ã€ŠThe Deus Vinculum: The Moonlight Forgeã€‹


 Prologue: The Escape

    In this world of magic and war, there are always people who receive the worst treatment. The frontline fighters, the cannon fodder. Slaves are used as both, worthless to most, but valuable in vast numbers. And the ones that follow orders, are given better lives. When captured, slaves are forced into magical collars. Making them obedient and if slave rebels, the collar activates causing great pain. If it goes on long enough it will break them, becoming mentally broken. From there they are brought back up, as a mindless slave. Never questioning orders.

    One army uses slaves for most of their fighters, they capture and train them from young. And if they notice a team growing within a batch of slaves, they allow it. But force all the group through much harder training. Even their collars are strengthed to assure they can''t rebel. One team excelled above the others, a trio. Zero, Ander, and Scythe. Zero always wore black, especially to cover his red hair, if he let it grow. His eyes were a cold blue. He had a smaller frame compared to his peers, but make no mistake, he could kill you while looking you in your eyes.

    Ander was of elvish descent, but he was only half-elf. He had golden hair letting it grow longer. He had one eye color from both of his parents, one blue, the other golden. He was most skilled with a bow, able to shoot further and faster, both with accuracy and precision.

    And Scythe. He was a young adult, his silver-white hair kept short. His sapphire eyes gained quite a reputation. People wanted his eyes as their own. He wore crude iron gauntlets, greaves, and a small chest plate. Each scavenged from his missions. The remaining parts of his armor were leather. Using a sword and shield was his weapon of choice.

    They were useful to the higher ranks when they learned how well the three of them could fight. Each trained in the same basics, how to use any and every weapon that didn''t use magic. And from there it was up to the slave to continue training with a certain weapon. Each of them had the absolute basic armor.

    Preparing for a new mission, the trio cleaned their gear. Watching their captain''s movements. The captain was a weasel of a man, small arms and legs. He was known for beating slaves and having them thank him for it. All of his power was in the whip he held. The whip could activate the collars, and they were more afraid of the whip than the man. "Scythe, your team will move in first." the captain howled, raising the whip, "Time for you to head out."

    "Yes, sir. Zero, Ander, let''s move. We''re going along the cliff." Scythe stood up, even now Scythe stood taller than the captain.Unauthorized reproduction: this story has been taken without approval. Report sightings.

    "Yes," the other slaves nodded.

    Making their move they walked along the cliffside while walking, everything went silent, the birds and insects fell quiet. "Scythe you smell that?" Ander asked, "Something is burning."

    "Wait¡­ it''s smoke? But there are no plumes." Scythe said

    "We should move on," Zero commented

    "Let''s go," Scythe said continuing to walk.

    Hours later, a panic was heard behind the team. Trees were getting thrown, and a massive dust cloud was seen. Seconds later, several men on horseback were galloping away from the clouds, "... told you. Wait, let''s use those people as bait." the one with a feather cap shouted.

    Before any could react, an arrow flew past Scythe''s neck cutting the collar slightly. His body seized up in pain. The collar had activated. An arrow then pierced his shoulder, seeing his two brothers in arms get riddled with arrows, he started to panic, running to the cliff edge. Looking back at his friends, another arrow was planted into his leg and fell down the cliff. The last thing he felt was the ice-cold water feeling like a thousand arrows all over his body.

    Waking up everything felt surreal, it was pitch black. A pool of blood replaced the arrow, but he was so cold. He already felt frozen. A voice nagged at him, keeping him awake. "Hey¡­ Hey Scythe, you need to keep moving, you need to run!" All at once, he woke up, getting up was difficult, but he still managed to stand up. Feeling a cold stone wall on his left, he used that to support himself.

    Time has little meaning in such darkness. But hunger is a sure sign that he was still alive. Walking down the seemingly endless tunnel. The arrow in his leg ached, and his shoulder screaming in pain. What felt like the first time in eternity, he saw a flickering light. Reaching out, Scythe asked for help, but no words came out. He felt his end was coming, and collapsed. Barely awake he heard footsteps run towards him, the man or woman, Scythe couldn''t tell, asked if he needed help. Then once again he laid in the pitch black.

    Waking up in a soft bed, with a warm blanket on top of him. Looking around the room, there were two people, one man, and a woman, who both looked exhausted, she had blood on her hands. The man had a solid build, Scythe could tell he was a fighter. His black hair looked orange from the fire in the fireplace. The woman had a softer look, what Scythe saw of her hands they were covered in small nicks and pricks. She cooked a lot. but just by looking at her hands, something in Scythe made him recall home.

    The woman looked up. "Well, welcome back. I thought I lost you, Zander over there found you in the sewers."

    Scythe tried to sit up but was forced back down. "Don''t move yet, your wounds are deep, get your rest for now."

    Trying to get the words out, Scythe spoke, "Thank¡­ you."

 Chapter One

    A few days later, Scythe was able to stand on his own. While in bed he learned the names of the people who saved him, Zander, and his wife Alicia and that his collar was now gone. Scythe was happy yet terrified.

    Watching the two of them do their own work, was almost mesmerizing. Zander had this air of authority, but Alicia held more of the power. Zander joked around a few times, Alicia would just shake her head.

    Now that Scythe was able to see each of them better, Zander had the body of a fighter. His hands calloused and rough, but they were warm. Unlike Alicia, who always had colder hands, but hers were smoother. Zander did a lot of work outside, coming back in dirty. Alicia seemed to always have a new little task. From knitting to weaving, stitching leather, she was busy all the time.

    Scythe walked up to Zander "Thank you again for saving me. I want to ask something?"

    "No worries, go ahead speak your mind." Zander looked up from cleaning off the dirt.

    "I uhh¡­ don''t have a way to pay either of you back, please let me know how I can help, or any job you want me to do." Scythe cautiously spoke.

    "Well, for now, get better, then we will talk."

    "I am better now." Scythe faked a smile

    "Kid, I saw your wounds and¡­ and the scars, you take your time getting better, besides if I put you to work, my wife will kill me."

    "Okay, just let me know if you need help anywhere." Scythe said.

    Over the next few days, Scythe started to help with small chores. Days turned to weeks, time seemed to fly while he was helping out. Soon Alicia seemed to be gaining weight, and her belly grew outwards. "Scythe I''ve never asked this, but do you have parents?"

    "Yes, they live in a temple far to the north, but I haven''t seen them in years."

    "When did you last see them?" Alicia asked

    "I don''t know." Scythe answered

    "Okay, have you sent them any letters? I am sure they are worried about you." her eyes spoke a thousand words of sadness, but her face stayed straight

    "I¡­ haven''t seen them since. It was hard being a slave, I can barely remember their faces."

    "Oh honey, come here," Alicia tried to hug Scythe, Scythe recoiled harshly, "Please don''t touch me."

    Alicia seemed to get even sadder, "Well, can we start here?" She reached out to his hand. "Sure." Scythe shook her hand.

    "How long do you think you will stay?"

    "I don''t know, It''s been so long since I had such freedom, it''s almost scary."

    "That''s just life, it''s always scary. But here is an idea for you, why don''t you stay, soon I''m going to be unable to do much." Alicia rubbed her stomach, "I''m sure Zander could use your help around here."

    "You know, that doesn''t sound that bad, I''ll stay here. Thank you for having me."

    Helping out day in, and day out, doing hard work, lifting stones, clearing a few trees, time becomes irrelevant. Scythe grew accustomed to this way of life. The simple life, but something inside him yearned for more. But after being a slave for so long, Scythe still slept with one eye open.

    It was a long day when Scythe and Zander returned home, but the excitement had only begun. Alicia had a few friends over, to knit and spin yarn when her contractions started during the day, and by the time they returned from work Zander was a father to two young children, one boy, Fraser. Named after Zanders''s father. And one girl, Sapphire. Most would think they are cute, but Scythe didn''t think they were. "Scythe¡­ I wanted to ask this but, no time seemed right¡­ would you be an older brother to my two stars?" Alicia asked

    "We know you have family, but we also want to be your family, do you mind if we call you our son?"

    "I¡­ I¡­"

    "Go for it kid, they are great people."This novel is published on a different platform. Support the original author by finding the official source.

    "Thanks, Mom, and you too Dad." Scythe started to cry, he reached in for a hug while crying his eyes out. Both Zander and Alicia pulled him into a stronger hug. They both spoke, "Welcome home, Scythe." Many tears flowed that night. Scythe was adopted into a caring home and became an older brother.

    Over the next few months, Scythe and Zander built fences and expanded the main building and a few sheds. "Hey Zander, I wanted to ask something, what were you doing when you found me in the sewers?"

    "I was hired to search the sewers, for any damage, by the Guild, give me a little more support here."

    Scythe lifted the board some more, "This much good? So the Guild?"

    "Yep, The Guild of Adventures, kinda like merc''s for hire, doing odd jobs for people. Sometimes it is just building, cleaning up messes, but usually, the best paying is hunting monsters. I did that for a while before Ali, and I didn''t want to leave her alone in this world. I still contact my old team, to see how things are going, two of them have settled down, one is the vice-guild master. Why''d you ask?"

    "Well I kinda want to see the world, I am really grateful for everything you both have given me. But¡­"

    "You itch for more?"

    "How did you know?"

    "You have that look in your eyes, I know it because I wanted to explore when I was younger as well. But the world out there¡­ it''s unforgiving, make a mistake and it could mean your grave. I almost died once, that coldness, I never want to feel it again."

    "I know what you mean."

    "I understand everyone has their own story but a kid like you shouldn''t have been that close. Since

    we are talking about our past, what about yourself?"

    "Other than my time here, I used to live far north, but while I was traveling I was captured, and turned into a slave¡­" Scythe shivered, "I had to earn the right to eat, the right to sleep, I was beaten bloody more times than I can count, it was the same thing daily until I became valuable to the captains, I learned to fight from my uncle, but these people¡­ broke me down, and put me back together... Sorry, that was a lot."

    "It''s fine¡­ It''s all fine, thank you for sharing that."

    "I still have a number of things to process."

    "An old saying goes, A journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step."

    "Wasn''t that an old general?"

    "You know your stuff."

    "Yeah my mom''s taught me many things, I kinda miss it."

    "After we are done today, I want to give you something."

    "Okay, sure."

    A few hours later, they finished up work. Zander led Scythe into the cellar. Pulling a book and opening a hidden room, lined with treasure, and magical weapons, "I want you to choose a weapon."

    "What? Why?"

    "You want to be an adventurer, you need a good weapon, me doing this, is giving you a push to do what you want to. So choose a weapon."

    Each weapon was as beautiful as the last, but weapons were not the only thing in the room, there were many armors and tools. Scythe had a hard time choosing until that voice spoke again, "Look to your left, the long single-edged blade."

    "Huh, the kriegsmesser, that thing is almost too heavy to use, but you''re welcome to try."

    Scythe walked over to it and picked it up, even though the blade was the same length as Scythes height, it felt light but had heft, "It''s a little light, do you have a shield I could use? What''s up, you look like you''re seeing a ghost or something."

    "Look at the blade."

    Scythe looked back at the blade, and it was glowing with runic letters. The blade shrunk ever slightly and became lighter in the hand. "It adjusted itself to me? I''ve never seen a blade do that. Have you?"

    "No, but I think that means that it chose you, and yeah I have a couple of shields, but that blade doesn''t need a shield paired with it. Huh, I might have something though, give me a moment." Zander started looking through the piles of gear, "Is it here? No¡­ over here, no, where did I leave those, ah over there," Zander got up and went across the room, "Maybe, AHA! Found you!"

    "What." Scythe walked over and zander was pulling out a chest.

    "Now this stuff is some top-level gear, it may look simple, but I promise it''s good." Zander opened the chest, within it was a pair of gauntlets, greeves and a black coat with belts, "I think this all will fit you, how about you try it on?"

    A few moments later, Scythe had all the pieces on. "You know, that fits you a little too well, but some would say it''s a perfect fit."

    Scythe lifted his arms looking down at himself, turning partly to see his back. "Are you sure you want to give me this stuff?"

    "Look at how much I have, I won''t miss it, besides you need it more than me, but promise me this," Zander went serious, "never underestimate your opponent. A simple looking creature could hold the power to kill you in a flash."

    "I won''t underestimate, I promise."

    "Good," Zander went back to his aloof self, "Now let''s get back upstairs, and bring that stuff with you."

    "Yep."

    On their way back up, they smelled the food Alicia was cooking, and everyone seemed to relax.

    In the weeks following the day Scythe received the weapon and armor. Scythe practiced with it whenever he could, when he wasn''t helping Zander build, or Alicia with the twins. Until one night he was outside practicing, and heard tiny footsteps coming from the forest. Taking a look, it was goblins, about twenty from the noise, but with goblins where there is one, there are more not far behind. Even more so with this party of twenty. Running back inside, and waking up Zander. "What was that?"

    "Goblins, about twenty of them."

    And like that, Zander was awake, and getting Alicia up. "Go back outside and if they move start attacking them, but stay close to the house. Don''t stray far. Goblins are smarter than what we give them credit for."

    "Right." Back outside, the goblins seem to not have moved, but something else stirred in the shadows.

 Chapter Two

    Scythe stayed near the house but heard something moving, and the screams of goblins. ¡°Hey Scythe¡± Zander whispered to Scythe, ¡°Anything?¡±

    ¡°Yeah, something is killing those goblins, and I don¡¯t know what it is.¡±

    ¡°That is never a good sign.¡±

    ¡°I know. I want to see what it is, but I can¡¯t shake this feeling something is watching me.¡±

    Zander tapped on Scythe¡¯s shoulder, ¡°look over there.¡±

    In the bushes a pair of glowing green eyes glowed in the moonlight, they stayed still never blinking. ¡°Watch my back,¡± Scythe stood up.

    ¡°Be careful, it might be a basilisk.¡±

    ¡°Do I try talking to it?¡±

    ¡°Who knows it might work.¡±

    ¡°HEY! Who goes there?¡± Scythe readied his blade

    No response came. A serpentine body slithered forward, it¡¯s fangs glowing white.

    It lunged forward.

    Scythe stepped to the side and struck downward. Almost severing the head, it coiled back spilling blood everywhere.

    The light of dawn filled the clearing, showing all the blood in vivid detail. ¡°Good job Scythe, you took down a class C monster alone.¡± Zander congratulated, ¡°Hey you okay.¡±

    Scythe held the blade and was shaking. ¡°No, I don¡¯t think so. I¡¯m kinda freaking out.¡±

    ¡°Hey, listen to my voice,¡± Zander grabbed the blade, pushing it into the ground, ¡°you are alive, what you did was right. Life is a precious thing, but protecting yourself is also important. Today, we will expand our search, one to see if there are more snakes like that, and two, track those goblins. Where there is one, there are ten more waiting.¡±

    ¡°Yeah,¡± Scythe spoke still tense.

    ¡°Let¡¯s get food first, goblins rarely move during the day.¡±

    ¡°Yeah, Sure.¡±

    ¡°Hey, don¡¯t forget to breathe. You head on in, I¡¯ll go carve that snake.¡±

    ¡°Okay.¡±

    A half-hour later Zander entered, tossing Scythe a crystal ¡°Well Scythe, you made the kill, you earned this,¡±

    ¡°What is it?¡±

    ¡°Oh, it¡¯s just a¡­ wait you don¡¯t know what a core is?¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m sorry I don¡¯t.¡±

    ¡°No need to apologize, Scythe, every adventurer learns sometimes,¡± Alicia said while cooking, ¡°I remember the first time I cut into a monster, that was years back.¡±If you encounter this story on Amazon, note that it''s taken without permission from the author. Report it.

    ¡°Not that long dear, only a couple years.¡± Zander added, ¡°But put simply, a core is the heart of a monster if you know where the core is, you can destroy the entire body, but you don¡¯t get anything from it. The body turns to ash if the core is destroyed. But if you kill the monster without destroying the core, like what you did, you can get its body parts. I¡¯m thinking of turning the bones into fertilizer.¡±

    ¡°So it¡¯s a cycle?¡±

    ¡°Yeah, in a way.¡±

    After eating breakfast, Scythe and Zander went into the woods, after gearing up, with bows and plenty of arrows. Following the footsteps, they slowly found a cave, where two goblins were out front. ¡°Looks like the guard, and they are too well equipped for a normal horde. They must have a leader or something is leading them.¡±

    ¡°Burn them!¡±

    ¡°Did you say something Zander?¡± Scythe asked

    ¡°What do you mean? The part about there being a leader or something else?¡±

    ¡°You didn¡¯t say burn them.'''' At that moment, Scythes fingers tingled with a sensation he hasn¡¯t felt in years. ¡°Hey Scythe look at your hand, are you doing that on purpose!?¡± Zander backed off

    Scythe looked at his hand seeing a small flame starting to grow. Seeing that magic, sent Scythe back into his memories.

    A cool summer day, ¡°Mom when do I learn magic? Aura learned how to already. I want to do magic too.¡± A childish voice spoke.

    ¡°Little one, you almost hurt yourself last time you tried.¡± a woman spoke softly, her face blurred.

    ¡°But I¡¯m wayyy stronger now.¡±

    ¡°If you really want too.¡± the woman tapped on her lap, ¡°Come here, I¡¯ll give a personal lesson, something Aurora has yet to learn.¡±

    ¡°Really!¡± the child squealed and sat on the lap.

    ¡°Yes.¡± the woman spoke, ¡°Now, here you remember what I said, magic comes in many forms.¡±

    ¡°Yeah.¡± the child nodded

    ¡°That most effective, but also the hardest method to do spells isn¡¯t controlling it within your body, but as an extension to your body. Like the sword lessons, Irgo gives you about a sword. If you can control magic itself, you can create things that are miracles. Like this.¡± the woman flicked out her wrist, and created a blue flame, ¡°Normally you don¡¯t touch fire, but this one time, you may touch it.¡±

    The child touched the flames, and giggled, ¡°It tickles, and it isn¡¯t hot like normal fire.¡±

    ¡°Can you guess why?¡±

    The child shook his head.

    ¡°Let me tell you¡­¡±

    ¡°...the, Scythe wake up.¡± Zander shook Scythe

    ¡°What? What happened?¡±

    ¡°You went into a daze, I¡¯ve never seen this happen to you. Are you okay?¡±

    ¡°Yeah. I know what to do.¡± Scythe stood up, and reached out with his left hand and chanted a single word, ¡°Ignite!¡± a large steady flame rushed towards the cave, burning the goblins to ash. But Scythe¡¯s hand locked up. ¡°How long have you been able to use magic of that level?¡±

    ¡°What do you mean? That¡¯s only basic magic. I can¡¯t do any of the big explosive stuff, it hurts too much to use.¡±

    ¡°And what you did isn¡¯t big explosive stuff? That was at least an intermediate level spell. Well, we might just go home, the cave collapsed, when I head into the city next. I¡¯ll inform the guild.¡±

    ¡°Let me go too.¡± Scythe perked up.

    ¡°Well¡­ let me think a couple of things through.¡±

    On the return home, no other tracks were found. The silence between Scythe and Zander was almost unsettling. ¡°Scythe wait out here, I¡¯ll be back in just a moment.¡± Zander went inside. A few minutes passed, and Zander came out with Alicia and the twins. Zander gestured to Scythe to follow. Standing outside the main gate, Zander pulled out a key, placing it into the gate. Everything started to glow. And in a blink of an eye, the entire house, and all the sheds disappeared into a locket. ¡°What is that?¡± Scythe asked

    ¡°It¡¯s a magic item I got from a dungeon, Pandra¡¯s Locket. I don¡¯t really understand it, it was a popular item in the last Great Magic Age. but finding one is almost next to impossible. Almost all of them were destroyed, no one knows why. It¡¯s just that the records all say different things.¡±

    ¡°But you have one.¡±

    ¡°It¡¯s just a lucky find. Besides, it means I can move wherever I want, whenever I want.¡±

    ¡°So what''s the plan then?¡± Scythe asked

    ¡°We are going to the city, this is no place to raise children. While we are at it, you could join the Guild. I¡¯ll put in a good word to my friends.¡±

 Chapter Three

    After traveling for a few days, the group reached the city, Agon. It¡¯s bastion walls, seemed to reach the sky. From the outside, you could hear the bustling city. Cresting the last hill before the main gate, there was a line of people, with carts, and bags. ¡°Those people there are peddlers, they make their living selling odd and different objects. Their costs could be anywhere from a few copper bits, to gold coins.¡± Alicia informed.

    ¡°Thanks,¡± Scythe spoke, ¡°So what is a city like?¡±

    ¡°Huh¡­ that is a hard one to explain. It¡¯s the kinda thing you need to experience for yourself.¡± Alicia scratched her nose, ¡°Honey, would you agree.¡±

    ¡°Yeah,¡± Zander looked back, ¡°but even in a bright city, the shadows can be even darker, and hide frightful truths. Alicia, do we tell him now, or let him find out?¡±

    ¡°He¡¯ll find out either way,¡± Alicia answered.

    ¡°Scythe, Alicia and I are¡­¡±

    ¡°Your majesty, you have returned!?¡± a guard shouted, ¡°the queen regent has every guard looking out for you.¡±

    ¡°So she has. Scythe¡­ I was just about to tell you. We would¡¯ve told you sooner, but neither of us knew who you were, I¡¯m sorry, but what he says is true. I am the current king. Are you okay?¡± Zander¡¯s shoulders dropped.

    ¡°It¡¯s fine. Just a little surprised that all.¡± Scythe downplayed his surprise.

    ¡°Well let''s go on in,¡± Alicia spoke.

    Led in by the guard, the group made their way to the castle. Upon reaching the castle gate, a horn blew, and the town crier shouted, ¡°HIS MAJESTY THE KING, HAS RETURNED!¡±

    ¡°I didn¡¯t miss that, for sure,¡± Zander commented

    ¡°It kinda feels embarrassing now.¡±

    ¡°But the worst is yet to come.¡± Zander sighed.

    A moment later, the castle hall doors were kicked open as a woman in half-plate armor came running out, and picked Zander up by his collar, ¡°NOW YOU COME BACK! Do you know how much stress I¡¯ve been under? Leading a kingdom isn¡¯t exactly easy you know.¡± the woman shouted in Zanders''s face.

    ¡°Well nice to see you too sis, and please stop yelling, you will wake up the kids.¡±

    Zander¡¯s sister took a deep breath, ¡°Fine, but you are getting an earful later. So who is the white hair kid?¡±

    ¡°Scythe this is my sister, Astela, Astela this is Scythe, my adoptive son. I found him in the sewer almost now, what, two, maybe three years ago. He says he has a family to the north, but he hasn¡¯t seen them in years. Let''s just say he has a tough history.¡±

    ¡°Zander, we are the northernmost kingdom, anything else is dragon territory. How do you know he isn¡¯t a spy?¡±

    ¡°I saw something on him that no child should have.¡± Zander looked at Scythe, ¡°Do you mind if I share it, or do you want to show them?¡±

    ¡°You can tell her.¡± Scythe shivered.

    ¡°He said¡­ he was a slave, for a couple of years.¡± Zander choked

    Astela covered her mouth, ¡°poor child, you¡¯ve been through a lot. Since you are my brother''s kid, you are one of the family. Welcome home, Scythe.¡±

    ¡°Thanks.¡± Scythe scratched his head.

    ¡°Oh, I almost forgot, Scythe, there is a forge here. I remember you talking about that once. But the forge master might not let you work on it until you prove your skills.¡±

    ¡°Really!?¡± Scythe perked up, ¡°Where is it?¡±

    ¡°Zander, Alicia you two head-on in, I would like to talk to Scythe, and I will lead him to the forge,¡± Astela suggested.

    ¡°Okay,¡± Zander stepped closer, the words were too quiet to hear. After that Zander led Alicia in. ¡°Now they are gone, who are you? My brother is kind, but he won¡¯t take in a stranger.¡±

    ¡°I think it might be because he saved me from almost dying, he also saw the¡­ the scars I have.¡± Scythe moved his collar and leaned his head to the side, revealing three deep scars on his left shoulder, ¡°there are more¡­¡±

    Astela put her hand on Scythe¡¯s shoulder, ¡°Kid, there is no need to show me more. Those, I know what made those scars, it¡¯s a torture tool made by an opposing kingdom to our southeast, I¡¯ve seen worse, but I¡¯ve also seen better. You are still young, so most of those should fade, if not, I¡¯ll see what I can do about contacting a grand healer. But, let''s make haste to the forge.¡±

    Getting to the workshop, Scythe smelled the burning coals and remembered some good things. ¡°My uncle taught me when I was young, he helped me out a lot.¡± Scythe had a genuine smile.The narrative has been taken without permission. Report any sightings.

    ¡°Oh, what was his name?¡±

    ¡°Irgo, Uncle Irgo, he never said the last name.¡±

    ¡°He isn¡¯t by any chance, a tall broad-chested man, with velvety black hair with a scar threw his eyebrow.¡±

    ¡°That sounds right, it¡¯s been a few years, but he didn¡¯t have a scar.¡±

    ¡°Well, let''s see,¡± Astela opened the door, you could see the heat seep out, slightly distorting everything. ¡°I never get used to that heat, HEY IRGO!¡±

    The smith stopped hammering and put his metal back in the fire. ¡°What''s up?¡±

    ¡°I would like you to meet someone, his name is, well come on, introduce yourself.¡±

    ¡°Hello, my name is¡­¡±

    ¡°Scythe, it¡¯s been a few years.¡± Irgo placed his giant hand on Scythe¡¯s shoulder, ¡°Your mothers, spent years looking for you, luna is still looking for you, and Sol, is well herself, but something changed.¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m sorry.¡± Scythe looked down, ¡°It¡¯s just after I caused Aurora pain, I¡­ I just couldn¡¯t stay.¡±

    ¡°Speaking of Aurora, she has turned into quite the warrior, she could silently cast the last time I saw her. By now, she could probably give me a run for my money.¡±

    ¡°Well, I guess there is no need for introductions. I¡¯m going to head out.¡±

    ¡°Talk to you later.¡± Irgo waved

    After Astela left, Irgo started talking, ¡°after you left as you did, Aurora took it upon herself to find you, Luna and Sol wouldn¡¯t let her leave until she could beat me in a fight. She has quite the determination. But what the hell was in that cave? Luna and Sol were terrified after Aurora talked about it. So what was in there?¡±

    ¡°I¡­ I don¡¯t know, a purple-black fire. That''s all I can remember at the moment, I¡¯m sorry.¡±

    ¡°You didn¡¯t agree to anything did you, like a contract?¡±

    ¡°No, I don¡¯t think I did.¡±

    ¡°Liar¡± a voice spoke inside Scythe¡¯s head.

    ¡°I really can¡¯t remember.¡±

    ¡°It¡¯s fine, it all fine,¡± Irgo scratched his head, ¡°it¡¯s been what five maybe six years now, you grew up well, I¡¯m just going to say this when you are ready, you can tell me what happened.¡±

    ¡°I.. I was¡­ I was a slave, I was beaten senseless a lot. When I escaped, two other slaves were killed, and I fell into a river, I woke up in a dark tunnel, I don¡¯t remember much, except for when I saw a light. That was how I met Alicia and Zander.¡±

    Irgo covered his mouth, and rubbed his finger along his cheek, ¡°Well, it¡¯s been a while, but I have a spare forge you could use if you want too?¡±

    ¡°You know, that sounds like fun, it''s been a while. So I might be a little rusty."

    "Well, we all start somewhere, who knows you might remember more after you start."

    Irgo shoveled out some red hot coals, pouring it into the other forge, and added some more unheated coals on top. Scythe worked the bellows, getting a nice hot pot. After working for a while, Scythe took off a few layers to cool down. Keeping at it until Irgo was tired. "Hey kid, make sure to spread out your coals."

    "Huh oh yeah, I''ll do that." Scythe was focused on his metalwork. After Irgo went out, Scythe spread out his coals and cleaned up. When he was finally done, Scythe grabbed his clothes and left. Zander was waiting outside. "Hey kid, how was the forging?"

    "It was a lot of fun. I didn''t realize how much I missed it." Scythe excitedly spoke.

    "Well, that''s good to hear. Follow me, I''ll lead you to your room."

    After walking for a short while, Scythe broke the silence, "thank you."

    "What for?" Zander asked

    "Well for all of this. Letting me into your home, twice now. And when it happens, your help with the Guild. I don''t know how to pay you back. I also want to know more about sword fighting. I feel I was too slow with that snake."

    "Slow?" Zander gave Scythe a look "I can help you, I also think Astela would help you as well. She said you were a good kid, and she is rarely wrong about people."

    "Once again thank you."

    "Your welcome."

    With Zander leading the way, Scythe had time to look at all the paintings, one of which stood out more than others. "Hey, Zander, what is this painting?"

    Zander turned around, "oh that one. I think that one is named Victory of The Twin Goddesses, it''s been in the castle since my grandfather was young. It''s always been there. I think the names of those two Goddesses are, Luna and¡­"

    "Sol."

    "If you knew why did you ask?"

    "I was wondering what that black fire is."

    "That''s a long story. Let me get the book, at least the library is right here. Wait there I''ll be back." Zander slipped into the library.

    Sitting alone, Scythe heard that voice again, "why so interested now, you never wanted to know before. All you wanted was power."

    "I never agreed to this."

    "Oh, but you did. You wanted to save that girl." the voice retorted. ¡°And you agreed to my terms, with a soul contract. Mind you that I gave you ten years, it¡¯s already been eight, you need to get better quite fast if you want to keep living.¡±

    ¡°Fine, I¡¯ll do it then.¡±

    ¡°... Hey Scythe, who were you talking to?¡± Zander exited the library.

    ¡°Sorry just thinking about some stuff.¡±

    ¡°It¡¯s fine, It¡¯s fine, well that book has been missing for some time now, the name is The corruption of the white flame it¡¯s a long title, and an even longer read, I think something like 400 pages. Well, let''s get you to bed.¡±

    ¡°Yeah.¡±

    Scythe continued to be led by Zander. It was only a few turns until they reached the room Scythe would stay in. ¡°this is one of the larger rooms, it kinda has a dojo feel to it, and the walls are a solid three feet thick.¡±

    ¡°It¡¯s nice, it''s kinda like home.¡±

    ¡°I thought you were from the north?¡±

    ¡°I am, but this room is very similar to my mother''s home.¡±

    ¡°So you have eastern blood? You look more northerner. Well, goodnight.¡± Zander said as he started to leave.

    ¡°Yeah, goodnight.¡± Scythe closed the door behind Zander.

 Chapter Four

    Scythe woke up very early in the morning. Seeing the purple flame in the middle of the room, but something about it looked solid and vaguely human. After standing up it singled to come into the fire. Scythe still waking up, walked right on in.

    From a castle to a grassland, surrounded by nothing but flat land, a blade sat right in the center. Everything smoldering ashes. ¡°Scythe, that is the blade I promised to you, you have managed to restore my power, the first part is done. Now it is stage two, pick up that weapon.¡±

    ¡°Wait, say that again?¡± Scythe was confused

    ¡°You restored my power.¡±

    ¡°Uhh, how?¡±

    ¡°This castle was once my fortress. I made power wells across all of my fort¡¯s. I had a different name once, but now even though I have forgotten who I was, I still have my instincts. I survived thousands of years in the fox cave. And I feel I¡¯ll know who I was after restoring my power with these Wells of Ruun.¡±

    ¡°What¡¯s a well of Ruun.¡±

    ¡°Here let me show you.¡± the figure leaned down and placed its fingers on the ground. Scythe was filled with energy.¡±

    ¡°That was new.¡± Scythe was fully awake, his body almost crackling energy, ¡°But where are we?¡±

    ¡°This is my home,¡± the figure snapped, and the land reshaped itself, the horizon was quickly filled with trees, bushes, even its lifeforms. ¡°Time is not what you think it is anymore.¡±

    ¡°I don¡¯t even understand you.¡±

    ¡°If luna taught you, you know time can go at different speeds, based on The Relativistic Law.¡±

    ¡°How did you know about that?¡±

    ¡°We of the higher dimensions can visit other smaller dimensions, learning all their history into us is only a small time. Those humans got quite far but were too shortsighted, but understanding the universe, that was impressive, for lower dimensions.¡± The figure raised it¡¯s hand to its face, ¡°I¡¯m leading this for too long, let¡¯s be brief, three things, one, a new form of magic, in a much purer state, two, improving you and your sword skills, and three, this magic can cause changes.¡±

    ¡°I still don¡¯t understand.¡±

    ¡°Get that sword,¡± the figure pointed, ¡°and prepare to fight.¡±

    ¡°Okay.¡±

    The moments started to flash by, Scythe lost track of how long it was. Then everything slowed. ¡°What was that?¡±

    ¡°Just a bit of my power, do you still feel good?¡±

    ¡°Yeah, how long passed?¡±

    ¡°Three months.¡±

    ¡°What, that was all the time to apply to the guild.¡±

    ¡°Wait, three months passed in this dimension. In your dimension, not even three seconds have passed. The farthest I can go is 5 months, to a second, I can¡¯t go deeper until I gather more power.¡±

    ¡°Let¡¯s go for five months. I want to be the best.¡±

    ¡°The best? I know things that can kill you with a breath. If you want to be the best, you have a long road ahead of you.¡±

    ¡°Lets just train.¡±

    ¡°Okay.¡± the figure snapped again, time skipped into scenes but remembering all the fights, wounds, timing, countering. Everything was clear, for only a moment. ¡°If we go any longer, it could get worse, your body has aged slightly.¡± the figure returned,¡± time to be over.¡±

    ¡°What.. oh¡­ how long was I gone?¡±

    ¡°about 23 seconds, you learn kinda fast, the last person took over 2200 seconds, the moment she returned, she was different. So you are way too responsive to Ruun. you barely aged a day, but that first batch of energy is close to wearing out.¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m fine.¡±

    ¡°I¡¯ve seen too many people puke, and it should happen about now.¡±

    ¡°What do you mean?¡± Scythe was fine, ¡°I do want to sleep.¡±A case of theft: this story is not rightfully on Amazon; if you spot it, report the violation.

    ¡°Even stranger¡±

    ¡°What¡±

    ¡°You¡¯re not sick. Then...¡± it stalled

    ¡°What''s the problem.¡±

    ¡°Who are your parents?¡±

    ¡°I don¡¯t know, I was raised by Luna and Sol.¡±

    ¡°And you''re not a fox, did your parents leave you anything.¡±

    ¡°A silver necklace¡­¡±

    ¡°... and a jewel that looks like an ocean.¡± the figure made many hand motions, and a little bit later, a sigh. ¡°Well, fuck.¡±

    ¡°What now?¡±

    ¡°Nothing, just go back.¡±

    ¡°What?¡± Scythe was pushed back into his room. Still with the sword, now looking at the blade it was a midnight black, with black leather with royal purple stitching. It had even more heft than a six-foot blade, but only 47 inches long. The guard angled upward, used for fluid combat. It gave massive amounts of Ruun to Scythe, who felt energized, but back in his younger body, he didn¡¯t have the physical strength to contain it, from a few years of practice. The energy returned to the blade, Scythe returned to his normal body. And a sheath formed around the blade. Scythe fell on his ass. And the blade stayed still. ¡°I need some rest.¡± Scythe fell asleep before he reached his bed.

    The next morning.

    Bird song woke Scythe from his slumber in his bed. He looked at his previous sword. It was wrong, all wrong. Getting up and washing his face. He grabbed the old sword, remembering how it adjusted to him once before, he wanted it to do it again. Searching through his memories, he put Ruun into the blade. And it adjusted once more. Now just like the figure''s sword. Someone knocked at the door twice, ¡°Hey, your dad told me to wake you up¡­ god, I will punch him.¡± Astela chatted.

    ¡°I¡¯m already awake, and dressed, you can enter.¡±

    ¡°Ok, your dad told me to train you, and so I will. Bring that sword after you get some practice armor on.¡±

    ¡°Okay, I¡¯ll follow shortly, Scythe moved to his closet, where his coat and armor was put. Putting it on. ¡°Hey, flame?¡±

    ¡°Flame? Well, I guess I never did tell you my name, you may call me, Phae.¡± Phae spoke.

    ¡°Fae?¡±

    ¡°You¡¯re close, but with more Ph¡± Phae spoke.

    ¡°So Phae, what happened was a dream, or was it real?¡±

    ¡°Well, there are dreams that can feel real, but that was just a dream.¡± Phae diminished the idea, ¡°I don¡¯t have that level of power yet.¡±

    ¡°Okay.¡±

    Getting outside, some clouds were glowing a range of colors with the help of the rising sun. Astela was staging her practice gear, she stood to wait. Scythe walked up to her, waving, ¡°Morning.¡±

    ¡°Morning, you seem more awake now. So I am confident about my skills, so you can use your sword.¡±

    ¡°I wouldn''t say it¡¯s mine, just that I¡¯m borrowing it.¡±

    ¡°Zander said you were surprisingly modest.¡±

    ¡°Uhh¡­¡± Scythe scratched his head, ¡°Thanks, I guess.¡±

    Off a dime, Astela readied her blade, ¡°draw your sword. Time to practice.¡±

    ¡°En.¡± Scythe nodded, drawing his blade, Scythe dropped down, same as the dream.

    Cross blade strikes, grunts, and thwacks were heard in the training zone. Slowly a crowd gathered. Watching and making bets on who will be the first person on the ground.

    Time continued to pass, slowly both Scythe and Astela became exhausted, each blow matched the others. By the time Zander woke up and found out, it was over. A win for Astela. ¡°Kid, who taught you before me?¡±

    ¡°Well, Irgo did.¡± Scythe spoke from the ground.

    ¡°Here,¡± Astela let down her hand and pulled Scythe up, ¡°I could tell, but there was something else in your fighting style. It almost made me go life or death with you.¡±

    ¡°You would win that, for sure.¡± Scythe spoke through his ragged breath.

    ¡°Keep up your practice and you might win, your attacks didn¡¯t have much power behind them, but the onslaught¡­ oh, that could cause some trip up for fighters like me.¡±

    ¡°Well thanks then?¡±

    ¡°Stand tall, you fought longer than I expected from you, Zander said slight training, but what you showed was years of work and coordination. You are only fifteen or so right?¡±

    ¡°Yeah. at least I think so, I don¡¯t know how long I was a slave for.¡±

    ¡°That¡­ would make things difficult.¡± Astela muttered, ¡°We are going to do this daily, are you fine with that.¡±

    ¡°Yeah, maybe some stretches beforehand, I¡¯m a little stiff.¡±

    ¡°Hey Scythe,¡± Zander jumped in, ¡°How was the first day?¡±

    ¡°Good. It was strangely fun.¡±

    ¡°He did well.¡± Astela complemented.

    ¡°Scythe you go on to anything else you want to do, I have to discuss some things with my sister.¡±

    ¡°Sure.¡± Scythe walked off, but as he walked off, he heard a bit of a conversation. ¡°So how is he?¡±

    ¡°He is older than you think, he always stayed light on his feet, his power, it¡¯s almost a¡­¡±

    ¡°Oye! Kid,¡± A guard waved, and ran up, ¡°You dropped this.¡±

    The guard handed Scythe a necklace.

    Scythe grabbed at his neck, now noticing his necklace was gone, ¡°Oh thanks, I didn¡¯t notice at all.¡±

    ¡°I was just watching close, I barely noticed it myself. You gave the knight-captain a run for her money.¡±

    ¡°I wasn¡¯t close, she would¡¯ve won.¡±

    ¡°Well, it was still a good fight to watch.¡± The guard jokes, ¡°well good luck, she can become different when she is teaching.¡±

    ¡°Thanks.¡±

    ¡°No worries kid.¡± the guard waved and went to his post.

    ¡°Scythe, come here.¡± Zander spoke aloud, ¡°Want to go to the guild today, Astela thinks you are ready.¡±

    ¡°I uh¡­ I don¡¯t know¡­¡± Scythe pondered.

    ¡°Well grab your stuff, and let¡¯s go.¡±

    ¡°Okay.¡± Scythe just went with the flow.

 Chapter Five

    It was only a short walk to the guild from the castle. Inside it looked like a normal tavern, but one wall was covered in quests, the vast majority are for hunting, others are escorts and protective details. Zander walked to the main desk, "Hey is Escal open now."

    Without looking up, the desk clerk spoke, "If you want an appointment with the guild master, please make one," The clerk looked up, "Oh I''m so sorry your majesty, I will see to it now."

    The clerk ran upstairs, as the manager took her place, "So your majesty, I remember when you were just a kid. You haven''t taken many hunting quests as you used too."

    "Yeah, I got married, and I''m a father now. What about you Claire?" Zander asked

    "Same old, new adventurers not knowing what to do. So why are you here?" Claire asked

    "Get this kid registered," Zander pointed at Scythe.

    The clerk looked Scythe up and down, "really? You are using your connection with the master, to get this kid registered."

    "I''m not asking for a free pass." Zander said, "He wants to earn it himself."

    "Really," the clerk looked at Scythe, "so you want to do this?"

    "Yeah." Scythe answered

    From upstairs, "ZANDER IS HERE!" A moment later, someone came running down the stairs. "How have you been? I haven''t talked much with you since the dragon we killed in the western mountains, have you heard more about the other things."

    "Yeah, Escal, it''s been two years now. With that, it''s been quiet."

    "So is that the boy in question?" Escal asked, "He is quite young-looking."

    "Escal, he gave me a good match this morning?" Astela said.

    "You, The Lightning Blade herself, damn I might need to go a match with the kid, I haven''t had a good thill in a while. Miss Claire, could you open my afternoon, I''ll be the test fight."

    "Sir, you are reserved for the higher classes. If a newbie fights you off the bat, he is already considered a high class."

    "Well, it shouldn''t take more than a quarter-hour, I''ll be back shortly." Escal spoke loudly, "Come on Scythe and party."

    Going into the back training room, "So to get a basic ranking you need to last at least a minute with me, to become a higher class, well last longer. Or in the event you win, I guarantee a high rank, but it''s unlikely you will win."

    Astela grabbed Scythe before he went into the ring, and whispered, "He is a knucklehead, don''t play the long game, keep your head down."

    "Thanks." Scythe spoke

    Walking into the ring, Scythe drew out his blade. The match started slow, testing each other. Trying for weak spots, learning the line.

    Then at the drop of a coin, both launched in.

    Scythe seemingly danced around the blade.

    Escal had wide sweeping arcs.

    Each fought, never connecting except for swords.

    The intensity grew from a simple match to borderline fight to the death.

    As each began to slow, strikes grew ever closer together, getting closer and closer to clothing and skin.

    Both went for a kill strike, as a spear landed between the two blades. Each an inch away, Scythe''s, against Escal''s throat, and Escals massive blade, just over Scythes left shoulder. Each stopped by the red spear. "GUILD MASTER ESCAL! YOU HAVE APPOINTMENTS TO ATTEND TOO!" Miss Claire came barging in.If you discover this tale on Amazon, be aware that it has been stolen. Please report the violation.

    "Miss, uhh... Claire¡­ I uhh got carried away by the fight."

    "NO EXCUSES!" Miss Claire dragged Escal out. A lean figure in dark crimson armor, with a few white highlights, stepped in, "Zander, you bastard, you are back. That dragon was a hard kill, kid, do I know you?" the armored man looked up.

    "No, I don''t think so."

    "Calcifer," Zander spoke

    "You look like someone I''ve seen, just can''t recall where." the crimson knight shrugged, "Eh, you got some skills though, good match."

    Calcifer stepped in, "Watch that bloodlust, my spear reacts to that." stepping back, and looking to the side, "From what I watched, I think you passed."

    Miss claire walked back in, "Scythe you passed with flying colors. Escal would not stop."

    "I''m sorry for taking him away from work."

    "You don''t need to apologize on his behalf. You are just a kid, with a Guild Rank, A-nine."

    "I don''t understand." Scythe said

    "You didn''t teach him anything about the guild?" Claire looked at Zander, "The guild has different ranks for letting people take on missions." Claire started to talk for a while.

    E and F rank guard the walls, and with hunting each rank can hunt anything, but are strongly recommended for goblins and rats. D and C ranks are short-range patrols around the city and at night, for hunting, Kobolds and undead. B and A ranks, guard high-level politicians, drakes, and wyverns. And S rank, are allowed to do almost anything, but even so, dragons are a difficult hunt for any party. "... I think that covers everything. Any questions Scythe?" Claire asked finishing up her explanation.

    "No, none yet."

    "Even though you have an A-Rank, don''t hunt drakes or wyverns until you get a lay of the land. This is the north, there are so many mountains here and even deeper crevices."

    "Thanks," Scythe turned to Zander, "Should I start with goblins then?"

    "I would say yes, but you can easily take care of those, especially with that fire magic."

    "HE''S A MAGE!" Astela gasped, "that has to be wyvern shit."

    "I can do some little magic," Scythe waved his hand like the memory, and a soft yellow flame appeared.

    "Well it was way bigger than that," Zander said, "It was almost at Liziala''s level."

    "He knows Conflagration?" Astela asked

    "No, it''s just a basic fire spell, Fire." Scythe answered.

    "You had me fooled," Astela spoke.

    "And then there were more unknowns." Calcifer commented.

    "Cal, that was uncalled for." Zander spoke, "he is just a kid."

    "I know, we need a chance to talk soon, just the two of us." Calcifer said, "Certain things have come to light."

    "Thanks." Zander looked down, "Astela, stay here with Scythe and explore the town, Cal and I are heading back to the castle."

    "Can do," Astela said.

    The party split up, Astela and Scythe walked into the front, looking for a relatively new party to adventuring. "When on a hunt, it''s good to have people with specific jobs, both of us are middle guards, Escal and Zander are vanguard tanks. The person my brother mentioned, Liziala, is a mage she will be in the middle of the formation."

    "But what about side attacks?" Scythe asked

    "Those¡­ It''s why you want faster fighters or even Rangers. To react to those."

    Hours passed, Scythe and Astela chatted for most of it. "Well, I don''t think there is anyone new today, except for you. We should leave, it''s midday now."

    "Okay." Scythe stood up, and felt a hand on his back, Looking behind him it was a little girl. "Hey, are you okay?" Scythe asked

    "Who are you talking-- Oh, hey." Astela turned around.

    "Are you lost?" Scythe asked.

    "I don''t know." The girl said, "I can''t find mom."

    "Would you like help to find her?"

    "Mmhmm." The girl rubbed her eyes.

    "Well let''s start looking, should we ask Claire?" Scythe looked at Astela.

    Astela nodded, Scythe spoke to the young girl, "We are going to that nice lady over there, would you like to come with us?"

    "Yeah."

    Walking over to Claire, Scythe asked "Hey Claire, do you know her mom?"

    Claire looked down at the girl, and signaled Scythe to move a little closer, "Her mom¡­ Ifera Serao''ryan has been missing for a while now, we don''t know where she is. Just that she left for a hunting quest a half month ago, the town she went to is half a day away. She is assumed to be dead."

    Scythe froze after hearing that. "What was her rank?" Astela asked.

    "A D class, she just got on her feet, I think she went after a goblin hunt solo. You should bring the girl to the church near the wall, the people there are kind."

    "Thank you," Astela said, "Scythe lets go."

    "What mission did she take?" Scythe suddenly spoke, "She might still be alive."

    "It''s low but possible," Claire stepped back for a moment, "here, this is the quest, I wish you the best. And bring this amulet with you"

    "Thank you, after we bring her there, let''s go and take care of the mission Astela." Scythe stopped, "Wait what is this amulet?"

    "It''ll track your kills, so if you do a mission, it''ll track that you did it."

    "Thanks."

    "Let me send a message to my brother, then we will go."

    Astela left the message with Claire, bringing the girl to the church, Scythe seemed rushed. Almost panicked. By early afternoon, Scythe and Astela got on horses and started riding at a fast pace.

 Chapter Six

    By the time they reached the town, it was well after nightfall, it was night, not even the moons were seen. After getting to the town and leaving the horses with the stable master. Scythe was ready to keep running. Until Astela grabbed his shoulder, "Scythe if you go in blind like this, you could get yourself killed."

    "I¡­ I''m sorry, I just couldn''t stay still after that. I had to do something. Anything."

    "Getting killed would make things worse, you can''t just run on your own. You are a representative of the Guild."

    "I''m sorry."

    "Sorry might fix it now, but when blood has been spilled, sorries won''t cut it."

    "I¡­ I understand."

    "Now, let''s get to an Inn for the night."

    "But¡­"

    "No but''s."

    "Please let me finish."

    "Fine, you were saying?"

    "I¡­ can''t explain it, but I just have this sick sense of something, I want to go now. Because if we go in the morning, I think she will be dead."

    Astela stood back a step, "How much do you trust your gut?"

    "It''s gotten me here." Scythe answer

    "Let''s go then after we grab torches."

    "No need," Scythe waved his hand, the flame appeared again, "I can make light with this."

    "What do you do when you run out of magic?"

    "Run out? That can happen?" Scythe asked, "I''ve managed to keep myself warm in the winters before."

    "We should probably get going now."

    Looking at the ground for tracks, Scythe slowly found the path the goblins take, seeing a bigger footstep than the rest, Scythe asked, "Hey do you know this track, It''s like a goblin''s but much larger."

    "How much larger," Astela kept standing, with her guard up.

    "About twice, long nails as well."

    "Must be a greater goblin. Scythe, this might be beyond two people."

    "Then what about making a distraction? Like starting a fire."

    "What?"

    "Starting a fire?"

    "I heard you, No, we are not starting a fire."

    Rustling was heard in the underbrush. "... See I told you, I saw someone." a person pushed through, with rabbit ears.

    Astela grabbed her blade, "Who are you?"

    "We''re not bad people, we''re adventurers," the first one put her hands up in surrender, "I''m Rank D, Liz, my friend here is also Rank D, her name is¡­"

    "Reven," The woman had wolf-like ears, "Our third member was taken captive, we were hiding."

    "Astela, what should we do," Scythe stood up.

    "Is your partner human, or a demi, like yourselves?" Astela asked.

    "Oh. she''s a demi, but she did adopt a human kid."

    "That leaves some gaps." Astela pondered, "How long has she been captured?"If you discover this tale on Amazon, be aware that it has been unlawfully taken from Royal Road. Please report it.

    "Under a week, it took a week to find the goblin camp." Liz answered, "It''s an old fortress, not even the village knew it was there."

    Astela became more serious, "What was the styling? Stonework? And designs?"

    "Uhh, everything was pretty eroded, maybe there is something inside. We didn''t get close after Ifera was captured."

    "We are here to get her, her child is still in the city." Astela said, "We just saw some greater goblin tracks, what are your positions?"

    "I''m an archer," Liz jumped lightly.

    "Swordswoman," Reven said

    "And we are both sword users, but he has magic." Astela pointed at Scythe with her thumb.

    "But not much." Scythe added, "I can do basic elemental magic, but nothing big."

    "So lead us to the castle. We will make a plan from there."

    Walking in the night, the moons rose to illuminate the path. After a time, the castle came into sight, and you could see small lights and movement inside. Astela broke the silence, "Do you know where she was taken?"

    "I don''t." Liz said, "They came at us from all sides. I made a mistake, Ifera¡­ pulled me out, and told both of us to run."

    "If she isn''t dead, then it''s the other thing."

    "Yeah, it''s a slave¡­"

    That word somehow angered Scythe, who then had an idea, "I''ll charge in first, I''ll make as much noise as possible. You three sneak in."

    "Scythe that is beyond reckless." Astela rose her voice.

    "It''ll work, I''ve done this before."

    "What the hell do you mean?" Astela, "You are just a child."

    "I''m not a child, you don''t know half the things I''ve done. I know this will work, if it''s worked on humans, it''ll work on goblins."

    "Scythe, you are telling me more when we get back. What do you two think?"

    "I could help him." Liz suggested, "I would stay hidden until I have clean shots."

    "No the chance of you getting killed is too high, you stay with those two. You all know the plan." Scythe stood up, "I''m going now, wait for a few minutes before sneaking in."

    Before anyone could stop Scythe, he ran in.

    Killing the four goblins at the gate with ease, Scythe was inside. "Little boy, are you trying to die?" Phae asked, "Because if so, I will stop you. You are more valuable to me than the other three."

    "I don''t care, I have to do something."

    "You recall your mother''s lessons on magic, right?"

    "Yes."

    Phae pulled out her sword and handed it to Scythe, "As you control magic, do the same around the blade."

    Scythe stood still, focusing on magic. A dark liquid-like aura appeared around the blade. "This magic is in a way, an extension of the sword as you swing, it will spread outward cutting enemies beyond the blades reach."

    Scythe swung against the wall, the blade never connected, but a gouge was still made. "That is useful."

    "I know, now this should help you live a little longer."

    "Thanks."

    "Don''t thank me. Not yet."

    Scythe charged back in, most of the goblins didn''t even notice him until he started killing them. Swarms of them came running out. Each slice killed at least three, eventually, it slowed but the greater goblins started to come out. Each greater goblin had iron armor, most of it didn''t fit them. "HUMAN. YOU HAVE KILLED MANY OF US. NOW YOU TOO SHALL DIE." the largest goblin shouted.

    In almost a berserk state, Scythe didn''t hear a word. And only saw threats. His body launched seemingly on its own. By the time the greater goblins were mostly defeated, the goblins wouldn''t even get near Scythe, and when they had a chance, they ran out into the world but didn''t get far, before getting killed. Looking at the sky, it seemed brighter but the ground in the main area was covered in blood splatter.

    After resting for a moment, Scythe entered the fortress. Scythe saw old artworks torn and ripped. The smell was terrible, sweat, blood, and shit, and as Scythe walked in the halls the smells only grew, until a different scent started building.

    Following the unfamiliar odor, Scythe turned through halls. After reaching the largest hall, Scythe knew what the smell was after he pushed the door open. It was a sickly sweet smell, permeated with iron and vomit. Seeing at least thirty different women of all ages bound and gagged. Scythe started cutting them free, one of the women with iron bangles kicked Scythe in the face. Making a deep cut, moving away from her, Scythe freed the others then untied her. Seventeen women were still alive, the rest were dead. Some mutilated beyond recognition.

    After Scythe left that room, he prepared his magic. "Ignition." Scythe chanted. Tossing the spell in and closing the door. You could feel the explosion reverberate through the halls. After the entire group left the hall, Scythe cast another spell. Burning the previous hall. Repeating this until they were in the main area. Astela came running in through the main gate, "What the hell are you doing!?"

    "Burning trash." Scythe watched the flames with disgust.

    "That castle is a piece of history, there could be thousand-year-old documents in there." Astela was livid.

    "This place deserves to remain lost to history." Scythe turned away, starting to walk out.

    One of the women went up to Scythe, "Thank you for saving us. We all mean that. Just some of us are still scared." the woman thanked, "Oh my name is Ifera, I do have partners somewhere in the woods."

    "IFERA," Liz came running in, arms out, "It''s so good that you are still alive. This man, Scythe, had the idea that saved you."

    Ifera looked at Scythe, "Thank you, I don''t know how to pay you back."

    Scythe looked past the rising smoke, red dawn was here. "Don''t thank me, my hands are covered in blood."

    It was then, when everyone realized all the goblins were dead, and around them in that area. A few of the women collapsed and balled up. Trying to protect themselves. They were afraid, that if the man that saved them, was worse than the goblins.

 Chapter Seven

    At the closest river, Scythe was washing up, but the blood wouldn''t seem to leave. No matter how hard he scrubbed. "Hey, you decent." A voice shouted from behind a rock

    Looking at himself he had pants on, but no shirt. "Yeah, I''m decent." Scythe yelled back.

    It was Ifera, "I thought you could use this." Ifera tossed a small object.

    Catching it, it almost slipped out of Scythe''s hands. "What is it?"

    "It''s soap. I had some in my travel bag. I thought you would rather smell of soap than a goblin. Oh and everyone else is finishing up. So you might want to hurry."

    "Thanks," Scythe stood up, seeing Ifera''s golden fluffy hair and tail, "Thanks again for the soap."

    "No worries. It''s the least I can do to thank you." Ifera walked away.

    "Looks like someone has a little crush," Phae commented

    "Not now."

    "If not now, when?"

    "Just not now, maybe tonight when we get back."

    "I''ll hold you to that, well talk to you then." Phae dissipated

    Back in the silence of the stream, Scythe continued to clean. The soap helps scrub the blood off.

    Walking onto the path, everyone was waiting for Scythe. Astela was still angry from the previous night. Everyone walked in silence until they reached the town.

    The group split in two, one was staying in town, the other returning to the city.

    Starting the ride back, everyone was already tired. So the riding went slow. Scythe was leading until Ifera joined him at the front. "Since we all have our own story, I was wondering how you got those scars. Do you mind sharing?" Ifera asked

    "It''s a long story."

    "At the pace we are going, it seems we have nothing but time."

    "Well¡­" Scythe started talking. The sun is moving faster than the riders.

    By late afternoon the city only then came into sight. Stopping to give the horses some rest, everyone decided just to camp there for the night. "You have quite the history," Ifrea commented, "I was a slave once too, I managed to buy my freedom."

    "I still only sleep a few hours a night," Scythe said while making a campfire, "... does it get better?"

    "Eventually. But that road changes for each of us."

    Scythe giggled a little.

    "What? Did I say something funny?"

    "Well it wasn''t funny, you just sounded like one of my moms."

    "Really. Well, I''m sure I never gave birth to a white-haired kid." Ifera said.

    "I¡­ Uhh¡­" Scythe blushed

    "Well, that''s new." Ifera sat next to Scythe, "I can''t wait to see my daughter. I feel like a failure."If you stumble upon this narrative on Amazon, be aware that it has been stolen from Royal Road. Please report it.

    "Why''s that?"

    "Well, you shared a bit of your life, Now I kinda think it''s my turn. As I said earlier I was a slave, but my master was kind. She never forced me to do anything I didn''t want too. Eventually, she became sick. I wanted to help her. So I saved what little money I earned to get her medicine. When I gave her the medicine she grabbed my slave contract and gave it to me. She said my mother wanted a good life for me. She passed away only a few days later. The medicine gave her a few more days." Ifera brought her knees to her face, "I miss her, but I miss my daughter too."

    "Thanks for sharing that." Scythe spoke while standing up, "I should help with dinner, could you lend a hand?"

    "Oh yeah, for sure." Ifera stood up.

    Ifera and Scythe worked in tandem. Cooking up a meal with a savory aroma, but was light. "Now if I only had some ginger or even lemongrass." Scythe scratched his temple. "But it should stay light."

    "Scythe¡­ after you are done. We need to talk." Astela walked up.

    "Fine. Ifera, you got it from here?" Scythe asked.

    "Hmm, yeah I got it."

    Walking a little distance away, Astela asked, "So why did you burn that fort? That, and how did you kill all of those goblins so fast? I stopped counting after sixty, there were at least a hundred more dead."

    "With my sword."

    "No shit, smartass." Astela paced, "the one magic I know that could do that, is only a legend. One with a bloody tale."

    "Well then, enlighten me," Scythe snarked.

    "A demon that wanted to consume the world in black fire, until the twin goddesses came and defeated her. Her power was said to look like black fog, and it collected around her blade. She could reach people behind walls of men, cutting them all in half. Without effort. The bodies of those goblins, give me the same vibes as those stories."

    "Well, they are dead. So why does it matter?"

    "Hell happened to you. Just yesterday you were a kind kid. Now the only way I know it''s you is because of that scar." Astela pointed to his cheek.

    "You do know that there are creatures that can copy faces and voices."

    "I should add that attitude as well." Astela was borderline livid.

    "So are you going to keep complaining about what I did? Or are we going to eat?" Scythe asked

    "This isn''t over. Not in the slightest." Astela walked away

    After Astela was out of earshot scythe mocked her, "this isn''t over. Who fucking cares." Scythe laid down, looking up at the stars.

    After a little time passed, someone walked close. "Hey the rest of us are going to bed. Do you need to sleep or are you good?"

    "I''m fine." Scythe jumped to his feet, stumbling slightly.

    "You look like shit," Ifera spoke.

    "I''ll be fine. I just feel like I don''t know anything anymore. Too much has happened in the last few days. I''m just lost."

    "Well if you need to talk. You need only ask."

    "Thanks, and I''ll take the first watch." Scythe followed Ifera back to camp.

    Sitting next to the fire, Scythe practiced his magic to pass the time. Getting a floating fire to go between his fingers, weaving back and forth. Then an idea struck spread the aura over his hand. Just like the blade. It took some time to get it to form but the aura behaved differently. Scythe reached the grab a log, the dark aura launched out and grabbed it. Then tossed it onto the fire, causing embers to fly up. "That worked differently." Scythe said to himself.

    "It behaves differently depending on what it is asked to do. Put it on a sword, it will slice. A spear, it will pierce. A bow, it will rain arrows. And on your own body, it will extend your reach. Even get used as a weapon. That was what I was going to teach you tonight. But it seems your experimentation was faster than I expected."

    "What''s your favorite weapon to use?"

    "Sword. But I did use martial arts for a while. Ohh that was fun. Punching a dragon and breaking its bones." Phae threw a few punches in the air, "but you seem to want to ask something else."

    "Yeah. With what Astela said how much have I changed?"

    "For one, you use my power surprisingly well, but you don''t seem to have the oomph behind it." Phae said, "it''s like something is missing. But back on topic, you did see a lot of women that were abused by goblins. If that didn''t change someone, I would be concerned."

    "Was what I did right?"

    "We all ask ourselves that question. But let me ask you this if a hungry cat kills a mouse, should the cat feel bad."

    "No, it''s hungry."

    "What if the mouse was looking for the food itself?"

    "I don''t know how to answer."

    "Exactly, you can''t know the answer. When the question is nature itself. It is hard to answer the question of what is right and wrong. But in my opinion, what you did was right, burning the bodies. That freed their souls."

    "I feel a little better. Thanks, Phae."

    "Don''t worry about it." Phae sat down, watching the embers fly. Flickering in the wind, and dying out. "Freedom can be both, a blessing and a curse." Phae breathed before she disappeared herself.

 Chapter Eight

    Still awake in the morning. Scythe started making breakfast. The smell roused the rest from their tents. Everyone sat around the fire to warm up. After breakfast, Liz and Reven helped clean and pack up. Readying the horses, Astela walked up to Scythe, "I wanted to apologize for last night. I was wrong with what I said."

    Scythe didn''t even stop his work, "ehh."

    "Can I get more than an ehh, I crossed a line. I want to try making it up to you."

    "What done is done." Scythe said.

    "Let me finish that," Astela offered, "You even did the night watch by yourself."

    "Fine." Scythe stepped back, letting Astela start the work, but not saying he already finished the work. Walking away to help with other things.

    Finally getting back to the city, everyone went their separate ways, except for Scythe, Astela, Liz, Reven, and Ifera. Heading to the church they left Ifera''s child. Seeing her child, Ifera picked her up and twirled. "Thank you. Thank you for bringing me back home."

    "No worries." Scythe said, then bringing a hand to his face pointing at the large scab "I just want to find a healer for this."

    "I know a great healer, she is amazing with a needle, she could suture it clean."

    "Sure, how far is it."

    "Just down the road. It''s next door." Ifera said, "Come on Aura. we are going to see auntie."

    "Big auntie? Yayy!" Aura had a lot of energy.

    "Thank you, mother, for watching over her."

    "You need not worry. We care for all children." the Mother spoke softly.

    "Once more, thank you." Ifera said, "Scythe let''s mosey over then."

    "Sure. You know the way, why don''t you lead." Scythe suggested.

    "I can do that," Ifera said.

    Walking down the roads, you could see the vast majority of the people living in this part of town, were demi. Some of the cloth was a surprising silver color. "Who made those clothes. They look great?" Astela asked, "I kinda want my own."

    "I''m sure Flora might have some in your size," Ifera said.

    "If it''s Auntie, she could make it in an hour." Aura spoke

    "Really? That''s fast." Astela gasped

    "Well, we''re here," Ifera said. The building was larger than the rest, even the door was large. Ifera knocked, and entered, "Flora!? Are you home."

    "Ifera, and guests, just a moment." A massive spider-like body came down elegantly from the ceiling, her eight legs landing without a noise, "oh little Aura. It''s been some time."

    "Auntie," Aura ran into Flora''s arms.

    "So what brings you here today? It seems not just for a visit?" Flora asked

    "He. Sorry, Scythe, saved my life. He got hurt, I was wondering if you could fix it up. Also, Astela love''s your clothing, do you have any in her size."Stolen novel; please report.

    Flora moved closer to Scythe, "The cut is deep and ragged, a blunt object made the tear, maybe a dull piece of iron. I can suture it, but there will be a scar." Flora moved to Astela, "I don''t disclose sizes, but I think I have a few items in your size."

    "What do I owe you?" Astela asked

    "Oh don''t worry about that. When nobody is here, I just make stuff, hats, gloves, coats, and dresses." Flora chatted, then made a motion for Scythe to move closer, "come here, I can''t stitch you up if you stand so far away."

    "Oh okay." Scythe moved closer. And sat next to Flora.

    Occasionally wincing at the pain, "it makes it harder if you move like that." Flora spoke, stitching the wound shut, "Just a few more."

    Scythe sat still, for about another minute. "And done." Flora seemed proud of herself, "I''d say that looks great, now that''s finished, Astela dear, could you follow me?"

    "Sure." Astela followed.

    "Well, I didn''t expect that," Ifera spoke.

    "What?"

    "Most people tend to be scared of the Spider demi''s" Ifera informed, "the eight legs and all."

    "I ran into one before. She was kind and small. She knitted some bandages for me and my team. It saved my life."

    "Team? You didn''t mention that before."

    "I¡­ I was used in battle. I''m a cannon fodder slave."

    "I don''t know how to respond to that." Ifera was honest

    "Yeah, even Zander had that reaction."

    "Zander¡­ where do I know that name? And Astela¡­ you know the king?" Ifera asked

    "Yeah, he is my adoptive father." Scythe stood up, as Flora left the little room she and Astela went into.

    "Astela will follow shortly, she is just changing." Flora looked at the stitches, "Yep they look good. I realized I never asked, Scythe would you like a jacket or something?"

    "Uhh sure. Is there anything I can do for you?"

    "Okay, follow me." Flora led Scythe into a different room, "I have to say this, Scythe, Luna misses you greatly."

    "I¡­ I know."

    "If you know, please go back to her. It hurts me to see her like that. Sitting and watching the gate, waiting for you to return."

    "I didn''t know." Scythe looked down

    "I want you to write a letter, saying you are okay and alive, you don''t need to say where you are. Just that you are alive, and you plan to return eventually."

    "I can do that."

    "Also Sol knows you made a contract with Phae. she wanted me to give you this, along with a message." Flora handed over a large package wrapped in spider silk, with a letter on it. The letter read

    Hello Scythe.

    I do not know when or where you will get this, but it is in my hopes that you get it sooner.

    There are many things we, Luna and I have hidden from you. We thought to protect you, but if you deny fate, you can make things worse. So in the attempt to make fate change once more, I have asked Flora to bring you Fenriin.

    Fenriin is a shield I took from Phae, there are eight in total, two are in the package. I ask that you keep yourself safe and return home, I miss you. I miss all your little questions. Even though I seemed annoyed, I did like them.

    I do not know how fate has treated you, but I still hope you have that childish heart. And innocent laugh.

    Luna blames herself. Aurora went after you. Irgo left. And to let you know when I wrote this, the cherry blossoms bloomed early, on the second of spring, year 736.

    If fate has been cruel, you were named on the fifteenth of winter, year 724. This might not make sense if it''s been more years.

    Please come home.

    Sol

    Scythe held back the tears, "How many years ago were you given this?"

    Flora had a look on her face, one that implied the answer, "Seven years ago."

    "They must think I''m dead by now." Scythe let the tears flow, "I didn''t know that much time passed already. I thought it was maybe three or four years, but seven¡­"

    "I''ll give you some space." Flora left the room.

    Scythe sat reading and rereading the letter. Every word is like a knife in the gut. Eventually, Scythe stood up and wiped his face. Everyone was waiting at the door frame, Scythe walked through. The letter is still in hand. "I''m going to head out now, I need some time. Flora?"

    "Yes." Flora looked at Scythe

    "Thank you for telling me, and for this." Scythe held up the package. Before anyone else said anything, Scythe left.

    Walking through the roads felt endless, filled with people each living their own lives. Scythe was crowded but felt void. Just another face in the endless streams of people. These people were happy. Scythe walked and walked. Looking over the great wall, time almost slipping away. What is real? What is fiction? Questions like that filled Scythe''s head. It wasn''t orders or even mundane days. He had absolute freedom, to do whatever he wanted. A voice broke his thoughts, "Let''s head home Scythe." Looking at the person, Scythe saw his childhood friend, Aurora. Blinking a few times. It was Astela reaching out a hand, "you need some rest. You''ve had a busy few days."

    Scythe followed without speaking, still partly lost in his head. Sleep would not come easy.

 Chapter Nine

    The next morning Scythe awoke after a rough night of sleep. Just staying in bed, until the maids came in to clean. Scythe got up and wandered the halls, Looking at each painting. Seeing the small details, the strokes of the brush, the slow gradients of color, the different styles of each artist.

    After he was done with that he went into the library and started to read anything that sounded interesting. Placing the books back after a quick look through. Some he read while standing. Eventually, he was bored of that.

    Now in the viewing area, he watched the guards train, and repeat drills, over and over. After a while, it turned into sparring, each pair taking turns, fighting to first kill strike.

    Returning to his room, Zander was outside, "Scythe."

    Scythe didn''t lookup.

    "Scythe look at me, please? I don''t want to beg." Zander asked

    "What?" Scythe looked up

    "There is someone here to see you, she is waiting inside."

    "Who is it?"

    "Her name is Ifera, she said you saved her from goblins."

    "I did, but more than thirteen others died."

    "You still saved seventeen."

    "I can take it from here," Scythe entered the room.

    Ifera was pacing, "Scythe you''re back."

    "Well I''m here."

    "After yesterday¡­ I didn''t mean for that to happen. I wanted to thank you, but I just made things worse."

    "You are not at fault." Scythe spoke, "I just don''t know how to face my parents after this."

    "I don''t have an answer for you." Ifera said, moving closer to Scythe, "myself, Liz, and Reven, are going to take a mission, we wanted to ask you, if you would like to join us?"

    Scythe paused for a moment, "sure where too?"

    "Gooselight Mountain, we are hunting kobolds in a cave."

    "I can help with that." Scythe seemed to gain some energy back

    "Really, that''s good. We are leaving in three days, it''ll be a four day trip."

    "But after what happened, do you want to continue so soon?"

    "If I do nothing, I''ll just get stuck in a gutter, I want to keep moving."

    "Okay."

    "Well then, see you in three days in front of the guild." Ifera had a bounce to her step.

    "Yep, see you then." Scythe followed her out of his room. Zander led her to the gate. After that Scythe was excited about doing more things. "What should I bring?" Scythe started thinking, "I should check if the library has any books on kobolds."

    "You get one visit from quite the nice lady, and you perk up, like this *snaps*. People might get a different idea about you."

    "Who really cares."This novel''s true home is a different platform. Support the author by finding it there.

    "Well, it''s time to practice, this time. Use the blades of Fenriin." Phae ordered

    "Okay," Scythe''s energy seemed to return in full.

    Scythe practiced and practiced. When the maids told him dinner was about to be served. Scythe joined in, eating his fill. Then after Scythe slept well from being so tired.

    Scythe''s pattern in the next few days was to eat, practice, read, and sleep. By the time the day arrived, Scythe was in a better mood. But something lingered on his mind, like a bad aftertaste.

    Scythe reported to the guild about his first mission, Claire was surprised about the number of kills the stone recorded. And gave Scythe the next up stone they had. Finalizing his gear, Scythe stayed near the guild. Waiting.

    Ifera showed up alone in a dress, walking up to Scythe, "You ready?"

    "Yeah, where is Liz and Reven?"

    Ifera had a look, "I kinda lied about the mission, I wanted us to hang out. I also wanted to get you back. Better than what happened."

    "Oh¡­ Oh, I''m sorry, I''m just a little dense sometimes." Scythe said

    "Well, anywhere you want to go?"

    "The gardens are a nice place," Scythe picked up on the plan.

    "The gardens, sure." Ifera said, "Well shall we?"

    Walking next to each other, Ifera informed Scythe about all aspects of the city. The day seemed to race by, and before they knew it, it was night. "This was fun, I''m glad you agreed. I know I lied a little."

    "It was a nice change of pace." Scythe replied, "it was good to learn about the city."

    "Your welcome."

    "So what now? We walked across town, what should we do?" Scythe asked.

    "Why don''t I cook you dinner, you needn''t help."

    "I¡­ uh sure." Scythe blushed a little

    "I know your nineteen, but you still seem like a kid sometimes." Ifera laughed a little.

    "Yeah," Scythe played with his hair

    "Since it''s the first time you will visit my home, I can lead you there."

    "Okay¡­"

    "SOMEONE HELP!" a voice spilt the silence, before a blood-curdling scream

    Scythe looked around, trying to find the voice. "Where was that from?"

    "Look down there," Ifera pointed outside the gate, in the last lights of the day, you could see the blood splatter. Seconds later, bells started ringing, once means raid, twice means monsters and three times. "A dragon, what is a dragon doing here?"

    Scythe froze.

    "Scythe we need to run. We can''t fight a dragon." Ifera pulled on Scythe, who didn''t budge an inch. Turning around, Ifera saw the dragon looking right at them. A deep growl, and the dragon pointed at Scythe, "You. Come with me."

    Scythe stayed still.

    "Or do I raze this small town, I know you heard my calls. In this lesser tongue."

    "Scythe how do you know a dragon?" Ifera asked

    "I don''t know."

    "You''re moving too slow," The dragon grabbed Scythe, in a blink of an eye.

    The dragon took off flying at high speed, still held in it''s claws. Scythe watched the city fade from sight. "Where are you taking me?" Scythe yelled.

    The dragon spoke, "I was asked to find your scent, and if I found you. Well she left that one open."

    "But who asked you?"

    "A golden haired fox, she asked me a few days ago. And I finally got wind of your scent."

    "How."

    "Just shut up, you''ll bite your tongue." Scythe went silent for the rest of the flight.

    Landing, in an unfamiliar place, a massive golden fox lay sleeping. Hearing the wing beats it awoke. "I found your person." the dragon dropped Scythe in front of the fox. "Now your promise to turn me human."

    "Done." the fox spoke without moving its mouth, the dragon transformed into a human, cheering it left.

    The fox turned to face Scythe, and shrunk into a human size. "It''s been quite some time¡­ Scythe."

    "Sol. Why did you ask a dragon to get me?"

    "I had no luck finding you. Seven years, I searched everywhere." Sol said, "Luna doesn''t know I found you."

    "If you couldn''t find me for a few years. How did you know where I was?"

    "The letter and Fenriin. It was an off chance to get to you, but it''s worth the shot." Sol said, "There was magic in the letter, to let me know when it was opened, and where."

    "It''s good to see you," Scythe said, "How¡­ How is Luna?"

    "Depressed, so Phae, is he learning?"

    "He is. Quite well in fact."

    "Good."

    "What? You take me from a city with a dragon, and basically seem not interested in me. We haven''t seen each other in years."

    "We¡­ I thought you were dead until four days ago. I came to that after I lost your scent in a river. Luna still hopes you are alive. Do you know how much it hurts to watch her just sit there."

    "I''m sorry."

    "Sorries don''t cut it," Sol snarled, "you left without warning, a note or anything. Just Aurora covered in blood, and Phae missing. I''m trying not to beat you here now."

    Scythe looked down.

    "But I won''t, I''m just glad to see you are alive, I won''t make you do anything," Sol opened a portal, "This will bring us home. Luna misses you the most. I won''t force you to go through, but please, ease her suffering."

    "I''ll come home, but I also have a home out in this world too. I made new friends."

    "I understand, come on, let''s go."

    From a barren mountain, to lush green forest, Scythe remembered the smell. This was home.

 Chapter ten

    Walking up the road to home, each step was heavier than the last. Sol entered the gate first. After a moment Scythe followed, seeing Luna in a daze, just watching the gate. An untouched plate of food next to her. "That is what I have dealt with. You should go wake her up."

    "Okay." Scythe walked up, "Hey mom, I''m home."

    Luna''s eyes became clear, she looked at Scythe, and instantly hugged him. "It''s been so long. Why did you leave like that?" Luna asked

    "I''ll explain why. I''m just happy to be home."

    "It''s good to have you home, Sol, Scythe''s home."

    "I know." Sol had one of the rare few smiles she showed.

    Luna and Scythe caught up. Sol made dinner. Everyone chatted for a while. Eventually, Luna fell asleep, and Sol brought her to bed. When she returned, she pulled out a silver liquor bottle. "Thank you. I feel this was hardest on you." Sol poured herself and Scythe a drink, "Now that you are an adult. Do you have any questions for me?"

    "I don''t know. Where is Aurora?"

    "She last said, she was heading west. Deeper into the dragon lands. I do hope she is safe." Sol took a sip.

    "Same here. Am I your kid? Uh I mean, did either you or Luna give birth to me?"

    "No, neither of us gave birth to you." Sol spoke, "You came to us one night in a basket, with that necklace you are wearing. And a letter. I can''t recall where the letter is at the moment."

    "Do you know my real parents?"

    "I''m sorry I don''t. But if I remember right. It said something about you having a sister. That and, they saw your fate. They said they couldn''t watch a child go through that much pain." Sol took another sip, "I poured you a drink so I''m not the only one drinking."

    "Ok," Scythe took a small sip, it was smooth and slightly sweet. Swallowing it, Scythe shivered.

    "Heh, you don''t drink much do you?"

    "No, this is my first."

    "Well. I''ve talked a lot, so what''s your story these last seven years?"

    "After I left¡­ I survived in the woods, using all the skills you, Luna, and Irgo taught me. Once I made it to the main road, I got captured¡­ and turned into a slave. My hands will never be clean from what I did. Those people. They didn''t deserve to die like animals." Scythe finished his drink in one go, "so many things happened, it was kill or be killed. I killed other slaves, to stay alive. Lena, Scar, Barem, Hiro, Suzy, and Dawn. Those are the names of the people I killed. I can never be forgiven for that. Zero and Ander, they could be called friends. But the day I escaped, they died."

    Sol refilled Scythe''s drink, "that¡­ this is¡­ fuck. I don''t have an answer for you."

    "Yeah, most people don''t." Scythe said

    "If it''s any help, we could make a grave for them." Sol suggested, "the weight of those names, will slowly wear you down. You could get stuck in a pit of depravity."

    "Thanks." Scythe took another sip, "so is the cave still here?"

    "Yes. Why would you want to go back there?"

    "I just want to look through it." Scythe answered

    "I''ll let you go." Sol refilled her drink, "Just know, neither of us cleaned up what happened then."

    "Thanks. Phae come out."

    Phae appeared and sat down, "What''s up?"

    "I want both of you to tell me your history." Scythe said, "even the parts you don''t want to tell me."

    "That''s a lot to go through," Sol answered

    "Yeah. at least, what, three maybe four thousand years." Phae said

    "That, thousands of years." Scythe pointed out, "only a few beings can live that long, are the both of you gods or something of the sort?"

    Phae burst out laughing, "Really, you ask that."

    "He doesn''t know about the higher dimensions," Sol covered her mouth.

    "What are the higher dimensions?" Scythe asked

    "That''s a long history, even longer than us," Phae said

    "Scythe, the thing we speak of. This realm is only a low-level dimension. There are things out there, that scare even me."

    "But you ordered a dragon around." Scythe said, "they listened to you like a dog."

    "Yes, because I am of the higher dimensions, there is nothing in this realm that can kill me, hurt maybe, but nothing can kill me."Ensure your favorite authors get the support they deserve. Read this novel on the original website.

    "I''m not following."

    "Let me do it," Phae stood over Scythe, touching each side of his head.

    Information flowed in. the higher dimensions were just like the world, but the concentration of magic was incomparable to the last. And each dimension higher had an even higher concentration of magic. So much so, everything was filled to the brim. Even the stones. And the beings that lived in each, all of the same species, but their strength was beyond this world. The best in a lower dimension might be average in the next. The higher you went, the bigger and stronger the creatures were. "Scythe, as you are now, you would not survive even a day in these higher dimensions. Especially not where we come from."

    "How. how is any of this possible?"

    "We might be gods in this realm, but what we consider a god. It is impossible to explain to you, without you experiencing it yourself. I can let out a bit of my aura, would you want me to do that?"

    "Yeah, I think I can handle it." Scythe answered

    Sol sighed, and gravity seemed to multiply many times over. Scythe''s body wouldn''t move. It happened so fast, Scythe thought did that even happen. "I¡­ I¡­"

    "That was just a sigh, do you have an idea if I wanted to kill how powerful that would be."

    "Won''t that wake up Luna?" Scythe asked

    "This little? No, it won''t" Sol finished her drink, and refilled her drink and Scythes, and poured another for Phae.

    "If things get that powerful, why don''t they rule this world?"

    "Would you care about an ant nest, that''s so far away, you could walk your entire life, and never get close?"

    "No, I would focus on other things." Scythe answered

    "And there is your answer." Sol spoke

    "Well she isn''t wrong," Phae added, "But I tried to rule this world, it did end badly."

    "So if you are that powerful Phae, why am I not stronger?"

    "Your body can''t handle the power. Yet." Phae said.

    "You would need to learn how to condense your magic, what were they called, inner-strength fighters, I believe. They train and meditate, focusing on improving their body. I know some things, but I was born on a high dimension, same as Luna." Sol said, "condensing and improving your magic is a long road."

    "How would one start?"

    "Let me go get my needles, your fonts are blocked. I can remove the blockage." Sol stood up, straightening her outfit, "I''ll be back momentarily."

    Sol left, and Phae leaned in. "This road you are asking about. How long do you think it is?"

    "If I didn''t hear the beginning I would think maybe thirty or forty years, to the peak. Now, I haven''t the slightest clue."

    "Good answer."

    "Got them," Sol said as she entered back in. "This will sound weird, take off your shirt and lay down on your back."

    "Okay." Scythe did as he was told.

    Sol placed 143 needles all over his body, "How are you?"

    "Fine, just hurts a little."

    "The pain is only starting. Do you want to continue?"

    "Yes."

    "Okay, I''m going to start putting my power into you. Try to feel it."

    "Can do."

    Scythe felt as if he was burning, but was ice cold at the same time. By the time it was over it was morning. "You okay Scythe?" Sol asked.

    "Yeah, just fine." Scythe jumped up, "maybe way lighter."

    "You are not lighter, just stronger."

    "I want to try fighting. Sol, want to go for a sparring match?"

    "No, I''m a little tired."

    "I can" Phae jumped up. "Give you a nice warmup."

    "Thanks."

    Both Scythe and Phae fought. Giving them all. Faster, snappier reactions. Scythe stayed on his feet better. "If my physical boost was this much, what''s the magic like?" Scythe pushed out his arm, "Ignite."

    The fireball that formed was the same size as usual, "That''s disappointing." Scythe threw the ball a distance. After it disappeared out of sight, it exploded, instantly sending a blast back. Shaking the area.

    Luna came running out, "What happened?"

    "I just did a little magic. I didn''t expect that." Scythe said

    "Sol awakened you huh." Luna rolled her eyes. "Anyone could tell you are already more powerful than most."

    "Yeah."

    "Well, what''s done is done." Luna sighed, "Well let''s start breakfast."

    After breakfast, Scythe went into the cave. Scythe recalled that day.

    "Come on Scy, let''s go." Aurora ran by

    A younger Scythe ran after her, "You know we shouldn''t be here."

    "Oh come on, they wouldn''t have anything dangerous here." Aurora stood proud.

    "But they said not to come here."

    "Come on, we won''t get hurt¡­" Aurora jumped down, the ground collapsed under both of them.

    Waking up in a daze, Scythe saw Aurora bleeding badly. More than Scythe could stop. "Help I need to get help." Scythe looked up, the light was barely there.

    "The other has awoken." a voice spoke, "If you need help, let''s make a deal."

    "What kind of deal?" Scythe asked, desperate to save Aurora.

    "A deal of power. You will receive my power, but will also bear the weight of it as well."

    "What¡­ What do I have to do?"

    "Walk into the black fire, look for a solid object, and pull it out."

    The young Scythe did exactly that.

    Back in the future. Scythe walked into the same part of the cave, where Phae was trapped. "It''s been a while, Jaspare," Phae spoke

    "So the demon has returned." the wall spoke

    "We both know I''m not a demon," Phae said

    "I wouldn''t care either way. Why are you back here?" Jaspare asked

    "Well, Scythe wanted to come back here." Phae informed, "I have no reason to be here."

    "Are you sure about that?" Jaspare asked another question

    "Well, I don''t think anything is here." Phae said

    "Your armor, your treasure. The map to that place." Jaspare spoke, "Are now of these important to you?"

    "They are not needed. Not yet." Phae answered

    "I''ll leave the door unlocked." Jaspare went silent as a door formed in a solid stone wall. "Scythe, there are many things in there. One of them is the armor of Fenriin."

    "The armor? I thought there were only blades?"

    "The armor is the core. But as your strength is still in this realm, you are unable to use it."

    "So when might I be able to use it?"

    "When you can walk into higher dimensions, and learned pretty much everything from me." Phae answered, "Would you like to see it?"

    "Yeah, if it''s that powerful."

    Phae walked over and opened the door, the concentration of magic was higher than anything Scythe had ever felt. "Ahh, Now I feel like I can breathe. The magic in this place is too low." Phae seemed to relax.

    Scythe walked in, there were countless treasures. Zander had a small amount in comparison to this place. Phae took a quick look around, "Two blades are missing."

    "How do you know two are missing when I can easily see a hundred?"

    "These two are special, other than Fenriin, and my blade. I made them from a higher dimension''s dragon bone. They were some of the best blades I have ever used, but both are damaged because of my fight with Luna and Sol." Phae paused for a moment, "She didn''t take them to repair them did she?"

    "I''m not following."

    "Aurora. She might have taken the two blades. Wait where is the map." Phae started looking around, "Go into the back, Fenriin is there."

    "Okay," Scythe went into the back area, "Which one is Fenriin?" Each armor had a name, Ice silk robes, Phoenix Feather coat, Scythe walked by plenty of armors and clothing. "Ahh, here it is." Scythe said, finally finding Fenriin, the armor was solid. You couldn''t even see an open spot in the armor, except for the eye slit. It was tall, majority-black with silver accents, just like its blades. Seeing the armor, strangely relaxed Scythe. Like seeing an old friend.

 Chapter Eleven

    Walking back to the front, Phae had stopped looking. "Seems she took the map as well."

    "Map? What does it lead to?" Scythe asked

    "The Moonlight Dragon Forge, well as close as I got to finding it anyways." Phae answered, "it could, in theory, repair those two blades. If my blade gets damaged, we would need to get there somehow. As it was forged in dragon fire."

    "Well, your blade isn''t damaged, as you and Sol said, nothing here can kill you."

    "But we didn''t say it couldn''t hurt us." Phae added, "We may be powerful, but we are only mortal."

    "It still sounds strange hearing you say that."

    "Well myself, Sol and Luna, could get called young."

    "And that doesn''t help."

    "Yeah, so what did you think of Fenriin?"

    "I want to use it. But it felt familiar like I''ve seen it before." Scythe answer racking his memory.

    "That would be impossible. I''ve never shown you the armor before."

    "I''m not meaning here, but somewhere else." Scythe thought about it, "Like in a forge. Or was it a battle? Dreams can be weird."

    "Yeah, but unless your name is Hebaros, The Forge God, you didn''t make it," Phae said

    "Yeah, my name is Scythe." Scythe pointed out the obvious.

    "So what to do now? Oh yeah, those rings." Phae went over to a different area. "Good these are still here. Scythe come over here."

    Scythe walked over, now noticing how long Phae''s hair was, "What''s up?"

    "Do any of these rings take your fancy?" Phae asked, holding out a box of rings. Some of the rings were imbedded with jewels, but the one that called out to Scythe was a black ring, with a prismatic band going through it "I like this one."

    "What do you know about dimensional storage?"

    "It''s a little pocket dimension, accessed only by a key item." Scythe answered.

    "Do you know how to use it?"

    "I think so."

    "Just let me teach you." Phae taught Scythe, how to place items inside it, and pull them out. "So what now?"

    "Take Fenriin, everything else is staying here. If this world knew of half of these weapons, wars would be waged." Phae answered, "I''m sure you don''t want to see this land covered in ashes and blood."

    "Yeah, this is home. Besides, I think Sol wouldn''t let an army get anywhere near here. She ordered a dragon around, a bloody dragon."

    "Sol is like that." Phae nodded, "that dragon was basically a dog, it was kinda cute."This story has been taken without authorization. Report any sightings.

    "How could something that scary be cute?"

    "There are things, dark creatures, bred strong by man''s sins. Even shadows are daylight to them." Phae spoke, remembering her first time with one of these creatures, "I could go a thousand lifetimes without seeing another."

    Scythe''s eyes widened, "If they made you scared. I''m shit outta luck then."

    "The ones here¡­ I believe they are called Shadow Demons. Their strength is a scant comparison to the ones I know."

    "Well, I''ll be right back." Scythe left to get Fenriin.

    Returning to Phae and leaving, the stone door shut as if it never existed. Walking the slow path out, Scythe practiced his magic again. This time it was moving faster and more fluid. "You''ve gotten good at that." Phae broke the silence

    "It''s just a little thing," Scythe smiled, the flame also reacted, glowing a little brighter.

    "Keep at it. Any practice is progress."

    "Thanks," Scythe thanked, "Oh if you have tips don''t be afraid to share."

    "If I have anything, I''ll let you know," Phae answered.

    The path out was long and slow. Returning to the surface, Sol was waiting with Luna. "We need to talk about something," Luna spoke, something was amiss.

    "Sure, what is it?" Scythe asked

    "We know you won''t stay here." Sol answered, "So we thought of something. Luna and I can teleport back here whenever, so, we thought to explore the world. Kinda hoping to stay with you."

    "After everything, I know I need to move around. And it''s been a while, many things could have changed." Luna added

    "I don''t see an issue with it." Scythe said, "I can''t control what you two do. Though it would be nice seeing you two more."

    "We had roughly the same idea. So we should get you back to your other family." Sol said, "Hopefully nothing bad happens."

    "Yeah, not many people see dragons as pets. Honestly, they are scared of dragons." Scythe added.

    "I''ll make sure not to do that again. But the last time I was there, dragons were a common sight. Most knights had dragons to ride, and that happened because of the rise of the Black-Moon family." Sol talked,

    "what was the king''s name then?"

    "I don''t know." Scythe spoke.

    "Well, let''s get going." Sol opened a portal. Walking through, they were back in the barren mountain ranges. But something was wrong, hundreds if not thousands of birds flew overhead. Scythe was fearful, "I''m going to climb the mountain quick, stay here." Scythe ran up the short mountain, with his stronger legs it was a quick climb.

    Reaching the peak, the landscape just went on and on. Making anyone feel small. Scythe looked for small details. There were countless, small smoke plumes. Evidence that an army stayed there the night prior. And in the direction of the city, a much larger smoke cloud was seen. "No."

    "Scythe what is it?" Sol asked as she reached the peak herself.

    "War." Scythe spoke in a monotone voice.

    Luna reached the peak as Sol said, "Are you sure, war isn''t something that happens in a day."

    "I''m certain, that many bonfires are a sure sign of an army."

    "How can you be certain?" Luna asked.

    "When I¡­ when I was a slave, every time the army moved. There were campfires and roughly this many as well." Scythe answered, "We need to hurry."

    "I can take care of that." Sol quickly transformed into a giant golden fox, "I can get us there in a few moments."

    "Thank you." Scythe said as he climbed on.

    Floating across the sky, landing on only mountain peaks. Each landing was smooth. As the massive smoke cloud grew, so did Scythe''s fear. Landing at the closest peak, everyone climbed off. "No, why did I have to be right." Scythe fell to his knees. Seeing thousands of soldiers laying siege to the city. The main gate still holding strong. But catapults still flung boulders over the walls, many countered by magic.

    "I''m sorry Scythe." Sol touched his shoulder.

    "My life finally started getting better, now all of this. For all I care, Fate can go die in a nameless grave."

    "Scythe¡­" Luna spoke softly.

    "Don''t, not now." Scythe snapped, then a thought, "I''m going down there."

    "No don''t you''ll die." Luna pleaded, "I only just got you back, I don''t want to lose you again."

    Scythe stood up, lightening raging in the clouds. "Mom, Luna¡­ I only told Sol this, I didn''t want to hurt you. For the vast majority of my time out here, I was a slave. Only two years ago I was freed, at the cost of two of my closest friends. Some fuckers pissed off a dragon and used us as a distraction. They were both killed instantly, and I fell off a cliff."

    "That was who those people were." Sol spoke, "That was where I lost track of you."

    "Zander and Alicia saved me, now with my own freedom. I will return the favor." Scythe spoke confidently,

    "I have power, so why don''t I at least try to save them."

    "Scythe¡­" Luna started to cry, then wiped her tears, "Go. Do what you think is right."

    "Thank you." Scythe leaned forward and launched down the mountain.

 Chapter Twelve

    Quickly descending the mountain, Scythe held his blade at the ready. As he got closer, Scythe recognized the banner, it was the same army that he was a slave in. "Ignite," Scythe chanted, creating a much larger fireball, throwing it into a group of soldiers. Their screams alerted the rest of the division. Immediately turning around to face Scythe but by the time they looked, another fireball was on its way.

    Scythe ran through the smoke creating blast after blast, erasing all evidence of the soldiers. letting the smoke clear, Scythe stopped. There were at least a hundred soldiers all around him, but in their eyes was fear. "I know how you treat slaves, now you get the same treatment, and you are scared!" Scythe mocked.

    "The long lost sheep returns," A captain walked forward, "Don''t think I forgot about you, Scythe."

    "Still a captain, Seems you got the boot." Scythe spoke

    "All because of you," The captain got angry

    "It seems you at least got your teeth fixed," Scythe was angry, nothing would get in his way.

    The captain became blood red, "Kill him! NOW!"

    But no soldier moved. Scythe pointed his blade at the captain, "This is payback."

    In the blink of an eye, the captain''s head was on the ground. "IF YOU WANT TO LIVE, LEAVE!" Scythe bellowed. As he finished yelling, the soldiers moved back and deserted. Continuing on his rampage to the main gate, Scythe cut down hundreds of soldiers, casting magic as if it was nothing.

    Getting to a clearing where the catapults were, Scythe prepared his magic, "Let the fire spirit, Ifrit guide my hand, Fire..." A massive bolt flew by, barely missing Scythe.

    "Scythe," A massive man lowered his equally massive crossbow, "What are you doing here?"

    "Getting revenge, join me, Lars," Scythe reached out a hand to his old ally.

    The man thought for a moment, "You do have better food? Right?"

    "Better food and shelter." Scythe lowed his blade.

    "Before I help you, you have to help me get the kids out of here."

    "Where?" Scythe ran to the man.

    "Back there, I was the one to guard them." The man spoke

    Scythe shot up a small fireball, within an instant Sol was there. "What''s going on?"

    "He needs help, I can''t do much as one person." Scythe informed, "I''m going to keep heading to the gate after the catapults are destroyed."

    "Scythe, Ignore the catapults, I can take care of them. The mages, they are using blood magic, they are preparing a large scale spell." Lars spoke, "You know my history, You know what blood magic can do."

    "What is the sacrifice?"

    "The children." Lars grew grim, "That''s why we have to hurry."

    Scythe''s magic flared, in response to his anger. "I''ll take care of those bastards."

    Scythe ran in the direction Lars pointed out, you could feel how wrong this blood magic was. Getting to the circle, seeing a mage cut a child in half, from neck to groin, the mages chanted "Rise... Rise... Rise and destroy."

    Something in Scythe exploded, the same black aura Phae taught Scythe to use was rushing outwards prepared to kill. But this power wasn''t Phae, nor was it the mages. It was deep and hidden within Scythe. It was something beyond human, and its true name has long been lost.If you spot this tale on Amazon, know that it has been stolen. Report the violation.

    The next thing Scythe remembers is holding one of the mages, with a hand not his own, red claws digging into the mage''s throat. His hand stained red with blood. He crushed the neck and moved on, freeing the last child, but they would not move close to him. Backing off, Scythe saw another man, slowly walking towards him. "Seems the mages failed, why don''t we make a deal, Demon."

    "You killed innocent children." an unfamiliar voice snapped

    "We do whatever we can to win," The man drew his blade, "Seem''s I need to be the one to defeat you."

    The black aura exploded outward again, and it was hungry, hungry for blood. A blast went outward from his body. Scythe launched forward, trying to grab the man.

    The man dodged, expecting Scythe to do that. "Well, now that you can''t be reasoned with." The man attacked only once, but Scythe was cut several times and his arm was sliced off. Scythe''s arm fell with a heavy thud.

    Staggering back, Scythe looked at the wounds, his body was glowing white, with a single black core, every wound bled black blood. "Seems I was worried for nothing, a beast is just a beast." the man put up his left hand, "Take my blood, and make a contract, I promise I won''t kill you."

    Hearing those words, angered Scythe even more. He would never be a slave again. Not to anyone. Scythe summoned Phae''s blade, through his wounds. This time it was completely black, it even looked wrong like something that shouldn''t exist but did. The man opened his eyes and his stance changed, he immediately had his hand on his blade. "You, something like you shouldn''t be here." The man spoke fearful, throwing down a handful of small things, blowing up with immense light "Let us meet again." the words faded in the wind.

    Remembering his task, Scythe continued to the gate.

    Getting to the gate, all the soldiers ran off. The gate remained close, but it was close to breaking if he didn''t get there when he did, the gate would have been breached. Turning around, there were no nearby soldiers. Not a soul dared to move on this monster. Crossing each blade he had in front of him, Scythe swung outward. With Phae''s magic boosted, it sliced at least 400 yards of soldiers in half. A moment later, just as before, Sol showed up in front of Scythe. Scythe looked down at her, I wasn''t this tall, Scythe thought. "So that''s your family history and the curse." Sol had fear in her eyes, putting her hand on Scythe''s chest, "It''s time to rest."

    Waking up in complete darkness, Scythe heard a chain move, a massive monster took slow breaths,

    "Welcome." the massive monster spoke, causing the ground to shake, "Seem''s you were forced here."

    "Who are you?"

    "You have no power here, I will ask the questions." the monster spoke raising its voice slightly, "Now that is clear, why are you here, on this lower dimension?"

    "I don''t know, I was born here."

    The monster laughed, it felt like earthquakes, "Ha, oh, you''re serious. You do not belong here on this level."

    "Level?"

    "I suppose you wouldn''t know. My name is ________. The Gatekeeper." the monster spoke in an unfamiliar tongue.

    "I didn''t catch that. I don''t know what you said." Scythe spoke

    "Call me Red," Red spoke, "Seem''s you do not know the old speech."

    "I know you said you ask the questions. But what happened to me?"

    "That is not important, what is, you returned after that spree and wound up here," Red gestured.

    "then what is this place?" Scythe carefully asked

    "The void, it eats Ruun, and I''m trapped here. You do not have the power to free me. If you thought to do so." Red answered

    "Won''t I die?"

    "No, you are within my barrier, but depending on your next answer you might be."

    Scythe stayed quiet.

    "I''m joking, at least I think I am." Red spoke, "So I need to impart something on you, do you mind."

    "Sure, What is it?"

    "Good," Red spoke, as a giant hand picked up Scythe, "Look into my eye."

    A massive glowing crimson eye opened, it''s iris pattern was the same as most dragons. "You... You''re a dragon."

    "You got that fast," Red spoke, "Yes I am a dragon. One from a much, much higher level than this."

    "What do you mean level? You didn''t explain it"

    "You don''t know? I mean you are from here." Red spoke to itself, "Have you heard of dungeons?"

    "Yeah."

    "Good, makes this easier. Dungeons have floors, each floor is stronger than the last. The entire universe is just a massive dungeon. One of such size, even I can not comprehend it''s majesty"

    "I''m not following."

    "You will find out in time, I need to share the information with you before she takes you back." as Red spoke, information flowed into Scythe''s head, a path into the mountains, deep into a cave, past the rubicon. "Go there and you will get more answers." Red said, "May we meet again."

    Back in front of Sol, who was now taller than Scythe, "You did it. You made the army retreat."

    "That''s good." Scythe passed out from blood loss.

 Chapter Thirteen

    Waking up in a tent, with a hundred other injured soldiers around him. Trying to prop himself up on his left arm failed twice, Looking at his arm, it was gone, amputated up to his shoulder. The nurse walked up to him, "I''m sorry your arm was gone by the time you got here, it had gotten infected and would have killed you. So we had to cut off more." the nurse apologized twice, "I''m sorry."

    "Where is Zander?" Scythe asked

    "His majesty? Wait are you Scythe? You look like him." The nurse quickly asked.

    "Yeah, I''m Scythe."

    "I heard you were taken by a dragon, he went out after you. After he left, such cursed timing, the army started attacking." the nurse spoke, "He should be back today."

    "Good." Scythe laid back down. Looking at the ceiling.

    Hours passed, some of the soldiers got up and left, some died to their injuries. Later, near dusk, Scythe heard a familiar voice, "You two, inform me about the death toll here." It was Astela.

    "we''ve had twenty-two people die, fifteen recovered already. We also have Scythe here, though he lost an arm."

    "He''s here!" Astela rushed in straight to Scythe, "It''s good to see you. Damn you look like shit."

    "Yeah, I feel like it too." Scythe forgot about his missing arm again. Almost falling, but caught by Astela.

    "Hey be careful."

    "Sorry."

    "Don''t apologize." Astela said, "You just need time to adjust."

    "I can''t fight anymore though," Scythe grimly said, "Not with only one arm."

    Astela stayed quiet, for a moment, "I know of something, but it would take a while to get it. Let me discuss it with Zander."

    Astela stood up and left. Leaving Scythe alone.

    A day passed, and Scythe was standing, putting on his coat looked weird with only one arm. "I''m gonna head out for a little bit."

    "Well, you are standing, and you have color in your face, you should be fine, but if you experience anything, get back here quick." the nurse spoke.Unauthorized content usage: if you discover this narrative on Amazon, report the violation.

    "I will." Scythe walked out, trying to remember what happened during the battle. Both Luna and SOl were sitting outside, talking to Ifera. Ifera was the first person to notice Scythe, "You''re alive." Ifera spoke,

    "That''s good."

    "Ifera was telling us about when you saved her, and reunited her child with her as well," Sol said, "you did well."

    "Thanks, Sol what happened? I can''t remember much, just Lars, then nothing."

    "I don''t know what you mean, you managed to cause enough chaos that the army retreated," Sol answered.

    "Okay. Ifera... is your daughter okay?"

    "Yeah, Flora saved most of us. I can''t thank her enough." Ifera was happy.

    "I''m glad." Scythe spoke, "I want to move around a bit. After being in a bed. and since I can''t remember I want to see the battlefield."

    "I... I don''t recommend that. There are a lot of dead bodies, the mages are piling them up and burning them." Ifera said, "Most able body people are helping clean up."

    "I don''t want to see that." Scythe said.

    "Let''s walk." Ifera suggested, "I''ll make sure he is safe, so you two stay seated."

    Sol paused standing up and sat back down. "Okay, you two stay safe."

    After walking around for a bit, Ifera started chatting, "Have you heard the rumors about the thing that saved the city?"

    "No, what rumors?" Scythe asked

    "I heard it was a glowing white monster, standing at least twice the height of you. but what was weird is the magic it used. I feel like I''ve heard of something similar."

    "Wasn''t it in the story of the twin goddesses?" Scythe asked

    "Exactly," Ifera snapped, "an invisible blade, reaching farther than the eye could see. Cutting steel like butter. I wonder if it''s the same creature."

    "I don''t know." Scythe said, "if it was, shouldn''t we be scared?"

    "Not really. I''ve read the book, the black fire only killed things that attacked it. And in my home, there were old stories passed down saying it spared demi''s," Ifera said, "I wonder why."

    "Maybe it was a demi itself?"

    "Yeah."

    Walking down the street, it was silent. Not many people out and about. Until Astela was walking down. Looking up and seeing Scythe and Ifera, Astela walked over, "Scythe, Zander is okay with my idea."

    "Okay, but I have no clue what you are planning."

    "The Scarvo can make amazing magitech armaments," Astela said, "I''ve even seen some of them lose an arm and replace it with Magitech arm. It worked as well if not better than the original arm."

    "Okay, and how would that help me?"

    "They can make you an arm, with sufficient gold to pay of course," Astela said

    "I don''t see why not." Scythe said, "I do want my arm back."

    "Then after everything gets cleaned up. We will head out." Astela said, "It might be a week before we can go."

    "Understandable, " Scythe spoke, "Well, Ifera, shall we keep walking?"

    "Yeah."

    "Talk to you later then, Astela." Scythe waved goodbye.

    "Yep talk to you later," Astela walked off, "do you have any idea what that demon was?"

    "No, ma''am. They are looking into as we speak, apparently, there is an arm near a massive magic circle." a guard next to Astela said, as they went out of hearing range. "So what now?" Scythe asked

    "Continue where we left off?" Ifera suggested

    "Don''t see why not." Scythe went along with Ifera to her home, and Ifera made dinner for both of them.

 Chapter Fourteen

    A few days later, any information about the monster was valued. But the information about the arm was kept under wraps, so was the blood magic. Back home, practicing with only a single arm. Scythe was off balance. Sitting down in a huff, "God damn it." Scythe spat

    "You lost an arm, it''s been just a few days," Astela said, sitting next to Scythe.

    "It''s not just that, my sword isn''t like normal." Scythe said.

    "Let me take a look." Astela offered, "I know a thing or two about blades."

    "Sure," Scythe handed the blade over. Astela''s hand dropped some from the sheer weight. "The hell... we have been training we something this heavy?" Astela asked, "You are holding back, aren''t you?"

    Scythe looked away, "Yeah. I''ve been."

    Astela gave Scythe a look, "Next time, don''t hold back so much."

    Astela studied the blade for a time, "Seems like a small crack, running up the length of the blade. You should get that fixed." Astela spoke, "Before it breaks."

    "Yeah." Scythe stood up. "Another round?"

    "Sure." Astela jumped up.

    Round after round, until both were exhausted. By then it was midday. "We should call it here." Scythe said,

    "I can''t do much more."

    "Same, you keep up well." Astela complemented, "Let''s get food."

    Both walked to the main door, but were both stopped from entering, "Why?" Astela asked

    "You both are filthy, go clean up before you come in." the maid answered, "There is a large gathering tonight, and we just finished cleaning."

    "Okay, okay, we''ll go clean up." Astela said, "come on, no point in arguing."

    "Thank you for understanding." the maid spoke

    Walking to the well, Astela pulled up a bucket for both of them. "You know the strangest thing in these last few days was, you suddenly disappearing with a dragon, then you came back just as the battle ended. So who are the two demi''s watching me like a hawk all the time?"

    "Those are my mom''s." Scythe dumped the bucket on himself, "Brr, that''s cold."

    "You''re not a demi." Astela said, "So how are they your parents?"

    "I''m adopted, I don''t know my real parents." Scythe answered.

    "So you''ve been adopted into two families," Astela raised an eyebrow, "but back to strange things, the demon, or whatever it was, killed a lot of soldiers. Personally I''m worried if it comes back and attacks us."

    "So what did it do?" Scythe asked, his own memory was fuzzy from the event.

    "Well we think, don''t tell anyone this," Astela looked deep into Scythe''s eyes.

    "I won''t"This tale has been unlawfully lifted from Royal Road. If you spot it on Amazon, please report it.

    "Good, but as I was saying, we think it''s a blood demon. One more powerful than any I''ve ever heard of. There was evidence of blood magic, and a small child said the demon spared him after killing several mages." Astela spoke, "I think the demon they tried to summon rejected the contract and started killing them and damn near countless soldiers."

    "That doesn''t sound good."

    "Exactly." Astela said, "Whatever it is, I have to find a solution to counter it."

    "I hope it goes well." Scythe said.

    After finishing cleaning up, the two went inside. Preparing for the gathering.

    Later that night, there were hundreds of nobles in the castle, heads of merchant guilds, even Escal and Claire. Everyone partied for a small-time until Zander walked in and silence fell, "I would like to take a moment of silence for all of our fallen brothers and sisters," Zander raised his glass, and after the moment passed he continued, "We united against a common foe. I thank you all. Everyone supporting the weakest member. Except for three lords within my domain, bring them forth."

    Three nobles pushed by guards entered the room. "Some of you are wondering why three of your friends are cuffed in chains." Zander paused, "during the battle these three, did not help at all during it. As a punishment they are no longer nobles, their land and titles stripped and will be kicked onto the streets."

    "What are their crimes!?" a noble yelled

    "They sought to open the east gate, letting the enemy in." Zander was serious, "I was planning on execution, but death is a better fate than being poor. So in making their punishment worse, any noble who seeks to help these traitors will meet the same fate."

    Silence fell, not even whispers. "Now kick them out, and let''s continue the party," Zander ordered

    Scythe sat near the wall, eating a small plate of food. Sol walked up, in a very simple, but still beautiful dress, "Being the king, can also mean being a villain to a few." Sol commented.

    "I wasn''t expecting that." Scythe finished his food.

    "I don''t think anyone would," Sol said.

    "Is Luna here?" Scythe asked

    "No, she is sitting outside in the moonlight. She likes it." Sol had a smile.

    Zander walked up to the two, starting to talk, "Sorry about that, I should have given you some sort of warning."

    "It''s fine. Just a little surprise." Scythe said

    "I don''t believe we had a chance to meet, I''m King Zander Eluician." Zander introduced himself, "And you are?"

    "My name is Sol, I don''t have any fancy title like yourself." Sol bowed slightly.

    "Sol? Did your parents name you after the twin goddesses?" Zander asked

    "I don''t know about that," Sol answered, "this is the first time in a long while since I''ve been in a court."

    "If you were in a court before, why don''t I recognize you?"

    "I''ve lived in the mountains with my love, for the last while." Sol chose her words carefully

    "Where is he? or she?" Zander asked

    "She doesn''t like being in courts," Sol answered, "she prefers the land and its creatures."

    "Understandable, Scythe, when you have a moment can we talk?"

    "If you two need to talk, I''ll be taking my leave," Sol said as she left

    Zander watched her leave, "I think she would look great in armor."

    "I''ve never seen her in any." Scythe answered

    "She walks as if she is, like her... Sorry, but it''s about your arm."

    "What about it?"

    "The road to the Scarvo city is a long one, at least two weeks on horseback to the west."

    "I thought that was dragon territory?" Scythe asked

    "It is, but dragons and Scarvo, have long been allies, they don''t interfere with each other." Zander informed, "the Scarvo are powerful, they could probably take over the world, but they don''t."

    "why?"

    "They don''t care about us, or the surface world. They prefer their magitech and sciences, they might not make your arm, because many humans have asked for weapons." Zander spoke, "that''s why I I wanted you to take a look through the materials we have here in the castle. Take what you need."

    "Thank you, I can''t pay you back enough for everything you have given me." Scythe said.

    "You don''t need to worry about that, you are my son." Zander wrapped an arm around Scythe, "I want to see you safe. Any price is worth that."

    "Thanks. Hey, I heard some rumors about a demon, did you know anything?" Scythe asked.

    "I do know somethings, but this isn''t the place to talk about it." Zander quieted down, "I do know that it was blood magic. That''s all I will say until we get some quiet."

    "Okay."

    "So enjoy the party," Zander spoke aloud

    "Yeah."

    Scythe stayed near the walls, watching the people dance to the flow of the music. Eventually as the night went on, the nobles left. The once filled hall, now empty except for maids cleaning up. Zander walked to Scythe, "Come, let us talk about that demon."

 Chapter Fifteen

    Zander led Scythe into a deep underground hall, filled with body parts of massive creatures, horns, claws, scales, hides, bones, and a range of parts. At the end of the hall, there was a small door compared to the rest of the room. "Use anything here." Zander said, "We can''t do anything with these parts, but we do know their value. That room on the end has even weirder parts, from creatures I don''t know, or even heard of."

    "Huh. So what else?" Scythe asked, "about the demon?"

    "The demon..." Zander stalled, "we found evidence of a blood magic ritual, and an arm we think came from the demon, but the moment we touched it, it crystalized becoming impossible to lift. after a time, it degraded. there isn''t an arm anymore. Just a pile of dust."

    "Huh. but why are you and Astela so scared of it?" Scythe asked

    "Blood magic demons, need blood to survive and grow. After how many it killed, I''m worried there isn''t anyone who can deal with it." Zander turned grim, "but it hasn''t been seen anywhere in a four-day radius around the castle. Just the army, but many of them are getting killed by something. All of the evidence says lightning strikes. but lightning chasing an army, makes me think it''s magic."

    "I would as well. So what would you recommend for the arm?"

    "probably dragon bone. There is a piece, in the little room." Zander started walking, "Come."

    Walking in the hall would make anyone feel small, going through the small door, Ruun filled the air. "What is this feeling?" Scythe asked,

    "We don''t know either, it''s like pure magic but isn''t." Zander spoke, "The bone is right there."This story originates from a different website. Ensure the author gets the support they deserve by reading it there.

    A comparably small horn floated in suspense, it still was at least four and a half feet long. "That should work. The Scarvo like to work dragon bone, and dragons give them shed scales and horns to work with. But rarely do they get to work on great materials such as this." Zander informed, "When you go, look for Ed, he''s an old magitech master. He is a genius. I had the opportunity once to watch him work. It was beautiful to watch."

    "I''ll make sure to go to him." Scythe walked to the horn. Something within it pulsed, showing Scythe the path that Red gave him, again.

    "Hey, are you alright?" Zander asked

    "Yeah, just fine." Scythe grabbed the bone, with nothing more happening.

    "While you travel, keep it covered. If the dragons knew of this place, I''m sure they would invade." Zander said.

    "I will." Scythe answered.

    Back on the surface, Zander and Scythe each went to bed. On his way back to his room, Scythe saw Sol, looking at the painting of the Twin Goddesses. "Hey, Sol." Scythe waved

    "Hey," Sol spoke in a monotone voice.

    "What''s bothering you?" Scythe asked

    "This painting, I know who made it." Sol said, "She was quite the artist. But this... this isn''t her painting. There was no black and purple flame then. Just Phae''s magic. I asked around, apparently, it''s been like this for at least five generations."

    "So this painting was you, Luna and Phae?"

    "Yes, We controlled much of the land, keeping a semblance of peace between the humans and dragons. We named you after a close friend from that time. His name was Scythe Silver-Moon, I do not know where he is now. Just that he is beyond my sight now." Sol answered.

    "I was named after a hero?" Scythe perked up, "I''ve read the books, what was he like in person?"

    "Much like yourself." Sol answered, "He was skilled in many things, but his life was dark. He lost his family in front of him, his magic bored through his body. By the time, his journey reached the end, he was no longer human, but his heart stayed the same. Through trials and tribulations."

    "They never said that in the books." Scythe leaned back.

    "Who would want to read a story of countless deaths? magic curses? Your own family dying in your arms?" Sol spoke

    "I don''t think anyone would."

    "My point." Sol said, "You should get some rest. You have a long ride ahead of you."

    "Yeah," Scythe waved goodbye and went to his room.

 Chapter Sixteen

    Waking up in a weird world, everything was distorted slightly, and wood was charred. The wall had a hole, leading to stairs floating in a void. A bell rung, shaking the world. Something was calling out, but it had no voice.

    Scythe walked down the stairs, after a few steps it turned into a cave. Looking back, there was more cave and stairs disappeared. Continuing down the path, you could hear dripping water. Every drop followed by the bell. The path changed with every step, but the water became louder. Suddenly the walls shot outward, and blue fire torches lit up, the ground was an untouched marble, clean and white. but the water was dark, too dark. Leaning over the edge, a pair of silver-blue eyes opened.

    Scythe launched up from his bed, his heart racing. From outside his door, someone called, "Hey you okay?"

    "Yeah," Scythe stood up and opened the door, it was Luna.

    "I heard you call out. I was worried about you." Luna spoke softly

    "Thanks," seeing light outside Scythe commented, "Is it morning already?"

    "Yeah, the sun just rose." Luna answered, "So you''re leaving today?"

    "Yep, I don''t know how long I''ll be gone." Scythe said, "But by the time I get back I''ll have a new arm."

    "I''m sorry."

    "What for?" Scythe asked

    "I feel it was my fault that you lost your arm. I should''ve noticed the blood magic."

    "Don''t be, I''m still alive, right? So don''t blame yourself."

    "I still feel bad."

    Scythe hugged her, "I''ll be fine. Besides, Astela is a great fighter, I''ll be protected enough just by her."

    "Okay, just you make sure you come back." Luna pushed off Scythe

    "I will." Scythe said, "I just need to get ready."

    "Oh, of course." Luna stepped back, "I''ll talk to you later then."

    "Of course." Scythe closed his door and started packing a few things.

    A few hours later, Scythe was readying the horses. Which was much harder with only a single arm. By midday, the entire group was ready. Reven, Liz, and Ifera joined. On the ride out of the city, it was then, Scythe saw the carnage of the battle. The grass stained red. Pieces of armor piled up, some starting to rust, banners lay half broken and scattered. Still, hundreds of bodies remained, and the mages working day and night, to clean it up. Before the Necromoprthic beasts would show up. A shiver went down Scythe''s back. Something was watching him.

    The first day of riding was uneventful. Setting up camp was left to people with two arms. Scythe wanted to help out more, so he started making dinner. Using his magic to heat the pot, while he chopped up the meat and potatoes. As it started to cook, Scythe asked: "Does anyone have garlic?"

    "No," Astela said, "I knew we forgot something."

    "It''s fine, it just needs to cook a little and it should be ready." Scythe was down a little

    Unlawfully taken from Royal Road, this story should be reported if seen on Amazon.After dinner, Ifera took up the cleaning. As everyone went to bed, "I''ll take first watch." Scythe said

    "I''ll join you." Ifera spoke, "The rest of you get some sleep."

    "Keep the fire going," Astela said as she went into her tent.

    Since Astela was the last person awake, Scythe and Ifera were alone. "So... Uh I wanted to say thanks for dinner," Ifera spoke.

    "No worries. As I said I like to cook." Scythe said

    "But since you... only have one arm. I should have helped more with cooking." Ifera said

    "It''s fine. I know I''m going to have a new arm soon, I just don''t want to be useless." Scythe said, "I want to keep up my practice."

    "Well, I was wondering where you learned to cook." Ifera asked, "So would you tell me?"

    "Sure," Scythe answered, "basically since I left home, and while I was a slave, anytime I had a chance to cook, I took it. Eventually, the commanding officers, wanted me to cook them dinner. Since my food was better than most of their trained chefs. Since I became more valuable to them they gave me more access to better food. I never used magic to cook. Now that I''ve been free, using magic to cook makes way better food. It''s kinda funny."

    "Huh, I never really thought about using magic." Ifera pondered her mind, "Don''t you run out of magic?"

    "Not really. When I was younger I did, but haven''t really run out recently." Scythe said, "I''m curious about that as well. Maybe it''s because I practice so much."

    "What do you do to practice?" Ifera was curious

    "This," Scythe created a flame in his hand, and moved it between his fingers, slowly picking up speed. Ifera watched closely, thinking on how to replicate it. After a little bit, Ifera tried it herself, but her flame kept dying out or was too big. "Dang... That''s harder than it looks." Ifera got flustered.

    "It''s a lot of practice." Scythe gave some advice, "There are a few parts to controlling the fire, first controlling the input of mana, Second, the airflow is important. Don''t ball up your hand, keep it open, like... uh... in a river, gliding along the water."

    "Hmm," Ifera grunted, trying to follow the advice Scythe gave her. The new flame started out larger but shrunk down. It stayed at the same size for a small time. "Now try to move it." Scythe suggested

    "Okay," Ifera was deep in thought, it moved back and forth. No more than a centimeter. Trying to move it further, it died out. "Damn." Ifera snapped

    "You were doing well, you definitely learn faster than me, it took me a few months to get to that point" Scythe complemented.

    "Thanks. I want to keep trying at it."

    "Go ahead, we have all night." Scythe said, "I can keep watch, while you practice."

    "I know you have had much more practice than me, but what can you do?" Ifera asked

    "I never really tried," Scythe started to focus on controlling multiple flames at once, at least twelve different flames floated around Scythe in a dance. All of them were close in size, moving at a slow but steady pace. Wanting more, Scythe focused harder. The flames started to move faster and faster, more flames showed up. Then everything disappeared with a snap, "I should get more practice before I try, more of that." Scythe sat down, "But now I have a goal over these two weeks."

    Ifera looked blankly at Scythe, "How much mana do you have?"

    "I don''t know. Is there a way to test it?" Scythe asked.

    "Yeah, what you just did." Ifera said, "I saw at least twenty different flames, all moving without hitting each other. I don''t know for certain, but I think that means a lot."

    "Is that bad?" Scythe asked

    "No... by the gods no. It means you have a gift for magic." Ifera said, "I''m kinda jealous. Having a lot of magic is valuable, there are many things showing up that need magic, and you will be able to use most of them, if not all."

    "Yeah. but, anytime I use a lot of magic, it just hurts."

    "What you did wasn''t a lot?" Ifera tilted her head

    "No, that wasn''t much. I can do little stuff." Scythe spoke.

    "I kinda wish I had your level of power," Ifera spoke, "I could become a grand enchanter, and give my daughter a better life."

    "So where did you leave her?"

    "With Flora. She''s going to learn how to weave. She asked me that when I go on my next mission. I leave her with Flora."

    "I wish her the best in her endeavors." Scythe stood up and stretched, "I was curious, how are the other women that I saved?"

    "Some decided to full-on stop being an adventurer. some decided to stay in the city. Two of them want to kill every last goblin they find." Ifera informed, "And well, I already told you."

    "Yep." Scythe walked around the camp, for a little bit, before sitting down once more. "Well, nothing to do but kill time." Scythe looked up at the sky, pristine and clear. With countless stars.

 Chapter Seventeen

    A few days later, the group reached the halfway point. A massive cluster of mountains. From here on, the road will be much more treacherous. Bandits, Kobolds, and Emerald Eagle''s line the mountain paths. And compared to the last week, traveling will be much harder. Looking behind them, Scythe noticed a storm, "Hey Astela, will that be a problem?"

    Astela looked back, "Only if we don''t have any cover."

    "Then we should hurry." Scythe sat back forward and kept riding.

    Keeping an eye out for any cover big enough for everyone, took some time. Even with a storm on approach.

    Finally, they found cover. As the storm started down pouring. "Get those tents up!" Astela yelled

    "Working on it," Ifera yelled back

    Unable to do much, Scythe started the fire for cooking. With a little chaos, all the tents were put up but the wind caused the rain to go sideways. Everyone stayed near the fire, just to stay dry. "Just what we need. Getting soaked to the bone." Liz chattered.

    "It could be worse, there could be hail," Reven said, unbothered by the rain

    "Yeah," Scythe said, stirring the food. "We need to hunt something after the rain passes. We are almost out of most ingredients."

    "After the rain, I''ll go take a look." Astela offered, "Since you have done the last few nights as a guard, I''ll take up some of the work tonight."

    "Thanks, I could use the sleep."

    Everyone ate dinner and went to their tents. Ifera and Scythe doubled up in the same tent. "Well to continue the practice," Scythe said, "It''s not much more than that."

    "Yeah." Ifera created the flame, already getting it to move a sizeable distance. "How did you learn this in the first place?"

    Scythe thought for a moment, "My memory is a little hazy, but Luna, my mom. Taught me a lot about magic. She compared it to a blade, an extension of your body. But she also made it clear that it isn''t the be-all, end-all."

    "Fair." Ifera bounced the flame in her hand while thinking about magic, "Wait, could we try something?"

    "Sure." Scythe spoke slowly, "What is it?"

    "Let''s face each other," Ifera turned her body, "Let''s pass the flame, back and forth. That might help, using both of our magic."

    "I didn''t think of that." Scythe turned to face Ifera, "Continue explaining."This tale has been unlawfully lifted from Royal Road. If you spot it on Amazon, please report it.

    Ifera created a flame and handed it to Scythe, soon just floating it back and forth between them. They did this for a time. "That takes way more focus." Ifera said, "But I think it was good."

    "Not too much, but just enough. There is more fine motor control." Scythe added, "I think you are the one with the gift for magic. You understood so much in such little time, I''m pretty sure I''m going to be learning from you soon."

    "You jest." Ifera slightly pushed at Scythe

    "I''m serious, you have a natural talent." Scythe insisted, "I could ask my mom''s to teach you when we get back. They love teaching."

    "I... Uh," Ifera got flustered, "I''ll think about it."

    Scythe laid down, propping his leg on the other, creating a flame at his fingertip. Exhausted, he quickly fell asleep.

    Waking up in the void, Scythe tried creating his own light. But it quickly died out every time he made another. Until another thing made light, but this light was cold and empty. Turning around it was Phae''s blade, the crack glowing white. Reaching out to touch it, it disappeared. Reappearing a distance away.

    Scythe chased after the blade, it led him into a cave. One all too familiar. The blade sheathed itself on a pedestal. Looking around, this was the cave at home, but it was different, the stone was recently carved, and there was no rockslide. Looking around, Scythe saw another person, just as confused. This person, had the same silver hair as Scythe, her eyes like rubies but she carried two blades, Scythe reached out,

    "Aurora?"

    "Scythe?" Aurora spoke, looking around "Where are you?"

    "I''m right here." Scythe waved, not knowing he was invisible.

    "I can''t see you, but I can hear you." Aurora looked around, "This has to be a dream. and if we can talk... we need to make it quick, where are you?"

    "I''m heading to the Scarvo city, we just reached the mountains." Scythe answered

    Aurora smirked, "I''m there now, guess I''ll be seeing you soon."

    "I''m sorry." Scythe said, but Aurora disappeared before he said anything. "Damn it!" Scythe snapped

    "You''ll be seeing her soon enough," Phae spoke.

    "Phae. What happened after that magic circle?" Scythe got straight to the point.

    "No ''it''s good to see you''?" Phae spoke, "But you want the truth, and I''ll give it to you. Your magic, your true magic, cracked my blade, it gave me quite the shock."

    "What do you mean true magic?" Scythe asked

    "That primal form of yours, The Arrynzoth."

    "Arrynzoth? What the hell is that?"

    Phae didn''t have a body, but you could tell she was giving a look, "An Arrynzoth, is from the Realm of Dul-Shad. Something beyond me, and your mothers."

    Scythe was shocked, "I can''t have that power, I don''t have more magic than Sol or luna, or even you."

    "But you do. Your blood is filled with void magic. I have only encountered two other Arrynzoth''s, each master, true masters of magic. Well, not magic, but Ruun."

    "You''ve said Ruun before, I have no clue on what that is." Scythe then asked, "what do you mean void magic?"

    "Ruun is the highest form of magic. Or would it be better to say, the true form of magic?" Phae asked herself, "Void magic, is rather unique. You can take spells used against you, and turn on the people who attacked you. You''ve said it yourself, any big magic hurts. Because it hasn''t been used against you."

    "I''m not following."

    "You will learn with time," Phae spoke

    Scythe woke up. Ifera was deep in sleep herself, the rain had stopped. Stepping out, Scythe waved to Astela who kept the fire low. "Wanting to trade?" Astela asked, "I could use some sleep."

    "Sure, you head to bed. I''ll watch till morning." Scythe sat down after tossing a log on the fire.

    Astela stood up, and went to her tent, speaking through a yawn "Night."

    "Night." Scythe watched the embers float up into the sky.