《White Queen Ascending》


 Chapter 1 Caged

    Plop.. plop..


    Only the dripping sound of water from the tattered ceiling could be heard inside a small, dark room.


    Filths and excrements of human are scattered on the side. The putrid smell could cause anyone with weak stomach to puke their guts out, but it seems that the person inside is already immune to the disgusting state of the place.


    Heavy iron chains, that are specially created to make the person shackled to be unable to use magic, ties the small feet of a little girl, about the age of eight.


    Staring at the steel bars that obstructs her from her freedom, she looks there in a daze, as she lie on the corner of the room.


    Her rare white hair could cause anyone who sees them to take another glance, but it is not her hair that makes her exceptional. It is her deep black eyes. They are so deep, so dark, so unfathomable, that you could actually feel a deathly chill if you look at them carefully.


    The little girl has a beautiful face. Almost like a doll displayed on the shelves of toy stores. Her small little nose are so cute, you''d want to pinch them. Her lips, though pale and chapped, still looks adorable. It is too bad that her countenance were completely hidden by dirt and no one could appreciate it.


    She closed her eyes. She has to sleep and rest while she can. Tomorrow, she''ll have to fight like a mad dog again to keep her negligible life and existence.


    This child, has to entertain those scum who loves to gamble their money on who would come out alive between two children. Who knows who she''s going to fight with tomorrow?


    She slept soundly as her even breathing could be heard, but the poor little girl didn''t dream.. again. Even dreams seemed to have left her, like those people who brought her into this hell. She always sleep dreamless. Nightmares as well, didn''t visit her. From the day she entered this room, like the family she used to have, dreams left her too.


    The morning has just started when the sound of metals banging echoed, and a ''click'' sound was heard as the lock of the steel bar was removed.


    An old man with an evil look entered the little girl''s room. He frowned as he covered his crooked nose with his right hand. Disgust could be completely spelled out over his ugly face.


    "Wake up stupid girl. Time to earn some money again." He said with a muffled voice as he kicked her repeatedly.


    The girl groaned as her eyes trembled. She winced a bit by the sudden exposure to light and then stared blankly at the man who woke her up, still unable to figure out what''s happening. Before she could even think, the chains on her feet was already removed as a new one attached on her neck replaced it.


    The man grabbed the chains as he pulled her up and walked outside, not caring about how the girl stumbled again and again.A case of theft: this story is not rightfully on Amazon; if you spot it, report the violation.


    "Hurry up!" The old man shouted. "Useless thing."


    They walked for a while, until an open space greeted the two. The place was filled with countless of people, with the aristocrats forming the majority. They seemed to have grouped themselves based on their social standings. Some group wears very luxurious clothes, pretending to be high above everyone. Some group, though wears much simpler things, still gave off a nobler aura. Each of them talks softly, but their noses were all pointed to the sky.


    No reaction could be seen on the girl''s face. It seemed like she''s already familiar with how things work here.


    Suddenly, the man who''s clutching her chains, smirked and said quietly while observing those people, "I can already feel the gold in my hands."


    He brought her up to a cage then took the chains off of her neck, and left an iron collar attached on them.


    "You better fight properly and provide a good show." He said as she pushed her inside.


    She didn''t answer the man and only stared at the opponent in front of her.


    A small boy stood there, his hands were shaking heavily, obviously scared of what''s going to happen.


    She remembers this guy. He was someone who''s been recently sold in this place for money. She remembered him, for he has the same look as her when she entered here at that time. Naive, he was completely naive. He glances curiously around with complete innocence, not knowing that his life has already been sold to others. But now, although he''s still scared, his eyes already contains madness inside. Innocence has completely left him.


    They stared at each other for a while, until a voice was heard, announcing the start of the fight. Heavy cheering was all over the place.


    The small boy rushed towards her with reddish eyes, intending to put her down. But she just stood there calmly in her place waiting for him to come. When the boy was already by her reach, she suddenly extended her hands, grabbing his hair and then smashed his face heavily to the cage. Blood tricked down his head as he struggled from her grasps. He managed to kick her stomach, but the girl just grunted a bit. Clearly, not affected by much. She became mad by this sudden attack. Not letting go of the other child''s hair, she continued smashing his head on the cage. She gnarled and then reached her other hand towards the boys left eye, removing them from their sockets. The boy shouted in pain and cried loudly, while gasping and astonishment could be heard from the audience.


    The little boy lost his will to fight and just repeatedly shouted, "No! Don''t kill me! Ha-have mercy! Please!" He cried and cried, his snot falling down his nose.


    "Mercy huh?" She laughed softly as she kicked his stomach, making him lie down on the floor. The kid no longer speaks, his breathing too weak.


    She bent down both her knees as she looked condescendingly at the boy. "We don''t have that here." She said with a childish voice. She smirked evilly then took the other eye from his face. She stood back up and then gave another kick to the now, lifeless boy.


    Another man entered the cage, hurriedly putting chains on her neck. He looked scared, as he avoid looking at her eyes and her bloody hands that still has the boy''s right eye.


    He then went to the boy''s body and confirmed that he''s already dead. Shouting could be heard from the people. Although they all looked terrified, they still wore smiles on their pale faces. Some lost in betting, while some won. Regardless, they seemed to have enjoyed the show.


    "Someday, I''ll rise." The girl whispered as she was again being dragged towards her room.


    "What?" The man in front asked her, not being able to hear what she said.


    She didn''t answer and just smiled at him like a harmless little kid, making the man felt goosebumps all over his body.


    ''I''ll rise and turn the world upside down.'' she continued in her young mind.

 Chapter 2 Amias Devin

    The old man who took the girl out from her room, saw her being dragged back again. He walked towards them and snatched the chain from the other guy.


    "Still alive aren''t ya?" He grinned exposing his yellowish teeth.


    She glanced at the man then ignored him.


    He instantly became irritated by her disregard, he grabbed her collar and lifted her up. "Cocky now huh." He touched her face with his other hand then suddenly spit towards her.


    She glared at him, hissing.


    "What? You''ll bite me?" He laughed loudly. "Thank me, for I am in a good mood or else.." he glanced at her thin body before adding, "You''ll entertain our guests in another way. Tut-tut a lot of them likes playing with little children ha ha ha!"


    He gave her one last punch in the stomach before returning the chains back to the other servant and ordered, "No food today."


    "Aye." The guy said, then continued to walk away, roughly pulling the girl as she writhes up in pain.


    Back in the familiar dark room, she crawled back to her corner. She lifted her shirt and looked at her skeleton-like body that now has a protruded broken bone. Her face darkened at the sight. Although it would heal on its own, with the girl''s malnourished body, and the condition of this filthy place, who knows when it''ll return to normal.


    She closed her hands tightly, imagining in her mind how she would dismember the old man. Then she slowly loosen her fists and just sat quietly to take a rest.


    "He-hello?" A boy said with a hushed voice..


    The little girl who''s curled up in the corner, slowly opened her eyes. She looked straight to the boy outside the steel bars who seemed to be just a bit older than her.


    She silently observed the boy''s appearance. He has messy black hair, round purple eyes, clean set of eyebrows, straight nose, and a full red lips. He is wearing a dusty garb and an old oversized cloak.


    When the boy sees that she didn''t plan to say anything, he added "Are you hungry?" He scratched his head. "Here, I have an extra piece of bread. It''s a bit dirty, I hope you don''t mind." He wiped his dirty hands on his cloak then reached for his pockets and he carefully extended them to the girl.


    The girl coldy looked at him, not even bothering to take the bread from him.


    "Uh, I forgot." He said while retracting his hand. "My name is Amias. My father used to work as a servant here but he died in an accident. I am here as replacement." He mumbled softly with a somehow sad voice and then continued his monologue, "I saw your fight a while ago and what happened after.. were you hurt?"


    The girl then chose to close her eyes, not caring about him anymore.


    "Oh." Amias now turned completely speechless. "I... I''ll left this here." He cleaned the floor a bit, then placed the bread there. He casted a final glance at the girl before turning his back to leave.


    When his footsteps can no longer be heard across the room, the girl once again opened up her eyes. Maybe because of the darkness, or maybe it was just an illusion, but her eyes looked as if a white light flashed from there.


    "Stupid" She said.


    Suddenly, a rat sneakily came out from the wall''s cavity, carefully treading it''s path towards the food. The girl then slowly stood up and the chains holding her feet rustled, scaring the little thing away. She looked at the escaping rat, picked up a small pebble then flicked it. Though it was done casually, it actually pierced through the rats body, leaving a small hole in its stomach.


    She took the bread from the ground and sniffed it a bit. She cut it into two, keeping the half aside, before munching the other one.


    "Should have left water too." She complained with a full mouth.


    A few minutes later, a man dragging a boy ruthlessly came into view. The boy being dragged around was beaten up and weak. Although it was obviously painful, he''s still gritting his teeth, with no intention of crying.This novel''s true home is a different platform. Support the author by finding it there.


    "Heh, wanting to help her? How about you accompany her here?" The man sneered. Then looked at the girl inside, "Little girl, you have a new roommate, aren''t you happy? Ha ha" his laugh was too ugly in the ears.


    "Amias, oh Amias ha! Stay here for a while and be a good kid." He opened the steel bar and pushed him inside, making him stumble and fall towards the girl.


    But the girl just casted him aside and continued lying down lazily.


    After a long period of silence, Amias, having somehow recovered, slowly sat back up. He curiously glanced at the girl and then looked at the area where he put the bread before. He smiled, looking foolish with all the bruises in his face and said, "Glad, you''ve eaten."


    The girl halfly opened her eyes then ordered him with a childish but croaky voice, "Sleep" then closed her eyes once more.


    Amias nodded, and not too long after, he was already sleeping.


    The sun has risen but no fresh morning breeze was emanating in the air. The dew, instead further, enhanced the foul odor inside the room.


    The girl still kept on sleeping, but the boy was already awake.


    A rumbling noise could be heard from the stomach of Amias as he gulped his saliva down.


    Then a sigh of the girl was heard inside. It seemed that she was already awake for quite some time but pretended she wasn''t. She took out the bread that she hid yesterday and passed it on to the guy wordlessly.


    Seeing half of the bread he gave to her being offered to him now, he felt thankful.


    He started to eat the bread and it soon was devoured quickly. He rubbed his mouth with his sleeves then asked,


    "You know I''d get beaten up right?"


    He saw her looking at him with a gaze that meant like, ''Atleast you weren''t too stupid.''


    He chuckled and said, "I''d still do it anyway even if I knew about it."


    She was surprised for a second, then hid her reaction instantly.


    "Can I ask for your name?" Amias again asked.


    He thought that she won''t speak again, and decided to talk randomly. But when he was about to open his mouth, he heard the girl saying beside him


    "I am nameless."


    Amias didn''t talk and stayed silent for a while, sensing the heartache in her voice.


    A while after he blurted out, "Your hair is like a light in this dark room.." He stared at her then added, "Luciana. Can I call you Luciana?"


    She softly mumbled, "Light... Luciana..."


    ''I am not worthy of that name.'' she felt bitter inside but also felt something she could not explain. He gave her a name, an identity. It was the first kindness she received in her life.


    She asked herself, ''Are there really kind-hearted people in this place?''


    Her silence meant approval for the boy. His purple eyes sparked brightly. His face that is filled with bruise and dried-up blood, produced a wide childish smile.


    "It is my, Amias Devin''s honor, to meet you Luciana." He formally said.


    ~~


    It''s been two days since Amias was dumped here with the girl, Luciana, and yet, he still do not find himself getting tired of talking.


    "How could you live in such a malodored place? Even I, who has lived in utter poverty couldn''t stand the stench in here." He said, spitting out saliva while speaking.


    Luciana just chose to ignore his complaints. If she actually replied to this guy, who knows how long will he keep extending the conversation.


    "Luciana, do you really not have any more food hidden? Urghhh! My stomach keeps on complaining. Say? Would I die like this?"


    Amias ceaseless monologue kept the always silent room loud for two days now. The girl also no longer feel much aversion towards this loquacious boy, and started accepting his presence. She even reply sometimes to his babbling, though, by still a few words.


    "Shut that mouth." She said.


    Amias made an ''i am wronged'' face but still did as she said and closed his mouth... for a bit, before talking again.


    "Do you want to leave this place?" He suddenly said, looking very serious this time.


    The girl silently looked at the child beside her.


    ''I do, I really do.'' she said in her heart.


    No matter how much she matured because of all her ugly circumstances, she was still but a kid. She wanted to experience how to play, like those children in her age. She wanted to be like a proper child too, but she kept it all hidden. Her dreams has long been forgotten in this filthy, little room. If there would be a time where she can already leave this place, that would be when she became strong enough. Strong enough to annihilate every single person who contributed to her sufferings. Only after that, would she have the right to dream again.


    "I.. I will help you leave here." He blurted out.


    Luciana was stupefied by this guy. She hurriedly stood up and peaked outside, making sure no one heard him before turning around and glared at him.


    "I promise you.." he declared.


    "Stop!" She snapped making him avoid her gaze.


    He stopped completely this time around. But in his pure little heart, he already vowed to save his friend from this hell.


    It was silent afterwards. No one spoke. The talkative boy kept his lips sealed, even as the metal banging was heard again, and the steel bar was being opened to let him come out.


    He just glanced at Luciana and said inwardly, ''wait for me, I''ll make sure that you''d come out from here as well.'' before leaving the room.

 Chapter 3 Escaped

    When Amias was gone, the girl felt alone again. Only the silence would accompany her once more.


    She slept, woke up, sat in a daze, ate the small amount of food delivered then slept again. It was her normal life cycle when she''s not out, killing other kids.


    A few more days has gone, but Amias didn''t come back. She felt a bit worried, for this place is not safe at all, even for servants.


    Suddenly, loud shouting could be heard.


    "Fire! Put out the Fire!"


    Commotion broke out outside. People were either busy running away or busy pouring out water. A fire like this could be easily taken out, only if there is someone who could use strong water magic. A pity, there is none.


    The girl noticed someone entering her place. Amias who was able to find a chance to sneakily went inside, was seen by her. She looked at the axe he''s carrying. She shivered strongly when she realized what he wanted to do.


    "Don''t! Leave now!" She pleaded. But the little boy, didn''t follow her words this time.


    "Shh, it is fine." He then swung the axe to the locks of the steel gate with all his strength.


    He managed to crack them open, then hurriedly pushed the steel bars and went near Luciana. He swung the axe again, breaking the chains on her feet before finally looking at his friend, who is now looking terrified, with a rare loss of composure.


    "I promised to help you." He gently smiled at her. "Let''s take this chance to leave before they find out we''re gone."


    He removed his cloak, and covered her white long hair, then took the girls hand, pulling her as he run towards the exit.


    They checked out the surroundings before swiftly leaving. They tried to be inconspicuous as possible trying not to arouse unwanted attention.


    The people around the vicinity today are only composed of normal citizens and slaves.


    Though everyone has magic in their blood, only five percent could awaken it. This is why the social classes exist, so the number of magic users would continue to increase. Bloodlines could help, albeit minimal, increase the chance of awakening.


    Royals and Aristocrats have purer bloodline compared to the normal citizens. They make sure that their bloodlines could be passed on to their descendants. This ''noble'' people only allows each of their family members to marry with the same or higher purity of bloodline.


    The normal citizens on the other hand, although there are a few who could still awaken magic, the probability is much lesser in contrast to the nobilities, while most of the slaves couldn''t awaken the magic in their blood.


    Of course awakening doesn''t only rely on bloodlines. Someone might just be fated enough to develop magic. There are a lot of cases where nobles couldn''t awaken magic while there are few normal citizens and slaves who could awaken them.


    Magic has different types: fire, water, earth, wind. There are also rare ones such as light and dark.


    Amias and Luciana were running nonstop when a man saw them.


    "You! Stop right there!" He shouted.If you spot this tale on Amazon, know that it has been stolen. Report the violation.


    Both of the kids were terrified, but they still kept on running.


    "I said stop!" The man shouted again.


    His shouts were heard by other people. When they noticed the two children running away, they figured out what''s happening.


    They called the others and ran to catch up with them.


    "Run! Run faster!" Amias kept on telling the girl.


    The girl didn''t answer and just run with all her strength. She knew that if they failed to escape this time, their endings wouldn''t be good.


    She''s casting a concerned look at the guy who''s tightly holding her hands. He is the first person to show kindness to her. He gave her food when she''s hungry, he gave her a name, he treated her like a real person, and now, he''s even helping her escape.


    ''This life, I owe you.'' She said in her heart. She looked at their back. There are already people running after them. She is so scared now, even more scared when she first entered the bloody cage and killed someone. If this guys were to catch them, she''s aware that death for them would be mercy.


    They ran and ran, huffing and puffing at the same time. When the vast forest was already on sight, a man pushing a cart filled with barrels appeared, blocking their way.


    "Go fast. Please!" Amias begged him. Both of them panicked. The guys pursuing them might be able to catch up to them anytime.


    The man looked at them for a while, before continuing to push his cart allowing them to pass through.


    When they saw the pathway being opened, they rejoiced and continued their escape.


    "We can make it." Amias said gripping Luciana''s hand even more tightly.


    "Um." The girl nodded.


    But the slight interruption of their escape, made the men back, lessen the distance they have towards them.


    The two can already hear their shouting. Luciana''s eyes now carried mist. Even Amias hands were already trembling.


    Suddenly they felt their feet burrow a bit. The ground where they were running turned muddy.


    Their speed obviously went slower. Amias realized, that they won''t be able to leave this time.


    "I am sorry" he said. Tears were streaming down his face.


    "Keep running, I''ll slow them down." He continued with a brittle voice.


    Luciana looked at him and replied, "I will help you."


    "What can you do? You can''t use magic with the iron still dangling on your feet." Besides, Amias think that even if she has magic, it would be weak. How could a slave be powerful? He thought.


    "No. I can fight." She insisted.


    "Stop and listen to me!" Amias shouted at her. "I.. I have strong fire magic." He added, "I''ll be able to stop them for a while."


    Luciana was shocked by what he said. ''Strong fire magic.. Right! Amias had a surname!'' she remembered. ''He is a noble!'' the girl realized, since only nobles could have surnames in this kingdom.


    Noticing the realization on her face Amias face turned gentle and continued to convince her. "Believe in me okay? Just run." Then he pushed her forward, letting her hand go.


    Luciana looked at him for a while, before she continued running.


    The man from the gambling house arrived near the boy.


    Fire instantly enveloped his hands. He looked at their pursuers with hatred. He can''t use his magic too well. He was only able to awaken it recently, therefore he couldn''t really control it properly.


    "I''ll kill you!!" He shouted. Amias flames are bright red.. beautiful red.


    "Damn you kid! It was you who set the fire!" One of the guys realized.


    "Shit! Shit! Shit!" The other cursed out.


    But the other guy sneered.


    "Do you think you can escape with just that?" He mocked coldly.


    The boy felt really dejected, but he remembered that the girl is still running behind his back. ''I have to stop them longer.''


    He rushed towards the men, aiming to catch them unprepared. Sadly, they weren''t and one guy managed to kick his back. Amias'' hand was immediately blazed in bright red as he counter attacked by punching him on his chest. The man was instantly wrapped in vicious red flame and was burned completely in a flash.


    "Argh! Help!" An ear-breaking cry was heard from the man as he was rolling around on the ground. Soon, after being cooked alive, his voice was no longer heard. Making the surroundings eerily silent.


    The other men felt intimidated but they soon all recovered. Who they''re fighting with is still just a kid. So they braved themselves and launched attacks simultaneously. One kicked, while the other punched.


    Amias could not fight back properly but atleast he managed to incinerate two more, before all his energy was spent out. His inexperience made the guys easily put him down. They tied him up with iron chains.


    "Where''s the girl?" One guy asked.


    "Gone." Amias laughed.


    "Oh? Look." One guy pointed.


    Amias felt shaken. ''She couldn''t be.. couldn''t be..''


    Right, Luciana turned back for him.

 Chapter 4 Farewell, my friend

    Whipping sounds could be heard as well as the sobbing of a boy. His blood dyed his tattered clothing with red.


    Every visible part of the his body is covered in blood. His skin has deep ugly wounds. His flesh was marked with large bruises.


    It was Amias. He was captured by their pursuers. Now, he was being tortured for almost half a day already.


    "Punishing a little boy isn''t fun." The guy commented as he still slashed the whip towards the boy.


    Amias'' weak pained cries again echoed.


    "Just do it or else you''ll be the one punished." The man beside him said.


    Amias felt like his organs are being repeatedly squeezed. It was getting harder and harder to breathe. Every inhale feels as if his innards are exploding in his body.


    ~~


    "Eh little girl. You actually had the guts to try escaping." An old man said menacingly as he slapped her.


    Luciana just looked at him with unconcealed hatred.


    "Stupid old man." She said.


    Right, Luciana was also caught by these guys. She may appear cold but she couldn''t bear to leave her first and only friend. In the end, they were both captured back to this place.


    Even if she was good in fighting, she only managed to kill two guys brutally. She barely managed to satiate her bloodlust, before being caught by the others. Of course, that is when she didn''t even use magic.


    "You even killed two of us." The man angrily said. "You both made us lose a lot this time!"


    He took a piece of thick wood then smashed it towards the girl''s face.


    Her face immediately became swollen, with blood already flowing from her mouth.


    The man took her chains and dragged her into the tub filled with dirty water and pushed her head.


    Burble. Burble.


    The bubbles started forming.


    "Haah" The girl breathed loudly after. Her white hair that was totally soaked, covered her injured face.


    "Good? Ha ha!" The man asked her.


    Luciana just gritted her teeth.


    Burble burble.


    Her head was again dipped in the water.


    "Don''t worry. I won''t hurt your body too much. You still have some value alive" He sneered. "Heh but do you think this is only your punishment? Tut-tut. Of course not."


    He lowered his head and neared to her ears.


    "Your friend, what''s his name again? Ah right, Amias.. he''ll join you later in the cage." He said with a teasing voice.


    "Hmm who would come out alive between the two of you? Ha ha ha! There would be a good show tonight!" Then he left the girl''s cell, loudly banging the door.


    Luciana couldn''t stop her body from shaking. She knew that Amias is being tortured even harshly than her, but they would still bring him up the cage. They wanted her to kill him with her own hands.


    This tale has been unlawfully lifted from Royal Road; report any instances of this story if found elsewhere."AHHHHH!!!" she shouted madly. She cried so loud. "I. WILL. KILL. YOU. ALL!!!" she declared with red eyes as tears started falling from them.


    Suddenly,


    BOOM! BOOM! BOOM!


    Explosions could be heard everywhere. The place instantly looked like hell. The people''s screams where drowned in the sound of continuous explosion.


    Blood is everywhere. Pieces of human body were scattered. Most of the people died instantly, some had decapitated limbs, some managed to survive.. but not for too long, since countless unknown people suddenly appeared, surrounding them.


    "Kill everyone who tried to escape. Capture those who don''t." A man on the center ordered. If Amias and Luciana could see him, they''d realize that it was the man who was pushing a cart when they were escaping.


    He looked carefully around, then sat on a still usable piece of chair and just watched as everyone were killed and capsized in a cold gaze. He didn''t feel any mercy towards everyone here. And for those who were innocent, if it means that they could obliterate all the disgusting people here, he didn''t mind having collateral damage.


    "Those damn nobles treating normal people''s lives as playthings. If it wasn''t for them, this place should not have to stand in here today." He grinded his teeth in anger.


    His name was Theon Ruggiero. He is a nineteen year old guy. He has a slightly tanned complexion, deep brown hair, black eyes, pointed nose, and a thin pursed lips. He is wearing a clean white robe that heightened his inborn elegance, with a sword attached to his side.


    Theon came from a noble family, but he left them. He couldn''t stand the way nobles behave themselves as if they are all gods in this world.


    He joined a rebellious group whose aim was to remove the social classes in this kingdom. Today, he was tasked to remove this vile place in the map. It is one small step towards all their big plans.


    A subordinate came near him.


    "Sire, there are only eight living innocent survivors including a child about nine years old. He looks as if he was tortured even before we arrive. It is unknown if he could still make it" He reported.


    Theon frowned in hearing the number of survivors. Then said, "Take me to them."


    ~~


    Luciana, inside the cell, was also hurt by the blast. The old wooden ceiling fell on her. She grimaced in pain, then spurted out too much blood, making her lose consciousness.


    It was already morning when she woke up.


    "Cough cough" she winced, feeling her entire body hurt. Her face was awfully pale, her arms were numb, and one of her legs was broken.


    She looked around and noticed that everything was in a mess. The wall was now completely broken, as the light was peaking from the delapidated roof, that no longer has a ceiling.


    She was not found by the people who came here yesterday to destroy the place, because she was completely burried behind by broken pieces of woods.


    She knitted her brows and pushed the debris that fell on her body to the side. The chains on her feet were now broken. She was already free.


    She walked slowly while limping, gritting her teeth because of the pain. She persevered until she managed to get out of the now destroyed cell.


    Luciana gazed at her surroundings. The strong stench of blood was apparent, as if the killings were just done a moment ago. The aura of death could be completely felt, making one shiver uncontrollably. Bodies of dead people were on the ground. The sight was too gore to look at.


    She searched everywhere, feeling a huge sense of dread. She didn''t even rest for hours, yet she could not find a single soul alive.


    "Amias" she whispered with trembling lips.


    ''Are you gone?'' she asked inside.


    Luciana felt herself weaken. The eight year old child, was physically and emotionally tired.


    She sniffed, and brushed off the tears that wouldn''t stop falling.


    She fell down on the ground, crying and trembling. The hell she used to live in, was now finally gone, but she couldn''t bring herself to be happy.


    She couldn''t find her friend. Though she didn''t want to believe that he died, but deep inside she knew that there was only a small chance for him to be alive.


    She stayed like that for a whole day. Not minding anything, not even her rumbling stomach. When there were no longer tears that could come out from her eyes, she slowly stood up.


    "I could not pay off my debt, for that I apologize." She spoke to the wind. Her white hair swaying, looking like a goddess who just came from a bloody battlefield.


    "It is also my, Luciana''s honor to meet you, Amias Devin." She put her right hand on her chest.


    "Farewell Amias." Then bowed deeply for a while.


    She took one last glance to the place where she grew up, as her deep black eyes flashed with a white light. Her emotions were still in turmoil but her appearance was calm and cold. With a final sigh, she started walking with complete determination. She can now leave hell.


    She wasn''t able to kill those bastards with her own hands. But she promised inwardly to herself, and to her fallen friend that she''ll pull out the very root where this evil started.


    The child was finally out from her cage.

 Chapter 5 Hadas Forest

    A little girl''s figure could be seen inside a forest, as she walks slowly while holding a cane stick to support her self.


    It was called Hada''s Forest. It was large, misty, and thriving. The canopies were formed majorly by red wood and elm. The light peaking through the spaces of the lush leaves and branches, created a mystical atmosphere.


    Variety of sounds could be heard around. The chirping of birds and the buzzing of insects echoed in the air, accompanied by the gentle caress of the river nearby.


    There was a myth, that the forest before was ruled by mythical beings, though there''s no person who has ever seen one.


    Luciana stopped near the river to drink water. It has been a day since she left the fighting house. Her face was deathly pale. The injuries she had, were still lingering on her body and untreated. She can barely move because of extreme fatigue.


    The place where the fighting house was located is remote, and only a few village surrounds it. It was made so that the rotten aristocrats who goes there to have fun, will not be seen by other nobles. They do not want them to know that they go to such a dirty and gory place.


    The reason why Luciana has to pass through this forest is because it is the shortest path towards the town. If she chose to detour instead, it might take her weeks by foot and that is, if she isn''t injured like now. Taking this way, she might be able to reach there in three days in her fastest speed, if there''s no danger encountered.


    Just when she was about to close her eyes to rest, rustling sounds could be heard from the surrounding plants.


    She instantly became alert. She took the cane stick on the ground and placed it in her right hand in a defensive position, as she slowly stood up.


    Two bloody red eyes were straighly looking at her. Anticipation could be seen on its menacing face.


    It was a ferocious young juvenile wolf, around half a meter tall, with dark grey fur and yellowish fangs. Grey-furred wolves love to form packs but this young wolf, luckily is alone and was probably separated from the others.


    It glared at the little girl, it''s saliva was flowing through the gaps of its teeth. It carefully sizes up the prey in front as it slowly advance on its way towards her from the bush he was in.


    "Grrrr." The wolf growled at her.


    Luciana prepared herself. She is not in the condition to fight properly. It seems like she''s really in, with a very bad luck. She can only hope that she could end this as soon as possible.


    Luciana decided to take the initiative to attack. She tightened her grasp on the stick. Advancing forward with fast strides, she forcibly hit the wolf on its head.


    The wolf was hit, making it take a few steps back. It growled louder then pounced towards her angrily, aiming to take the stick from her hands.


    Luciana has anticipated it''s move, already prepared for this attack. She flipped the stick forcibly passing it from the back on to her other hand. She took one step forward and kicked the wolf, almost getting herself out balanced while doing that. She just hissed then violently attacked again with the stick towards its stomach.


    The wolf shrieked out in pain, rolling on the ground. When it was about to stand back again, Luciana hurriedly landed another kick on its bloody wound. Continuing her momentum, she made a final stab towards its heart. Stains of blood was added onto Luciana''s already bloody clothes.


    It howled weakly, and cried for a while before its body finally turned stiff, it was dead.Reading on Amazon or a pirate site? This novel is from Royal Road. Support the author by reading it there.


    Luciana felt her sight blur. She knew she was about to become unconscious, but if she fall here now, other beasts might get attracted from the smell of blood. She couldn''t risk to stay here.


    She strenuously walked away from the dead wolf. Her face pale, her clothes drenched in cold sweat, but she continued, almost crawling just to leave the place.


    When she was aware that it is already a safe distance away, she passed out immediately.


    ~~


    [Requiem Sanctum, Revolutionary''s eastern hideout.]


    "Theon, have you seen anyone with white hair when you went to the fight house?" A middle aged man spoke. He has a brown complexion, golden hair, his eyes were deep blue, his nose is finely sculpted, and his lips were thin and a bit dark. He exudes an aura of a veteran warrior, and his gaze is strict and pointed.


    "I do not, General Torryn." Theon Ruggiero answered calmly, but inside he was confused about the general''s question but he kept it to himself.


    The general sighed then said, "Okay. leave now."


    When Theon was no longer there, he stared at the corner of his tent. He whispered, "I hope you can find who you''re seeking."


    The silhouette of a man appeared. He looked at the man who spoke. His eyes flashed with white light, soon he left and vanished into the night.


    ~~


    Luciana felt something tickling her face. Her eyes trembled, as it slowly adjust to the morning light. It seems like she passed out for an entire night.


    "Mmmm" she groaned. A wet sandpaper like texture keeps on tickling her.


    A two meter tall- white deer was licking her face. It''s long white horns protrudes from its head. It looked majestic and lovely.


    The deer''s eyes were looking kindly at Luciana, as if the one infront is her own child. It sticks out its tongue to lick her again, wanting to make the girl wake up.


    When Luciana finally woke up completely, she was instantly shocked dumbly by the sight. She tried to move backwards but the deer followed her too.


    "What do you want?" She asked with a raspy voice.


    The white deer answered her by just licking her face again.


    Luciana was amazed by the deers action. She stretched her hand, intending to touch its head. When the deer saw her doing that, it lowered it''s head for her.


    She tried standing up, and the deer also helped her by offering it''s antlers. She glanced around at her surroundings, when she realized she''s still on the right track she sighed in relief.


    She looked at the deer again and asked, "can you help me out of the forest?"


    The white deer nodded, having understood her words.


    Luciana finally smiled and brushed her hands to the deer''s soft coat, in exchange, it licked her little jade-like hand.


    They walked together slowly. Sometimes they stopped to let Luciana pick out edible mushrooms and herbs for her to eat. The deer also brought her some wild berries, making Luciana smile like the child she is.


    When the sky darkened again, the deer led her safely to a small cave. Luciana lay beside the white deer, she felt warm and comfortable.


    That night, was the first night after years, when she was able to dream again. She dreamt about little animals surrounding her happily. Little rabbits hopping around her cutely, birds where singing her a lovely song, and the white deer is watching on the side looking at her with a gentle gaze. On that dream, she felt really happy, she was able to forget her dark past for a moment. She slept peacefully and soundly that night.


    When they woke up, they continued their travel out of the forest. They didn''t encounter anymore danger during the rest of their journey.


    The sun is almost set when the trees on the distance already seemed to lessen and disappear. she looked at the deer beside her.


    "I''m leaving." She said briefly.


    The deer looked at her with a sad gaze, reluctant to leave the little girl''s side. It licked her hands once again.


    "Thank you." Luciana said with a smile. She felt gratitude towards it.


    The deer stepped backward and suddenly lowered it''s body and bowed it''s head.


    Luciana was shocked by the deer''s gesture. She was already confused why a majestic deer like that would follow her, and now it even bowed towards her.


    Since she couldn''t understand why such things happened, she just thrown everything to the back of her mind. She glanced softly at the deer again before leaving the Hada''s forest.


    She is already just a few distance away from town.

 Chapter 6 Kuehns Town

    Theamar is an enormous kingdom that has stood for more than five hundred years, and was being ruled by a king.


    King Jehen Reinaldus is the present ruler of this era. King Reinaldus and his family reigns among every people, including the noble aristocrats.


    Theamar kingdom has strict laws. Laws that are more beneficial for the higher class, making ordinary civilians and slaves unable to raise their head when being compared to them.


    Although Theamar has enjoyed long-term peace from other kingdom''s tyranny, they suffer from extreme internal conflicts.


    A lot of nobles love to dominate among common people. They enjoy using their social class to suppress ordinary civilians, and the Royal family turns a blind eye towards their actions.


    Magic is the basis of respect everywhere, and where does the majority of magic users come from? The aristocratic families.


    Actually, the Royal family doesn''t really have much choice. They have always wanted to increase the number of magic users, and the most effective way for that is to cultivate bloodlines. As long as they do not try to seize the kingdom for themselves, then they are happy to keep one eye closed for their ugly actions.


    This is also the reason why revolutionary groups started appearing in the kingdom. A lot of civilians couldn''t stand the Noble''s oppression. Since they also have magic users, why should they be treated too poorly?


    Of course, not all aristocrats are rotten. There are also some, who hates those actions. They also started joining revolutionary groups secretly, to fight for change in the kingdom and sever the current social structure.


    In the eastern part of Theamar kingdom, a small town named after the noble family ruling it, stands.


    Kuehn Town with a population of around four to five thousand, primarily lives off from selling medicinal herbs to other nearby towns. The surrounding forest allow its people to look for rare herbs, while they can plant the more common ones in their own backyards, as Kuehn town is blessed with a good soil for tending them.


    Luciana brushed off the hair that fell into her face, as she looks around the unfamiliar sight infront.


    The town looks beautiful, plenty of plants could be seen everywhere. The air also contains pleasant aroma that makes everyone feel refreshed when smelling them. It''s beauty hides the poor condition of the slums in the most secluded area in the town.


    People were walking around busily everywhere. Street peddlers were shouting around, promoting what they''re selling. There are also aristocrats that are sightseeing.


    As she walks around while absorbing everything into her eyes, she saw a man taking the wallet of a young lady, who has no idea that her money was already taken away by someone. Then the man walked as if nothing happened, going to the direction of the slums.


    Luciana didn''t plan to help at all. She actually find the scene rather interesting, that there would be stupid people flaunting their money in a crowded place. She just glanced at the young girl coldly then she decided to walk towards the slums and follow the man.Stolen novel; please report.


    A not so good smell entered Luciana''s little nose, but her stoic face remained unchanged. She finally saw the man walking to an alleyway, and so she entered it too, but just when she was about to get near, the man suddenly turned around and faced her.


    He looked at her with a scrunched up face. "Why are you following me?" He said in a deep voice.


    Luciana looked at the man infront of her. He''s wearing a tattered shirt covered with a worn out coat. His pants aren''t in good condition too. Then she looked at his face. He has clear dark green moss-like eyes, his straight nose has a horizontal scar on it, his dark lips are forming a thin line, and his long black hair is tied on a ponytail. Overall the man looks good even if he''s already in his middle age, and also regardless of his messy outfit.


    "Are you here to talk about justice with me?" The man smirked at her.


    ''so he knew I was watching him'' Luciana thought. Then she answered, "No."


    The man raised his eyebrows as he again examined the little girl.


    Luciana''s white hair is noteworthy. She has a dirty but beautiful face. She is wearing a filthy dress and an oversized red cloak she picked out from who knows where.


    "Then what do you need?" He asked her.


    "Teach me." She said, looking straight to the man''s eyes. She didn''t know why, but she feels as if this man is not just a simple thief.


    "To rob people? No." Then he turned around and walked once again.


    Luciana didn''t care about his answer, or about his misunderstanding and just followed him to where he intends to go. Deciding to follow her instincts.


    Soon, they reached a shabby house. It''s roof sagged badly, as if it would fly with just a blow of the wind. The windows are plastered with woods to hide it''s holes. The door even looked as if it would fall down with a simple push.


    The man looked once again at her.


    "I don''t want to teach children how to steal! Go leave now." He said with obvious irritation.


    "No. Teach me how to fight." Luciana said with a childish but determined voice.


    The man was shocked. He turned serious and asked, "What do you know about me?"


    Luciana just lifted both her hands as if saying ''i don''t know anything''


    He then looked at the girl and felt like she really don''t know anything.


    "Then why are you asking me to teach you how to fight?" He again, skeptically asked.


    "You look strong." She replied.


    The man almost choked up with her reply. Who the hell would approach someone just because he looks strong and then ask him to teach her how to fight? Well, this is his first time encountering someone who does.


    He wanted to refuse the silly girl, but when he looked at her, he remembered something and changed his mind. He sighed and said, "You are aware that I''m a thief. I am definitely not a good person, additionally, I may not be good in teaching. Are you sure about this?"


    Luciana answered with a simple nod.


    "Okay, go inside first. I''ll be going out for a while."


    She nodded once again, feeling quite happy inside. She readily went inside his house, describing it as shabby is a complete understatement.


    The man looked at her complicatedly. "That girl, isn''t she afraid I''ll do something bad to her?" He whispered and then just shrugged his shoulders and left.


    Luciana looked around the small, shabby house with a curious expression on her little face. The house only have a single room with a simple bed and a cabinet. The outside has a plain dining table with two chairs beside it, and a small bathroom on the western side. There''s also a long chair near the entrance. There is nothing to be praised about the house, except that it is clean.


    When she couldn''t find anything interesting, she just walked towards the long chair and slumped lazily.

 Chapter 7 News

    After nightfall, In the Kuehn''s town slum area, a good-looking but dressed in scruffy way middle aged man entered his shabby house.


    When he entered inside, the first thing he saw was a little girl with white hair slumped lazily into his long chair.


    "Hey. Sit properly." He said grumpily.


    When he saw that she indeed did as he said, he took out the things he just bought from the sack he''s holding.


    He placed several bottles of medicine on the ground and lifted the little girl''s feet. He knitted his brows when he saw the condition of her legs. He had seen that although she walks quite normally, it was still a little awkward. He thought that it was a very minor injury, but didn''t think that her legs are all swelled up, and the broken bones were seemingly attached back casually.


    Although he is curious about what happened to the girl, he didn''t ask anything. He just wondered how a little girl like her could tolerate such great pain, was she already used to it? Feeling a bit of pity towards her, but also praised how strong the child is.


    He applied medicine into her legs carefully and massaged the bones to fix them properly. After that, he wrapped it with a bandage in a very practiced manner.


    When he finished doing those, he raised his head and saw the curious eyes of the girl.


    "You can call me Torin. How should I address you?" He introduced himself.


    The girl''s eyes showed that she''s hesitant whether to tell him or not, but she still answered, "Luciana"


    "Do you still have a family?" He asked again.


    "No" Was her only reply.


    "Good. Luciana, you can stay here in my house if you could be an obedient child. I want you to dye your hair tomorrow with this." He tossed another bottle to the girl.


    She caught it easily and despite her reluctance, she still nodded her small face.


    "Come here let''s eat." He ordered then sat on one of the chairs.


    "I also have no family, so you can feel at home here." He paused and looked at the girl who''s busy devouring the food he just gave her then added, "You recuperate properly, then I''ll decide whether to teach you after that."


    He sighed at the sight of this unresponsive girl. "I don''t know where you are from or what you''ve been through, but from today onwards, you should call me Uncle Torin. Since I decided to take you in, I''ll treat you like family so I hope you would do the same."


    Luciana stopped eating for a while, then said half-heartedly, "I will"


    Torin nodded in satisfaction after finally receiving an answer. "You''ll sleep on the bed, I''ll sleep there on the long chair. I also bought some clothes for you to change into."


    The girl just looked at him for a while, not used to this kind of generosity. She gave him her thanks inside, then returned to munching the food.The narrative has been illicitly obtained; should you discover it on Amazon, report the violation.


    Torin shaked his head inwardly towards the girl. ''i wonder who could talk to her for so long if she''s that silent? Sigh''


    ~~


    The next morning, a small girl was seen walking out of the bathroom of a small house. She gave a look towards the middle-aged man sitting beside the table. He is wearing a brown shirt and black pants whose colors are a bit faded, he''s also wearing the same coat he used yesterday.


    The man returned the gaze. He looked at the young girl whose hair is now black, the same color as his. She''s wearing the simple white dress he bought yesterday paired with cheap black shoes.


    "It''s beautiful" he commented about her hair, thinking that she wanted to hear a compliment, but her face didn''t even change and it still has the same neutral look.


    Now with their hair colors the same, add it with their pretty faces that both look stoic, they could already pass as a father and daughter pair.


    Torin looked at her visible arms, where bruises could be seen. He frowned slightly. He removed his coat and passed it to her. "Wear this, it''s cold." He said.


    Luciana, the obedient child, took it and worn the coat immediately.


    "Where are we going?" She asked.


    ''A child is still a child, curious about everything.'' Torin smiled inside when he heard the girl talk.


    "Do you think I only live off by robbing purses of young girls? We''re going to get a job." He said, keeping the girl guessing.


    Luciana''s curiosity heightened, but she no longer opened her mouth to ask. She''ll know when they get there, is what she thought.


    After a few minutes of walk, Torin brought her to a secluded tavern. The tavern looks old and a bit gloomy. Although it is supposed to be a lively place, you cannot see people entering. It is made out of wood mainly, the windows are closed and the door looks unwelcoming.


    Torin walked near the door and knocked four times.


    ''one fast and soft, two slow and loud, and the last, slow and soft'' Luciana noted in her mind.


    The door of the tavern opened, and the strong smell of alcohol welcomed them. The man inside looked at the both of them, recognizing Torin. He gestured with his hands hinting them to come in.


    The inside is also gloomy like the outside. There is a counter at the back. There are also five separate round wooden tables, with four small stools surrounding each. If not for the scent of the alcohol, the bartender who opened the door, and the only man drinking on the left table, you''d think it is already abandoned.


    The man drinking a jug of rough alcohol saw Torin. He has large black eyes, with heavy bags under them, a turned up nose, brown lips and a square styled beard. He gulped once again from the jug and said, "come here" then pointed at the chairs near him.


    Torin sat on a stool beside the man and Luciana followed and sat beside Torin.


    "Drinks?" The man who opened the door asked.


    "No. I''ll leave soon" Torin said to him, then looked at the other man. "News?"


    "A few days ago, the fight house on the small village behind Hada''s Forest was destroyed. The rebel group should be the one behind it. Now, they''re asking if someone knew anyone who have seen a survivor. Specifically, a white haired child, gender and age unknown. Reward 50 pieces of silver.(1)" he said fastly on a monotone.


    Luciana got interested on that news. Wondering why someone is looking for her. Her face though, didn''t even show any hint of it.


    Torin didn''t look at her, and just asked again, "What else?"


    "A daughter of a common family was raped and killed by an aristocrat. Her family went here yesterday offering their entire wealth worth around 15 silvers to anyone who can give them justice. Aside from those, there''s nothing else we can offer. Higher paid jobs are becoming more rare these days." The man said.


    Torin sighed then remained silent, thinking.


    "What are the details of the second one?" He said after a while.


    "Jamal Abe. Barely qualifying as a noble. 37 years old. Has not awakened any magic. Over all, a good for nothing man carrying a surname and loves to flaunt his status to those lower than him." He answered with a mocking tone.


    "Good. I''ll take that." Then Torin stood up and Luciana followed suit.


    "Same terms, 10 percent commission for us." The man reminded as the pair left the tavern.


    ~~~~


    (1) 1 gold=100 silver= 1000 copper

 Chapter 8 What did you just say?

    On the way back to their house, while walking in a narrow and rough pathway, Torin looked at the girl beside him and asked, "Are you not afraid that I''d sell you out?"


    "Nope." Luciana answered swiftly. Her appearance clearly shows that she didn''t really care, not even for a bit.


    Torin was made dumbstruck. "You! do you really trust other people that easily? Heck! Do you know that those fifty silvers is already a hefty amount?" He suddenly became worried that the poor little girl might be fooled someday.


    Luciana looked at the man weirdly and said, "No."


    The man was again speechless by her reply. "Cough cough. Anyway, Remember not to trust anyone easily, always be wary about strangers!" Then he hurriedly changed the subject.


    "Don''t you have any questions about what you heard in the tavern? Are you not curious about what I do?" He asked as he watch the girl walk beside him, looking as if she''s out sightseeing on a trip.


    "You kill people." Luciana straightforwardly and without any emotion said.


    Torin choked up with the girl''s answer. ''Talking with this girl will surely make me live shorter!''


    "Ehem. Do not talk as if killing people is a normal thing!"


    The girl looked at him curiously, with a face written with, ''How is it not normal?''


    Feeling exasperated, Torin repeatedly sighed. Then he suddenly remembered where the girl just came from and felt bad inside. ''Does she really think that it was normal?''


    "It is not!" He flicked the girl''s forehead. He feels that there''s a need to educate the girl properly about her views in life.


    "Then why do you kill?" She said while rubbing her reddish temple.


    "I kill because I have no choice! I kill so that I can live!" He answered. "Remember, you should only kill if you don''t have any other option! But keep in mind as well, that if someone intends to harm you.. Kill them! Kill them without mercy!" Torin fiercely added.


    Luciana blinked her cute eyes, then bobbed her head. Inside, she repeated what he said in her mind. What he is saying now is definitely new to her. Killing was normal like drinking water for her before.


    ''Is the outside different from that place?'' she asked herself.


    When Torin noticed that she listened to him carefully, he nodded. "I will teach you everything I know. In return you have to keep my lessons well in your heart."


    "Okay" She said and nodded briefly.


    Shaking his head, feeling mad about her short answers to his long speech, he grumpily lectured "You should use that tongue more! And didn''t I tell you to call me uncle?!"If you stumble upon this tale on Amazon, it''s taken without the author''s consent. Report it.


    Luciana just looked at him again with a weird gaze thinking, ''What is his problem?''


    ~~~


    Three days ago in the Requiem Sanctum, Eastern Hideout of the Revolution group.


    "Kid, I''m surprised you are awake. We honestly didn''t believe you''d make it. You waking up now could be counted as a miracle. Additionally, what''s more unbelievable is that the doctor said that after just taking a few months of rest, you''d eventually recover back to normal." Theon Ruggiero said to the boy lying on the bed as he sat casually on the nearest chair.


    The boy on the bed was covered with bandages all over his body. He has been in coma for days and he can still feel the pain from his injuries, but he ignored it for now.


    He carefully looked around him. He is in a small room. There''s only a single bed, a wooden table with a lamp on top, and two chairs inside the room. The window curtains are slightly moving because of the gentle air coming from outside while the natural light of the sun brightens up the room. After observing his surroundings, he stared at the man on the chair vigilantly. His purple eyes are filled with confusion. He has a lot of question in his nine-year old mind.


    "Wh-who are you?" The young boy asked, feeling wary about the presence of a stranger in the room accompanying him.


    "Do not be nervous kid. We and my group saved you. I am Theon Ruggiero, the second in command here in this revolutionary camp. The place you came from is now gone, so you are safe from now on." He said in a very calm manner as he observe the boy who currently looks at him nervously.


    "Tell me your name and how did you get on that place." Theon added while crossing his arms.


    The boy still look guarded but still answered with a croaky but childish voice, "I am Amias. I work as a servant there."


    Theon kept silent for a while. He raised his right hand, placing it in his chin and eyed the boy. "You should not keep things from me." He warned with a chilly voice.


    Cold sweat ran down from Amias'' nape. "What.. what do you mean?" He asked. He had a feeling that the man is talking about his identity. His father had repeatedly warned him before dying not to tell anyone his surname unless he have no choice. Of course Luciana was an exception, because at that time, he was sure that she won''t tell anyone. He already trusted her that much from the moment she gave him half of that bread, what more after experiencing danger with her side by side?


    "I know that you''re not just a servant. Perhaps you could fool anyone else, but you can''t fool me."


    "I''ll answer you. But.. I.. I have a question." Amias'' downcastedly said, but he still decided to tell him about himself, and thrown all the caution away in the air. If it means he''ll answer his questions, then he''ll tell everything he wants to know.


    "Pray tell." Theon said to him with a cold face.


    "I have a friend.. She''s a girl with white hair. Around eight years old. Did..did you find her too?" He asked while stuttering, feeling a bit afraid of hearing the answer.


    "We didn''t" The man coolly said, but he noted that there is indeed a white haired kid at that place before. He''ll report it immediately after talking with the little guy. "But we also do not know if she''s still alive."


    Amias'' face immediately lost all color. "Can you look for her?" He hurriedly said, feeling deeply worried about his friend.


    "We can" Theon answered, but inside he said to himself ''We can, but I''m not sure if we can find her.''


    The face of Amias'' visibly relaxed. "I believe that she did not die." He trust his feelings.


    "Now, can you tell me everything?" Theon asked him once again. Actually, he really isn''t interested in what he''s going to say. He was just a bit curious why the boy would hide something. "Do not worry, I keep my mouth shut most of the time."


    Amias'' released a long sigh before saying, "My name is Amias Devin. My real father died a year ago. I had no where to go. I was adopted by a kind villager and he helped me to become a servant in that place. I am a noble, that I''m sure.. but I don''t know anything about my family''s history."


    Then Theon blanked out for a bit. After a while, having digested everything the boy just said, he immediately stood up and shouted, losing his composure.


    "Did you just say that you are a Devin??!"

 Chapter 9 Late night trip

    The full moon appeared in the sky, as it illuminates the night. Torin looked at the girl beside him as she gazed at the stars. He couldn''t help but think that the girl should belong there. She should shine brightly, and give light to this dark place.


    "Come with me, I''ll introduce you to someone." He said.


    Luciana shifted her gaze to him, then nodded and followed behind the man.


    They walked along a less crowded road, which Luciana recognized as the path towards the forest. She wondered who they''re going to meet there, but didn''t open her mouth to ask.


    About an hour after, they reached the outskirts of the Hada''s Forest. Even from where they are, the could still feel the mysterious vibes it emits. The surrounding is silent, and only the few croaking of frogs and crickets could be heard.


    "I''m here." Torin said loudly towards the direction of a fir tree. A young man appeared from its back and rushed to them.


    "Uncle!" He shouted excitedly. Then he noticed that he''s being accompanied by a little girl. "Who is she?" He asked Torin.


    "Luciana, this is Oleander." Torin said to her then gazed at the boy, "Oleander, Luciana."


    "Nice to meet ya!" Oleander smiled at her. But Luciana didn''t return his greetings, making him frown a bit.


    She just observed the boy in silence. Oleander looks as if he''s around thirteen. He is one foot taller than her. His complexion is dark and his hair is brown with a bit of orange. His eyes are brown as well, his nose is slightly bent, and his lips are pale red.


    "Now, now. Enough of that. Luciana, Olly is a child from the slums. He still has family, so i didn''t allow him to live with me. He is my student, just like you. I''m teaching him so that he would not be bullied by the other kids in the slums anymore." Torin unhurriedly explained.


    Luciana nodded her head but is not a bit concerned.


    "Olly boy, I won''t teach you today. I have some business to do. Just come here again after three days." He instructed Oleander.


    Oleander felt disappointed but he still agreed with Torin. "Kay." He said in a sulky manner.


    Torin knitted his brows a bit. He glanced at Oleander, then to Luciana, and said his plans. "After Luciana fully recovered from her injuries, she''ll join you in training. You can also spar together that way."


    "Girl, come. Let''s go do some business." He said to Luciana.


    ~~


    Koehn''s town most popular brothel, the Maiden Head.


    Different kinds of beauties could be seen outside, waving their hands to potential customers. They''re wearing thin sets of clothings that exposes their skin, while their heavy perfumes and thick scent of makeup are scattered in the air. The brothel was boisterous as a lot of men come and go.


    Torin and Luciana sat atop a branch of a tree. Torin looks straight to the brothel, as Luciana just sweeps her eyes around curiously.


    "I''ve heard about that Jamal Abe before. If he''s not out drinking in a pub, he''s here spending all his time with the girls inside." Torin said in a hushed voice.Did you know this text is from a different site? Read the official version to support the creator.


    They''ve been observing the brothel for over three hours now, waiting for that Jamal Abe to show his self.


    "He should be coming out by now." He added. He is explaining everything about this kind of business to Luciana. It is not that she wants the girl to walk the same path as him, he just want her to have certain knowledge about these kinds of thing.


    After a few more minutes of waiting, their target finally walked out from the brothel. He is still holding two girls on each side, caressing their bodies pervertedly. After kissing both of the girls who wear thick makeups, and handling them extra money, he laughed maniacally and left the Maiden Head satisfied.


    Once he was completely out from the brothel, they could already see his face more clearly. Jamal has slanted eyes, pointed nose, and thin lips. He has long black hair tied into a half-bun. Jamal also has thick beard that covers half of his face. When the two confirmed that it is indeed who they''re looking for, they started to prepare.


    "Follow me and keep silent." Torin whispered to Luciana. They hurriedly jumped off the tree without making any sound.


    Jamal Abe, unhurriedly entered his carriage. The horses neighed and started moving slowly after Jamal was safe inside.


    Torin and Luciana followed the carriage from behind, making sure they stay inconspicuous and undetectable as possible.


    "Once I started, just hide somewhere and watch from there." Torin instructed softly to Luciana.


    "Mm." Was her reply.


    When the carriage finally turned into an unfrequented alley, Torin decided to finally make a move, while Luciana went into a near bush to hide.


    Torin fastly approached the carriage. He gripped a double edged blade in his hands then slipped inside quietly.


    Luciana was observing everything with her eyes. Everything was silent and no one could detect any signs of disturbance.


    Not even a minute has passed when she already saw Torin running away swiftly, carrying a sack on his right hand, and the blade on the other.


    She looked at the carriage that didn''t even pause for a bit and is still being driven away by the chauffeur. She was amazed that the person driving didn''t even notice anything abnormal, as it continued on its way. Luciana also couldn''t help but imagine the sight of his face upon seeing that the person he is supposed to carry home, is now lying inside, lifeless.


    Torin went near her, and said in a cold voice, "Let''s go. We''re done here."


    Luciana looked carefully at the sack he was holding. Her eyes narrowed a bit upon realizing it was the head of Jamal. She also observed how he carefully wipes away his blade with some leaves, to remove the blood that has covered it.


    Torin''s demeanor seemed to change instantly upon doing the assassination. The girl noticed the he seemed colder than before, but didn''t give it much thought.


    They travelled for quite some time. The sun is already peeking in the sky, when they arrived at the same tavern they visited before.


    Torin knocked in the same pattern, and the door opened up for him.


    "Do not enter." Torin ordered Luciana. He then proceeded, inside, and met with the same drunkard man.


    "Here''s the head." He removed Jamal''s head from the sack and thrown it on the ground carelessly. The head dropped into the ground with a slight thump making the blood scatter on the floor.


    "Friend, watch it." The drunk man said as he repeatedly tutted.


    "I''m not your friend. Where''s the money?" Torin asked impatiently.


    The man glanced at the bartender, and signaled him to bring out the reward. He reached out for the pouch, then tossed it to Torin.


    Torin counted it properly. "thirteen pieces of silver and 500 pieces of copper" He nodded his head, then went towards the door.


    "Till next time." The voice of the man was heard before Torin completely left the tavern.


    Luciana and Torin went home, without anyone talking.


    When they arrived, Torin just said to her, "Sleep now."


    He changed his clothes before walking towards the long chair. He then lied down, facing the ceiling.


    Luciana casted a curious glance at him before entering the room. He was acting weirdly after killing Jamal.


    Before she closed the door, she heard him whisper to himself.


    "Even I, am scared of myself. I already feel numb in killing." He laughed in a mocking tone.


    Luciana paused for a while, and glanced once more at Torin. After a few seconds, a click sound was heard as she shut the door closed.

 Chapter 10 A Delicious Meal

    Standing inside a shabby house, with his arms crossed in his chest, Torin stared at the eight year old girl who''s currently slumping on a wooden chair.


    "So you''re telling me, that you don''t know how to read and write?" He said with an awkward expression.


    Luciana looked at this middle aged man with a stoic face. Torin is still dressed in his old faded clothes. His twitching lips destroyed the usual cold look on his face.


    "Mm." She said while nodding.


    It has been two days since they finished their assassination mission. Torin wanted her to learn about some of the country''s history and geography, so he bought books for her. It costed him quite some money, but he forgot to consider if the person who''s going to use it can actually read.


    ''Why did I not think about this possibility? How could a former slave learn how to read? I''m so stupid. Damn it!'' he cursed himself inwardly.


    Luciana vaguely remembered someone teaching her years before, but when they were out strolling in the town, the words written on signages were already like alien language to her. The same happened with the books Torin gave her. She can interpret the pictures, but she can''t understand anything other than that.


    The two exchanged looks for a while, before Torin finally sighed, and resigned to his fate.


    "I never thought I''d actually teach a kid how to read. You little brat! You only asked me to teach you how to fight!" Torin grumbled.


    He walked out and left for some time. When he finally arrived, he already have some paper, ink, and a brush on his hands. He arranged them on the table, and sat beside Luciana.


    "Look first at how I write." He folded his sleeves then lifted his right hand gracefully. He dipped the brush on the ink and started to write something on the paper. The letters that he wrote were slanted upwards and were written with obvious boldness.


    "Look at this carefully, this is my name- Torin." He said while pointing at the paper. Then he dipped the brush once again and wrote. "This is your name-Luciana."


    The girl looked at the paper expectantly. That is her name. The name that Amias gave her.


    Remembering her friend, she felt a pang of pain in her heart, but she didn''t show any of it on her face. Instead, she just continued to concentrate on what Torin is teaching.


    He explained how all the letters are written and how they are pronounced. Torin is really bad in teaching this, but Luciana still listened properly and tried to remember everything.


    "Copy all this. Practice until you already feel it''s natural." Torin instructed her, still feeling grumpy.


    Luciana nodded earnestly and took the brush from him. Torin adjusted her posture and her arm position before allowing her to start.


    He nodded upon seeing her focus on what she''s doing. He observed her for a while before saying, "I''ll go out for a bit. Just stay here and continue practicing."


    Luciana didn''t even lifted her head nor spoken a single word. So Torin just left like that, feeling aggrieved about the girl''s inattention to him. ''I spent hours to teach this brat, and I couldn''t even get a simple thank you.'' He said grumpily like a child.This content has been misappropriated from Royal Road; report any instances of this story if found elsewhere.


    ~~


    Inside a nameless pub, near the central part of Kuehn''s town.


    "The money you''re giving is just making him grow more irresponsible." A man wearing a knight''s armor is lecturing Torin.


    The two sat on a wooden table, drinking liquor together.


    "Sigh. This is the only way I know, that could somehow make me pay for the mistake I''ve made in the past." Torin said, then gulped another mouthful of beer.


    "You''ve given that boy quite a lot already. I really think it is pointless now." The man replied as he brushes his beard.


    "No matter how much I give him, it can never wash my hands clean from what I''ve done."


    "But.."


    Torin then cut what he''s going to say, throwing a pouch towards him. "Enough Marcus, just give him this money, and don''t tell him it''s from me."


    "You''re still too stubborn." Marcus shook his head. He knew that he couldn''t change Torin''s mind, so he decided to just change the topic. "I''ve heard from Oleander that you''ve taken a new student. Is that true?" His friend doesn''t want to stay with kids, because they make him remember painful memories. There''s already Oleander by his side, and yet he still took another one. It made him a bit interested about the reason.


    "Yes. She is only eight years old. Too young, yet have already experienced the ugly side of this world." Torin sighed as he told his friend about Luciana.


    "You mean to say, you''ve taken an eight year old girl as a student? Torin, don''t tell me you see that kid as her?" Marcus immediately sat straight upon realizing Torin''s reason.


    "No. I.. I know they''re different. She''s already dead." He replied, mocking his self.


    Marcus relaxed, and said, "Then it''s good that you know. Torin I know you''re having a hard time moving on, but it is still wrong to take another person as a replacement to remove your grief."


    When the sun was about to set, Torin stood up and said to Marcus, "Thank you, and I''m sorry for the trouble."


    Marcus also stood up, and patted Torin''s shoulder.


    "It is no big deal, you can tell me everytime you need help." He said, and watched while Torin leaves the pub.


    ~~


    A creaking sound was heard as Torin opened the door to his house. When he entered inside, he instantly saw the girl who is still seriously practicing how to write.


    "Pfft." Torin stiffled a laughter.


    Luciana then removed her attention from writing, then looked at Torin wondering why he is laughing.


    "You brat, wipe your nose." He said while still laughing.


    She felt confused but still nodded, and did as he said. But after wiping her nose, Torin instead laughed more loudly.


    "Ha-ha! There''s an ink on your nose. It has spread now." Torin took a piece of crumpled cloth, that is supposed to be a handkerchief, then wiped Luciana''s nose properly.


    "There, it''s gone." Torin said gently and tapped her head. Then he looked at the papers scattered on the table. The letters there were still messy, but it''s obvious that she will need only a few more time before she master them.


    "Good. You are a fast learner." He added as he repeatedly nodded.


    "Un. Stop that for now, I was able to hunt some wild hare. Let''s go out to make some barbecue."


    Luciana dropped her brush, then followed him outside.


    Torin produced a small flame in a short time, then added a few dried branches in it to make it bigger.


    "I am good at cooking this. Just wait there and see." Torin bragged at her.


    She nodded and just watched him as he repeatedly turned the barbecue over the fire. The smell wafted to her nose, and she anticipated a delicious meal.


    After a while, Torin finally gave her a piece. She stared at it for a while. The delicious aroma was no longer around, instead, a burnt smell replaced it.


    ''I thought he''s good at this?'' she complained inwardly, but still took a bite on the blackened meat.


    "What do you think? Good, right?" Torin laughed loudly.


    "No." Luciana frankly said. But even though the taste isn''t good, it still gives a warm feeling.


    ''I should learn how to cook from now on.'' she decided, and continued to eat.

 Chapter 11 Choosing a Weapon

    The moon is out, shining warmly as small little diamonds freckled the night sky along with it. The wind is blowing softly making the leaves create a crackling sound. The foliage is rustling, and nocturnal birds make screeching noises. The song of the forest echoed around the place.


    Breathing heavily, two kids, a boy and a girl, are facing each other while dust particles in the air surrounded them.


    Suddenly, the boy balled up his fists as he aimed at the other kid''s face with a lurching step.


    The girl flexibly moved to the side, evading the boy''s attack. Her knuckles found its way towards the boy''s stomach, twice.


    The boy coughed up a bit, then he tried to punch her again.


    Alas, his attack only met with air once again. The girl ran to his back, and he was immediately chopped down to the ground. He curled his body, then the blood on his mouth splattered on the earth, as he continued coughing.


    The girl''s fingers crawled into his chin, lifting his head a bit. Her hands got stained with his dripping blood.


    "Admit defeat." She said, staring at him with a scary deep black eyes.


    The boy gritted his teeth, feeling adamant of losing, again. His eyes are bulging red with anger. He is ashamed to be repeatedly pummeled by someone younger than him.


    *Clap* *Clap*


    A man sitting on a nearby rock suddenly clapped his hands.


    "That''s enough. You both did good. Olly boy, you still have to get used in fighting so it''s okay to lose now against Luci." Torin encouraged him.


    "Yes uncle." He said dejectedly. Then he stood up, with difficulty.


    The two children has been training for a week now. Tonight, they sparred for three rounds. Although Oleander is five years older than Luciana, he couldn''t defeat her. Not even once.


    At first, Torin kept on praising Luciana for her good battle instincts and skills. But later, she won again and again. He no longer bothered about complimenting her, the girl is just too anomalous. While Oleander on the other hand kept on losing and he had to motivate him more, so he wouldn''t lose his will in fighting.


    "Put some ice on your face later when you get home." Torin instructed Oleander.


    "Kay.." Oleander frowned while touching his bruised face.


    "Let''s meet here again tomorrow. We''ll do another kind of training." Torin said.


    Luciana as always, just kept her silence. Truthfully, she''s finding it hard to spar with another kid. Half of her mind keeps on telling her to kill him. The other half says that she no longer have to do that. Her memories kept on reminding her about the past, when she''s still inside the cage. She is struggling hard to control herself, and forcibly reins in the bloodlust. Who knows how hard it was for her to keep her hands from dealing a killing blow.


    "Luci, buhbye!" Oleander smiled at her while waving his hand. Although he didn''t like losing to her, he still wants to become like a good older brother to her. Torin explained to him about Luciana''s past, and he now understand her introverted personality. Now, he no longer care even if most of the time, she ignored him. Torin also said, if he showed her kindness and stayed with her longer, they could be good friends in the future.The narrative has been stolen; if detected on Amazon, report the infringement.


    "Mm." Luciana nodded.


    "Brat, let''s leave too." Torin said to her.


    They walked for an hour before reaching their home. Torin ordered Luciana to take a bath before sleeping. Luciana reluctantly went inside the bathroom while dragging her lazy body.


    Soon, the house went silent as the two slept soundly.


    The next morning, Torin stood up early then woke up Luciana.


    "Girl, wake up." He said as he shakes her shoulder.


    Luciana groaned, then rubbed her eyes. She looked at the man whose brows are currently furrowed, blankly.


    "Hey brat, rise up. We''re going somewhere." He said, then walked out from the room.


    She yawned, then wiped the corners of her mouth, before finally leaving the comfortable bed.


    "Go wash up." Torin''s voice was heard from outside the room.


    She pursed her lips, then yawned once again before washing her face.


    They once again walked the path towards the town. After a while, Torin led her to a small store.


    The store didn''t look good, but didn''t look bad either. There''s no store signage that could be seen. The wooden walls of it were in red. Metallic odor spreads in the air, and there''s even a bit of a rusty smell.


    "This store is owned by an unusual old man. Be careful not to irk him." Torin warned her.


    Luciana bobbed her cute, small head. Wondering why Torin would bring her here.


    When they entered, the chimes on the door made a tinkling sound. The sight of different weapons greeted them, and somehow, by just looking at them you''d feel your blood boil.


    There''s no shopkeeper that entertained them. Instead, an old man wearing grey robes could be seen, sitting on a rocking chair while reading a book.


    "Old man, we''re here to look for a good weapon." Torin said to him.


    "Humm, just look around." The old man said with a gruffy voice, without even removing his eyes on the book.


    Torin uttered a sound of assent.


    "Go take a look, choose anything you like." Torin said.


    Luciana was shocked, her eyes were twinkling in excitement. She looked at Torin carefully as if wanting to hear what he said once more.


    "Brat. I told you to choose, so just choose!" Torin said, appearing irritated, but actually wanted to laugh at the girl''s current expression. ''Finally saw a childish reaction from her.'' he said inwardly.


    Luciana heavily nodded her head, then looked around every weapon she saw.


    She touched a dagger, there were scale like engravings on it, making it look grand. She weighed it on her hands, not feeling satisfied with it, she returned it on the shelf.


    She took every weapon she find interesting. There was a green colored bow coiled with something that looks like a stem, and once you touched it, you''d feel a bone-deep coldness. There was also a red sword with a silver handle, that looks and feels bloodthirsty. She also found a spear that gives off an arrogant, and overbearing aura.


    She is really finding it difficult to choose one. While Torin on the side just watched her moving around with his hands crossed in the chest.


    She arrived at the most corner part of the store. There, she saw a black knife. It was really black, that no light reflected in it. There were strange symbols written on its edges, that Luciana find surprisingly familiar, though she couldn''t understand its meaning. She didn''t notice it at first glance, but once she saw it clearly, it actually is giving off a majestic vibe.


    She held it in her left hand, then passed it on the other.


    ''It feels really good!'' she praised as she felt it resonate to her. She was about to say she wants it to Torin, when the old man spoke once again.


    "Not selling." He said, then put the book down and walked towards her.


    He was about to take the knife away from Luciana, when he was amazed by the sudden silver light coming from its engravings.


    He stopped himself immediately, then said in an excited voice, "Who are you?"

 Chapter 12 Divines Death

    "Who are you?" The old man excitedly asked.


    Luciana stared at him, she did not know how to answer. So the two just stood there, having a staring contest.


    "Ehem." Torin coughed to remove the awkward atmosphere.


    "Old man, she is my niece. Why''d you ask?" He asked curiously.


    "Hmph. You guys know nothing. That knife isn''t simple! The person who gave it to me said that it acknowledges its own master!" The old man grunted.


    "Old man, you mean that knife can choose it''s owner? And now, it recognized her?" Torin said interestedly while holding his chin.


    "That is true. I tried a lot of times already to make it acknowledge me, but it was to no avail, that man also said that you have to meet a certain condition to make it yours."


    "What condition?" Luciana suddenly spoke. She feels deep curiosity towards the knife.


    "Hmph hmph. He said it was fate." The old man replied.


    Luciana''s young mind was filled with endless question marks. Why did the knife chose her? What is that so called fate? She looked at the old man waiting to continue his story.


    "What do you mean by fate?" Torin asked.


    "Don''t ask me. I don''t know as well!" The old man angrily said.


    "Ha-ha" Torin laughed dryly and asked, "So old man, are you still not selling this knife?"


    "Hmph! Do I look as if I still have a choice?!" He loudly said. His voice was painful in the ears.


    "Oh, how much?" Torin again asked him.


    The old man thought for a while before saying to Luciana, "You''re not his niece are you?"


    "Mm." Luciana assented, not willing to tell a lie.


    "Hey! Old man!" Torin on the side shouted.


    "Do you think that just because this one is an old man already, you can fool my eyes?" He tutted. "Little Miss, tell me where are you from?"


    Luciana was silent for a while before saying, "I don''t remember."


    "Tsk, too bad." The old man said, then added, "Take that knife for free. If you''re fate is good, then I could benefit from you."


    "Haha then it''s a deal." Torin hurriedly said. Heck, who knows if the strange old man would change his mind.


    "Little miss, name it." The old man said to her.


    Luciana instantly blurted out, "Divine''s Death"


    She remembered the person who gave her a name. Devin, was his last name.[1] She wanted to always remember her dead friend, thus naming the knife after him. While feeling melancholic deep inside, she sheathed the knife carefully, then tucked it on her waist.


    The duo left the store together. When they can no longer be seen, the old man whispered to the air, "The knife can choose its owner, I hope you can choose your fate." He went back to his chair. He looked at the book on the table, then a sudden wind slowly lifted it, and flew towards him.If you discover this tale on Amazon, be aware that it has been stolen. Please report the violation.


    ~~


    The man and child pair, still didn''t left the town center. They went straight to a fruit and vegetable store.


    Torin picked out several vegetables on the stand. Radish, carrots, turnips, and other cheap ones. Luciana glanced at him and pointed her index finger on an apple.


    Torin shook his head, but still allowed her to take one. Upon picking an apple, Luciana immediately took a bite. It was sweet and juicy. Crunching sound could be heard as she chewed it. She smiled contentedly but immediately returned her lips back to normal. It was her first time eating an apple after being free, she almost couldn''t remember how it tasted. Now, she knew it was delicious, like in her memories.


    Torin paid about a hundred copper, then the store owner happily put it all inside a sack.


    "We''re done here. Let''s go home." Torin said.


    When they were already outside the house, Torin dropped the sack on the ground. He went inside, and brought two chairs and a table.


    "Take out your knife. Peel everything inside of this sack." He said while taking out vegetables.


    Luciana''s mouth formed an ''O'', while looking at the numerous vegetables she had to peel.


    "Close your mouth, flies would enter." Torin smirked. "This is also your training. Peeling those would help you have a better control in using a knife." He explained, then proceeded to walk inside the house. Before closing the door, he added while laughing, "That may be our food tonight. Do a good job."


    After a few hours, when Luciana''s hands almost fell down from the numbing pain, Torin finally decided to stop her. Her hands are trembling a bit.


    He walked out from the house, then randomly picked a vegetable. As Luciana look at him, she''s licking the blood of the small wounds in her fingers.


    "You peeled this too thick." He complained while holding the radish and looking at the peeled skins on the ground.


    Luciana looked at this middle aged man, thinking how could he thought of such a bizarre way of training.


    "Anyway, these are all still edible. I''ll go ask that woman next door to help us make some preserved veggies." He said while pointing at the vegetables on the table. "When I get back, we''ll eat dinner, then go meet with olly boy."


    Luciana nodded, she slumped on the chair and sighed heavily. It was actually hard to do all that. Then, she stared at the vegetables like they are her mortal enemies, and released air from her nose loudly.


    Not having to wait for long, Luciana could already see Torin from afar, walking with a woman.


    When they came near, Torin introduced her, "This is Mari, call her Aunt Mari."


    "Hey! I''m not that old yet!" She rolled her eyes towards Torin, then looked and smiled at Luciana. "Missy, you should be Little Luci right? You can call me big sister okay?"


    Luciana carefully looked at her. Mari has clean white skin, blonde hair, curved eyebrows, bluish eyes, small nose and red, painted lips. She looks a bit younger than Torin. She smells really nice like a fresh rose, but with how she dresses plainly while holding a wooden basin, she''s obviously not so well off.


    "Aunt Mari." She greeted.


    "Pfft." Torin stifled a laugh. He could swear, that ever since taking in the girl, his solemn reputation before, is now slowly being threatened to change.


    Mari punched him softly on his shoulders, and glared at him.


    "That''s fine, you can call me whatever you like." She said regaining her smiling face. "I will also bring you some food next time. I''m sure you haven''t tasted ''real'' food, in this guy''s house." She said, as she mocked Torin''s cooking skill.


    ''She should have brought food now instead.'' Luciana thought.


    "Oi take all the peeled ones. You can get half of it for yourself." Torin interrupted Mari and said impatiently while pointing at the table.


    "Shh still grumpy ey. I know okay? I''ll get them now." Mari walked slowly, then put all of the skinned vegetables inside the basin she''s carrying.


    "I''ll go now, you take care." She said to him, while Torin only gave her a grunt in return.


    Mari ignored him and winked at Luciana. "I only live a few minutes away from here, if you need anything, just look for me."


    Luciana nodded her head, anticipating the food she could get from her future cooking pot.


    _______


    [1] Just to clarify, Devin means divine. And since he is dead, she called it Divine''s Death. Cringy right?

 Chapter 13 Fire and Water

    "Hot!! It''s so hot!!" Oleander shouted as he rose from the lake, and rushed towards the land. His clothes were dripping wet, his skin was a bit reddish.


    "What''s happening?!" Torin asked him, as he helped Oleander out of the water.


    "I dunno!! It suddenly feels as if the water is boiling!!" He replied, as he slumped into the ground. He gazed back at the lake, panick could still be seen in his eyes.


    "Luciana!!! Where is Luciana?!" Torin exclaimed, worry instantly filled his heart. He intended to dive into the water, but then, the lake suddenly started boiling. Bubbles were endlessly popping, and smoke instantly surrounded the water. The temperature around fastly increased.


    Torin brought Oleander and Luciana tonight in a small lake to train them. It was a normal lake, and no one could predict that such a thing could happen.


    Torin and Oleander''s faces were pale white, as they look at the water. They couldn''t imagine Luciana being able to survive from this. They just stayed still in their places, with no intention of leaving. They just look at the lake blankly, not able to comprehend the event that''s happening in front of their eyes.


    The boiling intensified, the once peaceful lake, has turned into a lava like existence. The two men has forgotten the coldness of the place before. Sweat drops kept on falling from their heads. They find it hard to hear anything, besides the thumping of their hearts, that keeps on beating erratically.


    ~~


    The long black hair of a girl is floating weightless, as she stays underwater. She couldn''t hear a thing- it was void.


    The girl raised her head. She looked at the light seeping into the water. It was cold, devoid of any warmth. She didn''t know if there were tears in her eyes, but she is sure that she feels really sad. She felt lonely and secluded.


    Her heart felt really heavy. She couldn''t breathe. No, she forgot to breathe. She felt helpless. She wanted to shout, but she couldn''t move her lips. She felt like a statue, slowly sinking in. Endless memories passed through her head. She hated water. She just remembered, that tonight, isn''t the first time she''s drowning.


    ''Is this my end?'' she thought. Then everything around her went black.


    ~~


    "Do you think, I''ve let myself suffer so much, just to let you get everything i want?" The high pitch voice of a woman echoed, as she pointed her index finger at a toddler.


    "You are the successor? dream on!" She approached her, then grabbed the face of the child, burying her long fingernails on her face.


    "Waaa Hurts! Feifei hurts!" The little one cried.


    "Ever since you were born, you have always ruined my plans! So what if you are the successor? Fire? Doesn''t fire have a nemesis too?" The woman laughed crazily, making her look scarier.


    "Make it appear as an accident." She suddenly said in a cold tone, ordering the men behind.


    "Yes Madame!" They said in unison.Support creative writers by reading their stories on Royal Road, not stolen versions.


    She glanced at the girl who''s body is shaking from fear.


    "His lordship, definitely could not save you this time." The woman smirked.


    "Mama!" The girl shouted as she saw the woman walking away from her. She tried to reach her with her little hands, but the men already lifted her up. "Mama! Mama! Feifei good! Mama!" She cried loudly, her tears pour down like a fountain.


    ~~


    Suddenly, the lake was engulfed by a white light. To be exact, the lake was engulfed by white fire! Torin and Oleander couldn''t believe their eyes. They looked at the water, that is evaporating fastly into vapor, feeling shaken inside.


    "What the hell is happening?" Torin whispered.


    "U-uncle, let''s leave." Oleander said with trembling lips.


    Torin shot a hard glare at him. "We are not leaving until we see her!"


    "But, she can''t be alive!" Oleander cried, and before he could even say another word, the fire abruptly intensified, fastly reaching the two. They could only close their eyes, knowing they couldn''t escape. But the expected pain from it, didn''t happen.


    "This.." Said Torin, wide mouthed.


    When Oleander heard Torin, he also opened up his eyes. The fire that envelopes them, wasn''t hot, instead, it was warm. The wet clothes he was wearing, turned completely dry. And, the lake in front is no longer a body of water, but a dried up land.


    There are so many unbelievable things that happened tonight, making them both amazed and horrified at the same time.


    When they recovered from shock, they immediately saw the white haired girl lying down on the dry lake. She appeared unharmed, and white fire also envelopes her.


    Torin instantly rushed towards her. He checked the girl carefully. And when he saw that she is alive, he sighed in relief.


    Torin carefully helped her to sit. She opened her eyes, but she isn''t breathing. The poor girl has blank eyes, and her body is trembling.


    "Luciana, breathe." Torin softly said. "Breathe. It is fine now. Breathe, just breathe.


    *Gasp!* She took in air quickly. *Cough cough* The white fire is retracting slowly.


    "Good. Calm down and breathe." Torin removed his coat and covered Luciana''s now, white hair again.


    He lifted her up into his arms, and repeatedly hummed a sound to calm her.


    When she finally fell into sleep, and is no longer releasing fire, Oleander approached them and said, "Uncle! Is Luci--"


    "Enough! Let''s hurry and leave first." Torin said. He isn''t stupid. Although he is not sure of the entire thing, he knows that the cause of all this, is none other than the girl in his arms. He quickly ran away from the lake.


    "Oleander ran faster!" He shouted. What happened tonight would definitely attract a lot of people, and he didn''t want others to take the little girl away. And he was right. Just a little while after the incident, plenty of people had gathered into that lake, including some people from the revolutionary. But the three wouldn''t know about it, since they have already left the place.


    When they finally reached home, he put the girl down into the bed and covered her with quilt. Torin felt guilty. Perhaps, if he didn''t bring her there, this wouldn''t happen.


    He turned around and said to the boy behind, "What happened tonight, only the three of us would know."


    "Uncle.." Oleander called.


    "Am I understood?" Torin asked with deep, cold voice. Making Oleander felt a bit scared.


    "Yes." He replied weakly.


    "Sigh, I know you''re shocked with everything, and so am I. But nobody could know about this, do you understand?" Torin said with a tired voice.


    "I understand." Oleander nodded his head.


    "Go home first, let''s stop training for a few days. Rest for a while." He instructed.


    Oleander nodded, and shot Luciana one last, complicated glance, and left their house.


    Torin took a chair and sat beside the bed. He brushed her hair softly. Then held the sleeping girl''s small hand.


    "Don''t leave me." She whispered, a tear fell down on her cheeks.


    Torin felt the girl tighten her hold to him. He wiped her tear away, and replied, "I won''t. Just sleep. Sleep well."


    ''I will never leave you.'' He vowed.

 Chapter 14 Another Dream

    Not long after Torin and the children left, around the time when the sun is about to show up, people started gathering together in the same place.


    "What happened here?"


    Sounds of gasping and astonishment could be heard all over the once, small lake. Undefinable scent lingers in the area. The temperature of the place is still high, and smoke is still floating around, making everyone present sweat a bit. There were no evidence of what really happened, besides the huge white light they saw from afar. If not for seeing it with their own eyes, then they wouldn''t believe that the lake has turned into nothing in an instant.


    Theon Ruggiero knitted his eyebrows upon witnessing the sight. He is currently wearing normal civilian clothes, and his hair is tied into a simple ponytail. He perfectly blended in with the onlookers.


    "Investigate what happened here." He said to the man behind him.


    "Yes sire." The man replied, and bowed.


    "Is this a supernatural thing? Or a man-made incident?" Theon whispered and touched his chin, he asked himself, ''If it is man-made, then who has the ability to do this?''


    ~~


    Luciana, after walking for a long time on an endless path filled with fog, saw a huge door in front of her. She stared at the it for a while. It was golden, and shines brightly. The surface looks really smooth, and the fancy handle matches the door perfectly.


    Luciana turned the knob, then entered inside. She found herself inside a majestic chamber.


    ''Is this a dream?'' She asked herself. She felt confused, but still appeared calm while looking around the place.


    The floor is made from white and clear marbles. Grand draperies stitched with an image of a fire breathing dragon, surrounds the entire room. The light coming from the numerous lamps attached on the wall, made the place filled with warm radiance.


    She looked up, and saw the high ceiling covered in painting. The night sky was painted on it that was so realistic. The full silver moon glows along the stars in the inky sky. You have to take a double look, to realize it was only a painting.


    She continued to observe the place, and somehow got a feeling of familiarity.


    *Giggles*


    Suddenly, the cute laugh of a little toddler could be heard inside the chamber. Luciana, not knowing where to go, decided to walk towards the direction the sound came from.


    A man wearing gallant red clothes was sitting on a huge chair, while looking happily at the little child on his lap.


    Luciana couldn''t see his face properly, it was blurred. Though, even without clearly seeing him, she felt at ease and comfortable. As if, she already knew the man from long ago.Unauthorized duplication: this tale has been taken without consent. Report sightings.


    She stayed not too far from them, but the two person didn''t seem to notice her.


    "Can I be yike you da-da?!" The childish voice of the girl was heard again. [1]


    The man brushed her head lovingly, "Of course my child." His voice was deep and powerful, but contained warmth.


    "Yiyii?" She asked excitedly. [2]


    "Yes." He said, while still looking at her gently. "You should grow up strong like dada, to take over my place."


    Although the man was still smiling, his tone hints a bit of pain on it.


    The girl''s face clearly shows confusion, but she still nodded her head.


    He poked her small head, making her pout cutely, then continued, "Dada wouldn''t always be with you, that''s why you have to be strong. Strong enough, so that no one could bully you."


    His smile disappeared for a while, as he looked at the girl seriously. "Promise me, my child."


    "Mm" the girl once again bobbed her head.


    Luciana walked towards him. She tried to reach out with her hand, but she couldn''t touch him. Her hand just passed through his face, as if just touching air.


    She suddenly felt as if her heart became heavy. Her eyes became red, but she refused to cry. She stared at the man who is smiling at the little girl. *Hiccup* She struggled not to let out her tears. Her heart felt so empty. She balled out her fist then pounded her hand to her chest. She forgot to breathe for a while.


    After calming down herself for a bit, with a brittle voice she vowed, "I will become strong."


    She didn''t know why she said that, or why she felt as if the man''s words were for her. But she knows that her promise, is not only for the man, but also for herself. She would become strong. So strong, that she wouldn''t fall under other people''s thumb.


    ~~


    Midday, at the eastern revolutionary camp.


    "Are you bored?" Theon Ruggiero asked upon entering a small room. He is no longer wearing the common clothes he wore before dawn. Instead, he''s dressed with a simple and elegant white robes.


    "Why do you care?" The boy on the bed replied blandly. He is currently wearing blue robes, and has bandages all over his body.


    "Don''t be like that." Theon said, then sat on a stool beside him. "Tell me if you need anything, I''ll see if I can do something about it."


    "Why don''t you just leave me alone?" The boy grumbled.


    "Amias, I just want to show my goodwill towards you. You don''t have to be so guarded." He said calmly while looking at him.


    "I told you.. I don''t want to do it.." Amias avoided his stare. He still feel nervous with the man''s presence.


    "Don''t be too quick to refuse, you still have a lot of time to decide about it." Theon tried convincing him.


    Amias remained silent after hearing that. He just lay down on his bed and covered himself with a quilt, refusing to talk any longer.


    Theon sighed upon seeing Amias'' action. He just stood up, then said before leaving, "Rest well and recuperate."


    Before Theon completely left the room, he heard Amias speak.


    "Did you find her?"


    Theon didn''t even need to think for long, to know who he''s talking about. Ever since the boy woke up, the only name that comes out from his mouth is Luciana, the white haired girl.


    "Not yet." He answered. When Theon felt like he no longer intended to say anything, he shut the door and left the room.


    After a while, Amias sat back up, then he gazed out the window. His purple eyes looked dull and lifeless.


    "Luciana, where are you?" He whispered. "Did you know? They let me eat a lot of food here..."


    He paused, then wiped the tear that fell down on his cheek and continued, "Are you eating properly? I wish you are here too, so I could share all my food with you.."


    [1] yike= like


    [2] yiyii= really

 Chapter 15 Waking Up

    The crowing of roosters sounded simultaneously, as the sun started to peek from the horizon.


    Torin awakened, not from their cackles, but from the small noise made by the girl on the bed.


    He immediately sat straight, then looked at Luciana properly. He is making sure that the movements made by her was not hallucination.


    "Brat, are you awake?" He asked in a soft tone.


    Luciana groaned. Her eyelids trembled, and her long lashes moved. She felt that her body was a bit numb. She hissed a bit as she tried to rise from bed.


    She glanced at Torin on her side. Though his face still wears it''s normal stoic face, you could still see the worry in his eyes. His face looked haggard. Bags were under his eyes, and his lips were chapped. Even his hair is like a bird''s nest.


    She found herself uncontrollably smile. The combination of Torin''s looks and voice is a bit comical. Though, that isn''t the reason she smiled. It was because she felt happy with the man''s concern, making her feel as if she''s with her father.


    Torin blinked in surprise upon seeing her smile. He was speechless for a while. That smile heightened the child''s beauty. Her face was so pure and her hair white as snow, add it with her curved lips, you''d mistake her for an angel.


    *Cough cough*


    He coughed upon recovering himself. "You were asleep for three days." He said, then added, "Can you move?"


    Luciana removed the smile on her face and nodded.


    "Then, come out and let''s eat breakfast. Your aunt Mari has brought a lot of food upon knowing you''re sick." He stood up and started walking out the room.


    He prepared two plates and two cups. He filled the plates with bread and eggs, and the cups with fresh milk.


    "You sure know how to make people worry." Torin grumbled upon seeing the girl sat. He appeared grumpy, but was actually relieved after Luciana woke up.


    While eating, the two remained quiet. Luciana hasn''t eaten for days, so she ate fastly, leaving bread crumbs on her lips. Torin tutted and wiped her mouth. He wanted to pretend as if that incident never happened before, but the girl''s question didn''t allow him to.


    "What happened in the lake?" Luciana asked.


    Torin sighed. "You have fire magic right?"


    "Mm." Luciana nodded. She never intended to keep it a secret. She was just too lazy to talk about it.


    Torin already knew the answer, but still wanted to hear her confirmation.


    "Do you really not remember anything?"


    Luciana thought for a while, but in the end shook her head.Unauthorized usage: this tale is on Amazon without the author''s consent. Report any sightings.


    "There was a fire.." He opened and closed his mouth, finding it hard to explain. "..it was really unbelievable. Upon seeing it dry out the whole lake, I knew how hot it could be. But, when it reached us, I didn''t feel any pain. We weren''t burned."


    "That white fire was yours." He looked straight at Luciana. "You dried out the whole lake. Then you passed out."


    Luciana remained silent. She was aware about the strength of her magic, and she didn''t find the drying up of lake weird. What made her get into deep thought was, hearing for the first time that her fire didn''t hurt other people.


    At the fighting house, after her first time killing, she refused to go inside the cage again to kill another child. She went berserk and annihilated a lot of men. But because she was too weak at that time, she ended up being caught by them. She wouldn''t get tied with iron chains for no reason.


    She didn''t know why that incident didn''t spread out, and why no one said a single word about it. It left her filled with questions, and until now it remained a mystery. After a lot of time passed, she has eventually forgotten about it too.


    When Torin didn''t hear her talk, he thought she was worried about someone else knowing about her magic. Awakening strong magic is not necessarily a blessing for an orphaned kid. If wrong people found out about it, then it could actually be a curse.


    "No one knows that it was you who did that, aside from me and Olly." He said to reassure her. "You don''t have to worry. We won''t talk about it to anyone."


    Luciana didn''t expect what he said. She was so absorbed into her thoughts, that she didn''t consider about that. She isn''t worried about Torin, and she didn''t think that Oleander could betray her. But if someone else knew about it, then that would be a bad thing.


    "We will help you hide it." Torin added. "We never went to that lake."


    Luciana felt warm with Torin''s obvious concern. She smiled again and said, "Thank you uncle."


    Torin think that the girl needs to smile more often. Her smile could make even the darkest place brighten up. It is warm, like her fire. You would feel safe when you''re near.


    "After eating I''ll help you dye your hair again." He said, changing the topic.


    Luciana held some of her hair in her hand. She loves the color of it. Like what Amias said, it was like light. But since Torin wanted to dye her hair, then it is fine too. Having the same hair color with him, makes her feel more like he''s family.


    "By the way, I bought some iron rings." He said. "Although it wouldn''t be so effective because of it''s small size, Maybe you should use them, so you won''t accidentally use your magic." Torin suggested.


    "Okay." She agreed. Using iron rings would be better than wearing chains, she thought.


    After a moment, Torin was the one who broke the silence once again.


    "Olly boy should also be worried about you, let''s visit his house later." Torin said.


    She has never seen Oleander''s home and his family. She felt curious about them. So, she nodded her head and then continued munching her food.


    After eating, Torin took out an empty container. He mixed the dye, and only stopped when he was satisfied with the color. He let Luciana sit infront of him, then carefully combed her hair. He dipped a brush on the container then started applying the color on her head.


    Luciana just sat there, waiting for her hair to dry. Upon drying, Torin pushed her into the bathroom.


    "Go take a bath. You are so smelly!" Torin laughed.


    With a wronged face, she went inside the bathroom and closed the door.


    ''You''re smelly too!'' She answered in her mind, with a crinkled nose.


    Torin''s smile instantly vanished upon seeing her went inside. He sighed. His worries about the little girl, is still lingering. He had a feeling, that from now on, they wouldn''t be able to live in peace.


    He should help the girl to grow stronger, so she could protect herself. She wouldn''t grow, if he''d always be beside her. Maybe it''s time to change his way of training her, or else he wouldn''t feel at ease. He should rush in increasing her strength.


    He sat there, until Luciana went out again, thinking about his plans for her.

 Chapter 16 Dax Mavi

    "Luci, I am happy you''re okay now! You didn''t know how worried I and uncle was when you didn''t wake up for days!" Oleander said in a rising tone with his hands moving, as if telling an exaggerated story.


    Torin knocked his head lightly. "Who''s worried? You brat! Just eat your food!"


    Oleander looked at him with resentment. He still wanted to continue his story, but he still complied. He will no longer talk until he finish eating.


    Luciana happily tastes every dish served on them. They ordered vegetable and meat dishes. She especially liked the meat. It was called spicy stir fried beef. Red and green bell peppers, added with mushrooms enhances the color that makes it appear appetizing. Plus the spicy taste that has a slight burning feeling in the tongue is really satisfying for Luciana.


    Torin watched as the two enjoys their food. He decided to treat the two children in a restaurant. They have all been under so much stress these days. He thinks that going out to have fun for a while was a good idea for the two kids.


    "HOW DARE YOU BLOCK ME!" a sudden shout of a man from the top floor where VIP''s stay, startled everyone. "DONT YOU FORGET! I AM STILL A NOBLE!!"


    "Tse. A fallen one you mean?" Then the laughter of a group of men sounded. Ridicule was obvious on their tones.


    "Sir, please just leave." The waiter said towards the one who shouted, his tone was not a bit polite.


    "WHAT THE HELL!? DO I LOOK LIKE I DO NOT HAVE MONEY TO PAY?!" The man shouted once again. His face was all red in embarrassment, but the waiter just stood in front of him, not intending to let him pass through.


    The prices in the restaurant varies on where you''re staying. Obviously, Torin and the two kids stay in the lowest level. Though, you can''t underestimate the prices in there. It is still costly even for an average family. Imagining it like that, the price in the VIP section should be worth a lot.


    "Dax Mavi, are you even sure you can afford a single meal here?" One of the Noble''s asked mockingly. "You should stay away from us, we don''t need leeches here."


    Dax gripped his hands. "FINE! I''M LEAVING!" He said, then flipped his sleeves and turned around to leave.


    Murmurs began to start. Some even pointed their hands towards the man who''s leaving, making him grew more irritated.


    "Tsk Mavi family only have few members and Dax didn''t even have magic. How could he still call himself a noble." A man spoke, though not loud, it was still audible to a lot of people.


    "Indeed. Truly shameless." Replied the man beside him, as he chuckled.


    Dax was so frustrated, he was born a noble. If only his parents didn''t die, then these people would still look at him with respect. Now, even some unknown people talk shit about him.


    In his irritation, he suddenly got an idea. If he couldn''t fight against the Nobles then he''d just vent his anger out to others that he could bully. Thinking like that, he slammed the table nearby where three common civilians were sitted.This novel is published on a different platform. Support the original author by finding the official source.


    *Bang*


    The table was immediately broken, and the food now scattered on the floor.


    It just so happened that the table the guy broke was the table Torin and his group were using.


    Luciana was still holding a fork, and was about to swallow the meat on it when the table was ruined in an instant. She looked at the food on the ground with furrowed brows. It is her first time to eat in a restaurant, and she didn''t even get to enjoy it before it was all gone.


    Oleander was also disappointed when he saw the wasted food. He glared at the young noble. He look as if he wants to say something, but he didn''t speak in the end.


    "What? Do you have a problem?" He taunted. Obviously looking for trouble.


    Torin just took Oleander towards his back, to avoid a fight.


    "We don''t. I''m sorry if we have ever offended you." He said.


    The noble sneered, "pathetic". He was disappointed when they were not provoked. He turned around again, then completely left the restaurant with a bad mood.


    Luciana glanced at the disappearing back of the young noble. She felt that there is something amiss. So she just continued to observe.


    The Noble''s action really made Oleander angry. "Uncle, are we letting him just like that?"


    "Let it pass." Torin said. "The consequences of offending a noble is severe. Even if the Noble''s family isn''t prominent."


    Luciana saw Torin''s action as a bit abnormal. In her view, Torin isn''t someone who''s afraid of provoking a noble. He always have a protective attitude towards them, yet he seems to be avoiding a fight. Acting now or later, Torin obviously do not have any intention to retaliate.


    "But uncle!" Oleander complained. His eyes clearly shows that he wants to fight back.


    "Stop!" Torin sharply said. The atmosphere turned colder than usual.


    Oleander felt Torin''s mood now, and shut his mouth. He was really reluctant to leave. He glared at the direction where the young noble went and harrumphed.


    ''Too arrogant!'' he said in his mind.


    Torin right now was actually shocked. He didn''t expect to see the young noble here. He was glad that the boy didn''t recognize him. If he did, then there''d be more problem.


    He, of course wanted to protect the children he brought with him, but he also didn''t want to hurt the other person. Since the young noble didn''t actually harm them, then he could let it go.


    Luciana has seen all the facial expressions Torin has made in a short time. Now, she''s even more convinced that there''s something about Torin and the Mavi guy. She decided to ask him after they went home. Besides, talking here is inconvenient as everyone inside looks at them like a spectacle.


    The three are wearing cheap clothes. Although it was clean, you could still guess their humble origins. Everyone looks at them with disgust in their eyes. The three were originally seating at a corner, so as to not catch attention. But with the commotion the noble made, the people started to notice them.


    She feels unsettled with everyone''s gazes. It''s like she''s back in the cage. She was the center of attention, and the people looked at her as a source of entertainment. With the familiar feeling, she unconsciously emitted a bloodthirsty aura making everyone looking at her shiver.


    Torin also felt the change in Luciana, which made him recover from his thoughts. He went near her and patted her head, making her back to herself.


    "Let''s go home. We''ll eat again here next time." He said to her. Torin knew she was uncomfortable, so leaving the place now is a wise choice.


    The influence of being trapped really has a huge effect on Luciana. She can still remember every look the people from the fighting house gave her. Some looks at her with disgust, some with pity, and some with scorn. It really isn''t nice to be watched.


    ''I am no longer caged. I am free.'' she repeated in her mind like a mantra.

 Chapter 17 Torins Story (part 1)

    Luciana, Torin and Oleander, has no other choice but to pay for their unfinished meal, and leave the restaurant.


    Oleander still felt mad about the incident a while ago, while Luciana has just returned back to herself. Torin knew that they''re no longer in the mood to do anything, so he decided to just separate ways and went to their own houses. Torin and Luciana left together, and Oleander went straight to his home.


    Upon arriving at their shabby house, Torin saw Luciana instantly slumped into the chair lazily.


    He shook his head and said, "you lazy brat."


    Luciana didn''t care and just continued lying down. After finding a comfortable position, she raised her head and looked at Torin.


    "Who is he?" She asked. She is really curious about the noble from before.


    Torin stopped a bit from removing his shoes. He was silent for a while and then continued what he''s doing. "What are you talking about?" He said pretending not to know.


    "Mavi guy." Luciana again said.


    Torin finally couldn''t feign ignorance. He glanced at Luciana, with a complicated look on his face. ''Is she that observant?''


    After a few seconds he finally said, "Do you really have to know?" He sighed, not sure if he''s asking her or himself.


    Luciana saw his expression and knew that he''s really going to answer her question. So, she sat properly and looked at Torin with eyes that says, ''yes. I want to know''


    "I guess it''s better for you to know what kind of person you are living with." He said, his voice contained sadness.


    "He is the grandson of the noble I served before." Torin started his story. He sighed while remembering his past. "I was a warrior. Though I don''t have magic, I am still blessed with a natural talent in fighting. Dax''s grandfather saw my talent and recruited me to be his personal guard."


    ~


    Around 12 years ago.


    A roundhouse kick greeted a man just when he was about to punch his opponent. He was thrown down to the ground, rolling in pain.


    "Damn you Torin. I still can''t win against you." The man on the ground cursed, while holding his jaws with his hands.


    "Hahaha you''re just too weak! You stupid pig! Go up. Stop pretending that it hurts a lot." A handsome man replied while laughing.


    "But it actually hurts a lot! My face, is it still intact?" The man slowly stood up while holding his face.


    "Don''t worry. Kiicking your face a few more times, wouldn''t affect your ugliness anymore." Torin smirked playfully.


    "Can''t you be any nicer?" The man grumbled.


    "Heh, the truth has always been harsh." He laughed.Unauthorized usage: this tale is on Amazon without the author''s consent. Report any sightings.


    "Daddy!" The charming voice of a little girl was heard all over the training grounds. Her height is a bit over three feet, and her body is just right for a six year old kid. Her long black hair is tied in a pig tail, her face is clear, her eyes are sparkling and pure, while her mouth is beautifully curved upwards.


    When Torin saw her, his smile widened further, and he readily opened up his arms to catch the running kid. Upon holding her up, he detected the scent of sugar. It was really nice to smell.


    "Why is my beloved here?" He asked the girl with a gentle voice.


    "I missed you daddy!" Then she gave a peck towards his cheeks.


    "I missed my daughter too." Torin smiled stupidly. "Where''s your mom?"


    She scratched her head then said, "I, I think I left mom. Raya''s so excited to see dad, Raya forgot mom was following me."


    "You silly kid, how could you forget your mommy." The soft voice of a woman was heard, as she curve her lips into a beautiful smile while she walked her way towards the father and daughter pair.


    Her movements were so gentle, and she walks with grace. Her silky brown hair was tied up into a simple bun. Her brows are thin and arched, her eyes resembled the child''s, and her lips are small and formed into a smile.


    Torin saw her instantly, and couldn''t help but feel his heart skip a beat. This woman, they''ve been married for years and yet, could still make his heart flutter.


    "Little Raya, come down. Your daddy is tired from training." She said after kissing Torin''s other cheek. Torin immediatey smelled her natural fragrance, something sweet and somehow like vanilla.


    "Daddy is Raya heavy?" The girl pursed her lips and blinked her eyes cutely.


    "Of course not. I can carry my Raya all the time and not get tired." Torin boasted.


    "You heard it mommy? Daddy is strooong! He can carry Raya!" She said happily.


    "Torin, don''t spoil her too much." The woman reprimanded him.


    "Haha but it''s true Isla, Raya isn''t heavy at all. Right my baby?" He asked the girl in his arms. Raya bobbed her head, and he laughed. Then, he turned his gaze towards his wife. "By the way, why are you here?"


    "Raya keeps on saying that she misses her daddy. So here we are. We decided to come over and brought some snacks with us." Isla said, with a loving gaze. She raised the basket she''s carrying, showing them the food.


    "What did I do in my past life, to get a wonderful woman just like you?" Torin shamelessly flirted with his wife.


    Isla''s face turned a bit red with her husband''s antics. "I also don''t know why I am blessed by the heavens with a handsome, and caring man like you."


    "Hey hey hey! You''re all forgetting me. Isla, did you brought extra foods for me?" The man who''s training with Torin asked with a toothy grin, interrupting the two who are in their own world.


    "You! My wife brought those foods for me! You stupid pig!" Torin loudly said, still with a laugh.


    "Why? I deserve to eat some good food after getting beaten up by you! Damn, stingy guy!" The man replied.


    Isla looked at them whilst smiling. "Watch your mouth guys, my little girl could hear you."


    Torin and the man shut off their mouths like good kids.


    She laughed and said, "Marcus, of course I prepared some for you too. Come, let''s all eat for a while."


    "See? The lady is so generous, not like some guy here." The man who''s called Marcus snickered.


    "Daddy is generous to Raya too!" Raya said proudly.


    "Yes, daddy is generous." Torin nodded his head.


    "Hey, don''t feed lies to your child''s head." Marcus tutted.


    "I am not lying. It is the truth." Torin pursed his lips, but his eyes show a trace of mischief.


    "What''s up in here?" The figure of a man could be seen a few meters away from them. As he walks towards their group, you couldn''t help but drop your jaw at how handsome the man is. His hair is blonde, his skin is Jade like, his thick brows were shaped like a sword, while his eyes are slanted upwards.


    He is smiling gently, and is giving off a warm aura. You could instantly feel comfortable whenever you''re near him.


    Though, Isla thinks otherwise. She always have a feeling that the man isn''t exactly the same as he portrays himself to be, but she couldn''t pinpoint what''s really wrong about him. She just knows, that she couldn''t feel relaxed everytime the man is around.

 Chapter 18 Torins Story (Part 2)

    Isla shoved the uncomfortable feeling to the back of her mind, and took Raya from Torin. Her action made the girl frown, but she still reluctantly allowed her mother to carry her.


    "Young sire, My wife brought some snacks, would you like to join us in eating?" Torin politely offered.


    "That sounds nice! I would love to taste the food your beautiful wife makes. I''m sure it definitely tastes good. It''s just too bad, I still need to go somewhere." The man refused with a very warm voice. His left hand is on his back, while the other is holding a fan.


    Torin laughed loudly, feeling proud about his wife, while Isla smiled awkwardly with his remark. "You''re over-praising me sire."


    The man sighed in a playful manner then said, "Why are you all being so polite towards me. Young sire, young sire! I have a name!"


    The three exchanged glances, not knowing how to respond. After a very short time, Torin could only muster up a few words. "That doesn''t seem fine?"


    "Sigh.. And I thought that you treat me as a family. I am so disappointed." He replied exaggeratedly.


    Torin''s lips couldn''t help but twitch. "Young-- I, it''s not like that."


    "Then what? Do you still treat me like a stranger? Call me by my name- Garth." The young man named Garth said with a serious tone.


    "Okay youn-- Garth." Torin said.


    "Hahaha! Good good!" He happily laughed exposing his white teeth. His current expression could entice a lot of women. "Then I''ll go now. Eat well!"


    "My wife cooks really well, are you sure you don''t want to stay for a bit longer?" Torin asked.


    "No I''m sorry. I really need to leave now. I''ll join you guys next time." Garth said, then glanced at Raya and smiled. "Raya, be a good girl okay?"


    Raya flinched a bit when she saw the man extending his hand on her head. But because she couldn''t move properly in her mother''s arms, she could only allow him to pat her head. She just frowned and didn''t say anything.


    "Goodbye!" Garth bade farewell.


    When his silhouette could no longer be seen from the distance, Raya blurted out.


    "Mom, Raya don''t like him." She said while pouting.


    Torin heard her say that and frowned. "Raya don''t talk like that. The Young sire is our benefactor, be polite. We should always remember our place. Just because his family treats us well, doesn''t mean we can be disrespectful towards them."


    Raya closed her mouth and nodded. It is rare for her father to scold her. Her eyes instantly became moist. She bit her lips, then burrowed her head into Isla''s chest.


    "Torin, it''s fine. She still doesn''t understand what she''s saying." Isla softly said, but in her heart she only felt more uncomfortable upon hearing her daughter say that. She repeatedly tapped Raya''s back to calm the girl down.Unauthorized use: this story is on Amazon without permission from the author. Report any sightings.


    "She should know these things already." Torin said strictly. But when he saw how his daughter tried really hard not to cry, he can only sigh. His weak point has always been his daughter. He seem to not really be able to watch her cry.


    "Don''t cry my Raya. Daddy isn''t mad."


    Raya took a peek at her father. When she''s sure that he''s really not mad, she extended her arms towards him.


    Torin also reached out to her to carry her once again.


    "I''m sorry daddy." She whispered.


    "It''s fine, it''s fine. Daddy is sorry too." He answered.


    "Tsk come on! I''m hungry." The forgotten Marcus said. "Let''s just eat!"


    Isla smiled and said, "right. Let''s go and eat."


    "My darling daughter, you hear that? We''re going to eat now." Torin said with a teasing voice.


    What he said seems to be effective. Raya''s face instantly brightened up. Imagining all the food her mother made, and finally being able to eat then, she excitedly said,


    "Daddy, mommy didn''t let Raya eat the food without you." She complained. "Now daddy is here, Raya can eat already!"


    ~~


    "You told me you don''t have a family." Luciana said, emotionless.


    "Yes. I don''t. Atleast, not anymore." Torin replied sadly.


    Luciana was quiet, waiting for Torin to continue his story. When she saw him absent-minded, she initiated the conversation once again.


    "You are my family." She declared. Yes, she already treat Torin as a real family. She owed him too much. The roof she lives in, the food she enjoys every day, the training he gives her, and all the help he gave her. Beside him, she feels safe and calm. He may appear cold and detached, but you can still feel the hidden warmth, if you know him long enough.


    Torin awakened from his daydream. It was hard to reminisce his past. Every time he thinks about it, he felt suffocated. When he heard Luciana''s declaration, it is as if someone woke him up from his nightmare. He gazed at Luciana and saw in her eyes real sincerity.


    Torin smiled, and his feelings lighten up. He gathered all his courage, and reminded himself that there''s a very important girl in front of him who he believes, will not leave him and judge him easily. Thinking like that, he said with a croaky voice, "thank you."


    He took out a cigarette from his pocket and puffed it, then smoke floated around the two. He inhaled deeply, and opened his mouth to follow up with his story.


    "Our days have been lived in peace. I''ll be training in the Mavi''s place early in the morning. At break fast, my wife would bring food sometimes. During lunch, she would also bring some. And besides from those, and sleeping every night, i am often found accompanying the Mavi family head by his side."


    ~~


    "Torin, i wish you were my son." A bearded oldman said. His hair is white, with few black strands on it. His face is full of wrinkles, and his mouth is formed into a warm smile. He is wearing a striking yellow robe, making him easily noticeable. The color suits him quite well- bubbly and bright. The old man is none other than the head of the Mavi family- Dean Mavi.


    The room they''re in has a traditional vibe. All the seats were made from wood, and are all carved with different designs. The paintings also depicts the life in a rural region. There were farmers, fishermen, and etc who came to bond with nature.


    "This one, couldn''t accept such praise old sire. I''m afraid i am not qualified." Torin humbly answered.


    "Sigh, such a good temperament. You are also dependable, not like my other sons. Sometimes i wonder whether it is you or is it my son''s that are the real noble."


    "They''re just too young old sire, and haven''t experienced much in their life. We should also lessen our expectations for them, not everyone enjoys being pressured."


    "You know that I''m already growing older and older. Huh, then for how long should I wait?"


    "Don''t worry too much about them. For now, old sire, you should rest in your room. Your health is more important." Torin said.


    "Stop lecturing me. I''m going to rest now okay?" The old man grumbled. Then he strode towards the door of his room.


    Torin couldn''t help but smirk. The old sire, sure is getting more and more childish.

 Chapter 19 Game

    A man brushing his clothes that were stained with blood stealthily walks towards the Mavi mansion.


    He looked around him cautiously and when he saw that there''s no one around, he continued his way inside.


    He licked his lips and formed a smile. His heart could not stop from beating loudly because of the excitement he felt this morning.


    He remembered what he did a while ago, and his smile couldn''t help but grow wider. His smile could make any girl infatuated. Too bad though, the bloodthirst in his eyes is still apparent and gives off chills to anyone who sees them.


    His friend told him that he''d give him ''gifts'' and so, he hurriedly left the mansion. Upon his arrival at their meeting place, he could no longer hide his excited feelings.


    In front of him, were several tied up children whose noses were filled with snots, and have obviously bawled their eyes out.


    "What do you think of the gifts I prepared this time?" A man wearing golden and flamboyant outfit said to the man who just arrived.


    "Good! Good!" The man repeatedly said good, and his expression couldn''t hide his ecstasy.


    "Hey, I have lots of new tools too. Look at this huge nails! I ordered them from a famous blacksmith in the neighboring town. Looks good right?" The other man boasted.


    "You sure did a good job Lark." The man said while grinning creepily.


    "Of course, who do you think I am? Garth Mavi, it''s playtime! HAHAHA!"


    Soon, the two started their ''game''. One by one, the children started crying loudly like a pig being slaughtered.


    "Nooo!" A kid shouted as he saw his sister being skinned alive.


    "Little boy, it''ll be your time soon. Don''t be in a hurry." Garth laughed maniacally. He enjoy the sound of the children''s cry and pleading. Hearing them gives him intense pleasure.


    Garth Mavi expertly moved the knife, removing a thin layer of skin from the girls face. The girl cried, but no words came out from her mouth. She''s too tired, all she wanted is for everything to just end.


    Half of her face is filled with blood. The outer skin was removed exposing the muscle tissues inside. She could feel every cut of the knife, and her sense of touch was enhanced by the nerves that were broken.


    She felt cold. The wind felt like shards of ice that strikes her body continuosly.


    Not longer, Garth began to skin her body. It''s no longer by smaller pieces, but he is now removing larger part of her skin. He suddenly had an idea and stopped from playing with his knife. He took a candle and lit it. He pointed it towards the girl, and let the melting wax fall into her ''unskinned'' body.The tale has been illicitly lifted; should you spot it on Amazon, report the violation.


    "S-stooop!" She shrieked. Her supposed to be protection, was already removed and the wax directly fell into the layer beneath her skin. She can only shout, while Garth takes pleasure in her pain.


    Not long after, the girl eventually became numb. She appears to be staring at the ceiling. She couldn''t see, or hear anything. All her senses were shut down.


    "Hey little girl, the game isn''t done yet. Don''t disappoint this big bro." Garth teased. But the girl still stayed silent, not minding his words.


    Suddenly she screamed. No longer aware of what''s happening. She just screamed in fear, not knowing where she got the strength to shout. She felt dizzy and confused. In the end she lost consciousness and the shout just now, was like the realization of the upcoming death. Atleast, losing awareness was a great relief for the girl.


    When the girl finally died, her brother immediately puked his guts out. He cried and cried, not willing to accept that his sister died a gruesome death, and that his time is near too.


    "Tsk. Died just like that." Garth frowned, not feeling satisfied. He picked up the skin he removed, then hanged it up on a hook. Then, when he looked at the innards of the girl that were a bit exposed, he took them out. He pulled her intestines and put it beside her skin. After that, he took the heart and the other organs and crushed them with his hands and feet.


    ~


    When he remembered what he just did, he suddenly had the urge to go back and continue their game. He was about to turn around, but immediately stopped on his track. Because when he got near his courtyard, he saw his son still awake.


    Indescribable glint passed through his eyes, as he suddenly pulled up his son.


    "Daddy!" The young boy greeted happily. "I''ve been waiting for you!"


    "Really, Dax?" He smiled. Garth shook his head inwardly. This boy is still his son. He controlled his urges and put down the young Dax.


    He went inside his room to change. When he went out, he saw his wife sitting on a couch, her face was pale. He frowned, but soon smiled and returned to his usual gentle demeanor.


    "Were you waiting for me as well?" He asked.


    The woman bit her mouth. "You.. I know what you''ve been up to! I''ve always disregarded everything you do! But don''t you harm my son!"


    Garth now finally can''t make a smiling face. "What do you mean?"


    "Of all the years we''ve been together, do you think I won''t notice anything? Yet, even knowing them, I didn''t say anything! When I saw you picking up my son, and how your eyes looked at him, I felt mad!!" She cried. Her face is pale, and her lips were trembling. Even though she is really scared of her husband, she still stood up for her child.


    Garth lost his cool and grabbed his wife''s neck. "Shut your mouth, slut!"


    *Sobs sobs* "let go.."


    "Oh? I will." He said that but he didn''t remove his hand. "Since when did you know, my dear Cristina?" His voice is filled with coldness, making Cristina felt her goosebumps all over her body.


    "I-I.." she haven''t finished what she''s going to say, when Garth said, "Better seal your mouth properly, or else.. I will kill you."


    What''s the reason of him hiding his filthy hobby? Isn''t it to protect his image as the perfect son of an aristocrat, and the kind gentleman everyone adores?


    He''d spare the woman for now. Besides, she gave him a son. Take it as her reward for that.


    Feeling greatly dissatisfied, he once again left his house and walked around the vicinity of the mansion.

 Chapter 20 Late Night Snack

    The sky as if shy, covered the stars with clouds, hiding their beauty. The full moon don''t seem to give off much light, making the sight darker than usual.


    The night in Kuehn town now is cold, and the wind blowing pricks the skin like needles. Though, even with the cold weather, it didn''t give any help in making Garth Mavi cool his head off.


    He walked casually around the vicinity of the estate, trying to calm his still heavily pounding heart. After walking for a few more minutes, he stopped when he saw that he unexpectedly arrived at where Torin''s family is living at.


    ''Torin should be with my father right now.'' he thought and felt jealous. He didn''t know just why his father could never feel satisfied about him and yet, could easily accept a stranger.


    He has always been in high pressure. Everyone expects him to become better than his father, and inherit his family''s wealth. He tried every way possible to become strong, he trained day and night to strengthen his magic. But who told him to have water magic? He hated having that kind of magic. Isn''t water for gentle people? It didn''t suit him at all. His father have the earth element, while his mother who died early had water. Why didn''t he inherit his father''s magic? Making him not to feel any good feeling towards his mother.


    He has always believed that water can never be strong. What can it do? Help the opponent take a bath? That is what he have always thought, making his progress stagnant for years.


    As time went by, and he can no longer bear the pressure being given to him, he found a very good friend- Lark.


    Lark introduced new ''games'' to him, letting him have an outlet to relieve his stress. He didn''t know that ''playing'' could actually be so addictive. He continued to act like the proper noble man, while doing certain things in the dark.


    Lost in his thoughts, he entered the gates of the humble home of Torin. He heard silly giggles of a child and a woman. He smiled. Oh, how he wanted to hear them cry.


    The house is very simple. Though it is not extravagant like the other houses in the Mavi estate, it gives off a very warm feeling.


    He knocked on the door and put on his very friendly smile as he waited for them to open it.


    Isla opened the door, and was somehow shocked when she saw the man.If you find this story on Amazon, be aware that it has been stolen. Please report the infringement.


    "Young sire, do you need something?" She asked. ''what brought him here?'' she thought.


    Garth pretended to be shy as he said, "I remembered that you invited me for some snacks this morning. Is the offer still standing?"


    ''He would go here- late night, just for some snacks?'' Isla thought skeptically.


    "Of course, come inside sir." She said politely, and gestured for him to enter inside.


    "Where''s Torin?" Garth asked as he measured the house.


    "He''s still on his guard duties." Isla answered.


    "Please wait for a while Young sire, I''ll prepare the food for you." Then she turned around and headed for the kitchen.


    Garth looked around him, and found the little girl sitting on a sofa, behaving herself. He smiled and approached her.


    Raya frowned and tried to distance herself away from him, but when she remembered what his father said to her this morning, she stayed.


    "How''s your day little Raya?" He asked. Not appearing to mind her obvious actions.


    "fine." She said and pouted.


    "Then, is little Raya a good girl?" Garth once again asked.


    "Ahuh" Raya nodded her head.


    "Then will you follow my orders?" He smiled.


    Raya thought for a while before bobbing her head again.


    "Good girl!" He patted her head, then continued. "You just have to stay here, and be quiet okay?"


    "Okay." She said.


    Garth then stood up, and followed Isla to the kitchen.


    He leaned his body to the door frame, and put his arms crossed. He looks at the beautiful woman busily preparing food for him, and felt even more jealous to Torin.


    ''Such fine woman actually belonged to someone else.'' he silently thought.


    Isla moves around the kitchen, not discovering his presence. She continued to make food, and when she''s done, she turned around and was shocked. She almost dropped the food in her hands.


    "Why are you here Young sire?" She asked, patting her chest, feeling very uncomfortable for being stared at.


    "I felt bored, and walked around the house. I hope you don''t mind." He said gently.


    "No. Not at all. I''m almost done here, I''ll finish soon." Isla said hurriedly.


    "Then I''ll wait for you." He smiled, and stayed in the same position.


    "O-okay." Isla could just nod her head. She turned around to get the tray when suddenly, two hands wrapped around her. One was placed in her mouth, while the other one tightly grabbed her waist.


    "Mmph!" Isla instantly became fearful. She tried to remove his hands, but her actions were futile.


    Garth snickered and said. "You should be quiet okay? I won''t do anything to you."


    Even after hearing that, Isla didn''t calm down but was more worried instead.