《Red Reign》


 Rynderg

    I stood at the edge of my balcony, admiring the town of Chaslern. It was a quaint little settlement, with low rise brick dwellings, topped with slant roofs and narrow chimneys. The air crusty with vibrant warmth and sunkissed happiness. It was untouched with malice, instead filtered with compassion.


    I watched the cathedral at the center, which was sending ripples of bell chimes, indicating mid day. A daily custom there to admin rule and time over the subjects.


    The cathedral also happened to hold absolute power over the mayor of the town, a given for being more authoritative for its materialistic defenses against the night crawlers.


    I frowned, chugging down a glass of fine wine.


    The night crawlers had been a problem since centuries back, not abiding by the rules and customs, always robbing and killing people. It was tough, living together with them.


    The society was divided, with night crawlers and the day crawlers.


    The day being ruled by men and the night by them, the creatures of the other world. Vampires, werewolves, fairies, witches, warlocks, etc, etc, always made themselves known to others.


    The two communities did not partake in fights as of late, but there was still a thick tension among the people, even after all these years.


    The government did its all to protect its people, the day council protecting men and the night council protecting those creatures. It was a difficult task, to keep two worlds separated and nobody could blame them. Humans did not like the night crawlers and the night crawlers did not like the humans.


    Just a year back a pact had been signed for ''The bill'' to pass, which clearly stated the words ''growing together'', so it was only a matter of time before every organisation whether supporting day or night crawler would unite together into one. The separation was not healthy anymore, so the people would have to compromise.


    Men and creatures would work together, which had only been something told in fairy tales to young children, to make them less phobic towards the upcoming generation. Because people were sick of fights, wars and battles. It was now a time of independence, a new age.


    And where was I?


    Stuck with a potential mafia life.


    I grumbled to myself, checking the time. It was almost 1 pm, I had to attend the lunch meet with father. A huge burden currently.


    I never wanted to be a part of his life, never wanted enemies to haunt my every step and definitely never wanted the responsibility he was forcing upon me. But sadly my brother ran away with some woman, afraid that he would have to face father''s wrath, which wasn''t a delicacy anyone wanted to taste, not when it involved guns.


    Who knows, my father might kill someone by mistake, it was that stupid.


    "Ruya, your father is here," I heard Sian say, his presence by the balcony door, not intruding but recognizable.


    "I will be there shortly, please tell him to wait. He can at least do that."


    Sian was hesitant, his shuffling feet indicative enough, but I did not look back to be guilt tripped into going, I was stubborn to a great degree.


    When I was sure I was left alone, I breathed a sigh of relief. Sian was the only member I trusted with my life, the rest were too mafia like, their minds corrupted to the core.


    But again, I still couldn''t be safe around Sian, he wasn''t corrupt but self righteous to a fault. He believed that the government was wrong for us men, and the only way one could practice healthy life was to do what one wanted, meaning he loved his freedom.


    And being my father''s personal favorite, he was biased towards the mafia life, he loved the cruelty and the bloodshed. It was something I had always been weary of, but Sian was somehow dependable despite his bend morals.


    He kept his promises and was good with keeping secrets even if his outgoing personality stated otherwise.


    I took a long look at the buzzing town life before leaving. Something told me it was going to be a long meeting.


    --


    Lunch with a parent should be happy and relaxing, but with a gang leader of a parent, it always ended up in chaos.


    I bit back a retort when father joked about my stiff stature, it was funny to him.


    Well if it wasn''t for his gun on the table or for his big burly bodyguards, I would have been slightly more relaxed.


    Sian was there, but he was loyal to my father, a shame.


    "How is your school going, I heard you ranked number one in your batch."


    He was making small talk and I resisted the urge to roll my eyes, somebody from his circle must have suggested him the idea or maybe someone complemented me to get into his good graces. Whatever the case, I was finding it hilarious.


    "I am doing good, it will be my last year."


    He took a bite from his raspy cherries, the juice dripping down the end of his lips. It was disgusting.


    "You will be turning 18 soon, what are your plans for the future?" he asked me politely, as if he cared about my preferences. For him it was all about power and business, he never had cared for his family, his money going to other underground causes, funding shady business in the black market.


    Because of his lack of passion, mother died an unhealthy death, riddled with various viruses because of a witch''s curse. And since then I hated both the witches and my father, who was worse, not even visiting mother because he feared he would catch her ''dirty diseases''.


    I clenched my fist tightly, not answering the man who sat in front of me. His handsome figure not at all appeasing.


    "I asked you a question lad." His voice dulled at the edges, warning me to continue.


    When I kept eating my pancake, he got pissed, growling at Sian, "The hell have you been teaching him? He has become more childish, like an ignorant fool."


    I slammed my fist on the table, silencing the man with a glare, "Stop shouting at him, he did nothing wrong, you are the one at fault."


    A silence fell over the table, it was astounding how silence could be that heavy.


    My father glared back, "Learn to cooperate son or you will see yourself in some ditch."


    That was how he talked to me, degrading me all the time. Barely even flinching the way his words dripped with venom and disgust, as if I was the one who wronged him.


    "No wonder brother left you, you are a di*k."


    In an instant he pulled his gun at me, not even blinking twice, it was a clear warning, one that would result in bloodshed.


    I could feel Sian restless behind me, definitely conflicted on his views. I pitied him, he never liked being put into the spot, it actually pained him physically, before he turned off his emotions and went berserk. Like really, Sian was one strange character.


    "You won''t kill me." I was sure of it. If living with my father had taught me something, it was the politics. And I knew he needed an heir for his throne, it was a necessity, because without the heir, a mafia was vulnerable, and so was his gang.


    "You don''t test me Ruya, I would really pull the trigger if you keep insulting me."


    He was sincere, and it was sad.


    I sighed, "Put it down already, I will do as you say."


    He smiled slightly after hearing it, his hands faltering, "Alright but know this, the next time you cross me, you won''t live again to see the world, and I would be left with no choice but to go after your brother."


    I nodded stiffly, my consideration for my brother was the only thing keeping me here, because if I died, my father would definitely kill my brother''s family and bring him back here forcefully.


    Yes my brother had kids, Sian had told me once last year, he had two daughters, one was a year old while the other was already four.


    And I didn''t have a heart to destroy them, it just wasn''t in my conscience.


    "Well?" I asked bitterly.


    He smirked, enjoying my frustration. "You will be leaving for this academy once you are done with your school. It is called Rynderg. It tolerates both the day and the nights crawlers."


    "And why would I attend it?"


    "The courses they teach are beneficial for your growth. And being close to those creatures will give you an insight to how they live and what is there weakness. We as a mafia barely get such a big chance. But I saw your result, you are eligible."


    Wow, the man was low, it was cruel how I had to see him every week, hear his bullsh*t for all it was worth.


    "And where is this Rynard uni?"


    "Rynderg," he pressed, his food long since forgotten, "We will help you get in, the accommodations are costly even for me, but it is our golden opportunity to unfold their clan secrets. Even with my connections I barely know much about their workings, we know how to kill them, but learning of their clan will help in the long run."This story originates from Royal Road. Ensure the author gets the support they deserve by reading it there.


    "You still didn''t say where it is."


    He smiled, making me shiver with anxiousness.


    "It is in Silverstay, the city of Silver."


    I felt Sian stiffen behind me.


    Shit. That was just insane, humans never went there, because it was infested with night crawlers, their people.


    "Afraid?" he asked with amusement.


    "You are kidding."


    He grinned, "No I am not, but don''t worry, the dorms for the students are safe, you wouldn''t be the only human there, but you don''t need to wonder around that sordid place, they have arrangements. And with that bill passed just last year, the academy is welcoming aspiring day crawlers even if it was initially adjusted just for night crawlers."


    "What if I say no." I spoke after some thought.


    "There isn''t any option for you. Be ready, the moment your school ends, you leave."


    I sighed, there was no chance for me to escape now, I already felt trapped. "What courses would I be opting for?"


    The man shrugged, "Your choice, I will let you have at least that much joy, before I plunge you deep into our mafia world." He then cackled, as if he found himself funny.


    Again, I felt nothing but revulsion towards him. "Then shall I leave now?"


    The feast wasn''t over yet, but I had no stomach to digest anything, my gut was feeling sick with anxiety over the inevitable.


    "Settle down, we have more to discuss."


    "About what," I tried not to snap at him.


    "The weapons you will be keeping with you, and your hand to hand combat training with Sian. I do not want you to die there, you have to survive and come back in one piece."


    I grimaced, I always loathed combat training with Sian, not that he went rough on me, but I just didn''t like to physically strain myself. Although knowing all the tricks went in my favour.


    "Sian will teach you whatever he can, but I want results before you leave."


    "Fine."


    "And Sian will be going with you, so you two better learn to accommodate, I am not spending extra. Tight budget is something you will have to become familiar with."


    "Really, how expensive is this Academy?"


    Father frowned, "I am paying 40,000 Riches for you, don''t disappoint me."


    I did a double take, 1000 Riches itself was an amount no daily passerby ever saw in life, it took years to collect that amount in this tough world. And father was paying 40,000 Riches? Where was the money even coming from, I hesitated to ask, afraid to learn of something I didn''t want to.


    "Now, let''s talk about your daily routine."


    --


    The talk with father had went downhill for sure, our points not matching and nor our views on the system and methods. By the end of the afternoon, all we did was argue and threaten.


    I took in a deep breath, feeling out of sorts already.


    Sian was sitting next to me as he read some newspaper, his phone blinking with messages he kept ignoring.


    I watched the small fan rotating above us, creaking with each rotation. The weather was warmer today, but slightly uncomfortable. "You are two years older than me right, Sian?"


    "Yes, so you better call me brother." He mumbled, engrossed in his daily dose of articles. I never knew what interested him so. All his articles ever talked about was murder and theft. Well maybe I knew what was so interesting.


    I shivered absently. Suddenly feeling cold.


    "When are we going to start my training?"


    "Tonight, it is best to get adjusted with the dark."


    I sighed, "Will you leave your newspaper for a while? I am trying to talk to you here."


    Sian barely shifted, still squinting at the words with all his attention.


    "What is even written in there." I asked finally frustrated.


    "About your academy. Rynderg."


    That made me pause, as I leaned in to see for myself. There was a picture of the campus and I had to calm my nerves down before taking a gulp. It was as I had predicted, threatening and dangerous. All dark and obtuse.


    Something straight out of a Goth Poster for Halloween.


    "It is just a poster Ruya, I am sure the real thing isn''t like this." Sian comforted me, "Academies like these actually don''t want unwanted visitors, so they attempt to make the advertisement look threatening. It is their way of saying, ''come on your own accord, we won''t take responsibility if you died here.'' It is actually kind of a warning but also an invitation for the strong."


    I didn''t want to panic, but my situation looked worse minute by minute. "I have never hated my father this much before, if it wasn''t for him, I would be living happily with some girlfriend or something."


    It was true that I had many female admirers in school, they liked my confidence and of course, the money. They didn''t know that I was a Mafia''s son, but they rarely cared. Being handsome also went in my favor, no harm there.


    Sian snorted, "Like that girl Serena, I never liked her."


    "Of course you didn''t" I snapped, "she rejected your proposal twice."


    Sian pouted, "But I was just joking, I didn''t really want her to suck my di*k, it was just a proposal for furthering our relationship."


    "That is the problem with you, whenever you take a liking to someone, you ask whether she wants your di*k, I mean don''t you know that it is kind of offensive to normal people. If you want anyone to entertain you like that, just go to a bar or something. Make use of that face of yours."


    Sian rolled his eyes, "Don''t lecture me, I know I come out as a cheap lecher but I am a part of the country renowned mafia gang, I do stuff worse than just murder. So I want to be frank with my behave, as frank as I can be."


    "And I see where it takes you."


    "Stop mocking me."


    "Fine, fine, but I am anxious, and I think it would be best if we go shopping. I need clothes which I can wear for the Academy. Did father say whether they have uniforms or allow casuals?"


    "He did leave a pamphlet for us to take a look at," Sian got up to get to the drawer section, pulling out a boxed compartment to search. "I kept the stuff here somewhere, let me see."


    "Found it?" I asked a while later, getting tired of his grumbling and ruffling.


    "Yeah, but I can''t find the smaller one, which had introductions about the staff and all."


    "Just let me take a look at the one you did find."


    Sian was dubious but then with one plea of my eyes, he gave up, coming back to take his seat next to me. Making himself comfortable, he shuffled through the pages, opening the first page eagerly.


    I leaned in again to read it as Sian worded it aloud.


    ~~


    ["A greeting to everyone who showed interest in our Academy, Rynderg. Based on the upper land of Silverstay, we are part of the grandeur of ancient relics of Septims. Being organised by the Government''s Night Council itself, we poses the strongest academic records, from being the safest to the most loyal government based structure. We practice clean clear cut views and no outsider has access to our archives.


    With the bill being passed for the harmony of the two community, we are taking steps to invite day crawlers into our realm of magic, where they would be guided by the best our academy could offer. Also, we follow the same rules as our sub branch academy Riverin, which happens to be very famous among both the day and the night crawlers.


    We are patient but strict, outgoing but reserved. We take in only the finest, and if you are reading this pamphlet, then you are already one of ours, for we don''t reveal our secrets to just anyone."]


    ~~


    I glared at the letters, "When did father approach them, I am sure he submitted my school records already. That is why I am being invited."


    "True," Sian spoke, "but this other sub branch of their''s, I know about Riverin, it was the first academy to ever let both the community co-exist. It''s certificate was as valuable as one''s life, it is still revered to


    "But?" I knew there was something else, something he wasn''t telling me.


    He gave in, "Well if the rumors are correct, then they practiced the wings concept."


    My eyes widened, I had heard of that term before. It was where the night crawlers would take in humans under their wing, guard them and protect them, but also take something in return. Most of the times it was blood for vampires, sex for werewolves, valuables for witches, etc. It was shameful and a very dangerous bargain.


    "Are you sure Sian?"


    "Not really, but if human students take up some creature as their leader, then they are safer, so I think it can be."


    "I am already affiliated with the mafia because of my father, I don''t want another trouble like that. I won''t ever do the mistake of going under someone''s wing. I am my own person, I won''t be a slave to anyone."


    "That is what I am afraid of," Sian insisted, "if that system applies there, then you will have to chose someone''s side. Most people chose werewolf or vampire. They are the strongest in their community."


    "But the payment is high, I don''t want a bloodsucker to ruin my life or a sex hungry fanatic to disgrace my body."


    "IF they practice wings concept, which is just a theory," Sian shrugged, "then I am sure you will be under great danger, because an unmarked human can possibly unsettle them."


    I snorted, "Unsettle my ass, I am not becoming a part of their cult, it is a modern death sentence. Imprisonment!"


    "Then what will you do?" Sian looked bothered.


    "I will make my own stupid rules, make my own group of people, I am the son of a mafia, it does amounts to something."


    Sian shook his head, "Mafias maybe powerful, but only when in their own habitat. Out there you would be vulnerable."


    "Then train me to the best of your ability."


    "Alright, you win. But don''t worry, I will be there to guard you, if something does go wrong."


    "I was expecting that." I grinned.


    "Let''s read what''s next." He said indicating the pamphlet, which was still there with us.


    We turned the page and I analysed the face of the man who owned Rynderg. He looked stout and healthy, a straight sign of his respected status, also, he looked like a very serious... Man?


    "Is he a night crawler or a day one."


    Sian frowned, "I don''t know, but I believe he is a night crawler, though he looks very human. You never know, night crawlers have started to look like us these days."


    I nodded slowly, taking in the looks. "I can feel him from the picture itself, he seems very strict and..."


    "Intimidating?" Sian supplied, to which I nodded.


    ~~


    ["Bangshi (Founder Chairman)


    "I congratulate all those who are interested in joining our Academy, it is an honor to serve the younger generation and introduce them with newer opportunities and teachings. I believe in equality and justice. So I also respect those who have strong morals and righteous beliefs."


    ~


    Stubbornly Strong and Sincere by Soul, we create our own Persona."]


    ~~


    I groaned, "Why am I feeling like this man is going to be a big problem for me? Look at his ignorant arrogant talk."


    "He is the Founder," Sian pressed with a sarcastic tone, "of course he would spout nonsense. You cannot expect him to say, ''Hello my dear students, you don''t know but I am eating your money and throwing you into a death pit called Rynderg.'' He has his cut decided for him."


    I threw up my hands in exasperation, "Well, if it is already decided I am going to suffer, why not hurry through this thing, I cannot sit here any longer, it will eat me up."


    Sian went along with me, turning the page.


    ~~


    ["Before you join the classes, please ensure to come along three days prior, for the selection of course and combat choice. Your dormitory will be decided on spot.


    Here are the following courses you can opt for:


    Day Scholars :


    Arts


    Sciences


    Technical


    Field


    Combat


    Humanities


    Commerce


    Medical


    Night Scholars :


    Science


    Community


    Econ


    Combat


    Medical


    Further details would be provided after the choice has been made. The courses can be changed in future depending on your performances and skills."]


    ~~


    So there weren''t many options. "What''s up with this shortage of courses."


    Sian hummed, "They have given a broader scope, I am sure we will be able to figure things out later. But just curious, what are you going to opt for?"


    "Arts, I am good at that. If the subject is related to painting and stuff, I don''t know what Arts they are talking about though."


    "There is just one other page left," Sian told me, flipping the page again.


    ~~


    ["A few rules are necessary to follow :


    Though we do not adhere to strict uniform code, we also do not condone nudity and/or any form of exposure.


    Illicit drug usage and open sexual act may lead to severe punishment or in worst case scenario, the student may get expelled permanently.


    Criminal offenses are strictly prohibited and action would be taken against them according to the law.


    Any form of bullying is against the conduct of Academy and will lead to punishment.


    Weapon inside campus is allowed for self defense and combat training, but using them for scuffled and fights is prohibited."]


    ~~


    "That''s it?" I asked baffled.


    "What else do you want, I do not see why it would be shocking. Almost all the academies have similar rules and regulations." Sian did not find anything odd in it, but I did.


    "We are going to be a part of their community Sian, I thought there would be some other rules, like don''t anger werewolves, or don''t throw garlic at Vampires, all I see here is human equivalent rules."


    Sian rolled his eyes, "Don''t be stupid, they won''t jot down those life hacks for you, you have to be clever about it when you actually start your academy. Not everything comes in ink."


    I still wasn''t satisfied but it did seem safer now then earlier, it didn''t seem like the campus was for rogues anymore. "Then what shall we do now?"


    "We wait and I train you. Good that you took self defense that year."


    I snorted, "Yeah, but I have already forgotten most of it, I have been busy with school these days."


    "The school or the girls."


    "The school," I snapped.


    "Well, take advantage of your free time then, you won''t be getting any in the future."


    I sighed but agreed.


    "And you know," Sian added, "I have heard that night crawlers don''t mind same sex relationships, so you-"


    "Shut up," I scowled, "I am not interested in guys." It was repulsive.


    He shrugged, "I know, but there is that option. I was just stating the fact."


    "Right."

 Hunter

    "Ruya, are you all packed?" Sian asked, peeking in through the door, taking in my luggage bags and the messy place with a frown.


    I nodded, folding a few shirts quickly and stuffing them in a smaller duffel bag. "When are we leaving?"


    "In the afternoon, we have time."


    "Are you done with yours?"


    "All done," he told me smugly, "I will be waiting in my room, come there when you are done, we have to discuss which weapons we are taking with us."


    "Are there any set guidelines as to what kind of weapon we could take?" I was sure there must be, every organisation only allowed till a certain extent.


    "There are none as far as I know, even Boss said the same when we discussed, you were there."


    I pressed my lips, before sighing, "Of course I was there, but father doesn''t really cares about rules, he must have not checked properly, his lackeys are not sharp."


    Sian huffed, "You are worrying too much, if what we take doesn''t sits well with them, we would just send the stuff back."


    "...okay."


    Sian took a last glance at my things and snorted, "You better not take that cologne of yours, the werewolf populace hates that stuff."


    I grinned, stuffing in another cologne bottle, "Let them suffer."


    Sian shook his head with amusement before leaving.


    I looked at the clock and saw the time, it read 9:23AM, a favorable hour for peace. So breathing in I took a relieving sigh. I maybe going to fulfill my father''s purposes, but it was my life and I would be the one affected by it. It was making me nervous. I didn''t doubt my ability as a human, having trained with Sian for years, learning about guns. I was still an amateur, reason why Sian had to give me extra lessons this month, but I was better than average.


    The faint light coming from the window soothed my senses, the soft noise of the hustle and bustle of the town settling me with comfort.


    In the haze of anxiousness, I hadn''t really focused on my last few days of school, the people around me worried for me, but they knew not to disturb me. And I was starting to regret it, I should have enjoyed more, who knows what would happen tomorrow.


    "Should have taken up on that offer of dinner date," I mumbled to myself, remembering Sarda as she had invited me shyly, her eyes fluttering and the smile pleased. I generally didn''t take up anyone''s offer for if the enemies of my father learned of it, they would have an advantage over me. So relationships were a big No No.


    Plus, Sian was always there with me, a mafia''s son needed a bodyguard so he acted as one, lingering in the hallways. I had once been attacked by some crazy assh*le and he was the one who protected me from that deranged person.


    I had learned later that the man was the one whose family my father had murdered in cold blood, something about loan not being paid. The man had turned mental with hurt and sadness, it was very devastating to even think about.


    I was 12 at that time and the curiosity got the best of me, so I had searched about him, begged to be informed about from father''s right hand man. And when I learned that the man was actually just a simple professor, I felt even more for him.


    He had three sons and one daughter, a pretty wife. All of them dead.


    After that I hadn''t been attacked anymore, Sian was young but he was seriously very skilled. I remembered he was assigned to me that same year, while before him some female woman guarded me, her waist always decorated with a knife.


    Generally the school authority didn''t allow such disturbances, but my father was persuasive, so...


    And the town was under his protection. The cathedral and the mayor did hold power, but more than that they always relied on my father''s men. Of course the crimes had to be minimum, but my father was allowed to come and go as he pleased, allowed to kill if he made it look like an accident.


    The general public had no idea that they were living on dangerous ice, one crack and the whole system would crumble.


    I always had to be extra careful with whom I made friends or talked to. One hurt word directed at me could lead to their entire family being gunned down, the mafia never left their enemies alive. Not if the enemy had other purposes to fulfill.


    After having packed up, I left for Sian''s room.


    His room was obviously smaller than mine, furnished in woods and dark oaks. The only furniture he owned was a wardrobe and a bed. I always wondered why he didn''t buy anything else, but I learned later that he was a minimalist and he avoided getting attached to sentimental objects.


    "What do we have?" I asked, entering in without hesitation.


    "Take a look yourself." He pointed towards the weapons lined up on his bed. "We can take as many as we want, I did not hear about any regulations."


    The weapons were full of variety, from small to big, to spiky to sharp, to being round at the edge. There were chains, spears, swords, daggers, and many others, yet they looked ordinary and I did not see any gun in them.


    "I see you have a big collected," since the entire bed was laid out with them, "but I need something permanent Sian, these are just temporary."


    He nodded, "Then we can take these two for you, you are good with swords and guns." He opened his wardrobe, asking me to take a look inside.


    Noticing the black metal sword, I was happy, I always loved to fantasize about blades and shields, they were really good to hold and advance with. The sword I noticed had a matte finished look and a set of four guns stood next in line to it, each complimenting the black sword blade, set to full dark mode.


    "The sword is made of Qenzin alloy, very hard to get by, they are a natural enemy of both the day and the night crawlers. You cannot use it bare hand, for it is poisonous even for you." Sian explained everything, throwing a pair of black leather gloves at me.


    "So I wear a glove before using it, classy." I was impressed by the looks of the black sword blade, it looked very expensive.


    "Then next we have 58-J13, four types of hand guns, for four different variety of species. Werewolf, Vampire, fairies and wrath."


    "But why are we taking a weapon for killing fairies?" I asked with confusion, as far as I had heard, fairies were saints compared to witches.


    Sian looked rather disappointed with me, "Seriously, you are the stupidest person I have ever met, like how did you even think of fairies being innocent? Fairies are the worst, The Worst." He said strongly, "They are even worse than werewolves and vampires."


    The information was alarming, "Really?"


    Sian nodded, "Really, they torture the worst, kill the worst, eat the worst. If you ever see them, turn around and run. Even the night crawlers are weary of them."


    I nodded hastily, "I will keep that in mind."


    Seeing that his point was made, he started to rummage around his weapon make shift holder. And picked up three of the smallest, most insignificant ones. A shuriken, a sharp hairpin and two crafty chopsticks.


    "Are you sure these will be of use to you?" I asked him cautiously, staring at the three metal crafts skeptically. "I mean a shuriken is a good choice, but..."


    Sian smirked, "You have a lot to learn then, if you think of these as useless. Have you seen me with my victims?"


    I frowned, "Once or twice, I have seen you with guns though."


    "That is because I was working as a mafia, but my weapon of choice is always these, I am good with pressure point and nervous arrangement of creatures. I can kill with one strike. I can paralyze you within a second. I was taught the art since young age."


    I had never heard of his family or any history background, all I knew was that he called himself Sian and loved to kill in his free time. I had never even bothered to ask him any personal question.


    "I didn''t know about it, about you."


    He grinned, "Of course not, I never told you about myself. But I am from the family of hunters and typically, the night crawlers hate my kind with a passion."


    "Wait a minute," my eyes widened, "You are a hunter?"


    "Not one, but from a family of one." He corrected absently, as if it wasn''t a big deal.


    I wondered how my father was able to snatch such a man for his guild, hunters were worshiped in many places, for their strength, knowledge and fighting styles. The present world didn''t seem to need them anymore for the war was over, but they were still recognized for their job description. If not hired for their hunting skills, they were hired for their muscles and brain.


    "Wow," I exclaimed, noticing the faint blush on his cheeks, he looked proud of his heritage.


    But wait.


    "Then wouldn''t it be very difficult for you to adjust in my Academy? The night crawlers would make it a living hell for you."


    Sian pressed his lips together in a thoughtful manner, still focused on other things. "I will have to hide my heritage from them, there is no way of telling who is a hunter on their appearance alone, but when we use spells and other... skills, it is obvious of who we are."


    "And your weapon choice?"


    He smiled, "That is no issue, even a non-hunter may know about my art of fighting. So we are safe there."


    "True."


    "Then let''s pack, I was informed that your father isn''t coming, he got stuck with some work. We will leave by ourselves."


    I nodded, already feeling better.


    --


    A few hours later...


    An old vintage car awaited our arrival as we readied ourselves for the journey. It would take a day to reach there and we were already feeling exhausted.


    "Father did send a very expensive ride," I observed, as two tall men grabbed my luggage, keeping it in the back.


    Sian stood alongside me, humming, keeping an eye out for whatever danger we might be in, it was his usual vigilance.


    The driver inside the car started the radio and got out to fling the door open for us, waiting.


    I nodded in acknowledgment, getting inside, and saw Sian managing in from the other side. The driver closed my door and went back to take his driver''s seat.


    "I have been told we are going north."


    Sian mumbled a yes, checking his wallet to see if he missed anything.


    While I watched the two lackeys of father, who had been assisting us, they simply stood by the side of the gravel path, sunglasses shading their eyes. They wore a stiff suit, with bow and cuff links. it was a sorted uniform discipline which every mafia man in my father''s domain practiced.


    "Silverstay is it?" The driver asked, distracting me, confirming the location and turning on the GPS.


    "Make a stop at Diner''s out in Hashtong, we need our fill before nightfall," Sian coordinated, as I simply sat there playing with my thumb. The sun was overhead and I could hear the bell chimes from the cathedral, indicating mid afternoon, around 3PM.


    The driver in the front didn''t take time in moving along, his job was to be completed by tomorrow morning at 5, if our calculation was correct. The journey would be tiresome.


    --


    At around 7PM in the evening, we stopped by at the Diner''s out, a small eatery for travelers.


    The remote area we were in did not even have any internet access, so we had actually navigated blind, based on intellect and a frank old map.


    The driver was older than both of us and more experienced, so he brought us at the eatery on time.


    I got out of the car, shivering slightly, the air was chilly around here. Maybe because there was nothing around far, only vast fields of native grass and mountains.


    "Let''s go, we don''t want to stay around late," Sian told me, wearing his blazer over his silk shirt. He looked like a mafia boss, no kidding there. Like in the movies.


    Even the faint evening light hitting his face, made him glow unnaturally. His dark eyes and hair, contrasting well with his pale face and intimidating bearing.Unauthorized usage: this tale is on Amazon without the author''s consent. Report any sightings.


    "What are you waiting for, move," he called out again, looking back at me with a raised eyebrow.


    "I-I am coming," I stumbled, frowning at my own dress code. I decided then and there that I wasn''t meant to be a mafia, I barely looked adult. My plain blue jeans and white sweatshirt was all I had time to wear. My collection of dresses very selective and plain.


    We moved in the eatery as the bell jingled, alerting the owner of our presence.


    It was cozy inside, warmer, as the buzz of the people assaulted my ears. There weren''t many around, but the number was enough to create a familiar atmosphere.


    Both me and Sian took the corner most table, avoiding eye contact with the locals, who were all curiously watching us like hawks.


    I ignored the dirty splotches of bear and wine on the floor, instead, I focused on the menu kept on the left, taking a seat without making much noise.


    "What will you eat?" I asked him, skimming through the list. Noticing the weird combinations straight away.


    I wasn''t used to such cheap dingy restaurants, but I could manage.


    "I will go and order, seems like they don''t cater to tables individually," Sian finalized, looking around, "Not even a busboy in sight."


    "Then I will take this, can''t pronounce the name." I showed him the menu card, pointing at the dish.


    Sian nodded, and got up to go for the main desk opposite the small bar. I noticed the people stare at him as if they had never seen a man before.


    I shook my head, holding up my pouch and taking out a small vial filled with purple liquid. It was my daily medication, which I prepared myself, I had to take it before dinner everyday, or I started having panic attacks out of nowhere, my heart beat would accelerate and I would start shaking, badly. So I never forgot to take the medicine. It helped keep me calm.


    My mother had told me long back that before my birth she had been attacked my a vampire and in defense, she fell on the stony pathway. It resulted into a severe damage on my head which even the doctors couldn''t fix. She told me I was a lucky child, but yes, the reality was that I was weak from mind and heart, I had breathing problems too.


    That is why I wanted to stay away from all the dirt and scum of the world, I didn''t know if I could hold it together if something big did happen.


    I sighed, opening the cork and taking a sip from the vial.


    Sian came back while I was still holding it, so I quickly kept it away. He looked stressed, I noticed.


    "What happened?"


    "The road ahead is blocked, a local told me," he said, picking up a jar of water from another table and filling his glass.


    "Then will we be delayed?"


    He shook his head, "Yes, and I think we will have to take another route. A more dangerous one."


    "From where?"


    "From the Orchid''s grave, not far from east sea. They say it is full of criminal night crawlers."


    I rolled my eyes, "Aren''t they all criminals?"


    Sian huffed, "Your lack of knowledge about them astounds me Ruya, no not all night crawlers are killers and beasts, that is why the bill was passed in the first place. But yes, we have to say they are all dangerous."


    "Than these criminals are defected ones right?"


    Sian nodded, "That they are, a bunch of misfits, they do not follow the law or even their own laws. If the road is really blocked ahead, then we will have to take another route. We don''t have many options."


    "You have been here before?"


    "Yes, but way back, and I only remember all the dark details."


    The food was served not long after as we ate with a set pace. And when we were finished, we stood up to leave, as usual, attracting attention again.


    Sian set the napkin down on the table and made his way out, well almost.


    The one who stopped us from leaving was a young man standing next to the door, a big smile on his face.


    "Hey there!" he greeted. As if we were on a game quest and he was the checkpoint.


    Sian smiled in return, "Hey."


    "Sorry for disturbing you but I would like to tag along with you two, I heard you are going from Orchid''s grave?"


    Sian nodded, still bright and smiley. It looked forced to me, but to strangers it always seemed genuine. "You heard?"


    He chuckled sheepishly, scratching his hair out of habit, "Yeah, will you help me drop off there, I have some business to take care of."


    "How can we even trust you," I spoke in, not really in the mood to discuss polite exchange in a place filled with eavesdroppers.


    "I am a hunter," the man explained calmly, "I won''t harm you or let anyone else harm you, rest assured we can make a deal. My strength to aid you as protection and your transportation to help me reach my spot."


    I would have retaliated him with facts about Sian''s hunter origin, but Sian shook his head at me to make me stay quiet. Oh right, he was hiding that little fact.


    "We will take you up on that offer, but if anything happens to us..." Sian warned with another friendly smile.


    The man nodded, all professional, "I give you my word. By the way, I am Wang, nice to meet you two. I wouldn''t have disturbed you, but I missed my bus and here I am stuck stranded. Even my phone isn''t working." He proved it by showing us the flashing screen of his phone.


    "We are facing the same problem," I told him.


    He smiled even more, "Then let''s go, I will guide you all through."


    We exited the small unit and made our way towards the car, our driver almost done with his burger and chips.


    Wang whistled, "Nice, you two look rich."


    "Wanting to rob us?" Sian asked jokingly, though there remained his guarded tone.


    "Of course not, I am just saying. I rarely meet people like you two. Not around here anyway."


    Soon after we all gathered inside the car, Sian sitting in front with the driver and I sitting at the back with Wang.


    The car started with a low hum, as the driver took it in reverse, rolling back on the road and speeding ahead when the coast seemed clear.


    "So..." Wang chirped, "May I know the names of you two, it''s only fair since I told you mine."


    Sian snorted from the front seat, "Who told you to tell us your name, you did it yourself."


    "That is true but..."


    "My name is Sian, and the one next to you is Ruya, two years my junior."


    "Oh, good good, so I assume you both are humans?" Wang asked politely, not trying to test us.


    "We are, why? You have a problem with the night ones?"


    Wang shook his head, "No, I was just curious, the night ones aren''t all bad, I just feel safer to know who is who."


    "Point there," I murmured, absently scrolling through my phone. There wasn''t much in there anyway, everything more or less worked better with good network which I didn''t have.


    "How much time will it take to reach there?" I heard Sian asking Wang.


    "About 2 hours give or take."


    "That isn''t too long."


    "No, but it depends on where you need to go. Orchid''s grave has five exits, each one going in different directions."


    "Were does each one go?" Sian was being vague, not wanting to trust a total stranger yet.


    Wang understood, "The first right passage leads to Bangerham, the second to Austin, the third to Misseldum, the fourth to Silverstay and the fifth to Bumnic."


    "Thanks," Sian appreciated.


    "No problem, but if you are taking the fourth one to Silverstay, than beware of the wilderness. It is said that the forest is full of wild creatures, wouldn''t want one of them killing you all."


    "Will keep in mind."


    --


    Wang parted ways with us when we reached the mid of Orchid''s grave. the mountains all around us, parting in the middle where I could see and hear the ocean waves.


    "If luck has it we will meet again, ba-bye," he greeted us with a flick of his fingers in a ''see you'' fashion, and went somewhere deep in the forest.


    Sian instructed our driver to keep moving as the road started to become steeper.


    --


    Obviously we took the fourth road to Silverstay and were instantly greeted by a dark deep forest on both sides of the road.


    "This looks dangerous," I mused, flicking my hair to distract myself from nerves. I could hear the howl of a wolf somewhere and strange noises echoing through the woods.


    "It is Silverstay''s outskirt, if we don''t see scary stuff here than where would we."


    "This isn''t an adventure Sian, this is dangerous."


    Sian frowned, "I know, but we should enjoy the thrill of the ride, being all fearful is helping no one."


    So I nodded and sat back in my seat, awaiting something weird. Well throughout the next few hours nothing weird happened and we just sped through with abated breath.


    It was the dawn after the intense night when we finally saw the forest parting, giving way to a new scenery.


    The road went down the altitude and we passed huge giant remnants of cliffs, caving in to form broken arches. It was echoing with the songs of the sea, really loud.


    The rocky steeps all standing upon a base of shallow blue sea water.


    "Wow," I whispered, looking as far as I could see. It was like a miracle of sorts, like a fantasy.


    "I have never been here before, how beautiful," Sian spoke just after hearing my shocked whisper. "I now know why they call it the arches of angel''s den."


    "Angel''s den?" As far as I knew angels lived in the sky, or on some higher plain.


    "Sadly, even I don''t know much about angels, they are said to be there, but I have never seen one, at least none in our generation have."


    "Aren''t there records of them?"


    Sian shook his head, still looking outside, "There are, but only clans older than mine posses the records. My family only possesses a weapon of their''s, nothing to go by."


    "That is still something, my family only does mafia business."


    Sian laughed, "Yeah, I know."


    A few minutes passed and the scenery changed again. To my dismay, I was too stunned to capture it in my phone, the image of the city fleeting since we lost it after moving inside a mountain underpass, a huge tunnel.


    "Shit, was that Silverstay?"


    It was our driver who confirmed it, "Yes Master Ruya, it was Silverstay."


    "Shit, shit, shit, we missed it!" I shouted in panic.


    "Calm down," Sian scolded, "we didn''t miss it, we are just taking the tunnel, so I am sure you will see it again."


    And just like Sian said, we did, and I gaped wide at it. Mesmerized.


    The whole city was floating on water, with stepped terrain that contoured the site. The partings and openings giving way to a water route, which was the main connecting node of all the highlights.


    The houses were silver in color, and even the streets radiated a similar vibe.


    "Damn, it is build upon water?" I asked, taking in the view and really capturing it in my phone this time. "And are those angels guarding it?" I pointed at the giant statues with angelic wings by the entrance portal.


    From the cliff, we got a great view of the city and the coast. "It looks rich," I commented, impressed.


    "The name Silverstay came into being when the city was laid with silver tiles to ward of Gerds, the small parasitic birds who suck blood."


    I was amused to learn it, the driver did know this place well, even though he needed our help getting here, since he asked directions quite a lot. "Have you been here before?"


    The driver shook his head negatively, "No, but my father was born here so I know about it from the pictures and his description."


    "Are you half night crawler?" Sian asked with genuine curiosity.


    "No, but my father''s mother was a half werewolf. I won''t say I don''t have the werewolf DNA in me, but it barely acts on full moons. It is very weak."


    "Oh, so tell me more about this place, can we visit it, is Rynderg somewhere here?" I directed the topic back towards the city, my curiosity showing.


    "Rynderg is a few kilometers ahead, so we cannot visit the city, but if one ever visits the city, they have to take a boat instead, for the city runs on waterways."


    "I see so many waterfalls, some small some big, how do they guide their ship above a waterfall, because there seem to be levels."


    "They don''t do that," the driver was enthusiastic for discussion, "one has to take another ship after climbing up the elevation through land. It is difficult for humans to live here, only physically strong could survive their old age in this city." He ended with a small laugh.


    "How far is the academy?" Sian interrupted, looking at his watch.


    "Just a few kilometers, we will reach soon."


    --


    And we did reach soon, though a strange mist seemed to have settled over the place. A huge lake sitting at the end of the road.


    "The road ends here since this is the end of our journey," the driver told us, checking the rear. "I assume all you have to do now is cross this lake by boat." He pointed at the several boats lining the edge of the water body.


    Sian looked grateful as he got out of the car and closed the car door, walking back to the end of the car to take out our luggage. The driver quickly shut down the engine and hurried after him, having seemed to have forgotten we had luggage with us.


    I exhaled the nervous air, we were finally here, but with the mist all around, I couldn''t see anything clearly.


    "Hurry Ruya, daydream later," I heard Sian yelling at me, tugging around the luggage with the help of our driver.


    So I finally got outside, my gut feeling queasy with the whole travel. Car rides had never suited me.


    "I shall leave then Master Ruya, Sian," the driver said with a slight nod of his head, and I was quick to dismiss him, he had a long way back.


    Me and Sian watched the black shiny car roll away back to the main road, leaving us stranded upon the bare moist edge of the lake.


    "Why is there so much mist around?" I asked with a tone, feeling frustrated with the lack of food and sleep. We had barely taken stops.


    "I see no helmsman as well, the boats are just here for use."


    "Are you saying we have to row it ourselves?" I asked distracted.


    "No need," a third voice made itself known to us. And we both turned towards the source of the voice, only to find an elf looking at us.


    The famed pointy ears and long hair, describing his typical presence.


    His eyes were a shade of bright bluish grey and he also wore matching robes, all worked upon with silk tresses. His dark hair falling softy upon his shoulders.


    It seemed like we were looking at someone from another world, there was a stark contrast between us.


    "Um, so you are the helmsman?" I asked hesitantly.


    "Yes."


    "Then you will lead us to Rynderg?"


    "Yes."


    "Help us move our luggage."


    "Yes." he then walked towards us with the intent of helping. And I mindlessly wondered if he talked more than a simple ''yes'' and ''no need''.


    With his help, Sian and I pulled the luggage bags on to his boat, settling ourselves in the quivering thing.


    I had never sat on a boat before so I was extra careful with how I moved.


    "The lake is dangerous for humans, do not fall in," the elf guided. Finally speaking more than a few words. He took the oars in his hand and started rowing the boat. "Resist the temptation, do not fall."


    "Okay." Both Sian and I answered back thankfully.


    Nothing happened as the elf kept rowing the boat forward, the mist parting to show more of the waters.


    But there was this sudden chill that broke through my skin as I watched the calm lake.


    A shadow flickering through the dullness of the waves.


    Were there fishes in it?


    I moved a little to look forward, only to flinch back when Sian kicked my legs. "Don''t do that, curiosity killed the rat, remember?"


    "Cat," I corrected him, gulping dryly, as a shadow of something flashed again. "Are there fishes in this lake?" I asked the elf.


    "If you mean mermaid by fish then yes, and also other creatures we have yet to see."


    "H-How deep is this lake?"


    The elf smiled eerily, "As deep as the ocean, this lake is a part of the sea."


    I nodded deftly, observing the calm lake again.


    And suddenly I heard a whisper, like a song. Its voice a beautiful melody. Something told me it was the mermaid, but I was too engrossed in my own world to clearly heed that warning. I listened in more closely, trying to make sense of the syllables the voice spoke of.


    I felt Sian shifting and felt like he was saying something to me, but I couldn''t hear it above the damned song, it was like I was summoned to keep listening to it.


    I found myself moving, a hand coming to reach for me, pulling on my jacket. But I pulled myself away from the grasp and moved to the edge of the boat instead.


    I watched, as the shadow started to emerge from the waters and bright colorful scales greeted me. Submerging back down hiding from my view.


    And I was startled, as a face popped up inches away from mine, beautiful but evil at the same time. The face of the girl looked so serene, just like the lake itself, but her eyes were full of darkness and mystery, inlaid with mischief.


    "Want to play with me?" she asked in her angelic whisper. Her lips soft and supple, inviting even.


    "No." I told her.


    And it made her beautiful face distort with rage and a certain surprise, "What did you say?"


    I stared at her with a tilt of my head, "You are beautiful, but not my type."


    And she screeched at me, showing her sharp fangs. Although she stopped once a small hook landed on her body.


    She clutched it in her small fist and with a strong tug, she dipped back into the water.


    Snapping out of my trance, I looked around the boat with confusion, noticing a very still Sian and the worried elf who had took to throwing the hook. I concluded the mermaids feared hooks for some reason.


    The elf was the first one to break the silence, "I told you to resist the temptation."


    "Which I did, partly anyway." I mumbled with embarrassment, the mermaid really had snapped me in her net.


    "Which is strange," the elf stated, though not to us.


    Sian finally grew aware of his element and looked at me with anger, "What was that?!"


    "...what?"


    "Didn''t your father gave you a locket to wear? Where is it?"


    I became flustered, "That gold pendant? I forgot to wear it."


    It was true, father had gifted me a golden locket for my protection, so that I could ward off evil like that mermaid, but I by chance forgot about it in my worry. I didn''t tell Sian because I just knew he was going to lose his cool once he heard about it, which he was doing currently.


    "I can''t believe you," he sighed, falling back on his seat with a slump. "That is why that mermaid came after you, although you didn''t fall prey to her charms." then he added, "I could give you my own ward but it won''t suit you, since it is specially made for me."


    "Then let it be, I am assigning you the duty of my protection."


    Sian snorted, "Yeah, I tried to pull you back but you just shrugged me off. Are you eating some soldier pill or something? You have become stronger."


    "You trained me for a month Sian, of course I am stronger." I resisted the urge to roll my eyes.


    The elf who had been rowing us suddenly stopped rowing and cleared his throat while looking at us bickering. "Apologies for the disruption, but we are here."


    His words echoed into our brains and we both turned to look behind us.


    The mist had started to part as we got a clearer view of the structure.


    There stood a giant fortress with high conical roofs and gothic structuring. The long pointed arches for the windows and the brownish red walls for the exterior. It was a massive dwelling, almost like a small town in itself.


    It was mostly like a walled city growing over a huge hill, the design well suited for steeper terrains.


    "Welcome to Rynderg gentlemen."


    I licked my dry lips, "Does the mist always stay here?"


    The elf smiled strangely, "No, but it does in the mornings and the evenings. Do not worry, it is not as fearful as it seems."


    I could only nod in reaction, already feeling intimidated.