《Force of Evolution》


 Prologue

    Morning


    Its early hours on a weekday in a generic city, the sun is peaking over the horizon yet the streets are silent. While some may say its ominous, to me it is refreshing. I, James Hunt, am on my way back from my archery training. Why am I out so early for archery training you ask? Well I have a little agreement with the instructor since I work part-time there as well so I can come and go as I please, in moderation of course.


    Today like any other I traverse the streets on my way back to my apartment listening to my music. I have no roommates or family at home so honestly, I''m in no rush to get there.


    As I turn the corner my apartment is in sight, its quite large especially for one person and the distance between it and my job is basically nothing.


    Listening to music at full blast using headphones is one of the many perks of walking by yourself on an empty street, no need to pay attention for passerbys. As I cross the road, I look at my phone to skip the song, honestly new rap annoys me.


    Satisfied with my new song, I step forward. This is the biggest mistake in my short life i''ve ever made. A bone-shattering impact rams me from the side. My mind turns white instantly, no pain was felt but that itself was scary. As my haziness grew thin, a soft gentle voice spoke out to him.


    [Voice] "24 years old? Such a waste, you are a bright soul. Truly a waste."


    [James]"Eh? W-who? are... you? I''m dying?"


    Struggling to speak and stay awake, James put all his effort into holding out for as long as he could.


    [Voice]"I''ve decided. Let go child, I shall help you but for now, sleep."


    [James]"Let...g...o? No..."


    Despite his best efforts, deaths hands had already gripped the 24 year old man. All sound faded away, colour ceased to exist as did his senses.


    That was the end of the man known as James Hunt.


    [James]"Hold on? I''m dead right? If thats the case then why the hell am I in here?"


    As he regained some semblence of self, he awoke to a long corridor with shadow surrounding himself. A single rectangular light lay at the end of the shadows. A door. Thats the first thing James thought about. Throwing all caution to the wind, James groggily stood up shaking off the discomfort and gradually edged towards the light.


    [James]"Its about time, I swear that didn''t look that long from back there, this is all too strange"


    After what felt like hours, James arrived in front of the light. He slowly stepped through the doorway making sure not to let his guard down.


    [James]"Huh? A meadow? Its so gloomy, I dont want to stay here too long, definitely"


    As James surveyed the area, he noticed faint tints of red on the grass blades leading towards the center.


    [James]"Now usually I would not even consider following such as sketchy trail but I''m dead, there is nothing to lose"


    Slowly following the red trail, James realised that the red colour was rapidly becoming more prominent in comparison to the green. As he approached the center of the tall grass, he saw it. A scene that no modern day ordinary person would be completely comfortable seeing. A human figure laid on the floor surrounded by a deep crimson liquid.This story has been taken without authorization. Report any sightings.


    [James]"No way! No! No! How?! Am I not dead? Wait who even is this guy?"


    A man with his face hidden by a skeletal mask, lay face up on the ground with 3 blindingly white blades. My eyes were definitely playing tricks on me, theres no way this is real. I edged closer, in search of answers, when a croaky voice reaches my ears.


    [Croaky Voice]"Baaa...ck off. One more step and I will slit your throat"


    [James]"Hold up? You''re alive? How? You''ve been skewered! Three times now less!"


    [Man]"You rat! You dare say... this..."


    [James]"It''s alright, take your time Kebab Man"


    I didn''t actually mean to say that, it just slipped out. I guess the stress has affected my social filter and I am not regulating my words properly.


    [Man]"You dare say such a thing to this Bryak! Know your place mortal!"


    [James]"Mortal? Wait, so you''re immortal yet you''re on deaths door?"


    [Bryak]"Don''t question this Great One Bryak! If it wasn''t for that vixen Alphea, I, a death god, would not be so easily killed!"


    [James]"Alphea? Death god? I have so many questions but I suppose the biggest one would be, what are we going to do now?"


    [Bryak]"I''m going to kill you obviously? Stay there. Your soul will return to the system, it seems that me being in such a compromised state has effected your reincarnation"


    [James]"Ah... shit. I would rather be on my way now, it was nice meeting you Sir Bryak!"


    As I said that, I turned around and sprinted towards the opposite direction I came. I mean why would I head towards the dark shadow coridor when I would basically be cornering myself and asking for death?After sprinting at full strength for approximately 10 minutes, I realised how naive I have been. He is a god, it is obvious he could teleport in his own divine realm. He stares at me, hatred, pity and a hint of admiration fill his eyes.


    [Bryak]" Nice attempt, Child of man, you managed to nullify my restraining magicka that I was using."


    [James]"Restraining magicka? You were using such a thing?"


    [Bryak]"Yes, Child of Man, even if I am gravely injured, such a feat is impressive. That said, it''s time to die"


    Bryak''s purple scythe that he pulled out of thin air swings down at a speed unthinkable for an injured person. Truly a godlike power. Unbelievably my mind is clear. I see, I suppose once you experience death once it''s not too scary.


    [James]"Well... if its the end, I at least want to get a single hit in!"


    Despite the futile effort, I desperately want to hit this arrogant asshole! Running into the path of the scythe,I approach one of the blades in Bryak''s chest. With all the power in my body, I grip the sword and push forward. Simultaneously, my left shoulder feels a smoldering pain, the scythe has cut cleanly through my shoulder and torso.


    [James]"Arrrghhh! It hurts! Fuck! Pain is horrible! I''ll kill you!"


    Anger fills my heart, my mind is clear yet my one desire in this situation is to kill this enemy in front of me. I have never felt such a strong hatred before, yet I let go. I succumb to the anger just this once as I''m dying anyway.


    I gripped the sword tighter. It has a basic design but the hilt of the sword has a snake and dragon head carved into it. Even for my untrained eyes, I can tell it is a masterpiece. Gripping the hilt, I push with every ounce of my body and slowly but surely I feel movement against the overwhelming resistance.


    Just a bit more! My mind is focused, my muscles are solely working for this one purpose. My vision has lost all it''s colour and my breathing has slowed. I see, this is the end. Just as self-deprication filled my mind, a blood-curdling screech was heard from in front of me.


    [Bryak]"You vermin! Stop! Let go! Now! How can I, the Great Death God Bryak be killed by a pest like you!"


    White light starts to burn Bryak from the inside out, his whole body enveloped. Pure hatred fills his expression.


    [Bryak]"Curse you Alphea! You vixen interferring with others! And you! Watch out! When I''m gone news of your actions will put you on the wanted list, you will be consigned to a never-ending existence of pure agony and tortue!"


    After Bryak unloaded all of his hatred, the three swords fell to the floor with a clang as his body burns to nothing, not even ash.


    [James]"I see... I did it... but it''s too late"


    Once again my conciousness slowly recedes and darkness envelops my very being. I suppose this is the true end. Despite the imment death of myself, I did not feel fear, in fact I felt relieved that I manage to end that arrogant bastards life.


    With that last thought, everything faded to black.

 A Fresh Start With A Fresh Resolve

    How long have I been submerged in this darkness? A day? A Month? Longer?


    I could not answer, neither was I given these answers. After losing consciousness, I did not wake back up, yet I still remembers everything clearly.


    Just as I begin to worry about my precarious situation, light seeps into my surroundings. When the light hits my body, an excruciating pain assaults my head.


    [MC]¡±Arrrrrrrghhhhh¡­ hurts¡±


    True pain rivalling the pain of getting my side torn off by Bryak. Of course, my instant thought is that I¡¯m finally dying for good. This is the end.


    But like every other event, my estimations are far off. The pain slowly recedes and in its place is a set of new hazy memories.


    I open my eyes slowly, amazed at the fact that I have a body once more. Though after my initial high, I face the reality that my body is no more. Instead I¡¯m stuck in a very restrictive body.


    Needless to say, my body is not tied up, its just the lack of muscle and control due to its immature age. That¡¯s right, I¡¯m in the body of a child.


    [MC]¡±Ok, ok. Don¡¯t panic, me. Don¡¯t panic, I¡¯m sure everything will be explained once I calm myself¡±


    Unfortunately, despite my constant self-reassurance my mind was swirling with confusion.


    After another 5 minutes of repeating the charade of panicking and calming down, I search through my memories in hope of finding answers. Luckily, I managed to gain a few answers to my questions:


    Who am I? Ken Oswald, or so my guardian calls me.


    Where am I? A house I¡¯ve been raised in since I was 2


    Following this, I found out my current body is 6 years old and the person who¡¯s caring for me is 20 years old. Despite this, I could not find any answers as to why my memory and soul is in this child¡¯s body but what I do know is that the original Ken Oswald is no more.


    As I¡¯m looking around for hints, the wooden door to my room is gently opened. Peering their head through the door is a mature beauty. No other phrase can describe her, even those words do not do her justice. Brown hair with her fringe swept to the right, whilst the rest of the hair flows down her back followed by deep mahogany eyes. Her body has curves in all of the right places with a bust of at least C-Cups.


    If this was earth, there was no doubt that this lady would be at the centre of the modelling world. Yet despite her unrefuted beauty, a gentle homely aura surrounded her, truly a dangerous combination.


    Her name is Lana.


    [Lana]¡± Ken~, I¡¯m back. Did you miss me?¡±A case of content theft: this narrative is not rightfully on Amazon; if you spot it, report the violation.


    [Ken]¡± E-erh I mean¡­ Yes, of course I did Lana!¡±


    My words got caught in my throat, I mean the 24-year-old me never really got into relationships. It was a life choice, totally no other reason. Like I was saying, it was a life choice to not speak to any girls other than those that approach me. Yep!


    [Lana]¡± Good, good Ken! I missed you too, I¡¯m sorry I couldn¡¯t spend time with you today, the manager kept me back for overtime since his wife is having her second child soon, so he plans to close shop¡±


    [Ken]¡± What shop Lana? You¡¯ve never told me about work.¡±


    [Lana]¡± Ah¡­ I forgot. Yes, since you¡¯re growing up now, I decided to work full time at the weapon shop. They¡¯re quite fond of you so they let me work full-time¡±


    I see, so that middle-age couple that look like they can wrestle with bears for fun are the owners of the shop Lana works at. It seems that when Lana worked part-time, I would visit and help around the store.


    But man, this is hard. I need to act appropriate for my age or else something dangerous could happen. I suppose I should remain normal and start showing my true self at around 10 years old.


    [Lana]¡± Anyways, did you finish the chores and your studying?¡±


    [Ken]¡± Eh?¡±


    [Lana]¡± Don¡¯t Eh me! I told you to do the chores whilst I¡¯m gone and to study magicka! You have quite some talent so its better if you at least study!¡±


    [Ken]¡± Oh¡­ Oh I mean, YEAH! I did the chores! I definitely did them, see it¡¯s so clean!¡±


    Lana stared at me and then observed the room. Her gaze was like a predator waiting for an opening. I mean, why is a normal person so intimidating? I¡¯m trembling here!


    [Lana]¡± Then you can get back to studying in a minute, I¡¯ll help you. Afterwards I¡¯ll give you 5 Denarius as promised¡±


    Denarius? I suppose that¡¯s the money. From what I recall, there are 5 types of coinage common people will ever use, first copper coins are 1 Denarius, bronze is 50 Denarius, silver is 1000 Denarius, rose silver is 50,000 Denarius and finally gold is 1,000,0000. Though us common folk will rarely see a rose silver coin let alone gold.


    Evening comes and I close my book. Magicka is interesting. It turns out that Lana is adept in water magic. As for me, well I don¡¯t know. According to Lana, magic affinities bloom at the age of 15, an adult. Due to this, its better for me to practice Non-attribute Magicka first and work on my control.


    Since I¡¯m 6 years old now, I¡¯m at the point where I should start training to build up muscles. Especially since this world is a living nightmare. That is no exaggeration, this world is cruel to those who are weak, from my hazy memories it seems that my parents were considerably weak. Therefore, I have resolved myself to become strong or else I¡¯ll lose everything like them.


    3 weeks have passed since I first reawakened, my body is fitter than ever. Every day I¡¯ve woken up at 5 am, grabbed a bow Lana got me on my 6<sup>th</sup> birthday and trained in the forest outside the town. If the villagers knew this they would faint, according to the books I¡¯ve read at home, the forest here is called Deaths Feeding Grounds. That¡¯s not a very pleasant name considering its less than 1 kilometre away from town.


    The reason for such a drastic name is that the beasts who hunt on these lands are classified as rank A monsters. Only 2 ranks below the highest known class.


    Now how come I am hunting here daily? Well that¡¯s simple. I got lost one day when chasing a rank C monster and found myself in the middle of Deaths Feeding Grounds. It was there that I found some fruit resembling bananas. After 5 hours of endless searching, I made it out of the forest with a bounty of fruit and showed it to Lana.


    As expected, she slapped me and hugged me whilst telling me to not worry her. Honestly seeing a mature beautiful cry tears of relief over your safety made my heartbeat so fast.


    Anyways, since then I¡¯ve been taking the same route daily and have yet to encounter anything above a C rank monster. In fact, it¡¯s almost as if they¡¯re the only monsters in the forest. Maybe the A ranks all migrated?


    Like that, life carried on for a few years. Nothing truly out of the ordinary happened as I steadily accumulated strength and prepared to leave the nest.

 Life Is Never That Simple

    Many years have passed since I first started training. Right now, I¡¯m 14 years old. Nothing eventful has happened so far, except that recently Lana has been getting harassed by a noble. It seems that the noble noticed her by chance and proposed right then and there. Luckily, she turned him down instantly.


    When I found out, I released so much bloodthirst that the birds on the window fainted instantly. It shocked me that Lana was such a precious existence to me.


    In this country of Ustrea, those that are unmarried after the age of 25 are seen as too old. Therefore, Lana who is 28 is considered old is often subject to proposals from no good people. The noble in question is a prime example of this. His name is Baron Lionel Trent and is aged 45. His reputation is below poor as he is notorious for travelling across the country and sleeping with married women. This would not be so bad in this country as polygamy is common however, 9 times out of 10, it is not consensual when the Baron is involved. Truly disgusting.


    [Ken]¡± Hey Lana, I¡¯m glad you denied that asshole¡±


    [Lana]¡± Of course, accepting was never an option anyways¡±


    [Ken]¡± Oh? Why is that? Despite his reputation, the Baron is fairly wealthy so most people would accept since it basically guarantees a better living¡±


    When I asked that, Lana stared at me and smiled gently. After a few seconds she resumed cleaning her Claymore sword.


    [Lana]¡± Maybe one day you will find out why, I plan to reject everyone until Mr Right asks me¡±


    [Ken]¡± I see¡­ I see¡±


    I couldn¡¯t help but feel a slight pain when I imagined Lana with a guy. Lana has raised me since I was young as a guardian, yet we are nowhere near related. The furthest our ties went was family friends. I suppose I can¡¯t deny it for any longer. I will be 15 tomorrow, I suppose then I can at least get it off my chest.


    That evening, I went back to the forest to hunt. Recently I¡¯ve been seeing Rank B beasts though I can hunt them easily. Rank B monsters are not very strong, the only reason they¡¯re feared so much is due to their ability to grow into higher ranks.


    After 2 hours of training, I head back home. As I approach the door, I notice something. The house feels lonely. It feels as though no one is inside. Of course, that¡¯s not exactly unusual but at this time Lana is usually home and resting after work. As I slowly head to the kitchen, I spot large scratches on the wall.


    My mind instantly went alert. Such scratches are far too abnormal for a normal beast of even B rank, this means that something huge has taken Lana.


    [Ken]¡± Yet why has there not been a huge commotion if such a beast appeared here?¡±


    After a few minutes of searching, I notice multiple human footprints on the ground and signs of a struggle.


    [Ken]¡± I can think of only one person who could employ such powerful Beast Tamers and use it to kidnap Lana, that scum¡±


    Seething anger spread throughout every fibre of my body. With the remaining parts of my sanity, I rinsed my head under the tap. Since the level of technology of this continent was only a slightly bit better than the middle ages, the water was cold.Love what you''re reading? Discover and support the author on the platform they originally published on.


    [Ken]¡± Keep it cool, Ken. If he¡¯s taken her then there is only one-way thing to do. Erase him.¡±


    Such words would shock those of his original world since murder was a felony, yet Ken knew hesitation would mean losing Lana.


    Lucky for me, Mr Baron was nice enough to leave my bow. As he is the feudal lord of this territory, it¡¯s a given that he would go back to his mansion. With this knowledge I set out towards the ostentatious mansion atop the hill.


    As the sun begins to set, I approach the back of the mansion. Due to a stroke of luck, I arrived before the carriage with Lana. I say luck but really, I owe the old couple from the weapon shop a large debt. When they noticed an unconscious Lana in the carriage, the old man rushed out with a large number of rusted weapons and ¡®fell over¡¯. This stopped the carriage from passing for an hour since the horse was injured by the metal shards.


    I stealthily scale the stone wall and head towards the largest room from the outside. As I edge across the spacious backyard, I hear a crack behind me.


    [Ken]¡± Why? Just why were you there at that exact time you mutt!¡±


    My eyes locked with a 3-meter-tall wolf, unlike a normal wolf its pelt was pitch black with its hair containing a metallic gleam. I spun around with my bow knocked and loosed an arrow instantly.


    [Ken]¡± Tch, I guess optimism isn¡¯t accepted huh¡±


    As soon as my arrow approached the wolfs eye, it opened its mouth crunched on the arrow. I was speechless, I didn¡¯t hold back all that much yet this monster was chewing on my attack. This proves the strength of the monster; it is at least A rank. My very first A rank encounter and it turns out to be a battle I cannot escape from. Just my luck.


    [Ken]¡± Ok Mr Wolf, do you know what time it is?¡±


    [Ken]¡± No? Neither do I, I just felt like saying that¡±


    Bad puns aside, I need to find a way to dispose of this thing as quietly as possible. Lana should be here at any minute.


    As fast as the wind, the wolf pounced and slashed directly towards my torso. I jumped backwards with all my strength and rolled to the left. As I landed, a black object slashed the place that I was at. My trained eyes could only just register the movement.


    The wolf growled and bared its yellow fangs at me, drool dripped to the floor as its blood red eyes glared at me like a piece of meat.


    [Ken]¡± Are you serious? What sort of movements are those?¡±


    As I complained and smiled bitterly, the wolf once again slashed at me. A searing pain attacked my torso. I looked down to see a deep gash in my chest.


    [Ken]¡± Agggghhhhh what? There was no initial movement! That wasn¡¯t a pounce! That was teleportation!¡±


    Kens guess was correct, at A rank, monsters start to develop special unique skills and magic that they can use directly.


    I see, so he¡¯s got to be A rank at least. I suppose it¡¯s got something to do with teleportation or warping. Ken jumped back as far as he could and readied his arrow. Bearing the pain and blood loss, Ken loosed the arrow. It soared through the distance in seconds and struck the foreleg of the wold.


    It bounced of an fell to the floor like a log.


    [Ken]¡± What even is this? Is this meant to be fair?¡±


    Despite his complaining, Ken contained firing arrows at various spots in a desperate attempt to find a weak spot. His arrows slowly depleted to the point that he only had 10 left.


    [Ken]¡± Seriously, just what is this?¡±


    Kens breathing grew ragged, his face red flowing with sweat. His eyes contained the slight despair of a man about to lose everything. The wolf jumped at Ken, it¡¯s mouth open wide and it¡¯s claws aiming for his torso.


    With his last ounce of strength Ken pulled the arrow. Time slowed, his breathing calmed, and his vision focused on the only moving target.


    [Ken]¡± Huh? This reminds of that time against that Death God whatever his name was¡±


    Smiling bitterly to himself, Ken watched as the wolf appeared in front of him. It swung its claw down at shredded Kens chest. Living through the agony, Ken shot the arrow at the wolf and closed his eyes.


    Seconds passed by and no further impact assaulted Ken.


    [Ken]¡± Ow, ow, ow. I seriously hate pain. But what¡¯s up with this tease of a wolf?¡±


    Ken opened his eyes and was shocked by the site. The wolf lay on the floor with a rugged arrow sticking out from its eye socket. The arrow was deep enough to penetrate the brain of the beast.


    [Ken]¡± Can I call that lucky I guess?¡±


    As ken laughed in self-mockery, agony took over his body. It seemed his adrenaline had finally run out and the accumulated damage tore into his body. His face paled as large quantities of blood left his body. He closed his eyes, the face of a mature older beauty surfaced. His face naturally formed a sweet smile for a split second, but it soon turned to an expression of sheer sadness.


    [Ken]¡± I¡¯m sorry Lana, it seems my resolve wasn¡¯t enough¡±


    While this was happening the time ticked on, it finally became 12 am.

 Where It All Begun

    -Lana POV-


    My parents died when I turned 18, of course I was devestated over this and contemplated whether or not it was worth carrying on. However when my situation was at its lowest, someone physically dragged me out of my room and into their own home. This brutish person was Ken''s mother, Anna. Anna was the backbone of Kens family and had complete control over her husband David, it was to the point that I felt sorry for him. Anyways once I was dragged to their house, she forcefully bathed me and fed me a proper meal. If I remember correctly, I hadn''t eaten a proper meal for 2 weeks and when I had, I downed large amounts of alcohol alongside it.


    Now that I look back at it, those people could be called my saviors, though to me they were more of my family. If I had to choose my saviour, it would be Ken. That boy despite being 5 at the time was so cute that it washed all of my despair away whenever I would play with him. He was truly a great way to distract myself from reality.


    However that peace was short-lived. Only 2 months after I moved in with Ken and his parents, Anna and David both died on a quest from the Guild. Luckily Ken did not understand what happened but for me, it was the second time my entire family was demolished. If I didn''t have Ken then my mind would have easily shattered.


    Thats why I decided to look after him, I took a full-time job instead of part-time at the Old couples armory and provided for Ken and myself like a normal mother. This continued up until Ken''s 10th birthday. On his 10th Birthday, I returned home with a small cake from a stall to find that Ken was out. After 2 hours of waiting, Ken returned covered in dirt dragging the corpse of a B-Rank monster known as a Frenzy Boar. It seemed to be a small one however for me, it allowed me to see how much of a man Ken had become. At that point on, I left the meat and food procuration to Ken. Some of our neighbours started viewing us as a married couple, everytime something like that was said I couldn''t help but smile as my cheeks tinted a slight red.


    Life carried on like normal until the day before Ken''s 15th birthday. A strange conversation happened between us due to a marriage request from a Scummy Baron.


    [Ken]¡± Hey Lana, I¡¯m glad you denied that asshole¡±


    [Lana]¡± Of course, accepting was never an option anyways¡±


    [Ken]¡± Oh? Why is that? Despite his reputation, the Baron is fairly wealthy so most people would accept since it basically guarantees a better living¡±


    [Lana]¡± Maybe one day you will find out why, I plan to reject everyone until Mr Right asks me¡±


    [Ken]¡± I see¡­ I see¡±


    When he first asked I was confused since I thought it was obvious that I would refuse such a pig, yet when I saw Kens seriously anxious expression, it made me swallow my joke and reply seriously.


    That evening after work, I went home early in preparation for a day off tomorrow with Ken. When I reached my house I sensed that something was amiss and silently entered through the front door. As I opened the door, a hand reached out and grabbed my wrist. I screamed as loud as I could, making the assailant show himself.


    [Goon]" Shut the fuck up you bitch, don''t make me gag you"


    [Lana]" Who are you? Get away from me before I hurt you!"


    Those threats were thin since eventhough I am trained enough to kill a B-Ranked monster, I doubt I have the resolve to kill another human.


    [Goon]" Hey Captain, can I punch her, shes annoying me"


    [Captain]" No, the Baron said to take her in as good of condition as possible, just give her the drug and lets go"Stolen novel; please report.


    [Lana]" Get away you bastards, you will regret this!"


    I frantically pulled on my arm but nothing worked, it seems that the goon has quite a lot of grip strength. Despite my intense struggles, the goon manages to splash a pure green liquid on my face. Instantly, my vision becomes blurry and my body becomes heavy.


    [Captain]" Fool. That potion is a high-grade sleeping potion easily worth twice your weekly income."


    I blacked out after those words. My last thoughts wondered about the safety of my Ken. I hope he is safe and can live a happy life.


    By the time I woke up, I was in a carriage with my hands tied together. The sky outside the luxurious carriage was a light purple. It seems that I was out cold for at least an hour.


    [Captain]" Oi are you awake now?"


    [Lana]" Well done smart ass, glad to see Captain Obvious is doing his job"


    [Captain]" Oh thats suprising, someone with such a gentle appearance has quite a lot of venom"


    [Lana]" So that pig of a baron has kidnapped me right?"


    [Captain]" Thats right, you might as well kiss your past goodbye"


    As he said that anger and saddness filled my mind. I was angry at these people for forcefully ruining my life with Ken. And I was sad because my life with Ken was over. Only now do I realise how dependant I really am on him.


    [Captain]" We''re here, get out and head to the front door"


    I dragged myself out of the carriage and begrudgingly moved towards the door. An old butler greeted me courteously and led me to a door with extravagent decorations.


    [Butler]" Master, Miss Lana is here. I request to enter"


    After a reply came from inside, Lana followed the butler in. What met her inside was a round blob with a humanish face ontop of it. Its face was greasy with blond hair that was borderline white. He wore minimal clothing with only underwear, yet despite them being slim fit the chracteristic bulge was not there. It must be too small. Heh thats hilarious considering the scumbag he is.


    [Baron]" Welcome Miss Lana, my name is Baron Lionel Trent as you already know. from this day forth, you''re mine."


    He licked his chapped lips and smiled with eyes full of lust and greed. It sent shivers down my spine, to my suprise even the butler next to me grimaced at the sight.


    [Baron]" Oh? Why are you so silent? I see you want to get down to the real stuff first then talk about serious stuff later."


    After saying that he glared at the butler and the butler slowly left the room. I didnt fail to notice the gaze of pity and sympathy the Butler sent me as he turned.


    [Baron]" Now then lay on then bed. I will strip you"


    I stood still. I wanted to prove that everything that was happening was nonconsensual. Much to my suprise the Baron smiled at my defiant attitude.


    [Baron]" HuehueHue I see playing hard to get ay? No matter, I will force you then"


    The Baron opened his drawer and pulled out two bracelets putting them on his wrists. When he did, his arms became enveloped in a blindingly red aura. My eyes opened wide, the object he was using for such despicable acts was often used by adventurer Monks since it used the users mana to directly increase their arms strength.


    [Baron]" I see you recognise these two. These are known as the Strength Invigorators. They''re high-class magic items which boost my strength by ten. You cannot defy me!"


    After shouting that he grabs my arms and throws me violently on the bed. The bed creaks from the impact but cushions my fall. When my disorientation from before clears up, I notice the Baron tearing at my clothes. My shirt and skirt are half torn while my underwear is on full display.


    [Baron]" I knew it. A luscious body, perfect to sate all of my desires."


    Tears rapidly fall down my face from the shame of having a man who I do not love see such an immodest state of mine. I peer downwards and notice a tiny bulge in his crotch area. Despite my own situation, even I can realise how pitiful that thing is.


    [Baron]" I see you want some since you keep looking at it. Behold this is your new lover"


    His breathing was ragged and his movements were frenzied as he hastily tried to remove his underwear. Once it was off he tossed them aside and slowly crept forward.


    I closed my eyes as I prepared for the horrific experience to happen. Ken''s face floated into my mind. Everything about him made my heart feel full. His smile, his laugh, the way he acts mature in every situation, the fact he takes care of me eventhough i''m older and most of all, the fact that I love him. I regret not telling him, I fear he saw me as a mother rather than a potential lover. I didnt want to ruin us. I should have listened to the Old Muscle Lady from the armor shop and taken him while I had the chance.


    [Baron]" Time to dig in, hehehehe"


    Time felt slow. The inevitable was about to happen yet all I could think of was one thing.


    [Lana]" Please... Please save me Ken"


    As if complying with Lanas request, a large earthshake spread across the masion. Multiple explosions occured followed by screaming. What is happening? Is it an attack? Both Lana and Lionel wondered such things yet never voiced it.


    Footsteps slowly approached the door in an almost unnatural slow pace.

 Divine Retribution At a Cost

    -Ken POV-


    My body feels heavy again. Honestly this feeling is getting annoying, it seems like it''s become a normal feeling considering the amount of time i''ve been at deaths door. While thinking such pointless things, I slowly open up my eyes.


    As I regain awareness, I notice that i''m still laid on the ground behind the Baron''s mansion.


    [Ken] " So I didn''t die then?"


    I groped around in search for my bow, as I was searching my hand stroked something soft. I jumped back out of fright.


    [Ken] "Oh thank god, it''s just a dead wolf... wait i''m pretty sure that''s not something to feel relieved about"


    I slowly crawled towards the corpse, not forgetting to remain vigilent of other attackers. As soon as I got within jumping range of the corpse, a loud voice sounded within my mind.


    "Black Wolf Beast Death Confirmation, Bottomless Greed Activated:


    Acquired Effect Skills: Sense Presence Lvl.2, Hide Presence Lvl.2


    Acquired Combat Skills: Penetration Lvl.1, Beastial Slash Lvl.2, Intimidation Lvl.2"


    [Ken]" Owowowow that hurt, what even was that?"


    It seemed to have been a direct message towards my mind. It said something about acquiring skills but honestly I have no idea as to what that even means. To start with, did it just say I had Bottomless Greed? Is my own mind picking a fight with me?


    As I was having a fight with my inner self, a screen appeared in-front of my eyes. The screen was translucent and would fade out of my vision if I didn''t focus on it.


    [Ken]" What is this? Is this me? It has my name and age"


    Ken Oswald


    Age: 15


    Occupation: None


    Titles: Gods Bane, xxxxxxxx


    Level: 2


    Base Stats:


    HP: 230


    MP: 450


    STR: 60


    AGI: 50


    INT: 55


    MGA: 50


    VIT: 60


    Skills:


    Effect Skills: (Skills which are constantly active providing effects to the user/others)


    Dark Magicka Resistance Lvl.1(NEW DGDP)


    Magicka Aptitude Lvl.MAX


    Sense Presence Lvl.2(NEW BW)


    Hide Presence Lvl.2(NEW BW)


    Combat Skills: (Skills which are used in combat, can be used outside however they''re most effective in battle)


    Basic Archery Lvl.3


    Power Shot Lvl.1


    Dark Sniping Lvl.2


    Basic Stealth Lvl.1


    Adept Hunting Lvl.2


    Forest Walker Lvl.2


    Collection Lvl.2


    Black Wolf Lvl.2


    Penetration Lvl.1(NEW BW)


    Beastial Slash Lvl.2(NEW BW)


    Intimidation Lvl.2(NEW BW)


    Production Skills: (Skills used to produce things)


    Blacksmithing Lvl.1


    Tool Maintenance Lvl.1


    Cooking Lvl.1


    Unique Skills: (Skills that are unique to an individual at any one time)


    Bottomless Greed Lvl.2


    Logger Lvl.2


    Magicka:


    Elemental Magicka:


    Dark Magicka Lvl.1(NEW DGDP)


    Dark Shot Lvl.1


    Light Magicka Lvl.1(NEW XXDP)


    Light Heal Lvl.1


    Divine Protections:


    Stolen Death God Bryak''s Protection


    xxxxxxxx Divine Protection


    [Ken]" So this is me? Is this my abilities? I don''t even remember learning magicka though, I guess this is the effect of those protections?"


    Of course no answer came to my question, well not that it matters. But what I am truly interested in is my unique skills. What could Logger be? A lumberjack skill?


    "Unique Skill Logger: This skill allows the user to see in-depth details of something, it is a superior skill of Appraisal. It bypasses most concealment skills."


    Eh? So it is an advanced appraisal? I suppose that''s the reason why I can see my abilities without getting appraised. Then what about Bottomless Greed? I suppose I wasn''t being insulted.


    "Unique Skill Bottomless Greed: This skill allows the user to take the skills off those who have died. The user must be within ten meters of the corpse. The skill will automatically scale overlevelled skills to the level of Bottomless Greed."


    [Ken]" Wait, wait, wait! Isn''t this one of those so called cheat skills?"


    This is just so much to take in but now isn''t the time for all of this self-debating. I need to get to Lana.


    I start running towards the mansion making sure to stick to the shadows. As I approach, I remember something. I have not been caught yet despite my novice infiltration experience. I wonder if it''s thanks to my hide presence skill that I have just got. I guess my turning 15 has really saved me since it unlocked all of my abilities. Well that''s what happens when you come of age in this world I suppose.


    It felt like hours but I have managed to make it to an open window, it seems to be the guest bedroom on the second floor. I climb up using the ledges on the stone works and slip inside.


    [Ken]" It''s so dark, that''s the door over there right?"


    I head towards the door and grab hold of the handle. The moment I held the door knob a shiver ran down my spine. Without thinking, I leapt backwards and reached for my bow.


    [???]" I had a feeling there was a rat in the mansion!"


    Brilliant I was discovered straight away. Let''s use Logger on this guy to see it''s effects on others than myself.


    Brad Wertz


    Age: 32


    Occupation: Soldier Captain, Mercenary


    Titles: None


    Level: 20


    Base Stats:


    HP: 300


    MP: 210


    STR: 110


    AGI: 100


    INT: 50


    MGA: 60


    VIT: 110


    Skills:


    Effect Skills: (Skills which are constantly active providing effects to the user/others)


    Co-ordination Lvl.2


    The author''s tale has been misappropriated; report any instances of this story on Amazon. Magicka Aptitude Lvl.1


    Sense Presence Lvl.2


    Body Strengthen Lvl.1


    Leadership Lvl.2


    Combat Skills: (Skills which are used in combat, can be used outside however they''re most effective in battle)


    Basic Swordplay Lvl.3


    Strong Slash lvl.3


    Earth Shatter Lvl.1


    Earthen Body Lvl.1


    Basic Scout Lvl.2


    Tracking Lvl.2


    Keen Eye Lvl.2


    Production Skills: (Skills used to produce things)


    Blacksmith Lvl.2


    Tool Maintenance Lvl.2


    Slow Repair Lvl.1                  ???????????????????????????????Cooking lvl.2


    Unique Skills: (Skills that are unique to an individual at any one time)


    Power Of Many


    Magicka:


    Elemental Magicka:


    Earth Magicka Lvl.1


    Earth Wall Lvl.1


    So he is a soldier and a captain to boot huh? Why could it not have been a simple butler or something nice like that.


    [Ken]" So what now? I can''t exactly just run along home so i''ll patiently ask you to let me get what I need please"


    [Captain]" Sorry you little brat, i''m sure my boss will want you especially since you''re related to that Lana Bitch"


    At the mention of Lana, anger spread throughout my whole body. My mind focused on one thing, that was to kill this man.


    [Ken]" Where is she?"


    Calm down Ken, I need to stay cool otherwise I will end up dead. If that happens then Lana will suffer.


    Clinging to the last of my rationality, I meanaged to control my anger before I got myself killed for carelessness.


    [Captain]" I''m sure right now the Baron is just about to begin toying with her, he tends to savor his food you see"


    The mans voice contained joy and condescension at the fact that I was here for Lana.


    [Captain]" I wonder how that bitch would react if I brought you to the Baron? I''m sure he would make you watch, he''s into that sort of stuff. He truly live''s up to his nickname of Home wrecker ahahaha"


    The captain was filled with joy at the events happening currently, he was dripping with confidence that only those who have survived many battles had. However his pride seems to be a bit too big.


    Without letting him continue, I grab my bow and fired at his head. The shot was fast and any normal person would have died. Contrary to that, the captain calmly lifted his sword and deflected the arrow.


    [Captain]" Getting angry kid? Well no matter, let''s get this over with before my shifts done"


    He rushed at me, within seconds he was before me and swinging at my shoulder. I instinctively dodged to the opposite side and rolled. His sword blade grazed my arm but missed. Refusing to give me anytime, he fixed his posture and launch three consecutive slashes of towards my legs and chest. While they narrowly missed, it seems he is trying to avoid mortally wounding me.


    [Captain]" Tch a fast brat huh, why not just give up? It''s less painful that way"


    As he said that, he yelled ''Strong Slash''. His sword glowed red as the skill activated. I jumped back as far as possible, the sword blade scratched my nose and blood flowed down my face. When his strike hit the ground, the wooden flooring shattered making the house rumble similar to an explosion.


    [Ken]" So much power, i''m pretty sure that overkill jackass"


    Irritation filled his face as his strongest skill was dodged by a child, he charged at me while shouting ''Earth Body'' and ''Strong Slash'', his movements slowed however his weight increased. Alarm bells rang in my mind realising I won''t survive this. On reflex I knocked an arrow and aimed, as I was going to shoot I remembered so something. A skill in my basic archery was different from normal skills. I loosed my arrow as I shouted.


    [Ken]" It''s all or nothing, DARK SNIPING!"


    The arrow cut throught the air and punctured the mans forehead despite the Earth body defense increase. The Captains body fell forward and blood dripped from his body.


    [Captain]" D..evil"


    His last words were short but they remained with me for a while. I guess the dark attribute is seen as bad to humans huh.


    Leaving the body I headed towards the door as a monotone voice echoed in my mind.


    "Brad Wertz Death Confirmation, Bottomless Greed Activated:


    Acquired Effect Skills: Sense Presence has risen to Lvl.3, Body Strengthen Lvl.1, Leadership Lvl.2, Co-ordination Lvl.2


    Acquired Combat Skills: Basic Swordplay Lvl.2, Strong Slash Lvl.1, Basic Scout Lvl.2, Tracking Lvl.2, Keen Eye lvl.2


    Acquired Production Skills: Blacksmith has risen to Lvl.2, Tool maintenance has risen to Lvl.2, Slow Repair Lvl.1


    Acquired Magicka: Earth Magicka Lvl.1


    Acquired Unique Skill: Power of Many Lvl.1"


    Wow ok that was a lot for one guy. I guess it''s because his occupation needed for him to learn those skills. Wait I have no time to check this.


    I rushed out of the door and head to the end of the hall. The mansion seems deserted, maybe the rumbling scared everyone away. Less witnesses means it''s easier to flee so I am not complaining.


    I arrive about 2 meters from the door and walk slowly but loudly to declare my presence to the other party, this may seem dumb but its helping me keep calm so I prefer that. As I open the door, the sight of a round slime like being pushing down a half-naked Lana fills my vision.


    [Baron]" W-who are you?!?!"


    [Lana]" K-ken! Is it really you?"


    Two separate reactions to the situation. I enter the room and close the door behind me.


    [Ken]" Oi Pig. Move out of the way"


    I activate intimidation and the baron falls on his ass and crawls to the edge of the room.


    [Baron]" You cretin! Don''t get cocky and die!"


    He grabs an ornamental sword from the wall and charges. He''s slow, so slow. My eyes follow his every movement. I grab my bow and mutter ''Dark Sniping''. The released arrow cuts through the air with a black trail and blows half of the barons head away.


    I stand in the middle of the room with my mouth hanging wide open. It doesn''t fit the mood but this situation itself is bizzare.


    [Ken]" Was he just way weaker or was that shot more powerful?"


    [Lana]" What was that Ken? Wait no! Why did you come here! Why? Why?"


    Lana rushed at me and grabbed my clothes as tears streamed down her face. I hugged her tightly until she started to calm down. She separated from me, the warmth we had was slowly lost and a hint of disappointment filled my expression.


    [Ken]" We need to get going, we have to move away from town. Are you coming with me?"


    I had to ask, I just murdered an aristocrat. That penalty is either slavery or a death sentence so my only option will be to run since I doubt that Lana won''t be suspected.


    [Lana]" Of course i''m coming, I want you to come with me"


    [Ken]" That was the plan from the start, let''s go"


    I picked her up and jumped from the window. In the distance the sound of guards running around could be heard.


    In my mind the monotone voice spoke.


    "Lionel Trent Death Confirmation, Bottomless Greed Activated:


    Acquired Production Skills: Merchant Lvl.2, Etiquette Lvl.2, Negotiation lvl.2, High-Speed Calculation Lvl.1


    Acquired Magicka: Fire Magicka Lvl.2"


    That guy was really weak then, maybe nobles are weaker since they barely do anything like fighting at the frontlines or even hunting for that matter. Well a guy with the physique of a slime could not be said as strong anyways.


    We ran to the house and quickly collected our essentials, we took our savings and locked the door. It took around 2 hours to get back in a full sprint while it tooks 20 minutes to gather our stuff. With our excess time, I visited the weapon shop.


    As I approached, the lights flickered on and someone came out.


    [Muscle Granpa]" You''re here boy, how''s the girl?"


    [Ken]" She seems fine physically but emotionally she seems vulnerable"


    [Muscle Grandpa]" Fulfill your job as her man and everything will be fine as time passes my boy, now why are you here?"


    [Ken]" I have a request and a parting gift, I would like to buy two steel daggers and a new bow please"


    As I asked him for the items, I handed him enough money for it all. He went inside and got two daggers made of blood steel and a bow made of spirit wood.


    [Ken]" Hold on this is way too expensive I can''t accept these"


    [Muscle Grandpa]" Consider it a loan, make it big boy and come back for business later on"


    At the Grandpa''s obvious attempts to persuade me I gave in and thanked him for his consideration. After saying goodbye I threw him a small bag, inside contained Mana gems of B and one A rank monster. These will be worth enough to feed a common family for 6 months. I sprinted away before I could hear a rejection and headed to Lana.


    The sun was slowly rising as me and Lana walked side by side in silence along the dirt path. The village was slowly becoming smaller. I looked at Lana and our eyes met, I gently smiled and said ''It''s okay''. She grabbed my hand and smiled back.


    I wonder what our future together will hold, regardless i will never let go of this hand.

 Journey Away from Home

    The sun was slowly going up. Since leaving town we have not spoken about the incident however we cannot keep avoiding it. At the next break, I approach Lana.


    [Ken]" Hey, are you feeling a bit better now?"


    [Lana]" Yeah i''m better now, it was scary but it''s over now. Besides Ken came to my rescue, you were quite the white knight"


    [Ken]" Leaving you to a guy like him wasn''t an option ahahaha"


    As I said those words, my cheeks tinged red and I looked away. I didn''t fail to notice Lana look down with bright red ears.


    [Lana]" Hey Ken what was that black arrow you used?"


    Despite still having red ears, Lana''s face turned slightly serious and asked me a question. It has probably been on her mind since the beginning. There''s no point hiding it from Lana.


    [Ken]" Promise me you will keep it a secret."


    [Lana]" I promise."


    Though the reply was short, her conviction was shown in more ways than words could.


    [Ken]" I have a magicka called Dark Magicka, I used my Unique Skill Logger to see. It seems to have come from a divine protection. "


    [Lana]" Dark Magicka?? Isn''t that the magicka that those demons use? Wait what god gave you a divine protection?!"


    Lana lost her cool instantly and fired a barrage of questions. However not a hint of fear or repulsion could be felt from her. I smiled gently at her and hugged her.


    [Ken]" Thank you Lana for not leaving me after hearing that. Yes it is the same magicka as those savages, my Logger say''s I have two divine protections. One from a Death God though it says I stole it, while the other is unreadable."


    [Lana]" You stole a divine protection?! Well I knew you were not normal since you rescued me. Let''s leave that talk for another day, I have a request. Could you tell me my status? Its been so long since I have been to the guild to get myself appraised"


    [Ken]" You can''t get appraised elsewhere?"


    [Lana]" No you can''t, it seem''s like the country and guild prohibit those with the appraisal skill working outside of the guild or courts."


    I nodded my head at Lana''s explanation. It was probably a method used to monitor people within the country. While I was thinking about that, I activated Logger and concentrated on Lana.


    Lana


    Age: 28


    Occupation: Adventurer, Apprentice Merchant


    Titles: None


    Level: 10


    Base Stats:


    HP: 660


    MP: 470


    STR: 60


    AGI: 95


    INT: 80


    MGA: 75


    VIT: 60


    Skills:


    Effect Skills: (Skills which are constantly active providing effects to the user/others)


    Awareness Lvl.3


    Presence Detect Lvl.3


    Hide Presence Lvl.2


    Magic Aptitude Lvl.3


    Poison Resistance Lvl.4


    Combat Skills: (Skills which are used in combat, can be used outside however they''re most effective in battle)


    Adept Daggery Lvl.4


    Instant Slash Lvl.3


    Critical Slash Lvl.2


    Duel Blade Strike Lvl.3


    Wind Dagger Slash Lvl.1


    Basic Stealth Lvl.4


    Shadow Walk lvl.2


    Infiltrator Lvl.1


    Adept Evasion Lvl.2


    Quick Reaction Lvl.1


    Production Skills: (Skills used to produce things)


    Merchant Lvl.2


    Negotiation Lvl.1


    Appraisal Lvl.1


    Cooking Lvl.3


    Magicka:


    Elemental Magicka:


    Light Magicka Lvl.1


    Wind Magicka Lvl.3


    Aerosteps Lvl.2


    Air Slash Lvl.2


    Cross-Wind Strike Lvl.3


    Earth Magicka Lvl.2


    Earth Wall Lvl.2


    Sunken Ground Lvl.1


    I read out the contents to Lana as she nodded her head. I was suprised at the trained stats despite her low level. It seemed she had the potential to surpass that captain easily.


    [Lana]" That sound''s about right. You look suprised, I was a former adventurer you know though I am more inclined towards the scout role of a party"


    [Ken]" I was just shocked at the large amount of potential you have"


    [Lana]" If life didn''t throw obstacles in my way then I would probably be at least level 30 right now, but now i''m with you Ken i''m sure I can surpass that easily"


    She smiled brightly at me causing my cheeks to redden.


    Our time passes slowly as we continue to walk along the path, we have yet to be attacked by Demon Beasts so we leisurely chat about random topics to pass time.


    On the 5th day of our journey, we encountered our first foe. In the outskirts of the Deaths Feeding Grounds, a large grey bear charged at us. It''s limbs we''re muscular as they could be seen clearly from many meters away. Two protruding fangs hung out from it''s mouth when it was closed.


    As it charged, the ground below it shook. It swung it''s claws down on Lana but she dodged it elegently and slashed at the bears chest. Blood came out from the contact between blade and skin. The bear howled in pain and backed away. Not missing this opening I let go of an arrow and muttered ''Dark Sniping''. The arrow flew straight and pierced the bear in the head.


    [Lana]" Nice shot, we make a good team if I do say so myself"


    [Ken]" I second that, if it wasn''t for your slash I would not have had an opening"


    [Lana]" But still, to think we can bring down an A-rank Demon Beast with just us two. It usually take 4 C-Class Adventurers to even fight equally"


    [Ken]" Oh yeah I forgot to ask you, what rank are you at the guild"


    [Lana]" I am C-Rank though I was close to a promotion. If you sign up you will be E-Rank so you need to work hard, for yourself and for me"


    After saying that Lana walked over towards the bear without looking back and started to take apart the Bear for it''s valuable parts. I followed her, when I approached the bear a dull voice echoed inside my head again.


    "Terror Bear Beast Death Confirmation, Bottomless Greed Activated:Enjoying the story? Show your support by reading it on the official site.


    Acquired Effect Skills: Body Strengthen has risen to lvl.2


    Acquired Combat Skills: Penetration has risen to lvl.2, Reckless Charging Lvl.2


    Acquired Magicka: Earth Magicka has risen to lvl.2, Earth Wall has risen to lvl.2"


    I see, well it''s good that earth magicka is increasing. I wonder how normal people learn earth magicka.


    [Ken]" Hey Lana, how do you normally learn magicka?"


    Lana stopped what she was doing and looked at me.


    [Lana]" First they need to touch an Identifier Orb which shows their aptitudes then they will have to at least a year reading about the magicka to activate it. After that they will have to train with the activated magicka daily until they can finally use it freely."


    Isn''t this skill to much of a cheat? For some reason I feel hollow inside now.


    [Ken]" Thank you, it seem''s I can use a few magicka despite not learning it, its probably because of my unique skill."


    [Lana]" WAIT WHAT? Did you say you can use it? As in magicka other than your divine protections? Logger helped you learn?"


    [Ken]" Calm down Lana, the magicka I can use are Earth, Fire, Dark and Light. But no, it isn''t Logger. I have 3 Unique skills currently. the one that helped me was Bottomless Greed."


    [Lana]" Three Unique Skills? Usually it is rare to find people with even one! What kind of skill is this Bottomless Greed?"


    [Ken]" It allows me to take the skills from a corpse."


    [Lana]" Ken. Never tell anyone you don''t trust about that. Your life will be a living hell."


    Taken aback from Lana''s change in attitude I gulped and nodded. It was all I could do in face of her worried expression. Her mature charm coupled with her mahogany coloured eyes captivated me.


    [Lana]" Do you understand Ken?"


    [Ken]" Y-yes, I only told you because I trust you completely Lana"


    Lana''s eyes went wide from the unexpected attack. She quickly hid her face and resumed dissecting the bear. I helped her and we finished it within minutes.


    The sun was long gone from the sky, we sat around a small fire with a single tent behind us. Silence filled our surroundings. Lana looked up at me and spoke with a hint of anxiety.


    [Lana]" Hey Ken why did you save me?"


    [Ken]" Isn''t it a bit late to ask a stupid question?"


    [Lana]" I know, I just want to know the answer."


    She looked down at her hands, I followed her. My sight showed her hands lightly trembling. I sat up straight and looked directly at her.


    [Ken]" As corny as it sounds, I don''t want to give you to another man."


    A tone of embarressment filled my words but I said them strongly. Lana turned to me with her mouth agape and eyes slightly watery.


    [Lana]" You, what do you mean?"


    Her voice trembled but she maintained eye contact making sure not to miss a single moment.


    [Ken]" God don''t make me explain, its embarressing. I don''t want to give you to anyone else, in simpler terms I want you to be mine"


    Despite my rough way of saying it, the message reached Lana and tears slowly fell from her eyes.


    [Ken]" Wait don''t cry, I didn''t want to make you cry!"


    While I was panicking, Lana smiled sweetly at me and stood up. She slowly walked over to where I was sitting and sat next to me. The distance between us was non-existant as she placed her head on my shoulder.


    [Lana]" Stupid, I am happy. So happy that I cried. I wanted to say that to you but the boy I like said it to me first, of course I would be happy"


    I placed my hand on her hair and ran my finger through it. It was soft and pleasant.


    [Ken]" I take it you accept then"


    Lana removed her head and looked up at me. Confusion filled my mind as her silence continued.


    As I was about to speak, her face closed in on mine and my mind went blank. After a few seconds, my thinking came back and I realised what was happening. We were kissing. Knowing that I brought my hand behind her head and held her as our kiss continued. Our tongue''s explored each others mouths as our hands crept across each others bodies.


    After what felt like hours, Lana stared at me with glazey eyes.


    [Lana]" That''s my answer Ken, it is the only answer I would ever give you"


    I grabbed her shoulder and kissed her again. This kiss lasted longer. Our night continued like that until the early hours of the morning. We decided to wait from going further until we were at town.


    Our journey continues, it''s been two days since I have started dating Lana. Not much has changed, except that there is no distance between us anymore. We walk along the dirt trail with our hands together. Recently we have seen more people on the trail, the gazes we recieve from others are not exactly pleasant. Probably because we are getting closer to the town, there is very few monsters around. Since the bear we have not been attacked once.


    After scaling a small hill, a large grey structure fills our view. An imposing atmosphere surrounds the structure.


    [Lana]" That''s Castium City. It is a fortress city known for it''s sturdy defense."


    [Ken]" True, that wall feels almost like an unbreakable barrier"


    [Lana]" Since it''s construction 400 years ago, it has never fallen. Honestly at this point it feels like the safest part of the kingdom"


    [Ken]" Is the immigration tough then?"


    [Lana]" Not really, you need to show ID or pay the toll of 30 Coppers each. It''s quite expensive for a commoner so it lowers the chance of misbehaviour"


    [Ken]" Oh I see, well we should have enough for the both of us"


    [Lana]" I have ID though so it is only 30 Copper"


    [Ken]" Stupid, you can''t use your ID anymore. We will be tracked for the Baron''s death."


    [Lana]" Oh right, well I should be able to get the name changed on my adventurers card. I have a friend here after all. we will have to pay the 60 coppers first though"


    [Ken]" It''s fine, it is a good investment. I''m sure we will make that back easily"


    [Lana]" Well a typical C-Rank quest gives roughly 80 coppers so that''s 40 coppers each."


    [Ken]" Problem solved. After I register we will form a party"


    We approached the gate and spoke to the guards.


    [Ken]" We would like to enter please"


    [Guard]" Show us your ID"


    [Ken]" We don''t have any"


    [Guard]" 30 coppers each then lad, can you pay?"


    I handed the guard the money and he let us through.


    [Guard]" Kid be careful, the city is on edge recently. I can''t say why but the top brass are being extremely vigilant"


    [Ken]" Thank you Sir, I will be careful"


    We waved goodbye to the Guard and headed into the city.


    Before our eyes were stone buildings with wooden supports built into them. Compared to the village we are from the people walking about seemed like a tidal wave. Merchant were advertising whilst guards patrolled the streets.


    [Ken]" Where to first Lana? The Inn or the Guild?"


    [Lana]" Probably the Guild. We get a discount at inns if we register as adventurers"


    [Ken]" Off we go then, lead the way"


    I grabbed hold of Lana''s hand and she led us towards the guild building. The building was at least 3 times bigger than the commercial buildings in the surroundings, the double doors were polished wood with two banners with a sword and shield on the them.


    [Ken]" So this is the guild right? It''s a lot more civilised than I thought it would be"


    [Lana]" This city helped with the guild building so it is a lot more developed. trust me, a guild like this is rare"


    I gently push open the doors and walk in. The moment I step in, multiple sets of eyes stare at me. Ignoring the stares, I walk towards the counter.


    [Ken]" I would like to register please"


    The receptionist quickly straightens his back and grabs a registration form.


    [Receptionist]" Please fill out this form"


    I enter the required fields and hand the form back to the receptionist.


    [Receptionist]" Thank you, in a few minutes you will need to take a combat exam and guild lecture. Both are short but necessary for the guilds registration. What about your companion?"


    [Lana]" I would like to meet someone please. His name is Gareth Holde the guildmaster. Please tell him L is here."


    [Receptionist]" Sure? I will let him know now?"


    Both me and the receptionist were confused. He left to the back. A few minutes later an old man with a muscular build entered from the doorway.


    [Gareth]" Long time no see runt. You''ve grown since the time I was training you."


    [Lana]" Thank you Gareth, I have a request. Its important so may we talk about it elsewhere?"


    Gareth nodded gently and guided us into a free room at the back. The room seemed to be his office since paperwork was piled in every corner of the desk.


    [Gareth]" Let''s cut the pleasantries, what''s your request?"


    [Lana]" You haven''t changed. I need you to reprint my guild ID but with a different name on the records"


    [Gareth]" What did you do?"


    [Lana]" It''s best not to ask, all I ask is that you issue me a new C-Rank ID with the name Lanavelle. Being known as Lana in the guild records will likely be the end of me and Ken here"


    [Gareth]" Fine. I will help you out but don''t do anything stupid."


    [Gareth]" Now then, let''s deal with you. You said you were Ken right?"


    His eyes became cold and sharp as he stared at me.