp, so I wiped it down with my hand before sitting. The air smelled fresh, a mix of wet earth and faint greenery. It was a spacious, round plaza with the boys and girls dormitories on opposite sides. Trees lined the area, some with leaves that had already turned yellow, others still clinging to their green. The faint rustle of the breeze stirred the branches, adding to the quiet rhythm of the city. Minutes passed. I sat with my elbows on my knees, watching students stroll by in pairs or small groups, some talking, others just walking in silence. It wasn''t long before Mox reappeared, stepping out of the dormitory with two shields balanced on one arm and two swords gripped in her hands. They looked far too heavy for her size, but she moved like it was no big deal. I stood up, crossing the plaza to meet her. Here, I got it, I said, taking the shields in one hand and the swords in the other. The shields had proper grips, so holding them was easy enough. But the swords were a different story. I held one by the hilt while the other dangled awkwardly between my wrist and forearm, the weight tugging it down like an unruly child. You have a sheath, Mox said, glancing at my back. Hold still. I raised a brow. Huh? Before I could react, she grabbed one of the swords and slid it smoothly into the sheath on my back. I hadnt even realized it was there. Her hands moved fast, making sure it was secured tight before giving my shoulder a quick pat. Didnt know I had that, I muttered, rolling my shoulder to test the fit. I couldve just tossed everything into my inventory using the translucent box menu, but that wasnt something people here were used to seeing. No need to raise eyebrows over a bit of extra weight. Ready? she asked, stepping ahead of me. Yeah. She pulled a folded piece of paper from her back pocket, her eyes scanning it briefly before tucking it away. I caught a glimpsea map, from what I could tell. Its kind of far, she said over her shoulder, motioning for me to follow. Stick close. Got it. She glanced at me as we started walking, eyes flicking toward the shields in my hand. Heavy? Kinda, I admitted, shifting them around to get a better grip. She grinned. You shouldve seen me hauling them up to my room. Used a wind spell to float the shields. Thought I was smart until it drained all my mana. She shook her head with a quiet laugh. Still havent fully recovered. I nodded and fell into step behind her. Carrying all this gear felt surprisingly manageable. I wasnt exactly built for heavy lifting, but thanks to that translucent box system, Id put a few points into strength without even thinking much of it. Good thing too. Without it, Id be dropping these swords every other step. Out of the corner of my eye, I spotted two familiar figures walking toward the boys dormitoryLeo and Aiden. Their faces were tight with worry, their pace brisk. Looked like they still hadnt found Seker. Not surprising, given everything that had happened with her mother. Some people just needed space. At the far end of the street, the clatter of hooves on cobblestone drew my attention. A large carriage rolled in, nearly as big as the Queens, pulled by a pair of sturdy horses. It came to a slow halt, its polished exterior gleaming despite the rain-slicked roads. The door swung open, and a man stepped out. Round in figure, clean-shaven, with a bald head that caught the daylight like polished stone. His clothes were too finerich fabrics that practically screamed, Look at me, Im important. Two guards, each clad in heavy armor, flanked him as he descended. Their movements were sharp, their eyes scanning the area like they expected trouble. I tilted my head toward the scene. Whos that guy? Who cares, Mox replied, barely glancing his way. Just another rich guy with too much free time. Probably here to watch the training. She snorted. Bet he doesnt even know its canceled. Hes that out of touch.Unauthorized use of content: if you find this story on Amazon, report the violation. I shifted my gaze back to the man, watching as he dusted off his sleeves and barked something at the guards. They moved in sync, like cogs in a machine, ready to escort him wherever he pleased. This tournament pulls in a crowd, huh? Big one, she said, eyes forward. People take it seriously. Too seriously, if you ask me. Five-versus-five matches, right? I asked, gripping the sword''s hilt a little tighter. Yep, she said, brushing a strand of hair out of her face. Redwoods gonna hold a pre-tournament first. Teams fight each other, and whoever wins gets to enter the main event. Sounds exciting, I muttered, voice flat as ever. More like corrupt, she replied with a small scoff. Yeah, I added, glancing around the street. Bet theres a ton of backroom deals. Bribes, threatspeople telling other teams to throw matches so the team they bet on can win. Mox turned her head, giving me a curious look. You seem to know a lot about that. Everyone knows that, I said with a shrug, eyes locked on the path ahead. "Seen it happen before." However, it seemed like Mox was wrong. He wasnt just some random rich jerk. The fat mans gaze locked onto me the moment he spun around, his face lighting up with a grin that sent a jolt of unease down my spine. His eyes didnt waver as he strode toward me, his polished shoes clicking softly against the wet cobblestone. Beside me, Mox slowed her pace, one brow arched, her eyes darting from him to me. I mirrored her look, though I kept my face neutral, my eyes steady on the mans approach. Do I know him? I thought, scanning his features. Bald, clean-shaven, finely dressed like he owned half the city---nope, no clue. And I had no desire to know him either. He stopped just a few paces from me, his thick frame casting a short shadow in the cloudy daylight. Without even glancing at Mox, he bowed his head ever so slightly, his gaze fixed solely on me. I returned the nod slowly, saying nothing. If he wanted to talk, hed have to start the conversation himself. Mr. Millo, he said, his voice smooth but with an edge of arrogance. The Queen wishes to thank you personally. You are cordially invited to dine with Her Majesty this evening. There will be other guests in attendance as well. I blinked, momentarily thrown off. I what? My voice came out flat, as if the words didnt register properly. Why? You saved her life, he said as if it were the most obvious thing in the world. Her Majesty believes such heroism deserves recognition. And, of course, gratitude. He smiled wider. A carriage will arrive at seven to escort you to the palace. Theres really no need for that, I replied, stepping back a little. Im fine without dinner. Really. His smile didnt fade right away, but I saw the shift in his eyesthat brief flicker of annoyance. He turned his head slightly, his gaze cutting toward his guards. Boys, execu--- On second thought, I interrupted, raising my hand. Ill be there. The smile snapped back into place. Wonderful news, Mr. Millo. He clasped his hands together like a man whod just closed a business deal. Wear your finest attire. We wouldnt want you to stand out for the wrong reasons. See you tonight. With that, he pivoted on his heel, his coat swishing as he strode toward his carriage. Mox and I stood still, watching him leave. My shoulders sagged as I let out a long sigh, eyes closing for a brief second to process the mess Id just been dragged into. Dinner with the Queen or death by hanging. Fantastic options. Just fantastic. Mox clicked her tongue, giving me a side glance. Royal treatment, huh? Yeah, royal treatment, I muttered, rubbing the back of my neck. Bet theyll serve me poison as dessert. The fat man reached the carriage but didnt climb in just yet. Instead, he turned to face me, one hand on the door handle. His grin returned, sharper this time, his eyes squinting like hed just remembered something important. Oh, and one last thing, Mr. Millo, he called out. Be mindful of the company you keep. His gaze flicked briefly to Mox, the implication clear. After all, you cant trust anyone but your own kind. Asswipe, Mox muttered under her breath, eyes narrowing into sharp slits. I didnt say anything, just hummed in quiet agreement, my eyes fixed on him. He wouldn''t hear it, but it wasnt meant for him anyway. Goodbye, Mr. Millo, he added, his smile never faltering. And do check your pockets after being around questionable sorts. You never know what might go missing. See you tonight. The carriage door shut with a firm thud, and a moment later, the horses snorted and began trotting forward. Their hooves clicked against the wet stone, splashing through shallow puddles. Mox and I stayed rooted in place, eyes following the carriage until it reached the end of the street, made a left turn, and vanished behind the buildings. The weight of the moment settled in my chest. I glanced down at the swords and shields in my hands, then up at the gray sky. The clouds had thinned, letting bits of pale sunlight break through. Bring my best attire? I muttered to myself. I dont even have any. Chapter 90: Jump at that offer Moxs hand curled into a tight fist, her knuckles going pale. She held it like that for a moment before releasing it with a sharp exhale. Her gaze stayed fixed ahead, her jaw tense, and I didnt need to guess how she felt. Anger, not sadness. The kind of anger that simmers just under the surface, quiet but sharp. I didnt say anything. No awkward attempt to lighten the mood or some hollow reassurance. People like Mox didnt need that. I stayed where I was, silent and steady, waiting for her to move. We still had weapons to deliver, and while the stat boosts Id been getting helped with the weight, it didnt make them light. With a sigh, Mox started walking again. Her steps were steady, but I could tell she hadnt fully let it go. Her eyes stayed forward, her face calm, but there was still a weight in her movements, something unresolved. The higher-ups really hate us, she muttered, her voice low but clear. Seems that way, I replied. They say that when Nutar was taken by the elves, only the humans fought back. The other races joined the elves. Sounds like propaganda. Exactly, she said, her pace quickening just a bit. We all fought, we all suffered. But that little lie gives the Queen and her family all the justification they need to keep us down. Hmm. Yeah, forget about that racist bastard, she said with a shake of her head. So, dinner with the Queen, huh? Lucky guy. Lucky? I shot her a glance. Sure. Lucky. She let out a short laugh, glancing at me from the corner of her eye. Not excited? Anyone else would jump at that offer. I guess Im not anyone. Her eyes lingered on me for a second longer, her gaze sharp like she was trying to see past my face. She gave a small nod, lips curling into a faint smirk. Yeah. Youre definitely not. I didnt bother asking what she meant by that. People always loved to act cryptic like it gave them more depth. I stayed quiet, keeping my eyes on the path ahead. If she wanted to explain herself, she would. But she didnt. Instead, she picked up the pace, her boots clapping steadily on the stone. I caught her side-eyeing me once before she moved ahead. With her walking faster, I adjusted my grip on the weapons, the weight of the shields pressing awkwardly into my forearm. It didnt help that Id skipped breakfast. My stomach grumbled just thinking about it. We rounded a corner, and I shifted my hold again, lifting the shields higher so the edge wouldnt dig into my wrist. Mox didnt slow down, so I had to double-time it just to keep pace. Hey, how much further is this place? I asked, trying to steady my breathing. Few more minutes, she replied without looking back. Tired already? Just hungry, I muttered. Skipped breakfast. Why? She asked. Youve got the best chef in Kinowa cooking for you. Some say hes better than the Queens own. Didnt know moustache man was famous, I said, adjusting the shield in my grip. She snickered, shaking her head. Killora. Thats his name. But yeah, ''moustache man'' works too. Whys a chef that good working in the boys dorm instead of the Queens kitchen?The author''s tale has been misappropriated; report any instances of this story on Amazon. Mox pulled the map from her back pocket, eyes scanning it for a second. His stepmother was an elf, she said, refolding the paper and tucking it away. Ah. I nodded slowly, the pieces clicking into place. So no chance hed ever get near the palace kitchen. None. She glanced at me with a half-smile. Her pace picked up again, and I followed, shifting my grip on the weapons once more. My arms were getting sore, and I could feel the slight burn in my biceps. Anyways, Mox said, her tone lighter now, were close. Few more minutes, tops. Hmm. Her eyes drifted toward me, brow raised, a smirk tugging at her lips. You grunt a lot, you know that? I dont know, I said with a shrug. Just dont have much to say, I guess. Oh, really? Her grin widened, eyes narrowing with mischief. Never wouldve guessed. Hmm I muttered again, and this time I heard her snicker under her breath. TTTTTT?TTTTTT Mox double-checked the map, turning it slightly before folding it back into her pocket. She knocked firmly on the door, her knuckles tapping out a steady rhythm. I set the weapons down with a heavy thud, letting out a long breath as I leaned my back against the wall. My legs gave in, and I slid down until I was sitting on the ground, forearms resting on my knees. We were in front of a two-story house with barred windows, each one sealed shut with thick black curtains. The door looked sturdier than mostnot the usual wood found in the nearby houses. It wasnt quite metal either, something in between. Probably a material I wasnt familiar with. A glance behind me revealed a small shop down the alley, maybe ten meters away. Looked like a clothing store, with racks of folded garments just visible past the open doorway. The alley itself was cramped, barely wide enough for a cart to squeeze through. Trees lined the sides, their branches stretching far enough to brush against some of the house''s second-story windows. Shadows shifted with the swaying of the branches, making the place feel a little more eerie than it needed to be. Mox rubbed her arms, eyes darting around. "Weird place," she muttered, her eyes narrowing as she glanced at the barred windows. "Kinda creepy, not gonna lie." "It is," I agreed, letting my head rest against the wall. Where did you pick this job? Her gaze stayed on the house for a moment longer before shifting to me. "Where else? The Guild, of course," she said, her tone defensive, like Id accused her of something. "Simple delivery. Grab some stuff from Birillos blacksmith shop, bring it here. Thats it. I tilted my head toward the pile of weapons. "Whats this person need all these for? Dont know, she said with a shrug, knocking on the door again, louder this time. Didnt ask. Pay was good, so I took it. Could be a dangerous guy, I muttered, watching the shadows shift behind the curtains. Dont be paranoid. Its just a delivery. Before I could reply, the door creaked open an inch, just enough for a pair of eyes to peek through. We both froze, our eyes locked on the small gap. It was pitch black inside, no lantern light, no glow from a hearth. Nothing. The strangers gaze shifted to the weapons on the ground, lingering for a moment before snapping back to us. Then, without a word, the door shut with a soft thunk. I turned my eyes to Mox, brow raised in silent question. She tilted her head, equally confused. I looked down as a folded piece of paper slipped out from under the door, landing by Moxs boot. Her brows furrowed as she bent down to pick it up, flipping it open with a flick of her thumb. She read it silently at first, eyes narrowing. I got up and walked toward her, leaned over her shoulder, my eyes scanning the message. Im scared of Noxiveras. Please go. I read aloud, my voice as flat as my expression. Unbelievable, she muttered, crumpling the paper into a tight ball. With a sharp snap of her wrist, she hurled it at the door. It bounced off with a hollow thud and landed at her feet. Bastard, she growled, her wings twitching slightly beneath her cloak. Absolute bastard. Looks like were done here. Yeah, Mox muttered, giving the crumpled ball of paper a kick down the alley. Lets get out of here. We turned away from the house, the echo of our footsteps filling the narrow alley. Her jaw was tight, and her eyes stayed forward, but I could tell the whole thing had gotten under her skin. "So," I started, glancing her way, "when am I getting that bow?" She glanced at me, her eyes still sharp with frustration, but the corner of her mouth twitched upward. How about right now? she said, flicking her head in the direction of the main street. Come on. Without waiting for me to answer, she strode ahead, her pace brisk. I followed close behind, stepping over the fallen paper ball as we left the alley behind. TTTTTT?TTTTTT Chapter 91: It missed "One more try, come on!" Mox''s voice had that pushy edge, like a trainer who''d seen enough failure to find it funny. "Hmm" I grumbled, fingers already gripping another arrow. We were by the well in the forest, where shed lined up a few empty bottles on the edge like they were waiting for their turn to get shattered. It was my fourth shot, and if Im being honest, it was probably worse than the first. The first shot? Pathetic. The arrow barely left the string before it flopped onto the ground like it had given up on life. Mox hadnt even laughed at that onejust stared at it, like she needed time to process how someone could be that bad. Every shot after that was more of the same, with me missing so wide that I was starting to think I had a secret grudge against the air itself. Mox rubbed her temples, sighing so deeply it might have pulled the leaves from the trees. She stepped behind me, nudging my shoulder. "Alright, eyes up. See those bottles? Yeah? Aim at them, not the dirt." "Yeah, yeah." I adjusted my grip on the bow. Hold your breath. Nock the arrow. Pull the string. Her voice was steady, patient but firm. She moved behind me, her hands resting lightly on mine, guiding them into place. Release your breath first, then the string. "Got it," I muttered, eyes fixed on the bottle like it owed me money. Her fingers pressed over mine, and together, we pulled back the string. I took a breath in sync with her, feeling her chest press lightly against my back. I tried not to think about it. Just breathe. Aim. Breathe out. The string snapped free. The arrow soared straight---and buried itself in the side of the well. Mox''s head tilted, mouth hanging open in disbelief. "Huh." She walked over to the well, hands on her hips as she stared at the arrow like it was an art piece in a gallery. Wow. You suck. Story of my life, I muttered, slumping my shoulders. Thought you''d be bad, she added, pulling the arrows free from the well. "But not this bad. While she gathered the rest of the arrows, I opened the menu and checked the map for possible hunting locations. It displayed potential hunting spotssome areas had a rabbit icon, like where we were, while others had icons for bears and other creatures. Hovering my finger over a certain area, a screen popped up to the right. It showed how much of the area had been explored and what activities I had completed. It also displayed how many animals I could hunt before the First Time bonus ended. It seemed that after a certain number of animals, the boost would end, and I would start earning the normal amount of points. I checked the location where we were on the map. =================== Forgotten Well =================== Memory Fragments: ?? Hunted Animals: ????? Side Activities: ??? - Pick up 10 Jerona flowers - Loot two chests - Discover all ? in the area =================== On the map, there seemed to be quite a few question marks scattered about, waiting to be discovered. If I could uncover them all, Id gain a lot of experience points. Handy. When she returned, she slapped an arrow into my palm with a little extra force. I took it without a word, already bracing for round five of this embarrassment.If you encounter this tale on Amazon, note that it''s taken without the author''s consent. Report it. Come on, she said, standing behind me again. "Same thing. Breathe, aim, pull, release." Her hands settled on mine, steadying the bow. I drew the string, breathing with her again, but this time, something felt different. I noticed her wings shift slightly, brushing softly against my sides. Her chest pressed just a little more firmly against my back, not enough to be intentional, but enough to notice. My heart jumped, and before I could stop myself, my fingers slipped. The arrow shot off like a wild bird, vanishing into the treeline with a faint fwip. We both watched it disappear. Mox slowly stepped back, hands on her hips again, lips pressing into a thin, unimpressed line. She sat on a nearby boulder, elbows on her knees, watching me like I was a particularly bad actor in a stage play. "Maybe archerys just not your thing, she said, resting her chin in her hand. Youve got magic, dont you? Pretty good with spells for an F-class. I rubbed the back of my neck, eyes still on the treeline. Cant hunt with a fireball. Her wings gave a small flick as she snorted. Youve got the best chef in Kinowa, Axel. Why would you even want to hunt? What, is this a hobby or something? Something like that, I lied. She side-eyed me for a second, then shrugged. Alright. Try again, then. "You can go if you want," I said, gripping the bow tighter. "Looks like Ill be at this for a while." Mox''s gaze didnt budge. That supposed to be your polite way of saying, I want to be alone, so get lost? She raised an eyebrow. Yeah, pretty sure thats what that was. "Not really." I glanced at her, then back at the bottles. "Figured you''d get bored watching me fumble with a bow for another hour." "Mm, nah." She leaned back on her hands, eyes still on me. "Its actually kinda funny. Never seen someone this bad with a bow. I mean, its impressive in a way." "Must be nice." Come on, take another shot, hotshot. Lets see where it lands this time. Probably the moon, I muttered, lifting the bow again. Her laughter echoed through the forest, light and sharp like the snap of a twig. This was just oddly calming. And embarrassing. Taking another shot, I drew the string back and released it, only to watch the arrow veer sharply to the right, stabbing into the dirt like it had somewhere else to be. Great, I muttered under my breath, grabbing another arrow. This time, I pulled the string slower, steadying my breath. I focused on the bottle in front of me, locked in, and released. The arrow soared through the airand vanished into the distance, probably on its way to ruin some bird''s day. A long sigh slipped from me as I dragged myself toward the well, picking up the stray arrows. My steps crunched lightly on the forest floor, the scent of damp earth faint in the air. At least the weather was decentcloudy but not cold, and the wind wasnt strong enough to send trees swaying. Small blessings. I returned to my spot, twirling an arrow between my fingers before sliding it onto the bowstring. My arms were starting to feel it, the dull ache of repetitive motion settling in. I raised the bow, lined up my shot, and prepared to fire again. Dont hold your breath, Mox called out, leaning forward from her spot on the boulder. And dont pull the string too far. That bows older than me. Snap it, and youre walking home unarmed. "Got it," I replied, eyes locked on the bottle. This time, I listened. I pulled the string just enough, let out a slow breath, and let it fly. The arrow zipped through the air, brushing past one of the bottles so close it wobbled in place like it might tip over. It didnt, but it moved. That was good enough for me. I glanced at Mox, expecting a snarky comment, but she only raised her eyebrows. Not bad, hotshot. she said, brushing a strand of hair behind her ear. Thats the best shot youve had so far. Yeah, I muttered, my eyes still on the bottles. Felt different that time. Uh-huh. See? Not as hard as youre making it out to be. She leaned back, hands behind her head like she was ready to nap. Her wings folded closer to her back, their tips twitching every so often. I nocked another arrow, fingers finding the string naturally this time. Didnt exactly have anyone to teach me. I kept my voice flat, eyes focused on the target. "No father around to show me the ropes like you. Her grin faltered. Her hands dropped from behind her head, fingers running through her hair awkwardly. "Ugh dont pull that guilt trip on me," she groaned, eyes flicking to the side. I was just messing with you. My bad, alright? Yeah, yeah, I muttered, raising the bow again. Come on, less talking, more shooting, she said, standing up and dusting her hands on her pants. Her wings gave a small stretch before settling back into place. She tilted her head toward me, eyes sharp with mischief. You still gotta get ready for your date with the Queen, hotshot. Better hurry it up! Date, huh? I asked, drawing the string back once more. You call hanging by the neck ''a date'' where you''re from? Her laugh was sharp and loud, echoing through the trees. "Yeah, yeah, keep that energy. Youre gonna need it when youre choking down that royal food." I let the arrow fly. It missed, of course Chapter 92: Get used to it Just as I reached for another arrow, a flicker of movement caught my attention. My head snapped to the right, eyes narrowing on the source. There, hopping near the bushes, was a rabbit. Not just any rabbitit was that rabbit. The same one Suzan and I had seen back at the cabin. The black mark on its head was unmistakable, and its upper coat had that familiar darker shade compared to its lower body. I blinked, half-expecting it to vanish, but it stayed. For once, luck was on my side. No need to wander the forest searching for a targetit had come right to me. Finally, something easy for a change. Hmm But then, reality hit me. Id never killed an animal before. Flies? Sure. Ants? Plenty. But this wasnt a bug I could swat away. This was a living, breathing creature. My grip on the bow tightened, heart thumping against my ribs. Its just a rabbit, I told myself. People do this all the time. My arms tensed as I raised the bow, fingers lightly pinching the arrow''s shaft. My breath slowed as I tried to line up the shot. But my chest felt heavier with each second I aimed. I could hear my pulse thudding in my ears. My fingers twitched. Slowly, I lowered the bow, letting out a breath I didnt realize I was holding. The arrow slipped from my hand as I glanced down, jaw tight. The rabbit''s ears twitched. It sniffed the air, head tilting in that curious way rabbits do. Then, without warning, it bolted, vanishing into the underbrush like a ghost. I sighed, shoulders slumping. Mox must''ve seen it too because she stood, dusting herself off. She walked over, her eyes sharp as she scanned the bush where the rabbit disappeared. Her wings gave a quick flick before settling. Thought you were hunting rabbits, she said, not even looking at me. Her gaze stayed on the bush. You didnt even try to shoot. I I hesitated, rubbing the back of my neck. Ive never killed an animal before. ''Kill'' is the wrong word, she said, her wings twitching again. Hunt. Youre hunting rabbits. Youre using what nature provides. Theres a difference. I tilted my head back, staring at the sky as if it had answers. "Yeah, I guess you''re right, I muttered, shrugging. "Doesn''t make it easier, though." "Doesn''t have to be," she replied, brushing past me to sit back on her boulder. So, thats it? You done? I glanced at the spot where the rabbit had been. The quest wasnt worth it, not really. Id failed plenty of things before, and letting this one go wouldnt be the end of the world. But curiosity itched at me. Id been wondering about this item material the quest had mentioned. It felt like a mystery dangling just out of reach, and the only way to solve it was to see it through. But to get there Id have to do it. I gnawed on my lip, eyes locked on the dirt. My fingers flexed, curling into fists before relaxing again. When I glanced back up, Mox was watching me, her gaze steady. No teasing this time. No smirks or jabs. Just quiet observation. With a resigned breath, I nodded. My fingers wrapped around the bow''s grip like I was holding onto something more than wood and string. If I was going to do this, Id have to do it properly. Youre right, I said, meeting her eyes. We still have time. I lifted the bow. Will you help me hunt it? Moxs grin was quick and sharp. About time, hotshot, she said, already turning toward the forest. Come on. Lets track that little rascal. I followed her through the trees, the crunch of leaves and soft squelch of mud underfoot filling the air. She moved with ease, stepping lightly over roots and weaving through the bushes like shed done it a hundred times before. I did my best to keep up, ducking under branches and hopping over puddles. Mox crouched suddenly, her sharp eyes locked on something ahead. She reached out, parting a bush to reveal a patch of dirt. Her finger jabbed at the ground, tracing a small, dark cluster. See that? she asked, tilting her head toward it. Droppings. I leaned in, squinting at the mess of leaves, dirt, and... yeah, no mistaking it. Yeah, I see it, I muttered, wrinkling my nose. Charming. That means it just pooped here, she added like I needed clarification. I shot her a flat look. I know what droppings are, Mox. But thanks for the insightful commentary. She shrugged, her wings twitching with mock innocence. Considering your expertise with hunting, I figured a lesson wouldn''t hurt. So thoughtful of you. Anyway, she said, leaning forward to brush away some leaves. Her finger trailed over small imprints in the soft mud. See these tracks? Fresh. It went that way. She pointed toward a narrow path leading deeper into the woods.If you discover this tale on Amazon, be aware that it has been unlawfully taken from Royal Road. Please report it. I nodded, adjusting the bow on my shoulder. Alright. Lead the way. Im right behind you. She glanced back, her eyes glinting with a spark of approval. Try not to spook it this time. I didnt spook it. It just ran off. Sure, hotshot, she said, grinning as she started forward. Just dont freeze up and let it escape again. Yeah, yeah. I stepped after her, feeling the damp chill of the forest air sink into my clothes. Good, she said, eyes scanning the ground ahead. So, whats with the sudden change of heart? Like I said, just trying to learn the ropes, I replied, keeping my eyes on the tracks. Cant give up now. I wasnt about to tell her the truththat a translucent quest box was urging me to hunt down a rabbit in exchange for some mystery reward. Telling her that would just raise more questions, ones I didnt have answers for. The box had saved me before, but it still freaked me out. Invisible quests, strange powers, and now I was about to kill a rabbit. None of this felt normal. Mox crouched again, her eyes sharp as she scanned the ground. She changed direction and I followed closely, each step accompanied by the wet squelch of mud beneath our boots. You know a lot about hunting, I said, stepping over a root that jutted out of the ground. Not a lot, she replied, stepping lightly past a low-hanging branch. Just the basics. I can track and hunt small animals. The simple stuff. What about the not simple stuff? I asked, glancing around like something big might be watching us. She glanced over her shoulder, smirking. Like bears or drakes? Nah. I avoid them. If I catch wind of one nearby, I change direction real fast. Are we... close to any of those not simple animals right now? Her grin widened as she faced forward again. Nope. They dont hang around near cities. Good. Probably, she added. I stopped mid-step. Probably? She chuckled, her wings giving a small flick. Sometimes a little uncertainty makes life exciting, hotshot. Sometimes not getting mauled by a bear is all the excitement I need, Mox. Gloomy as ever, she teased, stepping over a fallen branch. Relax. Id hear them before they got close. Her head tilted forward, eyes narrowing. Wait I see it. See what? Her voice dropped to a whisper as she pointed ahead. There. See it? I crouched beside her, peering through the underbrush. The rabbit was there, alright, its tiny chest rising and falling fast. But something was off. Its breaths were shallow, wheezy, and its little body trembled as if life itself was leaking out of it. Blood trickled from the corner of its mouth, its eyes half-lidded in exhaustion. Mox crept forward, her boots barely making a sound. She crouched beside it, tilting her head as she spotted something next to the rabbita chunk of bright orange. She picked it up, sniffed it, and immediately pulled back, grimacing. Poisoned, she said, tossing the carrot aside. Her lips curled into a look of disgust. Farmers do it sometimes. Keeps rabbits and other pests from wrecking their crops. Huh I muttered, feeling something churn in my chest. Come on, she said, straightening up. She gestured toward the bow hanging at my side. Heres your chance. Its suffering anyway. End it. My heart gave a sharp thud in my chest. I swallowed hard, my gaze flicking between her and the rabbit. Right, I muttered, slowly stepping forward. The rabbit wheezed, its breaths shallow. It didnt move as I crouched over it, didnt even flinch. It couldnt. My fingers trembled as I reached back, pulling an arrow from the quiver. I nocked it slowly, trying not to let the sound of the string draw my attention away. Just do it. Quick. Its already dying. Its the right thing to do. I took a breath, pulling the bowstring back, aiming down at it. The arrowhead hovered over the rabbits small frame. It didnt look at me. It didnt squirm. It just lay there, its chest rising and falling like a broken bellows. My grip wavered. This wasnt a game. This wasnt training with bottles on a well. This was real. A real life, right in front of me. I squeezed my eyes shut, holding my breath as my fingers loosened. The string twanged, and a sharp thunk echoed through the forest. Silence. I opened my eyes. The arrow was buried deep in the rabbit''s chest, its body still and quiet. No more wheezing. No more struggling. Just stillness. I lowered the bow, staring at it for a moment too long. Hmm Mox walked up beside me, her expression unreadable. She glanced at me, then down at the rabbit, then back at me. Her eyes lingered on my face for a moment before she crouched beside the rabbit. You did it, she said softly, plucking the arrow free. She wiped the blood from its tip on a patch of grass. Wasnt pretty, but you did it. I sat back on my heels, rubbing my face with one hand. My fingers felt cold, and my chest felt tight. Yeah I muttered, letting out a long, shaky breath. I did. She glanced at me, her gaze softer than usual. Dont feel bad, hotshot. You did it clean. Better than letting it suffer. I nodded, not trusting my voice. Mox stood, patting the dirt from her knees. Alright, come on. Well make something useful out of it. No point wasting it now. She held a hand out to me. I hesitated before grabbing her hand. Her grip was firm as she pulled me to my feet. First times always rough, she said, giving me a small grin. But youll get used to it. I stared at the rabbits still body one last time. My heart felt heavy, but I shoved it down. Get used to it, huh? Yeah, I muttered, slinging the bow over my shoulder. I guess I will. Chapter 93: Awfully quiet =================== NOTIFICATION =================== * Quest Completed: Bow & Arrow -------------------------------- + XP Gained: 25 + 2x Common item material -------------------------------- | Current XP: 50 / 100 -------------------------------- | Progress: ??????? ========================= Mox grabbed the rabbit by its hind legs and slung it over her shoulder with ease. Its limp body dangled, swaying slightly with each step. Blood seeped from its wound, staining the fabric of her clothes and leaving small, dark droplets on the ground every few paces. "Here," she said, handing the arrow to me while her eyes scanned my face. I stared at the arrow, hesitating for a moment before taking it. The faint warmth of fresh blood lingered on the shaft. I rubbed it clean against my pants, sighing as I did. My gaze shifted briefly to the spot where the rabbit had fallen. The earth there was dark, the leaves scattered with little splashes of red. I didnt feel as bad as I thought I would. No tears. No stomach-turning nausea. It was just still. Quiet. The kind of quiet that follows you even when you''re surrounded by noise. It wasnt guilt exactly, but there was something heavy in my chest. I wasnt sure if Id feel it every time or if this was just the first one. ========================= * Rabbit Hunted! -------------------------------- + XP Gained: 10 -------------------------------- | Current XP: 60 / 100 -------------------------------- | Progress: ?????? ========================= The translucent notification hovered in front of me, as crisp and clean as always. I blinked, eyebrows raising slightly. Ten XP? That was more than I''d gotten from fighting the bear near the cabin. It didnt make sense. One would think hunting a rabbit would be worth less than surviving a fight with a giant beast, but apparently, the box didnt see it that way. Not that it mattered. I had bigger things to think about. Like the dinner with the Queen. I exhaled slowly, my gaze drifting to the dirt road ahead. Why didnt I just run when I had the chance? Dealing with her again felt like poking a sleeping lion. Every instinct I had was screaming to stay out of her way, but somehow, Id found myself in the exact opposite position. Id have to stay sharp tonight. If I made one wrong move "Youre awfully quiet, Mox said, shifting the rabbit on her shoulder. Thinking about your fancy dinner with the Queen, huh?" Yeah, I muttered, stuffing the arrow back into my quiver. "Trying to figure out how to survive it." She smirked. With that crazy woman? Good luck. Youll need it. We walked on, moving past the old well where the bottles still sat neatly atop the stone. The wind had picked up, whistling softly through the branches, but it wasnt cold enough to be uncomfortable. Just breezy. The kind of weather that feels like it could go in any directioncalm one moment, stormy the next. I glanced at the rabbits body again. Its head lolled to the side, fur matted with blood. The sight didnt make me queasy, but it did make me think. It wasnt like the meat Id seen wrapped in plastic back in my world. This was raw, messy, real. Very real You said the rabbit was poisoned, I said. Whats the point of keeping it? Not for eating, Mox replied, eyes on the road ahead. Gonna skin it for the pelt. Hate doing it myself, though. Ill sell it to a butcher and let them deal with the mess. She glanced back at me, a sly grin tugging at her lips. "Think of it as payment for the bow and arrows you wasted. How generous of you, I muttered, my tone as flat as ever. She snickered, her wings twitching as if in amusement. I cant tell if youre being sarcastic or just naturally that dull. Take a guess. Her grin widened. Youre a weird one, Axel. Hmm. We reached the main road, stepping out of the forests shadow. The path stretched ahead, wide and mostly clear, with only a few shallow puddles scattered along the way. Mud still clung to my boots, and each step made a soft squelch sound that grated on my nerves. I tried to shake it off as I walked, but it didnt help much. Mox glanced at me as I slowed my pace, my eyes flicking to the translucent box that appeared in front of me. I pulled up the map, scanning for anything useful. The city of Kinowa was just up ahead, but something else caught my eyea small yellow exclamation mark to the east. A quest marker?A case of content theft: this narrative is not rightfully on Amazon; if you spot it, report the violation. Curiosity tugged at me. I had no idea what it was, but the idea of checking it out was already rooting itself in my mind. It could be something useful. Or dangerous. Either way, I had to know. I stopped walking. Hey, I said, eyes still on the map. You go on ahead. I need to check something. Mox tilted her head, frowning as she turned to face me. Check what? Just something, I replied, still focused on the map. Ill catch up. Her eyes narrowed with suspicion. I can come with you. Ive still got time. No, I said firmly, closing the map. Its better if I check it alone. I wont be long. Her gaze lingered on me for a moment, sharp and searching, but she shrugged it off. Suit yourself. She turned away, the rabbit swaying with her stride. Dont get eaten or whatever. See you in Kinowa. Yeah, I muttered, already walking in the direction of the marker. "See you." I headed east, back into the forest, following the slope downward. The air grew damp, and the soil became softer with each step, clinging to my boots in thick clumps. The trees around me bent into strange "S" shapes, their roots snaking across the ground like veins. It wasn''t long before the faint stench of stagnant water hit my nose. Another swamp. Great. Just what I needed. Mud sucked at my boots, making every step feel heavier than it should have been. I opened the map again, eyes locking on the yellow marker still ahead of me. With a quiet breath, I pressed on, keeping my eyes sharp. Then I heard itfaint at first, but unmistakable. A strained voice carried by the wind, broken up by wheezing breaths. I slowed my pace, ears straining to catch it again. Back... off! the voice barked, each word gasped out like it cost him everything to say it. I crouched low, eyes darting through the thick foliage. Peering through the gaps, I spotted a clearing ahead, where a wide, circular pool of water lay still and murky. In the center, a large, gray boulder jutted up like an island. Perched on top was an old man, hunched and panting, his white hair wild and matted. At the base of the boulder, a crocodile clawed at the stone, its jaws snapping with terrifying precision. It lunged, gripping the edge of the rock with its claws as its powerful tail thrashed in the water. The old man swung a cane at it, his arms trembling with the effort. The cane struck the crocodiles snout with a dull crack, but it barely flinched. Its beady eyes stayed locked on its prey. Help! the man gasped, his voice weak but desperate. Somebody, please! His cane swung down again, but this time, the crocodile caught it between its jaws. Its teeth sank into the wood, and with a sharp crunch, the cane split in half. Panic surged across the old man''s face as he stumbled back, his gaze darting around for another weapon. My heart sped up. I reached for the bow slung over my shoulder, but as I nocked an arrow, doubt settled in. One wrong shot and Id hit the old man. Too risky. I let out a slow breath, fingers twitching away from the arrow. My hands rose instead, the familiar warmth of mana swirling in my palms. Sparks flickered to life, growing into a small ball of fire hovering just above my hand. Fireball. The one spell I actually knew how to cast with some level of control. I focused on the crocodile''s broad flank. No chance of hitting the old man if I aimed there. With a flick of my fingers, I sent the fireball flying. The spell streaked through the air and struck the crocodile''s side with a flash of orange light. Heat rippled through the air, and the beast let out a low, guttural hiss. Its claws scraped the boulder as it pushed away, splashing back into the water. Ripples spread outward in slow, deliberate waves. I kept my hands up, eyes locked on the waters surface. Another fireball swirled into existence in my palms, the faint hum of mana vibrating in my fingers. The swamp was too quiet. The water settled unnervingly fast, smooth as glass. My breathing slowed, my eyes scanning for any sign of movement. Then, a surge of water exploded upward. The crocodile lunged, jaws wide, its eyes locked on me. Its entire body shot from the water with terrifying force, mud and water trailing behind it. My heart jumped into my throat. Shit. My hands moved on instinct. I poured every ounce of mana I had into the fireball, making it glow brighter, hotter, until the heat singed the air around me. With a shout, I launched it straight into the crocodiles open mouth. The blast lit up the swamp in a flash of fiery orange. The force of the explosion sent a shockwave through the air. Chunks of charred flesh and shards of bone scattered in every direction. I barely had time to react. Blood and bits of crocodile came flying toward me. Damn it I threw my hands up, an icy shimmer formed just in time. The blood and debris splattered against the ice barrier, painting it red. Droplets slid down its surface before it melted away into mist. The swamp grew quiet again. The only sounds were the faint drip of blood and the soft crackle of dying flames. I lowered my hands, breathing hard, my eyes fixed on the wreckage. What was left of the crocodile lay scattered in pieces across the water''s edge. Its head was gone. Most of its body was charred black, the air thick with the acrid stench of burnt flesh. The only part still recognizable was its tail, resting a few feet away. I stared at it, chest heaving. "Overkill..." I muttered, wiping my hands on my tunic. My heart was still racing. "Definitely overkill." Oh, thank you! The man yelled. Thank you, young man. Thank you! You saved my life! No problem. I said with a dull voice. Are you okay? Yes Id give you something but I lost my pouch thanks to that monster. No need. Its--- Quite the spectacle, a familiar voice chimed from behind me. I turned sharply, muscles tensed. Mox stood there, one hand on her hip, the other resting lightly on her sheated dagger. Her grin was smug, her eyes sharp as ever. She glanced past me, her gaze settling on the blood-soaked swamp. Cries over hunting a rabbit, she said, a slow grin spreading across her face. But hes perfectly fine blowing up a crocodile into chunks. Love the consistency. Wheres the double standards? I shot her a flat look. "Thought you left." "Nope," she replied, stepping past me. Her eyes lingered on the crocodile''s tail. She kicked it lightly with the tip of her boot, watching it roll a few inches. Big guy, too. Youre full of surprises, hotshot. Hmm. Her eyes shifted back to me, gaze sharp as a blade. So, howd you know there was a man out here? Just luck, I muttered, not even bothering to make it sound convincing. Her grin faded into a slow, skeptical smile. Youre a terrible liar. Doesnt matter. I replied. My boots crunched through the dried bits of bone and mud beneath my feet. Im headed back to Kinowa. You coming or not? Mox glanced one more time at the bloody swamp, then at me. Her eyes lingered a moment longer than usual, as if she were sizing me up. Then she shrugged, her wings shifting on her back as she fell into step beside me. Yeah, yeah, she said, flicking a glance over her shoulder at the old man still climbing down from the boulder. Why not. Sure. We walked side by side, the road coming into view just ahead. The soft hum of wind passed through the trees, carrying with it the faint scent of smoke. I didnt say anything, and neither did she. But I could feel her watching me, waiting. Chapter 94: Just distracted =================== NOTIFICATION =================== * Side Quest Completed -------------------------------- + XP Gained: 15 -------------------------------- | Current XP: 75 / 100 -------------------------------- | Progress: ????? ========================= I glanced at the map again, eyes drawn to the small yellow exclamation marks scattered throughout the city. My guess had been rightside quests. There were plenty of them, too. If the crocodile encounter was anything to go by, these quests werent pointless. The experience gain wasnt bad either. If I knocked out a few more, I might even level up and unlock another spell. That thought lingered longer than it should have. A new spell could change everything. I just hoped whatever I learned here would stick with me if I ever made it back home. If I made it back no, when I made it back. I had to hold on to that belief. Otherwise, Id lose it. Another day here was already too much. ========================= * Crocodile slain! -------------------------------- + XP Gained: 5 -------------------------------- | Current XP: 80 / 100 -------------------------------- | Progress: ?????? ========================= I frowned at the numbers. Only five points? Killing a crocodile had to be worth more than that. It didnt add up. Then it clicked. Hunting vs. slaying. The translucent box was counting them differently. The rabbit I hunted gave me more XP than the crocodile I slain. So, hunting animals provided more experience than outright killing them. It explained why the bear near the cabin barely gave me anything. The box mustve flagged it as slain since I didn''t hunt it properly. Where are you looking? Mox''s voice snapped me out of my thoughts. You see another crocodile? Huh? I blinked, still piecing everything together. No, nothing. Just thinking. Her eyes narrowed with suspicion. You sure? Yeah, I muttered, brushing past her. Just distracted. Uh-huh. She fell into step beside me, glancing at me with that familiar grin. Whatever you say, hotshot. Whatever you say.The author''s content has been appropriated; report any instances of this story on Amazon. I didn''t bother responding this time. Hmm TTTTTT?TTTTTT Back at the dormitory, I collapsed onto the bed, letting out a long, drawn-out sigh. My boots hit the floor with a dull thud as I kicked them off, not caring where they landed. My head sank into the pillow, and for a moment, I just lay there, eyes closed, arms sprawled at my sides. My limbs felt like they were made of stone. The bow Mox had given me lay against the wall, its arrows scattered haphazardly next to it. My eyes stayed on it longer than I meant to. I''d never thought I''d be hunting anything, let alone killing something. It didnt sit right with me. Ending the rabbit''s life wasn''t hunting. It was mercy. But I had to accept it. This world didnt play by my rules, and I had to adapt. I buried my face in the pillow, muffling a groan. Man, I miss my bed. I turned onto my back, staring at the ceiling as I brushed the hair out of my eyes. Then, just as I was thinking, a translucent box appeared in front of me, displaying my level and stats. I still didnt understand what the item materials meant, and it seemed like I would have to wait and figure out their purpose. Because none of the options on the box provided any information about them. I sat up, propped a pillow against the wall, and leaned back. My eyes shifted toward the window. The weather had cleared at last, the sun peeking through the clouds. The breeze swayed the branches outside, and everything looked peaceful for once. No rain. No storms. Just quiet. Then, voices. Who did that?! someone shouted from outside. Look at him! Stop yelling! another voice snapped. Help me get him inside! My gaze shifted to the window, curiosity tugging at me. I got up and peered outside. Down below, three figures stood near the entrance to the dormitory. Leo, Aiden, and... Seker? Yeah, it was definitely Seker. He looked awful. His face was swollen, his lip busted, blood staining his shirt. His uniform was a messhis cravat torn in half, one sleeve hanging loose like it had been yanked. He looked like hed been through a street fight. Leo had an arm around Seker, supporting him as Aiden held the door open. Leo was furious, his face locked in a scowl so sharp it could cut stone. His mouth moved fast, words too distant to make out, but I didnt need to hear them to understand. Someone had messed with Seker, and Leo wasnt happy about it. Who! He asked again. Where have you been? We were looking for you the entire--- Dont yell! Aiden snapped. Look at him, Leo! Just calm down. Well understand what happened soon enough. Ugh He was able to say, holding back his anger. Fine. Fine! Fucking fine! Lets wait. Thank you. Aiden replied. Just calm down. Aiden glanced around, his eyes scanning the area like he was expecting trouble to follow them inside. Once they got Seker through the door, the three of them disappeared from sight. I stayed by the window for a moment longer, eyes fixed on the door below. My chest felt heavier than before. Part of me thought about going down there. But my legs stayed where they were. I didn''t have the energy to get involved, and honestly, I didnt want to. My plate was already full, and I wasnt about to add someone else''s problems to it. Not my business, I muttered, letting the curtain fall closed. I returned to the bed, dropping onto it like a stone. The pillow was cool against my cheek as I rolled onto my side, eyes already half-lidded. The voices from below drifted upward, faint but still loud enough for me to catch bits and pieces of it. Leos voice was the loudest, sharp and biting. Who did this? I mean, why? Why would do something like this? Aiden''s voice followed, calmer but firm. Keep your voice down. Youre making it worse, Leo. Chill out a bit, man. Worse? Leo''s tone was ice cold. Worse would be letting it slide. We are not letting it slide. We will not let it slide. But it is not the time, Leo. Not the time. Agh youre right. Okay. Youre right. Their muffled argument continued, but I tuned it out, letting the words blend into the background. My eyelids felt heavy, and sleep tugged at me with each slow breath I took. Theyll handle it, I told myself, shifting to a more comfortable position. Not my problem. Not even the slightest. I stared at the ceiling one last time before shutting my eyes. Dinner with the Queen was still on the horizon, and I''d need all the energy I could get. Dinner with the Queen. I muttered. What a joke Chapter 95: Don鈥檛 argue Just as sleep was starting to take hold, a sharp knock on the door yanked me back to reality. I groaned, pushing myself up with a scowl and trudging toward the door. Voices filtered through the wood, muffled but familiar. Leo and Aiden. Their conversation was drowned out by another round of loud knocks. I pressed my ear against the door, trying to catch their words, but the pounding was too constant to hear anything clearly. My patience was already thin, and I wasnt in the mood to play along. Theyll leave if I stay quiet, I thought, turning away from the door and heading back to the bed. I sat on the edge, elbows on my knees, waiting. The knocks stopped. The voices didnt. Maybe hes not in his room, Aiden suggested, his voice clearer now. Or hes in there and ignoring us, Leo shot back, his tone sharp. He knows what happened to Seker. Just let it go for now, Aiden replied, his voice more even. Well ask him later. Im sure he had a good reason for not telling us. A good reason? Right, Leo muttered, his words dripping with doubt. Sure, lets go with that. Pessimistic as always, Aiden said, his voice trailing off as their footsteps faded down the hall. I leaned back, tapping my foot against the side of the bed. They figured it out. It was bound to happen. Id been the last person Seker spoke to before all this, so of course, theyd put the pieces together. But I wasnt worried. Id already crafted my excuse. Back home, I was always prepared for stuff like thisplanned, calculated. Here, Id gotten sloppy. Too many unknowns, too many surprises. But this world was forcing me to adjust. I could feel I was getting back to my old self or was I simply just adapting? Adapt or be crushed, I reminded myself. I could already guess what Seker had done. He probably went after his stepfather or tracked down whoever had taken his familys money. Either way, he got himself beat to hell. Kid was all heart, no head. I sighed, running a hand through my hair. Theyll corner me eventually. Might as well make it easy. I raised my voice loud enough to be heard. Its open. Lift the door and pull it. It sticks. There was a brief pause, then Aidens muffled, Oh. He is in there. The door creaked as Leo opened it, and before I could say a word, he stormed in. His hand shot forward, grabbing my collar and yanking me to my feet. My breath hitched as we locked eyeshis blazing with frustration, mine dull with indifference. Why were you hiding, huh? Leo barked, his grip tightening. Aiden shoved himself between us, throwing up his arms. Hey! Chill. He nudged Leo back, forcing him to release me. Youre not helping. Leo stepped away, muttering something under his breath. I straightened my collar with a slow, motion, eyes fixed on him the entire time. You done? I asked, my tone flat. Or do you want to rip my shirt next?This tale has been pilfered from Royal Road. If found on Amazon, kindly file a report. Dont test me, Leo snapped, his jaw tight. Then listen, I replied, still adjusting my collar. My eyes met his, calm but firm. I thought Seker wanted to be left alone. Hed just heard his mothers boyfriend blew the last of their gold gambling. Figured he needed some space. Leos scowl deepened. His fingers flexed at his sides like he was one second away from lunging again. You couldve told us, he growled, Why hide it? If Seker wanted you to know, he would have told you himself, I countered, tilting my head slightly. But he didnt. The room went still for a moment. Leos breathing was sharp and uneven, like he was holding himself back. Hes right, a voice rasped from the doorway. All three of us turned toward it. Seker stood there, his figure leaning against the frame like he might collapse at any moment. His shirt was stained with dried blood, and bruises painted his face in shades of purple and red. His left eye was half-swollen shut, and his lip had a fresh split down the middle. He sucked in shallow breaths, each one like it hurt. I needed to do this alone, Seker muttered, his eyes low but his voice steady. For my mom. Leos eyes twitched with something between anger and disbelief. He threw his hands in the air, pacing in a small circle. Why am I surrounded by idiots? he snapped, spinning to face Seker. Weve known each other our whole lives, and you still pull this crap? He pointed at Sekers battered face like it was proof. Look at you, man! You got a busted nose, a split lip, and an eye thats gonna be swollen shut for a week. You won, huh? Feelin righteous now? Seker didnt answer. He just glanced away. Leo, Aiden sighed, He gets it. You dont need to rub it in. Leo scoffed, running a hand through his hair. Yeah, yeah, whatever. His gaze shot to me, sharp and unyielding. And you knew. You knew all of this and stayed quiet. Sorry, I said, letting out a long, drawn-out breath. I shrugged, letting my shoulders fall slack like I was exhausted. I just figured if I were in his shoes, Id want people to back off too. I glanced at Seker, letting that hang in the air. Make it seem like I understand him. People like that always eat it up. Seker rubbed the back of his neck, eyes darting between me, Aiden, and Leo. Hes right, he muttered. I didnt want anyone knowing. Leo shook his head slowly, mouth pressed into a tight line. He didnt say anything, but I could see the frustration boiling under his skin. Alright, thats enough, Aiden said, stepping forward and holding up his hands. Were all tired. Seker, sit down before you fall down. Well call a healer. I dont need a healer, Seker muttered, wincing as he spoke. Yeah, well, your face says otherwise, Aiden shot back, guiding him inside and toward the nearest chair. Sit. Dont argue. Seker sank into the chair with a grunt, his face twisting in pain. He glanced at Leo, then me, like he had something more to say but couldnt bring himself to say it. I leaned against the wall, arms folded. My eyes stayed on Leo, watching his every move. He wasnt pacing anymore, just standing there, staring at Seker with that look people get when theyre disappointed but tired of fighting. Nobody spoke for a while. Aiden finally broke the silence. Ill go get a healer. He pointed a finger at Leo, then me. Dont start anything while Im gone. Leo just waved him off, turning his attention back to Seker. His gaze softened, but only a little. Once Aiden left, the room grew quiet again. Just the distant chatter of the dormitory, muffled behind stone walls. I sat on the bed, resting my elbows on my knees, letting my gaze drift to the window. Outside, the sky had darkened to a deep gray, clouds creeping in again. Another storm, maybe. Fitting. I hate seeing you like this, Leo muttered. His tone had shifted. Quieter. Less fire, more ash. You cant keep doing this, man. I know, Seker replied, leaning his head back against the chair. He closed his eyes, letting the weight of everything settle on him. I stayed where I was, eyes fixed on the clouds outside. My hands rested on my knees, fingers tapping idly. Id done my part. No reason to add more. Just another storm, I thought, Let it pass. Chapter 96: The quiet was nice We sat in silence for about five minutes. No one spoke. No one moved. The only sound was the distant patter of footsteps from the hallway and the faint hum of the rain outside. My phone buzzed softly in my pocket, the screen flashing that dreaded notification10% battery remaining. Even on ultra-battery saving mode, it had finally hit its limit. Not bad, considering how cheap it was. I sighed as I thumbed the power button to shut it off. No point in draining it further. It had only been a flashlight for me lately, and I didnt need it for that anymore. Not when I could cast spells now. Ten percent I whispered to myself with a dull voice. Damn. Another two minutes crawled by. The rain outside shifted from a gentle drizzle to a steady downpour. The faint tapping on the roof became a constant rhythm, filling the silence with its soft sound. Always rainy in Kinowa, I thought, rising from the bed. I wandered over to the window, resting my hands on the sill. For a moment, I let myself imagine I was back home. The gray clouds, the familiar sound of rain. It all felt right. But it wasnt home. Not even close. I blinked away the thought and turned around, leaning my back against the window frame. My gaze fell on Seker, slumped over at the small desk, his head resting on his arms. The dried blood on his shirt had gone dark brown, and his bruises looked even worse under the dim light. You went after your moms boyfriend? I asked, crossing my arms. Or the gamblers who took the money? Seker raised his head, wincing as he sat up straighter. He rubbed the back of his neck, letting out a tired breath. The latter, he muttered, his voice scratchy. I guess they werent happy to see you, I said, stepping away from the window. He let out a hoarse chuckle, his head falling forward to rest on the desk again. Yeah, I guess, huh. he mumbled into the wood. His laugh ended in a small cough, and he winced as he pressed his hand against his ribs. Leo clicked his tongue, leaning against the side of the table with his arms folded. Whatd they hit you with? Rocks? Felt like it, Seker grumbled, shifting in his chair to ease the pressure on his bruises. Theyve got fists like bricks. I swear, one of them had hands the size of a shovel. He winced as he stretched his shoulder, rolling it slowly. Still stings. Sons of b He cut himself off with a hiss of pain. Thats what you get for poking the wrong hornets nest, Leo said, tilting his head to look at him. You at least get the gold back? The stuff your moms deadbeat boyfriend lost? Seker shook his head slowly, eyes locked on the floor. Nope. Thats what stings the most. His jaw clenched, and he wiped at his mouth with his sleeve. Not the beating. Were broke now. No gold, no medicine. Nothing.This content has been unlawfully taken from Royal Road; report any instances of this story if found elsewhere. Leo sucked in a sharp breath through his teeth, letting it out as a low whistle. What a mess, he muttered, his hand running through his hair. He stared at Seker like he couldnt decide whether to be mad or sad. Your stepfather needs a serious wake-up call. Seker sat up slowly, his eyes sharp despite his battered face. Hes not my stepfather, he said firmly, each word precise and deliberate. Theyre not married. His eyes narrowed as he added, And I pray they never will be. Yeah yeah, fair point, Leo muttered, rubbing the back of his neck. He glanced toward me, eyes awkward and uneasy. About earlier I messed up. He scratched at his cheek, looking everywhere but at me. Lost my cool. Im you know. My bad. I waved it off with a shrug. No big deal, I replied. Youre a good friend. Most people wouldnt care as much as you do. Seker and Aiden are lucky. Leo raised an eyebrow, his lips curling into a grin that was half pride, half smug. Damn right they are, he said, tapping his chest with two fingers. Its hard being the perfect man everyone admires. But, hey, I manage. Pipe it, Leo, Seker groaned, throwing a lazy glare his way. I still remember getting jumped by those two thugs cause of you. We were ten, Leo shot back, dragging the words out. Ten. Let it go already. Thirteen, Seker corrected, pointing at him with a shaky finger. I remember because thats--- Small price to pay for friendship, Leo cut in, giving him a cocky grin. The door creaked open, and Aiden stepped inside, shaking the rain off his cloak. His gaze swept over us before landing on Seker. Got a healer downstairs, he announced, tossing his wet cloak onto his shoulder. Hes waiting for you, so lets go. Thanks, Seker grumbled, pushing himself up from his chair with a grunt. He stumbled once but caught himself on the desk. He took a breath, rubbing at his ribs. You good? Aiden asked. Yeah, I am. But---Im kinda broke, though, he admitted, his eyes darting to Aiden. No gold to pay him. Aiden waved it off, already turning back toward the door. I covered it, he said over his shoulder. Dont worry about it. Ill pay you back, Seker muttered, limping toward the door. Aiden glanced back, eyes half-lidded with exhaustion. Pay me back by not being an idiot, he said, jabbing a thumb toward Leo. Like him. Oi! Leo barked, his head snapping toward Aiden. Dont drag me into it! Hes the one who acted like an idiot. Not me! Sorry for the trouble, Axel, Aiden said, stepping out into the hall. See you. No problem. I replied. Take care. The door creaked shut behind him, and finally, I was alone. Silence. I let out a long breath, rubbing the back of my neck before walking over to the bed. I sat on the edge, my hands dangling loosely between my knees. My gaze wandered to the rain-streaked window, watching as the gray clouds churned overhead. The quiet was nice. Finally. No bickering. No problems. Just the steady rhythm of rain tapping against glass. I leaned back, letting my head hit the pillow. My eyes drifted shut, but sleep didnt come easy. My mind stayed active, playing back the events of the day. Their problems, their mistakes, their fights. None of it really involved me, but somehow, Id been pulled into it. Again. I hated this feeling. Acting like a complete idiot, huh Chapter 97: Not too picky I lay on the bed, eyes half-lidded, following the rhythm of the rain as it tapped against the window. Each soft patter felt like a lullaby pulling me toward sleep. My mind drifted, half-awake, half-asleep. A power nap was all I neededespecially with the Queen''s dinner looming over me like a guillotine. I doubted Id get away without some kind of ordeal. Hopefully, she''d be content with just flaunting her power, but I wasnt holding my breath. I shifted onto my side, eyes settling on the bland, featureless walls. They reminded me of home. My room wasnt as cramped, but it had that same empty feeling. No posters, no decorations, just plain furniture. A bed, a wardrobe, a table. Functional. Dull. Quiet. Just like the city itself. "Sick of it," I muttered, voice barely above a whisper. TTTTTT?TTTTTT I opened my eyes, and the first thing I saw was my mother. She was holding me tightly, her hands stained with blood. My head rested on her lap, and she screamed as she stared at her bloodied hands, while our neighbors tried desperately to calm her. My head throbbed with pain from the bullet wound. Though my memories of that moment were blurred, I could never forget her face. I woke up in sweat. Breathing way too fast. Another nightmare. Staring at the ceiling, I let my eyes wander over its texture, tracing the odd shapes and patterns in the cracks. The rain still poured outside, and the low light of the fading sun told me it was almost time for my dinner with the Queen. I had to get ready. I couldnt afford to give her another reason to throw me into her dungeon. Slowly, I rose from the bed and sat at its edge, resting my elbow on my knee, my fingers tracing the scar of the bullet wound on my head. Come on, Ax. Get up, I muttered, forcing myself to move. I tugged on my boots, stamping my heels to get a snug fit. My clothes were wrinkled, but I flattened them as best I could, running my hands down my chest and sleeves. Standing by the window, I gazed out at the rain-slick streets below. No carriage yet. Good. That meant I still had a little time to center myself before dealing with whatever performance the Queen had in store. I sighed and left the room, heading downstairs. The dull buzz of conversation greeted me as I reached the common area. At the counter, that man with the thick mustache was smiling as he chatted with a couple of students. His voice was loud, his laughter even louder. I slid onto one of the stools, planting my elbows on the counter, and leaned forward. My eyes felt like lead weights, every blink slower than the last. Axel, right? the mustache man asked as he noticed me. He excused himself from the others and came to stand in front of me. What can I get ya? Water, I said, voice still scratchy from sleep. Water, huh? Comin right up. He crouched down, rummaging beneath the counter. Looking a bit rough there, kid. Didnt get much sleep? Yeah, I muttered, rubbing my eyes. Too bad its raining. I can never sleep when it rains. He chuckled, placing a glass of water in front of me. Here ya go. Thanks. I grabbed the glass, cool condensation wetting my fingers. I took a slow sip, letting the water wash away the dryness in my throat. The mustache man leaned forward, crossing his arms on the counter. His eyes flicked toward the group of students hed been talking to earlier. Did ya hear about that kid, Seker? Poor boy got himself messed up pretty bad. My fingers froze on the glass, but I didnt look at him. I knew where this was headed. Yeah, I heard.If you encounter this story on Amazon, note that it''s taken without permission from the author. Report it. At first, I thought it was one of them cannibals," he went on, ignoring my disinterest. "You know, the weird folk from Suzans old tavern. Ever since it got shut down, theyve been stirrin up trouble. He shook his head, eyes narrowing. Course, they usually stay outside the city gates, but you never know these days. Right, I muttered, taking another sip. The man sighed, scratching at his mustache. Strange times were livin in, eh? He shook his head as if the weight of it all was too much to bear. What a time to be alive. Yeah, I grunted, turning my eyes back to the rain. It was still falling steadily, tapping against the window. "What a time." The rhythmic clatter of hooves echoed through the air as a carriage pulled up outside. The sound of iron horseshoes striking wet cobblestone streets grew louder, each tap sharp and distinct. My gaze lingered on the window, watching the blurry silhouette of a figure pass by. Moments later, the dormitory door creaked open, letting in a brief gust of cold, rain-scented air. A guard stepped inside, his eyes scanning the room. He didnt seem the type to dawdle. His gaze swept over the students lounging around until it locked onto me. His face didnt change, but the slight tilt of his head told me everything I needed to know. Here it was. My ride. Okay I whispered to myself. Lets do this. He raised his hand and crooked a single finger toward me. A silent order. I pushed myself off the stool, sighing as I shoved my hands into my pockets and walked toward him. This was going to be a long ride, I could feel it already. The students around us took notice. Some whispered behind cupped hands, while others talked openly, their voices carrying across the room. I caught bits and pieces of their words. "Thats him," someone muttered. "What did he do this time?" another snickered. I kept my eyes forward, not giving them the satisfaction of a reaction. Still, I could feel every stare boring into my back. I hated this. Always the outlier. Always the one people watched. Come on, the guard said, his tone brisk and business-like. Lets go, Axel. Yeah, I muttered, my voice flat as I stepped up beside him. Lets. The moment we stepped outside, the rain hit like a cold slap to the face. I hunched my shoulders, arms tucked close to my sides as I followed the guard. The rain had already soaked through my clothes by the time we reached the carriage. Luckily, it wasnt one of those open carriages. This one had doors, an interior, and, hopefully, a roof that didnt leak. The guard stepped ahead, grabbed the handle, and yanked the door open with a grunt. He stood aside, letting me climb in first. I didnt waste time, ducking inside and shaking off the rain from my arms. The space inside was cramped but dry, which was good enough for me. Wooden walls lined with thin cushions made up the seating. It wasnt exactly luxury, but it beat standing in the rain. The guard followed right after me, his heavy boots thudding against the floor as he shut the door behind him with a dull thunk. Outside, the coachman grumbled something as he tugged on the reins. Sweet Rowes perky tits I heard him mutter under his breath. This weatherll be the death of me, I swear He gave the reins a flick, and the horses lurched forward, hooves splashing through puddles. The faint jostle of the carriage made the wooden frame creak, and water droplets slid down the small square window on the side. I watched as people on the street turned their heads to stare. Curious eyes followed the carriage as it passed, some glancing quickly, others stopping in their tracks to watch it roll by. No doubt the gossip would spread by morning. "Did you see that boy?" "Yeah, the one riding with the guards." "He must be in serious trouble." Theyd make up whatever story entertained them most. I leaned back, eyes fixed on the rain-smeared window, tuning them all out. The guard across from me let out a slow exhale, arms crossed over his chest. His eyes scanned me, his expression unreadable, but I could tell he was sizing me up. After a moment, he cocked his head to the side. You didnt have anything fancier to wear? he asked, his brow arched with mild disbelief. A school uniform for this type of invitation not exactly the best look. I glanced down at my damp clothes, tugging at the sleeve. The fabric clung to my arm, cold and uncomfortable. Ive only got two sets of clothes, I replied, deadpan. Not exactly swimming in gold, as you can probably guess. He snorted, lips curling into a crooked grin. Yeah, I can see that. His eyes lingered on my shirt a little longer before narrowing in on something. Hold up He leaned forward, pointing at a small tear near my shoulder. Is that an arrow hole? I tilted my head, eyeing the damage. I think so. Yeah. Unbelievable, he muttered, leaning back with his arms still crossed. Youre really showin up like this, huh? Queens probably gonna love that. His grin widened as if he found the whole thing amusing. Yeah, well I shrugged, leaning back against the wooden wall. Lets hope shes not too picky about my fashion sense TTTTTT?TTTTTT Chapter 98: Wear it anyway The carriage began to slow, the clatter of hooves shifting into the softer rhythm of a trot. Peering out the window, I spotted the palace gates ahead, already open. Two guards stood at either side, their gazes sharp and watchful as rain slid down their helmets. Beyond them, the palace loomed like a silent giant, its stone walls slick from the downpour. The district around us was eerily quiet. Shops were shut tight, their signs swaying slightly in the rain. The streets were empty, not a single soul walking about. Only the faint glow of candlelight from behind windows hinted that people were still inside. A few curious faces peeked out from parted curtains, eyes tracking our approach. Just what I neededmore stares. Across from me, the guard stirred, his head lifting from where it had rested against the wall. He yawned, rubbed his face, then squinted out the window. Finally, he muttered, blinking away sleep. Thought we''d never get here. Rain slowed us down, I replied, leaning back against the creaking wall. Couldve walked faster than this. Dont think Id want to, though, he said, stretching his arms until his shoulders popped. He glanced at me, a small smirk tugging at his lips. You excited, kid? Sure, I muttered, eyes still on the palace. Yeah, you sound real excited. He snorted, tilting his head to the side to get a better look at me. Honestly, you look like youre about to get dragged to your own execution. Pretty close to how it feels, I said flatly. Get ready! the coachman hollered from the front. Were nearly there, boys! The carriage rolled past the gates, the wheels splashing through shallow puddles. As it pulled to a stop near a stone fountain, the coachman hopped down, boots splashing in the waterlogged dirt. The guard shoved the door open and stuck a hand out, testing the rain with a grimace. His lips moved, probably cursing under his breath, before he gritted his teeth and jumped out, his cloak fluttering behind him. Dont stand there like a log, kid, he called back. I followed, hopping down onto the slick ground. The cold rain hit me like needles, drenching me within seconds. My clothes clung to my skin, heavy and uncomfortable. I hurried after the guard, feet splashing through shallow puddles as we made our way toward the main entrance. The guards stationed at the doors didnt move an inch. They stood like statues, rain dripping off their armor. Their eyes stayed forward, faces hard as stone, scanning the courtyard for threats. If they noticed me, they didnt show it. Mustve been used to the rain. We reached the entrance, stepping inside to the sound of water dripping off our soaked clothes. I ran a hand through my hair, slicking it back as droplets ran down my face. Everything I wore felt heavier than it shouldve, and I knew I mustve looked as pitiful as I felt. Ah, hell, the guard muttered, flicking water from his hands. I hate Kinowa. Hmm Anyway, he continued, rubbing his neck as he eyed the staircase ahead. Lets head upst A voice cut through the air behind us. Oh, what is this? It was loud, sharp, and full of disgust. What a disgrace! I turned slowly, already knowing who it was before I saw him. The fat man from beforethe one who delivered the Queen''s invitation. His heavy frame moved faster than I thought possible. His face twisted in exaggerated outrage, his jowls quivering with each word. He reached me in seconds, his hand clamping down on my shoulder with surprising force. I barely had time to react before he spun me halfway around, making me stumble. I told you to wear your best attire! he barked, his round face inches from mine. His breath smelled like garlic. Is this your best? His eyes darted over me, from my rain-soaked cloak to the damp school uniform clinging to my frame. His lip curled like hed seen something foul.The author''s tale has been misappropriated; report any instances of this story on Amazon. Didnt have anything else, I replied, voice flat as ever. Sorry. Ugh He dragged a hand down his face, fingers pressing into his cheeks. What a mess. He glanced around like he was looking for someone to blame for my existence. Follow me. Now. He snapped his fingers at me like I was a dog. Ill find you something decent to wear. Right. Thanks. Dont be late, the guard called from behind. He pulled off his gloves, wringing them out as he watched us. Youve got about ten minutes, kid. Hmm. I gave him a small nod, already being tugged along. Move, move, move! the fat man said, gripping my arm and pulling me forward with all the urgency of a man herding cattle. His grip was firm, his steps quick for someone of his size. Chop chop! No time to waste! I followed, boots squelching against the stone floor, my eyes half-lidded from sheer exhaustion. Dinner with the Queen. Somehow, being tossed back into a dungeon didnt sound so bad anymore for some reason Moving toward the stairs, I figured wed be heading up. Instead, we passed right by them and entered a small side room. The shift in atmosphere was immediate. It smelled faintly of fabric and dust, like an old tailor''s workshop. Mannequins stood scattered around the room, each one draped in a variety of garmentssome simple, some embroidered with gold or silver thread. Their blank faces stared ahead, their stillness somehow unsettling. At the center of the room was a wide table, cluttered with swatches of fabric, scissors, and bits of loose thread. A thick bundle of cloth hung off the edge like it was too tired to stay in place. Beside the table sat a stone chair with needles and spools of thread resting on the seat, as if someone had just left it there in a hurry. The only window in the room, located just behind the table, was obscured by a thick curtain of golden fabric. Its rich glow clashed with the rest of the room''s muted grays and browns. Wait here, the man ordered, jabbing a finger at a corner of the room. Ill find you something suitable. Alright, I said, trudging to the wall and leaning against it. The stone was cool against my back, and I let my head tilt slightly. Thanks. He moved toward the table, fingers already rummaging through the mess of fabric. He hummed quietly to himself, lifting pieces of cloth to inspect them before tossing them aside in disappointment. His hands moved with the precision of someone used to picking only the finest materials. I watched him in silence, my eyes half-lidded, my body still damp from the rain. My thoughts drifted, and before I realized it, I was thinking about what hed said beforethe way he spoke about Mox. His words circled my mind like an annoying song I couldnt shake off. I glanced at the ground, then slowly lifted my gaze back to him. The question was already at the tip of my tongue, and this time, I let it out. You dont like noxiveras, do you? I asked, my voice calm but direct. His hands paused for a moment, gripping a deep blue cloth. He didnt look at me right away. If I were to say yes to that, he said, lifting the cloth to eye level for inspection, that would make me a racist, wouldnt it? He gave the cloth a quick tug, checking its strength, before tossing it aside like it had failed him. Are you? I asked, tilting my head slightly. He snorted, a dry, humorless sound. Im a realist, he replied, moving to another pile of fabric. Im royal. I do what the Queen tells me to do. Hmm, I grunted, crossing my arms. I let the silence hang for a moment, then shifted to a new approach. When the elves took control of Nutar... Noxiveras didnt help, did they? His hands slowed. He didnt answer right away. He picked up a piece of fabrica dark green one this timeand examined it under the light. No, he finally said, his tone sharp and certain. They sided with the elves. Really? I asked, sensing his lie. His eyes flicked toward me, cold and steady. Why would I lie? he shot back, giving me a look that said he didnt appreciate being questioned. He held up another piece of fabric, this one a shade of deep maroon. His eyes lingered on it longer than the others. Thisll fit, he muttered, nodding to himself. Then he turned to me, holding it up like hed just found a hidden treasure. Here. Wear this. Ill find you some proper boots to match. I pushed off the wall, walking over to take the cloth from his hands. It was heavier than I expected, the fabric dense but smooth to the touch. No doubt, it was higher quality than anything Id ever worn. Sure, I said, giving it a once-over. Better than what Ive got, I guess. Much better, he muttered, already turning back toward the table to search for boots. His back was to me, but his voice still carried across the room. Dont drag your feet, boy. The Queen waits for no one. Yeah, I said, glancing at the golden curtain behind him. My fingers traced the fabric in my hands. Heavy, smooth, and far too nice for someone like me. But Id wear it anyway. Chapter 99: Hold on to Taking the clothes, I waited until the man left the room before I began undressing. There was something about this space that made me uneasy, as if the mannequins scattered around were silently watching me. Their blank, lifeless faces seemed to shift in the corner of my vision, though I knew it was just my mind playing tricks. After slipping into the new attire, I turned toward a nearby mirror. The sight of myself caught me off guard. The fabric was dark blue, almost black, with a subtle sheen that hinted at its quality. The tunic fit snugly, tailored to perfection, with silver embroidery tracing patterns along the cuffs and collar. A wide belt cinched the outfit at my waist, while a long cloak draped over one shoulder, its edges trimmed with delicate threadwork. This wasnt just clothingit was a damn statement. Back in my world, my wardrobe consisted of a school uniform and pajamas. Transitioning from those to this? It felt surreal. Huh I muttered, brushing a hand over the fabric. This is different. A knock on the door snapped me out of my thoughts. Are you done in there? the man called impatiently. Hurry up! Im done, I replied, tucking my phone into my inventory for safekeeping. Coming. Opening the door, I found myself face-to-face with him. He immediately grabbed my shoulders, tilting his head to examine me from different angles like an artist critiquing a sculpture. After a few grunts of approval, he darted back into the room, returning with a small box. He then yanked me back inside the room, closing the door. Without warning, he sprayed a cool liquid onto my hair and began brushing it. The sensation was unfamiliar; I couldnt remember the last time Id used anything beyond shampoo, let alone brushed my hair properly. Hah, he said, stepping back and placing the brush and container into the box. Youre not half bad when cleaned up. I glanced at the mirror again. The person staring back hardly felt like me. My hair was slicked back neatly, with two stray strands framing my face. The bullet wound on the side of my head was still there, a reminder of what hadnt healed, but otherwise I almost looked somewhat respectable. Now youre ready, he said with a satisfied nod. And we still have some time to spare. Lets go. I followed him out of the room, my steps leading me toward the last place I wanted to bethe grand doors that opened to the Queen herself. I still couldn''t believe Id burst in and interrupted her dinner. I couldnt possibly just wait it out though; my neck was on the line literally. The two guards stationed at the entrance exchanged a glance before lowering their swords in unison. Then, to my surprise, they bowed slightly. Hmm? I murmured, glancing at the fat man beside me. He wasnt looking at the guards. His wide eyes were fixed on something behind me. Oi, he whispered, gripping my arm and yanking me aside. Step back and bow. Now. He forced my head down, and I obeyed without question. A woman loomed in front of mecommanding, suffocating. Slowly, I turned my gaze just enough to catch a glimpse of her. Her long dress was pitch black, flowing like liquid shadow. It clung to her form, hugging every curve and accentuating the elegance of her silhouette, leaving little to the imagination. The front of the dress dipped low, just enough to suggest an elegant neckline, the edges full with delicate, lace-like patterns that resembled tendrils creeping up her skin. On the left side, the hem of the dress split at an angle, exposing her long, smooth leg nearly to her hip. The cut was sharp, daring, with the fabric flowing just enough to hint at the sleek lines of her thigh, only adding to the mystery of her form. Her long, dark hair cascaded over her shoulders in soft waves, framing a face that was strikingly regal yet icy.If you stumble upon this narrative on Amazon, it''s taken without the author''s consent. Report it. There was something unsettlingly magnetic about hera pull, like the shadow of the moon over the tide. Her beauty was just out of this world, perfected, and as she moved, it was as though the very air around her thickened with an almost electric tension. Weve met before. She said, Havent we? Hmm? I remembered her nowshe had been there when I delivered the dagger to the Queen. Even through the haze of that memory, her image was sharp. She wasnt someone easily forgotten. She was accompanied by five guards, each clad in armor distinct from the Queens soldiers. Their weapons gleamed even in the dim light, a silent warning to anyone who might cross her. It was clear that she was someone important or just someone rich. Or, well, both. You must be the guest Mirelda mentioned, she said, her voice smooth but sharp enough to cut. Lift your head. I hesitated at first, then I slowly looked up. Yes, maam. Her lips curled into a faint smile. Im Nora. Nice to meet you. No, Axel. She is Nora The fat man whispered angrily as if I said something terrible. the Queen of Gatay. Oh I managed, my brain scrambling to process her presence. Its an honor to meet you, Your Highness. No more crazy Queens. Please. Likewise, Axel. She turned her attention to one of the guards at the door. Is Mirelda inside? Yes, Your Highness, one replied crisply. Queen Mirelda and Lady Miu are waiting. Good, she said, her voice carrying the weight of command. Lets not keep them waiting then, shall we? As the doors swung open, the fat man grabbed my arm, pulling me back abruptly. He leaned in close, his eyes darting to Noras retreating figure as she strode into the room. Shes a sensara, he whispered, his voice low. Be careful around her. A what? Hey! The guard at the door barked, snapping my attention back. What are you waiting for, boy? Get inside! Right, I muttered. Sorry. I stepped forward, the heavy double doors groaning shut behind me. For a moment, I stood frozen, my back still to the entrance. My gaze lingered on the now-closed doors, my dull eyes fixed as if I could somehow disappear into them. I missed that feelingbeing invisible, blending into the background. It was safer, quieter. I didnt belong here, not with these people or at this table. With a sigh, I finally turned around, only to freeze again. A hulking figure was striding toward me, his steps heavy and fast. My back hit the double doors as I instinctively stepped away. It was himthe Queens general. He was a mountain of a man, his muscular frame seemingly carved from stone. Scars crisscrossed his weathered face, each one telling a story I didnt want to hear. His broad shoulders and veiny, massive arms made my frame seem almost laughable in comparison. Axel Millo, he boomed, gripping my hand in an ironclad handshake that nearly crushed my fingers. I owe you an apology. An apology? I managed, my voice barely above a whisper. Yes, he said, pumping my hand up and down with unsettling enthusiasm. I pushed you away at Redwood. I didnt realize you had assisted our Queen. Oh, I muttered. Thats uh, its fine, sir. No need to apologize. His grip lingered for a moment longer before he released me, giving a nod that felt more like a command than a gesture of respect. Looking past him, I spotted herthe Queen. She stood near Nora, her posture composed, deep in conversation. By her side was a young woman, close to my age or maybe a year older. She shared her mothers refined features, her blonde hair neatly tied back. While the Queen wore an elegant dress of deep crimson with gold embroidery, the girls attire was simplera darker red gown with minimal embellishments, though no less regal in its design. The general stepped aside, motioning for me to approach. My legs felt like lead, but I moved forward, each step measured. As I drew closer, the Queens gaze shifted to me. Her piercing eyes locked onto mine briefly, her expression unreadable. She gave me a small nod before returning her attention to Nora, continuing their conversation as if I hadnt disrupted anything. Okay, I muttered under my breath. Nothing will go wrong. Nothing. I wasnt sure if I believed it, but at this point, it was all I had to hold on to. Chapter 100: He鈥檚 ready With shy, hesitant steps, I approached the Queen and bowed deeply. The blonde girl standing nearby, who had been quietly listening to the Queen and Noras conversation, turned her sharp gaze toward me. Her narrowed eyes studied my face, as though trying to place where she had seen me beforeor perhaps trying to decipher the kind of person I was. Every couple of seconds, her eyes flicked back to me even as she refocused on the conversation. Nora, noticing my presence, turned toward me. Her dark eyes landed squarely on mine, and a faint smile curved her lips. The Queen followed her gaze, pausing mid-sentence to offer Nora a sly grin. Though I couldnt catch what was said, the faint laughter that followed as Nora covered her mouth suggested it wasnt anything hostile. So this is the boy who saved you, huh, Nora said finally, looking me over with the air of someone appraising livestock. I expected him to be a bit bulkier. The General saved the Queen, Your Highness, I corrected quickly, keeping my voice steady. I didnt do anything worth mentioning. The Queen waved a hand, amused. He has a problem with taking compliments. Just like every man I know. Noras smile deepened as her gaze sharpened. Which class are you, boy? A? B? I heard about what you did to that forest. She said, crossing her arms. Hells, I even saw you in action. I was enjoying a quiet morning on my balcony, sipping coffee, when the forest disappeared before my eyes. My throat tightened. Im F, I admitted, my voice quieter now. Noras smile faltered, her brows lifting in disbelief. F? Are you mocking me? Oh, hes an F-class, the Queen interjected, her tone laced with amusement. I saw the papers myself. He doesnt even have an affinity for magic. But he has heart! the General bellowed, stepping forward to clap me on the chest with enough force to make me stumble. The sharp ache made my breath hitch, though I tried to hide it. With courage like his, theres no obstacle he cant overcome! Is that so? the blonde girl said, her voice calm yet inquisitive. She tilted her head slightly, her gaze steady as she regarded me. I dont think Ive seen you before. Are you new here? Yes, my lady, I replied, standing a little straighter. Im from another country. Magic was forbidden there, so Im only just starting to learn. Her brow furrowed slightly. Which country? I had been prepared for this question. Summoning what little confidence I had, I answered, Putra. Recognition showed in her eyes. Nora, meanwhile, frowned, her voice tinged with disappointment. Putra? That broken country? Shame whats happened there, but forbidding magic? Thats madness. I nodded gravely. I lived in a secluded village, cut off from the world. The elders believed magic only brought destruction and forbade us from practicing it. Fools, Nora muttered, shaking her head. Magic is a gift. It should be nurtured, not suppressed. Before I could respond, a sharp knock interrupted us. The Queen called out, giving permission for entry. The door opened, revealing a guard in full armor. He stepped inside quickly, his breath ragged as though he had run from some distant part of the palace. Your Highness, the guard began, lowering his spear and bowing slightly. I have news for the general. Weve caught an elf. Hes being prepared for the hanging. An elf? the General growled, his expression hardening. Damn them all. Dont hang him just yetI want a word with him first. Maybe I can persuade him to share the location of his friends. The guard hesitated. We tried, sir. He wouldnt talk. This book is hosted on another platform. Read the official version and support the author''s work. The Generals lips twisted into a cruel grin. Let me try, he said, already moving toward the door. The Queen didnt even look up as she gave a brief command. Report back if you find anything. Yes, Your Highness, the General replied. Turning to the guard, he added, Get my tools ready. Ill be there shortly. Their voices faded as the door clicked shut behind them. I exhaled slowly, realizing I had been holding my breath. My heart was pounding, a mix of adrenaline and apprehension surging through me. I kept my expression neutral, but inwardly, I was bracing myself. Every word, every movement mattered here. One misstep and I could end up swinging from a rope alongside that elf. I couldnt afford to make any mistakes. The three women near the throne walked toward the long table to the side of the room. I stayed where I was, hesitant to move until I knew what they expected of me. They each sat down, the Queen gesturing for me to take a seat as well. I nodded and walked to the empty chair, lowering myself carefully, trying to act as inconspicuous as possible. As soon as we were seated, one of the guards knocked on the door, and within moments, it opened to reveal a line of maids carrying trays of food. They moved quickly, setting down steaming bowls of stew, plates of rice, and meats arranged with unnatural perfection. Glasses of wine glimmered in the soft light, alongside desserts I couldnt begin to identify. Your cook must still be Killora, right? That strange man with the ridiculous mustache? Nora asked, a playful smirk on her face. The Queens expression darkened, her voice turning cold. No. He isnt. He never will be. Oh? Whys that? Nora asked, tilting her head slightly. Ill explain later, the Queen replied, her tone curt as she brushed the topic aside. I noticed how the blonde girl across from me tried to peer around the massive platters to steal glances at me. Her movements were subtle, but it was clear she was observing me, sizing me up for reasons I couldnt guess. Finally, the maids finished arranging the table and exited the room, bowing in unison. Nora and the girl both waited, their eyes on the Queen as if they wouldnt dare take the first bite without her. The Queen picked up her wine glass, lifting it slightly. To Nutar, she said. To Nutar, Nora said, raising her own glass. To Nutar, the blonde girl added, holding up a glass of juice. Then they all turned to me, their gazes expectant. Startled, I hurriedly picked up my own glassalso filled with juiceand held it up. To Nutar, I muttered. They seemed satisfied and took small sips before setting their glasses down. I mimicked them, unsure of what else to do. The others began eating, their movements graceful as they navigated the tableware. I, however, was completely out of my depth. I didnt even know how to cut meat with a knife, since there was no one there to teach me in my childhood. So, not wanting to embarrass myself, I plucked a single grape from a bowl and popped it into my mouth. The flavor exploded on my tongue, richer and sweeter than any fruit Id ever tasted. Youre not eating much, Nora said, her sharp eyes landing on me. Im not very hungry, Your Highness, I replied, trying to keep my voice steady. Shame, she said, slicing into her food with ease. These meals are to die for. The Queen turned her attention to Nora. How are things in Gatay? That new law of yours still doesnt sit right with me. Youre too soft, Nora replied with a casual shrug. We can use elves as free labor. Put them to work, and when theyre no longer useful, we dispose of them. Simple. I prefer the latter option right away, the Queen said, spearing a piece of meat. You never know what theyre planning. I focused on another grape, trying to tune out the conversation. If I stayed quiet and kept my head down, I might just survive the evening. Though something felt off. How about the coal mines near North Krel? the Queen asked. Any progress there? Theyre still closed because of the avalanche risk, Nora said. And the elves weve captured are mostly old or womennot fit for such work. Then kill the weak ones. Make an example of them so the rest wont fail, the Queen said, her tone as casual as if she were discussing the weather. Youre too soft. And tough at the same time, Mirelda. Nora turned her gaze back to me. Oh, I think hes ready. The sudden shift in attention made my stomach turn. Before I could react, a sharp, searing pain shot through my head. Heat surged through my body, and panic clawed its way up my chest. My eyes darted to my glass, and I saw the faint traces of white powder clinging to the bottom. Poison probably. I didnt know. I stumbled to my feet, backing away from the table. My breath hitched as my vision swam, and I barely registered the guards stepping forward, their swords drawn. Chapter 101: Mommy issues We can begin, the Queen said calmly, Apologies for the trouble, Nora. No problem at all, Nora replied, standing gracefully from her seat. Her smile was light, almost amused. Youre a dear friend, Mirelda. How could I refuse your favor? What the hell I muttered, a sharp pain rippling through my skull. My knees buckled, and I dropped to one, clutching my forehead. Shit... this hurts. Now, Nora said, her voice soft yet commanding as she slowly approached me, get up. I wasnt sure how or why, but my body obeyed. My legs straightened against my will, and I stood, locking eyes with her. Her irises glowed faintly pink, an unnatural, almost hypnotic shimmer. For a moment, she seemed to radiate a soft light, her presence consuming the room. Something was definitely offeverything about her felt amplified, almost divine. She circled me, her eyes scanning as if I were prey under scrutiny. Then, she stopped in front of me and pressed a hand to my chest, her fingers lingering over my pounding heart. My body refused to move; I stood there, frozen, like a puppet waiting for its strings to be pulled. I want you to show me your deepest desires, Axel, she whispered, her tone both soothing and invasive. Tell me who you really are. Im I struggled to speak, the words stuck in my throat. Really, Mother? the blonde girl interjected from her seat, her voice tinged with irritation. Do you truly suspect the boy who saved your life? You never know, the Queen replied coolly, her sharp eyes locked on me. Continue, Nora. Nora closed her eyes and leaned in, her forehead brushing against mine. Her warm breath mingled with mine, the intimacy unsettling. My chest tightened as her heartbeat synchronized with mine, her presence overwhelming every sense. Then, something shifted. Her brows furrowed deeply, confusion flickering across her face. She pulled back, glancing at the Queen. Huh, would you look at that this is unexpected. What is it? the Queen asked, her tone sharp and impatient. Whats his deepest desire? To kill me? To aid the elves? What about his past? Strangely I wasnt able to see his past. Mm that raises some questions the Queen said, then shook her head. So, whats his deepest desire? All the elves we caught wanted one thing: to kill me. He is the same? No, Nora said softly, a bittersweet smile forming on her lips. Should I show you? Do it, the Queen said without hesitation. Nora approached me again, her steps slow. Then, she opened her arms and embraced me, pulling my head to rest on her shoulder. I didnt fight it; I couldnt. Her touch felt unnervingly familiar. Slowly, she guided me to sit on the floor as she lowered herself into a chair. My head rested on her lap, and her fingers began to trace the scar from my bullet wound, the motion delicate and almost maternal. There, there, she murmured, her voice soft and comforting. Mom will always love you. Even when no one else does, I do. It wasnt her voice anymore. It was my mothers.This tale has been unlawfully lifted from Royal Road. If you spot it on Amazon, please report it. You do? I asked, my voice barely above a whisper, dull and hollow. Yes. And Im proud of you, she continued, the warmth in her voice enough to sting. Proud of the man youve become. Really? I asked again with the same boring tone. Really, she whispered before pressing a gentle kiss to my bullet wound. My hand instinctively reached for hers, holding it tightly. For a moment, I was lost in the illusion, the pain of the world fading away. Then, like a shattering mirror, clarity returned. I jerked away, stumbling backward. My foot caught the leg of a chair, and I collapsed onto the floor. My breath came in ragged gasps as I stared at her, the room spinning around me. The boy who saved you has some major mommy issues, Mirelda, Nora said, her smile turning playful again. Hes no traitor. I can confidently say that. He doesnt hate you. He doesn''t even care for you, to be honest. What just happened? I demanded, keeping my face neutral. Youve officially been charmed, my dear, Nora said, tilting her head as if explaining something obvious. We Sensaras can do that. Was this your first time? Sensara? Whats that? I asked, still disoriented. Huh? the blonde girl scoffed, rolling her eyes. Its an entire race, you idiot. How could you not know that? There were no sensaras in my country, I stammered, trying to recover. Putras king was a sensara, Nora added, crossing her arms. I didnt know that, I lied quickly. We were isolated from the real world. I stopped, shaking my head. I I heard my mothers voice. It was so real. Yes, Nora replied, her tone laced with mockery. Your deepest desire is hearing your mother tell you shes proud of you. How utterly dull. And here I thought the only boring thing about you was your half-lidded stare. So I wasnt poisoned? I asked, my voice uneven as I steadied myself. That was just a precaution, the Queen replied smoothly, her tone as sharp as her gaze. After witnessing what you did to that forest, I had to ensure you were manageable. Nora scoffed softly, pushing her chair back and standing with a graceful stretch. Even though I told you it wouldnt be necessary, she remarked, walking back to her original seat. I prefer to be cautious around strangers, the Queen said, her chin resting lightly on her palm as she regarded me. Still, I must admit, Axel, youve earned yourself a reward. I have? You helped me when you didnt have to, she continued, rising to her feet. Her tone was almost playful, but her piercing eyes left no room for argument. So, yes. Tell me, what would you like? Men usually want two things Gold? Women? At her signal, a nearby guard opened the door. Moments later, three women entered the room. Their attireor lack thereofwas so revealing that it barely served its purpose. They wore thin strips of fabric that clung to their bodies, leaving little to the imagination. Each of them bowed deeply, then stood before the throne, their gazes downcast as they awaited orders. I felt a surge of discomfort. Asking to return to my world wasnt an option, not with the way things were. That would only invite suspicion. I dismissed the thought, straightening my rich but dusty clothes and fixing my attention back on the Queen. Your Highness, I began carefully, Id like to request something else from you, if it pleases you. What a bold little man! Nora interjected, laughing as she slapped the table. Youre asking for the Queen herself, arent you? A bedchamber request, huh? How dare you? the blonde girl snapped, glaring at me like Id committed treason. No! I said quickly, raising a hand to diffuse the tension. Its nothing like that. I dont want womenor anything of that sort. Certainly not you, Queen. Mirelda arched a brow, her expression unreadable. Certainly not me? she repeated. Explain yourself. I mean I hesitated, choosing my words carefully. Im a commoner, while youre a queen. Something like that isnt even in the realm of possibility for someone like me. Not even in my dreams. My voice was steady, but intentionally dull, hoping to seem as neutral as possible. Good save, Nora said with a sly grin, reclining in her chair. The Queens lips pressed into a thin line, her patience evidently wearing thin. Before I change my mind and decide to hang you, she said icily, tell me plainlywhat is it that you want? Chapter 102: Apologize, Apologize, Apologize In that moment, a memory resurfaced. I was in middle school, walking along the sidewalk. A bus stopped beside me, and a girl my age stumbled off, vomiting onto the side of the road. No one stopped to check on her or offered help. They simply walked past, indifferent. I did the same. She wasnt my problem. Id sighed in relief, muttering, Glad thats not me, like everyone else. Being selfish was easier. But in the city, winning often felt more humiliating than losing. Whether you succeeded or failed, one truth remained: the housethe systemalways won. With a wave of her hand, the Queen dismissed the scantily clad women. They bowed and exited the room quickly. She returned to her seat, her piercing gaze fixed on me, joined by Nora and the blonde girl. None of them ate or drank; they simply waited for my response. Someone I know, I began. His mother was cursed by magic. Id like her to receive a blessing. A blessing? The Queen repeated, clearly taken aback. You wish to help your friend? Hes not a friend. Just someone I know, Your Highness, I clarified. Is it possible? The Queen and Nora exchanged a look, their expressions shifting to something more serious. The Queen tapped her index finger against the table thoughtfully. I stood there, feeling regret creep in. I couldve asked for gold or even those women, something tangible, something beneficial. Why did I request this? What had possessed me to do something selfless? This world was getting under my skin---changing me. I needed to leave it as soon as possible. As the Queens gaze settled on me, I gulped, averting my eyes. The silence was heavy and awkward. I cursed myself for making such a foolish choice. You never fail to surprise me, the Queen finally said. Who is this someone you know? His name is Seker. I dont know his surname, but he lives in the boys dormitory. A blessing is not a small request, she said, her tone carrying weight. Its expensive. I didnt expect you to choose something so altruistic. Oh But, very well. I shall grant you your wish, she said, leaning back in her chair. But I require something in return. Of course, Your Highness, I replied. Join the school tournament, she said. Fight for Redwood. I froze, her words sinking in. Join the tournament and fight? It felt impossible. Id avoided conflict my whole life. Why would I willingly step into a battleground now? Im not much of a fighter, I admitted. My mana pool is low, and I dont even know how to hold a knife properly. Id only embarrass myself. I dislike the word save, the Queen said, her tone sharp. But embarrassment didnt save me that day. Bravery did, just like General Thum said. Oh, how exciting! Nora chimed in with a faint smile. I guess Ill stay in Kinowa a bit longer. I wouldnt miss this for the world, Axel. I really This isnt a negotiation, the Queen interrupted. Her voice was final. Accept, or walk away. After a pause, I nodded. Okay. Itll be pathetic, but Ill try my best. Then its settled, the Queen declared, satisfaction evident in her tone. Now sit. Eat. This food will not go to waste. As you wish, Your Highness, I said, pulling out the chair Id stumbled over earlier and sitting down. TTTTTT?TTTTTTDid you know this text is from a different site? Read the official version to support the creator. After a painfully awkward dinner, the Queen and Nora retreated to the throne, engaged in a private conversation that clearly had nothing to do with me. I remained at the table with just one other personthe blonde girl. I was still eating grapes, while she sipped her soup with an air of elegance. The silence between us was deafening, amplifying the awkwardness to an unbearable level. I began to wonder if I could excuse myself, perhaps feigning an important task or claiming I had a quest to complete before its deadline. Finally, my stomach signaled it had endured enough grapes. Leaning back into my chair, I glanced around. The rain continued to lash against the windows, the wind howling in uneven bursts. I I muttered, turning toward the girl. May I be excused, my lady? She raised an eyebrow, setting her spoon on the edge of her plate. As you can see, she wears the crown, she said, gesturing toward her mother. Ask her. Right okay. Before I could gather the courage to approach the Queen, she spoke again. Is it true? Did you really destroy a whole forest? Just a part of it, I said, trying to downplay the event. But yeah, that was me. Would you show me how you did it? Id rather not, if thats okay, I replied. I was lucky no one got caught in the crossfire. If anyone innocent had been hurt I trailed off, shaking my head. Id never forgive myself. I know a safe place, she said, her voice insistent. Will you show me there? Is this an order, my lady? No. Its just a request. Then Ill have to refuse. Her eyes widened slightly, caught off guard by my refusal. She locked her gaze on me, taking a deep breath before exhaling slowly. I wasnt a performer meant to entertain or satisfy anyones curiosity. Agreeing to participate in that tournament was already more than enough. I wasnt going to let this spiral into even more nonsense. Well, she said after a pause. Now its an order. But Mother, she interrupted, turning toward the Queen without looking away from me, may I take Axel outside for a while? I want him to show me how he destroyed the forest. The Queen glanced at her daughter, then at me. Take some guards with you, she said. And be cautious. Where will you take him? We cant risk the citys destruction. To the ocean, the blonde girl replied confidently. Fine, the Queen said with a dismissive wave. Have fun. Actually, I interjected, standing abruptly, may I be excused, Your Highness? Mr. Poley told me I needed to practice magic and Did my voice not carry? the Queen interrupted, her words sharp and biting. You will go with her. But Now I understand why your own mother shot you, she said coldly. You imbecile. Her words hit like a hammer, and I felt my fists clench instinctively. My dull eyes locked with hers, unwavering. Shed crossed a line. The room fell silent, everyone watching the standoff. Seeing my reaction, the Queen rose from her throne and stormed toward me, her heels clicking loudly against the floor. She grabbed me by the collar and yanked me toward her, her face twisted with disdain. I didnt look away. I didnt flinch. What? she hissed. Do you think Im afraid of you? Making a fist and all angrily? Ill end you right here if you dont stop looking at me like that. Apologize, I said, my tone as dull and steady as ever. Apologize? Her laugh was cruel. You want me to apologize to you? Apologize, I repeated. Mirelda, Nora interjected, her voice shaky, l-lets just calm dow Get on your knees, the Queen demanded, her grip tightening on my collar, and beg me not to kill you right now. Apologize, I said again, unmoving. Mother the blonde girl said softly. Calm down. You have five seconds. Apologize. The Queens hand cracked across my face, snapping my head to the side. One. Apologize. Another slap. Two. Apologize. Again. Three. Apologize. Her hand struck once more. Four. Apologize, this time, I leaned in closer, my voice a whisper but sharp as a blade. You fucking whore. Chapter 103: Under attack Hearing my words, she threw a punch that sent me sprawling onto the table, knocking dishes to the floor. I had to admither right hook was solid. Everything became much clearer when that punch connected with my chin. Would she have forgiven me if Id apologized? Though, I knew it was too late for that. Now, all I could do was try to survive. This world had finally made me snapand I snapped at the last person I ever shouldve snapped at. A damned Queen. As I lay on the table, dazed, memories of my mother came back to me. I remembered her face when she accidentally shot meit was filled with devastation. Like she hadnt meant it I mean, I hope she didnt mean it. Our relationship had always been strained. At night, Id wake at every small noise, fearing shed come to beat me again or force more pills down my throat. Worse, I feared shed listen to the whispers in her head and convince herself I was something elsea doppelganger, maybeand decide to get rid of me. She was complicated, a hard woman to understand. The guards stepped forward, swords drawn, their blades aimed squarely at me. I rolled off the table, landing on my feet, my expression still as dull as ever. ======================== |Currently known skills: 3 ======================== Fireball(?) Void portal(?) Ice barrier(?) ======================== Void Portal I muttered under my breath. Guess its your time. Kill him! the Queen shrieked, pointing her finger at me. Bring me his damned head! I tapped the question mark beside Void Portal, and a new screen appeared, displaying the spell''s mana cost and other stats. Before I could read more, an ice shard shot toward my throat. I ducked just in time and sprinted toward the window. On the way, the blonde girl stepped into my path, her hands glowing with purple energy. Like firing a gun, she sent bolts of sparkling purple light my way. I conjured an Ice Barrier, easily deflecting her attack, then pushed her aside and kept running. Behind me, the guards gave chase, swords gleaming. Shit Reaching the window, I pulled the curtain aside only to see iron bars outside. Escape was impossible. Even if I broke through, Id plummet to my death from this height. I had no choiceVoid Portal was my only option. It felt strange, yet natural, as if I had cast the spell countless times. I turned to face my attackers and focused on a specific spot in the room. A thin, dark line appeared in the air, catching everyones attention. The guards froze, their eyes widening in horror. A tendril slithered through the line, followed by another. They gripped the edges of the line, trying to pull it open like a door. That felt familiar. Gods above, one guard whispered. Void magic No, no, no, another muttered, stepping back. The small line burst open, revealing a swirling, otherworldly dimension. It was dark and purple, with glowing stars scattered in the distance. Again---this felt strangely familiar for some reason. Suddenly, a massive eye appeared within the portalthe same eye that had brought me to this world. The solution to all of my problems. Tendrils, wet and veiny, slid into the room, twitching grotesquely. Some had small, blinking eyes embedded in their flesh. The sight was pure nightmare fuel. Apologize, I said, my voice cold and steady. One of the tendrils wrapped around the Queen, pinning her arms and legs. Another forced her mouth open. No! she screamed, her voice muffled as a tendril slid into her mouth.The tale has been illicitly lifted; should you spot it on Amazon, report the violation. I didnt see what the tendril was doing, but I somehow knew. I could feel it like an extension of my body, slithering deeper until it gently touched her beating heart. Grabbing her by the hair, I pulled her face toward mine. Apologize. Axel! Nora shouted, her voice trembling. Stop! Youre this isnt a toy! Apologize. Another line opened in the room, and more tendrils poured through. Then another, then another, two more---the room was filled with those weird lines and tendrils that came within. All the guards could do was watch as the lines opened, not even trying to save the queen Gods, Mirelda! Nora yelled. Just apologize! The tendril withdrew from the Queens mouth, retreating back into the portal. The Queen gasped for air, tears streaming down her face. Say it, I said, my grip on her hair unwavering. Damn your mother and you, you cunt, she choked, trembling. Bite me. For the longest time in my life I smiled genuinely. Oh, I will. The tendril whipped toward the Queen, landing with a sickening impact. She stood motionless for a moment before her body split cleanly in two and collapsed to the ground. The guards, frozen in shock, dropped to their knees, muttering desperate prayers. My eyes widened in horror. I hadnt meant to kill her. I only wanted to hurt her, make her regret what shed done. This wasnt me. No way. I couldnt have done that. I took a few steps back, my stomach churning, fighting the urge to vomit as I stared at her lifeless body. Shit, Nora muttered, her voice strained. This is your fault, Axel. You owe me a star for this. Before I could respond, she pulled a small ruby from her pocket. Without hesitation, she threw it to the floor and crushed it beneath her heel. As the gem shattered, everything around me dissolved into darkness. It was peaceful, an eternal rest with no burdens, no thoughtsjust the comforting embrace of nothingness. But then, I opened my eyes. I found myself back in my chair, a grape in hand, poised to toss it into my mouth. Across from me, the blonde girl dropped her spoon, clutching her head with a grimace. Behind her, Nora and Mirelda exchanged concerned glances, sensing that something was wrong. Wait wait, Nora muttered, her voice shaky. I just used the Time Star. But why? What happened? Time Star? the blonde girl asked, her brows furrowed. Its a one-of-a-kind artifact, Nora explained, her tone laced with tension. Breaking it rewinds time a few minutes for everyone. Theres no second copy of it in existence. Were we attacked? the Queen asked, her eyes narrowing. Maybe, Nora said cautiously. The artifact erases memories of events from before the reset, so no one remembers what happened after its used. Guards! the Queen barked, her commanding voice echoing through the chamber. Double the security immediately. We might be under attack by elves! Right away, maam! one of the guards responded, rushing out of the room. I feel Nora closed her eyes, concentrating. A void presence in this room. A faint one. Did a void creature attack us? Who even knows void magic? the blonde girl asked, her voice skeptical. No one can cast it. ======================== |Currently known skills: 3 ======================== Fireball(?) Void portal(?) Ice barrier(?) ======================== Void Portal I whispered, staring at the translucent skill box floating in the corner of my vision. Did I use that? The door slammed open, and the general rushed in, sword drawn, his face flushed from running. He quickly scanned the room, his keen eyes assessing the situation before moving toward with heavy steps. Are we under attack, Your Majesty? he asked, his voice steady but laced with urgency. You called for heightened security? Nora used the Time Star, the Queen explained, her voice measured but firm. Whats that? he asked, clearly unfamiliar. An artifact that rewinds time a few minutes when shattered, the Queen said. Its only used in dire emergencies. I trust her judgment. She thinks a void monster might be here. My men report to me every ten minutes, he replied. Everything is under controlno intruders, no elves, no void monsters. The area is secure. But Ill double check just in case. Queen Nora, may I borrow some of your men as well? Of course. Do as you will. Thank you, Queen. So why did I use the Time Star? Nora muttered to herself, frustration seeping into her voice. Mm Calm down, the Queen said, her voice commanding. Well wait it out and stay vigilant. Thum, she addressed the general, when youre done, go to the dungeons and confirm the prisoners are accounted for. Have the guards report every single suspicious detail they notice. I dont care if its a bird flying out of placeI want to know. Yes, Your Majesty, the general said with a bow. Ill see to it at once. With that, the general turned and left, leaving the tension in the room to thicken. Chapter 104: Room is ready I remained seated, my gaze locked on the floor, my mind a whirlwind of questions. Nora had broken an artifact that rewound time and erased our memories of the event. I needed to remember what happenedwhether Id used Void Portal or not. If I had, what exactly did I do? The questions were piling up, and the lack of answers gnawed at me. Attending this dinner had been a mistake. Hell, saving the Queen had been a mistake in the first place. I shouldve let her die and freed myself from her egotistical nonsense. The guards stationed in the room moved cautiously, their swords drawn. One approached a nearby window, peered outside, then, finding nothing, closed the curtains before returning to his post. This is bothersome, the blonde girl said, her posture straight and firm. Who would dare to attack us here? Elves, the Queen said with venom in her voice. Who else, Miu? Maybe the Star broke on its own? Miu suggested. Maybe it lost its power? Impossible, Nora interjected. Trust me on this, Miu. Something happened. I wouldnt have broken the artifact without reason. Miu grabbed a piece of orange from the table and ate it, her expression unreadable. I kept my eyes averted, staring at the ground as though it held the answers I sought. I hoped she was rightthat the artifact had malfunctioned or lost its powerbecause I couldnt take another attack. After the cannibals and the slavers in the cave, my quota for near-death experiences was long overdue Mirelda walked to the table and sat two chairs away from me. Her eyes flicked toward the small gap in the curtains before settling on me. She didnt speak, but the way she looked at me made it clear: she was suspicious. Playing it cool, perhaps, but definitely watching me. Do you know whats going on, Axel? she asked, her tone almost casual. No, Your Highness, I replied evenly. Of course, I dont. Funny how trouble always seems to follow you, she said, her gaze sharp. With all due respect, Your Highness, I replied, keeping my voice dull, you poisoned me and had Queen Nora charm me to determine if I worked with the elves. I believe theres no real reason for you to suspect me further. Who said I was suspecting you? Please stop treating him like an enemy, Mother, Miu interjected, her voice firm but respectful. He doesnt deserve this. He saved your life. Shes right, Mirelda, Nora said. Stop it. Axel isnt the enemy. If he wanted you dead, he wouldnt have lifted a finger when the elves attacked. Youre being paranoid. Fine, Mirelda said, throwing up her hands. I didnt realize Axel was the man of the night. Thank you, Your Highness, I said, my tone neutral. The room fell into silence, the tension thick in the air. After about two minutes, the door opened, and General Thum stepped inside. He bowed to both Queens before straightening his posture, ready to deliver his report. I rose from my chair, turning to face him. A small part of me hoped he came bearing good news. No enemies, Thum said. Everything is clear.If you spot this story on Amazon, know that it has been stolen. Report the violation. The prisoners? Mirelda asked. All accounted for, Thum confirmed. We are not in immediate danger. Queen Nora, how long can the Time Star rewind time? A few minutes, Nora replied. Three or four, at most. Whoever the enemy was could have attacked again by now, Thum said. Its been over five minutes. Either they changed their minds, or theyre planning a different approach. Im just glad I let Boey go with his friends, the Queen said, leaning back in her chair. Damned elves. What do we do now, Queen? the general asked, his voice steady. What are your orders? We wait until tomorrow, she replied, gesturing toward me with a slight tilt of her head. Prepare a room for Axel here. Sending him out into potential danger wouldnt be very queen-like of me, not after his help with the elves. Of course. Thum gave a curt nod before opening the doors. Itll be ready in a moment. Thank you, Your Highness, I said, watching Thum step out and shut the doors behind him. Youre very generous. I wasnt suspecting you, by the way, Mirelda said, her sharp eyes locking on me. I was just curious how you manage to stay so calm in situations like this. I dont understand, Your Highness. Like when the elves attacked us, she clarified. Your expression didnt change. It was as if youd already seen everything life has to offer and couldnt be bothered by any of it. Im nothing like that, Queen, I replied, shaking my head. I think you got the wrong impression Did you really love your mother, Axel? she interrupted, her fingers absentmindedly tracing the edge of her empty plate. Or are you just desperate? Her question caught me completely off guard. Desperate for what? I tilted my head down, staring at the floor, unsure how to respond. Did I love my mother? Of course, I did. Shed been my only constant after my dad left and my sister passed away. She worked two jobs to make sure I had enough to eat, enough to wear so my friends wouldnt mock me. She wasnt perfect, but she wasnt entirely bad either. She was okay. Definitely not Mother of the Year material, but she tried. How about you, Queen? I asked cautiously. Did you love your mother? Is that why you didnt kill her and instead banished her from Nutar? Mius eyes darted to Mirelda, as though this was a question she had wanted to ask but couldnt bring herself to. I dont know, Mirelda said, her voice softer now, her eyes thoughtful as they rested on me. She gave birth to me. Without her, I wouldnt exist. And I gave her a second chance instead of killing her outright. I think that makes us even. Ugh, Nora said, cutting through the moment. She tried to suffocate you in your sleep, didnt she? Some mothers I like you, Axel, Mirelda said abruptly, her voice shifting back to its usual serious tone. Talking to you feels refreshing, despite your dull aura. Grunting reflexively, I coughed awkwardly and looked at her. Thank you, Queen. That means a lot to me. We both know thats not true, she replied, her words as sharp as a blade. But Ill allow that lie to slide. I said nothing, simply nodding. It wasnt worth risking her agitationshe was the most unpredictable person Id ever encountered. Thanks to my deadbeat fathers interrogation tapes, I could usually figure people out quickly: the way they talked, ate, moved. But Mirelda? She was a different story entirely. The door creaked open, and Thum stepped inside. Queen, he said, bowing slightly. Axels room is ready. Good, she replied. You can retire to your room whenever youd like, Axel. Then I shall do that, Your Highness, I said, bowing to both queens. Thank you for the dinner. Leaving already? Nora asked, a hint of surprise in her voice. Yes, Your Highness, I replied. Im still feeling a bit sleepy. Probably the poisons aftereffects. Fine, Mirelda said dismissively. You may go. Thank you, Queen, I said, turning and following Thum toward the exit. Chapter 105: Full of weirdos Leaving the throne room, I let out a faint sigh and began following Thum. He glanced at me briefly, then turned his gaze forward, resting one hand on the hilt of his sheathed sword. I kept my eyes on the ground, hoping hed stay silent and avoid starting any unnecessary conversation. You did good, he said after a moment. Most people entering the throne room crumble under the pressure. It was difficult, I admitted. I crumbled under the pressure. Oh, dont be like that, he replied, chuckling softly. Id even go so far as to say you looked unimpressed by it all. Which is weird. Hmm I grunted noncommittally. Its nothing like that, of course. Id be disrespecting the Queen if I agreed. And possibly lose your head. Or swing from a tree, he joked, his voice carrying a dry humor. Depends on her mood, I guess. We walked in silence for a while, descending the staircase and heading down a long corridor. The palace was buzzing with activityguards rushed from one end to the other, rooftop archers patrolled with bows in hand, and every guard carried their swords at the ready instead of leaving them sheathed. Even the maids werent exempt. They had daggers strapped to their legs, concealed beneath their skirts but easily within reach. It seemed no one was taking any chances tonight. A single mistake, and it would cost their Queens life. May I ask you something? I said, breaking the silence as we passed a few patrolling soldiers. Sure, Thum replied without breaking stride. What is it? What happened to that woman---Suzan? I asked. Did you find her? No, he said, his tone somber. We went to your village and found what seemed to be her base. But it was empty, like theyd been gone for quite some time. You think she and her mother skipped town? Hard to say, Axel, Thum admitted. By now, they could be anywhere damned maniac cannibals. Hmm I muttered, more to myself than to him. We stopped in front of a large door, which Thum pushed open with ease. Inside was a spacious and well-furnished room. The double-sized bed sat between two tall windows, a chest at its foot with a pink cushion perched on top for seating. A wardrobe stood to the left, its ornate carvings matching the rich wooden furniture scattered about. On a small table beside the chest were bottles of wine and glass cups, neatly arranged. The rug beneath my feet was soft and vibrant, its strange patterns woven with deep reds and golds. I could probably sell this rug back in my world and buy myself a small fortune. This is rich, I said, taking in my surroundings. It is, Thum replied. Dont hesitate to step outside if you need anything. The maids will assist you. Alright. Thank you, sir. If you discover this tale on Amazon, be aware that it has been stolen. Please report the violation. He gave a quick nod and stepped out, closing the door behind him. Left alone, I wandered over to the window and gazed out. The streets below were eerily quiet, with only guards patrolling and the occasional stray animal moving through the fog and drizzle. The sight made me appreciate the security of the palace; I couldve easily been out there, braving the rain and lurking dangers. Sighing, I turned back and sat down on the bed. It was firm yet soft, a far cry from the lumpy excuses for beds Id encountered before. I tested its comfort by bouncing lightly a few times before laying back, letting my muscles relax. Still alive, at least, I murmured to myself. Couldve been worse, Ax. Couldve been way worse. As I closed my eyes, my mothers voice echoed faintly in my mind. I shifted to one side, pulling the blanket over my face to block out the dim light filtering through the curtains. Her voice came again, persistent, though I couldnt make out her wordsjust the sound of my name after a sentence. Exhausted and unwilling to deal with it, I turned to the other side, gripping the blanket tightly. Let me sleep I muttered under my breath. Outside my door, muffled voices disrupted the silence. Are we under attack? a maids anxious voice asked. They gave me this knife, and I dont even know how to use it! First of all, thats a dagger, a guard replied. Second of allmaybe? I dont think were under attack. Yet. What kind of maniac would attack the Queen in her own palace? Thats madness. Elves. Its always elves. Always. Their conversation trailed off as they walked past my door and disappeared down the hall. If there was an attack, I silently hoped the elves would focus on the Queen. I had no desire to get caught in another crossfire. Somehow, despite the noise and my racing thoughts, I managed to drift off for a moment. The world around me slowed, the sound of rain outside the window filling the silence. Just as peace started to settle over me, a knock at the door jolted me awake. Groaning softly, I rubbed my eyes, slid off the bed, and shuffled to the door. Opening it halfway, I found myself face-to-face with a young boy. Hello, he said. He had short blonde hair and striking blue eyes, looking no older than eight or nine. Two guards flanked him, standing stiff and alert. I recognized the boy from earlier; he had been seated at the table in the throne room when Id rushed in to deliver the Queen her dagger. Up close, though, there was an air of maturity about him that seemed out of place for his age. Hello, I replied, my voice groggy. Im Boey, he said. The Queens son. Oh right, I muttered, blinking a few times. I didnt know she had a son. I just returned to Kinowa. I was in Gatay with a friend, he explained. On the way here, I couldnt help but notice the destroyed forest. Yeah, I said, my tone flat. That was me. Impressive! he exclaimed, his eyes lighting up. How did you do it? They say youre in F class. I have no idea, I said. It just happened. And you saved my mother, he added, tapping a finger to his chin. I guess I shouldve started with that. Makes it sound like destroying the forest was more important. Huh I replied, unsure how to respond. I also Lord Boey, one of the guards interrupted. The Queen is expecting you. We shouldnt keep her waiting, especially with the current situation. Ah, youre right, Boey said, nodding. He turned back to me and extended a hand. Goodnight, Axel. Goodnight, I replied, shaking his small hand. He gave me a wave and walked off with his guards in tow. I shut the door, lingering for a moment before heading back to bed. This family is full of weirdos, I mumbled, collapsing onto the mattress. And the kid mightve taken the cake. TTTTTT?TTTTTT Chapter 106: Crafting The night passed uneventfully; no attacks on the palace, no sudden alarms. Yet, despite the calm, I couldnt find rest. I drifted off eventually but woke again hours before dawn, staring at the darkness and the faint outlines of the ceiling. I tossed and turned, hoping for sleep that never came. By the time the first rays of sunlight broke through the heavy clouds, I had given up, resigned to starting the day like many others: tired and irritable. Opening the door to my room, I stepped into the corridor and found myself face-to-face with a guard stationed just to the right. He stood tall, his chest puffed out as he gripped a spear, though his sheepish expression betrayed his inexperience. Its you, he said, his voice steady despite the nervous glance he gave me. Ive been assigned to protect you by the Queen. Is there something you need? I shook my head. No, Im good. Thanks. I hesitated, then added, I think Ill just head out. At this hour? He frowned, his grip tightening on the spear. Yeah. Ill check with the captain, he replied, already turning. Wait here. Leaning against the wall, I crossed my arms and watched him disappear down the corridor, his boots echoing faintly as he turned left at the end. The palace was quieter now, but still alive with purpose. Guards remained at their posts, their weapons still drawn, while maids hurried past, daggers sheathed at their thighs. The tension from the previous night hadnt entirely lifted. A couple of minutes later, the guard returned, this time accompanied by a familiar facethe man who had written me a permit the night I arrived in Kinowa when the curfew had just started. He had been with Giarda, the girl from the Diamond Eyes. I couldnt remember his name, just his face. Axel, he greeted as he approached. We meet again. Yeah, I said with a small nod. You probably dont remember much from that night, he remarked, a faint smile playing on his lips. Im Eliard. Recognition clicked. Right. Nice to meet you properly this time. Likewise, Eliard replied. So, youre looking to leave the palace? I am. He studied me briefly, then nodded. Alright. Well get a small carriage arranged. Thatd be great, I said, grateful for his efficiency. No problem. Just wait outsideitll only take a moment. He said. Well also get your school uniform. I was just going to ask about that. Thank you. No problem, kid. Stay safe. With that, Eliard turned on his heel and headed off. The younger guard motioned for me to follow, leading me through the wide corridors and out of the palace. As we stepped outside, I realised the rain had slowed to a drizzle, and the air hung cold and heavy. The wind had stilled, but the chill was enough to make me shiver slightly, even though I was used to it. We stopped at the main gates, where four guards stood watch, their faces weary. At the guards signal, they heaved the large doors open, their movements sluggish from the weight of the task or perhaps from exhaustion. I stepped through, turning to glance back as the gates shut behind me, the sound of grinding metal and creaking hinges filling the air. The guards on the other side gave me brief nods before resuming their posts. The carriage will be ready in two minutes, the younger guard said from behind the bars. His tone carried the faintest note of sympathy. Thanks, I replied. He gave me a faint smile. Take care out there, kid. You too, I muttered, turning my gaze to the misty horizon as I waited. Not even fifteen seconds later, a small carriage stopped in front of me, likely exiting through the side entrance. The coachman waved as he pulled the reins to halt the horses. I stepped forward, opened the carriage door, and climbed in. The design was the same as the one I had used before, though this one had no windows at all. This tale has been unlawfully obtained from Royal Road. If you discover it on Amazon, kindly report it. On the opposite seat lay my school uniform, repaired and neatly ironed. I picked it up and checked the spots where the elves'' arrows had struck. Every hole was fixed; it looked as good as new. At least I didnt have to visit a tailor and pay for repairs again. "Where to?" the coachman asked. "Boys dormitory," I replied. "Is that okay?" "Sure. Dormitory it is." "Thanks." He flicked the reins lightly to get the horses moving. "Why so early, boy?" "Couldnt sleep," I said, raising my voice slightly to ensure he heard. "Why?" "Insomnia. Its a pain." "Oh my wife used to have that," he said. "Hard to deal with. I get you." "Hmm." Level 5: Axel HP: [?] 135/140 Mana: [????????] -1/100 Stamina: [??] 100/120 Options: [Inv | Skills | Quests] It took me a moment to notice, but then I checked my level once moreI wasnt level four anymore. I tried to recall when I leveled up but couldnt pinpoint it. Staring at the status screen, I leaned back and crossed my arms, trying to remember how I earned experience points, but it was no use. I wasnt about to complain, though. Free experience was still experience. And also, it seemed like Id learned a new skill called ice shard. Useful. +-------------------------------+ | Ability Points | | Available: 0 | +-------------------------------+ | [+] Strength: (3) | [+] Agility: (2) | [+] Intelligence: (0) | [+] Constitution: (7) +-------------------------------+ | Confirm Allocation | [Confirm] [Reset] +-------------------------------+ I assigned all three points to Constitution, closed the screen, and exhaled. I needed sleep. Not being able to just close my eyes and doze off was frustrating. =================== NOTIFICATION =================== * Crafting Unlocked -------------------------------- | Current XP: 10 / 125 -------------------------------- | Progress: ???????????? ========================= "Crafting?" I muttered. Level 5: Axel HP: [???] 135/170 Mana: [????????] -1/100 Stamina: [??] 100/120 Options: [Inv | Skills | Quests | Crafting] Pressing the Crafting option opened a new screen displaying my items. My phone and the clothing I was wearing were highlighted in two large boxes. It looked a little complicated. ====================== CRAFTING MENU ====================== [1] Smartphone Upgrade ---------------------- Materials Needed: Common: 4 Uncommon: 2 [CRAFT] ====================== Available item materials: Common: 4 Uncommon: 2 ====================== * Crafting this will replenish the battery. ====================== Since I didnt need my phone at the moment, I dismissed the idea of upgrading it and glanced at the other upgrade option: the piece of clothing I was wearing. ====================== CRAFTING MENU ====================== [2] Royal Clothing Upgrade ---------------------- Materials Needed: Common: 1 Rare: 2 [CRAFT] ====================== Available item materials: Common: 4 Uncommon: 2 ====================== * Crafting this will grant +1 Armor. ====================== With no rare materials, the crafting option was grayed out. I leaned back and rested a finger on my chin, still trying to figure out how I had leveled up. Realizing it was pointless to dwell on it, I shook my head slightly. It seemed there were some new items I could craft instead of upgrade. However, with the carriage shaking every few meters, making it harder than it should be to read what was on the screen, I decided to check it once I arrived at the dormitory. "Okay crafting, huh?" I muttered. "I guess Ill need to do some quests for materials." =================== NOTIFICATION =================== * Item materials can be gained by disassembling items and crafting. =================== "Huh" I muttered, glancing at the screen. "Good to know, I guess Chapter 107: Finally it stopped Level 5: Axel HP: [???] 135/170 Mana: [????????] -1/100 Stamina: [??] 100/120 Options: [Inv | Skills | Quests | Crafting] Pressing the inventory option, another translucent box appeared in front of me. As it opened, the carriage jolted over a rock on the road, causing me to jump slightly. The top of my head bumped the ceiling, sending a dull throb through my skull. The horses neighed uneasily, but the coachman managed to calm them down easily. I rubbed my head, glancing out the window. This district, Norman, wasnt supposed to have roads this bad. Damn the driver muttered. Must be those rocks people threw at that poor guys house. Whose house? Dont know his name, he replied. But he was caught having an intimate relationship with an elf. Its not illegal, but it sure isnt acceptable around here. So people just throw rocks at his house? To drive him out of the city, yeah. You sound like you pity him, I said. Not hate him like the others. Love is love, he said. Doesnt matter the race. It should be like that but I get why folks are angry. Hmm. I shifted my focus back to the translucent box floating in front of me. My inventory was empty, with the exception of the royal piece of clothing I wore. Strangely, the box displayed a silhouette of me, highlighting the placement of the clothing on my midsection. Impressed by the level of detail, I tapped the armor icon. Another box appeared. ====================== ROYAL CLOTHING ====================== Armor: 0 Poison Resist: 10% Enchantment slots: ? (None) Upgrade Capacity: [] (2 Upgrades Remaining) ====================== I shouldve checked this stuff sooner, I muttered. What else am I missing? Any quests? Another translucent box popped up. ================ NEW QUEST ================ Quest Title: Treasure Hunt -------------------------- Deadline: - Objective: * Explore Gora Ruins and find the map Find this and other great novels on the author''s preferred platform. Support original creators! that leads to the treasure location. -------------------------- Rewards: - Gold: 1 - Experience: 25 XP - x4 Rare item material - x2 Common item material ========================== [Accept] [Decline] [Enhance] I didnt know where the Gora Ruins were and wasnt eager to risk my life exploring them. Closing the quest box, I opened the map. A small carriage symbol marked my current location, moving toward the boys dormitory. Scanning the map, I noticed a yellow exclamation mark near the girls dormitory. Curious, I tapped on it. A bubble appeared, reading: Someone has been stealing underwear from the girls dormitory. Put a stop to it. No rewards were listed, but even if there were, I wasnt about to touch that quest. If the theft wasnt common knowledge and I showed up offering help, everyone would wonder how I knew. Next I muttered, scrolling further. Another yellow exclamation mark appeared, this time with a less embarrassing description on the map: A homeless man is asking for help. Retrieve his stolen wooden leg. That I can do, I said to myself. Hopefully, the reward includes those rare item materials. My plans for starting the day with a hot coffee were derailed. First, I needed to deal with that homeless mans situation and track down his stolen wooden leg. Why anyone would steal something like that was beyond me. Were people in Kinowa really that desperate? Stealing another mans prosthetic to sell it offit was either pitiful or depraved. As the carriage rolled along, I glanced at the translucent map hovering in front of me. The exclamation mark marking the mans location was steadily growing closer. He was in the district of Hio, the same place where Janes father had taken me to a vailhouse after I was nearly dead. Can you stop here? I called out to the driver. The boys dormitory is just ahead, he replied. You sure you want to get off now? Still raining, though. Yes, sir, I said, nodding. Ive got something to handle in Hio. Suit yourself, boy, he said, pulling the reins to stop the horses. Take care. Stay out of trouble. I hopped out, shut the carriage door behind me, and looked around. Hmm. The map still floated before me, the exclamation mark close nowjust a short walk away, maybe five or six minutes. As I started down the street, the sun finally broke through the dark clouds, and the rain had slowed to a light drizzle. It wasnt ideal weather for walking, but I had no choice. Being an insomniac meant starting days like this was nothing new to me. Rounding a corner, I pulled my school uniform over my head to shield myself from the lingering drizzle. Did you hear about that idiot? A mans voice broke the relative quiet. No, what? his companion asked. Oh, you man that guy? Ugh what an idiot he is. Having a relationship with an elf, the first man said, his voice laced with disgust. Gods forbid! What kind of sick mind Disgusting, the second man interrupted. Its my brain just cant comprehend it. Why would anyone do that? Because some people are broken in the head, the first man said. Straight-up broken. Youre right. Absolutely vile. Disgusting. Hope he fucks off from this city. I got kids here. Kids. I dont want them to see these sick-minded people. We can only hope, friend. We can only hope. Their voices faded into the background as I turned down another street. Ahead, an open space surrounded by houses and taverns came into view. In the center were market stalls, most of them empty due to the weather. A few hardy vendors were setting up, placing goods on display despite the rains lingering threat. At the far end of the square, I spotted two guards stationed at the entrance to another street. I remembered themthey were tasked with checking who could enter the district, filtering out the poor, homeless, and even stray animals. Halt, one of the guards said as I approached. His eyes narrowed, scanning me. Remove that school uniform from your head. Let me see your ears. I sighed, pulling the uniform hood down. Not an elf, I said plainly. See? The guard relaxed slightly, nodding. Youre good to go. Sorry about that, citizen. The Queen ordered us to be extra cautious anyway, off you go, boy. Hmm. Hey, you heard about that guy? I heard as I walked away, the other guard talking to his companion. I was there, throwing rocks at him. What good would that do? the guard whod just talked to me said. We couldve just hung the bastard. Damned elf-fucker. Who in their right mind would have a relationship with an elf? Some people are just as dumb as a rock, I swear. At the end of the street, I stopped to consult the map one last time. The exclamation mark hovered just three blocks away, pinpointing a back alley between two shops. This translucent box and its features were proving to be incredibly useful. Glancing up at the sky, I noticed the rain had finally stopped. Good, I muttered, quickening my pace. Finally, it stopped..." Chapter 108: They dont end A few people on the street glanced my way as I passed by, their whispers barely audible over the sound of my footsteps. It seemed I had gained a bit of unwanted attention after the ordeal with the Queen. My appearance, not just my name, was becoming recognizable. I could only hope this would fade quickly, and life would return to normal. I didnt like this attentionit made me an easy target for any elves seeking revenge for their fallen. Is that him? a man murmured to his companion. Yeah, the scar on the side of his headdefinitely him, his wife replied. That doesnt look like an arrow scar, though. True. A claw, maybe? Something strange. From my left, another hushed voice joined in. Hey, thats the guy I was telling you about. Him? Get out of here. No way, came the response. He doesnt look like he could save anyone, let alone the Queen. Exactly. An F-rank saving the Queen? Sounds like nonsense. The general saved her, not him. I quickened my pace, muttering under my breath, Just forget about me already Reaching the end of the street, I cut through a narrow path between buildings and emerged onto a main street. Ahead, just as the map indicated, stood two shops. Between them was a small back alley where an elderly man leaned against the wall, seated on the ground. His long white beard stretched down to his chest, and his frail, malnourished frame was painfully evident. His left leg was missing, the pant leg hanging loose where it should have been. His ragged clothes were stained and torn, one sleeve blackened with scorch marks. Hello, I said, stepping into the dim alley. The man squinted at me, his gaze lingering on the fine clothes Id received from the fat man earlier. Oh, another rich boy flaunting his wealth? Nothing like that, I said evenly. I heard about your missing wooden leg and thought Id help. Why? he asked, suspicion thick in his voice. Whats in it for you? Nothing, I replied. Just want to help. I dont trust you, he snapped. Go away. Look, can you at least tell me who took it? I asked. Maybe I can get it back for you. He sighed, his bony hand pointing to a nearby rooftop. There. Some kids stole it and threw it up there one night. The guards wouldnt lift a finger to help me. Following his gesture, I spotted the wooden leg dangling from the edge of a nearby tavern roof. A few crows perched nearby, silently observing the street below. The tavern stood three stories tall, its roof entirely out of reach. Whoever threw the leg up there must have been either incredibly strong or incredibly cruel or both Great, I muttered, stepping closer to get a better view. On the third floor, a small balcony jutted out from one of the rooms. If I could climb up to it, I might be able to grab the leg and pull it down. However, the room appeared occupied, shadows moving behind the drawn curtains. The tale has been illicitly lifted; should you spot it on Amazon, report the violation. Thats going to be a tough climb, I said under my breath. Just leave it, kid, the man called out behind me, his voice a mix of desperation and defeat. Im fine like this. I really am. Turning, I saw his heartbreak etched plainly on his face. His gaze drifted down to the stump where his leg used to be, his shoulders slumping. After a long breath, he looked back at me, offering a small, resigned smile that didnt reach his eyes. This wasnt just about the leg. It was about dignity, and the spark hed lost when it was taken. You got up this early and decided to help an old man? he asked, narrowing his eyes suspiciously. Maybe, I said with a shrug. Ill see what I can do about the leg. You didnt hear me, kid? Leave it. Even if I get it back, those kids will just come again and steal it. Nah, its worth a shot, I said. Be right back. As I turned away, a pang of guilt struck me. I wasnt doing this out of pure kindnessI was chasing the reward this mission promised. Without it, Id probably walk past him like everyone else, not sparing him a second glance. In the city, winning felt more embarrassing than losing, and I was fine with it. I approached the tavern and tried the front doors. They didnt budge. A sign above read: Closed until 12. Grabbing a rock off the ground, I aimed for the leg perched on the edge of the rooftop. My first throw missed completely, the rock clattering against the wall before bouncing onto the street. Alright, focus, I muttered, picking it up again. This time, I shut one eye, took careful aim, and threw. The rock struck true, sending the wooden leg tumbling onto the third-floor balcony. Nice. Axel, a familiar voice called out from behind me. What are you doing here? Huh? I turned around to see the Queens son, Boey. He was accompanied by five guards, all of whom had their swords drawn, and a mage standing closest to him. The mage was eyeing me, though she didnt seem to expect any threats from my direction. Her gaze was naive and kind, like she wasnt really cut out for this kind of work. What a surprise, Boey said, his smile not faltering. I didnt think wed meet in a place like this. But we were following him, like you said? the mage asked. Havent we? My gods, Boey replied, shaking his head. You really are something else, Nara. You know that? You were following me, Lord Boey? I asked, my voice dull. Why, if I may ask? You may not. He grinned wider. So, why throw rocks at the balcony? Have you finally lost your mind because of my mother? No, I said, pointing to the wooden leg on the balcony. Im trying to get that wooden leg. It belongs to a homeless man. Some kids just threw it up there to mess with him. Then why not use a wind spell or something? Boey asked, arching an eyebrow. Oh, right. You were raised in a place where magic wasnt allowed and cant cast all your spells yet. You know a lot about me, Lord Boey, I muttered, my voice flat. Im the Queens son. Of course I do, he said, still smiling. Nara, get that wooden leg for Axel, will you? Yes, sir! Nara replied quickly. She raised her hands, and in an instant, the wooden leg began to levitate. It floated down gently, coming to rest at my feet. I picked it up and examined it carefully. No major damage, just a few scratches along the sides. Nothing serious. Thank you, Lord Boey, I said. You didnt have to do this. Oh, its the least I could do for destroying that forest, Boey said, scratching the back of his head. And saving my mother, of course. Lets not forget about that. R-right, I replied, suddenly feeling awkward. Anyways, Boey continued, waving a hand dismissively, Ill let you be. Goodbye, Axel. Ill see you soon. Yes, my lord. Thanks again. I stood frozen, watching them as they walked off toward the end of the street. This was probably the weirdest encounter Id had in a long time. Fuck me, I muttered under my breath, feeling drained. First the Queen, now her son. They dont end. Chapter 109: Handy The man secured the wooden leg in its place, gave it a few testing kicks against the ground, and seemed satisfied. As he straightened up, a translucent box materialized in front of me, showing that I completed the quest. Unfortunately, the rewards were underwhelmingno rare materials, no massive XP boost. Just the basics. Still, it was something. =================== NOTIFICATION =================== Side Quest Completed: Missing Limb ----------------------------------- + XP Gained: 15 + 4x Common Item Material ----------------------------------- | Current XP: 25 / 125 ----------------------------------- | Progress: ??????????? ========================= As the man tried to rise, I stepped forward to help, gripping his arm and steadying him. He tested the leg, taking careful steps while keeping one hand against the wall for balance. Slowly, he emerged onto the main street, taking a deep breath as if tasting freedom after days of confinement. Thank you, kid, he said, his voice a mix of gratitude and disbelief. I can walk again. Its been days. No problem. I still dont get your play, boy, he added, glancing at me sideways. But thank you. No play. Just wanted to help, thats all. Well, he said, placing a rough hand on my shoulder, thank you. Really. I wish I could give you something for the trouble. No need. Dont worry. Youre a good kid. Debatable. But thanks for the compliment. With a nod, he limped down the street, the faint sound of his steps fading into the crowd. Leaning against the wall, I crossed my arms and watched him until he disappeared from view. The sky above shifted uncertainly, clouds rolling in and out, indecisive in their intent. For a moment, it reminded me of my world, where the weather could never seem to make up its mind. Now I muttered, pushing off the wall. All I need is a coffee. As I began walking in the opposite direction, the desire to figure out the translucent box tugged at the back of my mind. But that could wait. A hot coffee, a bed, and a little peace were my priorities before school started. Man, I sighed, staring at the uneven cobblestones beneath my feet. I just want to go home this sucks. I lifted my eyes to the sky again, watching the dark clouds drift by. Everything and everyone seemed to move forward, but I was stucklost in this world with no clear path back to my own. Turning a corner, my attention was drawn to a massive carriage rolling down the street. It was nothing like the one Id recently riddena grand, opulent vehicle that demanded attention. Its frame was painted a deep ebony, accented with ornate gold carvings that spiraled elegantly along its edges. The wheels, large and reinforced with polished metal rims, seemed to glide effortlessly over the street. The door boasted a golden knob shaped like a lions head, and through the small window, I caught a glimpse of velvet curtains drawn halfway open. The horses pulling it were enormous, their glossy coats rippling with muscle. They wore decorative harnesses with small golden plates that shimmered in the faint sunlight. Two heavily armored guards flanked the coachman, their polished steel armor catching the light. Their spears stood upright like silent warnings. Through the window, I could make out four more guards seated inside, their silhouettes barely visible behind the luxurious curtains. Is that someone near me whispered. One of Harus followers? Enjoying the story? Show your support by reading it on the official site. Why is she here? Shes probably going to the Queen. The Queens at her palace, though. And the carriage isnt headed there. Maybe shes lost? Wow. One of Harus followers! So the Queen had kept her word, sending one of Harus followers to Sekers mother. Despite her ego and constant power-tripping, she had at least proven herself capable of fulfilling a promise. For a brief moment, my faith in her judgment felt justified. Then I remembered the agonising hours Id spent in the dungeon. That woman was strange. Good, I murmured, a rare sense of relief washing over me. At least shell get cured wonder how Seker will react, though. TTTTTT?TTTTTT Entering my room with the coffee in hand, I shut the door with my leg and placed the cup on the windowsill. Pulling a chair close, I settled down and took a long sip, gazing out at the cold, dreary weather. This quiet moment felt almost comforting. Every blink seemed to invite sleep closer, but I knew how it would go. As soon as I laid my head on the pillow, sleep would abandon me, leaving me staring at the ceiling. I missed my sleeping pills. Truthfully, I missed everything from my world, not just the pills. Taking another sip, I opened the status screen and tapped the crafting option. A new menu appeared, displaying potential upgrades and items available for crafting. The list included weapons like daggers, swords, shields, and even bows and arrows. Crafting required item materials, categorized into five types: Common, Uncommon, Rare, Epic, and Legendary. To create an Uncommon material, I needed to combine four Common materials. The same ratio applied for crafting Rare materials, but Epic and Legendary required six of the preceding tier. Hmm, lets see I said, getting up. I crouched down and pulled Phobes Armor out from under the bed. After adding it to my inventory, I navigated back to the crafting screen to check the upgrade requirements. ====================== CRAFTING MENU ====================== Phobe''s Armor Upgrade ---------------------- Materials Needed: Common: 4 Rare: 2 [CRAFT] ====================== Available Item Materials: Common: 8 Uncommon: 2 ====================== Crafting this will grant: +2 Armor. ====================== Okay what about its stats? I said, sitting back into the chair. ====================== PHOBE''S ARMOR ====================== Armor: 1 Poison Resist: 10% Enchantment Slots: ? (None) Upgrade Capacity: [] (3 Upgrades Remaining) ====================== So, I can upgrade it three times I also remember theres a disassemble option. The armors name appeared in a box with a white background, denoting its Common rarity. It wasnt much, but it had saved my life during the bear attack. I removed the rich clothing gifted by the fat man and slipped back into my school uniform. The clothing vanished into my inventory when I placed my finger on it and held it for a moment. A white circle appeared, slowly filling as the item was registered. The disassemble option popped up as a new menu. =================== NOTIFICATION =================== Disassemble: Rich Clothing? ----------------------------------- + 2x Epic Item Material + 5x Uncommon Item Material ----------------------------------- [Confirm] [Cancel] Without hesitation, I pressed confirm, and the clothing disappeared from my inventory. Returning to the crafting screen, I checked my updated materials: two Epic, seven Uncommon, and eight Common item materials. I needed two Rare and four Common materials to upgrade the armor. Fortunately, by combining four Common materials into a single Uncommon and then converting those to Rare materials, I was able to meet the requirement. Lets upgrade it Pressing craft, the material counters in the top corner adjusted accordingly. Moments later, a confirmation screen popped up, notifying me that the upgrade was successful. I took another sip of coffee, then examined the updated stats. ====================== PHOBE''S ARMOR (+1) ====================== Armor: 3 Poison Resist: 10% Enchantment Slots: ? (None) Upgrade Capacity: [] (2 Upgrades Remaining) ====================== At first glance, the armor looked unchanged, but as I ran my fingers over the fabric, it felt noticeably sturdier. Handy, I muttered. I wonder what else I can do with this translucent box. Chapter 110: Five minutes I stretched my arms and groaned, draining the last sip of coffee before throwing myself onto the bed. I didnt own a mirror, but I could imagine how awful I lookedred eyes from countless sleepless nights, dark circles beneath them, and hair that was an unkempt mess. Sleep was what I needed, desperately, yet it never came. Pulling the blanket over my head, I focused on steadying my breaths, hoping for rest. But, as always, only the heavy weight of exhaustion greeted me. Level 5: Axel HP: [?] 139/170 Mana: [????????] -1/100 Stamina: [??] 106/120 Options: [Inv | Skills | Quests | Crafting] I stared at the translucent status screen, my eyes lingering on the options, my mind circling the same unanswered questions. How had I even leveled up? My memory of the palace incident, where Nora used her Time Star, was hazy at best. Had we been attacked? Did I defend myself? And if we truly rewound time, why did I forget everything while this strange interface remembered it all and still gave me the experience points? Questions, questions, I muttered. Too few answers. Wanting to test the new skill I''d acquired from leveling up, I decided to cast Ice Shard. Reaching my hand toward the ceiling, I focused on the spell, channeling my mana into it. A moment later, an ice shard materialized in my palm. I grabbed it with my other hand, tossed it into the air a couple of times, then threw it to the ground. The spell faded a few seconds later, disintegrating into a flurry of blue dust. The growing frustration gnawed at me. My body ached with fatigue, but my mind refused to settle. So tired Turning on my side, I gazed out the window. The sun had climbed higher, casting warm light across the cold ground. School hours were closing in, and the coffee hadnt helped enough to shake off my weariness. What I needed was a hot bath to reset my senses. I shifted into a sitting position, leaning forward with my elbow on my knee, my palm half-covering my face as I rested my chin on it. Sunlight bounced off the edge of an arrow lying near the bed, catching my eye. Hunting it wasnt a terrible idea. Experience points from hunting might give me a shot at improving my survival here. Dragging myself up, I shuffled to the door and swung it openharder than I intended. The edge slammed into the side of the bed and ricocheted back, hitting me square in the head. Damn it! I hissed, rubbing the sore spot and muttering curses under my breath. Shaking my head, I stepped out into the corridor. A few students sat on benches near the windows, sipping coffee and nibbling on breakfast. It was comforting to know I wasnt the only one up early. School wouldnt start for another hour or so, leaving plenty of time to kill. Spotting a student passing by, I called out, Hey, sorry to bother you. Where are the baths? This tale has been unlawfully lifted without the author''s consent. Report any appearances on Amazon. Upstairs, he replied, pointing to the staircase. Turn left at the top. Youll see it. Thanks. No problem. I trudged to the stairs, each step feeling heavier than the last. I didnt have a robe or extra clothes, but I hoped the baths would provide something. Another regret to add to the growing listI shouldve asked the Queen for gold after saving her. Since arriving here, second-guessing my choices had become a constant companion, something I never allowed myself back in my world. Gripping the railing, I climbed the stairs. At the top, the layout mirrored the floor below, except for a bath door immediately to my left. A student stood just outside the door, his hands clasped behind his back, waiting. Hey, I said as I approached him. Id like to take a bath. All the baths are occupied at this moment, he replied. Come back in two minutes. Would that be okay? Sure. Do I get a towel or something? No, but you probably wont need it anyway. No need to worry about it. Probably? Yeah. Trust me. Okay Ill be back in two. I walked to the end of the corridor and leaned against the windowsill, gazing outside. Across the street, near the girls dormitory, a group of girls stood outside the doors of their building, chatting. A guard was with them, his tone serious as he gestured animatedly. Though I couldnt hear the conversation, I was sure it was about the side quest marked on my mapa pervert stealing underwear from the girls dormitory. "Looks like that boy is still stealing," a student next to me muttered to his friend, both peering out another window. "Whats he doing with all those panties, though? Selling them? I mean whats up with him? Who knows," the other replied with a shake of his head. "The guys been at it for almost a week now. Weirdos, man. Damn weirdos." Right? Hope they catch him soon. They should just put a guard near the dormitory. The conversation struck a familiar chord. Similar nonsense happened back in my world toobullying, stealing, self-proclaimed tough guys forming cliques to terrorize others. This wasnt new to me, unfortunately. Outside, I kept my gaze on the girls dormitory. Two more guards joined the scene, and one of the students pointed toward a second-floor window. It was broken, the frame hanging loose on its hinges. The latch seemed completely busted, unable to secure the window shut. Every gust of wind pushed it open, only for it to sway back again. Eh the first student scoffed. First, the elves attack Redwood. Now this? I bet its the elves again. Its always the elves, the other added bitterly. Always. Damned monsters... Hmm, I muttered, watching the commotion outside while eavesdropping on their conversation. "Always the elves, huh? Id doubt that. Oi, look, the second student hissed, lowering his voice. Isnt that the guy? The student who saved the Queen? Who? Shit, youre right. Didnt even realize he was here. Sneaky. A door creaked open, breaking my focus. I glanced back to see the student who had been using the bath stepping out, his hair still slightly damp. Pushing myself off the windowsill, I headed toward the bath. This time, my steps were brisk. As I approached, the boy standing guard at the door stepped aside and motioned for me to enter. You can go now, he said. Just wait two minutes before the water resets. Resets? Yeah. Each student gets five minutes, by the way. Dont go over, or Ill have to come in after you. Got it? Right, I said, stepping inside as he closed the door behind me. Got it. Thanks for the info. Chapter 111: Two-tired Inside was a compact room, its layout simple yet functional. Three of the walls were lined with square shower stalls, leaving the wall with the entrance for benches and a few wooden coat hangers. The air was heavy with steam, curling up from both under and above the shower stalls, giving the space a slightly hazy atmosphere. The floor, a pristine white, was spotless and the room carried the faint, pleasant scent of shampoo. The low ceiling felt claustrophobic; I had the distinct impression that if I jumped at full strength, my head would collide with it. Small rectangular windows sat just above shoulder height, positioned one or two meters apart, letting in dim natural light. A lone column stood at the center of the room, with a fading smiley face someone had drawn on it. The steam had caused the ink to bleed slightly, giving the face a warped, melancholic appearance. The room contained twelve shower stalls, each with its door shutexcept for one. I approached it, peering inside. The stall was bone dry, as if untouched for an entire day. Hesitating for a moment, I stepped inside and closed the door behind me. "Well, okay..." The shower head mounted on the wall looked nothing like the ones I was familiar with. Instead of a metallic nozzle, it resembled a small wooden trunk, complete with tiny openings where the water would flow. Beneath it was a single button embedded into the wall. I pressed the button. Water trickled out at first, then began cascading from the openings, warm and soothing. Nodding in approval, I removed my clothes, hung them on the hooks above the stall, and stepped under the stream. The warmth of the water hit me, and I let out a long, contented sigh. There was something extraordinary about itit felt cleaner, purer than ordinary water. Somehow, it managed to wash away the grime and fatigue without the need for soap or shampoo. Placing one hand on the tiled wall, I shut my eyes and tilted my head back, letting the water run over my face and down my body. This is good, I muttered, my voice almost drowned out by the sound of the stream. After a few minutes, I decided it was enough. Pressing the button again, the water stopped abruptly. Then, to my surprise, warm air began blowing from vents in all four directions, drying me off efficiently. Holding my arms up, I let the air do its work, amazed at how quickly it evaporated every drop. Once dry, I put on my school uniform, feeling refreshed and alert for the first time in what felt like days. Nice. I muttered, leaving the stall. Axel! a familiar voice called from my right. Morning. I turned to see Leo emerging from a stall, his school uniform already in place. His hair, still slightly damp, clung to his face in messy strands. I nodded in greeting, adjusting my cravat and running a hand through my hair to shake off the last bit of moisture. The student from earlier wasnt exaggeratingtowels were practically unnecessary here. Even the floor was dry, allowing me to walk comfortably in my socks. Some sort of magic was definitely at play, keeping the entire room immaculate. Unauthorized duplication: this tale has been taken without consent. Report sightings. Youre up early, Leo said, tying his hair into a loose bun. Couldnt sleep after the dinner with the Queen? Yeah. It was a nightmare. Heh, Leo chuckled, buckling his pants before slipping on his boots. I can imagine. They say our Queen is even tougher than her husband, the former King. She is, I replied, my tone flat but filled with conviction. The other students began filing out of their shower stalls, fixing their hair and straightening their school uniforms while chatting in small groups. The last to leave was Aiden, still shirtless, his broad frame and well-defined muscles on full display. His physique clearly reflected his lineage as a blacksmiths son, with a six-pack and strong, muscular arms. Aiden spotted us and raised a hand in greeting while slipping one arm into his shirt, then the other. He strode over confidently, buttoning his shirt as he approached. Morning. Youre up early, he said. Couldnt sleep after the dinner, I replied flatly. It was a nightmare. Oof. What happened? he asked, his eyes locking onto mine as he fastened the last button. Did she poison you or what? What a guess it was. Uh Ill tell you later. Long story. Long story, huh? Seker? I asked, glancing at Leo. Where is he? I thought hed be with you guys. Leos expression darkened slightly. He went to see his mother. Poor guy cant catch a break. Hey! People are waiting! the student guarding the door hollered impatiently from outside. Be quick about it! Lets go, Aiden said, motioning toward the door. Breakfast, Axel? Yeah, I could grab a bite. Your Majesty wouldnt like the peasant food we serve here, Leo quipped with a smirk, bowing mockingly. O great one, forgive us. Please. I doubt even a single chef at Queens palace could match Killoras cooking, Aiden said, chuckling as he started walking. He is the best chef in Nutar. The best of the best. Oh, right. Forgot about that. Leo scratched his head. Guess the joke doesnt work if Whens the last time one of your jokes did work? Aiden cut in. You should give it a rest, man. Sorry to give you the bad news. Says the blacksmith with a forge stuck up his ass. Was that another joke? Aiden asked, raising an eyebrow. It didnt even make sense. Jokes dont have to make sense, Leo shot back. Oi, Axel. Make a joke. Hmm? I murmured, breaking my silence as I followed them toward the door. Id rather not. Come on, dont be like that! Crack a joke, he urged. Hmm I thought for a moment. I only knew one single joke, and it was James. So it was probably bad. Why did the bicycle refuse to stand up? Silence. Leo and Aiden shared a confused look. Well, uh, what is a bicycle? Leo asked, looking genuinely confused. Or who? Oh never mind. I waved it off. What was the punchline? Aiden asked, opening the door for us. At least tell us that. Because it was two-tired to stand up. Too tired to stand up? Leo repeated, furrowing his brow. I dont get it. Yeah, same here, Aiden added. Is this bicycle person an old man? Or dead? Leo asked. He could be dead, who knows, eh? Just forget it, I muttered, stepping through the doorway last and closing the door behind me. It was a stupid joke. Sorry to judge you, Leo, Aiden said as we walked. Turns out youre not the worst. Chapter 112: A fan After descending two flights of stairs, we reached the main hangout area and settled at a table to wait for breakfast. Since it was still early, we had about ten minutes to kill before the first meal would be served. The room was nearly empty, save for five or six other students scattered across tables, sipping coffee or tea as they read books. Killora, the mustachioed cook, wasnt behind the bar. Instead, I spotted him through an open door, stirring something in a cauldron. Leo leaned back in his chair, balancing on two legs while rocking slightly. Aiden placed his bag beside the table, and I sat quietly, my eyes drawn to the steam rising from Killoras cauldron. Wonder how Sekers doing? Leo asked, breaking the silence. Hope that freak of a human isnt there. Who? Aiden asked. Her mothers boyfriend? Yeah. Who else? Leo replied, scowling. Damned gambler. Yeah Aiden muttered. Maybe we shouldve gone with him, Leo suggested. He didnt want us to, Aiden said, shrugging. But yeah. Maybe we shouldve? I dont know. You went with him, right? Leo asked, turning to me. How was his mother? She seemed fine, I said, keeping it vague. Ugh shes probably hiding how bad it really is so Seker wont worry, Leo sighed. Wish I could just get her blessed. Its waaay too expensive, Aiden said, shaking his head. I dont think even the richest guy in Kinowa could afford that easily. Meanwhile, Killora carried the cauldron to a smaller table behind the counter, using towels to protect his hands. After setting it down, he disappeared briefly into the kitchen and returned with metal trays, arranging them neatly on the counter. Whatever he was cooking smelled incredible, and the rich aroma made my stomach grumble. The others werent exaggeratingthis mustachioed man really was one of the best cooks in all of Nutar. Come on, early birds, Killora called out. Breakfast is ready. Sweet, Leo said, hopping to his feet. Lets eat, boys. Im starving. The three of us got up and approached the counter, ahead of anyone else since most students were likely still in their rooms, wrapped in warm blankets. Annoyingly, just thinking about sleep made me feel drowsy again. I knew that the moment I hit the bed, though, the sleep would vanish. My favorite chef, Leo said, grinning. How are you? Heh, Killora chuckled, twisting his mustache. As good as one can be. You? Normal as one can be, Leo quipped. Smells amazing, whatever youve made. And trust me, it tastes just as good. Killora handed me a tray filled with a hearty breakfast: freshly baked bread, fluffy scrambled eggs topped with herbs, crispy strips of cured meat, roasted vegetables seasoned with garlic and spices, and a bowl of creamy porridge drizzled with honey. I nodded my thanks and returned to our table. Aiden and Leo followed soon after, their trays similarly full. Agh, Leo groaned, sitting down. Im glad I got up early. Waiting in the breakfast line is exhausting. Poor girls, Aiden said, gesturing toward a window that offered a view of the girls dormitory. Another piece of underwear got stolen. If you spot this narrative on Amazon, know that it has been stolen. Report the violation. Hmm? Leo looked up. Oh, yeah. That mysterious guy again. What a creep. I stayed quiet, picking up my fork. This has been happening regularly? For about a week, I think, Leo replied. Hmm, I murmured, frowning slightly. Oh, Axel! Killora called out from behind the counter as he served another student. Come see me when you finish eating. I forgot to tell you something. Sure, I said, raising my voice slightly to be heard. Dont forget, he said firmly. Its important. TTTTTT?TTTTTT Placing my tray aside, I leaned back and shut my eyes. Breakfast had been incrediblesomething people in my world would spend thousands on without hesitation. Leo seemed equally satisfied, while Aidens thoughts were clearly elsewhereprobably with Seker. It wasnt hard to guess he was worried about his friend and the tension at home if his mothers boyfriend was there. I didnt know that gambler of a boyfriend personally, but it didnt take much to figure out he was bad news. The tables were now packed, and latecomers in line were being forced upstairs to search for seats. Leo had been rightgetting up early had been a good call. Otherwise, wed be stuck waiting at least half an hour just to get food. Im stuffed, Leo groaned, leaning back dramatically. I could sleep the entire day away. Told you not to eat so fast, Aiden muttered. But, as usual, you didnt listen. Glancing out the window, I noticed two guards stationed outside the girls dormitory, flanking the entrance. Whoever the pervert was, theyd have to think twice now. Sneaking into the rooms wasnt going to be as simple as before. People seem to recognize you, Axel, Leo said, nudging me with his elbow. Youre famous, huh? Hey, I said, deflecting the comment. I think Id like to fight in the tournament. Huh? Aiden asked, leaning in with a curious expression. Why the sudden change? Thought itd be fun, I lied. Can I join you guys? If it werent for the Queen, this conversation wouldnt be happening. But since she had held up her end of the deal, I had no choice but to do the same. If she wanted to watch me fail spectacularly in the tournament, then so be it. I had never even held a proper knife, let alone a sword or shield. This was bound to end in humiliation. Great. Of course! Leo said enthusiastically. Now we have four members. Just need one more to qualify. Are you sure, Axel? Aiden asked, skeptical. You didnt seem interested in the tournament just a few days ago. People can change, I said with a shrug. Ill go see Killora now, find out what he wanted to tell me. Yep, Leo said, waving me off. Well be here. I walked over to Killora, bypassing the line where students were waiting. Instead, I approached the counter from the opposite side, placing my tray down where a worker promptly grabbed it and tossed it into a crate. Sitting down on one of the stools, I waited as Killora handed food to a student. When he noticed me, he smirked and handed off the tray. Then, shaking his head with a knowing grin, he turned to me. I didnt know you had fans, kid, he teased, grabbing another tray. You dirty, dirty devil. A fan? Yeah, he said. She was here a few minutes ago. You were upstairs. While I was taking a shower, huh? Who was he? He? No, its a she, he corrected. She even left you a message. She came here even though this is the boys dorm? Oh, she looked oldermid-twenties, maybe. Had a hood on, so I didnt get a good look, he said with a shrug. But youre missing the point, kid. You have a fan! Okay what did she say? She said Killora leaned in for effect, lowering his voice. And I quote, I cant wait to catch up with you again, Axy-Axy. A chill ran down my spine as I swallowed hard. Out of the corner of my eye, I caught sight of a hooded figure standing outside the window. As she lifted her head to smile, my stomach dropped. It was Suzan. The deranged woman who sold human and dog meat in her tavern. The maniac cannibal. She waved at me playfully before walking to the right and disappearing from view. Without thinking, I bolted outside, nearly crashing through the door. But she was gone. Shit, I muttered under my breath, my heart racing. Now what are you going to do, Axy-Axy, huh? Chapter 113: Eaten or chopped to bits My eyes scanned the end of the street, searching for any suspicious movement, but all I saw were people going about their day. Not a single hooded figure in sight. Still breathing heavily like Id just run ten kilometers, I pressed my right hand to my chest and leaned against the dormitory wall. My heart was racing like crazy. That Suzan woman was making me jumpy and on edge. Yet, thinking back to when I snuck into her base, I was sure it wasnt her trying to kill me. It was that weird thing tied to the wordless book. Orlaath, the Gluttonous Queen of Endless Desire, had been controlling Suzan. But I had no idea why shed specifically chosen her. Was Suzan just as twisted as Orlaath? Or was it fate? Again, I had too many questions and not enough answers. I hated it. You all right, kid? a guard asked, walking up to me. You look like youve seen a ghostor maybe caught sight of that pervert stealing panties? No, sir, I said, shaking my head. I think Suzan was just here. I saw her. Suzan? He furrowed his brows. That crazy cannibal? Theres no way shes still in Kinowa, kid. She probably bolted to the nearest city. We even dropped the investigation. Dont be paranoid. No, no. I said with a dull voice, refusing to back down. I saw her. She was wearing a hood and... I saw her. I swear. Youre Axel, right? he said, his tone softening. I heard what happened with her. You fought her bravely. Thats why youre so on edge. You fear she might go after you or something, right? I understand. Fought her? I asked, trying to catch my breath. I barely made it out alive. I didnt fight her off. You saved our men in that cabin. Her and that maniac of a mother drugged the soup, he explained. But you stopped them. That was brave, kid. Id like to shake your hand. One of my friends was stationed there. You saved his ass. Oh, I muttered, my voice flat. Sure. We shook hands, and he gave my shoulder a pat before stepping back. He didnt seem to believe me, and from what he said, theyd already closed the investigation on Suzan and her mother. The other guards wouldnt take me seriously as well if that was the case. What a mess Id gotten myself into... Why was she still here? Was it because of me? If so, I wanted to wake up from this never-ending nightmare. A deranged cannibal after me was the last thing I needed in my otherwise dull and normal life. Well, Ive got to go, kid, he said. Stay safe. Yes. Thank you, sir. Axel! a voice called out. I turned to see Jane waving at me near the girls dormitory doors. Hey! Jane? I said, walking toward her. She met me halfway. Whats up, what happened? Hey, good morning, she greeted awkwardly. I, uh I wanted to ask if youd like to join our team for the tournament. I know I asked this before but--- Im already in a team, I replied. Leo, Aiden, Seker, and I. But were looking for another member. I can recommend you if youre interested. The narrative has been taken without permission. Report any sightings. Oh Im already in a team. I cant do that. Sorry. Shame, I said, wanting to cut the conversation short. Well, see you. And dont worryI havent forgotten the gold I owe your father. Ill pay him back. You dont need to I do, I interrupted, already walking back toward the boys dormitory. See you. Y-yeah, she stammered, sounding unsure. See you TTTTTT?TTTTTT Pushing the double doors open, I entered Redwood and began walking toward my classroom. The sidelong glances from students had noticeably lessened. The story of me helping the Queen was slowly fading from memory, replaced by rumors about the Queen and the general being a couple. This was good. I was relieved that people were forgetting me, letting me blend into the crowd. The first lesson was still twenty minutes away, so I decided to sit at one of the tables near the giant tree in the hall. Thats when I spotted Mox quietly reading a book, seated at one of the tables. This was goid opportunity for me. Hey, I said, walking toward her. Oh, Axel, she said, looking up. Morning. I never thought youd start a conversation with someone willingly. Do you have a team for the tournament? Wanna join our team? Straight to the point, huh? She smirked, leaning back. No small talk. I like it. Hmm. Dont be a stranger. Sit. She gestured to the empty chair. I did as she suggested and adjusted my cravat. Without Phobe around to help, Id done my best to tie it myselfunsuccessfully. The knot was too short, and it looked ridiculous. Mox noticed, stifling a chuckle as she shook her head. Since embarrassment wasnt something I felt much anymore, I just stared back at her with my dull, half-lidded eyes. Scraping her chair back, she stood and walked over to me, leaning in close. She grabbed my cravat and untied it. This is the most pathetic cravat tying Ive seen in my entire life, she said. Were you about to invite me to a team looking like a circus clown? Yes. Well. She sighed, draping the cravat over my shoulders and starting to retie it. Whos on your team? Leo, Aiden, Seker, and me, I replied, my gaze wandering to her neckline. I caught a glimpse of the edge of her blue brathough I tried to hide that I was looking. Would you join? Maybe, she said, fixing my collar after finishing the knot. But I didnt hear you say please. Please. Then I shall. She sank back into her chair, looking satisfied. We should start training after school. Yeah, I agreed. We should, I guess. I thought you werent going to join, though. What changed your mind? The gold reward, I said flatly. That changed it. Ah, but of course, she said, her scaled wings twitching slightly. Gold. Hmm. I stood up, pushing my chair back into place. I guess were done here. You just sat down, she protested. And now Im getting up, I replied. See you. Ugh yeah, yeah, she said, waving dismissively. See ya, weirdo. I walked over to a window, peering outside. The garden was filling with sleepy-eyed students, dragging themselves toward their classes. My thoughts drifted back to Suzan. She had been so close to where I stayed. Too close. I needed to deal with herbut how? She was dangerous, and I didnt even know where to start. I need to level up, I muttered to myself. Or Im dead. Either eaten or chopped to bits. I have to get stronger Chapter 114: King Loa I turned back and made my way toward the classroom. More guards were stationed inside the school than usual, likely because of the recent threat to the Queens palace. Normally, thered be just one or two guards patrolling, but now there were at least ten. The students seemed tense, their movements stiff under the watchful eyes of authority figures. Unlike them, I didnt mind the added security. In fact, I welcomed itanything to keep Suzan and her deranged maniac mother at bay. Walking into the classroom, I took my usual seatthe one closest to the teachers desk. The window beside me revealed clear skies, with the rainwater on the city walls slowly drying under the suns warmth. Hey, I said, calling out to a random student who was settling into his chair. Sorry to bother you, but where do I get my books? Mr. Poley will probably hand them out today, he replied. Right. Thanks. With those books, I could finally learn more about this world. Maybe theyd even have information on the translucent quest box that kept popping up. If I could figure out how it worked, perhaps I could level up more efficiently. Jane entered the classroom shortly after, walking directly to her seat without sparing me a glance. Perfect. I kept my head tilted down, pretending to be absorbed in the grain of the wooden desk. In reality, I was just ignoring her, hoping she wouldnt start another unnecessary conversation with me about the tournament. Good morning, one of her friends greeted her as she sat down. Did you ask him yet? Yeah, no. He already has a team, Jane replied. Well, then well go with that girl from Class C? Yeah. Lets do that. It was clear these students were taking the tournament very seriously. Not that I blamed them. With a reward of that much gold, who wouldnt? If I were a permanent resident of this world, Id probably do the same. But I wasnt planning on staying here even though I had no idea how to get back to my world. The last thing I wanted was to be dragged into a war like the Lost 100. The thought of me being stuck here, doing odd jobs for survival was haunting. I just wanted to be in my comfort zone again. Where everything was predictable. Where everything was well, normal, not batshit crazy. Change is bad, I muttered under my breath. Change is bad, Ax. Okay, class! Mr. Poley called out as he entered the room. Settle down, everyone. As you all know, lessons are cut short today, so well start a bit early. Should I get the rest of the students, sir? one student asked, raising his hand. Theyre still at the grand tree waiting for class to start. Yes, please do that. Sir? another student asked as the first one left. Is there any news about the attack? No attack or move has been made against the Queen, Mr. Poley said. It seems to have been a false alarm. But lets remain vigilant, just in case. Will the tournament training sessions be canceled again? a third student inquired. No, Mr. Poley answered. Not today. Training will proceed as scheduled, under my supervision. The class collectively exhaled in relief. Yes! Finally. I was starting to think that the tournament was going to be cancelled! Phew. Great. I stayed silent, lost in thought. The more I considered my current situation, the more I realized how unprepared I was for what might come. Suzan, Orlaath, and this tournament I wasnt ready for any of it. But I didnt have a choice. If I wanted to survive, I had to keep moving forward. This story originates from Royal Road. Ensure the author gets the support they deserve by reading it there. Mr. Poley, as if remembering something he shouldnt have forgotten, looked at me and raised his index finger. I forgot your books in the library, Axel, he said. Ms. Miop, can you sit with Mr. Millo again and lend him your book? Of course, sir, said the quiet Noxivera girl sitting in the backthe same one who had shared her book with me before. I slid over as she came to sit beside me. She opened the book to the first page and leaned back. The days lesson appeared to focus on history, covering topics like the Lost 100 and the war where elves aided Nutar before betraying them and forcing them into submission. The book had illustrations of the Lost 100, who were students from this very school. I silently hoped I wouldnt end up as another picture in a history book someday. Moments later, the students lingering at the grand tree knocked and entered the classroom. After bowing in apology, they quickly took their seats as Mr. Poley gestured for them to settle down. The war between Bhar, Sultan of Hilzaan, and--- Mr. Poley began, sitting on the edge of his desk. Who can tell me the name of our king during that era? The teacher scanned the room until his gaze landed on Jane, who had her hand raised. He nodded, and she stood to answer. King Loa, she said. Correct. The war between Sultan Bhar, and our King Loa will be our topic. Mr. Poley affirmed. Now---King Loa was... a peculiar man. He banned the consumption of alcohol and shut down every brothel in Nutar. Yet, he was found dead in his bed, surrounded by wine bottles and women. Was he assassinated? a student asked. Well come back to that later. The students murmured among themselves. His death was after the war with Bhar. Lets backtrack, the teacher continued. Just after King Loas father passed away and he ascended to the throne, Sultan Bhar orchestrated an attack on a small village, killing most of its inhabitants within a week. He managed this by bribing guards and district captains to aid him. Why would he do that? another student asked. Because Bhar needed supplies. His kingdom was situated in a desert, Mr. Poley explained. He proposed trade routes with Nutar, the closest city. But Loa refused, claiming it wasnt profitable. So, he drew blood in response. Was it profitable? Miop asked, her voice soft but curious. It wasnt, Mr. Poley said. Bhar offered to pay far less than other nations, like Gatay, for our goods. On top of that, Bhar had a terrible reputation. He was a liar, a wife-beater, and someone who never kept his promises. I leaned back in my chair, arms crossed, as Miop flipped through the pages. Mr. Poley continued describing the war, explaining how Nutar was outnumbered and on the brink of defeat. He seemed reluctant to continue, as though the next part of the story weighed heavily on him. When defeat seemed imminent, he finally said, the elves came. The room fell silent. Every students attention was fixed on the teacher. Never in my world had students listened so intently during a history lesson. Then again, our history was far less dramatic than this. The elves came to Kinowa from Muntak. Their King he was truly a devil on earth, he explained. Muntak wasnt exclusively an elf nationhumans and noxivera lived there as well, along with other races. But their king didnt see it that way. Mr. Poley paused, taking a deep breath. He imposed harsh taxes on non-elves and introduced brutal punishments. If an elf was caught stealing, theyd serve a day in jail. If a human, dwarf or noxivera basically any other race committed the same crime, they were beaten to death. Then what happened? a student asked, breaking the heavy silence. The elves who disagreed with their kings cruelty fled to Kinowa. But many were caught and slaughtered for treason. With half their population gone, Muntak entered a period of decline. Mr. Poley began pacing, his eyes scanning the room until they landed on me. He pointed in my direction. Great. Axel, would you read the paragraph starting with When the King on page 44? Yes, sir. I leaned forward and read aloud. When the king slaughtered his people, he was dethroned by his uncle, who was both smarter and more ruthless. Seeing Nutars struggles against Bhars relentless assaults, the elves offered their aid. Their intervention forced Bhar to retreat, returning him to his failing kingdom. But we failed to recognize the true enemy standing right before us. The elves, Mr. Poley said. They inflated our ranks with spies, forced unfavorable trade agreements, and outlawed our gods. Anyone who resistedman, woman, or childwas tortured and executed. Bhar was a saint next to him. And then the king was assassinated, a student added. By his brother, Mr. Poley confirmed. Alberto Hyu, our Queens great-great-great-grandfather. Through his tactical brilliance and the aid of the Lost 100, he saved this nation. He didnt bow down to elves like King Loa did. Mr. Poley clapped his hands, breaking the tension. He glanced out the window next to me before addressing the class. Well pick up from here tomorrow. For now, head to the back garden. Next lesson is sword trainingdont be late. Chapter 115: Behind you I watched as Mr. Poley left the classroom, then leaned back in my chair. Miop closed the cover of her book, stood up, gave me a quiet nod, and returned to her desk at the back. Sword and shield training? I wished I could skip it like I used to skip P.E. classes back in my old life. Hopefully, I wouldnt end up injuring myself, considering I had no clue how to handle a weapon like that. Jane passed by without even glancing in my direction, leaving the classroom. She was still giving me the cold shoulder, but it didnt bother me much. It wasnt like we were close enough for it to matter. If anything, I hoped shed eventually forget about mea mere face in the crowd. Excited about training? a student asked her friend nearby. Im a little rusty, the friend replied. Same, but Im more terrified than excited. What if the elves attack again? Maybe we should skip it Elves tried to kill the Queen, the first student said. Were safe now. Dont worry. But... what if they go after Axel? she whispered. Hes the reason they failed to assassinate her. What if they want revenge? Thatd... suck. Maybe we should just skip it? Nah, dont be a wuss. Nothing will happen. Hmm, I muttered as I left the classroom before them. Revenge, huh? She wasnt wrong. The idea of elves coming after me for revenge wasnt exactly comforting. As if that lunatic Suzan wasnt enough, now I had an entire race potentially out for blood because Id been in the wrong place at the wrong time. What a mess Id stumbled into. For a brief moment, I considered skipping the lesson entirely. But since Id unintentionally become the center of attention lately, skipping would only draw more eyes. Plus, attendance was enforced by lawif anyone caught me ditching, theyd drag me back anyway. My only option was to stick it out and hope Id still have my head attached to my neck by the end of the day. I pushed open the doors to the back garden, letting the fresh air wash over me. Finding a bench near the wall, I sank onto it, crossed my arms, and leaned back against the damp stone. My eyes wandered to the large training area in the distance, where the gaping hole from before had been repaired. Man, I muttered, my gaze drifting to the rooftop, half-expecting to see an elf perched with a drawn bow. Maybe Im just paranoid. You arent. I flinched and turned to see Liam standing a few steps away, his gaze also fixed on the rooftop. He was so close I wondered how I hadnt noticed him. His uniform was sharp and spotless, and as he turned to look at me, he adjusted his glasses before letting his arms drop to his sides. You scared me, I said. Wasnt my intention. Sorry. No problem, I replied flatly. Do you have sword training too? No, thats the lesson after this, he said. I heard you found a team. Congrats. Thanks, I said. I assume you have a team as well? Unauthorized duplication: this tale has been taken without consent. Report sightings. I do. Liam studied me for a moment before continuing. How about we train after school? Five versus five. Youd destroy us without breaking a sweat, I said, keeping my tone neutral. No, thanks. Too bad I asked Aiden before you, then, Liam said with a serious tone, He agreed. I just thought Id ask you anyway. Why? I wanted to see how youd respond. You didnt surprise me, he replied, his tone calm. Anyway, I should go. See you after school, Axel. Hmm. I watched as Liam walked back through the doors and into the main building. Letting out a long breath, I turned my gaze back to the rooftop. This was either going to be an interesting match or an embarrassing loss for my team. Leo, Aiden, and Seker were all C-Class, while I was a measly F. We didnt stand a chance. I didnt even need to see Liams team in action to know theyd wipe the floor with us in minutes. I still couldnt understand why Aiden had agreed to the match, knowing how much stronger Liams team was. What a disaster. Is that Axel? a girl whispered to her friend from afar, her voice filled with curiosity. He looks normal. Yes, it is, her friend replied, her tone carrying a hint of judgment. Look at his hair. So messy. The first girl hesitated for a moment before straightening her shoulders. Hey I think Im going to talk to him. Really? The friends eyes widened in surprise. Yeah. Wish me luck. Hope he agrees. Biting my lip, I quickly stood up and made my way toward the doors, hoping to avoid the conversation altogether. Unfortunately, she moved faster than I anticipated, reaching me just as my hand hovered over the door handle. I glanced at her, my half-lidded, tired and lifeless eyes meeting hers briefly. She looked determined. Nodding slightly in acknowledgment, I turned back to the door and pushed it open. Sorry, were you going inside? she asked, her voice soft but persistent. Yeah, I was, I replied flatly. But you just came outside? Yeah. Forgot to grab my books from the library, I muttered. Her face brightened as she quickly seized the opportunity. Well, before that, could you cast that fireball again? Just for a second? I wont take up your time, I promise. I just want to see it up closehow you managed to pour so much mana into the spell like that. I shook my head, already stepping through the doorway. Id rather not. It was just luck. But Before she could finish, I shut the door behind me, cutting off her protest. Stuffing my hands into my pockets, I walked briskly down the hallway, passing by the grand tree where students lounged, chatting and sipping drinks. Though my name was starting to fade from the schools gossip, there were still a handful of students intrigued by how I had managed to channel so much mana into that spell. Truthfully, I was as clueless as they were. I didnt have mananone at all. Not even a trace. It was as much a mystery to me as it was to them. Deciding I might as well grab my books now instead of later, I headed toward the stairs. Climbing to the second floor, I wandered toward the library, passing a few students along the way. When I stepped inside, the musty scent of parchment and ink filled the air. A woman sat at a desk near the entrance, engrossed in a thick tome. Just as I drew a breath to speak, she lifted a hand, index finger raised to silence me. Behind you, she murmured without looking up. Behi I turned and froze. A stack of books floated behind me, bobbing gently in mid-air. My gaze flicked between the levitating books and the woman, trying to figure out what was happening. She remained focused on her reading, as though this was the most mundane occurrence. Hesitantly, I reached out and grabbed the books one by one, stacking them carefully in my arms. Uh thanks. Mm. She barely acknowledged me. Carrying the stack, I made my way through the quiet library, the soft creak of my footsteps echoing off the shelves. I stopped near the railing overlooking the first floor and peered down. Below, I saw Mr. Poley stepping into the back garden, gathering the students for the next lesson with a woman who was probably another teacher. Guess its time for class I muttered under my breath, adjusting the books in my arms and heading back the way I came. Chapter 116: Accelerated basics I descended the stairs and made my way toward the back garden doors. Pushing them open, I stepped outside into the crisp air. Mr. Poley sat on a nearby bench, his gaze fixed on the students forming lines in the training grounds. A woman stood at the front of the group. She was around 170 centimeters tall, her strong build evident in her stance. Her short brown hair framed a chiseled jawline, and a small scar shaped like an ''S'' marked the area near her nose. Sliding into the line with the other boys, I glanced at the formation. The girls stood in a neat vertical line to our right, while we were arranged horizontally. A tense silence hung in the air. No one dared to speak, their nervous glances toward the woman betraying a quiet fear. Is that all? the teacher asked, her sharp gaze scanning the group. Yes, maam, a girl replied promptly, her voice steady. Good, Ms. Casto said, nodding. Since we have a new face among us, well start with the basics. Accelerated basics, of course. Axel, step forward. Yes, maam. It was already a bad sign that shed learned my name. Back in my world, if someone showed my picture to one of my teachers and asked who I was, theyd probably shrug and say theyd never seen me before. That anonymity had always been a blessing. But here, things were different. Here, I needed to make them forget about me deliberately. There was only one way to do itlower their expectations. Do you have any experience with weapons, Axel Millo? Ms. Casto asked, pacing like a lioness surveying her prey. None, maam, I admitted without hesitation. Im an amateur. Daggers, then? She stopped and crossed her arms, tilting her head. No, maam. Anything sharp, I try to avoid entirely. Laughter rippled through the students, soft but cutting. Dont worry, she said with a tight smile. Well make a pro out of you yet. She turned to address the group. As youve heard, students, were back to basics. A groan escaped from somewhere in the boys line. Aw, come on! This sucks! We just had tournament train The student didnt get to finish. Ms. Casto seized him by the collar and, with surprising ease, hauled him forward before tossing him to the ground. Big mouth, huh? she hissed, clapping her hands together. A sword materialized between her palms, shimmering briefly before falling to the ground at his feet. Pick it up. The boy scrambled back, raising his hands defensively. II didnt mean to, maam! Im sorry! Pick up the fucki she began, her voice rising, but she stopped mid-word as Mr. Poleys voice cut in from the bench. If you come across this story on Amazon, be aware that it has been stolen from Royal Road. Please report it. Ms. Casto, he said firmly, his tone calm but commanding. Lets keep things civil, please. Ms. Casto drew in a sharp breath, holding it for a moment before exhaling through her nose. The sword disintegrated into dust, carried off by the breeze. The student remained frozen, avoiding her gaze and biting his lip nervously. Back in line, she ordered curtly. And dont speak again without permission. Yes, maam, he squeaked, practically stumbling as he retreated. Ms. Casto turned back to the group, her expression hard. Everyone, pair up. Ill distribute blue and red bandanas. The red will attack; the blue will defend. No spells allowed, or shieldsonly physical tactics. Understood? Yes, maam, the students chorused, their voices steady but subdued. Axel, she said, her eyes locking on mine. Youre with me. Dont worry, Ill go easy on you. T-thank you, maam. Walking to one of the empty benches, Ms. Casto pulled a backpack from beneath it. She rummaged through the bag, retrieving a handful of red and blue bandanas, then began distributing them among the students. When she reached me, she paused, her gaze lingering for a moment before moving on, leaving me empty-handed. Once all the students had been paired, the groups formed naturally, a murmur of excitement rippling through the training ground. With synchronized claps, the students conjured wooden swords, each one materializing in their hands like a polished branch plucked from a dream. Hmm. I muttered. I wonder what kind of a spell is that. Ms. Casto swept her eyes over the groups, ensuring there was enough distance between them before gesturing for the exercises to begin. The sharp cracks of wood meeting wood filled the air as the red-banded attackers lunged and swung, their blows met by the blue-banded defenders parries. Seated on a nearby bench, Mr. Poley scribbled in his notebook, glancing up periodically to observe the students progress. Now, Axel, Ms. Casto called, her voice cutting through the rhythmic chaos of training. Youre up. Attack me. Conjure a weapon of your choice. Not a bow, of course. Sword or dagger. Not shields. I hesitated, shifting my weight awkwardly from one foot to the other. I dont know the spell to conjure a sword yet, I admitted, scratching the back of my neck. Where Im from, spellcasting was strictly forbidden. Im still learning. Without missing a beat, she clapped her hands, and a sword materialized before her. Catching it with ease, she tossed it toward me. I flinched, stepping back as the weapon clattered to the ground at my feet. Only then did I stoop to pick it up, my fingers brushing against the cold steel. It was no wooden imitationthis was real. The polished blade reflected my face, its dull sheen betraying every detail, including the faint, bullet-like scar partially hidden by my hair. This is real steel, I muttered, my grip tightening on the hilt. Are you sure about this, maam? You need to feel the weight of a proper sword before we move to the wooden ones, she replied, crossing her arms. Shouldnt it be the other way around? I ventured, glancing nervously at the blade. Not in my class, she snapped, her tone as sharp as the weapon in my hand. The old sword-and-shield instructor coddled you all. Im here to fix that. Right, I muttered, adjusting my grip awkwardly. Then Ill attack? Yes. Her eyes narrowed. Begin. Like just run up and swing? No, she said, rolling her eyes. Run up and stick the sword into your own ass. How did you even manage to save the Queen with a head like that? I keep telling peopleit was luck, I replied, sighing. Nothing more. Pure luck. Enough talking! she barked, her voice echoing across the training ground. Attack me already! The sharpness in her tone sent a jolt through me. Tightening my grip, I stepped forward, the blade trembling slightly in my unsteady hands. Okay, Ax, I whispered to myself. Come on. You can do this.